First Annual Loughlin Charity Golf Open To Benefit International Children’s Care
August 25, 2008
(Huntington, N.Y.) – A new fundraiser for orphaned children will take place on September 8, 2008, at the Indian Hills Country Club in Northport, New York, with the tee off of the first annual Jim & Yvette Loughlin Charity Golf Open. Proceeds will benefit International Children’s Care, an international non-profit organization which has been helping orphaned children for more than 30 years.
“The mission of the Jim & Yvette Loughlin Charity Golf Open is to raise money for the benefit of non-profit organizations that do outstanding work improving the quality of life, education and health of underprivileged people throughout the world,” said James J. Loughlin, Jr., founding principal of Loughlin Meghji + Co and co-chairman of the event with his wife, Yvette. “This year’s event will benefit International Children’s Care, a tremendous organization that benefits orphaned children throughout the world.”
“We have seen ICC’s efforts firsthand on a recent trip to Guatemala to visit the boy we sponsor,” said Yvette Loughlin. “ICC’s commitment and dedication to these unfortunate children was impressive and nothing short of life-changing. The children were also impressive. They couldn’t be more thankful for what they receive or more loving toward their surrogate parents, donors and each other. However, the needs of the organization are tremendous and we were moved to try to make a difference in the lives of children who have so little and need our help.”
Jim and Yvette Loughlin are proud to announce some of the companies who have sponsored the event: Loughlin, Meghji + Co; Chilmark Partners, L.L.C.; Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP; Conway, Del Genio, Gries & Co. LLC; Miller Buckfire; Silver Point Capital; FTI Consulting; Alvarez & Marsal; and The Hilco Organization. Sponsorships are still available, as are tee times for golfers who want to participate in the fundraising effort.
For more information please visit www.loughlinopen.org.
Loughlin Charity Golf Open Schedule
- 10:30am
Registration, Open Driving Range and Putting Green; Continental Breakfast - 12:00pm
Shotgun Start; BBQ Lunch at Halfway House, Beverage Cart - Hole-in-One JetBlue Challenge (Prizes for all par 3s) - 5:30pm
Welcome/Dinner & Awards; Silent Auction and Raffle featuring one-of-a-kind sports items
About International Children’s Care
International Children’s Care (ICC) is a private relief and development organization. ICC was established in 1976 for the specific purpose of giving high quality care for needy children. As an internationally recognized Non-Governmental Organization, ICC fulfills this primary directive of its charter without regard to the children’s ethnic, political, or religious association.
ICC works on behalf of orphaned, abandoned and needy children. Each child’s unique circumstances determine how ICC applies this philosophy. If it is not possible for the child to live with its birth parents, ICC places the child in a loving, natural family unit. This may be a home on an ICC facility or an adoptive home.
ICC will provide this assistance as circumstances permit in any developing country where there is a need and an opportunity to serve. ICC will go where its resources can be employed most effectively. International Children’s Care is a 501(c)(3) organization. All gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. For more information, please visit www.forhiskids.org.
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Owen Blicksilver Public Relations
http://www.blicksilverpr.com
New Research Study Seeks Improved Quality of Life for People in the Future with Schizophrenia
August 25, 2008
Miranda Chakos, MD of SUNY Downstate Medical Center leads research for local patients
(West Babylon, N.Y.) Imagine going through the day without the ability to concentrate and focus on the things you enjoy and important tasks that you need to complete. Think what it would be like, struggling to remember what you just talked about or learned a short time ago. Consider how you would feel if you couldn’t even accomplish simple tasks, such as making a phone call, grocery shopping or scheduling an appointment.
We all have challenging moments . . . but for people suffering from schizophrenia, these frustrations are a way of life, virtually every day. People with schizophrenia struggle to concentrate, remember and learn. These deficits associated with the thinking process are called cognitive impairments, making it difficult to accomplish the demands of everyday life, both big and small.
Managing the demands of daily life is made easier when individuals with schizophrenia maintain a stable regimen of medication – even more so for those with trusted family members or caregivers to help oversee the individual’s personal affairs and coordinate care. Despite the challenges, most people with schizophrenia and their caregivers are searching for a better quality of life.
Fortunately, there is hope, thanks to a new investigational drug research study now underway in the West Babylon, NY area. The primary goal of this study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an investigational drug in improving cognitive functioning for people with schizophrenia, using a new evaluation tool called MATRICS (Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia). This study is unique because participants are not required to change their already-stable medication regimen. Rather, the new investigational medication is added to their currently established treatment.
Candidates for this study must be 18 to 65 years old, diagnosed with schizophrenia at or before age 35 and currently taking one of five medications for schizophrenia which include olanzapine, risperidone/paliperidone, quetiapine or aripiprazole. Participants must also be considered outpatient (living in the community). Qualified study participants will receive all investigational medication and study-related care at no cost, and may also receive compensation for travel.
Miranda Chakos, MD of SUNY Downstate Medical Center seeks participants for this new study. If you or someone you know suffers from schizophrenia, please contact us for additional information at 888.988.6736. Further details about the study are also available at www.cognitivestudy.com.
Top Collegiate Basketball Coaches Featured at 2008 Jimmy V Dinner Auction
August 22, 2008
Top Collegiate Basketball Coaches Featured at 2008 Jimmy V Dinner Auction
Rick Barnes, Jay Wright, Bob Huggins and Bob McKillop Among Participants at 14th Annual V Foundation Event
(New York, NY) – The V Foundation for Cancer Research, one of the nation’s leading cancer research fundraising organizations, is proud to announce the date of their 2008 Jimmy V Basketball Classic New York Dinner Auction which is presented in partnership with Madison Square Garden and Team ESPN. The event will take place on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 at PIER SIXTY at New York City’s Chelsea Piers and will be hosted by ESPN Radio’s Mike and Mike in the Morning Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic. The evening will also feature “Friend of V” speaker, broadcaster, author and brother of the late Coach Jim Valvano, Bob Valvano.
The dinner’s traditional special guests are the head coaches of the Jimmy V Basketball Classics teams. This year’s coaches include the 2008 Jimmy V Women’s Basketball Classic head coaches Andy Landers from the University of Georgia and C. Vivian Stringer from Rutgers University. Representing the 2008 Jimmy V Basketball Classic men’s teams, will be Rick Barnes, from the University of Texas, Jay Wright from Villanova University, Bob Huggins from West Virginia University and Bob McKillop from Davidson University.
“We are honored to have these great coaches come to preview the 2008 Classics,” said CEO of The V Foundation Nick Valvano. “This is the 14th Annual Classic and every year the Dinner Auction provides a traditional tip off for New York basketball that is so reminiscent of my brother Jim’s love for his hometown and the game that meant so much throughout his entire life.”
One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event will fund cancer research projects through The V Foundation. Sponsorship opportunities as well as tickets for the event are available. For information about the 2008 Jimmy V Basketball Classic New York Dinner Auction, please contact The V Foundation for Cancer Research at 1-800-4JimmyV or log onto www.jimmyv.org.
The V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State basketball coach and ESPN commentator. Since 1993, The Foundation has raised more than $70 million to fund cancer research grants nationwide. It awards 100 percent of all new direct cash donations and net proceeds of events directly to cancer research and related programs. The Foundation, which has received five consecutive top 4-star ratings from Charity Navigator, awards grants through a competitive awards process strictly supervised by a Scientific Review Committee. For more information on The V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit www.jimmyv.org.
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Local Not-for-Profit Mercy Haven Inc. Celebrates Completion of Homeless Outreach Program in third Community
August 20, 2008
(Bay Shore, NY) Mercy Unto Thousands, a community-based outreach and educational program provided by Mercy Haven, Inc., successfully completed the third series of its Breakthrough sessions in Bay Shore, NY. The program focuses on providing tools of empowerment for the homeless, one community at a time.
On the evening of August 7th, 2008, Mercy Haven, Inc. celebrated the graduation of 13 dedicated participants from its Mercy Unto Thousands Breakthrough Program for individuals of the Bay Shore area who are currently, or have experienced homelessness. The group, consisting of both men and women from the community, was honored at Saint Patrick’s RC Church on Main Street in Bay Shore for their successful completion of the 12-week program. Patricia C., a mother and volunteer mentor for the Bay Shore sessions, shared her experience with the Breakthrough program. She explained to the audience that while she had helped her participant take the first steps in overcoming life’s obstacles, she herself had learned so much. Patricia C. told of her life struggles, and how the program brought a whole new perspective on how we can take the cards we are dealt in life and make the best of what is given us.
It was a touching scene as the graduates were called up one by one to receive a personalized framed certificate. The graduates offered words of gratitude to the volunteers and program mentors for the hard work, dedication and support. After the graduation ceremony, the nearly 70 persons in attendance enjoyed a delicious meal cooked by volunteers from the community and surrounding areas. The 13 participants were clearly empowered by the program as they openly shared their future goals which include obtaining employment, housing, and, for some, even enrolling in school. An important theme of the evening was that hope is what will see us through; hope is a good place to start.
Currently in the works is the securing of time, space and volunteers for the next sessions of Mercy Unto Thousands, location TBD. If you are interested in organizing meals, mentoring, donating bicycles or your time in some way, please call the Mercy Haven main office at (631) 277-8300.
Mercy Unto Thousands encourages learning and self-discovery for approximately 12 individuals from one community at a time. Each session begins with a healthy, hot meal prepared and coordinated by volunteers. An exciting element of Mercy Unto Thousand’s 24 session program is Breakthrough, a profound journey of self-empowerment. The Breakthrough sessions are unique because the participants are individually teamed up with a mentor for 7 of the sessions. These sessions will provide a great deal of basic skill building and help to create obtainable goals for the participants. Each mentor is trained by Mercy Unto Thousand’s organizer S. Kathy Nolan, co-founder of Mercy Haven, Inc.
During the summer of 2007, The Mercy Unto Thousands program was introduced with much success in Sayville, NY, with the first group consisting of 11 men and women. The program was also completed in Patchogue in April 2008 with a total of eight participants. The Sayville and Patchogue groups still meet on a monthly basis to discuss their goals and accomplishments, as will the newly graduated participants of Mercy Unto Thousands in Bay Shore.
Established in 1985, Mercy Haven, Inc. is a non-sectarian, not-for-profit 501(c) (3) corporation committed through its mission to engage and support Long Island’s most at risk. Through advocacy, supportive services, education and outreach Mercy Haven offers a place to experience and practice compassion. http://www.mercyhaven.org/
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Mercy Haven Raises Significant Funds During Annual Ride for Change Motorcycle Run
August 20, 2008
RIDE FOR A CAUSE. RIDE FOR A REASON. RIDE FOR CHANGE!
(Islip Terrace, NY) On Sunday, August 10th, 2008, Mercy Haven Inc. of Islip Terrace hosted their 2nd Annual Ride for Change Motorcycle Poker Run. The purpose of the event was to raise funds to support and maintain the quality of Mercy Haven’s programs, which aid and assist our nation’s veterans, those living with traumatic brain injury, the elderly, as well as individuals/families whose lives have been affected by homelessness, poverty and mental illness.
Nearly 80 motorcyclists participated in Mercy Haven’s 2nd Annual Ride for Change on Sunday, August 10th, 2008. The event raised significant funds to support the agency’s programs and services that aid and support our nation’s veterans, those living with traumatic brain injury, the elderly, as well as individuals/families whose lives have been affected by homelessness, poverty and mental illness . The Ride began with registration at Mercy Haven’s main office in Islip Terrace, was followed by a beautiful ride along the South Shore of Long Island, and ended with an after party at the Holiday Inn of Ronkonkoma.
New for this year’s Ride for Change was the Change Race. The piggy banks, assembled with recyclable materials and named by Mercy Haven participants, were used in a way to have local businesses involved in the fundraising efforts if they could not take on a sponsorship. The piggy banks in total raised over $1000! The winner of the Change Race – All-In-One Pools of Shirley – will receive a FREE party at the Holiday Inn of Ronkonkoma for their great achievement of raising almost $400 alone!
During the celebration after the Ride, a speech written by a Mercy Haven participant was read. She shared her experience with mental illness, as well as her time with the United States Marine Corp. and motorcycle riding. “My road has been a long one with many obstacles,” Lorraine H. shared, “and I need to let you know for those of you struggling, wondering if you will survive, there is a clearing ahead of you.” Her insight and sharing definitely illustrated to all in attendance what exactly they were riding for.
The after party was filled with delicious food prepared by the Holiday Inn, music played by Long Island’s own 102.3 WBAB and BILLY JOEL-SIGNED CDs generously donated by the Long Island legend, as well as numerous other raffle prizes. Through the generosity of the sponsors, motorcyclists and event volunteers, Mercy Haven’s 2nd Annual Ride for Change Motorcycle Poker Run was undoubtedly dubbed a success by all those that attended. The date for next year’s Run is Sunday, August 9th. Mark your calendars; this is an event that should not be missed!
Established in 1985, Mercy Haven, Inc. is a non-sectarian, not-for-profit 501(c) (3) corporation committed through its mission to engage and support Long Island’s most at risk. Through advocacy, supportive services, education and outreach Mercy Haven offers a place to experience and practice compassion. http://www.mercyhaven.org/
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Amana Tool Unveils In-Tech™ Series of Replaceable Knife Router Bits
August 20, 2008
New line contains popular bit profiles featuring industrial-quality carbide inserts that increase tool life and reduce production costs
(Farmingdale, N.Y.) – Amana Tool, manufacturers of industrial-quality tungsten carbide woodworking tools, today announced its In-Tech™ line of replaceable carbide insert knife router bits that bring industrial woodworking technology to portable router machines. The series comprises nine router bits that feature industrial-quality replaceable carbide knives instead of standard brazed carbide tips. In-Tech router bits are priced comparable to standard router bits but last up to four times longer, saving users money during the life of the tool as knives are replaced rather than the entire tool.
The In-Tech replaceable knives are made of a harder sub-micro grade carbide than those used on standard brazed router bits. This higher grade of carbide significantly increases the life of the router bit and makes the bits ideal for use in harder types of materials such as MDF and chipboard. By replacing worn knives instead of sharpening standard carbide tipped bits, router bit dimensions, cutting quality and accuracy remain constant during the life of the tool.
Amana Tool technical director, Frank Misiti, said, “We take great pride in our customer-focused innovation and are pleased to provide industrial-quality cutting tools and precision for the home user at an affordable price. With the unveiling of our In-Tech series, we’re now ensuring that our customers can achieve the best results possible while saving labor, time and money.”
In-Tech router bits have a 1/4” shank and are available in nine popular profiles The In-Tech router bits are sold individually starting at $16.88 USD, and replacement knives start at $3.08 USD through Amana Tool’s authorized distributors. For the location nearest you, visit www.amanatool.com.
About Amana Tool
An industry leader for more than 35 years, Amana Tool specializes in solid carbide, carbide insert and carbide-tipped cutting tools for the woodworking, aluminum and plastics industry. Amana Tool’s full line of high-quality woodworking tools includes saw blades, router bits, shaper cutters, boring bits and more for wood, solid surface, aluminum and plastics. The company was founded in 1972 and has corporate headquarters in Farmingdale, N.Y. For a complete listing of Amana Tool’s products, visit www.amanatool.com.
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Congressman Mike Ferguson honors Jeanine Castagna, Esq. as an Angel in Adoption™
August 20, 2008
To Be Recognized at National Event in Washington, DC
(Garden City, NY) - Congressman Mike Ferguson has nominated attorney Jeanine Castagna (pictured left) as a 2008 Angel in Adoption™ for her outstanding advocacy of adoption issues. The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI), which orchestrates the Angels in Adoption™ program, will honor Jeanine Castagna, along with more than 180 Angels, at an awards ceremony and gala event in Washington, DC, September 16, 2008.
Jeanine Castagna has been involved with adoption for over a decade. She received her law degree from Hofstra University in 1996 and has been practicing adoption law ever since. Six years ago Jeanine started her own practice in Garden City, New York that focuses specifically on adoption law. Throughout her career, Jeanine has been involved in over three hundred private placement domestic newborn adoptions, step-parent adoptions and international re-adoptions. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, a member of the Adoption Committee of the New York State Bar Association, the American Fertility Association, RESOLVE, the National Infertility Network Exchange, and of DES Action. She and her husband, Edward, are founding members of the Tender Loving Care Foundation, a non-profit organization supporting the parents of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit of the North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System in New York, as well as serving on the Board of Directors for that organization.
The Angels in Adoption™ program is CCAI’s signature public awareness campaign and provides an opportunity for all members of the U.S. Congress to honor the good work of their constituents who have enriched the lives of foster children and orphans in the United States and abroad.
This year, CCAI is celebrating their 10th Anniversary of honoring ordinary people doing extraordinary things! Over the last 10 years, CCAI has highlighted the work of over 1,300 people making a lasting difference in the life of a child.
“The Angels in Adoption program is unlike any other program in the Nation’s Capitol. Because of it, over 1300 “Angels” have come to share with Washington their adoption experience and left with a renewed excitement of all that adoption makes possible,” said Kathleen Strottman. “I learned one simple lesson from my time on the hill, knowledge is power. Angels in Adoption is meant to give Members of Congress the knowledge they need to use the power they have toward making the dream of a family a reality for every child.”
In addition to the more than 180 local angels from around the country, several National Angels will also be recognized at the ceremony and gala for their dedication and commitment nationally and internationally to child welfare on a grand scale. Former “National Angels” include First Lady Laura Bush, Patti LaBelle, Jane Seymour, Muhammad Ali, the late Dave Thomas, Steven Curtis Chapman, Bruce Willis, Alonzo Mourning, and Marcus Samuelsson.
The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) is a 501(c)3 nonpartisan organization dedicated to raising awareness about the tens of thousands of orphans and foster children in the United States and the millions of orphans around the world in need of permanent, safe, and loving homes through adoption. CCAI’s goal is the elimination of the barriers that hinder these children from realizing their basic right of a family.
CCAI was created in 2001 by the active co-chairs of the bicameral, bipartisan Congressional Coalition on Adoption (CCA) to more effectively raise Congressional and public awareness about the issue of adoption.
The Angels in Adoption™ program was established in 1999 as a Congressional press conference to honor outstanding individuals. Since then, the program has developed into a yearlong public awareness campaign culminating in an extraordinary awards Gala and celebration in Washington, D.C.
The Angels in Adoption™ program is made possible through the generous support of Diamond and Founding Sponsor, the Freddie Mac Foundation, and Platinum Sponsor, SuperValu, Inc.
CCAI does not receive any government funding and they rely on the generous support of foundations, corporations, and individuals to accomplish their mission. For more information visit http://www.ccainstitute.org
Achieving Hugh Carey’s “True Economy”
August 17, 2008
Fiscal crises, three decades apart, affirm opportunity for budget reform
By Malcolm A. Smith
(New York, N.Y.) In 1975, Governor Hugh Carey made the call that New York was facing an economic downturn and that immediate steps needed to be taken to keep our economy on track. More than three decades later, New York has been put on notice again after Governor David Paterson brought attention to a similar crisis earlier in the month.
The players are different, but not all that much has changed. Just as they did in 1975, skeptics are questioning the severity of what we face. But they aren’t the ones who may lose their jobs, homes or ability to support their families when the economy sputters. Whether history will show this to have been a crisis or not, we now have an opportunity to enact real budget reforms that will better serve our state in both good times and bad.
Both houses of the Legislature will return to Albany Tuesday to reduce spending, but it is vitally important that cuts not be the only fix to a systemic problem. Necessary as it may be, cutting a budget is not a program.
As part of any plan for fiscal responsibility, we have to recognize that budget cuts are temporarily fixes that don’t solve the long-term problems we face. And while putting spending in line with revenues and stopping waste is a good first step, there are fundamental principles the Legislature must learn to follow.
We must ensure a broad-based revenue stream. In most years, Wall Street bonuses account for about 20 percent of the revenue our state collects, so when Wall Street is suffering, the state budget suffers. We need to diversify our revenue so that the state isn’t so reliant on Wall Street to fill its coffers. Investments in new technologies and industries will allow us to move forward even when Wall Street struggles.
We need to re-examine the tax code. Much of the current tax code is regressive, placing a particular burden on middle-income families. Fixing these unfair disparities will provide immediate relief to those who need it. We need to grow the economy and provide incentives and eliminate red tape for business to stay in New York.
In good economic times we need to increase the “store room,” so that in lean years people and services are protected. Responsible budgeting allows for a rainy day fund that is simply not a possibility when operating over-budget.
We didn’t get here overnight. The hurdle we face today has been decades in the making. The Republican-led Senate controlled by special interests has left us with a bloated budget and the highest taxes in the nation. At the core of their fiscal theory is overspending, irresponsible quick fixes and refusing to accept fiscal realities.
Because of poor spending habits, New York has been left with over $50 billion in state-funded debt and more than $80 billion in debt from public authorities due to poor budgeting and mismanagement. Anyone who ran their household expenses like that would soon be out on the street. We can do more with less.
Every dollar that the state spends must be accounted for, and taxpayers should have the peace of mind knowing their money is being spent to benefit and improve their lives.
We hear story after story of pension fraud, Medicaid overpayment and other failures of accountability. Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has been doing a great service by skillfully exposing this waste, but the task is enormous when done only after the budget is approved - the job has to start with those crafting the budget.
Economic crisis or not, millions of New Yorkers are living in crisis mode, having to choose between healthcare, food, and housing costs. We must continue to work and grow the economy by eliminating red tape and restrictions that slow business and job creation. We must provide meaningful incentives that attract and keep businesses and their jobs in New York.
In his 1975 State of State, Carey said: “All we say and all we do is shaped by two harsh facts. One is that the nation is in deep economic difficulty. The second is that New York State suffers more than its full share of the nation’s travail.” Carey tried then for a “true economy”—one that practices wise and careful spending. Yet, today the root problems remain unfixed, ignoring the reality that economies work in cycles, and responsible advance planning eases the burden of economic downturns.
I am hopeful that my Senate colleagues will recognize the reality on the ground; every aspect of the State Budget should be re-examined and we need to start taking the necessary steps to protect our economy now and into the future. We all know that this will not be the last economic downturn we will face as a state.
My members see this as an opportunity to change the way the budget is done for the better. I urge my colleagues to join us in not letting this opportunity pass us by.
Long Island Maritime Museum’s 17th Annual Seafood, Craft and Music Festival
August 15, 2008
Suffolk County Parks is the proud sponsor of Long Island Maritime Museum’s 17th Annual Seafood, Craft and Music Festival August 23-24, 2008
(West Sayville, N.Y.) The Long Island Maritime Museum’s Annual Seafood Festival, to be held this year on Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24, 2008, is one of the summer’s hottest events. Last year, over 18,000 people came through the gates of the festival, which combines arts and crafts, education and live entertainment with some of the Island’s best seafood. It is held at the Museum’s waterfront park adjacent to the West Sayville Golf Course at the foot of West Avenue in West Sayville.
This year’s visitors won’t be disappointed. Once again, the Festival committee has worked hard to add new and exciting attractions to the event. There will be over 70 exhibitors of fine arts and crafts on hand coordinated by Preferred Promotions of Long Island. The Festival will feature over thirty activities and displays provided by some of Long Island’s most important environmental and educational groups. The event, catered for the first time by Lessings, Inc., will have more sumptuous seafood available than ever before.
Music has become a major focal point of this festival and this year is no exception. There will be an eclectic mix of music, sure to appeal to a broad audience. The Festival is proud to announce a very special, homegrown and local musical lineup featuring Paging Grace (songs featured on ‘The Hills”), The Turn, Jake Incao, Rick Eberle of Iridesense (songs featured on Zoey 101, Drake & Josh, iCarly), Beautiful Vision, Blues Rock Legend Jon Paris, and Jacks Waterfall (a musical adventure in pop, blues, jazz and global folk) on Saturday. Sunday will feature Lucky Star (Bluegrass Celtic Rock) and Karma Sutra (an exciting mix of reggae, Grateful Dead and some originals). There will also be a Sea Shanty stage, featuring Stout, singing maritime music as well as American and Irish folksongs on both festival days. See the Maritime Museum website (www.limaritime.org) for a complete list of performers.
The Long Island Maritime Museum has added the special attraction of Ye Pirate Brotherhood, a hardy crew of 17th century buccaneers with a sharp theatrical edge, reliving the days of high seas adventure on the Spanish Main. Ye Pirate Brotherhood will be enacting a scallywag pirate show and treasure hunt on both festival days that is sure to be fun for the whole family!
Bring your family and friends, (no pets will be allowed) this year’s event promises to be full of fun and excitement for all. Gates will open at 10:00 am and close at 6:00 pm. Food vendors will remain open until 6:00 pm and the music will continue until 7:00 pm both days. Visitors to the Festival will be able to take advantage of the new expanded off-site parking and the shuttle service from several locations. On-line advanced ticket sales will be available this year with a preferred parking area available exclusively to the online advance ticket holders. Admission to the Festival is $5.00, which goes directly to support the Museum’s operations. Children 5 and under are free. The Seafood Festival is the largest single fundraising event for the Long Island Maritime Museum in West Sayville. The Museum is dedicated to the preservation of Long Island’s rich maritime history and heritage for educational purposes. For further information about the Seafood Festival, or all other events, please call (631) HISTORY or visit the website at www.limaritime.org. Craft vendors interested in participating in the event, please call (631) 563-8551.
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MPP’s Rob Kampia to Host Press Conference at Seattle Hempfest Saturday
August 15, 2008
Head of Largest U.S. Marijuana Policy Reform Organization to Discuss Progress Across the Country, Future for Washington
(Seattle, W.A.) The executive director of the Marijuana Policy Project will provide an overview of current marijuana policy reform efforts and their implications for Washington in a press conference during a media brunch at Seattle Hempfest, Saturday. He will also introduce a small panel of speakers who will highlight their work.
Rob Kampia said voters and legislators will weigh in on several groundbreaking measures this year. Some of the most important include MPP’s Michigan ballot initiative to become the 13th state to protect seriously ill patients from arrest and jail for using medical marijuana with a doctor’s recommendation, as well as U.S. Rep. Barney Frank’s (D-Mass.) bill to remove federal criminal penalties for small marijuana violations.
Of particular relevance in Washington may be a Massachusetts ballot initiative to replace criminal penalties for minor marijuana violations with civil penalties, much like a traffic ticket. If Massachusetts voters pass the initiative on Election Day, it would mean the state has the best marijuana law in the country, Kampia said – and could set the stage for Washington to follow suit.
“This November, Massachusetts voters can ensure that adults who use marijuana responsibly never suffer the lifetime consequences of arrest, including lost job opportunities, denial of food stamps and housing assistance, losing access to federal student aid, and even prison,” Kampia said. “If Massachusetts voters pass this initiative, you’ll see a number of other states move forward with similar measures, and Washington will be the first state to do so with a ballot initiative.”
Saturday’s brunch runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the media tent at Myrtle Edwards Park. The press conference begins at noon. Sunday’s press conference is hosted by Douglas Hiatt, a criminal defense attorney who defends Washington’s medical marijuana patients. For more information on Seattle Hempfest, visit http://hempfest.org/drupal/.
With more than 25,000 members and 100,000 e-mail subscribers nationwide, the Marijuana Policy Project is the largest marijuana policy reform organization in the United States. MPP believes that the best way to minimize the harm associated with marijuana is to regulate marijuana in a manner similar to alcohol. For more information, please visit www.MarijuanaPolicy.org.
