Joseph Bolanos is the president of the 76th Street Park Block Association, has been an Upper West Sider for over 45 years, and has been a community advocate for over 20 years. He was also the president of the 20th Precinct Community Council from 2000-2003.
This March, he began doing good for his neighborhood in a new way – by dancing in the street to show his support and solidarity to frontline and essential workers!
He’s been dancing every Wednesday after the 7pm clap, and he soon may perform on Fridays as well. His last performance was dedicated to the many UWS restaurants which have had to recently close.
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“I’ve danced a few evenings since March 17th which was the first one. I’ve danced to Sinatra’s “New York, New York”, Ella Fitzgerald’s “Manhattan”, Bobby Darin & Michael Bublé’s “Mack the Knife,” Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind,” Bill Withers’ “Lean On Me.”
People gather to see him dance as they applaud and video the wonderful tribute.
Bolanos and neighbors have participated in the 7pm clap for the last two months on a nightly basis. About his neighbors, Bolanos says “we’re in this together. And it’s not about me. It’s about my neighbors. Without them, this wouldn’t have happened.”
Here’s a clip of one of his popular performances (best to view in full screen mode!).
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Joe – Those knees of yours have come a long way back! Congratulations, and thanks, Twinkle Toes! Ed and Alan
Thank you Joseph. You really cheered me up. I am retired in Colorado but oh,, MY HEART IS IN NEW YORK CITY…UPWS, where my family lives. You made me feel so good..can you do a Willy Nelson dance for me?