SOUTH MARSHALL STREET WAS JUMPING!
HARTFORD - The Salvation Army Marshall House Family Shelter held their 7th Annual South Marshall Street Block Party on Friday evening September 11th. Approximately 200 friends, neighbors and guests braved the rain and gathered in front of the shelter
to participate in a fun evening. The party is sponsored by The Salvation Army, the Greater Hartford Arts Council and many neighborhood groups and businesses.
South Marshall Street was rock'en! Some great carnival games, a ministries tent and table, Phil - "the balloon man" and his sculptures, and local businesses with information, filled the street. Greater Hartford Area Coordinator for the Salvation Army and master of ceremonies Major Doug Hart Terry, kept the crowd happy, especially the kids. He was in charge of the raffle for the bikes that were donated by Arthur Jacques, a Boy Scout from Tolland, The Little Angels program and the Bicycling Enthusiams. By the end of the evening it seemed like every kid on Marshall Street had a new bike! Another big hit was Hartford Police Officer Jim Rios and "Handsome." That would be the ten year old quarter horse that was patted by almost every kid and many adults at the party.
And what's a block party without food? The meal was tasty! Neighbors went through the lines and filled their plates with goodies. Carvel Ice Cream donated the desserts and everyone left with a full stomach.
"The event was founded to build bridges of trust and understanding among the neighborhood and our staff and residents," stated Major Hart. "We want the community to know that we are partners in keeping our neighborhood safe and a better place for families and children." In spite of the weather, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and there is already talk about making next year's event even better.