East Meadow Managers Fear Hofstra Presidential Debate Will Detract From Business

While residents say that it is exciting that the presidential debate will take place at nearby Hofstra University on Tuesday, managers with businesses on Hempstead Turnpike are afraid that it will take away some of their business.

Felix Nevarro, general manager at Friendly's, said that he is very worried that he will have absolutely no customers on Tuesday.

"It's a catch-22 because so many people are coming in and they are going to want to eat, but they won't be able to get here," he said. "Many of my employees take public transportation and the bus service will change and they may not be able to get here either."

Stephanie Skutza, assistant manger at Zorn's, said that she has the same concerns.

"I am afraid that people won't be able to get over here tomorrow because of all of the traffic," she said. "I think it is going to be a slow day."

According to police, no commercial traffic will be allowed on Hempstead Turnpike between Oak Street and Merrick Avenue between the hours of 6 a.m. and midnight on Tuesday. All lanes of Hempstead Turnpike will remain open to passenger vehicles, but motorists should expect periodic delays on Hempstead Turnpike due to road closures throughout the day, especially in the vicinity of Hofstra University’s main entrance and the Nassau Coliseum.

Kenny Harrison, manager of Cheaper Peepers, said that even though his business is not as close to Hofstra, he still has some worries.

"I really don't think that it will effect us,' but it definitely can," he said.

Even though some of the managers are concerned that the debate can negatively impact their business, they are still excited and proud that the debate will take place on Long Island.

"I think that it so cool that the president will be so close," Skutza smiled. "I remember they spoke about small businesses during the last debate and it will be interesting what they will say this time."

Harrison said that he remembers the presidential debate that took place at Hofstra University in 2008.

"Of all the places to have it, it is great that they chose Long Island again," he said.