Rockville Centre is truly unlike so many communities in Nassau County, with a history that dates back nearly 150 years.
The village is home to the illustrious St. Agnes Cathedral, Molloy University, Catholic Health’s Mercy Hospital, the John A. Anderson Recreation Center, the Rockville Links golf course, and so many of Long Island’s best restaurants and bars.
By Cl ARE GEHlICH Herald Intern
The U.S. Women’s National Team has inspired young girls everywhere who hope to one day play soccer at the highest level. To help them reach for their potential, the South Side High School girls’ varsity soccer team held a World Cup-themed clinic on Aug. 3.
Some 75 players took part, and they were split up into seven World Cup-style teams. Second- to fourth- grade girls represented Australia, England and Spain, while the fifth- to eighth-graders represented Japan, France, the Netherlands and Germany.
The young athletes competed in events including dribbling and penalty shoot-outs, as well as a round-robin tournament.
“I feel like everyone’s going to be really
excited for everything, because we made everything super competitive, because that’s how you get little kids going,” Nora Basile, a co-captain of the Cyclones’ varsity soccer squad, said. “You just need them always doing something, just against each other. They always have more fun.”
The initial excitement came when the high school players organized a “flagging” event on July 3, at which they unveiled the team assignments to the kids. Reese Haley, another Cyclones co-captain, and her fellow teammates placed American flags in the participants’ yards and displayed posters indicating their designated teams: green for Germany, orange for the Netherlands, red for Japan, and blue for France.
The varsity players taught the younger chil-
ConTinued on page 18
The Rockville Centre Herald really is your community news source, and we take that mission very seriously. We’ve seen firsthand how neighbors come together to support one another and their village.
This week’s Herald is being mailed to every home in the village, and includes a copy of our popular annual magazine, Living In Rockville Centre.
It’s filled with great information you can use throughout the year. And it features the many acts of kindness that makes Rockville Centre such a great community.
If you’re not a Herald subscriber, we hope a look at this week’s edition will persuade you that you should be.
Each week in these pages — and on our website — we cover the big issues in the village, and you’ll find the local news that
you can’t find anywhere else. And, of course, check out our indepth feature stories about your friends, neighbors or local students who are making a positive impact on the community, and who give Rockville Centre its unique character.
If you’re not currently receiving the Rockville Centre Herald by mail each week, please help keep quality local journalism alive in your community by signing up for a free subscription.
See our subscription offer inside on Page 8, or find us online at LIHerald. com/free. You can also call (516) 5694000, Ext. 7.
If you’re already a Rockville Centre Herald subscriber, thank you for your support. We hope you are pleased with our coverage.
If you’re new to the Herald, then you must know that our mission is to cover all the news of your neighborhood — from the schools to local sports. From houses of worship to philanthropic organizations.
Please feel free to reach out with suggestions. You can contact your editor via email at doffner@liherald.com.
Enjoy the Herald, and thanks for reading!
Daniel Offner, Senior Editor
More than 100 young soccer players hit the field at the Rockville Centre Athletics Complex on July 26 to participate in the annual “Kids Teaching Kids” free summer program sponsored by the RVC Soccer Club.
The soccer club started the local tradition more than four decades ago and has continued to provide young athletes, between the ages of four and eight, with a clinic to help teach them and improve upon their soccer skills.
Each year, during the last two weeks of July, high school students pitch in to help guide their younger counterparts, instructing them in the fundamentals of the sport.
Gavin Goodlad, 18, the former captain of the South Side Cyclones’ varsity soccer team who is now playing soccer for Endicott College, said he started with the program as a coach in the eighth grade, when he was handed the reins and, for the last two years, has been organizing the event with the help of the RVC Soccer Club.
“I got involved because I wanted to give back to the community and help teach little kids about the sport,” Goodlad said. “I’ve been playing since I was three, so I know the developmental needs that go into playing soccer.”
Chris Anderson, an RVC Soccer Club board member, said that the event goes “full circle,” as many of the younger kids who have participated in years’ past, return as adolescents to help give back to the next generation of young soccer players in the same way.
“The best part of the program is that it provides kids with a chance to play and be coached by other kids,” Anderson said. “It’s all about having fun… and it’s a great opportunity for others to do something good for the community by giving back.”
“I remember going to this camp when I was a kid,” Chris Cosgrove, one of the boys’ soccer coaches, said. “So it’s kind of cool that I’m back here helping out.”
Maggie Colvin, a recent graduate of South Side High School and one of the girls’ soccer coaches, has been participating in the program for the last two years. She said her favorite part is working with all of the kids.
“They’re always smiling and so positive,” Colvin said. “That’s probably the most fun part.”
Rockville Centre parents said they were very impressed with the program, particularly those who were experiencing the “Kids Teaching Kids” initiative for the first time.
“The fact that these kids are out here teaching our children soccer is really unique,” Catalina E., a local parent, said. “Having that experience of playing soccer will
help them see if it’s something that they would like to do later on.”
Cam Livingstone, a Rockville Centre resident whose father, Bob, was one of the original creators of the program in 1982, previously told the Herald how the program continues to serve as a testament to the effort of local youth in the community.
“Volunteerism is alive and well in our village because all of these people who are teaching these little children are volunteers from our high schools,” Livingstone said. “It’s just a wonderful place to live and raise a family, and this is one of the reasons people give back.”
Anderson said that the program always gets a great deal of support from the village and that the RVC Soccer Club hopes to continue the tradition for many more years to come.
To learn about the free “Kids Teaching Kids” clinic, the RVC Soccer Club and upcoming summer camp programs, go online to RVCSoccer.com or visit the Rockville Centre Soccer Club RVCSC Facebook page.
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Learn
9 from 3-6pm
Rain date: S eptember 10
Multiple Stages. D ozen of Bands. S cores of Musicians. Rockville Centre's celebrated music festival returns to porches, front lawns and driveways of homes all around the village. Mark your calendar for this free, family-friendly event, sponsored by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce. Funds raised through donations will suppor t the Chamber's S outh High S chool S cholarship Program.
For more information, visit RVCChamber.com
Plans for the 2023 Run for Heroes 5K event have gotten a head start. The annual fundraiser, which will take place on September 9 in Baldwin Park, helps raise money for the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts throughout the 21st Assembly District — including Rockville Centre, Malverne, Lynbrook, East Rockaway, Baldwin, and Freeport
james_tomlin@ml.com
In preparation for the race for local veterans, the East Rockaway Kiwanis club held a kickoff event on July 24 to encourage members of the community to participate in the cause.
divided equally among the posts.
“The posts are very important because it provides, particularly the older veterans, a place to go and see other veterans, to socialize, to talk about their experiences,” Curran said. “To many veterans, the posts are their second homes. They enjoy being there. We must do everything to keep them open, and the only way to do that is to meet their needs.”
The momentum behind the race has grown each year into what it is today. Each participating community regularly sees between 100-to200 runners compete, and raises anywhere from $5,000 to more than $10,000 for the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
CuRRAN“The Kiwanis always supports the vets,” Michaelene Abbott-Cooper, president of the East Rockaway Kiwanis club, said. Her two sons, 21 and 23, both serve in the US Marine Corps. “I always saw respect in the flag, in being an American, in the opportunities we have here, (and) in how we conduct ourselves.”
Assemblyman Brian Curran began the race in 2011 to help raise money for local veterans organizations that had been struggling financially. Seeing the opportunity, Curran created the 5K walk as a way to help raise money to benefit our local heroes.
Funding for the event also helps cover the cost of banners and medals for the winners, while the remaining funds are
And the money isn’t the only thing given back to the veterans. Seeing their friends, families, neighbors and even strangers come together to support them has just as much an impact.
“I think they’re thankful, I think they’re grateful,” Abbott-Cooper said. “The joy I get is from seeing them smile.” Curran agreed, adding that you can see the appreciation from local veterans towards all of the runners who participate.
“What their participation is doing for them in keeping their post open, it means everything to them,” Curran said. “After all they have done, this is the very least we can do.”
To register, visit Events. EliteFeats/23RunForHeroes.
Courtesy Michaelene Abbott-Cooper Hempstead Town Councilwoman Laura Ryder, East Rockaway Kiwanis president Michaelene Abbott-Cooper, and other club members have come together to support their local American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts.After all they’ve done, this is the very least we can do.
BRIAN
Assemblyman
The Covid-19 pandemic impacted how houses of worship in Rockville Centre engaged with their communities. To ensure proper health precautions and social distancing, many places of worship shifted to online services while others had to close their physical buildings, relying on the internet to inform members about worship matters. Since then, many continue to provide hybrid services as they embraced the “new normal.”
Reverend Scott Ressman, pastor of United Church, explained that while virtual services were necessary during the pandemic, they led to a sense of “missing community.”
“The pandemic helped us to realize the importance of community, and particularly, the importance of faith community, where people can gather to share their joys and concerns about life and just things that are going on in their life in general,” Ressman said.
Due to restrictions and health concerns, in-person gatherings faced disruptions, even though clergy members wanted to keep in-person worship at congregations to keep their faith and religion alive.
Reverend Kevin Morris of the Church of Ascension said he encourages congre-
gants to attend in-person services, but understands having options in times when people are sick or tired or they can’t attend in person.
“We’ve been trying to remind people that online worship is not a replacement for conversion of worship,” Morris said. “It’s a good resource to have when it’s your only option … but it can’t be a replacement. It’s not the same thing.”
Ray Longwood, lead pastor at The Experience Vineyard Church on Merrick Road, shared how the pandemic led to people becoming more intentional with
their faith. “What it enabled me to see is how people who actually do show up on Sunday ... are intentionally seeking an experience with God.”Longwood said.
St. Agnes Cathedral has been available for weekday and Sunday in-person Mass since the summer of 2020. Father Michael Duffy of St. Agnes Cathedral mentioned that lifting Covid-19 restrictions allowed them to fill church with more congregants than before the pandemic.
Rabbi David Lerner of Congregation
B’nai Sholom-Beth David said that their synagogue continues offering hybrid ser-
vices, giving congregants flexibility to participate in all services, including Saturday mornings, Friday nights, and daily services.
Lerner emphasized how the pandemic allowed returning congregants with opportunities to reunite, reassess their values, and evaluate where they are as a community.
Still, while some instutions — including the Vineyard church and St. Agnes will conduct their primary services in person, they also provide options for online viewing.
Due to the financial impact of the pandemic, some members of Central Synagogue-Beth Emeth were faced with challenges, due to a limited number of resources available.
Rabbi Michael Cohen said that in order to help the community, the synagogue partnered with Sharon’s Pantry, a Rockville Centre food bank, to support low-income and low-resource families.
“We’re very proud of that and I think the level of giving has drastically increased since the pandemic,” Cohen said. “There’s an empathetic value that came out of the pandemic that I’m not sure it’s being discussed. Maybe it’s not realized by many, but I have seen the level of helping others really increase in the past few years.”
The answer is always the same “W hat is t he RVC Ed Fo undation?”
Since 1991, t he RVC Edu cation F oundation h as r aised money t hrough ou r an nual gala T h e f unds are in vested in RVC st udent e xperiences an d sch olar ships We make in novations an d programs n ot in t he sch ool bu dget come t o life
An d w e n eed you r h elp t o continue t h is good w ork . District bu dgets are alw ays st retched t h in, bu t par t of living in RVC is h aving e xcellent sch ools
Ge t in volved by don ating your t ime, e n ergy, or money Sponsor ship oppor tunities are available Go t o w ww r vcedfoundation org or ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔
Courtesy Nancy HochhauserA re s ide nt -led no t -for-profit who s e mission is to e nhance the quality of RVC s t udents' e duc ational e xpe rience.
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
The Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation returned to Lister Park for its fourth annual Rise Up for Ryan 3-on-3 basketball tournament and Suicide Awareness Walk on Saturday, July 29.
The annual event is held each summer in memory of 18-year-old South Side High School graduate Ryan O’Shea, who died by suicide in January 2019. Its goal is to help raise money for the foundation’s continued work to increase mental health awareness in local schools and communities, while fostering a dialog about this public health crisis.
“The Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation works hard to bring awareness to mental health issues by creating positive community experiences for young and old to participate, be together, learn and laugh,” John O’Shea, Ryan’s father and the co-founder of the nonprofit organization, said in a message. “Our goal is to end the stigma attached to mental health issues by encouraging discussion and creating a caring community atmosphere to give everyone the ability to ask for help when they need it.”
All of the proceeds raised go to help fund the school district’s Sources of Strength program — a national suicide prevention program that provides insight and inspiration through its proactive approach to addressing mental health concerns, which can in some cases lead to feelings of isolation or suicide.
In memory of Ryan, who loved basketball and was a star player for the Cyclones team, the foundation hosts a 3-on-3 tournament each year, where teams of kids, teens, and adults compete — within their respective age brackets — in head-to-head halfcourt matches.
“Close to 250 players and hundreds of spectators took part in the tournament,” O’Shea said. “It was a fantastic day that culminated with our suicide awareness walk around the park.”
During the suicide awareness walk, which also takes place in Lister Park, friends and participants painted rocks with motivational and healing messages to help make others know that they are not alone, to remind them that its okay to not be okay, and that its important to seek help from a trusted friend, family member, or advisor when they feel lost.
The Sources of Strength program also provides students with a reprieve from the daily stresses attached to exams, homework, classes, during the academic year, focusing instead on teaching methods to improve social and emotional wellness.
Since it was implemented, the Sources of Strength program has grown exponentially and has spread to school districts all over Nassau County. It is now part of the curriculum in Freeport, Oceanside, East Rockaway, and West Hempstead.
To find out more about the annual event and the efforts of the Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation, visit RyanPatrickOsheaFoundation.com.
Sean Clairine, a rising senior at South Side High School, was selected as one of five lucky teenagers to participate in Bank of America’s Student Leaders program.
For the past 19 years, Bank of America has helped teens grow employment and leadership skills, by selected candidates from diverse backgrounds and those, who like Clairine, are making a difference in their communities for an eight-week paid summer internship with local non-profit organizations — Island Harvest and the EAC Network.
“By providing the pathways and resources for young adults to gain the foundational work skills and leadership experience they need to succeed, we are investing in the long-term economic growth of the entire tristate area,” José Tavarez, president, Bank of America New York City, said. “The Student Leaders program helps equip teens with the opportunities they need and deserve as they build their future while assisting critical local nonprofits.”
In past years, the program has teamed up with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs in New Jersey and the Youth Men’s Christian Association of Greater New York in Manhattan. Some have even gone as far as Washington D.C. on an all-expense internship.
Clairine started his own nonprofit organization last year called Generation Motivation, with the goal of helping at-risk and low-income children on Long Island and in New York City with opportunities to pursue their interests by providing financial and emotional resources to promote opportunities for success. The organization
Book Review:
In “Die with Zero”, subtitled “Getting All That You Can from Your Money and Your Life”, retired engineer Bill Perkins takes an analytical view about making your life grow as opposed to making your money grow. Letting opportunities pass you by for fear of squandering money leads many to squander their lives instead.
Instead of just keeping on earning and earning to maximize wealth, too many of us don’t give nearly as much thought as to maximizing what they can get out of that wealth — including what they can give to others while they are living, instead of waiting until they die.
As opposed to spending money on things, which excitement depreciates over time, the author advocates spending on experiences, which grow in value over time, due to the “memory dividend”. Perkins advocates a systematic approach for eliminating the fear of running out of money (the main reason people oversave and underenjoy) while maximizing your and your loved ones
also offers a variety of mental health and educational services and resources.
He said that he hopes the organization, will help kids find the faith in themselves and encourage others to dream of what the future can hold for them.
In the past year, Generation Motivation has received a great deal of support from the community, raising more than $4,300.
Clairine heard about the Student Leaders Program through a TikTok video posted by a former participant in the program, a few years back and applied during his junior year at South Side High School. A month later, he received notification that he was accepted.
Bill Perkins
enjoyment of that money.
Being that the main idea is that your life is the sum of your experiences, you should put some thought into planning the kind of experiences you want. If you die with significant wealth but a scarcity of experiences, you worked a lot of hours just to accumulate money that you either never used or were too old to use.
You can waste your life by underspending. Life is not only about “accumulating”, it is also about “decumulating” or using the money to maximize your life which, in the end, is nothing more than the memories you make.
In a similar vein, giving inheritances early maximizes the impact of those inheritance on the recipients’ quality of life. The average age of heirs being about sixty, the money usually arrives too late to do the most good.
Your time is limited. The chief regrets of the dying are that they didn’t live their dreams more and spent too much time working, missing out on relationships and life experiences.
“I’m the first student from my school to participate in the Student Leaders program, so I was really excited to receive the news,” Clairine said. “It felt like getting into my dream college. It was exciting, rewarding, and also like a wave of relief. One more step in my plan was now solidified.”
Over the summer, Clairine will work as an intern with the EAC Network, a nonprofit social service agency that focuses on the protection and promotion of the services of their communities.
Clairine said that he looks forward to being out in the field, serving the community. He said he wants to learn more about people’s backgrounds and become an active participant in the organization, expressing a desire to form a partnership with EAC Network in the future.
“One of my passions is helping children from disadvantaged situations to create a more inclusive environment. The work I’m doing as a Student Leader with EAC Network will help me in the work that I do for my nonprofit,” he said.
Next year, he will be headed to college where he plans on studying law. “Being a part of the Student Leaders program has been genuinely amazing, especially the leadership summit,” he said. “I’ve been telling all my friends to apply … I’d love to get more people involved in making a difference because these programs aren’t talked about enough.”
He said that the most rewarding part of the program is seeing the results of his efforts. It helps keep him motivated — along with the help and support of his family and friends — and stress-free.
Clairine said once you step outside of your comfort zone to do something as meaningful as this, it shows you the strength it takes to keep working at your goal.
Learning doesn’t have to end at a certain age—it can be a lifelong pursuit. Molloy University empowers learners of all ages by offering high-quality, flexible and adaptable programs to serve and meet the needs of Long Islanders through two outstanding programs: The Molloy Institute for Lifelong Learning (MILL) which was established in 1992 and the new Sister Mary Celeste Lecture Series. In both programs you learn for the fun of learning in a relaxed environment without assignments, exams or grades.
The MILL program is a membership-based program. Most members are retirees, however, not everyone is retired, nor is this a requisite for membership. All ages are welcome, men and women, singles or couples, as long as there is a willingness to participate in learning and to maintain a rigorous mind. The programs meet in-person one day week during the day: Tuesdays or Fridays in Rockville Centre and Wednesdays in Amityville. Membership is valid from September 1 to August 31 each year and lectures usually start mid-September and runs until mid-June.
The Sister Mary Celeste Lecture Series offers individual courses in a variety of areas, offered in-person during the day for one or more sessions in Rockville Centre. Topics may include, current events, music, art, literature, history, finance, heath, philosophy, technology and more. Whether you’re interested in dabbling in a new hobby or just trying to keep up with technology, there’s a class out there for you.
Campers, preschool students, and parks and recreation staff displayed their camp spirit by dressing up in beach gear for Wipe Out Wednesday. Kids attending Rockville Centre’s 69th summer playground program at the John A. Anderson Recreation Center and Wilson Elementary School also enjoyed a variety of different athletic activities, arts and crafts, indoor and outdoor recreational games, and special events this summer.
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Photos courtesy RVC Recreation Staff Surfs up! Recreation staff members look stoked in their gnarly beach attire on Wipe Out Wednesday. Wipeout — one of the campers soaks staff member Jessica Brew.thirdgeneration licensed real estate salesperson. Earlier In her career, Maureen worked as a paralegal and possesses many traits that will make your transaction a positive one!
since 1997 and a true Long Island native! Born and raised in Floral Park and now living in Long Beach, Kim has Island-wide experience. Her motto is, “Your happiness is the true measure of my Success!”
Rockville Centre residents Gus Constant and Dalal Jaghab were married on June 27 at Hempstead Town Hall.
Continuous use of electricity puts a strain on the power gird and increases the chance of outages. To help conserve energy this summer, the Village of Rockville Centre recommends local residents:
Close blinds, curtains to keep direct sunlight out
Use fans to circulate air rather than lowering the thermostat
Limit AC use to only occupied rooms
Turn lights off when not needed
Reduce electricity use during peak hours of 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. including electric dryers, ovens, dishwashers and pool pumps
Charge electric vehicles during off peak hours, before noon and after 8 p.m.
Have you always wanted to live on Park Avenue? Now you can – in the heart of Rockville Centre. This updated Townhouse, 3 bedrooms on the second floor, 2.5 bathrooms, is close to shops, restaurants, and the LIRR. And you’ll have your own private 2-car garage. Move in and enjoy the comforts of home and let someone else do the mowing and shoveling!
dren basic soccer skills at last week’s clinic, and Charley Doreste, a senior player and another co-captain, detailed the clinic’s broader mission. “We just really want them to just have fun, because that’s really what this sport is about,” Doreste said. “That’s what we’ve learned throughout the years of us playing every day, that you really need to love it to keep going.”
It’s been over a decade since soccer superstar Crystal Dunn, who now plays for Portland Thorns FC and the women’s national team, led the Cyclones to three state championships, and the girls’ varsity team was inspired to organize the World Cup-themed event as a way to pay homage to Dunn.
“I’ve looked up to her since I was young,” Basile said. “I feel like, hopefully, the younger kids start to like to watch the FIFA Women’s World Cup, for example, and see that she’s from our town and just be excited for her and bring the community together to support her.”
Girls’ varsity coach Judi Croutier emphasized that the team, including the co-captains, led the planning and execution of the event. “They can be here, helping players that were young like them ... having Crystal as a role model is such a great thing to aspire to,” Croutier said. “Only a few get there, but at least you can see there’s hope, there’s dreams, and with hard work, people get there.”
The clinic brought together parents,
families and coaches as well as the players, garnering significant support from the community, including Rockville Centre Mayor Francis Murray, who was among the attendees.
“This is our high school girls, teaching the younger children about the game of soccer,” Murray said. “It’s more than just a game of soccer; it’s a commitment to
sports. What’s good about living in Rockville Centre, they go out and play team sports — team being the big word. So it’s a wonderful thing they do to bring up the next generation.”
Despite the Americans’ loss to Sweden in the World Cup’s Round of 16 and their elimination from the tournament, Haley said she hoped the clinic would inspire
more people to tune in to the competition, which continues until Aug. 20 — especially younger children — and encourage them to follow the games, stay updated, and cheer for the teams they represented.
“For me and all the seniors, it’s just a great way to start our senior season,” Basile said. “I feel like this is the perfect start, trying to bring soccer down to the next generation and have them look up to us, hopefully come to our games, and just be excited for every season, too.”
The recent departure of former Rockville Centre police commissioner James Vafaedes in June left an open position for the top brass for the first time in five years.
After a month-long search village officials announced on Monday night the appointment of Rockville Centre Police Department Commissioner Randy Dodd, a seasoned law enforcement professional with 25 years of service in the community.
“My whole life I wanted to become a police officer,” Dodd said. “And when I became a police officer, I wanted to become a police commissioner. And let me tell you I’m so happy to share this moment with all of you. I want to thank you for being here. It’s been an amazing journey.”
Commissioner Dodd was born and raised in Lido Beach and Long Beach, where he graduated high school with a full athletic scholarship to Northeastern University, where he received his bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. He also received a Criminal Justice Education Certificate from the University of Virginia.
He joined the Rockville Centre Police Department in 1997 and has been recognized as “Cop of The Year” and “Cop of the Month” multiple times.
In 2010, he was promoted to Traffic Sergeant and in 2021, earned the rank of Lieutenant Commanding Officer of the
Patrol Division in 2021, where he managed daily operations in compliance with department policies and procedures.
Throughout the course of his career he has collaborated with law enforcement agencies and community organizations to enhance public safety.
Most recently, he graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy this past June.
“What I learned there and the lessons that they taught me, I’m going to bring back here,” Dodd said. “We’ll make this village safer than it was, better than it was, and we — all of us together — are going to make this department… the best of its size in the state of New York.”
In his new role, Commissioner Dodd will be responsible for planning, organizing, supervising and directing the activities of all 58 officers and 36 civilian employees in the department.
“I have full confidence that Commissioner Dodd is the right person for this important position,” Rockville Centre Mayor Francis Murray said in a statement. “His years of expertise and experience will help continue the strong relationship between our community and Police Officers, as well as keep Rockville Centre one of the safest communities in New York.”
–Daniel Offner
Once a year, members of the Rockville Centre Police Department vote among their ranks for someone deserving of the title “Police Officer of the Year.”
Police Officer Palmer responded to the scene on February 16, 2022, when a tractor-trailer that was transporting fuel turned on its side striking the former LaZ-Boy building, causing it to engulf in flames. Palmer sprung into action and located the operator of the truck, and
with the help of a fellow officer was able to drag the driver a safe distance away in order to provide medical assistance.
“We all saw those pictures and the video of that building catching on fire and the aftermath of that horrific accident,” Village Trustee Katie Conlon said.
In recognition of her alertness and diligence in the face of danger, Mayor Murray and the village board awarded Officer Palmer with a commendation.
Daniel Offner/Herald
Rockville Centre Mayor Francis Murray swears in newly appointed Police Commissioner Randy Dodd during the village meeting on August 7.
A lot of attention directed toward Long Island’s congressional delegation has been directed at U.S. Rep. George Santos.
But one group doesn’t want voters to forget about another member of that delegation, who might not be facing criminal charges or accusations of lying to voters, but with whom they feel is falling short of his responsibilities.
The advocacy group Empire State Voices gathered representatives from Democratic caucuses and labor unions to Rockville Centre last week, calling out U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito.
“We’re here because Congressman D’Esposito has not been standing for working families on Long Island,” said Maria Martinez, executive director of Empire State Voices.
Martinez hosted a panel discussion with guests that featured former state senator John Brooks, former Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, and Nassau County Working Families Party representative Joe Sackman. On the agenda were their thoughts about a number of economic issues affecting those living in New York.
For instance, they claim that in the first seven months since taking office, D’Esposito has voted on legislation to “protect wealthy and corporate tax cheats,” “give corporations $6 billion in tax breaks,” and made it harder for senior citizens to access Social Security and
Medicare benefits.
“I have heard Anthony profess so much support for veterans, so much support for disabled children, support for seniors,” said Griffin, who lost her Assembly seat to Brian Curran last year by a handful of votes.
“Don’t just listen to him because he’s all about talking the talk, but that guy never walks the walk. I have listened to him make speeches, and it’s always the same thing. But when it comes down to it, when he has the chance to vote to help people, he doesn’t.”
D’Esposito didn’t take part in the discussion, but a spokesman from his office
told the Herald the congressman “continuously ranks as one of the most bipartisan members of Congress, and regularly works with colleagues from across the aisle to deliver results for Long Islanders.
“Unlike many Nassau County Democratic officials who take their cues from out-of-touch New York City progressives, Congressman D’Esposito’s votes have always advanced the interest of Nassau County neighbors.”
But some of the panelists gathering in Rockville Centre would disagree, using the Limit Save Grow Act — which was passed in April to increase the federal debt ceiling and decrease spending — as
D’Esposito voted in favor of Limit Save Grow, which Martinez believes will make it harder for senior citizens to access Medicare benefits, putting Medicaid coverage at risk for millions.
“When you cut our services, when you cut funding to schools, when you cut funding to hospitals and Medicaid, the cost comes back onto us,” Sackman said. “There’s always a cost to this, and we are the ones who are paying it over and over and over again. That has to change.”
Maryland Republican Greg Murphy, however, said last April the bill “will not cut Medicare, Social Security or veterans’ access to health care.”
The conversation also touched on the proposed American Families and Jobs Act, which the group labeled a “tax scam.” The three-part legislative proposal aims to provide tax relief for working families and individuals, strengthen small businesses, and provide tax incentives for economic development in rural communities.
“We can’t reiterate enough how important these economic policies are for us, not just out on Long Island, but across the state of New York,” Martinez said. “We need to urge Congressman D’Esposito to vote ‘no’ on the GOP tax scam bill. There’s a long road ahead, and over the next couple of months, we’re going to be out ensuring that we hold (him) accountable for the votes he’s either taken or not taken.”
Daniel Offner/Herald“Summer means a sudden availability of all sorts of fresh vegetables — from familiar zucchini and eggplant, to more exotic mushrooms and chilies,” says award-winning chef Rick Bayless. “Entertaining a summer crowd can be easy, delicious and inexpensive if you let the season’s produce do most of the work.”
Chef Bayless suggests simple recipes that highlight fresh summer fare. His summer entertaining advice is always worth following, some of which many of us practice already.
Opt for organic: Shop your farmers markets. Small local farms promote biodiversity by planting a wide range of produce, are more likely to operate using organic practices, and add to the fabric of their communities. With their homegrown approach to agriculture, these farmers ensure the highest quality of food. Other organic products besides fresh produce are popping up on grocery shelves.
Know your way around the grill: Whether using a charcoal or gas grill, heat the grill grate thoroughly before putting food on, and avoid moving the food until it is well-browned. This prevents food from sticking to the grill. Keep a spray bottle filled with water on hand to handle flare-ups that can arise from fat drippings.
When in doubt, just chill: Simple marinades can take meat and seafood to a new flavor level. Save time by marinating the main dish for a few hours prior to your guests’ arrival. And keep it refrigerated. Then put it on the grill when it’s time to eat. A little preparation can lead to big, bold taste.
Rus Anderson dons the famous boots, outfits and glasses, ready to demonstrate once again his talent and pizazz for embodying the musical legend that is Sir Elton John. Anderson has built a reputation of seamlessly embodying Elton John’s persona. He even caught the attention of the man himself, impressing him so much that Anderson was his official body double for his ‘Farewell Yellow Brick Road’ World Tour projects, re-creating highlights of Elton’s career in virtual reality. Anderson has a natural ease at personifying John’s flamboyancy, sequins and songs, but also does it with genuine authenticity — always singing the vocals and playing the instruments live. Whether it be Elton John’s more upbeats tempos, such as ‘I’m Still Standing’ or ‘Saturday Night’s Alright,’ or his heartfelt ballads, Anderson will have you up on your feet joining in. He painstakingly recreates those memorable concerts with the colorful and flamboyant costumes — including Elton’s iconic boots, glasses and jumpsuits. Friday, Aug. 11, 8 p.m. $65, $45, $35, $30. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Marinade/dressing:
• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Skewers:
• 24 large raw, headless, peeled shrimp, with tails on (about 1 pound)
• 24 whole green onions, trimmed to 6 inches in length
• 24 cherry tomatoes
• 2 poblano chili peppers, seeded and cut into 24 pieces
• 8 12-inch bamboo skewers, soaked in water
Rice:
• 3 cups hot cooked brown rice
• 15 ounces canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 teaspoons grated lemon zest
Whisk marinade ingredients in small bowl. Reserve 1/2 cup mixture in separate bowl and set aside. Place shrimp in a resealable plastic bag, pour marinade over shrimp, seal tightly and coat well. Refrigerate 30 minutes, turning frequently.
Remove shrimp from marinade (reserving marinade). Place shrimp on skewers, alternating with tomatoes, chilies and onions (folded in half).
Preheat grill on high heat. Brush skewers with reserved marinade and cook 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until shrimp are opaque in center. Place remaining marinade in a small saucepan on the grill to heat slightly. Toss rice with black beans, cilantro and lemon zest.
To serve: Top rice with skewers and spoon remaining marinade over skewers.
• 2 each crookneck or summer squash, baby zucchini, large whole carrots, large fennel or 3 medium fennel bulbs
• 5 to 6 shallots
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• Extra virgin olive oil
For the Ginger Citrus Mayonnaise:
• 3 juicy oranges, grapefruits, Meyer lemons, mineolas, tangerines, Mandarins, blood oranges, etc., cut in half (6 halves total)
• 3 tablespoons (or more for desired consistency) store bought preferred mayonnaise
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Preheat grill for vegetables.
To make the mayonnaise, squeeze all the juice out from 5 of the 6 citrus halves into a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. When juice begins to boil, lower heat to medium-high and reduce juice until thick and syrupy, being careful not to let it burn.
Remove from heat, pour into a bowl, and allow to cool slightly. (At this point you can grill the vegetables). Whisk in mayonnaise, ginger, and cayenne pepper until smooth. Squeeze in juice from last remaining citrus half, and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Cut all veggies in half lengthwise, rub all sides sparingly with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Grill, cut side down first, for 4 to 6 minutes if small, 5 to 8 minutes if large pieces. Flip so skin side is down, and grill all an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until all veggies are firm but easily sliced with a knife.
Serve on platter alongside bowl of ginger citrus mayonnaise or drizzled on top of vegetables.
Whether or not you’re a Deadhead, Half Step will have everyone feeling the vibe, when the band rocks out Eisenhower Park. The band, themselves a group of dedicated fans and ‘students’ of the Grateful Dead, capture the spirit, improvisation, sound and complexity of the Dead’s music. Since 2004, these Long Islandbased musicians have been mastering their craft while winning over crowds of veteran Deadheads, newcomers and non-Dead fans alike. Like the Grateful Dead themselves, the band is constantly pushing the envelope, growing together as musicians and performers. Their attention to detail is clearly evident in their effort to put on a viable Grateful Dead experience. They stay true to the traditional show format and play sets of tunes in a sequence that could likely have been performed by the Dead themselves years ago.
Saturday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. Free admission. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
uring summer’s waning weeks, get-togethers outside with family and friends take on even greater appeal.
Theatricals presents a tribute to the one and only Barbra Streisand, Saturday, Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m. Sharon Owens performs her acclaimed interpretations of Streisand’s songbook. It’s performed at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $33, $35. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.
Boogie along with Disco Unlimited,” Friday, Aug. 18, at 8 p.m., at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park. When Disco Unlimited hits the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will — when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins. Capturing a time in music that to this day has not been matched, this lively band will exhilarate you with their powerful vocals, tight harmonies and dance grooves — all coupled with a synchronized stage and light show. Close your eyes and you will truly believe you are listening to the original artists. Hear the best of Tavares, France Jolie, The Trammps, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Yvonne Elliman, Anita Ward, Deney Terrio, George McCrae, Bonnie Pointer, Melba Moore, Maxine Nightingale, Carol Douglas, and so much more. Joe Cool, Sista Soul, Funky Sista, Strat Cat, Wild Jerry and The MacDaddy comprise this group of unique and experienced musicians who love and live this era of music. As always, bring seating. For information, visit NassauCcountyNY.gov/parks.
Aug.
View the landmark exhibition “Modigliani and the Modern Portrait,” at Nassau County Museum of Art. Devoted to the way that Modigliani powerfully re-defined the art of portraiture, the show includes his masterworks along with paintings and drawings by his Parisian contemporaries (Picasso, van Dongen, Laurencin). Modigliani’s enduring influence on artists even in our own time is shown in a selection of Contemporary paintings by such important figures as David Hockney, Eric Fischl, Elizabeth Peyton and others. The exhibition is being curated by Dr. Kenneth Wayne, founder of The Modigliani Project, which authenticates paintings and drawings (two of the works in the show have been recently approved by the committee). Through Nov. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Theatre Playground returns to Long Island Children’s Museum with “Dramatic Play!,” Monday, Aug. 14, 1 p.m., taught by Lisa Rudin, Director of Theatre Playground (who visitors may already know from her role as “Piggie”!). In this interactive, theater-inspired workshop kids will act out an original story and help choose how it unfolds. Music, props, and sound effects create a theatrical world where participants are immersed in the story. Children are encouraged to express themselves as they create characters, explore different worlds, stretch their imaginations and build self-confidence. This week’s theme: The Amazing World of Bugs and Butterflies. Costumes encouraged. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.
The highly anticipated music festival, sponsored by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce, returns to Rockville Centre lawns, driveways and porches for its fourth year, Saturday, Sept. 9, 3-6 p.m. The community fundraiser will benefit the Chamber’s South Side High School scholarship program. For more information, visit rvcchamber.com.
Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé is partnering with the Nassau County Department of Assessment to host Property Tax Exemption workshop sessions at Rockville Centre Public Library, Monday, Aug. 14, 1-3 p.m. During the workshops, staff will be available to assist residents with filing for veteran, senior citizen, Cold War veteran, volunteer firefighter, ambulance worker, limitedincome disability and/or home improvement exemptions. Enhanced STAR applications will also be processed for homeowners already enrolled in the STAR program prior to Jan. 2, 2015. All workshops are by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling (516) 571-1500 or visit NassauCountyNY.gov/ Assessment. 221 N. Village Ave.
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.
Find all sorts of goodies at the Rockville Centre Farmers Market, every Sunday, from 7 a.m. to noon. LIRR parking lot between Long Beach Road and Sunrise Highway. Through Dec. 24. Info at LongIslandGrowersMarket.com.
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a buggy adventure, Saturday, Aug. 19, 11 a.m. Hunt elusive grasshoppers, butterflies, predatory insects and other crawly creatures in the gardens. Bring a butterfly net and collecting jars. All ages. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour, Sunday, Aug. 13, 1:30 p.m.; also Sunday, Aug. 20, 1:30 p.m. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.
Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture,” now back on-site at Nassau County Museum of Art, Thursday, Sept. 7, 1 p.m. Enjoy an in-depth presentation on the current exhibition “Modigliani and the Modern Portrait.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the program and to join the 2 p.m. public tour of the exhibit. Also Oct. 19. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Not sure how to get started on your college essay? The Hofstra University Admission Office is offering a virtual workshop to help high school students learn the skills to tell their story in a way that helps them stand out. The final workshop, Thursday, Aug. 17, 4-5 p.m., is 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 inperson visit go to: Hofstra.edu/visit.
On Saturday, Aug. 19, all 53 Nassau County public high school football programs will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 1 when MacArthur visits Manhasset as part of a handful of games that weekend in Conference II.
Nassau returned to the usual eightgame regular season in 2021 after all scrimmages, two regular-season games, one round of playoffs and the Long Island championships were eliminated the previous season due to Covid-19. This season, with Conference II fielding an odd number of teams (13), each team in that conference will get a bye over a nine-week campaign. Long Beach, Sewanhaka and Jericho will kick off their respective seasons in Week 2 (Sept. 8 and 9) with the rest of the county.
“We’re not the first conference to have an odd number of teams and we just have to do the best we can to prepare,” said MacArthur head coach Bobby Fehrenbach, whose seventh-seeded Generals play their first three games over a 13-day span including a trip to No. 2 Carey in Week 2 and their home opener Thursday, Sept. 14 against Rolsyn/Friends Academy. “The kids have been working hard during the offseason and we’ll be as ready as we can be for Manhasset,” he added.
Farmingdale (Conference I), Garden City (II), Plainedge (III) and North Shore (IV) won county titles in 2022 and are preseason No. 1 seeds, making them favorites on paper to repeat. Farmingdale was awarded the Rutgers Cup, presented annually to the most outstanding team in Nassau. The Dalers open at home against Uniondale Sept. 8. An Oceanside-Freeport matchup kicks off the Conference I action that same evening.
Garden City, which has captured seven straight Conference II titles, opens the 2023 campaign at home against New Hyde Park. Longtime Conference II contender Carey moved to III last fall but is back to familiar territory. The Seahawks open Sept. 9 at Elmont.
“We have five September games and no scrimmage,” Carey head coach Mike Stanley said. “Everyone in our conference is in the same boat, but it’s tough from an evaluation standpoint to not scrimmage. That being said, we’ve been putting in the work all summer and the fortunate thing for us is we’re bringing back a lot from last year’s team.”
Any teams outside of Conference II choosing to play a game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, Section VIII football coordinator Matt McLees said. Most scrimmages will take place Sept. 2 and 3. “Everyone needs 10 practices to conduct a scrimmage, but
Sept. 8: Oceanside at Freeport
Sept. 9: Elmont at Mepham
Sept. 22: Freeport at Farmingdale
Sept. 30: Carey at Garden City
Sept. 30: Wantagh at Lynbrook
oct. 7: Wantagh at South Side
oct. 7: Malverne at North Shore
oct. 21: Seaford at Malverne
oct. 21: South Side at Plainedge
oct. 28: Baldwin at Freeport
teams can practice together after five practices,” he said. “If teams practice against one another, they can do drills but can’t simulate anything that would happen in a scrimmage or a game.”
Along with Carey, five other teams have switched conferences for the upcoming season based on enrollment figures: South Side, Manhasset, Mineola, Clarke and Kennedy. In addition, Jericho has returned to Nassau County football following a 2022 campaign it teamed up with Plainview.
South Side is back in Conference III and seeded No. 2 behind Plainedge. The Cyclones open at home versus Hewlett. Kennedy is also in III from II. Clarke, along with Mineola, jumps to III from IV. The Rams are at Valley Stream North in Week 1.
The second week of the season (third for many Conference II teams) will be played on Thursday, Sept. 14 due to Rosh Hashanah that Saturday. Games will kick off as early as 1:30 p.m. (Elmont at Sewnhaka) and as late as 7 p.m. on the 14th, with one game going on Friday, Sept. 15 (Roosevelt at Division) at 2 p.m.
After 20 years, the legendary Jay Hegi will no longer serve as Elmont head coach. Former assistant Tom Innes takes over the helm of the Spartans and will make his debut against Carey.
A member of Lawrence’s Long Island championship team in 2014, Melik Mavruk, who scored the game-winning touchdown that year against Sayville on an 82-yard fumble recovery late in the fourth quarter, takes over as the Golden Tornadoes’ third head coach in as many seasons. Lawrence opens at home versus Valley Stream South.
Ernie Blount is the new sideline boss at Baldwin. He spent 23 years on the staff at LIU-Post. The Bruins are seeded fourth in Conference I and host Hempstead in the opener.
Like the rest of her U.S. women’s soccer national team teammates, Crystal Dunn is taking an unexpected early trip home from the Women’s World Cup.
The two-time defending champions crashed out of the 32-team tournament on Sunday. They lost a shootout to Sweden in the Round of 16, 5-4, after playing to a scoreless draw in Melbourne, Australia.
Dunn and the Americans had hoped to stay around for the final in Sydney, Australia on Sunday, Aug. 20, to become the first team, men’s or women’s to win three consecutive World Cups.
Instead, the one-time South Side High School standout will be forced to watch the championship game on television.
The U.S. started the competition with a 3-0 triumph over World Cup debutants Vietnam, but suffered three consecutive disappointing draws, a 1-1 deadlock with the Netherlands, a scoreless tie with Portugal, and then Sunday’s result.
“Very proud of them and devastated for them,” U.S. head coach Vlatko Andonovski said. “That they would have to go out the way we did I thought that we
deserved a lot more. We deserved to win this game. I thought we created enough to win this game. I felt that we put up a fight, a battle.
“They showed grit, resilience, the fight and the bravery,” he added. “They showed everything that we could to win the game. And unfortunately, soccer can be cruel sometimes.”
The Americans, who won four previous World Cups, had reached the semifinals in the eight previous tournaments. Dunn performed well at left back, helping to hold the opposition to only one goal in four games. She also became part of the U.S. attack on many occasions, overlapping into the offensive third.
The USA’s Achilles Heel, however, wasn’t the defense. It was the attack, or lack thereof.
Despite her superior attacking skills, the 31-year-old Dunn did not participate in Sunday’s penalty-kick tie-breaker, which went seven rounds.
Dunn was unavailable for comment.
Given her offensive production in the National Women’s Soccer League, many observers felt Dunn should have played midfield for the USA, which was lacking creativity. After she was left off the national team that went on to win the
Crystal Dunn had a
2015 Women’s World Cup, Dunn, then a member of the Washington Spirit, took out her frustrations on the rest of the NWSL. She captured the scoring title and earned MVP honors.
When she received an opportunity to play for the USWNT, Dunn was switched to left back. She worked hard to become a world-class defender, helping the U.S. cap-
ture the 2019 World Cup.
With the Portland Thorns, Dunn also was a vital cog in the team’s attack en route to the 2022 title.
Dunn, who has made 136 international appearances while scoring 24 goals, should be in the mix for the U.S. team that will participate in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Soirée Under the Stars has set an ambitious goal this year to raise $1 million. And it all starts Saturday, Sept. 23 at The Lannin — the newly renovated venue at East Meadow’s Eisenhower Park.
The annual fundraiser from Mount Sinai South Nassau will help benefit its new comprehensive stroke program, part of a $10 million upgrade intended to help save lives on the South Shore by providing enhanced round-the-clock coverage for interventional treatment of complex and life-threatening vascular diseases, such as stroke or aneurysm.
Mount Sinai plans to install a biplane 3D interventional radiology imaging suite for precise, rapid treatment of blood clots and vascular diseases. It also will apply for thrombectomy capable stroke center designation from state health department, which provides accreditation to medical centers like Mount Sinai, opening the door for Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.
“We are taking things to the next level,” said Joe Calderone, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s spokesman.
This year’s Soirée Under the Stars will honor Rockville Centre’s Anthony Cancellieri, who co-chairs the hospital’s board of directors. Cancellieri has been dedicated to the hospital’s for more than
a decade, expanding services from the Rockaways to Massapequa.
“I’m honored,” Cancellieri said. “Our work at Mount Sinai South Nassau will make it one of the best — if not the best — caring facilities on Long Island for years to come.”
For the last 35 years, the hospital has held a special place in Cancellieri’s heart. It was where two of his three children — and five of his eight grandchil-
dren — were born.
Cancellieri felt the need to do something more — volunteering his expertise in public service — after his daughter was injured in a car accident on Merrick Road. Although he was frightened for her well being, thanks to the attentive and dedicated response from hospital staff, Cancellieri said he was able to feel more at ease.
“The compassion and care that was
showed to us at South Nassau was unbelievable,” he said. “They didn’t treat us like we were clinicians, they treated us like parents. I never forgot that.”
A few years later, Cancellieri was appointed to Mount Sinai South Nassau’s board of directors. He had been approached because of his years of experience in public service, primarily with the lobbying and development firm of Park Strategies, among other leadership roles — including one with the New York Police Department.
Cancellieri’s “leadership, support, and commitment to the hospital’s mission cannot be overestimated,” Dr. Adhi Sharma, president of Mount Sinai South Nassau, said in a release. “There is no one more deserving than Tony, who has helped shepherd our hospital through many milestones, including the affiliation with the Mount Sinai Health System, our $500 million capital campaign, and community support for the staff during and after Covid-19 — which was one of the biggest challenges our hospital and our community has ever faced.”
This year’s event will feature a twohour outdoor reception starting at 7 p.m., with food, an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and an opportunity to mingle with the hospital’s key supporters, staff, board leadership, and administration.
To learn more about the soirée, purchase tickets, or support the event as a sponsor, call (516) 377-5360.
Herald file photo
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Hundreds gathered at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre last week to pay their respects to Robert Dillon.
The late Nassau BOCES superintendent died July 28 after following complications from spinal surgery. He was 72.
Dillon — who lived in both Walden in Orange County, as well as Plainview here on Long Island — was appointed to lead the Nassau Board of Cooperative Educational Services in 2015.
During his time with BOCES, Dillon advocated and expanded access to career and technical programs, revitalized the Long Island High School for the Arts, and helped create a mental health consortium, serving all 56 Nassau County school districts, parts of Suffolk County, and the Diocese of Rockville Centre.
“After his first full year at BOCES, his passion and dedication for the students, staff and programs were part of every conversation I had,” his son, Chris Dillon, told the packed cathedral. He followed his father’s footsteps into education, now an assistant superintendent in the Plainview-Old Bethpage school district.
“He was honored to be part of such a great team.”
Dillon grew up in Bayside, Queens, and at one point almost became a Major League Baseball player. The Detroit Tigers drafted him out of Loyola High
School, a private Jesuit academy on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Instead, Dillon chose a different path, graduating from St. John’s University in Queens with a doctorate in education.
He began his career as a special education teacher in 1975, and for the next 45 years, would inspire and motivate hundreds of students, teachers, parents and faculty members across New York.
“To this day, he could not only name most of his students from his early years
of teaching or retell their success stories,” the younger Dillon said, “he had a steady belief in the potential of every single student he encountered. He was not just the teacher, director, principal or superintendent, He was a cheerleader. A mentor.
And a trusted confidant who loved to teach and coach other professionals — including myself — to be the best educator they could be.”
Throughout his career, Dillon served
as the superintendent of four school districts — including two on Long Island. He was at one time the superintendent of the former Sugar Loaf school district in Orange County, and the Abbott school district in Westchester County.
Between 1992 and 1999, he was superintendent of the Eastport-South Manor Central School District in Suffolk County, where he helped lead the effort to merge the two districts. He also led the East Meadow school district between 1999 and 2007.
“Whether navigating through the Covid-19 pandemic, pushing for increased mental health student support, or innovating numerous programs, he has revitalized, transformed and enhanced educational opportunities for all students,” BOCES representatives stated.
During the funeral Mass at St. Agnes, Dillon was remembered by family, friends, colleagues, supporters and countless others whose lives he touched.
“He taught by example, that there was never a problem, only your solution or plan on how to fix it,” Dillon’s son said. “He understood that failure was a part of life and would never allow that to define him. Instead, he taught us resilience, showing us that setbacks are sources of strength rather than defeat.
“Never letting them deter his spirit, he proved that true success is not measure by achievement, but by how one navigates through challenges.”
Daniel Offner/Herald
The Babes and Boys Against Cancer recently hosted its annual fundraiser at the Rockville Links Club to help raise money for the American Cancer Society.
Each year the Long Island-based organization helps raise over $1 million through the joint efforts of more than 400 volunteers and 5,000 participants at 23 country clubs in the New York Metro area.
A major force in the fight against cancer, the Babes Against Cancer — formerly known as the Babe Zaharias Memorial Tournament — has been taking place across Long Island for more than 50 years.
The group was founded in 1972 by Sandy Zuckerman Rothstein, a breast cancer survivor who organized the first tournament at the Muttontown Club to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer.
Rothstein motivated thousands of Long Island golfers to join her fight by creating and growing the effort into the million-dollar force for good that it is today.
In 2002, the organization officially decided to change its name to “Babes and Boys Against Cancer,” after agreeing to split the funds raised equally between efforts against breast and prostate cancer.
All of the funds raised at golf and country clubs go to help provide support to breast and prostate cancer patients and their families.
Gigi Marasco, co-chair of the Babes and Boys Against Cancer committee in Rockville Centre, said the reason for the efforts is that “everyone is affected by cancer… cancer does not discriminate.”
“The Rockville Links members come together as a family to help our community and far-reaching communities,” Marasco said. “The goal is to live in a world without cancer.”
Marasco, said that this year’s event, held on July 25, also marked the 50th year that the Rockville Links Club has participated in the fundraiser event. To date, the Rockville Centre organization has raised
more than $450,000 for breast and prostate cancer research.
Since its inception, Babes Against Cancer has raised over $37 million across Long Island, making it the largest American Cancer Society fundraiser of its kind. As of 2022, the organization has $14.3 million has been allocated to prostate cancer, all of which goes directly to research.
The American Cancer Society is the nation’s principal voluntary health organization and has contributed to a 25 percent decline in the cancer death rate in the United States over the last 10 years, driven by less smoking, better treatments, and earlier detection.
As the largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, the American Cancer Society ensures people facing cancer have the help they need and continually fights for access to quality health care and lifesaving screenings.
Jean Rosshirt and Village Trustee Katie Conlon hit the links in support of the Babes and Boys Against Cancer.
MaryJo Clarke, left, Jean Vitale, Kate Dudley and Theresa Watterson enjoy the luncheon and raffle prizes during the annual fundraiser at the Rockville Links Club.
Gigi Marasco, left, Lucy Collette, Ali Quinn and Betty Gerneglia participate in the annual Babes and Boys Against Cancer golf event at Rockville Links Club.
South Side Middle School has a brand new artificial-turf field thanks to the capital improvements approved in the 20232024 fiscal budget.
The $136.4 million spending plan, which was approved by voters in May, included plans to transfer $4.3 million from the district’s existing fund balance cover the additional cost of two renovation projects at the middle school.
The new turf field was installed over the summer break, and is expected to be ready for use by the start of the new school year in September.
The capital expense budget also included funding for necessary roof repairs at South Side Middle School.
To help young students start the 20232024 school year on the right foot, Nassau County Legislator Siela A. Bynoe, in conjunction with Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the NAACP – Lakeview Branch, Moms Who Care and St. Paul AME Church, presents the annual “Road to Success” back-to-school event at the Tanglewood Preserve in Rockville Centre on Sunday, Aug. 20 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Free school supplies will be given to parents and children, while supplies last. There will also be food, fun and activities for the entire family. In addition, the first 100 children in attendance will receive free entry to the Dinosaurs exhibit at the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning.
For more information contact Legislator Bynoe’s office at 516-571-6202 or email sbynoe@nassaucountyny.gov.
The St. Agnes Council of the Knights of Columbus in Rockville Centre supported The Most Reverend Bishop John O. Barres’ vision to celebrate June as the month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus by sponsoring the creation of a banner and installation of anchors on St. Agnes
Cathedral.
The banner was on display for the entire month of June and could be viewed by Long Island Rail Road commuters going to and returning from work, as well as members of the Rockville Centre community.
Playing on the Porch, the community-wide music festival on-the-move, returns to the porches, lawns and driveways of Rockville Centre for its fourth year on Saturday, September 9 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Rain date is Sunday, September 10.
While similar events have started to pop-up across Nassau County in recent years, Rockville Centre was the first community to bring this unique musical showcase to Long Island.
The family-friendly event is entirely volunteer-driven and presented by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce with additional support from local businesses and homeowners.
Last year’s event featured more than 29 different local musical acts and soloists, each performing a variety of different musical styles and genres, who were spread out across different homes and lawns throughout the village.
Each performance attracted crowds of local festivalgoers as they biked or walked on bright and sunny afternoon through the residential streets for a chance to listen to as many acts as possible.
Not only is the event a celebration of music and a showcase of local talent, it is also a community fundraiser. All of the performances are free and open to the public to attend, however, suggested donations will be collected at different
“tip jars” at each participating home. This year, all of the donations made will go toward the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce’s South Side High School scholarship program. During the event performers are also permitted to sell band merchandise, with permission of the homeowners.
Homeowners who still wish to signup as “porch patrons” for the highly visible community event, have until Aug. 11 to register as a sponsor.
Sponsorships are $150 to register. If
you are a homeowner and are willing to host a musical group, email iyna@ optonline.net. Hosts are asked to please inform their neighbors before volunteering as a sponsor.
Funds raised from sponsorships will be reinvested into initiatives and events that help the businesses and community thrive.
For more information on the event, visit RVCChamberofCommerce.com.
–Daniel Offner Daniel Offner/Herald photos People gathered along St. Marks Avenue to hear the Astoria-based band, Amber Lamps, perform last year.
The Tommy Brull Foundation has been raising money for people with physical, mental, and emotional challenges since 2008 when Rockville Centre native Martin Brull founded the nonprofit in memory of his brother, Tommy, who died in a car accident in 1999.
Inspired by a mutual love for music, Brull started the “Shine A Light” concert series in 2011. Since then the organization has invited major headliners such as Deer Tick, The War on Drugs, Taking Back Sunday and many others.
The series celebrated its 23rd show on August 3 featuring The Hold Steady. Tickets to the show sold out fast, as people from all across the metropolitan area gathered at RJ Daniel’s in Rockville Centre to see the Brooklyn-based indie rock band.
All of the proceeds from the show went to help with the cost of Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground, a long-anticipated project that will provide an adaptive environment so children with different needs can play together.
Brull said the concert was both a “massive night” and a massive success for the foundation. “We raised over $25,000 for Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground,” Brull said. “It has always been a dream to have this
band play our stage in memory of Tommy, a person who is still so sorely missed.”
Following the success of the most recent showcase, Brull is busy preparing for another big concert on August 27 at Molloy University’s Madison Theatre fea-
turing Kansas City-based singer/songwriter Kevin Morby.
“I’ve known about Kevin for a long time,” Brull said, “but this new record hit me kind of hard.”
The indie rocker’s 2022 album, “This is
a Photograph,” was met with crucial acclaim. It was recorded during his stay at the historic Peabody Hotel in Memphis.
Brull said that he reached out to Morby’s agents after hearing the Jeff Buckleyinspired track, “A Coat of Butterflies.” Buckley, who tragically drowned in the Mississippi river in 1997, was one of Tommy’s favorite musicians.
Because of the level of detail and attention that Morby puts into the sound of the album, Brull said he felt Molloy would provide the perfect venue.
In addition to helping raise money for Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground, Brull said that half of the proceeds raised from the concert would also go to help the Alex Levine, the lead singer of a local punk band called The So-So Glo’s who was recently diagnosed with cancer.
“They played with Deer Tick in 2017 for next to nothing,” Brull said. “We want to pay him back as a karma.”
The Tommy Brull Foundation and SparkyMusic will present An Evening of Music with Kevin Morby on Sunday, August 27 at the Madison Theatre at Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave. in Rockville Centre, at 8 p.m.
Tickets are still on sale and can be purchased via MadisonTheatreNY.org. For more information on the Tommy Brull Foundation and the Shine A Light Music Series, visit TommyBrullFoundation.org.
Courtesy Tommy Brull Foundation
EVENT
PANEL
RAFFLE DRAWING AT 12:30PM SILVER
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION
TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK GIALLOMBARDO, IF LIVING AND IF HE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s).
FDNY firefighters present Hughes’ helmet to the members of his family following the funeral service at St. Agnes Cathedral on Monday. Hughes was remembered for his 23 years of dedication and service with the FDNY.
Robert Martin Hughes of Long Beach passed away peacefully at home with his wife by his side on July 30. He was 66. He was a family man and is survived by his wife Patricia, whom he married in 1982. They had four children together— daughters Jacqueline Gasper and Jennifer Lang, and sons, Christopher and John Hughes.
Hughes is also survived by his brother, Thomas, sister-in-law, Ingrid, sister, Denise Graff, and nieces and nephews Bettina Hughes, Karl Hughes, Nicole Hughes, Alexandra Graff, Therese Graff and Liam Graff. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Therese Hughes.
His warmth, optimism and personal charm were evident to all who knew him. He had the kind of personality that could light up a room. He was grateful for the little things in life: a beautiful beach day, a Yankees win, or a great day on the golf course. He loved traveling and would often recall his favorite memories from his recent trip to Italy, his cross-country adventure with his daughter and his trip to Glacier National Park. He was a devoted family member and friend who spent much of his time helping others. He was always there to generously lend a hand or offer great advice when you needed it most.
He loved to laugh. He always looked on
the bright side and lived with a relenting sense of optimism and felt lucky to live the life he did. He loved being a dad, a husband and a New York City firefighter. He saved many lives and was so humble about all the good he did in this world. He loved making new friends wherever he went, and embellishing stories from his childhood for the laughs. He was a great listener who gave sound advice, but always had a witty comment to add and he was incredibly smart and never stopped learning.
Hughes, or “Woody” as he was best known at the firehouse, had a commitment to service that was evident through his long-standing career with the FDNY. He started his career in 1981 and he was proud to work in Ladder 151, Engine 235 and “The Big House.” His dedication to the FDNY lasted for 23 years until his retirement in 2005. His achievements in service, alongside his dedication to his family, are some of his greatest accomplishments.
He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity. His spirit, his teachings, and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of those who had the good fortune to know him.
FDNY firefighters lined up outside the Cathedral of St. Agnes in Rockville Centre on Monday, Aug. 7, for a funeral Mass in his memory.
11570. 141098
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC,
Pursuant to an Order Discharging the Guardian Ad Litem and Military Attorney, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 15, 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 August 28, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 28 Saint Marks Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 192 and Lot 18. Approximate amount of judgment is $491,839.01 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 004355/2013. Cash will not be accepted. 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.
Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523, Attorneys for Plaintiff 140944
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that an On Premises Tavern Wine License, Serial #1366989 has been applied for by American Multi-Cinema, Inc. d/b/a AMC Fantasy 5 to sell beer, wine and cider at retail in a Movie Theatre. For on premises consumption under the ABC law at 18 N Park Ave Rockville Centre NY
-vsPlaintiff, SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Index No. 614162/2018 THYIAS E. PINNOCK; MINOR HEIRS AND UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF DANIEL G. DUNN A/K/A DANIEL DUNN; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; Defendants. Mortgaged Premises: 1228 WATERVIEW DRIVE ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 11570 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S):
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you, unless the Defendant obtained a bankruptcy discharge and such other or further relief as may be just and equitable.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing an answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.
The object of the above action is to foreclose a Purchase Money Mortgage held by the Plaintiff and recorded in the County of NASSAU, State of New York as more particularly described in the Complaint herein.
TO THE DEFENDANT(S), except THYIAS E. PINNOCK the plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action.
TO THE DEFENDANT(S), except THYIAS E. PINNOCK:
IF, AND ONLY IF, you have received or will receive a Bankruptcy Discharge Order which includes this debt, the plaintiff is solely attempting to enforce its mortgage lien rights in the subject real property and makes no personal claim against you. In that event, nothing contained in these or any papers served or filed or to be served or filed in this action will be an attempt to collect from you or to find you personally liable for the discharged debt.
YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises.
Dated: June 8, 2023
VICTOR SPINELLI, ESQ. FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 28 EAST MAIN ST., SUITE 1800 ROCHESTER, NY 14614
Telephone No.585/226-7310
NYFC@FEINSUCH.COM
XNSRN059 141006
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notice to Bidders
Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on AUGUST 24, 2023 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for:
2023 PARKING FIELD #4 REHABILITATION Bid No. 2308CP3(1087)
The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. Each bid must be accompanied by
a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at Lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than AUGUST 17, 2023.
Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.
Purchasing Department
Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 141192
LEGAL NOTICE
Malverne Union Free School District
Malverne, New York
Legal Notice
CLAIMS AUDITOR
Notice is hereby given that separate bids, submitted in sealed envelopes for CLAIMS AUDITOR will be received on:
Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, NY 11565
Malverne Administration Building
Sealed bids are to be addressed to the attention of Christopher Caputo, Assistant Superintendent for Business, Malverne Union Free School District, 301 Wicks Lane, Malverne, New York 11565.
All bids must be submitted to the Assistant Superintendent, on or before the date and time of opening in sealed envelopes, bearing on the outside the name and address of the bidder and the title of the bid in the lower left-hand corner. Contact Donna Fecht at dfecht@malverneschools. org for the RFP. The Board of Education reserves the right to award all or a part of this bid or to reject all bids or to make awards which are in the best interest of the school district.
Date: Thursday, August 10, 2023
By Order of the Board of Education
Malverne Union Free School District 141183
DRIVING
Help Wanted
ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL /College
/Grad School Students: Staff Needed Before School 7:00-9:00AM Afterschool
2:45-6:00PM. Experience with children preferred. Friedberg JCC Locations in Oceanside, Bellmore, Baldwin, Long Beach, Island Park. Send resume to: tcorchado@friedbergjcc.org or call 516 -634-4179.
4 Day Work Week
Experienced And Reliable. NYSI A Plus. Busy Merrick Shop. Call 516-781-5641
Busy Rockville Centre Landlord/Tenant
Law Firm seeking FULL TIME in office (not hybrid) administrative assistant to work with one of the Partners.
Responsibilities include heavy client contact via emails and telephone. Landlord/Tenant experience a plus.
Salary commensurate with experience.
401K, Medical/Dental benefits.
Send resumes to: Kathleen@rosenblumbianco.com
Chief Marketing Officer– Amityville, NY–
Responsible for all marketing endeavors for the current and future brand portfolio.
Salary range: $159,058 to $159,058 p/y. Apply to: Iconic Brands, Inc., richard.decicco@gmail.com
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED
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
MEDICAL OFFICE RECEPTIONIST.
Busy South Shore Nassau County Neurology Office. F/T And P/T. Must be flexible, computer literate, medical experience preferred. Salary commensurate with experience. 401K. Email resume: bookkeeping@lineurology.com Or Call 516-887-3516 ext. 110
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 Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships.
Be
•Sales/Multi
•Receptionist
•Reporter/Editor
•Drivers
•Pressman/Press Helper
Baldwin $602,000 Cottage Place. Colonial. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Home office.
Taxes: $9,954.41
Bellmore $765,000
Ellen Road. Hi Ranch. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Security system.
Taxes: $13,529
East Meadow $910,000
1st Avenue. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Updates include marble bathrooms and skylight. First floor bedroom.
Taxes: $9,720.84
E-mail Your Resumes to Careers@liherald.com call 200
Mail Your Resumes to Careers@liherald.com or call 516-569-4000 ext 239
*must have a car
PROFESSIONAL REGISTERED NURSE
Part-Time (Ten-Month) Position Monday – Friday (3.5 hours/day)
Must have registered nurse’s license, cPr and aed certification. copies of all college transcripts (including transfer credits) and certification(s) must be provided with application. Official transcripts are required for appointment.
SALARY: $26,631
ANTICIPATED STARTING DATE: On or about August 31, 2023
Candidates are to submit a letter of interest with resume and above credentials to:
Diane Drakopoulos, Personnel Clerk 443 Ocean Avenue, East Rockaway, NY 11518
(516) 887-8300, Ext. 1-441 • ddrakopoulos@eastrockawayschools.org
Is hiring for the 2023-2024 School Year
School
MoneyTo Lend
ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
East Rockaway $890,000 West Boulevard. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Eatin kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Updates include cathedral ceiling. Ample storage.
Taxes: $17,941.92
Elmont $765,000
Lucille Avenue. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. First floor bedroom. Home is in Franklin Square school district.
Taxes: $13,742.41
Long Beach $1,245,000
Armour Street. New Contemporary. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and high-end stainless steel appliances. Open layout with 2 gas fireplaces. Ensuite master bedroom with spa bathroom. Built to FEMA code with space for inground pool. Bay views.
Taxes: $21,000
Malverne $650,000 Church Street. 2 Story. 4 bedrooms,1.5 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor bedroom.
Taxes: $13,112
Merrick $635,000
Meadowbrook Road. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Updates include cathedral ceiling.
Taxes: $11,937.01
Rockville Centre $1,898,000
Kenwood Court. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 3.55 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room, home office and guest quarters. With wood burning stove and cathedral ceiling.
Taxes: $33,949.57
Valley Stream $735,000
Lydia Street. Expanded Cape. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room, exercise room and wet bar. First floor bedroom.
Taxes: $12,125
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
Welcome to the most spectacular home featuring a custom great room with chef's kitchen including two 5 burner gas stoves, double wall ovens, warmer drawer, sub-zero fridge and custom cabinetry. The guest quarters are on ground level with bedroom, full bath and den. The third level includes three spacious bedrooms, full bath and laundry. There are upgrades throughout including 13 zones of heat, central A/C and hardwired alarm and sound system. There is a home office in the basement as well as utilities. Plenty of room for parking with an oversized driveway and two car attached garage that has dual access through yard. This corner property has a covered front porch and fully fenced in yard, perfect for entertaining! Come discover all this amazing home has to offer. Asking $849,000.
Q. Can you solve a debate I’m having over my roof replacement? A friend told me that my roof color has to be light, like white or light gray, to be reflective and save energy. He says roof manufacturers are switching to light colors because it helps keep homes and big buildings cooler. My roof has always been a dark brown, and I want to keep the same color when we change the roofing.
Cory Knopf Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker
Licensed as: Rhea Cory Knopf Cell: 516-375-7727 Office: 516-764-6060
Cory.knopf@compass.com
Hal Knopf Team at Compass 2800 Long Beach Rd Oceanside NY 11572
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! $2,098,000
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 dMERE
504 Saddle Ridge Rd, BA, Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2 Bth
Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/Wood EIK Opens to
Dining Room & Living Room. Lower Level Den. HW Flrs, Gas Heat, CAC.
Oversized Property! SD#14. Near All! REDUCED! $999,000
CE da RHURST
332B Peninsula Blvd, BA, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth
Coop Townhouse. LR,
A. Depending on your climate, the selection of roof materials is just as important as color, and maybe even more important, depending on what you’re looking to achieve. For example, in Florida, with less likelihood of needing a balance of heat in winter to absorb and keep the house warmer, you’d be looking for higher reflectivity to lower heat absorption, whereas in a northern climate, you want the balance of heat absorption in colder weather and less in hot weather. But there’s more to consider. Concrete or clay tiles, and how they’re applied, can also make a difference. Concrete is what is known as a “heat sink” absorptive material, which heats on the sky-facing side and slowly builds heat into the material throughout, like a sponge picks up water, then slowly releases it. On Mediterranean hillsides, this principle naturally kept people comfortable without mechanical heating and cooling for thousands of years. Clay tile has air moving underneath, channeled to dissipate heat.
Now we get into asphalt shingles and metal roofs. The latest technology, which has rapidly evolved thanks to applied science, engineering and nanotechnology advances, shows that color does play a role, but not as much as your friend thinks. Even light colors only have about a 30 percent effective rate on reflectance. This means that 70 percent of the heat is still transferred through to the interior space below. On the other hand, the reflectance can be increased by applying — usually during roofing manufacture in a controlled environment — coatings that have prism-like qualities.
Like most building principles, however, effective solutions work as a system. If it isn’t fully understood before using the coatings or materials, the system may fail. You can increase reflectance of solar rays, but without making sure the applied coatings are compatible with the roof material, you can cause the roofing to react by distorting or even disintegrating.
In addition, the system works best if insulation slows the heat absorption on the underside of the roofing without buckling the structure or the roofing. Like any product, packaged materials, paints, etc., come with warnings, but systems usually don’t come with precautions. If an asphalt shingled roof isn’t stabilized by being cooled or ventilated underneath, it will prematurely fail by cracking and twisting (in very slow motion) as the roof structure expands and contracts underneath it.
There are darker color paints that also reflect, and if you search online, roofing companies have several products in dark reflective colors. Consult the manufacturer about your specific application. Good luck.
© 2023 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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 FLUORESCENT LIGHT BULBS, 48 inch long, 18 bulbs new in box $20. (516) 254-3640
Finds $100-$350
TRIO- TRAINER BRT7989: Hardly Used, Exercise Bicycle And Elliptical Trainer. Asking $175. Call/ Text 516-319-1651
SERVICES
Cement Specialist, Brickwork, Interlock Bricks, Belgium Blocks, Stoops, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Basement Entrances, Pavers, Waterproofing. Quality Work,
Electricians E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All
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
Home Improvement
BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636
DANDY HOME IMPROVEMENTS * Full Or Partial Kitchens/ Baths *Painting *Sheetrock *Taping/ Spackling *Installations Ceramic/ Vinyl Tile *Carpentry *Alterations *Repairs/ More. FREE ESTIMATES. Dan 516-342-0761
LITO CONSTRUCTION
Home Improvement/ Construction 10% OFF ANY JOB OVER $2,000 Driveways, Sidewalks, Steps, Designer Brick Work, Stone Decor, Pointing, Framing, Foundations, Extensions, Bathrooms, Basements, Installation Of Draining Systems. Licensed/ Insured. Free Estimates. 516-564-8315, 516-376-9365
Miscellaneous
BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price
Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313
Power Washing
POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
Tree Services
T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE
*Tree Removal *Stump Grinding *Pruning
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During my lifetime, the summer months have been a time to just soak up the sun and try to get only as much work done as is necessary. But these days there are more things going on in the political world that I find myself struggling to keep up with, and two of them are worth exploring. One is climate change, and the other is Hunter Biden.
A dear friend of mine volunteered his thinking about the horrendous weather the world has been experiencing, stating, “There’s no such thing as climate change. It’s all cyclical.”
There are a lot of things that are cyclical. The major one is the economy. I’ve lived long enough to have seen major ups and downs in the stock market, and experienced both inflation and recession.
But at no time in my life have I seen virtually the entire world experiencing oppressive heat waves and violent storms. If you travel to Europe in the summer, there’s always the chance that you’ll run
into brutal heat waves. But recently the temperature of the ocean off south Florida exceeded 100 degrees. That is not a cyclical experience.
I feel a touch of sadness when I see photos of polar bears in the Arctic, stuck on land because ice floes have melted. Many of the western states now have deserts where there were once overflowing streams and lakes. The lack of available drinking water has stirred fights among some of those states, and there is no way to create any new water sources. This past winter, many communities were buried in as much as eight feet of snow with no past history of such accumulations.
Almost every day, there’s a report about flash floods killing people. Last month, Westchester, Orange and Rockland counties were hit with torrential rains that caused at least two deaths. Elected officials in those areas likened the rainstorms to waterfalls, and they caused millions of dollars in damage. Government officials attested to the fact that the flooding they caused had no historical precedents.
My second issue is the Republican fixation with President Biden’s son, Hunter.
Because the economy is good and the president is championing so many positive things that have happened during his time in office, the opposition party is spending night and day talking about his son. Which, to be fair, raises the legitimate issue of relatives of presidents capitalizing on their name or contacts.
When Jimmy Carter was president, his brother, Billy, spent all his waking hours promoting the Carter name. He started out with Billy Beer and created many other promotions using the family name. President George H.W. Bush’s brothers snagged lucrative business deals. It didn’t hurt to have the name Bush.
Then there’s Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump’s son-in-law. I have met Jared on a number of occasions, and find him to be a very likable person. But Jared is no Warren Buffett. The Saudi government gave Jared $2 billion for his investment fund, against the wishes of the government’s own finance minister.
According to U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings as of March 31, Kushner’s fund had $2.5 billion on hand, almost all of it having come from overseas inves-
tors.
It’s fair to assume that Jared didn’t get his Saudi windfall based on his looks or charm, so being a son-in-law of a president hasn’t hurt his brief career as an investor. Has Hunter Biden made thousands, or millions, based on the fact that his last name is Biden? I think that’s a fair assumption. Did he break any laws? That’s up to prosecutors to determine — not Fox News or Ohio Congressman Jim Jordan, the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. I could fill volumes of Herald columns with stories about presidential family members benefiting from their last names. I wasn’t around during the days of President William Howard Taft, but there are a few stories of lucky relatives dating back even to those times. From now at least until November 2024, many Republican politicians will be spending many of their waking hours pursuing the dirt, real or imagined, on Hunter Biden. I think there are more issues of importance to America than one man’s son.
Jerry Kremer was an Assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
The sweep of history has ushered in the first woman ringmaster for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and, at the same time, swept out the entire circus, which will close in May. After 146 years in business, the circus decided to put a woman in the center ring, which might have been a step forward if the circus had a future, which it does not.
covered by media and hailed as an entertainment that carried a rich history and promised thrilling, freakish sideshows.
that had a highly respected Clown College, a place where the Ringling Brothers circus wintered since 1927. Still, I just can’t appreciate the appeal of the greasepaint and the big shoes.
RANDI KREISS
Progress cuts in myriad directions. Naturally, I’m delighted that a woman, Kristen Michelle Wilson, was chosen to be in the spotlight. But I’m also delighted that her tenure will be brief. The circus’s tent will come down forever this spring, due to rising expenses, declining audiences and protests by animal rights activists.
Ringling Brothers’ elephants were retired to a Florida sanctuary some time ago, presumably due to pressure from animal advocates and the cost of upkeep.
When the circus closes, the clowns will also take their final bow, and not a moment too soon. If you grew up when I did, the circus was a must-see, go-to event every year. It was a big deal when the elephants paraded through New York City,
As a kid, though, I hated the circus. I never told my parents, because they seemed so invested in my “big day” at Madison Square Garden, but the whole scene felt skeevie. In the vernacular of the time, the bearded lady, the giant, the midgets and the skinniest man on earth scared the stuffing out of me. I couldn’t have articulated it then, but there was something awfully creepy, and just awful, about paying to stare at these people, who we now know suffered from various endocrine imbalances.
The tigers and elephants won’t miss the circus. Will we miss the creepy clowns?
There was nothing fun or amusing about the tigers tormented by men with whips, or the elephants prodded into kneeling and dancing and running in a circle, end to end. There was always the sense at the circus, just as there is even today at carnivals, of some malignant force lurking beneath the face paint.
Clowns, for obvious reasons, have become a common source of anxiety among kids today. It’s about the fake face, the false smile and the unknowable person behind the mask. I know there’s a rich history of great clowns, and I’ve vacationed in Sarasota, Florida, a town
Once upon a time, when the circus came to town in the boondocks, it was a thrill and an opportunity to see something one might never see again. But today, kids raised on videos and iPhones have neither the interest nor the attention span for a circus act. The immense skill of many of the performers eludes them. They want quick. I read that Ringling Brothers, in an effort to survive, kept shortening the acts. But the entertainment value of the circus has lost relevance for today’s children.
If you read “Water for Elephants,” by Sara Gruen, you got a good story along with a history of the circus in America over the past 100 years. It wasn’t all about sparkly young women and men flying through the air, trapeze to trapeze. The dark side of the circus during the Great Depression was this: When some traveling circuses couldn’t afford to pay their workers, they threw them off a bridge before pulling in to the last stop. Animal abuse was rife; living conditions for both humans and animals were often appalling. In modern times, conditions improved,
but the basic concept of subjecting wild animals to a lifetime of captivity and forced performance has become disturbing and unacceptable. In “Water for Elephants,” Rosie the elephant is prodded with gaffs and burned with cigarettes. When she goes berserk at the end and runs a spear through her trainer’s head, we root for Rosie.
There is a theory that culture and society evolve as time goes on, that we get better and more considerate of one another and increasingly sensitized to the needs of other inhabitants of our earth and even those of the earth itself. Still, this is a theory.
Many aspects of life in 2017 challenge the concept of an evolving society. In many ways, especially politically, we seem to be falling back.
But the end of the circus is a good thing, a progressive thing. Millions are left with great memories of the Big Top and the times the circus came to town. We can hold on to the good memories and also embrace modern sensibilities that are offended by the exploitation of animals.
Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
Climate change is not cyclical, and Republicans are way too focused on Hunter Biden.JERRY KREMER
something big is happening at the John A. Anderson Recreation Center, on North Oceanside Road, that will transform the area around the facility into a new park that is accessible for all children — including those with special needs. It’s called Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground, and the $1.5 million project is now on its way.
The conditions of the area, however, have raised some concerns. Unkempt grass. Faulty lighting fixtures. Inaccessible bathrooms. Faded shuffleboard courts.
But, never fear. The project plans to resolve this eyesore.
The village is currently working to upgrade the infrastructure by installing tubing that will hold new electric wiring, according to Mayor Francis Murray. This will provide all-new LED lighting around the entire project.
Existing restrooms are being completely gutted, replaced with new ADAcompliant facilities — the construction of which is expected to start in about a week.
“It’s going to take another year until it’s done,” the mayor said. “But it’s well on its way.”
The project will also include a new basketball court, tennis court, an irrigation system for the grass field, ADA-compliant walkways, all-new fencing, and a
To the Editor:
Re Mark Nolan’s column in last week’s issue, “We don’t have much time — AI is coming!”: Mr. Nolan’s warning is timely. His most frightening sentence is, “AI’s only limitation is that it is constrained by our limitations.”
Closer scrutiny of “our limitations” clarifies the nature and degree of the threat. Our limits, as humans, on perfidy and domination have yet to be found. Some among us already are, and will always, use any tool available to advance nefarious ends. Unity of the benevolent is necessary to limit the damage.
Our control as individuals over AI is minuscule. Whatever controls there are over its use, development or deployment are in the hands of a handful of corporate entities, semi-human creations with the status of “corporate citizens.” These beings operate to maximize profit and to maximize growth toward monopoly.
Creators and users of AI are already calculating its possible per- unit cost reductions. Workers will be sacrificed on the usual bloody altars of efficiency, consolidation and market share. Citizens and corporate citizens have
new walking track. Village representatives have previously stated that some or all of the courts will be removed during the construction process.
Named after longtime recreation superintendent Anthony Brunetta, who died in 2016, the project was initially planned for the east side of Hickey Field, along Sunrise Highway. It was moved to the rec center area due to concerns about noise and safety. The new location is far away from the Long Island Rail Road tracks so as not to disturb children with sensory issues.
The project has been a topic of discussion in the community for nearly a decade, but it officially started to take shape in 2015, when members of the Lions Club first approached village officials with the idea.
“We’ve raised almost $2 million for the project,” Murray said. “And it’s all free. It’s not costing the taxpayers anything.”
Plans for the project were jump-started after former State Sen. Dean Skelos presented a check for $500,000. But all that stalled when the then-majority leader was brought up on corruption charges, forcing him to resign.
To ensure that the project continued, State Sen. Todd Kaminsky officially awarded a grant to the village through the State and Municipal Grant Program.
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and
former Assemblywoman Judy Griffin also announced last summer that their chamber would chip in an additional $550,000 to complete the project.
In addition to the money provided by the state, the remaining cost of the project will be covered thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Rockville Centre Lions Club, the RVC Little League, the Tommy Brull Foundation, the Feil Family Foundation, the Rockville Centre PBA, RVC Blue Speaks, the Francis F. Wilson Elementary School, and the Tim McMullan Memorial Fund.
Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground, when complete, will feature a sensory dome, play structures with ramps, and a performance stage, and will be accessible to the general public with no residency requirement.
While the project has taken several years to even begin the preliminary legwork, we are lucky to live in such a determined village — where no matter the obstacle, the community sticks together to turn a vision such as this into a reality for our families and children.
Once the work is complete and the final brick has been laid, the playground will shine as a testament to this unified effort, where everyone can come together and enjoy all that makes Rockville Centre such a wonderful place to live, work — and play.
It was dated June 10, 1927, written from a home no longer standing at Exchange Street in Rochester, to a young woman in Ellicottville named lola.
“I am not driving taxi now. I quit Sunday night. Monday morning, I went to work again for the Salvation Army. Am not driving truck this time, but am helping on a wagon. I hope to get back on a truck again soon, but I am satisfied to get three square meals a day, and a bed to sleep in.”
lola, by the way, is my grandmother. The young man struggling to make ends meet at the height of the Roaring ’20s? OK, not hard to figure out: That’s my grandfather Donald. The cursive stretched across both sides of the yellowed, cardsize paper, sharing much of the mundanity many of us today might reserve for text messages or a quick phone call while driving home.
“While you were in Buffalo, did you go to any shows, where they had Vitaphone
pictures?” my grandfather asks. “In other words, ‘talking movies.’ I saw my first one here at Rochester, and it certainly is wonderful. I go to it nearly every night. There is no reading at all on the screen.”
I found this letter at the bottom of a box of family heirlooms a cousin of mine keeps at her home in Florida, and I was mesmerized. I have very little memory of my paternal grandparents. lola died when I was still an infant, and Donald when I was in kindergarten.
When I was growing up, my father would share many stories about his relationship with his parents — none of them good. Both would work all day, and at quitting time, they didn’t come home. Instead, they headed to the bar, where they would drown any remaining daylight with booze.
My dad and his siblings were left to fend for themselves, his older sister — by just a year — filling in as caretaker. When either of his parents were home, it was never pleasant. My dad shared how he once saved a bunch of money he earned setting pins at a local bowling
divergent interests here, but the history of .com, Enron, default swaps, the inviolability of trade secrets and class action restrictions, to name a few, indicate human citizens’ limits on our corporate compatriots.
Overwhelming majorities of the benevolent will be needed. This is theoretically possible, as this is what our government is for. However, given the governmental usefulness of AI’s capabilities, the great economic powers of our corporate citizenry, the allowances of Citizens United and our business/marketfriendly Supreme Court, overwhelming majorities must mobilize, rapidly, toward a clear goal.
Time is not on our side. Regulating this industry as a public utility, at least for a decade, while a plan for its most reasonable, least harmful integration into our culture, economy and polity is possible. But ...
BRIAn KElly Rockville CentreTo the Editor:
It’s been several years since then Speaker of the House nancy Pelosi announced that Congress would take up the issue of spam/ phishing phone calls and alleviate this problem. But since then the problem has grown worse.
I realize that Congress has many issues to deal with, foreign and domestic, including
alley so he could take an art course. When his mom found the stash of coins, she took it and spent in on a two-tone, brown Easter suit for my dad.
He was so angry, he wore that suit every day — whether it was a formal occasion or he was outside playing. The suit barely made it a month.
My life wasn’t like that at all, thank goodness. My dad never touched alcohol or cigarettes, which might explain why he’s about to turn 90 with the energy and health of a 60-year-old.
My mom worked so hard to provide for my little sister and me — the youngest of the seven children my parents had from previous marriages and their current one. A day for her could include driving a bus and then working at night as a bartender. Both of my parents grew up wanting for many things, and they ensured that their children wanted for nothing.
What I wouldn’t give, however, to see the letters my mom and dad exchanged after they first met at a roller-skating rink. They were hardly the young adults my grandparents were — both already experiencing marriage and divorce, and
the incessant political infighting that now dominates the news. The issue of spam calls has fallen by the wayside, rarely if ever mentioned, even as it increases and has evolved into a constant annoyance for Americans.
Many people in and outside n ew york state have told me they deal with it on a regular basis. I can receive a half-dozen or more such calls a day, often from callers (most with foreign accents) who identify themselves as working with or representing Medicare or private companies, such as CVS, or my utility company. If I don’t hang up, they make inquiries in an attempt to get personal information, or say that they have this or that offer for me. The situation has become untenable.
I have registered my phone number with various agencies, as directed, but this hasn’t stopped the calls.
Isn’t it time that Congress directed its attention to this problem? We shouldn’t have to deal with this ongoing problem, whose annoyance is only increasing. Surely the technology to do away with it is available — perhaps even the use of AI, which we’re now hearing so much about.
My congressman’s office directed me to contact my service provider, but this, I’m certain, would be ineffective, because this is a national problem that requires the attention of Congress to solve. They’re just passing the buck. Where is our government when you really need it? I’ve received several of these calls even as I’ve written this letter! Why should I have to deal with this?
ROBERT RUBAlSKy East Rockawayraising kids as part of it.
Instead, all I have is the memory of the notes they would leave each other every morning. My dad addressed his notes to “Sweetheart” and signed them “Sweetheart,” while my mom opted for “Honey.”
I remember how irritated I would be to see these notes between them. now, more than 30 years later, I would give anything just to find one of them at the bottom of a box somewhere. They may have been just as mundane as some of the letters between my grandparents, but still, each word is an expression of them. And thus, every note is a vital piece of my parents that I long to have again.
Writing letters — writing notes — has become a lost art in the century since Donald wrote to lola. But even today, there’s something special — even romantic — about not choosing a keyboard or a touchscreen, and instead picking up a pen and finding a sheet of paper.
I’m glad my grandfather did. And I’m glad my grandmother saved it. Because in those pages, I don’t see the grandparents I only heard about through my father. Instead we get a special glimpse into their hearts.
Michael Hinman is executive editor of Herald Community Newspapers.
Framework by Tim Baker
what I wouldn’t give to see more of the letters my parents exchanged.mICHaeL HInman
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