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Page 20, The Brick Times, October 23, 2021
Parade:
Continued From Page 1 of the Rancho Folclorico Danca na Eira based in Newark brought their own traditional dance style to the event. They perform traditional Portuguese folklore dance and have been a part of the parade in the past. They celebrated with members of the Ocean County Parade Committee following the parade at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church parish hall building on Grant Avenue. Parade Committee Chairman Mike Blandina was pleased with this year’s parade noting that the weather is out of everyone’s hands. “We got a good turnout, more than I expected we’d get for a week later but we did it.” Gerand LaPenna joined many of his fellow Lacey Italian-American Club members at the parish hall as they made the arrangements for the after-parade meal that took place at the parish hall. “We’ve been doing this for several years. A lot of activity happens here in this building during the parade and the Italian Heritage weekend.” Cruising by in a classic purple Mustang were members of the Central Jersey Italian American Club of Jackson. Brick Unico, another Italian-American organization, sponsored a band. Other participants included the Union Church of
Seaside Park, local Cub Scouts and the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Squadron based in Lakehurst. Forty members of Falun Dafa came out to march in the parade for the first time dressed in bright yellow caps, shirts and jackets. The organization traveled from New York to provide some Chinese culture to the event. Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is a spiritual practice that millions of people have made a part of their lives. It is rooted in Buddhist tradition and consists of self-improvement through the study of teachings and gentle exercises and meditation. Group coordinator Bridget Lee said her organization formed in 1992. “China is a communist country; we have no freedom. We want to share the truthful compassionate quality of our society.” She added, “we are very happy to be here. Some are playing the traditional Chinese drum and 20 are doing the exercise to share with the American people. During these COVID-19 times we want to see more strong health and hope.” Just like Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, this year’s parade concluded with a float featuring Santa Claus and his sleigh featuring reindeer and some smiling elves.
Second Annual Boo-Drive Thru At Ocean County Mall
TOMS RIVER – B98.5 FM is hosting the second annual Boo Drive -Thru at the Ocean County Mall in Toms River on October 29 at 4 p.m. Boo Drive-Thru in partnership with the Ocean County Mall and Stop & Shop is a safe and spooky way for families to dress up in costume, decorate their cars, and trick or treat in the comfort of their own vehicles. Located in the mall parking lot, this event is free to all ages. Attendees will be greeted by the B98.5 on-air staff in costume and will experience festive Halloween displays as they drive through.
While supplies last, every car will receive a B98.5 trick or treat bag filled with candy, station merchandise, and the chance to win great prizes including concert tickets and more. Attendees are encouraged to get creative and decorate their vehicles as they will be entered into B98.5’s best decorated vehicle contest. Three lucky winners with the best Halloween themed vehicle will drive away with cold hard cash. For more information about Boo Drive-Thru and its partners, email info@PressCommRadio.com.
