L&M Publications
Merrick Life • Bellmore Life • Freeport-Baldwin Leader • Wantagh-Seaford Citizen

By   Fri, Jul 02, 2010

From John F. Kennedy High School's ceremony.

From Mepham High School's graduation ceremony:

From Calhoun High School's graduation ceremony:

By Doug Finlay   Wed, Jun 30, 2010

Residents ringing Smith Pond learned last week they will have to wait a bit longer to see the pond dredged of sediment and plants – causing stagnation and insect infestations – because of delays in both bidding contracts and finding a suitable place to dry the dredged silt.

Meanwhile, residents off of Bellmore Avenue, between Sunrise Highway and Merrick Road, also learned at last week’s public works meeting held by county Legislator David Denenberg that the road is being prepared for resurfacing only, and that next year engineers will redesign and rebuild the road to include curbs, new drainage and some new sidewalks. 

Brian Schneider, hydrogeologist for the Nassau County’s Department of Public Works was the evening’s most anticipated guest. He told attendees that while plans had been approved for Smith Pond’s dredging of 6,000 cubic yards of sediment that had built up since 1996 – when 11,000 cubic yards were last dredged from the pond – bidding had been delayed and would finally get underway beginning July 27.

He added that he expected the bidding to last four months. But he cautioned there was no guarantee the work would begin in November once the contractor was named. He said the contractor would have to determine whether it could dredge 6,000 cubic yards before full winter set in. 

For Jodi May, it remains an unbearable wait. Living on Smith Pond for 38 years, on the northernmost end of  pond where one of the streams feeds in, she told Bellmore Life that “There is a massive bug problem. It’s from the aquatic plants that are feeding the insects...I can’t spend five minutes outside in my backyard. The mosquitoes, the gnats, the bugs [are] horrendous,” said Ms. May. 

The problem started over the last  10 years, according to Ms. May, and has become progressively worse. 

“[The legislators are] saying now that we’re going to have to wait at least another summer before anything gets done. [It’s] unbearable,” she concluded. 

A resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “Right now [the lake] seems hopeless and polluted...It looks and smells like a sewer. It’s a shame.”

Mr. Schneider noted that among the  the goals of the Smith Pond revitalization is to rid the pond of invasive vegetation. However, those plants die off in the winter, he said, and would be easier to find and kill once they re-emerge in the spring.  

He said a suitable spot to place geodisks had finally been found in which to drain water from the sediment  back into the pond. Machines to dredge the two arms of the pond will pump sediment into the disks, which are tremendous  bags constructed of environmentally sound material, to allow water to seep out and back into the pond. The dredged sediment, he said, would be hauled off in trucks.

New technology
But most impressive in his remarks was a new technology he said will be implemented within the Smith Pond watershed.

The county is currently placing 850 new catchbasins – at a cost of $1.85 million from the county’s Environmental Bond Act –  into existing sewers, with the help of the Town of Hempstead, at the rate of 6-8 per day. These new installments will catch not only the floatables but also the sediment from entering the water stream,  he said.

He added that the catchbasins will also include “biological inoculents,”  or nutrient booms to capture both nitrogen and phosphorus from streetwater runoff.

He told the audience that both nitrogen and phosphorus were the nutrients responsible for the explosive growth of vegetation around the pond – as well as in it.

“We don’t know how well this technology will work at capturing those nutrients,” he said, adding that only after the pond has been dredged and tests done monthly for several months could it be determined if the new biological inoculents are working to keep the nutrients out. But, he added, “I’m confident that we’re going to make a significant impact [with the catchbasin inserts].” 

He said he hoped residents would feel inclined and proactive in calling the town or county whenever they saw the  catchbasins filled up with floatables and sediments, to have them removed to keep the catchbasins in good working order.  “The nutrient boom will also be replaceable,” Mr. Schneider said.

Another resident added, “It is our responsibility to keep [the lake] beautiful.”

Bellmore Avenue
Also under the spotlight at the meeting was Bellmore Avenue resurfacing. Already, crews have closed the road at certain times and are “raising the municipal castings” (manholes) in anticipation of new surfacing that will take place within weeks. 

“This is part of the $2 million 2009 capital plan” for Bellmore Avenue, explained Legislator Denenberg.  He said that, because of delays, only a resurfacing will take place this year. “It’s not an ideal situation to resurface a road before rehabilitating it,” he continued, but the county had “no choice.”

He said winter had devastated the road throughout the years to where it needed to be resurfaced; otherwise the county could face liability for the road’s mounting surface problems. Mr. Denenberg said that in 2011 the road would undergo a major rehabilitation by adding new curbs, drainage, sidewalks and pitch.

He noted that the Bellmore Avenue resurfacing was similar to a resurfacing taking place at Wantagh Avenue, between Sunrise Highway and Merrick Road. 

While funds to resurface Wantagh Avenue came from 2009’s general budget – part of the capitalization budget, according to the county Department of Public Works, an extra $500,000 was amended to the Wantagh Avenue budget to add “unspecified” items, said Mr. Denenberg.

Legislator Dennis Dunne told Bellmore Life he talked with several residents and store owners and got the $500,000 for new road improvements, such as curbs. These funds are not part of the resurfacing budget. Legislator Denenberg also told the audience that Merrick Road, which is undergoing a beautification from Eastern Avenue west to Centre Avenue, will get 15 new trees to replace the 14 Bradford pear trees that were removed recently.

“The pear trees were high-rooted trees that tore up the sidewalks of businesses in front of them.” He said the new trees would be deep-rooted trees that wouldn’t tear up the new brick pavers that were being put in to beautify Merrick Road.

- Lauren Urban also contributed to this story.         

By   Wed, Jun 30, 2010

by Debra Markowitz

The Long Island International Film Expo (LIIFE) will celebrate its 13th year from Thursday, July 8, through Sunday, July 18, at the Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Avenue, Bellmore. LIIFE will screen 156 short and feature-length independent films of all genres from all over the world. Panels and parties with networking opportunities will be available for all those working in the film and television industries. Those wishing to hobnob with celebrities will have ample opportunity as well. 

The star-studded Closing Party and Awards Ceremony will be held at the Bellmore Movies on Sunday, July 18.  Included will be a buffet, musical act, comedy by comedian Jackie “The Jokeman” Martling, and an awards ceremony where the winners receive their trophies and clips of the winning films are shown.   Presenters Actor Armand Assante will be accepting a Creative Achievement Award.  Other honorees and presenters are still signing on, but so far the following presenters have confirmed: Jackie Martling (formerly of the Howard Stern show and now with his own Sirius Satellite radio show), Brian O’Halloran (“Clerks”), Sharon Angela (“The Sopranos”), Jill Nicolini (WPIX-TV), Lenny Venito (“The Knights of Prosperity”), Lou Martini Jr. (“The Sopranos”), Anthony Mangano (“NYPD Blue”) and Robert Clohessy (“Boardwalk Empire” and “Pal Joey”).  

And what do you do when the festival is over? Attend the AfterLIIFE party in the Filmmakers Lounge, of course. LIIFE will have its traditional panels on scriptwriting, film distribution and the filmmakers breakfast panel, but this year they have added a panel in association with DnA (Directors ‘n’ Actors from New York City) and a NYWIFT (New York Women in Film and Television) panel on “Women in Film.”  All panels are free except for the filmmakers breakfast, which has a nominal $5 charge.   The Q and A sessions with the filmmakers, following most of the movie blocks, are one of the biggest draws of the festival.   Films shown this year include those from Brazil, Africa, Turkey, Pakistan, Ireland, Japan, Russian Federation, Moscow, Australia, Sweden, Canada, Spain, Cameroon, France, China, South Korea, Italy, Germany, Argentina and the United States, as well as all the local films from Long Island. Star-studded  films The films this year star such celebrities such as Aiden Quinn, Andie McDowell, William Shatner (“Star Trek”), Michael Biehn (“Terminator”), John Savage (“Carnavale”), John Hawkes (“Deadwood”), James McDaniel (“NYPD Blue”), Nikki Reed (“Twilight”), William Sadler (“The Green Mile”), DJ Qualls, Jenna Fisher (“The Office”), Chris O’Donnell, Ron Leibman, Lesley Ann Warren, Christopher Lloyd, John Lithgow, Catherine Hicks, Doug Jones, Anna Chlumsky, Peter Green (“The Bounty Hunter”), Samuel L. Jackson, Hayden Christensen, Amanda Peet, Jason Alexander, James Earl Jones, Mark Hamill, Abigail Breslin, Sandra Oh, Neil Armstrong, Raul Julia and Aida Tuturro. 

There are many ways to enjoy this year’s Long Island International Film Expo. Each film block costs $9, $7 for senior citizens, students and Filmmakers Connection members. A day pass is $20, and the Gold Pass is $60.  The Gold Pass includes every film block in the festival and has other perks for the ticket holder as well.   Senior citizens and students with appropriate ID will be able to take a friend in for free for any of the film blocks that are held from Monday- Friday and begin before 5 p.m. for a 2-for-1 special.  Gold Pass holders and Day Pass holders are eligible for free Long Island Rail Road tickets (while supplies last).  And LIRR ticket holders get $2 off of any event during July 8-18 (not to be combined with other offers and discounts). Celebrities always appear, schedule permitting, and while some may need to withdraw at the last minute due to the nature of the filming business, others will certainly sign on for the same reason as the festival gets closer.

The schedule of 2010 LIIFE films and events is available at www.LongIslandFilm.com.  For information on the Long Island International Film Expo, you can visit www.LongIslandFilm.com, or call 783-3199.  

Debra Markowitz is the director of the Nassau County Film Office.

By   Wed, Jun 30, 2010

by Joni Caputo

On Wednesday, June 16, The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores presented scholarships to three outstanding graduating seniors from the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District at its general membership meeting.  Each scholarship recipient has achieved scholastically to the best of his or her ability, exhibited good character, is involved in school and community activities and has chosen to pursue a career in business. 

The three recipients are as follows:

Molly Conway of Calhoun High School is a remarkable young woman who is a high powered, inquisitive student.  Her success is a direct result of her hard work, a great study ethic and remaining very focused while enrolled in all Honors and  Advanced Placement courses.  Her academic success has led to her induction into the National Honor Society, of Math Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. What makes her stand out is her leadership and  sincerity.  She is a great athlete and was selected as Student  Athlete of the Month. Participating in cross country and winter and spring track, Molly is always a scoring runner in her events.  She dedicates her summers to Camp Anchor, where she spends six weeks, full time, volunteering as a camp counselor with disabled students and adults.   She gives much of herself in terms of   community service, and has participated in the Camp Adventure Walkathon, St. Baldricks and the Long Island Marathon.  Molly is a respectful, caring, considerate and genuine young woman and her teachers have no doubts that she will achieve success during her college years.

Matthew Smith of Kennedy High School is determined, respectful and courteous. He displays a sense of initiative toward his endeavors and is always looking for ways in which he can improve. Matthew made appropriate use of every resource and opportunity that was available and never hesitated to ask for help when necessary. He has learned different strategies that he utilizes to help him succeed. His efforts are well recognized, and he is described by his teachers as “A pleasure to have in class.”   Matthew has also been awarded  “Student of the Quarter” this year for his outstanding achievement in the Carpentry program at Barry Tech.   His strong work ethic transcends outside of the classroom. As a ninth-grader, he started his own business  mowing lawns. Four years later, he became the owner of his own landscaping business. As the business grew, he added additional workers and equipment.   Within the community, Matthew also serves as a volunteer in the Bellmore Fire Department, dedicating time every Sunday to assist with the maintenance of equipment and participate in drills. Matthew will be continuing his studies in business at Nassau Community College this fall.  

Denise Gajda of Mepham High School is a remarkable young woman with a strong sense of determination and motivation. She continually strives to produce her best work as she puts forth genuine effort into all she pursues.  She contributes well-thought and insightful comments and questions to class discussions as she seeks understanding and enjoys the learning process. Denise is also comfortable advocating for herself and asking for assistance when needed.    As she has matured and grown as a student, Denise has taken on an increased level of rigor by enrolling in a college level accounting course her junior year. As a senior, she has continued to challenge herself by enrolling in college pre-calculus and Senior Experience.   Through the Senior Experience program, she had the opportunity to obtain an internship in the area she wishes to pursue. She is an active member of the school and local community. She has been involved with organizations such as S.A.D.D. [Students Against Destrucive Decision-making] and the Key Club, and has also devoted a great deal of time to volunteering at her church, acting as a hall monitor during religious education classes.  Denise is a responsible and dedicated employee who both babysits and works at a local accountant’s office after school, which just so happens to be the accounting office of Sandy Johnson our Past President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores.

By Jim Golding   Fri, Jul 02, 2010

An effort to acquire the Freeport Armory by the Village, the settlement of a suit against Nassau Civil Service over administration of the police chief test,  and the recurring theme of respect at board meetings were among the topics briefly discussed at the public comment segment of the village board’s June 21 meeting.

Responding to a question by Stephen Malone about a lawsuit filed against the Nassau Civil Service Commission over the administration of the test to select a police chief, Mayor Andrew Hardwick  said that Freeport won the lawsuit and the village “can use any of  the applicants” who tested successfully, rather than from a select group.    

Village Attorney Howard Colton noted that the decision would not be final until it is reviewed by a judge. The Leader attempted to contact Mr. Colton to clarify and expand on the issue, but he did not return our phone calls.     

Mr. Malone, the former deputy village attorney, also commented about an early morning fire June 20 at a single-family residence that left four families living there homeless. Three of the families were living there illegally. “Had the Building Department been permitted to do its job,” Mr. Malone said, “only one family would have been affected. The Building Department must be given the liberty to do its job and the war against over-occupancy must be renewed.”

Two pending bills now in the state Senate are of particular interest to Freeport. One would permit the mayor and trustees to approve or disapprove negotiated payments on real estate in compensation in place of property tax payments.    

Known as PILOTs (Payments in Lieu of Taxes), they may be negotiated in specific circumstances, such as when an arrangement is made for a corporation or institution to build a facility on public land without assuming ownership of the land.

The mayor summed up his opinion of this program as “We can’t afford such foolishness,” he said.

Meanwhile, the village may be interested in purchasing the National Guard Armory in Freeport. The state of New York is also considering a bill that would permit this transaction to take place  because the National Guard unit from Freeport is being consolidated with another unit in Farmingdale.

Mike Pomerico, executive director of the Police Athletic League that uses the facility, questioned why the village wanted to acquire the building and how it would maintain it.

Mayor Hardwick replied that because of limited office space at Village Hall, “We have people who need offices. There’s not enough space.” The mayor added, “The armory could be a jewel for Freeport.” Mr. Pomerico asked how much space the PAL would have for its use. The  mayor replied that “It has yet to be determined.”

In comments about the safety of cell phone towers and antennas, community activist Pat Rowen expressed concern about the locations of such towers in the village. She noted that a class action suit recently was brought by a group in the Bayville School District where she said “30 percent of the teachers and students got sick.” “Is there a check system in place?” she asked. Ms Rowan also wanted to know what distance is considered correct for their placement.

Building Department head Richard Brown said “There is no such thing as a correct distance,” but that the village works with the companies placing the antennas. Adele Fields asked why the televised village board meetings on the public access cable channels are not shown in their entirety. “The public should be able to see what goes on at a meeting in its entirety,” she commented. Mayor Hardwick responded that, because of technology and money issues, Cablevision “can’t show the entire meeting,” adding that “some stuff that goes on here is a lot of show business.” He continued, “We have to pick and choose until we have a system that plays the meeting in its entirety. We have to pick and choose. The problem is money. It’s not cheap.” 

Resident Alan Jay complained that The Leader has not printed anything negative about the teachers union either for Freeport and Baldwin. Trustee Carmen Pineyro, who also is a school board member, attempted to interrupt and tell Mr. Jay not to discuss school district issues at the village board meeting, but he would not be denied his 15 minutes of oratorical fame and continued. He did commend Superintendent Kishore Kuncham for his “most efficient” administering of the district.

Annette Dennis and Cora Blount each urged  the public to show respect at the board meetings Ms. Dennis urged people to “express their opinion in a respectful manner and be courteous to one another.” She added that speakers can “agree to disagree. There’s nothing wrong with conflict. Different ideas can only be beneficial to our community.” She added that “diversity includes a diversity of ideas.” Ms. Blount said she was “disgusted at the disrespect…at what was going on at these meetings” and called the stationing of two police officers at the entrance to the meeting room “a disgrace.”

Another speaker commented that the study of the Bible should be added to the high school curriculum as an elective, but was advised to attend the school board meeting. Earlene Skates complimented the administration for several changes and improvements made in the village, the arrival of new businesses including the International House of Pancakes, a medical center and a computer repair store.

By   Fri, Jul 02, 2010

It was a standing room only crowd that cheered as 431 seniors filed across the field on the sunny and hot graduation day from Freeport High School.  

Through tears and cheers, they accepted their diplomas and words of wisdom from Superintendent Dr. Kishore Kuncham, Principal Ernie Kight, Valedictorian Nathan Rodriguez, Salutatorian Samantha Hollinde, Assistant Principal Wendy Haise and class President Samone Clarke. “Be proactive, humble, committed and focus on your goals,”  Dr. Kuncham advised.  He told the graduates that “the most beautiful spot in the universe is within you. When you change the world inside you, you have already changed the outside world.” Ms. Hollinde declared, “It’s the dawn of a new day.” “High School has been a roller coaster ride – you want to get in  line to take one more time,” lamented Ms. Clarke.

Trust and friendship was Mr. Rodriguez’ theme. “Dreams can come true, but it takes work,” advised Mr. Kight. The Class of 2010 earned $63,750 in scholarships and awards, had 65 National Honor Society members and will attend 76 different college and universities. 

By Laura Schofer   Thu, Jul 01, 2010

Legend has it that the Liberty Bell rang out from the tower of Independence Hall summoning the citizens of Philadelphia to hear the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776.

The Liberty Bell has long been a symbol of our nation’s pursuit of freedom. In the 19th century, abolitionists used the bell to call for the end of slavery and in 1915 a replica of the bell was used to promote women’s suffrage. America has even sent this symbol of freedom abroad  In 1919, a Liberty Bell was given to people of Czechoslovakia.

The people of Berlin also received a Liberty Bell in 1950 signifying a “fight against communism in Europe.” There are also replicas of the Liberty Bell in Belgium, Israel, Japan and France.

Here at home, replicas of the Liberty Bell can be found in every state of the Union (except Pennsylvania where the original is found), the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. According to the Liberty Bell Museum website, the United States Department of Treasury, as part of a savings bond drive in 1950, had 55 full-sized replicas of the Liberty Bell made in the Paccard Foundry in Annecy-le-Vieux, France.

The bells were shipped as gifts to states and territories in the United States to be displayed and rung on patriotic occasions. Here in New York, our Liberty Bell is located in Albany at the State Education Department building.  “Proclaim Liberty throughout the land unto all the inhabitants thereof,” reads part of the inscription on the Liberty Bell. 

On the Fourth of July these 55 Liberty Bells will ring across the nation. Each bell will ring 13 times in honor of the patriots from the original 13 states. The Liberty Bell remains a symbol of unity for Americans, a reminder that each of us is “summoned” to work for the ideals of American democracy. 

Happy Birthday, America! Sound the bells, loud and clear!

By   Wed, Jun 30, 2010

The annual Fourth of July Parade will be held on Saturday, July 3, this year, announced Frederick E. Parola, second vice-president of the Fourth of July Parade Association, Inc.  

“Out of respect for parishioners attending services at the churches along our parade route, the parade association decided to hold the parade on Saturday, July 3, instead,” Mr. Parola reported. “Assembly for the parade will be behind the Wantagh 5 & 10 shopping center at 9:30 a.m., and step off is 10 a.m.,” he added. 

The parade, which is one of Nassau County’s largest, is a favorite tradition for Wantagh residents. “Nothing is quite like the view on Wantagh Avenue when you see beach chairs and blankets lined up to see the parade,” stated Ella Stevens, president of the Fourth of July Association.  “Lorraine Rhoads, who coordinates the parade, works tirelessly to enlist and synchronize all the marchers and floats that walk through Wantagh in celebration of our country’s birthday. From the smallest to the finest, Wantagh’s parade makes a hit in this community, and rightfully so,” Ms. Stevens added. 

The parade path begins on Park Avenue, proceeds north on Wantagh Avenue towards Island Park Road, where it heads east onto Beech Street to its final destination at the Wantagh Elementary School.  Along the route, the marchers and their floats pass by a panel of judges that await them in the showmobile that’s parked alongside the Wantagh Museum.  Part of the ceremony at the Beech Street school is the announcement of the winners of the awards, ranging from the most patriotic to the most creative, as judged by this panel.  Finally, the ceremony ends with the crowning of the new Miss Wantagh – another tradition – spotlighting the  young ladies who compete for the title.   

“The community eagerly awaits the parade each year and from our marchers to our Miss Wantagh semi-finalists, it’s easy to see why this is always a great day for Wantagh and its residents,” concluded Mr. Parola. 

By   Thu, Jul 01, 2010

Wantagh Seventh Squad detectives are investigating an attempted abduction that occurred on June 15,  at 6 p.m., in Wantagh.

According to detectives, an 8-year-old boy was riding his bike on Bayview Avenue near Bellport Avenue when he was approached by a black pickup truck occupied by two men, who attempted to coax him into their vehicle.  The driver, described as white/Hispanic, 20-30 years old, with long black hair pulled back into a ponytail, wearing a black top, and with tattoos on his arm, asked the victim if he wanted to go play soccer with him while motioning for him to get into the vehicle. 

The passenger is described as white, 20-30s, with light hair, wearing a black T-shirt. The victim fled to a nearby house for help. The suspects fled northbound on Bayview Avenue towards Merrick Road. Detectives ask anyone with information on the above incident to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.

By   Thu, Jul 01, 2010

by Lauren Urban

County Legislator David Denenberg spoke about the ongoing construction on Wantagh Avenue, Bellmore Avenue and Merrick Road, as well as at Wantagh and Cedar Creek Parks, at a meeting at North Bellmore Library last week. “Wantagh Avenue and Bellmore Avenue are part of this year’s resurfacing project,” explained Legislator Denenberg. 

In addition to money from last year’s budget for resurfacing, Wantagh Avenue received an additional $500,000 for “road improvements,” that could include curbing not included in the resurfacing budget. Despite the additional money, Wantagh Chamber of Commerce President Chris Brown is not completely satisfied. 

Legislator Denenberg said at the meeting that “the roadways are [normally] resurfaced every four or five years.” However, Mr. Brown, who has worked in the community for 25 years, told the legislator, “It has been about 20 years since Wantagh Avenue was repaved.” In a follow-up phone interview, Mr. Brown stated, “The roads have potholes, speedbumps and the curbs are completely destroyed. Some areas don’t even have curbs.” The new $500,000 improvements will replace about 900 feet of curb, said Mr. Brown. “[The community and I] have been fighting for improvements for 10 or 15 years now...[The current resurfacing] is like putting a Band-Aid on the problem. Why not get it all done [at once]?” Mr. Brown did, however, express his gratitude and appreciation to Legislators Denenberg and Dennis Dunne for the current improvements, and said that he understands there are financial restraints. “Hopefully, down the road, when there is better financial footing, we can get it all done,” Mr. Brown concluded. 

Bellmore Avenue is undergoing a large construction project as well. Not only is it being resurfaced, but it will need rehabilitation after that.  It is not “an ideal situation” to resurface the road before rehabilitating it, but there was “no choice,” said Legislator Denenberg, because the road was “devastated by the winter” and the government is liable. The road rehabilitation will aim to fix such elements as drainage and curbing.

Merrick Road will also be receiving more than just resurfacing; it will receive revitalization and beautification, funded from last year’s capital plan’s million-dollar extension. The revitalization/beautification project includes decorative and antique lighting, brick pavers, benches, receptacles and fixing the curbs.  High-rooted Bradford Pear trees that ruin the sidewalks are being replaced by other trees. The new trees will be aesthetically pleasing without blocking storefronts. The county plants trees twice a year, preferably in April and May.

Also included in reconstruction plans are Wantagh and Cedar Creek Parks. Wantagh Park recently received over $4 million for improvements. A new playground was installed, the tennis courts were resurfaced and the bulkheading was saved. In the future, the docks will be expanded to allow for an additional 40 boat slips, increasing boat owners’ chances in the lottery drawing.  Cedar Creek Park received $1 million for an all-purpose turf field, as well as new T-ball fields.

By   Wed, Jun 30, 2010

by Lauren Urban

Wantagh students bid fairwell to their black and gold humble abode when the 55th Annual Commencement exercises for Wantagh High School’s Class of 2010 took place on Lawrence Field, Friday, June 25, at 5:30 p.m. 

The  high school band, directed by Mindy Dragovich, led the procession of graduates, draped in black and gold, as they walked proudly around the track to their seats.   Wantagh High School Principal Carolyn Breivogel compared life to the many peaks and valleys of a  mountain in her welcoming speech and referenced lyrics from Miley Cyrus’ song “The Climb.”  “Class of 2010, enjoy your ‘climb’” she concluded.  

Jean Quinn, president of the Wantagh Board of Education, added to  Ms. Breivogel’s nature analogy. She said, “You, [the graduates] are the most precious natural resources our world has today.” Dr. Lydia Begley, superintendent of Wantagh public schools, asked the graduates, who she referred to as “the future leaders of America,” what motivates and inspires them. “The answer to this question lies deep within your own heart,” she said. 

Senior Class Co-Presidents Tracy Behringer and Jessica Way joked about their class’ hardships, such as losing the cafeteria’s infamous honey mustard during senior year. On a more serious note, the co-presidents expressed their appreciation for the school by announcing the class gift – a new barbecue grill for sporting events and funding for the 2011 golf team. Valedictorian Tyler Wasserman thanked his fifth grade teacher Mrs. Duffner, “who said [he would] be making this speech for eight years now.” Salutatorian Talia Cohen concluded, “As we move forward...we take with us the lessons we’ve learned in Wantagh...We can spread the Wantagh spirit wherever we go.” Congratulations,  Class of 2010!

Keep spreading the “Wantagh spirit”!

Lauren Urban is a 2008 graduate of Wantagh High School.

By   Mon, Jul 05, 2010

Longtime Merokian John Randazzo died on Friday, June 25, after a brief illness. He was 92 years old.

Mr. Randazzo is survived by his four sons, John, Joel, Jeffrey and Jerome, their respective wives and numerous grandchildren. He is predeceased by his wife, Betty. 

Mr. Randazzo was born in Sicily, Italy and immigrated to the United States. This self-made man, an electrical engineer by trade, was also a first-generation American who served his country during the Second World War. Mr. Randazzo was raised in Freeport and graduated from the Pratt Institute with a degree in electrical engineering. He did advanced study at Hofstra University, also in electrical engineering and worked for Freeport Electrical Contractors for many years. He also worked as an electrical inspector for Town of Hempstead’s building department.

Mr. Randazzo’s nephew, Jay Pitti,  noted that his uncle was the electrical inspector for the Marriott complex at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale. Mr. Randazzo moved to Merrick in 1948 and was an active member of Curé of Ars Roman Catholic Church. “He was very well loved by his family and friends,” said Mr. Pitti. “He was always there to help out when someone was in need.”

A Mass of Christian Burial took place on Wednesday, June 30. Interment is at Holy Rood Cemetery.

By   Thu, Jul 01, 2010

“Clang, clang, clang” – The alarm rang over the fields of the Merricks. Not much else, other than the cooing of  farm animals and the whoosh of mill wheels, cut through the air so that this sound definitely meant “something happening.”

They gathered around the piece of metal that the blacksmith had forged and they heard the news—a Declaration of Independence had recently been written and signed, and they heard it read through that July day in 1776.

We still gather today to read that inspiring document and to consider what the sentences meant then and what they mean now. 

The Historical Society of the Merricks will sponsor this year’s reading on Sunday, July 4, at 10 a.m. at the gazebo just west of Merrick Avenue near the train tracks.

For most of the last 35 years, this reading has helped Merokians to re-pledge their connection to their lives in a free country. You are urged to bring the entire family to the one-hour session, wherein participants will read a line aloud and also receive a complimentary copy of the Declaration of Independence, courtesy of State Senator Charles Fuschillo.

Those who wish to join the Historical Society of the Merricks are urged to write to them in care of the Merrick Library; or check them out on the web at www.merrickhistory.org.

-Lawrence Garfinkel

By   Fri, Jul 02, 2010

Merrick Kiwanis Scholarship Winners: The Merrick Kiwanis Scholarship night was held at La Piazza Restaurant in Merrick. Legislator Dave Denenberg commended the local high school students for their outstanding academic achievements and extracurricular activities, both at school and in the community. He also expressed his thanks to the Merrick Kiwanis Club members for their tireless efforts on behalf of all the  Merricks’ children. With him are Kiwanis President Tammy McLoughlin; Calhoun High School students Alyssa DeMonte, Alyssa Kurtzberg, James Levine, Amanda McLoughlin, Ashley Mulcahy, Anne Murphy, Michael Rosenthal, Kevin Ryan, Sunil Shah, Christine Stezenec, Claire Tucci, Aly Vanderwalde, Gabrielle Weil and Sierra Zorn; Kennedy High School students Rebecca Davidson, Hayley Wynne Shapiro  and Joseph Tsentner; and from Mepham High School Sarah Golub. Also in the photo is Norbert Billig.

By Laraine Milazzo   Thu, Jul 01, 2010

A proposed cell phone tower at the North Merrick Library was discussed at last week’s meeting of the North Merrick Civic Association at the library. Library Director Tom Witt introduced Tom Erwin of T-Mobile to speak to members about a proposal from the cell phone service provider.

Library board President William Pezzulo said that the present flag pole at the library needs replacement. Replacement poles average about $2,500 every two or three years. 

According to Mr. Erwin, T-Mobile is suggesting that the company will replace the pole free of charge. There is a “hole” in the North Merrick area that the service provider wants to fill. The new pole would stand 50 feet tall, with a diameter of 22 inches, and would house the circuitry for a T-Mobile cell antennae. T-Mobile would pay a leasing fee to the library, which could help defray costs for taxpayers.

Since the recent surreptitious installation of cell phone antennae in the Merricks, many people had a lot to say on the subject. Next G and Metro PCS, who set up equipment on Verizon telephone poles, have caused a great deal of anger in the area against cell phone service providers.

One resident wanted reassurance that T-Mobile would be the only provider on the flag pole. Mr. Erwin said, “We are in the business of selling service,” not providing equipment for other carriers.

A representative from Moms of Merrick, a group fighting the installation of cell antennae near homes and schools told Mr. Erwin, “I feel respected [that you have come to speak to us].” 

 However, she added that scientific uncertainty about health concerns would lead her to err on the side of safety. It was suggested that T-Mobile work with members of the community to find a better cell tower location than the front of the library.

Mr. Erwin said that the rays emitted by the T-Mobile antennae are no stronger than the signals from the UHF television channels 14 and up that were in use some years back.

In support of the cell company, one meeting attendee said, “Everyone who has a cell phone has implicitly voted for a cell phone tower.”

NMCA President Claudia Borecky asked Mr. Pezzulo to meet with the public again before making any decisions on the matter. It was agreed that he would.

POP reports

Problem-Oriented Police Officer Rob Segretto said 11 windshields were smashed in a recent spree. Police are questioning a suspect regarding the incident.

During the last month, police made three heroin arrests. Officer Segretto said that undercover police are working hard to identify the big dealers. If anyone sees anything suspicious, they are asked to call 911.

A North Merrick resident said furniture trucks are parking in the neighborhood to make some extra sales. Officer Segretto warned that a peddlers’ license is necessary to go into neighborhoods selling items.

In another incident, Officer Segretto warned that a young boy in Wantagh was approached by two men in a black car. The young boy got on his bicycle and peddled home quickly. After telling his parents about the incident, police were called to investigate.

John Lufrano, program director of the Neighborhood Watch Program, said that members are providing a lot of information to the police. If anyone prefers anonymity, they can call 911 and ask that they not be contacted by police. In the alternative, Mr. Lufrano suggested that members can call their block captains or him in order to pass information on to police.

A resident asked what could be done about the upcoming, illegal, Fourth of July fireworks. Again, Officer Segretto advised calling 911. “Every call gets answered,” said the officer.

Other business

NMCA President Borecky said that liaison Dan Yngstrom would be attending an upcoming meeting of the Hempstead Town Board to be sure the town will  install a stop sign on Camp Avenue and Chapin.

Members of the North Merrick community were urged to join the civic association if they have not already done so. Mr. Lufrano and Ms. Borecky said the annual family dues are $20. The funds collected go toward providing enhancements to the community,­­­ such as the Eggstravaganza for school children. Joining is easy – simply visit www.northmerrickcivic.com. The application as well as payment options are available at the site.

By   Thu, Jul 01, 2010

The Merrick Avenue Middle School Variety Show was a charity event to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research. They received approximately $1,500 from the MAMS Builders Club and Merrick Kiwanis from the successful event. 

The fundraiser was successful in large measure to local merchants who donated gift certificates or other items that were raffled off on the night of the show.  Those merchants included RS Jones, Synergy Fit Club, Luanne’s, the Outback, Printing Emporium, Dime Savings Bank of Williamsburgh and many more!

By Ilana Mele   Wed, Feb 09, 2011

South Shore Sounds entertainment blog features local music, comedy and more happening on our side of the island. Click here to see what's happening.

By   Tue, Jul 19, 2011

Combo rate card for all four papers - download .pdf

Bellmore Life rate card

Freeport-Baldwin Leader rate card

Merrick Life rate card

Wantagh-Seaford Citizen rate card

By   Tue, Jul 19, 2011

L&M Publications sales staff members

• Jill Bromberg
• Elaine Spiro
• Paul Roberts
• Sharon Johnson
• Christopher McBride

can be reached at 516-378-5320 or via fax 516-378-0287. You can also reach the central email for the sales staff at lmads@optimum.net, include your contact information for a prompt return call.

By   Tue, Jul 20, 2010

Editorial and Legal Advertising Deadlines
Merrick Life, Bellmore Life and the Freeport Baldwin Leader - Monday noon
The Wantagh- Seaford Citizen - Friday noon

Advertising Deadlines
All four papers - Friday 9 a.m.

Classifed Advertising Deadline
All four papers - Friday at noon

Life happens in your community…

.. so why not take advantage of it! Advertise your business, trade or special need in one or all of Life Publications’ four newspapers. The average weekly community paper remains in the reader’s home 4.3 days. 41% of all readers will keep the weekly issue in their home until the next edition arrives.

Advertisers aren’t our only customers. When deciding where to spend precious advertising dollars, you  should look for a publication that has proven loyal readership. Life Publications has developed such a loyalty among its subscribers by providing decades of journalistic  excellence. Each weekly issue features local news, sports, school news, letters to the editor, community events, religious calendars and much more.

Market penetration is more than just a numbers game. Numbers don’t lie, but they can be misleading. Some free circulation publications claim high market penetration and home delivery. They deliver mostly to front lawns, driveways, bushes, just about everywhere but into a mailbox. Life Publications’ four 

community newspapers are delivered to the home of our subscribers by the US Postal Service. This ensures your advertising won’t be left out in the rain.

In community newspapers, you get what you pay for. Our readers value our newspapers. That’s why they are paid subscribers.

When you advertise in Life Publication’s community newspapers your message reaches people who choose to receive it. That means your advertising dollar is stretched by not having to pay for wasted circulation. 

The rate card will explain all you need to know about advertising in Life Publications and how to get the most out of your advertising dollar.

All around the towns.

Life Publications’ The Freeport-Baldwin Leader, Merrick Life, The Wantagh-Seaford Citizen, and  Bellmore Life  have been an important part of the communities they serve since 1935, 1938, 1953 and 1964 respectively. 

They are locally owned and staffed by community residents, who also play an active role in civic associations such as the chambers of commerce.

Their achievements have been recognized by professional associations’ awards on the national and state levels, but even more meaningful are the many awards presented by the local organizations over the years, awards that prove the newspapers are truly valued in the communities they serve. 

Seaford, Wantagh, Bellmore, Merrick, Freeport and Baldwin are all suburban communities located on the south shore of Long Island – with beautiful waterfront homes and parks, excellent schools and many thriving establishments. It’s a nice area to visit and an even better place to live, with the added advantage of proximity to New York City. Each community has its own flavor, and the news in its newspaper is tailored just for it.

Contract and copy regulations

• Forwarding of an order is considered as an acceptance of all rates and conditions of the rate card.

• The publisher of Life Publications (L&M) reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisements at any time.

• Advertiser and advertising agency will indemnify and hold harmless L&M, its officers, agents, employees and contractors, for all contents supplied to publisher, including text, representations and illustrations of advertisements printed, and defamation, invasion of privacy, copyright infringement and plagiarism.

• We make every effort to avoid error, but neither L&M nor our advertisers are responsible for typographical errors. If at fault, L&M will publish a correction of that portion of the ad where the error appears if the error substantially affects the advertising message. Claims for an error must be made within 7 days of publication.

• The publisher reserves the right to insert the words “Paid Advertisement” above or below any advertisement.

• The advertiser agrees to pay any expense which the publisher may incur in collecting any balance due, including a reasonable attorney’s fee and other costs and charges for the collection there of. Venue for litigation would be Nassau County, State of New York.

Pre-printed inserts  get noticed.

Life Publications will insert and deliver your pre-printed inserts. We are a mailed publication so you are guaranteed home delivery to our paid subscribers. Most of our competitors deliver mainly by throwing their publication on a lawn, or in a bush, or a driveway. Our way your insert gets to people who want to read our newspaper and see what our advertisers offer. 

Make a splash with a dash of color.

Life Publications offers as a service to our advertisers select pages and sections that can be printed in color. A recent Newspaper Advertising Bureau study shows color sold 75% more merchandise than a black & white ad in the first week of the sale. See your advertising representative for more information on color rates.

Mechanical size requirements.

The following is a list of the standard advertising sizes used by Life Publications

Full Page (4 x 14”) 9.75” x 14”

3/4 V. (3 x 14”) 7.25” x 14”

3/4 H. (4 x 10 1/2”) 9.75” x 10.5”

2/3 H. (4 x 9”) 9.75” x9”

2/3 V. (3 x 12”) 7.25” x 12”

1/2 V. (3 x 9 1/8”) 7.25” x 9.125”

1/2 V. (2 x 14”) 4.75” x 14”

1/2 H. (4 x 6 7/8”) 9.75” x 6.875”

1/3 V. (2 x 9”) 4.75” x 9”

1/3 H. (3 x 6”) 7.25” x 6”

1/3 H. (4 x 4 1/2”) 9.75” x 4.5”

1/4 V. (2 x 6 7/8”) 4.75” x 6.875”

1/4 V. (1 x 14”) 2.25” x 14”

1/4 H. (3 x 4 5/8”) 7.25” x 4.625”

1/5 V. (2 x 5”) 4.75” x 5”

1/6 H. (2 x 4 3/8”) 4.75” x 4.375”

1/8 V. (1 x 6 7/8”) 2.25” x 6.875”

1/8 H. (2 x 3 3/8”) 4.75” x 3.375”

1/12 H. (2 x 2 1 /4”) 4.75” x 2.25”

1/16 V. (1 x 3 3/8”) 2.25” x 3.375”

1/16 H. (2 x 1 5/8”) 4.75” x 1.625”

Mechanical requirements

Width of typed page: 9 3/4” 

Depth of page: 14”

Single Column Width: 2 1/4” 

Width of each addit. column: same

4 columns to a page 

Column depth in lines: 196

Number of lines to a page: 784 

Printed by offset. JPEG and PDF files email to LMads@optimum.net.

Tear sheets, complete copy of publication, and media package available upon request.

Special issues throughout the year.

January - Martin Luther King

February - Brides/VALENTINES

March/APRIL

Spring - Home fashions, gardening, and of course, new wardrobes.

Home Improvements

May

Mother’s DAY - The second biggest retail season of the year.

Summer FUN - Promoting waterfront activities

June

Grads - Gifts and plans for the future.

Father’s DAY

August

Back to school - From preschool to grad school and careers.

October

Home Fashions - Making homes beautiful for the holidays

November

Holiday gift guide - The biggest retail season of the year. 

Agency Advertising rate information

Bellmore Life  - 1.21 Cents a line $16.94 Column inch $16.77 SAU

Merrick Life - 1.29 Cents a line $18.06 Column inch $17.88 SAU

The Citizen - 1.13 Cents a line   $15.82 Column inch       $15.66 SAU 

The Leader -  .70 Cents a line $9.80 Column inch $9.70 SAU

Rates above include 15% Agency commission. An additional 5% discount will be given if the same ad runs in three or more papers in the same week.

Position requests

Request for special positions will be given consideration. However we cannot guarantee position.

Classified ad rates

Line ads: $27 Box ads - 8 lines/25 words: $35

4x rate: $30/week 6x rate $27.50/Week

13x rate: $26/week 26x Rate: $23.50/week.

Display Classified

Merrick Life only: $38.12

Bellmore Life only: $35.80

The Citizen only: $31.50

The Leader only: $18.10

LEGAL NOTICES

Our newspapers fulfill the requirements of “newspapers in general circulation”. Your legal notice can run in Merrick Life, Bellmore Life, The Citizen or  The Leader. The cost is considerably less than the daily newspapers charge. Call your advertising representative for more information.

By   Wed, Jul 13, 2011

Bellmore Life Newspaper

• Rite-Stop, 1445 Newbridge Rd.
• 7-11, Newbridge Rd.
• 7-11, Jerusalem Ave.
• 7-11, North Jerusalem Road
• Stop & Shop, Jerusalem Ave.
• Blossom Farm Deli, 100 Bedford Ave.
• Bedford Ave. Deli, 105 Bedford Ave.
• Fresh Break, 2736 Merrick Rd.
• Cool Stop, 2825 Merrick Rd.
• Village Deli, 2655 Bellmore Ave
• Park Deli, 1420 Park Avenue, Merrick
• Cards Unlimited, 39 Merrick Avenue, Merrick

Freeport-Baldwin Leader

• Compare Foods - Merrick Rd. & Ocean Ave.
• Teamo - 223 Merrick Rd.
• Curiosity - 191 Atlantic Ave.
• 7-11 - 964 Merrick Rd., Baldwin
• Convenience Store - 363 Atlantic Ave.
• 7-11 - 145 Sunrise Hwy., Freeport
• Rite Stop - 376 Bayview Ave.
• 7-11 - 200 E. Merrick Rd., Freeport
• Bridge Side Deli - 1156 Atlantic Ave.

Merrick Life Newspaper

• Park Deli, 1420 Park Avenue
• 7-11, 1800 Merrick Avenue
• Cards & Smokes, 20 Merrick Avenue
• Brother’s Deli, 1341 Jerusalem Avenue
• Teamo, 1701 Merrick Road
• Stop & Shop, 1016 Park Avenue & Jerusalem Avenue
• Cards Unlimited, 39 Merrick Avenue
• 7-11, 203 Babylon Tpke & Sunrise Hwy
• From Me To You Cards & Candles , 1670 Merrick Road
• Iannuzzi, 1363 Jerusalem Avenue
• Caputo’s Cards, 383 Merrick Avenue
• Cards & Gifts, 1970 Merrick Road
• Akel’s Deli, 1874 Meadowbrook Road
• Bagel Man, 84 Merrick Avenue
• Gourmet Express, 2 Merrick Avenue
• Boswell’s, 1828 Merrick Avenue
• Ward’s Deli, 34 S. Babylon Turnpike
• Angelo & Joe’s, 373 Merrick Avenue
• Teamo Card & Gifts, 704 Merrick Avenue
• Smith Street Deli, 241 Smith Street

Wantagh-Seaford Citizen

• Beck’s Delicatessen, 1939 Wantagh Avenue
• Doc Brown’s Books, 2089 Wantagh Avenue
• The Buff Shop, 2095 Wantagh Avenue
• Friendly Card & Gift, 1906 Wantagh Avenue
• Kwik Stop, 2264 Wantagh Avenue
• The Lucky Lotto Store, 1247 Wantagh Avenue
• Mid Island Medical Supply, 2093 Wantagh Avenue
• Otto’s Delicatessen, 3580 Park Avenue
• Seven-Eleven, 3382 Park Avenue
• Rashi Cardstand Convenience, 3381 Merrick Road
• Tobacco Junction, 3300 Sunrise Hwy.
• Quick Picks, 2264 Wantagh Avenue
• Seaford Harbor Delicatessen, 3623 Bayview Street
• Seaford Chemists, 1696 Washington Avenue

By   Wed, Mar 02, 2011

L&M Publications is committed to safeguarding the personal information entrusted to us by our customers. This policy outlines the principles and practices  we follow in protecting your personal information.

This policy applies to L&M Publications and to any person providing services on our behalf. A copy of this policy is provided to any customer on request.

What is personal information?
Personal information means information about an identifiable individual. This includes an individual's name, home address and phone number, age, sex, marital or family status, an identifying number, financial information, educational history, etc.

What personal information do we collect?

We collect only the personal information that we need for the purposes of providing services to our clients, including personal information needed to prepare mailings and bill subscriptions and advertisements.

We normally collect client personal information directly from our clients. We may collect your information from other persons with your consent or as authorized by law.

We inform our clients, before or at the time of collecting personal information, of the purposes for which we are collecting the information. The only time we don't provide this notification is when a client volunteers information for an obvious purpose (for example, producing a credit card to pay when the information will be used only to process the payment).

Consent   

We ask for consent to collect, use or disclose client personal information, except in specific circumstances where collection, use or disclosure without consent is authorized or required by law. We may assume your consent in cases where you volunteer information for an obvious purpose.

We assume your consent to continue to use and, where applicable, disclose personal information that we have already collected, for the purpose for which the information was collected.

We ask for your express consent for some purposes and may not be able to provide certain services if you are unwilling to provide consent to the collection, use or disclosure of certain personal information. Where express consent is needed, we will normally ask clients to provide their consent orally (in person, by telephone), or in writing.

A client may withdraw consent to the use and disclosure of personal information at any time, unless the personal information is necessary for us to fulfill our legal obligations. We will respect your decision, but we may not be able to provide you with certain products and services if we do not have the necessary personal information.

We may collect, use or disclose client personal information without consent only as authorized by law.
   
How do we use and disclose personal information?

We use and disclose client personal information only for the purpose for which the information was collected, except as authorized by law. If we wish to use or disclose your personal information for any new business purpose, we will ask for your consent. We may not seek consent if the law allows this (e.g. the law allows organizations to use personal information without consent for the purpose of collecting a debt).           

What is personal employee information?

Personal employee information is personal information about an employee or volunteer which is collected, used or disclosed solely for the purposes of establishing, managing or terminating an employment relationship or a volunteer work relationship. Personal employee information may, in some circumstances, include a Social Security Number, a performance review, etc.       

We can collect, use and disclose your personal employee information without your consent only for the purposes of establishing, managing or ending the employment or volunteer relationship. We will provide current employees and volunteers with prior notice about what information we collect, use or disclose and our purpose for doing so.

What personal employee information do we collect, use and disclose?

We collect, use and disclose personal employee information to meet the following purposes:
• Determining eligibility for employment or volunteer work, including verifying qualifications and references

• Establishing development and training requirements

• Assessing performance and managing performance issues as they arise

• Administering pay and benefits (paid employees only)

• Processing employee work-related claims (e.g. benefits, workers’ compensation, insurance claims – paid employees only) 

• Complying with applicable laws

We only collect, use and disclose the amount and type of personal employee information that is reasonable to meet the above purposes.

The following is a list of personal employee information that we may collect, use and disclose to meet those purposes:

• Contact information such as your name, home address, telephone number

• Criminal background checks

• Employment or volunteer information such as your resume (including education background, work history and references), reference information and interview notes, letter of offer and acceptance of employment, policy acknowledgement forms, background verification information, workplace performance evaluations, emergency contacts, etc.

• Benefit information such as forms relating to applications or changes to health and insurance benefits including medical and dental care, life insurance, short and long term disability, etc. (paid employees only)

• Financial information, such as pay check deposit information and tax-related information, including Social Security Numbers (paid employees only)

• Other personal information required for the purposes of our employment or volunteer relationship

We will inform our employees and volunteers of any new purpose for which we will collect, use, or disclose personal employee information, or we will obtain your consent, before or at the time the information is collected.  

We will obtain your consent to collect, use and disclose your personal information for purposes unrelated to the employment or volunteer relationship.

What information do we provide for employment/volunteer references?
In some cases, after your employment or volunteer relationship with us ends, we will be contacted by other organizations and asked to provide a reference for you. It is our policy not to disclose personal information about our employees and volunteers to other organizations who request references without consent. The personal information we normally provide in a reference includes:

• Confirmation that an individual was an employee or volunteer, including the position, and date range of the employment or volunteering

• General information about an individual's job duties and information about the employee or volunteer's ability to perform job duties and success in the employment or volunteer relationship

How do we safeguard personal information?
We make every reasonable effort to ensure that personal information is accurate and complete. We rely on individuals to notify us if there is a change to their personal information that may affect their relationship with our organization. If you are aware of an error in our information about you, please let us know and we will correct it on request wherever possible. In some cases we may ask for a written request for correction.

We protect personal information in a manner appropriate for the sensitivity of the information. We make every reasonable effort to prevent any loss, misuse, disclosure or modification of personal information, as well as any unauthorized access to personal information. 

We use appropriate security measures when destroying personal information, including shredding paper records and permanently deleting electronic records.

We retain personal information only as long as is reasonable to fulfill the purposes for which the information was collected or for legal or business purposes.

Access to records containing personal information
Individuals have a right to access their own personal information in a record that is to the custody or under the control of L&M Publications, subject to some exceptions, such as information that would reveal personal information about another individual.

If we refuse a request in whole or in part, we will provide the reasons for the refusal. In some cases where exceptions to access apply, we may withhold that information and provide you with the remainder of the record. 

You may make a request for access to your personal information by writing to the publisher. You must provide sufficient information in your request to allow us to identify the information you are seeking.

You may also request information about our use of your personal information and any disclosure of that information to persons outside our organization. In addition, you may request a correction of an error or omission in your personal information.

We will respond to your request within 45 calendar days, unless an extension is granted. We may charge a reasonable fee to provide information, but not to make a correction. We do not charge fees when the request is for personal employee information. We will advise you of any fees that may apply before beginning to process your request.

Questions and complaints
If you have a question or concern about any collection, use or disclosure of personal information by L&M Publications, or about a request for access to your own personal information, please contact the publisher.