Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald 01-19-2023

Also serving Bay Park

Community is at the core of Lynch’s mission

By MARK NolAN mnolan@liherald.com

When Paul Lynch was hired by the Lynbrook School District in 2009, he was overcome by a sense of community.

On Jan. 11, Lynch was named the next district superintendent. He will succeed Melissa Burak, who is retiring after 30 years in Lynbrook on June 30.

“I grew up right in Baldwin, so you know, there’s just a lot of simpatico,” said Lynch, 58. “I love Lynbrook.”

Former Superintendent Santo Barbarino told Lynch in 2009 that community is what makes Lyn-

brook a special place. Lynch quickly found out for himself.

“There is a sincerity about people here,” Lynch recalls Barbarino telling him. “People care about people. Kids are kind and nice. They hold doors, and ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ still exist here.”

When Lynch was named superintendent last week, his nephew James Lynch, a Lynbrook native with three children in the district, told the Board of Education that his uncle was taught at the dining room table to believe in values of honesty and ethics.

East Rockaway Army veteran Frank Luisi dies at 96

By BEN FIEBERT bfiebert@liherald.com

It was evident at Frank Luisi’s wake that the East Rockaway resident and Army veteran had touched the hearts of hundreds of people.

Luisi died on Dec. 23 at the age of 96, of asbestos poisoning and old age. He lived a long and eventful life that started Nov. 19, 1926.

Page after page of names in the guestbook at his wake made his impact clear. “We were astounded by how many people showed up that day,” said his daughter Denise White. “When you go into a funeral home, you write into a book, and we had

seven pages, front and back, filled up with notes.”

Along with those notes, White sent 100 acknowledgement cards to thank people for coming, and she had to order 100 more.

“This woman who I worked with for the wake said, ‘I couldn’t imagine how many people were in that church,’” White said. “It makes you realize what kind of person Frank was.”

Before moving to East Rockaway later in life, Luisi went to St. Michael’s, in Brooklyn, and then attended Brooklyn Technical High School.

When he was 18, he and his wife, Helen, were married — at Fort Bragg, North Carolina,

because Frank was in the Army. The young couple kicked off a lineage that is still growing today.

“While he was in the Army, my dad would box,” White said. “He actually won the Golden Gloves.” According to White, Helen gave Frank an ultimatum, which was “boxing or me,” and Frank chose her.

After they settled down as a newly married couple, Frank went to work for the American Can Company as a mechanic, working on ACC’s big machines. Frank and Helen moved to East Rockaway in 1963, and Frank became a construction inspector for roads in Nassau County.

In his free time, Frank played

baseball. “His name was well known in Brooklyn as he was a great baseball player,” White said. “He loved baseball, and he’d go across the street from his house to play in a park. My mom would yell at him to come eat dinner, and he’d always be late.”

Along with baseball, Frank loved to travel with Helen. They visited Greece, Hawaii, Italy and

other locations around the world.

Frank and Helen were the proud parents of Jean, Denise, Frank Jr. and Michele, and they had 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Mike White, Frank’s grandson, said his earliest memory of his grandfather was of him always carrying Tic Tacs in his

Mark Nolan/Herald

PAUl lYNch wIll succeed Melissa Burak as Lynbrook superintendent.

LynbRook HigH School Horizon newspaper staff won several awards from the Empire State Scholastic Press Association, including Best Overall Newspaper.

Student honored by future scientist academy

East Rockaway High School senior Mikayla Cirillo was awarded the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence by the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists.

The award is in recognition of Cirillo’s successful completion and outstanding performance as a delegate in the Congress of Future Medical Leaders. This is an honors-only program with a strict academic requirement designed to motivate and direct top students who

aspire to be physicians and medical scientists. Cirillo was inspired to apply for this prestigious program by her school counselor, Ms. Mantle.

As a delegate at the Congress, Cirillo interacted with luminaries of a wide variety of medical and scientific fields, including Nobel Laureates and pioneers in research and cutting-edge technology. She also completed a 22-hour lecture and visited a medical center to witness a live surgery.

Horizon wins Best Newspaper, other awards

Horizon, the Lynbrook High School student-run newspaper, continued its award-winning streak with several accolades, including Best Overall Newspaper, this year.

The high-quality work on display in Horizon was submitted to the Empire State Scholastic Press Association, a part of Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communication. Each year, Lynbrook competes against schools from across the state for honors.

In addition to being awarded Best

Overall Newspaper, the Horizon staff also earned other accolades. Amintta Ragavanis won Best Artwork; Amelia Pollicino won Best Illustration/Graphic; Cassandra Levinson won Best Written Work in a Newspaper goes to Cassandra Levinson for “Crisis Escalates in Ukraine”; Katie Chiulli won Best Editorial for “The Met Gala Has to Stop”; Julia Swerdin won Best Feature Story for “Ms. Moller Just Keeps Running”; and Alexis Raynor won Best Sports Story for “Girls Varsity Flag Football Makes History at LHS”.

East Rockaway HigH School senior and Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence recipient Mikayla Cirillo with School Counselor, Ms. Rebecca Mantle.

Courtesy East Rockaway School District

tHE

Courtesy Lynbrook Public Schools

Lynbrook senior named Regeneron Scholar

by beN fIebeRt bfiebert@liherald.com

Lynbrook High School senior, Sean Krivitsky, has been named a Scholar in the 2023 Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest science and math competition.

“It was very exciting,” Krivitsky said. “It was good to have everyone around me in the research program be there when I found out that I was recognized.”

“Each year, nearly 2,000 students submit original research in critically important scientific fields of study and are judged by leading experts in their fields,” Gayle Kansagor said in a press release.

“The Regeneron Science Talent Search focuses on identifying, inspiring and engaging the nation’s most promising young scientists who are creating the ideas that could solve society’s most urgent challenges.”

Krivitsky is one of only 300 students from across the nation to earn the honor of becoming a Scholar. His experiment was called “Investigating Flavonoids as a Potential Therapeutic Against the Degenerative Effects of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Drosophila melanogaster.” This project involved the use of fruit flies to test the effect of flavonoids — found in various plant-based foods — on slowing the degeneration caused by ALS.

“ALS is well known for its effect on muscle control, but my research focuses on its effects on learning and memory,” Krivitsky said. “And also on the ability of flavonoids to reduce the effects.”

Matthew Sarosy, principal of the Lyn-

brook High School, was thrilled that one of his students was honored. “We’re incredibly proud of both Sean to be individually recognized and then also on behalf of the entire science research pro-

gram that Sean now represents,” he said.

Krivitsky’s interest in science started in middle school where he was part of a science program there. “Through that program, I was able to explore the differ-

top five categories in the competition

Behavioral and Social Sciences

Medicine and Health

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Neuroscience

Environmental Science

ent fields of science,” he said.

Krivitsky’s research began during his sophomore year, when he started to discover the best techniques for testing his hypothesis. In his submission for the Science Talent Search, Krivitsky completed a research paper on his project. His exemplary test scores and grades were taken into consideration.

Krivitsky’s findings can eventually lead to real-world applications, as more flavonoids are tested to potentially lead to a treatment for ALS. While Krivitsky is not yet committed to attend a particular college, he hopes to study biochemistry.

“I am very happy to be recognized for my project,” Krivitsky said. “A future in science is a career I would like to pursue.”

On Jan. 24, 40 of the 300 scholars will be named Regeneron Science Talent Search finalists. The finalists will then compete for more than $1.8 million in awards during a weeklong competition in Washington, D.C., taking place March 9-15.

Former Lynbrook charity director sentenced for fraud

A Merrick woman was sentenced last week to over two years in prison for embezzlement, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Wafa Abboud, 55, of Merrick, alongside several co-conspirators, used multiple schemes to steal over $1 million from Human First, a nonprofit agency formerly in Lynbrook, devoted to assisting developmentally disabled youth, in order to spend the funds on luxury items.

At a federal courthouse on Jan. 11, district judge Edward Korman sentenced Abboud to 33 months in prison, and ordered her to forfeit $836,000 and pay over $1.4 million in restitution to Human First, which she led for 5 years.

Abboud was convicted of embezzlement charges following a trial in July 2019.

The attorney’s office said from January 2011 until her termination in May 2016, Abboud was the director of Human First, a nonprofit corporation that provides services to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.

Abboud exercised nearly complete control over the charity’s finances. In her tenure, the nonprofit received millions of dollars from the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

Abboud is said to have entered into an agreement with co-defendant Marcelle Bailey, where Abboud allowed Human First to pay Bailey’s company MPB Management Services approximately $16,000 per month in “consulting” fees.

Bailey allegedly deposited half of each monthly disbursement into bank accounts controlled by Abboud, who used the money to fund a lavish lifestyle. Abboud withdrew around $120,000 from the accounts in cash and wired thousands

of dollars in accounts oversees. Abboud stole approximately $420,000 over the course of nearly four years.

Abboud also conspired with an additional co-defendant, Rami Taha, to steal $400,000 through a scheme in which Abboud issued overpayments to contractors performing wok on Human First properties with the knowledge that the overpaid funds would be given back to her. The stolen money was used to finance the down payment and renovation of her residence.

Breon Peace, a U.S. attorney, said what Abboud did is shameful. “The defendant has been held accountable for betraying the most vulnerable among us whom she was entrusted to serve and treating the nonprofit organization bank accounts as though they were her own,” he added.

Bailey pleaded guilty to embezzlement and bank fraud in Dec. 2017, and was sentenced last year to 33 months in prison. Taha also pleaded guilty in May 2019 to embezzlement. A fourth defendant, Arkadiusz Sweichowicz, pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in Sept. 2018. Taha and Sweichowicz are still awaiting sentencing.

Herald file photo

Wafa abboud, the former director of the charity, Human First, was sentenced last week, after she stole over $1 million from the nonprofit agency. The charity had a location on 128 Atlantic Ave. in Lynbrook.

Courtesy Matthew Sarosy

SeaN KRIvItSKy, a Lynbrook High School student, was declared a semifinalist in the Regeneron Science Talent Search.

DEC: Steer clear of marine mammals

By MARK NOLAN mnolan@liherald.com

As sightings of marine mammals increase in the winter months, state officials are urging onlookers to resist the temptation to approach these often cutelooking creatures, such as fuzzy seals.

The state’s environmental conservation department cautioned that marine mammals are wild — not stuffed animals — and they should be treated like museum exhibits.

Marine mammal encounters with people increase this time of year along Long Island’s coasts. The DEC urged people to avoid marine mammals — including whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seals — even if the animal appears injured.

“New York’s marine waters provide vital nursery and foraging grounds for whales, dolphins, and seals that migrate across the Atlantic Coast,” DEC commissioner Basil Seggos said. “Observing these animals in the wild can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. However, DEC urges New Yorkers to keep their distance and refrain from attempting to intervene during stranding events.”

The primary reason to stay away from a marine mammal on the beach is to avoid interfering with wildlife. Also, state

It’s Your MoneY

By Jonathan Wolfsohn MBA, CFP, EA, ATA

SOME EDUCATOR EXPENSES MAY BE TAX DEDUCTIBLE

The educator expense deduction allows eligible teachers and administrators to deduct part of the cost of technology, supplies and training from their taxes. They can only claim this deduction for expenses that were not reimbursed by their employer, a grant or other source.

Who is an eligible educator? The taxpayer must be a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, or aide. They must also work at least 900 hours per school year in a school that provides elementary or secondary education as detennined under state law.

Educators can deduct up to $250 of trade or business expenses paid or incurred during the 2022 tax year that were not reimbursed. As taxpayers prepare to file, they should remember to keep receipts after making any purchase to support claiming this deduction with their tax records. The deduction is $500 if both taxpayers are eligible educators and file their return using the status married filing jointly. These taxpayers cannot deduct more than $250 each.

Deductible expenses include professional development course fees; books; supplies; computer equipment, including related software and services; other equipment and materials used in the classroom; personal protective equipment, disinfectant, and other supplies used for the prevention of the spread of corona virus Expenses for COVID-19 protective items include, but are not limited to face masks; disinfectant; hand soap; hand sanitizer; disposable gloves; tape, paint, or chalk to guide social distancing; physical barriers, such as clear plexiglass; air purifiers; and other items recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to be used for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19..

and federal law protects marine mammals, making it illegal to run up to a stranded seal and pet it like a tourist at a gift shop.

“Stay away at least 150 feet,” said Artie Kopelman, president of the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island, which is based in West Sayville.

Kopelman, who works extensively with marine mammals, added that keeping pets such as dogs away from marine mammals is also a must. If a marine animal appears injured, bystanders could call numerous agencies, and trained professionals would arrive to help, Kopelman said.

“If the animal looks injured or is disabled, the best thing for you to do is to call for help,” Kopelman said. “The animal could just be resting. Animals need rest, too.”

Harbor seals are most commonly seen along Long Island’s saltwater coasts and in bays during the winter. The height of the season in New York is typically March through May, but they can be observed as early as November and December.

Seals often lie on rocks and sandbars to rest, socialize, and regulate their body temperature, according to the DEC.

Interfering with their natural resting can cause illness, injury or even death, state officials said. Viewing from a legally safe distance is permitted, they added. The DEC said signs of stress in seals include when they raise their flippers, show their teeth, yawn, and eat sand and rocks.

When contacted about possibly injured marine mammals, agencies work collaboratively to quickly arrive at the location to provide aid.

“Stranded animals will need professional medical care, and the best way to help is to immediately contact the Stranding Hotline (at (631) 369-9829),” Seggos said.

If anyone is observed harassing or endangering marine life, contact the environmental conservation police’s 24-hour hotline at (844) 332-3267.

As for larger marine mammals like whales and dolphins, federal and state law requires people to maintain a safe and legal distance from them on water and land. Violators could face up to one year in jail and/or fines of up to $20,000.

Attempting to help push an animal back toward the water may seem like it’s helping, but it puts the animal and person

file photo/Christina Daly HARBOR SeALS fRequeNt Long Island’s coastal waters, especially in the winter and early spring.

WHiLe SeALS MAy look adorable and approachable, it is best for the seal — and you — to admire it from a safe distance of at least 150 feet.

in danger.

The DEC said entering the water with live distressed animals, and even large carcasses, is extremely hazardous. Unpredictable movement by the animal, the force of the ocean surf, and harsh weather conditions can lead to serious human injury or death.

Most of the time, calling a hotline and remaining at the site is the best way to help, officials said.

“Most of these animals are extremely compromised and an inexperienced person could cause more damage to the animal,” New York Marine Rescue Center program director Maxine Montello said.

“We encourage people to help by immediately calling the New York stranding hotline to report all sightings or standings of marine mammals and sea turtles.”

If you see marine mammals on the shore or in the surf and suspect an injury, never approach the animal. Call one of the agencies listed.

■ New York Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at (631) 369-9829

■ Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island at (631) 319-6003 ■ Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation’s 24-hour hotline at (631) 369-9829

Subscription rates: $60 for 1 year. Annual Subscription Rates, $9.75 per quarter auto-pay or $50 one-time payment within Nassau County or $60 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2023 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Herald file photo/Bill Bleyer

Herald

lynbrook/east rockaway

Hempstead taking measures to protect data

Town authorizes $59K firewall security review as part of continuing measures

There may not be a government official unaware of the dangers posted by cyberattacks.

The ramifications of the September 2022 ransomware attack on Suffolk County continue to send officials racing to upgrade software and security features. The industry mantra — “It’s not if but when” is a guiding principle for network security.

The Town of Hempstead unanimously approved spending $59,200 for a firewall security contract on Jan. 10 as part of its ongoing information technology security.

While town officials were reluctant to discuss specifics of the contract, the approved resolution authorizes Computer Integrated Serves of New York City to review the town’s “firewall security configuration”.

“As hackers and scammers become more prevalent, the importance of cybersecurity continues to increase,” said Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin.

The town would not provide details of the contract or its existing IT security. A statement from the town said the firewall contract was part of “routine security contracts” updated annually.

“There are numerous other methods the town employs to maintain the integrity of the data, which are understandably kept confidential,” the statement read.

An audit of the town’s IT systems conducted by the New York State comptroller

from Jan. 2018 through Oct. 2021 was largely positive of Hemsptead’s security. In an official response from the town dated Aug. 2, 2022, Hempstead Commissioner of Information and Technology Arthur R. Primm, Jr. said the town has “implemented many new procedures and programs that have alleviated most of the concerns” in the audit.

The comptroller’s audit acknowledged that the town has worked to improve IT security, stating that Hempstead officials “agreed with our recommendations and indicated that they were in the process of implementing corrective action.”

In the written statement to The Herald, Hempstead stated it has “longstanding extensive security procedures to keep both employees’ and residents’ information secure… We take cybersecurity very seriously in Hempstead Town and we maintain a robust, adaptable cybersecurity defense plan.”

Clavin reiterated that the town’s goal of thwarting cyberattacks remains foremost. “(Hackers’) attempts are growing both in frequency and shrewdness, and the Town of Hempstead is committed to protecting our residents’ information by continuously updating and improving our cyber defenses.”

“We take cybersecurity very seriously in Hempstead Town and we maintain a robust, adaptable cybersecurity defense

plan.”

–Mark Nolan

Courtesy Gov. Hochul

Municipalities statewide continue to address cybersecurity concerns. Gov. Hochul overlooks the work of a cybersecurity expert.

Baron inspires children, one poem at a time

By MARK NOLAN mnolan@liherald.com

Lindamichelle Baron wrote her first poem when she was 6. And it was a hit piece, making fun of her cousin Gerard’s big ears.

“I have a cousin named Gerard, I think his ears are very odd.”

Upon hearing those words, Gerard grew out his hair to cover his ears.

With that first venture into slant rhyme, Baron discovered the thrill — and impact — of the written word. “That’s when I saw the power of poetry.”

Poetry has been embedded in Baron’s life ever since. She leaned on writing to support her through teasing in elementary school, and ultimately made a career through verse.

Now 72, she is the first poet laureate for the Town of Hempstead. Her mission is to bring poetry to every corner, including Malverne — where she presented previously — and West Hempstead — where she has yet to recite her poems.

“This is just absolutely amazing,” said Baron, the author of three poetry books and an associate professor at York College.

She was ahead of her time, throwing shade at childhood rivals decades before social media existed. She eventually developed poetry that inspires. Blessed with an infectious laugh and sense of humor and wonderment about the world,

Baron infuses verse into just about everything she does.

Poetry has been the constant throughout her life.

“People who know me know I’ve been in the community and library and organizations for decades,” she said. “They know my energy, my love of life and language and people — it’s all embedded in my poetry.”

A former New York City teacher, Baron became a professor who teaches aspiring teachers. And she insists her students understand poetry shouldn’t be relegated to English class.

“So much of what I taught used poetry,” Baron said. “Even if it was math. Teachers would say they don’t have the time. You embed poetry into everything you do.”

Budget cuts cost Baron her city teaching job, leading her to become an educational salesperson until 1988. She made a name for herself throughout the tri-state area — not as a saleswoman, but for using rhymes to sell educational materials.

“I would use poetry in my presentations to teachers,” she said. “They saw that poetry can be used to extract contextual knowledge and get students to think critically. They kept asking me back.”

One of her books, “The Sun is On,” is recommended for middle schools by the state, and has sold more than 100,000 copies.

“So many people of so many different

backgrounds have embraced my poetry, and that makes me so happy,” Baron said. “So much of my poetry has connections to my background as a woman of African descent, but it does capture everybody.”

Living in Hempstead village, Baron has read poetry to many local groups over the years. Her desire is to bring poetry to more than just students.

“Poetry should not be conceptualized as stagnant on the page,” she said. “My goal is to promote the power of poetry and enjoyment of the gift of poetry to the entire community.”

As the town’s first poet laureate, Baron really won’t change much, if anything. She will continue to speak to children and adults at schools, libraries — pretty much anywhere and everywhere someone will listen to the beauty of poetry.

Town councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, who recommended Baron for the non-paying position, said the appointment would lead to a greater understanding of the positive power of poetry.

“Poetry is meaningful and beautiful,” Goosby said. “It’s a creative outlet that provides a way for people to express themselves.”

Baron will continue writing poetry as she always has, while paying homage to the many people who have helped her since she was young. Her father introduced her to Langston Hughes and Gwendolyn Brooks, and the family of a child she babysat for as a teenager gave her an album of Maya Angelou reciting poetry.

Baron hopes to inspire others to enjoy poetry by honoring those literary role models and her heritage. When she sees a child’s face light up as she recites a poem, she realizes she is achieving her ultimate goal of making poetry accessible.

“That makes me so happy,” Baron said. “My poetry is for the entire community.”

Courtesy Lindamichelle Baron

LINDAMICHELLE BARON HAS been named the first poet laureate for the Town of Hempstead. She has written three poetry books, and spent a lifetime sharing the beauty of poetry with anyone willing to listen.

EMMANUEL DEPAS, LEFT, Marie Pereira, Judith Hospedales and Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages, gathered at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building the day before the 13th anniversary of the 2010 Haiti earthquake to raise awareness for new immigration policy.

Migrating from Haiti, with a little support

By ANA BORRUTO aborruto@liherald.com

It’s been more than a decade since an earthquake devastated Haiti, killing more than 200,000 people, and leaving so many more thousands homeless. To this day, the Caribbean country continues to recover, all while facing other ongoing challenges such as limited access to health care, as well as poverty, political instability and violence.

While a lot of political talk in Washington is focused on what’s happening at the U.SMexico border, Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages has joined immigration law professionals to share details of an expanded program under the Biden administration intended to provide legal pathways to America for migrants from Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela as well as war-torn Ukraine.

“This is a positive development, and a humanitarian way to allow people to seek asylum,” Solages said. “We have witnessed so many people risking their lives in order to make it here in the United States.”

This new policy allows up to 30,000 individuals from these four countries to come to the United States per month for a period of up to two years —all receiving work authorization. These individuals must have an eligible sponsor, and pass a series of vetting and background checks.

To reduce overcrowding and wait times at U.S. ports of entry, those who are legal immigrants or citizens of the United

States can apply for someone in Haiti to come to America through an online application called the I-134A form, which gives that sponsor a chance to provide a declaration of financial support.

“They are basically asking you how are you going to take care of this person you are legally sponsoring, the person who is now called the beneficiary,” said Marie Pereira, founder of the Haiti Immigration Project. “Do you have the financial resources to take care of this person’s needs, from health to housing to clothing? Everything.”

Once the sponsor is approved, the beneficiary is required to submit their fingerprints and undergo an extensive background check. They also must be vaccinated for Covid-19, have a valid passport, and proof they are a Haiti native, Pereira added.

Those younger than 18 have to be accompanied by an adult who is their parent or legal guardian.

Judith Hospedales, an immigration law expert and formerly of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, said with the influx of displaced migrants in various states, the administration is trying to cut back on the issues migrants face when they arrive to the border.

Many migrants are seeking asylum — meaning they fear for their safety, or they believe they could be harmed if they stay in their home country — and want protection from another nation, like the United States.

But there are many who may not qualify for asylum status. In that case, they can

Who can become a sponsor?

Anyone who has legal status to live in the United States can sponsor a Haitian immigrant to the United States by submitting a free I-134A application.

That legal status means being a U.S. citizen, green card holder, or someone with temporary protection status.

However, sponsors should be wary of trying to bring in strangers, said Judith Hospedales. The further apart

the relationship between the sponsor and the person looking to come from Haiti, the more difficult it will be to prove that a person can be a suitable sponsor and financially responsible for the beneficiary.

To learn more, visit tinyurl.com/ SponsorHaiti.

–Ana Borruto

apply for temporary protection status, more commonly known as TPS. This status is for certain individuals who cannot return to their countries of origin because of circumstances within the country, such as those same countries not having the resources or capacity to take back their citizens at that particular time.

Emmanuel Depas, immigration attorney, founder and first president of the Haitian American Lawyers Association in New York, said prospective sponsors must take this process very seriously. Solages emphasized the importance of working with professionals like Depas when going through the sponsorship process.

“You have to say ‘yes’ with caution and understand what you’re getting into,” Depas said. “In those two years, you’re going to have to support (beneficiaries) financially, socially and help them get them acclimated to U.S. culture.

“I implore you to develop patience throughout this process.”

The Haitian American population is one of the fastest growing demographics in Nassau County, Solages said, with many living in communities like Elmont,

Freeport, Uniondale, Valley Stream and Hempstead. According to the most recent census numbers, the total Haitian population was just over 850,000 nationwide, with nearly 155,000 living in New York alone.

Haiti itself has a little more than 11 million people.

Elsie Smith has lived in the United States for 52 years, spending the last decade in Elmont. She wants to sponsor six family members who now live in Haiti — a widower father, his sister and his four kids, whose mother passed away five years ago. The children had to stop going to school last September.

Smith is grateful for the humanitarian relief program as it will give these children better opportunities in the United States.

“This is something for a country that is suffering too much, and we have so much we can offer in this country,” Smith said, through tears. “I live in a house with six bedrooms all by myself — I will provide, (the father) can get his papers for work, and the four children can go to school.”

This is something for a country that is suffering too much, and we have so much we can offer in this country.

ELSIE SMITH Haitian Elmont resident

Ana Borruto/Herald

Nassau GOP calls on George Santos to resign

By MICHAEL MALASZCZYK mmalaszczyk@liherald.com

U.S. Rep. George Santos has faced stiff opposition from his colleagues since arriving at Capitol Hill at the start of the new year. It looks like he won’t have an easy time at home, either.

Republican leaders from across the county gathered at GOP headquarters in Westbury last week calling on Santos to resign immediately amid his trail of fabrications on his work and education history, as well as the growing questions surrounding how he financed his campaign.

In fact, those in attendance — led by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman — went as far as declaring they would not work with Santos. Instead, they would direct constituent issues to newly minted U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito or U.S. Rep. Andrew Garbarino. And if they can’t go there, local Republicans would reach out to U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer or Kirsten Gillibrand — both Democrats.

“I am joined here with my colleagues in calling on George Santos’s resignation, because he cannot serve anymore,” Blakeman said, calling the congressman a “pathological liar.”

“My office will have no interaction with George Santos or his staff until he resigns. “

D’Esposito — who joined Congress the same time as Santos — made it clear through a video link from Washington

that Santos is not fit to serve.

“I think that what’s most important as a public servant is treating the public with respect and gaining authority — something that all of you behind that podium have done,” D’Esposito said, referring to his fellow Republicans at the news conference. “George Santos does not have the ability to serve here in the House of Representatives, and should resign.”

State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick took particular issue with one of the claims Santos made during his campaign — that he was Jewish, and that he was descended from Holocaust survivors. Investigations by a handful of news outlets have questioned those claims, not finding any evidence of his grandparents being anything other than Catholic, and finding no record of them being in Europe during the World War II era.

“It is a great stain on the Republican Party of Nassau County that he worked with us,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “I am particularly offended also, as a representative of the Five Towns and the Orthodox community. What he did regarding his religious status was exceptionally offensive.”

But even as his fellow Republicans were delivering these calls for him to be removed, Santos told reporters outside his Washington office that he had no intention of leaving his position. He maintains that if the 142,000 voters who elected him decide he should go, then he

will go — but they won’t get the chance to express that until 2024.

“George Santos has no business serving in Congress,” Hempstead town supervisor Don Clavin said. “On behalf of all the board members — and frankly, the 750,000 residents living in the Town of Hempstead — it’s time to go. He’s a national joke. He’s an international joke. But this joke’s got to go. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Today.”

Those were sentiments shared by Clavin’s counterpart in Oyster Bay.

“George, I’m speaking to you,” town supervisor Joe Saladino said. “It’s time to step down.”

Santos has been under fire since a New York Times expose last month challenged pretty much everything he has said about himself throughout this recent campaign, and his 2020 unsuccessful run against Tom Suozzi. Everything from education, employment, philanthropic activity, and salaries simply don’t check out.

Nassau GOP chair Joseph Cairo has taken some heat through all this, with a number of people questioning how much he knew of Santos’ past, and why there wasn’t better vetting. Cairo believed the Republican establishment there had already checked out his claims.

“He’s disgraced the House of Representatives, and we do not consider him one of our congress people,” Cairo said.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy won’t personally take action to have Santos removed, saying it’s a decision voters should make. However, the congressman is under investigation at multiple levels — including potential criminal investigation about campaign finance.

Over the weekend, U.S. Rep. James Comer — the new House Oversight Committee chair — said if Santos is found to have broken campaign finance laws, he will be removed

Michael Malaszczyk/Herald NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE Bruce Blakeman says his office will have no dealings with U.S. Rep. George Santos.

SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

HERALD SPORTS

Lynbrook thrives with family vibe

By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com

Lynbrook girls’ basketball isn’t wearing its school’s name on the front of its warmup shirts.

The three senior captains, Caityblu Cavassa, Tyla Vuotto, and Kaelyn O’Brien had a better idea that underscored what this 2022-23 team is all about.

CAYLEE DEMEO

Carey Senior Basketball

A TWO-TIME ALL-COUNTY selection and last season’s Conference Player of the Year when she averaged 22 points per game, DeMeo joined elite company Jan. 7 when she scored her 1,000th career point. The milestone basket came in Carey’s win over Glen Cove and was part of a 28-point performance. She’s the third player in program history to reach 1,000 points and currently ranks second in Nassau County in scoring.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, Jan. 19

Gymnastics: Wantagh at North Shore 6 p.m

Gymnastics: Massapequa at South Side 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Port Washington at Baldwin 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 20

Girls Basketball: Malverne at West Hempstead 5 p.m.

Boys Swimming: So. Side/Lynbrook at Long Beach 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Lawrence at Clarke 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: V.S. Central at Oceanside 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: East Rockaway at Seaford 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: West Hempstead at Malverne 7 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Baldwin at Port Washington 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Seaford at East Rockaway 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Hicksville at Freeport 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Oceanside at V.S. Central 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 21

Boys Basketball: Jericho at MacArthur 12 p.m.

Boys Basketball: New Hyde Park at Mepham 12 p.m.

Boys Basketball: G.N. North at South Side 12 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Wantagh at V.S. North 12 p.m.

Boys Basketball: North Shore at V.S. South 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: G.N. South at Long Beach 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Elmont at Sewanhaka 12 p.m.

Girls Basketball: V.S. North at Wantagh 12 p.m.

“We don’t have Lynbrook on the front of the shirt,’’ head coach Stephen LoCicero said. “We have “Family’’ with the Lynbrook owl. That was the choice of the girls. I’m ecstatic how well they enjoy playing with each other and their energy, how great we play defense and consistently scoring 60-plus a game.’’

It’s been a dreamy season so far – living up to the huge expectations LoCicero set in preseason when he predicted this squad could be a candidate to win the state title. The campaign has also included LoCicero gaining his 100th career victory as the second-winningest girls basketball coach in Lynbrook history.

The Owls have raced to a 11-2 start – 5-1 and first place in the rugged Conference A4 after a convincing 62-50 victory over defending county champion Plainedge last Friday.

In the Plainedge romp, O’Brien scored 17 points with 9 rebounds and 6 assists, Sophomore Brooke Mazzei added 16 and Vuotto 11.

But the beauty of this bunch is there isn’t a consistent leading scorer. In 8 of the 13 contests, there’s been a different one. Sophomores Kate Benedict and Cate Jennings have taken turns too.

“We don’t use leading scorers as an indication of anything,’’ LoCicero said. “Other teams might do that. We don’t. We play team basketball. On any given night, anyone can be leading scorer or top assist getter.’’

LoCicero is so hardcore about not citing individuals, he refuses to divulge scoring stats that aren’t team-related. And those team stats happen to be glorious

Lynbrook is scoring 60.1 points per game, allowing just 47.2 points. They are taking 70 shots a game - a demonstration of its fast tempo.

In addition, the Owls are shooting 32 percent from 3 – a sparkling number for girls basketball. They are also dishing out 16.1 assists and making 18 steals on average.

“It’s everything we thought it would be,’’ LoCicero said. “It’s rare a team can go undefeated especially in A4. One of the things I love about the team, they’ve responded to every challenge together as a family.’’

LoCicero is thrilled at the senior leadership provided by his captains. But there was one blip - a heartbreaking 74-67 loss last week to Floral Park. Lynbrook led by 9 with four minutes left before Floral Park got hot from 3.

LoCicero also pointed out the freethrow discrepancy with Floral Park

shooting 30 to his club’s 15. Ironically, the team scoring that night wasn’t as balanced as Mazzei netted 22 and O’Brien 19 – which is atypical.

The rematch is Feb. 7 and they could meet a third time deep in the county tournament. Last season, Floral Park knocked out Lynbrook in the county semifinals.

Lynbrook, Floral Park, Bethpage and Plainedge all reside in the stacked Conference A4 and made up the entire semifinal bracket last season in the counties. Each squad is poised to make another run.

Lynbrook will play its season finale against Plainedge on Feb. 10 in what could be a battle for the regular-season title.

“It’s always the roughest conference in A,’’ LoCicero said.

Eric Dunetz/Herald

SOPHOMORE BROOKE MAZZEI (16 points) was part of a big effort for the Owls in last Friday’s win over defending county champion Plainedge.

A job can change a person’s life trajectory

By MARK NOLAN mnolan@liherald.com

That age-old conundrum for young job seekers — to get your first job you need experience — remains a hurdle for many. Teens and young adults in the Town of Hempstead, however, have an advantage.

Thanks to numerous programs offered through the HempsteadWorks Career Center, Hempstead young adults up to 24 years old can find assistance in getting that first job that ultimately leads to a career with a sustainable wage.

In fact, the amount of assistance offered through the HempsteadWorks Career Center’s youth programs is indicative of just how far career counselors go to help younger job seekers — and those with less than stellar backgrounds — obtain work.

“For some of them, this is their first time working,” said Youth Services Coordinator Myesha Arvon. “That’s pretty exciting.”

Arvon has been helping Hempstead young adults find sustainable, interesting jobs for 20 years. Adults she helped as teens return with their children seeking advice.

And a big part of that ability to establish deep, long-term relationships with people is Arvon’s own experience. She herself struggled with employment as a young person. Her authenticity when speaking to young adults is just one reason she can’t even come close to approximating how many people she has helped in two decades.

The main goal of the Youth Services programs is to provide young adults a genuine opportunity to establish a career, regardless of their background. Arvon said they help many teens and young adults who struggle with myriad issues.

Those barriers are often significant, like teen pregnancy, homelessness, economic disadvantages, criminal justice issues, and more.

“The biggest piece they’re missing is that support,” Arvon said. “I become that support. Whatever it is that they’re coming in dealing with, they can talk to me because I’ve dealt with it, and I’m never going to sugarcoat anything.”

Arvon said she does an informal assessment when she first meets a young adult looking for employment assistance. She

finds out what type of people they are friends with and if they’re living at home or not to determine what services they need.

“Even before I find out why they’re here, I speak to them and get them to open up,” Arvon said. “Just them coming here is huge. Just literally walking in the door. It’s all about that first step.”

Nene Alameda, a business services representative at HempsteadWorks who oversees many of the office’s programs, said the Youth Services program is especially important to Hempstead because the program improves lives.

“The change is not just that individual, it’s generational change,” Alameda said. “If we change one person, we can change the trajectory of not only their life, but their future children.”

The Summer Youth Employment Program is a six-week paid work experience for those between the ages of 16-20 who are Town of Hempstead or City of Long Beach residents and meet low-income criteria.

HempsteadWorks offers both out-ofschool programs and in-school programs for youth. An especially important part of the youth program is helping 14 and 15-year-olds.

The Youth Services branch of HempsteadWorks provides academic tutoring, career exploration sessions, and more for teens who may not have a concrete concept of their future.

“We start by just giving them tools they need to succeed,” Arvon said. “They may not necessarily need a job immediately, so we break it down to them that these are the different careers available. It gets them thinking about jobs they may not have ever thought about.”

While the programs and support are designed to give teens and young adults the greatest chance of success, ultimately, each individual must work for their own future. Arvon said at some point, they have sometimes have to step back.

“Some people ask me, how do you not get involved in their personal life,” Arvon said. “That’s where my boundary comes in. I can help you to a certain point; I can give you guidance; I can tell you what I think would be best; but ultimately, you’re going to have to make that decision, and some don’t make the right decision.”

The Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (“MAPT”)

For those who don’t qualify for long-term care insurance or can’t afford it, the Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (“MAPT”) can protect your assets from the high cost of long-term care in your home or in a facility.

The MAPT sets up two roadblocks that Medicaid cannot break through. First, you cannot be your own trustee. Usually, one or more of the adult children act as trustee.

Secondly, you, as the creator of the MAPT, are entitled to the income only, not the principal. If you don’t have access to the principal (your home or other assets in the trust), then Medicaid doesn’t have access to the principal. The MAPT makes good sense for assets you’re not going to spend – like your home and investments you’re not using. As we often say, if you don’t need it to live on, then why not protect it for your family instead of losing it to pay for long-term care.

When you apply for Medicaid for nursing home care, if you’ve transferred any assets in the past five years, you are ineligible. The full protection of the trust only takes place five

years after you establish the trust. This is why you want to plan ahead. Under new rules to take effect in the next year or two, you will also need to have the MAPT in place two and half years in advance to be eligible for care in your own home.

The MAPT does not affect your lifestyle. You still receive your pension, social security checks, minimum distributions on your retirement plans, interest and dividends. You have the exclusive right to use and enjoy your home. You keep all your property tax exemptions. You can sell your house, buy a new one, or invest the proceeds, which remain in the trust, still protected.

The MAPT is also flexible. You can change trustees and you can change who you leave it to.

Although the MAPT is an irrevocable trust, not only does it have the flexibility mentioned above, but in New York there is a mechanism to revoke an irrevocable trust. All that is required is for all parties, you and your children, to sign. We even have a workaround just in case one of the children refuses to sign.

Courtesy HempsteadWorks

The TOwN Of Hempstead Department of Occupational Resources is a team of professionals dedicated to helping job seekers of all ages.

Attorney advertising

STEPPING OUT

Monster trucks invade Long Island

By Karen Bloom

onster truck madness is back on Long Island this weekend when for two action-packed days at Nassau Coliseum. In this version, families can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life when the Hot Wheels ‘Glow Party’ lights up the arena, Jan. 21-22.

While geared to the younger generation of monster truck fans, there is nothing tame about this version. You’ll still experience all the action of the 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound machines will that bring audiences to their feet, racing and ripping up a customdesigned track full of obstacles to soar over — or smash through — delighting onlookers. A laser light show adds to the spectacle — the trucks maneuver their way through their stunts in a darkened arena.

Their names — Gunkster, Race Ace, Mega Wrex, Bone Shaker, Tiger Shark, Bigfoot and Demo Derby — reflect the outrageous mix of racing and showmanship that enthrall both the drivers and their fans.

WHERE WHEN

• Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 21-22; times vary

• Tickets start at $40 adult, $24 child; $10 additional for Crash Zone (prices are subject to change); available at HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive. com or NassauColiseum.com

• Located at Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale

“Big trucks, big engines, crushing cars, hanging out with the fans, I love it all,” says Eric Steinberg, 22. “It’s an indescribable adrenaline rush.”

It’s clear Steinberg loves his job. In fact, he doesn’t describe his role as a “job.” It’s his passion — what he was born to do.

Like his fellow drivers, Steinberg became enthralled with the big trucks at a young age. Missouri-born and raised, he was 3 years old when he went to his first monster truck event. From that moment on he was hooked.

“I just knew this is what I wanted,” he says. “Monster trucks are amazing, and caught my attention more than anything else. I looked up to the drivers as my heroes. I remember how I felt and that helped me transition to being a driver.”

Branford Marsalis

After some scheduling delay — in part due to the pandemic — the renowned saxophonist makes his long-awaited appearance at the Madison Theatre with his quartet. The NEA Jazz Master, triple-Grammy Award winner and musical polymath with his stellar ensemble — pianist Joey Calderazzo, bassist Eric Revis and drummer Justin Faulkner — bring the brilliance that has made this quartet one of the most revered and influential in jazz. Marsalis is equally at home performing concertos with symphony orchestras and sitting in with members of the Grateful Dead, but the core of his musical universe remains the Branford Marsalis Quartet. After more than three decades of existence with minimal personnel changes, this celebrated ensemble is acclaimed for its uncompromising interpretation of a kaleidoscopic range of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics.

Friday, Jan. 20, 8 p.m. $40-$95. Madison Theatre, Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or MadisonTheatreNY.org.

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company

monster truck world, was Steinberg’s entrée into the circuit. He debuted Gunkster, first created by Hot Wheels for its 2021 Monster Trucks Series collectibles, in 2022.

He’ll be in high gear with all his tricks, driving Gunkster through all the non-stop action, which includes a wheelie competition, long jumps, freestyle, and even motocross. And if that is not enough, there’ll be a special appearance by the car-eating, fire-breathing transforming robot Megasaurus.

Steinberg encourages everyone to come to the Crash Zone pre-show, Saturday, at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., and Sunday, at noon. Crash Zone gives fans access to the arena floor where they can view of the trucks up-close and meet the drivers, get autographs and take photos and, of course, check out some toy versions of the big trucks.

“Fans love it,” says Steinberg. “The kids are excited to see the trucks before the show. It’s all for them. For me, I always wanted to meet the drivers as a kid. I always looked up to them as my heroes. And now I want to be that hero. Meeting the fans is truly special and encourages us.”

hooked up with the Bigfoot

Determined to follow his dream, he enrolled in State Technical College of Missouri’s Automotive Technology HighPerformance Program. After his 2021 graduation, he hooked up with the Bigfoot team. Bigfoot, a name synonymous with the

Top photo: Gunkster, driven by Eric Steinberg, and other popular trucks, including Tiger Shark, will thrill fans with exciting car-crunching feats as they fly more than 35 feet in the air. Three stories tall and weighing more than 50,000 pounds, Megasaurus — at left — roars into the arena ready to chomp.

The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company welcomes the coming of spring, the Year of the Black Water Rabbit. It’s a spectacular experience for all ages, combining traditional Chinese dance with modern flair. The Red Lions dance to a hip hop beat. The Golden Dragon brings good luck and fortune for the coming year. The ensemble also showcases a contemporary dance work, ‘Ashes of A Dead Frog,’ choreographed by legendary Polish Choreographer Jacek Luminski that was commissioned by Nai-Ni Chen almost a decade ago. Guest artists from the Chinese Music Ensemble of New York provide traditional and contemporary music on classical and folk Chinese instruments. Dancers, acrobats and musicians perform in festive costumes in red, gold, blue and purple colors symbolizing their prayer for a peaceful and harmonious New Year with plenty of prosperity and good fortune for everyone to enjoy and share.

Sunday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m. $52, $42, $32. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or TillesCenter.org.

Courtesy Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live

THE SCENE

Art talk

Feb. 23

Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” live, via Zoom, Thursday, Feb. 23, 1 p.m. She’ll discuss the current exhibition, “The Big Picture: Photography Now.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the program. Register at least 24 hours in advance to receive the program Zoom link. Also Feb. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Family Chess Club

Forest Bathing

Take a meditative Forest Bathing walk, led by certified guide Linda Lombardo, Saturday, Jan. 21, 2-4 p.m. Based on the Japanese tradition of ShinrinYoku, a wellness practice developed in the 1980s, the walk, on the grounds of the former summer residence of Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim, inspires mindful connections with the natural elements of the woods for a range of healthful benefits. $40, $35. Pre-registration required. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.

Friends of the Brothers

Friends of the Brothers visits the Landmark stage with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers, Friday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m. Their powerful celebration of the Allman Brothers, featuring musicians closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique. Their first-hand experience with the Allman Brothers Band and their deep knowledge of the repertoire and the music’s roots and heritage allows them to play with an unrivaled depth. Hear songs from every stage of the Allman Brothers’ career, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players. $33, $28. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

Kids in grades K and up with caregiver can play chess at the Lynbrook Library, 56 Eldert St. Th ongoing group meets most Saturdays, next session is Saturday, Jan. 14. 2:30-4 p.m. Adult participation is needed to assist children. Future Saturdays TBD with group. To register, visit the date of the first session, which was Jan. 7 at the Lynbrook Library Calendar on LynbrookVillage. net/Calendar.

Veterans thrift shop

VFW Post 3350 in East Rockaway continues its veterans thrift shop at 164 Main St. The store’s schedule remains variable in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, but aims be open daily, including Sundays. For thrift shop information or hall rentals, call (516) 887-8170, or visit VFWPost3350.org.

Crochet for kids

Learn how to crochet with members of the Lynbrook Library Teen Advisory Committee, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 7-8 p.m. Open to kids in grades four to eight on Register at the Lynbrook Library calendar on LynbrookVillage.net/Calendar.

RVC Homemakers

Learn crafts, cooking, canasta and more while doing community service for local hospitals, veterans, women and children. RVC Homemakers meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m., at the Recreation Center, 111 North Long Beach Road, Rockville Centre. For more information call Karen Alterson at (516) 318-6771.

Having an event?

Free Style Friday: Board Games

Kids can enjoy after school board game fun at Lynbrook Library, Friday, Jan. 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Open to grades 4 to 8. Register at the Lynbrook Library Calendar on LynbrookVillage.net/Calendar.

BabyJam

For ages 6 months to 3 and a half years, Ms. Andrea plays the guitar during this music and movement class, Saturday, Jan. 21, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Children’s instruments are also available for all to enjoy. This event will take place on Register at the Lynbrook Library Calendar on LynbrookVillage.net/Calendar.

Pre-School Story

Time

Stories, songs, and feltboard fun, Thursday, Jan. 26,1:302:15 p.m., for ages 3-5 with caregiver. This is a multi-session program. To register visit the date of the first class, 1/5, on LynbrookVillage.net/Calendar.

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.

Jan. 26

The Best of the Eagles

Get into the Eagles’ groove when the tribute band visits The Paramount stage, Thursday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m. With special guest Fleetwood Macked. This authentic recreation features individual bandmates taking on the persona of the original Eagles members. $39.50, $29.50, $19.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticktmaster.com or ParamountNY. com.

They Survived Together

Watch the winner for Best Historical Documentary, New York Emmy’s 2022 following its WNET-NY Broadcast premiere, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2-4 p.m., at Lynbrook Public Library. “They Survived Together” is a true story of endurance, unity and hope. Stay for the Q&A with Producer/Director John Rokosny, Registration is not required. This event will be held in the Lynbrook Library’s community room, 56 Eldert Street.

The Pigeon Comes to Long Island!

Step into activities pulled directly from the pages of Mo Willems’ books, during opening weekend of Long Island Children’s Museum’s new exhibit, Sunday, Jan. 22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., in residence through May 14. Step into activities pulled directly from the pages of Mo Willems’ books, make art inspired by his work, engage in dramatic play and learn about the rich social and emotional lives of the author’s characters. Interact with Willems beloved characters: best friend duo Elephant and Piggie, faithful companion Knuffle Bunny, and The Pigeon. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

On exhibit

Photography’s ascent in the art world is an international phenomenon. Nassau County Museum of Art’s star-studded exhibition spans the historical roots of the medium. View works by Ansel Adams and his generation and the thrilling, large-format color works of such contemporary masters as Cindy Sherman, Thomas Struth, James Casebere and Gregory Crewdson, among others. From the documentary to the painterly, images bear witness to the times. On view through March 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Sc H ool S

Lynbrook students visit Hempstead animal shelter

Students in the Career Development Program at Lynbrook High School and North Middle School visited a local animal shelter on Jan. 9 to donate goods for the animals in need.

The group visited the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, where students delivered goods donated by their school communities. Prior to the visit, CDP student Katie McHale, along with her teacher Annie McKenna, gave a presentation in Dr. Ben Tieniber’s virtual enterprise class about the trip and the shelter’s list of needed items. The visit to the animal shelter helped the students learn about the importance of working as a community to help those in need and how they can take action to make a change.

StudentS in the Career Development Program at Lynbrook High School and North Middle School visited the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter to deliver donations.

Courtesy Lynbrook Public Schools

Sands casino coming to Nassau Coliseum?

By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

A touch of Las Vegas could soon make its way to Uniondale’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum with hotels, performance stages, and even a casino.

The Las Vegas Sands, a resort company founded by late billionaire Sheldon Adelson, wants to develop what it calls a “multibillion-dollar flagship hospitality, entertainment and casino project” at the former home of the New York Islanders off the Hempstead Turnpike near the Meadowbrook Parkway. But the acquisition of up to 80 acres of the site would require state approval.

“The plan would include a casino accounting for 10 percent of the total project, outdoor community spaces, four- and five-star hotel rooms, and a world class live performance venue honoring the legacy of live music at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum,” Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman shared on Twitter.

There also would be celebrity chef restaurants, convention space and ballrooms, along with a luxurious day spa, a swimming pool, and a health club.

“We strongly believe Long Island can be home to one of the region’s great entertainment and hospitality developments,” said Robert Goldstein, Las Vegas Sands chair and chief executive, in a news release.

Sands, which is worth more than $42 billion on the New York Stock Exchange, says it wants to collaborate with the surrounding communities to create a plan as a way to maximizes economic opportunity while protecting the quality of life. Part of that plan would include creating 12,000 construction jobs, and then employing 5,000 people.

But making such a collaboration work will require Sands to listen, County Legislature Minority Leader Kevan Abrahams said.

“It is imperative for Sands resorts to conduct extensive community outreach, and then incorporate the feedback they receive into their proposal,” Abrahams said. That means not only talking to the people who live in the area, but also talking to officials at Hofstra University, Nassau Community College, as well as both Hempstead town and village.

Sands also needs to reach out to local fire departments, school districts, civic associations, chambers of commerce and others as a “necessary first step for addressing concerns and identifying opportunities.”

Scott Rechler is optimistic about a Sands development after nearly two decades of working to overhaul the Coliseum site.

“The plan envisioned by Sands is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create the kind of world-renowned entertainment and hospitality destination that has been

LAS VEGAS Sands

company

Memorial

sought after by Long Islanders,” said Rechler, chief executive and chair of RXR Realty, in the release.

But not everyone shares that enthusiasm. Protesters have gathered outside the Coliseum opposing the casino component, which they say promotes multiple addictions. Others believe such a development would add to the existing traffic logjam while creating a blight on the environment.

And then there are people like Jay Goldmark from Woodmere who is OK with the plan.

“Surprisingly I have no absolutely no issue with them building a casino as long as they have absolutely no exemptions granted under any circumstances as far as any construction, sales or use taxes,” Goldmark posted on social media. “If they can afford to build for millions of dollars and fees etc., they surely can afford to pay the sales taxes. It will also create hundreds of jobs.”

THE

resort

is considering the Nassau Veterans

Coliseum property as a site for a new upscale casino. It’s championed by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, but being met with cautious optimism by others, like County Legislature Minority Leader Kevan Abrahams.

Herald file photo

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a plan to build 800,000 new homes over the next decade to meet the historic shortage and support New York renters and homeowners.

The New York Housing Compact includes local participation requirements and incentives to achieve housing growth in every community. The plan will also require municipalities with MTA rail stations to locally rezone for higher density residential development.

“Every community in New York must do their part to encourage housing growth to move our state forward and keep our economy strong,” said Hochul.

The plan, however, has drawn criticism from suburban officials concerned that the plan would change the character of neighborhoods.

“Governor Hochul’s housing proposals would be a disaster for our community,” said Assemblyman Edward Flood on Twitter. “Her goal is to turn Brookhaven into the Bronx by removing local control of zoning laws and force 3% growth in down state areas. Hard pass!”

New York State is facing a severe housing crisis. According to the Population Reference Bureau more than half of New York renters are rent-burdened, meaning that they pay more than 30 percent of their income on rent—the second-highest rate in the nation. In the New York City metro area, rents have risen 30 percent since 2015 and home prices have risen 50 percent over the same period.

The New York Housing Compact adds to the Hochul’s $25 billion comprehen-

sive Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes.

“The housing shortage disproportionately affects displaced, homeless and low-income New Yorkers – an injustice that cannot be ignored,” said Lisa Tyson, executive director of Long Island Progressive Coalition.

The New York Housing Compact will require all cities, towns, and villages to achieve new home creation targets on a three-year cycle. The state will provide a $250 million Infrastructure Fund and $20 million Planning Fund to support new housing production statewide. Localities with rail stations run by the MTA must undertake a local rezoning or higher density multifamily development within half a mile of the station unless they already meet the density level.

The plan also calls for improving housing opportunities near train stations and assessing old homes for lead. In addition, the plan would expand local governments’ ability to condemn dangerous properties. More assistance for renters will be allocated.

“It is morally unacceptable that in 2023 we live in a region where the zip code you come from determines your life expectancy, quality of education, health, and quality of life,” said Pilar Moya, executive director of Housing Help.

Lynch plans to maintain and improve programs

“That brought tears to my eyes,” Lynch said. “My dad’s gone 22 years. My mom’s gone 10 years. They live with me every day.”

Lynch has been the district’s assistant superintendent for finance, operations and information systems for the past 10 years. When he speaks to new teachers, he tells them that small-town values matter in Lynbrook.

“There’s a feeling of family here,” Lynch said he explains to them. “There’s a feeling of togetherness. If you were one of those people who loved being in a large college where you were lost in a lecture hall, this probably isn’t the district for you. Everyone knows everyone’s name.”

Lynch began his career in education teaching English teacher at St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset in 1987. At the behest of his mother, Jeanne, he studied education rather than journalism, a career his mother thought wouldn’t be as stable

LLYN1 0119

LEGAL NOTICE

as teaching.

Lynch had a variety of jobs over the years, including helping guide education policy in Albany and working for a startup software company. But he always felt the pull of the classroom, and he said he was eager to visit classes to see the progress first-hand.

“Picture me having been shackled at a desk for 10 years now,” he said. “I want to see kids. I want to see teachers. I want to see instruction. I need teachers to tell me what’s really going on.”

In the immediate future, Lynch is focused on preparing the Lynbrook district’s 2023-24 budget.

When he assumes the superintendency on July 1, he doesn’t plan on making wholesale changes. Rather, he views his job as maintaining the success achieved by Burak and others.

“I’m going to follow the work that Melissa has been doing over the last 10 years,” Lynch said. “With the board appointing

Public Notices

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS will hold HEARINGS and DECISIONS on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 5:30 P.M. in the Court Room at the Village Hall, One Columbus Drive, Lynbrook, NY 11563, to hear the following cases: PUBLIC HEARING - #1004 - Javed Choudri - 49 Malden Avenue, Lynbrook § 252-18 Side yards.

Required Side Yard: 5 ft, Proposed Side Yard: 3.8 ft, § 252-17 Required setbacks: Average Front Yard Setback: 30.5 ft., Proposed Front Yard Setback: 22.0 ft., § 252-14 Required frontage and living area; restrictions on use of other structures for residences: Permitted Lot Coverage: 1400 sq. ft., Proposed Lot Coverage: 1415 sq. ft. DECISION#1003 - Jose Medrano34 Manor Road, Lynbrook. All interested parties should appear at the Public Hearing and may view case files at the Building Department on Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00AM and 3:00PM. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF

ZONING APPEALS

Ginger Fuentes, Chair Person of the Board of Zoning Appeals, Brian Stanton, Superintendent, Department of Buildings Lynbrook Publish 1x 136775

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU DITECH FINANCIAL LLC F/K/A GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC, V. ANDREA E. HAMILTON, ET AL.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated September 6, 2018, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein DITECH FINANCIAL LLC F/K/A GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC is the Plaintiff and ANDREA E. HAMILTON, 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 February 21, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 185 BIXLEY HEATH, LYNBROOK, NY 11563: Section 42., Block 181, Lot 1 & 35:

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT LYNBROOK, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 005854/2013. Todd A. Restivo, 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. 136776

To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST MARY LYNNE MIRVILLE, GENEVIEVE MIRVILLE, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 16, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 26, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 11 WILSON AVENUE, LYNBROOK, NY 11563. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Lynbrook, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 280, Lot 349. Approximate amount of judgment $309,573.16 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #005156/2013. 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 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”. George P. Esernio, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775

Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-295927 74315 136297

To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, in the Nathan L. H. Bennett Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, Town Hall Plaza, 1 Washington Street, Village and Town of Hempstead, New York, on the 28th day of February, 2023, at 7:00 P.M in the evening of that day, for the purpose of considering the recommendation of the Town of Hempstead Landmarks Preservation Commission that the “Bristol & Mexico Monument” and a portion of surrounding property known as the “Mariner’s Burial Ground,” located within Rockville Cemetery, 45 Merrick Road, Lynbrook, New York, also known as Section 38, Block 87, P/O Lot 130 on the Land and Tax map of Nassau County, be designated as a Historical Landmark .

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED in the subject matter shall have an opportunity to be heard with reference thereto at the time and place above designated.

Dated:January 10, 2023 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NEW YORK.

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor 136774

me, they’re saying, ‘Everything in the past was right. We need to keep going on that path.’”

He does plan to maintain, and possibly expand, the mental health programs and staff that were expanded in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. He also plans to expand opportunities for students with special needs.

For the school board trustees, Lynch was the natural progression as the next superintendent.

“Dr. Lynch is a much-respected member of the Lynbrook school community and is a natural choice to transition into our next school leader,” board President William

Belmont said. “During his tenure, he has successfully overseen the completion of our $33 million bond project, 10 years of community-approved budgets, and has cultivated strong relationships with staff, students and families.”

While Lynch will become the top official in the district this summer, he said he would think of himself as more of a lifelong learner than as the boss.

“I admire this staff,” he said. “They are phenomenal educators. I’m the leader, yes, but I’m going to be the learner. I look forward to the soccer games and football games. That’s fun. That’s being part of the community.”

Luisi’s selfless ways were passed down to his family

continued from front page

pocket. “You would hear him walking around because of the Tic Tacs,” Mike recalled. “He would always have Tic Tacs ready to give to his grandkids.”

A tradition that Mike shared with his grandfather was playing Wiffle ball. “Wiffle ball on Father’s Day was a big deal,” Mike said. “My grandfather played into his 70s, maybe later.”

Mike describes his grandfather as a “dynamic individual.”

“We went up to Foxwoods and partied with my grandfather when he was 93,” Mike said. “He had a shirt that said ‘I’m 93 and still shuffling with a full deck.’”

Mike believed his grandfather was the definition of a man.

“Fulfillment to him meant putting food on his table and a roof over his kids’ head,” he said.

Mike vividly remembers his grandfather’s selflessness.

“When you spoke to my grandfather, it was all about you,” he said. “He had a share of old stories if you asked him, but he always wanted to know how you’re doing, how’s your business, how’s your

boyfriend doing, and how’s your new job. He would always make it about you.”

Denise recalls the acts of selflessness from as long as she could remember. “My birthday is around Christmas, and when I was a young girl, he’d say, ‘It’s all about what you want to do.’

“My father taught me and my siblings manners as well as to treat people the way you want them to treat you,” she said. “He instilled that in us and we passed that down to our kids and grandkids.”

Frank was a volunteer fireman for the East Rockaway Fire Department. He had an active role in the community and met many people through this job.

Courtesy Denise White

Helen and Frank Luisi were married for 74 years.

Paul lyncH, a former English teacher, said he was eager to get back into classrooms to see for himself how Lynbrook teachers are working with students.

Mark Nolan/Herald

Send Resume To pvenezia@numc.edu.

Administrative Assistant For Five Towns Law Firm

Mgmt/ Computer Skills Mandatory Salary Commensurate With Experience. In Office Position

Email Resume To Siberlaw@aol.com

ADMINISTRATIVE

Richner Communications - a rapidly growing multimedia company and publishers of the Herald newspaper grouphas several administrative job openings: Receptionist (P/T), Accounts Receivable/Billing Collections Clerk Multi-Media Coordinator (Hours Flexible) Qualified candidates are fast learners with good organizational and people skills - entry level ok.

Role requires working knowledge of Microsoft Office and ability to learn custom software programs. If you would like to join a communitydriven, fast-paced environment, please send your resume to: careers@liherald.com.

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

CLEANING PERSON FT Needed For Local Cleaning Company. Will Train. If Interested Call Bill 516-678-5943

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS Assist General Contractor. Drivers License. Knowledge Of Construction. Call Mike. 516-887-8877.

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, Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

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REAL ESTATE

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PRESS-ROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME Pressroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for a motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key.

NYS License Clean 3 Years Call 516-731-3000

EDITOR/REPORTER

The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

Health Care/Opportunities

IN BRIEF

V.I.Properties Welcomes Zina Israelov!!

We are happy to welcome Zina Israelov to Team Rozana and Sara at V.I.Properties. Zina Israelov is an accountant with over 15 years of experience, in a well-known and prestigious real estate company. She holds degrees from Queens College and Hunter College in accounting and psychology, respectively. What Zina loves most is spending time with her grandson and watching basketball with her two boys. She moved to the Five Towns about 15 years ago and it has been nothing but home since day 1. One of her beliefs is that honesty, reliability, and being personable are essential when building trust with clients. This philosophy has driven her to be motivated and committed in finding the perfect home for youwith an easy and smooth experience throughout. Contact Zina at 347-836-1907 or by email zi@rozana-sara.com

Realtors are encouraged to send briefs and photographs to: Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd.., Garden City, NY 11530.

Acre Prop. New Kosher EIK, FDR, LR w/ Fpl, Den & Enclosed Porch.Radiant Heated Flrs. Full Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. MUST SEE!! SD#20 DRASTIC REDUCTION! $1,469,000 1534 Broadway #103, BA, Magnificent New Renovation! One of a Kind Ranch Style Living in Luxurious Jonathan Hall Condominium with Doorman & Elevator. Just Move into This Gut Rvated, Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bath Apt with Open Layout. Large Designer Eat in Kitchen

INTRODUCING.… 2697 Morton Avenue. This completely renovated and rebuilt, all new construction 4 bedroom, 2 full bathroom home features an all new eat in kitchen with quartz countertops, shaker cabinets and stainless steel appliances. This home boasts two brand new bathrooms, custom moldings, crown moldings and hardwood floors throughout. There is also a full finished basement with high ceilings, all new windows, siding, roof, electric, plumbing along with gas fired hydronic heating system, central air conditioning and driveway. You will enjoy low taxes and no flood insurance is required. $749,000.

A zoning variance for a bigger den?

Q. I wanted to add on to the den on the side of my house. The den has been there since 1930. The problem I’m having is that if I want to make the addition so that it’s in alignment with the current den, the side distance to my property line is too close, by 12 inches, according to my building department. They say that I have to match the code requirement that was adopted in 1938, so instead of having a straight wall going all the way back, I either need to make a jog in the wall or go for a zoning variance. It just doesn’t make sense. I’m not adding a monster-sized addition, just 10 feet by 10 feet on the side of my house, behind tall hedges. My neighbor doesn’t mind, so what can I do about this?

A. Not much, except decide whether you want a ridiculous-looking room with a jog in the wall or want to spend the money and time to go through the zoning variance process. When I see cases like this, I understand the intent of the law, but not the “spirit” of the law. The intent is to prevent the construction of buildings too close to a property line, based on historical catastrophes such as the London fire and the Chicago fire, both of which saw hundreds of lives lost and tens of thousands of buildings destroyed, mainly because of their closeness to one another and their ability to burn easily.

We live in a modern age in which materials have been tested, analyzed, certified and regulated to limit flame spread, and communities have been set up with strict guidelines to leave spaces between buildings for safety and appearance. But knowing, or not remembering, this, communities may invoke the strictness of the law like a stern punishment, or look at the separate conditions and merits of each case, deciding that your straight wall versus a jogged wall isn’t going to hurt anyone and, being located on the side or behind your house, isn’t going to detract from the character of the community.

Some building departments have been given the flexibility to make these decisions, to avoid throwing the baby out with the bathwater, and have the authority to give approval for minor issues. Some municipalities have even gone so far as to pass ordinances allowing the discretion of building departments to allow for the alignment of built structures, previously approved, on the first story. It makes sense not to put homeowners through an unnecessary hearing process, sometimes costing thousands of dollars and many months of delay, just so they can have a straight wall.

Allowing alignment with a previously approved part of a building isn’t the same as having a flammable wall too close to a property line or another building. In the long run, a variance will be worth it. Otherwise the weird wall shift won’t be understood or be beneficial to you. Good luck!

Apartments For Rent

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MoneyTo Lend

© 2022 Monte Leeper 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.

Ask The Architect Monte Leeper

MERCHANDISE MART

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Miscellaneous For Sale

TORO POWER-MAX SNOWBLOWER: Model #826OAE. New. Original $1300. Asking $900. Call Arnold 516-432-1492

FINDS UNDER $100

Finds Under $100

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OpINIONS

The Republicans have sent in the clowns

One of my all-time favorite comedians was Groucho Marx. He always had the right response to the question of the moment. He used to say, “No matter what you ask for, the answer is no.” That describes the crazy new Republican majority in the House of Representatives.

can candidates who have run for Congress have campaigned on the promise to make government smaller. They made it a point never to explain which programs they were after, because they knew specifics would kill them.

Democratic Senate will no doubt vote against such changes, but that would leave the country without a budget.

of the House majority.

JERRY KREMER

For decades, the federal government has been providing funds for Social Security, Medicare, Homeland Security and the Department of Defense. Most rational people will tell you that these are crucial parts of the government, but various members of the new majority have targeted these programs for extinction.

When asked why they would seek to end one of these key programs, the individual Republican members would answer, “Because I don’t like it.” The idea that many members of the new majority want to bring government to its knees should be a warning sign to every American.

The Republican effort to dismantle American government is nothing new to political observers. Hundreds of Republi-

Eliminating programs goes along with the entire package of rules that were just adopted by the House of Representatives under the leadership of its new speaker, Kevin McCarthy. McCarthy has wanted to be speaker for over a decade. In 2015 he lost the job to John Boehner, and Boehner gave it to Paul Ryan. This year, for McCarthy, the speakership was now or never.

To avoid never, he agreed to a set of rules changes that at best could be described as insane. At the top of the list is a rule that will allow any one of the 435 House members to make a motion to take away the speakership from McCarthy.

Another rule allows members to single out any federal agency and vote to eliminate its budget. Because the House is empowered to craft the government’s spending plan, this rule could wipe out the entire budget of the Defense Department or the allocation for Medicare, with little or no debate in the House. The

What spells more trouble is a requirement that any increase in the debt ceiling must be matched by reductions in federal spending, which could target Social Security and Medicare. What is the next ugly byproduct of McCarthy’s failure to give into the far-right mob?

Spending limits, counterbalanced by cuts in programs, would create the possibility that Congress would default on its requirement to pay the nation’s debt. A debt default could lead to a global meltdown and a downgrading of America’s credit rating. The Republican House majority threatened debt default under President Barack Obama, but in the end, the Republicans came to their senses and approved the borrowing to keep the government functioning.

Apparently, rules changes weren’t enough for the 20 or so fringe House members as McCarthy sold his soul. In addition to giving in to them on rules, he agreed to appoint them to key committees, including the powerful Rules Committee. In effect, the group of 20 will have more power than the other 202 members

It is important to explain the significance of the appointment of troublemakers to the Rules Committee. The committee has the authority to do virtually anything during the course of consideration of a measure, including deeming it passed. It can rewrite parts of a bill, or the entire measure. House members such as Lauren Boebert, of Colorado, can hold the committee hostage. It’s a recipe for disaster.

Some readers might call these observations partisan, but any student of government will tell you that all of these changes are a recipe for disaster. As an example of the thinking of this power cluster, Rep. Jim Jordan, of Ohio, was asked why he favored cuts in the Defense Department, and he answered that there are too may generals in the military, and we have to get rid of many of them.

When all of these so-called reformers announced their plans, I thought of the word “clowns,” and then the song “Send in the Clowns” popped up in my thinking. Clowns are funny, but not this group of them.

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.

Playing hide-and-seek with top secrets

Imagine my surprise when I opened my toaster oven to slide in a meatloaf and found a bunch of classified documents inside. Wow, I thought, secret docs are really popping up all over the place.

the documents were his because, well, just because. His team resisted turning them over, although the law demands that important papers get returned to the government after a president leaves office.

wizards.

People wondered if spies were hanging around Mar-a-Lago, hoping to read our nuclear codes over the dessert buffet. Or maybe someone was thinking about selling information to the other side, a kind of monetizing of the outgoing presidency.

Let me retreat a bit. After all, I did lose my most precious Covid-19 vaccine card just a week after I got the jab in January 2021. I awoke in the middle of the night and couldn’t remember where I had put it for super-safekeeping. I began to toss the room and the closet.

fight the government’s request to return the papers to safekeeping.

I once forgot to turn off the stove. Another time, I misplaced the code for my bicycle lock. Nearly every day I forget why I jumped up to run upstairs.

But shouldn’t the Secret Service, Homeland Security, the FBI, the president’s briefers and the CIA do better?

RANDI KREISS

The papers were in a folder that said Top Secret, so I read them immediately. Showing up in my oven makes them mine, right? Also, I took the extra precaution of declassifying them by chanting the order of the planets according to their distance from the sun, even Pluto, which is officially a nano planet. I mean, I don’t want to break any laws.

Just a few months ago, everyone was talking about a former president possessing bundles of classified documents, which he or someone close to him stuffed in various cabinets and closets in and around Mar-a-Lago, his golf club and happy place. The Justice Department, not known for leaping into action, actually raided the premises — that’s how worried it was that secrets may have fallen into the hands of spies. The former prez said

A special counsel was appointed by the DOJ to investigate the case of the purloined papers. Think: a kind of Wizard of Oz operating behind a screen.

Starting in early November, more secret documents were discovered, this time in offices and homes owned or formerly occupied by President Biden. He said he was surprised that classified material turned up under his watch, and his people did move with alacrity to give the paperwork back to the proper authorities in the government. Still.

Who is minding the store? How do secrets get passed around and land in somebody’s garage? A second special counsel was appointed. Now we have two

HAfter two days of misery, I tried to contact someone at the vaccine location. Someone there told me I had to appear in person, and even then I might not be successful. So I started all over again, searching my room and closets and, in case I really misplaced it, the fridge and the inside of my sneakers. On Day 4 I found the card exactly where I had put it originally, in a drawer. So I understand these lapses, but my vaccine card isn’t a nuclear code.

Biden apparently set down some papers and then forgot where they were, or when they needed to be returned to the government archives. More likely, he didn’t think about it all, and it was his staff that messed up.

Not so much with the other guy, who claimed possession of what were clearly classified papers and hired lawyers to

Hell, I did better hiding my diary from my sister when I was 12. No way MI-5 or the code breakers of Bletchley Park would have stashed spy secrets under a cushion.

I was surprised, but not really shocked, to find the eyes-only documents in my toaster oven. How to get rid of them? Roast? Convection bake? Air fry? I tried them all, and now I have a pile of ashes in my oven that I probably have to bake into another meatloaf, for security reasons.

This may not be the end of the story. All the president’s men and women somehow thought it was OK to store spycraft information in POTUS’s sock drawer or the ottoman at Camp David. Our government, bless its confused leaders, apparently subscribes to a special protocol for keeping secret documents secret, known as L.G.

That would be Loosey Goosey.

Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

ell, I did a better job of hiding my diary from my sister when I was 12.

Twenty fringe House majority members have more power than the other 202.

We don’t need Albany’s concrete fist in Nassau

New York has lost Oyster Bay. Well, more accurately, the state has lost 300,000 people — the town’s population — in just a single year.

Only California lost more people from domestic migration in the past year, and it wasn’t by much. But at least according to census numbers, New York can only watch as an average of 820 people move to another state. Each day.

Those are the kinds of numbers you’d expect from a state that’s struggling financially. But New York is anything but. In fact, it’s hard to find a time when New York was more prosperous. It’s just a prosperity that far too many people can’t afford to take part in.

“Over the last 10 years, our state had created 1.2 million jobs, but only 400,000 new homes,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in her recent State of the State address.

Without a robust supply of homes, prices remain high. That’s great for developers and landlords, but bad for everyone else. The simple fact is, if our family members, friends and neighbors can’t afford to live in our communities, they’ll find a neighborhood where they can.

“Many forces led to this state of affairs,” Hochul said.

“But front and center are the local landuse policies that are the most restrictive in the nation. Through zoning, local communities hold enormous power to block growth.”

There are certainly benefits to such power, like preserving neighborhoods’ suburban single-family feel. But that feel isn’t cheap. The median sales price of homes in Nassau County in 2021 was $620,000, according to the state’s taxation and finance department. Outside New York City, the closest counties are Rockland, at $550,000, and Suffolk, at $510,000.

To afford a home like that, you’d have to

make at least $45 an hour — nearly three times the minimum wage. A typical salary in New York pays a little less than $25.

But you can’t work in New York if you can’t live in New York. And with the dearth of truly affordable housing, that just isn’t happening. It’s not that our local government officials don’t want affordable housing. It’s just that many don’t like the best way to create such housing: apartment buildings.

“Between full-on bans of multifamily homes, and onerous zoning and approval processes, they make it difficult — even impossible — to build new homes,” Hochul said. “Think about that. People want to live here, but local decisions to limit growth mean they cannot. Local governments can — and should — make different choices.”

Those choices need to begin here. Between 2010 and 2018, the governor said, counties like Nassau granted fewer building permits per capita than virtually all suburban counties across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Northern Virginia and Southern California.

“With less supply, demand drives up prices,” Hochul said. “And who gets squeezed? Middle-income families and low-income families.”

Yet, not to fear, Hochul has a plan to fix it. She calls it the New York Housing Compact, and its intent is to build 800,000 new homes in the state over the next decade, setting “clear expectations for the growth we need, while at the same time giving localities plenty of tools, flexibility and resources to stimulate growth.”

Doing that requires downstate localities like Nassau to increase their housing stocks by 3 percent every three years. That can happen through redevelopment of dilapidated sites like old malls and office parks, incentivizing new housing production, or simply updating zoning rules.

In return, Hochul said, the state will offer new funding for schools, roads and sewers while removing some of the bureaucratic barriers standing in the way of new housing.

But failure to meet these goals on Hochul’s timetable means facing the governor’s mighty concrete fist. Albany will override local authority, and implement what she calls a “new fast-track approval process” to get home construction under way.

That’s one step too far. Forcing such change by trampling local government not only makes a bad mess worse, but also sets a bad precedent for the kind of power the governor wields over these communities.

What the concrete fist needs is a velvet glove in the form of incentives, as well as good education on what properly planned housing can bring.

There is a constant fear of city encroachment on our suburban way of life, but even a good suburb finds room for everyone from every walk of life.

How often do we hear friends talk about how much they enjoy visiting the vibrant town centers of places like Rockville Centre, Long Beach and Farmingdale? All of that is thanks to multifamily housing done right — not just for those who don’t necessarily make a lot of money, but for our young neighbors, who are just starting out in the world, and our older neighbors, looking to downsize and enjoy a simpler life.

This can happen by shining light on these successes, and how housing diversity grows neighborhoods rather than destroying them.

But let’s do it without the threats, without the negativity. Let’s provide the right incentives to make housing more affordable in our communities, and show why our Nassau County neighborhoods are indeed the best places to live.

letters

Next week, a nationwide focus on school choice

To the Editor:

You likely don’t need me to tell you that children all over the country are suffering the academic consequences of the pandemic, and New York is no exception.

A 2022 survey revealed that 52 percent of American families were looking for a new school. To put it in personal terms, in a classroom of 25 students, 13 families are not satisfied with the education their children are receiving.

A great K-12 education for every child is no small undertaking, and we know there are many learning environments that help different students achieve their potential.

Every child is different — with different abilities, personality and needs. In a place like New

opinions

Pence can persuade America he’s the president it needs

one thing I should have learned from my 28 years in Congress and the 15 years before that in the maelstrom of New York politics and government is that political life is very tough and all-consuming — especially at the national level.

become a major political force in New York.

(Full disclosure: I am a 77WABC contributor and co-host, and consider Mike Pence a good friend.)

The meeting with the former vice president was the latest of many that Catsimatidis has had with prospective national and statewide candidates and political heavyweights. Joining him were a number of executives, staff members and Sid Rosenberg, who hosts the station’s most popular show.

requisite photos with staff members, studio workers and technicians. Mike Pence handled it all with smiles and good humor. Then he was off to his next engagement with his four staff assistants.

would explain his lateness at the next meeting, and the meetings after that.

Mike Pence’s real challenges, though, as he thinks through a presidential run, are:

peter

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Now that I’m away from the incessant turbulence of campaigning, and can wake up in the morning knowing I can go back to sleep and not have to worry during the day about prying reporters or angry constituents, I am increasingly aware of how unnatural the political world can be — and usually is.

This was reinforced for me during a recent meeting and subsequent radio interview with former Vice President Mike Pence. The meeting was in the fifth-floor Manhattan office of the Red Apple companies headed by John Catsimatidis, one of New York’s most successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Among John’s companies is 77WABC Radio, which has

It went well from the start. Though his questions about a possible presidential candidacy were probing, Catsimatidis made clear his admiration and respect for Pence. As did the participants. Pence’s demeanor was calm and relaxed, and his answers were thoughtful and coherent.

Following the 50-minute meeting, John, Mike Pence, Sid Rosenberg and I took the elevator down to the 77WABC studio on the second floor to record interviews with Sid for “Sid and Friends,” and with John and me for “Cats at Night.” On both floors, there were the

All of this sounds calm and rational. But think of how many times Mike Pence must go through this drill. How many business and political leaders, how many special-interest advocates and former politicians must Mike Pence meet, and how many radio and television interviews must he do, realizing that one word or expressed thought taken out of context could endanger — or even torpedo — his possible campaign?

How many big cities, suburban centers and small towns must he visit? How many early mornings and late nights will he have?

How will he keep to his endless schedule? I couldn’t help but notice the understandably tense looks on the faces of the Pence assistants trying to keep him at least reasonably close to his schedule without offending anyone at these meetings, while thinking about how they

■ Figuring out how to claim justifiable credit for his real contributions to the Trump-Pence administration while disclaiming the Trump excesses — particularly the shameful events of Jan. 6, 2021, when Pence acted with courage and honor.

■ Understanding how, in a time of political anger and rage, such a sharply divided nation can be persuaded to get behind a candidate of experience, knowledge and calm demeanor.

These challenges must be met while enduring the exhausting rigors of endless travel, interminable meetings, raising campaign funds, and unexpected news stories about the latest misadventures of Donald Trump. It won’t be easy. It will certainly be difficult. But I, for one, hope that Mike Pence stays in the arena, perseveres, and makes the run.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. A version of this essay previously appeared in The Hill.

Letters

York, families need the flexibility to choose the school that will set their child up for success — whether it’s a traditional public school, a public charter school, a public magnet school, a private school, online learning or home-schooling.

If it’s been a while since you had school-aged children, you may not realize just how different the landscape of options is than it was even a decade ago.

A 2022 survey by the Harris Poll revealed that since the pandemic, home-schooling and public charter schools were the first and second most popular options for parents who decided to switch their children’s schools.

What’s more, some six in 10 parents said their children were happier with the change.

On the other hand, interest in open enrollment in traditional public schools, as well as magnet schools, remains high. Private school choice programs have expanded in many states in the last few years, and learning pods and micro-schools are a new and growing option.

But time is of the essence. Due to the explosion of education options in many places, application deadlines often fall as early as

January for the next academic year.

The upcoming National School Choice Week — Jan. 22-28 — will streamline things for parents through a national public awareness campaign and thousands of events hosted by schools around the country.

Parents who have chosen a school they love can also empower others by sharing their own experiences.

All families can help their kids achieve academic success.

The first step is to choose the perfect school fit, and the best way to do that is by being aware of the local options and regulations.

To learn about the academic alternatives in New York, parents can visit SchoolChoiceWeek.com/ new-york.

While parents in New York and across the country are exploring and choosing schools next week, I hope they can count on all of our support.

SHelBY DOYle Nashville, Tennessee

Doyle is vice president of public awareness of the National School Choice Awareness Foundation.

Framework by Carol Vallone

Catching Cinderella up on the news 1,100 miles away — Walt Disney World, Orlando

He should claim credit for his contributions while disclaiming Trump’s excesses.