Carnival being planned by community group for Riverside-Flanders this summer

Carnival rides and attractions will be coming to Riverside-Flanders this summer, thanks to the Flanders-Riverside-Northampton Community Association.

The group decided at its meeting last night to host a carnival for the community on the weekend of Thursday, Aug. 11 through Sunday, Aug. 14.

The event will likely take place on the grounds of Phillips Avenue Elementary School if the Riverhead Board of Education approves of the use. Superintendent Nancy Carney liked the idea, FRNCA president Ron Fisher told residents last night at the organization’s monthly meeting.

Fisher said Newton Shows, based in East Northport, will put on the show, consisting of carnival rides and about 10 attractions and games.

“It took some convincing to get them to agree to come here,” Fisher said. The company was reluctant, concerned that there wouldn’t be enough support, he said.

Finding a suitable location proved challenging too, Fisher said. His first choice was Big Duck Ranch, but the ground there isn’t level enough for the rides. Pastor Keith Indovino of Truth Community Church “graciously offered to let us use the church property next door,” Fisher said, but the carnival company representative, who came out to inspect possible sites, was concerned that wasn’t large enough. That’s when they turned to the school property, he said.

“Nancy Carney was great,” Fisher said. She got right back to him on Sunday and said it she’d poll the school board members, then she let him know they supported the idea. “It won’t be officially approved until the 21st,” Fisher said.

The group will offer $5 discount coupons to residents who bring one school supply item for FRNCA’s school supply drive.

It’s very exciting to be able to bring a carnival to the area, Fisher said.

The event will be a fundraiser for the organization, which works on community beautification and other projects, such as supporting the Phillips Avenue Elementary School food pantry.