Nassau County Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) was so moved by a recent visit to the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park that she is urging all employees at the Ralph Caso Executive and Legislative building to keep the not-for-profit organization in mind this Thanksgiving.

Since 1986 Ronald McDonald House has been providing families a home away from home during their child's treatment for a serious illness at local hospitals. The organization is currently undergoing an expansion campaign, adding 24 private bedrooms with expanded communal areas.

Each year the employees at One West Street gather for a friendly, non-partisan Thanksgiving luncheon to celebrate the season. This year's luncheon on November 25 includes a request by the Presiding Officer for employees to bring a donation to help the Ronald McDonald House's expansion campaign. Approximately 100 employees from One West Street attend the luncheon each year.

"It is my hope and belief that the thoughtful people of One West Street will come through for the Ronald McDonald House and make this expansion plan a reality," Jacobs said. "We should all be thankful that such a wonderful place exists for those who need its services."

Some items needed by Ronald McDonald House include bulletin boards, clock radios, comforters, lamps, pillows, rocking chairs, sheet sets (full/white), bath mats, towels (white), diapers, hairdryers, shampoo/conditioner, toothbrushes and toothpaste, cookie sheets, cutting boards, dish towels, Teflon pots and pans, tea kettles, microwaves, blenders, hand mixers, toasters/toaster ovens, dishwashing liquid, scouring pads, dust pan and brush, laundry detergent, bleach, iron and board, toys.

For a more comprehensive list, please call Jaime Strohmenger at 516-571-6227. For more information about the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island call 718-343-0500 or visit www.campaign@rmhlongisland.org.

The luncheon will be held on Tuesday, November 25 from Noon-2 p.m. in the Fifth Floor Legislative Chamber, One West Street in Mineola.