Oceanside/Island Park Herald 06-08-2023

A chat with David Paymer

OHS alum, distinguished character actor reflects on career

By kARINA koVAC kkovac@liherald.com

David Paymer, a renowned character actor, recently reminisced about his formative years at Oceanside High School. In an interview with the Herald, Paymer, 68, a 1972 OHS graduate, credited his early experiences in his hometown for shaping his successful acting career, and shared his gratitude and acknowledged the impact that the hamlet had on his life.

Students at top of their class care about their community

By kARINA koVAC kkovac@liherald.com

Oceanside High School Valedictorian Lindsay Chetkof and Salutatorian Michael Caine have a lot in common — but not their approach to being at the top of their class.

Chetkof always pushed herself to get there. Caine, in contrast, wanted to relax after the toll the coronavirus pandemic’s toll on his freshman year.

They are similar, though, in the respect that both took at least six Advanced Placement classes, and supplemented their exceptional academics by taking part in extracurricular activities.

lindsay Chetkof

“I was speechless. There was nothing left to say. It was just, like, it felt so incredible to kind of see that all come to fruition,” Chetkof said of her happy disbelief when she was told by high school Principal Brendan Mitchell that she was the valedictorian.

She is heading to Duke University in the fall to study mechanical engineering, and Chetkof said that OHS’s technology programs helped nurture her love of engineering and physics.

“Something I always wanted was a blend between engineering and the humanities,” Chetkof said. “I saw that engineering could

Continued on page 6

Paymer’s parents, Marvin and Sylvia, played the first significant role in nurturing his artistic inclination. His father, a pianist and composer, and his mother, a playwright, collaborated on community shows that often raised money for the Oceanside Library in the early 1960s.

Growing up, David watched his father play piano in productions, while his mother acted and produced alongside Artie Iger, who lived two doors down

and whose son, Robert, is now chief executive of the Walt Disney Company. Together they put on a show called, “Oceanside USA,” which was modeled after the Broadway hit “Oklahoma.”

At School No. 8, Paymer’s musical and acting journey began under the guidance of music teacher Herb Rothgarber. Encouraged by Rothgarber, Paymer explored the piano, bells and glockenspiel, developing a multifaceted musical skill set.

“He was an inspiration,” Paymer said of Rothgarber. “He was just the best teacher I ever had. He inspired his students.” Paymer performed in musicals including “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Oklahoma.” On opening night, he recalled, Rothgarber would gather the cast and say, “Tonight’s your night — go out there and make magic.” That, Paymer said, was the first time “that I was sort of recognized for actually being good at anything.”

Continued on page 7

Karina Kovac/Herald

lINdSAy CHEtkof ANd Michael Caine are the Oceanside High School Class of 2023 valedictorian and salutatorian.

things worked out for me, and somehow I think that Oceanside had a lot to do with it.

dAVId PAymER actor

H.S. students win international video award

By KARINA KOVAC kkovac@liherald.com

Four Oceanside High School students have won a Silver Award in the 44th annual Telly Awards, an international program recognizing excellence in video and television across a variety of platforms. The award was presented in the Non-Broadcast: General-Student area of competition for Unmatched Talent, a student film written, directed, filmed, and edited by Tim Kunken and Bora Sever.

It features Sever and Thomas Biamonte as actors with Peter Arapas as the production assistant. The students were assigned a project by their media teacher, Tracy Busk, to create a film featuring a dream sequence. The students interpreted the concept of a dream metaphorically to create a film about what it takes to be successful in the arts. Sever was the ‘dreamer’ hoping for a career in music to Biamonte’ role as the judge.

“Bora got the inspiration from being in (the OHS production) of Fame,” said Biamonte, “We all had a say in creating the story, bouncing ideas off each other, choosing the songs...” Biamonte, a senior, will attend the University of Hartford in the fall.

Parts of the video were filmed in Sever’s room, where Kunken, who plans to study cinematogra-

phy at Syracuse University, made use of the dream-like afternoon sun streaming through horizontal blinds. Arapas said the group worked as a team to create the story and he also helped set up shots, including zooming in at one part and flashing spotlights during the dance sequence. Arapas will be pursuing a trade after high school.

In addition to acting, Sever also worked with his co-creators to write, storyboard and pre-edit how they wanted the story to go. “Later things didn’t end up the same way as we planned,” he said, which is of course part of the creative process. Sever will be attending the SUNY Purchase conservatory where he plans to study editing and sound design.

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards are a major industry-standard award recognizing the finest film and video productions, groundbreaking web commercials, and outstanding local, regional, and cable TV commercials and programs from around the world.

Entries are judged by members of the Telly Award Judging Council, composed of more than 200 industry-leading experts. Submissions are graded against a high standard of excellence under the criteria of content, quality of message, production and execution, and overall experience. More than 12,000 entries to the Telly’s are received each year.

Courtesy Oceanside school district WINNeRs TIm KuNKeN, Thomas Biamonte, Peter Arapas, with their media teacher Tracy Busk, and Bora Sever, seated, in the Oceanside High School Broadcast Room. The students earned a international Silver Telly Award for their student-created film called Unmatched Talent.

O’side turns red, white and blue on Memorial Day

With American flags hoisted in the air the residents of Oceanside paid tribute to those who’s names are forever enshrined in history as those who bravely perished during wartime. On a picturesque day, the community was led in the annual Memorial Day parade by the Chwatsky Jewish War Veterans Post 717 along the vibrant streets with flags, organization banners and poppies. After the parade, a moving Memorial Day service was given at the Oceanside High School war veterans memorial.

Oceanside fire deparTMenT Terrace Hose and Chemical Company No. 3 marched in the annual Oceanside Memorial Day parade.

The Oceanside MeMOrial Day parade ended, upper left, at Oceanside High School where a Memorial Service was held for those who perished in war.

sTudenTs frOM Oaks School No. 3 and Fulton Avenue School No. 8 proudly displayed their school banners on the somber day.

Girl scOuT TrOOp 2228 of Oceanside were in force marching down the Oceanside streets for Memorial Day.

— Karina Kovac

Photos by Stephanie Bier/Herald

Ponzi scheme setup defrauds investors of millions

John Quadrino was sentenced to more than three years in prison and shell out more than $3.3 million after admitting in court he devised a Ponzi scheme to help maintain his gambling habit.

The sentence was handed down by District Judge Joan Azrack on May 25, as part of a case that accused the 57-year-old Oceanside man of funneling money through companies called Princess Cut Industries, Sassy Jewelry Buyers and Golden Glitter Trading — a group collectively referred to as the “gold purchasing companies” by prosecutors.

Quadrino told investors if they put money in, he would buy gold, jewelry and diamonds. In reality, Quadrino never invested any money, and instead used it to issue checks to himself and to pay for his personal gambling expenses.

He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to commit wire fraud in April 2018

Quadrino asked investors for large sums of money in exchange for a guaranteed, fixed rate of return. However, Quadrino never actually purchased gold, jewelry or diamonds

in any significant quantities.

Instead, he methodically engaged in what the FBI called a classic Ponzi scheme over the course of five years, returning investor principal and interest from the investor capital of other victims. As a result, investors invested approximately $13.1 million with Quadrino, and suffered losses of about $3.3 million.

“The defendant blatantly stole the money of hard-working men and women in our community for the sole purpose of enriching himself until his Ponzi scheme collapsed under the weight of his lies,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace, in a release. “Today’s prison sentence punishes the defendant for the financial ruin he has inflicted on investors who had trusted him.”

“Dozens of investors handed over their savings to this defendant based on empty promises,” Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly said, in a release.

“In the end, he personally spent and gambled away millions of dollars of their hard-earned money,” Donnelly said.

— Karina Kovac

John Quadrino, 57, of Oceanside was sentenced to 41 months in prison and to pay $3.3 million in restitution after running a Ponzi scheme for five years that defrauded investors of approximately $13.1 million.

Qualifying for Medicaid to Pay for Long-Term Care

Spend-down. Look-back. Penalty Period. Uncompensated Transfer. These are just some of the terms Medicaid uses to determine eligibility for long-term care coverage. Medicaid is a combined federal and state program that pays for long-term care at home (community Medicaid) or in a nursing facility (institutional Medicaid). Asset, income and gift rules vary for community Medicaid versus institutional Medicaid.

To qualify for community Medicaid, an individual cannot make more than about $1,700 per month and cannot own more than about $30,000 in assets. A married couple cannot make more than about $2,300 per month and cannot own more than about $40,000 in assets. Applicants can “spend down” excess income to the allowed amount by paying for medical expenses.

To qualify for institutional Medicaid, an individual can keep $50 per month (the excess goes to the nursing home) and cannot own more than about $30,000 in assets. For married couples, the spouse at home can keep about $3,700 per month and can own between about

$75,000 and $130,000 in assets. If the spouse at home makes more than $3,700 per month, she may have to contribute some of the excess to the spouse’s cost of care. For married couples, the residence, up to value of about $1,000,000 and one car are exempt (not counted as assets). Everyone can have a burial trust worth up to $1,500 or any amount in an irrevocable pre-paid funeral trust.

Community Medicaid and institutional Medicaid also differ in “look-back” and gift rules. An institutional Medicaid application asks if you transferred (gifted) any assets in the last five years, hence the “five-year look-back period.” If the answer is yes, the transfer creates a penalty period, which causes a period of ineligibility for Medicaid coverage.

Community Medicaid does not currently have a look-back period, so you may transfer assets out of your name this month and qualify for Medicaid next month. New York is considering imposing a new thirty month lookback for community care in 2024. Now is the time to act to protect your assets.

Open Houses

Wednesday, May 3

Bridgeview Yacht Club, Island Park

11 a.m. – 2 p.m., 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Thursday, June 8

Allegria Hotel, Long Beach

11 a.m. – 2 p.m., 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Please Join Us!

We are excited to welcome you to Equinor’s upcoming Empire Wind Open Houses. Join us at one or more of the events to meet one-on-one with project experts to learn more about offshore wind, and about the Empire Wind project.

The Empire Wind projects are being developed with a robust approach to community engagement to ensure public input is considered in project planning. These open houses will provide the community with an opportunity to ask questions, contribute ideas, and visit with project experts.

An activity table will be available for children attending with their parents or guardians. Spanish interpretation services will be available, and light refreshments will be served.

A link to a virtual version of the open houses will be provided at www.empirewind.com/community/communityevents/

For more information and to register to attend, scan the QR code.

We look forward to seeing you there!

www.empirewind.com

Chetkof and Caine lead through positivity

really play a role in influencing the entire world on every front, and I think having both those angles from it is going to really allow me to kind of make that difference.”

Chetkof said her parents encouraged and emphasized the importance of education, but it was her need to be competitive that drove her to become number one.

When she came to high school, she had the option to either take a music, art or engineering class. Having hated playing the violin, she knew that wasn’t an option and instead took advantage of the exemplary technology programs.

In addition to her academics, Chetkof’s involvement in extracurricular activities reflects her commitment to making a difference. She dedicated her time to multiple pursuits, including being a Limb Kind Foundation junior board member, Community Activists Recovering Earth Club president, interning as a research assistant in the Hofstra Summer Science Research Program, and at Operation Splash in Freeport.

Michael Caine

“My ideology was I’m going to work as hard as I get. And if it’s it, it’s it. If not, I worked hard, and it’s going to pay off eventually,” Caine said. “And we’ll see how that goes.”

It clearly paid off. He is headed to Union College/ Albany Medical College on an eight-year leadership program in Medicine and Health Management with the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon.

Caine didn’t have the same motivation from his parents as Chetkof, but more of an overall focus on trying his best coupled with his own drive to improve himself while finding a work/life balance. One piece of advice his mother told him was to “try your hardest,” and if he

were to get into an eight-year program, she’d recommend doing it. Which he did.

In third grade, Caine told his mother, who’s an obstetrician and gynecologist that he wanted to be a doctor. “As cliché as it will be (my mother is) a hero, my hero, my idol,” Caine said, “When she’s helping people bringing people into the world, (being) the first people they see, I was fascinated. I wanted to be a doctor and I didn’t know what type until now.”

Caine’s impressive achievements extend beyond academics. As co-president of the National Honor Society and president of Mu Alpha Theta, he exemplifies leadership and dedication. Additionally, he served as the class president, actively participated in the Natural Helpers program, and founded the Let’s All Game Charity, while also enrolled in courses through Columbia University and Stanford University.

Being a positive influence

Both Chetkof and Caine will address their fellow graduates at the OHS graduation ceremony June 23. They share a similar message about influencing the community through kindness, character and lending a helping hand.

Chetkof said she’d like to be remembered not only as valedictorian, but a good person who always included everyone in activities, especially during the annual sports night. “I want to be someone who creates a community that people want to be a part of,” she said, “that people come to, because it’s somewhere that people feel comfortable going to, that they can be themselves and

really feel accepted and I hope I did that here.”

Caine shared a similar sentiment, saying he’s always thought, “People don’t really care about how smart, how athletic you are. People want to be around a good person, someone who’s humble by themselves, someone who recognizes what they’re at and seeks to help others. Does not brag, does not hold themselves to a higher standard because we’re all on the same level.”

Karina Kovac/Herald Brendon MitChell, the Oceanside High School principal, told Lindsay Chetkof and Michael Caine the happy news.

David Paymer credits local upbringing

Continued from front page

At the high school, Paymer’s passion for acting bloomed under the mentorship of drama teacher Barry Kaplan, now a well-known actor and director. Describing Kaplan as his greatest inspiration, Paymer recalled his ability to motivate and inspire his students.

Years later, when Paymer revisited his role as Stan Young in the Broadway production of “Mr. Saturday Night” — alongside the show’s star Long Beach native Billy Crystal — Paymer was both excited and nervous. That was because Kaplan was in the audience.

Reflecting on his career, Paymer said he considers himself a character actor in the best sense of the word. “That is,” he explained, because “I can be chameleonlike, and I don’t just play one type. Sometimes I’m the lawyer, sometimes I’m the doctor, sometimes I’m the heroin addict, sometimes I’m some crazy person. I get to play good guys, bad guys, in-between guys. … I was never an ingénue. (Barry) allowed me to try on different parts, and I had a pretty good range.”

While Paymer’s parents initially envisioned him pursuing a medical career, he was captivated by acting when he found consistent work in his early 20s. At the University of Michigan, he double majored in theater and psychology, with the latter as a backup plan.

After his graduation in 1976, Paymer would frequently take the Long Island Rail Road into the city for opencall auditions. At just 22, he earned the role of Sonny in both the national tour and Broadway production of “Grease.” A year later performing as Sonny still, but now on the Broadway stage, it truly sank in to him that he was a real actor.

Another pivotal moment in Paymer’s career came when he landed a part in the 1991 film “City Slickers,” starring Crystal. During the shoot, they bonded over having grown up on the South Shore, and developed a

friendship. At the time, Crystal was writing “Mr. Saturday Night,” and without Paymer knowing, he was Crystal’s first choice for the role of the brotherly Young in the movie, for which Paymer was nominated for an Academy Award for best supporting actor in 1992.

“Things worked out for me,” he told the Herald, “and somehow, I think that Oceanside had a lot to do with it. … I don’t think things would have turned out the same if I had grown up somewhere else. I needed to meet Rothgarber and Barry Kaplan and do those shows, learn

david paymer

reCeived a Founders Award from the Oceanside Library last year for his contribution to enriching the library and community.

about acting that way, at least initially. Then, somehow, it all put me in the right place at the right time.”

Paymer’s advice for aspiring actors is that it’s good to have a backup plan for the future, but you must pursue your passion, too.

He spoke of bringing truth to a performance, and emphasized the importance of actors’ drawing from personal experiences and emotions while bringing honesty to their performances. The most challenging role he has had to play, Paymer said, is himself.

Courtesy Oceanside Library

Remembering the fallen and honoring legends

The Village of Island Park honored its many fallen soldiers on Memorial Day, followed by the rededication of Masone Beach after World War II veteran, former Superintendent of Public Works for 73 years and Island Park Fire Department member for 62 years Michael Masone. Hundreds of residents, organizations and public officials paraded down the Island Park streets and then to the beach for the ceremony.

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito sent a statement to the Herald about his hometown Memorial Day celebration, “Island Park is an incredible community full of proud neighbors who always go above and beyond to honor the lives of brave American military servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our country. I am proud to represent such a patriotic community on Capitol Hill.”

D’Esposito always reflected on the life of Masone, “Michael Masone was an incredible man whose legacy continues to leave an overwhelmingly positive mark here in Island Park. Today, I wear his ex. Chief’s badge, and I am absolutely elated that we are rededicating Masone Beach in his honor.”

Island Park mayor Michael McGinty said, “Our annual Memorial Day Parade is a beautiful yet somber day, our whole community pauses and says thank you to all those who have laid down their lives for our freedoms. I am always taken aback at how our whole Island Park family realizes the importance and significance of this day.”

He said of Masone, “Honoring Michael Masone after the Memorial Day Parade is so very fitting, ‘Uncle Mike’ was a valiant WWII veteran and spent weeks before Memorial Day Weekend planning and getting our village ready for the parade. Growing up we called him ‘The Hawk,’ he didn’t miss a beat! I remember my days as a lifeguard on the beach, when Uncle Mike was around everyone was on their best behavior.”

Past U.S. Senator Alfonse D’Amato was also in attendance, he stated, “The Island Park Memorial Day Parade is a terrific homecoming for me. I’ve marched in this parade almost every year, and all these years later the true meaning of the day, our fallen service members, is at the forefront of the minds of the participants.”

He called Masone, “the heart and soul of Island Park, he truly lived out what it is to be an Island Parker. He never stopped, if there was something to be done, or someone who needed help Mike was there. He was a great friend, and helped so many young people of the community, always ready to give another chance and teach another lesson. We have to make sure his legacy lives on.”

— Karina Kovac

photos by Daniel Tommasino/Herald

Hundreds of Island Park residents paraded through the streets in honor of Memorial Day.

BoB WIlson, top left, the Island Park village coordinator of veteran activities spoke about the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Island Park village mayor Michael McGinty, seated, applauded the speech.

rodrIgo Crafa WItH U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito who wore Michael Masone’s ex. Chiefs’ badge at the rededication.

after tHe MeMorIal Day parade Island Park officials rededicated Masone Beach to former Superintendent of Public Works, Fire Department member and World War II veteran Michael Masone, who was instrumental in the village’s history.

In a MoMent of silence, left, Island Park residents young and old reflected on those who gave their life for their country.

Herald ScHoolS

Senior breakfast serves up food and talent

The recreation department of Island Park Public Schools recently held its annual Spring Senior Citizen Breakfast. Guests were invited to attend this year’s event held in the all-purpose room of Lincoln Orens Middle School and were treated to a breakfast buffet prepared by the food services staff.

Participants enjoyed a morning of friendship and music. Select members of the Lincoln Orens Middle School seventh and eighth grade band performed for the group followed up by the third and fourth grade chorus from Francis X. Hegarty Elementary.

The recreation department of Island Park Public Schools recently held its highly anticipated annual Spring Senior Citizen Breakfast, a delightful event that brings together the community’s seniors and showcases the talented students of the district. The morning was filled with warmth, laughter, and a shared appreciation for the intergenerational connections that make Island Park such a special place.

One of the highlights of the morning was the delectable breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, sizzling bacon, and fluffy pancakes wafted through the air. The buffet was a culinary delight, offering an array of delicious options to satisfy every palate.

In addition to the scrumptious meal, the event featured performances by the district’s young musicians. Seniors were served by students and serenaded by the seventh and eighth grade band.

Following the band’s performance, it was the turn of the third and fourth grade chorus

from Francis X. Hegarty Elementary to captivate the crowd.

The Spring Senior Citizen Breakfast not only provided a delightful morning of entertainment and gastronomic delights, but it also served as a reminder of the importance of honoring and appreciating our seniors.

Island Park Public Schools and its dedicated recreation department understand the significance of nurturing these relationships, and they continue to create opportunities for the community to come together and celebrate the wisdom, experiences, and contributions of their beloved senior citizens.

As the event drew to a close, the seniors departed with smiles on their faces, grateful for the heartwarming memories they had made and the special moments they had shared with the talented students.

The Spring Senior Citizen Breakfast had once again proven to be a resounding success, leaving everyone eagerly looking forward to next year’s gathering, where new connections will be forged and cherished memories will continue to be made.

— Karina Kovac

Courtesy of Island Park Public Schools

Island Park senIor Citizens enjoyed a breakfast event hosted by the Island Park Public Schools recreation department at Lincoln Orens Middle School.

select members of the Lincoln Orens Middle School seventh and eighth grade band performed at the annual breakfast.

STEPPING OUT

by the basketful

Adventures await in local strawberry fields

By Karen Bloom

Get outside and get pickin’. Strawberry season has arrived, and those luscious berries beckon. So gather up your gang and venture out to one of the many “u-pick” growers for a day in the berry patch.

Strawberry season reaches its peak here with the transition from spring to summer, as the fruit grows and ripen throughout May and June. Of course, local is always best, so skip the California and Florida fruit from the supermarket and pick your own.

When you return with your bounty, settle in to whip up some yummy strawberry treats. These fresh gems are always terrific on their own, of course. But when used in a recipe? They’ll jazz up any meal.

in strawberry puree until blended. Pour batter into cooled pan. Bake cheesecake about 1 hour 20 minutes, or until edges are just set and center jiggles slightly. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack 5 minutes.

Stir together sour cream and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in a medium bowl. Spread sour cream mixture on top of cheesecake in an even layer. Return to oven and bake 5 minutes longer. Turn oven off and prop the door ajar with the handle of a wooden spoon. Let cool in oven 1 hour. Remove from oven and cool completely. Place in refrigerator and chill until cold throughout, 4 to 6 hours, or overnight.

Using the remaining strawberries, halve them and arrange in concentric circles on top of cheesecake to serve.

Iris DeMent

The Americana singer-songwriter Iris DeMent visits the Landmark stage with her timeless songs blending traditional folk, country and gospel influences. With an inimitable voice as John Prine described, ‘like you’ve heard, but not really,’ and unforgettable melodies rooted in hymns and old country music, Iris DeMent is considered one of the finest singer-songwriters in America today. Praised for her storytelling and songwriting abilities, her career has spanned more than three decades, seven studio albums, and collaborations with Prine, Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle, among others. On her new record, ‘Workin’ On A World,’ DeMent faces the modern world — as it is right now — with its climate catastrophe, pandemic and epidemic of violence and social injustice — and implores us to love each other, despite our very different ways of seeing.

Friday, June 9, 8 p.m. $43, $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444, or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

• 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1-1/2 cups sugar

• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

• 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 2 pounds rhubarb, strings removed, stalks cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices

Double Strawberry Cheesecake

A classic cheesecake takes on added flavor with the addition of some luscious berries.

Graham cracker crust

• 1-1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9-1/2 crackers)

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Filling and topping

• 16 ounces strawberries

• 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature

• 1-1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup sour cream

Prepare graham cracker crust:

Preheat oven to 350° F. Stir graham cracker crumbs, melted butter and sugar together in a medium bowl. Press into bottom and at least 1-inch up sides of a 9-inch non-stick springform pan (if pan is not nonstick, brush first with melted butter). Bake until crust is golden brown, about 12 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack. Reduce oven to 300° F.

Then prepare filling and topping:

Hull 1/2 of the strawberries and puree in a blender or food processor. You should have about 3/4 cup puree. Beat cream cheese and 1-1/4 cups sugar in an electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment on low speed until smooth. Beat in vanilla until well combined. Add eggs, 1 at a time, on low speed, beating well after each addition, and scraping sides of bowl as needed. Beat

• 4 pints strawberries, sliced

Preheat an oven to 375°F.

In a food processor, pulse together 1-1/2 cups of the flour, 3/4 cup of the sugar and the salt until combined. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Add the oats and pulse to combine. Transfer to a bowl.

In another bowl, stir together the rhubarb, strawberries, the remaining 1/4 cup flour, and the remaining 3/4 cup sugar.

Spread the fruit filling in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Using your fingers, press the topping into large clumps and scatter it over the fruit. Bake until the fruit is bubbling and the topping is golden and crisp, about 1 hour. Alternatively, divide the fruit and topping among eight 1/2-cup ramekins and bake for 30 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Serves 6 to 8.

Strawberry Smoothie

• 1 cup coconut milk (or almond milk or your preferred milk)

• 1 cup strawberries (tops removed)

• 1 banana

• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks

Combine all of your ingredients in your blender in the order that they are listed (liquid on the bottom and frozen on top). Blend until smooth.

His ‘Bronx Tale’

Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage with his solo version of ‘A Bronx Tale.’ The powerful one-man stage play depicts his bruising childhood, which included witnessing a gangland killing in the Bronx when he was 9. Palminteri plays 18 characters — friends, enemies and family all come alive on stage. ‘A Bronx Tale’ became a hit after he wrote it in 1989, and the most sought after property since ‘Rocky.’ This is the original show he wrote and performed that made him an in-demand character actor and served as the basis of the acclaimed movie and Broadway musical. In the tradition set forth in the 1970s by such icons as director Martin Scorsese and actors Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci, Palminteri has brought grit, muscle and an evocative realism to the sidewalks of his New York neighborhood, violent as they are and were.

Sunday, June 11, 7:30 p.m., $99.50, $89.50, $79.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Visit Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY. com for tickets/information.

June 23

June 8

The Bacon Brothers

That ‘Footloose’ feeling comes alive when Kevin Bacon takes to the stage, Friday, June 23, 8 p.m., as one-half of the Bacon Brothers, at The Space at Westbury. Bound by blood and a mutual love of American roots music, Michael and Kevin Bacon have spent the past quarter-century in a creative whirl, funneling their shared DNA into a genre-bending sound. They call that sound “Forosoco” — a blend of folk, rock, soul, and country influences, delivered by two songwriters who were born to collaborate — and it’s taken the siblings across the world, from shows in Japan to performances at American landmarks like Carnegie Hall and the Grand Ole Opry. The Bacon Brothers turn a new page with their 11th release, “Erato,” whose five songs showcase the duo’s dynamic contrasts: quiet moments and big payoffs, organic instrumentation and electronic textures, self-penned songs and high-profile collaborations. Ticket are $45-$80; available at TheSpaceAtWestbury.com. The Space, 250 Post Ave. Westbury.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s exhibition, “Eye And Mind: The Shin Collection,” highlights the extraordinary collection masterworks assembled by 31-year-old connoisseur Hong Gyu Shin, an internationally recognized figure in the global art world. He shares his treasures, including works by Whistler, Lautrec, Boucher, Daumier, Delacroix, Klimt, Schiele, Balthus, Warhol, de Kooning, Gorky and many other important names from art history provocatively juxtaposed with the painting and sculpture of our own time from both Asia and the West. On view through July 9. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Breastfeeding Support Group

Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year). Registration required. Call Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 7052434 or visit CHSLI.org. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre.

Community, Belonging and Wellness Day

Learn about available community resources, Saturday, June 10, 10 to noon. Oceanside High School track, 3160 Skillman Ave.

Oceanside chamber summer mixer

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce presents their second annual Kickoff to Summer Mixer, June 28, 6 to 9 p.m. Mingle at EGP Oceanside, enjoy live music with Mark & Ali from Permission to Launch, passed hors d’oeuvres, salad and pasta station, dessert and a cash bar. $50. 2823 Long Beach Road.

June 28

June 12

Summer gazebo readings

The Oceanside Library and Kiwanis Club of Oceanside have begun their 17th seasonal summer gazebo readings. Four published authors and poets read from their works, Monday, June 12, at the Schoolhouse Green. Foxhurst Road, across from the firehouse. Bring your lawn chair or blankets.In the event of inclement weather, the readings will be held virtually and the Zoom link can be found at OceansideLibrary.com.

Volunteer mentors needed

The R.E.E.F. program is looking for volunteers 18 years or older to work alongside adults with diverse abilities. The program is hosted at the Oceanside Library bi-weekly and will focus on diving into life skills in a fun way. There is a Google form at OceansideLibrary.com.

Tai Chi classes

Tai Chi is offered at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Monday Wednesday, Saturday, 1375 Grand Ave., Baldwin. Email forevertaichi4you@gmail.com.

Whale of a Drink fundraiser

Celebrate Israel

June 11

Salute Israel and celebrate the nation’s 75 years of independence, while welcoming Eisenhower Park’s summer concert season, when Sid Jacobson JCC joins the Jewish Community Relations Council of Long Island for IsraelFest, Sunday, June 11 Enjoy family activities, 4-6 p.m., followed by concert with Israeli pop singer-songwriter Harel Skatt, 6-8 p.m. The Long Island Cantors Ensemble also performs. Bring seating. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. For more information, visit SJJCC.org/israelfest.

Support

The Whaling Museum by participating in Sandbar restaurant’s Whale of a Drink, Whale of a Cause fundraising effort, now through June 21 Enjoy the Sandbar’s iconic cocktail, the Whalebone, and a portion of the purchase will be donated to the museum. A “mocktail” version is also available. To help promote the fundraiser, mixologist Dan Leopold will offer a mixology demonstration and Whalebone tasting at the Museum’s Whales & Ales event on June 3, 2:30-3 p.m. Funds will support the Whaling Museum’s community education programs during its 2023 summer season. 55 Main St, Cold Spring Harbor. For information, visit SandbarColdSpringHarbor.com.

Teen drop-in

Looking for a relaxing place to hang out and meet new people? Drop by the Oceanside Library Community Room, every Friday, from 4 to 6 p.m. to make new memories. Come alone or with friends. Craft supplies, games and snacks will be available. 56 Atlantic Ave. Visit OceansideLibrary.com for info.

St. Anthony’s Feast

St. Anthony’s Church hosts an Oceanside tradition, Thursday June 8, 6 to 10 p.m., Friday, June 9, 6 to 11 p.m., Saturday, June 10, 4 to 11 pm., and Sunday, June 11, at 2 to 9 p.m. Enjoy rides, food and fun at one of the largest festivals on the South Shore. 88 Anchor Ave., Oceanside.

On stage

Families will enjoy another musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, June 9, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Wednesday through Friday, June 14-16, 10:15 a.m. and noon. This

musical comedy adventure

stars Willems’ beloved character The Pigeon, who is eager to try anything and everything. When a bus driver takes a break from the route, a very unlikely volunteer springs up to take the driver’s place — a pigeon. The audience is part of the action, in this innovative mix of songs, silliness and feathers. $9 with museum admission ($7 members), $12 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

‘The Beautiful and Damned’

Enjoy a musical interpretation of the classic novel at Westbury House, Friday, June 9, 7-10 p.m. Before there was Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote “The Beautiful and Damned”: a story that delves into the psychological tribulations of, at first, having everything you’ve ever wanted. What first presents itself as a beautiful love story quickly turns harrowing as the characters struggle to keep themselves afloat. As New York City tumbles into the Jazz Age, Fitzgerald’s characters tumble down a financial and psychological spiral they may never recover from. This adaptation by Long Island native Brooke Di Spirito combines Fitzgerald’s meticulously detailed novel with the elements of a stage musical: a brand new script, score, choreography. Reservations required. $40. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.

June 9

SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is the nation’s largest youth employment program, connecting the Town of Hempstead (TOH) and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20 with career exploration opportunities and paid work experience each summer.

By participating in structured project and work-based opportunities, Long Island youth are better prepared for careers of the future.

WHAT THE PROGRAM OFFERS

Career Exploration: Hone your research skills and uncover exciting new career possibilities.

Structured Work-based Opportunities: If you're a TOH and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20, you can get paid to learn about different careers and make a positive impact in your community through work-based activities.

Work Experiences: TOH and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20 can develop job readiness skills and explore diverse career pathways through paid summer jobs in various industries throughout Nassau County.

Earn Money: Don't miss out on the chance to earn money while gaining valuable experience and exploring your career options!

WORKSITE PARTNERS

Partner with the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) at HempsteadWorks and provide valuable work experience to youth while expanding your business's staff at no cost. The program pays participant wages in full, so there's no financial burden on the hosting employer. As a SYEP worksite, you can play a vital role in the region's economic development and access a pool of talented, hyperlocal youth who are the future workforce.

Please review the important information below for details on this summer's program.

SYEP 2023:

Participants can work up to 30 hours per week

Rate of pay is $16 per hour, paid by the TOH Participants go through physical clearance and drug screening

Worksite Responsibilities:

Ensuring youth time and attendance procedures are followed, and the timesheets are complete and accurate Supervision of participants, along with guidance and training as appropriate Monitoring youth attendance, punctuality, and job performance

Don Clavin Supervisor

Are you an ambivert?

As with any dual classification system (smart-stupid, shy-outgoing), most people don’t definitively fit into one category - even if others believe they do. You may be a smart psychologist, yet a really stupid physicist. (Umm, do you imagine I’m talking about me?) Or, you may be shy in one environment, yet outgoing in another.

Personality traits exist on a spectrum. It’s true that some people fall closer to the extremes, most of us, however, are somewhere in the middle. Hence, though others may perceive you as an extrovert, you alone – since you know what’s going on inside of you – may identify as an introvert.

It could be that:

many friends like extroverts do. Only a few friends, but that’s fine with you. You don’t need lots of people in your life; two or three special friendships will do.

Person to Person

■ When people cancel plans, you often feel more relieved than disappointed. You now have free time. No worries about the details of getting together. Now you’ll have time to be alone or have quiet time with that special someone in your life.

■ You enjoy being social. You like spending time with friends. But every night? Not a chance. It’s simply too much people time, not enough alone time.

■ You may be enjoying yourself, still yakety, yak, yak talk drains your energy. As the conversation goes on, you’re thinking about how to make a quick exit. Calm environments appeal to you. Loud noise, frenetic energy, and lots of people overwhelm you.

■ You often feel anxious before an event, worrying about who will be there, who to talk to, what to wear, etc. This anxiety may stretch out to the event itself. Yet, as the event progresses, you usually warm up to people. When people respond positively to you, you relax and reveal more of the extraverted part of your personality.

■ Though you like people, you don’t have

■ When you’re with people you’re comfortable with, chatting away on topics you’re interested in, you’ll appear to be an extrovert. You may even enjoy being the center of attention, as some conversations energize you. Yet you know in many social situations, you prefer to be quiet, as you’re really more of an introvert.

If you’re relating to my description of introverts that people think are extroverts, know there’s a word that describes you. No, it’s not confused or befuddled. It’s an ambivert. Not an introvert or an extrovert but someone in the middle. An excellent place to be, I believe, since those who occupy the extremes create problems for themselves and others. So smile, you ambivert! And appreciate who you really are!

©2023

Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives and overcome procrastination and fear. Contact her at DrSapadin@aol.com. Visit her website at www.PsychWisdom.com.

news brief

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito’s bill passes

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito had announced the passage of his Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights proposal in the House of Representatives. The proposal, which includes sweeping pro-police policies designed to support law enforcement officers currently serving the public, received bipartisan support with 62 House democrats joining 206 House republicans in advancing the measure.

“I am proud that my Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights proposal was passed in the House of Representatives in

a bipartisan fashion,” he stated in a press release, “and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to similarly unite and approve the measure in their chamber.”

As a retired NYPD Detective, I have seen firsthand the difficulties of policing, and this legislative package is a major step forward in providing law enforcement officers with greater safeguards.”

D’Esposito’s Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights is a wide-ranging pro-police bill, that calls for several protective measures to be afforded to local law enforcement.

Linda Sapadin

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: McAlli, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 07/29/2022. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 2937 Cleveland Avenue, Oceanside, NY 11572

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

139329

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

Mortgage Assets Management, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Nassau County Public Administrator, as Limited Administrator of the Estate of Lucille Continanzi; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 12, 2023 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 22, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 3207 Oceanside Road, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 54. Block 526 Lot 42. Approximate amount of judgment

$530,483.27 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 006949/2015. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Janine Lynam, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: April 28, 2023

139540

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC, Plaintiff, vs. MARGARET M. KRAEMER, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 9, 2023, I, the undersigned

Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 26, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 38 Chester Court, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 397 and Lot 15.

Approximate amount of judgment is $657,767.74 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 611083/2021. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Peter Kramer, Esq., Referee (516) 510-4020 Greenspoon Marder, 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022, Attorneys for Plaintiff 139699

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust, Inc.

2007-AHL1, Asset-Backed PassThrough Certificates Series 2007-AHL1, Plaintiff AGAINST Michael Palmeri; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 17, 2019 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 5, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 3068 Xavier Place, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, at Oceanside, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 54 Block 507 Lot 13.

Approximate amount of judgment $920,711.22 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 000590/2017. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Darrem

LLP

Arthur Aronow, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group

f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624

(877) 430-4792

Dated: April 27, 2023

139814

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. JSU PROPERTIES LLC, et al, Defts. Index #603435/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered January 11, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the north front steps of Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY July 6, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 43, Block 220, Lot 147. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. 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 auction. LOUIS B. IMBROTO, Referee.

LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #100416

139807

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 6/14/23 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 389/23. OCEANSIDEFaron Tomlinson, Variance, side yard, construct wood deck with stairs attached to dwelling., S/s Elaine Dr., 75’ E/o Fulton Ave., a/k/a 109 Elaine Dr. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in Oceanside within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available

at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.

139916

Honoring Memorial Day

By donna pisacano-Brown Guest columnist

As I stand before the cherished family photos gracing my living room wall, my heart immediately fills with deep gratitude, respect, love and honor for the brave, young men in our family who served in WWI and WWII. Emotion, followed by unmeasurable gratitude in tribute all the countless numbers of brave, young souls who served all throughout America’s history; so many who made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our country.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE IN TRUST FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I TRUST

2006-HE6, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-HE6, Plaintiff, vs. THOMAS COCCHIOLA, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 7, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 11, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 181 Nassau Parkway, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 142 and Lot 456. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,159,297.51 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #6777/2014. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff

139919

Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War II, the Vietnam War, the Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Yet, as we honor the bravery of our military men and women throughout history, the truth is, so many of their heroic stories will never be told or heard. Stories, I often find myself pondering, especially when thinking about the young men in our family who served during WWI and WWII, including those who came to America as Italian immigrants. A historical part of their young lives that I sadly do not recall any of our family members talking about in depth, espe-

cially relating to the emotions they experienced. But today is a different day and we must ensure our veterans have a voice, especially relating to mental health, for according to statistics shared, 1 in 3 veterans live with post-traumatic stress disorder known as PTSD and feel they do not get the mental health services they need. To address what was once called in earlier years, “soldier’s heart,” “shell shock,” or “combat fatigue.”

national Moment of remembrance

The meaning of Memorial Day and history couldn’t be complete without the birth of the “National Moment of Remembrance”, which was a resolution passed on December 2000, asking that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans “To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to ‘Taps.”

The History of the Memorial day red poppy

The poppy as a symbol of war casualties started with a poem. In the spring of 1915, a Canadian artillery unit brigade surgeon named Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae saw bright-red poppies blooming on the war-torn fields where so many soldiers had lost their lives. The sight moved him to write the famous poem “In Flanders Fields.”

On a personal note: As we celebrate Memorial Day with parades and holiday festivities, may we ponder these words, by President Harry S. Truman,“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude.”

Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident and has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunk driving awareness and shining a light on mental health topics.

news brief

School No. 4 celebrates all types of careers

School No. 4 kicked off its Career Week with a motivational Harlem Wizards assembly. Theme days throughout the week kept the spirit going, including “Dress for Success Day,” “Career Dress Up Day,” and “College Apparel Day.”

The week culminated with a Career Fair, with almost 20 parents coming in to talk with students about their jobs, among them a dentist, a fire marshal, an attorney, and a CEO, to name a few.

Donna PisacanoBrown

Courtesy Oceanside school district

BenjaMin and jesse at School No. 4 had their dad speak about his career.

DRIVERS WANTED

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS NOW HIRING !!

No Experience Necessary. Flexible Hours. Paid Training.

Requir ements: Valid NYS Driver's License High Sc hool Diploma or GED Complete Bac kground Screening Community Mainstreaming (CMA) www.communitymainstreaming.org | 516-683-0710, ext 256

Assistant Secondary Principal

The successful candidate should possess: Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record of successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social-emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate.

Salary Range: $95,000 to $105,000

NYS SDA/SDL/SBL Certification Required plus 3 yrs. exp. as a classroom teacher preferred.

Please apply online by June 15th at https://monticelloschools.tedk12.com/hire

DRIVING

OUTSIDE SALES

Assistant Elementary Principal

The successful candidate should possess:

Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record of successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social-emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate.

Salary Range: $95,000 to $105,000

NYS SDA/SDL/SBL Certification Required plus 3 yrs. exp as a classroom teacher preferred.

Please apply online by June 15th at https://monticelloschools.tedk12.com/hire or OLAS EOE

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 COOK: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday 10am-6pm. Sandwiches/ Salads. Beach Restaurant. Great Summer Job. 516-835-2819

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

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Salary, Commission, Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Will Consider Part Time. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

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

UP TO $20.70 NYC, $20.00 L.I., $16.20

Upstate NY! If you need care from your relative, friend/ neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA Program. No Certificates needed. 347-713-3553

Childcare Offered CHILDCARE AVAILABLE

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 1534 Broadway #205, Open House By Appt, BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER!!Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom(Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living...$579,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA 1638 RIDGEWAY DR.

FIRST TIME ON MARKET Well Maintained 6 BR, 3.5 Bth 3500 Sq Ft Exp CH Colonial on Beautiful St. LR/Fpl, Spac Fam Rm/Fpl, FDR, EIK & Sun Rm Overlooking 1/3 Acre Resortlike Prop w/ IG Lap Pool, Hot Tub,Bar & Gazebo. Fin Bsmt. 2 Car Gar. SD#20...$1,149,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BAY PARK BA,190 Meadowview Ave Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!..$3,200,00 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-429 ba

HEWLETT HARBOR BA 1299 Seawane NEW! Move Right Into This Beautiful 4 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch with Open Layout in Prime Location. LR, FDR, State of the Art Kit & Great Room Overlooking Magnificently Landscaped æ Acre Property. SD #14...$1,799,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

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!

Apartments

Administrative Opening Monticello Central School

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

Rockville Centre

Classic Center Hall Colonial

wet bar. This home boasts a serene primary suite, 3 generous bedrooms, and a bath on the 2nd floor. You will also enjoy a finished lower level, CAC, in-ground sprinklers, 3-car garage with loft, and ample parking. This home is close to shops, restaurants, and transportation. Move right in to this lovingly maintained home!

Removing a deck to add a room

Q. We started planning a project to add a room, 303 square feet, in 2015, and due to many delays, we received approval for a permit only in January of this year. The costs from when we originally started planning until now increased from an estimated $80,000 to almost $200,000. Part of the work was to remove the previous owner’s handicapped-accessible deck with a permitted roof, which, thankfully, we don’t need. We got an alternative estimate for a paving-block patio, which we understand doesn’t need a permit in our town if it’s on the ground. The contractor even said we could cover the entire yard. We still want to keep the roof, so do we need a permit for the patio, and do we need a permit for the footings to continue supporting the roof we want to keep?

A. You can see, firsthand, what has happened with the economy and costs. Fortunately, you have an alternative to save money. People who are planning enclosed rooms aren’t as fortunate in the economy we’re now facing.

Margeurite Fine Real Estate Salesperson margeuritefine@danielgale.com 516.384.4028

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty 36 South Park Avenue Rockville Centre NY, 11570 516.678.1510

I have always recommended patios, properly drained, supported and finished, over the other choice of decking, where possible, not just because many jurisdictions don’t require a permit for the paving, but also because the maintenance is less for a patio, and it will last much longer than a deck system. Some communities have regulations for a permit to be filed for paving to show the authorities that the paving is “permeable” — that it still allows rain to seep into the ground to recharge the water supply deep in the earth below. Your location is in a town that doesn’t require a permit for anything that’s built less than 8¼ inches above the ground. Incidentally, the magic of 8¼ inches isn’t arbitrary; it’s the maximum height of a step in the building code.

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I just returned from a trade fair where I had the opportunity to discuss material pricing with many suppliers, and the consensus is that prices for commodity materials such a raw lumber and cement will begin to fluctuate downward, but many said that they don’t anticipate manufactured items to come down again. Just as real estate has seen a dramatic increase, so now have materials and construction in general.

The biggest concern we should all have, if we care about the next generation and the health of our economy, is whether they will ever be able to afford what their parents had. Currently, only 9 percent of the next generation of American families own or have a mortgage on a home, while the majority of the generation has had to find alternatives, such as multi-generational living arrangements or apartments, trailers or recreational vehicles as permanent living, according to Building magazine, among other building information resources. I hope the existing deck roof already has a correct supporting footing in the ground. If not, good luck!

© 2022 Monte Leeper

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Monte Leeper

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Now pitching, after five weeks on the injury list ...

Last week I had the opportunity to throw out the first pitch before a Long Island Ducks game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. The game was played at the Ducks’ home field, the Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip. The Ducks played well, and won 9-2. A normal person reading this might say, that’s nice, but no big deal.

Real baseball fans, however, don’t fit the definition of normal.

For one thing, they never really grow up, and being on a professional baseball field, even just to throw one pitch before the game has even begun, is for many a childhood dream.

But living this dream includes living through and overcoming incredible tension and fear of failure. This is especially true if you happen to be a politician who knows that no matter how beloved you think you might be, there are thousands of fans just waiting to see you suffer the ignominious fate of bouncing the

pitch before it crosses home plate and settles into the catcher’s mitt. I know of several otherwise courageous politicians who will never accept the offer (or challenge) to throw out the first pitch. Or if they do develop some nerve, they throw the ball from well in front of the rubber, which, of course, is atop the pitcher’s mound, 60 feet, 6 inches from home plate.

To me, that shortened version doesn’t count as a real first pitch, so I always summoned the courage — more than I ever needed to deliver a major speech on the floor of Congress — to pitch from the rubber, and always succeeded, except for the one time, which I will never forget and always regret, when the ball faded away at the last instant and drifted off at the front of the batter’s box, forcing the catcher to make what looked like a hockey goalie’s acrobatic save.

Last week’s first pitch was particularly stressful. I had been successfully operated on for stomach cancer less than five weeks before, during which part of my stomach was removed and I was left with a 9-inch-long incision that

had to heal. The surgeon, who probably considered referring me to a psychiatrist, consented to my first-pitch antics if I threw it “softly” from in front of the mound. Reluctantly I agreed to those terms and conditions. Walking to the mound, I felt more tension than when I was being wheeled into the operating room.

But both times, my prayers were answered. The surgery had been successful, the pitch was over the plate, and the incision didn’t reopen.

Separate from my baseball delusions, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate being able to associate with the Ducks organization. The team and its owner, Frank Boulton, have been a Long Island institution for a quarter century. Playing in the Atlantic League, the Ducks bring a solid, high level of baseball to Long Island.

Their roster invariably includes future and past major leaguers, the most current and prominent being their designated hitter, former Mets great Daniel Murphy. Also notable is their manager, Wally Backman, the star second base-

man on the Mets’ 1986 World Series champion team. No one, though, has been more beloved in Ducks history than Bud Harrelson, the Mets’ All-Star shortstop when they won the 1969 Series, who was a Ducks coach and team vice president for so many years until he had to step aside because of Alzheimer’s.

The Ducks are an integral part of the Long Island community, being active in charitable and veterans events and making their home games family-friendly and affordable. Being at a Ducks game is like viewing a Norman Rockwell painting depicting real America: kids, parents and grandparents enjoying an afternoon or evening of baseball; members of local organizations singing the pre-game national anthem; veterans, police officers and firefighters being honored on the field. All this and so much more makes me appreciate the Ducks and what they mean to Long Island.

Boulton initially invited me to throw out a first pitch at a game back in 2002, and it has been an honor to be invited back over the years. I’m proud to call Frank my friend and proud to be a loyal Ducks fan. Play ball!

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security.

No, I don’t have time to answer your survey

You don’t have a moment, and neither do I, but what does that matter? Ubiquitous, intrusive and endless surveys are a good idea gone rogue.

Suddenly, all of life’s experiences are followed up with an emailed questionnaire asking you to rate your doctor, car rental, pet groomer, colorist, breakfast cereal, political candidate, wine, motel, coffee or underpants. Have a moment? Have a moment? Have a moment?

vey popped up on my phone before I even left the premises. It was pages long and asked my input on everything from the hygiene of the location to the friendliness of staff at all levels and my thoughts about ever returning to that center or recommending it to others.

RANDI KREISS

The basic idea of soliciting people’s opinions about service and products and experiences is sound. But, as with many decent ideas today, folks are beating it to death with overuse. You can’t make simple purchases without the inevitable survey landing in your inbox.

Let’s agree that there are surveys you will consider answering and some you delete immediately for very good reason.

Example: I hurt my wrist last week and went to a local urgent care. The sur-

I was impressed with the place, the efficiency and the kindness of the staff and the thoroughness of the doctor. I was not so happy with one of the medical support people who poked around my wrist with some indifference to my pain level, and there was a place on the form to say so. I gladly filled out the online survey and happily signed my name. I will probably not go back there again, because I have my own doctor. That’s why I felt safe to relinquish anonymity.

we got a free meal when I complained about an eatery we frequent.

brain, I believe my doctor somehow can access the surveys and find out who threw him under the bus. I can imagine him in the evenings, poring over the surveys, tracking the patients who mentioned how freezing the examining rooms are or how frustrating the office phone system can be. He’s the guy with the needles and potions and sharp instruments at his disposal; I would never put anything online that wasn’t in the order of high praise. No. No surveys for me at my doctor’s office.

but fill out surveys, I would be giving feedback to Chukar Cherries, my food gift outlet of choice; Optum RX, my mail order drug company; Amazon; The Washington Post; BridgeBase, my online game site; UPS; Marriott Hotels; Chewy, my go-to store for pet supplies; American Airlines; and every magazine to which I ever subscribed.

But I have a busy life, and in order to discover how well I’m doing in my own arena, I developed a small survey for my son and daughter to complete. Just five easy-to-answer questions, which I emailed to them last week:

1. Did you have a happy childhood?

A few days later, I had a follow-up appointment with my physician to check my wrist. I see him twice a year. I chose him as my doctor because I like him and the way he works with patients. By the time I got into my car, swish, the survey popped up.

In the most suspicious part of my

Open Table, the restaurant reservation website, sends surveys all the time, soliciting consumers’ opinions about everything from food to service to ambience. In one happy exchange, I wrote a seriously negative review of a restaurant we frequent, explaining that our experience seemed to be an anomaly but it was awful, and I wanted the owner to know. I signed my name.

The owner called me and invited us back for a free dinner. We went. It was great. I said so in a follow-up survey. Good. Good.

Now, if I had nothing to do in my life

2. Do you have any memories of the time I flipped out, took the car and ran away from home when you were 5 and 2?

3. Why don’t you call more often?

4. Have you ever told a therapist any family secrets?

5. What are your feelings about adult children taking in their parents?

No surprise: There has been a complete communication blackout. I guess answering anonymously wasn’t an option.

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

But

This time I had no choice but to throw from in front of the mound.

Our armed forces need your help

there were more than a dozen of them — some wearing caps denoting their military service, others in full uniform. They were veterans of various conflicts over the past several decades, many of them members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2736 in East Meadow. They paid a visit to East Meadow High School ahead of Memorial Day to ensure that the true meaning of the annual observance of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for freedom was not forgotten.

“We wanted to come here and tell the high school students what it was like to serve,” one veteran, Frank Belardo, said. “We wanted to do this before Memorial Day to teach the students, and honor those who did not come home.”

But that wasn’t the only thing on the minds of the veterans as they met with social studies classes that day.

“It seems like less kids are going down that route of joining the military,” Navy veteran Tom Kelly said. “So you just have to keep reminding them about the commitment to America, and how proud we are. It’s something that should be carried on. It seems like it’s a dying art these days, but I hope not.”

Kelly wasn’t exaggerating. America’s military forces are struggling to recruit new members. The Army, for example, missed its recruiting goal by 25 percent last year, according to the military industry news outlet War on the Rocks. In fact, the Army believes its overall forces will be reduced by 20,000 soldiers by September — part of an overall downward trend across the branches.

Young people just don’t see the military in the same light that previous generations did. They are bombarded by images of war, death and gruesome injuries, as well as many soldiers returning home and dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Yet that’s not the only factor causing a drain of personnel in the armed forces. The nation’s low unemployment rate means there’s less incentive for many to seek out the military. And the sheer number of people eligible to serve is lower than ever.

A Pentagon study last year determined that 77 percent of America’s 17- to 24-yearold population wouldn’t qualify without some kind of waiver. Many are overweight. Others abuse drugs and alcohol. And then there’s the growing number of young people who wouldn’t qualify because of mental and physical health issues, especially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 44 percent, the study concluded, would be disqualified for more than one reason.

U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, of North Carolina, a ranking Republican member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, shared during a hearing last year that “every single metric tracking the military recruiting environment is going in the wrong direction.”

“To put it bluntly, I am worried we are now in the early days of a long-term threat to the all-volunteer force,” Tillis said, according to Military.com. There is “a small and declining number of Americans who are eligible — and interested — in military service.”

So, what can be done? Many military leaders and lawmakers are trying to figure that out. The branches already offer a number of incentives to new recruits — from signing bonuses to education funding, solid (and free) medical care, room and board allowances, and a month of vacation every year, among other things.

But we must do more — and maybe we can, right here, closer to home. The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps has been a fixture in thousands of high schools — and even some middle schools — across the country since 1916. It gives young people a taste of what it’s like to serve, without leaving home. And it has been instrumental in not only providing stability for many young people over the decades, but recruiting for military service as well, since nearly half of them eventually do that.

The problem? There aren’t enough JROTC programs, especially in New York. Especially on Long Island. The vast majority are concentrated in the Southeast, according to the Rand Corp. South Caroli-

na and Georgia, for example, boast JROTC programs in far more than half their schools. New York? It’s less than 10 percent.

JROTC has been great at addressing demographic representation by being in many schools with larger ethnic diversity, Rand says. But geographic representation is severely lacking. Just 16 percent of young people live in states with high numbers of JROTC programs, while more than half of the total population of teenagers are in 28 states like New York where such programs are lacking.

More schools need to offer JROTC, but they can’t do it alone. Congress needs to expand JROTC overall — and pay for that expansion, retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. David Barno and Johns Hopkins professor Nora Bensahel say. At the same time, members of Congress — on both sides of the aisle — need to stop using the military as a political football.

“Painting the entire U.S. military as either woke or extremist undermines public support for the institution and the people in uniform, and often deflects examination of concrete problems that are affecting military capabilities and readiness,” Barno and Bensahel told War on the Rocks. “Elected officials should stop making broad assertions about the entire force, and instead focus their legitimate oversight role on the senior officials who testify in front of Congress.”

The brave men and women — like those who visited East Meadow High School — should forever be honored by all of us. But let’s not let their service and sacrifice become part of a dying breed.

Why I voted for a casino at the Coliseum

since 2014 I have had the privilege of representing the residents of the 2nd District at the Nassau County Legislature. Throughout that time, I have contemplated and made decisions on a full spectrum of controversial and consequential issues. Deciding whether or not to execute a lease transfer agreement between the county and Las Vegas Sands was one of the most difficult decisions I have been confronted with to date.

What made it so challenging is the fact that I don’t have the luxury of analyzing this or any other issue that comes before me as a lawmaker through a one-dimensional lens.

Because I am entrusted with overseeing and safeguarding Nassau County’s fiscal future, I had to carefully considering the tax revenue, economic development and job creation opportunities presented by the resort and casino Las Vegas Sands has proposed building at the

Nassau Hub. The last two factors are especially vital for the economically disadvantaged communities that I serve as a legislator.

As a policy maker, I must always be aware of the legislative atmosphere in which I am operating — and in New York state, legal gambling is a growing reality. Online sports betting became legal in January 2022, and in a 2013 statewide referendum, 67 percent of Nassau voters cast ballots in favor of the siting of seven new casinos throughout the Empire State.

As a community advocate, I researched, vetted and deliberated on the heartfelt concerns my constituents expressed about potential impacts of the Hub development on public safety, traffic and behavioral health. One especially important element of advocacy is robust community engagement.

To get the pulse of the communities I represent, I took part in numerous events in Hempstead, Uniondale and Westbury. In Uniondale — the host community for any development at the Hub — I met with leaders of the public

library, the Fire Department, the Nassau County Land Bank and other key stakeholders to ascertain the community’s concerns and needs. I listened intently to public commentary presented through various media, and read dozens of emails we received from across the county to gain a fuller understanding of public sentiment.

During the Legislature’s May 8 Rules Committee hearing, it became abundantly clear to me that the lease transfer agreement would pass on May 22 with or without my vote. Given that fact, my charge was to ensure that the communities that would be most directly impacted by development at the Hub would not have to wait until its completion to receive the public benefits they were promised.

Following extensive and fruitful negotiations, I was pleased that Las Vegas Sands agreed to enhance its community benefits package by $25 million — $10 million for Uniondale, $10 million for East Meadow and $5 million for Hempstead Village. At least half of these funds would have to be disseminated during the construction of the proposed inte-

Letters Framework

Give neighbors a chance to manage L.I.’s electricity

To the Editor:

Re Jerry Kremer’s column last week, “The PSEG love affair is over”: Mr. Kremer opposes “giving a group of local neighbors the power to dictate to professionals” operating a Long Island power company.

“Dictate” may be hyperbole, but it identifies the general problem: unaccountable power. The history provided — LILCO, LIPA, PSEG — demonstrates consistently inadequate infrastructure, a focus on shareholders over ratepayers, the interference of friends in high places, and the general disdain for customer concerns characteristic of near-monopolies. We can agree that “John Q. Citizen” ought not “dictate” to professional operators, but Mr. Citizen is also a ratepayer, dissatisfied by the “professionals’” history of mismanagement, and now seeks greater transparency, accountability and responsiveness.

Dictatorship by professionals is well known, and is what must be curbed. So long as the primary interests remain short-term corporate goals, the future delivery of Long Island’s electrons will replicate its past. Municipalization may not be the answer, but our history of failures suggests we try a new arrangement.

BRIAN KELLY Rockville Centre

Clearing the air about marijuana

To the Editor:

Since the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act was enacted in New York in March 2021, confusion remains about marijuana’s legal and medical realities. As part of the North Shore Coalition Against Substance Abuse efforts to reduce the use and abuse of substances by our youth, we offer below some information on marijuana so you can inform yourself and your family.

The law allows those 21 and older to use cannabis wherever smoking tobacco is permitted, except in a motor vehicle or where the Clean Air Act is in effect. Specifically, it allows for adult possession of up to 3 ounces of cannabis and up to 24 grams of cannabis concentrate. An adult may grow up to three marijuana plants at home, and homes with more than one adult may grow up to six plants (three mature, three immature).

So, does that mean that adults can purchase adult-use marijuana locally now?

The answer may surprise you: no. Most Nassau County municipalities have opted out of permitting retail sales of marijuana in their jurisdictions. For a complete review of what is legal and illegal, go to government sites including NewYorkStateCannabis.org.

As important as legality is to the conversation about marijuana, equally critical is the discussion of its impact on teen health. Marijuana potency has steadily

grated casino resort. Throughout that process, the collaboration with my legislative colleague Tom McKevitt, who represents East Meadow, which directly abuts the Hub, was invaluable in navigating the issues related to securing this funding for our respective constituents.

After balancing the array of public comments, completing a painstaking review of the more laudable elements of the Las Vegas Sands proposal, and factoring in the company’s agreement to invest tens of millions of dollars in bolstering crucial services and activities in the most directly impacted communities, I decided to vote in favor of the lease transfer agreement.

While the Legislature’s action on May 22 represents an important benchmark, there are many steps that must be completed before any construction begins. As this process continues to unfold, make no mistake: I will remain vigilant and focused on the series of actions to follow, and I will hold the entities associated with this project accountable for meeting their contractual obligations and fulfilling the commitments they made to the residents of Nassau County.

Siela A. Bynoe, of Westbury, has represented the 2nd District in the County Legislature since 2014.

by Tim Baker

increased in the past decades, up from about 4 percent THC levels in the 1980s to an average of 15 percent today. More disconcerting is that marijuana extracts, used in dabbing and edibles, contain, on average, 50 percent THC, and can go as high as 90 percent.

Research suggests that kids who use cannabis may face greater mental health risks, such as worsened depression and anxiety, poor attention and memory problems. Specifically, using a cannabis product with a THC potency of over 15 percent

is linked to a three-fold increase in the likelihood of experiencing mental health and other problems. Studies also suggest that 17 percent of those who start using marijuana in their teens will become dependent on it.

Given these risks, it’s important that parents know the facts and talk to their kids. For more info, go to NSCASA.org.

Rocco, Myles and Lily Pad hanging out at the Memorial Day Parade — Wantagh

Iwanted to ensure that the communities most impacted would receive promised benefits.

ALISON CAMARDELLA KEVIN McGILLOWAY President and vice president, NS-CASA

Mount Sinai South Nassau Health Fair on the Long Beach Boardwalk

• Anxiety and depression

• Balance testing

• Blood pressure

• Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Diabetes risk assessment

• Head and neck cancer screening

• Limited podiatry exams

• Memory screening

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)