By Sabina Cardali
Welcome to the Point. The Point being College Point.
It was truly an inspirational Memorial Service in MacNeil Park in College Point. More than 2,200 patriotic people and children attended to pay homage to the members of the FDNY, NYPD, EMT and the volunteers lost in the World Trade Center disaster. My husband, Rocco and I were grateful for the chance to chair this event so that so many could express their feelings to these very sad happenings.
The parade of the colors were brought in by Commander of the American Legion Robert Lewis followed by Boy Scout Troop No. 18 with a huge American flag. Rev. Carl Rosenblum of the First Reformed Church and the wonderful First Reformed Church Choir led the audience in song, starting with the Star Spangled Banner.
Tribute to the victims and dedicated rescue workers by the school children were led by P.S. 129’s Michelle Newcomb and David Newcomb, P.S. 29’s Adriana Coppola, Lauren McGrade, St. Paul’s School’s Nicholas Santagato, Melanie Nagibe, St. John’s School’s Paul Knudsen and Mark Budenholzer.
Student Michelle Newcomb wrote “How I Feel About The Tragedy” — “Boom! Crash! The sound the planes made when they crashed into the World Trade Center. Many people ran, they ran for their lives. Thousands trapped and killed under the rubble. Firemen, Policemen, Rescue Workers, all came to peoples aid. Many of them were killed. We hang our flags for the people who serve our country in remembrance of the people who were killed. We stand together as one nation, a United Nation.”
Student Shadai Deepan wrote, “The World Trade Center” — “The dark cloud surrounded; what a tragedy! They hit our famous twin towers the third highest skyscraper. With panic, sinking hearts and lights out, came a rumbling street and the crumbling towers. Everywhere sounded loud in mourn, help, help, help. In a blink came rushing the NYPD, FDNY and the EMTs as if into a tornado and a dark, clouded universe. One of America’s treasured and most prized buildings, suddenly raged into enormous orange-red fire balls. Thousands of heroes snap in to rescue lives. Unfortunately, some vanished with the Angel of Death. But others were fortunate to have a guardian angel. Help scramble them out to let the tale be told. And bring hope and courage to endure the evil. Now we are left to mourn and grieve, to flow the tear as babies. To hear the cries of precious ones. As the ocean waves echo.”
“From Across The Water,” by Danielle Clark – “Still the tears roll down my face as I look at the skyline’s empty space. I used to sit here and write a poem gazing out at the city – my home sweet home. And now the towers stand no more, but we stand united to fight this war. My heart, my mind, my world’s been tossed by the terrorism and the lives we lost. To all those who grieve, my heart goes out. We mourn as a nation without a doubt. To all the bravest who were not afraid to risk their lives – what a price they paid. To all the rescue and recovery crews — where would we be if it weren’t for you? You’ve worked so hard night and day with tears in your eyes, doing what it is you all do best. To have you among us we are truly blessed Our nation today is filled with sorrow, but infinite justice will prevail tomorrow. Make no mistake, they will suffer the wrath. There’s nowhere to hide or stay out of our path. When we come knocking at your door the only thing settled will be the score. To all those affected by the attack on World Trade: The good Lord keep you. Be not afraid.”
“New York” by Laura Connick of Ireland — “New York, New York you looked so grand, for all the world to grace. But terrorists from another land have destroyed your pretty face. The world stood in silence, as the news was told and read, that hijacked planes were on attack from out of Hell. Who they were, only time could tell. The Twin Towers were the first to fall, bringing death and destruction to one and all. The President of America, he prayed to God for all. And he asked the Lord for mercy and help him in his call. The day passed and many cried, for their loved ones who have gone to a better land above the rising sun. God Bless America.”
Congressman Joseph Crowley, State Senator Frank Padavan, Councilman Michael Abel each gave a wonderful homage. Two fire engines from Company 130 and 144 attended up to the time they had to leave on a call. Police Precinct 109 was also represented.
Special thanks to Sean McCormack, daughter Taylor McCormack, and Erik Mater for bringing their 15-foot-by-24-foot American flag and set it up, and to Coner McGuirk for his wonderful music.
Special thank you to Myra Burke, president of Queens Surface for the use of two buses and drivers Robert Graziano and Ronnie Bennett. Also special thank you to Steve Coppolino for the use of his flat-bed and driver.
Thank you to Committee members Fred Mazzarello, Bob Lewis, Bill Lewis, and sponsors CP Security Patrol, CP Board of Trade, CP Memorial Day Parade Com., American Legion Post 853, K. Of C. St. Ambrose Council 1463, CP Post 885 VFW, Anchor Lodge 729 & CP Civic / Taxpayers Association.
The Columbiettes, president Maryann Nevins, and the Remiszewski family hosted a Soup and Sandwich Night to benefit the NYPD and NYFD Widows and Chidren’s Fund.
These restaurants and stores in College Point and Whitestone are thanked for their contributions: Cafe My Way, College Point Diner, Franklin’s Printing, K&M Deli, Minuteman Press, Offset Printing, Ralph’s Deli. Salumeria, Stevie’s Coffee Shop. Personal donations from: Dawn Pechette, Kathy and Ricky Reiter, Maria and Donald Remiszewski. And of course, thanks to the Cadets Troop 4011 from St. Mel’s who served: Sarah Smith, Nicolette Emmino, Ellen Mansour.
Congratulations to Troop 18, BSA who celebrated their Family Night with a distribution of special badges by Scoutmaster Ed Petersen. Troop 18 meets every Thursday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at St. Fidelis.
