'Just a Party' Draws Thousands

Thousands came out on a cool late summer night to enjoy a variety of foods and activities at the seventh annual "Just a Party" held at the Walgreens shopping plaza on Franklin Avenue last Friday.

The evening included outdoor dining and dancing and musical entertainment by the bands Jersey Sound, Beauty and the Grease along with other entertainment, like the Batmobile and Batman posing with kids of all ages.

Carol Smith of the Belleville Lions Club said the event allows the club to share free information about programs that help keep children safe. “It’s a great night,” she said at the event.

Lauren O’Connell of Bloomfield took photos with her friends.

“I’m here to support Michael’s Roscommon House,” O’Connell said of the popular Joralemon Street pub.

Belleville High School freshman Joseph Murante won some free shirts at a ring toss stand, and said, “I’ve had a good time here every year.”

Local restaurants and food vendors offered a variety of food items such as zeppoles, sausage and peppers, pizza, and steak sandwiches, and, children enjoyed ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, face painting, tattoos, rides and games including a climbing wall, all free of charge.

 The idea was first developed by Councilwoman Marie Burke, who soon gained the support of Mayor Raymond Kimble, the rest of the council along with state Assemblyman Ralph Caputo.