Brian Kacharaba/Herald
NUMC emergency medicine physician Dr. Dawn Williamson performs a mock demonstration on how to administer Narcan with Calhoun volunteer senior John Odell.
Bellmore-Merrick seniors get Narcan certified by NUMC
By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com
Senior students throughout the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District became Narcan certified on June 4 after attending a training session conducted by representatives from the Nassau University Medical Center.
Emergency medicine physician Dr. Dawn Williamson and health services administrator Todd Haiken were both on hand to teach the students how to recognize an opioid overdose, how to administer Narcan to the patient, and how the medication reverses the effects of a drug overdose. The pair visited Mepham, Kennedy, and Calhoun high schools and the Meadowbrook Alternative
Program throughout the day.
Williamson is an internist in Long Beach and also affiliated with Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital. She has over three decades of experience in the medical field and regularly visits facilities throughout the Town of Hempstead to continue preaching the dangers of opioid use and how Narcan can save lives.
“You have to understand what to look for and [Narcan] is totally safe to use,” Williamson said. “People get nervous. They say, ‘What if it’s not really an overdose? What if it’s a heart attack, or a stroke, or something else?’ It doesn’t matter. There’s no downside. Just go ahead and use it.”
During her presentation, Williamson
Over 20 Years of Experience & Dedication
Rabbi Held joins legacy lectures
Renowned Jewish scholar discusses his book, ‘Judaism Is About Love’
By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com
Rabbi Emeritus Charles Klein stepped down as spiritual leader of the Merrick Jewish Centre nearly four years ago, concluding a 43-year career. Upon his retirement, Klein and his wife, Betty, established a legacy fund to help the synagogue expand educational opportunities for congregants of all ages.
He is one of the most influential teachers I’ve had over the course of my life.
Last month, the synagogue welcomed Rabbi Shai Held, a leading Jewish scholar, as the third installment in the legacy fund’s lecture series. Held, who earned a PhD in religious studies from Harvard University, is a founder of the Hadar Institute, a center for Jewish life, learning and practice in North America and Israel.
RABBI EMERITUs
CHARlEs KlEIN
Merrick Jewish Centre
The first two installments of the legacy series featured speakers in 2023 and 2024.
“We are sitting here in the Rabbi Charles A. Klein sanctuary,” Rabbi Josh Dorsch, the synagogue’s spiritual leader since 2023, said. “This is the sanctuary — but dare I say the community — that was built after what was an incredibly remarkable and amazing career. There’s no more crowning achievement than the legacy, which is why it’s so beautiful that Rabbi Klein’s parting gift was the creation of the legacy fund — creating an endowment to ensure that this community will be able to bring such high class, incredibly powerful, prominent and educational speakers like Rabbi Shai Held.”
In addressing the lecture’s attendees, Klein said he’s long considered Held one of his teachers.
“My love for Jewish study has been fueled by really great teachers,” Klein said. “Rabbi CONtiNUeD ON page 6
Held’s topic of discussion at the Merrick synagogue on May 21 was simple: “Judaism is about love,” an ode to his latest book published last year with the same title.
Garden
MAP program revives Shakespeare Festival
In their first Shakespeare Festival since before the coronavirus pandemic, students and staff at the Meadowbrook Alternative Program took a threepronged approach to the revived weeklong production.
“One-third of the performances were live, and two-thirds were filmed in front of our green screen wall and then edited in Canva and iMovie,” Laura Sheridan, an English teacher and festival organizer at MAP said. “Canva has been a game changer regarding what can be done with the videos.”
In English classes during the third quarter, all students read a Shakespeare play: E1: “Romeo and Juliet;” E2: “Twelfth Night;” E3, AP4: “Othello;” and E4: “Macbeth.”
“This way, all students were familiar with at least some of the material in the festival,” Sheridan said. “Our students spend much time on their feet, in costumes, performing in the classroom.”
This year, Sheridan’s Theater Arts class served integral roles in stage crew, prop making and scene suggestion for all five of the live performances.
“Having a scene from ‘Henry VIII’ was driven by a student who is fascinated with Anne Boleyn and wanted to play her as an actress,” Sheridan explained. “Then, my stage crew suggested using a TikTok approach for the prologue and epilogue for that scene, which required much historical information.”
This enabled production to fit many more students on film, even to say one line.
“When I explained to my Theater Arts class that the story of ‘Romeo & Juliet’ takes roughly three days, they came up with the idea to create a newscast that traced the story in a quick timeline,” she added.
This year Sheridan fulfilled a goal that she has had for 20 years: to have an actual brother and sister play the twins Sebastian and Viola from “Twelfth Night.”
“That’s what was great all around this
year: students and staff were so willing to step in and perform,” she said. “Even shy students agreed to read one line.”
This year was also the first that students and staff from the district’s Prep Academy program staff also participated.
“At the end of the day, I aim for my students to feel both ownership of Shakespeare’s works and the excitement of seeing themselves and the members of their school family performing and having fun with it,” Sheridan said.
Photos courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Teachers and students worked together for the live portion of the MAP Shakespeare Festival on May 16.
Mia McGorty gets ready to play the part of Juliet for a scene in “Romeo & Juliet” as told through a newscast.
BMB students win big at Hofstra
The Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting students still have the gift of the gab.
The Mepham High School-based student-centered program once again took home the big prize during the Broadcast Alliance for Senior High awards at Hofstra on May 22, winning the Best Broadcast award for the second straight year and third time in four tries with their BMB morning announcements.
The BMB Game of the Week was also a repeat winner in the Best Live Sports category and the program claimed the first-ever Wild Card award for their feature on food insecurity within the community, during which they collected non-perishable food items for Island Harvest. They also earned second-place honors in Best Community News Feature from WABC-TV for their story on the North Bellmore Fire Department and placed third for their “Impact Of Sugar On The Diet” public service announcement.
BMB Parent Association board member Scott Stone won the inaugural Friend of BASH award for his work with the organization in helping to establish the Broadcast Alliance as a 501c3.
Prior to the awards show, students participated in a poster session, where representatives from 20 schools set up tables showcasing their broadcasting programs. Afterward, they joined breakout sessions, two of which were led by BMB students, as well as members of the Hofstra faculty, WABC executives, and the All-American High School Film Festival.
Seniors Anthony Ciuffo, Matthew Natof and junior Mya Passanisi led a session on creating “As Live,” a mock live report that was simulated on the spot with an audience.
“It was a little nerve-wracking, but also a lot of fun to share and to demonstrate what we’ve learned and what we do at BMB every day,” Passanisi said.
Seniors Ryan Marr and Jake Manno also presented an “Elevating Your Broadcasting” program and junior Christina Pena participated in the “Day of Competition,” where students had two hours to collect interviews and piece them together into a 75-second segment.
“We go to the Student Television Network convention every year and meet kids from around the country,” Pena said. “It was cool to see so many kids from right here doing the same kind of things.”
The volunteer-run BASH awards brought together 800-plus students from across Long Island and Westchester, and for the first time this year, schools from New York City and a remote participant from upstate Olean also took part.
— Brian Kacharaba
The BMB senior class celebrated a second consecutive first place finish in Best Broadcast on Long Island.
Photos courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District
Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting seniors Matthew Natof, second from left, Makayla Daube, middle, and Anthony Ciuffo, second from right, celebrated a first place selection in the first BASH Wild Card competition.
BMB students celebrated their wins.
Nearly 50 BMB students, faculty, alumni and family attended the 8th annual Broadcast Alliance for Senior High awards at Hofstra University.
TOH announces free women’s golf clinics
By JACK SCHWED Intern
Town Supervisor Don Clavin announced last week that the Hempstead town will offer two days of free golf for women and a skills clinic led by women golf professionals in celebration of National Women’s Golf Month.
The clinics will be held on Wednesday, June 11 and Wednesday, June 25 from 1 p.m. until closing at the town’s golf course in Merrick.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for women in our community to experience golf in a fun, supportive and educational setting,” Clavin said at a news conference on June 4. “Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, we’re proud to celebrate National Women’s Golf Month by making the game more accessible, and encouraging more women to take up this lifelong sport.”
Women of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in the clinics. It will cover the basics of golf, including driving, chipping and putting. Throughout the afternoon, attendees can also receive expert advice and guidance from professional women golfers.
Golf professional Kelly Brooke said around 3 million women have joined the golfing community since 2021.“Women in golf are the fasting growing population in golf,” Brooke
said. “You would think it might be kids, but it’s really women.”
The Town of Hempstead is “making great strides” to increase this growing number, she said. Last year, for instance, it introduced 300 women to golf through a “sips and tips” event, dedicating the day to women’s golf.
This upcoming National Women’s Month celebration has a similar aim of expanding the game to a wider demo-
Increasing Your Emotional Intelligence
The philosopher Epictetus said “Men are disturbed not by events, but by the views they take of them.” Arising out of “The Good Life”, by Robert Waldinger, MD, comes the W.I.S.E.R. model for reacting to emotionally challenging situations.
Watch. Initial impressions are powerful but may be incomplete. There is usually more to see. When the impression and the emotional response start to interact, take a moment to pause and thoughtfully observe the situation to prevent a potentially harmful reflexive response. As they say in psychiatry “Don’t just do something, sit there.”
Interpret. We are all seeing the world through our own eyes – what is happening, why it is happening and how it affects us. Our reality is not necessarily that of others. Thinking that a situation is all about us often leads to misunderstanding. When your emotions start to bubble up, it indicates you have something important at stake – a goal, an insecurity or a vital relationship. Figuring out what’s at stake will allow you to interpret the situation better.
Select. Having watched, interpreted and reinterpreted, you must select your response. Instead of reacting reflexively out of stress, slowing down allows us to choose from more options. As “The Good Life” says “Given what’s at stake and the resources at my disposal, what can I do in this situation? What would be a good outcome here? And what is the likelihood that things will go well if I respond this way instead of that way?”
Engage. Now you are ready to respond more purposefully – aligning with who you are and what you want to accomplish. You’ve observed and interpreted the situation, taken some time to consider the possibilities and their likelihood of success, and you then execute your strategy.
Reflect. “How did that work out? Did I make things better or worse? Have I learned something new about the challenge I’m facing and about the best response? Reflecting on our response to a challenge can yield dividends for the future. It’s in learning from experience that we fully grow wiser.”
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
graphic. Clavin emphasized that it is especially important to convey this message to younger women.
“I think it’s important not only for our more senior golfers — but for our future players who are looking to play in high school [or] college,” he said. “It truly is a life sport.”
Clavin said he hopes to see mothers and their daughters spending quality time together without electronics in the way.
“Golf is more than just a game,” he said. “It’s a way to build confidence, community and lifelong friendships. We’re excited to offer this great promotion for National Women’s Golf Month and to tee off some smiles.”
To sign up for the clinic, residents can call the Merrick Golf Pro Shop at (516) 868-4650. The Merrick Golf Course is at 2550 Clubhouse Road, Merrick.
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Those who sign up will be able to enjoy a day of free golf as well as a skills clinic led by women golf professionals at the Merrick Golf Course. Above, golfers demonstrated their skills on the green.
Jack Schwed/Herald photos
Town Supervisor Don Clavin announced an upcoming free clinic for female golfers in recognition of National Women’s Golf Month.
Rabbi Shai Held sees
‘love’ through Judaism
Shai Held is absolutely one of that group. He is one of the most influential teachers I’ve had over the course of my life.”
He called Held a “leading theologian,” noting his biblical commentary.
“He creates this beautiful, rich, wonderful tapestry of learning,” Klein said, adding that the Hadar Institute is an “extraordinary institution. It’s a gathering place for gifted teachers, hungry learners — a world-renowned center for Jewish learning.”
“His latest book, ‘Judaism Is About Love,’ makes clear that Judaism’s essential, eternal message is creating a society that is founded upon love, that promotes love,” Klein pointed out.
Held, who received a warm welcome from the crowd during his lecture at the Merrick synagogue, shared that his inspiration for writing the book dates back to when he addressed students at the Jewish Theological Seminary in Manhattan. He told them: “Judaism is the story of a God who loves us and beckons us to love God back.” One of the students, he recounted, responded: “That just sounds like Christianity.”
“If you hear that and the first thought you have is, ‘Oh, that’s Christianity,’ then there is a much more fundamental and difficult conversation we need to have,” Held said, “which is about how — and why — so many Jews, even passionate, knowledgeable Jews, have internalized a traditional Christian, anti-Jewish caricature, whereby Christianity is about love, but Judaism is about something else.”
Christians far outnumber Jews in global communities, Held said, adding that Jews have been a minority for thousands of years.
“There was a point in American Jewish history where Jews who felt anxious about assimilation but did not have a strong enough Jewish education — and I don’t know if this process was conscious
or unconscious — began to define Judaism as whatever they imagined Christianity was not,” he said.
In his book, Held said, he seeks to illuminate love — “the forgotten heart” of Jewish theology and practice. Through a blend of intellectualism and a respect for tradition and the practices of Judaism, Held conveys that love is a foundational and constitutive part of the Jewish faith.
“Love is an existential posture,” he said. “It’s a stance. If you like the language of philosophy, love is a disposition to feel certain things and act in certain things. If you have the disposition to feel something and you never actually feel it, you either will lose the disposition or you already have.”
Held noted that sometimes it may feel difficult to be disposed to feelings like love — which is totally normal.
“The goal is to be oriented around gratitude, to have a disposition towards being grateful,” he said. “Love, I don’t think, refers to a single feeling or a single disposition.”
He also touched upon the theme of self-worth, after looking at excerpts from Jewish texts that were shared with attendees.
“What if we actually took seriously the idea that all of us are infinitely valuable?” he said. “This is one of the central arguments I’ve been trying to make, especially with young adults: Self-worth is not something you can earn, it is something you try to live up to. You never have to earn your worth — that is the most fundamental claim that Jewish theology makes about being a person. You are already loved because God loves you.”
For more on Held and his work with the Hadar Institute, visit Hadar.org. To learn more about the Rabbi Charles and Betty Klein Legacy Fund and other upcoming programs, visit MerrickJC. org.
Jordan Vallone/Herald
rabbi Shai Held, of the Hadar institute and a renowned Jewish scholar and teacher, spoke at the merrick Jewish Centre on may 21, when he discussed his recent book, “Judaism is about Love.”
Merrick man facing attempted bombing charges
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
A North Merrick man pleaded guilty last week to a series of charges related to an attempted bombing at the Nassau County Department of Social Services in September 2024, as well as multiple unrelated crimes involving fraud, forgery, and identity theft, Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced.
TJames Luca, 47, admitted in Nassau County Court to attempting to ignite an explosive device at the social services building on Charles Lindbergh Boulevard in East Meadow. He pleaded guilty before Judge Terence Murphy to first-degree criminal possession of a weapon, a B violent felony, and obstruction of governmental duties by means of a bomb or hazardous substance, a D felony.
degree identity theft, two counts of fourth-degree grand larceny, and four counts of first-degree scheme to defraud.
He is expected to be sentenced on July 8 to nine years in prison and five years of post-release supervision.
his defendant is dangerous and unpredictable.
ANNE DONNELLy District attorney Nassau County
“This defendant is dangerous and unpredictable, instigating fear and terror in his personal life and attempting to sow that same terror when he targeted the dedicated public servants at the Nassau County Department of Social Services with an explosive device,” Donnelly said in a statement. “Now, he faces nearly a decade in prison. Our communities will be safer with him off our streets.”
Luca also pleaded guilty to an array of additional charges in separate cases, including a second count of first-degree criminal possession of a weapon, secondand third-degree residential mortgage fraud, two counts each of second-degree forgery and criminal possession of a forged instrument, four counts of first-
According to prosecutors, around 1:42 a.m. on Sept. 17, 2024, Luca left his Van Nostrand Avenue home in North Merrick and met with a co-defendant. The pair drove to the NCDSS building, where Luca placed a 20-pound propane tank and a smaller camping tank at the building’s entrance, topped with a torch. Surveillance footage showed Luca attempting to ignite the homemade bomb by throwing lit flares at it, but the device failed to detonate.
Authorities said the men returned to
James Luca, 47, pleaded guilty to a number of charges last week related to an attempted bombing at the Nassau County Department of Social Services in September 2024 in East Meadow.
East Meadow and switched vehicles before heading back to Luca’s home. Later that morning, the NCDSS director of investigations discovered the device and alerted police. The Nassau County Police
Department’s Arson and Bomb Squad, the Uniondale Fire Department, and the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office evacuated the building and secured the scene. A second 20-pound propane tank and road flares were later recovered nearby.
Luca and his co-defendant were arrested Oct. 3, 2024.
In a separate case, Luca admitted to placing an explosive device on his exwife’s car in February 2023 and detonating it, shattering her windshield. He caused further damage to her vehicle in a separate incident in January 2024.
Luca also pleaded guilty to defrauding a relative by forging loan documents and a deed to transfer property ownership. He obtained a $410,000 mortgage on the home, which ultimately went into foreclosure due to nonpayment, leaving the relative with more than $600,000 in debt. He further used the same relative’s identity to open personal and business credit cards with American Express, accruing more than $200,000 in unpaid charges. In another scheme, Luca impersonated a different relative to open utility accounts at three East Meadow properties, including his own.
The attempted bombing case is being prosecuted by Deputy Bureau Chief Lee Genser of the Narcotics, Firearms and Gangs Bureau.
Courtesy NCPD
Board ‘takeover’ takes shape at NUMC
By JORDAN VALLONE and LUKE FEENEY of the East Meadow Herald
New York state has begun the transition in leadership at Nassau University Medical Center, following the approval last month of a $254 billion budget package for fiscal year 2026 that included several provisions affecting NUMC, including a “takeover” of Long Island’s largest public hospital system.
The board’s restructuring is unequivocally the best possible news for anyone who relies on NUMC.
GORDON TEppER
Gov. Hochul’s Long Island press secretary
State lawmakers approved the changes on May 7, shifting control from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman to Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Democrats. The changes — which took effect June 1 — seeks to enhance state oversight and set a path toward financial improvement and operational stability at the East Meadow hospital and its extended care facility in Uniondale.
In addition, the state has granted the Nassau Interim Finance Authority, a public benefit corporation, expanded oversight, including the ability to approve hospital contracts exceeding $1 million. The hospital’s public benefit corporation, the Nassau Health Care Corporation, is also required to conduct a study on strengthening NUMC by Dec. 1, 2026.
A newly restructured NUMC board will see six members appointed by the governor — including one recommended by the state Assembly speaker and state Senate president — two appointed by the Nassau County executive, two by the county Legislature’s majority, and one by its minority.
On May 31, Hochul announced her
The state has begun to restructure the Nassau University Medical Center board, with Gov. Kathy Hochul appointing four members on May 31. These changes are part of reforms that were passed as provisions in the state budget.
appointments, including Stuart Rabinowitz, former president of Hofstra University in Hempstead, designating him chair of the 11-member board.
Rabinowitz, a longtime leader in higher education and public policy, now serves as senior counsel at Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone in Mineola. He described the hospital as a “critical safety-net institution that has suffered from years of dysfunction and mismanagement.”
“I’m grateful to Gov. Hochul for the trust she’s placed in me,” Rabinowitz said in a news release, “and I’m eager to get to work with my fellow board members to restore public confidence, implement long-overdue reforms and put this
Who’s on the new NUMC board?
The restructured 11-member board overseeing Nassau University Medical Center includes appointments from the governor, county executive, and Nassau County Legislature. As of early June, the members publicly named are:
Appointed by Gov. Kathy Hochul:
■ Stuart Rabinowitz (Chair): Former Hofstra University president and senior counsel at Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP
■ Amy Flores: Community manager at JPMorgan Chase
■ Dean Mihaltses: Health care executive and licensed pharmacist
■ Lisa Warren: President of Placid, LLC, a Long Island-based real estate investment firm.
Other seats:
■ One gubernatorial appointee each recommended by the Assembly speaker and Senate president (not yet publicly named)
■ Two appointments from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman
■ Two appointments from the Nassau County Legislature’s majority
■ One appointment from the Nassau County Legislature’s minority
communication from New York state,” she said. “There’s an absence of a transition team from the state and absolutely no transition planning has been provided from the state. This is a travesty.
hospital back on a path to stability and excellence.”
Hochul’s other appointments to the board included Amy Flores, community manager at JPMorgan Chase; Dean Mihaltses, a veteran health care executive and licensed pharmacist; and Lisa Warren, president of Placid, LLC, a Long Island-based real estate investment and management firm.
“These new appointments, and the new authority granted to the state and NIFA, will help ensure accountability, responsible fiscal management and high-quality care for the communities NUMC serves,” Hochul said.
In response to the state’s approval, Blakeman announced on June 3 that the county plans to file a lawsuit against the state in a bid to overturn it, calling it a “power grab” and an illegal move. During a news conference held outside the hospital’s main entrance, he said he refused to name his appointments to the board.
“We will not roll over and play dead,” Blakeman said. “We intend to pursue our rights with respect to the agreements that are in place.”
Blakeman also criticized Hochul for prioritizing spending to meet the needs of recent migrants over the needs of Nassau County residents. He argued that despite Nassau and Suffolk counties contributing billions more to the state than they receive in return, the state has failed to provide funding support for NUMC.
Dr. Irina Gelman, the county’s health commissioner and chair of the board at the hospital prior to June 1, said “employee morale is at an all-time low.”
“There has been a complete lack of
“Their silence has been deafening,” she added. “Failing to plan is planning to fail. It is time to put patient care and safety before politics.”
Specific information about the lawsuit was not provided.
Gordon Tepper, Hochul’s Long Island press secretary, said Blakeman’s “assertions are ridiculous.”
“The board’s restructuring is unequivocally the best possible news for anyone who relies on NUMC,” he said in an email to the Herald. “Due to years of gross mismanagement under his watch, the hospital is in financial peril. This is a desperately needed intervention. The state’s priorities for NUMC have always been ensuring quality patient care and achieving financial stability. The actions taken by the hospital’s leadership and County Executive Blakeman suggest that these priorities are not shared.”
County Legislator Seth Koslow, a Democrat who is running against Blakeman for county executive, slammed Blakeman’s refusal to appoint members.
“While Bruce Blakeman throws another tantrum, our legislators are focused on saving lives,” Koslow said in an emailed statement. “We intend to make our appointment to the NUMC board because we follow the law and put patients before politics. Blakeman’s refusal to name board members isn’t a protest — it’s a blatant refusal to do his job. His administration drove NUMC into financial and operational chaos. Now the state is stepping in to stop the bleeding, and instead of helping, he’s walking off the field. Nassau residents deserve leadership, not a disappearing act.”
Luke Feeney/Herald photos
Courtesy Darren McGee/Office of Gov. Hochul County Executive Bruce Blakeman, above, outside of NUMC with Dr. Irina Gelman, Nassau’s health commissioner, details the county’s intent to sue the state over the changes implemented on June 1.
Eat for hydration
Water-based veggies are a nutritional superstar
Most of us grew up hearing the same refrain: It’s important to eat your vegetables. But between cruciferous, allium, marrow, root, and so many more, it can be hard to identify the different types of vegetables and their nutritional benefits. Vegetables with a high water content are known for their refreshing taste, delicious flavor, and hydrating effect. Plant-based foods packed with water and fiber content leave you feeling full, but without feeling bloated.
But are high-water-content vegetables enough to maintain your overall health? Let the nutrition experts weigh in.
Nutritional benefits are real
Water-rich vegetables carry essential nutrients, according to Caroline Schneider, MS, RD.
“Cucumbers and celery provide vitamin K–needed for bone health–and antioxidants, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with decreased risk for cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer,” she explains.
Similarly, lettuce — which is often written off as a nutritionless vegetable — contains nutrients like folate and vitamins A and C, which help with cell function, vision health, and immune function. These innately hydrating vegetables are great sources of
nutrients.
On the top of the list for nutritional value
According to nutrition expert Kimberly Snyder, water-dense spinach is one of the most nutrient-packed vegetables, with high levels of vitamins A, C, and K as well as iron and magnesium. Snyder and Schneider both recommend celery as another nutrient-dense vegetable, noting it as a great source of vitamin K, folate, fiber, potassium, and calcium. There’s virtually no way to go wrong with these vitamin-rich vegetables.
Overall, “tomatoes, zucchini, and celery provide the most nutritional value,” Schneider says. “Tomatoes offer 30 percent of the daily value of vitamin C along with a high amount of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with lowering chronic disease risk. Zucchini provides 40 percent of our daily intake of vitamins A, B, C, potassium, and magnesium.”
If you can’t decide which water-based vegetable to snack on or toss into a dish, opt for these three superstars.
Hydration boost Thankfully, our daily water intake includes the water-based vegetables we eat.
“Data shows that we get about 20 percent of our daily water needs from food alone, especially fruits and vegetables,” says
Schneider.“While these foods do not replace the need for drinking water, they can help with your daily fluid intake and can be part of a balanced approach to staying hydrated.”
That doesn’t mean you should neglect your daily water drinking goals (at least eight cups a day), but with this knowledge, you can enhance the hydration experience. Some cucumber water, perhaps?
When to add water-based vegetables to your meal plan
The best time to eat water-based vegetables is anytime, but especially to avoid the
midday slump, according to Snyder and Schneider. They can be incorporated into your meals or consumed as an energyboosting afternoon snack — think celery and hummus, tomato and zucchini minestrone, cucumber and spinach green juice, and so much more.
For a more comprehensive vegetable intake, consider tossing all your favorite water-based vegetables into a delicious salad to completely satisfy your hunger.
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Active aging and men’s health
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ctive aging – the process of optimizing opportunities for better health, continuing development of knowledge, and increased security in order to maximize quality of life as you age. The word ‘active’ is used to describe a person’s involvement with social, physical, economic, spiritual and civic affairs. We all share the same goal to maintain autonomy and independence as we age, and thus we must rely on preserving the tenants of interdependence (socialization and reliance on family and loved ones) and intergenerational solidarity (maintaining companionship with agematched peers) to insure active aging. Both social isolation and depression are major risk factors for the development of dementia, and both increase as we age. Being a lifelong learner and staying active is important to maintain a healthy, active brain, and can also reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Some studies have shown that social activities, larger social networks, and a history of social contact are associated with better cognitive function and reduced risk for cognitive decline.
Tips for active aging include:
• Share a meal with family and friends 3-5 times per week
• Commit to an aerobics / exercise regiment
• Learn a new hobby each year
• Play an instrument (learn a new instrument if you already know how to play one)
• If you love to read — keep reading. If you don’t read much, try to read a book every other month
• Participate in classes at your local senior center
• Volunteering at a local hospital, shelter, etc.
• Go back to school! Many local universities offer free tuition to individuals over age 65
Dr. Amy Sapodin, Au.D., F-AAA, CCC-A
Dr. Alison Hoffmann, Au.D., F-AAA, CCC-A
Photo: Water-rich vegetables, such as celery and tomatoes, do more than just hydrate.
Help for men suffering in silence with erectile dysfunction
It’s a surprisingly common issue—about half of men in the United States experience symptoms of sexual health disorders, such as erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, and premature ejaculation. These disorders impact relationships and affect one’s quality of life.
They are also linked to serious chronic health risks, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, and depression. Yet men are often hesitant to seek help, due to embarrassment, lack of awareness that treatments are available, or the belief that these disorders are a normal part of aging.
But men do not have to suffer in silence. At Mount Sinai South Nassau, a new service offers treatment options for an array of men’s sexual health disorders in an environment that respects the patient’s dignity and confidentiality.
Mahyar Kashani, MD, Director of Men’s Sexual Health at Mount Sinai South Nassau, says an array of options are available to address male sexual disorders. “Men across Long Island with erectile dysfunction no longer need to suffer in silence,” said Dr. Kashani. “We have established this program to provide patients with not only support and compassion, but also with specialized surgical and therapeutic treatments that will relieve them of the physical and psychological burdens of their condition. We want our patients to enjoy their sexual health to its fullest!”
Born and raised on Long Island, Dr. Kashani is committed to providing exceptional care to his community. Dr. Kashani sees
Mahyar Kashani, MD, Director of Male Sexual Health at Mount Sinai South Nassau offers an array of options to address male sexual disorders in his patients.
patients at multiple locations on Long Island, including at the Mount Sinai Doctors Carle Place and Rockville Centre locations, and is dedicated to delivering top-quality, accessible care. He offers both nonsurgical and surgical options to address erectile dysfunction and other sexual disorders. He completed a medical degree and a urologic surgery residency at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences Center in Brooklyn, and completed a fellowship in male sexual health and reproductive medicine at Lenox Hill
Hospital in New York City.
Under the direction of Dr. Kashani, Mount Sinai South Nassau Men’s Sexual Medicine program specializes in personalized, proven treatments including:
• Testosterone replacement therapy—topical gels and injectable and oral therapies to treat problems such as low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or fatigue
• Treatments for erectile dysfunction—oral (Viagra, Cialis), injectable (TriMix), and other treatments
• Penile implants—surgical option for men with advanced erectile dysfunction
• Premature ejaculation—behavioral changes, topical therapies, oral therapies
Dr. Kashani is also proficient in treating a wide range of general urological conditions as well, such as kidney stones, enlarged prostate, urinary dysfunction, and overactive bladder. For more information about Mount Sinai South Nassau Men’s Sexual Health program or to schedule a consultation, visit southnassau.org, call 516-390-2850 (Rockville Centre) or call 516-877-0977 (Carle Place).
One Healthy Way Oceanside, NY 11572 • 877-SOUTH-NASSAU (877-768-8462) • www.mountsinai.org/southnassau
Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.
T:10.25"
Mount Sinai South Nassau is Improving Health Care on the South Shore
The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.
The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.
To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion
Long Island Cares’ Paule Pachter retires
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
After more than 17 years leading Long Island Cares, President and CEO Paule Pachter has announced his retirement. He will assume the title of president emeritus in an advisory capacity and remain in his current role until a successor is named.
“My time at Long Island Cares has been the most rewarding and productive period of my 46-year history of working in the nonprofit human services sector on Long Island,” Pachter, 71, said in a news release. “Along with our dedicated staff, we have transformed the role of a traditional food bank and developed innovative and effective programs to support those in need.
Long Island Cares is a regional food bank and nonprofit organization headquartered in Hauppauge.
Founded to combat food insecurity across Long Island, it provides emergency food assistance, distributes nutritious groceries, and offers support services to individuals and families in need. The organization operates a network of pantries and distribution centers, including locations in Freeport, Lindenhurst, and Bethpage.
As food insecurity continues to affect an estimated 121,000 Long Islanders, including 65,000 children, Long Island Cares has sought to expand its outreach, opening another pantry in Valley Stream last August.
“I have had the privilege of working with a dedicated team and supportive board of directors that few others have experienced. I’m extremely proud to have had the opportunity to impact the way we respond to food insecurity on a local, state, and national level through my involvement in the Feeding America network,” Pachter said in the release.
“I look forward to welcoming the next president and
Courtesy Long Island Cares
After serving as president and CEO of Long Island Cares for 17 years, Paule Pachter is retiring from his role and will officially step down when his successor is named.
CEO of this historic organization in my new role as President Emeritus,” he added. “We have so much more to do to respond to hunger and to what Harry Chapin said ‘was the shame of America.’”
During Pachter’s tenure, Long Island Cares expanded its services significantly, launching mobile food distribution efforts, veterans’ initiatives, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry, among other community-focused programs.
“When I came to Long Island Cares (the cash on hand was about $8.5 million),” Pachter told the Herald. “As I’m leaving, our budget is $41 million.”
Pachter, who grew up in Brooklyn, led the organization through the creation of multiple satellite pantries, beginning with its Freeport location in 2009. He cited support from Mayor Robert Kennedy and former legislator Dave Denenberg in helping to make the pantry a reality.
Under Pachter, Long Island Cares launched mobile outreach for seniors, veterans and the homeless; and introduced a children’s breakfast food truck. He also expanded advocacy work and government relations.
Pachter was a social worker and served as a Nassau County Department of Mental Health deputy commissioner. He was in an administrative role for United Cerebral Palsy and then a deputy executive director at Central Nassau Guidance and Counseling Services. “It has always been a passion for me to help people in need,” he said.
“Paule has been an immeasurable asset to Long Island Cares,” David Herold, Long Island Cares board president said in the release. “Paule’s drive and ingenuity led to the creation of many programs and services, including mobile food pantries, a food pantry network, a variety of veterans’ programs, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry. “Not only does Paule’s legacy greatly benefit Long Islanders every day, but his broad vision has been duplicated by food banks nationally to benefit our country’s food insecure,” Herold added.
He said that other than founders Harry and Sandy Chapin, no one person has had a greater impact at Long Island Cares than Paule Pachter. “It has been an honor and privilege to work with him,” he said. “I and the entire board look forward to continuing to work with Paule through and after this transition.”
Celebrating Long Island’s local businesses
By MADISON GUSLER
Over 750 members of Long Island’s business community joined the Herald for the fourth annual Herald Long Island Choice Award’s ceremony. People packed the ballroom at Crest Hollow County Club to hear about the best Long Island has to offer.
The Long Island Choice Awards presented by PSEG Long Island on May 13 is a community choice award organized by RichnerLIVE Events that involves local communities in electing the best businesses in a range of categories. Companies and organizations across the Island are elected in 250 categories before undergoing three rounds of voting to whittle away the top three competitors. The winners are announced at the annual gala and are officially recognized as the best Long Island has to offer.
This year’s event was the biggest RichnerLIVE Events has ever held. We congratulate all the winners and runner-ups on their amazing accomplishments!
“It is once again a privilege for our companies to host this great event,” Stuart Richner, publisher of the Long Island Herald and CEO of Richner Communications, said. “Remember tonight is not just about celebration, it’s about creating unforgettable moments and sharing in the joy of success.”
“The people in this room are the economic engines of our communities,” he said. “As a second generation business owner myself, I know how challenging leading a business can be. But leading a
business can also be incredibly rewarding, and the rewards certainly outweigh the challenges.”
“The Long Island Choice Awards celebrates Long Island businesses for their resilience, strength, innovation, excellence and an unwavering dedication to their communities,” David Lyons, interim president and COO of PSEG Long Island, said. “Without your hard work, we would not have the thriving downtown districts in so many of the local Long Island neighborhoods that we call home.”
Lyons noted PSEG’s business customer advocate program and the team that assists businesses in navigating their programs and services.
“They work tirelessly to support small businesses that fuel our local economy, offering personalized guidance and solutions,” he said. The team offers multiple services, including free energy assessments that help businesses save on costs.
“We’ve been around for 55 years, since the 1970s,” Matthew Kahn, president of Friends of Bridge, Inc., said.
“We’re a local not-for-profit which really helps our community. We’re very well respected by the community and we’re very proud to have won this award tonight.” The Valley Streambased outpatient alcohol and drug treatment agency won the award for best addiction rehabilitation center.
“I feel humbled to be able to even do what I do, to help people heel,” Kimberly Zedalis with Integrative Health and Wellness, Inc. in Farmingdale, said. Zedalis accepted the award for best functional medicine. “This has just
been an incredible journey that I’ve been on in my life and I’m elated to win.”
Several organizations and businesses won multiple awards. Molloy University took home three, including best adult education/continuing education programs, best university and best university president.
“Like anytime our university gets the accolades it deserves, I’m proud of our accomplishments,” James Lentini, university president, said.
To view more pictures please visit RichnerLive.com/lichoice. To see a complete list of the 2025 Long Island Choice winners visit LiHerald.com/ long-island-choice-awards.
Photo by Tim Baker
Keynote Speaker, Interim President and COO from PSEG Long Island, David C. Lyons
Photo by Tim Baker
Long Island businesses await the announcement of their category winners
Photo by Holden Leeds
The Stroke & Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island
Photo by Tim Baker
Emcee’s Jon Daniels from K-Joy 98.3 and Reporter Antoinette Biordi from News 12
Photo by Holden Leeds
Dr. Ryan Sugarman from Memorial Sloan Kettering
Photo by Tim Baker
Calmer U Holistic Health Care Center & Spa in East Rockaway
Photo by Tim Baker
Teemer Moving Storage in Long Beach
Photo by Tim Baker
Miss Long Island
Photo by Tim Baker
The Rizzuto Law Firm in Uniondale
Photo by Holden Leeds
A&C Pest Management in East Meadow
Photo by Holden Leeds
South Shore Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Freeport
Photo by Holden Leeds
Villacorta Law Group P.C.
Photo by Holden Leeds
TLC Companions Home Care in Bethpage
Photo by Holden Leeds
The Cabana in Long Beach
Photo by Holden Leeds
Ringelheim Wealth Management Group UBS in Garden City
Photo by Holden Leeds Winters Bros. Waste Systems
Photo by Holden Leeds
Davidov Law Group in New Hyde Park
Photo by Holden Leeds Azerbaijan Grill in East Meadow
Photo by Holden Leeds Hampton Inn & Suites by Rockville Centre
Photo by Holden Leeds Raagini in Baldwin
Photo by Holden Leeds Bagel Boss
Photo by Holden Leeds
President Dr. James Lentini from Molloy University in Rockville Center
Photo by Holden Leeds
The Barnyard in Farmingdale
Photo by Christine Rivera
Integrative Health and Wellness, Inc in Farmingdale
Photo by Holden Leeds Rockville Centre Auto Repair
Photo by Holden Leeds Epic Escape Rooms LI West Hempstead
By Herald Staff
Naseem Fecu 23, Baldwin
My favorite thing to do with my dad is DJ 80’s music.
What is your favorite activity to do with your dad?
Joseph Meyers 22, Baldwin
My favorite thing to do with my stepdad is talk about cars.
Kiki Dume-Charle 25, Baldwin
My favorite thing to do is play basketball with my dad.
Arielle Minkowsky 12, Levittown
Recently, after school for like 20 minutes, my dad and I have just been going outside and either have a catch with a football or play volleyball. It’s really just a fun thing that we have together.
BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN
NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE
FREE CONCERTS
EISENHOWER PARK
FREE ADMISSION | Bring Blankets or Chairs Weather permitting, call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.
Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch Restaurants, Golf Courses, Beaches and Shopping. Nassau is back and open for business!
Rubinstein 10, East Meadow I like playing Nintendo with him, because he’s really fun to play with, and he’s kind of bad at it.
Courtesy Angela Lucas
Courtesy Angela Lucas
Courtesy Angela Lucas
Charles Shaw/Herald
Julia
Charles Shaw/Herald
Five PCLI awards won
BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN
NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE presents
FREE HARRY CHAPIN LAKESIDE THEATRE CONCERTS
Friday, June 13, 7:00pm
National BBQ Festival
JD Leonard, Decades of Country
Saturday, June 14, 7:00pm
National BBQ Festival
Warren G and DJ Belal
Sunday, June 15, 10:00am-4:00pm
National BBQ Festival
Family Entertainment including:
Professional Wrestling with Champonship Entertainment Productions and Rolie Polie Guacamole
Monday, June 16, 5:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert: Manhattan Skyline & Sons of Pitches
Thursday, June 19, 7:00pm
Juneteenth Celebration
Chrisette Michele and Earth Wind & Fire Tribute by D’votion
Saturday, June 21, 7:00pm
Disco Unlimited
Monday, June 23, 7:00pm
The Mavericks
Thursday, June 26, 7:00pm Orleans and Atlantic Rhythm Section
Friday, June 27, 7:00pm
Million Dollar Reunion
featuring stars of Broadway’s Million Dollar Quartet
Saturday, June 28, 7:00pm
Freestyle Meets Salsa
featuring: TKA/K7, Tito Puente Jr., Joey Cruz, La Sonora 495, Forever Freestyle Band
Thursday, July 3, 5:30pm
(Rain date Saturday, July 5)
TD Bank Celebrate America
Fireworks & Show: Face to Face LI, Chicken Head, and Glenn Strange Band
Thursday, July 10, 7:00pm So Good – Neil Diamond Tribute
Saturday, July 12, 7:00pm Desert Highway Tribute Eagles Tribute
Sunday, July 13, 4:00pm Family Day on the Lake featuring Beauty and the Beat and wide-ranging entertainment for children and families
Thursday, July 17, 7:00pm Doo Wop Show featuring: Kid Kyle, The Capris, Vito Picone and the Elegants
Friday, July 18, 6:30pm Tribute to Harry Chapin with Corey Reiman & The Dilemma Band
Saturday, July 19, 7:00pm Russell Dickerson
Monday, July 21, 5:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert: Vinny Medugno & The Chiclettes
Friday, July 25, 7:00pm Dean Karahalis & the Concert Pops of L.I.
Saturday, July 26, 7:00pm
Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway
Thursday, July 31, 7:00pm
Christopher Macchio & The Nassau Pops: Opera and The Classics
Friday, August 1, 7:00pm Half Step - Grateful Dead Tribute
Saturday, August 2, 6:45pm Salute to Veterans
American Bombshells & Streetfighter - Rolling Stones Tribute
Sunday, August 3, 6:00pm The 42nd Infantry Division Band, NY Army National Guard
Thursday, August 7, 7:00pm
Lady Supreme A Diana Ross Experience
Friday, August 8, 7:00pm The Boss Project - The Premier Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band
Thursday, August 14, 7:00pm The Castellows
Friday, August 15, 7:00pm Dancing Dream - ABBA Tribute
Saturday, August 16, 7:00pm
Midtown Men - Original Cast of Jersey Boys
Monday, August 18, 5:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert: Stan Zizka & The Del Satins
Thursday, August 21, 7:00pm Let’s Sing Taylor Taylor Swift Experience
Friday, August 22, 7:00pm Yachtley Crew 70s and 80s Soft Rock
Friday, August 29, 7:00pm
Misty Mountain, Led Zeppelin Tribute and Who’s Next, The Who Tribute
Saturday, August 30, 7:00pm Elvis Crespo
Sunday, September 14, 6:00pm Ashley McBryde
Friday, September 19, 7:00pm
Parti-Gras with Bret Michaels and a Renowned Former Lead Guitarist –TBA
Friday, September 26, 8:00pm Steve Aoki with DJ Theo and Untamed
EISENHOWER PARK
FREE ADMISSION | Bring Blankets or Chairs | Parking Field #6
Weather permitting, call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.
Five different newspapers under the Herald Community Media banner took home five awards at the annual Press Club of Long Island at the Fox Hollow Country Club.
The five-part series on the hidden dangers of noise and light captured first place in the Narrative Environment category. The writers were former Herald reporter Nicole Formisano, and current staffers editor Will Sheeline and reporter Angelina Zingariello.
The judges said: “Compelling, wellwritten, well-researched series covering noise, air, and light pollution. Not only scientific, their words also touch the human soul.”
Formisano also took home a second place award in the Narrative Obituaries category. Her piece in the Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald illustrated how a grief support group was dealing with their own sorrow after losing the group’s leader Angela Mendola.
In the same category, editor Roksana Amid received a third place award for the remembrance of Bob Canavan for the Glen Cove Herald.
Amid was also part of the team that included Sheeline and another former Herald staffer Laura Lane that took third place in the Narrative Government & Politics category for “Souzzi’s win: Examining the voting dynamics.”
Senior reporter Mohammad Rafiq also collected a third place award in the Narrative Non-local News/Feature category for his story “Journalist unearths
and honors Civil War Ancestor.”
“At Herald Community Media, we strive every day to deliver impactful, community-focused journalism — and earning five Press Club of Long Island awards is a proud testament to our team’s dedication and the trust our readers place in us,” Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., said about the June 5 recognition. The Press Club of Long Island is open to professional and student members of the Society of Professional Journalists. To learn more, visit PCLI.org.
–Jeffrey Bessen
Michael Romero/Herald Herald Community Media won five PCLI awards on June 5. Editor Will Sheeline and reporter Angelina Zingariello.
High school seniors learn about Narcan
explained to the students the physical and behavioral signs of opioid abuse, what those drugs do to a body’s central nervous system, the causes of a drug overdose, the 911 Good Samaritan Law, how long withdrawals take, and how Narcan reverses the negative effects of an overdose.
More than 900 students received the training at Calhoun alone. The seminar is an extension of the physical education curriculum that gives seniors important information to carry over into college or their next life endeavor.
“Most importantly for us is that they have the training in the event that they’re ever faced with a potential overdose, where they can act quickly and not be afraid to act,” said Calhoun physical education, athletic, and health director Eric Caballero. “Dr. Williamson does a great job explaining that whether they’re under the influence or not, they are not going to get in trouble and they’re protected by the Good Samaritan Law. That’s really the premise of this.”
Williamson also relayed a story about an encounter her daughter had as a high school teacher in Westchester when five of her students became unresponsive in her classroom after taking gummies earlier in the day. The teacher called 911 and immediately summoned the school nurse, who administered Narcan to two of the students while paramedics gave it to the final three, saving them all.
After taking questions from the student audience, Williamson brought a volunteer up to the auditorium stage to help demonstrate how Narcan is dispensed to a person undergoing a drug
overdose. At the conclusion of the training, each senior received a kit with two free Narcan samples and an ID card that shows they are trained to administer the medication.
“The one thing is that don’t be afraid to act, to step in to use it, there’s no downside,” Williamson said of her message to the students. “We’re giving out 1,000 doses. If we save one kid’s life, it’s worth it.”
Seniors in the Bellmore-merrick school district were officially narcan certified on June 4.
director eric Caballero, and Williamson hosted the event at Calhoun High School.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Mario Colagrande, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 28, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 23, 2025 at 3:30 PM, premises known as 2548 Columbus Avenue, North Bellmore, NY 11710 a/k/a Bellmore, NY 11710. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at North Bellmore, in the Town of Hempstead, County
of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 51, Block: 523, Lot: 34. Approximate amount of judgment $538,029.40 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #006084/2013. Ralph Madalena, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-045119-F00 85460< /p> 153608
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2006-AM2, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-AM2 , Plaintiff,
AGAINST ROSARIO TZIMAS A/K/A ROSARIO T. TZIMAS, BILL TZIMAS, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on July 11, 2023.
I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 3, 2025 at 2:00 PM premises known as 2405 Wallen Lane North Bellmore, NY 11710.
Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.
All that certain plot piece or parcel of land,
with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in North Bellmore, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 56, Block 491 and Lot 28. Approximate amount of judgment $897,632.21 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #602164/2019.
Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 153965
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
Courtesy Todd Haiken
Brian Kacharaba/Herald
Courtesy Todd Haiken Williamson visited all three Bellmore-merrick high schools and the meadowbrook alternative program to discuss how to identify a drug overdose and the benefits of narcan.
numC health services administrator todd Haiken, from left, physical education, athletic, and health
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
Alterations Seamstress
Flexible P/T, Experienced For Women's Clothing And Gowns. Work From Home. Must Have Proper Sewing Machine And Be Able To Speak And Read English. Lawrence Location. Text 516-314-4810
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT
Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Health Care/Opportunities
HEALTHCARE WORKER with 40Yrs Experience Working with the Aging/ Geriatric Population is Seeking Position Caring for a Senior with Flexible Scheduling. 516-640-4204
Household Help Offered
HOUSEKEEPING/
HomesHERALD
What permits do we need before we sell?
Classic
Apartments For Rent
MERRICK HUGE STUDIO, Separate Entrance, Off Street Parking, Renovated, Mint. One Person, No Smoking/ Pets, $1,700 Includes All Utilities Call 516-362-0655.
Q. I’m trying to figure out what to do about the old construction on my house that I am being told needs permits before I can finish selling. First, I understand that I may have to pay a penalty, and second, I’m wondering why my buyer says they will take over and get permits after we close but their attorney says it’s a lot more complicated because we didn’t get a flood repair permit after Hurricane Sandy. What can you tell me about this? It seems much more complicated than it needs to be.
A. This is a typical case of “you snooze, you lose.” I regularly hear from people who tell me that their friends, contractors, even their attorneys, in some cases, give them “off the record” advice not to make waves, not to do anything. But the issues and requirements don’t just go away, and design professionals are held back from what you really wanted them to do, like an addition or a home makeover, many years later.
Waiting and ignoring the requirements has put you in a much more difficult situation. Since Sandy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has required that people who received funding, whether directly from the federal agency or through public funds like New York Rising, had to confirm that the funds were put toward the repairs they were meant for. It’s just like providing your car insurance company the receipts and/or an inspection to confirm that the money they gave you for repairs was spent on the car, and not on some fraudulent luxury expense.
In 2013, your municipality required a repair permit, and instead of repeatedly contacting you, they opted to say that they notified you (once or twice), and now it’s your problem that you didn’t respond. The friction this created has lasted long after the memory of the flood turmoil has diminished. People feel ambushed, but arguing or passing on the requirement doesn’t make it go away.
In fact, one of the requirements is a “proof of loss” letter issued to the property owner, preferably the person who owned the property at the time of the flood. Switching to the next owner just complicates the process. Even though repair permits do not have a permit fee, most people made improvements during repairs, and your municipality recently doubled the fees for property improvements. So putting off the repair is now going to cost even more, which your buyer’s attorney might also realize while protecting the buyer.
When it comes to building department fees, one of the biggest municipalities, whose fees were more lenient, just raised them substantially. A couple who applied for permits in 2019, later hampered by the pandemic, saw their projected fees go from $2,000 to $4,600 this past month. Yes, it really did take that long, due to the pandemic and the stages of approval they had to go through, and they weren’t snoozing. Listen to the buyer’s attorney and follow through. Good luck!
Ask The Architect
Monte
Stuff HERALD
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E-TRIKE BICYCLE 2025 : With Upgrades Includes Better Pedals, Cell Phone Holder And Lock. $2000.00. Please Call Lynn 516-384-9447
PIANO FOR SALE. Baby Grand With Matching Bench. Burl Wood. Excellent Condition. Must See! 516-672-3331 Wanted To
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DALE TIFFANY STAINED glass floor lamp, $55. Call 516-678-0694 for photo. FURNITURE: QUEEN, BEDROOM Headboard (w/ storage) Bed frame base, Birch wood. Beautiful, MINT $99.(516)-225-9191
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NEW BOAT MARINE Life Vests Chest 30"-50" 2 for $25. 516 445-3212 RED FOX JACKET exquisite made to order. $100. Perfect cond. Home phone 516-546-0275 leave message STEMWARE, CRYSTAL FROM Macy's Water, Wine, Champagne. 6 each. Original Boxes. Never Used. $99. (516)225-9191 THREE STROLLERS IN one: Graco Modes Bassinet LX Stroller, excellent, check video online. $99.l 516-678-0694
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OpINIONS
County supports victims of domestic, sexual violence
The unfortunate closure of The Safe Center LI, a private nonprofit agency that served victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, has understandably raised concern across our community and in my office. As soon as I learned that the Safe Center was having financial problems, I launched an investigation to determine whether Nassau County taxpayer dollars were being misused and to ensure that services for victims of domestic and sexual violence would continue to be available. We found that there was no abuse of funds, and that the county has stepped up as a leader— ensuring that victims continue to receive uninterrupted care, protection, and support. County Executive Bruce Blakeman and his administration acted swiftly and decisively to preserve access to critical services and mobilize partnerships with state agencies and local nonprofits. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding our response and protecting our most vulnerable residents.
Uninterrupted services for victims
Although The Safe Center LI was not a county-run agency, the county has long supported its mission. As soon as financial instability became clear, County officials worked in close coordination with the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the state Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and other trusted partners to ensure that no services lapsed.
24/7 crisis support remains available
Victims can still access confidential help:
■ Call: (516) 542-0404
■ Text: (844) 997-2121
Sfully staffed and responsive.
Emergency housing and shelter
When The Safe Center’s residential facility closed, the county’s Department of Social Services immediately stepped in—relocating residents and continuing emergency housing operations through a strong alliance with the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence. This rapid response ensured no disruption in shelter services for victims and their children.
ervices for children impacted by abuse remain active and coordinated.
■ Chat: opdv.ny.gov/survivors-victims
In-person assistance and walk-In services
Victims may also:
■ Visit any Nassau County Police Department precinct
■ Go to the Department of Social Services at 60 Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Uniondale
■ Call the Nassau County Crime Victim Advocate at (516) 571-1598
These county-based services remain
NSupport for child victims
Services for children impacted by abuse remain active and coordinated. As before, multidisciplinary teams, including law enforcement and legal professionals, continue to meet with young victims in child-friendly settings to reduce emotional trauma.
Legal services remain available
Attorneys who previously worked for The Safe Center have transitioned to Legal Services of Long Island, where they continue to support victims, including ongoing and new cases. This transition was managed seamlessly to avoid disruption for survivors in need of legal protection.
In politics, silence isn’t neutral
assau County Executive Bruce Blakeman recently stated that “having the President of the United States as a friend of Nassau County is a very good thing.”
SETH I. KOSLOW
If that’s true, then where’s the proof? The biggest pocketbook issue facing Nassau residents right now is the same one that’s hit us hard for nearly a decade — the $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions signed into law by Donald Trump in 2017. This cap has effectively doubletaxed middleclass families across Long Island and crushed homeowners already paying the highest property taxes in America.
Now, in Trump’s second term, Congress is gearing up to revisit SALT — and Nassau’s representatives, including Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen, are fighting to restore it. Even some Republican members of Congress have spoken out and are demanding relief. But our county executive? Not a word.
This is exactly the kind of moment Blakeman claims his Trump relationship is good for. But when it comes time to actually stand up for taxpayers, he is absent.
BSALT is just the beginning. Blakeman has also said nothing about the devastating impact Trump’s proposed budget would have on Long Islanders — especially working families, children and seniors. That includes deep cuts to Medicaid, which supports services for students with disabilities in our schools and healthcare access for more than 680,000 Long Islanders. He’s said nothing about the $300 billion in potential cuts to SNAP, which helps feed 150,000 Long Islanders. If passed, these cuts would fund a tax break for the ultra-wealthy on the backs of the families who can least afford it. Blakeman’s silence isn’t strategic — it’s telling. Time and again, he’s been loud when it helps him politically and quiet when it comes to delivering real results.
Time for Leadership, not politics
In times of crisis, the community needs steady leadership—not political gamesmanship. It is disappointing—and frankly, shameful—that some individuals have attempted to exploit this unfortunate situation for political gain. I am proud to report that Blakeman, the County Legislature, and the entire county team have kept the focus exactly where it belongs: on victims and their families.
Accountability and moving forward
The Safe Center’s closure was the result of financial decisions made independently by its leadership. Although it was a valued service provider, it was a nonprofit — not operated, managed, or financially overseen by the county. While the county and state fulfilled all financial commitments under contract, the agency’s financial model proved unsustainable. My office worked closely with The Safe Center to wind down operations responsibly and transparently.
A strong future built on partnership
I will continue to be the independent protector of all taxpayers, and we will continue to lead with compassion, integrity, and action—because protecting victims is not about politics. It’s about doing what’s right.
Elaine Phillips is the Nassau County Comptroller.
— it’s a choice
ther — and by keeping assessed values frozen, he’s made the system more unfair and indefensible than ever. Yet, at his recent State of the County address, he made the puzzling statement that he “fixed” the problem.
eing county executive isn’t about who you know. It’s about who you fight for.
It may be fixed if you’re a politically connected tax grievance firm that benefits from the return of mass settlements, but it sure isn’t if you’re a homeowner whose property tax bill is soaring.
Then, take his selfdeclared commitment to women’s safety. While he held press conferences and made promises, The Safe Center — Nassau’s only 24/7 resource for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault — was forced to shut down on his watch. No plan. No public urgency. Just silence.
had little to say as $9 billion in growth he promised evaporated.
He talks tough on public safety, but when it came time to fund first responders in districts represented by Democratic legislators, he wouldn’t even pick up the phone to negotiate an agreement — until we, as a caucus, forced him to do the right thing.
While preaching fiscal discipline, he’s earmarked $10 million in federal pandemic money for 125th anniversary parties that, by and large, didn’t materialize and handed out $20 million in outside legal contracts — many to politically connected firms — and pushed an unlawful, unnecessary and dangerous armed militia program with no public support.
Being county executive isn’t about who you know. It’s about who you fight for.
While running for office in 2021, Blakeman promised to cut our taxes and fix Nassau’s assessment system. As county executive, he has achieved nei-
The same is true of his promises of economic development. He loudly trumpeted a proposed Las Vegas Sands casino resort at the Nassau Hub and a multi-billion dollar NYU Langone teaching hospital on the campus of Nassau Community College, but with the hospital plan now dead and the casino on life support at best, Blakeman has
If Blakeman wants to brag about his friendship with the president, it’s time he used that relationship to actually help Nassau’s taxpayers — not just himself.
Because when you have the platform, the power and the connections, silence on these issues isn’t just disappointing. It’s disqualifying.
Seth I. Koslow represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.
A life celebrated for my brother, Kevin
My brother Kevin recently passed away. Death is a reality each family must confront. There’s no denying death’s heartbreaking impact on family and friends. But it’s important we take the opportunity to celebrate the life of the family member and friend we lost. My experiences with death growing up were as a Catholic altar boy assisting at funeral masses. The priest wore black vestments. The music and hymns were beyond somber. “Dies Irae,” an essential prayer at the Requiem Mass, was a Latin term depicting Judgment Day as the “Day of Wrath.” From my recollection, the funeral service was far from uplifting.
All that would change during the reforms emanating from the Vatican Council of the early and mid-1960’s, symbolized by the Requiem Mass, now called a “Celebration of Life,” were white priests’ vestments being substituted for black and “Dies Irae” being discarded.
Kevin, whose death followed almost
itwo years of suffering from a debilitating, rare form of blood cancer, did have his life celebrated by family and friends. Kevin was my younger brother but, as he always reminded me, a better athlete. A mediocre student in high school, he emerged at St. John’s University, graduating with honors and going on to enjoy an extremely successful career working for an industrial parts company with national and international operations, allowing Kevin to comfortably retire at a much younger age than I did.
Kevin was similar to our father ... never resentful or jealous of anyone.
Most important, Kevin was dedicated to his family — his wife JoAnne with whom he celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary last summer; his children Tara and Kevin; and his grandchildren K.J., Sienna and Camryn. Kevin was also a Mets fan who not only had season tickets but also would attend Mets spring training games at Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Kevin was similar to our father being intensely loyal and never resentful or jealous of anyone. So long as his family was doing well and was healthy, that was more than enough for him. Also emulating our father, Kevin never once complained or bemoaned his fate during more than 18 months of devastating ill-
ness, which he knew was bound to be terminal. He would speak to me matterof-factly: “I might not make it this time, but you never know,” before telling me “K.J. went 4-4 the other night and threw out a guy trying to steal” or “Sienna is really getting good at soccer.” Our conversations always ended upbeat. Kevin was particularly thankful to our sister Barbara, a retired nurse, who was supporting and advocating for him continually throughout his illness.
In the last conversation I had with Kevin just six days before he died, he reminded me of a Mets dinner we attended in 2016 when Mets first baseman Lucas Duda and Islanders great Bobby Nystrom were at our table. Days later, Kevin was brought from Plainview Hospital, where he had received such outstanding care, to his home in Seaford, where he passed away peacefully.
Kevin’s wake at Schmitt Funeral Home was indeed a celebration. Family members, including cousins we hadn’t seen in a while, were there. So too were local officials, including County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Chairman Joe Cairo and congressmen Nick LaLota and Tom Suozzi, labor leader Anthony Simon and All-American Notre Dame
quarterback Terry Hanratty. Though Kevin was not a member of either of their parishes, Monsignor Steve Camp from St. Patrick in Huntington and Fr. Joe Fitzgerald from St. William in Seaford came by to offer their uplifting celebratory condolences. Then there were the neighbors and people he worked with over the years sharing their memories of Kevin’s thoughtfulness and loyalty. Most moving was the outstanding, heartfelt speech given by his son Kevin.
The Celebration of Life Mass at Maria Regina Church the next morning was indeed a fitting finale to Kevin’s life, as were the patriotic musical renditions by the Nassau Police Pipe Band before and after the Mass and the dignified carrying of his flag-draped coffin by members of the NYPD Ceremonial Unit, which had been formed by our father more than a half-century ago. The final sendoff was a moving Honor Guard ceremony, which included the playing of taps by the 11th New York Regiment United States VolunteersAmerica at St. Charles Cemetery.
In true Irish tradition, our celebration of Kevin’s life continued through the afternoon at Paddy’s Loft Pub! Kevin R.I.P.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
The Rich Must Tread Lightly in Politics
f you are familiar with the musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” you know the song “If I Were A Rich Man.?”
In that song ,Tevye, the patriarch of the family, dreams of all of the trappings that come with being rich . There is no doubt that there are many benefits to being affluent and most rich people can conquer many of life’s challenges. In my thinking, there is one exception, where the rich can’t always buy their way and that’s in the field of politics. There are so many examples of cases where the very rich try their luck in the political world and get burned by the experience. The most obvious is the current case of Elon Musk, said to be the wealthiest person in the world. Musk made his first foray into the political minefield when he decided to spend tons of personal wealth to help re-elect President Trump.
The real numbers are elusive but it is estimated that he invested at least
T$250 million in the 2024 national election. Most of the funds went to the Trump campaign but a sizeable amount went to various races around the country, including a judicial contest in Wisconsin. The race for the top court post didn’t work out so well as Musk’s candidate took a beating in a race where the incumbent used the Musk name as a successful weapon.
Undeterred by his Wisconsin loss, Musk plunged into the Washington battlefield by becoming the head of the Department of Governmental Efficiency (D.O.G.E.) To a businessman used to having his way all the time, taking a government position aimed at creating efficiencies in government sounded like a dream job. Being able to cut waste and fraud sounds like becoming a Superman in the nation’s capitol.
dealerships ablaze is enough to give any rich man a super migraine headache. Having many of his visions dashed by the GOP Congress, Musk is now back in Texas.
here are countless others who had unlimited funds and backers who flamed out.
Another example of a rich man getting burned in the political world is Michael Bloomberg. Bloomberg’s political career started out with great long-term promise. Having brilliantly run his own company, he chose to run for the job of Mayor of New York City. The voters were anxious to have a Bloomberg take over the city and he succeeded in having three effective terms in office. Buoyed by his highly acclaimed tenure as mayor, Bloomberg decided to dip his toe into national waters and run for president.
to participate in a national candidates debate. Unprepared for such an event, he was ambushed on national television by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). In a short 24 hours, his candidacy ended.
There are countless others who had unlimited funds and backers who flamed out when they pushed their fame and fortune a little too hard. Kelly Loeffler, who now chairs the Trump S.B.A., was an interim U.S. Senator for two years. Her wealthy family backed in her run for a six-year term, but Democrat Jon Ossoff upset her efforts. David Purdue, another wealthy Georgia resident who had strong corporate credentials, lost his re-election run to Democrat Rev. Raphael Warnock.
A short time ago Musk announced he was returning to the private sector to take care of his many businesses. By all counts, Musk has lost at least $100 billion in wealth, including a 51 percent loss in the value of the Tesla Company. That was bad enough, but to have people burning Tesla cars and setting Tesla
With a budget of at least $1 billion, the Bloomberg presidential effort got off to a brilliant start. He assembled great political minds on his staff and created a model political campaign. From personal observations, his operation was smooth, well-planned and highly professional. Many prominent business figures offered their backing and all was well until the mayor chose
There are dozens more stories of politicians whose money couldn’t buy short or long-term political happiness. And there are quite a few successful rich people serving at all levels of government. But there is a caveat for all rich men and women. If you think money alone will get you to the top in politics you are deluding yourself.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
JERRY KREMER
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Saving the environment means fixing our lawns
Suburban America, and Long Island, has always been defined by its picket white fences, apple pie, and of course emeraldgreen lawns, perfectly mowed in house after house. But this idyllic dream hides a growing ecological nightmare; these lawns are an environmentally disastrous drain on Long Island’s water supply, habitat and wildlife, and even the pocketbooks of regular homeowners.
This is why we need to begin embracing sustainable landscaping, before it’s too late.
At its core, sustainable landscaping revolves around harmonizing green spaces with native flora, a practice that inherently supports local wildlife. By opting for plants naturally adapted to the region’s climate and soil, homeowners create havens for birds and other animals. These native species not only provide crucial habitats but also bolster biodiversity, essential for maintaining resilient ecosystems in an ever-changing world.
Long Island boasts a wide variety of beautiful native grasses, such as Broomsedge and Appalachian sedge or tufted hair grass. Despite this, the most popular grass species on Long Island lawns are tall fescue (from Europe), perennial ryegrass (from Eurasia and North Africa) and Kentucky bluegrass (from Eurasia and North Africa).
Because these species are not native to Long Island and most lawns use only a single grass species, this leaves what are effectively ecological dead zones; the beautiful green lawn reduces biodiversity, which means fewer bugs and birds visit to help pollinate nearby plants and flowers, which chokes out life and nutrition from the soil and eventually, from Long Island itself.
Insects like bees, butterflies and beetles, critical pollinators and prey for larger species, struggle to survive in
letterS
these sterile grass monocultures that offer little food or shelter. Without these insects, birds lose a key food source, especially during nesting season. A mother chickadee, for example, needs thousands of caterpillars to raise a brood. But caterpillars only thrive on native plants. When yards are dominated by turfgrass and exotic ornamentals, the local food web begins to collapse.
This habitat loss ripples up the food chain. Foxes, squirrels, chipmunks, and deer rely on complex plant life for food, cover, and breeding grounds. Traditional lawns fragment the landscape, replacing vital thickets and understory with flat expanses that support little biodiversity. Even suburban predators, such as owls and hawks, struggle when the small mammals they hunt become scarce.
In addition to destroying our environment, this process also weakens the initial goal of having a beautiful lawn by killing the nutrients in the soil, making it harder for the transplanted grass to grow, demanding more water from our aquifers, which are already nearly wrung dry.
Water scarcity concerns are not foreign to Long Island, making sustainable landscaping a pragmatic choice. By selecting drought-resistant plants and employing water-efficient irrigation methods, such as drip systems and rainwater harvesting, residents significantly reduce their reliance on municipal water supplies. This not only conserves a precious resource but also mitigates runoff pollution, ensuring cleaner waterways and healthier aquatic ecosystems.
Traditional lawn care often involves heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can adversely impact soil health and pose risks to human health and wildlife. Since Long Island is after all, an island, we also have to worry about this from the lens of its impact on our Sound. Fertilizer runoff is high in nitrogen, and constant runoff has fueled
Federal money for fire departments
To the Editor:
As a member of the in Nassau and Suffolk counties to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program.
Thank you for serving on the front lines and protecting our communities from fires, emergencies, and natural disasters. As a representative in Congress, I’m committed to supporting our first responders by maximizing the federal resources we bring back from Washington to Long Island to help you do your jobs safely and effectively.
The program aims to help fire departments, including volunteer departments, recruit, retain, and increase the number of trained firefighters available in their community.
My team and I are eager to assist you, and I would be glad to
the Sound’s rising temperature and increasing number of algal blooms in the past two decades.
In contrast, sustainable practices emphasize natural soil amendments like compost and organic matter, fostering nutrient-rich soils that support vigorous plant growth without synthetic inputs. Integrated Pest Management techniques further minimize pesticide use by leveraging natural predators and cultural practices, ensuring pest control without compromising environmental integrity.
The benefits of sustainable landscaping extend beyond aesthetics. Dense, healthy lawns act as effective filters, trapping dust, pollutants, and carbon dioxide while releasing oxygen—a vital contribution to improving local air quality. Moreover, practices such as composting and mulching enrich soil structure, promoting microbial activity and enhancing its ability to sequester carbon—a crucial strategy in combating climate change.
Individually, each sustainable landscape may seem modest in scale, but collectively, they form a formidable force for environmental change across Long Island. As more residents adopt these practices, the cumulative effect reverberates through neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces, fostering a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience.
Transitioning to sustainable landscaping begins with understanding local soil and climate conditions, selecting appropriate native plants, and adopting waterefficient irrigation practices. Regular soil testing and thoughtful plant selection tailored to Long Island’s unique ecosystem are pivotal in creating thriving, low-maintenance landscapes.
We only have one island. Together, we can preserve Long Island as an Edenic paradise where our families can live, grow and play safely and healthily for decades.
Alarmed over Hochul’s plan to expand nuclear power
Gov. Kathy Hochul is making a major push to not only build new nuclear plants in New York State, but also to make New York “the center of a nuclear revival in the u.S.,” Mark Dunlea, chair of the Green Education and Legal Fund and a leader on environmental issues, said in a recent email calling for support to “stop Hochul’s nuclear push.” Dunlea, author of the book “Putting Out the Planetary Fire,” was cofounder of both the New York Public Interest Research Group and national PIRG. He said Hochul “buys the argument that nuclear is carbon-free, avoiding looking at the life cycle of nuclear and its carbon footprint,” which includes, he noted, significant emissions of carbon in uranium mining, milling, enrichment, fuel fabrication and at other points.
So far, Dunlea said, Hochul has been focusing on upstate for new nuclear
development rather than, “at the moment,” Long Island. For decades, a battle raged that stopped the plan of the Long Island Lighting Company to build seven to 11 nuclear power plants here. If there is again a plan for placement of nuclear power plants on Long Island, Dunlea said, “hopefully, Long Islanders would stand up and beat it back.” Hochul has also become involved in promoting nuclear power nationally.
The Clean Air Task Force, based in Queens, which advocates nuclear power, issued a press release in February stating: “The National Association of State Energy officials announced a multi-state initiative to accelerate advanced nuclear energy projects” that was “first previewed by Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York last month and will be co-chaired by New York.” The heading of the release: “New York leads multi-state consortium to drive nuclear energy deployment …” What the nuclear industry and nuclear power supporters in government are calling “advanced” nuclear power plants, the union of Concerned Scientists has
Letters
write a letter asking for full and fair consideration of your application.
The FEMA SAFER Grant program provides federal funding directly to career, combined, and volunteer fire departments for hiring new, additional firefighters, and for the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.
In FY24, there is $324 million available through the program. These grants are already appropriated from our tax dollars. But you must apply to get these funds to come to our communities or they will go to other towns and cities across the country. You may find additional information about the program at fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/safer and access the Notice of Funding Opportunity and fema. gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_ gpd_safer-nofo_fy24.pdf.
The deadline to apply for the Fiscal Year 2024 SAFER grant program is July 3 at 5 p.m. eastern time. You can complete the full application at Go.Fema.gov. You may also contact the SAFER Program Help Desk for technical assistance and any questions you might have as you apply at: (866) 274-0960 or by email at FireGrants@ fema.dhs.gov.
Please do not hesitate to contact my office by calling (202) 225-5516 for any support or assistance. Thank you for your work to help protect and secure our communities, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to make Long Island safer.
LAuRA A. GILLEN Member of Congress
determined in a report, are no better — “and in some respects significantly worse” — than current nuclear plants.
a battle raged that stopped the plan ... to build seven to 11 nuclear power plants.
Tim Judson, executive director of the Nuclear Information and Resource Service, points out that Hochul made nuclear power “a specific priority in her State of the State speech” in January. In it, she declared: “The economy of the future: microchips fabs (fabrication plants). Data centers and the supercomputers that power AI need tremendous amounts of energy. To support these industries, we’ve already started developing an advanced nuclear strategy.” Hochul is a Democrat, but there is support for nuclear power among Republican officials in New York, too.
As the Syracuse.com website has reported: “Fort Drum, the u.S. Army base outside Watertown, could become the first New York site to try advanced nuclear power technology if the Army goes along with pleas from … u.S. Reps. Elise Stefanik and Claudia Tenney, both upstate Republicans.” They “issued a joint letter October 25 urging the Army to put Fort Drum first in line for one of
Harvesting summer aid
To the Editor:
Summer is near, and while that means sunshine and beach days, it also means uncertainty for many Long Islanders about where their next meal will come from.
Hunger doesn’t take a vacation, and unfortunately, food insecurity spikes during the summer when school meal programs pause and food donations tend to slow down. That’s why PSEG Long Island has launched our fifth annual Power to Feed Long Island food drive, a civic effort to support our neighbors in need.
Starting June 13 in Massapequa and through the end of September, PSEG will be setting up food collection bins at eight Stop & Shop supermarkets across the Island — one location every other Friday. The list can be found at PsegLiNy.com/ feedLI. We encourage everyone to donate nonperishable food items and personal care essentials, all of which will be distributed through our partners at Island Harvest Food Bank to local pantries, soup kitchens, and food programs throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
As a small token of thanks, PSEG Long Island volunteers will be offering free LED light bulbs and reusable shopping bags to donors. Representatives will also be on hand to provide information about energy efficiency and financial assistance programs. Island Harvest staff will share how they are working to combat hunger every day.
the small modular nuclear reactors.” Stefanik is a front-runner to challenge Hochul for governor in 2026. The Syracuse.com piece noted Hochul’s drive for “new nuclear power in New York,” which was highlighted by her having “hosted an energy summit (in September) in Syracuse that focused heavily on nuclear power.”
Laura Shindell, New York State director of the organization Food & Water Watch, criticizes what she terms “Governor Hochul’s nuclear embrace” and said she should commit to “real climate and affordable energy solutions.” World Nuclear News, a publication of the World Nuclear Association, ran an article in January headlined “New York State looks to advanced nuclear.” It reported that Hochul has advanced “a master plan for advanced nuclear development” and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority “has joined Constellation (Energy, the largest nuclear power plant operator in the u.S.), on a grant proposal to help it pursue an early site permit for advanced nuclear reactors” at the site of the Nine Mile Point 1 and 2 nuclear plants upstate.
Karl Grossman is an author, TV program host and journalism professor at SUNY Old Westbury.
In the past four years of Power to Feed events, Long Islanders have donated the equivalent of more than 130,000 meals. So as we get ready to enjoy backyard cookouts and Ducks games, let’s remember that there is hunger in every ZIP code on Long Island. Please join us and our part-
ners, Stop & Shop and Island Harvest, as we work to put more meals on more tables this season. Because no one should go hungry in our community.
Framework by Tim Baker
Climbing the Rope Bridge at the Huckleberry Frolic — East Rockaway
DAvID LYONS Interim President and COO PSEG Long Island
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