Just Sayin': Paving roads, online betting, social security scare
Extra work might have helped Eisenhower Park roadway look better. Credit: Getty Images/constantgardener
Online betting just the latest vice OKd
Our state government has legalized what were formally the hallmarks of organized crime.
Online sports betting and other types of gambling are merely the latest incursions. Casinos abound. Legalized marijuana is here. We have Off-Track Betting. And the state lottery has replaced the “numbers” racket.
The state has applied the adage: “If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.”
— Michael J. Genzale, Shoreham
A frightful time with Social Security pay
I was certain that I was going into cardiac arrest after reading a letter from Social Security I received in mid-April. Here’s only part of it:
“What you should know: We changed your monthly benefit to $75.70 as of April 2024. We found that your prior benefit amount was incorrect.” I was ready to return the two swimsuits I had just purchased.
“If you disagree with the decision: You have the right to appeal . . . You have 60 days to ask for an appeal in writing” and “If you want reconsideration, go to the website.”
Thank goodness I am technologically challenged and opted to call the number provided. I was informed that the $75.70 is only the widow’s portion — and my own normal benefit remains the same.
Doesn’t anyone at Social Security read these inaccurate and unnerving notices? With all of the scammers targeting seniors, that was my first thought. I’m glad it turned out to be legit.
— Suzanne Germaine, Massapequa Park
Repaving
The roadway at Eisenhower Park was repaved to make a good impression for the 2024 cricket Men’s T20 World Cup in June [“Finish full paving at Eisenhower Park,” Just Sayin’, April 20]. Where was quality control? Why wasn’t the whole roadway made to look uniform? It looks pathetic.
I’ve lived in East Meadow more than 45 years, and I am embarrassed by the finished product of this roadway. I know Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is looking to save some of the $10 million earmarked for the county’s 125th anniversary, but how much would it cost to use a few cans of blacktop sealer, like many use on home driveways, to make a unified-looking roadway?
— Maria Lieber, East Meadow
We’ve been asking for repaving in North Bellmore for several years, but we don’t have a tournament going on. I can peel the street up with my hands. Also, besides the ongoing cricket tournament, Eisenhower Park will be closed to golfers for 10 days.
All residents who support the park with many rounds of golf will be shut out of our recreation. Our green fees and taxes pay for our park. It’s hard getting a tee time at Bethpage State Park’s golf courses, so our recourse might be a 30- to 40-mile ride east for golf. It’s not fair.
— Bernie Kugler, North Bellmore
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