Earth Day celebration at West Hills County Park draws record community turnout

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin hosted the 3rd Annual Earth Day on April 18 at West Hills County Park in Melville, drawing more than 500 attendees and over 40 organizations and vendors.

On April 18, Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin hosted the 3rd Annual Earth Day Celebration at West Hills County Park in Melville. The event drew more than 500 community members and featured participation from over 40 organizations and vendors. In partnership with the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association and the West Hills Neighbors Civic Association, the day combined family-friendly activities with hands-on environmental learning. Organizers framed the celebration as an expanded version of prior years and emphasized free, accessible recreation for families. What happened: - The event took place April 18 at West Hills County Park in Melville. - It was hosted by Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin with partners the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association and the West Hills Neighbors Civic Association. - More than 500 people attended and over 40 organizations and vendors participated. - Activities included face painting, a horse show, interactive games, and hands-on educational experiences. - Organizers noted the event offered free, accessible outdoor recreation at a time of rising costs. Summary: The record turnout highlighted local interest in environmental education and community-centered programming, and organizers described the day as the largest to date for the celebration. Undetermined at this time.