Compliments of Volume 62 | Issue Four FREE

Fire Island’s Longest Running News Source since 1957 July 6, 2018

INSIDE: The Fourth Woodhull Ghost Ship Cat Man on Fire Island Graduation “Coimbra SS” Documentary

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THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 3

Volume 62 | Issue Four EDITOR’S WINDOW by Shoshanna McCollum [email protected]

Fire Island’s Longest Running News Source since 1957 July 6, 2018

38 READY FOR THE IN THIS ISSUE FUTURE: WOODHULL IN EVERY ISSUE 9 KEEP FAMILIES GRADUATION 2018 35 ADULT COLORING PAGE Anika Lanser TOGETHER PROTEST IN Lauren Stevens FAIR HARBOR 46 OBITUARY: 4 AROUND & ABOUT Anika Lanser MARGALIT LIKE: 39 ADVICE COLUMN 11 ROUNDTABLE 1925-2018 Camille Mercogliano DISCUSSION ON FI 46 BRIANNA’S LAW PUSHES 40 BOOK REVIEW ARCHIVE COLLECTIONS FOR INCREASED Rita Plush Shoshanna McCollum BOATER SAFETY 50 BUSINESS DIRECTORY Independence 12 EXIT INTERVIEW: Anika Lanser JASON BENDICKSEN 22 CALENDAR WITH FOURTH OF JULY still fresh in our hearts, it is Anika Lanser Lorna Luniewski our pleasure to share with you the best of the best from 54 DAY IN THE LIFE the great summer holiday, and how we celebrate it on 15 SALTAIRE MEETING COMMUNITY OF FIRE ISLAND Fire Island. Please check out our Around & About color 6/30/18 Reader Contributed Photos page spread giving you the highlights, courtesy of our Emma Boskovski photographers Lauren Chenault, Sean Fitzthum, and of COLUMNS 24 DINING REVIEW: 19 TAKING A STAND 13 KISMET THE BLUE WHALE course Robert Sherman who covered the Invasion of AT THE OBA Bradlee White Robert Levine Fire Island Pines – a crown jewel event for this island. Danielle Lipiec Have patience for our diligent community columnists, 14 SALTAIRE 42 ENVIRONMENT for their deadline was earlier in the week, so additional 25 “CAT MAN” Karl Grossman Hugh O’Brien coverage will most certainly follow. Three cheers for DOCUMENTARY 16 ATLANTIQUE 37 EYE ON FI some really clever graphics in this issue thanks to our PREMIERES IN OB Timothy Bolger Anika Lanser Kirsten Corssen designer Pamela Gurman – keep your eye out for them throughout this issue. 17 OCEAN BAY PARK 45 HEALTH & WELLNESS 26 THE PERFECTION Donnie DeSanti Barbara Placilla Beyond the pretty pictures, give a read to articles OF PHRAGMITES 47 HISTORY that resonate why Independence Day is so important. R.W. Fischer 18 OCEAN BEACH AREA Thomas McGann Lorna Luniewski writes an intriguing history article that Joey Macellaro brings to light that gays in the military are nothing new, 33 DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL: 8 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FRIEDRICH WILHEM 20 CHERRY GROVE and the American Revolution perhaps could not have VON STEUBEN & THE Robert Levine 44 NYC THEATRE been won without their valuable contributions. Anika Leonard Feigenblatt AMERICAN REVOLUTION 21 FIRE ISLAND PINES Lanser interviewed an outgoing local elected official Lorna Luniewski Robert Levine 49 POLICE BLOTTER who reflects modestly on the contributions he made to Timothy Bolger the community. Also by Anika, read about one woman’s 34 LIGHTHOUSE ART SHOW & Danielle Lipiec Cartoons by Eric Pedersen quest to make improved boater safety legislation a reality OPENS WITH VERVE in the State of . There is even a story about Laura Schmidt 7 SHOPPING AROUND men and women sitting in a room and pontificating for 41 SYBIL SEZ 36 “COIMBRA SS” Sybil Bruncheon an hour and a half about whether they want concrete or INVESTIGATION wooden walkways in their village, as Emma Boskovski Danielle Lipiec reports with stunning detail. Be it sweeping gestures or small nuances, this is what democratic society is all about ladies and gentlemen. However let’s not forget that men and women have often PUBLISHER...... Craig Low made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve it. As journalists, EDITOR...... Shoshanna McCollum FIRE ISLAND NEWS the Capital Gazette tragedy of June 28 was felt by all MANAGING EDITOR...... Lorna Luniewski of us at Fire Island News. I think columnist Tim Bolger 260 REPORTERS...... Emma Boskovski, perhaps said it best in a Twitter post he put out that Bay Shore, New York 11706 Anika Lanser, Danielle Lipiec evening: “Local journalists aren’t war correspondents. and Lauren Schmidt 631-583-5345 Most danger we face are paper cuts, sharp reader PHOTOGRAPHERS...... Lauren Chenault, [email protected] comments, layoffs or lawsuit threats if you’re doing your Sean Fitzthum, James Hardy www.fireisland-news.com job right and afflicting the comfortable. The new normal and Robert Sherman isn’t normal. But pens are still mightier than swords.” DESIGN/PRODUCTION...... Coree Chambers Our independence is precious folks, let’s not be too and Pamela Gurman for casual or careless with it! Fat Cat Graphics AD DESIGN...... Joey Macellaro ON THE COVER: OPERATIONS COORDINATOR ..... Erin Ilchuk Photo by DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR .... Emma Boskovski Susan Kravitz SALES REPRESENTATIVES...... Bessi Dion and Beth Errico ACCOUNTING...... Mariluz Valdez Our very own Rose Levine, Founding publisher Jay Garfield Trien and the Official Paper of Record Homecoming Queen of Cherry Grove 2018, at the FOR INFORMATION ON ADVERTISING: Suggestions and comments helm of the heading CALL: 631-583-5345 are important to us! to the annual Invasion or EMAIL: [email protected] Please share how you feel of the Pines, with Panzi looking on.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 4

AROUND & ABOUT >>

FIRE ISLAND PINES INVASION By Johnny “Boardwalk” Burke – Photos by Robert Sherman

JULY 4, 2018: Well, folks, despite stifling heat, tropical humidity, and even a “rolling” black-out, Cherry Grove still rolled out its proverbial red carpet for the 43rd Annual Invasion of The Pines, a tradition started by drag-icon Panzi and a handful of her LGBTQ pals to thwart the homophobia that existed even among fellow-gays back in the 1970s here on Fire Island… Can you imagine? The invasion always takes place on the Fourth of July with the cooperation of the Sayville Ferry Service, which provides a super-sized boat for some super-sized gals to make the trip. The Fairy- Ferry takes off for a D-Day landing (“D” for Drag!) at the Pines pier right outside the Blue Whale, the famously infamous restaurant where male-model John Whyte (an old-school homosexual) first began his Fire Island real estate duchy, and where he first banished drag queen Terry Warren for appearing at cocktail-hour in drag back in 1975. Panzi and her posse, which included the drag-set as well as some real girls (yes, there were women who were outraged as well), plotted their revenge! Now here it is 43 years later, bigger and better, than ever! Make way, boys…oh, and you Pine-sies too! We give you Invasion 2018!

Give a girl a pair of lace-up platforms, a bin-full of fabrics, and a bunch of bird-of-paradise blossoms, and she’ll come up with something!

The Sayville Ferry Service taking the Invasion “troops” to the Pines.

Michael Moran struts his stuff as one of the escorts for the new Homecoming Queen Over at the Ice Palace, the hunky mixologists mix it up Rose Levine. with one of the minxes.

Cherry Grove icon and founder of The Invasion, Panzi!

There’s nothing braver than a drag queen in a wig and tiara, a spandex cat-suit, and 6-inch spike Every color of the rainbow, and a salute to all the LGBTQ heels...on the deck of a ship...in Monarchs and members of the royal family of the folks who’ve fought the “good fight” over the years. 100 degree heat. Imperial Court of New York. Happy Warriors, all!!

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 5

AROUND & ABOUT >> Continued

Totally “on trend”.... the fit ‘n’ flair FIN staff photographer Robert Sherman also got a respectable round silhouette, a textured floral with of applause, as he got into the spirit of things for this assignment. matching accessories, and all in Anita (Photo by Alessia Iannuzzi-Sherman) Hey Centaur, Penny for your thoughts. Bryant Orange. VOILA!

Floyd Estate Ocean Beach Children’s “A Celebration Day Parade July 4, 2018 of 300 Years” Photos by Lauren Chenault Photos by Sean Fitzthum

A FAMILY’S HISTORY is told through ancestral objects in this special exhibit at William Floyd Estate. Check out Thomas McGann’s History col- umn on page 47 of this issue, and if you can’t make it out to the kickoff celebration in Mastic Beach on July 7, the exhibit will remain on display through Nov. 11, 2018. (See our Calendar on page 22 for more information.)

Miss Pinto in Candy Land. Harper as the Little Mermaid.

.Blue Mules V intage Red Fire Truck

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com Open 7 Days a week starting Memorial Day Please call or visit our website for more details 631.583.8800 www.maguiresbayfrontrestaurant.com

©Marc Millman 2013

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 7

SHOPPING AROUND >>

Fire Island News Welcomes Maguires Gets Festive our Ocean Bay Park Advertisers Aboard!

Island Pantry. (Photo by Robert Sherman)

All decked out for the Fourth. (Photo by Shoshanna McCollum)

Summertime tunes with Rob and Rene. (Photo by Lauren Chenault)

The Bike Shop. Schooner Inn. (Photo by Lauren Chenault) (Photo by Robert Sherman) Summer Splash Across the Bay

The OB PO Ladies: Thanks Dale and Irene for all that you do. (Photo by Don’t forget to stop at Willy Nilly! (Photo by Shoshanna McCollum) Robert Sherman)

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 8

LETTER TO THE EDITOR >> [email protected]

To the Editor: identify the candidates’ platforms, so Letters from our readers are always Beach Restaurant Association Scott Thank you for the fine coverage they’re not distinguishable to the unini- encouraged and welcome. Email your Hirsch as “Steve” Hirsch. Ms. Shapiro of the recent Ocean Beach municipal tiated. A bit of elucidation would go a letter to the editor of 350 words or tired to notify us about the error before- elections (“Hot Mess: Ocean Beach long way, particularly for those readers less to [email protected]. hand, but it was missed by us, so the 2018 Examined”, June 8.) While not who are not intimately familiar with all No hard copy paper letters please. mistake is ours. Ms. Shapiro further a resident of OB, I frequent many of of the details, yet rely on your publica- Thank you! reports that Scott Hirsh is already test- the businesses in town and am friend- tion to remain informed. Your indepen- ing paper straws in his restaurant estab- ly with many of the residents, so the dent and objective reporting is greatly CORRECTION: A letter to the editor in lishment the Island Mermaid. May his results of this election certainly elicit appreciated – keep up the good work! our June 22 edition authored by Sally search for suitable alternatives yield a interest. Unfortunately, my own igno- –Michael Lustig, Ocean Bay Park Shapiro mistakenly referred to Ocean positive outcome. – The FIN team rance on a number of fronts kept the article from being fully informative. First, there was a reference to the Cartoon by Eric Pederson seasonal workers being able to vote in the local election. This rankles my non-lawyer sensibilities, as it upends my understanding of our Founding Fathers’ intentions as essentially a form of representation without taxation. If indeed the Absentee Ballots were from the service workers (which I’m infer- ring from the apparent uniformity of the vote), there would seem to be a need to verify that they aren’t registered to vote in another jurisdiction and whether those votes should indeed be counted. Second, the implication is that the election boiled down to two fac- tions facing-off against each other: the Homeowners and the Business own- ers. Unfortunately, the article doesn’t

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Keep Families Together Protest in Fair Harbor By Anika Lanser

AS NEWS OF families being sepa- Photos contributed by Ernie Fritz rated at the border and children being and Donna Clock. detained in the United States while their parents are deported shook the nation, groups began to organize for Throughout the protest, nationwide protests to be held on June money was raised for Long 30. Joining the masses of over 600 Island Jobs with Justice, an marches throughout the country was a organization based in Haup- group of about 100 people protesting pauge that is committed to at the dock in Fair Harbor. protecting the rights of work- The protests come in response to ers. The organization also is President Trump’s zero-tolerance pol- beginning to work in support icy that requires the criminal prosecu- of immigrant families, help- tion of anyone who crosses the border ing to resist deportations, and illegally. Members of the administra- providing funds that will help tion like Homeland Security Secretary support families with legal Kirstjen Nielson have defended the fees and economic hardship policy. In a statement to the New York as a result of deportation. Fire Times she downplayed the systematic Island resident Lily sold lem- separation as an effect of prosecuting onade out of her red wagon at those who cross illegally. Meanwhile with the national protests organized by and back to the dock. As the crowd the protest and donated all the prof- over 2,000 children have been sepa- MoveOn and supported by the Ameri- marched, residents came out on their its to the collection of funds for Long rated from their families. Many have can Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the decks to spectate and cheer. Island Jobs with Justice. not spoken to their parents since being National Domestic Workers Alliance, separated, and many parents do not and The Leadership Conference pro- know where their children are being testers were encouraged to wear white, held. In response to widespread outcry to symbolize the protest’s alignment with past actions for racial and social justice. In true Fire Island fashion, Fair Harbor protesters also were encour- aged to bring their red wagons for the march around Fair Harbor. The protest opened with words from its organizers who spoke about the policies of the Trump administra- concerning family separation, Presi- tion and zero-tolerance immigration dent Trump signed an executive order policy. Then, led by a saxophone play- on Wednesday, June 20, ending fami- er carrying the tune “This Land is Our ly separation at the border but there is Land,” protesters marched with their still no clear system in place for reunit- signs and wagons through Fair Harbor ing the children with their families. According to NBC News, the executive order may result in families being detained together for indefi- nite amounts of time. Protesters came from all over the island to participate in the event called Fire Island Communities Say Families Belong Together! The event was organized by Rebecca Vilkomerson, Danielle Ash- er, and Beth Mindes. Keeping

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THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 11

Roundtable Discussion on FI Archive Collections By Shoshanna McCollum

ON A GRAY SATURDAY afternoon Master’s and Ph.D. students of library subtle but important difference. As rights to the image. The iconic pho- on June 23, individuals from every sciences perform the work as part of a a federal agency, the park rangers in tograph of Dr. Martin Luther King corner of Fire Island quietly filed into credit internship, equipped with state- attendance knew their archival hold- riding a bicycle in Seaview is a clas- the Ocean Beach Historical Society. of-the-art scanning equipment – need- ings may not qualify for this program. sic local example. The image is now The meeting was by invitation only, less to say we are not talking about However the updated FINS General ubiquitous on social media, but Stan extended to the keepers of repositories some home office printer/scanner that Management Plan contains expanded Wolfson, a longtime staff photogra- on this island that are like beads on a huffs, puffs, and runs out of ink all the language about reconciling the unique pher at Newsday, took the original string: Point O’ Woods Archives, Fire time – all at no cost to these often cash- cultural aspects of the Fire Island com- photograph – together they jointly Island Pines Historical Society, Cher- strapped modest organizations. munities. Their reasons and interest own the copyright. ry Grove Archives Collection, Ocean All of what Hunter described for being there were legitimate. While the meeting raised perhaps Beach Historical Society, as well as sounded like a pretty sweet deal, how- Questions then shifted to propri- more questions than it could answer, representatives from Water Island, ever there were questions that needed etary rights. Once they are digitized, this grant still presents a valuable Ocean Bay Park, even folks wearing to be asked, which was what this gath- collections would be uploaded to a opportunity to small historical societ- ranger hats from Fire Island National ering was all about. One of the larg- cloud site known as Preservica. Once ies – unlike libraries or local govern- Seashore (FINS) itself. er questions out there was who in this on that cloud site, would treasured ments in New York that have robust “I speak to you today not as a lead- room qualifies for the program? images become public domain? Hunt- funding venues at their disposal, small er, but a participant,” said Fire Island This publication recently got its er assured the audience that need not institutions like the ones represent- Association (FIA) President Suzanne own archive back after many years. be the case. Once uploaded, historical ed that day often have few options Goldhirsch. “This is a challenge (See our June 8 article “FIN Archives societies maintain control whether the beyond private donations. where all key participants are starting Acquired.”) However FIN would images are public or open to a limit- What was apparent was that with from zero.” not qualify for participation because ed audience. only 80 slots to be filled by 2022 on At that time Goldhirsch introduced the institution in question has to be Then questions shifted to intellec- Long Island, the seven or eight small Dr. Gregory Hunter of the Palmer an IRS recognized charity organiza- tual property. Just because a print of groups in that room will have to work School of Library and Information tion known as a 501 (c) 3. Fire Island a photograph ends up in a collection together if they are to earn this chance Science, at Long Island University News is a commercial business. Sev- it does not mean the institution has to save history on Fire Island. (LIU) Post. (Formerly known as eral organizations represented in the C.W. Post, in Brookville.) As Hunter room have 501 (c) 3 status already, explained, not long ago the Palmer but not all of them. Some like Cher- School at LIU Post become a recipient ry Groves Archives Collection, which of a $1.5 million grant from the Robert had been functioning as a loose col- David Lion Gardiner Foundation to lective, had the foresight to partner digitize materials in local historical with Cherry Grove Arts Project, which societies across Long Island over a already had this tax-exempt status, so five-year period. In the first year of the they might benefit under the same pro- project, 26 historical societies in Nas- verbial umbrella. sau and Suffolk counties were accept- Beloved CJ’s bartender Jimmy ed into the program. They are looking Engle, who sat in on the meeting to expand that number to 80 in total because he has built his own impres- by 2022. This meeting was an explor- sive Fire Island collection of post- atory one to see if the Fire Island card and memorabilia over the years, historical societies, either collectively also would not qualify because he is or as a whole, would be a good fit for a private collector. Engle would have the program. to relinquish ownership of his collec- It’s no secret that small histori- tion to a 501 (c) 3 in order to partic- cal societies across Long Island are ipate in the project, something he did often struggling organizations. They not seem terribly eager to do. Even if have the will and desire to collect but he did, there is no guarantee his vin- not necessarily preserve their history. tage postcards would make it to that Photographs, ledger books, and mem- high-powered scanner. The LIU proj- orabilia are among the items that can ect is designed to sample highlights of tell the story of a given communi- a collection. ty. Storage conditions within said his- “No one is going to get everything torical societies can leave much to be on their Christmas list,” Hunter said. desired, and said items are vulnerable Ocean Beach Association President to the ravages of time. Add existence Maria Silsdorf, the coordinator of this on a to that equation and meeting, affirmed Hunter’s statement those concerns are tenfold. on the importance of “prioritizing.” The LIU project has two modal- Goldhirsch then added that even FIA ities. Digitization can be performed would not qualify, because although on-site at the historical society, or they are tax exempt, they are what is materials can be brought to the campus. known as a 501 (c) 4 organization, a

www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 12

EXIT INTERVIEW: OB Trustee Bendicksen Reflects on Term By Anika Lanser

AS I SAT DOWN WITH Jason Ben- dicksen to learn about his time as an Ocean Beach trustee, I quickly real- ized it might be difficult to hear about his accomplishments straight from the source. This is not because Trustee Bendicksen does not have a lot of sto- ries to tell, or a compelling and pro- ductive term to reflect on, but rather because Trustee Bendicksen is excep- tionally humble. At the end of his first four-year term as a trustee and having been on the island since 2000, Bendick- sen reflected on his path to the board. “I’m not very politically-minded or business-minded. But I saw a shift in the kind of people who were attract- Jason Bendicksen with Bus 19 at Fire Island School. (Photo by Lauren Chenault) Jason with his dog Benny. ed here. I wasn’t a homeowner or a business owner, so I had no stake in living the nightlife scene. Later, he He added, “You can’t recapture the leaving behind phenomenal friend- the game except that I lived here. I found his way to the Ocean Beach Fire essence of this school anywhere else.” ships.” Stewart is, however, still on thought I could help with quality of Department beginning in 2011 and After Superstorm Sandy he ran for the Atlantic coast. Bendicksen com- life issues.” the Woodhull School for the past five Ocean Beach village office, being elect- mented, “It’ll be the same ocean, the Bendicksen came to Fire Island years. Bendicksen worked as the bus ed to the position of trustee in 2014. same sunset. I got really spoiled by the first as someone working with the driver for the school, but also volun- He described his role on the board ocean here.” telephone company, bartending, and teered each week to read to students. and his contribution to Ocean Beach When asked what he’ll miss most, as helping the board to listen. “Pri- he responded, “The sense of commu- or boards could be very isolated from nity I’ve found with the fire depart- the community. I think I’ve helped to ment, the school, and the board. It’s give the community a stronger voice,” an interesting group of neighbors and he said. an interesting group of friends. I’ll On the topic of the projects he miss the beach and drinking my coffee accomplished with the board, Ben- while I watch the sun rise. And hearing dicksen commented, “It’s a full-time the waves all the time.” job keeping the Village running. The In Florida, Bendicksen will be Village is never done. If it’s done that working with a company that works means it’s not growing.” to improve handicap accessibility. He In terms of the most recent Ocean also plans to volunteer at a soup kitch- Beach election, Bendicksen thinks en a few days a week, but maintains the board’s future will be just fine. that his priority is to support his par- He expressed regret that the elec- ents. Although Bendicksen thinks he tion devolved into quite the dramat- will eventually visit, he likely will not ic event. “Tara [Schoen Fishman] live north of Florida again. “I could could’ve added something nobody never see snow again and be fine with else had the skills to add, but the Vil- that,” he said. He may end up eventu- lage and the board will be just fine. ally with his son in the Virgin Islands There are more people involved in the and will visit his daughter as well as process now than before. There are he prepares to become a grandfather always better ideas if there are more in October. voices,” he stated. Despite Bendicksen’s best efforts Bendicksen is leaving Ocean Beach to overlook his own accomplishments and the board to move to Stewart, Flori- and his impact on the Ocean Beach da, where his parents live. He comment- community, the moving tributes to ed, “I had offered a while ago to move his work at his last Board of Trustees to Florida to help my parents and my meeting suggest Ocean Beach is not dad called me recently and asked me to as willing to do the same. He mused, come down … my goal is just to make “I think I’ve taken way more from their lives as comfortable as possible.” this place than I’ve given.” Howev- He added, “I’m a little scared and er, it seems that the Village and the apprehensive about moving. It’s a little Board would disagree profoundly with like moving to a foreign country. I’m that statement.

www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 13

KISMET by Bradlee White | [email protected] Kismet Kapers

JUNE 16 WAS NOT ONLY ONE OF THE MOST beautiful spring days we’ve had in this season of rain – but it was a perfect day for an auction, or two, or three. The Kismet League for Animal Welfare (KLAW) opened the doors of the Fire House at 10 a.m. to a sweeping vista of tables piled with donated flea market items ranging from paint- ings, household items, puzzles, jewelry and even a fuzzy tusked elephant rocker. One long table was devoted to a Chinese Auction where hopeful visitors dropped tickets in bags associated with the desired items including assorted wines, tequila, scratch-off lottery wreaths, and gift certificates. Silent I won a Hammacher Schlemmer umbrella. A veritable library of books was displayed in wagons. Parked 1 2 outside was a beautiful white bicycle (donated by Gene McGovern) that was being vigorously raffled off. The winning ticket for Patty Lyon was picked by Roxanne, Caroline’s white pet bird. It was quite a sight. Annie Paulson, a frequent visitor to Kismet, painted cat faces on children and some KLAW volunteers. Board members thanked the community and said it was a lot of fun even though the proceeds were a bit under some prior years. The Kismet Auction dinner was a great success. Working from early morning, Amy Wood, aided by Judy Phelan, Joanne Padovano and Patty Lyon, arranged silent auction items. Joanne and Patty presided over the check-in podium as guests began arriving along the bay in the early evening. John Altieri shone as auctioneer par excellence. Over- heard afterward were many comments about how much fun it all was, though one auction veteran was 3 heard to say “not like it used to be.” Ah, those were the days. was no surprise to those who saw him on last year’s veteran of WWII, owned the house known as “Basin The much heralded Comedy Night on June 22 “Kismet: 15 minutes of Fame.” Both lead-in comic Street” (now “La Famiglia”). He and his wife Peggy was indeed a lot laughs. Sam opened the show with Dennis Rooney and “star” Joey Kola riffed on Sam, were regulars when the Stompers played the Inn. gags on a guitar he’d found: His dry sense of humor the contractor and the uniqueness of performing in John Woods, a Korean War veteran, was a renter here a Fire House. Joey’s imitations of his wife and kids for 50 years at “Camelot,” “Bulkhead” and with his voices were “spot on.” He had the crowd roaring, friend Artie Schiller. some more than others. The comedians posed with the event’s organizers. “Lazy Bones” Drs. Linda Upcoming Events: and Janet won the raffle for a super-sized board of July 7: Sandcastle/Sand Sculpture Fun event. scratch-off tickets. Start after 10:30 a.m., finish by 3 p.m. Amy was glowing after finally moving into July 21: Kismet Day! their newly raised and renovated home. She posted pictures of their ecstatic dogs on Facebook, so happy with their old/new home. The cat, not so much – “too many dogs…can I have my own room now?” The 1 and 2. At the flea market: Dawn and Gary Leone Lambes were all smiles as Brooke graduated from and Kim and Kai. eighth-grade, headed for Bay Shore High School. 3.  Comedians Joey Kola and Dennis Rooney with Thanks to Jack Baker for letting me know of the event organizers Myrna Ussah, Wendy Schou, passing of three military veterans who were long- Joe McKeehan, Patty Lyon, KFD Chief Dom time residents of Kismet. Des McCarthy, a WWII Bertucci, Dana De Ruvo and Rudy Gerlich. 4 veteran, spent 10 years in residence at “Ten Fathom 4.  Bill Jenks, Cindy Lou and Annette on the way to Yacht Club” off Seabay Walk. Walter Ulma, also a the Kismet Auction.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 14

SALTAIRE SALTAIRE SUMMERY by Hugh O’Brien | [email protected]

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I CAN’T BEAT MARIO’S heartfelt greeting in last pending on how lenient your boss is in honoring your August’s fireworks explode the sky-borne salutation, weekend’s email from the Village, the one about request about attending your six grandmothers’ fu- “Happy Half-Century, SCA!” those “hordes of people arriving on the shores of nerals this week. So for a lot of folks this has evolved The Post Office opening on June 21 was accom- Saltaire driving us crazy…oh wait, that’s you guys… from the typical three-day weekend to a nine-day (or panied by a literal avalanche of packages inundating um I mean, we’re so happy you’re finally here to get maybe 10 or 11) event, and the weather couldn’t be the place. (And you ask why the Amazon boxes were the summer rolling,” so we’ll simply say, “Hmm,” more cooperative, provided you ignore the heat ad- smiling.) Postmistress Liv Hempel found herself so and move on. Camp’s opened under the stellar aus- visories from those climate-change Commie scare- blockaded that there were momentary fears we’d pices of our own Keith Miller, an experienced hand mongers in Suffolk County. This Saturday, July 7, have to thread a feeding tube through the mail slot, at such things. Keith, the office staff and Recre- marks the annual Fire Company parade, with the but thanks to some judicious muscle and back-break- ation Trustee Hillary Richard have been earning Bay Shore Fire Department marching band clearing ing phone calls the office was eventually rendered their pay preparing a varied and terrific program. the way for a defile of trustees, trucks and trumpets, accessible and the cartons began emptying out. Of (Well, all save the unpaid Trustee Richard, who in wherein you might just get a glimpse of our new course, there’s no way this system could possibly be lieu of cash gets a blue ribbon as consolation since pumper and our new ambulance, provided that one’s improved, so welcome to the 21st-century version of these days, by generational edict, everybody’s a back from the shop. (To complete its outfitting – it going postal. winner!) There’s still time to enroll your children hasn’t broken down. Yet.) Things step off smartly, or Meanwhile, to ignite the holiday spirit we kicked so they don’t miss out. Meantime those looking for at any rate off, at noon precisely, and after wending off with the organizational meeting of the Board of s’more fun ventured up to Saturday night’s ocean its way through the formerly quiet streets of the vil- Trustees, an annual event that drew more than its bonfire, celebrating the forthcoming Fourth with, lage, the procession returns to home base, where hot usual share of enthusiasts. The big deal was the cli- of course, s’mores, the selfsame foodstuff that kept dogs, cold drinks and warm music will prevail. Ear- mactic vote on rebuilding Lighthouse Prom in wood the Continental Army from starvation at Valley ly this year, I know, but that’s the day the band could or concrete, the former prevailing by a 3-2 vote. At Forge and won the Revolution. This party’s become make it, and we’re slaves to their art. (Remember Art least and at last the issue’s been put to bed, if not to a hallowed community tradition, like paying taxes, Gum and his Rubber Band?) sleep, and one suspects wood’s opponents and pro- and there’s nothing as gratifying as seeing public The SCA held its annual meeting on June 23, and ponents will find it neither the Calvary feared by the officials like the mayor, head of maintenance and received a number of worthwhile suggestions to take first nor the Nirvana anticipated by the second. chief of Public Safety performing overt physical la- up and work on. The group’s next event is the House bor setting up and dismantling the equipment in an & Garden Tour, Saturday, July 21, starting at 10 a.m. effort to mitigate a modern taxpayer’s revolt over Visit the association’s website for full details and 1. The first of the Fourth gather for Saturday’s beach the skyrocketing cost of s’mores. ticket information; hopefully signs advertising this party. (Photo by Bob Rittenhouse.) As mentioned previously, given the Wednesday always-jam-packed shindig also will go up shortly 2. Three silhouettes in the shade observing the scheduling of Independence Day (no, not the kids’ around town. By the by, this year marks the 50th festival below. (Photo by Catherine O’Brien.) movie), this year you get to prolong the ecstasy of anniversary of the former SCAA’s founding; some 3. James Veronese up close and personal with the the holiday for seven or eight days, maybe more, de- sort of honorific seems in order, no? Maybe have bonfire. (Photo by Catherine O’Brien.)

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 15

Saltaire Board Meeting: 6/30/18 – Wood or Concrete/ Concrete or Wood? By Emma Boskovski

THE SALTAIRE MEETING began and seemed other information that will be discussed further at to never end with the first section of old business, the next meeting. Lighthouse Promenade Improvement. The village is also considering adopting a local After an hour and a half, there was still no law, boundary line changes. Currently, community decision made about picking a material for the members can go directly to Suffolk County with plans walk of Lighthouse Promenade, but the commu- to reconfigure lot line boundaries between adjoining nity did reach a general consensus – wood is the parcels without informing the village. This is a prob- safest material, aesthetically pleasing, and easiest lem affecting many villages within the county. to maintain. With the adoption of this local law, community Expressed by the board, the downside of wood is members would be required to seek village approval that once it starts to crack, water easily gets in and prior to submitting an application to Suffolk Coun- creates an unsafe situation for those who walk on it. ty. After questions and proposals to modify the lan- The downside of concrete is there is no flexibility guage, the board voted to table discussion until the once the concrete begins to crack. next meeting. In the event that wood is chosen as the material The first organizational meeting of the new board of choice, an engineering design has been planned is normally held in late June or early July, following to assure load support. the elections of late May. Although the board mem- While a design for concrete has not been creat- bers did not change, there were routine matters that ed, it was discussed that it will have to include slabs needed to be voted on regarding operations for the on the sides to structurally prevent cracking. A con- following year. The board approved appointments crete design will also enable trucks to drive faster, to the open terms on the Village Board and commis- a major concern among community members that sions and resolutions outlining village operations. is fueling the push for wood. The board reassured In past years, the number of trustees required to the community that a concrete design would require call a special meeting of the board had been set at accounting measures for safety, such as stop signs four – meaning all trustees. Trustee Hugh O’Brien and speed bumps. These measures are estimated to proposed that this number be reduced to three. cost an additional $60,000. Joseph Prokop, village attorney, remarked that most “I had an accident with my 10-year-old daughter villages require only three or even two trustees, so on the concrete walks for two summers in a row,” this portion of the resolution was tabled for a vote at said Trustee Hillary Richard. “The cracks in the the next meeting. concrete create an unsafe environment for every- The final item on the schedule voted on by the body. We, as a community, have made no attempt to board was to authorize payment of the final costs correct the issues that the concrete has created. I feel of the Fire Company ambulance, an anticipated that the staff of Saltaire is better equipped to repair expense to be paid out of existing funds previous- a wood walk.” ly dedicated to that purpose. The money comes from Major Zaccaro explained to the public that the the village’s 2017 contract for ambulance services to bids for a contractor have come back with two bids Kismet, therefore no expense to Saltaire taxpayers. for concrete at $3.5 million, and three for wood at $5.4 million. “The last decision that we made as a board is that we would like to use wood,” said Zaccaro. “We Wood have submitted it to FEMA, along with hard num- bers for the project like they asked.” Concrete After every concern about Lighthouse Prom- enade from the community was addressed by the Concrete board, the discussion ended in a 3-2 vote to com- Wood mence the rebuilding process using wood. Howev- er, no bid has been accepted. They are pending final review and will be discussed at the next meeting scheduled for Aug. 5. With a fraction of the crowd remaining once the discussion of Lighthouse Promenade finished, the next topic of old business began with Zaccaro reviewing the reconstruction status of Village Hall and 14 Bay Promenade, which currently houses the Public Safety Office and the village doctor. The vil- lage is still waiting for certain design proposals and

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 16

ATLANTIQUE by Kirsten Corssen | [email protected] Stop by the Dock Shops! NOTHING BETTER THAN WALKING DOWN the dock on a hot day to find an adorable group of children selling some cold lemonade. As you pull out a dollar and sip that delicious lemonade, you can’t help but appreciate the things that make Fire Island unique, and these children setting up shop on the side of the dock is one of them. If you know Atlantique, you know what I’m talking about. If you grew up here, like I did, I am sure at one point you had a shop of your own. I myself kept a jewelry shop as a little girl that I would set up right near the public bathrooms. My sister and my two best friends would start planning way before summer. Throughout the winter, even on snow days, we would start making our jewelry. We sold brace- lets, necklaces, anklets, sunglasses chains, and many unique beaded creations. We had a picnic basket for our supplies, and an anchor-shaped table where we would set up shop. It was one of the first pop-up shops, long before the term was coined, because it would be set up wher- ever we went as we traveled on our two-week boat vacation. You could find our creations out in Mon- tauk, Block Island and even Rhode Island. At the end of every season we would use the money we made on food. It was totally worth all the work to get some yummy ice cream, and even more rewarding because we made the money ourselves. This was the stuff that created many fond memories for me and my friends. Now as an adult, I wanted to learn about some- one else’s dock shop story. What are kids selling on the Atlantique docks today? I met Angelina, Ava, and Molly – three adorable girls selling a variety of homemade products. These young entrepreneurs set up their business plan well before summer got start- ed. They were Facetiming trying to come up with good products to sell that would catch the beach goer’s attention. “At first we were going to sell lemonade, but after we discussed it and realized that we could be competing with the Shack’s business, we changed our plans,” said Ava. After ruling out lemonade they went in a differ- ent direction. Molly came up with the idea to make homemade soups to sell. Never have I seen home- made soups being sold on the dock before. Not only was this an original idea but they really did smell awesome. After picking the product they named their business The Beach Bananas. These girls did not stop at soup. In their stand I also found handcrafted bracelets, necklaces, and painted signs. Their talents went way beyond paint- ed shells! Their products were appealing because you could tell they were made with care. Beach Bananas is one of the many shops you will see set up on the docks this summer. The tradition of little kids trying to make ice cream money lives on. Angelina, Ava, and Molly selling their wares.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 17

OCEAN BAY PARK by Barbara Gaby Placilla | [email protected]

THERE IS ALWAYS one issue that I call my If you saw two women paint- “potpourri” column because it’s basically a little bit ing over the telephone number at of this and a little bit of that. Usually it occurs in Neptune’s Nursery on the corner mid-summer, during the dog days when I’ve run out of Bayview and Ocean Bay Boule- of news or have just been too busy or lazy to hunt it vard, they were not graffiti artists, down. You know the feeling; we’ve all been there! rather they are Ocean Bay Park’s Maybe it’s because summer just couldn’t make up own “artists-in-residence,” Lisa its mind as to exactly when it was going to arrive. Jaffe and Rachelle King, who were Then, after an unusually quiet and cool June, on the making changes to the telephone last weekend of the month, it was like summer on number for the nursery owner, steroids. Just in time for Independence Day, sudden- Vinnie Fazio. By the time this ly we had no excuse NOT to be on the beach. It was goes to print, Rachelle will be on hot and muggy and the old adage “be careful what a Baltics cruise with her Dad to you wish for” took on a whole new meaning as the celebrate his birthday. Last I saw temperature soared. Lisa, she was paddleboarding in the The start of summer 2018 brought the much ocean. I wonder if she was trying to anticipated and dreaded FIMI project to OBP. I think catch that cruise ship! we all got so used to seeing the sad, unoccupied and Congratulations to Alicia and boarded up houses that we convinced ourselves that 2 Justin “J Haus” on the birth of their this was the new normal and they really were not son, Jude Dylan, who was born on being taken down. For those who are not aware, OBP when she was alive and I had the opportunity. Flag Day, June 14. With a name that combines both Ocean Bay Park is the last phase of the beach replen- So ask and you may be surprised at what you learn. the Beatles and Bob Dylan, I bet he will be rock- ishment project being undertaken by the U.S. Army We have new neighbors on Ontario Street. Carol ing that family music vibe along with his big sister, Corps of Engineers. That all changed on Wednesday, Donohue’s daughter and Tom Byrnes’ niece, Deir- 2-year-old Violet, even before he can walk. June 27, with the arrival of the two construction trail- dre Yevoli and her husband, Rich, just bought 18 The swimming area at the bay beach has been ers that somehow made it down Champlain to where Ontario. People know this house as the one that roped off thanks to Lynn Van de Water and Tiger they are now parked on the dune side of Traffic and Craig and Ann Johnson lived in. Craig inherited it Barton. They took the time, on the hottest day thus Ocean Bay Boulevard. The demolition of the houses from Harris, for whom he was a caregiv- will most likely commence after the July 4 holiday er in his later years. I wonder if the Yevo- and with them will go so much history. It will change lis know that at one time their new house the look of Ocean Bay Park as the first line of hous- belonged to Harris Jackson and his partner es north of Traffic Avenue will now be oceanfront. Earl Murphy. Harris and Earl had two resi- If those houses could talk, what would they say? It dences, one was the “summer house” at makes you stop and think, do you know the history 14 Ontario, now owned by the Cataneses, of your house? Do you know who lived there before and the other was the “winter house” at you? If you are a relative newcomer, ask a neigh- 18. Harris and Earl split the year between bor who has been here for a long time, there are still the two houses. This was almost 50 years some of them around. My experience is that the old ago when Ontario was nicknamed “La Di timers love to pass on OBP history and we all need to La Lane” a reference to the significant record it while we can. I still regret not sitting down number of gay couples who happily coex- with the late Bertha Lindsey to get an oral history of isted in OBP. Fifty is a milestone number, especially when it comes to friendship. The other day I was on 3 my bike riding east to join my husband for Happy Hour. far of the summer, to set up the floats. This is not as While parking my bike, I saw a easy a task as you might think, so thank you both for group of men of a certain age come making it safer for all those who bring their children through the marina gate. I struck up (and dogs, too) to swim in the bay. a conversation with one of them, When you read this issue, we will have already Danny Costello, who told me that 10 celebrated 242 years since the Declaration of Inde- of them have been getting together pendence was signed. I hope you all had a great holi- for a “boy’s weekend” on Fire Island day. Happy Birthday, America! for the past 20 years. They have been friends for more than 50 years, since some of them were 8 years old. 1. FIMI trailers on the beach. They use the weekend getaway as a chance to relax, recharge and keep 2. Lisa Jaffe and Rachelle King – artists-in-residence. 1 the friendship going. I dubbed them 3. Tiger Barton and Lynn Van de Water installing bay the “Golden Guys.” beach floats.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 18

OCEAN BEACH AREA by Joey Macellaro | [email protected] What’s Old is New Again EMBEDDED IN THE LORE of our village is a poster, and a refrigerator magnet, which will indicate town Revitalization Committee. Chiefs Nick Stertz woman by the name of Margaretta Irwin, daughter their home address, provided by the fire department. of the Ocean Beach lifeguards, George Hesse of of the founder of the Protestant church. Called Birdie The meeting was attended by about 100 members the police department, and Ian Levine of the fire by all who knew her, she committed herself whole- and moderated by OBA President Maria Silsdorf. department all spoke on the preparations of their heartedly to the community, serving on the church A moment of remembrance was held for longtime departments for the season. Levine welcomed new board from the 1920s through the 1980s. She was residents Jerry Heilweil and Mary Jane Lardner. members Max Sherman and Jimmy Sozamenu to known to greet visiting ministers on the dock each Silsdorf welcomed new Village Trustee-Elect Dawn the firehouse, and Hesse discussed his department’s Sunday and escort them to the church. Hargraves, and thanked Tim Mooney and Luke efforts to curb rental violations. Mayor James “You must be the reverend,” she said one Mallott closed the meeting. Many thanks such morning as she approached an incon- to Maria Silsdorf for her assistance in spicuously dressed gentleman on the dock. compiling this information. “How did you know?” asked the As previously noted, the Ocean Beach surprised minister. Community Fund will be presenting the “You’re the only one wearing shoes,” film “Chef” on the ball field this Friday, replied Birdie with a smile. July 6, at 8:30 p.m. In addition, the Fund Knowing this story told by Miss Irwin’s will be hosting the Fire Island Kids Art friend Ted Caccia, I felt some form as déjà Show on July 21, with applications avail- vu as I met a visiting minister at the dock able in the village office. before church last Sunday, and was asked The Ocean Beach Historical Society if I was the greeting party. He, too, was will be opening its second exhibit of the wearing shoes. season, titled “Thru the Lens,” with a wine Patty and Chris Brahe, who are among and cheese reception at the Community the parents that make up the board of the House on Saturday, July 14, at 7:30 p.m. Ocean Beach Youth Group (OBYG), also 1 The photography work of Joel Silverberg, have observed continuity between the old Jack Stertz, and Jo Ann Wanamaker will and the new. be featured. Also being held on July 14 is “It’s so typically Fire Island when the Free Union Church’s annual book sale, one of my sons’ counselors is the child from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the corner of of one of my husband’s counselors,” said Ocean Breeze and Midway. Patty. Chris was a camper in the OBYG CORRECTION: I misspoke a few as a child, while Patty spent her childhood weeks ago about the newly revamped Big summers on the beach in New Jersey. Al’s Sip ’n Surf: Owner Jamie Ragusa tells “I really wish there had been an us they certainly do still serve pizza! In the OBYG where my parents had a beach spot formerly operated as Michael’s Risto- house,” added Patty. “I’m truly jealous of rante, Ragusa and partners J. J. Grossman the lifelong friendships Chris has out here and Jay Barje now offer patrons “some- from camp.” thing different, a cross-section of ethnic A ceremony was held by the Ocean 2 3 foods,” with pizza available to go. Ragusa Beach Community Fund (OBCF) on the and Barje previously bartended at the morning of July 1, to mark the official return of the Kaufman of Fire Island for answering resi- Island Mermaid for 27 and 14 years, respectively, camp to its bayside home at Windswept. The OBCF dents’ questions. with the restaurant (Big Al’s Sip ’n Surf) renamed was instrumental in raising funds to rehabilitate the Holly Etlin spoke on behalf of the Ocean Beach after Ragusa’s father. structure after . Community Fund and reviewed the organization’s I experienced déjà vu once again a couple of “We are beyond excited to be back in Wind- calendar of events for the season, which is available weeks ago when my ferry pulled away from the south swept,” said Patty. Magic classes were offered by in the village office. The Ocean Beach Quality of side of the ferry basin and docked briefly at the new magician and mentalist Mike Patrick at the OBYG Life Committee was represented by Sally Shapiro, ferry terminal so staff could size up the new mooring for the first time this year, culminating in a show who noted that the Committee would be submitting location. A wayward traveler approached the captain planned for this Friday, July 6. Camp counselors a letter to the village requesting a smoking ban on with a ticket and asked if he could board. As per Tim will be participating in the first-ever all-staff square village beaches. Mooney, I witnessed the first paying customer to dance at the Community House this season, and the David Lieber of the Village of Ocean Beach board through the new ferry terminal, which is on tradition of playing sports against other towns is Environmental Commission announced two new the site of the one we lost six years ago. returning with competitions with Saltaire on July 9 members: Judy Steinman and Greg Pace. The What’s old is new again — in a new kind of way. and Aug. 9. Registration continues throughout the Commission will be sponsoring two key initiatives season at www.obyg.org. this summer: International Coastal Cleanup Day on 1. The staff of the Landing pause on their front steps. The Ocean Beach Association (OBA) hosted Sept. 9 and Environmental Awareness Day on Sept. its summer meeting in the Community House on 15. Patty Brahe spoke on behalf of the OBYG, and 2. Fire Island News salesperson Beth Errico and new Saturday, June 23. OBA members were given copies Village Trustees Chris Norris and Brian Power friend Crystal enjoying a beach day. of this year’s directory, a new rules and regulations reviewed the objectives of the village’s new Down- 3. The sign is up at the police department.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 19

Taking a Stand at the OBA By Danielle Lipiec

ON THE CLOUDY MORNING OF SATURDAY, On a more somber note, Lieber made attend- 10 years, the salt out here destroys them and we tend June 23, members of the Ocean Beach Association ees aware of the Trump administration’s movement to see a lot of false alarms after five years.” convened at Ocean Beach Community House for the toward lifting the ban on offshore oil drilling, which Ocean Beach Police Department Chief George association’s summer meeting. Led by Ocean Beach he compared to “shooting dynamite into the seabed.” Hesse followed Levine, and began his address in Association President Maria Silsdorf, a number of A newsletter will also be going out in response to this acknowledging the issue of illegal rentals. “When representatives and local officials from different orga- potential threat. I do catch somebody, I review all of the applica- nizations and causes around the Ocean Beach commu- Patty Brahe of the Ocean Beach Youth Group tions that are handed in for that individual house, nity spoke about what to expect this summer season. stood at the podium briefly after Lieber to express her and then suspend every permit the individual had for Holly Etlin headlined the presenters in speaking on joy and excitement for the camp’s first year at Wind- the house,” Hesse said. He credited the ease of regu- behalf of the Ocean Beach Community Fund (OBCF). swept. Brahe reminded attendees of the camp’s rolling lating rentals to a new program OBPD has enlisted, As co-president of the organization, Etlin detailed the admission, and urged parents to sign their kids up at stating, “We’re now able to, with our smart phones, OBCF’s packed agenda for the summer, listing a num- their earliest convenience if they hadn’t already. actually look at the permit right on the spot, so that’s ber of events for Ocean Beach residents to attend and Trustees Chris Norris and Brian Powers of the really been a great enforcement tool.” enjoy. She announced that the OBCF’s annual fund- Downtown Rehabilitation Committee spoke next. The final scheduled speaker, Mayor James Mal- raiser, which takes place in the first week of August, “This committee is here to voice your desires and lott, took the podium. He proudly noted the prog- would be held at the brand new Windswept building. wants. It is meant to be a conduit between all of ress being made on the Ocean Beach ferry terminal, She thanked members for their continued support and you, who care so much about our community, and and spoke on the urgency of putting a roof over the generous donations towards the restoration of Wind- the board of trustees, Norris said. “We’re very excit- insulation currently covering the building. In clos- swept, which allowed the Community Fund to make a ed for the future of the Village of Ocean Beach. We ing, Mallot reminded the community of the start of $150,000 donation to the cause. have a great opportunity to provide to our grandchil- a new board at the village’s next meeting, and the Following Etlin was Sally Shapiro, who spoke dren the very village that some of us enjoyed when swearing in of new board of trustees members, set to for the Ocean Beach Quality of Life Committee. we were little ones ourselves.” happen on July 4. Shapiro detailed the committee’s ongoing efforts to Chief Lifeguard Nick Stertz took the stand next, As the meeting drew to a close, an unexpect- control matters like smoking regulations. After cit- and addressed Ocean Beach Association members ed speaker approached the stand with a personal izens expressed a substantial interest in the matter, with gratitude for their continued warmth and appre- ambition for the Ocean Beach community. “I think the committee has begun putting forward a motion ciation for the village’s lifeguards. Following with there should be a preservation committee formed,” to ban smoking in the Ocean Beach children’s play- remarks on the noticeable size-up of the beach, Stertz she said. “When I came back here in the spring, I ground. She also touched on the committee’s contin- emphasized why it is more important now than ever could not believe what I saw. The whole unique- ued efforts to regulate noise in the village. to reduce littering. Stertz remarked that he noticed ness and charm of this place is being ruined.” Much David Lieber led the next presentation as he rep- the amount of debris left has been substantial. of the crowd nodded in agreement with the words resented the Village of Ocean Beach Environmental Ocean Beach Fire Department’s Chief Ian Levine being shared as the resident continued. “Many peo- Commission, which ensures protection and pres- spoke to attendees acknowledging the 80th anniver- ple knock down houses; I’m not talking about hous- ervation of the natural aspect of the Ocean Beach sary of OBFD. Levine listed upcoming events like es that can’t be salvaged, I’m talking about houses community. Lieber began on a happy note, inform- the annual Labor Day pancake breakfast, Fourth of that are perfectly good. They’re ruining the aspect ing attendees that the village’s annual beach cleanup July Parade, and Fourth of July Picnic on the ball of this place. I think the homeowners need to stop is set to take place on Sept.15, and will be expand- field. To close, Levine urged residents to change the being passive, it has been going on for too long.” The ed to the surrounding communities of Robbins Rest, batteries in their smoke detectors, and personally statement was followed by strong applause, as many Corneille Estates, Seaview, Ocean Bay Park, and recommended replacing them if they had surpassed appeared to share the opinion with the woman who Point O’ Woods. five years of age. “Even though the life expectancy is took the stand, to make a stand.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 20

CHERRY GROVE ROSE’S VIEW by Robert Levine

revue featured old and new moments of our great history of Cherry Grove shows through years. Twenty performers appeared. Some performed original material, and a few old timers like myself performed our “original” numbers. I recreated “Good Times Are Here to Stay” from the 1972 “Dames at Sea.” The house was sold out and the audience loved it. Eric Martin was the musical director. The community wants to thank everyone 1 2 who worked on this show. Michael Moran and Mathew George graciously hosted a birthday party for Michael Fitzgerald on June 22. At least 15 guests from Cherry Grove were there to enjoy a wonderful buffet dinner with a full bar and a great selection of desserts. Jack Roullo spent a week in Southern Italy, where he attended a family party. He rushed back to the Grove so he wouldn’t miss too much here. Other Grove travelers were Dan Evans and Jim Kelly-Evans who visited Munich, Dresden, Berlin, and London. Frank Borsis is on a Greek visit spending time with 3 4 his family at the Island of Lefkada. Peggy Samson is back in the Grove from London, entertaining guests ROSE LEVINE THE 43RD HOMECOMING and Idano Whomi. It was a funny and silly after- and enjoying the good life. Richie Mastascusa trav- Queen of Cherry Grove is excited about invading the noon. The winners were Jackie Pizza and Frances eled to Massachusetts for one week to visit his family. Pines with her bevy of 300 beauties. Many residents McDoormat. Richard Bell, assistant to the producer, Richie is the Pilates guru of the theatre industry. His and visitors rent tables with several Grove estab- has been doing this job for 15 years. Surprise guests clients are many Broadway celebrities. lishments that afford a great view of the festivities. were China and Robin Murray. The 49th annual Pride March in This gives them the opportunity to watch the parade Gerri and Morgan MacWhinnie are looking Manhattan was the biggest to date. One of the spon- go by in leisure and comfort. Gay Nathan and Julie forward to the arrival of their daughter, Inez, and sors of the March was TD Bank. Former Cherry Paradise have organized a group of friends including granddaughter, Claire, who now live In New Zealand. Grove resident Jason Dull spoke on behalf of TD Frank and Gary, their guests from Santa Fe; Mel and They will be spending a few weeks in the Grove. Bank in their commercial. Our very own China Don (returning to the Grove); Al Wofle; and Ken Tim Tareco turned 40 +10 this year. He hosted a was waving from the TD float! We also saw Tree, a Lewis to join them at a ringside table. Additional fabulous party at his new beautifully designed home frequent visitor to the Grove, riding on the Stone- coverage of this event will be featured in the next in the Grove. His parents, Gina and Pat, and his wall float. Another Grove resident, Franco, was issue of Fire Island News. sister, Julie, and her wife, Lauren, arrived from Hull, proudly marching. The Cherry Grove Fire Department had a major Massachusetts, and were introduced to all the many fundraiser at Cherry’s. Donna Piranha hosted the Cherry Grove friends in attendance. The food was Upcoming Events: evening by introducing everyone, doing a few songs catered by Stephen Daniello. Presented elegantly on July 6-12: Daniel Nardicio and The Arts Project and bringing guests up for games. The Ex-Chief the patio around the pool, it was delicious and served present “Club Cumming” a week-long festival of Steven Williams and First Assistant Chief Laura Ann by four young men dressed in white. concerts, burlesque, parties, knitting, tea dance, Giusto were present. We were all glad to see CGFD The Cherry Grove Garden Club had a very show tunes and art classes. See flyers around town. President Arthur Cohen back in the Grove looking successful day presenting their annual Garden Tour, July 14: “La Vie en Rose” starring Rose Levine fit and ready to get back to his position. Wanda topped off by a beautiful cocktail party at the new will be held at the Community House on Bastille Sykes, who is spending some free time in the Grove, home of Bill Beauchamp and Michael Lonergan. Day, at 8:30 p.m. Brian Taylor will accompany. Stop also attended the fundraiser along with just about It was hot but pleasant around their poolside by the Community House box office either Saturday everyone in town having a great time. bayfront home. or Sunday, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., or visit online at The Cherry Grove Fire Department also gave The Concerned Women of the Grove, an organi- www.artsprojectcg.org. a touching memorial service for two longtime zation that raises money for breast cancer, kicked-off July 18: The sixth annual Opera Discussion members who passed away this year. William ‘Bill’ a new event on Saturday, June 30. Angela Rugerio, Group, hosted by Jim Crapotta, will be held from Strumlauf served since 1977, and Robert ‘Bob’ Sue Panzer, and Angela Smith spearheaded this 11 a.m. to noon, beginning today and every Wednes- Younger served since 1996. Family and friends group of 28 people who arrived in the Pines and day, at The Community House. All are welcome. were there to honor them. Bruce Michael Gelbert walked back to the Grove along the beach. Donna sang the Mourner’s Kaddish. Piranha led them, wearing a hot pink dress with a Johnny Pool hosted his 38th year of the “Drag 20-foot train! This sounds like the beginning of 1. Boys of the CGFD. Attack” at Cherry’s. Donna Piranha MC’d the show another big event. 2. Cast of “70 Girls, 70 Years.” and Johnny and Donna performed. Contestants The Arts Project is celebrating its 70th year. To were Ramona, Anna Nomaly, Jackie Pizza, Condim open the theatrical season at the Community House, 3. Johnny Pool’s “Drag Attack.” Miranda, Briana Wintour, Frances McDoormat, Thom Hansen directed “70 Girls, 70 Years.” This 4. Tim Tareco and Family.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 21

FIRE ISLAND PINES ROSE’S VIEW by Robert Levine

I’M SURE YOU AND your friends had a great time B’Nai Olam, St. Ann’s Episco- at the 43rd Annual Invasion on Fourth of July! Get- pal, and Roman Catholic Associa- ting to see the hundreds of those glamazons arriv- tion of Fire Island. Peter Kiernan ing from Cherry Grove to invade the Pines in high and Roy Vickery were the official drag is a sight like none other. They keep the tradi- cashiers, and all were very happy tion going strong. I had some official duties of my with the results. Peter and Roy just own to attend to for this important day, I ask you to returned from a 10-day vacation in patiently await the following issue for more detailed Paris and Antibes. Thanks to Mark coverage of this event. Berman, president of Congrega- Many of our Pines regulars took the prior week- tion B’Nai Olam, who rounded up end off to attend Pride March in Manhattan, on June all the volunteers. 23. It was important to have ourselves represented at Congratulations to Teresa and this key march where it really all began. Loved the Chris Lovito who are celebrat- NYPD Pride truck! ing their 18th wedding anniversa- Gil Neary and Scott Reidel are the royal party ry. They met at the U.S. Open in 3 4 makers of the Pines. They recently hosted a VIP par- . Chris worked in the Pines ty for Bear Weekend, produced by Shane Tate. Dino as a young man with John Whyte and Richard of Bay Walk are constantly on the par- at the Blue Whale; he has been here for 40 years. singers will be held on July 17 at the Ripley-Greer ty circuit in the neighborhood; and thank you Randy He brought Teresa out here and she never left. They Studios, 520 8th Ave., 16th Floor, New York City, on Wilson, who is always here as well, organizing many bought a house and have two lovely girls, Carley Tuesday, July 17, from 6-9 p.m. Singers are request- charitable events. Recently Randy organized a tag and Christie. Carley has appeared in many of the ed to sing their favorite rock song. sale that was very successful for the three religious FIPAP shows in the Pines and will soon appear in In Memoriam: Jack Lichtenstein recently died organizations in the Pines/Grove area: Congregation “Mary Poppins” at the local Gateway Theatre, and at the age of 95, and was a legend in the Pines. He hopefully will have a roll in “The arrived here in 1964, with his late wife Rita, and Rocky Horror Show” in the Pines their two children. Soon after they opened the Pines later this summer. Liquor Shop. Jack and Rita were a team who worked Jeffrey McLean who works at on all the organizations. They were board members of Whyte Hall for FIPPOA, has been FIPPOA, FIPAP and The Pines Conservation Soci- chosen by United Way of Long ety. They both loved performing in shows. In 1981 Island to be their poster boy with they were cast in “Pines Needles” and they got the his service dog Romeo. The ad show biz bug, performing in every show in the Pines runs periodically in Newsday. until 2016. Through the years we performed in many Dominique Alfondre Palmer, of the Grove the Pines shows together. Jack was daughter of the late Bob and Pris- instrumental in building relationships with LBGT cilla Alfondre (Priscilla passed organizations and the Pines. Lambda, SAGE, God’s away in January), and her husband Love We Deliver and Miracle House were just a few. 1 Thomas arrived in the Pines with In addition to his life in the Pines, he was a board their daughter Rosamund from member at the Congregation Rodeph Sholom in Newport, Rhode Island, to attend New York City, the building in which they lived, and the wedding of second daugh- also a few LBGT organizations in the city as well. ter Luned to Alan Smith. It was a He and Rita were friends and supporters of people small intimate family party. I have in need of health care, housing, food, and clothing. known the Alfondre’s since l957, They were generous contributors to many charitable and have attended many wonder- organizations that helped people in need. Jack loved ful happy occasions at their homes the Pines, and we loved him back. in Washington D.C., Key West, and the Pines. FIPAP will present the annu- 1. Peter Kiernan and Roy Vickery. al Labor Day weekend show on 2. The Palmer Family. Aug. 31, and Sept. 1 and 2, at 2 Whyte Hall. Joe Barros will be 3. A rare Byrd in the Pines – with OmOm! the director. An open audition for 4. Mark Berman.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 22

CALENDAR >> by Lorna Luniewski

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 SATURDAY, JULY 14 Family Seaside Adventures Jazz Piano Concert From 10 a.m. to noon, children ages 7-12 Seaview Community Fund presents Bill can meet at for a Mays, at 8 p.m., at the home of Diane family tower tour to explore the history Charlap, 33 Homesite, Seaview. Seating of the lighthouse as they climb the 182 is limited; no children under 12. Tickets: steps. Once at the top, step outside and $35 (available weekend mornings in front experience the sights of Fire Island and of Seaview Market); $45 at the door. the Atlantic Ocean 168 feet up. When they return to ground level, families will Concert in the Park proceed to the Art Studio and creatively Islip Arts Council presents the annual paint a wooden 3D sea creature. Cost: Philharmonic Concert in the Park, under $5; children must be accompanied by an the stars at adult. To register, call 631-661-4876. Heckscher State Park, East Islip, FRIDAY, JULY 13 at 8 p.m. An William Floyd Estate, Mastic Beach, NY The Maggie Fischer Artisan’s Fair Memorial Great South and Food Truck SATURDAY, JULY 7 1-3 p.m., decoy appraisals are offered. Bay Cross Bay Swim Rally is held 300th Anniversary Appraisal fee: $10 for three decoys and Swimmers begin their journey off shore from 3-8 p.m. Celebration $5 for each decoy. Meet at 1902 dining from Fire Island Lighthouse and travel For details, call The will host a room front porch. For details, visit sag- over five miles across the Great South 631-224-5420. special celebration to honor the 300th tikosmanor.org or call 631-854-0939. Bay, ending at Gilbert Park in Bright- anniversary of the purchase of the waters, in memory of Maggie Fischer. FRIDAY, SATURDAY William Floyd Estate, Mastic Beach, MONDAY, JULY 9 Proceeds benefit Hospice Care Network AND SUNDAY, JULY 20, with music, light refreshments and tours Food, Film and Fun Children’s and Family Bereavement 21 AND 22 of the historic Old Mastic House. The Town of Islip hosts a night of food trucks, Program and a scholarship at St. Anthony’s Film Festival crafts, games, a film and family fun. High School in Maggie’s name. celebration kicks off at 11 a.m. with Cherry Grove Archives Collection presents Tonight, at 5 p.m., at Holbrook Country Visit www.greatsouthbayswim.com the unveiling of a new historic marker 20 feature films and documentaries that Club, view “Star Wars Empire Strikes to learn more. procured by the Narrow Bay Historical celebrate LGTBQ families in Cherry Back,” with Jedi training games and Society. Music by Sampawans Creek Grove and around the world, with spe- crafts. On July 16, “Free Willy” is shown and cake and refreshments on the front cial guests Alan Cumming, Tom Bianchi, at Bay Shore Marina, with under the sea porch will follow at noon. A new exhibit, Brooke Guinan, Parker Sargent, Daniel games and crafts. No food trucks tonight, “A Celebration of 300 Years,” may be Nardicio and others. For a complete list concession stand only. Movies begin at viewed throughout the day on regularly of films and ticket information, visit dark. For details, call 631-224-5430. scheduled Old Mastic House tours. The www.cgacff.com. exhibit includes some never-before-seen items, like the original Floyd Farm deed TUESDAY, JULY 10 SATURDAY, JULY 21 from 1718, and offers a glimpse of the Summertime in the Park Kismet Fire Department Auxiliary pres- Floyd family’s life at Old Mastic. For This popular Brown Bag Lunchtime ents Kismet Community Day, from 11 details, call 631-399-2030. Concert Series kicks off at Dr. Kings Park a.m.-4 p.m., at Kismet Marina, featuring Gazebo, Main Street, Bay Shore, at 12:30 games and prizes, raffles, vendors, dunk Fire Island Ocean p.m., presented by Islip Arts Council booth and food and drinks for purchase. Charity Swim with support from Bay Shore Chamber Kids can learn to build their own light- The 400 Meter, 1 Mile and 5K Ocean of Commerce and BID. Today Jacks house and learn knot tying from the U.S. Swim hosted by Open Water Swim LLC Waterfall performs; on July 17, Stephen Coast Guard. Live music by the Dirty is an open water charity swim event that Salerno takes the stage. For information, Vice Band. Proceeds go to the Kismet will start and finish at Atlantique Beach, call 631-224-5420; or visit Fire Department for new safety equip- ocean side, beginning at 11 a.m. For www.bayshorecommerce.com. ment. Rain date July 22. volunteer and other information, visit SATURDAY, JULY 14 openwaterswimli.com. Concert “La Vie en Rose” Islip Town presents Milagro, a Santana Arts Grove of Cherry Grove presents SUNDAY, JULY 8 tribute band, at Gull Haven Golf Course, this year’s Homecoming Queen of Sagtikos Manor Events Central Islip. Beginning at 5 p.m., music, Cherry Grove, Rose Levine, at the There is no fee to post your public Sagtikos Manor, Montauk Highway, Bay trivia and food trucks; featured concert at Community House at 8:30 p.m. This event in the Fire Island News com- Shore, holds an Antique and Classic Car 7:30 p.m. For details, call 631-224-5430. annual show features Brian Taylor, munity calendar. Email us at info@ Show, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. View over accompanist; Chris Bell, choreogra- fireisland-news.com with listing date, 100 cars and help vote for the People’s Alive By The Bay pher and staging; and George time, contact information and op- Choice Award. Entrance fee: $5. For car The Bay Shore Restaurant Committee McGarvey, artistic director. For tick- tional graphic for your Fire Island show participants registration fee is $10. brings back this popular event, featuring ets, visit www.artsprojectcg.org or or South Shore event. Due to limited For more information, call 631-957-1133, music, art, food and entertainment, along the box office, Saturday and Sunday, space, all event listings are subject to email [email protected] or Main Street in Bay Shore, from 5:30-9p.m. from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. modification at the sole discretion of visit sagtikosmanor.org. On July 15, from For information, visit Facebook. Fire Island News.

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

THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 24

DINING REVIEW >> by Robert Levine Marina Bar & Grill at the Blue Whale

Botox Vein Treatment HAVING DINNER AT the Marina Bar & Grill place becomes an open mic Piano Bar, with Jack Dermal Fillers Microneedling at the Blue Whale Restaurant in Fire Island Pines Aaronson at the grand piano, on Friday and Sat- Kybella PDO Threadliis is a wonderful experience. The space has a com- urday nights, from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. PRP Facials & Hair Loss Chemical Peels fortable, old-world vintage look, which has been Blue Whale could be considered the crown Laser Hair Removal Laser Skin Rejuvenation updated this season with French café chairs, and jewel of the business empire owned and operat- 85B E Main St Bay Shore, NY 631-665-3555 elegant table settings of white tablecloths acces- ed by PJ McAteer, but of course the royal treasure Monday – Saturday amavimedspa.com Free Parking In Back sorized with black napkins. The soft lighting is per- includes many fine gems. Located on the outside fect for an evening of dining at a local harbor side deck across from the bar is shopping at the Gen- beach resort restaurant, with a view of the yachts. eral Store. At the recently redesigned sister estab- The original tile floor, which was installed in lishment known as the Canteen, one can get salads, the 1960s, remains intact, giving the space a spe- burgers, fish taco sandwiches and lighter fare. cial look that no other place on Fire Island has. The Pavilion is McAteer’s world-famous This is the same room where the first histori- nightclub. Here, one can take in the Pavilion Per- cal Tea Dance began under the direction of John formance Series by Brandon Voss, on Saturdays, Whyte. This is also the same room where the first from 6-10 p.m. On Sunday nights, Voss Events benefit for GMHC was held produces Showtune at 11 p.m., in 1986, and the first bene- which gives you a chance to fit for God’s Love We Deliv- relax, see a show and have fun. er, held in 1987. This is the What has attracted much place where so many legend- attention at the Pavilion this ary events began. summer is the “LOVE” art Jay, our waiter, has been installation, which is on loan with the Blue Whale for the for the season, created by Cal- past three years and gave us ifornia-based, American con- his full attention throughout the temporary artist Laura Kimpton. evening. The entire wait staff Of course it is evocative of the is elegantly dressed, and they spirit of the recently deceased serve their guests with ease. Robert Indiana, but Kimpton’s The menu is diverse. We statement is fun, spontaneous, began with seasonal oysters and its Pines visitors and res- and crispy calamari with jala- idents alike love interacting peno rémoulade sweet chili with it. sauce. Then we enjoyed the If you are in the mood for Grilled Hanger Steak Bites pizza at any time of the day, with crispy Parmesan potatoes, Pines Pizza has a variety of and Crab & Shrimp Cakes with pizza toppings to accommo- grilled corn and red pepper date your taste buds. It has BABYLON BICYCLE SHOP rémoulade. Dessert was a deli- other easy take-outs as well, 218 E. Main Street, Babylon, New York cious rich Chocolate Mousse. or you can have coffee and 631-587-6709 Other items on the menu dessert while looking out www.BabylonBikeShop.com include Truffled Mac & Cheese, Tuna Tartare, and watching all the boys go by on Fire Island Founded in 1968, Babylon Bike Shop has answered the Steak au poivre Sliders, Chicken Piccata, South- Boulevard. needs of the cycling community for almost 50 years... ern Fried Chicken Sliders, Lobster Sliders, Shrimp In the same building upstairs is the Bistro, a Tostadas, Fish & Chips, Crispy Lobster Wontons, fine dining experience with a menu to suit every- Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Shrimp Cocktail, one’s taste, and a place to enjoy a quiet evening Truffle Fries, Steamed Mussels, Miso-Glazed Cod, with a friend, partner or to have a special occa- Kale Salad and Caesar Salad. All the entrees list- sion dinner. On the same upper deck, the celebrat- ed on the menu could make a fine dinner, or nice ed Sip-n-Twirl is open for drinks, dancing, and snack after Tea Dance. The extensive wine list will celebrating good times with friends. On Monday complement your meal. The bar is strictly top shelf nights they offer Lip Sync for a Drink, followed brands, and mixed drinks are made to order. by a movie. (Movie titles each week are on to be The restaurant opens after Low Tea at 8:30 announced terms.) p.m., every night except Wednesday, when they Then there is the Aqua Pool Series on week- have Bingo on the outside deck. Dinner is served ends, from noon to 5 p.m., with a DJ and danc- until midnight. During July and August, a reserva- ing around the pool. Fun Tea around the pool tion is strongly advised, especially on weekends. is another happy event on Friday and Saturday, Additional entertainment at the Blue Whale from 7-10 p.m. includes their Drag Brunch every Saturday, pro- Stay fit at the gym with seasonal membership, duced by Brandon Voss and featuring Bootsie day passes or a 20-ticket entry pack. and Jada Valenciaga, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. On In Fire Island Pines there is something for Sundays, brunch with John Putnam and his Used everyone – 24 hours a day. For more information, Blues jazz band is held from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The visit pinesfi.com or call 631-597-6500.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 25 “Cat Man” Documentary Premieres in Ocean Beach By Anika Lanser Evan Lauri, John McCollum, and Pam Valdez smiling after the success of their movie premier in front of the Free Union Church. (Photo by Shoshanna McCollum) ON SUNDAY, JULY 1, a documentary entitled “Cat Man of Ocean Beach” debuted at the Free Union Church in Ocean Beach. The film chronicles the experiences and work done by the Fire Island Ani- film’s conclusion. Lauri thanked McCol- mal Welfare Society, following the organization’s lum for his willingness to share his story Founder and President John McCollum. Created by and spoke about the friendship that blos- recent University of Tampa graduate Evan Lauri and somed between the two over the course of Pam Valdez, and directed by Lauri, the film follows creating the documentary. At the screen- McCollum on his daily journeys to feed, neuter and ing’s end McCollum gave a brief address spay, and care for the wildlife of Ocean Beach. to the crowd about the importance of liv- The idea for the film came from Valdez, as she ing with the wildlife of the island. He con- had noticed McCollum riding his bike up and down beyond simply feeding the cats, it extends into a sort cluded, “Respect our Fire Island and if you don’t want the block and had often wondered what he was doing. of biological observation that allows him and the Fire deer in your yard, move to .” She encouraged her nephew Lauri to talk to McCol- Island Animal Welfare Society to better protect the lum and see “if maybe there’s a story there,” thinking island’s wildlife. John McCollum is the husband of Shoshanna it might be good inspiration for the young filmmaker. The respect filmmakers Lauri and Valdez have for McCollum, the editor of this publication. To learn McCollum came to Fire Island in 1975, when there McCollum came across not only over the course of the more about Fire Island Animal Welfare Society, were only a few cats running around Ocean Beach. documentary, but also in their moving remarks at the visit www.fireislandanimalwelfaresociety.org. Later, he founded Fire Island Animal Welfare Society, an organization that cares for all free-roaming wildlife in the larger Ocean Beach area. Over the course of his work on Fire Island, the Animal Welfare Society has spayed and neutered around 400 cats. McCollum’s wife, Shoshanna, spoke in the documentary about the tough decisions they make in terms of the finances of the organization, acknowledging how hard they work to ensure that the Animal Welfare Society is able to keep serving the wildlife of the island. The film opens with an explanation of where Fire Island is and what sorts of communities the island is home to. The film then cuts to a shot of McCol- lum riding his bike towards the camera as the cats of Ocean Beach emerge from the greenery on either side of the path to greet him. Other times, the view- er watches as McCollum ducks his head into bushes, dives under porches, and breezes past no trespassing signs, with the permission of the owners of course, to refill the cat food at his feeding stations around the Village. The film is full of shots like these. They are heartwarming to watch as McCollum interacts with a number of cats, explaining their personalities and calling them by their names. However these moments serve a larger purpose in the film’s arc as the viewer begins to understand the breadth of the work McCollum has done across Fire Island to care for not just the wild cats, but the wildlife of Fire Island in general. McCollum speaks passionately about protecting Fire Island’s ecologi- cal future and limiting the environmental destruction caused by human influences. The film makes clear that McCollum’s 42 years on Fire Island and passion for the environment and animals have given him a unique and close-up perspective on the ways of the island’s wildlife. In the film McCollum talks about watching generations of cats go by. “I’ve been doing this for 30 years and there are no 30-year- old cats so there’s obviously turnover,” he remarked. Not only is McCollum caring for the island’s wildlife, he is attuned to the ecological shifts of the island and the changes in the ways that animals are existing in Fire Island’s particular environment. His work goes

www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 26

The Perfection A phragmites stem pulled from the stalk. Note the of Phragmites clean, straight end, which occurs naturally. By R.W. Fischer

ANDREW HOFFMAN WAS running to a woody stalk that to a thin outer growth his hands through a stand of phrag- stands for years to come. ring. Unfurl the outer mites growing in the soft muck by the The sound of wind blow- ring to reveal the secret side of a Saltaire walk several years ing through phragmites is to the flexibility of this ago. He grasped one stalk in the palm that of white noise, mask- plant: a series of overlap- of his hand to break it off, which it did, ing other sounds and lull- ping rings of soft growth. but not before slicing a clean, painless ing us to sleep. Howling Each layer wraps the cen- and very deep incision across his hand, gales are no match for ter. Each lap alternates unleashing a gusher of blood. How these benign plants that between clockwise and such a simple plant could do this is a bend and twist but cannot counterclockwise. If the secret hidden inside a deceptively sim- be overcome. top layer wraps the plant ple design. The plant has been in a clockwise direc- Phragmites is the ubiquitous around forever. Ancient tion, the layer underneath marsh reed of Fire Island and beyond. Egyptians used phrag- will wrap the plant in the It grows in marshy puddles of the mites in reed instruments opposite direction. Try as Adirondacks as easily as it grows and as a source of paper. I might to find the engine along the Nile River. It explodes from The Greeks use it for behind this symmetry, I the ground in the springtime, growing fencing. The soft inner found nothing. Many lay- to well over 10 feet tall in a matter of portions can be made into a flour for house. Phragmites is not a native plant. ers wrap a central core. weeks, untouched by the deer who find bread. On Fire Island it is a source of Fifty years ago is was not very wide- At the core of the section there is privacy in its thick stands. In August, privacy. A few feet of phragmites is spread: but once established it expand- a thin, flexible straw: the fluid engine it forms seed plumes, then dies back enough to hide a deer or a person or a ed quickly into our marshy, brackish for this growing machine. Sap flows meadows. At one time the DEC actu- up this straw, pushing the innermost ally encouraged its growth, praising part upwards, forcing the layers to the web-like network of roots for their unwrap as they thicken and mature. ability to stabilize the soil and con- When done, there is a hollow tube of trol erosion. When mosquito control extraordinary suppleness and strength. canals fell out of favor, the flow of salt Fixed in the walls of this tube are the water diminished in our wetlands fuel- capillaries, the straws, the fluid sup- ing the phragmites free-for-all. And ply chain for what lies above, running coincidentally, mosquitoes. vertically along the stem the way high Phragmites is not universally quality packing tape contains string to desired. Connecticut recently launched reinforce its strength. several phragmites eradication pro- Each joint in the bamboo-like inner grams, with the goal to reintroduce portion is covered by an outer layer. native species. It is a slow process. Since each layer alternates its direc- Phragmites grows from a root system tion of growth, there is no weakness built like a thick jute rug lying one or when the plant rotates in the wind. two feet below ground, tightly inter- Forces are distributed evenly through-  connected. A fragment of that root can out the plant. Try to cut the lower sec- regenerate a new colony. The roots tions with a knife and it will resist, just  are thick and durable, funneling huge like cutting across reinforced shipping amounts of nutrients from where they tape. This plant needs no reinforce- are abundant (like cesspools) to where ment, it could be the model by which  it is needed (like a sandy area). Con- these things were designed.   necticut’s eradication method involves When Andrew grasped that stalk   cutting the plants to the ground in the he stressed every inch of the struc-  winter and applying light amounts of ture almost equally, forcing it to break  herbicide at critical times to weak- at a bend in a hollow section, its only  en the plants. These programs have weakness. The core split before break-  been running for several years with ing, stressing the straw capillaries and limited success. forcing them to separate into thin sec-  The structure of phragmites is a tions of relatively dry material, each  marvel of design: light, flexible, and section strong along its long axis. How  very strong. Pull the top stem on a strong? Stronger than he anticipated. growing phragmites: it comes up Strong enough to reveal a remarkably  cleanly and easily, a foot or two of soft well designed plant. Strong enough green growth. Astonishingly, the bot- to be a model of how strength can be  tom will be so flat you will think it was deceptively hidden behind a flexible cut with a knife. Leaves grow from facade. Strong enough to be a life les-  the sides of the stalk, each connected son to us all.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com July 6, 2018 • PAGE 27 FIRE ISLAND NEWS REAL ESTATE & HOME REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Del Mar Ranch at Admiralty - $495,000 DUNEWOOD FIRE ISLAND – $875,000 Exclusive Del Mar Ranch located in Bay Front Gated Admiralty Community. Large entry foyer wel- Charming 3br, 2bth , with renovated kitchen comes you to oversized living room with fireplace. Southern exposed kitchen with breakfast nook, with Granite counters, Thermoseal, white cabinets, oak floors, air conditioned, ceiling large 2 Bedrooms, den/office, extended master bedroom suite with private bath, hardwood floors, fans in every room, electric heat, wood burning updated mechanicals, 1 car garage with overhead storage, private patio, luxurious park-like water- stove. Large shed with washer/dryer and 2nd front community with clubhouse, gym, pool and marina. Contact Helen Thompson at Sunset 3 refrigerator. 6 person hot tub, outdoor shower. Realty, 631-666-2110. Dunewood has 2 tennis courts - swim and sail programs. House includes all furniture and furnishings. Stainless steel gas grill, bicycles. Oversized lot for expansion. Don Goldman 718-344-9181

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  

      Uniquely situated on the curve of an oceanfront beach, this house has unrestricted  views of the Atlantic Ocean, the barrier island, Jones Inlet and the . The  home offers first floor entry & bedrooms, an upper living floor & master suite, a roof  top lounge with spa and outdoor deck space, each with inspiring views from  sunrise to sunset.

 Expression. Inspiration. Life. Unmistakably Busch Associates Architects. www.buschassociatespc.com  Your Source for Fire Island www.fireisland-news.com July 6, 2018 • PAGE 29 FIRE ISLAND NEWS REAL ESTATE & HOME

Your Source for Fire Island www.fireisland-news.com July 6 • PAGE 30 FIRE ISLAND NEWS REAL ESTATE & HOME

Your Source for Fire Island www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 31

Avoid the Summer Burn By Victoria Sharon, MD

NOW THAT SUMMER is in full effect, it’s tempting appropriately, is the minimum recommended to soak in the sun. Whether lounging on your deck level, according to the American Academy of or staking a spot at the beach, the search for the Dermatology. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes perfect tan can easily lead to the dreaded summer prior to going outside. As sunscreen wears off about sunburn. every two hours, don’t forget to bring some with It’s a fine line between brown and burn. you to reapply at regular intervals. If you are going Sunburns are common but avoidable, and the long- into the pool or the ocean, be sure to reapply once term consequences of skin cancer and skin aging you finish your swim. can be extreme. In the most recent data from the Sunscreen is not the only answer to protecting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your body from the sun. Wearing ultraviolet ray skin cancers (melanoma in particular) are rated as protective clothing is a great way to protect your avoid a burn on a cloudy or cool day is to purchase the sixth most common form of cancers. You can skin. Make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat to an everyday moisturizer that has an SPF of at least avoid a diagnosis from your doctor by taking into protect the scalp, face, neck, eyes, and ears as well 30 in it. While you are moisturizing your skin, you account sun exposure while you’re planning your as clothes over a swimsuit or as a swimsuit. Another are protecting it from the sun as well. summer outdoor activities. good way to protect your eyes from the sun is to It’s natural to enjoy the sun. Just keep in mind To protect your skin, apply sunscreen early wear UV-blocking sunglasses with UVA and UVB that one bad burn can have lasting effects. Be safe and often. protection. Sun damage to the eyes occurs more and protect your skin from the sun so you can enjoy Any time spent in the sun should begin with often than you may think. your summer to the fullest extent. a strong defense. That means sunscreen and sun Many people fool themselves into thinking if protective clothing. You should apply sunscreen to it’s cloudy or cool outside, they can’t be burned. the areas of your body exposed to the sun every However, ultraviolet light penetrates the atmosphere Dr. Victoria Sharon is a dermatologist at day. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30, when applied even in the absence of sun. A simple solution to Northwell Health.

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Your Source for Fire Island www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 32

                                      THE  BIKE  SHOP  SALES · REPAIRS · RENTALS Bikes · Wagons · Beach Chairs · Umbrellas   NOW OFFERING TENNIS COURT RENTALS  Hourly, Daily & Weekly Rentals   Open 7 Days a Week 8am-6pm   Call for more information  631-583-5111 Located across from the Schooner Inn   Ocean Bay Park THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 33

Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell: Friedrich Wilhem von Steuben and the American Revolution By Lorna Luniewski

THIS IS A NAME THAT many may not be famil- pay, and promotion of these men over iar with, myself included, but Baron von Steuben is qualified American officers caused credited with being one of the fathers of the Con- dissension. Steuben would have to go tinental Army, teaching military drills, tactics and to America strictly as a volunteer, disciplines. He is still considered one of the most and present himself to Congress. important German Americans, as his training of the He left these first meetings young American troops helped the United States disheartened and went back gain independence from Britain during the Ameri- to Prussia. can Revolution. He was rumored to be homosexual, When he returned home, although records of his relationships are only refer- Steuben faced allegations that he enced in correspondences since homosexuality was engaged in homosexual relation- illegal at the time. ships with young men while in the ser- Von Steuben (1730-1794), was born in Madge- vice of Prince Josef Friedrich Wilhelm burg, Germany. At the age of 17, he joined the Prus- of Hohenzollern-Hechingen. Although sian Army and served as a second lieutenant during never proven, Steuben knew the alle- the Seven Years’ War in 1756, was wounded in 1757, gations would thwart his chances at an was promoted to first lieutenant in 1759, and was officer’s position in Europe, and with taken prisoner by the Russians in 1961. His rise in prosecution for his alleged homosexu- the military continued and he achieved the rank of again in Paris in 1777, and the count, knowing the ality a possibility, Steuben returned to Paris. With the captain and served as aide-de-camp to Frederick the potential of an officer with Prussian general staff count’s recommendation, Steuben was introduced to Great. At the end of the war in 1763, he, like many training, introduced him to Benjamin Franklin. It George Washington by means of a letter from Frank- officers, found himself unemployed. turned out Franklin could not offer Steuben a rank lin as a Lieutenant General in the King of Prussia’s Steuben was formally introduced to the future or pay in the American army however. The Conti- service, an exaggeration of his actual credentials, French Minister of War, Claude Louis, Comte de nental Congress was weary of foreign mercenaries which may have been mistranslated from his service Saint-Germain, in Hamburg, in 1763. They met coming to America and demanding a high rank and Continued on page 48 THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 34

Lighthouse Art Show Opens with Verve By Laura Schmidt

THE OPENING RECEPTION for the band comprising a bass, piano and 17th Annual Benefit Art Show at the drums played smooth jazz and classi- Fire Island Lighthouse amazed vis- cal music on the first floor for guests itors with nautical-inspired artwork to enjoy. from watercolors and oil paintings Artist, author and retired English to photography. and creative writing teacher Joseph The Keepers Quarters welcomed Scalia has two watercolor paintings guests of all ages to view and purchase displayed on the first floor, “Open two floors’ worth of artwork. Hosted Boat” and “Dry Dock.” He is a self- by the Fire Island Lighthouse Preser- taught artist who first tried his hand vation Society, the exhibit is open and at watercolors about 20 years ago free to the public until July 16, and a when he was playing around with his portion of the proceeds will go toward young children. revitalizing the lighthouse. Scalia has experimented with paint- Wine and other drinks were served ing many different subjects from strang- by First Glass Wine Cellars, and a live ers in a park to winter scenes to portraits of people and animals, which he said can be quite difficult. While he changes his subjects rap- idly, Scalia likes to stick with watercolor because of the unique flow and layering it allows artists to play around with. “I always told my stu- dents that a writer writes

because she or he has to,” Scalia said. Patchogue resident Stacy Lin- “It’s what makes them who they are. den was most intrigued by paintings The same is true of painters and any of unique Fire Island sunsets consist- other artists.” ing of breathtaking strokes of orange, Along with a large collection of pink, red and sometimes purple. watercolors, Scalia has published sev- “I just love coming here because eral books including “FREAKs” and I get to look at all this beautiful art his most recent “UFSD 71,” which are I would have to pay some fee to see both set in Long Island high schools. somewhere else,” Linden said. “And All of Scalia’s work can be viewed on it’s so nice to see paintings and pic- his website josephescalia.com. tures of places I actually recog- “Doing a book signing or hang- nize and can say, ‘Oh, I’ve been ing my watercolors for others to see there before!’” is fun,” he said. “But I like talking to Many paintings had a similar focus people. And I like it when someone of life on Fire Island after Hurricane is excited about writing or art and we Sandy. Artists seem to be inspired by share stories about our experiences.” the speed at which the community The art show has something for worked together to recover. all ages to enjoy from abstract oil Visitors can either enjoy walking paintings of shells and crustaceans the wooden path to the lighthouse or to fine photography of elephants and take a convenient shuttle from Field familiar lighthouses. 5. Take the opportunity this month to check out, and maybe even pur- chase, stunning pieces of art from artists local and abroad. “Of course it’s great when someone buys my books or paintings, but that’s not why I do what I do,” Scalia said. “I write and paint because it makes me happy.”

www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 35

Greetings From Fire Island By Lauren Stevens

© Lauren Stevens

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 36

“Coimbra SS” Investigation By Danielle Lipiec

THE LONG-AWAITED INSPECTION of the has been hired to assist in the detailed evaluation of wreckage of a World War II tanker off the coast of the “Coimbra.” The Florida-based company does its Long Island has been set to take place in upcom- work in collaboration with the Department of Con- ing weeks this summer. Although inspection of the servation and other organizations similarly special- “Coimbra SS” was originally anticipated to occur izing in the matter of sunken vessels. between June 19 and 27, the U.S. Coast Guard While the exploration of the site may have been announced it would be pushed back to mid-July. pushed back, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Still, fishermen, environmentalists, and Long Island Administration (NOAA) study shows estimates of residents alike remain eager to learn more of the how the wreckage of the vessel may have already vessel’s environmental impact since its sinking in impacted the environment, and may continue to do January of 1942. so until the tanker’s extraction. A frigid early-morning voyage in the “Coim- The 2013 study deduced that there were multiple bra” from New Jersey to Nova Scotia would end directions the environmental effects of the wreck- abruptly with fatalities and substantial wreckage for age could go. Conclusions can only be made, how- Captain J.P. Bernard and his crew. After being tor- ever, based off of data to be collected by the U.S. pedoed twice by German WWII submarine U-123, Coast Guard in its July investigation. the British tanker burst into flames, splitting into NOAA was able to approximate much through three at the points of impact. The flames of the sink- their experimentation and research, including the ing vessel were visible across Long Island, as far as potential for the tanker’s spillage to affect shore- 27 miles from the site southeast of Shinnecock Bay. lines “from as far north as Cape Cod, to as far Of the 46 occupants of the tanker, 34 perished. south as Cape Lookout, North Carolina.” In addi- The “Coimbra” carried not only crew mem- tion, NOAA touched on the ecological risks of the bers, but also about 2.7 million gallons of lubricat- “Coimbra’s” oil release. Threatened parties include ing oil. Now lying under approximately 180 feet of “numerous guilds of birds, particularly those sensi- water and still in three pieces, many have concerns tive to surface oiling while rafting or plunge diving, pertaining to the vessel’s heavy oil supply and the and are present in nearshore and offshore waters.” impact of its 75 years under water. The study did emphasize that without data collec- At both torpedo impact points, it has been tion, potential outcomes could only be guessed. assessed that oil tanks are open and empty. Precise dates for the investigation of the “Coim- The vessel has been identified by the thin stream bra” are pending the finalization of contracts. In the of oil continuously trickling from its wreckage site. event that lubricating oil is found around the site With a minuscule amount of investigation done on by Resolve Marine and its partners, the U.S. Coast the “Coimbra” since its sinking, little is known of Guard will begin evaluating whether or not a safe how much oil it still holds, or how long the craft removal of the vessel is possible. itself will withstand the conditions of the ocean. However, citizens are left to consider what Aside from what can be seen with the naked eye, damage may have already been done in the 75 years there is an apparent lack of clarity pertaining to the the sunken vessel has been ignored, and if the time, tanker’s current state. The Resolve Marine company, effort and money involved in extracting it will which specializes in the removal of sunken tankers, be worthwhile.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 38

Ready for the Future: Woodhull Graduation 2018 By Anika Lanser

Pre-K Graduates.

Ukulele players! All Photos By Lauren Chenault Boys to Men: The four sixth-grade Woodhull graduates of 2018.

THE WOODHULL SCHOOL GRADUATION with a strong foundation…There are four peri- Jerzi Swason in fifth-grade, Giovanni Giua in sixth- on June 20 began with a concert featuring the stu- ods within a century and we are sending off four grade, and Tyler Crawson in 12th-grade. dents performing in a number of configurations graduates at the centennial of our school.” She The Barbara DeWolf Achievement Award was including the concert band, ukulele ensemble and spoke about the preparation the sixth-graders have given to Lucas Bejarano. The Woodhull Scholarship, choir. The concert began with a few moving words received ahead of continuing their middle school an award of $1,000, is named in honor of late prin- from music teacher Philip Tamberino, who congrat- education across the bay. “I can say with a degree cipal Richard Woodhull and his mother Mina Wood- ulated his students on their musical and academic of certainty that these boys will go on to experience hull who founded the school district. This year the achievements. Through a giant grin Tamberino said, success. But we have also taught them how to be a award was given to Tyler Crawson. “I’m so proud of everybody. The students have done person of character and to find happiness within.” The Fire Island PTA Douglass Wyckoff Memo- so much this year and in music as well.” In closing, Ferraro reminded the graduates to “be a rial Scholarship is awarded in recognition of com- Accompanied and conducted by Tamberino, stu- champion of peace.” munity service and achievements throughout the dents performed several pieces with some stand- The ceremony then moved to the awarding of year. All of the graduating sixth-graders were recog- out soloists. Among them ukulele soloists Kingston the Pre-kindgergarten diplomas. Each graduate nized for this accomplishment and all received Ken- Johnson and Jaxson Adams, who both improvised approached the stage in a cap and gown, making ny necklaces. (Kenny Goodman necklaces that is!) their solo pieces; a duet performed by Kingston Woodhull’s graduation officially the most adorable. The Fire Island Association Tuition Scholarship is Johnson and Ariel Vizcarrondo; a duet by Giovanni Congratulations to all the Pre-K graduates: Arian- a full-tuition scholarship for non-residents. With this Giua on trumpet and Patryk Warzecha on alto saxo- na LaRosa, Jason Longo, Alyssa Picinich, Kaylee year being the scholarship’s first, after being created in phone; and Ariel Vizcarrondo performing on the pia- Picinich, Harrison Ruddy, Milana Scalise, Lilian the middle of the school year, two scholarships were no. Tamberino, bursting with pride as Vizcarrondo Straut, and Daniel Vega. The sixth-grade graduates, awarded instead of one to compensate. These schol- left the stage, reminded the audience she only had Lucas Bejarano, Edoardo Giua, Giovanni Giua, and arships went to Catherine Philippe and Anna Zuleta. been taking piano lessons for two months. Warze- Patryk Warzecha, crossed the stage next to receive Lastly there was special recognition of Debbie cha then returned to the stage to perform “Hallelujah their diplomas. Gerken for her work on the Student Elder Project I Love Her So” on his alto saxophone. The concert Ferraro then congratulated high school seniors and the Centennial Exhibit, on display throughout closed with “We Know the Way” from “Moana,” fea- Liam Bainbridge and Tyler Crawson on their accom- graduation. Dawn Lippert and Carol Kushner also turing the concert band, the third-graders on percus- plishments. Bainbridge heads next to Suffolk Coun- were praised for their assistance to Gerken through- sion and vocals, and the Pre-K to second-grade choir. ty Community College while Crawson will attend out the year. With the concert portion of the evening com- SUNY Maritime College. The evening concluded with a farewell speech pleted, the festivities then turned to celebrating Following the diplomas was the announcement given by the sixth-grade class and a slideshow of the the graduating Pre-kindergarten and high school of award-winners, which began with the Conrad & graduating students. The young men looked back on students, and of course the sixth-graders. District Muriel Wirostek Memorial Award. The award recog- all that Woodhull School has given them and thanked Superintendent Loretta Ferraro opened the gradua- nizes students who demonstrate a strong work eth- the teachers who helped them along the way. “We are tion by speaking about the four sixth-grade gradu- ic and above average effort in all parts of education. ready for middle school and excited for our future,” ates. She remarked, “The number four is associated The award went to Joshua Perez in fourth-grade, they remarked.

Your Source for Fire Island www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 39

ADVICE >> by Camille Mercogliano

Ask Camirose

Dear Camirose, louder. The constant questioning and asking her What really irks me is that I don’t even think he is I work at one of the shops on Fire Island to repeat herself is probably equally as annoying aware or concerned about the disruption this has during the summer and have been for the past to her. Let her know what’s going on. Her breath caused. In fact I have heard that he accidentally several years. One of the other workers is really is another story. Perhaps you can tell her that she did the same thing while visiting someone else. It nice but when she starts talking I actually want is ingesting too much caffeine and it’ll ruin her seems to be a reflection of his age and level of his to run and hide. The problem is that she is a teeth. Suggest she brush her teeth between cups awareness rather than being inconsiderate. He real low talker. She speaks so low I can never so that her teeth don’t turn brown. should still realize the chaos he caused and try to even hear what she is saying, and on top of I don’t know how good of friends you are. It be more aware of his actions. that she never stops talking! It is so awkward to doesn’t sound like you’re too close. It isn’t your — Flooded be around her. I find myself continually making business to fix her, but as a friend you can gently gestures as though I know what she’s saying set her in the right direction and hope that she Dear Flooded, but really I am clueless. If she giggles, I smile. If figures the rest out. I can see why you are upset. I understand it she looks angry, I get nervous because I don’t cost you a lot of money. You have every right to know how to respond. I am at the point where I — Camirose invite only the people you choose. But you say try to keep my back to her as much as possible you are very close to this friend and it seems you and pretend I am busy so that she doesn’t speak Dear Camirose, really like the boyfriend also. I’m surprised that to me. I don’t think I have a hearing problem My home has been designed to serve as a she is comfortable with your decision. Maybe because the only person this happens with is her. high-end rental for corporate and or wealthy she is saying she understands because she is It just seems she is constantly mumbling. Maybe individuals who want to spend time on Fire Island embarrassed for what he caused as well as the she’s talking to herself. I don’t know. in luxury. The home has been professionally fact that they are unable to fully compensate you The worst of it is her sour breath. She renovated and decorated and is in pristine for the repairs. Fact is beach homes often take drinks coffee all day: hot coffee, iced coffee, condition. I spared no expense. I have a custom a lot of wear and tear. People are vacationing. cappuccino, espresso – it’s gross! She’s a young designed hot tub, a glass wall looking out towards They are back and forth to the beach traipsing person and is always talking about meeting the ocean and high end finishes in every room. I sand and water inside. They spill food on someone. But all of her dates never seem to go take great pride in all of this. furniture and don’t worry about electric bills, etc. past the first date. Could her mumbling and coffee On one of the weekends I wasn’t renting it Yet you built a high-end expensive home that breath have something to do with this? Should I out, I invited my very close friend to my home you rent out. I’m surprised it hasn’t been trashed say something or just keep politely nodding? for the weekend. She brought the man she has before. Just because people have money doesn’t — Speechless been dating for the past 15 years. He is a lovely mean they are any more careful than those with man who is a bit hard of hearing and very less. In fact, sometimes people with more worry Dear Speechless, absentminded. When he used the bathroom on less about things. It’s nice to have a beautiful It seems that you have more than one issue the second level, he left the bathroom sink running home but as a beach rental that may have been here. One is the fact that you can barely hear causing it to flood, damaging the ceiling and a bit much. If you start eliminating everyone that or understand her. The second is her breath. walls in the room below. Clearly, I was not happy. causes problems in your house, you may run out The third is her dating status and the fourth is The cost for repairs to my standard far exceeds his of friends to invite over. what exactly you should tell her about all of this. ability to reimburse. We are in different financial So I’m figuring that you are asking me several worlds and although he offered to compensate me — Camirose different things. As far as the constant talking and for some of the damages I know it will not even low volume, I think you have every right to tell cover the cost of labor, never mind materials. her that you are finding it difficult to talk to her I told my friend that she is more than welcome to Names and locations have been changed to protect because you are busy working and when you come back to my house anytime she wants…solo, the privacy of individuals. Questions for Camirose? are having a conversation she needs to speak as I prefer he not return. She seems to understand. Write to her at [email protected].

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 40

BOOK REVIEW >> by Rita Plush

“Chance” by Thomas McGann on the highway, McGann sets up a deadly feud The dialogue between the gang members and Adult Fiction that starts on the road and ends with Chance grap- among the pole dancers and bar girls is believable, Agapi tis Glossas Publishers $19.95 pling with his values and conscience in a surprising raunchy and obscene. Since this is a family newspa- courtroom scene. per, no quotes will be offered. HE CRANKS THE throttle. His A gruesome piece of work A motorcycle hobbyist, McGann knows his way bike jumps “with the slight chirp is Biggie, the sadistic Sergeant- around a sissy bar [a passenger backrest] and will of rubber,” and off goes Chance at-Arms of the Legionnaires. tell you how to load a motorcycle onto a van and Raccrock, tall, handsome, Moto- “Pockmarked above his splotchy “ratchet it in place with tie downs.” He does a fine cross Hall of Famer, poster boy for rubber banded beard,” he faces job when talking bike talk: “I had her up to one forty motorcycling – he models for riding down Chance in a local eatery. and change and she still had lungs left,” or describ- duds and bike accessories on the When Chance disgraces him in ing the open road: “…the telephone poles flashing by side. From the San Berdoo Raceway front of his men, Biggie becomes like mute sentinels bored with his passing.” When it in Southern California to an Indi- big trouble, later on doing terrible comes to building a handgun with a CAD program an sweat lodge in Wyoming, back harm to Chance’s waitress friend, and a 3-D printer that could pass through a metal around to a courtroom in Rancho Victoria, and Demetri, the eatery’s detector – he had me convinced – his descriptions Mirage, California, author Thom- owner. But Biggie gets his in a are taut and to the point. In other instances, a bit of as McGann takes us on a gritty ride, showdown with Chance, the details judicious editing could pare down some chapters to showing us biker gang life with of which leave nothing to the imag- a few paragraphs without the reader wanting more. Chance as the good guy, a loner who ination and everything to this The same thoughtful pruning could be used to wants the “freedom to ride when, reviewer’s wish that McGann had good effect on Victoria’s impassioned forgiveness where, and how [he likes] without being hassled.” used a little restraint describing Chance’s splintered speech in the closing chapter’s courtroom scene. To A columnist with this publication, McGann’s finger bone gauging out Biggie’s eye, “driving deep- say who she forgives and why would be giving away first book, “Riddle of Riddles,” a young adult fanta- er and deeper…probing for entry into the brain.” But too much, but she takes too long to say it, and the sy novel (reviewed in this column in 2015) also hey! That’s me, and this is a book on biker gangs. wordiness of it dilutes its power and the emotional involves a journey, but we know we’re in adult-on- A drinking man who enjoys “two quick beers impact her feelings deserve. ly country when a few pages in, a buxom blond in after his morning coffee” and likes to wind down That said, there’s plenty to keep your adrenalin cutoffs and black leather bikini top asks Chance with “some fresh Nepalese black hash,” Chance has pumping in this book, and if you ever wondered for his autograph, offering “her ample breasts a romantic side and falls for Katherine, English what it might be like to hit the open road and have a barely containing her cleavage” as the site of teacher/summer waitress. When they meet again run-in with a biker gang, bug the gang’s compound his endorsement. after having been apart for months, the reader gets to with a wad of Black Jack chewing gum and frame a Amping up the action, two people are killed know how Katherine feels about Chance: “You haunt lowlife, belly up to the bar my free-spirited friends, early on in the book, and when Chance disses the me, haunt me like a face in the mirror peering out of order a “Red Bull and vodka…” and crack open the 13th Legion motorcycle gang by riding past them the steam, a face trying to find me through that fog.” biker-black cover of “Chance.” THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 41

SYBIL SEZ!!! >> by Sybil Bruncheon

Sybil’s Hysterical Histories! Fair Harbor – 1910

BACK IN THE SUMMER of 1910, something very strange happened on Fire Island. Whether it was the reappearance of Halley’s Comet on its 75th return, or some strange magnetic disturbance in the Earth’s core, beachgoers at Fair Harbor noticed that they were somehow “squishing” as their frantic calls into police stations and doctors’ offices reported. Folks of all ages and walks of life stated that their clothes were growing tighter by the day, that it was harder to walk in and out of the waves on the seashore, that their very footprints in the sand seemed deeper and more pronounced. Children found that they were out of breath just throwing beach balls to each other or playing fetch with their dogs, which were thicken- ing and slowing down as well. Physicists, geologists, oceanologists, magneto-filiacs, and astronomers were called in from around the world to study and somehow make sense of the phenomenon, and them- selves began within a week or so to suffer the same symptoms. A sort of gravitational “crushing” with a parallel lethargy, a need for naps, and an unshakable desire to lie down on the sand even in fine dinner clothes consumed everyone. It was only because of the glorious summer weather that July, and the tre- The Ronkonkoma Republican Ladies Luncheon Club. mendous expense of summer homes either rented or purchased that kept throngs of people from fleeing to say, “Hey, Enid, I don’t think the porch swing that time was uneducated in crust-construction, fill- in abject terror from the area, even as newspapers will hold you…or the porch period!” No one want- ing and berry skills, and nut-knowledge. Her books reported increasing signs and cases. ed to discuss the massive weight-gain that everyone “Pumpkin Perfection” of 1919, “Why Mince Mat- It was a Mrs. Sandra-Anne Crumly of 1213 was seeing because…well, because everyone was ters!” published the following year, and “This is My Gawking Booby Walk in Fair Harbor who ventured gaining it! Trouble climbing out of the surf? Deeper Pie and I’ll Stuff It!” in 1923 became central read- a theory that stunned and infuriated everyone… at footprints in the sand?? Tighter bloomers??? Give ing at all cooking/baking schools in America. And first! She had opened her Crumly’s Crumbly Cakes ya’ three guesses why!!! lastly, Mrs. Crumly, as a widow, honored her late & Cookies Confection-Perfection Café in Febru- Meanwhile, Mrs. Crumly was declared by the husband by building the Abner Alouishius Crumly ary in time for the Valentine’s Day crush of sweet- Sept. 12 issue of the NY Times as Long Island’s Center for Diabetes and Diseases of the Pancreas in heart gift-giving. Even in the winter, it had been a first multi-millionaire widow, self-made!! Although Patchogue, the first institution dedicated solely to the great success and a great comfort to the newly wid- women’s suffrage groups idolized her and heaped new science around diabetes. Sadly, it burned down owed Sandra-Anne whose husband Abner had died honors on her, the majority of the population of New in a peculiar Cherries Jubilee Flambé accident in the that December in a bizarre Christmas tree accident York and New Jersey began to resent her. But, like cafeteria. Interestingly, Mrs. Crumly herself lived to involving tinsel and a frayed electrical cord… in most junkies today, they were in thrall to their “deal- be 103… the same as her weight.) the bathtub. Mrs. Crumly’s treats were so enticing er.” General obesity in this region of the country that nobody could resist them. Many of the most sky-rocketed and is traced by nutritionists and food Breaking News from the CNN News Desk! abstinent and righteous souls in the vicinity (see anthropologists back to Mrs. Crumly and her unreg- RONKONKOMA, NY – The Ronkonkoma Point-O-Woods, A History of Prayer By the Sea, ulated spread of sugar-based concoctions…literally Republican Ladies Luncheon Club celebrated their by Dr. Merndyl Merriwether, 1897) found them- a “dessert disaster” of the worst kind. 43rd anniversary with their “Come As Your Favor- selves over-indulging in (Postscript: Readers ite Movie Star Extravaganza!” Each year the gals her pastries and, heav- may be comforted to know spend months on their costumes and accessories, en-forbid, beginning to that Mrs. Sandra-Anne hair-dos and make-up to come as their Hollywood be shaped more like Phi- Crumly did invest her vast idols. And some of them are really quite convinc- listines than like John fortune in good works ben- ing! From left: Mrs. Lurleen Hankin as Joan Fon- the Baptist! It was as if efiting the communities taine, Mrs. William Guttle as Sally Ann Howe, Mrs. the entire town had sud- of the South Shore and Deedee Tepp as Eva Gabor, Mrs. Scottina Mootlin as denly been overrun by Fire Island. She personally Radie Harris, Mrs. Francine Wendover as Ethel Mer- gangs of drunks, NOT financed the nationwide 4H man, Mrs. Gertrude Julian as Rosalind Russell, Mrs. on “demon-rum” but on Club’s “Pie Baking, Eating Freda Quarles as Angela Lansbury, Mrs. Kiki Tun- rum babas!!! & Throwing Festivals” to whistle as Patrice Munsel, and the caterer, Mr. Cliff Everyone in “polite increase pie-science among Hunt as his mother....who was an usherette at Grau- society” was too busy young homemakers of man’s Chinese Theatre. Details at 6, plaster of Paris being polite! Too polite The Gravitational Crushing Incident of 1910. the future. No little girl of footprints at 11. Stay tuned!

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 42

ENVIRONMENT >> by Karl Grossman

“Belloneyland”

FIRE ISLAND HAS LONG been a paradise south in which Robert Lozcalzo, CEO of Tritec, an East panacea so often touted when it actually arrives. Our of Long Island and thanks to the Fire Island National Setauket real estate firm developing the Ronkonko- groundwaters are increasingly being tainted by new Seashore it will remain that way, paradise preserved. ma Hub project for Suffolk County, was quoted as pollutants, and the Sound and the sea are increasing- But on the mainland of Long Island, an intense push stating, “When completed, the hub is expected to ly at risk. Real estate development, when allowed led by Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and encompass about 50 acres, with 1,450 apartments recklessly, can amplify these impacts even further. development interests is underway for new massive and 545,000 square feet of retail and office space.” In recent years, the traditional model of suburban development. There’s no question that Ronkonkoma, north of sprawl is being replaced with merely a new vari- Just across Great South Bay from Fire Island in Long Island MacArthur Airport and where the ter- ant: just higher densities and rentals shoehorned in the community of Sayville there is a plan to convert minus of the electrified central branch of the Long between the existing poorly planned subdivisions Island Hills Golf Club into a 1,365-unit apartment Island Rail Road is located, is appropriate as a com- and worn-out shopping centers.” complex that’s been given the name Greybarn Say- muter hub. But to create a new small city on top of A push in recent years by Suffolk County exec- ville. It is meeting strong citizen resistance. that is something else. utives for development is not new. Bellone’s prede- For a decade my family lived in Sayville adja- Subsequently, the county executive’s office cessor, Steve Levy, a decade ago promoted a $400 cent to the Island Hills Golf Club. In the winter we announced it has accepted a proposal to build on 40 million project in which an arena, hotel, restaurants, kept our boat in our backyard, ready to be moved to acres of county land, just south of the core of the retail stores and 1,215 housing units would be built a slip on the bay for the other two-thirds of the year, Ronkonkoma Hub, a complex involving a 17,500 on 225 acres of county land in rural Yaphank. The to enjoy the bay and Fire Island. It’s a pretty com- seat sports and entertainment arena, a 500 room scheme – dubbed “Levyland” – went nowhere. munity now facing transformation into high-densi- hotel, two ice rinks, 160,000 square feet of medical Perhaps the Ronkonkoma Hub and the ty development. research space, and 90,000 square feet of retail stores adjoining major development might be dubbed An even a bigger development project is slated and restaurants. This is to be a $1 billion project. “Belloneyland.” for just north of Sayville in Ronkonkoma. Here Bel- Even Newsday, which through the decades has The development push has caused civic groups lone is promoting what, in a recent essay, he spoke sounded a clarion call for Long Island development, to unite – Suffolk’s East End isn’t immune to this of as “the $650 million Ronkonkoma Hub mixed-use can’t stomach the Ronkonkoma stadium plan. “A new development drive. Having paved over Nassau project.” In his essay, published in Long Island Busi- Big Arena in Suffolk County Makes No Sense for County and a lot of western and central Suffolk, the ness News and entitled “A New Suburbia is Coming Long Island,” was the headline of a recent editorial bulldozer boys are seeking to finish up their activi- to Long Island,” Bellone wrote: “Long Island is in the in that publication. ties “up the Island” building bigger and with greater midst of historic change. Today, a new suburbia is on Suffolk’s first County Executive H. Lee Den- density than ever before. the horizon, and Suffolk County is leading the way.” nison, five years after he left office after 12 years, Commenting in the stadium-plus scheme — in a He advanced a vision for Suffolk that is not wel- called for steps to “strongly limit” Suffolk’s popu- column headlined “Suffolk’s Grand Plan for a Sports comed by one planning expert, and met with outrage lation to 1.5 million people. This was in 1978 when Arena” — Joe Werkmeister, editor of the Riverhead by a good number of readers in the article’s online there were 1.28 million people here. Now we are at News-Review and The Suffolk Times, wrote: “As comments. 1.5 million. More than that, he said, would be “too the details trickled out, this arena proposal became Newsday described a presentation to the Long many people for the resources we have…fresh water, more and more absurd.” Island Regional Planning Council in November, air and space.” Murdocco also criticized the process through As Bellone “touts his record of suburban trans- which the builders of the stadium-plus project were formation,” wrote Richard Murdocco on his The selected – top-down by a handful of Suffolk Coun- Foggiest Idea blog, “Long Island continues to slow- ty officials. He asked, “Why did Suffolk County ly suffocate under its own weight. It’s not surprising seemingly shy away from the public eye? … Like that the county’s chief policymaker who has priori- most other things on Long Island, what’s old is new tized economic development over sound communi- again,” he wrote. Indeed, the push to pave over Long ty-driven and environmental planning efforts might Island has always been an inside job. be a bit too quick to take a victory lap. Bellone’s “new suburbia…may not be the

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

THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 44

NYC THEATRE >> by Leonard Feigenblatt

“Desperate Measures”

“DESPERATE MEASURES” began at the York Theatre It has a bouncy score by David Friedman and a very clev- Company last season, where its sold out run was extend- er book and lyrics by Peter Kellogg. The cast (in alphabeti- ed several times. It has now moved to New World Stages. cal order), Gary Marachek, Lauren Molina, Sarah Parnicky, “Desperate Measures” is very loosely based on William Conor Ryan, Peter Saide and Nick Wyman, all are excellent. Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure.” It is set in the ‘wild It is directed and choreographed with great flair by Bill Cas- west’ where Johnny Blood is sentenced to hang for shoot- tellino, who keeps the action moving and the laughs coming. ing a man in self-defense. His sister Susanna, who is about “Desperate Measures” very deservedly won the Outer to take her vows to become a nun (Sister Mary Jo), tries to Critics Circle Award Best Off Broadway Musical, the Off plead his case to Governor von Richterhenkenpflichtgetru- Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Musical and the ber. The governor becomes smitten with her and says he’ll Drama Desk Award for Best Score and Best Lyrics. agree to pardon Johnny Blood if she surrenders her virgin- ity to him. The Sheriff, Martin Green, has an idea: Susanna should agree and then in the dark of his bedroom the town’s New World Stages bar hostess, Bella Rose (who is in love with Johnny), will 340 West 50 St. switch places with her. New York, NY 10019 “Desperate Measures” is just a whole lot of good fun. www.desperatemeasuresmusical.com

“Teenage Dick”

“TEENAGE DICK” is a modern adaptation of William cerebral palsy, yet onstage he is fearless. He is in constant Shakespeare’s “Richard III” set in a high school. movement, bounding across the stage, doing pratfalls. His Richard, who has cerebral palsy, is class secretary but Richard is charming and confident. Is Richard a victim of craves power and wants to be class president. He sets out the years of endless taunting by his classmates or is he just to manipulate his friends, defeat his rival, then charm his vengeful and craves power – or both? rival’s ex-girlfriend into going out with him. Mike Lew’s play closely follows Shakespeare’s plot and The performances are all uniformly excellent. Shannon characters, but it is the performances, especially Mozgala’s, DeVido plays Buck, Richard’s confidant and best friend that make this play shine. who spits out her sarcastic lines with caustic wit. Alex “Teenage Dick” runs at the Public/Shiva Theater through Breaux is Eddie, the dimwitted football star quarterback, July 29. and current class president; he is to the manor born. Tiffany Villarin is Anne Margaret, a conglomeration of the wom- en in the life of “Richard III,” the girl Richard sets out to Public Theater charm. She gives a very touching performance. 425 Lafayette St. The standout performance comes from Gregg Mozga- New York, NY 10003 la as Richard. In real life, like his character, Mozgala has www.publictheater.com

New York Music Festival

Now in its 15th year, the 2018 New York Musical Festival (NYMF) will take place from July 19-Aug. 15. It is the largest musical festival in America. This year the festival will present 12 new musicals at the Acorn Theatre at Theatre Row, 10 musical readings at the Studio Theatre at Theatre Row, and eight musical concerts at The Green Room 42.

For tickets and more information, visit www.nymf.org.

The Acorn Theatre at Theatre Row The Green Room 42 The Studio Theatre at Theatre Row Inside YOTEL, Fourth Floor 410 West 42 St. 570 10 Ave. (between 41st and 42nd streets) New York, NY 10036 New York, NY 10036

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 45

HEALTH & WELLNESS >> by Donnie DeSanti

Breakfast of Champions

AS A KID, CEREAL WAS MY JAM. I could crush a couple of bowls no problem. My mom, however, restricted me to one, maybe two bowls, often worried about the sugar. Captain Crunch was an all-time favorite, along with Golden Grahams. Oh, I can still taste the sugary milk at the bottom! That was always the best part! But one cereal that always caught my attention, but I just couldn’t get into, was Wheaties. As a sports fanatic, I was always drawn to the top athletes that graced the cover of the boxes. If you were lucky, you’d even get posters of your favorite athlete inside. But Wheaties, your cereal was always a let down! It was too bland and never made for that delicious sugary milk. Wheaties catch phrase claimed it was the “Breakfast of Champions.” As a gullible child, I was actually convinced that Michael Jordan was shoveling a bowl of these cardboard flakes down each night would end by 8 p.m. before each game. And so, I did too. All I wanted Although this was the time period that worked was more Honey Combs, but MJ was not eating for me, you are welcome to change the schedule to Honey Combs… fit your lifestyle. For decades, the Wheaties marketing team (and nutrition experts) has promoted that breakfast is the Here’s what I liked: most important meal of the day. But what if it’s not - Real simple to follow. all that important, and well, just another meal? - One less meal to have to worry about during A new hot topic in the “health world” is the idea the day. of intermittent fasting. This theory is based on a - Freed up more time to be more productive (you’d routine in which you are feasting for certain hours be surprised how much time eating takes up). and then fasting (consuming only liquids) for the - Digestion felt great, especially at the end of the remainder of the day. During the extended fasting day. I was never bloated before bed. period, you are giving your body a break from - Loved the feasting part of it. You can eat as much digestion and letting it concentrate on healing other as you want! areas of the body, i.e. excess fat, repairing cells - Can help with weight loss. and muscles, inflammation. The idea of fasting has - Fewer heavy meals to weigh me down so mental been considered a method of healing for centuries. focus and energy improved. In fact, animals naturally fast when they are sick or distressed. When following an intermittent fasting Here’s what I didn’t like: diet, you are suggested to eat for 8 hours and then - I love breakfast and eating it at noon is not fast for 16. For example, you will eat from noon the same. until 8 p.m. and then fast for the next 16 hours. - If you are not trying to lose weight, you really At this point, you probably have a ton of ques- need to make sure you are eating enough calories tions and concerns, like “Oh my God, I’d be starving during each feasting period. during the day!” Actually not really. Before writing - Sometimes when food wasn’t accessible during this, I had decided to try intermittent fasting myself my feasting hours, I ended up fasting for a longer for the past month. Here’s what I experienced. period of time. (Disclosure: I took the weekends off.) - Working out in the morning was a little more diffi- After my alarm went off at 6 a.m., the first cult in a fasted state. thing I did was drink plenty of water. Thanks to the night’s sleep, I already had eight hours in a fasted All in all, I believe intermittent fasting could state under my belt. Only eight more hours to go… be a valuable tool, and have since recommended it My first meal would start around 11 a.m. or to many clients who are too busy or simply don’t noon. (My schedule often dictated the time.) During know what to eat for breakfast. Try it for yourself the next eight hours, I feasted. I mean I really ate! by starting with one day or alternating days. You Because it is such a short window, you will want to may find it fits perfectly into your schedule and make sure you pack in the calories. My final meal leaves you feeling amazing.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 46

Margalit Like: 1925-2018

MARGALIT LIKE, ONE OF DUNEWOOD’S her student’s personal development, and further ideas, and offered practical advice that truly made a longtime founding residents, passed away at the age instilled these values in her children, as well as her positive difference,” wrote her husband Irving. “She of 92, on May 24, 2018. Margalit (“Marge”) was the grandchildren. did not hold back on saying critical things about pol- beloved wife of Irving Like, Esq. for 69 years, and Alongside her husband, she ardently supported iticians who did not ‘walk the talk’ or were duplici- mother of their three children. and worked for other Long Island professional and tous, no matter what their political affiliation.” She was born in the Bronx, New York, on Sept. consumer groups Margalit was buried in a private family gravesite 5, 1925, the daughter of Benzion and Ethel Del- in their success- funeral at Beth Moses Cemetery on May 25, 2018. man, immigrants from Israel and Russia respec- ful efforts to cre- She is survived by her husband, Irving Like, her tively. Her parents would divorce during the Great ate the Fire Island three children, Robert Like, MD, MS; Sharon Like, Depression, and contact between Margalit and her National Seashore, Esq.; and Steven Like; her two grandchildren, father had been consequently severed. She went on decommission the David Like and Daniel Like; and her daughter-in- to attend the City College of New York earning her Shoreham Nuclear law, Maria Like. The family is longtime residents bachelor’s degree in education, and subsequently Power Plant, block of Babylon and Bay Shore, as well as Dunewood received a master’s of library science degree from offshore oil drill- during the summer months. C.W. Post. As a wife and mother, Margalit would ing, and in numer- reunite with her father 30 years later. ous other important Memorial donations in her honor may be made to: In her career, Margalit served as a teacher in environmental pro- • The Center for Environmental Research and New York City’s public school system, where she tection initiatives. Coastal Oceans Monitoring (CERCOM) of found fulfillment in her work with children of His- “She was a great Molloy College panic and immigrant populations. She believed listener, served as a • The American Macular Degeneration Foundation in the power of books and learning to assist in sounding board for • The American Diabetes Foundation

Brianna’s Law Pushes for Increased Boater Safety By Anika Lanser

IN JANUARY OF 2018, Gina Lieneck proposed sure that everyone boating on the water Brianna’s Law to the New York State Legislature. has had proper safety courses, just like The law, which pushes for increased regulation of they would to drive a car.” boater safety, is named in honor of Gina’s daughter, For instance, the legislation would Brianna Lieneck, who tragically passed away in a require that children between the ages boating accident in the Great South Bay on Aug. 17, of 10 and 14 only operate a power ves- 2005. Brianna’s parents were also critically wound- sel under 10 horsepower, and under the ed in the accident. supervision of an adult (defined as above the age of 47 percent since 2015. According to Newsday, five Now, the law has been sponsored by New York 18) who has completed an in-person boating safe- boaters in Suffolk County and two boaters in Nas- Senator Phil Boyle and New York State Assem- ty course. sau County died in 2016. blywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre, in their respec- The proposed legislation includes a provision In a letter published via the New York Safe Boat- tive houses. The legislation stands on the brink of that requires all power-driven vessels used in teach- ers Alliance website Lieneck argues, “We need to improving boater safety in the state. Senator Boyle ing on-water training be equipped with a propel- make our waterways safer. We need to do whatev- remarked, “I was very moved by Gina’s story and ler guard. The law also adds a mandate for a Blood er it takes to make sure the inadequate laws adopted touched by her advocacy. And I agreed with her that Alcohol Content (BAC) test within two hours of by New York State be strengthened so that all boat- I think it’s outrageous, and I’ve felt this for a very an incident when a fatality or serious injury has ers take a mandatory in-classroom boating safety long time, that somebody could go and purchase a occurred. It also increases the fines and possibility class, not just those born after 1996. I will not rest large boat and not require any training on operating of imprisonment for operating a boat while intox- until we prevent tragedies on our waterways and it. I think we need to change that and this is a great icated, and puts the operator at risk of seizure of save lives.” Lieneck’s petition on change.org to call piece of legislation that’s going to do just that.” the boat. These provisions have the potential to help on New York State Legislators to pass Brianna’s The law pushes for a number of improvements families like the Lienecks, whose boat was purport- Law currently has almost 4,500 supporters. to the current navigation law to strengthen the edly struck by an intoxicated boater, but the delay On June 19, Brianna’s Law passed in the New education needed to operate boats. The law outlines in BAC testing made these allegations difficult to York State Assembly. The New York State Legisla- a number of significant requirements for education prove. This left the Lienecks with little recourse in ture session ended before the law could be voted on and protocol in the event of an incident. Senator the aftermath of their tragic crash. by the State Senate. Boyle summarized, “Right now, you’re required The legislation works to address the legacy of “I’m amazed by Gina and the passion she has only if you’re 23 years or younger to take a boating lax boating laws in New York, and to limit the use brought to this. She’s up in Albany every week class and you can do that online. [The law] would of drugs and alcohol while operating a motor ves- advocating to all the senators and assembly people require that everyone of all ages who purchases a sel by increasing the consequences for operating a to support this legislation in memory of her daugh- boat, has a safety training class, take a test, and it boat while intoxicated. A 2016 report by the U.S. ter. Senator Boyle said. “We’re going to keep fight- has to be in person. We may be willing to compro- Coast Guard indicated that boating deaths in the ing, whether it’s this year, next year, and the year mise on this, but the bottom line is we want to make state of New York had increased by approximately after to make it happen.”

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 47

HISTORY >> by Thomas McGann

The William Floyd Estate – Gunpowder and Gumption

THIS YEAR CELEBRATES the 300th anniver- sary of the William Floyd Estate, one of the gems of the Fire Island National Seashore. The estate is the ancestral home of William Floyd (1634-1821), one of only 56 original signers of the Declaration of Independence. The estate is not contiguous with the rest of the FI National Seashore. It sits on 613 acres of forest, fields and marsh land approximately two miles south of Sunrise Highway in Mastic Beach, fronting both Narrow and Moriches bays. It contains the Old Mas- tic House, and 12 out buildings reflecting three cen- turies of American life. The estate has an interesting, if somewhat convo- luted, history. The William Floyd Estate The English born William “Tangier” Smith (1655-1705) who had been mayor of Tangier, Moroc- co (hence his nickname), was granted patents (land two children with his second wife, Joanna Strong. were guilty of treason, putting their lives on the line. grants) in America in recognition of his service to Mary Floyd, William Floyd’s eldest daughter, mar- That’s a lot of gumption, guts and grit. the Crown. He added extensive purchases of various ried Colonel Benjamin Tallmadge in the Old Mastic Later, Benjamin Franklin is quoted as having Indian lands until by 1697, he had accumulated more House. Tallmadge would later play a major role in said, “We must, indeed, all hang together or, most than 81,000 acres, stretching from the Southampton the fate of the Manor of St. George. assuredly we shall all hang separately.” But the last Town line to Shirley, from Route 25 in the north to William Floyd became active in politics, becom- sentence of the Declaration of Independence says it the Atlantic Ocean in the south, including 24 miles ing a delegate in both the First and Second Conti- best. “And for the support of this Declaration, with a of Great South Barrier Beach nental Congresses. In the Old firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, now known as Fire Island. Mastic House he hosted the we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our For- In 1718, Richard Floyd, likes of Thomas Jefferson, tunes, and our sacred Honor.” William Floyd’s great-grandfa- James Madison and the Mar- Let that sink in for a moment – or two. ther, emigrated from Wales to quis de Lafayette. During the Revolutionary War both the Old Mas- America where he purchased But Americans were chaff- tic House and the Manor of St. George were occu- 4,400 acres from the Tangi- ing under the yoke of British pied by British military forces. William Floyd’s er Smith family. That acreage policies – particularly taxation estate was occupied by a company of horsemen for included all the “beach, mead- without representation. Sparked the remainder of the war, and he and his family were ow, and bay” stretching six by the Stamp Act in 1765, fol- forced to flee to Connecticut. Judge William Smith miles north from lowed by the Boston Massacre, III took his family to Kingston, New York, after the to one mile west of the Forge and the battle of Lexington and British garrisoned the Manor of St. George. River. He also acquired the Fire Concord, the Founding Fathers The manor was also the site of a glorious Ameri- Island tract. first drafted and then signed the can victory. Recognizing its strategic location, a few Both families built homes – Declaration of Independence hundred yards from ocean access at Smith Inlet, a a mere three miles apart. With on July 4, 1776. deep-water channel nearly a half-mile wide at the the death of William Tangier William Floyd (1634–1821) However New York mem- time, the British built a triangular fort surrounding Smith his property was divided bers of the Continental Con- the manor using stockade fencing 12 feet high. between his sons. His Setauket gress were in a predicament Tallmadge was one of the leaders of George estate, being considered the more valuable, was inher- when it came to signing this historic document. Washington’s Culper spy ring (as recently report- ited by his oldest son, while the Mastic property was Floyd and his fellow delegates could not vote on ed here in the Fire Island News – you dare not miss left to the second oldest. The Manor of St. George was the matter of independence until they received for- an issue!). He raised a force of 80 unhorsed dra- completed on the Mastic property about 1709. mal authorization from New York’s home assembly goons who rowed whaleboats for five hours, 15 Meanwhile, in 1724 Nicoll Floyd inherited prop- to do so. Without it, all they could do was standby miles across the Long Island Sound. They then erty from his father Richard and proceeded to build and wait. Said authorization arrived later that sum- marched 20 miles across greater Long Island in a the first portion of the Old Mastic House, a six-room, mer, and Floyd was the first of the New York del- drenching rainstorm that forced them to delay their two-story, wood frame home. Nicoll Floyd estab- egates to place his signature upon being given the attack until their gunpowder dried. At first light lished a successful plantation, expanding the home green light to act. they hacked their way through the stockade fence as his wealth and family grew. Upon his death in These days we celebrate the signing of the Dec- shouting “Washington and glory!” and, after a brief 1755, he left the property to his oldest son, William laration of Independence by going to the beach, and firefight, captured the fort. Floyd, signer of the Declaration of Independence. ballgames, and backyard barbecues with scarcely a Using British cannons and gunpowder, Tall- Floyd married twice. He had three children with thought of how momentous that act really was. Only madge turned the guns on a British warship lying at his first wife Hannah Jones, who died in 1781, and 56 men signed the document, and by doing so they Continued on page 48

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 48

The Old Mastic House was passed down through that span the centuries. The original deed for the Continued from page 47 nine generations. William Floyd’s great-great-grand- property is on display – without the purchase price – daughter, Cornelia Floyd, donated it to the National which remains unknown to this day. There is much THE WILLIAM FLOYD ESTATE – Park Service in 1976, and it has been meticulously to see and learn by taking the hour-long tour, which GUNPOWDER AND GUMPTION maintained ever since with few changes. includes the Vista View, still providing its spectacu- The new exhibit in the Old Mastic House this lar panorama of the Great South Bay and Fire Island. anchor in the bay and sank it. He then chose a par- year celebrates its 300th anniversary. The exhib- The house is open every Friday-Sunday, and Fed- ty of 12, commandeered British horses, and rode to it showcases the building’s unique combination of eral holidays, from Memorial Day weekend through Coram where they set fire to a strategic store of hay Veterans Day. Tours start at the British had provisioned there. The next morning 10 a.m. and run to 4 p.m. they rowed home without the loss of a single Amer- every half-hour. The tours ican life, and with ample stolen supplies and sever- are free. al prisoners. On July 7, 2018, start- After peace was restored by the 1873 Treaty of ing at 11 a.m., there will be Paris, William Floyd returned to Mastic to find his an unveiling of the first-ev- plantation nearly destroyed, stripped of all its crops, er historic marker dedicat- livestock, timber and household goods. He restored ed to the Old Mastic House. the plantation while at the same time the Smiths The marker is a gift from rebuilt the Manor of St. George. the Narrow Bay Historical William Floyd was involved in politics for much Society. Musicians will be of his life. He often served as presidential elector, strolling about the grounds was a member of the New York State Senate, and playing a variety of colo- was elected to Congress in the first election under nial and/or civil war songs. our new Constitution. Upon retirement he held the There will be an anniver- rank of Major General in the New York State Mili- Colonial, Victorian and Greek Revival architectur- sary cake-cutting at noon accompanied by light tia. Toward the end of his life he devoted his time al styles. Walk through its 25 rooms and celebrate refreshments. Tours will be conducted as normal. to his new farm along the Mohawk River in upstate 300 years of American history from its original post Monumental history was made in the Old Mas- New York. He passed away in 1821 at the age of 86 and beam construction, to its 18th century doors, and tic House on the William Floyd Estate. Celebrate the and is buried there – although his original headstone its 12 over 12 windows. The exhibit features beau- festivities! Remember, it’s free. For information, call remains in Mastic. tiful ceramics, glassware, textiles, documents, etc. 631-399-2030.

Continued from page 33 and without arms, and going through the schooling of the regiment. This changed the previous policy of DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL: just assigning personnel to regiments. Each compa- FRIEDRICH WILHEM VON STEUBEN ny commander was responsible for the training of AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION new men, but actual instruction was done by ser- geants specifically chosen for being the best. On May 5, 1778, on General Washington’s recommendation, record. He was given travel money and left Europe Congress appointed Steuben inspector general of the in 1777, arriving in the United States with his Ital- army, with the rank and pay of major general. ian Greyhound Azor (which he took with him every- During the winter of 1778-1779, Steuben pre- where); his young aide-de-camp Louis de Pontière; pared “Regulations for the Order and Discipline of his military secretary, 17-year-old Peter Stephen Du the Troops of the United States,” commonly known Ponceau (rumored to have been his lover); and two as the “Blue Book.” Based on the training plan he small estate in the vicinity of Rome, on land granted other companions. had devised at Valley Forge, it was used by the Unit- to him for his military service. He was later appoint- He arrived at Valley Forge on Feb. 23, 1778, and ed States Army until 1814, and affected U.S. drills ed a regent for what evolved into the University of reported for duty as a volunteer. Washington appoint- and tactics until the Mexican-American War of 1846. the State of New York. ed Steuben as temporary inspector general. He talk- Steuben helped Washington demobilize the army Steuben did not marry and had no children. At ed with the officers and men, inspected their huts, in 1783, and aided in the defense plan of the new Valley Forge he began close relationships with Ben- and examined their equipment. Steuben established nation. He was discharged from the military with jamin Walker and William North, both military offi- standards of sanitation and camp layouts that were honor on March 24, 1784. He became a U.S. citi- cers in their 20s, which are considered to have been still customary more than a century later. He creat- zen by act of the Pennsylvania legislature in March romantic. Steuben formally adopted Walker and ed a plan to have rows for command, officers, and 1784. The war over, Steuben resigned from service North and made them his heirs. A third young man, enlisted men. Kitchens and latrines were on oppo- and first settled with his longtime companion, Wil- John W. Mulligan Jr., also thought of himself as one site sides of the camp, with latrines on the downhill liam North, at his retreat on Manhattan Island, where of Steuben’s “sons” and inherited Steuben’s exten- side. The internal administration had been neglected he became a prominent figure and elder in the Ger- sive library, collection of maps and $2,500 in cash. and no books had been kept on supplies, clothing or man Reformed Church. From 1785 until his death in Steuben died on Nov. 28, 1794, at his estate in men. Steuben enforced the keeping of exact records 1794, he served as president of the German Society Oneida County, and was buried in a grove at what and strict inspections. of the City of New York, a charitable organization became the Steuben Memorial State Historic Site. He could only speak and write a small amount of founded in 1784 to assist German immigrants. The estate became part of the town of Steuben, New English, so Steuben wrote the drills in German, his In 1783, New Jersey gave him the use of an York, which was named for him. secretary then translated the drills into French, and a estate in Bergen County now known as Steuben Von Steuben Day is celebrated across the coun- secretary for Washington translated them into English. House, which had been confiscated from Loyalist try in mid-September, with parades, dance, music Colonel Alexander Hamilton and General Nathanael Jan Zabriskie in 1781, and he received full title to and traditional German food and beer. The first Von Greene were instrumental in assisting Steuben in the estate in 1788. In debt, Steuben sold the proper- Steuben Parade was held in New York City in 1957. implementing a new training program for the Army. ty to a son of the previous owner, and it remained in The annual parade on Fifth Avenue takes place on Steuben introduced a system of progressive train- the Zabriskie family until 1909. Von Steuben moved the third Saturday of September, and is followed by ing, starting with the schooling of the soldier, with upstate New York, and settled in Oneida County on a an Oktoberfest-style celebration in Central Park.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 49

POLICE BLOTTER >> by Timothy Bolger and Danielle Lipiec

NPS/Fire Island plates did not match the vehicle. SATURDAY, JUNE 23 › A fire alarm falsely set off at the During the investigation the › A man was released by OBPD Palms Bay Hotel. National Seashore driver became combative and due to cancellation of his ICE › Disturbance of children playing – Dead Whale was placed under arrest. detainment. on the beach with frisbees and › Officers responded to a balls reported to OBPD. and Horseshoe JUNE 25-27 report of property damage › Noise complaint was made at › Residential driving has at 153 Bay Walk. 597 Bayberry. Crab Patrol ended on Fire Island National › A call-in report of a drone › An elderly man was struck by a Seashore for the summer hovering over the complainant’s person riding a bike at night. JUNE 15-24 season. Rangers have issued › Two noise complaints called in: › property was made at National Park Rangers continue seven violation notices to resi- 174 Cottage Walk. 657 Ocean Breeze Walk and to make contacts for underage dents driving outside the corner house of Bayberry drinking, possession of conditions of their permit. SUNDAY, JUNE 24 and Midway. controlled substances, operating › A complainant called reporting a › Two summonses issued to man personal watercrafts in park During the weeks of the full female screaming in the vicinity at Housers Bar: the first for waters, and violations of the moon, National Park Rangers of Midway and Dehnhoff Walk. attempting to purchase alcohol New York State nudity law. have been working closely with › Five summonses issued for open with a fake ID and the second other law enforcement agencies container violations. for disorderly conduct. JUNE 23 AND 24 to stop the increase in horseshoe › Six summonses were issued for › National Park Rangers crab poaching. MONDAY, JUNE 25 open container violations. conducted two searches for › Officers responded to a call missing children at Lighthouse from Mermaid restaurant of SUNDAY, JULY 1 Beach. Both children were Ocean Beach Police an intoxicated male in front of › An aggravated man that was located and reunited with Department – the location. under arrest was brought to their parents. › Summons issued to a male for Southside Hospital for eval- Elderly Man Struck unlawful possession of mari- uation on account of heavy SUNDAY, JUNE 24 juana. The man was released on breathing. The man was later › by Nighttime Rangers observed a pilot whale a desk appearance ticket. issued two summonses: one for in the surf west of Davis Park. Bike Rider riding a bike on the weekend, It was alive when it came ashore, TUESDAY, JUNE 26 the other for disorderly conduct. but died during the night. The MONDAY, JUNE 18 › Report made of a boat left › Noise complaint made at next morning, rangers assisted › Two summonses issued for indi- running at Windswept. 620 Bayberry. the Atlantic Marine Conserva- viduals driving a cart without a › A man was apprehended at tion Society (AMCS) in moving summer permit. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27 Albatross by OBPD after the whale above the mean › Noise complaint called in at 666 › A boat disturbance was reported ordering five beers and refusing high water mark and securing Ocean Breeze Walk. in the bay north of Windswept. to pay. His debit card declined the area for a necropsy. The › A call-in complainant stated three times, and he was visibly deceased whale was buried on a man entered his hotel room THURSDAY, JUNE 28 intoxicated. A summons was site. AMCS reported that at while he was sleeping at the › Officers responded to a issued for disorderly conduct. this time the cause of death is Palms Bay Hotel. complaint of garbage on the › Noise complaint made at unknown but the whale most street at 454 Dehnhoff. 329 Baywalk. likely died of an illness. AMCS TUESDAY, JUNE 19 › Three female minors were › Missing golf cart was reported sent tissue samples to a lab › Two summonses issued for indi- caught shoplifting at Hanalei at Garden Center. The vehicle for further analysis. In recent viduals driving a cart without a and Kula’s. The individuals were was soon after recovered by weeks rangers have also assisted summer permit. brought in to OBPD for ques- its owner. AMCS with deceased dolphins, › OBPD assisted federal and tioning the next day. a pygmy sperm whale, and a state agents in the interview of › Summons issued to a man for a SUFFOLK COUNTY: humpback whale. a person connected to a fraud state fire code violation. Two Found Dead on case. Police later discovered the › OBPD was called to CJ’s Boat in Cherry Grove individual was a French national Restaurant & Bar in regard to a By Shoshanna McCollum who was wanted for theft in both false ID and underage drinkers. East Hampton and Jamaica. The Two individuals were pronounced case in Jamaica included a theft FRIDAY, JUNE 29 dead by Suffolk County Medical of $175,000 from the individual’s › Officers responded to a false Examiner’s Office at 2:25 p.m., on former employers. fire alarm at the Ocean Beach Sunday, July 1, 2018. Peter D’An- › Noise complaint made at Community House. cona, 54, and Tina Sgambati, 51, › both residents of Moriches, were FINS Chief Ranger John Stewart assists AMCS Windswept. Officer responded to a call-in property check at 583 discovered unresponsive aboard a with necropsy of pilot whale in Davis Park. 35-foot Mainship vessel moored be- (Photo courtesy of John Stewart) THURSDAY, JUNE 21 Bayberry Walk. hind Cherry’s on the Bay Restaurant › Summons issued to a woman for › Noise complaint made at › and Bar, in Cherry Grove. Suffolk A car operating at a high rate of an open container. Said woman 597 Bayberry. County Marine Bureau responded. speed crashed into a bollard at had an active warrant from › Call-in report of wake damage the boundary with Carbon monoxide poisoning appears Arlington, Virginia. to one boat from another to have been the cause of the deaths, State Park. New York State › Officer came across a Coach bag passing boat was made at the however the matter is presently un- Police, Suffolk County Police which held U.S. currency. Matthew’s dock. and the Chief Ranger responded. der investigation by SCPD Homicide › Six summonses were issued for Squad. Anyone with information The driver and passenger were FRIDAY, JUNE 22 open container violations. uninjured. The car was not regarding this incident is asked to › Two noise complaints were call detectives at 631-852-6392, or registered and was uninsured. made: one at 207 Wilmot and SATURDAY, JUNE 30 The driver did not have a valid anonymously to Crime Stoppers the other at 193 Surf. › Summons issued to a man for at 1-800-220-TIPS. All calls will driver’s license or any form of public urination. remain confidential. identification. The car’s license THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 50

DIRECTORY >>

APPAREL CARTING East Islip Lumber PRINTING SERVICES Kline’s Stang Carting East Islip | 631-581-1869 Sir Speedy Ocean Beach | 631-583-5333 Ocean Beach | 631-567-7792 www.eilumber.com Bay Shore | 631-666-0900 Jim Gray Corliss on the Bay Sit Back & Relax PROPANE Fair Harbor | 631-583-5115 General Contractor Brightwaters | 631-968-7929 Ocean Beach | 631-848-9876 Ocean Beach Hardware www.corlissonthebay.com Ocean Beach | 631-583-5826 CHURCH K-Mac Electric ARCHITECTS Free Union Church Ocean Beach | 631-583-8130 REAL ESTATE Busch Associates Ocean Beach | 631-680-8074 www.kmacelectric.com Cherveny Real Estate Bay Shore | 631-969-0900 facebook.com/freeunionchurch Ocean Beach | 631-583-8718 www.buschassociatespc.com Loduca Associates Blue Point | 631-567-3144 www.chervenyrealestate.com Eric Schiller COUNSELING www.loducagc.com Advanced Counseling Assoc. Dana Wallace Real Estate New York | 917-886-6055 Ocean Beach http://www.eric-schiller.com Bay Shore | 631-647-9009 Lighthouse Mechanical Services www.advancedcounseling- Ocean Beach | 631-583-6500 631-583-5596 | 631-583-5653 associates.com www.realestateonfireisland.com AUTOMOTIVE Love the Plumber Fast Track Car Service 631-583-5612 Debra Goldsmith Bohemia | 631-750-3666 DANCE CLUBS Fire Island | 631-583-0435 www.fasttrackcarservice.com AquaLounge @ Pool Deck SGM Interiors www.debragoldsmithrealestate.com Blue Whale 631-335-7809 Mars Auto Parts, Delivery Pavilion [email protected] Netter Real Estate Bay Shore | 631-665-0890 Sip n Twirl West Islip | 631-661-5100 www.marsauto.net Fire Island Pines Vannoni Construction www.netterrealestate.com Ocean Beach | 631-583-5271 Molina and Rudden www.pinesFI.com RESTAURANTS Brightwaters | 631-968-2840 Maguire’s HOTELS Beach Street Pizza www.molinarudden.com Ocean Beach | 631-583-8800 Palms Hotel Ocean Bay Park | 631-583-8498 www.maguiresbayfrontrestaurant.com Ocean Beach | 631-583-8870 BAKERIES www.palmshotelfireisland.com Castaway Bar & Grill L & F Breads DELI/MARKETS Ocean Beach | 631-583-0330 Delivery, Long Island, Frank and Maria’s INSURANCE Fire Island | 631-374-4617 Cherry Grove Pizza and Restaurant Bay Shore | 631-665-0047 Lloyd’s Planning, LLC Cherry Grove | 631-597-6767 www.lfbreads.com www.frankandmarias.com 631-583-7253 | 212-689-0431 www.lloydsplanningllc.com CJ’s Restaurant & Bar BAIT & TACKLE Island Pantry Ocean Beach | 631-583-9890 Ocean Beach Surf & Sport Ocean Bay Park | 631-583-6300 State Farm Insurance Housers Bar Ocean Beach | 631-583-0196 Matty’s Gourmet Market Rich Mohan www.oceanbeachsurf.com Mohegan Lake | 914-528-1212 Ocean Beach | 631-583-7805 Ocean Beach | 631-583-8023 www.housershotel.com/housers-bar/ www.matthewsseafood.com BEER DISTRIBUTOR LANDSCAPING Maguire’s Beverage Barn The Pantry Property Maintenance Specialists Ocean Beach | 631-583-8800 Bay Shore | 631-665-0320 Ocean Beach, Delivery 631-968-7929 www.maguiresbayfrontrestaurant.com www.beveragebarnstores.com 631-583-SHOP (7467) Sit Back & Relax Pines Pizza Islip Cold Beer & Beverage GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Brightwaters | 631-968-7929 FI Pines | 631-597-3597 Islip | 631-581-0280 Gemaginations www.pizzainthepines.com www.islipcoldbeer.com Brightwaters | 631-666-4181 LIQUOR & WINE Grapes & Greens Rockwell Group (NYS Restaurant Assoc.) BICYCLES Kline’s Wine Imports & Distribution Farmingdale | 516-454-6364 Ocean Beach | 631-583-5333 631-803-3145 Babylon Bike Shop Schooner Inn www.grapesandgreens.com Babylon | 631-587-6709 Pride Embroidery Ocean Bay Park | 631-583-8498 www.babylonbikeshop.com Bay Shore | 631-968-7800 J&J Spirit Shop, Delivery The Hideaway Baywalk www.pridesembroidery.com Sayville | 631-589-0078 Corliss on the Bay Ocean Beach | 631-583-5929 www.Jandj-spiritshop.com Fair Harbor | 631-583-5115 Willy Nilly Trading Company www.corlissonthebay.com The LakeHouse Bay Shore | 631-665-5510 Family Liquor & Wine, Delivery Bay Shore | 631-666-0995 Ocean Beach Hardware www.willynillytrading.com Bay Shore | 631-231-8888 Ocean Beach | 631-583-5826 The Landing Main Street Discount HARDWARE Ocean Beach | 631-583-5800 Ocean Beach Surf & Sport Ocean Beach Hardware Wine & Liquors Ocean Beach | 631-583-0196 Ocean Beach | 631-583-5826 Bay Shore | 631-665-4985 SYNAGOGUE www.oceanbeachsurf.com Fire Island Synagogue HEALTH & WELLNESS MAIL & SHIPPING Seaview | 203-273-9297 The Bike Shop United States Postal Service Ocean Bay Park | 631-583-5111 Amavi Med Spa www.fireislandsynagogue.org Bay Shore | 631-665-3535 Ocean Beach | 631-583-7368 Your Trike Spirit www.amavimedspa.com THEATER Deer Park | 631-392-1344 MEDICAL/HOSPITAL Community House Theatre Dr. Jessica Goodrich Healthcare Wellness Center www.yourtrikespirit.com Cherry Grove | www.artsprojectcg.org New York, NY/Seaview | 646-623-1199 Bay Shore | 631-665-1666 BOAT TOURS www.drjessicagoodrich.com www.healthcarewellness.org TRANSPORTATION Captree Princess Healthcare Wellness Center Northwell Health Fast Track Car Service Bay Shore | 631-404-6817 Bay Shore | 631-665-1666 Ocean Beach | 631-583-8548 Bohemia | 631-750-3666 www.captreeprincess.com www.healthcarewellness.org www.fasttrackcarservice.com Northwell Health Fire Island Rentals & Charters Hudlz Cherry Grove | 631-597-6767 Fire Island Ferries 631-252-3964 www.hudlz.net Bay Shore | 631-665-3600 Northwell Southside Hospital www.fireislandferries.com Lauren Kristy Bay Shore | 631-968-3000 Bay Shore | 631-750-5359 HOME BUILDING/ www.laurenkristy.net IMPROVEMENTS/ VETERINARY SERVICES PADDLEBOARD/ Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island BUSINESS SERVICES REPAIRS KAYAK/SAILING West Islip | 631-587-0800 Paychex Payroll Services Brownie Companies/Construction Ocean Beach Surf & Sport www.vmcli.com 631-360-2700 ext. 5146422 631-605-0494 Ocean Beach | 631-583-0196 www.nyhouselifting.com www.oceanbeachsurf.com Conrad’s Plumbing & Gas The Dinghy Shop Ocean Beach | 631-583-5750 Amityville | 631-264-0005 www.dinghyshop.com Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com

Heartworm Disease on the Rise IT’S TIME FOR A heart to heart about heartworm. Did you know that heartworm cases have been reported in all 50 states? The disease has become even more prevalent in our area for a variety of reasons. Warmer winters have enabled mosquitoes to survive for longer periods throughout the year, and families in our area travel with their pets to warmer climates during the winter months as well. Also, financial limitations precipitated by difficult economic times have led pet owners to discontinue regular heartworm screenings and preventative therapy. Heartworm, also known as Dirofilaria immitis, is a parasite that infects dogs and less commonly cats. These parasites are actually found just outside the heart in the pulmonary arteries, which carry blood to the lungs to get oxygen and deliver it to the rest of the body. The heartworms are transmitted to our beloved pets by mosquitoes, which are required to complete the life cycle of the parasite. The process from the initial mosquito bite and injection of immature worms into the blood to the development of adult worms can take as long as six to seven months. If your pet is bitten and infected in the summertime, a heartworm test may not become positive until the winter or even later. In cats, the test may be negative despite an active infection. Symptoms of heartworm infections in dogs and cats are very different. In dogs, the symptoms are caused by the adult worms and vary depending on the amount of worms present. Signs can vary from none at all to coughing, exercise intolerance, difficulty breathing, and even death. Cats on the other hand have a different response usually associated with a reaction to the presence of immature worms and/or the death of an adult worm. Signs of an infection in your cat can vary from chronic vomiting, to asthma-like symptoms, difficulty breathing, and even sudden death. What if your pet tests positive for heartworm? Your veterinarian may recommend further testing and consultation with a veterinary cardiologist, with additional tests being necessary. Heartworm infection in dogs is treatable, and usually successful, but requires careful monitoring. Once they return home, they need to be strictly cage rested for at least a month or two to avoid potential life- threatening complications. Currently, there is no licensed treatment for heartworm in cats. Cats without symptoms are usually given time for the infections to resolve as their immune systems are usually able to rid them of the parasite spontaneously. If they have symptoms, the cats may be given antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, or if your cat’s signs are more severe, he or she may require hospitalization for oxygen and supportive care. Prevention is by far the safest and most economical way to protect your pet from this infection. There are a variety of effective and inexpensive preventatives for both dogs and cats, only available by prescription from your veterinarian, including: tablets (daily or monthly), injections given every six months, and even topical medications. It is important to have your pet examined and heartworm tested by your veterinarian prior to starting heartworm preventatives and annually thereafter at your pets’ regular veterinary visits. Finally, talk to your veterinarian about mosquito repellent for your pets. Human insect repellents are not recommended for pets because of the likelihood of ingestion of the insecticide when the pet grooms its hair coat, so make certain you choose an animal friendly insecticide to prevent harmful side effects for your pets. For more information about any of our services at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island, please visit us on the web at www. VMCLI.com or call 631-587-0800 and speak to any of our helpful client care coordinators.

THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 54 A Day in the Life of Fire Island Reader Contributed Photographs

Send your photos to [email protected] so they may be considered for publication in an upcoming issue of Fire Island News. Please limit submission to six images per news cycle, in jpeg format please.

“Fire Island Sunny Day” by Margaret Shaw is Summer Solstice in Kismet by Trevor Butterworth. presently on exhibit at FI Lighthouse.

The strange object near Talisman is still “Rowsbud” in the Great South Bay by Bullwinkle in Seaview by making people wonder. Photographer only Jamie LaBelle. Danielle Lipiec. identified himself as Marcus.

Another strange object that washed up this spring in FI Pines is still there. Screen Porch, Fair Harbor by Barbara Photo by Jeffrey Sharlach. Barton Sloane.

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com THE FIRE ISLAND NEWSPAPER • July 6, 2018 • PAGE 55

Your Source for Summer News on the South Shore www.fireisland-news.com We’re spending the summer right here with you, in case you need us

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