Oceanside chamber gala returns after hiatus

After a hiatus due to the pandemic, the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce gathered again for the annual Chamber Cocktail Party at Temple Avodah.

The chamber honored Janet Pearsall as “Citizen of the Year.” Pearsall has worked for decades in the Long Island and New York City foster care systems and has been an active member of the Oceanside community, with numerous different roles in the Oceanside School District, as a member of Oceanside Kiwanis as well as library trustee.

Maria Heller, who has served in the chamber for 30 years, introduced Pearsall as “Citizen of the Year.”

In all my years in Oceanside, Janet has been one of the first volunteers for everything. She actually gets the job done,” said Heller. “She’s a very compassionate person, and that spills over into any task she does in the community unity. Through all her years in the PTA, you can see how Janet cares about the children and their direction and paths they take.”

Former chamber president Ed Scharfsberg bestowed “Business of the Year” honors upon Michael Graham of “Flowers by Mike.” Since opening Flowers by Mike, Graham has donated to Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, where every Mother’s Day roses are distributed to the nurses and patients. The business also has made donations to the Oceanside Garden Club and the Dawn Delirium fashion show, which is a safe after-prom party for Oceanside High School seniors. Graham is also a volunteer firefighter for the past 18 years and a member of the Oceanside Warriors, a club that helps beautify the Oceanside community.

Paul Engel, who was sworn in as Oceanside chamber president, spoke to the crowd on the continued mission of the chamber. “Whether you’re a retailer, a healthcare provider, like ourselves, or in a service business, these past two years have been a challenge,” he said. “I think everybody can attest to that. As we pull together to rebuild professionally and keep Oceanside a vital thriving place to live and work. Our meetings offer a way to network with local business people, share information, increase referrals and make friends. I look forward to working with you and welcome your input and participation in the coming months.”