Off the heels of last month's sudden postponement of the 26th Annual Easter Seals Softball Classic ("the Classic"), renewed interest in having the popular event return to Nassau County has drawn the support of several organizations including the Columbus Lodge #2143 (CL) and the accounting firm KPMG. A lodge spokesperson has verified that at least two discussions with Easter Seals Society officials have taken place.

Although it was a staple on Long Island, after the 2001 event, the Classic was moved exclusively to Central Park in Manhattan where NY Yankee centerfielder Bernie Williams has served as honorary chairman the past three years. CL softball committee co-chairmen Ed Bochynski and Pete Gisonda have offered to serve as advisors regarding any format refurbishing and posting on Internet softball websites.

While the location of next year's softball event remains unsettled, what is definite is the Easter Seals Society's Long Island Golf Classic on August 24 at Bethpage State Park's lavish Blue Course. The 1:30 p.m. shotgun start includes lunch, cocktail reception, and dinner at the prestigious Carlyle on the Green. For further information, one may contact Tony Susino or Vicky at (212) 373-6400.

For over 85-years, the Easter Seals Society has served the community in a variety of ways, from aiding polio victims in the 1950s to spearheading legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act. Recently, Easter Seals established a relief fund to benefit New Yorkers disabled in the World Trade Center attacks. "It's a wonderful organization," said Pete Gisonda, principal trustee of Columbus Lodge #2143, a member of the Order Sons of Italy in America.

In 1919, Ohio-businessman Edgar Allen founded the Easter Seals Society, originally known as the Ohio Society for Crippled Children, to help children with disabilities. Allan never imagined how large it would grow. In the spring of 1934, the Society launched its first Easter "seals" campaign to raise money for its services. To show support, donors placed the seals on envelopes and letters.

The lily, a symbol of spring, was officially incorporated as Easter Seals' logo in 1952 for its association with resurrection and new life; it has appeared on each seal since. Public support for the "seals" triggered a nationwide expansion. The "seals" became so closely associated with the organization's work that in 1967, its name was formerly changed to the National Easter Seals Society.

Today, Easter Seals assists more than one million children and adults with disabilities, annually, through a nationwide network of more than 450 service sites. Each center provides top-quality, family-focused, and innovative services, tailored to meet the specific needs of the particular community it serves. Its mission is to provide programs and services to children and adults with disabilities and other special needs, and their families.