August 23, 2016 – South Jamaica, NY – The masses came out to Baisley Pond Park this past weekend to celebrate the end of summer at the annual ‘District 28 Day’ fair, followed by the Southern Queens ‘Classic’ Hip-Hop & Reggae (“Classic”) and Gospel Fest concerts hosted by Council Member Ruben Wills (D-South Jamaica) and the Department of Parks and Recreation (“NYC Parks”).
Saturday, the residents of the 28th Council District enjoyed a slew of familiar yet popular attractions like inflatables, face painting and cotton candy, as well as a free basketball clinic and bike-riding lesson offered by NYC Parks. Later that day, the leaders of Fathers Alive In The Hood (F.A.I.T.H.), LIFE Camp, X Ryders, Man Up, Inc. and the King of Kings Foundation were honored with citations for their work in the community to prevent gun and gang violence.
Reggae artist Tony Matterhorn and Power 105.1 FM’s DJ Norie warmed the crowd up prior to the start of ‘Classic’ with a mix of old and contemporary hits, then original Hip-Hop duo Nice & Smooth along with Teddy Tedd and DJ Special K took the stage, followed by Biz Markie and DJ Cool V to perform a medley of late-80s early-90s hits.
Gospel Fest brought the faithful back to the park Sunday afternoon. Hosted by 107.5 WBLS’ Liz Black, the concert’s performers, including James Dale, Dave James, Natalie Evans and the Kingdom Alliance Band, and others, got the crowd on their feet to make a joyful noise despite some stormy weather.
“This weekend was truly incredible,” said Councilman Wills. “On Saturday, people called me all day to ask if the ‘Classic’ Hip-Hop & Reggae concert would be cancelled because the rainfall in their area was so bad, but we were blessed to have good weather for the event. The rain finally came to Baisley on Sunday, but it didn’t stop the community from giving praise because of the fine job NYC Parks did in providing tents to help keep them dry. I want to thank the Department of Parks and Recreation and the NYPD for their flawless coordination. My special thanks to Commissioner Bratton, Assistant Chief David Barrere and the commanding officers of the 101st, 102nd, 103rd, 105th, 106th and 113th Precincts. I also want to thank all of the concert hosts and performers for their participation. Lastly, I want to thank my staff for their tireless work in service to the District. Each of these events was a success due to everyone’s combined effort.”
