Small Things Foster a Sense of Community

                             Small Things Foster a Sense of Community

By Albert B. Kelly

As we cross over the July 4^th holiday, we’re basically at the mid-point of the year and while I may be alone in this thought; it sure seems like the time has passed quickly. Speaking of July 4^th, I want to publically acknowledge and thank Hopewell Township, Fralinger Engineering, Environmental resolutions, Inc., the Law Office of Bertram & Haag, Susquehanna Bank, and Kathleen Gaskill, Esq, with a special thanks to main sponsor TD Bank.

I want to acknowledge them publically because without their support and generosity, the families, and especially the children, in the greater Bridgeton area would not have been able to end their day with fireworks in City Park. It was as a result of these donors that we were able to provide a fireworks program this year- and in years past for that matter.

It may seem like a small thing or even inconsequential given the broader challenges communities face these days, but two things remain true. The municipal budget simply has little if any room for programs and activities such as fireworks and if the 4^th of July ended without anything, it would be conspicuous by its absence…and people would say as much.

The second thing that remains true is that programs and activities like this are part of nurturing community and sustaining some sense of community engagement. It’s hard for any number of reasons but in an age where we’re all tethered to some device, coming together outdoors to enjoy something is no small thing. Those who made it possible have my sincere thanks and you might consider offering yours if and when you see them.

As I said though, the summer feels like its passing quickly and soon enough we’ll be talking about back-to-school sales and the start of football season. But not just yet; before we get there, we still have a chunk of summer to enjoy and there are a few things that might just help.

First, if you’ve got a young person, between the ages of 12 and 18, looking a little bored around the house, perhaps tethered to their own digital device or seemingly allergic to such horrors as fresh air and sunshine; you might take them down to the Bridgeton Public Library and sign them up for the July 27^th tubing trip down the Egg Harbor River.

The trip is free and the bus will be leaving the library at 9:00am and returning at approximately 3:30pm. The tubing folks will supply life vests and while one parent is welcome to accompany their teen, it is not required, but parents or guardians do need to sign a permission slip in person at the library.

If tubing isn’t your thing, then I hope you will check out the Greater Bridgeton Area SportsFest which will take place in City Park on July 18^th. The day will get started at 10:00am and run through until 8:00pm.

While admission is free, there will be registration for certain events. Your skill level or fitness level doesn’t matter as there will be something for everyone and every age group. Just a few of the things taking place at the SportsFest will include a sponsored 5K walk/run, line Dancing, a martial arts demonstration, a basketball tournament, jump rope competition, kickball, hula hoops, and a punt/pass/kick contest.

A full list of activities, along with times and locations, will be posted throughout Alden Field, the Midget Football, and the Cinderella Field on day of the event. It should be noted that the 5K walk/run is being sponsored by “No More”, which is affiliated with the NJ Coalition for Battered Women. The proceeds are certainly for a worthy cause.

If you are interested in participating in the “No More” event, you can register online at www.pretzelcitysports.com. Registration is $45 for adults and $25 for children under 12. You can also reach out via email to bridgetonsportsfest@gmail.com for additional information.

The SportsFest got off to a great start last summer and we’re looking forward to a better event this year. For me, it accomplishes several objectives. It helps to promote physical activity and exercise. We need to be more active and I include myself first and foremost.

Beyond that, the SportsFest promotes community fellowship in a fun way. It’s easy to be apart and remain separate, but even to come out for an hour; we get to meet others in the community and make new friends and in the life of any city, that’s a currency we can always use.