There are many holiday traditions that take place out of the glare of family living rooms and kitchens. The annual game of lawn football is one of those that plays out in neighborhoods and parks in towns all over the country. A collection of Sloatsburg sons got together Thursday morning for their own friendly but spirited game of football played on the adjoining Lawns of Harmony Hall and the Sloatsburg Public Library.

A Sloatsburg tradition going back to their days in middle school and high school, the guys – many recent graduates of Suffern High School – enjoyed mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine and each other’s company as they passed the morning in competition. Harmony Hall curator Geoff Welch caught the action. No one played as poorly as Mark Sanchez did against the Patriots — no back end banging or flubs or fumbles. Just hard running and passing before an afternoon spent with food, family and friends.

So, with Thanksgiving done and the black days of commercial feasting upon us, remember that it’s the little things that help enrich our lives — like a good game of football with friends.

SloatsburgVillage.com would like to thank all its readers for visiting the site and participating in a bit of community life online. And remember, in the rush to find a good deal at some store out there, don’t forget your local businesses such as BackHome Antiques, Sloatsburg Hardware, Haas Pharmacy, Rococo’s Salon & Boutique, and Sloatsburg Wine & Liquor to name but a few. Both Sloatsburg and Tuxedo have plenty of restaurants and businesses just waiting for you – you could buy a gift for dining at Characters, for example.

If we don’t shop at our local businesses, who will?

One last thought as we all recover from that day of family feasting, friends and fellowship. Remember to give thanks for the little things in life. It is often the small act of kindness — a kiss, smile, word of encouragement — that makes a difference. To paraphrase poet Maya Angelou, a person might forget what you did or said — but we remember how people made us feel. That sticks.

So, as many Sloatsburg sons enjoyed the sunny holiday in camaradarie, following is a message recently received from Sloatsburg resident Tana Maiano, who tragically lost her son William this past August.

“Our Mayor Mr. Wright came to the hospital for my son when he passed and lovingly gave us pie this evening,” she wrote the day before Thanksgiving. “Many thanks Mr. Mayor, and to all of Sloatsburg. Few words, many thanks. I would also like to thank all of the families in Sloatsburg, Hillburn and Suffern. God Bless.”

Photos courtesy of Geoff Welch.