$15K Raised For Nassau First Responders At Autostrade

GLEN COVE, NY — The First City Project’ Collective’s Autostrade event raised $15,000 for the City of Glen Cove’s first responders last month, Nassau Legis. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said.

Glen Cove police, volunteer firefighters, auxiliary police, harbor patrol, and the Emergency Medical Services squad each received a $3,000 donation.

DeRiggi-Whitton joined with the leaders of the not-for-profit organization First City Project Collective Inc. at its historic Coles House headquarters last Thursday to present the agencies with their checks.

First City Project is a not-for-profit organization seeking “to develop public art and cultural activities to celebrate the Glen Cove community, bring positivity, unity, and color to the streets, and engage the town’s youth through parks, recreation, and creative programs,” the news release stated.

It aims “to enhance the community, to strengthen economic development; drive tourism; educate and enrich the spirit and pride of Long Island,” according to the news release.

In previous years, Autostrade was held weekly, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, to benefit the Glen Cove Fire Department.

President of First City Project Joe LaPadula resurrected the event in 2023 and retooled it to raise funds for all of Glen Cove’s first responders.

This year, Autostrade filled downtown Glen Cove Village Square with live music by Ray’s No Quitter and an extravagant showcase of vintage, exotic, and ultra-luxury supercars.

Key sponsors of Autostrade 2023 included Martino Auto Concepts, Ryan Friedman Motor Cars, Rally Point East, Autostrada 187 and Rallye BMW.

Key sponsors of Autostrade 2023 included Martino Auto Concepts, Ryan Friedman Motor Cars, Rally Point East, Autostrada 187 and Rallye BMW.

“It is so wonderful that our community always rallies around the brave men and women who do so much to keep us all safe on a daily basis,” said DeRiggi-Whitton, who serves on First City’s board. “The outpouring of support for our first responders was so moving, and I thank everyone who helped to make the return of Autostrade to downtown Glen Cove such a tremendous success.”

“The aura was incredible – the vibe that evening was very energetic. We are grateful for the outpouring of support that made this event such a huge success,” LaPadula said.