Motorcycle Loud
East Hampton
July 8, 2024
Dear Editor,
For half a century, U.S. agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency have deemed noise pollution "a growing danger to the health and welfare of the nation's population." The European Environment Agency reports that noise ranks second only to air pollution as the environmental exposure "most harmful to public health" (Harvard Medicine Magazine).
It's a beautiful morning in Northwest Woods. The birds are singing, so many that the air seems woven with song. Then it starts. A hundred-and-three decibels of gas-powered hedge trimming. I go inside to finish breakfast. Angry and out of sorts, I walk down to Gardiner’s Bay for a swim. The water is perfect, cool, and calming. An hour of nothing but in breath/out breath settles me down. I walk up from the beach and enter the yard. There it is, still going strong –- 103 decibels (the Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Chart [on nidcd.nih.gov] tells me that’s motorcycle loud).
It's approaching lunchtime. I’d like to sit outside, but 103 decibels is a powerful deterrent. It's still going. That's all morning, from breakfast to lunch. I'm trying not to be angry. But when did we lose our minds and decide that this level of noise from leaf blowers, sit-down mowers, and the whole range of gas-powered lawn devices is acceptable? It's not healthy. And when one yard crew ends, then another begins. Just take a look at all the landscaping trucks on the road. Sure, we all have a right to manage our private property, but what happened to my right to peacefully enjoy mine?
LEN GREEN
Severe Noise
East Hampton Village
June 28, 2024
To the Editor,
Here's the real problem with the brewery.
Having read Mr. Aaron's letter to The Star (May 30, "Goose and Gander") and, as someone living in our village who is as worried about noise pollution upending our neighborhood peaceful existence as Mr. Aaron is, I came to the conclusion that the most pervasive of all threats for a peaceful environment -- special-event permits -- was not mentioned in his informative letter.
Special-event permits are the biggest loophole that can enable any restaurant to become an establishment having loud, invasive entertainment even though a restaurant is not permitted to have any form of music or even dancing by village code.
Since the site is next to a peaceful residential neighborhood, if the brewery restaurant plans are approved by the design review board, such approval should include that the establishment would not be issued any special-event permits for any form of outside entertainment. The Hedges is a good example of the harm these permits can cause.
Noise and music can be heard a quarter of a mile away at the Exxon gas station on Montauk Highway when numerous "tent" events are held at the Hedges throughout the year. The noise pollution is so severe that it can sound as if a wedding is taking place inside neighbors' homes!
Based on the uniqueness of this project's location, this serious infringement on our village should be addressed as a public hearing before the D.R.B. makes a ruling.
ALICIA SULLIVAN
Unkempt Grounds
Springs
July 1, 2024
To the Editor:
It's a shame that the historic Green River Cemetery in Springs is being neglected and not maintained once again this summer, as in most summers past.
After years of neglect by the former caretaker, the New York State Association of Cemeteries was asked to step in. They suggested that the Town of East Hampton take over, since the town maintains most of the cemeteries in East Hampton. Unfortunately, after only a few years, the town now seems to have difficulty mowing and maintaining Green River Cemetery on a regular basis during the summer months. It often has grass that exceeds 12 inches and is infested with lone star ticks. (All other East Hampton cemeteries are mowed and maintained on a regular basis. Why not Green River Cemetery?)
Being a historic cemetery, one would think that the town would take better care of its landmarks. (Especially with the numerous walking tours that pass through each summer.) It's exhausting notifying the town supervisor’s office each time I come home with ticks attached to my legs from the unkempt grounds at Green River Cemetery. Wading through tall grass, seeing broken fence sections and sinking graves, and driving over large potholes is very disrespectful to the families who have loved ones buried there and shows a huge lack of concern by the East Hampton Town Board.
Disappointed plot owner,
T. YOUNG
Elephant Hunt
North Haven
July 4, 2024
Dear Editor,
Re: ban on elephant hunting. As someone who helped alert the media to the elephant slaughter last decade (getting Vanity Fair to realize the tremendous "Agony and Ivory" article by Alex Shoumatoff), why does Tanzania allow major human rights violations against the Maasai in favor of the royal family of Dubai, so they can hunt animals for fun and trophy hunting, which is murder? Native peoples do not hunt for pleasure and are not endangering any species. It is a crime and an aberration which should be banned outright, before the elephant goes extinct and, with it, our civilization. As Romain Gary wrote, "On an entirely manmade planet there can be no room for man either. All that will be left of us is robots."
CYRIL CHRISTO
Lord Almighty
Amagansett
July 8, 2024
Dear Mr. Rattray,
According to a recent poll conducted by AP-NORC, over 70 percent of all voters believe that President Biden should not seek a second term. From that same poll, looking at voters ages 18 to 44, more than 80 percent say Biden should not run for re-election. It might be useful to keep another fact in mind: Roughly 4 percent of the U.S. population is over the age of 80 -– a very small number indeed relative to the 60-plus percentage of adults between 18 and 64.
I did not watch the debate between President Biden and former President Trump for reasons made abundantly clear in the following day's news reports. Apparently, it was an embarrassment. Subsequent to that debacle, Biden has insisted that he will not bow to pressure and end his candidacy. Only "the Lord Almighty" could drive him from the race. (Days earlier he told a gathering of Democratic governors that he needed more sleep and less work at night -– maybe not the reassurance you're looking for from the president of the United States.)
I remind our president that one of the principles under which our country was founded is the separation of church and state. So I think it would be a good idea to keep the Lord Almighty out of this important discussion and return to the ideal of democracy. That we the people have a say (vote) in who will be our elected leaders. At present, our opinions, our beliefs, are not being considered. And it's unclear how that situation will be remedied.
Though I haven't been contacted by the White House for my thoughts on how President Biden might withdraw from the race with dignity and resolve, I've written a brief speech for him, and herewith release any claim of copyright or ownership of words or ideas expressed herein. The phrases "malarkey" and "folks" will not be found in this script:
"My fellow Americans, you've heard me say, with determination and passion in my heart, that I would not, under any circumstances, bow out of the race for the presidency in the coming election. I've even said that only the Lord Almighty could make me drop out! But in the heat of that moment I was failing to consider another voice that the Lord Almighty gave to this beautiful democracy of ours: the voice of the American people. It is your voice that bestowed on me the highest office in our land. And for that honor I will be grateful for as long as I live.
"But with each passing hour now, more and more of you are calling for me to step aside and allow the next generation to take the reins. It's fair to say that personal pride and belief in myself, and my capabilities, may have prevented me from listening, even hearing you.
"It's a painful decision for someone who has served for so long and committed his entire life to protecting and advancing the ideals memorialized in our Declaration of Independence and in our Constitution. But I make the decision today with clarity and resolve; as of this moment, I'm suspending my candidacy. Those American ideals, and the goals set forth in our Democratic platform, are far more important to our country than my personal political position. And so is your voice in the matter.
"I may stammer a little, but let me be clear: I will give my heartfelt, full-throated support for our Democratic candidate for president. And I ask the Lord Almighty to guide and protect that individual, and to bless the United States of America."
To the future,
LYLE GREENFIELD
An Old Dirt Road
Walking on a dirt road
With breezes and sunlight
With the birds singing
Everything's just right.
You can have your Porsches
And smartphones
All your asphalt and concrete
Give me an old dirt road
That's the real treat.
BILL CRAIN
Heart and Soul
Noyac
July 3, 2024
Dear Editor,
We've long been fans of The East Hampton Star –- well, since moving out here from Brooklyn in 2012. Though we are not East Hampton residents (we live in Noyac), Tom and I buy the paper weekly. Perhaps it's our frequent trips to Montauk (we do our laundry there -– any excuse to come out to Montauk –- since we have no washer-dryer). But we really fell in love with the town at the commemoration of the 26 victims of Sandy Hook in nearby Connecticut where we watched local children (it was December) put decorations on the 26 trees that had been donated for that purpose. The heart and soul of East Hampton were very much in evidence that day. Similarly, when I read "Nothing Held Back" by Cebra Graves, my heart seemed to grow stronger reading his eloquent, heartfelt tribute to the woman who married his father and gifted him with the role model of a lifetime. The love that rose off the page as I read his "Guestwords" column confirmed mine for your paper, East Hampton, and humankind in general. Thank you, Cebra.
Peace and love,
HEIDI RAIN OLESZCZUK
Special Kudos
East Hampton
July 1, 2024
Dear Mr. Rattray:
Another Hampton Pride Parade and Hampton Pride Celebration at LongHouse have been successfully accomplished and enjoyed under the leadership of Tom House -- the president of Hampton Pride -- and the great volunteers he recruits. Tom created both of these events three years ago and has continued to make them bigger and better every year. The Town of East Hampton recognized him a few weeks ago with a proclamation acknowledging his invaluable leadership in making these events happen. Tom has also recruited many steadfast volunteers and allies to make these events so successful. The parade could not have happened without those volunteers. However, special kudos goes again to the village police force for their invaluable help and cooperation in making the parade safe and joyous. The primary liaison with the village police was Sgt. Eben Ball, who could not have been more helpful and understanding, as were his colleagues.
The Hampton Pride event at LongHouse on Sunday was a great celebration despite the thunderstorms and wind. As usual, LongHouse’s director, Carrie Barratt, and its operations manager, Jason Amis, could not have been more welcoming and helpful. Tom also created an advisory group consisting of several LongHouse trustees -- Michael Jones, Peter Olsen, and Dianne Benson -- as well as a local supporter, David Fink. Despite the intermittent showers, LongHouse was still the magical gardens that amazed everyone. Most of the wine, soft drinks, and delicious snack bites were donated by local businesses. One special person deserves a special thank-you, and that is Lauren Allegro, a manager at Stop and Shop, who made sure we got all the donated ice that was needed on a hot, rainy day. The disc jockey, Tony Lee, did a fantastic job of keeping the vibe up but not drowning out all the conversations. In addition, Nora Conlon also performed and entertained the crowd with special songs. It was a wonderful community event.
Thank you to Tom and all the others who made both events so enjoyable.
LOUIS BRADBURY
Ticketing Spree
Montauk
July 1, 2024
To the Editor,
From 6 to 8 p.m. on June 29, there was a wonderful gathering of generous East Enders at Mulford Farm on James Lane in the Village of East Hampton. It was a celebration of the accomplishments of the Eleanor Whitman Early Childhood Center, a local charitable organization devoted to the education of preschoolers whose parents are full-time workers in the Hamptons community. I estimate hundreds of people attended the event and thousands of dollars were raised for the organization.
Inside the Mulford barn, local community service leaders were introduced and applauded by the generous crowd. There were only two speakers, and one of them was Jerry Larsen, the mayor of the Village of East Hampton. Mr. Larsen made generous remarks, and the audience rewarded him with generous applause. But while His Honor was speaking inside the Mulford Farm barn, his uniformed agents were outside on James Lane issuing $80 parking tickets to vehicles owned by the overflow crowd listening to the mayor.
Driving in from Montauk, I had parked my car on James Lane at the end of a line of cars belonging to others attending the event. If there was a "No Parking" sign where I parked, I confess I missed it. Was it legal to park there? I dunno.
I left soon after the mayor's speech to find I, too, had been ticketed.
During the two-hour event, I estimate, the village may have issued scores (hundreds? thousands?) of dollars' worth of parking tickets to those listening to the mayor saying nice things about this wonderful charitable organization.
Again, I confess I do not know whether I, or the others in the line of cars parked on James Lane in front of and behind me a block from the event, were illegally parked or not, but I have given the mayor his pound of flesh and paid the 80 bucks because it's not worth the hassle to drive to and from East Hampton and attend a hearing in the justice court to determine whether I legally parked in that line of parked cars or not.
I cannot vote in village elections, and aside from this letter, my only other response to what I consider a lack of municipal reasonableness will be henceforth to avoid the restaurants and shops in the Village of East Hampton and try to persuade family, friends, and neighbors to do likewise.
I do have a suggestion for Mr. Larsen: When the tally of parking fines is finally tolled, I urge him to consider writing a personal check to the order the Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center in the amount the village budget has been enriched by his ticketing spree. It's tax deductible, Jerry.
MARTIN LONDON
The Powerful
East Hampton
July 2, 2024
Dear David,
One takeaway from the Supreme Court’s recent term is that, once again, the powerful and affluent will be further shielded from criminal prosecution while the poor and weak will be subject to more.
Sincerely,
SPENCER L. SCHNEIDER
Stoically Silent
Springs
July 5, 2024
To the Editor,
The longstanding practice of town board members, regardless of party, to remain silent after a resident's public comment at the board’s "Work Sessions" is undemocratic and disrespectful and that practice should cease.
Public participation is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. When residents take the initiative to voice their concerns and ideas, they deserve acknowledgement from their elected officials. Silence only stifles dialogue, disenfranchises community residents, and is a disservice to the advancement of public agendas.
While I understand that responding to public comments can be challenging and may not be seen as politically advantageous to the public official, it is, however, an important and necessary part of a functioning democracy. Residents deserve some form of acknowledgment from their elected officials, even if it doesn't entail agreement. A brief but clear response from the town board member(s) would suffice.
In no other situation would someone in a position of authority simply remain stoically silent while someone under their authority expresses an important opinion. This applies to parents, teachers, doctors, and, of course, elected officials. The East Hampton Town Board shouldn't be the one exception.
For effective governing, transparency is key. Residents need to understand the board's position or thoughts on issues. Open communication fosters a more-informed public and strengthens the board's connection to the community. Silence, conversely, breeds frustration, hinders accountability, and insulates the town board from dissenting ideas.
FRANK RIINA
Common Dysfunction
Amagansett
July 2, 2024
To the Editor,
Joe Biden's presidency and campaign, and the national Democrats, all share one common element of dysfunction with the East Hampton Town Democratic Committee: the lack of a bench. The state party for some years spent so much of its energy trying to defeat young, charismatic Democrats in primaries, it barely seemed to have money or energy left to fight Republicans. Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer hung on to their jobs decades longer than they should have. The party is very grudging about showcasing young, intelligent people and giving them independence and authority, so that when the moment comes, they have some visibility and momentum in a high-visibility campaign. Vice President Kamala Harris all but disappeared from view after the 2020 election, so if she steps in now to replace her shaky boss, she will be starting with almost as little recognition as any other candidate.
The town party is similarly geriatric and has been, at its most passive, a deeply unfriendly environment for young people, and, at its most active, as aggressive at putting them down as the state party. In the "Night of the Long Knives" it conducted some years ago, the local party eliminated some promising young folks from the town committee; they were smart, independent, ethical, and impatient about standing in line forever in a non-meritocracy, all the qualities the Democrats, national and local, most need to survive and most detest.
This is not the only contributing factor to a possible and very fateful loss in November -- but it is an important one.
For democracy in East Hampton and America,
JONATHAN WALLACE
Civil Conversation
East Hampton
July 8, 2024
Dear David,
The July 7 Stand With Israel Rally in Herrick Park is an example of a group attempting to present a narrow, closed viewpoint on a complicated, nuanced war. It misses the opportunity to set an example in our community that would include a public, civil conversation with other groups who may differ but who are still our neighbors, co-workers, and friends open to an honest dialogue. The greatest obstacle to the creation of a just society is not the apathy or indifference of citizens, but the conviction of some individuals that their views are the only legitimate ones. Whether that was the plan of the rally, it was the result.
With that in mind, let me offer an invitation to the leadership of the Jewish and Muslim East Hampton community to appear together on the LTV cable television show I co-host with Barbara Layton, titled "Real Talk -- People Who Are Making a Difference in the Hamptons." Each leader would have equal time to make their points and answer questions other panelists might have on their views.
With our common humanity in mind, let me formally invite Rabbi Leibel Baumgarten of Chabad of the Hamptons, Rabbi Josh Franklin of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons, Iman Ahmed Essam Ibrahim of the Islamic Center of the Hamptons, Mitchell Agoos, the event chairman of the Jewish Collective, and Kathryn Levy of East End for Ceasefire to our one-hour show. Because of the importance of the topic, we're willing to devote another half-hour or full hour for a second show if needed.
Nicholas Kristof of The New York Times remarked in a June 1 Op-Ed piece that the moral tangle in Gaza has brought about a toxic public debate dominated by people with passionate views on both sides. Most people are torn and unsure how to process the tragedy that is unfolding and that shows how exquisitely complex real-world ethics are, as much as we may yearn for black-and-white morality tales. We agree and will be contacting the leaders to set up a date for a show -- they're more than welcome to contact me, as well, at [email protected].
We look forward to a "Real Talk" with them all!
Very best,
JIM VRETTOS
Payoff, Anyone?
East Hampton
July 4, 2024
Dear David,
Now that we've all had the chance to digest our Cornflakes or B.E.C.s, let's pour another cup of joe and discuss. Was the debate the be-all, end-all, end of times? No, drama queens in the back row -- or you in the front with upside-down flag heading the Trump brigade full speed ahead. It was one night, and, let's face it, who can have a debate with a narcissist? Nobody. Trust me, I've known more than a few quite well. Even an orator who can trade witty barbs with the best of them would get tongue-tied in that poison energy field.
So before you run and change horses midstream, settle down. Whether President Joe decides or is advised not to continue, we support him or his empty chair and hat. You get it? We will not, cannot, would not ever vote for that red-hatted wannabe dictator, mad king, boyfriend of Putin. He's a dangerous, spoiled man-child who knows nothing of a people's democracy, has no respect or gratefulness for our veterans or even God. He didn't lose his religion, he has no soul. He thinks he is God.
You're buying his act? Are you stoned? You realize only a hypocrite votes out Roe v. Wade when he has paid for more abortions than Hugh Hefner? Don't act shocked; you know that's a fair assumption. Heck, it was cheaper than sending them to college or bankrolling them for life, right? He's a use 'em and toss 'em fella. Women, how can you possibly vote for him? Boggles the mind.
And the absent mail-order bride here illegally (payoff, anyone?) aside, the whole clan is a disgrace to our country. At least Neanderthals were appropriate to their era.
You relate to him? How? His allergy to knowledge and history? The fact that he doesn't read books? His disregard for women? His absent relationship with family and parents when [they were] alive? His racism? His lying, cheating, stealing (the 2016 votes), his blatant ignorance? All this attracts you? Wow. Or do you actually imagine he'll do something for you tax-wise, health-wise, border-wise? Maybe he will help your life? He's not your friend, daddy, or therapist. Talk about magical thinking.
Maybe you too have hidden sex tapes like the ones Russia has on him and he's in too deep now (no pun intended) and owes the P-man big time. Russia owns him. That'll be grand for us. Wake up. Or stay asleep while, God forbid, this piece of garbage slips in again. I'm glad my father is gone. He made that mistake once. He's turning in his grave at the unsavory antics and disregard for our servicemen, alone.
Remember -- or did you ever see in a movie? -- the family gathered around the radio for the president's address to the people, in times of strife and war, comforting them, assuring them? Speaking like a grown-up and they were so proud he was leading the country. Not juicing them up like a World Wrestling Federation rally to attack our capital. That is "Twilight Zone" material.
Hey, if that sits right with you, in the words of a former-barfly-turned-born-again-MAGA, "I'll pray for your soul. Somebody must."
Not dreaming,
NANCI LAGARENNE
Putin, Kim, Maduro
North Haven
July 1, 2024
Dear David,
This Fourth of July, we need to consider maintaining the independence that the day is meant to celebrate.
Debates can be a useful form of argument if both parties understand and cooperate with the format. Unfortunately, modern political discourse has become harangues, lies, and vicious bullying.
President Biden made a serious mistake asking for the "debate" that we witnessed Thursday. The personality of Donald John Trump is incapable of debate as we know and understand it. Biden and his coaches should have understood that.
It became Trump's platform to lie, bait, and ridicule the president, shouting out lies to avoid difficult answers. It was a display of truly ugly conduct versus stumbling, disappointing behavior. Biden took all the MAGA bait and really screwed up.
Although MAGA people seem to think this shows good presidential strength and vitality, that is also a lie. Trump has been a bully and liar as far back as his military-school days. His business dealings and social history have always been based upon deception, lies, cheating, and threatening behavior. Such a person is incapable of debate. Democracy is his target.
It is no surprise that Trump is a fanboy of Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong Un, Nicolas Maduro, Xi Jinping, and even Adolf Hitler, among others. He sees those guys as strong, rich, and successful in getting what they want. We shouldn't forget who these people are, and what they're trying to do. Democracy is the target of all of them!
Democracy is a thoughtful process, best supported by cooperation, truth, and honesty. We saw none of that Thursday.
Biden needs to continue his effective good work as our president, and he needs to ignore this insane criminal opponent and just talk about his own accomplishments and his good plans to keep improving current important issues.
The truth will win, unless we give honor and respect to the destroyer of all common sense. We shall vote for the safety of our precious democracy.
Wishing you a pleasant holiday,
ANTHONY CORON
Snape V. Fudge
Amagansett
June 30, 2024
To the Editor,
As we celebrate our independence this week, let us not forget where we apparently don’t have rights. That would be on Bay View Avenue, Where a road became blocked 2,167 days ago. Again, Kathee Burke-Gonzalez, our illustrious supervisor, reminded us of how the town has the integrity of its laws, residents' rights, and protecting our coastline. Like the "Hunger Games," [Amagansett Election] District 12 is here to work and pay taxes only. All the while we see renters at four homes that aren’t on your rental registry.
After last week, we will get the matchup of Severus Snape and Cornelius Fudge for our congressional seat. Money will be flowing in faster than a goblin at Gringotts can count.
Westeros has been abuzz even in the silence of a week off. The kingdom begins to show its wear as those who say they will not attend another meeting are front and center. What of note in plain view? An alleged harem that just may potentially emerge from the shadows. Scripture and interpretations have been found not to be a strong suit of the hand nor council.
Turtle signs have paintball residue on them, and unfortunately I’ve passed as many expired as those looking for adventure. A shark-fin design has graced the wetlands. No knocks accompanied by "Land Shark!" yet. One mistaken beach whale sighting. The one-year anniversary of Cranberry Hole Bridge being shut down after being reopened. Napeague Harbor still neglected and not being dredged correctly. To the best nation on God’s green Earth, be well and have a happy, safe Independence Day. Somewhere, someone woke up with 10 fingers for the last time. Fireworks spectacular.
Still here,
JOE KARPINSKI
Unforgivable
Montauk
July 7, 2024
Dear David,
Something most of us saw a long time ago is now finally coming to light. The truth about Joe’s cognitive state is being discussed everywhere. The media has covered for the president for the past three and a half years. The democrats have hidden behind blindly and said nothing, except bow to him.
The Bidens have tried every excuse there is; they have blamed everyone for Joe’s failures.
Jill Biden should be arrested for elder abuse, as her want for power is sickening. Putting her husband on such display is unforgivable. Her hand-clapping and, "Oh Joe, you did so good, you answered every question," her treating him worse than a child for her own glory -- it just doesn’t sit right.
Interesting article in the paper. The Bidens accepted the nomination. Once won, training would begin to teach Kamala Harris all the tricks of the trade, totally groom her for the next election. The Bidens are reneging on their deal by staying in the next race for the nomination for the presidency.
Because of Joe Biden's present state of mind, question who is really running our country. Joe is a danger, and now Hunter is sitting in on West Wing meetings and yelling orders. Where’s that privilege coming from?
America needs our prayers more than ever.
In God and country,
BEA DERRICO