Issuu

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HERALD $1.00 $1.00

MAMS sends care messages

Posh Paws opens in Bellmore

Science program is revamped

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VOL. 24 NO. 49

DECEMBER 2 - 8, 2021

A festival of faith and lights in Merrick Jewish festival that commemorates the recovery of Jerusalem and the rededication of the SecBellmore and Merrick resi- ond Temple. It is celebrated with dents rang in the holiday season holiday music, food and rituals on Sunday at the Hanukkah and that include the lighting of menorah lighting parade that is menorah candles. This year’s hosted every year by the Chabad celebration officially began at Center for Jewish Life in Mer- sundown on Sunday. rick. “On Hanukkah, we remember Now in its 15th year, the the miraculous victory when parade started at the light overcame darkChabad Center, on ness,” Kramer said. Benson Lane, and “Many of us, unforattendees headed tunately, feel like toward Merrick Avethere is darkness all nue. The destination around us.” was the gazebo at the The attendees Merrick train staincluded not only tion, where a 12-footBellmore and Mertall menorah waited rick residents and to be lit. Music blast- RABBI SHIMON members of the ed from speakers Chabad, but also and parade goers KRAMER Nassau County danced down the Chabad Center for Executive-elect street as a fire truck Jewish Life Bruce Blakeman, from the Merrick who will take office Fire Department’s on Jan. 1. Blakeman Friendship Engine and Hose Co. was given the honor of lighting led the way. the shamash, the candle in the “This is actually the start of middle of the menorah. Hanukkah,” Rabbi Shimon “Happy Hanukkah,” BlakeKramer said at the parade. “This man said moments before he lit will last eight days, and we are it with a propane torch. “May so happy that we have the honor you all have a blessed and happy to begin the holiday.” holiday for the festival of lights.” Hanukkah — also referred to as the Festival of Lights — is a CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

MERRICK AVENUE MIDDLE School student Ryan Kenny, math teacher Kenneth Heffernan, math Chair David Prince, student Jason Lin and math teacher Allison Roumbos. Kenny and Lin were both admitted to the Institute for Creative Problem Solving at SUNY Old Westbury.

MAMS eighth-graders are bonafide math whizzes

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

At Merrick Avenue Middle School students Ryan Kenny and Jason Lin have been accepted into the Institute for Creative Problem Solving at SUNY Old Westbury. It is highly selective program for advanced middle school mathematicians who are looking to challenge themselves and learn skills not taught in the traditional classroom. “The Institute of Creative

Problem Solving is a problemsolving enrichment program,” said David Prince, the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s math chair. “It’s for students looking to challenge themselves and go above and beyond what is taught here at Bellmore-Merrick.” District students are given the opportunity to take an American Math Competition test in seventh grade. Based on how they score, they can be nominated by a teacher to

submit an application for the SUNY Old Westbury program, according to Prince. “It has been one of the most competitive and gifted programs in the nation,” he said. “The students who were top scorers — we told them about the program, and the rest is history.” Approximately 700 students apply each year, but only 84 are accepted. There are a handful of programs run by institute, focusing on CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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What’s neWs in and out of the classroom

Photos courtesy North Bellmore School District

Technology Teacher caThy Schlaich met with John G. Dinkelmeyer Elementary School students Lenny Cadet, left, Leonardo Barsallo and Katherine Achan as they used Cubelets to make a functional robot.

N. Bellmore revamps science program From robotics to 3D printing, students in the North Bellmore School District are immersed in 21st-century technology in a new computer science program. Fourth, fifth and sixth graders enjoy a robust computer science curriculum as part of their regular rotation of special area classes. It is part of a revamped library/media program, in which they still check out books but now classes are centered around technology skills that better prepare them for middle school and beyond. “Our goal is for them to get a basic understanding of what computer science is, because this is the future,” technology teacher Michael Bevilacqua said. Robotics introduces students to computer programming through hands-on activities. Using Cubelets, Dash and Dot robots and Spheros, they have to program the devices to perform certain tasks. Mr. Bevilacqua noted that students are also learning different coding languages using the CS First digital computer science curriculum. “I like learning about the new robots,” said Martin Avenue Elementary School student Madison Badillo. “After I learn about them, I’m able to create something. I get to let my imagination run wild creating things.” Director of Technology Jason

Fischetti explained that robotics involves the same thought pattern as writing code – creating step-bystep instructions to get the desired outcome. For example, he noted that with Cubelets, students have to identify what each cube does – there are sensors, thinkers and actors – then put the blocks together in the correct sequence. They use critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their challenges to build practical robots. “Everything we’re doing is to better prepare them for higher-level classes,” Mr. Fischetti said, noting that technology is a required course in middle school. Mr. Fischetti added that while North Bellmore has had technology instruction for many years, now it is part of the regular schedule for students in grades 4-6 so there is a continuity of instruction. Students in grades K-3 receive technology instruction on a push-in basis as well as iPad and literacy instruction from the library media specialists in each building. A big component of the sixth grade computer science program is digital citizenship. To emphasize internet safety, students learn about the digital footprint they create through all of their online activities, including the use of social media. Technology teacher Cathy

MarTin avenue eleMenTary School students, from left, Nicholas Mezzanotte, Philip Taglia, Caleb Caraballo and Frankie Smart prepared to make a video on their iPad to show their Cubelet robot in action. Schlaich recently showed students the media profiles of two fictitious people to emphasize how someone’s reputation can be affected by the internet. Sixth graders then researched well-known companies, to see how they are portrayed online, and determined if the information they found gave them a positive or negative impression of a company. As a culminating activity, students will create their own personal brand. They looked at logos of dozens of companies to understand how businesses create their identities through imagery. Sixth graders will then make their own logos based on their personalities and interests. The logos will be created using design software on

their iPads and then physically made on a 3D printer. Throughout the district, the libraries and computer labs have been refurbished. New, lightweight furniture can be easily moved to foster collaboration or to open up more floor space for an activity. There are tables in different shapes and sizes and a variety of seats including chairs, soft benches and floor cushions. “It’s comfortable for them and it’s more of a relaxed setting,” Ms. Schlaich said. “That’s the whole idea because it encourages creativity.” Courtesy North Bellmore School District; compiled by Jordan Vallone.

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

Herald ScHoolS

Posh Paws opens in Bellmore By JoRDAN VALLoNE jvallone@liherald.com

Dog-lovers in Bellmore and Merrick will be excited to hear that a new petgrooming salon has opened on Merrick Road in Bellmore. Owned and operated by Shelby Grillo, who is originally from North Babylon, the salon will soon be open seven days a week, starting on Dec. 6. Grillo, 30, moved to North Carolina when she was 16, where she finished high school and attended college as a criminal justice, sociology and business major. Planning on heading to law school, Grillo shared that she got into a bad car accident the week before graduating. “I took some time off — did some travelling,” she explained. During that time, she started caring for her first dog, Capone, who required grooming. Deciding that she wanted to do her own grooming, Grillo soon realized that this was a career path she now wanted to pursue. While pet groomers in New York State do not need a license, there are certain steps that one must take in order to become one. “There’s a couple of different options,” Grillo said. “You can work under an apprentice, to go enroll in a grooming academy. Or, you can work at Petco as a bather and they’ll send you to their grooming academy. Not only do they pay you to bathe [dogs], they teach you how to work with them and talk to customers.” After the month-long grooming academy, groomers are then required to work for at least two years with Petco, before they can take their skills elsewhere. “I learned a lot from working with Petco — a lot about dogs and working with people,” Grillo said. “When I moved to Saratoga, I decided to go private. It is a very different environment.” Grillo said she moved back to Long

Photos by Jordan Vallone/Herald

Posh PAws PEt Spa and Boutique, a petgrooming salon, recently opened on Merrick Road in Bellmore. Island when Covid-19 started, and became the head groomer at a pet store in Huntington called Fetch. “I started off at corporate and it was very beneficial to me — once I went to a few private salons, I decided it was time to open one for myself,” she added. Having looked at a few locations for her salon, Grillo ultimately decided on Bellmore for a few reasons. “I was debating whether I wanted to go

to the North Shore or the South Shore,” she said. “Both of my grandparents — one is from Bellmore and one is from Merrick. So, it was family ties to the area, and I wanted to service the South Shore, which is really what I consider my home.” Aside from her experience as a groomer, Grillo also has experience as a veterinary technician, a role that allowed her further work with animals at a vet’s office in East Islip. “I am a vet tech because it really allows me to get a better hand or idea of a medical things that may come up through grooming,” she said. “It really lets me see the medical backside — to be a little more educated. However, it is extremely important for people to know that as a groomer, I am not a vet.” As for her facility in Bellmore, she soon will be open every day of the week, though exact times are still to be determined. Though she is currently the only groomer, she said she plans to take on a bather and to ultimately expand the facility to have 2 or 3 groomers. “I wanted to remain small, because I really want to work on quality,” she noted. “I really want to specialize on 1-on-1 grooming.” At some grooming salons, clients can drop off their dog for a few hours and later return to pick them up. “I couldn’t imagine leaving my dog anywhere for an extended period of time,” she said. “It inspired me to be a

groomer. I want to specialize on 1-on-1 grooming, meaning your dog is the only one getting groomed at that time.” With that being said, as she expands in the future, she added she plans on having bathers and groomers working in teams, so while a bather preps one dog, a groomer could be working on another. Additionally, Grillo does have kennel space in the salon. “My kennel space in the back is simply because I do have clients that prefer to drop off and leave their dog here because they have things to do throughout the day,” she said. “The kennel space is also really for safety, because if I had a dog booked and the owner wasn’t here in time, and I had another dog coming in that I knew was aggressive — I can’t have the first dog walking around. So, it is for safety purposes.” Overall, Grillo’s salon is meant to be convenient for all clients — whether they choose to leave their dog at the salon or not. “I understand that I have clients that either can’t or don’t want to groom their own dogs,” she said. “I wanted to provide somewhere that not only can they trust me, but I don’t want their pet to be here any longer than need be.” Posh Paws is located at 2798 Merrick Road, Bellmore. The business can be reached over the phone at (516) 804-2423, or over email at poshpetspallc@gmail. com.

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MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

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HERALD — December 2, 2021

December 2, 2021 — MERRICK HERALD

events and activities

community update Thursday, Dec. 2

rate a Gingerbread House. Weather permitting, we will open the garden for families to enjoy hot cocoa after the program. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Registration for Merrick residents begins Friday, November 26. Non residents Friday, December 3. Please register in advance. With any questions, please contact the library directly or visit their website.

Tiny Art Project for Adults at the NBPL Come be part of the first Tiny Art Project at the North Bellmore Public Library! Participants will receive a 4x4 canvas, a set of paints, and a brush - just add your imagination. Limited to 20 Adults. Register online or at the Reference Desk beginning December 1st. Craft kit pick up begins Tuesday Jan. 18 and drop offs begin Monday Jan. 31.

Wednesday, Dec. 8 Teen Advisory Group Meeting at the Merrick Library

Friday, Dec. 3 The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Extravaganza Come Join the Bellmore Chamber of Commerce for an Old Fashion Christmas! Festivities will include Christmas Tree Lighting at 7:00 p.m., a visit from Santa, a live nativity, festive holiday music, a horse and carraige ride (from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.), trolley rides through the community (from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and refreshments. There will be a slight fee. Extravaganze will take place at the Bellmore Village Veterans’ Memorial, on the corner of Bedford Avenue, Broadway and Petit Avenue.

Courtesy Bellmore School District

Bellmore Students thank Board of Education Students in the Bellmore School District recorded a sneak peak of their upcoming winter concerts to thank the board of education.

Saturday, Dec. 4 Tail Waggin’ Book Buddies at the NBPL Visit the NBPL and meet riends from Love on a Leash who are back for a morning of reading to the dogs! New or emergent readers are encouraged to share their skills with our furry friends! Limited registration opens December 1. Please contact juvprograms@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.

The Annual Christmas Tree Visit From Santa hosted by the Merrick Chamber of Commerce Join the Merrick Chamber of Commerce at 11 a.m. for a special visit from Santa. Come down to the Merrick Gazebo for a fun morning and kick off the holiday season.

l l l l l

The Teen Advisory Group (TAG) meets monthly to discuss issues related specifically to teen use of the Merrick Library and to help the librarians come up with new events and services. The monthly meetings are also a great chance for everyone to hang out, have fun, and get to know each other! This is open to teens is grades 7-12. Registration begins November 26th for Bellmore-Merrick school district residents only. Please register in advance. Meeting will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and meet in the “Teen Space” at the library.

Sunday, Dec. 5 Holiday Ceramics Painting with Marie Attard at the NBPL Join Rosemarie Attard for another painting program at 2PM. Create this wonderful whimsical piece for your holiday collection. Registration begins on November 1st! Please register at the Reference Desk. There is a $5 registration fee. Please contact vkowalewski@ northbellmorelibrary.org with any questions.

Holiday Lighting hosted by the Merrick Chamber of Commerce Join the Merrick Chamber of Commerce at 5 p.m. for a special holiday lighting extravaganza. Come down to the Mer-

rick Gazebo for a fun evening and kick off the holiday season.

Monday, Dec. 6 Intro to Android Devices at the NBPL In this class, students will get an introduction to their Android device (phone or tablet). Students will learn about their device’s home screen, system apps, learn how to access the Internet and email, understand their device’s settings, and discover many tips and tricks. Pleae contact vkowalewski@ northbellmorelibrary.org with any questions. Please register in advance.

Narcan Training Session at the

Bellmore Public Library Join TOH digniteries at the Bellmore Public Library at 6 p.m. for a Narcan Training Session. NYPD Detective and Ex-Chief of the Island Park Fire Department Councilman Anthony D’Esposito will be the Narcan Trainer. The training will include how to identify an overdose victim, administer the Narcan Kit, and contact emergency officials. Attendees will obtain a Narcan certificate and a Narcan Kit.

Tuesday, Dec. 7 Tail Waggin’ Book Buddies at the NBPL Visit the Merrick Library for a fun night! Families will work together to deco-

HAVING AN EVENT? Items on the Community Update pages 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 jvallone@liherald.com.

MerrickTruck Co. 1 is hosting a visit from Santa on Dec. 18, at two different locations. The Bellmore Lions Clubs will have a flea market on Dec. 5 and Dec. 12, weather permitting. Football fans can sign up for the HTB&G Flag Football league, which plays at Wantagh Park in the spring. The TOH is collecting toy donations for Toys for Tots at Baldwin Park on Dec. 11. Newbridge Road Park will undergo a series of park improvements throughout the winter for next spring.

Students enter an advanced math program

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

KENNY AND LIN attend a special advanced class every Saturday morning at the college, where they are taught by professors and learn math and problem-solving skills. est-level math classes.” “It’s been pretty fun,” Lin added. “Last class we did probability — the first class we did locus. It’s pretty challenging, the program. But I like being in it.” A typical Saturday, as described by both Lin and Kenny, involves being intro-

duced a new topic, followed by individual and group work. “We start by being given a problem — no context,” Kenny said. “After a good amount of people solve it, we come together as a class and talk about how we solved this problem. “It’s all about different math skills and

problem-solving,” he added. “Sometimes you may be learning about prime factors, and other times locus points.” “It’s really interactive,” Lin said. “It’s a school environment, but at the same time it’s not a school environment. Its different — definitely advanced work.” The AMC test is given every year, and anyone can take it. There is one test for those up to eight grades, and others for students up to grades 10 and 12. The class that Lin and Kenny attend has roughly 30 students, most of them fellow eighthgraders from other schools. The program will conclude next March. “After this year, I can go onto other programs — there are ones for research and robotics,” Kenny said. “For me personally, I would want to try to get into those programs. They seem interesting, and would really challenge me.” In order to be admitted to those programs, students already have to be attending a program run by the institute, and take additional entry exams. At Bellmore-Merrick, Lin and Kenny are on an advanced math track, meaning that last school year they learned both the seventh- and eighth-grade math curriculums. This year they are both enrolled in Algebra 1, a high school-level state Regents class. “They’re in the most rigorous math program that we offer here in BellmoreMerrick,” Prince said. “We’re really proud of these students.”

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math, research and robotics. Lin and Kenny are participating in the math program, but will have a chance to take tests to attend the others in future school years. Lin, 13, of Merrick, told the Herald that at school, he is involved in the science and math clubs, and he also runs track and plays the viola. “A teacher recommends students with your AMC score,” he said. “I had to write a paragraph about myself. If they approved that, I had to take another test, and then I got in.” Both students received a nomination from their seventh-grade math teacher, Kenneth Heffernan. The tests for the program were given virtually, late last school year, Heffernan explained. Students were told they were accepted in July, and the class started in September. Every Saturday from 9:15 to 11:45 a.m., the students attend the class at the college. They are taught by different instructors, and take on a different mathematical topic in each class. “It’s probably one of the highlights of my Saturday,” Kenny, 13, of Merrick, said. He also plays drums and piano, loves art and does a lot of individual research, he said. For fun, he plays basketball, and will also start running track. “It’s usually professors — sometimes a teacher from high school,” Kenny said of the SUNY program. “But it’s always someone who’s teaching one of the high-

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

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Students at Merrick Avenue Middle School in the Bellmore-Merrick Central School District joined the CARE FOR COVID effort by writing letters of appreciation and support to healthcare frontline workers. “CARE FOR COVID is a community service project created by a former MAMS and Kennedy student and we’d love to help her create letters to be distributed to healthcare workers in our local hospitals,” explained Rachel Mathieu-

Leo, the library media specialist and one of the event organizers. Students were supplied with letterwriting supplies and encouraged to use stickers and photos as well. Guidance counselor Tammy Sabatino and school psychologist Kristin Bishop also helped organize the event. Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District; compiled by Jordan Vallone.

Renovations are coming to Newbridge Road Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore will see some big changes next spring and summer as it undergoes some extensive renovations this winter. Newbridge Road Park is maintained by the Town of Hempstead. “We are adding a brand new splash pad right next to the pool,” Town of Hempstead Councilman Chris Carini told the Herald. Carini serves the town’s 5th district, which encompasses parts of Bellmore and Merrick.

“It is a big capital project,” Carini added. “There will also be a complete redo of the playground.” Carini said the upgrades are possible, thanks to the town’s good finances. “We got bond upgrades — which means we are able to get bonds at a lower rate,” he said. “We decided to add $10 million in upgrades to town parks — this is part of that capital.” Renovations for the playground are expected to be done sometime next spring, and the splash pad will be completed in time for next summer’s pool season.

Jordan Vallone/Herald

NEwBRiDgE ROAD PARk in Bellmore will undergo a series of renovations this summer as part of a Town of Hempstead capital improvement project. ThE PLAygROuND AT the park will be completely redone by sometime next spring.

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jvallone@liherald.com

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

By JORDAN VALLONE

Tom Suozzi, former county executive, running for New York state governor llane@liherald.com

U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, 59, is throwing his hat in the ring for governor, the Glen Cove resident said Monday. “I’m running for governor because I believe this is the job I am made for,” Suozzi said in a news conference. “Everything I’ve done has prepared me for this particular job at this particular time.” Suozzi referred to himself as “a common-sense Democrat.” He said he would work with anyone to solve problems to benefit the people he serves. “I’ve had a proven record in my career of doing that,” he said. “It’s about doing the correct thing to help prople.” Then he added, “I feel like this whole left-right extremist thing is killing our country and our state.” The Democrat, who represents the 3rd District on the North Shore, has

worked over the past four years to tant, first ran unsuccessfully for govreinstate homeowners’ ability to ernor at age 43 in 2006, losing a primadeduct state and local taxes from ry bid to Elliot Spitzer, a two-term attorney general often their federal income tax called “the sheriff of bills. The SALT deducWall Street” for his tion, which was capped ef for ts to prosecute at $10,000 in 2017 under wh i t e - c o l l a r c r i m e. President Trump, has Spitzer was later forced cost many Long Island to resign in 2008 amid a residents thousands of sex scandal. dollars annually. Most Suozzi had for med recently, Suozzi pledged Fix Albany in 2004, pubthat he would not vote licly criticizing longfor infrastructure and time Assembly Speaker social spending bills Sheldon Silver, who proposed by President resigned in 2015 amid a Biden if SALT reform Tom Suozzi corruption scandal. were not included in S u o z z i ’s g o a l , h e the legislation. The House approved a provision in said, was to expose corruption in New Biden’s expenditure bill on Nov. 19 to York state politics with his grassroots raise the SALT cap to $80,000. The bill movement. Although his efforts were popular, now goes to the Democratically led the Democratic Party supported Senate, where it is expected to pass. Suozzi, a lawyer and accoun- Spitzer. Suozzi lost by a large margin

across the state, failing to carry even Nassau County. It was a tough blow for an elected leader who had beat the odds in the past. In 2001, Suozzi, after serving four ter ms as Glen Cove mayor, became Nassau County executive, the first Democrat in three decades to hold the position. During his tenure from 2002 to 2009, he eliminated a $45 million deficit, stopping the county from falling into bankruptcy. But after winning twice as county executive by wide margins, Suozzi lost in 2009 to Edward Mangano, who won by 386 votes and was later brought up on corruption charges in 2017. Suozzi took a break from politics but returned in 2017, when he won against Republican Jack Martins to represent the 3rd Congressional District.

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Photos by Jordan Vallone/Herald

ON SUNDAY, BELLMORE-MERRICK residents and Chabad members gathered before the start of the parade that celebrated the beginning of Hanukkah.

Chabad Center kicks off Hanukkah CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Afterward, there were musical performances by Jewish Early Learning Center preschoolers and Chabad Hebrew School students. Some of the older Hebrew School students re-enacted the story of Hanukkah. And as families and other attendees enjoyed donuts and hot latkes — traditional potato pancakes — Keith the Fire Juggler put on a show that involved tricks such as juggling knives and lit torches. Also involved in the night’s festivities was Alan Stewart, a Merrick resident who owns a fleet of cars that he rents out for movies or television commercials. Each year since the Chabad’s first parade, a different one of Stewart’s cars — usually sporting a menorah — has taken part in the parade. This year it was his rare 1969 Plymouth Roadrunner. “I do this every year for the Chabad,” Stewart told the Herald. “… I’ve been doing this for 15 years. It’s just a donation, so to speak, that I give to them on Hanukkah.” As residents celebrated, Kramer reminded everyone in attendance why they celebrate the holiday, and how they, too, could make a difference in others’ lives. “We don’t push away darkness through a broomstick,” he said. “All we need is a little bit of light, and we push away the darkness. “We all have a little bit of light in us,” Kramer added. “Let’s go out to the streets, when we are done here tonight — go home, light the menorah. Find a neighbor — somebody who doesn’t have a menorah — and bring them one. Bring them a dreidel, bring them a latke. Light up their homes and light up the streets.”

THE 12-FOOTTALL MENORAH sits adjacent to the Merrick train station, by the gazebo on Merrick Avenue.

AT THE END of the evening, Keith the Fire Juggler performed stunts that included juggling knives and torches.

RABBI KRAMER KICKED off the menorah lighting with a holiday message and a prayer.

ALAN STEWART, A vintage car owner from Merrick, donates one of his vehicles every year to the parade. This year his 1969 Plymouth Roadrunner sported a menorah for the festivities.

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

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December 2, 2021 — MERRICK HERALD

Momma’s House celebrates 35th anniversary By KATE NALEPINSKI knalepinski@liherald.com

In 1984, social worker Pat Shea was working to find housing for a young homeless woman through the Wantaghbased Birthright of Nassau/Suffolk, which helped women facing unplanned or crisis pregnancies. Though the woman had four siblings, she knew none of them, having been placed in a separate foster care facility. Around the time she was aging out of foster care, she became pregnant, and struggled to find housing. “There were no foster homes for mothers with babies,” Shea, who lived in Massapequa at the time, explained. “The mother could go into one foster home and the child would go to another, due to licensing.” The woman managed to find a place for her and her baby to stay, but the conditions were deplorable, Shea said: The home was filthy, there was no hot water, and nine men lived there with her, most of whom had been discharged from mental institutions or were drug addicts or alcoholics. “It was the worst situation I

Kate Nalepinski/Herald

NoNProfIT MoMMAS HouSE hosted its Annual Gala at the Mansion at Oyster Bay on Nov. 11. have ever seen,” Shea recalled. “I didn’t believe in Nassau County we could have such horrible conditions for a mother and baby to live in.” She invited the woman to stay in her Massapequa home, but she refused. A few weeks later, the woman asked Shea to

Public Notices

LMER1 1202

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 12/8/21 at 9:30 A.M. and 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: --------------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 697/21. MERRICK Merrick Shopping Center, Renewal of grant to maintain double-faced, illuminated, detached ground sign; overall size 144 sq. ft. (72 sq. ft. per face); overall height 16’; 18” clearance from grade to bottom of sign & setback 2’2” from Merrick Rd., S/s Merrick Rd. between Lindenmere Dr. & Merrick Ave., a/k/a 1968 Merrick Rd. 698/21. MERRICK Merrick Shopping Center, Renewal of grant to maintain one illuminated ground sign; overall size 32 sq. ft.; setback 4’ from property lines on Merrick Rd. & Lindenmere Dr., S/E cor. Merrick Rd. & Lindenmere Dr., a/k/a 1902 Merrick Rd. THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 722/21. MERRICK Russell Donath, Variance,

side yards aggregate, construct roof over porch and second story addition., W/s Riverside Ave., 125’ S/o Irene St., a/k/a 2804 Riverside Ave. 731/21. 732/21. MERRICK - Marie Deacon, Variance, lot area occupied, construct roof over patio & 2nd story deck both attached to dwelling; Variance, side yard, maintain two (2) a/c units attached to dwelling & pool equipment not permitted in side yard., E/s Stevens Ave., 91.5’ N/o Grove St., a/k/a 1563 Stevens Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Merrick within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ hearings/109-hearing-1208-2021 The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ board-of-appeals/livestreaming-video. Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 128641

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Alexa Pittelli LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 11/02/21. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 2954 Wynsum Ave, Merrick, NY 11566. Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 128579 Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 67-2021 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held November 16, 2021, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 67-2021, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 67-2021, amending Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.

Dated: November 16, 2021 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 128665

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 68-2021 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held November 16, 2021, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 68-2021, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 68-2021, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations. Dated: November 16, 2021 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 128645

watch her child when she went to the doctor. Shea agreed. “She brought him over and she never came back,” Shea said. “I never saw her again. She abandoned her baby because she had no place to live that was decent.” Though the situation was difficult, it was the beginning of Shea’s journey to provide housing and support services to young mothers and their babies — a major goal of the Wantagh-based nonprofit Mommas House. Shea, her brother, John Connell, volunteers for Birthright of Nassau/Suffolk and friends and family established the first Mommas House in Wantagh in 1986. The only program of its kind in the metropolitan area, it provided a safe place for pregnant women and young mothers, ages 18 to 24, and their babies. “It grew from that,” She said. “The need existed.” Last week, Mommas House celebrated its 35th anniversary — and recently also celebrated assisting more than 1,000 mothers and babies across Nassau County. The organization offers transitional housing, emergency shelter and permanent-housing services. It has four MotherChild Transitional Housing Residences, one in Glen Cove, one in Jericho and two in Hempstead, and permanent-housing services in a two-family home in East Massapequa. The nonprofit hosted its Annual Gala at the Mansion at Oyster Bay on Nov. 11. This year, the organization honored Robert Zabbia, of Zabbia Insurance Agency, who could not be recognized last year because of the pandemic. Zabbia, who was unable to attend the gala due to a death in his family, has provided financial assistance to the organization over the years. He sent a representative to accept a citation on his behalf, presented by State Assemblyman Michael Durso, of Massapequa Park. Since the gala took place on Veterans Day, Mommas House also recognized three members of the “Mommas Family” who are serving or have served in the armed forces: Chanel Colson, Army National Guard; Alexa Ortiz, Air Force; and Matthew Remy, Marine Corps. Catherine Perez, of Baldwin, said the organization helped her tremendously

when she was raising her newborn. She discovered it with help from then-Glen Cove Mayor Tom Suozzi, who’s now a member of Congress. After Suozzi noticed a great need for support in the city, Mommas House opened its third facility in the former Rectory of St. Rocco’s Church in Glen Cove in 1997. At the time, Perez had a newborn and was working full-time and attending college classes at night, all the while living with the baby’s father in his family’s house, alongside his parents and his two siblings. In summer 1998, she decided to leave the crowded home. She moved into the Mommas House before her son turned 1. “I wanted to better my circumstances,” Perez said. After she moved in, she no longer needed to work full time, so she was able to focus on her college coursework. The following semester, she made the Dean’s List, and after she graduated, she believed she had an easier time finding a job. Perez said she appreciated the strict schedule that mothers kept at Mommas House. “The curfew was 5 p.m.,” she recounted. “We had to use a pay phone inside the house.” She said she was grateful to know Shea. “To know Pat Shea is to know Mommas House,” Perez said. “She’s an incredible mentor. She’s honest, and she has the biggest heart.” Shea said the program has also benefitted her five children: late Dillon Shea, Keara Bloom, Meaghan Shea, Siobhan Anderson, and youngest, Deirdre Trumpy, who will next year become Mommas House’s executive director. “I thought to myself, ‘If God was going to choose someone to do this, I don’t know how he picked me,’ because you can’t even see the top of my desk,” Shea joked. “He took a risk here, but he sent me help. I’m surrounded by good people all the time.” While the nonprofit has changed locations and expanded in numerous ways, Shea said, the goal has remained the same: to help mothers and babies in need. “We’re a focal point — where even if they can’t come into Mommas house, we can help them through other channels and programs,” she said. “It’s been a great experience. I’ve been so blessed.”

Employment

CLASSIFIED

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

HERALD

To pLACE your AD CALL 516-569-4000 - press 5

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail you ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify and ad.

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ADMINISTRATIVE

Richner Communications - a rapidly growing multimedia company and publishers of the Herald newspaper group has several administrative job openings: Receptionist (F/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 orientated and able to work well under deadlines. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

IMMEDIATE HIRE

P/T Shifts Available Flexible Hours

Double Pay-Holidays CALL AGENCY

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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 ehecker@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

Health Care/Opportunities

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 sbrinton@liherald.com

GOODYEAR AUTO SERVICE

AUTO MECHANIC (F/T or P/T) $1000.00 HIRING BONUS Experience in General Repairs Excellent Pay Call (516) 661-8471 Send Resume: yonab@autofix.com

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To join our team, please email your resume to careers@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 Ext #235

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A Growing Multi Media Company Based in Garden City Is Hiring:

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Richner Communications is looking for a hands-on Human Resources professional to oversee all HR functions on a strategic and tactical level. Exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and expanding Garden City, Long Island media company. This position has a flexible schedule, part-time job share would be considered. Responsibilities: Talent acquisition: Source, screen, and interview potential candidates and manage new employee onboarding Benefits administration: Liaise with brokers, providers and facilitate enrollment and updating of coverage. Manage annual open enrollment and employee benefits review. Administration of 401(k) plan. Employee relations: Provide day- today support and problem resolution in regards to employee concerns, questions and policy issues. Performance management: Coach, counsel and recommend disciplinary actions Compliance: Maintain indepth knowledge of legal requirements related to day-to-day management of employees, reducing legal risk and ensuring regulatory compliance Payroll: Process biweekly payroll through payroll vendor for population of 150 employees Requirements: Bachelor's degree, preferably in business or HR, or equivalent experience Minimum 5 years HR generalist experience Knowledge of Federal, State & Local regulations governing employment Experience with payroll processing Self-motivated, ability to prioritize and work well under pressure Customer-focused attitude, with high level of professionalism and discretion Excellent oral and written communication and quantitative skills Proficiency with Microsoft Office Qualified candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to: careers@liherald.com.

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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. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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Richner Communications has openings for Outside Sales Executives to Sell Digital and Print advertising Service and sell both existing and developing new business. If you have the desire to succeed in our fast paced business and are motivated, dependable, have strong communication skills and can manage your own time, We would like to hear from you! Base salary with commission plan. Paid sick/personal days, vacation and paid holidays. Sales experience is a plus but we will train the right person to learn the industry. email resume to careers@liherald.com

TAX PREPARER P/T Franklin Square Experience Needed. Retirees Welcome. C a l l 5 1 6 - 3 5 8 - 9 4 5 5 Fa x R e s u m e 516 358-9483. Email Resume: ed@loturco.com.

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Builders sometimes do what they want

Homes

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Q. I’m trying to understand why my construction was rejected three times. The inspector said it doesn’t follow the plans, and certain things don’t match the building code. He wouldn’t tell me what was wrong, saying the architect needs to see it, tell us what it was and either write a letter or get the contractor to change it. Either way, we’re now delayed, and I want to know who’s responsible?

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

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A. It starts with misunderstanding what is enforceable and who enforces. Plans are prepared well ahead of getting permit review, and long before contractors estimate or make a contract with the owner. Plans get more scrutiny than ever before, partially due to the expectation that, because most are prepared by computer, tons more information can onte eeper magically be cut and pasted or that, somehow, 3-D views automatically appear, which is false. Planning also gets more scrutiny because many people have no intention of applying for permits, avoiding expense and time. So building officials seem ready to look for more information to cover issues that might apply to the proposed work. For example, a survey showed a winding border “brick retaining wall” at a property edge, prompting hours of calls, pictures, letters and proof to show the flower bed edging was loosely laid bricks so weeds wouldn’t grow from the lawn to the flower bed. After planning finally gets beyond the “prove it” phase, a permit may be issued and the contractor takes over. At the construction stage, plans have a slight chance of being followed to the letter, but quite often, builders do whatever they choose. Once in a while there’s the pleasant surprise of a conscientious individual who communicates before just altering the job to something not intended. Where this leads is that most consumers believe, falsely, that builders probably know the laws and the necessary engineering, and the outcome will be seamless. Unfortunately, because nobody on a residential project holds the builders responsible for taking liberties with the plans, the permits, the law or critical engineering problems, they’re free to create significant problems for the owner. The dilemma is further reinforced by officials who don’t hold the builder responsible, so instead, they deflect the responsibility to the “design professional,” mainly because they can, not because the architect or engineer is involved in poor decisions that led to the problems. I’ve seen the wrong beams installed, missing reinforcing, the building placed in the wrong spot, wrong roof angles creating building height violations that rerouted the project back through a nine-month zoning board revisit, windows substituted that no longer meet the emergency-escape requirements, using particle board instead of structural plywood — the list goes on and on. How anyone can ask for a letter to cover the mess and just make it go away by expecting the architect or engineer to just write a letter is ridiculous, but asked for all the time. You think you’re being protected by officials, but are you really? Good luck!

Ask The Architect

Sara Abikzer Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Signature Premier Properties Cell-516-984-6798 Office-516-741-4333 www.saraabikzer.com @sarasellsli

Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299

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HEWLETT 1534 Broadway #103, BA, BRAND NEW GUT RENOVATION! Spacious 2 BR, 2 Bth Condo in Luxurious Jonathan Hall. LR/DR Opens Into Large Gran/Wood EIK w/ Island & Stainless Steel Appl. Laundry Rm, & Pantry. Mstr Ste Boasts New Bath & Huge Walk in Closet. Terrace Facing into Courtyard. Doorman Bldg with Elevator. Indoor Garage Pkg & Storage ............................................. $850,000 395 Serena Rd, 5 BR, 2 Bth Col on O/S Property. Updtd EIKs. 3 BR Main Level, 2 Upstairs with OSE, SD#14, Possible M/D with Proper Permits. Near All ...............................................REDUCED! $749,000 156 E Rockaway Rd, BA, Rental of a Renovated 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bth Apt with Spacious Gourmet Kitchen Use of Patio & Outdoor Space ........................................................................................$3,850

CEdaRHURST WATERFRONT LAND for sale! Great Opportunity to Build Dream Home. Permits Required. SD#15 ........................................ $399,000

REAL ESTATE Open Houses HEWLETT 156 E Rockaway Rd, BA, Rental of a Renovated 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bth Apt with Spacious Gourmet Kitchen Use of Patio & Outdoor Space...$3,850 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

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HEWLETT BAY PARK BA,, 40 Heron Dr, REDUCED!!10,000 Sq Ft Waterfront Proper ty on an Acre of Parklike Grounds Tucked away in Cul de Sac. 5 BR, 5.5 Bth Contemporary. Soaring Ceilings. IG Pool, Hot Tub. 285' Vinyl Bulkhead Raised & Redone. Dock.3 Car Garage...$3,499,000 R o n n i e G e r b e r, D o u g l a s E l l i m a n 516-238-4299

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© 2021 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.

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opINIoNS

he towns, cities and villages of Long Island have their own recorded and unrecorded histories. Their stories are told by local historians, librarians and historical societies. In many cases, lacking those resources, the history of those communities disappears year by year with the passing of the people who were blessed with those long-term memories. Long Beach, one of South Shore residents’ most popular coastal escapes, is one of those placJERRY es whose colorful history has filled KREMER numerous books, and is lucky enough to have residents who make it their mission to keep its history enshrined in books and fading photographs. One of the keepers of Long Beach history, Paul Jackson, died recently, leaving behind a number of hard-to-find books and other cherished notes that will fade in time. Jackson was a prolific writer, and published a number of books that gained the attention of history critics across the country. His first, “Our Town, Our Time: Long Beach, L.I. in the 1930s and WWII,”

was a nostalgic look at the seaside city, with recollections of the schools, stores, movie theaters, the boardwalk and hotels. Orphan’s Day, the big bank robbery of 1939 and the murder of the mayor by a cop were its highlights. Jackson chronicled the experiences of 250 returning GI’s and wrote about the 30 Long Beach men who were killed in the war. His second book “Scoundrels by the Sea: The Sullied Past of Long Beach Politicians, Swindlers, Bootleggers — and Worse,” wasn’t published until 2013, long after Jackson left his chosen profession. In that book he took on dozens of deceased politicians, such as District Attorney William Cahn, State Assembly Speaker Joe Carlino, Democratic Leader Phil Kohut and Tammany Hall Leader Jimmy Hines, and described at length the lesser-known events and personalities that made Long Beach unique, compared with its many neighboring communities. While not a colorful celebrity, Jackson’ primary job was as editor and publisher of the weekly Long Beach Independent, which dated back to the late 1930s but ceased publishing in 1976. I got to know him when I was 12 years old, and had the temerity to walk into the paper’s office on

Park Place and offer my services as a writer. I didn’t ask for money, but just the opportunity to write for free, which had become a childhood passion. Jackson was impressed with my nerve, and I was assigned to read the dozens of press releases that came in each week and try to boil each one down to a simple paragraph. In my early days at the Independent, I didn’t understand much about Long Beach politics, but I learned in a short time that it was brutal. There was no real Republican Party, but the city boasted the presence of the Assembly speaker, Carlino. The two factions were the group headed by the Democratic Party leader, Kohut, and his adversary, former Mayor Theodore Ornstein. Working for a weekly newspaper while at the same time trying to launch my own political career was a great challenge. Jackson didn’t believe in political correctness, and one by one, he challenged the people in power with blistering commentary. During those tumultuous years, I tried to walk a straight line between the factions, but sooner or later I would be forced to choose a side to survive. In those years, the most valuable asset that any weekly could have was the des-

met him when I was 12, and offered my services as a writer for the Independent.

ignation as the city’s official newspaper. That meant that all of the city’s legal notices were published in that paper. Survival depended on whether the political bosses favored your paper over its local rival. Eventually Jackson’s political commentary got under Kohut’s skin, and the Independent lost that coveted designation. Jackson’s career as an editor and publisher lasted only a few years, and without that valuable patronage, the Independent ceased publication. I continued to work part-time for weekly papers until I graduated from law school, worked as a city prosecutor and was elected to the Assembly. I had a brief encounter with Jackson when my book “Winning Albany” was published. Jackson was upset with my friendly relationship with “Boss Kohut.” The people who work hard to preserve Long Beach history owe a special debt of gratitude to Jackson for his dedicated work in chronicling so many key moments of local history. A side note: “Scoundrels by the Sea” lists for $122 on Amazon. Jerry Kremer was a state 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.

How did you get through? In 50 words or less.

ell me your story. If you’re reading this, you are living through a deadly pandemic that has killed more than five million people worldwide. So far. If you’re reading this, you are just coming off Thanksgiving and zooming toward peak holiday season. Expectations for joy abound, lights dazzle and music bombards us with its slightly out-ofsync cheer. Some of us gather strength and purpose from the festive spirit. Some of us feel that the RANDI gifting and shopKREISS ping, and the stuffing of turkeys and ourselves, are just too much. Post-vaccine, we are resuming, life but not exactly. We are moving toward normal but watching the new variant coming from South Africa. Flights are canceled again. Holiday parties are on again, off again, depending on where you live and what the rules are. The one absolute commonality we share: We are alive in this moment, during the worst epidemic of our genera-

tion. Each of us has a story to tell, and I would like to offer this space for you to share yours. Some years ago, my son-in-law, Josh, said he wanted to interview my parents for StoryCorps.org, an online website where anyone can post a story about themselves. Once posted, it lives on in perpetuity. More recently, Storyworth has taken off. Another venue, it sends the person of your choice weekly questions and, at the end of a year, compiles the answers into a book, which becomes a keepsake of their thoughts or history or memories. Moth Radio features first-person human-interest stories. We have been telling one another stories ever since men and women were able to scrawl drawings on caves. We share common memories, but we see those bygone events through varying prisms. The truth of any one person’s stories is always on a sliding scale. When Josh called me and asked if it was OK for him to record my parents and post their stories to StoryCorps. org, it was the worst possible time. My folks were 97 and 92 years old. They

lived in south Florida. Josh lived in California, way north of San Francisco and far away from any reasonable international airport. He said he had only two days he could travel to my folks’, including flying time. I told Josh it wasn’t a good time. I knew it wasn’t a good time. I suggested we leave it to my mother. She said yes. Josh flew on a Thursday, arriving at their house at 1 a.m. on Friday. That day he interviewed each of my parents for four to five hours, on and off, between their meals and physical therapy sessions and looking for my dad’s cane, hat, shoes, eating glasses, reading glasses and walking glasses. Josh was on the ground in Florida for about 24 hours. The stories are now part of StoryCorps history, and they’re even more precious now. Dad died in 2017. Mom died two years later. We all want to be known, to say in words that we have walked the earth and lived and loved. In this pandemic, we want to get out of our own heads, where we’ve been living alone for so long, and tell the world how we’re getting through. How has our work

he need to tell stories is etched into our souls. Why not try it in this space?

changed? What happened in school and out of school? What was it like to care for young children day after day and month after month with little relief aside from outdoor gatherings? As a longtime married woman, I feel like the subject of an experiment on human behavior. The question: How do isolation and stress affect marriage? In March 2020, most of us thought the virus might knock us off our routines for a few weeks. Now I have a 50-page folder of Covid Cuisine, quick meals for when we want to eat but I don’t want to cook. The need to tell stories is etched into our souls, part of our DNA. Why not try it in this space? Please, tell me your pandemic story in 50 words or fewer, and I’ll use my column to post the most compelling ones. You can be anonymous if you wish. We did this before, in less dramatic times, and it was enlightening. So, take a few minutes and put together a few words. Send them to the email below. I’ve been telling you my story every week since the pandemic fractured our sense of well-being. I want to know yours. Copyright 2021 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

RIP Paul Jackson, renowned South Shore historian

Herald editorials

Merrick

December 2, 2021 — MERRICK HERALD

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A new Covid variant is on the march. Mask up!

n recent months, we have seen a growing number of parents crowding school board meetings across Long Island, protesting the state mandate requiring students to mask up in schools. In public spaces, from the mall to your local coffee shop and grocery store, many people no longer wear masks, believing they aren’t necessary anymore. Last week, we were hit by a harsh dose of reality: Seemingly out of nowhere, a new strain of the coronavirus, which scientists called the Omicron variant, reared its ugly head, first in South Africa and then Israel, several Western European countries, Hong Kong and Australia. Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Biden’s chief medical adviser, said over the weekend that the strain had not yet been detected in the U.S., but it could very well be here.

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South Africa discovered the strain first because health officials there were investigating why the country went from 200 coronavirus cases a day only recently to some 2,465 cases on Nov. 25, according to the Associate Press. What does this tell us? One, we must not think we have vanquished the coronavirus. It is still lurking worldwide, and anywhere and any time an infectious strain of the virus arises, there is the potential for it to spread to us here, on Long Island. So we must continue masking and social-distancing protocols to limit its transmission. This new strain is potentially more insidious than the Delta variant, which has ravaged the world, because the vaccines may be less effective in providing immunity against it. Scientists are study-

This holiday season for sure, shop locally

ach year, we encourage our readers to shop locally, in your community’s downtown, during the holidays. With the coronavirus pandemic still raging, we’re doubling down on that advice. We know Covid-19 spreads among dense populations. That only makes sense. It’s an airborne disease, so when people are tightly packed into small or confined spaces, there’s a greater chance that the virus will be transmitted from one person to the next. Shopping in your downtown, with its smaller stores, where customer density can be better controlled than at the malls and superstores, would thus seem like a

smart move, particularly now, with the rise around the world of the Omicron variant, against which the vaccines may be less effective. Beyond that, shopping locally is just good for your community. Keeping local shops and eateries in business supports the tax base, and bolsters homeowners’ property values. By contrast, downtowns full of boarded-up shops lead to rising property taxes for homeowners and plummeting house values. That is, shopping locally is in your self-interest. Moreover, it is a way to give back to the people who give so much to their communities. Local shop and restaurant

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ing whether that is the case, and it could be weeks before we know the answer for sure. You should be vaccinated just in case — and to fight the many other Covid-19 variants. And we should vaccinate ourselves ASAP. That includes teenagers and children. New strains of the virus emerge in the unvaccinated population. It’s there where the virus can continue to spread, and any time it is transmitted from one person to the next, it has the potential to mutate. Mutation — the ability of the virus to re-engineer itself — is its survival mechanism. If it does not spread, it cannot continue to mutate. We are in the battle of our lives here. Like it or not, we must remember that this holiday season.

letters Jan. 6 was ‘just a protest’ To the Editor: Re Scott Brinton’s column “Recalling two failed coups that will live in infamy” (Nov. 25-Dec. 1): I agree that what happened in 1991 in the Soviet Union was important, and should be memorialized, as it was in the 2015 documentary “The Event.” I wish I had seen it. But I recall a hapless Boris Yeltsin, soon to be succeeded by Vladimir Putin. And Bulgaria found its rightful destiny. Above all, I would appreciate no extrapolations of that or other similar coup attempts to what happened at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. As a first-generation immigrant, I could not be prouder of our America. I am thrilled to be here, and that includes all our presidents. On Jan. 6, all our institutions held firm and did not budge — no insurrection, no riot, just a protest. To become a proud citizen, I learned that our

owners are the folks who sponsor Little League teams and donate to the Girl and Boy Scouts. They are the ones who organize fundraisers for children stricken by deadly diseases, and who advocate for better roads and schools in their communities. The owners of the small businesses that line the streets of our communities are us. That’s why you are more likely to receive competent service and a friendly smile when you shop locally. The coming month has the potential to challenge us in unforeseen ways. Now is the time to be safe — and that means being smart. Start by shopping locally.

opinions

axes, property assessments, crime and schools were top concerns for Long Island politicians in the Nov. 2 elections. Both Democrats and Republicans tried to persuade voters that they would do a better job of keeping us safe and financially secure. In 2021, however, these standard suburban issues motivated more Republicans than Democrats to show up and vote, resulting in a change in party leadership in Nassau County’s executive branch and the Suffolk County MArTine Legislature. For suburban resiHAckeTT dents, the added expectation and understanding is that our high tax dollars show up to maintain our quality of life in the services that the government provides. We are paying for safety from crime, but also the safety of the air we breathe and the water we drink, and protection during a pandemic. But in campaign materials, and apparently on most voters’ minds, one major

issue seemed to be missing: the ongoing public health crisis that is the Covid-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 750,000 Americans. If Covid was mentioned by candidates during campaigning, it was with promises of what the government would not do — no mask mandates in schools, no employee-mandated vaccines. While political parties focus on the topics that they believe will get people to the polls, some issues, like public health, need to be supported no matter who is in power. Public health is by its nature political. It must be. In the earliest days of the United States, protecting citizens from infectious diseases like yellow fever fell to local municipalities, which enacted quarantine regulations for ships that arrived at coastal cities. The first public health agency was created in 1866 in New York City, and reduced deaths from a cholera epidemic that year through inspections, investigations and disinfection. Cities that did not have a public system to monitor and combat the epidemic experienced many more deaths. Government action is necessary to

n their 2020 campaigns, candidates promised what the government would not do.

LeTTers nation is based on three separate branches — the executive, legislative and judicial. As a lawyer for 45 years, I can assure you that all was well outside, as well as inside, the D.C. “Beltway” on Jan. 6. If there really was a coup attempt, what disruptive aftermath did it cause? The fact is, there was no disruption, and, mercifully, life goes on. I only wish Brinton had more faith. God Bless America. WILLIAM J. A. SPARkS, ESq. Merrick

Who’s doing the censoring, Randi? To the Editor: I was reading Randi kreiss’s column “Sticks and stones — words can never harm me” (Nov. 18-24), about censorship and book burning, anticipating with relish the words she would use to describe the censorship exercised by the major social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) against voices on the right that they oppose. Instead kreiss turned it around, and accused Trump supporters and associated people on the right of seeking to impose censorship! I was astounded. Where are the examples? Her examples, “flames rising from places like Virginia” and Texas ordering school officials to look in schoolbooks for pornography, were weak and

carry out the work of public health. How else do you get sewers across jurisdictions? Who else would pay for the clean water and the pipes to bring it into your home? Would restaurants regulate themselves to keep food preparation safe? The work to ensure public health must be carried out no matter what ideology is popular or which party has been elected to lead. The needs of public health continue no matter who is in power. Meanwhile, there are other pressing public health issues in Nassau and Suffolk counties that require political support: the increase in substance use and overdose deaths; the significant mental health strain of anxiety and depression among young people; and high rates of maternal and infant mortality. Collective and coordinated political action worked on Long Island to manage the spread of Covid-19 by deploying wideranging techniques similar to those used more than 150 years ago to combat cholera. Modern approaches to public health now also recognize that social factors play

a key role in people’s health. We saw this when the coronavirus pandemic devastated communities of color in Nassau and Suffolk counties, and recognize that the people in these communities were not solely to blame. Rather, it was the underlying conditions that existed before the pandemic — food insecurity, crowded housing, lack of internet access — that made outcomes so much worse for some than for others. Political forces need to address these public health priorities as well. At a time when party lines are dividing those who are vaccinated and those who are not, when mandating mask wearing to protect the health of everyone is framed as a matter of individual choice, we have lost the nonpartisan thread of public health. Whoever is in power in Nassau and Suffolk needs to address the longstanding issues of public health by doing what works and acknowledging the vital role that government action has on health outcomes. Red and blue waves come and go on Long Island every few years, but political public health action must remain constant. Dr. Martine Hackett is an associate professor in the Master of Public Health and Community Health Programs at Hofstra University.

FrAMework by Ashley Ferrante

non-specific. She certainly did not cite the fact that many books that were traditionally read in high school, like “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” are now banned — yes, censored — by schools. LEoN SUTToN, PH.D. Long Beach

Paying for those D.C. spending bills To the Editor: President Biden, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and their respective Democratic House and Senate caucus members claim that both the $1.2 trillion infrastructure and $1.75 trillion Build Back America bills are fully paid for. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget office found that the first bill would add $228 billion, and the second bill $367 billion, to our $29 trillion-and-growing national debt over the next 10 years. If they are so confident of this financing scheme, let them all put up their respective future pensions, 401(k) retirement plans, stocks, bonds, cars, homes, Social Security earnings and other assets as collateral. Place all of them in a blind trust on behalf of taxpayers. This could serve as a small down payment to cover the inevitable multi-billion-dollar shortfall in anticipated revenues to pay for both bills over the coming years. Ask

The Atlantic at sunset — Long Beach

their spouses or significant others to do the same. Biden, Schumer, Pelosi and company remind me of J. Wellington Wimpy, who famously said, “I’ll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today.” Tuesday

may never come for taxpayers who must pay for all the goodies promised by them within their lifetimes. LARRY PENNER Great Neck

MERRICK HERALD — December 2, 2021

Public health is political, but shouldn’t be partisan

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December 2, 2021 — MERRICK HERALD

Meadowbrook Pointe East Meadow Meadowbrook Pointe East Meadow Phase 2 Now Selling at

Meadowbrook Pointe East Meadow

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You're invited! Join us for a tour of our Designer Models You're invited! Join us for a tour of our Designer Models Dec 9th, 10th and 11th | 11am to 4pm | By appointment only invited! Join us for a tour of our Designer Models DecYou're 9th, 10th and 11th | 11am to 4pm | By appointment only Meadowbrook Pointe East Meadow is the premier destination for your next chapter. Dec 9th, 10th and 11th | 11am to 4pm | By appointment only An active adult community exceptional living spaces, a spectacular clubhouse and Meadowbrook Pointe East with Meadow is the premier destination for your next chapter.

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now Nassau County's significant reduction on newaconstruction homes. Meadowbrook Pointe East Meadow istax the premier destination for your next chapter. and An active adult community with exceptional living spaces, spectacular clubhouse Annow active adult community with exceptional living spaces, a spectacular clubhouse and Nassau County's significant tax reduction on new construction homes.

Open now 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm | Villa's starting from the low $600,000s*. Nassau County's significant tax reduction on new construction homes.

516.206.3094 Open 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm | Villa's starting from the low $600,000s*. Open 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm | Villa's starting from the low $600,000s*. BeechwoodHomes.com 123 Merrick Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554 516.206.3094 516.206.3094 BeechwoodHomes.com BeechwoodHomes.com 123 Merrick Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554 123 Merrick Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554

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*Pricing, renderings, and availability subject to change without notice. The complete terms are in an Offering Plan available from Sponsor. File No. CD19-0071. Equal housing opportunity. †Artist Rendering. *Actual Photo. *Pricing, renderings, and availability subject to change without notice. The complete terms are in an Offering Plan available from Sponsor. File No. CD19-0071. Equal housing opportunity. †Artist Rendering. *Actual Photo.