I.P. Chamber honors local businesses

The Island Park Chamber of Commerce honored three local establishments with Business Improvement Awards at its first mixer of the New Year Feb. 25.

Each of the three businesses honored were singled out for improving Island Park.

ESPN Fitness owned by Eddie Leach recently moved into the Kikkert Plaza that had been empty since Hurricane Sandy. Leach said he gutted and rebuilt the entire structure himself, located his gym in two of the store fronts, now made into one, and rented a third to another of the honorees Fluffy Angel Pet Grooming and Spa. Fluffy Angel owner Carlos Zapelli said they had looked for a location in Long Beach and Oceanside, but thought Island Park, central to all three, had the best location, and he praised Leach for the work he did on the building.

Bagel Boys was also completely rebuilt after Sandy as well, at the site of the former Quik Pick. Owners Jim Kraki and Tim Kraki brought in a full service bagel store and deli and held a grand opening last summer. Tim said they offered over 16 types of bagels and catering.

Attending officials included Nassau County Legislator Denise Ford, Town of Hempstead Councilman Anthony D’Esposito and Island Park Village Mayor Michael McGinty.

Chamber President Glenn Ingoglia said “I am very pleased with the turnout of approximately 75 people tonight. There is still much to be done to improve our business community. If there was ever any doubt about the vitality or perseverance of this business community, they have all been cast aside tonight.”