August 7, 2020

Compliments of Volume 64 | Issue Three FREE

Fire Island’s Longest Running News Source Since 1957 August 7, 2020

INSIDE: AUGUST Lady and the Mermaid FIN in Fresnel Fire Truck Tale Accolades

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com

THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 3

Volume 64 | Issue Three ®

Fire Island’s Longest Running News Source Since 1957 August 7, 2020

IN THIS ISSUE IN EVERY ISSUE 7 INTERVIEW: 22 ADULT COLORING JACKIE GORDON PAGE Mariana Dominguez Lauren Stevens 8 CHIEF LYN AND 13 BOOK REVIEW CHERRY GROVE’S Rita Plush NEW FIRE TRUCK 11 DAY IN THE LIFE Laura Schmidt OF FIRE ISLAND 16 PCLI 2020 Contributed Photos 19 FIFLIX COMMUNITY Hugh O’Brien 21 HISTORY COLUMNS Thomas McGann 9 SALTAIRE 5 LETTER TO THE EDITOR Hugh O’Brien 18 NYC THEATRE 1O OCEAN BEACH AREA Leonard Feigenblatt Joey Macellaro 17 POLICE BLOTTER 12 OCEAN BAY PARK Shoshanna McCollum Barbara Gaby Placilla 15 CHERRY GROVE/ FIRE ISLAND PINES ONLINE Robert Levine THIS ISSUE www.fireisland-news.com > DINING REVIEW: GET BAKED TUESDAYS AT CHERRY GROVE PIZZA Shoshanna McCollum

Cartoons by Eric Pedersen

PUBLISHER...... Craig Low EDITOR...... Shoshanna McCollum MANAGING EDITOR...... Lorna Luniewski REPORTERS...... Mariana Dominguez and Laura Schmidt DESIGN/PRODUCTION...... Pam Gurman for Fat Cat Graphics AD DESIGN...... Joey Macellaro DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR....Emma Boskovski SALES REPRESENTATIVE...... Beth Errico ACCOUNTING...... Mariluz Valdez Founding publisher Jay Garfield Trien and the Official Paper of Record

® FIRE ISLAND NEWS 260 Montauk Highway, Bay Shore, NY 11706 631-583-5345 | [email protected] www.fireisland-news.com

FOR INFORMATION ON ADVERTISING: CALL: 631-583-5345 or EMAIL: [email protected]

www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 4

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 5

LETTER TO THE EDITOR EDITOR’S WINDOW by Shoshanna McCollum In response to “Fallen Idols of erected during The Jim Crow Kennedy, as Attorney General, [email protected] Fire Island (Part 2)” Published era and the KKK Terrorism of went to Roanoke, VA, just a in our July 24, 2020, edition: the 1930s and 40s. decade before, to cut the chains Yes, George Washington, off of the schoolhouse door to I WAS RAISED in Mastic Thomas Jefferson, and perhaps, enable desegregation to occur. Beach, having graduated from my own alma mater, William We have much to do in William Floyd HS in 1967. Floyd, owned slaves. The our country to make this “a I moved to Virginia in 1977. Indentured “servants” in NYC, more perfect Union.” It’s time Quite a difference, indeed. had a similar lot in life, as we to devote our efforts to that. But Virginians do exhibit an experienced the growing pains The South is dealing with its unquestionable pride, in being and desire to make a quick history of white supremacy and the birthplace of America in buck. We should NEVER try to racial injustice. I suggest that 1607, the marked triumph erase our history. If any of you you, up North, capitalize on in Yorktown in 1781, and saw “Hamilton” in the theater the progress you have made, the state who “boasts” the or on Disney+, you witnessed both with immigration AND most number of Presidents. how many “mistakes” were COVID19. I’m so proud to be a Indeed many of our Founding made by our FF’s. No one is New Yorker at heart! The Cone of Fathers hailed from VA. perfect ... Let he who is free Nancy Reichert Keenan Lee surrendered to Grant in from sin, cast the first stone. Hallieford, Virginia Uncertainty Appomattox, VA. And we The statues in the North of can also “boast” that the first William Floyd, a signer of our THE CONE OF UNCERTAINTY describes all the enslaved African Americans Declaration of Independence, To submit your letter to the variables that may arise in the path of a strong storm. came to our shores, at what of George Washington, the editor for consideration, write As I write this Hurricane Isaias is threatening to kick is now Ft. Monroe in 1619 highly respected Father of us at editor@fireisland-news. up. The wind is gaining momentum. I worry that I … something we, like the our country, and of Thomas com. Electronic submissions might not be able to send the final bits and pieces to Germans with the Holocaust, Jefferson, the author of our only, no paper letters please get this paper together if a power outage should occur. are not so very proud of. Declaration, and others who – 350 words or less advised. As we now arrive to the month of August, it I learned very quickly, when fought militarily and politically We reserve the right to edit, occurs to me that we have become quite fatigued by the monument issue came for our freedom, should never abridge, or not publish the cone of uncertainty we have all been living under to the limelight, that in the be minimized. We all learned any letter as we see fit. The for months on end. Some of us have weathered the South, these were not erected different takes on history. Boy opinions expressed in Letters to storm better than others. to memorialize our southern did I learn that when I came the Editor are not necessarily Certainly all the first responders that answered history. Rather, they were south, only to learn that Robert those of Fire Island News. the call to combat a house fire in Dunewood on a hot Saturday afternoon have their own families and stresses, but they rose to the occasion. A few days later Fire Island Lighthouse was vandalized with graffiti, perhaps a sign of someone buckling under pressure. It is in the hard times that we really see who is there to weather the storm by our side, and who is simply a fair weather friend. In this issue we learn the story about one Long Island woman running for congress, a former fire chief who now has a truck named in her honor, and the legacy of a physicist who helped guide countless wayward ships safely to port.

CORRECTION: Robert Sherman’s cover photo on our July 24, 2020, issue misidentified the young man riding the skateboard as Holden King, when it was in fact Holden’s friend, Matt Servin. Sorry boys, the masks must have confused us!

ON THE COVER: Martha Morgan with a striped bass weighing 24 pounds and measuring 36 inches she caught after surfcasting off the coast of Cherry Grove on Oct. 27, 1979. Photo courtesy of Diance Quero

www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 6

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 7

INTERVIEW >> by Mariana Dominguez

A Conversation with Jackie Gordon

“No woman has ever represented where I’m able to help, and think I can was just an essay contest at the point. Suffolk County in the U.S. House be productive, and of service – then I And I really breathed new life into it. of Representatives. This could now will step into that arena.” When I left the town board we prob- change,” wrote Karl Grossman in ably had regular communication with his July 24, 2020, column in this FIN: You were the first black wom- over 2,000 veterans in the town. We publication. Copiague resident Jackie an to sit on the Babylon Town Coun- had several events throughout the en- Gordon defeated Patricia Maher cil, and if elected you would be the tire year and the biggest was of course in the Democratic primary for U.S. first woman to represent New York’s the Wounded Warrior Project soldier House New York District 2, which Second Congressional District in the ride, which over my 10 years we were includes the western portion of Fire House of Representatives. Do you able to raise over a million dollars to Island. She was a lieutenant colonel consciously think about these types help wounded veterans, and over the in the U.S. Army Reserve, a combat of firsts? last five or six years, 50 percent of the veteran, and spent three decades Jackie Gordon, NY Second Congressional JG: Everyday. As an educator I know money that we raised stayed here on working as a public school teacher District Democratic Nominee. that you must have examples in order Long Island to help veterans here. So, and guidance counselor. She left her to learn. We show a student an exam- I’m really proud of that. seat on the Babylon Town Board, ple of her problem. If it’s math, and The other program that I’m real- which she held from 2007, to run for the question is one plus one. You show ly proud of is an internship program the House seat. and was impacted by Hurricane San- an example to show that the action is that Janice Tinsley James started and dy, and we know climate change is attainable, so if we don’t have exam- when she left the town she asked me real. All of their issues are my priority ples in society children can’t imagine if I would be willing to continue it. It’s Fire Island News (FIN): Why are when I get to Washington. it. I know my role as the first Afri- a minority internship program where you running for Congress? can American battalion commander high school students of color living in Jackie Gordon (JG): I am running FIN: How has the experience of in my unit was important. Janice Tins- underserved communities have the op- for Congress because I am motivated campaigning in the time of corona- ley James was actually the first African portunity to work in town government. by the same reason I joined the Army. virus been? American voted to the town board. She The town does not fund this program, There was an Army commercial when JG: It is not what I expected. Cam- was elected town clerk in 1999, but not so we have to raise funds because it is I was 20 years old, when I was study- paigning as a councilwoman is some- a voting board member. I became the a paid internship program that’s run in ing to become a teacher, that said, ‘We what different to this federal campaign. first voting member of the town board the summer. This summer it was can- do more by 9 a.m. than most people This is my first time running [for Con- in 2007. That young girls, particularly celed because of COVID. do all day.’ And I’ve lived my life by gress] and we were just about to start young women of color, see an exam- those same principles – working hard our field program, really going out into ple of a position that they can aspire to FIN: Any final words or thoughts and doing more. I think we need more the district in a strategic fashion and be – it becomes more real. Diversity is for our readers? from Washington. Washington isn’t then COVID hit. We switched to a vir- important. A fruit salad with all apples JG: I joined the army when I was 20 working for us and I think our rep- tual platform. In the military we adapt is pretty boring. years old and from that point I have resentatives need to work for us. We and overcome and we work with what continually served others. I look for- need Washington to come together and we have so that’s what we’ve done and FIN: What was your proudest ac- ward to continuing that legacy of pub- work together. we’ve been able to be successful using complishment while serving on the lic service as a member of Congress. this virtual platform. Babylon Town Council? Voters in the district are really excit- FIN: What do you believe is the big- JG: Well, I have two. When I got ed to have me as their representative, gest issue facing Long Islanders FIN: Speaking of the military, what there, there was a veterans’ advisory but I don’t think half as excited as I am today? would you say was the most import- board but it was kind of flat. There was to represent them as a member of the JG: There is a plethora of issues. For ant lesson you learned that would not a lot happening with it. In fact, it House of Representatives.” many voters healthcare is important – help you in Congress? the cost of healthcare, the accessibil- Gordon: I would say those values that ity to that affordable healthcare, the my parents taught me that we codified cost of prescription drugs, the possi- in the military. Like integrity, trust, bility of not being able to get afford- intestinal fortitude, selfless service. able healthcare if you have preexisting Those are the lenses that I will look conditions. A veteran just called me through when I’m in Congress. last week about an issue. Long Island has the largest concentration of veter- FIN: When and how did you de- ans in New York State. There are a lot cide public service was the path you of Vietnam veterans in the district and wanted to take? they still have issues with Agent Or- JG: There was no specific point. I ange and other issues coming out of joined the military when I was 20, but that era. So, when I speak to veterans, prior to that I’ve always been a helper. their issues are the priority for them. I’ve always been involved with orga- We have working families. We have nizations. In college I was involved in parents with school-aged children so student government, and NYPIRG. I education is important to them. Most think my walk in life has led me to this Cartoon by Eric Pedersen of the district is on the South Shore place where when I see an opportunity

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 8

Chief Lyn and Cherry Grove’s New Fire Truck By Laura Schmidt

CHERRY GROVE FIRE DEPARTMENT unveiled its new uniquely designed First Response Vehicle/ Engine, dedicated to influential former Fire Chief Lyn Hutton. In 2015, to navigate Cherry Grove’s narrow, unpaved boardwalks, CGFD partnered with Nev- ille Apparatus of New Hyde Park to design a cus- tom compact engine capable of safely maneuvering the town. That engine was dedicated in memory of Chief George Oakley. Last year, the Board of Fire Commissioners agreed to retire a 40 plus-year-old Photo by Robert Levine engine to purchase another and name it “Lyn.” Lyn Hutton, a New York native, now-retired successor, George Oakley, and then worked with teacher and coach, started frequenting Cherry Grove young women interested in the fire service through with friends in the 1970s, and joined the all-volun- Phoenix Firecamp in upstate New York. teer Fire Department in 1976, becoming one of the “I was chief [when I taught at Phoenix Firecamp] few women in the fire service at the time. Coinci- and they really highly prized that uniform because dentally, that same year when parents came in with Hutton participated in the their little girls and let them maiden voyage of what go to camp for the week, would become the Inva- here was a full-fledged sion of the Pines, to stand chief in full uniform to in solidarity with two drag greet them,” Hutton said. queens who were refused “So they saw that women service at a restaurant in had a place and they could the Pines. go to the top in the fire ser- After three years of vol- vice. It wasn’t just a part- unteering and proving her time thing.” Lyn Hutton. CGFD/David Gersten & Associates abilities, Hutton became Hutton dealt with her assistant fire chief, and then the department’s first share of sexism as fire chief but always approached female fire chief from 1980 to 1994. She attribut- such situations with a calm demeanor and respect. ed her success at CGFD to many years as a physical She recalled an incident in the 1980s, when a fire education teacher and coach of field hockey, softball occurred and the homeowner said, “I had a chimney and synchronized swimming as well as constantly fire and all that arrived on the truck was a woman in attending seminars, classes and lectures about fire a nightgown,” Hutton recalled. She asked the gen- service to broaden her knowledge. tleman, “Would you rather nobody responded?” and “I took every opportunity to learn everything I emphasized that her firefighters should not be treat- could and it did pay off,” Hutton said. “[As a coach,] ed any differently because of their gender. I was the leader, the trainer, the administrator for the “He agreed and we’ve been really friendly with team and I just transferred all that to my position in that man ever since,” Hutton said. “You have to treat the fire department ... and it worked very well for people with respect to help make them understand.” many, many, many years.” Hutton felt “very honored” to have the new en- CGFD prides itself in being one of the only fire gine dedicated to her but strongly credits success to departments in New York State with 50 percent fe- her fellow volunteers. male volunteers but it hadn’t always been so accept- “As I stated many times, and I’ll say it again ing. Hutton said at least one male volunteer left after every time I get a chance, I just led a team,” she she was elected fire chief and others “tolerated it or said. “The team did the work. Those are the ones gained a little respect, I don’t know.” who let me lead and took the training. They worked Current Fire Chief Craig Williams sees Hutton hard, they gained respect through their actions and I as a trailblazing and passionate educator who ef- didn’t do it alone.” fectively taught volunteers and residents alike. She While teaching volunteers how to drive the un- also was instrumental in creating a welcoming envi- usual fire engine, Hutton said many people strug- ronment for other women to volunteer. gled with sharp turns and a former firefighter once “Cherry Grove has a long history of very strong went off the boardwalk, which wasn’t out of the or- and wonderful leadership from females that is very dinary. Hutton recalled making the woman get back abnormal in fire service, in general, until just recent- on and drive it home. ly,” Williams said. “Somebody falls off the horse, you make them After stepping down as fire chief in 1994, Hutton get on … if somebody gets hit in the shin with a continued to work as assistant chief for a few years, hockey ball, you make them stay in the game,” she helped as a training officer, showed the ropes to her said. “That’s the way we handled those boardwalks.”

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 9

SALTAIRE SALTAIRE SUMMERY by Hugh O’Brien

2020 JUST WON’T let up. Virus, economic implo- hold tennis tournaments with scores sion, shark attacks and now a tropical storm, and it’s of spectators mostly masked if not still only August. What’s next? Besides a canceled duly distanced. The Village contin- presidential election, I mean. In brief, it’s not a normal ues working to resolve several both- year, something not quite everyone seems to appreci- ersome matters, from ferries and fall ate. Still, compromise, understanding and community planning to e-bikes and e-lections, spirit can work wonders. Or so they tell me. all to help safeguard our health, Immersed in that spirit, the SCA is contributing safety and quality of life in diffi- its might and mite by doing what it can to keep Sal- cult times. In short, most Saltairians taire Saltaire. On Saturday, Aug. 8 (rain date Aug. 9), are coping and doing their bit for all they’ll host the annual sandcastle contest, between and sundry. Broadway and Pacific, with judging beginning at 1 And for those yet complaining p.m. (With the justice courts closed, this may be the about missing a game or activity, re- only judging you’ll see around these parts for quite member that sometimes others suf- some time.) Next Saturday (Aug. 15), they’re spon- SVFC members Christine Schiff, Maddy Medenica, Josh Raeben, Jar- fer real losses. Last weekend our soring the second bay and ocean beach clean-ups of rod Bernstein and Joey Rappaport look surprisingly cheerful at their Village Treasurer, Donna Lyudmer, the summer, with the pick-ups’ kick-offs starting at 6 a.m. beach boot camp. Trainer Jim Lambert (kneeling) seems to have saw her house partially destroyed by 10 a.m. from their respective Broadway redoubts. a better idea of what’s about to go down. Photo by Pauline Oudin fire; fortunately the fire departments’ Best of all, the organization’s recruited folks who’ve quick response saved most of the been nurturing Monarch butterfly habitats the last Meantime Ms. Kate is achieving small won- family’s home and possessions, but it was nonethe- few weeks. The caterpillars will shortly morph into ders with her library, as is Molly Davis with her re- less a traumatic event and it’ll be some time before their flutter-by form, winging about the village be- sourceful camp program; attendance is strong and their home is made livable again. The Lyudmers are fore swinging down to Mexico for the winter. This’ll the programs imaginative. (To view their calendars, fine, they’re all set, resilient and with a positive out- add a spark of color and life to a summer sorely in go to saltaire.org and click the appropriate links.) look. Beacons, and putting things into perspective, need of both. Can’t wait. The playground’s open, and the Club’s managing to for the rest of us. THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 10

OCEAN BEACH AREA by Joey Macellaro

IN A BEACH COMMUNITY like ours, lifeguards building and sharing through McCartney added that attendance has play a vital role. Nick Stertz, chief of surf rescue for Zoom,” said Ed Schecter of been consistent with other churches in the Village of Ocean Beach, has been inspiring not Fire Island Synagogue, refer- his diocese at around 40 percent of the only his team of 25 guards this season, but the com- encing the popular videocon- standard. munity at large. ferencing application. He add- The Free Union Church has dis- “We’ve had lifeguards at the water’s edge to pass ed that around 10 members of continued the Sign of Peace as well, along information the last few years and have add- the congregation are now typi- which would normally involve mem- ed medical scouts this season,” said Stertz. “It’s been cally attending each Friday and bers of the congregation shaking a nice community touch point.” Local residents also Saturday service, and that com- hands with one another, and modified have reacted positively to Stertz’ recent online com- bined with virtual and in-per- services to allow for social distanc- munity bulletin board posts highlighting surf condi- son attendance has been sim- ing. The interdenominational Chris- tions, members of his staff, and timely inspiration- ilar to that of previous years tian church gathered outside on the al quotes. thanks to out-of-towners that church grounds for one Sunday wor- Stertz and his team have been donning protective join via Zoom and would typ- ship service in July. masks when speaking with beachgoers. He said the ically be unable to attend. Like Free Union and Our Lady of Baylee Scharf and Celia Reschke, number of rescues this season is on track to be sim- “Two things that would be both senior lifeguards, pose with the Magnificat, Fire Island Minyan ilar to that of last year, with continued frequent use immediately noticeable to peo- a board highlighting Ocean Beach orthodox synagogue in Seaview has of red torpedo buoys for swimmers in distress and ple are that we have omitted surf conditions. Photo courtesy of been conducting limited on-premises about 20 full-fledged drowning rescues annually. He the Sign of Peace,” said Rev. Nick Stertz services only. noted that he has seen a notable increase in the num- John McCartney of Our Lady I hope to see you at the Ocean ber of large groups of teenagers on the beach this of the Magnificat Roman Catholic Church, in ref- Beach Community Fund’s Art on the Block event, season, possibly an effect of decreased employment erence to modifications to Mass this year, “and we on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – a re- opportunities due to COVID-19. distribute Holy Communion following the end of vamped version of our annual art show brought to Like the lifeguards, our local houses of worship Mass” instead of midway through. Processions you by the Ocean Beach Community Fund, who will have had to make some adaptations this season. through the church also have been discontinued, and compile a walking tour map so we can still enjoy this “For the most part, we now have three members priests now have use of a hand-sanitizing station in favorite event safely with friends and neighbors. of clergy and one lay person running services in the case they need to come in contact with parishioners. Stay safe, and keep smiling. THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 11 Day in the Life of Fire Island Reader Contributed Photographs View Out Our Windows “Set wide the window. Let me drink the day.” —Edith Wharton

Lonelyville by Jo Ann Wanamaker.

Hopper dredge view by Lauren Chenault.

Robert Sherman’s window, Seaview.

Osprey’s view by Lorna Luniewski.

Interested in having your photo published in A Day in the Life of Fire Island? Email us at [email protected] and we will consider it. Please limit submission to six images per news cycle, in jpeg format. NOTE: Any submitted drone images must comply with FAA regulations concerning their use within national park jurisdiction, while posing no risk to pedes- trians, wildlife, or property in taking said image. Fire Island News reserves the right not to publish any photograph we suspect is in violation of these rules – and always be respectful of nature and the local wildlife when taking Sandcastle window by Rachelle King. nature pictures outdoors. Thank you!

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 12

OCEAN BAY PARK by Barbara Gaby Placilla

IT’S AUGUST AND IN any other year we would be I wish I did not have to write about saying that we are “hitting the home stretch.” Those the passing of two long time Ocean Bay who see the glass as half empty bemoan the fact that Park residents – Steve Knopp of Mich- summer has reached the halfway point and dread igan Street and Susan Abrahams of that it’s coming to an end. While those of us who Ocean Bay Boulevard. Two people from see the glass as half full look forward to all that Au- entirely different generations and back- gust has to offer: too many tomatoes to eat, warmer grounds, yet both had the same deep love water in the ocean, gardens in full bloom. This year of Fire Island. Steve was a retired airline the COVID-19 pandemic has turned all that upside pilot, who was one of the original volley- down and at this point do we even know what the ball players. He spent over 50 summers home stretch should be? Will things ever go back to in Ocean Bay Park with his wife, Marki. normal? And what exactly is normal now? Susan Abrahams was impossible not to Despite the pandemic, life in Ocean Bay Park has like. I never saw that woman without adjusted as best is possible and at times the silence a broad smile on her face. Her annual is somewhat deafening! People are going about their birthday party always spilled over onto daily activities, staying within their COVID circles the road and turned into a block party. and hoping that it is all over sooner rather than later. Sitting in the boat on the bay: Angelo Sakonas and She was my backyard neighbor and it The beach is crowded but most people are follow- granddaughter, Sofia Borges. Photo by Rachelle King was not unusual to hear Susan and her ing the guidelines and staying the recommended 6 houseguests enjoying the hot tub on feet apart. A sad commentary is that discarded face The Seaview ballfield has not seen any real soft- a cold winter night. One night over 20 years ago, masks now litter the roads replacing those ubiqui- ball games, but I did come upon a father and his two Susan, her father, Jack, Bob Pols, and I snuck onto a tous white paper pizza plates. sons celebrating opening day of the MLB mini sea- neighbor’s roof deck and stayed up all night to watch I do feel that Mother Nature has overcompen- son with their own impromptu game. Glad they were the Perseids meteor showers. I like to think that she sated because this year the vitex are such a vibrant Yankees fans! In the morning, there is a group that is now one of those shooting stars blazing bright but purple, it is impossible not to be in awe. At times has set up their own family run day camp, complete gone too soon. Rest in Peace both Steve and Susan; the color is almost blinding. Could this be her small with games and an exercise maze. which just proves you are missed. consolation for an otherwise lost summer? that people are adapting and making the best of it. Stay well, stay safe and PLEASE wear a mask! THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 13

BOOK REVIEW >> by Rita Plush

“Rónán and the Mermaid: A Tale of Old Ireland” golden hair,” who sang him We need fairy tales and legends to- to safety and brought him day. We need books that take children By Marianne McShane to the monks. away from their plugged-in digital Juvenile Fiction Ages 5-8, Brother Declan observes world and into their creative minds Grades K-3 Rónán on a hilltop, en- and the rich world of fancy and possi- Illustrated by Jordi Solano tranced by the song of a bility. These types of tales also impart Candlewick Press blackbird and sitting for real-world lessons wrapped in a story long hours listening to the (Ronan works hard till he finds what seals. “And so he gave he is looking for). WHAT DO AN AUTHOR from Ire- him the gift of music: a Youngsters will learn from this book land and an artist from Spain have harp he fashioned himself, while they don’t even know they’re to do with Fire Island? Consider the made from hazel wood and learning. There are the merfolk (mer- sea and its mysteries for starters, and strung with silver.” When maids and mermen), and the “selk- see where they take you in Marianne he played, “music filled the ies, seal people who could shed their McShane’s “Rónán and the Mermaid: air, pure and sweet as the skins on full-moon nights and take on A Tale of Old Ireland,” beautifully il- peal of crystal bells.” The human shape.” There’s the currach, lustrated by Jordi Solano. seals came on the sands to a Scottish/Irish word for a boat pro- A retired librarian and contemporary listen, the blackbirds sang in pelled with a paddle, that Rónán rows Irish seanchaí, or storyteller, McShane the treetops, but Rónán only out to sea. draws from a historical text dating wanted the song of the mer- Though the publisher recommends back to 558 C.E. to give young readers depending on the time of day. The sub- maid. Then one night… the book for ages 5 through 8, grades an old Irish tale set on the same east- dued and muddied tones fit the text, I don’t want to spoil the ending, but K-3, there is enjoyment here for older ern coast of Ireland where this story is which centers on a group of holy men I will say that music is a key player children too. You’re never too old for said to have originally taken place, and who find a young boy washed up on here, its healing powers and the plea- a fairy tale. where she now lives. the shore “among a circle of seals … sure it brings, the way it can open our And down at the beach some ear- “Long ago in Ireland, when fairy folk wisps of seaweed tangled in his hair, hearts. And I liked coming upon it as ly evening, if you listen closely, you dwelt in the hills, and merfolk swam and his eyes closed tight.” As the boy a theme in a children’s book. Sing a might hear the strings of Rónán’s harp in the seas, saints and holy men lived gets back his strength and spends more song with your youngster, or make one calling to the mermaid. Perhaps on in beehive huts dotted along lonely time outside, the colors of the country- up, spread the pleasure. Mermaid Monday. shores,” begins the ancient legend. side echo his regained health and shift The tone has the thoughtful quality to clearer greens and blues. of a tale well and often told, giving In an early spread of two facing pag- the legend an in-the-moment immedi- es, the monks’ tonsured heads bend acy, and the reader the feeling of being to the boy asleep in their hut and the

RONAN AND THE MERMAID. Text copyright © 2020 by Marianne McShane. Illustrations copyright © 2020 by Jordi Solano. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA. told the story, rather than reading it in “silver ring [that] glistened in his out- a book. stretched hand.” They care for Rónán Some of those pages are bordered, and string his silver ring on a linen resembling handwritten illuminated cord and fasten it around his neck medieval scripts. The artist’s deft use for safekeeping. They tell him stories of pencil, watercolor, and digital me- about the seal people, the selkies, and dia capture the monks in their hooded the legend of a mermaid who roamed robes in a palette of earthy browns and the seas for 300 years. Rónán believes rust, the sea gray/blue or rose beige, it is this mermaid, the “lady with

www.fireisland-news.com

THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 15

CHERRY GROVE / FIRE ISLAND PINES ROSE’S VIEW by Robert Levine

IT’S AUGUST. WE ARE having a strange, slow Frank McCarthy, Martha Mor- Beach on the same night. Victo- moving, and unusual summer. Fewer and smaller gan and Nick Marzi – all now ria Falls, Davita Jones, Androg- dinner parties; no fundraisers or cocktail parties; less passed. Nick taught Joan Van yny, Brenda Dharlng, Frieda gatherings at the bars, restaurants or at home; and no Ness how to fish. Mark Atten Lay and others joined Ariel – shows at the Community House. We are getting used and Clyde Oakley are still fish- all wearing caftans – including to a simpler lifestyle in Cherry Grove and The Pines. ing. Many times we were invit- Shoshanna. She sailed home It is fine for those who like a quiet lifestyle, but I pre- ed to Marge and Sasha’s for a with them on Fire Island Wa- fer action. fresh fish dinner. ter Taxi. I heard it was a spir- When Cherry Grove was a fledgling new commu- In the 1960s, my bayside ited ride, and Scott Hirsch met nity in the 1920s, there was no electricity or running neighbor Sonny Harmsworth them all at The Island Mermaid water. People arrived from Sayville and other local lived in London, and worked most cordially. parts. It was a little village where people relaxed and for Harmsworth Press. He spent A new fire truck joined the did practically nothing all weekend. Eventually the every day in September fishing. Cherry Grove Fire Department bungalows were sold. People who had an old porch, We have a new group: Carpen- fleet on Saturday, Aug.1, named a house, a barn, a store or other existing structure ter Summers, Lee Sharmat and in honor of our first female fire would float them over to the island on a barge. My Sharon and Michele Schneider. chief, Lyn Hutton, who served house was originally a gas station office. The Grove They are not only catching fish, Joan Van Ness and Frank McCarthy as CGFD Chief from 1980- began to develop. but ridding the bay of harmful returning with their catch of the day. 1994. Attendance was respect- A popular pastime back then was fishing in the debris, like old traps and fishing Photo courtesy of Joan Van Ness able, including Brookhaven bay or ocean for pleasure as well as dinner. Years poles. A pod of dolphins was Councilman Neil Foley. The ago I recall sitting on my bayfront deck to see people seen off the beach at the end of July. Maybe it is a group was at the dock to greet the truck, barged on in the bay clamming. We had devoted fisherwomen sign of hopeful things. a ferry, with whistles, horns, sirens and cheering. A like the late Marge Cozzalino, Annie and Rosie who Fire Island News Editor Shoshanna McCollum small reception was held at the firehouse where they fished in the bay. joined Jay Robinson, Michael Fitzgerald and me for served Prosecco and cold drinks. Lyn, who lives in Others went surfcasting by the ocean quite often. a wonderful dinner at Cherry Grove Pizza. Ariel Sin- North Carolina these days, was not able to attend the Among them were Bob Younger, George Oakley, clair hosted bingo at The Island Mermaid in Ocean ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic. THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 16

PCLI 2020: Fire Island News Takes Home Four Media Awards

AMONG THE MANY THINGS that the COVID-19 time, Boskovski anticipated how critically import- pandemic has disrupted, Press Club Long Island ant streaming meeting forums would become only (PCLI) had to cancel their Media Awards celebra- months down the road. tions this year. However without fanfare or anticipa- McCollum also won an additional Media Award tion, they quietly announced this year’s winners of as a guest contributor with Islip Bulletin, winning this most coveted regional journalism prize on Mon- Second Place in the Opinion category for her essay, day, July 20, and Fire Island News took home four entitled “When Deer News Breaks,” published on awards this year as follows: June 13, 2019. • Editor Shoshanna McCollum and reporter Founded in 1974, PCLI is a chapter of the Soci- Emma Boskovski share a Third Place Best Head- these are our first two awards achieved in the break- ety of Professional Journalists. It is devoted to pro- line award for “Building with a Bird’s Eye View on ing news category. tecting and advocating for First Amendment rights, Long Island,” which was published on the Fire Is- “It’s great that we keep winning accolades,” said furthering ethical standards and providing ongoing land News website on March 6, 2019. This is the sec- FIN Publisher Craig Low. “Also it’s interesting how training for members. Usually held in the late spring, ond headline category award this Fire Island News many of our awarded articles were published off-sea- their annual Media Awards is one of their crown jew- has won. son. This really highlights our emerging presence as el events to showcase the achievements of Long Is- • Emma Boskovski also won a Third Place award a true year round publication on Fire Island.” land journalists, students and veterans alike. They in the Government & Politics category for her article Boskovski won numerous student-level PCLI made the decision to cancel this year’s ceremony on “Fire Island Meetings Online: One Reporter’s Expe- awards while attending Bay Shore High School. June 19, citing “an abundance of caution due to the rience,” published in our print edition on Aug. 30, She is presently a news editor of The Lamron, col- coronavirus pandemic,” and switched the announce- 2019. It is the first award this publication has man- lege newspaper of SUNY Geneseo, where she is ments to a digital online platform. aged to achieve in this important category. an undergraduate entering senior year. “Fire Island While much uncertainty for the future remains • McCollum also takes home Second and Third Meetings Online: One Reporter’s Experience” not prevalent, journalists will continue to document our Place in the Breaking News category with her Jan. only won her recognition on the professional lev- world in ways both large and small, and organiza- 29, 2019, article “FINS Plans First Phase of Deer el, but her article achieved results. Village of Ocean tions like PCLI will endure as a source of support. Culling,” and her “Special Report: Ice Palace Con- Beach took immediate steps to improve public ac- demned,” released on May 9, 2019. Both articles cess to live streaming village hall meetings after its To learn more, visit PCLI.org and follow @PCLI on were published on the Fire Island News website, and publication – and while we did not know it at the social media.

Fat Cat Graphics www.fatcatgraphics.com

FRESH IDEAS NOTHING CANNED

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 17

POLICE BLOTTER >> by Shoshanna McCollum

Wanton Wrongdoing at Windswept Structure Fire in Dunewood Ocean Beach › Summons issued to Jonathan Bloom of Great River for illegal Police mooring and water skiing. A SMOKY FIRE VISIBLE for miles along the beach, as well on the › other side of the bay, broke out on Saturday afternoon, July 25, in the JULY 15 Property reported as stolen from Bambootique. community of Dunewood. Fair Harbor Fire Department Chief Brendan › Lifeguards called for police assis- › Disturbance is reported at Magu- Reynolds confirmed it was a structure fire on Sandpiper Walk that tance as people were blocking ire’s at 7:35 p.m. was responded to at approximately 1 p.m. Dunewood is one of the access to beach overpass at › Kids reported on the roof of Wind- communities under protection of the Fair Harbor Fire District. Kismet, Cottage Walk. swept at 6:30 p.m. Saltaire, Ocean Beach, and Ocean Bay Park were among the neighboring JULY 16 › A customer dispute is reported at fire departments to lend mutual aid. It took about two hours to contain the › Discharged fireworks reported on Castaways at 9:49 p.m. fire, according to Reynolds, with no injuries reported. “We had 87 paramedics on site from various departments to monitor beach at 4:36 a.m. JULY 26 › Chief Hesse takes fraud report so the vitals of our firefighters in that horrible heat,” said Reynolds. “My › A phone-in complaint of a golf cart homeowner may file a claim. people looked like they came out of a sauna by the end of it.” parked on someone’s property with- While temperatures were upwards of 90 degrees on that sultry Satur- JULY 18 out permission is received at 1 a.m. day afternoon, Reynolds still says conditions were fortunate because it › Larceny reported at Bocce Beach, › A kayaker in distress is reported in was daytime and the fire was reported quickly, which saved the house. disturbance at Windswept, trespass the bay near Seaview at 3:59 p.m. The fire is believed to have started in a storage closet or shed where there at Surfview, and another distur- JULY 29 was a common wall shared with the main part of the residence. bance at Island Mermaid all report- › Complaints of bikes blocking “There is plenty of water and smoke damage but the structure is still ed between the hours of 6 to access to Bungalow Walk beach sound,” Reynolds added. “With great interdepartmental communication 11:50 p.m. overpass is received at 2:45 p.m. and cooperation we got this one under control quickly.” JULY 19 › Multiple complaints of fireworks The blotter indicates regular checks being discharged in vicinity of throughout commercial district to Ocean Road are reported at ensure restaurants are in compli- 12:11 a.m. ance with state andlocal COVID-19 › Property is reported as stolen from regulations. the freight dock at 1:37 p.m. Also over this period 31 open contain- JULY 23 er summonses issued, eight automat- › Illegal docking reported behind ic alarms reported, four additional Windswept at 8:02 p.m. disturbance incidents, one lost dog reported, one domestic incident inves- JULY 24 tigated, three garbage complaints › Open fire reported on Cottage Walk received, two summonses issued for at 9:15 p.m. littering, three reports of neighborhood › A broken Window reported at trouble, 15 noise complaints received, Windswept at 11:36 p.m. four summonses issued for failure to wear mask/social distance, and four JULY 25 bikes and one cart reported as stolen. › Illegal boat docking reported at Windswept 12:23 p.m. A criminal charge is an accusation, and defendants are presumed innocent Photo courtesy of Alexander Odood unless proven guilty.

Fire Island Lighthouse Vandalized with Graffiti LESS THAN ONE WEEK after reopening to the property over a short span of time. Similar abuses are taking place in national public after the COVID-19 lockdown, Fire Island “There have been six acts of vandalism to Park parks across the country, according to a July 22, Lighthouse was defaced with graffiti on Monday, property over a period of 10 days,” said Romero in 2020, article in Time, as they experience visitor July 27, 2020. Animated response on our Face- a telephone conversation. “Our public bathrooms surges during the COVID-19 pandemic, with lit- book page mirrored the sadness and outrage our have been defaced, two stop signs were tagged, tering, garbage dumping, and stepping off trails readership felt by this action. and one of our vessels, even a part of the Find Your on foot or with off-road vehicles are some of the Since this incident is an open and ongoing Park frame was sawed off. This is actually the sec- litany of problems described. investigation by National Park Service (NPS) ond tagging incident to the lighthouse, another one “We are working with Suffolk County to catch law enforcement, Fire Island National Seashore had showed up earlier in the day.” the perpetrator or perpetrators as well as revisit- (FINS) could only share limited details about Romero did not discuss what any of the graffi- ing how we do things,” added Romero. “If you see the crime with this publication. However FINS ti said, whether authorities believed the incidents something report it to FINS or call 911, but don’t put Superintendent Alexcy Romero did reveal that were related, or if any security camera footage is yourself in an unsafe situation. People care about this is but one of several destructive acts to NPS being examined in connection with the incidents. this landmark and don’t want to see it destroyed.”

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 18

NYC THEATRE >> by Leonard Feigenblatt

Virtual Broadway and More

SINCE MARCH 12, all our outlets for live enter- the month of June, they pivoted their donations to The pair has done a wonderful job and were the tainment, theatre, concerts, opera, ballet, cabaret and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.) first, but many followed. movies (on a large screen at the theatre) have been As the days turned into weeks and now months, Jim Caruso virtually hosts Cast Party at Birdland, shut down. This has led to a new form of entertain- Rudetsky and Wesley do their shows just once a day, featuring Broadway and cabaret singers performing. ment, virtual streaming. Platform programs such as except for Saturdays and Sundays when they still do Now called Pajama Cast Party, it is on every Monday Streamyard and Zoom, practically unheard of prior two. On Saturday afternoons, they offer Plays in the night. Caruso also produces a show featuring Broad- to the pandemic, are now widely used. House, a play presented virtually. On Sunday after- way actress and comedienne Julie Halston, and Events that were annually held live have now noons, they present Plays in the House Jr., virtu- special guests. For more information and to watch turned to virtual streaming including Broadway al plays and skits intended for a younger audience, past episodes, go to the cast party network on the Barks, the Obie Awards, Broadway Bares and the Fire featuring young actors. To check the schedule, donate YouTube page. Island Dance Festival. On March 16, Seth Rudetsky to the Actor’s Prolific producer Scott Siegel, who presents and his husband, James Wesley, began a twice a Fund and view shows all over town, including Feinstein’s/54 day virtual streaming show, Below, Merkin Hall and Town Hall, also has gone titled Stars in the House. It is virtual. He presents and hosts Scott Siegel’s Amer- a benefit for the Actor’s Fund, ican Songbook and so far has presented seven a wonderful organization that editions. He has a GoFundMe page where all contri- not only helps actors in need, butions go to the singers. To watch past episodes, but everyone in the perform- find out about future episodes or contribute go ing arts and entertainment to siegelpresents.com. nationally. To date, they have These are just a few of the many streaming options raised more than $400,000 and past episodes (the Plays available. A daily list of free streaming choices is counting. (It should be noted and Plays Jr. are only avail- available on timeout.com. Until we are able to once that in response to the Black able online for four days) again gather safely and watch performances live, at Lives Matter movement, for go to starsinthehouse.com. least we have virtual streaming for entertainment.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 19

FIFLIX >> by Hugh O’Brien Brett King: Ocean Beach to Hollywood

FIRE ISLAND IS well Corps Officer Rob- known as a getaway spot ert Ryan’s loyal for actors. Yet only one, lieutenant in “Fly- whose centennial we ing Leathernecks,” mark this year, could call murderous racke- it his birthplace: Brett teer Ryan’s equally King, a little-remem- murderous broth- bered but fine actor born er in “The Rack- Bertell Wadsworth King, et” – in all of which Brett King in “Jesse James Jr., in Ocean Beach on vs. the Daltons” (1954), he was quite effec- Dec. 29, 1920. his only film lead. Photo: tive. His other films King’s father, nick- 50plusworld.com included a couple named Buzz, was a ma- of comedies (“Fa- rine surveyor, sportsman and early ther Makes Good,” “The Big Hang- aviator. After completing his educa- over”) and a superior soap (“Payment tion, the younger King studied acting on Demand”). at the American Theatre Wing before Then there was his lone lead role, joining the Army Air Corps in World “Jesse James vs. the Daltons.” This War II, where his service earned him was King’s only big-screen western, a Purple Heart and the Distinguished a curious fact as this was the genre Flying Cross. Returning to civilian that would become his bread-and- life, and changing his first name to butter when, good movie roles failing the more macho-sounding “Brett,” to materialize, he turned permanent- King resumed his theatrical training ly to TV after 1954. Never given his before moving to Hollywood in 1949 own show, King guest-starred steadi- to begin an extensive film and televi- ly on nearly four dozen series through sion career. the late 60s, mainly westerns such as King appeared in only 13 films, all “The Roy Rogers Show,” “Lawman,” but one shot between 1949 and 1951, “Yancy Derringer,” “Death Valley with the last – his only lead – in 1954. Days,” “The Life and Legend of Wy- He then turned to television, the me- att Earp,” “Bat Masterson,” “Gun- dium in which he’d appear continual- smoke,” “Laramie,” “Wagon Train” ly until his retirement. and “The Virginian.” His movie work was mainly in Away from the saddle, he ap- supporting roles, in films ranging peared on “Highway Patrol,” “The from major productions to B pictures, Millionaire,” “Dragnet,” “Rescue 8,” working variously at MGM, RKO, “Whirlybirds,” “Men Into Space” and Columbia, Warner Bros. and low-bud- the final two episodes of “The Green get Monogram. He appeared oppo- Hornet,” after which he left the busi- site major stars such as John Wayne, ness. In 1968, he and his wife, Sha- Robert Mitchum, Robert Ryan, Bet- ron, developed the successful (and te Davis, Van Johnson and Elizabeth still operating) Coral Sands Hotel in Taylor, among many others. Harbour Island, Bahamas. Brett King With his rugged yet darkly hand- died of leukemia in Palm Beach on some looks he was most often cast in Jan. 14, 1998, at 77, leaving a legacy action pictures: crime dramas (“Side of family, service and success … and Street,” “State Penitentiary,” “The of bringing enjoyment to millions Racket”), a crime comedy (“Accord- who never knew his name. ing to Mrs. Hoyle”), and five war films (“Battleground,” “Operation Pacific,” “A Yank in Korea,” “Flying Leather- necks,” “Purple Heart Diary”). He regularly bounced between he- roic and villainous roles – Marine Air

Cartoon by Eric Pedersen

www.fireisland-news.com

THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 21

HISTORY >> by Thomas McGann

Fresnel Lens – The Invention That Saved a Million Ships

LONG ISLAND IS HOME to some 20 odd lighthouses. Montauk Point Light was the first built, but Fire Island Light is the tallest at 168 feet (with 182 steps – but who’s counting) and is 50 feet higher than her sister out at Montauk. In addition to Fire Island’s lighthouse itself with its stunning 360-degree views from the gallery platform at its top, the compound also boasts a museum and gift shop in the converted Lighthouse Keepers quarters. Not to be overlooked is the Fresnel lens housed in a spectacular building built specifically for its display. The Fresnel lens was the “soul of the lighthouse,” a 16-foot high, pineapple-shaped lens that focused the light rays from the lantern room atop the tower, through heavy glass panels called storm panes, out to sea. Often called “the invention that saved a million ships,” this marvel of a lens is an invention of the French physicist Augustin-Jean Fresnel (1788-1827). Fresnel was fascinated by light and spent his short life developing theories on its propagation. His research in optics, specifically the wave the- ory of light, overshadowed even Isaac Newton. But it is the Fresnel lens for which he is mostly remembered. There was a need for some sort of lens to concen- Historical actor Joseph Smith in character as Augustin- Jean Fresnel at a performance at the Fire Island Light- trate the rays of light into a single beam that could be house Lens Building in 2017. seen at great distances by ships navigating off shore. Photo by Shoshanna McCollum In 1819, the French Commission of Lighthouses asked scientists for possible improvements in lighthouse illumination. Several scientists tinkered with on their application. Augustin-Jean Fresnel died of the idea, but it was Fresnel’s design of a thin, light- tuberculosis on Bastille Day at age 39. weight lens in the form of a multi-part unit mounted Fresnel remains one of the geniuses associated in a frame that changed history. His idea was an ar- with the likes of Isaac Newton, Christiaan Huygnes, ray of prisms, arranged in a circle, each ground to a and Blaise Pascal. His name is one of 72 engraved different angle. This collected disparate rays and fo- on the base of the Eiffel Tower. Several features on cused them into a single beam. Additionally, his de- the moon have also been named after him. One of his sign of multiple lenses with large apertures and short contemporaries, Humphrey Lloyd, provost of Trinity focal lengths enabled its construction using much College, Dublin, described his work as “the noblest less material than previous designs. fabric which has ever adorned the domain of phys- His first prototype, which he called “lenses by ical science, Newton’s system of the universe alone steps,” so impressed the commission that he was as- excepted.” Fresnel was granted the Royal Society’s signed to produce a full-scale version. A year later, Rumford Medal on his deathbed. in 1821, an official test of his newest light was wit- The current Fire Island Lighthouse was outfitted nessed by Louis XVIII and his entourage from 32 with a state-of-the-art revolving first-order Fresnel kilometers away, and was so impressive that the fol- lens upon its completion in 1858, and it remained in lowing summer the world’s first lighthouse equipped operation until the U.S Coast Guard placed on ex- with a Fresnel lens was lit. tended loan it to Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute in Fresnel continued his lighthouse work despite 1933. For 75 years it was the first light sighted by the fragility of his health (he had started coughing millions of immigrants reaching America’s shores. up blood). He resigned from numerous projects on Aug. 7 is National Lighthouse Day, an opportune which he had been working to concentrate on lens- occasion to come see Fire Island’s own famous light- es for lighthouses which, at this point, he considered house. After a long closure due to the coronavirus it his most important work. Fresnel designed six sizes is again open to the public. Don’t forget to visit the of lenses divided into four orders determined by size Fresnel lens during your visit. We are on the cusp of and focal length. The largest were called first-order celebrating its first decade anniversary of its right- lenses. He also laid out a map for 51 lighthouses, and ful return back home on display at Fire Island Light- lesser lights, using lenses of varying sizes depending house grounds in 2011... A story to be continued!

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • August 7, 2020 • PAGE 22

ADULT COLORING PAGE >> by Lauren Stevens Kickin Back with Mother Nature