North Country Road Middle School Marches For ALS Awareness
July 4, 2006
Even though Port Jefferson, Long Island, New York already puts itself on the map with its beautiful marine showcases and ferry transportation to Bridgeport, CT, it seems to give itself a new name of “being recognized” by means of the annual Fourth of July Parade. It gives the ever-growing crowds an eyeful of beautiful antique cars, fire engines, and wonderful examples of patriotism. Only one thing has been different for the past two parades…the ALS/Ride for Life has been involved in it.
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Bob, a 7th grader at the North Country Road Middle School in Miller Place. After hearing Mr Pendergast speak at our school, I knew I had to do something to help. I originated the idea and worked to get the Ride included in the Parade. My school helped me and we did it!
These past two years, the 4th of July has been a time of excitement, joy, and anticipation leading up to the parade.
(Click photo for a larger view)
Last year’s first Ride parade was very successful, as we handed out over 500 buttons and flyers to the public that crowded the sidelines. This year was an EVEN BIGGER SUCCESS!
In 2005, 15 people came out (including Ride president Christopher Pendergast) to march in the parade. This year, we had more than twice the amount of marchers. This year’s total of marchers was 31, many from my junior high school. We gave out well over 700 items of ALS-awareness items, including flyers/pamphlets, buttons, and bracelets. We even tossed Ride t-shirts to the cheering crowds.
Another ALS patient, besides Mr. Pendergast, also joined in the march. Casey Banks and his family marched with us, as well as the family of Michael Beier, who, as you may know, passed away from ALS a few years ago.
I think that this year’s March for a Cure was a big success. Many parade spectators seemed to connect on what a major well-known disease ALS is, and the fact that a cure is needed. We are looking forward to next year’s parade.
