First Annual "Sunday Drive" Fair a Success

Despite the weather-induced cancellation of the parade for last weekend’s Sunday Drive to Lake Ronkonkoma, many community residents dug in their heels and made it out to Raynor Park for the post-parade fair.

The first annual event was organized by Ellyn Okvist of the Lake Ronkonkoma Heritage Association, and was scheduled to include a parade of vintage cars (including and post-1948) from the Hyatt Hotel on Motor Parkway to Lake Ronkonkoma. The route was a nod to William Kissam Vanderbilt, the racing enthusiast who founded Motor Parkway, and the event was organized in celebration of Lake Ronkonkoma’s history.

“We decided to do this to get all of the different groups in our town to come together, to work towards common goals,” Okvist commented. “The biggest of which is the Lake Walk project, which is intended to restore Lake Ronkonkoma to what it should be and deserves.”

The Lake Walk at Ronkonkoma is a proposed project that would feature various attractions around the lake connected by paved walkways and boardwalks. Proponents of the initiative hope that its construction will promote appreciation for the lake’s history and draw attention to preservation efforts.

The Ronkonkoma Fire Department was named the beneficiary of the event, receiving all revenue garnered from concession sales throughout the day. Members volunteered to cook and distribute food and drinks to attendees, starting as early as 11 a.m. and continuing until 4 p.m.

“We’ve got everyone here, from chiefs to EMTs to the Explorers Post, which is our version of the junior fire department,” said David Cook, a lieutenant and chairman of the department’s fundraising committee. “The turnout has been surprisingly good in spite of the weather, and we’ve been doing pretty well in terms of concession sales.”

Although most were deterred by the morning’s heavy rain, a few dedicated vintage car owners made the trek to Raynor Park to show off their automobiles to enthusiastic community members.

Howard Kroplick appeased children and adults alike with both photos and rides in the “Black Beast,” a 1909 Alco racecar with an impressive track record.

“This car raced in 16 major races and won six,” noted Kroplick. “Including the Vanderbilt Cup Races that were held in 1909 and 1910 on Long Island. It also raced in the first Indy 500 race.”

Not to be outdone, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department showcased a semi-antique vehicle of their own.

“We have a 1965 heavy rescue truck here,” said Ken Okvist of the Ronkonkoma Fire Department. “It was one of the first ever on Long Island.”

Other community organizations in attendance at the fair included the Brookhaven Arts and Humanitarians Council, Lake Ronkonkoma Civic Organization, Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society, Boy Scout Troop 91, American Legion, W.S. Commerdinger, Jr. Preservation Society, Lake Ronkonkoma Homemakers Unit 38, Disabled Artists Guild and other local artists.