Tag Archives: New York

Hewlett, New York, U.S. September 10, 2022. LINDA LOUIS communes with her painting 'Dream Voyage' (48"x48") during Reception for her solo show 'A Summer's Day' at the Hewlett Woodmere Public Library. Fifty three paintings on canvas and wood are on view from Sept. 2nd to Nov. 2nd. (© 2022 Ann Parry, annparry.com)

Linda Louis: A Summer’s Day

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
September 15, 2022

Linda Louis:  sitefacebook
Reception: 9/2 – 10/2/2022
Hewlett-Woodmere Library

Linda Louis’ luminous solo show
The expressive artistry of Linda Louis’ other-worldly paintings shines in her colorful solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at the Hewlett-Woodmere Library, from September 2 thru October 2, 2022.

my Photo Gallery – Linda Louis: A Summer’s Day
(Plus, click each photo below to see larger one.)

“Linda Louis

Hewlett, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 10, 2022. LINDA LOUIS gazes at ‘Symphony of the Sea’ (48″x48″), with ‘My Sanctuary’ behind her, during reception for her solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at the Hewlett-Woodmere Library. (© 2022 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Linda Louis – A Summer’s Day

“Linda Louis

Hewlett, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 10, 2022. L-R, DAVID, LINDA LOUIS, and fellow artist are reception for her solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at the Hewlett Woodmere Public Library. (© 2022 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Linda Louis – A Summer’s Day

“Linda Louis

Hewlett, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 10, 2022. Linda Louis’s Star Series, a collection of 20 small paintings, are on display at reception for her solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at the Hewlett-Woodmere Library. (© 2022 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Linda Louis – A Summer’s Day

“Linda Louis

Hewlett, N.Y. U.S. Sept. 10, 2022. LINDA LOUIS faces up to, L-R, ‘Dreaming in Color’ and ‘Happy Escape’ during reception for her solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at the Hewlett-Woodmere Library. (© 2022 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Linda Louis – A Summer’s Day

“Linda Louis

Hewlett, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 10, 2022. LINDA LOUIS and DAVID leave after reception for her solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at the Hewlett-Woodmere Library. (© 2022 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)


Feature Photo (at top of post): Hewlett, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 10, 2022. LINDA LOUIS communes with her painting ‘Dream Voyage’ during Reception for her solo show ‘A Summer’s Day’ at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library. (© 2022 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com).


Linda Louis A Summer’s Dream: my PHOTO GALLERY

site:  LindaLouisArt.com  

facebook: @lindastallonelouis

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Bellmore, New York, U.S. September 25, 2021. L-R, NYS Senator JOHN BROOKS and visitor BOB STUHMER, wearing a face mask because of COVID-19, chat at the senator's booth the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

Twice Around the Bellmore Family Street Festival

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
October 2, 2021

VIDEO  Click bottom right corner for Full Screen – Bellmore Family Street Festival, Sept. 25, 2021:

The first Saturday in autumn, August 25th, Bob and I visited the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival. The food, the smells, the crafts… were tantalizing, and the people were the highlight of the afternoon.

Bellmore, New York, U.S. September 25, 2021. Nassau County Executive LAURA CURRAN visits the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

Bellmore, NY, U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. Nassau County Executive LAURA CURRAN visits the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival. (© 2021 Ann Parry, annparry.com)

As we walked to the carnival rides at the opposite end of the festival, I ate grilled corn on the cob, chatted at various political booths, and browsed at countless crafts booths, including one where I bought a solar powered blue bird for my front garden. 

Bellmore, New York, U.S. September 25, 2021. At center, JASON ABELOVE, the Democratic candidate for Town of Hempstead Supervisor, visits the South Shore Women's Caucus booth at the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

Bellmore, NY, U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. At center, JASON ABELOVE, the Democratic candidate for Town of Hempstead Supervisor, visits the South Shore Women’s Caucus booth at the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

We were about to leave when we ran into my daughter Sue’s family, so the five of us headed off together towards the carnival rides and ices.

Bellmore, NY, U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. New York State Legislator STEVE RHOADS (R-19th District) speaks with a visitor at the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

Bellmore, NY, U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. NYS Legislator STEVE RHOADS (R-19th District) speaks with a visitor at the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

After the bonus hour or so of family fun at the festival, Bob and I decided, once again, to leave.

““Merrick,

Bellmore, New York, U.S. September 25, 2021. New York State Legislator TOM MCKEVITT (R-13th District) visits the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival. (© 2021 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Just before we turned off Bedford Ave to head to the car, DAN YNGSTROM — wearing his bright pink Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores VOLUNTEER shirt (as seen early in above video) — said a cheery hi.   

Bellmore, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. Musician at the New York Musician's Center (NYMC, 701 Bedford Ave) sings, while accompanying himself on electric guitar, during the 34th Annual Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.

Bellmore, N.Y., U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. Musician at the New York Musician’s Center (NYMC, 701 Bedford Ave) sings, while accompanying himself on electric guitar, during the 34th Annual Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.


FEATURE PHOTO (at top of post):  Bellmore, NY, U.S. Sept. 25, 2021. L-R, NYS Senator JOHN BROOKS and visitor BOB STUHMER, wearing a face mask because of COVID-19, chat at the senator’s booth at the 34th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival.


Bellmore Family Street Festival: my photo Gallery

Video:  vimeo.com/annparry/620478331

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Vacinate New York sign with arrow animated © 2021 Vacinate New York sign with arrow animated, © 2021 Ann Parry, FromLongIsland.com, Ann-Parry.com

After COVID-19 Vaccination, Bob Feels Fine

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
February 26, 2021

VIDEO: 3 Cheers for COVID-19 Vaccination – Bob Stuhmer gets his 2nd Covid-19 Vaccination, 2/20/2021, Nassau County, New York:

Last weekend, Bob and I had our second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine shots at a vaccination site in Nassau County.

Late January, when one of my daughters magically landed on an online vaccination sign-up page that listed available appointments and worked, she scheduled appointments for Bob and me.

There was no blood on Bob’s arm after the shot, so the medical student who administered the Pfizer vaccination said he didn’t need a bandage unless he wanted one. (He didn’t.)

•  SIDE EFFECTS for Bob?  He didn’t have any side effects after the first dose on January 30th, and didn’t have any after the second dose three weeks later.

•  SIDE EFFECTS for me?  Barely worth mentioning. For about a day after each vaccination, my arm felt a bit sore when I touched it. After the second shot, I felt slightly light-headed for a few minutes, which I suspect is because I didn’t eat anything between breakfast and my early afternoon appointment.

Long Island, New York, USA. February 20, 2021. Nurse from Stony Brook University administers 1st shot of COVID-19 Pfizer vaccinations to ANN PARRY, at Nassau County.

Long Island, New York, USA. February 20, 2021. Nurse from Stony Brook University prepares to administer 1st shot of COVID-19 Pfizer vaccination to ANN PARRY, at Nassau County.

#StopTheSpread   #covid   #coronavirus   #vaccination   #NewYorkTough


NewsdayCOVID-10 vaccines: How to book appointments on Long Island  Erin Serpico’s article has links & info covering Long island and NYC. Because it’s comprehensive, all in one place, and updated as new info becomes available, it’s a very helpful resource:  https://www.newsday.com/news/health/coronavirus/covid-vaccine-appointments-long-island-resources-1.50149215


Some useful info for scheduling COVID vaccinations:

NYS Vaccination Hotline:  1-833-NYS-4VAX (1-833-697-4829)

New York State:  https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/

Nassau County:  https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/vaccine

Suffolk County: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/


my Vimeo video site: vimeo.com/annparry

Bob’s illustration site: BobStuhmer.com

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Wantagh, New York, U.S. April 22, 2020. Two fishermen fish at Mill Pond Park as dusk approaches on Earth Day. (© 2020 Ann Parry, FromLongIsland.com)

Earth Day 2020: PAUSE & Webbed Feet

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
April 28, 2020

 How I spent Earth Day on Long Island

SLIDESHOW “Mill Pond Park, Earth Day 2020” with music
Click lower right corner of video to view full-screen:

Months ago, I ordered a box of 20 disposable N-95 masks. By the time they arrived, not long ago, many local first responders were short on Personal Protective Equipment and could use the masks more than I did.

After reading L.I. Herald reporter Andrew Garcia’s article on the Bellmore-Merrick EMS and how it needed PPE, I put on my makeshift face mask, grabbed the unopened box of N-95s, and drove to the not-for-profit’s nearby Bellmore HQ.

• EMT ALEX DOOLEY of Bellmore-Merrick EMS:

“Bellmore,

Bellmore, New York, U.S. April 22, 2020. EMT ALEX DOOLEY stands at entrance to Bellmore-Merrick EMS to accept PPE donation to squad. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

While dropping off the masks outside the EMS entrance door, I asked EMT ALEX DOOLEY what protective equipment donations the first responders particularly needed, other than masks, and she immediately said “gowns.”

Since dusk wasn’t far off when I left, I decided to capture Earth Day photos at a nearby South Shore park.

Normally I’d head west to Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve in Merrick, but it was closed because its sprawling trails and secluded areas weren’t social-distancing-friendly and Long Island was a major hot spot for the Covid-19 pandemic. So I instead headed east to Mill Pond Park in Wantagh.

The park borders Merrick Road, where I parked, joining two or three other cars already there, and adjusted my face mask after getting out of the car.

•  [digitally colored] Panorama of Mill Pond Park at dusk:

Wantagh, New York, U.S. April 22, 2020. Family feeds swan and geese at Mill Pond Park, as dusk approaches during Earth Day. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Wantagh, New York, U.S. April 22, 2020. Family feeds swan and geese at Mill Pond Park, as dusk approaches during Earth Day. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

My iPhone 11 Pro was the best and only camera I had with me. Its 2X optical zoom helped make it possible to capture photos I otherwise couldn’t have while Governor Cuomo’s executive order “New York State on PAUSE” is in effect, currently from March 22 to May 15, 2020.

New York State on PAUSE “NY State remains on PAUSE through May 15. All non-essential workers are directed to work from home, and everyone is required to wear a face covering and maintain a 6-foot distance from others in public”


FEATURE PHOTO at top of post: Wantagh, New York, U.S.  April 22, 2020. Two fishermen wearing waders fish at Mill Pond Park on Earth Day as dusk approaches.


Bellmore-Merrick EMS: Membership Inquiry Donate

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Mill Pond Park 2020 Earth Day:  my PHOTO GALLERY

VIDEOvimeo.com/annparry/millpondpark2020

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Signs of Support on Long Island during Covid-19 Pandemic

isFrom LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
April 7, 2020

Signarama owner Joey Cestare has Signs of Support

 2956 Merrick Rd, Bellmore, NY 11710 • directions  •  site

Merrick, NY, USA. April 5, 2020. JOEY CESTARE, owner of Signarama in Bellmore, holds rainbow HOPE sign he is giving for free to put in windows, during Coronavirus Pandemic, on Long Island. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Merrick, NY, USA. April 5, 2020. JOEY CESTARE, owner of Signarama in Bellmore, holds rainbow HOPE sign he is giving for free to put in windows, during Coaronavirus Pandemic, on Long Island. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

When I told my grandchildren their toys that carpeted the living room moved up to the “Tree House,” they quite liked that fanciful new name for the upstairs guest room.

And before long, its entrance sported a cheerful, personalized Tree House sign, thanks to Joey Cestare – the owner of Signarama in Bellmore, and the boyfriend of the Tree House tots’ Aunt Laurie.

And that wasn’t the first or last time I’ve been impressed with Joey’s craftsmanship and thoughtfulness.

Merrick, NY, USA. April 5, 2020. STRONG WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS! sign of hope is from Signarama in Bellmore, during Coronavirus Pandemic, on Long Island. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Merrick, NY, USA. April 5, 2020. ‘STRONG WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS!’ sign of hope is from Signarama in Bellmore, on front lawn during Coronavirus Pandemic, on Long Island. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

So when the nightmarish Covid-19 Pandemic hit New York, I wasn’t surprised to hear music station Z100’s Erica America announce that community member Joey Cestare was spreading hope – creating yard signs with messages of support for Front Liners, and giving away Hope rainbow window signs…

VIDEO:  Delivering Signarama Signs of Support:

[vimeo.com/annparry/support]
Using careful social distancing, Joey and Laurie delivered a “Strong – We’ll get through this” sign for my front yard, and a Hope rainbow sign for my front window.

While I told them news I’d been waiting to share for a while, I captured it with my iPhone, using 2X zoom, so I could share the video with the rest of our family. It turns out everyone involved said it was okay to share it here.


We’re all in this together


FEATURE PHOTO at top of post: Merrick, NY, U.S. April 5, 2020. JOE CESTARE, owner of Signarama in Bellmore, holds rainbow HOPE sign he is giving for free, while Long Island is hot spot during COVID-19 Pandemic. LAURIE GRAB is in truck.


SIGNARAMA Bellmore is your full service sign center

2956 Merrick Rd, Bellmore, NY 11710   directions

516-783-1075 • Signsbellmore@gmail.com

signarama.com/locations/ny-bellmore/

@signaramabellmore •  @signsbellmore

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Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Reception at fotofoto gallery for its Your Best Shot Open Photography push-pin exhibition.

long ago last month, at fotofoto gallery

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
March 31, 2020

putting a pin in it

MY ANSWER:  Fotofoto gallery’s “Your Best Shot” Reception, on February 29, 2020, for its Open Photography Push-Pin Exhibition

QUESTION:  What’s the most recent social gathering of two or more people you’ve attended?

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. DONNA LYNN STEIN, of Centerport, is at fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. DONNA LYNN STEIN, of Centerport, is at fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. Susan Tiffen, her mother-in-law, was a Best in Show co-winner. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

On Leap Day, I got a chance to see my friends and their photography at the fotofoto gallery push-pin event in Huntington.

Then March came in like a lion that quickly became an invasion of COVID-19 lions. Serious and smart social distancing became a must.

So my above answer will be my answer for the foreseeable future.

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Susan Tiffen poses under to her photo ‘Jones Beach Babe,’ a Best in Show co-winner, as her son takes her picture during reception at fotofoto gallery for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. SUSAN TIFFEN, of Roslyn Heights, poses under her photo ‘Jones Beach Babe,’ a Best in Show co-winner, as her son and daughter-in-law take her picture during reception at fotofoto gallery for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. SUSAN K. SILKOWITZ points to her photo during fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. SUSAN K. SILKOWITZ points to her photo during fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Artist C SLOGGATT WOLFF is at fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Artist C SLOGGATT WOLFF is at fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

  • AHMAD HARMON photos (@Ahmadshotya) My favorite photos by an artist I didn’t know about until the fotofoto reception:

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Photographs by AHMAD HARMON are among those displayed at fotofoto gallery's 'Your Best Shot' Open Photography exhibition, seen during its Reception. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Photographs by AHMAD HARMON, of Newport News, Virginia, are among those displayed at fotofoto gallery’s ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography exhibition, seen during its Reception. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Artist LINDA STAALLONE LOUIS and her husband are at fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition, which includes her photo of her young granddaughter. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Artist LINDA STALLONE LOUIS and her DAVE, both of Dix Hills, are at fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition, which includes her photo of her young granddaughter. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Seen from a sidewalk sign and fotofoto gallery reception for its 'Your Best Shot' Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. Seen from sidewalk sign is the fotofoto gallery reception for its ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography push-pin exhibition. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. BOB STUHMER waits across the street from the Paramount Theater while his friend captures photos, after they left the nearby fotofoto gallery reception. (© 2020 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Huntington, New York, U.S. February 29, 2020. BOB STUHMER, of Garden City Park, waits across the street from the Paramount Theater while his girlfriend captures photos, during their walk from fotofoto gallery to RAVAGH PERSIAN GRILL Huntington. (© 2020 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

fotofoto finish


FEATURE PHOTO  at top of post  [NOTE: digital isolation of photos] Huntington, NY, U.S. Feb. 29, 2020. Photographs in the fotofoto gallery ‘Your Best Shot’ Open Photography exhibition are attached to walls with push-pins. Below are Facebook links of photographers, when possible:

Photographs, clockwise, starting upper left: VICTORIA JORGLEWICH  @Victoria6868  (wet beach boardwalk)  •  DEBORAH KITTNER  @DeborahKittnerPhotography  (hot air balloons)  •  DEBORAH KITTNER  (tulip)  •  ART LEIBOWITZ (mother child diamond wall)  •  LINDA LOUIS LindaLouisArt.com  (granddaughter)  •  ART LEIBOWITZ  (hazy beach fencing)  •  ART LEIBOWITZ  (Extremely Loud Incredibly Close, NYC)  •  DEBORAH KITTNER  (sunflowers butterfly)  •  VICTORIA JORGLEWICH  (train tracks sunbeams)


fotofoto gallery reception:  my photo gallery

fotofoto gallery:  site  •  facebook

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Hempstead NY, Oct. 5, 2018. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) speaks at podium at start of Town Hall Meeting at Hofstra University, Long Island.

Gillibrand Town Hall at Hofstra: YES to Affordable Health Care & Education; Diversity & Hope

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
October 6, 2018

Hempstead NY, USA, Oct. 5, 2018. Sen. KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND poses with, L-R, MARIA TERESA ROMERO, ELSA FORD, and MILLIE MOTA, members of Brentwood Bay Shore Breast Cancer Coalition, at end of Town Hall at Hofstra University. (Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Hempstead, NY, USA. Oct. 5, 2018. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), 2nd from right, poses with, L-R, Maria Teresa Romero, Elsa Ford, and Millie Mota, members of Brentwood Bay Shore Breast Cancer Coalition, at end of Town Hall at Hofstra. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s Town Hall at Hofstra University last night, Oct. 5th, landed at the start of the Columbus Day holiday weekend. But midterm elections were only 31 days away, and the Student Center Theater was packed.

After Dean Meena Bose, the moderator, introduced Gillibrand, the senator spoke to the largely supportive audience.

Anyone who wanted to ask Senator Gillibrand a question had taken a red raffle ticket, and put half of it in a glass bowl before the Town Hall began. Tickets were drawn at random for the Q&A. 

Judge Kavanaugh

Not surprisingly, an early question was about the highly controversial Supreme Court nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh – which the Senate was voting on the next day.  

Gillibrand said she planned to vote against his confirmation because she thinks he’d put Roe VS Wade in danger, and “Judge Kavanaugh, he doesn’t value women, does not respect women, or listen to them.” 

Young Voters:

To a politically active but frustrated young voter, Gillibrand stressed the importance of being heard, voting, fighting for our country and values, and not giving up hope.

Excerpts from Gillibrand’s response:

“Don’t lose hope. Truth is, our Democracy never works unless regular people stand up and demand action….

“And, if we can really be heard and talk about our values and our priorities and how disappointing it is to have someone like Brett Kavanaugh serve on the Supreme Court, if we articulate that by voting, and organizing our communities, and even running if you think we must –

” – You’re gonna transform government, you’re gonna flip the house, and you’re gonna flip the senate, and that will create enormous oversight and accountability over the Trump administration, and give us a chance of unwinding some of the horrible things this president has already done, so do not lose hope.

“And most successful movements in this country have been student lead movements. So when young people care deeply, their parents care deeply, and so do their communities.

Opioid Crisis:

When a Hofstra alumnus asked what actual approaches were going to be taken to effectively deal with the opioid crisis, Senator Gillibrand said, “Children are dying all across this country,” and discussed how more, and more effective, Prevention, Intervention and Response were needed.

Trump 2020:
An audience member asked, “For those of use who are on the ground, and are working hard everyday, and are gonna keep on working, what can we do so we can make sure we don’t end up with another Trump or somebody worse in 2020, outside from asking people like you to run in 2020, in all sincerity?”

Excerpts from Gillibrand’s response:

“I believe we will win, in both ’18 and ’20 because I think America believes in a set of values that President Trump doesn’t believe in…. We believe in the Golden Rule…. Making sure everyone has a chance at the American Dream.

“So whether you believe that health care is a right, not a privilege – clean water is a right – every kid should have access to a good education – that people shouldn’t be with laden with debt after college – that people should have the training to get a good job to earn their way to middle class, those four values will be on the ballot 2020.

“Those are American values I believe New Yorkers and people across the county will vote for, and that will be very different leadership than today.”

Immigration:

The last question was a long, multi-part one about immigration, and the audience softly booed when the questioner said the parents of Dreamers should never get citizenship.

When Senator Gillibrand’s response started with “I disagree,” the audience cheered. She then added, “That was a heartfelt question, so let me tell you why I disagree,” and responded energetically. [Video starts during audience member’s question]

Gillibrand concluded with a rousing message about diversity:

“Fundamentally, do not be afraid of people who need our help. We are rich. We are powerful. We can create a growing economy.

“And the things that create a growing economy is diversity – is ingenuity – is entrepreneurism – is innovation, and that comes from the beautiful panoply of America.”

Q&A topics also included:

  • Support of Senate bills protecting wildlife whose numbers are dangerously low.
  • Support of Peace legislation: Senate Bill S.2047, Preventing Preemptive War with North Korea Act of 2017, which has 13 out of 100 senators currently backing it.
  • Fighting hunger, including through food stamps – whose main recipients are children, seniors, and veterans – and through non-profit programs such as Island Harvest – Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization – which, as Gillibrand explained, “marshals food and supplies from people who have offered it to those who need it most.”

The audience applauded enthusiastically at the end of the Q&A.

Gillibrand promised to stay as long as it took for everyone who wanted a selfie with her to get one. (Well, they were sort-of selfies, since an aide took them, using audience members’ cell phones.)

The line for photos stretched from the stage to halfway across the back of the theater. 


Gillibrand Town Hall, Hofstra: PHOTO GALLERY

All my Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand Videos: vimeo.com/channels/gillibrand

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Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Parked under the elevated LIRR train tracks are some of the hundreds of classic and custom cars on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of Bellmore station.

Bellmore Friday Night Car Shows 3: Red, White & Blowtorch

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
August 31, 2018

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. At the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, many cars and visitors are under the overhead tracks at the Bellmore LIRR train station. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. At the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, many cars and visitors are under the overhead tracks at the Bellmore LIRR train station. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Whether their cars wore vivid coats of paint or muted ones, the owners I met at the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show last week were colorful and happy to talk, especially about the treasures they drove there.

Mr. Blowtorch

Standing next to his sleek black Chevy SS, “Mr. Blowtorch” was handing out small free stickers – each with a beautifully illustrated car scene and “Friday Night • Car Show • Bellmore” on it.

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Hundreds of classic and custom cars are on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. This traditional Long Island event is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. “Mr. Blowtorch” holds stickers he’s giving away for free, in front of his black Chevrolet SS at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

I took two or three stickers as he shared anecdotes, and showed photos on his cell phone, about his former career as a theatrical stage metal worker (NYC’s Local One – IATSE). 

So “Mr. Blowtorch” was the nickname he got at work, which spanned decades and continents, and included making the large flat metal world map, showing several rotated views of Earth, for the set of CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite!

See the USA in Your 1957 Chevrolet

A big fan of the Chevy Tri-Years, 1955-57 (and shiny red things), I headed straight to a red 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air as soon as I spotted it. 

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Hundreds of classic and custom cars are on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. This traditional Long Island event is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. Visitors at left finish taking close look at red 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, and its owner opens driver’s door, to relocate car across lane. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

The twin chrome rockets on its open hood looked ready to blast over the elevated train tracks of the Bellmore LIRR train station. 

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. Closeup of rocket ornaments on open hood of red 1957 Chevy Bel Air that is on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. On open hood of red 1957 Chevy Bel Air, rocket ornament points up toward overhead tracks of LIRR train station, during Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

It turned out I arrived just in time to capture a shot of that, since – though the rockets weren’t leaving the car – the car was about to move to an apparently more desirable spot that had just opened up across the lane. 

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Hundreds of classic and custom cars are on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, N, USA. August 24, 2018. Closeup of front grill and bumper of red 1957 Chevy Bel Air on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

The alert owner quickly – and very carefully – moved his Chevy to the new space, where the dusk light softly lit up the golden front grill and chrome bumper.

Back to the 80’s

And this cruise night certainly didn’t disappoint when it came to creative, fun vanity plates.

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Hundreds of classic and custom cars are on display at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. This traditional Long Island event is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. Owner Frankie D’Amore, of Levittown, is seated, at right, next to  his 1984 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible with fitting license plate number, at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

FRANKIE D’AMORE, of Levittown, had “BAC2D80S” license plates on his white with red interior 1984 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible. Small green, white and red “Italia” boxing gloves dangling from the rear view mirror gave an extra personal touch.

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Owner Frankie D'Amore, of Levittown sits next to his 1984 white Cadillac El Dorado Biarritz convertible with a particularly fitting license plate number BAC2D80S, at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. At left, owner Frankie D’Amore, of Levittown gives a “thumbs up” as he sits next to his 1984 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible, at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Cruise Nighttime

It was well past sunset when I left shortly before 9 PM that late summer night.

Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores members, wearing yellow reflective safety vests, were collecting entrance fees from drivers of the classic, antique and customized cars, who had over an hour of cruise night to enjoy.

For me, like the rest of the hundreds of visitors who walked in, Bellmore Friday Night Car Show was free.

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 24, 2018. Members of Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores, wearing yellow reflective safety vests, give drivers a car sticker after they collect $3 entrance fee from each car entering the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show at the Bellmore LIRR Train Station parking lot. Visitors walk in for free. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 24, 2018. Members of Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores, wearing yellow reflective safety vests, collect entrance fee from each car entering the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. Visitors walk in for free. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)


Just the Facts

WHEN:  Weekly meets from first week of May to first week of October: MAY 3 to OCT. 5, 2018, from 6 PM – 10 PM (weather permitting)

WHERE:  Bellmore LIRR parking lot on Sunrise Highway (between Bellmore Ave. & Bedford Ave.)

INFObellmorechamber.com   (516)-679-1875 – The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and the Town of Hempstead host Friday Night Bellmore Car Shows


UPDATE:  2019 Schedule

Weekly Friday meets from MAY 3 to OCT. 4, 2019, from 6 PM -10 PM (weather permitting)


2018 Bellmore Friday Night Car Shows:   PHOTO GALLERY

CONTACT ME

[Photo Composite Illustration] Massapequa, New York, USA. August 5, 2018. L-R, LIUBA GRECHEN SHIRLEY, Democrat running for Congress for New York 2nd District, and Governor ANDREW CUOMO, at campaign event after Cuomo endorsed Grechen Shirley.

Gov. Cuomo Endorses Liuba Grechen Shirley for Congress

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
August 9, 2018

Massapequa, NY USA. August 5, 2018. L-R, Gov. Andrew Cuomo endorses candidates, as Laura Curran, Nassau County Executive; NY Sen. John Brooks; and Liuba Grechen Shirley, Congressional candidate for NY 2nd District; and supporters listen at joint campaign office opening. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Massapequa, NY USA. Aug. 5, 2018. L-R, Gov. Andrew Cuomo endorses Liuba Grechen Shirley for Congress, as Laura Curran, Nassau County Exec.; NY Sen. John Brooks; Grechen Shirley & supporters listen at campaign office opening. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Making a surprise appearance, Governor Cuomo endorsed Liuba Grechen Shirley, the Democratic candidate for Congress in the 2nd District, during her Joint Campaign Office Opening with NY Senator John Brooks on Sunday, August 5th. 

Grechen Shirley, a community organizer and activist, business and non-profit leader, and mother of two toddlers, is the first female candidate to get FEC permission to use campaign funds for childcare.

Massapequa, NY, USA. August 5, 2018. L-R, Democrats Laura Gillen, Hempstead Town Supervisor; Liuba Grechen Shirley, Congressional candidate for NY 2nd District; and Laura Curran, Nassau County Executive, chat at campaign event. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Massapequa, NY, USA. August 5, 2018. L-R, Democrats Laura Gillen, Hempstead Town Supervisor; Liuba Grechen Shirley, Congressional candidate for NY 2nd District; and Laura Curran, Nassau County Executive, chat at campaign event. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Despite it being a muggy, 91°f summer day, more supporters attended the campaign event than could fit in the office during speeches by the governor, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, Liuba Grechen Shirley, and Sen. Brooks.

Massapequa, NY, USA. August 5, 2018. Supporter writes in Volunteer Sign-In sheet, during joint campaign office opening for Liuba Grechen Shirley, Congressional candidate for NY 2nd District, and NY Sen. John Brooks. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Massapequa, NY, USA. Aug. 5, 2018. Supporter writes in Volunteer Sign-In sheet, during campaign office opening for Liuba Grechen Shirley, Congressional candidate for 2nd District; & NY Sen. John Brooks. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

SPEECHES

    • VIDEO: Speeches by Gov. Cuomo, Liuba Grechen Shirley, & Sen. John Brooks:


The series of four speeches started and ended with a joke about the sweltering weather.

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran went to the podium in the packed office, and the crowd laughed when she smiled and said clothes wouldn’t be coming off despite the heat.

When the County Executive endorsed Liuba Grechen Shirley, the reasons Curran gave to vote for her, and other Democrats, included how Republicans are anti-New York State – by passing the tax reform provision removing state and local tax deductions – and are anti-gun control, pro NRA.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo

Curran introduced Governor Andrew Cuomo, an unannounced special guest.

The governor seconded the importance of getting reasonable gun controls, despite NRA’s influence.

Cuomo said how Republicans have a different fundamental view of America as a nation, including being anti-immigrant and abandoning Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. He added how New York sued the federal government for family separation.

“And Laura Curran’s point is very important. They [Republican Congress members] are anti New York State, what they did in their tax reform last year. They passed a provision that removed the deductibility of state & local taxes….

Why? Because they want to hurt New York. This federal provision raises property taxes by 30% like that, overnight. We have to get Washington to reverse it…. 

“I am tired of the Republican Congress people from New York saying — when I said, ‘Why would you pass a bill that hurts your own people?’ That’s what the SALT bill did. It hurt this state. It hurt their constituents ‘Why would you do it?’ — they say, ‘Well, we’re powerless. We’re powerless.’ 

You know what?  That’s baloney. They have been enablers for this president….

“And I’ll tell you how we stop Congress from doing bad acts to New York. We elect Democratic Congress people who will stand up and protect New York.

“We elect Liuba Grechen Shirley. We let Liuba tell them the truth, and stand up for women’s rights, and immigrant rights, and for gun safety, and for New Yorkers….

“We let Liuba stand up in Washington and explain how Progressive policies made this state the greatest state in the United States of America….

“We elect Liuba, and then we elect John Brooks, and Lou D’Amaro, and Monica Martinez, and Jim Gaughran, and we take over the State Senate.”

Massapequa, NY, USA. August 5, 2018. Liuba Grechen Shirley, Congressional candidate for NY 2nd District, gives speech at podium after Gov. Cuomo endorses her. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

Liuba Grechen Shirley

Liuba Grechen Shirley, a first-time candidate, thanked Cuomo for endorsing her and for New York having the strongest Paid Family Leave policy in America, and said she was excited at the prospect of working with him, Lou D’Amaro, and Sen. John Brooks.

“…It’s critical we take back the [NY] Senate, and flip the House. What is so exciting about our campaign is that it’s completely grass roots, We out raised Peter King this quarter, and we did it without any corporate PAC money….” 

“This seat has been held for 25 years by a Republican, by Peter King, who refuses to even meet with his constituents. He actually told me that holding a Town Meeting would diminish democracy….

“He does not represent the values of our district, and we need a representative who will actually listen to everyone in this district. Who will fight in Washington to make sure that we actually have a government is taking care of working families in this district, not their corporate donors….

“We’ve got a lot of work to do. This is about values. Who is going to stand up for our values.”

Massapequa, NY, USA. Aug. 5, 2018. NY Senator JOHN BROOKS (D-Seaford) speaks during open joint campaign office for him and Liuba Grechen Shirley. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Massapequa, NY, USA. Aug. 5, 2018. NY Senator John Brooks (D-Seaford) gives speech at podium during open joint campaign office for him and Liuba Grechen Shirley. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann Parry, AnnParry.com)

Sen. John Brooks

Senator Brooks first thanked Governor Cuomo for the outstanding job he is doing in Albany.

“…Our governor was the one that  stood up first and recognized what the federal tax changes would do to New York State…. [SALT Bill]  an 18-billion-dollar tax increase for New Yorkers….

“We hear the president say he wants to make America great again… All we have to do is act like Americans…..

“Lou and I are going to go to the Senate to stand up for Long Island and deliver the products and services that we need in terms of good government….

“Thanks everybody for being here, and remember it’s supposed to snow later this afternoon.”

Loyal-Tees

Several Long Islanders well below voting age came with their parents, including three sisters and their brother wearing red, white and blue campaign shirts with “Joanne Curran Perrucci – for Court Judge / 4th District” on the front, and “Vote For My Mom!” on the back. 

Massapequa, NY, USA. August 5, 2018. L-R,  Joanne Curran Perrucci, candidate for Court Judge 4th District; and Laura Curran, Nassau County Executive; smile at Perrucci's four young children wearing campaign shirts, at opening of fellow Democrats' campaign office. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Massapequa, NY, USA. August 5, 2018. L-R,  Joanne Curran Perrucci, candidate for Court Judge 4th District; and Laura Curran, Nassau County Executive; smile at Perrucci’s  four children wearing campaign shirts, at fellow Democrats’ campaign event. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

At the end of the event, the four siblings helped send-off Governor Cuomo.


DISCLOSURE: Photography I’ve done for Grechen Shirley has appeared elsewhere, but nowhere on this blog.

Cuomo, Endorsements:  VIDEO  •  my PHOTO GALLERY 

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Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018. Francine Goldstein poses with one of many appreciation trophies she's received from AIDS WALK NEW YORK, a fundraising walk and run in Central Park.

AIDS Walk NY: Francine Goldstein’s 600K Marathon

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (annparry.com)
May 4, 2018

A very caring, very determined FRANCINE GOLDSTEIN needs your help reaching her goal of $600,000 in total donations over the 30 years – yes, 30 years – she’s walked the walk for AIDS WALK NEW YORK.

Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018. Francine Goldstein looks forward to her 30th year of participating in AIDS WALK NEW YORK, a fundraising walk and run in Central Park on May 20, 2018. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018. FRANCINE GOLDSTEIN embraces the challenge of having a successful 30th year of fundraising for AIDS WALK NEW YORK. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

AIDS WALK NY 2018: Francine’s Donation Page

Thirty years ago, Francine’s closest friend was diagnosed with AIDS and lived about only 30 months longer. As Francine and her husband visited her during those painful months, they saw how GMHC – Gay Men’s Health Crisis organization – was the one source of help. She promised her friend to do everything possible, so no one else would have to suffer that way, and ever since then Francine’s kept her promise. 

Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018. Francine Goldstein looks forward to her 30th year of participating in AIDS WALK NEW YORK, a fundraising walk and run in Central Park on May 20, 2018. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018. Francine Goldstein looks forward to her 30th year of walking in AIDS WALK NEW YORK. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

AIDS WALK NEW YORK is famously the world’s biggest single-day fundraiser for AIDS, and over the years our family has known Francine, I’ve seen first hand it’s always the right month, the right day, the right time and place for her to ask someone to sponsor her. She’s seriously dedicated to raise funds to help – through GMHC’s prevention, care and advocacy programs –  thousands of people affected by the disease in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

A quarter century ago, AIDS touched my family. Touched? It slammed, smashed and destroyed someone I grew up with and loved and wordlessly expected would be around – would BE – for so many more days and decades. It’s a big reason I’ve joined countless others cheering Francine on.

Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018. FRANCINE GOLDSTEIN holds special poster AIDS WALK NEW YORK created for her. At top of poster is photo of Sen. JOHN E. BROOKS presenting her with NYS Senate Liberty Award. (© 2018 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Merrick, New York, USA. May 3, 2018.Francine Goldstein holds special poster AIDS WALK NEW YORK created for her. At top of poster is photo of Sen. JOHN E. BROOKS presenting her with NYS Senate Liberty Award. (© 2018 Ann Parry/AnnParry.com)

May 20th, the day of the walk, is a couple of weeks away, and Francine’s about $15,000 away from raising $600,000. For 30 years and counting, she’s been running a marathon, and her white and red race shirt says: “AIDS WALK NEW YORK • GMHC END AIDS. LIVE LIFE.”

UPDATE May 13, 2018:  Francine’s about $9,600 away from her goal, and AIDS WALK 2018 is a week away.

AIDS WALK NY 2018: Francine Goldstein’s Donation Page

Francine Goldstein:  PHOTO GALLERY

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Old Westbury Gardens Winter Holiday – Now & Then

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (ann-parry.com)
December 23, 2017

Last Sunday, while entering the snowy grounds of Old Westbury Gardens with my friend Bob, I thought back to 2007, when I visited the Gold Coast estate during a biting, heavy snowfall.

PAST – 2007

That day 10 Decembers ago, I stayed outside capturing photos until I absolutely had to go to Westbury House, beg mercy from volunteers in the Entrance Hall, take off my gloves and boots, and stand toasty close to the fireplace.

Old Westbury, New York, USA. Dec. 5, 2007. At Westbury House, the Entrance Hall window with black wrought iron grill gives hazy glimpse of snowstorm. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, Ann-Parry.com)

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 5, 2007. At Westbury House, the Entrance Hall window with black wrought iron grill gives hazy glimpse of snowstorm. (© 2007 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Slowly defrosting in the impressively elegant wood and marble hall, I imagined myself back outside the mansion, but during the Great Blizzard of 1947, when the John and Margarita Phipps family lived there….

FANTASY 1947

I was a trespasser with a noble mission – wielding my Kodak in the snowstorm to capture ghostlike images of trees – and, alas, flirting with hypothermia.

Without warning, a tall stranger swept me off my numb feet and whisked me to the mansion. As we took off our coats, I noticed he, too, had a camera strapped around his neck.

We sat in front a fireplace surrounded by books, and he put his hand to his chest. “Victor, Victor Hasselblad – a… a husgäst of Phipps,” he said softly and with a melodic accent. “And you, lilla frusen lövsångare?” 

“Oh my,” I said, “You’re THE Victor Hasselblad!” 

The genius nodded. 

“You’ve just GOT to develop a Hasselblad camera for civilians!” I said, and then started to tell him why….

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. A lighted Christmas tree decorates the formal dining room of Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens during its Winter Holiday event. (Ann Parry/˙ 2017 Ann-Parry.com)

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. A lighted Christmas tree decorates the elegant dining room of Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens during its Winter Holiday event. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

PRESENT – 2017

Now I’m, at times, better about coming in from the cold before losing feeling in my extremities.

But I always do my best to protect my camera. So last weekend when Bob and I arrived at Old Westbury Gardens and stepped out of the car on to slippery icy snow-covered grounds, we headed straight to Westbury House.

Once inside, we heard what sounded like live music coming from the Ballroom just ahead. We were right, for in a far corner of the vast room, pianist ANGELINA FUSCO was playing traditional Christmas music on a Steinway grand piano, backlit by large windows. Capturing the atmospheric scene was a fun challenge.

  • CLICK on any photo to see larger image

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. Pianist ANGELINA FUSCO plays Christmas music on Steinway grand piano to entertain visitors at Old Westbury Gardens museum, a former estate of John Shaffer Phipps, during snowy winter holiday weekend on Long Island's Gold Coast. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Old Westbury, New York, USA. Dec. 17, 2017. Pianist ANGELINA FUSCO plays Christmas music on Steinway grand piano at Old Westbury Gardens museum during Winter Holiday weekend. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

The Main Hall was a must see, especially for families with children, since that’s where Santa sat surrounded by a Christmas tree, fireplace that was a great setting for holiday photos, and stairway strewn with stuffed animals looking as if they’d spilled out of Santa’s bag as he made his way up to the Children’s Quarters on the Third floor.

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. Santa sits ready for visitors next to a Christmas tree on second floor of Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens museum during snowy winter holiday weekend. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. Santa sits ready for visitors next to a Christmas tree on second floor of Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens museum during winter holiday weekend. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Bob lingered longest in the bedroom with a large-scale model train traveling around the room, disappearing for a while each lap as it followed tracks under the bed.

Visitors of all ages also enjoyed the charming scene in Mrs. Phipps’s bathroom, where deer and penguins watched a fawn take a bubble bath in the green and white bathtub.

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. In the Westbury House children's sunny bathroom of Old Westbury Gardens museum, deer and penguins watch over fawn taking a bubble bath. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. Deer family and penguins watch over a fawn taking a bubble bath in Mrs. Phipps’s bathroom at Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens, a Long Island Gold Coast estate. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

As closing time neared, we visited the Porch facing West, with its three walls of windows, and enjoyed hot cider and the panoramic, ungilded dusk view.

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. At Westbury House, two Christmas trees flank the Porch facing West, with panoramic view of snowy grounds during Winter Holiday event at Old Westbury Gardens. (© 2017, Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Old Westbury, New York, USA. December 17, 2017. At Westbury House, two Christmas trees flank the Porch facing West, with panoramic view of snowy grounds during Winter Holiday event at Old Westbury Gardens. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

And when it was time to go, we made our way through the snow once again.


Old Westbury Gardens Winter 2017:  PHOTO GALLERY

  • Old Westbury Gardens:  SITE  •  JOIN

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Bellmore Friday Night Car Shows 2

From LONG ISLAND – by Ann Parry (ann-parry.com)
August 17, 2017

Last Friday, my friend Bob and I walked out of International Delight Cafe where we had dinner, and plunged into the tide of cars, motorcycles and fellow walkers heading to the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show at the Bellmore LIRR Station parking lot.

    • UPDATE: see 2019 Schedule for Friday Night Car Shows at end of post

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. Hood ornament closeup is shown of 1938 Pontiac 2-door sedan parked at the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA.  August 11, 2017. Shown is hood ornament of 1938 Pontiac 2-door sedan at the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Before long, we were in a colorful sea of parked cars and enjoying the breezy evening. Then we met up with friends and started to explore.

As usual, I spent most of my time lingering at just a few cars, so I could pay careful attention to them, and chat with their owners when possible.

  • Click on each photo below for larger view 

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 11, 2017. Red RAM lifted underlit truck drives past onlookers at the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 11, 2017. Red RAM lifted underlit truck drives past onlookers at the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

1958 Oldsmobile “Bugmobile”

“Bugsy” is embroidered on FRANK MARTOCCI‘s  green cap, which matches the color of the 1958 Oldsmobile Super 88 4-door sedan he fondly calls his “Bugmobile.”

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. FRANK MARTOCCI, of Bellmore is owner of green Oldsmobile, 1958. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA. August 11, 2017. FRANK MARTOCCI, of Bellmore, owns the green Bugsmobile 1958 Oldsmobile at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2017 Ann Parry, Ann-Parry.com)

What first drew my attention to Martocci’s classic Oldsmobile were the colorful plastic cheeseburger, ketchup and mustard bottles on the food tray suspended from the passenger window partly rolled down – but it just as easily could have been the colorful plastic bugs strewn on the car’s exterior and top of the cheeseburger.

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. Chrome hood ornament is seen closeup of green 1958 Oldsmobile, owned by Frank Martocci, of Bellmore, at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. Marocci calls the classic car his Bugmobile. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. Chrome hood ornament is seen closeup of green 1958 Oldsmobile, owned by Frank Martocci, of Bellmore, at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. Martocci calls the classic car his Bugmobile. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

The Bugsmobile is the first and only car Martocci has ever had. He used it for his driver’s license Road Test, and by next month, September 2017, he’ll have had it for 40 years.

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. At Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, Frank Martocci, of Bellmore, is owner of Bugmobile, owner of green Oldsmobile, 1958, with left taillight shown in detail where chrome piece is swung open to reveal opening the gas is put in tank. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. To fill tank with gas, chrome piece swings open on left tail light of 1958 Oldsmobile owned by FRANK MARTOCCI, at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show  (© 2107 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

1967 Volkswagon Wunderbug Woody

MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, is the artistic owner of the 1967 Volkswagen Wunderbug Woody Wagon that drew lots of appreciative attention from visitors.

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017.  At right, MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, owner of 1967 Wunderbug Volkswagen, and BRYAN RICHHEIMER, of Vermont, chat at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017.  At right, MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, owner of 1967 Wunderbug Volkswagen, and BRYAN RICHHEIMER, a bird sculptor from Vermont, chat at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Woodys, with their golden warm panels, are innately handsome vehicles, and Radomski customized his with flare.

The wooden roof luggage rack carries three surfboards with natural wood finish. He told how a man so loved this look during an earlier car show that he asked if Radomski would bring the wagon to the man’s beach party.

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. At Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, is the owner of Wunderbug Woody Volkswagen, with homemade angel hood ornament. Elevated tracks of Bellmore Long Island Rail Road station are seen in background. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. At Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, owns Wunderbug Woody Volkswagen. Elevated tracks of Bellmore Long Island Rail Road station are in background. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Radomski covered the Wunderbug hood in colorful floral fabric of earthy red yellow and greens. And I was fascinated by the trumpeting angel hood ornament he handmade from three silver forks, a 10-penny nail and a washer!

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017.  At right, MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, owner of 1967 Wunderbug Volkswagen, and BRYAN RICHHEIMER, of Vermont, chat at Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. RADOMSKI made angel hood ornament made from 3 silver forks, 10 penny nail, and a washer. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, NY, USA.  Aug. 11, 2017.  MIKE RADOMSKI, of Valley Stream, the owner of 1967 Wunderbug Volkswagen, made angel hood ornament. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

And, yes, the Woody Wagon got to go to the beach party :)

Going & Coming

Around 8:30 pm, we left to head back to IDC for some homemade gelato, and passed the ever-alert volunteers from the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and the Nassau Auxiliary police guiding the steady stream of cars into the parking lot.

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 11, 2017. Members of the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and Nassau County Auxiliary Police wear yellow neon reflective safety vests as they guide cars into the main lot of the Long Island Rail Road Bellmore Train Station parking lot where the Bellmore Friday Night Car Show is held. (Ann Parry/Ann Parry, ann-parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. August 11, 2017. Members of the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and Nassau County Auxiliary Police wear safety vests as they guide cars into LIRR Bellmore Train Station parking lot for Bellmore Friday Night Car Show. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

We each had the fun challenge of choosing one of the 80 or so flavors of gelato. For me, chatting with new and old friends while eating a scoop of chocolate chip gelato on a gluten-free waffle was a great way to end that summer night in Bellmore.

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. Motorcyclist locks up her parked Harley Davidson motorcycle parked with other motorcycles across the street from Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. (Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)

Bellmore, New York, USA. 11th August 2017. Motorcyclist locks up her parked Harley Davidson motorcycle parked with other motorcycles across the street from Bellmore Friday Night Car Show, in parking lot of LIRR Bellmore station. (© 2017 Ann Parry/Ann-Parry.com)


Just the Facts

WHEN:  Weekly meets from MAY 12 to OCT. 6, 2017, from 6 PM – 10 PM (weather permitting)

WHERE:  Bellmore LIRR parking lot on Sunrise Highway (between Bellmore Ave. & Bedford Ave.)

INFObellmorechamber.com   (516)-679-1875 – The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and the Town of Hempstead host Friday Night Bellmore Car Shows


UPDATE:  2019 Schedule

Weekly Friday meets from MAY 3 to OCT. 4, 2019, from 6 PM -10 PM (weather permitting)


2017 Bellmore Friday Night Car Shows:   GALLERY

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