Greek Independence Parade Rescheduled For April 22

In response to Mayor Michael Bloomberg's request for organizations to curtail outdoor activities because of the high winds and storm conditions, unprecedented for 20 years, that beset New York City on Sunday April 15, and in response to the many schools and churches marching with young kids, the decision was made to reschedule the Greek Independence Day Parade from April 15 to April 22 at 2 p.m. The Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York has been working with the Mayor's Office to provide the proper parade-related services for next Sunday, April 22, beginning at 2 pm.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to members of the Greek community but not rescheduling may create a dangerous situation for the tens of thousands marching and participating. We want to avoid any potential incidents that would create public risk," Nick Diamantidis, president of the Federation, and John Catsimatidis, parade chairman, said in a statement issued April 15.

Given the record number of 56 floats participating in this year's parade and the gale force winds predicted, this unprecedented decision was mandated by paramount interest for public safety.

The New York City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) monitored the storm with the National Weather Service. The powerful, and potentially dangerous, coastal storm impacted New York City on Sunday. While the exact track and intensity of the storm were uncertain at the time Federation officials made their decision, heavy rain, strong winds and coastal flooding battered the tri-state area from early Sunday morning through Monday. Governor Eliot Spitzer also urged all organizations to curtail their outdoor activities. A statement released by OEM Commissioner Joseph F. Bruno said: "All New Yorkers, especially those living in coastal areas, should take steps to prepare themselves and their families for this storm."

During any powerful storm, such as the one that brought about the parade cancellation this past Sunday, OEM strongly urges New Yorkers to remain indoors. For anyone who must go out:

+ Never touch or go near down power lines, even if you think they are safe.

+ When outside, remember floods are deceptive. Try to avoid flooded areas, and don't attempt to walk across stretches of flood waters more than knee deep.

+ Do NOT drive through flooded areas. Parts of the road may already be washed out, and you could become stranded or trapped.

Additionally, residents of the following lowlying, coastal areas should be sure to heed all storm warnings:

+ Queens: Rockaway, Broad Channel, Howard Beach and West Hamilton Beach, Whitestone.

+ The Bronx: Edgewater Park, Silver Beach, Locust Point, Classon Point, Throgs Neck.

+ Brooklyn: Coney Island, Brighton Beach, Manhattan Beach, Sheepshead Bay.

+ Manhattan: Financial District, entire FDR Drive vicinity, Lower East Side.

+ Staten Island: New Dorp Beach, Oakwood Beach, Foxwood Beach, Great Kills and Tottenville.

For more information about the parade postponement, call 718-204-6500. For any emergencies, call 311.