A recent audit of the East Meadow school district by the state comptroller’s office found that the district paid more than $1.1 million in overtime costs to the facilities and operations department due to improper monitoring.
By MAlloRY wilSoN mwilson@liherald.com
Anyone who has ever interviewed for a job knows just how stressful the process can be, and that’s why for the past 15 years, the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce has been hosting the Millie Jones mock interviews for juniors at East Meadow and Clarke High School.
The 55 student participants are a part of the Academy of Finance program, and
the interviews aim to improve their skills and prepare them for college or future employment. Alan Hodish, a past president of the chamber, is the mastermind behind the event. Hodish said he’d been told in the past that students who had come to the chamber for jobs or internships were not very prepared for interviews.
“It’s a chance for us as a chamber, our business people, and some other members from the community, to get a
chance to give back to our students,” Hodish said. “It gives them an opportunity to be part of the interview process.”
The Academy of Finance is a program offered to the two high schools by the National Academy Foundation, a company that supports career academies within traditional high schools. It allows students to take a variety of business classes. The
Continued on page 4
Between July 2018 and June 2022, the district had roughly $1.4 million budgeted for overtime expenses, but wound up using over $2.5 million, according to the report done by state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office.
The audit sent to the district lays out what the comptroller’s office looked into, and what they ultimately found. It highlights the key findings, and then offers recommendations to ensure that whatever the findings may be, don’t happen again.
“District officials did not ensure that written approval was
obtained before all overtime was worked; therefore, employees may have worked unnecessary overtime,” the audit stated. “As a result, the increased overtime will also increase the amount owed by the district annually to the State, for its share of the cost of the employees’ retirement benefits.”
From July 2020 through December 2021, 88 of the 112 department employees received a total of nearly $1.3 million in overtime. According to the audit, more overtime money was paid out for instances where overtime was not approved or was approved after the overtime was already worked. The audit allowed for a response from district officials regarding their thoughts on the audits findings. Kenneth Card Jr., the district’s superintendent, asked auditors to consider that during the time they examined, Continued on page 2
our district, similar to other districts, suffered extensive illness, mandated quarantine periods, and several deaths during this time.
KENNEtH CARd JR. Superintendent, East Meadow School District
the Covid-19 pandemic was taking place.
“Our district, similar to other districts, suffered extensive illness, mandated quarantine periods, and several deaths during this time,” Card wrote. “From the beginning of the pandemic, until the middle of December we lost 796 manpower days (6,368 manpower hours) in the areas examined alone.”
In regard to the nearly $1.3 million paid in overtime to department employees, Card wrote to the auditors that pandemic requirements for schools given by the state changed frequently, leaving little time for plans to be made.
“Reviewing the history, many requirements were frequently imposed on schools by the state with no prior notice, and then were implemented via all means available by operational staff, including overtime,” he wrote. “There was a period of time that operational changes were mandated by the state and the Department of Health via an afternoon press conference, which did not allow any time for prior planning.”
He also wrote that he does not see the “constant state of emergency/emergency response,” to be a factor moving forward.
Auditors recommended that the Board of Education adopt a policy with clear guidelines for overtime work, including the pre-approval of all overtime. They also recommended that district officials make sure that all nonemergency overtime is pre-approved in writing, and that emergency overtime is documented with an approval form the next day, as required by the district policy.
In a statement sent out to district residents, Card explained that during the 2019-20 school year, the district implemented a four-step process for approving overtime which included oversight by department supervisors, building principals, and the director of facilities. The
district’s assistant superintendent for business and finance also is set to monitor overtime on a monthly basis to ensure consistency, and any noticeable deviation must be explained to the board.
Out of the four years reviewed on the audit, 2019-20 was the only year that the district didn’t go over in overtime. Exceeding the overtime in 2020-21, and 2021-22, can be explained due to the pandemic, Card said, because, “the approval protocols we established were disrupted due to the onset of the pandemic.”
In a statement from the Board of Education, they emphasized that the audit was done at random, and that nothing that the school district did caused them to be audited. They also pointed out that the funds used for the
overtime were not from the budget, but were actually from the CARES Act.
“The audit did not conclude that this was an unnecessary, unwarranted or excessive expense, solely that funds for this were not budgeted ahead of time,” the Board wrote. “This is particularly important given that the timeframe at issue was during the pandemic. It was impossible for the board, or any other school organization to budget for overtime expenses for a number of reasons.”
In the audit, Card wrote that he will accept and implement the recommendation of the auditors that the board should adopt a policy with clear guidelines for overtime work.
At the Progressive American Community Empowerment organization’s meet-and-greet last week at the Merrick Golf Course, it was clear that everyone in attendance was there for one reason: to promote a sense of togetherness and understanding of other cultures in Nassau County’s diverse communities.
In partnership with the South Merrick Community Civic Association and State Sen. Steve Rhoads’ office, dozens of people from several communities, ethnic groups and backgrounds that Rhoads represents came out on Feb. 23, to learn what PACE is all about, and how the organization helps minority communities find a voice in local issues.
Several other elected officials including State Assemblymen Dave McDonough and John Mikulin, County Legislator Tom McKevitt and Town Councilman Chris Carini also attended, to explain how they’re at the forefront of public concerns, and are always able to provide assistance, on issues big or small.
“This evening is about love — this evening is about coming together,” Saeed Hassan, chairman of PACE said at the meeting. “This would not have been possible without your presence, and we invited our elected members. They want to see you, so that this gives them encouragement to work harder for the community.”
Before the crowd had the opportunity to hear from elected officials, blessings were said and provided by local Islamic, Christian and Jewish leaders.
Joe Baker, president of the South Merrick Civic, said it was great to see so many people of different backgrounds in the room.
“It’s a wonderful thing that we are able to have so many different cultures, religions, ethnic groups get together, speak together and network together,” he said. “We’re going to continue this tradition — our model has always been neighbors helping neighbors.”
McDonough, who’s served the communities of Merrick, Bellmore, Wantagh and Seaford for 21 years, encouraged the crowd to remember that all of the elected officials in the room work as direct public servants. “Remember — we are there for you,” he said. “We are your employees. We will never turn you down.”
The main purpose of PACE, Hassan said, is to bring people together, while also working in several areas of public service.
It helps Islamic communities access food at Halal pantries, works with politicians on a number of topics, and encourages people in minority communities to vote, in not just national elections, but also local ones too.
“PACE believes in empowerment, to nutrition and social interaction for marginalized communities,” Hassan explained. “PACE is a nonprofit organization, with an objective to serve the community.”
Hassan added that PACE wants to
ensure that everyone in every community knows what their rights are, and knows how to get in touch with elected officials — hence the purpose of Thursday night’s meeting.
McKevitt, who represents North Merrick, North Bellmore, North Wantagh, East Meadow and Salisbury, spoke on some of the things he and colleagues at the legislature are responsible for, including the Nassau County Police Department, which accounts for onethird of the county’s budget. He said at both the local and state level, officials like him are fighting every day to repeal cashless bail, which can put repeat criminal offenders back on the street.
“What you have in front of you today is a bunch of public officials — we all do different things, we’re all responsive to you,” he added. “Call any of us, we’ll get you to the right place.”
The evening concluded with the crowd hearing from Rhoads, who like everyone else, was thankful for the turn out. Quoting Ronald Reagan, Rhoads said: “Our
origins matter less than our destinations.
“This is our country — we all came from somewhere,” Rhoads went on. “Whether you are from Pakistan, whether you are from India, whether you are from China — wherever you are from, you are now part of the beautiful fabric and the beautiful story that is America. As elected officials, it our job to help make this county of ours, this beautiful state of ours, this beautiful country of ours, your home.”
Empowering communities, he said, means being active and engaged in the issues that affect them, and as state senator, he’ll work to make sure residents understand that people like him and his colleagues are there to help.
“If there’s one message that I want to give to you, is that this is our community,” Rhoads said in closing.
“It’s all of our homes. It belongs to each and every one of us. We need to work together to make our communities stronger, to make our communities safer and to make our communities better.”
ThE PROgREssiVE AmERicAN Community Empowerment organization,
by Hassan, left, hosted a meet-and-greet with elected officals on Feb. 23 at the Merrick Golf Course to promote a sense of togetherness, diversity and inclusion.
mock interviews are just one requirement that the students need to complete to get NAF-certified.
Each student in the program gets matched up with a chamber member, East Meadow Kiwanis member, or other community leaders who act as their potential employer. The students come dressed to impress and are taught to put their best foot forward for the interview. Beforehand, each interviewer was given the student’s resume, a list of potential questions to ask and a rubric to grade them.
“The students are always excited but very nervous,” said Melissa Woisin, the advisor of the Business Honor Society who also teaches several business classes at East Meadow and Clarke. “It’s a great opportunity because it’s something that they’re going to do for the rest of their lives. It’s not something that it’s in a textbook, so for them this is a skill they can really see.”
Before the interviews took place, Hodish said that he and chamber members Debbie Kirsh, Mitchell Skoller, Anthony Bott, and Roxanne Rose visited the classes and talked to the students about resume building, dressing professionally, how to present themselves at an interview, and how to conduct research. Each student was told to research his or her potential future employer before the interviews to know what type of job they would be interviewing for, and to show that they
knew about the company.
“Research is very important, and it was pretty easy for the students because most of the people in the chamber are business people,” Hodish said. “(Researching) really shows a desire to get that particular job when you can impress the owner.”
Many of the community members who participated as potential future employers have done so for years. Steve LaSala, the commissioner of the East Meadow Baseball and Softball Association, has been participating for nearly a decade.
“I thought it was a great thing that the chamber was doing to help out the chil-
Elder law estate planning provides for (1) your care in the event you become disabled as you age, and who will be in charge of that care, and (2) the passing of your assets on death to whom you want, when you want, the way you want, with the least amount of taxes and legal fees possible. These are the five steps to creating such a plan.
Step One: Understanding the Family Dynamics. Clients often overlook the inestimable value of getting to know the family dynamic. We are firm believers that the social goes first and the legal should serve the social. Too often it is the other way around. Once we understand who’s who and everyone’s interpersonal relations with each other, we are far better able to craft a plan that will work socially as well as legally. The failure to address the social aspects has led to many a plan tearing the family apart.
Step Two: Reviewing the Client’s Assets. IRA’s and other “qualified” assets (i.e. tax deferred) are treated quite differently, on death or disability, from “non-qualified” assets. The determination of the amount and value of all assets, who owns them, and whether they have named beneficiaries are of the utmost importance in planning correctly,
including saving legal fees and taxes.
Step Three: Reviewing Existing Estate Planning Documents. Not having been prepared by an elder law attorney, clients’ documents rarely have adequate provisions to take advantage of the many benefits the law provides for our elderly population. Wills instead of trusts have often been prepared either because the client was considerably younger and a trust was not needed or a trust was needed but the general practice lawyer was unfamiliar with the specifics of preparing a trust.
Step Four: Developing the Elder Law Estate Plan. We are now in a position to determine which persons are best suited to handle your legal, financial and medical affairs on disability or death, what type of plan should be used and how the estate should be distributed — keeping in mind the preservation of harmony in the family.
Step Five: Executing and Maintaining the Plan. Legal documents are explained and executed, assets are retitled and beneficiaries on assets changed in keeping with planning objectives. The client is called in to the law firm every three years to ensure the plan meets the client’s current wishes and conforms with any law changes.
dren of our community,” LaSala said. “It’s great that we’re giving them some real life experience to what they could expect as they grow older. They’re always going to have to sell themselves, whether it’s to a college or to a job, and this helps them get a little experience.”
Toni McIntosh, the chairperson of the business and technology department for the district, said that the program is a great learning opportunity for the students.
“I just think the students are the most nervous in the beginning, none of them want to do it,” McIntosh said. “You don’t
want the first interview that you go on to be the job that you really want. Now, they’ve done that, they’ve gone on an interview, and they know that it’s not going to be much different in the future.”
After each interview, the interviewer grades the interviewee on how they presented themselves, how they spoke and dressed, and how well their resume was prepared. The students see the responses later in class.
“My favorite part is them realizing that they can do it,” Woisin said. “And that they have those skills, and just got a new skill set.”
The East Meadow School District is proud to announce that five high school students were named as finalists in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
The district congratulates W.T. Clarke High School students Matthew Vo and Shree Satpathy, and East Meadow High School students Addison Baroukh, Sarah Chacko and Jorell Quiriones on earning this distinction.
East Meadow’s scholars are among some 15,000 semifinalists nationwide who have advanced to finalist standing. All winners of Merit Scholarship awards are chosen from the finalist group based on their abilities, skills and accomplishments — without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin or religious preference.
NMSC, a nonprofit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 400 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.
DIANE
BANKING & FINANCE
ANDIE PERLMUTTER
COO, Associate General Agent Forest Hills Financial Group
DAVI TSERPELIS
SVP Business Banking Manager City National Bank
ADVERTISING, MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS
SANDRA BRENNAN
CEO & Founder Senior Living Renaissance, LLC
VALENTINA JANEK
Founder Long Island Breakfast Club & Show
JESIKA KALIKA
Marketing Communications & Business Development Consultant
LISA MIRABILE
President & Founder
Vertigo Media Group
EDUCATION
MARIA P. CONZATTI
Interim President
Nassau Community College
BARBARA J. HOLAHAN
CFO, VP for Financial Affairs & Treasurer
New York Institute of Technology
MARYANNE HYLAND
Dean of the Robert B. Willumstad
School of Business Adelphi University
MAURIE McINNIS
President
Stony Brook University
ENERGY & ELECTRIC
JENNIFER HAYEN
Director of Communications
Long Island Power Authority
MICHELLE D. SOMERS
Marketing Manager
PSEG Long Island
ENTREPRENEURS
JOSEPHINE FITZPATRICK
Nutrition & Weight Loss Specialist
Innovation Weight Loss & Healthy Market
ELLEN PELLEGRINO
Entrepreneur/Movie Producer
Windows on the Lake Beach Club Estate
Age of New Beginnings
MAUREEN TARA NELSON
CEO
MTN Matchmaking
GOVERNMENT
LISA M. BLACK
Chief Deputy County Executive
Office of the Suffolk County Executive
HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS
MELANIE BASILE
Chief Growth Officer
The Smilist
DR. MICHELLE A. CHESTER
Senior Director Operations, Occupational Health Services
Northwell Health
DR. GAIL CORREALE
Optometrist
THERESA DILLMAN, DNP (C), MSN, MHA, RN, NE-BC
Associate Executive Director and Chief Nursing Officer Glen Cove Hospital, Northwell Health System
DR. ODETTE R. HALL
Chief Medical Examiner
Suffolk County Office of the Medical Examiner
NITZA KAHALON HASIS
Clinical Director
New Horizon Counseling Center - Valley Stream
STEPHANIE MONTANO M.S., CCC-SLP
CEO & Co-Owner
Theralympic Speech
CHRISTIANA NEOPHYTOU M.S., CCC-SLP
CEO & Co-Owner
Theralympic Speech
REBECCA SANIN
President & CEO
Health & Welfare Council of Long Island
JULIE WEXLER
Director of Business Development
The Bristal Assisted Living
HUMAN RESOURCES
ELIZABETH MARIE SAITTA
Executive Director
SHRM Long Island Chapter
INSURANCE
CATIA ALATI
Vice President
Lockton Companies
LEGAL
PAULA PARRINO, ESQ.
Chief Administrative Officer & Vice President of Operations
Nationwide Court Services, Inc.
STEPHANIE A. CLARK, ESQ.
Lead Attorney
Law Offices of Stephanie A. Clark
ERIKA L. CONTI, ESQ.
Partner Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC
DEANNA M. EBLE, ESQ.
Partner
Russo Law Group, P.C.
LAUREL R. KRETZING
Partner
Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP
KAREN J. TENENBAUM, ESQ.
Tax Attorney
Tenenbaum Law, P.C.
DINA L. VESPIA, ESQ.
Partner
Cullen and Dykman LLP
NICOLE L. WEINGARTNER
Director of State Government Affairs
Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP
MEDIA
DANA ARSCHIN KRASLOW
2x Emmy-Winning Journalist
Holocaust Storyteller
The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County (HMTC)
MIMI BISHOP & JACKIE GHEDINE
Co-Founders
Modern Gen X Woman
PEI-SZE CHENG
Emmy® Award-winning reporter
NBC 4 New York’s investigative unit, the I-Team
MUSIC
DR. YEOU-CHENG MA
Executive Director
The Children’s Orchestra Society
TERRI ALESSI-MICELI
President & CEO
HIA-LI
ELIZABETH EINHART
Executive Director & Vice President
The Theresa Foundation
THERESA SANDERS
President & CEO
Urban League of Long Island Inc.
TAMMY SEVERINO
President & CEO
Girl Scouts of Suffolk County
STACEY SIKES
Vice President of Government Affairs & Communications
Long Island Association
TOURISM
KRISTEN REYNOLDS
President & CEO
Discover Long Island
TRANSPORTATION
SHELLEY LaROSE-ARKEN
Aviation Commissioner
Long Island MacArthur Airport
SPECIAL AWARDS
LEGACY AWARD
MEREDITH WALDNER STERN
President
Waldner’s Business Environments
NEXT GENERATION: UNDER 30
KATHLEEN DONNELLY
Senior Associate
Long Island Architecture Studio, DPC
LIANNE WEBB
Miss Long Island 2023
Miss Long Island Pageants
RISING TEEN AWARD
NATALIA SUAZA
Miss Long Island Teen 2023
Miss Long Island Pageants
TRAILBLAZER AWARD
DANI RYLAN KEARNEY
Founder National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL)
MAJOR SPONSORS:
GOLD SPONSOR:
By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com
The job of someone in real estate goes beyond just helping clients buy, sell or rent properties. For many professionals, it is about the rewarding feeling of finding a person or family’s “forever” home, and seeing their faces light up as they walk through the door.
Individuals in the industry often strive to offer listings or create developments with the goal of enhancing a community and providing potential homebuyers with a lifestyle they have always dreamed of.
The importance of community involvement and advocacy could not ring more true in the room of hundreds of real estate titans and visionaries at RichnerLive’s second annual Real Estate Achievement and Leadership Awards last week at The Heritage Club at Bethpage in Farmingdale.
Turn the page for all the winners, and more photos!
“Real estate in my blood,” said Kevin Law, partner and executive vice president of Tritec Real Estate, and the keynote speaker of the evening. “I care about this island — I am hoping that the things I do can make a difference, and make this region a little bit better to live, work and play.”
This year’s REAL Awards honored dozens of professionals in residential and commercial real estate, with some proceeds from the event supporting Habitat for Humanity Long Island — a global non-profit organization whose mission is to bring people together to build affordable, environmentally stable homes for those in need.
Jennie Katz, president and owner of Blue Island Homes, said in her 27 years in the business, the room for creativity is what she finds the most exciting as a broker. For example, she and her business partner, Mark Stempel, are planning to collaborate with interior designers and decorators to stage a truck with all of Blue Island Homes’s listings.
“I started my own business with Mark 10 months ago, and it was about being creative and doing something different,” Katz said. “It’s about passion. It’s about working really hard and being honest.”
Michael Stanco, a licensed real estate broker for the Stanco Misiti team at Compass, talked about his special project, The Residences at Glen Harbor, which received a residential REAL Award at the event.
In the ever-changing housing market, Stanco said it is crucial to provide people with unique living opportunities such as The Residences at Glen Harbor — an alternative option to typical single-family homes.
Anthony Bartone, managing partner of Terwilliger and Bartone Properties, expressed a similar sentiment and discussed his philosophy of mindfulness when introducing projects to Long Island neighborhoods — specifically the environmental impact.
For example, Bartone’s organization pledged to only use native plantings in their developments because of the harmful risk invasive plants pose to the soil.
“It’s important that we set all this up to the extent we can for our next generation,” Bartone said.
The REAL Awards trailblazer Deidre O’Connell — chief executive of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty — grabbed the audience’s attention with her inspirational speech about Realtors pushing through pandemic obstacles these last few years.
She also shared some wisdom for the next generation of homebuyers who may feel a bit anxious when it comes to the prospect of living on Long Island. Statistically, people who buy homes accumulate more money at the end — money they would not have if they put it into renting a place, where there is no return.
“You got to get in the game,” O’Connell said. “Young people have to start at the bottom if their income isn’t going to get them in at the top. Once you’re in the game, you appreciate with the market.”
The major sponsors of the night included Easy Tax Credits, Tenantbase and Maidenbaum. Blue Island Homes, Coldwell Banker American Homes and E.W. Howell were gold sponsors of the evening.
Silver sponsors included Ackerman Law, Breslin Realty Development Corp., Coldwell Banker Distinctive Homes, Cronin & Cronin Law Firm, Cushman & Wakefield, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, Douglas Elliman, GLS, Habitat Abstract, Hayduk Engineering, Heatherwood, Japan Schlesinger Narendran, Lipsky Construction, Long Island Board of Realtors, M&T Bank, Property Shark, R&M Engineering, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz,
SMR, Stanco Misiti Team at Compass, Terwilliger & Bartone Properties, The Gitto Group, Valley Bank, Weatherstone Mortgage Corp.
“Our second annual REAL awards was another huge success,” exclaimed Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications, which created the REAL Awards. “Where else can you find so many individuals and organizations that fuel our local economy? The award recipients are staples in our communities, and their recognition is well-deserved. I am excited to see all that the future holds for
FAthER/ dAughtER
tEAm giLbERt and Tiffany Balanoff, above, were recognized for Gilbert’s work with The Law Offices of Gilbert Balanoff, and Tiffany’s job as a licensed real estate agent at Douglas Elliman.
miRiAm hAgEndoRn gEts her REAL Award from Stuart Richner, at left, for her work as a licensed real estate salesperson a Serhant.
The Residences at Glen Harbor
Michael W. Stanco
Stanco Misiti Team at Compass
Gina Marie Bettenhauser
Coldwell Banker Distinctive Homes Long Island Board of Realtors
Hilary Becker Becker Realty Services Inc.
Molly Deegan Branch Real Estate Group
John & Barbara Gandolfo
Coldwell Banker American Homes
Kevin Leatherman Leatherman Homes
Donna O’Reilly Einemann
Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Luciane Serifovic Luxian International Realty
Shawn Steinmuller
Shawn Michael Realty
Mark Stempel & Jennie Katz Blue Island Homes
Helena Veloso
Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Malka Asch Coach Realtors
Miriam Hagendorn Serhant
Ricki Noto Coldwell Banker American Homes
Scott Wallace
Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty
David Kasner Coldwell Banker American Homes
Thomas DeLuca Cushman & Wakefield of Long Island
Anthony Bartone
Terwilliger & Bartone Properties LLC
Kenneth Breslin, Esq. Breslin Realty Development Corp.
Christopher Capece
Heatherwood
Rob Gitto
The Gitto Group
Mark Meisner
The Birch Group
E.W. Howell Construction Group
Michael Maturo
RXR Realty
Martin Lomazow CBRE
Michael S. Ackerman Ackerman Law PLLC
John D. Chillemi
Ruskin Moscou Faltischek PC
Bryan P. McCrossen
Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP
Christopher H. Palmer Cullen and Dykman LLP
Ellen N. Savino
Sahn Ward Braff Koblenz PLLC
Commercial Industrial Broker Society of Long Island
David Pennetta
Stephen A. Hayduk Hayduk Engineering LLC
Gilbert Balanoff
The Law Offices of Gilbert Balanoff PC
Tiffany Balanoff
Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Nicholas Ceccarini
Weatherstone Mortgage Corp.
Christine Curiale Valley Bank
Melissa Curtis Contour Mortgage
Michael Steinberg
Hedgestone Business Advisors
Alex Lipsky
Lipsky Construction
Sean M. Cronin, Esq. Cronin & Cronin Law Firm PLLC
Ryan J. Coyne Serhant
VincePropertyShark PropertyShark.com
Habitat Abstract
When Randi Shubin Dresner was 8, she raised her hand during a school assembly — and that one action shaped the course of her life.
The assembly, at McVey Elementary School in East Meadow, was focused on the March of Dimes, an organization that works to improve the health of mothers and babies. Representatives were there to talk about an upcoming walk-a-thon, and they asked students if they wanted to serve as school representatives for the event. Shubin Dresner didn’t hesitate to raise her hand.
“I raised my hand at 8 years old, and I never put it down again,” she said. “I volunteered through my entire childhood at the March of Dimes, as well as a couple of other organizations.”
Shubin Dresner, now 62, is the president and chief executive officer of Island Harvest, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization, based in Melville. The food bank has a wide variety of programs to help feed those in need, from children to seniors and veterans.
She started there in 2001, after meeting longtime Island Harvest board member Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications and publisher of the Heralds, in an elevator at a networking event. At the time, Shubin Dresner was working at the Heckscher Museum of Art. She talked to Richner about the possibility of sponsoring an event the museum was having.
“In the time it took to go from one floor to the next, I introduced myself, told him about the organization that I worked with, and almost got him to become a sponsor of the event,” she recalled. “He is and was a board member at Island Harvest, and went back to the organization and said, ‘I just met this person — you better call her and recruit her to come to Island Harvest.’”
Shubin Dresner said that she turned the job down more
than once before deciding to make the switch to the food bank. “It was an interesting mission that I could relate to, and it was a very small organization at the time,” she said.
“I was encouraged by the fact that the board recognized that there was a lot of growth potential, and the board put a lot of trust in me and my vision for the organization.”
Island Harvest wasn’t the first time she explored her potential as a leader. Shubin Dresner has been in the nonprofit sector her whole life. In middle school, she started her own March of Dimes chapter in her basement, and recruited her friends.
“I just liked what they were talking about,” she recalled.
“I liked their enthusiasm, and their excitement about the work they were doing, and I wanted to be part of it.”
At 17, she became a full-time employee at March of Dimes. And from there, she never looked back. Before landing at Island Harvest, she spent time at the Viscardi Center, in Albertson, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, among other organizations. At the National MS Society, she served as executive director of the Nassau County chapter, and at just 23, she transformed it from a failing organization to an award-winning chapter.
“I knew from an early age that this was going to be my career,” Shubin Dresner said. “I loved doing fundraising, I loved presenting and talking at groups, and giving back to the community, and creating programs that support that community.”
Many of her early career years were shaped by her time at the March of Dimes and the role models she met there — especially the organization’s executive director at the time, Lottie Seligman.
“In the mid- to late ’60s, there weren’t a lot of women in business,” Shubin Dresner said. “I watched (Seligman) and tried to model her in my early years of building my career. The women who were the directors and managers at the organization really taught me a lot. I had really incredible women models in my career.”
Now, at Island Harvest, she prides herself on the relationship she has with the board of directors, and how much she’s been able to involve her family in her lifelong mission of helping others.
“I’m honored to be in this work,” she said. “I’m honored to have this opportunity to work at organizations for an entire career that has an impact on changing lives.”
After dozens of hearings, months of public input and several heated exchanges among Nassau County lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, a final district map drawing out borders for the 19 legislative districts for the next 10 years has finally passed.
All 11 Republicans of the majority voted for the map, while seven Democratic minority members voted in opposition. For those on the wrong side of the vote, it was a disappointing — but inevitable — end to community members and Democratic officials who have been vocal over their claims of partisan gerrymandering.
“Tomorrow morning, students in Nassau County are going to wake up to a snow day,” Democratic legislator Josh Lafazan said ahead of the region’s first real snowfall of the season. “This legislative body is going to wake up to a lawsuit.
“Our constituents lose tonight, and nobody wins.”
Before the evening vote, some members of the community gathered to express final pleas for the Nassau County Legislature to not approve the map. They claim the map fails to include five majority-minority districts, it violates state and federal voting laws, neglects to consider racial demographics, and dilutes minority votes in communities such as Lakeview and Freeport.
In fact, dozens of Lakeview residents turned up at a previous public hearing sharing stories of their fight for equality and fair representation.
The current map places Lakeview — a predominantly Black community of more than 6,200 people — in a district with predominantly white communities likeMalverne, Lynbrook, West Hempstead and East Rockaway.
Scottie Coads said the hearts of her Lakeview neighbor are “hurting” because of this decision.
“I almost went to tears when I saw our hard work being put into a district with Lynbrook and Malverne,” Coads said. “Those people don’t even want us there. They don’t even talk to us.”
Doris Hicks Newkirk, president of the Lakeview NAACP and former educator in the Malverne school district, said she knows of young Black students who have been told to “go back where they came from,” and called racial slurs.
Lisa Ortiz, one of the founding members of the Lakeview Civic Association, talked about how the Malverne district became the first in the state to be forced into desegregation — more than a decade after the national Brown v. Board of Education decision.
For more than 60 years, many representatives of Lakeview and the school district fought to have a street name of a Ku Klux Klan leader removed — only recently accomplishing this feat.
Fast forward to today, the redistricting process is another hurdle the Lakeview community is not backing down on.
“When we think about disenfranchis-
ing — when you think about gerrymandering — you think about making sure that you are silencing a community that has a very, very loud voice,” Ortiz said.
“That’s exactly what you’re doing.”
County legislature minority leader Kevan Abrahams called out his Republican colleagues for choosing secrecy over transparency during the redistricting process, especially when it came to the legal fees for the analysis provided by Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders LLP.
“We have the power and the authority tonight to do the right thing,” Abrahams said. “Unfortunately, this map is going to go forward, and this body is choosing to vote for a map that is illegal. None of us want this. I’d rather things get worked out, because ultimately, the lawsuit is
going to cost taxpayers money.”
But presiding officer Richard Nicolello said numerous changes were made to the map to acknowledge this input. He also admitted not every request was addressed in the final proposal, but in the end, the district lines were considered fair and applicable to state and federal laws.
“Did we make every requested change? No. Is this map perfect? No. But perfection is impossible in redistricting,” Nicolello said. “This map is a fair map. It provides for equal representation for all our residents, and protects community interests as much as possible.”
sCOTTie COAds Of Lakeview expresses her anger over countywide district maps at several public hearings before Nassau County lawmakers ahead of them passing a final proposal late last month. For decades, Coads has fought for fair representation in Lakeview, a predominantly Black community placed in a district with Malverne, Lynbrook and East Rockaway.
NAssAU COUNTy LegisLATOR and Democratic minority leader Kevan Abrahams joined his political colleagues voting against a proposed countywide redistricting map last month. The votes weren’t enough, but Abrahams wanted to be on the record for his claims the map represented partisan gerrymandering while violating voting rights protections for minority communities.
By Karen Bloom
Smitten by chocolate, and so much more. Temptations await at the Chocolate Expo’s latest edition, ready to entice everyone on March 12.
By Karen BloomThe popular event is back on Long Island to delight chocoholics at its new location — Hofstra University’s David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex in Hempstead, for a day-long foodie paradise. More than 80 vendors — representing Long Island, New England and elsewhere, even international purveyors — will share their sweet and savory wares during this unique foodcentric festival.
• Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Sunday, March 12, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Tickets are $20 adult, $15 ages 5-12 or $30 adult, $15 ages 5-12 at door; available from TheChocolateExpo.com
• Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, South Campus, Hempstead. For information and to RSVP, call (516) 463-5672, or visit Hofstra.edu/museum
• Hofstra University, David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex, Hempstead
Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines power of the arts in society.
Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence. the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to which runs through July 28, is in conjunction with Hofstra’s conference on the Barack Obama presidency coming up in April. interested in the idea that the artist has a civic responsibility,” says Karen Albert. “The initial idea for this exhibition was inspired by Administration White House briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, 60 artists and creative organizers met with administration officials to collective power of the arts to build community, create change, and chart national recovery in the areas of social justice, civic participation and unlike other recent exhibits that showcased the museum’s collection, Giordano reached out to contemporary artists who loaned selected works. Some 36 pieces are on view — representing Emma Amos, Molly Crabapple and the Equal Justice Initiative, Miguel Luciano, Michele Pred, Hank Willis Thomas, and Sophia climate is now, this exhibit could not be more timely than Albert adds. highlights, she points to the series of prints from the Freedoms. Their four large scale photos are based on 1943 oil paintings inspired by President Franklin D. State of the Union address that outlined what he essential four democratic values freedom of speech, worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. For interpreted these iconic works for our era. composition,” Albert says. “From 1940s America, what America is today, our diversity and what we look museum offers additional enhance the exhibit experience. include an artist panel on Feb. 23, the role of the artist as activist, and a Alexandra Giordano, March 16.
Founder Marvin Baum says this year’s event includes many first-time vendors as well as a diversity of offerings — even some for your beloved pooch. As Baum puts it: “People take care of themselves with special treats, so why not let your pet enjoy some, too?
Visitors can celebrate and indulge in gourmet chocolates, baked goods, specialty items, cheeses, wines, spirits, hard ciders, craft sodas, and much more. Of course tasting is very much a part of it all — starting from the moment you enter. Guests are greeted by fountains overflowing with dark, white and milk chocolates, in which a selection of fresh fruit, marshmallows pretzels and Rice Krispies treats can be deliciously drenched.
“When you go to these festivals, you remember something you tried that you can’t get elsewhere,” Baum says. “That’s what we try to do with this.”
Participating chocolatiers offer chocolate bonbons, chocolate bars,
raw chocolate, hot chocolate, chocolate fudge, chocolate novelties, chocolate barks and chocolate-covered goodies, chocolatecovered soft pretzels, even chocolatecovered bacon. Cupcakes, brownies, doughnuts, and assorted cakes are showcased along with other gluten-free offerings and other baked goods, while hot cocoa, wine, and hard ciders, and even chocolate moonshine, will be among the craft beverages available for tasting and purchase.
Pat McGann is quickly rising as one of the sharpest stand-ups on the comedy scene. A relative latecomer to comedy, he began doing standup at 31 after realizing he was not very good at selling packaging. He hustled his way to become the house emcee at Zanies Chicago, where he distinguished himself as especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father of three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage. In 2017, McGann began touring as the opening act for Sebastian Maniscalco, moving with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square Garden. McGann’s relatively short, but impressive resume, includes Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival, and more. McGann still calls Chicago home.
Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Lightwire Theater brings a classic tale to the modern stage. Since bursting to national acclaim after appearing as semi-finalists on ‘America’s Got Talent’ and winning the top honors on truTV’s ‘Fake Off,’ Lightwire has gone on to enthrall audiences worldwide with their unique combination of skill and grace as told through the technological innovations of moving light characters. In this unforgettable theatrical experience — created with electroluminescent wire — the beloved story of ‘The Ugly Duckling’ plays out through a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance. Ideally suited to kids through Grade 6, all ages will enjoy this innovative re-imagining of the beloved tale, with its dazzling visuals, poignant choreography and creative use of music ranging from classical to pop.
Saturday, March 11, 11 a.m. $28. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.
“We’re really excited to be here,” Baum says, noting that his chocolate-fest has emerged from the pandemic renewed and reinvigorated. “We love to work with local vendors and support new businesses by introducing people to them.”
These include: The Best Goody Bag, a Valley Stream baker of custom birthday cakes and other birthday-related treats; Peace Love & Hot Chocolate, a purveyor of gourmet hot chocolate kits, based in Island Park; Uncle Jeff’s Pecan Pies, a Wantagh baker, who’s all about pie — pecan pie that defies imagination; and West Hempstead’s Sunflower Bake Shop, which specializes in kosher and vegan baked goods.
If your palate reaches sensory overload, take a break for a while and check out some of the many activities that round out the day. Magician Eric Wilzig, of “America’s Got Talent” fame, performs two high-energy “extreme” magic shows on the Expo stage. Actor Paris Themmen — who starred as Mike TeeVee in the original “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” film — is on the scene to greet guests from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., plus he does an interview noon, followed by audience Q&A.
Also appearing is chef Francis Legge, a winner of Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay” and a contestant on Netflix’s “Snack vs. Chef,” who will do an on-stage demonstration, while Long Island’s DJ Chef, who won Food Network’s “Cuthroat Kitchen,” does his “Beats & Sweets Interactive Cooking Show,” combining his passions for food and music. Kids will enjoy face painting and balloon twisting activities in the Kidz Zone, along with chocolate-themed crafts.
Now in its 18th year, Adelphi University’s ‘new music’ series welcomes Yarn/Wire. The intrepid New York-based piano-percussion quartet has forged a singular path with endlessly inventive collaborations, commissions and performances that have made a significant contribution to the canon of experimental works. The quartet features founding member Laura Barger and Julia Den Boer on piano and Russell Greenberg, also a founding member, and Sae Hashimoto playing percussion. Barger is a frequent guest with many top American contemporary ensembles. French-American Den Boer performs internationally as a soloist and chamber musician. Greenberg is in demand with varied ensembles. Hashimoto, the newest member, contributes a unique approach to performance cultivated by her intensive classical training .
Friday, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m. $30 with discounts available to seniors, students, alumni and employees. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.
The Sicilian Tenors bring their dynamic sound to Tilles Center, ready to put their spin on the classics, and so much more. The three classically trained tenors sing their own interpretations of some of the world’s best music in this lively evening. It’s a journey from Hollywood to Broadway to Italy as these operatic voices perform a wide selection of beloved songs. Combined with light-hearted fun, Aaron Caruso, Elio Scaccio and Sam Vitale put on an appealing show for everyone — all ages and musical tastes. They are a fresh and accessible take on the great Italian musical tradition. Always in demand, their special blend of classic opera and Broadway hits, along with Rat Pack-type shenanigans is a consistent crowdpleaser.
Saturday, March 18, 8 p.m. $52, $42, $32. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or TillesCenter.org.
change the world? It’s a question been at the focus of our collective centuries. Now as society the complexities of modern life, path for social change is at the of artistic expression.Courtesy Hofstra Universally Museum of Art Rockwell’s celebrated ‘Four Freedoms’ are reinHank Willis Thomas and Emily Shur in Gottesman and the Wyatt Gallery. Courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York. Thomas, ‘Lives of Others,’ 2014, made resin and standing 57 inches tall
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau offers a hands-on pruning workshop, Saturday, March 18, 10 a.m. to noon, at East Meadow Farm, at 832 Merrick Ave., in East Meadow. The workshop will include a talk on basic pruning techniques, what to look for while pruning, and more. To register, or for more information visit reg.cce.cornell.edu/ pruningworkshop-2023_228.
Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support, 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. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure a spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.
The singer-songwriter visits the Landmark stage, Saturday, April 1, 8 p.m. Nestled somewhere between power-pop and American folk you will find Willie Nile strumming his guitar. A true believer in rock n’ roll, over the years Nile has made admirers out of Bruce Springsteen and Pete Townshend who personally requested him to tour with The Who, among others who sing his praises. The New York Times called him “one of the most gifted singer-songwriters to emerge from the New York scene in years.” Nile shares the stage with James Maddock; their pairing results in an exciting evening of roots rock. $42, $36, $31. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.
Get your groove on at Salsa Latina Dance Studio, at 388 Merrick Avenue, in East Meadow, every Thursday, to learn how to Latin Hip-Hop dance with Matt at 6:30 p.m. There is a free trial class for all new students. No partner, and no experience needed to enjoy this experience. Parking is in the back of the studio. For more information, contact Edwin at (516) 902-7368 or email edwinguerrero352@gmail.com.
Mo Willems’ popular The Pigeon comes alive on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Saturday, March 11, 11:30 a.m.; Thursday and Friday, March 16-17, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Pigeon is eager to try anything, with the audience part of the action. LICM, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or
Get your game on at a weekly bingo game at East Meadow Beth-El Jewish Center at 1400 Prospect Ave., in East Meadow, starting at 6 p.m. Prizes, progressive games, bell jar prizes and refreshments will be provided. Proof of vaccination is required. For information, contact (516) 483-4205
The Council of East Meadow Community Organizations hosts a special meeting, Wednesday, March 15, 7 p.m., at East Meadow High School’s Little Theater,101 Carman Ave., East Meadow. “Keep our Kids Drug Free” will feature Nassau County Police Officer and Drug Recognition Expert John ObertThorn talking to attendees about current drug trends, drug use and the developing brain, and warning signs of drug use and strategies to help prevent drug abuse and addiction. This is the second time Obert-Thorn will be giving his informative presentation. Any questions, contact President Joe Parisi at (516) 542-7609.
StepCrew brings their Celtic flair to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center stage, Saturday, March 11 , 7:30 p.m. The talented cast of dancers and musicians is led by Long Island’s Cara Butler and the Pilatzke Brothers, Jon and Nathan. All three are longtime touring members of the acclaimed The Chieftains.
The StepCrew boasts Celtic and World music from three worldclass fiddle players backed by a five-piece ensemble, featuring three dance styles — Irish, Tap, and Ottawa Valley step dance. Tickets start at $55, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 8774000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.
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.
The 12th annual All Kids Fair returns to Samanea Mall, Sunday, April 23, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 1504 Old Country Road, Westbury. With bounce houses, petting zoos, face painting, balloon animals, cotton candy, child ID kits, and more. To purchase tickets in advance visit allkidsfair.com/tickets.
Support East Meadow Kiwanis’s annual Name that Tune fundraiser, Friday, March 31, at East Meadow Fire Department Headquarters. Doors are open from 7 to 11 p.m.; game starts at 8 p.m., at 197 East Meadow Ave. Price is $45 per person for food, beer, soda, coffee, and dessert. Prizes for the winning team, along with raffles, 50/50 and more. RSVP by March 15 to Harry Demiris Jr. at (516) 317-4726.
Enjoy an evening of IrishAmerican songs, dancing, and surprises, at East Meadow United Methodist Church, Saturday March 11, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., featuring the Gilbert and Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island. Light fare will be available along with raffles and 50/50, at 470 East Meadow Road. Admission is $25 per person and can be purchased at Gaslocoli.org.
Plaza Theatrical is ready to spring forward with “Forever Plaid,” an affectionate musical homage to the close harmony guy groups that reached the height of their popularity during the ‘50s, Saturday, March 18, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, March 19, 2:30 p.m.; Thursday, March 23, 2 p.m. The show features such hits as “Three Coins in a Fountain,” “Heart and Soul,” “Catch a Falling Star,” and “Love is A Many Splendored Thing.” It’s performed at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $49, $45 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.
Everyone’s favorite cat comes to mischievous life in this theatrical adaptation of the Dr. Seuss classic, presented Plaza Theatrical Productions, Saturday, March 11, 11 a.m.; Sunday, March 12, noon. See what goes on during that rainy day when two siblings are home alone with their pet fish while their parents are out of town, and the tall cat wearing a hat appears. Tickets are $15. Visit the Plaza stage at The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Avenue, Bellmore. For information/tickets, go to PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870.
It’s been a little more than a year since Bruce Blakeman officially took office as Nassau County executive. Since then, how much has life improved for the nearly 1.4 million people living under his administration?
Significantly. At least according to Blakeman, thanks to his work with the majority party in the Nassau County Legislature. Triumphs Blakeman shared as part of his Feb. 28 State of the County address.
And there was a lot on Blakeman’s plate, after taking over for Laura Curran — not all that could be handled at the county level. Inflation. Catalytic converter theft. Support for local businesses. Bringing Nassau out of the Covid-19 era. And challenging some proposals that had made their way down from Albany.
“Our administration increased the boost (of the) Nassau Main Street grants program by an additional $10 million to support small businesses and keep family-owned businesses in Nassau County,” Blakeman said. He also met with professionals and entrepreneurs from a number of communities to begin work on expanding opportunities “for all people so that every community in every person — Black, white, Asian, Hispanic and Latino — share in our county’s prosperity.”
It is important to invest in local business because Nassau is bigger than 10 states by population, and has a higher gross domestic product than 145 countries, Blakeman said. And there is something in the works that could shake this up even more — the proposed plan to bring a Las Vegas Sands casino to the Nassau Coliseum.
“We are considering this proposal, and I have consistently stated that we would keep an open mind,” Blakeman said. But there are conditions.
“It must be world-class, with a luxury hotel and entertainment component,” he said. “It must bring significant
In HIS StAtE of the County speech on Feb. 28, Nassau executive Bruce Blakeman praised what he described as a successful first year in office, giving credit to law enforcement and the county legislature for working with him on a number of initiatives to help bring some of his campaign promises to fruition.
revenue to the county and surrounding areas, including construction and permanent jobs. And third, it must have the support of the community.”
A cornerstone of the Blakeman administration has been tackling the mass thefts of catalytic converters in Nassau. Some of that concluded in December with “Operation Cat-Track,” partnering with Nassau County Police Department commissioner Patrick Ryder to recover $7 million worth of stolen converters. The operation, Blakeman added, put a significant dent on an organized crime ring responsible for the thefts.
“I especially want to thank Sen. Chuck Schumer for
asking the Department of Justice to help us and send a special response team to mobilize and to help crack down on these thefts,” Blakeman said.
While the Republican executive crossed party lines to praise Schumer, he still had some harsh words for Joe Biden, blaming the president’s border policies for the current fentanyl crisis.
Democrats closer to home — in his county legislature took issue with some of what Blakeman said, specifically where the credit should go for the positive direction in the last year.
“While we got off to a very rocky start when the county executive first took office, there has been some progress,” County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said as part of the Democratic response. “I am glad to report that minority-led proposals have been adopted, including a gas tax holiday, (and) tax relief for eligible seniors and disabled homeowners. And just this Monday, property tax exemptions for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.”
However, DeRiggi-Whitton hit Blakeman over the ongoing county tax assessment issue, which remains frozen. Blakeman maintained in the speech that much of the issue with tax assessment is still the fault of the Curran administration, which froze it during the pandemic.
As for fentanyl? DeRiggi-Whitton agreed the crisis must be addressed, but isn’t spending time pointing fingers.
“With fentanyl overdoses posing such a major threat, the Minority Caucus has introduced a law which would require low-cost fentanyl detecting strips to be included in every Narcan kit distributed by a county agency,” she said of the packages used to help save lives of those suffering opioid overdoses.
“Even though we have seen the potential of this approach in towns, cities and states across the United States, there has been no action by the majority on our proposal to date.”
Michael Malaszczyk/Herald
By MALLORY WILSON mwilson@liherald.com
In an ever-changing world, with new technological advances coming out nearly everyday, it’s important for businesses to be in the know on how to best promote their business.
Whether its an updated website, or how to get the most reviews, business owners need to know how to best market themselves, and that’s why the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce had Brian LeDonne from PS Digital LI, an internet marketing service, come down to speak to business owners at its monthly meeting on March 1.
“There are people out there that do know what’s available to them, but there are some that don’t,” James Skinner Jr., chamber president, said. “Especially with the older generation, back then it was word of mouth, that’s how you mostly got business, or the Yellow Pages, but it’s a lot different now.”
LeDonne dove right into his presentation and talked about the five critical elements that go into building a solid digital presence foundation. The importance of having a logo and creating brand awareness, claiming, optimizing, and managing your Google Business Profile, building a mobile-optimized, lead-generating website, using Google ads to stimulate growth within a business, and generating, and obtaining positive reviews, are the five main keys of having a good digital business footprint.
“It’s changing so frequently,” Skinner Jr., said. “If you don’t have somebody that’s on top of it, and know what’s changing and what’s upcoming like (LeDonne), then you’re going to get left behind.”
LeDonne started by searching the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce on Google to see what it looked
like when it came up. From there, he searched up other East Meadow businesses to see what their Google profile looked like. A few businesses were top notch, while others admitted they theirs could be better.
East Meadow businesses Inspect-It 1st Property Inspections, the Krug Team at Century 21 American Homes, and A&C Pest Management for example, have stellar digital presences. Inspect-It 1st has five stars and more than 450 reviews, the Krug Team has five 5.0 stars and 41 Google reviews, and A&C Pest Management has 401 Google reviews, and 4.9 stars, which LeDonne said he thinks might be better than a 5.0.
“The reason why I always say this is because sometimes when you look at a bunch of reviews with a five star average, you’re like I don’t know something seems a little sketchy,” LeDonne said. “4.9, you guys bleed, you guys are real.”
What makes a good Google presence, he said, is having all of the prompts filled out including phone number, address, and website. Another important aspect is having reviews, and replying to them.
“You should do it amongst each other,” LeDonne said. “You could give your professional opinion and all of you know each other very will, so it’s a great starting point.”
Skinner Jr. said that it took A&C Pest Management a long time and a lot of work to get where it is now. “It’s not something that’s just going to happen overnight, that’s for sure,” he said. “You have to stay on top of it. There’s some companies that go ahead and they get reviews and they get a lot of bad reviews, and they don’t stay on top it, so that’s probably one of the key points.”
LeDonne told chamber members that if they wanted help getting control of their Google business that he would help them claim and verify their business, and mobile optimize it for them for free.
BRIAN LeDONNe fROM PS Digital LI, an internet marketing service, came down to the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce meeting on March 1 to give chamber members some tips on how to better their business’s digital footprint.
Mallory Wilson/Herald
Help protect yourself from fraud and scams! This FREE webinar series will cover identity theft, elder fraud abuse and how to recognize the warning signs. Representatives from AARP Long Island and United States Postal Inspectors will also provide information about scams targeting people age 50-plus and their families, tactics fraudsters use, and resources available to help fraud.
Advance registration is required.
THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2023
12-1PM
IDENTITY THEFT:
Each year thousands of Americans fall victim to Identity (ID) Theft. Consumers reported losing nearly $8.8 Billion to scams in 2022. This webinar will focus on:
• Understanding Personal Identifiable Information (PII)
• Scams that target your PII
• Tips to safeguard your identity
REGISTER at www.LIHERALD.com/identity
THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2023
12-1PM
ELDER FRAUD ABUSE:
Con artists don’t really care about your age or your needs. Their only goal is to separate you from your hard-earned money. Learn how to recognize scams. We’ll cover:
• Grandparent or Relative in need scams
• Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams
• Investment Scams
REGISTER at www.LIHERALD.com/elder
Stay one step ahead of identity thieves by shredding personal & financial documents. Register and reserve your spot for a FREE drive-through contactless shredding event. (Limit 3 bags per car)
SATURDAY APRIL 22, 2023
10AM-1PM • IN-PERSON
LOCATION:
Nassau Community College
One Education Drive • Garden City, NY (Entrance to parking lot at Miller Place)
REGISTER at https://bit.ly/ShredGardenCity
SATURDAY MAY 6, 2023 9AM-12PM • IN-PERSON
LOCATION: Michael J Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Avenue • New Hyde Park, NY
REGISTER at https://bit.ly/ShredNewHydePark
SATURDAY MAY 20, 2023
• IN-PERSON
LOCATION: Farmingdale Library 116 Merritts Road • Farmingdale, NY
REGISTER at https://bit.ly/ShredFarmingdale
LEGAL NOTICE
WELLSPRINGS CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK, PLLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/11/22. Office: NASSAU County. SSNY designated as agent of the PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the PLLC, 446 EAST MEADOW AVENUE, #723, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554.
Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
137072
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. NEW YORK LAND
DEVELOPMENT CORP., Pltf. vs. ANGELINA
MIRANDA AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPHINE
BOLTON A/K/A
JOSEPHINE M. BOLTON, et al, Defts. Index
#615088/18. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered December 6, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 21, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., prem. k/a 3rd Street, East Meadow, NY a/k/a School District 3, Section 50, Block 410, Lot 55. Approx. amt. of judgment is $1,764.09 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing, cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the auction.
MICHAEL ALPERT, Referee, BRONSTER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf. 156 West 56th Street, Ste. 902, New York, NY. File No.
308765.008- #100078
137356
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
DEUTSCHE BANK
NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS
INDENTURE TRUSTEE
UNDER THE INDENTURE RELATING TO IMH ASSETS CORP., COLLATERALIZED ASSETBACKED BONDS, SERIES
2005-4, Plaintiff, Against RAMIRO PAREDES
GONZALEZ, JOSE A PAREDES, ET AL.
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered on or about 12/8/2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of
the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 3/27/2023 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 344 Nursery Lane, Westbury, NY 11590, and described as follows:
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in thein the Incorporated Village of Westbury, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York Section 10 Block 308 Lot 8
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $587,352.04 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 010406/15
If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction.
Melvyn Roth, Esq., Referee.
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 2/6/2023 File Number: 560-3331 LD 137488
If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction.
George P. Esernio, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 2/6/2023 File Number: 17-302739 LD 137490
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR LEGACY MORTGAGE ASSET-TRUST 2017-RPL2
Plaintiff, Against FRANCISCO MOLINA
A/K/A FRANCISCO S. MOLINA, MARIA MOLINA A/K/A MARIA H. MOLINA, ET AL.
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/16/2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 3/30/2023 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 786 Davis Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553 and described as follows:
Defendant. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
THAT
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on September 18, 2019, I, Judith Powell, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on March 29, 2023 at The North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, County of Nassau, State of New York, at 2:00 PM the premises described as follows:
1611 N Jerusalem Road East Meadow, NY 11554
SBL No: 50-388.00-54
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 611231/2017 in the amount of $267,342.65 plus interest and costs.
Foreclosure Auctions will be held Rain or Shine. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.
Richard S. Mullen Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP
premises known as 930 WINTHROP DRIVE, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554: Section 50, Block 454, Lot 24: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, 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 # 603292/2020. Mary Ellen Divone, 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 ACORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 137659
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU
FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), V. DENNIS R. WENDORF, ET AL.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 005053/2016. Desiree Lovell Fusco, 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. 137661
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff, AGAINST GALE YOUNG, NATHANIEL YOUNG, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on August 24, 2022.
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTION
ONE MORTGAGE LOAN
TRUST 2007-HL1 ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-HL1 Plaintiff, Against MARISOL LORENZO, EDWIN LORENZO, et al.,
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/16/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 4/3/2023 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 388 Maplegrove Avenue, Uniondale, New York 11553, And Described As
Follows:
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, In The Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 3/15/23 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU LONS MORTGAGE SERVICES, INC.,
Plaintiff, Against GEORGE C. BERGLEITNER III, MARIANNE BERGLEITNER, et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/30/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 3/29/2023 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 1486 Cleveland Avenue, East Meadow, New York 11554 and described as follows:
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at East Meadow, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York
Section 50 Block 522 Lot 28
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $463,351.48 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale;
Index # 608897/2017
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Hempstead Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York Section 36 Block 138 Lot 15
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $392,575.61 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 614717/2019
If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction.
Heather D. Crosley, Esq., Referee.
SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road , Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Dated: File Number: 36603 LD 137480
Plaintiff’s Attorney 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 137484
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU
WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA
STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST 2019-HB1, V. MARIE E. METZGER, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated December 5, 2022, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST
2019-HB1 is the Plaintiff and MARIE E. METZGER, 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 April 4, 2023 at 2:30PM,
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated January 9, 2019, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”) is the Plaintiff and DENNIS R. WENDORF, 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 April 4, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 190 NANCY DR, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554: Section 45, Block 478, Lot 9: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT EAST MEADOW, (UNINCORPORATED AREA) IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 4, 2023 at 2:30 PM premises known as 751 Macon Place, Uniondale, NY 11553.
Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.
All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 50, Block 398 and Lot 4. Approximate amount of judgment $470,797.45 plus interest and costs.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #003566/2015. Stephen Frommer, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 137657
Section 50 Block 51 Lot 158
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $613,177.58 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 12-013295
If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. Scott H Siller, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated:
2/6/2023 File Number: 560-1721 LD 137655
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of formation of Comics In The Classroom, LLC. Articles filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 8/20/2022. Office located in Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to P.O Box 246 East Meadow NY 11554.
Purpose: any lawful purpose 13741
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 201/23. EAST MEADOWRoute 106 Inc., d/b/a Public House, Variance in off-street parking, special exception to park in front yard setbacks on Newbridge Rd. & Seventh Ave., special exception to use part of premises for place of public assembly and amusement (maintain bar)., N/W cor. Newbridge Rd. & Eighth Ave., running thru to Seventh Ave., a/k/a 346 Newbridge Rd. S.E.Q.R. determination not made.
ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in East Meadow within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 137807
Help Wanted
ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING, AR/AP
Do you have accounting, bookkeeping, or AR/AP experience? Are you tired of being retired, or need a few days a week to keep your mind occupied? If so, please send us a quick email and we will call you to discuss more details. We are a Customs Broker looking for someone who can support our everyday accounting needs and who doesn’t necessarily need or want to work every day. We look forward to talking with you!!! Email: Jobs@agraservices.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FT: RVC. Administrative Work, Answering Phones, Computer Skills – Microsoft, Excel, Outlook, Financial background helpful. No Health Beneifts. 516-763-9700 frances.difede@lpl.com
AUTO TECHNICIAN FT
Experienced And Reliable. NYSI A Plus. Busy Merrick Shop. Call 516-781-5641
AUTO TECHNICIAN WANTED
Gregoris Subaru, Valley Stream
Experience Needed, Own Tools NYSI License Necessary
All Skill Levels Welcome Salary Commensurate With Exp. Health Benefits, Union Call Steve H 516-872-9755 Ext.1 Email Steveh@gregorismotors.com
BOOKKEEPER P/T EXPERIENCED
5-10 Hours Per Week. Handle Real Estate Property Management, Personal Finances. Computer Skills Necessary. Can Work From Home Or Office. Lawrence. Call 516-375-9642
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
Clinical Research Specialist sought by Mindful Care Ltd dba Mindful Urgent Care for West Hempstead, NY to manage & oversee the dvlpmt, implmtn & evaluation of a sleep study. Must have a Bach Deg in Biology, Health Sciences or Medical Technology + 1 yr exp in Clinical Research + special skills: RedCap, SPSS, CITI certification. Resumes to: Tamir Aldad, 510 Hempstead Turnpike, #203, West Hempstead, NY 11552. No calls.
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, Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
Will Certify And Train HS Diploma NYS License Clean 3 Years Call 516-731-3000
The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry.
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
INVESTIGATOR
Skip Tracer, Asset Locator. 3Yrs. Experience. Bi-lingual A Plus. Work From Home. mgal2@verizon.net 516-868-9888
MOTOR VEHICLE CLERK FT
Valley Stream Subaru Seeking Conscientious, Organized, Computer Literate. Reliable Individual. Will Train If Needed. Family Run Business With Small, Friendly Office Staff. Salary, 401K, Benefits. Ask For Richard Or Therese 516-825-8700
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. We offer salary, commission, bonuses, health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Will consider part time. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
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
PRESS-ROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME Pressroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for a motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift
HomesHERALD
HOME Of tHE WEEK
S
Office: (516) 889-6677
Email: jamram123@aol.com
Topper Realty 84 East Park Avenue Long Beach, NY 11561
Q. My basement is being finished, and we’re adding a bathroom with a shower. Our plumber just left, and I’m bewildered by the way things are going. The plumber says we passed the inspection, but we’re concerned that he persuaded us to move the door, and all of the fixtures are different than the plans show. Our architect lined up the toilet, the sink and the shower in a row so we could use just one “plumbing wall” for all the pipes, but the plumber moved the shower to a different wall, which left nothing but empty space in the corner beside the toilet. Then the plumber ran flexible hot and cold tubing along the ceiling, so now we have to add a drop-down ceiling around the pipes. Is this acceptable and normal to do, and why did the work pass inspection if it didn’t follow our plans? We spent a lot of time discussing and planning where everything would go with our architect, and now we wonder who’s in charge if it passes inspection.
A. You ultimately have the last word on what you accept. I always tell clients that we play by the Golden Rule in construction. The Golden Rule used to mean, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It now means that he (or she) who has the gold rules.
OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 3/12/23 HEWLETT
1267 Peninsula Blvd, 2:00-3:30, NEW TO MARKET! 5 BR, 2 Bth Exp Cape in SD#14
(Hewlett-Woodmere) Living Room, DR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK & Bths. Det 1.5 Gar & Driveway for 4/5 Cars. HW Floors. Gas Heat. Near LIRR, Shops, Trans & Schools.
A Steal! $599,000
257 Willard Dr, 12-1:30, Spacious 5 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch With Open Layout.Main Floor Mstr Ste Plus Potential Mstr Ste on 2nd Flr. LR/Fpl, FDR, EIK & Sundrenched Family Rm w/ Doors to Deck. Fin Bsmt. Att Gar. Loads of Updates!! SD#20 (Lynbrook) No Flood
Insurance Req. MUST SEE THIS! REDUCED!! $1,025,000
1193 E. Broadway # M23, BA, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Stunning
Gut Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Garden Town. Gourmet Kit W/Thermdore St Steel Appl Opens Into DR & LR. Primary BR w/Bth Plus Spac 2nd BR. W/D in Unit. New Self Controlled CAC. Oak Flrs, LED Lights. Near LIRR. Parking Avail. SD#14. You Don't Want to Miss This $379,000
1608 Ridgeway Dr, BA, Move Right Into This Completely Gut Renovated 4 BR, 3.5 Bth Col on 1/4 Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR w/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch. Radiant
Heated Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20 DRASTIC REDUCTION! MOTIVATED SELLER! $1,399,000 ALSO FOR RENT $6,500 per month
1534 Broadway #103, BA, Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch Style
Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator. Just Move into This Gut Rvated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout.Large Designer Eat in Kitchen with Sep Pantry & Laundry Rm.Master BR Boasts Gorgeous Bth & Walk in Closet.
Terrace Faces into Courtyard. Garage Parking Incl REDUCED & MOTIVATED!! $699,000
1534 Broadway #205, BA, Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom (Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath
Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back.
CE da RHURST 332B Peninsula Blvd, BA, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth Coop Townhouse. LR, DR, Gran/Wood Kit w/ Stainless Steel Appl. Trex Deck Off LR. Primary Ste Features Updtd Bth & WIC. Att Gar Plus 1 Pkg Spot incl in Maintenance. W/D, Pull Down Attic, SD#15. Convenient to Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship $449,000 Fa R ROCK aWay 33-47 Bay Ct, BA, Enjoy The Waterviews in This Bayswater 4 BR, 1.5 Bth Split Tucked Away in Cul de Sac. Fin Bsmt. Att Gar. O/S Resortlike Yard on the Bay. Opportunity to Make This Your Dream Home! REDUCED! $675,000 Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299 1207517 1207309 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)
The Architect
Ask
As long as you haven’t paid yet, you still have some authority. Once you pay, the issue becomes unclear, since paying is a demonstration of satisfaction, and it’s hard to show you were dissatisfied when someone else, like a judge, has to determine if you really just changed your mind but were once satisfied. Situations like yours prompted me to put a clause in my agreements that often seems questionable to prospective customers. I write that I am not responsible for deviations from the plans by the contractor, subcontractor, plumber, electrician or any other party hired by the owner, of it they cut through building components and cause damage.
Many people are naïve to the fact that the workers you hire often deviate from the plans. The building owner really believes that people follow the plans. Sadly, the plans prepared by a design professional, architect or engineer are carefully scrutinized by building officials before a permit is granted, only to be ignored when the plans are then not followed and the inspection in the field passes.
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.
1202330
Rob Kolb Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Tripodi Shemtov
Real Estate
RETIRED NYC EMS fire lieutenant selling quarter to half acre lots in Palm Coast Florida. We pay closing costs. We have a travel program to buy call 1-386-437-7058
Open Houses
HEWLETT BA, 257 WILLARD Dr RE-
DUCED!! Spacious 5 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch
With Open Layout.Main Floor Mstr Ste Plus Potential Mstr Ste on 2nd Flr.LR/Fpl, FDR, EIK & Sundrenched Family Rm w/ Doors to Deck. Fin Bsmt. Att Gar. Loads of Updates!! SD#20(Lynbrook)No Flood Insurance Req. MUST SEE THIS!..$1,025,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman
516-238-4299
HEWLETT BA, 1534 Broadway #103, REDUCED AND MOTIVATED! Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch
Style Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator.
Just Move into This Gut Renovated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout.Large Designer Eat in Kitchen with Sep Pantry & Laundry Rm.Master BR Boasts Gorgeous Bth & Walk in Closet. Terrace
Faces into Courtyard and the Garage
Parking is Incl..$699,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
HEWLETT BA, 1608 Ridgeway Dr, Drastic Reduction! Move Right Into This Completely Gut Renovated 4 BR, 3.5 Bth Col on 1/4 Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR w/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch. Radiant Htd Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20...$1,469,000 RENTAL
$6500 PER MONTH Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429
House For Sale
POINT LOOKOUT: WATERFRONT-
LARGEST Selection of Beach Homes, Sale/ Rent. Our Home Listings Sell FA$T! VIDEOS. HUG R.E. 516-431-8000 www.hugrealestate.com
Apartments For Rent
CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978
Vacation Rentals/Prop
Apartments For Rent
EAST ELMONT: 1 BR Cottage, New Carpets/ Flooring. No Smoking/ Pets. $1400 Plus Utilities. 516-437-7608
WEST HEMPSTEAD: SPACIOUS Lower Level, All Included, Separate Entrance, Backyard, EIK, Fbth, Near All/ LIRR. $2100. 917-640-3028
Out Of Town/Real Estate
NINEVEH NY: 25 Acres With Cabin And Bluestone Quarry. Hunting, Farming, Mining. Below Market. Must Sell. $75,000. Ben 347-866-5619, 718-266-9700
MoneyTo Lend
ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)
Cemetery Plots
CEMETERY PLOT FOR TWO For Sale: Pinelawn Cemetery. Garden Of Normandy North. Price Negotiable. 516-375-1905
Robin Reiss Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Cell: 516.510.6484 Office: 516.623.4500 Robin.Reiss@elliman.com
How’s the market?? Please contact me for your free market report and personalized service! 1207130
and home office.
Taxes: $11,716
Bellmore $700,000
Farmers Avenue. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Updated eat-in kitchen with quartz countertops and deck off kitchen. Open layout. Fireplace and cathedral ceiling. Updates include 2-zone heat and central air conditioning. Master bedroom with vaulted ceiling and skylight.
Taxes: $13,448.12
Cedarhurst $1,200,000
West Broadway. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Kosher eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and highend stainless steel appliances, including 2 ranges and 2 dishwashers, and island. Living room with custom built-ins. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Large rooms. Parklike backyard. Central air conditioning.
Taxes: $8,372
East Meadow $700,000
Francis Drive. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. New eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and porcelain flooring. Formal dining room. First floor master bedroom. Updates include windows and ductless air conditioning system.
Taxes: $11,754.12
East Rockaway $710,000
Alden Road. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. First floor bedroom. Security system.
Taxes: $17,764.30
Freeport $760,000
Maryland Avenue. Expanded Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor master bedroom suite. Convenient location in heart of Sterns Park.
Taxes: $16,524.30
Long Beach $600,000
Lincoln Boulevard. Ranch. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Updated open-concept eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Den/family room. Many extras, including high hats, crown molding and closet systems. Large rooms. Central air conditioning.
Taxes: $10,661.35
Oceanside $590,000 Bayfield Boulevard. Split Level. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor master bedroom.
Taxes: $17,839.21
Valley Stream $651,000
Todd Road. Expanded Cape. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances and walk-out to Trex deck. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Large rooms. Professional landscaping.
$11,872.36
Announcements
THE LONG BEACH HISTORICAL SOCIETY 226 West Penn St, Long Beach Invites You To Shop Our Antique, Vintage & Treasures Sale Sat., March 18th, Sun., March 19th. 11am-5pm. Exciting Finds Throughout The Museum. For More Information: 516-432-1192.
Antiques/Collectibles
We Buy Antiques, Fine Art & 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
BATHROBE: UNISEX 100% Turkish Cotton, Garden City Hotel Embroidery, One Size. Tags On, $90. 516-320-1906
CRYSTAL STEMWARE (MACY'S). Gorgeous Wine , Water, Champagne. Brand new original boxes $95. 516-225-9191
DINING ROOM FURNITURE wood espresso color $99. (516) 462-2656
DOG CRATE, 24" x 20" x 22" tall, metal tray. $29. call 516-798-2098
Finds Under $100
FIREWOOD SEASONED MAPLE Cut Logs $40 S. Freeport 516 279 7696
FREE PIANO! IN good condition. You just have to transport. Call 516-596-1078
KID'S BEDROOM FURNITURE wood honey color $99. (516) 462-2656
LACROSSE BALLS,100, NEW and used, $70, 516-816-7383
PICTURE FRAMES, ALL shapes & sizes, wood, metal, etc. everything under $6. 516-225-9191
SEARS CRAFTSMAN PUSH Reel Lawnmower (old style), $30, Excellent Condition, 516-816-7383
VINTAGE SUNBEAM MIXMASTER Electric Mixer w/bowls, working, excellent, clean, $55. 516-798-2098.
SERVICES
Cleaning Services
MARINA'S CLEANING SERVICES: Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764
Decks
DECKS DECKS Our Only Business COMPOSITES/WOOD Excellent References & Many Photos
516-729-5859
Electricians
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All
Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
Handyman
HANDYMAN
Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated.
Home Improvement
RENOVATIONS & ALL REPAIRS SUPER COMPETITIVE PRICES! Licensed / Insured. Free Estimates Nassau License. # H-0102710000 Call John - 516-852-9830
Miscellaneous BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313
Plumbing
PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. 516-599-1011
Tree Services
T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE
DON'T PAY FOR Covered Home Repairs Again! American Residential Warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE/ $100 OFF POPULAR PLANS. 833-398-0526
HANDY DANDY HOME IMPROVEMENTS
* Full Or Partial Kitchens/ Baths *Painting *Sheetrock *Taping/ Spackling *Installations Ceramic/ Vinyl Tile *Carpentry *Alterations *Repairs/ More. FREE ESTIMATES. Dan 516-342-0761
*Tree Removal *Stump Grinding *Pruning *Roof Line Clearing. Residential and Commercial. "We Beat All Competitors' Rates." Lowest Rates. *Senior Discount. Free Estimates. *516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com
Satellite/TV Equipment
DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-595-6967
GET DIRECTV FOR $64.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-534-6918
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Education
COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.
Health & Fitness
VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574
AUTOMOBILE & MARINE
Autos For Sale
ACURA 2003, 3.2 CLS, 2 door, Silver, Black Interior, 160K Plus. Needs Battery. $1800 516-668-8877 runs great
JEEP 2012 LIBERTY: 79,000, Navy Blue, MUST SELL! As is $7500.00. 516 435 3461
Autos Wanted
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$
Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h.
The good news for the New York State Education Department, and the sobering news for the rest of us, is that state taxpayers remain mostly blinded by educational obfuscations like the high school graduation rate.
The SED released 2022 graduation rates last month, and the percentage of students who collected diplomas on Long Island crept up slightly last year, to 92.6 percent.
Long Island has a higher graduation rate than almost any other region in America.
If we were a state, we would have the highest graduation rate in the nation.
“Wow!” you say.
“Long Island schools are second to none!”
Hold on to your mortarboard.
If the graduation rate helps rank schools and compare graduating classes, why complain? It’s an easy way to see if your high school did better or worse than last year. It also tells you how your school compares with others.
It’s also a remarkably misleading statistic that is sometimes abused for lessthan-ethical purposes.
On the surface, graduation rate is simple, determined by dividing the number of students who graduate by the total number of eligible students. But there are all sorts of inside-baseball statistics — such as cohort graduation vs. on-time graduation — that the Education Department, and superintendents around the state, jumble, mix and match in an effort to figure out how to get more diplomas in the hands of teens.
The statistics themselves aren’t insidious. Numbers are simply tools. It’s the use of the graduation rate to determine school rankings and state funding that makes it so odious. Even worse is what some educators will do to boost the rate.
Ask a high school teacher how many times he or she has been queried by an administrator:
“What does this kid need to graduate?”
“Can we give her extra credit?”
“How many points does he need?”
“He’s worked so hard all year — surely there must be something that can be done.”
It’s a confidence game. Nudge the numbers, appeal to a teacher’s good intentions, and the graduation rate ticks upward.
Floor grades are a neat trick. The
intent of a floor grade — a number that can’t dip below 55 or 45, depending on attendance — is to give students a fighting chance to pass a class.
Consider this scenario without a floor grade: A student fails the first two quarters of a class with abysmal grades of 12 and 15 — more common than you might think — so it becomes statistically impossible to pass for the year. The student realizes this, completely gives up, and becomes a discipline problem.
Giving the student a floor grade means that he or she only has to get a grade of 75 for each of the last two quarters to pass the class. The student sees light at the end of the tunnel, and becomes a model learner.
Alas, crafty students immediately figure out the floor-grade scam. Some students take it as a fall-quarter extension of summer break — while other students bemoan the benefit given to slackers. Floor grades reward laziness and diminish the quality of education needed to graduate.
Floor grades aren’t universally used or required, and there are no state or nationwide regulations. Some schools implement them at the end of the marking peri-
od. A grade of 32 miraculously jumps to 55. Other schools prohibit teachers from uploading any grade below 55 for any assignment. A student who does not a jot of work all of September still gets a 55.
See you on the podium in June, Jimmy!
Then there are credit-recovery programs — kids on Chromebooks after school for a few weeks, punching keys to earn class credits — and summer school. Ask a high school administrator what their summer school pass-fail rate is. Derelict students somehow evolve into scholars in the span of six weeks.
Obviously, not every student slacks, not every teacher fudges and not every administrator nudges. But let’s be honest about loopholes.
Graduation rate can’t measure rigor. Parents largely want their children’s diplomas to mean something more than a number. Graduation rate doesn’t emphasize philosophy, critical thinking or scientific theory.
So, by all means, toast the graduates this spring with a glass of sparkling cider — and a shot of reality. Not all diplomas are equal, and that graduation rate may be hiding some of your high school’s flaws.
Mark Nolan, the editor of the Lynbrook/ East Rockaway and Malverne/West Hempstead Heralds, taught high school English for 11 years.
In honor of National Reading Day on March 2, I reread Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.” Setting: America, in its earliest days. The settlers of Salem, in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, were religious and community-minded, good people who cared for their children and worked desperately to survive in a forbidding environment.
In 1692, these righteous citizens accused, tried and hanged 14 women, five men and two dogs for practicing witchcraft.
offered accounts of teenage girls dancing naked in the woods and reports of broomsticks found high in the trees. Daughters accused mothers and husbands accused wives. Once accused, you either confessed and implicated others, or you were hanged anyway for not telling the truth.
What finally shined a light on that dark summer of 1692, what pried the truth out of the cold foundations of old Salem, was “The Crucible,” Miller’s play, which he wrote more than 250 years after the fact.
Some time ago, I also read Stacy Schiff’s “The Witches: Salem, 1692,” a nonfiction history of the time. It has been noted that no historian has ever fully explained what fever possessed the people of Salem. Even Schiff’s remarkable history does not answer the question of how the community’s paranoia achieved the critical mass that led to hangings.
You know where I’m going with this. We live now in a time of similar groupthink and communal delusion. (They nearly hanged Mike Pence!)
In Massachusetts Bay, “eyewitnesses”
In writing a work of fiction, Miller revealed the true hearts and minds of the accusers, victims and bystanders. He knew them because he knew human nature, and because he was living through a time of another witch hunt: the great Red Scare of the early 1950s.
Miller was one of the artists accused of ties with communism, and in an essay, “Why I wrote ‘The Crucible,’” he wrote, “The play was an act of desperation.” The accusations of Sen. Joseph McCarthy’s House Un-American Activities Committee, Miller wrote, had “paralyzed a whole generation and in a short time dried up the habits of trust and toleration in public discourse.”
He wrote, “In 1948-51, I had the sensation of being trapped inside a perverse work of art … in which it is impossible to make out whether a stairway is going up or down. Practically everyone I knew stood within the conventions of the political left of centre; one or two were Communist party members … I have never been able to believe in the reality of these people being actual or putative traitors any more than I could be, yet others like them were being fired from teaching or jobs in government or large corporations … The surreality of it all never left me … In today’s terms, the country had been delivered into the hands of the radical right … It is always with us, this anxiety, sometimes directed towards foreigners, Jews, Catholics, fluoridated water, aliens in space, masturbation, homosexuality, or the Internal Revenue Department … And if this seems crazy now, it seemed just as crazy then, but openly doubting it could cost you.”
Miller’s play became a metaphor, even a cliché of that era, when friends betrayed friends and people lost jobs and secret accusations could lead to public humiliation and worse. Miller said that he wrote “The Crucible” because it was what a
writer would do to get to the underlying truth of a moment in history. In writing about 1692, he was also writing about 1952.
And now, when we read his play, we are also reading about our time. Once again, America has lost its moorings, and no one can adequately explain or understand 2023, because we are treading water in the midst of it.
We won’t have a bead on our own time until the novelists and playwrights create the fictional works that reveal us to ourselves.
Read “The Crucible” again. It speaks to the currents of evil that can sweep away an entire community: irrational fear of “the other,” jealousy, fundamentalist religion, isolation, political manipulation. Miller was writing about Salem and the Red Scare, but he might as well have been writing about Stalin’s Russia or Pinochet’s Chile, Mao’s China or the Khmer Rouge. Or he might have been writing about America today, about QAnon or DeSantis or Trump or Marjorie Taylor Greene, about book bans and racist attacks and antisemitic resurgences.
It is America in 2023. We have run off the rails, again. We need to wait for the novelists and playwrights to find the truth of this moment and bring it to us.
Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
Arthur Miller’s 1953 play, ‘The Crucible,’ could have been written in 2023.
They’re misleading statistics that are sometimes unethically abused.
Established 2001
Incorporating:
Meadowbrook Times 1963-2001
East Meadow Beacon 1950-2020
Mallory wilson
Editor
robert CuMMings
Multi Media Marketing Consultant
offiCe
2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
Web: www.liherald.com
E-mail: emeadoweditor@liherald.com
Copyright
the middle of March is something many of us look forward to, because it means spring is just around the corner. But this coming week, March 12-18, is known as Sunshine Week. Associations, institutions and organizations connected to journalism will celebrate the initiative to promote open government, which was launched in 2005 by the American Society of News Editors, now the News Leaders Association.
The week coincides with March 16, National Freedom of Information Day, which honors a bill signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966, allowing members of the public and journalists access to government information in the interest of keeping our leadership transparent.
States across the country have since enacted similar laws, but why is this important? Why should you care?
Because government information is taxpayer-supported, public information, and it belongs to you. Whether it’s a public school district, a village, a town, a county, the state, or the nation’s highest governing entities, everything said, spent or done there impacts you.
In the midst of the Cold War, with the United States and the Soviet Union locking political horns after World War II, the American government appeared to be suppressing information. That wasn’t going to work for John Moss, a newly elected Republican congressman from California. Moss campaigned for increased transparency, but was continuously rebuffed by a government he viewed as acting secretly. People were fired from their jobs and blacklisted for being com-
To the Editor:
Re Peter King’s column last week, “At the Capitol, it was almost as if I’d never left”: Mr. King’s “bittersweet” tour of his part-time “home” for 28 years is qualified by an expansive “almost.”
Since his departure in December 2020, we outsiders have seen members of Congress fleeing the Capitol, election-deniers elected, Marjorie Taylor Greene advocating secession and a national divorce, the meretricious McCarthy spectacle, the frantic shunning of George Santos and the Republican Party’s growing angst with its likely nominee. Mr. King apparently did not notice any of this. His visit was a lot like old times, we’re told.
Who knew this would be cause for nostalgia?
BRIAN KELLY Rockville Centre
munists, many without a shred of real evidence.
Moss championed his caused by hosting hearings as chair of a House subcommittee on government information. Support was nonexistent from the majority GOP, but outside Congress, educators, journalists and scientists strongly supported Moss.
Not surrendering, Moss pushed his Freedom of Information Act for over 10 years until, finally, a fellow Republican, Donald Rumsfeld — then a young representative from Chicago — added his name. The act eventually passed in the House and the Senate, and then landed on the desk of Johnson, a Democrat who opposed some aspects of the bill, especially when it came to classified material. Still, LBJ signed the legislation into law on July 4, 1966, making the supposed greatest democracy on Earth the third country to create such a law.
“I sign this measure with a deep sense of pride that the United States is an open society in which the people’s right to know is cherished and guarded,” Johnson said.
You might live in an incorporated village with a government that includes a board of trustees. You might attend a board meeting at which those trustees vote to spend money to improve a playground. You want to know exactly how that money — your village taxes — will be spent.
You might ask a trustee. Maybe he or she answers your question. Maybe they do not. You want to know more. That is when you can file a Freedom of Information request — the process created by the Free-
dom of Information Act — to obtain that information.
Is it that easy? Usually, yes. Occasionally, however, it becomes a tug-of-war between the government and the party who “FOILs” for the information.
This is what Sunshine Week is about, and why it matters. The information that a government entity possesses does not belong to elected or appointed officials. It belongs to the people they represent.
You.
To promote the message of Sunshine Week, you can write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper — like this one — or help spread the message through social media.
Elected officials, doing their part, could review current public-access laws, introduce legislation to strengthen accessibility to public information, and encourage the training of government employees to help ensure compliance with existing open-record laws.
Grass-roots community organization might organize local forums, sponsor essay contests, or push elected representatives to spotlight the importance of open access to government information.
Teachers can use Sunshine Week to educate students on how government transparency improves their lives and creates stronger communities.
Government transparency was on the mind of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis when he told Harper’s Weekly in 1913 that “sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants.” Increased openness should be the standard that all government entities strive for. It makes for good governance, and a strong and civil society.
It appears that Gov. Kathy Hochul has made a conscious decision to declare political war on Long Island.
In her proposed statewide mandate to increase the number of affordable homes by 800,000 units over the next 10 years, Hochul seeks to override local zoning control that is directed, in large measure, by the people who live there. For Long Island, home rule defines our region just as much as Jones Beach and rush hour traffic on the LIE. Make no mistake: Hochul’s housing plan is taking aim at the Island by imposing a 3 percent increase in affordable housing one way or another.
In an effort to couch it in humanitarian terms, she told the State Legislature, “Housing is a human right.” That’s bold rhetoric, but in truth, there is nothing in the federal or state Constitutions stating that housing is a basic right guaranteed by government. On the other hand, our state Constitution says, “Effective local self-government” is one of the “purposes of the people of the state.” Thus, the governor’s intent to allow the state to override local zoning ordinances is contrary
to a basic tenet of our governing document.
If citizens in a democracy wish to support initiatives that provide subsidized housing, then government can invest in efforts such as the New York City Housing Authority. With broken elevators, poorly maintained boilers, lurking crime and other assorted issues, however, you have to admit that NYCHA has proven that government-subsidized housing isn’t exactly a panacea. That may help explain why over 30 percent of those renting from NYCHA didn’t pay their rent last year.
Hochul had a near-death political experience last fall, when Long Island did not give her a majority at the polls. There are a number of reasons for the Island’s antipathy toward her, but one was her earlier call to allow illegal two-family homes to become legal. Yet after retreating from blistering bipartisan opposition to that proposal, she has come back with yet another draconian housing “solution,” one driven more by ideology than market forces. Perhaps her call to dismantle local zoning is her punishment for a region where voters found her the lesser candidate.
Nevertheless, in the interest of building a coalition, Hochul has sent Ruth-
To the Editor:
I took offense to Rick Herman’s letter, “Randi takes on George Santos” (Feb. 23-March 1), asserting that 99.9 percent of the “cuckoos” are Republicans — and I guess he forgot to mention that we’re all deplorable and racist.
I feel sorry for Mr. Herman’s grandson, who will be influenced by a grandfather who believes that his views are the only ones that matter, and that someone who has a different opinion needs to be silenced and disparaged.
I’m not defending Santos, but politicians, the media, government agencies and the pharmaceutical companies lie to us on a daily basis, so why would Santos think it was a problem to “enhance” his resume? Thankfully, in his case no one died as a result of his lies. We can’t say that for some other people in Washington.
For weeks there have been articles in the Herald about Santos. Move on, already. There are a lot more important issues going on in this country (and throughout the world) than Santos lying on his resume. Next election, vote him out.
If you want to start kicking politicians out of office for lying, you might as well start closing the buildings in D.C. There
probably will only be a handful of honest ones left.
BARBARA HALLFormerly of Glen Cove
To the Editor:
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2024 Executive Budget includes critical tobacco-control policies that, if passed, will reduce youth tobacco initiation rates and adult smoking rates, thus ensuring a tobacco-free generation. The elimination of flavored tobacco products from retail shelves is a common-sense action that will greatly improve the health of New Yorkers who continue to use tobacco products.
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in New York. Every year, approximately 4,300 New Yorkers under 18 become daily smokers, with 80 percent of young smokers starting with a flavored tobacco product. Flavored products, including menthol, are enticing to young smokers, and make it more difficult for them to quit once they are addicted to nicotine.
In addition, menthol tobacco products have been disproportionately marketed to Black communities for decades. As a
Anne Visnauskas, commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal, to meet with Long Islanders in the public and private sectors. In 2017, Visnauskas was appointed president and CEO of the New York State Housing Finance Agency, the State of New York Mortgage Agency and the State Affordable Housing Corporation. She previously served as Homes and Community Renewal’s executive deputy commissioner for Housing Development, the Mortgage Insurance Fund, the Office of Community Renewal and the Office of Faith-Based Community Development Services.
All that is fine, Commissioner, but welcome to Long Island.
Just in case you don’t believe our region is specifically targeted in the governor’s public agenda, consider the following. Hochul acknowledges that the majority of communities around the state are already hitting or close to achieving her arbitrary affordable-housing targets — except Long Island. For Nassau and Suffolk, she has set a goal of 38,218 new affordable housing units between 2023 and 2025.
This is not to say Long Island doesn’t have a housing problem. It does. Far too many municipalities here are shutting
down applications for next-generation housing, creating an unforced exodus of young people who will be needed to power the economy, pay the taxes and build the future. But Hochul’s proposed remedy is akin to being held hostage by an Albany now under progressive domination.
If it is passed, it is a certainty that there will be lawsuits, protests and, most important, a response at the voting booths that will jeopardize every elected official who supports the plan. And the political aftershocks will not stop with state and local officials. Much as the issue of crime drove Democrats to cross party lines and vote for Republicans last November, Hochul’s assault on the integrity of local zoning may move Long Island voters to overwhelmingly support the Republican who runs against Democratic U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.
While Gillibrand seems to need a GPS to even find Long Island, she will be within reach of voters who intend to express their seething anger over a DemocraticProgressive agenda that destroys the integrity of suburban home rule. She will be another politician who ruefully discovers that you “don’t mess with the Island.”
Ronald J. Rosenberg has been an attorney for 42 years, concentrating in commercial litigation and transactions, and real estate, municipal, zoning and land use law. He founded the Garden City law firm Rosenberg Calica & Birney in 1999.
result, the tobacco industry has profited from the creation of generations of longterm nicotine addiction and devastating health consequences.
Now is the time to take action against Big Tobacco’s shrewd and manipulative marketing tactics. I urge the State Legis-
lature to pass the proposed budget and protect young New Yorkers from tobaccorelated death and disease.
MAUREEN KENNEY Division director, American Lung Association HauppaugeHochul’s draconian housing ‘solution’ is driven more by ideology than market forces.