East Meadow Herald 02-15-2024

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District settles confusion over strategic plan ner addressed the concerns that arose after Hanover’s presentation last month. Part of the The East Meadow Union problem, he said, was that it was led by account executives.

Free School District Board of “We should have had the Education approved a resolution last month to partner with actual researchers here — they Hanover Research, a global were not able to come, and we were on a time coninformation service straint,” Rosner fir m, to help the s a i d . “A n d yo u district develop a know, you can put strategic plan that that on me, but the will guide it toward account executives excellence, innovashould not be pretion and inclusivity. senting something After a presentalike this. I want to tion with the firm work with people on Jan. 22, however, who are experts in attendees — includthis field, and I am ing several board confident that peomembers — were ple I’ve met with left with more quesvia Zoom are the tions than answers KENNEtH RoSNER right people for as to why a partner- Superintendent, this. It wasn’t the ship with Hanover East Meadow Union account executives was necessary.

Free School District there.”

And at a school When the execuboard meeting on Feb. 7 in the Salisbury Center, tives were unable to adequately several trustees not only voiced answer questions from commutheir concerns, but also with- nity members at last month’s drew their support for working presentation, Rosner joined with the research firm because them in front of the crowd to of their dissatisfaction with the try and explain things better.

“I think that a lot of the coninitial presentation.

Among other agenda items fusion is based upon a very during the meeting, district poor presentation from the Superintendent Kenneth RosContinued on page 5

By JoRDAN VAlloNE

jvallone@liherald.com

I

Mike Monahan/Herald

Violinist wows crowds in East Meadow Violinist Ariel Horowitz took to the stage at the East Meadow Public Library on Feb. 11, dazzling crowds with her passionate take on classical music. Story, more photos, Page 3.

Elected officials lead seminar that focuses on scam safety

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

As scammers develop newer and more advanced methods of stealing from the vulnerable, elected officials are urging community members to learn how to identify scams.

At Scam Prevention Seminar last month at the Levittown Public Library, which included experts from the Nassau County Police Department and representatives of victim services organizations.

They spoke to attendees about how to identify and report a scam, as well as how to recover from one.

Several state and county representatives sponsored the event, including Sen. Steve Rhoads, who

said that as technology has grown more sophisticated, scammers have found new ways to deceive people into giving them their personal information, and making off with their money.

“Scam-prevention seminars are crucial in today’s digital age to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves from falling victim to scams,” Rhoads said. “It also provides a platform for individuals to ask questions, build a network of support, and educate others about the importance of scam awareness and prevention.”

Several elected officials spoke to the attendees about the importance of identifying scams.

Continued on page 4

think an outside lens looking at our data, guiding us so there are no blind spots, is essential.

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

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Planning begins to upgrade electrical grid

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

With a $3.26 billion investment, New York Transco and the New York Power Authority unveiled details of its Propel NY Energy project, aimed to fortify Long Island’s power grid by potentially bringing new underground electrical transmission and substations to Nassau County.

The Long Island Association’s offshore wind committee hosted a discussion last week in Melville, with topics ranging from electrical grid reliability improvements to potential traffic disruptions caused by the work to make it happen.

Propel NY represents a step toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Nassau County and the wider region. After last year’s competitive bid process in 2023, the New York Independent System Operator — which monitors the reliability of the state’s power system — threw its support behind Propel NY, which is now entering the permitting process. Regulated by Article VII of the New York Public Service Law, the regulatory framework emphasizes environmental impacts, ensuring community involvement.

“We want to make sure that we’re all working together … to make sure that effective outreach and communication is happening throughout the process,” said Carrie Gallagher, the Long Island office director for the state’s public service department.

That means bringing together not only the Long Island Power Authority and PSEG Long Island, but also the public service department, Transco, and the power authority.

Propel NY aims to bolster the reliability and resiliency of the Long Island power grid, according to officials. That means adding what they are calling bi-

Courtesy Propel NY

Propel NY Energy — which plans to invest billions in a project burying 90 miles of electrical transmission lines — will discuss exactly where those lines will go in detail with affected communities, residents and businesses. directional power flows from Long Island into the statewide grid through 90 miles of new transmission pathways. The goal is to transmit up to 3,000 megawatts of energy from offshore wind projects that could power hundreds, if not thousands, of homes.

An estimated 66 miles of the new underground distribution lines will run across Nassau County, with less than two miles planned for Suffolk.

That includes several separate high-voltage cables from Melville, Island Park, Syosset, Uniondale and Glenwood Landing in Oyster Bay that then would

extend under the East River to the Bronx and the Long Island Sound toward Westchester. The bidirectional line — meaning power will flow in both directions — will help accommodate the influx of renewable energy from offshore wind farms, officials said, with construction expected to begin in 2026, continue on until mid-2030.

Residents, according to power authority vice president Girish Behal, will be “impacted the most by traffic and all the construction that happens. But, in addition to that, it’s also the local government and community groups that have an impact on the project.”

Propel NY got the go-ahead to begin groundwork needed for construction this past June.

The state’s Public Service Commission approved Transco’s plan to borrow as much as $1.4 billion to build power lines. Propel NY looks to harness various clean energy sources — particularly offshore wind — reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainability, officials said.

A key purpose of the project., they add, is the need for upgrades to accommodate renewable energy sources like offshore wind, while discussing the current sources of electricity on Long Island and the transition toward offshore wind as a significant clean energy source.

“By 2030, 50 percent of our power will come from one source: offshore wind,” said Tom Falcone, the Long Island Power Authority’s chief executive. “Right now, it’s practically zero.”

Half of the 10 turbines already built are now operating, he said, with two more expected be added to the overall total by March.

At that time, “the first offshore wind project in federal waters will be operational,” Falcone said, “but it’s the first of thousands. And it’s coming very soon.”

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EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024 Mike Monahan/Herald photos

The auditorium of the library was filled with eager listeners, who came out to see an excellent show filled with well known songs and original compositions.

Ariel Horowitz, and more, at the library

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Classical music fans reunited at the East Meadow Public Library this past weekend for another star studded show with violinist Ariel Horowitz. She’s been hailed by the Washington Post as “sweetly lyrical” and her performance was no short of just that. Playing a blend of classic compositions, as well as some original music, the packed audience at the library was left moved by her work on stage.

A graduate of the Yale School of Music, Horowitz won the Concert Artists Guild Ambassadors Prize in October of 2020, and officially joined the Concert Artists Guild Roster. She’s previously studied with affiliates of the Julliard School, and in the fall of 2019, she joined the faculty of Mount Holyoke College, where she teaches violin and chamber music.

The East Meadow library is no stranger to hosting performances in a wide variety of genres. There’s a concert scheduled nearly every Sunday in the auditorium of the library, which presents a vast amount of space and ample seating, in order to accommodate attendees and performers. Whether it’s rock and roll, children’s tunes or classical music, there’s something for everyone on the line up. Just last month, the library hosted Nina Bernat, an accomplished double basist, and pianist Jiarong Li. Among Horowitz’s accomplishments, she’s the founder and artistic director of the Heartbeat Music Project, a tuition-free program that provides instruments, music and Navajo cultural knowledge to young people living in the Navajo nation, according to her website ArielHorowitz.com. The project has amassed a lot of attention, and even garnered some prizes and grants, including the Lewis Prize for Music Covid-19 community response fund, the Mockingbird Foundation Prize, the From the Top

Ariel Horowitz is the founder of the Heartbeat Music Project, a tuition-free program that provides instruments, music and Navajo cultural knowledge to young people living in the Navajo nation.

There’s no shortage of concerts ever in East Meadow. The library hosts one nearly every Sunday, appealing to a broad range of genres.

Alumni Leadership Award and the Julliard School Community Engagement and Entrepreneurship Grants.

Along with her arrival at the East Meadow library, some of Horowitz’s other touring highlights include concerts at Chamber Music Detroit, the Kravis Center in Palm Beach, Florida, a showcase at the Washington Performing Arts Society Annual Gala, educational residencies at Texas A&M University and Musical Masterworks’ MMModern series, concerts in New York City and Albany, Georgia, and premiering her original compositions for violin with voice at Carnegie Hall and The Kennedy Center, according to the pamphlet from her show.

Some classical hits at her East Meadow performance included “Chaconne from Partita” by J.S. Bach, “Iats’aadah” by Raven Chacon, and “Caprice No. 11” by Niccolo Paganini. Her own compositions included “How Do You Tell Your Child?” and “Solitude.”

Over the next few weeks, music lovers in East Meadow will be entertained by Trio Delphi, a group composed of a harpist, flutist and guitarist, as well as the Hoodoo Loungers, a classical soul band. For more, visit EastMeadow.info.

The library is at 1886 Front Street, East Meadow.

Violinist Ariel Horowitz took to the stage at the East Meadow Public Library during a special performance on Feb. 11.

Seminar teaches residents to identify scams Continued from page 1

Assemblyman David McDonough showed just how common they are, displaying a flyer he had received in the mail, claiming that he had won a $100 reward. The flyer directed him to call a number on the back, but McDonough war ned that scammers on the other end wo u l d t r y t o trick callers into sharing personal information. “ O n c e yo u give them your Social Security Manda KrIstal number, forget Program coordinator, it,” McDonough Family and Children’s said. “Your idenAssociation tity is gone.”

He also stressed not putting too much information on checks, such as a phone number.

Scammers, McDonough said, recruit “cashiers” to buy copies of checks they receive, and will call the people who wrote them. Using the checking account and routing number, scammers will say they are with a check writer’s bank, claim the account has been hacked and ask for more personal information.

“You’re giving them all the informa-

I

f you’re going to give any kind of personal information, or any money ... verify the information.

Charles Shaw/Herald

tion necessary for them to scam you and steal your identity,” McDonough said.

Manda Kristal, the program coordinator for financial abuse and exploitation at the Family and Children’s Association, a nonprofit organization that helps vulnerable people on Long Island, said that mail scams are common, and scammers will also claim to be charity organizations asking for donations. In those cases, Kristal suggested going to charitynavigator.org, which will verify if a charity is legitimate.

“There are lots of evil people out there, and they are constantly conniving and trying to take advantage of people.”

County Legislator Thomas McKevitt said.

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State and nassau County elected officials spoke at a scam prevention seminar last month at the Levittown public Library. County Legislator mazi melesa pilip, far left, assemblyman John mikulin, Legislator thomas mcKevitt and assemblyman david mcdonough discussed the importance of identifying scams.

phone, because, they say, virtually every call is a potential scam.

“If you just answer the phone and you say something,” Mikulin said, “they’ll pick that up, they’ll take your voice, and who knows what they’re going to do with your voice or with your identity?”

Kristal explained that scammers are organized and operate like businesses.

They can use robocalls and “spoofing,” where they alter the caller ID, to act as legitimate organizations. Asking someone to pay in gift cards is a red flag for a scam, because the cards are difficult to trace. Kristal said that no legitimate organization will ask for money in gift cards.

If your identity has been stolen, there are steps you can take, according to the county Office of Crime Victim Advocate, which offers services to victims and witnesses of a crime.

If you are a victim of identity theft, call the companies where the fraud occurred and freeze your accounts, and change logins and passwords. Check your credit reports, and report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission, either online, at identitytheft.gov, or by calling its identify theft hotline, (877) 438-4338.

Finally, file a report with your local police department and update your personal information.

According to Kristal, victims of a scam will only be more vulnerable, because they’ve proven that they are susceptible to giving up their personal info.

“If you’ve been the victim of a scam,” she said, the probability of them coming back to you is very, very high.”

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Kristal said that phishing emails, in which scammers trick people into giving away sensitive information, will pretend to be your bank and message you that your account has been hacked. These types of scams use fear as a tactic, she said, so the victim will be more likely to give up information. Any time an email or phone call claims to be your bank, Kristal said, it is important to call your bank to confirm with them.

“If you are going to give any kind of personal information, or any money, to anybody that you don’t personally know, verify the information,” she said.

Grandparent scams, according to Kristal, have become prevalent, preying on the emotions of the elderly. In these cases, a scammer will call up a grandparent and pretend to be their grandchild, claiming they are in jail and need money for bail. In these situations, Kristal recommends sharing a password with family members. When a scammer pretends to be family, ask for the password and, she said, they’ll hang up, because scammers would rather move on to an easier target.

Scammers are using new technologies, such as artificial intelligence,” Kristal said, to make them harder to identify. AI is capable of cloning voices and images, which makes it easy for scammers to replicate a person’s voice or likeness. All the scammer needs are a few words of your voice, or photos, which they can get from voicemails, calls or pictures on the internet.

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Hanover research group,” Rosner said.

“That’s why I got up a few times and grabbed the microphone, because some questions were not being answered, that I think if they were more thorough, I probably wouldn’t have to do this. But that’s my responsibility, and that’s why I’m here tonight.”

Rosner assured the attendees that there are no major corporations that don’t have a strategic plan.

“East Meadow does not,” he said. “It’s very, very important to plan for the future of our students. And that’s what the Hanover researcher consultants do — they work hand in hand with our district leadership team, our community, to build a strong plan for what we will be doing in East Meadow over the next five years.

The board is an integral part of that.

“This is about the five P’s,” Rosner added. “Proper planning prevents poor performance. We are a high-achieving district, but that does not take away the fact that we have things that we need to do for our students, and our teachers and our community.”

Rosner called the Hanover process “a full community engagement process.” It will include feedback from internal and external stakeholders, and using surveys and other forms of research, Hanover will build a step-by-step guide that identifies broad district goals as well as goals for individual schools. The firm will also analyze student data from the last five years.

“The big part of what they do is create a dashboard based on that data — we’re going to be getting thousands and thousands of data points coming in from these surveys that we’re going to need to kind of disaggregate and put together into plan,” Rosner explained. “They are academic K through 12 partners in research, and that’s the crux of what the company does. They work with us. They don’t do this for us.”

Rosner said that what Barnum Woods Elementary School needs may differ from McVey Elementary School — and that’s what the research will eventually pinpoint.

A point of concern in the community

was why the district needed to bring in an outside consultant firm in the first place. Rosner said that while East Meadow does have the ability to assess itself, that would likely lead to insufficiencies in planning.

“When you plan like this inside the organization, there are blind spots, because nobody likes to admit that they’re not doing something well, or that we’re not doing all that we can do,” he said. “I think an outside lens looking at our data, guiding us so there are no blind spots, is essential.”

Hanover is contracted with BOCES, which will be a great help to the district, enabling it to get 50 percent of the money back that it invests in the firm’s services.

“I believe in it wholeheartedly,” Rosner said of Hanover. “I think we need a road map and a plan to get to where we need to get.”

Comments and questions from board trustees included ensuring that future presentations and interactions with Hanover are more thorough, and that confidentiality will be ensured for all those who take part in surveys.

Rosner’s presentation was applauded by the board and other attendees, with several stating that they found it more informative that Hanover’s.

“I think you did a much better presentation than Hanover Research,” board Vice President Eileen Napolitano said.

She added that Rosner had emailed the board the morning after Hanover’s presentation last month, apologetic about the firm’s performance.

“I think you deserve the applause right now,” said Trustee David Carl, who had voiced concerns about Hanover earlier in the meeting. “You’re doing a better job now of Hanover’s own job than they did themselves. You’re here blowing it out of the water in terms of providing us with information.”

Hanover’s Jan. 22 presentation, as well as last week’s board meeting, are available for viewing on the school board’s YouTube channel, YouTube. com/@EMUFSDBoardofEducation. The next board meeting is scheduled for March 6, at 7 p.m., at the Salisbury Center in Westbury.

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Rosner eases confusions over Hanover presentation Continued from page 1

5

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

in a presentation at the feb. 7 Board of education meeting, Superintendent Kenneth rosner explained the strategic planning process the district intends to undergo with Hanover research. While east meadow is a high-achieving district, there is always more that can be done, rosner said.

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

6

The hidden danger of noise and light

By Will Sheeline, Nicole Formisano & Angelina Zingariello First part in a series Long Island faces a growing crisis as noise and light pollution become more troublesome.

Noise pollution — characterized by unwanted and harmful sounds — and light pollution — stemming from excessive artificial lights — are pressing issues impacting not just all of us who live here, but also the environment.

The World Health Organization defines noise pollution as disruptive sounds harmful to human health, while the International Dark-Sky Association — a nonprofit that fights to return the stars to our skies — warns that light pollution not only affects the natural night sky, but it also disrupts wildlife and interferes with astronomical observations.

The consistent noise from traffic, airplanes, construction and urban development disrupts daily lives and sleep patterns. Simultaneously, the widespread artificial light from streetlights, billboards, and other sources diminishes the natural darkness at night, impacting stargazing and unsettling nocturnal wildlife.

As Long Island tackles these escalating issues, local authorities are actively working to enforce noise regulations and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices, such as the Dark Skies Protection Act, put forth by the Assembly last year. The aim is to strike a balance between the imperatives of urban progress and the preservation of Long Island’s unique environment.

Addressing noise and light pollution is vital for protecting human health, according to the WHO, as well as maintaining the integrity of natural ecosystems.

Additionally, research shows the detrimental effects of noise pollution — including more stress, hypertension, and even cognitive impairment in both adults and children. Similarly, excessive exposure to artificial light at night contributes to lower quality sleep and insomnia, and even mood disorders.

These environmental stressors also affects local wildlife populations by altering migration, nesting and foraging patterns, and even disrupting reproductive hormones and behaviors. Fireflies, for example, can no longer can find mates in an artificially lit night sky.

“Almost every form of wildlife uses the night for either navigation or mating, or for many ways of regenerating the species,” said Susan Serven, a DarkSky spokeswoman. “So if you don’t have a deep dark night, you have this artificial daylight. It can confuse them, and it

Courtesy Junj Stare, LightPollutionMap.info

Using NASA’s Black Marble light product, observers can get a sense how bright different parts of the world really are. While it’s no surprise that New York City is one of the brightest spots in the region, it’s also clear that light pollution spreads well across Long Island — especially in Nassau County. can affect their physiology as well.”

While it might not get the same attention as other forms of pollution — like air and water — community organizations are teaming up with environmental advocates and researchers to raise awareness and devise strategies against noise and light pollution on Long Island.

The Town of Oyster Bay, for example, mandates that any outdoor light is properly shielded to ensure light is only cast on necessary areas rather than, really, all over the place. They must also be placed on a timer to turn on and off at appropriate times to save energy.

The Village of Malverne passed a noise ordinance last December intended to limit the unnecessary sound neighbors say they experience at all hours of the day.

“Sleep is the biggest factor in all of this,” Malverne mayor Tim Sullivan said. “Residents are trying to find peace at night. And if that’s disturbed, it has a negative effect on your mental wellbeing and your physical functionality, which could negatively impact your earnings potential, your family, your home life, and how you generally interact with people on a daily basis.

“My biggest concern, as a father, is when I have a plane flying over my house in the middle of the day, that’s excessive. It has woken my daughter up from her nap, and that (nap is) important to her well-being and development.”

Battling light pollution Once the heart of aviation attracting

the likes of Charles Lindbergh and Wiley Post, Long Island is now a hot spot for the biggest threat to our sky: light pollution.

South Shore neighbors, for example, are all too familiar with the incessant, 24-hour glow to the west that is New York City. But light pollution atlases maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences reveal Nassau County is not without its own blame.

Light pollution is “the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally,” according to Dark-Sky. And for more than 20 years, Long Island has produced light pollution on par with one of the world’s biggest cities: its neighbor, New York.

“We’ve been losing our night sky for decades,” Serven said, adding that more than 90 percent of people throughout the country can no longer see the Milky Way — or even many stars, for that matter — from their backyards.

“We’re really the first generation who has lost the night sky.”

Some of our biggest contributors, according to Dark-Sky, are streetlights, electronic advertising, and even parking lots — and it’s getting worse. Light pollution has risen by nearly 10 percent every year, and is projected to double over the next decade, Serven said.

That over-lighting comes at a cost.

Every year, millions of sea turtles that call Long Island home are killed because they mistake endless streetlights and billboards for a glowing ocean horizon with a brightness that rivals the moon. The fireflies that marked summer nights on Long Island now face total extinction, and studies have shown light pollution is largely at fault.

Humans are not exempt from the effects of light pollution. Our circadian

rhythm — or sleep-wake cycle — relies on light cues from our natural world.

But in an environment full of blue light from cellphone and laptop screens, our natural clocks are ticking out of sync.

This circadian disruption, studies show, is linked to mood disorders, reproductive problems, cancers and more. It also has drastic effects on our ability to produce melatonin, meaning more people are lying awake at night, often not realizing that the brightness that surrounds them throughout the evening is to blame.

The cost of light pollution is literal, too. Dark-Sky estimates 30 percent of all outdoor lighting in the United States is misdirected — meaning shone on areas that don’t require light, often even up into the night sky itself — adding up to $3.3 billion wasted every year. The energy it takes to sustain those unnecessary lights creates 21 million tons of carbon dioxide every year, which is among the leading contributors to climate change.

And light isn’t the only invisible menace draining your health.

Taking on noise pollution Noise pollution, is characterized by sounds that reach above the human decibel threshold, the level of sound it takes to cause auditory damage, and has far-reaching effects on our well-being.

Various sources contribute to noise pollution, with cities like Glen Cove and Long Beach bearing the brunt of its impact. Traffic noise — including the incessant honking of horns and the roar of engines — dominates streets, reaching levels as high as 100 decibels — equivalent to a hair dryer or a blender — according to the Hearing Center of Excellence, a program created by the U.S. Defense Department to study and reduce hearing loss among veterans.

CoNtINUed oN NeXt pAge

Remember when you could see stars in the sky?

Similarly, air traffic noise, construction sites, and bustling nightlife establishments all contribute to the cacophony of urban-like life.

Lawnmowers and leaf blowers long have been a point of contention between business owners and local governments, such as in the Village of Sea Cliff, which has discussed numerous complaints by both residents and businesses regarding their use in the last two years.

Following nearly two years of research, village officials passed an ordinance in 2022 restricting the days leaf blowers can be used while promoting the use of electric leaf blowers as opposed to louder, diesel versions.

“We needed to balance the public’s right to live in a quiet, bucolic setting versus other residents who hire landscapers to do their work,” Sea Cliff mayor Elena Villafane said. “So, we restricted the gas leaf blowers by prohibition during the spring and summer, and then we’ve limited the hours of electric leaf blowers during the same period to weekdays, business hours.

And then, in the fall and winter, you can use both.”

The effects of noise pollution extend beyond mere annoyance, according to the federal Environmental Protection Agency and similar organizations. Prolonged exposure to loud noises can lead to a range of health issues, including hearing loss, high blood pressure and

Will Sheeline/Herald

even sounds as innocuous as a car muffler can cause long-term auditory damage, especially compounded by the number of cars on the road in cities like glen Cove and Long Beach. heart disease.

Moreover, noise pollution disrupts sleep patterns, increases stress levels, and impairs cognitive function, particularly in children according to Matthew Mannis, a noise consultant for AKRF Inc. “Whether it’s construction noise outside or aircraft flyovers — or even the most mundane things that we take for granted — these everyday noises can be disturbing,” Mannis said.

“We are learning that higher degrees or levels of noise for extended periods

of time can raise anxiety and blood pressure levels.”

For wildlife, noise pollution presents its own set of challenges. Marine mammals such as whales and dolphins — which have been spotted more often around the Long Island Sound as water temperatures have risen — rely on echolocation for communication and navigation, according to National Geographic.

However, the underwater cacophony created by ships, sonar devices and seismic surveys interferes with their ability to perceive their surroundings, leading

to mass stranding and altered behavior.

Awareness and education are essential tools in combating noise and light pollution.

“Light pollution is actually the easiest form of pollution to fix,” Serven said. “Simply turn off any lights that aren’t needed at night. That’s the simplest thing you can do.”

Dark-Sky also recommends neighbors swap unprotected outdoor lights for ones that are shielded or on timers to limit unnecessary light and energy drainage. Plus, more and more regions — including New York — are participating in “Lights Out,” a movement to shut off nonessential outdoor light between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., during bird migration periods to help lessen light pollution’s effects on wildlife.

Investment in noise-reducing technologies — such as sound barriers and quieter asphalt for roads — can mitigate the impact of noise pollution in urban areas, according to the European Environment Agency, an organization in the European Union that studies data to support Europe’s environment and climate goals. Moreover, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and responsible noise management is crucial for safeguarding our health and the well-being of wildlife.

“Learn as much as you can, and tell others,” Serve said. “Because it’s critically important. And, the issue is getting worse.”

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Continued from PreViouS Page

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February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

8

What’s NEWs IN aND OUt OF thE CLassROOM

HERALD SCHOOLS

Photos courtesy East Meadow Union Free School District

The performance was made possible by the hard work of dozens of students, who either starred in the cast, or took part behind the scenes.

‘Anastasia’ is a smashing musical success From Feb. 8 to 10, W.T. Clarke High School’s Theatre Arts Society and Music Department performed “Anastasia: The Musical” to full and electric audiences.

The story, based on the 1997 animated film of the same name, follows Anya as she discovers she is the long-lost princess of the last reigning family of Imperial Russia. With roughly 100 students participating in either cast, pit orchestra or tech squad, the shows were a huge success.

“I am extremely proud of all our shows,” said Gregory Krajci, who directed and choreographed the production.

“All of the students were so committed to the process from the start and their hard work paid off ! They performed with a level that is found on professional stages.”

“Anastasia” starred junior Georgina Petkanas as Anya and freshman Cooper DaSilva as Dimitri, as well as senior Natalie Waters, and sophomores William Benowitz, Kaiden Mayers and Elizabeth Paulino in principal character roles. The production staff included faculty members Krajci as the director and choreographer; Molly Tittler-Ingoglia as instrumental music director; Kaitlin Melker as the vocal music director; Neil Walowitz and Courtney Ruvolo as the tech squad advisers; and Omar Rivera, Jeannene Arcuri and Marlena Dentrone as set and prop construction. The students also worked and collaborated with award-winning costume designer Chakira-Iliana Doherty and Bruce Hahlbohm from Sensory Sound & Lighting.

It is the desire and goal of the W.T. Clarke High School Theatre Arts Society for the community to make their production a part of their annual winter traditions.

The story, based on the 1997 animated film of the same name, follows Anya as she discovers she is the long-lost princess of the last reigning family of Imperial Russia.

Clarke’s Theatre Arts Society hopes to make their productions part of the school’s annual winter traditions.

The production was brought to life by Gregory Krajci, who directed and choreographed the ensemble.

From Feb. 8 to 10, W.T. Clarke High School’s Theatre Arts Society and Music Department performed ‘Anastasia: The Musical’ to full and electric audiences.

9

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

East Meadow track continues rise

By ANDREW FANTUCCHIO sports@liherald.com

Mepham Junior Basketball TO SAY DAUBE dominated in the paint in the Pirates’ 56-35 victory at Long Beach Feb. 7 would be a major understatement. The junior center, who is seeking a second straight AllCounty award, ripped down 28 rebounds and also added 21 points. Posting a double-double is nothing new for Daube, who ranks among Nassau County’s leading rebounders at 17.8 per game. She’s scoring at a 15.8 points per game clip for playoff-bound Mepham.

BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS All Games at Farmingdale State College Wednesday, February 21 Nassau Class B girls semifinals ......................6 and 8 p.m.

Friday, February 23 Nassau Class B boys semifinals ..........6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 25 Nassau Class AAA girls semifinals ................12 and 2 p.m.

Nassau Class AAA boys semifinals ........... 4 and 6:15 p.m.

Monday, February 26 Nassau Class AA girls semifinals ....................5 and 7 p.m.

Tuesday, February 27 Nassau Class AA boys semifinals....................6 and 8 p.m.

Wednesday, February 28 Nassau Class A boys semifinals......................6 and 8 p.m.

Thursday, February 29 Nassau Class A girls semifinals.......................5 and 7 p.m.

Friday, March 1 Nassau Class B girls championship game ................ 6 p.m.

Nassau Class B boys championship game ............... 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 2 Nassau Class AAA girls championship game ..........11 a.m.

Nassau Class A boys championship game ..........1:15 p.m.

Nassau Class AA boys championship game ........3:30 p.m.

Nassau Class AAA boys championship game ......5:45 p.m.

Monday, March 4 Nassau Class AA girls championship game .............. 5 p.m.

Nassau Class A girls championship game ................ 7 p.m.

A winning program since its inception in the 1960s, the East Meadow girls’ track team is rising back to its former glory under coach Michael Ringhauser.

After finishing fourth in the Nassau County Class A Track and Field Championships Feb. 5, the Jets have added another chapter to their storied history.

The Hall sisters, Zaria and Anaya, sit at the forefront of the team, holding the top two spots in the 100-meter dash in the program’s history.

Although she didn’t compete in her signature event, Zaria was still a force wherever the Jets needed her.

“She got a little out of her comfort zone,” Ringhauser said. “Normally, during the season, we focus on the middledistance events, but she knew, for the good of the team, we As soon as one event was done, she started her recovery process immediately, focusing on the next event and just taking things one at a time.

It was a really big help and what turned out to be a close meet for us.”

Zaria won the 1,000-meter race and also took home second place in the 1500-meter and 600-meter races. Meanwhile, Anaya earned third place in the 1000-meter race and sixth in the 600-meter race.

“They’ve been together training together as partners and pushing each other to some really great times,” Ringhauser said of the sisters.

East Meadow also placed third in the 4x200 relay.

The Jets didn’t just earn recognition on the track but succeeded in field events as well.

In only her second year competing for the team, Katelyn Coffey took second in the weight throw and came in sixth in the shot put.

“Katelyn has been an outstanding thrower for us,” Ringhauser said. “A year ago, she didn’t even know what really track and field was. We found her in the hallway, and we started training her in the weight throw. As a freshman, she set the school record in the weight throw last year.”

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Katelyn Coffey had strong showings in the weight throw and shot put at the Nassau Class A championships, helping the Jets finish a solid fourth.

Coffey didn’t so much find track and field as the sport found her, which is the same case for a lot of Ringhauser’s competitors.

Lina Masaoka Guevara joined the team only after her older brother competed for the boys. She has since become a standout in the long and triple jump, while Leah Schleicher is making waves in the high jump and the 4x200.

“You tailor to what athletes are best

at,” Ringhauser said. “It’s been a couple of years where we’ve developed a real allaround program. We were a very distance-heavy team. We scored a lot of our points really in just that event discipline.

In the couple of years since, we’ve really developed a full team, where we have great sprinters and field event athletes and throwers. It’s been a long a long-term plan to develop the depths that we have now.”

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EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

HERALD SPORTS

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

10

What’s UP NEXt DOOR aND aROUND thE CORNER

HERALD NEIGHBORS B’Nai Torah line dance creates memories Temple B’Nai Torah, which serves many East Meadow residents, recently hosted its Square and Line Dance, a lively tradition that brought together community members for an evening of music, dance, and celebration. In its 25th year, the event took place last month, marking a quarter-century of joyous gatherings at the temple.

The festivities kicked off with a hot buffet before turning into an evening of rhythmic entertainment. The event’s dance caller, Mario Fiore, added a special touch to the celebration. Fiore, the son of the renowned Primo Fiore, continued the family legacy of promoting square dancing. Primo Fiore is remembered for teaching square dancing at the Bandshell at Jones Beach, making the B’Nai Torah event a continuation of a cherished tradition.

Under Mario Fiore’s guidance, over 120 enthusiastic attendees took part in the square and line dances, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter. The dance floor became a melting pot of community members, each reveling in the blend of tradition and modernity throughout the evening. In bringing together generations of participants, the Square and Line Dance at Temple B’Nai Torah became a symbol of unity within the community.

Danielle Sinacori/Herald photos

A large crowd gathered at Temple B’Nai Torah last month to enjoy a music-filled night of square and line dancing.

Over 120 attendees enjoyed a hot buffet dinner before hitting the floor to show off their moves at the square and line dance.

–Charles Shaw

Mario Fiore, the square dance caller at the event, speaks onstage to the dancing crowd. Fiore is the son of Primo Fiore, who famously taught square dancing at the Jones Beach Bandshell.

Joanne Greenlee, left, Lisa Shimborski and Linda Shedlock, dressed for the occasion at Temple B’Nai Torah’s Square and Line Dance event.

Rob and Debbie Saunders enjoying a night of square and line dancing at Temple B’Nai Torah.

STEPPING OUT

11

Dinos come to life at

By Danielle Schwab Walk among the prehistoric giants at Jurassic Quest, where everyone can roam about and glimpse what Earth was like more than 165 million years ago.

Jurassic Quest — that traveling dinosaur experience combining archaeology with the latest tech — returns with its herd to Nassau Coliseum this weekend. This immersive spectacle features a bevy of lifelike dinosaurs — of all shapes and sizes — that are an impressive lot. They transform the arena environment back to the time when dinosaurs roamed, so that visitors can get up-close and personal with the creatures.

The three days of prehistoric adventuring — Saturday through Monday — includes visiting with the lifelike dinos, who’ll glare and move about as folks pass by, along with all sorts of related activities. Plus, the playful dino “babies” — Tyson the T-Rex, Trixie the Triceratops and Cammie, the Camarasaurus — always delight visitors.

You’ll find exciting curiosities at every turn. Rideable dinos, dinosaur shows, and interactive science and art stations — including a fossil dig • Feb. 17-18, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; — are all part of the experience.

Feb. 19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

The littlest explorers will also enjoy • Tickets $32.50-$52.05 (Use a “Triceratots” soft play area, code FOSSIL for 10 percent bounce houses and inflatables. off admission price); It’s all self-guided, so everyone available at JurassicQuest. can go through the activities at com or NassauColiseum.com their own speed. But it’s suggested • Nassau Coliseum, carving out at least two to three 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, hours to get the most out of the Uniondale experience.

It all began 10 years ago, created by Texas-based Jurassic Quest, which consults with paleontologists to make the creatures as realistic as possible, and reflect current thinking about how the giant creatures looked and acted.

“Dinosaurs are sort of universal to all people,” says Nick Schaefer (aka Prehistoric Nick), one of the expert “dino trainers” and fossil experts, who’s been with Jurassic Quest since 2016.

“When guests walk into our pillars, the first thing we have is our exhibit where we have dinosaurs from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. We have over 165 million years worth of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.”

One of the more popular components allows kids to become dino-trainers.

“We have the raptor training experience, where we have one of our trainers come out and interact with our guests to help train our full-sized Utahraptor (one of the newest additions to the animatronic pack),” Nick says. “Our guests will give central commands and try to make it listen.”

Ever wonder what it’s like to ride a dinosaur? Climb

Friends of the Brothers Friends of the Brothers returns with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers. Their powerful celebration of the Allman Brothers, featuring musician closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique.

Guitarist/singer Junior Mack has fronted Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band for 12 years, and starred in the acclaimed Broadway show ‘Lackawanna Blues.’ Guitarist Andy Aledort played with Dickey Betts for 12 years, has recorded with Double Trouble and Band of Gypsys, and toured with Experience Hendrix. Their firsthand experience with the Allman Brothers Band — and their deep knowledge of the repertoire and the music’s roots and heritage — allows them to play with an unrivaled depth. They perform songs from every stage of the Allman Brothers Band’s career, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players.

Friday, Feb. 16, 8 p.m. $33, $28.

Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444, or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

It’s estimated that a new species of dinosaur is named every two weeks.

Photos courtesy Jurassic Quest

Trainer Prehistoric Nick knows his way around a dinosaur skull. aboard one — such as the mighty T-Rex — and find out.

Kids also eagerly make their way to the fossil dig, where they can channel their inner paleontologist and study replicated and real fossils like T-Rex teeth, a triceratops horn, and life-size dino skull.

Much like the dinos, Jurassic Quest continues to evolve (without heading to extinction).

“The Quest” — a self-guided dinosaur scavenger hunt and expanded excavation station — add to this year’s experience. Visitors can also try to lasso escaped dinos in Rope-a-Raptor, assisting the experienced “Broncobusters” round up the creatures and bring them back to their pens. Also you might want to face off with a notoriously fast Utahraptor in a “Raptor Run” race.

Each dinosaur is painstakingly replicated, from coloration to teeth size, to textured skin, fur or feathers, drawing on the latest research about how we understand dinosaurs and ancient giants of the sea looked and moved. Plant settings, sound effects, lighting and electronics add to the authenticity of the setting.

“We actually have modified a few of the dinosaurs to stay as up to date as we can with the information,” Prehistoric Nick says. “One of our dinosaurs, the Spinosaurus, paleontologists are still learning about, and every couple of years, a new paper will come out and change the way it looks. So, we do our best to keep updating it.”

Aspects like its snout, posture, and even the tail have been readjusted.

These dino trainers really know their stuff. Prehistoric Nick, who studied archeology in college, shares the team’s passion for dinosaurs. He’s been involved in excavations, and has participated in paleontological digs in Canada.

“Dinos are often the introductory science for younger kids,” Nick says. “I think it’s really important to bring a sense of wonder about dinosaurs to the public. Studies have shown that kids who have sustained interest — like a fascination of dinosaurs — have a tendency to do better in STEM fields. So fostering a love of dinosaurs and science and engineering is really beneficial.”

Even more that that there’s magic in science.

“When guests first come through for the first time, there’s this jaw-dropping awe,” Nick says. “When they see these full-sized dinosaurs, it blows their mind.”

Modi Get to know Modi when he visits Long Island with his highly anticipated comedy tour, Know Your Audience. Voted ‘One of the Top 10 comedians in New York City’ by The Hollywood Reporter, and ‘The Next Jackie Mason’ by The New York Times, he’s now one of the circuit’s most sought-after performers.

Modi has received rave reviews for his charisma and positive message, relatable to both Jewish and nonJewish audiences. He and his family immigrated to the United States from Israel (at 7), and was raised on Long Island. After graduating from Boston University, he worked as an investment banker until his first open-mic night, where he knew stand-up was his true calling.

Equipped with a sharp wit, Modi has become a successful fixture on the comedy scene.

Sunday, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. $144.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.Tickets available atTicketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

Watch them roar

Your Neighborhood

On exhibit

THE Feb.

25

Camellias and more

Flogging Molly Celtic-punk rockers Flogging Molly have hit the road with their “Road to Rebellion” tour, sure to rouse audiences with their anthemic odes to the Emerald Isle, on the Paramount stage, Sunday, Feb. 25, at 7:30 p.m. Formed in L.A. in 1997 by Irish expat Dave King, the band got its start (and its name) from local Hollywood bar Molly Malone’s, where each week the band performed, grew their following and laid down the blueprint for eventual success. Their infectious Celtic-tinged reels are perfect for dancing along to, for those who love their Irish heritage and those who just want a Expect an elective mix of old favorites, sing-a-longs, rare acoustic numbers and new material strung together by King’s cheeky tales and jokes and first-rate musicianship from the legendary seven-piece group. Building a loyal following through endless touring, Flogging Molly has become a staple in the punk scene over the past 20-plus years, kicking off with its riotous debut, “Swagger,” and continuing through their additional studio albums. With numerous late-night TV appearances under their belt, a sold-out Salty Dog Cruise through the Caribbean, and a yearly St. Patrick’s Day Festival in L.A., the band’s juggernaut continues. $79.50, $49.50, $39.50 . The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Friend

Shake off the winter blues at Planting Fields Arboretum State Park’s annual two-day Camellia Festival, Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 17-18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy light music and be amazed by the variety of colors and gorgeous blooms of these glorious camellias.

Coe Hall is the center of activity throughout the festival, with music, watercolor painting crafts, activities, a typewriter poet, tea tastings, learning experiences for all ages, shopping, self-guided tours of the historic mansion and more.

Learn about Planting Fields rare and extensive collection of hundreds of camellia trees.

Both historic and modern plants native to Japan, Korea and China display a wide variety of spectacular flowers ranging from red, pink, white, bicolor and even yellow. $15, $10 seniors.

1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay. Visit PlantingFields.org or call (516) 922-8600 for more information.

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.

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February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

12

Welcome to Volume 2 • Issue 2

LI

TODAY

Februart 2024

Sands Environmental Impact Study Moves Forward Long Islanders weigh in on Sands proposed robust environmental impact study during the January hearings in Uniondale

W

hen building an integrated resort complex with a multi-billion-dollar investment, it is crucial to outline

and quantify the tangible effects of economic growth, job creation, and community benefits. One key aspect that developers often strive to minimize is their environmental impact on the surrounding area through comprehensive research and mitigation measures.

Under the New York State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) Act and its implementing regulations, projects, like the Sands New York Integrated Resort, are required to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement that identifies and evaluates impacts and presents mitigation measures that avoid or reduce those impacts. The SEQR regulations require public scoping to determine what should be evaluated in the Environmental Impact Statement, and the first step in the scoping process is the preparation of a Draft Environmental Scope by the applicant. The draft scope outlines the issues that will be studied in the Environmental Impact Statement. The public comment period and hearing process on the draft scope of the Environmental Impact Statement ensures public participation is at the center of establishing a comprehensive scope of study on the surrounding environment and community character.

Through the process of creating the scope for the Environmental Impact Statement for their planned Long Island integrated resort and wellness destination, Sands has gone above and beyond on their impact studies. The comprehensiveness of the draft scope and the studies proposed for the Environmental Impact Statement demonstrate Sands’ commitment to community benefits and documented record of global environmental sustainability.

Sands’ draft environmental review is the most robust ever proposed. They will assess environmental and social impacts including air quality, soil, noise, water, light, parking, and traffic– but also community character, jobs, and public health. The plan includes:

who we are:

Transportation, Traffic and Parking A full traffic impact study will evaluate over 114 locations, from seasonal patterns to weekday rush hours and weekend traffic, including during construction and operation.

Parking, access, bicycles, and pedestrian traffic are all being studied, as well as how the project integrates into existing transit cycles and routes.

The study will also include a parking evaluation to ensure the proposed plans accommodate adequate on-site parking to mitigate the impact on the surrounding area.

Air, Soil and Water Throughout the process of drafting their Environmental Impact Statement, Sands will study the existing vegetation and habitat, including the Hempstead Plains, and conduct a full analysis of water and soil, including groundwater, water supply, discharge, storm water management, and soil excavation; study air emissions from stationary and mobile sources, as well as evaluate greenhouse gas emissions, climate change, energy conservation and sustainability measures including waste reduction.

Community Character The study will also assess how the proposed project would fit into overall the character of the existing community. This work will include a community character Continued on page 2 Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Long Islanders weigh in: Sands New York supporters urge the Sands project forward with the project’s comprehensive environmental impact study.

The developer of a multi-billion-dollar flagship hospitality, entertainment and casino project on Long Island

Continued from page 1

assessment, including cultural resources and zoning for the site and surrounding areas in consultation with the towns of Hempstead and North Hempstead and the villages of Garden City, Hempstead, Mineola, Westbury and Freeport.

The impact studies will also include noise and vibration assessments, including noise impacts during construction and operation of the facility, to ensure the integrated resort remains a longstanding good neighbor.

Public Health and Problem Gambling

Photo provided by Sands

Sands New York gave a $10,000 contribution to Island Harvest Food Bank in honor of the upcoming holidays.

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!

Sands, in partnership with the Sands community Work Groups, will study problem gambling, as well as available programs and services. This ongoing study will include period assessments to identify and study services that mitigate gambling addictions and other public health concerns.

Socio-Economic Impacts EIS studies will include a full analysis of the project’s impact on jobs and economic growth (direct and indirect), which includes looking at community demographics, Sands’ commitments to the community, as well as construction, employment, and training programs.

Community Facilities and Services, and Cumulative Impacts The study will include the site’s existing use of facilities and capacities, including emergency services, and the assessment of impacts of increased demand on services from the resort.

The scope will also include proposed on-site security, as well as how the project might interact with other developments in the area, like the anticipated NYU-Langone Hospital.

Town of Hempstead Public Hearings While the Sands’ draft scope for the Environmental Impact Statement is being reviewed, the Town of Hempstead (the lead

agency) has hosted public meetings to transparently inform community members about Sands’ proposed assessment commitments, as well as solicit community feedback on the scope of the assessment.

Hundreds of Long Islanders have turned out to these meetings to show their support for the project, and for the DEIS to move forward.

Uniondale resident Olena Nicks said, through submitted written testimony, “Although it is imperative to have a full view of the proposed Sands project, I support the process in which Sands New York is taking to illustrate their plans. Sands New York has been working to show their commitment to the Uniondale community and surrounding areas. Through flexible working groups Sands has made it accessible for residents and stakeholders to have transparent insight into the environmental impact of the project. I believe the steps taken and information distributed are positive initial steps that address the questions and concerns

of Residents.”

East Meadow resident Gary Humbert submitted, "It’s an economic win for everyone. It creates thousands of jobs and brings dollars to our local businesses. It’s a win-win situation."

The information collected from the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will help inform Sands on how and where it should provide targeted resources for mitigation, ensuring a final project that is a net gain for the region, providing substantial quality of life benefits.

The details of Sands’ robust study for the proposed $4 billion resort is available on the Town of Hempstead’s website at HempsteadNY.gov.

Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Sands and the Town of Hempstead have hosted several public meetings to transparently inform community members about Sands’ proposed plan and hear feedback or concerns from community members.

Photo provided by Sands

EAC Network, a not-for-profit social service agency that empowers, assists, and cares for over 65,000 people in need through 100 programs across Long Island and New York City, recognized Sands New York at its annual Building Bridges Gala last week. Sands SVP and Former NYS Governor David Paterson was on-site to accept the award.

Photo provided by Sands

The partnership between Sands Cares Youth Empowerment Initiative and the Long Island Nets extended to a second Holiday Hoops Experience at Nassau Coliseum over the first weekend of January. A new batch of 75 students from communities across Long Island turned out to learn basketball fundamentals and sports safety with Long Island Nets Basketball Academy clinicians, and were surprised by a visit from Long Island Nets players Kaiser Gates, Kennedy Chandler, Kameron Hankerson and Kyler Edwards.

Photo provided by Sands

Sands New York partnered with the United States Marine Corps Reserve to collect Toys-for-Tots throughout the Season of Sparkle celebration. The Sands team also delivered a $10,000 donation to the Toys-for-Tots organization for its mission to help deliver gifts to economically disadvantaged children over the holiday season.

To learn more about the Sands as the world’s preeminent developer and operator of world-class integrated resorts visit sandsnewyork.com

Continued from page 1

assessment, including cultural resources and zoning for the site and surrounding areas in consultation with the towns of Hempstead and North Hempstead and the villages of Garden City, Hempstead, Mineola, Westbury and Freeport.

The impact studies will also include noise and vibration assessments, including noise impacts during construction and operation of the facility, to ensure the integrated resort remains a longstanding good neighbor.

Public Health and Problem Gambling

Photo provided by Sands

Sands New York gave a $10,000 contribution to Island Harvest Food Bank in honor of the upcoming holidays.

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!

Sands, in partnership with the Sands community Work Groups, will study problem gambling, as well as available programs and services. This ongoing study will include period assessments to identify and study services that mitigate gambling addictions and other public health concerns.

Socio-Economic Impacts EIS studies will include a full analysis of the project’s impact on jobs and economic growth (direct and indirect), which includes looking at community demographics, Sands’ commitments to the community, as well as construction, employment, and training programs.

Community Facilities and Services, and Cumulative Impacts The study will include the site’s existing use of facilities and capacities, including emergency services, and the assessment of impacts of increased demand on services from the resort.

The scope will also include proposed on-site security, as well as how the project might interact with other developments in the area, like the anticipated NYU-Langone Hospital.

Town of Hempstead Public Hearings While the Sands’ draft scope for the Environmental Impact Statement is being reviewed, the Town of Hempstead (the lead

agency) has hosted public meetings to transparently inform community members about Sands’ proposed assessment commitments, as well as solicit community feedback on the scope of the assessment.

Hundreds of Long Islanders have turned out to these meetings to show their support for the project, and for the DEIS to move forward.

Uniondale resident Olena Nicks said, through submitted written testimony, “Although it is imperative to have a full view of the proposed Sands project, I support the process in which Sands New York is taking to illustrate their plans. Sands New York has been working to show their commitment to the Uniondale community and surrounding areas. Through flexible working groups Sands has made it accessible for residents and stakeholders to have transparent insight into the environmental impact of the project. I believe the steps taken and information distributed are positive initial steps that address the questions and concerns

of Residents.”

East Meadow resident Gary Humbert submitted, "It’s an economic win for everyone. It creates thousands of jobs and brings dollars to our local businesses. It’s a win-win situation."

The information collected from the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will help inform Sands on how and where it should provide targeted resources for mitigation, ensuring a final project that is a net gain for the region, providing substantial quality of life benefits.

The details of Sands’ robust study for the proposed $4 billion resort is available on the Town of Hempstead’s website at HempsteadNY.gov.

Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Sands and the Town of Hempstead have hosted several public meetings to transparently inform community members about Sands’ proposed plan and hear feedback or concerns from community members.

Photo provided by Sands

EAC Network, a not-for-profit social service agency that empowers, assists, and cares for over 65,000 people in need through 100 programs across Long Island and New York City, recognized Sands New York at its annual Building Bridges Gala last week. Sands SVP and Former NYS Governor David Paterson was on-site to accept the award.

Photo provided by Sands

The partnership between Sands Cares Youth Empowerment Initiative and the Long Island Nets extended to a second Holiday Hoops Experience at Nassau Coliseum over the first weekend of January. A new batch of 75 students from communities across Long Island turned out to learn basketball fundamentals and sports safety with Long Island Nets Basketball Academy clinicians, and were surprised by a visit from Long Island Nets players Kaiser Gates, Kennedy Chandler, Kameron Hankerson and Kyler Edwards.

Photo provided by Sands

Sands New York partnered with the United States Marine Corps Reserve to collect Toys-for-Tots throughout the Season of Sparkle celebration. The Sands team also delivered a $10,000 donation to the Toys-for-Tots organization for its mission to help deliver gifts to economically disadvantaged children over the holiday season.

To learn more about the Sands as the world’s preeminent developer and operator of world-class integrated resorts visit sandsnewyork.com

LI

Las Vegas Sands named to Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for World and North America

TODAY Ahead in Sustainability

With the goal of achieving measured, ongoing progress, Sands also has established 2021-2025 ambitions in the areas of workforce development, Team Member volunteerism and carbon emissions reduction, mapping to its People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

Included on DJSI World for 4th consecutive year, DJSI North America for 8th time; Sands China Ltd. named to DJSI World for 2nd year Las Vegas Sands was once again recognized on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI), with placement on the DJSI World Index for the fourth consecutive year and the DJSI North America Index for the eighth time. Sands China Ltd., the company’s Asian subsidiary, was also named to the DJSI World and DJSI Asia Pacific indices for the second consecutive year.

The DJSI World Index comprises global sustainability leaders as identified by S&P Global through the Corporate Sustainability Assessment). It represents the top 10% of the largest 2,500 companies in the S&P Global BMI based on longterm economic, environmental and social criteria. Sands and Sands China are the only two companies in the Casino and Gaming category listed on DJSI World this year.

“Our recognition on this premier global sustainability benchmark, following our recent inclusion as one of Newsweek’s America’s Most Responsible Companies, underscores the impact of our corporate responsibility initiatives and ESG leadership,” Patrick Dumont, President and Chief Operating Officer, said.

“We aim to be the employer and partner of choice in our regions, a model corporate citizen working

to ensure strength and resiliency of our communities, and the industry leader in environmental sustainability.”

Sands’ DJSI inclusions reflect the company’s adaptability in aligning efforts and reporting to the major methodology changes and public disclosure expectations made for the Corporate Sustainability Assessment this year.

The approach is reflective of Sands’ focus on transparency as defined by the major Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) authorities and a dedication to continuously expanding its impact.

The DJSI, including the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World), were launched in 1999 as the pioneering series of global sustainability benchmarks available in the market. The index family is comprised of global, regional and country benchmarks.

The S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment is an annual evaluation of companies’ sustainability practices and covers over 10,000 companies from around the world. The CSA focuses on sustainability criteria that are both industry-specific and financially material and has been doing so since 1999.

Planet

• 2025 GOAL:

Achieve a 17.5% reduction in carbon emissions

Finally, Sands works to ensure the long-term environmental health of its regions through the Planet pillar, led by the Sands ECO360 global sustainability program.

As of 2022, Sands had achieved a 50% reduction in carbon emissions from its 2018 baseline; however, the cumulative decrease reflected continued pandemic-related impact on property visitation. As business returns to more normal levels in 2023, Sands is continuing to aggressively pursue its low-carbon transition initiatives in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy and transportation.

People

• 2025 GOAL: Invest $200 million in workforce development As of 2022, Sands had invested $56 million in workforce development initiatives, bringing its cumulative investment to $113 million since 2021, well past the halfway point.

Sands is focused on building the workforce of the future by supporting the professional growth of its Team Members, advancing the skills of hospitality industry professionals as well as the local labor pool in its regions, and helping local businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, succeed.

Communities • 2025 GOAL: Contribute 150,000 Team Member volunteer hours

The global Sands Cares community engagement program leads initiatives under the Communities pillar and drives the company’s priorities on hardship relief, education, nonprofit and local business advancement, disaster relief and preparedness, and cultural and natural heritage preservation.

Sands surpassed their goal by the end of 2022 because of extensive support for pandemicrelated initiatives, along with core Sands Cares volunteer efforts. The new 2025 target will be announced in the company’s next ESG report in spring 2024.

Feb. ‘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.

Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeedingsupport 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.

Mah Jongg Enjoy Mah Jongg and canasta, Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., at East Meadow Beth El Jewish Center. $5 contribution. No outside food allowed. Bring your own games and cards.

Lessons available. 1400 Prospect Ave. Call (516) 483 4205 or more information.

Feb.

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Art talk Join Scott Defrin, owner of European Decorative Arts in Greenvale for Nassau County Museum of Art’s exhibit related program “Collecting Decorative Arts During the Gilded Age; Connoisseurship vs. Decoration,” Sunday, Feb. 25, 3 p.m.

New York was the center for collecting during the Gilded Age. More money was spent on fine art, decorative art and interior decoration than at any time in American history. From Carnegie to Frick, and Morgan to Vanderbilt, Defrin discusses the different approaches to collecting among these magnates and how their fortunes helped establish the permanent collections of today’s museums.

Limited seating with registration required.1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

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.

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 2/29/24

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

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

(516) 678-0886

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On stage Princesses and other enchanting heroes and heroines take to the stage, when Plaza Theatricals presents its Winter Princess concert, Friday and Saturday, Feb. 23-24, 11 a.m. Take part in an interactive singa-long featuring an array of everyone’s favorite winter characters. $15. See it at The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore (Friday) or at Elmont Memorial Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont (Saturday). For tickets, visit PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870.

Bingo at Beth-El Get your game on, Mondays, at a bingo game at East Meadow BethEl Jewish Center, in East Meadow, starting at 6 p.m. Prizes, progressive games, bell jar prizes and refreshments will be provided.1400 Prospect Ave. For information, contact (516) 483-4205.

Concert time

Weekly Mah Jongg

Trio Delphi, featuring Skyla Budd, Paul Lauto and Daniel Moreno, performs at East Meadow Public Library, Sunday, Feb. 18, 2 p.m. and is free to attend.

Registration required. 1886 Front St, East Meadow. For more information, visit EastMeadow.info or call (516) 794-2570.

Join the JULIETS for Mah Jongg and card games at Congregation Beth Tikvah, Thursdays, noon-4 p.m. (doors open 11:30 a.m.). All levels of players welcome.

Open to women and men. $5 per person. 3710 Woodbine Ave. For more information, email mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or contact Beth Tikvah office at (516) 785-2445.

Psychic Night Visit Borrelli’s Italian Restaurant for Psychic Night, Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 6 p.m. A three-course dinner served. $65 per person, includes a one-on-one private reading. 1580 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow. For more, visit EPSConnection.com.

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

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Breastfeeding Support Group

KIDS, CAMp and SCHOOL — with a focus on prOgrAMS AnD ACtIvItIeS

Outside the classroom The day’s far from over once the school bell rings Kids nowadays are certainly busier than ever before. The increasingly competitive nature of scholastic life combined with the increase of outside of classroom options available to kids means that kids today are much busier than their school-aged counterparts of yesteryear.

Can after-school programs give your children an academic boost? According to a recent study of after-school programs serving lowincome elementary and middle school students, the answer is yes. Students who regularly participated in after-school programs surpassed their peers in academic performance.

They also exhibited notable improvements in work habits and behavior.

“These findings underscore the importance of high quality after-school programs and activities for both elementary and middle school youth,” explains Deborah Lowe Vandell, PhD, Chancellor’s Professor Emerita, University of California at Irvine’s Department of Education, and the study’s lead author.

It’s no surprise that after-school programs can do much more than keep your children occupied during the afternoon. In fact, afterschool activities can help them in a variety of ways. Children develop time-management skills, build self-esteem, and practice goal-setting. While it may be tough to squeeze in afterschool activities for your children, the benefits

are well worth the extra effort.

Time management and prioritizing.

Extracurricular activities teach children how to manage their time and prioritize various tasks and commitments.

Exploring diverse interests. The school band, drama club, or any sport may be an activity your children are interested in joining. By allowing your children the opportunity to explore diverse interests, you give them the opportunity to discover what they are passionate about. Once your children find an activity that they enjoy, succeeding in the activity could ultimately build their confidence and self-esteem.

Making a contribution. Extracurricular activities allow your children to make a contribution to their school or community, which is an important step in preparing them for life outside of academics.

Building self-esteem. Mastering new skills can help create confident kids. By participating in after-school activities, they can build their self-esteem in a relaxed setting as their activities provide the opportunity to be successful in something that they are passionate about.

Setting goals. Participation in extracurricular activities and programs present opportunities for your children to develop their goalsetting skills. Most involve reaching or achiev-

ing a goal, whether it be the lead actor in the school play, winning the state championship or coming in first place in the science fair. As a result, these activities help encourage students to work toward achieving those goals, while having fun at the same time.

Teamwork. Sports teams, clubs and activities, like dancing and music, all require children to work together toward a common goal. By participating in these activities, your children develop the skills they need in order to successfully work with others. In addition, extracurricular activities let children to build rela-

tionships and socialize with peers who share their interests.

College applications. And, of course, afterschool activities look great on college applications. In addition to academic performance, colleges want a well-rounded student and look at what activities students are involved in outside of school as a way to fully understand each student.

Photo: Recent studies show a correlation between improved grades, behavior and work habits as a result of students’ involvement in after-school activities.

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

NASSAU COUNTY

SUMMER RECREATION PROGRAM 2024

JULY 1 - AUGUST 8, 2024 AGES 5 TO 12 | PROGRAM DAY: 8:30am – 4:00pm LOCATIONS:

WANTAGH PARK & CANTIAGUE PARK

INFO AND ONLINE REGISTRATION:

www.NassauCountyNY.gov/Parks

Call: 516-572-0245 | Email: ncsummerrec@nassaucountyny.gov

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February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

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Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

Celebrating Our 70th Year!

Offering recreational and professional track classical ballet training for toddlers through adults, ABT© Curriculum, Pre-Primary through Level 5.

& Camp EAsT MEAdOw

Watch your child progress in a structured class environment with certified instructors. Our thorough syllabus prepares dancers for a career or simply a life-long love of the arts. No matter your goal, every child benefits from a strong classical foundation.

*No ballet prerequisite.

Summer Classes, Camps & Intensives 5 or 6-week programs Regular evening and weekend classes in July & August Youth Day Camps in June & July (August forming) Multi-week Intensives for Experienced Dancers in August

YoUNGer CAMPerS

Summer and Fall Enrollment is now open

Adults, want a fun way to get in shape?

Join us for adult ballet, PBT or tap. BeginnerAdvanced adult classes are offered for students age18+.

Nutcracker Auditions

AN AMAZING

SUMMER CAMP

EXPERIENCE STARTS @HOFSTRA

RegisteR now foR Camp 2024

516-781-3900

older CAMPerS

Arts & Crafts • Jewelry Making Basketball • Handball Hockey • Lacrosse Dance Science Animal Care Theme Parties Swim Instruction Water Slide Ice Cream

WWW.BIGCHIEFSCHOOLANDCAMP.COM

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June 16th and August 24th

Mature, Adult Staff, 1:4 Ratio Hot Lunch • Ice Cream 2 Heated Pools • Red Cross Swim Instruction Arts & Crafts • Cooking • Music Kickball • Basketball • Wiffle ball Lunch With Surprise Characters Annual Dog Show Science • Animal Care • Gardening Weekly Specialty Activities

nOW accepting applicatiOns fOr summer emplOyment

& A LOT MORE FUN, FUN!!

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Summer and fall classes include Ballet Technique, Pointe, Partnering, Acro*, Contemporary, Tap*, Jazz, PBT, Acting and Improv* and more.

It’s never too early to plan for summer. Hofstra Summer Camps is open for registration!

A favorite of Long Island families for 40 years, Hofstra Summer Camps provides campers in grades K through 12 an exciting opportunity to explore their passions, learn new skills, or become better athletes in any of our 50+ camps. Campers benefit from use of Hofstra’s state-of-the-art facilities, and our included lunch and transportation options make us the preferred choice for parents.

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Learn more about Hofstra Summer Camps at an Open House on Sunday, February 11, 12-2 p.m.

RSVP at Hofstra.edu/camp.

Ad_HofSummerCamp2024_Herald_HalfPg.indd 1

2/2/24 4:26 PM

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Public Notices

News brief

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

LEME1 0215

LEGAL NOTICE NASSAU - INDEX NO.: 006989/2016SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS. Plaintiff designates NASSAU COUNTY as the place of trial based upon the location of the premises herein described having tax map Section 11, Block 31, Lot 44, WESTBURY, NY, County of NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF UPLAND MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST A, PLAINTIFF, -againstunknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs-at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of BONNIE DUVAL A/K/A BONNIE G. DUVAL, deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs-at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff, JENNIFER DUVAL, AS ADMINISTRATRIX, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CRAIG DUVAL A/K/A CRAIG R. DUVAL; CRAIG DUVAL, JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CRAIG DUVAL A/K/A CRAIG R. DUVAL; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, CITIBANK, N.A., CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., ASSET ACCEPTANCE, LLC, CHASE BANK, N.A., DOUG DUVAL, MYRNA DUVAL, JEREMY DUVAL, DEFENDANTS. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this Summons and Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage

company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered against you and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Syosset, New York, January 18, 2024. Roach & Lin, P.C., attorney for Plaintiff, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, NY 11791. Tel: 516-938-3100.

To the above-named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. David P. Sullivan, a Justice of the Supreme Court, State of New York, dated December 27, 2023 and filed with the NASSAU County Clerk together with the supporting papers thereon. This is an action to foreclose a mortgage held by Plaintiff on the premises known as Section 11, Block 31, Lot 44, WESTBURY, NY, County of NASSAU as described in the complaint on file and commonly known as 1037 BROADWAY, WESTBURY, NY 11590.

79348 144426 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC Bank USA, National Association as Trustee for ACE Securities Corp.

Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2006-HE1, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Plaintiff AGAINST Lemuel Stephens; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 30, 2018 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 4, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 189 Newport Road, Uniondale, NY 11553-1121. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, in the unincorporated aera of the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 34 Block 364 Lot 255.

Approximate amount of judgment $598,737.15 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 001454/2014.

The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Michele A. Baptiste, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: December 14, 2023 144633

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR LVS TITLE TRUST 2018-1, V. INA I. ABELIS ESPOSITO, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated September 25, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR LVS TITLE TRUST 2018-1 is the Plaintiff and INA I. ABELIS ESPOSITO, 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 March 12, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 283 MERRICK AVENUE, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554: Section 50, Block 462, Lot 4: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATED, LYING AND BEING AT EAST MEADOW, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612311/2020. Brian J. Davis, 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. 144728

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Macela Santos A. International LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 01/06/2021.

NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to 1630 Powers Ave, East Meadow - NY 11554.

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity 144784

Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking On Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of February, 2024, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations: FRANKLIN SQUARE CLEVELAND STREET east side, starting at a point 88 feet south of a point opposite the south curbline of Wool Avenue, south for a distance of 18 feet. (TH-15/24) UNIONDALE PAFF AVENUE - west side, starting at a point 227 feet north of the north curbline of Pine Place, north for a distance of 22 feet (TH-26/24) (NR) WESTBURY WESTLEY ROAD - north side, starting at a point 119 feet west of the west curbline of Washington Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-14/24) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons: LEVITTOWN STONECUTTER ROAD west side, starting at a point 360 feet north of the north curbline of Rigger Lane, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-362/10 4/23/10) (TH-30/24) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: February 13, 2024 Hempstead, New York

BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY 144887

Courtesy office of State Assemblyman John Mikulin

State Assemblyman John Mikulin is sponsoring a bipartisan bill that would require large-scale SUNY construction projects to include a project labor agreement.

Mikulin wants union work for SUNY projects State Assemblyman John Mikulin joined members of the New York State Building & Construction Trades Council and other labor unions at the state capitol last month to rally for union jobs in State University of New York construction projects.

For decades, unions have built, maintained and invested in the state’s higher education campuses — however, with no project labor agreement requirement in place, SUNY’s current procurement system uses taxpayer dollars to subsidize out-of-state companies.

“Our state has been built by good, hardworking unions, and the state-ofthe-art SUNY facilities across New York are shining beacons of decades of their efforts,” Mikulin said. “These campuses

not only inspire future generations seeking higher education, but they remind us all of the determination, grit and teamwork that went into building these campuses.

“When it comes to state tax dollars, we should be doing everything we can to hire local, support local and keep jobs in-state. I proudly support our unions and am a proud supporter of this initiative.”

Mikulin is a sponsor of the bipartisan bill that would require large-scale SUNY construction projects with an estimated cost of $3 million or more to be approved by the state and include a project labor agreement.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of February, 2024, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations: EAST MEADOW ROSALIE DRIVE (TH 4/24) West Side NO PARKING ANYTIME starting at a point

20 feet west of the west curbline of Oceanside Road, west for a distance of 50 feet.

LONG BEACH ROAD (TH 28/24) East Side NO STOPPING ANYTIME starting at a point 15 feet south of the south curbline of Bellevue Avenue, then south for a distance of 50 feet.

OAKVIEW AVENUE (TH 596(B)/23) North Side NO PARKING ANYTIME starting from the east curbline of Brower Avenue, then east for 116 feet.

(NR) VALLEY STREAM HEWLETT DRIVE (TH 32/24) East Side NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER starting from the south curbline of Rosedale Road, south for a distance of 40 feet.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 202-1 “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” from the following locations: OCEANSIDE

–Jordan Vallone

Public Notices 41 feet south of the south curbline of Bard Lane, south for a distance of 25 feet.

FRANKLIN SQUARE ARLINGTON AVENUE (TH 8/24) South Side NO PARKING ANYTIME starting at a point 235 feet east of the east curbline of Doris Avenue, then east for a distance of 47 feet.

(NR)ROCKVILLE CENTRE LANGDON BOULEVARD (TH 35/24) East Side NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of Clinton Avenue, south for a distance of 30 feet.

LANGDON BOULEVARD (TH 35/24) East Side NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Clinton Avenue, north for a distance of 30 feet.

OCEANSIDE MERLE AVENUE (TH 20/24) North Side NO STOPPING ANYTIME starting at a point

MERLE AVENUE - North Side - NO STOPPING starting from the west curbline of Oceanside Road, west for a distance of 50 feet.

(Adopted 11/18/58) OAKVIEW AVENUE (TH 124/84) North Side -NO PARKING ANYTIME starting at the east curbline of Brower Avenue, east for 85 feet.

(Adopted 4/16/85) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: February 13, 2024 Hempstead, New York

BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY 144884

PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

17

H1 02/15

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.

HEWLETT-WOODMERE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

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

NOW HIRING:

SALES/MULTI MEDIA CONSULTANTS – INSIDE & OUTSIDE* FT/PT

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools is seeking an Administrator/Supervisor for the District’s Summer Playschool Program. The program runs July 1, 2024 August 9, 2024, Monday - Friday from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm (closed July 4). Campers range in age from Pre-K-grade 9. Staff orientation will be held on June 28, 2024.

The administrator in charge of the program will be responsible for hiring and overseeing camp staff, group scheduling, vendor contracts, field trip planning, etc.

Help Wanted

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

Call Nancy For More Details Serious Inquiries Only

516-426-2427

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.

Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must.

Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma

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

Call 516-731-3000

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

Eldercare Offered

or Call

516-569-4000

*Outside Sales must have car 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

EDITOR/REPORTER

LOGISTICS ANALYST: ALPI USA Inc. seeks a Logistics Analyst in Valley Stream, Nassau County, New York. Bachelor's degree in International Business or Operations and Supply Chain Management required. Knowledge and Proficiency in Cargo Wise, Microsoft Office (Access, Word, Excel, and Power Point), Trade Map, SAP Business and Management software.

Qualified applicants may submit resume directly to Michael Laurence Carkin, Chief Operating Officer, via email to michael.carkin@alpiusa.com

ext 200

Help Wanted 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 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

1234932

Careers@liherald.com

Help Wanted

Fun, Energetic, Reliable $16.00/ Hour

MAILROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $17 per hour)

Email Your Resumes to

EMPLOYMENT

DAY CARE ASSISTANT Full Time Needed

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

(Salary Range $20 per hour to $30 per hour)

1247796

Equal Opportunity Employer

REPORTER/EDITOR FT/PT (Salary Range $20,000 to $45,000)

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT/PT

Interested candidates must have NYS SBL certification.

Interested candidates must apply on-line at www.hewlett-woodmere.net click on career opportunities

Salary Range $33,280 to $100,000 including Commissions & Bonuses

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

Project Managers, Westbury, NY: Coordinate jobs start to finish, plans, permits, scheduling & updating statuses; Review scope of work to see if matches contract; Prep necessary materials & attend weekly project meeting & manage project field m a n p ow e r. S a l a r y $ 1 0 2 , 0 0 0 $121,597/year. Send res to: Cardoza Plumbing Corp, Janet@cardozaplumbing.com.

SANTA CRUZ SERAG Caregivers Provide The Best Male/ Female Caregivers In America. Certified HHA's, Professional. Experts In Dementia, Alzheimers, Parkinsons Cases. Live-in/Out. Gertrude 347-444-0960

Helping you find a HOME or sell a HOME … a place to call your own.

Suburb or country, house, condo, townhouse or apartment, our Classifieds can help you find a HOME that fits your style, your budget and Real Estate needs... it’s a MUST SEE!

Call us today!

Your Hometown Newspaper

To Place an Ad Call: 516-569-4000 • Press 5

HERALD

Homes

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

REAL ESTATE Open Houses EAST ROCKAWAY 2/18,12-1:30, 62 Bulaire Rd, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This 4 BR, 2.5 Bth Exp Ranch in Waverly Park Area of SD#20(Lynbrook).

Open Floor Plan. LR w/Fpl, DR, Gran/Wood EIK Plus Family Rm w/ Vaulted Ceiling. Upper Level Has Huge Skylit Recreation Rm, BR, Bth & W/D. Beautifully Lanscaped Oversized Prop W/ Trex Deck for Enter taining. Multi Car Drvewy...$899,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

HEWLETT BA, 1534 Broadway #213,.!

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. Garage Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship....$649,000 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 516-238-4299

Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

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: 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 H EW L ET T 1 53 4 B ROA DWAY # 213 , OPEN HOUSE By Appt, 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. Garage Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship....$649,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

HERALD

18

H2 02/15

Merrick Woods

HOME Of tHE WEEK February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

One Of A Kind!

T

his turnkey, truly unique, one of a kind Ranger Ranch, boasts 5 bedrooms including 2 primary suites, 3 full baths, extended eat in kitchen, extended great room, and dedicated laundry room on main level. This incredible home has too many amenities to list. Nestled in the heart of Merrick Woods, within minutes to all, this 1/4+ acre property has a resort style heated saltwater pool/ waterfall and landscaping for spectacular privacy and beauty that is second to none. For those with a discriminating taste, this home is a must see both inside and out. $1,349,999 Call for a private showing

Q. I have been looking for houses with my daughter and son-in law. We finally found one; unfortunately, everything we’ve seen needs some kind of work, and this one is no exception. It has cracks in the foundation that we were told could be a structural problem. We got three people to look at the foundation, and one, a contractor with a lot of experience in the area, told us that the whole foundation should be replaced, that it’s a “structural mess.” An engineer told us about a horizontal crack that’s only on the outside and not on the inside, saying it needs filling with a kind of cement that would repair the problem.

The third person, a mason contractor, also told us that the crack is a sign that the whole section on that side of the house is dropping and would need to be cut out and replaced. We don’t know which way to go.

The wall looks straight, even though the mason said it’s already almost an inch out of vertical and could continue to tilt. What would you do if these were your children and such an expensive repair?

OPEN HOUSES SUNDAY, 2/18/24 EAST ROCKAWAY 62 Bulaire Rd, 12-1:30, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This 4 BR, 2.5 Bth Exp Ranch in Waverly Park Area of SD#20 (Lynbrook). Open Floor Plan. LR w/Fpl, DR, Gran/Wood EIK Plus Family Rm w/ Vaulted Ceiling.

Upper Level Has Huge Skylit Recreation Rm, BR, Bth & W/D. Beautifully Lanscaped Oversized Prop W/ Trex Deck for Entertaining. Multi Car Drvewy ............................................................................................ $899,000

HEWLETT BAY PARK 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

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

Results that Move You

HEWLETT 1267 Peninsula Blvd, 2-3:30, 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

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

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

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

Apartments Wanted SOUTH SHORE VICINITY: Nice, Responsible Person Seeking Studio/ 1 BR/ Share. Lower Level Okay. 516-569-5054

Rooms Wanted RESPONSIBLE PERSON LOOKING for Room to Rent in either Uniondale, Freeport, Hempstead or Baldwin.

Non-Smoker, Reliable, Quiet and Very Nice .

Please Call/ Text 929-620-9363

3487 5th Street, Oceanside

Instagram: @aigamazz

Listing Agent : AigA MAzzAnobile Cell: 516-425-2068 “Taking The Mystery Out Of Real Estate Since 1983”

Apartments For Rent

Furnished Rooms/Apts.

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

RESPONSIBLE PERSON LOOKING For a Room to Rent or Apartment to Share in either Hempstead, Uniondale, Freeport, or Baldwin Vicinity. Non-Smoker, Reliable, Quiet and Very Nice.

Call/ Text 929-620-9363

ELMONT: 1 BR, Upper Level, All New, All Included, Near All, No Pets. $2,000.

516-547-8015

Sold Price!

S $ 687,000 O L 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath Expanded Cape D

1245284

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

1247545

1247963

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

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

1-800-231-6152

A. The question really is, who do you trust, and how much really needs to be done? Do you accept the engineer’s opinion? Are they really a licensed engineer or a home inspector? It does matter, because there is a level of responsibility that goes with truly professional advisement versus the opinion of experienced trades-people. onte eeper Basically, it always comes down to one thing: In a court of law, whose testimony and credentials will be acceptable to the judge. Will the contractor or mason be able to demonstrate to a court that they have the training, license(s) or credentials to be recognized as the final word? A concrete wall out of vertical alignment after many years of service can be concerning, but consider that if the wall is still supporting, the one inch is one-eighth (approximately) of the width of the wall, which is still attached to the rest of the construction and is not severed away.

I would doubt that the wall is as great a concern as you have been led to believe. It is certainly worth monitoring. When I approach such a condition, which happens several times a year, I look at the much greater surroundings to try to evaluate causes. Is the foundation subject to ground vibration from traffic, underground tidal activity, surface drainage that hasn’t been sloped away from the building, poor soil conditions? There can be many different reasons for the separation.

Sometimes it’s just a bad construction job, where the second pour on top of the first was delayed too long, and the horizontal crack is due to what is referred to as a “cold joint,” where the concrete didn’t set up together to begin with. It doesn’t mean the foundation wall will fail. Stick with impartial advice from qualified licensed professionals to make your decision. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

1247667

1246682

Jane Clifford Signature Premier Properties 516.359.2060 Cell JCliff1743@aol.com Lic Real Estate Salesperson Lic # 10391201876 324 Merrick Avenue Merrick, NY 11566

Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299

‘Everything we’ve seen needs some kind of work’

M

L

Apts./House To Share HEMPSTEAD, UNIONDALE, FREEPORT, BALDWIN OR VICINITY: Responsible Person Looking to Share a 2 Bedroom Apartment or House.

Non-Smoker, Quiet, Very Easy Going.

Willing to Split All Expenses.

Please Call/ Text 929-620-9363 If No Answer, Leave Message

© 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.

19

H3 02/15

Market Place • •

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

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

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

HERALD

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

CALL FOR YOUR

ANNUAL TUNE UP

Offers Valid Valid Through Offers Through12/23/23 3/15/24

10% OFF TERMITE SERVICE

1245880

516-223-2951

1244737

1246744

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.beatofuel.com

DaVe MaRloWe plUMBinG, inC. OWA_GotClutter_BW_Bold

Sunday, August 02, 2020 AM DBA 11:31:01 BOB PHILLIPS PLUMBING

RepaiRs & installations

oFFiCe: 516-766-4583 Cell / teXt: 516-840-9432

6HOO \RXU PHUFKDQGLVH LQ QR WLPH OO K GL L L (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

Carpentry & Painting Specialist

Residential and Commercial - All Phases

$69 $49

Sewer Drains

www.unclogitnow.com

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

$99

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

new Hi-Tech Jetting customers only

516-678-6641– Licensed & Insured

CALL NOW 888-777-9709

Free estImAtes...call Anthony romeo 1245888

PROFESSIONAL CHIMNEY SERVICE

10%OFF FOR NEW CUSTOMERS

Always Affordable Chimney Inc.

855-244-6880 • 516-830-0166 alwaysaffchimney@aol.com Fully Licensed And Insured

www.alwaysaffordablechimney.com

HEATING OIL HOME • COMMERCIAL

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

CALL NOW FOR LOWEST PRICE

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1245233

CRAZY?

WE GET YOUR SEWER AND DRAINS FLOWING AGAIN 1244479

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1247144

Exp. 4/20/24

1239551

1246620

• Insured • Licensed Master Plumber

1246780

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

JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE...

JOBS, MERCHANDISE, It’s in the Herald Classifieds...

REAL ESTATE & MORE...

Call 516-569-4000 JOBS,To Advertise MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE...

JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... press 5

HERALD

Stuff

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

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

H4 02/15

MERCHANDISE MART Antiques/Collectibles 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

FINDS UNDER $100 Finds Under $100 AUDIOVOX PLAYER D1998 with two earphones, battery charger, in black carry bag, $15. 516-884-9994

CLUTTER

driving you

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 Finds Under $100

SERVICES

CRYSTAL STEMWARE: WATER, Wine, Champagne. 6 of each, Brand New in Original Boxes. $99, 516-225-9191

Electricians

DELTA KITCHEN FAUCET, single hand pull down,silver chrome, $55.

516-884-9994 HEAVY DUTY CAR Ramps $50 Firm.

516-486-7941.

IRON BOARD: Full Size With Iron. Very Good Condition. $50. Valley Stream Area.

516-384-3832, Leave Message OAK MEDIA STORAGE Cabinets (2): for CD's, DVD's, etc. IKEA Unassembled, New, $50 each. 516-486-7941 PROFORM 235CSX RECUMBENT Bike N e w, M o d e l - P F E X 5 2 7 1 5 . 0 $ 9 5 516-386-3844 RO O F TO P C A R G O C A R R I E R , S o f t Used once.$50. 516-225-9191

CRAZY?

Sell your merchandise in no time!

Email your Ad to the Herald and PrimeTime Classified Department at

sales@liherald.com to run a FREE "Finds Under $100"

HErald

Crossword Puzzle

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

1243304

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

20

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 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

1240395

Deals on Wheels

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

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Answers to todAy’s puzzle

21

opinions

ong Island lost an American icon with the passing of Baldwin resident Bob Beckwith last week.

The image of Beckwith standing with President George W. Bush amid the ruins of the World Trade Center days after the Sept. 11 attacks will forever personify America’s unyielding courage and quiet determination in the face of horrific tragedy and massive challenge.

In the aftermath of 9/11, the deadliest attack ever on American soil, the country was shattered. I pETER traveled to New York from WashKinG ington on Friday, Sept. 14. Bush was on Air Force One, and I was on an accompanying Air Force jet with other members of Congress from New York.

Riding in a government vehicle from LaGuardia Airport to Lower Manhattan, I was struck by how quickly New York had become a ghost town. There was virtually no traffic on its usually congested streets, and just handfuls of pedestrians on otherwise busy sidewalks. We were driven to a corner adjacent to the wreck-

age of the twin towers. Though I had worked in an office building on Vesey Street years before, when the towers were being constructed, I had difficulty getting my bearings amid all the destruction.

We were told that the president was several blocks away, and would be making his way toward us, when we heard a loud roar and cheers of “USA!” This was before the age of social media, so it wasn’t until I got home that I saw the video on television of Bush standing atop a damaged vehicle, shouting into a bullhorn that “the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon!’’ His left arm was wrapped around the shoulder of a strong-faced, quietly confident, veteran New York City firefighter.

This image resonated with me like the iconic photo of the Marines raising the Stars and Stripes at Iwo Jima inspired a previous generation of Americans. At that moment, on Sept. 14, 2001, Americans knew we would not be vanquished.

We would fight back with American spirit, determination and courage. Overnight, photos of the scene flew around the world, including to the cover of Time magazine.

In the subsequent days I would talk

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with firefighter friends who had worked with Bob Beckwith over the years. Everything they said about him was positive.

The most common descriptions of him included “solid,” “regular guy,” “loyal” and “very patriotic.”

Sure enough, when I got to know Bob and his wife, Barbara, I saw that he was all that and more. He gave no indication that his image had been seen by tens of millions of people around the world, or that he had visited Bush in the White House and maintained a friendship with him. He was a thoroughly decent man who was proud to have been a firefighter, and considered himself no more important than other firefighters.

Often I would be invited to join retired firefighters at monthly breakfasts at a Lindenhurst diner. I was always struck by how Beckwith, an internationally known symbol of 9/11, mingled and sat so unassumingly as just one of the guys, expecting no recognition or special acknowledgment. Rosemary and I became friendly with Bob and Barbara.

We visited their home and invited them to ours for Christmas parties. Bob campaigned for me, handing out flyers at shopping centers, appearing at fundrais-

e’d be the last to tell you that his image had been seen by millions around the world.

ing events and attending swearing-in ceremonies in Washington.

In November, Rosemary and I visited him when we heard his health had taken a turn for the worse. It was a heartwarming visit. Bob was as sharp as ever, talking with us about his friendship with Bush and how he used his fame to focus public attention on the need to help burned and injured firefighters. He also reminisced about his 30 years of service in the FDNY, without ever making himself the center of the story.

Though he was using a walker that day, he got around easily, using it more as a safeguard than a necessity. As always, Barbara not only joined in the conversation, but had coffee and pastries for us as we sat around the dining room table. Bob wasn’t kidding himself. He knew his cancer had spread, and he would be undergoing immunotherapy. But he was both hopeful and fatalistic, hoping it would work while knowing it might not.

Bob Beckwith fought hard to the end and died as he lived, with courage and class. It was my privilege to be able to call him my friend. Bob Beckwith and 9/11.

The right man for a historic moment.

R.I.P. Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Stop playing petty political games with county resources

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or Nassau County, 2024 is a year of new beginnings — a fact that is evidenced by the ascension of two new legislative caucus leaders and five new legislators. I was looking forward to a fresh start and greater bipartisan cooperation as we confront the county’s most important issues.

Unfortunately, our first meeting did not go as I hoped.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the federal government allotted funding to help local communities weather the crisis and recover from the many challenges it created.

The county received roughly DELiA $385 million in DeRiGGi-WHiTTon American Rescue Plan Act funds, and, as of Jan. 22, still had around $299 million left to allocate. By law, ARPA funding must be allocated by the end of this year and spent by the end of 2026.

Otherwise it will be clawed back by the federal government.

Some municipalities have used the money for tax rebates for residents, to launch medical bill forgiveness programs or to establish other initiatives that directly aid small businesses and non-

profit organizations. On the other hand, County Executive Bruce Blakeman has recently stressed two ideas — moving more than $222 million into the county’s operating budget, and using $10 million to help stage and promote a series of galas and other celebrations of the county’s 125th anniversary. By comparison, Blakeman proposed setting aside a relatively small portion of the funding — $15 million — to support various nonprofits and special districts that deliver ARPA-approved services.

Initially, the minority caucus advocated for the inclusion of roughly $12 million for worthwhile agencies in our seven districts. When presented with the $15 million number for the entire county, our hope was to reach a compromise that increased the total to $19 million, with an agreement to divide the funds equally, with $1 million for each of the 19 districts. That would have allowed each legislator to help arrange for the distribution of resources to the most severely impacted programs and initiatives to help communities fully rebound from the pandemic.

Ultimately, the majority would not commit to an equitable distribution approach, or even a small increase of the

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allocation.

Naturally, this was a disappointing outcome. And recent events have made the absence of an equity agreement a real concern.

For the past several years, applications for grant funding in my district — for fire departments, public libraries, and more — seem to have been stonewalled by the Blakeman administration. During our ARPA negotiations, implications were made that the funding was indeed being held up. The reason? The administration didn’t approve of my comments in a recent column, urging it to expedite the delivery of opioid settlement funds to agencies that deliver life-saving prevention, treatment and recovery services.

Specifically, when I argued that the administration’s approach is “badly out of touch with the needs of our constituents,” it was alleged that I engaged in “personal attacks.”

By fast-tracking approval of $10 million in funding for 125th-anniversary celebrations while opioid funding continued to languish on our ledger books, the administration made its priorities clear. Pointing that out is a policy critique, and I stand by my statement today. I am still dismayed that the county held back hundreds of

e need to make better use of federal funding left over from the pandemic.

millions of dollars in remaining ARPA and opioid settlement funds for as long as it did to bolster its reserves for the sake of impressing rating agencies and potentially generating interest on the funds.

In my opinion, by acquiescing to the administration’s wishes, the Legislature’s presiding officer, Howard Kopel, missed a relatively easy opportunity to start off his tenure in a good-faith, bipartisan manner. Even after hearing directly from dozens of organizations that would have put those resources to such good use, the majority rubber-stamped the administration’s plan and gave every indication that the county executive’s office will have the final say on where this $15 million will be spent. While I hope the office will be responsive to the will of the people and each district will receive a fair share, that outcome is now out of the control of the members of the minority caucus.

Yes, this was an incredibly disappointing start to the year, but it’s just that — the start. I’m still optimistic that we will do a better job for the people of Nassau County in the months ahead, and that the county will use this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to give worthwhile organizations that serve our communities the resources they deserve.

Delia DeRiggi-Whitton is the County Legislature’s new minority leader, and represents the 11th District.

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

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I’ll never forget Bob Beckwith

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HeraLd editoriaL

East mEadow

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

HERALD

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Saying goodbye to a true American hero

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hen the terrorists attacked, Bob suited up. And, like so many brave first responders, raced toward the danger to save and search for others.”

Those were the words former President George W. Bush shared in a statement last week about Bob Beckwith, a Queens firefighter from Baldwin who had indeed raced to the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, and ultimately stood with the president a few days later as he gave a rousing speech to the first responders with nothing but a bullhorn in that iconic moment.

Except that Beckwith — who died on Feb. 4, at 91 — wasn’t on active duty in 2001. He was 69, and had been retired from the New York City Fire Department since the mid-1990s, following a stellar 30-year career. But it was in his blood to rush and help, and that was the only thing on his mind as he raced to the scene in search of survivors, donning his old firefighter helmet from Ladder Co. 164.

It was by pure chance that the president spotted him that day. But once he did, Bush wanted nothing more than to have Beckwith at his side while he sought to build optimism during one of the country’s darkest periods.

“I want you to know that America today is on bended knee in prayer for the people whose lives we lost here,” Bush told the first responders that day, his left arm draped around Beckwith. “For the workers who work here. For the families

who mourn. This nation stands with the good people of New York City, and New Jersey and Connecticut, as we mourn the loss of thousands of our citizens.”

“We can’t hear you,” someone shouted from the crowd. Without missing a beat, the president yelled back into the bullhorn: “I can hear you!” earning cheers from those gathered around him.

“I can hear you. The rest of the world hears you. And the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon!”

Afterward, Bush extended his hand to Beckwith, who shook it proudly before stepping off the rubble so he could get back to work.

Beckwith wasn’t introduced that day, but that didn’t keep the world from knowing who he was. From multiple news reports in the months that followed to the cover of Time magazine, the image of Bush standing with Beckwith demonstrated the resolve of the American people, helping to begin the healing process.

Yet those days were very difficult for Beckwith. Of the 2,977 people who died that day, 343 were FDNY members who had raced into the twin towers as others desperately tried to find their way out.

Another 71 were law enforcement officers — primarily from the New York City Police Department — while 55 others were military personnel, most of them killed in the attack on the Pentagon in Washington.

After it seemed the initial danger had passed, another remained hidden among

the rubble, and it attacked every one of those brave men and women who sifted through the debris that day and in the weeks and months that followed. Cancers believed to have developed after exposure to the toxic debris sickened many of them in the years afterward, and claimed many lives. Last September, after the death of former EMT Hilda Vannata and retired firefighter Robert Fulco, the number of FDNY members killed in the aftermath by those diseases equaled the total who died on Sept. 11 itself.

And that number, horrifically, will only grow. The first responders and their families will continue to need our help.

And it’s imperative that our leaders at both the state and federal level continue to ensure that funding is in place to make that happen.

Bob Beckwith lived to 91, capping an extraordinary life. But even his was cut short by a 9/11-related illness. Something he never would have developed if he had just stayed home that day.

But that wasn’t Bob Beckwith. And it certainly wasn’t who President Bush saw that day at ground zero. Beckwith was a man who raced toward danger while others ran from it. And retired or not, it wasn’t going to stop him.

“I was proud to have Bob by my side at ground zero days later,” Bush said after learning of Beckwith’s death. “And privileged to stay in touch with this patriot over the years.”

Rest in peace, Bob Beckwith. You truly do define what it means to be an American.

Letters Too many Long Island teens are driving distracted, and dying To the Editor: Recently, a fatal issue has been making headlines on Long Island. While motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 15- to 18-year-olds in the U.S., Nassau and Suffolk are two of the deadliest counties for traffic fatalities in New York.

According to the Institute for Traffic Safety and Management, Long Island averages 18.2 roadway deaths per month. That number skyrocketed to 31 in August 2023.

Crashes claimed 243 lives in 2022, 29 percent more than in 2019. On Jan. 2 of this year, on the Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway in North Massapequa, while returning to school after the holidays, Dylan Nuccio went off the road at Exit 5’s northbound ramp, hit a tree, and flipped the car, a crash that took his life.

We at EAC Network, a nonprofit comprising 114 social service programs helping New Yorkers in need, can educate more teen drivers and their parents to decrease these numbers and save lives.

Rachel Lugo, EAC’s division director and the force behind our Driving Equation program, partnered with community agencies and Long Island high schools to promote safe driving

and reduce distractions behind the wheel through free educational programs including Second Chances in Occupant Protection for Everyone, or SCOPE, and Teen Driving Equation.

Lugo also oversees Safe Start, a program promoting child passenger safety by educating parents and child care providers.

According to Lisa Mirabile, an

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opinions

a

n influx of refugees from Latin America, U.S. political wars, and the 2024 presidential campaign has fueled anti-immigrant campaigns in the United States.

In statements echoing Adolf Hitler and Nazi ideology, former President Donald Trump promised, if he is elected again, to keep out refugees he believes are poisoning the “blood of America.” Governors of states along the southern border have been busing migrants to northern cities, straining municipal budgets and threatening to increase homelessness.

This kind of hostility to immigrants isn’t new. aLan At the nation’s sinGer founding, Black immigration was banned. Starting in the 1880s, the United States limited Asian immigration. In 1924, advocates for immigration quotas that would restrict southern and Eastern Europeans, specifically Italians and Jews, argued that they would be too difficult to Americanize.

Thomas Aldrich published a poem in the Atlantic Monthly, “The Unguarded Gates,” in 1892, in which he warned, “Wide open and unguarded stand our gates, and through them presses a wild motley throng” with “accents of men-

ace alien to our air.” Aldrich begged Lady Liberty, the “white Goddess,” to reconsidered whether it was wise “to leave the gates unguarded.”

During a congressional debate in 1924, Robert L. Bacon, a Republican who represented Suffolk County, argued, “We have work to do in assimilating and Americanizing those we already have living under our flag without lifting the floodgates and permitting an inundation to come rushing through … We cannot do this work if we spend all of our time at Ellis Island welcoming the millions who would like to come from other and more unfortunate lands … It must be admitted that the nationals of some countries assimilate easier and become Americanized quicker than the nationals of other countries.” The House of Representatives passed an immigration restriction law by a vote of 308-58; the vote in the Senate was 69-9.

A new study by the Immigration Research Initiative shines a different light on recent immigration. Focusing on Long Island, it argues that an influx of immigrants gives local economies a boost. About 20 percent of Long Island’s population is immigrants, and with their American-born children, their families make up a significantly larger portion of the population.

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The study found that “New immigrants arriving to Long Island can expect to earn a median wage of about $27,000 per year. If there are two wage earners in a family, as is likely the case for most of the immigrants coming to New York, their combined income would be about $54,000” — well above the 2021 federal poverty level of $12,880 for individuals and $26,500 for a family of four. The study also found that after five years, the annual wage was closer to $35,000, bringing a two-income family’s earnings to about $70,000. The study’s authors calculated that the wages paid to every 1,000 newly arrived immigrant workers contributed $27 million to the local economy, and increased state and local tax revenues by about $3 million. After five years, the local benefit for each 1,000 workers is $35 million annually, and tax revenues increase to $4 million.

New immigrants also fill vital jobs, especially as caregivers for children, the elderly and the chronically ill, and in medical facilities. According to Anthony Capote, a senior policy analyst at the Immigration Research Initiative and one of the study’s authors, initially “there’s a net cost” as migrants integrate into new communities, “But in the long run, there’s a net benefit.”

Nationally, immigrants pay almost $26

here may be a cost when they arrive, but in the long run, there’s a net benefit.

Letters involved parent, an EAC defensive driving program participant, an EAC Network Board member and the president and CEO of Vertigo Media Group, “The EAC program is invaluable. When a young person receives their license, they don’t realize they’re driving a weapon. EAC’s defensive driving program showed my son — through live examples and testimony from EMTs, police officers and victims — what it’s like to live in the aftermath of catastrophic accidents. The instructor revealed how he lost his own son. It brought my son to tears — he even hugged me. It scared him straight. This saves lives and should be taught in every high school. I’m so grateful that we had this experience. It made my son a respectful driver with no accidents to date.”

As Long Island mourns, swift results are essential. The community must unite, support partners like EAC, and emphasize driver responsibility. It’s time to act. Any Long Island high school interested in free educational driving programs for parents, caregivers and students can contact the EAC Network’s Second Chances in Occupant Protection for Everyone at (631) 6487100, ext. 210. Together we can reverse the devastating statistics.

GILLIAN HANNA Public Relations, EAC Network

billion annually in income, Social Security and Medicare taxes. They also pay local sales and property taxes. New York state collects $1.1 billion in taxes from immigrant families, and that number would increase by $250 million if the federal government passed legislation creating a path to legal status for undocumented workers.

A number of countries now have aging or declining populations, including Japan, Italy, Finland, Portugal and Greece. In Japan, 28 percent of the population is 65 or older. In the United States the 65-and-older cohort is 16 percent. Seven European countries have populations declining at rates of over 18 percent. Japan’s rate is 16 percent, and its population is expected to drop by over 20 million by 2050. China reported a decline of almost 1 million in 2022, the first population decline there since famine in the 1950s and ’60s.

Aging and declining populations put a two-way strain on national social services. Older people need more health care and receive government pensions, and a higher ratio of retirees to workers means that a smaller percentage of workers are contributing to national budgets. The United States has largely avoided this problem because of the influx of younger immigrants into the workforce.

Dr. Alan Singer is a professor of teaching, learning and technology and the director of social studies education programs at Hofstra University.

Framework by Tim Baker

Do you transfer from the LIRR to the subway?

To the Editor: Thousands of LIRR commuters who transfer to the New York City subways should be concerned that neither Gov. Kathy Hochul, MTA Chairman Janno Lieber nor NYC Transit President Richard Davey told the whole story at a ceremony when they boarded the new R211 train beginning passenger service on the C local subway line.

These new cars are unable to be safely operated on the A line express tracks.

A series of Federal Transit Administration grants to the MTA, over several years, paid for most of the base bid of $1.44 billion awarded to Kawasaki to purchase 535 new state-of-the-art R211 subway cars. They will primarily replace a similar number of cars currently operating on the A and C lines, along with the Staten Island Railway, that have reached the end of their useful lives.

Delivery of all 535 cars is anticipated to be completed before the end of 2024. This assumes there are no additional project delays.

Davey said that NYC Transit is being overly cautious by keeping the subway cars on local subway routes.

What they all did not share with com-

Celebrating 60 years since the Beatles first landed — TWA Hotel at Kennedy Airport

muters, taxpayers, elected officials, the MTA board and transit advocates is that the design of the gangway on the new cars makes it impossible for train operators to safely perform a required inspection following the activation of the emergency brakes. Not a day goes by in which someone doesn’t pull an emergency brake, which results in major service disruptions.

Will Hochul, Lieber and Davey hold those responsible for the design, engineering, procurement, inspection and acceptance of these new subway cars

accountable for this major error? Never in the history of the MTA have new subway cars not been able to be safely operated on both local and express tracks.

Whoever is responsible for this disaster should be fired.

LARRY PENNER Great Neck Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer and a former director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

EAST MEADOW HERALD — February 15, 2024

Immigrants are crucial contributors to our economy

February 15, 2024 — EAST MEADOW HERALD

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“The Vacant Space Revival Program qualified us for on-bill credits that really help me manage costs.”

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

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