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A volunteer crew of 50 kids and parents took part in the second Middle Village Metropolitan Avenue Cleanup on Sunday, Sept. 15, collecting trash to help beautify the community.
The beautification effort, led by Paul Pogozelski, president of the Middle Village Property Owners and Residents Association and the Middle Village Players Roller Hockey League, aims to bring the community together for cleaner streets and neighborhood camaraderie.
He said helping to keep Metropolitan Avenue clean benefits the area by increasing foot traffic to the businesses and creating a stronger sense of community.
“Overall, I hope we can inspire everyone in the neighborhood to take pride in our main street, Metropolitan Avenue, and patronize our shops,” Pogozelski shared.
Assembly Member Andrew Hevesi and State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., who showed their support at last month’s inaugural event, returned to back the cleanup effort once again.
Both legislators and their staff rolled up their sleeves and joined nearly 25 MVP Hockey League kids, tackling the tough job that few are willing to take on.
According to Pogozelski, Michael J. Roemmelt of Michaels Funeral Home on Metropolitan Avenue leads by example, inspiring others in the neighborhood.
On Sunday, Roemmelt not only set the standard for cleanliness on the avenue, but also took the time to engage with young volunteers, offering them refreshments and encouragement.
Pogozelski, a civic leader and hockey dad, also praised local businesses that maintain clean and welcoming storefronts, including Mario’s Meats and Gourmet Deli, Carlo’s Pizza, Burrito Blvd, AJ’s Village Chemist, Opulence Glamour, Salvatore Crifasi Real Estate, The TaxAdvocate Group and Cross County Savings Bank.