Port Washington, NY--Supervisor Jon Kaiman along with the Town’s other elected officials announced today that even on a dreary, overcast day with rain in the forecast, this year’s annual FamilyFest celebration at North Hempstead Beach Park attracted throngs of attendees.
“We are proud and honored to have residents from across the town come together to enjoy this end of summer celebration,” said Supervisor Jon Kaiman. “That so many of you came out on a day like this is a testament to the town-wide popularity of this festival on the beach. I thank all of you for your dedicated support.”
Showcasing an exciting lineup of entertainment, including Jumpers in Command, an award-winning team of double-dutch jumpers, cover bands the Blue Meanies and Fullhouse, as well as the usual array of fun-filled activities such as face-painting, kite flying, kayaking and sand castle building, the sixth annual North Hempstead FamilyFest attracted an estimated 2,000 revelers.
Erik’s Reptile Edventures, an increasingly popular attraction at the festival wowed fans of all ages with a collection of creatures including snakes, lizards, chameleons, turtles, and even an alligator.
Between the hordes of children and the swarm of North Hempstead officials crowding the attraction, it was difficult to tell who was having the most fun.
Town Clerk Leslie Gross was the ring leader, persuading the other elected officials to interact with the animals while she fearlessly showed off her newly acquired neckwear, a 70 pound albino Burmese python, Twinkie.
“The cloudy weather didn’t dampen the spirits of all who came,” Gross said. “There was fun for everyone.” She thanked Louise Fishman, program director of the Business and Tourism Development Corp., Mary Mahaffey, administrative assistant of the Parks and Recreation Department, and the Town’s Parks Department for their hard work in making this one of the most exciting FamilyFest.
Families were entertained by Eric’s Reptile Edventure’s wildlife demonstrations.
Receiver of Taxes Charles Berman, Councilwoman Viviana Russell, Supervisor Jon Kaiman and Town Clerk Leslie Gross stand by the 2010 FamilyFest sandcastle, masterfully sculpted in the shape of aquatic creatures.