Bellmore Herald 01-11-2024 by Richner Communications, Inc

_________________ bellmore ________________

HERALD

Drivers who switche toho Allstate riversd w saved an averD age of $744.* switched

toyoAllstate saved an How much could u save?

2666 JERUSALEM AV E NORTH BELLMORE

and JANUARY 11, 2024

*Average annual savings of new customers surv eyed in 2021 who repo switching to Allstate. rted auto savings whe In most states, prices n vary based on how you conditions and availabi buy. Subject to term lity. Allstate Fire and s, Casualty Ins. Co. & affil Northbrook IL. © 202 iates: 2775 Sanders Rd 2 Allstate Insurance Co.

516-409-5100

Students take part in hackathon

with a focus on:

Resolutions and Healthy Lifestyle

Vol. 27 No. 3

CHRISTOPHER LUCAS

2666 JERUSALEM AVE. NORTH BELLMORE

Page 3 $1.00 $1.00

JANUARY 11 - 17, 2024

*Average annual savings of new customers surveyed savings when switching to in 2021 who reported auto buy. Subject to terms, condAllstate. In most states, prices vary based on & affiliates: 2775 Sanders itions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualtyhow you Rd., Northbrook IL. © 2024 Ins. Allstate Insurance Co. Co.

1241125

your HEALTH

16731229

average of $744 How much could you save?

CHRISTOPHER LUCA S 516-409-5100

body / mind / fitness

130-mile run is all for L.I.’s crisis center By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com

Courtesy Christopher LaMagna

Christopher LaMagna, an ultramarathon runner, completed his third 130-mile trek from Montauk to Manhattan on Jan. 6. His run raises money for the Long Island Crisis Center in Bellmore.

Ultramarathoner Christopher LaMagna once again took a journey, by foot, that many wouldn’t dare try. Last Saturday, he ran from Montauk to Manhattan — a nearly 130-mile trek — to raise money for the Long Island Crisis Center, which is based in Bellmore. LaMagna, 31, turned to running during the pandemic, as a way to alleviate stress and anxiety in a challenging time. “I started running a block, walking a block — I had no stamina,” he told the Herald. “I wanted to test myself physically and mentally — your body can take a lot if you’re able to tackle the mental process. Once you conquer that wall, you can just keep going forward.” The Queens native now lives in West Islip, and is the executive chef at the Babylon Mercantile, a cooking school and shop in Babylon. This year marks the third ContInued on page 4

Rory Kaplan abuse survivor, pens powerful memoir about life By RACHElE TERRANoVA rterranova@liherald.com

Growing up is challenging, and individual circumstances may make it easier — or much harder. For 68-year-old Rory Kaplan, the latter rang true. Living in the same North Bellmore home for over three decades, he has lear ned to make peace with his past — but his journey didn’t go without plenty of hard work and determination. Kaplan turned his story into a memoir, “No Simple Highway: The life Jour ney of a Childhood Trauma Survivor,” which was released on Nov. 2. In hopes that others may learn

found security in from it, Kaplan dove the loving, nurturinto the physical and ing perimeter of his verbal abuse he, his grandmother’s brother and sister house at a young faced at the hands of age. But that their mother while changed, he said, growing up. Severe when his immediate b e at i n g s t o o k a n family made their unbelievable toll on way out of their the siblings, he said. grandmother’s Even losing his house and moved to eyeglasses when he the southern Brookwas six years old instantly triggered RoRY KAplAN lyn neighborhood of Sheepshead Bay. his mother’s rage, His mother’s vercreating a disaster bal and physical abuse caused for him. “I somehow got through it,” Kaplan to develop anxiety, low Kaplan told the Herald, “and I self-esteem and plenty of anger about the past. came out of it.” After moving to Queens in A Brooklyn native, Kaplan

the late 1960s, his neighborhood became his lifeline. As he grew up, the dichotomy of his home life and school life became apparent. The psychological and emotional abuse he suffered at home contrasted with the success he showed in school. However, in high school, his life took a sharp turn when his grandmother suffered a stroke.

Kaplan said he found himself part of the “bad crowd.” “After the crazy partying and everything I went through in high school, all the trouble I was getting into, I just knew I wanted to get out of that,” he said. “That wasn’t really me.” Time after time, through a series of sharp and sometimes unbelievable tur ns, Kaplan faced the reinvention of his ContInued on page 2

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

Work shows others how to survive trauma used colorful characters and pivotal socibelief system, and he found his way out. etal events, striking the perfect balance He has lived with his wife in the same of amusing, heartwarming, and encourNorth Bellmore house for more than aging tales amidst the devastating abuse three decades, and they have raised their he endured. The book is available for sale on Amatwo children in the community as well. From Singapore to Latin America and zon, and was published through the comall over Europe, Kaplan has travelled to pany Larimas Press. It is available as a 22 countries, while becoming successful paperback for $19.95, on Kindle for $7.99 in both information technology and — or through the Kindle Unlimited subscription service. trade finance banking. Though his story has only Kaplan said he found solace been out for a few months, i n t h e r a p y, w h e r e h e reviews of the memoir are addressed the demons from positive. his childhood, which contin“Rory’s ability to inhabit ued to plague him during his the wounded, confused, and adult life. desperate child he was is “There is a way to survive astounding, and, in his it,” he said, “through the prose, that ephemeral place neighborhood, the relationRoRy Kaplan that divides reader from ships, and iron will to surauthor seems to evaporate,” vive and continue to move Author Rena Lipiner Katz, a fellow forward.” author, wrote on Amazon. Kaplan sought therapy for the abuse and trauma he suffered as a child “But it is Kaplan’s iron will to overcome because it continued to have an impact the abuse and trauma that scarred his on his marriage and relationships, and youth and find love and immense meanthe therapy helped him grapple with his ing from life that will remain with the reader long after the book is finished.” reality. As an author, and as a person, he “If you don’t know what you’re dealing with, you’re fighting in the dark,” he wants child abuse survivors to know that there is a way to get through trausaid. Kaplan’s book is an exposé of child- ma. “I’m a survivor,” Kaplan said. “I think hood trauma, detailing the route he took to find his way out. In the memoir, he that’s really the bottom line.”

in his book, ‘no Simple Highway: the life Journey of a Childhood trauma Survivor,’ rory Kaplan, of north Bellmore, takes the reader through his life, from childhood abuse to career success.

Continued from page 1

’m a survivor. I think that’s really the bottom line.

Rachele Terranova/Herald

Your business isn’t cookie cutter.

Your ERTC calculation shouldn’t be either. The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is one of the best kept secrets around and was recently expanded to beneﬁt more businesses. Even if you received a PPP loan, you can still qualify for this federal Covid-19 beneﬁt for up to $26,000 per employee. At Easy Tax Credits, we analyze every business from scratch. Book a free, no obligation phone call with the expert lawyers and accountants at Easy Tax Credits today!

$1,000 BONUS!

Free advertising offer with Herald Community Media* Use reference code LIHERALD-2024

EasyTaxCredits.com Phone: 1-234-CREDITS (273-3487)

1243802

Promotional offer: some restrictions apply. To qualify for promotional offer, business must enter into an agreement with Easy Tax Credits, LLC, and be eligible to receive ERTC funding. *Promotional offer furnished by Herald Community Media; Easy Tax Credits, LLC, not responsible for fulﬁllment of promotional offer.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024 Photos courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

Merrick Avenue coders worked together to tackle the Hackathon.

Middle schools compete in annual hackathon Teams from Merrick Avenue and Grand Avenue middle schools in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District faced off in a inter-district Hackathon last month. A hackathon is an event where individuals, typically pro g rammers, designers, and other tech enthusiasts, come together to collaborate intensively on software projects. The word “hack” in hackathon doesn’t necessarily refer to unauthorized access or malicious activities but rather to the creative and innovative programming efforts participants put into solving

problems or creating new applications. Under the guidance of coaches Dan Stiglitz and Michelle Biancardo, students demonstrated exceptional coding skills, creativity and teamwork. The Grand Avenue Monster coders emerged victorious. The top eight students from each building will advance to compete in the Long Island Jr. Division Kid OYO Code Conquest Hackathon on March 15 in Hauppauge. “We are proud of all the students and are excited to see their skills in action again in March,” Grand Avenue Principal Carlo Conte said.

Dylan Stone, a seventh grade coder at Grand Avenue, working on his task.

The top eight students from each building will advance to compete in the Long Island Jr. Division Kid OYO Code Conquest Hackathon.

Teams from Merrick Avenue and Grand Avenue middle schools in the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District faced off in the inter-district Hackathon.

The Grand Avenue Monster coders emerged victorious.

Runner completes trip of a lifetime, on foot Continued from page 1

time LaMagna has completed the run for the crisis center. An ultramarathon is any running race longer than a traditional marathon, which is 26.2 miles. LaMagna, challenged by a friend who told him he “couldn’t run longer than 10 miles,” decided to just keep adding miles onto training runs — and suddenly he found himself completing two marathons a week. When he started running, he didn’t do so competitively, but he has taken part in races more recently. Last month he competed in the 2023 Devil Dog Ultras, a 100-miler in Virginia, and finished third out of 44 runners. LaMagna said he decided to run for a good cause, and donate the funds to the crisis center, because he could tell it was the type of agency that would use the money effectively. “For me, if I’m going to raise money for awareness, I’d rather give it to a place that needs it,” he said. “If you walk into the (crisis center), you can tell that if I raise money for them, they’ll use the money for whatever it is they offer. I’d rather see the money used well — every dollar counts, every mile counts. I would like it to go to the right place.” The crisis center serves the needs of residents in Nassau and Suffolk counties, offering 24-hour hotlines manned

Photos courtesy Long Island Crisis Center

Lamagna, center, was joined by many people on his run from montauk to manhattan. above, with fellow runners early last Sunday morning after completing the run. by highly trained volunteers, among many other services. It also operates PFY, a subsidiary agency that supports the LGBTQ population of Long Island and Queens. LaMagna’s relationship with the crisis center developed almost on a whim, Tawni Engel, the center’s associate executive director, explained. “He found us online, and honestly, just wanted to do this to benefit a local agency that is a bit grass-roots,” Engel said. “He really liked what we did, and we’ve just developed a relationship with him over the last couple of years since

N O R T H A M E R I CA’S

1 Selling

FREE Back by Pop SHOW ular De ER P mand! AC K A GE ! Walk-In Tub

Featuring our Free Shower Package

Now you can finally have all of the soothing benefits of a relaxing warm bath, or enjoy a convenient refreshing shower while seated or standing with Safe Step Walk-In Tub’s FREE Shower Package! ✓ First walk-in tub available with a customizable shower CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 13VH11096000

✓ Fixed rainfall shower head is adjustable for your height and pivots to offer a seated shower option ✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub ✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price

Now you can have the best of both worlds–there isn’t a better, more aff ordable walk-in tub!

FREE SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

Call Toll-Free 516-717-4717 With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase.

Call Today for Your Free Shower Package

1-516-717-4717 FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH APPROVED CREDIT

1243010

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

he started doing this, and he wants to continue that. We really work to support him doing this.” And his efforts to raise money over the last few years have been so extensive that the crisis center recognized LaMagna as its 2022 Person of the Year. LaMagna began last weekend’s run in Montauk at 4 a.m. on Saturday, and ran straight through to Central Park in Manhattan, ending at a landscaped section known as Strawberry Fields. Each year he invites people to join him on the run, for a few miles or a bit longer. There are aid stations set up along the way, most of them between five and 10 miles apart. LaMagna tracked his steps on the LiveTracker app, making it easy for people to spot him and cheer him on. “He’s very dedicated,” Engel said. “This is his thing, and he absolutely loves doing it.” LaMagna offered a lot of thanks to his coach, Karl Metzler, a fellow ultramarathoner, and his crew chief, Nick Moustaka, who was at every aid station. He uses nutritional products from First Endurance, and said he takes in about 200 to 250 calories an hour, to keep his body hydrated and replenished. He does eat solid food from time to time while on long runs, like oranges and grain bars, but what he consumes toward the end of his runs might surprise the nutritionally minded.

_________________ bellmore ________________

HERALD

“Towards the end, I just like to drink Coca-Cola,” he said. “The sugar, the caffeine — it keeps me up. I can’t drink it all year round, but when I race, I know I’ll burn the calories. I might as well enjoy it.” He completed his run on Saturday with a time of 22 hours, 19 minutes, 1 second — 11 minutes faster than last year, he said. He crossed the “finish line” at Strawberry Fields at 2:19 a.m. on Sunday. His journey is about pushing himself, LaMagna said, and finding solace in something he may have never thought was possible. “It’s hard every day — it’s still hard for me,” he said. “There’s days where I want to quit and stop, but I keep going, and I think that gives me more reason to live. I think if anybody’s going to grab anything out of this, it would be to choose the hardest thing — the most challenging thing that you don’t want to do. “Go out there and do it, and keep yourself occupied,” he went on. “Push yourself a bit. You might feel more fulfilled in this life that you live.” The link to donate to LaMagna’s cause will remain live for the next week. Visit LongIslandCrisisCenter.NetworkForGood.com to learn more about his story or to make a donation.

Lamagna turned to running during the pandemic as a way to alleviate stress and anxiety. His efforts were recognized by the crisis center, which named him its 2022 person of the Year. __________________ merrick _________________

HERALD

HOW TO REACH US

Our offices are located at 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530 and are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/bellmore ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: belleditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 207 E-mail: belleditor@liherald.com

■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/merrick ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: merrickeditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 207 E-mail: merrickeditor@liherald.com

The Bellmore Herald USPS 017547, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530.

The Merrick Herald USPS 017651, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: circ@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Bellmore Herald or Merrick Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Subscription rates: $60 for 1 year. Annual Subscription Rates, $9.75 per quarter auto-pay or $50 one-time payment within Nassau County or $60 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2024 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Kiwanis donates food to community cupboard Drive Chair Arlene Gregory coordinated with the Merrick and North Merrick schools to collect toys in late November and early December. Kiwanians then worked with students from the Central District Alternative Program and the community cupboard and the Merrick and North Merrick school districts to assemble food and toy packages.The holiday packages included turkeys that the club was able to purchase with donations from the community and from the Kiwanis Club. Kiwanians delivered these packages shortly before Christmas.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

The Merrick Kiwanis Club teamed up with the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for its annual food and toy drive. Non-perishable food items were collected over two weekends at Foodtown and Stop and Shop in Merrick. Kiwanis International is a global organization dedicated to serving the needs of children and communities. A Kiwanis Club is a local chapter or unit of Kiwanis International, and its members are typically volunteers. Program Chair Dave Denenberg coordinated with the Central District Alternative Program Director Eric Arlin to bring the food to the community cupboard at the Administrative Building. Toy

Photos courtesy Claudia Borecky

Dave Denenberg and Bellmore-Merrick Central District Alternative Program Director Eric Arlin, — Rachele Terranova both far right, at the food drive drop-off.

Denenberg, chair of Merrick Kiwanis Food Drive Committee, with Kiwanians Ed Bernstein and Nicole Venditti, collecting food for families in need in our community.

Denenberg with Kiwanian Barbie Rogonia and her daughter Jessie.

Attorney advertising

Protecting Your Future with Michael and Suzanne Ettinger Attorneys-at-Law

Keeping The Lights On Learn to control stress and let the lights shine. 5. Engage. Like muscles your brain needs exercise. Too often people, after retirement, retire their brains also so they atrophy. Stay engaged, exercise your brain with reading, puzzles and other challenges to keep the lights going on strong. 6. Love. When people grow isolated their brains lack stimulation and they grow dull. Stay connected with family and friends to brighten the lights. 7. Adventure. Many older people lose their zest for new adventures. You don’t need to climb Everest just break out of dull routines. Any venture out to new places turns up the lights. 8. Purpose. People can lose interest in life after they have retired, feeling they have no purpose. Look for opportunities to volunteer. Helping others keeps the lights flaming.

trustlaw.com Trusts & Estates • Wills & Probate • Medicaid

Inspirational Scrapbooking Monday, January 29 7:00pm-8:00pm Create an inspirational quote scrapbooking page with lots of stickers and papers. Projects will be donated to a nursing home. Registration is open.

Visit us at trustlaw.com to learn more or search Ettinger Law on YouTube for our elder law estate planning videos

FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com

100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington • Melville • Islandia

www.bellmorelibrary.org 516-785-2990 ask@bellmorelibrary.org

1243408

ETTINGER LAW FIRM ELDER LAW ESTATE PLANNING SINCE 1991

1244067

Adapted from author Doug Armey, the following are keys to keeping your brain “lit” as you age. 1. Flow. A sedentary life causes brain deterioration. Blood flow to the brain keeps oxygen in your brain cells which gives them life.Keep moving, walking and get some exercise. 2. Energize. Junk food clogs your arteries and lowers energy, causing a sedentary lifestyle. Healthy food gives energy to your body and brain. Refuel and brighten the lights. 3. Recharge. Lack of enough sleep causes deterioration of the brain. Your brain needs downtime to recharge. Give it enough recharging and keep the lights burning bright. 4. Relax. Constant high stress has damaging effects on the brain and can lead to destructive habits which add further damage.

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

HERALD SPORTS Mepham falls to East Meadow by TonY belliSSimo tbellissimo@liherald.com

dominic obukwelu V.S. North Senior Basketball A TWO=TIME All-County selection and one of the Herald’s featured players in its 2023-24 preview section, Obukwelu continues to compete at a high level. The versatile forward who can do damage from the perimeter (22 threepointers) and drive to the rim averaged more than 20 points over the Spartans’ first 11 games including a season-high 28 against Valley Stream South Dec. 16. He’s also averaging 7.5 rebounds.

GAMES TO WATCH Thursday, Jan. 11 Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Syosset .................... 5 p.m. Wrestling: V.S. South at Lawrence ............................. 5 p.m. Gymnastics: Hicksville at Long Beach ....................... 6 p.m. Gymnastics: Garden City at Hewlett .....................6:30 p.m. Gymnastics: Lynbrook at Wantagh ............................ 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Uniondale at Freeport..................... 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 12 Girls Basketball: Garden City at Sewanhaka ........4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Elmont.......................... 5 p.m. Wrestling: North Shore at Seaford............................. 6 p.m. Boys Basketball: V.S. Central at Long Beach ............. 7 p.m. Boys Basketball: MacArthur at Mepham ................... 7 p.m. Boys Basketball: Kennedy at South Side .................. 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Seaford at Clarke............................ 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: South Side at Kennedy................... 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 13 Wrestling: Uniondale Tournament.............................. 9 a.m. Wrestling: MacArthur Tournament ............................. 9 a.m. Wrestling: Freeport Tournament................................. 9 a.m. Wrestling: V.S. Central Tournament ............................ 9 a.m. Boys Basketball: Wantagh at Lynbrook ...................12 p.m. Boys Basketball: East Rockaway at West Hemp. .....12 p.m. Girls Basketball: Lynbrook at Wantagh ....................12 p.m. Boys Basketball: Friends Academy at Lawrence......12 p.m. Girls Basketball: West Hemp. at East Rockaway......12 p.m.

nominate a ‘Spotlight Athlete’ High School student-athletes nominated for consideration to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an All-Conference award or better last season. Please send the following information for consideration: Name, School, Grade, Sport(s), accomplishments and a head shot to Sports@liherald. com.

The Nassau County basketball playoffs are still about a month away, but the East Meadow girls will assuredly be there and their chances of making a serious run has increased enormously with Baldwin no longer in the same classification. The Jets returned all of their major contributors from last season’s 16-win squad, led by All-County junior guard Allie Twible and All-Conference senior wings Brooke Vislocky and Charlotte Viola. “We practice hard and have so many components,” Twible said after pouring in a game-high 27 points and pulling down 10 rebounds last Saturday as East Meadow handed Mepham its first Conference AA-1 defeat, 57-48. “We have great chemistry and a lot of confidence,” she added. “We have attainable goals and we feel we can contend for a championship.” Viola added 14 points and senior Keziah Phillip had 13 boards as the Jets improved to 7-4 overall and won their fourth conference game in five tries. The Pirates (6-5 overall, 4-1 in AA-1), playing for just the second time all season with head coach Jim Mulvey’s desired lineup, got 16 points and 14 rebounds from junior Makayla Daube, and a combined 17 points from senior Brianna Frier (9) and junior Grace Skulavik. “This is a huge win,” East Meadow head coach Peter Olenik said. “We’re playing a whole new group of opponents and we’ve never been in this gym before. It’s a tough place to play and we were able to come out strong and set the tone.” Twible hit a three-pointer on the Jets’ first trip downcourt and forced Mepham to chase the scoreboard throughout the afternoon. The Jets led 16-10 after the first quarter and responded each of the four times thereafter the Pirates made it a onepossession game. “This is only the second game we’ve had everyone healthy and I think we can start building moving forward,” Mulvey said. “We played well in spurts today. We didn’t get back on defense quick enough at times and we need to do a better job anticipating what teams are trying to do against us.” Viola had 11 first-half points and Twible added 10 as East Meadow held a 30-24 lead at the break. The Jets went 9-for-10 from the line in the opening half and finished 21 of 26 (81 percent) as Twible went 9 of 10 in the final three minutes alone. Skulavik scored all of her points in the second quarter to keep the Pirates within striking distance and answered some hot outside shooting off the bench from East Meadow freshman Angelina Cronin. A Daube free throw and a putback by junior Sophia Beck brought Mepham within 32-29 early in the third quarter

Media Origin Inc./Herald

Junior Makayla Daube posted a double-double (16 points, 14 rebounds) last Saturday but Mepham suffered it first conference loss in five games. before the Jets scored eight straight to regain command. East Meadow hosts the rematch Feb. 2 but will first try to avenge their only conference defeat to first-place MacArthur Jan. 27 at noon.

“We have a lot of pieces and our three captains, Allie, Brooke and Charlotte, do an excellent job of keeping everyone on the same page.” Olenik said. “The girls know effort is non-negotiable and they come ready to work every day.”

S t at e S e n . S t eve Rhoads’ office will host a scam prevention seminar on Jan. 18 at the Levittown Public Library. This event is open to everyone within the senate district. Rhoads will be joined by partners in gover nment, including State Assemblymen John M i k u l i n a n d D ave McDonough, as well as Nassau County Legislators John Ferretti and Tom McKevitt. Experts from the Nassau County Office of Crime Victim Advocate, Family Children’s Association and Nassau County Police Department will be present to share what residents need to be aware of, how to identify scams and how to report one. Reserve a seat a head of time by calling Rhoads’ office at (516) 882-0630. — Jordan Vallone

News brief ‘Bear Witness’ set for Merrick Clubhouse The South Merrick Community Civic Association will host “Bear Witness,” a discussion about the Oct. 7 attack on Israel with David Sussman. Sussman is an Israel Defense Forces veteran who served during the 2nd Lebanon War. He is currently running solidarity trips to Israel to support troops and

help communities in need. The discussion will take place on Jan. 17 at 7 p.m., at the Merrick Golf Course Clubhouse. For more, contact Berta Weinstein at (516) 578-0649, visit SouthMerrickCivic.org and DavidSussmanIsraelTours. com. — Jordan Vallone

Courtesy Metro

State Sen. Steve Rhoads’ is working with partners in government to bring a scam prevention seminar to the Levittown Public Library on Jan. 18.

Courtesy Berta Weinstein

The South Merrick Community Civic Association will host ‘Bear Witness,’ next week, a discussion about the conflict in Israel with David Sussman.

N. F. Walker, Inc. Merrick Funeral Home

2039 Merrick Ave Merrick, NEW YORK 11566-3434 (516)-378-0303 nfwalkerfh.com

Family Owned and Operated - Gratefully Serving Our Local Communities In All Capacities

JOSEPH E. CAMOLLI, MANAGER THADDEUS W. BAXTER

Affilliated with Fox Funeral Home, Inc. Forest Hills, NY www.foxfuneralhome.com

DANFORD S. BAXTER WAYNE C. BAXTER (1944-2022) 1242975

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

Scam prevention seminar is coming to the area

New tax assessor aims to be accessible rate, transparent, assessment office,” Adamo said. “Maybe under the previous administration it wasn’t that, but now I feel like the problems have been fixed, As the new acting tax assessor for Nassau County, and now we’re going forward.” And there have been a few errors. Democrats in the Joseph Adamo wants his department to be accurate and transparent when it comes to establishing how county legislature revealed in 2022 that nearly 850 much tax properties inside the county will pay each property owners were overcharged for school taxes. And then last March, county officials disyear. covered it had failed to apply $139 million For some 25 years, Adamo has worked in assessed valuation on nearly 625 homes, on the other side of the field, representing which left affected homeowners with little clients wanting to challenge how governtime to challenge the assessments. ments assessed the value of their properFinding a permanent county assessor ties, with the hope of reducing tax bills. has been challenging since the departure This, he says, gives him an understanding of David Moog — appointed by then-counof how assessments work, where property ty executive Laura Curran — in 2021. Matvalues should be, and the importance of thew Cronin moved into the role soon getting to know the people behind the after, but stepped down last summer. deeds. JoSEpH AdAmo Since then, the County Executive Bruce “The one thing that I want to get across acting tax assessor, Blakeman searched nationwide for a sucto everyone in Nassau County is that I’m cessor, realizing he did not need to look far, going to be the most resident-friendly Nassau County finding Adamo in his own backyard. And assessor out of them all,” Adamo told the Blakeman has made his expectations of Herald. “I’m here to do a job, and I’m going Adamo clear, telling the Herald in a statement his new to do it well.” The role of the assessment department is, among acting assessor will make the department “the most other things, to determine the taxable value of all resi- fair, accurate, transparent and resident-friendly dential and commercial properties in Nassau County. department in the nation.” Adamo will serve in an acting capacity for the next That includes collecting property information, maintaining property records and tax maps, and answering six months. By summer, Blakeman is expected to decide if his role becomes permanent. questions from the community. In the meantime, Adamo, wants to get more of his Although he’s spent the past decade working in Manhattan, according to his online resume, Adamo is staff on the phones to make sure assessments are corno stranger to Nassau, growing up in Levittown. Nas- rect. He believes in talking to people and putting himsau is a county he loves, Adamo says, and hopes to self out there. “I just look forward to the challenge ahead,” Adamo turn the assessment office into one people can rely on. “I want every owner of property to have a fair, accu- said.

By CHARLES SHAW

cshaw@liherald.com

’m here to do a job, and I’m going to do it well.

NOW LEASING

Courtesy Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman

Joseph Adamo, the new acting assessor for Nassau County, brings with him 25 years of experience assessing property for tax value. He replaces Matthew Cronin, who left his interim position last year.

LO N G B E AC H , N Y

LUXURY A PA RT M ENTS. B EAC H FRO NT B EAUT Y. You’ve earned the right to travel a path that others don’t. And right now, it leads to The Breeze. Far more than a place to live, it’s permission to lead your best life.

The Breeze offers more than a dozen apartment floor plans - be the first to pick your unit!

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Reserve now. Contact us today. 180 Boardwalk, Long Beach, NY 11561 516.908.7733 | breezelongbeach.com

1240895

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

HOST

MICHAEL HINMAN EXECUTIVE EDITOR HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Present ORTHOPEDIC INNOVATION:

DR. GILES SCUDERI VICE PRESIDENT OF THE ORTHOPEDIC SERVICE LINE AT NORTHWELL HEALTH SPECIALIZES IN PRIMARY AND REVISION TOTAL KNEE

PANELIST

DR. JAMES GERMANO CHAIR OF ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY AT NORTHWELL HEALTH LIJ VALLEY STREAM HOSPITAL SPECIALIZES IN HIP AND KNEE REPLACEMENT AND REVISION HIP AND KNEE REPLACEMENT

Please join LIJVS orthopedic leadership to learn about their surgical experience and answer any questions the audience may have. THURSDAY JANUARY 18, 2024 FROM 6 PM-7 PM

PANELIST

DR. ALFRED FAUST CHIEF OF SPINE SURGERY AT NORTHWELL HEALTH LIJ VALLEY STREAM HOSPITAL SPECIALIZES IN ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SURGERY AND CERVICAL DISC ARTHROPLASTY

SCAN TO REGISTER

1243698

PANELIST

Northwell Health LIJ Valley Stream is the first hospital in the U.S. to receive all five orthopedic specialty certifications available from the Joint Commission.

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Nature runs wild at the park, and on top of the summit, there’s a large pond with dozens of types of birds.

Taking a wintertime stroll at Levy Park Town of Hempstead residents will tell you that there’s no place like the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve. Hidden behind the Town of Hempstead’s sanitation facilities off of Merrick Road, the preserve is the epitome of a bustling nature preserve. Beautiful year round, the park offers a natural escape during the cold, winter months. Its 155-foot summit is the highest on Long Island’s South Shore, and offers hikers, runners and walkers panoramic views of Long Island’s beaches, the Meadowbrook Parkway, and New York City skyline. The park, which was once a landfill, offers residents 3-miles worth of trails, a kayak launch, fishing piers and more. Named after a longtime environmental advocate State Sen. Normal J. Levy, the park has been open and maintained by

the Town of Hempstead since 2000, and is a sanctuary for native plants and wildlife, all of which can been seen swarming the park on a daily basis. A self sustaining natural fortress, the park’s most unique residents are a herd of Nigerian dwarf goats. Kept in a pen at the park’s entrance during the day, the goats are released at night and the town uses them an environmentally friendly way to control weeds and brush overgrowth. According to Hempstead Town’s website, the goats are the park’s “pets-workers-employees” that compliment the mission of the nature preserve. The park is open in January and February, daily and weather-permitting, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more, visit HempsteadNY.gov/facilities. — Jordan Vallone

The Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve is the epitome of a nature preserve. Maintained by the Town of Hempstead, the once-landfill turned park is open year round to residents of the town and beyond.

It boasts a 155-foot summit, offering hikers, walkers and runners views of Long Island’s beaches, the Meadowbrook Parkway, and New York City skyline. The park has 3-miles worth of trails, a fishing pier and kayak launch.

Guests are welcomed into the preserve by the park’s most unique residents, a herd of Nigerian dwarf goats.

It’s not often that you’ll stumble upon a sundial, but at Levy Park, there’s one on top of the park’s hill.

Buy 1, Gift 1 FREE!

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

Renew or subscribe today and get a

FREE Gift Subscription

to give to a friend, family member or neighbor!

BEST DEAL

Four quarterly credit card payments of only

$9.75

*Outside Nassau County $15 per quarter

One-Time Payment

$50† per year

†Outside Nassau County $60.

One time payment by check or credit card is $50. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Gift subscription valid for one year and must be within Nassau County. Offer valid until 1/31/24.

Order online at

www.liherald.com/subscribe or call 516-569-4000 press 7 use promo code: CHEER23

Support Local News

Stay connected with the community and support local journalism.

1239201

Please consider supporting this local newspaper by making a donation. An invaluable investment in one of your community’s most trusted institutions. www.liherald.com/local

Long Island fate attracts county execs, governor By RACHELE TERRANOVA rterranova@liherald.com

There are just a few events that are a must when it comes to Long Island, and everyone who is anyone finds themselves at the State of the Region breakfast hosted by the Long Island Association. It’s become an annual tradition for leaders across the island — and state — but took a different approach this year with a round table featuring Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, and former congressman — and current Herald columnist — Peter King at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury last week. In the discussion moderated by LIA president and chief executive Matt Cohen, the two county executives shared their top priorities for the upcoming year. Blakeman made clear his plans to continue campaigning for public safety, having added 70 new officers to the Nassau County Police Department in just the last year. Blakeman also plans to keep the $5 billion Las Vegas Sands redevelopment project and casino at the Nassau Coliseum alive and well. Economic development is his top priority, Blakeman said, emphasizing Long Island continues facing funding issues at the state level.

Courtesy Craig M. Cooper Productions

The new year brought local and state electeds together at the Long Island Association State of the Region breakfast, where Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine joined former U.S. Rep. Peter King in a discussion moderated by LIA president and chief executive Matt Cohen. “The state should realize that Long Island is the goose that lays the golden egg.” Blakeman said. But it is all about making the most of what you do get, said Romaine, who just started his new role as county executive Suffolk last week. And guaranteeing you get everything you’re supposed to. “Let’s make sure we get our fair share of federal and state aid,” he said. “We get short-changed. We shouldn’t be short-changed. We are a tremendous

ERALD HHERALD

economic engine for this state. We need to get full funding.” King emphasized his staunch support of Israel after the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, while also continuing his backing of Ukraine against the 2022 Russian invasion. And, sticking to topics that have helped Republicans across the board in recent years, King affirmed his stance against allowing what he describes as unvetted migrants entering the country. While a lot of Long Island’s leader-

ship now represents the GOP, there were Democrats, too. Like U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and Gov. Kathy Hochul. Schumer has just finished his 25th year visiting each of New York’s 62 counties, reflecting on past accomplishments — especially those of a bipartisan nature. Like those with King, who worked with Schumer quite a bit over the three decades they served together. From advocating universal gun background check legislation to supporting first responders of the 9/11 attacks with better health care. For Schumer, however, moving forward in 2024 consists of supporting offshore wind and renewable energy, as well as getting full Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursement for hospitals throughout the island. Hochul declared Long Island the epicenter of offshore wind, as it has the possibility to create tens of thousands of jobs. “I’m with Long Island,” the governor said, “because New York cares about Long Island immensely.” And that includes whether their colors are red or blue. “I know how to work across the aisle,” Hochul said. “It’s in my DNA. And I cherish the ability and the privilege to represent all walks of life in every corner of the state.”

VOTE NOW!

SUPPORT YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES IN THE OFFICIAL COMMUNITY’S CHOICE AWARDS Presented by

lichoiceawards.com

2022 2023

The program polls the local community to select the best businesses and organizations in the area. Learn more about the program and participate by visiting the website below.

VOTING PERIOD: JAN 4 - FEB 4

VISIT LICHOICEAWARDS.COM TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!

YOU COULD WIN $500!

OFFICIAL RULES: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER. To vote and be eligible for the $500 prize, at least 25 categories must be filled in. $500 prize is a Gift Card. For complete official rules go to: LICHOICEAWARDS.com.

1243721

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

STEPPING OUT

Courtesy Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live

Demo Derby — driven by Taylor Holman — and other popular trucks, including Tiger Shark, will thrill fans with exciting car-crunching feats as they fly more than 35 feet in the air. 5-Alarm, the newest vehicle, is primed to be a star in the show. Plus, the fiery Arctigon thunders into the arena ready to chomp.

Hot Wheels havoc

Monster trucks roar to life in spectacular style

Saturday, Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. $49.50, $39.50, $34.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

By Danielle Schwab Those iconic Hot Wheels toys take to the tracks when the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow party lights up Nassau Coliseum. Once again, fans of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life when the action returns to Long Island, Jan. 20-21. The spectacle will involve families in monster mayhem, with a laser light show, dance parties, theatrical effects, toy giveaways — with the spotlight on exciting monster truck and motorcycle stunts. It’s truly a family affair, starting on the track. The Holman family — Bobby, his son, Cody, and Cody’s wife, Taylor — all will be behind the wheel when the tour arrives here. They’re among the drivers who adeptly handle these 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound machines that bring audiences to their feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles. Who better to be involved in a show geared to families than a family of monster truck drivers? “It’s really cool for us,” says International Monster Truck Hall-of-Famer Bobby Holman. “A lot of people say they can’t work with family. But for us, it’s a really good deal and keeps us together. We expect more out of each other.” The elder Holman pilots Tiger Shark, a monster truck that, as he tells it, combines the best parts of both tiger and shark, making it a standout favorite for the kids. On top of driving Tiger Shark, he also had a direct hand in creating the epic ride. “We put it all together, and Cody painted it,” he says. “It literally looks like a shark sitting there, painted like a tiger.” As with the other drivers on the circuit, monster trucks are Holman’s passion. The owner of a monster truck repair shop in Dayton, Ohio — Team Beast OffRoad _ he’s been involved in the monster truck world for more than 40 years. He and his son work on many of the trucks that appear in the show, including painting and vinyl wrapping. “I grew up around monster trucks. From the time I was old enough to walk, I knew I wanted to be a driver,” Cody says. “When I was 17, I started doing shows with my dad.” This year, he’s thrilled to be driving the newest edition to the monster truck lineup, Hot Wheels 5-Alarm, known as the ﬁre truck hero. Father and son are joined by Cody’s wife Taylor, who drives Demo Derby. When she’s not taking risks on the track and in air, she’s devoted to caring for others on the frontline of health care as an ER nurse at a children’s hospital in Ohio. “Fans get to bring their family to the show,” Cody says, “and I get to bring mine.” Friendly competition among the drivers quickly gets fans revved up. The non-stop action includes a wheelie competition, donuts, long jumps, freestyle, and even motocross. And if that is not enough, there’ll be a special appearance by the car-eating, ﬁre-breathing transforming robot Arctigon. Cody — last year’s winner — is eager for a repeat. Fans will just have

The multi-faceted Pete Correale brings his ‘Authentic’ tour to the Paramount stage. You may know him from his numerous late-night appearances on the ‘The Tonight Show,’ Letterman and Conan, his three TV comedy specials, or as co-host of ‘The Pete and Sebastian Show,’ his podcast with longtime friend Sebastian Maniscalco — with an ever-growing fan base. Correale’s tours also continue to grow exponentially as more and more people discover him and fall for his accessible and extremely relatable point of view. His love for entertainment started when he went off to college. With a conversational delivery and his trademark disarming ‘regular guy’ attitude, he makes you feel like you’re listening to the funniest guy at a party as opposed to just another comedian on a stage.

to wait and see. “Hot Wheels is all about the kids,” Bobby says. “We even put in precautions because the trucks are • Saturday and Sunday, typically very loud with Jan. 20-21; times vary these motors, so we put • Tickets start at $52.50, $90.75 mufflers on them. A lot of VIP, plus $24.20 Crash Zone (prices are subject to change); these kids have never seen available at Ticketmaster.com and monster trucks up close, HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive.com so we don’t want to make • Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale them afraid of the trucks. Every part of the show is geared toward them.” From back flips on motorcycles to the aforementioned transforming robot, the show has it all. And in showstopping monster truck fashion, it all happens in the dark. “The show was phenomenal without the lasers, but now it’s just incredible,” Bobby adds. “If you’ve never seen the show, you need to because it’s spectacular.” Everyone is encouraged to arrive early to experience the popular pre-show exclusive, Crash Zone. Fans can obtain access to the arena floor at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Saturday, and noon on Sunday, when they can see trucks up-close and meet the drivers, get autographs, take photos, and check out some toy versions of the big trucks. Fans also can purchase a VIP experience that includes souvenirs and a special backstage tour. And of course, there will be Hot Wheels toys for sale including exclusive Hot Wheels trucks and merchandise. Bobby Holman still remembers when Cody played with Hot Wheels as a kid. Now it’s come full circle. As Bobby puts it: “We bring toys to life. These kids see these little bitty trucks, and when they come into the arena, their eyes get wide and their smiles get big ‘cause now they are seeing a real monster truck.”

Ikigai Sands Point Preserve’s Four Seasons in Music series welcomes the new year with its ﬁrst concert of 2024, at the stately Hempstead House. The Preserve’s historic mansions and grounds are the backdrop for this unique chamber music series, created by the series’ artistic director Kathryn Lockwood. The winter edition celebrates the Japanese ‘ikigai,’ a reason for living. The ensemble duoJalal — featuring Lockwood on viola and percussionist Yousif Sheronick — is joined by Japanese Koto player Yumi Kurosawa, violinists Ilmar Gavilan and Doori Na and cellist Raman Ramakrishnan. They’’ll dive into the traditional and non-traditional Japananese sounds. Inspired by their namesake, 13th century poet Jalal a din Rumi — whose words brought together people of different religions, cultures and races — duoJalal offers a stimulating inter-cultural experience. Sunday, Jan. 14, 3 p.m. $50, $40 members. Sands Point Preserve. 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point. Tickets available at SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org, or call (516) 571-7901.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

Pete Correale

Your Neighborhood

THE Jan.

Tom Papa

The multi-faceted Tom Papa brings his “Good Stuff” tour to the Paramount stage, Saturday, Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. With more than 20 years on the stand-up circuit, Papa is one of the top comedic voices in the country. In addition to his mastery of the stage, he’s found success in a variety of creative pursuits including as an actor and host in film and television, contributing writer for The New Yorker, author of three books, and popular podcast and radio host. He’s also a sought-after panelist (and occasional guest host) for NPR’s comedy news quiz Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me. Papa has five highly rated stand-up specials to his credit including his most recent Netflix special, What A Day!, filmed at the iconic Wilbur Theatre in Boston. This past June, Papa released his anticipated third book “We’re All In This Together…So Make Some Room.” It’s a compilation of comedic essays that aim to unite us through our stupidity. His highly-rated podcast, Breaking Bread with Tom Papa, features Papa and his guest eating, drinking, and engaging in revealing and funny conversations. When he’s not on the road, Papa lives in Los Angeles with his family where he spends most of his time writing and baking bread. $59.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Art talk

On exhibit

Join Franklin Hill Perrell, curator of Nassau County Museum of Art’s “Our Gilded Age,” for his talk “Art and Decorative Art Styles of the Gilded Age,” Sunday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. He’ll discuss a selection of works on view through the lens of the era’s changing styles and art movements including, grand tradition portraiture (in the spirit of Sir Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough) French Salon style, Impressionism, Realism/Social Realism, Romanticism; and in the decorative arts, and Renaissance Revival Style vs. Art Nouveau. Artists examined include John Singer Sargent, William Merritt Chase, Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt and Louis Comfort Tiffany. Limited seating; advance registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Our Gilded Age,” examines the appearances and the realities of an era that mirrors our own in many ways. Like the nation’s economy, American art and literature flourished during the Gilded Age. The art of John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Louis Comfort Tiffany and others adorned palatial residences designed by Stanford White and Ogden Codman Jr., architect of the museum’s own quintessential Gilded Age mansion. Drawing heavily upon the local literary history of Long Island, including William Cullen Bryant, Mark Twain (who named the Gilded Age), Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton and others, the exhibition will include paintings, fashion, decorative arts including period silver and china, photographs, manuscripts, first editions and other historic memorabilia. The “Upstairs, Downstairs” approach to the life of a country house brings to life not only the storied conspicuous consumption for which the Gilded Age was infamous, but also the real lives of these many individuals who maintained the palatial estates where that lifestyle was enjoyed. On view through March 10. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Chip in at Mulchfest It’s time to bid farewell to those Christmas trees and the Town of Hempstead is ready to help. Residents can dispose of their Christmas trees at Mulchfest, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 13-14, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at Baldwin Park. Receive a bag of mulch in return. Also dispose of cardboard boxes accumulated during the holiday season. “Chip in” to help the environment — and safely dispose of those holiday trees. 3232 Grand Ave., Baldwin.

A Taste of Thailand

Siam Emerald, Rockville Centre's new Thai Hot Spot, harmonizes traditional and innovative ﬂavors, offering a delightful journey through ancient recipes reimagined for contemporary palates.

GRAND OPENING SPECIAL! ENJOY

10% OFF YOUR ENTIRE DINE IN CHECK With coupon only. Expiration 1/31/24

TELECHARGE.COM OR 212-239-6200

www.siamemerald.com 88A N. Village Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

(516) 678-0886

1243384

SCAN FOR TICKETS

iLuminate.com

340 W. 50th St.

1238392

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

‘Parallel Perspectives’ View Molloy University Art Gallery’s current exhibition, a duo exhibit displaying artwork of noted Long Island artists Holly Gordon and Ward Hooper. Various complementary paintings and prints are on view. Upon meeting, it became obvious that both Gordon and Hooper were deeply inspired by Long Island’s fascinating environment and natural beauty. Together, they toured the island and captured the same places, each interpreting the scenes in front of them through their distinctive artistic styles. Their creations not only influence one another but also blend unique aesthetics in their collaborative artistic journey. Gordon and Hooper’s partnership yielded numerous accomplishments, one of which was the publication of their book “Parallel Perspectives: The Brush/Lens Collaboration.” Through Feb. 16. Kellenberg Gallery, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Call (516) 323-3196 or email artgallery@molloy.edu for more.

Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr., Monday, Jan. 15, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from the Civil Rights Movement and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” For ages 5 and up. $4 with admission, $3 members. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

St. Demetrius Church Train Show HOTrack, a Long Island based group of model railroaders, hosts a train show, Saturday Jan. 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at St. Demetrious Church. 2421 Hewlett Ave., Merrick. Visit Hotrack.org/events for more.

All members welcome, bring anyone additional interested in joining the Chamber, Wednesday, Jan. 17, 7-9:30 p.m., at Vamps Club North Bellmore Fire Dept. No fee for members, dinner optional. $10 per person. VisitBellmoreChamber. com for more info or contact Chamber Office at (516) 679-1875 or info@ BellmoreChamber.com.

ACT Review Workshop Students can prepare for the new ACT in two sessions at Merrick Library, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2-4:30 p.m. Calculator required. With a practice test in the first session with tips and strategies for further study in the second. Registration required. 2279 Merrick Ave. Register at MerrickLibrary.org or call (516) 377 6112.

Breastfeeding Support Group Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.

Merrick Chamber of Commerce 89th Installation Dinner Attend the Chamber’s Installation Dinner, Thursday Jan. 25, 6:3010 p.m., at Mio Posto, honoring Merrick’s Man & Woman of the Year as well as Merrick’s Merchant & Professional of the Year. $95/person or $950/10 person table. 16 Merrick Ave, Merrick. Contact Christine Mooney at info@merrickchamber.org for more information. Register at Register at MerrickChamberny. chambermaster.com/ eventregistration/register/639.

Bellmore-Merrick STEAM Expo Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District hosts the inaugural STEAM Expo, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 5:30 p.m., at Merrick Avenue Middle School. The Expo gives sixth-graders in elementary schools in Bellmore, North Bellmore, Merrick and North Merrick elementary schools exposure to STEAM activities that await them when they entered the central district in either Merrick Avenue or Grand Avenue Middle Schools. Contact Danielle Caliendo at (516) 992-1342 or Rob Soel at (516) 992-1444 for more information.

Bingo at Ohav Shalom Congregation Ohav Shalom hosts Bingo games every other Sunday. All are welcome. 145 S. Merrick Ave., Merrick. Visit Ohav. org/bingo for upcoming dates. For more information, contact (866) 222-1920.

Having an event?

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

Friend

MORE UNBUBBLIEVABLE THAN EVER!

• Get local news • Share your content • Comment on stories Follow the

____________ BELLMORE ____________

“ IT WILL BLOW YOUR-OPMRAHIND!”

1238370

page today!

GET TICKETS

Scan this QR code to visit the Bellmore Herald’s Page

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores meeting

000000

Jan.

Let Freedom Ring with MLK

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

At dealership, importance of organ donors stressed Matt Carlson of Rallye BMW receives gift of life from daughter lation in New York is signed up to be an organ donor — we have a long way to go. The goal here, with (Donate Life), is to At a Westbury car dealership last ensure a life changing transplant for week, Matt Carlson, Rallye BMW’s gen- every New Yorker in need.” Aisha Tator, the executive director of eral manager, was able to tell his friends and colleagues that he’d be receiving the Donate Life New York State, said a realigift of life — a new kidney — from his ty that many may not realize is that you daughter, Stephanie Trotti. And while may never know when you, or someone he’s abundantly fortunate, many people you love, needs an organ. “There’s hundreds of difin New York that need an ferent ways that you can organ aren’t as lucky. have organ failure,” Tator There’s nearly 8,000 peosaid, “some of them as simple in the state on a waiting ple as a virus. We just don’t list for a life-changing donaknow when we might need a tion, and while 3,300 resitransplant to save our life. dents received an organ We’re working together to donation last year, roughly raise awareness, to spread 400 people on the transplant this important message, that list die each year due to a New Yorkers need to enroll shortage of donors. In New i n t h e N ew Yo rk S t at e York, only 47 percent of the Donate Life registry.” population is signed up to be John Flanagan, chair of an organ donor through the AishA TATOR the board of directors at New York State Donate Life Executive director Donate Life New York State, Registry— the lowest per- Donate Life New York State and the senior vice presicentage in the country. dent of government affairs Rallye Motor Company, which has dealerships in Westbury, at Northwell Health, pulled out his drivRosyln and Glen Cove, partnered with er’s license, and showed the crowd the Donate Life New York State, a nonprofit small heart symbol on it, signifying that organization, to bring attention to Carl- he’s a registered organ donor. “You can save somebody else’s life,” son’s story, and raise awareness about the life-changing impact of organ, eye he said. “It’s very, very rare when someone has the opportunity to say that — and tissue donations. and we’re seeing it happen live, family Juliana Terian, president and chief executive officer of the Rallye Motor to family.” Carlson said he has polycystic kidney Company, said the New York State Auto Dealers Association, and car dealer- disease, a hereditary condition that his ships, play a huge role in assisting mother died from 8 years earlier. It’s a rare genetic disorder that causes fluidDonate Life. “Dealerships are vital to organ dona- filled cysts to grow in the kidneys and tion,” she said at a news conference on other organs, affecting their function Jan. 5. “We need so much to educate peo- and health. Children of those with the ple on the importance of being able to disorder have a 50 percent chance of donate. Forty-seven percent of the popu- inheriting the illness, and Carlson, and

By JORDAN VALLONE

jvallone@liherald.com

here’s hundreds of different ways that you can have organ failure.

Jordan Vallone/Herald photos

Matt Carlson, the general manager of Rallye BMW in Westbury, received a kidney from his daughter, Stephanie Trotti. Rallye Motor Company works closely with Donate Life New York State to raise awareness on the importance of becoming an organ donor. his four brothers, all have it. His kidney health began to significantly worsen over the last few years, and for the last six months, he’s been on dialysis — a blood purifying treatment given to someone when kidney function is not optimum. When it became clear that a kidney transplant would be the best course of action, he said both his son and daughter immediately got tested. “My daughter, Stephanie, came back as a perfect match,” he said. “I’ve been on dialysis the last six months — it’s not a good lifestyle. And I’m looking forward to Monday, to getting my daughter’s kidney, and having a piece of my daughter inside of me. I can’t even express the gratitude I have to my daughter, and also my son, for running — not walking — running to get tested. And I will dedicate the rest of my life to

working with great organizations like (Donate Life) to educate people on how important organ, tissue donation is.” He said it was hard for him to realize that some of the patients he’d received dialysis alongside may never get as lucky as him, which is why it’s crucial that more New Yorkers sign up to be organ donors. “It was a very hard and emotional day Wednesday, to walk out of that dialysis center, to say goodbye to them, because they don’t have a donor,” Carlson said. “I can live without my kidneys — we have an artificial machine called dialysis. But it’s not fun. I am just blessed.” Those who are not registered to donate an organ can do so through the Department of Motor Vehicles, or by visiting Donate Life’s website, DonateLifeNYS.org/register.

Public Notices

LBEL1 0111

LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the annual inspection for the 2024-2025 year for all school buildings of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for fire hazards which might endanger the lives of students, teachers and employees therein, has been completed and the report thereof is available at the District Administration Building, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, NY 11566-1500 on any business day between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M 144217 PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF PEOPLE`S FINANCIAL REALTY MORTGAGE SECURITIES TRUST, SERIES 2006-1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-1, V. JILL BRANDT, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated January 15, 2020, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF PEOPLE`S FINANCIAL REALTY MORTGAGE SECURITIES

TRUST, SERIES 2006-1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-1 is the Plaintiff and JILL BRANDT, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 30, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 2250 LEGION STREET, BELLMORE, NY 11710: Section 63, Block 200, Lot 164: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT BELLMORE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD,

COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 003765/2016. Ralph J. Madalena, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 143982

Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

Aisha Tator, the executive director of Donate Life New York State, said something as simple as a virus can cause someone to go into organ failure. Donate Life is a nonprofit organization that educates New Yorkers on how to become an organ donor.

Employment

CLASSIFIED

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

To pLACE your AD CALL 516-569-4000 - press 5

Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.

Help Wanted

Seeking Candidates For The Following Position:

EMPLOYMENT

TEACHER AIDE

DRIVERS WANTED

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 $33,280 + 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

Valley Stream UFSD 30 is currently accepting applications for Teacher Aides. Those interested will be required to comply with Nassau County Civil Service and New York State fingerprinting requirements.

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma

Interested candidates should email a letter of interest and resume to: humanresources@vs30.org

1243454

Proof of High School Diploma required.

NYS License Clean 3 Years $20 - $25/ Hour

Call 516-731-3000

www.liHERAlD.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. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave 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 mhinman@liherald.com

Be A Part Of A Growing Multi Media Company Based in Garden City

NOW HIRING:

SALES/MULTI MEDIA CONSULTANTS – INSIDE & OUTSIDE* FT/PT Salary Range $33,280 to $100,000 including Commissions & Bonuses REPORTER/EDITOR FT/PT (Salary Range $20,000 to $45,000)

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $23 per hour)

EXPERIENCED DOG WALKER: 5 Days/ Week. Star ting 7:30am. $20/ Walk. N. Merrick. Call 917-319-2202

MAILROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $17 per hour) PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT/PT (Salary Range $20 per hour to $30 per hour)

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 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS FT/PT (Salary Range $17 per hour to $21 per hour)

Email Your Resumes to or Call

516-569-4000

ext 200

*Outside Sales must have car

1234932

Careers@liherald.com

To Place Your Ad in the Herald Classifieds. Call 516-569-4000, press 5 to speak to an Account Executive.

OFFICE PERSON FT: Mon-Fri. Input Orders, Computer Skills. Wholesaler. Warehouse Setting. Island Par k. Star ting $18/Hour. Email Resume: appcoem@gmail.com 516-608-9200 Eric

Homes

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Vacation Sales

REAL ESTATE

Apartments For Rent

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 $33,280 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

Start A New Career For The Holiday And New Year Seeking Individuals With Good Phone Skills For Real Estate And Mortgage Financing Office Full Time Or Part Time

Call Ben 718-266-9700 Or 347-866-5619

Childcare Offered KING'S KIDS DAYCARE - We Provide Loving And Fun Educational Environment For 6 Weeks To 12 Year Olds. Please Call 516-538-0643.

Check out our Service Directory for all your repair, decorating, party planning, cleaning or moving needs, and much more!

1243304

8 AM to 3 PM / 5 Days A Week / District Wide Starting Salary $20,172 EFFECTIVE DATE IMMEDIATELY

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

HERALD

1239662

VALLEY STREAM UFSD 30

Open Houses HEWLETT: 1267 Peninsula Blvd, Open House By Appt, NEW! 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, L I R R , Tr a n s & H o u s e s o f W o r ship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299 HEWLETT BAY PARK: BA 190 Meadowview Ave, , Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!.REDUCED!!.$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299 EAST ROCKAWAY 1/14, 12-1:30, 1 Newkirk Ave, Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR,2.5 Bth SH Col on Beautiful St. in SD#20(Lynbrook). New Quartz/Wood EIK w/ St Steel Appl, LR/Fpl,DR,Den & New Powder Rm. Spectacular Primary Ste with Hi Ceiling/Rad Htd Bth/2 WICs. Fin Bsmt w/Playrm & Office.Newly Lanscaped Yard w/Pavered Patio/Stone Fire Pit. Att Gar/2 Car Drvwy. Must See!...$936,000 R o n n i e G e r b e r, D o u g l a s E l l i m a n 516-238-429

Houses For Rent HEWLET BA 1554 Moffitt Ave, OPEN , WHOLE HOUSE RENTAL! Updtd 4 BR Col w/ 2 New Bths. LR/Fpl,FDR, Den & Kit. Main Flr BR/Off. Newer W/D, Ductless AC Units, Gas Ht. 2 Car Det Gar. Enclosed Yard. SD#14(Hewlett-Wood). Great Location Near Schools, Park, LIRR & Houses of Worship...$4500 per month Ronnie Gerber. Douglas Elliman 516-238-429hewlett

CEDARHURST NO FEE Pr ivate Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For O n e B e d r o o m W h e n Ava i l a bl e. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978 LYNBROOK: 3 BR, 1 Bath, First Floor, Private Entrance, 2 Parking Spots, No Smoking/ Pets. Includes Cable/ Wi-Fi, $3,500. 347-909-2153

Cemetery Plots BETH DAVID CEMETERY: Elmont, NY. 3 Plots. Separate Or All Together. Graves 18, 25, and 32. Purchase Separate $5000; Purchase Together $14000. Negotiable. Call 845-641-7316

Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-569-4000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

HERALD

My building’s in need of a tenant

Homes

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

HOME Of tHE WEEK

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Q. .I have a building that has been unoccupied for three years. I bought it because it was going to have a long-term tenant. They backed out, so I need to get the building rented. I have a prospect who wants me to get the permits for their animal grooming service operation, with possible overnight boarding. They’re only interested if the permits are ready to go. What is the minimum I can do to get the permit and get the tenant into the building to rent? The building is 8,000 square feet, and the tenant only needs about 5,000. Do I need more permits for another tenant, and can I get them both together to save money? I need to do this quickly, or the tenant will go elsewhere. What can be done?

Rockville Centre

Your Dream Home Awaits

elcome to this renovated 4 bedroom and 3 full bath Colonial situated on .34 acre lot with detached 2 car garage loft and a long private multi vehicle driveway This spacious home has 3 levels plus a basement. There is a bright enclosed front porch. Formal dining room with a sitting area, big EIK, quartz countertops and SS appliances, large living room, 2nd full bath, a huge den with vaulted ceilings plus sliders to a private deck overlooking your backyard oasis.1st floor has a master en-suite with full bath. Possible M/D with proper permits. On the 2nd floor you will find 3 to 4 bedrooms and a full bathroom. The 3rd level has a large finished attic. Close to everything. Award winning Rockville Centre school district! RVC has its own cost effective electric and water company and more. Call for a private showing! Asking $889,999

Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299

Results that Move You

OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 1/14/24 EaST ROCKaWay

1 Newkirk Ave, 12-1:30, FIRST SHOW! Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2.5 Bth SH Col on Beautiful St. in SD#20 (Lynbrook). New Quartz/Wood EIK w/ St Steel Appl, LR/Fpl, DR, Den & New Powder Rm. Spectacular Primary Ste with Hi Ceiling/Rad Htd Bth/2 WICs. Fin Bsmt w/Playrm & Office. Newly Lanscaped Yard w/Pavered Patio/ Stone Fire Pit. Att Gar/2 Car Drvwy. Must See! .................................................$936,000 45 Judith Ct, 2-3:30, Immaculate & Well Maintained 3300 Sq Ft, 6 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch on Beautiful Quiet St in SD#20 (Waverly Pk Elem). LR/ Fpl, FDR, Huge Family Rm & EIK. Att Gar. Private Yd ....................................................... REDUCED!! $939,000

1240700

HEWLETT Bay PaRK

CEdaRHURST

332B Peninsula Blvd, BA, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth Coop Townhouse. LR, DR, Gran/Wood Kit w/ Stainless Steel Appl. Trex Deck Off LR.Primary Ste Features Updtd Bth & WIC. Att Gar Plus 1 Pkg Spot incl in Maintenance. W/D. Pull Down Attic. SD#15. Convenient to Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship ...........$449,000

How’s the market?? Please contact me for your free market report and personalized service!

“Leading Edge Award Winner” Robin Reiss

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Cell: 516.510.6484 Office: 516.623.4500 Robin.Reiss@elliman.com

1243267

HEWLETT

1554 Moffitt Ave, BA, WHOLE HOUSE RENTAL! Updtd 4 BR Col w/ 2 New Bths. LR/ Fpl, FDR, Den & Kit. Main Flr BR/Off. Newer W/D, Ductless AC Units, Gas Ht. 2 Car Det Gar. Enclosed Yard. SD#14 (Hewlett-Wood). Great Location Near Schools, Park, LIRR & Houses of Worship ............................................................................. $4500 per month 1534 Broadway #213, BA, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! Move Right Into This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Spacious Corner Unit. Updtd Gran/Wood Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Gar Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship..............................................................................................$649,000 1390 Broadway #117, BA, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Beautiful JR 4 Coop Apt in Luxurious Hewlett Townhouse. Huge LR & DR, Ren Kit w/ Wood Cab/ Quartz Counters/ Stainless St Appl. Encl Terrace Overlooking Garden can Be Rm. Spac BR w/ En Suite Bath. W/D in Apt. 24 Hr Drmn, Elevator, Valet Pkg, Priv Storage. Redone IG Comm Pool. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship ......$359,000 1267 Peninsula Blvd, BA, 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14 (Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck. HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship .....................$599,000

This Robin won’t rest until you are in your new NEST!

A BETTER WAY TO BUY AND SELL REAL ESTATE! “Call A Realtor With Proven Experience!” Rob Kolb Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Tripodi Shemtov Team

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

30 West Park Ave | Long Beach, NY 11561 Cell: 516-314-1728 • Office: 516-432-3400 Rob.Kolb@elliman.com • Elliman.com/RobKolb

One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country.

1239392

190 Meadowview Ave, BA, Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14. Near All. Must See This Unique Home! ................................................. REDUCED $2,700,000

A. Time and cost are a problem. You probably won’t get results in under seven months to a year. Building plans take time, and must involve the tenant’s specific input as to where walls, plumbing and equipment will be located. Most people treat plans like they’re just a suggestion, to be changed later, but the reality is that the onte eeper plans need to show very specifically what will be done. Those plans have to be filed with all the required application papers and a property survey with the building department, which will then put the plans in a lineup with all the other plan folders that come in that will eventually be reviewed. Depending on the size of the community, this process can take three to four months before you first hear back that your plans are objected to or rejected. Once you learn that you can’t be approved with a straight-away permit, you may request that the file go into a request for varying from the zoning code, since most municipalities do not allow overnight animal boarding. This is the zoning variance request. A zoning case is separate from a building permit, and requires the preparation of a map of the property, along with neighboring properties — sometimes, depending on the community, as far away as 600 feet. For commercial use, some municipalities require that the map show the accurate outline of all buildings and names of tenants and owners on each property, prepared by a licensed land surveyor. If the plans you submit on behalf of your potential tenant do not reflect the true layout of the shapes and sizes of rooms, the location of equipment, etc., you may find yourself applying again to repeat the process when a building inspector sees that the plans were not followed, so you and the tenant have to treat this process seriously. Also, if the building is not yet outfitted with sprinklers, plan on another seven- to 10-month process with the fire marshal. It can take less, but this is a common time frame. This process cannot be rushed, and isn’t like getting a driver’s license. Each tenant’s plans will need to be filed for separately. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

Anna Aprea Licensed RE Associate Broker CELL: 646-279-4781 Stacy Fredricks Coldwell Banker American Homes Licensed Real Estate Salesperson CELL: 516-859-3794 Coldwell Banker American Homes 493 Atlantic Ave Oceanside, NY 11572 1240928

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

Call the

USA Classified Network today!

1-800-231-6152

© 2024 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

Market Place • •

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

DaVe MaRloWe plUMBinG, inC. DBA BOB PHILLIPS PLUMBING

RepaiRs & installations

oFFiCe: 516-766-4583 Cell / teXt: 516-840-9432 • Insured • Licensed Master Plumber

1239975

1240724

• Faucets • Toilets • Waste Piping • Water Piping • Permits & Legalizations • Certified NYS Backflows • FREE Estimates

1239551

CALL FOR YOUR OWA_GotClutter_BW_Bold

ANNUAL TUNE UP

Sunday, August 02, 2020 11:31:01 AM

Offers Valid Offers ValidThrough Through12/23/23 1/31/24

1239965

www.beatofuel.com

10%OFF FOR NEW CUSTOMERS

www.unclogitnow.com

JVR Plumbing & Heating - Nassau Master Plumber lic # 2520 Suffolk # 2111 /Ins

new Hi-Tech Jetting customers only

CALL NOW 888-777-9709

Carpentry & Painting Specialist

Residential and Commercial - All Phases

“Anthony & J Home Improvement, Inc.” Also specializes in ★ Kitchens ★ Bathrooms ★ Finished Basements ★ Flooring ★ Repairs ★ Woodwork/mouldings ★ Siding ★ Gutters

516-678-6641– Licensed & Insured

Free estImAtes...call Anthony romeo 1240058

RELIABLE • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE FAMILY OWNED FOR OVER 65 YEARS

Always Affordable Chimney Inc.

CALL NOW FOR LOWEST PRICE

(516) 379-2727

CALL FOR MORE INFO No service in Long Beach

855-244-6880 • 516-830-0166

1237824

Sewer Drains

$99

1238982

HOME • COMMERCIAL

$69 $49

1241137

PROFESSIONAL CHIMNEY SERVICE

HEATING OIL

WE GET YOUR SEWER AND DRAINS FLOWING AGAIN

Exp. 2/14/24

alwaysaffchimney@aol.com Fully Licensed And Insured

1239401

516-223-2951

1237304

Your Safety Is Our Top Priority Now Oﬀering Seasonal Tune Ups Starting At $199 with FREE Chimney Inspection. Beato Fuel Serving Nassau And Suﬀolk Counties For Over 115 Years

www.alwaysaffordablechimney.com

J\ &/877(5 GULYLQJ \RX

CRAZY?

6HOO \RXU PHUFKDQGLVH LQ QR WLPH OO K GL L L NEED A CAR? Find it in the HERALD Classifieds.

(PDLO \RXU $G WR WKH +HUDOG DQG 3ULPH7LPH &ODVVLÀ HG 'HSDUWPHQW DW VDOHV#OLKHUDOG FRP WR UXQ D )5(( )LQGV 8QGHU WR UXQ D )5(( )LQGV 8QGHU

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

HERALD

Stuff

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

MERCHANDISE MART

FINDS UNDER $100

Antiques/Collectibles

Finds Under $100

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

2 MULTI-MEDIA OAK Storage Cabinets, New in Box, Half Price- $50 Firm. IKEA Unassembled. 516-486-7941

Open the door to a bright future! Check the

AREA RUG 5X7. Light Grays. Clean/Mint. call for pics. $75 516-225-9191 AUDIOVOX PLAYER D1998 with two earphones, battery charger, in black carry bag, $25, 516-678-0694 DELTA SINGLEHAND PULL Down Kitche n Fa u c e t , s i l v e r c h r o m e , $ 9 9 , 516-678-0694 GALAXY J 7 SMART phone: barely used, unlocked with catalogue, charger, case excellent. $40. 516-378-0250 VINTAGE ROSS REGENCY exercise bike in good working condition, $25 jeff 516-378-0250

SERVICES

Job listings today!

Cleaning Services

516-569-4000 Press 5

M A R I N A ' S C L E A N I N G S E RV I C E S : Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. 10% Off With This Ad. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764

HErald

Crossword Puzzle

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Handyman HANDYMAN Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated. Licensed and Insured. 30-Year Nassau County Resident. Friendly Frank Phone/Text 516-238-2112 E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

Home Improvement AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-920-9937 BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636 CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/ Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

Plumbing PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. 516-599-1011

Satellite/TV Equipment DIRECTV SPORTS PACK – 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some res t r i c t i o n s a p p l y. C a l l D I R E C T V 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Health & Fitness ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 888-514-3044

One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country. Call the USA Classified Network today!

1-800-231-6152

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-598-5898 VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE Autos Wanted ***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277

Junk Cars Wanted

HIGHEST CA$H PAID All Cars Bought 24/7 FREE Pickup

Serving Nassau County 41 Years No Title, No Keys=No Problem ID Required. CALL US LAST!

Call us at 516-766-0000

HIRING?

Place Your Ad in the Herald Help Wanted Classifieds. Call 516-569-4000, press 5 to speak to an Account Executive.

Answers to todAy’s puzzle

opinions

he United States is at a crossroads. For too long, leaders at all levels of government have turned a blind eye to the crisis unfolding on our southern border. Indeed, that porous border has fueled both a national drug crisis and a migrant crisis, which threaten to undermine the safety of Americans in communities across the country. The Biden administration has so far failed to articulate a clear plan to end these crises by securing the borAnTHonY der, and the cabiD’EsposiTo net official directly charged with implementing a border security plan, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, has routinely downplayed the problems that exist there. For failing to uphold his oath to safeguard the homeland by securing our borders, I have called on Mayorkas to resign. In the absence of a resignation, I believe he should be impeached. As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I will work to build a case for

impeaching Mayorkas in a transparent manner via the committee’s information-gathering process. Under Mayorkas’ leadership, the Department of Homeland Security has lost operational control of the border — a fact backed up by congressional testimony last March by Raul Ortiz, then the chief of the United States Border Patrol. This loss of control coincides with the fact that Border Patrol personnel have encountered over 8.1 million migrants since the beginning of the Biden administration, and an additional 1.7 million managed to evade overstretched law enforcement and slip into the country, according to sources in United States Customs and Border Protection. With the risk of terrorism at dangerously high levels and public safety deteriorating across the country, having 1.7 million “gotaways” roaming the streets of America is a frightening prospect. Our porous border is negatively impacting the quality of life of millions of Americans. On Jan. 2, New York City Mayor Eric Adams

announced that there were “a number of migrants who have committed crimes,” including some who had participated in a “robbery pattern.” More than 160,000 migrants have recently entered New York City, and they have elicited proclamations from Adams that the Big Apple may slash municipal services by up to 15 percent to pay for migrant services. What’s more, since the beginning of fiscal year 2021, 294 people on the United State’s terror watch list have been arrested trying to enter the country — but how many on that list evaded capture because they were among the 1.7 million “gotaways” and are currently in New York? Thanks to Mayorkas’ inability to stem the flow of migrants by securing the border, New Yorkers are facing additional public safety threats and reduced municipal services. In addition to serving as a pathway for migrants, the southern border has also been used as a gateway for drug smugglers to illegally import their dangerous narcotics into the United States.

nder his leadership, the department has lost control of the southern border.

Last fiscal year, Customs and Border Protection seized 27,293 pounds of poisonous fentanyl coming across the southwestern border, which is enough to kill around 6 billion — that’s billion — people. Regretfully, due to overstretched resources, CBP is able to seize only 5 to 10 percent of the fentanyl smuggled across the border, with the remainder making it to the streets of American cities and contributing to the 111,355 American overdose deaths that were recorded in the 12-month period ending in April 2023. Americans are being killed because of the porous southern border. I was proud to help pass H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act of 2023, in the House of Representatives, which would fully fund CBP and make critical investments in border security infrastructure. While I continue to advocate for my colleagues in the Senate to pass the sweeping border security plan outlined in H.R. 2, I will work to hold Mayorkas accountable for this crisis of his own creation — and there is no better way to hold him accountable than to fire him. Mayorkas must be impeached. Anthony D’Esposito represents the 4th Congressional District.

Trickle of funding reveals Blakeman’s skewed priorities

o date, Nassau County has received approximately $385 million in coronavirus relief money through the federal American Rescue Plan Act, and $85.2 million more in settlements from opioid manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Of that combined sum of approximately $470 million, Nassau County has to date only committed roughly $86 million and dispersed $7 million. While many DELiA have wondered DeRiGGi-WHiTTon about the almost palpable lack of urgency from the administration of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in getting these life-enriching and lifesaving funds into the community, a recent budget hearing potentially exposed the callous reason his administration continues to sit on

these funds. During the hearing, on Oct. 10, administration officials confirmed that the roughly $378 million in remaining proceeds from the ARPA funding and various opioid settlements is being used to bolster Nassau County’s reserves, which in turn are helping to boost and maintain the county’s credit score with rating agencies such as Moody’s, S&P Global and Fitch Ratings. Furthermore, every penny in interest that has and may be generated in the future by holding the opioid funds back was earned at the expense of someone who is struggling with the disease of addiction. All of this is simply appalling. It is only marginally less infuriating when you consider that Nassau’s ARPA funds could be applied to fighting hunger, combating homelessness, bolstering mental health programs,

supporting small businesses, enhancing youth services and so much more. For months, my colleagues in the County Legislature’s minority caucus and I have been advocating for approximately $12 million in itemized ARPA requests to help support organizations that provide vital community services. While those requests have languished in the Blakeman administration, the transfer of $10 million in Covid relief funds, done under the facade of “tourism” to fund lavish galas, parades and marketing to celebrate the county’s 125th anniversary this year, flew through the Legislature on Dec. 18. The minority caucus is unified in its outrage and opposition to this latest lapse in judgment, which serves as yet another example of how Blakeman and his administration are badly out of touch with the needs

ovid and opioid funds should trump the county’s 125th anniversary.

of our constituents. Federal Covid relief and opioid settlement funds were not meant to gather dust on ledger sheets, serve as an investment strategy, be used to butter up ratings agencies, or soothe the self-inflating ego of an elected official. They were meant to get into the community so they could be used to address the challenges our constituents are grappling with. With so many people struggling, and so many facing the unthinkable crisis of losing family members to addiction, spending $10 million on publicizing an anniversary celebration before releasing these opioid settlement funds is unconscionable. Let’s hope that in the new year, these lifesaving funds, as well as our federal relief funds, reach their intended destinations — at least as swiftly as Blakeman’s celebration funds did. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District, and is the Legislature’s minority leaderelect.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

We must impeach Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas

HeraLd editoriaL

Bellmore

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD

HERALD and Bellmore Herald News Established 1994

Incorporating Bellmore Life

Jordan Vallone Editor rachele TerranoVa Reporter roberT cummings Multi Media Marketing Consultant lisa malkin Multi Media Marketing Consultant office 2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530 Phone: (516) 569-4000 Fax: (516) 569-4942 Web: www.liherald.com E-mail: belleditor@liherald.com Copyright © 2024 Richner Communications, Inc.

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Cliff Richner Publisher, 1982-2018 Robert Richner Edith Richner Publishers, 1964-1987 ■ sTuarT richner Publisher ■ Jim roTche General Manager ■ michael hinman

Executive Editor Jeffrey bessen

Deputy Editor Jim harmon

Copy Editor karen bloom Features/Special Sections Editor Tony bellissimo Sports Editor Tim baker Photo Editor ■ rhonda glickman Vice President - Sales amy amaTo Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events

Decision 2024: a call for informed voters

n the weeks and months leading up to this year’s elections in November, it is pivotal that Long Island voters stay engaged with everything that’s going on in New York state and the nation. In 10 months, scores of millions of voters will flock to polling booths across the country to cast their ballots for state offices, Congress and the White House. Making informed decisions begins with early engagement. In an era when information is constantly being filtered through a wide variety of media, it is imperative that voters pay attention to political developments and take the time to understand the competing candidates, their policies, and the evolving dynamics in the political arena. Informed voting is the bedrock of a healthy democracy. It ensures that those who are elected fulfill their promises and legislate based on the values and needs of the people they serve. Long Island, much like the rest of the country, needs leaders who genuinely understand the challenges faced by their communities, and who possess the foresight to make difficult choices. Critical issues that touch the lives of every resident will undoubtedly shape this year’s elections. From health care, to climate change, to economic development and social justice, understanding where candidates stand is paramount.

lori berger Sales Director ellen reynolds Classified / Inside Sales Director ■

Jeffrey negrin Creative Director craig WhiTe Art Director craig cardone Production Coordinator ■

dianne ramdass Circulation Director ■ herald communiTy neWsPaPers Baldwin Herald Bellmore Herald East Meadow Herald Franklin Square/Elmont Herald Freeport Herald Glen Cove Herald Hempstead Beacon Long Beach Herald Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald Malverne/West Hempstead Herald Merrick Herald Nassau Herald Oceanside/Island Park Herald Oyster Bay Herald Rockaway Journal Rockville Centre Herald Sea Cliff/Glen Head Herald Seaford Herald South Shore Record Uniondale Herald Beacon Valley Stream Herald Wantagh Herald

member:

Americas Newspapers Local Media Association New York Press Association Bellmore Chamber of Commerce

Published by richner communications, inc. 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530 LIHerald.com (516) 569-4000

Letters Those college presidents shouldn’t get all blame To the Editor: Re Alan J. Singer’s op-ed last month, “Three college heads who lacked street smarts”: Professor Singer makes the point that the university presidents grilled by rightwing U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York at last month’s congressional hearing suffered from a lack of “street smarts,” leading to the resignation of one (now two) of them. While that may be true, the pointed questioning and harassment of the university presidents at those hearings deserves condemnation. House members engaging in McCarthy-era tactics in those Education Committee hearings does not bode well for democracy. If anyone should resign, it should be Stefanik. Apparently the three presidents failed to respond adequately to hypothetical verbal support of genocide by students at their universities. There is no evidence that such a call for genocide against Jews has been expressed on college campuses. Rather, it is a fantasy of Stefanik and other culture war fanatics. Students

Don’t wait until you step inside the voting booth to make decisions you hope align with your own priorities. Stay informed by keeping up with reputable news outlets — such as your local newspaper. With so many talking heads touting their agendas on cable news outlets, it’s important to keep your ear close to the ground and pay attention to what is going on in your own neighborhood. Bias and misinformation erode the foundation of democracy, sowing seeds of doubt by distorting facts and adding a political slant. News organizations have a responsibility to offer accurate information, but there are times when information can be misused to skew opinions. So, know where the information is coming from. Your local paper is the perfect place to read all about what’s happening. Not that you can’t turn on the television, but broadcast media tend to focus on national issues and how candidates plan to address foreign policy, spending, energy and immigration. All of that is crucially important — especially as it relates to the presidential race — but the issues at the forefront of local elections are just as important, if not more so. Remember, every decision made at the local level will shape the fabric of the community. It’s impossible to miss news of a spe-

cial election happening right in our backyard, even if you don’t live on the North Shore. On Feb. 13, voters will decide who will replace the disgraced former congressman George Santos in the 3rd Congressional District. Voters will choose between former U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi — a Democrat from Glen Cove who held this seat before making an unsuccessful run for governor in 2022 — and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip, of Great Neck, who is representing Republicans. As for those who live on the South Shore, the June primary will be just as important to Democrats, at least, looking to reclaim the seat in the 4th Congressional District now occupied by U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, a Republican who handily won the 2022 race against Laura Gillen. Gillen is back for another try, but would need to beat State Sen. Kevin Thomas to represent Democrats once again in November. Regardless of the outcomes, the decisions made in this fall’s elections will reverberate for many years to come. That is why all of us must seize the opportunity to shape our future by gathering all the information we can about the candidates who are running. The responsibility to contribute lies with every voter. Let us not merely stand witness. Let us take an active role and help shape the future for the better.

opinions

few days ago, we rang in the new year, filled with optimism about the new beginnings we hope 2024 will bring us. Much is made about New Year’s resolutions, often jokingly described as promises made to be broken, but they’re a valuable exercise, because setting goals is important. Whether it’s losing weight, exercising more or quitting smoking, resolutions shouldn’t be empty promises or pie-in-the-sky wishes, but rather achievements to work toward to make the year ahead more prossteVe perous. rHoaDs As we begin a new legislative session this month, here’s what Albany’s resolutions for 2024 should be. First, to get our state’s finances in order. Reckless, irresponsible spending increases over the past several years of one-party rule in Albany have left New York with a projected $36 billion cash shortfall for the next four years, accord-

ing to the state comptroller’s office. Albany’s knee-jerk reaction is to take more money out of your pocket to cover its lack of fiscal discipline. With outrageously high taxes, a toxic business climate and people fleeing the state in record numbers, reducing spending and doing more with less, while simultaneously making smart investments in the right priorities, are the only ways to close the gap. An immediate step in the right direction should be ending New York’s sanctuary state status and eliminating the numerous taxpayer-funded benefits — including free health care — for illegal immigrants. This single action would save approximately $2 billion in taxpayer dollars and remove a major incentive for illegal immigrants to flock to our state. Additionally, rather than suing bus companies for transporting migrants as a nonsensical gimmick, the city and state should be suing the Biden administration to cover the state’s costs of dealing with the self-inflicted migrant crisis created by the federal government’s failure to enforce immigration laws and protect

nding New York’s sanctuary state status would be a step in the right direction.

Letters and faculty at universities have courageously confronted unjustified censure and bullying in response to a very real catastrophe — a relentless ethnic cleansing and genocidal war being waged by the Israeli government, supported by our own, against the Palestinian people of Gaza. JIM BROWN Secretary, Green Party of Nassau County

Congestion pricing would benefit everyone To the Editor: It’s not surprising that Long Island lawmakers are pandering to the tiny minority of their constituents who would actually pay the $15 congestion fee for driving into Manhattan south of 60th Street. But it is disappointing that these officials fail to see beyond the narrow interests of this small group and recognize the big and broad benefits of congestion pricing, including for hundreds of thousands of Long Islanders. How could those who took part in the Dec. 11 anti-congestion-pricing news conference not notice the irony of holding their kvetch fest at the Long Island Rail Road’s Mineola station? Part of the $15 billion projected to be raised annually by the added fees will go toward improving LIRR service for the 200,000 Long Islanders who take trains into the city on an

our national sovereignty. Next, make our communities safer by repealing the disastrous bail-reform laws that enable and encourage criminals to commit more crimes. There’s more than enough evidence to show that bail reform has compromised public safety and hurt our communities. We need look no further than the incident last summer in which an armed offender with an extensive criminal record, who was on the streets only because of bail reform, walked into the middle of Jerusalem Avenue in North Bellmore with a gun, pointing it at drivers and pedestrians. Only the heroic efforts of the Nassau County Police Department prevented this from becoming a tragedy. Together with this, repeal the new Clean Slate law, which hides criminal convictions for crimes such as manslaughter, domestic violence, animal abuse, and hate crimes from civil background checks as soon as three years after an offender is released from prison. People deserve an opportunity to put their lives on the right track after paying their debt to society, but employers,

average weekday. Besides making rail commuting more comfortable and convenient, congestion pricing will reduce air pollution and the risk of car crashes in Manhattan. And those positives shouldn’t be ignored by Long Island representatives. Why do they not respect the decision of their fellow lawmakers to better safeguard public health and safety in the city? In addition, Long Island isn’t an island, economically. More than 300,000 of its residents earn their living from Manhattan-based businesses, according to the Regional Plan Association. These commuters make an average annual salary of $124,000, amounting to total income of $38 billion that’s spent largely on Long Island. Politicians such as State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick oppose congestion pricing partly on the grounds that it is a “tax” unfairly imposed on Long Islanders, as she claimed in a Herald op-ed last month, “Congestion pricing isn’t really about congestion.” That’s a misuse of the term. Taxes are required payments; congestion pricing is an optional fee. No one is being forced to drive a car into Manhattan. The $15 fee — and the additional parking and gasoline costs — can be avoided by riding the LIRR. Encouraging more Long Islanders to take the train is, after all, a key objective of congestion pricing. KEvIN J. KELLEY Atlantic Beach

landlords and institutions that are responsible for the safety of others also deserve to have that information when deciding whom to trust to work in their businesses, live in their homes and attend their schools. Prioritizing criminals over public safety needs to stop. Finally, Albany should resolve to combat the hate and antisemitism that is becoming unacceptably commonplace, especially on college campuses. Passing legislation to require colleges to report antisemitic acts and events on their campuses, and to withhold state funds from those that refuse, would be a positive step. No one should fear harassment or violence because of his or her religious beliefs, especially at educational institutions of “higher learning.” Our state is headed in the wrong direction. More people are moving out of New York than any other state in the country, according to a U.S. Census Bureau report released last month, and the quality of life has deteriorated for those of us who remain. Adopting these New Year’s resolutions, and following through on them, is essential to putting us back on the right track. Steve Rhoads represents the State Senate’s 5th District.

Framework by Tim Baker

On Mill Pond - Wantagh

BELLMORE HERALD — January 11, 2024

Some New Year’s resolutions I’d suggest for Albany

Quality, Service and Experience

We outperform all our competitors in Merrick

R&U AUTO

TAKE $250 OFF

Valid only for Collision valued at $2000 or more when you mention ad.

R&U Auto Body Collision • 516-379-6581

R&U AUTO

We are an approved body repair facility serving all major insurance companies.

10 KEES PL, MERRICK NY 11566

HELP WANTED

Autobody Technician and Tow Truck Driver Call 516-379-6581

1243409

January 11, 2024 — BELLMORE HERALD