East Meadow Herald 03-24-2024

Chili Cook- o ff crowd says ‘yum’!

At the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow, the gathering on March 10 was all about one thing: chili. The 10th annual Chili Cook-Off brought together congregants of the church community, who put their chili-making skills to the test.

The cook-off serves as an opportunity for members of the church to eat meat before the Great Lent begins. The Great Lent is an important fasting season in the church year in Eastern Christianity.

Above, members of the church community feasted — and judged — their favorite chili. At right Luke Kraus, 9, of East Meadow, who was later named winner of this year’s competition.

More photos, Page 10.

15th annual mock interview event a success

By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com

Interviewing for a job or educational opportunity, at any age, can be a nerve-wracking experience. And for students in high school, who may be seeking out their first job, volunteer position, or internship, it’s important to know how to present themselves to prospective employers.

IFor the last 15 years, the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce has worked with the East Meadow Union Free School District to host the ‘Millie Jones’ Mock Interview event, named in honor of a longtime chamber member, who died in 2019. Professionals in East Meadow, as well as community leaders, volunteer to serve as interviewers, who then meet with dozens of students from both East Meadow and W.T. Clarke High School, who act as interviewees.

t gives them a good leg up on the whole interview process

Al AN HoDIsH Mock interview chair, East Meadow Chamber of Commerce $1.00

in East Meadow’s schools, and the experience aims to get them familiar with interviewing and prepare them for college and future employment opportunities. The Academy of Finance is a three-year program that requires students to take four credits of business classes, as well as participate in additional learning experiences.

This year, 35 professionals participated as interviewers, meeting with roughly 60 students during the morning of March 15.

“It’s a great day for the kids, it’s a great day for us,” Alan Hodish, a past president of the East Meadow Chamber said during the beginning of the event.

The students are part of the Academy of Finance program

“I don’t know of any other school district that does what we do for our students. This is something that is very memorable for them, and it gives them a good leg up on the whole interview process. They get to learn about poise, they get to learn about preparation, and

Continued on page 4

Brittany Krilov/Herald photos

NUMC hosts local high school Medical Club

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Earlier this month, high school students had the opportunity to visit the Nassau University Medical Center for an experience like no other. The hospital in East Meadow played host to the Sanford H. Calhoun High School Medical Club on March 5 and students got to take a tour of the hospital, meet members of the NUMC leadership team as well as doctors, and also got to view two surgeries that were in progress.

Meg Ryan, the interim president and chief executive officer at NUMC, told the Herald that the hospital has affiliations with colleges and medical programs on Long Island and Queens, who work with NUMC for teaching purposes. The hospital began working with high school students pre-coronavirus pandemic, she added.

“This is the first time though, that the viewing rooms for surgeries has been open to the public since Covid,” she said of the Medical Club’s visit.

Students who participate in Calhoun’s Medical Club

traumatic relationships with their children or grandchildren. Children themselves may become estranged or at odds with parents or their siblings. Sometimes, an in-law is involved that seems to turn the client’s son or daughter into someone completely different from the child they raised. The pain that these clients are going through is palpable.

Some wise sage once said that all pain comes from resistance. Many of these relationship issues may be difficult or impossible to overcome, but one thing we can all do is work on ourselves — by accepting what is. Accepting what is does not mean agreeing with or condoning certain behavior. What it does mean is that you stop saying to yourself that it is not fair, it “should” be otherwise, etc. That will not do you one bit of good and may do you considerable harm. Stress has been called “the silent killer”.

We recall reading a pithy quote a while back that went something like this “when someone disappoints you, you have two choices, you

engage in medical-related volunteer work, which includes fundraising for certain charities, as well volunteering at hospitals, such as NUMC’s pediatric ward.

The Medical Club is overseen by its advisor, Kristine Fico, and club officers Patrick Smith and Megan Bhansingh, both presidents; Hallie Klimov and Hailey Sofia, both vice presidents; and Luke Pierce and Jacob Graber, both treasurers.

“The staff loves to welcome students,” Ryan said. “They’re proud of the work they do, so they were excited. It was nice hosting them.”

NUMC has the only hyperbaric chamber on Long Island, which allows patients to breathe 100 percent, pure oxygen — and the students even got to go inside it.

The Medical Club’s officers, in a joint statement shared with the Herald by Fico, said they were thankful that NUMC was able to give the club such an amazing experience.

“It was a great opportunity for the members to observe how the hospital environment functions,” they said. “For our first year as club officers, we are very

can either lower your expectations or walk away”. What is disappointment but dashed expectations? Those who learn to expect less are disappointed less.

“Accepting what is” cannot be accomplished overnight. It is a concept or thought process that improves your outlook the more you think about it, work on it and form new neural pathways to forge the new outlook.

Estate planners inevitably become “therapists” for their clients, because estate planning involves social relationships. Over the years, we have observed that many social problems occur between the client’s two ears. As Shakespeare said in Hamlet “There is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” Forget about what’s fair or right and what’s not. You are only hurting yourself. The other person is often blissfully unaware of how you’re feeling. Michael J. Fox, the actor known for his optimism despite suffering from Parkinson’s, put it best when he said “My happiness grows in direct proportion to my acceptance, and in inverse proportion to my expectations”.

proud of the progress we have made in revamping the club and providing our members with information that will benefit them in future careers in the medical field.”

Fico also said the consensus from the club’s members positive.

“The trip was a very enjoyable and eye-opening experience for us,” club members wrote in a group statement. “We got insight into what doctors and medical staff do in the ER each day through the tour we took, as well as the surgery we observed.”

Ryan said high school tours of the facility are field trips during the school day, as surgeries take place during the morning. The hospital is always happy to connect with groups interested in volunteering or visiting the hospital. Those interested can contact publicaffairs@numc.edu for more.

“The staff at NUMC gave our Medical Club students an outstanding learning opportunity,” Fico said. “Their dedication to the medical field, helping and educating others was evident. This was a great experience, and we are so grateful for their kindness, patience and expertise.”

Courtesy

Students

Seeing green for St. Paddy’s Day concert

East Meadow Public Library welcomes Irish musical group, Fiddler’s Green, for performance

It’s never too early to celebrate Irish heritage, and that was the case at the East Meadow Public Library on March 15. The musical group Fiddler’s Green took to the stage to ring in St. Patrick’s Day a few days before the actual holiday, and play traditional folk music, including Irish, Scottish and 19th-century nautical songs and tunes that have been inspiring people for generations.

At the Friday afternoon performance, Patrick O’Rourke, Mary Nagin, Larry Moser, Max Rowland and Maria Fairchild led the performance.

Nagin, an East Meadow native who now lives in Huntington, studied classical violin in school and has

always been passionate about traditional folk music.

Many of Fiddler’s Green’s members have performed at local libraries, museums, festivals, community events, and of course, the occasional pub. Each member is an accomplished musician in their own rite, who’ve participated in larger projects such as CD recordings and more.

There was no shortage of Irish pride — and of course music — at Friday’s performance. For more on upcoming performances, or cultural events at the library, visit EastMeadow.info. The library is at 1886 Front Street, East Meadow.

–Jordan Vallone

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Fiddler’s Green members, from left, Patrick O’Rourke, Maria Fairchild, Larry Moser, Mary Nagin and Max Rowland, during the band’s performance on March 15.

Max Roland, on banjo, plays music ‘steeped in tradition.’

Maria Fairchild led concert-goers through traditional tunes with her powerful voice.

Patrick O’Rourke, on stage during Fiddler’s Green performance.

Mary Nagin, a violinist, is an East Meadow native.

Mock interviews prepare students for future

Continued from page 1

they get to learn about how to interact in a business type scenario.”

For the third consecutive year, the East Meadow Herald not only covered the event, but also participated as an interviewer for students in the Academy of Finance program.

Interviewers are presented with guidelines and some sample questions to ask students, including things like tell me about yourself, when and why you decided to pursue this job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, and tell me about any prior work or volunteer experience.

Students are also instructed to come prepared, and learn things about the person who’s interviewing them, and where they work. At the end, they can ask

interviewers questions about their profession, education and workplace.

“In terms of the interview itself,” Hodish said, “you’re looking for certain things. Poise, their preparation, they’ve worked very hard on the resumes. Some of them are bound to be nervous — and that’s fine. It’s a good learning lesson.”

After an approximately 10-minute long interview, the interviewers provided positive feedback to the students, judging their performance. A rubric was filled out once the student was dismissed, and students were scored in the following categories: resume, appearance and poise, skill presentation, and delivery and language. Students can earn up to 20 points overall — meaning they’re an excellent candidate.

Overall, the process is meant to provide construc -

tive criticism, so students can learn where they did well, and what they may need to work on for future interviews.

The Millie Jones Mock Interview event is chaired by Hodish, Debra Kirsh, Roxanne Rose, Mitchell Skoller and current chamber of commerce president Anthony Bott.

Toni McIntosh, the East Meadow School District chairperson of business and technology, said often the students are nervous heading into their interviews, as they’re only juniors. But once their interview is complete, most note that it’s an amazing experience.

“They’re always hesitant about doing this process, but once they do it, they’re coming out like ‘This is great — I love the person I interviewed with,’” she said. “It’s such great feedback.”

on their performance. the event prepares students for future interviews for jobs or college.

Jordan Vallone/Herald photos members of the east meadow Chamber of Commerce and community leaders participated in the millie Jones mock interview event at east meadow High School on march 15. Students

Lawmakers advocate for NUMC funding

During a rally outside the State Senate and Assembly chambers in Albany, hospital administrators, physicians, nurses and staff joined State Senators Kevin Thomas, Steve Rhoads and Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Assembly members Taylor Darling and John Mikulin to urge New York state to restore critically important aid that is necessary for the Nassau University Medical Center to continue to provide the highest quality services to its patient population.

“I stand before you with immense pride for the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to our NHCC staff. In the face of unprecedented challenges, you have always show remarkable resilience and commitment to providing the highest quality of care to our patients and all the members of Nassau County, often putting your own well-being on the line,” NUMC Interim President and CEO Megan Ryan said. “We are asking for our Governor’s help and our government officials help, so we can continue our good work…while our staff continues to go above and beyond, its crucial that we address the pressing issue of funding for public hospitals, in particular NUMC.”

NUMC has implemented a comprehensive plan to address the financial challenges faced by Long Island’s largest safety net hospital. The plan is intended to create new efficiencies and increase revenue for the hospital that over time will allow it to require less State aid. As a hospital that is designed to receive low reimbursement or no payment for most services it provides, state aid is necessary. Without consultation from the hospital or the community it serves, New York state slashed aid to NUMC from

nearly $190 million in 2017 to $65 million in 2023. A continued reduction in aid will prevent the hospital from fulfilling its obligations to the people it serves, within a matter of months.

“The strain on resources has been immense and without adequate support

our ability to deliver essential services our county and state needs will be severely compromised,” Ryan said. “Therefore, I urge all government officials to please prioritize subsidizing funding for NUMC and NHCC.”

- Jordan Vallone

Courtesy Nassau University Medical Center

State lawmakers rallied with Nassau University Medical Center leaders and health care workers last week, advocating for the crucial funding it needs.

Embracing AI — but in a responsible way

By Rachele Terranova, Parker Schug & Brendan Carpenter

Continuing a series exploring the presence of artificial intelligence in our schools — and, over time, in society as a whole. Thoughts? Questions? Ideas? Email us at execeditor@liherald.com.

What place does artificial intelligence have in schools? Should it be feared? Embraced? Somewhere in between?

These are conversations that didn’t even exist a year ago — at least as far as education is concerned. But as AI becomes more and more accessible, students and teachers alike are finding they can use software to ask questions, find answers, and even complete their work faster — and maybe even better — than they ever could.

But no matter how some may feel about AI — or simply not even understand what AI is — the tool is making its way into schools and curriculum. How fast and how much depends on the district. But at this point, it seems teachers and administrators on Long Island are accepting AI rather than running from it.

Revolutionizing teaching and learning

One of those districts is Bellmore-Merrick Central High School, which is not just introducing AI to its students — it’s already turning it into a college-level course.

Offered through the computer science department at Calhoun High School in Merrick, the magnet course partners with Long Island University to offer the college credit to not only Calhoun students, but also those from Kennedy and Mepham high schools in Bellmore, too.

“Each project is aligned with artificial intelligence topics that showcase the practical applications of AI,” said Danielle Caliendo, the district’s mathematics and computer science chair.

Students learn the Python programming language while creating AI chatbots. They also program a robot created by a French technology company to use AI features like facial recognition. And they fly drones.

Students also completed a linear regression project designed to make predictions based on existing data, like how public company stocks might perform.

Each project is aligned with AI topics that showcase the tool’s practical applications.

Joe Innaco, who leads the district’s administrative and instructional technology efforts, sees technologies like ChatGPT— a free chatbot system designed to provide a human-like response to a prompt— as fascinating possibilities.

try class.

“If you look at the history, there was a lot of resistance because it would eliminate all the thinking of doing trigonometry,” he said. “It was used, and it was embraced. And it saves more time for creative thinking and innovation.”

“Our vision is of opportunity and innovation,” he said. “That’s how we see technologies like these. Opportunities and innovations for teachers. We want to provide training. We want to encourage exploration in model classrooms, spotlight success, and really host conversations about it.”

Embracing AI goes right to the stop of the Bellmore Public Schools district, where superintendent Joe Famularo already serves on several AI advisory boards at institutions like Adelphi University, New Tech Institute and LIU. He also participates in think tanks conducted to discover how to incorporate AI into the classroom in a safe and responsible way.

While change might be daunting to many, Famularo points out that it’s not unprecedented. Just think about how much opposition there was to bringing something as simple as a slide ruler into a trigonome-

Eventually came scientific calculators, and then the internet. Both received significant pushback, but now who could imagine a classroom without them?

Learning responsible use of AI Instructors at Lawrence Woodmere Academy in the Five Towns are guiding students there in to use AI responsibly. John Tiliakos — who teaches computer science in the middle and upper schools — tends to let his students lead discussions surrounding AI.

AI is coming into his middle schoollevel engineering and technology classes, as well as his more high school-level courses in aviation, aerospace and computer programming.

But even before that, Tiliakos was spreading the word about AI, teaching a class at LWA on how artificial intelligence works in our world.

While that class no longer exists, Tiliakos said he and the other teachers at LWA are still focusing on the same values of providing knowledge for proper use of the technology.

“AI is a great tool,” Tiliakos said. “There’s nothing wrong with it, if it’s used in a positive way.”

That’s why he focuses so much of his attention on inputs — the written instructions given to AI systems. Tiliakos believes that inquisitive nature of teenagers could lead to devious uses of the technology — like writing term papers and the like.

His responsibility, Tiliakos said, is to direct students toward feeding AI prompts that result in helpful information to be used for beneficial causes.

“When you use AI, you see scenarios based on what you did,” he said. “Every action is a reaction.”

But some teachers — even at LWA — aren’t too keen about the AI presence.

“I don’t think it’s positive or negative,” said Christopher Clark, a senior at the school. “It just depends on how you use it.”

One unlikely way of putting AI to use is through another somewhat newer technological offering: podcasting.

“AI is still new. But for podcasting, it’s still very, very new,” said Henry McDaniel, a theatre arts and oration teacher at LWA. “What it can do is help you write a script for your podcast.”

Podcasting students also can use AI to reproduce their own voice to read their scripts, McDaniel said. They then post the productions online.

“Our motto here is ‘at home with the world,’” he said. “What we’re trying to do is give them skillsets, but (also) teach them the responsible way of using those skillsets.”

Testing the waters

Implementing AI has been a little slower going in Long Beach, where the discussion on how best to use it continues.

Lorraine Radice, the school district’s literacy director, has worked to alleviate many of the fears some Long Beach teachers might have when it comes to AI, while looking for ways they could try to implement the technology into their respective classrooms.

“Over the summer, I taught two professional development courses in the district and taught teachers how to use ChatGPT,” Radice said. “I surveyed teachers in the fall across the district as to who was using ChatGPT and who knew about it. Even in the fall after about nine months of ChatGPT being in social media circulations and in the news — not as many people had used it as I expected.”

While Radice would very much like developing ways on how AI chatbots like ChatGPT can be used in classrooms, a lot of her time is still focused on educating teachers what exactly the AI software is.

“So, part of the goals of those summer professional development courses was to raise awareness of how to use it,” Radice said,” and then to really start to support teens in thinking about how it could be used from the planning side of being a teacher. And then also how it can be used as a tool to provide support and equitable access to writing and generating ideas for

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

New to schools in Bellmore and Merrick is a college-level artificial intelligence course. Partnering with Long Island University, the class is offered at Calhoun High School, where students can earn college credit by learning about the emerging technology.

Some teachers worry AI goes a little too far

ConTinued From PreViouS PAge

kids.”

Having access to AI has impacted classrooms already by allowing students to use it to aid research, while many teachers worry they could go too far and have AI completely answer questions and even write essays for them.

But that just means adapting.

A I is a great tool. There’s nothing wrong with it, if it’s used in a positive way

John TiliAkos teacher, Lawrence Woodmere Academy

“A teacher raised a great question during a session when talking about using artificial intelligence tools to analyze classical texts,” Radice said. “The same question has been asked so many times, and she asked, ‘If I could just get the answer from a tool like ChatGPT, then what’s the point of even asking this type of question?’

“That’s a great thing for people to think about. What is the point of this question? Can I rephrase this question that really puts the student at the center of the thinking, and not so much (a) media tool?”

But there is still a ways to go before AI becomes more commonly accepted in classrooms, Radice said. At least on Long Beach.

“I wouldn’t say that there is a push,” she said. “I think part of that is because of the privacy. We want to make sure that we’re using tools that are safe to use in school. And once we do that, then it can become a more consistent part of our practice.”

Parker Schug/Herald

Lawrence

HERALD SPORTS

Hofstra pushes for CAA playoff berth

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

After an up and down nonconference schedule, Hofstra women’s lacrosse gets a chance to hit the reset button with the start of conference play.

Hofstra entered the start of the Coastal Athletic Association portion of its schedule with a record of 3-4 and kicked off the league slate on an uplifting note with a 13-10 win at Campbell last Saturday.

The Pride is now looking to qualify for the four-team CAA tournament in early May after missing out on the postseason for the first time since 2018 last spring.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for a new season and I think we have started to find out a lot about ourselves and who we are as a team,” said 12th-year Hofstra head coach Shannon Smith. “Overall we have started to play better and we’re starting to hit our stride at the right part of our season when we go into conference play.”

The Pride have already equaled their win total from last season when Hofstra went 4-12 with two of those victories coming prior to a seasonending knee injury to rookie phenom Nikki Mennella. The now redshirtfreshman attacker is back healthy and is third on the team with 16 goals despite missing two games.

Graduate student Taylor Mennella, the older sister of Nikki, is tied for first on the team in scoring with 29 points on 19 goals and 10 assists. Hofstra has also gotten a boost from graduate student attacker Melissa Sconone, a University of North Carolina (UNC) transfer who also has 29 points.

“She brings a lot of leadership and a lot of experience and a calming presence,” said Smith of Sconone, who tal-

lied 35 goals during her UNC career and was part of the Tar Heels’ 2022 national championship team. “She’s been nothing but a tremendous addition and asset to our team.”

Senior midfielder Kerry Walser has provided key veteran leadership in her final season with —- goals so far. The Bay Shore native was an integral part of the 2021 Hofstra team that received an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament her freshman season.

The Hofstra defense– led by Trinity Reed, Brynn Hepting, Ashlyn McDonald and Christine Dannenfelser— held Wagner scoreless for three quarters in a dominating 15-2 win on March 5. Sophomore goalie Luchianna Cardello is starting in net for the second straight season and recorded 10 saves in a season-open-

ing 13-5 victory against Long Island University on Feb. 10.

The Pride’s roster features plenty of Long Island players including senior attacker Grace Pupke, who was a standout at Seaford High School. Pupke registered an assist late in the Wagner win and is often utilized in the player-up situations on the offense.

“Grace is one of our hardest workers on our team,” said Smith of Pupke, who registered 44 goals and 16 assists during her final high school season at Seaford in 2019. “She’s a great person and a great teammate and brings a lot of energy to our practices.”

Hofstra will host William & Mary in its CAA opener this Friday, March 22 at 5 p.m. before returning home Sunday to face Elon at noon. The Pride will also

host Monmouth on April 12 at 5p.m. and close the conference schedule on April 27 versus Drexel at noon. The remaining road league schedule is highlighted by an April 21 visit to Long Island rival and defending CAA champion Stony Brook at noon.

“Every game that you play is a backyard brawl and anyone can win on any given day in our conference,” Smith said. “I’m just super excited for the journey that we’re about to go on with our team for conference play.”

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications Grad student Taylor Mennella is off to a sizzling start for the Pride with 29 points through seven games.

Redshirt freshman Nikki Mennella has found the back of the net 16 times already this spring.

Caitlyn Jenner supports trans athlete ban

By PARKER SCHUG pschug@liherald.com

Caitlyn Jenner wouldn’t be allowed to participate in women-focused team sports on Nassau County property — but she’s OK with that.

The transgender former Olympic gold metal-winning decathlete joined County Executive Bruce Blakeman in Mineola Monday to express her support for Blakeman’s ban on transgender girls and women participating in teams geared exclusively toward girls and women on county property.

“I have empathy for all LGBT people, and I have a thorough understanding of all the struggles, no matter how different our circumstances,” Jenner said.

Jenner — who transitioned into a woman in 2015 had a six-year career in the Olympic men’s decathlon, taking the gold at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Before, Jenner played college football for the Graceland Yellow Jackets.

She recounted her time training and competing in the Olympics, and the saliva tests that the International Olympic Committee used to test for biological male and femaleness.

“It is done in a matter to protect the integrity of the competition,” Jenner said. “Today, the problem is even more clear. Trans women are competing against women, taking valuable opportunities from the law-protected class under Title IX, and causing physical harm.”

Jenner talked about a North Carolina high school volleyball player who said she was injured after a transgender opponent spiked the ball on her during a game.

“In volleyball, we think of it as a non-contact sport,” Jenner said, “but these are the statistics.”

The women’s net is 7.5 inches lower than the men’s net, making it easier to spike, she said. Men also tend to

be 8 inches taller than women on the volleyball scene, and can jump 6 inches higher.

“The average spike for the men, a good spike, is 82 miles an hour,” Jenner said. “The average spike for women, 64 miles per hour, 30 percent greater velocity playing a man. And that’s why we have to protect women’s sports.”

Since her transition, Jenner has become a transgender rights activist, and has starred in her own reality television show, “I Am Cait,” documenting her transition.

Jenner ran as a Republican for California governor during the 2021 unsuccessful recall election, earning just 1 percent of the vote.

But not everyone agrees with what Jenner stands for — even in the LGBTQ+ community. David Kilmnick, president and founder of Long Island-based LGBT Network, said Jenner’s support of Blakeman’s executive order is a contradiction to her own identity.

“Embracing policies or ideologies that undermine the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals is not only hypocritical, but also harmful,” Kilmnick said, in a statement. “Jenner’s alignment with such positions not only perpetuates discrimination, but also adds fuel to the rising number of violent and hate incidents committed against transgender individuals.”

Blakeman signed his executive order last month demanding sports, leagues, organizations, teams, programs or sport entities operating in county facilities designate themselves based on male, female or co-ed, and then only accept athletes who meet that criteria according to what was originally listed on their birth certificate.

While those born male would not be allowed to participate in female teams, the order does not ban females from joining male teams.

“My executive order has one goal, and that is to make sure that competition is fair and safe in Nassau County,” Blakeman said. “That we protect women and girls, so that when they train for an athletic competition — when they train to get on a team, when they’re in a meet or tournament — they have the ability to compete fairly.”

Attorney General Letitia James sent a cease-anddesist letter to Blakeman earlier this month, demanding he rescind his executive order, calling it not only transphobic, but also illegal under the state’s human rights and civil rights laws.

Blakeman responded a few days later by joining Mark Mullen, a Nassau County parent of a female athlete, to file a federal lawsuit contesting the order.

10th annual chili cook-off at Holy Trinity

The Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow recently held its 10th annual Chili Cook-Off on March 10, a fun-filled event that centers around one thing: eating and voting on the best chili.

Tickets were $10 per person, which got participants access to allyou-can-eat chili, as well as the right the vote for the best one. Luke Kraus of East Meadow won the competition; in second place was George Zabierowski of Valley Stream; and in third, Alexander Eagan of Hempstead and Paula Schumacher of North Massapequa.

The cook-off serves as an opportunity for members of the church to eat meat before the Great Lent begins. The Great Lent is an important fasting season in the church year within many denominations of Eastern Christianity. It prepares Christians in the Orthodox Church for the greatest feast of the year, which is Easter. Orthodox Easter will take place on May 5.

Lent is observed as a time of prayer, penance food will and fasting, which is intensified during the Holy Week — the period immediately before Easter.

Holy Trinity Orthodoc Church was founded in 1924, and was the first Orthodox Christian parish established in the Long Island region. It was made up of Easter European immigrants. Following the period after World War II, the parish grew drastically in size, allowing it blossom over the next several decades into what it is today.

The church offers opportunity for its parishioners to get involved and learn about their faith. There’s educational opportunities for people of all ages.

Holy Trinity is located at 369 Green Ave., East Meadow. For more information on the church and upcoming events, visit HTOCEM.org, email info@ htocem.org or call (516) 483-3649.

–Jordan Vallone

Brittany Krilov/Herald photos

The Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow held its annual Chili Cook-Off, which brought together dozens of members of the church community.

Merwin Varughese of New Hyde Park with Father Martin Kraus of East Meadow and Kaedon Campbell of Freeport at the cook-off on March 10.

MaryAnn Crowley of Franklin Square and Valerie Eagen of Merrick, together at Holy Trinity’s event earlier this month.

Chili entries were lined up on tables, ready to eaten — and judged — by a hungry crowd.

From left, George Zabierowski took second place, Alexander Eagen and Paula Schumacher took third place, and Luke Kraus, with Father Martin Kraus, took first place.

The event serves as an opportunity for members of the church community to enjoy meat before the Great Lent — the period before Easter — begins.

HERALD SchoolS

Dave Spinnato begins new role in E.M.

The East Meadow School District is proud to announce that Dave Spinnato has been named the new assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, effective March 1.

Spinnato attended St. John’s University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, and a Master of Science degree in adolescent education. An educator for 20 years, Spinnato’s career in education began as a secondary school teacher in the Sewanhaka Central High School District in 2004 where he taught numerous science classes.

In 2018, Spinnato was appointed as the director of technology in the Elmont Union Free School District. Last year, Spinnato served as the assistant superintendent for curriculum and technology in the Elmont Union Free School District.

“I come from a family of educators,” Spinnato said. “Both of my parents were educators for many years, and I followed my dad’s footsteps as a high school science teacher.”

Having a strong background in K-12 school districts, Spinnato said that his past experiences has given him a better understanding of what to expect in a large school district like East Meadow.

“Right now, I’m really looking forward to meeting all of the faculty and staff members at each building in the district,” Spinnato said.

“We have an amazing administrative team here in

East Meadow and I’m really excited to work with them.” Spinnato added that he is an avid sports fan, he enjoys music and art, and he hopes to attend the district’s sporting events, art exhibits and concerts throughout the year.

At a Board of Education meeting in January, School board President Matthew Melnick said at the meeting that Spinnato was “highly thought of through each phase of the interview process, which included interviewing with teachers, administrators, cabinet members and finally the Board of Education.”

“I believe I speak for the board when I say that Mr. Spinnato impressed us not only with his experience, but also his forward-thinking ideas, which will be an asset to our district,” Melnick said.

“We’re excited to be able to fill this very important position in our district with someone who has extensive experience in elementary through high school education,” he added.

The district commends Spinnato on his new position and looks forward to his service in the East Meadow school community.

The East Meadow School District announced that Dave Spinnato has been named the new assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, effective March 1.

Courtesy East Meadow Union Free School District

‘Robyn Reads’ spreads her love of books

By RACHELE TERRANOVA rterranova@liherald.com

Robyn Bonavita, a book reviewer, was looking for connection like many others during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. She decided to start a book Instagram, or “Bookstagram,” to connect with other readers. Over the past four years, she has garnered over 17,000 followers on her Instagram page, @robyn_ reads1.

What started as a way to build community turned into Bonavita receiving books from publishers to review for her thousands of followers.

This is not Bonavita’s first time reviewing books — she was a book reviewer many years ago for print magazines and websites before she let the hobby fall to the wayside when she went to work as a teacher. Now, a stay at home mom, she has been able to reignite her love for book reviewing.

“It was totally for fun,” Bonavita said. “I didn’t know that it would kind of take off the way it did. I got very lucky in the way that my friends and family were so supportive, and they were always telling people ‘Oh, my person is a bookstagramer, you should follow her if you love to read.’”

Eventually, when she gained enough traction, publishers started sharing her page as well.

Bonavita’s love for reading soon spread beyond sharing her current reads on her

Instagram page. She decided she wanted to open a Little Free Library.

Little Free Library is a nonprofit based in St. Paul, Minnesota, that provides free access to books for the community. The global network of volunteer-led Little Free Library book boxes are placed in communities around the world where people can come take a book and leave a book at any time. The goal is to provide greater access to books and empower all people to read.

“Not everybody could afford books,” Bonavita said. “And sometimes you just want to find something new, and I get so many books from the publishers that I would love to share with people.”

Enlisting her husband to build the book box, in its customary house-like design, she registered to have the Little Free Library right in North Bellmore. Now, the box is open and stands proud, even crafted with siding to match their own home.

“I truly feel like when you share books, you’re sharing a different message to each person because everybody looks at books differently,” she said. “Everybody will take a different message from the same book— and you never know if you’re giving someone just an escape or a relief or just even happiness. So, every time you share a book, you’re just sharing your happiness.”

Visit LittleFreeLibrary.org/map/ to find a Little Free Library in the area, including Bonavita’s.

Courtesy Robyn Bonavita

Robyn Bonavita opened a Little Free Library for residents to have access to books, and the opportunity to share their favorite books with their community.

Sands New York Donates $200,000 to Family and Children’s Association to Expand Services

Family and Children’s Association (FCA), Long Island’s leading health and human services nonprofit organization, announced the opening of two FCA Gambling Support and Wellness Centers, one in Hempstead, the other in Hicksville. The services available in these centers will be made possible partially through a $200,000 donation made by Sands New York.

“We know that most people who gamble, do it as a form of entertainment. As a responsible community partner and industry-leading entertainment company we must identify and help solve for issues in our community,” said Ron Reese, Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands. “We are proud to partner with FCA to provide this valuable resource to Long Islanders.”

According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, about 85% of U.S. adults have gambled at least once in their lives, with 60% having gambled within the past year. However, between 1% and 2% of the U.S. adult population, or 2 to 4 million adults, will

experience a gambling disorder in their lifetime. “From the state lottery expansion to casinos to online sports betting, which became legal in New York in 2021, gambling is here to stay. It’s imperative that we introduce new programs to identify and treat problem gambling especially as the need emerges,” said FCA President and CEO Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds. “This is particularly important for college kids and people who already have a casino that blinks, beeps and beckons in their back pocket 24/7. We want to make the resources readily available to every Long Islander who needs or wants help.”

With the increase in online sports betting, gambling has reached newer, younger audiences, many unaware of the larger consequences of problem gambling. New York recently announced that it generated $862 million from mobile sports wagering in its second year of operation. When added to the $693 million and $200 million in licensing fees collected in 2022, that brings the total generated revenue to $1.75 billion.

We want to make the resources readily available to every Long Islander who needs or wants help.

Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, Family and Children’s Association President and CEO

We are proud to partner with FCA to provide this valuable resource to Long Islanders.

Ron Reese, Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands

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

Fca will open two Gambling support and wellness centers on Long Island

Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands Ron Reese speaks at a press conference at the Family and Children’s Association headquarters in Garden City.

Las Vegas Sands Named to Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies List for its 10th Appearance

one of only two hotel and gaming companies included, sands’ 2024 recognition demonstrates the value it delivers to host regions and the hospitality industry

Las Vegas Sands has again been named one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies in the news outlet’s 2024 list of the most respected and reputable global businesses, marking the company’s 10th appearance on the list.

“Sands’ being included on Fortune’s list is an endorsement of our performance in delivering economic, social and environmental value to our communities, Team Members, investors and customers,” said Patrick Dumont, President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands. “Entering 2024 with this recognition demonstrates our ability to successfully navigate change and evolution, while remaining focused on the positive impact we strive to deliver.”

Sands is the largest global developer and operator of world-class integrated resorts. Combining luxury hotel rooms and suites, gaming, state-of-the-art meeting and convention facilities, expansive retail offerings and an array of entertainment attractions, the company’s iconic integrated resorts are premier attractions that draw hundreds of thousands of business and leisure tourists to its regions annually.

In each of its regions, Sands is focused on being the employer and partner of choice; keeping its communities strong by making them ideal places to live, work and visit; and minimizing environmental impact by being a leader in preserving natural resources and incorporating sustainable practices.

With the goal of achieving measured, ongoing environmental, social and governance progress in these areas, the company established 2021-2025 ambitions to invest $200 million in workforce development, contribute 150,000 volunteer hours to its communities and reduce carbon emissions by 17.5% by the end of the period, mapping to its People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

Under the Communities pillar, the company surpassed its 150,000 community service hours at the end of 2022 because of extensive support for pandemic-related initiatives, along with core Sands Cares volunteer efforts. The new 2025 target will be announced in Sands’ next ESG report in spring 2024, along with progress toward all three ambitions.

As of 2022 reporting, the company had invested $56 million in workforce development initiatives, bringing its cumulative investment to $113 million since 2021, well past the halfway point. Carbon emissions reduction was at 50%; however, that figure reflected continued pandemic-related impact on property visitation and will be updated in the 2023 ESG report.

Sands’ designation on the Fortune World’s Most Admired Companies list follows recent recognition on Newsweek’s 2024 America’s Most Responsible Companies list as well as the 2023 Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America Indices.

As in the past, Fortune collaborated with its partner Korn Ferry on this survey of corporate reputations, which began with a universe of about 1,500 candidates: the 1,000 largest U.S. companies ranked by revenue, along with nonU.S. companies in Fortune’s Global 500 database that have revenues of $10 billion or more. The assortment was winnowed to the highestrevenue companies in each industry, a total of 660 in 29 countries. The top-rated companies were picked from that pool of 660; the executives who voted work at the companies in that group.

To determine the best-regarded companies in 52 industries, Korn Ferry asked executives, directors, and analysts to rate enterprises in their own industry on nine criteria, from investment value and quality of management and products to social responsibility and ability to attract talent. A company’s score must rank in the top half of its industry survey to be listed. For complete rankings, visit fortune.com.

Continued from page 1

The addition of 3 downstate gaming licenses to be awarded by New York State is expected to further increase state revenue from gambling. Sands New York is currently preparing a bid for one of the three available gaming licenses for its planned integrated resort and entertainment center at the Nassau Coliseum property in Uniondale, New York.

FCA, with its 140-year history of helping Long Islanders, has won state certification from the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) to provide problem gambling counseling and support to those who need or want help. FCA’s new Gambling Support and Wellness Centers will offer individual, group, and family counseling including financial counseling and planning to individuals and families experiencing problem gambling issues.

The announcement was made during a press conference at FCA headquarters in

Sands New York and Minority Millennials partner to host NextGen Supplier Diversity Gathering

In a bid to bolster local supplier diversity and entrepreneurship, Long Island-based Minority Millennials and Sands New York recently joined forces on The NextGen Supplier Diversity Gathering at the Barclays Center for a spirited Brooklyn Nets game.

This partnership event served to offer essential resources and connections for Minority, Women, and Veteran-owned business proprietors potentially interested in bidding for contracts with the Sands’ planned development in Uniondale. This collaboration between Sands New York and Minority Millennials not only equips business owners with vital information and contacts but also beckons the next wave of community entrepreneurs, eager to carve their niche in the Long Island economy.

"These types of intimate networking opportunities with likeminded business owners are rare and extremely valuable. Getting to speak face to face with other suppliers and Sands executive leadership can really be a game changer for my company," said Daphne Baptiste, from Valley Stream.

Participants seized the opportunity, recognizing the potential to expand their networks and stimulate economic growth, facilitating invaluable connections, shared insights, and fostering potential partnerships.

Sands New York looks forward to continuing programming that highlights its commitment to nurturing local business prospects

and cultivating the professional advancement of diverse, young talent, underlining their unwavering dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive local economy.

Garden City. Joining FCA President and CEO Jeffrey L. Reynolds, PhD at the podium were FCA Assistance VP Clinical Services Nicolle Vasselman; Pam Brenner-Davis, Regional Team

Lead NY Council on Problem Gambling Resource Center; Ron Reese, Sr. Vice President Las Vegas Sands; Representatives from Jake’s 58".

Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, Family and Children’s Association President and CEO, announces the opening of two Gambling Support and Wellness Centers at a press conference at FCA’s headquarters in Garden City.

Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Members from Sands New York and Minority Millennials met at the NextGen Supplier Diversity gathering held at the Barclays Center in February.

Sands New York engages local businesses for procurement opportunities

Sands procurement executives Chad Forster and Uzoma Ehimere joined the Business Development and Tourism Work Group on Thursday, Feb. 22 to build a plan to engage local businesses into the Sands procurement pipeline for opportunities stemming from the project.

The work group was convened to connect Sands with Long Island local and regional stakeholders and has met consistently for over a year to help inform the public about the project and direct local business owners on how to get involved in the tremendous opportunities the development presents. With the work group's guidance, Sands and the regional chambers have produced the procurement academy and resource fair event series at Nassau Community College, Suffolk Community College, and virtually, as well as the widely attended Chambers Clink + Collaborate event at the Coliseum.

The most recent meeting centered on building out the next steps for local businesses in the Sands procurement pipeline. The robust discussion included representatives from the local and regional chambers, small business development centers, and local business non-profits to ensure that Long Island’s business community is fully informed on how to stay involved as the project grows closer.

who we are:

Photo provided by Sands

Photo: Chad Forster and Uzoma Ehimere of Sands New York meet with the Business Development and Tourism Work Group to identify opportunities for local business owners.

STEPPING OUT

An artistic revolution on view at Hofstra Museum Unlocking the

By Danielle Schwab

Dreams collide with reality and the subconscious reigns supreme. That’s the essence of the transformative approach of the avant garde artists at the forefront of the Surrealist Movement. Inspired by André Breton’s 1924 Surrealist Manifesto in France, artists, writers and filmmakers diverged from conventional thought to explore ideas such as the unconscious and the irrational.

Step into the fascinating creativity of the surrealists at Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibit “Les Visionnaires: In the Modernist Spirit.” It’s a deep dive into what became a new movement that transformed how artists moved on from rigid historical styles to invent new ways to respond to their world.

The exhibit commemorates the 100th year of the Surrealist Manifesto, which forever changed artistic practice. More than 70 works from 1924 through the 1970s — sourced from the Museum’s permanent collection and the Howard L. and Muriel Weingrow Collection of AvantGarde Art and Literature from Hofstra University Special Collections — are on view.

something powerful,” Giordano adds. “Their partnerships and collective approach captured the realities and hopes of modern society.”

She cites Salvatore Dalí’s lithograph “Untitled from Memories of Surrealism,” (a suite of 12 prints he created in 1971 reflecting on his long artistic career) as a prime example of the movement’s significance.

Rick Wakeman

Keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman is headed back on the road for one last jaunt, ‘The Final Solo Tour.’ Known for his incredible talents, sense of humor, and multitudinous back catalog, expect to hear some of his best-known hits from both his solo career and his collaborations with Yes, Bowie and more among musings and hilarious tales from his 50-plus years in the music industry. Wakeman — who has become almost as well-known for his intimate piano shows as his prog rock extravaganzas — has decided that after a decades spanning career spanning he is calling a halt to lengthy American one-man show tours, in order to concentrate on composing, recording and collaborating with other musicians. In addition to his musicianship, Wakeman has evolved into a well-loved television presenter and author, with his bawdy British wit endearing him to audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.

Friday, March 22, 8 p.m. $75, $5, $45, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

• Now through July 26

• Saturday and Sunday, noon4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Emily Lowe Gallery, Hall, South Campus, Hempstead.

“The manifesto is important because artists from this time period are breaking away from the French Academy,” Alexandra Giordano, Hofstra University Museum of Art’s director and co-curator of the exhibit, explains. “It’s a concrete way to unify artists working in different styles. The manifesto really engages the unconscious mind, the importance of dreams and free association, the rejection of rational thought. It’s revolutionary because it’s really about the liberation of the imagination.”

• For information, and to RSVP to related events, call (516) 463-5672 or visit Hofstra.edu/ museum

Suddenly, artists whose work was tethered to the French Academy, established in 1635, realized that new modalities, mediums, and methodologies were a more appropriate way to respond to the rapidly changing world in which they lived. “Political, economic and cultural shifts inspired a new forward-thinking attitude in artists who, in turn, discovered radical innovations in aesthetic forms, techniques and content. Paris was the epicenter. Artists were drawn to the city, where a drive for pushing boundaries and sharing their transformative vision thrived,” Giordano explains in the forward to the exhibit catalog.

Jean Arp, Marc Chagall, Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dalí, Max Ernst and Joan Miró are among the 25 artists and writers represented here. Besides the artworks, first-edition books are on display including an original copy of the Surrealist Manifesto. Françoise Gilot, who had a tumultuous, decade-long partnership with Picasso and is the mother of two of his children, also figures prominently in the exhibit. Gilot had a close association with Hofstra and was awarded an honorary doctorate in 1982. She was an honorary conference chair of the 1985 Hofstra Cultural Center conference “Toward a Reappraisal of Modernism,” a program on avant-garde art and literature.

The Surrealist movement emerged in response to shifting political and societal landscapes.

“You had World War I and World War II that were devastating events, but at the exact same time you had Sigmund Freud’s interpretation of dreams,” Giordano says. “All of these new ideas were being explored, juxtaposed to these scary world events. Artists were responding to it all.”

Paris became a hub for artists to collaborate — sharing ideas, living spaces, lovers, and friends.

“They show us how we can work with our peers to produce

“It reflects on the stream of consciousness with this out-of-body experience,” she says. “You have this large eye in the background, there’s a clock on the pupil and (in the forefront) there’s butterflies. It captures otherworldliness.”

Not only was a change of ideas happening at the time, but also a change of mediums.

“They focused on interdisciplinary vision using a lot of different materials,” Giordano says. “In addition to this dream-like quality and imagery, there is also this idea of collaboration for bookmaking, photography, collage, poetry, set design and film. These artists created these new ideas towards art, which was a deviation from the expected outcome.”

One of the ‘Les Visionnaires’ as they were known, was filmmaker and artist Jean Cocteau, who directed the 1946 adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast” (La Belle et la Bête). Based on the original fairytale with a surrealist twist, the film is a testament to bringing the traditional to reinvention. Visitors can view portions of the film throughout the exhibit.

As always, related programming enhances the exhibit. For those who want a more in-depth look, join Giordano for a guided exhibit tour and discussion, Tuesday, April 16, at 5 p.m. During the tour, as Giordano puts it, participants will learn all the “juicy tidbits.”

As Long Island’s only nationally accredited public-facing academic museum, Hofstra Museum is an important local resource.

“Our neighboring communities don’t realize that they don’t have to travel to New York City to see wonderful art, they can come here,” Giordano adds. “They can be nose-to-nose with important artists, and experience this beautiful art in their backyard.”

The exhibit includes Salvador Dalí’s etching and lithograph, Untitled, from Memories of Surrealism, Portfolio, 1971. A gift of Benjamin Bickerman. Also Françoise Gilot’s lithograph IX, from On the Stone: Poems and Lithographs (Sur La Pierre: Poemes et Lithographies), 1972. Courtesy of Special Collections, Joan and Donald E. Axinn Library, Hofstra University.

Comedy’s ‘Ivy League’

The Ivy League of Comedy arrives on Long Island with their elite brand of clever humor. Carmen Lynch (above), Ryan Reiss and Shaun Eli deliver the laughs in this fast-paced evening of stand-up. Lynch, who made it to the semi-finals of NBC’s ‘Last Comic Standing,’ is known for her deadpan delivery and riffs on life. A rising star from a bilingual family, who lived in Spain as a child, she’s appeared on a string of latenight television shows,’Inside Amy Schumer,’ and more. Funnyman Reis, also a writer-actor, began his career while attending NYU, and quickly became a favorite act on the scene. His quick wit and instant likability have made him one of the most sought-after comics on the club circuit. Eli has rightfully been called one of America’s smartest comics. Whether it’s a story about dining with a vegetarian or successfully fighting a parking ticket in criminal court, master storyteller Eli shows you that there’s hilarity in the ordinary if you approach life with a comedic warp. For just about anything he’s experienced he has hilarious stories at the ready.

Saturday, March 23, 8 p.m. $45-$50. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at MadisonTheatreNY.org or (516) 323-4444.

Francois Gilot

Salvador Dali

THE Your Neighborhood

March 30

So Good: The Neil Diamond Experience

Get ready for an unforgettable night on the Paramount stage, Saturday, March 30, 8 p.m. Robert Neary honors an icon with The Neil Diamond Experience, a tribute show like no other. With over 35 years as a Broadway, TV, and film actor, Neary brings a unique touch to this production, weaving Neil Diamond’s greatest hits with stories from interviews, quotes, and autobiographical books. Neary creates an incredible cut above the rest tribute show. You will swear you are watching the master himself as he and the band perform Neil Diamond’s greatest hits. With his powerful presence, from the moment he struts on stage wearing trademark black, gray, and silver sequined jacket, Neary, uncannily, resembles Neil Diamond at the height of his touring career in the 90s and 2000s. His wit and mannerisms on stage is spot on, especially when he plays his guitar. When he speaks and tells the stories and trivia behind some of Neil’s most popular songs, his rich baritone gravelly voice can easily be mistaken for Neil’s own speaking voice. But make no mistake about it at all, if you close your eyes and listen to him sing any of the 22 classic Neil Diamond songs with the magnificent band behind him, you will swear you are listening to the Master himself. This truly is, the most authentic tribute to one of the greatest artists in musical history. The title says it all. It is the quintessential Neil Diamond Concert Experience. With a finale that will blow your mind, the show is guaranteed to have you on your feet dancing and cheering. $49.50, $39.50, $35, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Bird walk

See some birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for the next in its series of bird walks, at Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve, Sunday, March 24, starting at 9 a.m. The entrance road to the Norman Levy Preserve is located on the south side of Merrick Road, just east of the Meadowbrook Parkway.

Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet at the gazebo. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 4679498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit SSAudubon.org.

Mary Ruchalski Foundation Run

Participate in the Mary Ruchalski Foundation 5K and Fun Run, Sunday, April 7, in Eisenhower Park. The run raises money for pediatric cancer research to support families impacted by cancer. Check in is 8 a.m.; the race begins promptly at 9 in Field 2 of the park. Register online for the 5K, which costs $30, or the 1-mile fun run, which costs $15. For more, visit Events. EliteFeats.com/24Ruchalski.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Urban Art Evolution,” is a comprehensive exhibit featuring a diverse range of compositions from the 1980s through the present by creators who were based in the rough and tumble downtown area of New York City known as Loisaida/LES (Lower East Side/East Village) and close surrounding neighborhoods.

Artists pushed the boundaries of what was considered “art” with a primary focus on street/graffiti art. The exhibit’s scope, guest curated by art collector/gallerist Christopher Pusey, offers an even broader view from other creative residents, who worked inside their studios but still contributed to the rich fabric of the downtown art scene from different vantage points and aesthetics.

Works include sculpture, paintings, photography, music, and ephemera from many noted and influential artists.

Opens March 23, on view through July 7. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

March 27

Literary conversation

Poet-essayist Elizabeth

Schmermund, who is an assistant professor of English at SUNY Old Westbury, reads from her works, as part of Hofstra University’s Great Writers Great Readings series, Wednesday, March 27, 4:30 p.m. Her work has appeared in The Independent, Mantis, and Gyroscope Review, among other venues. Her first poetry chapbook, “Alexander the Great,” is published by Finishing Line Press. Free and open to the public. Guthart Cultural Center Theater, Axinn Library, South Campus, Hempstead. Register in advance at events.hofstra. edu or call the Hofstra Cultural Center at (516) 463-5669 for more information.

Easter Egg Hunt

Stew Leonard’s in East Meadow hosts an Easter Egg Hunt, Tuesday, March 26, 4 p.m. Kids ages 8 and under will be provide with a bag to collect Easter eggs filled with candy throughout the store. Five lucky children will open an egg and reveal a special ticket, redeemable for a grand prize. Tickets are required to attend due to the popularity of the event. Visit EventBrite.com and search Stew Leonard’s’ to reserve a ticket. 1897 Front St., East Meadow.

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art, Saturday, March 23, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for to register or call (516) 4849337.

Chamber Egg Hunt

East Meadow Chamber of Commerce hosts its 5th annual Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, March 30, 11 a.m. 2 p.m., in Veteran’s Memorial Park. Registration required. 1700 Prospect Ave., East Meadow. For more, visit EastMeadowChamber.com.

Having an event?

Mobile Office Hours

State Senator

Steve Rhoads holds mobile office hours at East Meadow Public Library, Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m.- noon. This is a great way to meet with Sen. Rhoads about issues and questions affecting the 5th State Senate District. Appointments are required, but walk-ins are welcome if time permits. 1886 Front St. To schedule an appointment, call (516) 882-0630. Sen. Rhoads is holding office hours at other nearby libraries as well during different days throughout the spring.

Mah Jongg

Enjoy Mah Jongg and canasta, Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., at East Meadow Beth El Jewish Center. $5 contribution. No outside food allowed. Bring your own games and cards. Lessons available. 1400 Prospect Ave. Call (516) 483 4205 for more information.

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.

In concert

Plaza Theatrical welcomes spring with a lively tribute to The Temptations, Saturday, March 23, 7:30 p.m. Groove along with The Fellas, in their concert “Just My Imagination,” a powerful salute to the Motown icons. Enjoy all those great tunes, including “Just My Imagination,” “My Girl,” “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” and more. See the concert at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre. 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $40, $35 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Get hoppy

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes spring when it opens its doors for an after-hours celebration, “Spring EGGstravaganza,” Saturday, March 23. Peter Cottontail greets families, 6-9 p.m., with a night of engaging activities celebrating iconic symbols of the season. Children can start their evening by decorating a Cool Carrot goody bag to collect items throughout the night. Activities include the creating such spring-themed items as a Bunny Puppet Pal, How Does your Garden Grow planter, an Everywhere a Chick Chick necklace and a Spring has Sprung hat. Also test your skills in egg relay races and take part in a museum-wide scavenger hunt. All that celebration got you egghausted? Make a sweet treat to recharge your energy.

The LICM Theater hosts eye-popping performances of BubbleMania Jr. with bubbleologist Jim Napolitano (6:15, 7:05 and 8 p.m.) Sit back and witness fascinating bubble sculptures being crafted and discover soap bubble tricks, with plenty of comedy and audience interaction woven into this spell-binding show. Dancing bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, arches and a bubble fountain on display create a truly memorable performance. (Additional ticket required for theater performance.) $15 per person ($13 members); BubbleMania Jr. ticket fees are $4 with EGGstravaganza admission ($3 members). Advance tickets are recommended for this popular event. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

JCC boxing class empowers body and mind

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Dozens of athletes gather at the Friedberg JCC each week for a unique lineup of boxing classes that are quickly becoming the undisputed champion in the community. The program has taken off under the leadership of North Merrick resident Steve Solomon.

The Friedberg JCC has branches located in Oceanside, and in South Merrick, at the former Temple Israel of South Merrick. Located at 2655 Clubhouse Road, the facility is now an annex of Congregation Beth Ohr in Bellmore.

The JCC offers three classes — one for those with special needs, another for those with Parkinson’s disease, both for JCC members, and a third for the general population. The general class is open to JCC members and nonmembers alike, and has quickly become a favorite among boxing enthusiasts across Long

LEGAL NOTICE

Island. The center becomes a sanctuary — a place where they can push their physical limits and find solace in the

Public Notices

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT:

COUNTY OF NASSAU

UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY

AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE

FOR LVS TITLE TRUST XIII, Plaintiff, v. ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE LATE

JOHN MARKERT, ET AL, Defendants.

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 January 6, 2023, I, Scott H. Siller, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on April 11, 2024 at On the north front steps, facing Old Country Road, of the Nassau County Supreme Court, located at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, NY, at 2:00PM the premises described as follows:

1903 Chester Drive East Meadow, NY 11554

Section: 50 Block: 456

Lot: 11

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. 007407/2016 in the amount of $466,074.15 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19

mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 145280

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE OF DWELLING SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. BERNADETTE O’ROURKE

A/K/A BERNADETTE

GONZALEZ, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 2, 2018 and an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on February 6, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 16, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 218 Belmont Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554.

All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 251 and Lots 308-310.

Approximate amount of judgment is $669,424.95 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of

filed Judgment Index #000501/2014. No cash will be accepted. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, 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, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Ellen Savino, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 222451-6 145447

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

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 Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 3/27/2024 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 197/24. EAST MEADOW2295 Hempstead LLC, Renewal of grant to maintain one doublefaced, illuminated monument sign (not permitted), 60 sq. ft. per face & overall size 120 sq. ft., overall height 18’,

setback 8’ from Hempstead Tpke., N/E cor. Clearmeadow Dr. & Hempstead Tpke., a/k/a 2295 Hempstead Tpke.

203/24. NR WESTBURYDenisse & Victor Cosme, Variance, height, maintain 2-story addition attached to dwelling., E/s Pleasant Ave., 256.70’ S/o Stewart Ave., a/k/a 832 Pleasant Ave. 204/24. EAST MEADOWEdgar Frias, Variance, side yard, maintain two (2) A/C units attached to dwelling., N/s Jackson Ave., 60’ W/o Fillmore Rd., a/k/a 1499 Jackson Ave.

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 & Westbury 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.

145544

To

rhythms of the ring.

Kevin Payne, 24, of New Hyde Park, says the classes have changed his life. Battling weight gain and searching for a sense of belonging, Payne found refuge in the gym. With the guidance of Solomon and the support of his classmates, Payne not only shed pounds, but also gained a newfound sense of purpose.

“I was 215 pounds, and I’m down to 168 now,” he said. “I was going down a bad track. I wasn’t taking care of myself, and I was super-unhealthy. But I was able to come here every day, and I’m in way better shape now. The thrill of it is what kept me doing it. There’s nothing similar to it.”

Payne, who praised Solomon for helping him get into shape, is looking to enter the world of professional fighting.

“I’m trying to get into MMA,” Payne said, referring to mixed martial arts. “I want to go to different gyms and get all the work possible. Just get good at fighting, because I want to be able to protect myself and my kids one day, and if I have a son, teach him.”

The general class is open to men, women and teens, and Solomon likes to keep things fun, mixing obstacle courses and a variety of exercises with the boxing training and sparring.

Gabe Santiago, a freshman at Oceanside High School, is the youngest member of the class at 15. He had tried wrestling before, but after watching the boxing film “Creed,” Santiago became enamored of boxing, has enjoyed the classes at the JCC and said he wants to stick with it.

“I really like that you can get some instruction, but then also do your own thing, too,” he said.

Solomon is a respected figure in the local sports scene, and boasts many years of boxing on Long Island, dating back to when he was a student at East Meadow High School. He took part in a boxing program at Echo Park, in West Hempstead, run by the late Arthur Mercante Sr., one of the sport’s best-known referees, who worked the legendary heavyweight championship between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in 1971, as well as other title bouts.

Solomon taught special-needs stu -

This boxing class packs a punch. From left are Max Muzykus, Ken Altman, Zachary Solomon, Gabriel Rodriquez, Kevin Payne, instructor Steve Solomon, Gabriel Santiago, Adrien Resto and Tyler Corcoran.

dents health and phys. ed. in several school districts throughout his career, including 30 years in the Uniondale School District. He implemented boxing in the schools, and when the JCC was looking for a boxing coach last year, Solomon was recommended for the position for his extensive work with the special-needs population.

D.J. Dingle, 40, a Long Beach native who works with the special-needs community in a multi-sports program at the JCC, found himself at a crossroads after a knee injury from basketball sidelined him two years ago. Hesitant to return to the court, Dingle discovered a new passion in boxing.

“I was out for, like, 12 weeks when I broke my knee, and as soon as I was able to come back, I was pushing basketball to the side and I’m focusing more on this,” he said. “It builds some discipline, and especially working with the special-needs community, you need patience and discipline, and that kind of transfers to them, because they feed off of that energy.”

Solomon’s son Zach, 23, is following his father’s path, and has a background in adaptive physical education. An alumnus of Sanford H. Calhoun High School in Merrick, Zach started working with people with special needs at the JCC along with Dingle, and assists his dad in the general boxing class. Zach also attends Adelphi University part-time, and, like his father, is a skilled boxer and an all-around athlete.

“I was around (the special-needs) population, so I have a nice, big heart for them, and I always wanted to help them out,” he said.

Zach was inspired when he saw his father box when he was young, and his dad coached him in multiple intramural sports, including basketball. As the boxing program continues to grow, Steve said, he hopes to be able to continue coaching alongside his son, even after he starts coaching at a local school district.

“We want to coach together,” Steve said. “I got my license and he’ll get his. Maybe we’ll be working in the schools together because together we’re a good combination.”

Keith Rossein/Herald

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We asked for a variance and were turned down

Q. After a lot of delays, due partly to Covid, we were turned down for a zoning variance and are wondering what to do. We have a café that has been operating for over 20 years, which we bought from a couple who were retiring, and everything seemed to be legal. Our building department told us that we needed a variance because we didn’t have enough parking, and that we had 20 seats instead of 12. Twelve seats was a takeout, but these days, if you don’t have enough seats, you won’t stay in business very long. So we asked for a variance, and we were turned down. Also, our plans didn’t show that we do have parking on the street, and use a public lot and some other businesses nearby. What can you tell us about our situation? We don’t want to lose our location, and anything we do will need plans, and we realize our architect had never dealt with this before.

A. As common as this problem is, you would need to appeal your case by filing for the appeal with the court, with an attorney, within 30 days, in what is referred to as an Article 78. In order to make your case, you would need accurate plans, plus what you already have, the minutes of your hearing for an attorney to review, plus any documentation you already had through the process of the building application over all the time you described.

Ask The Architect

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In addition, you would need all the old records of the property that were filed for any and all permits for the previous uses going back to the very beginning of the take-out or retail space. It sounds like a lot, and it might be, but you have a difficult case to prove, because parking on your property is usually the biggest issue in any use variance. A use permit always requires that there be adequate parking, and if there isn’t enough on-site parking, the request for a variance (to vary from the requirements) would then be your appeal.

By changing the use from takeout, where people are coming and going, to an assembly space of people who are lingering, triggers all kinds of building and safety codes. Once you get to a restaurant from a take-out by serving more than 12 people, you need male- and female-use restrooms or, depending on the jurisdiction, enough fixtures and privacy to serve the occupants, based on specific chapters from the plumbing code, the handicapped-access code and the building code, requiring more floor space.

You also have issues with fire marshal and fire safety equipment, depending on the area in square feet area and the number of occupants. Your attorney and architect can craft your case, but you have to be flexible enough to meet certain basic codes to be able to convince a court that the first level of the process can be overturned. You can do this! Good luck!

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Our communities need more doctors who look like me

I’m 26, and have lived virtually my whole life in Hempstead. I’ve seen a lot of health-related issues — lowincome people of color, like me, suffering from chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and untreated mental illness. Often they haven’t been able to receive proper treatment for their conditions. I wanted to do something about it, and soon I will be able to, because I’m on my way to becoming a doctor.

There was a one-in-a-million chance that I would ever reach this goal. I’m an African-American woman from a low-income neighborhood, raised in a single-parent household. My father was incarcerated by the time I knew what it meant to have one, and remains imprisoned to this day — though he’s using this time to reflect and to continue his education. My mother, a crossing guard, worked extremely hard to provide for my brother and me, but

there were days when the money she made didn’t seem like enough to put food on the table, or ensure that we would keep a roof over our heads, or keep us from falling victim to the violence that plagued our community.

TI had to fight every step of the way to become the person I wanted to be. I graduated from Hempstead High School in 2015 in the top 1 percent of my class, and then, thanks to Stony Brook University’s Economic Opportunity Program, I graduated in 2019 with a double major in biology and psychology, and went on to earn a master’s in physiology and biophysics. I was the first person in my family to go to college, so there was no blueprint to follow but the one I created along the way.

icine and Biomedical Sciences is lifechanging. There are classes to prepare me for the rigors of medical school, and a stipend I can use for living expenses so I can focus on my studies. I have mentors to turn to for help.

here was a one-in-amillion chance that I would ever be able to go to medical school.

I got jobs in the health care field, but becoming a doctor seemed out of reach until I was selected for the Diversity in Medicine pipeline program sponsored by Associated Medical Schools of New York. This post-baccalaureate program at SUNY Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Med-

Most important, if I successfully complete the oneyear program, I will go to medical school in the fall, and could be selected to receive AMSNY’s Diversity in Medicine Scholarship to help defray the cost. This amazing program is 100 percent state-funded.

Pipeline programs like this are needed to help diversify the physician workforce. Research has shown that patients are more likely to visit and follow the instructions of doctors who understand their language and culture, resulting in better health outcomes. Yet in New York state, where more than 30 percent of the population identifies as Black or Hispanic, just 13 percent of the state’s doctors come from those groups.

Physicians from racial and ethnic groups that are underrepresented are

more likely to go into primary care and practice in under-served communities, where they are desperately needed. I have seen 30 to 40 people waiting, endlessly, to see a doctor; minor symptoms that were left untreated develop into chronic disease; and people with mental illness who are homeless, unable to pay for the care they need and jaded by past interactions with the health care system. People in these communities do not trust that system. I want to be a doctor who can change that, and earn their trust.

Growing up, I never saw a doctor who looked like me. Now I am one of 24 future physicians in this year’s AMSNY program who want to give back to our communities. I am immensely grateful to our state representatives and Gov. Kathy Hochul for making that possible.

In the past two years, the state’s investment in Diversity in Medicine programs has tripled. This funding must continue, and even increase, so more people like us can become doctors and leaders of change for our communities.

Shakia Miller is scheduled to complete the AMSNY Diversity in Medicine program in May.

It’s me, not ChatGPT . . . at least I think so

Why should I work this week?

No one works anymore, or if they show up, they bring attitude or the three stages of incompetence: Don’t care, don’t want to be here, don’t notice you standing there at my counter. (I don’t mean you, of course. Herald readers are all diligent, responsible people.)

RANDI KREISS

Anyway, as an experiment with AI, and a way not to work, I thought I’d ask ChatGPT to write my column. What I specifically asked for in the query was: Write a 750-word column in the style of Randi Kreiss. It took about two seconds, and I got a piece about the idea of detoxing ourselves from our exposure to screens and devices. Not an original idea, not a bad idea, but between you and me, I hope it wasn’t an example of how I usually write, because it was sooooo booooring.

This was the last paragraph of the pseudo-Randi column, written by ChatGPT:

“So let us embrace the digital detox not as a fleeting trend, but as a timeless

reminder of our innate capacity for connection, creativity, and contemplation. Let us reclaim our time, our attention, and our humanity from the clutches of the digital realm and rediscover the beauty of life beyond the screen.”

I mean, there’s nothing wrong with the writing; it’s just so blah-blah-blah. All of which leaves me with no other choice than to abandon AI and deploy my own skills, which are both modest and flawed.

WIf I were going to write about the toxicity of screens and devices — and I am, now that ChatGPT gave me the idea — I would connect it specifically to our current political madness. We are bombarded 24/7 by repetitious news about the threat to our democracy by former President Donald Trump and his acolytes. Is there really anything else to talk about that carries the gravitas of a looming democracy-destroying, unhinged presidency? The Orange Man lurks behind us just as he stalked Hillary in the 2016 debates.

Other news outlets beat the drum about President Biden’s age and oratorical misadventures.

hen I asked it to write a column like I might write, it let me down.

For a long time, I tried to see the issues from all sides. I figured that I have more in common with Trump supporters than the issues that divide us. I figured that when he fully revealed himself as an authoritarian wannabe, folks would recoil, seeing the threat to our freedoms. I wanted to stand in their shoes and see what they saw, but Trump’s singular determination to take down our democracy blots out the sun. Legitimate disagreements over immigration, the economy and taxes pale compared to his promise to dismantle the pillars of government and build camps for people he determines are unwelcome or undesirable.

There isn’t a legitimate other side when the other side is a dictatorship.

and that means re-electing Biden. Both men are too old for the job, but Biden and his team will keep faith with the American public. The country is sound and well-connected to our friends around the world. Biden’s experience has brought us through these difficult years. The alternative is more than a flirtation with authoritarianism and institutionalized racism. Young people do not realize how quickly bellicose talk can turn into tanks rumbling down our streets.

In many homes, the TV is on. It’s always there, in the background, too loud, too repetitive, too insignificant. We all know that news shows ran out of news long ago. Most of the time they reprocess the meat of a story until it comes out like sausage, link after link, hour after hour. Is it news when a knownothing anchor interviews a reporter who once interviewed a spokesperson who represents an insignificant staff member of a mid-level politician?

He is meaner than the last time around. His alleged crimes have earned him dozens of felony indictments. We can’t stand watching the coverage, and we can’t stop.

Trump must be removed from political life, and we must find ourselves again. That means removing ourselves from obsessional newscasts. Watch the candidates’ speeches for yourself, without the filters, and believe what you see. Look and listen to who Trump is. Listen to Biden.

We must retire the would-be dictator,

We can improve our lives by disconnecting from our devices. Voting is easy and analog. The conflation of politics and screens is wearing us down. Let the candidates speak for themselves.

Thanks, ChatGPT, for priming the pump. I just needed to say it in my own words.

Copyright 2024 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

SHAKIA MILLER

HeraLd editoriaL

Celebrating L.I.’s rich Irish-American heritage s

t. Patrick’s Day has come and gone, but there is much more to this annual holiday than just the vibrant green decorations, festive parades, pints of beer and corned beef. It is an opportunity to celebrate the rich tapestry of Irish-American heritage, deeply woven into the fabric of Long Island and its communities.

The journey of Irish immigrants and their descendants is a narrative of resilience, contribution and cultural vibrancy. The Long Island portion of that history stretches back centuries, marked by waves of newcomers who left their homes in search of the American dream.

The potato famine in the 19th century led nearly 800,000 Irish immigrants to travel across the Atlantic in search of new opportunities in the United States. Many entered through Ellis Island before finding their way to Long Island, drawn by construction and agricultural work.

Many of those new pioneers faced adversity and discrimination because of their heritage, their religion, and their immigrant status. Still, they persevered, carving out a place for themselves in their adopted homeland.

Legal immigrants make our economy stronger

To the Editor:

The letter from Joseph Varon, “Immigrants make our economy stronger,” in the March 7-13 issue, asks us to “stop the anti-immigrant rhetoric.” What anti-immigrant rhetoric?

Americans, personally, and the United States, officially, are very immigrant-friendly. For many years, the U.S. has admitted hundreds of thousands of immigrants each year, issuing them green cards, which grant permanent residency, and if you want, you can become a citizen in five years, as long as you don’t commit a felony — sooner if you marry an American citizen or serve in the military. That’s an admission policy unmatched by any other country.

Members of my family and my wife’s family have married immigrants. A legitimate case can be made for raising the limit on immigrants due to America’s decreasing birth rate.

I hear no complaints about legal immigrants — only about the illegals and the unvetted, let in, regardless of the costs of housing them and the brutality of the crimes committed, by an administration bent on countering the population loss of blue states caused by their irresponsible fiscal policies. It’s an exodus that would otherwise cause these states a loss of congressional seats and Electoral Col-

Their legacy and contributions to Long Island’s growth and development span many generations, shaping the landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the region’s cultural identity. From building the infrastructure that connects communities, to establishing businesses and institutions, Irish-Americans played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of Long Island.

St. Patrick’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of this heritage. It is a day when people come together to honor their Irish roots and celebrate the legacy of those who came before them. The festivities are a testament to the enduring spirit, camaraderie and pride that characterizes the community. Parades wind through the streets. Music fills the air. And traditional Irish fare delights the senses, adding to an atmosphere of joy and unity.

Beyond the revelry of the holiday, Long Island is home to a vibrant tapestry of Irish-American cultural organizations, events and businesses that enrich the community year-round.

The Ancient Order of Hibernians — the oldest Irish-Catholic fraternal organization in the country — boasts numerous divisions across Nassau and Suffolk

counties. Long Island is also home to several Irish dance troupes and Gaelic sports clubs. They preserve tradition, and foster a sense of belonging among generations of Irish-Americans, providing avenues for cultural expression, education and camaraderie, and ensuring that the legacy of Irish heritage continues to thrive.

Local businesses also play a crucial role in promoting Irish-American culture, offering cuisine, crafts and products that pay homage to the traditions of the Emerald Isle.

Whether it’s a cozy pub serving up a hearty Irish stew or a shop brimming with Celtic jewelry and knick-knacks, these establishments serve as ambassadors of Irish culture, inviting many to experience all that Ireland has to offer without ever leaving home.

Although this year’s St. Patrick’s Day is now behind us, let us not forget all of the contributions and traditions of Irish-Americans that resonate throughout our communities every day.

So, a toast to all of the pioneers who paved the way. The traditions that bind us together. And the legacy of IrishAmerican heritage on Long Island. Sláinte!

lege votes.

The “billions” in taxes quoted, unfortunately, are buying more people in to failing systems that will pay out even more billions than are paid in. I fail to see a hero in one who puts in a dollar and takes out two.

DENNIS J. DUFFy

Lynbrook

And the illegal ones are costing us dearly

To the Editor:

Joseph Varon’s letter sang the praises of immigration and why we shouldn’t look down on it. yes, the greatest country

It’s time we find common ground on ‘Raise the Age’

Long Island has become the center of new York’s — and the nation’s — political conversation. In recent elections, state and local policies have had an enormous influence on nassau and Suffolk County campaigns that ultimately played a decisive role in determining control of Congress.

CHarLes LaVINe

but while politicians and party operatives struggle to find a political advantage in laws passed by Albany or our County legislature, real people affected by these policies are waiting for those of us in office to find common ground on issues that should bring us together, not divide us.

look at the Raise the Age law, for example. In 2017, I was proud to join both my Democratic and Republican colleagues in support of ending new York’s shameful status as one of the last two states to prosecute all 16- and 17-year-olds as adults. Today, thanks to the law, a large majority of young people’s cases move through family court, where the goal is rehabilitation through effective intervention rather than criminalization.

Raise the Age is a crucial component in building a healthy, sustainable future. It allows young people to get the services they need to get their lives on track. It also allows them to access quality jobs and fully contribute to our society without convictions from when they were teenagers holding them back.

sContrary to false claims labeling family court a “slap on the wrist,” young people may face mandatory programs, supervision by law enforcement, pretrial detention, and placement in residential facilities. but when the system is working well, they are connected with a range of community-based services and resources, which aim to address the underlying factors that led them to commit crimes. And they can use of those services — and the opportunities they provide — without the burden of an adult criminal record.

reduction in shootings with injuries from 2021 to 2023.

As a former public defender, I know firsthand how crucial services like SnUG are to the health and safety of our young people and their communities. by targeting the crux of the issue, they reduce recidivism and help struggling youth become wellfunctioning, productive members of their communities.

etting young offenders straight without burdening them with adult criminal records.

Since Raise the Age took effect, thousands of young people who would otherwise have spent months or even years of their childhood in adult jails and prisons have had access to services designed to help them improve their lives and avoid future interactions with the criminal legal system. For some, this is the first time they have had trusted adults whom they can rely on and turn to for guidance.

vices, serious crimes perpetrated by those under 18 decreased by 12 percent in nassau County and a stunning 57 percent in Suffolk. These statistics demonstrate the efficacy of, and critical need for, community-based programming to make our neighborhoods safer.

Despite Raise the Age’s success, its implementation has received a mere fraction of the funding state leaders promised. It’s been reported that as of 2022, only $270 million of the $800 million that was appropriated for it had been invested in community-based programs and services for young people around the state. Think of how much more successful Raise the Age could be if the state adequately funded it, and community-based organizations and service providers could apply for and receive that funding directly.

one such service is the SnUG Street outreach program, which uses a public health model to reduce gun violence throughout the state by mediating conflict, mentoring youth, and working with local partners to make our streets safer. The 13 communities that are home to the program — including Hempstead — reported a 36 percent

Letters

in the world, the USA, became that because so many of its citizens are immigrants, or children of immigrants. They came mostly from civilized countries, and came legally.

With the Industrial Revolution booming, America needed skilled and unskilled workers, and they came in droves. Most were checked over at Ellis Island, and all were required to become citizens. Yes, we quarantined the sick for a couple of weeks, in not the most luxurious accommodations, but it worked.

We do not need the number and the caliber of those coming across our borders in illegal fashion. We don’t need the crime, and we don’t need what they turn our cities into. We can’t afford to clean up the world, and we aren’t all in desperate need of gardeners, but rather skilled welders, carpenters, etc.

Having these illegal immigrants among us costs us money, and destroys our school systems. They don’t even try to blend in — they dress, act and expect us to learn their culture. Sometimes the raw truth hurts, but they are the only ones benefiting from their crime of crossing our borders illegally.

Politicians? Guilty.

RobERT CASAlE Glen Head

We thought Randi was gone

To the Editor:

My wife and I, loyal readers of the Merrick Herald, are among Randi Kreiss’s biggest fans, and we were thoroughly dismayed when we thought she disappeared last year. but a letter to the editor in the Feb. 29-March 6 issue, “At your library, borrow a book — or a telescope,” which mentioned her column on libraries, made us realize that Randi is still here!

We have now read all her monthlies since she started them in September. What an ordeal she and her husband have been through. We wish both of them all the best, and are beyond delighted that Randi’s observations on our society, her humor, her book recommendations, and her overall words of wisdom can continue to be part of our lives.

KARIn SPEnCER & MARISA HoHEb Merrick

In recent years, I’ve been disappointed by how many of my misinformed colleagues have attempted to blame Raise the Age for an increase in crime on long Island, especially when the data say otherwise. This should be a law that unites us.

From the law’s implementation in 2018 through 2022, according to the state Division of Criminal Justice Ser-

Framework by Tim Baker

It’s high time that we rise to the occasion and demand more for the most vulnerable members of our communities, and that starts by calling on Albany to invest in our youth by fully funding Raise the Age and supporting evidence-based strategies that create pathways for our young people’s rehabilitation, growth and opportunity. let’s not let fear-mongering and political mudslinging talk us out of public policy that is proven to work — and that lifts all of us up.

An artisan’s work at Matinecock Lodge — Oyster Bay

Charles Lavine represents the 13th Assembly District.