With the morning chill burning off and very cooperating weather, the Church Avenue Street Fair drew families and singles, bargain hunters, hungry Brooklynites, and strollers, claiming finally, a walk in the sun.
The requisite roasted corn and cotton candy wasn’t all on the menu. Local restaurants pulled booths into the street and offered $1 samples for a chance to try doubles, spring rolls, or samosas–Jamaican, Thai or Indian appetizers–, along with on-the-go food servings. In outdoor seating, others ordered full dishes off restaurant menus.
At the Coney Island Ave. end of the avenue and highlighting clothes, accessories, and styling from Church Avenue businesses, “Island Style” led the staged events with a show of adult and children’s fashions. Low low keyed, comedian Vlad Calixte entertained the crowd between the sets of “island breeze,” children’s dress up, evening couture and bridal fashions. Continuing through the afternoon, DJ Wizzy rocked the street with island sounds.
Local service organizations including CAMBA, Diaspora Services and the Children’s Corner early childhood center provided information tables. The Fire Department of NY chatted up kids, at their table, and gave out plastic fire helmets. Vendor rides lured children.
Block party sponsor Church Avenue BID (Business Improvement District) enhances the district for businesses, residents, and shoppers and promotes the neighborhood as a shopping destination. The awning program initiated by the BID was mentioned by one of the booth vendors as a program improving the appearance of both long-time and new Church Ave. businesses.
The Island Style fashion show organizer, Guyanese-born Ronnette A. Cox, comes to the Church Ave. BID after a successful 10-year career in the fashion industry. Switching gears a bit, she is dedicating her time and efforts into learning how to support and engage her community. Next event planned: the June 21 Church Avenue Caribbean Music Festival.
