Although D.J. Al Anton’s encouraging Bonkers The Clown to “raise the roof” at Pershing Field two weeks ago might have seemed like a scene from the circus, it was merely a small episode in one of Jersey City’s most recent block parties.
On June 19, residents of the Heights met at the park to dance, play games, and, most importantly, socialize with their neighbors. For the eighth consecutive year, Jersey City celebrated its sense of community by throwing a block party in each ward. Lelayna Hernandez, an event worker for the Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs, has taken an active role in planning these parties because of their commitment “to bring unity into the community.”
Maryanne Kelleher, the acting director for the department, agreed. For her, the parties represent a unique way that the government gives back to the community itself. “There is no bureaucratic red tape involved,” she said.
At each of the six block parties, residents were treated to an event that included D.J. Al Anton spinning records, two inflatable rides for children, face-painting, balloon animals sculpted by Bonkers The Clown, and a hearty meal of hot dogs, potato chips, and a soft drink. Everything at the event was free.
According to Hernandez, the tradition has gained so much popularity in the past few years that the department receives calls from residents in May inquiring how much longer it will be until the parties begin. As a result, the department expected to have approximately 1,000 residents attend each party this year.
“It’s nice because many families might not be able to afford the summertime carnivals and amusement parks in the surrounding area,” Kelleher said. She added that it’s also a way for residents to enjoy community-sponsored events without traveling far.
Residents speak out
For Ann Landi, an eight-year resident of the Heights, the event’s convenience has played a major role in her attendance at the block party for the past two years. Although she does not usually attend city-sponsored events, Landi can’t resist bringing her 8-year-old son Michael to the event for an evening of fun and games. “This is so close,” Landi said. “It’s just so easy for me to get to.”
But while parents and children spent the early evening in a relaxing environment, a staff of 25 workers hustled around the park inflating balloons, handing out prizes, and distributing food. “We never have enough people,” Special Events Coordinator Joan Moore said. “It’s unbelievable how we do it, but it’s fun.” Taking a short rest to watch the final moments of a musical chairs competition, Moore commented, “Aren’t they just adorable? Just seeing those smiling faces makes it all worth it.”
In addition to the children, smiles were seen on many of the parents. Fareed Muhammad smiled at his 4-year-old identical twins, Nadir and Waheed, who had their faces painted to look like identical tigers. Muhammad, a three-year resident of the Brunswick Towers, said he saw the block parties as a positive environment for families.
“It lends itself to community development,” Muhammad said. “People are drawn here regularly for one reason: to have a good time. It takes children out of a mundane environment and puts them in a safe and exciting one.”
Perhaps the best example of community involvement was Chrissy Steed, 18, a local events worker and recent high school graduate who took some time off from inflating balloons to entertain the crowd with her dance group, The Images.
Although The Images are a professional dance group, Steed donated the group’s time to the block parties. While two of her siblings joining her in a choreographed dance to Destiny Child’s “Survivor,” two of her other siblings spent the evening painting images on the faces and arms of children.
Commenting on her family’s active role, Steed said she hopes that “people will see how we stick together, and be sure to bring their whole family to these events in the future.”