Meet our Neighbor - RADD CrossFit NSLI in Glen Cove

The CrossFit philosophy is simple and sweet: You are never alone.

 “The journey of fitness is a long and difficult one,” says Diana Jimenez, Operations Director of RADD CrossFit NSLI in Glen Cove. “But CrossFit is different in that you are never alone, and when you embark on our journey, the level of support from the CrossFit community is monumental.  Dreading a workout quickly becomes a thing of the past and looking forward to pushing the limits with good company becomes your motivation.”

The way it works: “CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program that is constantly varied, uses functional movements, and operates at a high intensity,” says Jimenez, adding, “there is no routine, we like to prepare your body for the unknowable by keeping your body guessing.”

CrossFit has a leg up on the fitness biz. “One of our members has a saying, and that is ‘legs all day,’” says Jimenez. “We incorporate leg movements into our routine with the purpose of increasing overall fitness, and let’s just say that this member does more movements to strengthen legs now than he was used to. In the beginning it was a challenge, but as his overall fitness improved, it became a necessity.”

Since it was founded in 2000 by Greg Glassman, CrossFit has grown by leaps and bounds. By 2005 there were 13 gyms affiliated with CrossFit.  Today, there are over 4,400 CrossFit affiliates worldwide, primarily located in the United States, and the number of affiliates continues to grow.  “We are passionate and firmly believe that this is a new age in fitness,” says Jimenez. 

“CrossFit has been life changing for me,” says Roberto Gutierrez, certified trainer and coach at the Glen Cove facility, along with his brother Daniel Gutierrez.  “I was an ex-athlete and had gained a significant amount of weight and I had let myself go in a terrible way physically as well as emotionally,” says Roberto. “My brother introduced me to CrossFit, and after my first workout, I felt like I was back in the gym with my football buddies. Slaps of high fives and positive sayings made me fall in love with CrossFit.  From then on I began to challenge myself in every way and I started making the impossible, possible.”

Roberto’s brother and certified trainer and coach, Daniel Guterriez, also grew up playing sports and went on to become an elementary school teacher and coach. “Having a direct impact on a person’s life through guiding and teaching has always been my passion,” says Daniel, “and while working as a CrossFit coach began as a quest for something fun to do in addition to my teaching career, it is now my lifelong goal to inspire others to strive for a better quality of life through fitness, community, and support on the North Shore of Long Island.”

 

The coaches gauge a member’s fitness level and improvement with benchmark workouts. “Most of our benchmark workouts are named after girls and one of our most popular is ‘Fran.’ Fran is an intense workout that requires you to complete 21, 15 and 9 repetitions of thrusters and pull-ups. Your score is your time and if you improve on your time, we believe you have improved your level of fitness.”

RADD CrossFit had been vetting the perfect Long Island location for a year before the fitness and training company “fell in love” with the community of Glen Cove. “What attracted us most was the friendliness of the people and quaint appeal,” says Jimenez. “Our hope for the future is to move to the area.” She adds, “Other businesses here have been very helpful in our start up process by allowing us to post information and spread the word about RADD CrossFit.  Attending Chamber of Commerce meetings has also been a great way for other businesses to share what works for them and what could potentially work for us in our facility. We plan to promote their efforts and collaborate to plan and host various events that support each other’s endeavors.”

 CrossFit will hit a new benchmark in 2013, with 100,000 people registered to compete in “The CrossFit Games,” says Jimenez. The Games began in the summer of 2007 in order to find the fittest man and woman in the world.  There are three stages to the games that include the Open Sectionals, Regionals, and The Games.  “The greatest part is that anyone can compete in the Open Sectionals,” says Jimenez, adding, “the top 48 people from each region are invited to compete in regionals.  From there the top three individuals from each region are invited to compete in The Games. “Competing in the Open Sectionals is a good way to see how you rank in terms of fitness against the world.”  

RADD CrossFit also hosts nutritional seminars and events throughout the year that are offered to members. “The classes are free and help to inform our members of current nutritional habits that are recommended by the CrossFit community.”

Everyone can participate in CrossFit’s general-fitness program, “from high school students to adults of all ages,” says Jimenez. “Every movement is modifiable so anyone can benefit.” And young kids are getting into the action, too.  “We recently introduced our RADD Kids program for children ages seven-to-fourteen years-old, which meet once a week on Saturdays,” says Jimenez. 

The biggest challenge for CrossFit? “Leaving at night would be the biggest challenge for us,” says Jimenez. “We love what we do and finding time to end the day is a challenge. We want to continue to improve the quality of our service for everyone in the Glen Cove community and we continuously seek out ideas and innovative methods to do so.”

RADD CrossFit NSLI, 65 Sea Cliff Avenue, Glen Cove, NY 11542, 516-855-7348 or www.raddcrossfitnsli.com

Great views on Long Island

"Meet Our Neighbor" Justin’s Toys - Glen Cove, NY

I am excited to feature April's “Meet our Neighbor” series. Each month, I spotlight one of our fabulous North Shore business neighbors. This month, we kid around with Justin’s Toys. 

 

Justin’s Toys in Glen Cove is a perfect example of do what you love, love what you do. “There is nothing more gratifying than a child coming in for the first time, wide-eyed and in awe, ready to play with everything,” says owner Robert Lee, who opened the store last summer. “And let’s be serious, we’re all kids at heart, so what’s cooler than playing with toys all day?”

Mayor Suozzi with Rob Owner of Justin's Toys

 

Although not yet a parent, Lee imagined his store to be stocked with toys that he’d want his own kids to play with someday. “I understand how important play time is, and wanted to impact the community in a positive way by offering games and toys that are both fun and educational.”

The biggest sellers? “Classic toys have come back and, surprisingly, Melissa and Doug is our most popular brand,” says Lee.

 

The Glen Cove resident is no stranger to the business world, or to the local Glen Cove business community. “I was born into an entrepreneur household,” says Lee. “My family owns Glenco Liquors, located in the Glen Cove Stop & Shop Center. When KB Toys went out of business five years ago, my father suggested I open a toy store.” At the time, Lee was a Stony Brook University graduate and working as an actuary in corporate America. “I jumped when the timing was right and I am so happy I made that decision.”

One of the perks of owning a toy store is attending the annual Toy Fair in NYC, which takes place in February. “It is the most outrageous event anyone could ever have the opportunity to experience,” says Lee. 

On the flip side, there are challenges to the business. “We do not purchase many of our toys at the same price as department stores,” Lee explains. “We carry many of these items as a convenience, but it is impossible to offer them at the same price as franchises.” Of course, that’s especially hard for children to understand. “There was a kid who chose one of the biggest Lego sets we have and asked us if he could change the price because his mom said that it wasn't in the budget. We asked how much we should change it to and the boy replied ‘one dollar.’ Out of the mouths of babes.”

 

Justin’s Toys may be a local Glen Cove toy store, but it has a far reach. “We have a popular online website which we launched this past holiday season,” explains Lee. “Most of our website sales are specialty items that are either hard to find or discontinued and, believe it or not, Australia is one of our biggest purchasers for 1Direction Dolls!  In the future, we hope that sales online will be as frequent as sales in our storefront. And, there may be a time where we evolve into becoming toy distributors.”

In the meantime, the Glen Cove store will evolve into hosting kid’s parties. “We had a tie-dye party and it was such a success,” says Lee.  “We will certainly have more crafty events in the near future and we will be kicking off our first birthday party soon. We are going all out with glitter tattoos, arts and crafts, pizza, dancing and Pin the Tail on Eeyore.”

The best kept secret about Justin’s Toys? “We have free gift wrapping for birthdays.”

 

It’s always great to shop locally, says Lee. “Local helps local. When we renovated the front of our store we bought a runner from Glen Floors in Glen Cove, and that weekend a handful of new customers came in saying they’d heard about us through that store.” Lee is also appreciative of the savvy business help he’s received. “It’s so great working with Deborah Orgel-Gordon, the owner of Gem Craft Boutique in Glen Head. She’s a wealth of knowledge and her vast experience with multiple businesses is unmatched.”

 

Justin’s Toys is located at 114 Forest Avenue, Glen Cove; 516-801-3931, www.justinstoys.com.

"Relay for Life" of the North Shore - June 1st 2013

What exactly is Relay for Life and why join? Relay for Life is all about communities across the globe coming together to honor cancer survivors, to remember lost loved ones, and to fight back against a disease that has already taken too much. The funds we raise truly make a difference in the fight against cancer – just ask one of the nearly 14 million cancer survivors who will celebrate another birthday this year! Relay teams camp out overnight and take turns walking and running around a track or path at local high schools, parks, and fairgrounds. Relay for Life events are 24 hours because cancer never sleeps.

If you’ve ever been told, “You have cancer,” we are honored to invite you to attend your local Relay for Life event. As a cancer survivor, you’ll be a distinguished Guest of Honor, cheered on by your community. Cancer patient caregivers are also honored for their support at Relay for Life events. So, whether you’re a survivor or a caregiver, becoming involved in your local Relay for Life will introduce you to others who are facing the same challenges, and provide opportunities for learning, sharing, and friendship. 

2012 Survivors Dinner

 

Gem Craft Boutique's owner, Deborah Orgel Gordon, was eager to jump in and help Relay for Life raise money for American Cancer Society. “My mom has beat breast cancer twice and many other family members and friends have been stricken by cancer over the years,” she says. “I felt it was time to help.” Deborah’s popular shop, Gem Craft Boutique, located in Glen Head, will once again, raise money for the Relay event, with a percentage of the proceeds going to ACS at her fundraiser event on April 9th at Gem Craft Boutique.  “This year, I hope to reach out even more to the community to make them aware of fundraisers, like Relay for Life.”

You can donate to Deborah’s ACS page at http://main.acsevents.org/goto/DeborahOrgelGordon
For more details on Gem Craft Boutique's - April 9th Fundraiser please click here
http://gemcraftboutique.blogspot.com/2013/03/shoppingfundraiser-for-ultimate.html

Meet Our Neighbor: Power Fitness - Long Island Businesses

I am excited to feature this month's "Meet Our Neighbor" series. Each month, I spotlight one of our fabulous North Shore business neighbors. This month, we have a workout with Power Fitness

To ring in a new century of fitness, lifetime Glen Head resident, Justin Miller, did one of his favorite things. He took action and opened Power Fitness in his hometown in January, 2000.

“When I was 19 years old, an amazing man named Tony Robbins indirectly saved my life,” says Miller. “Someone who worked for Robbins literally pulled me from a car wreck, brought me to the hospital and saved my life. He handed my mom his business card in the ER. We lost that card and I never got a chance to thank him but, as a result, I took interest in, and began to study, Tony Robbins.”

Miller actually started out in the fitness business as a personal trainer when he was just 16 years old, after answering a help wanted ad for front desk help at a small gym in Syosset. “The owner was impressed with my knowledge and made me a personal trainer. I have expanded on that knowledge over the last 24 years of my life with many athletic achievements, certifications and working with thousands of people to help them improve their lives through fitness.”

What’s behind the name, “Power Fitness?” Miller explains: “Tony Robbins defines ‘power’ as the ability to take action. It’s one thing to know what to do but it’s another thing to do what you know. The power in our lives comes from taking action.”

Robbins wasn’t Miller’s only inspiration for lunging into the fitness business. “Jack LaLanne is my idol,” says Miller, “and before he died, I promised him I would carry on his life’s work.”

What Miller loves most about the fitness business is “the ability to make a positive contribution to people’s lives, often in very dramatic ways. Power Fitness is a warm place that cares about your results and wants you to come use the facility and make positive improvements in your life. This increases our energy here as well.”

Miller does not necessarily subscribe to all the latest and greatest fitness fads. “No need to reinvent the wheel,” he says. “Results always come down to the basics and fundamentals and following through.”

In fact, Miller says, “The most important piece of equipment at Power Fitness is called ‘inspiration,’ and it’s a powerful one. It can change your life and the lives of those around you.”

 

It’s hard not to be inspired at Power Fitness with more than 400 inspirational quotes lining the walls and equipment. “We have quotes everywhere,” he says. “In fact, we have more quotes than any other gym anywhere in the world,” says Miller. “Sometimes people come in just to read the positive quotes on the walls, floors, ceiling and equipment. It’s funny, but I love it, it makes me feel like all the positive energy is getting out there in the community and our world.”

Meet Our Neighbor - "Jack's Shack" in Glen Head

Welcome to the “Meet Our Neighbor” series. Each month I will feature one of our fabulous North Shore business neighbors. This month, Jack’s Shack in Glen Head nourishes us with food for thought.

Almost 20 years ago, Jack’s Shack owner Willie Degel had a vision to open a steakhouse like no other. His restaurant would serve only the highest quality products and would provide uncompromising service.

Degel’s dream was first realized as a small store front restaurant fondly named Uncle Jacks Steakhouse in Bayside, Queens. He paid fanatical attention to detail and tweaked the menu until it was perfect. Service was elevated to an art form, with captains anticipating every need and whim to create an unprecedented dining experience. The restaurant was an immediate success with an A-list of customers including local sports stars, celebrities and politicians. Today, there are several Uncle Jack’s Steakhouses in New York City and Degel has received many awards and glowing reviews and is a star on the Food Network’s Restaurant Stakeout.

Residing in Old Brookville, Degel decided to open another restaurant concept and to open it locally with a focus on “helping his community grow by creating more jobs in the area,” says spokeswoman Navjit Sandhu, “and ultimately aiding in the growth of the town.”

Enter Jack’s Shack, Degel’s “baby” in Glen Head. Open just a little more than a year, the restaurant now employs 25 employees and serves Long Islanders “a healthy meal at an affordable price.”

Degel is very passionate about changing the way America eats and Jack’s Shack has given birth to a community emphasis on healthy, fresh food from identified, reputable sources in a setting that is primarily made from reclaimed or recycled ‘green’ building materials. “ This all natural, organic, casual eatery offers a healthier alternative to fast food, which appeals to the now more health conscious masses,” says Sandhu.

Wait, but who’s Jack? The restaurant is named after Degel’s late great-uncle Jack. In the late 1930’s, Degel’s uncle owned a restaurant in New York City, which was very popular with the locals. While growing up, Degel was regaled by tales of his Uncle and became fascinated by the man which got him to dreaming of one day owning a restaurant himself.

Jack's Shack's menu reaches across tastes and budgets with tacos, salads, sandwiches, soups and, the ever-popular Big Jack Burger, "a juicy cut of meat that has a lot of flavor and everone seems to love it."

 

We want our customers to know they “are in safe hands,” says Sandhu, “and, in a short amount of time, we’ve built a reputation for our honesty. A lot of times, restaurants use ‘mystery ingredients,’ but at the Shack, everything is out in the open. We only use the freshest fruits and veggies and only Grade A meat.”

The menu is always evolving 'to fit the needs of our customers," says Sandhu. "Chef Dan is very creative and always puts a fun spin on the food, expecially weekly specials."

Health-conscious customers line up for the salads, grilled chicken and fresh fruit and veggie smoothies. “Smoothies are especially popular with children,” says Sandhu. “It’s really great to see the children choose our smoothies over soda. We love that we are contributing to their good health.”

 

“We have all been blessed with this beautiful planet, it is our duty to keep it clean and preserved for future generations,” says Sandhu. “We now have resources to help our planet, and it is very important that we pitch in and do so.” Hopefully Degel’s enthusiasm spreads and “we all start becoming a little more careful,” she says.

It starts in the community. "The businesses around the Shack have been very friendly toward us," says Sandhu. "Gem Craft Boutique and Extravagant Realty have been so welcoming and more than helpful and we are lucky to have such caring neighbors. We look forward to a long lasting friendship with them."

Meet Our Neighbor - Kiddie City USA - Glen Head

I am excited to feature "Meet our Neighbor" series. Each month, I will spotlight one of our fabulous North Shore business neighbors. This month, we play around with Kiddie City USA.

The biggest compliment Kiddie City USA has received was, not from a parent, but from a child who asked if they could "move in and live at Kiddie City USA." Talk about a happy customer testimonial-it doesn't get much better than that!

Kiddie City USA doesn't kid around when it comes to pleasing children-not to mention parents. The Glen Head-based party place offers a kid-friendly lineup of exciting classes, hosts the coolest birthday parties, offers everyday Open Play and, is even a drop-off (three hour max) center.

The popular play place is actually the brainchild of a bunch of parents who felt the need for a facility in Glen Head. They were tired of travelling to Great Neck, Plainview, Syosset and Melville to entertain their children. They felt the need was strong enough in Glen Head to serve the North Shore area and found their space at 262 Glen Head Road in Glen Head after the former Russian Community Center vacated their space in May. The partners are from all different backgrounds and all hail from the North Shore. They include an investment manager, an educator, an event producer and business owners. They all bring a special element to the table.

The inspiration for Kiddie City USA began in a basement. Grandparents of one of the owners transformed their basement into a huge playroom for their grandchildren. Kiddie City USA came to life in that basement. The Glen Head facility is set up to reflect a mini-Manhattan. There are five out coves: a gourmet market/restaurant, a construction zone filled with cars, trains, work tables and benches; a brownstone built to reflect a home with a slide that drops you off in the school (equipped with a chalk board and chalk spinner); and a boutique filled with tons of dress-up items. There is a stage set with a TV and camera to broadcast the children much like the Megatron in Times Square, and a park type-setting in the middle of the room. You'll also find a lunchroom for snacks and food with a vending machine, an arcade and a retail store.

Kiddie City USA also offers a babysitting/drop-off service. They simply ask that parents call ahead of time to make a reservation (516-399-2525). The babysitters are actually part of their staff and are a local group of girls who come highly recommended. There is a maximum of 3 hours for this type of service; still plenty of time to run some errands, enjoy a meal and movie, or just relax! It beats a trip to the grocery store with meltdowns for sure.

Open Play time is a Godsend for parents who have active kids! "Come play in our city where it's safe to cross the street!" is their motto. They host children from six months to five years-old during school hours and have after school hours for kids up to 10 years old. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. These hours are subject to change so they ask that you check the website daily for hours.

Kiddie City USA has hosted milestone parties for kids celebrating their first birthday up to the big 13. They have quite a number of different themes, including arts and crafts parties, dance parties and, for the girls, spa and dress-up parties, and fairy and princess parties. The boys love pirate and Superhero-themed parties, and Angry Birds and Legos are also a big hit! The zaniest birthday party request was for a sleepover party.

Kiddie City USA is also a cool place to shop for kid's gifts. They have a great retail store filled with toys and clothes, jewelry and hair accessories and much more. Featured brands include Melissa and Doug, Zadeh Toy Imports, Bling it on Baby, Fish Face, Fiore Collections, Jamm Couture and Melina's Bowtique. They are constantly looking for fun, new items. The biggest seller? Piggy banks that are shaped like cars, cupcakes, and other fun designs. The retail store offers Open Play Passes (10 Open Plays plus one free for $100 as opposed to the $12 visit price) and gift certificates of any denomination.

Kiddie City USA is always on the hunt for new, exciting shop items and is also constantly adding new classes, hours and party themes. They are currently accepting enrollments for Spring 2013 classes (check the website for details.) They are open to ideas and new options that parents would like to help make their lives easier and welcome ideas, suggestions and criticism.

Kiddie City is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm (open on Sundays only for private parties and events.) Kiddie City USA is located at 262 Glen Head Road; 516-399-2525, www.kiddiecityusa.com.

* Prices subject to change

"Meet Our Neighbor" Healing Arts Massage Therapy

I am excited to introduce my new "Meet Our Neighbor" series. Each month I will feature one of our fabulous North Shore business neighbors. Please meet Anne Marie Giambrone, the truly hands-on owner of Healing Arts Massage Therapy.

“When I put my hands on a client, amazing healing happens,” says Anne Marie Giambrone owner, Healing Arts Massage Therapy in Glen Head. “Everyone’s needs are different and many people don’t know what they need. All they know is they are stressed and hurting.”

In business for 27 years (16 in the current Glen Head location,) Healing Arts works with “all kinds of people, young, old, children, athletes, injured to very ill,” says Giambrone.

“My work is my calling and not everyone can say that,” explains Giambrone. “I do feel that people get that immediately from me. I have a way with people, I am very intuitive. I use my kind heart and intention to help.” So much so that she’s gotten four marriage proposals.

Healing Arts has recently expanded and transformed into a healing center with “some incredible therapists in the holistic field,” says Giambrone. “It is very exciting.” The healing center also offers home services.

Giambrone has a background in dance which sashayed into extensive training in bodywork, healing and spiritual intuitive studies. She studied at the Swedish Institute in Manhattan and is a NYS Licensed, Certified and Registered Massage Therapist, Certified Reflexologist and AMTA Certified Sports Massage Therapist.

Interest in massage therapy followed a surgical procedure Giambrone underwent when she was 18 years old “that stimulated an interest in anatomy.” At the time, she was working in the restaurant business and had sought dance again to help with her recovery. At the prodding of a restaurant co-worker, who was a big fan of massage therapy, Giambrone decided to finally explore massage therapy as a profession. “I would work on his neck and he would tell me I was a natural and had good hands,” she said. Two years later, she decided to go to school and try out the field. “I felt massage therapy was a good way to stay connected to dancers and athletes.”

The healing industry has become flooded, Giambrone says, and the key to finding a good therapist is “connecting with those therapists that contain that extra special something, connecting body, mind and soul.”

As for staying afloat in a competitive industry, Giambrone is a believer in the power of networking. “I love networking, so I am always happy to spread the word and refer when needed. I have a network of businesses who refer me. The good energy I put out has brought incredible people into my life. It’s amazing and I am so thankful.”

“The biggest challenge right now is the economy,” she says. “There is stress everywhere you turn, which is why there is a need for healing nurturing and relaxation.” It’s not surprising then, that one of Giambrone’s biggest treatment requests is for “less stress.” One client even requested a four-hour session. Pain relief is also a sought-after treatment.

“There will always be a human need for compassionate, caring touch and the field of massage therapy will always be able to provide this service,” says Giambrone. “We are out here and love what we do.”

A native Long Islander, Giambrone grew up in New Hyde Park and has lived in Glen Head for the past17 years with her husband and two daughters.

Healing Arts Massage Therapy is located at 1009 Glen Cove Avenue, Suite 6, Glen Head. For more information or to make an appointment, call 516-674-0609 or visit healingartsmassageli.com.

 

 

Local Long Island Businesses - #shoplocal

Home Fries

One of the challenges of owning a café that fronts the Glen Head Train Station is that often, customers are in a big hurry. “It’s a challenge,” says owner Lisa Desanti who, along with her brother and co-owner, Charlie Jennette, opened Home Fries in May of this year. “Especially when commuters come in to place their order as the train is roaring down the track.”

But the sister-brother team is up to the challenge: “We always do the best we can to give the fastest service and I don’t believe anybody has missed a train yet—or, at least I hope not.”

The tiny café serves breakfast and lunch, Monday through Friday from 7 am to 2pm. “We have a small outdoor seating area, that is a great place to relax with friends or just have a quiet meal alone while you relax and unwind,” says Desanti.

While the Home Fries name suggests breakfast as a heavy hitter, the café’s menu is diverse and creative. Everything is prepared homemade “not something warmed up in the microwave,” says Desanti. “Our most popular breakfast item is, without a doubt, a scrambled egg, American cheese and bacon, on a crispy roll with a little salt, pepper and ketchup,” she says. But, there are also daily lunch specials: two of the most popular are Sloppy Joes Tuesdays and Crab Cake Fridays. And, the daily menu features additional specials including BBQ pulled pork, chicken parmigiana, and grilled chicken with melted cheese and fried peppers—to complement regular menu goodies such as omelets, waffles, burgers and smoothies. And, with the anticipation of fall and winter, Desanti says, “I am excited to bring in an array of soups, as well as hot oatmeal, for those cold wintery mornings.” Bonus: Customers can visit the website (see below) to print out a coupon for a 10 percent discount. And, senior citizens always receive 10 percent off.

Desanti has been it the food business since a young girl. Her uncle owned a well-known restaurant in Manhattan where her mother was the general manger, her aunt the weekend manager, another uncle the bartender and all of her cousins, as well as she and her brother worked throughout the years as wait staff, assistant managers and delivery people. “I remember those times as fun and educational,” says Desanti. “I learned what good, home-style food was all about.”

Desanti says that her brother has always dreamed of opening his own place. “We are both beyond thrilled that his dream has become a reality. My brother had been looking for a place for a long time that was in a good neighborhood, that was manageable in terms of size and that was financially doable. He spotted the café listed on Craigslist, spoke to the previous owner on the phone and he knew in his heart that this was the place for him, sight unseen.”

Desanti lives in the same Whitestone, Queens neighborhood where she grew up, as does Jennette. However, that may change. “I will say that not if, but when, I decide to move to Long Island, I will be moving to Glen Head. I really like it here and I cannot say enough about the business owners in the area, like Gem Craft Boutique and Extravagant Realty. We feel very blessed and thank them for all of their help and support.”

In addition to new menu items for the fall and winter, Desanti is considering a frequent coffee buyers’ club to serve the daily commuter crowd. The café may also extend hours to include Saturdays. “We feel that busy moms and dads and locals who are running around and taking their kids to sports events and running errands may just enjoy a cup of our great coffee and a bite to eat.”

Home Fries is located at 1 Station Plaza, 516-399-2255

Long Island Real Estate helping Fight Hunger

Extravagant Realty INVITES THE PUBLIC TO HELP FIGHT HUNGER Realtors Against Hunger (RAH) collecting donations of non perishable food items

Extravagant Realty is joining the Long Island Board of Realtors® (LIBOR) initiative, Realtors® Against Hunger, to fight hunger in our local communities. Realtors® Against Hunger (RAH) will be collecting donations of non perishable food items from September 1st – December 31st. During that time period, the public is encouraged to drop off canned and dry food donations at Extravagant Realty , 15 Glen Head Road, Glen Head NY 11545 between the hours of 9am to 5pm. This collection drive will support efforts to provide food to hundreds of local food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other programs that feed the hungry. LIBOR is working with several strategic partners to ensure proper distribution of food to outlets in Nassau, Suffolk and Queens Counties. “With more than 300,000 children and adults facing hunger or potential malnutrition in the region the Long Island Board of Realtors must respond to the needs of our communities, especially in these difficult times,” said Liz English, LIBOR President.

Realtors® Against Hunger (RAH) is part of the Long Island Board of Realtor®’s “We’re More Than Realtors®” initiative that supports numerous programs and charitable community organizations. A kick-off celebration for the campaign will be hosted at Bethpage Ballpark in Islip at the start of the Long Island Ducks baseball game.

Food donations can be brought to Realtor Service Centers in Jackson Heights, West Babylon, Riverhead and Woodbury as well as local Realtor offices such as Extravagant Realty . “We cannot stand by and watch our communities struggle. The impact of the economy and the escalating cost of fuel and other challenges is negatively impacting families throughout Long Island. Many families must now choose between paying for a tank of gas to get to work or feeding their family. We will work diligently to help our communities by filling these pantries and making an impact in the fight against hunger here on Long Island,” explained Michelle Magrino, Extravagant Realty .   For additional info call 516-232-8885.

Pop up Market comes to Long Island

Support local businesses and celebrate the diverse food and craft culture found on Long Island and across the region by taking a visit to Lange Eylandt Market located at The Milleridge Inn -585 North Broadway, Jericho, NY 11753.

I took a visit there on Sunday, September 30th and enjoy walking around the quiant village and visiting the vendors.  It is every Sunday until October 28th so don't delay!

For more details visit their website at http://www.langeeylandtmarket.com/

October - Meet Our Neighbor "Minuteman Press" in Glen Cove

Minuteman Press Glen Cove

I am excited to feature “Meet our Neighbor” series. Each month I spotlight one of our fabulous North Shore business neighbors. This month, we talk shop with Minuteman Press in Glen Cove.

 

In business for 31 years, Minuteman Press has seen the printing business evolve through the decades and has worked hard to keep up—and ahead—of the dizzying number of changes. “We have positioned ourselves to be on the cutting edge of the digital printing revolution,” says owner Alan Goldberg. “We can accept any kind of file and output it on the latest digital presses.”

An industrial arts major in college, Goldberg began his career as an industrial arts education teacher in New York City and a school administrator on Long Island. When he decided to embark on a new journey, “the printing business was a natural fit” he says.

The North Shore business community is tight and, Goldberg says, neighboring businesses have been helpful in helping Minuteman Press grow and continue to do so. “Keeping business local is key,” he says.

Goldberg knows a little something about keeping it local. He lived in Glen Cove for 35 years before relocating to Port Washington five years ago. And, while Minuteman Press has been in its current Glen Street location for five years, the business has been in Glen Cove for more than three decades.

Minuteman Press specializes in business communication services, as well as packaging and shipping. Among the services offered are: booklets, brochures, business cards, calendars, carbonless forms, digital copies, direct mail printing, catalogs, coupons, flyers, invitations, labels, holiday cards, postcards, newsletters and menus.

Of course, with the Internet, there are many more opportunities for growth, as well as much more competition. Minuteman Press now has an online store “where anyone can design and order business cards, letterhead, envelopes and flyers online,” says Goldberg adding, “We also have a wonderfully designed website with a high SEO ranking.”

So, how do you stay competitive in an electronic age? “We will beat any price,” Goldberg insists.

Customer requests in the printing and copying business have also changed through the years, says Goldberg. The most popular request in year’s past? “Copies,” he says. And the most popular request today? “Business cards.” says Goldberg.

Of course, the company has also had their share of odd requests through the many years it has been in business. The oddest? “When Minuteman ran a promotion that featured a clock as a promotional item, one customer requested a psychic reading instead of the clock,” he says.

So, what does the future hold for the printing and copying industry and Minuteman Press? “The trend is toward digital printing and getting away from offset printing on a printing press, a trend that will increase in the years ahead as newer technology develops” says Goldberg.

And, who knows, maybe a psychic reading promotion.

Minuteman Press is located at 63 ½ Glen Street, Glen Cove. Contact them at 516-676-7718, mmpgc@aol.com, minutemanglencove.com

 

 

Businesses on Long Island - "Meet our Neighbor" A+ Graphics & Signs

We will have a monthly story series now called "Meet Our Neighbor" which is an introduction of Business in the local area where I operate my two family businesses with my husband Richard, "Gem Craft Boutique"  http://www.gemcraftboutique.com/ & "Extravagant Realty" www.ExtravagantRealty.com located in Glen Head, NY

"Meet Our Neighbor"

A+ Graphics & Signs of Glen Head has been around the block. The Railroad Avenue graphics and sign company, in business for 14 years, is owned by Bill Manfredonia, who lives locally with his family less than a mile from his popular shop and showroom. Manfredonia is also a Board of Directors Member for the Glen Head/Glenwood Business Association.

           

Bill has an impressive background in engineering which parlayed beautifully into the sign industry. “I started as an electro-mechanical engineer but always had a passion for art,” says Bill. “The sign industry is one of the few places you can use both skills.”

Like many businesses—in Glen Head, regionally and nationally—the sign industry has changed over the last decade and a half. How so? In a word: Speed. “People want everything ASAP,” says Bill.  Fortunately, A+ Graphics & Signs has evolved with the changing times by specializing in digital printing, the biggest trend in the industry right now. “With digital printing, we can meet the demand for speedy service most of the time,” says Bill. “We digitally produce large format (54 inch) 4-color printing on banners, decals, vehicles, windows, magnets and more.”

Still, traditional types of printing continue to dictate the majority of his business. “Before digital, our biggest request was carved gold leaf signs, which still accounts for 60 percent of our business,” says Bill.

The business climate, of course, continues to evolve. In a word: Internet. “People shop on the Internet for signs but are rarely happy because they don’t get the one-on-one attention that we pride ourselves on at A+ Graphics and Signs,” Bill explains. “We work with our clients through every stage of the process, from logo design to installation.” Another bonus to working with A+ Graphics: an extensive showroom with lots of samples and an experienced staff with diverse backgrounds in art and advertising.

In a tight-knit business community like Glen Head, it helps that neighboring businesses have each other’s backs. “The more businesses we bring to the community the more potential customers we all have,” says Bill. “The best help we receive is local word of mouth recommendations and grassroots advertising.”

 “It was so helpful working with A+ signs when opening our two new businesses in Glen Head [Gem Craft Boutique and Extravagant Realty] in the span of a month,” says Deborah Orgel-Gordon, owner of Gem Craft. “A+ was one-stop shopping for our logo designs and signs. They even provided graphic design for our business cards. The staff was easy to work with and gave us much-appreciated creative feedback during a very hectic time.”

Says Bill of A+: “The folks at Gem Craft and Extravagant are not only operating businesses in the area but have quickly become contributing members of our community.”

And, that’s a good sign.

You can reach A+ Graphics & Signs, Inc. at 516-676-5683 or at their website, www.signs11545.com. Or, stop in and check out the showroom at 4 Railroad Avenue in Glen Head.

“Fill-a-Backpack” Drive - Glen Cove YOUTH Bureau

“Fill-a-Backpack” Drive

Let’s Help All Our School Children Start Off

On the Right Foot in September!

Each year, the Glen Cove Youth Bureau works with Nassau local citizens, businesses and organizations to provide back to school supplies to disadvantaged youth in the Glen Cove vicinity.  The supplies are presented, along with a backpack or master note book, to children who otherwise would not have the supplies they need to succeed in their studies.    Given the economy, the need this year is more than ever. 

Last year, over 100 children in grades K – 12 received back to school supplies from this program.  We are hoping to be able to assist as many, if not more students this year. 

Below is a list of some of the supplies that Glen Cove students will need for the upcoming school year:

♦     2” nylon, zippered, 3-ring binders               ♦     3”x5” index cards

♦     Back packs (no wheels)                            ♦     Folders

♦    Thin and thick washable markers               ♦     Section dividers for each subject   

♦     #2 pencils                                                 ♦     Plastic page protectors

♦     Erasable and regular pens                        ♦     Glue sticks

♦     Colored pencils                                         ♦     Scissors (suitable for Grade 4 and up)

♦     Highlighters                                                          ♦     Rulers

♦     Box of 24 Crayola crayons                        ♦     Portable three-hole punch

                      ♦     Zippered pencil case with 3 holes              ♦     Scientific calculators

♦     Small pencil sharpener                              ♦     Tissues

♦     Loose-leaf paper                                       ♦     Baby wipes

♦     Spiral note books                                      ♦     Hand sanitizer

♦     Post-its                                                    ♦     Quart & Gallon size Ziploc bags                             

Please drop off your donations at one of the locations listed below.  We will be collecting items through August 24.

♦ Glen Cove Youth Bureau – 128B Glen Street (behind 126 Glen Street)

♦ Glen Cove City Hall – Clerk’s Office (3^rd Floor)

♦ Glen Cove Library – Near magazine reading room

Monetary donations are also gratefully accepted.  Please make checks payable to Friends of the Glen Cove Youth Board and mail to Glen Cove Youth Bureau, 128B Glen Street, Glen Cove, NY  11542. 

For more information, please contact:

Cindy Rogers ♦ Glen Cove Youth Bureau ♦ 671-4600