Dear Resident,
As you may already be aware, Nassau County, and many other municipalities, are in the process of suing opioid manufacturers and distributors for the role they may have played in the opioid abuse epidemic we are facing in Nassau County and throughout the State of New York. In another effort to continue to fight for those who battle this addiction, I was very proud to introduce legislation that will created a special revenue fund for the settlement proceeds so that we can be assured they will be used for programs related to treatment, education and prevention. See the article from Newsday covering our press conference.
https://www.newsday.com/long-island/nassau/nassau-opiods-legislation-revenue-fund-1.50292353.
On another note, I believe many of us have a newfound sense of appreciation for what it means to be an American as the nation continues to move toward pre-pandemic conditions.
In the earlier stages of the pandemic, residents from all walks of life came together to cheer on and encourage our front-line workers and other essential workers who continued to provide vital services while much of the country was shut down. For the first time in recent memory, doctors and nurses were being celebrated alongside grocery store employees and truck drivers for their dedication in performing their duties in desperate and uncertain times.
Now with the 4th of July holiday approaching, we are given the opportunity to once again recognize the abundant freedoms we enjoy. As Americans, we are fortunate to not only live in a free democratic society, but to have access to numerous opportunities that others are not afforded in their respective countries. Despite the pandemic, which severely curtailed last year’s July 4th activities, the freedoms that our forefathers fought for have never wavered.
While we once again can celebrate our nation’s day of independence with barbecues and parades, surrounded by family and friends, please take a moment to reflect on everything we have been through over the last year and the many freedoms that we still have in this great nation.
My hope is that the last year has taught us to be kinder, more understanding of our neighbors, and a realization that we should focus on our similarities as Americans rather than our differences. This 4th of July, thank a veteran for his/her service to our nation while attending a community parade, enjoying a picnic in a beautiful park or while watching a patriotic fireworks display. Or just thank the first veteran you see, wherever that may be! Above all else, remember what it means to be an American and how fortunate we are to live in a country whose Constitution guarantees us the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable 4th of July. 😊
As always, please feel free to contact me with any thoughts and ideas you may have with respect to the County or on any particular issue that you think I may be able to assist you with. You may contact me at (516) 571-6214 or by email at LSchaefer@NassauCountyNY.gov .
Sincerely,
Laura M. Schaefer
Legislator, District 14