BAINBRIDGE ST/MALCOLM X BLVD BLOCK ASSOCIATION HOST HOLIDAY PARTY!
Block Devastated by Tragedy Join Forces in Unity to Serve as Instrument of Change
By Keith L. Forest

Although the weather outside was frightful, the love and unity inside New Destiny Housing was warm and neighborly as members of Bainbridge Street/Malcolm X Blvd Block Association faced one of the city’s worst storms to attend its inaugural Christmas party. Inside the sprawling basement recreational hall, block member Chiquina Richardson, a talented and creatively gifted event planner, decked the halls with holiday splendor magically capturing a “Winter White Christmas” theme complete with snow caps, a frosty, glittering tree and candle lit motifs.

The affair was truly a collaborative effort and everyone enthusiastically pitched in. Whether it was shopping for food, assisting with decorations or cleaning up, all hands joyfully came together for a day of reflection and celebration. During the get together all attending children kept busy playing numerous board games, while adults mixed and mingle. Young resident Erica Smith - a shining member of the prestigious Noel Pointer School of Music - led the crowd in a solo violin performance of “Jingle Bells” while her father, Block President Eric Smith honored all with a holiday toast. In addition to the delicious food and festive treats, all attending children received a complimentary gift from City Councilwoman Darlene Mealy.

Earlier this year Bainbridge Street/Malcolm X Boulevard Block Association made headlines when three (3) of its youth were gunned down in broad daylight in what was classified as a gang-related shooting. In honor of such tragic lost neighbors joined forces demanding stronger police presence and a complete investigation.

Bainbridge St/Malcolm X Blvd Block Association, which just elected all new officers, was recently rewarded a Love Your Block grant. In addition to cash funding, the grant includes expedited support from various city agencies for block improvement which includes cleaning up vacant lots, replacing worn out litter baskets, removing graffiti and replacing worn out street signs. The block association plans to use the funding to continue its beautification efforts in making Bainbridge Street a safe and respectful place to call home.