A massive traffic backup lined the entrance of Tricentennial Park on October 31st as hundreds of local families arrived for the “Stop The Violence Halloween Funday,” hosted by local philanthropist Mayzville Ball. The free late-afternoon gathering gave neighborhood children a safe, lively space to celebrate, serving as a direct alternative to traditional street trick-or-treating.
For organizer Mayzville Ball, putting together this massive party was a deliberate stand against the street violence that has touched the surrounding neighborhoods.
“I’m really bringing everyone together… no violence, everything just peaceful out here,” Ball said during an on-site interview. “All the kids are having fun and running around.”
The festival kept families moving and children entertained within a supervised boundary. Volunteers lined the pathways to assist families and distribute holiday items smoothly, including trackless train rides, multiple inflatable jump house zones, organized trick-or-treat tables packed with candy, and stacks of fresh Domino’s pizzas served completely free of charge.
What makes the event stand out is that its operations rely entirely on direct grassroots action. Ball, a local worker covering expenses entirely out of his own pocket, explained that the initiative is powered by everyday citizens protecting the city’s youth.
“Every year it gets bigger and bigger, and I’m seeing different people in the community come out, get together, and have fun with the kids,” Ball said.
The holiday drive builds upon community outreach events held regularly at Tricentennial Park, including annual back-to-school drives and May Day festivals. For the organizer, the ultimate goal is to see more local residents step up to match these efforts.
“I have a lot of women come out and do contributions and donations, but I would love for more of my guys, the fathers, to join with me,” Ball noted. “I don’t care who you are, what color, or what race… anybody who is willing to join and do it for the community out here.”