In this special section, we spotlight the visionaries, advocates, and trailblazers driving the movement for a more sustainable Long Island. Through meaningful conversations and inspiring action, these changemakers are leading the charge toward lasting impact. Join us in celebrating their achievements and commitment to building a better tomorrow.
PRODUCED BY
Dear Neighbor,
Nothing unites Long Islanders more than our natural environment.
From our beaches and bays to our wetlands and parks, these treasured landscapes are the foundation of our quality of life—offering beauty, vitality, and essential resources. This is, perhaps, what makes Long Island most unique.
On Thursday, May 14th, we had the privilege of honoring 21 extraordinary environmental champions at the Second Annual Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island, powered by Reworld. More than 450 guests gathered at the Heritage Club at Bethpage in Farmingdale to celebrate these inspiring individuals and organizations.
Each of this year’s honorees is deeply committed to protecting and preserving Long Island’s natural ecosystem for generations to come. Their work is not easy—but it is essential—and we are grateful for their passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication.
We are proud to partner with Reworld, an organization that shares in this critical mission, for the event. Through innovative waste management solutions, Reworld helps reduce negative environmental impacts and supports a more sustainable future for the millions of people who live and work on Long Island.
The leaders we honored at the Sustainability Awards are a reminder that protecting our environment is a shared responsibility. At the Herald, it's a privilege to spotlight the work of these honorees and to serve communities blessed with such remarkable natural beauty.
We look forward to continuing to tell these important stories— your stories!—every day.
Sincerely,
Stuart Richner
Stuart Richner CEO, Richner Communications, Inc. Publisher, Herald Community Media
To our partners and the communities we serve,
Across Long Island, important work is happening every day that raises the standard for environmental stewardship.
On behalf of the Reworld™ team, I’m proud to support the Herald Sustainability Awards as an event that recognizes the people and organizations turning commitment into action.
That same progress is reflected in our work as a company. Reworld™ continues to invest in strong capabilities that transform refuse into a resource, strengthen our infrastructure, and build partnerships that make our work both effective and meaningful. The results are real, and we continue to build on them consistently.
This past year has reinforced that sustainability isn’t a milestone, it’s ongoing work. It takes investment, accountability, and a willingness to keep improving. Reworld™ has embraced that. From expanding community programs to testing new technologies in the waste
sector, we continue to move forward, together.
What makes the Herald Sustainability Awards so impactful is the reminder that progress doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes collaboration. Every business improving its practices, every municipality partnering on responsible solutions, and every community member engaging for a more sustainable future is part of the same effort.
The challenges ahead are real, but so is the opportunity. Long Island is showing that economic growth and environmental responsibility can and should move together. That belief is what drives our work and connects all of us who care about what comes next.
Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your commitment to this community. We’re proud to be part of Long Island, and even more proud of the work being done here every day.
Best regards, Azeez Mohammed Azeez Mohammed President and CEO, Reworld™
Boomer Esiason’s impact extends far beyond the gridiron. Over a 14-season professional career, he played for the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals, most memorably leading the Bengals to Super Bowl XXIII and earning the NFL’s Most Valuable Player award in 1988. A four-time Pro Bowler and First-Team All-Pro, Boomer was known for his leadership, toughness and ability to elevate the teams around him.
Off the field, Boomer has built an equally powerful legacy as one of the nation’s leading advocates in the fight against cystic fibrosis. His commitment became deeply personal in 1993, when his son Gunnar was diagnosed with CF. One year later, he and his wife Cheryl founded the Boomer Esiason Foundation, transforming a family challenge into a national movement.
Boomer is also a tireless policy advocate, regularly traveling to Capitol Hill and state legislatures to ensure the CF community has a strong and informed voice. In recognition of his humanitarian work, he received the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 1995, one of the league’s highest honors. After retiring from football in 1997, he seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, building a 25+ year career as an analyst and radio host. He was a longtime studio analyst for CBS's The NFL Today (2002–2025), cohosts WFAN’s morning show Boomer & Gio (2007–present), and has called games for ABC’s Monday Night Football and Westwood One radio, including 19 consecutive Super Bowls. He’s established himself as one of sports media’s most prominent voices.
Kyle Palmieri has played forward for the New York Islanders since 2021 and serves as alternate captain. He previously played for the New Jersey Devils and Anaheim Ducks.
Growing up on Long Island, Kyle played youth hockey for the Devils sponsored teams at Codey Arena in West Orange, N.J. He attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School for two years before earning an opportunity to play for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program.
He spent one season at Notre Dame before being drafted in the first round of the 2009 NHL Draft by the Ducks. He split his first three seasons in the pros with the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL and the Ducks before becoming a mainstay on the NHL level. Following his fifth season with the team, Kyle was traded to the Devils. Kyle continued to produce while with the Devils and set numerous career-highs over six seasons. After spending six seasons with the Devils, he was traded to the Islanders towards the end of the 2020-21 season.
Off the ice, Kyle started the Kyle Palmieri Foundation in 2018, which supports U.S. military veterans and their families, particularly on Long Island. Inspired by his family's service, the foundation funds initiatives addressing housing, food insecurity, healthcare, and mental health.
Tom Kelly is a stand-up comedian best known for warming up crowds at Good Morning America, The View, The $100,000 Pyramid, America’s Got Talent, and other high-profile productions.
Tom Kelly’s social media took off with viral reels rooted in present-day Long Island life—everything from LIRR delays and “which parkway is worse” debates to overpriced bagels, pickleball takeovers, and the eternal Nassau vs. Suffolk rivalry. His hyperlocal takes consistently rack up views, while his stand-up and relationship clips on TikTok continue to spread—highlighted by his “trap questions” bit surpassing 10 million views.
Tom’s humor blends kindness and selfdeprecation with a sharp, observational edge. The Tom Kelly Show podcast refuses to niche down. It’s conversational, unpredictable, and always funny—featuring interviews with friends, experts, and celebrities, alongside Tom’s unsolicited (but relatable) takes on modern life, all through the lens of a guy dodging a midlife crisis by leaning into his mantra: “Get Back To The Fun.” Multiple clips from the show have topped 2 million views on Facebook Reels. At the end of the day, Tom is happiest doing what he does best—telling jokes for a live crowd. Known for bringing a producer’s instinct to the stage and a quick, in-the-moment wit, he creates a high-energy, one-of-a-kind experience every time he performs.
Senior Girl Scout - 9th Grade
Emma is a dedicated high school student and an active member of Girl Scout Troop 2966. She has been involved with the Suffolk County Girl Scouts since kindergarten, growing both as a leader and a community-minded individual. Throughout her journey, Emma has earned her Bronze Award and Silver Award. She is currently preparing for her Gold Award. Emma is deeply committed to serving her community. She regularly volunteers for local food drives, local clean ups and contributes to clothing donation efforts through the Lighthouse Mission. She also dedicates time to participate in community service events at the Sayville Public Library. Emma is also very involved in school activities. She plays the clarinet in the high school band, participates in Chorus and the Sayville Players Theater Club and is a member of the Sayville High School Art Club. Athletically, she plays on the Junior Varsity High School Softball Team and also competes with the Rebels Fastpitch Softball Team. Emma is passionate about giving back and takes pride in her community service efforts. Her kindness and commitment to helping others and her environment continue to make a positive impact and set a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
Zoe has been a member of Suffolk County Girl Scouts Troop 2966 since Kindergarten. Throughout her years in scouting, she earned her Bronze and Silver Awards and is currently working toward her Gold Award. She actively spearheaded and participated in numerous community service projects, including food drives, care package drives, toy and book collections, and local community cleanups.
As an honor student, Zoe is deeply involved in her school community. She helps design and perform for Haunted Teen Central at Sayville Library and works with her school clubs on charitable events such as Every Child's Dream and Empty Bowls. She actively helps her school library create informational book displays themed to the month's celebration and is a consistent, trustworthy helper to Sayville High School's Art & Music Department. Zoe participates in theater with the Sayville Players, Chorale, Jazz Choir, Art Club, and Stage Crew. In addition to her academic and extracurricular commitments, she enjoys playing guitar, singing lessons, and painting, as well as helping her community grow.
Zoe plans to pursue her love of history when she attends college, and looks forward to combining her academic interests with her dedication to service, leadership, and the arts.
Charles has always felt a strong connection to the environment, shaped by meaningful experiences such as family walks through Sands Point Preserve and Old Westbury Gardens. These moments fostered a deep appreciation for nature and reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship. Recently, he has become increasingly aware of the impact of pollution on local habitats, strengthening his commitment to sustainability and conservation efforts. He believes that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility and that communities must work together to preserve ecosystems for future generations.
10th grade
Roslyn High School
In addition to his environmental interests, Charles is actively involved in extracurricular and academic pursuits, including serving as a member of the Mock Trial Team, an Executive Board Member of the Global Awareness Club, and a participant in the Ethics and Government Club. He also competed in Ethics Bowl and will be interning at a local law firm in Summer 2026. Additionally, he volunteers weekly at the Greenville Baker Boys & Girls Club, where he supports students as a homework helper.
12th Grade
Hauppauge High School
Matias Kalaitzis is a dedicated student leader and scholar who has made a lasting impact on his school and community. A member of Hauppauge for Humanity for four years, he has served as President for the past two, leading fundraising initiatives, coordinating service projects, and helping to organize the school’s food pantry to support families in need. Beyond school, he has mentored and trained underprivileged athletes, fostering skill development, teamwork, and confidence in an inclusive and encouraging environment.
Academically, Matias is an AP Scholar with Honors and a member of the National Honor Society, as well as multiple subject-specific honor societies. He has also served as Captain of the Boys Varsity Soccer team, demonstrating leadership, discipline, and commitment both on and off the field. Through his service, scholarship, and leadership, Matias exemplifies the qualities of a wellrounded and compassionate individual.
Reworld™ searched for Long Island’s next generation of environmental innovators through the second inaugural 2026 Student Sustainability Champion Award Contest. These four students, each receiving a $2,500 prize to support their education or future sustainability projects.
Nominations invited community members to recognize changemakers under age 16 who were making a positive environmental impact.
Sustainability Studies Student Hofstra University
Vienna De Lombaerde is an undergraduate student in Sustainability Studies at Hofstra University with a double minor in Civic Engagement and Public Affairs. They have many academic interests, most of which are aimed at trying to help the world become a more just and sustainable place one step at a time. In their time at Hofstra, they’ve served as a research assistant for projects centered around community gardens and community composting, and this semester they’ve been working on their thesis on informal environmental education as well as a project on how historic redlining practices continue to impact green space access in marginalized communities today. After graduating this semester, they hope to work in environmental education and community outreach to help people of all backgrounds interact with, learn about, and discover their love for the natural world.
Executive Edward P. Romaine was elected Suffolk County Executive in November 2023. The latest in a long life of public service spanning four decades. As Supervisor of the Town of Brookhaven, Romaine achieved and maintained an AAA bond rating from S&P, a feat he seeks to replicate on the county level. Romaine continues to protect open space and agriculture while promoting affordable housing stock in our downtowns. As an environmental champion, Romaine supports a robust sewer program and the installation of I/A systems for homeowners.
County Executive Romaine holds a B.A. in History from Adelphi University and an M.A. in History from Adelphi University. He resides in Center Moriches with his wife, Diane.
NY State Senator 6th District
Senator Siela Bynoe, a longtime Long Island resident, carries deep community roots and a commitment to sustainability and public service. A graduate of Nassau Community College and Hofstra University, she earned her Master’s in Public Administration from LIU Post.
Senator Bynoe delivered key environmental wins in this year’s Senate One-House budget, adding $3.5 million for a Flood Mitigation System in the Village of Freeport and restoring $2.9 million for the Long Island South Shore Estuary Reserve for a total of $5 million. She also added $600,000 for electric vehicle charging stations in Westbury Village.
Last year’s state budget included Senator Bynoe’s pilot program to conserve water through rebates for Long Island families who install smart-irrigation devices.
While serving as a Nassau County Legislator, she led efforts to restore annual groundwater reporting and promoted environmentally responsible policies with the Nassau IDA. Elected to the State Senate in 2024, she sits on the Environmental Conservation committee.
District Manager
Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District
Derek has served as District Manager for the Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District since 2021. Having earned a bachelor’s degree in physical anthropology from the University of Miami and a master’s in conservation biology from Columbia University, Derek brings over a decade of experience to the position. His career began as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali, followed by work in Gabon, Switzerland, Kenya, and Ethiopia with organizations including the United Nations, the Born Free Foundation, and Princeton University. As a native Long Islander with strong ties to Nassau County, Derek was thrilled to join the District and refocus his efforts on protecting Long Island’s unique natural resources. As District Manager, he oversees programs that tackle septic system replacement, stormwater management and green infrastructure, ecological preservation and trail maintenance, and wildlife monitoring.
Derek has especially enjoyed organizing the Annual Long Island Regional Envirothon, an environmental competition for high school students across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. The event fosters teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship, and its continued success reflects the dedication of local districts, students, and the generous support of sponsors like Reworld.
Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District
Born and raised on Long Island, Corey has always had a fixation for the natural beauty and diverse habitats that L.I. has to offer. Corey’s passion for his work began as a volunteer conducting beach clean-up events across the shorelines of Nassau and Suffolk. It was during these formidable years he boldly decided his professional career would be dedicated to improving natural resources, specifically on Long Island. This passion led Corey to work for environmental focused entities such as Cornell Cooperative Extension where he conducted fishery research, water quality monitoring and aquaculture production during the day and at the same time moonlighting as a college student in the evenings. Earning a master’s in environmental management from Stony Brook University in 2011, Corey was hired as the District Manager of the Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District in 2013, then in 2016 was brought on to lead the Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District. When not working at the District, Corey can be found boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors with his wife Kaitlin and his three children, Quinn (7), Layla (4) and Stella (1).
Devon Giordano is a strategic leader with deep experience in conservation, philanthropy, and civic engagement. A Long Island native, she brings both a global perspective and a local passion for protecting the region’s natural resources and connecting its communities through meaningful environmental action. Before joining the Long Island Conservancy, Devon served as Associate Director of Development at The Nature Conservancy, where she advanced mission-driven fundraising and partnerships. Her career also includes leadership roles at Cornell University’s Institute of Politics and Global Affairs, Long Island University, and the Hagedorn Foundation, where she directed a regional campaign benefiting more than 100 nonprofit organizations. She is known for building strong partnerships, engaging boards, and leading collaborative efforts that drive lasting impact — strengthening both communities and the environment they depend on.
Cynthia Seibold is an environmental solutionist committed to forging collaborative partnerships that empower community stewardship and inspire cultural behavior change. She began her twenty-year career in commercial insurance as a large-accounts underwriter, where she honed skills in research, analysis, and risk prevention to protect people and manage profitability.
In 2023, Cynthia shifted her focus from insurance and launched the country’s first post-event balloon collection program, the Balloon Mission, in three elementary schools and one public library in North Merrick, New York. This effort, built on a Community-Based Social Marketing Campaign, aims to prevent intentional balloon releases and litter, promote responsible practices, and divert waste from landfills.
Since then, Cynthia has expanded collection and recycling initiatives with over 100 participating organizations across 12 states, protecting people, animals, and the environment from this little-known but widespread singleuse plastic.
Cynthia has lectured in five states on Balloon Mission’s innovative sustainability solutions, the importance of collaborative partnerships as an engine for progress, and balloon legislation in the U.S..
Cynthia believes every person, regardless of age or experience, can identify a problem, solve it, and effect positive change. With commitment, research, and collaborative partnerships, each of us can inspire community-driven change for a healthier world.
Eileen Minogue is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in both corporate and nonprofit realms. Armed with expertise in business management, program administration, fund development, and volunteer engagement, Eileen possesses a unique skill set that drives organizational success.
Since assuming the role of executive director at Book Fairies in 2019, Eileen has been instrumental in reshaping the organization and amplifying its influence. Through strategic partnerships, collaborative initiatives, and diversification of funding streams, she has significantly boosted both in-kind and monetary support, witnessing a remarkable asset growth of over 300% from March 2019 to 2022.
Before her tenure at Book Fairies, Eileen co-founded and led Patient Airlift Services, starting it from her basement and expanding its reach to serve individuals nationally. This background highlights her adeptness in nurturing and advancing nonprofit entities from inception.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Eileen is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Over the past twenty years, she has volunteered with various nonprofits, including serving on the board of The Massapequa Community Fund, which has contributed over $2 million in local assistance since 2001.
Eileen's unwavering dedication to promoting literacy, assisting underserved populations, and fostering equal opportunities underscores her mission-driven approach to effecting positive change.
COMMUNITY IMPACT FOR SUSTAINABILITY
The New York Marine Rescue Center (NYMRC) is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of marine mammals and sea turtles throughout the state of New York. As the only facility in the region specializing in the care of pinnipeds and sea turtles, NYMRC plays a critical role in responding to stranded, injured or sick marine animals. NYMRC provides expert veterinary care, and supportive rehabilitation, giving each animal a second chance at life before returning them home to the wild.
Beyond rescue, NYMRC is deeply committed to public education and environmental stewardship. Through community outreach, school programs, and public events, they raise awareness about marine ecosystems, conservation challenges, and the impacts of human activity on marine species. NYMRC also contributes to the scientific research, conducting post-release monitoring, clinical studies, and population assessments across New York waters. These efforts provide critical insights into species' health, movement patterns, and long-term survival, informing conservation strategics and management policies. By combining hands-on rescue, public education, and rigorous science, NYMRC strives to protect and sustain New York's marine species for generations to come.
Julie Tighe was named President of NYLCV and NYLCVEF in 2018. Under Julie’s leadership, the League has helped achieve several major policy wins, including the passage of the CLCPA, Congestion Pricing, the Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth & Community Benefit Act, the All-Electric Buildings Act, and other measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She has also helped secure increased State funding for water infrastructure, NYC funding for parks, and she was a leading voice in the statewide campaign that led to the overwhelming passage of the $4.2B Environmental Bond Act in 2022.
Previously, Tighe served for more than eleven years at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, having been elevated to Chief of Staff after serving as Assistant Commissioner of Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs. As a key member of DEC’s leadership team who oversaw the organization’s policy development, she was instrumental in advancing the agency’s legislative priorities including reform of the Brownfield Cleanup Program and a $1B Superfund authorization. She was a primary negotiator for the landmark $2.5 billion CWIA, the incorporation of the Climate Change program into NY’s historic $300M EPF, three successful Constitutional Amendments, and the nation’s most comprehensive electronics recycling law.
Robyn Silvestri is the Executive Director of Save The Great South Bay, where she has become a leading force in Long Island’s environmental restoration movement. Since taking the helm in 2019, Robyn has transformed the organization into a regional leader in community-driven water quality advocacy, habitat restoration, and public engagement.
Under her leadership, Save The Great South Bay has expanded signature programs including Creek Defender, oyster restoration, and watershed education, while building one of the most ambitious South Shore-wide water quality monitoring initiatives in the region. Robyn has spearheaded the development of a science-based South Shore Bays Report Card, bringing together academic institutions, government agencies, citizen scientists, and nonprofit partners to create a unified framework for understanding and communicating bay health across the watershed.
A key part of her recent work has been helping bring the Long Island South Shore Waterkeeper program to life under the Waterkeeper Alliance, establishing a new era of regional coordination, advocacy, and science-informed leadership for the South Shore’s bays, tributaries, and aquiferconnected waterways.
With more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning nonprofits, municipal government, startups, and international communications, Robyn is recognized for her ability to unite diverse stakeholders and turn bold environmental visions into measurable community outcomes.
National Grid Ventures (NGV) is the commercial arm of National Grid plc, one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world. NGV develops and operates energy assets and businesses in the US, the UK and Europe including competitive transmission, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) storage, battery storage, solar and conventional generation. A global leader in operating transmission infrastructure, NGV runs the world's largest portfolio of high-voltage, subsea interconnectors, and is working to modernize and expand the electrical grid in the US to deliver affordable, reliable energy. For more information, visit https://www.nationalgrid. com/national-grid-ventures.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Located in the heart of the expanding experiential destination of Belmont Park, UBS Arena is New York’s newest premier live entertainment and sports venue. Proud home to the New York Islanders, the state-of-theart arena was developed in partnership with Oak View Group, the New York Islanders and Jeff Wilpon, and has welcomed over 3 million guests and 350+ events with top artists from around the world since November 2021.
UBS Arena is at the forefront of sustainability, achieving Zero Waste TRUE Silver certification in addition to its LEED Green Building Certification and carbon neutrality for its venue operations. Rooted in community and environmental impact, the venue is an inspiring example of how values become actions. Sustainability at UBS Arena is guided by three focus areas within the arena’s Sustainability framework of Sustainable Brilliance, Community Resilience - Nourishing our neighborhood: We sow the seeds of community growth, using shared moments to ignite a passion for positive change; Protecting Our Planet: We prioritize our planet’s future through strategic investments in sustainable operations; Inspiring Our Industry: We pioneer sustainability standards that act as a catalyst for forging impactful partnerships.
TRITEC Real Estate Company is a premier regional real estate firm specializing in development, construction, and property management, with a portfolio spanning Long Island and the Washington D.C. Metro area.
Founded in 1986 by brothers Bob and Jim Coughlan, TRITEC remains a family-owned business known for its strong community partnerships and comprehensive expertise across every phase of the real estate cycle, including acquisition, development, construction, financing, leasing, and management.
TRITEC has delivered over 17 million square feet of commercial space and more than 2,200 residential units, with an active pipeline exceeding 2,600 units. The company’s work is defined by a commitment to placemaking and a track record of transformative mixed-use projects such as Station Yards in Ronkonkoma and Shoregate in Bay Shore. Across its portfolio, TRITEC is committed to responsible, sustainable development practices that prioritize long-term environmental performance, resilient infrastructure, and lasting value for the communities it serves.
The TRITEC team includes a dedicated group of full-time employees, most of whom have been with the company for more than a decade. Guided by the motto “Have Fun, Win, Be Nice,” TRITEC fosters a culture that emphasizes excellence, integrity, and community impact.
This focus results in enduring client relationships and consistently high standards of quality, design, and delivery that set TRITEC apart as a trusted leader in the industry.
MUNICIPAL LEADER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Commissioner Department of Environmental Control President Islip Resource Recovery Agency
Marty Bellow is currently the Town of Islip’s Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Control and the President of the Islip Resource Recovery Agency. Marty has a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering which prepared him for his extensive career in Solid Waste Management, including serving as Director of the Bureau of Waste Disposal, Waste Disposal Engineering, and the Bureau of Recycling for the New York City Department of Sanitation. During his time there his major accomplishments include managing the material generated by the 9/11 attack, inclusive of the operation at the Fresh Kills Landfill, which included designing and implementing the current export plan to handle the waste generated in NYC. Marty managed the Bureau of Recycling through several years of tough budgetary constraints. One notable achievement was the introduction of recycling in the public-school syllabus and curriculum for which he received a top National Award. After retiring from DSNY in 2005, he worked for several years at engineering firms involved in various solid waste, recycling, and organic initiatives.
Marty joined the Town of Islip in 2018. His first major accomplishment was the design and construction of a state-of-the-art Animal Shelter. Currently Marty is in the process of designing and will construct a new shellfish hatchery for the Town of Islip.
Krupski is a fifth-generation farmer from Cutchogue, New York, where he was born and raised on his family’s farm. His lifelong connection to agriculture and the environment has shaped a career focused on natural resources, conservation, and public service as a Town Trustee.
Mr. Krupski earned a B.S. in Geology and Environmental Science from SUNY Cortland and a Master’s degree in Biology from C.W. Post. Over the course of his career, he has worked in marine habitat restoration with the Suffolk County Cornell Cooperative Marine Program, served as a dive consultant on environmental projects at Superfund sites across the country, including work in the East
River, Gowanus Canal, and Newtown Creek. He also contributed to groundwater-related work with the Suffolk County Water Authority and Brookhaven National Laboratory.
He currently serves as Solid Waste Coordinator for the Town of Southold, where he manages a team of nearly 20 staff members and oversees the Town’s waste streams, transfer station, capped landfill, recycling and reuse programs, composting operations, and yard debris processing. Most recently in partnership with NFEC and LIOC Nick started a successful pilot for food waste compost at the Town of Southold Transfer Station and Compost Facility.
Farrm Wine was created by Rex and Connie Farr practicing organic/biodynamic farming methods. No chemicals have been used on the farm since 1985. They became the first certified organic/biodynamic farm (1990) on Long Island. The farm produces herbs, small fruits, and organic vegetables of 50-60 different varieties.
2026 AWARD RECOGNITION FOR
The vineyard was planted in 2005, with four varieties of Bordeaux grapes; 8.5 acres of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petite Verdot. The first wines were made from the 2012 harvest and then only two bottles were made; Farrm Reserve and Farrm Rosé. Our wines reflect the quintessential “terroir”, the taste of North Fork of Long Island.
Bedell Cellars is a pioneering, family-owned winery in the long island wine growing region. They are dedicated to quality and creativity in everything they do. With a commitment to sustainable farming, they have hand-crafted our wines in small batches for over FORTY years using methods that define the regional style — artistically blending grapes grown in their unique maritime terroir.
LOUGHLIN VINYARDS
While he toured Europe during WWII, Barney thought all the vineyards were like “a little slice of heaven” and wanted to bring that back to Sayville. Although Barney did not drink wine and preferred Johnny Walker and Irish Whiskey, people told him he could not grow grapes on the South Shore of Long Island. Being a stubborn Irishman, he set out to prove them wrong.
On the rainy Memorial Day Weekend of 1984, Barney, Christine, and their daughters planted grape vines on five acres of property. After a few years of selling the grapes to vineyards out east, Barney decided to produce his own wine. With the help of friends at Peconic Bay Vineyard, Loughlin Vineyard began production of their first vintage of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
In 2006, Barney made the decision to establish his own winery on the property, and ever since, Loughlin Vineyard has been making their wine onsite. The original tasting room was a picnic table in front of the vines. As time went on, the tasting room grew from an open shack to a cabin nestled in the woods. You can join us in the tasting room all year round.
Although Barney passed away in 2017 at the age of 91, his daughters Beth, Patricia and Mary Ellen maintain the vineyard and winery.
Garvies Point Brewery crafts high-quality craft beer bursting with aroma and flavor, using globally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy 24 rotating draft taps, craft cocktails, and a full bar in a spacious tasting room overlooking the active brewery. Steps away, Garvies Point Restaurant offers a full-day menu, from burgers to lobster rolls, sushi to salads, with indoor, outdoor, and private event seating. Dog-friendly outdoor spaces and waterfront views create a welcoming atmosphere. Whether relaxing after work or celebrating a special occasion, Garvies Point brings people together through great beer, food, and community.
Reworld™ is committed to fostering sustainability throughout Long Island with year-round programs that engage local schools, nonprofit organizations, and municipal partners. Through educational initiatives, community cleanups, and environmental awareness campaigns, Reworld™ continues to support the next generation of sustainability advocates while strengthening the region’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future.
