The Deer Park community came out in force for the homecoming parade on Oct. 21, filling the streets from John F. Kennedy Intermediate School to the high school with a sea of proud maroon and white. Leading the way was grand marshal Tony Martinez, a managing partner of Texas Roadhouse.

After arriving at Al Centamore Football Field, the crowd was addressed by Martinez, principal Charles Cobb and Superintendent Eva J. Demyen. Also serving as a guest speaker was Babylon Town Clerk Carol Quirk, whose three sons are Deer Park alumni.

“The kids walking on this field are the most important people,” said Quirk. “I’m proud to be here representing the town, and homecoming shows that Deer Park is strong, not only today but tomorrow.”

The speakers soon ceded center stage to an array of exciting performances by the marching band, the step team, the high school and middle school kickline teams, and cheerleaders from the high school, middle school and PAL.

In the pre-game finale, Alan Korsiak and Kaylee Houlahan were crowned as homecoming king and queen, congratulated by the remaining members of the homecoming court: Daniela Cornelia, Kasey Dorney, Tara Hentze, Evan Mallon, Anthony Pascal and Josh Pismeny.

The varsity football Falcons came out strong in the homecoming game against Smithtown East, driving to a 14-0 lead after two quarters and holding on for a decisive 26-14 victory over the Bulls. Falcons quarterback Derrick Toledo passed for 124 yards and three touchdowns, Vincent Tavella rushed for 136 yards and a touchdown, and receiver Rayshion Bienaise caught four receptions for 120 yards and two touchdowns.

At halftime, the freshman class was chosen as the winner of the float competition for their excitingly aquatic “Nemo”-themed construction.