SUCCESSFUL BLOCK PARTY — This year’s Sycamore/Aim Summer Block Party, held Aug. 8 on the green space next to the Aim Women’s Center, featured entertainment, local talent, inflatables for children and free food for everyone. Among those taking part were, clockwise from top left, Elisa Morris, daughter of co-host Rebekah Cohen Morris, executive director of the Aim Woman’s Center, who served burgers to guests; approximately 150 students who attended this year’s Sycamore Summer Fun Camp and entertainers and hosts of the party: J.R. Lawrence Lewis, Bella Thompson, Quinn Alloggia, Lexa Davis, Harper Kurner, Avrie Deah, Lynzee Ensell and co-hosts Cohen Morris and Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — The streets of downtown Steubenville were alive with music, laughter and fellowship on Aug. 8, as more than 400 people united for the Sycamore/Aim Summer Block Party. The event saw the joining of 150 children who were part of this year’s Sycamore Summer Fun Camp, coming together with community residents for an afternoon of faith, fun and camaraderie.

The block party served as the conclusion to their week-long camp experience and was hosted by the Sycamore Youth Center and the Aim Women’s Center. Transforming the green space that is adjacent to Aim’s facility on North and Fifth streets, the area became a hub

Families enjoyed free hamburgers, hot dogs and cold drinks, while children played on inflatables and participated in a variety of games. Entertainment filled the streets, featuring Lynzee Ensell, the 2021 Valley’s Got Talent winner; Bella Thompson, the 2023 Valley’s Got Talent vocal champion; the Dance Force Elite Rising Stars dance troupe and the uplifting music of J.R. Lawrence Lewis.

“This evening was a testimony to God’s goodness in bringing our community together,” stated Bobbyjon Bauman, Sycamore’s executive director.

“When we unite to serve, love and encourage each other in Christ’s name, lives are touched and hope is restored,” he added.

“We are called by God to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this community,” commented Rebekah Cohen Morris, Aim’s executive director who served as a Bible teacher during the summer camp. “Whether it’s through a warm meal, a smile or an encouraging word, we want every person here to know they are loved and valued by God.”

The evening served not only as a vibrant community gathering, but as a fitting celebration of the Sycamore Summer Fun Camp, which offered a week of Bible teaching, recreation and creativity for local youth — all free of charge.