As most of you know, one of Robert's dearest friends, Jamie Macchia, died suddenly on June 12. He was only 37 years old. Robert and Jamie became friends at the tender age of three. Jamie was one of the people responsible for branding Robert with probably the most famous nickname of all time - "Head." When Robert died, Jamie was one of the principal contributors in placing a park bench outside of Town Florist creating a permanent memorial to Robert. The Robert A. Conroy, Jr. Foundation owes part of its success due to the big generous heart and kind assistance of Jamie Macchia. He will be missed by everyone.

It is that time of year again. Of course, we are referring to the Third Annual Robert A. Conroy, Jr. Memorial Picnic. The picnic held at Brady Park will be taking place on Saturday, Aug. 12, beginning at 11:30 a.m. In the unlikely event (we hope) of inclement weather, the picnic will be held on Sunday, Aug. 13. The entire park is reserved for this auspicious occasion, so please come and bring a friend.

The Foundation is very proud of its sponsors and once again, they have donated outstanding prizes to be raffled. A sampling includes family entertainment, sporting event tickets, baskets of cheer, dinner packages and many, many more.

Due to the huge success of last year's event, the Foundation will be providing entertainment for the children, including Zippy the Clown, pinatas, an arts and crafts table, games and relays for children in different age groups and...well - we do not want to reveal too much. You will all just have to come to the picnic and see for yourself.

Please be advised that the Second Annual Robert A. Conroy, Jr. Memorial Golf Outing sponsored by the Back Page Ale House will be taking place on July 24 at the Bergen Point Golf Course. For more information on how to attend this great outing, please contact the Back Page Ale House at 541-7712.

Please also be advised that the Robert A. Conroy, Jr. Memorial Horse Race at Belmont Park will be taking place on Sept. 16. This event is not a fund raiser for the Foundation. Also, if you are not familiar with Belmont Park, there is a wonderful playground for the children centrally located in the picnic grounds. For more details, please contact Bert Baldenko at 541-3291 or Bob Conroy at 799-6751.

The Robert A. Conroy, Jr. Foundation made its largest contribution to date. At the Senior Awards ceremony held at Massapequa High School on May 24, the Foundation provided two graduating students with scholarships each in the amount of $2,000. The recipients were Anna Marie Lupica and William Whiting. These large amounts of money provided to these worthy students were made possible only by your generous donations.

Thank you and we will see you on Aug. 12.

The Robert A. Conroy Foundation