Inaugural Block Party In Sandy Hook Draws A Crowd

By Susan Coney

Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue had its first block party on Saturday, July 30. Karin Halstead, one of the organizers, said that the firehouse was trying out the idea of a block party to see what type of a response they received. The ever-popular Sandy Hook Lobster Fest, held annually at the Sandy Hook Firehouse, is always jam-packed with enthusiastic seafood lovers; and while the turnout for the block party did not reach the epic proportions of the Lobster Fest, the crowd that did show up had a wonderful time.

Ms Halstead said the cost of tickets were $20 for adults and $10 for children, which included all-you-can-eat of traditional picnic fixings such as hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, corn on the cob, and watermelon. Coffee and soda were included and the evening was advertised as a bring-your-own-bottle event to help keep costs down.

The party ran from 7 to 11 pm and the crowd was entertained by Keltic Kick, which played a fabulous array of classic hits and Irish favorites. Ms Halstead commented that more than 100 people attended the function and that everyone loved the band, who ended up playing an additional 20 minutes due to the crowds enthusiasm. Ms Halstead said, “Everybody loved the band. There were no complaints and everyone dance up a storm.”

Shari Burton, who volunteered to sell tickets, stood behind a ticket counter constructed from the front end of a salvaged fire truck. Ms Burton greeted people as they arrived and later told The Bee that the block party was very well received. “It was a really good turn out. The band was great and it was a wonderful evening,” she said.