Suozzi Goes Over the Edge for Charity

Suozzi goes over the edge for charity

By Sid Cassese

Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi and 99 other community and business leaders rappelled down a six-story building in Garden City Tuesday to raise money for autism and other illnesses.

"It was exhilarating, with the adrenaline pumping, but it was also nerve-racking," said Suozzi, who made his descent by rope with County Legis. Dave Mejias (D-Farmingdale).

"Looking down, it was also terrifying, but you know it's for a really good cause."

Mejias said he agreed with Suozzi "on all counts."

Both twice rappelled the Garden City Citibank building at 600 Old Country Rd. near Clinton Avenue, the first time separately on a practice run.

Each of the 100 climbers, including Newsday columnist Ellis Henican, aimed to raise $1,500 for the cause.

"Long Islanders have huge hearts and are open to new things," said Jeff Cohen, of St. James, a co-founder of Tuesday's event and an employee of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, a bi-county nonprofit based in Old Bethpage.

Mitch Shapiro of Smithtown, who has Usher syndrome and is legally blind, also rappelled.

"It was fun," he said. "It helped to raise money for charity and to show that people with disabilities can do just about anything."

The event started at 10:30 a.m. and is scheduled to run to at least 5 p.m.