The Nassau Observer 3/30/22 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

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Serving Levittown, Massapequa, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Plainview & Old Bethpage Also serving: Island Trees, Wantagh, Seaford, Massapequa Park March 30 – April 5th, 2022

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In Hicksville: Downtown Revitalization Committee seeks input (See page 3)

In Farmingdale: Robotics team heads to Dallas for World Championship (See page 7)

In Levittown: Local resident founds college ice hockey team (See page 10)

In Massapequa: Philharmonic makes Adelphi University debut (See page 15A)

Gas Relief Mulling a gas tax ‘holiday’ (See page 3)

The Nassau Observer (USPS 586-660)

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Vol. 76, No. 11

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MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022 • ANTON MEDIA GROUP

Yarrell Ametewee, RPA-C Joins FemmPro OB/GYN

Yarrell Ametewee, RPA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in women’s health. She joins our team of seasoned providers that make up FemmPro OB/GYN, practicing in our Massapequa office.

Inspired by her mother who is a medical sonographer, Yarrell started her medical career as a graduate of St. John’s university which is a highly competitive, intensive physician assistant program. She has first-hand experience working with patients across Long Island.

Yarrell distinguishes herself as a women’s healthcare advocate. She strives in recognizing and preventing healthcare disparities against patients with diversified backgrounds.

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Hicksville Downtown Revitalization Initiative Seeks Community Input

TYLER MROCZEK

editorial@antonmediagroup.com

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owntown Hicksville’s Long Island Rail Road station will soon receive expansive improvements. Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the town board agreed to begin revitalization projects in various areas within Hicksville’s community as early as this year.

The Hicksville Downtown Revitalization Initiative was initially proposed in 2018, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The detailed enhancement plan was composed by the Oyster Bay Town Board and input from members of the Hicksville community.

Given the economic collateral damage caused by the pandemic, this revitalization project couldn’t have come at a better time.

According to a November 2020 survey commissioned by the Rauch Foundation to better measure COVID-19’s impact on Long Island’s business and downtown districts, more than a third of all downtown businesses projected a loss of upwards of 50 percent of revenue in 2020 compared to prior years.

“This study shows that there has been much pain and disruption in most Long Island downtowns, especially those at the center of low income and minority communities,” Rauch Foundation President Nancy Rauch Douzinas said. “This report outlines clear and actionable steps that our elected officials and leaders from other sectors can take today to aid recovery in all communities and get Long Island’s businesses back on track.”

The Hicksville Downtown enhancements come as a result of a $10 million New York State grant specifically designed for downtown revitalization in small communities throughout the state, as well as more than $1.1 million in federal funding set aside by the Saladino administration. Nassau County

Local officials including Legislator Rose Walker (front, second from right) addressing residents at the most recent Hicksville Downtown Revitalization Initiative meeting. (Photo courtesy of Hicksville Community Council) also provided $150,000 for “beautification and safety improvements.”

Among various planned upgrades included in the revitalization program are an expansion of John F. Kennedy Park, beautification along local railroad tracks and a brand new pedestrian bridge known as the Festival Pathway. The majority of the Downtown Revitalization funding will be used for better pedestrian safety and walkability.

These extensive developments were passed after a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Saladino’s administration and the Oyster Bay Town Board in hopes of creating new opportunities for housing, restaurants, local businesses and offices.

The improvements’ intended results are for better service at Hicksville’s Long Island Rail Road location, while limiting its impact on commuter parking and other surrounding public facilities.

At a Hicksville Community Council meeting earlier this month, Town of Oyster Bay Deputy Commissioner of Economic

Randy Cares

Development Jim McCaffrey answered questions from residents about various outstanding infrastructure projects, including the Downtown Revitalization project and what the town intends to do with the vacant Sears building on 195 N. Broadway.

According to McCaffrey, the Sears project is still under evaluation, though the Gregory Museum exterior project will begin in April.

“These revitalization projects, along with the zoning changes recently approved by the town board, incorporate years of collaboration between the town and Hicksville community,” Saladino said in regards to Hicksville station’s planned renovations.

“With the scope of these revitalization plans more defined, the town can now proceed with the design phase of the projects and get shovels into the ground next year.”

Saladino’s administration explained it will meet with the MTA (Metropolitan Transit Authority) regularly in order to organize and further discuss plans to improve the Hicksville station, which serves as one of Long Island’s largest travel hubs. One of the many proposed expansions is a new parking

garage.

Hicksville residents passionate about the various revitalization projects will have the opportunity to express their concerns regarding the developments at the upcoming community council meeting on April 4 at 7p.m. at the William Bennett Community Center.

The meeting will focus on any quality of life issues involving Hicksville or the county, while educating community members on who to contact in order to take action. The community council’s main discussion will address the work involving the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which may include another speech by McCaffrey in regards to developments in Hicksville.

Construction and other physical refinements have not yet begun, though elected officials hint that work will start later this year. Most of the initiative’s decisions will be made using public input and are intended to make Hicksville more accessible.

—Additional reporting done by Dave Gil de Rubio —Tyler Mroczek is a contributing writer for Anton Media Group

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TOP STORY

TOP STORY

The Cost Of Eliminating Gas Tax FRANK RIZZO

frizzo@antonmediagroup.com

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he rapid rise in oil prices and supply problems and instability has translated into pain at the gas pump.

State legislators from both parties are introducing bills that would suspend a portion of the approximately 48 cents in taxes and fees that New Yorkers pay for each gallon of gas—among the highest in the nation. They hope to incorporate some kind of relief in the final budget, which has to be adapted by April 1. Governor Kathy Hochul has expressed ambivalence about the idea, though it passed in the state Senate as part of its proposed budget.

Senator Anna Kaplan (D–Great Neck) said in a statement, “The pain at the pump is real, and we need to do whatever we can to help Long Islanders fill up without breaking the bank. I was proud to vote to cut the gas tax in New York, and I’m calling on Nassau County to follow our lead and do the same thing so that people in our community can get some real relief from these rising costs.”

But critics warn that the resulting loss of more than $1 billion in revenues to the Dedicated Highway and Bridge Trust Fund (including support for the MTA) would need to be made up by taxpayers in other ways, even as the state is flush with cash from federal pandemic relief. Much of the gas tax money is used to fund road/bridge repairs and maintenance.

In the Nassau County Legislature, the Democratic Minority Caucus support a proposal that would temporarily suspend the county’s share of sales tax on gasoline (about 4¼ percent).

According to a press release, “Minority Leader Kevan M. Abrahams (D–Freeport) said this approach delivers meaningful relief to residents without jeopardizing Nassau’s fiscal health. Recent analysis indicates that the reduction in sales tax revenue caused by suspending the county portion of gasoline taxes would have a minimal impact upon the county’s projected sales tax surplus for fiscal year 2022.”

“Government has a responsibility to closely analyze every opportunity for minimizing as much pain at the pump as we possibly can,” Legislator Siela A. Bynoe (D–Westbury) said. “Paired with a renewed focus on preventing price gouging, this proposal would provide timely assistance to consumers during a tremendously

Gas prices have risen dramatically ever since they reached a low during the pandemic in 2020. turbulent period.” propaganda.”

Asked for comment, Legislature He added, “While parroting oil company Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello (R–New talking points won’t do a thing to help Hyde Park) said in a statement: “It is ironic Nassau residents make ends meet, susthat the Democratic minority is now conpending Nassau’s share of the sales tax on cerned about gas prices, when Democrat gasoline will. The members of the Minority policies have deliberately reduced energy Caucus remain committed to fighting for production, eroded America’s energy the relief that consumers need.” independence and directly increased the The Long Island state Senate cost of fuel.”

Republicans, on March 11, called for immeAs presiding officer, Nicolello controls diate suspension of the state’s gas tax. the legislative agenda and can choose not to bring the proposCampaign Fodder al to a vote.

Congressman Tom Suozzi Nassau County (D–Glen Cove), who is Executive Bruce seeking to challenge Blakeman said through Hochul in the upcoming Government has a a spokesperson: “The Democratic primary, responsibility to closely increase in energy knocked the governor’s analyze every opportunity prices is directly “flip-flop” on enacting for minimizing as much attributable to federal a state gas tax Holiday, pain at the pump as we and state policies that noting that he had called have decreased domespossibly can. for one on Dec. 16. tic production and relied “Governor Hochul’s —Legislator Siela Bynoe on foreign energy sources indecision on the issue is (D–Westbury) which have increased energy hurting New Yorkers in their costs and made us vulnerable to pocketbooks,” he charged. “First she foreign powers. I would hope that those said she’d consider a gas tax holiday, only minority legislators lobby their colleagues to flip-flop by now saying it won’t help. in Albany and Washington to reopen This is another example of how her lack of the Keystone XL pipeline and take other executive leadership is costing New Yorkers measures which would lower energy costs dearly. This common sense approach and make America more secure.” could be paid for with the billions that On March 15, Abrahams responded, New York already received from the federal “Last week, we proposed a straightforward government to address the pandemic. We way for Nassau County to ease the squeeze must enact this at the federal level, too. But that residents are currently feeling at the we can’t afford any more excuses from a pump. County Executive Blakeman and Governor that refuses to address skyrockthe Republican Majority are offering no eting taxes and the ninth highest gas tax in solutions—just the usual assortment of the nation.” finger-pointing, deflection, and political Suozzi supports the bipartisan Senate

(Pigsels)

and House legislation entitled the Gas Prices Relief Act of 2022.

Harry Wilson, who is vying with several others to win the Republican gubernatorial primary, also called for the gas tax holiday.

“Suspending the gas tax will help families keep more money in their pockets as the price at the pump soars,” said Wilson in a statement. “Suspending the state gas tax for six months is estimated to cost about $1.5 billion. And we can fully pay for it by freezing Hochul’s $10 billion slush fund and redirecting just a small portion of it toward relief at the pump.”

The leading Republican candidate for governor, Congressman Lee Zeldin of Suffolk County, has also backed suspending the state gas tax.

One of those who hopes to succeed Suozzi, Robert Zimmerman of Great Neck, is also supporting the legislation.

“The federal gasoline tax adds 18.4 cents to the price motorists pay for every gallon of gas. The loss of revenue to the Federal Highway Trust Fund can be made up by the Department of Transportation and should be due to the urgency of the situation,” Zimmerman said in a statement.

According to City & State, citing the Office of the State Comptroller, the state taxes per gallon is about 33 cents, divided into the motor fuel tax (8 cents), petroleum business tax (17.3 cents), state sales tax (8 cents) and gas testing fee (half a penny).

The state Dedicated Highway and Bridge Trust Fund received more than $1 billion in revenue last year from such taxes to help support construction projects, bond payments and downstate transit agencies like the MTA, according to the Office of the New York State Comptroller.

ANTON MEDIA GROUP • MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR THURSDAY, MARCH 31

SUNDAY, APRIL 3

Teen Program—Dungeons & Dragons 6:30 p.m. Register once for all sessions.

Attendees are invited to come down in person for a new adventure. Participants will work together to battle monsters and solve fantastical mysteries. Levittown Public Library, 1 Bluegrass Ln. For more information, visit www.levittownpl.org or call 516-731-5728. Through April 28. ............................

Farmingdale Ram Run 5K 8:30 a.m. The second annual Ram Run 5K at Farmingdale State College is open to runners of all experiences and will be fun for families of all ages. The event will begin with a free kids fun run and include refreshments and a health and wellness expo. Fees/admission: $25 per runner. Farmingdale State College, 2350 NY-110, Farmingdale. Visit https://events. elitefeats.com/ ramrun22 or email alumni@ farmingdale. edu. ................

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 One-Stop Passport Weekend 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Offices are located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave. in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Rd. in Massapequa.

Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and during this special Passport Weekend. To make an appointment or for more information, contact the office of Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca at 516-624-6343 or email townclerk@oysterbay-ny.gov. Visit www. travel.state.gov for information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals. Also being held on Sunday, April 3.

TUESDAY, APRIL 5

Movie Screening King Richard 1 & 6 p.m. Starring: Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton. Rated PG-13. 2 hours. 25 minutes.

Follow the journey of Richard Williams, an undeterred father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time,

Venus and Serena Williams, who will end up changing the sport of tennis forever. No tickets required.

No fee. Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbor Ln., Massapequa For more information, visit www. massapequalibrary.org or call 516-799-0770. ............................

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 Wantagh Library Board Of Elections Forum 10 a.m. Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh.

For more information, contact Sharon Marchese at smarchese@wantaghlibrary.org or at 516-221-1200.

James Coll And The Constitution 1 p.m. Everyone’s favorite Constitutional Scholar is at East Meadow Public Library once a month.

James Coll leads conversations about the Constitution, its ramifications and possible interpretations. Always fascinating, always valuable. Register at www. eastmeadow.info or call 516-794-2570 and ask for programming. A Zoom link will then be emailed the morning of the program.

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE: NAVAL WEAPONS INDUSTRIAL RESERVE PLANT BETHPAGE, NEW YORK RESTORATION ADVISORY BOARD (RAB) MEETING

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Bethpage Senior Community Center

103 Grumman Road West, Bethpage, New York Open House: 6:30 p.m., Meeting begins at 7 p.m.

The public is encouraged to attend either in-person or virtually.

The in-person meeting will comply with all applicable COVID restrictions, including any applicable social-distancing requirements.

By Internet: https://tinyurl.com/BETHPAGE6APR Event Password: APR6RAB (by phone: 2776722) Telephone: (408) 418-9388 Access Code: 2633 584 5702 Computer and mobile device connectivity can be tested 30 minutes prior to the start of the meeting through the WebEx application, or by telephone. If you experience technical difficulties, contact WebEx technical support directly at (866) 779-3239 The Navy is pleased to announce the 49th meeting of the Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) for Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP) Bethpage (former Grumman facility).

The RAB is a forum for the Navy and regulatory agencies to exchange information with official RAB community members on environmental programs underway at NWIRP Bethpage. Agenda topics will discuss updates on current activities at NWIRP Bethpage. All RAB meetings are open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to attend, but please note there will only be a limited amount of time for public questions following the scheduled RAB presentations.

For more information, please contact: NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs 9324 Virginia Ave., Norfolk, VA 23511-3095 Email: NAVFAC_ML_PAO@navy.mil Telephone: (757) 341-1410/11

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Further instructions for the upcoming virtual RAB meeting are provided on the Navy website for NWIRP Bethpage under Community Relations at: https://go.usa.gov/DyXF

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Ulysses At 100: Liberation Or Regression?

JOSEPH SCOTCHIE jscotchie@antonmediagroup.com

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his year won’t just be another June 16. For bibliophiles in Dublin, Ireland and around the English-speaking world, it marks the centennial of Ulysses, the 1922 novel by James Joyce, a thick book that ushered in the rise of modernism in literature.

June 16 is referred to as “Bloomsday,” in recognition of Leopold Bloom, the protagonist of the novel. Ulysses covers a day in the life in Dublin of this unlikely hero and his friendship with Stephan Dedalus, subject of Joyce’s previous novel, Portrait of An Artist As A Young Man. The date was also when Joyce met Nora Barnacle, a working-class Irish woman who eventually become Joyce’s wife and mother of their two children.

As with any artist, Joyce lived an unstable life. The eldest of 10 children, Joyce was a contradiction of sorts. His Jesuit education served him well. Joyce was a polyglot. Once he left his native Dublin, the young Joyce was able to support himself and his young bride Nora with teaching jobs in Italy and Switzerland, while he wrote poems, short stories and novels.

Bloom was an unlikely hero: A salesman without many prospects, a cuckold, a Jew in a Catholic country and man grieving the death of his son Rudy.

Joyce loved Dublin. He left a place in order to discover it. The man never moved back to his hometown. Still, that same Dublin was the subject of his literary output, not just Ulysses and the unreadable Finnegan’s Wake, but Dubliners, a short story collection that brilliantly portrays the poor folk that Joyce grew up with and admired for their tenacity in spite of permanent hard times. The city was Joyce’s metaphor for the world at large. The man believed that if he could penetrate the reality of Dublin, he could unlock many mysteries to the universe.

Dublin comes alive in Ulysses. Bloom makes his rounds, trying to sell advertising at a local newspaper, but he is mostly caught in a dreamlike state. The death of Bloom’s son, the loss of his father through suicide and his wife’s habitual infidelity weigh heavily upon him. Bloom and Dedalus have a chance meeting in the newspaper offices. This is where the novel comes alive.

Does his friendship with Dedalus ease the pain of his loss? The novel is an old-fashioned story of male bonding.

Bloom, in truth, doesn’t have much to look

forward to. He tries to be a moral man in an immoral world, itself the typical theme of the modern novel.

The story of the book’s publication is fascinating as well. Both Dubliners and Ulysses were published by Sylvia Beach, proprietor of the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris. There is footage of Joyce giving a reading at that same bookstore, which was also frequented by Ernest Hemingway, Ezra Pound, D.H. Lawrence and Andre Gide, among others.

Joyce clearly was relieved to have the hefty manuscript in print.

That publication was just the beginning. It wasn’t until 1933 that Ulysses was published in the United States. Writing in time-tested legalese, Judge John M. Woolsey declared that “...whilst in many places the effect of Ulysses on the reader…is somewhat emetic, nowhere does it not tend be an aphrodisiac.”

Ulysses as an epic grows with each passing page. Joyce attempted to compress the entire range of human emotions, plus history itself, into a single day. The reader, whether sitting on a park bench or a comfortable sofa, is immediately taken back to that day, June 16, 1904, and the everyday life of Dublin, beloved by the author. As with William Butler Yeats, Ireland’s poor were Joyce’s poor. Unlike Yeats, who once served in the Irish senate, Joyce needed distance to sing of the “indomitable Irishry.”

As important is the stream-of-consciousness technique, including countless interior monologues. Joyce’s relentless prose turns an ordinary man, Bloom, into an epic hero.

Prior to Ulysses,, that role was generally confined to men of action, usually kings or soldiers.

Ulysses has held up well. The man has both supporters and detractors.

Was Joyce a traditionalist or an artist determined to break down Christian morality?

Portrait Of An Artist As A Young Man dramatizes the young Dedalus’ desire to break free from his Jesuit education. Ulysses follows a more traditional mode. To tell the

story of modern man in the city, Joyce revived an ancient story of Homer’s Odyssey.

Homer’s hero was a man who valued honor above all virtues. Bloom tries to uphold his own in a more deracinated time.

The novel has been criticized for unnecessary crudeness and vulgarity. Did it corrupt the English language? We’ll save that for the 1962 publication of D.H. Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover.

Since then, countless talented writers have succumbed to the juvenile prose on that novel’s final pages.

Writers will have to re-learn that great literature need not bombard the reader with puerile language.

Was Bloom trapped in his own melancholy?

The novel begins and ends with a marriage in ruin and not much hope of redemption.

Still, Bloom plunges forth into the hurly-burly life of turn-of-the-century Dublin. He might find deliverance there. The city is as much a character as Joyce’s collections of braggarts, misfits, adulterers, mystics, poets, dreamers and bored housewives.

Which way for Ulysses? In our time, Joyce is hailed as a literary rebel, a man who considerably expanded the world of possibility. For others, a man who foolishly tried to replace religion with mere prose.

Which way? Turn off the television set and read the novel for yourself.

James Joyce Bibliography Prose

Dubliners (1914) A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916) Ulysses (1922) Finnegans Wake (1939)

Poetry collections

Chamber Music (Elkin Mathews, 1907) Giacomo Joyce (written 1907, published by Faber and Faber, 1968) Pomes Penyeach (Shakespeare and Company, 1927) Collected Poems (Black Sun Press, 1936, which includes Chamber Music, Pomes Penyeach and other previously published works)

Play

Exiles (1918)

Above, James Joyce (Photo by Man Ray/publicdomain)

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DOMINICAN VILLAGE ROUNDUP

District 8 Senator Brooks Honors Black History Month Community Nominee Albert Belcher

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ominican Village Security & Safety Director Albert Belcher, Sr. was recently selected by New York State Senator John Brooks as the 2022 District 8 Black History Month Community Nominee.

New York City native Belcher Sr. has given his full commitment to the city and state he calls home. He has been in positions of service for his entire adult life and was an active member of his community, where he engaged in outreach including his school, church and St. Albans Veteran’s Hospital.

As a New York City Police Department (NYPD) officer, he was assigned to many departments including Latent Print Unit, CPOP- Community Police Officer Program, Highway Patrol, Special Operations Division Internal Affairs, assistant to the Chief of Patrol, assistant to the 1st. Deputy Police Commissioner and assistant to the Police Commissioner. Additionally, while in the department, Belcher was very active in the Guardians Association, becoming one of the youngest chairman of the board of The Guardians Association. He was instrumental in diversifying highway patrol units across the boroughs to be more inclusive of persons of color. Additionally, Belcher worked closely with the head of the Guardians Association for equitable representation of members of the department.

played a major role in keeping all residents, employees and visitors at Dominican Village safe. He is also a certified COVID-19 Compliance Officer. He took the initiative to be trained in this program and applied much of what he learned and applied it to his work environment. Safety policies and protocols were developed and systems were implemented to further safeguard the well-being of the entire Dominican Village community.

Today, Belcher continues to be committed to safety. He is a longtime member of

the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) and a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). He is an asset to his family and community. All who know him can be assured that he is dedicated to service and the enrichment of the lives of others. He is a beacon of strength to all who truly have the pleasure of knowing him personally and professionally.

Dominican Village congratulates Mr. Belcher on receiving this prestigious award.

—Submitted by Dominican Village

Albert Belcher, Sr. (Photo courtesy of Dominican Village)

He has been currently serving as an executive board member of the Central Long Island Branch of the NAACP for more than 10 years.

After retiring from the NYPD, Belcher joined Dominican Village as director of security, where he has been for 16 years.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Belcher

NYSCAL Noble Caregiver Assisted Living Award 2022 Diana Schinnerer has been an activity assistant at Dominican Village for five years, where she strives to improve the quality of life for residents on a daily basis.

During the pandemic, Schinnerer worked hard to keep residents engaged and active through chair exercise, hallway Bingo, afternoon music sessions, snack cart visits and fitness classes aired through the facility’s community channel to keep its residents active.

Schinnerer is an immensely creative individual who puts all her efforts into daily programming. One of her most successful and well-attended bi-monthly programs is “Armchair Travel.” She creates an environment where residents are culturally immersed in locations around the world without leaving the comforts of Dominican Village. She even makes personalized boarding passes for every resident in attendance.

Dominican Village congratulates

Janet Pianese and her therapy dog Amy (Photo courtesy of Dominican Village)

NYSHFA-NYSCAL Volunteer Of The Year Award Diana Schinnerer (Photo courtesy of Dominican Village)

Schinnerer in receiving the New York State Center of Assisted Living Noble Caregiver award.

Congratulations to Janet Pianese and her therapy dog Amy for being selected as Volunteer of the Year by New York State Health Facilities Association & New York State Center of Assisted Living (NYSHFA-NYSCAL).

Since 2011, Janet & Amy have dedicated themselves to swinging by Dominican Village on a weekly basis. Senior residents light up with excitement when Janet and

her therapy dog Amy come to visit. Pet therapy contributes to better physical, mental and emotional health for all people, but specifically aids with seniors who are at an increased risk for social isolation and loneliness. Dominican Village appreciates their commitment and dedication to serving its seniors.

—All pieces submitted

by Dominican Village

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AFYA Foundation Receives Ukrainian Relief Help

early two dozen Temple Beth Torah congregants of all ages gathered together on the morning of Sunday, March 20 to organize and pack up hundreds of pounds of donated items including soap, toiletries, first-aid supplies and diapers collected by temple members and the Jericho community, including the Jericho School District, in support of the AFYA Foundation’s Ukrainian disaster relief aid effort.

“As Jews, we know all too well what it means to be left vulnerable and without a home,” Temple Beth Torah Rabbi Dermer said. “We feel called in our mission to help heal our broken world, and to support those in need, wherever they may be. The situation in Ukraine is dire as millions of civilians are enduring the devastation of war which is now raging across many parts of their country. It is gratifying and inspiring to witness the generosity of the entire Jericho community who have quickly come together to support the people of Ukraine. I wish to

thank all those who donated to this important disaster relief effort and to our congregants who have both given to AFYA and helped organize and pack the donations which are now ready to be delivered to Ukraine.”

Founded in 1960, Temple Beth Torah is a Conservative synagogue dedicated to finding meaning in traditional Judaism for the modern, changing world. As an inclusive congregation, temple members strive to know each other not just as fellow congregants, but as members of an extended family. Temple programing covers diverse topics and interests, combined with a focus on community involvement, providing members with opportunities to explore Judaism past and present and connect with the world around them. Educational programing at the temple has focused on teaching and helping its children understand the Jewish religion, culture, Hebrew language, traditions, prayers and history in a warm, supportive environment

while building a connection with Israel. The religious school also features an advanced computer lab with SmartBoard technology and individual workstations for each student that reinforces learning in a fun and interactive way. To learn more about Temple Beth Torah, please Visit www.templebethtorahli.org/ or follow the temple on Facebook.

The AFYA Foundation collects unused medical supplies and equipment from throughout the New York metro area and gives them a second life. Domestic regulations require that enormous volumes of supplies must not be reused. As a result they are destined for local landfills. AFYA ships these critical materials to under resourced and compromised health systems all over the globe, thereby improving access to healthcare, the quality of care delivered and the retention of local providers. Visit www.afyafoundation.org for more information on the AFYA Foundation.

—Submitted by Temple Beth Torah

Members of Temple Beth Torah packing up (Photo courtesy of Temple Beth Torah)

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Legislator Joshua Lafazan Applauds State Anti-Terrorism Funding For Local Law Enforcement

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he Nassau County Legislature recently and unanimously approved the allocation of $455,070 in funding received through the New York State Office of Homeland Security’s State Law Enforcement Terrorism Program (SLETPP)— which provides law enforcement agencies with resources to purchase and/or supplement their capabilities in detecting, disrupting and preventing acts of

terrorism.

Of those dollars, $133,452 will be set aside for Nassau County Police training and exercises; $31,548 will be utilized for fringe benefits and $290,070 will be dedicated toward equipment purchases.

“At this critical moment in the history of the world,

protecting Nassau County residents from all domestic and foreign threats to their safety and security must be our top priority,” Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan (D - Woodbury) said.

“Every dollar that we can dedicate to equipping and training our law enforcement professionals to

prevent terrorism is money well spent and I thank New York State for delivering this crucial funding in support of Nassau County’s outstanding first responders.”

—Submitted by the office of Legislator Joshua Lafazan Legislator Joshua Lafazan (Photo courtesy of the Nassau County Legislature)

Councilwoman Maier Launches Pet Food & Supply Drive In Partnership With Long Island Cares Hunger affects all family members, including pets

Councilman Laura Maier recently announced that the Town of Oyster Bay will host a Pet Food & Supply Drive in partnership with Long Island Cares. The drive will take place through April 15, with a focus on collecting for the family members most vulnerable to hunger—residents’ pets. Long Island Cares formed Baxter’s Pet Pantry in 2009 to assist in feeding dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, caged pets, fish, reptiles and all others considered family members.

“Pets truly are members of our family,” Maier said. “Pet food and supply donations will help furry friends in need, which in turn keeps pets at home with their loved ones. The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with LI Cares to collect generous donations for this worthwhile cause.”

The creation of Baxter’s Pet Pantry by Long Island Cares has helped distribute more than one million pounds of pet food, all of which has been donated through pet food drives like this one and corporate donations.

“Unfortunately many beloved pets are placed into shelters or given away because families cannot afford the necessary food and supplies,” Maier added.

“When struggling families have to make choices to heat their homes, buy medication or feed their own families, pets can become an afterthought. Pet food drives like this one can be a real lifesaver for

both pets and their families.”

Those interested in supporting the Town’s Pet Food & Supply Drive can place donated items in drop off boxes located in the following Town of Oyster Bay locations:

• Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay • Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa • Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, 1001 Stewart Ave., Bethpage Regular business hours for the locations are Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

For more information, visit www.

Town of Oyster Bay Councilwoman Laura Maier (Photo courtesy of the Town of Oyster Bay)

licares.org or call Esther Alter in the town’s Public Information Office at 516-624-6380.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Making A Difference To Combat The Opioid Epidemic YES & MTAC deliver virtual Naloxone training

Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC) is partnering with YES Community Counseling Center (YESCCC) and St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church to provide Opioid Abuse and Overdose Prevention Education for families and concerned community members on Thursday, March 31, at 7 p.m. via Zoom.

Expanding the awareness and availability of naloxone is a key part of YESCCC and MTAC’s public health response to the opioid epidemic. YESCCC continues to deliver free opioid prevention education and naloxone training across the Massapequas including local governments, first

responders, schools, organizations, parents and residents.

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that is used to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, namely slowed or stopped

breathing. Naloxone is a safe antidote to a suspected overdose and, when given in time, can save a life (Surgeon General of the United States Public Health Service).

To register for the free

Naloxone Training visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/ meeting/register/tZYocOirrjssG9GGOZ0zlRRqiLVeV6oq4Y-G Residents can also email info@ mtacoalition.com or contact MTAC Project Coordinator Maura Ebert at 516-799-3203, ext. 229. You can also visit the MTAC website or Like/Follow MTAC on Facebook page to learn more about MTAC’s meetings and initiatives in the prevention of prescription drug and opioid misuse.

— Submitted by the Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC)

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR DEMOCRACY REQUIRES GETTING OFF OUR BUTTS administered the law among all relatives, boarders and workers on their land. Parents taught law and literacy to their children. In England, families contributed labor to the castle guard, just as in America, men rotated duty as night watchmen. Both democracies had extensive militia and jury duty requirements.

Today, Americans shirk even jury duty and can’t be bothered to vote in local elections. We have withdrawn from charitable causes, and civic, electoral and church participation. We are too busy with social media, video gaming, Netflix binging, on-line shopping, porno and the new sports gambling craze to be of

Karl V. Anton, Jr., Publisher, Anton Community Newspapers, 1984-2000 Publishers of Glen Cove/Oyster Bay Record Pilot Great Neck Record Manhasset Press Nassau Illustrated News Port Washington News Syosset-Jericho Tribune The Nassau Observer The Roslyn News Editor and Publisher Ange l a Sus an Anton

COLUMNS

An An

ton Me

Embracing 65 And All Its Glory One of my earliest Massapequa Observer columns from 2017 broached a very personal subject for me. After writing a few columns about life in Massapequa, my editor liked them so much she asked me to keep submitting something every week. Although Massapequa is a beautiful place to live and raise a family, developing a Massapequa-themed column each week would not be easy.

So, I reached into my bag of tricks and decided to submit a column about me.

I submitted a humorous column with the catchy title of “The ‘S’ Word,” detailing my inner feelings about turning sixty. It turned out to be one of my most popular columns and helped launch my career as a columnist, broadening my pool of exciting subjects to talk about.

In the five years since the publication of that column, I’ve had more than 230 columns published, won a bunch of Media Awards from the Press Club of Long Island (“Long Island Living” was voted best column in 2021), and published two books. Not too shabby, eh?

But now, I stand on the precipice of turning 65.

Many people from my generation never thought about getting this old. In our eyes, surviving until 65 meant an automatic end of our working days and transitioning into sweet retirement. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work that way.

First things first. For my age group, the Social Security retirement age for full benefits is 66 and a half, not 65. That moves the calendar out to August of 2023 for me. That doesn’t mean I will retire at that point; it just means I can. Of course, I could retire tomorrow if I want

service to our country and our fellow human beings.

The shame falls squarely on business, political and even church leaders, who regularly invite us to lead highly privatized lives dedicated to their products, services and causes. Can’t we do better?

Kim Shinkoskey

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LONG ISLAND LIVING Paul DiSclafani pdisco23@aol.com

m After so much dis me confusio n State Ed cussion, the Ne and uc has mo ation Departmw York mentaril plan to y abando ent rai requirem se minimum ned its Math Re ents for its En passing gli standardgents exams ab sh and sco re which wa of 65. Th ove the of Educ s led by Comme plan, ati was the on MaryElle issioner n lat moveme est in what ha Elia, ing standnt towards ad s been a jus some ba ards, which ha ted testparents cklash from tea s faced alike. chers an d The de began in partment’s ini tia year priorMay 2014, rou tive gh a memo to Elia’s arriva ly a change was issued reg l, when to “aspir ard Brianna for the ational ing a Salinaro afo at one of which wo rementioned scores” her tourna ments (Ph dents rec uld have requirexams, otos sub English eive at least a ed stumitted by 75 on the Regents Brianna Math Re and an Salinaro ge 80 ) nts on , scores under Pe which falthe rfo rm ance Le Class of l ve high sch 2022, which wo l 4. The

BY JENNI school ool during the uld enter ye 20 jfauci@ FE the first ar, would have 18-19 antonm R FAUCI class aff ediagro family rec ected. Hobeen up.com At an ag wever, daughte eived the news their fir e where most See REGE st slew of r’s life would be that their NTS on pa Brianna steps and lea babies take ph Salinaro ge 3 rn tal and ysical and so met with a Cerebral Salinaro was dia to walk, em me Heart Un, a current fresh grew up otional chall times men1, the Ma Palsy. At the ten gnosed with en , prepari iversity in Co man at Sacred ssapequ de with ph her childhood ges. As she nn ng to be a reside r age of ysi SPECIAL ever to come the ecticut, is nt and he and bu cal encounter was amassed SECTION co lly r INSIDE Paralym mpete in the first female to succuming by classm s, therapy Taekwo pic ates. b to her ndo “Growings. many tri Refusing up with bulation Cerebral s, Palsy See

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and begin collecting social security.

Camps & As the youngest in my group Schools of friends, some have already retired. My wife turned in her papers to the New York City Police Department over ten years ago. They all talk about the freedom and the perks of benefits (it does not). no longer working.

Somehow, turning 65 doesn’t But I’m still working. I have seem quite as traumatic as an excellent job with Northwell turning 60. I never worried that I’m in no rush to give up. about making it to 30, 40 or 50. I I had hoped that when I was was actualready to ly looking retire, my forward to wife and I those. But could travel 60 was a and do different things withstory, a out regard real shock for vacation to the days from system. It work. But wasn’t a even that is milestone being put Despite having many friends basking in on hold as retirement, columnist Paul DiSclafani will be birthday I waiting a year to put in for Social Security was looking I try and forward work out to. Now, I am secretly looking some back pain issues since forward to the next couple of falling off a step stool last April. milestones, mainly to see if I I signed up for Medicare can make it to them. last month, and suddenly, I’m Now that 60 is in the rearview paying more attention to those mirror, and 65 is here, I’m commercials with Joe Namath learning to embrace it. While and Jimmy JJ Walker. I wonworking out my back problems, dered if my zip code made me I’ve noticed people are very eligible for all those additional

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In Athens, young adults spent two years in public service.

Many over 30 formed a huge city council to make laws for the population. In Rome, citizens had extensive and regular civic duties.

Elected officials served only oneyear terms, so many would have the opportunity of being leaders.

In Israel, land-owning parents

kind to someone with a cane. It’s like I’ve suddenly turned into a pretty girl. Guys open doors for you or politely ask you if you need help. Soon, I’ll get a handicap sticker for my car and become one of those guys who rage against people parking illegally in those spots.

I’m blessed to have gotten this far in life, and I’m certainly not ready to punch out. I’ve got so much to look forward to (like my son Kevin’s wedding this year) and plenty of columns to write for you, dear reader.

Thank you for tagging along with me on this journey we call life.

We’ve got a lot more to talk about…

Paul DiSclafani’s new book, A View From The Bench, is a collection of his favorite Long Island Living columns. It’s available wherever books are sold.

Director of Business Administration L inda Baccol i

For circulation inquiries, email: subscribe@antonmediagroup.com Publication Office: 132 E ast Second St., M ineol a, N Y 11501 Phone: ( 516) 747-8282 Fax: ( 516) 742-5867 ©

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IN BUSINESS 1984-2022

Letters to the editor are welcomed

by Anton Media Group.

We reserve the right to edit in the interest of space and clarity.

All letters must include an address and daytime telephone number for verification. Al l material contrib u ted to Anton M edia G rou p in any form b ecomes the p rop erty of the new sp ap ers to u se, modify and distrib u te as the new sp ap er staff assig ns or sees fit. L etters to the editor can b e mail ed to: editorial @antonmediag rou p .com Additional copies of this and other issues are available for purchase by calling 516-403-5120.

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COLUMNS

County Task Force Readies To Combat Anti-Semitism Last year, I was given the opportunity to run for the Nassau County Legislature representing District 10, which primarily covers Great Neck, Kings Point, Lake Success, Manhasset, New Hyde Park North, Searingtown, and several other areas in northwest Nassau County. A major piece of my campaign platform was a commitment to fight against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate. Having experienced these behaviors while growing up and as an adult I know firsthand the pain and scars that these evils can leave behind. Fortunately, the voters in November responded favorably by electing me to the legislature and I fully recognize

LEGISLATIVE REPORT Mazi Melesa Pilip

the importance this new assignment represents.

As part of my efforts to further the fight against anti-Semitism,

I was recently selected to serve on the newly formed Special Legislative Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism. This special body was created by the legislature under the leadership of Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello and with the full support of County Executive Bruce Blakeman and tasked with collecting information and gathering information from the public and a variety of resources, including governmental and community leaders, law enforcement personnel, clergy, members of academia and other knowledgeable individuals and institutions that will make suggestions and proposals to raise public awareness of and

combat anti-Semitism in all its manifestations.

All told, there will be 26 members of the task force made up of some of my fellow legislators and a representation of 18 members of the Nassau County community who possess diverse backgrounds in opposing anti-Semitism and intolerance while exhibiting leadership in their respective fields.

Included in the outreach will be one or more public hearings that will allow any interested county residents to provide further input as well as a public comment period that will accept written commentary as well.

Ultimately, the task force will be submitting recommendations

for any legislative action that should be considered by the full legislature. That process is targeted to occur, if possible, by Yom HaShoah on April 28.

I am honored and privileged to be chosen to serve on the task force. I look forward to working with the entire task force with the goal of developing meaningful and lasting recommendations and producing results that will meet anti-Semitism head-on and benefit our Jewish friends and neighbors. Certainly, there is much work to accomplish, and I relish the challenges that lie ahead. I will continue to keep you apprised as the process further unfolds.

How To Pay For A New LaGuardia Airport Transit Connection The original proposal goes back to 1943. The City Board of Transportation proposed an extension of New York City Transit’s BMT Astoria line (today the N & W lines) from the Ditmars Boulevard terminus station.

There was another proposal back in the 1990’s to extend the subway beyond the Ditmars Boulevard Station. It died due to local community opposition.

There always was a better option to improve public transportation connections to LaGuardia Airport as opposed to former Governor Cuomo’s $2.05 Billion Air Train. .

Here is how to pay for MTA NYC Transit subway extension to La Guardia. Check out the link to the Federal Aviation Administration. www.faa.gov/ airports/pfc/pfc_updates/media/ pfc_75_21_rail_access_policy. pdf. There is also the Federal Transit Administration. The next step would include attempting to qualify this project for Federal Transit Administration capital funding under various programs. This could include Urbanized Formula 5307, State of Good Repair 5337 or Federal Highway Administration CMAQ (Flexible Congestion Mitigation Air Quality) or other FHWA programs. (These funds can be transferred to the FTA for funding transit projects.) Another option is requesting permission to enter this project into the FTA national competitive Capital Investment Grants (CIG) 5309 New Starts or Core Capacity

PENNER STATION Larry Penner

programs. This is a three-step process. First step is to obtain permission from the FTA for entry into either the New Starts or Core Capacity programs. This would include completion of the federal environmental review process (NEPA) resulting in the FTA issuing a finding. FTA will determine if the project will require a more detailed full blown Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), versus a simpler Environmental Assessment (EA).

This could easily require one to two years. The second step would be obtaining the FTA permission to enter and complete final design and engineering.

This would require one to two years. The third step would be negotiating an FTA Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) for the project. This would include a final project scope, budget, schedule, project management plan and fleet management plan. This process, once you are admitted, averages about five

The proposal to extend New York City Transit’s BMT Astoria line (today the N & W lines) was first broached back in 1943. (Photo by Adam Moss/CC BY-SA 2.0) years before FTA would offer the MTA a Full Funding Grant Agreement to pay for the project.

The MTA would have to come up with between 50 to 67 percent local match. FTA would probably accept FAA passenger fees as an eligible contribution toward the local share. You could have a three-way 33 percent share each between the FTA, FAA and MTA. If all the planets aligned, you might be able to assume admission into the FTA CIG program in 2023, you might see an FFGA in 2027 or 2028. If construction started in 2028 or 2029, it might be completed some time between 2033 and 2039, with service starting between 2033 or 2039. I suspect that the final cost

by the time any subway extension is built and will easily end up several billion more than the previously proposed $2.05 billion Air Train.

There would be no need for MTA NYC Transit to build a new maintenance and storage yard.

Existing equipment already in use on the N & W lines could be used. The MTA NYC Transit might have to purchase additional rolling stock to maintain rush hour head ways. I would suspect that this would be no more than 40 to 50 additional subway cars at a cost of between $2.5 to $3 million each.

The MTA obtained billions in funding under the FTA CIG program to help pay for the $11.2

billion LIRR East Side Access to Penn Station and $4,5 billion NYC Transit Second Avenue Subway Phase 1.

Almost 80 years later, extending the Astoria, Queens subway line is still the best rail option.

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer, who previously worked for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office. This included the development, review, approval and oversight for billions in capital projects and programs for the MTA, NYC Transit, Long Island Rail Road, Metro North Rail Road, MTA Bus along with 30 other transit agencies in NY & NJ.

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The Amazin’ Mets Foundation recently partnered with America’s VetDogs, a New Yorkbased national nonprofit that provides specially trained service dogs to veterans and first responders with disabilities. (Photo courtesy of the Amazin’ Mets Foundation)

America’s Vetdogs Gets A Hand From Amazin’ Mets Foundation

First-ever MLB service dog will be trained and placed with disabled U.S. veteran or first responder

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he Amazin’ Mets Foundation (AMF), the philanthropic arm of the New York Mets, is pleased to sponsor a future service dog in partnership with America’s VetDogs, a New York-based national nonprofit that provides specially trained service dogs to veterans and first responders with disabilities, to name and co-raise a future service dog.

The AMF Pup is an adorable, 11-weekold, male, yellow Labrador Retriever, who will undergo basic training and socialization with the AMF staff, New York Mets’ players and fans for the next 16 to 18 months. The pup will have a home in the Met front office, attend community events and select home games at Citi Field to expose him to various environments that will help mold him into a confident and calm future service dog. Fans can follow the pup on Instagram at @MetsVetDog to stay up to date on his training and local appearances.

Fans recently cast votes to name the new team pup via the @Mets Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. The winning name, TKTKTK, was announced on March 23.

“We are very excited to be sponsoring our first future service dog with America’s VetDogs,” AMF President Alex Cohen said.

“We hope that this AMF puppy will bring awareness to an organization that provides

renewed independence to veterans and first responders, as well as create fun and interactive opportunities for our fans.”

“America’s VetDogs is thrilled to partner with the Amazin’ Mets Foundation on co-raising the team and league’s first future service dog,” America’s VetDogs President/ CEO John Miller said. “The Amazin’ Mets Foundation’s passion for supporting our nation’s heroes aligns with our mission to provide trained service dogs for veterans and first responders with disabilities. This opportunity offers a unique environment for the pup to grow and thrive in. A well-socialized puppy will have fewer adjustments to make when he returns to VetDogs for advanced service dog training. When it’s time, that confidence will help someone with disabilities conquer any challenges they may face together as a team.”

It costs more than $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog; however, all of the VetDogs’ services are provided at no charge to the individual.

Funding comes from the generosity of individuals, corporations, and service and fraternal clubs.

Visit VetDogs.org for more on America’s VetDogs and ways to get involved.

—Submitted by the Amazin’ Mets Foundation

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WE LOVE OUR PETS

“H

e is five-foot-four when he stands on his hind legs; no one has to bend down to pet him, even if they are lying in a hospital bed; Cooper just walks up and puts his face right next to theirs,” Damore said. “Cooper has gentile eyes; when they see his eyes, they just want to hug him to death.”

Bideawee’s pet therapy program is designed to explore all of the benefits that the relationship between people and pets can provide.

“Although Bideawee staff spends a lot of their time finding forever homes for the dogs, cats, puppies and kittens in our care, we really focus on the human-animal bond as a whole. And that encompasses so much more than adopting and fostering,” said Leslie Granger, CAWA, president and CEO of Bideawee. “We are proud to go into the community and provide a symbiotic connection between our animals and people who might be experiencing illness or stress.”

The program launched in 1986 and currently has more than 60 active therapy teams.

“I have been doing this for many years now,” said Damore. “Falcor, my Great Pyrenees, was my first therapy dog, back in 2013.” Cooper began his service as a pet therapy dog four and a half years ago, when he was three years old.

“One of the types of facilities our generous pet therapy teams frequent are local hospitals,” Granger said. “These institutions have been under an exorbitant amount of stress lately and it’s so rewarding to provide a smile to patients and staff alike; as COVID restrictions lift and things become more normalized, we hope to bring Bideawee’s pet therapy teams into more hospitals.”

Some dogs are restricted to the kinds of tasks and situations that they are suited for. The best of the best receive a “complex” mark on their certification.

It’s A Horse–No, A Bear Pet therapy with dogs becoming best cure for stress

Cooper visits with Annette, a patient at St. Joseph’s recently.

BY CHRISTY HINKO chinko@antonmediagroup.com

Cooper has a fan club.

“‘He’s a bear; he’s a horse; he’s just too big; what do you feed him’,” Lou Damore said are some of the things he hears about Cooper, his 130-pound puppy each week during pet therapy visits to St. Joseph Hospital in Bethpage. Cooper, not actually a puppy, is a seven-and-a-half-year-old Leonberger, who has earned one of the top levels of certification for pet therapy through Bideawee in Wantagh. The Leonberger breed of dogs are obedient, loyal and loving gentle giants.

Photos courtesy of Lou Damore.

“Cooper has a ‘complex-level’ certification, meaning he can go anywhere, in any kind of therapy scenario,” said Damore. Situations can range from one-on-one interactions, group settings, children, elderly, wheelchair-bound, bed-ridden, high-energy situations, confined spaces, etc.

“Some dogs can’t handle all of that stimulation,” Damore said. “The trainers will bring a group of people in; they will test their response to having someone approach in a wheelchair; they might see how they react to someone on crutches or moving with a walker; they test with a lot of noise and commotion.”

The owners are also trained to respond properly to different

scenarios, and how to handle their dogs in certain situations. Dogs and their owners are reevaluated every two years to ensure they remain fit for the program.

Many of the dogs in the program are retrievers, labradors and huskies because of their disposition.

“It is not necessarily the size of the dog that matters, but more about their demeanor,” said Damore.

“Cooper is just an amazing dog.”

The Leonberger breed first appeared in the United States in the early 1900s from Germany, popular as farm dogs, used to pull carts. Male Leonbergers can weigh as much as 160 pounds and stand just less than three feet at withers (back height). At first glance they

are intimidating because of their size and muscular stature, but within seconds you understand that this regal beast is intelligent and kind. There is nothing better than an interaction with one of these dramatically massive canines.

Cooper has participated in storytimes at libraries, test-taking destress events at Hofstra University and therapy situations at other local schools and hospitals.

“When you are there and see the smile on these patients’ faces, it makes you take a step back,” Damore said. “Some patients don’t get visitors or they have dogs of their own at home that they are missing.”

Cooper and his human see

Cooper makes new friends. more than 40 patients at St. Joseph Hospital in Bethpage on Thursdays.

Damore said, “Recently, one woman was having a tough time during her hospital stay and hadn’t smiled in two weeks while she was there. When Cooper walked in, she lit up.”

Patients also love receiving one of Cooper’s personal business cards during their hospital visits. He has his own following on Facebook (@ CooperLeonberger).

Requests can be made through Bideawee (3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh) for pet therapy visits.

Visit www.bideawee.org to learn more about the organization or to learn how to become a Pet Therapy Team Member.

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HOMES

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Change Detector Batteries

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This fantastic private oasis sold on Feb. 25 for $1,275,000. It is nestled on two acres at 5 Lattingtown Ridge Ct. in Lattingtown. This Colonial home features a welcoming entry foyer, a large living room and a family room, each with fireplaces. It has a formal dining room and an eat-in kitchen. There is a first floor en suite which is a perfect guest suite or home office with its own entry. There is a large master suite with two closets upstairs including three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. The full basement is finished and includes a large cedar closet. The magnificent grounds are beautifully landscaped and professionally maintained with spacious patios and an in-ground heated pool, mature plantings and total privacy.

This five bedroom hi ranch home at 42 Michael St. in Lattingtown sold on Feb. 18 for $887,750 and has splendid water views. The chef’s eat-in-kitchen has granite countertops and new stainless appliances. The spacious dining room has sliding doors leading to wood deck and a view of the water. The sunny living room has a vaulted ceiling and double windows. The luxurious master suite has beautiful views and an updated master bathroom. The lower level den has a wood burning fireplace and sliding doors to an outdoor patio that is perfect for entertaining. The grounds have beautiful specimen trees, perennials and an outdoor shed.

This home is close to the beach and is situated on a protected tidal national wildlife preserve.

pring is officially here, so it is an ideal time to “spring into action” for home safety, by changing the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly if left undetected.

When fuels such as natural gas, butane, propane, wood, coal, heating oil, kerosene and gasoline don’t burn completely, they can release carbon monoxide into the air. Common sources of carbon monoxide include malfunctioning forced-air furnaces, kerosene space heaters, natural gas ranges, wood stoves, water heaters, fireplaces and motor vehicle engines.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending on the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and length of exposure, symptoms may include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, fluttering of the heart or loss of muscle control.

If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home, go outside immediately and call 911. Next, call National Grid’s gas emergency contact number at 800-490-0045 for Long Island/ Rockaway Peninsula. Do not return to your home until the carbon monoxide source is found.

—National Grid

CORRECTION Special nod to one vigilant reader in Garden City who brought conflicting information into question in the article, “How To Get Newly Sodded Lawns Off To A Healthy Start,” by Valerie Smith in Anton Media Group’s March 9 edition of the Home & Design page.

Smith explained that a newly sodded lawn should be watered twice a day for the first nine days after sod is placed. While this is correct information for caring for a newly sodded lawn, this contradicts regulations by local municpalities for sprinkler usage year-round.

Nassau County prohibits watering lawns between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the year. Homes and businesses with even street numbers are permitted to water on even days. Homes and businesses with odd street numbers are permitted to water on odd days. Homes and businesses without street numbering are permitted to water on even days.

Speak to your lawn care specialist to learn more about care for your particular renovation.

—Christy Hinko

Homes shown here represent closed sales, sold by a variety of agencies and are selected for their interest to readers by the Anton Media Group editor.

Except where noted, data and photos are provided courtesy of Multiple Listing Service of Long Island, Inc. and Zillow.

Thinking of buying or selling a home?

Spring Is Here

That Brings Us Cheer!

Call me today for a market analysis.

Shikha Rawat

Lic. R. E. Salesperson O 516.627.2800 | M 646.415.2420 shikha.rawat@elliman.com elliman.com

© 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. NY 11746. 631.549.7401.

110 WALT WHITMAN ROAD, HUNTINGTON STATION,

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Cradle Of Aviation Museum

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he Cradle of Aviation Museum and Education Center is an aviation and spaceflight museum located in East Garden City on Long Island that recently received the Heart of the Community Award. Its mission is to commemorate Long Island’s part in the history of aviation and to educate and interest youngsters in aerospace science and engineering. The museum is located on land which was once part of Mitchel Air Force Base and which, together with nearby Roosevelt Field and other airfields on the Hempstead Plains, was the site of many historic flights.

The Cradle of Aviation Museum’s vision is to become the leading center of aerospace and technology education through the preservation of artifacts and expanding educational opportunities toward the development of an innovative workforce for the region.

Larry Tenenbaum, chair of Jaspen Schlesinger LLP’s Education Law Practice Group, served on the museum’s board of trustees for a number of years.

He and the firm are longtime supporters of the Cradle of Aviation and continue to encourage and support the museum’s efforts to reach out and engage Long Island’s youth in aerospace, science, engineering and related fields.

—Submitted by Jaspen Schlesinger LLP

Photo from left: Cradle of Aviation Executive Director Andrew Parton and Lawrence Tenenbaum of Jaspan Schlesinger LLP (Photo courtesy of Jaspan Schlesinger LLP)

Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Long Island Since 1977, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island has believed that every child should have the opportunity to reach his or her own full potential both as individuals and citizens. By doing so, they will not only do well, they will also do great things.

The organization recently received the Heart of the Community Award.

Jothy Narendran, co-managing partner at Jaspan Schlesinger LLP, has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island for nearly 20 years. She is a longtime supporter of Holiday for Kids’ Sake Program, which helps to provide holiday gifts and meals for Big Brothers Big Sisters mentees and their families during the holiday season. Narendran was a former Big Brothers Big Sisters Gala Honoree.

—Submitted by Jaspen Schlesinger LLP Jaspan Schlesinger LLP Co-Mananing Partner Jothy Narendran and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island Chief Executive Officer Mark Cox (Photo courtesy of Jaspan Schlesinger LLP)

Send Us Your Pet Photos Harriet the miniature bull terrier and Loretta Lynn the Great Pyrenees puppy of New Hyde Park are besties. Let’s see some pictures of your pets. Email your photo with your pet’s name and hometown to Christy at specialsections@ antonmediagroup.com.

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Nassau County Legislature Passes $2m For SEPTIC Program Program grants eligible property owners up to $20,000 for nitrogen-reducing septic upgrades impact to groundwater, in one of New York’s most vulnerable watersheds. These new nitrogen-reducing septic systems are a great step forward to protecting our water.”

Tens of thousands of homes and small businesses in Nassau County are currently served by cesspools and septic systems.

Reversing degradation of water quality will depend on replacement of existing systems with new, individual Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (I/A OWTS) designed to remove nitrogen.

When properly designed, sited, installed, managed and maintained, these new septic systems provide a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to sewers

A PET IS ONE OF LIFE’S GREATEST GIFTS

North Shore Animal League America rescues and cares for thousands of animals each year.

By leaving a gift as part of your will or trust, you ensure your love of pets lives on.

CONTACT US FOR INFORMATION LEADER IN THE NO-KILL MOVEMENT

516.812.7218 animalleague.org/greatestgift giftplanning@animalleague.org A 501(c)3 not for profit, charitable corporation Photos by Ellen Dunn

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in areas that are outside designated sewer areas. These systems significantly reduce nitrogen, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids, before being discharged below grade to leaching structures.

I/A OWTS can provide greater performance reliability and reduce the number of pump outs for homeowners that currently pump out their wastewater systems more than once per year.

Eligibility requirements:

• Single-family, two-family, not-for profit organizations and small businesses with an existing sanitary design flow less than or equal to 1,000 gallons per day (GPD) may be eligible for this program.

• The project must be a replacement of

an existing septic system or cesspool with a new nitrogen-reducing IA OWTS. The IA OWTS must have been installed after March 1, 2018 to be eligible for the SEPTIC grant funding.

• Have a valid certificate of occupancy or existing use issued by the pertinent city, town or village.

• Be served by an existing septic system or cesspool and not be connected to a public or private sewer or located within an existing or proposed sewer district.

If the property is in an existing sewer district but is unable to connect due to site constraints documented by the sewer district in question, the property may be eligible, provided the applicant meets all other eligibility requirements.

• Not have any outstanding or open real property tax liens.

For more information, visit www. nassaucountyny.gov/5191/Nassau-Septic or contact SepticReplace@nassaucountyny. gov or 516-364-5861.

—Submitted by the Nassau County Legislature

COSMETIC SURGERY TODAY

STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S. DOMINATES NY PLASTIC SURGERY

REFRESH YOUR FACE + BODY THIS WINTER My state-of-the-art surgical centers, med spas and dermatology offices bring a fusion of art and science to the pursuit of age-defying beauty. My five locations are the facilities of choice among men and women who seek rejuvenating skin care procedures in a relaxing and pampering environment*. My licensed medical estheticians use only the most advanced technology combined with clinical skin care products to provide real solutions for clear, smooth, and younger looking skin. By creating an individualized balance of medical science and cosmetic beauty treatments, our patients receive optimal results. If you are noticing fine lines, skin laxity, dry patches, clogged pores, and age spots, this is the perfect time to renew your skin and begin a treatment regimen which will provide a refreshed ,healthy and glowing appearance.

We provide a thorough evaluation of your skin care needs and design the appropriate treatment and product protocol to address your specific areas of concern. Whether you are seeking the most advanced laser hair removal system, wrinkle reduction, skin tightening, cellulite reduction, fat reduction, acne treatment or injectable service such as Botox®, Restylane® or Juvederm®, we are truly dedicated to meeting the needs of each individual patient. In addition, the latest anti-aging solutions, such as Morpheus8, build collagen and tighten the skin on the face and body providing outstanding results without downtime!

Our cutting-edge treatments bring you everything you need to resurface, restore, and rejuvenate your skin.

My goal is always a natural outcome to enhance my

patients’ unique features. I count on my doctor-patient relationships as one of the keys to providing the best experience. Many of my patients wish to see an overall change in their silhouette, even if they are coming for facial rejuvenation. I have been combining facial surgery with body contouring with minimal downtime for over 27 years. I specialize in combining advanced surgical techniques with the latest technology to customize each patient’s treatment plan and achieve their desired goals from head to toe.

Whether you are looking to refresh your facial appearance or enhance areas of the body resistant to diet and exercise, I have helped thousands of men and women achieve a more youthful look and restore self-confidence.

My rapid recovery mini face-lifts are game changers for men and women who require more permanent solutions to facial aging. An eyelid lift takes years off one’s appearance and when combined with body procedures will provide life changing results.

Now is the time to have the cosmetic procedures that you have been wanting in a safe and caring environment.

Myself and my award-winning team are here to help you be your best possible you. Whether you are looking for a new skincare regimen, a facial refresher or more of an overall transformation, my decades of experience combined with the most technologically advanced devices available will have you looking your best in the shortest amount of time possible. Love your look and feel your best, call 516-364-4200 or visit www.greenbergcosmeticsurgery.com for your complimentary consultation.

Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg is a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery. He has offices in Woodbury, Southampton and Manhattan. For a complimentary consultation, call 516-364-4200 if you have a question for Dr. Greenberg, please e-mail him at docstg@aol.com, or visit the web at www.GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com

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he Nassau County Legislature recently passed a supplemental appropriation of a $2 million grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The grant funds the septic system replacement grant program for residents and small businesses allowing them to replace their conventional or failing cesspools/septic systems with environmentally friendly, state-of-the-art technology that reduces nitrogen—Septic Environmental Program to Improve Cleanliness (SEPTIC).

This EFC funding has been matched with an additional $2 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan, which will bring the total SEPTIC grant to 50 percent of cost up to $20,000 per applicant.

“Water quality is not only important to our way of life here in Nassau, but it is also a critical component of our local economy,” Nassau County Legislature Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello said. “Traditional cesspools and septic systems have a significant environmental and public health

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Adelphi Goes InsideOut With The Massapequa Philharmonic DAVE GIL de RUBIO dgilderubio@antonmediagroup.com

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onsider David Bernard to be the Johnny Appleseed of classical music.

Given his role as conductor of the Massapequa Philharmonic, a position he’s held for six years, it comes as no surprise.

The zeal he has for this genre of music has led him to find unorthodox ways of spreading the gospel of Beethoven and Mozart.

He’s teamed up with Dr. Jackie Faherty of the American Museum of Natural History and Hayden Planetarium for a February 2020 performance of Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” at the Madison Theatre at Molloy College. And during the pandemic, he entered into a unique agreement with the Nassau Museum of Art to present live music at the mansion and on the 145-acre grounds of the former Frick Estate located at One Museum Drive in Roslyn Harbor.

His latest endeavor is far more direct— having the Massapequa Philharmonic make its Adelphi Performing Arts Center debut on Sunday, April 3, via the “Slavonic Serendade,” featuring special musical guest, Gold Medalist and international cello soloist Zlatomir Fung. But as is usually the case with Bernard, he offers a unique twist for potential concert-goers—the opportunity to purchase a number of InsideOut seats, which place audience members onstage with the musicians.

It’s something the Great Neck native developed and is regularly featured by the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony in New York City and other symphony orchestras including the Greenwich (CT) Symphony and the Danbury (CT) Symphony.

It’s a crucial part of Bernard’s classical music outreach for both children and adults. And while he recently led an InsideOut concert for third-graders at Massapequa’s Berner Middle School this past Sunday, he feels its just as important a tool to use in providing that connection with grown-ups.

“One of the things that is critical in the schools is trying to recruit students to take up an instrument and play it in an ensemble, which [InsideOut concerts] are really effective at doing,” he said. “For the music world, the most important thing you do is for the adults. I just did an InsideOut concert and had an amazing testimonial from this fellow who said, ‘I’ve attended concerts

Conductor David Bernard in action with the Massapequa Philharmonic (Photos courtesy of the Massapequa Philharmonic)

Recent concert-goers taking part in an Inside Out listening experience with the Massapequa Philharmonic

Cello soloist Zlatomir Fung

all over the place, but this experience was life-changing to experience this on stage.’

The interesting thing about it is it doesn’t matter if you’ve been to a lot of concerts or haven’t been to any concerts. If you have an InsideOut seat in a concert, it’s incredible and it can turn somebody into a classical music fanatic who has never been to an orchestra concert. It’s that experience that causes musicians to become fanatics over classical music.”

Recruiting Fung to play at the Massapequa Philharmonic’s Adelphi debut was also a major get for Berner, who is overjoyed that audiences will get to hear

the youngest winner of the prestigious XVI International Tchaikovsky Competition (“...that’s like having the best play the best”). All the more so given the “Slavonic Serenade” program features Brahms’ “Variations on a Theme by Haydn,” Liszt’s “Les Preludes” and Dvorák’s “Cello Concerto.” “[Zlatomir] has been on my radar for quite a while,” Bernard said. “The story of him being the youngest person to win the Tchaikovsky Competition is legendary. It was very exciting because I was finally able to arrange to get him to do this concert.

I was looking for something like this for

Adelphi. The Adelphi Performing Arts Center is a beautiful venue. The acoustics are top-notch and it deserves something like Zlatomir. That’s where it comes from.”

Berner is not shy about using his access to Fung in a way that young people can benefit. In addition to the Berner Middle School InsideOut concert, the conductor had the Bulgarian-Chinese musician take part in the Massapequa Philharmonic Masterclass at Massapequa High School the following day. It was here that three Massapequa High School students were coached by Fung on specific pieces they were working on. The Massapequa Philharmonic Masterclass Program was established with the Massapequa Schools as a way of expanding the orchestra’s impact on the community and its students. Events like these all play into Bernard’s mission to convince people about the accessibility of classical music, despite all the high culture trappings that might be associated with it.

“There is nothing inherently intimidating about classical music,” Berner explained.

As someone who admittedly got his start with classical music through Looney Tunes and Bugs Bunny, the Juilliard-trained musician used this inspiration to start learning how to play piano when he was around five and later added clarinet to his musical arsenal when he was nine. Through it all, Berner never saw his learning more about classical music as his having to go down some insurmountable path. Instead, he embraced this genre as music that’s been baked into our collective pop culture DNA via its extensive use in film and television.

It is a sensibility that fuels his desire to have people fall in love with classical music the way he has.

“There is nothing intimidating about classical music or about coming to a classical music concert—there shouldn’t be,” he said. “Part of it is that we all think, ‘Do I know enough or have I been trained enough to appreciate this kind of music?’

The point is you are perfectly fine as you are to appreciate the music given how it is everywhere. The music, the performers and concert itself—if its doing its job, you are going to have an amazing time just taking all of this in because the key is that it’s really about the visceral experience of the performance and the musicians.”

Cello soloist Zlatomir Fung will be performing with the Massapequa Philharmonic on April 3 at the Adelphi Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. Visit https://sforce.co/3pVjzMV to purchase tickets. Visit www.massphil.com for additional information.

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NASSAU COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY ROUNDUP

Queens Man Sentenced To Jail Time For Immigration Scam Edier Alberto Alvarez stole $74,000 from more than 40 victims seeking assistance with their immigration cases

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assau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly recently announced that a Queens man, who misrepresented himself as an immigration attorney to immigrants seeking assistance and stole $74,000 in total from more than 40 victims, has been sentenced to 364 days in jail.

Edier Alberto Alvarez, 36, of Queens, N.Y., pled guilty on Nov. 18, 2021 before Judge Teresa K. Corrigan to grand larceny in the fourth degree (an E felony). He was recently sentenced to 364 days in jail.

This plea and sentence were the result of a joint effort between the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office; the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Fraud Detection and National Security Unit at the New York Asylum Office; and the Queens County District Attorney’s Office.

“This defendant posed as an immigration attorney and stole tens of thousands of dollars from dozens of victims who

believed they were his clients, exploiting them as they attempted to navigate the legal system with sensitive immigration matters,” Donnelly said. “We encourage anyone who believes they may have been victimized to contact the NCDA Office of Immigrant Affairs at 516-571-7756.”

Queens County District Attorney Melinda Katz said, “This defendant preyed on vulnerable immigrants seeking citizenship in the United States. The victims were duped by this charlatan who took their money and dashed their hopes. I want to thank the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office and our other law enforcement partners for their dedication to bringing justice to the 40 victims in this case. Anyone who believes they have been similarly victimized please call us at 718-286-6690.

We are here to protect you regardless of your immigration status or the language you speak.”

According to the investigation, between 2017 and 2019, while the defendant was working as a paralegal in a Nassau County law office that focused on immigration law, the defendant misappropriated payments from his employer and employer’s clients who were seeking assistance with their immigration cases and misrepresented himself as an attorney to prospective clients of the firm, accepting money directly from them to assist with their cases. In both instances, the individuals seeking help paid money and did not receive any services.

During the course of the investigation, the NCDA learned that the Queens County District Attorney’s Office had also received complaints from seven additional individuals in 2020 alleging that Alvarez had been passing himself off as an immigration attorney or immigration specialist, accepting money to provide assistance to “clients,” and failing to do so.

In total, Alvarez received approximately $74,000, which includes money taken from his employer and from more than 40 victims in Nassau and Queens.

The Nassau County District Attorney’s Office wishes to thank the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Fraud Detection and National Security Unit at the New York Asylum Office and the Queens County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.

If you believe you were the victim of Edier Alvarez, contact the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office of Immigrant Affairs at 516-571-7756.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Betty Rodriguez of the Financial Crimes Bureau. The defendant is represented by Geoffrey Stewart, Esq. —Submitted by the office of the Nassau County District Attorney

Hempstead Bloods Gang Member Convicted At Trial For May 2020 Shooting Trevor Ford shot victim after altercation at Bedell Street and Terrace Avenue; defendant has multiple open cases in Nassau Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Hempstead gang member was convicted on March 15 of assault and weapons possession charges for a May 2020 shooting in Hempstead.

Thirty-year-old Trevor Ford was convicted of two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon (a C violent felony), second-degree assault (a D violent felony) and criminal possession of a firearm (an E felony).

The trial, before Judge Fran Ricigliano, began on March 8 and the jury deliberated for two days. Ford is due back for sentencing on May 11, and faces a potential maximum of 22 years in prison.

A mistrial was declared with regards to a charge of first-degree attempted assault.

That case is due back in court on April 4.

“Trevor Ford walked up to the victim in broad daylight, at one of the most pedestrian-trafficked intersections in the county, and shot the Trevor Ford man without (Photo courtesy of the hesitation,” Nassau County Police Donnelly Department) said. “This defendant calmly walked away with the gun in his hand and then fled the scene.

Thanks to great police work, he was

apprehended approximately one month later and I thank our prosecutors for ensuring that justice is served.”

Donnelly said that according to the indictment, on May 15, 2020, at approximately 7:15 p.m., Ford approached the victim on the corner of Bedell Street and Terrace Avenue. After a verbal altercation, Ford took out a loaded firearm and shot the victim once in the leg.

The victim was taken to NYU Langone Hospital (Winthrop) and suffered a left leg fracture and required emergency surgery to prevent further damage to the leg.

The defendant fled and was arrested by the combined efforts of the Nassau County Police Department, Hempstead Police Department and Nassau County Sheriff’s Office.

Ford is currently facing charges in multiple open cases, including an attempted murder from May 2019, in which he allegedly shot a man at 100 Terrace Ave. in Hempstead, and a narcotics trafficking conspiracy from 2019, in which he is accused of conspiring to purchase and distribute cocaine.

This case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Charles Dunn of the Narcotics, Firearms and Gangs Bureau. The defendant is represented

by Jonathan Rosenberg, Esq. and Craig Herskowitz, Esq. The charges in the open cases are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty.

—Submitted by the office of the Nassau County District Attorney

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The War On Ukraine And The Legacy Of World War II Museum of American Armor to field Education Day that connects history to headlines

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tating that today’s headlines about Russia’s war on Ukraine were written some 80 years ago as a grim legacy of World War II, the Museum of American Armor, the Long Island Living History Association (LILHA) and Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation & Museums will conduct a joint educational field program that will allow thousands of Long Island high school students to strengthen their understanding of World War II and the shadow it continues to cast nearly a century later.

The event will be held on Friday, May 13, and pre-registration is now open to social studies classes across Long Island. The program integrates classroom curriculum with operational armor, military field tactics and mock small arms in open woods reminiscent of World War II France.

Lawrence Kadish, president and founder of the museum, said, “There has been a deliberate reduction in class time assigned to teaching history, and World War II in particular. As a result, many students have no context for what the world is seeing in Ukraine and how Putin is repeating Hitler’s playbook almost to the letter. We need to appreciate that today’s headlines were

On Friday, May 13, the Museum of American Armor will be hosting a joint educational field program that will allow thousands of Long Island high school students to strengthen their understanding of World War II and the shadow it continues to cast nearly a century later. (Photo courtesy of the Museum of American Armor)

written by history and this program seeks to address that.”

Gloria Sesso, the Armor Museum’s education coordinator and co-president of the Long Island Council for the Social Studies, explained, “This creates an immersion program for students that integrates classroom study guides with an extraordinary field experience. As the classroom returns to normal following COVID-19, this program regains the ability to tell the story of World War II, its legacy and why the chilling scenes we are seeing in Ukraine are yet another chapter written by that conflict.”

Dr. Libby O’Connell, History Channel Chief Historian Emeritus and Chairperson of the New York City World War I Centennial Commission, said, “This day-long program has the means to become a statewide model for field trips that place students in a period of time that remains a pivotal moment in world history. Those school districts that participate should be commended for going above and beyond the curriculum that seeks merely to `teach to the test.’

School districts may register for the event by emailing tvanwickler@nassaucountyny. gov or by phoning 516-572-8409.

—Submitted by the Museum of American Armor

Ballets With A Twist Presents Cocktail Hour: The Show This spring, the Madison Theatre at Molloy College raises a toast to entertainment with Cocktail Hour: The Show, by New York City-based dance company Ballets with a Twist. The performance will take place on Friday, April 1, at 8 p.m. and will feature the stage premiere of “Mirage,” a four-part suite safely choreographed, rehearsed, and produced for film between pandemic-induced lockdowns in 2020 and 2021.

The Show Created by artistic director and choreographer Marilyn Klaus, Cocktail Hour: The Show reinvents the glamour and excitement of classic entertainment with an original mix of charismatic choreography, intoxicating music and exquisite costume design. This pop-infused performing arts experience combines the magnetism of Hollywood’s Golden Age with a sleek 21st Century sensibility, capturing the timeless American spirit in a series of witty, sparkling vignettes.

It’s high-style fun for all ages to enjoy.

Single tickets are $35 to $50 and can be purchased at www.madisontheatre.org or by calling the Madison Theatre box office

the heat.

• “Manhattan”—After a big-city evening, a Park Avenue socialite steps out with her dearest companion, the soulful strains of a jazz trumpet echoing the mood of the changing skyline.

“Caipirinha” from Cocktail Hour: The Show (Photo by Nico Malvaldi)

at 516-323-4444. Additional information, including directions to the college (1000 Hempstead Ave.) and a campus map, can also be found on the venue’s website.

Program highlights include: • “Mirage” [PREMIERE]—Intrigue and illusion bloom in this urban desert suite as wild spirits discover oases of the imagination.

• “Rum Runner”—A spicy night in Cuba, a promenade through Puerto Rico, a samba in Brazil... This lively Latin suite brings on

The Company Klaus, whose choreography has been seen internationally, formed Ballets with a Twist in association with Grammy-nominated composer Stephen Gaboury and costume designer Catherine Zehr. Her company— lauded by The Huffington Post for “blasting the boundaries between high art and entertainment”—has appeared in a wide range of venues throughout the country, from Cleveland’s Playhouse Square and New York City’s Beacon Theatre to Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and the Tribeca Film Festival.

Gaboury’s compositions have been performed by celebrated musicians nationwide.

As a pianist, he has collaborated and toured the world with pop/rock icon Cyndi Lauper for more than a decade, most recently joining her alongside the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl

Orchestra at its historic home venue. He has also accompanied such artists as Patti Labelle, Norah Jones, and Sarah McLachlan, and has performed at internationally televised events such as the Nobel Peace Prize Award Ceremony and the New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop. Gaboury’s music has been heard in concert, on television, and in films (including Boyhood and American Beauty).

Zehr is the artistic force behind the company’s costume design. Her creations evoke the origins and essence of each dance with dazzling colors and ornamentation.

Zehr honed her skills while working at major American fashion houses, then by designing and manufacturing attire for her own label. She studied art and design at Washington University and New York City’s Fashion Institute of Technology, where she and the company delivered the presentation “Designing Costumes for Ballets with a Twist” as part of The Museum at FIT’s Fashion Culture series.

Visit www.balletswithatwist.com if you’re craving more Twist culture.

—Submitted by the Madison Theater at Molloy College

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Argyle Theatre Brings Great White Way To Babylon Mamma Mia latest production to come downtown

PATTY SERVIDIO editorial@antonmediagroup.com

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very old theater begs to have its story told, mostly because there is always an interesting tidbit of history that exudes from the rafters, saucy tales that could be told behind the curtain, a bit of knowledge to be gleaned from the stage itself. Most old stages from yesteryear don’t stand the test of time, having been razed to make way for “progress.”

The Argyle Theater of Babylon is not like most old stages.

The story began back in 1921, when a literary piece in the Babylon Leader stated that plans were underway for a theater for Main Street. The theater, which cost approximately $100,000 to build and furnish, was planned not only for residents, but to attract summer vacationers to the town of Babylon. It was called The Capitol Theatre and could accommodate 1,500 seats. The theater opened in 1923 with various performances daily, from vaudeville to Broadway adaptations of well-known shows of the era, such as East Side, West Side and Thorns and Orange Blossoms.

After two years, the theater reopened under new management and ownership as the Babylon Theatre, with modern flourishes which included a brilliant electric marquee.

The new owners ensured, “The heating plant has been overhauled and enlarged, assuring warmth and comfort at all times.

Several hundred people allegedly had to be turned away on opening night.

Babylon Theatre proved to be a long-haul survivor for decades as a modern movie house. Several changes in ownership, two fires, war and changes in the economy proved its staying power. It rode high as a successful theater until 2014, when the curtain came down for the final time and the stage went dark.

Enter the father-and-son team Perlman, who fell in love with the theatre and wanted to see it restored to its former glory. The building may have seen better days, but as Charlie Brown said about a rather sparse Christmas tree, the Perlmans realized that “All it needs is a little love.”

The New York State Empire State Development Corporation awarded a $150,000 grant to Dr. Mark Perlman and his son Dylan. The Perlmans had a mutual love for theater, as Dylan was a professional actor since the age of 11 and Mark proudly supported his son. You could say that their love

Cast and crew for Argyle Theatre’s production of Mamma Mia (Photos by Russ Rowland)

From left: Gina Milo, Julie Cardia and Jaelle Laguerre for the theater coursed through their veins, especially as both men are proud supporters of live theater and the performing arts. It has been their dream to bring Broadway quality theatre to Long Island. What better place to have that happen than the hopping Main Street in Babylon? It was a dream both men shared wholeheartedly.

The project to renovate the theatre cost roughly $4 million. Extensive damage had occurred over the years that the theatre was in obsolescence. Walls needed to be demolished, the stage needed to be rebuilt and the curtains and carpets had to be upgraded. Sound and lighting were overhauled completely. The Perlman team even had a bar added to the lounge on the second level. The original marquee was refurbished, which put the finishing touches on

From left: Mark Woodard and Jaelle Laguerre the Babylon Theatre’s massive facelift. The name was changed to The Argyle Theatre, which would become Long Island’s largest year-round venue for live theatre.

In 2018, The Argyle Theatre opened its doors once more with the musical Guys and Dolls. After the show’s successful run, the theater went on to host musicals, comedy acts, concerts and other performances. It was a wonderful boost for the downtown village, which had seen an up-tick of growth over the past few years. The renovation and reopening of the Argyle Theatre was just the shot in the arm that the village needed to make it a thriving business community.

On March 17, The Argyle Theatre presented their production of Mamma Mia. The Broadway hit, which was written by Catherine Johnson with music and lyrics from ABBA’s

Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, is directed and choreographed by Antoinette DiPietropolo, with musical direction by Jonathan Brenner. The show, which is executive produced by Mark and Dylan Perlman, with artistic direction by Evan Pappas, runs through May 1. The star-studded cast features actors from regional and international companies, as well as seasoned Broadway actors. The production run is Thursday through Saturday evenings at 7:30 p,m, Saturday afternoons at 2:30 p.m. and Sunday performances at 2 p.m. There is an additional performance on Wednesday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced from $45 to $79.

For ticket purchases or for more information on upcoming shows, please visit www. argyletheatre.com or call them directly at 631-230-3500.

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Graduating students at NYU Long Island School of Medicine celebrate matching with a residency program.

(Photo courtesy Jonathan Ortiz)

NYU Long Island School Of Medicine Students Learn ‘Doctor Destinies’ On Match Day JENNIFER CORR jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

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xcitement was in the air on March 18 as graduating students from the tuition-free, three-year program NYU Long Island School of Medicine, opened three years ago in Mineola, anxiously waited to find out where they will pursue their residency.

The nationwide event is called Match Day. On Match Day, graduating medical students discover where they will fulfill their residencies. In fact, the complex mathematical algorithm to match students with where they will pursue their residencies earned its developers a Nobel Prize in Economics.

“You have arrived at this day, which is a very special day,” said Dean and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Steven Shelov to the graduating medical students. “It’s also very important to us, because you are our first born.”

It was just two-and-a-half years ago the class embarked on their journey that they did not know would be complicated by a pandemic. Through the challenges, the students contributed critical COVID-19related research and volunteered to aid those affected by the pandemic. Dr. Shelov

NYU Long Island School of Medicine student Mittal Rana opens his envelope containing where he will spend his residency: NYU Langone Hospital — Long Island.

(Photo by Jennifer Corr)

described the members of the class as caring, dignified, professional, responsible, dedicated and resilient.

After the students officially graduate in May, they will begin their residency training programs.

“You are true pioneers,” Vice Dean Dr. Gladys M. Ayala said. “You came here with great excitement about our vision. You took a huge leap of faith and we thank you for that. You are not only our learners in this environment, but you are our partners in establishing this new medical school and it was because of your continued feedback that we have worked towards excellence. Be proud of yourselves.”

The group of students lined up to receive their envelopes holding information about what their next chapter would look like from the faculty who have worked with them these past three years. Then, everyone in

the room counted down until the students were able to open their envelopes, shortly after hugging their loved ones. Many were overwhelmed, wiping away their tears of joy and sharing with their classmates where they would be going next.

One of the students, Mittal Rana, will continue his journey at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island.

“It’s the best feeling,” Rana said. “It’s been a time of a lifetime. I’ve enjoyed every passing second with great friends, great mentors. Just the dedication of the staff to our growth has been phenomenal. This school’s really at the forefront of medical education, so I couldn’t have been more excited and more proud to be a part of this institution.”

Rana grew up in the Bronx to immigrant parents from India. The first to attend college at NYU, he volunteered as he

studied biology. The volunteer research he did in East Harlem centered on reducing the rate of childhood obesity among those living below the poverty line. His goal is to practice internal medicine to bridge disparities in health care.

“This match is truly spectacular in so many measures,” Ayala said. “Based on these match results... I could fully state that the concept of an accelerated three year program has proven itself because this match has been extremely successful.”

Ayala added that the NYU Long Island School of Medicine, no matter how near or far the students will go, will always be these students’ homes and that the faculty will always be there for them.

While the graduating students could be matched with any residency position nationwide, 40 percent of them have matched with NYU Langone locations and another 10 percent matched with institutions in the New York region. Most of the students have selected residencies in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology.

“This is really the culmination of all your hard work, all the work you’ve put in not only the last two-and-a-half, but for many years,” Associate Dean for Students and Diversity Dr. Nicholas Berbari said. “The first Match Day occurred in 1952 and it’s been tweaked over the years. It’s held every year now on the third Friday of March at all medical schools across the country, including our inaugural class of 2022 at NYU Long Island School of Medicine.”

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ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

Buddy Guy Still Has The Blues For You

Buddy Guy (Photo courtesy of PBS)

BY DAVE GIL DE RUBIO

dgilderubio@antonmediagroup.com

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he blues has always been a music form that’s found its proponents having a healthy respect for its roots and history, particularly in the case of younger musicians being sure to pay homage to the elder statesmen of the genre. Many of those musical pillars have become names in a history book, be it Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf or the three Kings—Albert, Freddie and most recently, B.B., who passed away on May 14, 2015 at the age of 89. With Buddy Guy having celebrated his 85th birthday last July 30, he remains one of the last pillars of the rich Chicago blues music scene.

Last year, PBS acknowledged Guy reaching the mid-point of his eighth decade on earth by releasing the documentary Buddy Guy: The Blues Chase the Blues Away, the latest chapter in the American Masters series.

In addition, the Louisiana native is the subject of another documentary, The Torch, whose main thrust is the tradition of passing on the blues torch.

And while expectations might be that Guy is enjoying his golden years kicking back, he’s instead playing live, pandemic numbers and social distancing regulations permitting. But it’s all secondary for this musical icon who was more than happy to participate in these projects about his life and his first

love—the blues.

“The way they treat the blues now, you don’t hear it on your big radio stations anymore,” he remarked. “Your big AM/FM stations don’t play blues hardly anymore. So whatever little I can do to help keep blues alive, I’m open for it.”

Throughout the hour and 23 minutes of this American Masters episode, Guy’s life proves to be quite a trip. In addition to original interviews with Guy and numerous acolytes including John Mayer, Carlos Santana, Gary Clark, Jr. and Kingfish, viewers are treated to quite the travelogue. The filmmakers trace the guitarist from his origins working the Louisiana fields

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his sharecropping family plowed of fact, I was playing in New York (and where a portion of highway and someone said, ‘That’s Jimi was named after him in December Hendrix.’ I didn’t know much 2018) to the thriving Chicago about him because I was following music scene he arrived in with B.B. King, Muddy Waters and nothing but a guitar in his hand T-Bone. I said, ‘So what. Who in and the suit on his back. It was the hell is Jimi Hendrix?’ He come here that he got his first break, up and asked if he could tape when Waters took the 21-year-old what I was doing because he just fret-bender under his wing. canceled a gig to come to New “Sixty-five years ago this year I’d York to hear me play.” just gotten to Chicago and I wasn’t While blues may have fallen out looking to be a professional musiof favor in the ‘70s and ‘80s, Guy cian,” he recalled. “I was looking experienced a ‘90s comeback with for a day job because I didn’t the release of 1991’s Damn Right, never think I was good enough I Got the Blues, his first recording to play with Muddy Waters, Little in nearly a decade. Featuring Walter and all those guys. I hadn’t cameos by Clapton, Beck and eaten in three days and a guy took Mark Knopfler, it’s credited with me to the 708, a famous blues club kick-starting a blues rebirth on top on 47th Street in of getting Guy back in the Chicago. I went recording up and played groove. He a number with achieved a the late Otis number of Rush and milestones somebody including called Muddy, eight who was Grammy living about awards, a five blocks Rock and Roll away. He got Hall of Fame out his van induction and because and playing he heard I for fellow was telling Chicagoan, Buddy Guy is people how the subject of two documentaPresident hungry I Barack Obama. ries, The Blues Chase the Blues Away was, he (“I always say I and The Torch (Photo courtesy of PBS) brought me went from the a bologna sandwich.” outhouse to the White House.”)

Guy’s prowess got around Guy never stopped touring and and after recording a few sides has been a constant presence on for Cobra Records, he landed the road. While he’s understandat Chess courtesy of Waters, ably slowed down in recent years, quickly becoming a hired his fire for playing guitar and session hand for other artists on spreading the blues gospel never the label. The Louisiana native’s died. As for what folks can expect combination of tasty playing coming out to see this living and over-the-top showmanship legend do his thing, he promises soon found him a favorite of the prime rib in a world of Spam.

British Invasion triumvirate of “Folks can expect the best that Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck and Eric I got,” he said. “My dad told me Clapton, as well as Stateside this and I’ll tell you the same thing guitar god Jimi Hendrix. And he told me when before I learned while Guy’s personality is how to play when I was driving the one of humility, he’s quick to tractor and plowing the fields in acknowledge his abilities as well, Louisiana. He said, ‘Son, don’t be particularly when asked what he the best in town. Just be the best thought about Hendrix the first until the best come around.’” time they met in 1968.

Buddy Guy and special guest “You should ask what he Colin James will be playing on thought of me because he told April 7 at the NYCB Theatre @ me he came from a gig to come Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow see me play because he’d picked Rd. Visit www.livenation.com up some things from me,” Guy or call 877-598-8497 for more said with a chuckle. “As a matter information.

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ZOX’s KITCHEN

Frank Sinatra’s Recipe 1915-1998 C

Barbecue lamb was a speciality of master griller Frank Sinatra (Photo by Prosthetic Head/CC BY-SA 4.0)

Frank Sinatra’s BBQ Lamb - Serves 6-8 1 (5 - 6 pound) leg of lamb, boned and butterflied (Ask your butcher to do this) 1/2 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 cloves crushed garlic 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

Combine oil, vinegar, garlic and salt to make a marinade. Place lamb skin side up in a shallow pan and pour the marinade over it. Slather mustard on skin side. Cover and let marinate overnight. To cook, place lamb, mustard side down on a very hot grill, five inches from the flame or under a broiler but not too close if it’s not outdoor weather.

When brown on one side, turn. Cook about one hour total, checking for doneness at 15-20 minutes. I like my lamb pink. Slice thinly to serve.

Dean Martin’s Recipe For Burger And Bourbon - Serves One Rather than eating lamb, here’s Dean Martin’s favorite. Preheat a heavy skillet and sprinkle with salt. Shape about half a pound of (chopped) beef lightly seasoned with black pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes. Flip and cook another 4 minutes. (Roll is optional.)

Pour two ounces of bourbon in each of four shot glasses. Drink with burger.

Dean Martin (public domain)

Chef Alan Zox is the Cape Cod Culinary Incubator Executive Director. Visit www.zoxkitchen.com or www.facebook.com/zoxkitchen for more information about Chef Zox.

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elebrity cookbooks are less common these days than they used to be.

Recently a friend recommended Frank DeCaro’s The Dead Celebrity Cookbook. This book resurrects recipes from more than 145 stars of stage and screen. Don’t let the book’s title or its unfortunate skull and crossbones cover scare you away.

Given my interest in music, I found myself drawn to artists like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. Others you might enjoy reading about in this book are Lucille Ball, Johnny Carson, Eartha Kitt, Michael Jackson and John Wayne. The recipes are accompanied by interesting short bios of the stars.

As I read through the book, I reminisced about Sinatra’s songbook, which is played on WNYC 93.9 FM every Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon by former rock and roll DJ Jonathan Schwartz. I can only imagine the Chairman of the Board’s lifestyle back in the day. His favorite outdoor activity was barbecuing beside the pool at his Palm Springs home alongside Rat Pack pals Martin and Davis Jr. I am somewhat star-struck when I read about Sinatra’s life and the body of work he left us. He won an Oscar for his performance in From Here to Eternity and played memorable roles in On the Town and Guys and Dolls. And his music endures thanks to classic albums like Come Fly With Me, Frank Sinatra Sings for Only the Lonely and September of My Years.

The lamb recipe shared here

by DeCaro helps all of us to get a bit more personal with Frank Sinatra. Following the lamb recipe is Dean Martin’s favorite meal, which requires much less cooking and much more alcohol.

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ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

Stanley Nelson Revisits Attica 50 Years Later DAVE GIL de RUBIO dgilderubio@antonmediagroup.com

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eptember 9, 2021 marked the 50th anniversary of the prison rebellion that blew up in Attica, NY. At this insurrection, more than 1,200 inmates seized the maximum security prison yard in this tiny Western New York community that lay 35 miles east of Buffalo. The standoff ended on September 13, when then-Governor Nelson Rockefeller authorized law enforcement to storm and retake the facility through violent means.

Tear gas was dispersed over the yard as a 1,000-strong, armed state trooper contingent descended on the yard, guns a-blazing. Once the gas cleared, 29 inmates and 10 hostages were killed, with 89 others wounded. With this historic incident spurred on by inmates seeking better living conditions, it wound up being an inflection point in the prisoners’ rights movements that was referenced in films like 1975’s Dog Day Afternoon and 1977’s Saturday Night Fever. For filmmaker Stanley Nelson, it’s an event that’s weighed on his mind for the past three decades and led to his shooting the documentary Attica, which was in the running for the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature at the 94th Academy Awards ceremony.

“When it happened, I was 19 or 20 years old,” the 70-year-old documentarian recalled.

“I remember going, ‘Oh my God, they’re taking over the prison.’ Not only had they taken over the prison, but they’ve taken over hostages so law enforcement can’t retake the prison without a massive loss of life. That was day-to-day and then finally, there were the actions Governor Nelson Rockefeller took. I think, like so many other people, I felt a sense of awe and shock about that fact and what they actually did.”

While the notion about revisiting Attica floated around in Nelson’s mind for the past three decades, he also realized if he was going to tell this story, he was going to have to start his research and start filming, something he began in earnest about four years ago.

“With the idea of making a film about Attica floating about in the ether, I realized we had to make the film soon because the people involved in the Attica rebellion were getting older,” he said. “The people we have in the film are great, but we couldn’t wait another 10

Attica co-director/co-producer/ writer Stanley Nelson (Photo by Corey Nickols/SHOWTIME)

Prisoners forced to crawl through mud and latrines overflowing with feces after Attica was retaken by law enforcement (Photo courtesy of SHOWTIME)

Attica co-director/co-producer Traci Curry (Photo courtesy of SHOWTIME)

or 20 years to make the film. That’s when we really started pushing to get it done.”

At a time when protests over the Vietnam War and civil rights were raging, that sense of outrage over humanitarian abuses were flowing through prison systems across the country. One of the more notable incidents prisoners in the documentary cite was the shooting death of prisoner/activist George Jackson by guards at San Quentin weeks before the Attica uprising. It’s a crucial piece of the film that Nelson’s archival researcher, Rosemary Rotondi, felt needed to be included.

“Stanley wanted to have the George Jackson story in there because spiritually, Jackson’s murder was one of the earlier events that preceded Attica,” Rotondi explained. “We were able to find two great interviews Jackson did—one with KPIX in California that we located at a Bay Area TV archive, and another with Jackson that Thames TV in the U.K. did about a month before Jackson was killed.”

In working with co-director Traci A. Curry and Rotondi, Nelson undertook the herculean task of assembling footage that included color footage shot by the three

major networks—ABC, CBS and NBC—along with their local affiliates. In addition, Nelson reached out to the New York State Archives, which acquired black-and-white footage from the prison closed-circuit surveillance system about 12 years ago and provided a real-time perspective of the siege unfolding from the vantage point of the prison towers and ramparts. Most important were the first-hand accounts of the people who were there—prisoners, hostage family members and journalists like John Johnson and Stewart Dan covering the rebellion, along with members of a hand-picked observers committee sent into negotiate terms prisoners required before surrendering.

Inmates made 33 demands that included better medical treatment, religious freedom, improved food quality, access to newspapers and books, fair visitation rights, basic necessities like daily showers and toothbrushes and an end to physical abuse.

Among the negotiators, Nelson and his team secured current interviews with were State Senator John Dunne, who was the head of a Prisons Committee in the New York State Legislature and Clarence Jones, publisher of the Amsterdam News and former advisor to Martin Luther King, Jr. For Nelson, Jones agreeing to be interviewed was a major coup for the film.

“Getting him was one of the big things for us in the making of the film,” Nelson said.

“He lives out in the San Francisco Bay Area and was here in New York for something. We met him for coffee in the morning and told

him what we were trying to do. He started telling us stories and we realized that he had this incredible memory of Attica. He’s just an amazing storyteller and human being. He was Martin Luther King’s personal lawyer and co-wrote the ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. He has four or five different lives. At the time of the Attica rebellion, he was publisher of The Amsterdam News.

We met with him, he was telling us these great stories. I asked if he would consent to us interviewing him. He said, ‘Yes Stanley, whatever you want, I’ll do it.’ A real signifying point in the making of the film was when Clarence consented to be interviewed.”

Interviews were conducted by Curry in 2019, early 2020 and through 2021, even as the pandemic arrived and raged on, providing additional obstacles beyond tackling a topic as complicated as Attica.

“The whole film was made during the time of COVID-19,” Nelson said. “We were scheduled to shoot in April 2020 and [the pandemic] struck in March. We couldn’t shoot and had to figure out how we could do it. In many ways, we let other people get out there first and shoot. We talked to a lot of other camera crews, directors and producers on how they were shooting. I think everybody we interviewed was around 70 years

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LONG ISLAND WEEKLY

Stanley Nelson’s Fave Documentaries

BY DAVE GIL DE RUBIO

dgilderubio@antonmediagroup.comx1

Attica Prison Facility old, so they were the extra-vulnerable population. And we really didn’t want this film to look like we shot it during COVID-19.”

Paramount for the Attica crew was presenting a 360-degree view of this story, which meant providing a platform for the hostage families and the community that surrounded the prison.

“One of the challenges was getting people to understand what we were trying to do and getting people to trust us,” Nelson said. “Not only the prisoners, but the hostage families that lived in Attica. They really add something to the film. It’s a hard film to describe because you’re not only right there with the prisoners who rebel and in the yard with them because there’s footage of that, but the town of Attica is also a character in the film. It’s an all-white town that basically survived on the prison.

We interviewed people from the town whose fathers and husbands were prison guards and they talked very honestly about the fact that it’s a prison town. And that most of their neighbors were in some way connected to the prison. Again, they’re all white and the prison is 70 percent black and brown.”

Given how intrinsically race was linked to this power keg of an incident, it should come as no surprise that the law and order mindset guided Rockefeller’s decisions like refusing to come to Attica and negotiate with the prisoners. These were views shared by President Richard Nixon, whose recorded conversations with the governor about what was going on at the prison are included in the film.

“One of the more chilling points in the film are calls between Rockefeller and Nixon that luckily, Nixon recorded, so we have those calls,” Nelson said. “[Nixon] calls Rockefeller to congratulate him on the retaking of the prison and the murdering of 40 American citizens. The first thing out of Nixon’s mouth was, ‘Was it the blacks? Were the blacks responsible?’ There is so much of this in the film and it’s a real rollercoaster ride.”

The last quarter of the film focusing on the prison being retaken is particularly difficult to watch. Armed state troopers, whose sense of retribution was goaded on by racist-fueled bloodlust, indiscriminately shot through the tear gas, inadvertently killing 10 of their own, along with 29 inmates. Once the area was secured, revenge came in the form of hunting

(Photo courtesy of SHOWTIME)

down inmate leaders like Elliott James “L.D.” Barkley, who was prominently featured in news coverage, and shooting him in cold blood. Surviving prisoners were forced to strip naked and crawl through the feces of overflowing latrines inmates had dug, before forcing them to run barefoot through a gauntlet of broken glass lined by law enforcement raining down blows with clubs as prisoners scurried through. It adds a particularly troubling and uncomfortable exclamation point to the film for Nelson.

“There is so much that’s disturbing in the film,” Nelson said. “The footage of them being made to crawl through mud and the feces of the latrine was just incredible. So many of the things they talk about are directly illustrated and you see what people were describing.

That’s also chilling. Over and over again, [you experience] the casual racism we see in the film. As they’re shooting and filming on top of the towers, you hear [law enforcement] talking about the biggest, blackest and ugliest Negro gentleman they’ve ever seen. And when they take back the prison and kill 40 people in cold blood, we see them laughing about it and yelling white power.”

While Nelson and his crew have deservedly received accolades for Attica at various film festivals and ceremonies, most notably at the upcoming Oscars, where he wound up losing to the heavily favored Summer of Soul, the septuagenarian filmmaker’s true goal is getting people to think after watching his film. It’s all the more relevant given the current law and order conversation swirling around discussions of bail reform, progressive prosecutors and a rising crime rate coming out of the pandemic.

“I think we’re still dealing with the same struggles—law enforcement, decency and humanity and people wanting to be treated like human beings,” Nelson said. “Hopefully, a bunch of things are coalescing at the same time and for a tiny bit of that, it’s the film Attica making people start to rethink the prison system. As filmmakers, we try to keep insight as to what our real goals are and what they are here is making sure we have as many people as possible see the film. The awards nods are all great, but in the final analysis, that will push more people to recognize and see the film and that’s what we really want.”

With Attica receiving an Oscar nod for Best Documentary at the 94th Annual Academy Awards, (and losing to heavy favorite Summer of Soul), this is just the most recent accolade for filmmaker Stanley Nelson, who has won three Primetime Emmy Awards (two for 2011’s Freedom Riders and one for 2015’s The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution). As someone self-described as “...liking to make films that don’t highlight the great man or the great woman theory of history, [but rather] make films about movements,” these are a trio of documentaries the New York City native said resonates with him to this day.

The Murder of Fred Hampton (1971) “This documentary about the Black Panthers had an appeal to me. It wasn’t trying to be objective. It was that Fred Hampton was murdered by the police in cold blood and that was the story.

And I think that really had an influence on me. I realized that you could do this and you didn’t have to have a narrator who had the pretense of objectivity.

You can say, ‘This was a murder, we’re going to tell you the story and we’re going to prove it’s a murder.’ That had a real effect on me. When I saw it, I was about 21 or 22.”

Eyes On the Prize: America’s Civil Rights Movement (1987; 1990) “This resonated with me too. It was different because it was a series produced by Henry Hampton, who was an African-American. It was the first time you had seen something like that. The first part was six hours and it was about the civil rights movement. It seemed like it was very objective, but it was by a black filmmaker with a lot of mixed teams—African-American directors and producers.”

I Am Not Your Negro (2016) “I Am Not Your Negro by Raoul Peck was really influential to me. I really loved that film because it really speaks to me. But I didn’t think anyone else would love it and understand it. Lo and behold, it was nominated for an Academy Award. And lo and behold, everyone understands it. That’s a hard trick to pull off. This film is really for me alone, but everybody understands it, so that’s a film I really admire.”

W

24A MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022 • ANTON MEDIA GROUP

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W OR D FIND This is a theme puz z le with the subj ect stated below. F ind the listed words in the grid. ( They may run in any direction but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 13 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

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GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You have an enhanced ability to make accurate projections and calculations. This will allow you to formulate some big plans. Your instructions will serve as a guide. Reality will flesh it out as you direct. You’re like a computer programmer, and reality is your servant, fleshing out the details.

S ol u tion: 13 Letters

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Get into the driver’s seat. Steer your own vessel. You know enough about the world to choose the best destinations and avoid the worst. You don’t always turn the right way, but better to be wrong and in charge than wrong because you let someone else drive your vehicle.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You don’t laugh easily. Therefore, you highly value the relationships that amuse you and recognize them for their rarity. The other very important team member is the one who helps you strategize. Spend time with both these people this week. And if these roles come in the same person, cherish this golden tie.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Handle what you can today. The challenges will be the same kind humans have faced forever: to protect what’s yours, to grow older, to deal with family. Embrace the universally problematic as an inevitability. It’s a new season. A new perspective is yours for the taking.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). What’s worth doing is worth doing right. It won’t be obvious at first how to accomplish the optimum result, but with repetition you’ll get there -- and don’t stop when you do. Hitting the mark consistently is only the beginning. After that, you’ll raise the bar.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ll take back bits of power you accidentally gave away. Instead of waiting and reacting, you will decide what you want to happen and you’ll get to work. While you can’t change other people, you’ll focus on working on yourself and your own life. You’ll seek guidance from external sources.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ll repeat comfortable patterns, especially in the realm of media. You may read the same book, see the same movie or replay a song a dozen times. There’s a reason you return to these certain works. There’s soul nutrition here, themes that feed you in mysterious ways.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Instead of trying to fix what’s broken or turn a disaster around, focus on making good things great. There’s a playful energy in the middle of the week. Opportunities open. Daring action will stir things up.

Keep in mind: Feelings are a neutral form of information. There is nothing right or wrong about a feeling.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

When you want someone to remember a number, you recite just the number that matters, not the entire numeric system. As you approach this year’s dealings with simplicity and directness, there will be temptation to overinstruct, overgive, overstate things. Resist. A simple, direct approach will work brilliantly. With a “less is more” approach, you’ll make money, gain skills, grow strength and win friends. A perfect partner comes along with a personality and skill set equal and different from your own.

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Scrub Simpson Snaps Snow Scrub Simpson Sports Snaps Storm Snow Surf Sports Storm Sweat Surf Track Sweat Vast Track Vast Wolfram Wolfram Street Street Zinc Zinc STREET, 41st Solution: The Never Never

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). When you feel like you’re out on a limb, return to the routines, habits and traditions that stood you in good stead. Eventually, you will develop new ways of doing things. Time rolls forward, and you will roll with it.

But there is comfort, strength and value in honoring what has always worked for you.

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LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your attitude will keep you in perfect readiness to receive good fortune. When this good fortune will actually drop into your world is the question. Until this felicitous moment, don’t worry or obsess. Focus on following your curiosities and allowing your attractions to lead you down interesting paths.

© 2022 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Transitioning to a new paradigm seems like an overwhelming endeavor. Getting started is the daunting part. Close your eyes and jump; you’ll have already completed the single hardest step. The Greek poet Horace said, “He has half the deed done who has made a beginning.”

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

© 2022 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.

HOROSCOPES

By Holiday Mathis HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’re not sure if you have the skills required to successfully complete a task, but go forward anyway. You’ll prove far more capable than you might imagine. More importantly, you won’t know what you don’t know until you’re in a position to come up with it!

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Date: 3/30/22

737 3rdSyndica Street • Hermosa Beach, te CA 90254 Creators Date: 3/30/22 737 3rd Street • Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 By Steve Becker FOR RELEASE 310-337-7003 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2022 • info@creators.com

CONTRACT BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER 310-337-7003 • info@creators.com

CONTRACT BRIDGE

Planning provides the answer South dealer.

North-South vulnerable.

NORTH ♠872 ♥J 7 6 4 ♦KJ8 ♣Q 9 3 WEST EAST ♠ J 10 3 ♠Q965 ♥A 5 ♥K 2 ♦ A 10 4 2 ♦9765 ♣8 6 5 2 ♣ 10 7 4 SOUTH ♠AK4 ♥ Q 10 9 8 3 ♦Q3 ♣A K J The bidding: South West North East 1♥ Pass 2♥ Pass 4♥ Opening lead — jack of spades.

The question of whether or not to draw trump immediately has no pat answer. The solution depends entirely on what declarer needs to do to eliminate his excess losers.

In general, if declarer has enough tricks in the side suits to assure his contract, trumps should be drawn at once. But if declarer plans to trump his losers, or if extracting the missing trumps will give the defense a leg up in the timing, it may be best to delay drawing them.

Today’s hand illustrates the type of thinking that determines declar-

er’s best course of action. South is in four hearts, and West leads a spade, taken by South with the ace.

How should he proceed?

In the great majority of hands where declarer is missing the A-K of trump, his first step should be to eliminate the opposing trumps as quickly as possible. But that would be suicidal in the actual case. If South leads a trump at trick two, he is virtually certain to lose four tricks and go down one.

Let’s say East wins the first heart.

He returns a second spade, establishing a spade trick for the defense.

No matter how declarer continues from here, he must lose two trumps, a diamond and a spade.

South’s only real hope is to somehow avoid the spade loser. To do this, he must immediately establish an extra diamond trick in dummy.

Accordingly, he should lead the queen of diamonds at trick two.

West does best to duck the first diamond, but he is fighting a losing battle. After taking the second diamond with the ace, he returns a spade to declarer’s king, but South is now in full control.

He leads the jack of clubs to dummy’s queen and deposits his losing spade on the king of diamonds. The trumps can then be drawn in comfort, and South finishes with 10 tricks.

Tomorrow: Sylvia strikes again. ©2022 King Features Syndicate Inc.

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BETHPAGE HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR NAMED NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST Bethpage High School senior Suchitha Channapatna was named as a finalist in the 67th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Channapatna is among some 15,000 semifinalists nationwide who have advanced to finalist standing. All winners of Merit Scholarship awards are chosen from the finalist group based on their abilities, skills and accomplishments—without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin or religious preference.

NMSC, a nonprofit organization

that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 400 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

–Submitted by the Bethpage Union Free School District

SCHOOL NEWS FARMINGDALE ROBOTICS TEAM EXCELS AT BATTLEBOTS COMPETITION Farmingdale Robotics students recently competed at the Southern New York State Championship.

Team 1353V finished in fourth position out of 56 teams, making it as far as the semifinals and receiving the Innovate award, qualifying them for the World Championship in Dallas this May. In Dallas, Farmingdale will compete against 800 schools worldwide, all playing the game “Tipping Point,” which requires the robots to place rings on posts, carry the posts to their scoring

zones and climb a see-saw-like platform for points. A portion of the match is “autonomous,” using computer code alone to play the game.

The robotics club will learn from other teams, compete with and against robots worldwide and Dalers will volunteer in critical positions to support STEM. Congratulations Dalers.

For more information about the Farmingdale Union Free School District, visit the district’s website at www.farmingdaleschools.org

Farmingdale Robotics Team 1353V (Photo courtesy of the Farmingdale School District)

and like the Facebook page: @ FarmingdaleSchoolDistrict.

—Submitted by the Farmingdale School District

HICKSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS PERFORM MUSICAL ASSEMBLIES FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Bethpage High School senior Suchitha Channapatna (center) was named as a finalist in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program.

She was joined by high school counselor Kathleen Gagliardi and high school Principal Nicholas Jantz.

(Photo courtesy of the Bethpage Union Free School District)

7

Six lead cast members of this year’s Hicksville High school’s production of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown recently traveled around the district providing elementary school students with theatre and promoting the musical production.

Hicksville High school theatre teacher Caitlin Cassidy said, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce the younger students

to live theatre and give them a glimpse of what to look forward to in high school. The high school performers also enjoy having a captive audience.”

—Submitted by the Hicksville School District Entertaining the students of Woodland Elementary were Hicksville High School students including Joseph Casas as Linus Van Pelt, Emma Michell as Snoopy and Khristian Romano as Schroeder.

(Photo courtesy of the Hicksville School District)

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MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022 • ANTON MEDIA GROUP

NEIGHBORS IN THE NEWS

SERVPRO of Levittown/Bethpage and Poppy Lane Interiors owners at recent chamber meeting

Students Invited To Participate In Third Annual Judy Jacobs Essay Award Contest In honor of Women’s History Month and the legacy of the late Nassau County Legislator and former Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs, Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D - Plainview) is proud to announce the third annual Judy Jacobs Essay Contest for fifth- through eighth-grade students residing in the 16th Legislative District.

In accordance with this year’s theme—“Kindness is Leadership”—students will be tasked with describing what it means to harness kindness as a principle of leadership. Students must select a person who they feel represents a kind leader, whether it is a parent, teacher, elected official, community leader or even themselves, to write about and how they are creating a kinder and better environment in their community.

“Judy Jacobs was a phenomenal individual who led with compassion and courage throughout her life to make Nassau County better for everybody,” Drucker said.

“Through this year’s essay contest, I hope to continue to honor Judy’s legacy and encourage our young people to be reflect upon actions they can take to foster an environment of acceptance that embraces our diversity as a source of strength.”

The deadline for submissions is Friday, April 8. Contest winners will be announced

(Photo courtesy of Tara Cassano)

Levittown Chamber Welcomes New Members

during an award ceremony at Jericho Public Library on Thursday, April 14.

Official Contest Rules Include: • All students in grades 5 to 8 may participate • Must reside within Legislative District 16 • Submissions should be a minimum of 250 words but not exceed 500 words in length • All submissions must be accompanied by a completed Participation Agreement Visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/LD16 for the full contest rules, instructions for submitting entries, and to complete the student participation agreement. Contact Legislator Drucker’s office at 516-571-6216 or Adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov for additional questions.

—Submitted by the office of Legislator Arnold Drucker

The Levittown Chamber of Commerce welcomed Rich and Shannon Delfino from SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage and Monica Stoller of Poppy Lane Interiors to the chamber.

SERVPRO is a leader in commercial and residential cleaning, restoration and construction services. From residential fire smoke and water damage restoration to large commercial disaster response, SERVPRO is the approved national vendor for most leading insurance companies including State Farm, Allstate and more.

“A fire or water damage to your home or business can be such a traumatic event,” SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage owner Rich Delfino aid. “SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage will be there to come in and clean up and restore property damage situations.

Our goal is to put the property owner back in control as quickly as possible.”

SERVPRO of Levittown, Bethpage is capable of cleaning and restoring a fire, mold or water-damaged building and its contents, including: wall, ceiling and floor surfaces; furniture; fabric; fixtures and more. They also handle sewage clean-up, estate clean outs and smoke cleaning. 24 Hour emergency service, residential and commercial is just a

call away at 516-261-9600.

At Poppy Lane Interiors, collaboration is part of their makeup. As creatives and business professionals, they love teaming up for the good of clients and with collaborative partners. They work with architects, contractors, furniture dealers, realtors and interior design firms in roles in which they can offer their expertise to enhance services.

Poppy Lane Interiors work with commercial, healthcare and education clients to ensure their design and furnishings selections work long into the future.

Poppy Lane Interiors are the commercial manufacturers representatives for H Contract/Hooker Furniture & Artline Group in the NY/NJ/CT Area and are excited to be able to consult with A&D Firms to offer their beautiful products. They are also affiliated with many contract furniture manufacturers to help clients specify and purchase furnishings and materials that work. Contact Monica Stoller at Poppy Lane Interiors by calling 516-768-2575 or e-mail Monica at monica@poppylaneinteriors.com.

Interested in becoming a member of the chamber? Visit levittownchamber.com or call 516-520-8000.

—Submitted by Tara Cassano

If it’s important to you, it’s important to us.

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ANTON MEDIA GROUP • MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022

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OBITUARIES resident passed away suddenly Feb. 24, at the age of 67. Loving and devoted mother of Andrew Owens (Angeline), Gabrielle (Eric Berkson) and the late Anthony. Cherished grandmother to Dylan and Tyler Owens. Dear sister to Joann Fay (Jack) and Carol van Leuven. Beloved aunt to Meghan Fay and Fayth Vasseur. Retired 20-year employee of the Town of Oyster Bay Department of Community and Youth Services. Visitation and Funeral Services were held Sunday, Feb. 27 at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc. Cremation was private.

Salgine, Joseph, of Farmingdale, formerly of Elmont passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 13, at the age of 56. Longtime power plant mechanic for National Grid. Loving and devoted husband of 30 years to Ana. Beloved father of Brian and Kevin.

Adored Dog Dad to Patrick, “P-Dog”. Dear brother to Michael (T), predeceased by siblings Dennis and John. Cherished and loyal friend to Tom Lynch, Conan Ford and Brian Renda. Visitation and Funeral Services were held Friday and Saturday, Feb. 18 and 19 at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc. Cremation was private.

OLD BETHPAGE/BETHPAGE Baker, Rita Marie, of Old Bethpage passed away on February 19 at the age of 83. Beloved wife of Richard. Loving mother of Mary Lynn Brassil (Maurice) and Deanne Congema (James). Cherished grandmother of Sean, Ryan, Tara, Emily, Ashley and Andrew. Adored great grandmother to Gabriella. A funeral mass was held Friday, Feb. 25, at St. Martin of Tours RC Church. Interment followed at St. John’s Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc.

Fernandez, Eulalia, of South Farmingdale passed away on Feb. 14. Beloved wife of the late Jose. Loving mother of Eulalia Bedell (John), Anna Berg (James) and Joseph. Cherished grandmother of eight grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. A funeral mass was held Thursday, Feb. 17, at St. Kilian RC Church. Interment followed at St. Charles Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc. Pardo, Richard J. Sr., “Rich” 68, of Farmingdale passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 24. Beloved husband of 40 years to Victoria. Loving father of Marta (RC Lagomarsino) and Richard Jr. Cherished son of Dorothy. Dear brother of Michael and Douglas. Rich was methodical and detail oriented.

He was a “master gardener”, enjoying nature and the outdoors. He was passionate about working on cars and making memories with his family. A Funeral Mass was held Tuesday, March 1, at St. Pius RC Church, Plainview. Cremation was private.

Arrangements entrusted to Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc. Pontillo, Mariann, longtime Farmingdale

Borowski, Dorothy, 76, of Farmingdale, passed away on Feb. 24. Retired administrative assistant at Nassau Community College. Beloved wife of 50 years to Robert. Loving mother of Susan Meyer (Karl), Michael (Michelle), and Steven (Marissa).

Cherished grandmother of Regina, Peter, Michael, Mason, Samantha, and Emily. A Funeral Mass was held Tuesday, March 1st, at Our Lady of Lourdes RC Church, Massapequa Park. Interment followed at St. Charles Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc.

Marian Moran (nee Cooney) of Bethpage, formerly of Farmingdale, passed away on Feb. 19, at the age of 85. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel, and her son, Daniel, Jr. Beloved mother of Alison (Eric). Cherished Nana to Gavin and Liam. Devoted aunt to her nieces and nephews, and treasured friend to many. A funeral mass was held on Saturday, Feb. 26, at St. Kilian RC Church. If you wish to make a donation in her name, please consider the Outreach Program of St. Kilian Parish (www.stkilian. com). Arrangements entrusted to Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc.

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FARMINGDALE Acinapuro, Ellen B. (nee Binder) of Farmingdale, passed away on November 9, 2021 at 96 years of age.

Devoted wife to the late Philip J. Acinapuro. Loving mother of Philip R. Acinapuro (Beverly) of Garden City and Sue Ellen Commender (David) of Larchmont aunt and “second mom” to Robert “Bobby” Binder (Marga) of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Much cherished “Nanny” to her grandchildren: Alison, David, Philip and Kara.

A lifelong resident of Farmingdale with a 30-year career teaching elementary and special education students. A devoted member of the Farmingdale United Methodist Church and its bell choir. A former President of the Women’s Club of Farmingdale. An avid swimmer and bridge player. She lived for her children, grandchildren and her extended family.

Both Ellen and her husband Philip were educators who believed in the power of learning. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ellen and Philip Acinapuro Memorial Scholarship Fund (c/o R. Fullam, Farmingdale School District, 50 Van Cott Ave., Farmingdale, NY 11735).

prearranged by b applicants NewNew YorkYork st atstate e l awlaw m anmandates dat es t h that at al all l cocontracts n t ract s f for or prearran g ed funeral f un eral agreements ag reem en t executed s exe cu t ed y appl i ca n for t s or f orrecipients or reci pi enoft s of social suppl em en t al soci al secu ri t y supplemental i n co m e or m edi ca l security assi st an income ce b e i or rrevmedical o ca b l e.assistance be irrevocable.

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LEVITTOWN Pinas, Ulises, 87, of Levittown, passed away on Feb. 21. Beloved husband of 65 years to Pauline.

Loving father of Marilyn Griscti (Gerard) and Richard Pina. Cherished grandfather of Christina, Danielle Vaidyan (Justin), Joshua (Lanlin), Jazmine and Lauren. Adored great-grandfather of Emma Joy. Devoted brother of Milton, Radame, and Migdalia.

A Funeral service was held Saturday, Feb. 26, at the funeral home. Interment followed at Washington Memorial Park. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur F. White Funeral Home, Inc.

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MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022 • ANTON MEDIA GROUP

SPORTS

Mount Students Ice Hockey Team Hits The Ice W hen Levittown resident and media studies/production major Joshua Zirkel began his freshman year at Mount Saint Mary College, the ice hockey veteran longed to get back to the game he loved. As it turns out, he wasn’t alone. Two years later, Zirkel serves as president of an ice hockey club team composed of Mount students, known as the Knights.

They’re off to a good start: Just last December, the team won Ice Time’s MidHudson Adult Hockey League’s championship for the D-League.

Blades Of Steel The Mount has more than 20 sports teams for students, from softball and basketball, to golf and tennis.

But for Zirkel, ice hockey will always hold a special place in his heart.

“I’ve been playing ice hockey my whole life and it’s given me some of the best opportunities I’ve ever had,” he explained. “When I came to the Mount…I realized how much I missed the game.”

As a freshman, Zirkel shared his desire to play ice hockey with fellow Mount student Thomas “TJ” Coyne, a nursing major from Staten Island. After asking around and sparking the interest of several other students, Zirkel and Coyne took their idea to the college’s athletics department. Together, they took the next steps to bringing their idea to fruition.

But like a great many other things, the COVID-19 pandemic put their plans for a Mount ice hockey team in the penalty box.

The Mighty Knights Zirkel and Coyne would not be so easily deterred.

In the Fall 2021 semester, they gathered about half a dozen like-minded Mount students (and a few other volunteers from around the area), to form the Knights ice hockey club team.

Playing in the adult league at Ice Time Sports Complex, they ended their season 10-2. Like something out of a movie, their final game was a real nail-biter.

“It was a really close game,” Zirkel explained. “The last two minutes were absolutely terrifying. They were in our zone the whole time.”

As the Knights played to their eventual 3-2 win, their friends and family cheered them on.

“They were really behind us the whole time,” Zirkel recalled. “I think that was the moment when we said, ‘All right, people want to see this. People want to be here. And we want to play. So let’s figure out how to do this as an official Mount team.”

Game On The Mount students’ hard work and enthusiasm served as a proof of concept, “...show[ing] that there was an interest on campus for ice hockey and a passion behind it,” Zirkel said.

Winning the D-League championship just strengthened their desire to continue.

The team’s current goal, Zirkel explained, is to recruit more players. Once the Knights have a full complement of players, they can join the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) and play in that league next year.

Helping them along the way are Assistant Mount Athletics Director Trevor Purcell; head coach Andy Crane; Sports Management Assistant Professor R. Scott Russell; and Mount students like Ryan Greenwood of Brooklyn, who serves as the team’s vice president and goalie.

“This time next year, I’d love to see us as a first-year team in the ACHA,” Zirkel said.

Members of the Knights ice hockey club team outside Mount Saint Mary College’s Chapel of the Most Holy Rosary. (Photo courtesy of Mount Saint Mary College)

Visit www.msmc.edu for more information.

—Submitted by Mount Saint Mary College

All District Girls Basketball Teams

BY JAMES ROWAN

editorial@antonmediagroup.com

These are the top girls basketball players for the 2021-22 season from the Levittown, Island Trees and Wantagh school districts.

The list was compiled from statistics over the most recent season and with some input from coaches.

It was the Blue Dragons of Division Avenue High School who swept the local rivalry in 2021-22. Division defeated MacArthur, Island Trees and Wantagh in non-league contests. The Blue Dragons were 15-6 overall and 10-3 in Conference A-3.

The MacArthur girls team went 17-4 and 12-0 in Conference A-1. The Lady Generals defeated Garden City in the opening round of the playoffs but were eliminated in the Nassau County quarterfinals.

Player Of The Year Olivia Agunzo, Junior, Guard, Division: The second leading scorer in Nassau County, averaging 26 points-per-game. A complete player on the court and a team leader. The junior guard drilled 60 three-pointers this past season. Agunzo went for 40 points against Carle Place and notched 30 points or better five times this season.

Offensive Player Of The Year Emma Robins, Freshman, Center, Division: Emma is just the second girl in Division basketball history to make all county as a freshmen. Robins made her living inside the paint this season. She averaged 14 points per game for her freshman campaign. Emma scored 20 points or better on four occasions this season.

Defensive Player Of The Year Ryann Murphy, Senior, Forward, MacArthur: Murphy was a dominant

All District players: Shae McGinty and Briana Fasset are in the center and surrounded by Division Avenue High School teammates (Courtesy Heidi Kinkel) presence inside the paint. The volleyball star was a shot-blocking machine for the Lady Generals. Murphy anchored a tough defense as MacArthur won the Conference title. Murphy’s vertical leap erased numerous shots this season.

All District First Team Olivia Agunzo, SR G, Division; Emma Robins, FR. C, Division; Hailey Hnis, SR. G, MacArthur; Madison Taylor, SR. G, Wantagh; Emily Carbonaro, SR. G, Island Trees.

All District Second Team Shae McGinty, SR. F, Division; Marissa Cardon, JR. F, MacArthur; Briana Fasset, SR. G, Division; Mikayla Ragot, SR. G, Island Trees; Skylar Mondelli, FR. G, Wantagh All Academic Team Shae McGinty, SR. F, Division; Emily Carbonaro, SR. G, Island Tress; Ava D’Antuono, JR. F, Island Trees; Jessica Filocamo, SR. G, Island Trees; Melissa Jairam, JR. F, Island Trees; Mikayla Ragot, SR. G, Island Trees; Sara Kealy, SO. G, MacArthur; Hailey Hnis, SR. G, MacArthur; Ryann Murphy, SR. F, MacArthur; Anastasia

Angelakis, SO. G, MacArthur; Ava Angiuli, JR. F, MacArthur; Madison Hnis, SR. G, MacArthur; Giavvana Stamatelo, SR. G, MacArthur; Hailey Feiler, JR. F, MacArthur.

In winter track, the MacArthur boys and girls teams each faired well at the County Championships. Earning All County honors for the Generals were: Senior Alyssa Rotondo, who finished third overall in the 600 meters; Senior Gia Bergonzi, who finished third in the 1,500 meters.

The boys 4x400 meter relay team of Dylan Vargas, Jack Longobucco, Jason Tordy and Jack Maurer ran a season’s best time to finish less than a second behind eventual county champion Massapequa to secure All-County honors. The Girls 4x400 meter relay, made up of Alexandra Coloma, Summer Looney, Sofia Migliore and Alyssa Rotondo, also posted a season’s best time to win the Nassau County championship by over six seconds. The same quartet of girls also took home the county title outdoors last spring in the 4x400 meter relay.

—James Rowan is a Levittown resident

11

ANTON MEDIA GROUP • MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022

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MARCH 30 - APRIL 5, 2022 • ANTON MEDIA GROUP

Spring has arrived on Long Island.

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