Oakland’s Annual Opening Day parade for the baseball and softball season once again proved itself to be one of the biggest and best in the state of New Jersey…and that’s only half of it – literally.
The marchers in the opening day parade only include players in grades K-4, and still the line of players and coaches stretches deep and wide as each team displays their banner and roar with team unity.
The parade itself ends with a variety of speeches that always pay recognition to the adult volunteers, and honor the work of previous volunteers. While many of the players lining the infield may not always be listening, this portion of the opening day ceremonies is geared to those parents in adults filling the outfield.
Oakland’s recreation program is run and administered by an all volunteer group of Oakland residents, and recognizing and honoring their work is important in keeping that volunteer spirit alive. The importance of the volunteers to Oakland’s recreation has been a point of pride, community spirit, and keeping sports an affordable option for all of Oakland. A special thanks to Lori Dent, Jill Hickey, Dan Logatto and Marty O’Brien for making this year’s parade special for all the players and their families.
This year, in addition to recognizing the work of present day commissioners, coaches, administrators and other volunteers, The Sports Association of Oakland inducted Frank Monaco into the Hall of Fame for his work with recreation in the latter half of the 20th century. It was a fitting tribute as Monaco assumes a new position on an ad hoc committee established by Mayor Schwager to review how Oakland rec moves forward into the 21st century.
The ceremonies actually begin with a tribute to America, especially her sons & daughters serving in military operations.
This year’s rendition of the Star Spangled Banner sung by 9th grader Andrea Bautista evoked silence and respect from even the youngest in attendance.
Following the ceremonies, players, parents, coaches, grandparents, friends & siblings continued the festivities with food, drink, and a carnival atmosphere. Free hot dogs, cotton candy, drinks, a giant slide and bouncy house were all part of the scene….And, true to the nature of childhood, a small group of players chose to find their fun playing on a big pile of dirt.
Below are videos of the parade itself and the Star Spangled Banner.
Congrats and thanks to the rec commission and all the volunteers for making the parade and festivities fun for everyone.