The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 2
contents The View From My Porch......................................................................................................................................... 16 Featured Article by Brendan Cahill
Look Past the Knees......................................................................................................................................................... 18 by Rary Gibson and Ann Holt
Kids’ Point: The Tunnel to Tower Run................................................................................................... 24 An Interview with Stephen Merola and my brother Chuck Rosenthal by: Emma Rosenthal Age 8
An Extraordinary Program for Extraordinary People................................................... 28 The Long Island Toy Lending Center by Colleen Moseman
The Park Project...................................................................................................................................................................... 29 Matthew Brennan updates 2015 Point Lookout Civic Playground Plans
22
Pastor Greg’s outlook from the
About Folks by Point Lookout
Community
Resident Bernie Kennedy
Church
in
Point
Lookout .............................................................. 6
............................................................19
Missives from the Point Lookout
The Latest News from The Point
Fishing Club
Lookout Library
.............................................................. 8
........................................................... 29
Point
Point Loookout Residents we lost
Lookout
|
Lido
Fire
Department News
in 2014-2015
........................................................... 10
........................................................... 30
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 3
outlook
community
magazine
Editor In Chief Ann Holt, Editor
and PLHS Vice President
Assistant Editor Maureen Dowling O’Sullivan Layout & Design Richard Zampella Reviewers Jessica Brennan Sinead Cain
T
he Community Outlook is published by the Point Lookout Community Church.
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS in the COMMUNITY OUTLOOK!! Up to 1/8th of a page $250 Inside front page $200 Middle pages $150 Inside back cover
Photography Robert T. Dowling Richard Zampella
Up to 1/4 of page
Up to 3/8th of page
$400 Inside front page,
$550 Inside front pages,
$350 Middle pages,
$500 Middle pages
On The Cover: Photo by Katelyn Mulvey
$300 Inside back cover
$450 Inside back cover
Thanks to the following people for contributing photos to this issue: Katelyn Mulvey, Monica Corning, Robert T. Dowling, Dory Edwards, Shana Guerin Rosenthal, Stephen Merola, Bernie Kennedy, Jessica Schatz Brennan and Brian Schatz.
Fees include publishing for the entire year. Send your advertise-
HELP SUSTAIN THE CO by sending in a small donation to PO Box 28, Point Lookout, NY 11569 We always welcome new submissions. Check the call for submissions in this issue.
ment via email as a .pdf or .jpeg attachment (with a minimum of 300 dpi resolution). Include in the body of the text clear specifications of placement (i.e. front, middle, or back). Ads can be sent to the editor at annholt@pointhistorical.org . Checks can be written payable to “The Community Outlook” and sent to PO Box 28, Point Lookout, NY 11569. Note: Fees must be paid in full before publishing.
stay The Community Outlook is designed to provide information of a general nature. The opinions and interpretations expressed within are those of the authors only. The Community Outlook does not warrant the accuracy and completeness of this newsletter, nor endorse or make any representations about its content. In no event will The Community Outlook be liable for any damages whatsoever arising out of the use of or reliance on the contents of this newsletter.
connected www.communityoutlook.org
www.facebook.com/TheOutlook The Community Outlook welcomes submissions of photographs for our cover. Send all submissions electronically to the editor annholt@pointhistorical.org Printing by: Russel Sparks at Perfect Run Printing located in Merrick, NY 516-546-1544
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 4
letter
from the editor
This issue was somewhat of a struggle to accomplish with the holidays slowing us all down but it is finally here and chocked full with both familiar and unfamiliar stories. It holds the regular columns that have graced the pages for decades and have a special place in our hearts; it also holds some surprises that we are excited to share. All of the articles give us things to reflect on… possible goals to attain… lessons to heed, especially as they open with the start of the new year. Above all, this issue is proof of the fact that there is SO MUCH hidden talent here in Point Lookout. The launching of the revival of the CO with the Fall 2014 issue brought on a tidal wave of support. Readers, your letters and your financial support were overwhelmingly gratifying. The future looks bright! Please keep in mind that we are always looking for volunteers to help out with all the aspects of putting a community journal in print. One aspect will be delivery. We are looking for Community Outlook delivery help preferably for each block. Like to take walks around Point Lookout and visit your neighbors? Also, we are always looking for writing contributions. We know you are out there, all you budding authors! We know that there are great story ideas out there in the community that should be published. Check out the article submission opportunities… We look forward to new stories! I am happy to feature one of the letters to the editor that I received from the last issue. It shows how much there is to learn about Point Lookout and its history. It shows how much Point Lookout has meant, and still means to those far away. Thank you Mrs. Hoffman for allowing us to print your beautiful letter. Enjoy!
Ann Holt, Editor Letter to the editor Dear Sir [sic], We certainly do enjoy the Community Outlook for it brings back many beautiful memories. My husband Reverend Fred Hoffman served as minister at Point Lookout from 1949-1952 when he left to serve in the Army during the Korean War. We met during his time there as I was a
So as it happened we were in the Army 21 years. Our son,
nurse at the VA hospital in Northport. We married in June 1950
Dan and Peg our daughter were born in Niagara Falls and
and our daughter Charon Beth was born Oct 1951. The people at
Germany as we traveled with him except for 2 years in Korea.
Point Lookout were so kind and loving that our decision to leave
Fred is now 97 years of age and in declining health but, still
was difficult. My husband had found that among the young
remembers warm memories of Point Lookout and its generous
people coming back from WWII that some of the conversation
people.
was unique and about circumstances he had no experience with, thus his enlistment in the Chaplain’s Corp during the Korean
We do wish you well in your new endeavor and blessings to
War. He served his three years and felt that with his counseling
all.
background and ability to help these young men and women he would serve longer.
Sincerely, Margaret Hoffman
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 5
PASTOR’S
OUT LOOK
“A good goal or resolution for faith and life is to just reduce it to a simpler form ”
N
ew Years many times helps us make a fresh start.
That’s a great resolution, reducing it to a simpler form.
We try different ways to accomplish this. New
Year’s resolutions are probably the most popular.
easier to understand. Jesus did this all the time because he was
I looked up the word resolution in the dictionary
not just looking to teach religious information, but wanted to
and I was surprised to find five different definitions before I
see lives changed. To see them transformed from self-centered
finally arrived at the one I think we mean at New Years. It said “a
to God-centered. Author John Ortberg, in his book, “The Life
firm decision to do something,” but the first definition said: “the
You’ve Always Wanted,” puts it this way; “rituals and religious
act or process of reducing to simpler form.” That sounds like a
disciplines are to life what calisthenics are to a game. Once the
good resolution to me!
game starts, basketball players get no bonus points based on
A good goal or resolution for faith and life is to just
how many free throws they shot in practice. The only reason to
reduce it to a simpler form. I say that with confidence because
practice them is to make them in the game.” Jesus says that the
I know that is what Jesus did. The religious leaders of his day
simple way to check your spiritual well being (to see whether
had hundreds of laws, regulations and rituals that they felt
you’re really winning the game) is to ask yourself a simple ques-
were absolutely necessary in pleasing God. They had so many
tion. Am I growing in my ability to love God and people?
they decided to ask Jesus which one he thought was the most
important. He said this: “Love God with all your heart, mind and
from the perspective of both definitions. It’s one that is “simpler”
soul. That is the most important one, the second is like it; Love
and worth my “firm decision to do something.”
your neighbor as yourself. All the other commandments and all
How about you?
A mark of a good teacher is to make things simpler and
That sounds like a good resolution to work toward
the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40)
God bless, and have a very happy and healthy New Year.
- Pastor Greg
Snow dust on the beach, Photo by: Jessica Schatz Brennan
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 6
Snow day in Point Lookout, photos by Katelyn Mulvey
A MESSAGE TO PROSPECTIVE AUTHORS Poets, Artists, Photographers, and Budding Authors:
The Community Outlook needs you to contribute to its pages!
Point Lookout Ghost writers up to 1500 words. Feeling shy to put
Columns to Contribute to :
out your work? Want to just test the water? This is an opportunity
About Folks- up to 1000 words. We seek a diversity of voices.
to just paddle around before setting full sail on open seas.
Group submissions are encouraged. Can be submitted in an
To the Collective Point Writing group submissions up to 2000
interview-based format as well.
words. Yes! Writing can be a social activity. Group submissions
Off the Point- 250-750 words written by Point Lookouters whose
are strongly encouraged.
hearts are here but they happen to hail from yonder seas.
Point Arti-Facts Mash Ups up to a half page, any visual or text-
Kids Point (Pre-K through grade 5) up to 250 words or half a page
based contribution using the Point Lookout Historical Society
from the point of view of our future Point Lookouters. This can
materials. Be creative!
be anything you want: book/ movie reviews, interviews, photo
Prospective new authors: Please send a short description of your
essays, poems, artwork- you are the author of your dreams.
proposed contribution or article idea to the editor at PO Box 28 or
Tween the Points (grades 6 through 8) up to 750 words. Again,
e mail it to: annholt@pointhistorical.org
this can be anything you want: book/ movie reviews, interviews, photo essays, poems, artwork- you are the author of your dreams.
Deadlines for article submissions are rolling: Sep. 1st, Dec. 1st,
Point Perspectives (grades 9-12) up to 1500 words. What do you
Mar. 1st and June 1st
think? What do you know? What do you want to share? Get published!!! Note: Research and writing using the Point Lookout Historical Society archives is eligible for a $50 award.
NOTE: Articles should be written in 12 pt. font and double spaced for easier review.
General Articles about Point Lookout up to 2000 words. Articles can be historically based and/or offer contemporary perspectives about Point Lookout. Can be co-authored.
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 7
-ROLAND DONAHUE
I
t is now the last week in January. Your reporter has just returned from a cruise to the warm and sticky islands of St. Thomas and St. Maarten, just
in time for what was supposed to be a blizzard. Oh, the vicissitudes of life! One blessing is that my wonderful wife, Martha, had time to enjoy the new snow shovel I bought her for Christmas. Fishing was not great this past summer. At our “fishoffs,” we had only four winning fish, and Kevin Halpin had two of them. Besides winning two “fishoffs,” lucky Kevin won 50/50 drawings. Our treasurer, Joe McGraw, also pulled a winning fish out of the briny. And then, there was our third winner who won the fourth fishoff – that venerable old gentleman from Garden City Avenue, Frank Burke.
Frank survived being
shot down over Germany during World War II; he survived being interned as a prisoner of war at the infamous Stalag 17; and survived being an Inspector in the New York Police Department for over twenty years. Yet, he said, nothing could compare with his winning a “fishoff” at Scotty’s Fishing Station in Point Lookout. Congratulations, Frank! It does one’s heart good to see an old pro come out of the bullpen and win the game. It is with regret that I announce the
POINT LOOKOUT
departure of Harry Blair, formerly of
FISHING CLUB
soft spot in my heart for old Harry as he
Freeport Avenue. Harry has returned from whence he came – Garden City. I have a was a classmate of mine at Regis High School in Manhattan. Harry, the late John Kenny (R.I.P.) and I were all members of the class of 1955. However, as the adage goes, the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Another member of the Regis family (although much younger) has joined the fishing club – Bernard Kilkelly, also of Freeport Avenue. Goodbye Harry – Hello Bernie!
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 8
“We would be remiss if we did not thank Dana Cullen Conklin and the Village Gardeners for the superb job they did sprucing up the little park where we hold our meetings” The Irish Dayworkers held its second annual banquet at the
Richie Chernoff has become a regular attendee at our meetings.
Fisherman’s Catch. Twenty people attended. Father Anthony
He is present every morning as is “Irish Mike” Butler. Mike used
Cardone, our acting chaplain and spiritual advisor said grace
to be on the fringe but now attends daily. Rumor has it that he
before the meal. A couple of new members, Bobby Walsh and
is seriously thinking of running for office.
Henry Holton were also in attendance. My apologies to Sonny Lencewski. In the last issue of the new We would be remiss if we did not thank Dana Cullen Conklin
Community Outlook, I neglected to mention Sonny as a founding
and the Village Gardeners for the superb job they did sprucing
father of the Dayworkers. He is our Polish Auxiliary.
up the little park where we hold our meetings (next to the IGA). The fountain is magnificent. We presume that the water will
Halloween was a bit slow this year. We had enough candy for
start flowing in the Spring. The property certainly has come a
about 200 kids. Only 48 kids showed up – and Ray Viola. The
long way from the premises formerly known as 23 Cedarhurst. I
doorbell rang about 9:30 PM. When I answered the front door,
guess a statue of Jimmy Reilly and me at the entrance would be
there was the Grim Reaper – completely covered from head to
out of the question. Just a thought!
toe in a black shroud and carrying a large scythe. It was too big to be a kid! He literally scared the living bejabbers out of this
Speaking of Jimmy Reilly – he took the whole family (13 of them)
old guy. For a moment, I thought Charlie O’Shea had come for
for a weekend sojourn at Woodloch Pines just after Thanksgiving.
me. Thankfully, it was my good friend Ray. He rated two pieces of
While up in the Poconos in nine degree weather, Iron Man Jim
candy. I sent him on his way to haunt the rest of the Dayworkers.
decided to take a little jog. He donned his shorts and went out for a little run. A Jungle Jim he’s not. Almost immediately he
We regret to end this article on a sad note, but we must report
became lost and wandered around for two hours wearing only
that we lost two longtime members of the fishing club, John
shorts. A couple of boy scouts eventually found him and led him
Lucas and Pete Barna. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their
to safety. As a result of his athleticism, he ended up in St. Francis
families and friends. May they rest in peace.
Hospital for a week with pneumonia. - Roland Donahue Thankfully, he’s almost fully recovered and back to normal. We’ve assigned him a guardian.
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 9
POINT LOOKOUT FIRE DEPART MENT
NEWS “Make sure CO2 detectors are in proper working order. If they go off, don’t hesitate to call”
W
inter has returned, and with it came one of the ongoing dangers everyone faces in their home... I’m speaking of carbon monoxide. “CO”, as it is also known, is a colorless and odorless gas that has also been called “the silent killer” as you could be exposed to it and never know it. The only way to detect its presence is through metering devices. I strongly recommend that you get them for your house, and especially place them in areas where there are appliances with an exhaust, like water heaters, or burners of any kind. Another common-place is in a garage, especially attached garages where cars are parked. Make sure you properly vent the garage with fresh air before you close the doors. Always make sure that your meters and/or detectors are in proper working order and follow all the manufacturer’s instructions. If they should go off, don’t hesitate to call for help, and get out of the house until it can be confirmed whether the gas is present. In early November, we hosted our annual Fire Prevention and Recruitment Open House with plenty of activities and interactive stations. Thanks to everyone who stopped by. The popcorn and the hotdogs were good, and the weather cooperated. In addition, we were able to host fire prevention in our school district, visiting all of the Pre-K and Kindergarten classes, and some of the 1st and 2nd grade classes. Much thanks to J.A. Heneghan’s for hosting Fire Department Trivia Night. Seven teams competed over the course of 2 hours. The dining room was full, and the spirit was lively. Teams from Point Lookout and Lido, as well as neighboring departments raced to answer questions. The scores were tight the whole night, including Action Engine Company
#1 and Lido Engine Company; but in the end, victory went to Renegade H & L Company #2 of the Point Lookout – Lido Fire Department. A good time was had by all and we look forward to more trivia nights in the future. Speaking of Heneghan’s… on Friday November 28, Action Engine Company #1 hosted a going away party for Kevin Kavanagh, better known to most simply as “KK.” Kevin has served the community for over 30 years with Action Engine, known as one of the best apparatus chauffeurs. He is a friendly face and helpful hand, especially during the snow, when he would use his quad with a plow to help clear people out. Fortunately, for him, he will be moving to warmer climates in Florida. We wish him well and thank him for his contributions over the decades. Sadly, I must report the passing of very long time resident and member Richard Spier, on October 18. Richard was a Life-Member, and a 50+ year member of the Lido Engine Company, as well as being one of the very first Lido residents to join the fire department. He was nearly 100 years old, and up until recently, drove every day to work. He served as Captain and as Secretary to the Lido Company for several decades. In addition, he served as Fire Commissioner with the fire district. His presence and counsel will be sorely missed. We wish the Spier family our condolences. In addition, I must also report the passing of Ex-Captain Dennis Guerin, uncle to Assistant Chief Brian Guerin, Captain James Guerin, Lieutenant Chris Guerin and Firefighter Shana Rosenthal. Dennis had served in the department during the 70s and into the 80s before moving to Florida. Even though he had not lived here in many years,
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 10
Enjoy the new year and be safe!
his home was always Point Lookout, and he returned often to visit family and old friends. In the past two years, he had been in constant pain, battling lung cancer. In September, family and friends (almost all originally from Point Lookout, including your author), met with him, as his health deteriorated. We went to see him, not knowing that it would be our last time with him. Early on November 12th, he passed away quietly and peacefully. Our condolences go to the entire Guerin family on their loss as he will be missed. Unfortunately, we were hit with another loss shortly after. Former Assistant Chief Ray Banvard, cousin of Assistant Chief Brian Guerin, Captain James Guerin, Lieutenant Chris Guerin and Firefighter Shana Rosenthal, passed away. Ray was a chief in the 1960s. At the same time, his father, Harold Banvard, was a Fire Commissioner and also a firefighter. One of Ray’s greatest moments came when he and his father responded to a house fire in Point Lookout and rescued several children from danger; an act which he received an award from his employer, the New York Telephone Company. Our condolences go to his wife Yvette, and the entire Banvard Family. In December, Nassau County lost Inwood’s former Assistant Chief Sanford in the line of duty, while fighting a fire in Woodmere. On
Christmas Eve, our members participated in honoring him as his remains were moved from North Shore hospital to Nassau County Medical Center. In pouring rain, members from fire departments all over the region lined the route and saluted Chief Sanford. Our condolences go to his family, and the Inwood Fire Department. That same rain prevented Santa from riding outside the fire truck this year. However, we were able to provide him cover inside the fire truck for a “dry run” so that he could send his Christmas wishes to everybody. 2015 has proved to be a busy year so far. We provide regular mutual aid assistance to Long Beach primarily for EMS assistance. In addition we have responded to alarms in Island Park and Freeport. This year, we also took delivery of the newest addition to our fleet. We were able to secure an army truck through the work of Commissioner Steve Weitz and Commissioner Craig Craft of the Nassau County Officer of Emergency Management. This unit is capable of driving through deep water and is very versatile and durable; it’s now designated as unit 2561. In February we had a serious auto accident at Lido Blvd and Donna Lane. Early on a Sunday morning, after a coating of ice, two vehicles collided, causing one to catch fire.
Thankfully the drivers were helped out, including one, who was trapped unconscious in her car. We used the “Jaws of Life” to remove her from the car. Both drivers were transported to the hospital and although they both had serious injuries, they were not considered life threatening. On March 1, 1980 we lost Captain George Grant during a fire in Point Lookout. Since then, every year, on the first Sunday in March, we hold a memorial service and mass at the Miraculous Medal Church. This year, the first Sunday in March happened to be on the 1st , and it also marked the 35th anniversary of Captain Grants passing. To commemorate this event, we gathered at J.A. Heneghan’s Tavern to dedicate a plaque, which now hangs there on the wall. Members of the Grant Family were present, and were extremely grateful for the support. Much thanks goes to Kevin and Jack over at Heneghan’s, and their family and the staff for their great support. Thank you from all of us. We appreciate all of the community’s continued support. Enjoy the New Year and be safe!
-Brian S. Guerin
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 11
ABOUT
FOLKS “If you know someone in town who you feel has had a particularly interesting life. . .”
M
rs. Eleanor DelBello, who resides at 83 Garden City Avenue, turned 100 years old last year and celebrated with a party at The Fisherman’s
Catch attended by more than 90 members of her extended family. That’s right – one hundred years old. She was born in New York City, grew up in East Harlem, went to All Saints Academy in Manhattan and was married to her husband, Barney, for 53 years until he passed away in 1986. She has been either a part-time or fulltime resident of Point Lookout since 1930. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with her and discuss topics as varied as life, love, war and nutrition. The following are some excerpts from that discussion.
The TheCommunity CommunityOutlook Outlook- -Winter Winter2015 2015| |Volume Volume67 67 - -www.communityoutlook.org www.communityoutlook.org| |12 12
So how does it feel to be 100 years old?
Q. What about your husband?
A. Well I’m very grateful to God I’m still walking, and for my wonderful family for keeping me alert. You know you need to be stimulated.
A. My husband’s name was Barney, although his real name was Bernard. He was a graduate of Notre Dame and Fordham Law School.
Q. Don’t you also have a sister down here in Point Lookout?
Q. How did you meet?
A. Yes. My sister Adrianne Albano. She lives at the end of Lynbrook, near the beach, in a house, that goes through to Mineola. She’s only 93. She came over last night for dinner.
A. I met Barney at a dance in New York City at a hotel. Those were the days. He was there with his brother. I was dancing. He saw me dancing and said to his brother: “That’s the girl I’m going to marry.” And he didn’t know a thing about me – my name, nothing.
Q. Do you think being 100 years old carries with it any special responsibilities?
Q. How old were you then? A. No – I don’t think so. Q. Do you have any advice for us mere mortals? A. Well, I was lucky enough…You see my father was a doctor, and he taught us how to eat properly. He always said: “Always get away from the table thinking you could eat a little more.” In other words, don’t stuff yourself. That was good advice. He was way ahead of his time. We had to eat whole wheat bread and plenty of vegetables.
A. 18, but I didn’t get married until I was 19, a year later, in 1933. My father told me you should have your children before you turn 30. That was good advice. Q. Don’t you have a son named Barney too? A. Yes, he is married to the youngest Goldsmith girl; they used to have a house on Lynbrook years ago. Q. How did you come to be in Point Lookout in the first place?
Q. Where did you live at the time? A. We lived in New York City where I was born – 116th Street in East Harlem. My father was a medical doctor and ran a clinic for the IRT. Our block was known as “Doctors Row” because there were doctors’ offices all down the street. We had a brownstone. On the first floor there was the reception area and the kitchen, on the second floor the office and on the third floor the bedrooms.
A. My father and mother had a beautiful house on Freeport Avenue. Since we lived in the City, they wanted to have a place for us children to go to in the summer. Q. How old were you then? A. About 15. Q. What’s your favorite thing about Point Lookout?
Q. How many children were in your family? A. The beach, of course. A. We were six – five girls and one boy. The oldest was Flora, then my brother, then myself, then Bianca, Adrianne and Vera.
Q. Did you spend a lot of time on the beach back then?
Q. How many of you are there still?
A. We did. And I was a good swimmer back then too.
A. Well there’s myself, and Adrianne and then Vera. Vera’s husband was a West Pointer – got his wings in three and a half instead of four years because we were at war.
Q. Lots of older folks choose to go into assisted living facilities. Why did you choose to stay in your home?
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 13
A. Because my family still loves to come to the beach, and this is the way they can do that. Everyday someone else from my family comes down, and I like to be available to them.
Q. What’s the most amazing discovery or invention that happened in your lifetime? A. The atom bomb – because it changed the course of history.
Q. How do you spend most of your time? Q. Overall, what’s the most important aspect of your life? A. I am an avid reader. I love to read. Q. Do you engage in any outdoor activities? A. I used to love to garden, but I really can’t do much of that anymore because I can’t see. I loved to grow herbs, like mint, parsley and basil, for cooking or for salads. I have a beautiful lilac bush at the far end of the garden. Q. What do you like to read?
A. My family – absolutely – they are wonderful. They are always there for me. Q. How many grandchildren do you have? A. I have 15 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Q. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your lifetime?
A. Novels mostly. Right now I’m reading a book by Follett. He takes you all over the world – it’s a wonderful book – brings in history and shows you, for example, how brutal Stalin was. I’m taking forever to finish it.
A. To get along with people. I don’t think I’ve ever made an enemy in my lifetime. I value friends.
Q. Do you have any specific memories of World War II?
to live long by.
So there you have it from a Point Lookout centenarian. Cherish your family, value your friends and eat your vegetables - words
A. My brother-in-law, the pilot… I remember just before the war ended we received a letter from a friend of his, a co-pilot, who told my sister that her husband had been shot down over a rice field. Oh my God, we thought he was going to be killed. We were hysterical. But then two days later the atom bomb was dropped and he was freed. Q. How did you feel about the atom bomb in those days? A. Well I thought it was too bad that so many innocent people were killed, but I also thought it was the only way we could stop the Japanese from killing our men. I didn’t believe in killing, but it was either kill or be killed. Q. Where did you go to school? A. All Saints Academy – the Sisters of Charity at 126th Street and Madison Avenue. Boy, were they sticklers. They made life miserable. They were so strict. I remember an elocution teacher we had. She was English. She taught us how to walk straight, with good posture, with a book on our head.
Mrs. DelBello with her son Barney at her home in Point Lookout. Photo Credit: Bernie Kennedy
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BOATING WITH THE BAYMEN: WORKING THE WATERS OF LONG ISLAND FOCUS ON FREEPORT
Long Island Traditions, dedicated to documenting, presenting and preserving the maritime traditions of recreational and commercial fishermen, is sponsoring two tours that explore the maritime traditions of Freeport. “Boating with the Baymen” will hold its first Freeport tour on Sunday, May 31 at 2 pm. The spring/summer tour for the season explores the traditions of fishermen and baymen, and bay house owners including the legendary Bob Doxsee of Doxsee Sea Clam in Point Lookout, bay house owners and boat builders John Remsen Sr. and his son John Remsen Jr., and Freeport baymen Joey Scavone, Collin Weyant and Lucas Krucher. Themes of the tour will include “looking backwards” and “bay houses” led by Doxsee and John Remsen Sr., working the waters including Remsen Jr., Scavone, Krucher and Weyant, and “The next generation” focusing on Scavone, Krucher and Weyant. The tour takes place on board the Miss Freeport, located at 85 Woodcleft Avenue, Freeport. Tickets are $40/adult, $20/ children under 16, with discounts for families and groups. Space is limited and reservations are required! To reserve your spot call Long Island Traditions at (516) 767-8803 or visit www.longislandtraditions.org. This program is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 15
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Photos © & ™ Robert T. Dowling The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 17
L E N N TU
O T TO
Me - “What did you do for this foundation, Mr. Merola?”
O
n September 11, 2001 the United States of America got attacked. Often with tragedy, comes greatness. I learned that lots of people started organizations to help those affected by 9/11. One of them is the
‘Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers.’ So I invited Stephen Merola, (who runs the Point Lookout team), and my twin brother Chuck (who ran this year) to lunch at J.A.Heneghan’s and asked them to talk about T2T. Mr. Merola told me that Stephen Siller was in his car off duty when the attacks happened. Unable to drive through traffic, he jumped out of his car, put on his gear and ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers to meet his fire company and help. He made it in; unfortunately, he didn’t make it out alive. So this organization was made in his honor by his family. This is what else they had to say: Me - “What exactly is “Stephen Siller’s Tunnels to Towers?” Mr. Merola - The event was put together by his family to honor him and to help support the families of firefighters who were lost that day. Over the years they started to do different things with the money, and as the event grew, their efforts are now used to help the Wounded Warriors come home from war and help rebuild their lives with new homes.
Mr. Merola - We put together a team that started with 3 people back in 2008; and when we did the first event, we came back awe-inspired to say the least. We saw how good it was and the benefits of what they were doing, so we came back to Point Lookout and reached out to other members of the fire department and said “you should join us next year!” We also reached out to the town and as we did, we focused on fundraising to help raise money to donate to this cause. Me - “How many people are on your team? Mr. Merola- We started with 3 in 2008 and we’ve grown to 224 this year in 2014. We kept doubling because every time somebody would join us, they’d tell their friends and families what a great event it was, and then they’d join. Chuck - That’s how I got onto the team, because my Mom ran last year and invited me this year. Me - Chuck, you are 8 and ran this year. Stephen, you are much older, did you find it difficult to run?” Mr. Merola - I did this year because I didn’t exercise enough in advance and didn’t practice enough, plus I’m getting older so it gets difficult, but I will get ready next year.
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 18
R E W O
iller S n e S t ev 4 1 : 20 t n i o P K I D’ S
Run
An Interview with Stephen Merola and my brother Chuck Rosenthal by: Emma Rosenthal Age 8 Chuck - It was hard for me too because everyone around me was so big and I’m small, and it’s almost 4 miles. But I did it! Me - Chuck what made you run this year, and do you think it’s something other kids should do? Chuck - I ran because it’s a good cause. And yes, kids should do it because doing good causes means you’ll be a hero one day if you keep it up. Me - If someone wanted to join or just donate, how do they get started? Mr. Merola - It’s simple and we do all the work. All someone needs to do is contact me on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/stephen.merola), or go to the “Tunnel to Towers” website (http://tunnel2towers.org/) and look for information about how to get involved. Me - What did you take from this experience? Mr. Merola - I took the feeling about how it is to pay it forward, how important it is to not let a tragedy win by turning it around and turning it into something positive. That’s what they’re doing and that’s what we do in Point Lookout. Chuck- It was so awesome and fun! ---------------------------------------------I’m proud that I know good people like my brother, Mr. Merola, and the people who ran on the team over the years. I hope you join next year. The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 19
2015
THE LIBRARY AS LIFE The View From My Porch - By Brendan Cahill This is a love letter to reading, to the role that libraries everywhere play in our lives, generally, and to the Point Lookout Library specifically.
I
grew up in a house filled with books, and I now live in
As children my brothers and I had two shelves each by our
a house filled with books. There are books in shelves,
bunkbeds. My childhood shelves held Enid Blyton, Susan Cooper,
books on and under tables, books in piles beside chairs,
The Hardy Boys, S.E. Hinton, Tintin, Asterix, biographies of Babe
even a wall of bookshelves in the kitchen for cookbooks.
Ruth and Lou Gerig, the Oz books, Greek Myths, Irish Legends,
My wife complains about this situation endlessly; she considers
Mark Twain, the Ladybird books. As we grew our individual
the growing sprawl a nuisance, but what am I to do? I like the
collections expanded into common bookcases so that one
convenience of having them near, and the memories that each
brother’s taste in American Indian books was next to another’s
one brings – a gift from my grandmother, or my parents, or one
rock star biographies, and so on. We got older, our tastes
with an inscription from a friend long gone. She’s asked that
changed, our books, bought for high school or college or train
perhaps we should have just enough to fit the bookshelves we
trips, kept growing. Now, as an adult and a father of children, I
own. I have suggested buying or building more bookshelves. We
love returning to my father’s home, to the time capsule of long-
are at an impasse and now my office is beginning to be crowded
loved memories of rainy days spent in comfortable chairs.
and I have taken to sneaking new volumes in. Thank God the children are growing and we can begin to cull through their
They tell us that no man is an island, and no collection is big
collections to make more space for mine!
enough to compare with a good public library; the amount and breadth of options for those using them properly today is
I cannot imagine life without reading. My relationship with
staggering – hundreds of thousands of books, cds, books on tape,
it – fiction, history, poetry, culinary, art, comic books – is
e-books, and films, and a library card is free.
uncomplicated, one-sided generous, and entirely requited.
The Community OutlookOutlook - Fall 2014 | Volume - www.communityoutlook.org | 20 The Community - Winter 201566 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 20
Point Lookout Library Under Construction
This was not always the case in the US, and is not the case in many
library system, supported now by our taxes, allows this quite easily,
poor countries today. We learn so much about one another through
but yet libraries are still in relative peril. Our own Point Lookout
our reading tastes. John Waters once wrote, “If you go home with
Library was a candidate for elimination but remained open due
somebody, and they don’t have any books, don’t sleep with them!”
to the strong advocacy of some (thank you Helen Stringer). I am
Except, of course, he didn’t exactly say, “sleep with them.” The point
admittedly biased, but in reviewing our tax bill, I can see no other
is a valid one, however it’s written.
public good that does so much for relatively so little. Our library,
thanks to the MacDonald family, is now a clean and bright place. It
In September, at the Za’atari refugee camp on the Syrian/Jordanian
is staffed by two of my favorite people – Mrs. Stillwaggon and Mrs.
border, I was lucky to visit the camp library. It was a modest, ad
Condon. It is a neutral place – a place for children, for the elderly,
hoc affair, about 200 books, and had no obvious reason behind
for gossips and even recluses. It’s warmer and less political than
it. There were, improbably, a large number of romance novels, a
the post office. Fighting is not allowed. It is not, my children were
book on tractor repair, some children’s books, including one of my
reminded many times this summer, the place for the shoeless or
favorites, Blueberries for Sal, some picture books on tigers, and
shirtless, but even that made me love it all the more.
the Washington Redskins, and there, on the top shelf, three books
by Jane Austen, two by Dickens, and Wuthering Heights. It took my
Our librarians recommend books and films, source books for
breath away.
high school essays, order our summer reading lists, provide us a
venue for poetry readings and yoga classes. There is no end to
There were 80,000 Syrian refugees in that camp at that time,
what role a library can play – concert hall, lecture theater, exhibit
mostly Arabic speaking, and this was the only library I knew of,
space, mahjong palace, but it needs input and support from our
and the collection was mostly in English. I thought of that lottery
community to do so. Does it need more computers? Does it need
moment when the right person, being able to get to that refugee
more quiet corners and comfortable chairs? Does it need more
camp, being able to get to that little library, being able to read
tables to write at? Should it be more quiet or more relaxed,
English, discovers the pleasure of reading Jane Austen, of how
should it be open more? Every library – haven that it is, has its
surreal her descriptions of 19th Century English life would mean to
own personality, and the Point Lookout Library should be distinct
someone there, and how wonderful and life-changing that would
from Long Beach Library, because it is in Point Lookout, because it
be on top of how wonderful and life-changing it is for anyone
reflects our community and our needs.
anywhere to read Jane Austen in the first place.
Hoping for a peaceful and happy New Year.
The industrialist Andrew Carnegie devoted most of his fortune to funding free libraries throughout the world, believing that
-Brendan Cahill
society was improved only through knowledge, and our public The Community Outlook - Fall 2014 | Volume 66 - www.communityoutlook.org | 21
Left to Right: Brian Farren (Dory’s husband), Bill Carlsen & Annemarie Byrne Gallivan
LOOK PAST THE KNEES A POINT LOOKOUT ARTS FLASH! by Rary Gibson and Ann Holt
P
oint Lookout is a hub of talent… It has been home
Thank you so much for your support! The play was originated
to many inspiring artists in the past and this article
23 years ago for my final project for an MFA in Creative Writing
demonstrates how it continues to be the home of
at Queens College. This past summer I exhumed the play as a
talented artists and musicians in the present. We got
result of Claire Curtin who kept on insisting that we do a reading
a chance to pose a few questions to playwright and co-director
to ‘hear’ the words. It goes without saying, that without her
Dolores “Dory” Edwards about her Off Broadway debut and the
prodding, I never would have done it. So in that sense I guess
origination of her recent creative work. We also interviewed
you could say it is a work that was somewhat conceived because
leading actress, Liz McMahon, whose first time performance
of Point Lookout’s Claire.
was absolutely stunning! Her story is an inspiration to us all. You never know what life can bring—so when life knocks on the
The play is self evident in that it speaks about war from
door, OPEN IT!
a mother’s point of view, and with that being said, I want the audience to reflect on the mother’s words and come to
“Look Past the Knees” is a play about war as well as a reflection
their own conclusion. Indeed, there are many autobiographical
on life’s transformations. However, the story behind the play is
components in the play and then there is a lot of ‘poetic license’
life transforming as well. It shows what can happen when we
as well. I was once told that if a story is not in a writer’s own
seize the moment and embrace challenges. It also shows the
backyard that it probably isn’t worth telling. I agree.
beauty of a community embrace and how the actions of others can fuel another’s inspiration.
So it was on a hot August afternoon this summer that I brought the revised play to the porch of Claire Curtin. Elizabeth Volker
-- So Dory, Congratulations on such a great accomplishment! There
from Cedarhurst Ave. was the other assigned reader. I was
was so much buzz around town about the play, and so much
nervous, as I had just returned from Hunter Mountain where I
representation from our community. We thought it would be a great
re-read the work for the first time in 23 years. Mind you I wrote
story for the CO too, so thanks so much for taking some time to talk
this play on a typewriter and was gently impressed with the
to us about it… Can you first talk about the origin of the story?
words that I had written.
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Left to Right: Bill Carlsen, Dory Edwards, Brian Farren, Liz McMahon, Bari Williamson, Elizabeth Carlsen, Annemarie Byrne
The play is self evident in that it speaks about war from a mother’s point of view, and with that being said, I want the audience to reflect on the mother’s words and come to their own conclusion.
C
learly, 23 years of teaching literature helped
finding a cast. I knew that I had to have an authentic Irish
me to develop as a writer so it was relatively
accent. To me that was most important. As I walked the beach
easy to revise the work. It was, after all, the
I ran into Donna Walsh. I asked her if she knew of anyone who
best that I could do. So.....Claire read the part
was Irish who could act. Her answer? Liz McMahon!!!!!! “She
of the daughter and Elizabeth the part of the ghost. Claire is
sings on her porch all day long. She would love to do it”. I
of course a playwright herself so she delved into the part with
grabbed my bike and drove to Parkside. Liz answered the door
ease, Elizabeth is a former English high school teacher and
and I asked her if she wanted to act in the play. She looked
she too was able to navigate the task without any problem.
at me as if I had two heads. I then asked her if she knew the
I read the work; I knew it needed another ending. Claire told
song “The Water is Wide” (an old Irish ballad). She sang and I
me ‘you know what you have to do’. I finished the ending and
knew she was the one. I gave her the script and she said that
sent it out for acceptance. Within two weeks The Manhattan
she loved it. For the next six weeks she memorized the lines
Repertory Theater accepted it. I was given the restrictions of
on her porch as her husband Ricky played her daughter. She
black box theater which is very minimal. I was in Block Island
should be given so much credit as getting the lines is not easy,
at the time and once again revised the ending and then
but we all know how she delivered them.
staged the play in my head with the few props I knew that I had. The journey was launched.
I found the daughter Elizabeth Carlsen, as she is the niece of Bill Carlsen who plays in the band St. Elvis (another Point
-- One thing that this play so poignantly reminded us of is the
Lookout adornment). I wanted music in the play and I wanted
amazing talent that we have in Point Lookout… How did this play
dance. According to Aristotle, a tragedy must have both, so
evolve as a Point Lookout production?
I contemplated my options. I had Bill, and I had Brian (my husband) and fellow St. Elvis musician but I wanted a violin
On Labor Day I returned to Point Lookout and was faced with
for the Irish effect.
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 23
Off to the streets I went and I ran into Bobby Lechler, long
The COMMUNITY… I would say that nearly 150 Point Lookout
time Point Lookout resident. He gave me violinist Annemarie
residents came to see the play on 42nd Street. They were
Byrne’s number and we now had a musical trio that brought the
supportive and heartfelt in their responses, which was incredibly
cathartic backdrop that would hopefully emote the audience.
positive. They are all excited for me and so very proud of Liz
Thus, the play unfolded the talented Liz and Annemarie: two
and Annemarie. I had a long conversation with Jack Keating
long time Point Lookout folk, and myself, a renter for 14 years.
about literature at a party at Bob Walsh’s house and I was very
I don’t know if I will achieve the status of ‘The Jets’ but one
impressed with his knowledge and love of writing. The talent in
must admit that the town has had some interesting renters
this town is a well kept secret and if it were all uncovered a lot
over the years. The dancer was easy, as my daughter owns a
of really fine projects could develop.
dance studio in Rockville Centre. I hired Colleen’s choreographer, Megan Lininger who is from Missouri and Bari Williamson
-- Isn’t that true? Well that just begs the question… What more
(from Oceanside) came on board as the angelic dancer. Finally,
can we do as a community to cultivate, support, and embrace our
my co-director was Jenna Hochman, a graduate of Muhlenberg
artists? That’s probably best left for another article perhaps!!!… So
College. She is from Merrick, NY and she works at the Left Coast
are there any more performances on the horizon?
Kitchen, another favorite place for many Point Lookout residents. Jenna was essential in helping the actresses to act, to walk, to
I have been asked when there will be more performances. We
look, to assert, to yell and to understate. I couldn’t have done
will return to Manhattan, but at this time, I would like to do
that without her expertise. Her father is a surgeon in Merrick and
some dinner theater at the Fisherman’s Catch. The side room can
he was incredibly impressed!!!!
easily be staged and it would be a great time for all to view a play, to have some good food and drink. As Ricky McMahon has
Rehearsals were all done at my house for the most part. My back
said, “the play opens up a dialogue” and that is essentially what
deck, basement and living room were the stage. Liz and I went
art is about. We also plan on doing ‘Summer Stock at the Point”
over lines in her house and often she could be seen walking
which will be held at the Salt Air Cafe in the back under a tent
and learning.
where folks can bring a bottle of wine and have some dinner at the completion of the show.
Another weird Point Lookout connection that served as some inspiration… the crucifix that I used in the last scene is from the
There is chatter about beginning a theater production company
Mahoney house on Mineola Ave. I found it and of course I cherish
here once again. I can only say that my second play is nearly
it. It is also rather eerie as I actually used the real letters that
done and Ken Wolf from the Manhattan Rep is anxious to read
my dad and uncle had written to my mom and my grandmother
and direct it. I told Sue Marcote that I have written a part just
during the war… Manhattan Rep has a lot of spirits for sure.
for her.
-- You got great reviews from the NYC artistic community and the
-- Liz, your performance was phenomenal! It was so moving, really
folks here loved it too… How would you describe the community
transported the audience into the mind and heart of a wise mother.
embrace?
It’s like you have been doing this all your life. You must have acting and singing experience? Long before I could recite the alphabet I was singing. My
had Carlsen, an absolutely beautiful singing earning her Left tomother Right: Bill Dory Edwards, Brian Farren,voice Liz McMahon, Bari Williamson, E the nickname “the Noble Call.” She would go with my Dad once a week to the local pub (if she had the energy after caring for her six kids) where she would sing like an angel to the delight of the townsfolk. I loved to come home from school to listen to my Mom sing while she was doing the laundry. Singing was like breathing for me. Singing was my Mom’s joy and how I sang myself to sleep in the double bed I shared with my sister.
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 24
My Dad would bang on the ceiling with the broom and tell me
were important for people to hear. Every time I read through the
to go to sleep up there. There were no bedtime stories for me
play, it reaffirmed for me that no matter how scared or terrified I
or my siblings. My parents were too exhausted after the toils of
was I just needed to do it. I am also very grateful for having met
their day….working, cooking, making bread, laundry, etc. There
the wonderful cast and crew working on this project.
were no fast food places or delis growing up in Ireland. -- Will you continue performing? I never had any acting lessons or experience except for acting out the verses of the songs I would sing as a child. Songs of
It’s not something that I have future plans for but I am OPEN
emigration; songs about our dying rebels and our fight for
TO LIFE!
freedom filled me with so many emotions, I usually ended up crying myself to sleep…this was my training for acting. “Oh
For those of you who did not get a chance to see “Look Past the
Father Dear I’ve oft times hear you speak of Erin’s Isle. Her lofty
Knees” at The Manhattan Repertory Theatre, you will still have a
hills, her valley’s green, her mountain’s rude and wild. They say it
chance. All events will be posted when possible so please watch
tis a lovely land where in a prince might dwell. Oh why did you
out for future dates!
abandon it the reason to me tell.” (Dear Old Skibbereen) I was raised with a passion for Ireland. We didn’t take up arms but we
Look Past the Knees will perform at the beautiful Merrick Theater
had an intense love for Ireland and our way of life. This is the
on April 26th at 6pm. Tickets are $20.00 and can be reserved by
era that I grew up in. I knew every song about the rebels from
mailing Dory Edwards at Doryedwards@aol.com.
top to bottom. As a child I was very proud to be Irish. This is basically where I began my love of singing – my mother and my love of Ireland. My love of music progressed to singers like Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen & Gordon Lightfoot as did my mother’s. -- What about your siblings? All of my family members are into music in varying degrees. Singing is just a part of life for us. My brother John, who lives in Denmark, is a musician, playing and singing in the band Downtown Dynt along with his son Brian. My niece Sarah and her husband Max have a band called Alchemy and they just produced their first album titled Freedom; eleven of the songs were written by Sarah. -- What made you decide to undertake this project? When Dory came to my home to ask me to be in her show, I thought maybe she was at the wrong house. She said, “Do you act?” That very question opened up something in me because
I didn’t say “no” and the second I read the play I thought the Elizabeth Carlsen, Annemarie Byrne play had to be heard, actually a better description would be “shouted from the rooftops.” The play for me wasn’t just about the ravages of war, it was also about the relationship of a mother and daughter. The play itself left me with no option than to say if you want me to do it I would be honored. I put aside my fears, memorized my lines with the help of my husband Ricky and focused on sharing Dory’s words that I felt
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The Point Lookout Civic Association
PLCA Membership Looking back on 2014, we were very pleased with the turnout for our events. While Children’s Day is always our biggest event, we were excited by the community involvement with our expanded Pumpkin Walk. Our inaugural Movie Night was also well attended, and we would like to make that experience an annual tradition. We do need your continued support if we hope to make these events regular occurrences. Please pay your membership dues at www.pointlookoutcivic.org, or by mailing in the form at the back of this issue with your check. We would like to expand our summer programming, but of course, our budget is contingent upon our total membership numbers.
Trick or Treat!, Photo Credit: Jessica Schatz Brennan
Civic’s e-blast system is the modern day town crier. Our Civic is an information source, from reminding us to lock our car doors, to telling us to get out and vote or to attend a local fundraiser. We do our best to keep you up to date on the latest regarding the dredging projects and LNG rallies. The e-blasts remind us to pick-up our beach tags, or to gather our beach chairs before the shed is winterized. We are expanding our communication outlets with our new Facebook page, and hope to become even more informative in the future. Your Civic Association is made up of volunteers that work hard for our community, and we hope that we are delivering. But how do you think we are doing? We want your feedback.
Halloween Pumpkin Walk Festivities 2014, Photo: Brian Schatz
Please like our Point Lookout Civic Facebook page and leave a comment, or send us an email at info@pointlookoutcivic. org. Tell us what you would like to see more of, and how we can continue to work together to enhance our fine community.
- Matthew Brennan PLCA
Having fun at the craft table Photo: Jessica Schatz Brennan The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 26
A MESSAGE FROM THE
PLHS
T
he Point Lookout Historical Society (PLHS) has
continued efforts of embracing community dialog and dynamic
been a committee of the Point Lookout Civic
in-reach and outreach programs. We welcome volunteers of all
Association since 1993. Our mission is to preserve
ages to give us your input and to help grow the organization.
and to educate the community about Point
Lookout’s historical heritage. The society serves as the steward
We are happy to welcome the Point Lookout Chamber of
of historical ephemera for which it maintains an archive and
Commerce for their monthly meetings and other activities. We
repository.
could not think of better roommates since we have the shared goal of making Point Lookout a better place to live. We are also
The Point Lookout Historical Society is continuing to make
happy to be the headquarters for the Community Outlook, as this
improvements to our new home at 23B Bellmore Avenue. In
is a resource to learn about our community’s history.
November, we hosted a housewarming and launched our first exhibit in the new space: Ye Olde Firehouse (1934 to Present):
Follow us on Facebook and twitter for announcements and
Community Conversations. Thank you to those who donated
random historical tidbits and check out our website www.
materials for the exhibit and to those who came to welcome us
pointhistorical.org.
to Bellmore Avenue. In December, we had a fun and interesting historical trivia night at J.A. Heneghan’s. Also as part of a grant
To volunteer please call: 516-897-0324.
from the National Endowment for Humanities, we hosted an archival primer for our new volunteers. We are looking forward
PLHS, Inc.
to more exhibits and workshops.
23B Bellmore Ave. P.O. Box 822
We are blessed to have a few new and dedicated volunteers that
Point Lookout, NY 11569
are helping us to process and organize our many collections. The key to PLHS meeting its challenges and growing as an organization will continue to be through our generous donors. We thank you because without your generosity, we would still be looking for a home. Our sustainability will also come from our The Community Outlook - Fall 2014 | Volume 66 - www.communityoutlook.org | 25
AN EXTRAORDINARY PROGRAM FOR EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE BY COLLEEN MOSEMAN
The Long Island Toy Lending Center for Children with Disabilities LITLC is a resource center located at the Town of Hempstead East Marina since 1996. The Center provides children with disabilities toys and equipment to help include them in the family and community through play. In monthly play sessions, toys are selected from an inventory of adapted and conventional toys. The director, Colleen Moseman, (a resident of Point Lookout) selects 4 to 6 toys to demonstrate to the child and family the possibilities of finding meaningful interaction with toys. At the end of an hour, families choose toys to bring home for one month to foster continued developmental growth of a child. The Center also offers time for play groups, respite and a social group for older members who have graduated from individual play sessions. The Center is funded through grants from the NYS Office of People with Developmental Disabilities and private foundations. Much of the funds come from fund raising events such as the Dance by the Sea held at the Bishop Molloy Recreation Center in September and a Regatta sponsored by the Point Lookout Yacht Club held at the Buoy Bar. This summer
TO BE CESSPOOL SAVVY
brought a new event organized by Donna Walsh and LITLC Board member Susie Tighe. “Bathing Caps for Colleen’s Kids” was a sale of colorful, frilly bathing caps sold to residents of Point Lookout. Residents gathered for a photo and splash in the water. It was great fun and a wonderful display of support for the Center. Participants in their caps were greeted by Sue & Ted (in caps) at Ted’s Fishing Station, where the staff at the Shell Shack, Dianna, Karen & Shannon, promoted ‘Yacht Sea for LITLC” and worked throughout the summer to raise funds for the Center. Volunteers from town and other communities play important roles in helping at the children’s programs, in the office, and lending a hand at the Dance by the Sea. The Center is grateful to Kate Murray of the Town of Hempstead for our building dubbed “Marina Del Play” and for the support from the many volunteers, donors, merchants and neighbors in Point Lookout. It was through the kindness of many that the Center was able to recover from Hurricane Sandy and carry on LITLC’s important mission of play for children with disabilities.
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Helpful tips from Point Lookout Civic Association Environment Commitee Chair Gerry Ottavino
LIBRARY NEWS As you are probably aware, the Point Lookout Branch of the Long Beach Public Library moved to 79 Lido Boulevard; the third location in the community since its 1967 inception. While the new branch continues the practice of offering a sampling of new adult and children’s books, providing wired and wireless computer access and presenting pre-school story times, a new service component is in development. This new service makes the Branch available for community meetings and programs. To that end, the first program was a series of Pilates classes and the second was two poetry readings led by local author Claire Curtin; both conducted this past summer. Upcoming is a Qigong classes scheduled to begin January 20, 2015 (see the January Library newsletter to register). The Library would like to offer a variety of educational, cultural, informational and recreational programs based on community input. Similarly, the Library will make the Branch available for community meetings. For financial, insurance and legal reasons, all events within the Library must be staffed by Library personnel; therefore, requests will be considered within the constraints of the Library’s budget and staffing. That said, the Library will also contemplate requests that would work best when the branch is closed. Point Lookout organizations and residents are welcome to make requests either to the Branch staff or the Library programmer, Edie Kalickstein at 432-7201.
As we embark on 2015, we hope you are as excited as we are by the prospect of our first capital project. Since we last updated the community, we have spoken at length with our local government leaders to share with them our efforts and to discuss our plans for the playground. Additionally, we negotiated with our vendor to secure some great pricing for the structures the community chose. All the while, we have continued fundraising with the goal of breaking ground in the spring. If funding allows and we can get all the proper permitting in place, we hope to replace all of the existing park equipment with new structures that will engage, challenge and inspire our children by the end of the summer. We are working with our local government officials in an effort to secure some capital improvement funding to replace the surfacing of the playground and upgrade the ball field area, both of which may come in phase two of the project. As of now, it looks like we will be able to install some of the larger play structures in the spring, waiting until after our next 5K event to raise enough to lay new surfacing. We can make our vision a reality with the continued generosity of the Point Lookout community. If you would like to support our playground project with a tax deductible donation, please fill out the attached brick form at the back of this issue and send it in to the address indicated. We have only a few benches still available, and our brick order will be placed in late spring Please contact Matthew Brennan at 718-809-1217 with any questions. We thank you for all the wonderful support we have received so far.
The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 29
IN MEMORIAM
PASSAGES A look at Point Lookout residents that we lost in 2014. Pause to remember friends and colleagues in the community who have left us during the past year.
ALEXANDER MACKENZIE MACKENZIE Alexander Ranald M.B, Ch.B., Ch.M., M.D., F.A.C.S., Diplomate American Board of Urology. Born in Dunfermline, Scotland January 16, 1928, died in Point Lookout, NY November 14, 2014. Beloved husband of Christine. Loving father of Andrea (Kevin McClancy), Donald (Kathy), and Murdo. Cherished grandfather of
RAYMOND BANVARD
Kyle, Brandon, Alanna, Fiona, Alexandra, and Callum. Graduated
Raymond Banvard passed away from a sudden illness on
in medicine from St. Andrews University in 1950 then emigrated
December 8th, 2014. Raymond was a resident of Point
to the United States. His career, spanning over 30 years, at
Lookout for over 70 years. He was in the Point Lookout/Lido
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center began with many years
Fire Department for over 50 years and was an Assistant Chief
of surgical training before becoming an attending surgeon in
& Captain. He was in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1959. He
the Urology Department. He retired as the Chief of Urology at
was married to his wife Yvette for 47 years. Loving father of
Long Beach Hospital, Long Island. Dr. Mackenzie was a captain
Timothy(Petronila) and Brian(Maria). Cherished grandfather of
in the United States Air Force from July 1957 July 1959 during
Christopher and Brianna.
the Cold War. He was a man of many talents, including classical pianist, artist, historian, golfer, and founder and past president
Devoted brother of Joan Meny and Diane Magrane. The
of the Motorcycling Doctors Association. Originally published in
Christian mass was held at Our lady of the Miraculous Medal
Newsday on Nov. 23, 2014
Church on December 15th, 2014.
See:
Retrieved and copied from the Point Lookout Civic Association
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newsday/obituary.
aspx?n=alexander-ranald-mackenzie&pid=173256007
eblast: January 24th, 2015
JAMES HENRY REID (Dec. 31, 1958 - Mar. 1, 2015) of River Vale, NJ formerly of
The family will receive their relatives and friends at Becker
Norwood, NJ.,Beloved son of Thomas and Marion (nee Dorsey)
Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ on Sunday,
Reid (long time Point Lookout residents). Loving brother of
March 8 from 2-4 and 7-9PM. The Funeral Mass celebrating
Thomas Reid and his wife Tara. Life partner of Laura Macho.
Jimmy’s life and faith will be held at Church of St. Andrew,
Cherished uncle and Godfather of Donovan Reid. Dear nephew
Westwood, NJ on Monday, March 9 at 10:30AM. Interment, Gate
of the late Rev. James Henry Reid, S.J.
of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY.
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In Memory 2015 ANN ALICE SOPIS Ann Alice Sopis, resided in Point Lookout for 52 years, sadly passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 2nd. at the age of 98. Alice survived her beloved husband Capt. Joseph Sopis. Beloved mother of Joan Brown and Patricia McAdam, dear grandmother of Jonathan Brown, deceased grandson Timothy
Photo Credit: Monica Corning
Brown, Scott McAdam, Jennifer Rachlin, Heather Pomilio and great grand mother of Ian Brown, Hana and Emma McAdam, Alaina and Jillian Rachlin and Dylan Pomilio. She is the last survivor of 5 sisters and 2 brothers. An icon in Point Lookout, she was the owner of Alice’s Captain Joe’s Anchor Inn since 1962, a favorite hangout for years which closed after Super Storm Sandy.
A place to give thanks and pray while grounded and connected to nature at OLMM. Photo Credit: Monica Corning
-Matthew Brennan
Angel Wings, A pensive, daydreaming angel in the OLMM Grotto, moments before a Winter sunset. Photo Credit: Monica Corning
“Life is what you celebrate. All of it. Even its end.” ~ Joanne Harris Sometimes love is for a moment...Sometimes love is for a lifetime. Sometimes a moment is a lifetime. The Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 31
Poetry Corner Featured Poem by Adele Gordon Ninety-five year old, Adele Gordon recently won 3rd Place in Nassau County Poetry Contest. She stays active and calls Point Lookout her second home.
Point Lookout You give us Fresh new mornings Tinted with promise Days where clouds Mass in profusion And throw us to our knees You lead and follow us As we walk out our storms On the warm sands of Point Lookout beaches The healings The solutions The thanksgivings The peace Unique is the “I� we become In this land near the water Abundant life and a wondrous body Creator God Let me always remember You gave me teeth Free GRACE And BREAD
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KID’S POINT By: Eldjima Djandabri-Holt “Ellie”
Check the kiosk outside the post office on a regular basis for the latest news from: THE POINT LOOKOUT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE THE POINT LOOKOUT CIVIC ASSOCIATION ALL OTHER LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS
The Community Outlook - Fall 2014 | Volume 66 - www.communityoutlook.org | 33
THE COMMUNITY OUTLOOK P.O. BOX NO. 28 POINT LOOKOUT, L.I., N.Y. 11569
The Community Outlook - Winter 2015 | Volume 67 - www.communityoutlook.org | 34