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Hillcrest of Floral Park project secures financing

By
Ben Fiebert
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Pictured from left to right is Adam Nendza, senior VP commercial lending First Central Savings Bank; Constantine 'Dean' Hatzidakis and Michael Hatzidakis at 41-61 Covert Avenue, ‘The Hillcrest of Floral Park.' (Photo courtesy of First Central Savings Bank)

First Central Savings Bank is funding a new mixed-use development that aims to revitalize Floral Park with market-rate housing and retail spaces.

The construction project, which is being worked on by Hillcrest of Floral Park LLC, will introduce a 12-unit mixed-use building incorporating 6,500 square feet of premium retail space alongside market-rate apartments. It is poised to uplift the local economy and community appeal significantly.

Ten residential units will be on the second floor of the 11,300-square-foot building. Eight of the units will have one bedroom and two of the units will have two bedrooms.

Dean Hatzidakis and Michael Hatzidakis have successfully partnered with First Central Savings Bank to kick-start the development at 41-61 Covert Avenue.

“Our commitment to fostering local community development is reflected in our support for
transformative projects like The Hillcrest of Floral Park. As a local community bank, we are
committed to commercial real estate developments that enhance the communities we serve,” Joseph Pistilli, chairman of First Central Savings Bank, said in a press release. “We are excited to play a role in this development that promises a brighter future for all.”

Paul Hagan, president of First Central Savings Bank, said this development is more than just bricks and mortar. He said it’s a promise to the community of Floral Park and other local communities of FCSB’s commitment to enhancing their quality of life and enriching local communities with their community banking business model.

“We are beyond excited to see our ‘Hillcrest of Floral Park’ project moving forward with vital support and financing from First Central Savings Bank,” the Hatzidakis family said. “This development is not just a milestone for us as local developers, but represents a beacon of progress for the Floral Park community. With every step, from financing to breaking ground, we are seeing our vision come to life for revitalizing this valuable property. We are very thankful to work with local partners like First Central Savings Bank who contribute to the local economy and enhance the lives of those who call Floral Park home.”

This project transforms the property located at 41-61 Covert Ave. into a state-of-the-art development following a devastating fire on Sept. 27, 2020.

In 2020, Floral Park police responded to reports of a building fire at the Park Place Bar and Grill at 41 Covert Ave.

When they arrived at the scene, officers saw fire and smoke pouring from the building that extended to at least 11 other adjacent storefronts.

Firefighters from the Floral Park Fire Department, along with the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department, Great Neck Vigilant Fire Company, the New Hyde Park Fire Department and almost 20 others, were represented at the scene throughout the day.

Nassau County Assistant Chief Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro said at the time it took firefighters more than four hours to control the fire.

Six businesses sustained major damage or were destroyed, while four others were damaged by smoke. A private residence also had smoke damage, officials said.

Neighboring stores to Park Place affected by the fire included Villager’s Perk, Shin’s Tae Kwon Do, Luna Eyelash, Capo Ristorante, Covert Nail & Spa, Covert Barber Shop, Original V.I. Pizza, Covert Optical and K. Hunter Boutique.

The fire catalyzed the vision for renewal on parts of Covert Avenue.

“As previously reported, the owner of the Covert Avenue fire property, The Hillcrest of Floral Park LLC, received the Nassau County approvals required in order for the Village to issue the building permits,” Kevin Fitzgerald, mayor of Floral Park, said in a message in April. “We look forward to this project getting underway and, most importantly, we look forward to its completion, which will be a positive addition to the Village for years to come.”

State invests $120M in Northwell’s Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub

By
Cameryn Oakes
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Northwell Health's plan for a new Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub (Photo courtesy of the Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul)

New York State is investing $120 million in the New York BioGenesis Park, a $430 million Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub coming to Northwell Health’s Lake Success campus, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced earlier this week.

“With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation,” Hochul said. “We’re not just advancing medical science; we’re creating a powerhouse that will drive our economy, generate thousands of high-skilled jobs, and bring hope to millions facing life-threatening diseases. This investment reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare and ensuring that the next medical breakthrough happens right here in New York.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the state’s $120 million investment into the hub (Photo by Karen Rubin)

Cell and gene therapies are treatments that target the source of diseases through a patient’s cells or genes. This research could progress treatments for diseases previously thought to be incurable, like cancers, genetic disorders and autoimmune diseases.

Treatments developed could also bolster efficacy and provide longer-lasting options while diminishing side effects, providing other options for patients who have tried all those already available.

“We are committed to supporting New York State in establishing this innovative cell and gene therapy hub on Long Island,” Northwell Health President and CEO Michael J. Dowling said. “The facility will be a game changer for physician-scientists, researchers and innovative companies, some of which are already working together in the region to advance novel biomedical treatments in the fight against cancer and other devastating diseases, offering new hope for our diverse communities across the state.”

The full-service, 700,000-square-foot campus aims to not only advance therapeutic treatments but also bolster commercialization of them. It would encompass public engagement, research, manufacturing and collaboration.

The hub will be developed through phases.

Phase One includes establishing the 331,000-square-foot facility at Northwell Health’s Lake Success campus. This includes the first Cell and Gene Therapy Tower and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations.

Also included in the plan is an incubator with the resources necessary to collaborate with cell and gene therapy companies and aid their growth.

The incubator was funded in part by a $50 million investment from the Empire State Development.

“New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and New York State’s position as a global leader in biotechnology advancements,” Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said. “This project not only promises to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs but also establishes a world-class ecosystem for cell and gene therapy innovation. By leveraging Long Island’s exceptional talent pool and research institutions, we’re laying the foundation for breakthroughs that will save lives and drive economic growth for decades to come.”

The first phase is projecting to provide about 830 full-time union construction jobs and another 700 jobs involved in the cell and gene therapy development.

A rendering of the inside of the Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub (Photo courtesy of the Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul)

Phase two of the project would expand the lab and office space further.

The New York BioGenesis Park will collaborate with the Empire State Cellular Therapy Consortium and world-class institutions like Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes, Northwell Health, Roswell Park, Stony Brook University, Weill Cornell, Columbia University and others around the state. They describe this as a “ecosystem” for cutting edge research.

The hub is being established by The Albanese Organization Inc., a Long Island-based developer that was chosen by the state. It will design, finance, build, market, tenant and operate the Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Center.

“The Albanese Organization and our development team are honored and excited to be designated by Empire State Development to enter into this public-private partnership that will realize the Governor’s vision to create a ‘Hub of the Future’ for Cell and Gene Therapy in Lake Success, Long Island,” Albanese Organization Chairman Russell Albanese said.

“This transformative development will serve as a significant catalyst for advancing cell therapy research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across the State that will lead to increased access to transformative, life-saving treatments. The Hub will also further amplify and expand the economic engine that is the life sciences industry within New York State, and specifically Long Island.”

Herricks faithful share celebratory spirit at homecoming

By
The Island 360
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Herricks Highlanders make a grand entrance at homecoming. (Photo courtesy of Herricks Public Schools)

On Oct. 18, Herricks Highlanders fans filled the high school stadium to capacity and geared up for a high-energy homecoming celebration.

The crowd roared as the parade, led by the band and cheer teams, marched by with hundreds of waving students, parents and teachers representing each of the district’s five schools, as well as administrators, board of education members and local dignitaries. As is Herricks tradition, the parade concluded with students from each of the high school classes showing off their own unique style and displaying custom banners designed a contest to show who has the most spirit.

As the festivities continued, honored guests were announced and senior football and cheer students were joined by their parents and introduced as they walked across the field basking in the spotlight of their final homecoming. The presentations were capped off with a performance by the Herricks Dance Theatre Club and the announcement of the Highlander 11, an honor that recognizes members of the senior class who are actively involved in the school community and nominated by peers.

As kickoff approached, the attendees took to their feet for the Star-Spangled Banner and cheered as the Herricks Highlanders took to the field with leaps and bounds and prepared to take on the Hicksville Comets.

The Highlanders were dominant throughout the game and the fans were with them all the way, including filling the air with spirited chants and clouds of colorful confetti. During halftime, the crowd was entertained with performances by the Herricks Pep Band and Herricks varsity cheerleaders.

The end of the game was just as fulfilling as the rest of the celebration with the Highlanders scoring a 55-33 win.

Mineola’s Café at Synergy program offers skills and certifications

By
The Island 360
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Mineola High School learners in the “Business to Barista” program gain real-world experience, earn valuable, industry-recognized business certifications and get paid while they learn. (Photo courtesy of Mineola School District)

Mineola High School learners in the “Business to Barista” program gain real-world experience, earn valuable, industry-recognized business certifications, and get paid while they learn.

Café at Synergy is located at the district’s Synergy building where students, faculty and community members can enjoy coffee, snacks and other beverages before, between and after classes. The café also has breakfast and lunch grab and go options. The café features plenty of seating for reading, studying or quietly collaborating on projects while enjoying their beverage of choice.

The Café is staffed by seniors who, in addition to gaining work experience, are also taking asynchronous business courses that directly relate to the skill sets they are employing as part of the Café @ Synergy team. As a bonus for their future, each of these courses ends in a professional certification including Communication Skills for Business Certification, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Certification and Intuit QuickBooks Online Certified User Certification.

The learners are also deeply engaged in the Café @ Synergy business model, participating in brainstorming sessions on improving the customer experience. They are working with the innovative Intuit Design for Delight program which delves into customer engagement, loyalty and satisfaction and design thinking skills that will greatly benefit them in the future. Students in the program also have the option to complete the Intuit Design for Delight Innovator Certification which helps promote creativity, critical thinking, complex problem solving and collaboration.

“Mineola’s Cafe at Synergy program is a true example of experiential learning in
action,” Nicole Culella, district coordinator of Career, Community and STEAM Opportunities, said in a press release. “It allows students to learn essential business concepts and principles while being fully engaged in the day-to-day operations of a student-run business open to the public.”

Café @ Synergy is open to the public on school days only from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Manhasset test scores well above Nassau average

By
Steven Blank Publisher
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Manhasset Board of Education (Photo by Luke Feeney)

By Luke Feeney

The Manhasset Board of Education was shown a presentation and analysis of the strong test scores of students in the district during their Oct. 26 meeting.

The presentation was given by a team of administrators, led by Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Rebecca Chowske. The team began the presentation emphasizing their belief in the importance of data collection in a holistic approach towards educating students.

“Data provides us with our roadmap for our district goals and priorities, it helps us to create a strong instructional program for our students,” Jessica Zimmer, the principal of Shelter Rock Elementary, told the board. “All of this information, plus anecdotal information from teachers, has been informing our decisions on the students.” she added.

According to the most recent data, Manhasset students had scores well above the average Nassau County student across all grade levels in these examinations, with students averaging over 20% higher than the district average. “The data shows that we are outperforming Nassau County by a substantial margin for the past several years and continue to do well,” Brendan McGowan, district director of ELA, Reading, and Libraries said to the board.

After Gordon spoke Lauren Tallarine, the district’s director of Mathematics and Business, shared students’ scores over the past several years and similarly to English, Manhasset students were far above the Nassau County average for math as well. “Similarly to the ELA data, Manhasset students are performing well above the Nassau County proficiency rates,” Tallarine said.

She also pointed to some of the measuring concepts that the district uses on particular issues and questions. “It reminds us that when students get a question wrong, they are not all getting them wrong for the same reason.” she added.

After analyzing student scores, Ryan Aliperti, the district Administrator for Assessment and Data Analysis, highlighted the Student Data System. The system holds all the test scores of every single student enrolled in a Manhasset school, from kindergarten all the way to senior year. “Everything from kindergarten screening, all the way to AP exams, and everything in between is in this data system,” Aliperti said.

Chomske returned to the podium to deliver the next steps the group plans on taking.

“Our next step includes reviewing our current systems to see that we’re capturing the full picture of students.” Chomske said. She said the group was also reviewing its student intervention response as well as meeting with citizen advisory groups. “We are working to serve our students better,” Chomske added.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Gaurav Passi updated the board on district matters prior to the presentation. Passi updated the board on construction projects throughout the district as well as informed them about regionalization, which is a new initiative announced by the New York Education Department with the goal to have a “strategic approach to addressing educational disparities, fiscal constraints and operational inefficiencies across school districts in New York State,” according to department documents.

In addition, before the meeting, 16 teachers from the district received tenure. At a recognition event in the Black Box Theater in Manhasset Secondary School friends, family and colleagues shared stories about the tenure recipient. The next meeting of the Board of Education is Nov. 7.

 

Students explore the future of technology through AI prompt generation

By
The Island 360
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North Side School fourth graders generated creative AI prompts to produce images as part of a hands-on digital design project. (Photo courtesy of the East Williston School District)

North Side School’s fourth graders at the East Williston School District have been actively engaging in discussions about the role of artificial intelligence in the workplace and its growing impact on society.

As part of a hands-on digital design project led by teacher Michael Mazur, the students generated creative AI prompts to produce images, such as “space pizza,” a “neon ghost” and a “banana scoring a touchdown.”

“After multiple discussions on the importance of crafting detailed and concise prompts when asking AI to produce a product or complete a task, students had the opportunity to practice their prompting skills using various experiences from Google’s experiments,” Mazur said in a press release.

Building on their prompt-writing skills, the students used Adobe’s AI image generator to design illustrations for some of their favorite picture books. Through these activities, they learned to specify the medium, subjects and context when asking AI to generate specific images, discovering how precise language opens a world of digital art creativity — limited only by their imagination.

The immersive lesson empowered students with the essential tools for the future, such as creating structured prompts and fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills and digital literacy. By engaging with real-world AI applications, the students embraced an iterative learning process that nurtured independence, resilience and creativity.

Throughout the project, the students evaluated and improved their work, embodying a growth mindset by viewing challenges as opportunities for development. Additionally, they collaborated with peers to deepen their understanding and enhance their communication skills, promoting a strong sense of community within the classroom.

Mazur’s integration of real-world AI applications prepares North Side School students to become future-ready, tech-savvy individuals. As they develop essential digital literacy skills, the students can confidently navigate and contribute to an increasingly technology-driven world.

Willets Road School sixth graders serve up creativity with cake challenge

By
The Island 360
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During their art classes, sixth graders at Willets Road School crafted 3D slices of layered cake. (Photo courtesy of the East Williston School District)

In a fun and hands-on project, sixth graders at Willets Road School, part of the East
Williston School District, crafted 3D slices of layered cake during their art classes.

Under the guidance of art teacher Melinda Gomez, the students faced a unique challenge to create a realistic cake using only colored paper, scissors, glue, tape and a pencil. The students also had to decide the cake’s flavor, design decorations, pick an occasion and create a custom place design to display their slice. Working in small groups, the sixth graders collaborated to share ideas, assign roles and problem-solve together, building essential life skills like teamwork, resourcefulness and time management.

With limited materials, the sixth graders transformed ordinary materials into intricate and imaginative cake designs. After completing their unique cakes, the students celebrated their efforts by displaying their paper-based creations, holding a fun awards ceremony to recognize standout designs in categories like best decoration, most creative theme and best construction.

The 3D cake challenge nurtured the students’ artistic skills and helped develop their confidence, communication abilities and appreciation for collaboration. By engaging in a creative, hands-on experience, the students learned how working together can bring ideas to life, demonstrating how projects that integrate creativity and teamwork enhance learning beyond the classroom.

Willets Road School unites in stand for kindness and inclusion

By
The Island 360
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Willets Road School students and staff joined together for an inspiring display of solidarity by participating in Unity Day. (Photo courtesy of the East Williston School District)

The students of Willets Road School, part of the East Williston School District, joined together for an inspiring display of solidarity by participating in Unity Day, an annual event dedicated to promoting kindness, acceptance and inclusion, on Oct. 16.

Dressed in orange, a color symbolizing unity and hope, they declared a powerful message that bullying and discrimination have no place at their school.

Unity Day is part of a national initiative that encourages schools and communities to unite in creating environments where everyone feels welcomed, accepted and valued. The
event was a highlight of Bullying Prevention Month, a time when Willets Road School students participated in activities and discussions throughout October, focusing on the importance of treating others with empathy, respect and kindness.

Through thoughtful conversations and experiences, the students explored how their actions can make a difference – shaping a positive school community where diversity is celebrated. In addition, staff members have reinforced these lessons in classrooms, empowering students to practice acceptance and embrace diversity in their daily interactions.

Unity Day was a symbol of the school’s ongoing efforts to nurture a safe and inclusive environment at Willets Road School. It also reinforced the school’s dedication to social and emotional learning, guiding students to develop empathy, building positive relationships and strengthening the sense of community. Willets Road School takes pride in its dedication and its students and staff’s commitment to embracing kindness, acceptance and inclusion.

The Wheatley School students earn awards in TikTok Challenge

By
The Island 360
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Pictured from left, the Wheatley School sophomore Olivia Picciuca and junior Olivia DelBroccolo earned awards in the American Association of Teachers of Italian’s TikTok challenge. (Photo courtesy of the East Williston Union Free School District)

Two students from The Wheatley School at the East Williston School District earned awards in the American Association of Teachers of Italian’s TikTok challenge.

The students submitted a short video, depicting their summer, and followed a series of criteria. Their videos were rated on creativity, originality, music, video elaboration and the use of Italian and cultural elements.

Sophomore Olivia Picciuca earned an award for most elaborate video, and junior Olivia DelBroccolo earned an award for most unpredictable video.

Their Italian teacher Susan Vasselman expressed how proud she was of her students for challenging themselves, embracing the Italian language and culture through the competition and using social media in a positive way that contributed to their linguistic and cultural competence.

This is the second consecutive year that students in Vasselman’s Italian program have won awards for their TikTok Challenge videos.

Mineola learners walk for a cure for type 1 diabetes

By
The Island 360
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Meadow Drive School learners and teachers stepped up to support their classmate Fiona McHugh and her fundraising efforts to find a cure for type 1 diabetes. (Photo courtesy of Mineola School District)

Meadow Drive School learners and teachers stepped up to support their classmate Fiona McHugh and her fundraising efforts to find a cure for type 1 diabetes.

On Oct. 10, the Meadow Drive School community joined together in love and solidarity for an in-school T1D walk-a-thon. The hallways were a sea of blue — McHugh’s favorite color — as the students and faculty walked around the school led by McHugh and her team dubbed “Fiona’s one-derful Warriors.”

For learners and teachers at Meadow Drive, finding a cure for type 1 diabetes is a mission they take very personally. Since 2020, when McHugh started pre-K and informed the school of her T1D diagnosis, the school community has been unified in its support for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and for McHugh and other learners battling the disease.

“We are always happy to empower our learners to see how they can make a
difference in the world,” Jennie Fahey, principal of Meadow Drive School, said. “Fiona is not only making an impact toward finding a cure, but she is also a role model for her peers who may seek to make a difference in their own way.”

Now in second grade, this is McHugh’s final year at Meadow Drive, making this walk extra special for the entire Meadow family.

The district is proud of McHugh and all her fellow learners, friends and teachers that work together to lift each other up and put their energy and passion behind causes that will make the world a better place.

Carle Place firefighters teach fire safety at Cherry Lane

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The Island 360
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A student at Cherry Lane Elementary School sprayed a hose with the assistance of a firefighter. (Photo courtesy of the Carle Place School District)

Carle Place Fire Department members visited Cherry Lane Elementary School to provide the students with an educational experience.

The firefighters displayed their gear and tools, taught safety techniques and explained how to respond in case of an emergency. Students learned the step-by-step process of how firefighters quickly assemble their equipment after receiving an emergency call, and even got hands-on experience by spraying a hose from the fire truck. The day also included a mock fire emergency in a mobile smokehouse, where students practiced identifying alternate exit routes and even had the chance to climb out a window as part of the drill.

Students from Donna Gross and Lauri Lewitas’ second grade class learned about the critical role firefighters play in the community. Several students shared how in the future, they would like to be firefighters themselves.

In fact, this was the case for firefighter Charles Karen, who had Gross as his teacher while he was a student at Cherry Lane. Gross, who was thrilled to see him, shared that this was a wonderful “full circle moment,” as she introduced Charles to her current second grade class.

“It’s really important for the kids to see the firefighters dressed in their uniforms because sometimes they get scared and might want to hide,” Lewitas said.

By introducing students to members of the fire department — especially in their gear — they become comfortable with the firefighters, which is crucial in cases of emergency.

Lewitas also said that the children enjoy recognizing the firefighters and eagerly look forward to their visits every year.

Herricks students show appreciation for board of education

By
The Island 360
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The Herricks Board of Education was recognized by Herricks High School students for School Boards Recognition Week. (Photo courtesy of Herricks Public Schools)

The greatest gift for Herricks School District Board of Education trustees wasn’t something they could hold; it was hearing directly from students just how much their work makes a difference. In recognition of New York State School Boards Recognition Week, which runs from Oct. 14 to 18, four Herricks High School students were invited to present at the Oct. 10 board meeting.

Demetrious Georgedakis and Jose Franco spoke directly to the board about their experience at Herricks High School. They highlighted a warm and welcoming school environment, splendid teachers, a wide range of academic and extracurricular offerings and a new fitness center. Shristi Nigam, who appeared in a video, read three haiku poems about the six C’s of the Herricks Portrait of a Graduate – collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creative innovation, compassion and confidence. Constantine Chung, a Long Island Scholar-Artist, shared his appreciation for the music program with a moving performance on the cello.

High School Principal Joan Keegan said she chose students who embody the same traits as the board of education trustees: generous, kind, thoughtful and reflective.

“Our gift to you is that we hope you see yourselves in them,” Keegan said.

Senior Athul Santhosh, the student representative on the board of education, expressed his gratitude for all the opportunities he has been given over the last 13 years.

Superintendent Tony Sinanis thanked the board for allowing him to be part of the very special Herricks school community and noted that his work with the trustees extends well beyond their two meetings per month. Sinanis presented the board with a certificate of appreciation from U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi.

The 2024-25 Herricks Board of Education includes president Juleigh Chin, vice president Jim Gounaris and trustees Maria Bono, Shaheda Quraishi and Henry Zanetti.

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