Harlem Globetrotters Make Special Trip to Brookside Elementary

The New Jersey State Library has named McKenna Pope, a student at in Bloomfield, the winner of a statewide essay contest about goodwill.

As the winner, McKenna's school received a visit from Buckets Blakes and Scooter Christensen of the Harlem Globetrotters, the original "Ambassadors of Goodwill," Wednesday afternoon.

Blakes and Christensen brought the Globetrotters' renowned "C.H.E.E.R. for Character" program to teach students about cooperation, healthy mind and body, effort, enthusiasm and responsibility. Students also enjoyed the Globetrotters' impressive hoops skills which was part of a motivational presentation.

McKenna will bring her new friends, Blakes and Christensen, to visit children at Hackensack Medical Center, the hospital where she was treated after being diagnosed with epilepsy. Known as the Globetrotters' "SMILE Patrol," Blakes and Christensen will show off their signature moves from room to room.

In addition, McKenna received tickets to see the Globetrotters' "4 Times the Fun" show at the IZOD Center later this month.

McKenna Pope's winning essay:

"Goodwill means many things. I think it means giving someone a simple cheering up. In my opinion, some people who could use cheering up are the child patients in Hackensack Medical Center. When I was diagnosed with epilepsy, I went to that hospital. Seeing sad children with cancer really made me heartbroken. But, when the service dogs came to visit us, everyone's eyes lit up like fireworks. All they're looking for is some fun and I  think seeing (the Harlem Globetrotters) play will provide that - no doubt!"