North Bergen officials welcomed about 1,000 residents to the 10th annual Pool Party on Friday, Aug. 26, this year with a “Mardi Gras” theme. Attendees came to eat, swim, gamble, and dance from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
In keeping with this year’s theme, a New Orleans jazz band played alongside colorful decorations created by high school art teacher Steve Defendini and the Recreation staff. The pool complex was packed with families for the whole night.
Kids played on bounce houses, water slides, and trampolines, while their parents played casino card games. Winners at the tables won prizes like a TV donated by P.C. Richard & Son or a month of free training at a gym, a pool membership, a 10-pack of guest passes, plus an assortment of gift baskets.
“The pool party tradition started in the old pool, but this location is better with the family, and we still have the casino,” Mayor Nicholas Sacco said.
“I didn’t go to Wildwood this weekend, because I wanted to come to this pool party instead.” — Barbara M.
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Resident Ricardo Felix came with his three kids. “They look forward to this every year,” he said.
Michelle Simon came with her son, member of the swim team, and “North Bergen Pool Mascot” John, 13. “Last year we were here, but they ran out of food,” Michelle said. “This time I’m going to try the casino.”
This year over 20 vendors donated free food to the event while the North Bergen High School football team helped serve the food.
“I didn’t go to Wildwood this weekend because I wanted to come to this pool party instead,” said resident Barbara M., who is also a member of the pool. “We like to come here for the kids.” Her daughter Arianna, 4, went on a waterslide and bounce house while her mom talked to her friend, Tatiana L.
Tatiana said, “The kids look forward to it every year.”
Assistant Pool Manager Frank Piazza helped plan the event and donated gift baskets for casino winners. “It was a long process,” he said, “but we had help from great vendors in North Bergen who donated food and trucks. The staff pulled everything together with low cost.”
Piazza also thanked Commissioner Hugo Cabrera and Mayor Sacco for throwing the party for the last 10 years. “Every year it gets better and better,” he said. “Without them this whole thing doesn’t come together. They do so much for the residents, and especially kids.”
“In my opinion our Recreation Department is the best in New Jersey,” Piazza added.