Warren,
I grew up in New Hyde Park (from age 2 through 24), and, after getting married, lived in North Babylon and Huntington. We moved to the Buffalo area in late 1986 and lived there for 14 years. The Carlin clan (the 2 of us became 4 during our Buffalo years) moved back to Long Island (Kings Park) in 2000 and have been here ever since. If it had been up to me (which, being married, it really wasn't), I'd've stayed in the Buffalo area. I loved the more relaxed pace of life, fewer crowds and friendlier vibe. I recall those years very fondly. The Mrs. wanted to return to Long Island (she was also born here and her folks, since passed, were here, and, since both were not in the best of health, she wanted to be closer to them) and so we returned and have been here on LI ever since. I envy you being up-state, as much of it is beautiful country and much more relaxed than 'downstate'. I spent a long weekend camping at Letchworth State Park last summer, and it made me miss the upstate lifestyle even more.
Tom, I'm more than happy to help out if this looks like it will actually happen. When I lived in Buffalo, I helped some friends put together comic book, toy and collectible shows (I'm an insurance attorney).
Bob
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Bob Carlin
rfcarlin@hotmail.com
RKCC #622