We are a warm, friendly and welcoming Reform Temple on the South Shore of Long Island
PLEDGE
With our voluntary dues model, you get full membership benefits with any meaningful pledge
SERVICES
We offer a range of services led by our clergy, including:
• Shabbat
• High Holidays
• Family Services
• Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
LEARN
Our award-winning Hebrew school features certified Hebrew and Judaic teachers, bar/bat mitzvah lessons and an active youth group
ACTIVITIES
We host activities that are enriching and fun!
• Social Club
• Sisterhood
• Chai Society
• Brotherhood
• Bowling League • Adult Education • Special Events
Norman J. Levy Park: From landfill to landmark 10
On the cover: Gus Geoffrion, age 7, Merrick
Photo: Tim Baker/Herald Cover design: Jeffrey A. Negrin
We provide a full scope eyecare services from checking the health of your eyes to picking out the right pair of glasses to specialty eyecare!
SEPT/OCT ONLY
offer a Back-to-School Package of $259 for a complete pair of kid’s eyeglasses (including brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Champions,
and much more!). Exclusions: Coatings/Transitions
A letter from the
publisher
Stuart Richner
We are pleased to present our annual Living In Merrick, a special supplement to the Merrick Herald. Not only does this guide include vital information about Merrick, but it also gives you a look at some of the people and places that represent the best of the community.
Think of Living In Merrick as an “owner’s manual” for newcomers and longtime residents alike. As you’ll see in these pages, there’s an amazingly rich social fabric here.
Those of us who live here know Merrick is a wonderful place with a rich history and unique “hidden gems,” which are an integral part of what makes Merrick such a wonderful place to live, work, shop, and play.
The Merrick Estates Civic Association’s property and clubhouse known colloquially as MECA is a community staple. When you think about South Shore living, MECA has it all: A pool, water views and a spirit that you won’t find anywhere else.
From historic sites along S. Merrick Avenue, to the sprawling hills of the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve, to good eats at Bourbon & Brews, there are gems in every pocket of the hamlet its people, its spirit and its businesses.
Living In Merrick is published in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce of the Merricks. We are honored to mark another year as the Chamber's official publication.
We hope that you find this edition useful and informative, and that you enjoy reading the Merrick Herald 52 weeks per year.
Stuart Richner
Publisher
P.S. If you're not currently receiving the Merrick Herald by mail each week, please help keep quality local journalism alive in your community by subscribing. See our ad on Page 16 for subscription information, or find us online at LIHerald.com/subscribe, or call (516) 569-4000, ext. 7.
Senior Editor Jordan Vallone
Publisher stuart richner
Vice President of Sales rhonda Glickman
Deputy Editor Jeffrey bessen
Features/
Special Sections Editor Karen bloom
Multi Media Marketing Consultant robert Cummings
Creative Director Designer Jeffrey Negrin
a message from the merrick chamber president
Ira reIter President, Merrick Chamber of Commerce
Dear Merrick Community Members,
As the President of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce, I am deeply committed to the businesses and residents that make our community exceptional. The Chamber has always been dedicated to advocating for local businesses and ensuring that Merrick remains a thriving place to live, work and shop. Our efforts over the past year have focused on strengthening these businesses and enhancing the quality of life in our town through various community events and initiatives.
In addition to our business advocacy, the Merrick Chamber of Commerce is proud to host a variety of events that bring our community together throughout the year. Our Annual Kids Fest in April is always a highlight, bringing joy to families with rides, crafts and activities. This fall, don't miss our Street Festival from Friday, Oct. 25 to Sunday, Oct. 27, which promises fun for the whole family with rides, crafts, and more. Our Annual Halloween Parade on Saturday, Nov. 2, 11 a.m. to noon, is another beloved tradition.
One of the ways we support our community is by sponsoring scholarships for graduates in all three high schools that serve Merrick. These scholarships help our young people take the next step in their education and career paths, underscoring our commitment to the future of our town.
As the year draws to a close, we invite you to join us for a Visit with Santa, on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Merrick Clubhouse, followed by our Annual Tree and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 5 p.m., at Broadcast Plaza.
These events are just a few examples of how we strive to make Merrick a wonderful place for families and businesses alike.
We encourage all residents to support our local businesses, and we invite any business that is not yet a member to join the Chamber and help us do even more for the community.
Sincerely,
Ira Reiter President
Board of Directors 2024 Executive Board
Ira Reiter ................................... President
Margaret Mueller ......First Vice Prsident
Sharon Davis ...... Second Vice President
Margaret Biegelman ................ Secretary
Rachel Morgenstern ................ Treasurer
Femy Aziz ...... Immediate Past President
Christine Mooney ....Executive Assistant
Board Members
Andrew S. Nachamie Board Member
Doug Mills Board Member
Board Members
Julie Marchesella ............ Board Member
Arlene Gregory ............... Board Member
Joe Baker ........................ Board Member
Lori Berger ..................... Board Member
Mathew Kryder .............. Board Member
Karen Fletcher ............... Board Member
Frank Montana............... Board Member
Frank Firriolo ................. Board Member
Randy Shotland .......................... Advisor To the Board
Marian Fraker - Gutin ................. Advisor To the Board
Important numbers
Merrick Library (516) 377-6112
North Merrick Library (516) 378-7474
Merrick Fire Department
Hook & Ladder Co. No. 1 (516) 867-4459
Friendship Engine & Hose Co. (516) 378-9599
Empire Hose Company No. 3 Inc. (516) 378-3633
North Merrick Fire Department
NMFD Headquarters (516) 223-4102
Emergency Merrick (516) 221-7044
North Merrick (516) 221-1500
Non-emergency
Merrick: (516) 221-7055
North Merrick 2 (516) 233-4102
Police Emergency 911
Nassau County Police 1st Precinct (516) 573-6100
Nassaau County Police 7th Precinct (516) 573-6700
Bellmore-Merrick Emergency Medical Services Non-emergency (516) 785-7700
Emergency (516) 742-3300
town of Hempstead
Deptartment of Sanitaton (516) 378-4210
Building Department (516) 538-8500
Town Hall (516) 489-5000
Parks and Recreation Department (516) 292-9000
Senior Enrichment (516) 485-8100
Veterans Services (516) 812-3506
Public Safety Department (516) 538-1900
Animal Shelter (516) 785-5220
Board of Appeals (516) 812-3004
Norman J. Levy Park:
By Brian Norman
What was once one man’s trash, has now become Merrick’s not so hidden treasure.
Residents by the thousands come every single day to walk in this beautiful nature preserve," said Town Supervisor Don Clavin. "If you’ve never been here, you don’t know what you’re missing.
Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve has been one of the top nature preserves on Long Island for almost 24 years. Previously the Merrick Landfill, the award winning preserve maintained by the Town of Hempstead serves as a plant and wildlife sanctuary, as well as a respite for all residents. Informally known as the “Merrick Mountain,” the siite's 155-foot summit is the highest on the South Shore, with views of Mer-
Tim Baker/Herald
If you live in Merrick, it’s easy to drive by the park’s entrance and not know what you’re missing. A gem to many who know and love it, the park’s peak is the highest on the South Shore, and offers panoramic views of Manhattan and beyond.
The park’s furriest residents are Nigerian Dwarf Goats. The colony act as natural weed control, and are a friendly face at the park’s main entrance.
rick, Long Island’s beaches and the New York City skyline from its peak.
Named after former state senator, environmental activist and longtime Merrick resident Norman J. Levy, the preserve offers residents three miles worth of trails, a 500-foot fishing pier made out of durable, environmentally friendly material, along with a kayak launch point for the “South Shore Blueway” water-based kayak trail.
An often overlooked aspect is the herd of Nigerian dwarf goats that reside at the park. Referred to as “pets-workersemployees” on the Town of Hempstead’s website, the goats are kept in a pen right near the entrance for residents to view as they enter.
At night, the goats are allowed to roam free, being used as an environmentally friendly way to control weeds and brush overgrowth, helping to complement the ecological mission of the park.
“Almost two decades ago, the Town of Hempstead transformed this into a beautiful preserve, and residents by the thousands come every single day where they can take a walk in a beautiful nature preserve,” Town Supervisor Don Clavin said. “If you’ve never been here, you don’t know what you’re missing.”
The preserve was created and is maintained by the Town of Hempstead. Board members have long been committed to keeping the park clean and pristine, and last year welcomed new goats and sheep as "residents."
If you love nature, the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve in Merrick is the place to be. A crown jewel of the South Shore, its features are not to be taken for granted — such as its miles and miles of trails.
PLACES OF WORSHIP
Mike Monahan/Herald
The Chabad Center for Jewish Life’s Rabbi Shimon Kramer, with his wife Chanie Kramer, and their daughters, from left, Mirel, Leah and Sarah, at the outer space-themed Purim celebration.
Churches
Community Presbyterian Church (516) 378-7761
Pastor: Moira Ahearne 2101 William Place
Grace Reformed Baptist Church (516) 379-2408
Pastor: Robert Karson
Pastor: Douglas Totter
Pastor: Daniel Mercado 36 Smith St.
Long Island Marthoma Church Office: (516) 442-7227
Parsonage: (516) 208-3523
President Vicar: the Rev. Shaji Kochummen 2350 Merrick Ave.
Merrick United Methodist Church (516) 378-9222
Pastor: Lucie wa Mbiya
Pastor: Rev. Akio Iyoda 1425 Merrick Ave.
Roman Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart (516) 379-1356
Pastor: Rev. Stephen Brigandi
Associate Pastor: Rev. Peter Sarpong 720 Merrick Ave.
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (516) 379-1368
Priest: the Rev. Father Nikiforos Fakinos
Church School Director: Tom Arianas
Church School Director: Panagiota Perlegis 2421 Hewlett Ave.
St. John’s Lutheran Church (516) 379-3858
Pastor: the Rev. Perry J. Kirschbaum 1 Van Roo Ave.
The Parish Family of Curé of Ars
The Catholic 'Field Hospital' of Merrick (516) 623-1400
Pastor: Monsignor Frank Caldwell 2323 Merrick Ave.
Synagogues
Chabad Center for Jewish Life (516) 833-3057
Director: Rabbi Shimon Kramer
Program Director: Chanie Kramer 2174 Hewlett Ave., Suite 101
Congregation Beth Ohr (Merged with Temple Israel of South Merrick) (516) 781-3072
Rabbi: Rishe Groner 2550 S. Center Ave., Bellmore 11710
Congregation Ohav Sholom (Affiliated with the Orthodox Union) (516) 378-1988
Temple Beth Am of Merrick and Bellmore (Reform) (516) 378-3477
Rabbi: Michael Baum 2377 Merrick Ave.
Young Israel of Merrick (516) 378-2573
Rabbi: Daniel Haramati
President: Stuart Daitch 107 S. Hewlett Ave.
The flagpole was restored by American Flag and Flag Pole services, and repositioned behind a World War I memorial, that was also
in the summer of 2022. Above, Joe Baker and John Pinto, president of the Historical Society of the Merricks, in front of the flag pole.
Flying through the fabric of time
By Jordan Vallone
LWhether the story is entirely true or not doesn’t matter to longtime Merokeans, because the fact that the historic flagpole is well over 200-years-old makes the unique adornment to the already historic library’s property even more special.
ongtime residents of Merrick know and love the community for many reasons. The settlement of the Merricks dates back to the 1600s, and the town people live in today is a treasure trove, shrouded in history — and sometimes, the most interesting things are hidden from plain site.
Thanks to the efforts of the Historical Society of the Merricks, a historic flagpole was restored. It is believed to be from the 1800s, although it may be older than that.
The flagpole, for many years, has sat outside of the Old Merrick
historic flagpole in Merrick stands on the property of the Old Merrick Library, which is also a historical site in the Town of Hemsptead. The pole is believed to be from the 1800s, although it could be older.
Jordan Vallone/Herald
refurbished
A
Library, which is on the south side of Merrick Avenue. The library itself is another gem, and is a protected historical site in the Town of Hempstead. The new library is a few blocks north, closer to Sunrise Highway.
Originally, the flagpole was positioned in the corner of the property, and hidden by trees and other shrubbery. The historical society moved it, so that it now sits behind a World War I Memorial, restored as part of an Eagle Scout project during the summer of 2022.
The historical society, which is run by its president John Pinto, estimates that the flagpole originally sat on the corner of Babylon Turnpike and Meadowbrook Road, north of Sunrise Highway. There used to be a general store and stagecoach stop at this location and it is widely believed that George Washington, when he went on a tour of Long Island in the late 1700s, stopped at that very store.
Whether the story is entirely true or not doesn’t matter to longtime Merokeans, because the fact that the historic flagpole is well over 200-years-old, makes the unique adornment to the already historic library’s property even more special.
Restoration work on the pole was completed last year by American Flag and Flag Pole services, which adorned it with a new flag, and a solar powered light, so that the flag can always be flown.
There were hopes that temporarily, a Civil War-era flag that the historical society possesses could be flown on the restored pole, but unfortunately, the flag has many rips in it. It is safely stored inside of a box with a glass top, so a viewer can still see the flag inside.
To view the restored flagpole, at its new and final location, visit 2639 Merrick Ave., Merrick.
The Historical Society of the Merricks also possesses a Civil War-era flag. Unfortunately, it's too fragile to be on the flagpole.
A summer haven,
MECA is a South Shore gem
By Jordan Vallone
Nestled discreetly off of Shore Road, the Merrick Estates Civic Association maintains one of Merrick’s best hidden gems: a sparkling oasis in the form of a pool and community center. Known colloquially as just simply “MECA,” the membership-style club has been a staple in South Merrick for 65 years, and summer after summer, families keep coming back to take in all the spot has to offer.
MECA boasts a private pool, play areas, beach volleyball courts and additional recreational facilities, while offering fantastic views of the East Bay and more. A classy spot, meant for relaxation, it embodies what South Shore living is all about. When the club was originally founded, residents who lived in a certain proximity to the pool were bond holders, Geoffrey Sherman, the civic association’s president explained. Now, fami-
Continued on page 18
MECA's improvements over the years reflect the civic association's dedication to preserving and enhancing a beloved gem in South Merrick, while maintaining the charm and camaraderie that have made it special for 65 years.
is
Photos by Tim Baker/Herald
Emma Halpern 6, Carter Halpern 4, Kyla Friedland 7, Khloe Friedland, 5, have a blast on MECA’s beach volleyball court, which
right along the water.
lies obtain memberships, allowing them to soak in all its perks. Most of MECA’s members live in the immediate peninsula the pool is located on, but there’s no rule that says you need to live in Merrick to join. Plenty of its members come from Bellmore and surrounding areas.
The summer season for MECA unofficially begins Memorial Day weekend, and leading up to the end of a school year, the pool and clubhouse are open on weekends and other holidays, like Juneteenth. Once school is officially over, the pool is open from
MECA offers its members a place to unwind on hot days. Located along the East Bay, visitors can enjoy stellar views of Merrick’s waterways and more.
It’s always a great summer day when you’re at MECA, the Merrick Estate Civic Association’s pool. Whether families are cooling off or taking part in other activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Fred Geoffrion, and his son, also Fred Geoffrion, took a dip in the Olympic-sized main swimming area.
11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, weather permitting, and for scheduled events that take place in the evening.
MECA is completely volunteer-run, although its board does work with a pool management company that handles the hiring of roles such as maintenance workers and lifeguards, among other positions.
While the clubs's purpose has always been to offer members a summer haven, there have been changes over the last five years that have greatly enhanced the member experience. Renovations to the facility’s bathrooms, a revamp of the pool and the installation of a beverage station, among other things, have boosted the appeal of the recreational center.
“MECA is thriving,” Sherman said.“It’s really grown over the years in popularity.”
Throughout the summer, pool members not only enjoy plenty
of time to swim during the day, but a variety of social events and activities that are planned by the board. Outside groups can also rent the facility for gatherings, like graduation parties. For major holiday weekends during the summer, MECA hosts barbecues too.
Children’s activities take place all summer, and many enertainers also stop by on a regular basis. Movie nights under the stars and more all make for a fun and enjoyable summer experience.
Most recently, the kiddie pool was redone and new diving boards were put in. A brandnew water filtration system was also installed, Sherman said, so people can refill their reusable water bottles all day long. A fridge and freezer is also available so families can keep any food they bring cool throughout the day.
Improvements and additions over the years to MECA stand as a testament to the civic association’s dedication to preserving and enhancing a treasured spot in Merrick. As the retreat continues to grow, evolve and embrace new generations, it holds on to the charm and camaraderie that have made it a beloved gem in South Merrick for 65 years. For more on the association and information on membership, visit MECAPool.com, or email info@mecapool. com with any specific questions or concerns.
Stacey and Michael, with their children Cameron, 11 months, and Harlow, 3, from Merrick, enjoy a day in the pool.
Cousins Austin Wilichinsky, 7, and Levi Tucker, 8, lined up their shots on MECA’s basketball courts.
Clubs & OrganizatiOns
All addresses are Merrick, 11566, unless otherwise noted.
general
Circle of Hope (516) 833-3057
Rabbi: Shimon Kramer 2174 Hewlett Ave., Suite 101 ChabadJewishLife.org
Knights of Columbus Council no. 3689 (516) 785-9407
Grand Knight: Vincent Palazzolo 101 Frederick Ave. Bellmore 11710
Knights of Columbus Council no. 6561 (516) 679-5639
Grand Knight: Ed Ronan
Jordan Vallone/Herald
The Merrick community gathered for an Earth Day-inspired clean-up at the Merrick gazebo, thanks to efforts led by the Merrick Community Civic Association. Immediate Past
President Joe Baker with President Berta Weinstein, and her husband Joseph Weinstein at the clean-up.
Merrick Park
Homeowners a ssociation (516) 379-3232
President: Barry Fox
P.O. Box 178
north and Central Merrick Community a ssociation (516) 972-6988
Legislative Office Building 806, Albany, N.Y. 12247 (518) 455-3161
In many ways, putting out a newspaper each week is an interactive process. We need your participation to do our job, so we offer you — our readers and partners — a reminder of how and when to reach us.
For news of upcoming events sponsored by civic, service, religious or community organizations, the deadline is 10 a.m. the Friday before publication. We also welcome news of your family life, your business life and your social life. We accept obituaries and Neighbors in the News items, including awards, honors, births, graduations, marriages and promotions. These items are printed at no charge to you.
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Jordan Vallone • Senior Editor
Email: jvallone@liherald.com
Mail: Merrick Herald, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
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Senior Editor: Jordan Vallone (jvallone@liherald.com)
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Cheers to charity:
Bourbon & Brews
gives back to Merrick
I think it’s important for anyone who’s in the position to give back to do so. I owe it to the staff and the people around me.
By Jordan Vallone
Good drinks, good times, and a lively atmosphere all make Bourbon & Brews, a craft beer and bourbon bar in Merrick, a community hotspot. But the local eatery has also left a lasting impression on the hamlet, as its charitable ways keep people coming back.
Owner John Amaruso, who grew up in Merrick, opened Bourbon & Brews in 2019. It was a former dive bar, that his parents actually owned for about six years during his youth, and he grew up just a few blocks away. When he acquired the restaurant, it underwent extensive renovations, and he said it felt like “a full-circle story.”
Tim Baker/Herald
Bourbon & Brews, a craft beer and bourbon bar in North Merrick, is a locally owned eatery on Merrick Avenue.
Owner John Amaruso grew up just blocks away from Bourbon & Brews — which at one point was a dive bar, owned by his parents.
Amaruso told the Herald he’s grateful to be in a position that allows him to give back to others. At the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Bourbon & Brews hosted Fundraiser Saturdays 20 percent of proceeds went to a variety of organizations, whether it was the Merrick Chamber of Commerce or the North Merrick Fire Department, among many others. “I think it’s important for anyone who’s in the position to give back to do so,” Amaruso said.“I owe it to the staff and the people around me.”
In more recent years, Bourbon & Brews has hosted charity comedy nights, featuring a slew of local entertainers. Proceeds have gone to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, because one of the eatery’s bartenders had a son undergoing treatment there.
And last summer, Bourbon & Brews spread its wings even further, reaching into the realm of giving back to furry friends. It partnered with Heavenly Angels Animal Rescue, hosting an outdoor puppy donation drive.
A foster-based animal rescue, Heavenly Angels is a registered nonprofit organization. Fifty percent of all proceeds raised at Bourbon & Brews went to benefit the rescue. The event raised $700 for the rescue, and featured a variety of pups hanging around.
So whether you’re looking for a good time or are in the mood to do a good deed be sure to stop by Bourbon & Brews. Bourbon & Brews isn't just a bar it's a testament to what a community can achieve when it comes together. And as long as there's a need to give back, you can bet that Amaruso and his team will be part of the charge one bourbon,
Outside the bar, whether people were stopping by to have a drink or meet some pups, smiles could be seen by all. Jackie Brigandi, above, with dog Jameson.
one beer, and one heartfelt gesture at a time.
Bourbon & Brews is at 361 Merrick Ave., Merrick. Visit BourbonBrewBar.com for more.
Bourbon & Brews has given back to pets, too. Last summer, it partnered with Heavenly Angels Animal Rescue for a puppy donation drive.
Discover a historical gem:
The Old Merrick Library
By Brian Norman
Aslice of Merrick history exists on the south side of Merrick Avenue, and many probably drive past it on a regular basis. Located just a minutes away from the Merrick Library, the Merrick Fire Department’s Empire Hose Company No. 3, and several synagogues and churches, is the Old Merrick Library — a great nod to the hamlet’s past.
The Merrick Library has a storied history and has occupied several locations over the decades. Early Merrick residents Edward C. Cammann and Richard P. Kent established the First Library of Merrick in 1891, in a barn on the William Hewlett Farm off Merrick Avenue, according the Merrick Library Archive.
In the hustle of modern life, it’s easy to overlook history right in front of us — like the Old Merrick Library, a profound link to the community’s roots, preserving its spirit for future generations.
Maureen Lennon/Herald
The Old Merrick Library is where the Historical Society of the Merricks hosts its annual Declaration of Independence reading on July 4. Fred Ness, president of the Wild Ones Society, Berta Weinstein, president of the South Merrick Community Civic Association, Betty Lippai, Joe Baker, trustee for the Historical Society, State Sen. Steve Rhoads, John Pinto, president of the Historical Society, and John Pinto, trustee of the Historical Society, at a recent reading.
In 1897, the Cammann family donated the property at Kirkwood and Merrick Avenue, and the “first permanent home” of the library, according to its historical marker, opened on May 8 of that year. Extensions were added in 1949 and 1956, and a new library opened in November 1962, just a block away, on the corner of Narwood and Merrick. A new facility opened at the Narwood Avenue location in 2005.
The 1897 building is still here, and was used as a temporary library during construction of the newer buildings. After a fire in 2004, its interior was refurbished.
An accredited New York State Historical Site, the Old Merrick Library stands out as a true gem that reflects its ongoing historic significance. Its front lawn houses a World War I memorial that was recently revamped during an Eagle Scout project.
Inside, the Historical Society of the Merricks has a handful of artifacts and documents, including a Civil War-era American flag and an antique pipe organ, which was built in Merrick at the Midmer-Losh Organ Company. This famous organ company crafted its instruments just north of what is now the Merrick LIRR station.
Today, the Historical Society utilizes the property’s exterior for beloved events, including its annual Declaration of Independence reading.
Throughout the hustle of modern day life, it’s easy to overlook history right in from of our eyes, which is exactly what the Old Merrick Library represents. It offers the community a profound connection to its roots, preserving the spirit of the hamlet for future generations.
Joe Baker, the former interim Historical Society president and a current trustee, spoke during the Declaration of Independence reading.
Jordan Vallone/Herald
Inside, the Historical Society of the Merricks stores a number of items, such as an organ built at the Midemer-Losh Organ Company — just north of where the library stands on the south side of Merrick Avenue.
Wild Ones:
Environmentalists
doing good for the community
By Brian Norman
Organizations that do good work can often be taken for granted or go unseen, but right here in Merrick, there’s an environmental group dedicated to making a difference.
If you’re cutting a tree down, you need to replace it. It’s not just about your property; it affects the whole community.
Over the past few years, residents of Merrick became increasingly concerned about the decline in trees, not only in their communities but throughout Long Island. The issue has lead to many meetings and discussions talking about the pivotal role that trees play in our community.
The solution? Wild Ones.
A national environmental organization, founded in 1977, its over 10,000 members around the country are united in their mission to promote environmentally sound landscaping practices and preserve biodiversity. The Merrick chapter was formed with the goal of creating stricter tree removal guidelines in the Town of Hempstead, as well as informing residents of the importance of trees and maintaining the community's biodiversity.
nationally.
Herald file photo
The organization partners with environmental experts. Olivia Calandra, an arborist, discussed the unique characteristcs of a maple leaf with members of Wild Ones.
The Merrick chapter is already making strides locally, it’s part of a larger organization that has 10,000 members
In the short time the organiztion has existed on Long Island, Wild Ones has already started to create an impact here, hosting numerous events to inform folks about the importance of trees. Its “Walkie Talkie” events provide those who participate an opportunity to stretch their legs, and learn about trees at the same time. Trained arborists lead both members and residents through informative walks, educating participants about why trees are so vital to maintaining thriving neighborhoods and best practices to care for trees that we see around Long Island.
“We’ve had a rash of tree cutting,” Frederick Nass, the chapter’s president, said.“We understand people want to have a swimming pool, but if you’re cutting a tree down, you
need to replace it. It’s not just what you’re doing to your own property; it affects people around you and affects the community, so that’s what we’re trying to encourage people to understand.
“It’s something we all have to focus on for our neighbors and the health of the community.”
Wild Ones is also actively engaging with local officials, advocating for stricter tree removal laws throughout the Town of Hempstead, aiming to revise local guidelines.
To learn more about the organization, visit WildOnes.org or to reach out to the Merrick chapter through wildoneslongisland@gmail.com.
Wild Ones has been an integral part of Merrick since 2022, educating the community on the importance of trees. It hosts “Walkie Talkie” events, in which residents can participate in a walking tour to learn about the local environment.
Gregory Massimi 332 Broadway Bethpage NY 11714 (516) 719-0909
gm@tlccompanions.com tlccompanions.com
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP
Thomas Weiss
3000 Marcus Ave. Lake Success NY 11042 (516) 437-4385 tweiss@vmmlegal.com vmmlegal.com
Wild Ones Long Island Chapter
Frederick Nass 27 Alfred Road West (516) 208-6997 wildoneslongisland@gmail.com longisland.wildones.org
WIN Home Inspections
Steven Enella 1643 Hendrickson Ave. (516) 221-2023 senella@wini.com wini.com/merrick
Giving Birth? Look No Further than the South Shore’s Only High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care
Mothers looking for a hospital at which to give birth should consider the quality indicators used by U.S. News & World Report ® to determine institutions deemed High Performing for Maternity care.
Mount Sinai South Nassau is the only South Shore hospital to earn the rating of High Performing based on eight key measures:
