What is currently known as Ronkonkoma Beach is in fact the former location of the Hollywood Beach Pavilion, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY. I, as a young man, patronized the Pavilion in the Fifties and Sixties.
History repeats itself, as my Daughter Carol, a member of the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce, and owner of the "Liberty Tax Service," invites her parents to attend a Clam Bake/ BBQ, at the former location of the "Hollywood Beach Pavilion," now called "Ronkonkoma Beach."
A smile appeared on my daughters face when she realized that she had inadvertently invited her father to a treasured location of his youth. My daughter is too young to have seen the Pavilion, but she did see the glow on my face as I basked in the Sun on what I consider to be "Hallowed Ground." Actually the weather was overcast, with rain showers. I was unable to see the clouds or feel the rain, because the "Spirit of times past," would only allow me to see the sunshine, and feel the sand beneath my feet!.
Surrounded by younger "Sachemites," a few of the attendees were wearing Red and Gold Sachem T - Shirts "How cool is that!" I actually met a Sachem Alumna from the Class of 1967.
The actions of the "Spirit of times past," once again prodded me, in effect telling me that I should look around for more signs from my past. Yep! The spirit was right, the event was catered by none other than "Bruno's."
"Bruno's," has been and still is an integral part of Ronkonkoma culture and history. In the Sixties and Seventies everyone from my crowd "hung-out" at Bruno's. Reminiscent of the "English Pub," Bruno's has for decades functioned not only as a prominent pub, restaurant, and caterer; but also as the de facto social headquarters of Ronkonkoma.
The "Spirit of times past," has shown me that the wonderful people and places of Ronkonkoma have not changed, but continue to thrive!
My thanks to the Ronkonkoma Chamber of commerce, for having this wonderful event, on July 8, 2011. It appears that this event may be annual; where can I buy the tickets for next year's event?
