Takin' It To The Streets

The Residents For A More Beautiful Port Washington celebrated their 43rd annual gala "Takin' It To The Streets" on March 27th at the Clubhouse at Harbor Links. A crowd of dedicated residents and elected officials turned out to support the efforts of the organization and also enjoy a memorable evening filled with delicious food, music, great raffle prizes and convivial company.

Curt Trinko, chairman of the executive board, provided an update about the group's future. "This event celebrates our new plans for cleaner sidewalks, outdoor dining, attractive lighting, streetscape entertainment, late night shopping and design elements that enhance Port's seaside charm." Trinko also said "The momentum will continue with the Resident's Spring program, which is packed with vibrant Main Street events, spring clean ups of all our gardens, environmental workshops and the official launch of 'tree-1-1' and Clean Green Main Street 2011." 

A visual presentation created by Steven Krainin recapped the organization's innovative projects from the past year. 

The distinguished  honorees this year were Michelle Schimel, New York State Assemblywoman, and Frances B. Reid, Director of Environmental Planning for the Town of North Hempstead, who are dedicated to protecting the environment.  Schimel has been recognized as an environmental leader for her strong voting record in this area. Her most recent work focused on preserving open space, protecting Long Island's water resources and promoting the recycling of electronic waste products.

"I've traveled all over New York State and there are no groups as wonderful and effective as The Residents For A More Beautiful Port Washington," she said.

Under the leadership of Supervisor Jon Kaiman, Reid oversees TONH programs such as the School Recycling Partnership, The First Pharmaceutical Collection Event in Nassau County, The Port Washington Clean Green Zone and The First Residential & School Composting Cooperative on Long Island.

"This group was formed 43 years ago before environmentalism became chic. We have been at the forefront of the 'Green Movement' ever since," said co-president Dan Donatelli. The other co-president, Rick Krainin, added, "The Gala's theme of "Takin' it to the Streets" is one way that we are building awareness of our efforts to help revitalize Port Washington's commercial hub into a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented downtown."