Community Corner
County Officially Renames Oceanside Park After Det. Luis Alvarez
The small park in Oceanside will be renamed in honor of the 9/11 first responder, who became a champion of helping those who were suffering.
On Monday, the Nassau County Legislature passed a resolution to rename Terrell Avenue Park in Oceanside after NYPD Det. Luis Alvarez, who died earlier this year from cancer he developed from working in the rubble of the World Trade Center after 9/11.
Alvarez was a detective with the NYPD's bomb squad, and responded to the rubble of the World Trade Center after Sept. 11, where he worked for three months. He developed cancer from his time on the pile, and became a champion of getting benefits for 9/11 first responders. Shortly before his death, he gave an impassioned speech to lawmakers on the House Judiciary subcommittee to give more funding to the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.
Alvarez died from colon cancer on July 29. He was mourned by thousands at his funeral.
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The resolution to rename the park in Alvarez's hometown of Oceanside was unanimously passed by the Legislature.
"This park will serve as a symbol and reminder of his sacrifice and unwavering fight for 9/11 first responders," said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran. "We look forward to working with his family to create a tranquil neighborhood space and memorial dedicated in his honor."
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The park is a one-acre property at the intersection of Terrell Avenue and Washington Avenue in Oceanside. It's a quiet area with a series of benches that front a stream.
"The outpouring of love and respect for Lou continues to be overwhelming to us all," Alvarez's family said in a statement when the plan to rename the park was first announced. "Lou was a very strong man and protector of family, friends and strangers. However, equally as important was the time he had to himself to quietly think and reflect. To have this beautiful meditation and reflection park in his hometown of Oceanside for adults and children to enjoy, is truly an honor to the legacy of Luis Alvarez as well as the entire Alvarez Family."
In addition to the park, the Town of Hempstead is also planning to rename the block where Alvarez lived in his honor.
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