Merrick Herald 01-18-2024 by Richner Communications, Inc

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Raccoon illness rates are high across TOH us, work out of our houses.” Her daily routine involves caring for a variety of animals Karenlynn Stracher first in need of rehabilitation. In the helped an injured gull when morning she feeds as many as she was 17. Now, nearly 40 100 animals, which include years later, her home doubles birds, raccoons, and squirrels that she houses in as an animal rehacages. She feeds bilitation center. them by bottle or S t r a c h e r, 5 6 , syringe. She keeps rehabilitates sick water bottles and and injured wild dishes of food full. animals across NasAll the cages are sau County. She is a cleaned every day. one-woman show, “After that, I go caring for a couple into food pre p,” of hundred winged Stracher said. “So I and four-le g g ed mix for mulas for patients every year. different species, I Now she is pleading chop ve getables, with the Town of and then, by that Hempstead to open time, it’s usually a facility where anitime for afternoon mals can get the KARENlYNN feedings.” attention and help STRACHER At the end of the they need, as she Animal rehabilitator day, she does the f a c e s ch a l l e n g e s laundry, washing including an outbreak of a fatal disorder in rac- the blankets, towel and rags she coons in Town of Hempstead uses to keep the animals warm and clean. She must feed baby communities. “Volunteers for Wildlife, animals every two to three who was the only wildlife reha- hours around the clock, so, she bilitation center in Nassau said, she is up all night long. Any free time she has usualCounty, left Nassau County last year,” Stracher said. “So what- ly involves taking calls from ever rehabbers are left in Nas- animal control of ficers, or sau County, which are a few of

By BEN FIEBERT

bfiebert@liherald.com

Maureen Lennon/Herald

Flea market fun at Merrick train station All winter long, there’s a flea market at the Merrick Long Island Railroad station. Hosted in partnership by Nassau County Fairs with the Merrick Chamber of Commerce, there’s treasures galore for people to fine. Story, more photos, Page 10.

Mindfulness retreat in North Merrick Focuses on easing stress, improving mental health By RACHElE TERRANoVA rterranova@liherald.com

As part of the North Merrick school district’s commitment to mental health and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, the district hosted its second annual Mindfulness Retreat on Jan. 11. Families of students in fourth through sixth grades relaxed, bonded and relieved stress throughout the event, which was held at Old Mill Road School. After the coronavirus pandemic, North Merrick took a close look at the mental health of district students, and decided to take a more rounded and holistic approach to their educational, given their diverse needs. From this approach, the Mindfulness Program was born — an after-

school club in which students in all grades are invited to learn about activities that can improve their mental health. School guidance counselors, social workers and psychologists all consult on the program. “In all of our North Merrick schools, mindful activities are incorporated into every child’s school day routine,” Superintendent Cynthia Seniuk said. “Through such activities, whether during the school day or at after-school events, our students are supported in leading a mentally healthier life and improving their well-being.” “This is really a way to show the community what we’re doing within the confines of the school day that they might not be privy to,” added Amanda Hocevar, the mindfulness retreat Continued on page 12

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rehabbers are left in Nassau County, which are a few of us, work out of our houses.

Continued on page 2

January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

Rehabber says there’s need for care center Continued from page 1

police, letting her know about animals that needs help, or residents asking for assistance. Due to her workload, she has asked the Hempstead Town Board if the town could open a rehab facility for her to use, but after repeated requests, town officials said they don’t have any space to give her. Stracher said that her next step will be to ask the county for a rehab center. She hopes to incorporate what she is calling Long Island Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Inc. into a nonprofit in order to increase the chances of finding a facility more suited to her work than its current headquarters, her daughter’s bedroom. Other volunteers lend a hand, but Stracher said her family doesn’t want people coming and going into and out of their home all day long. “It’s a very difficult situation,” she said. “But if I say no, a lot of times these animals would die, and I feel terrible about that.” She is currently dealing with one of the worst outbreaks in memory of canine distemper in raccoons. Distemper, the second leading cause of death among raccoons after human activities like hunting

and trapping, is a virus that infects the animals’ respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, spinal cord and brain, and is always fatal. A different strain of the disease, feline distemper, can also infect raccoons as it spreads rapidly among feral cats, killing large numbers of them. To prevent that, Stracher advises that people who feed feral cats do so only during daylight hours, and sanitize their feeding bowls at night. “Right now, Freeport and Baldwin are the worst in terms of distemper cases,” she said. Stracher posted a TikTok video of her testing a raccoon for distemper in Baldwin early last week, which garnered tens of thousands of likes. She captured the animal with a net, gently put it in a cage, and then, using a test similar to a rapid Covid-19 test, determined that the raccoon was indeed positive for distemper. The only option for raccoons that contract the disease is to take them to local veterinarians to be euthanized; otherwise they are left to suffer. That’s one of the reasons why Stracher would like to have a centralized location where anyone can take wildlife to be rehabilitated. Because there currently is

among the animals Karenlynn Stracher cares for are squirrels, which she feeds with syringes. none, she said, people often give up on helping sick and injured wild animals. “You have no idea how many people call me and say ‘I’ve had this animal since yesterday, and I couldn’t get help,’ or ‘You’re my 20th phone call and nobody is returning my calls,’” she said. “I just want one centralized location where anybody in the Town of Hempstead or Nassau County can call and know it will be answered.”

Photos courtesy Karenlynn Stracher

Karenlynn Stracher rehabilitates hundreds of animals every year, such as this opossum, in her home.

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Say ‘bahhh’ for Hempstead’s Mulchfest

MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

The Town of Hempstead’s Mulchfest is 4 years strong, and last week, officials gathered at the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve in Merrick to announce this year’s festivities — and who this year’s event would benefit. Mulchfests are events or programs organized in some communities where Christmas trees are collected from residents after the holiday season. Instead of discarding the trees as waste, they are recycled by turning them into mulch. The collected trees are chipped, and the resulting mulch is often used for various purposes, such as landscaping, gardening, or erosion control. The town’s Mulchfest took place at Baldwin Park on Jan. 13 and 14. Town of Hempstead workers took the trees from residents and then processed them to create mulch. Mulchfest is a sustainable way to repurpose Christmas trees and promote environmental conservation by reducing waste and providing a valuable resource for landscaping purposes. Supervisor Don Clavin announced this year’s event alongside Town of Hempstead council members Laura Ryder, Tom Muscarella and Dorothy Goosby and Town Clerk Kate Murray. And for the second year in a row, leftover mulch is given to Levy Park’s most famous residents — a heard of Nigerian Dwarf goats. Christmas trees, despite all their piney needles, are quite the delicacy for the goats. The original herd of goats was joined by new additions in 2023, as well as some sheep. “We’ve had such rewarding feedback from people — people who have one, either taken their Christmas tree and use it in their yard and repurposing it and doing what’s great from them,” Clavin said. “Or secondly, donating it right down here. These goats are treasured at the Levy preserve. Residents love to come down and say hi to them every morning.” Clavin said Pat’s Farms, a grocery store in North Merrick on Merrick Avenue, donated excess trees this year, and it did last year.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Town of Hempstead officials spoke at the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve last week about its annual Mulchfest. At the event, residents can have their Christmas tress turned into mulch. Leftover mulch is given to the goats who live at the preserve. “I want to thank all the residents because we do a lot of fun things in the Town of Hempstead, and this is definitely one,” Clavin added. “This is an opportunity for the residents who want to do something great environmentally, or give back to the community, and see a little joy — because it’s not just the goats that appreciate it.” If residents want to turn their trees into mulch for the goats, but were unable to attend the event, they can also bring them to Levy Park. During the winter, the park is open to 4:30 p.m. daily and weather permitting. It’s located at 1600 Merrick Road in Merrick. Clavin encouraged residents to make use of the park, and take in all it has to offer. “You’ll see residents down here year round,” he said. “You have beautiful views of the city, beautiful views of the water, and it’s part of the beauty of Long Island and most importantly, you can come visit the goats.”

Supervisor Don Clavin threw a tree into the back of a wood chipper.

The Levy preserve boasts walking trails, a kayak launch and the highest summit on the South Shore of Long Island. Its year-round residents include a herd of Nigerian Dwarf goats. Despite the piney needles, Christmas trees are safe for them to eat.

At the Mulchfest in Baldwin Park, Town of Hempstead employees took trees from residents. The event took place on Jan. 13 and 14.

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Budget Advisory Committee looking for more participants in North Merrick S.D. The North Merrick School District’s Board of Education is continuing its effort to encourage interested parties to participated in the finalization of the district’s budget. It is forming a Budget Advisory Committee. The function of the members is to provide input for the 2024-25 school year

budget and to assist the Board of Education in finalizing the budget. Those interested in participating can email Thomas McDaid, assistant superintendent for business and operations, at tmcdaid@nmerrick.org, by 12 P.m. on Jan. 19. — Jordan Vallone

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Herald File

The North Merrick Board of Education is seeking people to join a Budget Advisory Committee for the 2024-25 budget.

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For 2024, the exemptions for estate taxes rise to 6.94 million for New York estate taxes, and to 13.61 million for Federal estate taxes. The annual gift tax exclusion rises to $18,000. If your estate is, or may become, greater than the New York threshold, early intervention can avoid the hefty New York estate taxes, which start at over $500,000. Some of the techniques are (1) setting up two trusts, one for husband and one for wife, and using them to double the New York exemption, (2) gifting out so much of the estate so as to reduce it below the New York exemption, at least three years before the death of the donor, and (3) using the “Santa Clause” providing that the amount over the threshold be donated to a charity or charities of your choosing so as to reduce the estate to no more than the exemption. For Medicaid, the house is an exempt asset so long as a spouse is residing there, up to $1,071,000 of equity for 2024. Seeing as over 80% of nursing home residents do not have a spouse, it is better to plan ahead

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January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

Protecting Your Future

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The Merrick Herald life USPS 017651, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Merrick Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Subscription rates: $60 for 1 year. Annual Subscription Rates, $9.75 per quarter auto-pay or $50 one-time payment within Nassau County or $60 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2024 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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January 18, 2024 — HERALD

Community banking is about more than just money mhinman@liherald.com

So many of us remember when our mother or father walked us to the bank, helping us open up that savings account for the very first time. The teller — more than patient — explaining why she’s taking that $10 bill from you, and where it’s going. Today, however, more people have never stepped inside a bank than those who have, taking advantage of technological conveniences. But that doesn’t mean your neighborhood bank is going away anytime soon. “Looking back, banking was an industry that probably didn’t change for 100 years,” said Marc Perez, president of Bank of America Long Island, and a Herald Top Chief Executive Officer last year. “And then, once digital capabilities and a digital platform became available, it changed pretty quickly over a relatively short period of time.” Perez took over the Long Island portion of Bank of America in 2021, succeeding longtime president Bob Isaksen. Perez had already spent two decades with Bank of America, and was able to experience this massive paradigm shift firsthand. A number of other bank chains have consolidated and even closed branches. Bank of America, however, took a different approach.

“We have what I would call a hightech, high-touch focus,” Perez said. “We’re going to operate our business based upon what our clients tell us they want from us, not necessarily what we want to do going forward.” And that means many prefer to do their typical banking while they’re relaxing on the couch, or in-between tasks while at work. Yet, there are other aspects of banking where that face-to-face still reigns supreme. “If they’re inquiring about a car loan, or a mortgage, or investing for their future, they really still want that high-touch experience,” Perez said. Bank of America still maintains more than 60 financial centers across Long Island, he says, not only keeping money accessible, but providing jobs for communities from employees who, themselves, like giving back. Last year, leading up to the holiday season, 1,200 local employees donated more than 5,500 hours of volunteer service — the equivalent of 229 days. The local branches themselves have also invested nearly $10 million in local nonprofits over the last five years. “I think that, now more than ever, when you want to do business with a company, you want to have shared values,” Perez said. Perez himself remains active as a board member for Long Island Cares, and volunteers for a number of organi-

zations that include Island Harvest, the Interfaith Nutrition Network, Catholic Charities, and United Way of Long Island. The bank has supported Perez by fronting $500,000 to Long Island Cares so it could open a satellite center in Hampton Bays. “It’s more about creating more of a sustainable future for Long Islanders, and focusing on workforce development,” Perez said. Moving that forward from a more corporate perspective is Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders program. Celebrating 20 years, the philanthropic effort chooses two non-profits, and gives them $200,000 to cover general operating costs. “Most of them use (the funds) for expansion of existing services, to increase their reach, or to develop wraparound services for people that they serve,” Perez said. “We also take both the director and an emerging leader from the organization, and we invite them into a leadership program that provides growth and development training to prepare them for long-term success.” Banks have always been an integral part of any community, and Perez says he’s glad not even technology can change that. “Long Island is a special place,” he said. “The people that work here also live here, play here, raise their families

HERALD — January 18, 2024

By MICHAEL HINMAN

Courtesy Bank of America

Marc Perez was named president of Bank of America Long Island in 2021, succeeding longtime local leader Bob Isaksen. It’s a new day and age for banking on Long Island — and in America — but Perez says he’s ready for the future. here. There’s a deeper connection with the community here for our employees, and that’s why they’re so passionate about getting involved. And why I get involved.”

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Event Details: February 15, 2024 Time: 10:00 AM

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

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Calhoun focused on strong finish By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com

MAyA MothERwAy East Rockaway Sophomore Basketball ALREADY IN HER third season on the varsity court, Motherway returned as the starting point guard for the Rocks and picked up where she left off when she averaged 13.6 points per game and earned All-County honors. She’s averaging 12.5 ppg so far this winter, including 25 against South Side Dec. 16, and is a major reason East Rockaway stands at 8-4 and seeks to contend for a county title. She also plays AAU travel ball with the Nassau Pride.

GAMES TO WATCH Thursday, Jan. 18 Girls Basketball: Sewanhaka at Carey..................4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball: East Meadow at Long Beach ......... 5 p.m. Girls Basketball: Roslyn at Elmont ............................ 5 p.m. Gymnastics: North Shore at Wantagh ..................5:30 p.m. Boys Basketball: Kennedy at Hewlett ........................ 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Long Beach at East Meadow .......... 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Roosevelt at South Side ................. 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Kennedy ........................ 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 19 Boys Basketball: Carey at Sewanhaka .................4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball: Floral Park at Lynbrook ..............4:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North................... 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Lynbrook at Floral Park................... 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Island Trees at Lawrence ................ 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: North Shore at Seaford .................. 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Wantagh at East Rockaway............. 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 20 Girls Basketball: Roosevelt at Lawrence..................10 a.m. Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Freeport .................10 a.m. Boys Basketball: Hicksville at Uniondale.................10 a.m. Girls Basketball: Freeport at Farmingdale ...............10 a.m. Girls Basketball: New Hyde Park at Calhoun ...........12 p.m. Boys Basketball: Plainview at Baldwin ...................... 4 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete” High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and earned an All-Conference award or higher last year. Please send the following information for consideration: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Now that the Calhoun girls’ basketball team is close to whole, its fortunes could be on the uptick. With its premier player, senior point guard Ashleigh Coyne decimated for a month by bouts with Covid-19 and the flu, Calhoun is off to a 4-7 start. Last Friday’s 53-39 conference loss to Elmont was the first game Coyne said she felt close to 100 percent as she scored 12 points with 5 assists. Coyne missed games and played others in a weakened state after having serious Covid symptoms such as full body aches. She’s hopeful her recurring health woes are over. In limited action, she’s still averaging 10.3 points and 4 assists. “It was really frustrating,” Coyne said. “It’s my senior year. Even missing a practice is really upsetting for me. I want all the time I can possibly get. I want to be able to play in a game where I’m not feeling rundown and feel healthy and good.’’ In an effort to get well, Coyne didn’t leave the house during the holiday break. “It was pretty difficult,’’ she said. “I honestly spent the entire break resting and not doing much – sleeping, layjng around. I definitely feel much better. I’m the best I’ve felt in a while and pretty much 100 percent now.’’ At 3-2 in Conference AA2, Calhoun wants to vault to an overall winning record like last season’s 11-9 squad. But the Colts lost their three top scorers from last season’s team and also suffered a seasonending knee injury to Angelica Kasimatis. “We’ve been up and down,’’ head oach Dan Catapano said. “Once Ashleigh’s finally healthy, hopefully we’ll turn this thing around. She’s never been 100 percent. “She’s a four-year varsity player with a ton of experience. When you have your best player as your point guard, she drives the whole thing. We’ll go as she goes.’’ In the interim, Dana Wauchhope and Gabby Facciponti tried picking up the slack. Wauchhope is averaging 9.9 points and 8 rebounds while Facciponti is scoring 8 points per game with an average of 4 steals.

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The Colts are looking to make noise down the stretch but will be without Angelica Kasimatis, right, for the rest of the season due to injury. “Gabby has been a pleasant surprise,’’ Catapano said. “She’s always been a defensive-minded player. She’s been able to impact the game offensively by getting offensive rebounds, penetrating the defense, finding open players.” Another bonus is the play of Kaitlyn DiPaola, who is heating up from deep. Against Division Jan. 3, DiPaola, who also recently recovered from the flu, nailed four 3-pointers. “She’s opened the floor with her 3-point shooting,’’ Catapano said. “She’s starting to find her role.’’ Calhoun hasn’t fared well against its rugged non-league schedule with losses to Division, Seaford and Oceanside. “We

played some tough non-league games to make sure we’re prepared for the latter half of the season,’ Catapano said. Coyne, known for being a facilitator and scorer, believes Calhoun will finish strong. “We’re looking at a good rest of our season,’ said Coyne, who boasts a 99-point school average. “We had a lot of growing to do at the beginning of the year. We were a fairly young group. It was important to spend a lot of time together to build our team chemistry. Now that I’m healthy and everyone’s back. We’ve been having great practices and the future of the season is looking great.”

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January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

Herald file

The Alzheimer’s Association offers a plethora of volunteer opportunities for those interested in finding something to do during the new year. Above, attendees at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Volunteer this January with Alzheimer’s Association January is a traditional time to assess health and make resolutions for the new year. Gyms and fitness classes often fill up as people adopt new habits. If considering ways to improve health in 2024, volunteering might be a worthwhile option. A growing body of research indicates that volunteering offers benefits for both mental and physical well-being and can help maintain cognitive sharpness as people age. Volunteering is also beneficial for brain health. “We know that people find purpose and meaning when they volunteer, but research suggests it can also be an essential aspect of healthy aging,” said Lori Maldavir, director of program outreach at the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter. “Volunteering has benefits that can reduce the risk of dementia.” Research presented last year at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference discovered that, in older adults, volunteering improved executive function and episodic memory. In sim-

pler terms, it means the ability to recall events and experiences, plan, and problem-solve is enhanced. A study published in 2018 found that volunteering, especially activities directly assisting others, reduced feelings of depression, increased life satisfaction, and improved social ties in adults of any age. The researchers incorporated previous studies that found volunteering also increased happiness, reduced stress, and improved self-esteem. The Mayo Clinic recently noted that volunteering releases dopamine in the brain, making individuals feel more relaxed and happier. All these volunteering benefits — improved memory, enhanced mental health, stronger social connections, and reduced stress — contribute to improved brain health and a lowered risk of dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association offers various ways to volunteer and help people in Long Island. Visit Alz.org/longisland for more information.

A NoNprofit orgANizAtioN iN NAssAu CouNty is seekiNg

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the projeCt iNCludes: Fabrication and installation of impact resistant windows and security film. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at grantBids2024@gmail.com

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Grand Avenue Middle School Sebastian Ceballos Stella DiSanto Haley Gordon Worley Pellegrino Emma Pulliza Jenna Sansobrino Joshua Sat Philopater Tawdrous Sauliman Virapen Sophia Whittaker

Sanford H. Calhoun High School Noah Diamant Brynn Hutchins Esra Jakupi Michael Jerozal

Merrick Avenue Middle School Antoine Achkhanian Justin Costanza Tyler Cruse Gianna Cuomo Kristana Ippoliti Matthew Kearney Kyle Locasto Ethan Mann Alexa Tomeo

Meadowbrook Alternative Program AJ Flores

John F. Kennedy High School Ashley Benjamin Alexis Giordano Samantha Kapitansky Kathryn Powder

Prep Academy James D'Auria Wellington C. Mepham High School Alyxandra Bisciello Branche Duval Jonathan Lichter Dana Stone

January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

Braving the cold at a wintertime flea market When you think about flea markets and street fairs, most picture a warm day in the spring, summer or fall. But along Sunrise Highway, travelers on Sundays have likely passed the winter flea market in Merrick — and it’s a great place to get out of the house, stretch your legs and shop around for a trinket or two through the cold months of January, February and March. The flea market happens every weekend, thanks to a collaboration with Nassau County Fairs and the Merrick Chamber of Commerce. There’s plenty of parking and free admission. The entrance is in the parking lot of the corner of Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue, at 1 Broadcast Plaza, Merrick. Since Nov. 26, travelers from near and far have flocked to the fair. Vendors present a unique selection of items, including but not limited to antiques, jewelry, pocketbooks, footwear and more. If vendors want to sign up for the fair which takes place on Sundays only, it’s

$50 a slot. Each vendor will get two parking spaces — one for their vehicle and one to sell items. Vendors can begin setting up for the fair’s opening at 8 a.m. The fair closes at 5 p.m. If you’re planning to attend, fair supervisors recommend dressing warmly and bringing an umbrella. In cases of severe weather, the market will close. There’s a bathrooms on site, and sometimes food vendors as well. There’s something for everyone at the flea market. On Jan. 14, vendor John McCarthy displayed a variety of antiques and jewelry, while Rufino Reyes had bags, wallets and more for sale. It’s not the holiday season any longer, but you never know what you may find. For more information on the market, and ones taking place nearby, visit NassauCountyFairs.com or call (516) 4426000. The last weekend for the fair is March 31. —Jordan Vallone

Maureen Lennon/Herald photos

Vendor Rufino Reyes was selling pocketbooks, wallets, footwear and more.

At Sunday’s flea market on Sunrise Highway, John McCarthy showed off an array of antiques and jewelry for sale. Vendors can partake in the event for $50 a slot. Whether you’re looking for antiques or tools, there’s something for everyone. Rubin Simonov was selling a selection of tools.

Braving the cold, shoppers flocked to the Merrick train station parking lot.

Birch School second graders are Research Experts their research,” explained teacher Crystal Lopez. “They had to find three big ideas from their findings and figure out how they wanted to present that information,” added teacher Liz Doheny. The lesson also helped students build vocabulary and verbal skills, explained teacher Kimberly DePalma. The event, dubbed an expert museum, was a way to celebrate the end of the unit.

After searching for a topic of interest in the school’s library, students spent a few weeks reading and working on both graphic and oral presentations. A NoNprofit orgANizAtioN iN NAssAu CouNty is seekiNg

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the projeCt iNCludes: Fabrication and installation of entryway security doors. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at grantBids2024@gmail.com

Photos courtesy Merrick Union Free School District.

Matthew and Michael took part in the research event.

Bids will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. on February 1, 2024, and work is to commence by March 1, 2024 and be completed by June 30, 2024.

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All interested firms will be required to sign for the proposal documents and provide primary contact, telephone, fax and email address. MWBE businesses are encouraged to bid.

Jewish Services Supervised by Local Rabbis

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MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

Second graders at Birch School set up in the mini gym to explain their chosen research topic in a round robin style presentation to their teachers and peers on Jan. 8. After searching for a topic of interest in the school’s library, students spent a few weeks reading and working on both graphic and oral presentations. “They used digital resources as well where students had to access other pieces of literature they could use towards

‘It’s not something every school district is doing’

January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

Continued from page 1

being, and it’s starting to grow.” coordinator and a speech pathologist in There were a variety of calming and the district. creativity-boosting activities for stuThe pandemic created new levels of dents and their guests at the retreat. stress and anxiety for students, fueled Workshops featured stress-relieving by isolation, uncertainty about the activities including a Zumba class, hostfuture, and concerns about ed by teacher Mara Karfinhealth and safety. The lack kel, a “neurographic drawof social interaction during ings” workshop in which lockdowns took a toll on freehand doodles came alive their well-being. on the page, and “Positivity The shift to online learnRocks,” in which particiing, and the general disruppants wrote affirmations on tion caused by the health criartistically decorated rocks. sis, negatively affected acaI n “ T r a n q u i l W h i rl demic performance. Some winds,” guests crafted cusstudents found it challengtom pinwheels in unique ing to adapt to the new designs and colors. They learning format. mixed ingredients to create The goal of the Mindful“bath bombs” in an aroman e s s P ro g r a m , a n d t h e therapy session, and create retreat, is to get families and “ s n ow d o u g h ” t o h e l p students involved and aware. improve concentration and From improving the social reduce distractions. and emotional well-being of “We (were) thrilled to see students to practicing empaan excellent turnout at this CynThia Seniuk thy and patience, wellyear’s Mindfulness Retreat,” Superintendent, North rounded students begin to Seniuk said. “The event is blossom beyond academics, Merrick schools an important reminder of Hocevar explained. fostering positive mental “It’s a unique opportunity for the health with the support we find within families and our students in our com- each other.” munity,” Hocevar said. “It’s not necesA Mindfulness Retreat for students sarily something every school district is and families in kindergarten through doing. I definitely think there is a much third grade is scheduled for Feb. 8. For greater focus on social emotional well- more, visit NMerrickSchools.org.

Students and their families gathered in north merrick to take part in mental health-themed activities at the mindfulness retreat on Jan. 11.

he event is an important reminder of fostering positive mental health with the support we find within each other.

Mike Monahan/Herald photos

emma, a sixth-grader, with her brother, drew, a fourth-grader, created ‘snow dough’ to improve concentration and reduce distractions.

Children crafted colorful pinwheels at the mindfulness retreat. A NoNprofit orgANizAtioN iN NAssAu CouNty is seekiNg

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the projeCt iNCludes: Fabrication and installation of perimeter security fencing. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at grantBids2024@gmail.com

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Bids will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. on February 1, 2024, and work is to commence by March 1, 2024 and be completed by June 30, 2024.

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All interested firms will be required to sign for the proposal documents and provide primary contact, telephone, fax and email address. MWBE businesses are encouraged to bid.

Apply now to be part of the heartbeat of local stories! Send resumes to Deputy Editor Jeffrey Bessen, jbessen@liherald.com

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STEPPING OUT

Country Stew

Potato Lasagna

Turkey Green Bean Chili

in the kitchen Bring out those chef skills on a wintry weekend

By Karen Bloom

These winter days, as the wind howls around us, are a reminder that home is sometimes the best place to be. So settle in for some comfy nesting, and find inspiration in the kitchen. Then gather everyone ‘round for conversation and a great meal. Keep warm with hearty dishes that satisfy appetites and comfort food cravings. By using natural ingredients and relying on veggies and lean proteins, you can create many tempting meals that are tasty and healthful. The potato, for example, can be used as a starting point for something creative. From russets to reds, fingerlings to purples, the hearty potato comes in many beautiful varieties that add color and texture to beloved comfort dishes. Try these recipes for inspiration.

Country Stew

• 5 pounds bone-in short ribs, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup vegetable oil • 2 cups water • 1 1/3 cups Zinfandel wine • 1 medium onion, chopped • 1 clove garlic, minced • 2 teaspoons salt • 1/4 teaspoon pepper • 2 beef bouillon cubes • 6 large potatoes, washed, peeled and quartered • 1/2 pound small fresh mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed • 1 package (10 ounces) frozen whole green beans • 1 can (16 ounces) peeled whole tomatoes, undrained Dredge ribs in flour to coat; reserve leftover flour. Heat oil in 8-quart Dutch oven on moderate heat. Add half of ribs and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove ribs. Repeat instructions for remaining ribs. Stir in the reserved flour. While stirring, add 1 cup water and wine and stir until thickened. Return ribs to the pan. Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper and bouillon and bring to a boil. Cover and lower heat to simmer for 1 hour, or until ribs are tender. Remove ribs with slotted spoon and cover with foil to keep warm. Add potatoes, mushrooms and beans. Simmer 20 to 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add ribs and tomatoes with liquid, and heat through. Use slotted spoon to remove meat and vegetables to large serving platter. Remove gravy to serving container and serve with ribs. Yield: 6 servings.

Potato Lasagna

• 2 links Italian turkey sausage (3 1/2 ounces each) • 1 1/2 cups chopped onion

• 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese • 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 egg white • 2 cups marinara sauce, divided • 1 1/4 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced, divided • 1 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Remove sausage from casing and crumble into medium skillet with onion. Cook for 10 minutes or until both are browned, breaking up sausage with back of spoon. Stir together ricotta, basil, garlic powder and egg white in small bowl. Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce in bottom of 9-inch square baking dish. Place 1/3 of the potatoes in the bottom of the dish, forming solid layer with no gaps. Drop 1/2 ricotta mixture in spoonfuls over top and spread out just a little. Sprinkle with 1/3 of mozzarella and 1/2 sausage mixture. Add 1/2 cup more sauce then repeat potato, cheese and meat layers. Top with last layer of potatoes, remaining sauce and mozzarella. Cover with plastic wrap and make small slit to vent. Microwave on high for 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Yield: 4 servings.

Turkey Green Bean Chili with Cheesy Corn Fritters

• 1 pound ground turkey breast • 1 cup chopped onion • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 2 (14.5 oz. each) cans Chili Style Diced Tomatoes, undrained • 1 cup water • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin • Cut green beans Corn Fritters • 1 (8.5 oz.) package corn muffin mix • 1 large egg, beaten • 2/3 cup milk • 1 cup whole kernel corn, canned or frozen • 1/3 cup shredded pepper jack cheese • 2 tablespoon vegetable oil Cook turkey, onion, bell pepper and garlic over medium heat in a large pot for 8 to 10 minutes or until meat is brown and vegetables are tender; drain. Stir in tomatoes, water and cumin. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in green beans. Serve with Cheesy Corn Fritters. For corn fritters, combine muffin mix, egg, milk, corn and cheese in a large bowl. Heat oil in a very large skillet over medium heat. For each fritter, pour about 3 tablespoons of batter into hot skillet. Cook 4 minutes or until golden brown, turning once. Keep cooked fritters warm in a 200 F oven while cooking the remaining batches.

One of those rare talents who translates easily from the stage to television and the big screen, Tom Papa is now doing his ‘thing’ on his ‘Good Stuff’ tour. With more than 20 years on the stand-up circuit, Papa is clearly one of the top comedic voices around. In addition to his mastery of the stage, he’s found success in a variety of creative pursuits, including as an actor and host in film and television, contributing writer for The New Yorker, author of three books, and popular podcast and radio host, among other endeavours. Papa has five highly rated stand-up specials to his credit, including his most recent Netflix special, ‘What A Day,’ filmed at the iconic Wilbur Theatre in Boston His highly-rated podcast, ‘Breaking Bread with Tom Papa,’ features Papa and his guest eating, drinking, and engaging in revealing and funny conversations. When he’s not on the road, Papa lives in Los Angeles with his family, where he spends most of his time writing and baking bread. Saturday, Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. $59.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Puppy Pals Live Madison Theatre goes to the dogs with Puppy Pals Live. From shelters to showbiz, the canine cast of mostly rescue dogs will have everyone smiling at their hilarious antics. As seen on NBC’s ‘America’s Got Talent,’ Puppy Pals is an over-the-top tale of what can happen when humans and animals come together in kindness, comedy, compassion and cooperation. These pooches, guided by their human handlers, perform challenging and comical tricks as they show everyone who’s really the boss. Full of surprises and laugh-out-loud canine comedy, all ages will enjoy seeing the fur fly. Watch these ‘performers’ do amazing tricks and athletic feats, big air stunts, backflips, climbing a ladder, jumping rope, even dance and comedy antics. The audience also has an opportunity to get involved, and maybe even step up on the stage jump in the action with man’s best friend. It’s a howling good time for all. Sunday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. $15$30. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or MadisonTheatreNY.org.

MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

Tom Papa

Your Neighborhood

On exhibit

Art talk

THE Jan.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra The renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra visits Long Island on its 2024 tour, with soloist Isata Kanneh-Mason. The orchestra’s new music director Vasily Petrenko conducts, on the Tilles Center stage, Friday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m. As a respected cultural ambassador, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra enjoys a busy schedule of international touring, performing in the world’s great concert halls and prestigious international festivals. They are recognized as being the UK’s most in-demand orchestra and count passion, versatility and uncompromising artistic standards as hallmarks and are celebrated as one the world’s most open-minded, forward-thinking and accessible symphony orchestras. In great demand internationally as a soloist and chamber musician, Kanneh-Mason was an ECHO Rising Star in 2021-2022, performing in many of Europe’s finest halls and is also the recipient of the coveted Leonard Bernstein Award and an Opus Klassik award for best young artist. Her debut album on Decca Classics, “Romance — the Piano Music of Clara Schumann,” drew popular and critical acclaim, entering the UK classical charts at No. 1. The program includes Debussy’s “Danse, L. 69” (orch. Ravel), Prokofiev’s “Piano Concerto No. 3” and Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade.” Tickets are start at$45; available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Our Gilded Age,” examines the appearances and the realities of an era that mirrors our own in many ways. Like the nation’s economy, American art and literature flourished during the Gilded Age. The art of John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Louis Comfort Tiffany and others adorned palatial residences designed by Stanford White and Ogden Codman Jr., architect of the museum’s own quintessential Gilded Age mansion. Drawing heavily upon the local literary history of Long Island, including William Cullen Bryant, Mark Twain (who named the Gilded Age), Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton and others, the exhibition will include paintings, fashion, decorative arts including period silver and china, photographs, manuscripts, Guardians of the Galaxy first editions and other historic memorabilia. Rock 102 Show The “Upstairs, Downstairs” Students from School of Rock in approach to the life of a Rockville Centre, perform, Saturday, country house brings to life not Jan. 20, 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m., at only the storied conspicuous The Showplace. Kids ages 10-13 consumption for which the present music from the Guardians Gilded Age was infamous, but movies, which heavily feature ‘70s also the real lives of these many music from Heart, Fleetwood Mac, individuals who maintained Cheap Trick, Beastie Boys, Redbone, the palatial estates where Jackson 5, and more. The show that lifestyle was enjoyed. is preceded by Rock 101 playing On view through March 10. Classic Rock Rewind at 9 a.m. Free Nassau County Museum of admission. 222 Petit Ave., Bellmore. Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn For more information, call (516) 234- Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or 7625 or visit SchoolOfRock.com. NassauMuseum.org. Join Franklin Hill Perrell, curator of Nassau County Museum of Art’s “Our Gilded Age,” for his talk “Art and Decorative Art Styles of the Gilded Age,” Sunday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. He’ll discuss a selection of works on view through the lens of the era’s changing styles and art movements including, grand tradition portraiture (in the spirit of Sir Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough) French Salon style, Impressionism, Realism/Social Realism, Romanticism; and in the decorative arts, and Renaissance Revival Style vs. Art Nouveau. Artists examined include John Singer Sargent, William Merritt Chase, Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt and Louis Comfort Tiffany. Limited seating; advance registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

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‘Parallel Perspectives’ View Molloy University Art Gallery’s current exhibition, a duo exhibit displaying artwork of noted Long Island artists Holly Gordon and Ward Hooper. Various complementary paintings and prints are on view. Upon meeting, it became obvious that both Gordon and Hooper were deeply inspired by Long Island’s fascinating environment and natural beauty. Together, they toured the island and captured the same places, each interpreting the scenes in front of them through their distinctive artistic styles. Their creations not only influence one another but also blend unique aesthetics in their collaborative artistic journey. Gordon and Hooper’s partnership yielded numerous accomplishments, one of which was the publication of their book “Parallel Perspectives: The Brush/Lens Collaboration.” Through Feb. 16. Kellenberg Gallery, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Call (516) 323-3196 or email artgallery@molloy.edu for more.

Afternoon of laughs

See some winter birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for another in its series of bird walks, at Mill Pond Park, in Wantagh, Sunday, Jan. 21, starting at 9 a.m. The park is on the north side of Merrick Road, 4 blocks west of Wantagh State Parkway. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet at the gazebo. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit SSAudubon.org.

Plaza Theatrical hosts a new edition of the 50+ Comedy Tour, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2:30 p.m. Enjoy hilarious laughter and outrageous fun featuring some of the best comedians working today with one thing in common — they’re all over age 50. Chase away winter blues with sidesplitting comedy from a lineup of top comedians on the stand-up circuit, at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre. 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $30, $25 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Bingo at Ohav Shalom Congregation Ohav Shalom hosts Bingo games every other Sunday. All are welcome. 145 S. Merrick Ave., Merrick. Visit Ohav. org/bingo for upcoming dates. For more information, contact (866) 222-1920.

ERALD HHERALD

Breastfeeding Support Group Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.

Merrick Chamber of Commerce 89th Installation Dinner Attend the Chamber’s Installation Dinner, Thursday Jan. 25, 6:3010 p.m., at Mio Posto, honoring Merrick’s Man & Woman of the Year as well as Merrick’s Merchant & Professional of the Year. $95/person or $950/10 person table. 16 Merrick Ave, Merrick. Contact Christine Mooney at info@merrickchamber.org for more information. Register at Register at MerrickChamberny. chambermaster.com/ eventregistration/register/639.

Bellmore-Merrick STEAM Expo Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District hosts the inaugural STEAM Expo, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 5:30 p.m., at Merrick Avenue Middle School. The Expo gives sixth-graders in elementary schools in Bellmore, North Bellmore, Merrick and North Merrick elementary schools exposure to STEAM activities that await them when they entered the central district in either Merrick Avenue or Grand Avenue Middle Schools. Contact Danielle Caliendo at (516) 992-1342 or Rob Soel at (516) 992-1444 for more information.

ACT Review Workshop

Having an event?

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

Students can prepare for the new ACT in two sessions at Merrick Library, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2-4:30 p.m. Calculator required. With a practice test in the first session with tips and strategies for further study in the second. Registration required. 2279 Merrick Ave. Register at MerrickLibrary.org or call (516) 377 6112.

VOTING STARTS SOON! SUPPORT YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES IN THE OFFICIAL COMMUNITY’S CHOICE AWARDS

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2022 2023

The program polls the local community to select the best businesses and organizations in the area. Learn more about the program and participate by visiting the website below.

VOTING PERIOD: JAN 4 - FEB 4

VISIT LICHOICEAWARDS.COM TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!

YOU COULD WIN $500! OFFICIAL RULES: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER. To vote and be eligible for the $500 prize, at least 25 categories must be filled in. $500 prize is a Gift Card. For complete official rules go to: LICHOICEAWARDS.com.

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MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

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January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

LMER1 0118

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. MARGARET RICE, et al, Defts. Index #6006962023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered December 6, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 13, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 62, Block 4, Lots 70-71, 269 Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. MARK RICCIARDI, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #101033 144219 LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU INDEX # 609165/2022 FILED: 7/13/2022 SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial based on the location of the mortgaged premises in this action. Plaintiff’s principal place of business c/o Celink, 3900 Capital City Boulevard, Lansing, Michigan 48906. FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, against MOLLY BLUNT RIZZATI AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO KRISTINE RIZZATI; JEANNINE RIZZATI A/K/A JEANNINE BALNIS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO KRISTINE RIZZATI; DENNIS RIZZATI AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO KRISTINE RIZZATI; JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DISTRIBUTEES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF THE ESTATE OF KRISTINE RIZZATI, WHO WAS BORN IN 1952 AND DIED ON MAY 8, 2022, A RESIDENT OF NASSAU COUNTY, WHOSE LAST KNOWN ADDRESS WAS 1586 MAEDER AVENUE, MERRICK, NEW YORK 11566, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF; FEDERAL HOUSING COMMISSIONER, PORTFOLIO RECOVERY ASSOCIATES LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF

TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; “JOHN DOE #1” to “JOHN DOE #10,” the last 10 names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the complaint, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the plaintiff’s attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, Attorneys for Plaintiff, One Huntington Quadrangle, Suite 4N25, Melville, NY 11747. (631) 812-4084 (855) 845-2584 facsimile. File # 22-300951. HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE

Christopher LaMagna makes otices 130-mile trek, for the LICC

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or visit the Department`s website at www.dfs.ny.gov RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. You have the right to stay in your home during the foreclosure process. You are not required to leave your home unless and until your property is sold at auction pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale. Regardless of whether you choose to remain in your home, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY and pay property taxes in accordance with state and local law. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner`s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE 144134

To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

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 Old Town Hall,

350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 1/24/2024 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: --------------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 43/24. MERRICK Michele Sepe, Variance, side yard, maintain garage attached to dwelling., W/s Bellmore Ave., 270’ S/o Darwin Dr., a/k/a 2022 Bellmore Ave. N.C.P.C. Local determination. RE-ADVERTISEMENT: 11:00 A.M. 581/23. 582/23. MERRICK Jason Mastronardi, Special exception to maintain accessory structure (shed) higher and larger than permitted, exceeds horizontal maximum on both sides with less than required rear and side yard setbacks; Variance, front yard setback on Charles St., maintain wood deck with pergola attached to dwelling., N/E cor. Montauk Ave. & Charles St., a/k/a 2659 Montauk Ave. N.C.P.C. Local determination. 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 a t https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 144286

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, V. NORA SALVAGNI AS ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE ESTATE OF DANIEL SALVAGNI, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated October 10, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION is the Plaintiff and NORA SALVAGNI AS ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE ESTATE OF DANIEL SALVAGNI, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the

By JORDAN VALLONE

jvallone@liherald.com

Ultramarathoner Christopher LaMagna once again took a journey, by foot, that many wouldn’t dare try. Last Saturday, he ran from Montauk to Manhattan — a nearly 130-mile trek — to raise money for the Long Island Crisis Center. LaMagna, 31, turned to running during the pandemic, as a way to alleviate stress and anxiety in a challenging time. “I started running a block, walking a block — I had no stamina,” he told the Herald. “I wanted to test myself physically and mentally — your body can take a lot if you’re able to tackle the mental process. Once you conquer that wall, you can just keep going forward.” The Queens native now lives in West Islip, and is the executive chef at the Babylon Mercantile, a cooking school and shop in Babylon. This year marks the third time LaMagna has completed the run for the crisis center. An ultramarathon is any running race longer than a traditional marathon, which is 26.2 miles. LaMagna, challenged by a friend who told him he “couldn’t run longer than 10 miles,” decided to just keep adding miles onto training runs — and suddenly he found himself completing two marathons a week. When he started running, he didn’t do so competitively, but he has taken part in races more recently. Last month he competed in the 2023 Devil Dog Ultras, a 100miler in Virginia, and finished third out of 44 runners. LaMagna said he decided to run for a good cause, and donate the funds to the crisis center, because he could tell it was the type of agency that would use the money effectively. “For me, if I’m going to raise money for awareness, I’d rather give it to a place that needs it,” he said. “If you walk into the (crisis center), you can tell that if I raise money for them, they’ll use the money for whatever it is they offer. I’d rather see the money used well — every dollar counts, every mile counts. I would like it to go to the right place.” The crisis center serves the needs of residents in Nassau and Suffolk counties, offering 24-hour hotlines manned by highly trained volunteers, among many other services. It also operates PFY, a subsidiary agency that supports the LGBTQ

population of Long Island and Queens. LaMagna’s relationship with the crisis center developed almost on a whim, Tawni Engel, the center’s associate executive director, explained. “He found us online, and honestly, just wanted to do this to benefit a local agency that is a bit grass-roots,” Engel said. “He really liked what we did, and we’ve just developed a relationship with him over the last couple of years since he started doing this, and he wants to continue that. We really work to support him doing this.” And his efforts to raise money over the last few years have been so extensive that the crisis center recognized LaMagna as its 2022 Person of the Year. LaMagna began last weekend’s run in Montauk at 4 a.m. on Saturday, and ran straight through to Central Park in Manhattan, ending at a landscaped section known as Strawberry Fields. Each year he invites people to join him on the run, for a few miles or a bit longer. There are aid stations set up along the way, most of them between five and 10 miles apart. LaMagna tracked his steps on the LiveTracker app, making it easy for people to spot him and cheer him on. He does eat solid food from time to time while on long runs, like oranges and grain bars, but what he consumes toward the end of his runs might surprise the nutritionally minded. “Towards the end, I just like to drink Coca-Cola,” he said. “The sugar, the caffeine — it keeps me up. I can’t drink it all year round, but when I race, I know I’ll burn the calories. I might as well enjoy it.” He completed his run on Saturday with a time of 22 hours, 19 minutes, 1 second — 11 minutes faster than last year, he said. He crossed the “finish line” at Strawberry Fields at 2:19 a.m. on Sunday. His journey is about pushing himself, LaMagna said, and finding solace in something he may have never thought was possible. “It’s hard every day — it’s still hard for me,” he said. “There’s days where I want to quit and stop, but I keep going, and I think that gives me more reason to live. I think if anybody’s going to grab anything out of this, it would be to choose the hardest thing — the most challenging thing that you don’t want to do. For more, visit LongIslandCrisisCenter.org.

Public Notices

undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 20, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 1841 GARDENIA AVE, MERRICK A/K/A NORTH MERRICK, NY 11566: Section 55, Block 515, Lot

37: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT NORTH MERRICK, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 009706/2012. Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq. - Referee.

Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO

CHANGE DAY ACCORDANCE COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 144347

OF IN WITH

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232

H1 01/18

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Budget Analyst wanted by 3W Auto AcEDITOR/REPORTER cessory Inc. in Oceanside NY. Must have a EXPERIENCED DOG WALKER: 5 Part Time & Full Time. The award-winbachelor's degree in Finance or a closely Days/ Week. Star ting 7:30am. $20/ ning Herald Community Newspapers related field such as Business, Accounting. Walk. N. Merrick. Call 917-319-2202 group, covering Nassau County's North Duties: analyze accounting records and and South Shores with hard-hitting news sales data, make estimations and forestories and gracefully written features, casts, and prepare periodic budget reports; MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP seeks a motivated, energetic and creaperform cost-benefit analysis; compare Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE opentive editor/reporter to join our dynamic funding with the anticipated cost of each ings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailDRIVING• INSTRUCTOR 5th_floor • Clients • m-Clients 47513 Malverne (and awesome) team! This education project and thereby maintain expenditure • Malverne room/warehouse helper in Garden City. and general assignment reporting posi3.125x 3" budget • The Herald • p2 Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean control; ensure execution of the We are a busy print shop looking for motition offers a unique experience to learn plans by overseeing and supervising apDriving Record Required, vated and reliable individuals to assist in from some of the best in the business. provals and disapprovals of proposed exWill Train. Retirees Welcome! various duties in the shop. Forklift experiH i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave penditures; assist in the development and ence is a plus and heavy lifting is required. $20 $25/ Hour launched their careers with us have maintenance of standard company policy Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary gone on to The New York Times, NewsBell Auto School and procedures documentation for budgetRanges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per week, Newsday, the New York Daily ing and forecasting; examine budgets pro516-365-5778 hour. News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC jections and actual expenses; review the Email: info@bellautoschool.com Email resumes or contact info to News and Daily Mail, among many • Malverne 5th_floor • The Clients • m-Clients • 47513 Malverne company operating performance and reothers. We look for3.125x excellent writers 3" •who The Herald careers@liherald.com • p1 vise and improve budget scheme periodiare eager to learn, enhance their skills, cally. Yearly Salar y will be $71240 to DRIVING INSTRUCTORS Why Not Print and become well-established and re$80000. Mail Resume to 3W Auto Accesspected journalists in our industry. SalaWANTED sory Inc., Attn: Qi Zhou, 3401 Lawson ry range is from $20K to $45K Blvd, Oceanside, NY 11572. Will Certify And Train To apply: Send a brief summary in the HS Diploma form of a cover letter describing your ca• Eco friendly facility • Environmentally reer goals and what strengths you can NYS License Clean 3 Years choose safe soy based inks bring to our newsroom, along with a re• Recycled paper $20 - $25/ Hour • Help reduce the sume and three writing samples to carbon footprint Printing Services mhinman@liherald.com Call 516-731-3000 Call Lou today at 516-569-4000 ext 223

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ext 200

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Hours: 15-27 hours per week Salary: $16 - $19 per hour

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OFFICE PERSON FT: Mon-Fri. Input Orders, Computer Skills. Wholesaler. Warehouse Setting. Island Par k. Star ting $18/Hour. Email Resume: appcoem@gmail.com 516-608-9200 Eric

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MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

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MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

Employment

HERALD

H2 01/18

Merrick Woods

HOME Of tHE WEEK January 18, 2024 — HERALD

Prestigious One of A Kind

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

xperience the epitome of luxury living in this stunning 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath Merrick Woods residence. Nestled in a sought-after, tree-lined area, the exterior stone facade and covered porch exude curb appeal. Inside, a 2-story grand entrance welcomes you to an open floor plan with gleaming hardwood floors, a family room, and a stylish kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a massive island. The main floor also features a powder room, formal living and dining areas, perfect for entertaining. Upstairs, discover 4 spacious bedrooms, including an oversized primary suite with custom closets and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. The finished basement offers extra space, while the fenced backyard boasts a new pool and spa. With modern amenities and a prime location near transportation, schools, and more. Asking $1,349,000

HEWLETT Bay PaRK

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HEWLETT

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REAL ESTATE Open Houses CEDARHURST BA, 332B Peninsula Blvd, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2 . 5 B t h C o o p Tow n h o u s e. L R , D R , Gran/Wood Kit w/ Stainless Steel Appl. Trex Deck Off LR.Primary Ste Features Updtd Bth & WIC. Att Gar Plus 1 Pkg Spot incl in Maintenance. W/D in Unit.Pull Down Attic.SD#15. Convenient to Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship...$449,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

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A. Not much, except decide whether you want a ridiculous-looking room with a jog in the wall or want to spend the money and time to go through the zoning variance process. When I see cases like this, I understand the intent of the law, but not the “spirit” of the law. The intent is to prevent the construction of buildings too close to a properonte eeper ty line, based on historical catastrophes such as the London fire and the Chicago fire, both of which saw hundreds of lives lost and tens of thousands of buildings destroyed, mainly because of their closeness to one another and their ability to burn easily. We live in a modern age in which materials have been tested, analyzed, certified and regulated to limit flame spread, and communities have been set up with strict guidelines to leave spaces between buildings for safety and appearance. But knowing, or not remembering, this, communities may invoke the strictness of the law like a stern punishment, or look at the separate conditions and merits of each case, deciding that your straight wall versus a jogged wall isn’t going to hurt anyone and, being located on the side or behind your house, isn’t going to detract from the character of the community. Some building departments have been given the flexibility to make these decisions, to avoid throwing the baby out with the bathwater, and have the authority to give approval for minor issues. Some municipalities have even gone so far as to pass ordinances allowing the discretion of building departments to allow for the alignment of built structures, previously approved, on the first story. It makes sense not to put homeowners through an unnecessary hearing process, sometimes costing thousands of dollars and many months of delay, just so they can have a straight wall. Allowing alignment with a previously approved part of a building isn’t the same as having a flammable wall too close to a property line or another building. In the long run, a variance will be worth it. Otherwise the weird wall shift won’t be understood or be beneficial to you. Good luck!

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A zoning variance for a bigger den?

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hile I truly appreciated every moment of my 28 years in Congress, I’ve found that a real benefit of being retired is that I have more time to think about where I’ve been and how I got there. Don’t get me wrong. I’m still keeping myself busy in a number of areas, including writing for the Heralds. But there’s no longer the constant rush to be somewhere or get something done. It took me at least a month or so to realize that when I woke up in the morning, I could go back to sleep if I wanted pETER to. I didn’t have to catch a plane to KinG Washington or be in my district office in Massapequa Park for an earlymorning constituent meeting. Some friends suggested early on that I write about my experiences in Congress and what I witnessed — the historic, the exhilarating and the tragic. I gave it some thought, but decided to let my brain settle for a while before trying to make sense of what I had seen and whom I had met. But the more I thought

about it, the more I realized that in order to understand where I had been, I had to look back on how I got there, and how those earlier experiences influenced how I approached and dealt with the challenges I faced and the people I encountered. Mine is no rags-toriches tale. But it was an improbable journey that took me from the blue-collar, working-class neighborhoods of Sunnyside and St. Albans, Queens, to the halls of Congress and Oval Office meetings at the White House. From loading freight cars at the Railway Express Terminal on Manhattan’s West Side to flying on Air Force One with three presidents. From grammar school classrooms crammed with 70 kids to Notre Dame Law School. I went from working in a law firm on Vesey Street, in Lower Manhattan, across the street from where the World Trade Center twin towers were being built, to being at ground zero with President Bush days after the Sept. 11 attacks, as those still-smoldering towers lay in ruins, a burial site for almost 3,000 innocent people. From traversing the minefields of Nassau County and

New York politics to dealing with world statesmen and dictators. From listening to my Irish immigrant grandmother describe the Irish struggle against British rule, in which her brother was imprisoned, to working with President Bill Clinton and British Prime Minister Tony Blair on the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which brought that 800-year struggle to an end. From being an altar boy in Queens to leading the American congressional delegation to the installation of Pope Benedict in Vatican City. Early last year, I decided it was time to start writing. Attempting to describe the improbability of this journey that took me so far from where I began, and was neither planned nor predetermined, prompted me to title my proposed memoir “The Road to God Knows Where,” from the Irish rebel song “On the One Road.” Now I’m about 60,000 words into it. Ironically, considering Israel’s current war for survival, the chapter I’m just completing focuses on being in Jerusalem as part of a congressional delegation in August 1993, when Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin informed us that Isra-

’m 60,000 words into a biography with no ending in sight, but an appropriate title.

el had reached a historic agreement with Yasir Arafat and the Palestine Liberation Organization, which led weeks later to Rabin’s famous handshake with Arafat on the White House lawn, orchestrated by Clinton, creating the mood and belief that peace was inevitable. Unfortunately, of course, the chapter will conclude with Rabin’s tragic assassination just two years later. As I write more, the easier the words seem to flow. To make real progress, though, I’ll have to block out time for concentrated writing instead of just writing spasmodically when time allows. I also want to make sure that I do justice not only to the events I’ve lived through and witnessed, but, more important, the people who have been such an important part of my journey. Not just the world leaders, but also those close to me. My mother, father, brother and sister. My wife, Rosemary, our son, Sean, our daughter, Erin, and our two grandchildren. Also, the close friends who urged me to write and continue to encourage me. As to where this will lead? Only God knows where. Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Hochul wins a round on the Albany battlefield

n this world, when you are presented with an opportunity to advance in some field, you often only get one chance. But when it comes to politics and you’re the governor of New York, you get four chances to succeed at the job. Last week, Gov. Kathy Hochul got her second chance to present her blueprint for the future, and she succeeded in winning over many of the state’s skeptics. At the outset of her State of the State address, Hochul made it clear to the 212 members of the Legislature that all of the federal JERRY Covid money had been spent, and if KREMER they had any plans to spend billions more of it, the cupboard was bare. Despite her warnings, there is no doubt that she will be bombarded by the Legislature with multiple requests for money that the state doesn’t have. Hochul made numerous proposals, but I’ll try to single out a few that are worth discussing. Currently, there is a

great deal of discussion about the pros and cons of artificial intelligence, but few organizations are doing in-depth research into its best uses. The governor has proposed a first-in-the-nation $275 million consortium that aims to leverage public and private-sector research into this very complex subject. Over the years, New York state has spent billions on economic development, but there have been few major success stories for any governor to brag about. Thanks to a Biden administration program, the state is getting a $5 billion grant that will be used for a major chip manufacturing plant in central New York, which will provide 10,000 jobs, and possibly more. The state will help advance that program, which may attract other job opportunities. One of the governor’s priorities that ran into heated opposition last year was her housing program. She had suggested that local zoning be overridden, and that thousands of units of new housing be built without community input. The proposal drew heated opposition from elected officials, and Hochul wisely

dropped the suburban portion of the plan. This time around, she focused on incentives for New York City housing, which is more likely to generate support. This past year, there was a lot of discussion of the issue of New Yorkers leaving the state for other places to live. There’s no doubt that high taxes have driven quite a few people to Florida and Texas, which have no income tax. But Hochul discussed a new state survey that shows that many New Yorkers are moving to Connecticut and New Jersey as well, where they can find affordable housing. That applies especially to places like Long Island, where many young people can’t afford to live. It’s no secret that New York, like many other states, has failed to provide enough support services for people with emotional issues. This is especially true for our young people who suffer from problems created by social media. The governor announced a number of programs that will offer more services for troubled adults and high school students. Many of the crimes we read

he governor used her State of the State address to detail the future as she sees it.

about involve people released from state or city institutions with no after-care. This headache goes back as far the early 1980s, and at least for now, there is a promise for more state action. In her address, Hochul took the opportunity to boast about the large amount of funding that has been devoted to the suburbs. Topping the list is last year’s $2 billion in education aid, which helped keep school taxes from rising in many districts. She also reminded her audience about the millions being spent on such roadways as the Long Island Expressway and others that have been repaved. All in all, Hochul did a great job in her second opportunity to meet the Albany establishment since she was elected in her own right. There is no doubt that the road ahead will be bumpy, because the Legislature has its own priorities. But the State of the State was her chance to shine, and she succeeded in enhancing her standing with taxpayers. Jerry Kremer was an Assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

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There’s no such thing as too many debates

he political debate. It’s a chance to see and hear from those who wish to represent us in government. But for the candidates seeking office, only they can truly appreciate the stress and pressure that comes with it. There have been some extraordinary debate moments. “I want you to know I will not make age an issue of this campaign,” President Ronald Reagan, who was 73 at the time, said in his 1984 debate with the younger Walter Mondale. “I am not going to exploit, for political purposes, my opponent’s youth and inexperience.” Then there was U.S. Sen. Lloyd Bentsen, running to become vice president in 1988, responding to his upper chamber colleague Dan Quayle, who had compared himself to John F. Kennedy. “I served with Jack Kennedy,” Bentsen told George H.W. Bush’s running mate. “I knew Jack Kennedy. Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine. Senator, you’re no Jack Kennedy.” Good or bad, memorable or forgotten, political debates are a vital thread knitting our democratic landscape together.

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Letters Tom Suozzi, American Jewry and Israel — the right man at the right time To the Editor: American Jewry and Israel, America’s closest ally, need friends and fierce advocates in Congress, especially now. Tom Suozzi is the right person at the right time. Tom’s demonstrated commitment to supporting Israel, his deep understanding of government and the U.S.-Israel relationship, and his fearlessness in defending the Jewish state — including against antisemites in his own party — is exactly what we need right now. All these essential characteristics were evident in Suozzi’s very first speech on the floor of Congress, seven years ago, on Jan. 5, 2017. The then newly elected congressman condemned the recently passed United Nations Resolution 2334, which declared that all of Israel’s presence outside its pre-1967 borders was illegal, that Jewish control of the Kotel was illegal, that Jewish sovereignty in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City was illegal, and that Jewish juris-

They help voters get to know candidates and what they stand for. Debates force them to be held accountable for statements or positions they have taken. And they allow us to assess the candidates’ character, completely unfiltered. Most of all, debates show that we, as Americans, can disagree with one another, but do so in a civil way that leads to solutions rather than conflict. These forums are the very essence of listening to all sides of an issue, hearing how people stand, and then coming to our own conclusions — as well as deciding on the person we want to represent us in voicing our beliefs. In just a few weeks — on Feb. 13 — voters across the North Shore of Long Island and parts of Queens will elect a new member of Congress to replace disgraced former U.S. Rep. George Santos. The vote will cap a special election race between the former Democratic holder of Santos’ seat, Tom Suozzi, and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip. Suozzi is pushing for more debates, according to published reports. Pilip, however, fewer. At this point, there is just one debate scheduled between the two, and it hap-

pens mere days before actual Election Day. That means the thousands of people who chose to vote early will not have a chance to hear the two candidates debate the issues. Debates have perhaps never been more vital than in this race, just 15 months after voters elected Santos, a man they later discovered they knew nothing about. It is crucial that voters get to know Suozzi and Pilip, what their positions are and how they would represent their constituents. There’s no such thing as too many debates, at least not in this race. It’s great that both Suozzi and Pilip have been accessible to the media — both, for example, have agreed to individually sit down with the Herald to take questions from our reporters — but nothing compares to being on stage and taking your case straight to the people whose votes you want. We can’t have another George Santos situation. We urge Suozzi and Pilip to debate. Be civil. Share ideas. Disagree. And give all of us everything we need to make the most informed decision we can on Feb. 13.

opinions

he debt of developing countries is at “crisis” levels, the World Bank said recently. A story in The New York Times on Dec. 16 was headlined, “The Debt Problem is Enormous, and the System for Fixing It is Broken.” “The foundational ideology — later known as the ‘Washington Consensus’ — held that prosperity depended on unhindered trade, deregulation and the primacy of private investment,” the article explained. “Nearly 80 years later, the global financial archimeL tecture is outdated, dysfunctional GUrtov and unjust.” Indeed, the world is awash in government debt, led by the United States, Japan and China, which together account for about half the total. But great powers have many options for handling indebtedness. Small, economically weak countries do not. The Washington Consensus reflects American and European economic predominance — not just World Bank and International Monetary Fund leadership, but also the U.S. Treasury Department and the global network of financial centers that stretches from New York and Chicago to Frankfurt and Zur-

ich. Predominance means the ability to dictate terms of loans. Over many years, World Bank and IMF decisions have aimed to condition loans to poor and middle-income countries on their openness to private investment, free trade, and deregulation of state-run agencies — roads, railways, banks, key industries. Openness translates to opportunities for Western capital to penetrate developing-world economies, often resulting in the hollowing out, if not the elimination, of private and state-owned businesses. Large borrowers also face high interest rates. To ensure repayment, the World Bank and IMF preach austerity: Governments should slash social welfare programs to pay down their debt. Any family deeply in debt would understand the terrible choice facing those governments: Stay on good terms with the bankers by eliminating or reducing subsidies to the poor for food, health care, and fuel. Consequently, António Guterres, United Nations secretary general, said in the Times article: “Even the most fundamental goals on hunger and poverty have gone into reverse after decades of progress.” The global debt crisis isn’t a new problem, just one that is surging again.

As the Times explained, “Pounded by the Covid-19 pandemic, spiking food and energy prices related to the war in Ukraine, and higher interest rates, lowand middle-income countries are swimming in debt and facing slow growth.” Meanwhile, China has made billions of dollars in loans to poor countries that cannot possibly be repaid. China proclaims that its loans come without demands for austerity and with lower interest rates. But recipients may have to pay the loans back with access to ports and rail lines, extraction of mineral and other resources, use of Chinese labor, environmental damage, and adherence to Chinese policy views on, for example, human rights and Taiwan. The debt crisis is one symptom of a development crisis, in which far too many countries do not have the financial resources to support decent living conditions. Moreover, these countries are often the victims of rich countries’ behavior, as in the case of climate change. As one source pointed out, the richest 1 percent of the world’s population, 80 million people, account for about half of global carbon emissions, while the poorest 50 percent, 3.9 billion people, account for about 8 percent of carbon emissions. The typical solution to the debt prob-

ar too many countries don’t have the resources to support decent living conditions.

Letters diction over holy sites such as the Cave of Machpelah, in Hebron — where tradition holds that Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Rebekah and Leah are buried — was illegal. In that brief but impactful speech, Suozzi eviscerated the U.N. resolution’s wrongful notion that Jewish life in the eternal Jewish homeland was an obstacle to peace. Rather, as Tom stated that day, the obstacle to peace was “anti-Israel terrorism.” The fact that he chose to stand up for Israel on Day One of his congressional career is a testament to his genuine and heartfelt commitment. Of all the issues on which he campaigned; of all the issues that he and his supporters cared about; of all the governmental and political forces and pressures pushing and pulling him to make a statement about this or that, Suozzi devoted his first speech in that hallowed chamber to defending the safety and security of the Jewish state. He did so despite the fact that it was a prior Democratic administration that declined to veto the U.N. resolution, thus letting it reach the Security Council for a vote in the first place. This tells us that Tom will not back down, will not relent, and will not look the other way when Israel is unjustly singled out, maligned and attacked. Tom marshaled the evidence, and deployed his understanding of government

lem has been to give developing countries seats at the table where decisions are made. That might help if the major players, starting with the U.S., were ever persuaded to reduce their voting power. Even then, it is the loan conditions — the amount of money available, the high interest rates and terms of repayment — that would still depend on the good graces of the major financial institutions. And those institutions, to put it mildly, don’t believe in being charitable. The Times story failed to report on bottom-up approaches to development in the human interest. Giving aid or loan relief means dealing with governments that may be corrupt, excessively bureaucratic and incompetent, dominated by the military, and authoritarian — in any of these cases, giving low priority to human security. Channeling funds to non-governmental organizations with experience in promoting human development is far more likely to help than providing unworthy governments with debt relief. There are plenty of grass-roots development programs that work — for example, in microfinance. The real choice for international financial organizations is, do you want to bail out governments, or empower people? Mel Gurtov, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is professor emeritus of political science at Portland State University and blogs at In the Human Interest.

Framework by Fatima Lasso

and the U.S.-Israel relationship, to clearly demonstrate that he took the job seriously and would continue to deliver. We need a representative in Congress who believes in the fundamental right of the Jewish people to self-determination and security, and who has proven that he will show up prepared and able to work every lever of government to get results. Tom has the knowledge of how government works, the relationships on both sides of the aisle, and the understanding of our issues to get the job done. He has continued to be one of Israel and American Jewry’s fiercest advocates, fighting for unconditional aid for Iron Dome and David’s Sling, condemning antisemitic comments by Democratic colleagues like Ilhan Omar, passing bipartisan legislation to sanction the terrorist use of human shields, and even traveling to Israel as recently as December to support Israel and Jews throughout the world during this difficult time. Governing is hard. For American Jewry and America’s closest ally, Israel, Tom Suozzi is the right person at the right time, for the right place. That place is the United States Congress. RORY LANCMAN Great Neck Rory Lancman is a former member of the Assembly and the New York City Council.

La Mitad del Mundo, the Middle of the World monument - Quito, Ecuador

MERRICK HERALD — January 18, 2024

Global debt is beyond control

January 18, 2024 — MERRICK HERALD

Mothers looking for a hospital at which to give birth should consider the quality indicators used by U.S. News & World Report® to determine institutions deemed High Performing for Maternity care. Mount Sinai South Nassau is the only South Shore hospital to earn the rating of High Performing based on eight key measures: • Reduced C-section delivery rates • Low early elective delivery rates • Low overall unexpected newborn complication rates • Increased routine VBAC rates • Increased exclusive human milk feeding rates • Low episiotomy rates • Routine birthing-friendly practices • Transparency on racial/ethnic disparities If you want the best birthing experience for you and for your baby, look no further than Mount Sinai South Nassau. Learn more at southnassau.org/maternity, or call 877-SOUTH-NASSAU.

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Giving Birth? Look No Further than the South Shore’s Only High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care