Avella, Weprin and Halloran Help BHCA Kick Off The Summer

 It’s official — summer is here!

And to mark the occasion, local politicians helped the Bayside Hills Civic Association observe the groups annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Memorial Plaza in Bayside, Saturday morning.

“Those who went over and fought and died…made the ultimate sacrifice so that we could on this weekend be with family,” said State Senator Tony Avella.

Also among the honored guests at this years’ ceremony were City Council Members Mark Weprin and Dan Halloran.

“You take things for granted, but freedom isn’t free,” Weprin said. “As we’re out at our BBQs this weekend…we’re doing so under the umbrella of freedom that countless lives have purchased for us over the years,” Halloran added.

The Bayside Hills Civic Association’s Annual Memorial Day Celebration is a local tradition dating back to World War II.

“They dedicated this plaza, during the war to all the local heroes who lost their lives, said BHCA president Michael Feiner, adding "we’ve since dedicated this mall to all our heroes who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.“ 

Among those who joined in this years’ observance ceremony were local Boy Scout Troop #142 and Cub Scout Pack #142 who raise the flag and then led those at Memorial Plaza along Bell Boulevard in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Saturday’s ceremony ended with the flag being lowered to half-mast as all those in attendance observed a brief moment of silence while listening to TAPS.

Everyone there on Saturday morning was mindful of the steep cost of freedom.

“Today, I remember all of the friends I lost to war and on 9-11," said Richard Kashdan, adding, "I hope one day we’ll finally see peace on earth and our troops can come home.” 

Check back with Bayside Patch for a photo roll from the event.

Editor's Note: A previous version of this article listed the incorrect contributor as author of this piece. Contributor Patrick Conti wrote this piece and shot the video.

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