The Farmingdale Baseball League (FBLI) held its traditional Opening Day parade on April 29. New York State Senator Kemp Hannon was honored as this year’s Grand Marshal, an honor that is bestowed on a community member who has distinguished themselves as a true friend of the community and Farmingdale Baseball. Senator Hannon has always been supportive of the leagues efforts to provide the children of Farmingdale with a top-notch baseball program through his securing of state grants each year.

The parade kicks off the start of the FBLI baseball season. Approximately 1,200 boys and girls ages 6 through 17 participate each year in the program. This year marks the 56th year of Farmingdale Baseball. The FBLI players and coaches were joined by Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto, Assemblyman Joseph Saladino, TOB Councilmen Joe Muscarella and Anthony Macagnone, Councilwoman Rose Walker, Nassau County Legislator Ed Mangano, Village of Farmingdale Mayor George Graf, Village Trustees Patricia Christiansen and Butch Starkie, Farmingdale School Board and Youth Council Trustee Kathy Lively. The parade also featured apparatus from our local fire departments (Farmingdale, South Farmingdale and North Massapequa) and three marching bands. The Nassau County Police Department and Auxiliary Police were on hand to escort and assure a safe parade route for all the marchers. The traditional balloon launch (signifying the opening of the baseball season) officially started the 2007 season. Immediately following the parade ceremonies, the season’s first games took place on the Allen Park 60’ diamonds. The FBLI would like to thank Park Manager Mike Rauff and his crew for once again having the park and fields ready for the day. The FBLI board also wants to thank all the marchers and the parade committee (chaired by Dave Aitchison) for making this year’s parade a success.