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JACKSON DAY HEATS UP WITH FUN
By Keith Hagarty
 | | --Photos By Keith Hagarty The only thing hotter than the temperatures last Saturday was the excitement generated by township residents who turned out by the thousands to cheer on the parade and enjoy the bounty of festivities and entertainment at the 30th annual Jackson Day at John F. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Park. |
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With a cold bottle of water in hand and her three-year old daughter, Rachelle, mesmerized by the colorful, fluffy stuffed animals ready to be won at almost every game booth, Jenna McAfee and her family had a wonderful time at the 30th annual Jackson Day.
"We're having a great time," said McAfee. "We haven't won anything for her (Rachelle) yet, but we're going to keep on trying. I guess it just wouldn't be a fun, family outing unless you keep plunking down over $50 on games for a $5 stuffed animal … but that's what makes it a tradition."
With temperatures climbing into the 90s, the summer made its last grasp on Saturday as thousands of residents made their way to a packed John F. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Park for the township's post-Labor Day annual festival. The event kicked off at noon with opening ceremonies and a grand parade starting at Lucy N. Holman Elementary School on Manhattan Street, eventually working its way to the park to get the celebration started.
The parade included members from various facets of the community marching and riding upon floats, including police, firefighters, emergency first aid responders, youth sports clubs, high school bands, township officials, civic organizations and Looney Tunes characters from Six Flags Great Adventure.
Taking in the festivities with his family, Councilman Scott Martin raved about the large turnout of residents and local businesses, as well as the positive community spirit generated throughout the day.
"I was very impressed with how many exhibitors we had," said Martin. "Jackson Day provides non-profit groups and local businesses an opportunity to get in front of the community so everyone can learn about their organization or business. It also provides a great way for the non-profit and school organizations to raise money for their respective causes."
While the money raised for local non-profit groups, and the recently destroyed food pantry are a key component of the day, Martin admitted his daughters had other thoughts on their mind.
"My daughters particularly enjoyed the spin art, sand art and getting their nails done," he said.
With the theme of "Disco Inferno," Jackson Day featured a flurry of entertainment and music, including performances from two 1970s nostalgia bands, Saturday Night Fever and Bandstand, DJ Beats Per Minute spinning tunes, and local entertainment groups hitting the stage with various acts and skits all day and night.
And of course, what Jackson Day would be complete without a firework display to cap off the celebration?
Jackson Day turned out to be a incredibly successful event, said Councilwoman Emily Ingram.
"It was a pleasure to see so many residents coming together and enjoying the day," said Ingram. "The participation of the various organizations was a big part in this fun filled day. Everyone loved the food, music and fireworks."
With so many attendees flocking to the park, Ingram expressed her appreciation and gratitude to all those who attended, and everyone who helped make the day a success.
"I want to personally thank all the Jackson Township employees and volunteers that have helped in making Jackson Day a safe and enjoyable event," she said.
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