Massapequa Herald 06-19-2024

Massapequa School Board approves tenure for forty-four employees

By Mike Polansky

A celebratory atmosphere dominated the Massapequa High School Auditorium at a recent meeting of the Massapequa Board of Education when 44 teachers and other staff members were approved for tenure by the board. Family and friends joined in the celebration, as the fol-

lowing employees received tenure in their areas: Amanda Albert (elementary), Samantha Berna (elementary), Haylee Brick (special education), Julia Calandro (elementary), Megan Chalil (elementary), Alison Clemente (art), Kimberly DeRienzo (speech), Deborah DiPietro (teaching

Sara Azizollahoff awarded 2024 SAANYS Award

Sara Azizollahoff, the assistant principal at Plainedge Elementary Schools was recently awarded the 2024 SAANYS Region 2 Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes an administrator in Region 2 who has rendered exceptional service on behalf of education. Azizollahoff’s recognition is a testament to her outstanding contributions to education, said school officials. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to students make her truly deserving of this honor.

In photo, Azizollahoff is shown center holding her plaque. Also shown is Joseph .A Maisano, John H. West Elementary School Principal; Anthony DeRiso, Middle School Principal; Jennifer Thearle, Charles E. Schwarting Principal and Mark Coccarelli, Eastplain Elementary School Principal.

assistant), Michele Fahey (teaching assistant), Emily Flaherty (elementary), Tammy Gandolfo (teaching assistant), Christine Gooden (elementary), Donna Granata (teaching assistant), Irene Karayiannis (English), Antoinette Kearney (art), Paige LaBosco (elementary), Sarah Lang (elementary), Colleen Lawlor (elementary), Robin Malamud (elementary), Daniel Mezzafonte (supervisor), Samantha Montanino (special education), Erin Mosier (social studies), Cristina Mullooly (computer teaching assistant), Tara Nash (speech), Stephanie O’Hara (Computer Teacher Assistant), Allyson Owens (Elementary), Tianna Parrella (elementary), Tracey Perles (elementary), Nicole Pitta (special education), Kirsten Poveromo (elementary), Courtney Puricelli (FACS), Meghan Reedy (elementary), Cristine Rizza (computer teaching assistant) Sidney Romano (elementary), Jordan Santoro (elementary), Anna Schwen (library media specialist), Jaclyn Scorce (elementary), Rashel Shamtoob (social work). Monia Sherman (computer teaching assistant), Michael Spiritis (technology), John

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Newly tenured Massapequa School District staff are congratulated by board members and Superintendent of Schools William Brennan

Oyster Bay Town gets Tree City USA designation

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board announced that the Town of Oyster Bay has been designated a ‘Tree City USA’ by the Arbor Day Foundation. This marks the 29th year the Town has been recognized for its commitment to effective urban forest management.

“This wonderful designation underscores our Town Board’s commitment to our environment and recognizes our ongoing efforts to protect Mother Earth,” said Saladino. “Throughout the year, we host programs and events, many of which include tree plantings, that help bring environmental awareness to residents of all ages, while safeguarding our natural resources.”

The Town achieved Tree City USA

recognition by meeting all the program’s requirements, including a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget and an annual Arbor Day observance. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. More information is available at arborday.org. To participate in upcoming environmental opportunities in the Town of Oyster Bay, residents can visit www.oysterbaytown. com/volunteer

A.G. Berner High School Class of 1974 reunion scheduled for October

The A.G. Berner High School Class of 1974, 50 Year Reunion will be taking place on Sat., Oct., 12 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at Captain Bill’s in Bay Shore. The cost is $100 per person. For tickets and more information, please email berner1974reunion@ gmail.com, call Maureen Sweeney-Oehl at 516234-1679 or Nancy Viglietta-Campbell 631-2523527. Captain Bill’s is located at 122 Ocean Ave., Bay Shore.

When baseball came to Babylon, June 28

The Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society will present “When Baseball Came to Babylon”, an historical account of the Cuban Giants in Babylon and a look at the history of Ar-

gyle Park. Guest speaker will be Babylon historian Mary Cascone. The event is Fri., June 28 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 117 W. Main St., Babylon. Baseball-themed refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to all.

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POLICE BLOTTER

The following incidents have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department’s 7th and 8th precincts:

PETIT LARCENY

Massapequa: Nassau Police arrested Farah Jeannot, 47 and Dandre Edwards, 22 of Massapequa and charged them with shoplifting at ShopRite supermarket at 5508 Sunrise Highway on June 8.

•Fanny Andino, 74 of Lindenhurst was arrested and charged with shoplifting at Macy’s at 400 Sunrise Mall on June 1.

•Arrested and charged with shoplifting at Dick’s Sporting Goods on June 3, was Donald Costello, 39, of Mineola.

South Farmingdale: Representatives of the Bolla Market at 630 Main Street reported on June 9, that an unknown male

removed four cases of beer from the premises without paying for the items. That incident was reported at 2:53 p.m.

•In a similar incident on June 12, representatives of the same Bolla market reported beer was stolen again from their premises.

The charges against those listed are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.

Plainedge School District welcomes law enforcment and first responders

On May 29, the Plainedge School District Law Enforcement and First Responder Appreciation Day. Students from the district’s three elementary schools, its Middle and High School took part in the event and the district extended its thanks to. all those who helped make the day an educational and enjoyable event.

Massapequa School Board approves tenure for 44 employees

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Watson (supervisor), Tanya Weisberger (reading), Keri Wing (executive assistant), and Marian Zedalis (special education Supervisor).

Board President Kerry Wachter closed the presentation by telling the newly tenured staff that “your commitment to excellence insures a bright future for our district.”

In other business at the May 23 meeting, the board:

•approved the Memorandum of Agreement between the School District and CSEA Local 1000 school lunch personnel pertaining to a grievance settlement involving the categorization of paid holidays. Formal negotiations for a new contract began two weeks ago.

•authorized sending a letter to the State Board of Regents stating its opposition to a proposed revision to gender-neutral rules to allow males to play on female teams such as flag football and field hockey when a school does not offer separate male and female teams for those sports. The board believes that enacting such a revision would reverse decades of progress for female sports and would create an unsafe environment that could potentially lead to dangerous injuries, they said.

The next regular school board meeting will be held Tues., July 2 in the Board of Education room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. The district’s athletics annual review is on the agenda.

Family-friendly Festival to be held June 22 at Heckscher State Park

New York State Parks is celebrating their 100th year, and the Long Island Region is marking the milestone with a festival at Heckscher State Park on Satu., June 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Centennial Celebration event is titled “Through the Decades: 100 Years of State Parks on Long Island.”

netquot, The Friends of Heckscher, and the Islip Arts Council.

The Centennial Celebration will feature tented booths for each decade from the 1920s to the 2020s to recall the joy that State parks on Long Island have provided since 1924. Each booth will include historical photos, a kid-friendly craft, an outdoor game, and information about the parks that were opened to the public in that decade. Reminisce about driving to the parks years ago with classic cars on display.

The New York State Park Police and New York State Park Lifeguards will also have booths showing off their vintage memorabilia. The Montaukett Indian Nation will display items from their “Gone Whaling” exhibit and the Montaukett Women Circle Dancers will perform traditional dance. Partnership tables will also be provided by the Department of Environmental Conservation, The Friends of Con-

The festival includes a variety of family fun entertainment. Voted “Best Family Show” by Entertainer America, Jester Jim will delight children and families with his unique juggling show. Kids and adults can enjoy free face painting, as well as an inflatable obstacle course and inflatable slide.

A few holes of miniature golf will feature iconic landmarks from some of our local parks. Festival goers can even take photos with life-size cutouts of vintage uniformed park workers.

The Jazz Loft’s Equity Brass Band will play live jazz while Swing Dance Long Island provides free dance lessons. Several food trucks will have delicious food and treats for sale including Double D’s Rollin’ Grill, Quina’s Cookin’, All American Wontons, Filthy Pig BBQ, Nomastayvegan, Brother’s Lemonade, and Sunrise Delight.

An estimated 28% of high school students and 11% of middle school students reported using e-cigarettes this year, according to a national survey. This amounts to 5.3 million young users, up from 3.6 million last year, despite laws prohibiting sales to those under 18.

The statistics are alarming due to vaping's addictive effects and the harmful chemicals in the vaping product that can cause long-term heart and lung problems.

The rise in addiction is not surprising given the powerful advertising influence of tobacco companies, many of which target young people.

Legislative action was required to counter the “assault” on children by vape shops using appealing flavors and cartoon character in their ad -

vertising campaigns. Many of these shops were near schools, a practice now prohibited by local laws.

The science is clear: vapes contain addictive ingredients that can harm various parts of the body. Armed with this information a middle school student recently researched vaping's negative impacts and launched a campaign to inform and empower her classmates. This initiative has been adopted by the Babylon Town which is working with not for profits in raising funds to place vape detectors in local schools.

We hope to see this program adopted throughout Long Island. Many negative forces impact young people today, affecting their lives and their futures. This issue deserves a full and concerted effort to address.

It is a national obligation to protect veterans' access to mental health treatments

By Anthony J. Principi

As a nation, we have a sacred duty to support the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms. That responsibility doesn't end when their service does. Once military members return home, we must ensure they have the health care they need to live their best lives -- including treatments for mental health conditions.

Bipartisan majorities in Congress have made a priority of this issue, notably with their overwhelming support for the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019.

Unfortunately, though, a single provision in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act threatens to undermine this progress. The law is inadvertently discouraging the development of next-generation psychiatric medications that could benefit countless veterans. The good news is that an easy, bipartisan fix is now in the works. Mental health challenges remain heartbreakingly

e-mail: cjames@liherald.com Massapequapost.com

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Inc.

common among our nation's heroes. Rates of PTSD are higher among veterans than civilians. Sadly, it is estimated that 17 veterans die by suicide every day, and over half of veterans living with mental illness aren't receiving treatment.,

These painful statistics reflect the unique stresses and traumas of military life. Combat exposure, family separation, reintegration into civilian life— each can take a heavy psychological toll.

Drug researchers have responded to mental illness with an expanding arsenal of treatment options. The United States is currently responsible for about half of all new medications developed worldwide.

But affordability is also an important issue. To address it, the IRA gave Medicare the authority to negotiate with drug makers for lower prices. To help ensure pharmaceutical developers have time to recoup their investment costs, lawmakers wisely granted newly approved medicines a period of exemption from price negotiations.

But oddly, this exemption period isn't the same for all drug types. Under the law, new "large molecule" biologic medicines are exempt from government price negotiations for 13 years after FDA approval, whereas smallmolecule drugs receive only nine years of exemption.

Unsurprisingly, this disparity is already leading drug companies to

deprioritize or abandon small-molecule treatments. In a recent survey of over two dozen prominent biopharmaceutical firms, 63% said they plan to shift investment away from small molecules because of the IRA.

This alarming trend could have serious consequences for veterans seeking treatment options for mental illness. Small molecules have a key advantage when it comes to treating mental health conditions: they're tiny enough to cross the blood-brain barrier. That's why small molecules make up virtually all psychiatric medications, from antipsychotics to antidepressants.

The IRA's bias against small molecules will also worsen existing inequities in care access. Small-molecule medications usually come as easy-to-use pills, while biologics typically require injections or IVs administered by a healthcare professional.

Thankfully, a straightforward, bipartisan fix has already emerged. The Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act would align price negotiation timelines for small molecules and biologics, giving each category 13 years of post-approval protection.

As millions of veterans struggle with mental health or behavioral conditions, we need to protect their access to innovative therapies. That starts with passing the EPIC Act.

The writer served as Secretary of Veterans Affairs from 2001-2005. This column first appeared in Stars and Stripes.

Subscribers can post comments on letters to the editor and articles on the Massapequa Post website at: massapequapost.com

Subscribers and nonsubscribers can also write us a letter. Send it to 2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City NY 11530 or email it to: cjames@liherald.com

Beach Parking Stickers Available

Oyster Bay Town announced that seasonal beach parking sticker sales and the free distribution of stickers to senior citizens and the disabled is underdway. The Oyster Bay Town Board has restricted beach access to residents only and enhanced safety measures by installing signage and pedestrian barriers. A major sand replenishment project will be complete by Memorial Day weekend.

Beach parking stickers are on at John J. Burns Town Park in Massapequa, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay and at TOBAY Beach.

To purchase a beach parking sticker for your vehicle, residents must present a valid NYS driver’s license with residency in the Town of Oyster Bay, their vehicle registration, and bring the vehicle they plan to drive to the beach. Parking stickers are placed on the vehicle at the time of purchase. Only residents may purchase beach parking stickers for Town of Oyster Bay beaches. Beach parking stickers are $60, which pay for themselves following three visits.

FREE PASSES

FOR SENIOR CITIZENS:

Town of Oyster Bay residents over the age of 60 can obtain a free parking sticker by presenting their driver’s license with town residency and their vehicle registration. After

receiving the sticker, senior residents must be present in the vehicle for entry on each visit. If visiting the beach in another vehicle, seniors can show their driver’s license and get a free day pass.

FREE PASSES FOR DISABLED/

SOCIAL SECURITY RECIPIENTS:

Residents who are disabled or receive social security can acquire a free beach parking pass by showing their Town of Oyster Bay Disability ID card (which can be obtained at the Town Clerk’s Office for a one-time fee of $32) or Notice of Award Letter, alongside their driver’s license showing residency in the town and their vehicle registration. A parking sticker will then be adhered to the vehicle.

DISCOUNTS FOR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS, VETERANS & CLEAN PASS VEHICLE OWNERS: Town of Oyster Bay volunteer firefighters, members of the Armed Forces, veterans and Clean Pas eligible vehicle owners qualify for beach parking passes at reduced rates. Only cashless payments are accepted, including credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay. For more information, please call the Town of Oyster Bay Parks Department, Beaches Division, at (516) 797-4111.

Farmingdale Class of 1964 sets reunion for September

The Farmingdale Class of 1964, 60th reunion, is scheduled for Thurs., Sept. 19 at Captain Bill’s in Bay Shore from 6 to 10 p.m.

For more information and to RSVP, please email marionstark70@gmail.com

Captain Bill’s is located at 122 Ocean Avenue in Bay Shore.

YES Music Bingo FUNraiser, June 27

Now, more than ever, children and families deserve access to local and affordable help. At YES, the need for our services exceeds our capacity. Join us for our FUNdraiser with Music Bingo  at 317 Main St.,

BRUCE

BLAKEMAN

LAKESIDE THEATRE CONCERTS

EISENHOWER PARK, East Meadow | Parking Field #6 All Events weather permitting. Call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.

JUNE

Saturday, June 15

8:00-9:30pm

Ja Rule at Mitchel Field Athletic Complex

Sunday, June 16 .................. 6:00-8:30pm

Indian American Night

Wednesday, June 26 7:00-9:30pm

Greek American Night

Saturday, June 29 ............... 6:00-8:30pm

Chinese American Night

Sunday, June 30 6:00-8:30pm

Israeli American Night

JULY

Monday, July 1

German American Night

7:00-9:30pm

Wednesday, July 3 5:30-10:00pm

TD Bank’s Celebrate America Fireworks & Show featuring The Allmost Brothers Band & Chicken Head Rocks

Friday, July 5 Fireworks Rain Date

Saturday, July 6 7:00-9:00pm So Good – The Neil Diamond Experience Sunday, July 7 6:00-8:00pm Opera Night with Christopher Macchio Monday, July 8 5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: The Excellents and The Demensions

Thursday, July 11

Rock of Ages Tribute: Shoot 2 Thrill - AC/DC

7:00-10:00pm

Completely Unchained - Van Halen Return to Paradise - Styx

Friday, July 12

7:00-9:00pm

Streetfighter – Rolling Stones Tribute

Saturday, July 13

7:00-9:00pm

Misty Mountain – Led Zeppelin Tribute Sunday, July 14

6:00-9:00pm Harry Chapin Tribute Show & Food Drive with The Harry Chapin Band and Will Sing For Food

Monday, July 15

7:00-9:00pm

The Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra

Thursday, July 18................

7:00-9:30pm Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “A Grand Night for Singing” by Plaza Productions

Friday, July 19

Creole American Night

7:00-9:30pm

Saturday, July 20 ................ 7:00-9:00pm

Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway Sunday, July 21

6:00-8:30pm Bangladeshi American Night

Monday, July 22 .................. 7:00-9:00pm

Italian American Night

Thursday, July 25

7:00-9:00pm

Barometer Soup - A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet

Sunday, July 28

Korean American Night

Monday, July 29

6:00-8:30pm

5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: The Fireflies and The Devotions AUGUST

Friday, August 2

7:00-9:00pm

Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute

Saturday, August 3

6:30-9:30pm Salute to Vets Show with Face to Face & American Bombshells

Sunday, August 4

6:30-8:30pm

The Midtown Men featuring Stars from the Original Cast of Jersey Boys

Monday, August 5................

Irish American Night

Thursday, August 8

Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack

Friday, August 9 ..................

45 RPM

Saturday, August 10

7:00-9:30pm

7:00-9:00pm

7:00-9:00pm

7:00-9:00pm

This is Garth featuring JD Leonard

Sunday, August 11 ..............

6:30-8:30pm Living Colour

Monday, August 12

5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: Vinnie Medugno & The Chiclettes

Thursday, August 15

7:00-9:00pm UB40 : Red Red Wine Tour

Friday, August 16

7:00-9:00pm Zac Brown Tribute Band (ZBTB)

Saturday, August 17

7:00-9:00pm Doo Wop Show: Manhattan Skyline, Stan Zizka & The Del Satins, Larry Chance’s Earls

Sunday, August 18 ..............

4:00-8:00pm

Pakistani American Night

Monday, August 19

7:00-9:30pm Ukrainian American Night

Thursday, August 22 ...........

7:00-9:00pm Let’s Sing Taylor - Taylor Swift Experience

Saturday, August 24

7:00-9:00pm Disco Unlimited

Sunday, August 25 .............. 7:00-9:00pm Don Felder former lead guitarist of The Eagles

Friday, August 30

7:00-9:00pm That Motown Band

SEPTEMBER

Sunday, September 1 .........

7:00-9:00pm The Purple Experience - Prince Tribute

Sunday, September 8 5:00-7:30pm Turkish American Night

Saturday, September 14 .... 7:30-10:00pm

Farmingdale on June 2 7 from 7 to 10 p.m.! Proceeds will directly support our ability to respond to local children and families!

Information about this event can be found at  https://www.yesccc.org

Friday, July 26 .................

Doo Wop Show:

7:00-9:00pm

Johnny Farina of Santo & Johnny, Phil Cracolici and The Mystics, Vito Picone and The Elegants, Jimmy Gallagher of The Passions

Saturday, July 27

7:00-9:00pm

The Hilarious Hitmen, a Comedy Musical Spectacular

World Renowned Puerto Rican Salsa Orchestra

Friday, September 20 7:00-10:00pm

Legendary House DJ TBA with LI’s Own DJ Theo opening Sunday, September 29 2:00-9:00pm Latino American Night

Bring Blankets or Chairs

Anthony Ventiera, former president of the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce and doo-wop singer with “Time Was”, at 80

By Christie Babirad

Anthony (Tony) Ventiera, former president of the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce and doo-wop singer who performed at many of Massapequa’s street fairs and founded Tony V Productions, died on May 8, 2024. He was 80 years old.

Mr. Ventiera was born in Brooklyn on December 22, 1943 to Angela and Carmine Ventiera. He attended Queen of All Saints High School in Brooklyn and received his master’s degree from St. John’s University. Mr. Ventiera married Mary Ann Tufarelli on July 29, 1967 and two years later they moved to North Massapequa. They had two daughters, Christine and Michele.

Mr. Ventiera worked as a Human Resources Director at the Research Foundation of CUNY for over 20 years and then for TNT Express Worldwide as their Human Resources Director for five more years. In addition to his work, he was also active in the Massapequa community. He became president of the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce and The Columbus Lodge #2143, Order of the Sons of Italy in America. Chamber members remember him as a hard worker with a dedicated passion for volunteerism and as someone who was

honest, kind and selfless. In a notice sent out to the community and its members, the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce said that they will not be the same “without.

Mr. Ventiera’s steadfast optimism, endless wisdom and playful humor.”

Long-time friend, Sal Polito said that Mr. Ventiera was also a great supporter of veterans despite not being one himself.

“At the conclusion of affairs, dances and public gatherings, he would always let me or any other veteran hold the flag and walk around the venue while he and his band would play a patriotic song as we were saluted by all in attendance,” said Polito. “I will always cherish those moments as long as I live. God bless you, Tony V. You surely are missed.”

As a doo wop singer, he and his band, “Time Was,” were well known throughout Long Island having played at many public events.

“He did a lot of work with the street fairs and ran many of them,” said his daughter Michele. “He was very involved and loved music.”

His daughter Christine added that he would arrange the sound systems for other

bands as well.

His greatest impact, however, was as a father, and his daughters both recall their dad’s devotion. “He was a great dad,” said Christine. “He was very loving, caring and smart, and he helped in every way that he could, whether it was with homework or career decisions.” What also stands out to both Christine and Michele was their dad’s passion for the New York Islanders.

“He raised us to be really good Islander fans,” said Christine. Michele added that he loved hockey and that they would go to games together as they always had a season ticket for the Islanders. In his free time, in addition to music, Mr. Ventiera enjoyed family vacations to Lake George. “Lake George was a really big part of our lives,” said Christine. His daughter Michele added that he also loved boating and fishing off the Great South Bay.  “We grew up on the water and he was such a devoted father who would do anything for everybody,” said Michele adding that he loved his grandchildren and was a caring father who truly looked out for his two girls. Anthony Ventiera is predeceased by his parents, Angela and Carmine

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at:

Ventiera, and his brother Vincent. He is survived by his wife Mary Ann, his daughters Christine and her husband Todd and Michele and her husband Chris. He is also survived by his grandchildren Joseph, Alexa, Lauren and Christopher. He reposed at William E. Law Funeral Home, 1 Jerusalem Avenue in Massapequa on Friday, May 10, 2024. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Rose of Lima in Massapequa on Saturday, May 11. Burial was private.

Massapequa Post Newspaper, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or may call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329.

We will also consider publishing clear black and white or color photos with the articles.

Anthony Ventiera

Johnson Honors Massapequa Eagle Scout Willis J. Clark

Willis J. Clark, right, recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout and was recognized by Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Michele Johnson on his achievement. Clark is with BSA Troop 590.

Only about 6 percent of Boy Scouts ever earn the rank of Eagle and Johnson thanked Willis for his hard work and dedication to improving our community and congratulated his family on this outstanding achievement.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Merrick Rd. & Cedar Shore Dr. Massapequa, NY 516-798-1122

The Rev. Dr. Walter V. Hillebrand Rector

8am & 10am Mass with Holy Eucharist 9am Christian Education 9am Adult Christian Education “A Church for all people.” gracechurchmassapequa.org

Your Public Library

Pets, Pets, Pets...

by Joanne Anderson

Last Hope

Great news!

Last Hope Animal Rescue received a $15,000 grant from Petco Love that will enable us to provide spay/ neuter at a very low price for the dogs and cats of local owners in financial need.

About Petco Love: Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $380 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations — like ours — across North America, with 6.8 million pets adopted and counting. Presently, Last Hope has cats for adoption in Petco Wantagh and Petco Plainview.

“Our investment in Last Hope is part of more than $15 million in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us.”

ilizing these cats too, “said Linda Stuurman, Last Hope president.

How Last Hope’s Spay/Neuter Grant Program Will Work: First, the owner or caretaker asking for assistance must qualify as having a financial need. These rates would be offered to individuals on disability, just social security or unemployed for at least six months.

We have four participating animal hospitals. A qualifying owner gets a certificate with the vet information to make his own appointment and pays $50 for a dog; $25 for a cat. The pet will get a pre-surgical exam, spay/neuter surgery plus rabies and distemper combo vaccines. The owner also receives $50 toward pre-surgical blood tests, if required for a pet over five-years-old. The pet owner would be responsible for treating any medical condition the vet finds during the examination. The program will end on December 31, 2024, or before if Last Hope depletes all funding.

Your Local Calendar of Events

THURSDAY, June 20

• Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. Call 516-624-6200 with related questions. Live streaming is available at https:// oysterbaytown.com/town-board-live-streaming/

• Massapequa School District Board of Education: 8 p.m., Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. Call 516-308-5001 or email boe@msd.k12.ny.us. for related questions.

FRIDAY, June 21

• Simpson United Methodist Church: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call 631-789-2569.

• Our Lady of the Island K of C 6911 BINGO: 7:30 p.m., Our Lady of Lourdes School, 855 Carmans Rd., Massapequa Park.  For more information, call 516798-9887.

SATURDAY, June 22

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River.  All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias.  Tubers will be available for sale starting in April.  For more information call 631-972-8829 (leave message) or visit www.longislanddahlia.org.

MONDAY, June 24

• Nassau County Legislature: 1 p.m., Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Avenue, Mineola. For more information, call 516-571-6200 or go to the county legislature’s website at nassaucountyny.gov.

• Massapequa Fire District: 7:30 p.m., One Brooklyn Avenue, Massapequa. For information, call 516798-2648 or visit massfd.org.

Why Pet Spay/Neuter Assistance to Owners and Caretakers in Financial Need: Since 2003, Last Hope has offered a low cost spay/neuter program for feral cats that has been heavily utilized by the Long Island public. This voucher program called Fix-A-Feral, with a co-payment of $15 per cat has resulted in the altering and rabies vaccinating of more than 12,000 feral cats over the last 21 years.

Founded in 1981, Last Hope is a non-profit organization with a mission to save abandoned and stray dogs and cats. “Unfortunately, the average cost for sterilization of owned dogs and cats has become prohibitive for many pet owners. The price increases with a dog’s weight, and a pet’s age. We get several calls each week from pet owners asking about financial assistance for spay/neuter. In addition, an abandoned friendly cat does not qualify for our feral vouchers. These cats have fallen through the cracks, so to speak. We consider it part of our mission to assist the public with ster-

To apply for the spay/neuter assistance program go to the www.lasthopeanimalrescue.org website homepage. There are red tabs at the top of the page. Click on “Information” tab, and the fourth choice down is ’Veterinary Assistance Program Application.”

Last Hope is grateful to Petco Love for their generosity. This grant will provide us with the needed funds to set up a pilot program so more people can afford to spay/neuter their pets or friendly cats they find and embrace. The current fees at Long Island animal hospitals are typically several hundred dollars to spay or neuter a dog or cat. The price increases based on the weight and age of the dog or cat.

The benefits of spaying or neutering a pet are multiple- curtailing overpopulation, reducing the number of unwanted pets euthanized in shelters throughout the US, preventing certain health problems in pets such as mammary cancer, malignancies of the reproductive organs and pyometras, and improving certain behavioral issues such as spraying or marking. Spaying and neutering keeps pets in their homes and saves lives.

• Massapequa Park Village Board Meeting: 7 p.m., 151 Front St., Massapequa Park. For more information, go to  https://masspk.com/ or call 516-798-0244.

TUESDAY, June 25

• Town of Oyster Bay Board: 10 a.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY. Call 516-624-6380 or visit https:// oysterbaytown.com/calendars/ with related questions.

• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at 631-332-0552 or Jill at 516-220-7808. All calls are confidential.

WEDNESDAY, June 26

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River.  All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias.  Tubers will be available for sale starting in April.  For more information call 631-972-8829 (leave message) or visit www.longislanddahlia.org

• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at 631-332-0552 or Jill at 516220-7808. All calls are confidential.

ATTORNEY

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don’t Accept the insurance company’s first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

AUTO DONATIONS

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HEALTH

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Happenings at Your Public Library

Massapequa 40 Harbor Lane, 516-799-0770

• Movie: Thursday, June 20, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The library will offer two presentations in the Bar Harbour Auditorium of “Philadelphia,” starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, about what happens when a man with HIV, who is fired by his law firm because of his condition, hires a small-time lawyer as the only willing advocate for a wrongful dismissal suit.

gan for this in-person chair yoga class. Registration and payment can be made at the library by card or check, $64, no refunds. Yoga class meets again on July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14, and 21.

Your Local Calendar of Events

• Closed on Sundays: Sunday, June 23. Both the Bar Harbour and the Central Avenue branches will be closed on Sundays for the summer.

• 1919: The World Series is Fixed, 100 Years Later, Why Did It Happen and Could it Happen Again? Tuesday, June 25, 7 p.m. One hundred five years ago, baseball’s World Series between the Chicago White Sox and the Cincinnati Reds was enveloped in scandal when several Chicago players conspired with gamblers to throw the games.  It was a time when players associated with gamblers and fixing games was not uncommon dating back to the first professional games in the 19th century.  Why did it happen and could it happen again?  Evan Weiner, a speaker and author with a radio and TV background, will lead this presentation in the Bar Harbour Kids Cove.

• AARP Defensive Driving: Thursday, June 27, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This NYS DMV-approved Defensive Driving Course, sponsored by AARP, is a six-hour safe driving class, held in the Bar Harbour Auditorium.  Participants can save 10% on auto insurance each year for three years, and may reduce up to four points off their license.  Fee required.

• Children’s Summer Kick-Off Celebration: Saturday, June 29, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrate the beginning of summer at the library. Join the group in the Bar Harbour parking lot for games, face painting, balloon twisting, snacks and more. Tickets are a must.

• Library Closed: Thursday, July 4. Library closed in observance of Independence Day.

Plainedge 1060 Hicksville Road, Massapequa 516-735-4133

• Paper Airplane Challenge: Thursday, June 27, 6:30 p.m. Children in grades K-5 with an adult can join in the fun to create paper airplanes and conduct some experimental test flights with Miss Kathleen. This program will take place outside, weather permitting.

• Summer Reading Kick-Off Event: Saturday, June 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The library will have entertainment and fun activities for this summer reading event.

• Wednesday Morning Yoga: Wednesday, July 3, 11:45 a.m. Join instructor and life coach Evelyn Re-

Do you have something good to shout about?

Let us help you share the good news about your wedding, anniversary, birth, graduation or any other happy event.

Send items to us, including photographs, at acjnews@rcn.com

Please include your name and phone number for veri cation. Questions? Call us at 631-264-0077

• Library Closed: Thursday, July 4. Library closed in observance of Independence Day.

• Medicare and Me: Thursday, July 11, 7 p.m. Are you turning 65?  Confused about your Medicare options?  Attend this educational seminar conducted by Norma Fioravante, a local, award-winning, licensed Senior Healthcare Representative.  Learn how to save money on prescription drugs and how to maximize your benefits and limit your out-of-pocket expenses.

Farmingdale 116 Merritts Road, 516-249-9090

• Books on Tap Book Club: Thursday, June 20, 7 p.m. Join the group at Grexicana, 48 Motor Ave., Farmingdale, to discuss “The Leftover Woman,” by Jean Kwok, an evocative family drama and a riveting mystery about the ferocious pull of motherhood for two very different women.

• Super Mario Party: Saturday, June 22, 2:15 p.m. Calling all Super Mario fans in grades K-5! Come to the library to enjoy Mario-themed games, activities, and your favorite Mario Party mini games. Participants are invited to bring their Nintendo Switches or play one of that belongs to the library.

• The Long Island Cabaret Theatre Presents Burning Love: Tuesday, June 25, 7 p.m. The L.I. Cabaret Theatre, under the direction of Emmy-Award winning musical director Sid Cherry (winner of The Richard Rodgers Award for songwriting), presents a new musical show entitled “Burning Love.”  This show will consist of the greatest love songs from Broadway and the movies, and will feature a live, six-piece band, a cast of 30 singers, and special guest star - Elvis! Seating tickets available at the Reference Desk starting at 6:30 p.m. on the day of show.

• Page Turners Book Club: Thursday, June 27, 10:30 a.m. Join the group to discuss “The Weight of Heaven,” by Thrity Umrigar, about a couple who lose their only child to a sudden illness, and what they do when the perfect life they had built is shattered.

• Ornamental Grasses in Your Garden: Thursday, June 27, 3 p.m. Horticulturist Paul Levine returns to talk about the variety of color grasses like Blue Fescue, Japanese Red Blood, and the Dwarf Purple Fountain Grass. He will speak about where the grasses come from and how to care for each grass. Come down for helpful tips and ideas.

• Library Closed: Thursday, July 4. Library closed in observance of Independence Day.

NOTICE OF SALE  SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Nationstar Mortgage LLC dba Mr. Cooper, Plaintiff AGAINST Peter Falci, Kim Falci, et al., Defendant(s)   Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 5, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, Rain or Shine, on July 15, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 287 North Delaware Avenue, Massapequa, NY 11758.  All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Massapequa, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 52, BLOCK: 527, LOT: 245.  Approximate amount of judgment $800,575.12 plus interest and costs.  Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #009037/2013. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov/ Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Only Bank or Certified check payable to the Referee will be accepted for the downpayment. No third party check or cash will be accepted. Lisa Goodwin, Esq., Referee   Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706   01-046203-F00 80892 24-611. 6/12, 19, 26, 7/3

LEGAL NOTICE TO PROPOSERS:

The Board of Education of the Amityville Union Free School District, Towns of Babylon and Oyster Bay, Suffolk and Nassau Counties of New York, hereby invites sealed proposals for: Request for proposal for Internal Auditor as specified in the contract documents. Proposals will be received until 11 :00AM, prevailing time on July 12, 2024, at the District Administrative Offices, at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York 11701. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject

any or all proposal and to waive any informality in any proposal, and shall, further make awards in any way it deems advisable to the best interest of the School District. Any proposals submitted will be binding for forty-five (45) days after the formal opening thereof, and no proposal shall be withdrawn during that time, pending the decision of the Board of Education. Any firm wishing to receive a copy of the above proposal must call the District's purchasing department at (631) 5656015 or (631) 565-6039. Dated: June 5, 2024. 24-613. 6/19

Notice to Bidders

The Massapequa Public Library (in accordance with Section 103 of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law) hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for the following project: Massapequa Public Library Auditorium A/C Unit Replacement BID# 2024-1

Bids will be received until 11:00 AM., July 11, 2024 at the Massapequa Public Library Business Office, tel.# (516) 799-0770 ext. 5306 from 9:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Monday through Friday, except Holidays. Mailing Address: 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa, NY 11762, Physical Address: 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa, NY 11762 at which time and place all timely bids will be publicly opened and the identity of all offerors will be publicly disclosed. Bid packages and addenda (as applicable) may be obtained from R & W / Engineers, P.C., 380 Townline Road, Suite 150, Hauppauge, NY 11788, tel.# (631) 9698535 from 9:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Monday through Friday, except Holidays or may be obtained electronically via email request to: pperagine@ randwengineers.com.

The Massapequa Public Library, reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept part of any bid.

By: MaryAnn Tweedy, Library Director 24-614. 6/19

High Performing in Ten Areas of Care

mountsinai.org/southnassau