Governor Andrew Cuomo Turns Out for Southampton Independence Day Parade

SOUTHAMPTON, NY - The crowd that turned out for Southampton Village's annual July 4 parade Monday were delighted to see New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo marching proudly, waving an American flag at cheering onlookers.

According to Southampton Village Mayor Mark Epley, Cuomo has talked about marching in the parade for several years, but this week marked his debut at the annual event.

The governor's brother Chris Cuomo, a television journalist, lives in Southampton, as do other close friends, Epley said.

"He was fun to march with," Epley said, of the governor. "A great guy." Cuomo, he said, asked about issues in the village and town. "He is well-informed about the needs of the East End," Epley said.

Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming, who marched with the group, agreed. "It was great to celebrate the 4th with the governor," she said. "It's no surprise that he was with us. First of all, everyone knows it's a great parade. But besides that, the East End is increasingly important to the Long Island economy."

During Cuomo's visit, Fleming said they were able to discuss important issues. "We talked about how important it is to get it right on the clean water initiatives and I told him that state funding has really been helpful in the county's full court press effort."

Caption, photo 1: Southampton Village Mayor Mark Epley with his granddaughters Hailey Epley and Blake Epley, along with New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo. Courtesy Epley family.

Photo 2: New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo, Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming and other East End elected officials. Photo credit New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo's Flickr page.