Nassau Notebook: Legislative Redistricting, Thousands Run in LI Marathon

The following is a look back at some of the top stories in Nassau County over the past week.

Potential Legislative Redistricting

Nassau Democrats are accusing the majority Republican party of manipulating current legislative boundaries — as required by law after every census is released — to hold on to power for the next decade.

However, Republican leadership says the legislature must act as soon as possible to ensure that county residents are fairly represented by their government.

The proposed map splits the currently Republican-held Five Towns into two legislative districts — taking Woodmere, half of Cedarhurst and most of Inwood and placing them into a new western 19th district that goes north to Elmont.

Parts of Wantagh and Seaford would be added to Republican Denise Ford’s district, who currently serves Long Beach.

Merrick and Bellmore, which is currently in one district under Democrat Dave Denenberg, would be split into two districts, one of which would be combined with Democrat Joseph Scannell’s district. This could lead to one of the legislators losing their seat.

Currently part of 6th district, Malverne is represented by Republican Francis Becker but would be moved to the 7th Legislative District, where Republican Howard J. Kopel serves as legislator.

Republicans say they are abiding by the law by sending the new map to the Rules Committee on Monday at 1 p.m., to a public hearing next Monday, May 9 at 10 a.m. and to a final legislative vote on May 16.

-- Stephen Bronner

Thousands Run in Long Island Marathon

On May 1, over eight thousand residents took part in the 2011 Long Island Marathon, an annual event concluding at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow.

The male winner of the full marathon was Shawn McGrath, of Lynbrook, and the female winner was Jodie Schoppmann, of Levittown.

For the full story, check out Patch's video report.

Nassau Joins Safe-Swimming Initiative

Lifeguards and swimming instructors will be providing free classes at Saf-T-Swim Locations across Long Island today (May 7).

The safe-swimming initiative is being organized by the Long Island Drowning Prevention Task Force, which includes EMTs, health professionals, and as of Thursday, the American Red Cross in Nassau County.

"It only takes a few moments for a fun day at the beach or pool to turn tragic," said Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano. "I encourage everyone to consider these important measures to prevent drowning or other water-related injuries this summer.”

For a list of Saf-T-Swim locations participating, click here.