Sex Offenders

 There are convicted sex offenders living and working in our community. It is a good idea that all parents know where their children are at all times and to be aware of the people your children may come in contact with or talk to. These predators have clever ways to lure children into bad or uncomfortable situations. Parents should also be aware of the internet sites your children visit or the people they chat with on the internet. We have links here to help safeguard your children. These sites can advise you where the most dangerous offenders live and work.  

Sex Offender Websites

Megan's Law	www.parentsformeganslaw.com
New York State Dept. of Justice	www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us/nsor
National Alert Registry	www.nationalalertregistry.com
Registered Offenders List	www.registeredoffenderslistorg
Child Safe Network	www.childsafenetwork.org
Center for Missing & Exploited Children	www.missingkids.com
Child Abuse Unit	www.childabuseunit.com

AUGUST 2007

Dear members,
    We at CCAF hope you are enjoying your summer.  Although we do not meet for the months of July and August, our work, on your behalf never ends.  CCAF is a member driven organization, available to work 24/7 for the good of our community.  We continue to attend village, town and county meetings as representatives of our community.  The quality of life in Farmingdale is something we have become accustomed to; and seek to maintain.
     When driving through the streets of Farmingdale please be aware that we are always on the lookout for graffiti.  We are always prepared to follow up and make appropriate phone calls to the Nassau County Police Department, the Town of Oyster Bay, the Town of Babylon and the Village of Farmingdale to see that this blight on our community is quickly and efficiently removed.
While we unable to see all graffiti we do work hard to see it that it is all removed.  We urge you to contact CCAF or your local authorities if you see any of this vandalism so that it can be dealt with.  You can contact CCAF through our website or at
516-249-2106.
     Non-maintenance of commercial businesses and shopping centers is another area that can have a negative impact on our community and has drawn the attention of the CCAF organization.
There are specific Town codes addressing the handling of garbage.  Dumpsters must be fenced in to prevent garbage from blowing about and presenting an unpleasant image of overflowing and poorly maintained garbage.  These businesses must also have a chain link fence with permanent slats or a stockade fence if they abut residential property or are across from a residential property.  CCAF has worked diligently to make sure that businesses in the community maintain their property, keep our community clean and neat and remove any visible blight from our community.  Again, we encourage you to contact us if you see any commercial properties which do not appear to follow town codes.
Roll down security gates on the exterior of businesses are illegal in the Town of Oyster Bay.  CCAF has been instrumental in having several of these gates removed.  In addition to encouraging graffiti, they are a safety issue for police and fire officials limiting there view of the interior if called for an emergency or suspicious activity. Illegal housing in our community is also a concern for many. If you are aware of any potential violations in housing codes please contact CCAF.
     CCAF is also striving to keep our community safe.  Many sidewalks, street lights and commercial parking lots have been repaired and/or replaced due to the work of CCAF. Improving traffic safety throughout Farmingdale is another important issue to CCAF. Through the years we have promoted many changes to help improve the safe and efficient flow of traffic in Farmingdale.  We were instrumental in having the protected left hand turn signals installed at Main Street and Rt. 109 and at Main Street and Conklin.  Our letters and phone calls were also instrumental in forcing plans to rework the dangerous intersection at Main Street and Marion.  The current blinking red light, just south of Fallwood Parkway, has been responsible for several fender benders and is a danger to both pedestrian and drivers.  Together with the East Farmingdale Civic Association
we were able to modify the traffic entering and exiting the King Kullen shopping center on Route 109 to provide a safer traffic pattern. In addition the speed limit on Rt.109 has been reduced entering Farmingdale for the safety of both pedestrians and drivers in the area.

     The new Town law regulating and limiting unsightly commercial vehicles on private property is another issue that CCAF worked diligently on with the Town and the Village. Walking out your front door or looking out a window our residents don’t want to be looking at large commercial vehicles. The new law limits such vehicles to 8 feet of height and 20 feet in length. If these limits are exceeded they must be removed when notified by the Town or Village.
    We have also addressed the maintenance of our local sumps, irrigation and drainage areas. Together with our Town, Village and County officials we have effected improvements in the fencing, sidewalks, dredging, general care of the vegetation and more efficient removal of garbage and debris in these areas. Once again, please pick up the phone if you see anything in these areas that is unsightly, dangerous or not being maintained.

  We have also been actively working to see that the Viceroy extension of the Massapequa preserve between the High School and Woodward Parkway elementary school.  We are supporting a land swap deal between the State and the County to make this a area a permanent part of the Massapequa Preserve and give it the protection it deserves, keeping it free from encroachment, vandalism and loiterers. The other half of the neighboring bike path which runs along the Bethpage State Parkway would also benefit from being part of the Greenbelt Trail and part of Bethpage State Park.  As such it would fall under the jurisdiction of the Parks Dept. instead of the Dept. of Transportation and benefit from better maintenance and general upkeep and protection.  These areas would then be treated as a preserve, keeping the natural beauty and hiking trails safe and not treated as simply a high way right of way.  We have also been working with the Nassau County Police and our County Legislators in keeping a better police presence in these areas. If you witness any loitering or partying or any inappropriate activities in these wooded areas of our community please notify the local POP officers of your local precinct and also inform CCAF of these activities, including the time and date. 
      Several years back CCAF held the first gang awareness seminar in our community.  The issue of gangs is one that we are continually monitoring and taking a proactive stance on with a goal to limit or hopefully eliminate local crime and vandalism associated with a gang presence in a community.  Due to our efforts and the efforts of the Farmingdale school district, our policy of awareness and education has been instrumental in a decline in local gang activity. We must remain vigilant and continue to work with local authorities to insure our children do not fall prey to these gangs.
     Six years ago, when CCAF was just beginning two major issues faced this community.  The cleanup of the Liberty site and the proposal to build a Stop & Shop supermarket on that property were questions that impacted both residents and businesses in the community.  CCAF was at the forefront in achieving what is designated as a SL-3 cleanup which will enable recreational use of the western portion of the site.  It was an uphill battle, one that many believed we would never win.  However together with the Town of Oyster Bay and through the acquisition of Sea Fund monies the Town now owns 21 acres of the 31 acre site to be used to expand Allen Park. Public scoping sessions will begin in the next several months so that we may have a say in precisely how that land will be developed. The cleanup will be winding down toward the end of the year and finally after many years the Liberty site will be contaminant-free. After voting three times on the issue, our membership has overwhelming indicated that they do not support the application of Stop & Shop to construct a supermarket on the eastern portion of the property.  As the Town continues to weigh the application, CCAF continues to support use of this property in a way that benefits the community more than a supermarket. We seek something with better tax revenues and jobs to help support our community.
Some suggestions have been a community center and/or senior or next generation housing to be constructed on that acreage as a better alternative to a 9 acre supermarket in the middle of a residential area.
    CCAF is also active in promoting the quality of our school district; while remaining mindful of the tax burden on our residents.  Program offerings, security and traffic patterns are some of the important issues that CCAF has been vocal about and continues to encourage community input on these and many other issue affecting our school children.  Many traffic safety issues have been addressed at the schools. A two way street adjacent to Woodward Parkway was converted to a one way street for safety reasons.  Many changes proposed and/or supported by CCAF include safer/better drop off points at several schools as well as installation of pedestrian crosswalks, safer traffic patterns-particularly at the middle school and improvements in both student and teacher parking conditions.  We continue to strive for the safest conditions for our children as they commute to classes.  We are also in constant contact with the Nassau County Police Dept., encouraging enforcement of local speed limits and adherence to all stop signs, traffic lights and other similar traffic control devices.
   Activity at Republic Airport is a concern for residents and is another area that CCAF continues to monitor.  The exterior appearance of the property, expansion projects and the size and frequency of large jet traffic are some of the current issues involving the airport that CCAF continues to monitor in cooperation with other local civic groups.  You may also log on to the CCAF website and obtain information on how file complaints regarding early morning flights, late night flights or excessive noise at the airport.

     CCAF has a vast knowledge of this community.  Our board members are involved in many aspects of this community.  Among our members are school board members, village trustees, members of the town council, local POP officers, county legislators and members that sit on several boards throughout the community.  CCAF and its members belong to several organizations such as Friends of the Massapequa Preserve, Sustainable Long Island, Vision Long Island, the 20/20 Vision Committee for the Town of Oyster Bay, the Restoration Advisory Board for the Gruman property in Bethpage, the Nassau County Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, high school, middle school and elementary school PTA’s, the Open Space Committee for Nassau County Parks and a member of the Farmingdale Community Summit. Some of our guest speakers at meetings have included the EPA, Farmingdale school district, Farmingdale water district, meet the candidates for the village, Farmingdale Village Mayor and trustees, members of the Oyster Bay Town Board, Stop & Shop representatives, Nassau County Legislators, Project Cope, the facilities advisory committee for the Farmingdale school district president of Friends of the Massapeaqua Preserve Richard Scharry as well as school board members and candidates. We have presented gang awareness seminars, auto safety seminars, identity theft/mail fraud seminars and annual school budget presentations for our membership. Our local precinct POP officers frequently attend and update the membership on local issues.
     As you can see there are many, many issues affecting the quality of life in our community. It is a never ending job to remain vigilant and informed in all these areas.  We need the help of our membership and the community.  Please bring a friend to a meeting. Renew your membership if you haven’t done so. Keep your eyes and ears open. Together we can keep this a wonderful, vibrant community and a desirable place to raise our families.

We need YOU to help us achieve these goals.

 Remember-One voice is heard but many are listened to !

About Long Island, Long Island Index Reports – 2007 Report and Key Findings Highlights from 2007 Index ECONOMY
Long Island’s economy continues to grow but shows signs of weakness.
· Annual average wages are growing at a slower rate than in the U.S. and are now only 5% higher than U.S. average.
· The top 10% of households account for 31% of the total household income on Long Island and the bottom 60% of households account for 32% of the total household income.
· Long Island is experiencing the greatest growth in the lowest paying jobs and a decline in the highest paying jobs.
· Long Island firms receive almost no venture capital or federal R&D funds.
Small firms dominate.
· 88% of Long Island firms have fewer than 30 employees and many new firms with a small number of employees are being created.
OUR COMMUNITIES
Most Long Island downtown business centers have low vacancy rates (average is 7.3%).
Long Island continues to diversify, age and lose young adults as housing affordability worsens.
· 21% of the population reports having a very difficult time paying rent or mortgage – up from 7% in 2003.
· Only 17% of housing units on Long Island are rental – a much lower percentage than other neighboring areas.
· More Long Islanders need food stamps.
HEALTH
Long Island has high quality health care, but not all Long Islanders have access.
· Long Islanders have very different health risks depending on economic factors and the community where they live.
· 43% of inpatient health care is paid by Medicare.
EDUCATION
Overall Long Island students excel but marked disparities persist in areas of concentrated poverty.
· Long Island students far surpass statewide results in completing Regent’s Diploma requirements (86% for Long Island vs. 69% for New York State) and in high school graduation rates (90% for Long Island vs. 80% for New York State).
· Rates for graduates receiving New York State Regent’s Diplomas vary across the Island: 67% of students in high-poverty schools located in high-need districts receive Regent’s diplomas compared to 83% high-poverty schools located in average-need districts.
· The gap between low poverty and high poverty schools is declining for the 4th Grade English Language Arts test and is increasing for the 8th Grade Mathematics test.
· There are schools in areas of concentrated poverty where the number of children receiving free lunch exceeds 50%.
· Students with Limited English Proficiency are growing markedly in high-poverty schools.
OUR ENVIRONMENT
Between 2000 and 2005 Long Island preserved land at a rate of 2,200 acres per year.
Air quality is considered “good” two out of every three days.
GOVERNANCE
Bond ratings remain high for both Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
Property taxes as a share of personal income were 18% higher than the state average.

Sex Offenders
There are convicted sex offenders living and working in our community. It is a good idea that all parents know where their children are at all times and to be aware of the people your children may come in contact with or talk to. These predators have clever ways to lure children into bad or uncomfortable situations. Parents should also be aware of the internet sites your children visit or the people they chat with on the internet. We have links here to help safeguard your children. These sites can advise you where the most dangerous offenders live and work.

Sex Offenders in Farmingdale!
Anyone who uses this information to injure, harass, or commit a criminal act against any person may be subject to criminal prosecution. For more information addresses and photo's please use the links below, we encourage you to use BOTH registries links.
.
From the website of New York State Sex Offender Registry "http://criminaljustice.state.ny.us/nsor/index.htm"
Offender Name
BONAGURO, MATTHEW M, CARROLL, SEAN, CARROLL, SEAN P, DEJESUS, PATRICK
DEJESUS, RICHARD, ESTRADA, MARIO, FERMAINTS, ANDRE R, KALER, KIMI
MICHAELS, JAY, RIDGELL, ARNOLD, RODRIGUEZ, AJ, SANCHEZ, MARIO
YOUNG, JERRY, YOUNG, JERRY B

From the website of Parents For Megans Law
"http://www.parentsformeganslaw.org/"
Offender Name
WILLIAM MACHUCA, HARRY A ATHENAS, MATTHEW M BONAGURO
SEAN P CARROLL, RICHARD DEJESUS, ANDRE R FERMAINTS
ADRIAN HUNKELE, VINCENT J PERSICO, ARNOLD RIDGELL
MARIO SANCHEZ, ERRY B YOUNG

KEEP IN MIND
A recent survey found that nearly 25% of convicted sex offenders are failing to comply with state registration requirements. Be advised that addresses frequently change.
You Should Know...
Most Childhood Sexual Abuse Occurs With Someone A Child Has An Established & Trusting Relationship With
Convicted Sex Offenders Tell Us..."Parents are so naive-they’re worried about strangers and should be worried about their brother-in-law. They just don’t realize how devious we can be." "Know that we will use any way we can to get to children".
"The best offense is a great defense. Understand the dynamics of childhood sexual abuse and you and your children will be safer."

Sex Offender Websites
Megan's Law  "http://www.parentsformeganslaw.com/"
New York State Dept. of Justice  "http://www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us/nsor"
National Alert Registry  "http://www.nationalalertregistry.com/"
Registered Offenders List  "http://www.registeredoffenderslist.org/"
Child Safe Network  "http://www.childsafenetwork.org/"
Center for Missing & Exploited Children  "http://www.missingkids.com/"
Child Abuse Unit  "http://www.childabuseunit.com/"

Some Farmingdale History

The first settler in the area of Farmingdale was Thomas Powell, who arrived in 1687. On October 18, 1695, he purchased a 15 square mile tract of land from three Native American tribes. This is known as the Bethpage Purchase and includes what is now Farmingdale, as well as Bethpage, Melville, North Massapequa, Old Bethpage, Plainedge, and Plainview. One of two houses he built in the area (1700) still stands on Merritts Road in Farmingdale.

The community began growing in earnest when the Long Island Rail Road arrived in 1841. The area was called Hardscrabble, but the name was changed to Farmingdale in 1845. The village was incorporated in 1904. In 1912 the State Agricultural and Technical school was established. Later, Farmingdale became a locus for the aircraft industry, notably Republic Aviation Company.

Farmingdale also has associated unincorporated areas outside the village limits - South Farmingdale (also in Nassau County within the Town of Oyster Bay) and East Farmingdale (in Suffolk County within the Town of Babylon).

The current mayor is Mr. George J. Graf.

Guard facility to be built in Farmingdale

An $86-million facility that would help mobilize New York National Guard and Reserve forces on Long Island to respond to nor'easters, floods and even a terrorist attack is slated to be built in Farmingdale.
When completed in 2010, the Farmingdale Armed Forces Reserve Center would be one of the largest facilities for National Guard and joint reserve units in the U.S., said Rep. Steve Israel (D-Huntington), who was to announce the project this morning.
"This is a very big deal for New York, not just economically but in terms of local security," said Israel, who secured the federal funding. "It's a consolidation of more than 1,200 uniformed personnel right in the middle of our community, with an abundance of mission-critical equipment and four different divisions of the reserves."
Several state and emergency planning officials said the training and operations center would boost readiness for the New York Guard at a time when it is under severe strain after five years of deploying soldiers and equipment to Iraq and Afghanistan. A recent Guard report found that only 35 percent of its authorized Humvees and cargo trucks, for example, are available in New York.
"This helps us recruit new members, ensure they get the proper training and also aids in getting the proper geographic distribution of our assets," said New York State's Deputy Secretary for Public Safety Michael Balboni.
A national trend to consolidate reserve divisions in a single location was initially motivated by economic considerations as part of national military base realignment, Israel said. But recent experience has indicated that putting Army, Navy, Marine and Air Reserve units in a single facility also boosts planning and communications, he said.
"The difficult challenge we might have is with a Category 3 Hurricane bearing down on Long Island," Israel said. "We learned from Katrina that too many decisions were made in too many places. In contrast, this would be a central place for mobilization, so instead of going vertically up four separate chains of command, these guys can actually talk with one another in one place."
Col. Michael Canders, commander of a joint task force responsible for providing military support to Nassau and Suffolk Counties if activated by the governor in an emergency, said a state-of-the-art facility to position troops and equipment would be "a boon to Long Island."
Canders, who also commands the 106th Rescue Wing of the Air National Guard in Westhampton, noted that after a nor'easter was forecast in mid-April, the New York Guard called up 1,000 troops to help with cleanup, among other contingencies.
"We were worrying about where to billet them, where to feed them," he said, noting that the units were stationed in Huntington, Freeport, Bay Shore, Jamaica and the Park Avenue armory in Manhattan.
But with a facility close to the Nassau-Suffolk border, he said, if a storm was forecast for eastern Long Island, "we could actually move west into Nassau County, stand by with a force and then after the storm passed, deploy back to eastern Suffolk. This gives us a place to rally forces and equipment."
Col. Geoff Slack, operations officer for the 42nd Infantry Division of the Army National Guard, agreed that response on the Island would be greatly enhanced. "Especially for the Island, which often suffers high water and wind damage in storms, having a big National Guard presence is a plus," he said.

Employee nabbed for theft by Town's GPS
Suffolk County Police arrested a 42-year-old Babylon Town employee May 8, charging him with the theft of town property. Information about the theft was recorded on the town's GPS, which was then forwarded toSuffolk police for an investigation.
Arrested and charged with theft was Robert Jaworowski of 1480 Hawkins Blvd., Copiague. Town officials said that employees of the Department of Public Works discovered that pipes were missing from their inventory and also witnessed Jaworowski loading the pipes on to the Town truck to which he was assigned. Using GPS technology, the Town was able to identify where the stolen property was being delivered. A scrap metal yard was identified as the place of continual trips by the Town employee. The Town then informed the Suffolk County Police Department and the police conducted an investigation at the scrap yard and was able to recover the alleged stolen property. The pipes were allegedly stolen using a town truck and delivered to the scrap yard on town time.
Vanessa Baird Streeter, a town spokesman said the town is pursuing termination of the employee pursuant to New York State Civil Law.
This is the third incident where the Town of Babylon's GPS technology has assisted the Town in apprehending suspects and stolen property. GPS has proven to be an excellent tool for efficiency, productivity and recovery of stolen property.

Plane Crash In Farmingdale  05/07/07
A private plane carrying only a pilot and one passenger crashed while attempting to take off from Republic Airport in Farmingdale early Saturday. Authorities believe the crash was caused by mechanical problems.
Vincent Pacifico and Joe Perna, both from Massapequa, were heading north at approximately 9 a.m. when the single engine plane suffered what appears to be mechanical failure according to Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) reports.
The East Farmingdale Fire Department and an airport emergency response team arrived on the scene and removed both men from the wreck.
“The FAA will be doing an investigation,” says Mike Geiger, a spokesperson for Republic Airport. “Until then it’s premature to speculate.”
Pacifico, 52, and Perna, 46, were taken to Nassau Community Medical Hospital and both are stable

Panel Pushes Raise For Nassau Politicians
 05/04/2007
To compensate for Suffolk County officials making so much money, an advisory committee recommended in a report issued yesterday that underpaid Nassau officials should have their salaries increased by tens of thousands of dollars.
The Nassau County Blue Ribbon Panel for Elected Officials' Salaries are attempting to compensate legislators for the lack of increases since 1996, when the county legislature was first established. Currently the annual salary is $39,500 and the panel recommends an increase to $70,300. This would still be over $13,000 less than Suffolk Legislators.
Under the recommendation Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi, who currently receives $109,394, would receive $174,612. This would be slightly more than Suffolk Executive Steve Levy.
A bi-partisan group, headed by Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury), appointed the panel after being accused of hiding pay raises for legislators in this year’s budget. “This was not a proposal, it was just a report,” says Jacobs. “We have to make a decision if we can live with it, alter it or do nothing with it.”
Jacobs went on to say that any change would have to be a group decision. “I’m not going to be out there carrying any torches,” says Jacobs.
Minority Leader Peter Schmitt, (R-12th district), agrees with a pay increase. “I believe elected officials deserve a raise,” says Schmitt.
Schmitt, in a recent news release, estimated the deficit rising to $164 million in the near future. “The taxpayers should not have to pay more just because the Democrats have a looming deficit for next year,” said Schmitt.
When asked for comment about Nassau official salary increase however, he said “Every government is going through a huge deficit.” There is no scheduled date or meeting to discuss the report.


Residents reminded about hours of operation for leaf blowers
Few things are more disruptive to the tranquility of an early morning or a lovely spring or summer evening than the distinctive "vroom" of a leaf blower. Oyster Bay Town Clerk Steve Labriola reminds residents that the Town of Oyster Bay has a law restricting the hours of operation for leaf blowers.
"In July 1990, the Town Board adopted a comprehensive Noise Ordinance to address the many concerns about noise pollution caused by everything from radios and home audio systems to loudspeakers and signaling devices such as horns and sirens," Town Clerk Labriola stated. "The proliferation of leaf blowers, and a significant number of complaints made to the Town about the their use at inappropriate times, mainly very early in the morning and late into the evening hours, prompted the Town Board to amend the ordinance in 1996 with specific hours of operation for this power tool."
Town Clerk Labriola went on to say that under the Town's Noise Ordinance, the hours of operation for leaf blowers are restricted to between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. weekdays and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekends and national holidays. He noted that these hours apply to landscapers, as well as individual homeowners.
The Town Clerk said to report violations, residents should contact their local police precinct. He added that the ordinance does not apply to incorporated villages
Public Library vote:

Residents voted to pass the 2007-08 Farmingdale Public Library budget.
The budget vote tally was 301 yes votes to 135 no votes.
Current Trustee Tom Arangio ran unopposed for another five-year term and received 367 votes.
The 2007-08 budget of $3,364,670, represents a $76,760, or 2.3 percent, increase over the previous year.

Farmingdale School District Moves Forward With Capital Projects
April 2007
The Farmingdale School District is committed to maintaining a safe environment for students, staff and all who visit district facilities. To accomplish this objective, the district continually updates its capital projects plan and looks to implement necessary capital projects with as little impact as possible on taxpayers. Over the past several years, the district has been able to move forward with replacing original boiler/burner equipment throughout the district through its annual operating budgets, negating the need for a separate bond referendum. In developing the proposed budget for the 2007-2008 school year, the Board of Education has budgeted funds necessary to complete several on-going projects in this area. In addition, the board of education is proposing leveraging EXCEL Aid and building aid from the state to fund replacement of remaining original boiler equipment in the district and for window replacement on the south side of the high school.
Board President Shari Bardash-Eivers noted, "It is vital that we keep our facilities in good physical condition and that we provide a physical setting that supports excellent educational practices. We also realize we need to do everything possible to mitigate the tax impact of capital improvements on our residents. Using EXCEL Aid and then leveraging these state funds with building aid from the state has allowed us to propose over $3.8 million in capital improvements with minimal financial impact. We are also proposing providing additional capital projects funding through our annual operating budget while keeping the budget-to-budget increase to 3.89 percent. We believe this situation is a win-win for our district and our taxpayers."
The EXCEL Aid program offers school districts a one-time-only opportunity to receive additional state funding for capital projects. The state has offered the Farmingdale School District $2,040,368 in EXCEL Aid. With regular building aid the district receives on capital projects, the district is proposing $3,886,415 in capital projects to be accomplished with state funds. The proposed capital projects plan will be on the May 15 ballot (the day of the school budget and trustee elections) as Proposition #2. If approved by voters, there will be negligible cost to taxpayers.
Recently completed capital projects include brick repointing and pool dehumidification at the high school, brick repointing and boiler/burner replacement at Howitt East, brick repointing at Howitt West and boiler/burner replacement at Woodward Parkway. Boiler/burner replacement is currently under way at Albany Avenue. Approval of Proposition #2 on May 15 will provide funding for boiler/burner replacements at the high school, Howitt Middle School West and Northside and Saltzman East Memorial elementary schools and window replacement on the south side of the high school.

School Budget Vote and Election Results 5/15/07:
Proposition 1 – Budget Yes: 2285 No: 1414 passed by 871 votes
Proposition 2 – Excel Aid Yes: 2296 No: 960 passed by 1336 votes
Proposition 3 – FYC Budget Yes: 2309 No: 1067 passed by 1242 votes

Trustee Election Results
Russ Catanzaro  -2291
Tina Diamond    -2018
Anthony Sagginario 1416

Farmingdale High School senior Dyana Gosline will be attending the Accessory Design Program at the Fashion Institute of Technology. Gosline has wanted to be a fashion designer since her first shoe design project in her freshman fashion class. The Accessory Design Program at FIT has accepted only 25 students into their program, Gosline being one. Gosline's designs are unique incorporating everyday items like rice bags and student "late passes."

APRIL 2007

About Farmingdale Village, Nassau County Zip code: 11735 Land area: 1.1 square miles

Population (year 2000): 8,399. Estimated population in July 2005: 8,668 (+3.2% change)
Males: 4,097 (48.8%), Females: 4,302 (51.2%)

Median resident age: 37.9 years
Median household income: $58,411 (year 2000)
Median house value: $212,000 (year 2000)

Races in Farmingdale:

White Non-Hispanic (80.8%)
Hispanic (12.6%)
Other race (5.1%)
Two or more races (2.4%)
Asian Indian (1.7%)
Black (1.6%)
Chinese (1.0%)
(Total can be greater than 100% because Hispanics could be counted in other races)

Ancestries: Italian (34.3%), Irish (24.6%), German (17.0%), Polish (5.7%), English (3.0%), United States (2.6%).

For population 25 years and over in Farmingdale Village

High school or higher: 84.7%
Bachelor's degree or higher: 29.0%
Graduate or professional degree: 11.3%
Unemployed: 3.7%
Mean travel time to work: 30.3 minutes

For population 15 years and over in Farmingdale village

Never married: 30.0%
Now married: 53.3%
Separated: 1.9%
Widowed: 6.8%
Divorced: 8.0%
17.4% Foreign born (7.9% Latin America, 4.9% Europe, 3.9% Asia).

Population change in the 1990s: +109 (+1.3%).

Farmingdale Village compared to New York state average:
Median household income above state average.
Median house value significantly above state average.
Black race population percentage significantly below state average.
Hispanic race population percentage above state average.
Foreign-born population percentage significantly above state average.
Population density above state average for cities.

About South Farmingdale, Nassau County Zip code: 11735 Land area: 2.2 square miles

Population (year 2000): 15,061
Males: 7,397 (49.1%), Females: 7,664 (50.9%)

Median resident age: 38.2 years
Median household income: $71,168 (year 2000)
Median house value: $207,100 (year 2000)

Races in South Farmingdale:

White Non-Hispanic (89.2%)
Hispanic (5.9%)
Other race (1.8%)
Two or more races (1.1%)
Asian Indian (1.0%)
Black (0.8%)
Filipino (0.7%)
Chinese (0.7%)
(Total can be greater than 100% because Hispanics could be counted in other races)

Ancestries: Italian (37.8%), Irish (24.5%), German (20.6%), Polish (5.6%), English (4.4%), United States (3.8%).

For population 25 years and over in South Farmingdale

High school or higher: 87.5%
Bachelor's degree or higher: 22.6%
Graduate or professional degree: 7.3%
Unemployed: 2.5%
Mean travel time to work: 34.7 minutes

For population 15 years and over in South Farmingdale CDP

Never married: 23.1%
Now married: 63.5%
Separated: 1.0%
Widowed: 7.5%
Divorced: 4.9%
8.8% Foreign born (3.4% Europe, 2.6% Asia, 2.6% Latin America).

Daytime population change due to commuting: -5,738 (-38.1%)
Workers who live and work in this city: 367 (5.1%)


Median household income above state average.
Median house value significantly above state average.
Unemployed percentage below state average.
Black race population percentage significantly below state average.
Foreign-born population percentage above state average.
Renting percentage significantly below state average.
Number of rooms per house above state average.
Population density above state average for cities.

About East Farmingdale, Suffolk County Zip code: 11735 Land area: 5.4 square miles

Population (year 2000): 5,400 Males: 2,737 (50.7%), Females: 2,663 (49.3%)

Median resident age: 34.0 years
Median household income: $68,125 (year 2000)
Median house value: $186,900 (year 2000)

Races in East Farmingdale:

White Non-Hispanic (67.1%)
Black (14.8%)
Hispanic (12.7%)
Other race (4.5%)
Two or more races (3.0%)
Asian Indian (1.6%)
Other Asian (0.8%)
Chinese (0.6%)
American Indian (0.5%)
(Total can be greater than 100% because Hispanics could be counted in other races)

Ancestries: Italian (22.7%), Irish (20.7%), German (13.4%), Polish (5.4%), English (4.2%), West Indian (3.2%).

For population 25 years and over in East Farmingdale

High school or higher: 80.9%
Bachelor's degree or higher: 21.8%
Graduate or professional degree: 8.1%
Unemployed: 5.4%
Mean travel time to work: 27.9 minutes

For population 15 years and over in East Farmingdale CDP

Never married: 28.2% Now married: 57.5% Separated: 1.3% Widowed: 6.0% Divorced: 6.9%
20.0% Foreign born (13.0% Latin America, 5.0% Europe).

Daytime population change due to commuting: +16,793 (+311.0%)
Workers who live and work in this city: 293 (11.2%)

East Farmingdale compared to New York state average:

· Median household income above state average.

· Median house value significantly above state average.

· Hispanic race population percentage above state average.

· Foreign-born population percentage significantly above state average.

College/University in Farmingdale:

FARMINGDALE SHS (Students: 1,851; Location: 150 LINCOLN ST; Grades: 09 - 12)
Public primary/middle schools in Farmingdale:

HOWITT SCHOOL (Students: 1,573; Location: 70 VAN COTT AVE; Grades: 06 - 08)
WOODWARD PARKWAY ES (Students: 1,026; Location: 95 WOODWARD PKY; Grades: KG - 05)
SALTZMAN EAST MEMORIAL ES (Students: 747; Location: 25 MILL LN; Grades: KG - 05)
NORTHSIDE ES (Students: 547; Location: 55 POWELL PL; Grades: KG - 05)
Library in Farmingdale:

FARMINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY (Operating income: $2,866,953; Location: 116 MERRITTS ROAD; 224,205 books; 10,123 audio materials; 10,877 video materials; 566 serial subscriptions)

CCAF does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of any information given. Use at your own risk. This data has been compiled from multiple government and commercial sources.

Recent Farmingdale Fire at Storage Facility Deemed Suspicious

The Arson Bomb Squad of the Nassau County Police Department recently reported the details of a suspicious fire that occurred in Farmingdale on Friday, March 9 at 2:10 a.m.

According to detectives, the fire, located at the Palascal Corporation on Eastern Parkway, is deemed suspicious. They state that two males, approximately 6 feet, medium build, wearing dark clothing were seen running from the property immediately before the fire started. They fled on foot eastbound on Eastern Parkway.

The building, which was destroyed, was a storage building and was not occupied at the time. Chief Skip Schumeyer of the Farmingdale Fire Department was present at the scene. A total of 12 fire departments responded with 25 pieces of apparatus and 200 firefighters. There were no injuries.

The Arson Bomb Squad and Fire Marshal Mennella of the Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office are continuing the investigation.

Detectives request anyone with information about this fire to call Crime Stoppers at 800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.

County Renews Lease on Land Near Massapequa Preserve

Nassau County has renewed its lease on a section of land that is owned by New York State and is adjacent to the Massapequa Preserve in the Viceroy section of Farmingdale. The original lease agreement between Nassau County and New York State was for a 20-year period that would have expired on Feb. 28 of this year. The county has renewed the lease for 10 years and is in negotiations to acquire the land from New York State in a land swap deal. The new agreement does not satisfy some local residents who are upset with the condition of the land and feel that much more needs to be done to protect and preserve the area.

"The extension of the lease does not solve the problem," said Richard Schary, who is president of the Friends of the Massapequa Preserve. "It's good that it buys more time, but right now there are no signs of anyone taking ownership of the property."

The area that is the focus of all this attention is a 31-acre stretch of land that is adjacent to but not part of the Massapequa Preserve. It is located behind Farmingdale High School and runs north towards the Woodward Parkway Elementary School. Schary and the Friends of the Massapequa Preserve have been petitioning for years to have the land become part of the Massapequa Preserve or at least have a local government take responsibility for the care and maintenance of the area.

Led by the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference and co-sponsored by Friends of the Massapequa Preserve, local residents joined a free, guided hike of about three miles of the aforementioned area on Sunday, Feb. 25.

"The county has done some cleaning up but the problems continue," said Schary. "There are parties, ATVs and other off-road vehicles, fires, tree-chopping, dumping, encroachments and litter. To this date, we have not gotten control of this area. The Friends of the Massapequa Preserve is tired of getting e-mails, phone calls and letters complaining about the area and asking us to do something about it," Schary said. "There are more problems in this 31 acres of space then there are in the 423 acres of the Massapequa Preserve."

Added Lisa Schary, who is a board member of the Friends of the Massapequa Preserve, "the woodlands are a free-for-all for illegal activities and harm to the environment. Passive recreation in the form of a nature trail will increase visibility and serve to remove negative behavior and serve to preserve our quality of life for future generations."

Mike Grello is president of the Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale. He also expressed similar concerns about the state of the area and a strong desire to see the land declared an extension of the Massapequa Preserve.

"Renewing the lease does zero for the property," said Grello. "It's time to do the right thing now, stop the short-term fixes, take over the land and designate it a preserve. It needs a designation of a preserve to preserve the property forever and to make it a preserve - not just woods. Renewing a lease doesn't give it the added protection of county workers who are familiar with maintaining a preserve and it doesn't give it protection from development."

Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias has been a supporter of protecting this area. According to Mejias, the county has been working towards cleaning up the area and is in negotiations to take over the land in a deal with New York State.

"The county has done our part," said Mejias. "We've cleaned it up, signed the extension and are negotiating to take it over."

According to Mejias, the 10-year extension does not mean that the situation will continue as such for 10 years. The legislator stated that the extension was signed for 10 years, as that is a standard lease. However, Mejias said that Nassau County is negotiating with New York State to have the land transferred to Nassau County as part of a multi-land deal. If the land is transferred, the county could then declare it a perpetual preserve and provide it with all of the benefits of such a designation.

Mejias also said that as a local resident, this is an important issue to him. "The preserve is very important to me. I live near it. I train for the marathon in it. I will do everything I can to make sure that it is protected and kept in pristine condition."

Those interested in learning more may contact the Friends of the Massapequa Preserve at 541-2461 or by logging on to the Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale's website, www.ccaf-civic.org.

Alarm warns sleeping man of blaze

An early morning blaze yesterday set off a fire alarm in a Farmingdale cooperative apartment, jolting a man from his sleep and averting tragedy, police said.

Once awake, the unidentified 54-year-old, who was in bed in another room, noticed that his living room couch was on fire and called 911 at 6 a.m., police said.

The Farmingdale, South Farmingdale and Bethpage fire departments responded to the 26 Ivy St. address, a complex with several buildings, and extinguished the fire, according to the fire marshal's office.

The victim's unit had extensive fire and smoke damage and a neighboring unit also was less severely affected, according to police.

The victim was taken to New Island Hospital in Bethpage, where he was treated and released for smoke inhalation.

The fire, which is under investigation, is considered accidental, police said.

Driver dies after hitting fence

February

A motorist was pronounced dead at the scene yesterday after his car struck a fence in South Farmingdale and a post pierced the windshield, striking him in the head, police said.

Frank Gerdes, 54, of 260 Kensington Ct., Copiague, lost control of his 2000 Chevrolet Malibu for no known reason at 2:17 p.m. as he was traveling along Main Street in South Farmingdale, Nassau police said.
Homicide detectives are investigating whether Gerdes suffered a health emergency that led to the accident, police said.

Gerdes was driving south on Main Street, crossed through the north lane near Pleasant Drive, and struck about 25 feet of chain-link fence in front of 861 Main, police said. He then struck another car parked in the driveway before coming to a stop, police said.

Gerdes was taken to Nassau University Medical Center for a medical examiner's determination of cause of death. The car was impounded for brake and safety checks.

Stolen items returned, two women arrested in Farmingdale

Hours after two women robbed a 54-year-old woman of her purse and a shopping bag full of clothes and jewelry in Farmingdale, they were caught and arrested, Nassau police said Saturday. At 9:15 Friday night, the shopper had just entered her parked car in the lot of a Walgreen's store on Main Street, when a woman opened the passenger door, grabbed the victim's arm and demanded her purse, police spokesman Officer Michael Toich said. A second female then opened the driver's side door and grabbed the victim's purse. They also took a JCPenney shopping bag with clothes and jewelry. The victim called 911 and described her attackers, police said. About a half-hour later, Eighth Precinct Officers Michael Bjornstad and John Christie found Cynthia M. Lambert, 19, of 62 Grant St., South Farmingdale; and Ashakei B. Croft, 20, of 134 Davidson St., Wyandanch, parked in a 1996 Dodge Neon at Saxon Road and Paula Drive in South Farmingdale. All of the stolen items were with them and later returned to the victim, police said. Lambert and Croft were charged with second-degree robbery. Both pleaded not guilty at the arraignments in First District Court in Hempstead Saturday. Croft was released on the condition that she report frequently to a probation officer while Lambert was ordered held in lieu of $750 bail.

Critics slam cell phone tower in park

Farmingdale residents turned out to oppose the proposed location of a cellular telephone tower in Bethpage State Park.

After the Wednesday night hearing, attended by 50 people, the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and other officials said they would consider alternative sites before deciding.

The tower, which would provide state and commercial cell service, would be located in the southeastern corner of the park, adjacent to the state park police barracks on Bethpage Road.

The project is proposed by Crown Communication NY on behalf of the state. The top of the tower would be used by the state, while commercial wireless companies would place antennas from the 65-foot to the 105-foot level.

Jacqueline Phillips Murray, a Crown attorney, said the tower is part of a project begun in 1997 to provide wireless facilities on state property for commercial firms and improve the state's communications capabilities.

As for the park site, she said, 'there are gaps in wireless telecommunications service in that area and the facility would remedy the gaps. The public proposed an alternative site at the park maintenance facility that the Crown and the state are actively considering.'

Most residents who spoke against the project said they didn't oppose a cell tower but opposed the specific location. They said they fear for the safety of their children at a nearby elementary school and believe that the tower, which would also serve as a flagpole, would stand out like a sore thumb because it would be much higher than the surrounding trees.

Before the meeting, resident Seymour Weinstein sent a letter to his neighbors outlining the concerns. 'The entrance to the state police facility is located on Bethpage Road and is less than 100 yards from the nearby houses and 200 yards from the Northside Elementary School,' he said.

Assemb. James Conte opposes the tower. 'This is the wrong project, in the wrong location, at the wrong time,' he said.

Farmingdale Village officials also oppose the location.

Car Crashes Into Farmingdale House, Occupants Flee Scene

On Monday, Jan. 22, at 6:30 a.m. the Farmingdale Fire Department responded to a car into a house on the corner of Melville Road and Secatogue Avenue. The driver and one occupant left the scene and the Nassau County Police Department is investigating. There was minor damage to the house and the carriage in the front yard. No injuries were reported.

Suspicious Fire Damages Abandoned Building in Farmingdale

An early morning fire on Jan. 22 that damaged an abandoned building north of Republic Airport in East Farmingdale took 100 responding volunteer firefighters almost three hours to extinguish.

Conklin Street was closed for over an hour while firefighters battled the blaze that is being investigated by the Suffolk Arson Squad as "suspicious."

"There has been a chronic problem of people gaining access to the building," explained Det. Sgt. Bruce Tilden of the Suffolk County Police Department's Arson Squad. "Whether they're using it as a hangout or to temporarily reside in - it's been going on for a long time."

The two-and-a-half-story structure, owned by the New York State Department of Transportation, has been abandoned for 20 years.

"There is no power, heating system or cooking stove, so why would you have a fire?" added Tilden. "There is no reason for a fire to start there. It's pretty obvious that the fire was recklessly or intentionally done."

The building has been the victim of previous fires so officials said it is hard to determine what damage is new.

"There are holes in the roof and things like that, some of which pre-existed the fire," Tilden said. "The building is in a dilapidated and unsafe state."

Gary Lewi, a spokesperson for the Farmingdale-based Republic Airport, said "there are no current plans to demolish the building."

"There are, however, redevelopment proposals for the site that would see many of the structures currently on the property either rehabilitated or torn down. As those concepts move forward in what will be a comprehensive review and RFP process, a decision will be made at that time as to the fate of these buildings."

Town of Babylon Fire Marshal Chief Gilbert W. Hanse added, "the building was in a state of disrepair before the fire. The fire did damage to the building, but the whole building should be torn down."

Hanse also reported that no firefighters were injured during the fire and Lewi added that there was no interruption in air traffic operations.

Village Board Amends Zoning Codes Traffic Calming Talks Continue

Traffic Calming Proposal

The village board presented the latest traffic calming proposal to residents. It included lighted crosswalks from the Grey & Grey building to Village Hall (across Main Street) and the Grey & Grey building to the Farmingdale post office (across Prospect Street), rumble strips down Prospect Street and speed tables at the west end of Prospect.

All proposed chokers have been removed except in cases where the residents have requested them.

"Those that were not in favor of having a bump out in front of their house, as per recommendation from H2M [the village's engineering firm], have been removed," Mayor George Graf added.

Zoning Law Changes

The zoning laws are the product of the study the board has undertaken during the building moratorium. One law increases the lot width required for homes in the B District. The other would introduce office/residential use to the B District as a permitted use with a special exception.

With Section 105-58, permitted uses are amended to read:

A. Any uses permitted in a Residence AA District.

B. (Reserved)

C. A private garage for storage of not more than three motor vehicles, one of which may be a commercial vehicle having a capacity not exceeding one-half ton.

D. Office/Residential use for properties fronting on Conklin Street, Fulton Street and West Street, provided the owner satisfies the conditions set forth in Article XIA Office/Residential District.

Office/Residential District homes have an office that is owner-occupied and they can rent out the residential portion of the home as an apartment. Several residents questioned why West Street was included. Building Superintendent Ron Craig explained that to be converted to office/residence use, buildings would still have to meet specific requirements such as parking, which requires one parking spot for every 200 square feet.

"As it is currently configured, West Street homes cannot accommodate sufficient parking," Craig added.

The board voted unanimously to pass measures A-C and tabled D. Deputy Mayor Joe Rachiele and Trustee Pat Christiansen voted against tabling the latter measure. This law is to take place immediately.

As for Section 105-63, lot area is deleted and the new Section 105-63, for B Zone only, is provided as follows:

1. No principal building or accessory building shall be erected upon a lot that has a street frontage and minimum lot width at the front and rear wall of the principal building of less than 60 feet and a lot area of less than 6,000 square feet.

2. The lot area and frontage requirements set forth herein shall not apply to any lot having an area and/or frontage of less than that prescribed herein, provided that such a lot has an area of at least 5,000 square feet and was under different ownership from that of any adjoining land on June 5, 2006 and provided further that such lot and any adjoining land did not come under common ownership since that date.

3. If any lot on which building has been erected shall be subdivided into two or more lots in such manner that the resulting lot on which such building remains shall not comply with Paragraph 1 hereof, the right of the owner thereof to maintain such building of such lot shall immediately cease, and he or she shall remove the same on the order of the building superintendent.

"An informal inventory of divisible lots we found 14 parcels in a B zone with 100-square foot street frontages that would be immediately impacted by this legislation," Craig added.

Section 105-63 passed unanimously and is on record as having being in effect since June 5, 2006, when the moratorium began.

Sincerely

Michael Grello

Please Visit The Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale (CCAF) website at http://www.ccaf-civic.org

January 2007

Suspect in chase locked up

January 01, 2007

Richard Mair, who led police on a high-speed chase that ended when he crashed into a Farmingdale house and killed a man inside, will not get out of jail any time soon.

At his arraignment in yesterday, District Court Judge Salvatore Alamia set Mair's bail for the felony charge of fleeing a police officer at $2 million. But that figure means little because Mair is on lifetime parole because of a 2003 conviction for selling cocaine, and his parole has now been revoked.

Wearing a white one-piece jumpsuit and a large white cast on his left hand, Mair, 28, of Ridge, did not speak audibly during the brief hearing. His attorney, Ira Weissman of Central did not challenge the bail amount but said afterward that police have not handled the case properly.

The prosector, Assistant District Attorney Kate Wagner, said Mair had been smoking marijuana and was in the midst of a drug deal when Suffolk police approached him Thursday in a part of Amityville known for drug dealing. She also said police found what they believe to be marijuana in Mair's car after he crashed into the house.

Mair fled in his Pontiac at speeds said to be between 90 and 100 mph. Wagner said that during the chase Mair tried to knock other vehicles into the police cars that were following him. He eventually lost control of the car and crashed into the living room of William Calhoun's house on Fulton Street. Calhoun, 59, was sitting on his couch and was killed when the car struck him.

After the arraignment, Weissman told reporters that police and prosecutors have had 'an excessive amount of time to go over the events and justify their conduct' in the case. He said police initially did not have a reason to question Mair about the alleged drug deal.

'I don't believe the police had any right to confront my client or to stop my client,' he said. 'That's going to be a big issue here.'

Weissman said he may challenge the legal basis for the statute Mair is charged with breaking: fleeing from a police officer. He said he plans to begin investigating how Mair and the police acted.

'This is a terrible event, a terrible tragedy that probably could have been avoided without a lot of conduct that didn't need to take place,' he said. 'And it's an absolute shame and I think that needs to be examined.'

Wagner said police were merely trying to stop a drug deal when Mair drove away.

'The Police Department was making a stop of a narcotics sale in progress,' she said. 'It appears that the Police Department acted appropriately in hopes of stopping a narcotics sale in progress. The defendant got into his car and sped away

FSD board trustee creates NYSSBA legislative agenda

Farmingdale School Board Trustee Tina Diamond was one of seven school board members statewide instrumental in formulating and passing a New York State School Board (NYSSBA) legislative resolution entitled "School Property Tax Relief" during the organization's annual business meeting in October. The resolutions adopted by the school board delegation at the meeting become the position statements that form NYSSBA's legislation agenda.

In September, Diamond met with fellow appointees in Albany to propose "revenue neutral" solutions to decrease property taxes. Several property-tax experts presented the committee with material for their review during the two-day meeting. The committee then formulated recommendations that were presented at NYSSBA's meeting in the form of the resolution "School Property Tax Relief".

"Having a local school board member serve on the statewide committee affords Farmingdale the opportunity to voice our concerns to our legislators, who have the power to reform property tax law" said Diamond.

The resolution recognizes that many school districts have reached the tipping point, where the reliance on the real property tax is threatening their financial support. Rather than a specific proposal, this resolution presents a set of working principles to guide the debate over public education funding reform and to encourage decisions that decrease the reliance on the real property tax to fund public education. This resolution allows NYSSBA to remain relevant and influential in the debate on public education funding reform.

"Now that this resolution has been adopted - it will bring this issue onto the table for NYSSBA to discuss varied funding concepts openly with our legislators," said Diamond. "Restructuring the funding of public schools is necessary if we are to improve our standard of living and maintain our community as an affordable, vibrant place to live and raise our families."

As a Farmingdale School Board member, Diamond is no stranger to committees. She is an executive board member of the Nassau Suffolk School Board Association as well as an active member of the Farmingdale Lobby Committee. In these roles she has lobbied on behalf of public schools, their students and taxpayers to state and federal officials.

Babylon IDA offers tax incentives along 110 corridor

While unemployment is at an all time low nationwide, the average salaries have declined, raising concerns, particularly here on Long Island where housing and taxes eat up a larger portion of the average income than in most urban areas throughout the United States.

"When you look at the figures you realize we are looking at the perfect storm and that if we don't address what the statistics are telling us our economy will be in serious trouble," said Babylon Town Supervisor Steve Bellone.

One way to overcome some of the predictors for economic failure is to encourage high tech businesses that pay high salaries to Long Island and in

Bellone's case, to Babylon. As a result, the supervisor unveiled an economic incentive program to encourage the development of a Class A office building along the Babylon portion of the Route 110 Corridor. Under the proposal, the Babylon Industrial Development Agency (IDA) will offer an unprecedented 100 percent abatement for all real property taxes for the construction and occupation of high end office buildings in the Corridor.

"The Route 110 Corridor is Long Island's main stree for high tech, bio-science, manufacturing, industrial and financial companies and jobs," said Bellone. "With this unprecedented incentive package, we are hoping to spur construction and occupancy of this type of office space in the town in order to attract thousands of new high-wage jobs to were largest in professional and business services (+2,400), educational and health services (+2,300), natural resources, mining and construction (+1,300), leisure and hospitality (+1,000), and other services (+500). There were also job gains in information (+300), and trade, transportation and utilities (+100). Employment declined over the year in manufacturing (-1,500) and financial activities (- 1,000). The August unemployment rate of 4.0 percent was unchanged from August 2005.

Statistics show, however, that salaries did not fol low the same upward pattern. Compensation in private industry dropped between 2001 and 2003 on Long Island, rose again between 2003 and mid-year 2004 and then significantly declined until it began a modest upswing late last year, leveling off since then.

The program will be administered through the Babylon IDA's Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program. It will eliminate all real property taxes in the first year of the ten-year PILOT plan, and phase the payments in evenly over a ten-year period.

Housing bias case settlement November, 2006

A millionaire real estate tycoon who recently pledged $1 million to Hofstra University only to find himself sued by Hofstra Law School's housing rights clinic has settled a dispute with Latino tenants in Farmingdale his attorney and others said yesterday.

Mark Broxmeyer, an owner of Fairfield Properties, who until last month was also a trustee at Hofstra, has agreed to provide seven families still remaining at 150 Secatogue Ave. with cash or guaranteed affordable housing for several years. The deal will cost the company at least $110,000, said Ami Lipman, a law student at the clinic.

In exchange, Fairfield, a property management company, will be dropped from a federal discrimination lawsuit the law clinic filed against Farmingdale Village and the previous owner of the building, said Hofstra law professor Stefan Krieger, who filed the suit.

'This is a victory and shows that just because you are low-income or a minority does not mean you can't fight a person with means,' said Cristina Ruiz Diaz of the Casa Comunal, a local immigrant advocate group that has helped the tenants.

Gary C. Hisiger, an attorney representing Fairfield, said the company was 'pleased' with the settlement.

Six of the families accepted a one-time payment of $16,500 each. One accepted guaranteed affordable housing at another Fairfield property in Farmingdale for at least three years and a $7,500 payment to help defray increased rent. The family also has the right to return to 150 Secatogue in 12 to 18 months, when renovations are complete, Krieger said.

Fairfield bought the 54-unit apartment building for $4.5 million in July. The building served as the heart of Farmingdale's 'Little Latin America' and had been the focus of a battle between the previous owner, the village and the tenants for several years.

Hofstra's law clinic filed a federal discrimination lawsuit in May charging that the village was engaged in a campaign to drive Latinos out of town in part by encouraging the sale of the building and eviction of its tenants. Village officials denied it, and said they merely wanted to spruce up a dilapidated building.

The conflict raised questions about whether Broxmeyer, who is also an alumnus of Hofstra, would withdraw his $1 million pledge to create a visiting chair in national security studies. Broxmeyer's office referred questions to Hisiger, who declined to comment.

Hofstra officials said yesterday that as far as they know Broxmeyer's pledge is still good.

Krieger said he was pleased with the settlement but he will continue with the court case to pressure the village to help create 'integrated, affordable housing.'

One tenant, Ana Maria Mora Gomez, said, 'I hope Fairfield understands now that you can't treat certain people differently.'

9/20/06 Republic Airport Advisory Committee.

Frank Nocerino

· There will be no minutes of these meetings.

· There will be no business that dwells on past issues

· Master Plan

· 60,000lbs weight limit

· Those are just two examples

According to the FAA Republic Airport is NOT required to have a Master Plan. Based on that ‘THERE WILL BE NO MASTER PLAN FOR REPUBLIC AIRPORT’

· If for any reason I see that this committee is not going anywhere I will disolve it at any time.

· We have an agenda and we will stick to it

· Any projects that come up from the DOT will go through this committee FIRST.

· To add a topic to a future agenda (starting in January) it must be requested ahead of time.

Stella Barbierie (sic) will Chair the group. Frank Nocerino will NOT be present at the meetings.

Michael Geiger

I want to develop better relations with the community.

We would welcome any invitation to local civic association meetings.

There are 15 entities that are part of the Advisory Committee, all had responded that they would be at the meeting on the 20^th.

^{Numerous associations did not show up.}

^{REFCA, CCAF, POBCCA, Farmingdale Chamber, Town of OysterBay, Country Point Civic were represented. I may have missed one.}

^{Town of Babylon did not send a representative. Word is that they are not thrilled with the idea of the group, but the main reason I heard was that due to the current litigation they stayed away.}

^{Issues for the agenda}

· ^{Teterboro 100,000lbs weight limit}

· ^{Status of 60,000lbs weight limit}

· ^{Lot & Block numbers on the 11 acres aquired by the State}

^{According to Republic it has been deeded into the parcels that NO runways can be placed on them.}

^{I will try to obtain copies of the deeds. Airport Map with all properties designated Noise Abatement Brocheure provided to pilots}

^{Most of the meeting was spent on a tour around the airport. At the moment what is planned is that the hangers and business on the East side (along New Highway - including the museum) will be moved to the Breslau location. This being done (from what we were told) for safety. Nothing new will be built there if I understood them correctly. It brings them in compliance with FAA regulations.}

Republic Airport report/Updates

I wanted to give you a complete rundown of what went on at last night's
meeting. 8/8/2006

There is still an injunction against NorthEastern preventing any building
on the Hangers at the moment. The TOB and State are supposed to meet with
the Judge on Friday. The letters submitted to the FAA regarding the
Enviromental review are to be reviewed in the next two weeks.

According to Michael Geiger the FAA does not generally send responses to
those who submitted letters, however, he said that the airport would send
the responses to those who wrote in. My personal opinion is that we only
delayed the inevitable.

I brought up with the airport if it would be acceptable to submit
complaints via e-mail. We were encouraged to do so, that they would be
responded to via e-mail and that they would go into the record as the phone
calls do.

The weekend of the big thunderstorms (2 weeks ago I think) the airport
electrical system was struck by lightening causing the voice answering
system to get fried. It happened on a Friday night and they did not
realize it until later, that the system was shot. They were able to
receive calls, but no messages. It also, coincidentally was a weekend with
a tremendous amount of Jet traffic.

If you could not get through to the airport that weekend, they asked that
the complaints and times still be submitted. Overall the number of
complaints are way down. This maybe something to send out in a e-mail to
members.

I think e-mailing complaints will increase the number (I know myself
personally I'd rather shoot off an e-mail then call). All of the same
information should be sent in as you would leave in a call.

A Pledge to Hofstra Is Caught in Controversy

October,2006

In his 34-year relationship with , Mark Broxmeyer, an alumnus and an owner of one of the biggest apartment development and management companies on Long Island, has become a trustee of the university, has had a conference room named for his family, and has pledged $1 million to establish a chair in national security studies.

But then on May 25, three weeks after the university announced his pledge, the housing rights clinic at Hofstra’s law school sued Mr. Broxmeyer’s company, Fairfield Properties, on behalf of tenants who accuse it of violating the Fair Housing Act. Negotiations to settle the case broke down last week, and now there is concern that Mr. Broxmeyer may be reconsidering his pledge — concern that the developer has done nothing to allay.

“There are rumors that he is unhappy enough to want to go away,” said Hofstra’s president, Stuart Rabinowitz. But he noted that Mr. Broxmeyer had not contacted him, and added, “I did not hear that he is formally stepping down from the board.”

The case has lifted Mr. Broxmeyer and his company, which he owns with his brother and son, out of the business pages and onto the news pages. Advocates for immigrants have portrayed him as a greedy developer seeking to evict seven Hispanic workers and their families from a run-down apartment building in the Village of Farmingdale, in Nassau County, to make way for more expensive apartments.

Mr. Broxmeyer did not return calls to his office seeking comment. A spokesman, Ken Bayne, would say only that he “has not made any decision as to whether or not he’s going to back away from his pledge or whether he’s going to resign from the board.”

The Hofstra law professor involved in the case, Stefan Krieger, said he considered the relationship between Mr. Broxmeyer and Hofstra before filing the tenants’ lawsuit but concluded that “there would have been ethical problems with not pursuing the case.”

Mr. Krieger and his law students began working with the Farmingdale tenants more than a year before Mr. Broxmeyer’s company bought the building at the center of the controversy. The tenants had already sued the previous owner of the 56-unit building, known by its address, 150 Secatogue Avenue, in March 2005 for health and safety violations. An inspection by the village after a 2005 fire had uncovered 175 violations, including rats, vermin and black mold in the apartments.

But the case was dismissed after the village forced the former owner, John Tosini of Secatogue Realty, to make repairs. It was then, the tenants say, that the village contacted Fairfield Properties to buy the building in the expectation that the company would improve it.

As the deal progressed, Mr. Tosini stopped renewing leases and started evicting tenants, Mr. Krieger said. Fairfield, which already owned another apartment building in the village, and bills those units as luxury apartments, continued the evictions when it closed on the 150 Secatogue purchase in July. Mr. Krieger said Fairfield paid $4.5 million.

The lawsuit seeks to stop the evictions and charges that the village helped broker the transaction between Secatogue Realty and Fairfield Properties, which continued the eviction of the tenants.

“When a private party aids and abets a village in discriminatory behavior, that is prohibited by the Fair Housing Act,” Mr. Krieger said.

Cristina Ruiz Diaz, a Farmingdale resident who is an advocate for the tenants, said: “I know it’s private property. But he could be the example in Nassau County” by making 20 percent of the building affordable “and still make money.”

For now, the remaining residents at 150 Secatogue are facing eviction after a long fight to repair the roughly $1,100-a-month apartments, even as Fairfield’s renovations cut cable television wires and uproot trees in the courtyard, Ms. Ruiz Diaz said.

Ana Maria Mora, 43, and her 20-year-old son live in a one-bedroom apartment in the C-shaped three-story complex a block from the train station. The neighboring apartments are empty and locked.

Inside Ms. Mora’s apartment, the bathtub looks white and new, but push down on it and the bottom slides back and forth, as the water pooled underneath sloshes. There is also mold returning to the bathroom walls, bleeding through the paint job the previous landlord applied to cover it up, Ms. Mora said.

Like many towns and villages across Long Island, the 1.1-square-mile village of Farmingdale, population 9,000, has struggled in recent years with an influx of immigrant workers who need low-cost housing even as real estate costs are rising beyond the means of many working people.

Hispanic residents — many, like Ms. Mora, from Mexico or Central America — made up an eighth of Farmingdale’s population at the last census. Many live in overcrowded homes or apartments.

The village passed a law in July to increase fines for renting single-family homes to two or more families, and in the past it has raised parking fines to penalize contractors stopping to pick up day laborers on a street corner down the road from Ms. Mora’s building. Now the lawsuit has drawn Mr. Broxmeyer into the debate.

“It’s enough, the way we’ve been treated,” said Antonio Bustillo, 35, another resident who is facing eviction.

He will try to hold out until the court rules on the case, he said. Fairfield plans to create 56 mostly one-bedroom apartments that it will rent for about $1,450 per month, according to a lawyer for the company, Robert Schonfeld of Garden City.

Ms. Mora and her son pay $1,075 a month. She earns $1,100 monthly at her job in a paper factory in Deer Park, which she reaches by train.

Mr. Bustillo said he and his two brothers paid $1,145 a month. “It’s a lot of money for the conditions we’re living in,” he said. He earns $1,000 to $2,000 a month building swimming pools.

The tenants are at their limit, Mr. Krieger said. “The idea of even $300 or $400 a month for them just pushes them over the edge,” he added.

For now, Mr. Broxmeyer is still on Hofstra’s board of trustees, and university officials expect him to honor his $1 million pledge. Mr. Rabinowitz, the university’s president, said the law school clinic must “exercise independent judgment” in the Farmingdale case, without considering Mr. Broxmeyer’s gift or any threat to withdraw it.

The future is also uncertain for the residents at 150 Secatogue. They say they are seeking a fair deal.

“We just want to have the apartments fixed a little and we’ll continue to pay rent,” Ms. Mora said

Pedestrian struck and killed by taxi

October, 2006,

A taxi cab struck and killed a man walking in East Farmingdale at about 2.52 a.m. Saturday.

The man, who police are attempting to identify, was hit at the intersection of Route 109 and E. Carmans Road. He was taken by East Farmingdale Rescue to Mid Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 3:35 a.m.

The cab was impounded for a safety check. Criminal charges have not been filed, according to a Suffolk County Police Department news release.

If you have information about the crash or the identity of the victim, call police at 631-854-8178.

Farmingdale Board of Education Meeting

December 6, 2006 January 10, 2007
February 7, 2007 March 7, 2007
April 11, 2007 May 2, 2007
June 6, 2007

Recognition Meetings 7:00 p.m.
Howitt Middle School East Cafeteria

April 24, 2007 May 8, 2007

Board Recognition Board Recognition / Fine Arts

Budget Meetings
8:00 p.m.
Howitt Middle School East Cafeteria

March 14, 2007 March 21, 2007
March 28, 2007 April 11, 2007
April 24, 2007 May 8, 2007

May 15, 2007

July 3, 2007: 2007/2008 Reorganizational Meeting

Republic Airport Commission Meeting Dates

February 27, 2006 at 7:00 pm
April 18, 2006 at 7:00 pm
June 13, 2006 at 7:00 pm
August 8, 2006 at 7:00 pm
October 10, 2006 at 7:00 pm
December 12, 2006 at 7:00 pm

Teen Robbed at Gunpoint in Woods Near FHS Field

Eighth Squad Detectives of the Nassau County Police Department are investigating a robbery that occurred in Farmingdale on Friday, Sept. 29 at 9:45 p.m.

Detectives reported that three black, male subjects, all described as in their early 20s, approached a male victim, 17, walking in the woods near a field at Farmingdale High School on Lincoln Street. According to police, one subject displayed a silver handgun and demanded the victim's cell phone. The victim complied and the three subjects then allegedly fled through the woods toward a rear parking lot and fled the scene in an unknown vehicle.

There were no injuries reported. The victim is a student at Farmingdale High School.

Detectives ask anyone with information regarding this crime to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.

Water Districts sue Liberty Polluters

After paying for the installation of water testing wells to check for pollution caused by the Liberty Industrial Finishing site in Farmingdale, the Massapequa and the South Farmingdale Water Districts have filed a lawsuit with the owners and businesses, including the federal government, seeking reimbursement for the costs of that work.

The six wells, which were required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, act as an early warning system of pollution migration from the polluted site into the area's water supply. The wells were, in fact, endorsed by the federal government, according to Dean Sommers, the attorney representing the water districts.

"The reality is that the federal government operated on and polluted the site," said Sommers. "They later ordered a cleanup and said the wells needed to be monitored to protect the community. Now that they are being asked to contribute (to the cost of that work), they are saying they didn't mean what they said and they are backtracking on their own findings."

The 30-acre Liberty site at 55 Motor Avenue was once home, in part, to an airplane parts manufacturer used during WWII, a metal plating company and a fiberglass company, all of which used hazardous materials that were disposed of on the site, which is now considered a toxic Superfund Site.

The water districts, represented by the Albanyarea law firm of Young, Sommer, Ward, Ritzenberg, Baker & Moore, LLC, have been asking for reimbursement since the installation of the testing wells in the spring of 1998. According to Sommers, they are asking the court for an automatic order for the case, meaning it will not go to trial.

"The facts can't be contested; the liability is clear. It would be a waste of taxpayers' money to go to trial," explained Sommers.

Although there is no dispute that the site caused the pollution, the defendants, 12 individuals and two federal defendants, the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. General Services Administration, said in court papers that they should not be required to pay for the wells because they incurred costs of $537,963.80 by reporting on their activities through newsletters and meetings according to the legal papers.

Another point of the defense is that the wells were installed before the EPA issued an Administrative Order in August 1988 requiring the performance of an interim groundwater response action which was aimed at preventing the "further" spread of contamination.

The water districts maintain that their upgradient wells were vital for ensuring the public's safety under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980 and the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Since an EPAordered pump and treatment system for offsite testing has not yet been installed and will not be operational until about 2008, the plaintiffs said they were obligated to intervene and act on the public's behalf.

The sentinel wells, installed at three different depths at a cost of $600,000, were installed after consulting engineers found in 1996 that the site posed a threat to the Massapequa Water District's (MWD) wells which provides drinking water to residents of Massapequa and the Village of Massapequa Park, and the South Farmingdale Water District (SFWD), which covers South Farmingdale and North Massapequa.

According to a study by the Nassau County Department of Public Works done in March 1997, there is a probability that both water districts could be impacted by the plume as it moves in a southerly direction over the next several years.

The following year, soil testing revealed that a 700- foot wide pollution plume, 3,000-feet from the site, exists underground and travels in the groundwater flow toward the water districts wells. Massapequa's wells sit 9,500 feet from the tainted site, while South Farmingdale's are 4,000 and 7,500 feet away.

The wells were installed by MWD northeast Massapequa

just above Southern State Parkway and just outside the water district. SFWD's testing wells sit nearby. Since their construction, the districts have continued to monitor the wells, which will continue until the remediation of the site is complete.

According to the lawsuit, the "deep" wells, which are between 620 and 646 feet deep, allow a three to five year response time between detection and impact to the public water supply.

The $6000,000 reimbursement cost, plus interest, includes engineering studies, the design and construction of the deep wells and past, current and future monitoring costs associated with the site of all six wells, the latter of which is estimated at $15,000 per year.

"The government needs to step up and pay for the monitoring wells that were necessary to to protect public health when they caused the pollution," said Sommers.

Several calls were made to the defendents in this case but they did not respond at press time.

Latinos fighting evictions

September, 2006

Fairfield Properties purchased an apartment building that serves as the heart of Farmingdale’s 'Little Latin America' and is swiftly forcing out the tenants to make room for luxury condos, activists said Friday.

But eight families in the 54-unit building at 150 Secatogue Ave. are resisting, and the Hofstra University Law School's housing clinic has gone to federal court to block the evictions.

'These are law-abiding people. They have jobs. They just want to live in peace,' said Ami Lipman, a legal intern at the law school's housing clinic who helped file the case along with Professor Stefan H. Krieger.

The housing clinic filed for a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction in U.S. District Court in on Thursday. A hearing is set for Tuesday before Judge Joseph P. Hurley.

Fairfield Properties declined to comment or provide information on the property, including its sale price. Lipman said that, according to papers filed in the case, Fairfield bought the property for $4.75 million last month.

Fairfield's co-founder and partner, Mark Broxmeyer, is a 1972 graduate of Hofstra and a member of its board of trustees. In May, he donated $1 million to the university to endow a visiting chair in national security studies.

Farmingdale Latino activist Cristina Ruiz Diaz said Broxmeyer should set aside some of the units in the building for affordable housing, if not the entire building. 'He's a multimillionaire and he can't deal with eight families?' she said.

Kevin Walsh, Farmingdale Village's attorney, said the village has no role in the dispute over the property because the lawsuit involves private parties. He added that the village has issued permits to Fairfield to start renovating the building because the company met the legal requirements.

Ruiz Diaz and others contend the building is an ideal candidate for a model affordable housing project, but that local officials simply don't want Latinos living in the mainly white community. In May, the housing clinic filed a discrimination lawsuit against the village, claiming that it was trying to drive Latinos out of the community. A decision is still pending in the case. Farmingdale officials have denied the allegations, saying they merely want to clean up a 'blighted' area and increase the village tax base.

The building once held as many as 150 tenants, but the number has dropped to about 25. Those remaining have until the end of this month or the end of next month to leave, Lipman said.

Tenants accused the previous owner, John Tosini, of allowing it to decay to try to force them out. They said it was wracked with rats, vermin, leaking ceilings, peeling paint, mold and other problems. Tosini said he was doing his best to maintain the building

Farmingdale man struck, killed in car accident

September, 2006
A Farmingdale man was struck and killed crossing the street Wednesday evening, police said.

According to police, Nicodemo Ferraro, 72, was crossing Conklin Street in Farmingdale when he was hit by a 2001 Jeep Cherokee driven by Angela Santamaria, 30, of Farmingdale. Police said there is no traffic signal at the location of the accident.
Ferraro was transported to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow, where he was pronounced dead at 8:56 p.m. Santamaria's Jeep Cherokee was impounded for brake and safety tests, police said. No summonses were issued to the driver.

Kurt Ludwig Appointed South Farmingdale Water District Commissioner

South Farmingdale Water District (SFWD) today announced the appointment of Kurt Ludwig to the position of Water Commissioner.

Ludwig brings 17 years of experience and committed community service to SFWD. His deep knowledge of issues that affect South Farmingdale and North Massapequa, combined with his well-established relationships with key community leaders and government officials, will be a significant attribute to the community as he serves as new commissioner.

"A safe and abundant water supply is a vital necessity," commented Ludwig. "It is the lifeline of the community. My main goal is to continue the legacy set forth by my predecessors, who are legendary in their contributions to our community. Fortunately, I have the greatest guides possible to achieve this objective. I hope to keep our budget and operations on course and bring in the necessary technology needed to continue to deliver one of the best water supplies in the nation."

A volunteer for the North Massapequa Fire Department since 1989, Ludwig serves as a company lead engineer and department public information officer. He also sits on the department's training committee and is an elected member of its board of directors. Since 1990, he has worked for the Town of Oyster Bay in the Public Information Office, acting as a liaison between town officials and the public. Ludwig began his career as a reporter for local newspapers after graduating from Stony Brook University and Farmingdale High School.

"I love this community," he added. "I've spent my whole life here, and I'm excited and honored that I am now in a position where I can play an active role in providing quality water service to the district."

Ludwig resides in North Massapequa with his wife Bonnie and their two sons, Kyle, 3 and Connor, 1.

For more information, contact the South Farmingdale Water District: 40 Langdon Road, Farmingdale, NY 11735. Phone: 249-3330.

SEPT. 2006

Farmingdale School District has a new superintendent.

The Farmingdale School District is pleased to announce the appointment of John Lorentz, former assistant superintendent for business, as the new superintendent of schools. Lorentz's appointment took place during a board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 8 and became effective immediately. He has worked in the Farmingdale School District for five years.

"Each one of the assistant superintendents was unquestionably qualified to fill the position, and each brought different areas of expertise to the job," stated Farmingdale School District Board of Education President Shari Bardash-Eivers. "However, as the district's business official, John Lorentz has gained an overall perspective of school operations and developed an organizational view of the district and its workings. He has had effective dealings with the board, fellow administrators, teachers, staff, community groups, and individuals. He is able to deliver both good and bad news, and is always searching for better and innovative ways to handle the district's challenges."

Lorentz has been an administrator for Long Island school districts since 1988. He has overseen and managed various programs and departments, developed budget plans, devised and promoted successful bond referendums and maintained school district relationships with the State Education Department. He has also served as president of the Suffolk County Association for Business Officials and is currently a member of the New York State Association for School Business Officials and the Nassau County Association for School Business Officials. Lorentz became certified as a school business administrator in 1991 and a school district administrator in 1993. He received his bachelor of science degree from New York Institute of Technology Old Westbury and his master of business administration and professional diploma in school district administration from Long Island University's C.W. Post College.

Over the past several years, Lorentz has been an active participant in a number of Farmingdale School District programs and activities. Among his greatest contributions are his involvement in the Facilities Advisory Committee, Leadership Cohort, annual Farmingdale Reads event and Farmingdale Community Summit. On his appointment as superintendent, Lorentz commented, "I am happy to take on a new role in the Farmingdale School District. I have always liked the fact that this district is so strongly connected to its community and is able to be a part of the Farmingdale Community Summit. I will continue to work closely with the board of education, administration and community in providing our students with an excellent education."

TNR Program for Stray and Feral Cats Arrives in Farmingdale.

Joseph F. Rachiele, Deputy Mayor of The Incorporated Village of Farmingdale is pleased to announce the arrival of The Long Island Cat Project, a Trap, Neuter, Return Program (TNR) for cats. The objective of this program is to reduce the number of feral and stray cats through trapping, neutering/spaying and returning the cats where captured. In addition to the neutering and spaying, cats will be de-wormed, receive vaccinations for Rabies and Distemper, and ear tipped, the universal symbol identifying the cats as having been neutered. Cats that are candidates for adoption will be entrusted to adoption organizations. This program will be available throughout the entire Farmingdale area.
The proposed Farmingdale TNR program will be entirely funded by donations, which will purchase the needed supplies, traps and Veterinary care
On October 7, the Suffolk SPCA mobile spay/neuter van will
be located in the municipal parking lot behind Village Hall, offering low cost and/or free TNR services. Please make your tax deductible donation to the organization of your choice, who has agreed to offer low cost Veterinary care for the feral cats in Farmingdale, so that we are able to spay and neuter as many cats as possible in an effort to resolve this widespread problem.
1."LICKS" Long Island Cat Kitten Solution HUB for the LI Cat Project.
2. "PATS" People and Animals Team up Successfully.
Mail checks to: Village of Farmingdale –TNR Program
361 Main Street
Farmingdale, NY 11735
Att: Deputy Mayor, Joseph F. Rachiele
Low cost cat spay/neutering is always available for $50 at;
Island Rescue
1500 N. Clinton Ave
Bay Shore, NY 11706
(631)968-8700
Includes Rabies and FVRCP vaccination, no appointment necessary. Spay/Neuter Drop off Times; Saturday and Monday 8 to 9AM, Tuesday/Thursday/Friday 9 to 10AM. All cats must be secure in carrier, no food after 10 PM the night before surgery.
5th
Please, do not call Village Hall regarding this program. To report locations of stray/feral cats or to inquire about volunteering, please contact; "PATS" @ (631) 398-9604 or Email; FERALPATS@ YAHOO.COM.
Information regarding TNR and the Long Island Cat Project
www.alleycat.org
www.neighborhoodcats.org
www.myvetonline.com/drsenk (see newsletters)
www.suffolkspcs.org (regarding mobile spay/neuter van)

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   August 1, 2006

Mejias Announces Traffic Signal Improvements in Farmingdale

Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias (D-North Massapequa) is pleased to inform the residents of Farmingdale that the Nassau County Department of Public Works will modify the traffic signals on Main Street at the intersections of Marion Street and Fallwood Parkway. Mejias, Vice Chair of the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, was recently approached by the Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale with some complaints about these intersections, including congestion and numerous safety concerns.  At Legislator Mejias’s urging, the Department of Public Works initiated a traffic study and determined that modifications at this location are warranted and long overdue. “I am proud that my efforts have yielded results that will benefit the Farmingdale community,” Legislator Mejias said.  “These adjustments will not only improve the flow of traffic at this location, but will also enhance the safety of both motorists and pedestrians on these roads.”  Changes to the traffic signals are expected to include separate green lights for westbound Marion Street traffic and eastbound Fallwood Parkway traffic, as well as the removal of the flashing red indications on Main Street. Legislator Mejias stressed that residents should always present their concerns to their local elected officials.  “The CCAF has always kept me informed of the community’s concerns knowing that I always do my best to address them,” he said.  “I encourage all residents to do the same.

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Man Arrested for Stabbing at Taco Grill in Farmingdale

The Eighth Squad of the Nassau County Police Department reported details of an assault that occurred at 8:40 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 6 in Farmingdale.

According to detectives, defendant Victor Cruz, 35, of Farmingdale entered Taco Grill, located at 505 Conklin St. and stabbed a male victim, 32, in the back with a knife. At that time, two men attempted to help the victim, but became involved in the struggle were also injured, police stated. The second male victim, 36, was stabbed on the right hand and the third male victim, 26, was stabbed on the right forearm, police state. The defendant fled the scene but was arrested at his residence approximately one hour later that morning. According to police, the three men are acquaintances from the Farmingdale area.

The three victims were transported to Nassau University Medical Center. Cruz was charged with three counts of Assault 2nd Degree and one count of Possession of a Dangerous Weapon 4th Degree and was arraigned in First District Court in Hempstead.

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Farmingdale man charged with stealing school computers

August 03, 2006

Using the online name 'Shopshark,' a Farmingdale man who worked as a technology consultant for the Sachem School District stole at least 19 computers and 10 valuable Internet network switches from the district then sold them on E-bay, state and local officials said today.

Donald W. Meritz stole and sold the computers from August to December last year, while working as a network engineer for the company Contemporary Computer Services of Bohemia, said Suffolk District Attorney Thomas Spota at a news conference with state Comptroller Alan Hevesi.

Meritz, 51, was arrested at home yesterday. One of the computers was found in his 13-year-old daughter's bedroom, said Spota and Hevesi.

'This is another sad chapter in the story of Suffolk County schools,' Hevesi said.

The investigation began in July of 2005 when the comptroller's office received a tip. Meritz sold one of the computers to an investigator from the comptroller's office and also a computer to an investigator with the district attorney, authorities said.

Meritz could not immediately be reached for comment at his home this afternoon. He pleaded not guilty this morning to one count of third-degree grand larceny in first district court in Central Islip.

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Controversial Sunrise "Seasons" Development gets green light from Town of Oyster Bay

for more than 200 housing units on Sunrise Highway in Massapequa has been approved by the Town of Oyster Bay, moving the project one step further to becoming a reality. The Town approved a change of zone for The Seasons Residential Development from R1-7 (one-family residence) to RMF-16 (multifamily dwelling), which will allow construction of 128-multifamily residences, 54 townhouse units and 30 next generation dwellings. This change will allow 16 units per acre, as opposed to one-family homes on a minimum of 7,000 square feet per home. The initial hearing was held on January 24.

The applicant, Engel Burman Group at Massapequa and WSNCHS East Inc. also known as The Long Island Home, received another change of zone approval June 8 across Sunrise Highway where 308 senior residences will be built. That zone was changed from a R1-7 (one family) to RPH-25 (Golden Age District). This property is part of the 30 acres that Lowe's sold after its application to build a retail store there was turned down.

It is the impact of both new developments that has raised the concern of Massapequans. Some local leaders have said the 16.619 acre development on Sunrise Highway between Louden Avenue and Carmans Road in East Massapequa will add traffic and congestion to an already congested area.

"Residents and community leaders are concerned because this area is already notorious for traffic and accidents which will increase with this development," said Wally D'Amato, president of the Nassau Shores Civic Association. "We do need the next generation and senior housing, but not in this area."

Others, such as the Long Island Housing Partnership, believe that the Next Generation and Golden Age housing are a much-needed component to the Town. According to L.I. Housing, they already have a waiting of list of 1,812 residents.

Phyllis Barry, a spokeswoman for the Town of Oyster Bay, said the plan still requires a sub-division approval from the Nassau County Planning Commission, before a construction date can be set.

In other news the Town approved:

the operation to acquire and demolish an existing business at 103 Broadway to convert to a park is in full swing. As of March 14, the firm Cashin Associates PC, has begun paperwork to acquire the 13,254 square foot land at 103 Broadway, now the home to Broadway Automotive and an abandoned ice cream stand.

Last year the Massapequa property, bounded on the north by Sunrise Highway, on the west by Hicksville Road and on the east by Broadway, was rezoned by the Town of Oyster Bay from a general business to a neighborhood business district because neighbors were concerned a larger establishment could open.

Since that time, the Town looked at several options in addressing concerns about the condition of the site. In the end, it decided to turn it into a park, which Town officials said would be a "gateway" into the community. No date for condemnation or redevelopment has been set.

=========================================================

State signs $20M deal for management of Republic

The New York State Department of Transportation has signed a five-year, $20 million contract with a San Francisco-based company that will provide maintenance and operations services at Republic Airport in Farmingdale. The deal was announced by the company, URS Corporation, June 20.

Gary V. Jandegian, president of the company's EG&G Division, said URS would be responsible for managing the airport, including its operations and maintenance, as well as heading up Republic's business development services "to foster continued financial growth for Republic.

"This contract award reflects our competitive strength and ability to leverage our extensive experience in operations and maintenance, as well as the URS Division's engineering design and program management services we deliver at airports around the country," he said.

Prior to April 1, Republic was managed by another company, Avports, which is operating as a consultant to URS according to Michael Geiger, Republic's airport director.

"URS has been on site since April 1 and was one of three firms that responded to the states request for proposals. Despite the change in company's, Geiger said he did not anticipate any change in the way in which the airport operates.

"There might be something different, but for the most part they will manage the airport and keep it going the way it has been done in the past."

This contract for services at Republic represents URS' entry into airport operations and maintenance services market. The company offers a comprehensive range of professional planning and design systems engineering and technical assistance, construction management as well as operations and maintenance for a number of industries in addition to transportation, including, environmental, water/wastewater, homeland security, installations and logistics and defense system.

The company also provides operations and maintenance services in support of military. In June it also announced that it had received an engineer and construction services contract from the Air Force for a new 60,0000 square-foot corrosion control hanger and a 20,0000 square-foot

maintenance facility for C-17 transport aircraft at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. The Air Force expects construction to begin in December and the contract is worth up to $42 million, according to the company.

URS operates in more than 20 countries and has approximately 29,400 employees. Its revenue for 2005 was listed in its annual report as $3.9 billion and its operating income was listed at $174 million. It is a publicly traded ompany and the stock is trading around just under the 52-week high.

Babylon Town Supervisor Steve Bellone said he was unaware of the deal, and that the Town's Attorney would be looking into it, including filing for a copy of the contract. Specifically, he said, he wants to know what responsibilities URS will have, and whether the contract portends additional growth at the airport, something the town has opposed without the airport completing a Master Plan with input from the community.

The New YorkState Department of T ransportation is acting on a request from the Post, Record and Beacon for a copy of the contract with URS but it was not available at press time.

In related matters, Geiger said that the airport is continuing in its efforts to form a community group of citizens and officials that can work with the airport in addressing issues and concerns. Already a list of people has been developed and many have accepted the offer said Geiger, who anticipates that the group will be holding its first meeting some time in the fall. "With the summer season and people away and on vacation, things are slow," said Geiger, who added that he also wants to recontact some people who were sent letters and have not as yet responded.

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Legislator Gonsalves Introduces Mark Sattler Law
Law to Operate Off-Road Vehicles on Public Properties to Be Outlawed

Legislator Norma Gonsalves (R-East Meadow) filed recently a new local law which will regulate, strengthen penalties and empower law enforcement to seize and impound off-road vehicles, motor scooters and all-terrain vehicles.

The new law named The Mark Sattler Law is in memory of Mark Sattler, 12, of Levittown who died of massive internal injuries after an upstate ATV crash on April 29, 2005.

According to state police, the Island Trees Middle School student was driving the ATV with his 24-year-old brother riding as a passenger when he lost control of it and went off the road. Police said the ATV hit a dirt embankment and then several trees.

The law would make it illegal to operate off-road vehicles on Nassau County property and other publicly owned property such as shopping center parking lots, school yards and public parks. In addition, the law strengthens penalties for the improper use of these vehicles by increasing fines for violations of existing restrictions, and imposes new fines for the new restrictions. It also empowers law enforcement to seize and impound these vehicles when used in violations of the law.

"There are too many off-road vehicles today that are being used by unlicensed young people whose safety is always at risk," stated Legislator Gonsalves. The numbers of accidents and serious injuries have been increasing over the last five years. "Parking lots, schools, fields and shopping centers are not the place for these vehicles. They are not only a weapon in the hands of a young person but also a possible menace for passing motorists and pedestrians," continued Gonsalves.

According to a representative at the Nassau County Police Department's Highway Division ATV and off-road vehicle usage has always been illegal on roadways. New York State vehicle and traffic law states the use of ATVs is prohibited on any highway or public land.

It has been reported that 40 percent of related injuries between 2000 and 2005 were suffered by young persons 15 years old and under.

Legislator Dave Mejias (D-North Massapequa) has long since been a proponent of enforcing a zero tolerance approach for anyone illegally using an ATV. According to a local law authored by Legislator Mejias and approved by the legislature last year, anyone caught riding an ATV in Nassau County on public roads or land can be fined up to $500 and police can impound the vehicle.

"It is no longer an accident waiting to happen. It already has. If you operate an ATV on any Nassau County road or in our parks or preserves, you are breaking the law," Mejias said in February after another deadly ATV accident.

The law filed by Gonsalves with the Nassau County Clerk to the legislature should be reported to various legislative committees and a full vote is expected.

=========================================================

Ten years ago, Farmingdale State University of New York was a sleepy college of aging brick buildings, mostly two-year students, and limited academic distinction.

'I remember the first time I was here, I walked into the library and asked the librarian, 'Is the school in recess?' ' state Sen. Charles J. Fuschillo (R-Merrick) said yesterday. 'There wasn't much life here.'

But the school now has 6,375 students, most of them in four-year programs, and yesterday it got a major boost with $21.7 million in state money, most of it intended for a new student center.

Speaking to faculty, students, Fuschillo and school supporters outside Thompson Hall, built in 1938, Farmingdale president Jonathan Gibralter said the school was badly in need of a central place for students to gather. He said he hoped the planned building would become 'the hub of campus activity.'

'This facility will replace a building that was never designed to be a student union,' he said. The current student union is in a building once used as a gymnasium.

The new union, which is expected to take up between 75,000 and 100,000 square feet, will house a lounge, an amphitheater, a lecture hall, and food court. It comes on the heels of several major campus improvements. In the past five years, the school has expanded its degree programs, built a bioscience research park, and opened a new dormitory with room for more than 400 students. A $2.5-million, 1,000-seat baseball stadium is scheduled to be completed in 2008.

Of the $21.7 million, $1.7 million will be set aside for Farmingdale's public dental hygiene clinic, which serves about 3,000 residents a year.

The surrounding area has 'a real need for these services,' said Assemb. Robert Sweeney (D-Lindenhurst) after the ceremony.

The new student center, which does not have a final design yet, will be near the center of campus in an area now occupied by parking lots. 'The master plan study said this location was central to the major paths of travel,' said John Dzinanka, Farmingdale's physical plant director. 'It will serve as a visual gateway to the school.'

Groundbreaking is not expected for at least a year and a half following a public bid process

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Gerard F. McCormack Sr., a 50-year veteran of the North Massapequa Fire Department and a longtime commissioner of the South Farmingdale Water District, died Tuesday from congestive heart illness. He was 76.

McCormack was born and raised in Ozone Park, Queens. He attended John Adams High School and tried out with a Yankees farm team, the Bronx Bombers, while still a teenager. After a stint in the Army, where he worked in domestic counter-intelligence during the Korean War, he worked for Fairchild Republic and as a blueprint draftsman with Grumman Aerospace Corp. He contributed to the design of the first lunar landing module.

McCormack met his future wife of 52 years, Patricia, in church in Richmond Hill, Queens. The couple moved to North Massapequa in 1954 to start a family, according to McCormack's son Dennis of North Massapequa.

McCormack joined the North Massapequa Fire Department in 1956. During his time with the department, McCormack held many different positions, serving as chief from 1972 to 1974. He joined the South Farmingdale Water District in 1984 and served as a commissioner for the past 20 years.

McCormack also remained active in the fire department as a member of the fire police squad.

'He was a fixture out there, directing traffic at fire scenes, until just a few months ago,' Dennis McCormack said.

During his time with the fire department, Dennis McCormack said his father was proud of his work as one of the first operators of a new emergency call center.

'In a sense it was pioneering, back when 911 calls went straight to the fire department,' Dennis McCormack said.

In addition to his wife and son, McCormack is survived by three other sons, John of North Massapequa, Brian of Ronkonkoma and Gerard Jr. of Hicksville; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A viewing will take place from 2 to 4:30 p.m. and 7 to 9:30 p.m. today at Chapey and Sons Funeral Home in Bethpage. A special memorial service for fire department members is scheduled for 8 p.m. The funeral will be at 9 a.m. tomorrow at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Charles Cemetery in East Farmingdale.

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Construction halted at Republic

June 23, 2006
Plans to expand hangar space at Republic Airport have been temporarily halted after Town of Babylon officials were granted a restraining order to stop construction.

The State Supreme Court earlier this month handed down the order, which expires Monday and could be extended. It's the town's latest attempt to prevent expansion at the East Farmingdale airport. The town is demanding the airport release a master plan detailing future development, and plans to try to extend the injunction until the airport complies.

"We're flying blind with all of this development and we have no idea where we're going to end up," Babylon Supervisor Steve Bellone said.

Michael Geiger, director of Republic Airport, which is owned by the state Department of Transportation, said a master plan is not legally required but the proposed expansion could increase business. About 70,000 planes landed at Republic in 2005, Geiger said.

The proposal calls for the addition of 35,000 square feet to hangar two; the construction of a 51,500-square-foot hangar next to hangar one; 13,500 square feet of office space; and a new parking lot.

If no further judicial action is taken, Geiger said construction could begin within the next two weeks if the plan is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration in that time.

Last year, Talon Air built a new hangar at Republic.

Bellone said a master plan, in addition to public hearings, would keep residents better informed of changes affecting the community. The airport extended its public comment period on the latest hangar proposal to the end of May.

Airport officials say Babylon has fought Republic over development since the 1940s. Babylon has spent more than $300,000 on lawsuits to prevent the new hangars, Bellone said.

In court papers filed by the state last year when Babylon tried unsuccessfully to block another hangar project, the state alleged Babylon's repeated attempts to block the airport might stem from the state's objections to a proposal to build a Stew Leonard's dairy store across Route 110 from the airport. Babylon officials approved the store for the tax revenue it would bring the town. The state cited safety concerns since the store would be located within Republic's runway protection zone. Litigation is pending, delaying the project.

Geiger said the airport was forming a new committee of Babylon, Huntington and Oyster Bay town and civic organizations to address community concerns.

==========================================================

Environmental clean up of Liberty site moving along
by Tiffany Elliott June 15, 2006

Plans to clean up the former Liberty site in Farmingdale have been moving slowly but coming together, according to N.C. Leg. Dave Mejias (D-Massapequa). On March 16 Mejias held a community forum with officials from the United States Environmental Protection Agency, to inform the public about cleanup efforts on the 30-acre site at 55 Motor Avenue, which has been declared a Superfund Clean up site.

"Things are finally moving," Mejias told the community which has been waiting for years for action on the clean up and now the project has a time frame for completion.

"Obviously we still have concerns even though we're glad that the pace has quickened on the cleanup," he said.

The EPA expects to be completely finished by the end of 2008 with the Liberty location that was listed a Superfund site more than 20 years ago. The EPA began cleanup in 1982. The site once housed 12 industries including an airplane parts manufacturing and a fiberglass plant that officials said caused the pollution.

Since 2004, the EPA continued with on-site and off-site groundwater remediation so that pollution is contained and does not contaminate the underground drinking water. The final phase is scheduled to start in May 2007, and is scheduled to be finished by November 2008, which will include the installation of a groundwater treatment system that is expected to operate for 20 years.

The EPA said that in early March 2006 they tested 15 homes, and seven locations in the Woodward Parkway Elementary School were sampled. Based on the results, a decision will be made as to whether they should continue with indoor air testing or expand the vapor intrusion investigation- the latter which would determine the status of a polluted mist from the underground plume they discovered in December of 2004.

The vapors, that move through the soil and seep through cracks in basements, foundations and sewer lines, is a health concern because the vapors can build up to a point where any occupant's health can be at risk.

In addition, 2,600 yards of sediment to be excavated from "Pond A" in the Massapequa Preserve is scheduled to take a year to complete. Work will begin February 2007, and is targeted for completion in February 2008.

Approximately 73,100 cubic yards of soil will be cleaned up between November 2006 May of 2008, the level of which will exceed groundwater protection cleanup levels, according to EPA site manager Lorenzo Thantu.

The EPA projects to have the subsurface features remediation, that will begin in September of 2006, completed by November 2008; this includes, in part, removal of pollution in underground tanks.

Three rundown buildings on the property that are rented to businesses or for storage by property owner Jefrey Rosemarin have been taken down because they were deemed unsafe by the Supreme Court, according to Mike Grello, president of the Concerned Citizens of Farmingdale who said another will be demolished this month.

In addition, the Town of Oyster Bay has just entered into negotiations to buy an additional seven acres of the site, which will become part of the 15.6-acres Ellsworth Allen Park, next door. They had already purchased 14.03 acres in 2004, all of which will be an addition to the parkland.

Not everyone however, is impressed with the new schedule.

"Every time the EPA holds a meeting, the timeframe moves back six months to a year," complained Grello.

Additionally, the Massapequa Water District, which has maintained concerns about the pollution and its potential threat to the water supply, declined to commend on the recent moves, citing the fact that they are currently in a lawsuit against the EPA and other responsible parties.

The town is still considering a controversial application for a Stop & Shop and gas station, according to Town of Oyster Bay spokesperson Phyllis Barry who said there was no time frame for a decision. Citizens for a New Liberty, a group of residents who want the new Stop & Shop built could not be reached for comment by press time.

A cost has not been determined. That will not be done until the EPA decides on the type of cleanup needs that will be done on the entire polluted site.

===================================================

Village Homeowner Charged with Arson

Allegedly Set Houseon on Fire After Fire Violation Notices Issued

By Jaime L. Tomeo The Arson/Bomb Squad of the Nassau County Police Department reported details for an arson made in connection with a house fire that occurred on Friday, June 16 at 4:15 p.m. in the Village of Farmingdale.

According to detectives, at approximately 1:40 p.m. on June 16, Village of Farmingdale Code Enforcement Officers affixed a notice of violation to 379 Staples St. for three separate violations. Subsequently, at approximately 4:15 p.m., a fire occurred at the same location, to which the Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office and the Arson/Bomb Squad responded. After investigation it was determined that an ignitable liquid had been poured in the living room of the residence and ignited, setting the house on fire.

After the investigation, John Yanoscik, 47, of the same address, was arrested and charged with Arson 3rd Degree in connection with the fire. The Farmingdale Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire, which caused extensive damage.

Nearby resident Joseph Borchers said it is important to mention how professional and brave all emergency personnal performed at the fire.

"I saw one Suffolk County Police officer getting people away, and at one point he even went right up next to the burning structure to get someone away," he said. "I also watched Nassau County Police do the same. The firefighters were the most noteworthy though. The heat was overbearing and they walked right into the flaming home to put the fire out. They were all very good and selfless."

Subsequently the Village of Farmingdale condemned the building, which will be demolished. Yanoscik was arraigned on June 17 in First District Court.

============================================================

Male-female team robs Farmingdale bank

Woman demands cash at gunpoint at Commerce Bank and flees in getaway car driven by accomplice
June 9, 2006

Suffolk detectives are looking for a Bonnie and Clyde-like duo who robbed a bank in Farmingdale.

Police say a woman with brown hair in a ponytail and fake long, yellow painted fingernails walked into the Commerce Bank at 2025 Broad Hollow Rd. about 3:30 p.m. Wednesday and asked a customer service agent to open an account.

The suspect was then taken to a desk. "That's when she announced the robbery," said Det. Sgt. Robert Doyle of the Major Case Investigations Unit.

Doyle said the woman, described as being in her late 30s to early 40s, exposed a gun she had tucked in the waistband of her dark-colored pants and made a demand for cash.

The customer service representative complied with the demand and turned over an undisclosed sum of cash from the bank's vault. Money in hand, the suspect fled the bank and escaped in an older-model Toyota Camry driven by a man described as 27 to 33 years old and 6-foot-1 to 6-foot-2.

There were no reported injuries during the robbery, and customers didn't even know there was a bank robbery in progress, Doyle said.

The car fled northbound, and as of yesterday afternoon no arrests had been made. Doyle said the robbery is the only active case involving a female robber in the county. One of the last high-profile female robbers was Bernadette Mile, of Farmingville, who was arrested and charged with robbing three Suffolk banks in December 2004 - supposedly because she needed money for Christmas presents for her family and to pay rent. She will first be eligible for parole in March 2007, according to state records.

A month before Mile, a Holtsville man had attempted his own Bonnie and Clyde heist - holding up a Centereach bank in rouge, pink lipstick and a red wig. Peter Kleckowski later received a 3- to 6-year sentence.

Doyle said that anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers at 800-220-TIPS. The woman is described as having a medium build and wearing a navy blue visor with a Yankees logo on it and an Aasic brand navy blue windbreaker with white stripes down the side. The male accomplice wore a black hooded sweater.

There was no indication that the couple had robbed any other banks.

===============================================================

Farmingdale Village Approved Building Moratorium

A six-month moratorium on building in the Village of Farmingdale was approved by the board of trustees at their June 5 monthly meeting.

The decision, met by applause from a crowded board room, will halt the issuance of building permits for the construction of new and expanded buildings, demolition permits for buildings, subdivision approvals and variances related to lot area, lot dimensions or setbacks for new buildings in commercial and residential areas.

Proposed changes to commercial and residential structures that do not increase its square footage or parking demands will not be included in the moratorium, which was the first recommendation by the Vision Long Island team after February's week-long visioning process.

Applicants currently tied up in the permit process who wish to proceed will have to submit a letter of hardship to the village and have their case heard before the board.

"The first thing that needs to happen during a moratorium is to take stock or inventory of the problem," Village Attorney Kevin Walsh said.

According to Mayor George Graf, the village should have a definitive number of how many homes are susceptible to being demolished and the land split between multiple dwellings.

"We have been concerned about this since we took office," he added. "What we want to see come of this is a much more heightened sense of what we would like to see in the village."

Echoing each other's sentiments village residents addressed the board on their support of a moratorium.

"I would firmly like to see this passed," Chuck Gosline said.

Lou Cantone, who lives on Nelson Street, said the building "is very congested and out of control."

"Farmingdale is going to become like Queens Village soon," he added.

The scarcity of parking when additional homes are added to a residential street was another hot button issue.

"I want to be able to park in front of my house when I come home," Bob Callahan said. "It's one of the unwritten laws of suburbia."

Two Duane Street residents who have recently seen land subdivided on their block mentioned concerns about overcrowding the schools.

"My son doesn't even have a locker when he goes to Howitt next year," one woman said.

Frank Gatto suggested the board consider forming committees or focus groups during the moratorium process to keep residents involved and updated.

Not every attendee shared the crowd's overall sentiment of support for the moratorium. A Farmingdale resident and builder said it would have a negative impact to the community.

"I work in concert with this community and this board," he said. "I have eliminated four illegal two-family houses, two boarding houses and brought up the value of Rose Street."

He said the addition of new homes and businesses bring increased tax revenue and clean up blighted areas of the village.

After doubting any member of the board was an expert on moratoriums, he said "an economic impact study should be completed before voting."

The board closed the public hearing and unanimously voted in favor of a six-month moratorium. There is a provision in the Local Law 1 2006 that enables the moratorium to be extended for two three-month periods if the board sees necessary.

"This is going to help us manage the situation from here on in," Mayor Graf said.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 10 at 7 p.m. At that meeting Eric Alexander and the Vision Long Island group will present a formal review and update of the village's master plan.

==================================================================

3 Killed When Limo, Mercedes Collide

June 12, 2006

BETHPAGE, N.Y. -- Three people were killed and one injured when a stretch limousine and a Mercedes sedan collided early Sunday morning, Nassau County police said.

The crash occurred on Quaker Meeting House Road in Bethpage at 3:15 a.m., police said.

Police said the driver of the limo, Anthony Verdecchia, 41, of Plainview, was alone in his car when he collided with the Mercedes driven by Don Bonifazio, 31, of Plainview. Verdecchia was pronounced dead at the scene. Bonifazio died at the Nassau University Medical Center. A passenger in his car, Wayne Forman, 33, of Greenlawn, also died at the hospital, about eight hours after the accident.

A passenger in Bonifazio's car was listed in stable condition.

=================================================================

White Woman: Black Man Threw Concrete At Me At L.I. Mall

June 6, 2006

MASSAPEQUA, N.Y. -- A white woman said she was in shock after a black man threw a 10-inch chunk of concrete at her sport utility vehicle in what police were labeling a hate crime.

Kim McCandless, of West Islip, was driving to the Sunrise Mall in Massapequa on Monday with her two daughters, a niece and a nephew, all between 7 months and 4 years old, when the concrete struck her windshield. No one was injured.

McCandless said she made eye contact with the attacker before he threw the concrete.

"I was in shock," she said. "I didn't understand why. Why me, why my kids, why my car?"

Carl Graves, of Amityville, threw the concrete at the SUV because the driver was white, Nassau County police Detective Lt. Karl Schoepp said. Graves and two friends were in the mall for a couple of hours Monday morning and were upset that the arcade and the movie theater were closed, Schoepp said.

He said Graves, 20, told police "the mall had become too white."

McCandless said she got out of the car, wanting "to scream," and checked on the children, who were crying. She said the men laughed as they walked away.

"I have four kids to raise, and it's really scary that I have to worry about where they go shopping or where they do whatever, because I'm a different color than that person," she said.

Graves was ordered held on $10,000 bond after being arraigned Tuesday on charges of criminal mischief, reckless endangerment and menacing as a bias crime.

There was no telephone listing for Graves in Amityville. The district attorney's office did not immediately return a phone message or a page seeking information on whether Graves had an attorney.

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Babylon calls to order, June 5, 2006

The Unified Court System and the Town of Babylon are launching a community court designed to handle violations of town ordinances that affect quality-of-life issues.

The court will be run by the state, out of the Suffolk County Second District Court, located on East Hoffman Avenue in Lindenhurst. Patrick Barton, a district court judge, will take on the role of presiding judge of Babylon Community Court.

The court will launch in July, said Babylon Communications Director Vanessa B. Streeter. She added that cases will be heard in the community court once a week.

Streeter said the new court will allow Babylon to push its quality of life issues through the system faster than before, when “in district court, cases have been there for 10 years.”

Last year, the state Unified Court System filed suit to close down Babylon’s Bureau of Adjudication, a town-run court it created to handle nuisance violations. The suit contended that Babylon didn’t get needed legislative approval to set up the court.

Streeter said the Unified Court System and Babylon then negotiated a settlement, which led to the new community court to be run by the state. With the establishment of the new court, the town will cease operations of its Adjudication Bureau.

=================================================================

Schools Probed on Violence Data

05/22/2006

New York State schools may be involved in a major cover-up of school violence, according to State Comptroller Alan Hevesi.

Hevesi says 15 New York school districts, including three on Long Island, failed to report incidents of violence, required under the Safe Schools Against Violence in Education Act of 2000.

The comptroller’s office is currently auditing the State Education Department (SED) after reviewing documented incidences of violence compared to the number actually reported.

Brentwood, Hempstead, and Uniondale were school districts audited by Hevesi in the fall of 2005. The school violence numbers were skewed in all three districts.

In Brentwood, 357 incidents were documented, but only 87 were reported, according to a statement from Hevesi. Hempstead and Uniondale, however, had fewer incidents documented than reported, making it difficult to determine if all incidents reported were reportable.

“SED is failing to manage the school violence reporting program effectively, and some school districts are not reporting accurate information,” Hevesi said in a statement. “As a result, it is harder to accurately determine where and what kinds of resources need to be provided to help prevent school violence. ”

Brentwood Superintendent Les Black says that if anyone is responsible, it is the state department for not giving directions and training for dealing with documentation of incidents.

“You ask for it and we’ll give it to you,” says Black.

Uniondale officials claim they have acted appropriately and have not been cited for any wrongdoing.

“The Uniondale Union Free School District has always and will continue to react in the most proactive manner possible when an incident occurs which might jeopardize the safety of its students,” said Uniondale Superintendent William Lloyd in an e-mailed statement. “This includes immediate communication with the proper necessary officials.”

stead representatives were unavailable for comment.

Hevesi says the districts cover up their data in an attempt to avoid embarrassment and humiliation. Until incidents are reported correctly, government officials will not have the answers.

“We can’t fix this problem if we don’t have the information,” Hevesi says. “[The Safe Schools Against Violence in Education Act] is a good law. We cannot have an education system that functions with violence.”

===================================================================

Bank robbery arrest made

A North Amityville man has been arrested by Suffolk County Police and charged in connection with the robbery of the State Bank of Long Island, which occurred on the morning of May 11.

On Friday, June 2, police spotted Fredrick Williams, 32, driving a 1997 Honda that had been wanted in connection with several bank robberies. Police stopped the car and arrested Williams for operating the car with a revoked license and notified Major Case detectives.

Investigators determined that Williams was allegedly responsible for robbery the State Bank of Long Island on 27 Smith Street in Farmingdale on May 11. In that robbery, Williams entered the bank, pulled a black semi-automatic pistol and demanded cash from a female teller.

Williams is charged with one count of robbery in the first degree. He has also been implicated in another three bank robberies in Nassau County, police said.

====================================================================

The Town of Babylon's first Park Ranger. 5-23-2006 

The Town of Babylon recently installed Karl Chin as the first Park Ranger in the Town of Babylon's history.  Park Rangers protect park resources and the residents who patronize them by enforcing all local and state laws and ordinances pertaining to parks.  Ranger Chin will operate under the auspices of the Public Safety Department and he will have the power to issue summons and make arrests for violations of the law

=======================================================

Merrick Road Improvement Project

Nassau County Legislator Peter J. Schmitt recently announced that the County Legislature has approved the contract for major streetscape improvement on Merrick Road in Massapequa.

The $760,000 improvement is slated for a two-block stretch of Merrick Road, from Seaford Avenue to Hicksville Road. "This project includes the installation of concrete curbs, sidewalks, brick pavers, decorative lighting, benches, trash receptacles and incidental work," said Legislator Schmitt. "It represents an investment by Nassau County in our community and I am proud to have secured the project for this area."

Work is scheduled to commence in early June and should be completed in 120 days.

================================================================================

Hofstra clinic sues, saying Farmingdale officials don’t want Latino immigrants to live in community

BY BART JONES

Newsday Staff Writer

May 26, 2006

Capping a years-long battle over Farmingdale's "Little Latin America," Hofstra University Law School's housing clinic filed a discrimination lawsuit against the village yesterday, alleging that officials don't want Latino immigrants living in the community.The suit alleges that the village, along with the owner of an apartment building at 150 Secatogue Ave., and Commack-based Fairfield Properties, which the suit alleges wants to buy the building, are carrying out a plan to turn the 54-unit building into upscale housing. The building is at the heart of Farmingdale's Latino section.Village officials dismissed the allegations in the suit as absurd. They said a redevelopment plan for the 6.7-acre area in central Farmingdale where the building is located is aimed at refurbishing a blighted zone and increasing the tax base. Officials also dismissed an allegation in the suit that the village does not want Latino immigrants living there."I can state unequivocally that is not the case -- nowhere near," said Village Clerk David Smollett. He said the suit was "totally unjust and unwarranted" and was "just stirring up the pot."

According to Hofstra Law School professor Stefan Krieger, village officials have placed parking restrictions around the building as "part of a policy and practice to make housing unavailable to the people who live there." Krieger is the director of the school's housing clinic, which is made up of law school students. The suit was filed in U.S. District Court in Central Islip on behalf of nine tenants.The building's owner, John Tosini, and Fairfield Properties, which the lawsuit alleges is interested in purchasing it, did not return telephone messages asking for comment on the suit.

Village officials have long considered the building an eyesore, and by tenants' own accounts it has been plagued by rats, mold, exposed electrical wires, broken radiators, leaking ceilings and other problems.Krieger and local pro-immigrant groups said the building could be fixed and turned into a model for affordable housing.The lawsuit seeks to block the village from granting a building permit on the site and to prevent the owner from evicting tenants and terminating their leases.One tenant, Ely Chavez, 56, said he has lived in the building nine years and doesn't know where he would move if forced to leave. "The people want us to work for them, but they don't want us to live close to them," Chavez, a machine operator, said in Spanish.Speaking for the village, Smollett said he did not know where tenants would go if ultimately required to leave, but added, "I'm sure there are provisions that would be made to help them relocate. They're not going to be thrown out on the street, obviously."

Copyright 2006 Newsday Inc.

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APRIL 2006

The Officers of Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale would like to take this opportunity

to thank ALL the wonderful volunteers we have in our organization. Not only do they contribute

to the effectiveness of our civic group, but they make our job just a tad easier.

The newsletter you are reading is formatted and printed by Dave Crupnick. Four to Five times a

year Dave compiles our information and always presents an informative newsletter. It matters little

that Dave no longer lives in Farmingdale, he continues to print it up.

Mark Newman is another noteworthy volunteer. Mark updates our website (no easy task!) and

assists with the newsletter. Without both of these kind gentlemen we would not be able to keep

our members as well informed as we do.

Chuck and Rich Gosline serve on our Farmingdale Village Committee and keep CCAF abreast of

all the Village events and meeting updates. Both have been instrumental in bringing Vision Long

Island to the Incorporated Village of Farmingdale.Vision Long Island recently held several meetings

in the Village in an effort to update the Farmingdale Village Master Plan.We thank Rich and

Chuck for their commitment to our community.

POP Officer Paul Lomonica from the NCPD 8th Precinct is a frequent visitor to our meetings to

give community updates and tips to keep our families safe.We are grateful that he takes the time

out of his busy schedule to keep our members educated.

Our East Farmingdale-Republic Airport Committee is chaired by member Cheryl Longo. Cheryl

updates us concerning the business of the Airport.We thank Cheryl for her reports.

CCAF is continually looking for volunteers to join our existing committees and help in other areas.

If you think you could spare a little time and would like to assist in keeping our civic association

growing, please feel free to speak to a Board member OR email ccaf-civic@yahoo.com.

As a reminder, please keep current with your membership dues.Your dues help defray the cost of

the Newsletter, post office box, postage etc.

If we failed to recognize anyone for anything you have done, be it big or small, in support of CCAF,

we apologize.The Board sends their heartfelt gratitude to all our volunteers who give of themselves.

Without all of you,we would not be an effective civic association.

NEWS Reports

Farmingdale Board of Education News

At the March 1,2006 meeting of the Board of Education the Board vote was 5-2 in support of the new contract offered

the Farmingdale Federation of Teachers.The teachers had ratified said contract earlier that afternoon.The increase in the

teachers salary is as follows: 2% year one, 2.5% year two, 3% year three and 3.5%. Other than the raises there was no

change†from the previous contract.

This is an important time of year as the budget for the school year 2006-2007 will be proposed on Wednesday, March

15th. John Lorentz,Assistant Superintendent of Business, will be the guest at our April 27th meeting to present the budget

and take any questions from our members.The following schedule lists all important BOE:

March 15, 2006 Budget Workshop

March 22, 2006 Budget Workshop

March 29, 2006 Budget Workshop

April 5, 2006 Public Input

April 11, 2006 Adopt Budget for Voter Approval

April 25, 2006 Adopt BOCES Admin Budget

May 9, 2006 Public Hearing

May 16, 2006 Budget Vote and Election

CCAF urges all members to try and attend budget meetings as this is your time to have your voice heard. Remember

voting on the budget takes place on Tuesday, May 16th from 6am to 9pm at Howitt Middle School.

Farmingdale Village Vision Event 2/9 - 2/15/06

The FV Board sponsored a three day visioning process 2/9 -2/15/06.The event was facilitated by Vision Long Island

which helped to promote a vibrant discussion of residents interests and concerns.The entire three day event was an

engaging experience attended by over one hundred people. Opening night Thursday, 2/15 was a dialogue on the potential

of smart growth and a discussion as to residents hopes and horrors, Saturday was an all day event that included a

walking tour of the village, a graphic presentation survey and the creation of team projects as to the future potential of

the village On Wed 2/15 VLI presented a draft of their view based on data gathered as to the potential components of a

future Village Master Plan.

The question on many peoples mind was how and/or when will we discuss an implementation plan that can move

some of the good ideas forward? VLI stated that; first the plan update must be written by VLI estimated by June 2006,

then discussed and debated at future public hearings and only then voted on by the FV Board. Any implementation

would then be up to the village board to present.

More info and/or pictures of the event can be viewed on the Vision Long Island web-site.

Submitted 3/7/06 by: Chuck Gosline

CCAF FV Comm Co-chair

Immigrants to get safety gear

March 9, 2006

Many struggling Latino immigrants on Long Island don't have the money for a car, so they often rely on other means

of transportation: they walk, take buses or ride bicycles.

The problem is they place themselves in dangerous situations that sometimes result in accidents - some of them fatal.

According to the U.S. Census, Hispanics make up at least 10 percent of Long Island's population, but Nassau County

Legis. David Mejias said they accounted for 43 percent of pedestrian deaths in the county in 2002.

Yesterday, Mejias (D-North Massapequa), a local minister and Latino community leaders announced they are stepping

up a program to hand out free helmets and reflective vests to Latino immigrants.

"While most of us have the luxury of walking the short and safe distance out of our front door and into a nice warm

car to begin our commute to work, imagine the long, difficult journey many people must take to their jobs, riding bicycles

along busy, dangerous roads," Mejias said.

He and others, including the Rev.Allan Ramirez of the Brookville Reformed Church and Marianela Jordan, executive

director of Coordinated Agency for Spanish Americans, Nassau County's Hispanic services coordinating agency, gave

some of the equipment at a bicycle shop in Farmingdale. Mejias said the groups have collected 50 free helmets from

stores, including some in Suffolk, this year, and hope to increase that. In the first safety campaign he waged in late 2004,

they collected 60.The equipment will be distributed mainly by community organizations.

Tom Flanagan, the owner of Adventure Cycle & Sports, where the news conference was held, said the program "just

makes sense.We all look goofy in helmets. [But] if we can save one person's life,we did the right thing."

Mejias said that in 2004 in Nassau County, 487 bicycle/car accidents were reported, with two bike riders killed.

He said 87 percent of those injured in the accidents were not wearing helmets.

In a case in Suffolk County last summer, Jorge Sazo, 29, an immigrant from Guatemala, was hit by a Jeep as he

walked along a dimly lit patch of Route 111 in Central Islip. Suffolk police said the driver did not see Sazo until she

had already hit him.

One immigrant at the bicycle shop said he thought the program might help avoid similar tragedies. "I think it is

important what they are doing," said Melvin Acosta, 40, a native of Honduras who lives in Farmingdale. "We practically

don't have access to the bicycle equipment."

For his part, Ramirez urged immigrants to don the safety gear. "Don't be afraid to wear a helmet, even if you look

like Mike Dukakis," he quipped, referring to a well-known incident in 1988 in which the then-presidential candidate

wore an oversized military helmet as he drove a tank.

Ongoing Confusion Over Jurisdiction of Woods

The Friends of Massapequa Preserve are excited by the turnout and response at the Concerned Citizens

Association of Farmingdale meeting that focused on "the woods" along the Bethpage State Parkway.We thank everyone

who came to share their thoughts and concerns, and we certainly appreciate your paper's continuous reporting

on this important community issue.However, the story as reported in your Jan. 27, 2006 issue demonstrates the

ongoing confusion over jurisdiction, and who is responsible for maintenance and protection of "the woods." As the

guest speaker, I would like to clarify some of the information stated in the article.

The entire area is not "a Nassau County park on loan from New York State." Nassau County currently leases 31

acres of wooded land north of the Southern State Parkway and east of the Viceroy development, and classifies it as

"county parkland." This "Viceroy section," extends north along both sides of Massapequa Creek, from the back of

Farmingdale High School to the back of the Woodward Parkway Elementary School.The lease expires Feb. 28, 2007,

and on that date the land will revert to its owner, the New York State Department of Parks, unless something is done

before then. Both our group and the CCAF sent letters almost four years ago to Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi

requesting his assistance in securing this land and designating it as part of Massapequa Preserve.We have also met

with a number of local officials on this matter.As of this date,we have not achieved our goal, but we hope to.

The larger section of woods, the 3-mile corridor along both sides of the Bethpage State Parkway, has nothing to

do with Nassau County Parks; it is owned by New York State Parks, and maintained by the New York State

Department of Transportation as a parkway right-of-way. Over 50 public officials, and many groups and individuals,

have written to State Parks Commissioner Bernadette Castro, asking that both sides of the Bethpage State Parkway,

from Linden Street north to the Bethpage Traffic Circle, be designated as an undeveloped, passive-use state park, or

as an extension of Bethpage State Park.

I didn't say "give us the park and we will take care of it." I said that if you give us a park, we will see to it that

the agency responsible for the parcel does the job it is supposed to do I also said that we are tired of getting letters,

calls, and e-mails from frustrated citizens trying their best to find anyone in government who will assume

responsibility for what goes on in "the woods" and do something about it.

Richard Schary, president

Friends of Massapequa Preserve

Friends of Massapequa Preserve "More parks for Nassau" Sunday June 4th 1:00 pm

Join the Friends of Massapequa Preserve on a hike through the woods on both sides of the Bethpage Parkway

north of the† Southern State parkway, parallel to the Nassau-Suffolk Trail; explore Friends' proposal to declare these

long forgotten sections of woodland either part of an enlarged Massapequa Preserve, or an extension of Bethpage

State Park, children over ten years are welcome. Rain will cancel this outing.

The hike will be from Southern State Parkway exit 31N one mile to exit B2 Boundary Avenue. Park at Parkway

exit on Northwest Drive or in the CVS parking lot (caution there is no southbound exit for Boundary Avenue on

the Bethpage State Parkway).The hike will be about 3-4 miles†on easy flat land.

For more information call Rich Schary or Lisa Schary at (516) 826-8339.

Farmingdale‚ Project Cope Committee‚ Walk in the Woods‚ Saturday June 10th 2006

The purpose of this event is to create more community awareness of the wooded areas surrounding Farmingdale

High School. This area north of Southern State Pkwy is part of the NY State Park System and is managed by the

Nassau County Parks Department. (not part of the Massapequa Preserve) Concerns:

This space has been and is being used as a gathering space for many young people.The choices of behavior by

some are risks to both young people and the wetland preserve.

The area is also a dumping ground by adults/homeowners.

Storm water run-off and pollution from the Liberty Site have contributed to the decline of the wetlands.

Goals:

• Promote more community awareness to parents and young people to make better choices.

• Promote better stewardship for the long term health of this wetland

Project COPE, Friends of Massapequa Preserve and others will continue to focus attention to help reclaim the preserve

for families. Request NYS dedicate this land as part of the Massapequa Preserve.

WE NEED YOUR HELP

Join us on Sat June 10 th at Noon, FHS for a brief program to discuss ideas to help revitalize this natural wonder.After

which a guided tour‚ walk in the woods‚ will show you first hand the challenges and opportunities.

Call to students, school clubs, teachers, parents/PTA‚ & community groups to "Adopt-a-Spot"

We need your help, join Project COPE (a Health & Substance Education Committee made up of Farmingdale School

Staff, PTA and community residents) help us reclaim and revitalize this precious natural resource. Please contact Project

COPE Admin; 516 - 752 - 6665

Dear Members,

Our very sharp looking Golf Shirts with the CCAF logo are available now for $15.00.They come in large, extra large,

and double X-Large.

Also, for a limited time, and as part of our drive to increase membership in the CCAF,we are giving away one (1) Free

Golf Shirt with CCAF logo, when a member brings two (2) new, paid membership applications.

The complimentary gift shirt is our way of saying thank you for your effort to help this organization grow stronger and

continue its determination to maintain and improve the quality of life that concerns all of us.

There is strength in numbers and the CCAF would like to thank you in advance for your support in this membership drive!

Membership applications can be printed from our website [ http://www.ccaf-civic.org/ ]http://www.ccaf-civic.org/

DEC to Revisit Remediated Sites for Possible Contamination,

Seven Fa rmingdale Sites Included on List

Of the 400+ sites, approximately seven are located within Farmingdale, including Cantor Brothers, Inc., Circuitron

Corp. (82 Milbar Blvd.), Fairchild Republic Aircraft Main Plant (Broad Hollow Road), Fairchild Republic Aircraft Old Sump,

Liberty Industrial Finishing (55 Motor ave), Minmilt Realty (Hygrade Metal Moulding) and National Heatset Printing Co.

Grumman Aerospace and Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant in Bethpage were also on the list.

Before 2003, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) cleaned up contaminated sites

under certain set guidelines and to meet certain standards that they had at the time.

In late 2002, early 2003, research regarding vapor intrusion, which is the process by which volatile chemicals move

from a subsurface source into the indoor air of overlying or adjacent buildings, began to yield more information.

After learning about the new threats of vapor intrusion, DEC staff went through records of sites that the DEC was

involved with, either in an oversight or a managing capacity.The sites that were cleaned up prior to 2003 and where remedial

decisions had already been made, which include over 400 in New York State and approximately 80 on Long Island,

are now going to be prioritized and then addressed and evaluated for the potential of vapor intrusion.The process of prioritizing

the sites is expected to be completed by December, according to the DEC.

"All of the sites are going to be prioritized and we will be doing investigations based on sites that have the highest risk

potential and those will be addressed and investigated first," said Maureen Wren, public information officer for the DEC.

"Every site will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and if there is a need for DEC or Department of Health staff to conduct

indoor air quality tests, the homeowner, business owner or other property owner would be involved."

According to the DEC, they will ask the party responsible for contaminating the site to pay for and perform the vapor

intrusion evaluation, as well as any site investigations and the installation and long-term operation and monitoring of any

mitigation system which would be required. If the responsible party refuses to perform these activities, or if no viable entity

remains, the state will take responsibility for them, and will pursue cost recovery as in any Superfund site.This is the

same with groundwater contamination.

While unaware of the list's existence, South Farmingdale Water District Superintendent William Bier said he would

"most certainly" welcome the testing.

"We would work right along side of them," Bier said.

According to Bier the current water quality in South Farmingdale "meets all state and federal standards."

"We do quarterly testing as per the Nassau County and New York State Department of Health," Bier added.

East Farmingdale Water District Superintendent George Veilson said that while they have had problems in the past, the

water is also tested quarterly and "everything is fine."

In 2004 a new water treatment system was installed and is working properly to remove volatile organic compounds

caused from cleaning agents used on metal.

"Basically it's from all the metal work on all the old airplanes they used to make over there," Veilson said. "There is a

DEC decision that the owners of the property would have to pay for the system once any of the public water supply wells

were impacted by it and it took a while, but it happened now."

The 2005 water quality reports are expected to be published by May.

Residents are encouraged to call the following numbers for more information or with any questions: DEC general information

631-444-0204 and the Nassau County Department of Health's Drinking Water Department 571-3323.

More Information on Vapor Intrusion

According to the DEC's website, vapors can enter buildings in two different ways. In rare cases, vapor intrusion is the

result of groundwater contamination, which enters basements and releases volatile chemicals into the indoor air. In most

cases, vapor intrusion is caused by contaminated vapors migrating through the soil directly into basements or foundation

slabs.Although the DEC historically has evaluated soil gas pathways,improvements in analytical techniques and the knowledge

gained from remedial sites in New York and other states have increased their understanding of how vapor intrusion

occurs.

"Historically,we thought that vapor intrusion was only an issue where the source of the contaminants was very shallow

and the magnitude of the contamination was very great.We now know that our previous assumptions about the

mechanisms that could lead to exposure to vapor intrusion were not complete.The result is that additional work may be

required to investigate or remediate sites that are in the operational or monitoring phase, or that have already been closed.

Separate ranking systems have been developed to account for the two different sources of contaminated vapors. Because

we now recognize the need to take a different sampling approach, when the Department evaluates a site for vapor intrusion,

both sources can now be effectively considered," according to the NYSDECs website.

According to the DEC, the evaluation at a specific site will initially involve a review of existing environmental data to

see if sufficient information is already available to assess possible vapor impacts. If a vapor intrusion problem is suspected,

the DEC may recommend additional sampling, monitoring or mitigation actions.Additional sampling would be used to

determine the extent of soil vapor contamination and to verify their initial findings. Monitoring, or sampling on a recurring

basis, is typically conducted if there is a significant potential for vapor intrusion to occur if building conditions

change. Mitigation steps are intended to prevent exposures associated with soil vapor intrusion. Mitigation may include

sealing cracks in the building's foundation, adjusting the building's heating, ventilation or air-conditioning system to maintain

a positive pressure to prevent infiltration of subsurface vapors, or installing a sub-slab depressurization system

beneath the building. In most instances, mitigation of residential structures will require a sub-slab depressurization system,

according to the DECs website.

The DECs website further explains the testing process. "Subsurface vapor samples consist of both soil vapor samples

collected from the ground away from buildings (soil gas samples) and sub-slab soil vapor samples collected from immediately

beneath the foundation or slab of a building (sub-slab samples). Indoor air samples are collected from the basement

or crawlspace and from the lowest level of living space.We collect these samples primarily during the heating season,

because we believe that soil vapor intrusion is most likely to occur when a building's heating system is in operation

and air is being drawn into the building. Outdoor air samples are collected outside of the buildings, and are used to characterize

site-specific outdoor air background conditions.The length of a soil vapor investigation will depend on the data

that is collected during the investigation, and is only considered to be complete when all of the exposures and potential

exposures have been addressed."

Advisory committee announces proposed uses for $50 million environmental bond

Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi’s advisory committee of environmental and civic leaders Monday announced

proposed uses for the $50 million environmental bond issue that was overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2004.

The Environmental Program Advisory Committee was appointed by Suozzi to review 262 proposals for the funds. Of

those, the committee is recommending 57 projects, including acquiring 186 acres of open space, preserving two working

farms, improving parks throughout the county, cleaning up brownfields and protecting waterways and wetlands.

The committee’s recommendations must now be reviewed within the next 60 days by the Nassau County Planning

Commission and the Open Space and Parks Advisory Committee. They will then go to the County Executive and the

Legislature for final approval.

Among the 15 parcels of open space to be preserved are two of Nassau County’s few remaining working farms –

Meyers Farm in Woodbury,and Grossman’s Farm in Malverne,which is six acres.Twenty-five acres of the Boegner Estate

in Old Westbury and the 31 acres of the Pulling Estate in Oyster Bay Cove are also among the parcels slated for preservation.

About $38 million from the bond act is reserved for open-space preservation.

The county is working on conserving an additional 45 acres, for a total of 231 acres. Preserving open space not only

saves these parcels from development, it also protects the groundwater underneath.And county-acquired open space is

also available for public use.

Some $5.7 million is earmarked for the 18 parks recommended for improvement.The projects include construction of

a new playground and other facilities at Washington Avenue Park in Seaford; a football field at St. Francis Street Park in

Roosevelt; and construction of a soccer field and a cricket pitch at the Dutch Broadway Athletic Complex in Elmont.

Many of the 17 storm water improvement projects will help prevent pollutants in storm-water runoff from contaminating

Nassau County’s many waterways and wetlands.These projects, which will use about $4.4 million, include water

treatment at the Massapequa Preserve, Silver Lake Park in Baldwin, Mill Basin in Merrick and Meadowbrook Creek in

Freeport.Wetland plantings and removal of sediment is also recommended for Scudder’s Pond in Sea Cliff.

The seven brownfield clean-up projects, which will use about $1.9 million, include the demolition of an incinerator in

Long Beach and the remediation of contaminated properties in Wesbury and Roosevelt.

Environmentalists and county planners said there are about 5,000 undeveloped and unprotected acres of land in

Nassau.

Mechanic accused in sex abuse of teenage girl

March 1, 2006

What began as a "simple hello" between strangers grew into inappropriate kissing and touching by a West Hempstead

auto-body shop worker who repeatedly sexually abused a 13-year-old girl, Nassau police said yesterday.

The alleged abuse, which occurred in Farmingdale between January and June last year, was revealed Thursday when

the girl, now 14, told her parents. Her parents then called police.

Authorities said they are withholding the girl's identity because she is a victim of a sex crime.

On Monday, police arrested Victor A. Gutierrez, 53, of 23 Chamberlain Rd.,West Hempstead, on charges of endangering

the welfare of a child and first-degree and second-degree sexual abuse.

Gutierrez was ordered held in the Nassau County jail on bail of $50,000 bond and $25,000 cash at his arraignment yesterday

at First District Court in Hempstead.

"Their relationship began as just a simple hello," said Det. Lt. Ray Cote, commander of the Eighth Squad. "As time progressed,

this hello became more affectionate."

Gutierrez became acquainted with the girl about a year ago.The two would exchange greetings as the girl walked to

her school bus stop, passing Silverstar Auto Body on Main Street, where Gutierrez formerly worked, police said.

Over time, the friendly greetings turned into kisses, which became hugs, Cote said, adding that Gutierrez eventually

began giving the girl cash, jewelry and gifts.

In June, Gutierrez led the girl to the back of the shop, where he held her down, rubbed against her and touched her

inappropriately at least once, police said.

The girl's parents learned about the months-long abuse last week when they asked their daughter why she was afraid

to walk to the bus stop and she told them why, police said.

Stop & Shop in the news!

Accused of discriminatory pricing

Please Let Us Help You & Your Neighbors

If you have any suggestions or additions call or email!

DECEMBER 2005

One Voice is Heard . . . Many Voices are Listened To!

Home Invasions raise concern, as do year to date

Crime stats for the Eighth Precinct.

News reports about incidents of home invasions in Nassau and Suffolk counties have raised

fears for many residents.Others say worrying won’t help, while police have given the public some

simple ways of protecting themselves and their families.

There have been over 30 home invasions in Nassau County so far this year, nearly twice as many

as last year, according to the police. In Suffolk only three have been reported as per police. News

reports have erroneously stated that there have been 17 such incidents in Suffolk County.

In early October, a Beechwood Place resident in Massapequa found the stage set for a robbery

at his home. He awoke in the middle of the night to find a chair pushed up against an outside window

of his home, apparently ready to give a thief a “leg up.”

A week before, another home on Smith Street, Massapequa was robbed and two additional

homes were robbed on October 3, one on South Park Drive and the other on Biltmore Drive.An

October 9th break-in on Blacksmith Road in Levittown resulted in a homeowner being hit in the

head.

In Suffolk, a West Babylon woman and her daughter were terrorized by robbers who broke in

during the summer and ransacked her house. In this case, the homeowner had her jaw dislocated

and her wrist broken before they fled with money and jewelry.

Although no one is immune from such a crime, experts say there are ways to keep yourself and

your loved ones from becoming an easy target. Most of the area robberies have one thing in common,

the windows were left open with only the flimsy screen to protect the home, and in some

cases, doors were left unlocked.

The best way to protect yourself is to lock all windows and doors, (including your attached

garage) and close all curtains and blinds at night. Police also recommend the following:

• If you have a home alarm system check that it is working and keep it on, even if you‚Äôre

inside the house;

• Take photographs of your valuables, especially jewelry, to help police match them with any

items that may be recovered;

• Leave an outside light on, and leave one on in your home as well.Trim any tall hedges that may

allow concealment.

• Be aware of anyone who is knocking at your door or ringing your doorbell and know who is

there before you open your door;

• Be alert to anything unusual in your neighborhood and should you see a person or vehicle

that appears suspicious, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Above all, be alert when coming home at night because in some incidents the subjects have

forced their way into homes when the homeowner approached his or her front door.

If you become the victim of a home invasion, try to remain calm and cooperate with the

intruder, said police. By staying calm, you can become a better witness for the police when

they arrive.

Year to Date Crime Stats:

A look at the Eighth Precinct A look at the numbers for all of Nassau.

Murder down 50% Murder up 85%

Rape Down 50% Rape up 7.50%

Criminal sexual act up 150% Criminal sexual act† up 50.00%

Sexual abuse down 42.86% Sexual assault up 5.67%

Sexual assault down 15.38% N/A

Robbery other up 19.05% Robbery other up 20.15%

Robbery commercial up 9.09% Robbery commercial up 14.37%

Total Robbery up 15.63% Total Robbery up 18.43%

Assault felony up 2.38% Assault felony down 11.20%

Burglary residential down 36.08% Burglary residential 14.85%

Burglary commercial up 26.92% Burglary commercial up 20.90%

Stolen vehicle down 14.81% Stolen vehicle down 10.80%

Grand larceny up 19.44% Grand larceny Down 1.72%

All major crime reported down 1.06% All major crime reported down 3.05%

All other crime reported Up 7.63% All other crime reported down 1.35%

Total crime reported up 5.71% Total crime reported down 1.78%

UP 9 Down 7 8 UP 8 Down

Home Invasion Prevention, Guest Speaker Legislator Mejias at CCAF Oct 20th Meeting.

Top priority at the Oct.20 Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale meeting was to help alert the community on how

to prevent their homes from being violated by the string of home invasions that have plagued Nassau County. Eighth Precinct

POP Officers Tom Murphy and Paul LaMonaca dispensed literature and educated residents in attendance on how to help keep

their homes invasion-free.Some of the tips included pruning overgrown shrubbery that hides windows and doors,making alarm

stickers visible on doors and windows,keeping a car in the driveway,if possible,having outside doors of solid core or metal clad,

setting inside lights on timers.They also advised walking around your home and creating a list of easy points of entry for an intruder

and marking valuables with your driver's license number in order to make them traceable if stolen and found on a burglar.

According to the officers,Make Your Home Secure booklets are available at local precincts. Residents were very appreciative

of the advice and POP officers LaMonaca and Murphy assured the crowd that Nassau County Police Department is placing a lot

of time and effort into finding the offenders and working with the district attorney's office to see that they are punished.

Soon after the POP officers' presentation concluded, CCAF president Mike Grello welcomed Dave Mejias.The Democratic

incumbent for the 14th Legislative District announced his plans for his campaign to the crowd and spoke about his commitment

to the community in which he was born and raised.As a North Massapequa resident,Mejias shared some of the same concerns

as the residents such as the activity in the Massapequa Preserve and announced that he was instrumental in the recently

passed law of heavier penalties and fines for those caught with ATV's in the Preserve.

Since taking office in 2003, Mejias remarked that Nassau County taxes have not increased, there are 337 more police officers

with another 125 graduating in November 2005.

"In fact", said Mejias, "Nassau County was voted the safest place to live two years in a row by Forbes Magazine and the FBI."

One of the major themes echoed by Mejias during his conversation with the audience was that the process with the school

aid formula must be addressed and he is committed to making this a major focus if re-elected.

"We must fix the school aid formula,we must put pressure on those in Albany to give school tax aid relief," Mejias explained.

He said he is also equally financially concerned about his constituents and recently broke off from his party fighting a

90 percent pay increase.

"If that pay increase went through, I would have donated it all to local charities," Mejias stated.

He added he has already dedicated many efforts towards funding through grant monies for both the Farmingdale and

South Farmingdale Fire Departments, aided them with the purchase of Thermal Imaging Camera, Notebook Computers

and a stretcher and stair chair.

Mejias mentioned that during his first term in office he held multiple informational meetings on topics such as

the Liberty Site, tax exemption and tax grievance.

"What I want for you," concluded Mejias, "is for you to believe that government can work again.This was a one

party system for too long."

Mejias is running against Republican candidate Tom Sabellico in next week's election.The CCAF meets the third

Thursday of each month at Allen Park's Community Center Building. For more information visit.www.ccaf-civic.org.

Cops arrest pair in 2nd hate crime case

October 11, 2005

Days after police announced they were looking for information on a Melville robbery apparently motivated by

hatred for homosexuals, another attack occurred.

The scenarios were similar, but Sunday night's incident ended with the arrest of two men, charged with firstdegree

robbery and unlawful imprisonment as a hate crime,A third man is still being sought.

In both incidents -- the first was Oct. 3 -- the victims arrived at the Long Island Expressway Exit 49 park-and-ride

lot, where they met Victor Lopez, 18, of 3043 Great Neck Rd., Copiague, police said. Lopez promised the men sex

and told them to follow him to an industrial park near Duryea Road and Route 110, said police,who have described

the park-and-ride as a place men cruise for anonymous gay sex.

The other man arrested Sunday in addition to Lopez was David Andrade, 19, who has the same address as Lopez.

Their relatives could not be reached for comment .

Both victims, whom police would not identify because they were involved in a hate crime,were taken to a wooded

area where two others emerged, one with a gun.The three attackers bound the victims at gunpoint with duct

tape, demanded their bank card numbers and called them derogatory words for homosexuals.

When the latest victim refused to relinquish security numbers, one of the attackers pulled the gun's trigger without

firing it, Hate Crimes Bureau Det. Sgt. Robert Reecks said, "saying the next time would be the real one."

Two of them left the scene with the victim's bank and credit cards, which they used to withdraw cash and buy

merchandise.

The attack involved a Nassau man, 43,who waited until the following morning to report the crime, fearing threats

that his family would be killed if he went to police.After Sunday's incident, the victim, 39, also from Nassau, immediately

called 911, Reecks said.

The man was able to give a description of the car and got a partial license plate number,Reecks said. Later, a police

canine unit pulled the car over when they saw it going south on Route 110 in Farmingdale. Both victims went to the

Second Precinct in Huntington and identified Lopez and Andrade,Reecks said.Lopez and Andrade confessed to police

that they committed the crimes because they hate gays, Reecks said.

They told police the third man goes by the name, "El Negro" -- "The Black Man" in Spanish -- Reecks said, adding

that preliminary information from immigration officials indicates Lopez and Andrade are here illegally from Honduras.

CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG

There are four good reasons you should clean up after your dog: It is illegal not to in the Town of Oyster Bay, it is

polluting our groundwater and bays, it is hazardous to human health, and it is a nuisance for you and your neighbors.

"In May 1977, the Oyster Bay Town Board adopted an ordinance, Section 103-5, nicknamed the 'Pooper Scooper'

law, requiring residents to clean up after their dogs if they curb them or use any land other than their own without

the express permission of the landowner.The ordinance wasn't adopted simply because it is annoying to step in

dog waste, which we all know it is, but because of the pollution and health hazards involved."

The facts speak for themselves.The average dog produces one-half pound of feces every day. When that is multiplied

by the number of dogs in the entire Town‚ 3,624 at the end of 2004, not to mention numerous unlicensed

dogs the implications go far beyond the unpleasant sight, odor and nuisance factors. Flies breed and feed on it and

carry the bacteria to foods. Rain carries it into the groundwater, the only source of drinking water on Long Island,

either through the accumulated deposit at the sumps and or through recharge basins that feed our groundwater

supply. The nitrogen content of the waste then contaminates the drinking water.

When the waste is carried to our bays, creeks and canals, a different problem is created.Among the bacteria contained

in feces is coliform. Health agencies will refer to a 'high coliform count' when announcing the closing of

beaches But before the coliform reaches the concentration to close a beach, it has already contaminated shellfish

beds. Many of the shell fishing grounds on Long Island have been lost because of coliform contamination. Also, the

process of breaking down organic matter in the waste uses up dissolved oxygen and releases ammonia. Low oxygen

levels, increased ammonia and warm summer water temperatures can kill fish. Excess phosphorous and nitrogen,

both contained in pet waste, added to the surface water can lead to cloudy, green water from accelerated algae

and weed growth. Objectionable odors can also occur."

In addition to polluting the environment, dog excrement poses a threat to human health and can transmit potentially

serious diseases. For instance, if a dog has toxocarisis (roundworms), it can be passed on to humans. Bacterial infections

such campylobacteriosis and salmonellosis can also be contracted by humans coming into contact with infected feces.

Oyster Bay Town changes building inspection policies

As a result of problems regarding construction of a new addition to a North Massapequa business, Central Tile Imports

Limited, the Town of Oyster Bay announced recently that it has changed the operations of its building department

"The change now requires Town Building inspectors to visit sites throughout the town that are undergoing construction,

unannounced, as part of their regular duties. Prior to this, the business or contractor requested inspections at various

stages in the construction.

In Central Tile’s case, the builder never called the Town for periodical inspections of the construct, so the site was never

inspected.As a result, the approved one-story establishment ballooned into a two-story building that was also encroaching

on a neighboring residence. Because the Town said the building’s scope was far beyond its permits and plans, they

are asking that the building be razed.

When it came to the attention of town officials that the building, located at 1129 N. Broadway,was in noncompliance,

the town slapped a stop work order on any further construction May 13 and shut down the business.A judge later

ordered that Central Tile could reopen for business on June 10, under the stipulation that employees not enter nor work

in the illegal extension.

However, on July 23, neighbors who had initially brought the problem to the town’s attention,were dismayed to once

again hear the sounds of pounding hammers and see workmen moving in and out of the extension.They called the

supervisor and the councilman at their homes and a troubleshooter arrived on the scene.

Steven J. Marx, Special Counsel to the Supervisor, informed the company that it would be served with a fine if they didn’t

stop working.Although Marx was told by the workers that they were only "cleaning up, " they stopped working and left.

Dillon Announces Arrest of Individuals for Insurance Fraud

Farmingdale Man Included in Those Charges

Nassau County District Attorney Denis Dillon recently announced that the DA's Criminal Frauds Bureau has arrested three

individuals who collected workers' compensation benefits totaling more than $76,939 that they were not entitled to receive.

Insurance fraud is a crime against consumers, who pay the price when they take out a policy and pay the premium. It's

estimated that insurance fraud is costing the average American family over $1,650 each year in increased premiums and taxes.

Dillon stated that Dion Lonigro, 40, of Farmingdale. Lonigro claimed to have injured his back and right knee while

employed as a driver for Long Island Beverage Company. He applied for workers' compensation benefits. On September

12,2003,he was classified as temporarily partially disabled.He was authorized to receive benefits of $300 per week. Dillon

stated that Lonigro could have worked and made up to $150 per week while maintaining his full workers' compensation

benefits. "Lonigro repeatedly reported he was not working. In reality, he was working as a painter and making more than

$150 a week.Video surveillance shows that Lonigro was working from March 2004 through January 2005.He never reported

he was working and collected approximately $11,760 in benefits during the period he was employed.According to his

boss he made approximately $330 per week. Lonigro has been charged with three counts of Offering a False Instrument

for Filing in the First Degree and one count of Workers' Compensation Fraud, both Class E Felonies," Stated Dillon.

A Westbury and West Babylon resident were also charged.The charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are

presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

In order for any civic group to be successful it

must establish and maintain a strong and committed

membership base which trusts and respects its

elected leadership. A successful civic organization

must remain focused and in agreement on what its

issues and battles will be; it must respect each other's

opinions, and encourage open debate on issues

within the community.

Every government degenerates when trusted to the

rulers of the people alone. The people themselves,

therefore, are its only safe depositories.

Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia,

Query 14, 1781

Arrogance and blind trust are the ingredients for

corruption. Our apathy gives rise to their arrogance.

Our politicians serve at the pleasure of the people.

When the politicians feel that they alone possess the

answers to the problems of today and are the sole

arbiters of what is right, the light of liberty will be

gone. The politicians are of the people not above the

people. Our apathy gives rise to their arrogance.

"First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then

they fight you, then you win."

Mahatma Gandhi

Election Day 2005

Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi was re-elected to his second four-year term, candidate Greg Peterson and candidate

Robert Bruno. Suozzi, received 178,133 votes. Peterson received 114,115 votes and Bruno received 9,097 votes.

Denis Dillon, Nassau County District Attorney since 1974, lost his seat to prosecutor Kathleen Rice. Rice, she received

151,819 votes; Dillon received 143,827 votes. District Attorney terms are four years.

In the race for Nassau County Clerk, current New York State Assemblywoman Maureen O'Connell defeated Tricia Ferrell

for the seat being vacated by Karen Murphy. O'Connell, received 149,275 votes while Ferrell, received 132,669 votes.

County clerk terms are four years.

Howard Weitzman was re-elected to a second four-year term as Nassau County Comptroller, defeating current

Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin.Weitzman, received 151,819 votes while Clavin received 134,111.

In the 14th Legislative District,Incumbent David Mejias was re-elected to his second term as legislator defeating,Thomas

Sabellico in a close race. Mejias,received 7,587 votes to Sabellico's 7,184.

In the race for Oyster Bay Supervisor, residents returned incumbent Supervisor John Venditto to a fourth term in office.

Venditto, received 45,713 votes while his challenger,Gary Burke, received 22,786 votes.The Supervisor terms is two years.

Residents of Oyster Bay Town also voted for three of six candidates for town board.

Angelo Delligatti and Chris Coschignano were re-elected while political newcomer Elizabeth Faughnan, defeated Mary

McCaffery, the incumbent.The numbers were as follows: Delligatti, received 40,779 votes;Coschignano, 38,802;Faughnan,

received 35,786 votes; McCaffery, received 27,016 votes; Edward M. Dane and Jay Cherlin received 25,683 and 25,584

votes, respectively. Oyster Bay Town Board terms are two years voted for at-large.

In the race for Oyster Bay Town Clerk, incumbent Steve Labriola, defeated Bill Funk. Labriola garnered 40,000 votes;

Funk received 24,785.Town clerk terms are two years.

Election results Babylon and Suffolk*

Town of Babylon

Supervisor—Steve Bellone 74%-Jim McDonough 26%

Town Board—Lindsay Henry 42%-Carol Quirk 29%-Tom Gargiulo 28%-Gerark Kraft 1%

Town Clerk—Janice Tinsley Colbert 71%-Thomas O Brien 29%

Suffolk District Attorney—Tom Spota 100%

Suffolk Treasurer—Angie Carpenter 59%-Nancy Crespo 39%

Suffolk Sheriff—Vincent DeMarco 52%-Al Tisch 48%

Suffolk Legislature—14th District—Wayne Horsley 59%-Rober Pflaum 41%

15th District—Elie Mystal 60%-Patricial Williams (R, C) 40%

Lenox Hills Estates Continues to Raise Ire of Sherman Road Neighbors

When Ken and Adrianne Johnston moved into their home on Sherman Road in 1973 there were 4.5 acres of undeveloped

land behind it dubbed the Hueppe Property. It has, for the most part, remained that way until a few months ago.

That's when the construction of eight $1 million homes commenced just beyond their backyard.

The cul-de-sac behind and above the Johnstons is located northwest of Melville Road and southeast of Jefferson Road,

with a driveway entrance on Fairview Road.

Brian and Jessica Healey are in the same situation, just two doors down from the Johnstons. Brian met with Village of

Farmingdale officials after the September trustees meeting.The impromptu informational session was conducted by the

village in an effort to address each individual's concern.

One of Healey's main concerns is that the foundations have been moved from the original site plan.

"There is a lot of misinformation and people don't understand what they are looking at, what the developer is required

to do and what the laws are," Village Attorney Greg Carman said. "What we thought we would do is have an open discussion

so that we could try and get good information out to the people," he added, referring to the Sept. 6 discussion.

"The problem still continues," Healy explained. "They [the village] said the developer was within its legal rights to do

it."

According to both the Johnstons and Healeys, the building plans they were shown when the project was approved

included new homes being set 27-30 feet off their property lines. Now they said homes were constructed 15 feet from

neighboring property lines.

"We have a front yard that towers over our house by 12 feet," Healey explained. "We're looking at the front of a house.

The house is four stories tall in the back yard because the foundation is fully exposed."

Carman responded that the homes are situated the legal distance from the property lines.

Carman explained that "the approved site plan shows the proposed building lots and the area within those lots known

as the building envelope.That building envelope shows you where all the setbacks are to the property line.The foundation

has to sit within the building envelope."

Building distances and figures are regulated by the village code, which, for the most part, emulates that of the Town of

Oyster Bay. Carman said the village's building department, supervised by Ron Craig, has been responsible for ensuring the

developer is in compliance with permit approvals.

Carman explained, "these building permits were issued in the ordinary course of business."

"We are fully conforming with every requirement of the AAA zone in the Village of Farmingdale, which is the most

restrictive zone in the village," said Anthony Bartone, a partner of Bartone Holdings, LLC, the developer of Lenox Hill

Estates. "We are doing anything that anybody else would have a right to do."

Healey's neighbor, Joe Carosella, said in the plans they were originally shown, the houses were further away. Carosella's

argument is that no one explained the homes could legally be built as close as they are to his neighbor's homes.

"We never expected these homes to be as encroaching onto our properties as they are," Carosella said. "What you see

from my backyard is the retaining wall and they just put the white fence along the top of it."

According to Bartone, the original plan had a natural grade into Lenox Hills.

"As per the residents' request, they asked us to put in retaining walls and a fence to screen any headlights that might

be on the street from going into their windows," Bartone added.

The retaining walls and fences were added at the cost of the developer.

"Now that we did that, they are complaining about the fact that it is there," Bartone said. "It has to remain because it's

on the approved site plan."

Additionally, the developer designed a map, which had in excess of 160 trees for screening and natural vegetation.

"To date,we've planted in excess of 210 trees, which we were not mandated to do," Bartone explained.

A public hearing on the development of the Hueppe Property was held in June 2004.The board, residents and a representative

of the engineering firm were all present.

"We've had in excess of eight to 10 public hearings on this over the past two or three years," Bartone added. "We've

addressed every concern that has come up."

The drainage issue was the one looked at the most closely, Bartone said.The drainage system was re-engineered three

different times.

"The first proposal was with a conventional drainage system," Bartone said. "We proposed an alternate method with a

drainage system comprised of diffusion wells.What they do is punch through any soil conditions, this way the water can

diffuse into good soil conditions.We continued to look at the system, both my engineer and H2M [the village's engineering

firm], and collectively we decided to take all the water on site, collect it and ship it all up to Nassau County.To the

best of my knowledge, this is unprecedented."

According to Bartone, this drainage system cost his company in excess of $500,000, whereas a conventional drainage

system would cost $150,000.

"This was $350,000 above and beyond what is an acceptable building standard," Bartone said."We are 100 percent confident

that this drainage system is so far overbuilt that there should be no issues at all."

Bartone stated that for the most part the vast majority of surrounding residents seemed satisfied with the measures

taken to address drainage concerns.

Also during the public hearing process the site's density was reduced.

This proposal originally started out with the prior owner as 12 homes," Bartone said. "As per the village's request,we

reduced it to 10 and then at a subsequent hearing we then again reduced it to eight.That is a significant cost impact on

the project."

While Bartone, a lifelong Farmingdale resident, said the company's motivation wasn't money, but rather to "create a

beautiful court," he added they "certainly have tried to be as receptive as possible to every single concern."

The homes that comprise Lenox Hills Estates have all been completed, with six out of eight being sold.According to

Barton the homes were sold "in excess of $1 million."

Trump, Taxiway Discussed at October RAC Meeting

Donald Trump,the realignment of Taxiway Lima, and the proposed construction of two new 35,000 square foot hangars

were just some of the topics discussed at the Republic Airport Commission meeting held on Monday, Oct. 17.The meeting,

which took place at Republic Airport's main terminal,was open to the public and attracted approximately 40 attendees.

RAC Chairman Frank Nocerino began the proceedings by addressing the crowd and reiterating the Commission's stance

that there is "no desire to move the airport to stage III." Nocerino's statement was intended to quell the fears of local residents

who oppose this notion.Republic Airport currently operates at stage II and caters predominantly to category II and lower aircraft,

which are smaller and less noisy that their category III counterparts.Nocerino also noted that a committee comprised of

both civic and airport personnel would be formed to make decisions regarding all future airport projects and changes.

One of the main points of contention during the night revolved around Donald Trump's jet, which drew the ire of local

residents when it streaked low over the neighborhoods bordering the airport.The noise and low altitude, coupled with

the fact that the jet made several passes, contributed to a spike in complaints, the RAC said.The jet had been given clearance

by the control tower to fly lower than normal and make the passes in order get shots for Trump's NBC television

show,The Apprentice.While Nocerino and the RAC continuously stated that the responsibility to prosecute falls on the

FAA, concerned citizens were not deterred in venting their frustration at the incident several times during the meeting.

Both the RAC and representatives of companies operating out of Republic Airport expressed their outrage at the incident

and were adamant about not letting something like it happen again.

Also discussed at the meeting was the possibility of widening one of the taxiways located at the southeast corner of

the airport. Billed as the Realignment of Taxiway Lima, the proposal entailed widening the taxiway by several feet on each

side and centering it between the hangars.The reason given for the project was that the added girth of the taxiway would

make it much easier for planes to enter the hangars under their own power rather than being repositioned and towed in

by support vehicles as is currently done. Residents in attendance questioned the necessity of such a proposal and

expressed fears that the project would make it easier for the airport to start catering to more category III aircraft.The RAC

also discussed the proposed construction of two new 35,000 square foot hangars.This proposal also raised the concern

of citizens and Nocerino was quick to point out that all proposed projects were not even in their infancy and that the

possibility of their construction was merely in discussion.

In addition, the RAC also mentioned the possible construction of noise barriers along the Route 110 corridor.The RAC

is currently negotiating the details of the project and hopes to seek funding for the endeavor through Assemblyman

Charles Fuscillo.The next Republic Airport Commission meeting is scheduled for Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at Republic Airport on

Route 110 in East Farmingdale. Further information can be obtained by contacting the airport at 631-752-7707 or by visiting

www.republicairport.net.

As exposed by the Long Island Press newspaper dated 9/22-28/05 on the Cedar Creek Sewage Treatment Plant,

titled "Toxic Offender - Disastrous L. I. Sewage Plant is a Public Health Threat"

This a must read for anyone that uses Cedar Creek Park or Wantagh Park.While the article mentions the proximity of

two public schools to the plant, the parks are at even greater risk. Raw sewage all over the plant, defective equipment, airborne

pathogens and the dumping of raw sewage through the outfall pipe at Jones Beach chronicle a health disaster for

anyone using these public facilities.Also mentioned is the Bay Park plant and its many violations which would affect users

of Bay Park itself.

Ball players, model plane fliers, picnickers, boaters (including those out of Seaford Harbor), fishermen, etc. etc. who use

these 3 parks may have been unwitting victims to the deplorable conditions in both sewage plants.Workers there have

complained of headaches, sore throats and other symptoms that could be caused by the myriad problems outlined.

The county administration knew nothing of the problem and the County Superintendent in charge, Identified as Richard

Cotugno refuses to comment and his boss Deputy County Executive Peter Gerbasi who oversees DPW & Parks denies

there is a problem. (Sounds like he will be the next Deputy County Executive to go).

Any one that has been using any of these parks should be calling Nassau County Administration and demanding TRUTHFUL

answers and immediate action.

Rep. Carolyn McCarthy To Present County Executive Suozzi With Check

Mineola, N.Y- The Nassau County Youth Board will receive $221,995 in funding through the Federal Office of Juvenile

Justice Delinquency Prevention that will be used to support education, career development and job placement services,

Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi announced Monday with Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-Fourth District).The services

are aimed at current and former gang involved youth at imminent risk of youth violence and/or involved in gang activity.

County Executive Suozzi and Congresswoman McCarthy were joined by Nassau County Police Commissioner James

Lawrence, Inspector Robert Turk of the Taskforce Against Gangs (TAG),Youth Board Director George Siberon, and Nassau

County Legislators Roger Corbin (D-Westbury) and David Mejias (D-North Massapequa).

This earmark allocation, advocated for by Congresswoman McCarthy, will be used to support education, career development

and job placement services for current and former gang involved youth at imminent risk of youth violence and/or

involved in gang activity. Representatives from the awarded agencies will also attend.

In addition to the allocations provided for the Nassau County Youth Board and the Nassau County Police Department,

agencies funded include the Economic Opportunity Commission of Nassau County, and STRONG Youth Inc.

"We must use every resource at our disposal to deter youth from joining gangs and the importance of agencies and programs

that provide services such as career development and job placements cannot be overstated," said County Executive

Suozzi."We want to target youth violence in our communities and better educate our young people of the dangers of gang

involvement including crime, injury, death, and destruction of their family life and their future."

"Gang violence presents a serious challenge to our community, but this funding will help kids make the right decision

when confronted with the false promises of gang membership. I am confident this program will become a model for other

communities throughout the United States," said Congresswoman McCarthy. "Nassau County will lead the way in combating

violence at the source through partnerships with schools, law enforcement,community organizations and most importantly,

kids and parents"

"This funding affords us the opportunity to provide paid employment as well as career and employability skills training,"

said Inspector Turk. "It provides at-risk youth with an alternative to the allure of gang membership."

"The Nassau County Youth Board is thankful to Congresswoman McCarthy and County Executive Suozzi for their support

in attaining these funds," Director Siberon said. "Youth violence and gangs defy an easy solution or single strategy.

This initiative will work with the Nassau County Police Department, Economic Opportunity Commission of Nassau

County and STRONG Youth, Inc. to educate the broader community and provide viable options for youth at imminent risk

of, or involved in, gang activity."

The TAG Coordinator's Office has coordinated law enforcement efforts with the 17 villages and two city police departments

within Nassau County as well as New York City, Suffolk County, New York State Police and federal agencies, including

the FBI Street Gangs Taskforce, ICE,ATF, and DEA. In addition, the 11 Nassau County TAG coalition partners meet on a

regular basis to discuss anti-violence strategies and initiatives, and Gang Awareness Presentations are conducted throughout

the County and are made available upon request.

As a result of these efforts, Nassau County saw more than a 37% decrease in gang-related incidents last year.This year, gang

related arrests are up more than 15%, gang member gun arrests are up almost 4% and other weapons arrests are up 57%.

TOWN OFFERS FREE FIREWOOD,WOODCHIPS AND MULCH

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto announced that beginning Saturday, November 26, the Town will have free firewood

available for Town residents.

"Starting on November 26, and continuing through Sunday, March 26, 2006,Town of Oyster Bay residents can come to the

Town Highway yard, 100 Miller Place, Syosset, or the Carman Mill Yard, Carman Mill Road, Massapequa,weekends, 7:00 a.m. to

4:00 p.m., to pick up a trunk-full of CUT, BUT NOT SPLIT wood, as well as wood chips and mulch/compost," Supervisor

Venditto stated. "No vehicles with commercial plates will be permitted."

Supervisor Venditto went on to say that getting firewood is only half the picture. "Remember that both the fireplace and

chimney need to be cleaned and inspected before the first use of the season to avoid any chance of a chimney fire," the

Supervisor cautioned."The most common problem with the chimney is the buildup of creosote that collects in the stovepipe,

chimney lining and flue.This buildup can be the cause of a dangerous fire, threatening life and property. If you are not able to

scrape off the creosote accumulation yourself, be sure to hire a professional.

"Precautions should also be taken when the fireplace is in use," the Supervisor continued."The damper must always remain

open whenever the fire is lit in the fireplace, and either screening or glass doors should be used to keep sparks from flying

into the room.

"Nothing warms the body and soul like a toasty fire," Supervisor commented. "So, pick up some free firewood, courtesy of

the Town,make sure your fireplace is in good working order and enjoy the special warmth that a fireplace radiates."

A SUGAR-PLUMB STUPID THEFT

Two Long Island men have been jailed for having a serious sweet tooth — stealing $50,000 worth of sugar, police said.

The two were caught by Suffolk County detectives sticky-handed — offloading 2,500 pounds of the white stuff into a van

in the dead of night, said Suffolk Detective Lt. James Maher.

"It's a sweet case," said Maher of the theft of almost 100,000 pounds of sugar from a Farmingdale firm over the past

month and a half.

The owners of Fruitcrown Products noticed that huge amounts of sugar — far too large to be blamed on ants — were

missing from their warehouse.

"They realized that it had to be somebody inside, because nobody was breaking in," said Maher.

The firm contacted police, who caught Fruitcrown truck driver Christopher Flagg, 31, transferring 50 bags — each weighing

50 pounds — of stolen sugar to Maximo Ramirez, 44, behind a laundry in Copiague at 1:15 a.m. yesterday.

Flagg was charged with two counts of grand larceny.

Ramirez,who was allegedly buying the hot sugar and reselling it,was charged with possession of stolen property.

Flagg has at least one prior arrest for robbery and weapons possession, a source said.

All questions regarding Town Board Meetings

please call 516-624-6390.

18 ways to lower your heating bill.

Lower the thermostat setting

We don't want your home to feel like the frozen tundra or even for you to be the least bit uncomfortable. However,

you should be aware that if you keep your home above the 68 degrees F that is recommended by most energy guides.

The savings shown represent pushing your thermostat to no more than 68 degrees F.

Purchasing a programmable thermostat, at a cost of between $60-$100, can help you consistently lower your thermostat

settings.Also called clock thermostats or set-back thermostats, these devices automatically change the temperature

for you. For example, you can program a lower temperature overnight and then have it warm up 30 minutes or so

before you get up, so you awake to a warm house. Most models allow multiple changes per day and enable you to program

different settings for Saturdays and Sundays as well.

Install low-flow showerheads

Energy-efficient showerheads have become much more common in recent years. In fact, they have been required in

new homes since 1994.

A good quality efficient showerhead will save you a significant amount of energy and water without any sacrifice in

the feel of your shower.They are generally very easy to install as well. Don't be discouraged if you've had a bad experience

in the past (we know what it's like to stand under a shower as water drips out and you struggle to keep warm).

This problem is easily avoided by getting a quality unit.

But how do you know if a low-flow shower head is a quality unit? Ask at your local hardware or homebuilding store

and explain that you don't want to sacrifice on comfort.They should be able to recommend a quality unit. Just to be on

the safe side, make sure that you can return it if you are not satisfied for any reason.

Control air leakage

Sealing windows and doors is a relatively inexpensive and easy task that can be done by the do-it-yourselfer. Both

windows and doors can require caulk and weather stripping for adequate protection against the elements. If you feel a

draft, that's a sign that additional weatherization is needed.You should also inspect the caulk and weather stripping

around doors and windows and replace anything that is cracked or damaged.

Caulking: Caulking requires very few tools: a caulking gun, the tube of caulk, a rag, a nail, and a razor or knife are typically

all that you will need.You will want to make sure that the caulk is suitable for exterior applications. It will say so

right on the tube

Weather stripping:There are several different types of weather stripping, each varying in durability and ease of installation.

If you are concerned about aesthetics, note that some types of weather stripping are visible when installed, while

others are not. Since there are many types of weather stripping, it is probably best just to ask at your local hardware or

home building supply store.

You also should look at the outlets in your home. On a windy day, place your hand close to the outlet.You might be

surprised to feel a draft. If you do, plugs designed for capping unused outlets are available at most hardware stores.Also,

foam gaskets are available for insulating behind the outlet cover.

Insulate your attic or roof space. Doing so can cut heating costs by up to 30%. Plus, it will keep your home warmer in

the winter.

Have an insulation contractor inspect your home. If it needs more insulation,

cellulose can be blown into the walls to cut down substantially on heating costs.

• Wrap insulation around pipes in your basement and crawl space to avoid heat loss.•

•Move chairs and beds away from exterior walls. These are usually the coldest walls in the house.•

•Keep your windows clean. Dirty windows don't allow full sunlight in to warm your house.•

• Use ceiling fans. They force warm air down, so you can set your thermostat at a lower temperature.•

• Keep the damper closed when your fireplace is not in use. Hot air escapes quickly through the chimney.•

• Tape a sheet of aluminum foil (shiny side out) to the wall behind radiators. This will help to make them more efficient.•

• Keep radiators (and registers in a warm air system) clean and dust-free so heat flows freely.•

• Turn your radiator valves either completely on or off. Opening them partially does not regulate a radiator's heat output.•

• Don't put anything on top of a radiator to block its heat output except a ventilated cover. Never block radiators with drapes.•

• Turn down the temperature on your hot water heater to the warm setting (120°). You'll save energy and avoid scalding your hands.•

• Wrap your hot water heater with an insulating blanket to prevent heat loss.•

• Install storm windows and doors to keep out drafts and help you save on heating costs.•

• Clean or replace filters in furnaces, air conditioners and heat pumps at the beginning of the summer and winter.

This will permit a better air- flow throughout the house.•

From the Town of Oyster Bay Code Book.

ARTICLE I, Streets and Highways

§ 205-1. Accumulations of materials.

No person shall cause or permit any accumulation of sand, gravel, cinders, topsoil,mud, earth or other materials to

be placed, deposited, tracked or flowed upon any street or highway.

ARTICLE II, Sidewalks, Curbs and Gutters

§ 205-2.Accumulation of snow or ice. [Amended 1-29-1980; 8-9-1988]

Each owner and occupant of any house or other building, and any owner or person entitled to possession of any

vacant lot, and any person having charge of any church or any public building in the town shall keep the sidewalk

in front of the lot or house free from obstruction by snow or ice and icy conditions, and shall at all times keep the

sidewalk in good and safe repair and maintain it in a clean condition and free from filth, dirt,weeds or other obstructions

or encumbrances, and such owner or occupant and each of them shall be liable for any injury or damage by

reason of omission, failure or negligence to make, maintain or repair such sidewalk or for a violation or nonobservance

of the ordinances relating to making, maintaining and repairing sidewalks, curbstones and gutters.

§ 205-3. Prohibited obstructions; exceptions.

No person who is the owner, occupant or lessee of any premises abutting on any street, road, highway or parkway

in the unincorporated area of the town shall place, keep, permit or suffer to be placed or kept on any sidewalk in

front of, adjoining or adjacent to his premises any goods,wares, merchandise, boxes, barrels, display signs or material

things of any kind or description, nor shall he in any manner obstruct any sidewalk or in any manner obstruct or

interfere with the use of any sidewalk, but nothing contained in this section shall prevent persons from placing

goods, wares, merchandise or household furniture on a sidewalk temporarily while loading or unloading it, if it is

done without unnecessary delay and if such goods, wares or merchandise are not allowed or permitted to remain

on the sidewalk for a longer period than one (1) hour.

§ 205-4. Plantings. [Added 4-8-1986]

Any planting on public right-of-way between curb and sidewalk by the adjacent owner or lawful occupier of the

premises thereof shall require a permit and approval of such plantings

Chapter 145, LANDSCAPING

[HISTORY:Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Oyster Bay 7-8-1997 by L.L. No. 5-1997.Amendments noted

where applicable.]

§ 145-1. License required.

Except as provided herein, all persons, companies or corporations (collectively referred to as "landscaper") who

perform landscaping functions in the Town of Oyster Bay shall be licensed in accordance with this chapter.

Landscaping functions may be performed without a license by the owner or occupant of the property on which the

work is performed or by the agent or employee of such owner or occupant, provided that such agent or employee

does not service more than two parties in the Town of Oyster Bay and has no other employees.

§ 145-2. Activities regulated.

For the purpose of this chapter, landscaping functions shall include but are not limited to the cultivation, fertilization,

seeding, planting, cutting, trimming, pruning, maintenance of grass, shrubs, plants, trees or other foliage.

§ 145-3. Work performed without license prohibited; responsibility for license.

No landscaper shall perform any landscaping functions within the Town of Oyster Bay without first obtaining a

license to do so from the Town Clerk.The first due date for a town permit is March 1, 1998.All landscaping work by

an unlicensed landscaper is prohibited. No property owner or occupant shall permit any unlicensed landscaper to

perform any landscaping function on his/her property Licenses shall be obtained by the proprietor of the landscape

business or by a corporate officer.

§ 145-4. Application procedure.

Any landscaper desiring a license by this chapter shall make application on forms prescribed by the Town Clerk of

the Town of Oyster Bay or his or her designee.

§ 145-5. Fees.

Each applicant for a license shall pay a fee of $25 as a nonrefundable filing fee with the application. Fifty dollars

shall be paid by the applicant to the Town Clerk or his or her designee upon issuance of the license.

§ 145-6. Expiration of license; renewal.

All licenses issued pursuant to this chapter shall expire on the last day of February in the following year in which

they have been issued. Licenses shall be renewed upon payment of an annual fee of $50 on or after the first day of

February of the year to be licensed. If the licensee fails to make proper timely application for renewal, he/she shall

be required to reapply and pay the additional license fee as set forth in the preceding section in the amount of $25

as a nonrefundable filing fee with the application and $50 paid upon the issuance of the license.

§ 145-7. Identification decals.

Each applicant shall fix to and display on the driver's door of each vehicle and on the left rear bumper of any trailer

regularly used in the course of its business an identification decal issued by the Town of Oyster Bay.

§ 145-8. Regulations.

The following rules and regulations shall apply as of the effective date of this chapter:

A. No landscaper shall perform landscaping work on Sunday.

B. Landscaping work may be performed by landscapers only during the hours of 8:00 a.m. through 7:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

C.Any landscaper desiring a license pursuant to this chapter shall make application on forms prescribed by the

Town Clerk of the Town of Oyster Bay or his or her designee as provided herein.

D. No landscaper shall scatter, nor in using any mechanical or electrical blower, cause to be scattered any garbage,

refuse or cuttings, leaves or other waste materials on any public highway or public property without removing

and/or cleaning the same immediately.

E. No one shall spill or dump oil, gasoline or other petroleum products or any pesticides on the public highway

or right-of-way or on the ground. No equipment shall be filled or refilled except over a drop cloth or other

device designed to catch and retain any accidental spillage.

§ 145-9. Penalties for offenses.

Each and every violation of any provision of this chapter or of any of the rules and regulations promulgated hereunder

shall be punishable by a mandatory minimum fine of not less than $100 and/or imprisonment for a period

not to exceed 15 days, for each and every separate offense relating to a violation of this chapter.

§ 145-10. Revocation and suspension of license.

In addition to the penalties set forth in § 145-9 of this chapter, the town may revoke or suspend any license issued

pursuant to this chapter after notice to the licensee.

§ 145-11. License to be in possession of person performing work.

The license issued pursuant to this chapter or a photocopy signed by the licensee shall be at all times in the actual

possession of the person performing the work at the site.

NEWSLETTER-----SEPT. 2005

Republic Airport Commission

for immediate release

Republic Airport Commission Chairman schedules public

meeting to discuss taxiway relocation

(Farmingdale, NY)-Mr. Frank Nocerino, Chairman of the Republic Airport Commission today

announced that a public information center scheduled for July to discuss the propossed relocation

fo Taxiway Bravo will be postponed until furhter notice. Chairman Nocerino state “The

information center will be designed to brief the surrounding community on what is being

undertaken, hear their questions, respond to why this project is being undertaken, whether

there is any impact on air and ground operations at the airport, and when this safety project

would get underway.”

Chairman Nocerino says the Commission considered a late July public outreach effort regarding

the taxiway relocation but postponed it in consideration of the summer schedules of many

residents. In addition, the Commission instructed NYSDOT to obtain FAA’s New York Airports

District Office (ADO) position.

In February, the FAA sent the airport a comuniqué that stated “...we have determined that due

to the non-standard separation between Runway 1-19 and current parallel Taxiway ‘B’, the State

should consider undertaking the relocation of Taxiway ‘B’ in this Fiscal Year as a first priority.”

Howevber, Chairman Nocerino states “We will require additional clarification regarding whether

the FAA views this as an imminent safety hazard or an issue that needs to be resolved in due

time.” He is also requesting further information on alternatives that may be available to the airport

to meet the goal of improving the safety of the taxiway.

Mr. Nocerino continued,“Safety remains the paramount issue for this Commission and we will

do everything within our power to ensure the this airport operates well within safety regulations

as set down by federal and state authorities. Having said this, it must be done with the

knowledge of our neighbors, with clear cut instructions from the FAA, and with a clear understanding

of what is, and what isn’t being proposed.” He further reiterated that the commission

will not vote on the relocation of the taxiway without public input on the matter.

NEWS Reports

Armed Robbers Hold Up Massapequa Home Two men armed with handguns entered a Massapequa home through

an open front window at 3:05 a.m. June 13.According to police, the robbers proceeded to the master bedroom, where

they woke the owners of the house, a husband and wife, and locked them in the bathroom before escaping, direction

unknown, with cash and jewelry.According to Detective Robert Hillman of the Robbery Squad, subject number one is

described as a black male, 5' 4" tall to 5' 8" tall, medium build, possibly in his 20s. Subject number two is described as a

black male, 5' 8" tall, also in his 20s. Both subjects wore dark ski masks and light colored hooded sweatshirts.The victims

suffered no injuries. Detectives request that anyone with information about this or any other crime should contact

the Nassau County Police Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.All callers will remain anonymous.

Farmingdale Village Clerk John Giordano Resigning as of the end of May, Giordano will turn his duties over

to Acting Village Clerk Barbara Canonico. After 18 years serving the Village of Farmingdale, Giordano said he has

far exceeded his career goals. "I increased grant revenues tenfold during my tenure, when compared to the same period

prior," Giordano explained. "Many projects were completed, the most visible being Main Street revitalization, where

streetscape improvements were made and an 18 percent vacancy rate was eliminated." Over the years, Giordano's fiscal

responsibilities to the village have grown increasingly. He coordinates a team of seven department heads and administers

all legislative matters of the elected mayor and board of trustees. Giordano also wears many hats including assessor

and liaison.Among his various responsibilities are budgeting, finances, community development and managing day

to day business operations. His career achievements are numerous, including earning Clerk of the Year in 2000 by the

New York State Association of City and Village Clerks, of which he served as former president. Giordano also secured the

prestigious first place 2003 Main Street Award from the New York State Conference of Mayors for Farmingdale's Main

Street. He has also been credited for authoring the statewide Registered Municipal Clerk certification program. In the

future, Giordano plans to continue his village consulting business, as he has served various municipalities and chambers

of commerce on downtown revitalization and grants in the past. "I don't consider that I will really ever have a last day

because I will always be around to help out the village," Giordano said, "although I will miss the daily contacts with many

residents, store owners and village staff."

Republic Airport Commission to Vote on Taxiway Relocation The Republic Airport Commission is scheduled to

vote on a resolution to widen the distance between Taxiway B and Runway 1/19 from 200 to 400 feet in order to more

safely accommodate aircraft wingspans on the ground. According to Gary Lewi, a spokesperson for the Farmingdalebased

Republic Airport, the taxiway relocation would give two simultaneously taxiing aircraft greater wing clearance,

permitting a safer handling on the ground. This $7 million project was recommended by the Federal Aviation

Administration. Originally addressed in 2000, Lewi said the FAA recently sent Republic Airport Commission a memorandum