Supports Crupi, Margolin

To the Editor:

For the past four years, I have lived in the Gibson section of Valley Stream. About one and a half years ago, I decided to begin a civic association (the Gibson Community Association, www.gibsoncommunity.com). In the beginning, I was unsure about how to meet people in the community who were willing to work to make their community a better place. Just when I was about to call it quits, I noticed a letter published in the Herald announcing a meeting at the Gibson Train station regarding FEMA flood maps. After contacting the woman in charge of organizing the meeting, I decided to attend and share my thoughts. 

Immediately, Carol Crupi took charge of the meetings and took the brunt of the responsibility of organizing this growing movement. With what began as a meeting of six Gibson residents in the parking lot of a train station, Carol Crupi transformed into a meeting of hundreds at Valley Stream Village Hall. In her own time, on weekends and after work at night, Carol took the time to fight against a wrong that was being perpetrated against the residents of Valley Stream. Carol commanded the respect of village and FEMA representatives and drew much needed attention to an issue that has greatly affected the lives of village residents. 

I can honestly say that were it not for Carol Crupi, the FEMA issues would have been dead in the water a long time ago. Noturrent village representatives, she has garnered the respect of senators and congresspersons. In fact, for these efforts, she was named Person of the Year by the Valley Stream Herald. Carol restored in me the belief that one person can make a difference.

Joe Margolin is another Valley Stream resident who joined the FEMA movement from the beginning. He has fought tirelessly for this cause and has become well known in most village circles. I can honestly say that I have never met a person with a greater passion for fighting for what is right and just. Joe Margolin is an honest, just and moral individual who has spent his entire life fighting for what he believes in. 

Over the past year, I have grown close with both Carol and Joe and it is my relationship with them that has inspired me to become more involved in my community and the fight to make Valley Stream a better place. I endorse both of them wholeheartedly and without reservation in their continuing efforts to fight for the rights and issues of Valley Stream residents.

James Giordano

Valley Stream