Commack vs Plainview?

[PizzaPedro]

I don't think you can go wrong with either Commack or Plainview. If the size of the Jewish population is important, Plainview is "more" Jewish but you wouldn't be an "outcast" in Commack by any means.

North Shore/South Shore is a matter of personal preference, but I can't see going to Merrick over either of these areas. I'm from the North Shore and totally biased, but IMO the South Shore is fading fast.

[AlexisT]

That's a huge exaggeration. The South Shore (aside from a few pockets) is not "fading fast" nor is it the new Queens.

[springcheer]

Originally Posted by Jennifer06

Wow, Sean, that was really kind of you! Thank you. Yes, we are looking for a place to raise our son Jewish, where it is typical to be Jewish and he won't be the only child in Hebrew school. Also, our son is Korean, so we'd been looking at areas where he'd ideally be exposed and know at least some Korean or other Asians.

I just looked quickly at MLS and see that Merrick is very affordable. I'll look more closely at the schools and such later when I have time, but yes we are open to any suggestions, and I so appreicate your remembering. We're feeling very nervous at the idea of selling our house for a loss and moving to an unknown place. That's why it's been taking us so long; we've just been driving around touring the Island, but feel clueless. (I even started to think of renting out our house while we rent elsewhere, to hold onto it.)

You do remember correctly, I am having a hard time with the anti-Semitism out east. I've heard really abrasive comments I don't even want to repeat, and not just from strangers.

Right now it's all about our son. As much as we love the open air, or a small town, we want the community and education for him. That's what led us to the areas I mentioned; it seemed to have those things...but, you are so right, at very high prices - especially compared to what we'd be selling our home for right now.

Again, thank you!

I'm not from the area, but my brother-in-law and sister-in-law live in Commack. Last year, they had to report a hate crime to the police. They woke up one morning and discovered anti-semitic remarks sprayed on their garage door with shaving cream. Just thought I'd fill you in... I was appalled.

[azzurrony]

Plainview,

I live in Plainview now and am about to move to GC. It's a great town...very safe, quiet, and not a bad commute to the city (door to door about an hour). The schools are excellent, and I would rank them slightly higher than Merrick or Commack.

That said, the town is quite Jewish. Being Catholic, I didn't ever feel like I fit in. For you, it would be perfect. Why? Well Plainview has a big Korean community that is growing all the time. You'll find tons of Koreans and Jews together so that is a nice mix for your boy. The Koreans tend to be quite isolated and keep to themselves, but you might be able to go to some of their events (most are centered around Christian church).

One thing to keep in mind about Plainview. The North part (above Old Country) is predominantly Jewish because they are near the Temples. The South part is mostly a mix of Italian, Irish, Korean, and Indian (a growing community as well).

[Grass4]

23 now, lived in Plainview for about 15 years. Your kid will have fun for now, but once he hits high school, all there is to do around here is drink and smoke weed. Plainview is boring as hell.

And someone mentioned an apartment complex on Central Park road. I'm almost positive that's an old folks home.