To the editor:
It was a very wet, foul morning but the Pennington Memorial Day Parade still prevailed and marched its way down Main Street again this year as neighbors, friends and families lined the streets to honor our nation’s fallen heroes. The parade would not be possible if it weren’t for the many volunteers and Borough employees who join together each year to make it a memorable day for all. With that said we would like to thank the following individuals and organizations for their time and commitment to this year’s parade.
First and foremost to our Hopewell Valley Veteran’s, driven by Colonel Kenneth Baker. Thanks to Venturing Crew 44 for their color guard and participation in the laying of the wreath ceremony. Special thanks to the Mayor, past and present elected officials, Bill Meytrott and the entire Police Department, the Public Works Department and the Borough Administrative Office.
We are grateful to the following local businesses and community members which support our parade each year: The Pennington Market, Wayne Tuck of Mid State Equipment Company for the use of the gator, The Pennington School for the use of their grounds, Dahlia’s Floral Concepts for the memorial wreath, Rita’s Water Ice for end of the parade refreshments, Hopewell Valley Board of Education, Blackwell Memorial Home for entering their antique horse driven hearse, The Pennington Professional & Business Association and The Hopewell Valley News.
Thanks to our volunteers, Gus Rossi who drove a decorated truck to publicize our evening concert featuring The Jack Furlong Orchestra (rained out but stay tuned for a new concert date), Toll Gate Grammar School teachers Meg Caufield and Mary Tavoletti for judging the “Kids on Bikes competition, Sam Margulis and Richard Sperry for assistance at the end of parade refreshments and the fabulous Hopewell High School Marching Band who kept the mood upbeat even in the pouring rain.
A special thanks to the Pennington Parks & Recreation Commission for their time and effort in all the preparation leading up to the day of the parade. They are Brett Margulis, Frank Vanderree, Sudi Southall, Annemarie Hofacker and Sue Nami.
If I have forgotten anyone I apologize and thank you in advance for your assistance in making this year’s parade another successful and enjoyable day for all.
Michelle Needham
Pennington Parks & Recreation Commission
