Fort Hamilton High School marching band performs at Knicks championship parade
Fort Hamilton High School’s marching band participated in the New York Knicks championship parade in Manhattan last week. Photo: Fort Hamilton High School
BAY RIDGE — The Fort Hamilton High School marching band performed at the New York Knicks Ticker Tape parade on Thursday, becoming a part of sports history.
“It was truly a special opportunity for our students, school and community, and our students did a stellar job,” the school’s principal, Kaye Houlihan, told the Brooklyn Eagle. “Led by co-directors Michael Mulligan and Katie Westerlund, our marching band, along with the flag team and JROTC cadets, was professional from start to finish.
“I was privileged to march with them along with our superintendent, Dr. Noah Angeles, and Deputy Superintendent Matthew Mazzaroppi.”
Fort Hamilton High School’s marching band participated in the New York Knicks championship parade in Manhattan last week. Photo: Fort Hamilton High School
The historic parade was the first in Knicks history, despite winning NBA championships in 1970 and 1973.
The New York Police Department stated that more than 2 million people lined the Canyon of Heroes to catch a glimpse of the players who beat the San Antonio Spurs in five games to win the Larry O’Brien Trophy. Fans were turned away as early as 7:30 a.m. when all viewing pens were full.
“Students were excited to be part of this historical NYC day and made us all proud,” Houlihan said. “I have a new appreciation for the work it takes to perform in a parade, and our students were sharp in their uniforms, stayed in line, played again and again, and remained focused throughout.”
Fort Hamilton High School’s marching band participated in the New York Knicks championship parade in Manhattan last week. Photo: NYC Mayor’s Office
Along with cheering on Knicks stars such as Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns, Tiger pride was in full swing.
“Thank you so much for organizing and the invitation,” wrote Westerlund on Instagram. “An absolute honor! The kids had an amazing time!”
Former Knick and Basketball Hall of Famer Bernard King graduated from Fort Hamilton High School and also attended the parade.
Fort Hamilton High School’s marching band participated in the New York Knicks championship parade in Manhattan last week. Photo: Fort Hamilton High School
On Instagram, NYC Public Schools said, “So proud of our student marching bands — including from Fort Hamilton High School, All-City High School Marching Band, The Sheila Mencher Van Cortlandt School, Hawtree Creek Middle School and Port Richmond High School.”
Supporters online also congratulated the band.
“I heard the Tigers before I saw them marching,” wrote one poster. “Great addition to the exciting parade and day! Go Tigers! Go Fort!”
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
