Community Corner
Massapequa Kiwanis Christens New Bocce Courts
Organization holds tournament and honors memory of one of their own.
John J. Burns Park has a new addition and it's going to be christened in a big way.
The Massapequa Kiwanis Club will unveil brand new bocce courts they built for the park Saturday.
The second annual Memorial Bocce Ball Classic will feature live music, tournament play, beer, wine and soda, as well as food from Remo's Italian caterers.
"I tell everyone it's more like an outdoor wedding than a sporting event," said Kiwanis board member Philip Tesoriero.
Despite the festive atmosphere, the tournament will also be bittersweet for Tesoriero as it will be played in memory of former member Anthony Tesoriero, who died in December due to complications from surgery at age 45.
He left a wife and 4-year old daughter.
Philip Tesoriero said his brother "was a great guy and a big supporter of the community.
"He played in the tournament" last year the brother said. "His daughter carried the basket collecting the raffle tickets.
Kiwanis will dedicate a bench on the court to honor Tesoriero and proceeds from the tournament will go to a scholarship fund named in his honor.
Tournament slots have been sold out, but residents are encoraged to come and cheer for their neighbors and take part in raffles and other activities. It gets underway at 11 a.m. Saturday.
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