Friday, 17 February 2012 00:00

 Legislators Discuss Public Safety Issues

An overflow audience packed into the Nassau County Legislative chambers on Monday, Feb.13 as that body held a public hearing on a proposal to close four police precincts in the county and transform them into community policing centers.

The hearing focused on public safety issues. It featured a long presentation by Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Dale who maintained that the plan would not compromise public safety, while noting that certain usages of advanced technologies have helped to reduce crime in the county.

Dale said the consolidation would result in a “more effective and efficient” police department, while also addressing the county’s budget situation. The precincts in question are the First, Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Precincts.

Friday, 17 February 2012 00:00

Alex Alazraki and His Triumph over Disability  

Landmark for Abilities!, the Albertson-based school that serves the disabled, has been, from its beginnings in 1952, blessed with many devoted employees. But few stand out with as much prominence as Alex Alazraki.

Alex recently celebrated his 93rd birthday and was feted with a loving ceremony by staff and students. In fact, the history of Abilities! and much of Alex’s adult life are one and the same.

Alex is one of Abilties! first employees. Born without fully formed arms or legs, he began working for Abilities! in 1952 when the organization began in a garage in West Hempstead. For the next 60 years, he has continued that same loyal service.

Alazraki, a father of three, grandfather of three and great grandfather of one, was born in Manhattan in 1919. At an early age, his family moved to Coney Island, a much tougher neighborhood. There, Alazraki was forced to prove his independence and stand up for his rights.

Friday, 17 February 2012 00:00

New York Giants finish magical season with Super Bowl XVLI parade in the City that Never Sleeps

The streets were trembling, the buildings were shaking and the confetti was falling by the truck-full in the Canyon of Heroes on Tuesday, Feb. 7 as New York City said thanks to its beloved Big Blue.

The New York Giants celebrated the 21-17 Super Bowl XVLI (46) victory over the New England Patriots in style with a ticker-tape parade and estimated attendance of one million screaming onlookers. Fans laughed, cheered, even cried as their favorite team passed by on what could be magically mistaken as chariots of the football gods.

An estimated 40 tons of confetti showered the “G-MEN.” Fans barricaded on the sidewalks took to climbing streetlights, signs and building storefronts to could catch a glimpse of the team.

Friday, 17 February 2012 00:00

The day features a 3-on-3 basketball tournament in boys, girls, and adult divisions. There will be raffles, such special events as a free throw contest and half court shot, plus refreshments.

Proceeds will benefit Ascent, a private, nonprofit school for children diagnosed with special needs.