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UNIONDALE _____________
HERALD BEACON
Reflecting on a great leader
Making a beautiful noise
Knights are off to a fast start
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JANUARY 11 - 17, 2024
School district is focused on growth in 2024 By REINE BETHANY rbethany@liherald.com
Holden Leeds/Herald
Rosita Orellana, far left, Addie Blanco-Harvey, Juana Hernandez, Monica Linares, Iris Granados and Estrella Olivares-Orellana all put hands and hearts to work making pupusas at a meeting of the Latina Mentoring Initiative in Uniondale last Saturday.
Pupusas, tradition, pride, giving with Latina Mentoring Initiative By REINE BETHANY rbethany@liherald.com
In the brightly lit Yellow Room cafeteria at Uniondale High School, a cluster of women and teen girls watched Juana Hernandez’s swift hands knead warm water into fine cornmeal, creating a thick dough called masa. It was a deceptively simple start to a morning of nutrition, tradition and supportive fellowship at a meeting of the Latina Mentoring Initiative last Saturday. Businesswoman Addie Blanco-Harvey, a Uniondale Board of Education trustee of Salvadoran heritage, was leading the day’s meeting, which she called, “Bonding through the art of making Salvadoran pupusas.” Now Blanco-Harvey stood with Hernandez and Rosita Orellana, two Salvadoran women who are staff members at Uniondale High. Blanco-Harvey narrated the process — and the meaning — of making pupusas, the filled flatbread of El Salvador. “Just this process itself, from making the
salsa to filling the masa, takes about three hours,” she said. Pupusas pack protein, complex carbohydrates and vegetables into cozy griddle cakes meant to be consumed companionably, sitting around a table with friends. A common street food in Salvadoran cities, the pupusa was proclaimed the national dish of El Salvador in 2005. They are an important national export, and nowadays most U.S metropolitan areas are dotted with pupuserías — restaurants whose specialty is pupusas. Once the masa had been kneaded, BlancoHarvey led the group into the cafeteria kitchen, where Hernandez’s and Orellana’s skilled hands pinched the dough into circles, added palmfuls of bean-and-cheese filling (with or without meat), and deftly flattened the nutritious balls into pancakes destined for a hot griddle. When ready to eat, the hot pupusas are traditionally laid on a plate, topped with a spicy cabbage slaw called curtido, and moistened COntInUEd On pAGE 16
Every spring, third- through eighth-grade students in New York sit for a series of stategenerated exams in English Language Arts and math. Every student in each grade answers the same questions as every other student in that grade across the state. The purpose is to assess whether students are learning the material in the state curriculum. But what do these test scores actually reveal? According to Monique Darrisaw-Akil, superintendent of the Uniondale school district, the results should not be viewed as if they were college entrance exams. They are not a summation of a student’s potential, but more like a timed lap in a runner’s training. “State tests are one part of the story,” Darrisaw-Akil said. “We use them to help us assess where students are on their learning journey right now — and to help ourselves think about what we can do to move them to a more proficient place in their journey.” Matthew Ritter, the district’s assistant superintendent for data, assessment and accountability, detailed what happens
wh e n t h e t e s t s c o re s a re released. “We examine the state test data with the understanding that it’s only one piece of a much richer picture,” Ritter said. “We have other tools that will help us get a much more detailed picture and plan more acutely for student learning. For example, we use i-Ready” — an online assessment program — “to assess students periodically in reading and math throughout the school year.” Taking reading as an example, Ritter said, “We do an i-Ready assessment in fall, winter and spring, which gives us a picture of student g rowth across the year in seven different areas of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary and comprehension. Teachers use the assessments to help plan their instructions.” “We also use Fountas and Pinnell for benchmarking reading levels in early grades,” Darrisaw-Akil added, referring to the literacy-focused website for teachers and administrators. “Direct demonstrations of student ability when they produce projects are also important. We are constantly monitoring our students’ progress. We don’t COntInUEd On pAGE 16
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First public hearing on casino is next week
January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
By BRANDON CRUZ bcruz@liherald.com
The first public hearing regarding the Sands casino since the New York State Supreme Court ruled in favor November that the signed lease transfer for the Nassau Hub between the Las Vegas Sands group and county was not valid and they would have to start the entire process over again. Earlier last year, Hofstra filed suit against the county claiming them and Sands violated both the state’s Open Meetings Law and the State Environmental Quality Review Act when the Nassau County Planning Commission voted in favor of the Sands lease in April, and its referral to the Nassau County Legislature for ratification in May — a notion that Judge Sakira Kapoor found to be true and ruled in Hofstra’s favor. As part of the ruling, Kapoor ordered both the planning commission and the legislature to conduct new public hearings, which are starting next Thursday on Jan. 18 at the Marriott hotel at 101 James Doolittle Boulevard in Uniondale. Two sessions will be held throughout the day, one starting at 10:30 a.m. and the other taking place at 6 p.m. “We’re just going to go through the process again, and we’re going to win because we have more support now than we ever had.” said Matthew Aracich — president of the Building and Construc-
Brandon Cruz/Herald
Proponents of both sides of the Sands casino issue making their cases heard at the initial Nassau County Legislature vote back in June, which approved the lease transfer at the time. tion Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties, who would oversee the construction of the proposed entertainment center if passed. At 393,726 square feet, this proposed casino would be the second largest casino in the country behind only the WinStar World Casino & Resort in Oklahoma. The 80 acre property would be redeveloped with outdoor community spaces, high-end hotels, and what County Executive Bruce Blakeman described as a “world-class live
performance venue honoring the legacy of live music” at the Coliseum. According to Las Vegas Sands, the project would create 12,000 construction jobs, employ 5,000 people at an average salary up around $70,000 per year, and includes the construction of celebrity chef restaurants, convention space and ballrooms, a day spa, a swimming pool, and a health club. But the Say No to the Casino Civic Association say that these benefits do not outweigh the consequences of placing a
casino in the heart of an already underfunded and underserved community. “The proposed casino would be colossal, dwarfing casinos in Las Vegas, and will have far-reaching, monumental impacts on our community,” said the civic association in a release on Monday. Some of these impacts, according to the civic association and Hofstra president Susan Poser, are increased crime rates, decreased home values, an influx of approximately 23,000 visitors a day — creating a traffic nightmare and increasing air pollution — and projects an annual $2 billion in annual losses from the local economy. “The documents provided on the Town of Hempstead website confirm the significant adverse environmental and social impacts that this monstrous complex will bring to the heart of Nassau County: more traffic, more air, light and noise pollution, enormous use of our water supply and energy for a casino complex that will be more than 1.5 times the size of the Roosevelt Field Mall, more gambling addictions, and a corrosive, destructive change to the character of our community,” the civic association continued. “We look forward to contributing to the planning process and advocating for the use of the Hub in ways that will best contribute to our thriving community,” Poser said about next week’s meeting, “while protecting against environmental and other harms.”
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Community shares what MLK Day means to them bcruz@liherald.com
As Martin Luther King Jr. Day arrives on Monday, it serves as more than just another mark on the calendars for this community — it carries echoes of remembrance, reflection, and a collective commitment to the dream that he so ardently envisioned, and this vision is not a distant echo, but instead a living force that advocates for equality, justice, and unity. In remembering the legacy and impact of Martin Luther King Jr., some in the community are inspired by the work that King has done throughout his short life and use his messages as motivation to not only better themselves, but Herald file the community as a whole — which Uniondale schools superintendent Monique Darrisaw-Akil, left, and school board Courtesy David Adeoya many feel have been forgotten by the David Adeoya, a financial advisor based president Mary Bediako attend the grand opening of the new community center in local government. in Uniondale. Uniondale. So what does MLK Day mean to this community? These perspectives of our was impact my community and actually community leaders, educators, activists, help people who look like me use this and everyday residents give insight into country for their own benefit instead of just how much of a lasting legacy that it using them for theirs.” King has left on all of us. Adeoya explains that in the financial “As the daughter of a man who was field, there are not many who look like raised in the segregated South and him representing Black people’s interattended segregated schools, ests or even understanding Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. their own culture or backDay is an important remindground. “My goal in busier of the extreme hardships ness is to leave an impact, people of African descent make a difference and edufaced in this country, as well cate my clients and my peoas the great triumphs we ple on what’s out there in achieved,” said Uniondale terms of resources and how superintendent Monique to navigate them when it Darrisaw-Akil. “It is a day of comes to information, finanreflection, but also it is a day cial planning, and building to acknowledge and comgenerational wealth — memorate the people of which is something that every race and creed who we’ve historically lagged Herald file came together to foster a behind in and have been Pearl Jacobs, president of the Nostrand Gardens Civic Assocaition, sitting and leading more equitable society for all fighting to correct for years people.” and years,” he said. a discussion at a meeting on Uniondale’s water quality back in November. “These aren’t just free “What MLK day holds for days off,” the superintendent me in terms of significance, continued, “we let the Chilgoes back to my upbringing dren know that these days in the church,” said Mike DAviD ADeOyA off were hard earned and on Edwards, who grew up in financial advisor in this day, we remember the Uniondale. “I would actually Uniondale legacy of Dr. King, but we be responsible for some of also remember the other the readings that occurred countless men and women who fought during our special Martin Luther King for the civil liberties we now enjoy.” Mass.” Mary Bediako, the president of the Edwards, whose mother’s side of the Uniondale school board, added that family originates from the south, says King’s legacy has had an immense that his parents were teenagers when amount of influence on her, saying that MLK got killed. “They remember exactwhat he fought for and believes has ly how the entire world reacted to such a inspired her own work. “His legacy and tragedy,” he said. “For me, it’s the recogwhat he stood for influences the work I nition of such an important man in our do for my community, my country and history, somebody that was so responsias a human being who is trying to make ble for helping Black people break life better for everybody else,” Bediako through the barriers that would othersaid. wise still exist. When you talk about David Adeoya, a financial advisor Herald file today’s leaders, and how far black peobased in Uniondale, feels the same senti- ple have advanced across all areas of Jeannine Maynard, co-facilitator for the Greater Uniondale Area Action Coalition, givment as Bediako. To him, MLK Day repthis country, without people such as ing a presentation on Uniondale’s water quality back in November. resents freedom, change, and a sense of MLK at the top of that list, history the civil rights movement,” she profound impact — inspiring him to Maynard believes that our country is would be definitively different. explained. “I was about 7 or 8 when the want to be as impactful as MLK and desperate to listen to the words of MLK Jeannine Maynard, co-facilitator for March on Washington happened. I saw other civil rights leaders to create posiabout unity and non-violence. “Nonviothe Greater Uniondale Area Action the energy, planning and the news firsttive change throughout the Black comlence chooses love instead of hate and it Coalition, says that as someone who is hand. Both sides of my family stood up munity. believes that the universe is on the side of mixed race, MLK day holds a great together for meaningful, positive “As a Black man from a single parent of justice. The enemy is not the person, significance for her. “My parents were household, all I have ever wanted to do it’s the ideology.” an interracial couple in the 1950s, before change.”
A
s a Black man from a single parent household, all I have ever wanted to do was impact my community and actually help people who look like me.
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
By BRANDON CRUZ
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CRIME BRIEFS
Uniondale man arrested for burglary at crime scene In the wee hours of Sunday morning, officers of the First Squad of the Nassau County Police Department arrested a Uniondale man for burglary. When officers responded to Rosy’s Beauty Salon at 678 Jerusalem Ave., they were confronted by the sight of a broken glass front door. An immediate search inside led to the discovery of Jose Portillo Sandoval, 36, of Jerusalem Avenue, trying to find a way out so he could run away on foot. The officers intercepted Sandoval on
the spot, and arrested him at 3:02 a.m. without further incident. They also recovered $558.00 in cash. Sandoval, it was found, was also the man caught on security cameras when he allegedly robbed Liberty Tax at 536 Uniondale Ave., in Uniondale on Dec. 10, 2023. Sandoval is charged with two counts of burglary and two counts of criminal mischief. He was arraigned on Sunday in Hempstead. — Reine Bethany
Police identify the man they say brutally stabbed woman Police say they’ve identified a man they believe brutally stabbed a woman last July in Hempstead. Detectives want to talk to Elwin Rolando Martinez Chavarria, 38. They believe he walked up to the 41-year-old woman sitting outside on Robson Place in the early evening of July 28, and stabbed her multiple times. The woman was rushed to a local hos-
N O R T H A M E R I CA’S
1 Selling
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CHAVARRIA
Courtesy Town of Hempstead
Helping the environment
Gail Wright of Hempstead, right, got a little help recently from Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray as part of the town’s Stop Throwing Out Pollutants event at Baldwin Park. The program allows residents to dispose of harmful pollutants — such as antifreeze, drain cleaners and pesticides — in a safe and environmentally friendly way.
pital and was treated for her injuries. Anyone with any information about Chavarria’s whereabouts are asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at (800) 244-8477. All calls remain anonymous.
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Congratulations to the new couple — Liana Hernandez-Orozco and German Florez — who were married by Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, left, last November at Hempstead Town Hall.
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PERSON TO PERSON
ew Year’s Eve is tradion yourself. tionally a time that we Time to give up on those tired attend to the tick of the old resolutions that don’t work. clock, reflecting on the Time to make new ones that you’ll keep and that’ll keep you previous year, resolving to do betsmiling. ter in the New Year. What kinds of resolutions are Most resolutions people make those? Here are ten are repetitive. We’re going to lose psychWisdom examples. Go ahead, swipe a bunch for your those extra pounds, personal use. exercise daily, drink less, curb our temper, ■ I will remind save money, organize myself that, despite my our mess, give stuff age, I’m still a work in away, be more patient, progress. spend more time with ■ I will take pride in family and friends. making my share of Ho-hum. So what else mistakes, as it’ll remind is new? Linda Sapadin me that I’m not afraid to Weren’t you going to try new activities or do that last year and take on new pursuits. the year before? Perhaps the problem is you’re ■ I’ll remember to switch my negjust weak-willed. ative narrative, “I can’t” to a posiYou lack the fortitude and chartive one, “One thing I can do is …” acter to stick with any resolutions. Might as well give up on making ■ I’ll believe that I’m “good enough.” I’m not perfect nor do I any. Right? need to be. Hence, I’ll believe I’m Wrong! Time to give up, but not
worthy of love and respect from myself as well as others. ■ I’ll wake up each morning and remind myself of all the things I have to be appreciative of. ■ When I feel vulnerable, I’ll seek understanding from sympathetic friends rather than numbing myself with drugs, food, or drink. ■ Rather than comparing myself to others to notice how I fall short, I’ll celebrate who I am and what I’ve accomplished. ■ Though there’s no quick way through life’s worst moments, I’ll remind myself that those moments won’t last forever, and I won’t always feel so desperate. ■ I’ll respond to criticism with grace, generosity, and goodwill as I learn how others perceive me and my actions. ■ I’ll scale back on activities I believe I must do to make time for enjoying myself and being with
those I enjoy. ■ This one’s yours. Write down what you believe would be a great New Year’s resolution for you. And forward it to me if you’d like. Well, what do you think? Do you prefer the old or new resolutions? As I’m sure you guessed, I like the new ones. Why? Because they’re a joy to keep. You’re growing and celebrating a better self, not just trying to get rid of what you dislike about yourself. Happy New Year, my dear readers. I appreciate you. ©2024
Linda Sapadin, Ph.D. is a psychologist, life coach and author who specializes in helping people overcome self-defeating patterns of behavior. You can reach her at DrSapadin@ aol.com or 516 791-2780. For additional articles, visit her website at www. PsychWisdom.com.
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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
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New improved New Year’s resolutions
January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
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BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK
HERALD SPORTS SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE
A sizzling start for Uniondale by dAVid PATAlAno sports@liherald.coom
dominic obukwelu V.S. North Senior Basketball A TWO-TIME All-County selection and one of the Herald’s featured players in its 2023-24 preview section, Obukwelu continues to compete at a high level. The versatile forward who can do damage from the perimeter (22 threepointers) and drive to the rim averaged more than 20 points over the Spartans’ first 11 games including a season-high 28 against Valley Stream South Dec. 16. He’s also averaging 7.5 rebounds.
GAMES TO WATCH Thursday, Jan. 11 Boys Basketball: Oceanside at Syosset .................... 5 p.m. Wrestling: V.S. South at Lawrence ............................. 5 p.m. Gymnastics: Hicksville at Long Beach ....................... 6 p.m. Gymnastics: Garden City at Hewlett .....................6:30 p.m. Gymnastics: Lynbrook at Wantagh ............................ 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Uniondale at Freeport..................... 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 12 Girls Basketball: Garden City at Sewanhaka ........4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Elmont.......................... 5 p.m. Wrestling: North Shore at Seaford............................. 6 p.m. Boys Basketball: V.S. Central at Long Beach ............. 7 p.m. Boys Basketball: MacArthur at Mepham ................... 7 p.m. Boys Basketball: Kennedy at South Side .................. 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Seaford at Clarke............................ 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: South Side at Kennedy................... 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 13 Wrestling: Uniondale Tournament.............................. 9 a.m. Wrestling: MacArthur Tournament ............................. 9 a.m. Wrestling: Freeport Tournament................................. 9 a.m. Wrestling: V.S. Central Tournament ............................ 9 a.m. Boys Basketball: Wantagh at Lynbrook ...................12 p.m. Boys Basketball: East Rockaway at West Hemp. .....12 p.m. Girls Basketball: Lynbrook at Wantagh ....................12 p.m. Boys Basketball: Friends Academy at Lawrence......12 p.m. Girls Basketball: West Hemp. at East Rockaway......12 p.m.
nominate a ‘Spotlight Athlete’ High School student-athletes nominated for consideration to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an All-Conference award or better last season. Please send the following information for consideration: Name, School, Grade, Sport(s), accomplishments and a head shot to Sports@liherald. com.
Uniondale’s girls’ basketball team is off to a fantastic start to its season. The Knights are currently sitting at 9-2 overall, including 3-2 in Conference AAA games. Senior Darrian Jackson has been a prolific scorer as she currently sits at second in all of Nassau County, averaging 21.6 points per game. Some of her best performances include 29 at Susan Wagner, 28 against East Meadow, 25 against Elmont and 25 at Oceanside. In the win over Port Washington she scored 25 of Uniondale’s 39 points. Sophomores Zahara Saintyl and Eniola Adisa complete the three-headed monster. Saintyl is a double-double machine who averages 10.2 points and well over 10 rebounds per game. Adisa excels at not only scoring, averaging 11.2 points per game but distributing the ball as well. “It’s a huge luxury to have three girls that can score pretty much whenever they want,” head coach Nolan Dunkley said. “If one of the three are having trouble, the other two will do more than enough to pick up the slack.” While the Knights have been able to score consistenly to win games, their defense has been a key to their success all year long. “Our pressure defense is great,” Dunkley said. “We’re very athletic and the amount of pressure we can apply really does rattle other teams.” Kayla Reid and Jada Murchison round out the starting lineup. The duo is the defensive backbone of the team, as they consistently guard the opponent’s best offensive players. “[Reid and Murchison] will research the other teams we’re playing and say ‘okay coach this is who I’m guarding,’” Dunkley said. “They really help us out a lot on the defensive side of the ball.” Nilah James is a very important piece off of the bench as she can put the ball in the basket as well. She had her best game of the season against Holy Trinity when she scored 13 points with three made three-pointers. Two players that come off of the bench and provide valuable leadership are seniors Sidalia Brissett and Guerlande Salomon. Their experience tends to right the ship if something ever goes the wrong way. “The seniors have been around the program for a while and they really bought into what we’re trying to build here,” Dunkley said. “[Brissett and Salomon] knew they weren’t initially going to start but that wasn’t a problem for them, they just want to help the team in any way they can.” Uniondale, which defeated Farmingdale 54-37 Monday evening behind 21 points from Saintyl and 20 from Jackson,
Ross Farber/Herald
Sophomore guard Eniola Adisa has been a key component to the Knights’ impressive 9-2 start, averaging more than 11 points per game. has 10 games remaining on its schedule and there is much optimism for the rest of the season. “We’re still trying to get over the hump beating these good teams in our conference,” Dunkley said. “Humbling
losses will happen because we do still have some things to work on. We like to get back in the lab and reflect on every game because when you’re winning games you can get blinded by all of the good things.”
TeenHacks unveil day of innovation at Hofstra bcruz@liherald.com
Explore the realm of coding creativity and hacking without any concerns of hurting anyone or breaking any laws. TeenHacks LI, an upcoming free hackathon organized by students, invites high-schoolers to immerse themselves in a day-long coding extravaganza at Hofstra University on Sunday, Jan. 21st for the first time since 2019. Grab your passion for coding, bring your laptop, and prepare for a day filled with innovation and collaboration, but hurry, there are only 110 spots available for this event that is open to participants from both counties and all five boroughs. The TeenHacks LI hackathon will be a chance for teens who are interested in broadening their understanding of software designs to join with others and think about ways computer programming can help improve a situation. The TeenHacks LI hackathon offers a valuable opportunity for teenagers with an interest in expanding their knowledge of software design to collaborate with peers of the same interests and explore how computer programming can contribute to problem-solving. This event is particularly suitable for teens who are both well-versed in technology, as well as beginners who are new and in the process of experimenting with their hacking and coding skills.
Courtesy TeenHacks LI
Students raising their hands in excitement, ready to participate in TeenHacks LI’s Hack-a-Thon in 2019. Now five years later, they are back at Hofstra and hosting their first event since the Covid-19 pandemic. This event goes beyond just coding and hacking challenges, this hackathon is an opportunity for teenagers interested in expanding their knowledge of software design and exploring how computer programming can be a force for positive change, according to TeenHacks LI. While hacking may have had nega-
tive connotations in the past, TeenHacks LI seeks to redefine the term. “Hacking is basically where all the registrants collaborate in teams of about two to four and they basically just code, create and brainstorm ideas that they would want to implement into projects that have real-world effects,” Ray Kong, who rep-
resents TeenHacks LI, stated. “Normally you have this sort of negative connotation with hacking,” Kong continued, “but with us, being able to create lifechanging products and life-changing applications — these students will come away with this sort of problem-solving collaboration and new ways of thinking that you wouldn’t normally get in a classroom.” Starting at 9 a.m., the hackathon promises a day filled with creative coding challenges. Attendees will have the opportunity to form teams, brainstorm ways to use programs creatively, attend workshops, listen to professional speakers, enjoy free lunch, snacks, and even get some cool gear — all while sharing their ideas and refining their own projects. Previous hackathons hosted by TeenHacks LI have birthed remarkable teen-led projects, including Chrome extensions monitoring computer data and apps supporting the LGBTQ+ community for an online merchandise store. “You’re exposed to people you’ve never met before and it’s sort of this think tank of ideas where everyone is contributing toward a common cause –– and that is, making something beautiful,” concluded Kong. If you’re interested in signing up your teen to be part of this coding extravaganza, visit the TeenHacks LI website at TeenHacksLI.com for more information about the hackathon and registration details.
You Are Invited Offshore Wind Open House Events Learn more about offshore wind in New York State Visit wind.ny.gov for more details Students from all over Long Island participated in the TeenHacks LI’s Hack-a-Thon in 2019, and TeenHacks LI expects an even greater turnout now after a five year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Hempstead, Long Island • Tuesday, January 23, 2024 • 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. ET and 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. ET • Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549 Long Beach, Long Island • Wednesday, January 24, 2024 • 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. ET
Open to the public. Advanced registration not required.
Students collecting their badges and free stickers as they sign in to the TeenHacks LI’s Hack-a-Thon in 2019.
1241082
• Long Beach Public Library 111 W Park Ave, Long Beach, NY 11561
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
By BRANDON CRUZ
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New tax assessor aims to be accessible rate, transparent, assessment office,” Adamo said. “Maybe under the previous administration it wasn’t that, but now I feel like the problems have been fixed, As the new acting tax assessor for Nassau County, and now we’re going forward.” And there have been a few errors. Democrats in the Joseph Adamo wants his department to be accurate and transparent when it comes to establishing how county legislature revealed in 2022 that nearly 850 much tax properties inside the county will pay each property owners were overcharged for school taxes. And then last March, county officials disyear. covered it had failed to apply $139 million For some 25 years, Adamo has worked in assessed valuation on nearly 625 homes, on the other side of the field, representing which left affected homeowners with little clients wanting to challenge how governtime to challenge the assessments. ments assessed the value of their properFinding a permanent county assessor ties, with the hope of reducing tax bills. has been challenging since the departure This, he says, gives him an understanding of David Moog — appointed by then-counof how assessments work, where property ty executive Laura Curran — in 2021. Matvalues should be, and the importance of thew Cronin moved into the role soon getting to know the people behind the after, but stepped down last summer. deeds. JoSEpH AdAmo Since then, the County Executive Bruce “The one thing that I want to get across acting tax assessor, Blakeman searched nationwide for a sucto everyone in Nassau County is that I’m cessor, realizing he did not need to look far, going to be the most resident-friendly Nassau County finding Adamo in his own backyard. And assessor out of them all,” Adamo told the Blakeman has made his expectations of Herald. “I’m here to do a job, and I’m going Adamo clear, telling the Herald in a statement his new to do it well.” The role of the assessment department is, among acting assessor will make the department “the most other things, to determine the taxable value of all resi- fair, accurate, transparent and resident-friendly dential and commercial properties in Nassau County. department in the nation.” Adamo will serve in an acting capacity for the next That includes collecting property information, maintaining property records and tax maps, and answering six months. By summer, Blakeman is expected to decide if his role becomes permanent. questions from the community. In the meantime, Adamo, wants to get more of his Although he’s spent the past decade working in Manhattan, according to his online resume, Adamo is staff on the phones to make sure assessments are corno stranger to Nassau, growing up in Levittown. Nas- rect. He believes in talking to people and putting himsau is a county he loves, Adamo says, and hopes to self out there. “I just look forward to the challenge ahead,” Adamo turn the assessment office into one people can rely on. “I want every owner of property to have a fair, accu- said.
By CHARLES SHAW
cshaw@liherald.com
I
’m here to do a job, and I’m going to do it well.
NOW LEASING
/
Courtesy Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman
Joseph Adamo, the new acting assessor for Nassau County, brings with him 25 years of experience assessing property for tax value. He replaces Matthew Cronin, who left his interim position last year.
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January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
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January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
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44 Uniondale students selected for All-County By BRANDON CRUZ bcruz@liherald.com
Uniondale is home to some of the most talented people from across the entire Island, being home to celebrities like Busta Rhymes and Sheryl Lee Ralph, alumni like Donya Taylor — who appeared on season 22 of Hell’s Kitchen — to athletes like Chica Akazi, who is currently ranked first in the state for the 55 meter dash and Jomani Wright, one of the best basketball players in Long Island who tragically died in a car accident in 2018. But Uniondale’s greatness goes beyond just excelling athletes and performers. The school district has been on an incredible surge the past few years, with Superintendent Monique Darrisaw-Akil leading the charge in what residents call an “incredible turnaround” for the district. The District has set ambitious goals for this school year, including the goal to “enhance literacy and numeracy while promoting creative arts,” according to the district. This week, Uniondale announced that 44 talented students from their music programs were selected to particiMONiqUe pate in the prestiDARRisAw-Akil gious 2024 Nassau Uniondale Music Educators superintendent Association AllCounty Music Festival, which took place on Jan. 7 at the Tilles Center. This incredible concert showcased the musical prowess of the top student musicians from across all of Nassau County. According to the Nassau Music Educators Association, their mission is to “enrich school music programs by nurturing student musicianship and empowering our members through collaboration and pro-
T
he selection of our scholars for the NMEA All-County Music Festival is a testament to their talent and the quality of our music education.
Reine Bethany/Herald
Uniondale elementary and middle-school orchestra students, shown here playing for the 100th anniversary of Northern Parkway School, performed at the 2024 Nassau Music Educators Association All-County Music Festival on Jan. 7 at the Tilles Center. fessional development,” something that rings home for the district. “The selection of our scholars for the NMEA All-County Music Festival is a testament to their talent and the quality of our music education,” said the Superintendent with pride. “We are proud to see such a diverse representation from our District.” The 44 selected students were nominated based on participation in either the school’s band, orchestra or chorus, their musical achievements and New York State School Music Association, or NYSSMA scores — with the NMEA selection committee making the final choices out of thousands of nominees. Uniondale’s selected students are in various grades and come from all over the district, with students from California Avenue, Grand Avenue, Northern Parkway, Smith Street, Walnut Street, Turtle Hook and Lawrence Road, and Uniondale High School being selected. “It’s an honor to have our scholars from various schools participate in this prestigious event,” said Director of Fine and Performing Arts Kelvin Jenkins. “This achievement by our scholars highlights their dedication and the exceptional training provided by our faculty.”
Courtesy Uniondale School District
Members of Uniondale’s show choir, Rhythm of the Knight, performing at this year’s Christmas tree lighting at the Nassau Hub back in December.
Courtesy Uniondale School District
Pure Gold, the name of Uniondale’s marching band and the description of the music this band plays.
Courtesy Uniondale School District
Pure Gold, Uniondale’s marching band, performing in summer 2023
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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
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Long Island fate attracts county execs, governor By RACHELE TERRANOVA rterranova@liherald.com
There are just a few events that are a must when it comes to Long Island, and everyone who is anyone finds themselves at the State of the Region breakfast hosted by the Long Island Association. It’s become an annual tradition for leaders across the island — and state — but took a different approach this year with a round table featuring Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, and former congressman — and current Herald columnist — Peter King at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury last week. In the discussion moderated by LIA president and chief executive Matt Cohen, the two county executives shared their top priorities for the upcoming year. Blakeman made clear his plans to continue campaigning for public safety, having added 70 new officers to the Nassau County Police Department in just the last year. Blakeman also plans to keep the $5 billion Las Vegas Sands redevelopment project and casino at the Nassau Coliseum alive and well. Economic development is his top priority, Blakeman said, emphasizing Long Island continues facing funding issues at the state level.
Courtesy Craig M. Cooper Productions
The new year brought local and state electeds together at the Long Island Association State of the Region breakfast, where Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine joined former U.S. Rep. Peter King in a discussion moderated by LIA president and chief executive Matt Cohen. “The state should realize that Long Island is the goose that lays the golden egg.” Blakeman said. But it is all about making the most of what you do get, said Romaine, who just started his new role as county executive Suffolk last week. And guaranteeing you get everything you’re supposed to. “Let’s make sure we get our fair share of federal and state aid,” he said. “We get short-changed. We shouldn’t be short-changed. We are a tremendous
ERALD HHERALD
economic engine for this state. We need to get full funding.” King emphasized his staunch support of Israel after the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, while also continuing his backing of Ukraine against the 2022 Russian invasion. And, sticking to topics that have helped Republicans across the board in recent years, King affirmed his stance against allowing what he describes as unvetted migrants entering the country. While a lot of Long Island’s leader-
ship now represents the GOP, there were Democrats, too. Like U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and Gov. Kathy Hochul. Schumer has just finished his 25th year visiting each of New York’s 62 counties, reflecting on past accomplishments — especially those of a bipartisan nature. Like those with King, who worked with Schumer quite a bit over the three decades they served together. From advocating universal gun background check legislation to supporting first responders of the 9/11 attacks with better health care. For Schumer, however, moving forward in 2024 consists of supporting offshore wind and renewable energy, as well as getting full Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursement for hospitals throughout the island. Hochul declared Long Island the epicenter of offshore wind, as it has the possibility to create tens of thousands of jobs. “I’m with Long Island,” the governor said, “because New York cares about Long Island immensely.” And that includes whether their colors are red or blue. “I know how to work across the aisle,” Hochul said. “It’s in my DNA. And I cherish the ability and the privilege to represent all walks of life in every corner of the state.”
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January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
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STEPPING OUT
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Courtesy Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live
Demo Derby — driven by Taylor Holman — and other popular trucks, including Tiger Shark, will thrill fans with exciting car-crunching feats as they fly more than 35 feet in the air. 5-Alarm, the newest vehicle, is primed to be a star in the show. Plus, the fiery Arctigon thunders into the arena ready to chomp.
Hot Wheels havoc
Monster trucks roar to life in spectacular style
Saturday, Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. $49.50, $39.50, $34.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
By Danielle Schwab Those iconic Hot Wheels toys take to the tracks when the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow party lights up Nassau Coliseum. Once again, fans of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life when the action returns to Long Island, Jan. 20-21. The spectacle will involve families in monster mayhem, with a laser light show, dance parties, theatrical effects, toy giveaways — with the spotlight on exciting monster truck and motorcycle stunts. It’s truly a family affair, starting on the track. The Holman family — Bobby, his son, Cody, and Cody’s wife, Taylor — all will be behind the wheel when the tour arrives here. They’re among the drivers who adeptly handle these 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound machines that bring audiences to their feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles. Who better to be involved in a show geared to families than a family of monster truck drivers? “It’s really cool for us,” says International Monster Truck Hall-of-Famer Bobby Holman. “A lot of people say they can’t work with family. But for us, it’s a really good deal and keeps us together. We expect more out of each other.” The elder Holman pilots Tiger Shark, a monster truck that, as he tells it, combines the best parts of both tiger and shark, making it a standout favorite for the kids. On top of driving Tiger Shark, he also had a direct hand in creating the epic ride. “We put it all together, and Cody painted it,” he says. “It literally looks like a shark sitting there, painted like a tiger.” As with the other drivers on the circuit, monster trucks are Holman’s passion. The owner of a monster truck repair shop in Dayton, Ohio — Team Beast OffRoad _ he’s been involved in the monster truck world for more than 40 years. He and his son work on many of the trucks that appear in the show, including painting and vinyl wrapping. “I grew up around monster trucks. From the time I was old enough to walk, I knew I wanted to be a driver,” Cody says. “When I was 17, I started doing shows with my dad.” This year, he’s thrilled to be driving the newest edition to the monster truck lineup, Hot Wheels 5-Alarm, known as the fire truck hero. Father and son are joined by Cody’s wife Taylor, who drives Demo Derby. When she’s not taking risks on the track and in air, she’s devoted to caring for others on the frontline of health care as an ER nurse at a children’s hospital in Ohio. “Fans get to bring their family to the show,” Cody says, “and I get to bring mine.” Friendly competition among the drivers quickly gets fans revved up. The non-stop action includes a wheelie competition, donuts, long jumps, freestyle, and even motocross. And if that is not enough, there’ll be a special appearance by the car-eating, fire-breathing transforming robot Arctigon. Cody — last year’s winner — is eager for a repeat. Fans will just have
The multi-faceted Pete Correale brings his ‘Authentic’ tour to the Paramount stage. You may know him from his numerous late-night appearances on the ‘The Tonight Show,’ Letterman and Conan, his three TV comedy specials, or as co-host of ‘The Pete and Sebastian Show,’ his podcast with longtime friend Sebastian Maniscalco — with an ever-growing fan base. Correale’s tours also continue to grow exponentially as more and more people discover him and fall for his accessible and extremely relatable point of view. His love for entertainment started when he went off to college. With a conversational delivery and his trademark disarming ‘regular guy’ attitude, he makes you feel like you’re listening to the funniest guy at a party as opposed to just another comedian on a stage.
to wait and see. “Hot Wheels is all about the kids,” Bobby says. “We even put in precautions because the trucks are • Saturday and Sunday, typically very loud with Jan. 20-21; times vary these motors, so we put • Tickets start at $52.50, $90.75 mufflers on them. A lot of VIP, plus $24.20 Crash Zone (prices are subject to change); these kids have never seen available at Ticketmaster.com and monster trucks up close, HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive.com so we don’t want to make • Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale them afraid of the trucks. Every part of the show is geared toward them.” From back flips on motorcycles to the aforementioned transforming robot, the show has it all. And in showstopping monster truck fashion, it all happens in the dark. “The show was phenomenal without the lasers, but now it’s just incredible,” Bobby adds. “If you’ve never seen the show, you need to because it’s spectacular.” Everyone is encouraged to arrive early to experience the popular pre-show exclusive, Crash Zone. Fans can obtain access to the arena floor at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Saturday, and noon on Sunday, when they can see trucks up-close and meet the drivers, get autographs, take photos, and check out some toy versions of the big trucks. Fans also can purchase a VIP experience that includes souvenirs and a special backstage tour. And of course, there will be Hot Wheels toys for sale including exclusive Hot Wheels trucks and merchandise. Bobby Holman still remembers when Cody played with Hot Wheels as a kid. Now it’s come full circle. As Bobby puts it: “We bring toys to life. These kids see these little bitty trucks, and when they come into the arena, their eyes get wide and their smiles get big ‘cause now they are seeing a real monster truck.”
Ikigai Sands Point Preserve’s Four Seasons in Music series welcomes the new year with its first concert of 2024, at the stately Hempstead House. The Preserve’s historic mansions and grounds are the backdrop for this unique chamber music series, created by the series’ artistic director Kathryn Lockwood. The winter edition celebrates the Japanese ‘ikigai,’ a reason for living. The ensemble duoJalal — featuring Lockwood on viola and percussionist Yousif Sheronick — is joined by Japanese Koto player Yumi Kurosawa, violinists Ilmar Gavilan and Doori Na and cellist Raman Ramakrishnan. They’’ll dive into the traditional and non-traditional Japananese sounds. Inspired by their namesake, 13th century poet Jalal a din Rumi — whose words brought together people of different religions, cultures and races — duoJalal offers a stimulating inter-cultural experience. Sunday, Jan. 14, 3 p.m. $50, $40 members. Sands Point Preserve. 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point. Tickets available at SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org, or call (516) 571-7901.
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
Pete Correale
Your Neighborhood
THE Jan.
On exhibit
Art talk
Tom Papa
The multi-faceted Tom Papa brings his “Good Stuff” tour to the Paramount stage, Saturday, Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. With more than 20 years on the stand-up circuit, Papa is one of the top comedic voices in the country. In addition to his mastery of the stage, he’s found success in a variety of creative pursuits including as an actor and host in film and television, contributing writer for The New Yorker, author of three books, and popular podcast and radio host. He’s also a sought-after panelist (and occasional guest host) for NPR’s comedy news quiz Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me. Papa has five highly rated stand-up specials to his credit including his most recent Netflix special, What A Day!, filmed at the iconic Wilbur Theatre in Boston. This past June, Papa released his anticipated third book “We’re All In This Together…So Make Some Room.” It’s a compilation of comedic essays that aim to unite us through our stupidity. His highly-rated podcast, Breaking Bread with Tom Papa, features Papa and his guest eating, drinking, and engaging in revealing and funny conversations. When he’s not on the road, Papa lives in Los Angeles with his family where he spends most of his time writing and baking bread. $59.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
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Join Franklin Hill Perrell, curator of Nassau County Museum of Art’s “Our Gilded Age,” for his talk “Art and Decorative Art Styles of the Gilded Age,” Sunday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. He’ll discuss a selection of works on view through the lens of the era’s changing styles and art movements including, grand tradition portraiture (in the spirit of Sir Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough) French Salon style, Impressionism, Realism/Social Realism, Romanticism; and in the decorative arts, and Renaissance Revival Style vs. Art Nouveau. Artists examined include John Singer Sargent, William Merritt Chase, Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt and Louis Comfort Tiffany. Limited seating; advance registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Chip in at Mulchfest It’s time to bid farewell to those Christmas trees and the Town of Hempstead is ready to help. Residents can dispose of their Christmas trees at Mulchfest, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 13-14, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at Baldwin Park. Receive a bag of mulch in return. Also dispose of cardboard boxes accumulated during the holiday season. “Chip in” to help the environment — and safely dispose of those holiday trees. 3232 Grand Ave., Baldwin.
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Our Gilded Age,” examines the appearances and the realities of an era that mirrors our own in many ways. Like the nation’s economy, American art and literature flourished during the Gilded Age. The art of John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Louis Comfort Tiffany and others adorned palatial residences designed by Stanford White and Ogden Codman Jr., architect of the museum’s own quintessential Gilded Age mansion. Drawing heavily upon the local literary history of Long Island, including William Cullen Bryant, Mark Twain (who named the Gilded Age), Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton and others, the exhibition will include paintings, fashion, decorative arts including period silver and china, photographs, manuscripts, first editions and other historic memorabilia. The “Upstairs, Downstairs” approach to the life of a country house brings to life not only the storied conspicuous consumption for which the Gilded Age was infamous, but also the real lives of these many individuals who maintained the palatial estates where that lifestyle was enjoyed. On view through March 10. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
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January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
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Library Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting
‘Parallel Perspectives’ View Molloy University Art Gallery’s current exhibition, a duo exhibit displaying artwork of noted Long Island artists Holly Gordon and Ward Hooper. Various complementary paintings and prints are on view. Upon meeting, it became obvious that both Gordon and Hooper were deeply inspired by Long Island’s fascinating environment and natural beauty. Together, they toured the island and captured the same places, each interpreting the scenes in front of them through their distinctive artistic styles. Their creations not only influence one another but also blend unique aesthetics in their collaborative artistic journey. Gordon and Hooper’s partnership yielded numerous accomplishments, one of which was the publication of their book “Parallel Perspectives: The Brush/Lens Collaboration.” Through Feb. 16. Kellenberg Gallery, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Call (516) 323-3196 or email artgallery@molloy.edu for more.
Let Freedom Ring with MLK Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr., Monday, Jan. 15, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from the Civil Rights Movement and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” For ages 5 and up. $4 with admission, $3 members. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.
Uniondale library board holds its first monthly meeting of the new year, Wednesday, Jan. 17, 7-9 p.m. in the library auditorium. For more information, contact Tricia Smith-Duhaney at TSmith@ UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220 ext. 235.
ESL class Literacy Nassau hosts an ESL class for those seeking improve English language skills, Wednesday, Jan. 17, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at Uniondale Public Library. No fee or registration required to attend. 400 Uniondale Ave. For more information, contact Literacy Nassau at (516) 867-3580 or visit LiteracyNassau.org.
Having an event?
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.
Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
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Breastfeeding Support Group
Civil Rights presentation In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day this month, Uniondale Public Library hosts a virtual presentation on the Civil Right Movement of the 1960s and discussion on furthering equity and equality, Thursday, Jan. 11, 7-8 p.m. Register at UniondaleLibrary. org. 400 Uniondale Ave.
Movie matinee Enjoy a movie on Uniondale Public Library’s big screen. See “Selma,” a chronicle of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965, Friday, Jan. 12, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Movie is rated PG-13 and runs 128 minutes. No registration required. 400 Uniondale Ave.
Cooking with Chef Rob Chef Rob visits Uniondale Library, Saturday, Jan. 13, to teach two cooking classes. Teens, at 12:30-1:30 p.m., will learn to make chicken fajita penne pasta skillets and “ultimate” chocolate oatmeal cookies. Adults, at 2-3 p.m., will cook pasta and prepare fresh vegetables for chicken fajita penne pasta skillets. $3 fee. Register at UniondaleLibrary.org. 400 Uniondale Ave.
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Making pupusas, with a little bit of pride, camaraderie
January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
COnTInUed fROM page 1
with freshly blended tomato salsa. For this session, the ingredients were donated by Giovanni and Lorena Fernandez, owners of La Fuente Restaurant in Uniondale. By the middle of the process, 15 teenage girls, their mentors, Uniondale High School principal Mark McCaw, and district superintendent Monique DarrisawAkil were packed happily around the stove with Hernandez, Orellana, BlancoHarvey and Estrella Olivares-Orellana. Laughter and chitchat filled the air, and everyone took a turn at shaping the doughy circles. Olivares-Orellana is the director of the Multilingual Learners program in the Uniondale district, and the site coordinator for the Latina Mentoring Initiative at Uniondale High. “This is not just about making pupusas — it’s about instilling confidence, cultural pride and a sense of community in our young Latinas,” she said. Olivares-Orellana is in the second year of leading the mentoring group, which was started by Gov. Kathy Hochul. “On Oct. 21, 2021, Latina Equal Pay Day, Governor Hochul announced the Latina Mentoring Initiative to level the playing field for young Latinas,” Olivares-Orellana said. “The New York State Mentoring Program rolled out this initiative, Superintendent Darrisaw-Akil accepted the invitation, and in September 2022, Uniondale High School became a NYS Latina Mentor-
Rosita Orellana and Juana Hernandez, staff members at Uniondale High School for many years, demonstrated the art of making Salvadoran pupusas for the Latina Mentoring Initiative meeting last Saturday. The pupusas were delivered to eight new families in the Uniondale school district. ing Site under my leadership.” The mentors are volunteers who apply through the state program and select Uniondale as their preferred site. Mentees are recommended by teachers or other faculty members. They all meet twice a month at Uniondale High. “We do different activities every time,” Blanco-Harvey said. “Around Thanksgiving, we do ‘Friendsgiving.’ We had a ses-
sion where we helped the mentees work on a five-year plan. At another, we did mock interviews after we helped them with resume writing.” Last year, Blanco-Harvey took the girls to one of the offices of Premier Endodontics, where she is a marketing manager. The doctors spoke to them about applying to dental school. “We are really trying to encourage our
mentees to know that they can accomplish anything they set out to do,” BlancoHarvey said. When the pupusas were cooked, the group ate together. Several of the girls, all seniors at the high school, sat with one of the mentors, Liliana Polo-McKenna, and talked about why the meetings are important to them. “We learn about getting ready for college,” Iris Alfaro said. “Finding a job is going to be very easy for all of us, because we have the mentors’ help.” “I like the community feeling,” said Yeissi Artita. “We have people from different countries. I learn from each one.” “You can say whatever you feel,” Amy Hernandez said. “The mentors want to give you ways to walk forward in your life.” “It’s an incredibly rewarding experience, seeing them Saturday after Saturday, every other week,” said Polo-McKenna. “The school is so supportive.” Meanwhile, back in the kitchen, Hernandez and Orellana put the finishing touches on the last heap of pupusas, which had a charitable destiny. OlivaresOrellana and Victoria Basantes, a mentor who is also the intake coordinator for the district’s Multilingual Learners program, drove to the houses of eight recently arrived newcomer families and presented them with pupusas. “They were very happy,” Olivares-Orellana said. “It was just a great event.”
Superintendent: Use state test scores as they are intended COnTInUed fROM page 1
wait for the state tests to tell us how we’re doing.” Standardized tests, Ritter said, cannot account for the Uniondale district’s
linguistic diversity. About 25 percent of the students are English language learners, which may complicate how they perform on standardized tests now, but will eventually become a strength.
Public Notices
LUNI1 0112
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU INDYMAC BANK F.S.B., V. MARC MOISE, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated June 22, 2009, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein INDYMAC BANK F.S.B. is the Plaintiff and MARC MOISE, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 1, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 644 EDGEMERE AVE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553: Section 36, Block 124, Lot 86-88: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE
BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN UNIONDALE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 012287/2008. Michael G. Zapson, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 144116
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Mortgage Assets Management, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Solomon Lightner, Individually and on behalf of the Estate of Bernice Lightner; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 11, 2023 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 24, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 36 Conlon Road, Roosevelt, NY 11575. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Roosevelt, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 55 Block
549 Lot 34. Approximate amount of judgment $609,777.50 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 008609/2014. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” George P. Esernio, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: November 29, 2023 143903
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
“If you imagine a student who is just beginning to learn English in the fourth grade,” Ritter explained, “what the state exam might say about that student doesn’t reflect the power of the student’s eventual bilingualism, which will truly be an asset in the job marketplace.” “It takes more than three years for a child to learn English,” Mary Bediako, a former math teacher and school administrator with more than 40 years of experience in the area, said. “If I were the state education commissioner, I would make sure that students who are non-English speaking should be in the country at least three to four years before they get tested. But when they’re here for a year and they are included in the test, we are doing them a disservice.” Darrisaw-Akil also addressed the district’s racial and ethnic diversity. “Historically there is a gap in standardized test scores between students of color versus white students,” she said. “The equity work we are undertaking is closing the gap, to ensure that when our students leave us, they can compete and collaborate and perform with anybody.” State test scores, Darrisaw-Akil said, are all too often “weaponized”: misused to sort districts, schools or teachers into categories of “good” or “bad.” These labels obscure the real victories that are being won against tough odds. “Suppose your family had to move during your school year,” Darrisaw-Akil said. “If you came into class with skills
below grade level, and by midyear you’re approaching grade level, that is a huge victory. And we have data to document the genuine growth in our students.” That growth is what the district promotes, using multiple strategies that don’t stop with elementary school. “A good number of the success stories here in the district land in the upper grades,” Ritter said. “Many of the assessments in the upper grades are more well-rounded, more performancebased and discipline-specific, like the different Regents exams. Take reading — we have a large number of kids coming out of eighth grade who scored less than proficient on the state tests, but who later score proficient on the English Language Arts Regents.” Furthermore, Ritter said, the number of Uniondale students taking Advanced Placement courses has risen, as has the number of scholars who achieve the Seal of Biliteracy when they graduate. And more of Uniondale’s graduates are college-bound. “I stand beside our teachers who deal with different lear ning groups and unique learning styles every day,” Darrisaw-Akil said. “We will focus on the data, but we also know that we are seeing growth in our students — in attendance rates, behavior, interim measures of progress, and college acceptance rates. We want our schools to shine, but we are really focusing on growth.”
17
Employment
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Help Wanted
Seeking Candidates For The Following Position:
EMPLOYMENT
TEACHER AIDE
DRIVERS WANTED
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. 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
Valley Stream UFSD 30 is currently accepting applications for Teacher Aides. Those interested will be required to comply with Nassau County Civil Service and New York State fingerprinting requirements.
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma
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1243454
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EDITOR/REPORTER Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K 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
Be A Part Of A Growing Multi Media Company Based in Garden City
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SALES/MULTI MEDIA CONSULTANTS – INSIDE & OUTSIDE* FT/PT Salary Range $33,280 to $100,000 including Commissions & Bonuses REPORTER/EDITOR FT/PT (Salary Range $20,000 to $45,000)
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $23 per hour)
EXPERIENCED DOG WALKER: 5 Days/ Week. Star ting 7:30am. $20/ Walk. N. Merrick. Call 917-319-2202
MAILROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP FT/PT (Salary Range $16 per hour to $17 per hour) PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT/PT (Salary Range $20 per hour to $30 per hour)
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
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Email Your Resumes to or Call
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OFFICE PERSON FT: Mon-Fri. Input Orders, Computer Skills. Wholesaler. Warehouse Setting. Island Par k. Star ting $18/Hour. Email Resume: appcoem@gmail.com 516-608-9200 Eric
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Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250 PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Start A New Career For The Holiday And New Year Seeking Individuals With Good Phone Skills For Real Estate And Mortgage Financing Office Full Time Or Part Time
Call Ben 718-266-9700 Or 347-866-5619
Childcare Offered KING'S KIDS DAYCARE - We Provide Loving And Fun Educational Environment For 6 Weeks To 12 Year Olds. Please Call 516-538-0643.
Check out our Service Directory for all your repair, decorating, party planning, cleaning or moving needs, and much more!
1243304
8 AM to 3 PM / 5 Days A Week / District Wide Starting Salary $20,172 EFFECTIVE DATE IMMEDIATELY
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
HERALD
1239662
VALLEY STREAM UFSD 30
Open Houses HEWLETT: 1267 Peninsula Blvd, Open House By Appt, NEW! 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, L I R R , Tr a n s & H o u s e s o f W o r ship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299 HEWLETT BAY PARK: BA 190 Meadowview Ave, , Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!.REDUCED!!.$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299 EAST ROCKAWAY 1/14, 12-1:30, 1 Newkirk Ave, Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR,2.5 Bth SH Col on Beautiful St. in SD#20(Lynbrook). New Quartz/Wood EIK w/ St Steel Appl, LR/Fpl,DR,Den & New Powder Rm. Spectacular Primary Ste with Hi Ceiling/Rad Htd Bth/2 WICs. Fin Bsmt w/Playrm & Office.Newly Lanscaped Yard w/Pavered Patio/Stone Fire Pit. Att Gar/2 Car Drvwy. Must See!...$936,000 R o n n i e G e r b e r, D o u g l a s E l l i m a n 516-238-429
Houses For Rent HEWLET BA 1554 Moffitt Ave, OPEN , WHOLE HOUSE RENTAL! Updtd 4 BR Col w/ 2 New Bths. LR/Fpl,FDR, Den & Kit. Main Flr BR/Off. Newer W/D, Ductless AC Units, Gas Ht. 2 Car Det Gar. Enclosed Yard. SD#14(Hewlett-Wood). Great Location Near Schools, Park, LIRR & Houses of Worship...$4500 per month Ronnie Gerber. Douglas Elliman 516-238-429hewlett
CEDARHURST NO FEE Pr ivate Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For O n e B e d r o o m W h e n Ava i l a bl e. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978 LYNBROOK: 3 BR, 1 Bath, First Floor, Private Entrance, 2 Parking Spots, No Smoking/ Pets. Includes Cable/ Wi-Fi, $3,500. 347-909-2153
Cemetery Plots BETH DAVID CEMETERY: Elmont, NY. 3 Plots. Separate Or All Together. Graves 18, 25, and 32. Purchase Separate $5000; Purchase Together $14000. Negotiable. Call 845-641-7316
Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-569-4000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
HERALD
My building’s in need of a tenant
Homes
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HOME Of tHE WEEK
• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
Q. .I have a building that has been unoccupied for three years. I bought it because it was going to have a long-term tenant. They backed out, so I need to get the building rented. I have a prospect who wants me to get the permits for their animal grooming service operation, with possible overnight boarding. They’re only interested if the permits are ready to go. What is the minimum I can do to get the permit and get the tenant into the building to rent? The building is 8,000 square feet, and the tenant only needs about 5,000. Do I need more permits for another tenant, and can I get them both together to save money? I need to do this quickly, or the tenant will go elsewhere. What can be done?
Rockville Centre
Your Dream Home Awaits
W
elcome to this renovated 4 bedroom and 3 full bath Colonial situated on .34 acre lot with detached 2 car garage loft and a long private multi vehicle driveway This spacious home has 3 levels plus a basement. There is a bright enclosed front porch. Formal dining room with a sitting area, big EIK, quartz countertops and SS appliances, large living room, 2nd full bath, a huge den with vaulted ceilings plus sliders to a private deck overlooking your backyard oasis.1st floor has a master en-suite with full bath. Possible M/D with proper permits. On the 2nd floor you will find 3 to 4 bedrooms and a full bathroom. The 3rd level has a large finished attic. Close to everything. Award winning Rockville Centre school district! RVC has its own cost effective electric and water company and more. Call for a private showing! Asking $889,999
Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299
M
Results that Move You
OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 1/14/24 EaST ROCKaWay
1 Newkirk Ave, 12-1:30, FIRST SHOW! Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2.5 Bth SH Col on Beautiful St. in SD#20 (Lynbrook). New Quartz/Wood EIK w/ St Steel Appl, LR/Fpl, DR, Den & New Powder Rm. Spectacular Primary Ste with Hi Ceiling/Rad Htd Bth/2 WICs. Fin Bsmt w/Playrm & Office. Newly Lanscaped Yard w/Pavered Patio/ Stone Fire Pit. Att Gar/2 Car Drvwy. Must See! .................................................$936,000 45 Judith Ct, 2-3:30, Immaculate & Well Maintained 3300 Sq Ft, 6 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch on Beautiful Quiet St in SD#20 (Waverly Pk Elem). LR/ Fpl, FDR, Huge Family Rm & EIK. Att Gar. Private Yd ....................................................... REDUCED!! $939,000
1240700
HEWLETT Bay PaRK
CEdaRHURST
332B Peninsula Blvd, BA, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth Coop Townhouse. LR, DR, Gran/Wood Kit w/ Stainless Steel Appl. Trex Deck Off LR.Primary Ste Features Updtd Bth & WIC. Att Gar Plus 1 Pkg Spot incl in Maintenance. W/D. Pull Down Attic. SD#15. Convenient to Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship ...........$449,000
How’s the market?? Please contact me for your free market report and personalized service!
“Leading Edge Award Winner” Robin Reiss
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Cell: 516.510.6484 Office: 516.623.4500 Robin.Reiss@elliman.com
1243267
HEWLETT
1554 Moffitt Ave, BA, WHOLE HOUSE RENTAL! Updtd 4 BR Col w/ 2 New Bths. LR/ Fpl, FDR, Den & Kit. Main Flr BR/Off. Newer W/D, Ductless AC Units, Gas Ht. 2 Car Det Gar. Enclosed Yard. SD#14 (Hewlett-Wood). Great Location Near Schools, Park, LIRR & Houses of Worship ............................................................................. $4500 per month 1534 Broadway #213, BA, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! Move Right Into This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Spacious Corner Unit. Updtd Gran/Wood Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Gar Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship..............................................................................................$649,000 1390 Broadway #117, BA, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Beautiful JR 4 Coop Apt in Luxurious Hewlett Townhouse. Huge LR & DR, Ren Kit w/ Wood Cab/ Quartz Counters/ Stainless St Appl. Encl Terrace Overlooking Garden can Be Rm. Spac BR w/ En Suite Bath. W/D in Apt. 24 Hr Drmn, Elevator, Valet Pkg, Priv Storage. Redone IG Comm Pool. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship ......$359,000 1267 Peninsula Blvd, BA, 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14 (Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck. HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship .....................$599,000
This Robin won’t rest until you are in your new NEST!
A BETTER WAY TO BUY AND SELL REAL ESTATE! “Call A Realtor With Proven Experience!” Rob Kolb Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Tripodi Shemtov Team
Douglas Elliman Real Estate
30 West Park Ave | Long Beach, NY 11561 Cell: 516-314-1728 • Office: 516-432-3400 Rob.Kolb@elliman.com • Elliman.com/RobKolb
One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country.
1239392
190 Meadowview Ave, BA, Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14. Near All. Must See This Unique Home! ................................................. REDUCED $2,700,000
A. Time and cost are a problem. You probably won’t get results in under seven months to a year. Building plans take time, and must involve the tenant’s specific input as to where walls, plumbing and equipment will be located. Most people treat plans like they’re just a suggestion, to be changed later, but the reality is that the onte eeper plans need to show very specifically what will be done. Those plans have to be filed with all the required application papers and a property survey with the building department, which will then put the plans in a lineup with all the other plan folders that come in that will eventually be reviewed. Depending on the size of the community, this process can take three to four months before you first hear back that your plans are objected to or rejected. Once you learn that you can’t be approved with a straight-away permit, you may request that the file go into a request for varying from the zoning code, since most municipalities do not allow overnight animal boarding. This is the zoning variance request. A zoning case is separate from a building permit, and requires the preparation of a map of the property, along with neighboring properties — sometimes, depending on the community, as far away as 600 feet. For commercial use, some municipalities require that the map show the accurate outline of all buildings and names of tenants and owners on each property, prepared by a licensed land surveyor. If the plans you submit on behalf of your potential tenant do not reflect the true layout of the shapes and sizes of rooms, the location of equipment, etc., you may find yourself applying again to repeat the process when a building inspector sees that the plans were not followed, so you and the tenant have to treat this process seriously. Also, if the building is not yet outfitted with sprinklers, plan on another seven- to 10-month process with the fire marshal. It can take less, but this is a common time frame. This process cannot be rushed, and isn’t like getting a driver’s license. Each tenant’s plans will need to be filed for separately. Good luck!
Ask The Architect
Anna Aprea Licensed RE Associate Broker CELL: 646-279-4781 Stacy Fredricks Coldwell Banker American Homes Licensed Real Estate Salesperson CELL: 516-859-3794 Coldwell Banker American Homes 493 Atlantic Ave Oceanside, NY 11572 1240928
January 11, 2024 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON
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© 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, architect.
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Market Place • •
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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
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Answers to todAy’s puzzle
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he United States is at a crossroads. For too long, leaders at all levels of government have turned a blind eye to the crisis unfolding on our southern border. Indeed, that porous border has fueled both a national drug crisis and a migrant crisis, which threaten to undermine the safety of Americans in communities across the country. The Biden administration has so far failed to articulate a clear plan to end these crises by securing the borAnTHonY der, and the cabiD’EsposiTo net official directly charged with implementing a border security plan, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, has routinely downplayed the problems that exist there. For failing to uphold his oath to safeguard the homeland by securing our borders, I have called on Mayorkas to resign. In the absence of a resignation, I believe he should be impeached. As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I will work to build a case for
impeaching Mayorkas in a transparent manner via the committee’s information-gathering process. Under Mayorkas’ leadership, the Department of Homeland Security has lost operational control of the border — a fact backed up by congressional testimony last March by Raul Ortiz, then the chief of the United States Border Patrol. This loss of control coincides with the fact that Border Patrol personnel have encountered over 8.1 million migrants since the beginning of the Biden administration, and an additional 1.7 million managed to evade overstretched law enforcement and slip into the country, according to sources in United States Customs and Border Protection. With the risk of terrorism at dangerously high levels and public safety deteriorating across the country, having 1.7 million “gotaways” roaming the streets of America is a frightening prospect. Our porous border is negatively impacting the quality of life of millions of Americans. On Jan. 2, New York City Mayor Eric Adams
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announced that there were “a number of migrants who have committed crimes,” including some who had participated in a “robbery pattern.” More than 160,000 migrants have recently entered New York City, and they have elicited proclamations from Adams that the Big Apple may slash municipal services by up to 15 percent to pay for migrant services. What’s more, since the beginning of fiscal year 2021, 294 people on the United State’s terror watch list have been arrested trying to enter the country — but how many on that list evaded capture because they were among the 1.7 million “gotaways” and are currently in New York? Thanks to Mayorkas’ inability to stem the flow of migrants by securing the border, New Yorkers are facing additional public safety threats and reduced municipal services. In addition to serving as a pathway for migrants, the southern border has also been used as a gateway for drug smugglers to illegally import their dangerous narcotics into the United States.
nder his leadership, the department has lost control of the southern border.
Last fiscal year, Customs and Border Protection seized 27,293 pounds of poisonous fentanyl coming across the southwestern border, which is enough to kill around 6 billion — that’s billion — people. Regretfully, due to overstretched resources, CBP is able to seize only 5 to 10 percent of the fentanyl smuggled across the border, with the remainder making it to the streets of American cities and contributing to the 111,355 American overdose deaths that were recorded in the 12-month period ending in April 2023. Americans are being killed because of the porous southern border. I was proud to help pass H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act of 2023, in the House of Representatives, which would fully fund CBP and make critical investments in border security infrastructure. While I continue to advocate for my colleagues in the Senate to pass the sweeping border security plan outlined in H.R. 2, I will work to hold Mayorkas accountable for this crisis of his own creation — and there is no better way to hold him accountable than to fire him. Mayorkas must be impeached. Anthony D’Esposito represents the 4th Congressional District.
Trickle of funding reveals Blakeman’s skewed priorities
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o date, Nassau County has received approximately $385 million in coronavirus relief money through the federal American Rescue Plan Act, and $85.2 million more in settlements from opioid manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Of that combined sum of approximately $470 million, Nassau County has to date only committed roughly $86 million and dispersed $7 million. While many DELiA have wondered DeRiGGi-WHiTTon about the almost palpable lack of urgency from the administration of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in getting these life-enriching and lifesaving funds into the community, a recent budget hearing potentially exposed the callous reason his administration continues to sit on
these funds. During the hearing, on Oct. 10, administration officials confirmed that the roughly $378 million in remaining proceeds from the ARPA funding and various opioid settlements is being used to bolster Nassau County’s reserves, which in turn are helping to boost and maintain the county’s credit score with rating agencies such as Moody’s, S&P Global and Fitch Ratings. Furthermore, every penny in interest that has and may be generated in the future by holding the opioid funds back was earned at the expense of someone who is struggling with the disease of addiction. All of this is simply appalling. It is only marginally less infuriating when you consider that Nassau’s ARPA funds could be applied to fighting hunger, combating homelessness, bolstering mental health programs,
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supporting small businesses, enhancing youth services and so much more. For months, my colleagues in the County Legislature’s minority caucus and I have been advocating for approximately $12 million in itemized ARPA requests to help support organizations that provide vital community services. While those requests have languished in the Blakeman administration, the transfer of $10 million in Covid relief funds, done under the facade of “tourism” to fund lavish galas, parades and marketing to celebrate the county’s 125th anniversary this year, flew through the Legislature on Dec. 18. The minority caucus is unified in its outrage and opposition to this latest lapse in judgment, which serves as yet another example of how Blakeman and his administration are badly out of touch with the needs
ovid and opioid funds should trump the county’s 125th anniversary.
of our constituents. Federal Covid relief and opioid settlement funds were not meant to gather dust on ledger sheets, serve as an investment strategy, be used to butter up ratings agencies, or soothe the self-inflating ego of an elected official. They were meant to get into the community so they could be used to address the challenges our constituents are grappling with. With so many people struggling, and so many facing the unthinkable crisis of losing family members to addiction, spending $10 million on publicizing an anniversary celebration before releasing these opioid settlement funds is unconscionable. Let’s hope that in the new year, these lifesaving funds, as well as our federal relief funds, reach their intended destinations — at least as swiftly as Blakeman’s celebration funds did. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District, and is the Legislature’s minority leaderelect.
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
We must impeach Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas
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Decision 2024: a call for informed voters
n the weeks and months leading up to this year’s elections in November, it is pivotal that Long Island voters stay engaged with everything that’s going on in New York state and the nation. In 10 months, scores of millions of voters will flock to polling booths across the country to cast their ballots for state offices, Congress and the White House. Making informed decisions begins with early engagement. In an era when information is constantly being filtered through a wide variety of media, it is imperative that voters pay attention to political developments and take the time to understand the competing candidates, their policies, and the evolving dynamics in the political arena. Informed voting is the bedrock of a healthy democracy. It ensures that those who are elected fulfill their promises and legislate based on the values and needs of the people they serve. Long Island, much like the rest of the country, needs leaders who genuinely understand the challenges faced by their communities, and who possess the foresight to make difficult choices. Critical issues that touch the lives of every resident will undoubtedly shape this year’s elections. From health care, to climate change, to economic development and social justice, understanding where candidates stand is paramount.
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Letters Those college presidents shouldn’t get all blame To the Editor: Re Alan J. Singer’s op-ed last month, “Three college heads who lacked street smarts”: Professor Singer makes the point that the university presidents grilled by right-wing U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York at last month’s congressional hearing suffered from a lack of “street smarts,” leading to the resignation of one (now two) of them. While that may be true, the pointed questioning and harassment of the university presidents at those hearings deserves condemnation. House members engaging in McCarthy-era tactics in those Education Committee hearings does not bode well for democracy. If anyone should resign, it should be Stefanik. Apparently the three presidents failed to respond adequately to hypothetical verbal support of genocide by students at their universities. There is
Don’t wait until you step inside the voting booth to make decisions you hope align with your own priorities. Stay informed by keeping up with reputable news outlets — such as your local newspaper. With so many talking heads touting their agendas on cable news outlets, it’s important to keep your ear close to the ground and pay attention to what is going on in your own neighborhood. Bias and misinformation erode the foundation of democracy, sowing seeds of doubt by distorting facts and adding a political slant. News organizations have a responsibility to offer accurate information, but there are times when information can be misused to skew opinions. So, know where the information is coming from. Your local paper is the perfect place to read all about what’s happening. Not that you can’t turn on the television, but broadcast media tend to focus on national issues and how candidates plan to address foreign policy, spending, energy and immigration. All of that is crucially important — especially as it relates to the presidential race — but the issues at the forefront of local elections are just as important, if not more so. Remember, every decision made at the local level will shape the fabric of the community. It’s impossible to miss news of a spe-
cial election happening right in our backyard, even if you don’t live on the North Shore. On Feb. 13, voters will decide who will replace the disgraced former congressman George Santos in the 3rd Congressional District. Voters will choose between former U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi — a Democrat from Glen Cove who held this seat before making an unsuccessful run for governor in 2022 — and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip, of Great Neck, who is representing Republicans. As for those who live on the South Shore, the June primary will be just as important to Democrats, at least, looking to reclaim the seat in the 4th Congressional District now occupied by U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, a Republican who handily won the 2022 race against Laura Gillen. Gillen is back for another try, but would need to beat State Sen. Kevin Thomas to represent Democrats once again in November. Regardless of the outcomes, the decisions made in this fall’s elections will reverberate for many years to come. That is why all of us must seize the opportunity to shape our future by gathering all the information we can about the candidates who are running. The responsibility to contribute lies with every voter. Let us not merely stand witness. Let us take an active role and help shape the future for the better.
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hen I was in prison for my nonviolent anti-nuclear actions, one of my disciplines was to write something for publication every day — a letter to the editor, an opinion piece, a book review, or even mediocre poetry. One hundred percent of my writing was in opposition to nuclear weapons. I couldn’t vote while I was incarcerated. But I refused to stop participating in our democracy. If I could persuade even two people to care enough to vote who had not been voting even tom H. though they were able to, and if HastinGs they voted for a candidate who was opposed to nuclear weapons, I felt like this was how I was still part of the democracy of my country. Who are the people who couldn’t or can’t vote but who are yet a part of how
our democracy functions? Here’s an incomplete list, but one that I hope gives some hope to those who wish they could vote in our American elections: ■ Students who survived the horrific 2018 Valentine’s Day mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school in Parkland, Florida, were too young to vote, and yet started a movement that built enough pressure on politicians to achieve some legislative victories.
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ive minutes of action per day by millions of us can be its best protection.
■ Greta Thunberg is a Swedish girl who began the climate strike movement that prompted governments far beyond her own to act. She was too young to vote, not a citizen of anyplace except Sweden, and yet she profoundly participated in democracies from the United Kingdom to New Zealand to the United States and beyond, so influential that she was Time magazine’s Person of the Year in 2019. ■ In the spring of 1963, more than 1,000
Letters no evidence that such a call for genocide against Jews has been expressed on college campuses. Rather, it is a fantasy of Stefanik and other culture war fanatics. Students and faculty at universities have courageously confronted unjustified censure and bullying in response to a very real catastrophe — a relentless ethnic cleansing and genocidal war being waged by the Israeli government, supported by our own, against the Palestinian people of Gaza. JIM BROWN Secretary, Green Party of Nassau County
Congestion pricing would benefit everyone To the Editor: It’s not surprising that Long Island lawmakers are pandering to the tiny minority of their constituents who would actually pay the $15 congestion fee for driving into Manhattan south of 60th Street. But it is disappointing that these officials fail to see beyond the narrow interests of this small group and recognize the big and broad benefits of congestion pricing, including for hundreds of thousands of Long Islanders. How could those who took part in the Dec. 11 anti-congestion-pricing news conference not notice the irony of holding their kvetch fest at the Long Island Rail Road’s Mineola station? Part of the $15 billion projected to be raised annually by the added fees will go toward improving
students skipped school in Birmingham, Alabama, to protest segregation and the anti-democratic Jim Crow voter suppression that Black people endured in Alabama. They couldn’t vote because they were too young, and their parents were routinely stopped from voting because they were black. Yet their campaign, called the Children’s Crusade, was instrumental in inspiring mass support across the U.S. for both the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
LIRR service for the 200,000 Long Islanders who take trains into the city on an average weekday. Besides making rail commuting more comfortable and convenient, congestion pricing will reduce air pollution and the risk of car crashes in Manhattan. And those positives shouldn’t be ignored by Long Island representatives. Why do they not respect the decision of their fellow lawmakers to better safeguard public health and safety in the city? In addition, Long Island isn’t an island, economically. More than 300,000 of its residents earn their living from Manhattan-based businesses, according to the Regional Plan Association. These commuters make an average annual salary of $124,000, amounting to total income of $38 billion that’s spent largely on Long Island. Politicians such as State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick oppose congestion pricing partly on the grounds that it is a “tax” unfairly imposed on Long Islanders, as she claimed in a Herald op-ed last month, “Congestion pricing isn’t really about congestion.” That’s a misuse of the term. Taxes are required payments; congestion pricing is an optional fee. No one is being forced to drive a car into Manhattan. The $15 fee — and the additional parking and gasoline costs — can be avoided by riding the LIRR. Encouraging more Long Islanders to take the train is, after all, a key objective of congestion pricing. KEVIN J. KELLEY Atlantic Beach
■ In Liberia, dictator Charles Taylor rigged “elections” and maintained his iron grip on power, so there was no democracy in which to participate during his rule, which featured a particularly brutal 14-year civil war with child soldiers on both sides, rape and massacres. Liberian women united in nonviolent resistance, rose up and stopped the war, and created a new — real — democracy. The countless stories of disenfran-
chised people around the world making a difference in their democracies — or helping create democracy where there had been none — can help motivate us when we feel like it’s hopeless. It is never impossible to participate in democracy. People like Rosa Parks, John Lewis, Alice Paul and so many more are still influential, even though they’ve passed on. This is your democracy, even if you are 15, even if you are undocumented, even if you are incarcerated. We all own it, and we all can make it stronger and more responsive to what we need, to justice, to a world fit for life. Five minutes of action per day by millions of us can be the best protection of our hope, our rights, our freedom from fear, our freedom to love and live. Democracy is way deeper than one vote every few years. It will live or die depending on our commitment to it. We are powerful, every one of us. Dr. Tom H. Hastings is the coordinator of the undergraduate program in conflict resolution at Portland State University and the senior editor of the Oregon Peace Institute’s PeaceVoice.
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On Mill Pond - Wantagh
UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — January 11, 2024
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We must act like we own this democracy
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