Intermittent rain could not stop Teaneck’s first Unity Day, which went on as scheduled and promised, rain or shine, on Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

Between 3,500-4,000 persons gathered at the Richard Rodda Center and the adjacent southern end of Votee Park to enjoy ethnic food, kiddie rides, local vendors and dozens of informational tables set up by various Teaneck organizations and not-for- profits.

"Unity Day was a great success," said Mayor Elie Y. Katz. "This event showed one of the best sides of Teaneck, where the different groups and organizations got to mingle in a nice, relaxed, social and entertaining environment while residents learned about the different organizations that make up the wonderful Township of Teaneck."

Unity Day had been in planning for more than six months.   Although a similar event celebrating Teaneck’s diversity had been held in Votee Park in the early 1990s, none had been presented since. Katz said he looks forward to making the day an annual event.

"This was the first year and it was definitely a learning experience. Next year we will do it ten times better," he said.

The inspiration for Unity Day came from a successful Muslim Day in Votee Park last year that was open to the entire community.  The Eid Committee of Bergen County organized the former event and was one of the original sponsors of Unity Day. The Puffin Foundation was also a major sponsor and underwrote much of the expenses.

Tables set up by community organization were set up along the perimeter of the Rodda Center gym. Several religious groups maintained adjacent tables, promoting Katz to remark, "Where else but in Teaneck would you find churches, a synagogue and a Buddhist Temple sharing space next to each other?"

One of the highlights of the day was a panel moderated by Katz consisting of three former Teaneck Mayors reminiscing about their experiences. Former mayors Frank Hall, Jacqueline Kates and Eleanor Kieliszek spoke about changes in Teaneck and highlights of their administrations, which spanned almost 20 years.

Katz said that he attempted to have all six living former mayors present. But Paul Ostrow and Peter Bower were unable to attend and John Abraham has moved out of the area.