A Germantown dance-off cancelled, but organizers still plan ‘Oldies in the Park’ remix next summer

Wednesday night marked the last of eight “Oldies in the Park” events at Germantown’s Vernon Park, and those involved in organizing it hope to expand the inaugural series next summer.

“We’re thankful with how it turned out. We can all come together with the Northwest Philadelphia community, participate and support people having a great time,” said state Rep. Stephen Kinsey, who admittedly tagged on to an idea presented by City Councilwoman Cindy Bass.

“This was the first time it was done, and we got some great ideas from folks in the audience that’ll help us build upon it,” he continued, noting that he’d like to get other elected officials and community groups in the mix next year.

Reports from the scene indicated that the only issue of the evening was one particular dancer emulating a Miley Cyrus penchant for “twerking.”

Future plans

Among the ideas for 2014 is including youth activities since more children came out each week than initially anticipated. Kinsey said this could also serve as a rallying cry to get the Friends of Vernon Park group more support with park upkeep.

The series — sponsored by Bass along with Kinsey, 3rd Floor Media, Germantown Restoration CDC and the Black Writers Museum — launched July 10.

Billed as a “free event to enjoy old school music in the park,” Oldies in the Park was initially slated to run every Wednesday through Aug. 28.

Bass/Kinsey dance-off postponed

However, last week’s rain not only pushed the series into September.

It also nixed a planned dance-off involving Bass and Kinsey as the former reported she wasn’t feeling well enough to participate Wednesday.

“I understand that she was under the weather,” said Kinsey, “but I would have won anyway. I want to go on the record saying that.”

When NewsWorks notified Bass’ office of Kinsey’s bold declaration, the councilwoman replied (in jest), “Along with many others, I have seen Rep. Kinsey dance and would beg differ.”