Sun Shines Bright on Deer Park Family Festival

The sun shone down on Deer Park and four days of rides, games, food, music, thrills and spills that drew local residents to the annual Our Lady of the Rosary-Knights of Columbus Carnival and Family Festival.

We’ve had a great turnout all weekend,” said Carmine Saldano, a representative of the Knights of Columbus, early Sunday as Utterflux was setting up. “Hopefully the bands will bring ‘em out.”

Indeed they did. As Utterflux began its set, the size of the crowd swelled visibly and the fun felt more palpable. With Tilt-a-whirl, Zipper, Mouse Trap, Surf City and Fun Slide working overtime, fair-goers got their fill of festival pleasure all Sunday afternnon.

It was all in support of the community causes supported by the Knights of Columbus with the proceeds from the festival -- a forty plus year tradition that the Knights hold to firmly. Proceeds from the carnival go to such organizations as Make-A-Wish, Boys and Girls Club, and services for handicapped.

Helping to improve the 'take' was the donation by bands of their time and talent. "It's all about showing the love," said a member of Utterflux. "It's all about the charity. That's why we came here today. That's why we're performing."