Threat of Heavy Rain Cancels Bronxville's Memorial Day Parade; See Photos of Weekend Events

By Carol P. Bartold
Jun. 1, 2016: A stretch of at least ten years, according to Mayor Mary Marvin, of sunny spring and summer-like weather for Memorial Day in Bronxville came to an end this year when rains from Tropical Depression Bonnie reached the Northeast Sunday night into Monday and the decision was made to cancel the day's planned activities.
Village officials made the call at approximately 7:30 pm on Sunday to cancel Monday's parade and commemoration and sent out a SwiftReach message to alert residents and participants. "I was beyond sad we had to make that decision," said Marvin. "I am hoping we can recognize our veterans at another venue in the near future."
"The parade and remembrance events are very special and the village did not make the decision lightly," added Village Administrator Jim Palmer. He stated further that, after much deliberation and evaluation of the weather forecast, the village officials determined they were not able to ensure a safe and enjoyable event. "We thought it prudent to make the decision early enough so that all participants could plan accordingly," Palmer said. "We look forward to having our grand marshal, Donald Gray, lead the events next year."
The Bronxville School PTA, however, dodged the doubtful weather bullet with its evening Family Country Fair held on Friday instead of Monday after the ceremonies on the school's front lawn. Faced with the possibility of Hayes Field's being occupied with the Federal Emergency Management Agency Midland Valley Drainage Project's initial construction work, the PTA decided to modify its usual Memorial Day Monday carnival and change its location.
A carnival, a petting zoo, an art tent for kids, sports games, and a DJ, along with several food trucks and other dinner options, were all part of the Family Country Fair.
During the week leading up to the Memorial Day weekend, the events that help make the holiday the biggest celebration of the year in the village took place--the Bronco apparel sale, used-book sale, cupcake café, and dollar raffle. Wednesday evening saw a first-ever yoga block party, hosted by the Bronxville Chamber of Commerce and led by instructors from Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary, in Leonard Morange Square. The PTA held spring socials on Friday evening at select Bronxville homes.
Saturday saw two popular Memorial Day weekend events: the James E. Kearney Run for Fun, which followed a 2.5-mile route through village neighborhoods, and the dog parade.
To see photos of village and area residents participating in the Memorial Day weekend events, click here: Memorial Day Weekend in Bronxville 2016.
Pictured here: Bronxville community beginning the celebration of Memorial Day weekend at the Family Country Fair on the front lawn of The Bronxville School.
Photo above by A. Warner; photos in link by A. Warner and N. Bower







