This past week I read a letter in your paper which was mailed to you by a Democratic Councilman for the City of Glen Cove, who did not identify himself as such, with one purpose in mind: to try to create doubt about Tom Sabellico. I don't think that the author of that letter has ever met Tom or really knows much about Farmingdale. I have had the pleasure of knowing Tom since we attended Plainedge High School together, graduating in 1971.

Back then, 35 years ago, with no possible way of knowing he would ever run for political office, Tom was very involved in our community. Starting in 1974, at the request of Father Tom Hartman, Tom started coaching youth baseball teams and he has gone on to do some great things for kids and our community. Any time anyone came to Tom with a worthy cause, he was there to donate his time and talents. Many times he brought the causes to us. Most recently, I reached out to Tom to help us in Plainedge - to help get back the sports our schools lost because our budget failed. Since the moment I called him, he jumped into the process and served as our pro bono counsel, advising us, helping us and working with us to reach our goal.

Tom has formed three charitable organizations, participates as an active member in all the organizations he belongs to and many times is one of the first people that a community group in need goes to. His reputation speaks for itself. To call Tom a "self-serving politician" is ridiculous. It's the furthest thing from the truth.

Tom Sabellico has been there for the Massapequa-Farmingdale community for over 35 years. I see him as an example of what makes our community so special.

Joe Pappalardo