From 1 to 4 p.m., the focus was on children at Library Park, where Police Benevolent Association Local 19 provided fun activities including a rock climb. Public Works Superintendent John Louise manned the grill, PBA President Sgt. Andre Crawford and others passed out ice cream bars, and children lined up for cotton candy and popcorn. Music was provided by George Moore of Universal Sounds in Plainfield.
Crawford explained that because the city did not hold the annual bike rodeo, the union stepped in "to give back to the kids."
"It just builds bridges," Crawford said.
Seeing law enforcement in a friendly light is part of a broad effort to deter city youth from gangs and other negative activity. The bike rodeo served the purpose in past years, but the city's acceptance of state aid for the 2010 fiscal year came with strict limits on spending public funds for food or festivities.
Using his sound system, Moore took a break from music and asked adults to "step back and let the children be served - this is their day."
Parent Diane Pender brought her sons Dion and Divon and daughters Diamond and Diana to the event.
"It's a lot of fun. We come every year," she said unaware that the police were substituting an all-volunteer event for the traditional bike rodeo.
The Pemberton Area Block Association's tent featured an array of healthy snacks and information provided by Terry Jonas, a nutrition assistant from The University Hospital.
"It's just a junior health fair," PABA President Indira Brown said.
Sharree Lilly looked on as her daughter, Jaliah, 6, had a blue butterfly painted on her cheek. She said she learned about the event from the city web site.
Later, from 4 to 9 p.m., the 100 block of Church Street was blocked off by fire engines as members of the Fire Officers Association hosted a barbeque party. The menu included grilled chicken, fish, hot dogs, hamburgers, turkey burgers, baked beans, string beans, potato salad and more. Battalion Chief Henry Robinson III was one of the chefs and FOA President Lt. Bernard Blake monitored a large grill.
"We're giving back to the community," Blake said, noting many people are having "hard times."
Blake was gratified by the turnout. A diverse crowd lined up at the food tent, then took seats at a dozen or so tables set up on the street. Mayor Sharon Robinson-Briggs, Corporation Counsel Dan Williamson and Police Director Martin Hellwig were among city officials in attendance. Many city staffers helped out and Hugo's restaurant provided the grills.
Hugs and kisses were exchanged as people ran into friends in the large crowd. Members of the Plainfield Vulcan Pioneers were on hand, including Vice President Victor "Klose" Dakers, who explained that the fraternal group is the successor to C.O.F.F.E.E., which for many years supported firefighters in attaining higher rank and also held popular community events. (As I recall, the acronym stands for "Community Oriented Firefighters for Eminent Equality.")
Slide shows are posted below.
--Bernice
This was a very dud of an affair. I live a few blocks away and except for the noise of the music, you had to be in the park to notice anything was going on. There was a climbing wall and what looked like two moon walk attractions. Not much else. The food smelled good cooking. I wonder if Sharon arranged this.
ReplyDeleteWhat ever happened to the Plainfield Art Festival? I know since Sharon became mayor the event has rapidly gone down hill. Last year was poorly attended by artists and admirers alike. At one time, not that far away, there we no empty spots for artists and most of it was art, not people hawking cheap junk from China. We have fallen so far in this city. I miss the old days.
Now Bob, it was for kids, not adults and it was put on by the Police Benevolent Association as I mentioned in the blog post. Too bad you didn't get over to the FOA event on Church Street, which was more for adults. From what I saw, both were appreciated by those who attended.
ReplyDeleteThe Art Festival will be held in September. I believe Dave Wynn is in charge.
It's truly sad when negative people like Bob can find fault in simple neighborly giving. The article states that both events were sponsored and funded entirely by city employees, yet Bob goes out of his way to find some conspiracy of purpose. Maybe folks just sought to have a good time on a beautiful day in our Queen City. By the way, Council Mapp and his lovely wife stopped by the Church St. event so I guess he must be in colusion with all the ill will hey Bob?
ReplyDeleteTo Anonymous 6:08 p.m., I am not posting your comment. Saturday's events were enjoyed by a lot of people and I don't see why I should allow negative personal comments on the blog.
ReplyDeleteYou can always trash folks on other forums, I'm just not having it.
I have never tyrashed anyone, I only call it as I see it. . . truthfully and honestly, unlike some others who have the audacity to call themselves journalists! Say hi to Mark!
ReplyDelete