It all started about 4 p.m., when trays of beans arrived, napkins, plates, forks, and condiments were in place. Also, cold dogs were there which, when put on the grill, became hot dogs. Also, there were hamburgers, potato chips, watermelon, and bottled water put in ice. It actually started a week earlier when last Thursday, employees from the Department of Public Works (DPW) stained the teak-wood outdoor furniture for the event.
At about 5 p.m., the residents started to arrive with senior citizens, children and parents, and others enjoying the picnic. Carl Pluchino grilled the hot dogs and hamburgers, which were all paid for by the Roselle Park Senior Association.
As the Roselle Park Middle School (RPMS) parking lot started to fill with police cars and police officer, children put on police gear and parents took pictures. The police department was well represented with information on safety along with the mango, cherry, and lemon ices.
The volunteer Roselle Park Fire Department was there with its members in full gear, waiting for the helicopter to arrive. Also on hand was the Roselle Park First Aid Squad.
At about 7:30 p.m., the Atlantic Air One Medivac helicopter did arrive. As it descended, the rotorblades whipped up biting clouds of dust. The it settled, residents saw two (2) murses get out of the helicopter, followed by the pilot. It was then that the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) officer allowed the residents on the field when it was safe to talk to crew of Atlantic Air One. Children were allowed to sit in the helicopter and proud parents took pictures.
Among the other attractions were a DJ boot and temporary tattoo painting booth. A huge plastic wall climb & slide was most popular with the children.
All in all the residents enjoyed the Roselle Park National Night Out and townwide picnic, making it a great success. The one notably missing event was the featured Bocci Ball Tournament which did not take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
A collection of photographs taken at the events can be viewed at [In Frame] (link)