It is hard to believe that nine years have passed since the first Homecoming Fair was held. An idea from Pat Love, a past high school PTSA president and Board of Education trustee, has now given Hicksville's community nine years of memories. With each year the event has grown bigger and better.

As the sun began to rise on the day of Homecoming, staff and parents of the Hicksville school community began setting up the Hicksville Homecoming Fair 1999. The sun shone bright and the Hicksville spirit was radiant. Students, teachers, parents, staff, and administrators all worked together to provide the school community with a memorable day, and it was.

The community enjoyed the many game booths and rides. They even gave their best shots to try and dunk the volunteers of the dunking booth. The variety of foods that were available throughout the day were able to tempt every palate. Homecoming organizers offered special thanks to the Outback Steakhouse for donating staff and food to the successful fair.

The high school students had an opportunity to demonstrate their talents and creativity not only at their various booths, but also during the Homecoming parade and through the football game. The spectacular display of the class floats circled the track with first place going to the juniors.

For the very first time, all 50/50 raffle tickets were sold, the winner took home $2,500. All the money raised by the PTA unit booths, as well as the profit from the 50/50 raffle and other raffle prizes, will fund scholarships for our graduates. This years' fair will provide 10 - $400 scholarships for the graduates of the class 2000.

Special thanks to Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Homes for donating the raffle prize, a CD Stereo. Congratulations to Dutch Lane Elementary School on selling the most pre-sale 50/50 raffle tickets. Dutch Lane students, who are fourth year winners, will enjoy an ice cream party for their outstanding efforts.

At 2 p.m. the Homecoming Football game kicked off, with Jennifer Perkowski singing the national anthem. As the Hicksville Comet Football team took the field, the team announced they were dedicating the Homecoming Game of 1999 in John Walker's memory. The Comets went on to be victorious over Plainview (20-0).

On behalf of the students, the Hicksville PTA Council would like to thank the entire district and all participants- PTA units, HCT, Booster Club, Band Parents Association, student clubs and advisors, and staff members for their support.

Thank you to the Hicksville Community for supporting our students. See you next Homecoming 2000!