Can You See The Light? Health & Human Services Report from Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds

Head shot of Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, CEO, Family and Children's Association, 2023

I was glad to see this major force for Human Services doing well and finding ways to use his personal experience to help others. Gratefully, he agreed to meet up and talk shop….

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How to Help Ukraine

Pop art photo of sunflowers

Help Ukraine: Proceeds from sales of this print “Technicolor Sunflower Vibrations” by Katheryn Laible (available at the Firefly Artists in Northport) will be directed to CARE.

Below is a list of ways we might help people impacted by the war in Ukraine.
 
The assault by Russia is a heartbreaking atrocity that many somehow thought Europe was now beyond. As we pray for all involved…which really is everybody at the very least due to our intricately woven economies…I hope it also brings us to see people from other war-torn circumstances with more compassion and recognition of our shared humanity.
 
Fascinating conversations with folks I might think of as “more foreign to me” have underlined this deeply. I am ever grateful to live in such a melting pot where I can look so many different folks in the eye and hear their perspectives. Now that we’re able to gather intimately with strangers again, I realize how very much I’ve missed this, and how deeply valuable it is.
 
They and others remind me to reflect on how very precious things we may take for granted here are; to recognize that this conflict is at least in some deep way about fundamental values we as a Nation have managed to secularly enshrine: Freedoms of conscience and expression. A right to self determination. The basic human right for civilians to live in peace. The fact that for whatever we may have to criticize about ourselves — and, yes, we do have our fair share! —  the very fact that we get to do so as robustly as we will is a valuable privilege too many do not have. 
 
It makes me think about so many things we squabble about at home — and also makes me think about how…while we are far from perfect…our role as a “beacon of light” for so many people the world over has been important. It doesn’t make us as individuals any better than other people, but it does point to some very special things we have managed to achieve and still remain a steward and champion of, if we will take that responsibility. 
 
As our dear Founding Father, an incredible if also very human being, Benjamin Franklin, famously said: We have “a Republic. If you will keep it.”
 
It makes me wonder: If we don’t continue to champion the inalienable rights and noble ideals this nation was founded upon and that so many have fought to more fully realize, then who will? Who possibly could? It helps me get my own priorities in order, even as I’m not entirely sure how to reconcile my fundamental principles into this on beyond wired new world…
 
The term “freedom isn’t free” comes to mind from a number of different perspectives as I am struck by how these ideals may be undermined not only by sometimes violent censorship, but also by active disinformation and practical concerns.  I am concurrently profoundly moved by how very hard people who really know the value of these rights will fight to maintain them, or determine to assert them anyway, despite even the most pressing of practical concerns.
 
We are witnessing incredible stories of resilience and determination among the Ukrainians, as well as among people who stand to support them, including from within Russia itself. At the same time, we are also forced to reckon with the fact that there are people — some of whom wield incredible power — that seem to have no regard whatsoever for innocent human lives, let alone our noble ideals. All the while, we are once again getting to fairly directly experience how deeply interconnected we are, how much it costs to dance with the devil, and how exceptionally difficult it can be to know the best course through things, even when guided by the best of intentions…
 
At the limits of my human capacity to effect change for the better, I pray. For the people of Ukraine. For the people of Russia. For my dear, dear nation and for this whole world we share. May we somehow come through this time better than we were before.
 
Here is a collection of resources for those who’d like to better understand and to help the people impacted by this war. Grateful thanks to all who live to make things better:
 
Tips on dealing with difficult news stories

“5 Tips for Dealing with War in Ukraine News Coverage” from the Fair Media council.

How to talk to your kids about the war in Ukraine (And other tough topics)” from the Long Island Press

 
Some Analyses of the situation

Why Has Russia Invaded Ukraine and What Does Putin Want?” from the BBC

The Grid is “a collaborative newsroom of beat reporters, subject editors and data journalists who work together to show how the areas we cover are interconnected.” It’s quite a way to take in the situation.

 

Insights from the Harvard Kennedy School

NPR and WNYC have been covering disinformation campaigns and their responses in the region for quite some time. It’s a really important topic. Here’s a more general series on Untangling Disinformation from NPR.

Here at home is a a story in Newsday about one Long Island family (subscription required) who has taken in childhood friends from Ukraine.

 
Ways You Can Help
This a sampling of resources. As always, it is strongly recommended that folks research to make sure that whatever they donate to is a reputable organization that aligns with their values.
 

The Long Island Community Foundation provides a list of well-vetted organizations to help refugee and humanitarian efforts related to the war.

Solidarity with Ukraine” from LI Business News (subscription required) reports on a number of local efforts. It also includes links to support an endeavor by Northwell Health in partnership with Doctors Without Borders, as well as funds created by the National Bank of Ukraine, Razom for Ukraine and HIAS in Ukraine

#United for Ukraine: You can find out about this United Way Global effort through the United Way of Long Island and how you can support United Way’s vetted, nonpartisan partners on the ground, including United Way Romania, United Way Hungary and Fundacja Dobrych Inicjatyw (Good Initiatives Foundation) in Poland.”
 

23 Ways you can help Ukraine right now from TimeOuthere.com

30 Meaningful Ways to Help Ukraine from Global Citizen

 
A Few Hyper-Local Efforts

Your school, your church, your office, you local watering hole may be doing something. I’d love to hear about it! Here are a few lovely things we’ve noticed:

Three Places on Long Island to Donate to Aid Ukraine” by LongIsland.com. A Babylon effort, an Islip effort and a Long Islander who was born in Ukraine who is channeling donations

“Artists on East End put work up for auction to raise money for Ukraine” (subscription required) from Newsday. The auction, “Artists for Ukraine” will donate every penny of sales. It’s happening this weekend at “The Church” in Sag Harbor

East End: Main Prospect making dishes to help Ukrainian people” from News12 Long Island, this is a report on a Southampton restaurant that’s already raised over $10,000 making authentic Ukrainian dishes.

Artisans from the Nest on Main in Northport have come together to offer “The Sunflower Collection.” Proceeds from this collection will be donated to Ukrainian relief efforts through World Central Kitchen.

Paws of War in Nesconset have this on their website: “Since 2014, we have brought over 300 dogs and cats, rescued by our troops serving overseas to safety in the U.S. We have provided 100’s of Veterans with service and support dogs rescued from kill shelters.” Now they have a huge focus on Ukraine.
 
 
Magnet from local school Russian Club
"The Russian Club at school was selling these to help people in Ukraine," my son told me. "I thought you'd appreciate that so I got you one." I do. Thanks.

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian: Celebrating a Season of Miracles in a Place They Happen Every Day

Photo of stable wall with uplifting messages posted

I was so happy to be invited along with my family to Pal-O-Mine Equestrian’s  “Winter Wonderland” on the last day of the J-STEP Holiday Market (they’ve since added a few more days…see below!) The childlike delight on my teenagers’ faces made it even better.

This is a deep, yet quiet celebration. It is not a day for the horses to strut their stuff. In fact, they seem to be on holiday themselves, enjoying the beautiful weather and occasionally approaching visitors to say “Hello.”  

PalOMine Horses at Rest
Pal-O-Mine horses at rest

It is the smaller animals — fancy chickens, sheep and ponies — that have center stage. Children of all ages pet and walk the gentle creatures as they learn about the farm and its residents.

“If you really need some TLC, though,” says an instructor named Danielle, indicating an enormous Belgian Draft Horse standing by one of the fences, “Go see Boomer. He’s the best. He’ll fix you right up.”

Photo of Boomer & Friend
Photo of Boomer and Friend by Ellen Lear

“This is the day we give back to our volunteers and funders,” she continues, “Today, they get to come and enjoy, and we get to work.”

The way she phrases this is intriguing, “Ummm….Aren’t you usually working when you’re here?”

“Yeah,” she smiles, “But our volunteers donate so much of their time, and our donors make it all possible. Usually, I’m working with clients. Today, I get to give back to our supporters, hang out with my coworkers, relax and enjoy.”

“Isn’t that right, Lovie?” She nods to the sheep whose line she has just handed off to an older girl. That girl is now guiding other children in petting him and feeling for the lanolin deep in his wool. Danielle offers Co-Worker Lovie a snack and strokes his head.

Photo of Lovie the Sheep
Lovie the Sheep photo by Katheryn Laible

I have yet to meet a staff member here who does not exude love and deep appreciation for their job.

“I met my best friend here,” says another instructor named Eve. She’s talking about Deb who is standing next to her. With them are two miniature horses whom we’ve been strolling with. They go on about funny coincidences and sweet simple fun. We marvel at the healthy 40-year old little horse named Honey and her dear friend, Darla. We breathe in the whole atmosphere and smile.

“We’re not snorting fairy dust here,” says Deb. Quite the opposite, actually. We laugh, thinking about the stuff inevitably in the air of a farm, even one as remarkably clean and well-kept as Pal-O-Mine. There is hard work being done here every day with a broad range of clients who are generally dealing with serious issues. The energy is overwhelmingly positive, though. Those involved speak of earthly miracles.

Photo of Deb and Eve with miniature horses Honey and Darla

Miracles and peace. “Among so many blessings, this place offers the beautiful gift of being present,” Deb reflects, “Whether you work here, or are served here, or are just visiting there is nothing you can do but slow down. The animals require it. The clients with the deepest connection to them need it, too.

“We’re all about the ‘Power of the Pause’ here,” she says. “It’s magical.”

Peace, positivity, and appreciation of what’s possible. “There are so many good people and great stories here…and everywhere, really,” Deb says. “I see it every day. I think more people need to be shown.

“Yeah,” she continues, “we have to face and deal with the tough things, but people need to see the good stuff that is happening, too. Then, they know what can be done.”

I know I’m sure grateful for everyone showing me.

Thank you!!!

J-STEP Holiday Shop invitation and images of crafts

Pal-O-Mine’s added more days to their 2021 J-Step Holiday Shop!

Stop in at the front office if you would like to go to the shop

December 16-18

Thursday and Friday from 10am-4pm

and

Saturday from 10am-2pm

at

The Classroom at Pal-O-Mine

829 Old Nichols Road, Islandia, NY 11749

Cash, Card and Check Accepted!

 

Face Masks Are Required While Shopping Indoors

Last chance for the J-Step Holiday Shop! 

J-Step Holiday Shop at Pal-O-Mine Equestrian

Pal-O-Mine Logo
Flyer for JSTEP Holiday Shop
You can read all about Pal-O-Mine Equestrian in this article we wrote. Basically, it’s a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities, the abused or neglected, the impoverished and the military.
 
Its J-STEP (Job Security Through Equine Partnership) program, is a paid internship vocational program that runs 5 days per week for people with disabilities who are 18 years or older.
 
They are currently hosting a Holiday Shop of items hand crafted by these interns.
 
Where: The Classroom at Pal-O-Mine, 829 Old Nichols Road in Islandia
 
When: Thursday December 9th, 10am-2pm, Friday December 10th, 12pm-6pm, Saturday, December 11th, 9am-4pm, Sunday, December 12th, 10am-4pm
 
Please Note: Face masks are required while shopping indoors.
You can find items crafted by these folks at other locations, too, including The Firefly Artists in Northport, where we have beautiful key chains that help raise awareness and show support for folks living with a variety of different conditions.
Pal-O-Mine has also put together a Herd Wish List for those who would like to support the horses!
For More Information: Visit www.pal-o-mine.org or call 631-348-1389

Help Jayette Send Care Packages to “The Forgotten People”

Photo of Jayette Lansbury and a Rose by Katheryn Laible

Photos of Jayette Lansbury and a Rose  Katheryn Laible

The very first feature article Synchronicity published was about Jayette Lansbury: Tireless Champion for People who are Impacted by Mental Illness and for Compassionate Criminal Justice Reform. In that piece you can read about how Jayette responded to a most unfortunate circumstance by determining to mix the education she had started with a driving passion to be a part of the solution for all families.

“Is it hard to talk about these things? Sure it is,” says Jayette, “but I don’t care about stigma anymore. Things are hard enough without worrying about what people think. People have to remember that mental illness knows no cultural or socioeconomic boundaries. Any one of these people could be your child, your spouse, your friend. We’re all God’s children and we’ve got to help everyone.”
 

Right now — you can help her send love and practical care to “The Forgotten People.” She’s collecting:
 
1. Brand New Socks
 
2. Puzzle Books
 
3. Signed Cards — A simple hand-written “Happy Holidays” will do to make it personal.
 
4. Candy Canes
 
She needs them all by December 20th.
Arrange drop off by emailing lansburyhunt@aol.com or calling her at 631-988-7619.
Thanks!


You can hear the love in Jayette’s voice when she talks about the 200 pairs of socks and crisp holiday cards she annually sends to the Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center. You can also hear the pain when she explains why it’s so important:

“There are roughly 2,000 people in forensic psychiatric facilities in NYS. They are called ‘The Forgotten People.’ So many of those people have been abandoned and really do feel forgotten. One of them happens to be my son, but I’m not going to let him be forgotten. I’m not going to let ANY of them be forgotten. This helps them know there are people outside who care.”

Also! If you will, please set aside magazines and books that might be shared with people held in that facility. She’ll be collecting those in the New Year. Thanks.

Puppies with Purpose: The Guide Dog Foundation & America’s Vet Dogs

Two Service Dog Trainee Puppies

Photo provided by The Guide Dog Foundation and America’s Vet Dogs

Let's Talk About PUPPIES!!!

Back before COVID turned the world upside down, we were grateful to tour the Guide Dog Foundation in Smithtown with Chief Growth Officer Jennifer Gisler and Philanthropy Officer Karman Pun. This organization gives loyal “eyes” to people who are blind or have low vision. Its sister organization, America’s VetDogs offers the same and so much more to veterans and first responders overcoming a multitude of physical and mental health challenges.

If you’re looking for something hopeful and heartwarming — who isn’t? — the newsletter, event pages and other materials of the The Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs are wonderful, filled with inspiring stories about the extraordinary impact these amazing creatures have. You can also check out their Puppy With a Purpose® program. Their collaboration with the NHL, MLB, and other sport organizations to raise awareness about their mission has made America’s VetDogs one of the most recognizable names in the service animal community.

Providing Support, Companionship, and Purpose

What these dogs provide to the folks they serve is extraordinary. In addition to physical support, a 2018 Purdue Study indicated that veterans with service dogs had significantly reduced PTSD, depression, and anxiety, and an increased willingness to engage socially.

“Veterans tell us their dog gives them purpose,” explains Gisler, who serves as chief growth officer of both organizations, “and a really good incentive to focus on the here and now.”

It is not uncommon to hear someone say, “Thank you for giving me back my spouse.”

These folks have many incredible stories, which they love to share. Some are on video here. We strongly recommend taking some time with them, both to better understand the experience of the organizations’ clients, and the incredible ways they are assisted. One favorite is about a veteran who suffered severe PTSD. He now no longer takes any medication save what he calls his “Big Black Pill,” the Labrador Retriever who now serves him.

Photo: Service dog accompanies a veteran with a prosthetic leg up the stairs.
An America's Vet Dog at work. Image provided by the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs

Brief History

If you’d like to delve into the history of dogs assisting people with disabilities, you can check out this article from the International Federation of Guide Dogs. Briefly, the first known record of a dog serving as a dedicated human assistant appears to have been depicted at around 100 AD. The first systemic attempt to train for this occurred around 1780. The modern story of guide dogs begins during the First World War in Germany.

In Smithtown, while its sister organization, America’s VetDogs, wasn’t founded until 2003, the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind has always helped blind veterans. That full history is here. To summarize, in 1946, five community leaders saw a great need to assist those who were blind or visually impaired and committed themselves to finding a way to provide service animals at no cost to those in need. They started out in Forest Hills, Queens. The first trainer was a man named William Holzmann, who helped develop an effective training method. The first to receive guide dogs were Vito Vero and Arthur Torgensen.

The endeavor was a success. By the 1950s, they moved to Smithtown where they were able to develop a full-fledged facility.

Growing Interest

The most famous recipient of an America’s VetDogs service dog was probably President George H.W. Bush. At his request, his dear Sully continues to serve the nation at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He’s also a master of PR, having done an excellent job of elevating VetDogs’ profile.

“Sully has put us on the global stage,” says Gisler. “He’s sparked BIG INFLUX in interest in our programs!”

We actually got to see Sully when we were visiting! He was getting a little R&R — not because he was tired from helping service members, but because he’d just been honored by the Animal Medical Center of New York and named “Top Dog of Year” two weeks prior at the ASPCA. He needed a little break after all that limelight.

As the organizations work to meet growing requests for their dogs, they renovated their training facility. While some expansion is involved, they’re working to be as efficient as possible, increasing functionality and using what they have as optimally as possible.

Of course, as they continue to meet the needs of the individuals they serve, they will need additional funding for their continued growth. They are exceptionally grateful for any gift large or small that they receive!

Where They Serve

 

The organizations receive 150–200 applications per year for their guide and service dog programs. In their most recent fiscal year, the Guide Dog Foundation and Vet Dogs placed 135 dogs, mostly locally. Among these were 49 guide dogs for the blind and 89 to serve veterans dealing with PTSD, loss of limbs, hearing loss and other disabilities. There’s a one-year wait for guide dogs, and a two-year wait for a service dog.

There are a few key requirements. Veterans must have been honorably discharged. No recipient may have felonies on their records or history of animal cruelty.

It costs north of $55,000 to breed, raise, and train each dog, in part because it takes a special dog to do this job, and you have to raise and train him or her to know if the animal is suitable. To the recipient the dog is FREE. Given the ability it grants the owner to participate in life, the actual value is immeasurable.

Generally, the puppies are whelped at the Foundation headquarters in Smithtown, where they spend their first 6–8 weeks of life. At this point, you may volunteer to be a “puppy camper.” Puppy campers may take the dogs for two weeks at a time, helping them to become basically socialized. Next, a volunteer puppy raiser steps in to care for, teach and socialize the dogs until they are between 14 and 18 months old.

As a puppy raiser, you teach basic puppy obedience including how to behave in a public setting. You’re also encouraged to take these animals wherever you go to help socialize and familiarize them in as many new and diverse surroundings as possible.

Once raised, it’s hard to leave the puppy, but many find the fact that they can just keep doing this helps a lot. Those involved in the raising are also invited to the celebration (pre-Covid) that occurs when graduate and full-fledged guide or service dogs have completed their training. Getting to see the huge difference the dog they raised makes on someone’s life helps, too. It’s a very special day.

The organization also maintains a relationship with 14 prisons in 8 states, hosting a special prison puppy raising program that is mutually beneficial to both the dogs and those incarcerated. Becoming a prison puppy raiser is earned by the inmates and there is an in-depth screening process. The strict schedule provides a good environment for training. The experience, it turns out, has also been proven to help inmates with reintegration into the community.

Photo of service dog puppy at the grocery store
Service Dog in Training. Photo provided by the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs

Formal Training

On average, half of the dogs make it to formal training, which lasts from three to five months. Some turn out to be better suited for other careers, such as working in law enforcement, or perhaps in service to individuals with autism. Others are adopted, usually due to medical issues such as an elbow displacement or allergies. For one, the animals have to be fit to serve their function. For another, they want to make sure recipients aren’t saddled with large medical bills. In these cases, the volunteer who raised the puppy gets first option to adopt.

Trainers are all paid, and they earn it! Roughly 20 trainers are employed by the Foundation and VetDogs, each assigned to their own groups of four or five dogs. The way each dog is trained is a little different, depending on the needs of the client. In addition to helping with blindness, the animals can assist with hearing, other physical disabilities, balance, and emotional support. The dog may be trained to pick up keys or open a door. Some may alert their owner about a microwave going off, a fire alarm or a doorbell, assessing the situation then tapping their person to respond.

Building the Relationship

Once a dog is fully trained, it’s time to introduce the client. The two are uniquely matched to suit size, pace, temperament, and other considerations.

Normally, the organizations host 15–20 classes per year. For the client, ALL expenses are covered, including transportation. A full-time chef is also on staff, which is important for helping accommodate many clients’ special dietary needs.

Service dog class lasts for two weeks. Traditionally, on Sunday, the client would arrive on campus and get settled, starting bright and early on Monday with training and orientation. On Tuesday, human and dog finally meet. From there on in, the dog stays full time with his or her person.

What happens next depends on the needs of the client. The facility itself has several special areas where dog and human can acclimate and learn together before trying their skills out in the real world. One such facility is a “relief area,” where one learns to curb their dog. Cement helps, especially for the vision impaired, so dogs are trained to go on command on concrete. There is also a guide dog obstacle course, as well as a “McDonalds” room, where one can learn how to navigate such experiences, starting with finding an empty seat. Once dog and client have some practice together, they are ready to go to town.

There are lots of field trips based around training in different environments. Guide and service dog teams will visit busy towns, take a trip to Manhattan and even the airport to prepare for their future work together.

By the next Saturday everyone is ready to CELEBRATE!

Photo of Service Dog Puppy sitting in the grass
Another puppy with a purpose. Photo provided by the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs

COVID Accommodations

Of course, nothing has been normal since last March of 2020. However, the organizations have long taken pride in their ability to innovate and adapt. At first, they had to shut down like most everyone, and were exceptionally grateful for the wealth of caring volunteers who helped house the dogs while the facility was closed. By July, guide dog mobility instructors were able to resume on-campus work with their guide dogs in training. In August, they began home placements with guide dog students, some of whom had been waiting months for their new guide dogs.

In a home placement, student and instructor work one-on-one in and around the student’s home community. It’s nice, in that the experience is therefore specifically tailored. However, it’s expensive as this process incurs additional costs such as lodging, meals, and more as the guide dog mobility instructors must be on the road for two weeks.

Service dog instructors have also continued to train and work throughout the pandemic. In August, VetDogs was able to host two veterans on their campus to begin training. Success required restructuring the traditional two-week class to begin with virtual training over several days. Then, clients were invited to the campus for eight days of in-person training and support. Students and instructors are masked, and all participants maintain appropriate social distancing. Again, it works but it’s expensive, especially as class size must be so limited.

The organizations will continue to safely host these micro-classes and home placement in an effort to place as many of these special dogs with those who have been waiting so patiently.

They are grateful for long-standing supporters and anyone new who is willing to stand by their side as they continue to serve the community during these uncertain times. Like all of us, they look forward to being able to return as soon as possible to close-to-normal operations, and to get back to fully doing what they do best: Training and placing these very special dogs with those who need them.

YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED! — Puppy Starters, Raisers, and Other Volunteers

The Foundation ALWAYS needs puppy raisers. This can range from a few weeks to a 15-month gig. An important criterion is that you have to be able to limit crate time to no more than 4–6 hours per day. Weekend puppy raisers take the dogs on a part-time basis. Prison puppy raisers keep their dogs Monday through Friday. Some college campuses, such as the University of Georgia, have established puppy raising groups.

It’s not just puppy caretakers that are required. More than 1600 volunteers across country serve as raisers, bathers, walkers, and drivers. Each volunteer role is vital to the organizations’ success!

MAJOR GIFTS — Sponsorship is Key. Business Partners Welcome!!!

Sponsors enable the entire program to happen and are particularly needed now that things have become so difficult. Financial support at any level is deeply appreciated.

The Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs are especially grateful for the partnerships they have developed with a growing list of corporate sponsors for their corporate puppy with a purpose program. There are two levels of major corporate sponsorship: $25,000 if the sponsor provides the puppy raiser, $50,000 if the organizations do. Sponsors earn the right to name the puppy and are expected to assist in outreach through dedicated social media campaigns.

Sponsors like the New York Islanders and the Washington Capitals report that this is a wonderful way, not only to support the organization and its work, but also to raise company morale, especially as the experience involves so much hands-on time with the puppies.

ANY LEVEL OF SUPPORT HELPS — Smaller Dollar & Supply Donations

The Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs gratefully accept any financial gift. They also maintain a list of needed supplies, such as towels, approved dog toys, and more.

The Summit is Coming! We Get to GO!

Can’t say it enough: These in-depth interviews hosted by Eric Alexander featuring a broad range of local leaders are fantastic. Learn and get inspired by these amazing Long Island community members….We do!

Honestly, like they always seem to, the good folks of Vision Long Island have done an incredible job of turning the challenges of the COVID-19 era into new opportunities to highlight people making a huge difference in our communities, and generally helping those folks wrap their heads around the challenges and opportunities of today.

Still. We’ve REALLY missed being able to see these folks in person. We are so excited that the Smart Growth Summit is being held November 17-19, 2021 and will have an in-person component on the final day!

 

Check out their website for details and get on their email list!

General Needs is On A Mission

The primary mission of General Needs is to assist homeless veterans and veterans in need to live lives of dignity by providing new, basic essentials.

Have you seen what Lonnie Sherman’s been up to lately? The General Needs 1342 Mission, traveling from Maine to DC, is donating 1342 (22 x 61) pairs of boots and 8,030 (22 x 365) pairs of socks to serve veterans and draw our solemn attention to the 22 veterans who, on average, take their own lives each day.

Visit the General Needs Facebook Page for an incredibly touching photo journal. Check out this article from wcax.com.

There is still time to support this

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian: Save the Dates

Pal O Mine Events Flyer

You can read all about Pal-O-Mine Equestrian in this article we wrote. Basically, it’s a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities, the abused or neglected, the impoverished and the military.


June 4 — The Pal-O-Mine Stakes
at Pal-O-Mine

June 28 — Par Fore the Horse at Southward Ho Country Club, Bay Shore

July 11-17 — Ride for Pal-O-Mine at Pal-O-Mine

September 12 — Fall Festival and Concert at Pal-O-Mine

For More Information: Visit www.pal-o-mine.org or call 631-348-1389