Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer recently joined with Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez, Councilman Tom Donnelly, Town Clerk Carol Quirk and Receiver of Taxes Corinne DiSomma to unveil a new stone monument at Tanner Park in Copiague to honor the first responders, organizations and volunteers who helped in recovery efforts following last year’s Superstorm Sandy. Supervisor Schaffer addressed the crowd and spoke of his appreciation for everyone who helped out in the storm’s aftermath. Also speaking to those in attendance were Kim Skillen of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Jim Harrington of the Town of Babylon Fire Chiefs Association and Inspector Gerard Gigante of the Suffolk County Police First Precinct, who discussed their experiences following the storm. Tanner Park, where the monument is located, was one of the Town facilities heavily damaged by the storm.
The monument consists of a bronze plaque that rests on a stone base and lists the numerous organizations that have lent their support to those who were affected by the storm over the past year. The plaque reads: "When the Town of Babylon was struck by Superstorm Sandy in the fall of 2012, many residents were exposed to dangerous storm conditions; some of whom were rescued from their homes. These brave men and women were the first to answer the call when their neighbors needed them the most. We thank them for their service and dedicate this plaque to them."
Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez, Supervisor Schaffer and Councilman Donnelly are pictured reviewing the plaque before the ceremony.