The Eighth Annual Funday Senior Citizens Reunion took place last week at the luxurious Leonard's of Great Neck with more than 500 seniors from the Town of North Hempstead in attendance. The entire event was orchestrated and carefully planned by North Hempstead Town Commissioner of Community Services Anne Croce and her dedicated staff.

Some of the seniors were transported to the event by buses supplied by North Hempstead Town buses. But others were driven by Pierce Country Day School buses donated by Lawrence and Frances Pierce. Without those buses many of the seniors would not have been able to attend.

Besides the delicious lunch the event also included a DJ for dancing and a chance to win a magnificent TV and other prizes all donated by Rita and Frank Castagna, of Americana fame.

Many state, county and town officials were also present to greet the seniors at the luncheon including: New York State Assemblywoman Maureen O'Connell; Nassau County Deputy Commissioner of Senior Citizens Ralph Caruso; Nassau County Legislator Richard Nicolello, of New Hyde Park; North Hempstead Town Deputy Supervisor Anthony D'Urso, who helped Commissioner Croce open the festivities on behalf of Supervisor May Newburger, who was on vacation. Also present was Town Clerk Michelle Schimmel and Town Councilman Fred Pollack along with North Hempstead Town Democratic Leader Joseph Galante; President of the Nassau County Off- Track Betting, Larry Nathanson and Oyster Bay Assemblyman David Sidikman.

The United States Marines Color Guard, from Garden City, were on hand, for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, which was very impressive. The Marines in Garden City only have a skeleton crew on the base because most of them have been deployed for duty.

According to the seniors, the luncheon was delicious, the music fabulous and being able to get together, socially, with friends was the best of all.