A Day to Remember in
Huntington Station
A larger than expected crowd turned out in Huntington Station last Saturday for the first Awareness Day parade and fair. Organizers were overjoyed as peoples of all ages, nationalities, religions and cultures enjoyed each other's company while coming together in an impressive display of community unity.
Led by grand marshals Paul Johnson and Marta Smith, the parade stepped off at E. 15th street and continued down New York Avenue to the fairgrounds set-up in the commuter parking lot located between Railroad and Church streets. Bands from Huntington High School and Stimson Middle School marched in the colorful procession to the delight of those lining the route.
The crowd consisted of residents from both the Huntington and South Huntington school districts. "It was a great day for Huntington Station," said Alvin White, who co-chaired the event along with Huntington Supervisor Frank Petrone and longtime community activist Dolores Thompson. "The children were especially excited to be there."
"It was nice that there was both participation from Huntington's band and the music program in South Huntington because, while we are different school districts, we are part of one community facing challenges and opportunities together," said Rebecca Sanin, who played a role in organizing the day.
There were dozens of tents, public service vendors, games and rides. The popular rock band KNOMAD also played several sets. The crowd included Huntington School Board members and district administrators, leaders of non-profit and religious organizations, teachers and public officials. Senator Carl Marcellino and Assemblyman Jim Conte were on the scene for extended periods and they chatted away with community members.
"The turnout for the event was excellent, given that this was a first time event," Mrs. Sanin said. "The families present only had positive things to say about the rides for children, the musical entertainment and the overall positive energy of the day."
Organizers said the purpose of the day was to bring together as many diverse segments of the community as possible to display their unity and solidarity. By their presence and spoken words, hundreds of parents and children indicated their support for a strong Huntington and a brighter future for Huntington Station.
"It was great to see children of all ages playing, laughing and enjoying the day together with their friends from across the community," Mrs. Sanin said.