The Merrick Herald is your local paper
There’s no place like Merrick — but you don’t need us to tell you that.
Whether you hail from north or south of Sunrise Highway, and pledge your allegiance to Calhoun, Mepham or Kennedy High School, Merrick is a place worth being immensely proud of.
It is full of kind people, an amazing fire department, wonderful restaurants, coffee shops and eateries, and pristine downtowns.
Pups, bourbon and brews
It was all about the dogs at a recent puppy adoption drive, hosted at Bourbon & Brews in Merrick, in collaboration with Heavenly Angels Animal Rescue. Luca and Ava Sangurima, 4 and 9, had a blast playing with dog, Petey. Story, photos, Page 10.
Copperman victim awarded $22 million First inquest hearing ends in a poignant decision
By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com
More than 100 women who claimed they were sexually abused by Stuart Copperman, a former pediatrician who owned and operated a Merrick practice, have long waited for answers. A poignant decision in a Mineola courtroom last Friday may set the tone for future proceedings.
On Aug. 25, a Nassau County Supreme Court judge awarded one of Copperman’s victims $5 million in punitive damages and $17 million in compensatory damages.
The plaintiff awarded the sum of money is just one of 104 women who brought a civil lawsuit against Copperman, made possible by the
New York State Child Victims Act (see box, Page 7) , signed into law by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in February 2019.
Copperman lost his medical license in 2000, after six women testified to the state Board of Professional Medical Conduct that he had molested them while they were patients in the medical practice he ran out of the basement of his Hewlett Avenue home. The lawsuit states that he abused his first victim in 1961, during his internship and residency, before he opened his practice in 1965.
The alleged victims estimate that over the course of 40 years, Copperman abused thousands of young girls from Merrick, Bellmore and
A historic community, people are willing to go miles to preserve some of the community’s oldest structures. Just down the road from the Merrick Library, there’s the Old Merrick Library — a preserved, little red building, that tells the tales of Merrick’s earliest settlers. Up the road, next to the North Merrick Public Library, there’s the Bedell Dairy Farm — a large property, reminiscent of Merrick’s fishing, farming and agricultural days.
Merokeans come together in times of need, because they want the best for not only themselves, but the people around them.
Tee off at the Merrick Golf Course or go for a walk at the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve. In Merrick, there’s something for everyone.
The Merrick Herald is your community newspaper. We are
there for you in the best of times and the worst of times — no matter what.
This week’s Merrick Herald is being mailed to every home, and includes a copy of our popular annual magazine, Living In Merrick. It’s filled with great information you can use throughout the year and it features the many acts of kindness that make Merrick such a great community.
If you’re not a Merrick Herald subscriber, we hope a look at this week’s paper will persuade you that you should be.
Each week, we cover the big issues, and you’ll find the local news that you can’t find anywhere else.
If you’re not currently receiving the Merrick Herald by mail each week, please help keep quality local journalism alive in your community by signing up for a free subscription.
See our subscription offer inside on Page 7, or find us online at LIHerald.com/free. You can also call (516) 569-4000, ext. 7.
If you’re already a Merrick Herald subscriber, thank you for your support. We hope you are pleased with our coverage.
Enjoy the paper, and thanks for reading!
Jordan Vallone, Editor
Meet your new elementary school teachers
Newcomers to the North Bellmore School District’s faculty got a warm welcome on Aug. 16 as they gathered in the Park Avenue Elementary School library for new teacher orientation.
There are 15 new full-time and parttime teachers joining the district this year. They represent multiple grade levels and subject areas, and collectively will be working across all five elementary schools. Among the new faculty are several grade-level teachers, two art educators and a pair of Prevention Department specialists.
New teacher orientation featured a review of the district’s mission and core values, an overview of instructional technology and welcoming remarks from administrators and the North Bellmore Teachers Association. During afternoon breakout sessions, the new teachers worked with administrators and instructional coaches based on their instructional area.
Tillie McNamara, the director of educational programs and staff development, said the goal of the orientation program is for new teachers to “feel a part of this amazing team” of educa-
tors. At orientation, they experience the collaborative spirit that exists in North Bellmore and learn how to use their strengths in the service of children.
“North Bellmore is a great place to
learn and grown and continue to move forward in your career,” McNamara said. “We want our teachers to have long, joyful journeys with us as they bring the district’s missions and core values to life for students.”
The North Bellmore School District held new teacher orientation on Aug. 16 at Park Avenue Elementary School in North Merrick. The new teacher orientation featured a review of the district’s mission and core values, an overview of instructional technology and welcoming remarks from administrators and the North Bellmore Teachers Association. The day helps new educators feel part of the ‘amazing’ North Bellmore team.
“We welcome our new faculty and staff to our family,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Janet Pollitt added. “We want to show them all that North Bellmore has to offer.”
New construction at the Chabad converts offices to classrooms
Facility expansion creates more space, and a welcoming environment for many students
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.comNew construction at the Chabad of Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh has converted offices into four brand new classrooms and a multipurpose room for children enrolled in its preschool, Hebrew school and summer camp programs.
The new educational facilities, located at Chabad’s Hewlett Avenue location in Merrick, will provide children with a safe and comfortable setting, where they can learn and engage in fun activities.
“We want the kids to feel as if they’re home,” Rabbi Shimon Kramer, who oversees the Chabad with his wife, Chanie, said.
R ABBi SHimon KRAmER Chabad directorAccording to Rabbi Kramer, most of the children who attend the center’s preschool spend more time awake in the classrooms than at home. Instead of making it an institution, the Chabad said it wants kids to feel as though they never left their house.
Development of the new rooms features small touches to create a welcoming environment. Rooms will have home furniture, such as couches, while entryway moldings to rooms have been rounded off to provide a smooth edge. These details, according to Rabbi Kramer, will mimic a safe home, rather than a school or office building.
“They learn through fun, they learn through play, and through having a good time,” the rabbi said.
Rabbi Kramer and his wife used to teach children in their own home, and parents enjoyed seeing their children learn in a wholesome setting. As they expanded to a bigger learning center, the Kramers wanted to make their learning facilities feel like an extension of their own house.
“We want every child to feel like they’re at home because they spend so many hours of their day here,” Chanie Kramer, who is also director of Chabad’s early learning center, said.
In addition to new classrooms, the Chabad will feature a new multipurpose space, which will focus on children’s motor skill by providing interactive activities such as pegboards and sensory walls.
Families interested in enrolling their children in Chabad’s programs were welcomed to an open house barbecue on Aug. 2. The event, which took place at the center’s outdoor playground, saw dozens of children from the center’s summer camp enjoy activities such as arts, crafts, soccer and a bounce house.
“It’s a great, warm, loving place, where there’s a lot of activities for the younger campers, as well as some of the
camp favorites that you would expect in a bigger camp, even though it’s a small camp,” head counselor Jessica Lerner said.
Classroom expansion was made possible through two successful fundraisers the Chabad hosted over the last two years. The first fundraiser, which occurred in December of 2021, raised more than $500,000, while the second event, last December, took in more than $450,000.
Gayle Benno, director of admissions and educational consultants for Chabad’s early learning center, said that everyone in the organization is excited to have extra space for children to learn and play.
“The community needed more spots for Jewish education,” Benno said.
According to Rabbi Kramer, a large demand exists to enroll students into the center’s programs, which have waiting lists that stretch into 2025. Expanding Chabad’s programs and doubling the size of its educational facilities should also help to enroll more students, according to Benno.
“I get anywhere between five and 10 inquiries about our school daily,” Benno said.
“The reason why we built this is because I didn’t want to turn kids away,” Rabbi Kramer said of the expansion. “I feel every kid deserves an education.”
Aside from providing a cozy learning environment, the Chabad said it is also important for the children to take great pride in their Jewish heritage.
“We want children to walk away feeling very proud to be a Jewish individual,” Benno said. “We certainly want them to leave with a feeling in their heart that they’re lucky and blessed to be born Jewish.”
We want the kids to feel as if they’re home.
My mother may soon be applying for Medicaid. How does this affect funeral arrangements?
The latest Medicaid regulations now permit individuals to set aside a portion of their assets in an irrevocable trust account in order to have funds for future funeral expenses.
When an individual approaches the time when Medicaid coverage seems likely, social workers generally advise families to look into this funeral pre-funding option.
Here’s how we can help:
• The Family will make an appointment with us to discuss just what we are to do when the death occurs.
• We discuss options and record their wishes not just about preferred funeral home services but cemetery, church, monument inscription, newspaper notices, etc. We inform the family of exactly what the funeral home and third party costs are at the present time.
• Funds to cover those expenses can then deposited in our FDIC insured PRE - PLAN Trust. The Trust pays sufficient interest to allow us to guaranty those future funeral home costs into the future.
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If we can help you with this important matter, call us and our knowledgeable staff will answer your questions. Moreover, there is no cost involved in establishing a PRE-PLAN Trust.
To dream the impossible reality
Some things are just impossible … and I don’t mean things like ending world hunger or achieving universal peace or harmony because those things are possible.
What I mean by “impossible things” is getting certain people to keep their personal space neat and orderly or getting others to keep their word or promise or secret.
So too, it seems impossible to get some folks to shut up or some folks to open up, just as, for a large portion of the population, it’s impossible to follow the straight and narrow path, or to just leave well enough alone.
On the list of impossibilities is seeing someone not immediately look for themselves in a stack of photos or getting everyone to place their cell phone on vibrate at funerals and movies.
than beautiful bride isn’t lovely.
It’s a truism that it’s impossible to “eat just one,” or to love the second time exactly as the first, or to make a big string from a little one.
It really is impossible to like everyone (though not to despise them) or to please everyone (though not impossible to try).
God knows it’s impossible to avoid criticism or being hurt for doing what’s right, but for some it’s impossible not to make the attempt.
Unreserved Judgment
Sure it’s impossible to see yourself with either your eyes (or your mind) closed, though for some it’s impossible to view themselves any other way.
It’s impossible to have it all, yet legions find it impossible not to covet or pursue it.
Ron Goldman
Naturally, it’s impossible not to smile or scratch when ordered not to, or to resist reveling in an enemy’s defeat (and sometimes, even a friend’s). It’s clearly impossible not to rubberneck or to avoid giving some hint that you know the joke’s punchline.
For all too many, it’s just impossible to tell the truth )or even recognize it) or to say, “thank you,” or to conceive that maybe, just maybe, somebody else is smarter or more deserving.
Truth be told, it’s impossible to live life and not make reference to the weather, injustice, ingratitude or the superiority of another time or place. It’s also impossible not to smile at a lovely child or to think even a less
It’s impossible for anyone not to err or falter even as, for some, it’s just as impossible to admit it.
Yet thankfully, out there in that impossible world, there are those for whom it’s impossible not to step forward and help.
For those few (and sometimes many) it’s impossible to lie or cower or frown. For them, it’s impossible not to greet the day (or a stranger) with optimism, just as it’s impossible for them not to insist that no thing is impossible and thus make the effort to resolve impossible situations and perform impossible tasks.
Indeed, these are the folks that make life possible, and it’s impossible, after honest reflection, not to recognize that not just admiring, but actually following their example is not, at all, impossible.
© 2023 Ron Goldman
Celebrating culture in Hempstead Town
The Town of Hempstead hosted an El Salvador Festival at Hempstead Town Hall this month. Thousands came out to join in the celebration with Town Supervisor Don Clavin and Town Clerk Kate Murray.
Keeping the environment clean
Colleen Bayer of Bellmore stopped by the Town of Hempstead’s E-Cycle and Shredding Program this month in Levittown, and met Supervisor Don Clavin. Things like television, computers, monitors and tablets could be dropped off, among many other items. For more on upcoming events, visit HempsteadNY.gov.
Book Review:
Healthy at 100 by John Robbins (Part Two)
Last week we looked at the four major reasons people live longer: diet, physical activity, culture or socialization and respect for the elderly.
Taking a deeper dive, the book cites a preeminent expert on aging, John W. Rowe, M.D., Chairman of the MacArthur Foundation Research Network on Successful Aging who explains: “The bottom line is very clear: with rare exceptions, only about 30 percent of physical aging can be blamed on genes...MacArthur Research provides very strong evidence that we are, in large part, responsible for our own old age.”
Take the example of longest lived people in the world — the Okinawans “When Okinawans move elsewhere and adopt the diets of their new locations, they get the same diseases at the same rates and die at the same ages, as the people whose customs they embrace. The life expectancy of Okinawans who move to Brazil, for example, drops seventeen years.”
“Diseases of affluence” — including diabetes, coronary heart diseases and many forms of cancer are all linked to animalbased diets. Foods that decrease cholesterol levels are soy products, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, peas and beans. “As a result of the vast amount of information gathered... the scientific evidence indicates that a diet based on plant foods with a minimal amount of food derived from animals as the ideal diet for human beings.” Since almost all the cells in your body continually regenerate, “steps you can take” provides a guide “so what you eat today literally becomes your body tomorrow.”
Next up are physical activities. The Vilcabamba have a saying, that “each of us has two doctors — the left leg and the right leg.” People become passive and then the less they move the harder it becomes to do so. However, “those who think they have no time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”
Courtesy Town of Hempstead Courtesy Town of HempsteadDecades later, a sign of justice for victims
the surrounding area. Copperman now lives in Boca Raton, Florida, in the private country club Boca West, and may also still own a home on Long Island.
According to court documents filed with the Nassau County clerk’s office on Jan. 6, Copperman did not submit any opposition papers in the case against him. The document reads, “Plaintiffs have submitted proof that the defaulting defendants were properly served. Defaulting defendants have failed to timely answer the complaint within the statutory period or otherwise appear and no request for an extension of time has been made.”
The Herald’s attempt to reach Copperman’s last known attorney was unsuccessful, and a case search of the New York Unified Court System website, NYCourts.gov, showed that Copperman was unrepresented.
The victims have been jointly represented by Philadelphia-based law firm, Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky, and the Ronkonkama-based firm Gruenberg Kelly Della, since 2021.
Because Copperman did not defend himself in the case, a legal inquest was deemed necessary in order for a judge to determine damages.
The first inquest hearing took place on Aug. 8 for the victim who was awarded $22 million last week. Documents from the hearing, filed with the county
clerk’s office on Aug. 25 and shared with the Herald by Kristin Gibbons Feden, a partner at one of the firms, Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky, state that the plaintiff was a 41-year-old woman who was a patient of Copperman’s. For approximately 18 years, according to the documents, the plaintiff was subject to several acts of abuse.
An expert witness, a psychotherapist, was present at the hearing.
“Although (the) plaintiff felt confusion by such examinations and that something was ‘off,’ she never fully appreciated that Copperman’s actions constituted abuse until she was older and no longer Copperman’s patient,” one document reads. “The effect of the abuse was traumatic. As testified by (the) plaintiff’s expert, it resulted in a number of psychological disorders, including eating disorders, dissociative identity disorder and self injury.
“Copperman’s abuse has robbed the plaintiff of a normal, healthy and happy life,” the document continues. “The court finds that the psychological scars resulting from the abuse are permanent.”
Gibbons Feden said that each plaintiff will be heard individually in future hearings with the judge. There are currently no set dates for future hearings.
“It’s a little undetermined as of now,” Gibbons Feden said. “We don’t have court orders — we have to file every -
Understanding the Child Victims Act
the Child Victims act extended the period in which criminal charges can be brought against alleged abusers from when a victim turns 23 to when he or she turns 28. the law also allows victims to pursue civil lawsuits any time before they turn 55. Lastly, it established a “revival” period, beginning in august 2019, when victims could file civil lawsuits that would have been barred under the prior statute of limitations. that window closed in august 2021. in that two-year period, 104 women who claimed they were abused by Stuart Copperman filed lawsuits against him and his medical practice, Stuart Copperman, m d
thing. I believe the judge is going to aim to hear it as soon and as expeditiously as possible.”
Speaking on the decision by the court to hear each victim individually, Gibbons Feden explained, “It’s not really a
class or mass tort (lawsuit). It really was only consolidated for purposes of recovery, if you will. Each plaintiff technically has their own set of damages. So he is hearing it one on one.”
The plaintiffs can testify orally or through written documents, with affidavits. Copperman has the right to appeal the decision of the court, Gibbons Feden said.
Getting last week’s plaintiff — and, potentially, future plaintiffs — the money they are awarded could be challenging, and it is too early to tell how that process will work, but Gibbons Feden said that the courts would do what they could to see that the victims are monetarily compensated.
“These women, robbed of their innocence as children, have waited long enough,” Gibbons Feden said in a new release from the victims’ legal team on Tuesday. “Today, the court not only listens but acts, awarding this first survivor $17 million in compensatory damages and an unequivocal $5 million more in punitive damages, a firm strike against the predator that dared to prey upon these courageous women when they were innocent children.”
“Copperman was not a kind, compassionate pediatrician — the public image he nurtured,” Mike Della, a lawyer, said. “He was a monster doing barbaric things on his examination table to these children, irreparably destroying many lives.”
HERALD SPORTS
Hofstra aims for another CAA Crown
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.comHofstra women’s soccer defied the odds last year to repeat as conference champions and will look for a far clearer postseason path this fall in the Coastal Athletic Association.
The Pride was in danger of missing the 2022 CAA tourney following a 2-1 defeat to Stony Brook in the regular-season finale but moments after the game learned they had earned the league’s final tournament spot when results in other matches went Hofstra’s way. Hofstra proceeded to take full advantage of its renewed life to win its fifth CAA title in six years as the eight seed starting by knocking out top-seeded Monmouth and culminating in a dramatic overtime win at Northeastern.
“Once you face the jaws of defeat, I think it’s easy to have a new lease of life,” said 18th-year Hofstra women’s soccer head coach Simon Riddiough, who has guided the Pride to seven CAA titles and nine NCAA Tournament appearances since taking over the program in 2006.
“To get that opportunity again was like a breath of fresh air and new impetus.”
Riddiough returns seven starters off last year’s 10-8-4 team that reached the NCAA Tournament for the sixth time in eight seasons. After a season-opening 2-1 loss at Albany, Hofstra rebounded in a major way with a 1-0 upset win at Big Ten power Rutgers on Aug. 20 on a late goal from junior midfielder Olivia Pearse on a counter attack in the 88th minute.
Pearse, a former standout at Seaford High School, has emerged as one of Hofstra’s most impactful players on both ends of the field. She netted two goals and two assists as a sophomore.
“She has come in fetter than I have ever seen her and with a new attitude,” said Riddiough of Pearse, who switched from the wide forward to fullback role last season. “She wears her heart on her sleeve and she leads by example.”
Hofstra returned last year’s leading scorer Dagny Run Petursdottir, who registered 19 points on seven goals and five assists as a freshman out of Iceland and was named to the Preseason All-CAA Honorable Mention team.
Another Iceland product, Thorhildur Thorhallsdottir, also shined as a first-year college player with three goals and two assists.
Sophomore midfielder/defender Wiktoria Fronc, a London native, also made her mark on Long Island from across the pond with seven assists to earn AllCAA Third Team and All-CAA and CAA All-Rookie Team honors.
While the Hofstra roster is global in nature featuring 10 international players from four countries to go along with 10 U.S. states, the team boasts many impactful local players led by Pearse and graduate student defender Cailey Welch, a former standout at North Shore High School. Freshman defender Jill Conlon, a two-time all county player from Calhoun High school in Merrick, could potentially see some minutes on the backline during her rookie college season on the college soccer pitch.
“She’s composed on the ball,” Riddiough said of Conlon. “She’s a wonderfully nice kid who cares and I’m assuming will work hard to get to where she needs to go.”
Graduate student starting goalie Skylar Kuzmich has missed the beginning of the season due to injury,
but Riddiough hopes to have her back during the heart of CAA play. Junior goalie Mackenzie Sullivan has stepped up in Kuzmich’s absence and recorded five seasons in the Rutgers victory.
Hofstra kicks off its home schedule this Sunday against Atlantic 10 oe Saint Joseph’s at 1 p.m. before beginning its quest for another CAA title on Sept. 10 when it hosts league newcomer Campbell at 1 p.m.
The Pride’s home schedule is highlighted by a CAA finals rematch against Northeastern on Oct. 1 at 1 p.m.
The Pride were picked to finish third in the CAA Women’s Soccer Preseason Poll behind Monmouth and Northeastern.
The top six finishers in the 13-team conference will earn spots to the CAA Tournament that commences on Oct. 26.
“If we stay healthy I think we can compete and beat anybody in the conference,” Riddiough said.
*must be present at drawing to win
PANEL
RAFFLE DRAWING AT 12:30PM SILVER
Rescue dogs, with ‘Bourbon & Brews’
Bourbon & Brews, a craft beer and bourbon bar on Merrick Avenue, has been giving back to the community since it opened its doors in August of 2019.
During the height of coronavirus pandemic, the bar — known for its food and atmosphere, and commitment to the community — hosted Fundraiser Saturdays, where 20 percent of the proceeds went on to benefit an organization in the area.
And since last year, it has also hosted charity comedy shows, with proceeds being donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“I think it’s important for anyone who’s in the position to give back to do so,” Bourbon & Brews’ owner, John Amaruso, said. “I owe it to the staff and the people around me.”
On Aug. 12, the eatery was charitable once again, but this time in a different way. It hosted an outdoor puppy adoption drive, with the rescue organization, Heavenly Angels Animal Rescue. 50 percent of all proceeds were donated to the rescue.
A foster-based animal rescue, with a P.O. Box in Ozone Park, Queens, Heavenly Angels is a registered nonprofit organization.
It takes in dogs who are evaluated, socialized and received training in their foster homes. All dogs that end up being adopted are spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations and microchipped.
Bourbon & Brews raised $700 for the rescue during the event, which included lots of pups hanging outside the restaurant. The event was cosponsored by Jones Beach Brewing Co.
For more on Bourbon & Brews, visit BourbonBrewBar.com and for more on the rescue, and how to adopt or foster a dog, visit HeavenlyAngelsAnimalRescue.org.
–Jordan ValloneD’Esposito settles in, but loves coming home
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
It’s been a fast eight months for Congressman Anthony D’Esposito into his first term as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. The former New York Police Department detective and longtime volunteer firefighter who would work his way to being elected a Hempstead town councilman is well known for commitment to being anywhere and everywhere in his community.
In fact, it’s like having someone who has their “boots to the ground,” as he might say.
Now, D’Esposito’s boots are in Washington, nearly 300 miles away from Long Island. But that doesn’t mean home isn’t on his mind. In fact, the congressman thinks about the part of Nassau County he represents a lot.
So, what’s the work-life balance been for the congressman?
“It’s early days into late nights,” D’Esposito said. “Whether it’s having committee hearings, markups for legislation, voting on the floor, having meetings with groups and organizations and concerns to deliver, it’s really a nonstop job.”
D’Esposito is the first Republican since Dan Frisa — who won the seat back in 1995 — to represent the congressional district. He defeated Laura Gillen in what had become a Long Island “red wave” last year, flipping the seat to the GOP after
Democratic congresswoman Kathleen Rice retired. Before her, Carolyn McCarthy kept the district blue.
The Island Park native takes pride in being involved in his community — an involvement he has since brought to Washington.
In his first month, D’Esposito joined three committees. With the House Committee on Homeland Security, he’s tasked with safeguarding national security from threats both foreign and domestic, The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure is tasked with overseeing the nation’s air, rail, road and transportation networks as well as the country’s infrastructure. And lastly, the House Committee on House Administration is tasked with operations of the congressional lower chamber, as well as federal elections and Capitol complex security.
But being a congressman is more than just Joining committees. D’Esposito recently hopped onto a long flight to Israel as part of a 20-person bipartisan congressional delegation formed by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Israel’s independence.
“It was a historic visit,” D’Esposito said.
Now, D’Esposito is committed with other members of Congress to work on continuing peace efforts in the Middle East, expanding on the Abraham Accords — which seeks to find peace among the three major Abrahamic religions of
Christianity, Islam and Judaism — as well as visits to Israel, or their government leaders coming to the United States.
Most recently, the spike in crime to fentanyl overdoses has pushed for the creation of a congressional task force aimed at combating Mexican cartels. The congressman — tapping into his former police experience — was named to the group to share his expertise.
Still, being so far away from home is not something D’Esposito looks forward to. But good communication helps, something the congressman praises his staff for maintaining, so he can remain in touch with the concerns, questions and needs of his constituents while the House is in session.
“We make ourselves very accessible on social media platforms and emails to ensure that we’re meeting all their needs,” D’Esposito said. “I’m usually on the first flight out right after our final vote. And as soon as I land, we’re heading into the district.”
That means meeting with local leaders, members of village boards, and even spending time working with Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
Now back on Long Island as part of an August break, D’Esposito has kept himself busy. In Wantagh, he joined the celebration of 40 years of the family-owned
Tim Baker/Herald file U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito has stayed busy since filling the seat previously occupied by U.S. Rep. Kathleen Rice.
up with local elected officials on the state and village level.
“It’s making sure that every inch of this district — whether it’s in the west closest to the city, or in the east in Seaford and Wantagh, or down along the Barrier Island or up in Garden City and everywhere in between — making sure that they understand that they have somebody who has their boots on the ground,” D’Eposito said, “their ears open, and want to be representing their communities as
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TREAT YOURSELF WITH LONG ISLAND’S PREMIER SERVICES
Nominations for the 2023 Herald Long Island Choice Awards presented by PSEG Long Island are coming soon. Help your faves make it to the top 5!
BEST BARBER SHOP:
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BEST HAIR SALON: East Coast Hair Studio
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BEST CBD STORE: Natural Remedies - Merrick
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BEST MANICURE:
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Enjoy much needed “you time” with a fresh manicure at Ambiance Salon. It’s important to take care of yourself and that includes feeling good, inside and out. Treat yourself to a relaxing wash, color, and cut; facial, massage or electrolysis; nail treatments and so much more.
BEST PEDICURE: Belle Beauty Salon and Spa
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Belle Beauty Salon and Spa, located in Rockville Centre, is a haven of indulgence and rejuvenation. Their exceptional expertise in nail care and other salon services is renowned, attracting clients seeking the ultimate pampering experience. With a team of highly skilled professionals, Belle Beauty Salon and Spa continues to redefine the art of luxurious pedicures, offering a sanctuary where your relaxation and satisfaction take center stage.
BEST MASSAGE: Hand and Stone Massage & Facial Spa Multiple Locations (866) 889-STONE handandstone.com
Returning or first-time customers will enjoy a spa treatment that’s unique to you by licensed/certified/ registered massage therapists or estheticians. The serene environment makes your spa sessions a comfortable and desirable place to be. Each room is private with its own light and sound controls with heated tables and fresh linen so you can become fully immersed in your own tailored experience.
BEST LASER TREATMENT CENTER: Flawless Beauty NY
1177 Broadway, Hewlett (516) 218-2376
flawlessbeautyny.com
At Flawless Beauty NY, their top priority is enhancing your natural beauty. With their expert team of beauty professionals, they work closely with each client to create a personalized combination of treatments that will bring out their unique beauty from the inside out. Their luxurious services include non-surgical body contouring, non-surgical face lifts, facials, lash lift & tint, brow design & tint, teeth whitening, and more.
BEST SPA/MEDICAL SPA:
Rainforest Med Spa
1757 Front St, East Meadow (516) 900-7772
rainforestmedspa.net
Rainforest Med Spa located in East Meadow, has experts ready to carry out a number of services from facial treatments targeting acne, wrinkles and pigmentation to innovative treatments such as Fractional Radio Frequency. They also have body treatments, some of which include body contouring and cellulite treatments. There are also removals and PRP from vampire facials to face lift PRPs.
BEST WAXING:
Calla Lily Rose Beauty Spa
1260 Old Country Rd - Suite 15, Westbury (516) 805-2082
callalilyrose.com
Located in Westbury, Calla Lily Rose Beauty Spa is dedicated to making their clients feel pampered, while looking and feeling beautiful at the same time. Their clients get to relax, unwind and enjoy luxury facial services, laser hair removal and body wraps from a licensed esthetician. Additional services include massages including prenatal massages and assisted stretching from a licensed massage therapist.
Lots of people are hesitant about trying “talk therapy.”
“If I want to talk to someone, I’ll talk to my friends,” barked Olivia. “I’m not going to pay to talk to a stranger. What for? It’s stupid!”
“If you’ve got troubles in this world, and who doesn’t, you have to deal with them,” roared Carl. “What would talking about it do? Suck it up, deal with it, and stop whining away.”
Yes, talk therapy, for those who haven’t tried it, has bad press. And in large part, it’s because of the name. Talk, talk, talk. Talk is cheap in our society. Everybody’s yakking away about something. So what do we need more talk for?
But what if therapy were described in ways that expressed its essence? Not how it takes place; yes, people do talk, but what takes place. Ah, let me count the ways that therapy can be described.
■ Awareness, Awakening, Activation Therapy
No more ‘talk therapy’ Person to Person
■ Empowering, Enriching, Eye-opening Therapy
■ Inspirational, Insightful, Imaginative Therapy
■ Motivational, Meaningful, Memorable Therapy
Please feel free to take your pick, as “Talk Therapy” is all of these -and more. Ideally, I’d like to choose all twelve of these words, but alas, that would be quite a mouthful. So, if I’m forced to choose, my favorite is “EMPOWERING THERAPY.” Why? Because therapy is a unique experience in which you can safely explore and learn about your feelings, thoughts, and behavior in a supportive, non-judgmental environment that will empower your actions, ideas, and choices!
What might you explore? So much!
It might be relationship turbulence, career confusion, stress and tension, anxiety and depression, sexual and self-esteem issues, or anything plaguing you. As you explore these areas, you’ll begin to understand the dynamics underlying them and how to alter them.
With “EMPOWERING THERAPY,” you’ll learn to clarify your thoughts, strengthen your speaking skills, alter your actions, ask better questions, and expand your repertoire of behavior. Over time, therapy will transform your life as you gain confidence, competence and empower yourself to deal with the issues you’re facing now and in the future.
You’ll find it a huge relief to know that you have a built-in support structure – someone who understands your situation, listens to you non-judgmen-
tally, suggests ideas to embrace, and trails to walk. Indeed, as you become more confident, the possibilities for a more productive, happier life are endless.
Oh, and one more benefit of “EMPOWERING THERAPY.” You’ll feel better not only mentally but physically. How does that work? When you’re anxious, depressed, or worried, your body feels stressed. Learn to reduce your stress and your body will thank you by feeling zippier, zestier, and healthier. An added bonus: you may no longer have the need for “pill therapy” when “EMPOWERING THERAPY” with its slow and steady pace, wins the race.
©2023
Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives and overcome procrastination and fear. Contact her at DrSapadin@aol.com. Visit her website at www.PsychWisdom.com.
Petit LarCeny
Hassett Lincoln Mercury in Wantagh reported that an unknown subject removed a booklet of NYS inspection stickers on Aug. 11.
On Aug. 17, a victim reported that an unknown subject removed a bicycle from Briard Street in Wantagh.
At the Wantagh LIRR Station, a victim reported a bicycle was stolen on Aug. 21.
CriminaL misChief
A victim reported that an unknown subject damaged his PVC fence on Washington Avenue in Seaford on Aug. 18.
arrests
Rahsaad Peterson, 48 of Freeport, was arrested for shoplifting at the 7-Eleven on Sunrise Highway in Bellmore on Aug. 21.
Jenna Anglim, 20 of Seaford, and Michael Velez, 21 of Woodside, was arrested for shoplifting at the JC Penny in East Garden City on Aug. 21.
Shannon Fontan, 38, was arrested for shoplifting at the CVS on Jerusalem Avenue in North Bellmore on Aug. 23.
Dwi
Kim Diaz, 50 of Hempstead, was arrested for a DWI at the intersection of Stewart Avenue and Merrick Avenue on Aug. 18.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
1-800-244-TIPS
Nassau County Crime Stoppers
The public is asked to call Crime Stoppers if they have any information about any crimes.
STEPPING OUT
Anders Osborne Duo
Backyard pleasures
…even as summer winds down
By Karen BloomHome is a place of refuge. Now more so than ever, we’ve rediscovered the pleasures of our abodes to entertain, relax and otherwise “chill out.”
We learned as we endured the coronavirus pandemic that moving our living spaces to the outdoors — with many of the creature comforts of indoors — has so many benefits. It’s something we’ll continue to enjoy to fullest in the seasons — and years ahead.
Your backyard is the ideal location to create summers full of memories for you, your family and friends, which will easily continue through fall. Easy to access? Check. Affordable? You bet. Able to accommodate all sorts of activities? Absolutely.
Your backyard’s potential is really only limited by your imagination and willingness to roll up your sleeves to create a sensational space. Plus, you can get the whole family involved in the process — from start to finish.
“Home is not where you live your life – it’s how you live your life,” says food stylist and consultant Wendy Perry.
Today’s outdoor vocabulary includes words like al fresco (in the fresh air), patio (Spanish for back garden), lanai (Hawaiian covered room), veranda (open-walled roofed porch) and portico (covered walkway with columns supporting it).
“We’ve all been practicing our ‘backyarding’ skills for the last few years, taking our indoor lives out into the green space around us,” says Kris Kiser, president of the TurfMutt Foundation. “Now’s a great time to turn your yard into the ideal outdoor room.”
She cites a recent poll commissioned by the TurfMutt Foundation and conducted by The Harris Poll, that reports more than three-quarters of Americans who have a yard (76 percent) say the family yard space is one of the most important parts of their home.
Backyards can become your personal oasis. Fire pits, now all the rage, can be used for warmth on a chilly fall night. Overhead awnings can be used to shade you from the hot sun. Careful landscaping can turn a stone walkway into a tempting journey.
You might want to consider the approaching Labor Day weekend as an opportunity to get all hands on deck to begin the process of giving your yard a facelift. The first step to establishing a fun zone is to work with what you have. Think of it as a pre-fall cleanup. Clean out flowerbeds. Clear the yard of debris. Spread a fresh layer of mulch around trees and bushes. And keep the grass mowed.
See what additional trees, shrubs and plants might be needed.
List all the fun you want to continue to have outside. Identify activity zones for games, entertaining and relaxation. Can your lawn lure your kids away from their screens and into the great outdoors for cornhole bocce ball, croquet, or a giant checkers board game? Do you have a patio table or deck where family game nights can be held? Have a swimming pool where you can plan a “dive in” movie night, and invite your neighbors to bring their favorite pool float? Not to mention a memorable family “staycation” in your own backyard with camping, parties and more.
Bring learning outdoors. Learning is, of course, a year-round process. Keep “summer slide” at bay by setting up an area for outdoor learning, like a space under a shade tree where your kids can do summer reading. Create games and do experiments outdoors.
Don’t forget Fido. Pets are part of the family, too, so think about what backyard improvements you can make to ensure they fully enjoy their outdoor time. Add a water feature for them to cool off. Plant some bushes for napping in the shade. Use a row of hedges to separate their “business” spot from the rest of the backyard activity areas. Just remember when planting to check the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants. Make outdoors as inviting as indoors. Think about ways to make your outdoor living area just as comfortable as your indoor spaces. String lights add a warm glow. That fire pit is great for toasting marshmallows. Consider the good you’re doing. Whether putting in a vegetable garden, planting pollinator-supporting shrubs and flowers, or creating activity zones, your family yard can do a lot — all at once, both for your family and the environment. A grassy area is not only a field for play, but it’s also an excellent carbon-capturing and oxygen-producing space.
Planting shrubs and flowering plants feeds our birds, bees and butterflies. A leafy tree is a perfect perch for a relaxing swing in a hammock, and it provides shade to combat the heat island effect. It also produces oxygen and captures carbon. A garden where you can grow some food for the family gets you digging in the dirt, proven to be good for our immune systems and happiness. (Soil is the new Prozac, after all.)
The roots/Americana rocker brings his acclaimed sound to the Landmark stage. Between the potency of his richly detailed songwriting, intensely emotional, soulful vocals and his piercing, expert guitar work, New Orleans’ Anders Osborne is a true musical treasure. He is regarded among the most original musicians writing and performing today. Osborne’s six-string virtuosity, inventive musicality, and poetic songcraft underpin an everexpanding three-decade catalog celebrated by fans and critics alike. As a sought-after studio talent, his writing resounds through Keb Mo’s award-winning ‘Slow Down,’ Tim McGraw’s ‘Watch the Wind Blow By,’ and more. His extensive touring history encompasses collaborations and performances alongside everyone from Derek Trucks, Warren Haynes, and Stanton Moore, to Phil Lesh and Jackie Greene. Not to mention, he lit up the screen on an episode of the HBO hit ‘Treme.
Sunday, Sept. 3, 7 p.m. $48 and $43. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444, or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.
Sugar Ray
Sugar Ray closes out the summer concert season at Eisenhower Park. Most everything continues to change, yet Sugar Ray never seem to go out of style. While leaders cycle in and out of office, trends come and go. Vinyl dies, then comes back to life. Television shows go off the air and end up somewhere on the internet. Sugar Ray might just outlast them all. Beyond sales of 10 million records, four top-10 songs, streams in the hundreds of millions, and tickets sold, Sugar Ray — co-founded by Mark McGrath (vocals) and Rodney Sheppard (lead guitar) — embodies the endless summer of popular music and culture. Furthermore, how many acts can claim sharing the stage with the Rolling Stones, KISS, and the Sex Pistols; collaborating with Run-DMC, and interpolated by Post Malone? Just Sugar Ray. As always, bring seating.
Sunday, Sept. 3, 8 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov/parks.
THE Your Neighborhood
Sept. 8
George Thorogood & The Destroyers
Since 1975, George Thorogood & The Destroyers have sold over 15 million albums, played more than 8,000 ferocious live shows, and built a catalog of classic hits that includes “Who Do You Love”, “I Drink Alone”, “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer”, “Move It On Over” and “Get A Haircut.” Their definitive badass anthem “Bad To The Bone,” deemed the most popular song for bikers by Spotify, celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022. Now “one of the most iconic bands in rock & roll history” (according to the Rapid City Journal, among others) celebrates it all with their tour Bad All Over The World: 50 Years Of Rock, visiting the Paramount stage, Friday, Sept. 8, 8 p.m. For the past 50 years, it’s been very good to be George Thorogood & The Destroyers. And in 2023, their tour Bad All Over The World: 50 Years Of Rock will prove why like never before. “If you’re content, you may as well be dead.” George says. “I think everyone has thoughts about retiring, but the phone keeps ringing. ‘You want me and The Destroyers to come to your town, set up our gear, wear some cool threads and play ‘Who Do You Love?’ End of conversation. Let’s rock!” $89.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster. com or ParamountNY.com.
On exhibit
View the landmark exhibition “Modigliani and the Modern Portrait,” at Nassau County Museum of Art. Devoted to the way that Modigliani powerfully re-defined the art of portraiture, the show includes his masterworks along with paintings and drawings by his Parisian contemporaries (Picasso, van Dongen, Laurencin). Modigliani’s enduring influence on artists even in our own time is shown in a selection of Contemporary paintings by such important figures as David Hockney, Eric Fischl, Elizabeth Peyton and others. The exhibition is being curated by Dr. Kenneth Wayne, founder of The Modigliani Project, which authenticates paintings and drawings (two of the works in the show have been recently approved by the committee). Through Nov. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516)
Sept. 9
Bird walk
The South Shore Audubon Society welcomes all to join its members for a bird walk, at the Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area, Saturday, Sept. 9, starting at 9 a.m. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. 500 Slice Drive, off Waukeena Ave. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. Also text regarding questionable weather conditions. For more information, visit SSAudubon.org
Leaf Peepers
Celebrate fall and all the colors of the season with the family at Long Island Children’s Museum, Saturday, Sept. 23, 12-2 p.m. Use your imagination to make animal art out of colorful leaf shapes, focusing on the seasonal shades of vibrant yellow, deep purple, and fiery orange, at the drop-in program. Suitable for ages 3 and up. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800
516-569-4000 x250 (Must have reliable transportation)
To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!
To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!
To learn more about Paws With A Cause and to find out how you help, just download this app and watch the story come to life!
GET ZAPPAR ZAP THE CODE TO DONATE
St. Jude Run/Walk
Sept. 10 Sept. 23
Registration is open for the St. Jude Walk/ Run Long Island, presented by Tweezerman International during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Sunday, Sept. 10, 9 a.m., at Marcum Corporate Offices & Park. The St. Jude Walk/Run offers everyone a chance to walk or run and gather in-person or virtually to raise funds and awareness for the St. Jude mission: Finding cures. Saving children. Besides the walk/run, the event features entertainment, food and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Participants will even have the opportunity to connect with St. Jude patients and learn firsthand how their support makes a difference. 10 Melville Park Road, Melville. Register or learn more at StJude.org/ walklongisland.
Family Street Festival
The Bellmore Family Street Festival returns on Thursday, Sept. 21, running through Sept. 24. On its opening day, the carnival will commence at 6 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, shopping the street vendors begins at 10 a.m. For a fun weekend of games, shopping and entertainment, be sure to stop by the Bellmore LIRR Station. For more, visit BellmoreChamber.com.
Cure of Arts Class Reunion
Cure of Arts
Class of
1973 will have 50th reunion celebration, Saturday, Sept. 23, at Mio Posto in Merrick. The evening kicks off at 7 p.m., and costs $60 per person to attend. 16 Merrick Ave. RSVP by contacting (516) 551-8314.
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.
Having an event?
Sept. 2
Storybook Stroll
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure, Saturday, Sept. 2, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stroll the gardens and open your ears to Mary Howitt’s classic tale The Spider and The Fly.” Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.
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.
Westbury House Tour
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour, Sunday, Sep. 3, 1:30 p.m. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 3330048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.
Merrick Fall Festival
The Merrick Fall Festival kicks off on Oct. 20. The carnival and festival is held in the Merrick Long Island Rail Road station and on Merrick Avenue through Oct. 22. The carnival opens on Friday at 6 p.m. and the street festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday, starting at 11 a.m. Visit MerrickChamber.org for more information.
Bingo at Ohav Shalom
Congregation Ohav Shalom hosts Bingo games, every other Sunday, at 145 S. Merrick Ave., Merrick. For times and more information, contact (516) 378-1968 or visit Ohav.org for upcoming dates. All are welcome.
Car show Fridays
Enjoy vintage cars, socializing and more. Every Friday night, join the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores for a car show in the LIRR parking lot in Bellmore. It’s a summer scene not to be missed. Admission for people is free, cars costs $5. Show opens at 6 p.m. Visit BellmoreChamber.com for more.
Networking with the Chamber
The Merrick Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event, Monday, Sept. 18, 6 p.m., at Frankie’s Restaurant. 1692 Merrick Road, Merrick. $20 admission goes towards appetizers and cash bar. For more, visit MerrickChamber. com.
STARTING FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1ST
APPETIZERS
Lobster Stack
Sweet Lobster Meat, Avocado, Mango, Tomato, Cor� & a Mango Chili Aioli
Mussels & Clams Posillipo
Medley of Mussels, Clams & Sausage in a spicy tomato sauce, crispy crostini
ENTREES
Crabmeat Cr�sted Monkfish
Swiss Chard, Lobster Israeli Cous Cous, Lemon Saffron Cream Sauce
Oreganata King Crab & Fett�cine Pasta
Chopped Asparag�s, Seafood Paella
6 oz. Brazilian Lobster Tail, shrimp, clams, mussels, chorizo sausage & g�illed chicken tossed with Saffron rice and Plum tomato
Surf N Turf
8 oz. Filet Mig�on, 6 oz. Brazilian Lobster Tail
Sauteed Spinach & Lobster Mashed Potato
45 oz. Dr� Aged Por�erhouse
Ser�ed with Creamed of Spinach & Pesto Par�igiana Fries
Swastikas were found spray painted on the playground of Chatteron School in July. Police arrested a 14-year-old from Bellmore on Aug. 24 in relation to the incident.
Second teen arrested in bias incident
A second teenager has been arrested following a bias incident in Merrick, that occurred at the end of July.
The Nassau County Police Department reported that officers found two swastikas spray painted on playground equipment of Chatterton School, located at 108 Merrick Avenue. The swastikas were approximately 1 foot in height.
It was reported on Aug. 10 that a 14-year-old male from Freeport was arrest- ed, and charged with criminal mis-
chief, aggravated harassment, making graffiti and possession of graffiti instruments.
On Aug. 24, police said another 14-yearold male from Bellmore was arrested in relation to the bias incident. He was charged with aggravated harassment, making graffiti and possession of graffiti instruments, and issued an appearance ticket, returnable to the Nassau County Family Court.
KIMON BEKELIS, MD
Chairman
Neurointerventional Services at Catholic Health
Director
Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island
JOSEPH BENDEN LMSW, LNHA
Administrator
The Five Towns Premier Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
MATTHEW J. BRUDERMAN
Chairman, Board of Directors
Nassau University Medical Center
JORDAN BRODSKY, MD
Medical Doctor & Rheumatologist
Rheumatology Consultants
TARA BUONOCORE-RUT
President & CEO
CenterLight Health System
DONNA CELARDO, MSN, RN, SAFE
Director
ACLD
CRISTINA CELLUCCI, MSN, RN, SAFE
Director of Nursing, Emergency Department
Mount Sinai South Nassau
REBECCA CHARLES, MHA
Director of Operations
Harmony Healthcare Long Island
STACEY CONKLIN, MSN, RN-BC, MHCDS, NE-BC
Senior Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer
Mount Sinai South Nassau
NOVLET DAVIS, RN
Nurse Practitioner
St. Francis Hospital
KRISTEN DESIDERI
Licensed Practical Nurse
Glengariff
DANIEL DIAZ
Orthotist & Prosthetist
Complete Orthopedic Services Inc.
MARK C. DRAKOS, MD
Medical Director Hospital For Special Surgery
ADINA GELFAND-EREZ R-PAC
CEO
Bleu Glove Concierge
CAROL GOMES, MS, FACHE, CPHQ
CEO, Stony Brook University Hospital
Stony Brook Medicine
TIANA HAKIMI, DDS
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
North Shore Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
JAY ITZKOWITZ, MD, MBA, FACEP
Chair of Department of Emergency Medicine
Mount Sinai South Nassau
JONATHAN JASSEY, DO FAAP
Founding Pediatrician
Concierge Pediatric Practice
LINDA JACOBS, MD
Pediatrician
Concierge Pediatric Practice
FELICIA KASTOW
Director of Marketing & Operations
Pure Mammography
CHRISTINE L. KIPPLEY, RN
VP Patient Care Services & Chief Nursing Officer
Peconic Bay Medical Center Northwell
ALEXANDER M. KOTLYAR, MD, FACOG
Staff Physician
Genesis Fertility and Reproductive Medicine
KEN LONG
Senior Vice President, Administration & Chief Clinical Integration Officer
Mount Sinai South Nassau
JEFFREY MCQUEEN M.B.A., L.C.D.C.
Executive Director
Mental Health Association of Nassau County
COLLEEN MERLO
CEO
Association for Mental Health and Wellness
EUNICE E. PARK, MD, MPH
Dual-board certified Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Founder
AIREM Modern Beauty Rituals
DAVID PODWALL, MD President
Nassau County Medical Society
JOHN POHLMAN, CPA
Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer
Mount Sinai South Nassau
CHRISTINE PONZIO
Executive Director
Winters Center for Autism
KAITLIN POWERS
Regional Director of Admissions
Long Beach Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
JEFFREY L. REYNOLDS, PhD
President & CEO
Family & Children’s Association
AMY RECCO
COO, Owner & Vice President
Friends for Life Homecare & Medicaid Consultants
YOLANDA ROBANO-GROSS, LMSW, MHA
CEO
Options for Community Living, Inc.
STAVROULA SAVELIDIS, MS
Executive Director
Nassau County Medical Society
KERRI ANNE SCANLON, RN, FAAN
Executive Director Glen Cove Hospital, Northwell Health
MELISSA SCHACHTER, MS, CCC-SLP, TSSLD Director
Speech Language Place
GARY SCHLESINGER
President & CEO
ParCare Community Health Network
CMSGT (RET.) EDWARD SCHLOEMAN
Chairman
Operation Warrior Shield
AMY SILVA-MAGALHAES
COO
The Bristal Assisted Living
SHARON SOMEKH, MD, IBCLC
Pediatrician
Concierge Pediatric Practice
SPECIAL AWARDS
DISTINGUISHED VISIONARY
MICHAEL J. DOWLING
CEO
Northwell Health
EDUCATION
DAVID BATTINELLI, MD
Executive Vice President & Physician-in-Chief, Northwell Health
Dean, Betsey Cushing Whitney Professor of Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
MARIA FLETCHER, PhD
Associate Dean for Nursing & Associate Professor St. Joseph’s University
DEBORAH HUNT, PhD, RN
Dean & Professor Adelphi University
PETER IGARASHI, MD
Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook Stony Brook Medicine
NICOLE WADSWORTH
Dean & Professor New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM)
CHRISTOPHER R. VAKOC, MD/PhD
Alan and Edith Seligson Professor of Cancer Research Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR
PROF. CHAD BOUTON
VP, Advanced Engineering, Director of Neural Bypass and Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine
Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health
ORGANIZATIONS OF EXCELLENCE
FAMILY & CHILDREN’S ASSOCIATION
NEW YORK STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
R.J. ZUCKERBERG CANCER CENTER
R.J. ZUCKERBERG CANCER HOSPITAL
THERALYMPIC SPEECH THERAPY
Alzheimer’s Foundation brings walk to Nassau
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
They are walking for a cure at Eisenhower Park this year — a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America bringing its annual walk to Nassau County this year on Saturday, Sept. 9. Fundraising efforts center around enriching the lives of those with the disease, and creating hope for a future without it.
Bert Brodsky founded the group in 2002, a decade after he lost his mother to the disease after a 12-year struggle. Today, the foundation provides support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias worldwide. It also funds research for new treatments — and hopefully, one day, a cure.
This is the first time the East Meadow park is hosting the walk — something that had previously been held in the Town of Babylon, according to Chuck Fuschillo, the foundation’s president and chief executive who also is a former state senator. Eisenhower Park caught the attention of organizers after it opened a respite care area this past May.
The respite care park, Fuschillo said, serves many purposes.
“One, is for caregivers to go with the person they’re caring for in a beautiful setting,” he said. “It’s also for themselves, to avoid caregiver burnout. But it’s also educational — there are signs along the
park that provide education about Alzheimer’s disease, and tips and strategies for caregivers.”
Signage also provides contact information for the foundation’s national helpline at (866) 232-8484, which connects callers to licensed social workers trained to help with situations that may arise when caring for Alzheimer’s patients.
The foundation’s national Walk in the Park weekend will include physical walks on Long Island, and on Sept. 10 in New York City’s Battery Park.
“We encourage people to participate in both walks, but we have walkers through-
out the entire country that create their own walks and support the work of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America,” Fuschillo said. “So, we’re very appreciative of individuals doing this throughout the entire country on that weekend.”
The walk serves as a major fundraiser for some of the foundation’s programs and initiatives. For example, the organization recently finalized the purchase of a building in Amityville, which will become the its Long Island education and resource center. There, the foundation will offer daily therapeutic programs, dementia training to professionals and
nonprofessionals in the health care industry, memory screenings and more.
“It will be one of the largest therapeutic and domestic training centers on the island,” Fuschillo said. “You know, this disease has affected so many people and it’s continually growing throughout Long Island — there’s more than 60,000 people living with it now. We want to make sure that we have support services for families. And we’re also providing hope with the research dollars that we provide.”
The foundation also funds research at Stony Brook University and NYU Langone, as well as the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health in Manhasset. Some of it includes finding new treatment for Alzheimer’s patients who experience hallucinations and agitation — work that takes place at Feinstein.
The foundation also provides scholarships to high school seniors across the country who submit essays detailing how Alzheimer’s disease has impacted their lives. To date, the foundation has awarded more than $450,000 to college-bound students.
Registration for the walk can be done so ahead of time at AlzFdn.org/walk. Individuals can register with a team or as a solo walker. They can also sign up onsite, the day of the walk.
This year’s goal is to raise $300,000, with nearly $85,000 already collected.
In-person registration opens at 9 a.m. at Field 6, located at 1899 Park Blvd. The walk officially kicks off at 10.
Courtesy Alzheimer’s Foundation of AmericaIrish eyes were smiling at Eisenhower Park
Long Island’s Irish American Society hosts night full of fanfare at Lakeside Theatre
While it wasn’t St. Patrick’s Day last week, there certainly was a lot to celebrate at Nassau County’s Eisenhower Park. After a weather cancelation earlier this month, Irish American Night went off successfully on Aug. 21, drawing crowds of county residents, who came out to celebrate Irish music, dance and culture.
The event is hosted by the Irish American Society of Nassau, Suffolk & Queens, Inc., which is based in Mineola, alongside the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums.
The evening was organized by cochairs Bridie Mahoney and Brendan Kerins and its master of ceremonies was Tony Jackson. P.J. Smith, president of the Irish American Society, was also present.
Performances by the Inis Fada Pipe Band, Clann Agus Cairde Ceili Band, Inis Fada Set Dancers and the Donny Golden School of Champion Irish Step Dancers entertained hundreds of fans packed into the fields of the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre.
The National Anthem was performed by Tommy Mulvihill and Sean Quinn. The Tommy Mulvihill Band took the stage later in the evening to put on a complete set. The band features Mulvihill, a Celtic singer.
Frank Alagia, the deputy commissioner of Nassau County parks, recreation and museums, on behalf of County Executive Bruce Blakeman, presented citations to several honorees.
The honorees included Michelle Byrne, Jeff Clark, Michael Flannery, Ed Friel, Don Lavin, Mary Lennon, Rita Lydon-Lenz, Don Mahoney, Frances McLoughlin, Niall Mulligan, Eileen Myers and Kit Smith.
There’s more free concerts and cultural nights in store throughout the remainder of the summer. For more information and a full list of upcoming shows, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
–Jordan Vallone
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A, FKA Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota N.A., as Trustee for the Holders of The CWMBS, Inc. Reperforming Loan Remic Trust Certificates, Series 2002-R3, Plaintiff AGAINST Nassau County Public Administrator, as the Limited Administrator of the Estate of William F. Pearsall a/k/a William Pearsall; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 18, 2022 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 14, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 170 Sherman Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 56 Block 22 Lot 310. Approximate amount of judgment $704,731.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 608549/2017. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Robert Litt, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP
f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: August 2, 2023
77400 141261
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
In the Matter of the Application Of Empire Offshore Wind LLC For A Certificate Of Environmental Compatibility And Public Need For The Construction Of Approximately 12 Miles Of Transmission Lines From The Boundary Of New York State Territorial Waters To A Point Of Interconnection In Town Of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, Case 22-T-0346 (the “NY Project”). Pursuant to Article VII of the Public Service Law of the State of New York (Article VII), Empire Offshore Wind LLC and EW Offshore Wind Transport Corporation (Empire or the Applicant) is providing notice of a supplement to Empire’s application (Application) for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need (Certificate) for the proposed construction and operation of the portion of the transmission system for the Empire Wind 2 offshore wind generating facility located in New York State (the NY Project). The Article VII process is limited to the permitting of Empire Wind 2 within New York State, and construction of the NY Project is not expected to commence before 2024.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
THAT, on August 1, 2023, and August 15, 2023, the Applicant filed a Supplement in the aboveentitled matter with the New York State Public Service Commission (Commission).
DESCRIPTION OF THE SUPPLEMENT
The Supplement clarifies that the NY Project will include the following:
1. Two (2) threecore 345-kV high voltage alternating-current submarine export cables;
2. An onshore substation in the Village of Island Park which will house major control components for the electrical system and perform functions such as voltage regulation, reactive power compensation, and harmonic filtering;
3. The new Hampton Road substation in Oceanside in the Town in Hempstead, New York which will include substation facilities that will provide the necessary breaker arrays and 345-kV/138-kV transformers; and
4. Four (4) 138-kV loop-in / loopout line cable circuits, located within an approximately 0.1-mi (0.2-km) long cable corridor from the Hampton Road substation to existing LIPA transmission lines located under Lawson Boulevard in Oceanside, New York.
A copy of the Supplement has been filed with the Commission and served upon the Town Supervisor of the Town of Hempstead, the Mayor of the Village of Island Park, the City Manager of the City of Long Beach, New
York, and other statutory parties. A copy of the Supplement will also be available on the Department of Public Service website (www.dps.ny.gov), available by clicking on “File Search” (located under the heading “Commission Files”), and entering “22-T-0346” in the “Search by Case Number” field. Additional information can be found on the NY Project website at https://www.empirewind. com/article-vii and at the following locations:
Seeking Candidates for the Following Positions:
TEACHER AIDES
Starting Salary: $18.65 per hour
Two years’ college preferred
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER AIDES
Salary: $17.00 per hour
Two years’ college preferred
SUBSTITUTE CLEANERS
Salary: $16.00 per hour
District Wide – All Shifts
SUBSTITUTE MONITORS
Salary: $15 per hour
District Wide
SUBSTITUTE REGISTERED PROFESSIONAL NURSE
Salary: $150 per diem
Must have Registered Nurse’s License, CPR and AED Certification
SUBSTITUTE CLERICAL
Salary: $20 per hour
District Wide
SUBSTITUTE SECURITY AIDES
Salary: $20.00 per hour
District Wide
Must have continuing possession of NYS registration as a security guard issued by the NYS Department of State. Security and/or law enforcement experience preferred Candidates are to submit a letter of interest with resume and credentials to:
MS. Diane DrakoPouloS Personnel Clerk east rockaway uFSD
443 ocean avenue, east rockaway, nY 11518 (516) 887-8300 ext. 1-441 ddrakopoulos@eastrockawayschools.org
The Seaford Union Free School District has the following opening:
SCHOOL NURSE (Floater)
FULL-TIME
Effective Date: August 30, 2023
*Starting Salary $60,948
RN NYS License required, BLS certified
• Experience with school aged children, including students with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledgeable of CDC, OHSA, NYSDOH guidelines as they pertain to disease and or illness including COVID.
• Maintains records and performs screenings as per N.Y.S guidelines.
• Provides basic healthcare and first aid to students that are ill, medically fragile and/or injured.
• Provides treatment, documents injuries and maintains ongoing student medical records.
• Administers daily medications.
• Knowledgeable of diabetic care and seizure protocol in a school setting.
• Must have superior nursing skills to include experience in emergency procedures, anaphylaxis, injuries and general triage.
• Must be highly skilled communicator, with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Must be collaborative in nature and contribute to the health and well being of the school community.
On-Line Applications Only www.olasjobs.org/nassau
Field Ser vice Technicians F/T
(Mobile Mechanics) Needed For Crown Lift Trucks Nassau/Suffolk, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx
$24- $45/hour based on experience џ
HEWLETT-WOODMERE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
ASSISTANT TEACHERS For Yeshiva
Of South Shore. Afternoon Hours. Competitive Pay. Please Send Resume To: monika@yoss.org
ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL /COL-
LEGE /GRAD SCHOOL STUDENTS :
Staff Needed Before School 7:00-9:00AM
Afterschool 2:45-6:00PM. Experience with children preferred. Friedberg JCC Locations in Oceanside, Bellmore, Baldwin, Long Beach, Island Park. Send resume to: tcorchado@friedbergjcc.org or call 516 -634-4179.
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a
FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department.
Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
DELI
EDITOR/REPORTER
The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry.
To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Salary, Commission, Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off.
Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PART TIME ASSISTANTS
Garden City Childcare Center
Monday through Friday $15 per hour
HS Diploma Required Call 516-572-7614
PERSONAL TRAINER : Fitness Studio East Rockaway. Competitive Compensation. Experience Required. Email resume amplifiedems@gmail.com Call (516)253-5450
PRESS-ROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP
NEUROLOGICAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM BY PARAGON HEALTHCARE
Long Island’s Premier Short-Term Inpatient Neurological Rehabilitation Team
Long Island’s Premier Short-Term Inpatient Neurological Rehabilitation Team
Innovative Patient Centered Care Rehabilitating Patients with Brain Injury, Stroke, and other Neurological Disorders. Intense rehabilitation programming is provided up to 3.5 hours per day and up to 7 days per week.
Innovative Patient Centered Care Rehabilitating Patients with Brain Injury, Stroke, and other Neurological Disorders. Intense rehabilitation programming is provided up to 3.5 hours per day and up to 7 days per week.
PT/OT/Speech Therapy, Brain Training and Cognitive Rehab. Certified Brain Injury Specialists On Site.
PT/OT/Speech Therapy, Brain Training and Cognitive Rehab. Certified Brain Injury Specialists On Site.
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. We offer salary, commission, bonuses, health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Will consider part time. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE open-
HomesHERALD
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
East Atlantic Beach
FEMA Compliant Stunner
Welcome home to this totally renovated, 2 story home with parking for 3 cars plus storage. This brand new home boasts a main floor with living room, 3 bedrooms, full bath and deck. The top floor features a state of the art kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, a primary bedroom with full bath, office, half bath and deck with ocean views. There is ground level parking and storage, sliders to back deck, brand new CAC, washer/dryer, on demand hot water heater and sprinklers. You will love having your own private beach! Enjoy all the West End of Long Beach has to offer with the privacy of living in East Atlantic Beach!
The problems water causes
Q. Our attic air conditioning leaked into our ceiling. The ceiling is so wet we need to replace it. We now understand we’ll need to have the pipe that drains water out of our A.C. drain pan blown out every spring, and now have a service contract for that. The insulation is also wet. We were told to let it dry out and it will be fine. Is this true? Also, the ceiling joists over our 12-foot-wide master bedroom are only 2 x 6, which might cause the ceiling to sag and isn’t enough for the insulation, we’re told, which we understand has to be 10 inches thick. When we asked our contractor about this, he told us we can push the insulation down and then replace the plywood floor in our attic. What do you think?
SUNday, 9/3/23 HEWLETT Bay Pa RK
190 Meadowview Ave, BA, Ever Dream of Living in A Castle?
This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14. Near All. Must See This Unique Home! REDUCED $2,700,000
HEWLETT
1390 Broadway #102, BA, NEW! Move Right Into This
Magnificent Newly Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Prestigious Hewlett Townhouse. Open Layout. NEW State of the Art Kitchen & Bths, HW Flrs, Windows, HVAC, Recessed LED Lights, Doors, W/D. Community Pool. Full Service 24 Hr Doorman, Valet Pkg, Elevator, Priv Storage. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship $579,000
1534 Broadway #205, BA, Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft,
2 Bedroom A(Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious
Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER! $579,000
WOOdMERE
504 Saddle Ridge Rd, BA , Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2 Bth Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/ Wood EIK Opens to Dining Room & Living Room. Lower Level Den. HW Flrs, Gas Heat, CAC. Oversized Property! SD#14.
Rhonda Healy
Century 21 Verdeschi & Walsh Realty 1025 W. Beech Street Long Beach 516.236.7269 cell rhondaghealy@gmail.com
A. When it rains, it pours. The leaking was a wakeup call that A.C. unit condensation occurs every summer season, and even though you have a drain pan, if it doesn’t have a working sensor to shut off before the drain pan overflows and you never clean the drain pan pipe to the outdoors, the water overflows. You should, by law (code), have a floor in the attic around the unit, also, which can dry out, since it remains structural, and will be minimally affected by the water.
The insulation and the sheetrock are another story. If the sheetrock hasn’t loosened and isn’t sagging, then it can just be left to dry out. Make certain, even using a moisture meter, that the sheetrock is completely dry before repainting to avoid potential mildew and discoloration. The insulation, if it is either fiberglass or closed-cell foam, can be dried out also, but only if it can be exposed. This means removing the plywood flooring above so that air can get to the insulation.
In addition, the insulation should be inspected to see that it isn’t compressed by the saturation weight of the water, since compressing insulation, contrary to what you were told, actually takes away the ability for it to work properly. The principle behind insulation technology isn’t just the use of thermally resistant material but, most critically, the insulation forms tiny air pockets within the material that form the resistance to air passing through. Each trapped air bubble slows the transfer of cold or heat by first conducting or resisting the temperature change within the air molecules.
Heat moves by one of three mechanical principles, convection, conduction and radiation. If the air bubbles or pockets in the insulation are pressed closer together and the material made denser by this, the conduction or transfer of temperature is easier, so the insulation has less likelihood of resisting, and resisting is what you want insulation to do. It would be great to rebuild the floor with deeper joists or have closed-cell foam sprayed in, since it also resists water saturation to solve the problem. Good luck!
© 2023 Monte LeeperReaders are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
Open Houses
HEWLETT BA,1534 BROADWAY #205, BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER!!Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom(Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living...$579,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
HEWLETT BAY PARK BA,.190 Meadowview Ave Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!..REDUCED
$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299
REAL ESTATE
Open Houses
CEDARHURST BA, 332B Peninsula Blvd, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth Coop Townhouse. LR, DR, 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
Open Houses
HEWLETT BA, 1390 Broadway #102, NEW! Move Right Into This Magnificent Newly Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Prestigious Hewlett Townhouse.Open Layout. NEW State of the Art Kitchen & Bths,HW Flrs, Windows, HVAC,Recessed LED Lights, Doors, W/D. Community Pool. Full Service 24 Hr Doorman, Valet Pkg, Elevator, Priv Storage. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship...$579,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
Parking Space Available
COMMERCIAL PARKING VANS, TRUCKS, TRAILERS, STORAGE CONTAINERS, OVERNIGHT, DAYTIME 516 996 5818
Garages For Rent
OCEANSIDE 2 CAR Garage.Great Location.Good for Classic Cars or Storage. Call For Further Informations. Must See! 516-476-8787
Florida Real Estate
WOODMERE BA, 504 Saddle Ridge Rd.,Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2 Bth Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/Wood EIK Opens to Dining Room & Living Room. Lower Level Den. HW Flrs, Gas Heat, CAC. Oversized Property! SD#14.Near All!..$999,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
Apartments For Rent
CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available.
(516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978
OCEANSIDE 1st Floor, 2Bds, 1Bath, Large EIK, Large LR, Fin. Basement/ Bath Yard, Oceanside SD. Call 516-476-8787
DELRAY BEACH, FL: For Sale, opportunity before it hits the market! Single Story Ranch Condo. Beautifully appointed in desirable Emerald Pointe gated community, Approx 1800 Sq Ft. Furnished, All Appliances, 2 Bed / 2 Bath, Eat-In Kitchen, Walk-In Closets, Great Interior Storage and Exterior Storage Room, Screened-In Porch with Dual Interior Access, New Rheem HVAC Jan 2019, Ceiling fans throughout, 4 Private Parking Spots, Clubhouse with Auditorium, Pool, Gym, Tennis, Pickleball (TBD), Game and Card Rms, Interior Walking-Paths, Pet Friendly, 55+ Community, Easy access to Palm Beach International and Ft Lauderdale Airports. Exciting Downtown Delray offers beautiful Beaches, Shopping, Restaurants, and Nightlife. Asking $309,999. Call David at 248-240-8154 SWCGRPMI@gmail.com
Herald
Home Sales
A sampling of recent sales in the area
Baldwin $670,000
Park Avenue. Other. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Living room with fireplace. Formal dining room. Den/ family room. Master bedroom with fireplace. Charming historical details, including French doors.
Taxes: $13,593
East Meadow $785,000
Cleveland Avenue. Expanded Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. First floor master bedroom. Updates include cathedral ceiling, skylight and security system.
Taxes: $13,299.60
Elmont $692,500
Francis Court. Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Front porch. First floor master bedroom. Updates include gas fireplace.
Taxes: $12,350
Lido Beach $999,000
Lido Boulevard. Split Level. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Den/family room and home office. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight.
Taxes: $12,374.48
Lynbrook $861,000
Northumberland Gate. Split Level. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Granite countertops. Formal dining room.
Taxes: $18,766.97
Merrick $720,000
Wynsum Avenue. Splanch. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Large eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room with sliders to spacious yard. Laundry room on main level. Updates include cathedral ceiling. Great location within walking distance of Wynsum Avenue Park.
Taxes: $22,916.44
Oceanside $745,000
River Avenue. Expanded Cape. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Open layout. Den/family room. Skylight and wood burning stove. Updates include cathedral ceiling and security system.
Taxes: $13,057
Rockville Centre $1,775,000
Allen Road. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Ample storage.
Taxes: $18,500
West Hempstead $630,000
Fairlawn Avenue. Cape. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Updated modern open eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, island and stainless steel appliances. Living room with fireplace. Two bedrooms on first level, large bedroom with office on second floor. Private yard. Convenient location near transportation and shopping.
Taxes: $12,602
Source: The Multiple Listing Service of Long Island Inc,, a computerized network of real estate offices serving Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Brooklyn.
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
MERCHANDISE MART
Antiques/Collectibles
We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry
Handyman
Finds Under $100 PROHT 100 INCH, Portable Tripod Projection Screen, New, $45, 516-816-7383, Wantagh
Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry
*MICHAEL LO BAIDO CONSTRUCTION*
HANDYMAN
Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated. Licensed and Insured. 30-Year Nassau County Resident. Friendly Frank Phone/Text 516-238-2112
Autos Wanted
Health & Fitness
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 888-514-3044
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$
516-671-6464
Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com
FINDS UNDER $100
Finds Under $100
20LB YORK DUMBELL set and 12lb Reebok dumbell set. $40 for both sets.
516-707-0357
32 X 32 Mirror beveled edge etchings in corners, hardware included for hanging.$70.00 (516)579-9089 excellent
ANTIQUE BLUE AND white flow blue pitcher 8" and bowl 10". Excellent condition
$60 516-295-1548
ANTIQUE HALF DOLL lamp 7" tall original lace dress. needs plug, $55
516 295-1548
GIRLS FALL CLOTHES Size 5 New with Tags $8 each item. 917-420-5814
GIRLS FALL CLOTHES Size 8 New with Tags $9 each item. 917-420-5814
GOLDTONE LIGHTER BY Colibri, Brand new with butane refill, vintage $20,00 take all (516)579-9089
OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS DECORA-
TIONS: Lights, Lawn Ornaments, Tree Ornaments, 10 Figure Nativity Set w/Stable. Free! 516-889-3439
TABLETOP GRILL, PROPANE, 13"W x 19"L, New, $35, 516-816-7383, Wantagh
TOP FLIGHT GOLF clubs for sale. Irons
3-9 plus pitching iron. $99.00 516-333-9878
VINTAGE VOLTRON LION force 11" pull back motion action toy w/sword, shield. $75. mint 516-707-0357
Finds $100-$350
DINING ROOM CHAIRS (6): Beige, Strong, Beautiful, Luxurious. 2 Slightly Soiled. $350 Negotiable. Call 516-889-0321
SERVICES
Appliance Srvc./Repair
APPLIANCE REPAIRS
Washers, Dryers, Ranges, Ovens, Refrigerators, Freezers, Dishwashers, Microwaves.
Cement Specialist, Brickwork, Interlock Bricks, Belgium Blocks, Stoops, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Basement Entrances, Pavers, Waterproofing. Quality Work, Lic./ Ins. Owner Always Onsite Free Estimates 516-354-5578
Doors
E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net
Home Improvement
BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636
HANDY DANDY HOME IMPROVEMENTS
* Full Or Partial Kitchens/ Baths *Painting *Sheetrock *Taping/ Spackling *Installations Ceramic/ Vinyl Tile *Carpentry *Alterations *Repairs/ More. FREE ESTIMATES. Dan 516-342-0761
Privacy Hedge! Arborvitae 6-foot Reduced to $125/each. Free Installation, Free Delivery. Fast growing, High-quality Beautiful & Bushy! Order now to reserve for early Fall delivery. LowCostTrees.com 518-536-1367
Electricians
Lic/Ins.
HErald Crossword Puzzle
All
SECURE YOUR HOME with Vivint Smart Home technology. Call 866-601-1219 to learn how you can get a professionally installed security system with $0 activation.
Miscellaneous
BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313
Power Washing
POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells
HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-598-5898
MY CARING PLAN'S local advisors have helped thousands of families with unique needs find senior living. Can you afford 2k a month in rent? We can help for free!
866-989-1812
VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574
AUTOMOBILE & MARINE
Autos For Sale
LEXUS, LS430, 2002: 107,533 Miles, Excellent Condition, Automatic, Green Grey, Leather Seats, Well Maintained, Dealer Serviced, Garage Kept, New Michelin Tires, $8,500. Motivated 516-760-0468
MAZDA MIATA 2015 Club Edition, Silver Black Interior, 17,000 Miles, Perfect Condition. If Looking for a Miata, This is a good One To Buy. $22,000 917-273-3737
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Our children’s education can’t be all about numbers
imagine students who can not only grasp the concepts of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, courses through the diligent application of the scientific method, but also generate original and thought-provoking work in the humanities. Picture them creating intricate pieces in fine, performing and culinary arts, and graduating with a thorough comprehension of holistic health and physical wellbeing. Isn’t this the kind of holistic education that benefits society?
But such growth and learning cannot be conveniently distilled into numerical values. It’s a fallacy to assume that numbers hold the ultimate truth about the depth of our students’ learning.
The New York State Education Department has created a blue-ribbon
committee to present potential changes to graduation measures. One desired change is to shift toward more holistic assessments that evaluate a broader range of skills and knowledge alongside the traditional Regents exams, incorporating project-based assessments, portfolios, presentations and other methods.
Additionally, there is a need for more flexible pathways to graduation, acknowledging students’ diverse strengths, interests and career goals. New pathways could involve offering various courses, internships and experiences on college campuses, allowing students to specialize in their areas of passion.
A focus on real-world relevance is also important, emphasizing practical skills, critical thinking, problem solving and the application of knowledge to prepare students for future challenges. The aim is to create a learning environment that nurtures mastery, creativity and individual identity, in which students
can pursue their unique interests and meet their specific needs. By fostering each student’s unique identity, we can ensure equal opportunities for success and access to necessary resources and support, irrespective of their background or circumstances. It would require flexible scheduling, differentiated instruction, and opportunities for students to pursue their interests.
There is a prevailing concern that the Education Department might contemplate reducing standards and expectations. I am hopeful that it will do no such thing, and I strongly oppose any such direction of thought. All students, without exception, should be given the chance to display their mastery in all areas of learning. This encompasses a comprehensive understanding of subjects ranging from STEM to humanities, encompassing fine, performing and culinary arts as well as physical education and health.
Across the nation, societal divisions have deepened, yet our common ground outweighs our differences. Unfortunately, the decline of tight-knit neighborhoods, the excessive reliance on social media, and the neglect of reading have hindered genuine and civil interactions among us. Instead of engaging meaningfully with our neighbors, we often resort to shouting into the echo chambers of social platforms. Both classic and contemporary literary works are rejected as unworthy of our attention, further fragmenting our intellectual pursuits.
As educators, we possess the extraordinary power to give students the platform to realize their potential. I promote the idea of the hashtag “Read Write Think Critically Daily.” Rather than instructing students what to think, our role should focus more on guiding them in the art of critical thinking. I sincerely hope that any forthcoming changes in graduation requirements will be designed to unlock the full potential of every student.
Gone camping, better late than never
There are probably some experiences people shouldn’t try for the first time when they’re over 65, but I really wanted to go camping out West. I don’t much like the notion of a “bucket list,” with its attendant connotation of impending bucketkicking, but I knew I wanted to try camping while I’m still fit. My daughter, an experienced outdoorswoman, organized the adventure, and came along with her two kids, ages 6 and 4. My son and daughter-inlaw immediately signed on with their two kids, 10 and 8. We picked a week in August when my husband would be immersed in the most anticamping experience imaginable, a trade show in Las Vegas.
He didn’t go outside for six days straight, working, eating, sleeping in the hotel. We didn’t go inside for a week, except to sleep (briefly).
Long story short: I’m thrilled that I went. I did it all, and now I’m done.
We drove from San Francisco to the Big Sur Campground, about three hours south. First observation: To camp you must be willing to do an enormous amount of work that you wouldn’t need to do if you just stayed home in your house.
We had tents and sleeping bags, a medical kit, a cooler filled with food, bags of dry groceries, water, wool hats and gloves, layers of silk and wool and spare shoes, eyeglasses and medications. We brought wine and cheeses and salamis and bread and peanut butter and jelly.
We arrived at the campground in the late afternoon. Look at it through my eyes: a stunning expanse of land set among giant redwoods; a pictureperfect creek burbling around the perimeter of the campground; kids in rubber tubes floating by. But I expected wilderness, and we pitched our tents right next to cars and giant RVs. It was like sleeping in a parking lot, with a serious possibility of getting run over in the middle of the night.
We got the tents set up and put wood beside the fire pit and went off on a small hike. The smell of fresh pine trees was intoxicating, and I was really beginning to relax when I saw the posted sign warning about mountain lion attacks. It said that if a mountain lion leaps at you, try to look big. I wonder how one does that.
We hiked on. It was a walk that ended at a beach, a stunning landscape of rocks and crashing waves. Of course, no one can swim in the northern Pacific without a wetsuit, and the great whites are kind of a buzz kill, but the kids had fun on the beach.
Back at the campsite, we made a dinner plan. This being Northern California camping, we had a reservation at Nepenthe, a trendy restaurant a few miles away. Think $25 entrees. Set on a cliff over the sea, the place attracted elegant women driving expensive sports cars and men with just the right amount of shabby chic to disguise their immense wealth. It was as if the entire Silicon Valley was in Big Sur for the weekend. These people weren’t camping out unless it was at Clint Eastwood’s Carmel estate.
Back at the campsite, day was done. People were in their tents and RVs. I noticed it was dark. Not just dark but a total blackout, with just a sliver of moon in the sky over the trees. Where had I put my toothbrush? How would I brush my teeth? What if, heaven forbid, I had to go to the bathroom during the night? Turns out there were communal bathrooms and showers.
We slept, we ate well, we played in the creek and we toasted s’mores over our campfire. Still, I don’t get it. A campground does have some amenities, but it also has other people who cook smelly food and play music at night and bring their annoying dogs. The idea seems to be that you drag as much equipment — food and lights and tents and blow-up mattresses and portable stoves — as you can to make yourself comfortable when
Randi is on a brief leave. This column was originally published Aug. 29, 2013.
you could just stay home and not have to walk a quarter-mile in the dark to pee.
That’s the unromantic take on camping.
This is what I choose to remember: my four grandkids, sitting around the campfire at night, stuffing their faces with marshmallows and chocolate. They ask for a “Grandma Randi story” and I tell them one:
“Sabrina, Jacob, Elijah and Emi, when I tell you stories, they always begin the same way, with you four cousins, who love each other so much, going on an adventure. Well, kids, you’re living the story. Here you are together sleeping in a tent by a river. Put your arms around each other. This is a moment to remember.”
The next night, when we were gathered by the fire, they asked for another story, a “real” campfire story. “See that star up there next to the moon?” I said. “It’s actually a spaceship, and tonight, when you’re sleeping, it will land here next to our tents. Tiny aliens with enormous heads will lift the flap of your tent and carry you off to their planet, which happens to be made of ice cream.”
The grandkids looked giddy with excitement and fear. My work was done.
Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
RAnDi KREiss
i ’ll remember my four grandkids, sitting around the campfire at night.Daniel Rehman is the superintendent of the West Hempstead school district.
There is a need to acknowledge students’ diverse strengths and goals.DAniEl REhmAn
HERALD
Why supporting local news is so important
it’s called the Fourth Estate, a term used by journalists referring to their responsibilities and obligations as watchdogs of democracy, providing objective truth to the public they serve.
In a nation where we pride ourselves on freedoms, the First Amendment is the only line of defense newspapers — like this one — can rely on to maintain that Fourth Estate.
That’s why what happened in Kansas recently is so important. A small-town newspaper, the Marion County Record — not much different from this one — had its offices raided by police as part of an identity-theft investigation.
It’s not that media outlets work above the law — far from it. But raiding a newspaper office and retrieving materials that may have otherwise been protected under the First Amendment is something that can’t be done on a whim, and requires near-extraordinary circumstances.
This particular raid, according to reports, stemmed from a complaint by a local restaurant owner who felt that her privacy was violated when the Record uncovered her troubled driving record.
Police weren’t sure how the newspaper obtained the information on her 2008 drunken driving conviction, and concluded that it had to involve illegality of some sort. They said that the only way a reporter — or someone working with the reporter — could have obtained that information was by falsely claiming to be the restaurant owner. And if they did, they committed fraud.
But verifying information is what reporters do. Yes, they must use legal means, but a number of First Amendment advocates questioned whether there was enough probable cause against the newspaper to meet the extraordinarily high bar
Letters
WTC Health Program shouldn’t go begging
To the Editor:
of raiding the newsroom.
Eric Meyer, the publisher and editor of the Record, suspected the raid was retaliation for the paper’s coverage of the local police department, and may have even been an attempt to stall future reporting on the police chief. Instead, the raid — and the effort to justify it in light of nationwide criticism — has created new problems for law enforcement and prosecutors, whom we depend on to serve and protect all of us.
Newsroom raids are extremely rare thanks not only to First Amendment, but also the Privacy Protection Act of 1980, which prohibits law enforcement from searching or seizing information from reporters, with a few exceptions.
One of the exceptions is how an organization obtains its information, which is what law enforcement and prosecutors in Marion County claimed opened the door to the raid in the first place. In the initial fallout, those government officials defended the action, saying they had enough evidence to support it.
Yet less than a week after the raid, local prosecutors withdrew the search warrants and returned the seized items, determining that “insufficient evidence exists to establish a legally sufficient nexus between this alleged crime and the places searched and the items seized.”
Freedom of the press is a guaranteed right, and must be recognized by law enforcement agencies responsible for upholding our rights. The Founding Fathers made this protection explicit, because as Thomas Jefferson famously said, ”The basis of our government being the opinion of the people, the very first object should be to keep that right. And were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without news-
papers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”
The press must be allowed to work independent of government scrutiny. If a media outlet does violate the law, it should be prosecuted — but only in a way that keeps protections guaranteed by the First Amendment intact.
Otherwise, violations of the amendment not only threaten community newspapers like the Record, they also endanger democracy as a whole.
Reporters, armed only with an obligation to the truth, must be protected in carrying out their watchdog role, especially when it comes to investigating corruption or scandal. Journalists have a duty to hold public officials accountable, and without the protections of the First Amendment, they would be left to fend for themselves in the face of very powerful forces capable of changing anyone’s life forever.
We pity societies in which the press is not free. Where oppressive behavior like unjustified office raids is used by despots and dictators as a way to suppress knowledge and information from public view.
That’s why a threat to one local newspaper like the Marion County Record is a threat to all media. As reporters, we pride ourselves on our integrity — the only currency we have with you, our readers — and work hard to supply the news coverage you want and need to be engaged and informed.
Maybe law enforcement felt it truly was justified in its actions in Marion County. But in the end, it simply reminded us that our rights in the free society that is the United States are solely dependent on the people we put in place to govern us — and the independent media that exists to hold them truly accountable.
Re U.S. Rep. Andrew Garbarino’s op-ed piece last week, “It’s time to deliver on our promise to never forget”: The funding for the World Trade Center Health Program should be a slam drunk. But during these times, is it?
President Biden has requested an additional $25 billion from Congress for Ukraine, for a total of $135 billion since the war began. Funding provided by the American taxpayer, who just pays, but has no say.
The migrants arriving each day have to be funded by someone. The American taxpayer will be funding this as well. Another example of pay, but have no say.
The WTC Health Program should not need begging to be funded. Our homeless, our veterans, and citizens in need should be our priority. You take care of your family first, and then reach out to others.
A get-together of Republican all-stars
recently I was privileged to attend a reunion dinner, which Nassau County Republican Chairman Joe Cairo hosted at King Umberto’s Restaurant, in Elmont, for former Town of Hempstead councilmen and supervisors who served at various times over the past half century. The town, whose population of almost 800,000 makes it the largest township in America, has always been the base of the Nassau GOP’s support and success. As county chairman, Cairo has done an outstanding job leading the party to repeated victories over the past several years. These successes include winning back the North Hempstead supervisor’s position for the first time in more than three decades; the offices of county executive, district attorney and comptroller; three State Senate seats in Albany; and congressional seats in Washington. These victories, in a county where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans, brought about Cairo’s election as New York’s national committeeman.
I believe much of his success as county chairman is attributable to the knowledge and experience he has acquired over his many years in politics and govern-
ment — particularly his service as a councilman on the Hempstead Town Board beginning in 1975. The board was known for working together, getting the job done and realizing that good government is good politics. I was elected councilman in 1977, and served until I was elected county comptroller in 1981.
Those attending the reunion dinner included:
■ Al D’Amato, who served as the town’s receiver of taxes, supervisor and presiding supervisor before his election to the U.S. Senate.
■ Leo McGinity, who was elected councilman in 1969 before being appointed to the bench in 1976 and ultimately serving as an associate justice in the Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court.
■ Jim Bennet, Greg Peterson and Rich Guardino, all of whom served as councilmen and supervisor.
■ Pat Zagarino, who served as councilman.
■ Bruce Blakeman, who was a councilman before being elected our current county executive.
This was a truly great evening of not just sharing stories and reminiscing, but getting input and advice from these pros after Cairo detailed the recent successes
Letters
Charity begins at home, yet in our country, our self-serving representatives have it butt backward.
TONY GIAMETTA OceansideAppointments or special elections?
To the Editor:
Re the editorial “Replace appointments with special elections (Aug. 17-23): The editors imply but don’t state the essential problem: The public perception that “equal justice” is undermined by our process for selecting judges. The only good sign may be that, last time, all parties offered the same candidates. This suggests some pre-election selection by insiders, making “local control” a sham. It need not be so, because it shows a path forward.
Selection by appointment risks partisan interference by those empowered to choose. But party control is threatened by elections, because they’re a gamble. Elections can be distorted by money, incumbency, and popularity over professionalism. All administrations, and all of
their opponents, have a motive to game the system.
A greater problem with elections is that, for voters, life gets in the way. The average citizen’s time for politics is limited by work, family and other commitments. Often there’s little available information about candidates, and the growing fog of misinformation also limits effective participation, depressing turnout and giving the advantage to insiders and partisan influences.
The ideal of “local control” may never be attained, but we can do better. I suggest a pool and random selection model. Make choices comparable with specific, relevant criteria. Candidates’ credentials, experience, performance record, and perhaps health and any potential conflicts, would provide a common base for evaluation. Extreme views are likely to be revealed, as are any obviously weak candidates.
All applicants would be vetted first by our professionals, who would all affirm acceptance of several candidates as “qualified.” Their ability to do so has been demonstrated. Those accepted would have their resumes published, with time for public, and press, comment. Transparency promotes engagement.
and the challenges ahead in the fastchanging world of politics and government.
Certainly, times have changed. Aside from Blakeman, none of us served on the board during a time of pervasive social media. Also, while politics was always a tough business, and stories of the “good old days” are usually exaggerated, there was nothing then like today’s bitter partisanship. Yet the underlying governmental and political precepts of those days are still meaningful: quick responsiveness to local governmental issues and problems, a strong year-round presence in the community, and doorto-door campaigning by candidates and local committeemen and women.
Most important, government officials should always be taking the political pulse of their constituents, and not be swayed by the media or elitist opinion makers. That was true then, and is just as true today, as was proven in the past two election cycles, in which Democrats’ advocacy of misguided proposals, such as bail reform and defunding the police, paved the way for Republican victories and devastating defeats for the Democrats in Nassau County.
Because those issues were largely ignored by the mainstream media, however, Republican candidates would not have prevailed without extensive paid
media advertising, a large social media presence and the unmatched Nassau GOP ground game of direct mail to voters, targeted telephone campaign calls, door-to-door distribution of campaign literature and saturation walk-throughs. All this was overseen and coordinated by Cairo, using the feedback he got from candidates and local campaign workers as well as polling results from campaign consultants such as John McLaughlin.
As I’ve said, much has changed in the Town of Hempstead and in Nassau County over the years, including demographics, party registration and the reality that so many households now have two working spouses. What Cairo and the county Republican organization have done is update and modernize the same methods of year-round hard work and attention to constituent needs and beliefs to achieve political and governmental success. That was certainly the conclusion of the “oldtimers” who attended the reunion dinner.
Nothing in politics is easy or guaranteed, and you can never afford to rest on your laurels, but we are confident that with Cairo at the helm, the Nassau GOP will remain the most effective and responsive political organization in the nation.
One additional lesson I learned is to take the same vitamins as Judge McGinity, who at age 96 is as sharp, alert and mobile as any of us!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
Finally, the selection from this group, which should be a manageable four to six qualified judges, would be done by the public. The “gamble” element provides some insulation against insider/partisan interference, is “fair” and should boost a general sense of legitimacy.
Otherwise, if there is to be a special election, ranked-choice ballots should be used, after the process described above, also with at least four candidates per seat.
Celebrating a number of victories, from Hempstead to Washington, for the party.
