10 People Who Mattered in Glen Cove in 2011
We all matter; we all make a difference. These Glen Cove people stood out in 2011.
Matt Venturino
Glen Cove EMS responder Matt Venturino transported blankets for rescued cats and kittens from Glen Cove Hospital to 43 Elm Avenue.
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Glen Cove Patch received your nominations, and tallied them up. Now, it is time to reveal the names of people you thought made a difference in 2011. If you can, take a moment to comment on this story, telling how one of these people made a difference in your life. That may inspire others to step up in 2012. Here is our list in alphabetical order:
Jim Coniglione: Coniglione is a Glen Cove resident and owner of the Scoopy Doo cleanup company. He provides a unique waste removal service on Long Island, as well as Westchester, that is more than appreciated by locals with dogs (or geese!). This year, his company co-sponsored the Spooktacular Howl’oween Pet Parade. Glen Cove Patch also interviewed Coniglione in September; he was one of a handful of residents who lost power for a week due to Tropical Storm Irene.
Jeanine DiMenna: Owner of Page One Restaurant on School Street, Chef Jeanine is a beloved member of the community. She is regarded as a “steadfast supporter of Glen Cove,” according to one nominator. Her food is praised as “excellent” by many; her warmth and generosity, appreciated by all. Page One also played host to multiple fundraisers and performing arts events in 2011, including Glen Cove Open Mic Night and Bards Initiative poetry readings.
Robert Germino: Germino ran against Democrat Delia DeRiggi-Whitton for the District 18 seat of the legislature this year. After the race ended too close to call on Nov. 8, both candidates had to await a recount and absentee ballot counting by the Board of Elections. Ultimately, he lost to DeRiggi-Whitton when the race was called in December, but he ran a competitive campaign, nominators said. Germino was also featured in Patch’s “Changed by 9/11” series in September.
Superintendent Dr. Joseph Laria: Laria was named as the Glen Cove School District’s new superintendent in March. He was appointed to the interim position back in May for the 2010-2011 school year, as a replacement for Dr. Laurence Aronstein, who retired after serving five years as superintendent. Laria is regarded as an “incredibly positive” influence, and an essential part of the district.
Paul Meli: Meli ran against incumbent Democrat Ralph Suozzi for Glen Cove mayor. After polls closed on Election Day, Meli trailed Suozzi by 117 votes. Although he ultimately lost the race, many regard him as a vital member of the community, appreciating his diligence, strong will and attendance at City Council meetings.
Reginald Spinello: This longtime resident, and Glen Cove High School graduate, had one, successful year. Residents continue to share their utmost thanks to Spinello, who is Chairman of the Feast of St. Rocco, for bringing back one of the most highly-anticipated festivals on Long Island. He also ran a successful bid for a seat on Glen Cove’s City Council. He takes his oath office on Jan. 2.
Mayor Ralph Suozzi: It was an important year for this nominee; he secured a fourth term as Mayor of Glen Cove in November after running a successful campaign against Republican challenger Paul Meli. It was also a pivotal year for city development, with Suozzi behind much of it. Plans for Glen Cove Piazza were approved this year, and steps were taken to bring the ferry terminal and Waterfront Project to fruition.
Chief Anthony Tripp: After providing the City of Glen Cove with extraordinary service for 14 years, Tripp’s term as Chief of the Fire Department ends on Dec. 31. He is looking forward to getting back into the “ranks” again, and plans to stay active in the firehouse. For the past four years, Tripp has been Treasurer of the Nassau County Fireman's Association. He has also been Secretary of the North Shore Fireman's Holy Name Society for the past five years.
Matthew Venturino: This volunteer firefighter and EMT was recently elected Chief of Glen Cove Emergency Medical Services, and will begin his new position starting midnight, Jan. 1. His dedication to service was more apparent than ever in 2011, making him an integral part of the Glen Cove community.
Julia Wood: This extraordinary, 88-year-old resident can be seen walking to Glen Cove Hospital three mornings each week at 5:15 a.m. to volunteer in the Ambulatory Surgical Unit. She puts patients at ease, and assists the staff when needed. Wood also volunteers at St. Patrick's Church, and babysits with her grandchild and great-grandchild.
Surely, you were impacted by someone on our list or someone else in the community. Use our comment thread to recognize that person:
Tell us in the comments.
In This article
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Scoopy Doo LTD.
26 Daniel Dr, Glen Cove, NY -
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Page One Restaurant Cabaret
90 School St, Glen Cove, NY -
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Glen Cove High School
Dosoris Ln, Glen Cove, NY -
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Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department
10 Glen Cove Ave, Glen Cove, NY -
Glen Cove Volunteer Emergency Medical Service Corps
8 Glen Cove Ave, Glen Cove, NY -
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Glen Cove Hospital
St Andrews Ln, Glen Cove, NY -
St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church
235 Glen St, Glen Cove, NY
Deborah Katz
7:36 pm on Saturday, December 31, 2011
Jim C. Cares
Maribeth Graf
8:27 pm on Saturday, December 31, 2011
Jimbo always does the right thing!! A poop free Glen Cove!! Happy New Year!!
Carolyn Kelly-Loudovikos
8:40 pm on Saturday, December 31, 2011
Jimmy not only cares for our furry friends but all of Glen Cove. He is often found at local town hall and landing pride meetings. During the many snow storms last winter Jimmy was found on his ATV clearing a path for his neighbors and friends. Jimmy is not afraid to speak up for what he believes to be in the best interest of Glen Cove. I am proud to be his neighbor and friend!
bxby
2:09 am on Sunday, January 1, 2012
Nothing against any of the nominees but.. This community is filled with volunteers who devote a significant amount of time and energy to the betterment of our community. let's hear it for ALL the volunteers!!!!
tina salentino
2:20 am on Sunday, January 1, 2012
I think there should be a number11. Michael Salentino,.general foreman of public works. He took us through many, many storms and hurricane Irene. He kept the city safe and sound as he has done for forty years as well as securing FEMA re-embursment funds. Yes, I am his wife, and I know first hand how dedicated he is to our city. I am extremely proud of him.
Elena DiMarco
12:56 pm on Sunday, January 1, 2012
Thank you for mentioning your husband, Tina! Great addition to our list of nominees.
Nick Loudovikos
12:32 pm on Sunday, January 1, 2012
Jim Coniglione, who was born and raised in Glen Cove, has proven to this community time and time again that he cares. From his due diligence in community matters, i.e. water front project, to stopping unwanted business coming to our community, to sponsoring and organizing events. He is an integral part of our community. and a positive role model for us all. He is our unofficial mayor
jim coniglione
8:13 pm on Monday, January 2, 2012
Thank you for the nomination-I am honored-I think Julia Woodshould receive special recognition for all her volunteer work that she has done for our community.At 88 years old she is a true inspiration to us all--Happy and Healthy New Year Glen Cove
Geraldine Orlando
5:14 pm on Thursday, January 5, 2012
Matthew Venturino has set a postive example for the youth of Glen Cove. He is a caring, giving and loyal person to Glen Cove, his family and his friends.