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Suffolk County’s Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan moves forward, encourages physical activity in safe, green spaces.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine today announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Green Key Parking Permit Program with Local Libraries, or Green Key PPP. The program is part of Suffolk County’s three-part plan to engage residents in physical activity, increase access to public green spaces, and educate residents to improve the overall health of the Suffolk County.

To encourage physical activity in safe green spaces, County Executive Romaine last year authorized county health officials and county parks officials to collaborate with the Suffolk Cooperative Library System to offer residents one-time Green Key parking permits through their local libraries.

Suffolk County libraries interested in participating in the pilot program will be offered the opportunity to purchase a pack of twenty-five parking permits for $125.

Beginning in April 2025, Library patrons will have the opportunity to purchase, for $5, a one-time parking pass to visit one of 10 Suffolk County parks on a date of their choice.

“In Suffolk County, we are blessed with an extensive network of beautiful parks where residents and visitors can engage in myriad activities,” said Executive Romaine. “We are inviting residents to take advantage of this offer to experience one of our Suffolk County parks one time for a generously discounted fee.”

Library patrons who take advantage of the Suffolk County Library Parking Permit Pilot Program will enjoy a first-hand experience of a county park for a day and may decide that purchasing a Parks Green Key Card is a worthwhile investment. The Green Key Card entitles holders access to all Suffolk County parks and reduced fees for activities.

“This pilot program is intended to get people moving to reduce their risk serious chronic illnesses,” said Dr. Gregson Pigott, Suffolk County Health Commissioner. “We hope to engage all communities to visit their local parks and participate in activities they may not know are available to them as Suffolk County residents.”

“The Parks department is happy to partner with the Suffolk County Health department and local libraries with the new Parking Permit Pilot Program. The County has amazing natural resources, and our hope is that residents get out and explore what they have right in their own backyard” said Commissioner Giannott, “Our goal is for residents to discover places they may not have ventured to in the past and enjoy Suffolk County for all it has to offer.”

“Libraries are all about connecting people to resources that benefit them. We look forward to partnering with Suffolk County to assist local residents with exercising their minds at our County’s amazing libraries and their bodies are our County’s beautiful parks” said Suffolk Cooperative Library System Director Kevin Verbesey.

As part of the pilot program and to better understand the communities we serve, Suffolk County officials will collect data, report, and formulate recommendations for the future.

Part two of Suffolk County’s Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan is the health department’s Nature Walk Program that offers walking and learning events featuring health and environmental specialists. Part three of The Plan involves changes to infrastructure in the latter part of 2025 & 2026.

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Scene from the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War in Hauppauge. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
Veteran Ed German sporting his full uniform at the gathering of Vietnam veterans. Photo by Caroline O’Callaghan
Scene from the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War in Hauppauge. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
A Vietnam vet at the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War in Hauppauge. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
Scene from the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War in Hauppauge. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
Veterans from the LI State Veterans home arrive for the gathering. Photo by Caroline O’Callaghan
Jack Gozdziewski. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan

By Caroline O’Callaghan

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R)  and other Suffolk County representatives spoke on the lawn in front of the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge on March 29 to a crowd of around 400 people to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. Most in attendance were some of Suffolk’s estimated 21,000 Vietnam War veterans – the largest gathering of Vietnam veterans in Suffolk’s history. The event hosted veterans and their families to food vendors and live performers. 

There’s a temporary museum that’s open to the public until April 4 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War ending. The exhibition houses preserved relics such as vehicles. “We are here on this beautiful day to say, ‘Welcome home,’” Congressman Nick LaLota (R-NY1) began the commemoration. 

LaLota was flanked by members of VFW Post 6249 (Rocky Point) who contributed to the “colors ceremony” of the event, in which military members raise and lower the national flag as a display of patriotism before the start of a ceremony. 

On March 29, 1973 the U.S. military assistance command over Vietnam was officially disestablished. In 2012, former President Barack Obama (D) proclaimed the date as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Five years later, President Donald Trump (R) declared the holiday as a date of annual observance. 

Many veterans felt a sense of gratitude for the gathering, not only because of the unprecedented warm weather. “Out of respect for all veterans, I’m thankful that we live in country that honors veterans,” said Jack Gozdziewski, proudly sporting a smile and his army-green cap. 

Romaine hosted the gathering to offer the veterans “a little bit of closure” on behalf of Suffolk County and the country. Romaine continued, “It [the Vietnam War] was probably one of the most memorable events of their [the veterans] lives…” 

For many of the veterans, the gathering was well overdue. Upon initially returning home from the war, many veterans were not acknowledged for their bravery in combat due to the geopolitical climate that had perpetuated a harsh rhetoric toward the U.S. troops. Kevin Cleary, a marine who served from 1967-1968, experienced backlash at his college for being a veteran. Cleary recalled there being “real enmity for veterans” at universities in the post-Vietnam era. “We [veterans] got blamed for starting the war,” said Cleary. 

“They never felt like they were welcomed when they arrived home from the war, and this ceremony is to reinforce that. To thank them for their service, and welcome them home once again,” said Romaine. 

There were those in attendance who were vocal about feelings of being forgotten. John Weldon Sr., a Purple Heart awarded combat veteran, verified that the gathering was long-delayed. “It’s about time they [U.S. government officials] did something for us. It took them 50 years.” said Weldon Sr. 

Commitments to the veterans were made by the representatives who spoke at the ceremony. Representatives didn’t neglect to acknowledge the 1,576 U.S. Vietnam veterans who remain Missing In Action (MIA) to this day. They promised to uphold their legacy. This was after a prevalent statement made by Chad Lennon (R-Rocky Point), who promised  to oversee hat “all veterans that served in combat will be welcomed home correctly” from now on in Suffolk County. 

Those who gathered this past Saturday spoke of a unified front in spite of facing postwar adversity for decades. Veterans emphasized the importance of comradery and representation. Ed German is a radio personality, author and former U.S. marine who served in the war from 1967-1970. German explains, “it’s just good to be around a bunch of guys who all have one thing in common and it’s that we served in Vietnam.” 

“Every chance I get to put on the ‘full-metal jacket’ –that’s what I call my uniform since it has all my medals on it – I do it because I’m here to represent what we did,” German continued. “And I don’t want it to be erased from history.”

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Alex R., who was demonstrating in support of President Donald Trump, talking to an anti-DOGE protestor. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz
A scene from the rally outside the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on 3/29/25. Photo by Steven Zaitz

By Steven Zaitz

Separated by a 10-yard, police-barricaded neutral zone, supporters of President Donald Trump (R) and Tesla CEO Elon Musk clashed with protesters at the Tesla dealership in Nesconset on Saturday, March 29.

It was the third time this month that marchers descended upon this Suffolk County dealership, located where the Smithtown Bypass meets Middle Country Road. However, in this instance, supporters of the Trump administration and the Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency rallied in full force against the group that opposes both Trump’s and DOGE’s actions. 

The group supportive of Musk and Trump started to form at about 10:45 a.m. along the sidewalk on the south side of the Tesla lot. Gigantic American and Trump-themed flags, some as large as a small swimming pool, were tied to utility poles and monster trucks, needing a crew of four or five to erect each of them. 

Approximately 100 Trump/Musk supporters gathered within 30 minutes, but on the north end, nearer to Middle Country Road, Trump/Musk opposers numbered fewer than 10 in the beginning.

Also present were 15 to 20 Suffolk County police officers who monitored both groups, while also assisting and directing Tesla employees and customers with their automotive concerns.

A little before noon, members of both groups gravitated to the metal barricades that separated them and soon words zinged across the police barricades in both directions. The Trump/Musk supporters, many of whom were from Nassau County, passed around a megaphone to ask the other side why they are against “efficiency” in government, while Trump/Musk detractors decried the “clumsy” and “heartless” methods DOGE has used to fire thousands of government workers across the country. 

As this verbal sparring went on and the Trump/Musk opposition side grew in numbers to roughly 50, still a significant reduction from the hundreds at the March 1 rally that was part of the same movement, one supporter of Trump/Musk made her way under the yellow police tape to the opposite side, desiring to peacefully discuss her group’s causes. 

Identifying herself only as Alex R., she rotated around and spoke to anyone who would listen, engaging with liberal-minded locals, young and old, in a spirited but mostly peaceful way.

“I start and end with respect,” said Alex, who moved from New York City to Suffolk County a few years ago. “I don’t think being an extremist on either side is helpful in getting anyone’s point across. I’m very sociable, I’m very friendly, I’m not gonna walk up and say, you’re a clown because that’s not gonna open the conversation in a positive way.”

Alex, who is in her 40s, was the exception on Saturday, as the police made sure members were encamped properly throughout the day. The Trump/Musk group, organized largely by the America First Warehouse Facebook group, swelled to about 150 at its peak. Armed with the only megaphone on either side, they crammed up against the barricade hurling epithets that were not only political in nature but also personally derogatory with regard to the physical appearance and other insults that were in opposition to the statements made by Alex R. 

Trump/Musk opposers had signs denouncing the pair as backers of Russia and Nazism. A few in the crowd wore face stickers that read “F Elon and the FELON.”

As a part of Tesla Takedown day, this protest was one of over 200 that took place in the U.S. and 500 internationally on Saturday in places such as Miami, Washington, D.C., Seattle, London, Paris and Berlin.

Back in Nesconset, there was a moment when both sides ceased hostilities, but very briefly. The Trump/Musk supporters’ public address system played 1970s hit and Trump anthem “YMCA” by the Village People, and at that moment, the two sides, perhaps not realizing it, danced and formed the letters of the song title among themselves, taking a break in shouting at each other.

When the song was over, they resumed shouting until the rally broke up a few hours into an unseasonably warm afternoon. As we approach the spring and summer months and tensions persist, similar rallies — with representation from both sides — are likely to become more frequent, not just in Suffolk County, but around the world.

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Legislator Steve Englebright, right, honored Donie Stapleton as Suffolk County Legislative District 5’s Irish American of Distinction on March 26. Photo from Suffolk County Legislature

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) named Daniel “Donie” Stapleton, a Port Jefferson resident and owner of Napper Tandy’s Irish Pub, as Irish American of Distinction for the County’s Fifth Legislative District.

All 18 Suffolk County legislators recognized an Irish American from their district at an event held at the H. Lee Dennison Building on Tuesday, March 26. County Executive Ed Romaine (R) also attended to name Legislator Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) as his Irish American of Distinction.

Honorees were chosen based on their contributions to improving their communities and their work in encouraging fellow Irish Americans to do the same.

Stapleton had five hundred dollars and a dream when he left the village of Horse and Jockey in County Tipperary, Ireland, for New York at 22. Determined to make something of himself, he worked three jobs. That determination led to him owning his first pub, Lily Flanagan’s, at age 26, and eventually to owning Napper Tandy’s Irish Pub, which currently has three locations in Suffolk County and one in Colorado, and other restaurants, including The Smithtown House in Smithtown and The Salt Creek Steakhouse also in Colorado.

Stapleton regularly holds fundraisers for people in crisis and funds scholarships and community initiatives. Napper Tandy’s was the first pub on Long Island to hold the annual St. Baldrick’s events. To date, 54 events with more than 10,000 participants have raised over $6.5 million to help fight childhood cancer. When Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina in 2024, Stapleton stepped up, soliciting donations to send a 26-foot truck filled with food and supplies to the Appalachian Relief Coalition. He also raises money for other causes, such as the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

The business owner is also known for guiding and helping employees, inspiring them to open their own pubs/restaurants around Long Island.

“Donie Stapleton is living proof that with hard work and dedication the American Dream still exists in our country,” Englebright said. “He has improved his life as well as the lives of countless people who he will never meet.”

In the past, Stapleton also organized the Long Island Irish Feis at Flowerfield, which featured Irish music, crafts and food to celebrate Irish American culture. The event proceeds were donated to Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.

 

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Supervisor Dan Panico has announced that the Town of Brookhaven will hold its fifth Annual Health and Wellness Fair at Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville on Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Fair will feature representatives from the health and wellness industries who will provide valuable information and plenty of free giveaways. The Health and Wellness Fair sponsor, JVC Broadcasting, will be on-site performing interviews to be aired on 103.9 Long Island News Radio and promoting the event on its five Long Island radio stations.

Health & Wellness businesses who are interested in participating can visit www.BrookhavenNY.Gov/Health to complete a vendor application. If you have any questions, please call the Department of General Services at 631-451-6331

Request to be a vendor.

View Flyer

 

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Legislator Bontempi, on right, with Irish American Person of Distinction honoree MaryAnne Barry Granato, at the Irish American Heritage Celebration at the H. Lee Dennison Building. Photo courtesy of Leg. Bontempi's office

Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R – 18th L.D.) recognized MaryAnne Barry Granato as the 18th Legislative District’s Irish American Person of Distinction, during the Irish American Heritage Day Celebration at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge on March 26.

A lifelong resident of Huntington, with roots in County Cork, Ireland, MaryAnne has been deeply involved in numerous community organizations, including the Townwide Fund, Huntington Hibernians, Huntington Chamber of Commerce, St. Patrick’s Church, and the Girl Scouts of America. For the past 23 years, she has played a pivotal role in organizing the Huntington Hibernians Grand Marshal Ball, ensuring the event’s continued success through her dedication and meticulous planning. 

MaryAnne recently retired after 17 years of distinguished service with the New York State Senate, followed by four years of dedicated work for the Town of Huntington. She now enjoys spending time with her family, including her four children and seven grandchildren, and relaxing at Suffolk County’s beautiful beaches and parks.

“MaryAnne’s dedication to the Huntington community and beyond has left a lasting impact on countless individuals, and it is my privilege to honor her today. For many years, MaryAnne has been instrumental in the success of the annual Huntington Hibernians Grand Marshal Ball, she is not only a true Irish American but also an outstanding person and a dear friend,” stated Legislator Bontempi.

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Pixabay photo

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine invites residents to participate in Suffolk County’s Spring 2025 Nature Walk Series. Residents may attend one or more of the Suffolk County’s “Exploring Health and Conservation” walks to explore the connection between health and our natural environment.

The Suffolk County Nature Walk Series is part of Suffolk County’s Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan to promote physical activity, increase access to public green spaces, and induce residents to improve their overall health.

Health professionals will speak about the importance of regular physical activity and environmental specialists will discuss the importance of preserving our environment and its relationship to the health of everyone in the community.

“We encourage all our residents and visitors to take care of their health by getting out, increasing their physical activity, and explore our beautiful open spaces here in Suffolk County,” said Executive Romaine.

“Walking in nature is a joy in itself, but the added bonus is that participants will have the opportunity to ask health questions, bird watch, and learn about the connection between our environment and our health,” said Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Gregson Pigott.

The walks will take place on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon at the following times and locations. There will be no cost for the walks, entrance fees, or parking fees. Participants are advised to mention the walk at the entrance.

March 29, 2025: Lakeland County Park, 176 Johnson Ave., Islandia
Lakeland County Park is a 70 acre, fully accessible park facility was designed for the disabled and their families. It includes a nature trail-boardwalk over the head-waters of the Connetquot River, affording unique views of wetlands, vegetation, waterfowl and wildlife. Public restroom, leashed dogs allowed, picnic tables.

May 17, 2025: Belmont Lake State Park, 625 Belmont Ave., Southern State Parkway, Exit 38, North Babylon

Belmont Lake State Park is a 463-acre day-use park, featuring boating and picnicking facilities in addition to playing fields for popular sports. Two modern children’s playgrounds are also available. Pedestrian paths, bike paths, leashed dogs allowed.

May 31, 2025: Cordwood Landing County Park, Cedar Drive, Miller Place

Cordwood County Park is 70-acre park offering extensive hiking trails and access to the Long Island Sound for hikers, fishermen, sea combers and sunbathers. Leashed dogs allowed.

Date to be announced: Cranberry Bog Nature Preserve, 3675-2815 Lake Ave., Riverhead

Cranberry Bog Nature Preserve is a 165-acre preserve offers numerous hiking trails to view various plant life, birds species, reptiles and other local wildlife. Leashed dogs allowed.

To register, call the Suffolk County Department of Health Services at 631-854-0378 OR email [email protected]

To prepare for the Nature Walk:

  • Wear light-colored clothing, long pants and sleeves.
  • Consider using insect repellent.
  • Bring water.
  • Wear sunscreen with an SPF30 or higher, a brimmed hat and comfortable, supportive shoes (no flip flops).

While walking:

  • Stay in the center of the path.
  • Conduct frequent tick checks.

The Suffolk County Nature Walk Series is offered in collaboration with the Suffolk County Department of Health’s Office of Minority Health, Suffolk County Parks, New York State Parks, the Long Island Sound Study, Sea Grant, Alzheimer’s Association, SEPA Mujer,  Dare to Dream Community Outreach, Belmont Lake Civic Association, Inc., Fidelis Care, and the Suffolk County Alumni Chapter of Delta, Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

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A view of the Port Jefferson Country Club

The Village of Port Jefferson has entered into a new partnership with Lessing’s Hospitality Group to provide exclusive food, beverage, and catering operations at the Port Jefferson Country Club, according to a press release. The Village Board of Trustees voted unanimously on March 17th to approve the license agreement (an assignment of the existing lease), marking a significant step forward in enhancing hospitality services for residents, members, and visitors alike.

Known for delivering personalized service and high-caliber events, Lessing’s will provide custom menus, full-service event support, and tailored food and beverage experiences at the Port Jefferson Country Club. They will begin operating “The Turn,” with food and beverage service officially launching on opening day of golf at PJCC, Saturday, March 29, 2025. Effective immediately, Lessing’s will assume responsibility for all catering operations at the Country Club, including member events, weddings, social, and corporate functions.

“We are so proud to welcome Lessing’s Hospitality Group to Port Jefferson Country Club,” said Mayor Lauren Sheprow. “With their longstanding reputation for excellence in golf course food and beverage management, catering, and member events, we are confident this partnership will bring a new standard of service to Port Jefferson Country Club and elevate the overall guest experience for our community.”

Established in 1908, the Port Jefferson Country Club is a distinguished fixture on Long Island’s North Shore. The golf course was designed by renowned architect Alfred H. Tull and spans 145 acres as a 6,800-yard, par-72 championship course. The 170+ acre Country Club was acquired from the estate of the late Norman K. Winston by the Inc. Village of Port Jefferson for $2.9 million in 1978 via a resident referendum. Today, the Port Jefferson Country Club remains one of the premier golf and event destinations in the region, offering an 18-hole membership-accessible championship course with sweeping views of the Long Island Sound.

Michael Lessing, CEO of Lessing’s Hospitality Group, added, “It is an honor to partner with the Village of Port Jefferson and oversee hospitality at such a distinguished venue. We look forward to serving the community with exceptional dining experiences and memorable events, both at The Turn and throughout the Country Club.”

Lessing’s Hospitality Group brings over 135 years of hospitality management experience and operates at over 100 locations, including 10 golf and country clubs. Their portfolio features renowned venues such as The Heritage Club at Bethpage State Park and Stonebridge Golf Links & Country Club.

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Photo courtesy of LI Ducks
Suffolk County Ballpark receives new field, mound, bullpens and outfield wall

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Long Island Ducks team officials have announced the completion of a new turf field installation at Fairfield Properties Ballpark, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip, home of the Atlantic League ball club. The new FieldTurf playing surface, installed by local supplier LandTek, will begin to be utilized this April for the Ducks 25th Anniversary Season on Long Island.

“This Capital Improvement is part of the ongoing effort by the County of Suffolk to update County buildings while keeping Fairfield Properties Ballpark operating at the highest professional level in partnership with the Long Island Ducks,” said Romaine. “The new turf field will improve efficiency greatly, save millions of gallons of water per year, and be more environmentally friendly, eliminating the need for fertilizer and chemicals on the playing surface in future seasons.”

The field renovation included full replacement of the entire playing surface, pitching mound, bullpens and padded outfield wall. With the conversion to an artificial surface, the Ducks are now the eighth team in the 10-team Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, a Partner League of Major League Baseball, to convert to turf.

“Keeping our ballpark atop the list of favored destinations for Major League players looking to continue their careers is important,” said Ducks President/Chief Business Officer Michael Pfaff. “This project, along with our commitment to keeping ticket prices affordable and parking free, allow us to continue to deliver on our promise of providing the most fun, fan friendly and affordable entertainment experience on Long Island for many years to come.”

The Ducks open the 2025 regular season, presented by Catholic Health, on Friday, April 25, against the Lancaster Stormers. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m., with the Fairfield Properties Ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). Tickets for all Ducks games are now available and can be purchased by visiting the ballpark box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX or going online to LIDucks.com.

The Long Island Ducks are entering their 25th Anniversary season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip, N.Y. They are the all-time leader in wins and attendance in Atlantic League history, have led all MLB Partner Leagues in total attendance for four consecutive seasons, and have sold out a record 713 games all-time. For further information, visit LIDucks.com or call 631-940-DUCK (3825).

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

Celebrating its third decade, the Atlantic League is Major League Baseball’s first Professional Partner League, a player gateway to the Major Leagues, and a leader in baseball innovation. Over its 26-year history, the ALPB has sent over 1,400 players to MLB organizations while drawing over 47 million fans to its 10 family-friendly ballparks that stretch from New York to North Carolina. Please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.

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Photo from USPS

The U.S. Postal Service dedicated its latest Freshwater Fishing Lures stamps on March 13 at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, MO.. The stamps showcase five popular lure designs through striking close-up photographs. Each has a unique history and has played a significant role in the evolution of fishing as a sport. From the earliest handmade wooden lures to swimbaits made of modern materials, there are countless freshwater lures available, each designed to meet the specific needs of the angler.

“With these stamps, the Postal Service celebrates the beauty and ingenuity behind some of America’s most successful lures,” said John DiPeri, USPS Western Region vice president. “As our design team would tell you, fitting subjects in such a tiny frame is no small feat. However, with their miniature size and design flourishes, fishing lures make ideal stamp subjects. Fish find each of these designs irresistible … and we think you will too.”

DiPeri was joined by representatives from the Johnny Morris Foundation, Bass Pro Shops and the fishing and conservation communities.

“We are truly honored to host this special stamp dedication at Wonders of Wildlife, celebrating the timeless tradition of fishing and the artistry behind these iconic lures,” said Misty Mitchell, director of conservation education at the Johnny Morris Foundation. “This event with the USPS is a wonderful way to showcase the legacy of angling to enthusiasts of all ages.”

“Fishing lures are more than just tools — they represent tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to the great outdoors,” said Lee Beasley, campus director at Bass Pro Shops. “We’re thrilled to share this moment with anglers and outdoor enthusiasts across the country.”

The lures “symbolize craftsmanship and sportsmanship — values we strive to instill in the next generation of anglers,” said JP Sell, director of the National Youth Fishing Association.

“I am so excited that the most participated in sport in America is getting a stamp,” said fishing guide Mike Webb, owner of Webb’s Guide Service.

Crankbaits, or plugs, are popular among anglers because they are relatively easy to use. They attract a variety of fish, including bass, walleye and pike. Their unique swimming action is generated by a plastic lip and curved body, which make the lures dive and wiggle just by reeling them in. Anglers tend to run these lures along the bottom, bouncing them off rocks, logs or other submerged structures.

An in-line spinner lure is made to mimic the movement of a swimming baitfish, attracting predator fish with a spinning blade and a weighted body that create vibration in the water. They often have tails dressed with feathers, animal hair or rubber skirting to attract bass, trout, pike and other species in shallow streams, deeper rivers and lakes.

Spoon lures have been around since the 1800s and are named for their concave shape. It is believed that a blacksmith in Vermont created the first spoon lure by sawing off the handle of a spoon and attaching a hook. Spoons have remained popular because their unique movement and glimmer under water are so effective at catching fish, especially bass, pike and trout.

Topwater lures are extremely popular and are designed to be fished on the surface of the water: Wakebaits use metal or plastic wings to create a commotion like the wake of a boat as they skim the surface. A popper has a concave face that creates a popping sound when it is pulled across the water.

Given the many choices open to anglers, there is truly a fishing lure for any occasion. Whether in lakes, streams or rivers, an angler can catch just about any fish if they have the right tools.

Every freshwater fishing lure has a unique history, and each has played a significant role in the evolution of fishing as a sport. From the earliest handmade wooden lures to swimbaits made of modern materials, there are countless freshwater lures available, each designed to meet the specific needs of the angler.

Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS, designed the stamps using original photographs by Sarah Cramer Shields.

The Freshwater Fishing Lures stamps come in panes of 20. As Forever stamps, they will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1 ounce price. News of the stamps are being shared with the hashtag #FishingLuresStamps.

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, First Day of Issue Ceremonies and stamp inspired products can be found at StampsForever.com.

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