Clear blue skies and a crisp autumn breeze served as a perfect backdrop when the Jericho school district community took to the streets on Saturday, Oct. 23 for what may have been the largest Homecoming parade ever. This year's parade, entitled the Century in Review, highlighted each decade of the 1900s in preparation for the turn of the century. Even more important was the enormous amount of community spirit shown for a very special cause.

Jericho students of all ages, under the leadership of the High School Student Council, decided to turn this year's parade into a Walk-A-Thon for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a non-profit organization that grants wishes to children with terminal or life-threatening illnesses.

The Walk-A-Thon was designated as Jericho's FutureCorps Project, FutureCorps, sponsored by Newsday, is the largest youth-generated public service project ever undertaken in this region. Over 127 school districts have signed up to participate in this venture. The Jericho Homecoming Parade/Walk-A-Thon was the inaugural event for FutureCorps.

An incredible array of colorful and creative floats, throngs of enthusiastic children, parents and faculty members, the Jericho High School Marching Band, cheerleaders and flag twirlers followed the banners of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and FutureCorps down the parade route.

Members of the Jericho Volunteer Fire Department, in gleaming red and white fire trucks, supported community spirit by eagerly participating in the parade. The Jericho Auxiliary Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mal Tarkin, did a fine job of ensuring the safety of marchers during the parade. Officers were also on duty throughout Homecoming Weekend, providing smooth traffic control and diligent supervision, to guarantee a successful event. "The district appreciates the dedication of both the fire and police departments," said Jericho High School Principal Arnold Goldstein. "Our community is not complete without their presence."

Z100's Greg T., the "round-headed frat boy," also joined the parade with other members of the hit radio station. "Z100's Greg T., Scotty B., Tim Louie and Scary Jones have been incredibly supportive of many activities in Jericho," explained Student Council President Andrew Goldfarb. "Students truly appreciate their involvement and commitment to community service. Their presence surely added to the overwhelming success of events."

The Jericho High School Varsity football team faced off against Locust Valley for the annual Homecoming football game. Mike Mitkowski recovered a fumble and returned the ball 25 yards for a touchdown. Quarterback Patrick Palaganas ran around the right end for a two-point conversion. The final score was Locust Valley 28, Jericho 8. "The determination of these fine young men is truly commendable," said Varsity Coach Scott Andrews.

Contributions are still being accepted from the Saturday Walk-A-Thon. Donations to the Make-A-Wish Foundation can be mailed to: Make-A-Wish of Metro New York, 85 Old West Shore Road, Port Washington, NY 11050-2224. Include a notation about the Jericho Homecoming.