ST. PAUL – The St. Paul Lions Park was filled with fun activities on Aug. 18 with the annual Rock the Block. Music echoed throughout the four-hour event as attendees shopped downtown and enjoyed food from vendors while the children played.
Penny Fox, Manager at the Community Futures, said this year’s event “was a return to a more normal Rock the Block” following the easing of pandemic restrictions. But, this year’s event had limited volunteers, leaving no opportunity to plan for a street dance – a usual highlight.
There were also less businesses who participated compared to the previous Rock the Blocks, and Fox said the heat and labour shortages to businesses may have been a contributing factor. “There were some great sales to be had from those businesses that did move outside for the afternoon,” added Fox.
“Overall, we had a fun day at Rock the Block. We saw an average number of people come and participate,” she said, adding entertainment by the likes of Ky Babin and David Lamothe did a “fantastic” job entertaining people on stage at the park.
Other activities included children doing art and glitter tattoos. Fox also said people remarked on the variety of “fabulous” food available at the event.
“Juice and cookies from Twisted Fork were a hit and the food from the [Stems and Flappers] food truck was a great treat,” she said. “The ice cream served by the St. Paul Journal and doughnuts by the Boys and Girls Club were also appreciated by those walking on the sidewalk.”
Fox said St. Paul’s newest business, The Nest, also opened its doors to let people see “the work they are doing to prepare for their opening.” The main street business will soon be open as a café and boutique.
People also signed a Canadian Flag that is being sent to Ukraine. Fox said the next round of community raised donations will be sent to Ukraine alongside the flag.
The St. Paul Champions for Change, a local community organization, was among the organizers of the event. Judith Hess, secretary and treasurer for the organization said, “It was awesome to see people and kids outside, smiles on their faces and enjoying our town.”
