The annual Locust Grove event is among the township’s yearly neighborhood barbecues, and the largest, according to the mayor.
The township drew more than 300 people to its annual block party in the Locust Grove neighborhood on July 12.
A section of the neighborhood’s main street, Locust Grove Boulevard, was closed for the event, which featured music from a DJ, a balloon artist for kids and other activities. Food came from Mission BBQ and the township provided beverages to cope with the hot day.
“This is one of our bigger ones since it’s in Locust Grove, one of our largest neighborhoods in Deptford,” said Mayor Paul Medany. “We were very pleased with the turnout. As far as we know, it was a success.”
He and council members were on hand to chat with residents on a personal level.
“Residents get the chance to meet the administration at these events,” Medany said. “A chance they might not have gotten otherwise.”
Police Chief Joseph Smith and some officers also attended, with Smith playing games of Connect 4 with residents. The department helped advertise the block party by posting a video on social media.
The Locust Grove event is among several the township is hosting throughout the summer, including barbecues that have already taken place in Blackwood Terrace and Lakebridge. Two 55-plus barbecues will be hosted next month: Thursday, Aug. 7, at 5:30 p.m. in the Heritage neighborhood, and Thursday, Aug. 14 at the same time in the Bridlewood neighborhood.
“We try to hit all of the sections of town,” said Medany. “It’s a great way for people to come out, spend time with each other and get everybody involved in the community.”
