The Levittown West Little League celebrated its 50th anniversary at Red Wing Field last Saturday, after having to postpone the event and the rain date of the celebration earlier in the month due to rain.

Glen Brannigan, president of Levittown West began the ceremonies by stating, "Fifty years ago, volunteers met their goal to bring Little League to Levittown." Brannigan explained that in doing so, the founders of the organization brought to Levittown "America's favorite pastime," which taught the children of the community lessons in sportsmanship and fair play, along with the techniques of the game.

The first dignitary that Brannigan introduced was Nassau County Legislator Dennis Dunne, who played Little League on Levittown fields. Dunne began by noting that back when he played Little League the fields were bad. He commented on the great condition of the fields today, "thanks to what the town has done." Dunne then congratulated Levittown West for the great things the organization has done for the community and concluded, "Thanks for keeping up tradition."

The next elected official to speak was Assemblywoman Kate Murray, another Levittown native. Murray reminisced about how when she was growing up the Little League parade used to pass her house every year, and spoke about how her brothers played Levittown Little League. Levittown West Little League, said Murray, "is a great association for our community." Murray continued, "These organizations are why Levittown is such a good and vibrant community." Murray then thanked each parent and coach of the Levittown West Little League over the past 50 years and wished the organization at least another 50 years of success.

Other elected officials including Assemblyman Marc Herbst, Town of Hempstead Receiver of Taxes Donald Clavin, Nassau County Comptroller Fred Parola, and Nassau County Clerk Karen Murphy added their congratulations and wishes for future success, as well.

Brannigan then introduced another Levittown resident, who has been "a real asset to Levittown West," Town of Hempstead Councilman Gary Hudes. Brannigan noted that Hudes, "has always come through for us whenever we needed anything without blinking an eye." Hudes noted that because he lives only a few blocks from Red Wing Field, he and his wife spent time on the field watching their son, Jason play T-ball, etc. "This is an absolutely fabulous program," commended Hudes. "It's a pleasure to be able to give back to the community." Hudes then called for a round of applause for Brannigan and the entire Levittown West Board of Directors for providing "50 years of wonderful service."

Kevin Regan, the executive director of the Levittown-Island Trees Youth Council, the organization under which Levittown West falls, on behalf of the other 14 organizations in the youth council, congratulated Levittown West for everything they've done in the last 50 years "for all our children."

Former presidents of the Levittown West organization such as Ron Ginobbi, who served from 1971-72 and Ken Auer, who served from 1986-87 were on hand and received hats and pins from Levittown West Little League commemorating the occasion.

Jessica Hudes then sang the Star Spangled Banner for the crowd as the flags were raised for the first time on the field's newly dedicated flagpole. As the song ended, Brannigan announced, "Let the games begin," opening a full afternoon of enjoyment for those on hand for the celebration.