Port Washington 2024_05_03

GUIDE TO PORT WASHINGTON

5 challenge 3 trustees in Port ed board race

Challengers tout ability to foster growth in the school district

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Eight candidates, including five challengers and three incumbents, are all vying for the Port Washington Board of Education’s three seats up for election this May, all contributing ideas to progress the district further,

President Adam Smith is running for re-election to the Port Washington Board of Education to continue the growth he said it has achieved since he joined.

Challengers Sandra Alvarez, Michael Bitalvo, Teodora Choolfaian and Joe Delerme have identified areas of growth that they say they can foster.

Smith, Trustee Adam Block and Trustee Nanette Melkonian are all running to be re-elected for another threeyear term.

Challenging the three incumbents are Alvarez, Bitalvo, Choolfaian, Delerme and Elizabeth Weisburd.

Efforts to reach Weisburd were unavailing.

Smith, who has lived in Port for the past 12 years, works for a New York-based real estate investment and development firm. He also served on the board of Temple Beth Israel in Port Washington

He and his wife have three children who attend district schools.

Smith was elected to the board in

2021, alongside Block and Melkonian.

Smith said he is running for another term to continue his contributions to the board and its efficacy as a unit.

Highlights of the board actions that Smith singled out included balancing the needs of all stakeholders, developing new programming, new staff professional developments, creating a capital reserve fund and district modernizations.

Achievements Smith said he was proud of during his tenure include the establishment of the CTE and Twilight programs, which he said has aided in increasing graduation rates, as well as the establishment of after-school programs and the full funding of the integrated co-teaching program for special education.

“I think that we’ve just been moving in the general direction of excellence that I campaigned on, and I think with another three years we can take it to the next level,” Smith said.

Looking forward, Smith said if reelected he wants to continue the school district’s offerings in antisemitism education, develop consistency between classrooms and schools, modernize transportation and upgrade facilities.

Block, a professor of public health at New York Medical College, and Melkonian, a former special education edu-

Continued on Page 56

FLOWER HILL

Schreiber High School English teacher Donna Valenti, English Department members and students conducted Shakespeare Day in the auditorium, performing skits songs and videos.

Democrats call sheriff program ‘flagrantly illegal’

BY CAMERYN OAKES

All seven Nassau County Democrat legislators called the county’s new emergency special deputy sheriff program “misguided” and

“flagrantly illegal” and that County Executive Bruce Blakeman does not have the power to enact it.

“No portion of County Law §655 authorizes you as the County Executive to establish a list of citizens and

train said citizens for the purpose of maintaining a cohort of individuals to serve as emergency special deputies,” the letter to Blakeman states. The special deputy sheriff pro-

Continued on Page 58

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PORT WASHINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

Permits halt pizza at Serra Provisions

Schreiber ranked 78th H.S. in state

BY JASMINE SELLARS

The U.S. News & World Report on the 2024 best U.S. high schools has been released with several high schools in Nassau County proudly boasting impressive rankings.

Schools are ranked based on student performance on standardized tests, graduation rates and college readiness. Among the top 50 performing schools, Manhasset Secondary High School scored as the secondbest school on Long Island, placing No. 32 in the New York metro area and No. 23 in New York State.

The school also ranked No. 111 in STEM high schools nationwide and No. 177 in the national rankings, earning an overall score of 99/100. It also received an award badge, which recognizes schools for their “educational excellence,” U.S. News said on its website.

Jericho High School came in as the No. 1 school on Long Island. The school was ranked No. 11 in New York State, No. 20 in the New York Metro area and No. 114 nationally. The school was awarded a badge and an overall score of 99.35.

Garden City High School also chalked up an impressive feat, coming in at No. 2 on Long Island, placing No. 31 in the NY Metro Area, No. 22 in New York State and No. 176 nationwide. It was also awarded a badge, scoring 99/100 overall.

The following schools placed within the top 50 in the NY Metro Area and NY State, receiving an award badge: Great Neck South High School, Great Neck North High School, The Wheatley School and Herricks High School. North Shore High School, Roslyn High School and Paul D. Schreiber Senior High School ranked within the top 100 for the metro area and statewide rankings, while Floral Park Memorial High School and Mineola High School ranked within the top 300, all of them earning an award badge as well.

Great Neck South ranked No. 4 on Long Island, No. 36 in the NY Metro Area, No. 26 in New York State. Its other rankings include placing No. 187 in STEM high schools nationwide and No. 206 in the national rankings, as well as an overall score of 98.83/100.

Continued on Page 57

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Popular Manorhaven take-out shop Serra Provisions, whose pizza was named some of the best in Long Island, shut down its pizza oven this April after prolonged permit issues with the village.

The announcement was met with customers upset and critical of the Village of Manorhaven, which Mayor John Popeleski took issue with at a Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday. He said the decision to close the pizza oven was not one made by the village as it had provided opportunities for the business to remedy its situation.

best product that we can,” the owners wrote in a Facebook post.

Serra Provisions opened on 7 Sintsink Drive East in Manorhaven in November 2021. About six months later, the business installed a pizza oven to expand its menu.

Owner Jesse Olson said the decision to start selling pizza was made to cater to its growing customer base and offer food options that were better for dinner meals. He said pizza was the best option to limit the amount of construction that would be needed.

Olson had presented his business application earlier to the village’s Board of Zoning and Appeals and followed all the required procedures. He said he was approved by the board.

He was ultimately granted final approvals by the village since it was found that their plans did not have elements needing to be approved by the other two boards, but Popeleski said it was a procedure the village had never done before.

“We just want to raise our family, run our business, and put out the

Popeleski said the business went in front of the Board of Trustees as a hardship case to get its approval to begin operations and bypass approvals of the village’s Architectural Review Board and Planning Board.

“The village has been very lenient with Serra Provisions,” Popeleski said. “We’re trying to work with them.”

In the transcript provided by the village of Olsen’s appearance before the Board of Trustees, he said that no kitchen would be installed and that it

Manorhaven to-go shop cites prolonged issues with village Continued on Page 57

TO REACH US

Great Neck South High School was ranked No. 36 in the New York Metro Area and No. 26 in New York State by U.S. News & World Report.

516-307-1045 x214 • coakes@theisland360.com New Hyde Park Herald Courier: Taylor Herzlich 516-307-1045 x215 • therzlich@theisland360.com

Manhasset Times: Cameryn Oakes 516-307-1045 x214 • coakes@theisland360.com

Roslyn Times: Taylor Herzlich 516-307-1045 x215 • therzlich@theisland360.com

516-307-1045 x206 stabakin@theisland360.com

Williston Times: Taylor Herzlich 516-307-1045 x215 • therzlich@theisland360.com

Port Washington Times: Cameryn Oakes 516-307-1045 x214 • coakes@theisland360.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ISLAND 360 ARCHIVES

The Port Washington Business Improvement District presenting a grant to Serra Provisions in 2022.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PUBLIC DOMAIN

Manorhaven OKs $5.4M budget for 2024-2025

BY CAMERYN OAKES

The Village of Manorhaven adopted its nearly $5.4 million budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year Wednesday night, which includes a tax increase of about 2.32%.

While the budget is above 2% and the state has implemented a 2% tax cap, the village’s accountant Bob Kordic previously said it does not pierce the tax cap due to qualified exemptions.

The $5,361,078 budget marks an increase of $183,580 from the current 2023-2024 budget of $5,177,498.

Mayor John Popeleski said at a previous meeting where the budget was presented that he was pleased with it.

“I’m very happy with this budget that we’re going into,” Popeleski said. “I really crunched a lot of numbers with [Kordic] and I feel like this is

a sound budget that the village can work with and be very comfortable.”

One of the biggest decreases in the budget’s revenues is in rental registrations, or permits to rent homes in the village, which is dropping by 65.06%.

In 2024-2025, the village’s budget projects revenues of $188,000 in rental registration fees in contrast to projected revenue of $538,000 at the end of the current fiscal year.

Kordic said at a previous meeting that this decline is due to it being an “off year” on rental registrations.

This waxing and waning trend is evident in the village’s budgets, which show drops in rental registration fee revenues every other fiscal year.

In 2021-2022, the village’s budget had rental registration fee revenue of $377,625, which then dropped to $118,375 in 2022-2023. This trend contin-

Continued on Page 57

The memory of Rhoda Becker lives on in Flower Hill Park

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Rhoda Becker, a strong-willed environmentalist dedicated to her village of Flower Hill, died on Feb. 7 at the age of 88.

Although her physical presence is no longer in the community, her memory will continue to live on in the form of a tree which her daughter Betsy Becker called a “dedication to her memory so she can oversee from above.”

In a celebration Friday honoring Flower Hill’s 10th anniversary of being designated a tree city, the village dedicated a crepe myrtle tree to Becker which will flower in pink, red and purple hues. It was planted centrally behind two benches also dedicated to the woman who devoted herself to her village.

“In the shade of these majestic giants and the whisper of their leaves, we find inspiration,” Mayor Randall Rosenbaum said. “Trees are silent witnesses to history, standing tall for generations, providing shelter, sustenance and oxygen – the very breath of life.”

Village Administrator Ronnie Shatzkamer said dedicating a tree to Becker was fitting for the early environmentalist, who founded multiple environmental initiatives in the village and beyond.

A 70-year resident of Flower Hill,

Rhoda Becker’s family and local officials stand around the crepe myrtle tree dedicated in her memory.

Becker dedicated much of her work to the village she called home. Shatzkamer said Becker was an integral component of the village throughout her decades in the community.

Becker went on to work in the Nassau County Clerk’s office, a job she continued into her 80s.

Her penultimate role in the village was as its first historian. Her daughter Barbara Gardner recounted the days she helped her

Continued on Page 57

Becker was a member of the village’s Board of Trustees from 1973 through 1988, where she became the first and only woman to serve as its deputy mayor. She also founded the village’s Board of Ethics and its Landmark Commission.

redesigned 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom Colonial sited on lush 85x50 property is located on prestigious Hampton Court. A warm sophistication is translated into the interior of this home which resonates with those who enjoy an elevated yet easy lifestyle. Chef’s kitchen adjoins the stunning living room and French doors lead to a magnificent, flat yard with patio. A gem!

PHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES

SUMMER IS HERE and so

D’Esposito condemns Columbia protests

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (R-Island Park) joined 13 other congressmen in a letter Friday imploring Columbia University alumni and donors to pull their donations until the university president resigns amid pro-Palestine protests on campus.

“Until Pres. Shafik resigns & honor is restored to this once great institution, it’s no lon-

ger worthy of financial or personal support,” D’Esposito wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook.

The letter called on the university to provide a review of school funding and claimed that the protests at Columbia and other schools have called for violence against Jewish students, faculty and staff.

The day before, D’Esposito joined Republi-

Rebmann Plumbing moves to Port

BY SAMUEL SCHULTZ

Rebmann Plumbing, a trusted service since 1938, has moved its offices to Port Washington.

The business was recently bought out by NorthWinds Services Group. Rebmann, now a NorthWinds partner, outgrew its last facility located in Albertson, prompting the location change to Port Washington. The new office measures about 18,000 square feet compared to the previous 3,000-square-foot space.

NorthWinds acts as a parent company for a series of HVAC and plumbing businesses to increase their brand. For Rebmann this partnership has provided them with a multitude of administrative help including a centralized human resources department and accounting help, along with a 30,000-square-foot training facility located in Rochester, N.Y.

“It gives us a lot more strength in the marketplace”, said Rebmann President Scott Ambrosio.

Along with moving its location and joining NorthWinds group, Rebmann has bought out Miller Bros. plumbing previously located in New Hyde Park. After Miller Bros. sold its property Ambrosio reached out with an opportunity for Miller Bros to join Rebmann and its resources.

“We work together as a group, it’s been a

phenomenal relationship,” said Ambrosio.

The two principals from Miller Bros are heading the plumbing division at Rebmann.The partnership also allows for previous Miller Bros clients to become potential customers of the airconditioning services that Rebmann offers.

Both businesses are family-owned with Rebmann having served the Long Island community for over 85 years. Rebmann was founded by contractor Henry Rebmann in the 1930s. After building the business from the ground up, around 30 years later he sold it to Ambrosio’s father and uncle. Scott Ambrosio and Guy Colangelo now are responsible for running this third-generation Long Island business.

Initially when Scott Ambrosio took over the business, it only offered plumbing and heating services. With one truck and one to two mechanics Ambrosio ran the business steadily for 22 years. It wasn’t until then that Rebmann Plumbing incorporate air- conditioning services into the company’s offerings.

Now with 27 employees and approximately 1,400 customers across Nassau and Suffolk county, Rebmann provides services including water filtration, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air quality control and drain cleaning.

PHOTO COURTESY OF REP. ANTHONY D’ESPOSITO

Rep. Anthony D’Esposito joins Speaker Mike Johnson on the steps of the Columbia University library.

Blank Slate wins 8 contest awards

6 newspapers sweep best column category, honored for news coverage, advertising, photography

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Blank Slate Media won eight state-wide awards at the New York Press Association Better Newspaper Contest this past weekend, including a sweep of the top three places for the best column award.

“It’s always gratifying to get recognition for all the hard work and effort that gets put into producing these papers and us doing our best job to serve the community,” Blank Slate Media publisher and editor Steven Blank said. “It’s nice when we get that recognition of that.”

The company, which publishes six weekly newspapers covering the North Shore, won awards in column writing, advertisements, photography, and news coverage at the New York Press Association conference in Saratoga Springs.

The New York Press Association represents all weekly and small dai

ly newspapers in New York State.

Blank said the awards demonstrate the talent and dedication of Blank Slate Media’s staff and its contributors.

Blank Slate Media swept the best column category, with colum -

nists Robert Scott in first place, Tom Ferraro in second place, and George Marlin in third.

Blank said the winning columnists reflect the diverse opinions that Blank Slate Media publishes, including a range of opinions on

politics, sports, education and beyond.

“It shows you what a vibrant opinion section that we have,” Blank said.

Editorial designer Yvonne Farley was awarded second place for

best small space ad. Both Farley and marketing director Susan Tabakin for best house ad/ad campaign. Roy Schneider, a Port Washington-based photographer who contributes to Blank Slate Media, was named third place in best photo

Blank Slate Media won eight awards at the New York Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest, including a sweep in the columnist category.

story. He was honored for his collection “Port Washington in Photos,” which captured a diverse array of sceneries around his community.

Former reporter Robert Pelaez, reporter Cameryn Oakes and contributing sports reporter Michael Lewis were awarded a third-place finish for best spot news coverage in their joint reporting on the deaths of Roslyn tennis stars Drew Hassenbein and Ethan Falkowitz, both 14, who died in a car accident after their vehicle was struck by an alleged drunk driver.

Blank applauded the spot news coverage immediately after the deaths of the two teens but said reporters continue to follow the story, whereas other publications’ coverage may have tapered off.

Blank Slate Media also received an honorable mention for best editorial page.

Blank Slate Media began operation in 2010 with the purchase of three newspapers – the Great Neck News, New Hyde Park Herald Courier and the Williston Times.

The company ultimately grew to six newspapers with the opening of the Manhasset Times, Roslyn Times and Port Washington Times.

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Open houses to be held on LI transmission lines project

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Community members will be able to provide feedback $3.2 billion electrical transmission line project proposed in

Long Island during a series of in-person and virtual open houses hosted through May and June. For Nassau County residents, a virtual session will be held from 6-8 p.m. on

May 23. An in-person forum will be held for North Hempstead residents at the Bryant Library in Roslyn from 7-9 p.m. on May 28.

Continued on Page 46

The Propel New York Energy project is proposing nearly 20 miles of underground electrical transmission lines through the Town of North Hempstead.

D’Esposito violated FEC law: complaint

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

A constituent in the 4th Congressional District said she filed multiple campaign finance complaints against Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (RIsland Park), including an allegation that he has subsidized more than $20,000 for his federal campaign committee.

Merrick resident Helene M., who wished to keep her last name anonymous, said she filed the complaints April 4 in an effort to inform fellow residents of the alleged violations.

“Team D’Esposito always takes all necessary steps to operate in accordance with election law, and we will vigorously challenge this desperate smear campaign led by partisans who know they can’t win at the ballot box,” Matthew Capp, campaign spokesperson, told Blank Slate Media in a statement. Helene said she filed three complaints in total to the Federal Elections Commission and the Office of Congressional Ethics.

Continued on Page 52

“[It is] reprehensible for my representative to be breaking ethics rules and I wanted…people to be made aware of it because I think it would upset a lot of people and they would pay attention more to the election coming up,” Helene said. The alleged complaint filings come ahead of the representative’s race for reelection. The Nassau County Republican Committee officially nominated D’Esposito in February as the party’s nominee in the race for the 4th Congressional District seat.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEW YORK POWER AUTHORITY

Suozzi says border bill should be next Curran, Bosworth endorse Keiserman for state Senate

BY CAMERYN OAKES

After Congress passed a $95 billion foreign aid package that delivers aid to Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific, Rep. Tom Suozzi (NY-03) said the next step is allocating funds to secure the country’s southern border.

The foreign aid package was voted on in the House of Representatives April 20 and in the Senate April 23. It passed in both chambers, with bipartisan support integral to its passage after Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana put his job on the line and brought the measure to the floor for a controversial vote.

Suozzi said this aid package “will provide long-awaited aid, including humanitarian aid, to Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific.”

The $95 billion aid package is split between the three regions, with $60.84 billion allocated to Ukraine to aid in its war with Russia, $26.38 billion for Israel and $8.12 billion for the Indo-Pacific to counter China.

Bringing the vote to the House of Representatives followed months of delays due to pushback from many of its far-right Republican members, who opposed giving aid to Ukraine.

Since the war broke out in February 2022, the United States has sent about $74 billion in aid to Ukraine. But this had stalled in 2024.

For months Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had been lobbying the United States government to deliver aid to his country amid war, but partisan opposition in Congress led months of inaction.

Continued on Page 42

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Former Nassau County Executive Laura Curran and former North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth, both Democrats, endorsed state Senate District 7 candidate Kim Keiserman, now joining a long list of local Democrats supporting the Port Washington resident.

“I’m proud to endorse Kim Keiserman in her campaign for State Senate,” former Nassau County Executive Curran said. “Kim’s commitment to our community, her steadfast values, and her willingness to take on the tough battles to protect reproductive rights, keep guns off our streets, and create a more affordable Long Island make her exactly the type of leader we need in Albany.”

“Kim Keiserman will be a dedicated State Senator and serve our communities well,” former North Hempstead Supervisor Bosworth said. “I believe she will build on the programs we started in the town for environmental protection and to combat hate and division in these very challenging times.”

Keiserman said she was gratedul for garnering both Curran’s and Bosworth’s support.

Keiserman faces Brad Schwartz in the race to replace state Sen. Jack Mar-

Former Nassau County Executive Laura Curran endorsed state Senate candidate Kim Keiserman in her bid for District 7 Democratic nomination.

tins , a Republican. Keiserman and Schwartz are the only Democrats running in the race, and the winner of the primary will face off against Martins – the only Republican running.

Schwartz, who ran in the 2018 race but dropped out before the primary against former state Sen. Anna Kaplan, is a former television editor and producer with a PhD in public policy.

Continued on Page 42

N O I N T E R E S T

I F P A I D I N F U L L W I T H I N 1 8 M O N T H S

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEISERMAN’S CAMPAIGN, CURRAN

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BY CAMERYN OAKES

Cheryl Lavenhar, the owner of Roslyn’s Knit, never expected to be in the knitting business but described it as something she rather fell into.

“It was never my plan in life, but it brings me immense pleasure,” Lavenhar said.

She also did not have a vision for how Knit might evolve, let alone foresee the celebration of being open for 20 years. Lavenhar described it as a milestone fraught with emotions.

“Coming here is what keeps me young, keeps me going,” Lavenhar said.

Roslyn’s Knit, located at 1353 Old Northern Blvd No. 3, is a local yarn supply store for various knitting and crocheting projects.

Lavenhar started working at Knit as an employee, later becoming a store partner and culminating in her current role as the sole owner.

In April, the store celebrated its 20th anniversary of being a source of yarn for local knitters and crocheters.

But that’s not all that Knit is.

Lavenhar wrapped up Knit’s mission in a single sentence: a knitting store that encourages a sense of community.

At various times throughout the week, especially on Saturday afternoons, a slew of crafters all working on different projects can be found sitting around the store’s centrally located table. For some unsuspecting customers who walk in this can be an intimidating sight – a feeling that they are disturbing some event.

But this is what Knit is, a gathering place for knitters and crocheters of all skills and walks of life, and Lavenhar assures newcomers they are never interrupting and are more than welcome to grab a seat as well.

“It’s just people here hanging out,” Lavenhar said. “It’s just people who come in and meet each other and make friendships around the table who would never meet any other way.”

“You walk in the door and people say hello to you,” Lavenhar said. “That’s a big thing to me.”

Community is an integral aspect of Knit’s business model, providing a welcoming space for individuals to not only purchase yarn but seek out guidance and assistance in the projects they then use the yarn for.

For anyone who purchases their yarn from Knit, Lavenhar said they are welcome to come into the store at any time to seek help on their knitting and crochet projects – free of charge.

“Unless you need to learn a new technique,

then we’re going to just hold your hand throughout the project,” Lavenhar said.

With a growing knitting and crocheting trend and individuals new to the craft, Lavenhar invites customers to join them around the large craft table in the center of the store. This is where they can seek help and inspiration or find a friendly person to chat with as they knit away.

Knit’s table is not just a place to seek help as you frantically try to fix a mistake, but also a place where a community of knitters and crocheters is fostered.

“I got a lovely card from one of my customers where she said she learned to be a better knitter and a better person by sitting around my table,” Lavenhar said.

But while every customer is welcomed into the store the moment they step foot inside, Lavenhar said it is also important not to be too pushy and allow the crafters to browse, shop and ask for help at their leisure.

To reach the 20-year milestone, Lavenhar said some of her success is just good ol’ luck.

But it’s staying power also can be traced to Lavenhar’s decision to cater to the customer base and foster a community that draws in customers time and time again.

Reaching its 20th anniversary is a feat, Lavenhar said, and she anticipates keeping it going until she no longer can.

While Knit has reached success, Lavenhar said its growth is not stopping here.

As new people take up the craft of knitting and crocheting, Lavenhar said she is seeking to continue bringing in new customers and offering classes that introduce newcomers to the craft.

“There’s always a new crop,” Lavenhar said. “I just want to continue to grow my community, grow my knitters, teach new people.”

Knitting together 2 decades in Roslyn Swimwear store gets lifeline in Roslyn

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Great Shapes Swimwear, a locally owned swimsuit business with prior locations in Mineola, Roslyn Heights, Merrick and New Jersey, has opened a pop-up store in Roslyn Village.

The shop is located at 17 Lumber Road around the corner from Hendrick’s Tavern.

Business owner Joel Weinberg has worked in the swimwear industry for 50 years. Now, his friend Dan Burns, a financial adviser, has partnered with him on the new Roslyn Village location.

“Joel was in Roslyn Heights and he served people in that location for over 30 years,” Burns said. “With that said, Roslyn Village is very quaint. Special. When you walk around and you see some of the houses and some of the architecture from the late 1800s, you realize you’re in a special town.”

Continued on Page 57

F.P. college student in coma after hit-and-run

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

An 18-year-old Floral Park native is in a medically induced coma after being struck by a dirt bike in a hit-and-run incident in Albany just after midnight Saturday, according to Albany police and her father.

Alexa Kropf, a freshman at University at Albany, was walking along a road with her friends very early Saturday, according to multiple reports.

Multiple witnesses said they saw a man driving a dirt bike down the road at a very fast speed while he weaved in and out of groups of people, police said.

It is illegal to operate dirt bikes on any Albany street or sidewalk, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan and Albany Police Chief Eric Hawkins said in a joint Facebook post.

The driver fled the scene after hitting the victim, throwing Kropf in the air before she

An 18-year-old college student from Floral Park native was severely injured in a hit-and-run accident Saturday morning, according to Albany police.

landed in the road several feet away from where she was struck, police said.

Officers found the victim in the road with a serious head injury and a fractured leg, police said. Kropf was treated on scene by EMTs and transferred to Albany Medical Center Hospital, where she was in critical condition, police said. The investigation remains ongoing as the driver has not Continued on Page 58

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Knitters gather around the table at Knit in Roslyn.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN BURNS

Business partners Dan Burns, left, and Joel Weinberg, right, with dog Maya, who often greets customers.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

NYU Langone heart, kidney treatment a 1st Valley Stream boy 1st in NY to get blood disease therapy

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

NYU Langone Health surgeons successfully completed the first-ever combined mechanical heart pump and genetically modified pig kidney transplant surgery in April on a 54-year-old woman with heart and kidney failure.

New Jersey-native Lisa Pisano underwent the firstever combined surgery using the transplant of a genetically-altered, non-human organ.

Prior to surgery, Pisano faced heart failure and latestage kidney disease. She required routine dialysis. And Pisano suffered from several other chronic medical conditions that caused high levels of antibodies in her body to attack human tissue. Thus, she was not eligible for heart and kidney transplants.

“All I want is the oppor-

tunity to have a better life,” Pisano said in a statement.

“After I was ruled out for a human transplant, I learned I didn’t have a lot of time left.

My doctors thought there may be a chance I could be approved to receive a geneedited pig kidney, so I discussed it with my family and my husband. He has been by my side throughout this ordeal and wants me to be better.”

So Pisano received a series of landmark, life-saving procedures from two surgical teams at NYU Langone over a course of nine days.

Surgeons first implanted a heart pump, also known as a left ventricular assist device, or LVAD, on April 12. Without the pump, doctors estimated Pisano would have had only days or weeks to live.

Continued on Page 52

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Cohen Children’s Medical Center doctors administered Zynteglo, a treatment for a rare genetic blood disease, to an 8-yearold boy from Valley Stream, making him the first patient in New York State to receive the therapy.

Yusef Ahmed made history just one month after his eighth birthday when he received Zynteglo Jan. 9, just one of a handful of patients in the United States to have the treatment.

Dr. Charles L. Schleien is chair of the Department of Pediat-

Eight-year-old Yusef Ahmed received Zynteglo at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, making him the first patient in New York State to receive the treatment.

rics at Cohen.

“It’s not often that we have the opportunity to participate in a moment of medical history,” Dr. Schleien said in a statement. “This is a wonderful achievement and a milestone in our ongoing mission to provide the best care possible. I am very proud of our team of clinicians and researchers who spent years bringing this effort to fruition.”

Ahmed was born with thalassemia, a rare condition often seen in people of Asian descent, according to Cohen. The young boy followed in the footsteps of his aunt, who also suffered from thalassemia and received crucial treatment at Cohen.

His aunt was just a child when she received bone marrow transplant surgery in 2008 at Cohen. She is now a 20-year-old college student.

But Zynteglo affords patients the opportunity to forego bone marrow transplant surgery and the draining search for a donor, according to Cohen.

Zynteglo therapy was a three-step process for Ahmed. First, doctors collected stem cells from his blood and sent them to a manufacturing site to be made into Zynteglo in 2023.

Then Ahmed underwent four days of chemotherapy starting Jan. 3. The purpose of the chemotherapy is to eliminate existing cells in the patient’s bone marrow to make room for the new Zynteglo cells.

After a two-day rest, Ahmed received Zynteglo through IV transfusion Jan. 9.

Since the transfusion, Ahmed started to produce normal red blood cells. He is now cured of the disease that was genetically transmitted to him upon birth, a sign that Zynteglo might be a viable option for more patients suffering from thalassemia in the future, according to Cohen.

Continued on Page 52

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Are taxes in Nassau too high? It depends

Nassau residents and elected officials often complain that taxes are too high.

A comparison of income, property, and sales taxes by WalletHub, a personal finance company, shows that New Yorkers pay the most in the country.

And according to SmartAsset, an online financial information company, New York City suburbs pay the highest property taxes in the nation.

But are they too high?

Not, apparently, if you are talking about education. When it comes to spending—at least on education—residents and officials always want more.

Gov. Kathy Hochul recently agreed with state legislative leaders on a $327 billion budget that included an increase of $1.3 billion in school aid from her original budget.

The original budget had called for a far more modest $800 million increase in education spending, which included an overall increase for Nassau County school districts of 4.89% in state aid.

This was on top of a $7 billion increase in state spending over the past three years and an additional $13 billion in extraordinary federal aid.

But many Long Island school districts and local elected officials were not happy. They said the spending, mostly covered by the state income tax, was not enough.

They pointed out that 40 of the 117 Long Island School Districts would see a decrease in state aid, some as much as 10%.

This was due, in part, to the proposed elimination of the state’s “hold harmless policy,” which guaranteed that every district received the same amount of state aid or more from year to year – even if school enrollment dropped.

Eighty-one percent of districts outside New York City have fewer students today than they did in 201819,” according to the Empire Center for Public Policy, a conservative think tank. “Since peaking in 1999-2000 at

2.9 million, New York’s enrollment (including charter schools) has fallen below 2.4 million to a level not seen since the early 1950s.”

In North Hempstead, school enrollment has essentially stayed the same between the 2012-313 and 2022-23 school years, but the numbers among districts have been uneven, with some districts reporting large drops and others large gains.

Among the districts seeing decreased school attendance were Carle Place at 8.9%, East Williston at 8.2%, Manhasset at 8.1%, and Sewanhaka at 6.1%.

Among the districts seeing increases were Herricks at 12.8%, Floral Park-Bellerose at 8.6%, and Mineola, at 6.1%.

In Nassau County — with its 56 school districts, 56 school superintendents and 56 school boards — enrollment was down 3.38% in the past 10 years.

But during this time, New York’s per-pupil spending was rising.

The Empire Center pointed out that New York had the highest per-pupil spending of any state as of 2021 at $26,571, almost double the national average of $14,347. Places like Texas and Florida were below $10,000 per pupil.

New York’s per-pupil spending was expected to exceed $30,000 in 2022-23. On the North Shore, many school districts spent between $35,000 and $47,000 per pupil in the 2023-2024 school year.

Still, local officials were angry when Hochul’s budget mixed increases with cuts.

“It is shameful for Gov. Hochul to propose a state budget with Draconian cuts to over 40 Long Island school districts while providing billions to pay for the ongoing migrant crisis,” Republican Long Island Congressmen Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02) and Nick LaLota (NY-01) said in a joint press release.

State Sen. Jack Martin’s (NY-07) op-ed, which appeared in Blank Slate

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Considering that opera is taught and the New York Stock Exchange floor has been replicated in North Shore school districts, this seemed a tad harsh.

But state Assembly and Senate Democrats agreed with the opponents of any cuts of state aid anywhere. They called for a minimum 3% increase in state aid for all districts.

So much for controlling state spending and high taxes. At least when it comes to education.

The three Republican congressmen did call for the state to eliminate the $2.5 billion allocated for New York City housing more than 170,000 migrants.

But this was a non-starter, with city Democrats who dominate both the Assembly and the Senate unwilling to abandon otherwise homeless men, women, and children.

The result? A state budget that includes a record $34.5 billion in school aid — a $3 billion increase over the current year.

This happened in a year when all state legislative and congressional seats are up for election. So, it is safe

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to assume that legislators of both parties believed this was supported by voters.

The same is true of local school budgets — usually the largest part of revenue for school districts.

County, town and village officials routinely tout their efforts to control spending, which can make a difference at the margins.

But the county, towns and villages only account for about one-third of the property taxes paid by residents.

The remaining two-thirds? The money that goes to schools.

School budgets are also the only budgets subject to voter approval every year.

Spending on schools and villages is constrained by a cap imposed on increases in tax levies that require a 60% vote to exceed.

Almost all budgets don’t exceed the tax cap. Almost all budgets are also approved by voters, many of whom have children who attend local schools.

As Willie Sutton, the famed robber, said when asked why he stole from banks, that’s where the money is.

Schools are much the same way when it comes to taxpayers. They are where the money is and the 56

school districts in Nassau would be a good place to look if you wanted to cut taxes.

This is not to say that voters should reject school budgets or state spending on education.

North Hempstead residents have demonstrated their support for school spending over many years by voting in favor of school budgets and calling for more state aid.

Many residents who live here decided to come to and stay in Nassau because of the high-quality education their children receive accompanied by a promise for a better future.

Residents, whether or not they have children in school, also benefit from the high property values associated with quality schools.

Voters may want to know if they are getting the most from their spending. Students in some other states have higher average test scores. Why that is would seem a fair question to ask.

But most residents appear to believe that spending on education, particularly in their community, is a good use of tax money.

So are taxes too high in Nassau County? We guess it depends on who the money is spent on.

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The five things you should do to be happy

Post-Covid-America has its challenges and its worries.

We can get inundated with stress due to income inequality, political polarization, the threat of AI, multiculturalism, the rising cost of college tuition, inflation, shame and envy. In our consumer-driven society, the new normal is anxiety, depression, hatred and paranoia. However, I bring you good news. It is possible to find happiness in PostCovid America.

All you have to do is to listen to what the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, had to say on the subject. He was the first to admit that life can be difficult if not depressing, but he outlined the best way to live a life by defining the mature defenses one ought to live by. They include the following five:

Humor: Humor makes life easier. Humor is of great value. Comedians are some of the highest paid actors on Earth. Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Carey, Woody Allen and Adam Sandler are rich because they have the ability to make us laugh. Humor is of value because it allows us to transcend pain. Freud considered humor to be mankind’s highest level defense by allowing one to discharge emotions with

individual discomfort and without hurting others. The exception to this rule was seen in the Oscars when Will Smith did not laugh at Chris Rock’s joke but instead smacked him in the face. But that is the exception to the rule. Usually, mature humor allows one to look directly at one’s pain and get beyond it.

Altruism: Altruism is charitable works and allows one to achieve pleasure by giving to others. I recall the most enjoyable Christmas I ever spent was by taking my uncle, who was brain damaged, and my aunt, who had schizophrenia, into the city to see a Broadway play and then have dinner at Tavern on the Green. I learned altruism from my father, who would always bring two dozen donuts to the club every Saturday morning so that the other golfers would munch out and enjoy them. I got into the habit of doing the same when I got older and went to conferences. I gave a talk at a psychoanalytic conference this past weekend via Zoom and I was introduced by Dr. Paul Elovitz, who ran the conference. He said: “Here is Dr. Tom Ferraro about to speak. It’s a shame we are not doing this conference faceto-face this time since Tom would

DR. TOM FERRARO

Our Town

always bring those delicious donuts for us to enjoy.”

Sublimation: Sublimation is what you are doing every time you play a sport, involve yourself in a hobby, paint a picture or plant something in the garden. It is defined as taking your basic sex or aggressive drives and converting them into a pro-social activity. In other words, instead of sleeping with your neighbor, you take up poetry. Instead of punching your brother in the face, you take up golf. Sublimation is what keeps civilization intact and what keeps us out of depression.

Suppression: Suppression is a form of stoicism or the defense that allows one to delay, postpone and put off. If one can suppress one’s fantasies about winning, you have more of a chance to stay focused and relaxed as you play. If you are able to suppress worry for a period of time, you can stay relaxed. The Asians are very good at using suppression to postpone worry or excitement. This may be due to what occurred during the Cultural Revolution or perhaps it derives from the practice of Buddhist meditation. Tiger Woods, whose mother was Thai, was a good example of an athlete who used suppression to the highest degree. He was able to suppress all thoughts during play and never choked. To give you a sense of what it feel like to be around someone who uses suppression well, I recall standing next to him on a putting green at Shinnecock Golf Club during the US Open. He was so focused that it was actually like I was not even there or was invisible.

Anticipation: This means having the ability to plan carefully and prepare for any contingencies in the future. This is what they mean by “Murphy’s Law.” Murphy was a mountaineer who realized that if you

did not plan for possible problems as you climb Mt. Everest, you will surely die if things should go wrong. Planning ahead is one of the secrets to success and a good way to find peace.

So there you have it. Freud told us many years ago if you want to find your measure of happiness in life, use humor, give to others, enjoy a hobby, suppress needless worry and plan ahead. You do those five things and you are showing mental health and maturity and you will find more happiness as well.

The secret to happiness is found through  five behaviors.

Gov. Hochul’s budget giveaways this year

After announcing a $237 billion budget deal had been reached with the state Legislature’s radical leftists, Gov. Kathy Hochul made this statement: “Each of us came to the table with really strongly held beliefs, but in the interest of our state, we pulled it together to deliver in a really collaborative way. And I will say we don’t always see that here.”

What a lot of baloney.

The only interests accommodated were those of the Public Employee Unions.

As for spending, the budget has grown by an astonishing 35% since the 2019 pre-COVID $175 billion spending plan. The state’s structural budget is now projected to be north of $16 billion.

Hochul has permitted spending to grow at an unsustainable rate despite an anemic economy that grew by only 0.7% last year—vs. 2.5% nationally — and declining revenue from the biggest source of taxes: Wall Street.

Financial services tax revenues have declined due to 5,000 industry jobs moving to low-tax states and bo-

nus payouts dropping from $42.7 billion in 2020 to $33.8 billion in 2023.

But the scary economic trends didn’t matter to Albany power brokers. As Nicole Gelinas, of the Manhattan Institute, quipped, Albany has been “obviously preparing their next round of milking, while the cow is already part way out of the barn door.”

The budget also sticks it to New York City’s taxpayers.

Mayor Eric Adams’ request that Albany pick up half the tab of the projected $12 billion in migrant costs was rejected. The budget throws him a measly bone—$2.4 billion to house, feed, and clothe over 180,000 migrants.

With commercial property and Wall Street taxes falling out of bed, the city will probably have to cut essential services to cover the costs of onerous “Sanctuary City” laws.

Albany also surrendered to NYC’s United Federation of Teachers.

While Mayor Adams’ control of NYC’s public schools has been extended for two years, his authority has been severely curtailed.

directed the city to spend an additional $1.9 billion annually to procure more classroom space and to hire more teachers to accommodate the mandated smaller class size.

Former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who convinced the Legislature in 2002 to establish mayoral control of schools, had this reaction to Albany’s actions: “It’s a shameless betrayal of the city’s nearly 1 million students that will undermine the progress the city’s schools have made and harm the next generation, leaving them without the skills they need to succeed in future careers—and leaving too many trapped in poverty and tempted by crime.”

state money reflects lawmakers’ commitment to pouring cash instead of scrutiny into the system that’s spending more than any other state….”

Another costly item buried in the budget is the pension giveaway to the public employee unions.

The “Tier 6” reform—championed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in 2012—that shored up the pension system and included benefit changes that would save state and municipal governments $113 billion over 30 years, was emasculated.

The Board of Regents—which is controlled by the state Legislature— will now run the city’s Panel for Education, not the mayor. (The panel is empowered to approve or reject union contracts.)

There’s more.

Even though the city’s school enrollment has declined by 200,000, to protect UFT jobs the Legislature has

Hochul’s budget plan to cut education aid statewide due to declining school enrollment got nowhere.

After the UFT balked, the governor not only stripped the proposal out of the budget but agreed to additional school spending. (Long Island school aid will increase by over $200 million.)

Reacting to the education budget, Ken Girardin, of the Empire Center for Public Policy noted, “The decision to keep filling empty classrooms with

“There is no justifying this giveaway, which will cost over $4 billion,” the Empire Center has noted. “It is a heist from current and future taxpayers that will push property taxes higher and diminish public services. New York employees already get more generous benefits (on top of collecting Social Security) than any private sector group.”

The budget abuses and giveaways I have described are only the tip of the fiscal iceberg.

More on Gov. Hochul’s egregious tax and spend budget in my next column.

PHOTO BY TOM FERRARO

Artificial turf must be a community decision

Last week the Board of Health in Oak Bluffs, Mass., banned the installation of artificial turf anywhere in the town. The reason was simple: The safety and integrity of the community’s water supply was deemed more important than an all-weather sports field.

Also last week, the scientific community dropped a figurative bomb on the United Nations conference in Ottawa, where delegates from around the world were negotiating a worldwide plastic treaty. The news that microscopic pieces of plastic have been found in the placentas, eyeballs and other organs of the human body turned the meeting on its head, while the oil and gas lobby worked desperately to save the plastic industry—their only remaining off-ramp as the world shuns burning fossil fuels for energy.

At first, these two events might seem unrelated, but I assure you they are not. And they portend a sea change in the way we think about artificial turf fields.

For years we have known about the terrible environmental cost of an artificial turf sports field. It’s a multi-ton plastic carpet that can never be recycled. It will be here on Earth long after everyone reading

this column is long gone. It’s made from a combination of fossil fuels and toxic chemicals, including PFAS — the “forever” chemicals that have been in the news recently because of their cancer-causing and endocrine-disrupting potential. The crumb rubber used to cushion the fields brings with it another full array of chemicals that are just as hazardous.

Young athletes are exposed to this panoply of synthetic chemicals as they inhale noxious fumes and particles from the field, absorb them through their skin when sliding or falling, or accidentally ingest them. If those same chemicals were accidentally dumped on a school field, the area would be quickly cordoned off and workers in hazmat suits would be brought in to clean up the mess.

Those chemicals don’t stay on the field, of course. As the field is groomed, during athletic play, on a windy day, or during a storm, the toxic chemicals escape into the environment where they wreak havoc on our natural world, our water and our own bodies.

But now the environmental issues associated with artificial turf are running headlong into another, even more significant problem: plastic pollution as a public health issue. The Ottawa conference,

DOUG WOOD Earth Matters

originally designed to limit the amount of plastic pollution in the world’s oceans, will instead take up the issue of plastic as a human health threat and will focus on taking steps to reduce its production.

And that brings us to the question of artificial turf fields and whose decision it should be as to whether a community wants to burden its citizens with acres of more plastic at a time when science is clearly shouting “Stop!”

Here’s what we know: tiny pieces of

plastic and their constituent chemicals are imperiling our air, our water and our bodies. They are found in the soil, the trees, and in our fruit and vegetables. They are found in fish, beef, pork, chicken and even tofu. Plastic is everywhere, including places where it can do real damage.

Here’s what we don’t know: how many chemical-laden nano-plastic particles are released off a giant plastic carpet during a football game? How many are released on a windy day, or when the field is “groomed”? How many are released from the crumb rubber used to cushion the field? (Tires are more plastic than rubber.)

How many of those nano-plastics are being ingested by young athletes, and how many are being ingested by the homeowners who live nearby? What amount of plastic particles from an artificial turf field end up in local streams or bays and the fish who swim there, and how many eventually seep into the underground aquifers that provide our drinking water?

Very soon we will all have to learn to live without plastic bottles of water. We’ll learn to use paper instead of plastic for our trash. Our take-out containers will be made not from plastic but from recycled

cardboard, and we’ll wrap our boats in canvas for the winter instead of giant sheets of white plastic.

But these good steps toward reducing our use of plastic pale against the impact of stopping even a single artificial turf field, not to mention several, as are currently being planned in our community. Tons and tons and tons of new plastic is not what any community needs right now.

While scientists race to figure out how our bodies will respond to an onslaught of foreign synthetic chemicals, some of which are known to cause serious or fatal diseases, buying acres of more plastic doesn’t seem like the responsible thing to do. And now that we know that the installation of artificial turf has community-wide, irreversible negative public health impacts as well as significant environmental costs, the most important question is, who should be empowered to make that risk-benefit decision?

This is no longer a decision that should be taken by any small group of stakeholders. This is a community-wide decision, and should take into account those who will be most affected, both by the tragic and costly environmental legacy as well as their own health; our kids.

Supreme Court looks to save Trump not women

Anyone listening to the back-toback Supreme Court sessions – first on Idaho’s rejection of the federal requirement to provide emergency health care for pregnant women and next inoculating Trump against accountability for committing fraud to overturn the election and violating the peaceful transfer of power — had to be sickened, incensed and scared.

The Christo Fascist Supreme Court majority seems to be poised to rule that women do not have the right to emergency medical care to save their health and their future fertility standing at death’s door while also facing the likely loss of their baby, too.

At the same time, they seem likely to rule that Trump, in a second term, can have his political rival assassinated, sell nuclear secrets to Putin, extort paying vital military aid to Ukraine until President Zelensky announces an investigation into his political rival, Biden (wait, that happened); take $1 million to appoint someone an ambassador; take kickbacks on foreign aid he authorizes; mount a deadly insurrection; and commit election fraud without criminal liability as long as he claims retroactively these are “official acts.”

Listening to the oral arguments in these two cases was shocking – a study in strategic, willful obliviousness to the real consequences of overturning a woman’s right to reproductive health care, the real consequences of ignoring the deadly Jan. 6 insurrection and the conspiracy that led up to it, ignoring the growing use, even normalization, of intimidation and vio-

lence as a political weapon.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh postulated that a sitting president cannot be prosecuted for breaking any law that doesn’t specifically mention “the president.”

Justices Amy Coney Barrett and John Roberts tried to exempt Trump’s actions as “official.” Justice Clarence Thomas refused to recuse himself despite the fact that his wife joined the insurrection.

Justice Neil Gorsuch said presidents would wind up routinely pardoning themselves every four years (vs. not committing a crime for which they could be prosecuted).

But Justice Samuel Alito takes the prize for absurdity, saying that presidents must be immune from prosecution or else it would “destabilize our democracy” because they would be so fearful of being prosecuted after leaving office, they would take desperate measures to stay (what only Trump among our 45 presidents did).

Just the opposite, Justice Jackson asserted. “[The realization that a president might be criminally prosecuted is] what has kept the Oval Office turning into Crime Central. But once we say ‘no criminal liability, Mr. President, you can do whatever you want,’ I’m worried that we would have a worse problem than the problem of a president feeling constrained to follow the law while he’s in office.”

“I respectfully disagree,” Trump lawyer D. John Sauer smugly retorted. Even ordering the assassination of a rival, Sauer said, “could well be an official act.”

Michael R. Dreeben, counselor to the

in fact, ineligible under the 14th Amendment.

“I’m not focused on the here and now of this case,” Kavanaugh said. “I’m very concerned about the future.”

In the case pitting the federal emergency health care law, in place since 1986, against Idaho’s extreme abortion ban, the radical justices concocted hypotheticals, theoreticals and gobblygook that would give them an excuse to nullify the preemption of federal law that has applied for decades over the recently enacted state’s abortion ban.

or she has to leave the state,” said Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar, arguing on behalf of the federal government

Even Justice Amy Coney Barrett, a religiously anti-abortion activist, showed sensitivity if not sympathy to the plight of a woman frantically coming to an Emergency Room with some pregnancy horror.

Special Counsel, countered: “Executive immunity would license a president to commit ‘bribery, treason sedition, murder’ and as in Trump’s case ‘conspiring to use fraud to overturn the results of an election and perpetuate himself in power’.”

In response to Thomas, who loves to justify egregious decisions based on twisted cherry-picking of “history and tradition,” asked for historical examples of criminally prosecuting an ex-president. Dreeban replied, “The reason there were no prior prosecutions is because there were no crimes” warranting criminal prosecution.

So desperate to give Trump a lifeline back into the presidency, the Justices ignored the facts of the case in front of them and the right of the American people to see justice done, establish safeguards for free and fair elections, and know if a candidate for president is an insurrectionist,

Justice Sonia Sotomayor cited visceral examples of women suffering sepsis and hemorrhaging due to pregnancy complications but not quite at the point of threatening their lives and a patient who was denied an abortion earlier in her pregnancy and by the time she was able to deliver, the baby died and she was forced to have a hysterectomy.

Asked whether Idaho’s ban applied in those situations, Josh Turner, Idaho’s Constitutional Litigation & Policy chief, cavalierly replied it was a case-by-case assessment and up to prosecutorial discretion whether to prosecute the doctor.

But that is the problem – doctors are too afraid of being prosecuted, of losing their license and being locked in expensive litigation, to give their patient the care they should have.

“The situation on the ground in Idaho is showing devastating consequences –women and doctors in Idaho are in an impossible situation: doctors facing a grave threat to their health but not yet death have to delay care and let her deteriorate,

But her Christo Fascist male cohorts completely ignored the woman’s health emergency. What most concerned them was spending: Could the federal government withhold its funding unless the recipient complies with its “conditions?” (Answer: yes.) And states rights: Can the federal standard preempt the state abortion ban? (Answer: yes.)

And what of the unborn child? asked Alito, who wrote the Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, ending women’s constitutional right to seek an abortion up until fetal viability. Doesn’t the doctor have an obligation to protect “the interests of the unborn child?” he asked, laying the groundwork for his ultimate goal, fetal personhood.

Prelogar countered that Alito’s reading of the statute was “erroneous” and the hospital only has a duty to stabilize the pregnant woman since the likelihood is that the fetus has no possibility of surviving.

“What Idaho is doing is waiting for women to deteriorate and suffer the lifelong health consequences with no possible upside for the fetus,” Prelogar said. “It just stacks tragedy upon tragedy.”

The conservative Supreme Court Justices in the majority can act with impunity because no one can or will stop them.

KAREN RUBIN

Considering play to keep life in perspective

The review of the Philharmonic’s performance said the cellist performed with “playful” dexterity. The review of a new book about Nixon, Kissinger, and wars in Southeast Asia said that in it “We see North, South, and West in “play” together. To take advantage of another can be “playing on fears,” a far cry from being “playful” and fiddling around.

When I performed as Joe Stoddard, the Undertaker, in the student production of “Our Town” at Adelphi, I was asked what it was like to act in a “play.”I frequently attended Adelphi athletic events and watched our teams play. When I visit my grandchildren, we play. What is “play?”

The word “play” has many definitions, but the one I emphasize here is child’s play and its importance. Play is joyful, a burst of fun. It is the voluntary engagement of the imagination. It is the spontaneous activity of children, usually absent any serious intent or adult supervision. Unlike organized sports, play is self-directed and involves kids choosing sides according to local norms. Play provides for building friendships, allows for fantasy, and requires communication. It can expose the child to di-

versity in its many forms; it can enhance empathy, i.e., putting oneself in another’s shoes. Play is essential for developing resilience, courage, cooperation, independence, and inquisitiveness. It helps build healthy bodies, active minds, and generous spirits as well as mental, physical, and emotional capabilities.

I recall pick-up games; the yo-yo; hitting tennis balls against the garage; and shooting marbles. I remember having more fun with the box a toy came in than with the toy itself; building a log cabin — partially, that is — with Uncle Harold’s prized young pine trees I had cut down. At play, I imagined I could fly; debated big issues, taking both sides, while walking across town; caught fish with a safety pin tied to a string, with a pinecone as a floater, a stone as a weight and freshly dug worms as bait.

The start of each baseball season revives memories of childhood pick-up games when as young kids we would choose sides, set the rules and arbitrate disputes. We learned teamwork and leadership, honed our skills and abilities, and developed a set of values. We learned that the sides should be equal, that everyone should play, that we could resolve our disputes without outside in-

ROBERT A. SCOTT, Ph.D.

My Turn

terference or advice and that having fun was the goal.

For those of us who are or were adult volunteers or spectators for youth sports, the start of the season also reminds us of how parental involvement and the corporate organization of children’s games have stolen some of that joy. Travel teams, all-star status, and league standings are a far cry from neighborhood fun. As a parent with children in T-Ball, I tried to restrain these efforts. As a col-

THE REAL DEAL

lege president, I enjoyed our teams and urged them to emphasize the joy of play.

I recall these and other memories of play, as a child, as a parent, and as a grandparent, and tell stories about them. I can do this because of the impressions these memories made on me, enhanced by family photographs and my mother’s poems. She wrote one she called, “Your Boy”. (Ann Waterman Scott, New England Homestead, November 8, 1947.)

Your Boy

“Have you a boy about seven years old,

Who frequently does just as he has been told,

But in spite of all effort will shape to the mold

Of a bandit?

Do you also wonder if your boy will ever

Put any speediness in his endeavor,

Although he be most self-reliant and clever,

But stubborn?

Are you on the verge of losing your mind,

Over his questions of every kind,

From “Where is heaven?” to “What is

a mind?”

And “Why is it?”

Is he now an Indian off on the run,

Then maybe a cowboy with a holster and gun,

At practically any time ready for fun, Or a movie?

Does he make pets of plain earth worms and ants;

Continually does he prattle and prance;

Outgrow all his shirts and his socks and his pants,

Or need patches?

After you’ve punished him, could you just weep,

When he says “Sorry, Mom,” before going to sleep, And signals a message you always will keep,

That he loves you?”

Word pictures and family photographs help rekindle the mental images of a child’s play. I rejoice in them all; they helped shape who I am. Encourage children to play. Support neighborhood playgrounds.

Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University

Should chemical known as BPA be canned?

We literally have become a plastic society. We eat, drink, breathe, touch and wear plastics.

There is a growing movement towards ridding our everyday products of the chemical bisphenol-A, better known as BPA, and the equally unsafe alternatives. Let’s hone in on some of the dangers so that we can try to avoid them.

In 1891 Russian chemist Aleksandr Dianin synthesized BPA in a laboratory. BPA made its debut in the 1950s when it was used to produce resilient and transparent plastics. In the 1960s the FDA approved the use of BPA in consumer products, including water bottles, baby bottles, food containers and epoxy linings for metal-based food and beverage cans.

Throughout the decades there were various studies surrounding the safety of BPA, but it wasn’t until medical doctor David Feldman, a professor at Stanford University, made a discovery about BPA in 1992 that the course of discussion regarding it changed from then on.

Feldman and his team identified a molecule leaching out of the plastic that, due to its estrogenic hormonelike properties, showed to be potentially dangerous to people who ate food out of containers made of this type of plastic.

There are BPA-Free products on store shelves that contain replacement chemicals to keep plastics soft and resilient. When a product states “BPA-

Free” on the label, it would seem to be a good thing, but what is BPA being replaced with? This is not stated on the labels.

The dilemma here is that these alternative chemicals are not only just as harmful as BPA, but can be even more toxic. BPA and substitutes BPS (Bisphenol S) and BPF (Bisphenol F) are all near identical compounds.

In evaluating the risks of BPS and BPF, researchers conclude that they both are as hormonally active as BPA. These endocrine disruptors work by mimicking hormones that occur naturally in the human body. This can produce a negative overload of hormonal activity.

Our endocrine system is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, tissue function, metabolism, sexual function and reproductive processes. So, it is not surprising that BPA and related chemicals are associated with a great number of health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

Research from Canada demonstrates that the human body does not safely metabolize or excrete BPA, BPS or BPF. In 2016, Ella Atlas, Ph.D, of Health Canada (Canada’s federal health agency), and her team published an article in Endocrinology that addressed how exposure to bisphenol S (BPS), a replacement for bisphenol A (BPA), can encourage the formation of fat cells.

The National Institute of Environ-

GARY FELDMAN The Real Deal

mental Health Sciences conducted research that reveals that these endocrine disruptors carry the greatest risk when humans are exposed during prenatal and early childhood development, and that these chemicals can cross the placental barrier, increasing the toxic load on a growing fetus. Despite extremely strong scientific evidence that BPA has a very negative effect on health, by 2013 BPA was valued at over $13 billion and higher as the years went by. So, today this family of chemicals is found in a countless number of products. From the lining in food cans to bottle caps and lids, plastic food wraps, to bottled water and soda, to personal care products. BPA is abundant along with its related chemicals in register and ATM receipts.

As Little Anthony (and The Imperials) sang, “I Think I’m Going Out of My Head.”

Until manufacturers place a higher value on our health than on profits — as consumers we can take steps to reduce our exposure to plastics and toxic chemicals of all kinds. Seek out Earth-friendly, animal-friendly products.

Eat whole foods. Processed foods are a common source of these chemicals. Go with sustainable, certified organic and GMO-free products. Always try to buy and store foods in glass.

The FDA banned BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups, but again what is it being replaced with? So use baby bottles made of glass rather than plastic. When purchasing toys for kids, avoid plastics by choosing natural materials. With summer upon us, teach your kids not to drink from garden hoses. Teflon-coated and other non-stick cookware, if heated to high temperatures, are acutely toxic to birds and can kill them, according to the Environmental Working Group and other organizations, so take heed of this warning.

Microwaved food tends to increase the amount of chemicals that are leached out from the plastics. Don’t drink hot beverages from plastic cups. Try not to use, or at least limit your use of plastic utensils and plastic coated plates.

Ask store managers to replace the new register receipts with plain paper as we had years ago, not plastic coated. When at the dentist, verify what

dental sealants are used. Bite down on sealants free of BPA, BPS and BPF.

Look for “green,” toxic-free personal care products, household cleansers (white vinegar and baking soda works well) and other products including mattresses and carpets. Replace vinyl shower curtains with fabric. Feminine hygiene products can have undisclosed ingredients. Tests suggest they may contain dioxins and petrochemical additives.

There are more natural products in the marketplace. Also, opt for fragrance-free products. Those great smelling fragrances contain dozens of toxic chemicals. This also includes scented candles.

A mindful, and toxic-free people give birth to a healthier generation that also cherishes their first mother –Mother Earth. Stay safe.

Gary Feldman garyteach1@gmail.com

Gary Feldman was an innovator in the nutritional supplement retail field with a first-of- -its-kind catalog of all vegetarian name-brand supplements and cruelty-free personal care products, and did extensive research for customers. Queens Library System Green Initiative. Continuing Ed Instructor: Great Neck Adult Program, Queensborough Community College, Port Washington Public Schools. Contributing columnist: Litmor Publications, Anton Community Newspapers, The Island Now. Local Hero: Great Neck Patch. NYS Assembly Citation.

Melkonian seeks re-election to Port school board

Board of Education Trustee Nanette Melkonian and her husband, Matt, moved their family to Port Washington in 2000.

Nanette and Matt’s three children all attended the Port Washington schools and were involved in a wide range of programming, including the arts, athletics, PEP, Research, and the Integrated Co-Teaching Program.

In her 30-year career as a parent, teacher, and advocate, Nanette has established connections across the Port Washington school district’s many constituencies and built a reputation as a listener who is willing to challenge the status quo.

She consistently demonstrates the ability to build community and consensus by researching and understanding the issues facing our public schools.

Prior to raising her family, Nanette was an elementary educator in the public schools and a special educator at the elementary, secondary and post-secondary level.

Nanette’s teaching and classroom experience involved a range of populations, needing a variety of services, including regular classroom, integrated co-teaching, secondary level resource room, and support services for students

at the college level.

As a parent, Nanette’s experience and involvement in public education broadened to include volunteering as an educator in the Parent Resource Center’s Outreach Program, and then as a member of the Parent Education Committee with the Guggenheim HSA.

In 2015, Nanette grew concerned with state and national policies that placed an undue emphasis on highstakes testing rather than educational best practices and joined forces with other parent leaders to co-found Port Washington Advocates for Public Education, a grassroots community group dedicated to researching and providing information on education issues relevant to the Port Washington school district.

Nanette continued her public education advocacy, serving for three years as co-president of AAdvocacy for Gifted and Talented Education, and as a member of the Parents’ Council. Nanette has also served on a variety of district hiring committees and as a member of the district’s Vision and Mission Committee.

During Nanette’s current term as a school board member, she has represented our community in a variety of ways, asking the foundational question,

“What are we doing well as a district, and how can we grow?”

She has chaired the Board of Education Curriculum Committee, focusing on important topics that have included literacy, AI, PEP, and college admissions.

As a member of the Policy Committee, Nanette utilized her experience and critical thought lens to help draft new district policies including grading, homework, and equity and inclusivity.

Nanette has also served as an integral member of the District’s Guidance Advi-

sory committee, the District’s DEI committee and the Nassau BOCES Budget Review committee.

She has prioritized professional development for faculty and staff, language access for all BOE meetings, translation of district policies, the return of the ICT program, and introduced student voice through monthly updates/ insights at BOE meetings.

In addition, she supported an analysis of services for our students with disabilities, sensory-friendly theater performances, recycling initiatives, exit interviews of students and retirees, board and community access to Professional Growth and Curriculum Development reports, programming for at-risk high school students, and a study of our District’s culture and climate.

Furthermore, Nanette has proudly served as a BOE liaison with community organizations representing underserved students and families.

While this is notan exhaustive list, it encapsulates Nanette’s approach to strengthening our schools, with a focus on educational excellence, for all learners and families.

Nanette maintains that with knowledgeable and diligent leadership on the Board of Education, a commitment to

child-centered educational practices, and our talented and inspiring staff, Port’s future is bright.

She welcomes a second term to build upon her work advancing professional development in a variety of areas, including literacy, enhancing services for students with disabilities, and prioritizing student and staff mental health.

Additionally, Nanette will continue to focus on communication, consistency, and school culture and climate while recognizing the challenges of budget constraints in this economic environment.

Nanette seeks a second term as BOE Trustee as she believes that robust public schools are a pillar of our democracy that have the capacity to inspire life-long learners and citizens of the world.

She would like to continue to use her experience and knowledge to nurture the next generation of students and families in the Port Washington Schools.

For more information about Nanette’s campaign, please email her at nan4BOE@gmail.com.

To join Nanette’s campaign, follow her Facebook page @Re-elect Nanette Melkonian for Port Washington BOE.

Hochul’s plan to shut down illegal cannabis sales

In the fight against illicit cannabis sales, Governor Hochul’s recent budget plan marks a significant step forward for communities across New York, including here on Long Island. As President & Co-Founder of the Long Island Cannabis Coalition (LICC), I commend this crucial move towards ensuring a safer and more responsible cannabis industry.

At LICC, our mission is clear: to advocate for the growth of a responsible cannabis industry throughout Long Island by connecting local communities and mu-

nicipal leadership, while creating awareness through continuous educational endeavors. Our membership, consisting of licensed operators and cannabis business professionals, is committed to creating a unified industry that benefits both consumers and the communities we serve.

Long Island is no stranger to the cannabis community, boasting one of the most concentrated cannabis communities in the U.S. for medical and recreational use. LICC provides a platform for consumers, decision-makers, and community

stakeholders to understand the role of cannabis as plant medicine and a powerful enterprise.

Governor Hochul’s decision to empower the Office of Cannabis Management to padlock illicit businesses for a full year, alongside allowing local governments to enforce padlock orders, sends a clear message: illegal cannabis operations will not be tolerated. Additionally, establishing fines for landlords who knowingly rent to unlicensed cannabis retailers further strengthens our efforts to combat il-

licit sales.

Throughout New York and especially on Long Island, we appreciate the governor’s commitment to take action against unlicensed operators. The steps taken today will help reign in the illicit market that has thrived until now. Illegal cannabis stores are unregulated, unsafe, and directly interfere with the success of legal cannabis dispensaries. Having the OCM work with local governments to shut down these shops is common sense legislation that is long overdue.

As we move forward,we know there is more work to be done and the LICC remains committed to working with Governor Hochul and other officials to ensure that Long Island’s cannabis industry continues to grow responsibly and sustainably. Together, we can create a safer, more vibrant community.

Gahrey Ovalle Long Island Cannabis Coalition President & Co-Founder Brentwood

Mix and match on Manhasset Isle’s (C-1) District

On March 8 I saw an online article in the Port Washington Times, “Manorhaven blows up over Property”, dealing with a new construction project in Manhasset Isle’s Commercial (C-1) District at 12-20 Matinecock Ave. It appears that the same circus-type atmosphere at the Feb. 28 B.O.T. meeting, similar to the May 23, 2023 Board of Trustees meeting, still continues with people yelling and screaming from the floor without being acknowledged by the mayor. It is no wonder why the court recorder was beside herself not being able to keep up with the uncontrolled, indiscriminate comments flying around the room. It is also easy to see why hardly any of our residents attend these raucous meetings or better yet have no interest in serving on our various Village Boards.

At the May 23 meeting the four trustees challenged the mayor with various resolutions pretty much similar to the way

the mayor and other three trustees challenged their newest trustee, Jeff Stone, as he apparently asked for clarification on the development at 12-20 Matinecock Ave. where it appears local builders are mixing and matching two of our existing zoning laws with the approval of the Board of Trustees back in March 2023.

If our Manhasset Isle residents and our Board of Trustees have read Chapter 155-18, they might have noticed that nowhere in this law does it mention building homes and apartments but rather marinas, yacht clubs, public parklands, etc.

During the building moratorium and my tenure on the Waterfront Committee for almost 18 months during my second term as trustee, there was much concern appropriately displayed by the residents of Manhasset Isle at our numerous committee and village meetings.

It is quite ironic that during the moratorium on building along the waterfront in the C-1 District that then Trustee

Popeleski, myself, and the entire Board of Trustees assured the residents that there would not be any construction along Matinecock Avenue in the C-1 District.

Now let’s move forward a few years later where we find that a local builder, who purchased a working marina at 1220 Matinecock Ave. some years back, is now in the process of building apartments there under the B.O.L.D. for Mixed Use/ Live Work Apartments section under Chapter 155.20.1 of our Manorhaven Village Code.

The owner has already had the existing buildings on this marina torn down and removed which appears to contradict the purpose of the B.O.L.D. law which originally allowed for the construction of 2d story apartments over existing commercial buildings, especially along Manorhaven Blvd. and Sintsink Drive East.

More importantly, our March 2023 Board of Trustees, where they granted

permission for this project, needed to pay closer attention to Chapter 155.20.1C(3) of B.O.L.D. which specifically states, “any existing industrial uses…….and any uses where toxic chemicals are stored shall not be permitted under B.O.L.D.”

This property at 12-20 Matinecock Avenue had been used as a marina/boat yard for at least 50 or more years and may possibly have contaminants in the soil or groundwater from toxic fluids and chemicals used over all those years in this type of business.

In that same March 2023 article, “The project architect said during the public hearing that site plans are within the village’s code and do not require any variances!”

Our Village should rely on the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation being involved with any possible building along the Manhasset Bay waterfront while having proper soil and groundwater testing conducted.

Thypin Steel, just down the street, made every effort during a 14-year period to clean up its property with the help and guidance of the N.Y.S.D.E.C and the Nassau County Board of Health and the health of future residents should be paramount.

One final note, of utmost importance, is how our 60+-year-old, 14-inch diameter, one-mile-long sewer line on Pequot Avenue will be capable of handling another 60 plus toilets, showers, sinks, etc. from added apartments at the two ongoing projects on Manhasset Isle.

We definitely, now more than ever, need village officials who worry more about the future of our village and also its sewer capabilities instead of where the next project may be built.

Nanette Melkonian

Ken Kraft Manorhaven Trustee 2016-2020

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The Fall 2024 Season at the Staller Center includes an extensive assortment of astounding artists and performances, including countless musicians, comedy, jazz, dance performances, and family experiences.

Season highlights include Wanda Sykes, Renée Elise Goldsberry, John Pizzarelli, Malevo, Cirque Kalabanté: Afrique en Cirque, Anthony Nunziata, and more! Tickets for the Fall 2024 Season will be available on May 3 at stallercenter.com.

Kicking off the Fall 2024 season on September 15 is the Emerson Legacy Concert. After 47 years of enthralling audiences and nearly 100 sold-out shows at the Staller Center, the Emerson String Quartet bid the world farewell in October 2023. Now, former Emerson String Quartet members Phil Setzer, violin, and David Finckel, cello, join the acclaimed pianist Wu Han in their exceptional Han-Setzer-Finckel Trio in an evening of Haydn, Beethoven, and Dvorak.

On Sept. 21, Get ready to experience the sensational talent of Renée Elise Goldsberry live on stage. Known for her Tony Awardwinning role as Angelica Schuyler in the Broadway smash hit “Hamilton,” Goldsberry’s star power shines brightly from Broadway to the big screen.

But that’s not all. Fans of her earlier Broadway triumphs in Rent and “The Color Purple” know that Goldsberry brings unmatched energy and passion to every performance.

Whether she’s belting out showstopping numbers or captivating audiences with her star power, Goldsberry always leaves a lasting impression. And let’s not forget her starring television roles in “Altered Carbon: and “The Good Wife”, and now Netflix’s latest hit, “Girls5Eva.”

Don’t miss your chance to witness this powerhouse performer in action. Grab your tickets now for unforgettable entertainment with Renée Elise Goldsberry!

Closing out the month of September, enjoy John Pizzarelli: Stage & Screen on Sept. 28! This fall, John Pizzarelli returns to the Recital Hall to commemorate four decades of his

Staller Center’s fall season offers wide variety of performers YOUR GUIDE TO THE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING

WWW.THEISLAND360.COM

renowned musical legacy.

Hailed by the Boston Globe for “reinvigorating the Great American Songbook and re-popularizing Jazz,”

The Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist brings his new album, “Stage & Screen,” to the Staller Center. Exploring some of the most immortal songs of the past century from Broadway and the silver screen, “Stage & Screen” repackages these standards with Pizarelli’s signature blend of vibrant jazz and Sinatra-esque vocals.

Mark your calendars for a family adventure on Oct. 14 for a live sing-along screening of the beloved Disney Film Encanto, featuring a live orchestra performing the musical score.

An exceptional on-stage Latin Band will be performing the multiGrammy-winning musical score while you sing along. Enjoy film favorites, including “Surface Pressure,” “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” and more, during this energetic and family-fun show that is not to be missed!

Following up that weekend is a hysterical comedy performance by Emmy-winning actress, writer, and stand-up comedian Wanda Sykes on Oct. 18. WANDA SYKES is an Emmywinning stand-up comic, writer, actress, and producer who has entertained audiences for over 20 years. She has ranked among Entertainment Weekly’s “25 Funniest People in America,” her peers have called her “one of the funniest stand-up comics” in the field.

With her first major tour in six years, Fourteen-time Emmy nominee Wanda Sykes brings her sharp wit, observational humor, and fearless commentary on what matters most to Staller’s Main Stage. Upheaving the every day with her irreverent takes, Sykes’ performances are equally thought-provoking and tearinducing, uproariously funny.

Up next on Oct. 26, a thrilling dance performance by the modernized dance group Malevo, featuring passionate drumming, explosive dance, and fiery theatrics – Argen-

tina’s answer to Stomp and Riverdance.

Highly skilled dancers execute zapateo, similar to tap dance, in fastpaced, adrenaline-fueled routines with boleadoras or throwing weapons. Meanwhile, musicians pound out a blend of traditional and avantgarde percussion with impressive precision that will delight both the eyes and ears. Malevo was named “Cultural Ambassador to the National Identity of Argentina” and boasts a rich history of performances all over the globe.

Their credits include special performances with Latin pop sensation Ricky Martin and Cirque du Soleil, a year-long residency at Universal Studios Japan, and a notable achievement as a semi-finalist on the hit TV show America’s Got Talent. Backed by a live band, MALEVO is a fiery, pulsating South American sensation slaying audiences across the globe.

November brings an exciting variety of talent to the Staller Main Stage, beginning with Cirque Kala-

banté: Afrique en Cirque on Nov. 9! Afrique en Cirque is inspired by daily life in Guinea and shares African culture’s beauty, youth, and artistry. Beyond its gorgeous scenery, dazzling costumes, and precise staging, this colorful show will make any theater vibrate with energy. Witness acrobats execute gravity-defying stunts and human pyramids, accompanied by live Afro-Jazz, percussion, and kora sounds. Artistic Director Yamoussa Bangoura creates a show that radiates the diversity of traditional African arts and the virtuosity of the modern North American circus performance. Lovers of Jazz, Broadway, and Tap will come together on Nov. 13 for Some Enchanted Evening with Stella Cole. The viral sensation Stella Katherine Cole pairs up with Postmodern Jukebox’s Benny Benack III and tap-dancing star Jabu Graybeal to perform Jazz-inspired selections of Broadway Hits from the Golden Age to today.

Continued on Page 37

Iranian traditional music by Chakavak Ensemble

Great Neck Library is hosting a Sunday musical performance Iranian Traditional Music by The Chakavak Ensemble on Sunday, May 5 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Main Library, 159 Bayview Avenue in Great Neck. Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Iranian

music featuring The Chakavak Ensemble’s founding members, Bahrain Sadeghian (vocals) and Shahla Nikfal (qanun).

The ensemble was formed in 1987 to advocate and offer an understanding of traditional Persian music to the tri-state area and has become more successful than ever.

Boasting performances in New York City’s Town Hall and Carnegie Hall, the ensemble has contributed significantly to the Persian music culture on the East Coast. It has also worked extensively with the World Music Institute, the Metropolitan Museum, and the American Museum of Natural History to create programming that showcases and teaches audiences about traditional Persian culture and music, among many other venues.

Registration is required. Great Neck Library cardholders and residents have priority for seating. Sign up online, in-person, or via phone beginning April 25 at 10 a.m.

Non-residents are welcome as walk-ins, as space allows. For more information, please contact the Great Neck Library at (516) 466-8055 or email adultprogramming@greatnecklibrary. org.

Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin

Orchestrations by Larry Moore

Book by Herbert & Dorothy Fields As Revised by Peter Stone

‘Spring

Fling’ on Port’s historic Mill Pond

Visiting the Dodge Homestead in Port Washington is a lot like leaping back in time – starting with the year 1721. That’s when Thomas Dodge first built the Dutch Colonial farmhouse, overlooking both historic Mill Pond and Manhasset Bay.

The farmhouse – which served as home to seven generations of Dodge family members up until 1993 – has been lovingly maintained by the Cow Neck Peninsula Historical Society (CNPHS).

The Historical Society is opening the Dodge House doors to the community on Saturday, May 11, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for its annual Dodge Homestead Spring Fling. The

family-friendly afternoon features tours of the grounds and stories about the people who lived there.

Of course, a lot has changed since Thomas Dodge first built the farmhouse on the 54 acres of land he purchased for his family home.

The land, for example, was farmed until 1898, with produce shipped to the New York market.

Over time, the Dodge children attended the Sands Point School up the hill, which offered a view of the Dodge House. The Mill Pond became an important community center, with a blacksmith, two tidal mills, a bicycle shop with a courtroom upstairs, a general

store and post office, a blacksmith, a butcher, and even a hotel.

The Historical Society will share insights about the Dodge Family and how life has transformed since Thomas Dodge’s day.

During the Spring Fling, the Society will lead a guided walk around Mill Pond at 2 p.m. when visitors can learn about the tidal mills, early settlers, our first schoolhouse and the first church in Port Washington.

The afternoon will feature the music of the Society’s Front Porch Players, as well as an opportunity to meet Ross, the ground’s beekeeper, who will be discussing the Homestead’s honey bees.

And yes, Dodge Homestead honey will be available for sale, as well as Port Washington “circa 1644” tee shirts, home-baked goods, jewelry, brand new CNPHS Journals and books about old Port Washington, and even some unique attic treasures. And new this year, there will be Story Time for the little ones.

The Dodge House is located at 58 Harbor Road(at the head of the Mill Pond), and there is free parking along the north side of Mill Pond. For more information, visitwww. cowneck.org.

Admission to the Spring Fling is free.

Shahla Nikfal and Bahram Sadeghian

PHOTO COURTESY OF COW NECK PENINSULA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Dodge Homestead dates back to 1721.

‘Servants of the Gilded Age’ at Trinity Church

Step into the world of the servants during New York’s Gilded Age as Esther Crain discusses her second book, “The Gilded Age in New York, 1870-1910” at a presentation of the Roslyn Landmark Society and Trinity Episcopal Church.

The book and lecture take a deep dive into the Gilded Age — exploring what day-to-day life was like in an age of posh Fifth Avenue mansions and crowded tenements; of deep political corruption and a widening gap between rich and poor.

Rarely seen photographs and illustrations help tell the story of how New York transformed from a small-scale post-Civil War city lit by gas and powered by horses into a mighty metropolis of skyscrapers, subways, blazing electric light, and rapid social change.

Come in person to the Trinity Episcopal Church on Sunday, May 19 at 3 p.m. at 1579 Northern Boulevard (25A) in Roslyn. Or join via Zoom.

Call the Roslyn Landmark Society at 516625-4363 or visit our website to RSVP!

Rainforest butterflies at The Bryant Library

View spectacular butterfly and moth displays from the world’s tropical rainforests: Central America, Amazon, Africa, Southeast Asia and New Guinea, many collected by the presenter, Steve Fratello on Tuesday, April 30 at 6:30 pm at The Bryant Library at 2 Paper Mill Road in Roslyn.

Fratello has explored the world’s tropical rainforests for approximately 1,000 days and led a half dozen major scientific expeditions for the Smithsonian and Field Museums.

This program is for adults, but families are welcome.

Learn about and discuss science concepts including camouflage, mimicry, insect anatomy, metamorphosis, tropical climate.

PHOTO BY STEVE FRATELLO

New food fest, car show on Mineola’s spring menu

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

The Village of Mineola is hosting a slew of exciting new events in May and June, from artisan markets to foodie festivals.

All of the new events are open to everyone, not just village residents, and are free to attend.

The village will hold two wellness and artisan markets at the village community center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 5 and June 2.

These markets will feature local holistic vendors. There will be some prepackaged food items and supplements for sale.

“It’s sort of a take on a farmer’s market if you will, but focused on self-care products,” said Grace Kelly, an event planner working on the new village events.

Mineola will welcome a food truck festival May 18 with a June 1 rain date. The festival will be held at the Wilson Park parking lot from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

“That’s a big one,” Kelly said. “We have over 50 vendors registered for the foodie festival, so it’s not just food trucks.”

While there will be a large variety of food trucks at the festival, the street fair will also feature booths from local brick and mortar establishments, chefs and private caterers.

The village will hold an arts and automobile show June 15 with a

June 22 rain date. The show will be held at Morgan Parc at 199 Second St. from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

“It’s not like a typical car show,” Kelly said. “It’s more like a vehicle exhibition.”

The arts and automobile show will feature around 75 exotic and custom cars that have been handpicked for the show. Coca-Cola is involved with the set-up of the arts and automobile show, which will

feature a unique car collection including Lamborghinis from the early 1980s.

The vacant retail space in Morgan Parc will be converted into an art gallery for the day. Artists will

be present at the show, with some painting on cars or painting large murals live.

Food will be provided by local restaurants.

The Village of Mineola will also be holding its traditional events.

The Memorial Day Parade is set for May 27 at 11 a.m. on Jericho Turnpike. The ceremony will be held in Mineola Memorial Park.

The Portugal Day Flag Raising will be June 7 at 5 p.m. in front of the Mineola Fire Department headquarters. The Portuguese Carnival will be held from June 7 to June 9 at the Wilson Park parking lot. The Portugal Day Parade will be held at 11 a.m. on June 9. These events are organized by the Portuguese society of Mineola.

Shakespeare in the Park will take place June 15 at 5 p.m. at the Mineola Memorial Park Amphitheater where guests can watch a performance of “Hamlet.”

Kelly said village residents should stay tuned for more exciting new events this fall and winter.

The village will hold a fall harvest festival in October. Then in the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, there will be a Christmas village festival every weekend. This festival will be similar to the holiday village at Bryant Park in Manhattan, with food vendors, artisans and heated booths.

FOR A LIMITED TIME

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISLAND 360 ARCHIVES

The 2019 Mineola Street Fair.

Unique Mother’s Day gift ideas

Mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, and many more remarkable women often work tirelessly and without fanfare to provide for their families. Even though they may deserve to be recognized throughout the year, moms enjoy a special day nestled within the month of May when children, spouses and others celebrate Mother’s Day.

Many people give heartfelt gifts on Mother’s Day to express their love for the mothers in their lives. The perfect gift may focus on Mom’s interests and the things that make her truly happy. With that in mind, the following shopping tips can help anyone find the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

· Explore spa packages. What mother won’t benefit from some rest and relaxation with a little pampering thrown in? Salons and massage therapists typically put together Mother’s Day packages that cater to mothers. Packages may include massages, facials, hair treatments, manicures, and pedicures. Gift-givers can customize the services depending on their budgets.

· Dining out can be a treat. A meal at a favorite restaurant can be a welcome change from kitchen duty. Mother’s Day is a busy day for restaurants, many of which have limited menus to better handle the crowds. As a result, if dining out on Mother’s Day, Mom may not get the full menu she desires. To ensure mothers have full menus at their disposal, gift givers

can cook a meal at home on Mother’s Day and then choose another day of the week to enjoy a meal in an upscale restaurant.

· Schedule a paint and sip. A paint and sip session is a unique gift. A session is typically two hours and includes step-by-step instructions. Patrons are encouraged to bring snacks and their favorite beverages. With the right planning, well-intentioned children can turn the evening into a “ladies night out” and encourage other moms to join in the fun. Or the entire family can paint masterpieces together.

· Give tickets to a show or sporting event. Whether Mom is a sports fan or she prefers the theater or live music, event tickets can make a wonderful gift. Unique gift ideas include tickets to Cirque du Soleil, Shen Yun or a Broadway play.

· Give the gift of wine tasting. Wineries can be found across the country and frequently open their doors to wine tastings and wine pairing events. A Mother’s Day wine tasting can be special for the entire family and support local businesses. Check the vineyard’s rules on guests. Many times those under 21 can attend but will not be permitted to consume wine, though other refreshments may be available.

Mother’s Day offers the perfect opportunity to lavish attention on special women. Gifts that cater to Mom’s interests will make the biggest splash.

Supporting Long Island’s small businesses

National Small Business Week is April 28–May 4.

Just because a business is small doesn’t mean it isn’t important. The small businesses on our island are 50% of our economy. These businesses are part of the fabric of our communities. They’re vital. We’ve been proudly supporting our small businesses since 2014 with cost-saving programs and services. Show your support, too, by shopping locally during Small Business Week (and all year long). It’s no small thing to let them know they matter.

Our Business First Program offers many ways to help Long Island’s small businesses, including:

• Free energy assessments

• Rebates for energy-saving improvements

• Incentives for renovating commercial spaces in struggling business districts

• Bill credits for occupying vacant downtown spaces

• Grants for outdoor beautification in downtown areas

• Business Solutions Center hotline (800-966-4818)

• Business planning and customized solutions

Mother’s Day

At The Douglaston Manor Sunday, May 12, 2024

Seatings: 12, 1 :30 AND 3PM

UPON ARRIVAL: TUSCAN ANTIPASTO TABLE

Herb Grilled Veggies / Mushrooms / Artichokes

Roasted Red Peppers / Salami / Fresh Housemade Focaccia

Cheese Board: Swiss / Cheddar / Fontina / Olive Medley

Surprise mom with a special dessert in her honor

Mothers selflessly devote themselves to their children from infancy into adulthood. A mother’s love never wanes, and she’s always ready and willing to step in and put her children first.

Mother’s Day is a great chance for men, women and children to honor the special women in their lives. Delicious homemade treats can show mothers just how much they’re appreciated and adored. Try this tasty recipe for “Cold Mango Soufflés Topped with Toasted Coconut” from “The Complete Mexican, South American & Caribbean Cookbook” (Metro Books) by Jane Milton, Jenni Fleetwood and Marina Filippelli.

Cold Mango Soufflés Topped With Toasted Coconut (Makes 4)

4 small mangoes, peeled, pitted and chopped

2 tablespoons water

Place a few pieces of mango in the base of each of four 2/3-cup ramekins. Wrap a creased collar of nonstick parchment paper around the outside of each dish, extending well above the rim. Secure with adhesive tape, then tie tightly with string.

Pour the water into a small heatproof bowl and sprinkle the gelatine over the surface. Leave for 5 minutes or until spongy. Place the bowl in a pan of hot water, stirring occasionally, until the gelatine has dissolved.

Meanwhile, whisk the egg yolks with the superfine sugar and milk in another heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water and continue to whisk until the mixture is thick and frothy. Remove from the heat and continue whisking until the mixture cools. Whisk in the liquid gelatine.

Puree the remaining mango pieces in a food processor or blender, then fold the puree into the egg yolk mixture with the orange rind. Set the mixture aside until starting to thicken.

Bruschetta / Crostini / Fusilli Salad / Fresh Mozzarella

1 tablespoon powdered gelatine

2 egg yolks

YOUR BUFFET STARTS WITH

Fresh Garden Salad Cucumbers / Tomato / Balsamic Baby Arugula

Salad roasted yellow peppers / Citrus Vinaigrette

Caesar Salad / Romaine / Shaved Parmigiano / Croutons

Housemade Focaccia Bread/ Butter / Hot Dinner Rolls

CARVING STATION***

gravies / sauces / condiments Italian Roast Beef & Slow Roasted Turkey Breast

1/2 cup superfine sugar

1/2 cup milk

1 1/4 cups heavy cream

Grated rind of one orange

Toasted flaked or coarsely shredded coconut, to decorate

Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Reserve 4 tablespoons and fold the rest into the mango mixture. Spoon into the ramekins until the mixture is 1 inch above the rim of each dish. Chill for 3 to 4 hours, or until set.

Carefully remove the paper collars from the soufflés. Spoon a little of the reserved cream on top of each soufflé and decorate with some toasted flaked or coarsely shredded coconut.

BUFFET

Crab Stuffed Sea Bass/ citrus lime sauce

Chicken Marsala / Mushrooms & Rosemary

Chicken Francese / Lightly Breaded, White Wine & Lemon Sauce

Mac~n~Cheese / crisp hickory smoked bacon, cheddar, herbed panko

Cavatelli Bolognese / classic meat sauce

Baked Eggplant Rotolo/Ricotta, Mozzarella & Pomodoro

~ Herb Roasted Potatoes / Spring Vegetables

DESSERT TABLE

Cannoli / Italian Pastries / Lemon Chiffon Cake House

Baked Cookies / Chocolate Cake

ADULTS : $68. PER PERSON +SALES TAX

CHILDREN (10 YRS AND UNDER) : $45.00 PER CHILD + TAX

5% DISCOUNT FOR PARTIES OF 50 OR MORE

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS: 718 224-8787

Commonwealth Blvd, Queens, NY 11362 www.thedouglastonmanor.com

Mother’s Day Brunch Menu

ASSORTED BREADS & BREAKFAST PASTRIES

Croissants

Muffins

Bagels

Assorted Breads

Sweet Butter

Assorted Preserves

BREAKFAST DISPLAY

Scrambled Farm Fresh Eggs

French Toast

Sausage

Bacon

Home Fries

SEAFOOD STATION

Smoked Salmon

Smoked Whitefish

Seafood Pasta

ASIAN STATION

Bang Bang Shrimp

Bourbon Orange Chicken

Pork Short Ribs

Vegetable Fried Rice

SALAD BAR

Asian Caesar Salad

Cherry Tomatoes & Mozzarella Cheese

Mixed Green Salad

HOT ENTRÉES

Penne Alla Sake

Chicken Teriyaki

Roasted Red Bliss Potatoes

String Beans with Sweet Onions

CARVING STATION

Roasted Prime Rib

Fri 5/03

Fleetwood Macked

The Ultimate Tribute to Fleetwood Mac:

My Fathers Place welcomes back

Fleetwood Macked @ 7pm

My Father's Place at The Roslyn Hotel, 3 Pratt Blvd., Glen Cove

Strange Parade NY:

Debut at Nostalgia @ 7pm Nostalgia, 380 N Wantagh Ave, Bethpage

Sat 5/04

Derby Bourbon Festival @ 3pm / $59-$99 Mulcahy's, Wantagh

Zac Brown Tribute Band @ 9pm / $15

Mulcahy's, Wantagh

Poetica Musica: Bach and Way Beyond @ 8pm / $30

Immerse yourself in a wonderful combination of sounds while explor‐ing various musical styles as Poetica Mu‐sica presents a concert entitled Bach and Way Beyond. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old West‐bury Road, Old West‐bury. mramirez@old westburygardens.org, 516-333-0048

Dalton & the Sheriffs @ 9:30pm / $15 Spotlight at The Paramount, Huntington

Rhiannon's Run 5K Run/Walk @ 10am / $25 Santapogue Elementary School, 1130 Herzel Blvd, West Babylon. events@elite feats.com

Graztopia Live@Mr. Beery’s @ 2pm

Mr. Beery's, 4019 Hempstead Tpke, Bethpage

Daniel Sloss: Can't @ 7pm / $29.50-$59.50 The Paramount, Huntington

A Special Gift for

Mom Awaits at our Ceramics Workshop @ 1pm

Mother’s Day is right around the corner. This year, give her some‐thing special! Gold Coast Arts Center, 113 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck. info@gold coastarts.org, 516-8292570

NCMA Exhibition Tour with Guest Curator, Christopher Pusey @ 3pm / $15

Urban Art Evolution: NCMA Exhibition Tour with Guest Curator, Christopher Pusey Nas‐sau County Museum of Art, One Museum Drive, Roslyn. events@nas saumuseum.org, 516484-9338

Mon 5/06

LA Gran Banda @ 9pm El Guadalajara Grill, 46 Fulton ave., West Hempstead

AMC 05 Adult Tuesday Golf Clinic 10am @ 10am / $169 May 7th - Jun 4th Eisenhower Park driving range, Eisenhower park, East Meadow. 516-222-2620

Wed 5/08

LIFE CENTER OF LONG ISLAND 5K RUN/WALK

4 LIFE @ 8:45am / Free-$30 May 8th - Jun 8th 3340 Merrick Rd, Seaford

Friday May 10th

Annie Get Your Gun presented by the Herricks Players @ 8pm / $22-$30

Herricks Community Center, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park. herricksplayers@gmail.com, 516-742-1926

The Herricks Players proudly announce their upcoming production of the beloved musical "Annie Get Your Gun." Transporting theatergoers to the vibrant world of the Wild West, experience classics musical hits like "There's No Business Like Show Business” and "Anything You Can Do (I Can Do Better)".

Restaurant & Bar, 124 W Park Ave, Long Beach

Gold Coast Cinema Series: Endearing French �lm TONI @ 7pm / $16

Toni is a feel-good French comedy written and directed by 24year-old �rst-time direc‐tor Nathan Ambrosioni! Manhasset Cinemas, 430 Plandome Road, Manhasset. info@gold coastarts.org, 516-8292570

Joshua Van Ness: Back to Back to Black: An Amy Wine‐house Celebration @ 7pm

The Paramount, 370 New York Ave, Hunting‐ton

Thu 5/09

James Maddock @ 7pm

Swing the Teapot, 6 Verbena Ave, Floral Park

Cuthbert Live: Solo at JJ Coopers @ 7pm JJ Coopers - American

Art & Music in Motion @ 7pm / $20-$25

Featuring new dance works in collaboration with visual artists and vocalists. Premiering is "Subway Windows" a dance journey into the minds of subway riders. Great Neck Community Education Center, 30 Cumberland Avenue, Great Neck. dancevi sions.ny@gmail.com, 516-314-2359

Tim McGraw: Standing Room Only Tour 2024 @ 7pm / $38.50$203.50 UBS Arena, Belmont Park - Long Island

Fri 5/10

Willy Porter @ 6:30pm Unitarian Universalist Congre‐gation at Shelter Rock (UUCSR), 48 Shelter Rock Rd, Manhasset

Asi Wind - Incredibly Human @ 7pm / $29.50-$69.50 The Paramount, Huntington

New York Mets vs. Atlanta Braves @ 7:10pm Citi Field, Flushing

Dance Theatre of Harlem @ 8pm / $64

The multi-ethnic com‐pany performs trea‐sured classics, neo‐classical works, and in‐novative contemporary pieces to celebrate founder Arthur Mitchel‐l’s belief that ballet be‐longs to everyone. Tilles Center, LIU Post College, 720 Northern Boulevard, Greenvale

Diamond Groove NY: Diamond Groove Rocks Memories! @ 8pm

Memories Pub & Grill, 121 Hill‐side Avenue, Williston Park

Nate Charlie Music @ 8:30pm Bartini Bar & Lounge, 124 N Carll Ave, Babylon

Mike Delguidice @ 9pm / $20 Mulcahy's, Wantagh

Calendar information is pro‐vided by event organizers. All events are subject to change or cancellation. This publica‐tion is not responsible for the accuracy of the information contained in this calendar.

Adelphi’s Writers and Readers Festival

On April 5 and 6, approximately 300 fellow book lovers visited Adelphi University’s inaugural Writers & Readers Festival, a free celebration of storytelling, literature and the power of the written word.

with literary agents, book editors and writing coaches.

Adelphi alumna and best-selling author Alice Hoffman, founded and inspired the two-day event.

The festival included panels and keynotes with bestselling authors professional development workshops and interactive conversations

In addition to Hoffman, festival attendees had the chance to meet and hear from well-known authors including Mona Awad, Kevin Baker, Lisa Belkin, Ada Calhoun, Rebecca Chace, Liana Finck, Kim Coleman Foote, Robin Gow, Julie Klam, Jacqueline Jones LaMon, Ann Leary, Charles Leerhsen, Matt Pasca, Adam Powell and Laura Zigman. Learn more about Adelphi’s Writers & Readers Festival.

Best-selling author and podcaster Adriana Trigiani (holding microphone) and Alice Hoffman. The moderator and author Laura Zigman is at right. Zigman’s first novel “Animal Husbandry” was made into the movie “Someone Like You” starring Hugh Jackman and Ashley Judd

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ADELPHI UNIVERSITY

Star-studded offerings at Staller

Continued from Page 23

Led by Emmy-nominated crooner Benny Benack III and singing phenomenon Stella Katherine Cole, alongside one-of-a-kind tap dancing star Jabu Graybeal. Don’t miss the magic of Benny Benack III, Stella Cole, and Jabu Graybeal, favorites from Postmodern Jukebox, as they serenade you with Hammerstein, “Hamilton,” and everything in between.

The Peridance Contemporary Dance Company takes on the Staller Main Stage on November 16th with one of their inventive yet timeless and powerful dance performances. Experience the captivating artistry of Peridance Contemporary Dance Company.

Under the direction of Igal Perry, PCDC brings together diverse artistic voices from world-renowned choreographers for an evening of virtuosity and elegance. New York City’s premiere repertory company is not to be missed! Described by the New York Times as “blessedly inventive,” New York City’s Peridance Contemporary Dance Company has been a leader in expressive and innovative dance since 1983. With a magnificent troupe of dancers from all over the world, you’ll be transfixed by their seamless blend of athleticism, emotion, and artistic vision.

On the classical side, Staller presents Starry Nights on Nov. 21—an enchanting chamber music performance featuring masterful musicians from the Stony Brook University Department of Music, including Hagai Shaham, violin, and Colin Carr, cello.

On Nov. 23, listen to the dazzling vocal performance by record-breaking artist Jackie Evancho. The worldwide singing sensation, actress, and songwriter will astound the audience with her intricate and skilled vocal performance.

A global phenomenon at only ten years old, Jackie Evancho first dazzled television audiences in 2010, gaining worldwide recognition with her debut on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. She’s broken many records, including the youngest top-10 debut artist in US history, the youngest solo platinum artist, and the youngest person ever to give a solo concert at Lincoln Center.

Now at 23, Evancho has moved beyond the fleeting title of child prodigy towards maturity as an artist, embarking on a new creative direction to tell her truth musically.

While she’s best known for her mastery over classical vocals, Jackie Evancho has proven time and time again that she can tackle any genre with ease, creating Classical Crossover combos that are adored by fans and newcomers alike.

November finishes with an exciting and hilarious kids and family show: Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus on November 24!

Based on the children’s picture book, written and illustrated by the award-winning author Mo Willems, Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus. This interactive story follows the journey of an ecstatic yet mischievous pigeon who begs and pleads with the audience to allow him to drive the bus. Perfect for families and kids who love all of Mo Willems’ books.

December brings us a must-see timeless holiday vocal performance on Dec. 6 by Anthony Nunziata in “A Broadway Italian Christmas.” The Carnegie Hall headliner brings a feast of Italian Holiday Classics, fresh for the season!

Supporting his critically acclaimed BroadwayWorld Holiday Album of the Year Together for Christmas, world-renowned tenor, songwriter, entertainer, and Carnegie Hall headliner Anthony Nunziata is back with a special concert of his hit touring holiday show.

Nunziata’s glorious voice will serenade you with timeless songs from the Italian and American Songbooks, Broadway, jazz, and pop repertoires. You’ll love his soul-stirring renditions of “O Holy Night,” “O Sole Mio,” “The Prayer,” “The Christmas Song,” and many more from his Grammy-winning team of musicians. This is a must-see concert event for the Holiday season!

Later on December 14, don’t miss Caroline Campbell, violin, with guest star Chloe Flowers. Caroline returns, this time with a pop and rock edge, alongside special guest pianist Chloe Flower! Classical crossover violin virtuoso Caroline Campbell pairs up with classical/pop pianist Chloe Flowers to thrill our audience with an edgy and exciting pop and rock program.

Playing classical crossover versions of Led Zeppelin favorites or Campbell’s YouTube sensation version of Skyfall, you will see why this “violinist to the stars” was handpicked to do famous duets, not just with classical greats like Andrea Bocelli and Barbra Streisand but with rock legends like Steven Tyler and Sting.

As for Chloe, you may have seen her perform alongside Cardi B at the Grammys or on SNL, or you may have heard her work on tracks she co-produced for Céline Dion, Johnny Mathis, 2 Chainz, Swae Lee, and more, but never like this — in an adventurous musical night featuring a truly dynamic and powerful duo that you will not want to miss!

For tickets, information, and to see all of the programs at Staller Center, including our Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra dates, our HD Screenings and Live Broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera, and our entire season of art exhibitions in our Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery, and more, visit stallercenter.com.

Consider becoming a member and receive complimentary tickets, discounts, presale access, and more perks. To learn more, visit stallercenter.com/membership

Don’t miss your opportunity to submit your nominations for the Top Business Leaders 2024.

Blank Slate Media is recognizing the most influential and accomplished individuals in business, finance, education, law, not-for-profit, and media who continue to find ways to lead and inspire.

To nominate, or to find out details on how to be a corporate sponsor visit www.theisland360.com/nassau-countys-top-business-leaders

SAVE THE DATE: JUNE 20, 2024 • 6PM

LEONARD’S PALAZZO OF GREAT NECK

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: ERIC ALEXANDER Director, Vision Long Island

READERS WRITE

Re-elect Melkonian, a jewel on Port Board of Education

Ifirst got to know Nanette through her advocacy around education.

Our initial discussions were about our own personal experiences as educators as well as mothers with young children in our district.

Right away, it was clear that Nan knew her stuff around education and that her passion for it was palpable. We served on a board together aimed at lifting the quality of education for all

students in our community.

Having served alongside Nan provided me with a firsthand glimpse into her character and convictions. What initially struck me most about Nanette was her unwavering dedication to understanding diverse perspectives, coupled with her remarkable ability to foster meaningful dialogue – even in the face of disagreement.

I remember sitting around a table

with Nan and admiring her poise and grace as she respectfully listened to another colleague who had a very different perspective from her own.

I was immediately impressed by Nan’s candor, compassion, and dedication to truly understand what the other person was saying, as well as her ability to find common ground. The two ended up elevating each other’s thinking as the rest of us watched in awe.

This would become a common occurrence.

Aside from Nan’s natural propensity to connect with people and her clear passion for education, what has also impressed me about Nan is her commitment to making things better for all children. Nan’s work in our community started when her own children were small, but as they have all graduated, her dedication to making our schools

the best they can be has remained steadfast.

Nan’s heart is tremendous. Her passion and understanding of educational pedagogy and practices, coupled with her love of people and our community, make Nan Melkonian a true jewel in the crown of our Board of Education.

Dina Maiella-Marro Port Washington

A happy 190th anniversary to Long Island Rail Road

Let us all wish a Happy 190th Anniversary to the Long Island Rail Road. On April 24, 1834, the Long Island Rail Road was officially chartered by the State of New York. In 1900, the Pennsylvania Railroad bought a controlling interest as part of its plan for direct access to Manhattan, which began on Sept. 8, 1910. The Pennsylvania Railroad subsidized the LIRR into the late 1940s. This provided the financial basis for support of expansion and upgrades to service and infrastructure.

At the end of World War II there began a decline of our LIRR with a corresponding loss of farebox revenues.

The Pennsylvania Railroad began to reduce financial support as well. This played a part in the LIRR going into receivership in 1949. In recognition of the role the LIRR played in the economy of both Long Island and NYC, New York State began providing financial assistance to the LIRR in the 1950s and 1960.

The “Line of the Dashing Dan” was officially chartered on April 24, 1965, by the State of New York. Prior to 1965, the LIRR derived almost 100% of its funding for both capital and operating expenses from fares. Chartered by the State Legislature in 1965 as the Metropolitan Commuter

We the people can do better than Biden

Joe Biden is the least popular commander in chief at this point of his presidency in the last 70 years, below even Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter, according to a blistering new poll — imperiling his chances of re-election. However, if the GOP doesn’t do anything to protect the election from mail in voting fraud, rampant ballot harvesting, midnight polling center showdowns, miscounting, state courts that decide to change election law instead of the state legisla-

tures, Zuckerbucks, Biden’s 11,000,000 newly imported Illegal aliens voting because no voter ID’s are required then these polls are moot anyway. Chances are the GOP won’t do anything about it because it’s all about the Uniparty. They are all corrupt. When you hear about bipartisanship it only means that they are all getting their share of the money. We the people can do better!

Bill Spitalnick Roslyn

Transportation Authority (MCTA), it was created to purchase and operate the bankrupt LIRR.

In 1966, NYS bought the railroad’s controlling stock from the Pennsylvania Rail Road and put it under the newly formed Metropolitan Commuter Transportation Authority. The MCTA changed its name to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority n 1968 when it took over operations of the NYC Transit Authority.

With MTA subsidies, the LIRR modernized further and grew into the busiest commuter railroad in the United States. Over the past 50 years, several billion dollars in combined

county, city, state and federal taxpayers generated dollars have subsidized both the capital and operating costs for the LIRR.

Riders must remember that fare hikes are periodically required if the MTA is to provide the services millions of New Yorkers use daily. They are inevitable due to inflation, along with increasing costs of labor, power, fuel, supplies, materials, routine safety, state of good repair, replacement of worn-out rolling stock, upgrades to stations, yards and shops along with system expansion projects necessary to run any transit system.

In the end, quality and frequency

of service are dependent upon secure revenue streams. We all have to contribute—be it at the fare box or tax revenues generated by different levels of government redistributed back to the MTA. TANSTAFFL or “There Ain’t No Such Thing As A Free Lunch” or in this case a free ride.

Larry Penner Great Neck (Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a former Director for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management).

Blakeman’s ‘militia’ no threat

The last two issues of the Herald (April 12, April 19) were very interesting.

I suppose the Herald used many barrels of ink blasting County Executive Blakeman and the terrible Republicans.

Mr. Blakeman’s suggestion regarding citizen volunteers in the Sheriff’s Department apparently has caused many citizens to go mad!

Around the State of New York and across the country, it is common for citizens to aid the authorities.

Volunteers are selected, trained and supervised by full-time law enforcement professionals.

Many New Yorkers may not know of the New York Guard. It is a militia force of citizens that has existed here since World War I.

There is also a New York Naval

Militia.

I suggest that the folks who think this move is something unusual or evil do their homework. They may also worry about being struck by lightning or having a mouse run up their trouser leg! Let me assure them that there is no cause for alarm.

The

The Port Washington Water District salutes Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and the Town Board for its pursuit of a $3 million grant to go toward collecting and reusing greywater to irrigate the Harbor Links golf course. The golf course used 14,137,200 gallons of water in 2023 and this project will dramatically reduce that number, helping the PWWD achieve critical conservation goals.

(Editor’s Note: Greywater is domestic wastewater generated in households and buildings from streams that have no contact with wastewater from toilets,) Irrigation is the biggest user of water not only in Port Washington, but throughout Long Island. Approximately

two-thirds of all water pumped during the spring and summer is used for lawn irrigation alone, and golf courses use more water for irrigation than nearly any other type of property. Through this grant, the Town has taken the initiative to offset millions of gallons of water used at Harbor Links per year by recycling greywater, taking an enormous amount of strain off our water source and the infrastructure that supplies it. Water conservation efforts like this are especially important in coastal communities like Port Washington. When we over-pump from our aquifer, we run the risk of saltwater making its way into our drinking water, an obvious detriment to public health. The collection and recycling of greywater for the irri-

gation of Harbor Links will significantly reduce the risk of saltwater intrusion, protecting the water quality of our entire community.

We at the Port Washington Water District take pride in our ability to serve our community and preserve our most precious natural resource, and it is always a pleasure to see our fellow representatives join us in this mission. This project serves as a phenomenal example of how we can all work together to protect our environment and we look forward to helping the Town in any way we can.

PWWD Chairman David Brackett

PWWD Secretary Peter Meyer

PWWD Treasurer Mindy Germain

James G. Collins Floral Park

Business&RealEstate

Follow up the way to future profitability

Long Island is still on “fire” with a multitude of cash purchasers as well as those that have commitment letters from their lenders. However “Cash Is Still King” and still rules in the world of real estate transactions.

I received $35,000 over the asking price on a property in Levittown last week, which actually “shocked” the Trustee of the Estate. I had sold the owner’s previous home 10 years ago, but she had recently passed away. But I had stayed in touch over the years.

One of the most crucial and critical thing that I have learned, absorbed and practiced over 42+ years, was to “stay in Touch” with current and past clients. I learned this while performing this most important facet in growing my previous business of landscape design, licensed and certified and professional lawn-tree and shrub applicator, and our irrigation and carpet cleaning divisions. It is just as significant and far reaching today as it was 30+ years ago.

Your current and past clients referrals are truly the life-blood of every

successful business and without this simple task of keeping and staying in touch; one will never scale one’s business to attain its “optimum lucrative and profitable level.”

Yes, it does take a “1 minute manager” a book written by Kenneth H. Blanchard written in 1982, and still very current today; in order to accomplish this feat.

But it can be learned and adapted with specific conditioning through one’s concerted efforts, disciplined actions and the sacrifice of a commodity that is irretrievable, unrecoverable and you can not create it, your valuable time! By understanding these 6 concepts from my pending copyrighted S.A.C.E.D.S.© formula can assist in scaling your business to potentially earn a $100,000 the very first year.

What many in the real estate industry still don’t do sufficiently is to “stay in touch” and follow up on a regular basis, with their current and especially their past clients.

When is the last time to you called

your past clients? It is as simple as making short and concise videos to say hello, email or video text, snail mail or a short notes.

Maybe deliver a bag of bagels for your Jewish clients after the holidays. Providing an inspirational book for Kwanza to your black clients. Celebrating “Diwali” (also known as Deep-

avali), celebrating the “Festival of Lights” with a sweet treat or food or small gift for your Indian past clients.

Lastly, Ramadan began this year on March 10th and finished on April 10th and was 1 month of fasting, celebrated by the Muslim community. A small gift or some sweets on Eid, the day after Ramadan finishes would be appropriate, again staying in touch with your clients. In 2025, it begins on February 28 and ends on Saturday, March 29 at sundown, so you should add it to your calendar.

Back in February, the Long Island Board of Realtors held an event for the Lunar New Year, celebrating the Year of the Dragon at New Fun Restaurant in Great Neck. The Village of Great Neck Plaza also celebrated the holiday, with another event that our Mayor Ted Rosen hosted with all the participants.

Being involved in these types of events goes a long way, in showing your clients that “nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care and know.” By

participating in these celebrations it provides the evidence and proof that all your clients and their cultures are important to you.

This will form a strong bond between you and your current, past and future clients.

It is extremely important to notate the holiday dates in one’s calendar for the varied cultures that you have previously completed transactions with. If you haven’t stayed present with your past clientele, maybe it’s time to re-establish some rapport and build back those most crucial and critical relationships.

Your business doesn’t stop after you were paid at the closing of the transaction. It actually continues into the future by creating advocates and communicating and staying in touch for your most valuable and cherished referrals. This will enable you to grow, enhance and scale your business to greater profitability.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck.

and Founder

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PHILIP A. RAICES Real Estate Watch

Suozzi eyes border bill, says he backs Johnson

Continued from Page 9

The bill’s aid to Ukraine faced the strongest opposition from MAGA Republicans, many of whom align with former President Donald Trump, including Johnson, who did an aboutface after receiving an intelligence briefing as a member of the nation’s most senior leadership on the stakes involved in not supporting Ukraine militarily.

Just a week prior to the vote being brought to the House floor, Suozzi penned an op-ed that called for partisanship to be cast aside so aid could be delivered to these regions.

Far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene criticized the House speaker for failing to deliver on promises and said she would not tolerate his anticipated plan to push for more aid to Ukraine. Her disapproval includes threats to call for his removal as speaker via a single vote, yet she did not indicate if or when this could occur.

In the wake of Greene’s warnings to oust House Speaker Johnson, Suozzi, a Democrat, announced his support of the Republican speaker.

Suozzi attributed the divisiveness in delivering Ukraine aid to Russian propaganda, which

he said Republicans like Greene were “parroting.”

“Our foreign adversaries tried to divide us and stop us from supporting Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan,” Suozzi wrote in a release. “Putin, the Iranians, and the Chinese Communist Party were counting on the rhetoric of Moscow Marjorie, and the other isolationists and extremists in the chaos caucus to stop us from doing our jobs. Instead, we, on a bipartisan basis, fulfilled the call of history and fulfilled our role as the indispensable nation.”

But in his praise for the foreign aid package’s passage in Congress, Suozzi also called for security to be brought to the U.S.-Mexico border – funds for which were included in the original foreign aid package presented in February.

“Now let’s bring ‘Order to The Border!’” Suozzi wrote in a release.

In tandem with delivering aid to Ukraine, the package also strengthens sanctions on Russian assets. It funds Israel’ss military efforts against Iran and other proxies, reimburses U.S. military operations and provides humanitarian aid. And a provision requires TikTok’s China-based parent company to sell the app or face a U.S. ban.

ington, D.C.

Curran, Bosworth back Keiserman in primary

Continued from Page 9

The district, which includes much of the North Shore and the Town of Oyster Bay as far east as Woodbury, is currently represented by Martins, who flipped the district red in 2022.

Keiserman has garnered a slew of endorsements, including from Nassau County and New York State Democratic Party Chairman Jay Jacobs, former Nassau County Legislator Josh Lafazan, state Assemblymember Gina Sillitti, former state Sen. Anna Kaplan, Democratic National Committeeman Robert Zimmerman and Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton.

Lafazan was previously in the state Senate District 7 race, running against Keiserman, but pulled out in March. In his announcement suspending his campaign, he extended his support for Keiserman in the race.

Lafazan was ousted from his seat in the Nassau County Legislature in November when he was defeated by his Republican opponent Samantha Goetz. Keiserman is an education consultant and serves as a commissioner for the North Hempstead Housing Authority Board of Commissioners and is the chairwoman of the Baxter Estates Planning Board. She also is co-president of the Baxter’s Pond Foundation and president of the Port Washington Democratic Club.

She said she plans to advocate for increased public school funding, sensible gun policies and combatting climate change to “create a future that reflects shared aspirations and ensures a fair, inclusive, and prosperous Long Island for all,” her campaign said.

The primary election for party nominees is June 25. The general election will then be held on Nov. 5.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS, PUBLIC DOMAIN

United States House of Representatives chamber at the United States Capitol in Wash-

Open houses scheduled for LI electric transmission project

Continued from Page 8

Other Nassau County sessions will be held on May 15 at Long Island University for Oyster Bay residents, May 16 at Kennedy Memorial Park Community Center for the Village of Hempstead, May 21 at Adelphi for the Town of Hempstead and May 22 at Oceanside School #8 for Oceanside residents.

Individuals can also provide comments or ask questions by calling the toll-free line 1-800-347-9071 or emailing the developers at info@propelNYEnergy.com. Additional information can be found on its website PropelNYEnergy.com.

The Propel New York Energy project is proposing about 66 miles of electrical transmission lines throughout Long Island, with a majority proposed in Nassau County.

The project is a collaboration between the New York Power Authority, the state’s public power utility, and New York Transco, a New York developer, owner and operator of bulk electrical transmission facilities.

Its intent is to bolster reliability, resiliency and redundancy in the electrical grid and aid in environmental sustainability goals.

It includes the implementation of

new and upgraded electrical stations along with nearly 90 miles of underground and submarine – or below the sea floor – transmission lines.

The electrical transmission lines will connect the electrical sources to the substations, which then distribute electricity to surrounding homes and businesses through separate distribution lines.

“It’s the backbone of the electric grid,” New York Power Authority senior program director Ana Stachowiak previously told Blank Slate Media.

A majority of the lines will be placed in Long Island, with just 12 miles in New York City and 12.6 miles in Westchester County.

Nearly 10 miles of submarine lines will also be installed, cutting through Hempstead Harbor and the Long Island Sound. Of this, 6.25 miles will be considered part of Long Island.

The transmission lines are planned to be placed under existing public rights of way and utility properties throughout Nassau County and in Suffolk County, Queens, the Bronx and Westchester County.

Three segments of the transmission lines route will run through North Hempstead on Northern Boulevard,

Mineola Avenue to Willis Avenue, and Glen Cove Road.

Of Nassau County, a majority of the lines will run through the Town of North Hempstead and cut through 11 villages. Approximately 19.5 miles of lines will be installed in North Hempstead.

The villages these lines would cut through are Westbury, Old Westbury, East Hills, Roslyn Harbor, Mineola, Williston Park, Roslyn, Flower Hill, Lake Succes, Russell Gardens and Thomaston.

The project proposal is preliminary and details are still subject to change pending community feedback.

The project is amid its pre-permitting outreach and survey phase which is when they will solicit community and municipality feedback on the project. This is a required component before permits can be applied for.

The application of a state permit to begin the project is anticipated to be filed this summer, but the process is estimated to take place through 2026. It is estimated that the permitting process will take about two years.

Community engagement is a requirement for the project to be granted its required state permits.

ACTION & ACCOUNTABILITY

RE-ELECT

ADAM BLOCK

Dear Port Washington Community, I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for re-election to the Port Washington School Board. Over the past term, I have had the honor of serving our community, and together, my fellow BOE members and I have made real tangible progress in improving our schools the entire community. Here are some of the accomplishments we have achieved together:

1. Improved Conference Schedule: In the 2022-2023 academic year, we listened to feedback from teachers, students, and parents and made significant changes to our conference schedule. By replacing 3 one-off ½ day conferences with 1 full day and 1 half day conference, making scheduling easier for families.

2. Expanded After-School Care: Recognizing the needs of working families, we have expanded after-school care programs to all five elementary schools The enrollment in these programs is booming, and when I pick up my son from Salem, the kids are all having a great time getting the play time together that can sometimes be hard for working parents to consistently provide after school.

3. Implementation of Strategic Plan: Starting from the 2021-2022 school year, we have implemented a Strategic Plan for our district. This shows the district is thinking about tomorrow.

4. Revamped Homework Policy: After 20 years, this BOE added time

requirements for every grade, we are promoting a more balanced approach to homework.

5. Responsible Fiscal Management: In May 2022, our community overwhelmingly supported the Capital Reserve, budget, and reserve, with over 75% approval. We are now utilizing this Capital Reserve to address critical infrastructure needs such as improving roofs and drainage systems in 2024.

6. Environmental Stewardship: We are proud to announce a budget-neutral solar panel installation project scheduled for 2024. This initiative will significantly reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, cutting down district electricity costs by 30-40%, equivalent to saving $600,000 annually.

These are just a few key accomplishments. For my next term I want to focus on expanding athletics, making additional teams more accessible to all and improving consistency across classrooms and schools bringing the best of Port Washington education to everyone. You have my word that if re-elected, I will continue to speak my mind and push for the changes we all believe are possible.

Thank you for your continued confidence.

Sincerely,

Adam E. Block Port Washington School Board Member

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Recent Real Estate Sales in

89 Harbor Road, Port Washington

2

38 Cottonwood Road, Port Washington

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58 Park Avenue, Port Washington

FEC complaint filed against Rep. D’Esposito

A constituent in the

Continued from Page 8

She alleged that in addition to the subsidized funding, D’Esposito used his campaign social media accounts to post official government communications and sent fundraising emails from his campaign committee asking for support in official government business.

Representatives from the FEC and the Office of Congressional Ethics said they were unable to confirm that the complaints were filed because it was confidential information.

This is not the first time D’Esposito has faced pushback on his fundraising efforts.

The FEC questioned D’Esposito on his campaign fundraising in 2022, when he first ran for Con-

gress, asking about excessive contributions, funds from unregistered committees and possible illegal donations from corporations, Newsday reported in 2023.

The representative’s campaign finance committee responded with amendments to fund designation, refunded contributions questioned by the FEC and said that the contributions from unregistered committees did not come from corporations, according to Newsday.

Helene is a retired teacher who called herself an “active Democrat” and said she has donated to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee in the past.

She said she contacted the DCCC to bring D’Esposito’s social media posts, which she claimed

are violations of the House ethics rules, to the committee’s attention.

She said D’Esposito posted about a Republican spending bill on X, formerly known as Twitter, and then posted a nearly identical tweet on his campaign account.

She said that D’Esposito sent an email discussing homeland security from his government email address and then asked for campaign donations in the same email.

“I really want to get [D’Esposito] out,” Helene said.

The former teacher said she supports Laura Gillen.

When Helene contacted members of the DCCC, the DCCC informed her about the alleged

$20,000 in subsidized funding, Helene said.

“Anthony D’Esposito has proven time and again that he caves to corruption and extremism, which is why voters across New York’s Fourth Congressional District will hold him accountable this November,” DCCC Spokesperson Ellie Dougherty told Blank Slate Media in a statement.

The 4th Congressional District race is one of the top competitive congressional races in the country, according to Cook Political Report ratings.

The race is a rematch between D’Esposito and Laura Gillen, a former Hempstead town supervisor and Democrat who lost to D’Esposito in 2022.

Valley Stream boy 1st in NY to receive treatment

Zynteglo is a one-time treatment for patients with beta-thalassemia, which is a blood disease caused by genetic mutations. These genetic mutations cause hemoglobin production to be reduced or wholly absent.

Hemoglobin is a protein in red

blood cells that contains iron and transports oxygen, according to Mount Sinai Hospital. Low hemoglobin levels can indicate health conditions like anemia, leukemia and other cancers, kidney disease, chronic illness and so on, according to Mount Sinai Hospital.

Patients with the rare condition live with severe anemia and a lifelong dependence on weekly blood cell transfusions, according to Cohen. Only about 200,000 patients around the world with thalassemia are registered as receiving regular treatment, according to Thalassemia International Foundation.

But blood transfusions are not a permanent solution and can lead to other complications, including an increased risk of long-term illness and death due to an overload of iron in the blood, according to Dr. Jon Fish, head of stem cell transplants, cell therapy and pediatric hematology at Cohen.

“Patients living with beta-thalassemia who would traditionally require regular transfusion faced an increased risk of long-term illness and death,” Dr. Fish said in a statement. “That’s why the ability to treat our patients with Zynteglo represents a milestone in the care and treatment of our patients.”

• Great Neck News

• Williston Times

• New Hyde Park Herald Courier

NYU Langone performs 1st heart, kidney treatment

• Manhasset Times

• Roslyn Times

Continued from Page 14

Then it was time for a xenotransplant, which is a transplant of an organ between different species. Pisano received a genetically altered pig kidney, which was key to avoiding the pitfalls of her chronic health conditions. While her body develops high levels of antibodies against human tissue, the same is not the case for tissue from another species like pig.

Dr. Nader Moazami is chief of the heart and lung transplant division at NYU Langone and one of the surgeons who performed Pisano’s heart pump surgery.

“Without the possibility of a kidney transplant, she would not have been eligible as a candidate for an LVAD due to the high mortality in patients on dialysis with heart pumps,” Moazami said in a statement. “This unique approach is the first time in the world that LVAD surgery has been done on a dialysis patient with a subsequent plan to transplant a kidney. The measure for success is a chance at a better quality of life and to give Lisa more time to spend with her family.”

The landmark procedure required clearance from the NYU Langone institutional review board and approval by the FDA through its Expanded Access Program, which is meant for patients with a life-threatening

condition.

The surgeries’ success could have powerful future outcomes, since many patients today are stuck on the waitlist for organ transplants. Nearly 104,000 people are currently on the transplant waiting list, according to NYU Langone, and 89,360 of those patients are in need of a kidney.

• Port Washington Times

• Garden City News

While nearly 808,000 people in the United States have endstage kidney disease like Pisano, only about 27,000 patients were able to receive a kidney transplant last year, according to NYU Langone.

Dr. Robert Montgomery led the transplant surgery. He is chair of the Surgery Department, director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute and the H. Leon Pachter professor of surgery.

“By using pigs with a single genetic modification, we can better understand the role one key stable change in the genome can have in making xenotransplantation a viable alternative,” Montgomery said in a statement. “Since these pigs can be bred and do not require cloning like more-complex gene edits, this is a sustainable, scalable solution to the organ shortage. If we want to start saving more lives quickly, using fewer modifications and medications will be the answer.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

4th Congressional District filed multiple campaign finance complaints against Rep. Anthony D’Esposito.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA PISANO

Lisa Pisano, who received a series of landmark, life-saving surgeries at NYU Langone, with her granddaughter Olivia.

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Port hosts crowded field in ed board race

Continued from Page 1

cator, also touted the district’s accomplishments as trustees in a previous interview with Blank Slate Media.

Many of these included those Smith identified, like its new programs and bolstering communication.

Going forward, Melkonian said she is looking to expand professional development and foster a more positive school culture and climate. Block said he wants to increase consistency across classrooms and schools.

Alvarez is a lifelong resident of Port Washington who runs a private youth athletics company on Long Island. She is also the co-president of the school district’s Special Education Parent Teacher Association, treasurer for Parents Council and has served on various school committees.

She said she began attending board of education meetings three years ago after struggling to find adequate after-school programs for her child. In attending these meetings, she said she was introduced to a diverse array of concerns from other parents.

Alvarez said she is running for the board of education to increase community representation on the board and stress the importance of inclusivity.

“The Board of Education is responsible for setting the district’s direction with performance-based goals,” Alvarez wrote in an email to Blank Slate Media. “However, performance-based goals vary significantly among students. I firmly believe that the Board of Education should be a true reflection of our entire community, consistently prioritizing the needs of every student, responsibly.”

She said while programs the incumbent candidates highlighted have been beneficial, they are at stake amid cuts. Alvarez said she is running to preserve those programs, which she said are not adequately funded under the adopted budget.

“Discussions around budget cuts are difficult, needed this year, the important part is how are those discussions being conducted,” Alvarez wrote in an email.

Challenger Bitalvo, who moved to Port Washington in 2016, is a writer and stay-at-home dad of two children in the school district.

He previously served on the Parent Resource Center’s board, is a current member of Residents Forward’s board of directors and is the copresident of the South Salem Home School Association.

Already working within the school district, Bitalvo highlighted his efforts in aiding the district’s transition to in-person learning after the pandemic. He said many parents and students had not even set foot inside the buildings and worked with administrators, staff and parent volunteers to aid in that transition.

Being present in the district’s operations, Bitalvo said he has the perspective of seeing what the board of education implements and its impacts at its schools. Taking these perspectives, he said he can see where actions can be taken even further.

tion, and stronger advocacy for more state funding.

Delerme said he would also like to expand transparency, accountability and accessibility of the district, which he said has improved recently but could be developed further.

“The parents of our community deserve to know what’s going on and shouldn’t have to dig deep down or only when there is a budget vote [to] have that information,” Delerme said.

Ideas he suggested included developing a newsletter to reach out to the district’s constituency directly.

Also featured on the ballot is a vote to adopt the school district’s budget with a 4.55% tax increase that exceeds the tax cap by 1.16%. This requires a 60% approval vote to pass.

Smith said the district had two choices – to increase taxes or make budget cuts. He said while neither was ideal, a combination of the two was the best option to diminish impacts on the district.

In creating the budget, Smith said three things were balanced: tolerable cuts that didn’t greatly impact the district, use of reserves and a tax increase.

“It’s not perfect, but I really feel that this was the most balanced approach that meets the needs of all of our stakeholders,” Smith said.

Choolfaian criticized the district’s tax increase, saying if elected she would advocate for the taxpayer and greater transparency.

Bitalvo said he opted to run for the board of education after being encouraged by people around him to expand his admiration for service to another level in the district.

Despite the external validation, Bitalvo said he filed to run after seriously considering the decision and finding himself ready to take on the responsibility.

Bitalvo said the district is at a tipping point, facing financial hardships, and believes that he is equipped to aid the district in moving forward and addressing these challenges.

To achieve this, Bitalvo said he aims to work as a collective with the board and “leave no stone unturned” when seeking solutions to problems.

“It’s about making this district as good as any other district anywhere,” Bitalvo said.

Choolfaian, a nine-year resident of Port Washington, was born and raised in Bulgaria. She has three children enrolled in the Port Washington School District.

Choolfaian said in an email to Blank Slate that she chose to run as the district is in a “fiscal crisis” as the district opts to increase taxes by 4.55%.

“Administrative bloat and questionable decisions have gotten us here,” Choolfaian wrote in an email to Blank Slate Media. “This is unsustainable and it is also possibly dishonest to the parents and taxpayers of the district. It is also unfair. Not everyone can afford this tax hike.”

If elected, Choolfaian said her priority would be restoring educational excellence while maintaining

“financial wholesomeness.” She said this would be achieved through better contractual negotiations, securing multiple project bids and closely analyzing expenses.

“I will plan for the future in a way that helps our community thrive and not the opposite,” Choolfaian wrote in the email.

Choolfaian identified multiple issues in the district, including failure to educate younger students in reading and writing, a drop in the state standard ranking for academic excellence, administrative bloat, inefficient administrative restructuring, a lack of accountability, expensive programming, and a complete disregard for sustainable financial planning.

She said the district also lacks transparency with the public in sharing its budget, saying that the actual expenditures of the district have not been made available to the public and said it is required under the law.

Assistant Superintendent of Business Kathleen Manuel told Blank Slate Media that publishing the district’s actuals is not a requirement under the law, but that the district’s budget actuals are always audited at the end of every fiscal year and the report is published on the district’s website.

Manuel said actual budget figures will be made public going forward, with the prior couple of years made available.

Challenger Delerme is a practicing lawyer of more than 12 years who works as a business affairs executive and in-house attorney for Tombras, a marketing and advertising agency. He

and his wife have three children, with two in district schools and the third still an infant.

He is also a board member at the Parent Resource Center in Port Washington, a trustee at the Science Museum of Long Island and co-founder of the Port Washington Hispanic Heritage Celebration: Fiesta in the Park.

Delerme said his involvement has been fueled by a desire to advocate for youth enrichment, something that inspired his bid for the Port Washington Board of Education as well.

“By virtue of that, the school board is a natural evolution for me to bring the collaborative work ethic and opportunities that I’ve fostered here in the community to a larger goal, which is across our entire school district,” Delerme said.

He described himself as a pragmatic collaborator and empathetic listener with an ability to separate the “noise” from the core issue.

While Delerme was not raised in Port and did not attend its schools, he said he has a different experience that makes him a “fair arbiter” in making objective decisions for the district. He said this is beneficial in balancing the desires of all the stakeholders.

“I want to see children succeed in the same way that I succeeded and they deserve that, they deserve to be successful,” Delerme said. “If you empower them regardless of their background, religion, socioeconomic status … they can achieve full potential.”

Three issues Delerme’s campaign is advocating for are smaller class sizes, safe buildings and transporta-

“This year the budget deficit is a whopping $5.3 million,” Choolfaian wrote. “That should alarm every single parent and taxpayer here. It is a sign of a significant problem, one that will not be solved but only made worse by going to the taxpayers’ wallets for a solution. Why should the community subsidize inefficiency?”

The district’s initial budget report identified a gap of $5.3 million, which was reduced to a gap of $1,782,800 that would be made up through the tax increase.

Delerme called the tax increase a short-term solution that diminishes the harm greater budget cuts would bring. But he said he is looking for medium-term solutions, which include greater state funding he said he would aggressively advocate for.

Bitalvo acknowledged that the decision was difficult for the district and said he respects the board’s decision, but said he doesn’t have the specific information to make a firm decision on the matter.

He said the community is scared and greater transparency is needed for stakeholders to make sound decisions when voting on the budget. He said the solution to these financial issues can not always be increasing taxes.

“The current budget crisis is concerning, and as someone regularly in the school buildings I fear for the repercussions the budget shortfall will have on teachers and students,” Bitalvo wrote in an email to Blank Slate Media.

Community members can vote for three trustees from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on May 21 in the Weber Middle School All Purpose Room.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CANDIDATES

(Clockwise from top left) Trustee Adam Block, Trustee Nanette Melkonian, President Adam Smith, Joe Delerme, Michale Bitalvo and Sandra Alvarez. No headshot provided by Teodora Choolfaian.

Swimsuit shop finds lifeline in village

Continued from Page 12

While the business partners are excited to be in their new location, the move to Roslyn Village was a way to make the best out of a sticky situation.

In October, Weinberg’s landlord informed the business owner that he wanted to renovate the building. Weinberg did not oppose the renovations, but he did emphasize to his landlord the importance of finishing construction prior to this summer.

“Joel didn’t want to miss the summer season,” Burns said. “He has been serving Long Island and the women in Long Island for 43 years and he wasn’t gonna miss the summer.”

Renovations were estimated to be finished by April or May, but the building is currently still under construction.

When Burns, who said he has been a longtime

friend of Weinberg, heard of the problem, he decided to bring to Weinberg’s attention an empty storefront he had noticed in the village.

Now, Weinberg and Burns have moved the business into the Roslyn storefront. While they are unsure of how long they will be at the new location, they said they are excited about the future.

The partners will continue Weinberg’s unique, old-school business model in the Roslyn storefront. While the store does have a website, customers are unable to purchase swimsuits online, a purposeful choice rather than an oversight in the digital age.

“Fit is the most important thing that we sell,” Burns said. “Our staff is trained in this. They’ve seen all different types of people, all body shapes, and they know the brands so well that they can sort of point someone in the direction of what might fit them best.”

The dedication to fit goes beyond welltrained staff to beautiful dressing rooms and recommended swimsuit alterations, Burns said.

Great Shapes also has a large focus on making the customer comfortable, a practice that goes back as far as Weinberg’s career.

Weinberg started his career as a salesman for two large swimwear companies, but he lacked job security in sales. Weinberg said since the North Shore didn’t have any retail swim stores at the time, he opened his own.

Soon enough, Weinberg said he owned three or four of the largest grossing swim stores in the country. A career he fell into due to “sheer luck” became a passion, he said.

The store owner said he especially liked finding swimwear companies early on, before they became popular, and securing exclusivity on certain swimwear lines for his stores.

Roslyn ranked in top 100 NYS high schools

Continued from Page 2

Great Neck North ranked No. 9 on Long, No. 66 in the NY Metro Area, No. 51 in the state, No. 141 in STEM high schools nationwide and No. 399 nationally, with an overall score of 97.74/100.

“We’re very pleased with both of our high schools doing so well,” Great Neck Board of Education President Rebecca Sassouni said. “Both have increased in rankings since last year.”

The Wheatley School ranked high as well, coming in at No. 48 in the NY Metro Area, No. 35 in New York State and No. 280 in the national rankings. Its overall score is 98.41/100.

Herricks High School followed closely behind, placing No. 54 in the NY Metro Area, No. 41 in the state and No. 317 nationwide, earning an overall

score of 98.21/100.

“We take pride in the fact that we are in the top 50 schools in New York State,” Herricks School District Trustee Brian Hassan said.

North Shore High School placed No. 78 in the NY Metro Area, No. 57 in New York State. It also ranked No. 269 in STEM high schools nationwide and No. 456 in the national rankings, with an overall score of 97.42/100.

Next up, Roslyn High School came in at No. 82 in the NY Metro Area, No. 61 in New York State and No. 493 in the nationwide rankings, scoring 97.21/100 overall.

Paul D. Schreiber Senior High School in Port Washington ranked closely behind, placing No. 105 in the metro area, No. 78 in the state and No.

705 in the national rankings. It earned an overall score of 96.01/100.

Floral Park Memorial High School ranks No. 280 in the NY Metro Area, No. 241 in New York State and No. 2,560 nationwide, with an overall score of 85.5/100.

Similarly, Mineola High School ranks at No. 297 in the metro area, No. 256 in the state and No. 2,720 nationwide, scoring 84.59/100.

Sewanhaka High School did not receive an award badge, ranking No. 600 in the metro area, No. 679 in the state and No. 8,546 in the national rankings. Its overall score was 51.59/100, due to low participation rates for the AP Exam, low AP Exam scores and poor proficiency in Mathematics and Science.

Port pizzeria closes oven over permits

Continued from Page 2

would operate as a grab-and-go.

“So basically, right off the bat, they lied to this board,” Popeleski said.

Olson said he had emailed the mayor in September 2022 when he realized they had not received village approval for the pizza oven install. He said no response was received.

Popeleski said he is responsive to inquiries from the community, but Olson said multiple emails to the mayor were never responded to.

Popeleski also read a transcript from when Olsen appeared in village court in March 2023 at a proceeding where the judge said the business’ wood-fired pizza oven and its chimney were installed without a building permit.

While the owners admitted they had installed the pizza oven without village approval, they did seek approval from the Nassau County Fire Marshal, which determined there were no fire hazards. They said the failure to go through the village for approval was an oversight.

Popeleski said at the root of this issue is safety, saying that bypassing the required permits poses a risk to the public without proper oversight.

Olson said issues have persisted throughout the process of opening his business, which included never receiving a certificate of occupancy. He said this was exacerbated by turnover in the village’s Building Department.

He said his business also received numerous citations for variances his business had been ap-

proved for but none concerned the oven.

In a Facebook post on Serra Provisions’ account, the owners denied Manorhaven’s claim that they were refusing to comply with the village.

With a desire to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, Olson said the best solution they found was to decommission the pizza oven entirely.

“Unfortunately, the baseless citations and lack of clear direction have us questioning the integrity of the current administration, which was not something we anticipated when starting our small business,” the owners wrote on Facebook. “Until there is a shift in local leadership, we do not envision that any further proceedings will be fair and objective, nor do we have the financial capacity to jump through any more hoops.”

Weinberg is responsible for bringing in around 25 swimwear lines to the United States, the store owner said.

Today, his stores carry a wide range of swimwear and lingerie lines, including Maryan Melhoen, Karla Colletto, Heidi Klein, Carmen Marc Valvo, Michael Kors and many more.

Even with the expansive swim collection, Weinberg said he knows swimsuit shopping is no easy task.

“A woman is probably most uncomfortable outside of her house in a swimsuit,” Weinberg said. “Our goal is always to make that woman or that young girl or their grandmother or whomever feel as comfortable as they’re going to ever feel in a swimsuit, knowing that the world is going to see them.”

It seems as though Weinberg has achieved this goal. One woman drove hours to shop at one of his New Jersey stores after she moved, Weinberg said. And many young women who shopped at his stores when they were just 13 have returned years later to shop with their college friends, the store owner boasted.

Continued from Page 3

ued with a rise in 2023-2024 amounting in total to $538,000 and is projected to now fall again in the next fiscal year.

One of the biggest costs for the village in the upcoming budget is the contract with the Port Washington Sewer District which amounts to $1.24 million and represents a 16.38%, or $175,000 increase in the budget.

The total costs for sewage treatment and disposal in the budget add up to $1,386,822, or about 25.87% of the total budget.

Manorhaven’s state aid is projected to be $254,471 in the next fiscal year. This is a $6,000 drop from the current fiscal year, which is attributed to a decline in the state’s consolidated highway aid.

To balance the budget, $595,000 will be used from the village’s appropriated fund balance as a revenue source.

Also approved Wednesday night was a local law for a lot line adjustment for the properties of 134-138 Shore Road and 12 Manorhaven Blvd. The two properties share a boundary line in the rear of the Shore Road property.

Howard Avrutine, the attorney representing the two properties, said the Shore Road property is under contract to be sold. He said the purchaser received a new survey of the property which found that a “small portion” of the parking lot is technically within the property bounds of the Manorhaven Road lot.

The lot line adjustment approved by the board transferred the portion of the parking lot to the Shore Road property. This adjustment does not include any physical changes to the property lines.

from Page 3

mother sort through her historian documents.

“She had me line up all the papers and I said, ‘Which way do you want them? Chronological, reverse chronological?’” Gardner said. “[My mother responded] ‘Chronological is fine.’”

Those memories came up once again on her drive to the dedication, as she pointed out to her husband some autobody shops along Middle Neck Road that were once where the trolley was housed, something she learned during her time helping her mother.

Her daughters described their late mother as a force of nature who was strong in her beliefs, took control of most any task and never accepted no for an answer.

Gardner described a moment of gardening with her father and her mother’s specific request that every planting be eight inches apart.

She stretched out her hand, with her thumb and pinky extended out and her three middle fingers curled under, to show the exact length of eight inches from her thumb to pinky. Gardner said this was the precise distance her mom wanted between each of her plantings.

“You knew exactly what she wanted because she was always very specific,” Gardner said. “Very detail-oriented, very loving.”

Becker’s dedication to the village continued up until a few weeks before her death as she consistently attended meetings and offered her expertise and knowledge on a diverse array of village topics.

Shatzkamer said Becker was not only a friend of the village, but also a friend of hers whose memory will continue to live on in the village she called home.

Dems call sheriff program ‘flagrantly illegal’

Continued from Page 1

gram is a collection of Nassau County residents who are already licensed firearm owners. The program specifically sought out applicants who already had law enforcement or military background.

The program has garnered staunch opposition, including an online petition calling for the disbandment of the special deputy sheriff program which has garnered more than 2,500 signatures.

Many of those in opposition to the program have referred to it as Blakeman’s “militia.” The petition also refers to the program as “Blakeman’s personal Nassau County militia.”

In a letter signed by all seven Democrats in the county Legislature, the minority caucus said the program is “grossly inappropriate, risks public safety, and wastes taxpayer money.”

“Not only does empowering undertrained civilians to perform critical governmental functions during the time of a crisis – bearing firearms, no less – pose obvious risks to public safety, it is illegal,” the letter states. “Moreover, it is illogical to comprehend how civilians with barely a month of training can be granted the authority to carry deadly weapons under law enforcement powers, while Nassau County Auxiliary police officers, despite undergoing a comprehensive 40-week, 150-hour training program, are not deemed qualified for similar responsibilities.”

Efforts to solicit comment from Blakeman were unavailing.

The minority caucus includes Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D–Glen Cove), Deputy Minority Leader Arnold Drucker (D–Plainview), and Legislators Siela A. Bynoe (D –Westbury), Carrié Solages (D – Valley Stream), Debra Mulé (D – Freeport). Scott M. Davis (D –Rockville Centre) and Seth I. Koslow (D – Merrick).

The caucus states in their letter that the

Members of the Nassau County Legislature Minority Caucus.

power to appoint special deputy sheriffs is only bestowed upon the sheriff and only during designated special emergencies, as outlined under county and general municipal law.

Blakeman said the volunteer deputy sheriffs would only be deputized during a declared emergency, including political protests that become riots.

While the county executive can declare an emergency, the minority caucus cites general municipal law that states emergencies can only be declared after first notifying the governor. The governor is also able to deny any emergency declaration.

They state the governor’s veto power on declared emergencies exists to “safeguard against potential abuses of power.”

“There is no special emergency presently in effect and you have sent no communication to the Governor to commence the declaration of one,” the letter states. “Nor do you have the power, as you appear to be claiming, to “provisionally” assemble a list of special deputies

in the absence of a duly declared emergency, as no such authority is granted to local sheriffs under the law. It is also an obvious waste of the County’s resources to do so.”

The caucus also expressed disdain for the criteria to apply for the program, saying it relies mostly upon the applicant’s possession of a firearm license.

They say this is also a violation of the law, which requires that emergency special deputy sheriffs be pulled from active law enforcement personnel like neighboring county deputy sheriffs.

The general municipal law states that sheriffs may request from other sheriffs “such number of their deputy sheriffs as may be available…. and to deputize as emergency special deputy sheriffs of his county any or all personnel so supplied by the sheriff of any other county.”

“The law does not authorize or contemplate the deputization of unqualified civilians,” the letter states.

D’Esposito blasts Columbia protests

Continued from Page 4

can House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana and two other representatives on the front steps of the Columbia library.

Johnson condemned the campus protests, called on Columbia University President Nemat Shafik to resign and said he would urge President Joe Biden to take executive action against the protesters, including use of the National Guard, if necessary.

His comments were largely drowned out by shouts and boos from the crowd. As crowd members chanted over his remarks, Johnson said: “Enjoy your free speech.”

“[Shafik] has failed her duty,” D’Esposito said. “She is not keeping students safe and we see on this campus the hate-filled speech that is carrying through this country.”

D’Esposito, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Rep. Mike Lawler visited the university April 22. Lawler represents New York’s 17th Congressional Distric, including Rockland County, Putnam County and northern Westchester County.

“As Nassau’s first Jewish county executive, I’m disgusted by what’s going on at Columbia, Yale University and at Hofstra University, where President Susan Poser is equivocating in her support for Israel,” Blakeman said in a Facebook post. “We denounced all forms of hate and antisemitism.”

Efforts to reach Poser were unavailing.

This is not the first time Blakeman called out Poser by name. Blakeman accused Poser of col-

luding with competitors to prevent a Las Vegas Sands proposal — which would build a casino near Hofstra — from winning a gaming license bid. Hofstra denied any form of collusion with Las Vegas Sands competitors.

Hofstra students participated in a pro-Palestinian protest Thursday afternoon at the Hempstead campus. A smaller group of pro-Israeli students stood nearby.

“A group of passionate students and a few faculty gathered today outside Hofstra Hall to protest the war in Gaza,” a Hofstra spokesperson told News12. “The demonstration has been peaceful.”

At the time Blakeman made his Facebook post, Hofstra students had not yet held a protest.

“President Poser and Hofstra have suppressed our voices a lot, and I know that’s similar to other universities, but that’s why all of these protests are taking place on campuses,” said Zainab Mozawalla, president of Hofstra Student Voices for Palestine.

The junior pre-law student said these protests are a last resort after being silenced by the university.

“We pay so much money in tuition and we don’t want any of that money going to Israeli funding. Hofstra even offers free trips to Israel, which we believe is an apartheid state,” Mozawalla said. “That’s why we do these protests, because this is how we get our voices heard, and if this is the only way, then this is the only way.”

Adelphi students participated in a proPalestinian protest Monday at the Garden City

campus.

“The university fully believes in the importance of fostering an environment where students and community members have the freedom to peacefully express themselves,” an Adelphi spokesperson told News12.

Efforts to reach Adelphi Students for Justice in Palestine were unavailing.

Columbia University faculty and students have staged protests in support of Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war for weeks on the college campus.

Dozens of students supporting Palestinians first staged a “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” on the campus April 17, pitching tents and occupying the center of campus.

Shafik appeared before a congressional committee that same day to condemn antisemitism and rebut claims that the university was a breeding ground for hate.

Now, nearly two weeks later, student protesters have occupied a building at the university, breaking through windows to gain entry very early Tuesday.

“These terror sympathizers will destroy Columbia University until leadership steps up,” D’Esposito wrote in a Facebook post with a video of protestors smashing windows. “Shafik’s out of her depth – resign.”

Columbia protesters referenced the antiVietnam War protests of 1968, when students occupied the same building, according to NBC News.

The minority caucus also said the compensation for the special deputies is illegal.

The advertisement soliciting applicants states the emergency special deputy sheriffs would be paid $150 a day. The minority caucus referenced county legislation that requires such individuals to be paid no more than $3 an hour, unless a different compensation amount is approved by the Legislature.

The compensation of the special deputy sheriffs did not face the legislature for a vote of approval.

In an April 12 letter from Bynoe, a member of the legislature’s Public Safety Committee, she said there were lapses of information that inhibited the public and the legislature’s ability to fully understand the program. The minority caucus said the concerns in her letter have not been addressed yet.

“You are arrogating to yourself power you do not have to advance an inflammatory and illegal political stunt that wastes time, money, and attention that should be devoted to our County’s real issues and concerns,” the letter states. “We call on you to abandon it immediately.”

F.P. college student in coma

Continued from Page 12

yet stepped forward, police said. Sheehan and Hawkins said they are “deeply troubled by the unconscionable depravity shown by the driver” and urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement officials.

A GoFundMe designated to raise funds for Kropf’s surgeries and recovery has reached $62,170 of its $70,000 goal, according to the GoFundMe website.

“Hi my name is Christine Loper. My best friend Roni Fornabia’s daughter Alexa Kropf was away at college and the victim of a hit and run,” the GoFundMe site description said. “Alexa is going to need multiple surgeries and will have a VERY long recovery… Roni will need to be by her side and will need assistance with medical bills and will be out of work as well.”

The accident came just days before Kropf was set to finish her first year at college.

“Our thoughts are most immediately with the injured student and her family and friends as she begins what we hope will be a complete recovery,” Jordan Carleo-Evangelist, a University at Albany spokesperson, said in a statement. “It is heartbreaking any time a member of our community is seriously injured – but especially so near the end of the semester.”

Residential life staff at the university have been in contact with Kropf’s roommates and counseling and psychological services are available for all students, Carleo-Evangelist said.

The university is grateful for the police department’s efforts and urges anyone with information on the incident to step forward, Carleo-Evangelist said.

The Long Island student is a Floral Park Memorial High graduate.

“Due to the privacy of the family, the district has no comment, but Alexa and her family have all of our support and positive affirmations in her recovery,” Sewanhaka Interim Superintendent Thomas Dolan said in a statement.

A FAMILY TRADITION

Mineola senior Jack McCormack leads Mustangs with scoring

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

The garage door at the McCormack house in Mineola has taken its lumps over the years, of that there is no doubt.

It’s taken its welts, its crunches, it’s dents: you name it, this covering that for most people houses old lawn furniture and toys has been positively destroyed by the three boys of the family.

Between Peter, now age 25, and Michael, 21, and youngest boy Jack, 18, the garage has seen thousands upon thousands of lacrosse balls whacked at it, in pursuit of excellence in this most Long Island of sports.

“Our backyard was destroyed too, but mostly the garage door, just so many holes in it,” Jack McCormack said, with a knowing laugh. “We just all loved to play so much, that it was all we wanted to do.”

All that passing, shooting and garage-door crunching has worked out OK for the McCormacks; Peter played at SUNY-Oneonta, while Michael is currently on the Nassau Community College team.

And Jack, well, he might be the best goal-scorer of them all. Starring at Mineola High School like his siblings, McCormack is finishing off a fine career in style during his senior season.

After pouring in 48 goals in 2023, McCormack has roared to a fantastic start this spring. In his first nine games the attack has scored 34 goals and added 15 assists as Mineola got off to a 7-2 start.

All that has led to McCormack earning a scholarship to play close to home, at Division I St. John’s next year.

“He’s just a natural, plus he’s been playing lacrosse since he could walk,” Mustangs coach Jim Durso said. “His stick skills, his vision, it’s all elite, and he’s really helping us a lot.”

McCormack is quick to give his teammates like Rusty Carr and Joe O’Connell credit for peeling defenders off him with their dangerous shots, and said that following his brothers’ example has always paid off.

“Just watching all their games and seeing how hard they worked, and how dedicated they were, made a difference for me,” he said. “And all those hours practicing, and the time spent in the PAL (league) here as a kid, helped me a ton.”

McCormack has been a four-year varsity starter for Mineola, and Durso said he recognized early on that the

BY LEAH DESENA

kid was more than just a lacrosse legacy.

“He’s just always been a kid who listened to his coaches and immediately fixed whatever was wrong,” Durso said. “And every day he’s come to practice with a smile on his face.”

McCormack is marked whether he’s playing midfield or attack, and of course the better teams always have No.1 for Mineola in their sights.

But this year he netted a pair of goals against both Floral Park and Lyn-

brook, two of the top opponents Mineola faces.

“You just try to score and make (the opponents) quiet, because they try to chirp me a lot,” McCormack said. “I don’t talk much, I just try to play my game.”

McCormack, also the quarterback for Mineola’s football team last fall, said he looked at several different schools to continue his lacrosse career but really bonded with Justin Terri, the head coach at St. John’s. The Red

Storm compete in the Big East Conference.

“Once I met him I knew I wanted to play for him,” McCormack said. “The chance to play Division I lacrosse and be close to home was something I really wanted.”

Durso said McCormack will likely need to bulk up to be effective in college, adding 10-15 pounds of muscle, but feels his star can handle the challenge.

For the rest of this season, McCor-

mack, who now has more than 200 points in his career, is hoping the Mustangs can go on a deep playoff run in Class B.

The words of Kid Cudi run through his head before each game, and McCormack is hoping he’ll be getting psyched up well into May this year.

“I think we’re going to go deep,” McCormack said. “We’ve got a lot of experienced players and I know I’m really motivated to finish my career here strong.”

PHOTO

Mineola senior Jack McCormack (in white) has scored more than 200 points in his career, and will play at St. John’s next year.

69 SUMMIT ROAD , PORT WASHINGTON

Set on a quiet interior street in the coveted Beacon Hill section of Port Washington, this 5-bedroom, 3-bath Tudor home with modern expansion, will delight you in all the best ways. The floor plan is open flowing, yet has distinct spaces that you will find easy and comforting. The sunlit main living room with wood burning fireplace and soaring ceiling adjoins the home office with sleek glass doors and the formal dining room. An oversized eat-in kitchen has a center island, breakfast area and large food pantry, and access to the lovely private yard with slate patio. All 5 bedrooms and laundry are on the 2nd floor. The primary en suite has a gas fireplace, walk-in-closet and full bath with steam shower. Both the walk-up attic and lower level are unfinished. CAC, 2-car attached garage. Beacon Hill beach association with fees. A truly wonderful home and convenient to all. MLS #3543540. $1,949,000.