Seaford Herald 04-11-2024

The wonders of a solar eclipse

Abiyal trying to keep her glasses on to look at the solar eclipse at a viewing event at the Levittown Public Library on Monday. While Long Island wasn’t in the path of totality, the sky dimmed, the weather cooled and scores of thousands were fascinated.

A powerful paper on a patriotic tune

Wantagh student is state winner of DAR essay contest

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Wantagh Middle School student Kate Stivali imagined herself as a journalist during an iconic moment in American history, and in doing so became the seventh-grade New York state winner of a patriotic essay contest.

For this year’s Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest, participants were tasked with writing from the point of view of a reporter on the day American composer John Philip Sousa first performed “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” the rousing patriotic march he

wrote in 1896. The contest was part of the women’s service organization’s mission of promoting historic preservation and honoring the patriots of the Revolutionary War.

Kate learned of her win at a luncheon at Wantagh Public Library on March 13, when the DAR’s Jerusalem Chapter announced the chapter’s winners in the contest, for fifth through twelfth grades, as well as Kate’s special recognition. She said her reaction amused teachers and district faculty at the event, because her mouth agape in complete surprise.

“I was shocked,” Kate recalled. “Everyone laughed at my reaction, so I think it was pretty

Continued on page 9

Pizza pies for a family in need

Pizzerias gear up for fundraiser for slain officer Diller’s wife and son

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

To help raise money for the family of fallen NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, the Long Island community is doing what it does best — make pizza.

WPizzerias across Long Island are participating in an April 17 fundraiser to benefit the family of Diller, a Massapequa Park resident and Franklin Square native who was killed in the line of duty. He leaves behind a wife, Stephanie, and a 1-year-old son, Ryan. For every pizza pie sold at participating restaurants, $5 will be donated to support the slain officer’s family, as well as organizations that benefit law enforcement, such as Beyond the Badge NY, Project Thank-A-Cop and the Silver Shield Foundation.

hosted its own fundraiser, donating 15 percent of last week’s earnings to the Diller family. Lombardo said the pizzeria is excited to participate and help out any way it can.

e’re just trying to get as much participation as we can, so we can really give as much as we can to the family.

AlExANdRA

G ARdNER Manager, Uncle Frank’s Pizza and Cocktails in Wantagh

Anthony Lombardo, owner of Lombardo’s of Seaford Pizzeria, said his restaurant is participating in the event, and

“My heart broke for his wife and kids,” Lombardo said. “I have two brothersin-law in law enforcement in Nassau County, so it hit home a little bit. It’s a sad thing.” Diller, 31, was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway on March 25. The suspected gunman, Guy Rivera, 34, was a passenger in a car driven by Lindy Jones, 41, who refused to roll down the car’s windows during the stop. Jones, according to police, was arrested and charged with criminal possession of a gun after another firearm was found in the car. Police said Rivera, who was charged with first-degree murder, as well as attempted murder for trying to fire his gun at an Continued on page 5

Rachel Bamgbose/Herald

Pizzerias plan fundraiser for Diller family

NYPD sergeant on scene during the altercation, had at least 21 prior arrests, according to police officials.

Long Island Pizza Strong, which raises money to aid the community during a time of need, is organizing the April 17 event. The organization’s co-founder, Anthony Laurino, who is also owner of Phil’s Pizzeria & Restaurant in Syosset, announced on April 1 the fundraiser for Diller’s family. As of press time, more than 200 restaurants have signed up to participate, and Laurino said the list keeps growing.

“I don’t see any reason why every pizzeria wouldn’t want to do this,” Laurino said.

Laurino co-founded the pizza fundraiser with Alyssa Guidice, of LI Dine, and Jim Serpico, owner of Side Hustle Bread, last year to help the families of the victims of the Farmingdale High School marching band bus crash in September, which resulted in the deaths of 43-year-old band director Gina Pellettiere and 77-year-old retired social studies teacher Beatrice Ferarri.

As a member of the Farmingdale community, Laurino was deeply touched by the tragedy. His son was aboard one of the buses that was heading to band camp in Pennsylvania, but not the one that crashed. On the night of the bus crash, Laurino spoke with Guidice and Serpico, and Long Island Pizza Strong

was founded.

“We took off like a bandit,” Laurino said. “We had 140 places involved, and we raised $102,200 for most of the people that were affected by it.”

Laurino said costumers have been supportive of the fundraiser for Diller’s family, and participating pizzerias are excited to raise money. Uncle Frank’s Pizza and Cocktails in Wantagh is one of the participating pizzerias, and manager Alexandra Gardner said her employees have been touched by Officer Diller’s story and want to show their support.

“A lot of our staff have family in law enforcement, and it’s an area that has a lot of cop families, so we all have ties to that,” Gardner said. “We definitely wanted to help out in any way that we can, show our support, and be there for the people in our community.”

Gardner said she grew up in Massapequa Park, where Diller lived, and the restaurant has hosted Christmas parties for Seventh Precinct police officers in Seaford.

“We’re just trying to get as much participation as we can, so we can really give as much as we can to the family,” Gardner said.

A member of the NYPD for three years, Diller had earned several honors, and was described by fellow officers at the 105th Precinct, where he worked, as a “cop’s cop.” He was posthumously pro-

story, and numerous organizations have shown their support through generous donations. The New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund, also known as Answer the Call, plans to give $50,000 to Diller’s widow and son, as well as a $10,000 annual stipend. Achiezer, a community resource center based in Lawrence and Far Rockaway, and the Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula, have raised more than $16,000 to help Diller’s family.

Laurino said he hopes to organize more fundraisers with Long Island Pizza Strong and is looking forward to a huge turnout for Diller’s family.

“Hopefully, we get a half a million dollars, why not?” Laurino said of the April 17 fundraiser. “You can’t put an amount of money on the loss of somebody’s life.”

moted to detective first grade, which was announced by NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban at his funeral, held at St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church in Massapequa on March 30.

Diller’s death became a national

As of press time, Wantagh restaurants that are participating include Francesca’s Pizza, Uncle Frank’s Pizza and Cocktails, Bel Posto, Umbertos of Wantagh and Phil’s Pizza of Wantagh. In Seaford, those signed up to participate include Charred Brick Oven, Lombardo’s of Seaford, Mario’s of Seaford, Rosario’s Pizzeria and Gino’s of Seaford.

For more information, visit lipizzastrong.com.

Additional reporting by Nicole Wagner

Courtesy NYPD Long island pizzerias are hosting a fundraiser on april 17 for the family of nYpd officer Jonathan diller, a franklin Square native who was shot and killed during a traffic stop in far rockaway on march 25.

HERALD SchoolS

Middle School actors to teach the circle of life

Three decades after the animated film debuted, Seaford Middle School’s Drama Club will perform “The Lion King” for its annual musical production. There will be evening shows on April 12 and 13.

Nearly 80 sixth, seventh and eighth graders are involved in this year’s production including a cast of 53 young actors and a crew of more than two dozen. Lead cast members include Max Dimola as Simba, Christopher Falta as Young Simba, Brandon Bombardier as Mufasa, Madison Spinella as Rafiki, Michael Redash as Timon, Roran Cassidy as Pumba, Henry Brock as Scar, Lily Boyon as Nala, Gia Lennon as Young Nala, Kaitlyn Strong as Sarabi and Mark Simonson as Zazu. A large ensemble plays the parts of lionesses, hyenas, gazelles, grass and stars.

Barbara Sherwin, the show’s director, choreographer and producer, said that “The Lion King” has a very positive message in showing that all life has a purpose in the world. She said this is the first time the Disney classic has been performed at the school.

“The music is very powerful,” she said. “With all of the costumes, it’s going to bring us as close to Broadway as we can possibly get here at Seaford Middle School.”

Audience members will recognize familiar songs such as “The Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata” in the two-act play. Students have been rehearsing the music and choreography for several months.

“It’s the best show we’ll ever do,” said Brandon, an eighth grader, who is in his third and final performance at the school. “The whole show is going to be awesome. Everyone is trying their best and giving it

their all.”

Sherwin is supported by music director Nick Coacci, set designer and stage manager Matt Dolan, assistant stage manager Dan Krueger, production volunteers Amanda Ferguson and Carly Spadafora, and student choreographer Dylan Wong.

“The students are working really well together,” Sherwin said. “They’re a very strong ensemble vocally and we have a lot of really strong actors. I’m really impressed with how well they’ve learned the music because it’s very intricate.”

Show times are Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 at 7 p.m. in the Seaford Middle School gymnasium. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, and are available at the door.

The ensemble rehearses a musical number for the upcoming show.

Photos courtesy Seaford School District

Christopher Falta, left, and Max Dimola are cast as Simba and Young Simba, respectively.

Lead actors from ‘The Lion King’ are getting ready for performances on April 12 and 13 at Seaford Middle School.

Madison Spinella, as Rafiki, practices the opening song.

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Police, Fire Departments respond to fatal house fire in Wantagh

A fatal house fire occurred on Stanford Court in Wantagh on Saturday, according to police.

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The Young Family Estate Plan (YFEP)

Parents of young children often overlook the need to plan for death or disability. Many believe they don’t have enough assets yet or that anything they have will automatically go to their spouse. However, every young parent needs basic documents – a Will, Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy – what we term a “Young Family Estate Plan” (YFEP), that formalize their wishes in a variety of unexpected circumstances.

Without a YFEP, if one spouse dies, any assets that were in the husband’s or wife’s name alone will be subject to a court proceeding to name an “administrator” of the estate and New York law decides who gets which assets. The first $50,000 goes to the surviving spouse and the rest is divided 50% to the spouse and 50% to the children. The court will appoint a legal guardian to manage the money for them and then, ready or not, any remaining funds would be turned over to them at age 18.

If your spouse becomes disabled, and you don’t have a Power of Attorney for them, you must petition the court to be appointed as your spouse’s legal guardian to handle their affairs (such as selling or refinancing the house or drawing funds from their accounts). The court may decide against you as legal guardian and appoint someone else.

A YFEP also includes life insurance reviews and recommendations, so in the event your spouse dies you will have the financial resources to raise your children.

A YFEP (1) ensures that all of your spouse’s assets go to you and not half to your children if your spouse dies unexpectedly, (2) allows you to choose the legal guardian for your children, and at what age they will receive the unused assets, (3) avoids guardianship proceedings should your spouse have a disabling accident or illness, and (4) provides the financial wherewithal so that your children may continue to prosper and thrive.

At around 8 p.m. on April 6, officers responded to a 911 call for a house fire located at 1 Stanford Court. Police arrived to thefire, and fire departments from Wantagh, Seaford, Bethpage and North Bellmore responded to

extinguish the blaze.

A woman was removed from the residence and transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead at around 9:12 p.m. by hospital staff.

Detectives and fire marshals were on the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

Crime watCh

auto LarCeny

In Merrick, a victim reported an unknown subjects removing the catalytic converter from their vehicle while parked at the Enterprise Rent-A-Car on Merrick Road on March 30.

In Bellmore, an unknown subject removed a MTA CB Radio from a victim’s vehicle while parked at the LIRR station on Sunrise Highway on April 2.

Petit LarCeny

An individual was arrested for shoplifting at the Target on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on March 28.

An individual was arrested for shop-

lifting at the Target on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on March 29.

An individual was arrested for shoplifting at the Target on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on April 4.

An individual was arrested for shoplifting at Home Depot on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on April 2.

CriminaL misChief to auto

A Seaford victim reported that an unknown male subject damaged the passenger side mirror of his vehicle while parked at 2905 Shore Road on March 28.

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.

Stivali reflects on being state essay winner

shocking.”

Among those in attendance were her social studies teacher, David Cippoletti, and the Wantagh school district’s director of Humanities, Julie Rosslee, both of whom said they were impressed with Kate’s essay.

Iwas shocked. Everyone laughed at my reaction, so I think it was pretty shocking.

“I was very excited,” Cippoletti said. “I was not surprised, because she’s an excellent student and an even better person.”

Kate StIvalI Wantagh Middle School seventh-grader

Cippoletti turned the essay contest into an extra-credit assignment for his students last fall. Kate said she was interested in taking part, and her mother encouraged her, saying she was a good writer. The essay, according to Kate, took around five hours to write and edit.

“I wrote about how he inspired Americans with his march, and how he accomplished great things with his music,” she said of Sousa, “and how he touched America’s hearts.”

Kate read her essay aloud at the DAR

piece at the Philadelphia Academy of Music. In 1987 it was designated the national march of the United States.

“I liked how he expressed the music for America,” Kate said. “It was really meaningful. I listened to it before I researched, and I wasn’t expecting how good it would be, because it was really good.”

For her state win in the contest, she received a certificate, a $150 check, a silver medal and a patriotic coloring book. She is no stranger to winning essay contests: She won first place in the middle school’s Memorial Day essay contest last year for sixth grade students, where the topic was the meaning of the holiday.

Kate said that writing is an enjoyable hobby for her, giving her the chance to jot down her thoughts and write poems and song lyrics. She added that more students should take part in essay contests.

“I think you should try, even if it’s hard,” she said. “You should persevere.”

luncheon, and Rosslee said she was struck by how much research Kate did.

“The facts that were in there and the quotes that were in there, she didn’t just make them up,” Rosslee said. “They were all accurate.”

Cippoletti was impressed with Kate’s use of quotes, and her delivery when she read the essay, saying she “commanded the room.”

“I was surprised by the speech that she gave, because she was wise beyond her years with it,” Cippoletti said. “So that was the only thing I was surprised at.”

Kate explained that Sousa was inspired to write the march after hearing of the death of his manager and friend, David Blakely, in 1896. On May 14 of the following year, Sousa debuted the

Cippoletti says he assigns the essay contest to help students develop their writing skills, and was impressed with the maturity of Kate’s essay.

“It really is a feather in her cap,” he said. “She gave it to me, I read it over, and I was like, ‘Yeah, this is awesome.’ So, it was 100 percent her, and I think that is amazing for a seventh-grader to do that.”

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Charles Shaw/Herald Wantagh middle School principal anthony Ciuffo, left, with the district’s director of Humanities Julie rosslee, Kate Stivali, social studies teacher david Cippoletti and assistant principal rachel Quattrocchi. Kate, a student at Wantagh middle School, was recently announced as a state winner of a seventh-grade essay contest hosted by the daughters of the american revolution.

Will armed civilian deputies help county?

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

Nearly 100 people stood on the steps of the Nassau County legislature building in Mineola on Monday afternoon, clutching signs reading, “Blakeman is a liar! Armed militants are not the answer” and “Eclipse Blakeman’s militia”’ while chanting “no militia, no way.”

The protest came on the heels of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman jumpstarting a program allowing civilians with gun permits — especially retired law enforcement or military veterans — to step forward as provisional special deputy sheriffs during times of crisis.

The program, Blakeman said, aims to bolster emergency response capabilities within the county. Applicants are required to be U.S. citizens between 21 and 72 who live in the county, and possess a pistol license. Additionally, they must consent to thorough background checks, random drug testing, and provide medical certification of fitness for duty.

The position offers a daily stipend of $150 when activated during declared emergencies, but these special deputies would have no other policing authority outside of such circumstances.

Laura Burns, a Rockville Centre resident and volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, opposes Blakeman’s program, citing concerns about escalating gun violence and the lack of necessity for additional firearms in Nassau County, which boasts one of the lowest gun death rates in the country.

She expresses trust in the well-trained Nassau County Police Department, and questions the rationale behind distrusting existing law enforcement agencies.

“We are trying to keep guns out of the hands of people who shouldn’t have guns,” Burns said. “We understand that gun violence increases with the more people who are carrying guns. We think it’s a reckless idea to put more guns in the hands of more untrained people on the streets.”

Allison Dzikowski of Bellmore suggests that existing county police training is more reliable than expecting civilians to effectively respond to heightened stressful situations.

“We should trust our police department to do their jobs that they’re trained for,” she said. “They go through training. They go through (the) academy. They are trained to deal with highly stressful situations. That’s not something that we can guarantee that they’ll be able to act under a heightened, stressful situation.”

Citing New York State County Law 655 — which grants sheriffs the authority to deputize additional personnel for emergency situations — Blakeman justifies the initiative to safeguard life and property during crises. Special deputy sheriffs, while not typically responding to 911 calls, assume full police authority when activated, and are tasked with executing warrants, serving court orders, and conducting other law enforcement duties.

Talking to reporters last week at the county’s Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center, Blakeman said he would require these special deputies to have a firearms license and undergo background and mental health checks. The county will provide basic police training.

Blakeman added he will call up these deputies in only the most extreme situation, like a natural disaster — with the mission being not to police, but to guard hospitals and other infrastructure to free up sworn county police officers.

“I didn’t want to find myself in a circumstance where we’d have an emergency in a very significant event like Superstorm Sandy, and scramble to get volunteers,” Blakeman said. “All we’re doing here is pretraining, and vetting those individuals, and creating a database and a list.”

However, the rollout of this program has sparked controversy, with county legislators like Delia DeRiggi-Whitton expressing reservations, claiming she and other officials were not adequately informed of the initiative. The Democrat also says she feels confident the Nassau County Police Department can handle any job — and if they can’t, then Blakeman should hire more police officers.

“He hasn’t been transparent,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “He never told us if there was going to be any training. In fact, that was never part of the ad, which was the first we heard of this.”

This is something the county executive should have brought to local lawmakers, she said.

“The county would be on the hook for anything that goes wrong,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “We will be responsible financially. So, you know, that could be a lot of money, and then it’s taxpayer money that would pay for anything that went wrong with the deputy.”

Citing an email she said she received from a Jewish resident in Massapequa, DeRiggi-Whitton comparing

Blakeman’s call for special deputies to the paramilitary wing of the early Nazi Party, the lawmaker told another news outlet that the proposal is creating “a lot of anxiety.”

“It reminds them not only of the Wild West, but of times in Europe with uncertainty,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “There was something called the Brownshirts, which was basically having civilians suddenly become part of law enforcement without the training.”

More formally called the Sturmabteilung, this group was founded in 1921 and led attacks against Jewish people and other minority groups and businesses in Germany.

Making such a comparison outraged Blakeman, who called on DeRiggi-Whitton to resign, citing the 100 people who have applied for the deputy program so far are veterans and first responders who already have training in weapon use.

“Equating these men and women who would be willing to devote their time to protecting our county — who have prior experience in law enforcement and the military — we’re calling them ‘Brownshirts,’” Blakeman said. “This is not only a personal insult to me, as a Jew, but it is a personal insult on humanity, and to those men and women, civic minded individuals who stepped up and said they would serve in an emergency.”

Supporters of the program — like Jeff Weissman, a former FBI agent — said he found DeRiggi-Whitton’s comparison “deeply disturbing.”

“The county executive, from the point of view of those of us who live here, is trying every day to provide the maximum extent of protection for our citizens.” Weissman said. “He’s allowing the police to be freed up in, God forbid, a county emergency where these deputies would be able to perform other tasks for them.”

DeRiggi-Whitton said she would not resign. In a phone call to the Herald, she expressed concern with transparency over training deputies, and said Democrats in the legislature proposed hiring 100 new police officers instead — but that Republicans voted that down.

“I still have a fundamental problem with this county executive being able to declare an emergency and then summon these people to go wherever he wants,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “It’s not a good fit and not a good direction for where we should be with Nassau County.”

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Laura Burns, a volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, says Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s initiative to deputize civilians would put more guns on the county’s streets, potentially increasing crime rates. Blakeman maintains the plan would free up police resources in emergencies by putting more trained personnel in action.

Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton opposes County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s plans to deputize civilians for emergencies — saying the existing police force is more than enough to handle such situations.

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SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

HAILEY TRAPANI

MacArthur Junior Softball

AN ALL-STATE SELECTION last spring, Trapani helped lead the Generals to the Nassau Class A championship. As a sophomore and No. 2 hitter in the lineup, she batted .440 (44-for100) with 5 homers, 24 RBIs and 44 runs scored. She also had 11 doubles and stole 3 bases and served as MacArthur’s starting right fielder. She’s in her third varsity campaign after handling the team’s designated hitter duties in 2022 and finishing with a .292 avg.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, April 11

Baseball: Hewlett at Kennedy 4:30 p.m.

Baseball: Freeport at Oceanside 4:30 p.m.

Baseball: Mepham at Long Beach 5 p.m.

Baseball: Wantagh at Lynbrook 5 p.m.

Baseball: Uniondale at V.S. South 5 p.m.

Softball: Seaford at Wantagh 5 p.m.

Softball: Oceanside at MacArthur 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: South Side at North Shore 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Garden City at Long Beach 7 p.m.

Friday, April 12

Girls Lacrosse: Freeport at Hewlett 5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: East Meadow at Oceanside 5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Clarke at Lawrence 5 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Lynbrook at Wantagh 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Sewanhaka at Clarke 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 13

Softball: Kennedy at Calhoun 10 a.m.

Softball: V.S. Central at Malverne 10 a.m.

Softball: Long Beach at Carey 10 a.m.

Softball: Lynbrook at Baldwin 10 a.m.

Girls Flag Football: Valley Stream at Freeport 11 a.m.

Girls Lacrosse: South Side at Manhasset 12 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information:

Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

MacArthur works to defend crown

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Fresh off the MacArthur softball program’s first county title since 2017, the Generals are seeking a repeat of that championship feeling with a different style of team.

The 2023 MacArthur team that entered the Class A finals unbeaten before knocking off Clarke in a three game series was led largely by All State pitcher Taylor Brunn, who is now competing on the collegiate level Ithaca College. The loss of one of MacArthur’s all-time great arms will mean the Generals bats will play an increased role this spring in the quest to return to the championship stage.

“We don’t have the same kids as last year but we still have some good pieces back and it’s just a different mindset as far having to hit and score and make the plays,” said 24th-year MacArthur coach Bobby Fehrenbach. “Last year when we got a 4-0 lead with the team that we had it was a pretty good bet we were going to win the game.”

The MacArthur offense has shown early on it can erupt at any moment such as a 12-11 win at Mepham on May 25 in which the Generals scored seven runs in the top of the seventh inning after trailing by four. Angela Pellegrino’s RBI single scored Hailey Trapani with the goahead run followed by a two-run single from Gabby Silvestri.

Trapani, a junior right fielder, is the anchor of the MacArthur offense after a breakout 2023 season in which she earned All-State honors with a .440 batting average and five home runs. Sophomore left fielder Gianna Spaventa is the spark plug in the lineup as the leadoff hitter and is coming off an All-County campaign where she hit .385 with 27 runs scored.

Senior Nicole Stueckenschneider is the Generals’ lone returning infielder and is a big piece of the lineup with some power in her swing. Stueckenschneider went 3-for-4 with two RBIs in a seasonopening 8-5 win against Glen Cove on March 22.

Freshman Alexa Livanos has taken

Donovan Berthoud/Herald Freshman Alexa Livanos has taken the reins as the starting pitcher after competing at the JV level as an eighth-grader last spring.

the reins as the starting pitcher after competing at the JV level as an eighthgrader last spring. Livanos struck out six in a complete game five hitter during MacArthur’s 14-2 victory at Long Beach on April 1.

“She’s a competitor,” said Fehrenbach of Livanos, who has pitched every inning this season. “Even when its bases are loaded one out or second and third no out she’s going to find a way to get it done and there are times this year where we’ve gotten out of those situations without

allowing a run.”

The Generals host Oceanside Thursday at 5 p.m. before visiting East Meadow for a 10 a.m. first pitch. MacArthur entered the week at 1-2 in Conference 1 and 3-2 overall, a stark contrast to how the Generals stormed out of the gate last season.

MacArthur’s conference is largely the same from last year, but for one big change with 2023 Class A runner up Clarke getting substituted for longtime Class AA contender Farmingdale.

Attend our upcoming UNDERGRADUATE

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, May 5, 2024

Campus Tour times: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon, 1:30 p.m.

Hofstra University is a community designed with your future in mind.

During this year’s Spring Open House, speak with Hofstra’s world-class faculty and learn about its 175 undergraduate programs, various student services, clubs, organizations, and NCAA Division I athletics, all while touring a stunning 244-arce campus filled with cutting-edge facilities and research labs, and residence halls that will make you feel at home.

In-person and virtual tours are available. For event details and to RSVP, please visit hofstra.edu/visit

Wisdom Lane students become authors

Eighth graders in the honors program at Wisdom Lane Middle School in the Levittown School District recently became authors after publishing an original book. The picture story, aimed at their peers in the sixth grade self-contained class, was unveiled at a book release party on March 14. Both classes gathered in the Wisdom Lane library for eighth graders to read the book, “I Am Me,” to sixth graders as snacks and refreshments were offered. The book, fully illustrated by those in Jessica Dillon’s honors English class, contains messages of posi-

tivity, acceptance and expressing confidence in oneself. Eighth graders also prepared a drawing for sixth graders to color in. Both presenters of the book and its new readers had a great time interacting with one another.

The book was assembled through Student Treasure Publishing, which selected “I Am Me” as a semifinalist in its National Book Challenge. If chosen as a finalist, the class could receive one of several prizes, including a $5,000 grant for the school or a $50 gift card, which the class pledged to donate to a local food pantry.

Photos courtesy Levittown Public Schools

Eighth graders in the honors English class at Wisdom Lane published a book dedicated to their peers in sixth grade. “I Am Me” was unveiled during a party on March 14.

From left, Leilani Drax and Diana Wahppa were proud to become authors through a story focused on positivity.

Eighth graders helped sixth graders complete a coloring activity inspired by “I Am Me.”

From left, Ileana Arias and Emily Angerhauser spread the love during the book launch.

By Danielle Schwab & Tim Baker

Lori Lang, Malverne

“I have all the kids go through their closets and see what’s donatable to either a church or Big Brothers Big Sisters. Spring cleaning can be a great way to give back to the community.

What is your spring cleaning ritual?

Karen Richards, East Meadow

“When winter is over, spring means starting over with a clean slate. I follow what my mom and grandma did with their spring cleaning, so it’s been passed down the generations.”

Patti Elliott, Seaford

“I get the outside ready as soon as possible. The backyard is our ‘other room’ that we get to use in the spring/summer.

Lisa LoGuidice, Merrick

“I love to entertain in the spring and summer outside, so spring cleaning is a great way to feel a sense of coziness for myself and my guests.”

Nicky Lutsky, Long Beach

“Being stuck inside for the winter, you want to make everything fresh and exciting come spring. My mother was a big cleaner, so I gained my cleaning skills and routine from her.”

STEPPING OUT

Comic showcase

By Karen Bloom

Spring beckons with the first burst of blooms. While signs of the season are all around us now, there’s no place better than to welcome the season than at the always-glorious Old Westbury Gardens.

The landmark 200-acre estate, which officially re-opened April 1, is ready to delight visitors with its glorious gardens, a refurbished Westbury House, and a busy schedule of programs and activities.

This year promises to be especially exciting for President Maura Brush (in her first full season heading the beloved landmark), staff and visitors, as the estate — the former residence of lawyer John Shaffer Phipps, an heir to the Phipps family fortune — marks its 65th anniversary as a public home and garden.

“When the gardens opened to the public, Peggy Phipps and her friends probably carried it through many of those first years, that transition from private to public,” Brush says. “Sixty-five years is a big deal for an organization. I feel a great deal of energy going into this year. We’re really hitting our stride now.”

Brush describes her organization as an independent nonprofit that’s managed to hold its own in a place like Long Island that has so many things to offer people.

“So, the fact that we’re still here 65 years later with higher attendance — a higher rate of membership than ever before — speaks to people’s support of us,” she says. “We have our own special place in Long Island history, and our own special place in the horticultural world.”

That “specialness” is evident from the moment visitors enter through the gates. The first signs of the season have made their presence known.

“April is so exciting, with so many flowers ready to appear,” Brush says, enthusiastically. “Every type, size and signs of blooms are so cherished.”

The lake area is a favored place to check out in early spring.

“In the beginning of the year, it’s those outlying areas around the lakes where the waterline sort of meets the grass that’s so pleasant to visit,” Brush says. “It’s contemplative. With the trees not leafed out yet, the sun kind of shines off the water. I’ve noticed people are looking to get the sunlight. In the later months, they want to escape the sunlight. But in April, they want to turn their faces up and bask in that sun after winter.”

Old Westbury Gardens is reinvigorated for a milestone year ahead

• Old Westbury Gardens

• 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• For more information and program/events schedule, visit OldWestburyGardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

Path, Brush’s favorite spot at the start of the season.

“It’s at its best from April through midMay,” she says. “It’s particularly interesting from a horticulturalist standpoint. There are so many things that naturalize on their own in there, and its nice to see nature having a part of the painting. You know the Walled Garden is beautiful, but it’s done by man, whereas the Primrose Path is a nice merge between man painting with our brush and mother nature painting with hers.”

Of course, its namesake — the showy, early blooming primrose — is certainly the star of that spot. Also forget-me-not and other spring ephemerals add to the springtime display.

“It’s a wild counterpart to the more formal gardens,” Brush adds.

She notes that the landscape is ever-changing and continuously bursting with color.

“Every week there’s a rollout,” she says.

From the cascades of cherry blossoms, the delicate frittillaria, daffodils, cheerful viola to, of course, tulips, shrubbery and trees, it’s all carefully conceived and executed by Brush’s team.

“We have a really well-curated display of bulbs that you’ll not see elsewhere,” she says. “So much time and care has been put into curating these bulbs. We utilize them in such a way that the combinations are so interesting. The Walled Garden is particularly exciting.”

Along with the colorful blooms, the extensive schedule of programming springs forth. This month’s highlights include the season’s first concert by Old Westbury Gardens’ resident chamber ensemble, Poetica Musica, April 13, at Westbury House. Dog lovers can look forward to the popular Dog Friendly Weekend, including the Spring Dog Festival, April 20-21. Pooches and their pet parents enjoy exploring the grounds (leashed of course), and meeting up with fellow four-legged visitors.

“The calendar is so full this year there’s barely a blank square,” Brush says. “We consider this a year-long celebration of everything old Westbury

Laugh the night away when the Long Island Comedy Festival returns to the Madison Theatre with new edition of its popular show. This entertaining evening of stand-up, hosted by Paul Anthony, features a top tier lineup of creative talent on the comedy circuit. Eric Tartaglione, John Ziegler and Baker & Mark (pictured) keep the laughs coming all evening long. Tartaglione’s high energy is complemented by physically expressive act. Whether he’s poking fun at his Italian background, his shortcomings or his married life, his performance is totally relatable to all audiences. Ziegler realized his childhood dream when he entered stand-up comedy at 40. Growing up in a large Jewish family in an Italian/Irish Catholic Long Island neighborhood has given him a unique perspective for his comedy. Finally, Scott Baker and Vinnie Mark, known as ‘The Quickest Thinkers in Comedy,’ are acclaimed for their fast-paced, off-the-cuff improv act. No two performances are ever alike.

Saturday, April 13, 8 p.m. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. For tickets and information, visit MadisonTheatreNY. org, or call (516) 323-4444.

The Wallflowers

Over by the lake, you’ll find early blooming shrubs like Cornelian Cherry and Viburnum, along with Flowering Quince, the multi-stemmed deciduous thorny shrub that produces short-lived red, orange, white or pink flowers and shiny, dark-green foliage.

“They are beautiful this time of year,” Brush notes.

Plus, an early spring visit to the lake area is an ideal opportunity to observe the estate’s wildlife.

“The lake is fun this time of year,” she says.“The ducks are there and you see turtles in the early part of the season sunning themselves on the logs and on banks. They congregate around the lake areas on the property. They really seem to enjoy being there.”

Also don’t miss the Primrose

“We always like to consider that you are guests in our home. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this milestone as we showcase the beauty and splendor that have defined Old

Westbury

Grab your leather jackets and get ready to rock! The Wallflowers have hit the road with their epic sound. Expect to hear fan favorites, including the Billboard 100 charter ‘Sleepwalker.’ Formed in 1989 by Jakob Dylan and guitarist Tobi Miller, the band has seen many changes over the years. The current line-up consists of Steve Mackey on bass, Stanton Adcock on lead guitar, Lynn Williams on drums, and Dylan on lead vocals and guitar. For the past 30 years, it’s stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands — a unit dedicated to and continually honing a sound that meshes timeless storytelling with a hard-hitting and decidedly modern musical attack. That signature style has been present through the decades, baked into the grooves of smash hits like 1996’s ‘Bringing Down the House,’ as well as more recent and exploratory fare like ‘Glad All Over.’ While it’s been nine long years since we’ve heard from the group with whom he first made his mark, The Wallflowers are silent no more.

Thursday, April 17, 8 p.m. $75, $45, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Old Westbury Gardens is ready to burst out with a brilliant display of color.

Photos courtesy Old Westbury Gardens

blooming shrubs like Cornelian Cherry and Gardens has to offer.

Gardens for generations.”

Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah

Every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and every Thursday from 7:15 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Temple B’nai Torah will be hosting a fun-filled day of bingo. Prizes, progressive games and refreshments will be available. Temple B’Nai Torah is located at 2900 Jerusalem Ave in Wantagh. For more information, call 516221-2370.

Celebrate Holi

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors, Sunday, April 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Originating in India, this Hindu festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of the colorful spring season. During this joyous celebration, families eat sweets, dance to traditional folk music and throw colorful powder made from flowers called gulal. Crafts, color throwing and dancing will be part of this vibrant event. Welcome spring’s arrival with Holi. Participants are encouraged to wear clothes that they won’t mind getting messy. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

On stage

April 14

Plaza Theatrical continues its season with “Til Death Do Us Part…You First,” directed by Chazz Palminteri, Sunday, April 14, 2:30 p.m. Peter Fogel wrote and perfroms his hilarious autobiographical tale. An eternal bachelor, Fogel has major commitment issues as the love of his life has just broken up with him on Valentine’s Day. He senses his own mortality and after much soul searching, he decides to revisit the scene of all his romantic disasters.

Fogel’s signature wit, along with riotous relatable characters, takes us on a whirlwind comedic journey of searching for his soul mate and the meaning of a real commitment. Fogel laments: “The longest relationship I’ve had in my entire life…is with T-Mobile!” $40, $35 seniors. See it at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre. 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Having an event?

Party through the decades

Dance to your favorite music from the ’50s to the present, at Temple B’Nai Torah for the Decade DressUp Dance Party fundraiser, Saturday, April 13, at 6:30 p.m. Dinner, dessert, and beverages will be served. $65 per person. Open to all adults, young and not so young, and attendees can dress in period clothing if they choose. 2700 Jerusalem Ave., in Wantagh. For more information, visit TBTWantagh.org.

Game time

Join the JULIETS for Mahjongg and card games at Congregation Beth Tikvah, every Thursday, noon-4 p.m. Masks are optional, but proof of Covid-19 vaccination is required for newcomers, as well as a contribution of $5 per person. 3710 Woodbine Ave., in Wantagh, For more information email mahjonggCBT@yahoo.com or call (516) 785-2445.

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.

April 23

Community Passover Seder

Join Congregation Beth Tikvah for the second night of Passover, Tuesday, April 23, at 6:30 p.m. Led by Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, the event will feature an inspirational Hebrew/English Haggadah, a fun multigenerational Seder, food, singing and storytelling. 3710 Woodbine Ave., in Wantagh. For menu, pricing, dietary concerns, reservations or repayment, call the synagogue office at (516) 785-2445.

B’Nai Torah Community Seder

Temple B’Nai Torah hosts a Community Seder, Tuesday, April 23, at 6:30 p.m. Led by Cantor Rica Timman, participate in a complete Seder with a full dinner. Adult admission is $65; $25 ages five to 13; under five are free. 2900 Jerusalem Ave. in Wantagh. For more information, contact Brian Levy via email at Bellobl@gmail.com or phone at (516) 459-4450.

Poetica Musica in concert

Enjoy a delightful musical tour exploring the history of France from Medieval times to the present, with Old Westbury Gardens’ chamber music artists-in-residence, Saturday, April 13, 7:30-10 p.m. in Westbury House’s Red Ballroom. Explore the works and styles of Mozart, Chopin, Ravel, Debussy, and Rameau, among others, with pianist Hayk Arsenyan, mezzo soprano Eleanor Valkenburg and guest artist Christopher Preston Thompson (tenor and harpist). With pre-concert discussion, 7:30 p.m., and Meet the Artists reception immediately following concert on the West Porch. $30 general admission, $24 members, $25 Seniors (62+) and students. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury. For information, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or call (516) 333-0048.

Baby shower for moms-to-be

Mercy Hospital hosts this free event for expecting moms-to-be, Saturday, May 11, noon to 2 p.m., in the lower level cafeteria. With raffles, giveaways for mom and baby, and meet and greets with physicians, lactation specialists, mother/baby nurses, games and more. For moms only. 1000 N. Village Ave. Email Elizabeth.Schwind@chsli.org to register. For more information, visit CHSLI.org/mercy-hospital or call (516) 6263729.

THE Your Neighborhood

Melissa Errico

April 19

Melissa Errico takes the stage with pianist-arranger Billy Stritch for her new show “The Life and Loves of a Broadway Baby.” She arrives at the Landmark on Friday, April 19, at 8 p.m., for this theatrical tour de force. Errico sets her own life to the Broadway songs that she has sung and owned — and offers both a sensational set of beloved standards and a series of witty and sometimes wicked stories about an ingenue’s life passed on the Great White Way. A sexy, sublime study of American songs, ranging from Cole Porter to Harold Arlen, Lerner & Loewe to Taylor Swift, with a substantial peek at Melissa’s new Sondheim album, “Sondheim In The City,”, with songs like “Everybody Says Don’t,” “Take Me To The World,” and “Being Alive.”

A woman of stage, screen and song, she’s a great interpreter of classic musicals and modern music alike, as well as a sparkling writer, recording artist, and film/television actress. Opera News has called her “the Maria Callas of American musical theater,” referencing both her silken voice and dramatic, expressive intensity, first came to attention for her starring roles on Broadway. She has since become a concert, cabaret and recording artist as well. Errico has starred on Broadway in such musicals as My Fair Lady where The New York Times called her Eliza Doolittle “beguiling,” White Christmas in the Rosemary Clooney role of Betty, and as Cosette in Les Misérables. Come hear for yourself why Broadway World says, “The way Melissa Errico immerses herself in every moment, the technical brilliance of her vocal abilities, and the sheer star power that the lady exudes, makes her a take-no-prisoners performer, offering a leave-it-allon-the-floor show. $63, $53, $43. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

All Kids Fair

The family extravaganza returns to Samanea New York Mall (formerly The Source Mall), Sunday, April 14, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Enjoy varied activities along with over 80 kidcentered exhibitors. New activities this year include Be a Biker for a Day, and Ninja Warrior obstacle course, along with soft play (ages infant to 5), mixed martial arts and pickleball, featuring two full-size pickleball courts with expert instruction.

Also three large bounce houses, DJ with Mr. and Mrs. Mouse, Face painting, balloon animals, photo booth, sensory play, gputting green, arts and crafts, and more. $10 for children ages 2 and up, $5 for adults; all tickets $5 advance purchase. 1504 Old Country Road, Westbury. For tickets and more information, visit AllKidsFair.com.

Weekly bingo

Bingo everyone! Temple B’nai Torah host fun-filled bingo sessions, every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.; every Thursday, 7:15 p.m.-10 p.m. Prizes, progressive games and refreshments are available. 2900 Jerusalem Ave., in Wantagh. For more information, visit TBTWantagh.org or call (516) 221-2370.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Urban Art Evolution,” is a comprehensive exhibit featuring a diverse range of compositions from the 1980s through the present by creators who were based in the rough and tumble downtown area of New York City known as Loisaida/LES (Lower East Side/East Village) and close surrounding neighborhoods. Artists pushed the boundaries of what was considered “art” with a primary focus on street/graffiti art. The exhibit’s scope, guest curated by art collector/gallerist Christopher Pusey, offers an even broader view from other creative residents, who worked inside their studios but still contributed to the rich fabric of the downtown art scene from different vantage points and aesthetics.

Works include sculpture, paintings, photography, music, and ephemera from many noted and influential artists. On view through July 7. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Seaford LIFTs up education community

Educators from across the country and the world learned about the Seaford School District’s unique LIFT program at the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development’s annual conference in Washington, D.C. on March 23.

Superintendent Adele Pecora, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Instructional Support Sheena Jacob, Executive Director for Instructional Technology and STEAM Debbie Langone and LIFT teacher Leah Kukla presented on the program, which was launched in the 2022-23 school year. The elementary program merges library, innovation, fitness and technology.

During their presentation of “We Have LIFT Off” to a standing-room only crowd, Seaford’s educators discussed the trailblazing approach to education that offers students an enriching learning experience. LIFT replaced the traditional library special with a class that integrates various disciplines including STEAM and social and emotional health.

Jacob said that Seaford submitted a proposal to showcase the LIFT program at ASCD’s annual conference, and it was accepted. Their presentation connected to the conference theme, “Uniting Minds, Igniting Progress.”

“We were showcasing a program but we also talked about a philosophy that we’re embedding in our school culture,” Jacob said. “It puts Seaford on the map and promotes the excellence of this program at a national level. It was a very prideful moment.”

Jacob described LIFT as a “grassroots program” that aligns with Seaford’s mission of promoting innovation. She explained that LIFT was developed with extensive input from central and building administrators, as well as teachers, and with support from the Board of Education.

Pecora said that Seaford educators have attended several ASCD conferences in recent years, including workshops conducted by Habits of Mind founder Bena Kallick, as well as the author of Innovator’s Mindset George Couros.

“The international organization provides educators with access to professional development focused on promoting highly effective learning systems,” she said.

“The knowledge that we have gained through these experiences has supported the curriculum advancement of the Seaford School District. We were honored to be selected to present, ‘We Have LIFT Off!’ at the ASCD Conference in Washington,

D,C. Being able to share our LIFT Program and Seaford Scholar Profile with educators in an international setting was an opportunity to reciprocate and share our best practices.”

The presentation highlighted how to create an innovative program that reimagines the use of existing school facilities, as LIFT is taught in the Harbor and Manor libraries. Jacob explained that it shows how curriculum can be redesigned to support a vision. LIFT is derived from the Innovator’s Mindset and fosters the pillars of the Seaford Scholars profile.

LIFT is led by the team of Kukla, Dan Maricondo and Jennifer Rosenberg. Previously the Harbor Elementary School librarian, Rosenberg now handles instruction on library media skills and Project Lead the Way units at both elementary schools. When she is at one school, Kukla and Maricondo are at the other. They focus on health and fitness, as well as STEAM challenges and robotics.

Kukla explained that the fitness activities are designed to give students tools to help regulate their

Public Notices

jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 146064

emotions and improve their mental health. Cup-stacking challenges foster communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork. Students also participate in community-focused projects that benefit the school, their classmates and teachers.

“The program in its entirety covers so much,” she said. “I have not seen a program that incorporates so many components. It is a great opportunity for children to be exposed to different thinking skills.”

She enjoyed speaking about LIFT and said the response from other educators was very positive, with several coming up after the presentation to ask questions. The Seaford team provided all of the participants with a brochure on the program as well as their contact information for anyone who wants to learn more. Kukla said that any school can adapt LIFT to meet its own specific needs.

“It’s a good reminder that, as educators, we need to be innovators, as well,” she said. “We need to be creative and flexible in our approach to providing education to children.”

News brief

Water quality meeting set for April 17

The League of Women Voter of East Nassau is holding a meeting on April 17 at the Levittown Public Library.

There will be a presentation by Sarah Meyland, director of Center for Water Resources Management at the New York Institute of Technology. The topic will be about clean and safe water.

The Levittown Public Library is at 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown. The meeting starts at 3 p.m.

–Jordan Vallone

There will a water quality meeting at the Levittown Public Library later this month.

Courtesy Seaford School District Seaford educators, from left, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Instructional Support Sheena Jacob, Superintendent Adele Pecora, Executive Director for Instructional Technology and STEAM Debbie Langone and teacher Leah Kukla presented on the LIFT program at the ASCD conference in Washington, D.C. on March 23.

Courtesy Metro

CSC Holdings, LLC seeks a Lead Network Engineer to support network connectivity for internal business function and for Altice USA customers. Design and implement processes, procedures, policies, and standards related to the enterprise network. Deploy network gear to support new projects and be responsible for the technical success of such projects. Migrate network gear from legacy to new. Resolve complex issues within network environment and develop automation routines. #LI-DNI Position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology or a related field, and 5 years of experience in the design and implementation of Cisco route, switch, VPN, and firewall in large 1000+ node Enterprise environments. Experience must include a minimum of: 5 years of experience monitoring, troubleshooting, and configuring network routers, switches, wireless access points, and firewalls; 5 years of experience troubleshooting, diagnosing, and resolving network outages; 5 years of experience maintaining network environment by applying best practices and performing code upgrades; 5 years of experience with working directly with customers to resolve network connectivity issues; 5 years of experience documenting network changes; 5 years of experience with TCP/IP; 5 years of experience with OSPF; 5 years of experience with BGP; 3 years of experience with Firewalls; 3 years of experience with Load Balancers; 3 years of experience with Linux Servers; and 2 years of experience with Python Scripting. Part-time telecommuting may be permitted. Job location: Bethpage, NY. Rate of Pay: $172,515.00 – $182,515.00 per year. To apply, please visit https://www.alticecareers.com, and enter Job Requisition ID 5223. Alternatively, please send your résumé, cover letter, and a copy of the ad to: Altice USA, Attn: Erin M. Berry, One Court Square West, Long Island City, NY, USA 11101. Altice USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting, hiring and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds regardless of gender, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. Altice USA, Inc. collects personal information about its applicants for employment that may include personal identifiers, professional or employment related information, photos,

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

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FULL-TIME DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP)

Abilities, Inc. is looking for Direct Support Professionals to provide support services to successfully integrate individuals with developmental disabilities into their communities.

FULL-TIME DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP)

integrate individuals with developmental disabilities into their communities.

Abilities, Inc. is looking for Direct Support Professionals to provide support services to successfully integrate individuals with developmental disabilities into their communities.

Transport and accompany Program Participants to recreational activities — bowling, movies, volunteering — and other socialization activities. Additional duties, such as assisting with personal care needs, may be required. $20.00/hr.

Transport and accompany Program Participants to recreational activities — bowling, movies, volunteering — and other socialization activities. Additional duties, such as assisting with personal care needs, may be required. $20.00/hr.

HS Diploma/equivalent, prior work experience with adults having disabilities required.

Valid NYS Driver’s License required.

For more information, call (516) 465-1432 or email humanresources@viscardicenter.org

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ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE PART-TIME

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE PART-TIME

The Viscardi Center publishes a monthly print/digital newspaper and website that serves the New York City and Long Island disability community and is looking for an energetic, highly motivated sales representative. Sell print and digital advertising, assist with growth and management of the subscription base. Be able to learn quickly, multi-task, and work effectively to meet deadlines. This is a part-time position with a flexible schedule; $25-$30/hr. + commission.

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Long Beach And Queens

Call (516) 661-8471

Send Resume: yonab@autofix.com

Join the Village of South Floral Park team as our new Deputy Clerk!

Are you self motivated and good with being the go-to person for an organization? Do you thrive in managing a variety of tasks from social media updates to crucial village operations? If so, we want you! Bring your experience, Microsoft and QuickBooks skills, and top-notch communication abilities to a role where no two days are alike. Dive into a part-time position where you'll make a real impact, from handling important documents to leading in the Administrator's absence.

Ready to make a difference?

Email your resume and salary expectations to villageclerk383@optimum.net or fax to 516-352-0651.

Only selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Thank you for considering a career with us!

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

The Viscardi Center publishes a monthly print/digital newspaper and website that serves the New York City and Long Island disability community and is looking for an energetic, highly motivated sales representative. Sell print and digital advertising, assist with growth and management of the subscription base. Be able to learn quickly, multi-task, and work effectively to meet deadlines. This is a part-time position with a flexible schedule; $25-$30/hr. + commission.

For more information, call (516) 465-1432 or email humanresources@viscardicenter.org

The Viscardi Center publishes a monthly print/digital newspaper and website that serves the New York City and Long Island disability community and is looking for an energetic, highly motivated sales representative. Sell print and digital advertising, assist with growth and management of the subscription base. Be able to learn quickly, multi-task, and work effectively to meet deadlines. This is a part-time position with a flexible schedule; $25-$30/hr. + commission.

For more information, call (516) 465-1432 or email humanresources@viscardicenter.org

For more information, call (516) 465-1432 or email humanresources@viscardicenter.org EOE

TQ. My neighbor loves animals, so much that they have constructed little houses for feral cats and stray dogs. Although I haven’t said anything because we have a tall fence, and I don’t have to look at the menagerie of wildlife — including many ducks, squirrels and raccoons that also eat the food scraps my neighbor puts out — I wonder if this is allowed, and now that they’re starting to build very large bird “hotels” that I can see, I’m thinking this is really getting to be too much. Do they need approval to attract all of these animals, a permit or something?

A. There are restrictions, such as section 152-8 of Town of Hempstead code, prohibiting dogs at large. You can check your municipality code regulations, online, by typing in the name of your municipality followed by “ecode360.” Many communities restrict the number of pets and the containment of pets, and have a restriction that pets can’t be constrained for more than two hours to a stationary object, like a post.

Ask The Architect Monte Leeper

Stray dogs and cats are prohibited, even though many people take care of them. I wrote about this 25 years ago, and received hate mail for my insensitivity to these cats and dogs, even though I was quoting the ordinances, in addition to writing about how to keep strays from wandering into your yard. If the strays become a problem for you, there are regulations that your neighbor may be subject to.

Birdhouses seem fairly innocent, and unless they’re built to an abundant size, like the “hotel” you describe, there are no limits. When there are a number of birdhouses, or they become large enough to fall under the regulation of treehouses and sheds, the regulations become relevant, and the construction of these “accessory structures” falls under the zoning codes. I’ve seen birdhouses with 25 units in them, which is large enough to make it necessary to regulate. It brings new meaning to Airbnb. I’m not sure if the local governments that placed prohibitions on renting out homes to transients also included the bird population, since most birds have no place to carry cash or a credit card, but it may be worth looking into in your spare time.

A call to either your local building inspector or to animal and wildlife control centers can confirm the handling of the animals, and whether your neighbor is creating a nuisance. The biggest concern may be health considerations, since some species may carry diseases that can be harmful to other species or to you. For example, raccoons, cats and squirrels are known to carry rabies, and an even more dangerous disease called toxoplasmosis. They endanger dogs in particularly, since these diseases cause ailments that can cripple or destroy their immune systems. Cats are also in danger, and the droppings from each of these animals may also cause sickness in humans, but to a lesser degree. You are not wrong to be concerned. Good luck!

© 2024 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,

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The heartbreaking death of an NYPD hero

The tragic murder of 31-year-old New York City Police Officer

Jonathan Diller has had a devastating impact not just on his Massapequa Park community, but across Long Island, New York and indeed the country.

I represented Massapequa Park, and my district office was located there for all 28 years I was in Congress. Almost immediately after the news of Diller’s murder broke, blue ribbons appeared on local businesses and residences throughout Massapequa and Massapequa Park. Two nights later, there was a candlelight vigil at Brady Park that was attended by over 1,000 residents, who gathered in a steady rain to honor Diller’s memory.

The rain continued the following day, but that didn’t deter a long line of mourners from attending Diller’s wake at the Massapequa Funeral Home.

Among those attending and showing

his respects was former President Donald Trump, who met with and consoled Diller’s 29-year-old widow, Stephanie, and other members of his family. Trump demonstrated great dignity and respect, and clearly had a reassuring and calming effect on these good people.

I had the privilege of being there, and thanked Trump for giving strength to the Diller family and to the community. I also spoke briefly with Stephanie Diller, and was struck by her youth and her strength of character, which she will surely need after losing her husband so tragically and having to raise their 1-year-old son, Ryan, without his father.

My lasting memory will be of Stephanie Diller’s moving eulogy.

was bright and clear for Diller’s funeral at St. Rose of Lima Church in Massapequa. Rosemary and I drove to the service with Sid Rosenberg, from WABC radio’s “Sid and Friends”; his wife, Danielle; and Bill O’Reilly. Merrick Road was a seemingly endless sea of blue, as thousands of police officers lined the street in both directions for as far as the eye could see.

The steady stream of mourners continued the following day, Good Friday, when there was the controversial incident involving Gov. Kathy Hochul, who, by some accounts, was asked to leave the funeral home by Diller family members. I’ve heard various versions of what happened, but all of them made it clear that it wasn’t the amicable discussion Hochul claimed.

The weather on Saturday morning

We assembled across the street from St. Rose, in a group that included many strong supporters of the police, such as Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, former NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell and Congressmen Anthony D’Esposito and Andrew Garbarino. There were also those who didn’t belong, such as state Attorney General Letitia James and city Comptroller Brad Lander, who are shamefully anti-police.

The arrival of the hearse, the sound of muffled drums, a lone piper playing the haunting tones of “Amazing Grace,” the flag-draped coffin being carried into the church, followed by Stephanie Diller, holding Ryan in her arms, were truly heartbreaking.

Inside, the church was filled to overflowing with men and women in blue. My lasting memory will be of Stephanie’s courageous eulogy, in which she described her husband’s goodness and love, and then demanded that elected officials at long last correct the laws and policies that keep violent criminals on the streets and result in the senseless deaths of brave police officers. The church erupted in sustained applause, and there were tears everywhere.

Then mourners filed silently from the church and reassembled across Merrick Road. The coffin was carried from the church, and a bugler played taps. The flag was taken from the coffin and presented to Stephanie. The NYPD Pipe Band played “America the Beautiful.” The coffin was placed in the hearse, and the cortège began the journey bringing Jonathan Diller to his final resting place in St. Charles Cemetery. His life was over. His memory lives on.

NYPD hero Jonathan Diller, R.I.P.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Washington: where bipartisanship goes to die

It has never been a secret among my political friends that I have always been a strong supporter of bipartisan government. I practiced that philosophy during my 23 years in Albany, and I continue to believe that when the two parties work together, remarkable things can get done.

When I was a part of the Democratic leadership in Albany, I was frequently asked to sit down with Republican members with the goal of getting important legislation passed and signed into law. I recall, during one late-night session, a small group of us walked the corridors behind the chambers to meet with the State Senate Republican leader, Warren Anderson. We went for the purpose of discussing a number of major bills that had not been acted on in the closing hours of the session.

Bill by bill, issue by issue, we had an open and frank discussion of the pros and cons of the legislation, and after a few hours of talking, we all shook

hands. Hours later, the agreed-on package of proposals was on the floor of both houses, and by the time the morning sun was peeking through the chamber windows, all of the bills had been passed and were on their way to the governor to be signed.

A

I remember numerous sessions in which one of my fellow Long Island Republican senators would sit down with me during an Assembly session with a list of their local priorities. The late Norman Levy, who was a hard-working legislator, often came by with a fistful of pending bills, asking for my help to get them out of the Ways and Means Committee, which I chaired. From time to time I would make the same walk to the Senate side to ask for help with my legislation.

member to invoke another rule that requires a vote to keep or oust the speaker. It has already happened once, when a small cluster of hardheaded conservatives invoked the rule, and Kevin McCarthy was kicked out of the speaker’s job.

ny attempt to pass major bipartisan legislation is considered a form of treason.

I’m taking this walk down memory lane as a way of contrasting how government once functioned at the state level, and how, today, the legislative process in Washington is a total disaster. One good example is the rule adopted by the Republican members of the House of Representatives that allows any one

A few weeks ago, maverick Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, of Georgia, asked that the House consider that option again, this time to kick Speaker Mike Johnson out. Johnson’s sin is that he collaborated with House Democrats to avoid a shutdown of the federal government.

Greene is one of a small cluster of members who came to Washington for the sole purpose of blowing up the House, and apparently the country along with it. This right-wing bomb squad has succeeded in taking away almost all of the powers of the moderate members, who have yet to put up a real fight on any issue.

There are many important issues that have been kicked aside as a result of the machinations of the ultra-conservative block. The Senate passed a bipartisan bill that would impose the stron-

gest border security laws in recent history, and at the same time provide financial assistance to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. Johnson has refused to advance the bill, caving under pressure from former President Donald Trump, who insists that the members avoid making President Biden look good.

The idea that the House majority would refuse to approve legislation that would solve the border dilemma at the behest of a person who holds no elected office is a national tragedy. There are ample Democratic and Republican votes to pass the Senate bill and other bills that would make the current session of Congress a meaningful one, but Johnson is paralyzed and ineffective. Any attempt to pass major bipartisan legislation is considered heresy and a form of treason.

America desperately needs a good old dose of bipartisanship in Washington, but for now that is just a dream for old political souls like me.

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.

HeraLd editoriaL

The time to support local journalism is now a

few short weeks ago, we told you about the newly-formed Empire State Local News Coalition. The Seaford Herald is proud to be a member of this fastgrowing group of more than 150 New York local news outlets that have joined forces to protect local journalism across the state.

The work of our coalition has raised awareness of the importance of local journalism as well as the challenges facing the local news industry. (New York has lost half of its newsrooms since 2004.) We are grateful to communities across the state who have united behind us.

In just the past month, we rallied in Westchester County, where locals were stunned by the abrupt closure of three community newspapers. We went directly to Albany to appeal to lawmakers, and where we also rallied with elected officials from both the state senate and Assembly.

Numerous localities have adopted resolutions expressing their support for legislation that would support local journalism, and more municipal resolutions are in the pipeline. Even unconventional allies like Microsoft have joined our calls to save local news.

Thanks to these collective efforts, the Local Journalism Sustainability Act — which would provide tax credits to local news organizations for retaining and creating newsroom jobs — was included in the state Senate’s recent budget pro-

Letters

Larry McCoy will pick up the first dime

To the Editor:

Having had the pleasure of attending a writers’ workshop at the Oceanside and Rockville Centre libraries with the wellknown comedy writer Larry McCoy, I recognized his wit long before I even saw the name following his letter in last week’s Herald (“Let’s test these old presidential candidates”).

The humor of this talented octogenarian has been published in numerous books and articles, in case anyone needs a hearty laugh in these tumultuous times. While McCoy may doubt his own ability to take charge in the White House, I wonder if he might indeed be a better choice than the two senior gentlemen on the ballot. His insight into current events is impressive, and he employs it with dignity, charm and finesse. But the question is, can he bend over and pick up a dime on his first try?

■ Contact Gov. Kathy Hochul: (518) 474-8390

■ Contact State Sen. Steve Rhoads: (516) 882-0630

■ Contact Assemblyman David McDonough: (516) 409-2070

■ Contact Assemblyman John Mikulin: (516) 228-4960

Our newspaper is a proud member of the Empire State Local News Coalition. Support the coalition at SaveNYLocalNews.com.

posal for fiscal year 2025. This is a key step for inclusion in the state’s final budget, which is currently being negotiated by the senate, Assembly and Gov. Kathy Hochul.

However, there is a lot of work to be done over the next few days — when the final budget will likely be announced — to ensure the bill is actually included in the state’s final budget. It is crucial that the Local Journalism Sustainability Act is included, otherwise, communities throughout the state risk thou-

sands of newsroom jobs being lost — and even more important, stories going untold.

The Local Journalism Sustainability Act is sponsored by state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal with the bipartisan support of Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner and more than 70 co-sponsors. As newspapers shutter and layoffs roil the industry, the bill is a necessary measure for incentivizing job creation, returning reporters to many of the state’s emptying newsrooms.

The bill is content-neutral and designed to ensure that truly local news outlets will receive this assistance.

The leadership of the legislature’s Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Caucus has also endorsed our bill, which is a major testament to the fact that this bill will improve access to news for all communities.

New York residents are standing with local news, and now lawmakers must answer the people’s call to save community journalism. To get the Local Journalism Sustainability Act across the finish line, lawmakers must hear from you about why our newspaper matters, and why this bill is meaningful to you and your family.

So, if keeping local news alive in our state is important to you, please reach out to Gov. Hochul and your local representatives to let them know you stand with local news.

Budget negotiations are wrapping up imminently — the time to act is now!

L.I. GOP must condemn Trump’s dangerous remarks

elected officials, including many in Nassau County, regularly say they’re committed to bipartisanship — to “reaching across the aisle.” That is, of course, a worthy sentiment, especially in these hyperpolarized times.

Compromise does indeed lie at the core of politics in a democracy. Conservatives and liberals, when acting in good faith and with a shared set of values, can reach agreements that benefit both sets of constituents.

keVin J. keLLeY

But in order for politics to function in this way, politicians of differing views need to show respect for one another, and for the standards of civil discourse. Comity isn’t possible when extremism prevails. Threats of violence and attacks on people’s religious beliefs must be repudiated, regardless of where they originate on the ideological spectrum.

Calls for cooperation thus sound hypocritical when incendiary rhetoric is allowed to take the place of reasoned debate. Worse, politicians who lack the courage to condemn dangerous rantings by their own side’s leaders can be

judged complicit when unhinged speech results in criminal acts.

That’s why Long Island Republicans have a moral, as well as political, obligation to publicly condemn inflammatory remarks made by their party’s leader, Donald Trump.

We have already seen what happens when the bounds of civic decorum are breached. Trump’s unfounded insistence that the 2020 election was stolen led thousands of his followers to trash the U.S. Capitol, the citadel of American democracy.

wacknowledged, or tolerated.

This is not how democracy works. Trump’s repeatedly demonstrated disdain for the rule of law should be denounced as an unpatriotic affront to the memory of the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have lost their lives in defense of the nation’s founding principles.

ill they follow former V.P. Mike Pence’s lead, or stand by silently?

Something similar — or even more calamitous — may well occur this year. Trump recently warned, “If I don’t get elected, it’s gonna be a bloodbath.” MAGA militants are likely to take that message literally. They’ll wink and nod at the former president’s subsequent claim that he was referring only to the consequences of not curbing imports of Chinese automobiles.

Trump is also stoking racist hatred. Some of his most rabid followers may feel emboldened to physically attack migrants, whom their idol has referred to as “animals.”

Trump has said, too, that if he loses the 2024 election, that will be proof that it was rigged. In other words, the only acceptable result will be victory for Trump. His defeat would not be

Letters

Alzheimer’s caregivers need more state support

To the Editor:

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. In New York, 543,000 family caregivers are providing unpaid care worth almost $19 trillion to their loved ones with dementia.

Though these caregivers provide significant savings to the state, they are not getting enough support in return. The funding for New York’s Alzheimer’s Disease Community Assistance Program, or AlzCAP, which offers care consultations, support groups, educational programs and other services, has been stagnant for years, while the number of caregivers who need these services has continued to grow.

I have seen the caregiving struggle firsthand. My grandmother has Alzheimer’s, and my mother must balance caring for her from another state with helping my autistic brother and deal-

ing with the demands of her own life. She’s not alone — there are many caregivers with similar stories. It is imperative that New York support them, not only because it will mitigate their financial, emotional and physical struggles, but also because it will mean less of a financial burden for the state than nursing home care.

Taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s is extremely stressful. The Alzheimer’s Association’s recent Facts and Figures report found that 70 percent of dementia caregivers feel stressed when they are coordinating their loved ones’ care. It also found that more than half of them find it hard to navigate health care in the United States, which adds to their stress.

New York can do better in supporting people who take on this vital role. Please join me in calling on the members of the State Legislature who represent you to increase funding for AlzCAP from $5 million to $7 million.

HELENA MILLER Volunteer advocate, Alzheimer’s Association

Nassau County Republican officeholders have a responsibility to treat their impressive recent electoral victories not as an opportunity to gloat or ridicule their opponents, as Trump did throughout his term in the White House, but rather to urge their supporters to respect democratic processes, and their opponents. Similarly, local Jewish leaders — Conservative, Reform and Orthodox -should assure their congregants that it’s possible to vote for Joe Biden and still be good Jews and defenders of Israel.

Trump, of course, does not agree.

He declared on March 18 that “any Jewish person that votes for Democrats hates their religion.” Asked the following day about that comment, Trump doubled down: “Democrats have been very, very opposed to Jewish people,” he said, absurdly.

Never one to engage in temperate criticism, Trump has lately entered

Framework by Tim Baker

rhetorical realms far beyond the limits of responsible speech. He is certainly not a conservative of the Reagan variety, nor is he in sync with prominent local Republicans such as former Congressman Peter King, who has displayed the courage, in the pages of the Herald, to criticize Trump’s dangerous divisiveness.

The United States needs a credible conservative party that focuses on fundamental issues such as the role and the size of government. Liberal positions should be challenged in informed, reasoned exchanges based on facts, not fabrications. But this is not the case for the party led by Trump.

What will Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Hempstead Town Supervisor Donald Clavin do? Will they follow the lead of former Vice President Mike Pence, who has termed Trump unsuited to hold the nation’s highest office? Or will they stand by silently and allow political exigency to take precedence over government of, by and for the people?

History will judge their actions — or inactions.

Kevin J. Kelly was a congressional staff member in the 1980s, and is a retired journalist and journalism professor who worked for newspapers in New York, Vermont and Kenya and taught at St. Michael’s College in Vermont. He lives in Atlantic Beach.

Honoree Tameka Wallace at the Premier Business Women of L.I. Awards, at Heritage Club at Bethpage.