The second annual block party served multiple purposes for the organization. It allowed members to create an event that brought not just Wellsville residents but also visitors from out of town together to socialize and enjoy a night out by the river. It also served as a fundraiser for the Wellsville Foundation.

The Foundation raised money at the event though a live auction, a Chinese auction and a 50/50 raffle.

The event was a benefit to the Elks Lodge, a private organization which opened its doors to the public during the party, allowing the public to learn more about the organization and possibly become new members.

The party was a family event held alongside the Ohio River on Riverside Drive between 7th and 8th streets with food and entertainment for all ages. The Vintage Band performed. There was face painting and a bounce house for the children. The Wellsville Carnegie Library had a table set up where children could make necklaces and families could learn more about what the library has to offer.

The Vintage Band performed classic music during the Wellsville Block Party. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

The Faithful Flour, Pizza Hut and Rusty Bull Tacos –all local food vendors –offered a variety of options. For dessert, Truly Scrumptious Sweets and Treats had a variety of cupcakes and cookies, some decorated with Fathers’ Day themes to sell.

Vendors and organizations such as The Wellsville Foundation, Consumers National Bank, The River Valley Organizing, and the Wellsville Carnegie Library had tables set up for attendees to stop and talk to them to find out more about what services they offer.

Vendors were also set up selling pure Ohio maple syrup, Avon and sweets and treats.

Professor Dawna Cerney of Youngstown State University, who worked with The Wellsville Foundation President Eddie Murphy on a revitalization plan for the community, came from Aliquippa, Ohio said she fell in love with Wellsville while working on that plan. So she came to event to support the transition that the community is making.

“I love it, “Cerney said of the event. “The music and food were great. I love the fact that the community is out reacquainting themselves with their neighbors. We don’t have enough of that in society.”

One-and-a-half year old Caleb Faloon, enjoyed the bounce house at the Wellsville Block Party. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

Wellsville resident Teri Martin said she came to the block party because she is always looking for something to do and wanted to support the foundation.

Wellsville Foundation vice-president Tim McNichol felt the evening went well and was pleased with the turnout despite weather concerns.

“It seems like everyone is having a really nice time so I’m really happy about the event,” McNichol said. “The community is being very generous, and we want to thank the Elks for their generosity in letting us use this venue. It’s a win-win situation for both organizations.”

Ronald and Savannah Leggett enjoyed the block party with their Boston Terriers, Diesel and Chase. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

Melanie Kidwell, owner of Truly Scrumptious Sweets and Treats, had a variety of cookies and cupcakes —some even Father’s Day-themed for purchase. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

Four-months-old Emilia Elliott enjoyed her first block party while being carried in the arms of her dad, Brad Elliott. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

One-year-old Mylah Burr got a puppy painted on her face. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

Youngstown State University Professor Dawna Cerney auctioned off a painting donated by an anonymous donor during the block party to raise money for the Wellsville Foundation. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)

Attendees at the Wellsville Block Party gathered in front of the Elks Lodge on Riverside Drive to listen to live music, eat and purchase 50/50 raffle and Chinese auction tickets. (Photo by Kristi R. Garabrandt)