The final parade to show support for essential workers, first responders and health care workers will take place Thursday, May 7 at 6 p.m., starting at Newark-Wayne Community Hospital.
“It is moving to see how much this community cares,” said Mayor Jonathan Taylor. “To honor the essential workers and the dedicated citizens who have shown their support through the nightly parade, the Newark Police Department, the Newark, Marbletown and Fairville Fire Departments, and the Newark-Arcadia Volunteer Ambulance (NAVA) will also be participating in the final parade.”
The parades started as a way to support those keeping people safe and healthy during the pandemic, and grew into a nightly celebration of community.
Ayasha Wood, parade leader said, “It has been a pleasure guiding Horns many nights. I am an essential worker and I wanted to show fellow essential workers gratitude and support, and show those that could not get out during these times that we care and that they have not been forgotten.”
“The parades each night were a great way to show these health care workers, all essential workers in fact, that their efforts were not only noticed, but treasured and valued. We could not have managed without them,” said Assemblyman Brian Manktelow. “Even though the parades will end Thursday, there are other ways that we can continue to let these frontline workers know they are appreciated. Offer to buy them a meal, provide someone with a store gift card, or simply say thank you when you encounter a person you know is a health care worker or other frontline worker.”
“Everyone at Newark-Wayne Community Hospital has been touched and inspired by the ongoing show of support from our community,” remarked Dustin Riccio, M.D. president of Rochester Regional Health’s eastern region. “During this uniquely challenging time, people have sent food, supplies, funds, thank you cards and well wishes. This parade has been a heartwarming extension of that genuine kindness and solidarity. We are so grateful. I can’t imagine a more fitting time than right now – as we recognize National Nurses Week and Health System Week – to have one final celebratory parade.”
Riccio also emphasized that while the curve appears to have flattened for the moment, and local hospitals are beginning to restart services, the community needs to continue practicing social distancing, masking in public, and other important habits that are helping to minimize the spread of COVID-19.
“As things start to reopen, we all need to continue to do our part to make sure they reopen safely. In doing this, we support essential workers, first responders and each other,” Riccio added.
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