Food, fun and frolic West Enders celebrate community

      From around the corner and just down the street, residents of Rockville Centre's West End came together to celebrate their community last Saturday. And from all accounts, the first annual West End Day was a success.
      Coordinator Patrick Morris said he couldn't have asked for better weather or support from the village. Morris, director of the Rockville Centre Martin Luther King Jr. Center, said he came up with the idea out of a desire to give the minority residents of Rockville Centre their own celebration.
      Tykes like Nahjae Ricks, 3, and Ishmael Spurll, 4, found themselves running from game to game throughout the day. They bounced, slid and crawled over inflated rides provided by the Village Recreation Department. Nahjae was especially fond of the free pony rides.
      Teens played basketball and many people enjoyed the free food.
      Morris said he hopes to make West End Day an annual tradition. He was recognized by several politicians, including Mayor Eugene Murray, for his efforts in organizing the event.