Memorial Day Parade
Celebrating the lives of those who gave all, residents of every age lined both sides of Rt. 202 to cheer on the marchers in Oakland’s Memorial Day Parade.
It was an opportunity for all the civic organizations that serve the Oakland community to wave their colors, honk their horns, and give the crowds a joyful reminder that what makes America great is the people, their values and commitment.
Parades like this, although fun and exciting, serve a vital purpose in teaching children, and the youthful marchers in Oakland’s parade were proof that the tradition will continue.
Read more on the parade and The American Legion…
Baseball Players Play for Charity
Oakland baseball was playing for charities this weekend in the Bergen County Charity Classic. With sponsors that include The Bergen Record and The New Jersey Jackals, the fundraiser this year will benefit the Emerson Disabled Student Athlete Fund , The Samantha Rose Reverand Foundation, Friends of Philip Apreda Foundation, CJ Personette Fund, and Pachyonychia Congenita Project.
The tournament expected over 2,500 youngsters, ages 8 to 14, to participate in 300 games, said event organizer Steve Silverman, board member of the Bergen County Charity Classic. Four Oakland teams, 9&Under, 12&Under,13&Under, and 14&Under, participated in The Classic . Although the Oakland 12&Under were the only team to play at home, a coin toss determined them to be the “visiting team”. They were ready to play on Sunday with a lead off hit turning into a double with a close play at second; and, this was soon followed-up with a spectacular 1st inning homerun .
BBQs and Fun Around Town
Oakland, like the rest of America, takes the opportunity for a holiday weekend to plan get togethers, outings and the traditional barbecue. Around town there was plenty of action going on with the parade and ball games, but smaller activities with smaller numbers of people were having just a big a good time without the crowds.
People were enjoying the great outdoors with some biking, and others hauling the canoe down to the Ramapo River. The firehouse house folks were having their community barbecue, and Crystal Lake members were out in full force enjoying the beach and -for the younger set- braving the still chilly waters for a swim. Churches, teams, friends and family took advantage of the great weather to welcome in the summer season.
Cars were lining some streets for the bigger backyard parties, but other folks kept it small with some cocktails on the front porch. Watching the speeches on TV, or catching up by phone with those far away, people took a break from the daily grind and worries to enjoy. It didn’t matter if the burger was overcooked, or if the hot dog fell on the ground, little things took a backseat to a holiday that puts life’s real values into perspective.