Dan's Papers - June 5, 2009

I was pleased to see the supportive piece "106th of Westhampton at The Shuttle Launch," by Dan Rattiner, in the May 22 issue.

I had the pleasure of attending the groundbreaking recently held for the new $14.5 million facility for the 106th rescue team. I was impressed with the friendliness of the members of the team. It's reassuring to know there are hardy individuals willing to risk their lives to save people in distress. Whether it is in New Orleans for Katrina victims or Cape Canaveral for the Atlantis shuttle, we are fortunate to use tax dollars to improve the training facility in Westhampton for these brave men and women. Now I know what those C-130 cargo planes are doing in the skies above.

Hopefully, I won't be needing their services, but it's good to know they're close by.

These are our heroes. - DR

Granting Shinnecocks recognition, which would lead to new resources and help them win a long sought gambling facility is long overdue. Their valiant attempt to secure this elusive benchmark, if approved by the Interior Department, would be invaluable in elevating their plight and establishing health and educational facilities. For far too long, the Shinnecock Indian Nation has been unable to receive federally recognized status, which has hindered its progress and has left a blemish on Long Island history. Recognition would be immeasurable in providing economic justice and a lifestyle they truly deserve.

Those who oppose the operation of a gambling casino assert that gambling is immoral and unhealthy and that economic promises resulting from gambling don't always pan out. With that being said, they should target their wrath on our state lottery, which spends countless dollars on advertisements convincing us that gambling is recreational and that we could be the next big winner.

See story on page 19.

As a consequence of the East Hampton Town Board's fiscal mismanagement/ineptitude that resulted in a $12 million+ budget deficit, it then displayed the audacity to increase the taxes of the very residents who it failed so miserably.

In addition to raising our taxes, the Town had the arrogance to charge us for the right to access our own beaches. You should know that a quick visit to several of our local beaches today - Alberts Landing, Little Alberts, Fresh Pond and Atlantic Beach - resulted in the discovery that over 50% of the vehicles are without proper beach permit stickers, several of which had out of state license plates.

Now here is a novel idea for all of those on this illustrious board - try utilizing the workers that we pay for via our tax payments by having them visit our beaches and ticketing all of these vehicles without beach permits.

Who knows, it might actually be possible to collect enough money in fines to increase that ever decreasing revenue stream so that we residents won't have to pay for beach stickers next year! Wouldn't that be refreshing?

The Town should do its job and fine these unlawful vehicles and find ways to get us out of this financial mess without further taxing the people whom it has failed.

During the '70s, adult education became very popular. People who had regular jobs could take courses at night or on weekends in a school. We moved into Nassau County and I enrolled in many adult ed courses. You see, a person could have continuing education for a small fee and learn just about everything. So I say continue learning your entire life. A hobby could be very therapeutic and knowing that, you can broaden your horizons at any time.

Now for the family fun category. Travelling the Motor Parkway to Suffolk County was my very own adult education. So get out there. Plan an outing. Take a camera. Join in with the locals. They will welcome you with open arms. Buy some fresh produce.

Go to the flea markets. Strawberry and apple gathering. Small towns. Just go to Riverhead and look around. You'll know what I mean.

You won't be disappointed. Remember, I told you so. I'm going on 73 and never get tired of loving Long Island.