Community Corner

Rhoads Presents Nursery With New York State Empire Award

Abby's Parkside Nursery & Florist in Wantagh received the award, announced Dec. 24.

New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, with the owners of Abby's Parkside Nursery & Florist.
New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, with the owners of Abby's Parkside Nursery & Florist. (Credit: New York State Senator Steve Rhoads)

WANTAGH, NY. — Abby’s Parkside Nursery & Florist, a third-generation family-owned garden center in Wantagh, has been presented with the New York State Empire award, New York State Senator Steve Rhoads announced Wednesday. The award, Rhoads’ office said, celebrates businesses for commitments to community service, local leadership and excellence.

Under the ownership of Eric and Carrie Abolafia, the nursery supports the Wantagh Heroes Walk, the annual Winter Wonderland and the Wantagh Fall Fest, Rhoads’ office said, in addition to its contribution to school fundraisers, youth sports leagues, senior citizen programs and nonprofit organizations.

“Abby’s Parkside Nursery & Florist’s enduring legacy of service, leadership, and community pride makes them truly deserving of this distinguished honor,” Rhoads’ office said Wednesday. “For decades, Abby’s has been more than a local business — it has been a trusted community partner and a cornerstone of the neighborhood.”

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