Connecticut Post, July 4, 2008. RICHARD WEIZEL

 

Pride Flows on 4th Despite Tough Times

Silliman Baptist Block Party

At a small block party in Bridgeport, the poor, needy and homeless got the chance to join the national celebration.

"We know people are hurting right now and we wanted to provide a setting where they could come by and eat a hamburger and hot dog, and celebrate the founding of our country with other members of the community," said the Rev. Joseph C. Delahunt, pastor of Silliman Memorial Baptist Church on Fairfield Avenue.

The church sponsored the party from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a backdrop of a large billboard, passing traffic and a view of Interstate 95.

"I just got out of jail last night after 22 days for driving without a license and DUI, and am homeless," said Barry Koch, who had no money and didn't know how he would have eaten Friday had it not been for free food at the event.

"I guess I'm a good example of what's going on in our country right now," said Koch as he enjoyed the first of several hot dogs. "Things have been pretty rough, but I won't give up. It's a great country when you can get out of jail and still find a place to eat and celebrate the Fourth."

 

               Connecticut Post, July 4, 2008. RICHARD WEIZEL