A Successful Trunk-or-Treat
By Rone Anderson
A good time was had by all at the 5th annual largest Trunk or Treat in the Rockaways on Tuesday, October 30, at the Papa John’s lot on Beach 49th Street. The organizers, Odessa’s Event Planning and Mama Roni (mother of Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson), have been conducting this annual event since COVID, and every year it is growing.
The community comes out and it gives everyone a chance to just have some fun and get some resources and info. It also brings awareness to small growing businesses. Students “Brooke” Anderson, Tyre aka “Tiger” and Jamie Smith from Channel View High School volunteered after school. There was a dance off, spooky games and prizes, entertainment by Grandma Zombie, a costume contest, music by live DJ, several decorated trunks and tables of information and resources were out.
New Day counseling services and St. John’s Episcopal hospital gave out healthy snacks, Kiwanis Rockaways donated and decorated a vehicle. Author Sharmeika Davis-Boyd featured her books (that she will be reading in the library in November). NYPD Officer Lynn Blanchette decorated a gator. Plover wildlife had a station. Metro Plus gave out beautiful bags for the children, some who were coming out of school straight over to join the festivities.
Chick-fil-A sponsored sandwiches. Rockaway’s YMCA provided water and other refreshments. Papa John’s pizza and chicken wings were provided by Ozzie Edwards. Seagirt Adult Center provided snacks and treats for the Trunk or Treaters.
Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, dressed as a doctor, assisted with all the logistics. Ocean Bay decorated a fantastic vehicle. Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers’ office contributed. Representatives from Senator James Sanders office attended. Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato, running for re-election, took time to come out with a decorated car to hand out treats.
Rock Safe Streets and W.A.G paid a visit. DJ Focus Mang kept everybody moving and grooving, provided by Manny Silva. Queens Community Justice Center was in attendance, children decorated their own Halloween cupcakes with Cassey’s bakery. Mani Pops provided spooky cake pops. The best gift of all was the beautiful weather that day and smiling faces.
