Woman Honored For Fighting Back Against Helicopter Noise

MATTITUCK, NY — For years, Teresa McCaskie has been a champion for those on the North Fork crying out against helicopter and aircraft noise that's shattered residents' bucolic quality of life.

McCaskie, who chairs the Southold Town Helicopter Noise Steering Committee, has worked for years to curb the escalating tide of aircraft traffic flying over the North Fork and East End — and on Thursday, she'll be honored for her dedication by the Mattituck-Laurel Civic Association, which has named McCaskie its Citizen of the Year.

McCaskie will be feted on Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Veterans Beach Community Room in Mattituck, MLCA chair Mary Eisenstein said.

"Teresa McCaskie was selected by the MLCA as this years Citizen of The Year because of her tireless work with the helicopter noise project," Eisenstein said. "She epitomizes what being 'civic minded' is all about. She has worked to preserve our quality of life. We are excited that she was selected. We are looking forward to honoring her."

Added Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell, "Teresa is one of the hardest working people I have every met. Her determination to end helicopter traffic benefits us all. We owe her our gratitude and the honor is well deserved."

Southold Town Councilman Bob Ghosio, town board liaison to the helicopter noise steering committee, also spoke highly of McCaskie: "Teresa's dedication to representing Southold in its fight against aircraft noise, that affects us all, has been nothing short of spectacular. The amount of time she volunteers to her community is truly appreciated and she is certainly deserving of recognition from her neighbors. On behalf of the town board, I congratulate her on her award from the Mattituck-Laurel Civic Association."

Of the award, McCaskie said, "I am so very honored and humbled to be recognized by such an amazing organization that cares so passionately about our beautiful community." She thanked the many who have helped her throughout the long journey. "I am so very grateful."

But the fight against helicopter noise is far from over: In November, Russell announced plans to take action against the Federal Aviation Administration after the FAA ruled to extend the North Shore helicopter route four years in July.

Russell announced the filing of a formal complaint with the Federal Transportation Commission; Southold Town contends that the FAA's action is in violation of federal law and executive order.

Photo courtesy of Teresa McCaskie.