Residents enjoy fellowship, food and fun at Midtown Kingston block party – Daily Freeman

KINGSTON, N.Y. — Residents up and down Van Buren Street in Midtown came together and enjoyed music, food and fellowship Saturday during the Spreading the Love Community Block Club Party.

Kids played on a bouncy house, while a DJ spun hit songs and neighbors served up everything from traditional hots dogs and hamburgers to Jamaican food prepared by Anthony Harding Jr. and Anthony “DJ King Tony” Harding Sr. of Linden’s Kitchen, a new Jamaican restaurant at 71 Furnace St.

Eddie Mollette, who owns a home on the street, said he was happy to see the community out together as he prepared a cookout and offered beverages to those in the neighborhood.

He said he was happy to see Kingston Police Department officers on bikes.

“I hope it stays a nice day,” he said. “It’s a great day, especially for the kids.”

Cheyenne Newton of the Ulster County Foster Care Program brought along her son, Scott Jackson, 9, who splashed about in a sprinkler set up on the street before moving down towards the bouncy house

“We’re getting out the word about the program and seeking out people who might be able to help,” she said. “It turned out perfect and there’s no rain, so we’re happy.”

Michelle Cash of Kingston, was offering up cotton candy and shaved ice. She said likes the vibe of these kinds of events.

“It’s great for everyone from the children to the parents to get together,” Cash said. “I like the message, it’s about spreading love and that’s what it’s all about. We need more of this and less of the other nonsense.”

Near the Broadway end of the street, the YMCA of Kingston and Ulster County hosted a bike repair clinic that also featured helmets for kids.

Tom Polk, The YMCA’s bicycle program manager, said as of early Saturday afternoon a couple of people so far have stopped by for helmets for their kids.