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BLOCK PARTY A SUCCESS — Those attending Wednesday’s Community Block Party at the Sycamore Youth Center included, from left, Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center; entertainers Jasmine Wooden, Lawrence Lewis, Jeff Tyler and Gene Shelby; and Rebekah Cohen Morris, executive director of the AIM Women’s Center. — Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — The Sycamore Youth Center served as Wednesday’s site for a first-time community Summer Block Party between two local nonprofit organizations.

Despite the weather forcing the event to be held indoors, approximately 300 community members attended, according to Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center.

Bauman explained this was the first time the center joined forces with the AIM Women’s Center, gathering for an evening of fellowship, entertainment and a variety of foods.

With the collaboration of both centers, officials were able to make the necessary adjustments to hold the event indoors. The block party was originally supposed to be held outdoors at the AIM Women’s Center, according to its executive director, Rebekah Cohen Morris. Bauman noted the party was a “resounding success,” with participants consuming about 400 hot dogs and 150 hamburgers.

Morris and Bauman made a great team, according to attendee Cookie West.

West stated the collaboration between the centers created “a picture of heaven” in her reflection of the evening.

The event not only showcased the community’s spirit, but highlighted the generosity and teamwork that made it possible.

Activities planned included children receiving free face painting by the Sycamore Corps service group and a foam party provided by Screwy Louie’s Party Rentals.

Hip-hop artists JR Lawrence Lewis of Steubenville, CBE 180 of Weirton and MoTruth of Pittsburgh performed, as well as Jasmine Wooden of Steubenville, who is a three-time Valley’s Got Talent winner. She auditioned in the miscellaneous category of the competition in the area of ​​mime performances.

Bauman stated those in attendance enjoyed the performances and the evening “was filled with exceptional entertainment.”

The organizations will be hosting another block party in October. The duo said they hope to hold four block parties every year, one for each season.

“This is a fantastic way to engage with the community and show our dedication to enriching the lives of our youth and families,” Bauman concluded.

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