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Friday, March 6, 2026
Vol. 86, No. 10
SERVING PLAINVIEW, HICKSVILLE, AND LEVITTOWN
Diner owner feeds hospital workers during blizzard
Members of the nursing staff traded in their stethoscopes for tongs and switched roles to help keep the staff fueled up for their long shifts.Photo courtesy Catholic Health’s St. Joseph Hospital During one of the largest blizzards on record this week, a Bethpage business owner stepped up to the plate (literally) to support local health care workers. On Monday morning, the president of St. Joseph Hospital, Joseph Manopella, contacted the hospital’s neighbor, Gus Tsiorvas, owner of the Embassy Diner in Bethpage, with a request to provide breakfast
for 80 hospital employees who were working through the storm. Without hesitation, Gus prepared and delivered a full breakfast spread — including pancakes, French toast, eggs, hash, sausage, bacon, and potatoes — ensuring frontline staff had a hot meal during a long and challenging shift. In an extraordinary act of generosity, Gus refused to accept payment. “Proof that
great neighbors never waffle in a time of need (pun intended).” His kindness allowed hospital staff to remain focused on caring for patients during dangerous weather conditions, and it serves as a powerful example of local businesses supporting those who care for our community. The diner is located across the street from the hospital.
The Mid-Island Times & Levittown Times is Published every Friday by Litmor Publishing Corp. Periodical Postage paid at Hicksville, N.Y. 11801 Tel 931-0012. USPS 3467-68 Postmaster: Send Address Changes to: The Mid Island & Levittown Times 821 Franklin Ave., Suite 208, Garden City, N.Y. 11530. Meg Norris Publisher
Town plans extra safety patrols due to Iran attack With the FBI’s counterterrorism and intelligence teams on high alert as U.S. operations against Iran continue, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino has announced intensified public safety patrols around houses of worship and government buildings. After collaboration with the Nassau County Police Department, we can assure residents there is no specific threat to our area, however, everyone must work together to keep our communities safe and be vigilant in protecting neighborhoods. “Oyster Bay Public Safety Officers will intensify patrols around temples, synagogues, churches and government buildings,” said Supervisor Sal-
adino. “While at the present time there is no known threat to our community, the Department of Public Safety will work around the clock to ensure the safety of our citizens. Remember, if you see something suspicious, say something. Dial 911.” See Something, Say Something! The Town offered a reminder to residents that they can help law enforcement by serving as an extra set of eyes and ears. Do not assume a package, bag or box was left somewhere by accident. If you see an unattended package, at or outside of a church, temple, synagogue, train station, mall or high traffic area – or if you see anything suspicious, report it.
Polar Plunge returns
The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to ‘Get a Thrill from the Chill’ at the annual Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 28, at TOBAY Beach. “Many of our residents head to TOBAY Beach for summer fun, but this event provides an enjoyable and charitable reason to spend a great day at the beach much sooner,” said
Supervisor Saladino. “Participants will have an opportunity to prove their mettle and their compassion by wading into the chilly waters of TOBAY Beach to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York.” The event kicks off with winter festival fun and registration starting at 9:00 a.m., with the plunge beginning at 11 a.m. Requested donation is $25 per See page 8
Regal Eagle Rampage returns PAGE 4 Students get a taste of flamenco PAGE 2