BEACHWOOD – The weather was perfect as scores of people recently celebrated Beachwood Community Day at Birch and Surf Park.
The event was bigger than last year, which was the first ever event. There were more tents set up, where vendors sold items like dog treats and homemade soap. Community groups like the Ocean County Historical Society and the borough’s Shade Tree Commission also set up areas.
Joetta Clark Diggs, four-time Olympic Athlete and track and field champion (1988, 1992, 1996, 2000), made a guest appearance. She is the spokeswoman for the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign, and she led kids in exercises on the ball field.
A bicycle stunt show, costumed characters, and face painting added to the entertainment. There was also a petting zoo and pony rides – all of which were free.
Personnel and vehicles from fire, police, and first aid departments were on hand as well. Child seat safety inspections were given.
Food was sold by local organizations like the Knights of Columbus and Cub Scouts Troop 76, as well as food trucks Caribbean Soul and Mister Softee. After getting food, people could sit at picnic tables set up in front of the county’s portable stage and listen to live music.
An event like this takes a lot of people working together, Mayor Ron Roma said. If it wasn’t for the hard work of the recreation department, fire and first aid squads, police, public works, Borough Council, and countless volunteers, this event would be much smaller.
The day continued the borough’s ongoing 100th anniversary celebration, since Beachwood was incorporated in 1917. There was a map on display that showed every street in town. Residents were encouraged to sign their names where their homes are.
The Centennial Fountain was installed in Mayo Park earlier this year. The next centennial community event is the annual bonfire on October 28.
