The Plainview-Old Bethpage community once again showed its generosity by contributing to the annual toy drive at the Plainview Water District. As it has done in years past, the Plainview Water District partnered with the Toys for Tots Foundation, sponsored by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. This year, the District hosted a dedicated drive-thru drop-off day to facilitate convenient toy donations. The District headquarters functioned as an official drop-off site for the foundation, successfully collecting more than 150 toys.

“The District is touched and extremely grateful for the level of participation and generosity from the members of this community,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “The Plainview-Old Bethpage residents always do their part to help out and participate in these great events. These contributions are going to make this holiday season more enjoyable for so many people, and that is what this effort and this time of year is all about.”

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve ‘Toys for Tots’ Foundation is a nonprofit organization that aims to provide all children across the United States with happiness and joy throughout the holiday season. Through the gift of a new toy, disadvantaged children will not be overlooked during the holidays, and will know that a community of people cares for them.

“We appreciate the community’s unwavering support in these endeavors year after year.” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “PWD is delighted to lead and take part in these important initiatives and contribute positively in any way possible. Thanks to the big-hearted POB community, many children will be able to smile this holiday season.”

Since the District started this partnership several years ago, hundreds of toys have been donated from the community to support this cause. The Plainview Water District thanks the Plainview-Old Bethpage community for their generosity and continued support.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to take part in my first Toys for Tot’s Drive at the PWD,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “We are immensely proud to continue to partner with our community that continues to radiate support and compassion. With the POB’s constant support, we have been able to plant seeds of joy for many children that needed it this holiday season.”

For additional information about the Plainview Water District, please call (516) 931-6469 or visit the Plainview Water District website at www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.

The Plainview Water District held its Annual Water Commissioner Election on Tuesday, December 12th. Commissioner Marc Laykind was reelected and will begin serving his new term on January 1, 2024.

PWD Staff is Equipped to Quickly Respond and Repair Any Breaks

As winter temperatures quickly approach, The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents that water main breaks are common during this time of year. However, residents of PWD can rest assured that the District’s skilled and highly trained staff is well-equipped to respond immediately to any such emergencies. The District’s staff is capable of quickly addressing these potentially emergency situations to a degree where nearby residents may not even know a break has occurred.

“Regions like ours, that experience extremely cold weather, are no stranger to water main breaks,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “The Plainview Water District is proud to have a team of experienced professionals who respond to water breaks 24/7. Our team is dedicated to resolving any water-related issues that may arise, ensuring that residents’ water service is restored promptly.”

As the case with all cold-weather climates, water main breaks are an unfortunate reality as they typically occur when there is movement in the soil surrounding the water pipes or a freeze/thawing condition. Water mains are installed below the frost line; however, when the soil shrinks or swells it places pressure on the pipes causing a break. Though the length of time to repair a leak varies from incident to incident depending on its severity and how quickly the leak can be located, PWD employees are trained to repair all types of breaks efficiently, quickly and safely.

“Although the District has implemented measures to detect main breaks as soon as possible, there are instances where they may go undetected due to various factors,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “If you suspect a water main break or any water-related problem in your home or community, please do not hesitate to contact us to report the situation.”

When water service is restored, residents may notice air in their pipes and the water may be discolored. The discoloration is not harmful, but can stain laundry. If you experience discolored water, let the cold water run from a faucet or tub at the closest area to your incoming service line for a few minutes or until it clears.

“Residents may experience a decrease in water pressure or discolored water due to water main breaks,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “Ensuring minimal interruptions to residents’ water service is of utmost importance at PWD. As such, our staff is committed to responding quickly to any breaks that occur, with dedicated crews assigned to this task around the clock.”

The Plainview Water District asks for residents’ help in reporting potential main breaks. Residents that notice areas of wetness along the curb, bubbling of water in the roadway or unexplainable icy conditions are encouraged to contact the Plainview Water District immediately at 516-931-6469.

If you have questions about preparing your home’s water system for the winter or general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive updates by filling out the form at www.plainviewwater.org or by following the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

As seen in the Mid-Island Times on November 30, 2023