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Politics & Government

A Fun Lesson in Safety

Children's Festival and Safety Day gives early life lessons.

First there was the threat of falling lights, then there was the threat of falling rain, but in the end, nothing could dampen the spirits of the organizers, performers or public who came out for the 3rd Annual Children's Festival and Safety Day at John J. Burns Park on Saturday.

"This event is about introducing families and especially youngsters to fire prevention and public safety agencies in an atmosphere where they can at the same time enjoy fun and games," said Oyster Bay Town  Supervisor John Venditto. "The younger people are when they start learning about community service, the more inclined they'll be to be involved as adults."

Among the agencies on hand were the MTA/Long Island Railroad Police, who spoke to kids and handed out coloring books designed to teach the importance of being safe around railroad tracks and crossings. The Massapequa Fire Department demonstrated how the Jaws of Life are used to rescue car accident victims, while the U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Public Safety-Bay Constables displayed boats and presented boating safety instruction and literature.

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There were also activities that allowed  kids to let loose, including a blow-up bouncy obstacle course, a moon bouncer and slide, as well as a climbing wall. Clowns made balloon animals and a magician entertained the crowd. Children were given the chance to paint their own tile to be displayed at a Town of Oyster Bay facility.

The Wallendorf family  spent the afternoon celebrating their son John Joseph's fourth birthday. "He really enjoyed the Bounce and Slide," his  father Charles said, as the birthday boy held his grandmother's hand and munched on popcorn. Guests were also treated to free hotdogs, pretzels, cotton candy, Sno Cones and lemonade, all courtesy of the event sponsors.

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One of the highlights of the Children's Festival was the performance of Charlie Dane, a talented up-and-coming 11-year old singer/guitarist/songwriter from Oyster Bay, who played several songs including two of her own compositions. "It was fun performing here," she beamed. "I love everybody watching me and seeing them enjoy my music." Other features included a karate demonstration by the American Black Belt Academy and a performance by the boy rock group MOP.

"I'm happy the weather is holding up," noted Town Councilwoman Rebecca Alesia, "and as the parent of 3-year old son, it's great to see so many families coming out and taking advantage of this free program."

"In addition to helping introduce people to the various branches of law enforcement, we are also here for internet safety and summer reading programs," said State Senator Joseph Saladino. "I can't say enough about the local businesses that stepped up to sponsor this event."

In addition to the questionable weather, organizers this week dealt with concerns that the event might not take place at all. On Wednesday, Town officials closed the park  because of the recall of defective light poles.  "Although we initially were expecting to complete work by Saturday morning," said Town Public Safety Commissioner Justin McCaffrey, "we finished up earlier and re-opened the park at 1:00 on Friday afternoon, with plenty of time to spare to keep this event on schedule."

 

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