Nassau County residents gathered in the heart of Eisenhower Park for an evening filled with music, fireworks and patriotism. TD Bank’s ‘Celebrate America’ Fireworks and Show on July 3 featured two musical performances by Chicken Head Rocks and The Allmost Brothers Band, a drone and laser light show, and a pyrotechnics display, thanks to Fireworks by Grucci. Whether people were gathered by the theatre, or watching the show from around the park, the display was awe-inspiring.
Above, colors burst in the air over the lake behind the theatre in Eisenhower Park. Right, The Allmost Brothers Band entertained those who came out for the spectacle.
Story, more photos, Page 3.
Staying mindful of brain health, all year long
By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com
June was Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, but the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter offered tips about brain health that are useful year-round.
About 426,500 New Yorkers aged 65 and older are suffering with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Long Island chapter, adding that more than seven million nationwide are afflicted with the disease.
While symptoms become more severe later in life, the brain changes that cause Alzheimer’s can begin decades before symptoms start. That time period is critical for people at risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to catch the symptoms as early as possible.
we also want to encourage anyone experiencing memory or thinking problems to see their doctor.”
The Alzheimer’s Association began recognizing June as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month in 2014, with a keen eye on fundraising for dementia research, educating the public about brain health, and connecting the families and caretakers of people with Alzheimer’s to quality care and support.
FRANcEScA ToDARo Community Educator, Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter
“We want people to know that there are steps they can take to potentially reduce their risk of cognitive decline,” the Long Island chapter said. “And
“Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month offers the perfect opportunity for New York residents to take charge of their brain health,” Lori Maldavir, the chapter’s director of program outreach, said in a release. “We want people to know there are steps they can take to reduce their risk of cognitive decline, potentially.”
The Long Island chapter provides a community and support system for people with Alzheimer’s, and their family, friends
Continued on page 2 W hat is healthy for the heart is healthy for the brain
Maureen Lennon/Herald photos
francesca todaro’s journey with her father’s dementia began in 2012, when symptoms for the disease began to show. today, she uses her experience to provide guidance for people in similar circumstances.
Annual walk is slated for Eisenhower Park this fall
and caretakers, while raising awareness of the importance of brain health, Francesca Todaro, the chapter’s community educator, said.
“I feel like a lot of people that have Alzheimer’s, or are confused about Alzheimer’s and other dementias, really could use the education and resources that the association can help them with,” Todaro said. “I know I’ve been in that position, and it’s really helpful to have that information.”
Todaro’s father was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease in 2021. Symptoms of Lewy body dementia include changes in sleep, behavior and cognition — meaning it’s not always tied to memory loss. The Long Island chapter connected the Todaro family with valuable resources, support groups and attorneys that helped secure finances. Since then, she has used her experience to educate people in similar circumstances.
“One thing I always like to tell people in my program is that you’re not alone,” Todaro said.
The warning signs for Alzheimer’s include disruptive memory loss, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and changes in mood and personality. The association compared examples of dementia with non-threatening, age-appropriate changes to the brain. Some changes that are normal as people age include slower processing speeds and multitasking difficulties.
The chapter’s advice to mitigate the risk of dementia includes cognitively stimulating activities, such as playing chess and focusing on the health of other parts of the body.
According to the association, a hearthealthy diet could have additional benefits for brain health due to a potential connection between high blood pressure and dementia that is being further researched.
“What is healthy for the heart is
healthy for the brain,” Todaro said.
The Long Island chapter’s fundraising events double as experiential learning that can help people with dementia. Activities like knitting and cooking can help those suffering from the disease retain familiarity while completing tasks.
“If you are inclined to get the disease, you need to stay active,” Tinamarie Hardekopf the Long Island chapter’s director of development, said. “We have people (participate in) do-it-yourself fundraisers that they can tie into when they’re available, and to their specific hobbies and clubs that they belong to or organizations that they’re interested in.”
Programs this past June included events such as The Longest Day, a summer solstice-themed fundraiser, which invited participants to exercise with sports, play games, bake, and partake in other memory-preserving activities. The Longest Day is one of the year’s major events, helping the Long Island chapter reach its annual $1 million fundraising goal.
In addition, the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s — one of the chapter’s largest fundraising and community outreach efforts — is slated to take place in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow on Oct. 6. Hardekopf said the walk further acknowledges that heart health is related to brain health, and she encouraged all who are at risk for the disease to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
“It’s important to mention that the recent studies have linked brain health and heart health,” Hardekopf said. “Healthy living is so important — eating well, exercising, being social, keeping up with your hobbies, you know, doing puzzles, things like that. Sitting at home is not going to help you fight.”
To learn more about future events and the warning signs of Alzheimer’s, visit ALZ.org/LongIsland. To learn more about future fundraising events and walks, visit ALZ.org/LIWalk.
Continued from page 1
Courtesy Francesca Todaro
Fireworks and family fun at ‘Celebrate America’
In honor of the Fourth of July, Nassau County once again illuminated the sky with bursts of color over the lake behind the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre for its annual “Celebrate America” firework display on July 3, hosted by TD Bank and Fireworks By Grucci.
The event kicked off with performances by The Allmost Brothers Band, an Allman Brothers tribute band, and Chicken Head Rocks, a cover band that plays a wide range of songs from rock, blues, and soul.
Following the performance, the fireworks commenced.
Fireworks got their start in America, after President John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife, First Lady Abagail Adams, that America’s independence should be celebrated with fireworks. To this day, we continue to honor our founding fathers the same way we did centuries ago, carrying on a tradition that always makes for a fun and exciting day.
This year’s “Celebrate America” display was made possible by Fireworks by Grucci. This company, known as “America’s First Family of Fireworks,” got its start in Southern Italy in 1850. The family immigrated to Elmont, New York, in 1870, to share their masterful pyrotechnic artistry with the United States. Their fireworks have since then been used at several presidential inaugurations and Olympic Games, among countless other notable events.
The show concluded with a special drone and laser light display, wrapping up a wonderful evening of entertainment for Independence Day.
–Jack Schwed
Maureen Lennon/Herald photos
A fireworks display, by Fireworks by Grucci, illuminated the lake behind the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre.
Paul DiBenedetto, Eddie Camiolo, Joen Maddabre, Harry Jecklin and David Glatter of The Chicken Heads rocked Eisenhower Park on July 3, during Nassau County’s ‘Celebrate America’ show.
The Allmost Brothers Band, a tribute band to the Allman Brothers, performed at ‘Celebrate America.’ The band consists of Dave Filloramo, Sean McGrath, Dave Losee, Dan Roth and Joe Wasserman, above. Tom Hooker, who is not pictured, is also a member of the group.
The Independence Day display also included a drone show. Bright lights formed an American flag in the sky.
Karl Nuncio and Anna Yang attended the fireworks display in Eisenhower Park.
NEWS bRIEf
a pool.
7-year-old dies after apparent drowning
A 7-year-old was found unresponsive in a pool in East Meadow on July 4, around 3:55 p.m.
According to Nassau County Police Department detectives, officers responded to a residence on 2nd Avenue for reports of a 7-year-old male child who was found not breathing from an apparent drowning accident in
a swimming pool.
When officers arrived, the child was already removed from the pool and CPR was being administered. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he pronounced dead by a physician.
The investigation is ongoing.
–Jordan Vallone
New York’s New Transfer on Death Deed (TOD)
Effective July 19, 2024, New York will permit the use of a transfer on death deed (TOD). The main benefit of the new law will be that property deeds with heirs named on them will not have to pass through the probate process. The heirs do not have to sign and the designations may be revoked by filing a new deed.
While avoiding probate was formerly the holy grail of estate planning, today it is more of a holy trinity (1) avoiding probate, (2) keeping assets in the bloodline, and (3) protecting assets from long-term care costs. The TOD deed only accomplishes the first of those. In addition, while the TOD works legally, it does not always work socially.
The main drawback to the TOD deed is that there is no one in charge. The heirs may not get along with each other. One may want to sell the property, another may want to keep it. They may disagree as to who to list it for sale with, how much to ask for the property or which offers to accept or reject. It’s often a case of too many cooks. With a trust, one or two persons who you believe
to be most capable are in charge and, while they must keep other heirs informed, they do not need their permission to make these decisions.
If any child predeceases, and their share is left to minor children, then a courtappointed legal guardian will be required to protect the minor’s interests, which may delay a sale of the property by many months. Since the age of majority is eighteen years, the legal guardian is required to turn the money over to them at that young age. A trust avoids guardianship proceedings for minor heirs, puts the person you choose in charge of the funds and states the age at which you want them to receive the money.
Finally, trusts can provide for the trustee to hold back and manage funds for a beneficiary (1) going through a divorce, (2) facing financial difficulties, or (3) unable to own property due to disability.
While the new TOD deed will have its place in the lawyer’s toolkit, it is a blunt instrument which may, absent wise counsel, do more harm than good.
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington
CRIME bRIEfS
East Meadow man arrested for assault
An East Meadow man was arrested for an assault that occurred in East Meadow on June 28, around 11:05 p.m.
According to Nassau County Police Department detectives, Oscar Aguilar, 31, was involved in a verbal argument with a 42-yearold male victim at his home. The argument escalated and Aguilar slashed the victim’s left hand with a box cutter, causing a laceration.
Officers responded and arrested
Aguilar without further incident.
The victim was transported by a Nassau County Police Ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment and is currently listed in stable condition.
Aguilar is charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon. He was arraigned on June 29 at the First District Court in Hempstead.
–Jordan Vallone
East Meadow driver charged with DWI
An East Meadow woman was arrested following a fatal vehicular accident, that occurred on June 28 at 7:20 p.m. in Old Bethpage.
According to Nassau County Police Department detectives, Cheryl Bergenstock, 64, was driving when she struck another car, operated by a male victim, 82, on Round Swamp Road near the intersection of Winding Road.
As a result of the collision, the victim, who was indentified as Alan Goldsand, was airlifted by the Nassau
County Police Department’s Aviation Unit to a nearby hospital, and later pronounced deceased by a staff physician. Bergenstock was taken to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
An investigation revealed that Bergenstock was operating her vehicle in an intoxicated condition and was placed under arrest.
Bergenstock is charged with vehicular assault and driving while intoxicated.
–Jordan Vallone
Meadowbrook incident leads to arrests
Three individuals were arrested on Monday for an incident that occurred on the Meadowbrook Parkway around 2:10 a.m.
According to the Nassau County Police Department, an officer traveling northbound on the parkway observed a vehicle shooting fireworks out of its sun roof. The officer conducted a vehicle and traffic law stop.
After a thorough investigation, all three occupants of the car, Frederick Tavares Hernandez, 19, of Hempstead, Justin Padilla, 18, of Hempstead, and Fernando Aristides, 19, of Uniondale, were placed into police custody without incident.
For the safety of all residents and
■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/eastmeadow
visitors, Nassau County police will continue their zero-tolerance approach regarding the possession and illegal use of fireworks.
The police department reminds residents that the use of explosives, including fireworks, is illegal and extremely dangerous.
All three men arrested are charged with reckless endangerment and unlawfully possessing fireworks. Hernandez was also issued a number of traffic summons.
Each men was issued an appearance ticket, returnable to the First District Court in Hempstead on July 30.
–Jordan Vallone
Oscar aguilar
Herald file photo
Police responded to an home on 2nd Avenue last week, after a child was found unresponsive in
Is AI on its way to taking over education?
School districts explore methods of preventing artificial intelligence from compromising learning
By Charles Shaw, Parker Schug & Brendan Carpenter
Continuing a series exploring the presence of artificial intelligence in our schools — and, over time, in society as a whole. Thoughts? Questions? Ideas? Email us at execeditor@liherald.com.
Artificial intelligence is changing the education system in almost every way, but what about students who are trying to use it to get an unfair advantage, or to skip work that would otherwise help them learn?
In these uncertain times, school districts throughout Nassau County are looking for answers to prevent AI’s overreach in the classroom. In the Wantagh School District, an Artificial Intelligence Committee, composed of administrators, principals, directors and teachers, was formed last year to initially focus on understanding AI, but developed into discussing how it can be used responsibly.
Carol-Ann Winans, a committee member and the district’s executive director of curriculum and instruction, said that it is focused on making sure students aren’t relying on AI technology to think for them, while at the same time using it as a tool to enhance the way they learn.
knowledge is key in preventing overreach. James Widmer, the school’s deputy superintendent and chief operating officer, said that several staff groups have been given training on how AI operates and the range of tools that are available.
“Generative AI has the potential to enhance teaching, learning and operations greatly,” Widmer wrote in a statement. “At Nassau BOCES, we have been closely monitoring its evolution and adding uses as it makes sense.”
“Our goal,” he added, “is to implement generative AI solutions that enhance our ability to support our component school districts, fostering environments where every student can maximize their potential.”
“I would want to help the students use this tool to further their learning,” Winans said, “and not turn it into something that becomes a shortcut.”
When AI tools such as ChatGPT, began making headlines, Winans saw it as a way to help organize data and find original sources of information, but discussions in the committee opened her eyes to the challenges it could pose in the area of writing. Concerns that students might no longer value the understanding of writing structure, vocabulary and thought because of AI prompted the committee to craft instructions for the students.
At first, some teachers were hesitant to discuss AI, according to Winans, but the committee realized that it was unavoidable, because colleges, such as Stony Brook University, are creating policies on how students can use it appropriately in classrooms.
“If I’m preparing my child for an essay, if they’re going to be able to use AI tools in college and I’m not allowing them to use it in high school, am I truly preparing them for the world that they’re going in?” she said.
According to Winans, educators must have clear instructions on when AI can be used in completing assignments. “We do need to provide explicit instructions to the students,” she said, “so that they know their expectations.”
At Nassau BOCES, in Garden City,
Kenneth Kroog, assistant director for special education at Nassau BOCES, said in a statement that AI’s purpose there is still evolving.
“We are exploring the possibility of acquiring an AI tool to assist teachers with lesson planning, differentiating instruction, and personalizing learning content and goals,” Kroog said.
The Wantagh committee, Winans said, is now in the process of crafting a policy for students next year, which will address the appropriate use of AI tools.
Dependence on technology, instead of a student’s thinking, and protection of intellectual property are two of the committee’s biggest concerns, she said, adding that most AI generators, such as ChatGPT, are not compliant with state education law, and therefore are not allowed in classrooms. But there is little to stop students from accessing AI tools elsewhere.
“We just can’t ignore that the students may or may not be using these tools at home,” Winans said.
Why ChatGPT is not compliant with state education law
According to the State Education Department, ChatGPT does not comply with Education Law 2-D, which requires schools that use technology tools that will have access to students’ personal information, such as their names, they must have a data-protection agreement, which ChatGPT is unwilling to do with any school, according to the department. So the department does not recommend students’ use of it in schools.
Compliance also requires that information such as the names of students’ parents or other family members, home addresses, Social Security numbers, student numbers and biometric records be kept private.
“There are a host of issues in ChatGPT’s terms of service that would not allow New York students to use the
product, including the ability to use student data for advertising purposes,” the education department said in a statement.
Additionally, ChatGPT’s terms of service state that users must be at least 13, and have parental consent if they are under 18. Thus, at minimum, the state department says that schools cannot use the product without written parental consent and knowledge.
“Generative AI products have been created with schools, and privacy, in mind,” the department statement added. “Schools should only use those products — and only after entering into a data protection agreement with the vendor.”
At BOCES, privacy is monitored, Widmer said. “We are also keenly aware of data privacy, and are ensuring that any tools we use are in compliance with state and federal laws,” he said.
Jennifer Gallagher, superintendent of Long Beach Public Schools, said ChatGPT is blocked in the schools.
“There are some legal privacy issues with the platform that make it difficult for schools to allow students to access it,” Gallagher said.
Newer software, called Magic School AI, was made specifically for educators to use, and is utilized by over 3,000 districts and schools worldwide. Another recent launched is MagicStudent, in the hope of building students’ AI literacy
and bringing responsible AI use to schools. Canva also has compliant AI software.
“Because ChatGPT is not (education law) compliant, many districts do not have access to (it) during the school day,” Long Beach’s director of literacy, Dr. Lorraine Radice, said. “There are other platforms like Magic School, and Canva has an artificial intelligence component that I introduced to teachers this year in the fall, that is compliant. So one of the hurdles that educators, and especially those folks in the technology department, (have) is to make sure that we can use some of these tools in our schools, and to protect the privacy of students and adults that work in the district.”
Using AI as a tool, and not as a shortcut
Winans said that ideas have been bounced around the Wantagh committee to assess how students can approach AI, which value original thought, protection of students’ intellectual property, and the need to maximize opportunities and improve learning in an ever-changing technological world. She added that the district acknowledges that AI presents both challenges and opportunities.
“If you tell a child not to do something, they’re probably going to do it anyway,” Winans said, “so how can we
Parker Schug/Herald Declan Schug, a Bayport-Blue Point High School sophomore, uses artificial intelligence and other tools, such as an Apple Watch, a calculator and a laptop, while working on a homework assignment.
State education law will affect use of AI
maximize the opportunity to use this new technology to improve the learning process?”
At an East Meadow School District meeting last November, Jim Mendonis, the district’s director of social studies and 21st century learning, gave a presentation on AI in Education, which discussed how it works and how its misuse can be prevented in classrooms.
Mendonis spoke of activities in the class that help teachers see their students’ thinking process, such as discussions, debates, collaborative work and other activities that do not require plugging into a device or writing a paper.
He added that writing is still critical for education, but students need to know how to write responsibly, without relying on AI in the wrong way. AI, according to Mendonis, is changing day to day, and we don’t know what jobs will exist in the future, when students graduate, making it essential to inform students and teachers about responsible AI use.
“Progress has become so quick that we would be doing our students a disservice if we didn’t include this somehow,” Mendonis said.
For appropriate use, Winans suggested using generative AI as a tool for research, such as finding articles to cite or suggestions on how to write effectively. When it comes to identifying whether a paper was written by AI or a human, Winans said that it’s diffi-
cult, but there are ways to tell.
“Teachers know their students,” she said. “Teachers know their writing styles. Teachers know how they speak in class. It’s amazing how well teachers get to know their children.”
At Lawrence High School, in Cedarhurst, both ChatGPT and MagicSchool are used by students and teachers, Principal Jennifer Lagnado-Papp wrote in an email.
Teachers at LHS look for specific words and consistency in writing style, to prevent overreach of AI in students’ work and to promote integrity.
“It is obvious when something was written by ChatGPT without further editing,” Lagnado-Papp wrote. “There are certain words that ChatGPT uses regularly, such as ‘underscores,’ ‘firstly,’ ‘secondly,’ ‘thirdly.’ These formulaic constructions are not typically used by high school students.”
Lagnado-Papp acknowledged that at times it is hard to detect AI, but Lawrence High teachers try to push students to produce unique, personal work.
“We want our students to recognize that AI is not a panacea, and they will need to think for themselves in their future endeavors,” she wrote.
As for the future of AI, Winans said she didn’t know where it was going, but added that students will ultimately dictate how the tool will be used. The situation is similar to when Wikipedia became popular, she said,
ai’s impact in the classroom
■ In public K-12 classrooms, 25 percent of teachers believe AI is doing more harm than good.
■ High school teachers view AI most negatively — unlike many middle school and elementary teachers.
■ Over 66 percent of American teens know of ChatGPT.
■ Nineteen percent of U.S. teens use ChatGPT for school work.
Pew Research Center, 2023 survey of the American Teacher Panel and KnowledgePanel teens
and everyone was nervous about where information was coming from. While Wikipedia presents a quick resource for information, Winans said, students still have to be able to seek out original sources.
“I think that there’s always a hesitation when a new technology moves forward,” she said. “And I think that there’s always a balance.”
The balancing factor, Winans said, is the importance of original thought, and students’ ability to produce something on their own.
“There’s also something exciting,” she said, “about having a tool that might further a student’s ability to explore something and get new ideas.”
Carol- ann Winans
Jim mendonis
‘Bring
your own bottle,’ fill up at hydration stations Town of Hempstead adds filtered water stations to various parks, thanks to grant funding
By JORDAN VALLONE
jvallone@liherald.com
Town of Hempstead parks just got a little bit greener.
Schools are out and the summer season is officially here, and last week the Town of Hempstead announced the addition of an eco-friendly water bottle refilling station at the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve, helping to reduce the number of plastic bottles discarded at the park while keeping residents hydrated.
Town Supervisor Don Clavin, who was joined by Town Clerk Kate Murray and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll, made the announcement on June 26.
The preserve is among the most popular recreational spaces in the Town of Hempstead. Tucked behind the town’s sanitation facilities off of Merrick Road, what is now a bustling preserve used to be a landfill, before it was transformed into a park in 2000. It boasts walking paths, kayak launches, fishing piers, a herd of Nigerian dwarf goats and more, and also has the highest summit on the South Shore of Long Island, offering those who visit the park panoramic views of Nassau County’s bays, beaches and more.
The park’s “roots” are in recycling, making it the perfect place for the first hydration station to be installed.
“We started seeing a heavy increase in foot traffic during the Covid-19 pandemic, as residents were looking for a safe activity to do outdoors,” Clavin said. “Attendance at the park continues to grow, so we continue to introduce new
The filtered water dispenser is located next to the Ranger Station at the base of the park. Thanks to grant funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, two more are coming to Newbridge Road Park and a preserve in
initiatives, such as this eco-friendly way to keep residents safe and hydrated while combating the rise of single-use plastic bottles discarded at the park.”
The installation of the hydration station was made possible through a Marine Debris grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in a bid to reduce the amount of plastic discarded in waterways. The grant was awarded to a network of recipients, according to town officials, from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean.
In recognition of World Refill Day on June 16, the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation shared a post on its Facebook page, stating that in
partnership with the New York Department of State, the Town of Hempstead and Sunken Meadow State Park in Kings Park, four water refill stations were purchased for popular parks on Long Island. This was thanks to the regional council, which supplied funding and planning for the project.
“This is a really good, green program,” Clavin said.
In a 2022 International Coastal CleanUp report, plastic bottles were listed as the second most collected item and plastic bottle caps were listed as the fourth most, town officials said. Since Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve is located next to Merrick Bay, discarded debris can end up in the waterways, which fun-
nel into the ocean.
Two additional hydration stations will be installed at Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore and the Marine Nature Study Area in Oceanside. The hydration stations, all of which provide filtered water free of charge, will be installed at these parks in the coming months, and will help cut down on marine debris by encouraging park patrons to utilize refillable water bottles over single-use bottles.
“This will be the first three, and we’re hoping to expand it through federal funding, as well as dedicated town funds at parks throughout the Town of Hempstead,” Clavin said. “We’re hoping our friends at the county level and other towns join us.”
Clavin said the town is “dedicated” to the environment and clean waterways.
“That’s one thing I see over and over, every initiative we do here in the town,” he said. “The town residents embrace it because they care.”
Clavin quelled any concerns about the water quality coming out of the hydration stations, stressing that it’s “clean, filtered water.”
“We want you to be comfortable making the investment in the environment,” he said, “so we’re making that investment for you.”
The hydration station at Levy Park is located on the left side of the ranger station, which is just outside of the preserve’s entrance in its parking lot.
For more information on the town’s parks and environmental efforts, visit HempsteadNY.gov and see the “Parks & Recreation” tab.
Jordan Vallone/Herald photos
There’s new hydration stations coming to Town of Hempstead parks, and last week Town Supervisor Don Clavin, joined by Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll and Town Clerk Kate Murray, unveiled the first one at the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve.
Towns threaten FAA with lawsuit over noise
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Standing in front of a Floral Park home and alongside Nassau County officials on July 3, Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin announced a joint petition against the Federal Aviation Administration on behalf of residents living near airports who constantly contend with the noise of low-flying planes and air pollution.
With both Kennedy and LaGuardia airports abutting residential neighborhoods, the air traffic has been a longstanding headache for homeowners.
The Towns of Hempstead and North Hempstead and county officials have filed a petition urging the FAA to study and explore alternative air routes. If the agency doesn’t respond to the petition within 90 days, the group, led by Clavin and North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jen DeSena, plans to file suit against it.
“Every 90 seconds, we get the pleasure of having planes flying anywhere from 3,000 to 2,000 feet over our heads,” Clavin said. “The FAA has taken the towns of North Hempstead and Hempstead for granted. Over a million residents are suffering the burden of constant flights coming over the area.”
The problem, according to Clavin and DeSena, is not just noise, but also the significant health risks posed by constant air traffic. Clavin detailed how
State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick joined county officials to announce a petition and potential lawsuit against the Federal Aviation Administration for excessive noise pollution at nearby airports.
low-flying planes contribute to increased levels of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and sulfur dioxide in the air in communities near the airports.
He also cited studies showing a 50 percent increase in flights since 2017, and pointed out that the FAA has not conducted the necessary environmental reviews mandated by the National Defense Authorization Act.
County officials retained legal counsel to draft a petition to the FAA, demanding compliance with existing regulations and a thorough environ -
mental review. Melville attorney Nick Rigano is spearheading the legal effort.
In a statement in response to the news conference, the FAA said, “Addressing this concern requires collaboration among the FAA, air carriers, airports, aircraft manufacturers, research universities, local communities and elected officials. If a community is concerned about aircraft noise, the best course of action is to contact their local aviation community roundtable or airport operator. The FAA can then work with airport operators to deter
mine if the aircraft noise can be mitigated through changes in air traffic procedures.”
At the gathering, U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito highlighted his legislative efforts to address the issue, including co-sponsoring bills aimed at mitigating air traffic noise and pollution.
“The FAA has been ignoring community concerns for far too long,” D’Esposito said. “We are working on legislative solutions, but the FAA has been non-responsive on the federal level as well. We need change, and we need it now.”
Floral Park resident Don Monroe, whose home was the site of the news conference, noted one way in which the noise of air traffic regularly impacts his life. “Sometimes I have to stop mid-conversation because the planes are so loud,” Monroe said.
While the issue is far from a new one, the officials’ message is clear: The time for patience has passed. With the TSA estimating over 315,000 noise complaints from residents of Hempstead and North Hempstead who live beneath JFK’s Flight Path 22 this year alone, those residents and officials are more than ready to demand immediate action.
“People expect this when they live in an area where they are near an airport, but not to this extent,” Clavin said. “The FAA must follow the rules and regulations. Enough is enough.”
Kepherd Daniel/Herald
Scholarship recipients received $1,000 to be used for college expenses. Juliet Cimaglia with her family and
East Meadow Kiwanis honors standout students
Recent high school graduates received $1,000 awards to be used for college expenses
The Kiwanis Club of East Meadow awarded its annual scholarships to recent graduates of the East Meadow Union Free School District at a scholarship night on July 2. A dinner and ceremony were held at Borrelli’s Italian Restaurant in East Meadow.
Graduates from both East Meadow High School and W.T. Clarke High School received scholarships.
Juliet Cimaglia, Patricia Rivas, Mahira Ahmed and Brianna Petz were among this year’s honorees. Each were presented with a $1,000 award, which can be used for college expenses.
Scholarship recipients are chosen for their extraordinary aca-
demic and community service achievements.
The mission of Kiwanis is to help kids around the world, and the East Meadow organization is making a difference at home.
Whether the club is cooking Thanksgiving dinners for those in need, sending children to Kamp Kiwanis or providing scholarships, it makes a difference in every part of the East Meadow community.
Those interested in joining can stop by their Tuesday night meetings at 7:15 p.m. Email KiwanisClubOfEastMeadow@gmail.com for more information.
–Jordan Vallone
Brittany Krilov/Herald photos
Kiwanis members at the dinner.
The scholarship recipients alongside the Kiwanis Club of East Meadow’s leadership and members.
The Kiwanis Club of East Meadow awarded scholarships to Juliet Cimaglia, Patricia Rivas, Mahira Ahmed and Brianna Petz at a dinner on July 2.
Kiwanis Secretary Donna Goldstein, President-Elect Melody Schiller, President Joe Parisi and Treasurer Brian O’Flagherty at the 2024 scholarship dinner.
STEPPING OUT
A great time -
The Empire State Fair is in full swing
By Danielle Schwab
Step right up, step right up! The Empire State Fair has returned with jaw-dropping rides, games and shows — welcoming all to enjoy some thrills at Nassau Coliseum. The summertime staple once again takes over the arena grounds, now through July 14.
As always, there’s plenty to see and do. Where else can you find farm animals, “pirate” acrobatics, a giant Ferris Wheel, and a transforming robot — all in one place?
This year, the swashbuckling, “Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean Thrill Show” takes to the tightrope in a fearless display of aerial highwire feats.
Alex Murcia, who’s involved with the acrobatic act as both a performer and owner of his family’s Sensational Murcia Productions, says the show, free with admission, is not to be missed.
“We took our strongest circus and thrill acts — the highwire tightrope walking and the Wheel of Death — and we created a pirate-themed production. So there’s sword fighting, good characters, bad characters, and they’re searching for the treasure map.”
You may even spot a mermaid. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a pirate thrill show without a hint of danger.
“All of that’s happening 25 feet in the air on a quarter-inch cable,” he adds.
The Murcia family goes back 10 generations of performers. This show is a tribute to their Colombian heritage.
“My father is from Colombia. It’s where they have the specialty act of high-wire tightrope walking performance,” Murcia says.
• Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale
• Now through July 14, 5-11 p.m. weekdays; noon-11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• $10 (free for kids under 36” tall with paying adult); unlimited ride wristbands (for riders 36” and taller) are $40 Friday - Sunday.
• Ride tickets are also available at the carnival for $1.50 each, $30/20 tickets, or $60/50 tickets plus 1 free ride (rides take 2 or more tickets each)
• More information available at EmpireStateFair.com
The many tricks are sure to elicit an enthusiastic response from fairgoers.
“The performers balance on chairs while on the high wire. They’ll stand up on the chair. People are like ‘wow, I can’t stand on a chair on the ground, and these guys are doing it up on the tightrope’,” he says.
Visitors can move from the high seas to high-tech with another Murcia family “wonder”: the Big Bee transforming robot car.
“It’s built to be like a life-size Camaro, but inside, instead of having seats, it has a system of hydraulics and different motors that make it lift and open up,” explains Murcia.
“The car goes up and down and transforms from what looks like a regular Camaro to a big, giant robot, Big Bee.”
The kids will want to stop by the Cowtown USA petting zoo run by the Sandlofer family. Here
L.I. International Film Expo
everyone can pet and feed animals that helped shape America, including some that are unexpected.
“We have a domedary camel, Henry. Few people know that camels played an important part in our history. They were part of building the Transcontinental Railroad going through the deserts where horses couldn’t go,” says Sadie Sandlofer, who helps run the family business.
Other animals to see include a Scottish Highlander cow, oxen, baby goats, and sheep. Families can even simulate “milking a cow” as part of the experience.
The carousel of activities also includes the Anastasini Circus, which has been entertaining audiences since 1877, along with a test of wits at the interactive Kidbucks Game Show. To end the day, fireworks light up the night sky on Saturdays.
And of course, the rides and delicious foods — staples of the fair experience — beckon.
“There’s so many attractions that if you went to go see these shows, you would pay more in (individual) admission than you do at the fair to see all of them. So I would say check the website, check the schedule, and obviously don’t miss the shows, because once you’re inside all those shows are free with admission. Take advantage of that,” reminds Murcia.
Grab your tickets, eat some funnel cake and catch the summer breeze. A day of adventure awaits.
Photos courtesy Empire State Fair From circus spectacle to daring side show acts and everyone’s favorite rides, plus new enticements, plenty of summer amusements are in store at the latest edition of the Empire State Fair.
Lights, camera, action. Bellmore rolls out the red carpet once again for the Long Island International Film Expo, now in its 27th year. LIIFE is proud to feature over 120 films, including 19 world premieres. From short to feature-length, moviegoers can partake of a diverse group of independent films. Special screenings of note include “Child Machine,” a fun sci–fi comedy; the thriller “Lady Of The Lake” about native Ronkonkoma’s Maria Capp, starring Seth Gilliam (“The Walking Dead”), Nia Sioux and Emery Kelly. Also enjoy Super Mega Trivia Slam trivia and the documentary on former New York State Assembleyman and longtime Long Beach resident Harvey Weisenberg, entitled “Harvey: The Voice for The Voiceless.”
Now through Sunday, July 14. Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore. Tickets and information available at LongIslandFilm.com.
Disco daze
Step into a time warp back to the glittering era of Studio 54 with The Disco Nights. Immerse yourself in a nostalgic celebration of the disco age. From the Bee Gees, to Gloria Gaynor, to Donna Summer, Chic, and so much more, it’s Saturday Night Fever all over again! Led by the Billboard-charting superstar JJ Sansaverino on guitar, The Disco Nights boast a lineup of top-tier musicians straight from the heart of New York City’s music scene. Every note is meticulously crafted to deliver the authentic sound of disco’s greatest hits. The band is joined by vocalists Alessandra Guercio, Jerome Bell and Adam Bastien of “American Idol” and “The Voice” fame. Dress to impress in your finest disco attire —think flared pants, crop tops, mini dresses, crystals, sequins, and psychedelic colors as the Paramount stage transforms into a glittering disco haven.
Friday, July 12, 8 p.m. $45, $35, $30, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
THE Your Neighborhood
July 19
Mike DelGuidice
Mike DelGuidice is forever known for his connection to Billy Joel.
One of Long Island’s most celebrated singer/songwriters continues his “residency” on the t Paramount stage, Friday and Saturday, July 19-20, 8 p.m.. Mike DelGuidice and his band always give it their all, especially when playing the iconic Billy Joel songs. DelGuidice leads his band, in a rousing concert that highlights the Piano Man’s decades of hits. Like his idol, DelGuidice has become one of the area’s most celebrated performers, balancing his schedule between doing his own thing and touring with Joel all over the world.
DelGuidice, as with Joel, grew up mastering several instruments including bass guitar, guitar, piano, and drums. He’s renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge of the Joel catalog, which caught the attention of Joel himself, who ultimately brought him on stage with him. DelGuidice and his band pack hit after chart-topping hit, along with his own tunes in a high energy show that’s always a crowd pleaser. He is the author of two albums “My Street” and “Miller Place” numerous single releases, which are currently under consideration for film soundtracks. And his tune “Ordinary Guy” is the theme song for the Kevin James sitcom, “Kevin Can Wait.” DelGuidice is always moving and grooving, with plenty of projects ahead. $60, $40, $25, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
July 11
Blessed By E Family Support
In honor of Eric Breslau, The Blessed By E Foundation is hosting a program to offer emotional and financial support to any grieving families at Crunch Fitness, East Meadow, on Thursday, July 11. 100 percent of donations will go to The Eric Breslau Blessed By E Foundation. Donate $25 or more to receive an exclusive Crunch Fitness T-shirt. With giveaways and raffles. 2501 Hempstead Turnpike. For more information, visit @BlessedBy_E on Instagram.
Alliance
MC Annual
Life Ride 2024
Alliance Motorcycle Club holds their annual Life Ride, at Eisenhower Park, Field #1, on Sunday, July 28, at noon. Event includes an escorted parade run and an after party with music, food, and raffles. Registration to join the ride costs $20. Proceeds benefit Phoenix House, a national nonprofit drug and alcohol rehabilitation organization. For more information, visit @ AllianceMCNY on Facebook.
In the garden
Enjoy the glorious grounds of Old Westbury Gardens and listen to some stirring sounds, with Old Westbury Gardens’ artist-in-residence Cross Island, Sunday, July 14, 3-4 p.m. Clarinetist Joseph Rutkowski, cellist Suzanne Mueller, and pianist Elinor Abrams Zayas open the annual summer series at The Barn. The program comprisea duets and trios spanning centuries and styles, seamlessly blending beloved favorites and intriguing discoveries. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.
Music Jingo
It’s All About The Kids, a charity devoted to feeding impoverished children, presents Music Jingo, a game that puts a fun spin on bingo by replacing bingo balls with songs, at La Novella on Sunday, July 14, starting 5:30 p.m. Admission costs $55 per person, which includes the materials required to play, a raffle ticket, buffet style dinner, cake and coffee. Seating is limited. To purchase tickets, contact Carmela at (917) 627-5871 or Maria at (516) 204-3091.
LI
Minority Millennials host over 1,200 youth at Nassau Coliseum for 2nd annual “We Are the Future Summit” powered by Sands NY to empower the next generation of change-makers
Minority Millennials, a nonprofit civic and youth development organization, hosted its 2nd annual "We Are the Future Summit," on Friday, May 31 at Nassau Coliseum. Powered by Sands NY, the summit featured an enriching lineup of groundbreaking sessions, keynote presentations from thought leaders, elected officials, and influencers.
Additionally, the event showcased live performances by the 80 member Uniondale Marching Band & Steppers, Uniondale Jazz Band and Hempstead High School graduate Rising HipHop Star Chow Lee, adding a dynamic cultural element to inspire and engage attendees.
As the title sponsor, Sands NY is integral to the summit, supporting a new initiative to create a diverse local talent pipeline through preapprenticeships and procurement opportunities connected to their proposal for a multi-billiondollar integrated resort at the Nassau Hub. This collaboration will enable Minority Millennials to further their mission of empowering young people of color with access to jobs, wealth building, and enhanced civic engagement.
Ron Reese, Senior Vice President of Global Communications and Corporate Affairs at Las Vegas Sands, added, "This partnership
who we are:
exemplifies our commitment to not only develop a world-class entertainment and hospitality facility but also to invest in the local workforce and community. We are excited to see how this summit will open doors for many young professionals across Long Island."
Dan Lloyd, Founder and President
of
Minority Millennials, highlighted the summit’s comprehensive approach: "We are thrilled to bring together an eclectic mix of culture, policy, and professional development at this year's summit. Alongside the inspiring talks and sessions, we will host a vibrant array of performances that reflect the cultural richness of our community."
Haugland Group and Vineyard Offshore led as Workforce Development and Clean Energy Sponsors, that helped to feature an extensive career fair, providing attendees the chance to connect with leading companies and organizations from emerging industries such as offshore wind, construction, manufacturing, and more. The career fair will include opportunities for on-the-spot job applications, interviews, and networking, helping to bridge the gap between Long Island’s youth and local economic opportunities.
Although entrepreneurship is popular with a lot of young people, Billy Haugland II said not to count out trade careers such as construction and touted the benefits of a union job. He’s CEO of Haugland Group in Melville, an infrastructure services holding company.
“The wages are typically 20- to-50 percent
Continued on page 4
The developer of a proposed multi-billion-dollar flagship hospitality and entertainment project on Long Island
Photo provided by Sands
Photo: On May 31, more than 1,200 people attended the “We Are the Future Summit” sponsored by Sands NY.
Las Vegas Sands and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund host 15 HBCU students for annual Immersive Las Vegas Experience
The Sands Hospitality Immersion Program aims to create pathways to careers in hospitality and tourism for students from historically Black colleges and universities.
Las Vegas Sands and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) hosted 15 students representing 10 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) from around the country in the second annual Sands Hospitality Immersion Program, June 16-22 in Las Vegas.
Sands and TMCF, the only national organization exclusively representing the Black college community, established the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program to encourage interest in travel, tourism and leisure by exposing HBCU students to the inner workings of the Las Vegas hospitality industry.
The 15 rising junior and senior students selected for the exclusive summer program include Joshua Lee, Alabama A&M University; Waneysha Louissaint, Bethune-Cookman University; Tori Carlisle, Coppin State University; Fatima Diallo, Eli Pearson, Salimah Scott and Morayo Adeyemi, Howard University; Mya Mendoza and Denise White-Scott, Morgan State University; Hizikiel Holloman and Trevor Elliott, North Carolina A&T State University; Christian Nettles, North Carolina Central University; Zora Cunningham, Tuskegee University; Malaysia Jones, Virginia Union University; and Darryl Quick, Jr., Winston-Salem University.
Students are studying a range of majors including business, computer science, communications, finance, hospitality management, information technology, marketing, sales and supply chain management. They will receive a deep introduction to the travel, tourism and leisure industry and its wide range of professional positions, to inspire them to consider one of the world’s fastest-growing and largest employment fields.
“As a sales and marketing major, this experience will help me to better understand customer engagement,” said Zora Cunningham, a Tuskegee University student and immersion program participant. “By understanding this crucial practice in hospitality, I can apply these strategies to broader marketing efforts. This experience will also help me build valuable connections, gain practical insights and develop a deeper appreciation for personalized service and attention to detail.”
The multi-day experience is being curated by the Harrah College of Hospitality’s Sands Center for Professional Development at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Program elements include on-campus learning sessions with college faculty, industry speakers and interactive activities such as a cooking competition led by the college’s executive chefs. Over the course of the program, student participants will receive special insider tours of integrated resorts, convention spaces and sports venues.
In addition, students will visit Sands’ corporate headquarters to hear from professionals who will outline their experience in a wide range of disciplines and provide insights into the realm of professional services within the hospitality industry.
The travel, tourism and leisure industry continues to experience tremendous job growth and encompasses many professional positions. Beyond traditional hospitality tracks in hotel operations or restaurants, meetings and venue management, the industry offers career opportunities in finance, marketing, sales, human resources, information technology, legal and
other professional service fields.
“The Sands Hospitality Immersion is a transformative initiative designed to give HBCU students unparalleled access and exposure to the dynamic field of hospitality. This program not only broadens their career horizons but also equips them with the essential skills and networks needed to thrive in a competitive industry. By fostering a deeper understanding of hospitality, we are empowering the next generation of leaders to drive innovation and excellence in this vital sector,” said Tristin Rainey, senior manager of learning and talent at TMCF. Sands established the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program as part of the Sands Cares global community engagement program. It is one of the company’s many education and workforce development initiatives, which include contributions to and partnerships with higher education institutions, funding for scholarship programs, on-property and industry-supported training opportunities for students and hospitality professionals, and mentorship and instruction from company leaders and experts. “The Sands Hospitality Immersion Program advances two of our core initiatives – helping to build a highly skilled, diverse workforce in the hospitality industry and fostering opportunities and advancement for young people from traditionally underrepresented groups,” said Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate affairs, who spearheads corporate responsibility initiatives at Sands. “We hope this unique experience will inspire this talented group of students to consider the many opportunities the hospitality industry offers.”
Sands New York honored by United Way
Over 600 people turned out to the United Way’s 2024 “United in Purpose” Gala, where Sands New York was honored as the Corporate Impact Champion. To introduce the award, the organization showed a video of Theresa Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island driving with Former New York State Governor and Sands Senior Vice President David Paterson.
The segment included a conversation with two United Way beneficiaries, Matthew Knoblock, an alumni of United Way’s Power Up! Program, which led him to his position with PSEG Long Island; and Jennefer Maldonado, who received a DREAMS Scholarship to help get her through her college education, leading to her career with Brookhaven National Laboratory. Both Matt and Jennefer thanked United Way and Sands New York for the support they received as they pursued academic and professional goals.
Sands Senior Vice President Ron Reese was on site to accept the award, praising the United Way’s
work in the Long Island community. “Sands New York is proud to partner with United Way to help provide critical assistance for families and individuals throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties.”
Sands New York celebrates PRIDE Month with the LGBT Network
On June 9, 2024 the Sands New York team joined the LGBT Network to celebrate PRIDE on Long Island. The event, held annually in Huntington, drew in more people than ever before making it the largest Long Island Parade ever, according to organizers thousands turned out to celebrate the LGBTQ+ and allies of the community and to enjoy a variety of vendor booths, live music, food trucks, games and entertainment, and fun for everyone.
“Sands has a proud history of supporting, employing and welcoming those within the LGBTQ+ community, and we are extremely proud to partner with the LGBT Network to celebrate June as PRIDE month,” said Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer for Sands New York. “If built, the proposed Sands New York project will carry on our legacy of equity and opportunityand it will be a space where every Long Islander
can feel safe and free to be their full authentic selves.”
Sands was a platinum sponsor of the event and managed several booths within the festival area, where they spoke to festival-goers and handed out water bottles, frisbees and lip balm.
LI TODAY
more than a job that’s not unionized, and there’s health care, retirement benefits. …” Haugland said. “It can give you the stability to let your entrepreneurial passions rise.”
“Clean energy not only preserves our environment for future generations, but it holds immense potential for sustainable and equitable career paths for youth and people early in their careers,” said Andrea Bonilla, Senior Manager of External Affairs at Vineyard Offshore. “We are proud to partner with Minority Millennials to help make this clean energy future a reality.”
Founded in 2017, Minority Millennials, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to bridging the gap between policy and culture. Their mission is to help young people of color access, jobs, build wealth and become civically engaged.
Sands returns to East Meadow Day 2024
The East Meadow Community turned out in droves to celebrate East Meadow Community Day this year. The annual event is organized by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to give back to the community.
The Sands New York Team joined in as a sponsor, providing refreshments, enjoying the music and reveling in the spirit of giving back. The team joined in on the pie-eating contest and the color run, and supplied a face painter to add to the messy fun!
Ted Rosenthal, East Meadow Community Day 2024 Chairperson said, “Thank you to the Sands team for once again supporting our East Meadow Community Day, now in our 34th year. Not only did they bring an unlimited supply of refreshments but ensuring that the sound system reached all of our participants was a tremendous asset. We were thrilled that you joined us in what was our best Community Day yet.”
Dramatic Play
Theatre Playground returns to Long Island Children’s Museum with “Dramatic Play!,” Monday, July 15, 1 p.m., taught by Lisa Rudin, Director of Theatre Playground. In this interactive, theater-inspired workshop, children will act out an original story and help choose how it unfolds. Music, props, and sound effects create a theatrical world where participants are immersed in the story.
Children are encouraged to express themselves as they create characters, explore different worlds, stretch their imaginations and build self-confidence.This week’s theme: Silly Monsters! Costumes encouraged. $5 with museum admission. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.
Watermelon 5k
Participate in the tastiest race of the summer, The Watermelon 5k, at Eisenhower Park Field 2, on Sunday, July 14, 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Enjoy snacks and drinks at the end of the race courtesy of All Round Foods and Waterloo Sparkling Water. Tickets cost $30 to participate. Proceeds benefit the Never Stop Running Foundation. Call (516) 531-3323 for more information.
Afternoon tunes
Visit Eisenhower Park’s Field #1 for its Noontime Concert series, Wednesday, July 17, noon-2 p.m. Relax and enjoy the styling of vocalist-dancer Louis Del Prete, known as the “ultimate entertainer.” Bring seating. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
Psychic Dinner
Long Island Psychics offers oneon-one private readings over dinner at the East Meadowbased Italian Restaurant La Novella, Tuesday, July 23, at 6:30 p.m. $75 per person, includes both the reading and a full dinner, consisting of salad, pasta, an entree, and a dessert. 364 E. Meadow Ave. For reservations, call (516) 794-6248. For more information, call or text Brenda Lee at (516) 4441975.
Having an event?
Bingo at Beth-El
Get your game on at a weekly bingo game at East Meadow Beth-El Jewish Center starting at 6 p.m. Prizes, progressive games, bell jar prizes and refreshments will be provided. Proof of vaccination is required. 1400 Prospect Ave., in East Meadow. For information, contact (516) 4834205.
Pet Adoption Program
Adopt your “fur-ever” friend this summer. There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during the ”summer of love” at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. Now through Sept. 1, all pet adoption fees are waived and include free spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. There is a $10 license fee for dogs. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cats before stepping foot in the shelter online at HempsteadNY. gov/179/Animal-Shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page at Hempstead Town Animal Shelter. For more information, contact (516) 785-5220.
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.
On exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition “Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media. It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority.
Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. It opens July 20 and is on view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
St. Raphael Parish Line Dancing
St. Raphael Parish invites all to an afternoon of dance and exercise at St. Raphael’s School Auditorium, Saturday, July 20, 1-4 p.m. Admission costs $7. Proceeds benefit St. Raphael Parish. Light refreshments will be served. 600 Newbridge Road. For more information, call Maria Coz at (516) 781-9003 or Jane Asuncion at (516) 640-0066.
Fire Fest
Support your local volunteer fire and EMS first responders while enjoying free unlimited beer sampling at East Meadow Fire Department’s Fire Fest at Fire Station 4, Saturday, July 13, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. With over 25 craft breweries, top food trucks, axe throwing, music, games, and more. $50 before June 30; $60 after. Must be 21 or over to attend. Bob Reed Lane at Carman Ave. For further information, visit @firefestemfd on Instagram or Facebook.
D.A. looking into parkway dog abandonment
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
She was left alone, tied to a light pole on the westbound Southern State Parkway, near Exit 21, in Uniondale.
All she had was a water bowl, and a note that read, “This is Roxi. A trained American Bullmastiff. She is four years old. She has been fed and given a flea bath, she may still have issues with them. See that she gets good care.”
Roxi, later more accurately identified as an English mastiff, was abandoned on the parkway on the morning of July 1. State troopers retrieved her after responding to a call reporting a dog tied to a pole at around 5:30 a.m. They dropped her off at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh, where she was examined by veterinarians who found her to be hungry and underweight, but otherwise in good health.
“She’s nervous, but she’s very sweet,” Ashley Behrens, the acting director of the shelter, said. “Obviously it’s traumatic what she went through, so nervousness is to be expected.”
Now Roxi is looking for a home, and law enforcement officers are looking for whoever left her on the side of the road.
“We’re going to find a home for this dog and, working with our Nassau D.A., we’re going to find these culprits and hold them accountable,” Town Supervi-
sor Don Clavin said at a July 3 news conference outside the shelter.
Joining Clavin were county District Attorney Anne Donnelly and State Police Capt. Timothy Gleason. Donnelly said that her office and investigators were working with State Police to help find the person who abandoned Roxi, adding that anyone who recognized her should contact the State Police or the D.A.’s office.
The charges, according to Donnelly, could include abandoning an animal, a misdemeanor, or aggravated cruelty, a felony.
“Where we are able, we will prosecute them aggressively,” she said.
Dog abandonment is not uncommon, Donnelly noted, but what happened to Roxi was especially dangerous, because the Southern State is one of the most heavily traveled, and treacherous, highways on Long Island.
“It is no place to abandon a 4-year-old puppy,” Donnelly said. “It is unacceptable, and leaving a note with well wishes just doesn’t cut it. There is no excuse for dumping a dog on the side of a major highway.”
Gleason said that if Roxi had broken away from her leash, she would have put herself and motorists on the parkway in harm’s way. He added that people can fall on hard times, leaving them unable to afford to care for a pet, but abandoning an animal beside a highway is nei -
ther acceptable nor a safe option.
“While it appears that the owner may have had good intentions,” Gleason said, “if a person is unable to care for a dog, there are better ways of handling such a situation.”
Donnelly explained that dog owners who cannot continue to care for their pets should take them to an animal shelter or a veterinarian’s office, which will help find them a new home.
“Any of those options are better than tying a defenseless creature to a pole on a roadway where cars are going 60 miles an hour past it,” she said.
Donnelly added that Long Island is now experiencing the hottest weather of the year, when pets should not be left outside for extended periods, or in hot cars. A few minutes in a hot vehicle in extreme high temperatures, she said, can be deadly for an animal.
“Leaving an animal to bake in the sun is nothing short of cruel,” Donnelly said.
While Roxi’s situation was heartwrenching, Clavin said he had seen good come from the incident. The town had received over 50 phone calls, locally and from as far away as California and Washington, from people looking to adopt or find a home for her.
“With the tragedy of what’s happened, you do see the goodness of people,” Clavin said. “You see the goodness of people who want to find a loving
FREE CONCERTS
JULY 15TH 7:00PM-9:00PM
Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch
Southern State Parkway on July 1. The Town of Hempstead and Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly are investigating.
home for this animal.”
The investigation was continuing at press time, and anyone with information was encouraged to call the State Police, at (631) 756-3300. Gleason said that callers could remain anonymous.
NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!
Charles Shaw/Herald Roxi, a 4-year-old English mastiff, was abandoned on the
EAST MEADOW FIRE DEPARTMENT
As people are grilling, using fire pits, and maintaining pools, the East Meadow Fire Department provides tips to ensure residents have a safe summer.
East Meadow F.D. encourages a safe summer with these tips
Summer is in full swing, bringing more outdoor activities such as backyard grilling, enjoying fire pits, swimming, and yard maintenance with chores like mowing and trimming. To enjoy a safe summer, the East Meadow Fire District commissioners remind residents that fires and accidents can occur anytime. They offer the following tips to keep yourself, your family, and your home safe.
For grilling, keep your grill clean by removing grease from the grills and putting it in trays below the grill. Place the grill at least six feet away from the home, deck railings, and under eaves and overhanging tree branches. Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the grilling area. If using charcoal, only use charcoal starter fluid and never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Never leave your grill unattended when in use.
When it comes to fire pits, keep backyard recreational fires under three feet in diameter and two feet high. Outdoor fire pits should be confined to a permanent outdoor fire ring, a portable fireplace, or a commercially designed chiminea. Residents are urged to install a screen to prevent burning embers from escaping and potentially causing a fire. Have a garden hose, fire extinguisher, or five-gallon bucket of water nearby while having an outdoor fire.
For swimming pool chemical safety, store pool chemicals in compliance with local or state building and fire codes. Store pool chemicals below 95 degrees and as recommended by the manufacturer. Protect stored pool chemicals from getting wet and from mixing with other substances. Keep pool chemicals away from heat sources and flames, and maintain good housekeeping by keeping the chemical storage area neat and orderly.
Regarding fireworks safety, note that fireworks are illegal in New York. Public fireworks displays produced by professional pyrotechnic companies are the
Public Notices
best and safest way to enjoy these dazzling displays. Sparklers may seem harmless but burn at about 2,000 degrees — hot enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet.
For gasoline storage safety, store gasoline only in approved containers, such as a plastic gas can with a built-in spout. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent or fuel for kerosene heaters or lamps, and never mix gasoline with kerosene or diesel. Only store gasoline outside the home, in a detached garage or shed. Keep gasoline containers at room temperature and store them at least 50 feet from heat sources, such as a space heater, electrical generator, or furnace. When pouring gasoline into a lawn mower or other gasoline-powered tool, do so slowly and carefully to avoid spillage. Do not attempt to fill an engine that has been running and is hot since gasoline vapors are highly flammable and can ignite easily.
In case of a fire or medical emergency, call the East Meadow Fire Department directly at (516) 542-0576. For more safety tips, visit EastMeadowFD.com and click the “Fire Safety” tab.
The East Meadow Fire Department, which covers East Meadow and parts of Levittown and Salisbury is always looking for new members to join their ranks as firefighters or emergency medical personnel. No experience is necessary, as the fire department provides the required training.
There are numerous benefits are associated with volunteering, including tax breaks, college scholarships, annual health checkups, life insurance, and a service award pension program, all at no cost.
For more information on volunteering with the East Meadow Fire Department, visit the department’s website or call (516) 542-4565.
–Jordan Vallone
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ALCIDES P. RODRIGUES, Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 8, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 23, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 60 Bright Street, Westbury, NY 11590. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Westbury, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 10, Block 309 and Lot 36. Approximate amount of judgment is $382,093.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609877/2023. 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.
Wayne H. Wink, Jr., Esq., Referee
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 231979-1 147534
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
-againstROBERT DYCKMAN, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on December 16, 2014, wherein FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is the Plaintiff and ROBERT DYCKMAN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on July 23, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1939 LINCOLN AVENUE, EAST MEADOW, NY 11554; and the following tax map identification: 50-536-20. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN EAST MEADOW, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 011136/2013. Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 147532
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, -againstADAN SALGUERO, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on November 16, 2022, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST is the Plaintiff and ADAN SALGUERO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on July 30, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 740 BARRY PLACE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553; and the following tax map identification: 50-360-23. 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 Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 613459/2019. Mark Ricciardi, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 147664
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 45-2024 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 18th, 2024, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the
proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 45-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 45-2024, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: June 18, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 147890
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 44-2024
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 18th, 2024 , by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 44-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 44-2024, amending Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.
Dated: June 18, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 147886
Courtesy Metro
CSC Holdings, LLC seeks a Lead Software Developer to design and manage settop box (STB) main software stack in various languages including HTML, Javascript, CSS, Bash and Python. Collaborate with other leads and architects to manage and design software integration in the STB stack. Develop video front-end components such as UI and Middleware. Design STB diagnostic tools and implement methods for troubleshooting. Provide technical and professional guidance to more junior team members. #LI-DNI Position requires a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related field, and 5 years of experience with software development, including analyzing user requirements and defining functional specifications. Experience must include a minimum of: 5 years of experience with converting business requirements into functional and application system design documents; 5 years of experience participating in effective design, development and testing phases of project implementation; 5 years of experience with Java technologies; 5 years of experience with HTML 5 technologies, including CSS and JavaScript; 5 years of experience with Bash or Python; 5 years of experience developing with Linux; 5 years of experience working with backend and embedded systems; 2 years of experience in ADB, web debugging, and GCC debugging; and 2 years of experience with set-top box development. Part-time telecommuting may be permitted. Job location: Bethpage, NY. Rate of Pay: $169,229.00 – $179,229.00 per year. To apply, please visit https://www.alticecareers.com, and enter Job Requisition ID 6144. Alternatively, please send your résumé, cover letter, and a copy of the ad to: Altice USA, Attn: Erin M. Berry, One Court Square West, Long Island City, NY, USA 11101. Altice USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting, hiring and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds regardless of gender, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. Altice USA, Inc. collects personal information about its applicants for employment that may include personal identifiers, professional or employment related information, photos, education information and/or protected classifications under federal and state law. This information is collected for employment purposes, including identification, work authorization, FCRAcompliant background screening, human resource administration and compliance with federal, state and local law.
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must.
Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma NYS License Clean 3 Years
$20 - $25/ Hour Call 516-731-3000
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com
FULL TIME - PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE Garden City Childcare Center Immediate Start $16-$22 per hour Call 516-572-7614
HANDYPERSON WANTED
Immediate Opening at our Garden City Location DESIRED SKILLS: Electrical * Welding * Carpentry Mechanical * Plumbing Part Time/Fulltime (benefits available with full time) $18-$30 per hour based on experience Richner Communications, Inc 2 Endo Blvd Garden City, NY 11530 Send resume to careers@lixtherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 ext 211
The Merrick Before/After School Program is hiring for the 2024-25 school year.
We require mature individuals to provide quality childcare to elementary school aged children between the hours of 2:30pm to 6:00pm weekdays. Minimum 3 afternoons per week Experience helpful Competitive hourly wage
If interested email merrickbasp@aol.com or Call (516)379-4245.
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MERRICK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT
OUTSIDE SALES
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PERSONNEL CLERK/ ACCOUN T CLERK ASSISTANT. $20-$23 per hour. 17 hours per week. Monday and Tuesdays 9:30-3:30. (remaining shift TBD w/ candidate) Occasional Saturday may be required depending upon payroll schedule Duties include Payroll, Benefits Administration, assisting Account Clerk. Necessary skills: Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, strong math skills. Email resume to jkoenig@islandparklibrary.org
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Software Engineer: Analyze, Design, Develop, Maintain, Test complex full-stack software solutions leveraging Java technologies, UI/UX designs, Angular, React, Express, JavaScript, JSF, Couchbase, Node JS, SQL Server, Mongo DB, Cassandra, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Cloud Security, Agile, CI/CD pipelines, Microservices, SOAP and REST API, Graph QL, Kubernetes, TDD, BDD, CQRS Pattern, Kafka, JMeter, Mockito, Selenium, AI, Machine Learning. Requires: Travel within the USA + Bachelors in Computer Science, Applied Computer Science, Engineering, Technology Management / Information Technology min. 36 Months experience. Salary $115,918. Send resume by mail to: American Software Resources, Inc., 4 Brower Avenue, Suite 4, Woodmere, NY 11598
Oceanfront Beauty
CEDARHURST NO FEE Private EnModern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978
LYNBROOK: 2 BR, 1 Bath, Second Floor, Off Street Parking, No Pets, $3,100. 516-599-3174
WANTAGH 1 BEDROOM, Full Kitchen, Full Bath, Livingroom/Kitchen Combo, No Smoking No Pets. $1650. 516-731-3763.
ROCKVILLE CENTRE SUNNY Private Entrance,Walk In Closet, Walking Distance South Nassau Hospital, Share Bath, 516-913-0804.
Enjoy the fresh salt air in this magnificent home right on the oceanfront. Amazing views of the Atlantic abound from private decks on all 3 levels, including one right off the primary suite, one on the main level and one right at beach level. The primary suite features a fireplace and a brand new bathroom with radiant heat flooring, and there
BETH DAVID CEMETERY: Elmont, NY.
3 Plots. Separate Or All Together. Graves 18, 25, and 32. Purchase Separate $3999; Purchase Together $9999. Negotiable. Call 845-641-7316
ONE BURIAL PLOT FOR SALE at Beth David’s in Elmont. Asking for $6,500. Please contact Michele Flanigan at 518-546-9550
HIRING?
Place Your Ad in the Herald Help Wanted Classifieds. Call 516-569-4000, press 5 to speak to an Account Executive.
kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Spacious home conveniently located in the heart of Elmont. Ideally situated on 50x118 lot, perfect for multi-generational living.
Taft Avenue. 2 Story. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Large living room with vaulted ceiling, 2 skylights and fireplace. Attic for storage. Legal 2 family. Side yard with additional backyard. Covered front porch and back terrace.
Taxes: $14,658.97
Merrick $1,465,000
Northridge Avenue. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Walk out basement. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with waterfall island with second sink and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor bedroom.
Oceanside $720,000
Foxhurst Road. Hi Ranch. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Custom eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Ensuite master bedroom walk-in closet. First floor bedroom. Updates include new roof and windows, central air conditioning. Large property. Convenient location near shopping, restaurants and Silver Lake Park.
Decker Street. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. New kitchen. 60x100 lot. Convenient location in heart of Valley Stream close to all amenities and park. Taxes: $10,787.24
Woodmere $1,230,000
E. End. Split Level. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor bedroom. Guest quarters. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight. Taxes: $20,131.29
Permits?
What permits?
Q. I read your column all the time and am aware that you always recommend getting permits, but I realize that nobody around me has one for any of the things you mention, and I want to put in a low deck, just two steps off the ground. It seems like a lot of extra expense to have plans and pay for a permit, especially because my neighbors have a two-story deck, a hot tub and a pool and no permits. I’m weighing this out because I wonder if a building inspector will notice everyone else’s work and catch them. I don’t want to be the one they all suspect of being the tattletale. What advice can you give?
A. Yes, by law, we are obligated to do any work in the prescribed legal manner, which, as licensed professionals, includes informing people that they are required to follow building codes, zoning restrictions and general law. Anything else would be aiding someone in the commission of a crime. It would be like asking your attorney to advise you in the planning of a bank robbery, even though that is probably an extreme example. It is still a crime, too.
Your proposed deck seems simple enough, but may be full of problems if not built to code, including not putting in the right depth footings, the correct connections or the correct structure. I once had a situation with an examiner who insisted that the main support beam — sitting on the ground, no less — didn’t pass the test of calculations as a main beam. (Yes, they actually check the strength of beams, in some cases by doing their own calculations.) The owner was appalled that the beam, sitting right on the ground, wouldn’t pass. The examiner explained that the beam has to be supportive on its own, in case the ground washes out from underneath.
I know that you just want to hire someone you assume knows all the rules, but I can tell you that I spend 50 percent of my time trying to undo or rethink how to solve a bad decision by someone who guessed that what they were doing would be all right. This usually happens when no plans were done by a professional, and there was no review, and the owner is desperate to get through a process either because they got caught or have a sale pending, awaiting this problem to be solved.
Check to see if your jurisdiction is one that lets you draw the plans yourself, because the deck is so close to the ground and under the 3-foot limit that requires a professional. As for the inspector, I can only recommend that you follow the procedures. The inspector has to follow their best judgment. Many have told me they generally only respond to complaints, and that they often don’t issue violations unless the problem is really obvious, and not one where they’re thought to be peeking over fences. Good luck!
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
YARD SALE 129 East Walnut St, Long Beach. Every Thursday-Sunday from June 27-July 28, 12-5pm. Something for everyone, kids and adults.
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HANDYMAN
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opinions
Like President Reagan said, trust but verify
iconfess that once you’re in your 80s, you suffer from a variety of ills, major and minor. I’m lucky that the major ones are under control and that I am happily dealing only with a few minor ones, such as an arthritic knee. It’s that knee that triggers this discussion about knees, and fantasies.
A few weeks ago, I crossed paths with an old friend from my Long Beach days. He noticed me limping down a nearby flight of stairs and asked about my health. I told him that I was dealing with the pain of arthritis in the knee, and was undergoing some treatment. I thought that was the end of the discussion until two weeks later, when I met a friend who happens to be in the same business as my old Long Beach buddy.
The first words out of his mouth were, “I heard you were in a wheelchair because of some knee issue.” I assured
him that the rumor was just that, but for that instant I felt sorry for President Biden, who on a daily basis is dealing with these types of gross exaggerations. In my case, my ailments will in no way interfere with my political career, because it is long gone. But poor Biden must deal with this stuff and it isn’t funny.
In the course of one week — well before last week’s debate with Donald Trump — Biden had to face multiple false claims about his sanity, made by a political underground that thrives on destroying reputations to help Trump.
By now, the much-heralded first presidential debate will have taken place, so I am in no position to have handicapped that event to determine who came off the worst. I leave that decision to the political pundits.
J
oe Biden has had to face multiple false claims about his sanity. And Trump?
During his trip to Normandy, France, to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Biden, surrounded by European officials, left the group to greet some paratroopers, and the opposition cropped his photo and claims he wandered off in some type of lost moment.
In another photo of the president that got the attention of the opposition, he stood in a crowd swaying to music, and because he didn’t sway, he must have be caught in some type of moment.
Which leads me to the case of Trump. In recent weeks he has made more than his share of missteps, but somehow his acolytes can see no wrong. He can rant endlessly about washing machines, electric submarines and sharks and it attracts no criticism from his supporters. He recalls beating President Barack Obama in the 2016 election and his defenders claim it’s just Donald being Donald.
He recently spoke about getting migrants to take part in a “migrant league of fighters,” and suggested that the champion might beat the champion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. His remarks do bring back memories of his involvement in the World Wrestling Federation, which became World Wresting Entertainment, but that’s just more word salad from the
master word chef.
Trump’s repeated call for Biden to take the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, which Trump claims he “aced,” are totally off base, because, according to Dr. Daniela Lamas of Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, it isn’t an aptitude test, but rather a screening test for dementia or other cognitive decline. Picking out a whale a dog or a cow doesn’t reflect genius.
There are countless other examples of the gotchas that the candidates can roll out to cut the legs off of their opponents. Some observers claim that Trump’s missteps far outweigh and outnumber Biden’s. To his credit, Biden has not taken on the strange Trump antics, leaving that to the media police.
We still have months to go before Nov. 5, so for now, don’t swallow everything you see on the political scene. In the words of the great President Ronald Reagan, “Trust, but verify.”
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.
Cars, vintage and new, test the young and old
This story is true. The names have been changed to protect the innocent, the guilty and the woefully inexperienced. That’s because I’m related to all the players and, in fact, am a character in the story myself.
Please don’t judge.
As you may know, since you were probably a teenager yourself at some point, there comes a time, after your last Big Wheel, after driver’s ed and before your brain matures, when you want to drive. You burn with the desire to hit the road.
RAnDi KREiss
In our family, it has been a tradition to help the younger generation get their first cars. Our son got our old Oldsmobile when he was 17, which he drove without incident — except for the very first day, when he got out at a railroad crossing to check a tire and forgot to put the car in park. He got lucky.
Next, we gave our daughter our aging powder-blue Chevy Nova, but she refused to drive the “Mom car” any-
where she might be seen. The shame of it was too much. They grew up. They got smart. They had kids of their own.
Some weeks ago, as one of the grandkids approached their time to hit the road, a related party, not to be named, gifted said child with a fancy-shmancy automobile so that they “would be safe” on the road, you know, surrounded by tons of metal. First day out, the kid stopped at a light and another driver slammed into them, totaling the car, but thankfully causing no injuries. It was a traumatic launch to a driving career.
out to find where the kid was stuck, realized the problem, and explained: Cars of a certain vintage had hand brakes that had to be released. Brake was released. Car moved. Problem solved.
W hat we learned: Don’t get your emergency driving tips from Instagram.
Said teen now had no car, and needed to get to school and sports and such. So we stepped up and gave the kid our 15-year-old Honda sedan — not very cool, not fancy, but a helpful gift for which the teen was grateful.
We drove our two cars to our son’s home, turned the Honda over to the grandchild and watched as they drove off for the inaugural ride. A half hour later they called to say the car was stuck, making groaning noises and lights were blinking. My husband drove
That night, second time out with the Honda, the grandkid, who was sleeping at a friend’s house, called home at 2 a.m. and told their dad the teens at the sleepover had decided to go out for pizza at midnight. Again, the car was dead. Had the teen left the lights on? We’ll never know.
But teen and friends, ever resourceful, looked up what to do on Instagram, and read that you can push a car down the road and it will start. Somehow, in the magical world of automotive miracles, the engine will just engage.
But that wasn’t what happened. Because it can’t happen with an automatic transmission. They pushed the car down the road and it didn’t start, but it did take off like a rocket and crashing into another car that belonged to one of the other kids’ parents.
Major damage.
Full confessions and remorse all
around. We realized we had some responsibility for not giving the grandkid a lesson in how to drive an old car with no automatic anything. Contrition abounded, and financial arrangements were made for kids to pay for damages from their jobs. For the next decade. Remarkably, none of the adults stroked out.
Next day, still visiting our son, I had no car to drive to the market, so he gave me the key to his new fancy-shmancy automobile. I opened the door and slid behind the wheel, and that’s where my outing ended. The seat and mirrors started adjusting themselves, and I had no idea where to stick the key, how to turn on the car, or what the humming noise was telling me. I couldn’t even find the A.C. This car was so space-age that, for me, it was functionally undrivable.
Is there something to learn from this? Not much, I guess, except that no one, young or old, should get behind the wheel of an automobile unless they know how to start, stop, turn on the lights, and put it in park. Also, if the car is older than 10, mind the handbrake. And never, ever get your emergency driving tips from Instagram.
Copyright 2024 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
JERRY KREMER
HeraLd editoriaL
Summer brings a greater risk of fires
With summer in full swing, Long Islanders are enjoying warm, sunny weather and creating memories with barbecues, lazy afternoons by the pool and gatherings of family and friends.
Summer weather, however, also brings an increased risk of fires. Whether it’s a backyard grill or a campfire, fire hazards are more prevalent at this time of year, which is why it’s critical to be aware of fire safety practices.
Barbecuing is one of the most popular summertime activities, but grilling outdoors can pose risks if not done properly. Use common sense and fire up propane, charcoal or wood pellet grills outside only — and resist the urge to do so in a garage, even with the garage door open — to avoid any possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning. Grilling should be done a safe distance from your home, deck railings or any overhanging tree branches, and you should maintain a three-foot safe zone around the grill to keep kids and pets safe.
Make sure your grill is on a level, stable surface to prevent tipping. Never leave a lit grill unattended, and keep a close eye on what’s cooking, especially when there are children or pets nearby. After the meal, when using charcoal,
Letters
We need to realize what we’ve got, or it’ll be gone
To the Editor:
This year, patriotism plays a larger role than ever before in my life. The events of Jan. 6, 2021, and the radical Supreme Court made me realize how fragile our democracy really is. Funny, but just like life. You take relationships for granted. You don’t realize how good you have it until they’re gone. Same thing with our constitutional democratic republic.
The Greatest Generation understood that. Thousands went to Normandy to fight for democracy abroad. In contrast, we sound like spoiled brats who don’t appreciate the freedoms our ancestors fought and died for. Some want a dictator in office, a “unified Reich,” as a Trump video suggested. I fear, as does the entire world, that we may no longer be that “city on a hill.” That unpatriotic Americans either do not understand what is at stake, or want the authoritarian regime that Donald Trump promises to rule. Now, substantial immunity and the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 would give a president free reign to destroy the American experiment.
I want my grandchildren to grow up with the same freedoms my parents came to this
once the coals have cooled, put them in a metal can with a lid.
It’s important to clean your grill to prevent a buildup of grease, which can lead to flare-ups and larger grease fires. In case of a grease fire, don’t attempt to put it out with water. The best method is to cover the flame with a metal lid to eliminate the oxygen that fuels it. If a lid isn’t handy, two other alternatives you can reach for to help douse a grease fire are baking soda and salt.
Fireworks are a quintessential part of summertime fun, but they are also extremely dangerous — and illegal in the hands of private citizens. They are also one of the leading causes of summer fires and injuries, as many of us read and heard last weekend, as we do after every Fourth of July. Instead of putting yourself, your family or your friends at risk, attend a public fireworks display conducted by professionals.
Fire pits are another summertime tradition. In your backyard, proper fire safety practices are essential. Check for local regulations on the legality of fire pits, and obtain a permit if you risk violating them.
Keep the fire in a fire pit small and manageable, and clear the area around
it of anything flammable, including leaves, dry grass and extra firewood. Never leave a fire unattended, and before you go inside for the night, make sure the fire is completely extinguished by pouring water or sand on it and stirring the ashes until they are cold to the touch.
Check the weather forecast the day you’re planning to use a fire pit, and if there’s any mention of wind, wait for another night. Flying embers can endanger other parts of your property, to say nothing of your house, or your neighbors’ homes.
Finally, summer heat can also increase the risk of fires in your home. Test your smoke alarms, and replace their batteries if needed. Make sure fire extinguishers are accessible and in good working order. Avoid overloading electrical outlets with air conditioners, fans and other seasonal appliances, and don’t run extension cords under rugs or furniture. Outside, trim trees and shrubs regularly, and dispose of yard waste properly.
Common-sense precautions will go a long way when it comes to preventing fires and ensuring that your summer activities will be memorable for all the right reasons. Be safe this season.
country for. They appreciated the rule of law, the right to vote, the Constitution and all the freedoms that came along with it. Love of country matters now. Patriotism matters. They say fascism will come draped in an upside-down American flag and carrying a cross. I hope that most Americans still
believe in decency and democracy. I hope we celebrated our love of this country on July Fourth, and never take it for granted again!
CLAUDIA BORECKY
Only our police officers should be doing police work
on June 25, my classmates and I became the latest class of graduates from the Nassau County Police Department Foundation’s Civilian Police Academy — a program I encourage all Nassau residents to enroll in.
Although I have been involved with many aspects of the criminal justice system during my legal career as a Queens County assistant district attorney and as a private practitioner, the academy was an eye-opening and enlightening experience that I believe would give any Nassau resident vital insights into the daily activities of our law enforcement professionals.
Starting on March 7 and continuing every Thursday evening from 7 to 10 p.m., we delved into key aspects of criminal procedure and penal law as well as the department’s policies governing the use of force. Guest speakers from various units presented to our class of civilian students, giving us first-hand insights into the operations of the Detectives Squad, the Bomb Squad, the K-9, horseback mounted and aviation units and more; demonstrations included the
Laura Gillen employs the usual euphemisms
To the Editor:
Reading Laura Gillen’s pro-abortion op-ed, “I’m running to fight for women’s freedoms” (June 27-July 3), I’m struck by the question of why we use such euphemisms when it comes to abortion. “Women’s freedoms,” “Reproductive health care,” “bodily autonomy.” Is it possible that, deep down, we know how unspeakably wrong abortion is, and we use these slogans to ease our consciences, or to convince ourselves that it is noble?
When a woman wants to have a child, she celebrates the life growing within her from the moment she gets her first positive test. Our daughter told us she was pregnant by showing us an ultrasound image taken just weeks into her pregnancy. She was so excited about this new life. What changes if the child is unwanted? Is it no longer a life just because it is unwanted? Is it not still a developing human child?
We are constantly lectured by the left to “follow the science,” but that argument seems to disappear when it comes to abortion. Other than conception,
landing and takeoff of a police helicopter and a simulated high-speed chase in a Nassau police car.
The Civilian Police Academy was a pared-down version of the extensive training that our Nassau County Police Department professionals receive. It gives participants insights into the decisions officers make and what they go through on a daily basis. This experience further elevated my tremendous respect for our law enforcement professionals and appreciation for the department’s commitment to training and professionalism.
the county’s proposal to mobilize ‘provisional sheriffs’ was reckless.
Moreover, my experience in the Civilian Police Academy, as a county legislator, provided me with a unique perspective that I can apply to critical law enforcement and public safety policy decisions. It was a tremendous experience, personally and professionally.
Earlier this spring, the administration of County Executive Bruce Blakeman solicited applications for “provisional sheriffs.” As a predicate to applying, each of these citizens required a valid pistol permit. Provisional sheriffs could be mobilized to guard public spaces, utilities and infrastructure during vaguely defined “states of emergency.”
I respect the fact that several of the participants in Blakeman’s program may be retired law enforcement professionals and members of our armed forces, and I thank them for their prior service. Nevertheless, the 30-day training crash course that these civilians received is woefully insufficient to get anyone prepared to act in any law enforcement capacity. It becomes more troublesome when you consider that NCPD officers receive seven months of intense basic training before being permitted to function as police officers.
By comparison, my classmates in the Civilian Police Academy and I completed 14 weeks of instruction by the NCPD. Logically, wouldn’t we be better trained than other civilians who received only 30 days of training? For some reason the Blakeman administration believes that provisional sheriffs need a mere 30 days of vaguely defined training before being activated in potentially chaotic, emergency situations.
From its inception, I believed that the Blakeman administration’s proposal was reckless, misguided and unlawful. As I completed the Civilian Academy, I grew even more steadfast that the provisional special deputy sheriff program — also known as the “militia” — is a recipe for disaster.
there is nothing that happens during the pregnancy that is anything other than a matter of development. Of course a baby is not “viable” at 10 or 12 weeks gestation, but a newborn infant is not viable, either. They both need considerable development before they are selfsufficient to any degree.
Women have all the “freedom” in the world — before another life comes into play. Where else in our society do we allow one person to take the life of another with impunity? If that’s “freedom” or “autonomy,” we should have none of it.
What bothers me most about abortion is that we would not treat our pets that badly. Surely we spay and neuter our pets, but if there was a clinic where vets were cutting open those poor unfortunate dogs and cats that found themselves in the midst of unwanted pregnancies and destroying the litters, there would be a public outcry against such a place. That vet would find him or herself in jail before they could blink an eye.
Why do we not do that for our children?
PhILIP PRESTAMO Pastor, Cornerstone Church Freeport
I have always believed that only police officers should be doing police work. If what I learned in a 14-week police course does not qualify me to act in a law enforcement professional’s capacity, why should these provisional sheriffs be given authority to insert themselves, and their firearms, into emergency situations? These are situations in which residents are already stressed, confused and seeking clarity.
Nassau County doesn’t need this. Nassau County doesn’t want this. We have more than 2,600 well-trained officers already at the ready, not to mention state, village and city police departments that can provide mutual aid. We also have the National Guard, FEMA and other agencies that are far better equipped to assist than a handful of provisional special deputy sheriffs.
There is plenty to do in Nassau — we should be devoting our attention to addressing real issues like fixing our broken assessment system, investing in our aging infrastructure, getting lifesaving opioid settlement funds onto the front lines of the addiction crisis, and saving Nassau University Medical Center and Nassau Community College. This “militia” is yet another example of wasted time, resources and energy by the Blakeman administration, which focuses on finding solutions to problems that don’t exist.
Seth I. Koslow represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.
