Long Beach Herald 02-29-2024

By ANGElINA ZINGARIEllo & BRENDAN CARPENTER

Checking out l BHS’s newest robot

City Manager Dan Creighton, near right, and Councilman John Bendo visited Long Beach High School’s Riptide Robotics team on Monday to get an update on the robot team members are building for a regional competition at Hofstra University on March 20. The science and skills the students are learning are helping to prepare them for any number of science- and tech-oriented careers.

School district ponders major cut in state aid

By ANGElINA ZINGARIEllo & BRENDAN CARPENTER Of the Herald

Since Jan. 16, when Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled her proposed fiscal year 2025 budget, educators have been focused on state aid for local schools.

The governor’s spending plan includes about $35 billion in state aid next year, an increase of $825 million, or 2.4 percent. It is the largest investment in education in the state’s history.

WNonetheless, many school districts, including Long Beach, are facing cuts in state aid, and efforts to revamp the state’s school funding formula are gaining momentum, with the state Board of Regents taking the lead. The prevailing argument is that the current formula, put in place in 2007, is outdated and distributes funds to schools unfairly.

the state has equitable access to a high-quality education, and the importance of figuring economic factors such as poverty levels, regional costs, property values and inflation into the foundation aid formula. Furthermore, it advocated a $1 million study to explore potential changes in that formula.

e fear school leaders may find this exceptionally challenging.

BoARD oF REGENTS

The purpose of such a study, the board explained, would be to “gain a better understanding of the cost to educate a student in New York State, and how to fairly apportion those costs between state and local funds and provide this information to the legislature and Governor for their consideration.”

As the Long Beach Public School District ponders a potential $4.3 million reduction in state aid, administrators find themselves in the middle of this discussion, and in agreement with the Board of Regents, which oversees education policy in the state.

In a statement emailed to the Herald last Friday, the board emphasized its commitment to ensuring that every student in

But some education officials have raised concerns about the potential impact of changes in school aid calculations, particularly for rural districts. Some fear that such changes, without adequate time for planning and implementation, could further exacerbate challenges faced by schools in small communities, especially amid the drawdown of federal stimulus funding.

“An abrupt change to the school aid calculation, with no accompanying language facilitating regionalization or time for planning and implementing the changes,” the Board of Regents stated, “will have a sig-

Photos courtesy City of Long Beach

Elementary school may be ‘repurposed’

Continued from page 1

nificant impact on our rural districts, and will even further limit opportunities for students in these small communities.”

At the Long Beach Board of Education meeting on Jan. 23, district officials addressed pressing budget concerns raised by Hochul’s spending proposal, and particularly the fate of East Elementary School.

Michael DeVito, the assistant superintendent of finance and operations, presented two potential approaches to addressing a potential $3.8 million budget shortfall due to increased expenses, which would be exacerbated by the proposed cut in state aid.

The options included “repurposing” East Elementary, which has a declining enrollment and high maintenance costs. Under that plan, administrators at the school would move to Lindell and Lido elementary schools, and two assistant principal positions could be eliminated. Alternatively, there could be staff and program reductions across the district.

Reacting to Hochul’s proposed cuts, elected officials, educators and community members have voiced their apprehension about the potential consequences for Long Beach’s essential educational programs and services.

State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitz -

School officials, community members and five state legislators, including Sen.

left, gathered outside the Long Beach schools’ administration building on feb. 1 to voice their opposition to a cut in state aid.

patrick spoke against the aid reduction at a news conference outside the district administration building on Feb. 1. She said she was concerned about the potential repercussions of cutting a total of $11 million in foundation aid for districts in her 9th Senate District,

which includes Long Beach.

“This community can’t take another hit,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “A $4.3 million cut is not just about cutting after-school programs. It’s about laying off teachers, increasing class size and possibly even closing a

school.”

Superintendent Jennifer Gallagher echoed these concerns, underlining the consequences of such a large reduction in state aid, particularly in a district where, she said, 30 percent of students live below the state poverty threshold.

Courtesy Rebeca Oliveira

patricia Canzoneri-f itzpatrick, front, fourth from

Playing pickleball for more than just fun

Merrick resident comes to Long Beach to educate about breast cancer

By BRENDAN CARPENTER

bcarpenter@liherald.com

Each year in the United States, there are about 240,000 breast cancer cases in women and 2,100 in men. The disease has hit one local woman hard, and she’s doing something about it.

Joanne Ameruoso was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Valley Stream before settling in Merrick with her family. Several cancers run on both sides of her family, including breast cancer. The BRCA genes, which put women at a much higher risk for developing the disease, were not found in her genetic makeup.

Don’t ignore this because it’s real.

JoANNE AmERuoso Merrick resident

Her mother, Mary Jane, died of breast cancer in 2014, at 73. Reflecting on her loss, Ameruoso realized much of her own health mimicked her mother’s.

She opted to undergo a preventive double mastectomy at 48 — and learned that she had Lynch syndrome, an inherited genetic disorder that puts those who have it at risk for several cancers, including stomach, colon, liver, brain, skin and endometrial cancer.

“Losing my mom in a very traumatic way, I became proactive for myself to take preventative measures to avoid breast cancer,” she said, “and was doing so we knew that we had to find a genetics that was streaming down my family, because there was nobody BRCA positive in my family. So I had genetic testing done to find out that I was predisposed to Lynch syndrome and, being proactive, I had my mastectomy.”

She wants to bring more awareness to the disease, and also raise money for its research. To do so, she’s planning a special night in Long Beach, bringing people together with a racket and a ball.

Ameruoso is hosting “Pickleball for a Cause” at the Long Beach Tennis Center, 899 Monroe Blvd., on March 15.

Ameruoso loved playing tennis. However, she has a slight issue in her wrist from her surgeries. Her doctor told her she shouldn’t’ play tennis anymore because of them. So, she stepped into the world of pickleball. She’s bringing this newer aspect of her life to all community members, with the hope of bringing awareness — and a little fun — while doing it.

“When you get on the court, we’ll play all ages and all levels,” she said. “The advanced players will all be on one side of the court. Sometimes someone you’re playing could be a little slower and then other times you go ‘oh, hey, I better watch out!’”

It will cost $40 per person to participate in the meaningful pickleball tour-

nament. There will be refreshments and a 50/50 raffle. Those not interested in playing can also donate through Venmo, by sending money to @Joanne-Ameruoso. You can also contact Ameruoso by calling her at (516) 605-7956 or emailing her at JoFaithOverFear@aol.com.

All proceeds will go to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. It is her first such event, and she hopes to host more in the near future.

“What I’m trying to do is explain to women, and men, — men are not excluded from this — your genetics. I think we

focus so much on BRCA, but no, it’s your genetics. That’s what I’m truly reaching for, and to just be a constant advocate for yourself. Don’t ignore this because it’s real.”

Ameruoso has been traveling as a motivational speaker on the topic, speaking at the U.N., representing the American Cancer Society, and has been on the Catholic Faith Network. She also wrote a memoir, “Faith Over Fear: How my mom’s fear of breast cancer became my fight,” detailing her experiences.

Courtesy Metro Creative

Pickleball has been an increasingly popular sport across the country, and on March 15 it will be played for a greater cause.

Courtesy Joanne Ameruoso

A young Ameruoso with her mother, Mary Jane.

Brendan Carpenter/Herald Long Beach’s tennis center will be the site of the first-ever Pickleball for a Cause next month.

Amy Schumer talks about recent diagnosis

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Comedian, actress and director Amy Schumer, a graduate of South Side High School in Rockville Centre, recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with Cushing Syndrome.

Cushing Syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused when a person’s body has too much cortisol, a naturally occurring steroid, commonly triggered by stress, that is released by adrenal and endocrine glands, or provided externally through steroid injections.

In a one-on-one interview with former CNN chief White House correspondent Jessica Yellin, via her News Not Noise newsletter, the “Trainwreck” star shared that her symptoms were brought on by high doses of steroid injections.

“There are a few types of Cushing,” Schumer said. “Some that can be fatal, require brain surgery or removal of adrenal glands.”

The Mayo Clinic says that some of the main symptoms of Cushing Syndrome include a rounded face, a fatty hump between the shoulders and pink or purple stretch marks on the skin. It is a highly treatable, yet very serious condition that can in some cases cause high blood pressure, bone loss, and occasionally Type 2 diabetes.

“I was also in MRI machines four hours at a time, having my veins shut down from the amount of blood drawn and thinking I may not be around to see my son grow up,” Schumer described in her interview. “So finding out I have the kind of Cushing that will just work itself out and I’m healthy was the greatest news imaginable. It has been a crazy couple weeks for me and my family.”

Courtesy Comedy Central Actress/Comedian Amy Schumer, a South Side High School alum, recently shared that she has been diagnosed with Cushing Syndrome, in a one-on-one interview with former CNN White House correspondent Jessica Yellin.

News of her diagnosis comes less than a week after Schumer was criticized online for what she described as her “puffier than normal” appearance.

Estate Planning for Pets

In the event of their death, many people wish to provide for the adequate

and feeding of their beloved dog, cat, bird or other pet. Here is an abridged version of New York’s statute authorizing a trust for your pet:

a. The intended use of the principal or income, of a trust for the care of a designated domestic or pet animal, may be enforced by an individual designated for that purpose in the trust instrument. Such trust shall terminate when no living animal is covered by the trust.

b. No portion of the principal or income may be converted to the use of the trustee or to any use other than for the benefit of a covered animal.

c. Upon termination, the trustee shall transfer the unexpended trust property as directed in the trust instrument or, if there are no such directions in the trust

instrument, the property shall pass to the estate of the grantor.

d. A court may reduce the amount of property transferred if it determines that amount substantially exceeds the amount required for the intended use. The amount of the reduction, if any, passes as unexpended trust property pursuant to paragraph (c), above.

e. If no trustee is designated or no designated trustee is willing or able to serve, a court shall appoint a trustee and may make such other orders and determinations as are advisable to carry out the intent of the grantor and the purpose of this section.

If you are interested in setting up a trust for your beloved pet, please make an appointment to see us for a free consultation. Should you have no one to take care of your pet, try PetEstates.com, who will perform this service for you.

“There are some medical and hormonal things going on in my world right now, but l’m okay,” Schumer shared via Instagram. “I also believe a woman doesn’t need any excuse for her physical appearance and owes no explanation.”

In her interview, Schumer tells Yellin that she was forthcoming with her diagnosis because she wanted to advocate for women’s health.

“The shaming and criticism of our ever-changing bodies is something I have dealt with and witnessed for a long time,” Schumer said. “I want so much for women to love themselves and be relentless when fighting for their own health in a system that usually doesn’t believe them.”

Before her diagnosis, Schumer attributed her appearance to endometriosis, an autoimmune disease that she has suffered from for years.

According to the Mayo Clinic, endometriosis occurs when tissue, similar to the tissue that lines the uterus, develops outside the uterus in places where it doesn’t belong.

“I want women to know it’s abnormal to have extremely painful periods and to find someone with experience in diagnosing and operating for endometriosis,” Schumer told Yellin during their interview. “I want women vomiting horribly into their second and third trimester (to know they) may have hyperemesis gravidarum like I had. I want women to value feeling strong, healthy and comfortable in their own skin. I am extremely privileged to have the resources I have for my health and I know it’s not that way for most people. I am grateful and want to use my voice to continue to fight for women.”

Season 2 of Amy Schumer’s series, “Life and Beth,” is now streaming on Hulu.

OBITUARY

Sheila Cahill, 79, of RVC, a caring nurse

Shelia Cahill, 79, died on February 15, 2024. She was a longtime resident of Rockville Centre, who was born and raised in the Bronx by her loving parents, Denis and Elizabeth.

Cahill was a loving mother to Sheila (William) Carberry and Arthur Kelly, and was an adored grandmother to William, Thomas and Joseph. She cherished her siblings including the late Betty (Arthur), Catherine (the late

ShEILA CAhILL

James) and Denis (Jean) along with her numerous nieces, nephews, and great friend including Bill and John.

A funeral Mass will take place on March 2 at Our Lady of Miraculous Medal at 11 a.m., 75 Parkside Drive in Point Lookout. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Camp Anchor in Lido Beach.

Kitty Cove raises thousands by bowling

Long Beach Humane Society, also known as Kitty Cove in Island Park held their annual bowling for Kitties fund raising Event at Maple Lanes in Rockville Centre on Sunday, Feb. 25th

The Humane Society raised over $10,000 at the bowling event, which was then matched by two separate generous donors raising the total over $30,000. The pro -

ceeds will go a long way as the shelter enters a busy kitten season in the spring.

Long Beach Humane Society is a Long Island staple, saving approximately 300 dogs and cats each year through rescue, foster, and adoption.

–Kepherd Daniel

Helen Henry Aloi, Kim Boley, Maureen Galvin, Annie Melia, Tim Rau, Tessa Rau and Katie Rau of the Long Beach Humane Society helped raise a ton of money for the animal shelter.

Dina Ewashko/Herald photos

The grand prize of the day went to Helen who won a trip to the Bahamas.

Blakeman defends banning trans athletes

By PARKER SCHUG pschug@liherald.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman says he’s protecting athletes in his executive order last week banning some transgender participants in female-centric sports in county facilities. But the action also has raised concerns — and legal questions. Some of which were brought before the Nassau County Legislature on Monday.

We’re confident that as soon as this executive order comes before court, it will be shut down

BoBBy HodGSon director New York Civil Liberties Union

“An individual’s gender is defined as the individual’s biological sex at birth,” Blakeman wrote in his executive order, which demands any sport entities interested in using county facilities to first designate themselves based on male, female or co-ed categories, and then only accept athletes who meet that criteria according to the gender that was originally listed on their birth certificate.

There are nearly 100 facilities in the county that will be impacted, Blakeman told reporters last week.

But Bobby Hodgson — director of LGBTQ rights litigation at New York Civil Liberties Union — says those impacts may not be felt long.

“Were confident that as soon as this executive order comes before court, it will be shut down,” Hodgson said.

The executive order primarily targets athletes born biologically male, but who now identify as female, from participating in teams intended only for girls or women. Blakeman’s order does not require facilities to ban athletes born female and now identifying as male from joining male-centric teams.

Blakeman, however, was quick to add last week, that trans athletes identifying as females aren’t completely banned — they will still be able to participate in co-ed leagues as well as male competitive leagues.

Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz backed Blakeman’s directive, citing safety and integrity.

“This is about protecting our female athletes,” said Goetz, whose district primarily represents Oyster Bay. “This is about making sure they’re not denied opportunities for scholarships, or any type of opportunity that comes with playing sports, recognition and things like that.”

Eva Nordman, an 8-year-old who plays basketball, softball and soccer, said it was also about keeping sports equitable.

“Boys have different chromosomes than girls and that makes them stronger,” Nordman said. “It’s not fair if they

college, whether it’s high school, whether it’s just a community league — and it is an unfair advantage for someone who’s a biological male to compete against a biological female.”

Dawn Foster — a former deputy county attorney and an Oceanside resident — stopped by Mineola on Monday to speak out against Blakeman’s executive order in front of the county legislature on behalf of her family.

“In 2021, when I finally stopped fighting against myself and accepted that I was a woman and needed transition, we felt fortunate to live in Nassau County,” Foster said, calling the executive order unlawful, and condemning what she described as efforts to demonize trans women. “That feeling was shattered last week.

“Blakeman and Goetz press conference was a total of repudiation of the humanity of trans people, implying that we are cheaters, liars and bullies.”

compete against us.”

Protesters gathered outside of Blakeman’s news conference last week led by Juli Grey-Owens, executive director of Gender Equality New York, chanting, “Trans kids are our kids.” They will get some support from the NYCLU — a notfor=profit legal right group — say they will consider taking Nassau County to court over what Hodgson described as a disregard of state human rights and civil rights laws.

An amendment to the state’s human rights law in 2019 outlawed gender identity and expression discrimination in employment, housing, places of public accommodation, and non-religious schools, according to state officials.

Hodgson is not alone. State attorney general Letitia James condemned Blakeman’s order, calling it “transphobic and

deeply dangerous.”

“In New York, we have laws that protect our beautifully diverse communities from hate and discrimination of any and every kind,” James said, in a statement. “My office is charged with enforcing and upholding those laws, and we stand up to those who violate them and trespass on the rights of marginalized communities. We are reviewing our legal options.”

But Blakeman told reporters last week he knew of no state policy that could threaten his executive order

“This is not precluding anybody from participating in sports,” Blakeman wrote in his executive order. “What it is, is identifying that there are women and girls who spent a tremendous amount of time and effort to excel and compete in their sports that are women’s sports whether it’s the WNBA, whether it’s

Foster already had support from some county legislators like Carrié Solages and Delia DeRiggi-Whitton.

“I have never, in my many years of government service, had a constituent or parent complain to me about this issue,” Solages said, “making it clear that this embarrassing and illegal order is just another attempt by County Executive Blakeman to distract from the many issues that plague Nassau County.”

But Blakeman is not going to let those efforts dissuade him.

“We are finding out, in the last few months, there was a movement for biological males to bully their way into competing in sports or leagues or teams that identify themselves — or advertise themselves — as girls, or female or women’s teams or leagues,” the county executive said last week. “We find that unacceptable. It’s a form of bullying.”

Parker Schug/Herald photos

Victoria Argueta, from left, Sophia Argueta, Eva Nordman, Julia Nordman and Jenna Nordman join Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman at a news conference, telling reporters he’s banning some transgender athletes from participating in female-centric sports in county facilities.

Juli Grey-Owens, executive director of Gender Equality New York, front, protests outside a Mineola news conference last week where Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced he was banning some transgender athletes from participating in female-centric sports in county facilities.

Coalition formed to advocate for local journalism

A statewide group of local news organizations — comprising of more than 100 newspapers across New York — have launched The Empire State Local News Coalition, a joint advocacy effort to advance a legislative package intended to deliver long-term sustainability to the sector.

The coalition launches at a watershed moment for the journalism industry as well as democracy. More than 3,000 newspapers have shuttered across the country since 2005, resulting in thousands of layoffs and countless communities losing essential platforms for sharing their stories.

In New York state alone, newspapers have declined 40 percent between 2004 and 2019. Since then, the number of journalists has halved, and there has been a 60 percent decrease in overall circulation.

There is a growing number of communities with little to no access to local newspaper coverage. More than a dozen New York counties are down to just one newspaper, and Orleans County in Western New York is the first with no local newspaper at all.

The decline of local journalism is a threat to the health of our democracy, as research from the Democracy Fund shows there is a direct correlation between the breadth of local media coverage and levels of civic engagement — an especially significant factor in an election year.

If newspapers continue to shutter, communities across the state risk being effectively disenfranchised, losing the ability to shape policy conversations, and hold local officials accountable.

“The Empire State Local News Coalition is dedicated to advancing a legislative package with bipartisan support aimed at providing a lifeline to newspapers across the state,” said founding member Zachary Rich-

More than 3,000 newspapers have closed across the country since 2005, resulting in countless communities losing essential platforms for sharing their stories. The Empire State Local News Coalition intends to reverse that by advancing new legislation and initiatives that would protect jobs, and incentivize small business to advertise.

ner — director of Richner Communications, the parent company of Herald Community Newspapers — in a release. “All New Yorkers deserve to have their voices heard, and hometown newspapers are key to that mission.

“We urge government officials and local stakeholders to rally behind us, safeguarding democracy, and bolstering the future of local journalism in New York.”

The Empire State coalition is championing what it describes as a robust legislative package intended to

ensure local papers survive through the 21st century and beyond. Key priorities include:

• The Local Journalism Sustainability Act (S.625B, A.2958C) — Sponsored by state Sen. Brad HoylmanSigal, the bill would provide tax credits to local news outlets for the employment of local journalists, while providing job stability and paving the way for more hiring opportunities, and an expanded workforce in the future.

• Incentivizing small businesses to advertise in local media — This win-win proposal, according to organizers, would encourage local businesses to advertise in local media, driving revenue for hometown papers, while connecting businesses with their customers.

“Democracy places a responsibility on citizens to be informed so they can effectively participate in the electoral process, and in local government,” said Bill Shumway, editor and publisher of North Country This Week in Potsdam, in a release. “A trusted local news source is essential for that to happen. Healthy communities need an unbiased news organization to connect, enrich and inform citizens.”

“The bottom line is that this proposed legislation would be a major game changer,” said Mark Vinciguerra, president of Capital Region Independent Media out of Clifton Park. “We would be able to increase the number and type of journalists we have on staff. It would allow us to cover more beats, do more video reporting, investigative reporting, and expand our ‘Good News’ initiative we have started.”

A 2022 analysis found more than 350 newsrooms across the state would benefit from the local journalism payroll tax credit. This includes 53 newsrooms in New York City, with 21 of them being ethnic media outlets.

To learn more about the efforts, visit SaveNYLocalNews.com.

By TONY BELLISSIMO

tbellissimo@liherald.com

It wasn’t a flawless weekend for Long Beach at the New York State wrestling championships in Albany, but the Marines were a perfect 4-for-4 when it came to earning spots on the All-State podium.

Super sophomore Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez fell just short of his quest for a second state title in three seasons and had to settle for runner-up at 108 pounds after dropping a 1-0 heartbreaker to sophomore Cooper Merli of Newburgh in last Saturday night’s final.

Merli repeated as state champ with a third-period escape for the lone point of the match. Sibomana-Rodriguez was faced with stalling tactics by Merli in the first period that led to a warning by referees. The action was stopped multiple times and a point was nearly rewarded to the three-time Nassau County champ.

“He wanted to slow the match down to the speed he wanted,” Long Beach coach Ray Adams said of Merli. “Dunia had a few opportunities to score and didn’t finish off his moves. It wasn’t the end result he was looking for, but he had another great season and he’ll be back for sure.”

Sibomana-Rodriguez, who made national news with his state title run as an eighth-grader in February, 2022, took third in the state last winter. He won 42 of 45 matches this season. He had a bye into the third round last Friday and

opened the tournament with a pin in 3:34 over Peyton Hubbard of Chenango Forks. He then faced a familiar foe, Manhasset’s Will Russell, in the quarterfinals and in a rematch of the county championship bout, emerged with a convincing 10-1 major decision.

In the semifinals Saturday morning, SibomanaRodriguez earned another major decision victory, 19-8

over Longwood’s Anthony LaGala-Ryan.

“Dunia’s been on fire,” Adams said. “He had a great weekend but the final match just didn’t go his way.”

A year after making history as the first-ever seventhgrader to win a Nassau County Division 1 championship and finishing All-State (seventh place), Ethan Andreula repeated as county champ at 101 pounds and bettered his spot on the All-State podium, taking third with four consecutive wins after falling to eventual champion William Soto of Newburgh in the quarterfinals.

“Ethan had some impressive wins,” Adams explained. “Once you lose, the best you can do is third. He did a great job of refocusing. Really proud of him and excited for the future.”

Andreula, who went 5-1 upstate and finished with 40 wins this season. He took a 5-2 decision over MacArthur’s Vincent Orandello in the third-place match. That was also a rematch of the Round of 16 in Albany and the county final on Super Bowl Sunday.

Senior Gregory Milone (160 pounds) and junior Gregory Walpole (116) were Nassau runners-up and can now add All-State to their resumes. Milone, who registered 41 victories on the season, lost his opening match by a point but went 4-2 thereafter to claim seventh. Walpole had three wins in Albany, including one in overtime to become All-State, and also finished seventh.

“We’re very proud with how all the boys competed,” Adams said. “Overall, we’re so happy with everyone’s performances.”

Raymond Nelson/Herald

Long Beach sophomore Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez, top, finished state runner-up at 108 pounds, giving him a third straight All-State season.

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

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown

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

psegliny.com/EcoDev

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

HERALD SCHOOLS

Long Beach’s elementary schools stay busy

Long Beach’s elementary schools have been busy this month, holding multiple engaging events for students.

West Elementary School held the Family Heart Huddle on Feb. 14. Students were encouraged to bring special guests to take part in Valentine-themed arts and crafts, showing the importance of family within the school community.

Lindell Elementary School hosted its annual Wellness Fair on Feb. 16, offering students and staff a day dedicated to physical activity, mindfulness, nutrition and safety. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including Zumba, yoga and relay races.

East Elementary School celebrated World Read Aloud Day and Global Play

Day.

World Read Aloud Day highlights the importance of sharing stories, encouraging students to grab a book and read to others. Similarly, Global Play Day promotes fun and learning in the classroom, inviting students to bring their favorite games to play with classmates.

Lido Elementary School observed P.S. I Love You Day, a reminder of the importance of kindness and mental health awareness within the school community. Dressed in purple, students engaged in a series of kindness-themed activities, encouraging inclusivity and amplifying awareness around mental health.

–Angelina Zingariello

Students at West Elementary School participated in their Family Heart Huddle on Valentine’s Day, doing arts and crafts.

Photos courtesy Long Beach Public Schools

The annual wellness fair at Lindell Elementary School took place on Feb. 16, teaching some healthy tips to the students.

East School students celebrated World Read Aloud Day and Global Play Day, excited to promote fun in the classroom.

Lido students were reminded of kindness and mental health awareness during their P.S. I Love You Day.

Empire Wind approved amid turbulence

The federal government has granted final approval for the construction and operation plan of the Empire Wind projects, marking a significant milestone despite challenges in the offshore wind industry.

With this key permitting action by the Bureau of Ocean Energy, Empire Wind is on track to begin construction in its federal lease area off the southern coast of Long Island later this year. Already well advanced in planning and development, Empire Wind 1 could deliver first power to New Yorkers by 2026. Empire Wind projects, would see turbines starting 12 miles off the South Shore at Long Beach.

In addition, construction to transform the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a major hub for offshore wind could begin as early as this spring.

“We are ready to get to work,” said Molly Morris, president of Equinor Renewables Americas. “The Construction and Operations approval follows years of rigorous review and collaboration with BOEM and other federal agencies. Equinor is grateful for a shared commitment to achieving state and federal offshore wind ambitions and Empire Wind is one step closer to delivering renewable power to hundreds of thousands of New York homes.”

Equinor, the developer, navigates changes in project partnerships and seeks state support for cost adjustments. The approval covers Empire 1 and 2, totaling over 2,000 megawatts, emphasizing clean energy expansion efforts and climate change mitigation.

Empire Wind developer Equinor announced separation earlier this year with its partner developer BP, in which Equinor took over the Empire projects, while BP took on their Beacon Wind projects.

Long Beach, Oceanside and Island Park residents have raised questions about the Empire 2 project. Gov. Kathy Hochul last year vetoed a bill that would have cleared a path for the project.

–Kepherd Daniel

Herald File photo

STEPPING OUT

Her theatre life

Tony Award nominee Sheryl Kaller directs Off-Broadway’s ‘The White Chip,’ a play about alcoholism and recovery

By Iris Wiener

When Valley Stream native Sheryl Kaller was 12, she knew she wanted to be a director. It was 1973. She went to a Sunday matinee of “Pippin,” and Ben Vereen sang “Magic to Do,” immediately clinching her dream.

“I always knew theatre was the only place where we can authentically use our imaginations,” she says. “I had the Spidey sense of knowing that it was a collaborative art.”

It was the start to a journey that would lead her to a Tony nomination as she directed Broadway (“Next Fall,” “Mothers and Sons”) and Off-Broadway plays, including “The White Chip,” which follows a theatre director who finds himself spinning out of control with an addiction to alcohol. The play, exploring his journey to recovery, runs through March 9, at MCC Theater.

“Broadway and Off-Broadway always felt like my community,” Kaller says. “My parents were very vigilant about getting me in to see theatre all the time. It informed my exposure to the art and my love of New York City.”

As Kaller grew up in the Green Acres community of Valley Stream, she performed in community theatre with her mother, while her father — who repaired car seat covers for a living — would use his knowledge of sewing to design costumes for the shows. (“They were horrible actually,” Kaller says, laughing at the fond memories.)

In her senior year at Valley Stream South High School, Kaller got her first taste of directing. After landing the role of Rosie in “Bye Bye Birdie,” she realized a big number — “The Telephone Hour” — could use some major help.

“I said to the director, who was great, ‘With all due respect, may I redo (the number)?’ So I redid the whole ‘Telephone Hour.’ That’s when I knew I was much better at directing than acting, and it led me to go to Emerson College — as a director, not as an actor.”

In 2019, Kaller directed “The White Chip” at OffBroadway’s 59E59 with the support of acclaimed playwright Terrence McNally, who, much like the play’s narrator, was

• Now through March 9

• Robert W. Wilson MCC Theater Space, 511 W. 52nd St., Manhattan

• Tickets available at WhiteChipPlay.com

a recovered alcoholic. When McNally died during the pandemic, Kaller knew she had to bring the play back to the New York theatre community.

“In the world of Covid and in the world of losing community, we felt it was really important to bring it back because ‘The White Chip’ is a hopeful sobriety story, and a serio-comedy. There’s a lot of fun things in it,” she says of the play, which found its new home at the MCC Theater. “We are building community and doing service with this show, while entertaining at the same time.”

According to Kaller, after the pandemic, alcoholism in women doubled, while in men it was up a third.

“AA and addiction meetings were all on Zoom, and everybody kind of fractured,” she says. “This is a story that makes you laugh and cry. It also talks about how there’s no shame in being an addict. Shame touches everybody’s lives in one way or another.”

In deciding to take the piece on again, it didn’t hurt that Tony Award winner Annaleigh Ashford was at the show’s helm as producer.

“She’s very magical,” says Kaller of Ashford, who recently starred in Broadway’s “Sweeney Todd” opposite Josh Groban.

“The White Chip” has such an important message that it also boasts celebrity supporters and producers Jason Biggs, John Larroquette, Edie Falco and Hank Azaria. The pandemic even inspired playwright Sean Daniels to create The Recovery Project, an initiative working to heal the stigma of addiction and recovery through the development of new plays, theatre education programs, and outreach.

“All of our fancy producers are sober people,” says Kaller, of the importance of the play and the initiative. “Every producer who came on board financially was incredibly gracious. They don’t have the best deal in the world because a lot of the money is going into The Recovery Project. If you’re an actor, a designer, in the PR department, if you’re cleaning the toilets, you need resources. At all of our performances so far, at least one person has asked us for help. We have a QR code that gives them resources whether or not they have health insurance.”

The play continues to remind Kaller of the importance of community, a lesson that harkens back to her roots on Long Island.

“One thousand Long Islanders showed up to my dad’s funeral,” she recalls. “I grew up in such a beautiful community there. My heart will always be on the ‘Guyland.’ I got the wonderful suburban, great education at Valley Stream South, and yet I got to go into the city all the time. But I will always remember all of these people who showed up for my family.

“I wish Long Islanders would start coming back to New York theatre because we really do build a lot of beautiful community in the city and it’s worth it. It is apparent with ‘The White Chip’ and with so much more.”

Tusk

Tusk goes their own way, with their dynamic tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Since forming in 2008, Tusk has prided themselves on being the ultimate tribute to the ‘70s supergroup. No fancy tricks, no gimmicks, just five musicians recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac to perfection with note-fornote renditions. Seasoned musicians who go back some 25 years, their attention to detail, talent and reverence of their subjects has been critically acclaimed, resulting in their accolades as the premiere purveyors of ‘Mac. Time, trust, and close friendship have cultivated an intimate familiarity with each other’s musical nuances, shaping every performance with precision. More than a band, they are a family. Made up of Kathy Phillips (as Stevie Nicks on vocals), Scott McDonald (as Lindsey Buckingham, guitar and vocals), Kim Williams (as Christine McVie, keys and vocals), Randy Artiglere (as John McVie, bass) and Tom Nelson (as Mick Fleetwood on drums) the five-piece band transports you back to the group’s glory days.

Friday, March 1, 8 p.m. $63, $53, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 7676444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

The Irish Tenors

These gents will warm your soul with the beauty of Irish music. The Irish Tenors have been the acknowledged Celtic music kings since bursting upon the scene during a 1998 television special. With 10 bestselling albums to their credit, they share company with the likes of The Three Tenors and Andrea Bocelli as the biggest money makers PBS has presented. They’ve since become a part of the Irish movement in America, with plenty of talented Irish acts coming after them. They have stood the test of time — audiences of all ages love the Irish Tenors. Now comprised of classically trained tenor Anthony Kearns, doctor-turned-vocalist Ronan Tynan, and tenor Declan Kelly, their repertoire is wide-ranging and they also introduce — or reintroduce — their audiences to Ireland’s exquisite jigs, reels and ballads.

Friday, March 1, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $70. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com,TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Crystal Dickinson, Joe Tapper, and Jason Tam star in playwright Sean Daniels’ autobiographical comedy, a wry theatrical journey of recovery.

Photos by Jenny Anderson

Sheryl Kaller in rehearsal.

THE Your Neighborhood

March 8

Janeane Garofalo

The comedianactress, who reigns as the queen of the alt-comedy scene, is eager to speak her mind on her current stand-up tour, when she visits the Landmark stage, Friday, March 8, 8 p.m.

Considered by many as an American institution since she first burst on the scene in 1992, the outspoken activist has plenty to say, in her own inimitable comedic style. Known for her incisive, cynical sense of humor, the SNL alum has branched out into many memorable film and TV roles, including “The Truth About Cats and Dogs,” “Wet Hot American Summer,” “Ratatouille,” “Steal This Movie,” “Reality Bites,” “Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion,” “Mystery Men,” “The Ten” and “The Cable Guy,” along with including the final season of NBC’s “The West Wing.”

Garofalo’s informed opinions and unflinching honesty on topics ranging from everyday life to pop culture inspire laughs and strikes a chord with audiences everywhere. Often a lightening rod for controversy, Garofalo finds a way to get her point across with her trademark sense of humor. Known and respected worldwide, Garofalo was also instrumental in the successful launching of the first liberal radio network, Air America Radio, where she hosted her own talk show, “The Majority Report.” A lightning rod for controversy, her opinions and candor have inspired laughs, as well as striking a chord with the left, right and everyone in between. $33, $28. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at LandmarkOnMainStreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Family theater

Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s stories, this clever adaptation puts the audience front and center, literally, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, March 1, 10:15 a.m. and noon, Saturday, March 2, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, March 5-7, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Kids become cast members, singing dancing, and acting onstage alongside the professional cast.

One of our most interactive shows at LICM Theater, this production received rave reviews in its prior run. Going beyond the traditional telling of the Oz stories, “Journey to Oz” uses personal journal entries and historic newspaper headlines to bring the history of author L. Frank Baum and illustrator W.W. Denslow to life. Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion take the audience with them on this lively, playful trip down the yellow brick road.

$10 with museum admission ($8 members), $14 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Our Gilded Age,” examines the appearances and the realities of an era that mirrors our own in many ways. Like the nation’s economy, American art and literature flourished during the Gilded Age. The art of John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Louis Comfort Tiffany and others adorned palatial residences designed by Stanford White and Ogden Codman Jr., architect of the museum’s own quintessential Gilded Age mansion. Drawing heavily upon the local literary history of Long Island, including William Cullen Bryant, Mark Twain (who named the Gilded Age), Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton and others, the exhibition will include paintings, fashion, decorative arts including period silver and china, photographs, manuscripts, first editions and other historic memorabilia.

The “Upstairs, Downstairs” approach to the life of a country house brings to life not only the storied conspicuous consumption for which the Gilded Age was infamous, but also the real lives of these many individuals who maintained the palatial estates where that lifestyle was enjoyed.

On view through March 10 Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS-SUPREME

COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU - FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, -against- ANY AND ALL KNOWN AND UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA A. MULLER ; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT ; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE ; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE ; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #3, Defendants - Index No. 609372/2023 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named Defendants-YOU ARE HEREBY

SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated December 18, 2023. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME - If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC) AND FILING THE

ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Jeffrey A. Goodstein, A.J.S.C. Dated: December 18, 2023 Filed: December 26, 2023. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 99 Tennessee Avenue, Long Beach, NY 11561. Dated: October 7, 2023 Filed: January 23, 2024. Greenspoon Marder LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Angelo A. Regina, Esq., 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022 P: (212) 524-5000

F: (212) 524-5050 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: Trade Centre South 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120

F: (954) 343-6982 144682

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY OF LONG BEACH, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, IN THE COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 608558/2019. Scott H. Siller, 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. 145024

LEGAL NOTICE

Formation of CHEM BROS 31, LLC filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/30/2024. Office loc.: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address SSNY shall mail process to Peter Kyriakides, 2121 Pacific Blvd., Atlantic Beach, NY 11509. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 144767

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR SOUNDVIEW HOME LOAN TRUST 2006-OPT1, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-OPT1, V. FERNANDO APONTE, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated September 26, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR SOUNDVIEW HOME LOAN TRUST 2006-OPT1, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-OPT1 is the Plaintiff and FERNANDO APONTE, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 25, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 540 EAST STATE STREET, LONG BEACH, NY 11561: Section 59, Block 163, Lot 25 & 26:

practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-000923 79290 144954

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC, F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS INC., Plaintiff - against - LOUIS JOHN R. ANTONETTE, et al Defendant(s).

Crime watCh arrest

Miricle Nixon, 19, of 585 Merrick Road in Rockville Centre was arrested on Feb. 25, and has been charged with assault following an investigation on Merrick Road.

LarCeny

A customer of Public Storage reported on Feb. 22 property was stolen from his storage unit.

A resident of Shellbank Place reported on Feb. 23 someone stole her unlocked motor vehicle from the driveway of her residence.

UnUsUaL inCident

An employee of Nissan reported on Feb. 20 that a vehicle was purchased by a customer using fraudulent documents in 2022.

harassment

A resident of Windermere Place reported on Feb. 24 that his neighbor was banging on his apartment door and yelling at him.

menaCing

A pedestrian reported on Feb. 22 that someone displayed what appeared to be a gun and threatened to kill him and his friends while walking on Lakeview Avenue.

reCovered stoLen motor vehiCLe

A stolen motor vehicle was found parked and unoccupied on Feb. 25 on Hendrickson Avenue.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS INC., Plaintiff AGAINST MARTIN

SCHWARTZ IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS

UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN TNTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 11, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 26, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 650 Shore Road Apt. 2T, Long Beach, NY 11561 AKA 650 Shore Road, Unit 35, Long Beach, NY 11561. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 59 Block 191 and Lot 47-CA00147-Tax Unit 36. Approximate amount of judgment $196,514.78 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #607196/2022. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on December 19, 2023. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 21st day of March, 2024 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 51 Vinton Street, Long Beach, (City of Long Beach) NY 11561. (SBL#: 59-225-27 & 28) Approximate amount of lien $398,411.13 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 610742/2019.

Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: January 22, 2024

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

144952

Public Notices

There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals

Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 3/6/2024 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 143/24. - 146/24. LIDO BEACH - Alex & Adeline Keiserman, Variances, lot area occupied, side yards, side yards aggregate, rear yard, maintain wood deck attached to dwelling; Variances, lot area occupied, side yards, side yards aggregate, maintain additions (sheds) attached to dwelling; Variance, side yard, maintain two (2) a/c units attached to dwelling; Maintain fences varying in height from 7’ to 8’ 8”., E/s Lagoon Dr. E., 1198.47’ N/o Lagoon Dr. W., a/k/a 239 Lagoon Dr. E.

ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Lido Beach within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction.

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 145106

SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on March 29, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 443 WEST PARK AVENUE, LONG BEACH, NY 11561: Section 59, Block 34, Lot 74: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY OF LONG BEACH, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 2, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 26 East Market Street, a/k/a 26 Market Street, Long Beach, NY 11561.

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU LOANCARE, LLC, V. THOMAS A. CURLEY, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated December 6, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein LOANCARE, LLC is the Plaintiff and THOMAS A. CURLEY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 610961/2022. Peter Kramer, 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.

145169

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. GLORIA MICHELL, ET AL, Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 29, 2008 and an Order duly entered on May 2, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau

All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 59, Block 96 and Lot 218. Approximate amount of judgment is $647,819.24 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 023192/2007. 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.

Melissa

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

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

MEDICAL SECRETARY FT: Far Rockaway. Front Desk, Experienced, Insurance Verification, Patient Collections, Computer Skills. Bi-lingual Spanish/ English. Starting $17-$18/Hr. Send Resume: freyecare220@gmail.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com

Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long

or Email joyceprince990@gmail.com

Open Houses

EAST ROCKAWAY BA 62 Bulaire Rd, , NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This 4 BR, 2.5 Bth Exp Ranch in Waverly Park Area of SD#20(Lynbrook). Open Floor Plan. LR w/Fpl, DR, Gran/Wood EIK Plus

Family Rm w/ Vaulted Ceiling. Upper Level Has Huge Skylit Recreation Rm, BR, Bth & W/D. Beautifully Lanscaped Oversized Prop W/ Trex Deck for Entertaining. Multi Car Drvewy...$899,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 515-238-4299

HEWLETT: 2/28, 2-3:30, 1267 Peninsula Blvd, 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA, 1534 Broadway #213,.! Move Right Into This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Spacious Corner Unit. Updtd Gran/Wood Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Garage Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship....$649,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT: 1267 Peninsula Blvd, Open House By Appt, NEW! 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT 1390 BROADWAY #117, OPEN HOUSE BY APPT, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Beautiful JR 4 Coop Apt in Luxurious Hewlett Townhouse. Huge LR & DR, Renov Kit w/ Wood Cab/Quartz Counters/ Stainless St Appl.Encl Terrace Overlooking Garden Can Be Rm. Spac BR w/ En Suite Bath. W/D in Apt. 24 Hr Drmn, Elevator, Valet Pkg, Priv Storage. Redone IG Comm Pool. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship....$359,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BAY PARK: BA 190 Meadowview Ave, , Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!.REDUCED!!.$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299

LAWRENCE 3/3, 12-1:30, 15 Auerbach Lane,, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! Amazing Opportunity to Turn This 3/4 BR, 3.5 Bth Colonial Into Your Dream Home! 3700 Sq Ft With Spacious Rms Perfect for Entertaining.Det 1.5 Garage. SD#15.Great Location Near All. You Don't Want to Miss This!...$1,599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

Rooms Wanted

RESPONSIBLE PERSON LOOKING for Room to Rent in either Uniondale, Freeport, Hempstead or Baldwin. Non-Smoker, Reliable, Quiet and Very Nice . Please Call/ Text 929-620-9363

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern

Our floor is expanding

Q. Last fall we had the walls removed between our living room, dining room and kitchen. We had a new kitchen installed with an island plus a wall of cabinets. Now the new flooring is rising at the seams, everywhere. We have a heated floor, and the flooring was specially chosen because it clicks together and “floats.” We were told that with the floor being able to move, it would be better with the heated floor. What caused this, and what can we do?

A. Your floor is expanding, and the ridges at the seams are rising, because the floor has nowhere else to expand to. This problem is common, and was caused by the floor being limited from expanding because the cabinets and island, along with heavy furniture placed over the finished floor, keep the floor from expanding when the heat is on. Wetting the floor to clean it also causes expansion, and should be limited or not done with water at all.

Solving this problem is easier said than done. Basically, anywhere the floor is unable to move defeats the purpose, and only by freeing up the floor will the problem work itself out. There’s a simple wall molding that our ancestors used that seems to be generally forgotten. Even though I include this detail in most of the drawings I prepare, I rarely see this last little strip of molding being installed. What the molding does is act like a gap cover, since properly installed flooring has a quarter- to halfinch gap at the edges of the floor, including around a fixed island and around the room’s perimeter. The whole perimeter will need to be cut so the trim molding will need to be added, unless the vertical trim board has been installed with a space, in which case the flooring has to be able to float (slide back and forth) under the vertical wallboard trim.

Our ancestors were very observant of nature, and skilled finish carpenters passed along their knowledge of the way materials behave. I worked for a finish carpenter while in high school, and learned that molding and trim weren’t just a finishing touch, but also a necessity to hide the places where materials needed room to expand and contract, at ceilings, floors, stairs and doors. Miracle materials have come along since then that were supposed to change the industry, like plastic moldings that are more temperature stable, but nature never disappoints. Natural or not, materials all have to work together, whether it’s the way they react to moisture, sunlight, heat or cold.

You’re going to need to get the contractor to organize the flooring installer and the finish carpenter to coordinate cutting the floor, and either install the shoe molding or space the vertical trim baseboard so the floor moves and adjusts underneath, even at the island and kitchen cabinet bases. Hopefully, the flooring was installed over a moisture-proof expansion membrane. Then enjoy your floor.

Announcements

PUBLIC NOTICE WE, Edward & Lisa Castellano, bring forth our land patent benefits. The complete Patent can be viewed at landpatentpower.com

Announcements

SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS!

Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

FINDS UNDER $100

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid.

SYL-LEE ANTIQUES

www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

Finds Under $100

CLARINET: AMATI ACL201 VGC, used very little by an adult. $99. (516) 486-2363

KEGERATOR FOR HOME. excellent condition, black, w24" x h37", $99. Oceanside area. 516-382-8315.

REFRIGERATOR: 10.0 CU. ft. Avanti, Model FF1OB0W, Works Fantastic.$100. 516-236-1961

VINTAGE BUESCHER ALTO Sax with case, playable. $95. (516) 486-2363

SERVICES

Cable/TV/Wiring

SWITCH TO DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport pack included for a limited time! Hurry, call for details: 1-866-782-4069

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Handyman HANDYMAN Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated. Licensed and Insured. 30-Year Nassau County Resident. Friendly Frank Phone/Text 516-238-2112 E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

Home Improvement

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/ Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. 516-599-1011.

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV SPORTS PACK – 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions

Reflections on the special election

It isn’t often that a congressional race becomes the center of national attention. But that was the case in the campaign between Tom Suozzi and Mazi Pilip to succeed the disgraced George Santos in the 3rd Congressional District.

In less than 12 months in office, Santos became a joke — a very sick joke. After the House of Representatives voted to expel him in December, Gov. Kathy Hochul set a special election for Feb. 13.

pETER KInG

Under state election law, candidates in a special election are selected by party leaders. Not surprisingly, Democrats selected Tom Suozzi, a seasoned veteran of the political wars who had represented the district in Congress for three terms before giving up his seat to make an unsuccessful gubernatorial primary run against Hochul in 2022.

Nassau GOP Chairman Joe Cairo set up a selection committee (that I was part of) that interviewed 22 potential candidates, and overwhelmingly recommended Pilip. Not wanting to repeat the Santos calamity, Cairo had Pilip vetted by several firms, and she passed with flying colors.

IIOrdinarily it would be a gamble for a relative newcomer who had served barely one term in the County Legislature to run against a veteran like Suozzi, but Pilip personified the American dream. She’d escaped from Ethiopia to Israel with her family when she was 12, and served in an elite parachute unit in the Israel Defense Forces. She was highly educated, married a Ukrainian cardiologist, moved to the United States and raised seven children in Great Neck. She was the first Republican ever re-elected in the 10th Legislative District.

Pilip was the new running against the old. She was coming off a solid victory against the odds in a Democratic district, while Suozzi had lost badly to Hochul in the primary. Pilip was the legal immigrant who supported strong border security, challenging the candidate of the party that had allowed more than 8 million illegal migrants into the country, many of whom were overwhelming New York City and the parts of Queens that fall in the 3rd District. She was the candidate who was endorsed by the Border Patrol Agents’ union, while Suozzi had recently boasted of throwing Immigration and Customs Enforcement out of Nassau County when he was county executive. Pilip, a

trained soldier, supported strong defense at a time when Israel was at war with Hamas, Russia had invaded Ukraine and China was threatening Taiwan.

Though the Democrats had a significant registration edge over Republicans, 39 percent to 28 percent, President Biden’s popularity was at record lows, and Suozzi was on record saying he supported Biden “100 percent.”

heard there was real concern in the Suozzi camp right up to Election Day.

Pilip campaigned tirelessly, and was making strong inroads. Suozzi countered by separating himself from prevailing Democratic positions on immigration, border security and support for police and didn’t seek Biden’s endorsement.

In the campaign’s closing days, every published poll had the race within the margin of error. A Republican poll had Pilip up by 5 points. Suozzi never got above 50 percent in any poll, a bad sign for a virtual incumbent. Democratic sources and some friendly reporters told me there was real concern in the Suozzi camp right up to Election Day. When the numbers were in, though, Suozzi won, 54 percent to 46 percent.

It’s still early, but my preliminary thoughts are that:

■ The snowstorm on Election Day hurt Republicans, but not enough to make the

difference.

■ Suozzi effectively managed to separate himself in the eyes of the voters from the sins of his party on immigration and support for the police.

■ Democratic congressional campaign committees provided extensive financial support to Suozzi early on.

■ Though Pilip actually garnered a higher percentage of votes against Suozzi than former President Donald Trump did against Biden in 2020, she couldn’t overcome the built-in Democratic registration edge.

■ Cairo and the Nassau Republican organization worked hard and effectively, but Pilip didn’t receive financial support from national Republicans comparable to what Suozzi received from Democrats.

■ Pilip was handicapped by having to campaign against the backdrop of the antics of congressional Republicans like Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Green, who come across as a gang that can’t shoot straight.

Suozzi won. No complaints. No excuses. But Pilip ran an excellent and courageous campaign, and has an excellent political future.

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

Check your Medicare statement carefully

f a poll were to be taken, I would have to be the last person on this planet who thinks that government is a perfect institution. I respect the FBI and the CIA, and I even trust the IRS. As a senior citizen, I have always considered Medicare one of the finest agencies we have, but some new facts have emerged that have convinced me that it is a sloppy and careless government behemoth.

JERRY KREMER

My loss of faith in the folks who run Medicare started about three months ago, when I opened up my wife, Suzan’s, periodic statements of money spent on her medical needs. I quickly noticed that Medicare had approved $14,300 for a Texas company named Pretty in Pink Boutique. There was a claim for the sale of 600 urinary catheters over a 60-day period to my wife.

I’m happy that Suzan is physically well and by no means has any need for a warehouse full of catheters. Within minutes of discovering that Medicare had approved and paid for all of them, I

placed a call to the agency’s general number. I was connected to a woman named Gladys, who listened patiently to my complaint and, at my request, I was transferred to a Fraud Unit.

The person there noted my complaint, and assured me that it would be passed up the bureaucratic chain, to make sure there was a record of the payment, which was obviously fraudulent. A few days, later I received my periodic Medicare statement, and immediately noticed that Medicare had paid a company in Chicago for a coronavirus vaccine that I had allegedly received. That seemed strange, because I had gotten my shot at a local pharmacy, not connected to any company in Illinois.

In a farreaching scam, people everywhere are getting billed for catheters.

It seems that a woman named Linda Hennis, a resident of suburban Chicago, was checking her January Medicare statement when she noticed that a company she had never heard of had been paid about $12,000 for 2,000 catheters. She had never needed, or received, any catheters. They had been sold by a company called, guess what, Pretty in Pink Boutique.

the catheter billings. She would not confirm whether the claims had been paid. She described Medicare billing scams as “one of these problems that is ever-present and ever frustrating.”

Not to be deterred, I placed another call to the Medicare Fraud Unit, and they dutifully noted my concern about another improper payment for medical services. Satisfied that I had performed my civic duty, I turned my attention back to my law practice and other pursuits. My satisfaction lasted about 48 hours, until I spotted a New York Times article titled “Staggering Rise in Catheter Bills Suggests Medicare Scam.”

It seems that Ms. Hennis and my wife are among the 450,000 Medicare beneficiaries whose accounts were billed for catheters in 2023, up from 50,000 in previous years. It turns out that the massive increase in billing for catheters included $2 billion charged by seven high-volume suppliers, which was the equivalent of nearly one-fifth of all Medicare spending on supplies in 2023. Doctors, state insurance departments and health care groups around the country said this spike in claims for catheters that were never delivered suggests that it is not only a scam, but a far-reaching one.

What is the government doing? Dara Corrigan, who runs Medicare’s Center for Program Integrity, declined to say whether the agency was investigating

It turns out that Pretty in Pink Boutique billed Medicare at least $267 million for catheters between October 2022 and December 2023. The vast majority of the suspicious claims came from seven companies, many of which had shared executives. One of the businesses had a working phone number, but no calls were returned. The Pretty in Pink Boutique has a telephone number connected to a body shop.

Other scams are getting public attention, such as phony Covid vaccine claims, which are slowly surfacing. Regardless of its denials or bureaucratic double-speak, Medicare is failing the millions of Americans who rely on the system to be accurate and honest. Every dollar lost to some con artist is a dollar meant to pay for a legitimate health care claim.

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.

HeraLd editoriaL

Let’s be sure we don’t relive some of our history

Black History Month is a chance for us to celebrate the many contributions African-Americans have made to the country. They’ve done this despite discrimination and oppression — something even Long Island, in the past, was not immune to.

For example, when we think of slavery, we think of the Deep South before the Civil War. In fact, slavery existed in New York until 1827, and the state had more enslaved people than all the New England states combined, many of them on Long Island.

At the start of the American revolution, there were roughly 10,000 enslaved Black Americans living on Long Island — nearly half of the state’s total enslaved population. While they were allowed more mobility and financial opportunities than their counterparts in the South, the claim that slavery wasn’t as bad in the North is largely inaccurate.

Throughout the 1700s, New York lawmakers created the Black Codes, which historian and author richard Moss — in his book, “Slavery on Long Island” — claimed were “the harshest criminal laws and penalties enacted by northern colonists.” Punishments for striking a white person included two weeks’ imprisonment and corporal punish-

Letters

Leave trans kids alone

To the Editor:

ment.

Enslaved people were forbidden from gathering in groups of more than three, and prevented from owning property. Children born to enslaved mothers were automatically enslaved at birth. And testimony by enslaved people was inadmissible in court.

One common practice at the time on Long Island and New York was shipping unruly African-Americans to the Caribbean slave colonies. Conditions on islands such as Barbados and Jamaica were particularly brutal, with less than a third of slaves surviving on some plantations.

Even after slavery ended in New York, discrimination did not. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the number of AfricanAmericans in the Town of Oyster Bay dwindled from roughly 17 percent to less than a half-percent as racist real estate practices and federal policies prioritized homeownership for whites while driving Black Americans — and other minorities — from the area through a mix of intimidation, legislation, and rising property rates.

When Levittown — long touted as the model of the modern American suburb — was created in 1947, non-whites were expressly forbidden from owning any of the 17,400 new homes, with the deeds

Bruce Blakeman couldn’t care less about girls’ sports.

By signing an executive order to ban teams that allow transgender girls and women from playing in Nassau County athletic facilities last week, Blakeman continued to distract from his shirking of responsibilities as Nassau County Executive.

Since his marginal win over Laura Curran in 2021, after campaigning on the promise of $128 million in tax cuts, Blakeman has rejected every cut in annual budget proposals.

In 2022, amid the highest rates of new Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations in the county, he issued a series of orders against mask mandates in schools.

What has he been doing instead in his capacity as executive? Attacking the participation of the county’s small percentage of transgender girls and women in athletics, a right that is supported by experts in the field, including the National Women’s Law Center. Blakeman’s order does not mention transgender boys and men — instead he hides his under-researched and dangerous order behind a thin veil of Victorian-era patriarchal values and personal opinion.

“Part of good government is listening to your constituents,” Blakeman said in a recent interview. Listen to this constituent, Bruce: Do your job, and leave trans kids alone.

CArTEr ALLEN Garden City

themselves preventing ownership by “any person other than members of the Caucasian race,” according to a 2011 research paper by Baruch College Sociology professor robert Courtney Smith. robert Moses, the urban planner and public official who is best known today for creating Jones Beach State Park and the state parkway system, designed Long Island parkways to make them impassable for buses, frequently the only mode of transportation for non-white and lowincome families. While some latter-day historians question the validity of this claim, Moses was also known to have fought against integrating public swimming pools in the 1920s.

African-Americans have continuously defied the odds and obstacles set against them — whether it be Jackie robinson playing Major League Baseball, or mathematicians Creola Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson helping NASA put men on the moon. recognizing those contributions — and learning from our mistakes of the past can open the door for even greater accomplishments in the future, as we look to remove more barriers.

The late Maya Angelou once said that “history, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived. But if faced with courage, need not be lived again.”

Kreiss’s column

last week, “It’s Library Lovers Month — borrow a book.” Libraries are the greatest thing. They open the world to anyone willing to look. Not everyone bothers to look, but those who want to have the opportunity.

Writing climate change into the K-12 curriculum

waLaN sINGer

e are living in the midst of a climate emergency, with the expectation that conditions will significantly worsen in the near future. In January, NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed that 2023 was the hottest year ever recorded. In New York state, climate change is impacting the environment, society and the economy as extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity. Floods are more frequent, and the growing season for crops is changing. Climate disasters have cost the northeastern United States over $80 billion since 1980. In response to the threat of a climate catastrophe, there is a renewed push to include climate awareness in the K-12 school curriculum. New Jersey was the first state to mandate climate change lessons in its public schools. New York State Senate Bill S278A would amend state education law, “establishing a course of instruction and learning expectations on climate education in all public pre-kindergarten, elementary and secondary schools.” There is a com-

panion bill in the Assembly, A1559A.

Over 200 educational professionals and organizations representing tens of thousands of members have signed a letter in support of the state legislation. It reads in part:

“New York State has set ambitious climate change adaptation and mitigation goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). This Act commits the state to 100% zero-emission electricity by 2040, and a reduction of at least 85% below 1990-level (greenhouse gas) emissions by 2050. The CLCPA implementation plan recognizes that actions to address climate change will be needed at scale and across all sectors of the state, including ‘the need for P-12 curricula to include climate change education,’ as well as ‘a coordinated effort on outreach and education across all sectors of the economy.’ Addressing climate change is an educational project, and we stand ready as educational professionals to assist New York State as it addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly changing climate.”

tincludes a guide for teaching about climate and climate change. The Climate and Resilience Education Task Force offers a toolkit for supporting climate action and education.

he New York City Department of Education isn’t waiting for legislative action.

While New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and California want to expand student understanding of the threat of climate change to the world as we know it, a number of states governed by Republican Party climate change deniers, including Florida, Texas and Virginia, are committed to ignorance and obfuscation. In Connecticut, Republican State Rep. John Piscopo is demanding that lessons on climate change include unsupported challenges to the scientific consensus that human action and the emission of fossil fuels into the atmosphere are the primary engine of global warming. Piscopo charges that scientists and teachers who want a climate-awareness curriculum are trying to indoctrinate students.

different grade levels, such as “Rain School,” by James Rumford, a picture book for kindergarten through thirdgrades about children living in the town of Kélo, in the Central African country of Chad. Every year their school must be rebuilt because the building is destroyed by powerful storms.

Monica Pagan-Guzman, who teaches third grade at Public School 83 in East Harlem and took part in the program, started a lunch club in which students discuss climate change.

This month, the Department of Education and the United Federation of Teachers co-hosted a climate change training session for up to 500 educators.

The National Wildlife Federation is already asking teachers to pledge to teach at least 10 hours a year to promote climate change awareness. Its website

Letters

We need to keep that going, and not be controlled by closed-minded people.

You may not know that about one-third of Nassau County libraries allow adult patrons to borrow a telescope just like a book. I have been promoting the Library Telescope Program for almost eight years now, and I work with 17 Nassau County libraries so far.

Everything I do is free to the library. It just needs to buy the telescope and various accessories directly from vendors, totaling about $450. I help by modifying the telescope to make it easy to use and transport, and provide maintenance as needed. I also provide staff and patron training on how to handle and use the telescope, as well as periodic astronomy-related presentations. In March I will be doing eclipse presentations at eight libraries, and occasionally I do Moon Parties as well. All at no cost.

There are now over 1,000 libraries running the Library Telescope Program, mostly in the U.S. and Canada, but also in other countries.

TOM LYNCH Lynbrook

A neighborly winter surprise

To the Editor:

Looking out my bedroom window, noticing the snowfall had just about stopped, I decided to gear up and start the removal process. As I was clearing off the car, readying to start the shoveling, I noticed that part of my front walk has been cleared. Looking even closer, I saw a body working on the front entranceway. My neighbor has often started snow removal for me as I have done for him, so I thought for sure it was either him or one of his sons helping out.

As I got closer to the sidewalk, I realized for sure that this helper, a young man, was unknown to me. I asked why he was helping, and he said, “I got up early, noticed the snowfall and decided to do some shoveling.” He was finishing up the last section of sidewalk, so I went inside to grab some cash to give him, but when I came back outside, he was gone. Off to job No. 2, I suppose.

Whoever you are, thank you!

PHIL GRELLA Rockville Centre

The New York City Department of Education isn’t waiting for legislative action. Last summer, 39 city elementaryschool teachers took part in a four-day training on “Integrating Climate Education in N.Y.C. Public Schools.” The workshop included children’s literature that teachers can use in their classrooms at

Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, human-caused climate change has impacted the globe with the burning of fossil fuels. The debate in classrooms and the political realm should not be over whether climate change is happening, or to what extent it puts human civilization at risk, but rather how societies and individuals should respond. On my website, alansinger.net, I have high school-level lesson material aligned with my book “Teaching Climate History: There is No Planet B.” The package includes documents for use in both science and social studies classes.

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

Framework by Tim Baker

At Ogden Elementary School’s Father-Daughter and Special Person Dance — Valley Stream

#1

LeahTozer

#5 Company Production Leader

#3 Company Unit Leader

#1 Placed Referrals Company Wide

#1 Closed Listing Internet Lead

Long Beach Office

#1 Listing Leader

#1 Production Leader

#1 Unit Leader