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  <loc>https://votejoedestefano.com/2026/10/22/safety-for-schools/</loc>
  <lastmod>2026-10-22T17:28:19Z</lastmod>
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    <news:name>joedestefano2026</news:name>
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   <news:title>Great news for Medford and the Patchogue-Medford community! I’m proud to announce that we’ve secured $1.9 million in state transportation funding for new sidewalks and pedestrian safety improvements along Buffalo Avenue! This project began in 2021 when Patchogue-Medford High School teacher Shaun Carlson and his students recognized the need for safer walking conditions near their school. When their initial efforts stalled, the Class of 2024 picked up the cause and made it their legacy project. We never gave up on them! I want to give tremendous credit to Shaun Carlson and his students for their determination and persistence. They identified a public safety problem, took action, and demonstrated what young people can accomplish when they get involved in their community. I was especially happy to hear from Shaun following the announcement. His excitement made all those years of hard work worthwhile. This is what constituent service is all about—listening to our community, following through, and delivering results. $1.9 million for safer streets and sidewalks. A lasting legacy for our students and a big win for Medford!</news:title>
   <news:publication_date>2026-10-22T17:25:44Z</news:publication_date>
   <news:genres>Blog</news:genres>
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