Thursday November 11, 2021, arrived as a sunny and temperate morning, The corner of Lake Avenue and Woodlawn became a flurry of activity, as marching bands, scouts, baton twirlers, and a contingent of Veterans from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 395 gathered to lead the parade north on Lake Avenue for St. James Elementary School.
Joining the groups of marchers were Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy, Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy, NYS Senator Mario Mattera, NYS Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick and Smithtown Councilman Tom Lohman.
Several antique cars joined in the parade, including a 1909 Pierce Arrow. Legislator Kennedy and Ellen Okvist, Chairwoman of the Lake Ronkonkoma Heritage Organization traveled the parade route in the Pierce Arrow. Local residents lined the streets and cheered on the veterans and all who participated. It’s a fair statement to say that Lake Avenue was brimming with local pride, and gratitude for the sacrifices veteran have made on the behalf of America.
Photo: Legislator Leslie Kennedy and Ellen Okvist with the 1909 Pierce Arrow
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Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy represents the 12th Legislative District, encompassing Smithtown, Nesconset, Hauppauge, the Village of the Branch, Lake Grove, parts of Commack, Ronkonkoma, Lake Ronkonkoma and Centereach. Legislator Kennedy was born and raised on Long Island, is a former nurse and small business manager, and has dedicated her life toward the betterment of our community. She currently serves on the following committees: Environment, Parks & Agriculture; Veterans & Consumer Affairs; Fire, Rescue and Emergency Medical Services & Preparedness; Government, Operations, Personnel, Information Technology & Diversity; Education & Labor; Public Safety; Ways & Means; and Health (Vice Chair).