It was a school night at Village Hall this past Tuesday, May 22, as friends and family gathered to see Sloatsburg’s Class of 2012 celebrated during the 12th annual Seniors Night of Recognition, sponsored by the Village Board. The event gathered together Sloatsburg students who came through the ranks together at Sloatsburg Elementary School and are now graduating from Suffern High School. Special guest Ron Anagnostis, former principal during the students’ years at elementary school, gave a fond remembrance of highlights from their years together.

Also on the evening’s agenda was a special Village Board tribute to well-known local resident Patty Parker for her community service. Parker’s voice has accompanied many a program throughout the years and Tuesday was no different as she once again filled the room with song.

Special guests included Rockland County Legislator Doug Jobson and Ramapo Central School District Superintendent Douglas Adams — both men addressed the gathering. Jobson’s brief, heartfelt comments reminded the students that they have literally grown up with the digital age and that unknown opportunities await. Dr. Adams commended the students’ achievements but reminded them that there’s still a few weeks of school left and politely requested that not drift away just yet.

The Seniors Recognition day has become a traditional way to send off Sloatsburg students, many who have taken school buses and had classes together since kindergarten. The Village Hall filled with friends and family, making for a cozy standing-room only event.

Anagnostis took the microphone, fit and tan from his days working with students at a Kibbitz, and recalled meeting the assembled students for the first time when they arrived for kindergarden at Sloatsburg Elementary School. He described the rainy morning when the yellow buses pulled up in front of school and, umbrella in hand, he went to greet the kids. He said that as he boarded the first bus, one child started to cry. And then another. And another. So by the time the kids were all lined up and escorted into the building, most were in tears. An auspicious start to their academic years.

Anagnostis then recounted many of the school experiences the students shared throughout their years together, from being the first class to enjoy the school’s brand new playground to their sleep away during Camp Moriah weekend as 5th graders. Every school year had its own rite of passage, from the annual cross country race to Olympic Day, where students compete all across the school grounds, and especially battle during the notorious pizza box race.

When Mr. A asked if anyone remembered who caught the biggest fish at Camp Moriah, the students were momentarily silenced. Then a few voices quietly called it that it was out Sean Lenihan. More voices joined in, shouting Sean, Sean, it was Sean Lenihan.

After Anagnostis’ address, students’ names were called out and those in attendance walked to the front of the room to receive a certificate from Superintendent Adams.

Patty Parker was also honored during the evening with a special acknowledgement and plaque. Parker sang several songs, including There’s A Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere and God Bless America, which closed the ceremony.

The evening’s invocation was given by Fr. Niranjan, pastor of St. Joan of Arc Church while the benedication was given by Pastor Agnes Saffoury of United Methodist Church of Sloatsburg. Carmen Dubaldi, a representative from Assemblywoman Annie Rabbit’s office, was also in attendance as was Bishop George Langberg, who offered a special blessing.