Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner spearheaded the “Take Back 25” litter cleanup event along Route 25 in Coram, Middle Island, Gordon Heights, and Ridge on April 7. This event brought together community members and leaders for a significant environmental initiative. The event was organized in collaboration with the Town of Brookhaven, the Coram Civic Association, and Longwood Central Schools.
The cleanup drew a diverse group of participants including county, state, and federal officials, along with local volunteers such as Boy Scouts from Troop 560 in Coram. Among the prominent figures participating were Bob Martinez, executive assistant for intergovernmental relations to Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine; New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo; , Longwood Schools Superintendent Lance Lohman; Penny Cordano Hines, Chief of Staff to New York State Senator Dean Murray; Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa; and Victoria Molloy, chief of staff to Councilman Michael Loguercio.
The event not only focused on cleaning up litter but also served as a platform for fostering community spirit and collaboration across different levels of government and the public. The youngest volunteer, referred to affectionately as “TJ,” was also highlighted, symbolizing the wide range of community members who contributed to the effort.