New reporter on the beat in East Rockaway, Lynbrook

Hello Lynbrook and East Rockaway readers. My name is Nick Ciccone, and I am the newest reporter for the Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald. I’m thrilled to be getting an inside look at what makes this neighborhood tick.

I’m a recent graduate of Hofstra University, where I studied Film and English. In my time at Hofstra I took classes in film, psychology and broadcasting, as well as several other subjects. My interests were seemingly all over the place, until I discovered one common theme: storytelling.

I became obsessed with story structure and storytelling, and would read as much about it as time would allow. In part, that’s what has led me to my working for The Herald — I’m incredibly interested in the stories that these neighborhoods have to offer, and being able to share them with all of you.

Previously, I’ve worked for ABC as an intern, written film reviews, and worked as a production assistant. Additionally, I regularly contribute to a number of communal blogs and humor magazines.

When I’m not working, however, I enjoy watching movies, listening to music, and travelling. I’ve lived my entire life on Long Island near the Great South Bay, and the summertime is one of my favorite things about living in this community. There’s camaraderie among boaters of the area that I really enjoy, and I’m always struck by the wealth of natural beauty that the south shore of Long Island has to offer.

If I had any doubts about the character of this community, living through Hurricane Sandy certainly changed all of that. Almost everyone on Long Island has some interesting experience to share about weathering the storm back in 2012 — whether by cooking hot meals for one another, or helping with search and rescue, we all bonded over this shared experience. To me, this points to the strength of these closely-knit communities in which we live ­— and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I’m looking forward to being out and around the Lynbrook/East Rockaway area in the coming weeks. Please don’t hesitate to contact me, as I am still in the process of getting acquainted with the area. You may reach me at (516) 569-4000 EXT. 283, or drop me an email at nciccone@liherald.com. See you around!