Mangano touts funds for Empire State Games

Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano announced Wednesday that he is more than halfway to a goal of $150,000 in public donations for the second year of nonstate-funded Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged.

"Through public-private partnerships, Nassau County will again secure enough of the funds needed to host the. . . Games for the Physically Challenged," said Mangano, surrounded by game supporters and athletes on the gym floor of the Henry Viscardi School for the disabled in Albertson.

The games, free for athletes and viewers, open May 31 and close June 3 at Mitchel Athletic Complex and Nassau Community College.

This is the 28th year and the second without state funding for the Nassau-based games.

Helping Mangano continue the games in the county is the NBTY Helping Hands Charity, a nonprofit formed by the giant Bohemia-based vitamin firm, formerly Nature's Bounty, which this year donated $50,000. "We will remain a sponsor," said Michael Oliveri, with the NBTY charity.

Other contributors include The Ike, Molly and Steven Elias Foundation In Jericho for $10,000, A Little Something Charities in Patchogue for $3,500, and the Bussani Mobility Team in Bethpage for $3,000.

Events include track, field, archery, wheelchair basketball and table tennis. Participants, whose ages range from 5 to 21, have disabilities that include visual impairment, cerebral palsy and amputations.

Mangano said he can't imagine that Long Islanders would let the games end. "Long Islanders," he said, "are known for their kindness." He said about 1,000 participated last year, and the numbers have steadily gone up.

Hofstra University provides participants with housing for a small fee. King Kullen will continue to feed participants."The young student athletes who are able to participate in the weekend of events are truly inspirational to watch," said Mangano. "As you see them cross the finish line, you see the smiles on their faces and tears of joy in their eyes."