A Perfect Sunday in the Park

For the first time in many years, the weather was glorious for Summerfest, the annual Labor Day weekend celebration of old-fashioned family fun at Rye Recreation. And what a wonderful 25^th anniversary celebration it was on Sunday, September 2. From 3-5, Judge John Carey, this year’s honoree, watched from the sidelines as children and their families participated in races, tested their skills in various booths, and enjoyed hot dogs and Longford’s ice cream.

The celebration moved into the Damiano Center from 5-7, where the Reddy Valentino Orchestra got guests in the swing before the crowd honored 94-year-old John Carey, who was also a two-term mayor, for his enduring contribution to the City of Rye. 

Veteran Coordinator Mary Edwards was there to talk about the Hudson Valley Honor Flight Program that enables veterans to visit war memorials. Judge Carey, accompanied by his son Doug, will be on that one-day trip to Washington, D.C.

The celebration ended on a high note, with Doug Carey awarding a check from the John Carey Jr. Scholarship Fund to SUNY Purchase junior Kian Gorgorian, who has logged countless hours volunteering at Rye Rec.

• Melanie Cane

John Carey, retired judge and former mayor, taking in the many Summerfest activities .

Assemblyman Steve Otis and State Senator Shelley Mayer congratulating honoree Judge John Carey.