Bellmore Herald 07-06-2023

South Nassau Water Authority to hold first meeting

The advocacy group Long Island Clean Air Water & Soil protested a proposed 42 percent water rate increase in the Merrick Service District, which includes Bellmore, outside Liberty Utilities headquarters on June 27. Fred Harrison, right, made his feelings clear.

The group has been pressuring the South Nassau Water Authority, the public entity tasked with taking over Liberty, to hold a public meeting. Last week, it was announced that the authority will meet on June 11, at 6 p.m., at the Lynbrook Public Library.

For more about the meeting, visit LIHerald.com/Bellmore.

From Australia to Long Island

Congregation Beth Ohr welcomes spiritual leader, Rabbi Rishe Groner

By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com

Growing up in the Chabad movement of Judaism, Jewish traditions and values have always been a part of Rabbi Rishe Groner’s life.

Groner, who graduated from rabbinical school at the Jewish Theological Seminary in Manhattan on May 18, will become Congregation Beth Ohr’s new rabbi on Aug. 1. The conservative synagogue in Bellmore is a lively Jewish center that merged with Congregation Beth-El of Massapequa in 2016, and with Temple Israel of South Merrick in 2019.

Groner brings with her a breadth of worldly experience, and her position at Beth Ohr signals a new beginning for the congregation, driven by traditional Jewish customs as well as different and unique ways to experience all the things people know and love about their heritage and beliefs.

Groner, 37, grew up in Melbourne, Australia, where her father is a Chabad rabbi.

“Chabad is an international

movement that focuses on Jewish outreach and connecting people to the Jewish community,” Groner said.

The second of 11 children, Groner moved to the United States in 2010, and in the years since has been joined by many of her siblings. Her parents are both American, and were instrumental in establishing a Chabad community in Australia, following in the footsteps of her paternal grandfather, who moved there from Brooklyn.

“I grew up with rabbis in my family, and my family was really into this Chabad concept — you give over your whole life, you give over your whole soul,” she said. “And I really struggled with that.”

In her youth, Groner said, she had a hard time understanding the segregation of males and females in traditional sects of Judaism.

“It took me years later, until my grandmother died, and I was like, wow, I was really blessed to be in that women’s space,

Continued on page 2

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Rabbi Rishe Groner

$1.00

Former student rabbi begins new role on Aug. 1

because it was really powerful women, doing really powerful spiritual work,” she recalled. “But it was very segregated, and I never really knew what my place was going to be.”

Groner said she always loved studying Jewish traditions in school, and in her teens, she went to Israel and met young people like herself from all over the world. “It was my first exposure to, like, there’s so many different ways to be Jewish,” she said.

Groner attended Monash University in Melbourne, where she studied business, marketing and communications.

“I had two pieces that were sort of shaping my career,” she said. “Every time I left a job working in a Jewish place, that was very nourishing to my soul, to work in corporate, that felt a little more straightforward and simple, I couldn’t sleep at night. I always felt like, what am I doing serving a corporate goal when I really care about something bigger?”

Throughout her early adult years, Groner compartmentalized her spiritual life and her work life. But as she became more invested in Jewish festivals and celebrations that incorporated music, dance and other forms of spiritual expression, her separate lives began to meld into one. Around 2018, she decided rabbinical school would be her next step.

The Jewish Theological Seminary in Manhattan is a conservative institution,

Groner said. “I grew up in Australia, where that doesn’t really exist,” she explained. “But I really appreciated the commitment to tradition and also innovation.”

She arrived at Beth Ohr last September as a student rabbi, after the congregation’s previous leader, Rabbi Dahlia Bernstein, left in June. “It was a very divinely aligned opportunity,” Groner said. “It was just one of those really good matches, where we both, you know, dated other people and decided we liked each other,” she went on. “It was really nice for me to feel like I’m at home here, and I feel like I’ve really connected to a lot of people in the community. I see where the opportunities are — I know where I want to start.”

Despite the fact that Groner had lived in Brooklyn for many years, Long Island felt a bit foreign to her. But, she said her proximity to the beach is reminiscent of her childhood in Australia, and is something she greatly appreciates.

She is working with the congregation’s cantor, Joshua Diamond, its learning and programming director, Ellen Agulnick, and its president, Joseph Weisbord, among many other key people, to begin making her ideas for Beth Ohr a reality.

“The congregation is excited to welcome Rabbi Rishe as our new rabbi,” Weisbord said. “We were impressed with her spiritual strength, warmth, intelligence and her ability to relate to students in our innovative Hebrew school. We look forward to a long and rewarding relationship with her.”

“I think some things we’re focusing on is building an intergenerational commu-

nity, from early childhood to teens to parents to the older generations, who have done an amazing job building this community.

“I really see an area of exciting possibility for us in bringing in different modalities of spiritual practice that is nourishing to the soul,” Groner said, “and giving people tools for dealing with this crazy world.”

Tim Baker/Herald Rabbi Rishe GRoneR, the new spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Ohr, with Joseph Weisbord, the synagogue’s president, Evelyn Polay, Cantor Joshua Diamond and County Legislator Michael Giangregorio at the congregation’s Purim celebration in March.

Cancer documentary has smashin’ premiere

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Christina Mathieson-Segura has spent most of her life as a go-getter. A single mom and businesswoman for many years, she described herself as a problem-solver.

“I’ve spent a lot of my life trying to help, empowering women,” she said. “I took a lot of pride in shoving a square peg into a round hole with nobody telling me I couldn’t do something. I was on a mission.”

That attitude changed, however, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2020. But, Mathieson-Segura took her fears and turned them into something beautiful: her documentary, “You’ll Be OK Too: Christina’s Journey,” premiered on June 20 at the Bellmore Movies.

“I wanted my journey to be of value to somebody, someday,” she said. “I had the worst anxiety of my life. I would go to sleep, and I would wake up at 2 in the morning, gasping for air, realizing I had cancer — and it was debilitating.”

It’s been nearly two years since Mathieson-Segura, now 58, finished treatment — six months of chemotherapy followed by a double mastectomy, reconstructive surgery and a complete hysterectomy, all at once, during a 12-hour long procedure.

Her own diagnosis was reminiscent of her mom’s, who died from breast cancer at 48, when MathiesonSegura was 23. Watching her mom suffer at a time when treatment options weren’t as vast was traumatizing.

“The chemotherapy was really like, in my opinion, let’s bring somebody as close to death as we possibly can and hope this works,” Mathieson-Segura said. “It was a completely different time. I had that etched in my memory, and I buried it. Our brains do wonderful things to protect us.”

Taking her journey into her own hands, MathiesonSegura began taking short, selfie videos of herself throughout her treatment process. What she wanted to show people is that she was OK — and that they’d be OK too.

“Throughout the process, I kept making these videos, and I thought the next woman that goes through this is going to at least have something to look at when you feel awful because you’re bald and you don’t have eyebrows,” she told the Herald. “Or you feel awful because the chemotherapy is making you gain weight.

“I wanted every woman to know that she was entitled to be mad, sad, angry, upset, anxious,” she added, “and that it was OK to ask for help.”

Accumulating over a hundred videos, she also interviewed four additional women, who were willing to share their thoughts and experiences. With the help of producers Charlie Steiner and Holli Haerr, her vision came to life.

The documentary’s premiere on June 20 was a night to celebrate the triumph of women like Mathieson-Segura. She wants women to feel inspired and empowered, and know that they are capable of fighting — just like she.

Looking back on her cancer journey, Mathieson-Segura called her newfound outlook on life “post-traumatic growth.”

“After you go through something, you realize how strong you are and how powerful you are,” she said in June. “Your life is never the same. My life is now the happiest it’s ever been.”

Mathieson-Segura created a nonprofit in the same name as her documentary. For more on her mission, and for links to the documentary, visit YoullBeOkToo.org.

MAthiEsONsEguRA with ONE of the documentary’s producers, Charles Steiner.

MAthiEsONsEguRA wAs ENgAgED to her husband, Jose, just two months before her diagnosis. She said he greatly supported her throughout her treatment process.

Tim Baker/Herald photos ChRistiNA MAthiEsON-sEguRA, CENtER, in pink, premiered her cancer documentary on June 20. She was joined by her family, from left, Jose Segura III, Sam Mina, Jose Segura, Kelly Mina, Christina Segura and Nicole Muhns.

MOtiVAtiONAL spEAkER hELEN Cernigliaro spoke at the premiere.

www.bellmorelibrary.org

516-785-2990

ask@bellmorelibrary.org

Crime watCh

Arrests

■ Miury Martinez, 51, from North Bellmore, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting from Macy’s on Old Country Road in East Garden City on June 24.

■ Jose A. Aguilar Galan, 29, from East Meadow, was arrested on June 26 for allegedly shoplifting from Home Depot on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown.

■ Anthony M. Cammarata, 32, from Levittown, was arrested for alleged DWI at Taco Bell, located on Old Country Road in Westbury, on June 28.

Criminal Mischief

■ On June 23, an individual reported that her PVC fences were damaged by an unknown suspect on Oakfield Avenue in North Bellmore.

■ An East Meadow man reported that his PVC fence was damaged on Randall Avenue on June 23.

■ Checkers Restaurant, located on Sunrise Highway in Massapequa, reported that unknown suspect(s) damaged pieces of particle board from the location on June 25.

Larceny

■ On June 20, an individual on Pennsylvania Avenue in Massapequa reported

that six Amazon gift cards were stolen from the location.

■ On June 21, a man reported that various items were stolen from his car while it was parked at the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Roosevelt Avenue in East Meadow.

■ At the Treehouse Inn, located on Sunrise Highway in Merrick, a man reported that unknown suspect(s) stole his catalytic converter while it was parked on June 23.

■ Stop & Shop, located on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow, reported that an unknown male suspect stole various items from the store on June 25.

■ On South Hewlett Avenue in Merrick, a man reported that an unknown male suspect stole a garage door remote from his car while parked on June 26.

■ On June 26, a woman reported that a wheel lock key was stolen from his vehicle while parked on Pinetree Lane in Levittown.

■ CVS, located on Seaman’s Neck Road in Seaford, reported that an unknown male suspect stole various items from the store on June 27.

■ Key Food, located on Carman’s Road in Massapequa, reported that an unknown male suspect stole various items from the store on June 28.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

Woman arrested in withdrawal scheme

A Freeport woman was arrested on June 29 for a slew of monetary withdrawals police say she committed between Feb. 8 and April 4 of this year in North Bellmore.

According to Nassau County Police detectives, Ashley Atkinson, 22, of Freeport was employed as a staff member of the AHRC located at 1070 Bellmore Road.

The Camp Readmore Bookworm Trophy has been stolen by a rival summer camp Sneak into their campgrounds to find the trophy before you get caught!

All ages are welcome! This room is recommended for ages 5 and up Children under 10 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

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Atkinson allegedly made a total of 37 unauthorized withdrawals out of six vulnerable elderly residents’ accounts, totaling $4,400, and falsified business records in attempt to conceal the withdrawals.

Atkinson is charged with grand larceny, scheme to defraud and falsifying business records. She was arraigned on June 30.

Ashley Atkinson

Getting mental health help when needed most

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

The term “mental health” is often misunderstood, with many often thinking it’s limited to having a mental illness or being mentally ill.

But mental health is about how good people feel emotionally, and the behaviors associated with them. It helps determine how people handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

Just like how people take care of their bodies, they also need to take care of their mind and emotions. More often than not, people don’t think of their mental health until it is something they must deal with.

In fact, a Truth in Medicine poll released last year by Oceanside’s Mount Sinai South Nassau, found that 36 percent of Long Island residents say they or their adult family member faced challenges accessing mental health services care, like simply getting an appointment.

Limited access to health insurance is often the biggest challenge in accessing such care, county officials said. A recent town hall by Nassau County’s mental health, chemical dependency and developmental disabilities services department held at Nassau Community College, shared some of the options people might have, health insurance or not.

The gathering outlined a plethora of resources available within the county beginning, of course, with calling 911 for medical, police, fire, or rescue emergencies. But there’s additional help available — 988 — for confidential emotional support involving thoughts of suicide or any other emotional distress.

For those seeking to seek help in-person, Nassau County offers more than 50 resources, organization that have pledged to help the community, even if paying for those services might be an issue.

One of those newest resources set to begin next year is with the Central Nassau Guidance and Counseling Services. Jaclyn McCarthy, the center’s division director, said there’s often a genetic component for poor mental health, where people may be predisposed to developing some of the inabilities to manage stress or difficult situations in their life. Environmental factors, as well as sleep deprivation, or social factors like unstable relationships or substance abuse, can influence someone’s need to seek treatment.

But McCarthy also notes people often don’t seek help because of the stigma associated with addressing mental health. For instance, cultural taboo can deter people who desperately want to better themselves.

“People don’t feel as though they are going to be perceived in the same way by family or friends — or their employer — if they say that they’re struggling,” McCarthy said. “So people don’t speak up about it, and people don’t access the resources. But part of what all of us here today are really here to talk about is how to stand up and talk about it, and allow people to feel more comfortable with it so that we can help reduce that stigma for everyone.”

Treatment is different for every person, but individual therapy is a standard practice for those seeking help.

Five Mental Health Resources in Nassau

■ Central Nassau Guidance and Counseling Services

— Projected to open in early 2024

■ Family Treatment and Recovery Center — (516) 746-0350

■ Long Island Addiction Center — (516) 788-6449

■ Mercy Recover House — (516) 868-2244

■ The Charles Evans Center — (516) 622-8888

“We ask what do they want to get out of these sessions, and what are their biggest struggles so that we can help tailor intervention specifically for them,” she said. “Not everyone needs to take medication or is even encouraged to take it. It depends on their situation.”

Patients seeking treatment for substance use or behavioral issues hang on to the patterns and habits that don’t suit them because they’ve used them to cope with their stress,” McCarthy said. A major part of a patient’s treatment is to help them understand that relapse can potentially happen.

“We try to help them identify it before it happens so that they can put their coping skills in place prior to struggling with a relapse,” she said.

“We all want the same goal. We all want to make sure that individuals have help for whatever they need help

Tuesday, July 11, 2023, 6 p.m.

At this event, you will have the opportunity to speak with Hofstra faculty, and learn about services offered by Residence Life, Student Financial Services, and the Center for Career Design and Development. You can also virtually tour our beautiful 244-acre campus.

For event details and to RSVP, please visit hofstra.edu/gradoh.

Jaclyn McCarthy

No matter the industry, businesses around the world are undergoing dramatic changes to the way they operate. From technology and skills development, to cultural barriers, self-care and mental health, every organization must adapt and evolve, or risk being left behind.

As we navigate a time of pivotal change, the Herald’s 2023 WE Summit presented by Bank of America brings together thought leaders, innovators and barrier-breaking women for conversations around this year’s theme: The Future is Now.

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT

For more information about WE Summit or sponsorship opportunities, contact Amy Amato:

Herald ScHoolS

Merrick Avenue’s 2023 graduates

Merrick Avenue Middle School

8th Grade

Sienna Abbruzzese

Emma Abel

Max Adelstein

Inaaya Ahmed

Michael Aievoli

Leo Alesia

Grace Allen

Hudson Amato

Erini Antonakis

Arthur Ardo

Ava-Lynn Assabi

Sage Audinot

Kellan AuYeung

Arianna Azcona

Dylan Babek

Marjorie Baca

Matthew Bailey

Mia Barahona

Emma Barend

Grace Barnes

Sean Barodin

Farrah Barone

Julia Barone

Stephanie Barreno

Edris Basir

Damian Battista

Brandon Bedoya

Paul Belfand

Mackenzie Belmonte

Rebecca Ben-Dayan

Caitlin Benjamin

Alexa Bernstein

Alec Bloch

Kohana Bloom

Ella Bodner

Tyler Booker

Leana Bowden

Gwenyth Bracchi

Scott Braterman

Aidan Brecciano

Eden Brennan

Shane Brennan

Samara Brewer

Anisah Brown

Josiah Brown

Justin Brown

Connor Brugge

Jake Burlock

Gregory Byrne

Emily Cacciatore

Christian Caiazzo

Adriana Calderon

Daniella Campana

Anthony Cespedes

Nikkolis Cestaro

Adeline Chaffey

Caroline Chawla

Angie Chen

Youye Chen

Joy Cheng

Gabrielle Chernobilsky

James Chicco

Harlan Chugerman

Nathan Chugerman

Julianna Cimino

Sophia Cincinelli

Adelmo Cioffi

Phoebe Clancy

Roxy Clarke

Eva Cohen

Aiden Connolly

Gabriel Cox

Sophia Cozelino

Camil Cruz

Giselle Cruz

Isabella Cruz

Penelope Cruz

Sabrina Curcio

Tess Curcio

Jessica Czarnecki

Kimberly Czarnecki

Casey DaCosta

Brooke D’Amico

Nicholas D’Amore

Abigail DaSilva

Victoria DeJesus

Aidan Dela Cruz

Liam Delmore

Grayson DeMato

Noah Diamant

Chelsea Diel

Alexa Dombe

Hailey Dowd

Abigail Dubs

Brady Dumelle

Madeline Dutan

Allison Ecker

Samuel Ehrlich

Zoe Engstrom

Jonathan Escobar

Nicolas Esposito

Yael Farhangian

Chase Fernandez

Julia Ferrara

Ava Fierro

Deanna Finale

Jordana Finale

Ryan Fiscella

Sophie Fischer

Emma Fischetti

Giuliana Fishel

Kaitlin Fisher

Aidan Flores

Brody Flynn

Leah Forie

Rose Formisano

David Fortin

Adam Franklin

Demetra Frasiolas

David Frias

Delilah Frieman

Joel Fuentes

Mason Fulmer

Josephine Galletta

Ryan Garcia

Ethan Garet

Chloe Garner

Daniel Gass

Shane Gavigan

Carina Gavnoudias

Robert Gentili

Alexandros Gerasimou

Tessa Gerrard

Constantine Giannakakis

Madison Gies

Luke Giglio

Nicholas Giulekas

Dylan Glaser

Laura Glazer

Abigail Golbin

Reese Goldmark

Mateo Gonzalez

Brooke Goodman

Max Goodman

Dania Granados

Scott Gray

Olivia Grieco

Benjamin Gubba

Zachary Gubba

Jeremy Guberman

Miriam Gunsburg

Lorelei Guzowski

Victoria Haloulakos

Cienna Handel

Arielle Harel

Kayela Heaney

Liam Hendel

Lauren Henkell

Genesis Hernandez

Noah Katz

Patrick Keane

Megan Keene

Karim Kessba

Emil Khairov

Laila Khalfan

Mikayla Khamish

Akif Khan

Matthew Kharats

Mia Kissel

Laila Kitatani

James Klawsnik

Sarah Knaust

Olivia Kogan

Samantha Kraemer

David Krass

Katelyn Kuhl

Molly Laby

Sadie Laby

Samari Lagos

Nicolo’ Maltese

Nicholas Maresca

Andrew Marino

Jack Martin

Alexandra Martins

Madison Martins

Francesco Marzella

Jillian Matthews

Brandon McCabe

James McDermott

Katherine McElroy

Gavin McElwaine

Aidan McGloin

Jorden McLean

James McManus

Jaden Megias

Cy Memi

Talia Menghi

Kooper Michals

Zachary Migdal

Marco Perper

Olivia Perrotta

Christopher Petrocelli

Madison Petry

Justin Pfeffer

Chloe Phillips

Leena Phillips

Luciana Piedrahita

Lola Pikus

Dominick Pinsky

John Pizzirusso

Brody Powers

Lucas Prestia

Julianna Puzzele

Julia Ragusa

Jack Rainone

Antonio Ramirez

Ellie Ramlowtan

Elizabeth Ramos

Daniel Raspanti

Samantha Raymar

Natalie Reeves Castillo

Maeve Reid

Dylan Resnick

Juliana Reynolds

Aaron Ribenbach

Dominic Riese

Abraham Rivas

Ava Robinson

Ethan Robinson

Janelle Rodriguez

Max Rohr

Caleb Rojas

Catherine Rooney

Brendan Rosenthal

Lindsay Rowell

Jaida Rozario

Olivia Russo

Simon Saba

Saarim Safdar

Wyatt Saldarelli

Cazandra Salmeron

Irene Salvador-Andrade

Vincent Sampogna

Anthony Sanchez

MAP VALEDICTORIAN

Joseph Solorzano-Ruiz

Leonard Soria

Sheldon Soya

Giovanni Spilabotte

Jacob Spinner

Leila Staton

Camryn Stegner

Amy Stein

Frankie Stella

Lily Syska

Grace Taormina

Sophia Tartamella

Ethan Temkin

Griffin Tenenbaum

Luke Tepfer

Michael Teta

Brooke Thatcher

Sean Tleuliyev

Matthew Tolipano

Andrew Tomeo

Olivia Tong

Zachary Torres

Richard Trampas

Evan Trott

Lily Turner

Sophie Turner

Jillian Tuttle

Avery Valerio

Aidan Vas

Kaleb Hernandez

Gavin Herzog

Kristen Higgins

Emily Hill

Jayden Hines

Jessica Hittner

Patrick Hofmann

Molly Hofmayer

Addison Huber

Brooke Hulsaver

Will Hutchinson

Nicholas Ippoliti

Hajra Iqbal

Julia Isaac

Dalia Ismakov

Steven Jackman

Aaron Jacobs

Harry Jerozal

Gavin Jiang

Diego Jimenez-Melendez

Leland Kab

Naina Kapadia

Aaron Kaplan

Luca Kaplan

Maria Kardiasmenos

Angelica Kasimatis

Eden Kastenbaum

Vanessa Landolphi

Samantha Lapidus

Sophia Larsen

Paige Larson

Emma Lasky

Dylan Latorre

Karissa Lau

Adriana Lazo

Sarina LeBlanc

Angeline Leiva-Berganza

Isabella Leo

Maxwell Levine

Abby Lewis

Liam Lindbom

Cameron Linn

Olivia Lipfert

Callie Lodge

Hollyn Loftin

Jayden Lopez

Johann Lopez

Charles Ludwig

Nicholas Lupo

Madeline Lynch

Ryan Lynch

Danielle Lynott

Noah Mallalieu

Gavin Maltese

Paris Milito

Aiden Miller

Leah Minkoff

Avram Mogilyansky

Celia Moschella

Jonathan Mpoy

Christopher Munoz

Marion Munson

Tyler Murphy

Christopher Murray

Jordan Myrie

Alexander Nalbone

Katherine Nalbone

Elle Napoli

Benjamin Nappi

Lindsay Nashtatik

Michael Nicholson

Peyton O’Keeffe

Carina Onesto

Cristian Onesto

Juliette Osorio

Giselle Ospedales

Mia Ostrander

Christopher Palacios-Funez

Ray Park

Luke Peckham

Riley Peckham

Ianna Sanchez Aguilera

Daniel Sandberg

Jesse Sandler

Angelina Santiago

Jack Scaduto

Joseph Scamardella

Violet Scettini

Keith Schaefer

Alexa Schenfeld

David Scher

Gabrielle Schlechter

Daniel Schnaier

Parker Schulman

Mia Scolieri

Brenden Seaman

Kate Seidler

Avinash Selvakumar

Rylie Sena

Anjolie Serrette

Jahan Shahbaz

Emilia Simeone

John Simeone

Stephen Simpkins

Ava Slovinsky

Dylan Smith

James Smith

Joseph Smith

Angie Ventura Melgar

Nicolas Vergara

Chloe Volpe

Amelia Volz

Jonas Wan

Timothy Wang

Derek Weiss

Steven Welti

Jason Whitaker

Thomas Wickersham

Siddhangi Wickramasinghe

Madeline Wiener

Brooke Wiles

Natanya Winiarsky

Brianna Witt

Mason Witte

Mckenzie Wolfe

Ian Yegidis

Leanna Yip

Derek Yormack

Ryan Yormack

Hannah Yoselowitz

Gavin Zenie

Yuming Zhou

Alexa Zohar

Sky Zohar

Grayson Zukoff

Camerin mCmanus

N. Bellmore grads are ready for middle school

More than 300 soon-to-be middle schoolers walked across three stages on June 21 as the North Bellmore School District held its sixth grade graduations. They arrived in caps and gowns and left with diplomas in hand.

Saw Mill Road Elementary School’s ceremony was held at the Brookside School, John G. Dinkelmeyer and Park Avenue elementary school programs were back-to-back at Merrick Avenue Middle School, while Martin Avenue and Newbridge Road graduates got a sneak peak of their next stop – Grand Avenue Middle School.

Park Avenue Principal Michael DeBlasio marveled at the strength of his graduating class — both collectively and as individuals.

“When I use the word strong, or strength, I am not referring to your physical stature or ability, but rather the conviction with which you make your decisions,” he said. “As I do every morning on announcements, I tell you to make good choices. And you have, you all truly have made great choices.”

Middle school, Saw Mill Principal Jeffrey Rosof explained, means more freedom, more choices, more temptations, more responsibility and more work – all challenges they are prepared to meet.

“Use what you have learned to move forward with courage” he told his 109 graduates, the largest class among North Bellmore’s five schools. “Rely on your foundation from your family and Saw Mill to continue to grow intellectually and socially.”

At Martin Avenue, “pride” is a regular reference and Principal Jim O’Brien expressed how proud he is of the graduates for all they have accomplished over the years. He noted that they always faced challenges with a positive attitude and lived their lives with integrity.

Dinkelmeyer Principal Danica Brugge recounted meeting her “treasured learners” when they were second graders and quickly learned they had a contagious

energy that was a mix of positivity, excitement and sweetness.

“The strong connection you have with one another can be felt,” she said. “The reputation that you have established as individuals and as a group is that of warm, kind and caring classmates but also hard-working and dedicated scholars.”

Newbridge Road Principal Amanda Licci said that elementary graduation is just one of many milestones they will reach in life. She encouraged students to take in the moment, reflect on the memories and show their “Newbridge heart” by thanking the people who have made an imprint on their lives.

Park avenue elementary School sixth grade teacher Nicole Giusto greeted graduates as they arrived.

after receivinG their diplomas, Dinkelmeyer sixth graders officially became graduates when they turned their tassels.

Courtesy North Bellmore School District

John G. Dinkelmeyer Elementary School Principal Danica Brugge congratulated her sixth grade graduates before the start of the ceremony on June 21 at Merrick Avenue Middle School.

Thank you, Laurie Sheridan

Laurie Sheridan, a resident of Wantagh and teacher in the North Merrick School District was honored by Town Councilman Chris Carini, County Legislator Michael Giangregoio and State Sen. Steve Rhoads on the occasion of her retirement after 20 years of service. The celebration took place at Bar Grazie in Bellmore.

Carvel has a ‘grand’ reopening

Town Councilman Chris Carini attended the grand reopening of Carvel, located on Bedford Avenue in Bellmore. He was joined by Melissa and Dan Errante, Amanda Ali, Yasmine Espinosa, Randy Wickramsinghe, Nassau County Legislator Tom McKevitt and Joe Baker.

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

LAKESIDE THEATRE CONCERTS

Depression: An equal opportunity illness

People often think if only I was successful and had no money worries, I’d be the happiest person on earth. Yet, you can have fame, fortune, friends, a loving family and still be depressed. Those with wealth and status are not immune to depression. Indeed, they may even be more prone to it.

Why should this be so? The adage that money doesn’t buy happiness is true — unless you’re desperately poor. Then reaching a basic standard of living does lead to reduced stress and worries that can increase the chance for happiness. However, having money is no protection from becoming depressed.

But how then can people who have everything be depressed? What could be their problem? Like many things in life, it’s complicated.

■ You may present a joyous spirit when you’re with others, yet be plagued with feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy when you’re alone.

SATURDAY | JULY 8 | 8:00PM

FREE ADMISSION | Parking Field #6 | Bring Chairs

All concerts 8:00-10:00pm unless otherwise noted. All events weather permitting, call 516-572-0201 for up to date information.

that you’re depressed. How can you complain of feeling down, worthless or guilty when you’re an icon of success to many others? Hence, you mask your depression with alcohol, drugs and/or fast living, waving off others’ concerns about how you’re living life.

If you’re a highly functional person, it’s difficult to humble yourself to seek help, especially when waves of depression eventually pass. It’s tough to admit that you think about killing yourself when so many others look up to you.

Person to Person

But depression is an illness not only reserved for the rich and famous; it’s an equal-opportunity illness that expresses itself in different ways. You may not be able to get out of bed in the morning, or you may not be able to stay calm enough to get into bed at night. You may be quite well off financially, or you may be struggling to pay the bills.

■ You may be flexible with many ideas, yet remain rigid about detesting your deficiencies and defects.

■ You may be creative with finding solutions to other people’s problems, but be blind to finding solutions to your own problems.

■ You may be amusing and entertaining at social gatherings, yet be unable to talk yourself out of feeling depressed when you’re alone.

■ You can appreciate the adoration you receive, yet be fearful about letting others down.

■ You can enjoy everything you have, yet expect more from yourself because of all you have.

When you’re living in a rarified atmosphere, it’s hard to admit or recognize

The bottom line… if you’re depressed, it’s vital that you seek treatment. If you suspect that a friend or family member might be depressed, open up a respectful dialogue. Listen to what s/he says. Suggest treatment if you suspect depression. That’s a far better alternative than one evening receiving that dreadful, terrifying call that will haunt you for the rest of your days.

“Every man has his secret sorrows which the world knows not; and often times we call a man cold when he is only sad.”

–Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ©2023

Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives and overcome procrastination and fear. Contact her at DrSapadin@aol.com. Visit her website at www.PsychWisdom.com.

neighbors in the news

Fire District receives generous voucher

The Bellmore Fire District was presented with a $50,000 voucher from County Legislator Michael Giangregorio on June 11 to procure new pagers for the department.

These pagers, as Legislator Giangregorio said, “help firefighters respond to jobs faster and allow them to get organized more efficiently at the scene of a fire.”

The Bellmore Fire District has provided dedicated, 24/7 protection for the surrounding four-mile-radius of residents, businesses, and property since its establishment in 1897 as a volunteer fire department.

These pagers will be crucial to allow the firefighters to efficiently do their selfless job of keeping the public safe.

Linda Sapadin

STEPPING OUT

Cruising through summer OysterBay welcomes back

By Will Sheeline

Car shows are a summertime staple. You’ll find them most everywhere.

Cold Beer on a Saturday Night

STEPPING OUT

One that certainly attracts attention — from locals and car enthusiasts from all over — is Cruise Night. The most popular car show on the North Shore is back, and folks from across Long Island have begun making their weekly pilgrimage to Oyster Bay each Tuesday to enjoy the sights and sounds of cars from every decade.

Creative advocacy

A vast range of vehicles are on display, from Ford Model Ts to 1960s Thunderbirds and exotic Maseratis and Lamborghinis. According to George Hanley — who has participated with his 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 for more than a decade — it’s not just the cars that draw people, but the sense of community among the car lovers that makes Cruise Night unique.

“The cars are a good reason, but the old friends are also a fun thing to run into,” Hanley says. “It’s a nice night. It’s not rowdy. It’s a real good old-fashioned car show.”

Wandering through Audrey Avenue in the heart of the hamlet is something to behold. Visitors are surrounded by the beautifully refurbished and lovingly cared-for cars, with bright paint jobs and popped hoods. The aromas of beer from the local brewery and cigar smoke waft over. Music played on the street lends a lively backdrop.

The event, organized weekly by the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Chamber of Commerce, also puts the lovely and historic hamlet on display. From the classic architecture and smalltown feel, to the numerous restaurants and stores of all sorts, Cruise Night offers car enthusiasts — and those who drop by — to check out the scene. Not just the vintage cars, but an opportunity to enjoy the many amenities Oyster Bay has to offer.

By Karen Bloom

WHERE WHEN

• Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, South Campus, Hempstead. For information and to RSVP, call (516) 463-5672, or visit Hofstra.edu/museum

Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines power of the arts in society.

Whether you want to take a break from the heat and pop into Theodore’s Books to browse their wide collection, or get a bite to eat at local favorites like Taby’s Diner or 2 Spring, the evening is not just a celebration of great cars, but a showcase of Oyster Bay itself. Ravin Chetram, vice president of the Oyster Bay-East Norwich chamber, says it doesn’t just put the hamlet on the map, but strengthens the many local businesses by drawing crowds to the community.

Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence. the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to which runs through July 28, is in conjunction with Hofstra’s conference on the Barack Obama presidency coming up in April. interested in the idea that the artist has a civic responsibility,” says Karen Albert. “The initial idea for this exhibition was inspired by Administration White House briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, 60 artists and creative organizers met with administration officials to collective power of the arts to build community, create change, and chart national recovery in the areas of social justice, civic participation and unlike other recent exhibits that showcased the museum’s collection, Giordano reached out to contemporary artists who loaned selected works. Some 36 pieces are on view — representing Emma Amos, Molly Crabapple and the Equal Justice Initiative, Miguel Luciano, Michele Pred, Hank Willis Thomas, and Sophia climate is now, this exhibit could not be more timely than Albert adds. highlights, she points to the series of prints from the Freedoms. Their four large scale photos are based on 1943 oil paintings inspired by President Franklin D.

“It’s such a great event, it really brings people out to enjoy Oyster Bay

Pat McGann

during the summer,” Chetram says. “Cruise Night is just one of those things that makes our community so special.”

This year also marks the first time that Cruise Night is partnering with Rallye BMW, which has taken on a more active role in the hamlet since the recent closure of Oyster Bay BMW. Nick Soldo, Rallye’s senior client advisor, and his team are on-site, pleased to be involved with the community.

“We’re here for everybody,” Soldo says.

“We want to make a bigger presence in Oyster Bay for both the clients of BMW, and the residents of Oyster Bay.”

Top: Debbie Dugan and her 19-year old dog Sammy drove from Glen Head in her 1951 Chevy pick-up.

Bottom left: Danny Grella, right, and his son Donato came out from Glen Cove and had a great time at Cruise Night.

Bottom right: Cruise Night is Shangri-la for car enthusiasts.

Pat McGann is quickly rising as one of the sharpest stand-ups on the comedy scene. A relative latecomer to comedy, he began doing standup at 31 after realizing he was not very good at selling packaging. He hustled his way to become the house emcee at Zanies Chicago, where he distinguished himself as especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father of three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage. In 2017, McGann began touring as the opening act for Sebastian Maniscalco, moving with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square Garden. McGann’s relatively short, but impressive resume, includes Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival, and more. McGann still calls Chicago home.

It’s always 5 p.m., somewhere, so get into the vibe with Jimmy Kenny and his band. They’Il provide the soundtrack for an evening of summer fun, playing the best of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown, as well as country favorites, summer pop, yacht rock, reggae, and tropical classics. The Long Island-based band has been delighting audiences with their beach country sounds for more than 12 years. Popular up and down the Northeast coast — from Maine to Maryland — their appealing mix of singalong hits and feel-good, easy living vibes always gets everyone in the groove. Get that ‘toe-in-thesand while wasting away with a margarita’ feeling and party on with Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn) on lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios on lead guitar and backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp on keyboards and backing vocals, drummer Mike Vecchione, and Dan Prine on bass.

BALDWIN HERALD — February 9, 2023

Saturday, July 8, 8 p.m. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Kim Mancuso/Herald photos

Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Yarn/Wire

Now in its 18th year, Adelphi University’s ‘new music’ series welcomes Yarn/Wire. The intrepid New York-based piano-percussion quartet has forged a singular path with endlessly inventive collaborations, commissions and performances that have made a significant contribution to the canon of experimental works. The quartet features founding member Laura

Swingtime Big Band

Those vibrant sounds of the swing era can be heard at the Madison Theatre, when Swingtime returns with another high-octane concert. Since their 2012 debut performance here, Swingtime is proud to have become known as the Madison’s ‘house band.’ Their ‘homecoming’ includes a host of swingin’ hits from the Great American Songbook — all connected to the concept of ‘home.’ The band expertly recreates the music of Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Harry James, and Gene Krupa, along with their engaging vocalists saluting such legendary singers as Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Nat King Cole, Dean Martin, and the immortal Frank Sinatra.

Swingtime maintains its tradition of celebrating the 100th birthdays of the iconic musicians who created this quintessential American art form — their 2023 centennial spotlight is on the amazing trumpeter, composer/ arranger and bandleader Thad Jones.

Sunday, July 9, 3 p.m. $30-$40. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. MadisonTheatrenNY.org or call (516) 323-4444.

Barger and Julia Den Boer on

change the world? It’s a question at the focus of our collective centuries. Now as society the complexities of modern life, path for social change is at the artistic expression.

THE Your Neighborhood

Those disco nights

Get your boogie on with The Disco Nights, appearing on The Paramount stage, Friday, July 7, 8 p.m.

If you like The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, Chic and the whole Studio 54 soundtrack, you’re going to love The Disco Nights. Everyone will feel like dancing at this tribute to an unforgettable era. Relive those “Saturday Night Fever” moments with this dynamic act, featuring vocalists Alessandra Guercio, Jerome Bell and Adam Bastien from “American Idol” and “The Voice.”

They’re backed by one of the tightest bands around, veterans of the New York City music scene. The band includes Musical Director and Billboard charting superstar JJ Sansaverino on guitar, Stanley Banks on the bass, Etienne Lytle and Patrick Firth on the keys, Damon DueWhite on the drums, and Danny Sadownick on percussion. Throw on top of that a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props and costumes — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. The beat goes on and on, with overthe-top renditions of the decade’s most vibrant songs as Studio 54 comes to life once more. $35, $30, $25, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Art talk

Join Nassau County Museum Director Charles A. Riley II, PhD, for a Director’s Seminar, Sunday, July 9, 3 p.m.

He’ll discuss “Oscar Wilde: The Critic and His Artists,” examining the endlessly fascinating author who was connected to a glittering circle of artists. His friends included Toulouse-Lautrec (who painted his portrait on the eve of his legal demise), the Pre-Raphaelites BurneJones, Morris and Millais, Whistler and Sargent (his neighbors on Tite Street in London’s Chelsea), and the naughty prodigy Aubrey Beardsley. Participation is limited; registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s exhibition, “Eye And Mind: The Shin Collection,” highlights the extraordinary collection masterworks assembled by 31-year-old connoisseur Hong Gyu Shin, an internationally recognized figure in the global art world. He shares his treasures, including works by Whistler, Lautrec, Boucher, Daumier, Delacroix, Klimt, Schiele, Balthus, Warhol, de Kooning, Gorky and many other important names from art history provocatively juxtaposed with the painting and sculpture of our own time from both Asia and the West. On view through July 9. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

SENIOR SUMMER CONCERTS

Splish Splash… Animal Baths

Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents,” Saturday, July 8, 1:30-2 p.m. Join an animal educator in the Yellow Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animals. Observe animal bath time. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

Class Reunion

Sanford H. Calhoun High School is holding a multiyear reunion for the classes of 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973 and 1974 at the Uniondale Marriot, Sept. 30, beginning at 7 p.m. 101 James Doolittle Blvd, Uniondale. Visit bit.ly/ Calhoun-Reunion, or email calhounreunion2023@gmail. com for more.

Hip Hop Brunch

American Beauty Bar & Grill hosts a hip-hop themed brunch, Sunday, July 9 Reservations are required; you must be 21 or older to attend. No cover charge. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., event begins at noon. 2562 Sunrise Highway, Bellmore. Call (516) 541-1075.

Moonlight Mile

EliteFeats hosts a Moonlight Mile at Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore at 6:30 p.m., on Aug. 11. The event will take place rain or shine, and runners can get a soft, glow in the dark t-shirt. Participate as a race or walk.$25 registration fee. 2600 Newbridge Road, Bellmore. Visit Events.EliteFeats.com for more information.

July 7

July 8

Family Bat Walk

On stage

Car Show

Friday night car shows with the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores are back. Stop by the Bellmore Long Island Rail Road parking lot, 6 to 10 p.m., to see dozens of cars of all makes and models. Free for spectators to walk through, admission for cars is $5. For more, visit BellmoreChamber.com.

Having an event?

Stroll Old Westbury Gardens with Gabriel Willow, a New York Citybased urban naturalist and environmental educator, Saturday, July 8, 7:309:30 p.m. He will lead a walk through the gardens to listen and look for bats while discussing bat ecology and conservation. All ages are welcome. Space is limited and reservations are required. Rain date is Saturday, July 15. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.

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.

Plaza Theatricals brings the iconic musical “Rent,” back to the stage, Friday, July 21, 7:30 p.m. The acclaimed reimagining of “La Vie Boheme,” loosely based on Puccini’s opera and set on East Village streets, fire escapes, tenements, and cafes. This groundbreaking roller coaster ride depicting the joys and sorrows of an eclectic, diverse group of young artists and activists is always captivating. It’s performed at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $35, $30 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

July 27

Mindful mornings

Practice the “art” of looking at art at Nassau County Museum of Art, Thursday, July 27, 10-11 a.m., with NCMA Director of Education Laura Lynch. Mindful looking invites you to observe, question, and calmly reflect in a relaxed and supportive environment free of distraction. It’s an opportunity to experience and enjoy the art in the galleries or sculpture garden, together, making personal connection. $10. Space is limited and registration required. Also Aug. 3. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Friday Film

See “Once,” a 2007 Irish romantic musical drama written and directed by John Carney, at Merrick Library, Friday, July 7, 1 p.m. A Dublin street busker (and vacuum repairman) is charmed by an immigrant Czech pianist. 2279 Merrick Ave., Merrick. For more, go to MerrickLibrary.org.

Dan Reardon at the Clubhouse

The Clubhouse in Bellmore offers performances by local musicians all summer long. Stop by to hear the sounds of Dan Reardon, Thursday, July 27. 134 Clubhouse Road, Bellmore. For tickets and more information, visit BandsInTown.com.

To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!

To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!

To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!

Provided as a community service by this civic minded publication in conjunction with the Association of Community Publishers and Community Papers of Michigan

Provided as a community service by this civic minded publication in conjunction with the Association of Community Publishers and Community Papers of Michigan

Provided as a community service by this civic minded publication in conjunction with the Association of Community Publishers and Community Papers of Michigan

Sc H ool S

Mepham assistant principal receives tech award

andrew Del Rosario, one of the assistant principals at Wellington C. Mepham High School in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, has been named a Nassau Association of School Technologists award recipient.

The recipients are chosen for their innovation, their ability to seamlessly integrate technology, and for their exemplary technology leadership.

Del Rosario is a founding member of the district’s technology integration mentor program.

In this role he oversees both the technology integration mentor and technology support teams, and has been instrumental in the overall success of many district initiatives, including but not limited to: 1:1 rollout, transition to Infinite Campus and Google Workspace for Education, cybersecurity and Ed-Law 2D, Achieve3000, BYOD, and the award-winning Mepham HS Broadcasting program.

“Mr. Del Rosario always embraces the many challenges that come along with the everchanging digital age, viewing it as a means to professional growth,” said Joseph Innaco, the

with Michael and Suzanne Ettinger Attorneys-at-Law

Taking Back Control with a Living Trust

In the fall of 1990, some thirty plus years ago, your writer first heard of the proposition that if you set up a living trust your estate doesn’t have to go to court to settle – the so-called probate court proceeding for wills. Having spent the previous eleven years as a litigation attorney, and having faced numerous problems probating wills, this sounded too good to be true.

At the time, some of the best estate planning lawyers were in Florida. Perhaps you can guess why. In any event, off I went to Florida to train as an estate planning lawyer and, upon returning, closed the litigation practice and founded Ettinger Law Firm in April 1991, to keep people just like you, dear reader, out of probate court.

The reason I was so excited about the living trust, and continue to be so to this day, is the concept of taking back control from the courts and government and giving it back to you and your family. After all, who doesn’t want control over their affairs?

When you go to court, who’s in charge? The judge, right? Now tell me, does the judge always act in your best interest? Does the judge ever make a mistake? And when the judge says jump, you know what the answer is!

Not only do you pay considerably for this privilege, but it can take many months and often years to complete the probate court proceeding. Meantime, houses cannot be sold, bank accounts accessed, or investment portfolios managed – at least without the judge’s permission which involves additional time and resources to request. Of course, that permission may be denied as well.

With a living trust, your trustee (formerly your “executor” under the will) may act immediately upon death to sell the house, pay the bills and handle the investments – no permission required! An additional benefit is, in the event you become unable to handle your affairs later in life, your trustee may take over by simply getting a letter from your doctor showing you are incapacitated. Essentially then, a living trust gives you back control.

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District arrington, superintendent of schools, Board President Nina Lanci, Andrew Del Rosario, Anthony DeMartinis, principal of Mepham High School and Joseph Innaco, the director of administrative & instructional technology and data protection

Garbarino aims new bill at boating safety

U.S. Representative Andrew Garbarino, who represents New York’s second congressional district — one of the four districts on Long Island — has introduced a bill to help ensure the safety of boaters on and around Long Island.

The legislation, called the Brianna Lieneck Boating Safety Act of 2023, directs the United States Coast Guard to study and submit to Congress a report on recreational vessel operator education and training in order to improve boating safety and reduce the number of boating accidents that occur due to untrained boat operators.

The bill is named in honor of an 11-year-old girl — Brianna Lieneck — who was killed in a boating accident in 2005, when a boat driven by Steven Fleisher collided with Lieneck’s family’s boat in the Great South Bay. According to a news release from Garbarino’s office, Fleisher did not have a boating license when the event occurred. Brianna’s mother, Gina Lieneck, was injured in the accident and has since advocated for mandatory licenses for boaters.

“Many Long Islanders spend their summers enjoying boating and other water activities, but if we don’t proactively prioritize safety that’s when tragedies, like the one that befell the Lieneck family, happen,” Rep. Garbarino said in a statement. “According to a 2020 USCG report, boat operators who did not receive boat

77% of fatal recreational boating accidents nationwide. The Brianna Lieneck Boating Safety Act of 2023 will help eliminate these incidents and keep boaters on Long Island and around the country safe through education and training programs.”

According to Coast Guard statistics, there have been over 6000 boating deaths between 2012 and 2021, averaging between

Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, a former police officer and firefighter who represents New York’s fourth congressional district, has cosponsored the bill.

“Boating has long been a favorite pastime of Long Islanders as well as Americans across the country, and it is imperative that the federal government does more to ensure the safety of boaters,” Rep. D’Esposito said. “Regretfully, we

deaths caused by boaters operating vessels under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In light of this history of tragedies, I am proud to co-sponsor the Brianna Lieneck Boating Safety Act of 2023, legislation that musters the capabilities of the federal government to review the current landscape of boater education programs which is an important step towards improving the programs and enhancing safety on the water.”

Rep. Nick LaLota, a Navy veteran who represents the first congressional district, also cosponsored the bill.

“As a Navy man, boater, and Long Islander, I understand that increasing boating education and safety training will go a long way to preventing injuries and fatalities like what happened to Brianna Lieneck,” Rep. LaLota said. “Our legislation will save lives and ensure that families can safely enjoy our waters. I am proud to join my Long Island colleagues in introducing this bill to keep more Americans safe.”

Elements of the bill would require the secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to study and report to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure as well as the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation regarding recreational vessel operator training.

The full text of Rep. Garbarino’s bill can be found at tinyurl.com/GarbarinoBoatingBill.

Michael Malaszczyk/Herald file photo

Rep. AndRew GARbARino, second from left, has introduced a bill — named for the young victim of a 2005 boating accident — aimed at boating safety education and training. His colleagues, Reps. Nick Lalota, far left, and Anthony D’Esposito, far right, have cosponsored the bill.

well-being of others.

One of the best. Once again. Right here in Oceanside.

High Performing in Nine Areas of Care

Freedom and fanfare at Eisenhower Park

The sky above Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre was aglow on July 1 as thousands of people enjoyed the annual TD Bank “Celebrate America” event.

Visitors young and old donning red, white and blue all comfortable on their respective blankets or chairs enjoyed the show leading up the pyrotechnic spectacle put on by Fireworks by Grucci.

Fireworks by Grucci dates back to 1850 in Italy, when the family began experimenting with pyrotechnics. The Gruccis brought the company to Elmont after immigrating to the U.S. in 1870.

As a new edition, the prelude included a drone and laser light show. Different shapes were displayed in the sky, much to everyone’s amazements. The nights tunes were brought to attendees by the winner of the county’s recently concluded Battle of the Bands competition, Pete Mancini and the Hillside Airmen.

After the show everyone turned their attention to the sky to see colorful bombs explode in the sky as America marks another year.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY 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 at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on July 19, 2023 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. 140107

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF UPLAND MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST A, Plaintiff against LAWRENCE PESCE, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 22, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 25, 2023

at 2:30 PM. Premises known as 2726 Clarendon Avenue, Bellmore, NY 11710. Sec 56 Block 345

Lot 57,58,59. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate

Amount of Judgment is $511,724.23 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 005308/2013. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Jennifer Ettenger, Esq., Referee CARN298 140301

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. ELSIE ARCOS, et al, Defts., Index #611979/2021. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered March

7, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on August 2, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 63, Block 205, Lot 185. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale. FAY MATTANA, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #100505 140414

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the fiscal affairs of the Bellmore Fire District for the period beginning on January 1, 2022 and ending on December 31, 2022, have been examined by an independent public accountant, Craig, Fitzsimmons & Meyer, LLP and that the report of the external audit by the independent public accountant has been filed with the New York State Office of the State Comptroller and the Town of Hempstead where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons. John M. Fabian, Secretary Board of Fire Commissioner Bellmore Fire District 140522

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Thousands of visiTors made their way to Eisenhower Park on July 1 to listen to some good tunes put on by Pete Mancini and the Hillside Airmen and see some colorful fireworks.

dylan Palha, above, 5, with his siblings Liam, 10, and Natalie, 6, of Seaford enjoyed the show.

Meghan McginTy froM Brentwood and Aiden Colbert from North Babylon were not messing around with their patriotism for this Fourth of July celebration.

Siberlaw@aol.com

To Arrange For An Interview

BOOKKEEPER/ OFFICE MANAGER: Small Merrick CPA Firm Seeks PT Bookkeeper/ Office Manager 4 Mornings/ Week.

Individual Must Have Knowledge Of Payroll

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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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

The Merrick Before/After School Program is preparing for the 2023-24 school year. We require mature individuals to provide quality care to elementary

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What to do with a funky addition?

Q. We’ve been homeowners for three years, and from Day One we wanted to open the kitchen to this strange back room that steps down and has two different roofs with different angles. The room steps down from the kitchen, and then steps down again to the second half. Both roofs are very low pitched, with low ceilings, and we want to change the addition so we can make the kitchen bigger, and have an island and one floor level for everything. We have a lot of questions, like whether we need a permit (because the seller already got one), whether we can raise the roof to be close to the upstairs windows, how close we can go, and whether you would recommend a deck and sliding glass doors, or a patio with concrete stairs to the backyard?

A. It sounds like a mishmash of ideas and avoiding a professional went into this addition to begin with. It also sounds like the two rooms were built at different times, with different roofs. Saving money means doing things twice, and you’ll definitely need a permit for the work.

The roofs have to come off, and I generally try to keep the roof approximately six inches below the window trim or frame. The key is to avoid average snow buildup at the windows, while allowing for snow clearing if the windows start to be blocked by deeper snow. Usually, snow will melt from heat escape at the windows, but deeper snow will turn to ice, and freeze you in from emergency escape, and create the potential for water leakage at the windowsill when the ice melts.

The foundation should be checked by digging at a corner to see if the foundation wall is at least to the frost line at three feet deep. If it isn’t, as part of the cheaply built construction you described, you may need to rebuild the entire addition. Not having a deep enough foundation will lead to movement that presents cracking where the one-story portion meets the two-story building.

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The low-sloped roofs also present problems that must be prevented. Roofs should be sloped as much as possible to facilitate better rain runoff, and if a roof is below a 2-inch-high to 12-inch-horizontal ratio, referred to as a “2 in 12 pitch,” you’ll need a commercial membrane roll roof. This means that roofing material that comes in 3-foot-wide rolls, not regular shingles, must be used. The code is the bare minimum requirement, and I recommend not using shingles at less than 3 in 12 pitch, and even then putting down a self-adhering, flexible roof membrane, often referred to as ice and water shield, although that’s actually the name of a product made by W.R. Grace.

Work with an architect or engineer. Get the project done professionally with permits. I’ll have more about door sizes and decks vs. patios next week. Good luck!

© 2023 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.

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How many ways can the Mets disappoint us?

Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan famously said that “being Irish means knowing that somewhere, somehow, the world is going to break your heart.”

The sports world equivalent of this Irish fatalism is being a Mets fan. I say this with all the authority of someone who has stood with the Mets since their opening day of spring training in 1962. That inaugural Mets team went on to lose a modern-era record 120 games — a record that still stands, and that was immortalized by New York’s classic wordsmith and blue-collar raconteur, Jimmy Breslin, in his masterful work “Can’t Anybody Here Play This Game?”

In fairness to the ’62 Mets, however, there was no reason to expect an expansion team to do well, since its roster comprised players rejected by all the other teams in the major leagues. Just seven years later, the 1969 Mets, under the leadership of manager Gil Hodges, stunned the baseball world by defeating the heavily favored Baltimore Orioles in the World

Series. A dynasty was born!

Or so Mets fans thought.

Instead, what we hoped would be a dynasty came undone. Johnny Murphy, the Mets’ general manager and the chief architect of the championship team, died of a heart attack in 1970. Then, in April 1972, Hodges, the team’s heart, soul and unquestioned leader, suffered a massive heart attack and died.

Except for a late-season surge that got the Mets into the 1973 World Series, their fans had to endure more than a decade of mediocre, losing baseball. Nothing personified the fans’ frustration and despair during those uninspiring days and years more than the front-office decision in 1976 to trade away Tom Seaver, perhaps the greatest pitcher of his era, for nonentities. That was a white flag of surrender.

Our hopes rose again in the early 1980s, when Frank Cashen took over as general manager, creating an outstanding farm system that produced the likes of Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry, and making trades for future Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter and MVP first baseman Keith Hernandez. This time Mets fans were convinced that a dynasty had been created, as the squad, under

Manager Wally Backman, finished a close second in the National League East in 1985, won a classic World Series over the Red Sox in ’86, finished second again in ’87 and captured a division title in ’88.

But this bubble burst as well, with the precipitous decline of superstars Gooden and Strawberry, brought on by cocaine addiction.

oOur hopes soared yet again in 1992, when the Mets gave mega-dollar contracts to stars including Bobby Bonilla, Vince Coleman, Bret Saberhagen and Eddie Murray. Pre-season experts had the Mets winning it all. Instead, the “Best Team Money Could Buy” failed miserably, winning only 72 games and finishing in fifth place in the NL East.

Fast-forward to 2015 and 2016, when the team assembled a young pitching staff of Matt Harvey, Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard and Steven Matz, which appeared to have unmatched and limitless potential. Once more, we Mets fans were thinking dynasty. Instead, the star hurlers were all beset by arm injuries, and now they are no longer even with the team.

This year it was all going to be different. Building off last season’s 101 wins, owner Steve Cohen added future Hall of

Fame pitcher Justin Verlander to a staff headed by another future Hall shoo-in, Max Scherzer, and the incomparable reliever Edwin Diaz. Combined with slugger Pete Alonso, batting champion Jeff McNeil and established stars Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo and Starling Marte, this seemed to guarantee at least a solid playoff berth, if not a pennant and a World Series title. Expectations were the highest they have been in years.

Instead, Diaz wrecked his knee celebrating a victory by Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, and Verlander and Scherzer were sidelined by injuries, and still aren’t pitching near what was expected of them. The team’s hitting has yet to get untracked, and the bullpen has no depth. Bottom line: As of last Friday, the Mets were in next-to-last place in the N.L. East, 17-1/2 games behind the firstplace Atlanta Braves.

I know the season is barely half over, and miracles happen. But it looks like another disappointing summer ahead of us. How many times can the Mets break their fans’ hearts? Pat Moynihan might as well have been talking about our team. As for me, I’m afraid I’ll never learn. I’m hanging in there.

Let’s go, Mets!

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security.

Malaria, mobs and other travel buzz-kills

Ihave begun to worry about malaria, and I’m taking malaria prophylaxis, even though I’m not about to leave for a safari or the wilds of Myanmar anytime soon.

I’ll wager, right now, that I am the only non-traveling person in our entire reading area who is taking malaria prophylaxis. The disease is not endemic to the U.S., so why take a preventive? (Explanation to follow.)

ly (and this is what got me thinking), there has been serious concern about the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus, a disease the bugs contract from infected birds.

Last week, in an effort to mitigate that threat, Nassau County sprayed vast tracts of the South Shore during the overnight hours. Go, big government!

in hours, and I didn’t get malaria, although I traveled for two more weeks through India. This led me to the logically flawed conclusion that I don’t need protection from malaria.

Randi is on a brief leave. This column was originally published Sept. 4-10, 2014.

RANDI KREISS

Even those who don’t venture beyond the bridges and tunnels, and don’t fancy foreign travel, know there are places in this world where the Anopheles mosquito carries malaria. It threatens 3.4 billion people, half the world’s population, almost all of whom live in developing countries. The disease killed some 650,000 people last year. You get a bite, a few days later your fever spikes and you begin to shake with bone-rattling chills. In many countries, there is no treatment available; people suffer and die.

Here on Long Island, we have relatively benign mosquitoes that crash our backyard barbecues, tormenting those who forget to use repellent. For decades they have been no more than a nuisance. But recent-

In the past, there have actually been small, isolated outbreaks of malaria in the U.S., caused by healthy mosquitoes biting sick people who carried the malaria parasites from their travels. The mosquitoes then bit other humans, spreading the disease. Those outbreaks were all easily contained, because we have a relatively efficient public health system.

While West Nile is a homegrown problem and our government is effectively addressing the threat, malaria is out of control in many areas of India, Southeast Asia and Africa.

We’re planning a trip to India and Africa later this year. Our doctor is adamant about requiring malaria prophylaxis. The best choice is Malarone, he says. Unfortunately, Malarone and I have a history. Several years ago, I took it when I traveled to Cambodia. On the fifth day of taking the pill, I got really sick. I figured it was the pill, and stopped taking it. I felt better with-

The doctor believes I may have gotten sick from something other than the medication. So he suggested I take Malarone for 10 days while I’m home and safe in my own neighborhood. Thus, the malaria prophylaxis. So far, so good. If the test goes well, I’ll take the pills every day during the trip. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even the prophylaxis is only 90 percent effective, and travelers who visit African game parks are advised to wear cover-up clothing and to use repellant with DEET.

All this anticipatory medication has made me rethink the entire enterprise of foreign travel these days, especially to places like India and Africa. Fear of mosquitoes, I realize, is a metaphor for all the dangers of such travel. When I read the newspaper, I realize that malaria is probably the least-worst thing that might happen on a trip to sub-Saharan Africa. Is there a vaccine against al-Shabaab?

It’s easy to make the argument for staying stateside. And some of our friends and

family are urging us to reconsider our plans. Here at home we have clean food, pure water and relatively safe streets. There is good oversight of public services and infrastructure and transportation. Our doctors are well trained and available. There’s no Ebola.

On the other hand, you probably won’t see a rhino in the wild unless you travel, and you definitely won’t see Cape Horn or the lemurs of Madagascar.

I think the desire to travel beyond the I-95 corridor, the willingness to put up with inconvenience and risk and cost and medications, has to do with one’s basic philosophy of life. Or perhaps it’s just foolishness; I’m not sure which. Maybe it even has to do with one’s sense of mortality. We can play it safe, or we can seek out new experiences. I find myself thinking about people who live in Mumbai or Mombasa, and I want to see what their lives look like up close. I want to see the colors of another culture. I want to see the children’s faces.

After all, you and I won’t get to do this dance again. While we’re out on the floor, shouldn’t we kick up our heels?

Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

All this medication has me rethinking the entire enterprise of foreign travel.

nce again, a team with so much promise is near the bottom of the NL East.

Summer traditions aren’t always safe traditions

Fireworks are a fun summer spectacle the whole family can enjoy. Millions across the country gathered to watch these colorful displays light up the night sky last weekend and on Tuesday, and similar shows will continue all summer.

Unlike some other parts of the country, however, New York does not allow the purchase or use of fireworks by anyone who is not a licensed professional with a permit.

Not that this law stops anyone, however. It may be illegal to buy, use, sell or transport fireworks in the state, but it’s not hard to make a quick run to a nearby state like Pennsylvania or Massachusetts, where buying them is legal, and simply bring them back home.

“I know many New Yorkers are eager to celebrate Independence Day this year, but we must ensure our celebrations are safe and fun,” New York Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez has said. “Around this holiday, the biggest threats to safety are very close to home. The Fourth of July is one of the holidays with the highest number of accidents.”

No matter how they’re obtained, these pyrotechnics can be extremely dangerous. Every year, nearly 10,000 people around the country — many between ages 20 and

Our work continues in Albany

To the Editor:

It’s no secret that over the last several years, Albany’s one-party rule has been taking the state in the wrong direction. Higher taxes, increased spending, new mandates, and policies that favor criminals over community safety are just some of the actions forced on Long Islanders by Gov. Kathy Hochul, the New York City politicians who control the State Legislature and their supporters in Albany.

Fighting for our communities and standing up for the issues that matter most to us is exactly why I wanted to serve as a state senator. Throughout the 2023 legislative session, that’s exactly what our team did.

We began the year by introducing the Rescue New York agenda — a comprehensive plan that provides sensible, commonsense solutions to fix the serious problems confronting our state. The plan would make New York safer, stronger, more affordable and more free. It would repeal the disastrous, broken cashless bail law that created a revolving door for criminals and prioritized them over law-abiding residents. It

24 — are treated for fireworks-related injuries. That’s one every hour of every day. The injuries can range from minor to severe burns and lacerations to the loss of limbs and, in rare cases, even death. While the use of firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners and other fireworks is illegal and highly discouraged, there are still far too many people willing to take the risk. That’s why the state’s Division of Consumer Protection advises anyone handling fireworks take necessary safety precautions:

■ Follow instructions on the packaging.

■ Keep a supply of water nearby.

■ Light only one firework at a time.

■ Never attempt to relight a “dud.”

■ Never, under any circumstances, point or throw fireworks toward anything or anyone.

In some parts of the state, groundmounted and handheld sparklers — known for their shower of colored sparks and crackling sound — are permitted outdoors, provided they meet guidelines governing the amount of pyrotechnic material inside. But that doesn’t mean these sparklers are harmless and safe for children to use. They can heat up to 800

degrees — hot enough to melt gold — and can easily set fire to clothing or hair.

In Nassau County, it is illegal to use, possess or sell fireworks — including sparklers. Doing so without a permit can be punishable as a misdemeanor or felony, and can include fines of $1,000 or more, and possibly even jail time.

Not only are fireworks illegal to use and own, but they are also a nuisance for neighbors and pets. Loud noises can traumatize animals, and in some instances even set off car alarms. The incendiary devices can also lead to property damage and fires in addition to injuries.

Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend a summer night in the emergency room — or weeks of the summer in a hospital burn unit. Parents should talk with their children about the hazards that can occur when handling illegal fireworks.

To protect yourself and your family, celebrate responsibly by attending one of the dozens of licensed fireworks displays conducted by professionals across Long Island.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder also remind all of us that in the event that illegal fireworks are taking place in your neighborhood, call your local police precinct.

Threats to LGBTQ crowd loomed large this Pride month

each June, the LGBTQ+ community proudly celebrates our strength, unity and visibility during Pride month. From Hewlett to the Hamptons, Long Islanders joined their LGBTQ+ neighbors once again last month to honor our historic struggle for equality.

As usual, Long Island and New York showed up for Pride, but for many in our community, this year felt different.

A wave of bills targeting our rights have garnered widespread attention and outrage, sparking a dangerous rise in anti-LGBTQ+ incidents locally and nationally. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, nearly 500 such bills have been introduced in state legislatures so far this year.

In contrast, New York leaders are taking meaningful action on behalf of our community. Flanked by queer icons and elected officials from across the state, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation into law that will safeguard protections for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers – just moments

before marching in one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations.

While state leaders remain steadfast in their support, a largely unknown fight over our rights is currently playing out in federal courts, and it could have a devastating impact on the health of LGBTQ+ people here on Long Island.

In March, a decision by a federal judge in Texas, in Braidwood Management v. Becerra, ripped away nocost preventive health care from over 150 million Americans. If the decision is allowed to stand, health insurers will no longer be required to cover preventive screenings for serious conditions including HIV, cancer and heart disease.

In particular, the decision struck down access to PrEP, a life-saving medication that reduces the risk of contracting HIV from sex by 99 percent. PrEP is a key prevention strategy for ending the HIV epidemic in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Siding with the plaintiffs — a group of anti-LGBTQ+ business owners — the judge found that the Affordable Care Act’s coverage of PrEP violates religious freedom, which will allow individual

insurers to deny access to it.

The Braidwood ruling came a month before the entire Long Island congressional delegation voted for a default plan that could have put 2.3 million New Yorkers at risk of losing access to Medicaid.

Both the Braidwood decision and the nation’s neardefault on its debt make clear that Long Islanders’ care is under attack. Unfortunately, when given the chance to show independence and protect vital health services, U.S. Reps. George Santos, Anthony D’Esposito, Nick LaLota and Andrew Garbarino instead fell in line with the House leadership’s devastating proposal.

This is a critical moment for the LGBTQ+ community, and the changes brought on by Braidwood present an existential crisis. Our community is disproportionately affected by HIV infections. Researchers at the Yale School of Public Health found that the ruling could result in more than 2,000 entirely preventable HIV infections in the next year.

Here on Long Island, access to PrEP is crucial. Recent reports show that Nassau and Suffolk counties have the highest suburban rates of HIV infection in the state. A staggering 5,300 Long Islanders

Letters Framework

would also cut taxes for residents, control state spending, and create jobs by improving New York’s worst-in-the-nation business climate.

This plan is essential to change many of the factors that are leading New York in the wrong direction — reckless criminal justice policies, runaway spending, and high taxes — and we will continue to fight for its passage.

We protected our suburban quality of life and worked in a bipartisan manner to defeat Hochul’s plan to override local zoning laws and force the construction of high-density, highrise housing within a half-mile radius of Long Island Rail Road stations. Under this proposal, residents of single-family would have seen apartment buildings put up next to their houses, eliminating our communities’ ability to determine for themselves how they grow, and virtually destroying the suburban character of our neighborhoods — the very reason many of us decided to live here in the first place.

Faced with the latest state budget in 13 years and spending that has increased by 35 percent under one-party rule in just five years, we spoke out, and voted against some other completely misguided proposals that are moving the state in the wrong direction, including Hochul’s plan to ban natural gas in newly constructed homes; congestion pricing, which is just another tax on commuters; the Clean Slate Act, which enables convicted felons to hide their criminal backgrounds; public financing of campaigns; legislation providing free health care benefits to illegal immigrants; and radical changes in election laws and the way Long Islanders cast their votes in local elections.

We continued the fight for more affordable water for South Shore residents by introducing legislation to provide state funding for the South Nassau Water Authority to fulfill its mission to study, negotiate and report on a possible transition from Liberty Water, a private, for-profit company, to public water so voters can make an informed decision — just as the

by Tim Baker

live with an HIV/AIDS diagnosis.

If the Braidwood ruling is allowed to stand, many LGBTQ+ Long Islanders, especially those struggling to make ends meet, people of color and people with disabilities, will instead decide to forgo basic preventive services like PrEP simply because they can no longer afford them. While 66 percent of eligible white people in America are prescribed PrEP, just 16 percent of eligible Hispanics and 9 percent of eligible Blacks are prescribed the lifesaving drug. The Braidwood ruling will inevitably worsen existing disparities in New York and on Long Island.

Legal experts have highlighted that the Braidwood case was brought on by opponents of the ACA. Despite 79 percent of Americans supporting no-cost preventive care, Republicans in Congress continue to wage a war against the ACA, even as 214,000 New Yorkers rely on it.

On Long Island, we need Santos, D’Esposito, Garbarino and LaLota to stand up against this dangerous and deeply unpopular ruling. If they don’t, LGBTQ+ Long Islanders and our families will have to fight for our right to access life-saving health care next Pride Month.

David Kilmnick, Ph.D., is the president and founder of the New York LGBT Network, and assistant professor and chair of the Online MSW Program at the University of South Florida.

state is already providing for the North Shore Water Authority for the same purpose.

We successfully delivered-much needed funding for local food banks to address food insecurity in our communities, a serious problem that is being worsened by sky-high inflation that is driving up food prices.

These are just a few of the actions we took this year

to put our state back on the right track. The session may be over, but our work isn’t done. We will continue standing up for the issues that matter most to our communities and hard-working taxpayers.

Rhoads, a Republican, represents the 5th Senate District

our state leaders are supportive, but it’s another story in the federal courts.

DaViD kiLmniCk

STATE SEN. STEVE RHOADS