column

Adieu to Lynbrook and East Rockaway readers

Posted

I began working at the Herald in Oct. 2015, but I knew early on that Lynbrook and East Rockaway were two very special corners of Long Island.

It’s a daunting task starting as a reporter in an unfamiliar place. You’re completely by yourself — tasked with the tremendous responsibility of disseminating accurate information out into the community. I thought: What the hell can I tell these people about the place they live?

I was anxious, timid and eager to get my feet wet in the field, and the community welcomed me in with open arms. What followed, was the most enjoyable 10 months of my life so far.

I’ve crossed paths with people at pivotal moments of their lives, and have been fortunate enough to observe the inner workings of village government. It has been a learning experience that far exceeded my expectations.

Those who live, work and have built their families in these communities have displayed tremendous passion and effort towards ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to thrive. Whether it’s the school districts, the parent-teacher associations, the veterans, the community organizations, or the small business owners — these two towns have an incredible sense of place and community.

To residents among you reading this, consider yourselves privileged to live in this part of Nassau County. Both Lynbrook and East Rockaway’s village governments are embracing the future of suburbia — and it’s a particularly exciting time to live in either municipality.

I won’t be too far away.

I recently accepted a job as editor of the Valley Stream Herald — just next door. When I get hungry, you can bet I’ll grab lunch from the Burger Bandit or Greek Xpress. I’m looking forward to seeing the new Regal Theater light up the Five Corners, and the new developments that await East Rockaway’s business district. I’ll be just as eager to hear about the accomplishments of the class of 2017 in Lynbrook and East Rockaway — as well as the inevitable successes of the bright students I’ve already been fortunate enough to meet.

I’m eager to hear about what the future holds for Lynbrook and East Rockaway. The time I’ve spent in these communities is more than a job description — it’s part of my life. Getting to know you all has shaped who I am. This is all to say, thanks for being a part of it, and I’m always a phone call away.