This new millennium coincides with the 20th anniversary of Earth Day; a day to reflect upon all that is precious and scarce in our environment. Unfortunately, Long Island has seen dramatic change over the last three decades, from local farms and single lane roads to the development of nearly every available lot and a HOV lane on the LIE with sound barriers blocking our view of whatever remains of suburbia. Especially concerning, is the threat to our underground aquifer water recharge system as a result of developing every inch of surface area.

If you are concerned about compromises to your drinking water, take a few minutes of your time on April 22 to do something positive for your family and others. Enjoy the Earth Day Festivities in Nassau County in downtown Glen Cove or in Suffolk County at Southaven County Park; both promise to be informative and entertaining. Preceding these activities families are welcome to attend an Earth Day Rally for clean water from 9:20 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in downtown Oyster Bay near Town Hall. Environmentalists and civics will be protesting development atop the special ground water protection area including the Underhill site in Jericho, SUNY development, and other projects in the North Oyster Bay area.

Don't miss these opportunities to instill the importance of preservation in your children.

A happy and healthy Earth Day to all.

Carol Meschkow, president

Concerned Citizens of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Community