When then-Gov. David Paterson was threatening to close some state parks last year to reduce the budget shortfall, a user group, Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists, agreed to take over maintenance of Trail View State Park.

That effort to protect the 8-mile linear park that runs through Woodbury, Plainview and Bethpage has just gotten a boost from two grants from retailers, CLIMB president Michael Vitti said.

REI, the national sporting goods chain that is opening a store in Carle Place Friday, donated $10,000 and Brands Cycle & Fitness in Wantagh donated $2,000. The money will be used for tools and supplies, Vitti said.

The group held its first maintenance day at the park April 30 and picked up 30 cubic yards of trash, Vitti said.

The next cleanup is scheduled for June 5. Those interested in volunteering can get more information at the group's website.

Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, of Bay Shore, was killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His mother has made it her mission to aid active-duty service members, veterans, first responders and Gold Star families. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports. Credit: Randee Daddona; Photo credit: Cathy Heighter

'His sacrifice made a difference': Gold Star mother honors son's memory Army Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, 22, of Bay Shore, was the first serviceman from Long Island killed in the Iraq War.

Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, of Bay Shore, was killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His mother has made it her mission to aid active-duty service members, veterans, first responders and Gold Star families. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports. Credit: Randee Daddona; Photo credit: Cathy Heighter

'His sacrifice made a difference': Gold Star mother honors son's memory Army Pfc. Raheen Tyson Heighter, 22, of Bay Shore, was the first serviceman from Long Island killed in the Iraq War.

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