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Long Island’s Top Work Places 2020

To find out, Newsday had the consulting and research firm Energage anonymously poll more than 11,000 employees at 82 LI employers, on everything from pay and benefits to leadership and company alignment.

After analyzing all the results of the 82 companies that participated in the survey, Newsday and Energage have selected 66 as top Long Island workplaces and we are proud to spotlight the winners in each category, along with a look at what their employees had to say, islandwide trends and much more.

Large Employers
500+ Long Island workers

TOP LARGE EMPLOYER NEW YORK LIFE – LONG ISLAND

LARGE EMPLOYER RUNNER-UP BNB Bank

LARGE EMPLOYER 2ND RUNNER-UP PIPING ROCK HEALTH PRODUCTS

Employees at other Top Workplaces talk about their companies

Adults and Children with Learning & Developmental Disabilities, Inc. (human and social services) “I know my job affects the people that I support, and I feel really good after getting something accomplished.”

BNB Bank “Senior leadership is always available to me. If I need to talk to someone through a phone call or email, it is always taken. This is not usually the case at other banks.”

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (research) “I feel that I’m contributing in a very small way to the betterment of our world through the scientific research done at the lab.”

Family Service League Inc. (human and social services) “When you can help someone, who has lost a loved one to suicide, and then be supported by colleagues after the emotional intervention – even if it’s in the evening or on a weekend – you know you are part of a great team and you’re working in the right place.”

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (health care) “Knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s life during the tough time they are going through is so very rewarding to me. This job has made me decide to go back to school this fall and I am hoping to move in this company and become a nurse one day!”

New York Life – Long Island “I have real pride for the work I do helping clients with their finances and putting safety measures in place for the unexpected. My family and friends were underinsured before I started this career.”

Piping Rock Health Products, LLC (vitamins and nutritional supplements) “The production of vitamins is very interesting, and the company is growing a lot because it is making the best decisions.”

Stony Brook Southampton Hospital “I grew up in this town, so I know quite a few of the patients and enjoy caring for them. I feel like management really cares about all the employees and our safety.”

WellLife Network Inc. (social services and addiction recovery) “I am caring for children that need mental health support. This is very important to me as a social worker and is why I went into this profession.”

Zebra Technologies Corp. (barcode scanners, printers and mobile computers) “Open and transparent communications from upper management allow me to be proactive in planning my work and family life accordingly, especially during this pandemic.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquarters CityHQ stateLI LocationsLI Employees
1New York Life – Long Island1845Cooperative/MutualFinancial planningMelvilleNY5779
2BNB Bank1910PublicCommunity bankBridgehamptonNY34505
3Piping Rock Health Products, LLC2011PrivateManufacturingBohemiaNY8572
4Family Service League. Inc.1926PrivateHuman and social servicesHuntingtonNY25815
5Zebra Technologies Corp.1969PublicTechnologyLincolnshireIL1946
6Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory1890Non-profitResearchCold Spring HarborNY1943
7Stony Brook Southampton Hospital1909Non-profitHospitalsSouthamptonNY11,330
8New York Cancer & Blood Specialists1985PartnershipHealth carePort Jefferson StationNY15875
9WellLife Network Inc1980PrivateChildren, family, human servicesSmithtownNY12550
10Adults and Children with Learning & Developmental Disabilities, Inc.1957Non-profitHuman and social ServicesBethpageNY100938

Midsize Employers
150-499 Long Island workers

TOP MIDSIZE EMPLOYER HEALTH CARE PARTNERS, MSO

MIDSIZE EMPLOYER RUNNER-UP EXIT REALTY ACHIEVE

MIDSIZE EMPLOYER 2ND RUNNER-UP POWER HOME REMODELING

Employees at other Top Workplaces talk about their companies

Association for Mental Health and Wellness (human and social services) “My job enables me to provide necessary support to clients to enhance their motivation and confidence, and to educate them on how to find resources to help them succeed that they would otherwise not receive.”

CN Guidance & Counseling Services (human and social services) “We get to help those people in the community that need help, and we do it with a great team.”

Darby Dental Supply, LLC “I look around and see all the employees that have been here for 10, 20 and 30-plus years. I think that alone speaks volumes about how this is a very fair and rewarding company.”

EXIT Realty Achieve (real estate) “Helping a family make one of the most important decisions in their lives, being able to guide them correctly, and seeing how it makes them happy is amazing.”

Family & Children’s Association (social services) “We are a family who strives to be our very best for those who need us.”

Grassi Advisors & Accountants “I love my job because I get to utilize my accounting skills and work with professionals and clients that I can learn from.”

H2M Architects + Engineers “My ideas are respected, and I am given space to explore them further.”

HealthCare Partners, Management Service Organization “Our president, Dr. Robert LoNigro, hosts weekly webinars to let us know how the organization is doing. He encourages us to ask questions and provides honest answers to those questions.”

Kimco Realty Corp. (commercial real estate) “I love my job because of the good that I am able to do in getting tenants into a space which provides a livelihood for them.”

Marcum LLP (accounting) “Senior managers allow us to ask questions and don’t just expect us to do things a certain way because ‘that’s how it’s always been done.’ ”

Options for Community Living Inc. (housing and other services for vulnerable populations) “I feel like I’m making a difference in our clients’ lives and an impact on the surrounding community.”

Posillico (construction) “The coronavirus put a serious stress on all and senior managers tried to ensure all could work as safe as possible as we are deemed essential workers.”

Power Home Remodeling “My managers allow me to fail and get back up stronger. They have trust in me and I have trust in them. The work environment is never negative.”

Precipart (components manufacturing) “I love my job because I am able to produce quality parts which help the world.”

Spellman High Voltage Electronics Corp. (manufacturing) “I get to work with great people on interesting projects.”

SUNation Solar Systems (solar panel installation) “CEO Scott Maskin comes in singing most days. It’s a fun place to work and we do a lot of good for the local community by donating solar energy systems and rescuing dogs.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquarters CityHQ stateLI LocationsLI Employees
1HealthCare Partners, MSO1996PrivateHealth careGarden CityNY1240
2EXIT Realty Achieve2010PrivateReal estate agents/brokersSmithtownNY1173
3Power Home Remodeling1992PrivateHome remodelingChesterPA1217
4Posillico1946PrivateConstructionFarmingdaleNY1264
5Kimco Realty Corp.1958PublicCommercial real estate investment trustJerichoNY1226
6Association for Mental Health and Wellness1990Non-profitMental health and wellnessRonkonkomaNY8198
7Marcum LLP1951PartnershipAccounting and consulting advisorsNew YorkNY1187
8Spellman High Voltage Electronics Corp.1947PrivateManufacturingHauppaugeNY1315
9Grassi Advisors & Accountants1980PrivateAccountingJerichoNY2211
10SUNation Solar Systems2003PrivateRenewable energyRonkonkomaNY1174
11Family & Children’s Association1884Non-profitHuman servicesMineolaNY11218
12Darby Dental Supply, LLC1947PrivateDental supply sales and servicesJerichoNY1174
13H2M architects + engineers1933PrivateArchitectural and engineer design servicesMelvilleNY2348
14Options for Community Living, Inc.1982PrivateHuman servicesRonkonkomaNY3218
15CN Guidance & Counseling Services1972Non-profitMental healthHicksvilleNY3277
16Precipart1950PrivateEngineering and manufacturingFarmingdaleNY1285

Small Employers
50 – 149 Long Island workers

TOP SMALL EMPLOYER NATIONAL BUSINESS CAPITAL & SERVICES

SMALL EMPLOYER RUNNER-UP NETWORK SOLUTIONS AND TECHNOLOGY

SMALL EMPLOYER 2ND RUNNER-UP TOTAL TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Employees at other Top Workplaces talk about their companies

A+ Technology and Security Solutions Inc. (security systems) “We keep kids safe and help give a little comfort in a sometimes-uncomfortable world.”

Above All Store Fronts, Inc. (construction) “The company encourages new ideas and allows me to challenge myself in additional areas to do what I can to help my department grow and become more efficient.”

American Portfolios Financial Services Inc. (broker/dealer) “We are encouraged to do good things in our own town. It’s unlike any other company that I’ve been a part of.”

Appliance World (retailing) “Everyday, I feel proud to work here and be a part of something that is growing at a rapid pace. I’m believed in by my leaders and am well compensated.”

Aurora Contractors, Inc. (construction) “Employees are constantly looking for new exciting and active ways to come together and have fun, such as company picnics, badminton tournaments, rock climbing, bowling and game nights.”

Austin Williams (advertising) “There is occasionally some healthy critique of the work that I produce. Sometimes I’m asked, ‘Why not this way or why not that way?’ Usually I have an answer but sometimes I don’t. I find this healthy criticism extremely helpful because although I believe I’m very good at what I do. I’m far from perfect.”

BBS Architects, Landscape Architects & Engineers, P.C. “I love my job because I get to design spaces that support the education of our youth.”

Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a Mass Mutual Firm (insurance) “My job allows me to impact the lives of my clients in a very positive and meaningful way because I’m giving them lifelong financial advice.”

College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving “It feels good to help others during a stressful move and provide professionalism and promote positivity during the move.”

DUKAL Corp. (medical devices) “I have never been treated better by any employer and I’ve been in health care sales for nearly 25 years.”

Engel Burman (real estate development) “I love my job because I participate in building great things that help people, and I enjoy the process.”

Future Tech Enterprise (information technology) “At the beginning of the stay-at-home, CEO Bob Venero called me to see how I was doing. It meant the world to me that he took time out of his busy schedule to see how I was doing.”

Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. (engineering) “I love my job because I have the opportunity to work on amazing structures and follow my passions in bridge building.”

Janover LLC (accountants) “I am able to assist clients in making the right decisions for their businesses based on accurate financial information.”

KidsFirst Evaluation and Advocacy Center (special education) “Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined working with a company that allows me to work within and through some of my own limitations.”

Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles LLP (attorneys) “The firm allows me to practice law in a professional nonrestrictive environment.”

Long Island Select Healthcare, Inc. (medical clinics) “I get to help care for people who need help, those who live in the community that I live in. For this I am proud.”

Louis K McLean Associates Engineers & Surveyors, PC (civil engineering) “I love my job because I’m able to grow in knowledge of the things that I care about and gain experiences in many areas of engineering.”

McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, and Riordan, LLP (attorneys) “My job allows me to do a great public service helping injured workers.”

Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp. “I make people happy when I can help them obtain a home.”

Mercy Haven, Inc. (human and social services) “I love my job because I get to help people in need and give back to the community.”

National Business Capital & Services (small business lending) “I feel like I am at my second home with a family that all has a similar goal: to create a smooth and efficient business financing platform for business owners and partners to take advantage of.”

National Consumer Panel (researchers) “I work without feeling pressured and at the end of the day, I don’t worry about not wanting to go back to work the next day. I always look forward to it.”

Network Solutions & Technology (information technology) “I like solving problems and providing positive business outcomes. I need to listen to my clients’ obstacles and find some way to help them overcome their issues.”

New Vitality (vitamins and nutritional supplements) “There is a level of trust to make my own decisions, but managers are always available to help find the right route. We are helping people live better and stay healthy.”

NY State Solar (solar panel installation) “Work feels like a second family, especially after a company trip to Greece at the end of 2019. It was the best time of my life.”

Plesser’s Appliances (retailing) “I get along with all of my coworkers and work in one of the busiest appliance stores in the country.”

P.W. Grosser Consulting (engineering) “I am so proud to work for a company that works towards a greener, more sustainable future.”

Prepaid Ventures, Ltd. (financial technology) “I am trusted and valued for the work that I do, and they show their appreciation. Everyone works as a team, which helps us grow as a business.”

Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC “I love helping seniors make a better life for themselves. Reverse Mortgage Funding is a nice working environment with nice people, lots of laughs and some tears – just like a second family.”

SAIL, Inc. (human and social services) “We are helping individuals change the course of their lives in a positive way.”

Stasi Brothers Asphalt & Masonry “I am respected for my abilities and given the opportunity to change things that need to be improved. They treat us all like family and go above and beyond what most bosses would do.”

SupplyHouse.com (plumbing, heating and ventilation supplies) “It doesn’t feel like my company would ever step on us or try to take anything away from us just to make a profit, and I feel like every decision they make is good for our customers and for us.”

Total Technology Solutions (information technology) “As an IT company that operates 24/7 in the pandemic, it is imperative that we continue to support local governments as well as our other clients consisting of law firms, accounting firms and many more.”

Transervice Logistics Inc. (transportation) “My job is never dull. There is continued growth, trust and appreciation from management and the employees.”

Tweezerman International (personal care products) “I feel like I’m valued and my opinion matters.”

United Northern Mortgage Bankers Limited “I am encouraged to become better at my job. The company pays for my training and gives me the time off to take it.”

United States Luggage Company (wholesale distributor) “People are treated like human beings here and not like some replaceable automaton. Ideas are welcome and encouraged. Positive energy is something commonplace here.”

VHB Engineering, Surveying, Landscape Architecture and Geology, P.C. “I feel like I play a vital and appreciated role in significant projects, and I feel like I have the proper room and encouragement to continue growing my career.”

Yardi Systems, Inc. (real estate software) “The company encourages you to find your niche so if you are not feeling challenged in your current environment. Their approach is ‘where do you see yourself?’ and then they help you to achieve that goal.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquarters CityHQ stateLI LocationsLI Employees
1National Business Capital & Services2007PrivateBusiness financingBohemiaNY187
2Network Solutions and Technology (NST)2001PrivateInformation technologyEast NorthportNY154
3Total Technology Solutions1988PrivateInformation technology, cybersecurityMelvilleNY150
4Aurora Contractors, Inc.1983PrivateConstruction managementRonkonkomaNY153
5Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a Mass Mutual Firm1851Cooperative/MutualGeneral insuranceEast HillsNY1140
6SupplyHouse.com2004PrivateE-commerceMelvilleNY1135
7American Portfolios Financial Services Inc.2001PrivateBroker/dealerHolbrookNY1117
8McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, and Riordan, LLP1955PrivateWorkers’ compensationBay ShoreNY254
9United Northern Mortgage Bankers Limited1979PrivateMortgage lendingLevittownNY1108
10DUKAL Corp.1991PrivateMedical Devices & ProductsRonkonkomaNY165
11Yardi Systems, Inc.1984PrivateCustom Software Development & ConsultingSanta BarbaraCA1149
12P.W. Grosser Consulting1990PrivateEnvironmental engineeringBohemiaNY150
13Future Tech Enterprise1996PrivateInformation technologyHolbrookNY1110
14United States Luggage Company1911PrivateWholesale distributorHauppaugeNY165
15Janover LLC1938PrivateCertified public accountantsGarden CityNY199
16Stasi Brothers Asphalt & Masonry1962PrivateConstructionWestburyNY170
17Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP1993PrivateLawIslandiaNY1145
18NY State Solar2015PrivateSolarHicksvilleNY386
19Transervice Logistics Inc.1969PrivateTransportationLake SuccessNY161
20Louis K McLean Associates Engineers & Surveyors, PC1950PrivateCivil engineeringBrookhavenNY285
21A+ Technology and Security Solutions Inc.1989PrivateValue Added Reseller – Information TechnologyBay ShoreNY183
22Appliance World1992PrivateAppliancesHuntingtonNY262
23National Consumer Panel2010PrivateData analysis & researchSyossetNY175
24Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC2012PrivateReverse mortgagesBloomfieldNJ168
25College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving2011PrivateMoving and junk removalTampaFL199
26Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp.2010PrivateMortgage lendingWestburyNY2125
27New Vitality1998PublicMultivitamin supplementsEdgewoodNY159
28MSH Inc. dba Plesser’s Appliances1919PrivateElectronics & appliancesBabylonNY350
29SAIL, Inc.1982PrivateHuman and social servicesBaldwinNY7132
30KidsFirst Evaluation and Advocacy Center1997PrivateSpecial education support servicesDeer ParkNY290
31Austin Williams1982PrivateAdvertisingHauppaugeNY150
32Prepaid Ventures, Ltd.2007PrivateFinancial servicesNew Hyde ParkNY150
33BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, P.C.1985PrivateArchitecture & engineeringPatchogueNY163
34VHB Engineering, Surveying, Landscape Architecture and Geology, P.C.1979PrivateEngineering and designing servicesWatertownMA162
35Mercy Haven, Inc.1985Non-profitHuman and social servicesIslip TerraceNY577
36Above All Store Fronts, Inc.1993PrivateConstructionHauppaugeNY180
37Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.1966PrivateConstructionBabylonNY2130
38Engel Burman1997PrivateReal estate developmentGarden CityNY271
39Long Island Select Healthcare, Inc.2016PrivateHealth servicesCentral IslipNY6113
40Tweezerman International1980PrivateBeauty productsPort WashingtonNY1115

Special Awards
Companies that employees scored highest in each category

Leadership (large) Karen Boorshtein
Family Service League

Leadership (midsize) Dr. Robert LoNigro
HealthCare Partners, MSO

Leadership (small) Vincent Tedesco
Total Technology Solutions

Direction Piping Rock Health Products

Managers Power Home Remodeling

New ideas National Business Capital & Services

Doers College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving

Meaningfulness Aurora Contractors, Inc.

Values Network Solutions and Technology

Clued in senior management BNB Bank

Communication Zebra Technologies Corporation

Appreciation Posillico

Work/life flexibility McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, and Riordan, LLP

Training Association for Mental Health and Wellness

Benefits Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Find a top workplace
There’s a Top Workplace near you no matter where you are on LI

The Methodology

Facing adversity

Home office

Creative work-from-home setups during COVID

Working from home isn’t easy, but these Long Islanders are making it work.

Ruff day at the “home” office?

Never, Suzy Silverstein might say. Silverstein, a project manager at VHB Engineering, set up her workspace on her pool deck in the company of her favorite four-legged colleagues, Bubbles, a dachshund, and Blanket, a two-year-old Juliana mini pig, who also goes by Blanky, Blankarooni or Blankisaurus.

Suzy Silverstein, project manager at VHB Engineering, sits with her pets, Blanket, who was adopted from a farm in Tennessee, and Bubbles, a dachshund.

Those not fortunate enough to work poolside created variations of their “home office” space, some making do with makeshift desks and chairs, others claiming their “corner office” in quiet, kid-free, no-traffic zones in their den, kitchen, bedroom, basement, or other spaces.

Pattie Dougherty of Huntington Station, an employee of H2M Architects + Engineers, found a secluded and quiet workspace — in the back of her SUV.

A Huntington Station woman, Pattie Dougherty, of H2M Architects + Engineers, designed her own mobile space — in the back of her SUV.

Now, can you take breaks when working from home? One employee found a quick minute to stretch her legs, while others sought company with their kids, sometimes giving crying babies a lift.

Josef Kapsa’s commute was a breeze on “Bring Your Child to Work” day. Kapsa, of BBS, is seen with his children Joseph and Teresa, at home.

Working from the “home” office sure has its perks. You can go Friday casual or wear a tie. Suit yourself. And when you can finally take that much-delayed staycation to spend time with your two-legged companions (socially distanced, of course) you can even set your email to say: I will be out of the (home) office until next week.

Ruth Franklin, a supervisor in the assurance services department at Marcum LLP, has been working from her Massapequa home since COVID-19 began.

Oh, another perk of working from home: You don’t have to deal with those petty office pet peeves. (But if you’re seriously wondering whether Bubbles and Blanky get along, you may just have to get back to the office.)

— LEEMA THOMAS

Heroes

Long Islanders rise to the occasion during COVID

Some employees went the extra mile, according to the employers who nominated their staff as workplace heroes.

The state went on pause but the pandemic kept many employees on their toes, with some going the extra mile, according to the employers who nominated their staff as workplace heroes.

In her role as an office leader for the Emerging Professionals Group at VHB, Elyse Belarge led a Wellness Series for colleagues, her employer said. The series provided content for employees on topics including exercising, meditation, stretching, eating healthy, stress relief, local outdoor activities, and TED Talks related to mental health.

One employee initiated a wellness series for colleagues.

Marian Barr, senior specialist at New York Life Insurance Co. in Melville, not only continued to work in the office despite her compromised immune system as a cancer survivor, but also started a food drive, and then drove around distributing food and supplies to hospital workers and cancer patients.

Another not only continued to work in the office despite her compromised immune system as a cancer survivor but she also started a food drive, and then drove around distributing food and supplies to hospital workers and cancer patients, her employer said.

Suzanne Wenz, a senior program manager at Zebra Technologies Corp. in Holtsville, helped organize weekly volunteering efforts at the Island Harvest food bank over the past few months.

Across companies on Long Island, these workers rose to the occasion and were recognized for their passion and dedication, for their philanthropy and volunteerism, for helping their businesses survive and thrive.

Austin Williams’ creative director Bryan Hynes wears a company-branded gaiter face covering he helped design for employees to return to the office.

One even used his creative skills to help design a face covering for employees to return to the office.

— Leema Thomas

Determination

LIers show up to work, in PPE gear

Although COVID-19 put a brake on many business operations, a number of Long Islanders across various sectors, showed up to work — in their offices or in the field — in PPE gear.

Call it the pandemic couture.

Although COVID-19 put a brake on many business operations, a number of Long Islanders across various sectors, showed up to work — in their offices or in the field. While business was surely not as usual, these employees stepped up to the (fashion) plate, dressing for style, health and success.

Abu Jinnah, in PPE gear, works as a blending operator at Piping Rock Health Products’ Farmingdale facility.

Employees — from doctors, nurses, accountants, architects, engineers, mental health and social service workers, volunteers and even summer interns — kept the business engine running, suited up in various personal protective gear including facial coverings, masks, gloves, N95 respirators and other accessories, mindful of following health-mandated protocols.

Carlos Vargas, landscape architecture team leader at VHB Engineering, works in the field.

Some like Carlos Vargas, landscape architecture team leader at VHB Engineering, worked alone in the field.

From left, CN Guidance & Counseling employees Ayodeji Grace Oloke, Alexandria Attivissimo, Taylor Alicanti, Ama Serwah and Christina Metz.

Others like Ayodeji Grace Oloke, Alexandria Attivissimo, Taylor Alicanti, Ama Serwah and Christina Metz, all employees at CN Guidance & Counseling Services, worked in the office.

Alison Longstreet, left, and Greg Genovese, right, both employees at New York Life Insurance Company’s Jericho office, delivered dinner to the OR night crew at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip.

Yet others like Greg Genovese and Alison Longstreet, both employees at New York Life Insurance Co., outfitted in their PPE, delivered meals to the “overnight crew” at a hospital. We “decided we needed to do something to show our appreciation,” Longstreet said.

From H2M Architects + Engineers employees at a job site in protective helmets and masks to fashion forward real estate agent Rudy Rodriguez donning disposable boot covers and carrying hand sanitizers, businesses and employees put safety first.

Howie Richards, managing director at Spellman High Voltage, is suited up in his PPE gear.

So, yes, while the pandemic may have crimped many personal styles, Long Islanders looked haute, or cool, as they put their best face forward and performed their jobs.

— Leema Thomas

Camaraderie

What employees have missed most while working from home

From shared workspaces to chitchats, Long Island employees missed aspects of being in the office that ranged from the mundane to the esoteric.

Birthdays, baby showers, office parties.

A thriving workplace is also one that’s convivial.

Chit-chats around the office water-cooler or copy machine sharing morsels of gossip can help build camaraderie and foster career growth. But the pandemic put a kibosh on in-person, face-to-face office bashes and gatherings this year.

Those working remotely perhaps sorely missed their “work spouses” and suffered a bout of anxiety after their sudden separation from their work partners and shared workspaces during the lockdown, and what they missed most about the office ranged from the mundane to the esoteric.

— Leema Thomas

Pamela Moody, principal core manager at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, said she looks forward to getting research at CSHL back to full capacity, so that she can work with more scientists to share powerful technology that can be a tool for their research.

Jeffrey Friedman, chief executive at CN Guidance Counseling Services, says, “I miss seeing our staff and the people we serve at the office. The culture of our organization all centers around relationships. Seeing and talking with people virtual creates a void and a disconnect. There is nothing like interacting with someone face to face, in person. It makes us human. I miss that.”

Tony Sebastian, consulting supervisor at Grassi, said, “I miss the day-to-day atmosphere of the office. There is an unavoidable ebb and flow of the office that promotes a great working environment; the natural ‘work breaks’ of colleagues passing by and conversing to the sounds of rhythmic typing. That atmosphere is unmistakable and impossible to recreate when working outside of the office.”

Christiana Kastalek, environmental planner at VHB Engineering, said, “I miss the ability to have conversations with coworkers in person. Face-to-face conversations are so valuable not only in regard to socializing but for an emerging professional in the field, those conversations serve as a tool in learning and advancing my career.”

Connecting

Long Islanders work — and play — on Zoom

For countless remote workers, virtual video conferencing has become the primary link to staying in touch with colleagues and managers.

OK, Zoomers! (Now, that’s a compliment!)

For countless remote workers, virtual video conferencing has become the primary link to staying in touch with colleagues and managers.

Chances are if you are a non-millennial, you needed a lesson or two on how to get the lights, camera and audio going. Perhaps seeing a sea of faces on your desktop or laptop monitors made you jittery, and you made a mental note to comb your hair and put on a clean T-shirt the next time. Or, perhaps, you’ve committed a few Zoom faux pas (wait, was that your toddler who walked in front of the camera crying “mommy” as you were about to clinch that deal?) or someone Zoom-bombed your meeting.

Love it or hate it, you have come to live with it and get on with the business.

EXIT Achieve Realty’s team convenes on Zoom in late March.

Employees at Grassi Advisors & Accountants, EXIT Realty Achieve and Aurora Contractors were among businesses that connected with their staff via Zoom meetings.

Grassi employees from the Jericho, Ronkonkoma, White Plains, New York City and New Jersey offices heard from CEO and managing partner Louis C. Grassi in weekly Zoom meetings when employees worked remotely.

Grassi employees from the Jericho, Ronkonkoma, White Plains, New York City and New Jersey offices stayed connected through weekly Zoom check-ins. Even the company’s CEO and managing partner, Louis C. Grassi, checked in.

But all work and no play make Jack and Jill quite dull people.

CN Guidance & Counseling Service employees on Zoom, from left, Adriana Kijko, Linda Masotto, Catherine Clarke, Thomas Jablonski,  Victoria Elwell, Alysia Sobhraj, Martine Ritter and Ariel Coffman.

Employees of CN Guidance and Counseling Services gathered on Zoom for a game of scavenger hunt. And National Consumer Panel’s employee engagement committee held several virtual events, from virtual trivia to “Watercooler Chats” and bingo, to “boost morale and keep employees connected.”

Now, if you haven’t zoned out on Zoom sessions at least once, kudos. If you haven’t had your fill yet, “see” you later.

— Leema Thomas

A letter from
Newsday’s Publisher,
Debby Krenek

Debby Krenek, Newsday Publisher

Flexible. Dedicated. Resilient. Words we’ve heard a lot over the past few months as organizations describe the challenging times they’ve faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. And it’s not just their businesses they’re describing, it’s also their workforce.

Be it with kids in their arms or pets at their feet, at make-shift home offices or on-the-go in their mobile offices, despite the many hurdles they tackle each day, employees at the Top Long Island Workplaces are learning to adapt to these unprecedented times.

Top Long Island Workplaces honor organizations where employees feel engaged, appreciated and empowered. Nominated by their own employees, these places of work are leading the way for others in the business community. All of us at Newsday feel privileged to be able to recognize organizations right here on Long Island, who are truly doing it right.

History has taught us that during times where we are tested the most, it is also a time of great opportunity. And though the pandemic has impacted business in many ways, where we go from here has yet to be written. Top honors today can help shape Long Island’s next chapter.

Congratulations to all of the 2020 Top Workplaces.

Top Long Island Workplaces: 2020

Top Long Island Workplaces: 2020

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Long Island’s Top Work Places 2019

To find out, Newsday had the consulting and research firm Energage anonymously poll more than 16,000 employees at 117 LI employers, on everything from pay and benefits to leadership and company alignment.

After analyzing all the results of the 117 companies that participated in the survey, Newsday and Energage have selected 80 as top Long Island workplaces and we are proud to spotlight the winners in each category, along with a look at what their employees had to say, islandwide trends and much more.

Large Employers
500+ Long Island workers

TOP LARGE EMPLOYER SIGNATURE PREMIER PROPERTIES

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Tony Donnino

COMPANY: Signature Premier Properties

JOB: Licensed associate real estate broker

I worked for another real estate company for 20 years. The fact that real estate companies got corporate turned me off.

After Signature Premier Properties started to take over the market, it was time for me to leave my other company.

I like it because it’s not the corporate attitude. It’s still the mom-and-pop company, but it has grown into a giant on Long Island.

The owners probably know everyone’s name, every family member. They’re very involved in every aspect of the company, which they should be. I also like that the agents are very professional.

FUN FACT: I’m a sports guy. I still play softball at 62 years old. I play in a 40-and-over league in the Town of Huntington and I play pool in a league in Huntington. I like to travel. Saratoga Springs is my favorite place to visit because of the racetrack.

TOP LARGE EMPLOYER BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Kimberley Ruiz

COMPANY: Bethpage Federal Credit Union

JOB: Community development relationship manager

I’ve only been at Bethpage for two years, but everyone says it feels like I’ve been here much longer. It may be because of all the roles I get to play here.

One of my favorite responsibilities is teaching financial literacy classes at area schools and libraries. I’ve taught in front of kindergarten students and seniors, but it’s speaking to high school students that I love the most, because it’s at about that age that they’re becoming curious. High school students are starting to think about finances, and it’s amazing to see how engaged they are.

Bethpage is also very community oriented, and I’m involved in many of those meaningful events, including the turkey drive we put together each year with Island Harvest.

FUN FACT: I’m a certified scuba diver. I went on vacation in Thailand by myself, saw a sign, and said “Sure, why not!” I went through three 12-hour days of training in a pool and then the ocean, and saw a baby octopus and all sorts of other colorful fish. I recently also went to Croatia on vacation. Also took a trip to Peru. You have to understand, I take my vacations seriously.

TOP LARGE EMPLOYER PIPING ROCK HEALTH PRODUCTS

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Gaston Mathias

COMPANY: Piping Rock Health Products

JOB: Material handler

I joined Piping Rock about nine months ago, and I’ve received other job offers since then. I’m real clear about this: I tell them no way, I love it here. If people saw how we are treated, and how my plant manager treats people in general, they’d understand that there is no reason to offer me another job.

I’m very fortunate, because when I first came here, it was on a temporary basis. But I did well, and they converted the job to a full-time position.

My main responsibility here is to retrieve materials, and set up machines before line operators start. Also, if they’re running low on a material, like bottles, for example, I retrieve the goods so that we don’t stop with production. I’m a runner, so to speak.

FUN FACT: I’m a furniture maker. My brother taught me how to make and fix furniture in Haiti before I came to the United States in 1981. I can fix anything! Bedroom furniture, dining room furniture, you name it. I used to do this for a living, and I still do this on the side. Also, I can cook. I make great salmon dishes. When I go to a restaurant and order salmon, it never satisfies me.

Employees at other top workplaces talk about their companies

Catholic Health Services of Long Island “This is a faith-based organization and I have the opportunity to work with leaders that care about the staff in many ways that you do not find in other employer environments.”

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (research) “As a researcher you observe biological connections nobody has seen before.”

Family Service League (human and social services) “Social work is not a job, it is a passion. I love helping people put together the pieces of the puzzle of their lives, so they can live a happier, healthier life.”

Lessing’s Hospitality Group (restaurants and catering) “I love my job because it allows me to be creative with my passion for food.”

Life’s WORC (residential and day-services support) “Every day offers new opportunities to make life better for the people we support.”

Marchon Eyewear (fashion brands) “Even though I have been here for so long, I have learned so much more within the last 10 years.”

Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation “We strive to make a positive difference in the lives of the residents/patients. Just yesterday, during rounds, one of the residents (after I checked in on her) grabbed my hand and said, ‘Please come around some more.’ That made my heart melt!”

Spectrum Vision Partners (eye care) “There is immense gratification when you have a patient thank you for your help or state how much they enjoy coming into the office due to the care they receive from the entire staff.”

Stony Brook Southampton Hospital “To be able to assist a woman to give birth to her first baby, to teach a woman how to care for her baby, to be a support system for a family — all of these things make me feel truly fulfilled in my position as an RN.”

Zebra Technologies Corp. (bar code scanners, printers and mobile computers) “We are driving innovation into every product that we develop and leading the market in mobile computers. We’re focused on our customers. It’s incredibly fulfilling!”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquartersCityHQ StateLI LocationsLI Employees
1Signature Premier Properties2007PrivateAgents / BrokersEast NorthportNY211,050
2Bethpage Federal Credit Union1941Cooperative/MutualNot for profit, Federal Credit UnionBethpageNY37725
3Piping Rock Health Products, LLC2011PrivateManufacturingBohemiaNY9508
4Family Service League1926Non-profitHuman and social servicesHuntingtonNY19794
5Lessing’s Hospitality Group1890PrivateRestaurants/cateringGreat RiverNY45700
6Zebra Technologies Corp.1969PublicTechnologyLincolnshireIL2859
7Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory1890Non-profitResearchCold Spring HarborNY3850
8Stony Brook Southampton Hospital1909Non-profitHospitalsSouthamptonNY11,176
9Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation1972Non-profitSkilled Nursing CentersNew Hyde ParkNY1678
10Marchon Eyewear 1983Non-profitFashion Brand MelvilleNY4520
11Catholic Health Services of Long Island1997Non-profitHealth CenterRockville CentreNY1515,227
12Life’s WORC1971Non-profitServices for people with disabilitiesGarden CityNY28515
13Spectrum Vision Partners1997PrivateHealthcare ManagementGarden CityNY18589

Midsize Employers
150-499 Long Island workers

TOP MIDSIZE EMPLOYER POWER HOME REMODELING GROUP

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Kelvin Ojo Nosagie

COMPANY: Power Home Remodeling Group

JOB: Remodeling consultant and team leader

I’ve been with Power for eight years. I went to St. John’s University and studied business administration and communications. I interned for CNN and worked at NY1 News. I was planning on going to law school, and I had actually gotten accepted to a school in Virginia. But I was kind of doing it for the money, it wasn’t for the right reasons.

As I was driving back from visiting the law school I got a call from a Power manager. When I came to Power, it was kind of like finding a home. It wasn’t something that I planned, I just felt that it was a great opportunity that I kind of walked into.

There’s always mobility, you’re always able to grow.

What has really surprised me the most is seeing the leaders of the business having a genuine interest in the lives of the people. You don’t see that at every company. You’re working with friends.

FUN FACT: I’m an associate pastor at my church, World Restoration Center in Westbury, where I mentor youths, help out at a food pantry, visit people who are ill and sometimes preach on Sundays.

TOP MIDSIZE EMPLOYER POSILLICO INC.

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Danielle Mendoza

COMPANY: Posillico Inc.

JOB: Project Manager

My favorite thing about my work is the interaction with so many different people — the labor force, owners, subcontractors, vendors and peers — and the mix of working on site and in the field office.

The construction industry is tough within itself no matter who you are. Every couple of months to every couple of years, you are moved to and learning a new project, with new people, all while having to get the ball rolling, typically, in only a couple of weeks.

Being a woman adds even more challenges because it is not as common in this industry. Trying to juggle learning the industry, a new project and a new role on top of working with a 100 percent male labor force, at least on my most recent project, can be intimidating and not everyone is welcoming to the idea of a woman on the worksite.

However, I’ve been very lucky at Posillico that this isn’t my ‘norm’. The company doesn’t see age or gender when assigning you to a role that they think you best fit, and I am grateful they provide the support needed to best succeed in that position.

FUN FACT: I am an avid reader, currently reading Brenée Brown’s “Daring Greatly” but vary between business and psychology genres with some fiction mixed in. My husband and I have two dogs and spend a lot of our free time outdoors with them, hiking in the cooler months and spending time at the beach in the summer.

TOP MIDSIZE EMPLOYER DOMINICAN VILLAGE

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Sherri Beverly

COMPANY: Dominican Village

JOB: Dining room manager

I’ve been here since it opened. I had been studying to be an electronic technician. I came here just to make extra money to pay for that course, and once I came here, I ended up staying here. It’s just like family, it’s very rewarding.

The residents, their warm personalities, their wisdom, their knowledge. They like to share their stories — they bring pictures into the dining room sometimes.

I grew up in Amityville. My mother, we prayed together, we stayed together. It was structure, it was chores, it was having respect for your elders, you speak when you’re spoken to. When I hire staff, I look for that home training. They already have a little experience and patience, and they know that the residents are declining, their hearing and their eyesight and their taste buds. We still can make them smile. We try to make it so they look forward to coming back to the dining room tomorrow.

FUN FACT: Last year I won the New York State Health Facilities Association’s Noble Caregiver Award, which honors front-line workers who help improve residents’ lives and create a better work environment. I also mentor young women through my church. Anywhere I can help, I’m there.

Employees at other top workplaces talk about their companies

Arbor Realty Trust Inc. (commercial real estate) “I am able to be part of something bigger than myself. Long after I am gone, the procedures and staff that I helped to build up will still be here.”

Association for Mental Health and Wellness “I enjoy helping people and assisting others with reaching their goals. I especially like encouraging others who feel like there is no hope.”

BNB Bank “As a community banker, I have the opportunity to provide my clients with the personalized attention that a large banking atmosphere often lacks, and it makes me feel as if I am supporting the growth and efficiency of my clients.”

CN Guidance & Counseling Services (social services) “I get to support people who live with mental health and/or addiction issues so that they are not alone in their struggle.”

Cook Maran & Associates (insurance) “I love my job because there’s a lot of thinking.”

Cox & Company (manufacturing) “I love my job because I learn more about what goes into producing a product.”

DaVita (healthcare) “We are a village first and a company second. We treat each other with the same intensity as we treat our patients.”

Dental365 (dental care) “I feel we are able to work with patients, finding a solution that gives them the best dental treatment while understanding their budget and [insurance] allowances.”

Designatronics Inc. (components manufacturing) “I came from a competitor where I worked for many years before they moved out of state. I feel right at home here.”

Family & Children’s Association (social services) “It is great to know I am helping families through difficult times, but even greater to see when they take things that they have learned by being in our program and apply them.”

Farrell Fritz, P.C. (attorneys) “Attorneys have opportunities to handle challenging cases and develop professionally.”

H2M Architects + Engineers (design) “I have the freedom to create projects and develop new clients.”

HealthCare Partners, Management Service Organization “My job allows me to use my knowledge, talents and abilities to help improve patient care. I get to learn and grow as a health care professional.”

Heatherwood Luxury Rentals (apartments) “Top management has grown with the company and knows all aspects of the job. It’s not just another suit in the chair looking at the numbers and telling you what should be done. They have done it themselves for years.”

Leviton Manufacturing Co. Inc. (electrical products) “We get to develop and produce real products that we see for sale and are used by our friends and family.”

MagnaCare Administrative Services (medical insurance) “I am able to help our clients lower their health care costs.”

Marcum LLP (accounting) “I have a lot of flexibility in what I do and when I can get it done. I am not micromanaged and am trusted as a professional.”

MSC Industrial Supply Co. (tools distributor) “I like to take on projects that are outside of my day-to-day role, which allows me to learn more about the business and make a positive contribution to the bottom line.”

NFP Property and Casualty Services Inc. (insurance) “The company believes in diversity and inclusion, and that many different types of people can offer ideas that may work well for our clients.”

North Atlantic Industries Inc. (electronics manufacturing) “I learn something new every day, whether it is learning how to do more things with the systems/programs that we use or speaking with the engineers about how parts come together and the language they use to identify the different modules.”

Options for Community Living Inc. (housing and other services for vulnerable populations) “Everyone works together to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.”

Precipart (components manufacturing) “My ideas can be brought into reality.”

Spellman High Voltage Electronics Corp. (manufacturing) “I enjoy mechanical design and I have been provided with all the support anyone could ask for. I spend much of my time doing creative design and do not feel over-pressured by deadlines.”

YAI, formerly Young Adult Institute (education and social services for the developmentally disabled) “We are doing important work — caring for those with disabilities.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquartersCityHQ StateLI Locations
1Power Home Remodeling Group1992PrivateResidential remodeling ChesterPA1
2Posillico1946PrivateConstructionFarmingdaleNY1
3Dominican Village1992Non-profitSenior living communityAmityvilleNY1
4Dental3652014PrivateDental/health careNew Hyde ParkNY15
5Spellman High Voltage Electronics Corp.1947PrivateManufacturingHauppaugeNY1
6North Atlantic Industries1955PrivateManufacturingBohemiaNY2
7Association for Mental Health and Wellness1990Non-profitMental health servicesRonkonkomaNY4
8BNB Bank1910PublicCommunity bankHauppaugeNY40
9NFP Property and Casualty Services, Inc.1998PrivateGeneral insuranceNew YorkNY1
10Heatherwood Luxury Rentals1965PrivateProperty managementCommackNY18
11Designatronics Inc.1950PrivateManufacturingHicksvilleNY1
12Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.1992PublicReal estate investment trustUniondaleNY1
13H2M architects + engineers1933PrivateArchitectural and engineering servicesMelvilleNY2
14HealthCare Partners, MSO1996PrivateHealth careGarden CityNY1
15MSC Indsutrial Supply Co.1941PublicEngineering/ManufacturingMelvilleNY1
16Cook Maran & Associates1950PrivateInsurance consultants & brokersMelvilleNY4
17Farrell Fritz, P.C. 1976PartnershipLawUniondaleNY3
18Family & Children’s Association1884Non-profitHuman servicesMineolaNY10
19Marcum LLP1951PartnershipAccounting and consultingNew YorkNY1
20Cox & Company1944PrivateDe-icing systems for aircraftPlainviewNY1
21Precipart1950PrivateManufacturingFarmingdaleNY1
22Options for Community Living, Inc.1982Non-profitHuman serviceRonkonkomaNY3
23YAI1957Non-profitServices for people with disabilitiesNew YorkNY30
24DaVita1992PublicHealth careDenverCO10
25MagnaCare1990PrivateMedical insurance, medical managementWestburyNY1
26Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. 1906PrivateManufacturingMelvilleNY1
27CN Guidance & Counseling Services1972Non-profitMental healthHicksvilleNY3

Small Employers
50 – 149 Long Island workers

TOP SMALL EMPLOYER NATIONAL BUSINESS CAPITAL & SERVICES

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Shannon Treadwell

COMPANY: National Business Capital & Services

JOB: Vice president of production

Before I started here in 2013 I was working in a dry cleaners. I was 22 years old, and I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I started as a receptionist. I did that for a little while, and then from there I moved up to the processing department … I kept moving around and learning all aspects of the business, and now I am running the production department. This place believes in its employees more than any other place that I know. The culture is amazing. Really there is no limit as to where I want to go.

I can’t see myself being anywhere else. If you had asked me when I was young if I would be here, I don’t know if I would have said yes. But I am so happy to be here.

FUN FACT: If I am not here, you can find me at the beach. I’ll be in the ocean until mid-October, anywhere on Fire Island. I have a son, he’s 20 months old. He loves the ocean just as much as I do. We wake up; we go to the beach. He’s in the water, I am in the water. We are basically fish.

TOP SMALL EMPLOYER LONG ISLAND POWER SOLUTIONS

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Henry LaRosa

COMPANY: Long Island Power Solutions

JOB: Sales representative

I started at Long Island Power Solutions as a fresh-out-of-college intern almost nine years ago. I worked as an installer for about four years and then traded the roofs for the phones.

I love knowing I’m part of a solid team, a positive group of people who truly believe in me.

They’ve never put me in a box and have given me free rein to learn at my own pace.

Without a doubt, we all work hard, but it’s a fun, laid-back atmosphere. No one is dreading coming in when their alarm goes off in the morning. I can tell you for sure, I don’t. Plus, I don’t have to wear a suit and tie to work. What’s better than that?

FUN FACT: I’ve participated in several hiking trips in Colorado as part of The Ability Experience, a nonprofit founded by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, which I’m a part of. Through the organization, I was able to lead a group of visually impaired people as they trekked through beautiful creeks and mountain trails. Witnessing the sheer joy and excitement exploring Mother Nature brought to their faces has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

TOP SMALL EMPLOYER TLC FAMILY OF CAMPS & INNS

Employee Spotlight

NAME: Basimah Thompson, aka “Coach B”

COMPANY: TLC Family of Camps & Inns

JOB: Athletic director for campers ages 2-1/2 to 5 at North Shore Day Camp

I’ve been working at North Shore for the last five years. Every year, in the months leading up to summer, I tell myself I’m just gonna take the summer off, but when summer rolls around, I never do.

The truth is, I can’t stay away because I love it. Plus, I would hate to leave the kids hanging. They always look so excited to see me.

There are about 400 children in my program and, boy, do we have fun! We play all types of games, water games, catch-your-flag games, relay races and all types of sports, too. Tennis, softball, soccer, basketball, you name it.

For me, it’s a special time of year because I get to relive my childhood again. I get to be a big kid. I’m right there with them. I jump in the game. Most of the time it doesn’t even feel like work.

FUN FACT: I like to sleep with a teddy bear. I have a small collection of them. My husband gave me the first one for Valentine’s Day when we were dating, and now he knows to always get me one on special occasions. No one really knows this about me, but oh well, I guess the teddy bear’s out of the bag now.

Employees at other top workplaces talk about their companies

Above All Store Fronts Inc. (construction) “I love my job because our boss is on the same level as us and not feeling like you are beneath him in any way.”

Acutis Diagnostics Inc. (medical tests) “The results that we give to our clients and patients sometimes can be life-changing. I love the fact that I feel as if I’m helping make a difference in the world.”

Allegiant Health (drugmaker) “My boss is my mentor and has helped me grow beyond my expectations.”

Allure Home Improvements “I get to create people’s visions right in front of them in their own homes.”

American Advisors Group (reverse mortgages) “I am able to assist seniors living a better life during retirement.”

American Portfolios Financial Services Inc. (broker/dealer) “I have the freedom to make decisions without someone standing over me. The company puts employees first and I’m not just a Social Security number.”

Appliance World (retailing) “I enjoy the camaraderie and getting to help people pick the product that meets their individual needs.”

AUSCO Inc. (components manufacturing) “My work is important to the aerospace industry and therefore to everyone who flies.”

Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions (insurance) “I love my job because it allows me to work in a spacious, beautiful office with a diversity of people from so many different areas of the world.”

Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP (attorneys) “My manager encourages my ideas and listens to me when I disagree or have another opinion. In past jobs, I felt like my opinion didn’t make a difference.”

ClearVision Optical (eye care) “I am given the opportunity to speak my mind and I feel comfortable saying when I disagree with someone or something. It lends itself to better discussions where everyone can take something out of it.”

Constellation Home Care “I feel that I help the people in the community establish the proper support necessary when transitioning back to the community from rehab or the hospital during recovery.”

Contemporary Computer Services Inc. (IT solutions) “I feel I am working with professionals that I can learn from. They will push me to take on new and challenging opportunities.”

DUKAL Corp. (medical devices) “I am given the ability to effect change and promote the healthy lives of patients through the products that we manufacture.”

Frankel Loughran Starr & Vallone, LLP (tax consultants) “I’m able to learn more and more about the accounting field each day.”

Janover LLC (accountants) “There were many significant health issues for employees or their loved ones during the most stressful time of our year, but we didn’t miss a beat as everyone stepped up to share the load!”

Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles LLP (attorneys) “My manager does a fantastic job of reassuring everyone that they are doing a great job. I have seen a significant drop in stress and anxiety since working here.”

L.K. McLean Associates Engineers & Surveyors, P.C. (civil engineering) “I love my job because I get involved with interesting local construction projects.”

Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp. “I love my job because it is a fast-paced environment where all components of the company work together towards a common goal: closing loans.”

Mercy Haven Inc. (human and social services) “I get to help people get a place to live that they can call their own. It’s not abstract. It’s real people who now have a home because we made it happen for them.”

Nassau Financial Federal Credit Union “My branch manager and assistant branch manager are invested in helping me to grow.”

National Consumer Panel (researchers) “I like being busy and each day is a little different than the day before.”

New Vitality (vitamins and nutritional supplements) “We have lots of food, special events and fun things that we do to get us all together and learn about each other.”

Nixon Peabody LLC (attorneys) “Working in a law firm can be stressful at times but at Nixon the environment is great. Everyone walks around with a smile.”

Picciano & Scahill, P.C. (attorneys) “In the almost 16 years that I have been here, I have garnered respect and admiration from my fellow workers and attorneys. I have never worked any other place that makes me feel so necessary.”

Prepaid Ventures Ltd. (financial technology) “I get to come to a place where people actually respect my opinion and thoughts as a woman.”

P.W. Grosser Consulting (environmental engineering) “I have the opportunity to put my best skills to the test to help the environment and create a more sustainable future.”

RES Company Inc. (long-term care and mental health services) “I love the clients that we work with and helping them regain their independence in the community.”

Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC “The company truly cares about helping seniors to live comfortably and stay in their own homes.”

SUNation Solar Systems (energy) “We are cultivating change and doing what is best for the environment.”

SupplyHouse.com (retailer of hardware and building materials) “I have been given every opportunity to better myself within the company and they’ve supported me through many life decisions during my time here.”

The Engel Berman Group (commercial real estate developer) “I love my job because it allows me to grow to the next level of construction and change the landscape of the area that I am working on.”

The Patchogue-Medford Library “I am part of an organization that is committed to helping people become more empowered and educated.”

truMedic (medical devices) “I love my job because I’ve been promoted twice in the two years that I’ve been here.”

United Northern Mortgage Bankers Ltd. “I love my job because I help others to achieve the dream of homeownership.”

United States Luggage Company LLC (wholesale distributor) “The owner is very approachable and shows sincere concern for the staff and sharing information and sharing the success we have. He even cooks for us at the company BBQ every summer.”

Youth Enrichment Services (education and social services) “I get to work with students after school with projects and ideas that they want.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquartersCityHQ StateLI LocationsLI Employees
1National Business Capital & Services2007PrivateBusiness financing servicesBohemiaNY8285
2LI Power Solutions2009PrivateAlternative/renewable energyRonkonkomaNY158
3TLC Family of Camps & Inns1992Parent companySummer campsGlen CoveNY352
4Appliance World1992PrivateAppliance retailerHuntingtonNY259
5Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a MassMutual Firm1851Cooperative/MutualGeneral insuranceEast Hills NY1130
6SupplyHouse.com2004PrivateE-commerceMelvilleNY1133
7Allegiant Health1995PrivatePharmaceuticalsDeer ParkNY2135
8Louis K McLean Associates Engineers & Surveyors, PC1950PrivateCivil engineeringBrookhavenNY287
9P.W. Grosser Consulting1990PrivateEnvironmental engineeringBohemiaNY152
10United Northern Mortgage Bankers Limited1979PrivateMortgage lendingLevittownNY1114
11truMedic2013PrivateWholesale/retailKings ParkNY159
12Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC2012PrivateReverse mortgage servicesBloomfieldNJ165
13Constellation Home Care2014PrivateHealth careSyossetNY1144
14Nixon Peabody LLP1875PartnershipLawBostonMA164
15Mercy Haven, Inc.1985Non-profitHuman and social servicesIslip TerraceNY577
16American Portfolios Financial Services Inc. 2001PrivateBroker/dealerHolbrook NY1104
17DUKAL Corp.1991PrivateMedical devices & productsRonkonkomaNY154
18United States Luggage Co.1940PrivateWholesale distributorHauppaugeNY166
19Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP1993PrivateLawIslandiaNY1121
20New Vitality1993PublicVitamin & supplementsEdgewoodNY168
21SUNation Solar Systems2003PrivateSolar/renewable energyRonkonkomaNY1146
22Picciano & Scahill, P.C.1992PrivateLawBethpageNY1125
23Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp.2010PrivateMortgage lendingWestburyNY2146
24RES Co.2000PrivateServes survivors of traumatic brain injuryBohemiaNY153
25Alure Home Improvements1946PrivateConstruction/remodelingCommackNY283
26Prepaid Ventures, Ltd.2007PrivateFinancial technologyNew Hyde ParkNY152
27Engel Burman1997PrivateDevelopmentGarden CityNY3100
28AUSCO Inc.1957PrivateAerospace/defenseFarmingdaleNY197
29Patchogue Medford Library1975GovernmentLibraryPatchogueNY1113
30American Advisors Group2004PrivateMortgage Orange CA191
31ClearVision Optical1949PrivateOptical wholesaleHauppaugeNY1139
32Campolo, Middleton, & McCormick LLP2008PartnershipLawRonkonkomaNY350
33Youth Enrichment Services1987Non-profitHuman and social servicesWest Islip NY195
34Acutis Diagnostics2016PrivateDiagnostics, imaging & laboratoriesEast NorthportNY186
35Contemporary Computer Services Inc1974PrivateInformation technologyBohemiaNY174
36National Consumer Panel2010PartnershipData analysis & researchSyossetNY161
37Above All Store Fronts, Inc. 1993PrivateConstructionHauppaugeNY1135
38Nassau Financial Federal Credit Union1936Non-profitCredit unionWestburyNY664
39Janover LLC1938PartnershipCertified public accountantsGarden CityNY183
40Frankel Loughran Starr & Vallone LLP1995PartnershipTax consultingGarden CityNY183

Special Awards
Companies that employees scored highest in each category

Leadership (large) Wayne Grossé
Bethpage Federal Credit Union

Leadership (midsize) Joseph Posillico
Posillico

Leadership (small) Joseph Milillo
LI Power Solutions

Direction Power Home Remodeling Group

Managers Family Service League

New ideas TLC Family of Camps & Inns

Doers National Business Capital & Services

Meaningfulness Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a MassMutual Firm

Values SupplyHouse.com

Clued in senior management Dental365

Communication Signature Premier Properties

Appreciation Dominican Village

Work/life flexibility North Atlantic Industries

Training Piping Rock Health Products

Benefits P.W. Grosser Consulting

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The Methodology

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Experts

Leadership

LI’s top executives share their leadership tips

“Have trust in your staff and be someone who staff members can trust,” says Joseph Milillo, chief executive of Ronkonkoma-based Long Island Power Solutions.

The skills and communication styles of top decision-makers can make the difference between a workplace that keeps employees engaged and one that fails to attract and keep talented workers.

Vision, trust and the ability to absorb feedback and implement employee ideas are all qualities that employees at some of Long Island’s Top Workplaces said their leaders exhibited. It’s those qualities that workers said give them confidence in their company’s leadership.

Based on Energage’s 2019 Top Workplaces survey for Newsday, the three Long Island leaders who inspired the most confidence in their employees were:

Wayne Grossé, president and chief executive of Bethpage Federal Credit Union, in the large-company category

Joseph K. Posillico, president and chief executive of Farmingdale-based Posillico Inc., in the mid-sized company category

Joseph Milillo, chief executive of Ronkonkoma-based Long Island Power Solutions, in the small company category.

What qualities do you think are vital for a successful business leader?

Wayne Grosse Grossé:

Empathy and good communications skills. You need to be approachable and get information from all levels. A lot of places, when they’re looking for solutions, they just listen to the executive team. We don’t do that. We do a lot of focus groups internally, and most of the input we get makes a difference.

Joeseph Posillico Posillico:

You have to have a clear vision of where you want to bring your organization and you have to be able to communicate that and get people to buy into that. The other aspect is to be opened-minded, listen to people and don’t just do things because it’s “my idea.” No one wants to do something because they’re told to do something they want to do something because they think it’s the right thing to do.

joseph-milillo Milillo:

Have trust in your staff and be someone who staff members can trust. Have self-confidence and inspire it in others. Be knowledgeable. If your business revolves around sales, you need to know your product front and back. And lastly, the ability to recognize and foster talent is key. It’s the best way to create a pleasant and efficient work environment where people feel empowered and motivated.

Has your approach to leadership changed over the years?

Wayne Grosse Grossé:

It hasn’t changed much. I’ve been in management since I was 23, and I got it early on, and understood how to deal with people. I got lucky. It’s a very simple approach: Focus on people. I’m approachable, I do a lot of reaching out, walking around and talking to people.

Joeseph Posillico Posillico:

The biggest thing I had to learn to do was to delegate more. I was the type of guy that felt like I had to do everything myself. Sometimes I wouldn’t have as much trust in some of the people underneath me to do what I needed done. That just took time to bring the right people in that I had the confidence in.

joseph-milillo Milillo:

In the early stages of the business, my management style was a lot more hands-on. I was doing more of what I call “managing of the jobs.” I was doing most of the work myself. Now, I’m at a place where I’ve moved from managing the jobs and having to do every step myself to overseeing the processes and managing the people doing them — my team.

What are the most challenging aspects of leading a business?

Wayne Grosse Grossé:

It’s the messaging, to ensure that everyone understands the purpose, and ours is enriching lives. It’s not just about product orientation, rates and service. A teller can help cheer someone up when they’re having a bad day. We experiment, we do a lot of surveys and we make sure people are getting the right message.

Joeseph Posillico Posillico:

Being able to continue to be successful in an extremely competitive business. You’ve got to have a lot of self-discipline to not chase jobs because you need the work. On the other hand, you’ve got to make sure that you’re getting the right type of work and keep getting work to keep your people employed.

joseph-milillo Milillo:

Making sure every part of it runs smoothly. If one part of the chain or one part of the process is off, it can delay our entire schedule as a company and set back our timetables as to when jobs are supposed to be completed. This is most challenging during times of growth.

-Victor Ocasio

Employees

A letter from
Newsday’s Publisher,
Debby Krenek

Debby Krenek, Newsday Publisher

Long Islanders are passionate about the place they call home, the place they have chosen to live and build a family — and they are passionate about the place they have chosen to work.

For the second year in a row, Newsday has partnered with Energage, an employee research and culture technology firm, to determine Long Island’s 2019 Top Workplaces. This recognition, open to all employers on Long Island (public, private, nonprofit or governmental) with at least 50 employees, is solely based on anonymous employee survey feedback. The survey takes a deep dive into employee engagement, measuring whether employees feel aligned with their company’s mission and leadership.

Some of the companies are well known, many are not. You’ll hear words like appreciated, empowered and valued. You’ll get a better understanding of how employees relate to their work and how management motivates them to work toward their highest potential.

As we prepared to move into our new workplace, we thought a lot about the things we heard in last year’s section; words like values, culture and direction – and we’ve been inspired. At Newsday we remain fully committed to telling the story of Long Island. Our own new workplace is an investment into our future and allows us to fully focus on serving Long Islanders. All these workplaces are a very big part of that future as well. They’ve built impressive, award-winning organizations and are leading the way for the entire business community.

So, from all of us at Newsday, congratulations to Long Island’s 2019 Top Workplaces winners; and come spring, we look forward to welcoming you to our new place for a visit!

How is your workplace
culture
being influenced by technology?

See photos of the 2019 Top Workplaces Event See winners from the 2018 Top Workplaces

An email that cost her everything

An email that cost her everything

What if you were buying a house and received an email you thought was from your lawyer…

Lynn phone conversation

But it was a scam.

That’s what happened to Lynn Wiedmer of Glen Head. The next day,
her bank account was drained of

$0

Wiedmer’s experience is more common
than you might think. Here’s what you need to know.

All it took for Lynn Wiedmer to lose her life savings and the home she dreamed of buying was a single extra letter in an email she thought came from her attorney.

Wiedmer, a 58-year-old former vice president at a bank in Queens, said she had found the perfect home to purchase, a slate-blue Colonial in Glen Cove with three bedrooms, an oak tree in front and a spacious backyard. She and the sellers signed the $560,000 purchase contract in mid-December, and she made a 10% down payment, she said.

She said nothing seemed amiss when she received an email on Dec. 30 that looked like it was from her attorney, with the address of the home in the subject line.

In interviews, Wiedmer described the exchange of nearly two dozen emails that followed, and she showed the emails to Newsday:

“Good morning Lynn,” the first email began. It went on to describe a “chat” with the sellers’ attorney. The sender asked Wiedmer if she could transfer the remaining funds due into an escrow account that day. “I’m in jury duty most of today, but I do have access to my email,” the sender wrote.

Wiedmer soon received another email, apparently from her real estate agent, asking her to confirm she had received the attorney’s email. Wiedmer asked the purported attorney for wiring instructions. The sender gave the instructions. The next morning, she said, she wired the funds: $504,350.89, representing the majority of her savings, including an inheritance.

She said she discovered later that the emails were from a scammer who had learned the details of her home purchase, created an email account that looked like her attorney’s address – using the domain name @opptonline.net, with an extra ‘p’ added to optonline – and deceived her into sending the money to a bank account controlled by the scammer. The scammer also faked her agent’s email address by deleting a period, she said.

When she discovered the fraud, “the bottom of my life fell out,” Wiedmer said.

She said she is tormented by thoughts of what she could have done differently to protect herself, and how her money is being used.

“I’ve now had to go to therapy because I’ve been a victim of a crime,” she said. “I could have funded a terrorist group…. I have no idea who did this to me. They’re faceless. It’s not like I can look at them and say, ‘You did this to me.'”

“And that scares me even more,” she said. “Who knew enough about me and my situation to do this?”

The devastating financial loss Wiedmer described is part of a growing trend, authorities said. Experts on internet crime say scammers are using increasingly sophisticated means to cheat their victims, such as hacking into an email account, learning details about an upcoming funds transfer and using a legitimate-looking email address to tell the victim to transfer money to an account controlled by the scammers. Last year, the FBI received 23,775 complaints about such frauds, with losses of nearly $1.8 billion. That’s a three-fold increase in complaints and a six-fold jump in reported losses, compared with five years before.

“Technology is definitely changing the landscape of financial transactions,” said Zacharia Baldwin, supervisory special agent in the FBI’s financial crime section in Washington, D.C. “Everybody wants speed and convenience. And sometimes that can also create areas of exploitation for the bad guys.”

Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said Wiedmer’s case “is a very complex criminal investigation requiring numerous resources, and we have detectives specializing in this type of fraud assigned to the case.” Police and Wiedmer asked Newsday not to publish the names of her attorney and real estate agent. Newsday is abiding by the request.

High-profile targets of similar Internet crimes include “Shark Tank” star and real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran, whose bookkeeper received an email last month from someone posing as Corcoran’s assistant, approving a payment of nearly $389,000, the website TMZ.com reported. This week, People magazine reported that Corcoran said she ended up getting the money back, after her bank “put pressure” on a German bank to freeze the money before the scammer could collect it from a Chinese account.

The FBI fielded more than 467,000 complaints about internet crime of all sorts last year, including identity theft, romance scams and investment fraud, with more than $3.5 billion in losses. New Yorkers reported total internet crime losses of nearly $200 million, the fifth-highest in the nation.

Even Nassau County has been a target. In October, the county comptroller’s office paid $710,000 to scammers who had posed as a county contractor and sent an email with new wiring instructions. The funds were later recovered. County Comptroller Jack Schnirman said controls in place at his office immediately identified the fraud, allowing the funds to be frozen. Additional security measures have been added, he said.

In many cases, it is difficult or impossible to recover funds stolen through wire transfers. Scammers often engage in “layering,” or moving money through a network of accounts, breaking it up into smaller amounts, converting it into cash, virtual currency or gift cards and moving it overseas, the FBI’s Baldwin said.

“The whole goal in money laundering and the layering technique is to hide the funds,” Baldwin said. The FBI has created new teams dedicated to recovering such funds, and in its first full year of operations one of those teams recovered $300 million, the FBI reported.

Scams perpetrated by criminals overseas pose even greater challenges than domestic frauds, internet crime experts said.

“Once the money goes offshore, finding the perpetrator is almost impossible, and recovering the money is almost impossible,” said Steven Kuperschmid, co-chair of the cybersecurity and data privacy practice at the law firm Ruskin Moscou Faltischek in Uniondale. Some bar associations recommend that attorneys instruct their clients not to rely on email instructions about fund transfers, and to call the attorney’s office to verify all wiring instructions, Kuperschmid said.

Laws protecting consumers’ data generally “impose responsibility on the person or entity who got hacked, and the theory is that by imposing that liability, people will do a better job of protecting other people’s data,” Kuperschmid said. Ethical rules for attorneys also require consumer protections, he said. However, it isn’t always possible to determine how the scammers got access to the information, and even if the scammer’s email appears to come from the attorney, the scammer could have gotten the information from another account – including those of a real estate agent or home-buyer, he said.

Jerry Siegelman, chair of the real estate practice at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, said more than half the home purchases he handles involve down-payment wire transfers by home buyers. It’s less common to send the full purchase amount by wire, but it does happen, especially if a client cannot attend the closing in person or if the proceeds of a sale will go toward the home purchase, he said. “I’ve been fortunate not to have this problem, but I’ve heard of issues like this where…wire instructions are forwarded and of course they end up being sent to a bank, typically overseas,” Siegelman said.

Consumer advocates said existing laws do little to prevent such scams or help consumers recover their money.

“These are just tragic situations, and people can lose huge amounts of money and the protections are really lacking,” said Lauren Saunders, associate director of the National Consumer Law Center in Washington, D.C.

A federal law called the Electronic Fund Transfer Act protects consumers from unauthorized transfers out of their bank accounts, but there’s “ambiguity” about whether the law applies when a consumer is duped into transferring funds, Saunders said.

In addition, Saunders said, the USA Patriot Act gives authorities tools to prevent and investigate money-laundering and other financial crimes by terrorists, but not necessarily by scam artists.

New laws or regulations – or changes to existing measures – are sorely needed, perhaps by making existing measures applicable to wire transfer fraud schemes, she said.

Another potential change is to make banks that receive fraudulent wire transfers responsible for consumers’ losses, which could prompt banks to step up their efforts to prevent such frauds, she said. “We need to pay more attention to these types of payment scams and come up with better protections for consumers and better red flags for institutions to look for,” Saunders said, “so they can stop these types of scams in their tracks.”

So far, Wiedmer said, she has not gotten any indication that she will be able to recover the money stolen from her.

The scam targeting her got underway on Dec. 30 at 9:46 a.m., when Wiedmer began receiving bogus emails that appeared to be from her attorney, with the caveat that he was on jury duty. The next day, Wiedmer said, she drove to the bank where she kept her life savings, including the proceeds of a recent inheritance from an aunt and uncle. She showed the instructions to a bank employee, making sure he followed the instructions carefully, she said.

A few days into the new year, Wiedmer said she received a call from her attorney’s secretary, who said she had gotten a strange call about a wire transfer.

“Well, I’ve been going back and forth with you for the past week about the wire transfer, and I transferred the money,” Wiedmer recalled telling the secretary. “She said, ‘what money?'”

The secretary put the attorney on the phone. He told her the emails had not come from him.

“I was crying on the phone with my lawyer, pleading with him…asking him to tell me that this is a joke,” Wiedmer recalled. That day, she called her bank and Nassau County police. Later, she reported the loss to the FBI.

Now she’s still living in her rental apartment, surrounded by the cardboard boxes she had already started packing to get ready for the move. She has lost not just her savings, she said, but “my dream of owning my own house.”

She said she hopes talking about her experience might help someone else avoid the same fate.

“The reason I’m doing this interview is to warn people,” she said. “You have to scrutinize everything.”


How to protect yourself

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has warned consumers to be on the alert for wire transfer fraud schemes. The suggestions include:

  • Identify two people you can trust to confirm payment instructions. Confirm wiring instructions with them by phone or in person, not by email.
  • Avoid using phone numbers or links in emails.
  • Do not email financial information.
  • Even on a phone call, be wary. Scammers may call and ask you for personal or financial information.
  • If you suspect you have been the victim of fraud, immediately contact your bank or wire-transfer company and the authorities, including the FBI.

Andrew Lieb, a Smithtown attorney, said law firms and real estate brokerages should use email signatures warning recipients to avoid relying on wire transfer instructions sent by email, and to check all instructions by phone.

“Everything needs to be verified,” Lieb said. “That is the answer; there is no other answer.”

Diane Tomb, chief executive officer of the American Land Title Association, a trade group in Washington, D.C., said in a statement that consumers should use “a known number — not a number obtained from an email — when they are wiring money.”

Long Island’s Top Work Places

To find out, Newsday had the consulting and research firm Energage anonymously poll more than 11,000 employees at 82 LI employers, on everything from pay and benefits to leadership and company alignment.

After analyzing all the results of the 82 companies that participated in the survey, Newsday and Energage have selected 66 as top Long Island workplaces and we are proud to spotlight the winners in each category, along with a look at what their employees had to say, islandwide trends and much more.

Large Employers
500+ Long Island workers

TOP LARGE EMPLOYER NEW YORK LIFE – LONG ISLAND

LARGE EMPLOYER RUNNER-UP BNB Bank

LARGE EMPLOYER 2ND RUNNER-UP PIPING ROCK HEALTH PRODUCTS

Employees at other top workplaces talk about their companies

Adults and Children with Learning & Developmental Disabilities, Inc. (human and social services) “I know my job affects the people that I support, and I feel really good after getting something accomplished.”

BNB Bank “Senior leadership is always available to me. If I need to talk to someone through a phone call or email, it is always taken. This is not usually the case at other banks.”

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (research) “I feel that I’m contributing in a very small way to the betterment of our world through the scientific research done at the lab.”

Family Service League Inc. (human and social services) “When you can help someone, who has lost a loved one to suicide, and then be supported by colleagues after the emotional intervention – even if it’s in the evening or on a weekend – you know you are part of a great team and you’re working in the right place.”

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (health care) “Knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s life during the tough time they are going through is so very rewarding to me. This job has made me decide to go back to school this fall and I am hoping to move up in this company and become a nurse one day!”

New York Life – Long Island “I have real pride for the work I do helping clients with their finances and putting safety measures in place for the unexpected. My family and friends were underinsured before I started this career.”

Piping Rock Health Products, LLC (vitamins and nutritional supplements) “The production of vitamins is very interesting, and the company is growing a lot because it is making the best decisions.”

Stony Brook Southampton Hospital “I grew up in this town, so I know quite a few of the patients and enjoy caring for them. I feel like management really cares about all the employees and our safety.”

WellLife Network Inc. (social services and addiction recovery) “I am caring for children that need mental health support. This is very important to me as a social worker and is why I went into this profession.”

Zebra Technologies Corp. (barcode scanners, printers and mobile computers) “Open and transparent communications from upper management allow me to be proactive in planning my work and family life accordingly, especially during this pandemic.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquarters CityHQ stateLI LocationsLI Employees
1New York Life – Long Island1845Cooperative/MutualFinancial planningMelvilleNY5779
2BNB Bank1910PublicCommunity bankBridgehamptonNY34505
3Piping Rock Health Products, LLC2011PrivateManufacturingBohemiaNY8572
4Family Service League. Inc.1926PrivateHuman and social servicesHuntingtonNY25815
5Zebra Technologies Corp.1969PublicTechnologyLincolnshireIL1946
6Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory1890Non-profitResearchCold Spring HarborNY1943
7Stony Brook Southampton Hospital1909Non-profitHospitalsSouthamptonNY11,330
8New York Cancer & Blood Specialists1985PartnershipHealth carePort Jefferson StationNY15875
9WellLife Network Inc1980PrivateChildren, family, human servicesSmithtownNY12550
10Adults and Children with Learning & Developmental Disabilities, Inc.1957Non-profitHuman and social ServicesBethpageNY100938

Midsize Employers
150-499 Long Island workers

TOP MIDSIZE EMPLOYER HEALTH CARE PARTNERS

MIDSIZE EMPLOYER RUNNER-UP EXIT REALTY ACHIEVE

MIDSIZE EMPLOYER 2ND RUNNER-UP POWER HOME REMODELING

Employees at other top workplaces talk about their companies

Association for Mental Health and Wellness (human and social services) “My job enables me to provide necessary support to clients to enhance their motivation and confidence, and to educate them on how to find resources to help them succeed that they would otherwise not receive.”

CN Guidance & Counseling Services (human and social services) “We get to help those people in the community that need help, and we do it with a great team.”

Darby Dental Supply, LLC “I look around and see all the employees that have been here for 10, 20 and 30-plus years. I think that alone speaks volumes about how this is a very fair and rewarding company.”

EXIT Realty Achieve (real estate) “Helping a family make one of the most important decisions in their lives, being able to guide them correctly, and seeing how it makes them happy is amazing.”

Family & Children’s Association (social services) “We are a family who strives to be our very best for those who need us.”

Grassi Advisors & Accountants “I love my job because I get to utilize my accounting skills and work with professionals and clients that I can learn from.”

H2M Architects + Engineers “My ideas are respected, and I am given space to explore them further.”

HealthCare Partners, Management Service Organization “Our president, Dr. Robert LoNigro, hosts weekly webinars to let us know how the organization is doing. He encourages us to ask questions and provides honest answers to those questions.”

Kimco Realty Corp. (commercial real estate) “I love my job because of the good that I am able to do in getting tenants into a space which provides a livelihood for them.”

Marcum LLP (accounting) “Senior managers allow us to ask questions and don’t just expect us to do things a certain way because ‘that’s how it’s always been done.’ ”

Options for Community Living Inc. (housing and other services for vulnerable populations) “I feel like I’m making a difference in our clients’ lives and an impact on the surrounding community.”

Posillico (construction) “The coronavirus put a serious stress on all employees and senior managers tried to ensure all could work as safe as possible because we are deemed essential workers.”

Power Home Remodeling “My managers allow me to fail and get back up stronger. They have trust in me and I have trust in them. The work environment is never negative.”

Precipart (components manufacturing) “I love my job because I am able to produce quality parts which help the world.”

Spellman High Voltage Electronics Corp. (manufacturing) “I get to work with great people on interesting projects.”

SUNation Solar Systems (solar panel installation) “CEO Scott Maskin comes in singing most days. It’s a fun place to work and we do a lot of good for the local community by donating solar energy systems and rescuing dogs.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquarters CityHQ stateLI LocationsLI Employees
1HealthCare Partners, MSO1996PrivateHealth careGarden CityNY1240
2EXIT Realty Achieve2010PrivateReal estate agents/brokersSmithtownNY1173
3Power Home Remodeling1992PrivateHome remodelingChesterPA1217
4Posillico1946PrivateConstructionFarmingdaleNY1264
5Kimco Realty Corp.1958PublicCommercial real estate investment trustJerichoNY1226
6Association for Mental Health and Wellness1990Non-profitMental health and wellnessRonkonkomaNY8198
7Marcum LLP1951PartnershipAccounting and consulting advisorsNew YorkNY1187
8Spellman High Voltage Electronics Corp.1947PrivateManufacturingHauppaugeNY1315
9Grassi Advisors & Accountants1980PrivateAccountingJerichoNY2211
10SUNation Solar Systems2003PrivateRenewable energyRonkonkomaNY1174
11Family & Children’s Association1884Non-profitHuman servicesMineolaNY11218
12Darby Dental Supply, LLC1947PrivateDental supply sales and servicesJerichoNY1174
13H2M architects + engineers1933PrivateArchitectural and engineer design servicesMelvilleNY2348
14Options for Community Living, Inc.1982PrivateHuman servicesRonkonkomaNY3218
15CN Guidance & Counseling Services1972Non-profitMental healthHicksvilleNY3277
16Precipart1950PrivateEngineering and manufacturingFarmingdaleNY1285

Small Employers
50 – 149 Long Island workers

TOP SMALL EMPLOYER NATIONAL BUSINESS CAPITAL & SERVICES

SMALL EMPLOYER RUNNER-UP NETWORK SOLUTIONS AND TECHNOLOGY

SMALL EMPLOYER 2ND RUNNER-UP TOTAL TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Employees at other top workplaces talk about their companies

A+ Technology and Security Solutions Inc. (security systems) “We keep kids safe and help give a little comfort in a sometimes-uncomfortable world.”

Above All Store Fronts, Inc. (construction) “The company encourages new ideas and allows me to challenge myself in additional areas to do what I can to help my department grow and become more efficient.”

American Portfolios Financial Services Inc. (broker/dealer) “We are encouraged to do good things in our own town. It’s unlike any other company that I’ve been a part of.”

Appliance World (retailing) “Everyday, I feel proud to work here and be a part of something that is growing at a rapid pace. I’m believed in by my leaders and am well compensated.”

Aurora Contractors, Inc. (construction) “Employees are constantly looking for new exciting and active ways to come together and have fun, such as company picnics, badminton tournaments, rock climbing, bowling and game nights.”

Austin Williams (advertising) “There is occasionally some healthy critique of the work that I produce. Sometimes I’m asked, ‘Why not this way or why not that way?’ Usually I have an answer but sometimes I don’t. I find this healthy criticism extremely helpful because although I believe I’m very good at what I do, I’m far from perfect.”

BBS Architects, Landscape Architects & Engineers, P.C. “I love my job because I get to design spaces that support the education of our youth.”

Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a Mass Mutual Firm (insurance) “My job allows me to impact the lives of my clients in a very positive and meaningful way because I’m giving them lifelong financial advice.”

College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving “It feels good to help others during a stressful move and provide professionalism and promote positivity during the move.”

DUKAL Corp. (medical devices) “I have never been treated better by any employer and I’ve been in health care sales for nearly 25 years.”

Engel Burman (real estate development) “I love my job because I participate in building great things that help people, and I enjoy the process.”

Future Tech Enterprise (information technology) “At the beginning of the stay-at-home, CEO Bob Venero called me to see how I was doing. It meant the world to me that he took time out of his busy schedule to see how I was doing.”

Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. (engineering) “I love my job because I have the opportunity to work on amazing structures and follow my passions in bridge building.”

Janover LLC (accountants) “I am able to assist clients in making the right decisions for their businesses based on accurate financial information.”

KidsFirst Evaluation and Advocacy Center (special education) “Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined working with a company that allows me to work within and through some of my own limitations.”

Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles LLP (attorneys) “The firm allows me to practice law in a professional nonrestrictive environment.”

Long Island Select Healthcare, Inc. (medical clinics) “I get to help care for people who need help, those who live in the community that I live in. For this I am proud.”

Louis K McLean Associates Engineers & Surveyors, PC (civil engineering) “I love my job because I’m able to grow in knowledge of the things that I care about and gain experiences in many areas of engineering.”

McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, and Riordan, LLP (attorneys) “My job allows me to do a great public service helping injured workers.”

Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp. “I make people happy when I can help them obtain a home.”

Mercy Haven, Inc. (human and social services) “I love my job because I get to help people in need and give back to the community.”

National Business Capital & Services (small business lending) “I feel like I am at my second home with a family that all has a similar goal: to create a smooth and efficient business financing platform for business owners and partners to take advantage of.”

National Consumer Panel (researchers) “I work without feeling pressured and at the end of the day, I don’t worry about not wanting to go back to work the next day. I always look forward to it.”

Network Solutions & Technology (information technology) “I like solving problems and providing positive business outcomes. I need to listen to my clients’ obstacles and find some way to help them overcome their issues.”

New Vitality (vitamins and nutritional supplements) “There is a level of trust to make my own decisions, but managers are always available to help find the right route. We are helping people live better and stay healthy.”

NY State Solar (solar panel installation) “Work feels like a second family, especially after a company trip to Greece at the end of 2019. It was the best time of my life.”

Plesser’s Appliances (retailing) “I get along with all of my coworkers and work in one of the busiest appliance stores in the country.”

P.W. Grosser Consulting (engineering) “I am so proud to work for a company that works toward a greener, more sustainable future.”

Prepaid Ventures, Ltd. (financial technology) “I am trusted and valued for the work that I do, and they show their appreciation. Everyone works as a team, which helps us grow as a business.”

Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC “I love helping seniors make a better life for themselves. Reverse Mortgage Funding is a nice working environment with nice people, lots of laughs and some tears – just like a second family.”

SAIL, Inc. (human and social services) “We are helping individuals change the course of their lives in a positive way.”

Stasi Brothers Asphalt & Masonry “I am respected for my abilities and given the opportunity to change things that need to be improved. They treat us all like family and go above and beyond what most bosses would do.”

SupplyHouse.com (plumbing, heating and ventilation supplies) “It doesn’t feel like my company would ever step on us or try to take anything away from us just to make a profit. And I feel like every decision they make is good for our customers and for us.”

Total Technology Solutions (information technology) “As an IT company that operates 24/7 in the pandemic, it is imperative that we continue to support local governments as well as our other clients consisting of law firms, accounting firms and many more.”

Transervice Logistics Inc. (transportation) “My job is never dull. There is continued growth, trust and appreciation from management and the employees.”

Tweezerman International (personal care products) “I feel like I’m valued and my opinion matters.”

United Northern Mortgage Bankers Limited “I am encouraged to become better at my job. The company pays for my training and gives me the time off to take it.”

United States Luggage Company (wholesale distributor) “People are treated like human beings here and not like some replaceable automaton. Ideas are welcome and encouraged. Positive energy is something commonplace here.”

VHB Engineering, Surveying, Landscape Architecture and Geology, P.C. “I feel like I play a vital and appreciated role in significant projects. And I feel like I have the proper room and encouragement to continue growing my career.”

Yardi Systems, Inc. (real estate software) “The company encourages you to find your niche if you are not feeling challenged in your current environment. Their approach is ‘where do you see yourself?’ and then they help you to achieve that goal.”

RankEmployerFoundedOwnershipSectorHeadquarters CityHQ stateLI LocationsLI Employees
1National Business Capital & Services2007PrivateBusiness financingBohemiaNY187
2Network Solutions and Technology (NST)2001PrivateInformation technologyEast NorthportNY154
3Total Technology Solutions1988PrivateInformation technology, cybersecurityMelvilleNY150
4Aurora Contractors, Inc.1983PrivateConstruction managementRonkonkomaNY153
5Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions, a Mass Mutual Firm1851Cooperative/MutualGeneral insuranceEast HillsNY1140
6SupplyHouse.com2004PrivateE-commerceMelvilleNY1135
7American Portfolios Financial Services Inc.2001PrivateBroker/dealerHolbrookNY1117
8McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, and Riordan, LLP1955PrivateWorkers’ compensationBay ShoreNY254
9United Northern Mortgage Bankers Limited1979PrivateMortgage lendingLevittownNY1108
10DUKAL Corp.1991PrivateMedical Devices & ProductsRonkonkomaNY165
11Yardi Systems, Inc.1984PrivateCustom Software Development & ConsultingSanta BarbaraCA1149
12P.W. Grosser Consulting1990PrivateEnvironmental engineeringBohemiaNY150
13Future Tech Enterprise1996PrivateInformation technologyHolbrookNY1110
14United States Luggage Company1911PrivateWholesale distributorHauppaugeNY165
15Janover LLC1938PrivateCertified public accountantsGarden CityNY199
16Stasi Brothers Asphalt & Masonry1962PrivateConstructionWestburyNY170
17Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP1993PrivateLawIslandiaNY1145
18NY State Solar2015PrivateSolarHicksvilleNY386
19Transervice Logistics Inc.1969PrivateTransportationLake SuccessNY161
20Louis K McLean Associates Engineers & Surveyors, PC1950PrivateCivil engineeringBrookhavenNY285
21A+ Technology and Security Solutions Inc.1989PrivateValue Added Reseller – Information TechnologyBay ShoreNY183
22Appliance World1992PrivateAppliancesHuntingtonNY262
23National Consumer Panel2010PrivateData analysis & researchSyossetNY175
24Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC2012PrivateReverse mortgagesBloomfieldNJ168
25College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving2011PrivateMoving and junk removalTampaFL199
26Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp.2010PrivateMortgage lendingWestburyNY2125
27New Vitality1998PublicMultivitamin supplementsEdgewoodNY159
28MSH Inc. dba Plesser’s Appliances1919PrivateElectronics & appliancesBabylonNY350
29SAIL, Inc.1982PrivateHuman and social servicesBaldwinNY7132
30KidsFirst Evaluation and Advocacy Center1997PrivateSpecial education support servicesDeer ParkNY290
31Austin Williams1982PrivateAdvertisingHauppaugeNY150
32Prepaid Ventures, Ltd.2007PrivateFinancial servicesNew Hyde ParkNY150
33BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, P.C.1985PrivateArchitecture & engineeringPatchogueNY163
34VHB Engineering, Surveying, Landscape Architecture and Geology, P.C.1979PrivateEngineering and designing servicesWatertownMA162
35Mercy Haven, Inc.1985Non-profitHuman and social servicesIslip TerraceNY577
36Above All Store Fronts, Inc.1993PrivateConstructionHauppaugeNY180
37Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.1966PrivateConstructionBabylonNY2130
38Engel Burman1997PrivateReal estate developmentGarden CityNY271
39Long Island Select Healthcare, Inc.2016PrivateHealth servicesCentral IslipNY6113
40Tweezerman International1980PrivateBeauty productsPort WashingtonNY1115

Special Awards
Companies that employees scored highest in each category

Leadership (large) Karen Boorshtein
Family Service League

Leadership (midsize) Robert LoNigro
HealthCare Partners, MSO

Leadership (small) Vincent Tedesco
Total Technology Solutions

Direction Piping Rock Health Products

Managers Power Home Remodeling

New ideas National Business Capital & Services

Doers College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving

Meaningfulness Aurora Contractors, Inc.

Values Network Solutions and Technology

Clued in senior management BNB Bank

Communication Zebra Technologies Corporation

Appreciation Posillico

Work/life flexibility McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, and Riordan, LLP

Training Association for Mental Health and Wellness

Benefits Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Find a top workplace
No matter where you are on LI, there’s a top workplace near you

The Methodology

Facing adversity

Home office

Creative work-from-home setups during COVID

Working from home isn’t easy, but these Long Islanders are making it work.

Ruff day at the “home” office?

Never, Suzy Silverstein might say. Silverstein, a project manager at VHB Engineering, set up her workspace on her pool deck in the company of her favorite four-legged colleagues, Bubbles, a dachshund, and Blanket, a two-year-old Juliana mini pig, who also goes by Blanky, Blankarooni or Blankisaurus.

Suzy Silverstein, project manager at VHB Engineering, sits with her pets, Blanket, who was adopted from a farm in Tennessee, and Bubbles, a dachshund.

Those not fortunate enough to work poolside created variations of their “home office” space, some making do with makeshift desks and chairs, others claiming their “corner office” in quiet, kid-free, no-traffic zones in their den, kitchen, bedroom, basement, or other spaces.

Pattie Dougherty of Huntington Station, an employee of H2M Architects + Engineers, found a secluded and quiet workspace — in the back of her SUV.

A Huntington Station woman, Pattie Dougherty, of H2M Architects + Engineers, designed her own mobile space — in the back of her SUV.

Now, can you take breaks when working from home? One employee found a quick minute to stretch her legs, while others sought company with their kids, sometimes giving crying babies a lift.

Josef Kapsa of BBS said his commute was a breeze during COVID.

Working from the “home” office sure has its perks. You can go Friday casual or wear a tie. Suit yourself. And when you can finally take that much-delayed staycation to spend time with your two-legged companions (socially distanced, of course) you can even set your email to say: I will be out of the (home) office until next week.

Ruth Franklin, a supervisor in the assurance services department at Marcum LLP, has been working from her Massapequa home since COVID-19 began.

Oh, another perk of working from home: You don’t have to deal with those petty office pet peeves. (But if you’re seriously wondering whether Bubbles and Blanky get along, you may just have to get back to the office.)

To see more employees of Long Island’s Top Workplaces sharing their home-office setups, click here.

— Leema Thomas

Heroes

Long Islanders rise to the occasion during COVID

Some employees went the extra mile, according to the employers who nominated their staff as workplace heroes.

The state went on pause but the pandemic kept many employees on their toes, with some going the extra mile, according to the employers who nominated their staff as workplace heroes.

In her role as an office leader for the Emerging Professionals Group at VHB, Elyse Belarge led a Wellness Series for colleagues, her employer said. The series provided content for employees on topics including exercising, meditation, stretching, eating healthy, stress relief, local outdoor activities, and TED Talks related to mental health.

One employee initiated a wellness series for colleagues.

Marian Barr, senior specialist at New York Life Insurance Co. in Melville, not only continued to work in the office despite her compromised immune system as a cancer survivor, but also started a food drive, and then drove around distributing food and supplies to hospital workers and cancer patients.

Another not only continued to work in the office despite her compromised immune system as a cancer survivor but she also started a food drive, and then drove around distributing food and supplies to hospital workers and cancer patients, her employer said.

Suzanne Wenz, a senior program manager at Zebra Technologies Corp. in Holtsville, helped organize weekly volunteering efforts at the Island Harvest food bank over the past few months.

Across companies on Long Island, these workers rose to the occasion and were recognized for their passion and dedication, for their philanthropy and volunteerism, for helping their businesses survive and thrive.

Austin Williams’ creative director Bryan Hynes wears a company-branded gaiter face covering he helped design for employees to return to the office.

One even used his creative skills to help design a face covering for employees to return to the office.

To see more employees of Long Island’s Top Workplaces who have gone the extra mile, click here.

— Leema Thomas

Determination

LIers show up to work, in PPE gear

Although COVID-19 put a brake on many business operations, a number of Long Islanders across various sectors, showed up to work — in their offices or in the field — in PPE gear.

Call it the pandemic couture.

Although COVID-19 put a brake on many business operations, a number of Long Islanders across various sectors, showed up to work — in their offices or in the field. While business was surely not as usual, these employees stepped up to the (fashion) plate, dressing for style, health and success.

Abu Jinnah, in PPE gear, works as a blending operator at Piping Rock Health Products’ Farmingdale facility. Credit: Piping Rock Health Products

Employees — from doctors, nurses, accountants, architects, engineers, mental health and social service workers, volunteers and even summer interns — kept the business engine running, suited up in various personal protective gear including facial coverings, masks, gloves, N95 respirators and other accessories, mindful of following health-mandated protocols.

Carlos Vargas, landscape architecture team leader at VHB Engineering, works in the field.

Some like Carlos Vargas, landscape architecture team leader at VHB Engineering, worked alone in the field.

From left, CN Guidance & Counseling employees Ayodeji Grace Oloke, Alexandria Attivissimo, Taylor Alicanti, Ama Serwah and Christina Metz.

Others like Ayodeji Grace Oloke, Alexandria Attivissimo, Taylor Alicanti, Ama Serwah and Christina Metz, all employees at CN Guidance & Counseling Services, worked in the office.

Alison Longstreet, left, and Greg Genovese, right, both employees at New York Life Insurance Company’s Jericho office,delivered dinner to the OR night crew at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip.

Yet others like Greg Genovese and Alison Longstreet, both employees at New York Life Insurance Co., outfitted in their PPE, delivered meals to the “overnight crew” at a hospital. We “decided we needed to do something to show our appreciation,” Longstreet said.

From H2M Architects + Engineers employees at a job site in protective helmets and masks to fashion forward real estate agent Rudy Rodriguez donning disposable boot covers and carrying hand sanitizers, businesses and employees put safety first.

Howie Richards,managing director at Spellman High Voltage, is suited up in his PPE gear.

So, yes, while the pandemic may have crimped many personal styles, Long Islanders looked haute, or cool, as they put their best face forward and performed their jobs.

To see more employees of Long Island’s Top Workplaces who have had to don PPE to do their jobs, click here.

— Leema Thomas

Camaraderie

What employees have missed most while working from home

From shared workspaces to chitchats, Long Island employees missed aspects of being in the office that ranged from the mundane to the esoteric.

Birthdays, baby showers, office parties.

A thriving workplace is also one that’s convivial.

Chit-chats around the office water-cooler or copy machine sharing morsels of gossip can help build camaraderie and foster career growth.But the pandemic put a kibosh on in-person, face-to-face office bashes and gatherings this year.

Christiana Kastalek, environmental planner at VHB Engineering, said, “I miss the ability to have conversations with coworkers in person. Face-to-face conversations are so valuable not only in regard to socializing but for an emerging professional in the field, those conversations serve as a tool in learning and advancing my career.”

Those working remotely perhaps sorely missed their “work spouses” and suffered a bout of anxiety after their sudden separation from their work partners and shared workspaces during the lockdown, and what they missed most about the office ranged from the mundane to the esoteric.

To see more employees of Long Island’s Top Workplaces discuss what they miss about being in the office, click here.

— Leema Thomas

Connecting

Long Islanders work — and play — on Zoom

For countless remote workers, virtual video conferencing has become the primary link to staying in touch with colleagues and managers.

OK, Zoomers! (Now, that’s a compliment!)

For countless remote workers, virtual video conferencing has become the primary link to staying in touch with colleagues and managers.

Employees at Aurora Contractors, Inc. hold a Zoom meeting.

Chances are if you are a non-millennial, you needed a lesson or two on how to get the lights, camera and audio going. Perhaps seeing a sea of faces on your desktop or laptop monitors made you jittery, and you made a mental note to comb your hair and put on a clean T-shirt the next time. Or, perhaps, you’ve committed a few Zoom faux pas (wait, was that your toddler who walked in front of the camera crying “mommy” as you were about to clinch that deal?) or someone Zoom-bombed your meeting.

Love it or hate it, you have come to live with it and get on with the business.

EXIT Achieve Realty’s team convenes on Zoom in late March.

Employees at Grassi Advisors & Accountants, EXIT Realty Achieve and Aurora Contractors were among businesses that connected with their staff via Zoom meetings.

Grassi employees from the Jericho, Ronkonkoma, White Plains, New York City and New Jersey offices heard from CEO and managing partner Louis C. Grassi in weekly Zoom meetings when employees worked remotely.

Grassi employees from the Jericho, Ronkonkoma, White Plains, New York City and New Jersey offices stayed connected through weekly Zoom check-ins. Even the company’s CEO and managing partner, Louis C. Grassi, checked in.

But all work and no play make Jack and Jill quite dull people.

CN Guidance & Counseling Service employees on Zoom, from left, Adriana Kijko, Linda Masotto, Catherine Clarke, Thomas Jablonski, Victoria Elwell, Alysia Sobhraj, Martine Ritter and Ariel Coffman.

Employees of CN Guidance and Counseling Services gathered on Zoom for a game of scavenger hunt. And National Consumer Panel’s employee engagement committee held several virtual events, from virtual trivia to “Watercooler Chats” and bingo, to “boost morale and keep employees connected.”

National Consumer Panel’s Employee Engagement Committee held a number of virtual events for employees working remotely due to COVID-19. They play virtual trivia, seen here, hold “Watercooler Chats,” play bingo and hold other events to help boost morale and keep employees connected.

Now, if you haven’t zoned out on Zoom sessions at least once, kudos. If you haven’t had your fill yet, “see” you later.

— Leema Thomas

A letter from
Newsday’s Publisher,
Debby Krenek

Debby Krenek, Newsday Publisher

Flexible. Dedicated. Resilient. Words we’ve heard a lot over the past few months as organizations describe the challenging times they’ve faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. And it’s not just their businesses they’re describing, it’s also their workforce.

Be it with kids in their arms or pets at their feet, at make-shift home offices or on-the-go in their mobile offices, despite the many hurdles they tackle each day, employees at the Top Long Island Workplaces are learning to adapt to these unprecedented times.

Top Long Island Workplaces honor organizations where employees feel engaged, appreciated and empowered. Nominated by their own employees, these places of work are leading the way for others in the business community. All of us at Newsday feel privileged to be able to recognize organizations right here on Long Island, who are truly doing it right.

History has taught us that during times where we are tested the most, it is also a time of great opportunity. And though the pandemic has impacted business in many ways, where we go from here has yet to be written. Top honors today can help shape Long Island’s next chapter.

Congratulations to all of the 2020 Top Workplaces.

Could your job be automated? See study’s full list of LI jobs at risk

Could a machine do your job? Yes, says one study, or at least 80 percent of it.

If you’re a mail clerk, a baker, a butcher, a sewing machine operator, a tire repair person, a payroll clerk or you do any of 79 other jobs on Long Island, your position is at high risk of automation, according to a study by the Center for an Urban Future, a think tank that advocates for the creation of middle-class jobs.

“The State of Work: The coming impact of automation on New York,” found jobs in which at least 80 percent of the tasks could be automated. On Long Island, that’s a total of 182,650 positions that could be affected. Not all of the jobs would disappear; some may just be transformed, the group said.

Read more about the study here and see below for the full list of jobs, how many of these jobs there are on Long Island and what percent of the tasks could be automated.

Occupation2016 Long IslandAutomation Potential
Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food 23,440 86.67%
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks 22,000 85.62%
Stock Clerks and Order Fillers 20,340 86.40%
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers 9,210 81.41%
Cooks, Restaurant 8,530 84.02%
Food Preparation Workers 7,520 91.35%
Billing and Posting Clerks 6,950 87.65%
Counter Attendants, Cafeteria, Food Concession, and Coffee Shop 4,400 88.15%
Dishwashers 4,050 85.64%
Driver/Sales Workers 4,010 81.37%
Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers 3,720 86.21%
Word Processors and Typists 3,610 90.43%
Painters, Construction and Maintenance 3,530 89.75%
Cooks, Fast Food 3,340 88.55%
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers 2,980 89.15%
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders 2,830 100.00%
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators 2,710 88.15%
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks 2,590 80.61%
Data Entry Keyers 2,310 86.40%
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria 2,210 90.04%
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators 2,120 91.70%
Helpers–Production Workers 2,020 96.99%
Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators 2,010 80.07%
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 1,940 92.27%
Automotive Body and Related Repairers 1,800 85.41%
Phlebotomists 1,730 89.40%
Printing Press Operators 1,710 86.14%
Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers 1,620 88.29%
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity 1,560 85.37%
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks 1,540 87.39%
Library Assistants, Clerical 1,360 80.13%
Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service 1,220 93.72%
Bakers 1,190 93.47%
Food Batchmakers 1,140 92.95%
Cooks, Short Order 1,040 91.24%
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers 960 91.90%
Butchers and Meat Cutters 950 92.80%
Sewing Machine Operators 920 97.86%
Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic 730 94.60%
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 670 98.92%
Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing 650 91.40%
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 630 90.23%
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 610 91.78%
Motor Vehicle Operators, All Other 560 81.73%
Tile and Marble Setters 520 87.03%
Office Machine Operators, Except Computer 490 92.94%
Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers 470 95.96%
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 470 91.22%
Dental Laboratory Technicians 460 97.06%
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators 440 83.08%
Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 430 97.05%
Prepress Technicians and Workers 410 93.42%
Sailors and Marine Oilers 410 89.03%
Print Binding and Finishing Workers 410 87.10%
Painters, Transportation Equipment 400 91.20%
Food Cooking Machine Operators and Tenders 350 91.73%
Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 340 94.10%
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians 330 100.00%
Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders 320 88.67%
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators 320 85.60%
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters 310 91.74%
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles 300 80.75%
Production Workers, All Other 290 97.19%
Carpet Installers 280 90.25%
Upholsterers 280 89.34%
Tapers 280 80.21%
Furniture Finishers 270 90.32%
Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials 260 98.68%
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 250 93.28%
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 240 95.32%
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 220 94.88%
Tool and Die Makers 210 86.94%
Machine Feeders and Offbearers 200 100.00%
Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic 200 87.81%
Tire Repairers and Changers 190 92.08%
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators 170 94.74%
Sewers, Hand 170 92.99%
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators 160 82.13%
Cutters and Trimmers, Hand 140 96.69%
Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 140 92.55%
Plating and Coating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 120 92.74%
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 120 85.75%
Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas 110 92.72%
Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic 110 89.67%
Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers 100 81.13%

Source: The job numbers are based on 2016 statistics from the state Labor Department.

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Data updated June 18, 2019.

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How do you feel about Facebook after the data scandals?

Facebook logos are shown on a computer screen in Beijing on March 23. Photo Credit: Associated Press

Facebook has been under fire lately for exposing private data from 50 million of its users to Cambridge Analytica, a political consulting firm that was hired by the Trump 2016 campaign.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has since apologized for the incident in a post saying: “We have a responsibility to protect your data, and if we can’t then we don’t deserve to serve you.”

In addition, Facebook has also acknowledged this week that it had been collecting call and text histories from phones running Google’s Android system in 2015.

How have the recent data scandals changed the way you view or use Facebook now? Do you have any major concerns with using the social networking platform?

Submit a response

Thank you for your submission. Check back soon to see if it was posted.

Please respond in 250 words or less. Your response becomes the property of Newsday Media Group. It will be edited and may be republished in all media.

How will you spend your tax refund?

Tax professional and tax preparation firm owner Alicia Utley reaches for tax forms on Jan. 14, 2017, in Boulder, Colo. Credit: AP / Brennan Linsley

Individual refunds averaged around $2,896 last tax season, according to the IRS.

Some people use tax refunds to cover bills and pay down debt, while others sock it away for a rainy day or splurge on something exciting. If you received a refund or are expecting to get one this year, how do you plan to spend it?

If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, this year’s deadline is Tuesday, April 17. And if you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your tax refund, here are some ideas to get you started.

Submit a response

Thank you for your submission. Check back soon to see if it was posted.

Please respond in 250 words or less. Your response becomes the property of Newsday Media Group. It will be edited and may be republished in all media.

TEST, DO NOT DEPLOY!! AJ

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Below are nine popular national and regional chains that are near Long Island, but are not here.

Wegmans

HEADQUARTERS: Rochester, New York

NUMBER OF STORES: 94

CLOSEST STORE: Brooklyn — coming in 2019

Long Island residents who have traveled or lived upstate or in New Jersey might have visited Wegmans grocery stores, which are known for big displays of fresh produce and prepared foods, attentive customer service and well-maintained stores.

In 2016 more than 7,800 people nationally contacted Wegmans asking for a store in their community, the company said.

The family-owned regional market, which turned 100 years old last year, has expanded along the Eastern Seaboard. It has 46 stores in New York, 17 in Pennsylvania and nine in New Jersey, among other locations. On Sept. 24 the company opened its 94th store, in Montvale, New Jersey, said Jo Natale, the company’s vice president of media relations.

In 2019 it will open a location in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. But the chain says it has no plans to come to Long Island.

Each store typically employs 450 to 550 workers, Natale said. For 20 years the company has made Fortune magazine’s list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For. Wegmans ranked No. 2 this year. — Carrie Mason-Draffen

Wawa

HEADQUARTERS: Philadelphia

NUMBER OF STORES: 640

CLOSEST STORE: Hackensack, New Jersey

Thirty miles — and multiple bridges — separate Wawa in New Jersey from Long Island.

But those 30 miles aren’t expected to shrink anytime soon.

The convenience store brews about 195 million cups of coffee and serves 300 million customers each year. They also eat more than 60 million built-to-order hoagies — that’s Philadelphian for

hero or sub — annually. The stores are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Wawa stores offer some of the same products, and are generally the same size, as 7-Eleven stores.

That’s a problem for any competitor interested in the Long Island market, retail experts said.

“7-Eleven is everywhere, and they’re very, very powerful,” said Howard Davidowitz, chairman of Davidowitz & Associates Inc., a retail consulting and investment bank based in Manhattan. “People love their coffee and special drinks and are loyal.”

Wawa declined to comment for this story. But it continues to expand elsewhere, including in Florida, where it plans to open 15 stores this fall. — David Reich-Hale

Roy Rogers

HEADQUARTERS: Frederick, Maryland

NUMBER OF STORES: 54

CLOSEST STORE: Edison, N.J.

Roy Rogers, known for roast beef, fried chicken and hamburgers, was a fast-food mainstay in the Northeast in the 1980s. The chain had more than 600 U.S. locations in 1989.

But in 1990, Marriott Corp. sold the chain to Hardee’s Food Systems, and many Roy Rogers locations were converted into Hardee’s, McDonald’s, Boston Markets, Wendy’s or other brand stores.

By the mid-2000s, there were only about 40 Roy Rogers stores left, most of them located in the Washington, D.C., suburbs and along the New York State Thruway and New Jersey Turnpike.

As in an old western movie, however, Roy Rogers is making a comeback, expanding to more than 50 restaurants. The chain has built up its business in New Jersey and the Washington metro area.

Roy Rogers closed its last Long Island location, in Shirley, in 2010, but is planning a return.

“Probably the biggest obstacle, as in many markets, has been in finding the right location,” said Jim Plamondon, co-president of Roy Rogers Franchise Co. “We are pursuing that goal and are currently in advanced discussions with a prospective new franchisee.” — Ted Starkey


He paved the way for so many musical love affairs from 1971 to 1987, a few blocks away on Bryant Avenue. The original My Father’s Place, which became the first venue inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame in 2010, introduced generations to up-and-coming artists from all over the world, from Hicksville’s Billy Joel and Long Beach’s Billy Crystal to British rockers like The Police and Jamaica’s Bob Marley & The Wailers.

“We want to offer something for everyone,” he says. “If you don’t see it one night, you’ll see it another time. I was always a general practitioner in music and I still am.”

Though the 70-year-old Epstein has dreamed of opening another concert venue in Roslyn for years, My Father’s Place at The Roslyn Hotel came together quickly.


Weeks after the deal was announced, though, it became clear to Epstein how much work had to be done. Walking through the basement space, which housed the hotel’s ballroom, he pointed out all the changes he wanted to make to the 2,700-square-foot space, about half the size of the original club.

“The carpet has to go,” Epstein says. “We’re going to tear down the mirrored doors.”

Standing in a mirrored entranceway, he says, “The stage will go here.”

H3 headline h3 bold

myfathersplace.com