Yossi Oren, the newly inaugurated president of Community League of Garden City South, shared details of their upcoming plans for 2025. The league, which serves Franklin Square and nearby town residents, boasts itself as the first civic on Long Island after being incorporated in 1929. The community league’s board works on public initiatives across the town and acts as a liaison between residents and elected officials. Oren welcomes all to their meetings, which occur on the first Wednesday of each month at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2718 on Lincoln Road in Franklin Square.
1. May 26: Memorial Day Parade
The Memorial Day parade is officially on! The community league will be one of the parade’s sponsors on May 26. The parade will begin at VFW Post 2718 on Lincoln Road in Franklin Square, travel along Hempstead Turnpike, and end in Rath Park on Naples Avenue. The parade will include the Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department, veterans from VFW Post 2718, elected officials from the Town of Hempstead and, of course, local residents! Oren said a few classic car clubs might make an appearance, as well. After the parade concludes in the park, residents are welcome to stay for a Memorial Day service featuring speeches by local officials, members of the clergy, and veterans. Oren also encouraged residents to line the streets of the parade path in support of those who served in the military.
2. June 13: Murder Mystery Dinner
Back by popular demand, the league is returning for their third annual Murder Mystery Dinner on June 13 at St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook. In this fun twist on their fundraising dinner, guests will take part in a special, immersive wedding-themed performance by the Murder Mystery Company called “Til Death Do Us Part.” Oren said they’re currently selling tickets, which are $85, through May 28. The community league encourages guests to wear their best wedding attire — wedding gowns, tuxes, bridesmaid dresses, etc. — and engross themselves in the evening’s festivities. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in raffles and a “best-dressed” competition, as well. Oren said the money raised will be used to sponsor other initiatives, events and causes in the community.
3. This fall: The Ragamuffin Parade
The Ragamuffin Parade is returning this upcoming fall season! While no tentative date has been set, Oren said it would coincide with the H. Frank Carey High School’s homecoming parade. Children are encouraged to dress up in costumes and parade around the streets of Franklin Square in this anticipatory celebration of the Halloween season. Oren said the fun isn’t just for the kids, and parents can join the parade in costumes, too! The parade will end in the Garden City South Community Park, where children will have the opportunity to pick pumpkins, parade around the park, and participate in a costume competition judged by local officials. Oren said kids would be given small snacks and goody bags, as well. Check their Facebook page, Community League of Garden City South Inc., for updates!
