Jets Coach Honors LIer's Touchdown + Masseuse Charges

Happy Saturday, neighbors! Let's get you all caught up to start today off on an informed note.

Mepham's Sofia LaSpina got a shoutout from the New York Jets on her historic accomplishment. A late Merrick police officer was remembered as a 9/11 hero who led youth sports as a devoted volunteer. And a Nassau man is accused of illegally working as a masseuse and inappropriately touching clients.

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First, today's weather:

Clear throughout the day. High: 75, low: 62.

Here are the top stories today in Merrick:

1. Patch looks at a Merrick resident who was remembered not only as a 9/11 hero but a youth sports leader. A ceremony at the lacrosse 9/11 memorial at Farmingdale State College was held on Sept. 18 and Matthew A. Perlungher's name was added. (Patch)
2. Patch also reports that Jets head coach Robert Saleh wore a Mepham High shirt at his Friday press conference to honor Sofia LaSpina. The wide receiver became the first-ever female to score a touchdown, which happened in a Long Island high school game. (Patch)
3. Alex Costello has the details on a masseuse charged with inappropriate touching of clients and practicing without a license. Sut-Ho Leung (also known as "Mike"), 60, of New Hyde Park, was arraigned on 14 counts of unauthorized practice of a profession, two counts of forcible touching and two counts of third-degree sexual abuse. He worked at O Spa in Franklin Square. (Patch)

Merrick Notebook

• A Merrick mother and son are raising funds for a rare and potentially serious genetic disorder, Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD.) Those with the disorder, like Nicholas Phillips, will eventually need a kidney transplant. He is involved with the PKD Foundation, along with his mom Erin, and they've raised $18,000 for them so far. (LI Herald)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Saturday! I'll see you soon. If you're liking these newsletters, consider bringing some more friends and neighbors along for the ride. You can send them this link to subscribe.

— Jackie

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Merrick Daily? I'm all ears. You can reach me at Merrick@Patch.com.