P.W. eateries go plastics-free R. Gardens’ Miller focusing on roads, infrastructure

BY CAMERYN OAKES

It’s a question everyone asks: What am I eating for dinner? But after a long day of working and a fridge full of ingredients that need to be prepared for a meal, the answer to the question is often to order takeout.

But along with the food delivered to the house are a plethora of condiment packets that are already in the fridge and plastic cutlery that’s simply thrown out to be replaced by silverware waiting in the drawers.

Rather than having these disposable items go to waste, Grassroots Environmental Education has launched the Plastic-Free July campaign, which Port Washington restaurants are participating in by omitting single-use plastics in their take-out orders.

Grassroots Environmental Education is an environmental health nonproft established in 2000. Execu- tive Director Patti Wood said its mission is to educate the public about the link between common environmental exposures and human health impacts.

The Plastic-Free July campaign is an initiative working solely with Port Washington restaurants and food establishments to drop the use of plastics in take-out orders throughout the month of July.

Participating restaurants include 21 Port Washington eateries, such as DiMaggio’s, La P’tite Framboise, Gino’s and Toscanini Ristorante.

Wood said many participating restaurants have enjoyed the program and are considering implementing the plastic-free practices beyond the month of July by asking where they can purchase the BioBags for continued use. A BioBag is a compostable, non-plastic bag for take-out orders.

“Which is exactly what

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BY KARINA KOVAC

In a recent victory, David Miller has been re-elected as the mayor of Russell Gardens, vowing to continue his work on infrastructure improvements throughout the village and other necessary projects. Miller, who frst assumed ofce in April 2019, was enthusiastic about tackling the unfnished projects that he believes will greatly beneft the community.

“I have unfnished business; I have some things that I’d like to get to,” Miller said, emphasizing his primary focus on the village’s roads. Recognizing that road repairs can be a signifcant expense, he expressed his determination to complete this crucial project during his current term, saying “that’s not a small thing. That’s a big accomplishment.”

To fund the road repairs, Miller revealed that the village currently has about $500,000 in a surplus account specifcally allocated for roads, along with an additional $50,000 dedicated to the renovation of the village hall. Moreover, a reserve of $1 million has been set aside to ensure the completion of these projects if necessary. Seeking additional fnancial support, Miller intends to explore grant opportunities to further aid in infrastructure improvements.

One of the initial steps taken by Miller is the hiring of a road engineer who will provide a better estimate of how much money will be needed for road repairs.

In the recent election, which took place on June 20, Miller secured his position with a total of 30 votes out of approximately 800 registered voters. The swearing-in ceremony at the village meeting July 13, also included Village Clerk and Treasurer Danielle Pennise, as well as Deputy Clerk Eileen Clancy.

Aside from road repairs, Miller wants to address other pressing issues within Russell Gardens. He plans to improve the antiquated lighting throughout the village, a project he has already initiated.

In the past, Miller has successfully

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