Friends Come Together To Help Local Fire Victims Rebuild Lives

In times of trouble, North Fork residents turn out in force to care for their own.

To that end, a fundraiser, "Revved Up for the Sweeneys,"  a benefit car and bike show, will be held Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Southold American Legion to benefit Mike and Nancy Sweeney, who recently lost their home in a Laurel fire last month.

Sweeney, a Mattituck firefighter, and his wife found their home on fire early on the morning of July 20 morning and escaped safely.

According to Southold Town police, Sweeney, of Bray Avenue in Laurel, reported that his home was on fire at 3:54 a.m. 

Officials believe the home might have caught fire due to an attic fan. 

The Mattituck Fire Department, along with Jamesport and Cutchogue Fire Departments, responded and knocked down the blaze. The Suffolk County Arson squad also responded to the scene.

Sweeney's wife was transported by Cutchogue Ambulance to Eastern Long Island Hospital for evaluation.

Two firefighters were transported to local hospitals for treatment for heat exhaustion. 

Sunday's fundraiser will feature music by Yankee Rebel, a southern rock band, as well as raffles, a 50/50, and door prizes. All proceeds will go directly to help the Sweeneys.

A $20 show vehicle entry fee will be charged; spectators will be by donation.

Donations and checks can also be made payable to Michael and Nancy Sweeney and mailed to The Sweeney Fund, PO Box 141, Cutchogue, NY, 11935.