When someone says parade, Broad Channel comes marching in. This time, on Friday evening, July 10, it was a parade to celebrate America’s 250th birthday! And the event was a patriotic success.
Broad Channel residents were decked out in their best red, white and blue, as were many homes on the parade route from 17th Road Park and down Cross Bay Blvd. to the VFW on Shad Creek Road. The event was organized by Eddie O’Hare and his family. Some neighbors rode on decorated vehicles, most walked the route and some pushed decorated baby carriages and wagons in this family-fun event. Groups like Girl Scouts Troop 04434, veterans from the VFW and others also joined in while organizations like the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department, the West Hamilton Beach Fire Department, and the NYPD’s 100th Precinct made sure it ran safely and smoothly. Councilwoman Joann Ariola and Pesach Osina, Democrat nominee for the Assembly District 23 race also marched along and greeted Broad Channel residents. Even an American bald eagle mascot got into the spirit, bringing smiles to those waving flags and watching on the sidelines.
After the parade, everyone was welcome to continue the fun at the VFW with live music.
Councilwoman Joann Ariola said, “Great job to Ed O’Hare and family for organizing! Thank you to the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department and the West Hamilton Beach Fire Department, and the NYPD 100 precinct for keeping us all safe as we celebrate the greatest nation in the world!”
Photos by Dan Guarino.
