Legionnaires Log: March 19, 2010

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day

Charles Wagner Post 421 recognizes the achievements of Irish Americans in making America a great nation. We pause to remember Irish American heroes such as Father Duffy of World War I fame and bravery. Reverend Francis Patrick Duffy was born in Ontario, Canada, emigrated to America as a young man and was ordained in the Archdiocese of New York in 1891. During the Spanish-American War he began a career as a military chaplain , but didn’t deploy abroad. During World War I Chaplain Colonel Duffy served with the “Fighting 69th” Infantry Regiment of the New York Army National Guard, which served 180 days in combat. Most of the soldiers were of Irish descent from New York City. Despite constant enemy artillery fire Chaplain Duffy comforted the wounded, said Mass, heard confessions and administered last rites. After the war Father Duffy became pastor of Holy Cross Church just off Broadway where he served until his death in 1932.

Letter: Thanks for Making Soldier Drive A Success

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone who helped make this year’s soldier collection drive a great success. While I am saddened by the fact that such a drive is necessary, I believe it is critical that we do our part to boost the morale of our soldiers. This program serves as an important reminder that the daily sacrifices made by our uniformed service personnel are not taken for granted.

I want to personally thank all employees of the Town of Oyster Bay, who, with the assistance of the CSEA, collected hundreds of needed supplies to be sent to the men and women serving overseas. We had collection boxes set up at various Town facilities and employees provided great assistance for this cause.

Letter: A Tribute to Mr. Evers

The community of Hicksville has suffered a great loss with the passing of Mr. Richard Evers (87) on February 25, 2010. He served all of us over the years as a teacher, mentor, historian, role model, friend and last but not least a U.S. Marine from 1942 to 1946. A proud member of the Greatest Generation, I first met Mr. Evers in Jr. High School in 1953. He had a way of teaching history/social studies that made it fun. He stressed the importance of knowing our history so we could avoid making mistakes of the past. As kids, we never knew what he experienced during his service to our country. One can only imagine. During my lifetime, I was privileged to know many members of the Greatest Generation and almost all of them hardly spoke of what they went through.

Letter: Remembering Evers, Previte

Former residents returning home frequently visit the Hicksville Gregory Museum and inquire about their former teacher, Richard “Dick” Evers. I was fond of telling them that Mr. Evers is the kind of person who, when I’m his age, I hope to be as young as he is. Mr. Evers’ passing on Feb. 25, 2010 at the age of 87 has not diminished that estimation one iota. Indeed, Mr. Evers’ optimism made him a better man – and a better historian as well.

Letter: Richard Evers Was a Mentor

Richard Evers, teacher, historian, author, and mentor to many, died February 25. Like to many in the Hicksville Historical Society, he was a true mentor to me, and was the person that started me into volunteering my time with the Historical Society. His presentations at our general meetings boosted community awareness and pride in our town. 

Letter: Challenging Medicare’s Future

The recent piece “The Future of Healthcare Reform” by Bob McMillan (Hicksville Illustrated News, Feb. 19, 2010) omits some vital points concerning Medicare.

From the Desk of Assemblyman Michael Montesano

‘Governor’s Budget Does Not Account for Deficit’

New York State Assemblyman Michael A. Montesano (R, I, C – Glen Head) criticized Governor David Paterson for his proposed 2010-2011 Executive Budget’s rosy revenue predictions, which overestimate total tax receipts by $1.35 billion and would deepen an already-staggering two-year budget deficit to $9.05 billion, according to figures from the Minority Ways and Means Office.

Letter: Support Local Team at This Year’s MS Walk

It’s that time of year again. With only 77 days before the walk left, I am asking you to help out. Once again, team Newly Diagnosed Fight will do its part in taking steps to find a cure for multiple sclerosis by participating in the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Walk on Sunday, May 2.

Letter: Candidate Thanks Supporters

On Feb. 9, I stood with some of you and announced that I had lost the race for Assemblyman in the 15th District to my opponent.

We had only a month to prepare for that day, to make it known that there was a special election, to build support and to let people know what my ideas are and how I could move us forward.

Letter: Keep Hydrants Clear

This past snowstorm brings about special concerns to the Hicksville Water District. The plowing of snow often covers our 1,600-plus fire hydrants under a large amount of snow, making them impossible to find quickly.

In the event of a fire, local firefighters have to locate and shovel out fire hydrants before hooking up to them. Precious time is lost. The commissioners at the water district are asking that you help us by keeping the fire hydrant closest to your residence or business clear of snow.

We recommend a three-foot clearance on all sides. When shoveling snow be aware of vehicle traffic. Do not stand in the street and be careful not to slip and fall out into the roadway.

Karl Schweitzer

Commissioner, Hicksville Water District