Rockville Centre Herald 12-08-2022

Holiday lighting draws a crowd

Curran takes back his past Assembly seat

By BEN FIEBERT bfiebert@liherald.com

After facing a stiff challenge from Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, challenger Brian Cur ran, a Republican, will be head ing to Albany once again, mark ing the end of a tight race in the 21st Assembly District.

“Yesterday, this long election campaign finally concluded with the completion of a mandatory hand recount,” Griffin said. “Unfortunately, by the slimmest of margins, I did not prevail.”

Tim Baker/Herald

RVC Mayor honored with lifetime Achievement

The race between Griffin, the incumbent Democrat, and Cur ran, who held the seat from 2010 to 2018, officially ended on Dec. 2. By a margin of just 138 votes in the final hand recount, Curran reclaimed the seat he lost to Grif fin four years ago. Griffin released a statement last Friday, in which she conceded and thanked her supporters.

She highlighted the narrow ness of her loss. “This incredibly close result of 50.1 percent to 49.9 percent truly conveys the impor tance of each and every vote,” she said.

“As the first woman elected to this seat and the first Democrat elected since 1974, I am proud of my record of legislative accom plishments.”

Griffin wished the constitu ents of District 21 all the best, and said she remained commit

Police hire four officers, promotes three to detective

By DANIEl oFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Rockville Centre’s Police Department has promoted three officers to the rank of detective and added four new officers to the rank and file, expanding its police force to 58.

Mayor Francis Murray said that when he was elected 11 years ago, there were 52 officers on the force. “Times have changed, and we recognize that,” Murray said. “We believe in policing in this village. This board believes in policing.”

Thanks to its robust police force, he said, the Village of Rockville Centre is now the

18th-safest village with a popu lation of 25,000 or more in the U.S.

On Monday, the new officers and detectives were sworn in before the village board. “Tonight it’s my pleasure to swear in seven deserving mem bers of our department,” Police Commissioner James Vafeades said, introducing each of them.

Detective Stefanie Balos, 32, came to the RVCPD in 2015 after graduating from Queens College with a degree in psychology, which she puts to good use as the department’s youth officer. Balos investigates any and all issues impacting the lives of children in the village, coordi

nating her efforts with local schools and parents. She will continue in this role as a detec tive.

Detective John Murphy, 38, has been a member of the department since 2014. Before that, he saw combat as a mem

ber of the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Murphy was a police officer in Ocean Beach and Westhamp ton before coming to Rockville Centre. Since then he has been a member of the Traffic Enforcement Unit and the Fire arms and Training Unit, and currently works in the Anti-

Crime Unit, where he will remain as a detective.

Detective Dominic Scicutella, 48, has been a member of the village force since 2013, after attending Dowling College and serving as a New York City police officer.

In Rockville Centre, Scicutel la has worked in the traffic unit,

Family members join Rockville Centre mayor Francis Murray to receive the Bishop John R. McGann Lifetime Achievement Award at the Mercy Ball on Dec. 3. Story, more photos, Page 6.

FRANCIs MuRRAy mayor Rockville Centre

Herald Sc H ool S

Fourth-grade students help donate food to pantry

The United Church Nursery School, located at 430 Morris Ave. in Rockville Centre, col lected food and other household goods during the month of November as part of a mission program focusing on a differ ent community organization each month. Thanks to the gen erosity of students and parents, on Dec. 2, several hundred canned goods, diapers, and boxed food items were deliv ered to the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center at 150 N. Centre Ave. in Rockville Centre.

Submitted by United Church of Rockville Centre

Fourth-grade students at the United Church Nursery School donated hundreds of canned and non-perishable food items to the pantry at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Rockville Centre.

Courtesy United Church of Rockville Centre

RVC is rockin’ around the village green

Members of the Rockville Centre community filled the Village Green along Maple Avenue on Thursday, Dec. 1, to ring in the holiday season with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree and Chanukah Menorah.

Since this year marked the first time that the village celebrated the holiday season with both a tree and a menorah, they invited Rabbi David Lerner of Congrega tion B’nai Sholom-Beth David to give the benediction and Father Anthony Twum of St. Agnes Cathedral to give the blessing of the tree.

People gathered excitedly around the tree to count down the event as the two VIP guests, Caroline and Mat thew Lennon of the St. Agnes Cathedral School, flipped the switch and lit up the night sky.

After the ceremony, students with the South Side Mid dle School Chorale, the South Side High School ‘Cho raleers,’ and the South Side High School Wind Ensemble treated patrons to a performance of holiday classics.

And, of course, the holiday festivities wouldn’t be com plete without a special visit from Santa Claus himself, who rode up to the tree along Maple Avenue atop a fire engine.

Special gueStS caroline Lennon, 10, and Matthew Lennon, 8, joined Rockville Centre Village Trustees Michael Sepe, Emilio Grillo, Katie Conlon, Rabbi Michael Cohen of Central Synagogue, Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley, Rabbi David Lerner of Congregation B’nai Sholom-Beth David, and Mayor Francis Murray for the lighting of the Christmas tree and Chanukah Menorah.

MeMberS of the Experience Vineyard Christian Fellowship Church offer hot cocoa and candy canes to 8-year old Keira Crisci.

hundredS gathered along the Village Green in Rockville Centre for the annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 1.

Sue Grieco/Herald photos

the South Side Middle School Chorale and South Side High School ‘Choraleers’ perform holiday classics for the crowd.

–Daniel Offner

Rockville Centre police now at 58 members

and most recently in the Anti-Crime Unit.

Officer Nordwing Veszter, 36, came to the U.S. from Romania, and went to work as a patrol officer with the New York City Police Department. He joined the village force earlier this year, and has continued focusing on learning Eng lish, which he accomplished in just two years. He graduated from John Jay Col lege with an undergraduate degree and a master’s in criminal justice, and will be a patrol officer in Rockville Centre.

Officer Michael Boncore, 36, was born and raised on Long Island and joined the department earlier this year, after a stint as a deputy sheriff in the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office. Bon core, who previously worked in Central Islip’s 1st District Court, will also be a patrol officer.

Officer Travis Nardello, 31, was born and raised in Holbrook, where he attended Sachem North High School before going on to study criminal justice at Suffolk Community College. Nardello was a police officer with the NYPD for six years before joining the Rockville Centre department, where he will work the night tour as a patrol officer.

Officer Samantha Giacchina, 34, was also born and raised on Long Island. She graduated from Centereach High School and studied business at SUNY Stony Brook.

Giacchina joins the village’s patrol unit after serv ing as an officer in the State Police Department at Stony Brook, where she was also assigned to the patrol unit.

Vafeades pointed out that in the past week, thanks to the quick response of local police officers, the depart ment apprehended a suspect in two recent residential burglaries on the north end of town.

“I don’t want you to think that because of the crimes this past week, that crime is up,” Vafeades said. “In

fact, crime has actually decreased since last year in many areas.”

With the addition of the new officers and detectives, the commissioner said, he was hopeful that the number of crimes would continue to drop in the year ahead.

He also urged residents to remember to lock their homes’ and vehicles’ doors, because most of the crimes that have occurred recently have been crimes of conve nience, and it is important to try to prevent them before they happen.

Daniel Offner/Herald

The Rockville cenTRe Police Department swore in three new detectives and four new officers on Dec. 5.

Mayor receives lifetime achievement award

Friends of Mercy honors Mayor Francis X. Murray at the 86th annual Mercy Ball

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Hundreds gathered at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on Saturday, Dec. 3, for the Friends of Mercy Hospital’s 86th annual Mercy Ball.

Each year, three honorees are selected by the Friends of Mercy Hospital based on their ongoing commitment to improve and advance the level of care provided by Catholic Health’s Mercy Hospital.

In recognition of his years of support, charity, service, and leadership, the Friends of Mercy Hospital presented this year’s Bishop John R. McGann Lifetime Achievement Award to Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray.

“I am truly humbled by this recogni tion and award,” Murray told the Herald. “Mercy Hospital and its staff continue to be a big part of our community and con sistently provide tremendous service and care to our residents.”

The hospital and its staff have always been very special to Murray, who has con tinued his commitment to the medical center where he, his father, siblings, chil dren, and grandchildren were all born, by serving on several of the hospital’s boards.

This year, the Friends of Mercy Hospi

tal also honored Dr. Aleem Ali, who was presented with the Theodore Roosevelt Award for Outstanding Achievement, for contributing to the development of Long Island’s community hospitals, and Helen Helkowski, who was presented with the Sister Mary Nadine Casey CIJ Award for her efforts to honor the values of the hos pital and its founders.

Catholic Health’s Mercy Hospital was founded in 1913 by the Nursing Sisters of the Congregation of the Infant Jesus, and has remained devoted to the charitable care of the underserved throughout the surrounding communities.

Over the last 86 years, the Friends of Mercy organization has proudly support ed their mission to deliver passionate medical care in an ever-changing climate.

In recent years, the organization’s efforts have helped with upgrades in the Neonatal ICU, labor and delivery units, and the construction of a family room at the Good Shepherd Hospice at Mercy Hos pital.

Proceeds raised this year will also help go towards the construction of two new facilities at the hospital including the Pain Management Center of Excellence, and the new state-of-the-art Pre-Surgical Testing Facility, which are both expected to open next year.

ONE OF tHE many annual traditions at the Mercy Ball is the honor guard, comprised of high school students who escort the Grand March of dignitaries into the ballroom for the event.

Tim Baker/Herald photos MERcy HOspItAL pREsIDENt Joseph Manopella, right, and his wife Joanne Manopella, welcome Bishop Andrzej Zglejszewski to the event.

FRIENDs OF MERcy President Michael J. Boranian, left, and Mercy Ball Chair Gloria DiSciullo, right, present the Sister Mary Nadine Casey CIJ Award to Helen Helkowski.

Homemakers give back to keep vets warm

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

Each year, as the winter weather starts to cool down, the Rockville Centre Homemakers pitch in to help donate much-needed socks, and personalized cards to veterans.

This year, the group pitched in to donate 250 pairs of socks — 200 for the men and 50 for the women in the armed services — and a quilt, which was deco rated in Stars and Stripes.

“The Rockville Centre homemakers want to make sure that the men and women (in the military) know that their service has not been forgotten,” the club’s co-president Mary Ann Grandaz za said. “The white socks are wrapped in red white and blue ribbon with an attached note that states thank you for your service, the holiday cards all read, ‘Thank you for your service.’”

The organization is composed of about 60 women from ages 50 to 97 regu larly meet to share and enjoy various skills and activities.

The club, which is currently celebrat ing 105 years in Nassau County, has been giving back to local veterans for more than the last decade.

“We just want to give back the best way we can, and know that we can make a difference,” Grandazza said. “A kind gesture goes a long way.”

All of the socks are purchased at the

Sock Factory in Garden City and are decorated in red, white and blue ribbon with a homemade tag thanking them for their service. The socks are then pack

aged and donated to the American Legion Post No. 303 in Rockville Centre, which helps deliver them to the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency.

“They do a great job,” American Legion Post Commander Frank Colón said. “They’re a nice bunch of ladies and they appreciate helping out.”

In past years these socks were dis tributed to veterans at the Northport VA Medical Center, the A. Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility in Uniondale, and to troops overseas.

The RVC Homemakers have done a great deal for the community over the years, including their support to Catho lic Health’s Mercy Medical Center, South Nassau Communities Hospital and other local organizations, which they have helped by making pillows for breast cancer patients, hats for prema ture babies, blankets for cancer patients, and red scarves for heart patients.

Colón said that they also help out with the “Stand Down for Homeless Vet erans” event every year at the Armory in Freeport.

“They always want to help out the veterans,” Colón said. “We truly appre ciate them and think it’s great what they’re doing.”

The RVC Homemakers meet on Tues days at the John A. Anderson Recre ation Center, 111 N. Oceanside Rd., and anyone 18 or older is welcome to join. Their next meeting will be held on Tues day, Jan. 3, 2023 at 10 a.m. For more information, contact co-president Karen Alterson at kaltersonk4@gmail.com.

Courtesy RVC Homemakers AmERIcAN LEgION POst No. 303 Commander Frank Colón, left, joins the RVC Homemakers’ Betty Iaconetti of North Merrick, Karen Alterson of Oceanside, Anna Biamonte of Merrick, seated with the quilt, Laura Schuler of Rockville Centre, Patty Gaffney of Oceanside, Mary Ann Grandazza of Rockville Centre, and American Legion member Pete Kaiser, as they donate much-needed socks and personalized cards to veterans.

Balloon Mission is up and away to save

In its early stages, nonprofit sets tone for future

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Where do helium-filled bal loons go when they’re released into the sky?

Cynthia Seibold had that same question. And she discovered that the old axiom was true: What goes up must come down. But not in ways people might like.

The North Merrick resident with a background in insurance underwriting, spent a lot of time outdoors at the start of the coronavirus pandemic. She noticed, however, that among all the litter found in the various parks, preserves and beaches she visit ed, one category stood out: bal loons.

Or rather, shreds of bal loons. Seibold found their strings and what was left of their plastic or rubber bodies impacting trees and plants and, of course, wildlife — animals that could easily mistake bal loon pieces for food.

It’s not that bal loon releases — or how they poten tially threaten the environment — is something new. But the pandemic created a new surge of such helium-intensive events as a different way to share birth days, graduations and retirements.

“Balloons are (a) leading cause of pol lution in our waters and our air,” Seibold said. “They break down into microplas tics and nanoplastics. I kept saying to myself, ‘There has to be a better way.’”

She found it with her nonprofit, Bal loon Mission.

“Our program is to collect balloons before they end up on the land and in oceans, reducing our carbon footprint and the harmful microplastics that are gener ated from balloons,” Seibold said. “And for every balloon that is sold and respon sibly collected, we feel it’s going to be one less piece of litter that’s harming our wildlife.”

Still, Seibold wants to make one thing very clear: She is not “anti-balloon.”

“This is a growing issue,” she said. “I think people need to know that there are options of ballooning responsibly. We’re not telling you to not have your balloons, but discard them in an appropriate man ner.”

Although the nonprofit is in its early stages, Seibold has already received a great deal of support while building rela tionships with local and statewide organi zations. That includes the Hempstead town sanitation department, and the state environmental conservation department.

One of Seibold‘s primary goals is to

the get the message out that Balloon Mis sion is collecting balloons with plans to set up collection bins as early as January so people can properly dispose their holi day balloons.

Those bins will be cardboard boxes with Balloon Mission signage, Seibold explained. Locations are still being deter mined, but she hopes to have them in community-oriented locations like fire houses, Veterans of Foreign Wars halls and libraries.

On a national level, Seibold said, peo ple are noticing the effects balloons have on the environment.

“There was actually a New York Times article that came out in March of 2022 that talks about this surge in balloon fren zy,” she said. “We couldn’t celebrate and we couldn’t do things when we were in lockdown.

“We did these big balloon displays, and they’ve gotten even bigger, and it’s not going away. People want this — they want a balloon collection. They want options. They want to feel like they’re part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

Through her research and communica tion with Hempstead town officials, Sei bold learned the municipality actually passed a local law prohibiting the inten tional release of balloons in 2019. Yet, bal loon releases still happen, she said, mak ing it important that signage goes up — perhaps sometime next spring — advising

against such activities.

Seibold is working closely with ACDS, an organization that offers lifetime services to people of all ages with intellectual disabilities. Formerly the Association for Chil dren with Down Syndrome, the organization has locations in North Merrick and Plainview.

Jane Cohen, the day habilita tion services supervisor at ACDS, says it’s important for her group to offer volunteers to various envi ronmental organizations, and that its members are excited about helping Seibold’s nonprofit.

“In January, we’re going to start collecting (balloons) from various pickup sites, and then we’re going to bring them back to our hub sites and sift through them,” Cohen said. Volunteers “can work on their office skills and note-taking, so they can feel like they’ve accomplished some thing. It’s very rewarding for our individ uals.”

ACDS plans to provide some 200 volun teers to Balloon Mission.

“We feel this is a symbiotic relation ship,” Seibold said, adding it “works in keeping with ACDS’s goal of increasing life and social skills, and work readiness for their participants.”

She also hopes to educate people on alternatives to balloons.

MANy ARE uNAwARE the helium-filled balloons they release can harm the environment. Sea turtles and other animals can mistake the balloons for food.

a practice of the past.

“I’m not looking to get rid of balloons — they make people light up,” she said. “I would like to start thinking of alterna tives. Can we blow bubbles? Can we send up a nice waft of smoke or sage into the air? It’s about finding these other ways of commemorating those moments in our life.”

Seibold hopes her nonprofit will get people thinking about ways to help find solutions.

“There are people that are smarter than me out there,” she said, “and I need those people in on the Balloon Mission.”

Photos courtesy Cynthia Seibold

CyNthiA SEiBOLD, fOuNDER and executive director of the nonprofit Balloon Mission, found an abandoned balloon at Lido Beach, a Hempstead town park. Seibold is on a quest to raise awareness about how damaging to the environment helium-filled balloon releases are, with hopes of making that

we’re not telling you to not have your balloons, but discard them in an appropriate manner.

CyNthiA SEiBOLD Founder, Balloon Mission

Buy a Brick

Celebrate or honor your loved ones this holiday season and give the gift of a lasting legacy in the Mount Sinai South Nassau garden, located at the corner of Oswald Court and One Healthy Way. Purchase an engraved brick, tree, or garden bench, or name the entire plaza and garden space that thousands of patients, visitors, and employees will see every year as they enter and exit the hospital’s front entrance

Honor a loved one or someone who made a di erence in your life. Remember a special person or celebrate a special occasion. Support Mount Sinai South Nassau’s mission and vision for a healthier tomorrow.

Clavin, Khzouz, Richner honored at gala

Money raised will help Nassau Community College feed the hungry

By ANDRE SILVA asilva@liherald.com

It was a night to remember, and a night to recognize the people and businesses that help make Nassau Community College what it is.

It was the annual gala of the Nassau Community College Foundation, taking place not far from the campus at the Cra dle of Aviation Museum in Garden City.

Among those honored were Hemp stead town supervisor Don Clavin, NICE Bus chief executive Jack Khzouz, NCC administrator Charmian Smith, and Richner Communications, the parent company of Herald Commu nity Newspa pers.

Adorned in their best suits, ties and dresses, guests were immediately offered cham pagne and given a chance to pose for photos in front of a red carpet display. From there, it was a tour of the model planes and his toric aviation displays before being invited to sit at their respective tables in the main dining room.

ChARmIAN SmITh interim VP, academic student services, NCC

Leading the night off was Donna Drake of her self-titled inspirational tele vision show introducing guests like Joy Dedonato, an NCC alum, and executive director of the NCC Foundation.

“I’ll never forget the people I met and the values I learned at Nassau Communi ty College,” Dedonato said. “This place taught me to hit the wall, where you can not go further, and then go further any way.”

NCC president Maria Conzatti then introduced the honorees, selected for their support. Like Clavin and Richner Communications, both of which publi cize important notices to students, while also providing advertising and market ing.

Clavin, in fact, is a staunch supporter of the college, Conzatti said, thanking him for what he has done as an elected official. Like helping to organize The Nest at NCC — a non-profit organization that aims to alleviate hunger for stu dents, employees and their families.

“Some people say it takes a village to raise a child,” Conzatti said. “And were proud that this village raised so many students who come back to support our college.”

Baldwin’s Charmian Smith is NCC’s interim vice president of academic stu dent services, telling the crowd she was honored to know her colleagues recog nized her in such a way.

“This gala helps to bring us all togeth

er after the years of the Covid-19 pan demic,” she said. “It’s a great time to cel ebrate each other, our accomplishments, the community, and our families.”

Clavin is an NCC alum, and has count ed some of the professors there as actual members of his family.

“So many of my friends started their lives at this institution,” the town super visor said. “To be recognized is just hum bling.”

Stuart Richner talked about the importance of providing well-rounded learning experiences.

“Educating young adults takes a team of professionals and advisers, which we understand,” the Herald Community

Newspapers publisher said. “Here at Richner, we work as a team to pro vide hyperlocal news to our commu nities.”

Khzouz described his being hon ored by the foundation “amazing.” NICE Bus employs more than 1,000 people, transporting more than 70,000 each day in 450 vehicles. That’s more than a million miles a month.

“We have a mission, which we live every day,” Khzouz said. “That mission is to make sure our bus services are an asset to Nassau County institutions and its citizens.”

And now NICE is celebrating 10 years

in Nassau County.

“We use large complex vehicles to drive through Nassau County and Queens at peak rush hour with impatient New Yorkers. What could go wrong?”

Khzouz joked. “Yet, we prevail anyway.”

Proceeds from the gala will help The Nest at NCC food pantry. To make a dona tion, too, visit tinyurl.com/GiveNCC.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

ThE NASSAu CommuNITy College Foundation honored Hempstead town supervisor Don Clavin, NICE Bus chief executive Jack Khzouz, NCC administrator Charmian Smith, and Richner Communications, parent company of Herald Community Newspapers, during a fundraising gala last week.

mARIA CoNzATTI, pRESIDENT of Nassau Community College, honored Baldwin’s Charmian Smith during the Nassau Community College Foundation Gala last week.

SuppoRTERS AND INVITED guests gathered to celebrate four honorees at the Nassau Community College Foundation’s annual gala last week at the Cradle of Aviation Museum.

It’s a great time to celebrate each other, our accomplishments, the community, and our families.

ScHoolS

Hewitt students take a field trip to the Catskills

Fifth grade students at Hewitt Elementary School in Rockville Centre enjoyed a three-day educational field trip to the Ashokan Center in the Catskill Moun tains, from Wednesday Nov. 30 through Friday, Dec. 2.

The Ashokan Center is an outdoor education, conference, and retreat center in upstate New York, which was reportedly a favorite hunting and fishing ground for the Munsee Indians for generations, before it became home to Americans of Euro pean descent in the 1730s.

“From the moment students arrive, we initiate community building activities that are built into the very fabric of a shared Ashokan trip experience. Students can embark into scientific investigations in the natural world, participate in living history classes and colonial crafts, and even learn new songs,” the Ashokan Center states on its website.

While on the filed trip, students worked together to con tribute to daily life at the Ashokan Center by learning how to help bake and chop wood. The students also learned about the natural features of the area and the imporantce of respecting the environment.

“We believe that students learn best through rich hands-on experiences in nature, history, music, and art,” its website states. “Our holistic approach inspires students to make deep er interdisciplinary connections that renew classroom engagement and spark lifelong learning.”

Fifth grade students from Hewitt participated in a roleplaying experience in a one-room schoolhouse from 1817, made colonial-era crafts, and hiked through an old Eastern Hemlock forest along the Esopus Creek.

And the fun didn’t stop there. Students also got the chance to press locally grown apples into delicious cider using the antique cider press. Each student had a chance to participate, work the press, and taste the results.

They also learned about the history of archery along with the necessary rules, safety procedures, and techniques before they hit the range and let their arrows fly.

StudentS hiked to Cathedral Gorge, a glacier gorge that features an 80-foot waterfall—the walls of which reveal rock layers that are millions of years old.

StudentS poSe for a photo while hiking through an old Eastern Hemlock forest along the Esopus Creek.

StudentS learn the history of archery along with the necessary rules, safety procedures, and archery techniques before hitting the range and letting the arrows fly.

Photos courtesy RVC School District

Curran thanks future constituents for win

ted to their “well-being as a neighbor, friend, and citizen.”

“Rest assured that I will still be advo cating for you,” she concluded.

Curran was the mayor of Lynbrook from 2007 to 2010. He was elected to the Assembly in 2010, and held the seat for eight years, defeating Democratic chal lengers Dermond Thomas, Jeffrey Fried man, Adam Shapiro and Travis Bour geois.

Curran told reporters at a Herald roundtable that his top priorities would be public safety, reducing taxes and improving education. A lot of work need ed to be done, he said.

“It is not the same district — or at least the very same characteristics of what it used to be — where it was safe and more affordable,” he said at the Herald roundta ble. “There are not the same characteris tics in District 21 from when I left and when I was asked to run. That’s the rea son why I decided to do it.”

“I would like to thank Assemblywom an Griffin for her four years of service to the residents of Assembly District 21,” Curran said in a statement last Saturday. “I would also like to thank all my cam paign volunteers, who were determined to make this campaign successful.”

Curran took note of the “overwhelm ing voter enrollment advantage” that Griffin had in describing his win as huge victory. “Our campaign focused on the

issues that the residents of the district cared about,” Curran said. “And our vic tory demonstrated their desire, regard less of their political party affiliation, to change the course of Albany and our state.”

“To every resident who trusted me with their vote, I would like to say a heart felt thank you,” he added. “For those who did not support me in this election, know that I will work every day over the next two years to earn your trust and support.”

Enhancing public safety and increas ing the supply of affordable housing are two of the challenges Curran said he planned to tackle in Albany. “I will work tirelessly on behalf of Assembly District 21 to make New York state and, more importantly, our communities, a safer and more affordable place to live and raise a family,” he said. “I will not stop in my

efforts to reverse Albany’s bad policies and decision making.”

Curran said he planned to bring an optimistic outlook with him to Albany. “There is a better and brighter future ahead for New York state,” he said, “and I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve as your representative in the New York State Assembly.”

LIJ Medical Center is in the top 10% of hospitals nationally for oncology, according to U.S.News&WorldReport.

Our doctors are raising health by pioneering innovative approaches to cancer — from novel chemotherapy techniques to first in the nation robotic mastectomies with minimal scarring. Because when it comes to cancer, there’s no status quo. There’s only “how far can we go?”

After four yeArs of representing Assembly District 21, Judy Griffin conceded the race to Brian Curran.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

NAssAu CouNty PubliC Administrator Brian Curran won the election in Assembly District 21.

S H O P L O C A L

STEPPING OUT

arrives on local stages

The festive tradition continues to delight

By Karen Bloom

Neil deGrasse Tyson

How real is what you’re seeing up on the big screen? Astrophysicistlecturer Neil deGrasse Tyson knows and he’ll clue us in, separating fact from fiction — in a new installment of ‘An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies: The Sequel.’ Derived from yet another set of 30 films/television shows that range from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ to ‘Mary Poppins’ to ‘Game of Thrones’ to ‘Harry Potter’ to ‘The Lion King,’ this lecture is an entertaining and enlightening review of all the science that our favorite entertainment got wrong, combined with some of the stuff they got right. This lecture also incorporates the latest films as well as some classics that you may not have known had any science in them at all.

Friday, Dec. 9, 8 p.m. $250 (VIP), $100, $75, $50. $250 VIP ticket includes a post-show Q&A. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, Route 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100, or TillesCenter.org.

New York

Theatre offers its 40th season of the holiday classic, presented in the style of the legendary George Balanchine, on the John Cranford Adams Playhouse stage at Hofstra University.

The dance theatre closely follows the Balanchine tradition — from storyline through choreography, as well as sets and costumes. It is the largest production on Long Island, according to new artistic director, — and dance theatre alum Nicole Loizides Albruzzese.

The dance theatre’s version keeps to the tone set by company founder Frank Ohman, which remains true to the spirit of New York City Ballet’s Lincoln Center production. As a former student and New York City Ballet soloist under George Balanchine, Ohman was one of a select few authorized to use the original pas de deux choreography of his mentor, which continues to distinguish this production.

Through the years, Ohman created original dances and scenes to enhance Balanchine’s iconic vision. Now Albruzzese — who was a student at the dance theatre’s Ohman School of Ballet under Ohman and performed most of the children’s roles in “The Nutcracker” during her time there — returns as a professional dancer in the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy before her international dance career, follows in her mentor’s footsteps in keeping to the Balanchine standard.

Special guest artists New York City Ballet principal dancers Indiana Woodward and Daniel Ulbricht take on the roles of Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, joining a cast of Ohman School students to bring the holiday classic to the stage.

With the elegant Christmas party scene, the battle of the toy soldiers and giant mice, the intense snow storm, and elaborate dancing in the Land of the Sweets, this “Nutcracker” is sparkling treat that maintains its enduring appeal.

Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17-18, noon and 5 p.m. $42, $32 seniors and children 12 and younger. Hofstra University, John Cranford Adams Playouse, Hempstead. For tickets, call (631) 462-0964, or visit OhmanBallet.org.

Curry’s interpretation at Tilles Center stars New York City Ballet soloist Miriam Miller as the Sugar Plum Fairy and New York City Ballet principal Tyler Angle as her Cavalier. Also of note, Fox Weather meteorologist (and Instagram and TikTok sensation) Nick Kosir joins the cast of more than 60 students and professional dancers as Dr. Stahlbaum, Clara’s father.

The Park Avenue Chamber Symphony, under the baton of maestro David Bernard, performs Tchaikovsky’s glorious score.

“This year, I’ve taken some elements and changed them to keep the production fresh,” Curry says. “Our professional dancers, along with our incredibly talented academy students, have accepted the challenge of these new variations and character developments. I’ve enriched the production with more theatricality and many new dramatic elements.

“Having our guest artists from New York City Ballet and the wonderful Nick Kosir is like having a very sweet cherry on top of an already decadent sundae.”

Company member Briana Laman dances the role of Clara, with fellow company member Ryan Cavaline as Nutcracker Prince. For this production, Curry has reinterpreted the central first act pas de deux in the prelude to Waltz of the Snowflakes (usually danced by a Snow Queen and a Snow King) for Clara and the Nutcracker Prince.

“Having this pas de deux danced by these two characters intensifies the connection between the two,” he says. “We see the arc of their relationship and gives the opportunity for Clara’s dream to have a more poignant and personal effect on our audiences.”

Saturday, Dec. 17, 1 and 6 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 18, 2 p.m. Tickets are $89, $69, $59, $49. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, Route 25A, Brookville. For tickets, call (516) 299-3100 or visit TillesCenter.org or EglevskyBallet.org.

Kenny G’s

The Miracles Holiday & Hits

Ring in the holiday season with smooth jazz saxophonist Kenny G. The crossover jazz icon has enjoyed phenomenal success across the pop, jazz and R&B charts for more than three decades. Known for his lyrical and emotive style, his music has garnered a devoted fan base and made him one of the biggest-selling instrumentalists of all-time. The sound of his sax is as iconic as his curly coif. Indeed, both are instantly recognizable. Expect an evening filled with a festive spirit and contemporary classics. A reprise of last year’s successful outing,’The Miracles Holiday & Hits Tour’ features a mix of holiday hits and fan favorites infused with his captivating and distinctive blending of genres. The tour follows the release of his 19th studio album, ‘New Standards,’ and the acclaimed HBO documentary ‘Listening to Kenny G.’

Thursday, Dec. 15, 8 p.m.

NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road., Westbury. TheTheatreAtWestbury.com or LiveNation.com, or (516) 247-5200.

New York Dance Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’

Dance

Those

sugar plum fairies and various figments of a young girl’s imagination come alive this month. The beloved holiday confection never goes out of style.

Courtesy New York Dance Theatre

Photo: Clara is enchanted with her nutcracker in the party that opens the ballet.

Eglevsky Ballet’s innovative ‘The Nutcracker’ Long Island’s professional dance company is known for its inventive staging of Clara’s delightful journey, featuring additional choreography by Executive Artistic Director Maurice Brandon Curry.

Courtesy Eglevsky Ballet

Photo: The enchanting snow scene is a shimmering showstopper.

THE SCENE

Fresh food at the farmers market

Visit the Rockville Centre Farmers Market each Sunday, through Dec. 18, from 7 a.m. to noon, in the parking lot across from Bigelow’s Clam Bar on Sunrise Highway and Long Beach Road. Operated by the Long Island Growers Market, vendors include Norman’s Best Pickles, Orwashers Baked Goods, Natural Hounds Wet Dog Food, and Lithology Brewing Co. For more information, call (631) 323-3653.

Christmas Tree of Lights celebration

Shrek The Musical

Dec.

Sing your heart out

It’s karaoke night in Rockville

December 8, 2022 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD 16 NEW YORK DANCE THEATRE’S 40TH SEASON OF A FAMILY HOLIDAY TRADITION The Nutcracker HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY JOHN CRANFORD ADAMS PLAYHOUSE JOHN CRANFORD PLAYHOUSE SATURDAY, 12/17 AND SUNDAY, 12/18 SATURDAY, 12/17 AND SUNDAY, 12/18 AT 12PM AND 5PM AT 12PM AND 5PM

STARRING NEW YORK CITY BALLET'S STARRING NEW YORK CITY BALLET'S INDIANA WOODWARD AND INDIANA WOODWARD AND DANIEL ULBRICHT DANIEL ULBRICHT TICKETS: $42 TICKETS: $42 SENIOR AND CHILD 12 & UNDER: $32 SENIOR AND CHILD 12 & UNDER: $32 WWW.OHMANBALLET.ORG WWW.OHMANBALLET.ORG 631.462.0964 631.462.0964 1192634

Holiday fun

Visit the streets of 19th century London during the darkest days of the year, in this adaption of the classic “A Christmas Carol,” with the Experiential Theater Company, Thursday and Friday, Dec. 8-9, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Sunday, Dec. 11, 2 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 14-15, 10:15 a.m. and noon, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage. Meet the Cratchit family, Mr. Scrooge, and the ghosts of past, present and future in this interactive show that weaves together music, humor, puppetry and collaboration. Celebrate the change of seasons through this beloved literary tale. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

Sugar Plum Ball/ Galactic Gala

Bring the kids to celebrate the season at festivities hosted by the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Sunday, Dec.11, noon-4 p.m., at the Chateau Briand in Carle Place.

Kids ages 4-12, accompanied by their adult guest (Mom, Dad, grandparent, etc.), will enjoy a unique party featuring food, fun and some special guests including princesses, fairies and visitors from a Galaxy Far Far Away. With lunch, DJ, magic show, dancing, raffles, games, photo ops, and more. Cost is $75 per child, $100 per adult.

Advance reservation only. All proceeds benefit CP Nassau. Register online at CPNassau.org or call CP Nassau at (516) 3782000 ext 651.

Having an event?

LI Warriors Sock Hockey Clinic

Add some skills to your sock skating game with members of the LI Warriors recreational hockey league at Long Island Children’s Museum, Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-noon. Learn about stick handling and passing as you master wrist and slap shots on the LICM “ice” in a hockey clinic for ages 3 and up. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

Kids in the kitchen

Have fun with food at the John A. Anderson Recreation Center, 111 N. Oceanside Road, Monday, Dec. 12, 4 p.m. Kids in kindergarten through first grade can learn about good nutrition and how to prepare gourmet dishes — and then enjoy eating them. Those in attendance will also receive a full book of recipes including the dishes they have created. Before registering discuss any food allergies or restrictions. Registration is available via RockvilleCentre.RecDesk.com.

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

On exhibit

Photography’s ascent in the art world is an international phenomenon. Nassau County Museum of Art’s star-studded exhibition spans the historical roots of the medium. View works by Ansel Adams and his generation and the thrilling, large-format color works of such contemporary masters as Cindy Sherman, Thomas Struth, James Casebere and Gregory Crewdson, among others. From the documentary to the painterly, images bear witness to the times. On view through March 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Matinee time

Join crafty Jack Frost on a magical, musical winter adventure, in Plaza Theatrical’s production, Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m.; Sunday, Dec. 12, noon. The story, narrated by the groundhog Pardon-Me-Pete, tells about the immortal winter sprite, who falls in love with a human girl named Elisa after rescuing her. Tickets are $15. Bring the kids to the Plaza stage at The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Department; ex-Chief and Secretary James Lang of the Malverne Fire Department; and ex-Chief and Burn Center Director John Hennig of the Rockville Centre Fire Department.

Firefighters donate to the Burn Center

The Fourth Battalion Fire District recently raised $17,000 to benefit the Nas sau County Firefighters Burn Center Foundation at its 16th annual fundraiser. The Fourth Battalion Fire District is composed of the East Rockaway, Lakev iew, Lynbrook, Malverne, and Rockville Centre fire departments. The Fourth Bat talion has raised nearly $200,000 for the

Burn Center Foundation over the years.

Presentation of this year’s checks to the Foundation was made at a Battalion meeting held in Lynbrook Nov. 30.

The Nassau County Burn Center is located at Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow.

Courtesy Steve Grogan Presenting checks for the Burn Center were, from left, ex-Chief and Battalion Treasurer Kevin Bien of the Lynbrook Fire Department; ex-Chief and Vice-Chairman Joe Mihalich of the East Rockaway Fire Department; Chief Dominic Pignataro of the East Rockaway Fire Department; Burn Center Foundation Director Barry Scheu; ex-Chief and Fourth Battalion Chairman Mark Murray of the Rockville Centre Fire

Contributed by Steve Grogan

Herald Sc H ool S

South Side students make first quarter honor roll

South Side High School stu dents who excelled in their aca demics during the first quarter of the 2022-2023 school year were recently named, based on their cumulative grade point average, to the school honor roll.

9th Grade Honor Roll

Aiello, Ryan Katherine

Ali, Chelsea Princess

Altman, Peter J

Alvarado, Jayden T

Arslan, Kyla R

Barrett, Sean

Belling, Caden William

Beria, Adrianna

Brower, Christian J

Caracciolo, Olivia E

Carbajal Ramirez, Helen J

Catrini, Daniella

Corvetti, Luke P

Cosgrove, Molly L

Coyne, Noelle E

DeRespiris, Brooke T

DiFrancisca, Liam J

Donovan, Sophia L

Doreste, Brooke F

Douglas, Markal

Dryden, Jane L

Erickson, Connor T Faranda, Julie Fernandez, Jose A Forgione, Francesca G Gibson, Dylan J Halikias, Serena M Herard, James C Hoyos, Alice Nevada

Eastern Nassau Head Start

1309 Wantagh Avenue Wantagh, NY 11793

Tel. (516) 221-0871 Fax. (516) 781-0474

Five Towns Head Start

Five Towns Community Center 270 Lawrence Avenue Lawrence, NY 11559

Tel. (516) 239-6244

Fax. (516) 239-9246

Freeport Head Start

74 North Main Street Freeport, NY 11520

Tel. (516) 546-8251 Fax. (516) 546-8255

Hempstead Head Start

65 Dartmouth Street

Hempstead, NY 11550

Tel. (516) 538-8292 Fax. (516) 478-6741

Billias, Talia H Borchick, Hailey M

Borchick, Kate T Bowe, Liam S Boyens, Jack W

Brancaccio, Gabrielle F Brand, Patrick J Breen, Amalia E

Darlington, Jack R DiMarco, Lucas S DiSalvo, Mia G Elias, Salvador G English, Olivia J Faranda, Ella Feigenbaum, Joshua L Ferazani, Lauren M

Long Beach Head Start

1 East Pine Street Long Beach, NY 11561

Tel. (516) 544-4051 Fax. (516) 544-4054

Rockville Centre Head Start

Currently Located at 1309 Wantagh Avenue Wantagh, NY Tel. (516) 221-0871 Fax. (516) 781-0474

Roosevelt Head Start

281 Babylon Turnpike Roosevelt, NY 11575

Tel. (516) 378-5960 (516) 378-5961 Fax. (516) 868-9413

Westbury Head Start

163 Hopper Street Westbury, NY 11590

Tel. (516) 334-3839 Fax. (516) 334-3829

Iris A. Johnson

Brian G. Staley, Sr

SSHS students named to first quarter honor roll

Johnson, Jayden C

King, Anna J

Kirschen, Julian A

Koluch, Katerina Ann

Kourtsounis, Jack T

Kurko, Amaia R

Lane, James W

Livingston, Elizabeth

Lopez, Isabella Janae

Lynch, Michael L

Mankoski, Finnegan R

Marigliano, Owen T

Marmorale, Michael V

Martinez, Nicolas

McCarthy, Liana S

McDaid, Gavin Shea

McGivney, Mia F

McKenna, Clare

McLaughlin, Liam J

McNeill, Madison

McNeill, Makayla

McNulty, Connor J

Meagher, Sullivan T

Mennella, Juliana G

Miller, Braedey L

Moss, Riley P

Mullin, John F

Muscarella, Jack

Muscarella, Jonathan

Naccari, Grady M

Nawrocki, Maeve

O’Comhrai, Cillian

O’Connell, James W

Oswald, Isabel R

O’Toole, Declan B

O’Toole, Kathleen

Panaghi, Eleni M

Papadopulos, Lukas J

Pennisi, Charles M

Pericolosi, John P

Porto, Emma G

Radolovic, Sofie A

Rakeman, James W Reardon, Molly L

Regan, Matthew J Reilly, Genevieve S

Rivera, Alaina S

Rocafort, Charlotte G Rosales, Kayla A

Rose, Brendan J Rose, Travis M Rubin, Elanor Rose

Salas, Nathaniel J

Seidman, Brooke V Sherwood, Donovan W Sonitis, Hari S

Sottovia, Carly B Souto, Madeline R Spellman, Keira M

Suarez, Luca M

Sumrani, Tyler E

Taran, Harper Mae

Tarpey, Lachlan E Testa, Jonah M

Testerman, Charlotte Grace Thangavelu, Grace M

Tobman, Sophie Rose

Tomossonie, Matthew A Toro, BreeAnna D Trenaman, Madeline V Valle, Ervin A Vanco, Nicole L

Vetter, Brendan M Villalta, Andrew C Wikle, Evan D

Wolfensberger, Emma P Wong, Caleb G Woo, Madeline Grace Zukerman, Rory M

10th Grade Honor Roll

Agoglia, Nicholas Allen, Samantha Argueta, Christopher Daniel Arnott, Sean T Arslan, Ella Y Bell, Zaquoya D Boehm, Julia C Burgess, Miquan N Delegianis, Leah G

DeLeon, Keudy Doherty, Delia C Donoghue, Gavin J Farrelly, Joseph C Fernandez, Connor P Ferrens, Malkiel E

Fusco, Joseph M Gonzalez, Daniel G Juarez-Quintanilla, Alexander Kelly, Dermott B

Mata, Aridiana (Ashley) A Moore, Theodore H Pesce, Jenna K

Powers, Maeve M Reeves, Erin C Rothschild, Matthew A Schwartzberg, Nathan H Singh, Justin S Stack, Conor D

Stone, Hailey M

Tortorella, Olivia Grace Camille

Vicioso Calderon, Edwar Angel Walker, Sebastien C Wong, Ariana A

10th Grade High Honor Roll

Abrams, Sydney R

Accomando, Olivia G

Adesso, Ryan D

Agnant, Jayden P

Ally, Alexandre N

Argondizzo, Daniela J Bamgbose, Eniola D. Baum, Michael E

Bednar, George C Bee, Kaitlyn R

Benfante, Michael V

Bernabeu, Scott L

Bohlman, Sophia L

Bondanza, Luke A

Borruso, Ryan M

Brull, Thomas J Burbige, Ella R

Cammalleri, Catherine G

Carbajal Ramirez, Nerlin R

Carrier, William L

Chiffriller, Ryan P

Chimienti, Anna L Clarke, Julia R

Coletti, Addison K

Connolly, Sienna R

Cornell, Emerson Leigh Costaro, Justin L Cox, Abigail Jt

Curnuck, Christian Paul Daitch, Daniel M

Daniel, Victoria E

Dazle, Kane Sierra

Delarosa, Ashleigh

Delegianis, James P

DeLuca, Keira L

Desmond, Natalie R Desmond, Vivian G Drew, Jonah A

Durdaller, Mary Elizabeth

Durrant, Crew H

Dwyer, Zoey E

Erdos, Miles H

Faherty, Thomas F

Fanuzzi, Samantha M

Fisher, Garren R

Fitzpatrick, Brendan J Francois, Lily

Frucchione, Emily A

Fulcher Garcia, Kalaiah F

Gaillard, Jack M

Galindo, Adriana M

Goldspiel, Haidyn S

Guinan, Ty J

Hansman, Taylor G Hassan, Nazneen

Horan, William H

Hosford, Ryan P

Hubler, Sienna R

Iacobellis, Grace N

Ioannou, Marina E

Jewett, Lana Mele

Katsman, Alexandra Kellachan, Annie L

See more from the South Side High School High Honor Roll next week.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notice to Bidders

Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre at the temporary Village Hall location, 34 Maple Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on DECEMBER 22, 2022 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for:

DEFENDER’S

CONCRETE

FIREHOUSE

FLOOR

REPLACEMENT @ 39 SOUTH CENTRE AVENUE

Bid No. 2212CP1(1059)

The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.go . 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 December 15, 2022.

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 135780

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF

Centre, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 274 and Lot 329. Approximate amount of judgment is $342,559.99 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 6202/12. 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.

John K. Moss, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No. 193083-6 135314

LEGAL NOTICE

SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR NRZ PASS-THROUGH TRUST VII, Plaintiff, vs. ALEXIS LIBEROVSKY, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 30, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on December 19, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 29 Seaman 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 Village of Rockville

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS-SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU-AMERICAN ADVISORS GROUP., Plaintiff, -againstTIMOTHY MARTIN FANNON, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET FANNON, DECEASED; ROBERT FANNON JR, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET FANNON, DECEASED, if he be living and if he be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the complaint; MAUREEN EMILIO AKA MAUREEN MCCARTHY FANNON, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET FANNON, DECEASED; DONNA FRICKE AKA DONNA FANNON, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET FANNON, DECEASED; ANY AND ALL KNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF MARGARET FANNON, DECEASED; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10,” said names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff,

intended to be, possible tenants or occupants of the premises, or corporations, persons, or other entities having or claiming a lien upon the mortgaged premises; Defendants - Index No. 600649/2022 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named Defendants-YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated November 1, 2022.

NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME - If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (AMERICAN ADVISORS GROUP) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable David P. Sullivan J.S.C. Dated: November 1, 2022. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 82 Tarence Street, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. Dated: November 10, 2022 Filed: November 15, 2022 Greenspoon Marder LLP., Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Meir Weiss, Esq., 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022 P: (212) 524-5000 F: (212) 524-5050 (No Service by fax) Please respond to Cypress Creek Office: Trade Centre South, 100 W. Cypress

Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982

135691

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 79-2022

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held November 22nd, 2022, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 79-2022, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 79-2022, amending Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations. Dated: November 22, 2022 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 135788

LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO.21527 RESOLUTION NO.1176-2022 Adopted: November 22, 2022

Councilmember Muscarella offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS AND THE REPEAL OF CERTAIN OTHER LOCATIONS, WHICH WERE PREVIOUSLY, SET ASIDE AS PARKING SPACES FOR PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS.

WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No.1160-2022 adopted October 3rd, 2022, a public hearing was duly held on the 22nd day of November, 2022, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and

Larceny

■ On Nov. 29, an employee of MOJO reported the manager of the business stole money from her.

■ On Dec. 4, a Walnut Avenue resident reported that someone had stolen proper ty from his vehicle.

Harassment

■ At approximately 5:24 p.m., on Nov. 29, a Cornwell Street resident reported that someone had pushed her while inside the home.

Narcotics Destruction

■ On Nov. 30, approximately 18 lbs. of pharmaceuticals from the police depart ment’s drug take-back box were trans ferred to Nassau County Police for destruction.

Unusual Incident

■ On Dec. 1, an Old Mill Court resident reported that someone had used her Electronic Benefits card to purchase merchandise.

Property Damage

■ At approximately 3:22 p.m., on Dec. 1, a S. Lewis Place resident reported dam

age was caused to his apartment door by unknown means.

Arrests

■ Timothy Galloway, 31, of N. Long Beach Road in Rockville Centre was arrested on Nov. 28 at 5:15 a.m. He has been charged with second-degree assault, resisting arrest, and third degree menacing during an investigation at his residence.

■ Hector Mayes, 40, of Jackson Street in Hempstead was arrested on Dec. 2 at 1:30 a.m. He has been charged with seconddegree burglary after he illegally entered a home on Atkinson Road and a home on Reeve Road and stole property.

■ Steven Barrere, 31, of Morris Avenue in Rockville Centre was arrested on Dec. 2 and has been charged with seconddegree criminal contempt following an investigation at his residence.

■ Austin Dupuy, 24, of Stowe Street in North Baldwin was arrested on Dec. 4 and has been charged with petit larceny following an investigation on Hempstead Avenue.

■ Cesar Ocasio, 49, of Vincent Street in Rockville Centre was arrested on Dec. 4 and has been charged with seconddegree criminal contempt following an investigation at his residence.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

Public Notices

WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons:

FRANKLIN SQUARE GRANGE STREET - west side, starting at a point

300 feet south of the south curbline of Fenworth Boulevard, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-446/22)

McKINLEY AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 236 feet south of the south curbline of Roosevelt Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-449/22)

ROOSEVELT

EAST PENNYWOOD AVENUE - south side, starting at a point 150 feet east of the east curbline of Nassau Road, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-468/22)

UNIONDALE NEWPORT ROAD - east side, starting at a point 390 feet north of the north curbline of Braxton Street, north for a

distance of 20 feet.

(TH-445/22) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside a parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

ROOSEVELT

EAST PENNYWOOD AVENUE - south side, starting at a point 150 feet east of the east curbline of Nassau Road, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-030/17 - 2/28/17

(TH-468/22)

SOUTH HEMPSTEAD IRENE STREET - north side, starting at a point 148 feet west of the west curbline of Grand Avenue, west for a distance of 33 feet.

(TH-415/88 - 12/20/88) (TH-444/22) ; and, BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once in a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead, and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting.

The foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember D’Esposito and adopted upon roll call as follows: AYES: SIX (6) NOES: NONE (0) 135792

To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

HIRING

EMPLOYMENT

TEACHERS:

OFFICE

RECEPTIONIST

Store

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More complications from Superstorm Sandy

This unique home boasts 2,494 livable interior

Q. We purchased our home with minor damage from Hurricane Sandy, and were told that because there was little or no damage, just mold in the unfin ished basement and new boiler, the house was fine, no title problems. But when we tried getting a permit for a shed, we were told we needed a permit for stormrelated repairs, including proof of our home’s value. We decided not to get the shed because of this, but we got a letter saying we still need the storm repair per mit, regardless. None of the neighbors we spoke to ever got this permit. It seems we’re being punished for being honest and trying to do the right thing. Is there a way around this problem? What if we do nothing?

A. My answer may be as confusing as your situ ation. I have seen no con sistency in this dilemma as I go from one munici pality to another, and I’ve asked why some impacted jurisdictions don’t require as much paperwork and scrutinizing as others. The answer from officials was generally that each jurisdiction made assess ments of the specific properties, and then recorded which ones were uninhabitable compared to which ones had various levels of needed repairs.

It may have been that at the time, when people were so devastated by their personal property loss es, it seemed like a bad policy to hurt homeowners further with permit requirements and lots of administrative paperwork. The concerns for peo ple’s emotions at that time have, seemingly, dimin ished. Your jurisdiction chose to notify people to submit estimates and property value statements, over a decade later, mostly when they apply for per mits for unrelated projects.

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I sat down to a Sunday-morning breakfast chat in a diner with the top elected official in your juris diction in February of 2013, four months after the storm, as a concerned citizen as well as a licensed professional and columnist. It was nice that they paid for breakfast, but I’m not sure they acknowl edged the level of problems I was seeing, from the lack of communication and enforcement with the public. I suggested that it was better to notify every one with specifics, not randomly ambush people when they applied for other things in the future, like you’re now experiencing.

I advised that everyone damaged by the storm could file basic repair letters, be contacted by block and lot numbers instead of all at once, and put the effects of the storm behind us all as quickly and painlessly as possible, but in a way that officially recorded people’s repairs in letter form and in a simple way. Building departments were extremely helpful in assisting people to get backup docu ments, and I saw an earnest effort to help the pub lic. But many homeowners ignored letters, did nothing and seem not to be affected by require ments.

Your story is an example of the result I predict ed. I wish I knew the answer. It may take another decade to figure this out. Good luck!

© 2022 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.

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Facing life — and death — with peace and love

John Casciani died last weekend. You don’t know him, but trust me, he wouldn’t want anyone to fuss over him. He came into this world quietly 88 years ago, and I’m sure would prefer the same exit now.

But you can’t have such a profound effect on someone’s life — to the point that you almost single-handedly changed it for the better — and expect them to experience your passing as an afterthought.

Casciani doesn’t deserve to be remem bered, but because I simply don’t know how to express my sadness that someone who touched and transformed so many lives as a teacher over the years no longer shares the same plane of existence we do.

with “peace and love” — something you always felt around him. Peace and love.

I can usually write a column like this practically in my sleep, but nothing seemed right to honor this man who did so much for everyone, yet didn’t want anyone to notice.

So, that’s what I did. I cried. Tears of sadness. Tears of happy memories. Tears of who I am. Tears of what I might have been if it weren’t for Mr. Casciani.

MICHAEL HINMAN

Writing isn’t just a profession for me. It’s how I cope. And the moment I learned of Mr. Casciani’s passing, I put pen to paper, sharing an anecdote from the very first time I met this fascinating chemistry teacher and photography club adviser from my high school days, and how he introduced me to the magical world of the darkroom.

I talked about the value of teachers, who are key to our self-discovery of who we are. I even shared Mr. Casciani’s way of making even the most mundane interest ing, like when he would wager his chemis try classes he could drink a glass of boiling water — and then actually do it.

But the moment I typed the final words of that piece, I closed the document and then dumped it in the trash. Not that Mr.

I was going through a bad time when I first met Mr. Casciani. We all remember being teenagers, and few of us can say it was easy. But Mr. Casciani truly changed my life. Not just teaching me the skills that helped me land my first newspaper job — the fact that I could devel op my own film and print my own pictures helped get me through the door of a daily newspaper when I was still in high school — but being someone who taught me it was OK to be fascinated by the world around us. That we shouldn’t be ashamed of that sense of wonder.

Yet I simply couldn’t find the words to express any of that. Outside of a few Face book interactions, I hadn’t had a direct conversation with Mr. Casciani since I graduated from high school in the early 1990s. But he would occasionally send me a note, usually asking me to help him remember some details about projects we worked on — like our school’s television program in the days when creating televi sion at the high school level wasn’t so easy to pull off — so he could reminisce.

He would sign each of those messages

But then I remembered something else Mr. Casciani taught me. Strength doesn’t come from not needing to ask for help — it comes from seeking help when you need it. Something pride inter feres with all too often.

So, I sought that strength inside of me and asked for help. Marcie Schellhammer is the assistant managing editor of the Bradford Era in north-central Pennsylvania, about 30 miles from where I grew up. She’s written so many beautiful columns about people that I cite her work to my own reporters when we need examples of the best way to honor people with our words.

I did everything I was supposed to do. I shared a favorite memory, and how what I learned from it changed my life. I shared the moment my eyes opened, and even talked about how Mr. Casciani helped mold me into the man I am now. But it still wasn’t working.

“That’s because you wrote it to write a column,” Marcie told me. “You didn’t write it with your heart. At least that’s my pro cess. I can’t write a memorial column with out crying.”

As always, Marcie was right. And the more I thought about it, the more I realized I couldn’t take the traditional approach in honoring Mr. Casciani. I can scream from the hilltops how important our educators are — and they indeed are. But the truest way to honor a man like Mr. Casciani is to put what he taught me into practice.

To admit when I’m struggling. To face it. To seek out help. And to never, ever be ashamed of it. I joke from time to time that Mr. Casciani would tell me the skills I was learning in the darkroom would be skills that would help me the rest of my life. And then, in my mid-20s, darkrooms went extinct in the shadow of digital pho tography.

But that has changed my life. I haven’t stepped inside a darkroom in about two decades, but the skills I learned there opened the doors at the beginning of my career that allowed me to sit here and write these words today. And for that, I will be forever grateful to Mr. Casciani.

We all have a Mr. Casciani in our lives. And we can never thank them enough for making the impact they did. So, if you can still thank them, please take a moment and do it now.

Peace and love.

Michael Hinman is executive editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Com ments? Execeditor@liherald.com.

No, Gwyneth, I will not buy your face cream

In this season of marathon shopping, I started wondering why I buy what I buy. There are millions of choices when it comes to our cosmetics and cars and food and OTC meds and clothing and shoes and TV series and movies and furnishings and technology, and travel and education.

So why do I scan the shelves and pick out one sneaker among the many sports shoes for sale?

celebrity flogs a product, my avoidance mode kicks in. I love Matthew McCo naughey, but I’m not buying a Lincoln because he looks dreamy sitting behind the wheel in the TV commercials. I am not buy ing Gwyneth Paltrow’s skin cream thinking it will make me look like her.

I mean, why would I buy a Dior product because Charl ize Theron is their public face? She’s a gorgeous 8-foottall South African beauty. My life, inside this body of mine, bears no resemblance to her existence. Dior face cream will not help. I resist.

does she know about shoes or me or the value of her product? As for the Kardashi ans, well, how much time do you have? Who are they, exactly, and how many of them are in the public eye, and what is their skill set? They endorse various hair products, and I imagine their pitch is to young people, but why? They are the most famous people who are famous just for being famous.

ing crosses, and stigmata. After an outcry from religious groups, Pepsi canceled its ad.

My friends are my greatest influencers. I buy what they tell me to buy; I watch the TV that they suggest; I read the books they send my way.

I also take seriously consumer reviews from reliable websites. I have found new doctors by reading online reviews.

We think we have the power of choice, but we are bedazzled by influ encers. Psycholo gists say that we are especially moti vated by celebrity endorsements that suggest we can acquire good looks, wealth, friends and celebrity itself by buying the car that George Clooney drives or wearing the ath letic shoes that Selena Gomez wears or drinking the Coke that LeBron James, Penelope Cruz or Michelle Kwan drinks.

RANDI KREISS

I’m crazy about Reese Witherspoon and I love Crate & Barrel products, but I’m not buying a new couch because she’s their “brand ambassador.”

Various media put enormous money into advertising campaigns that feature celebrities touting their products. For me, it’s a waste of their time and money. When a

I can’t argue that celebrity endorsements don’t work, because apparently they pay off big time, or companies wouldn’t seek out famous people to push their products. I just don’t think it works for me, and I would urge others to look at their prospective pur chases in a clear-eyed way, setting aside the celebrity glam factor.

Drew Barrymore has associated herself with Crocs. What the heck? Should I buy a clutzy shoe because she tells me to? What

Epic flops and scandals have haunted the celebrity endorsement industry. Kanye West recently unraveled with his nonstop antisemitic rants. He lost Adidas, Balen ciaga, Foot Locker, Gap, and others. Michael Phelps was dropped by Kellogg’s years ago, after a photo circulated of him smoking marijuana. Today, with a net worth of some $80 million, he can boast associations with Intel, Sub way, Under Armor, Beats and Visa. The weed factor is passe.

Years back, according to E-News, Madon na landed a one-year contract as the celebri ty spokesperson for Pepsi. A two-minute family-friendly ad premiered wherein the singer revisited her eighth birthday. But the next day, Madonna’s video for “Like a Prayer” debuted. The video featured burn

I have one friend whom I love who has mysterious powers over my purchasing decisions. When we’re together, we some times shop. I find myself buying what she tells me to buy — even the outsized blouse with a geometric print that makes my eyes burn. Sometimes there’s a pricey item I don’t need, but if she tells me I need it, boom, it’s in the shopping bag. I don’t know what it is. My only defense is not to go shop ping with her too often. Because if she tells me I need the striped balloon pants in neon green, it’s circus time for me.

As we go about our Christmas and Hanukkah shopping, it might be wise to consider who is influencing our purchases. One of the oldest and longest-running celeb rity endorsements was launched by Jell-O in the early 1970s, when they hired a 37-yearold actor named Bill Cosby. Presumably JellO has wiggled onward without him.

Copyright 2022 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

I can’t argue that celebrity endorsements don’t work. Apparently they pay off big time.

W e all have a Mr. Casciani in our lives, and we can never thank them enough.

Roosevelt’s address to the nation, Dec. 8, 1941

Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speak er, members of the Senate, and of the House of Repre sentatives:

Yesterday, Dec. 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliber ately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation, and at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor, looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.

Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in the American island of Oahu, the Japa nese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our secre tary of state a formal reply to a recent American message. And while this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or of armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese gov

ernment has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false state ments and expressions of hope for con tinued peace.

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. I regret to tell you that very many Ameri can lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported tor pedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.

Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine islands.

Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.

And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area.

The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the impli

cations to the very life and safety of our nation.

As commander-in-chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all mea sures be taken for our defense. But always, will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us?

No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute vic tory.

I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend our selves to the uttermost, but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces, with the unbounding determination of our people, we will gain the inevitable triumph, so help us God.

I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.

letters

Taking the air out of balloon releases

To the Editor: Thank you to Senior Reporter Jordan Vallone for her well-written piece, “Balloon Mission is up and away: Planning initial projects, nonprofit sets tone for future” (Bell more and Merrick Heralds, Dec. 1-7, liherald.com/merrick/stories/bal loon-mission-is-up-and-away, 152602). And bravo to Cynthia Sei bold, of North Merrick, for using the pandemic to start a nonprofit group, Balloon Mission, committed to stopping the inane practice of releasing balloons into the environ ment as a form of celebration.

Balloons are made of rubber, latex or nylon fabric, which does not break down easily — a polyure thane balloon can take up to 450 years to decompose, according to the University of Melbourne. In the wild, balloons get caught in trees and underbrush, where they are shredded by branches. Over time, they appear to disintegrate, but what is really happening is the bal loons are further breaking down

into microplastics, which then become ingrained in soil and water systems. From there, they are ingest ed by animals and marine creatures — and then by we humans at the top of the food chain.

In 2019, the Town of Southampton passed a law

banning the intentional release of balloons — with a fine of $350 or imprisonment for up to 15 days for a first offense. Subsequent offenses would receive harsher penalties. The Town of Hempstead has a similar ordinance on the books, also passed in 2019,

opinions

The red wave that wasn’t, and the crime wave that isn’t

Despite expectations, Republi cans ended up underperform ing on Nov. 8. Although Republi cans narrowly captured the House, Democrats kept the Senate and even managed to flip multiple state cham bers blue, including capturing the gover nor’s office in Arizona, of all places.

ing on the good people of Nassau County. For their part, the Democrats, as usual, were yet again unable to show a spine and attack the Republican narrative. But at any rate, it seems the Republican assault on our collective psyche was successful.

your chances of being a victim of grand larceny are? About 0.002 percent.

So what can we do?

aDaricHev

Peculiarly, however, Republicans had one of their best nights in none other than the deep-blue Demo cratic stronghold of New York. They flipped a stagger ing one-fifth of all Democratic con gressional seats here, and nearly unseated Demo cratic Gov. Kathy Hochul.

How did they pull it off? Fear of crime. While in most of the nation, inflation and preserving democracy were the top two issues, poll ing from New York City in May showed that the No. 1 issue on people’s minds was crime — and it wasn’t even close.

Leading up to the election, the Republi cans unleashed a barrage of fear-monger

Letters

There’s just one problem. There’s no actual crime wave.

It’s completely normal to be worried about crime; we all deserve to be safe in our neighborhoods. But the facts just don’t bear it out. Did you know that the num bers of murders, rapes and sexual crimes have all gone down this year compared with last, according to offi cial Nassau County Police Department data? Surpris ing, I know. And all things considered, we’re actually in one of the safest periods ever in our county.

There have been increases in crime, but they’ve been related to property, not violent crimes. And even with the increase in property crimes, it is still exceedingly rare for a Nassau resident to be a victim of such a crime. The most common crime defined as “major” this year was grand larceny. You know what

But I can definitely understand the claim that we all feel an air of crime here in Nassau. Blame the media: 2022 saw a spike in the media coverage of shootings in New York City that went far beyond the actual num ber of shootings.

It sickens me. You turn the page, a shooting. Anoth er page, a corpse. The third page, a guy arrested for beating his girlfriend. The media fills us with dread, all to make money. And I see how my neighbors increas ingly construct their own fortresses, replete with video cameras, dogs and floodlights, all out of fear of passersby.

This fear has serious consequences, increasing anxiety, social withdrawal, and unraveling the social fabric of neighbor hoods. This is no way to live.

At the same time, I don’t want to live in a county where we see an increasing number of desperate people turning to theft to survive. After all, if you can’t work, you go hungry, and stealing catalyt ic converters beats going hungry.

Let’s start with a price cap on gas in Nassau County, to fight inflation and bring relief to millions at the pump. Next, the county should put people to work at a good wage to finally fix these damn pot holes. And thirdly, let’s keep kids off the streets by fully funding schools, and lower violent crime by having Nassau replace our lead pipes, which contribute to lead poisoning, which researchers have tied to aggressive and impulsive behavior.

Too bad the Republican-led County Legislature won’t do any of that. In fact, when adjusted for inflation, Nassau’s 2023 budget actually has less funding for spe cial education and early-intervention pro grams. Nothing about lead pipes, or gas price caps. Don’t the Republicans care about preventing crime?

It’s OK to have a healthy fear of crime, and it’s OK to take measures to keep your self safe. But I implore my friends: Don’t let politicians and the media manipulate you. It is imperative that we do not fear our neighbor.

Matthew Adarichev is a public policy major at Hofstra University, a political activist and an aspiring journalist whose work has appeared in the Hofstra Chroni cle and the Anton Media Group.

Framework by Tim Baker

but the fine for intentional release cannot exceed $100, and there is no provision for jail time. I would like to see Hempstead pass an ordinance with stronger teeth.

As a town resident, though, I am heartened to see Hempstead working with Balloon Mission to educate the public about the myriad dangers that balloon releases present — particularly to the 17,000 acres and 180 miles of coastal waterways under the town’s jurisdiction.

Finally, each of us can play our part in helping to reduce plastics in the environment. When you see a plas tic bottle or rubber balloon on the street in your neigh borhood, pick it up and throw it away. I’m a runner. When you run and collect garbage, it’s called plogging, a Swedish fitness term. Hempstead would do well, though, to add more trash cans for recyclables at its parks, like those at the Levy Preserve in Merrick. This way, when folks are out collecting garbage, they could easily recycle plastic bottles and aluminum cans.

SCOTT A. BRINTON Merrick

Randi nailed it on air travel

To the Editor:

I really love Randi Kreiss’s columns in the Herald, and the one that I specifically liked was “Flying the notso-friendly skies” (Nov. 24-30), about JetBlue and the way they’ve changed their system so that they don’t really accommodate people very well.

I went on a trip about three weeks ago, and it was really hard to book a flight because I had a couple of problems, and, like you said, to reach somebody, it’s like reaching God. And yes, the snacks are pretty sad.

Thank you so much for your articles, Randi.

JuDITH WEITz Long Beach

Here’s hoping they’re bundled up out there — Sea Cliff Yacht Club

the numbers of major crimes in Nassau County have actually gone down this year.

mattHew