Nassau Herald 07-13-2023

HERALD Nassau

All the news of the Five Towns

BBQ with the Kiwanis Club

Page 23

Hoping kids bond on the Buddy Bench

Creating a space where children can make friends

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

How can children bond and make friends?

Next to the playground at Franklin Early Childhood Center is what former Hewlett-Woodmere school district Superintendent Bert Nelson hopes will be the answer: a Buddy Bench.

Donated by Nelson and his children, the bench is designed to be welcoming for students who feel left out on the playground and in need of companionship.

ConTinued on pAge 14

Benjamin ‘Benoir’ Metzger, who is familiar to many in Long Beach, has brought his musical skills to the Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway.

Metzger is jamming at HAFTR

Bringing music to yeshiva from a short drive away

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Benjamin Metzger is familiar to many in the Long Beach arts scene where he lives. He is known mainly by his stage name, Benoir, but to students at Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway, he is Mr. Metzger, music educator.

Metzger, 50, attended shul growing up, and recalls his love of music developing as he listened to Jewish music — a cultural experience similar to that of his students.

“That’s what enabled me to connect with the students at HAFTR Middle School,” he said.

He was approached by Jenny Feygin, a 2005 graduate of the high school and a pianist, who said there weren’t enough quality music programs at HAFTR when she was a student.

“She told me that there was a real lack of music in the school system,” Metzger recalled.

“In HAFTR and in the Five Towns in general, that some of these schools have been without a music program for years. I was interested at this moment in my life.”

ConTinued on pAge 13

aimed to create a natural way of making friends

recess.

Courtesy Ben Metzger

Courtesy Julie Robeson Bert nelson and his wife, Carol, on the Franklin early Childhood Center’s newest addition to the playground, a Buddy Bench,

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The philosopher Epictetus said “Men are disturbed not by events, but by the views they take of them.” Arising out of “The Good Life”, previously reviewed here, comes the W.I.S.E.R. model for reacting to emotionally challenging situations.

Watch. Initial impressions are powerful but may be incomplete. There is usually more to see. When the impression and the emotional response start to interact, take a moment to pause and thoughtfully observe the situation to prevent a potentially harmful reflexive response. As they say in psychiatry “Don’t just do something, sit there.”

Interpret. We are all seeing the world through our own eyes -- what is happening, why it is happening and how it affects us. Our reality is not necessarily that of others. Thinking that a situation is all about us often leads to misunderstanding. When your emotions start to bubble up, it indicates you have something important at stake -- a goal, an insecurity or a vital relationship. Figuring out what’s at stake will allow you to interpret the situation better.

Select. Having watched, interpreted and re-interpreted, you must select your response. Instead of reacting reflexively out of stress, slowing down allows us to choose from more options. As “The Good Life” says “Given what’s at stake and the resources at my disposal, what can I do in this situation? What would be a good outcome here? And what is the likelihood that things will go well if I respond this way instead of that way?”

Engage. Now you are ready to respond more purposefully -- aligning with who you are and what you want to accomplish. You’ve observed and interpreted the situation, taken some time to consider the possibilities and their likelihood of success, and you then execute your strategy.

Reflect. “How did that work out? Did I make things better or worse? Have I learned something new about the challenge I’m facing and about the best response? Reflecting on our response to a challenge can yield dividends for the future. It’s in learning from experience that we fully grow wiser.”

Koffsky in STEM Sisterhood

Woodmere resident Sophia Koffsky is one of 15 first-year engineering and computer science students at Hofstra University who took part in a summer program with the goal to give women a head start in their STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers by learning more about potential professions and fields of study.

The Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a program for female first-year students called the Women’s Summer Program in Computing/Engineering.

Through hands-on projects, classroom demonstrations, and off-campus field trips, students are exposed to many fields, associated degrees, and careers in industrial, mechanical, environmental, and civil engineering as well as computer sciences.

“Nurturing and supporting a diverse and inclusive student community is one of our top priorities,” said Sina Rabbany, DeMatteis’s dean.

The American Society for Engineering Education has recognized the school for its dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Pia Cameron, a woman from Kingston, Jamaica, majoring in computer engineering, is aware of the struggles faced by and advancements made by women in STEM.

“My grandma was an engineer,” Cameron said. “It was really hard for her because women weren’t really accepted that much — especially Black women. So, I like how everything is evolving and women are more accepted.”

Many students said the program fosters a sense of community and camaraderie that is vital for women in STEM.

“There’s not a lot of women in engineering,” said Stella Sourelos, a computer engineering major. “To get to know other girls here is very inclusive and a good opportunity.”

Students developed robotic cars during the mechanical engineering portion of the program, then tested them on a track.

Adjunct professor Gozde Ustuner, who led that week’s activities said, “Having a full week of specialized instruction allows the group to learn by doing — and figuring things out together. They were able to troubleshoot and make adjustments based on results, not grades or professor feedback. It really teaches them to think like engineers.”

The five-week program spanned from May 30 to June 30. Monday through it was six hours and on Friday three hours. Students that take part are given a $2,500 stipend to help with any expenses.

For more information, go to Bit. Ly/3NKdCgC. — Tayla Lippman

Courtesy W-SPiCE

Sophia Koffsky. Far right, from Woodmere, took part in summer STEM program at Hofstra University.

Depression: An equal opportunity illness guest column

People often think if only I was successful and had no money worries, I’d be the happiest person on earth. Yet, you can have fame, fortune, friends, a loving family and still be depressed. Those with wealth and status are not immune to depression. Indeed, they may even be more prone to it.

Why should this be so? The adage that money doesn’t buy happiness is true — unless you’re desperately poor. Then reaching a basic standard of living does lead to reduced stress and worries that can increase the chance for happiness. However, having money is no protection from becoming depressed.

But how then can people who have everything be depressed? What could be their problem? Like many things in life, it’s complicated.

You may present a joyous spirit when you’re with others, yet be plagued with feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy when you’re alone.

You may be flexible with many ideas, yet remain rigid about detesting your deficiencies and defects.

You may be creative with finding solutions to other people’s problems, but be blind to finding solutions to your own problems.

You may be amusing and entertaining at social gatherings, yet be unable to talk yourself out of feeling depressed when you’re alone.

You can appreciate the adoration you receive, yet be fearful about letting others down.

You can enjoy everything you have, yet expect more from yourself because of all you have.

When you’re living in a rarified atmosphere, it’s hard to admit or recognize that you’re depressed. How can you complain

of feeling down, worthless or guilty when you’re an icon of success to many others? Hence, you mask your depression with alcohol, drugs and/or fast living, waving off others’ concerns about how you’re living life.

If you’re a highly functional person, it’s difficult to humble yourself to seek help, especially when waves of depression eventually pass. It’s tough to admit that you think about killing yourself when so many others look up to you.

But depression is an illness not only reserved for the rich and famous; it’s an equalopportunity illness that expresses itself in different ways. You may not be able to get out of bed in the morning, or you may not be able to stay calm enough to get into bed at night. You may be quite well off financially, or you may be struggling to pay the bills.

The bottom line… if you’re depressed, it’s vital that you seek treatment. If you suspect that a friend or family member might be depressed, open up a respectful dialogue. Listen to what s/he says. Suggest treatment if you suspect depression. That’s a far better alternative than one evening receiving that dreadful, terrifying call that will haunt you for the rest of your days.

“Every man has his secret sorrows which the world knows not; and often times we call a man cold when he is only sad.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

©2023

person to person news brief

Linda Sapadin, Ph.D. is a psychologist and success coach in private practice who spe cializes in helping people overcome selfdefeating patterns of behavior. You can reach her at DrSapadin@aol.com. Visit her website at www.PsychWisdom.com.

Five Towners succeed in the classroom

Allison Kornbluth, an applied psychology major at SUNY Canton from Atlantic Beach, earned part-time honors for the spring semester. The award recognizes students who earned at least a 3.25 gradepoint average, while taking six to 11 credits hours of coursework.

Hewlett residents Brianna Kovit and Max May were among the more than 500 students who graduated from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pa. May was also named to the spring semester dean’s list.

Kovit was magna cum laude and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in media and communication with a minor in public health. May also graduated magna cum laude and attained a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science.

Shahood Ahman, from Hewlett, and Vickie Evola, of Woodmere, were named to the Lehigh University spring semester dean’s list. Students must attain a 3.6 GPA or higher and carry at least 12 hours of graded courses.

On the Muhlenberg College spring semester dean’s list are Fletcher Good man, of Hewlett, and Julia Gueli, from Woodmere. Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher are eligible for the honor.

Jardina Gomez, from Inwood, was named to the Siena College spring semes ter dean’s list. Students must have GPA between 3.5 and 3.89 to earn the honor.

Atlantic Beach resident Vince Incanta lupo earned a Bachelor of Science degree in commerce and business administra tion from the University of Alabama.

Linda Sapadin

Nassau Athletics HOF class announced

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

The Nassau County High School Athletics Hall of Fame will hold its 2023 induction ceremony Sept. 28 at the Crest Hollow County Club. For more information and tickets, go to SectionVIII. org. Here’s a list of local athlete honorees.

ROBERT ALABASTER

A man for all seasons, he played five sports at Baldwin starting in 1929. He was a three-time All-Scholastic football lineman and also a starter on the basketball, baseball, swimming and track teams. Won the county backstroke title in swimming.

RON ATANASIO

Regarded as one of the greatest Nassau County soccer players of all-time. Led Oceanside to three consecutive county and Long Island championships and starred on the Sailors’ 18-0 team in 1973 that outscored opponents 99-4.

THERESE DEVLIN

Among the best distance runners in Nassau history while at Wantagh and two-time state champion in the 1500 meters. She was the first female named Gatorade’s New York State track and field player of the year in 1986. She went on to star at Dartmouth and competed in the 1992 Olympic Trials.

BILLY DONOVAN

A Rockville Centre native, he played on championship basketball teams at St. Agnes and earned All-Long Island honors as a senior in 1983. Played collegiately at Providence and helped the Friars reach the Final Four. Thirdround pick of Utah Jazz in 1987 NBA Draft. Coached Florida to 467 wins, including a pair of NCAA titles. Current head coach of the Chicago Bulls.

ARTHUR DUNN

A tremendous distance runner at Sewanhaka and the first in the state to place in the top 10 four times in cross country. He won state championships in 1953 and 1954.

D’BRICKASHAW FERGUSON

Generational football player at Freeport who won the Thorp and Martone Awards as Nassau’s best player and linemen. Helped the Red Devils to a Long Island title as a junior. Starred at the University of Virginia and in the NFL for 10 seasons with the New York Jets. A member of the Jets “Ring of Honor.”

PETER HENNING

Long Island’s and New York State’s first wrestling champion. Wantagh’s Henning won the 98-pound title in 1963. After losing his opening match that season, he ripped off 25 straight victories on the way to the historic state crown.

EAMON MCENEANEY

A three-sport star at Sewanhaka (1973 grad)

who was a fearless football player despite his 5-foot-10, 155-pound frame. Also one of the greatest high school and college lacrosse players in state history, he led Cornell to two NCAA titles.

ANNIE PARK

She was forced to play on the boys’ golf team at MacArthur because there was no girls’ team. It didn’t matter. She became the top golfer in Nassau, beating all the boys and winning the county championship in 2012. Won the NCAA women’s title a year later while helping the University of Southern California capture the team championship.

DICK POILLON

A three-sport star at Valley Stream Central in the 1930s. Excelled in football and also played basketball and baseball. After playing college football at Canisius, he earned a spot on the roster of the then-Washington Redskins.

CLIFTON SMITH

Gatorade’s New York state football Player of the Year in 1988, Smith was a Thorp Award winner and also a finalist as a star linebacker for Freeport. He also played basketball and lacrosse. Was a standout at Syracuse and played in the NFL for Washington and Cleveland.

KEVIN SHIPPOS

An outstanding football player and wrestler at Baldwin, the 1997 grad was a two-time AllCounty fullback/linebacker and a three-time county wrestling champ and a one-time state champ. He also won the 215-pound national wrestling championship.

FRANK TASHMAN

A football and lacrosse standout at Sewanhaka, he teamed with future Heisman Trophy winner and Nassau Hall of Famer Vinny Testaverde to bring the school a county title in 1979 and unbeaten season in 1980. Tashman had 118 points as a senior lacrosse attackman.

NICHOLAS TINTLE

Rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2002 to help MacArthur capture its first-ever county football title. He then rushed for over 2,000 yards as a senior. One of the top lacrosse players in the state and earned Nassau Midfielder of the Year honors in 2004.

AL WILLIAMS

One of the greatest athletes of all-time at Hempstead. A four-year starter on the basketball court and three-year starting quarterback on the gridiron. Under his direction, the Tigers went 8-0 in 1967 and outscored the competition 245-46.

JAMES ZAFFUTO

A record-setting lacrosse player at Elmont, the 1977 grad set multiple Nassau scoring records that have stood for 45 years. Holds career records for points (498) and assists (288.) Played on three NCAA championship title teams at Johns Hopkins.

Photos courtesy Nassau Boces Athletics ROckvILLE cENTRE’S BILLY Donovan starred as a basketball player at St. Agnes and Providence College, as well as a coach on the collegiate and NBA levels.

MacaRThuR gRaduaTE aNNIE Park won the Nassau County golf championship, beating all the boys, in 2012, and also an NCAA title while at USC.

Fertig gains a new commissioner term

Unofficial results for the Sanitary District 1 election show incumbent Avi Fertig leading.

Fertig gained 230 votes in an unopposed election on July 10.

Fertig, who is seeking re-election on the fivemember commissioner board, has served as one over the last three years after the death of longtime Commissioner Harry Beltrani.

An advocate for additional services to the community such as Shredding Day, Fertig was one of the driving forces to bring it back twice this year when the service was halted because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Courtesy Avi Fertig Avi Fertig leads with an unofficial 230 votes in an unopposed election.

Senior health expo geared for young at heart

The Sunny Atlantic Beach Club opened its doors June 28 to eager guests for Herald Community Newspapers’ Senior Health & Beyond Expo presented by UnitedHealthcare and produced by RichnerLive. It was the third in a series of expos designed especially for senior citizens this year.

More than 35 diverse businesses as well as innovative services shared their products and refined knowledge with attendees to improve wellness and heighten their lifestyle.

Free on-site health screenings were provided by Mount Sinai South Nassau as well as vaccines administered by Parker Jewish. There were also hearing screenings from Dr. Lawrence Cardano of Hearing Center of Long Island — who was also one of the speakers on the expo’s afternoon panel.

Goody bags and tons of raffles were also a plus for those making their way to Atlantic Beach.

The event was made possible thanks to Gold Sponsor Otsuka and gift bag sponsors Grandell Rehabilitation & Nursing Center and Oceanside Care Center. Silver Sponsors were Beach Terrace Care Center, Parker Jewish Institute Health Care and Rehabilitation, Long Beach Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Aetna, CenterLight and Hearing Center of Long Island.

The next expo is coming up fast — Thursday, Sept. 7, at the East Meadow Jewish Center. It runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For more information, Visit RichnerLive.com.

1. Dr. Lawrence Cardano, middle, takes with Omar and Sandy about what the Hearing Center of Long Island can offer them.

2. Jacqueline Garguilo and Frank Garguilo, owners of Bikram Yoga Long Beach, showed some relaxing poses.

3. Nancy Lebron from presenting sponsor UnitedHealthcare was the keynote speaker.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

–Alexa Anderwkavich

4. Josh Herzing and Taylor Malfin from Beach Terrace Care Center were among those attending.

5. Cori Hoberman, community marketer from Long Beach Rehabilitation & Nursing

6. Pablo Rendon of Parker Jewish shares some expertise as a panelist.

7. Jill Wassner from the state public services department, offers advice.

8. Sabrina Osmani from Sunharbor Manor chats with an attendee

9. Na Zhang, Abigail Fromm and Lisa SperlingLeicht at the Mount Sinai South Nassau table.

10. Mark Legaspi of Aetna, shares some of his expertise

11. Allison Burton from Otsuka was one of the several great business leaders to come out.

12. Shaun Ruskin from Centerlight discusses PACE eligibility.

High-performing heart care, right here on the South Shore.

Get superior cardiac care at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside.

Our comprehensive care includes the latest diagnostic testing, and expertise in minimally invasive treatments—making us a top choice for Long Islanders seeking help with heart conditions.

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Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassauheart

What’s up next door and around the corner

HERALD neighbors

‘Tarzan’ helps HWLL softballers swing

Dave Lemanczyk played nine seasons in the major leagues for three American League teams, but for many more years the former player who was nicknamed “Tarzan” has been instructing ballplayers.

Lemanczyk brought his baseball expertise to Grant Park on July 7 as he offered up guidance and tips on batting, fielding and pitching to girls playing softball with the Hewlett-Woodmere Little League.

The right-handed pitcher played for the Detroit Tigers, Toronto Blue Jays and California Angles. He was an All Star in 1979 with the Blue Jays.

— Jeffrey Bessen

on proper positioning as former

instruction.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Hewlett-Woodmere Little League softball players take part in a fielding drill overseen by former major leaguer Dave Lemanczyk in Grant Park on July 7.

Shortstop Alyssa Reich works on technique under Dave Lemanczyk’s watchful eyes.

Pitcher Coralia Savin works

MLB player Dave Lemanczyk provides

Dave Lemanczyk offers up his ball playing expertise to Hewlett-Woodmere Little League softballers.

’You gotta problem with that?’

My goodness, but there are an awful lot of problems.

There are health problems, political problems, financial, plumbing and social problems.

There are big problems and little problems, mechanical problems and emotional problems.

Everyday we encounter computer problems, ethical problems and attitude problems. Individuals have personal problems, industry has personnel problems, cities have crime problems and nations (and the nervous) have (in) security problems.

Some have mental problems, others stomach problems, and still more have problems getting up in the morning.

There are problem children and problem areas. There are stressrelated problems and work related problems, and “being related” problems.

Some have problems seeing, some have problems hearing, some have problems listening and some have

problems understanding what they’re seeing, hearing or (not really) listening to.

Personally, I hate math problems, but revel in legal problems, as my accountant enjoys a good tax problem and my architect savors a structural problem.

Teachers have problem students, eaters have weight problems and merchants have business problems.

The shy have a problem communicating, while the poor have a problem making ends meet and the grouchy just are the problem.

staying awake and the surprised have a problem collecting their thoughts.

Unreserved Judgment

The guilty have a problem looking at themselves in the mirror, while the unsure have a problem making a decision or choosing where to go or what to be.

Meanwhile procrastinators have a problem getting started, the rebellious have a problem with authority and the gossip has a problem keeping quiet.

Ron Goldman

Sometimes there’s a problem on the field, sometimes in the home and sometimes on the road as we’re challenged by traffic problems or problems finding a spot.

The tense have a problem falling asleep, the bored have a problem

Some problems are psychiatric, some problems are monumental and some problems are imaginary. Some are self-created, some are logistical while sometimes the problem is getting organized or getting going.

A few of us have a problem just fitting into our suits, while some have a problem just fitting in.

Ron Goldman Lawrence

There are problems of youth and the problems of aging; there are theoretical problems and practical problems; problems to face and problems to avoid.

But as my late mother always reminded us, since problems are a part of life, the meaningful goal is not to be spared the problems, but rather to create, and be part of, the solutions. It’s a great approach that no one else has a problem with.

© Copyright 2023 Ron Goldman

Te achers have problem students, eaters have weight problems and merchants have business problems.

Students ask to perform in year-end concert

Feygin, who also lives in Long Beach and teaches classical piano, got to know Metzger through Arts in the Plaza, an art and live music event that takes place every Saturday from Memorial Day weekend through Halloween in Long Beach’s Kennedy Plaza.

“I wanted these kids to have what I didn’t have,” Feygin said. So she met a number of times with HAFTR Middle School Principal Joshua Gold a year ago and pitched the idea of a music program to him. She also talked with public school teachers in the area, and took notes on how the program would work at the middle school.

“I knew HAFTR needed a one-stop shop, like they’re going to start with someone who can do it all,” Feygin said. “Ben came to mind. He’s like the face of music in Long Beach.”

Metzger went to school in the Sachem district, where he tried a number of instruments, starting with the baritone horn in fourth grade — despite the fact that his first choice was the drums.

As an eighth-grader, he switched to alto saxophone, and once he started classes at Sachem High School, he joined an after-school rock program.

At the University of Miami in Florida, he auditioned three times to earn admission to the music performance program.

He joined Pharoah’s Daughter, a Jewish fusion band, in the late 1990s. The group performed around the country, and played at a Jewish music festival in 2001 at Queen Elizabeth Hall in London.

Metzger has performed at locations around New York City, including Lincoln Center, Joe’s Pub and the Knit-

ting Factory in Brooklyn.

When he moved to Long Beach, his apartment doubled as his studio, Studio Noir, where he offered one-onone lessons, until he opened his second one, Studio Noir

East, on Magnolia Avenue.

Feygin provided Gold 10-15 musician friends/ colleague that she knew and devised a trial program for elementary and middle school students bringing Metzger along.

The class, which focused on musical fundamentals such as identifying instruments and reading notes, began in February, during lunch periods. The first class attracted over 20 elementary students and nearly 10 from the middle school.

Near the end of the school year, the students asked Metzger if they could perform what they had learned in a concert, and he agreed. At the June 16 performance for parents at the elementary school, students played a Shabbat song and the Israel national anthem, “Hatikvah,” that Metzger said had an acoustical twist to it.

As he looks back on what he learned in the program’s inaugural year and plans ahead, he hopes to bring more songs and instruments — and more fellow teachers. This year, one of them was Five Towns native Ivy Landsman, a singer and songwriter who also teaches at Studio Noir with Metzger.

Landsman described the experience of working with the students as thrilling. “I loved it, and I got very close with them,” she said. “They all did their best. Some people were playing around and then, near the end, they were asking for help and rose to the occasion. It was just so wonderful.”

During the final concert, Landsman said, all the work she and Metzger did with the children filled her with emotion. “I felt so great, I was like, crying,” she recounted.

“They were like my little kids, and they really rose to it. I can’t wait until next year.

Courtesy Jenny Feygin

Jenny feygin, left, with Benjamin metzger after they launched an orchestral program at Hebrew academy of the f ive towns and rockaway.

Former superintendent, family donate bench

“The idea of the buddy bench is to sit down and wait for someone to join you and start a conversation,” Nelson said. “It’s really a nice, easy, natural way to connect with one another and to interact in a very natural environment for children.”

Nelson was the district’s superintendent from 1982 to 1998, and helped create the early-childhood center based on research conducted by Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget. Piaget’s four-step theory of cognitive development details the changes in children’s intelligence as they grow. Nelson focused on the second step, the “preoperational” stage, in which a pair of 7-year-olds might use symbols to represent words, images and ideas.

“I wondered whether we would better serve the younger children if we brought them all together instead of spreading them around,” he recalled. “There were four elementary schools in the earlier days. With the creation of Franklin Early Childhood Center, we were able to focus on what the needs of the kids were.”

This past school year, the district celebrated its 125th anniversary, and the center marked 40 years.

“You look back over a career and you ask, how did it go? What do I feel very proud of?” Nelson said. “Well, the creation of the early-childhood center is something I’m proud about. There are children who are second or third generation in their family who are now in an early-childhood center that didn’t exist.”

The bench, however, was not Nelson’s idea. His children came up with it.

“I’m inspired by my dad and I’m just proud to say it,” his daughter Julie Robeson, a member of the Hewlett High School Class of 1984, said. “I’m always talking about my dad and my childhood, and because of it, I became a teacher.”

Robeson, who now lives in Florida after retiring from teaching, said the idea for the bench arose because she and her siblings, Adam and Rebecca, also teachers, are all about children’s inclusivity. They presented the idea to their dad as an 80th birthday gift last August, along with a song they had written, which they called “A Bench for Dad.”

The idea and the song, Robeson said, made her father tear up. “He kind of had

a little tear in his eye,” she said. “So we’re like, ‘We did a good job.’”

That same month, she got in contact with the center’s secretary, Dolores Pugliese, who said that the staff loved the idea. Though Robeson had never attended, she knew how important the center was to her father.

The bench was installed last month, and Robeson and her siblings were there with their father, who still lives in

Hewlett.

“On behalf of the district, I would like to thank Dr. Nelson and his family for this wonderful addition to the Franklin Early Childhood Center landscape,” Ralph Marino Jr., the current superintendent of Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, said. “For years to come, this special Buddy Bench will encourage our youngest students to embrace kindness and friendship.”

Courtesy Julie Robeson on the Buddy Bench to Bert nelson’s right is his daughter rebecca. Standing are son adam and daughter Julie robeson.

There are children who are second or third generation in their family who are now in an earlychildhood center that didn’t exist.

Ber T NelsoN former HewlettWoodmere superintendent

STEPPING OUT

Action along the midway

A bustling scene at the

STEPPING OUT

Creative advocacy

By Karen Bloom

Cotton candy, zeppole, the ubiquitous Ferris wheel. Of course, it must be time for the fair. That summertime staple is back again, taking over the Nassau Coliseum grounds, through July 16.

By Karen Bloom

Circus-type spectacle, an old-school “oddity” sideshow, exotic animals, along with plenty of thrill rides for all ages and midway action, all combine for an extravaganza that entices all ages.

Step right up everyone: The Royal Hanneford Circus carries forth with time-honored circus traditions refreshed for the 21st century. Producers Adrian Poema and Nellie Hanneford Poema — along with their four talented children, Catherine, Mariana, Adrian Jr., and Tommy — are focused on bringing a fresh new take on circus arts under the Big Top.

The Hanneford Family, long considered the “Royal Family of the Circus,” can rightly claim an unbroken span of circus history fast approaching three centuries. Beginning with Edwin Hanneford in the late 1600s to the present, they have consistently amazed, amused, thrilled and delighted audiences everywhere with their exploits and skilled acts. From aerial high-wire feats, to illusionists, freestyle motocross, the human cannonball, the big cats, and more — this surely is an edge-of-your-seat experience.

Film Expo

out the red carpet once again for the Long Island International Film Expo, now in its 26th year. LIIFE is proud to present 133 films — 75 of them from New York filmmakers, and 30 of them by Long Islanders. Even more statistics of note: LIIFE World premieres, five U.S. premieres, short- to feature-length, moviegoers can partake of a diverse group of 156 independent films this year include: ‘1,000 Years A Witness,’ to their youth; ‘Across,’ in which three young American World War II

widows take a day trip to celebrate the younger sister’s bittersweet engagement, when a corrosive and dangerous secret from the past reemerges; ‘The Concertgoer,’ the tale of a couple who, when finding the Shostakovich concert they had planned to see is sold out, are guided to an obscure garden where they find the elusive concertgoer, silent and still, lying on a brick slab.

Wednesday through Sunday, July 19-23. Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore. Tickets and information available at LongIslandFilm.com.

Pat McGann

Comic showcase

Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale

• Now through July 16, 5-11 p.m. weekdays; noon-11 p.m.

• Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, South Campus, Hempstead. For information and to RSVP, call (516) 463-5672, or visit Hofstra.edu/museum

Saturday and Sunday

• $10 (free for kids under 36 inches tall with paying adult); unlimited ride wristbands (for riders 36 inches and taller) are $35, $40 FridaySunday.

“When We All Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines the collective power of the arts in society.

Curated by Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and collection — the exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence.

• Ride tickets are also available at the carnival for $1.50 each, $30/20 tickets, or $60/50 tickets plus 1 free ride (rides take 2 or more tickets each)

More animal antics can be found at Eudora Farms Exotic Petting Zoo, where kids can get up-close and personal with a variety of exotic animals from the four corners of the globe. Kids can meet and greet the animals — and feed them.

Be sure to check out the World of Wonders sideshow, new to the fair this year. Visit the colorful tent and be drawn into the scene involving 10 sideshow acts, under the watchful eye of Tommy Breen — aka The Great Gozleone. Sword swallower extraordinaire, his antics are boundless, including fire-eating and stunts with a guillotine that are not for the faint of heart.

“It highlights the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that promise equality and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” Giordano says. “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be ignored. The artists in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art and activism on issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, voting rights, racial bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making of art with public service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their communities and the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to stand with them.”

“When I was 14, I decided I wanted to run away with the sideshow,” Breen says. “I started teaching myself sword swallowing and some other stunts out of the back of a book I found. I didn’t think there still were

This exhibit, which runs through July 28, is in conjunction with Hofstra’s 13th presidential conference on the Barack Obama presidency coming up in April.

sideshows around, I figured I could perform in bars with bands or something. But then, when I graduated college, I saw Ward Hall was hiring for his World of Wonders show. I was shocked it was still on the road and that I had the chance to work for the King of the Sideshow. So, I quit my job and got rid of my apartment and joined the carnival. It was what I had always daydreamed about, and once I got here, I just never left.”

Breen proudly carries on the sideshow tradition, with his fellow sideshow folk.

Strongwoman Luella Lynne emcees the show and astounds visitors with feats of strength, bending metal, ripping phone books, and breaking metal chains with her bare hands. Other “talents” include Sam Rezz, who performs with hula hoops, needle swallowing and contact juggling. And don’t miss out on Lucy Lovett, the electric lady, with her painproof woman act.

And, of course, don’t miss out on the rides. The midway features plenty of attractions that all ages will enjoy, including the Dream Wheel (one of the largest Ferris wheels on the fair circuit), the Grand Carousel, Super Cyclone roller coaster, Wacky Worm family roller coaster, Storybook Fun House, super slide, and bumper cars.

And, yes, in case you’re wondering, you can still take a spin in those tea cups. Some things never go out of style.

“We were interested in the idea that the artist has a civic responsibility,” says museum director Karen Albert. “The initial idea for this exhibition was inspired by an Obama Administration White House briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, where more than 60 artists and creative organizers met with administration officials to

Pat McGann is quickly rising as one of the sharpest stand-ups on the comedy scene. A relative latecomer to comedy, he began doing standup at 31 after realizing he was not very good at selling packaging. He hustled his way to become the house emcee at Zanies Chicago, where he distinguished himself as especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father of three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage. In 2017, McGann began touring as the opening act for Sebastian Maniscalco, moving with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square Garden. McGann’s relatively short, but impressive resume, includes Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival, and more. McGann still calls Chicago home.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Laugh the night away at Mom’s Night Out, presented by Long Island Comedy Festival. You’ll enjoy witty standup delivered by four clever comics. Ellen Karis, known as the ‘Greek Goddess of Comedy,’ performs at venues throughout North America. She’s described as the ‘little dynamo’ given her petite stature, strong improv skills and ability to build a quick rapport with any audience. New York City-born and raised in a traditional strict Greek home, her brand of sarcastic, observational humor is along the same lines as comedy legends Joan Rivers and Richard Lewis. She’s joined by Maria Walsh, ‘America’s Naughtiest Mommy,’ whose quick wit, combined with coordinating facial expressions, give her a memorable and commanding stage presence. Kendra Cunningham, a Boston native who absconded to New York to peruse performing, who whines too much in her dreams. And Maureen Langan, acclaimed for her high-energy, versatile style that highlights her warmth and razor-edge repartee.

Thursday, July 20, 8 p.m. $35$40. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or MadisonTheatreNY.org.

Photos courtesy Empire State Fair

From daring sideshow acts featuring fire-eating to circus spectacle and everyone’s favorite rides, plus new enticements, plenty of summer amusements await at the latest edition of the Empire State Fair.

Can art change the world? It’s a question that’s been at the focus of our collective culture for centuries. Now as society navigates the complexities of modern life, art as a path for social change is at the forefront of artistic expression.

July 27

Life Science of Summer

July 21

The folk rocker is back on tour, appearing on the Tilles Center stage, Friday and Saturday, July 21-22, 8 p.m. Singer, songwriter, producer, activist, humanitarian, best-selling author — Brandi Carlile has done it all. Since the release of her breakthrough album “By The Way, I Forgive You in 2018,” Carlile has won Grammy Awards, earned Billboard’s Women in Music Trailblazer Award, and received several Americana Music Association accolades. She won her seventh, eighth and ninth Grammys this year, winning for best Americana album with ”In These Silent Days.” Her song “Broken Horses,” won both best rock song and best rock performance. A versatile performer hailed by Billboard for her “impressive vocal range” and “captivating presence,” Carlile has topped the Americana and Rock charts with solo hits, co-founded the country supergroup The Highwomen, and collaborated with legendary artists including Elton John, Alicia Keys, Dolly Parton, and Miley Cyrus. Don’t miss an evening of iconic songs such as “The Story,” “That Wasn’t Me,” and “The Joke.” Seemingly everywhere, Carlisle has transitioned from an Americana powerhouse to a major headliner beloved by the industry and the public. Carlile’s career has been on a steep upward trajectory and her “Bramily” has her fans are known, are with her every step of the way. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets are $51.50-$481.50; available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

On exhibit

View the landmark exhibition “Modigliani and the Modern Portrait,” opening at Nassau County Museum of Art, Saturday, July 22. 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) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Kids ages 6-9 can tour Old Westbury Gardens and examine how science is all around us in nature, Thursday, July 27, 2 p.m. Learn how plants grow and take home your own plant, as you participate in experiments of the water cycle and how we can use science to change the color of a flower both naturally and artificially. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.

Angelsea’s Rock Hall

Learn about the life of Angelsea Hewlett and the world of Long Island and Rock Hall a century ago with artist and art educator Addi Catarina, Thursday, July 20, at 7 p.m., at Rock Hall Museum. 199 Broadway, Lawrence. $10, seniors $8 and free for Friends of Rock Hall. Check payable to Friends of Rock Hall. Space limited, reservations required. Call (516) 239-1157.

July 20

Write on: College essay workshops

Not sure how to get started on your college essay? The Hofstra University Admission Office is offering virtual workshops to help high school students learn the skills to tell their story in a way that helps them stand out. The workshops, Thursday, July 20 and Aug. 17, 4-5 p.m., are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Hear from Hofstra Admission counselors about how to brainstorm topics, and compose a thoughtful essay that shows your personality, talents and interests. For more information about Hofstra Admission’s other virtual summer workshops, go to Admission.Hofstra.edu/ portal/virtual_admission_ webinars. To schedule a summer in-person visit go to: Hofstra.edu/visit.

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.

Lawrence village

The Lawrence village board will welcome two new trustees – Aaron Parnes and Tammy Roz – and reorganize for another of governing the Five Towns municipality. The meeting is on Thursday, July 13, at 8 p.m. in Village Hall. 196 Central Ave., Lawrence.

Having an event?

Community Chest 5K

The Community Chest in South Shore hosts a 5K Run & Family Walk, Sunday, Aug. 13, at the Sunny Atlantic Beach Club. Postrace refreshments will be provided, along with free finish line photos and awards. Registration begins at 7:45 am. Race begins 45 minutes later. 2035 Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Beach Register at CommunityChestSS.org. For more information call (516) 374-5800.

July 24

Woodsburgh Village

Woodsburgh Village Board of Trustees meets, Monday, July 24, at 7 p.m., at Village Hall. 30 Piermont Ave., Hewlett.

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.

On stage Plaza Theatricals brings the iconic musical “Rent,” back to the stage, Friday, July 21, 7:30 p.m. The acclaimed reimagining of “La Vie Boheme,” loosely based on Puccini’s opera and set on East Village streets, fire escapes, tenements, and cafes. This groundbreaking roller coaster ride depicting the joys and sorrows of an eclectic, diverse group of young artists and activists is always captivating. It’s performed at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $35, $30 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

July 27

Mindful mornings

Practice the “art” of looking at art at Nassau County Museum of Art, Thursday, July 27, 10-11 a.m., with NCMA Director of Education Laura Lynch. Mindful looking invites you to observe, question, and calmly reflect in a relaxed and supportive environment free of distraction. It’s an opportunity to experience and enjoy the art in the galleries or sculpture garden, together, making personal connection. $10. Space is limited and registration required. Also Aug. 3. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 4849337 or NassauMuseum.org.

In-person Game Time

Play canasta, mah jongg and Scrabble in the Bentley Room of Peninsula Public Library, 280 Central Ave., Lawrence, Monday, July 17, 2-4:30 p.m. Seating is limited and is first come, first seated. Masks recommended.

IN A BUSINESS BUILT ON SOUND, HE HAD A VISION.

LIIFE returns to the big screen, 26 years later

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

For 26 years, the Long Island International Film Expo has united filmmakers, producers, actors and actresses — and of course, moviegoers — right in the heart of Nassau County.

A great opportunity for people to network with professionals, learn about filmmaking, and watch some of this year’s best independent films, the expo — better known as LIIFE — returns to the Bellmore Movies and Showplace at 222 Pettit Ave., on July 19.

The expo has a lot in store for film fanatics this year, said Debra Markowitz. She’s president of the Long Island Film & TV Foundation, and is a co-creator of LIIFE, along with Henry and Anne Stampfel, owners of the Bellmore Movies.

Aside from 131 films — both shorts and features — which will be screened during this year’s expo, there are also a variety of panels and discussions ticket-buyers can attend. In particular, panels on writing, legalities and liabilities, and a director’s point of view on auditions, which are almost always fully booked.

The audition panel includes more than a half-dozen working directors, listening to actors who book themselves for 10-minute slots to read monologues.

“There are people who directors have seen during these auditions, and they might call them a year later or sometimes even two years later and say, ‘Hey, I’m casting this project. You’re great for such and such,’” Markowitz, a Merrick native, explained. “It’s a great way for them to get their face out there and practice auditioning.”

LIIFE receives support from celebrities who frequently make appearances and speak at panels during the expo.

Lukas Hassel — an actor, screenwriter and filmmaker known for roles in television shows such as NBC’s “The

Blacklist” — is again attending the expo.

“Filmmaking is hard,” he said last year. “It’s one thing if you have a studio backing you with $200 million and celebrity actors. But independent filmmaking is really hard. It’s all about reaching out to your colleagues, to your friends, to your community.”

Various venues have hosted LIIFE since its inception, including Hofstra University, Nassau Community College, and even Malverne Cinema on Hempstead Avenue. For the past 15 years — with the exception of 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic — Bellmore Movies

Want to attend LIIFE?

Visit LongIslandFilm.com to see the lineup of events at the Long Island International Film Expo, and to purchase a Gold Pass, which allows one entrance to every film block and event between July 19 and July 23.

It all takes place at the Bellmore Movies and Showplace, 222 Pettit Ave., in Bellmore.

has been the festival’s home.

LIIFE also receives support each year from Nassau County, to the point its financial sponsorship makes the expo possible.

The film festival attracts everyone, from students, to successful filmmakers, to those just getting started.

“You have people who have really made it in the industry, who maybe do their own projects and lots of shows,” Markowitz said, “but you also have people who are just starting out, who maybe haven’t made a film yet. They can sit in the panels and ask all kinds of questions.

“So we kind of make the place you know, for filmmakers big and small — to really come and be a film community. That’s what I really think we do better than pretty much anybody else.”

And even though the 2023 expo is just around the corner, Markowitz said the Film & TV Foundation is already hard at work, planning the next one.

“I can’t believe we’ve been around for 26 years, and everything we’ve gone through and the changes that we’ve made,” Markowitz said. “It’s an all-volunteer staff, which is a big-time commitment and work commitment. It feels great to be able to get it done.”

Tim Baker/Herald file

Debra Markowitz, president of the Long Island Film & TV Foundation — and co-director of LIIFE — returns to bring yet another Long Island International Film Expo to the Bellmore Movies and Showplace on July 19.

NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

HAFTR graduate

Amanda Kornblum visited with the lower school students and spoke to them about her new book, Where am I?”

Amanda

Kornblum visits HAFTR, discusses her book

Amanda Kornblum, HAFTR alumna, returned to her alma mater to share her newly published book, “Where am I?,” with the lower school students.

The heartwarming tale explores the emotions of feeling left out that can arise from not fitting in, a relatable theme striking a chord with readers of all ages. The book’s universal appeal earned it the impressive distinction of No.1 on the

Amazon bestseller list.

The story is brought to life through beautiful illustrations created by a fellow HAFTR alumni, Matthew Hoenig. Kornblum’s visit to HAFTR is considered a snapshot of its supportive environment and the sense of community it fosters, school officials said.

—

SKA junior honored with Nassau DA’s SHIELD Award

Rina Kaminetsky, a Stella K. Abraham High School junior, was a recipient of a 2023 Nassau County District Attorney SHIELD Award at a June 27 ceremony. The award is given to a high school junior who is selected by their school for

showing outstanding strength of character, commitment to self-growth and the spirit and initiative to bring about positive change in their community.

SHEILD stands for Service, Honesty, Integrity, Excellence Leadership and Duty. — Jeffrey Bessen

Lauren Maggiore

Courtesy HAFTR

Courtesy Nassau DA

Stella K. Abraham High School junior Rina Kaminetsky, left, with Nassau County District Anne Donnelly, was recognized for her character, commitment and initiative with a SHIELD Award.

No matter the industry, businesses around the world are undergoing dramatic changes to the way they operate From technology and skills development, to cultural barriers, self-care and mental health, every organization must adapt and evolve, or risk being left behind.

As we navigate a time of pivotal change, the Herald’s 2023 WE Summit presented by Bank of America brings together thought leaders, innovators and barrier-breaking women for conversations around this year’s theme: The Future is Now.

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT

JUST ADDED: DANIELLE LABARBERA - SVP HUMAN RESOURCES AT AMERICAN EXPRESS & REENA JANA - HEAD OF CONTENT & PARTNERSHIP ENABLEMENT, RESPONSIBLE INNOVATION AT GOOGLE

FOR A FULL LIST OF SPEAKERS, WORKSHOPS AND AGENDA VISIT: RICHNERLIVE.COM/2023-WE-SUMMIT

SPONSORS

For more information about WE Summit or sponsorship opportunities, contact Amy Amato:

William Rockensies is the new Nassau IDA chairman

William Rockensies was appointed to chair the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency, which is a public benefit corporation that aims to support and promote economic and employment development across the county.

As chairman, Rockensies will continue to support the expansion of existing businesses and incentivize new businesses to find a home in Nassau, while generating jobs that aids in the long-term growth of the county’s tax base.

“Mr. Rockensies has all the tools to facilitate the continued prosperity of the NCIDA and we look forward to seeing the organization thrive under his guidance,” County Executive, Bruce Blakeman said in a news release.

Rockensies is a senior vice president at H2M Architects + Engineers, where his primary responsibility is director of the Melville-based firm’s construction servic-

“The role of the Nassau IDA and its impact on our economy have never been more important,” he said in the release. “Rising costs of both project financing and construction as well as the fact that today’s companies have limitless options of where they call home means we have an obligation to our residents to ensure that companies know Nassau County is open for business.”

His previous civic involvement included serving as commissioner of engineering in the Town of Hempstead, as a civil engineer within the Village of Freeport’s Public Works Department and being acting commissioner of the Cathedral Garden Water District.

For more information on the county’s IDA, go to NassauIda.org.

Silver Bells members have a memorable birthday

Joan Connolly and Althea Thomas are members of the Silver Bells, a seniors club that meets every Thursday at Trinity-St. John’s Church in Hewlett.

Last year, Connolly and Thomas celebrated milestone birthdays ¬— 95 and 85, respectively.

To note their special birthdays this year, Silver Bells program director Ann Seligson called the 4th Precinct in Hewlett and three Nassau County police

officers visited the club and brought the ladies flowers.

“The ladies told me they won’t forget it,” Seligson said.

Silver Bells programs include arts and crafts, chair yoga, concerts, exercise, games, holiday parties, line dancing, needlework and more.

To join, come down at noon to the church at 1142 Broadway.

Courtesy Nassau IDA

H2M Architects + Engineers

Senior Vice President William Rockensies is the new chairman of the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency.

Courtesy Ann Seligson

Silver Bells members Joan Connolly, second from left, and Althea Thomas, third from right, received flowers from NCPD officers to celebrate their birthdays. At the far right is program director Ann Seligson.

Peninsula Kiwanis hosts Camp ANCHOR BBQ

Peninsula Kiwanis, one of the two Kiwanis organizations in the Five Towns, hosted its annual Camp ANCHOR (Answering the Needs of Citizens with Handicaps through Organized Recreation) family barbecue at the camp’s site in Point Lookout on May 20.

Kiwanis is an international service oriented club that is involved in a wide range of charitable and philanthropic activities and program. Peninsula Kiwanis supports a variety of institutions and programs,

Lumont Coleman is the new department fire chief

Lumont Coleman is the new chief of the Meadowmere Park Fire Department that protects the roughly 100-home enclave off Rockaway Turnpike.

The 77-year old department is part of Nassau County’s 3rd Battalion, which includes the Hewlett, Inwood, LawrenceCedarhurst, Woodmere and Valley Stream fire departments. The roughly 25 Meadowmere Park firefighters, who at

times also double as fire district commissioners, respond to some 300 calls a year.

Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, who represents the area, and Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin welcomed Coleman and recognized outgoing Chief Kevin Carrero at the department’s annual installation dinner on June 3.

— Jeffrey Bessen

including the Five Towns Early Learning Center in Inwood and a Christmas Dream breakfast whose proceeds go to buying holiday gifts for boys and girls.

Camp ANCHOR is a camp for children with special needs that is supported by the Anchor Program Fund, a nonprofit group dedicated to enhancing the Town of Hempstead’s program for kids and adults with disabilities.

— Jeffrey Bessen

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

The Meadowmere Park Fire Department held its annual installation last month. From left were Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, new chief Lumont Coleman, ex-chief Kevin Carrero and Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin.

Courtesy Town of Hempstead Peninsula Kiwanis held its family barbecue for Camp ANCHOR. Town officials including Receiver of Taxes Jeanie Driscoll, Councilman Melissa Miller, Town Clerk Kate Murray and Councilman Tom Muscarella stopped by.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. CARISBROOK ASSET HOLDING TRUST, Pltf. vs., EDUARDO B. LEITE

A/K/A E.B. LEITE, et al, Defts. Index #15-010238.

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered December 17, 2018, I will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 26, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., prem. k/a 110 Cedar Road, Inwood, NY 11096 and Baywater Blvd., Lawrence, NY, 11559 a/k/a Bayswater Blvd., Inwood, NY 11096. Parcel A: All that certain plot, piece, or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Inwood, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Parcel B: All that certain plot, piece, or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Inwood, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, a/k/a Section 40, Block 125, Lots: 38 & 39 and Section 40, Block 125, Lot 144. Approx. amt. of judgment is $797,826.21 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

JANINE T. LYNAM, Referee. PINCUS LAW GROUP PLLC, Attys. for Pltf., 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY File No. 05082023.56946#100511 140256

LEGAL NOTICE

Resolution to dispose of Real Property Less than $20,000 BE IT RESOVED that pursuant to section 176(30) of the Hempstead Town law, the Inwood Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, state of New York, does hereby declare that this real property is owned by the District located at 188 Doughty Boulevard, Inwood New York and is to relinquish one Western Pro Plus 8’ snow Plow, including Halogen head Lights and handheld Controller. This equipment is no longer necessary for use in the fire District. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that based upon an appraisal utilizing Trius equipment services this real property is valued less than $20,000, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that pursuant to Hempstead Town law the Inwood Fire District is authorized to dispose and sell the aforementioned property of the Fire District to the highest sealed bidder following an advertisement in our official printed publication the Nassau Herold following a 30-day notice of sale. This Equipment is to be sold as is and picked up from fire Headquarters by the successful bidder upon payment. For information, bid sheets, viewing and examination of the Equipment, please contact Dennis Verriello

during the hours of 9am to 2pm Tuesday - Friday at Inwood Fire Headquarters 188 Doughty Blvd. Inwood N.Y 11096. or call 516 239 4324. The bids are to be opened and read aloud in the District office at 10 AM on July 14, 2023. Minimum starting bid ($4,500) 140319

LEGAL NOTICE

Resolution to dispose of Real Property Less than $20,000 BE IT RESOVED that pursuant to section 176(30) of the Hempstead Town law, the Inwood Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, state of New York, does hereby declare that this real property is owned by the District located at 188 Doughty Boulevard, Inwood New York and is to relinquish one 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe vehicle identification # 1GNSK2E07DR361256 due to it being no longer necessary for use in the fire District. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that based upon an appraisal utilizing the Kelly Blue book services this real property is valued less than $20,000, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that pursuant to Hempstead Town law the Inwood Fire District is authorized to dispose and sell the aforementioned property of the Fire District to the highest sealed bidder following an advertisement in our official printed publication the Nassau Herold following a 30-day notice of sale. This vehicle is to be sold as is with existing engine damage and picked up from fire Headquarters by the successful bidder upon payment. For information, bid sheets, viewing and examination of the vehicle, please contact Dennis Verriello during the hours of 9am to 2pm Tuesday - Friday at Inwood Fire Headquarters 188 Doughty Blvd. Inwood N.Y 11096. or call 516 239 4324. The bids are to be opened and read aloud in the District office at 10 AM on July 14, 2023. Minimum starting bid ($4,000) 140321

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. ELM LIMITED, LLC., Pltf. vs. ITZHAK HERSHKO, et al, Defts. Index #608671/2019. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered March 23, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 24, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 39, Block 344, Lot 222. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or

there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale.

JEFFREY W. HALBREICH, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #100448

139622

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter: Agency:

Board of Zoning Appeals Incorporated Village of Atlantic Beach, New York

11509

Date: July 20, 2023

Time: 7:00 PM Place: Village Hall, 65 The Plaza, Atlantic Beach, New York

Criminal misChief

nonconformity with the building area, structural and dimensional standards currently in effect in the district, or create a new nonconformity with respect thereto; or (2) Any necessary area variances are granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals. Section 250-125 Accessory parking (A) No person shall maintain any of the following uses in any district unless such person shall provide automobile parking spaces on such premises, in the amounts or proportions as follows, unless otherwise specified:

Jorge Alberto, 22, was arrested on June 29 between Clinton Avenue and Mott Avenue in Inwood for criminal mischief, police said.

According to police, on July 1, an unknown person damaged a vehicle’s windshield with fireworks at the Absolute Trucking Inc. on 301 Mill Rd. in Hewlett at 9:40 p.m.

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.

Inwood man charged in stabbing

11509

Subject: Case # 2304-6210, Hershal Wolf and Gertrude Engel, 1951 Bay Boulevard, Atlantic Beach, New York 11509 Applicant proposes to construct 439 square feet raised deck in the rear yard, and a 31.8 one story rear addition and is seeking relief from the following section of the Zoning Code: Section 25024 Rear yards. There shall be a rear yard, the depth of which shall be at least 25 feet, proposed rear yard setback 5 feet. Premises are also known as Section 58, Block 72, and Lots 1-4 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map. All the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matter. All relevant documents may be inspected at the Building Department, 65 The Plaza during normal business hours. Dated: July 7, 2023 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS Josie Ficeto, Building Clerk 140687

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter: Agency: Board of Zoning Appeals Incorporated Village of Atlantic Beach, New York 11509 Date: July 20, 2023 Time: 7:00 PM Place: Village Hall, 65 The Plaza, Atlantic Beach, New York 11509 Subject: Case # 23-06-6266, A & S Contemporary Homes, LLC., 1895 Park Street, Atlantic Beach, New York 11509 Applicant proposes to construct a 15.2’ X 20.5’ 2nd story addition to be used as additional office space and maintain a 49.4’ X 8. 1st story deck in the side yard and is seeking relief from the following sections of the Zoning Code: Section 2504 Continuation or change of legal nonconforming uses and buildings.

(B) The physical area occupied by any legal nonconforming use shall not be expanded. (C) No legal nonconforming building may be expanded unless the use is expressly permitted in the regulations applicable to the district and not a legal nonconforming use, and either:

(1) The proposed expansion does not increase the existing degree of

(7) Office buildings: one parking space for each 200 square feet of total floor area or for each three employees, whichever is greater. Will require two additional parking spaces. Section 250-25021 Lot coverage. Permitted 30%, existing 31.2%%, maintain 37.83%. Section 250-22 Front yard (B) In case of a corner lot, a front yard shall be required on each street, and, notwithstanding the foregoing, each front yard shall be not less than 25 feet, provided that, if at the effective date of this chapter any corner lot is held in single and separate ownership having a width of less than 55 feet, the depth of the front yard on one side of the lot may be decreased when authorized as a special exception by the Board of Zoning Appeals. Proposed front yard setback on Park Street 20.3 feet. Premises are also known as Section 58, Block 53, and Lots 1-3 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map. All the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matter. All relevant documents may be inspected at the Building Department, 65 The Plaza during normal business hours. Dated:

July 7, 2023 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS Josie Ficeto, Building Clerk 140688

LEGAL NOTICE

CASE NO. 12649

A dispute between two men on Mott Avenue in Inwood on June 30 resulted in one man being stabbed and the other arrested, Nassau police said.

Near 7 p.m., police responded to a 911 call that a person was stabbed in front of 18 Mott Ave. Police found a man, 53, on the ground with a wound to his back. He was taken to a local hospital. As of press time, the man was listed in “serious but stable condition.”

The subsequent investigation uncovered that Angel Jesus Arancibia Campos, 39, of Clinton Avenue, also in Inwood, was involved in the argument and allegedly stabbed the man.

Arancibia Campos was charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon. He was issued a summons. As of press time, no further information is available.

— Jeffrey Bessen

Public Notices

RESOLUTION NO.6592022 Adopted: May 24, 2022

Councilmember

Carini offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION GRANTING THE PETITON OF THE GIAMBRONE ASSET MANAGEMENT TRUST, AS OWNER, AND BOLLA EM REALTY, LLC, AS LESSEE, FOR A VARIANCE FROM THE PROVISIONS OF THE GSS DISTRICT, SITE PLAN MODIFICATION APROVAL, AND A MODIFICATION OF RESTRICITVE COVENANTS FOR REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1589 MERRICK ROAD, MERRICK, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NEW YORK. WHEREAS, the petition of Bolla EM Realty, LLC, as lessee, with offices at 809 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530, and the Giambrone Asset Management Trust, as property owner,

with an address at 14 Kotfield Court, Melville, New York 11747, dated and acknowledged June 25, 2021, for site plan modification approval, a Variance from the GSS provisions and a modification of Restrictive Coveneants for property located on the northeast corner of Merrick Road and Central Boulevard, Merrick, New York, more particularly described hereinafter, was filed with this Town Board; and WHEREAS, Bolla EM Realty, LLC, as lessee, and the Giambrone Asset Management Trust, as a property owner, have submitted to the Town of Hempstead a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants dated August 25, 2022, and executed by Harvinder Singh, Member (Bolla) and John Giambrone, Trustee (Giambrone) (executed in counterparts) with reference to said overall parcel that modifies a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants recorded in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on January 27, 1986; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the petition of Bolla EM Realty, as property owner, dated June 25, 2021, for site plan modification approval, aVariance from the GSS provisions and a modification of Restricitve Covenants at the hereinafter described property in Merrick, New York, is hereby granted and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,

that the property which is the subject of said Petition is known and designated as Section 55, Block 180, Lot 32 on the Nassau County Land And Tax Map, the meets and bounds of which are described in the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said petition is granted subject to the provisions of Chapter 132 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead and the Building Zone Ordinance of the Town of Hempstead, and further approvals if required from the Board of Appeals or any other governmental entity and the submission of a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants acceptable to this Board and the subject premises shall be maintained in accordance with the site plan prepared by High Point Engineering, last revised on May 10, 2022 and filed with the Town Clerk; and be it further RESOLVED, that this inclusion shall become effective upon the issuance of a permit by the Department of Buildings of the Town of Hempstead. The forgoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Dunne and adopted upon roll call as follows: AYES: SEVEN (7) NOES: NONE (0) 140659

LEGAL NOTICE

Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the day of June 20, 2023, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 49-2023, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Local Law No. 49-2023, for the enactment of an amendment to Chapter 99 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead entitled “Registration and Permitting of Property” in relation to accessory structures and penalties.

Dated:Hempstead, New York June 20, 2023 BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD KATE

MURRAY Town Clerk

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor 140661

LEGAL NOTICE

visit our website at www. hewlettharbor.org. All interested parties will be given the opportunity to be heard on the following applications for relief:

1)Mr. Lemuel Santana 20 Thixton Drive Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557 has applied to the Planning Board for site plan, elevation plan and landscape design review for a new one family home, 2 car garage, driveway and inground pool.

2)Olga Khakham 1315 Harbor Road Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557 has applied to the Planning Board for site plan, elevation plan and landscape review for a addition, alterations and renovations of a one family home. At said hearing, all interested parties will be given an opportunity to be heard. Copies of the proposed application will be available at the Village Hall at least five (5) days before the public hearing and may be seen during the regular business hours. Those persons planning to attend the meeting and who require special accommodations because of a disability are requested to notify the Village Clerk no less than 48 hours prior to the meeting.

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 49 -2023

PLEASE TAKE

NOTICE that pursuant to

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Board of the Incorporated Village of Hewlett Harbor will convene and hold a public hearing via ZOOM July 26, 2023, at 7:00PM. All residents and professionals wishing to attend are directed to contact Village Hall at 516-3743806 for further ZOOM information/instruction or

Dated: July 7, 2023 Hewett Harbor, New York BY ORDER OF THE PLANNING BOARD OF THE VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR TED MAY Planning Board Chairman Tommy Montemarano Building Inspector 140685

Angel Jesus ArAncibiA campo

PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENT

EAST ROCKAWAY JR./SR. HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER (2 POSITIONS)

12 Month Position

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS PER NASSAU COUNTY CIVIL SERVICE

Training and Experience

Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university, AND

Four years of satisfactory administrative staff experience, which must include participating in budget preparation, and/or personnel and/or procurement activities.

NOTE: 1. Experience, as outlined above, in excess of the four-year requirement, may be substituted for college education on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of four years.

2. A Master's degree from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university may be substituted for one year of the experience as outlined above.

Anticipated Start Date: Upon Civil Service Approval

Please submit letter of interest and resume to:

Ms. Diane Drakopoulos

Personnel Clerk 443 Ocean Avenue East Rockaway, NY 11518 516-887-8300, x1-441

Email: ddrakopoulos@eastrockawayschools.org

The Merrick Before/After School Program is preparing for the 2023-24 school year. We require mature individuals to provide quality care to elementary school aged children from 2:45 pm to 5:00 or 6:00 pm weekdays. Minimum 3 afternoons per week. Experience helpful. If interested, email merrickbasp@aol.com or call 516-379-4245

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.

Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Night Availability is a Must.

Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS

WANTED

Will Certify And Train HS Diploma NYS License Clean 3 Years Call 516-731-3000

EDITOR/REPORTER

The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry.

To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com LINE

Path Monitor

At Blaze, Old Bethpage Village Outdoors From September Through November

5-8 Hour Evening Shifts

Providing A Welcoming Atmosphere And Ensuring Guest Safety. Hourly Rate $20. To Apply: https://hudsonvalley.org/ employment/

To Apply: https://hudsonvalley.org/ employment/

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

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing

PRESS-ROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP

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

RECEPTIONIST P/T Busy Cedarhurst Office Sundays & Some Week Days

Answering Phones, Filing, And Scheduling Appointments Must Be Computer Literate Call 516-374-1010

Child/Eldercare/Help Wanted

NANNY NEEDED EXPERIENCED Live-In Or Live-Out Monday - Friday English/Spanish Speaking Call 516-672-4040

Email

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

Wantagh

Captivating and Luxurious Home

A home office in the basement

Q. Since Covid I’ve been working mostly from home. I’m planning to build a home office in my basement, and will use metal wall studs with rockwool to insulate around the outside wall and also the inside walls for sound privacy. My child’s playroom will be just outside the office. I’m wondering whether I need to put in some kind of heater or air conditioner or just put a vent in the wall for airflow. My basement normally stays pretty cool in the summer, and isn’t too cold in the winter, usually around 60 to 65 degrees. Only about 18 inches of the basement is above ground. Should I add a split air conditioner and heater, use a space heater or just put vents in my office wall to the outside room?

EIK, Spac LR/DR with Vaulted Ceiling & Fpl, & Fam Rm. 2 Car Att Gar. Endless Possibilities!

SD#14 $1,349,000

246 Adams Rd, BA, Elegant & Stately 4200 Sq Ft CH Col on Beautiful Quiet St. 5 BR, 4.55 Bth. Sweeping Staircase. All Spacious Rooms with Top Quality Finishes. Amazing Fam Rm with Cathedral Ceiling Overlooking

1 Acre Resortlike Prop Featuring IG Gunite Pool, Patio & Tennis Ct. XL Fin Bsmt. Upper Level has Primary Ste w/ Dressing Rm & Bth Plus 3 BRs & 2

Bths. 2 Car Att Gar.Low Taxes! SD#20 REDUCED! $2,299,000

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 (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

WOO

REAL ESTATE

Open Houses

HEWLETT BA 1193 E. Broadway # M23

REDUCED Move Right Into This Stunning Gut Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Garden Town. Gourmet Kit W/Thermdore St Steel Appl Opens Into DR & LR. Primary BR w/Bth Plus Spac 2nd BR. W/D in Unit. New Self Controlled CAC. Oak Flrs, LED Lights. Near LIRR. Parking Avail. SD#14. You Don't Want to Miss This...$359,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman

516-238-4299

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

walk in closets and bath. The family room has a gas fireplace. There is an entertainer's size basement with 8ft ceilings and separate outside entrance with huge yard. You won’t want to miss this one!

Laura Memisha

Real Estate Broker

Cell: 516-984-0343

Office: 516-826-1111 Realty Advisors 3341 Park Avenue Wantagh NY 11793

A. You gave useful information that helps give me a clear understanding of the issues. There are many things to know about finishing a basement, because of building code safety requirements, thermal comfort, lighting levels and even the ceiling height. Hopefully you already know that you need a building permit, even though most people roll their eyes at this, because getting a permit isn’t as simple as it used to be, and because of the difficulties, many people avoid the process.

Consider that you need an escape well from the main room, and you can’t exit through the office room to the exterior, because you can’t exit through a smaller space with a potentially closed door. Your thermal comfort, working at any hour of the day, is important, and your choice of wall metal studs can avoid potential moisture effects that can rot wood wall studs. In a recent conversation with a contractor, he said that he often sees wall studs rusted when he opens the walls to renovate, so be sure that the wall cavity has a water-resistant coating on the masonry or concrete wall surfaces. Although I recommend rigid polystyrene for the wall cavity, because it won’t sag if there’s moisture, rockwool is also a good choice if it can be secured from drooping when there is moisture buildup in the walls.

Open Houses

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

$2,999,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-429 ba

HEWLETT HARBOR BA, 1051 Channel Dr, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! 3/4 BR, 2.5 Bth Split on Beautiful Ω Acre Parklike Property. Updtd Gran/Wood EIK, Spac LR/DR with Vaulted Ceiling & Fpl, & Fam Rm. 2 Car Att Gar.Endless Possibilities! SD#14...$1,349,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

HEWLETT HARBOR BA 246 Adams Rd, NEW TO MARKET! Elegant & Stately 4200 Sq Ft CH Col on Beautiful Quiet St. 5 BR, 4.55 Bth. Sweeping Staircase. All Spacious Rooms with Top Quality Finishes. Amazing Fam Rm with Cathedral

Rockwool is a better sound insulator than fiberglass thermal insulation, but the better choice would be a specifically manufactured sound batting, also fiberglass, that comes in packages marked with the sound rating and labeled as acoustic insulation.

The choice to add heat or cooling is based on a few factors. One factor is related to the humidity level of the basement, which can be monitored with a humidistat. You may only need a humidifier to control humidity, since the ground is an excellent insulator that slows heat and cool air from radiating to the room because of the ground’s large mass. If you remember to insulate between the floor joists at the outside wall, the cool and heat should be under control. Vents in the interior walls will defeat the sound privacy purpose of the room and are not recommended. Good luck!

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com,

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

© 2023 Monte Leeper

Open Houses

WOODMERE BA, 504 Saddle Ridge Rd., FIRST TIME ON MARKET! 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

MoneyTo Lend

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Cemetery Plots

CEMETERY PLOT FOR TWO For Sale: Pinelawn Cemetery. Garden Of Normandy North. Price Negotiable. 516-375-1905

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Garage Sales

FRANKLIN SQUARE SATURDAY 7/15, 9AM-4PM. 1016 Vanburen Avenue. Toys, Children's Clothing, Tools, Lots More! Everything Must Go!

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

FINDS UNDER $100

Finds Under $100 32 X 32 Mirror beveled edge etchings in corners, hardware included for hanging.$70.00 (516)579-9089 excellent

CAST IRON GRILL PAN: with Top Press, $15. 516-292-0430

FRAMES: ALL SIZES, colors, wood, metal, etc. all under $8 or bundle for less. 516-225-9191

GEORGE FORMAN GRILL: Medium size, $20. 516-292-0430

GOLDTONE LIGHTER BY Colibri, Brand new with butane refill, vintage $20,00 take all (516)579-9089

Finds Under $100

MEN'S COLE HAAN Black Leather Ankle Boots; Chelsea model, 7W. Excellent condition. $85, 516-320-1906

UTILITY CART, GREEN wicker by Lexington, 2 shelves, strong, Mint $65. 516-225-9191

SERVICES

Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry

*MICHAEL LO BAIDO CONSTRUCTION*

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

Decks

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Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Handyman

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

E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

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LITO CONSTRUCTION

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Power Washing

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AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

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Education

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Congestion pricing, a hole-in-the-head proposal

Everything in this world is a function of timing. Whether it’s sports or some other activity, timing is everything. And it will be a key issue when it comes to the state’s longplanned congestion-pricing plan, which is scheduled to start sometime in 2024. There is no doubt that drivers in New York City face challenges every day. As the coronavirus pandemic has faded, negotiating the traffic in and out of the city has become a disastrous experience. There are many more suburban private-vehicle commuters than anyone anticipated. Planning groups have been advocating for many years for a congestion-pricing plan. It has worked in London and Singapore, and it was hoped that it would eventually come to New York. But the key question is whether or not it’s the right time to impose this burden on scores of thousands of drivers.

I have always been an advocate of finding a way to cut down on congestion in the city. A number of mayors have grappled with ideas on how to improve traffic flow, but all of their ideas have fallen flat. With more bike lanes and parking restrictions as well as the traffic, it’s almost impossible to maneuver around the city at virtually any hour of the day.

Is it the right time to start the congestion pricing program? No. I think it’s the wrong time, for a variety of reasons. The Covid nightmare may be long gone, but the city hasn’t recovered. Many businesses suffered greatly, and are just beginning to recover from their losses. Charging trucks that make multiple trips to the city will just become a consumer tax.

The hearings on the congestion plan were a sham. Members of the public were given a chance to weigh in on whether they supported such a plan, but listeners sounded bored with the whole process. You can’t have a real hearing without knowing what it will cost to use the toll zone.

The Metropolitan Transportation

Authority says it will soon reveal the toll structure, but by then the plan will be a done deal. There is no way that car and truck owners will have an opportunity to express their concerns, ideas or opposition to the final announcement. Knowing the MTA from past experience, I expect the tolls to be arbitrary and unreasonable.

The agency has stated that tolls could be as high as $23. My guess is that they will be much higher. The real toll structure will depend on how much it will cost to set up the tolling system. Hundreds of millions of dollars will be spent to get the E-ZPass system up and running. If the construction contract runs over budget, and you can expect that it will, drivers who commute will end up paying to cover those costs.

Most people aren’t familiar with the term “bond covenants,” which relates to the guarantees in the congestion-pricing legislation. It means that the tolling costs will be covered by the tolls drivers pay. If the cost of erecting tolling devices is exceptionally high, the tolls will have to

rise to pay off the bonds.

The MTA has said that the tolls may be lower on weekends. But with drivers covering the no doubt excessive construction costs, don’t expect any bargain fares. Sadly, the more questions people ask about the details of the program, the more likely it will be to turn into a disaster, because those answers won’t come in time.

This program wasn’t launched by Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration. It was created by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and Hochul has now inherited the plan. She is at the mercy of a bureaucracy that is rarely people-sensitive. If the MTA botches the toll structure and offers a confusing implementation plan, Hochul will have inherited a major political headache.

Congestion pricing is a good government idea. There is a need to control the city’s traffic nightmare. But those who drive into the city need this plan right now like they need a hole in the head.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? JKremer@liherald.com.

Journalists become targets for jihadists

The number of foreign correspondents has plummeted in the past 10 years, and most overseas news bureaus have either shrunk or shuttered their offices. At the same time, more reporters are being killed or kidnapped by extremist groups. No one knows the exact numbers, because families and news agencies are protective of information about individuals in captivity.

We may have come to a turning point in journalism, where the danger of reporting from jihadist strongholds has become too extreme to justify the presence of correspondents.

Steven Sotloff, 31, was the 70th journalist killed in Syria since civil war began tearing the country apart in 2011. That is a devastating number of fatalities for a noncombatant group comprising professional reporters who just want to get the story and send it home.

Despite a heartbreaking videotaped appeal by Sotloff’s mother, the terrorist group Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, beheaded him and posted the video on YouTube. He was the second American reporter to die on his knees in a faraway desert in recent weeks. ISIS also recorded the murder of another reporter, James

Foley, sending those brutal images, too, out into the world.

Sotloff and Foley belonged to a courageous band of brothers and sisters who travel the world to tell the who, what, where, why and how of natural disasters and armed conflicts. They do the counterintuitive thing — running toward danger in order to see what is happening on the ground.

A driven group of professionals, they are willing to endure just about anything that life in the field can throw at them: deplorable living conditions, foul weather, loneliness, fatigue and violence. Their goal is to get the most accurate facts and interviews they can and transmit or broadcast the stories, often from the battlefield.

There is the glory, too, along with the guts. And there is glamour as well, and a storied history of dashing correspondents who covered wars by day, hunkered down with troops, and caroused by night in bars from Singapore to Saigon.

Dexter Filkins, author of “The Forever War,” wrote about reporting from Afghanistan and Iraq during those wars. He spoke honestly about the addictive quality of living on the edge every day. I’ve followed his career, watching him return again and again to whatever city happens to be in flames.

That’s what foreign correspondents have always done, from Ernie Pyle and

Ernest Hemingway in World War II to Dan

Rather and Morley Safer in Vietnam. They fly into danger, push toward the front lines and try to nail the story. They employ fixers and translators and locals who work both sides of the street. And, too often, they die.

In 2002, journalist Daniel Pearl was killed in Pakistan on his way to meet an informant. In 2011, CBS reporter Lara Logan was sexually assaulted by dozens of men in Cairo’s Tahrir Square on the day that rebels toppled the regime of Hosni Mubarak. In 2012, a 21-yearold British journalist, Natasha Smith, was also attacked in Tahrir Square, and barely escaped with her life. A year later, a female Dutch journalist, 22, was attacked and raped in Tahrir Square by five men, while a chanting mob stood by and watched.

The atmosphere has turned toxic for foreign reporters, especially in the Middle East. In the past, all sides in a conflict respected journalists’ neutrality and sought out reporters in order to tell their side of events.

Now, however, a reporter in the field, especially a Western journalist, is seen as a commodity, a bargaining chip in a kidnap scheme, a source of ransom money, and a target. ISIS doesn’t need a foreign correspondent to vent and rant. It has YouTube. Reporters are not only expendable; kidnapping them is profitable, both in dollars and propaganda.

Randi is on a brief leave. This column was originally published Sept. 11-17, 2014.

I watch Richard Engel, of NBC, reporting from the rooftops of Baghdad, and I see Anna Coren, an Australian correspondent, reporting from Mosel. I don’t know how they summon the courage to carry on in such a hostile environment, and I don’t know that they should.

Perhaps we need to rethink the model of sending journalists into war zones. CNN and the other major news organizations try to protect their people, moving them from safe house to safe house and changing their daily routines to discourage kidnapping. But the nature of war has changed. Freelancers, like Foley and Sotloff, are especially vulnerable; they don’t have an organization behind them. The risks they took outweighed any possible benefit.

It may have been worth the sacrifice in the 1940s to get news of faraway battles back to friends and relatives at home, and it surely was journalists who helped turn the tide of public sentiment against the war in Vietnam. But these days there are cellphones and social media to get the word out. Today’s wars in Iraq and Syria, in Gaza and Libya are turning reporters into coveted trophies, vulnerable to kidnappings that often end in death.

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

RANDI KREISS

Reporters are seen as commodities, bargaining chips in kidnap schemes.

The MTA has said the tolls could be as high as $23. My guess? They’ll be much higher.

JERRY KREMER

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Easy summer living? Not for some children

For many, summer is the time for camp, vacation and weekend barbecues.

However, for some children across the country — and even right here in Nassau County — summer leaves school-aged kids scrambling to find a healthy meal, since they can’t depend on the federally subsidized breakfast and lunch programs at their school.

It’s far more prevalent than many might realize. One report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that 12 percent of American households had children who weren’t getting enough to eat.

They call it “food insecurity,” but let’s call it what it really is: hunger.

And hunger is quite close to home, too. In fact, 1 in 4 people on Long Island who are hungry are kids. That’s 65,000 kids who are not getting three full nutritious meals every day, among more than 221,000 people overall.

While we can’t forget what it’s like to be hungry, there are even more lasting impacts beyond the sound of a grumbling stomach. Young people who are not eating properly and regularly are at a higher risk than their peers to experience behavioral issues such as anxiety, aggression and hyperactivity, according to experts. They often suffer from a reduced ability to learn social skills, impairing cognitive learning and possibly even incurring permanent brain damage.

A lack of food also raises the risk of becoming sick and possibly having to endure chronic illnesses such as anemia and asthma.

Kids who are eating healthy during

Island Harvest

Food Donor program, call: (631) 873-4775, ext. 2306. For all other programs, go to IslandHarvest.org or email admin@islandharvest.org.

Long Island Cares

Call (631) 582-3663, or go to LICares.org.

the summer break are more than likely to retain what they learned during the previous academic year, and be better prepared to build on that foundation when they return to school.

The Summer Food Service Program administered through the state’s education department aims to fill the gap across New York. Locally, Island Harvest — a Melville-based hunger-relief organization — partners with roughly 35 community locations across Long Island — churches, health centers, libraries, recreation centers, parks and schools — to get food to those who need it.

Last year, Island Harvest served 75,000 meals to more than 2,500 children. To educate the kids on the value of eating healthy food, there were also hands-on nutrition lessons. Learning how much sugar was in their favorite breakfast cereal and drink was a “wow” moment for many of them.

Long Island Cares is another group battling hunger in Nassau and Suffolk counties. The Hauppauge-based organi-

letters

Nassau County needs to repair its parks

To the Editor:

Thanks to the Herald for covering the disgraceful conditions at North Woodmere Park in “No. Woodmere park is focus of complaints” in last week’s issue. This is another example of how Nassau County continues to fail the Five Towns and our beautiful county parks. It’s embarrassing on the part of the county that even our local newspaper can’t receive answers from our local government.

However, it isn’t just the North Woodmere Park that’s on the back burner. I’ve seen a ton of complaints about Grant Park, in Hewlett, on the Hewlett-Woodmere District 14 Residents Facebook page. An example of how the county is failing people who use Grant Park is the fact that the basketball courts remain under construction even though it’s the summer months, the ideal time for use.

In addition, it has been reported by another media outlet that Christopher Morley Park, in Roslyn, may shut down due to the poor maintenance of the park.

The county loves to brag about its financial shape in the junk mail it sends to residents, yet it hides the fact that they don’t want to invest in our county parks.

AMIL VIRANI Valley Stream

zation runs an array of programs from emergency response and recovery, to Baxter’s Pet Pantry for starving dogs and cats. There are also youth-oriented offerings such as the Kids Café, Pack It Up for Kids, and the summer food program.

As you sit back in your easy chair in the sunshine, you’re thinking, “OK, there are programs to feed the children. What can I do?”

Get involved. Getting food to the hungry takes effort — money or manpower.

Island Harvest has a food donor program. Neighbors and other groups can run a food and fund drive, and you can volunteer. For a teen looking to collect community service hours, this is a great way to earn that volunteer time while truly making a difference, maybe even for a peer.

Long Island Cares also has multiple avenues to help. There is corporate giving, individual donations, hosting a food drive, the Student Hunger Advocacy Coalition and, of course, volunteering.

These are but two of the organizations on Long Island that battle hunger. There are many local organizations that could use your time and support.

Ensuring children are properly fed through the summer is an investment we can’t afford not to make. Typically, every dollar donated equals two meals, according to Island Harvest.

Like that old commercial, “you can pay me now or pay me later,” we can help feed children now, or deal with the consequences of unhealthy young people in the near future. And that comes with a higher price tag for society, and for someone to grow up knowing all too well the pains of hunger.

Honor Harry Chapin’s legacy with action to end hunger

If you compiled the names of the most impactful Long Islanders in our history, you’d surely start off with the likes of Theodore Roosevelt, Walt Whitman and Marie Colvin — and in my estimation, Harry Chapin is a fitting fourth candidate to complete a cross-cultural Mount Rushmore of great Long Islanders.

In just nine years as a recording artist, Chapin released 12 albums that embodied his distinctive style as a musical storyteller. Thanks to timeless melodies and stirring lyrics that vividly told stories of everyday life, songs like “Taxi,” “W.O.L.D.,” “Circle,” “Sequel” and, of course, “Cat’s in the Cradle” became embedded in the soundtracks of our lives in the 1970s, and have endured in the decades since.

benefit concerts, and used his platform as a springboard for advocacy. He was involved in launching World Hunger Year (now known as WhyHunger) in 1975, and establishing the Presidential Commission on World Hunger during the Carter administration. But the food bank that now bears his name is perhaps his greatest innovation. When Chapin launched Long Island Cares in 1980, he created Long Island’s first food bank, and in doing so revolutionized our regional approach to addressing food insecurity and hunger.

arnoLD w. DrUCker

Using his remarkable gifts, Chapin also pursued a philanthropic calling: a mission to eradicate hunger, in the United States in particular.

As one of the world’s highest-paid entertainers at the time, he gave generously to charitable causes, hosted numerous

The good and bad of pandemic-driven technological progress

To the Editor:

In 2021, Long Island Cares distributed 14 million pounds of food — the equivalent of 11.5 million meals — and it now has a half-dozen brick-andmortar storefront locations across the Island. The agency was instrumental in addressing crises like Superstorm Sandy and the economic disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic. And because no member of a family — included the four-legged and feathered ones — is spared from hunger, the seventh location, Baxter’s Pet Pantry, is dedicated to collecting and distributing pet food and supplies to families in need.

In this oft-derided age of the celebrity

Letters

The coronavirus pandemic, without a doubt, changed the world — and one of its most notable effects has been the acceleration of technology initiatives as the public and private sectors seek to digitize more operations and communications. Many artificial intelligence products have come out of these advances, and many are being put to use by state and local governments with input from private tech companies.

Governments are adopting AI at an accelerating pace. New York City and state agencies have experienced a broad expansion of AI applications, such as chatbots. And now, with last year’s widespread introduction of AI tools that can create new content such as text and images, it appears that further changes are on the way.

It is imperative that the private sector and government institutions meet the moment by adopting comprehensive risk-mitigation strategies and effective AI governance frameworks that prioritize transparency, accuracy and fairness.

Unfortunately, the ability to understand the risks involved with some AI products — and the strategies to reduce or eliminate those risks — has not kept up with the pace at which AI is being put to use. Numerous studies have shown a significant rise in AI adoption and investment, with most experts foreseeing a further boost in

candidate, Chapin would have been a natural to run for the House of Representatives or another elected office, but not because he was a star. He would have been ideal because he did the work and cared deeply about the future we shared. Sadly, he never got that chance. On July 16, 1981, Chapin was driving his Volkswagen to a benefit concert at Eisenhower Park when the car was struck by an 18-wheeler on the Long Island Expressway and he was fatally injured.

The shock of his sudden, untimely death reverberated through the park on that summer evening, and through our society for years afterward. He would be cited as an inspiration for endeavors like USA for Africa and Live Aid, and countless memorial awards, theaters and humanitarian events would be named in his honor.

Neighboring municipalities like Suffolk County have declared July 16 Harry Chapin Day in honor of all he achieved in just 38 years. In Nassau County, I continue to pursue legislation I filed last year to establish a Harry Chapin Day of our own. While there has been no action by the legislative majority to date, I will never lose hope, or lose sight of the important mis-

AI investment in the coming years. Alarmingly, organizations have made little progress in addressing well-known AI-related risks such as bias, lack of transparency and safety concerns.

This concerning trend is also evident in government institutions. My recent report on AI governance in New York City found that the city lacks an effective AI governance framework. City agencies have been left to develop their own divergent approaches, resulting in ad hoc and incomplete measures that fail to ensure transparency, accuracy and fairness in AI systems.

This is concerning because while AI promises vast opportunities, it also carries inherent risks. Several incidents — even before the pandemic — illustrated the unintentional harm that can be caused by government AI systems designed or implemented irresponsibly. A faulty automated fraud-detection system in Michigan erroneously accused thousands of unemployment insurance recipients of fraud, causing financial ruin for many. Similar issues have plagued other systems related to Medicaid eligibility determinations, facial recognition, criminal justice, health care, teacher evaluations and job recruitment applications.

New York City has been a forerunner in examining the use of AI. It was among the first to establish a task force dedicated to examining the responsible use of automated decision-making systems, including AI systems. But the city’s efforts are no longer keeping pace with this rapidly advancing technology. Despite the task force’s recommendations and the expansion of AI applications during the pandemic, the city still doesn’t have an effective AI governance

sion in front of us.

Rather than wait for the gears of government to turn, I decided to immediately implement one of the tenets of my proposed legislation — after all, Chapin was the man who said, “When in doubt, do something!” Starting on July 16, my office will hold its second annual summer food drive, to benefit Long Island Cares and draw renewed attention to Chapin’s legacy.

Among the many lessons of the past several years, we have all been confronted with the hard truth that far more of our neighbors struggle silently with food insecurity than we ever knew.

If you would like to support this endeavor, you can make a contribution of nonperishable goods at the Plainview-Old Bethpage and Syosset libraries and Plainview’s Trio Hardware, or donate directly to Long Island Cares, through Aug. 16. Call my office, at (516) 571-6216, or email adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov, if you have any questions.

In Harry’s words again, “We all have the potential to move the world, and the world is ready to be moved.” This summer, as Nassau County residents and Long Islanders, let’s unite to move the world to a better and more humane place.

Arnold W. Drucker has represented Nassau County’s 16th Legislative District since 2016.

Framework courtesy Michael Ostrow

framework.

As we continue to embrace the technological leaps brought forth by the pandemic, we must ensure that we do so responsibly. Audits, such as the one my office conducted in New York City, can help drive change by raising awareness of where risks lie.

Understanding these risks and identifying blind spots is a first step in the right direction, but the city must also take further action, such as implementing a robust governance

framework to ensure that the use of AI is transparent, accurate, unbiased, and minimizes the potential for disparate impacts. I encourage my colleagues in government to join me in ensuring that AI systems work to further the greater good for all New Yorkers.

U sing his remarkable gifts, Chapin pursued a philanthropic calling.

THOMAS P. DINAPOLI New York state comptroller