Merokeans come together for Harvey victims

A lively group of locals came together to raise funds and gather supplies to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey on Saturday morning, at Bagel Boss on Merrick Road.

According to organizer Ron Steiger, the drive was “a big success, with over 40 large cartons of supplies collected, which were valued at near $15,000.

Organizers also collected checks for the American Red Cross in the amount of $923 — and people donating $50 or more were treated to a free bagel, Steiger said.

Sponsors included John Mascaro, of Bagel Boss and Craig Maltz, of Children’s Shoes, who “worked his backside off,” according to Steiger, and donated $3,000 worth of new children’s shoes. Volunteers included Dustin Ginsberg, Josh Dreyer, Shelley Schollmeyer, Assemblyman Dave McDonough and County Legislator Steve Rhoads.

“While some of us are going to concerts, vacationing, going to dinner and enjoying life, many families in Texas are not,” said Steiger. “They need our help … they need it now.”