On Thursday, Nov. 22, we celebrated Thanksgiving. This year was different. As Mineolians, we are thankful to the employees and volunteers of the Village of Mineola.
Monday, Oct. 29 will be remembered, as well as the name “Sandy.” Sandy came onto Long Island with such power that residents lost homes, automobiles and precious memorabilia. Hurricanes before were always remembered. However, Sandy left its mark for generations to come. The winds swept our trees down with such force that we lost power in most of the village. We had no phones, or cell phones. Hopefully, you had a battery powered radio as a means of information.
Without delay, our department of public works, which included, the water, highway, park and sanitation departments, our volunteer fire department, including firemen, junior firemen and ladies auxiliary, volunteer ambulance corps, Mineola auxiliary police and village hall employees all took action. Communication was saved by moving the administration to the fire headquarters on Washington Avenue.
We are so fortunate in Mineola to have employees and volunteers who care about our village. The village came first, even before their own families and their own personal safety. Public works and the fire departments were moving tree limbs the best they could to keep streets open and checking on seniors and those who were not able to care for themselves.
Mineola neighbors came forward to share electricity and food and to ask ,”can I help you?”
I always prided myself that we have the best people in Mineola, public servants and residents alike. The storm that we has endured has proven this. Thankfully, we were able to continue our water and sewer service without interruption. All that we take for granted.
LIPA is another story. We pay high rates without the services. Our electric bill came on time. No delay there. Utility companies from neighboring states came to our rescue. The workers from Alabama, who restored service to our block were courteous, congenial and very informative. Thank you for your help.
When you see our village employees, just remember what kind of job they did for each and everyone of us and say, Thank you. My family and I are very proud of these people and say thank you very much for your hard work.
John P. Colbert
Mineola
