Taste of Thornton Township sees larger crowds at larger venue

South Suburban College campus provides more room for people and activities

by Ernst Lamothe Jr.

SOUTH HOLLAND, Ill. (September 3, 2018) – Moving to South Suburban College for the first time, the August 25 Taste of Thornton Township saw larger crowds who filled the expansive campus to enjoy games, rides, and live entertainment. Thornton Township Supervisor Frank M. Zuccarelli looked over the crowd and shouted: “We’re having a great time today at the Taste!”

Zuccarelli added, “The Taste is one of our largest events and brings people throughout Thornton Township in one place to enjoy great live music, food, and family entertainment.”

The almost 90-degree day did not temper excitement for the 17th annual event. This year’s Taste featured free activities for the kids—face painting, carnival rides, and games—as well as practical fun such as back-to-school haircuts and book bags with school supplies. Attendees also enjoyed a petting zoo, a large assortment of food and craft vendors, live music from several bands, and a classic car show.

“This year’s Taste was better than last year. More people came out this year than last year,” said Tui M. Muse, Taste Chairman and Human Relations Commissioner. “The car show was excellent. It was amazing. The food was great and lots of variety. Entertainment was fantastic.”

Several live bands entertained the crowd, and Trysh Granberry made a cameo appearance. Cranberry is an “America’s Got Talent” contestant, a Dolton resident, and a Thornton Township General Assistance employee.

“Michael Jackson, James Brown, and Tina Turner impersonators dazzled the crowd,” said Joyce Washington, Thornton Township Trustee. “The Seniors enjoyed themselves at the bingo tables. This event is for the community to come together and enjoy food, entertainment, family, and friends. We appreciate our great community.”

Having South Suburban College as the new venue this year gave event organizers more room to expand the offerings. People from all over Thornton Township and areas as far as Chicago and Indiana were there. Mayors and other elected officials throughout the area were in attendance.

The packed weekend also featured the second annual Taste of Thornton Township Basketball Tournament. The tournament involved teens and police playing on the same team for the pride of their town. This year, the Town of Markham defeated the Village of Dolton to take the championship trophy.

Although defending champion Lansing had to relinquish the title, Lansing Police Chief Dennis Murrin was quick to acknowledge that the program is an essential community initiative. “It was a great atmosphere, seeing the teenagers and police officers working together,” said Murrin. “This is something that we definitely want to be a part of each year.”