Friends, family and local officials gathered at Soper Park in Northport Village to celebrate the dedication of new equipment at the playground to honor Michael Budelis.
He grew up in the neighborhood where the park is located but died at 11 in 1972. His mother, Maxine DeSeta, became the first chairperson of Northport’s resident parks committee, which raised funding to create Soper Park years ago. The funds were recently donated to the village for the installation of new equipment to enhance the park in memory and celebration of her son’s life.
“This wonderful public park is a symbol of the generous and everlasting love that Maxine has for her son,” Legislator William R. Spencer said. “It is a fitting tribute that will continue to bring joy to the children and families in the community for years to come.”
The ceremony last week, organized by Northport Village Trustee Mercy Smith, was attended by DeSeta’s family, neighbors and elected officials including; State Sen. Jim Gaughran, Assemblyman Andrew Raia, Supervisor Chad Lupinacci, Councilwoman Joan Cergol and Northport Village Mayor Damon McMullen.