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Downturn in the Housing Market? Not on Long Island’s ’Gold Coast’

Mon November 10, 2008 - Northeast Edition
Jennifer Hetrick


Gary Wade of All Island Equipment, West Babylon, N.Y., recently sold a new LeeBoy 8515 paver to EZ Paving Inc., Long Island, N.Y.

In the usual scheme of things, this would not be remarkable. But with the housing market, not to mention the whole economic outlook, being what they are, the sale of a small paver is something to take notice of.

EZ Paving has been in business for more than 37 years serving customers on Long Island. The north shore of Long Island has had an enduring reputation for the affluence of its residents, so much so that it is referred to as the “Gold Coast.” Private estates established in the 19th century by such names as Vanderbilt, Roosevelt and J.P. Morgan first ingrained the area’s reputation, which has remained strong through the country’s financial ups and downs.

In April 2008, the company changed hands from the original owner Adam Belyski to Rich and Michelle Casey. In addition to being a co-owner of the business, Michelle also serves as company president. Her brother, Bill Thompson, is vice president. The new owners of EZ Paving are candid about having a good location in a largely unshakable area. However, despite what realtors might say location isn’t everything.

“The original owner, Adam Belyski, is currently still with us. Although we purchased the business from him, he has remained a vital figure in our company and is always there when we need him,” Rich said. This relationship between the old and new owners has certainly contributed to the success of the company in these challenging economic times, as have the rest of the company’s employees.

“Larry Lopez has been in the industry for over 40 years and is one of our most dedicated employees,” said Rich, “And Bill Thompson and Steve Arenella are my brothers-in-law, so we are truly a family-run business.”

The addition of the LeeBoy 8515 was a boost for the new owners. The list of features on the 8515 includes an 8 to 15 ft. (2.4 to 4.6 m) paving width, dual operator stations, heavy-duty radius hopper wings and an optional Legend Plus electric heated screed. It was this option that most appealed to Rich and Bill. LeeBoy is the only manufacturer that offers the electric heated screed in this size category of pavers. The electric heated screed eliminates the need for propane tanks and the transportation of propane for the paver.

And the purchase of the paver was easy because as Rich said, “All Island Equipment is a pleasure to deal with and their service when we need them is second to none. This kind of relationship will keep our company successful.” CEG




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