East Meadow Herald 05-09-2024

New

life ‘spruces’

up Merrick Avenue

The Council of East Meadow Community Organizations welcomed in the season of spring with new plantings, 41 to be exact, that bring life, color and nature back to Merrick Avenue.

Thanks to the efforts of CEMCO President Joe Parisi, who’s long advocated for new trees to be planted, after 14 that died were removed, the organization that represents East Meadow and Salisbury celebrated the addition of new trees, planted in beds along the highly trafficked roadway.

Above, CEMCO’s board members with Nassau County Legislator Tom McKevitt, who aided in the organizations efforts. Right, one of the new trees, planted on Merrick Avenue. Story, more photos, Page 4.

Marathon is all about fitness, fun and community

By JoRDAN VALLoNE jvallone@liherald.com

At the top of the list of events the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums looks forward to each year is the Jovia Long Island Marathon. The weekend of running, which unofficially kicks off the summer season in Eisenhower Park, is packed with live entertainment, a food truck festival and, of course, several races that bring together the running community and droves of supporters.

The races began on May 3, with the Friday Night Lights 5K Fun Run, followed by a 10K and a 1K Kids Run on Saturday. The half marathon and marathon were held on Sunday morning. Live music, local food vendors and other family-oriented entertainment were sprinkled throughout the races.

At a news conference before the festivities last week, County Executive Bruce Blakeman, standing at the races’ finish line with partners in govern -

ment, as well as some of the event sponsors, said that the marathon was just the beginning of a slew of events coming to Nassau County this summer. Blakeman mentioned the International Cricket Committee’s T20 World Cup, slated to take place in Eisenhower Park in early June, and several concerts scheduled throughout the summer.

“Nassau County is committed to doing major events, whether it be cultural, athletic, or just entertainment,” he said. “But as we do each and every year, to kick off our spring and summer celebration here in Nassau County, especially on our 125th anniversary, it’s always the Long Island Marathon.”

The 26.2-mile race began and ended near Eisenhower Park’s Field 5. Runners headed west, leaving the park on Merrick Avenue, and then turned toward Garden City on Charles Lindbergh Boulevard. The race looped back toward East Meadow, and runners then headed

Continued on page 10

The Herald’s marathon coverage features a firsthand account by Senior Reporter Parker Schug, also on Page 10. $1.00

Jordan Vallone/Herald

Courtesy Council of East Meadow Community Organization

1,661 clothing items collected for veterans

From March 1 through April 1, State Senator Steve Rhoads and Military Blue Star Mothers NY 14, a local organization dedicated to supporting and honoring our military service members and their families, held a professional clothing drive to support young veterans in New York looking to start their professional careers.

1,661 items were collected to help these veterans succeed in their job interviews and professional settings. Rhoads and Military Blue Star Mothers NY 14 are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of these young veterans and helping them transition into civilian life with confidence and success.

“When we began this drive, I said we were going to make it a ‘March to remember our military heroes’ and I am proud to say we did just that. It was heartwarming to see the support and appreciation from residents in my district — rich with a history of military service men and women — truly value and appreciate the sacrifices made by our heroes.,” Rhoads said. “Thank you to everyone in the community who donated clothing for our professional clothing drive; your generosity underscores the fact that our veterans deserve all the recognition and support we can give, not only on Veterans Day or Memorial Day, but each and every day.”

“I am truly blown away by the generosity of Senator Rhoads and his constituents for veterans in need,” Andrea Nordquist of Military Blue Star Mothers said. “We col-

The Military Blue Star Mothers, who have sons and daughters serving in the military, understand the importance of providing resources and support to those who have bravely served our country.

lected so many wonderful items that we are going to be able to bring to them and help change their lives. I cannot thank Senator Rhoads, his staff, and all the people in his district and everyone who helped to support this most worthy cause.”

–Mason Lauron

Photos courtesy Office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads State Senator Steve Rhoads and Andrea Nordquist, president of Military Blue Star Mothers NY 14, with overflowing boxes and bags of professional clothing for veterans.

Recognizing Autism Awareness Month

Members of the East Meadow School District decorated puzzle pieces, infinity symbols and wore different shades of blue in recognition of Autism Awareness Month last month.

Autism Awareness Month, observed annually in April, is a time dedicated to raising awareness and promoting acceptance, understanding, and inclusion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Throughout the month, various organizations, communities, and individuals worldwide engage in activities and initiatives aimed at increasing understanding of autism and advocating for the rights and needs of individuals on the spectrum.

Schools often participate in Autism Awareness Month by organizing awarenessraising activities, incorporating lessons on autism into their curriculum, promoting acceptance and understanding among students, and implementing inclusive practices to support students with autism in the classroom.

For East Meadow’s activity, the puzzle pattern reflects the complexity of the autism spectrum while the rainbow-colored infinity symbol indicates that neurological differences are a natural occurrence. Blue is associated with a calm feeling and represents acceptance for people on the spectrum.

Students in the district continue to recognize Autism Awareness Month through a variety of activities in April.

–Jordan Vallone

Photos courtesy East Meadow Union Free School District Parkway Elementary School students crafted colorful posters in recognition of Autism Awareness Month.

Students and teachers at Bowling Green Elementary School and wore different shades of blue in recognition of Autism Awareness Month on April 5.

Meadowbrook Elementary School’s students and staff observed Autism Awareness Month.

‘Replacement’ trees planted on Merrick Ave.

For years, the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations has been advocating and working hard to get several replacement trees back into the ground on Merrick Avenue, after 14 that had died were removed. The stretch of Merrick Avenue starts just south of the East Meadow baseball and softball fields, and continues past Sunrise of East Meadow. In total, 41 new tress were planted.

Joe Parisi, president of CEMCO, worked with Nassau County Legislator Tom McKevitt to make the plantings possible. After years of advocacy on the subject, seeing the tress finally get into the ground was rewarding, a win for the community and the environment.

“I am pleased to report that the replacement tress have been planted,” Parisi wrote on CEMCO’s Facebook. “I want to thank Tom for his advocacy and persistence in having the replacement trees planted.”

The trees planted are Slender Sweet Gum trees, which are a great addition because they tend to grow tall and narrow. The branches don’t spread out significantly, Parisi explained.

20 trees replaced the initial 14 that died, and a second phase of the initiative saw 21 additional trees planted south of the baseball complex.

In recognition of CEMCO’s partnership with Nassau County, board members met with McKevitt outside of Sunrise of East Meadow on April 29 to recognize his efforts in securing the new curbside tress on Merrick Avenue.

“This provides a positive beautification and environmental impact for East Meadow,” Parisi said. “I look forward to working with Tom on future beautification projects.”

–Jordan Vallone

Children and Grandchildren

Asset Protection Trust should be used to protect the asset.

While the deed with a life estate will be less costly to the client, in most cases it offers significant disadvantages when compared to the trust. First, if the home is sold prior to the death of the Medicaid recipient, the life estate value of the home will be required to be paid towards their care. If the house is rented, the net rents are payable to the nursing facility since they belong to the life tenant. Finally, the client loses a significant portion of their capital gains tax exclusion for the sale of their primary residence as they will only be entitled to a pro rata share based on the value of the life estate to the home as a whole.

All of the foregoing may lead to a situation where the family finds they must maintain a vacant home for many years. Conversely, a properly drafted MAPT preserves the full capital gains tax exclusion on the sale of the

primary residence and the home may be sold by the trust without obligation to make payment of any of the principal towards the client’s care, assuming we have passed the look-back period for facility care of five years.

It should be noted here that both the life estate and the MAPT will preserve the steppedup basis in the property provided it is sold after the death of the parent who was the owner or grantor. Upon the death of the parent, the basis for calculating the capital gains tax is stepped up from what the parent paid, plus any improvements, to what it was worth on the parent’s date of death. This effectively eliminates payment of capital gains taxes on the sale of appreciated property, such as the home, after the parent dies.

There are instances where the life estate deed makes sense however. When the asset is a country house or a beach house that is intended to stay in the family for the next generation, then the life estate deed works perfectly well and may effect a significant savings to the family seeking to protect the asset.

Jordan Vallone/Herald

Board members of the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations met with Nassau County Legislator Tom McKevitt to celebrate the planting of 41 new trees along Merrick Avenue on April 29.

Mobile hours, author visits, come to library

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

As the East Meadow Public Library looks ahead to the summer months, a slew of informative and fun events are set through the end of the month, and into June.

County Legislator Tom McKevitt is back at the East Meadow Public Library on May 15 for a scam prevention seminar. Attendees will learn about different types of scams, how to recognize them and prevent themselves from becoming victims. If people do fall subject to a scam, they will learn how they can be reimbursed of money lost due to fraud.

The event will take place at 7 p.m. No pre-registration is required to attend.

May 18 will be a packed day at the library. State Senator Steve Rhoads will hold his mobile office hours in person. Rhoads is eager to meet with constituents, and invites all members of the community to join him during the session, slated from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Residents in the 5th State Senate District will meet one-on-one with Rhoads, and discuss issues and concerns that impact the East Meadow community. To make an appointment, call his district office at (516) 882-0630. Appointments are required, but walk-ins will be welcomed if time permits.

There’s a lot planned for the end of May at the East Meadow Public Library, including State Sen. Steve

with residents in his district.

“I’m looking forward to meeting with constituents once again during my Mobile Office Hours series and welcome the chance to speak with neighbors all across the district,” Rhoads said. At 10 a.m., there will also be a defensive driving course. Drivers who regis-

Questions we’ve been asked...

Is there a fee charged for making funeral pre-arrangements?

There is absolutely no fee or other charge in New York State when you make “pre-arrangements”. Moreover when you pre-fund those arrangements through the Pre-Plan Trust there is no additional expense in establishing the trust account. A trust account that remains under your control and your funds are FDIC insured.

No commission, no set-up fees, no extra expenses. Just accurate, helpful information, and a plan that conforms to all New York State Regulations and SSI-Medicaid regulations as well. An enhanced rate of interest on the Pre-Plan Trust enables us to guarantee the funeral home costs when a complete funeral is arranged and paid for.

If you would like to discuss these issues, call us and we’ll arrange to have one of our licensed funeral director professionals meet with you and answer your questions.

You’ll receive clear answers, an itemized list of the costs, and some peace of mind.

Leo F. KEARNS, Inc. Funeral Directors

Thomas L. Kearns, Patrick J. Kearns, Paul C. Kearns-Stanley (516) 794-0500 or 1-800-640-9500 (NYS)

Department of Motor certification. All registration forms and checks are sent directly to the course instructor. For more in the class, call (516) 579-2570.

Later in the afternoon, Colm Tóibín, an award-winning author from Ireland, who’s work “Brooklyn,” was critically acclaimed, will be at the library at 2 p.m., in celebration of his newest novel, “Long Island.”

The new release is a continuation of the story in “Brooklyn,” and has been described as spectacularly moving and intense. Pre-registration is required, and can done so at EastMeadow.info.

The last Sunday concert of the spring will take place on May 19 at 2 p.m., featuring Buddy Merdian. According to the library, “for over 46 years, Buddy Merriam has been performing his bluegrass and mandolin music throughout the northeast.”

He’s released his own music, as well as two books, about his original mandolin compositions.

ter may be eligible for insurance reductions after they complete the class. All drivers are eligible regardless of violations or their accident records.

There is a fee involved, and it includes all course materials and the

May 19 marks the end of the library’s winter hours on the weekends. Moving forward, the library will be open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and closed on Sunday. At EastMeadow.info, patrons can view the library’s informative newsletter that details events happening in the current month and beyond.

The library is at 1886 Front Street in East Meadow.

Courtesy Office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads

Rhoads’ Mobile Office Hours on May 18. Above, Rhoads meets

Thomas L. Kearns

CAITLIN HAGGERTY

South Side Senior Lacrosse

AN ALL-COUNTY award winner in 2023 and AllLong Island games MVP, Haggerty reached a milestone April 27 in the Cyclones’ 16-5 victory over Calhoun. She scored five goals, including the 100th of her high school career. On the season, the University of Vermont-bound attack has scored 28 goals and assisted on 27 others as South Side split its first 12 games. She also plays a key role on draw controls and ranks amont the team leaders with 25.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, May 9

Girls Lacrosse: Freeport at Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

Flag Fooball: Herricks at V.S. Ditrict 5 p.m.

Flag Football: Bellmore-Merrick at Westbury 5 p.m.

Baseball: Sewanhaka at Malverne 5 p.m.

Softball: V.S. North at Garden City 5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: V.S.District at Uniondale 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Lynbrook at Plainedge 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Oyster Bay at East Meadow 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Hicksville at Kennedy 5 p.m.

Flag Football: Long Beach at Port Washington 7 p.m.

Flag Football: Division at Lynbrook 7 p.m.

Friday, May 10

Softball: Sewanhaka at V.S. North 4:30 p.m.

Flag Football: MacArthur at Plainview 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: North Shore at Seaford 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Malv/East Rock 5 p.m.

Softball: Plainview at Calhoun 5 p.m.

Softball: New Hyde Park at South Side 5:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Long Beach at Port Washington 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 11

Girls Lacrosse: Lynbrook at Wantagh

Softball: Clarke at East Meadow

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

East Meadow battles for seeding

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Two teams headed to the Nassau Class AAA baseball playoffs but jockeying for seeding took turns beating each other in the first two games of last week’s series before East Meadow got the best of Baldwin in the May 2 finale.

Senior Christian Brennan allowed two runs and scattered five hits over five innings to earn the win on the mound for the Jets, who broke open a close game with three runs in the top of the sixth inning of a 6-2 road victory.

Sophomore leadoff hitter Trevor Smith went 3-for-4 and scored three runs and junior Owen Smith and freshman Dom Longardino both had a pair of RBIs as East Meadow improved to 5-8-1 and secured any possible tiebreaker over the Bruins, who enter the final week of the regular season at 6-7-1.

“This was the cleanest of the three games this week,” East Meadow coach Vin Mascia said. “We played a pretty good game all around. Christian gave us five good innings and we hit the ball well one through nine.”

Baldwin trailed 3-0 after Longardino’s two-run double in the first and senior shortstop Kevin Canto’s run-scoring single in the second, but cut the margin to one with a pair of runs in the home half of the fourth. Senior catcher Mario Garcia singled with one out and sophomore third baseman Ryan Healey followed with a double. Sophomore Jacob Lopez drilled a two-run single to make it 3-2, although it was a close as the Bruins could get.

“We’re either up or down, there’s no in between for us,” Baldwin coach Frank Esposito said. “We played a nice game at East Meadow a few days ago [April 30] and won it in the seventh inning. Today we couldn’t get the bats going with any consistency.”

East Meadow, which won the series opener April 29, 15-4, with junior catcher Joe Lanza (four) and Longardino combining for seven RBIs to back the strong pitching of junior Alec Coelho, put an exclamation point on the finale with three runs in the top of the sixth. Senior Mason

Tony Bellissimo/Herald Trevor Smith had three hits and scored three times for the Jets in their 6-2 victory over Baldwin in last week’s series finale May 2.

Martinez pitched the last two innings to earn the save.

“We’re going to be underdogs no matter who we meet in the first round of the playoffs,” Mascia said. “But the guys know if we pitch and play defense and get some timely hits, there’s no reason why we can’t compete with anyone.”

The road team won all three games in the series. The Bruins took the middle game, 6-3, with senior Michael Jazylo

starring on the mound and at the plate. He was the winning pitcher and provided the difference with a tiebreaking basesclearing double in the top of the seventh. The Jets, currently in the No. 8 seed spot, close the regular season with a three-game set against winless Valley Stream Central. If they sweep the Eagles, Baldwin would be forced to do the same against Plainview to hold onto the No. 6 seed.

Scholarships to Arts Academy, thanks to Billy Joel

Summer arts program perfect for young artists

By NICOLE FORMISANO nformisano@liherald.com

Students who have a passion for music have an opportunity to take their skills to the next level this summer at Boces’ Long Island High School for the Arts, or LIHSA for short. On top of that, students whose applications really impress may even get in for free.

T“Our summer program works to give students who are not sure if they want to attend the LIHSA program, or who are interested in attending the program down the line, an overview of what it’s like to be here at LIHSA,” said Linday Rogan, the assistant principal of LIHSA. “It gives them a really nice overview of everything that we offer.”

raining students to be the next generation of young artists is something that not only myself ... is very passionate about.

LINdSAy ROg AN assistant principal, LIHSA

The fourweek program, called the Summer Arts Academy, is at LIHSA campus in Syosset. It’s open to students in grades 5 through 12 from anywhere in Nassau or Suffolk.

The Summer Arts Academy offers hands-on education in artistic fields that a student would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Students can learn how to construct sets, record and produce music using professional software and audio equipment, perform Broadway choreography, audition for a stage production and more.

“We’re the only performing arts high school on Long Island,” Rogan said. “We partner with industry professionals in our performing arts departments ranging from NYU and Verbatim Theatre Lab to Paul Taylor at the American Ballet Theatre; we are able to offer world class industry professionals that come to LIHSA to work in partnership with our faculty; our faculty members are also known industry professionals that are working in their field. And that really helps to give students the most state of the art education in their chosen art field.”

Even better, there are 15 full scholarships available for music students through funding from the Joel Foundation — yes, that Joel. When LIHSA was in danger of closing eight years ago, Billy Joel was actually the one who stepped in and donated millions to protect the only performing arts high school on Long Island.

Now his foundation is offering full $2,800 scholarships to 15 students who demonstrate high levels of skill and artistry, which is evaluated in students’ applications and audition videos. The

scholarship is available to students from Nassau who are currently in grades 8-11, and have prior experience with music.

But the technical education isn’t the only reason to study the arts at LIHSA.

“Training students to be the next generation of young artists is something that not only myself, but the entire faculty of Long Island High School for the Arts, is very passionate about,” Rogan said.

“Beyond the career opportunities — students who study art are really good humans. They learn empathy, they learn strong communication skills, and they learn to reflect on their own experiences. And all of that is really important.”

An education in the arts teaches young people communication, how to reflect, how to provide and accept feedback, and accountability to other artists on your team, Rogan said — skills that every young person needs to develop for their careers.

And what did we all do when the world shut down two years ago? We turned to art, Rogan said. We listened to music, we watched television, we read books. Art continues to be vital, and the benefits of an arts education cannot be understated.

“Art is something that preserves history,” Rogan said. “Art is something that can bring the most subtle things in life to light, and art is the way that we measure our humanity.”

The program runs from June 27 to July 26, on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Scholarships are awarded based on merit. Students who are interested may submit an audition video and application by May 10. For details on how to apply and audition, students can visit tinyurl. com/BOCESScholarship2024.

Courtesy Nassau Boces

Winners of the Joel Foundation’s Summer Arts Academy scholarship, like these students from last year, are chosen based on their musical skill, artistry and expression.

First senior health expo of 2024 a hit

By Alexa Anderwkavich

The Rockville Centre Recreation Center welcomed eager attendees for the Herald’s Senior Health & Beyond Expo, produced by RichnerLive, on April 25. It was the first in a series of expos for 2024.

The expo brings together diverse businesses and innovative services to share their products and refined knowledge with attendees.

“This event is highly regarded within our community, receiving positive feedback from both attendees and vendors,” said Amy Amato, executive director of Herald Community Media and RichnerLive. “It offers valuable opportunities for companies and guests to learn, engage and access essential screenings, benefitting everyone involved.”

More than 50 vendors filled the gymnasium, offering insights into health, wellness and personal care. They provided guidance on enhancing lifestyle through new products and programs, as well as advice on senior living arrangements, financial security, and more.

Guests received hearing screenings from Mid Island Audiology, as well as health screenings from Mount Sinai South Nassau, which included free vaccines, blood pressure testing, body mass index and diabetes risk management screenings.

Before noon, guests sat down for a panel discussion to hear experts discuss myriad topics, including consumer assistance programs and preparing for summer, as well as PACE — Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly — advanced-care directives, and Medicaid managed long-term care.

Guests also experienced a segment from Mae Caime, chief executive of aMAEzing Midlife & Beyond, called “Mindset, Movement and Magic” — which got the crowd stretching and in motion.

“The expo was fun, the Herald team is amazing,” Caime said. “The energy is great, and I love the spirit.”

Attendees received a goody bag courtesy of Grandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and Beach Terrace Care Center filled with the specialevent section, keepsakes and vital takehome information.

At the end, the first 150 attendees also received a free to-go lunch courtesy of Pantano’s, while everyone was eligible for the raffles.

The expo was made possible thanks to Silver Sponsors New York Department of Public Service, Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Centerlight Healthcare PACE and Long Beach Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (Cassena Care).

Guests and vendors are looking forward to the next expo happening Thursday, June 27 between 10 a.m. and noon at Congregation Ohav Sholom, 145 S. Merrick Ave., in Merrick.

Visit JuneExpo.eventbrite.com to register, or RichnerLive.com for more details.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

The crowd enjoys the Mindset, Movement & Magic segment from Mae Caime, chief executive of aMAEzing Midlife & Beyond.

Silver sponsor Centerlight Healthcare PACE’s exhibitor table.

Silver sponsor, New York Department of Public Service, Jill Wasser, center, and her team.

One of the expo’s gift bag sponsors, Gandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, at their table.

Silver sponsor Long Beach Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Cassena Care).

The Parker Jewish team participated in a panel discussion.

EAST MEADOW FIRE DEPARTMENT

Polo Lane house fire quickly extinguished

The East Meadow Fire Department responded to a fire on May 5 on Polo Lane. Radios sounded the alarm, announcing a house fire, around 12:13 p.m.

Chief of Department James Walsh, and Assistant Chiefs Michael Wood and Jeffrey Rosenthal were on route to the scene within one minute of the call.

At 12:17, Walsh arrived to the home, which had smoke pouring from its eaves. He quickly radioed a Signal 10 — Working in Fire — while establishing East Meadow’s Incident Command Post, as the sound of sirens from several East Meadow companies drew closer.

Just 5 minutes after the initial alert, first due Engine 614 arrived on the scene, dropped its hose lines to the home, and connected to the fire hydrant across the street.

Engine 614 was immediately followed up by Ladder 619, as the Engine 611, Engine 612, Ladder, 617, Engine 613, and Heavy Rescue 616 followed in quick succession.

With the help of all incoming fire companies, the firefighters moved in to put out the fire.

Within 20 minutes of arrival the fire had been completely extinguished, and firefighters continued to check for any hidden pockets of fire.

Fire damage was held to a small area of the first and second floors, with water and smoke damage suffered on the first floor.

An emergency medical station was established by crews of Rescue 5 and the emergency medical services squad manned ambulances 615, 6144, and 6115.

In all, 76 East Meadow volunteers responded to the fire, with additional mutual aid resources from the Westbury Fire Department at the scene.

The Hicksville Fire Department, North Bellmore Fire Department, and North Merrick Fire Department, reported to the empty East Meadow fire stations for standby in the event of any other emergencies.

The cause of the fire was placed into the hands of the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office.

The quick and massive response from East Meadow volunteers afforded chiefs, and members the opportunity to gain quick control on the fire.

There were no injuries.

–John J. O’Brien Sr.

Firefighters in the East Meadow Fire Department extinguished a house fire on Polo Lane on May 5.

Courtesy Jay Zinger

Runners, fans unite for Long Island races

north and east through Salisbury, around the perimeter of Eisenhower Park, before re-entering the park near Carmen Avenue. The half marathon followed a similar path, but excluded some parts of the race that ran through the park. As runners crossed the finish line, they were cheered on by grandstands full of supporters.

A total of 601 runners entered the marathon, and 1,431 ran the half marathon. Ryan Clifford, 27 of Westbury, was the overall winner of the full marathon, finishing in 2 hour, 31 minutes, 4 seconds. He was followed by George Werner, 21, of Sayville, and Scott Seymour, 33, of Brooklyn.

Cristin Delaney-Guille, 43, of Long Beach, was the fastest female finisher, in 3:03:13. Natalie Lutz, 42, of Delaware, and Rachel Wentnick, 25, of Massachusetts, were second and third.

The Hospital for Special Surgery for Long Island and Queens, one of the race sponsors, operated a recovery zone, offering mats, muscle rollers and other items to fatigued runners. The hospital has a location not far from the park, on Earle Ovington Boulevard in Uniondale.

The event has evolved over the years, County Legislator Tom McKevitt said, and the three-day festival is an entertainment highlight on the county calendar. Everything coming to the park this summer, he said — including the cricket tournament, which will be watched around the world — adds to the park’s value not only to East Meadow, but to the county as a whole.

“Eisenhower Park is more beautiful than it ever has been,” McKevitt said. “We’re improving it, getting it better all the time.”

Peter Purpura, vice president of business develop-

ment for Jovia Financial Credit Union, the marathon’s title sponsor for the past six years, said the camaraderie of runners on race weekend is what makes the event so special.

By Parker Schug

Running has always served as much more of mental outlet for me than a physical one.

It’s what drew me to run the Long Island Half-Marathon last weekend that started and ended at Eisenhower Park, earning a personal record of two hours and eight minutes. But my favorite part of the entire race? It was the process to get there.

I started running — seriously — in high school, completing my first half-marathon with my mom for my 16th birthday — a day we share.

My mom and dad ran as I was growing up, and I saw it as a unique way to push myself. I played lots of sports, so I never really needed the exercise. But, at the time, it was something more for my mom and I do to together.

Come 2022, I had just returned from a semester in Spain and was back at college feeling lost in a place where I had always felt most myself.

I was studying journalism. I had some great friends. I was living in my first apartment. Yet, despite all of the great things, I was feeling unsatisfied.

“In all of these races, you have family and friends supporting their loved ones,” Purpura said. “But at the same time, we have people throughout the course with motivational signs, cheering on completion. You’ve got community groups handing out food and water. And you’ve got hundreds of volunteers at the finish line, working to handle a number of needs for runners. It’s really a great example of community, and people helping people.

“Jovia is committed to supporting our community,” he added. “We’re an organization of inclusion, and that’s what Long Island Marathon weekend is all about.”

REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK

Living life ... one run at a time

The party scene was less appealing, My best friend was studying in Los Angeles, many miles away. And I was struggling with living far from my sick grandfather who was one of the closest people to me.

So, I texted my friend, Jack, and said, “Let’s train for a half marathon.”

This training became my life.

My friends knew on Sundays I’d go out for a long run. My mornings got earlier as I wanted to get in some miles before class. And some of the times I smiled most was when I’d pass Greta — who lived two doors down from me — out for her morning run, as well.

Then graduation came. I packed up my stuff, and back to Long Island I went — the one place I had hoped to avoid — in a pursuit to keep my horizon wide. Job offers a plane ride away came in, and something in my gut told me not to go. All the while, I kept running.

I took on the Hamptons marathon this past September. My brother joined me for most of my training the summer leading up to the race.

My 6 a.m. alarm was something I enjoyed, as it meant time with him to talk about life and to talk about our grandfather — whose health continued to decline. with spurts of improvement.

My Sundays were still for long runs, and many ended with dinner at my grandparents, talking about my mileage, sitting on the floor next to my grandfather’s chair.

I ran the marathon in September and cried crossing the finish line, as he and my grandmother waved from the car that

the volunteers had let them pull up to the finish line.

I lost my grandfather in December.

The Long Island half-marathon was my chance to be with my grandfather. Through my 10 weeks of training, each run — where I braved winter temperatures, sometimes snow, into the beauty of spring — was a chance to chat with my grandfather, looking up at the sky.

With each run came new goals and new achievements. But the one thing that keeps me coming back is the way it makes my mind feel.

I shared every piece of how I prepared for the half-marathon on TikTok and Instagram in hopes that some of my friends would turn to running as well.

In November, I’ll take to the streets of New York City for my first World Major Marathon, and I’m fully prepared for a world of lessons and mental strength to come with that.

To follow along, visit @ParkerSydneySchug on TikTok and Instagram. To donate to my TeamForKids fundraising page for the New York City Marathon, visit RunWithTFK.org/Profile/PublicPage/108228.

Parker Schug is a senior reporter for the Nassau Herald, one of the publications part of the Herald Community Newspapers group.

Just over 600 runners took part in the Jovia Long island marathon last weekend. r yan Clifford, of Westbury, was the first to finish the 26.2-mile race, crossing the line in 2:31:04.

Courtesy of Parker Schug

parker Schug took on her very first Long island Half-marathon this past weekend at eisenhower park — a run that has very special, personal meaning to her, as it brings her closer to her late grandfather.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Cristin delaney-guille, of Long Beach, was the first female to finish last Sunday’s marathon. the race began and ended in eisenhower park.

STEPPING OUT

Cherish mom on her day

By Karen Bloom

“Behind all your stories is always your mother’s story, because hers is where yours begins.”

– Mitch Albom

Mom — and all those special ladies in our lives — surely deserve a special day. The cards, her favorite treats, a colorful bouquet, are certainly welcome. Best yet, surround her with flowers and spring’s glorious blossoms. Old Westbury Gardens is an enchanting locale to do so on Mother’s Day. Stroll the 200 glorious acres of wooded walks and those amazing gardens with their display of vibrant spring color. Explore Westbury House, the estate’s grand Charles II-style mansion, filled with art and furnishings. Pack some lunch for a delightful picnic among spring’s many blooms, or enjoy a bite at the Café in the Woods.

The iconic site’s 65th anniversary season rolls along with all sorts of activities ahead. But, for now, mom will surely enjoy savoring some moments among spring’s colors and scents. Perhaps more so than at any time of the year, Mother’s Day — for most people — is all about the flowers when visiting this grand estate.

“We’re nearing peak season now,” says Old Westbury Gardens president Maura Brush. “As the season goes along, the highlight is the formal gardens. Starting in May is when you really see people spending more time in the Walled Garden and up around Westbury House where the wisteria blooms.”

The array of blooms bursting forth extends throughout the landscape.

“The display in the Walled Garden is really high-impact now,” Brush enthuses. “There’s plenty to take in there.”

Brush is especially fond of the tree peonies. These blooms can be eight inches across 40 blossoms in size.

“The tree peonies are just not to be missed,” she says. “They are stunning, looking like crushed tissue. The texture and color are outstanding.”

Yet, of course, the tulips remain a favorite. Seeing the tulips here by the many hundreds — in the Walled Garden and Thatched Cottage Garden

• Sunday, May 12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

• 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• For more information and program/events schedule, visit OldWestburyGardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

and elsewhere in myriad varieties in a rainbow of colors — is described by Brush as breathtaking. Much care is put into creatively designing the colorful tulip arrangements, for dramatic appeal.

“We spend so much time curating our bulb display,” Bush says. “You can go anywhere and see a row of tulips. We’re always excited about our display as it’s unlike what you’ll see elsewhere.”

Also, visitors might want to consider checking out the refurbished Westbury House, the former home of financier

John S. Phipps, his wife, Margarita Grace Phipps, and their four children. Guided tours are available throughout the day (no registration required), at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. A garden highlights tour is also offered at 2 p.m., meeting at West Porch Beech next to Westbury House.

“I don’t think Westbury House has looked better since I’ve been here,” Brush says. “We’ve had volunteers working all winter long on cleaning and polishing. It feels like there’s a lot of new life. We’ve got some wonderful new people working up in our archives, so it’s been really fun seeing photos of what the house looked like when the family was here, and putting together some of those pieces of the puzzle that we haven’t had before.”

Gleaming and restored back to its days when it was a family home, Westbury House is surely a sight to behold among the blooming gardens. As always — as an added treat, while supplies last — every adult woman receives a complimentary lavender plant. Be sure to stop by the plant shop to get yours.

Dance Theatre of Harlem

The acclaimed dance company visits Long Island on its 2024 tour, appearing on the Tilles Center stage. With a storied history, the first Black classical ballet company — co-founded by dance icon and international superstar Arthur Mitchell — has toured the world and engaged communities. The 18-member, multi-ethnic company performs a forward-thinking repertoire that includes treasured classics, neoclassical works by George Balanchine, and resident choreographer Robert Garland, as well as innovative contemporary works that use the language of ballet to celebrate Black culture. The dynamic program includes Balanchine’s ‘Pas de Dix,’ with music by Alexander Glazuno; ‘Take Me With You,’ with choreography by Robert Bondara, featuring Radiohead music; ‘Return,’ choreographed by Robert Garland, with James Brown and Aretha Franklin tunes.

Friday, May 10, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $64; available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.

Big Bad

Voodoo Daddy

Contemporary swing revival band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy visits the Paramount ready to cut loose. This April marked the 31st anniversary of their emarkable arrival onto the music scene. Since their formation in the early ‘90s in Ventura, California, the band has toured virtually nonstop and has produced a sizable catalog of recorded music, with sales of more than 2 million albums to date. Early on, during their legendary residency at the Derby nightclub in Los Angeles, they reminded the world — in the midst of the grunge era, no less — that it was still cool to swing. The band, co-founded by singer Scotty Morris and drummer Kurt Sodergren, was at the forefront of the swing revival of that time, blending a vibrant fusion of the classic American sounds of jazz, swing and dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture.

Thursday, May 16, 8 p.m. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Photos courtesy Old Westbury Gardensi Old Westbury Gardens is filled with many delights as spring continues to unfold, including the magnificent tree peony and tulips galore.

THE Your Neighborhood

Internationally

Ellington Tilles Center continues its collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, when the Future of Jazz orchestra visits the Tilles Center stage, Friday, May 16, 8 p.m. This all- Ellington showcases features a hand-picked ensemble of some of the greatest young musicians in jazz meeting the challenges posed by one of jazz’s great composers, Duke Ellington. Led by music director Joe Block, a recent Juilliard graduate and Essentially Ellington composition winner, this 15-piece band will keep everyone swinging all night long. The band includes some of best young jazz musicians on the scene today, who love this music as much as audiences.

Ellington’s music is so elegant, so dynamic, so intimately detailed that it takes a group of musicians with a genuine collaborative spark to fully bring out its inner magic, and that is what you will experience at this concert. The program explores decades of Duke’s music, including his earliest hits, Hollywood charts, swinging blues numbers, pieces inspired by his international travels, and portions of his later suites. It’s an eclectic repertoire and yet unmistakably Ellington through and through — always enjoyable upon first listen, but teeming with brilliant details that continue to reveal themselves over time. This vital music is at the core of Jazz at Lincoln Center, and you’re guaranteed to enjoy its timeless genius when the next generation of jazz leaders bring their fresh energy to it. Tickets are $42; available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 2993100. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.

Family theater

Families will enjoy another musical adventure, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, May 10, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, May 11, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, May 14-17, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Back by popular demand after a sold-out 2023 run, see Pigeon, Bus Driver, and some zany passengers sing and dance their way to helping The Pigeon find his “thing” in this upbeat, energetic comedy based on four of Mo Willems’ popular Pigeon books. Featuring a live band to bring Deborah Wicks La Puma’s jazzy score to life, audiences will thoroughly enjoy singing and flapping along with The Pigeon and friends. The audience is part of the action, in this innovative mix of songs, silliness and feathers. It’s an ideal way to introduce kids to theater and the humorous stories from Willems’ books. $10 with museum admission ($8 members), $14 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

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

Nassau County Committed to Moving Forward with Sands New York

Achange in the New York State Gaming Commission’s process will delay application submissions for the three downstate gaming licenses to 2025. In a statement to local media, a spokesperson for Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said, “In spite of delays and changing circumstances, we are fully committed to deal with Sands to bring a world-class hotel, entertainment center, casino and spa to Nassau County."

"Our commitment to being a dedicated neighbor is reflected in our work to meet the needs of the surrounding communities–whether that’s through workforce training and local business readiness, partnerships with Long Island’s educational institutions and nonprofits like the Family

and Childrens' Association, events for organizations like the LGBT Network and the Womens’ Diversity Network, or support of Uniondale’s community center and community land trust, and a variety of youth sports,” Tracey Edwards, Sands Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer said.

“We are grateful for the extraordinary and diverse support we have received and remain committed to being a collaborative partner and excellent neighbor to the organizations and residents of Nassau County,” she added.

One year ago, the Nassau County Legislature approved Sands’ lease with near unanimous support. Las Vegas Sands is now preparing to repeat the process before the county to operate the county-

Joe Zino, General Manager of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum said, “Over the past year, the Sands New York team played a critical role in making sure that our employees remained in place and that no jobs were lost despite outside challenges. We are grateful for our partnership with Sands and we look forward to seeing this deal completed and finalized - not only for our staff at the Nassau Coliseum, but for the whole of Nassau County.”

About the project

Sands is proposing an integrated resort development that would include four and five-star hotel rooms, a Canyon Ranch Spa and Wellness Center, outdoor

community spaces, and a worldclass live performance venue honoring the long legacy of live music at the 72-acre, county-owned Coliseum site. The resort also would feature celebrity chef restaurants, experiential events and venues, high-quality casino gaming and flexible meeting and convention space, with ballrooms.

Since announcing its intention to build in the area, Sands has partnered with the local community in numerous ways, from sponsoring local events, to hosting starstudded youth sports programs, to partnering with many of Nassau County’s leading educational institutions and nonprofits to meet the needs and aspirations of the local communities,

owned Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum property.

Bishop Lionel Harvey Celebrates 25 Years

Sands joined in celebration with the friends and families of First Baptist Church in Westbury to honor Bishop Lionel Harvey’s 25 years as pastor. David Paterson, Former New York State Governor and Senior Vice President for Sands said, “Bishop Harvey is a long time friend, and one of the best, most authentic advocates for this community. He is a leader in every sense of the word. Sands is proud to stand beside him as he celebrates this milestone, and we wish him many more years of success.”

LGBT Network

On April 17, Sands joined the LGBT Network as it celebrated 30 years of service to Long Island, creating safe spaces for LGBT people to live, learn, work, play, and pray. The event raised money to continue and expand services offered to Long Island’s LGBT community and their families. Dr. David Kilmnick, Founder and President, LGBT Network said, "We are deeply grateful for the continued support from our community, which has enabled us to reach this incredible milestone. As we celebrate 30 years of service, our commitment remains steadfast—to create a world where everyone can feel safe and affirmed in their identity. The funds raised tonight will help us expand our programs and continue our mission of advocacy, education, and support for the LGBT community on Long Island."

Central Nassau Club Annual Founders Day Celebration

Sands Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer Tracey Edwards was honored with the Sojourner Truth Award at the Central Nassau Club Annual Founders Day Celebration. Established in 1959 as part of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc., the Central Nassau Club is committed to the betterment of the community and promoting leadership, entrepreneurship and technology development. Congratulations to Tracey and the other honorees including Angela Stanley, Joy Williams, LaShawn Lukes, Samantha Lawson, Adrian Goodwin and Brianna Vaughn.

Womens Diversity Network Summit

Sands was a proud sponsor of The Women’s Diversity Network (WDN) Diversity Summit. More than 200 attendees gathered on Saturday, April 20th at Nassau Community College for a day of powerful workshops, diverse entertainment, cultural food, and networking. WDN connects and mobilizes women and gender-expansive people of different backgrounds to create positive change through unity and collective work.

Photos provided by Sands

Legislator Siela A. Bynoe, Governor David Paterson, Bishop Lionel Harvey, Angela Harvey, Sands Senior Vice President Tracey Edwards, Town of Hempstead Senior Councilwoman Dorothy L. Goosby

Tracey Edwards receives Sojourner Truth Award at the Central Nassau Club Annual Founders Day Celebration

Sands joins the LGBT Network to celebrate 30 years of service to Long Island

Sands sponsored The Women’s Diversity Network Diversity Summit on April 20 at Nassau Community College

Uniondale Community Land Trust Long Island Housing Symposium

Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer for Las Vegas Sands, was a featured speaker at the Uniondale Community Land Trust’s Housing Symposium. The symposium aimed to bridge the gap between the information regarding the resources available and the Uniondale residents looking to use these resources to own an affordable home in the area. Bringing together experts, homeowners, renters, and policymakers, panelists included Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe, Ian Wilder of the Long Island Housing Services, Michael Wigutow from Nassau and Suffolk Law Services, and Michelle Abreu from JP Morgan Chase.

Following her remarks, Edwards said "Congratulations to the Uniondale Land Trust for hosting this critical conversation with the community. Sands New York is proud to be a lead sponsor of this excellent event."

HIA-LI Pre-Trade Show Networking Event

Tracey Edwards and the Sands New York team joined the HIA-LI PreTrade Show Networking Event. The Trade Show, scheduled for Thursday, May 23, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., will be held at the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College’s Grant Campus in Brentwood and will include two information sessions with Sands executives. Marking its second consecutive year as the Title Sponsor, Sands New York’s continued partnership underscores its commitment to fostering local business growth and economic development. Join us for an informative session and Q&A at the 36th Annual HIA-LI Trade Show and hear from top leadership on how to take advantage of new business opportunities. To register for the event or to learn more visit bit.ly/HIASNY2024

Long Island Federation of Labor-AFL-CIO's Annual Dinner

On April 24, 2024 Sands New York served as the event sponsor for the Long Island Federation of Labor-AFL-CIO's Annual Reception for the second year in a row. Honorees included U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East Vice President William Kee, and Long Island Contractors' Association Executive Director Marc Herbst, with a special guest appearance by United States Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. This annual occasion celebrates the organized union movement, elected leaders, as well as community and industry partners on Long Island.

John Durso, President of the Long Island Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO said, "The Sands team has been true to their word, working collaboratively as a partner with the union movement on Long Island—and we look forward to making positive transformational change together with their integrated resort proposal as an economic center piece of Nassau County and all of Long Island."

Old Westbury Foundation Gala

The Sands New York team joined the Old Westbury College Foundation's 2024 Own Your Future Gala. The Gala celebrates the accomplishments of the institution, its students, faculty and staff, while bringing together business and industry leaders from across Long Island and New York City to celebrate dedicated community leaders. Proceeds from the event support the ongoing work of the premier institution, SUNY Old Westbury.

Tracey Edwards speaks at the Uniondale Community Land Trust’s Housing Symposium

United Way youth development program pictured with Sands Senior VP, Governor David Paterson at Long Island Federation of Labor-AFL-CIO's Annual Dinner

Sands will again serve as the Title Sponsor for this year’s HIA-LI Pre-Trade Show Networking Event

Sands Senior Vice President, Governor David Paterson joins SUNY Old Westbury Students at the Old Westbury College Foundation's 2024 Own Your Future Gala

LI TODAY

Sands Updates on Environmental Initiatives

In celebration of Earth Day 2024, Sands marked the environmental milestones it has achieved toward protecting the planet in the areas where the company can have greatest impact: lowcarbon transition, water stewardship, waste reduction and incorporation of sustainable materials and resources.

A key highlight of the past year was receiving LEED Gold Certification for the company’s new corporate headquarters in Las Vegas. Powered by renewable electricity and a number of sustainable features, the corporate campus produces enough energy to power its usage throughout the workday. The campus includes 1,200 solar photovoltaic panels, 16 electric vehicle charging stations, a high albedo rooftop to reflect sunlight and reduce air conditioning load, and 100% LED light sources.

Last year, Sands also made significant progress on its 2021-2025 ambition to reduce emissions by 17.5% from a 2018 baseline by logging

a 50% emissions reduction in 2023 thanks to its focus on energy efficiency projects and renewable energy certificate purchases.

The company’s waste management strategies also yielded substantial results with Sands properties preventing, rescuing or diverting 23% of food waste in 2023. Additionally, the company diverted 52% of construction waste and 20% of operational waste from landfill.

In the area of water stewardship, Sands decreased potable water consumption by 12% from its 2019 baseline in 2023. The company also continued its focus on transitioning to sustainable materials where possible, and as of 2023, 61% of the Sands-branded water bottles used at resorts incorporated sustainable solutions. In addition, 98% of the paper hygiene products sourced globally were sustainable.

“We are firmly committed to protecting the

planet through coordinated strategies around conserving resources, incorporating efficiencies and transitioning to sustainable alternatives in our priority focus areas,” Katarina Tesarova, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said. “Earth Day 2024 is a day in which we can celebrate our achievements through the midpoint of our 2021-2025 environmental, social and governance reporting cycle, and pledge to continue driving toward the targets we have set to reduce our impact around the world.”

Sands’ environmental initiatives are led by the global Sands ECO360 program, which spearheads the company’s efforts in sustainable building development, resort operations, and meetings and events. To learn more about Sands’ environmental priorities and performance, read the latest ESG Report: https://www.sands.com/resources/reports/.

In concert

Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for the latest edition of it’s unique chamber music series, “A Tour de France,” Sunday, May 19, 5 p.m.

Feast your ears with French composers, old and new, when the duoJalal ensemble-inresidence is joined by violinists Deborah Buck and Min-Young Kim, cellist Caroline Stinson and soprano Abigail Brodnick. With wine reception following. $56, $45 members. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For tickets and information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Baby shower for momsto-be

Mercy Hospital hosts this free event for expecting moms-to-be, Saturday, May 11, noon to 2 p.m., in the lower level cafeteria. With raffles, giveaways for mom and baby, and meet and greets with physicians, lactation

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art, Saturday, May 11, noon3 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. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for to register or call (516) 4849337.

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.

Betty Buckley in concert

Tony Award-winner Betty Buckley brings her magical voice to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center stage, Saturday, May 11, 8 p.m. Buckley will share an inspiring and emotionally compelling mix of stories and songs from the world of pop/rock, standards, musical theater, and Americana. Tickets start at $50, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. Visit Adelphi.edu/pac for tickets or call (516) 877-4000.

Oath Animal Hospital Anniversary

Oath Animal Hospital celebrates its first anniversary, Saturday, May 11,. The open house includes a tour, meet the team and pet wellness check. Exams complimentary for all new clients. 505 Newbridge Road, East Meadow. For more on the event, call (516) 951-0254 or visit OathAnimalHospital.com.

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.

Westminster’s top dogs

Long Island Kennel Club welcomes families and their four-legged companions to its spring show, Sunday, May 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Planting Fields Arboretum. This year’s Long Island Kennel Club show follows the annual acclaimed Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show earlier in the week. Many canine contenders are expected to leave the Big Apple and then head east to compete at the annual spring dog shows (Friday through Sunday, May 17-19, all held at the same venue.

The three days celebrate everything canine, from impeccable show dogs and trick-dog demonstrations to doggie dock diving and an agility obstacle course. Events and attractions make this festival a treat for anyone who loves dogs. Sunday also features a special demonstration by the NYPD Transit Bureau Canine Unit, at 11 a.m. Dogs must be leashed at all times. No prong collars, retractable leashes or head halters. $20 admission per car load includes all-day access. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay. Visit LongIslandDogsShows.com or call (516) 776-0923 for more information.

Crawling caterpillar

Bring the kids to Long Island Children’s Museum and say goodbye to the traveling exhibit, “Very Eric Carle,” before it leaves the building, Sunday, May 12 Celebrate one of Eric Carle’s most beloved characters by making a crawling caterpillar to take home at the drop-in program. Suitable for ages 3+ Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Visit LICM.org or call (516) 224-5800 for information.

Befriending Bugs

Families are invited to join entomologist Jeffry Petracca on an adventure with insects at Old Westbury Gardens, Saturday, May 11, 1-3 p.m. Meet some of the biggest and most beautiful insects and spiders from around the world, including giant stick bugs, beetles, tarantulas and scorpions. Learn about each of their amazing adaptations and how they help them to carry out their unique ecosystem roles, even hold many of these animals. Suitable for ages 6-9. Registration required. $17 per child. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information and to register, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.

Mail carriers ready to Stamp Out Hunger

Donating food this weekend is simple, says Randi Shubin Dresner.

“Just leave non-perishable food items in a bag next to your mailbox before the regularly scheduled mail deliver on Saturday, May 11,” she said. And your mail carrier “will do the rest to make sure it gets onto the tables of our Long Islander neighbors in need.”

Shubin Dresner should know. She’s the chief executive of Island Harvest, which provides much-needed food support to more than 300,000 people on Long Island who faces hunger — including 90,000 children.

This weekend’s event is part of the U.S. Postal Service’s annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive, done in collaboration with not only local charities like Island Harvest, but also the National Association of Letter Carriers.

After the food is delivered to Island Harvest, volunteers there sort and repackage the food for distribution to those in-need.

Non-perishable food items needed include canned goods, cereal, pasta, rice, boxed juices, and shelf-stable milk. It does not include anything in glass containers, as these are easy to break.

“Even if it’s a can of soup or a box of cereal, every donation — no matter the size — will help countless Long Islanders who may be struggling to put food on their tables,” Shubin Dresner said.

Island Harvest distributed 15 million

pounds of food in 2022, a jump of 42 percent over donations before the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are counting on the generosity of our neighbors who can spare a little extra to help make this year’s Stamp Out Hunger food drive one of the most successful,” Shubin Dresner added.

Mail carriers are also on the lookout for personal care items like toothpaste,

soap, shampoo, deodorant and disposable diapers. All of these donations go toward replenishing Island Harvest’s network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and other emergency feeding programs throughout Long Island.

Stamp Out Hunger generated 544,000 meals locally. Since its inception in 1993, the national program has collected nearly 1.8 billion pounds of food in all 50

Here’s a sample of what you can leave by your mailbox on May 11:

■ canned beans/dried beans

■ peanut butter or other nut butter

■ canned fruit and vegetables

■ low-sodium soups

■ canned tuna/chicken

■ brown rice/instant brown rice

■ nuts/seeds/dried fruits

■ shelf-stable milk/milk substitutes

■ whole grain pasta

■ low-sodium canned pasta sauce

■ low-sodium canned tomatoes

■ olive or canola oil

■ toiletries and feminine products

■ laundry and dish detergent

■ paper towels and toilet paper

states, plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

All donations are tax-deductible since food collected benefits Island Harvest, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

To learn more, visit IslandHarvest.org.

–Melissa Berman

National Association of Letter Carriers

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of Newbridge Energy Consulting LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 1/27/2024. Office located in Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 257 Newbridge Road, East Meadow, NY 11554. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 145896

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

INDEX NO. 612785/2023 COUNTY OF NASSAU

JPMORGAN CHASE

BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Plaintiff, vs. NICOLAS R. DECICCO

A/K/A NICOLAS

RAYMOND DE CICCO, AS ADMINISTRATOR AND AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT DE CICCO A/K/A

ROBERT DECICCO A/K/A

ROBERT R. DECICCO; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES TO THE ESTATE OF ANGELA

DECICCO A/K/A ANGELA DE CICCO A/K/A LENA DE CICCO, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; “JOHN” DECICCO AS “JOHN DOE #1”, “JOHN DOE #2” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last eleven names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL

SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 2637 LEXINGTON AVENUE, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554

Section: 51, Block: 313, Lot: 6

To the above named Defendants

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State.

The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF

SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $50,000.00 and interest, recorded on January 25, 2005, in Liber M28262 at Page 188, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 2637 LEXINGTON AVENUE, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure

action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: April 1st, 2024 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

146202

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES TRUST 2007-1 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, Plaintiff, Against KAREN JONES A/K/A

KAREN B. JONES A/K/A

KAREN B. LICHTENSTIEN, ET AL,

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 03/24/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on 5/22/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 769 Van Buren Avenue, East Meadow, New York 11554, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being At East Meadow, Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York. Section 50 Block 436 Lot 4

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $765,254.16 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 601311/2019 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Peter Kramer, Esq., Referee. 516-510-4020

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 3/14/2024 File Number: 16-301208 CA 146198

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. MICHAEL J. ORLANDO, et al, Defts. Index #610738/2021. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered March 22, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 28, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a Section 45, Block 519, Lot 10. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. BRIAN J. DAVIS, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #101347 146337

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 05/15/24 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 316/24. NR WESTBURYMirasol Silan & Mark Allen Base, Variance, side yard, maintain (2) AC units attached to dwelling., S/s Patience La., 200’ W/o Pride La., a/k/a 11 Patience La. 317/24. - 319/24. NR WESTBURY - Lanie Friedenthal & Scott Heaney, Variance, front yard average setback maintain roofed over porch attached to dwelling; Special exception to maintain accessory structure (shed) exceeding horizontal maximum; Special exception to maintain 2nd accessory structure (pavilion with BBQ island) higher & larger than permitted & exceeding horizontal maximum., W/s Cobalt La., 100’ N/o Cypress La., a/k/a 62 Cobalt La. 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 Westbury within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board

CRIME bRIEfS

Man arrested for siphoning cooking oil

A man from Jamaica, Queens was arrested in East Meadow last week, after he was found siphoning oil from a restaurant.

According to Nassau County Police Department detectives, Rabindra Singh, 47, committed multiple larcenies in Nassau County between Feb. 2 and May 2 of this year.

Police were patrolling areas of interested involved in recent cooking oil larcenies, when they observed Singh allegedly committing a larceny of cooking oil at Frantoni’s Pizzeria on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow. Singh was using a power pump and blue hose to siphon oil from a metal

container into a storage container inside of his van. He was place under arrest at the scene without further incident.

After his arrest, Singh was charged with fifteen additional incidents of larceny of cooking oil and one attempt which caused property damage.

Singh is charged with 14 counts of petit larceny, two counts of grand larceny, criminal mischief, and possession of burglar tools. He was arraigned on Friday, May 3 at the First District Court in Hempstead.

$5,000 necklace stolen from Salisbury

A 74-year-old female was robbed last week, while walking along Salisbury Park Drive, according to Nassau County Police Department detectives.

The grand larceny occurred on April 29 around 5 p.m.

The victim was walking on Salisbury Park Drive near the intersection of Port Lane when a light colored sedan occupied by a driver and two passengers pulled up next to her. The passengers exited the vehicle and approached her.

They placed a plastic necklace around her neck, and then re-entered their vehicle and left the scene, heading west on Salisbury Park Drive. The vic-

of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available a t 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.

146665

LEGAL NOTICE

EPA Announces the Record of Decision for the New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund Site in Nassau County, New York

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) selected a cleanup plan, documented in a Record of Decision (ROD), to address contaminated groundwater in the

Salisbury portion of the New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund site.

Before finalizing the cleanup plan, EPA held a public meeting and received public comments. The public is encouraged to visit EPA’s website for the New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund site at www.epa.gov/superfund/ new-cassel-hicksville for additional background and site documents, including EPA’s responses to the public comments that were received. For those who would like to learn more about the final cleanup plan and Superfund process, EPA will be hosting community information sessions in early summer 2024. To receive updates on these upcoming sessions, sign up for the site’s mailing list at www.epa.gov/superfund/ new-cassel-hicksville. For more information, please contact EPA’s Community Involvement Coordinators Maya

woman

tim her own necklace that she was wearing, valued at $5,000, was taken by the passengers.

The driver was described as a heavy set, Middle Eastern male, between the ages of 30 and 40. The passengers were both female, described as Middle Eastern. One was approximately 30, while the other was approximately 20.

Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding the crime to please contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers, or to call 911. All callers will remain anonymous.

Greally at 212-637-3588 or greally.maya@epa.gov and Joel Waddell at 212-637-3590 or waddell.joel@epa.gov or EPA’s Remedial Project Manager, Aidan Conway at conway.aidan@epa.gov. 146588

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR TRUMAN 2016 SC6 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JANET ROBERTS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 11, 2023, 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 June 12, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as

1167 Warwick Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. 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 7 and Lots 91-92. Approximate amount of judgment is $408,344.99 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616060/2019. 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 Durst, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 201214-1 146621

–Jordan Vallone

–Jordan Vallone

RabindR a Singh

Baldwin $750,000

Ann Street. Split Level. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Updates include cathedral ceiling.

Taxes: $16,647

Bellmore $572,000

Judith Drive. Hi Ranch. 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Open layout. Formal dining room. Den/family room.

Taxes: $14,766

East Meadow $730,000

Elgin Avenue. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 1.55 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Open layout. Den/family room. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight.

Taxes: $11,666.52

Franklin Square $730,000 Madison Avenue. Colonial. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Nicely sized yard. Updates include bathrooms. 2 car garage.

Taxes: $12,116

Long Beach $885,000

Wyoming Avenue. Contemporary. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Open layout with fireplace. Ample storage.

Taxes: $14,765.77

Lynbrook $695,000

Carol Street. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 1 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Wood burning stove. First floor master bedroom.

Taxes: $17,150

Merrick $725,000

Pettit Avenue. Hi Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal L-shaped dining room. Den/family room. Updates include skylight and security system.

Taxes: $13,054.12

Rockville Centre $755,000

Windso Avenue. Cape. 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Partial finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. First floor bedroom.

Taxes: $15,401.23

West Hempstead $700,000

Oak Street. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. First floor bedroom. Many updates including new bathrooms, new windows and doors, new roof and siding, 3 ductless air conditioning/heat units. 2 car garage.

Taxes: $14,291.69

Woodmere $2,500,000 Edward Avenue. Colonial. 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room. High-end finishes include cathedral ceiling, skylight, marble in bathrooms. Security system.

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We should have learned more than we have from history

Looking back at history, we often see what appear to have been clearly defined periods, eras or growths of movements. Some good or entertaining, like the Roaring Twenties and the Jazz Age. Some revolutionary, like the turbulent ’60s. Others absolutely evil, like the Winds of War, the growth of Nazism in the 1930s that led inevitably to the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust.

Our general impression is that people living during those times realized, or were in some way aware of, the uniqueness of the challenges and transformations going on around them. My reading of history, however, is that for the most part — whether it be everyday people, intellectuals or world leaders — there was little realization during those years that the world as they knew it was that much different from what had come before. Until it

was. Or that tragedy lay ahead. Until it was too late.

I remember when I was in college in the 1960s, doing research papers on events that occurred in the ’20s and ’30s and noting how different the contemporary accounts of those years and events were from the histories written decades later. In the ’20s there was the Manassa Mauler (Jack Dempsey), the Sultan of Swat (Babe Ruth) and the Four Horsemen of Notre Dame for boxing, baseball and college football aficionados. And for those who enjoyed the nightlife, there were the speakeasies, the Cotton Club, in Harlem, and the Charleston. But when you read the newspapers and periodicals from those years, there is little if any recognition of the uniqueness of the time as an era, like the “era of wonderful nonsense,” as the ’20s were later dubbed.

Dactually already was). While there would be increasing concern over the growing repression of Jews in Germany, that awareness was nothing like what it should have been. And Hitler’s annexation of the Sudetenland was met by British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain appeasing Hitler with hope of “peace in our time.”

emocrats are turning against Israel,

and Republicans are turning against Ukraine.

Similarly, in the 1930s, there was the media coverage of Hitler’s election in Germany, perhaps describing him as heavy-handed, but certainly nothing like the monster he would become (and

HAll this was ignored by too many America Firsters who chose to be isolationists. And then there was Pearl Harbor, the Axis of Evil and World War II.

The 1960s began with President John F. Kennedy and his New Frontier, hailing America’s greatness and pledging to “support any friend, oppose any foe,” before America slowly but inexorably edged throughout the second half of the decade into a maelstrom of outof-control campus demonstrations, flagburning, Woodstock, the Age of Aquarius and what grew into a permanent drug culture subset.

What will future historians say about today’s myriad crises and cultural challenges? Russia invading

Ukraine, and threatening the European order that has prevailed for almost eight decades. China dramatically expanding its military, threatening Taiwan and spreading its economic power and influence throughout the world. Israeli being horrifically attacked by Iran’s proxy, Hamas, followed by thousands of pro-Hamas, antisemitic demonstrators marching in the streets of New York, occupying college campuses across the country and threatening Jewish students at those colleges.

America’s response to these challenges? More Democrats turning against Israel’s government. More Republicans becoming isolationist and turning against Ukraine. More American businesses increasing their dealings with China. College presidents negotiating with pro-Hamas, antisemitic students illegally taking over campuses. Are we blind? Has history taught us nothing, and are we forcing ourselves to relive the worst days of history? God help us all.

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

The humble pen takes on the might sword

ere’s an anniversary no one wants to celebrate: The Columbine school shooting — April 20, 1999 — just passed its 25th anniversary. More than a dozen dead, 21 injured. A new era begins. Why, why, why bring up such a horrific event? Perhaps because it hasn’t stopped.

Even though I sit here in the comfort of my study, feeling perfectly safe, I can’t emotionally disentangle myself from the news, which is always, in one way or another, about the human need to kill itself — or rather, the human assumption that it’s divided from itself, and “the other,” whomever that other is, either needs to be killed or is, at best, expendable. For instance:

“The Senate has passed $95 billion in war aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, sending the legislation to President Joe Biden after months of delays and contentious debate over how involved the United States should be in foreign wars.”

So AP informs us, and immediately scenarios of screaming children,

bombed aid workers, home and hospitals reduced to rubble, flash before me. No, these are not abstract scenarios. Part of me and part of you lie trapped in that rubble, or stunned and grieving over the sudden loss of your whole family. And all we seem to do is continue funding the process that makes this happen, as though a larger understanding of our existence is not available — certainly not at the level of global politics.

What is power? Is it simply and sheerly us vs. them? Good vs. evil? Every war on Planet Earth is sold with this advertising slogan. Perhaps this is why I find myself thinking about the Columbine shootings — and all the mass shootings since then. Define an enemy, then kill it. This is what we learn in history class — but would-be mass shooters, caged in their own isolation, cross a line. They take this lesson personally. And there’s a world of possibility that welcomes them, oh so ironically. In this world, the sword is mightier than the pen (or anything else). Power means power over . . . something. So, if you’re a lost or wounded soul, imagining an enemy that needs to be destroyed is probably enormously tempting. If the world is going on with-

out you, maybe you should do something to stop it.

And the “world of possibility” — by which I mean far more than merely the “gun culture,” but the entirety of our culture of scripted violence, from global politics to the media to the entertainment industry — makes the loner’s imagined and insane solution, defining and killing an enemy, an actual possibility.

i n poems we can ask, where are we headed? What world comes next?

At the time of the Columbine shootings, I had begun writing poetry. This was in the wake of my wife’s death, in 1998, from pancreatic cancer. Poetry allowed me to deal with the shattered narrative of my life, and pretty soon I had expanded the terrain of my poetry beyond my personal grief to, well, life itself, including the horrific strangeness of the news.

And I happened to read, after Columbine, a news account of President Bill Clinton visiting the school and meeting with students in the gymnasium. And outside the school, gun-rights advocates held what they called a vigil, holding signs that declared “gun control kills kids” and “we will never give up our guns.”

What struck me about it the most was the idea that this was a “vigil,”

which implied something more than simply a protest — an expression of anger and disagreement. A vigil dug deeper, seemingly entering the soul. Guns were a source of power and power was the source of one’s humanity, so stripping away the right to own one had a deep, spiritual impact.

I wrote a poem in response to the vigil — I called it “Vigil” — attempting to address my feelings about the total scenario: the shooting itself, Americans’ deeply desired availability of guns, the impact of that availability on society’s lost souls.

I acknowledge that the sword is probably mightier than the poem, but a poem can ask questions that the sword can’t: Why? Where are we headed? What world comes next? Does armed defense — whether of home or country — ever go wrong, ever turn into poison?

All humans have a dark side. Is killing it in the other guy our only option? And what are the consequences of doing so?

Can power be with others, even those with whom we are in serious conflict, rather than simply over them? And if so, how can we begin reorganizing the world’s relationship with itself?

What’s stopping us?

Robert Koehler is an author and journalist syndicated by PeaceVoice.

RoBERT C.

HeraLd editoriaL

Cherishing moms who embody love, strength

at first glance, Elinor Sullivan was simply a proud suburban mother, raising her four children on the other side of the Great Depression.

Her husband was a state legislator. Her father was a vaudeville performer who originated the role of the Scarecrow in a stage production of “The Wizard of Oz.” But beyond that, you probably wouldn’t have looked twice at Elinor.

Except you should have. Because before she was a wife and a mom, she was Elinor Smith, the “Flying Flapper of Freeport,” who never met a plane she didn’t like or a dare she wouldn’t take. In fact, one taunt persuaded her to fly a Waco-10 under not one, but all four bridges that crossed the East River into Manhattan — a stunt that had never been done before, and was never repeated.

Elinor once held the women’s solo flight endurance record of more than 26 hours, set a speed record of nearly 191 mph, and even topped an altitude record of more than 32,500 feet, taking off from Roosevelt Field. And she became the first woman ever pictured on a box of Wheaties cereal.

And Elinor gave all of that up for two decades — the prime years of her life — so she could focus all of her attention on being a mother. Yet today, mothers can have careers while raising their children, showing even more how

Letters

D’Esposito gets veterans and migrants wrong

To the Editor:

extraordinary every one of them is.

As we approach Mother’s Day, it’s important to reflect on the remarkable influence and unwavering love mothers bring into our lives. From the moment we enter this world, mothers are our first nurturers, guides and champions. They are the silent heroes whose impact transcends time and circumstances, shaping us into the individuals we become.

Mothers possess a unique blend of strength and tenderness. They are the multitaskers extraordinaire, effortlessly juggling countless roles with grace. From pursuing careers to nurturing children — mothers do it all with unparalleled dedication. Their resilience in facing life’s challenges serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with love and determination, any obstacle can be overcome.

What truly makes mothers extraordinary is their boundless capacity for love. A mother’s love is a force unlike any other — a source of comfort in times of distress. A beacon of hope in moments of despair.

It is a love that knows no bounds, selfless and unconditional. This love shapes our earliest memories, and echoes through the milestones of our lives — a constant reminder of unwavering support.

Mothers aren’t just caregivers, they are our first teachers, imparting lessons

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito is pitting New Yorkers against one another, and we see right through it.

In his recent op-ed, “Migrants get more government support than veterans” (April 18-24), D’Esposito baselessly argued that asylum seekers receive more social benefits than U.S. veterans.

His claim is completely inaccurate. There is no question that our country should expand services and safety nets for our veterans. But D’Esposito cherry-picks one measure of VA benefits, failing to mention government investment in pensions, health care, education and other critical services for veterans.

D’Esposito also falsely suggests that “many” migrant families are receiving preloaded debit cards for “a wide range of expenses,” failing to acknowledge that this New York City program is a limited pilot for just 500 families, to cover the cost of essentials like food and diapers. In fact, this is a fiscally sound effort that costs approximately $12.52 per person per day, saving taxpayers $600,000 per month and $7 million per year, while offering families more control over their budgets. If the program is successful in its implementation, we hope it will be expand-

that extend far beyond textbooks. They teach us compassion through their actions, resilience through their examples, and empathy through their understanding.

The wisdom passed down from our mothers is a treasure trove of lessons, guiding us through sunny days and stormy nights.

In celebrating mothers, we honor the unsung heroines whose sacrifices often go unnoticed. They prioritize our needs above their own, making countless sacrifices without seeking recognition. Whether it’s waking up early to pack lunches or staying up late to offer reassurance, they give of themselves tirelessly, embodying the essence of unconditional love.

On Sunday, let us celebrate the phenomenal women — like Elinor Smith, and our own mothers — who have shaped our lives in profound ways. Beyond the flowers and gifts lies a deeper appreciation for the incredible impact mothers have on our existence. And they don’t need to fly under bridges or break endurance records. In the tapestry of life, mothers are the golden threads that bind us together. Their presence is a gift that enriches our world in ways words cannot fully capture. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us cherish and honor these extraordinary women who personify love, strength and resilience.

The blemish of college demonstrations

the numerous college demonstrations lately have given me a lot of mixed feelings. Having lived through the years when there were other demonstrations, I contrast how those incidents were handled with the present ones. In addition, I can’t help but feel some sadness about how our elected officials are reacting to these events.

In 1970, there were nationwide student protests that spurred mass walkouts from college and high school classrooms. The students were upset about the expansion of the Vietnam War in Cambodia. According to Wikipedia, the movement began on May 1, and increased dramatically after the killing of four students at Kent State University. At its height, over 4 million students participated. There was some violence, but overall the demonstrations were peaceful.

In their wake, public officials around the country held hearings and initiated investigations into student conduct, and issued numerous reports suggesting how universities should handle such demonstrations and emphasizing the need for better communication

between administration officials and students. This was the responsible way for elected officials to act, compared with how they act today.

Rather than trying to find a consensus on how university officials should react when students stage protests, Republicans have created a partisan divide with their conduct and their rhetoric. Shortly after students at Columbia University began their protest, House Speaker Mike Johnson rushed to the campus and held a news conference, surrounded by eight other Republican members of Congress. No attempt was made to convene a bipartisan group, even though the battle against antisemitism is not a partisan issue.

today’s college leadership is handicapped when handling outbursts.

education, such as President George Bush, Yale alumni, but few show respect for the campus life that launched their own careers.” Members of Congress such as New York’s own Elise Stefanik want to burnish their political images by beating up on college officials instead of pushing to reform how campus demonstrations should be handled.

protest participants are from campus to campus. Many have made demands that made no sense, and some have used antisemitic slurs even though they were Jewish. Too many of today’s college students seem to be totally unaware of the history of the tensions between Israel and its Arab neighbors.

The protest at Harvard University created the perfect opportunity for the dozens of Harvard alumni now serving in Congress to step forward in a united effort to offer guidance and support to the university. Jeremi Suri, a respected conservative writer, told CNN, “What we need are politicians who, despite their disagreements with liberal professors, are willing to stand up for the benefits they received from their own university education.”

Suri went on to say, “Many figures in the Republican Party have the same

Letters

puts 18,000 veterans in his district at risk.

Pitting groups against one another does nothing to improve the lives of New Yorkers. It only perpetuates an usagainst-them narrative at a time when our country desperately needs collaboration and unity. If D’Esposito is serious about boosting the safety net for vulnerable New Yorkers, I’d be happy to work with him to give every New York family an equal chance at success.

MURAD AWAWDEH Staten Island

Murad Awawdeh is president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition.

Does the MTA’s congestion pricing plan have a fatal flaw?

To the Editor:

Even with congestion pricing scheduled to start on June 30, there is no way the Metropolitan Transportation Authority will be able to advertise, award and issue Notices to Proceed tor contractors for $15 billion worth of projects remain-

ing in the agency’s 2020-2024 Five Year Capital Plan before the end of the year. There are also billions of dollars in other ongoing capital projects whose work will be carried over into the MTA’s $51 billionplus 2025-2029 five-year plan.

There may not be enough resources to integrate the implementation of all of the congestion price-funded projects in the current five-year plan with those in the first and second years of the next five-year plan. The MTA lacks sufficient procurement, project managers, engineers, legal and force account employees, along with track outage availability, to proceed with all these projects in the same time frame.

Billions of dollars’ worth of capitalimprovement projects will be delayed. Costs will increase due to inflation and other factors as time goes by. The $51 billion-plus 2025-2029 Five Year Capital Plan is due to be released and adopted within seven months. It should include an integrated schedule for how the billions in carryover projects from the current fiveyear plan will proceed with billions more planned for the new program.

MTA board members, elected officials, New York City, state and federal funding agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration, along with commuters, taxpayers, transit advocacy

Aside from the partisan attempts to prove which party can better battle antisemitism, today’s college leadership is badly handicapped when it comes to handling campus outbursts. Typically, college presidents are chosen based on their academic achievements and their ability to raise money. There is often little or no discussion of whether they are capable of establishing lines of communications with their students.

Many university leaders, such as former Harvard President Claudine Gay, are paralyzed when campus conduct becomes a headache. There are many college presidents who need a crash course in today’s challenges, especially because colleges have become scapegoats for numerous Republican members of Congress and governors.

Another issue is the students at those colleges and universities. I’ve been amazed by how uninformed many

Last but by far not least are the governors and other officials responsible for controlling the upheaval. Some governors have worked with college officials to try to find nonviolent ways to handle the protests. Others, such as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, sent state police to campuses to arrest protesting students, without any communication with campus officials.

In the months and years ahead, many people will write books about these demonstrations, but little will change. Publicity-minded government officials, anxious to show their law-andorder credentials, will continue to beat up on university officials along with the students. College administrators will continue to botch their responses, absent any seasoned outside help, and the current drama will no doubt be repeated again and again.

Jerry Kremer was an Assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

Framework by Parker Schug

groups and transit reporters need to see this critical information. It is the only way we can determine if the MTA is up to meeting the challenge.

LARRY PENNER

Great Neck

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

At the Gideon Putnam, site of the New York Press Association spring conference — Saratoga Springs

JerrY kremer