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Friday, July 2, 2021
Vol. 9, No. 27
HOME & DESIGN
WHEATLEY GRAD SPEECH SPARKS FUROR
KAMINSKY DEM CHOICE FOR DA
PAGES 21-28
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Al Fresco debut a hit in Manhasset 1st in a series of events on Plandome Road hosted by Chamber of Commerce BY S A M U E L E PETRUCCELLI Organizers kicked off an afternoon of dining and entertainment on Sunday as the inaugural run of Manhasset Al Fresco, closing part of Plandome Road to make way for tables, old-fashioned cars and a live band. Besides patrons, local elected officials attended the event held just outside North Hempstead Town Hall. Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (D-Manorhaven) said she saw the event as indicative of postpandemic life. “We’re open for business and we’re ready to get back to normal,” she said. “This is the first I hope of many events that we do.” Sillitti noted the event’s importance for businesses that struggled during the coronavirus health restrictions and financial woes. “Anything that we can do to help small businesses recover after the pandemic,” Sillitti said. “Peo-
ple are getting vaccinated, people are going out and about, and we want everybody to ... come to your downtown.” Al Fresco was organized by the Manhasset Chamber of Commerce, whose co-president, Matt Donno, said, “For our first event it’s been fabulous showcasing the businesses and really been a positive for the community.” Sunday was the first of a series, scheduled every other weekend until October, alternating between south and north sections of Plandome Road. Villa Milano, Herb&Olive and other restaurants set up outdoor seating for customers who later in the evening listened to live music performed by the John Byrnes Band. A DJ offered music earlier in the day. Julia Petropoulos, owner of Herb&Olive, has wanted to put up an event like this since last year. Her Greek restaurant opened five Continued on Page 44
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MANHASSET SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Manhasset High School held an in-person commencement ceremony for the class of 2021 on Friday.
Manhasset High School graduates 101st class BY S A M U E L E PETRUCCELLI
the 101st graduating class at Manhasset High School. After starting their school Teachers, parents and year learning from home, the friends gathered last Friday graduates participated in a afternoon to celebrate the 255 commencement in person on students who are members of the campus’ front lawn after
the commencement bell had rung three times: once to honor graduates in the past, another for the present, and a third for the future. Also honored was Diane Continued on Page 35
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