HERALD UNIONDALE
Kelsie Radziski/Herald Mary Bediako, left, was sworn in by District Attorney Lawanda Williams for another term as president of the Uniondale Board of Education on July 2.
Board of Education trustees reflect on the past and plan for the future
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
After what officials described as a highly successful school year, the Uniondale Board of Education reorganized last week, and discussed summer programs and plans for the 2024-25 academic year.
At the July 2 meeting at Walnut Street Elementary School, Mary Bediako was reelected as board president, a position she has held for the past two years. A retired educator, she taught math before becoming a school administrator. Bediako has lived in Uniondale for 39 years.
“We completed 2023-24 with a bang,” she said. “Let’s start the new one with a greater one so that this next year will be even better than the last one.”
Natalie Longsworth was re-elected as board vice president. She has been a labor
and employment professional for New York City since 2004, and she lives in Hempstead Village, where she volunteers for the Fire Department and advocates for the underserved and underrepresented.
“I’m just looking forward to working collaboratively with our team to ensure the continued success and viability of our district,” Longsworth said.
Charmise Desiré was sworn in for her sixth year on the school board. Earlier this year, she began her first term as the Nassau County representative for the New York State School Boards Association. Desiré remains an active member of the Uniondale community, where she has lived since 2000.
“There are challenges here and there that none of us can typically avoid in life, but the key thing, I think, is to join forces, buckle down, and just get stuff done rather
Fresh faces in roles as school leaders
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
The Uniondale School District has appointed four new leaders for the upcoming 2024-25 academic year.
“We are excited to welcome these exceptional leaders to their new roles within the Uniondale School District,” Monique Darrisaw-Akil, district superintendent, said in the news release.
“Each brings unique skills and experiences that will provide an outstanding education for our students.
We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our schools and our community.”
TUniondale High School principal to become the new principal at Lawrence Road Middle School.
here is no greater purpose than to serve your community, and now that I’m a part of the Uniondale community, I plan to put all my efforts during my time here to that cause.
MARTIn DARConTE III
Mark McCaw, who has been a member of the district community since starting as a fourth-grader at California Avenue Elementary School, will move from his position as
Uniondale facilities director
McCaw also attended Turtle Hook Middle School, and graduated from the high school in 1991. He has worked in the district for over 15 years, starting as a high school social studies teacher for five years, and then moving to alternative high school principal, assistant principal, and principal of Uniondale High.
“One of the reasons I always wanted to come back to Uniondale is because it’s my hometown,” he said. “The culture at Uniondale is beyond special, and I’m always proud to be U Strong. I look forward to upholding an environment where all young scholars feel valued and inspired to
ContinUED on pAgE 4
Towns threaten FAA with lawsuit over noise
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Standing in front of a Floral Park home and alongside Nassau County officials on July 3, Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin announced a joint petition against the Federal Aviation Administration on behalf of residents living near airports who constantly contend with the noise of low-flying planes and air pollution.
With both Kennedy and LaGuardia airports abutting residential neighborhoods, the air traffic has been a longstanding headache for homeowners.
The Towns of Hempstead and North Hempstead and county officials have filed a petition urging the FAA to study and explore alternative air routes. If the agency doesn’t respond to the petition within 90 days, the group, led by Clavin and North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jen DeSena, plans to file suit against it.
“Every 90 seconds, we get the pleasure of having planes flying anywhere from 3,000 to 2,000 feet over our heads,” Clavin said. “The FAA has taken the towns of North Hempstead and Hempstead for granted. Over a million residents are suffering the burden of constant flights coming over the area.”
The problem, according to Clavin and DeSena, is not just noise, but also the significant health risks posed by constant air traffic. Clavin detailed how
Kepherd Daniel/Herald
State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick joined county officials to announce a petition and potential lawsuit against the Federal Aviation Administration for excessive noise pollution at nearby airports.
low-flying planes contribute to increased levels of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and sulfur dioxide in the air in communities near the airports.
He also cited studies showing a 50 percent increase in flights since 2017, and pointed out that the FAA has not conducted the necessary environmental reviews mandated by the National Defense Authorization Act.
County officials retained legal counsel to draft a petition to the FAA, demanding compliance with existing regulations and a thorough environ -
mental review. Melville attorney Nick Rigano is spearheading the legal effort.
In a statement in response to the news conference, the FAA said, “Addressing this concern requires collaboration among the FAA, air carriers, airports, aircraft manufacturers, research universities, local communities and elected officials. If a community is concerned about aircraft noise, the best course of action is to contact their local aviation community roundtable or airport operator. The FAA can then work with airport operators to deter-
mine if the aircraft noise can be mitigated through changes in air traffic procedures.”
At the gathering, U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito highlighted his legislative efforts to address the issue, including co-sponsoring bills aimed at mitigating air traffic noise and pollution.
“The FAA has been ignoring community concerns for far too long,” D’Esposito said. “We are working on legislative solutions, but the FAA has been non-responsive on the federal level as well. We need change, and we need it now.”
Floral Park resident Don Monroe, whose home was the site of the news conference, noted one way in which the noise of air traffic regularly impacts his life. “Sometimes I have to stop mid-conversation because the planes are so loud,” Monroe said.
While the issue is far from a new one, the officials’ message is clear: The time for patience has passed. With the TSA estimating over 315,000 noise complaints from residents of Hempstead and North Hempstead who live beneath JFK’s Flight Path 22 this year alone, those residents and officials are more than ready to demand immediate action.
“People expect this when they live in an area where they are near an airport, but not to this extent,” Clavin said. “The FAA must follow the rules and regulations. Enough is enough.”
Empire State Fair lights up the summer
The Empire State Fair has returned to Nassau Coliseum for summer 2024! The fair is running through July 14, on weekdays from 5 to 11 p.m. and weekends from noon to 11 p.m.
The new attraction for this year is the Anastasini Circus, where fairgoers can watch juggling, comedy, and more. The Pirates of the Caribbean Thrill Show, a petting zoo, and other rides and attractions are also available for all ages.
General admission tickets are $10, and kids under 36 inches are free with a paying adult. Wristbands for ride access start at $40.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Parking is free, and all shows are free with admission ticket.
— Kelsie Radziski
Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Dorothy Feinberg, 5, smiles with her face paint and her parents, Rose and Josh, at the Empire State Fair on July 6.
Olivia Ocasio, 5, rides a pink motorcycle at the fair.
The team huddles together to strategize for the second half of the game.
Flying high on the swings, one of the many rides at the Empire State Fair.
Big Bee, the transforming robot car, changes from a car to a tall robot.
Graduation rates, grades and participation soar
achieve their very best,” McCaw added.
Uniondale High’s new principal will be Shawn Brown, the former principal of EBC High School for Public Service in Brooklyn. Brown has also been an adjunct professor at Brooklyn College and a Mandel Washington mentor for Rutgers University’s Global Program.
He has a doctoral degree in urban education from the City University of New York Graduate Center and a master’s degree in urban education, educational leadership, and general/special education.
“I am honored to be Uniondale High School’s new principal. It is a privilege to serve such a beautiful and close-knit community,” Brown said. “I am confident that as a team, we can empower Uniondale’s scholars to reach their full potential.”
Samantha Dias is the new principal of Grand Avenue Elementary School. She is the former coordinator of teaching and learning in the Rockville Centre School District, and she also served as the assistant principal of California Avenue Elementary School for six years.
Dias holds a doctoral degree in interdisciplinary educational studies from Long Island University and a master of arts in bilingual education from Hofstra University. She is passionate about
elementary education, having spent most of her career as a bilingual educator in the Uniondale district.
“In my new role, my goal is to nurture an inclusive, innovative and positive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered to excel,” Dias said.
Martin DarConte III has been named the new district director of facilities. He brings 13 years of experience in facilities management from his positions as senior construction manager
New York’s New Transfer on Death Deed (TOD)
Effective July 19, 2024, New York will permit the use of a transfer on death deed (TOD). The main benefit of the new law will be that property deeds with heirs named on them will not have to pass through the probate process. The heirs do not have to sign and the designations may be revoked by filing a new deed.
While avoiding probate was formerly the holy grail of estate planning, today it is more of a holy trinity (1) avoiding probate, (2) keeping assets in the bloodline, and (3) protecting assets from long-term care costs. The TOD deed only accomplishes the first of those. In addition, while the TOD works legally, it does not always work socially.
The main drawback to the TOD deed is that there is no one in charge. The heirs may not get along with each other. One may want to sell the property, another may want to keep it. They may disagree as to who to list it for sale with, how much to ask for the property or which offers to accept or reject. It’s often a case of too many cooks. With a trust, one or two persons who you believe
to be most capable are in charge and, while they must keep other heirs informed, they do not need their permission to make these decisions.
If any child predeceases, and their share is left to minor children, then a courtappointed legal guardian will be required to protect the minor’s interests, which may delay a sale of the property by many months. Since the age of majority is eighteen years, the legal guardian is required to turn the money over to them at that young age. A trust avoids guardianship proceedings for minor heirs, puts the person you choose in charge of the funds and states the age at which you want them to receive the money.
Finally, trusts can provide for the trustee to hold back and manage funds for a beneficiary (1) going through a divorce, (2) facing financial difficulties, or (3) unable to own property due to disability.
While the new TOD deed will have its place in the lawyer’s toolkit, it is a blunt instrument which may, absent wise counsel, do more harm than good.
LAW FIRM
& Estates • Wills & Probate • Medicaid FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave.,
at School Construction Consultants Inc., as well as six years as supervisor of operations and maintenance for the Farmingdale School District.
DarConte’s landscaping plans include adding plants and flowers on school grounds, as well as seating areas so students and staff can enjoy the views. He also wants to add air conditioning to classrooms “for increased ability to learn.”
DarConte said he wants to cultivate an environment that inspires students
and faculty to enjoy their time at school.
“My goal is to transform the Uniondale School District facilities into a cutting-edge environment that is conducive for learning, growing and making lasting memories for students, community members and staff alike,” he said. “There is no greater purpose than to serve your community, and now that I’m a part of the Uniondale community, I plan to put all my efforts during my time here to that cause.”
News brief
Have a safe summer with these safety tips
For grilling, keep your grill clean by removing grease from the grills and putting it in trays below the grill. Place the grill at least six feet away from the home, deck railings, and under eaves and overhanging tree branches.
Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the grilling area. If using charcoal, only use charcoal starter fluid and never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Never leave your grill unattended when in use.
For swimming pool chemical safety, store pool chemicals in compliance with local or state building and fire codes. Store pool chemicals below 95 degrees and as recommended by the manufacturer.
Regarding fireworks safety, note that fireworks are illegal in New York. Public fireworks displays produced by professional pyrotechnic companies are the best and safest way to enjoy these dazzling displays.
— Jordan Vallone
Mark Mccaw Shawn Brown SaMantha DiaS Martin Darconte iii
School board trustees are already looking ahead to fall
than staying stuck in things,” she said. Also reappointed to the board were Susan Camille Trenkle, as district clerk, Clarence Little, as district treasurer, Paul Meittinis, as deputy treasurer, Maribel Hernandez, as purchasing agent, and Lenore Pringle, as deputy purchasing agent.
Superintendent Monique DarrisawAkil presented a report on the successes of the just-completed academic year.
“Before we get to planning and thinking about what’s next, I think it’s a great opportunity for us to reflect on what has already happened,” she said.
According to the district’s preliminary data, the 2023-24 graduation rate prior to summer school graduations was over 88 percent, nearly 4 percentage points higher than the previous year’s 84.8, percent, which included summer graduations. The graduation rate for students for whom English is a second language was 54 percent this year, up 12 percentage points from last year. Uniondale High School presented 512 students with diplomas on June 29.
The State Education Department granted Regents waivers as a relief measure for those who had their learning impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, but Akil said last year was the final academic year the waivers were offered.
Because of that, this year’s elevated graduation rate is based solely on course credit accumulation and the passing of the required minimum of five Regents exams, Akil said.
“We definitely want to recognize our high school administrative team, our counselors and our teachers, and of course our students for putting the work in,” she said.
Additionally, participation rates and grades have increased across the board this past school year. There has been an overall increase in attendance and a decline in chronic absenteeism, according to Akil, and more students have been attending school programs, such as Project Excel, the grant-funded elementary afterschool program.
There have also been higher test scores in Algebra 1, a high school level math course taken in middle school, and Algebra 2, a challenging high school math course, she noted.
Akil said, the district has been vocal about its goal of increased Advanced Placement participation rates. This school year, 521 students took at least one AP class, a jump from compared to last year’s 339 students.
“I think that the board should be very proud of the work that’s been happening in the school district, but also for the bold vision they have set,” Akil said.
Looking ahead to the 2024-25 school year, Akil said she is looking forward to all the new opportunities the district is offering, including an AP preparation summer course with peer tutoring, new administrators, and an expansion of the autism program with new classes being offered.
“We talk about equity, and all means all,” she said. Continued from page 1
Kelsie Radziski/Herald
Lawanda Williams swore in natalie Longsworth for another term as vice president of the uniondale Board of education.
Is AI on its way to taking over education?
School districts explore methods of preventing artificial intelligence from compromising learning
By Charles Shaw, Parker Schug & Brendan Carpenter
Continuing a series exploring the presence of artificial intelligence in our schools — and, over time, in society as a whole. Thoughts? Questions? Ideas? Email us at execeditor@liherald.com.
Artificial intelligence is changing the education system in almost every way, but what about students who are trying to use it to get an unfair advantage, or to skip work that would otherwise help them learn?
In these uncertain times, school districts throughout Nassau County are looking for answers to prevent AI’s overreach in the classroom. In the Wantagh School District, an Artificial Intelligence Committee, composed of administrators, principals, directors and teachers, was formed last year to initially focus on understanding AI, but developed into discussing how it can be used responsibly.
Carol-Ann Winans, a committee member and the district’s executive director of curriculum and instruction, said that it is focused on making sure students aren’t relying on AI technology to think for them, while at the same time using it as a tool to enhance the way they learn.
knowledge is key in preventing overreach. James Widmer, the school’s deputy superintendent and chief operating officer, said that several staff groups have been given training on how AI operates and the range of tools that are available.
“Generative AI has the potential to enhance teaching, learning and operations greatly,” Widmer wrote in a statement. “At Nassau BOCES, we have been closely monitoring its evolution and adding uses as it makes sense.”
“Our goal,” he added, “is to implement generative AI solutions that enhance our ability to support our component school districts, fostering environments where every student can maximize their potential.”
“I would want to help the students use this tool to further their learning,” Winans said, “and not turn it into something that becomes a shortcut.”
When AI tools such as ChatGPT, began making headlines, Winans saw it as a way to help organize data and find original sources of information, but discussions in the committee opened her eyes to the challenges it could pose in the area of writing. Concerns that students might no longer value the understanding of writing structure, vocabulary and thought because of AI prompted the committee to craft instructions for the students.
At first, some teachers were hesitant to discuss AI, according to Winans, but the committee realized that it was unavoidable, because colleges, such as Stony Brook University, are creating policies on how students can use it appropriately in classrooms.
“If I’m preparing my child for an essay, if they’re going to be able to use AI tools in college and I’m not allowing them to use it in high school, am I truly preparing them for the world that they’re going in?” she said.
According to Winans, educators must have clear instructions on when AI can be used in completing assignments. “We do need to provide explicit instructions to the students,” she said, “so that they know their expectations.”
At Nassau BOCES, in Garden City,
Kenneth Kroog, assistant director for special education at Nassau BOCES, said in a statement that AI’s purpose there is still evolving. “We are exploring the possibility of acquiring an AI tool to assist teachers with lesson planning, differentiating instruction, and personalizing learning content and goals,” Kroog said.
The Wantagh committee, Winans said, is now in the process of crafting a policy for students next year, which will address the appropriate use of AI tools.
Dependence on technology, instead of a student’s thinking, and protection of intellectual property are two of the committee’s biggest concerns, she said, adding that most AI generators, such as ChatGPT, are not compliant with state education law, and therefore are not allowed in classrooms. But there is little to stop students from accessing AI tools elsewhere.
“We just can’t ignore that the students may or may not be using these tools at home,” Winans said.
Why ChatGPT is not compliant with state education law
According to the State Education Department, ChatGPT does not comply with Education Law 2-D, which requires schools that use technology tools that will have access to students’ personal information, such as their names, they must have a data-protection agreement, which ChatGPT is unwilling to do with any school, according to the department. So the department does not recommend students’ use of it in schools.
Compliance also requires that information such as the names of students’ parents or other family members, home addresses, Social Security numbers, student numbers and biometric records be kept private.
“There are a host of issues in ChatGPT’s terms of service that would not allow New York students to use the
product, including the ability to use student data for advertising purposes,” the education department said in a statement.
Additionally, ChatGPT’s terms of service state that users must be at least 13, and have parental consent if they are under 18. Thus, at minimum, the state department says that schools cannot use the product without written parental consent and knowledge.
“Generative AI products have been created with schools, and privacy, in mind,” the department statement added. “Schools should only use those products — and only after entering into a data protection agreement with the vendor.”
At BOCES, privacy is monitored, Widmer said. “We are also keenly aware of data privacy, and are ensuring that any tools we use are in compliance with state and federal laws,” he said.
Jennifer Gallagher, superintendent of Long Beach Public Schools, said ChatGPT is blocked in the schools.
“There are some legal privacy issues with the platform that make it difficult for schools to allow students to access it,” Gallagher said.
Newer software, called Magic School AI, was made specifically for educators to use, and is utilized by over 3,000 districts and schools worldwide. Another recent launched is MagicStudent, in the hope of building students’ AI literacy
and bringing responsible AI use to schools. Canva also has compliant AI software.
“Because ChatGPT is not (education law) compliant, many districts do not have access to (it) during the school day,” Long Beach’s director of literacy, Dr. Lorraine Radice, said. “There are other platforms like Magic School, and Canva has an artificial intelligence component that I introduced to teachers this year in the fall, that is compliant. So one of the hurdles that educators, and especially those folks in the technology department, (have) is to make sure that we can use some of these tools in our schools, and to protect the privacy of students and adults that work in the district.”
Using AI as a tool, and not as a shortcut Winans said that ideas have been bounced around the Wantagh committee to assess how students can approach AI, which value original thought, protection of students’ intellectual property, and the need to maximize opportunities and improve learning in an ever-changing technological world. She added that the district acknowledges that AI presents both challenges and opportunities.
“If you tell a child not to do something, they’re probably going to do it anyway,” Winans said, “so how can we
Parker Schug/Herald Declan Schug, a Bayport-Blue Point High School sophomore, uses artificial intelligence and other tools, such as an Apple Watch, a calculator and a laptop, while working on a homework assignment.
State education law will affect use of AI
maximize the opportunity to use this new technology to improve the learning process?”
At an East Meadow School District meeting last November, Jim Mendonis, the district’s director of social studies and 21st century learning, gave a presentation on AI in Education, which discussed how it works and how its misuse can be prevented in classrooms.
Mendonis spoke of activities in the class that help teachers see their students’ thinking process, such as discussions, debates, collaborative work and other activities that do not require plugging into a device or writing a paper.
He added that writing is still critical for education, but students need to know how to write responsibly, without relying on AI in the wrong way. AI, according to Mendonis, is changing day to day, and we don’t know what jobs will exist in the future, when students graduate, making it essential to inform students and teachers about responsible AI use.
“Progress has become so quick that we would be doing our students a disservice if we didn’t include this somehow,” Mendonis said.
For appropriate use, Winans suggested using generative AI as a tool for research, such as finding articles to cite or suggestions on how to write effectively. When it comes to identifying whether a paper was written by AI or a human, Winans said that it’s diffi-
cult, but there are ways to tell.
“Teachers know their students,” she said. “Teachers know their writing styles. Teachers know how they speak in class. It’s amazing how well teachers get to know their children.”
At Lawrence High School, in Cedarhurst, both ChatGPT and MagicSchool are used by students and teachers, Principal Jennifer Lagnado-Papp wrote in an email.
Teachers at LHS look for specific words and consistency in writing style, to prevent overreach of AI in students’ work and to promote integrity.
“It is obvious when something was written by ChatGPT without further editing,” Lagnado-Papp wrote. “There are certain words that ChatGPT uses regularly, such as ‘underscores,’ ‘firstly,’ ‘secondly,’ ‘thirdly.’ These formulaic constructions are not typically used by high school students.”
Lagnado-Papp acknowledged that at times it is hard to detect AI, but Lawrence High teachers try to push students to produce unique, personal work.
“We want our students to recognize that AI is not a panacea, and they will need to think for themselves in their future endeavors,” she wrote.
As for the future of AI, Winans said she didn’t know where it was going, but added that students will ultimately dictate how the tool will be used. The situation is similar to when Wikipedia became popular, she said,
ai’s impact in the classroom
■ In public K-12 classrooms, 25 percent of teachers believe AI is doing more harm than good.
■ High school teachers view AI most negatively — unlike many middle school and elementary teachers.
■ Over 66 percent of American teens know of ChatGPT.
■ Nineteen percent of U.S. teens use ChatGPT for school work.
Pew Research Center, 2023 survey of the American Teacher Panel and KnowledgePanel teens
and everyone was nervous about where information was coming from. While Wikipedia presents a quick resource for information, Winans said, students still have to be able to seek out original sources.
“I think that there’s always a hesitation when a new technology moves forward,” she said. “And I think that there’s always a balance.”
The balancing factor, Winans said, is the importance of original thought, and students’ ability to produce something on their own.
“There’s also something exciting,” she said, “about having a tool that might further a student’s ability to explore something and get new ideas.”
Carol- ann Winans
Jim mendonis
D.A. looking into parkway dog abandonment
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
She was left alone, tied to a light pole on the westbound Southern State Parkway, near Exit 21, in Uniondale.
All she had was a water bowl, and a note that read, “This is Roxi. A trained American Bullmastiff. She is four years old. She has been fed and given a flea bath, she may still have issues with them. See that she gets good care.”
Roxi, later more accurately identified as an English mastiff, was abandoned on the parkway on the morning of July 1. State troopers retrieved her after responding to a call reporting a dog tied to a pole at around 5:30 a.m. They dropped her off at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh, where she was examined by veterinarians who found her to be hungry and underweight, but otherwise in good health.
“She’s nervous, but she’s very sweet,” Ashley Behrens, the acting director of the shelter, said. “Obviously it’s traumatic what she went through, so nervousness is to be expected.”
Now Roxi is looking for a home, and law enforcement officers are looking for whoever left her on the side of the road.
“We’re going to find a home for this dog and, working with our Nassau D.A., we’re going to find these culprits and hold them accountable,” Town Supervi-
sor Don Clavin said at a July 3 news conference outside the shelter.
Joining Clavin were county District Attorney Anne Donnelly and State Police Capt. Timothy Gleason. Donnelly said that her office and investigators were working with State Police to help find the person who abandoned Roxi, adding that anyone who recognized her should contact the State Police or the D.A.’s office.
The charges, according to Donnelly, could include abandoning an animal, a misdemeanor, or aggravated cruelty, a felony.
“Where we are able, we will prosecute them aggressively,” she said.
Dog abandonment is not uncommon, Donnelly noted, but what happened to Roxi was especially dangerous, because the Southern State is one of the most heavily traveled, and treacherous, highways on Long Island.
“It is no place to abandon a 4-year-old puppy,” Donnelly said. “It is unacceptable, and leaving a note with well wishes just doesn’t cut it. There is no excuse for dumping a dog on the side of a major highway.”
Gleason said that if Roxi had broken away from her leash, she would have put herself and motorists on the parkway in harm’s way. He added that people can fall on hard times, leaving them unable to afford to care for a pet, but abandoning an animal beside a highway is nei -
ther acceptable nor a safe option.
“While it appears that the owner may have had good intentions,” Gleason said, “if a person is unable to care for a dog, there are better ways of handling such a situation.”
Donnelly explained that dog owners who cannot continue to care for their pets should take them to an animal shelter or a veterinarian’s office, which will help find them a new home.
“Any of those options are better than tying a defenseless creature to a pole on a roadway where cars are going 60 miles an hour past it,” she said.
Donnelly added that Long Island is now experiencing the hottest weather of the year, when pets should not be left outside for extended periods, or in hot cars. A few minutes in a hot vehicle in extreme high temperatures, she said, can be deadly for an animal.
“Leaving an animal to bake in the sun is nothing short of cruel,” Donnelly said.
While Roxi’s situation was heartwrenching, Clavin said he had seen good come from the incident. The town had received over 50 phone calls, locally and from as far away as California and Washington, from people looking to adopt or find a home for her.
a 4-year-old English
abandoned on the Southern State Parkway on July 1. The Town of Hempstead and Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly are investigating.
“With the tragedy of what’s happened, you do see the goodness of people,” Clavin said. “You see the goodness of people who want to find a loving home for this animal.”
The investigation was continuing at press time, and anyone with information was encouraged to call the State Police, at (631) 756-3300. Gleason said that callers could remain anonymous.
Charles Shaw/Herald Roxi,
mastiff, was
Music, fireworks and family fun at ‘Celebrate America’
In honor of the Fourth of July, Nassau County once again illuminated the sky with bursts of color over the lake behind the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre for its annual “Celebrate America” firework display on July 3, hosted by TD Bank and Fireworks By Grucci.
The event kicked off with performances by The Allmost Brothers Band, an Allman Brothers tribute band, and Chicken Head Rocks, a cover band that plays a wide range of songs from rock, blues, and soul.
Following the performance, the fireworks commenced.
Fireworks got their start in America, after President John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife, First Lady Abagail Adams, that America’s independence should be celebrated with fireworks. To this day, we continue to honor our founding fathers the same way we did centuries ago, carrying on a tradition that always makes for a fun and exciting day.
This year’s “Celebrate America” display was made possible by Fireworks by Grucci. This company, known as “America’s First Family of Fireworks,” got its start in Southern Italy in 1850. The family immigrated to Elmont, New York, in 1870, to share their masterful pyrotechnic artistry with the United States. Their fireworks have since then been used at several presidential inaugurations and Olympic Games, among countless other notable events.
The show concluded with a special drone and laser light display, wrapping up a wonderful evening of entertainment for Independence Day.
— Jack Schwed
Maureen Lennon/Herald photos
Paul DiBenedetto, Eddie Camiolo, Joen Maddabre, Harry Jecklin and David Glatter of The Chicken Heads rocked Eisenhower Park on July 3, during Nassau County’s ‘Celebrate America’ show.
Entertainment didn’t end with The Chicken Heads, as the Allmost Brothers Band, a tribute band to the Allman Brothers, also performed. The band consists of Dave Filloramo, Sean McGrath, Dave Losee, Dan Roth and Joe Wasserman, above. Tom Hooker, who is not pictured, is also a member of the group.
A fireworks display, by Fireworks by Grucci, illuminated the lake behind the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. Karl Nuncio and Anna Yang attended the fireworks display in Eisenhower Park.
The Independence Day display also included a drone show. Bright lights formed an American flag in the sky.
STEPPING OUT
A great time -
The Empire State Fair is in full swing
By Danielle Schwab
Step right up, step right up! The Empire State Fair has returned with jaw-dropping rides, games and shows — welcoming all to enjoy some thrills at Nassau Coliseum. The summertime staple once again takes over the arena grounds, now through July 14.
As always, there’s plenty to see and do. Where else can you find farm animals, “pirate” acrobatics, a giant Ferris Wheel, and a transforming robot — all in one place?
This year, the swashbuckling, “Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean Thrill Show” takes to the tightrope in a fearless display of aerial highwire feats.
Alex Murcia, who’s involved with the acrobatic act as both a performer and owner of his family’s Sensational Murcia Productions, says the show, free with admission, is not to be missed.
“We took our strongest circus and thrill acts — the highwire tightrope walking and the Wheel of Death — and we created a pirate-themed production. So there’s sword fighting, good characters, bad characters, and they’re searching for the treasure map.”
You may even spot a mermaid. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a pirate thrill show without a hint of danger.
“All of that’s happening 25 feet in the air on a quarter-inch cable,” he adds.
The Murcia family goes back 10 generations of performers. This show is a tribute to their Colombian heritage.
“My father is from Colombia. It’s where they have the specialty act of high-wire tightrope walking performance,” Murcia says.
• Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale
• Now through July 14, 5-11 p.m. weekdays; noon-11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• $10 (free for kids under 36” tall with paying adult); unlimited ride wristbands (for riders 36” and taller) are $40 Friday - Sunday.
• Ride tickets are also available at the carnival for $1.50 each, $30/20 tickets, or $60/50 tickets plus 1 free ride (rides take 2 or more tickets each)
• More information available at EmpireStateFair.com
The many tricks are sure to elicit an enthusiastic response from fairgoers.
“The performers balance on chairs while on the high wire. They’ll stand up on the chair. People are like ‘wow, I can’t stand on a chair on the ground, and these guys are doing it up on the tightrope’,” he says.
Visitors can move from the high seas to high-tech with another Murcia family “wonder”: the Big Bee transforming robot car.
“It’s built to be like a life-size Camaro, but inside, instead of having seats, it has a system of hydraulics and different motors that make it lift and open up,” explains Murcia.
“The car goes up and down and transforms from what looks like a regular Camaro to a big, giant robot, Big Bee.”
The kids will want to stop by the Cowtown USA petting zoo run by the Sandlofer family. Here
everyone can pet and feed animals that helped shape America, including some that are unexpected.
“We have a domedary camel, Henry. Few people know that camels played an important part in our history. They were part of building the Transcontinental Railroad going through the deserts where horses couldn’t go,” says Sadie Sandlofer, who helps run the family business.
Other animals to see include a Scottish Highlander cow, oxen, baby goats, and sheep. Families can even simulate “milking a cow” as part of the experience.
The carousel of activities also includes the Anastasini Circus, which has been entertaining audiences since 1877, along with a test of wits at the interactive Kidbucks Game Show. To end the day, fireworks light up the night sky on Saturdays.
And of course, the rides and delicious foods — staples of the fair experience — beckon.
“There’s so many attractions that if you went to go see these shows, you would pay more in (individual) admission than you do at the fair to see all of them. So I would say check the website, check the schedule, and obviously don’t miss the shows, because once you’re inside all those shows are free with admission. Take advantage of that,” reminds Murcia.
Grab your tickets, eat some funnel cake and catch the summer breeze. A day of adventure awaits.
L.I. International Film Expo
Lights, camera, action. Bellmore rolls out the red carpet once again for the Long Island International Film Expo, now in its 27th year. LIIFE is proud to feature over 120 films, including 19 world premieres. From short to feature-length, moviegoers can partake of a diverse group of independent films. Special screenings of note include “Child Machine,” a fun sci–fi comedy; the thriller “Lady Of The Lake” about native Ronkonkoma’s Maria Capp, starring Seth Gilliam (“The Walking Dead”), Nia Sioux and Emery Kelly. Also enjoy Super Mega Trivia Slam trivia and the documentary on former New York State Assembleyman and longtime Long Beach resident Harvey Weisenberg, entitled “Harvey: The Voice for The Voiceless.”
Now through Sunday, July 14. Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore. Tickets and information available at LongIslandFilm.com.
Disco daze
Step into a time warp back to the glittering era of Studio 54 with The Disco Nights. Immerse yourself in a nostalgic celebration of the disco age. From the Bee Gees, to Gloria Gaynor, to Donna Summer, Chic, and so much more, it’s Saturday Night Fever all over again! Led by the Billboard-charting superstar JJ Sansaverino on guitar, The Disco Nights boast a lineup of top-tier musicians straight from the heart of New York City’s music scene. Every note is meticulously crafted to deliver the authentic sound of disco’s greatest hits. The band is joined by vocalists Alessandra Guercio, Jerome Bell and Adam Bastien of “American Idol” and “The Voice” fame. Dress to impress in your finest disco attire —think flared pants, crop tops, mini dresses, crystals, sequins, and psychedelic colors as the Paramount stage transforms into a glittering disco haven.
Photos courtesy Empire State Fair
From circus spectacle to daring side show acts and everyone’s favorite rides, plus new enticements, plenty of summer amusements are in store at the latest edition of the Empire State Fair.
Friday, July 12, 8 p.m. $45, $35, $30, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
THE Your Neighborhood
Mike DelGuidice
July 19
Mike DelGuidice is forever known for his connection to Billy Joel. One of Long Island’s most celebrated singer/songwriters continues his “residency” on the t Paramount stage, Friday and Saturday, July 19-20, 8 p.m. Mike DelGuidice and his band always give it their all, especially when playing the iconic Billy Joel songs. DelGuidice leads his band, in a rousing concert that highlights the Piano Man’s decades of hits. Like his idol, DelGuidice has become one of the area’s most celebrated performers, balancing his schedule between doing his own thing and touring with Joel all over the world.
DelGuidice, as with Joel, grew up mastering several instruments including bass guitar, guitar, piano, and drums. He’s renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge of the Joel catalog, which caught the attention of Joel himself, who ultimately brought him on stage with him. DelGuidice and his band pack hit after chart-topping hit, along with his own tunes in a high energy show that’s always a crowd pleaser. He is the author of two albums “My Street” and “Miller Place” numerous single releases, which are currently under consideration for film soundtracks. And his tune “Ordinary Guy” is the theme song for the Kevin James sitcom, “Kevin Can Wait.” DelGuidice is always moving and grooving, with plenty of projects ahead. $60, $40, $25, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Dramatic Play
Theatre Playground returns to Long Island Children’s Museum with “Dramatic Play!,” Monday, July 1, 1 p.m., taught by Lisa Rudin, Director of Theatre Playground. In this interactive, theater-inspired workshop, children will act out an original story and help choose how it unfolds. Music, props, and sound effects create a theatrical world where participants are immersed in the story.
Children are encouraged to express themselves as they create characters, explore different worlds, stretch their imaginations and build self-confidence. This week’s theme: Silly Monsters! Costumes encouraged. $5 with museum admission. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.
In concert
As part of the Town of Hempstead’s free Neighborhood Concert Series, Killer Joe performs its tribute to garage sound with rock ‘n roll, blues, and soul music, Monday, July 22, at 8 p.m., at Uniondale Avenue Park, 710 Uniondale Ave., Uniondale.
Passport Day
Hempstead Town offers its One-Stop Passport Shop, Saturday, July 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This event offers residents a convenient weekend date to apply for a passport. The passport shop is also open weekdays by appointment only during normal business hours, with extended hours on Thursday. It is recommended to download the appropriate application prior to appointment.
By appointment only. Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington St., Hempstead. Call (516) 812-3100 to schedule an appointment. Visit HempsteadNY.gov/436/ Passport-fee for fees and accepted forms of payment.
Darlene Graham’s “Singing at the Beach”
Darlene Graham’s “Singing at the Beach” concert is great for kids of all ages! She performs at Cedar Street Park, Tuesday, July 23, at 10:30 a.m. Admission is free. 645 Cedar St., Uniondale. For more information, call (516) 2929000.
LI
Minority Millennials host over 1,200 youth at Nassau Coliseum for 2nd annual “We Are the Future Summit” powered by Sands NY to empower the next generation of change-makers
Minority Millennials, a nonprofit civic and youth development organization, hosted its 2nd annual "We Are the Future Summit," on Friday, May 31 at Nassau Coliseum. Powered by Sands NY, the summit featured an enriching lineup of groundbreaking sessions, keynote presentations from thought leaders, elected officials, and influencers.
Additionally, the event showcased live performances by the 80 member Uniondale Marching Band & Steppers, Uniondale Jazz Band and Hempstead High School graduate Rising HipHop Star Chow Lee, adding a dynamic cultural element to inspire and engage attendees.
As the title sponsor, Sands NY is integral to the summit, supporting a new initiative to create a diverse local talent pipeline through preapprenticeships and procurement opportunities connected to their proposal for a multi-billiondollar integrated resort at the Nassau Hub. This collaboration will enable Minority Millennials to further their mission of empowering young people of color with access to jobs, wealth building, and enhanced civic engagement.
Ron Reese, Senior Vice President of Global Communications and Corporate Affairs at Las Vegas Sands, added, "This partnership
who we are:
exemplifies our commitment to not only develop a world-class entertainment and hospitality facility but also to invest in the local workforce and community. We are excited to see how this summit will open doors for many young professionals across Long Island."
Dan Lloyd, Founder and President
of
Minority Millennials, highlighted the summit’s comprehensive approach: "We are thrilled to bring together an eclectic mix of culture, policy, and professional development at this year's summit. Alongside the inspiring talks and sessions, we will host a vibrant array of performances that reflect the cultural richness of our community."
Haugland Group and Vineyard Offshore led as Workforce Development and Clean Energy Sponsors, that helped to feature an extensive career fair, providing attendees the chance to connect with leading companies and organizations from emerging industries such as offshore wind, construction, manufacturing, and more. The career fair will include opportunities for on-the-spot job applications, interviews, and networking, helping to bridge the gap between Long Island’s youth and local economic opportunities.
Although entrepreneurship is popular with a lot of young people, Billy Haugland II said not to count out trade careers such as construction and touted the benefits of a union job. He’s CEO of Haugland Group in Melville, an infrastructure services holding company.
“The wages are typically 20- to-50 percent
Continued on page 4
The developer of a proposed multi-billion-dollar flagship hospitality and entertainment project on Long Island
Photo provided by Sands
Photo: On May 31, more than 1,200 people attended the “We Are the Future Summit” sponsored by Sands NY.
Las Vegas Sands and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund host 15 HBCU students for annual Immersive Las Vegas Experience
The Sands Hospitality Immersion Program aims to create pathways to careers in hospitality and tourism for students from historically Black colleges and universities.
Las Vegas Sands and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) hosted 15 students representing 10 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) from around the country in the second annual Sands Hospitality Immersion Program, June 16-22 in Las Vegas.
Sands and TMCF, the only national organization exclusively representing the Black college community, established the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program to encourage interest in travel, tourism and leisure by exposing HBCU students to the inner workings of the Las Vegas hospitality industry.
The 15 rising junior and senior students selected for the exclusive summer program include Joshua Lee, Alabama A&M University; Waneysha Louissaint, Bethune-Cookman University; Tori Carlisle, Coppin State University; Fatima Diallo, Eli Pearson, Salimah Scott and Morayo Adeyemi, Howard University; Mya Mendoza and Denise White-Scott, Morgan State University; Hizikiel Holloman and Trevor Elliott, North Carolina A&T State University; Christian Nettles, North Carolina Central University; Zora Cunningham, Tuskegee University; Malaysia Jones, Virginia Union University; and Darryl Quick, Jr., Winston-Salem University.
Students are studying a range of majors including business, computer science, communications, finance, hospitality management, information technology, marketing, sales and supply chain management. They will receive a deep introduction to the travel, tourism and leisure industry and its wide range of professional positions, to inspire them to consider one of the world’s fastest-growing and largest employment fields.
“As a sales and marketing major, this experience will help me to better understand customer engagement,” said Zora Cunningham, a Tuskegee University student and immersion program participant. “By understanding this crucial practice in hospitality, I can apply these strategies to broader marketing efforts. This experience will also help me build valuable connections, gain practical insights and develop a deeper appreciation for personalized service and attention to detail.”
The multi-day experience is being curated by the Harrah College of Hospitality’s Sands Center for Professional Development at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Program elements include on-campus learning sessions with college faculty, industry speakers and interactive activities such as a cooking competition led by the college’s executive chefs. Over the course of the program, student participants will receive special insider tours of integrated resorts, convention spaces and sports venues.
In addition, students will visit Sands’ corporate headquarters to hear from professionals who will outline their experience in a wide range of disciplines and provide insights into the realm of professional services within the hospitality industry.
The travel, tourism and leisure industry continues to experience tremendous job growth and encompasses many professional positions. Beyond traditional hospitality tracks in hotel operations or restaurants, meetings and venue management, the industry offers career opportunities in finance, marketing, sales, human resources, information technology, legal and
other professional service fields.
“The Sands Hospitality Immersion is a transformative initiative designed to give HBCU students unparalleled access and exposure to the dynamic field of hospitality. This program not only broadens their career horizons but also equips them with the essential skills and networks needed to thrive in a competitive industry. By fostering a deeper understanding of hospitality, we are empowering the next generation of leaders to drive innovation and excellence in this vital sector,” said Tristin Rainey, senior manager of learning and talent at TMCF. Sands established the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program as part of the Sands Cares global community engagement program. It is one of the company’s many education and workforce development initiatives, which include contributions to and partnerships with higher education institutions, funding for scholarship programs, on-property and industry-supported training opportunities for students and hospitality professionals, and mentorship and instruction from company leaders and experts. “The Sands Hospitality Immersion Program advances two of our core initiatives – helping to build a highly skilled, diverse workforce in the hospitality industry and fostering opportunities and advancement for young people from traditionally underrepresented groups,” said Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate affairs, who spearheads corporate responsibility initiatives at Sands. “We hope this unique experience will inspire this talented group of students to consider the many opportunities the hospitality industry offers.”
Sands New York honored by United Way
Over 600 people turned out to the United Way’s 2024 “United in Purpose” Gala, where Sands New York was honored as the Corporate Impact Champion. To introduce the award, the organization showed a video of Theresa Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island driving with Former New York State Governor and Sands Senior Vice President David Paterson.
The segment included a conversation with two United Way beneficiaries, Matthew Knoblock, an alumni of United Way’s Power Up! Program, which led him to his position with PSEG Long Island; and Jennefer Maldonado, who received a DREAMS Scholarship to help get her through her college education, leading to her career with Brookhaven National Laboratory. Both Matt and Jennefer thanked United Way and Sands New York for the support they received as they pursued academic and professional goals.
Sands Senior Vice President Ron Reese was on site to accept the award, praising the United Way’s
work in the Long Island community. “Sands New York is proud to partner with United Way to help provide critical assistance for families and individuals throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties.”
Sands New York celebrates PRIDE Month with the LGBT Network
On June 9, 2024 the Sands New York team joined the LGBT Network to celebrate PRIDE on Long Island. The event, held annually in Huntington, drew in more people than ever before making it the largest Long Island Parade ever, according to organizers thousands turned out to celebrate the LGBTQ+ and allies of the community and to enjoy a variety of vendor booths, live music, food trucks, games and entertainment, and fun for everyone.
“Sands has a proud history of supporting, employing and welcoming those within the LGBTQ+ community, and we are extremely proud to partner with the LGBT Network to celebrate June as PRIDE month,” said Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Officer for Sands New York. “If built, the proposed Sands New York project will carry on our legacy of equity and opportunityand it will be a space where every Long Islander
can feel safe and free to be their full authentic selves.”
Sands was a platinum sponsor of the event and managed several booths within the festival area, where they spoke to festival-goers and handed out water bottles, frisbees and lip balm.
LI TODAY
more than a job that’s not unionized, and there’s health care, retirement benefits. …” Haugland said. “It can give you the stability to let your entrepreneurial passions rise.”
“Clean energy not only preserves our environment for future generations, but it holds immense potential for sustainable and equitable career paths for youth and people early in their careers,” said Andrea Bonilla, Senior Manager of External Affairs at Vineyard Offshore. “We are proud to partner with Minority Millennials to help make this clean energy future a reality.”
Founded in 2017, Minority Millennials, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to bridging the gap between policy and culture. Their mission is to help young people of color access, jobs, build wealth and become civically engaged.
Sands returns to East Meadow Day 2024
The East Meadow Community turned out in droves to celebrate East Meadow Community Day this year. The annual event is organized by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to give back to the community.
The Sands New York Team joined in as a sponsor, providing refreshments, enjoying the music and reveling in the spirit of giving back. The team joined in on the pie-eating contest and the color run, and supplied a face painter to add to the messy fun!
Ted Rosenthal, East Meadow Community Day 2024 Chairperson said, “Thank you to the Sands team for once again supporting our East Meadow Community Day, now in our 34th year. Not only did they bring an unlimited supply of refreshments but ensuring that the sound system reached all of our participants was a tremendous asset. We were thrilled that you joined us in what was our best Community Day yet.”
In the garden
Enjoy the glorious grounds of Old Westbury Gardens and listen to some stirring sounds, with Old Westbury Gardens’ artist-in-residence Cross Island, Sunday, July 14, 3-4 p.m.
Clarinetist Joseph Rutkowski, cellist Suzanne Mueller, and pianist Elinor Abrams Zayas open the annual summer series at The Barn.
The program comprises duets and trios spanning centuries and styles, seamlessly blending beloved favorites and intriguing discoveries. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.
Ventilation Systems workshop
Uniondale Public Library welcomes Brian Schnee, with KL Home Inspection Services, to discuss home ventilation units, Thursday, July 11, 7-8:30 p.m. Obtain information on purchasing, installing, and replacing different parts systems. 400 Uniondale Ave. For more information, visit UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220.
Pet Adoption Program
Adopt your “fur-ever” friend this summer. There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during the ”summer of love” at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. Now through Sept. 1, all pet adoption fees are waived and include free spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. There is a $10 license fee for dogs.
Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cats before stepping foot in the shelter online at HempsteadNY. gov/179/Animal-Shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page at Hempstead Town Animal Shelter. For more information, contact (516) 785-5220.
Uniondale Junior Friends
Uniondale Junior Friends invite teens in grades 6 through 12 to join in their peer-led meetings, Fridays, 4:305:30 p.m. Discuss upcoming events, share ideas and learn about community service opportunities. 400 Uniondale Ave. For more information, visit UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220.
Having an event?
Afternoon tunes
Visit Eisenhower Park’s Field #1 for its Noontime Concert series, Wednesday, July 17, noon-2 p.m. Relax and enjoy the styling of vocalist-dancer Louis Del Prete, known as the “ultimate entertainer.” Bring seating. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
Medicare seminar
Senior Services of North America holds a session on Medicare with Confidence, at Uniondale Public Library, Tuesday, July 16, 7-8 p.m. 400 Uniondale Ave., Uniondale. To learn more, visit UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media. It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority.
Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. It opens July 20 and is on view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Uniondale Community Council monthly meeting
Hear from community leaders from the police department, Uniondale School District, Uniondale Library, fire department, and others during the online meeting, Monday, July 15. For more information, call (516) 538-9487 or email Ucomm.council@gmail.com.
Teen Chess Club
Kids in grades 6 through 12 are welcome to join Uniondale Library’s Teen Chess Club, Fridays, 4-5:30 p.m. Interested in playing Chess with other Teens? Not sure how? Former Junior Friends member Mr. Raynor is here to help. Registration required. 400 Uniondale Ave. Register at UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220.
NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!
—
July 11,
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notices
STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU
UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR LVS TITLE TRUST XIII, Plaintiff, v. ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES OR SUCCESSORS IN THE INTEREST OF THE LATE RACHEL R. SMITH A/K/A RACHEL SMITH, ET AL, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on February 15, 2024, I, Ralph J. Madalena, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on July 25, 2024 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 3:00PM the premises described as follows: 50 Argyle Avenue Uniondale, NY 11553
SBL. No.: 36-121-477 & 478
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 009887/2015 in the amount of $276,857.16 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.
Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 147523
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. MTAG, AS CUSTODIAN FOR ALTERNA FUNDING I, LLC, Pltf. vs. DANIEL C. BROWN, et al, Defts. Index #002241/2017. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Nov. 23, 2022, I will sell at public auction on North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 25, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a 371 First Place, Uniondale, NY
a/k/a School District 2, Section 50, Block 109, Lot 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $21,571.20 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of
filed judgment and terms of sale. ADRIENNE FLIPSE HAUSCH, Referee. BRONSTER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 156 West 56th Street, Ste. 703, New York, NY 10019. File No. 700999.132 - #101512 147519
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR ABFC 2005-HE2 TRUST ABFC ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-HE2, -againstROSE-DENE WRIGHT, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on May 6, 2024, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR ABFC 2005-HE2 TRUST ABFC ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-HE2 is the Plaintiff and ROSE-DENE WRIGHT, 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 July 23, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 281 ANCHOR WAY, UNIONDALE, NY 11553; and the following tax map identification: 50-338-21. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT EAST HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 606656/2017. George Esernio, 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. 147517
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 16, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1172 Warwick Street, Town of Hempstead, NY 11553 a/k/a 1172 Warwick Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 36 and Lot 96. Approximate amount of judgment is $516,927.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #606784/2019. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.
Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 194110-1 147521
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC, Plaintiff, vs. ROSE BROWN, ET AL., Defendant(s).
foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale. Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022, Attorneys for Plaintiff 147527
AND LEGAL NOTICES…
in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT DATED AS OF DECEMBER 1, 2005, FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-E, Plaintiff, Against REGINALD MATHONE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 10/03/2016, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 8/1/2024 at 3:00PM, premises known as 622 Hillside Court, Uniondale, NY 11553, And Described As Follows:
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
BCMBI TRUST, Plaintiff, Against
BRIAN J. SMITH, ET AL., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 04/21/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 7/30/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 931 Cewell Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553, And Described As Follows:
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.
Section 0036 Block 144.00 Lot 66
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $87,224.89 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604506/2021
Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., Referee.
If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.
Richland & Falkowski, PLLC, 28-07 Jackson Avenue, 5th Floor, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101
Dated: 6/10/24 File Number: SMITH SH 147677
Section 50, Block 47 and Lots 32-34. Approximate amount of judgment is $886,894.24 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616578/2019. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.
Malachy Patrick Lyons, Jr., Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 180599-2 147674
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO RESPONDENT, ALAZAR GETAACHW TEKALINGE
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION , AS TRUSTEE OF THE CHALET SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. PAUL CHABAK, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 6, 2022 and an Order duly entered on May 22, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 23, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 79 Mount Joy Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 398 and Lots 332-334. Approximate amount of judgment is $312,021.34 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609848/2019. This
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York. Section 36 Block 153 Lot 664-667. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $586,880.87 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 14881/08 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.
Richard Lawrence Farley, Esq., Referee.
MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 6/10/24 File Number: 17-300289 SH 147679
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MFRA TRUST 2015-1, Plaintiff, vs. DINA VENTURA A/K/A DINA M. VENTURA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 8, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 335 Locust Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, Unincorporated Area, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York,
A petition has been filed against you seeking to terminate forever your parental rights to the minor children, Azariah Nathaniel Tekalinge and Amare Nazir Tekalinge, who were born on the 9th day of July, 2005 and the 16th day of May, 2012, respectively. It appears that ordinary process of law cannot be served upon you because your whereabouts are unknown. You are hereby ORDERED to appear in the Fourth Circuit Court of Davidson County in Nashville, Tennessee to personally answer the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and Adoption. Failing to appear, without good cause, will result in the loss of your right to contest the petition to terminate your parental rights to the children listed above and for their adoption. You may view and obtain a copy of the Petition and any other subsequently filed legal documents at the Circuit Court Clerk, 1 Public Square, Suite 302, Nashville, TN 37201. 147830
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on June 6, 2024, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A, THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2003-2 is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL DENTON IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DECEASED, 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 August 6, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 650 WINTHROP DRIVE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553; and the following tax map identification: 50-447-14. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT UNIONDALE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 000582/2017. Ronald J. Ferraro, 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. 147821
AND LEGAL NOTICES…
in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A, THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2003-2, -againstMICHAEL DENTON IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DECEASED, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 27, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 6, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 1090 Fayette Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Hempstead, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 346 and Lots 17 and 18. Approximate amount of judgment is $217,832.61 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612060/2022. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.
Russell S. Burman, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 221028-2 147807
LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO.21527 RESOLUTION NO.669-2024
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF THE TRUMAN 2021 SC9 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JACY L. CAMPBELL, AS PURPORTED ADMINISTRATOR AND HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF WINSTON CAMPBELL A/K/A WINSTON W. CAMPBELL A/K/A WINSTON WASHINGTON CAMPBELL, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Adopted: June 18, 2024 Councilmember Goosby offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS. WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 660-2024, adopted June 4th, 2024, a public hearing was duly held on the day of June 18th, 2024, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and
Residents seek action on polluted water
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Ongoing concerns of water contamination in Hempstead village have yet to be rectified, and residents and local leaders are continuing to be vocal about their outrage. Many attended the Nassau County’s legislative meeting on June 24 to further push for the situation to be addressed.
We need the necessary funding to address this crisis certainly in our community. pact.
SEDgWIcK EASLEy
Pastor, Union Baptist Church
The residents and others asked that the legislators encourage County Executive Bruce Blakeman to release over $1.75 million in funds from the American Rescue Plan Act for new water infrastructure.
“We need the necessary funding to address this crisis certainly in our community,” Pastor Sedgwick Easley, pastor of the Union Baptist Church of Hempstead, said at the meeting.
Recent testing on Hempstead village water wells found that the water supply contains more 1.4-dioxane than the amount safely allowed by New York State’s maximum contaminant level. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has deemed 1.4-dioxane a likely human carcinogenic.
This affects individual residents, businesses, and the community as a whole, LaShawn Lukes, president of the Hempstead Chamber of Commerce, said at the legislative meeting.
“Think about this at home tonight when you’re drinking water with your families. Would you want to drink the water in Hempstead?” she said.
This meeting comes days after County Legislators Siela Bynoe and Scott Davis joined the village’s elected officials, community leaders, and activists outside of the Hempstead Water Works on June 19 to demand ARPA funds be allocated towards a water treatment plan.
“As a breast cancer survivor, I’m keenly aware that we must be conscious about what is in our drinking
Public Notices
WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons: ELMONT
GOTHAM AVENUE - east
side, starting at a point 15 feet north of the north curbline of Blackstone Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-198/24)
KELLER AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 347 feet south of the south curbline of E Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-214/24)
ROOSEVELT
EAST RAYMOND AVENUE
- north side, starting at a point 505 feet west of the west curbline of Cottage Place, west for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-219/24)
UNIONDALE
HILL STREET - north side, starting at a point 86 feet east of the east curbline of Adams Street, east for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-203/24) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:
FRANKLIN SQUARE WOOL AVENUE - south side, starting at a point 185 feet west of the west curbline of Cleveland Street, west for a distance of 18 feet.
(TH-35/17 - 04/04/17)
(TH-200/24) (NR)LYNBROOK
KENSINGTON ROADeast side, starting at a point 55 feet north of the north curbline of Edward Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-173/00 - 02/27/01)
(TH-199/24) ; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town
Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting. The foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Dunne and adopted upon roll call as follows: AYES: SEVEN (7) NOES: NONE (0) 147894
PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
water,” Bynoe said at the gathering.
Under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, $12.75 billion was provided to the state of New York for “critical response and recovery efforts related to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic,” according to the Budget.ny.gov.
Nassau County received $385 million, and according to the Nassau County government website, the funds must be allocated by the end of 2024 and fully expended by the end of 2026.
ARPA funds have been allocated to Great Neck, Farmingdale, and Hicks -
ville for similar water treatment plans in past months. However, Bynoe and Davis filed their requests on May 3 and no action has been taken so far.
“We all took an oath as elected officials to do the right thing, and we’re asking for your help to speak on our behalf to ask the county executive to please assist us with the funds that we need in order to take care of the water in the Hempstead Village,” Village of Hempstead Trustee Clariona Griffith said at the meeting.
As of press time, the county did not return a call for comment.
CRIME bRIEf
Arrested for burglary and identity theft
A Freeport man was arrested on July 5 for multiple incidents across Nassau County between May and October of 2023.
Victor S. Garrison Jr., 23, was “extensively investigated” before his arrest, Nassau police said. He was allegedly responsible for three residential burglaries, one on Sept. 19 on Nostrand Avenue in Uniondale, on Sept. 21 on Grand Avenue in Baldwin, and on Oct. 2 on Lincoln Avenue in Roosevelt.
Police determined that Garrison allegedly removed victims’ credit cards and identifications from multiple cars
and used them to make unauthorized purchases. Garrison is charged with four counts of burglary, three counts of criminal possession stolen property, four counts of grand larceny, two counts of criminal possession of a forged instrument, four counts of identity theft, two counts of unauthorized use of a vehicle, and two counts of criminal mischief.
He will be arraigned at First District Court in Hempstead on July 6.
Courtesy Office of Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Siela A. Bynoe
Nassau County Legislator Siela A. Bynoe speaks out alongside Hempstead Village elected officials, community leaders, and activists outside the Hempstead Water Works on June 19 to demand funding for upgraded water infrastructure.
–Kelsie Radziski
VIctoR S. gARRISon JR.
CSC Holdings, LLC seeks a Lead Software Developer to design and manage settop box (STB) main software stack in various languages including HTML, Javascript, CSS, Bash and Python. Collaborate with other leads and architects to manage and design software integration in the STB stack. Develop video front-end components such as UI and Middleware. Design STB diagnostic tools and implement methods for troubleshooting. Provide technical and professional guidance to more junior team members. #LI-DNI Position requires a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related field, and 5 years of experience with software development, including analyzing user requirements and defining functional specifications. Experience must include a minimum of: 5 years of experience with converting business requirements into functional and application system design documents; 5 years of experience participating in effective design, development and testing phases of project implementation; 5 years of experience with Java technologies; 5 years of experience with HTML 5 technologies, including CSS and JavaScript; 5 years of experience with Bash or Python; 5 years of experience developing with Linux; 5 years of experience working with backend and embedded systems; 2 years of experience in ADB, web debugging, and GCC debugging; and 2 years of experience with set-top box development. Part-time telecommuting may be permitted. Job location: Bethpage, NY. Rate of Pay: $169,229.00 – $179,229.00 per year. To apply, please visit https://www.alticecareers.com, and enter Job Requisition ID 6144. Alternatively, please send your résumé, cover letter, and a copy of the ad to: Altice USA, Attn: Erin M. Berry, One Court Square West, Long Island City, NY, USA 11101. Altice USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting, hiring and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds regardless of gender, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age, marital status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. Altice USA, Inc. collects personal information about its applicants for employment that may include personal identifiers, professional or employment related information, photos, education information and/or protected classifications under federal and state law. This information is collected for employment purposes, including identification, work authorization, FCRAcompliant background screening, human resource administration and compliance with federal, state and local law.
DRIVERS WANTED
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
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 NYS License Clean 3 Years $20 - $25/ Hour Call 516-731-3000
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. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. 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
FULL TIME - PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE Garden City Childcare Center Immediate Start $16-$22 per hour Call 516-572-7614
HANDYPERSON WANTED
Immediate Opening at our Garden City Location DESIRED SKILLS: Electrical * Welding * Carpentry Mechanical * Plumbing Part Time/Fulltime (benefits available with full time) $18-$30 per hour based on experience Richner Communications, Inc 2 Endo Blvd Garden City, NY 11530 Send resume to careers@lixtherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 ext 211
BILINGUAL TEACHER AIDES
The Merrick Before/After School Program is hiring for the 2024-25 school year. We require mature individuals to provide quality childcare to elementary school aged children between the hours of 2:30pm to 6:00pm weekdays. Minimum 3 afternoons per week Experience helpful Competitive hourly wage If interested email merrickbasp@aol.com or Call (516)379-4245.
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
MERRICK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT
OUTSIDE SALES
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
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
PERSONNEL CLERK/ ACCOUN T CLERK ASSISTANT. $20-$23 per hour. 17 hours per week. Monday and Tuesdays 9:30-3:30. (remaining shift TBD w/ candidate) Occasional Saturday may be required depending upon payroll schedule Duties include Payroll, Benefits Administration, assisting Account Clerk. Necessary skills: Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, strong math skills. Email resume to jkoenig@islandparklibrary.org
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
Software Engineer: Analyze, Design, Develop, Maintain, Test complex full-stack software solutions leveraging Java technologies, UI/UX designs, Angular, React, Express, JavaScript, JSF, Couchbase, Node JS, SQL Server, Mongo DB, Cassandra, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Cloud Security, Agile, CI/CD pipelines, Microservices, SOAP and REST API, Graph QL, Kubernetes, TDD, BDD, CQRS Pattern, Kafka, JMeter, Mockito, Selenium, AI, Machine Learning. Requires: Travel within the USA + Bachelors in Computer Science, Applied Computer Science, Engineering, Technology Management / Information Technology min. 36 Months experience. Salary $115,918. Send resume by mail to: American Software Resources, Inc., 4 Brower Avenue, Suite 4, Woodmere, NY 11598
Oceanfront Beauty
CEDARHURST NO FEE Private EnModern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978
LYNBROOK: 2 BR, 1 Bath, Second Floor, Off Street Parking, No Pets, $3,100. 516-599-3174
WANTAGH 1 BEDROOM, Full Kitchen, Full Bath, Livingroom/Kitchen Combo, No Smoking No Pets. $1650. 516-731-3763.
ROCKVILLE CENTRE SUNNY Private Entrance,Walk In Closet, Walking Distance South Nassau Hospital, Share Bath, 516-913-0804.
Enjoy the fresh salt air in this magnificent home right on the oceanfront. Amazing views of the Atlantic abound from private decks on all 3 levels, including one right off the primary suite, one on the main level and one right at beach level. The primary suite features a fireplace and a brand new bathroom with radiant heat flooring, and there are 4 additional spacious
Elmont $940,000
BETH DAVID CEMETERY: Elmont, NY.
3 Plots. Separate Or All Together. Graves 18, 25, and 32. Purchase Separate $3999; Purchase Together $9999. Negotiable. Call 845-641-7316
ONE BURIAL PLOT FOR SALE at Beth David’s in Elmont. Asking for $6,500. Please contact Michele Flanigan at 518-546-9550
HIRING?
Place Your Ad in the Herald Help Wanted Classifieds. Call 516-569-4000, press 5 to speak to an Account Executive.
Kirkman Avenue. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Spacious home conveniently located in the heart of Elmont. Ideally situated on 50x118 lot, perfect for multi-generational living.
Taxes: $10,639
Hewlett $999,999
Raymond Place. Antique/Historical. 7 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room.
Taxes: $25,754.73
Long Beach $888,000
Taft Avenue. 2 Story. 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Updated eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Large living room with vaulted ceiling, 2 skylights and fireplace. Attic for storage. Legal 2 family. Side yard with additional backyard. Covered front porch and back terrace.
Taxes: $14,658.97
Merrick $1,465,000
Northridge Avenue. Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Walk out basement. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with waterfall island with second sink and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor bedroom.
Oceanside $720,000
Foxhurst Road. Hi Ranch. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Custom eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Ensuite master bedroom walk-in closet. First floor bedroom. Updates include new roof and windows, central air conditioning. Large property. Convenient location near shopping, restaurants and Silver Lake Park.
Taxes: $15,390.59
Rockville Centre $830,000
Driscoll Avenue. Colonial. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Eatin kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room.
Taxes: $13,931.71
Valley Stream $650,000
Decker Street. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. New kitchen. 60x100 lot. Convenient location in heart of Valley Stream close to all amenities and park. Taxes: $10,787.24
Woodmere $1,230,000
E. End. Split Level. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Finished basement. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room. First floor bedroom. Guest quarters. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight. Taxes: $20,131.29
Permits?
What permits?
Q. I read your column all the time and am aware that you always recommend getting permits, but I realize that nobody around me has one for any of the things you mention, and I want to put in a low deck, just two steps off the ground. It seems like a lot of extra expense to have plans and pay for a permit, especially because my neighbors have a two-story deck, a hot tub and a pool and no permits. I’m weighing this out because I wonder if a building inspector will notice everyone else’s work and catch them. I don’t want to be the one they all suspect of being the tattletale. What advice can you give?
A. Yes, by law, we are obligated to do any work in the prescribed legal manner, which, as licensed professionals, includes informing people that they are required to follow building codes, zoning restrictions and general law. Anything else would be aiding someone in the commission of a crime. It would be like asking your attorney to advise you in the planning of a bank robbery, even though that is probably an extreme example. It is still a crime, too.
Your proposed deck seems simple enough, but may be full of problems if not built to code, including not putting in the right depth footings, the correct connections or the correct structure. I once had a situation with an examiner who insisted that the main support beam — sitting on the ground, no less — didn’t pass the test of calculations as a main beam. (Yes, they actually check the strength of beams, in some cases by doing their own calculations.) The owner was appalled that the beam, sitting right on the ground, wouldn’t pass. The examiner explained that the beam has to be supportive on its own, in case the ground washes out from underneath.
I know that you just want to hire someone you assume knows all the rules, but I can tell you that I spend 50 percent of my time trying to undo or rethink how to solve a bad decision by someone who guessed that what they were doing would be all right. This usually happens when no plans were done by a professional, and there was no review, and the owner is desperate to get through a process either because they got caught or have a sale pending, awaiting this problem to be solved.
Check to see if your jurisdiction is one that lets you draw the plans yourself, because the deck is so close to the ground and under the 3-foot limit that requires a professional. As for the inspector, I can only recommend that you follow the procedures. The inspector has to follow their best judgment. Many have told me they generally only respond to complaints, and that they often don’t issue violations unless the problem is really obvious, and not one where they’re thought to be peeking over fences. Good luck!
© 2024 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Ask The Architect Monte Leeper
YARD SALE 129 East Walnut St, Long Beach. Every Thursday-Sunday from June 27-July 28, 12-5pm. Something for everyone, kids and adults.
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BOSCH Stove- $800, Bosch Dishwasher$500, Coffee Tables (2)- $200, Floor Lamps-$150, Paintings- $50, Bar Height Stools (6)- $500. Great Condition. Please Call 516-743-5016.
FREON WANTED
Certified buyer looking for R11, R12, R22 & more! Call Clarissa at 312-535-8384
*MICHAEL LO BAIDO CONSTRUCTION*
Cement Specialist, Brickwork, Interlock Bricks, Belgium Blocks, Stoops, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Basement Entrances, Pavers, Waterproofing. Quality Work, Lic./ Ins. Owner Always Onsite Free Estimates 516-354-5578
BISELL ELECTRIC CARPET Shampoo Cleaner with Supplies. Like New. $85. 516-486-7941
ERNIE KEEBLER WATCH, like new, for boy or girl, great graduation gift. $35. 516-486-2363
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iconfess that once you’re in your 80s, you suffer from a variety of ills, major and minor. I’m lucky that the major ones are under control and that I am happily dealing only with a few minor ones, such as an arthritic knee. It’s that knee that triggers this discussion about knees, and fantasies.
A few weeks ago, I crossed paths with an old friend from my Long Beach days. He noticed me limping down a nearby flight of stairs and asked about my health. I told him that I was dealing with the pain of arthritis in the knee, and was undergoing some treatment. I thought that was the end of the discussion until two weeks later, when I met a friend who happens to be in the same business as my old Long Beach buddy.
The first words out of his mouth were, “I heard you were in a wheelchair because of some knee issue.” I assured
Cars, vintage and new, test the young and old opinions Like President Reagan said, trust but verify
This story is true. The names have been changed to protect the innocent, the guilty and the woefully inexperienced. That’s because I’m related to all the players and, in fact, am a character in the story myself. Please don’t judge.
As you may know, since you were probably a teenager yourself at some point, there comes a time, after your last Big Wheel, after driver’s ed and before your brain matures, when you want to drive. You burn with the desire to hit the road.
RAnDi KREiss
In our family, it has been a tradition to help the younger generation get their first cars. Our son got our old Oldsmobile when he was 17, which he drove without incident — except for the very first day, when he got out at a railroad crossing to check a tire and forgot to put the car in park. He got lucky.
Next, we gave our daughter our aging powder-blue Chevy Nova, but she refused to drive the “Mom car” any-
him that the rumor was just that, but for that instant I felt sorry for President Biden, who on a daily basis is dealing with these types of gross exaggerations. In my case, my ailments will in no way interfere with my political career, because it is long gone. But poor Biden must deal with this stuff and it isn’t funny.
In the course of one week — well before last week’s debate with Donald Trump — Biden had to face multiple false claims about his sanity, made by a political underground that thrives on destroying reputations to help Trump.
JBy now, the much-heralded first presidential debate will have taken place, so I am in no position to have handicapped that event to determine who came off the worst. I leave that decision to the political pundits.
oe Biden has had to face multiple false claims about his sanity. And Trump?
During his trip to Normandy, France, to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Biden, surrounded by European officials, left the group to greet some paratroopers, and the opposition cropped his photo and claims he wandered off in some type of lost moment.
In another photo of the president that got the attention of the opposition, he stood in a crowd swaying to music, and because he didn’t sway, he must have be caught in some type of moment.
Which leads me to the case of Trump. In recent weeks he has made more than his share of missteps, but somehow his acolytes can see no wrong. He can rant endlessly about washing machines, electric submarines and sharks and it attracts no criticism from his supporters. He recalls beating President Barack Obama in the 2016 election and his defenders claim it’s just Donald being Donald.
He recently spoke about getting migrants to take part in a “migrant league of fighters,” and suggested that the champion might beat the champion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. His remarks do bring back memories of his involvement in the World Wrestling Federation, which became World Wresting Entertainment, but that’s just more word salad from the
master word chef.
Trump’s repeated call for Biden to take the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, which Trump claims he “aced,” are totally off base, because, according to Dr. Daniela Lamas of Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, it isn’t an aptitude test, but rather a screening test for dementia or other cognitive decline. Picking out a whale a dog or a cow doesn’t reflect genius.
There are countless other examples of the gotchas that the candidates can roll out to cut the legs off of their opponents. Some observers claim that Trump’s missteps far outweigh and outnumber Biden’s. To his credit, Biden has not taken on the strange Trump antics, leaving that to the media police.
We still have months to go before Nov. 5, so for now, don’t swallow everything you see on the political scene. In the words of the great President Ronald Reagan, “Trust, but verify.”
Jerry Kremer was an Assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
where she might be seen. The shame of it was too much.
They grew up. They got smart. They had kids of their own.
Some weeks ago, as one of the grandkids approached their time to hit the road, a related party, not to be named, gifted said child with a fancy-shmancy automobile so that they “would be safe” on the road, you know, surrounded by tons of metal. First day out, the kid stopped at a light and another driver slammed into them, totaling the car, but thankfully causing no injuries. It was a traumatic launch to a driving career.
out to find where the kid was stuck, realized the problem, and explained: Cars of a certain vintage had hand brakes that had to be released. Brake was released. Car moved. Problem solved.
W hat we learned: Don’t get your emergency driving tips from Instagram.
Said teen now had no car, and needed to get to school and sports and such. So we stepped up and gave the kid our 15-year-old Honda sedan — not very cool, not fancy, but a helpful gift for which the teen was grateful.
We drove our two cars to our son’s home, turned the Honda over to the grandchild and watched as they drove off for the inaugural ride. A half hour later they called to say the car was stuck, making groaning noises and lights were blinking. My husband drove
That night, second time out with the Honda, the grandkid, who was sleeping at a friend’s house, called home at 2 a.m. and told their dad the teens at the sleepover had decided to go out for pizza at midnight. Again, the car was dead. Had the teen left the lights on? We’ll never know.
But teen and friends, ever resourceful, looked up what to do on Instagram, and read that you can push a car down the road and it will start. Somehow, in the magical world of automotive miracles, the engine will just engage.
But that wasn’t what happened. Because it can’t happen with an automatic transmission. They pushed the car down the road and it didn’t start, but it did take off like a rocket and crashing into another car that belonged to one of the other kids’ parents.
Major damage.
Full confessions and remorse all
around. We realized we had some responsibility for not giving the grandkid a lesson in how to drive an old car with no automatic anything. Contrition abounded, and financial arrangements were made for kids to pay for damages from their jobs. For the next decade. Remarkably, none of the adults stroked out.
Next day, still visiting our son, I had no car to drive to the market, so he gave me the key to his new fancy-shmancy automobile. I opened the door and slid behind the wheel, and that’s where my outing ended. The seat and mirrors started adjusting themselves, and I had no idea where to stick the key, how to turn on the car, or what the humming noise was telling me. I couldn’t even find the A.C. This car was so space-age that, for me, it was functionally undrivable.
Is there something to learn from this? Not much, I guess, except that no one, young or old, should get behind the wheel of an automobile unless they know how to start, stop, turn on the lights, and put it in park. Also, if the car is older than 10, mind the handbrake. And never, ever get your emergency driving tips from Instagram.
Copyright 2024 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
JERRY KREMER
HeraLd editoriaL
Summer brings a greater risk of fires
With summer in full swing, Long Islanders are enjoying warm, sunny weather and creating memories with barbecues, lazy afternoons by the pool and gatherings of family and friends.
HERALD
Summer weather, however, also brings an increased risk of fires. Whether it’s a backyard grill or a campfire, fire hazards are more prevalent at this time of year, which is why it’s critical to be aware of fire safety practices.
Barbecuing is one of the most popular summertime activities, but grilling outdoors can pose risks if not done properly. Use common sense and fire up propane, charcoal or wood pellet grills outside only — and resist the urge to do so in a garage, even with the garage door open — to avoid any possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning. Grilling should be done a safe distance from your home, deck railings or any overhanging tree branches, and you should maintain a three-foot safe zone around the grill to keep kids and pets safe.
Make sure your grill is on a level, stable surface to prevent tipping. Never leave a lit grill unattended, and keep a close eye on what’s cooking, especially when there are children or pets nearby. After the meal, when using charcoal,
Letters
We need to realize what we’ve got, or it’ll be gone
To the Editor:
This year, patriotism plays a larger role than ever before in my life. The events of Jan. 6, 2021, and the radical Supreme Court made me realize how fragile our democracy really is. Funny, but just like life. You take relationships for granted. You don’t realize how good you have it until they’re gone. Same thing with our constitutional democratic republic.
The Greatest Generation understood that. Thousands went to Normandy to fight for democracy abroad. In contrast, we sound like spoiled brats who don’t appreciate the freedoms our ancestors fought and died for. Some want a dictator in office, a “unified Reich,” as a Trump video suggested. I fear, as does the entire world, that we may no longer be that “city on a hill.” That unpatriotic Americans either do not understand what is at stake, or want the authoritarian regime that Donald Trump promises to rule. Now, substantial immunity and the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 would give a president free reign to destroy the American experiment.
I want my grandchildren to grow up with the same freedoms my parents came to this
once the coals have cooled, put them in a metal can with a lid.
It’s important to clean your grill to prevent a buildup of grease, which can lead to flare-ups and larger grease fires. In case of a grease fire, don’t attempt to put it out with water. The best method is to cover the flame with a metal lid to eliminate the oxygen that fuels it. If a lid isn’t handy, two other alternatives you can reach for to help douse a grease fire are baking soda and salt.
Fireworks are a quintessential part of summertime fun, but they are also extremely dangerous — and illegal in the hands of private citizens. They are also one of the leading causes of summer fires and injuries, as many of us read and heard last weekend, as we do after every Fourth of July. Instead of putting yourself, your family or your friends at risk, attend a public fireworks display conducted by professionals.
Fire pits are another summertime tradition. In your backyard, proper fire safety practices are essential. Check for local regulations on the legality of fire pits, and obtain a permit if you risk violating them.
Keep the fire in a fire pit small and manageable, and clear the area around
it of anything flammable, including leaves, dry grass and extra firewood. Never leave a fire unattended, and before you go inside for the night, make sure the fire is completely extinguished by pouring water or sand on it and stirring the ashes until they are cold to the touch.
Check the weather forecast the day you’re planning to use a fire pit, and if there’s any mention of wind, wait for another night. Flying embers can endanger other parts of your property, to say nothing of your house, or your neighbors’ homes.
Finally, summer heat can also increase the risk of fires in your home. Test your smoke alarms, and replace their batteries if needed. Make sure fire extinguishers are accessible and in good working order. Avoid overloading electrical outlets with air conditioners, fans and other seasonal appliances, and don’t run extension cords under rugs or furniture. Outside, trim trees and shrubs regularly, and dispose of yard waste properly.
Common-sense precautions will go a long way when it comes to preventing fires and ensuring that your summer activities will be memorable for all the right reasons. Be safe this season.
country for. They appreciated the rule of law, the right to vote, the Constitution and all the freedoms that came along with it. Love of country matters now. Patriotism matters. They say fascism will come draped in an upside-down American flag and carrying a cross. I hope that most Americans still
believe in decency and democracy. I hope we celebrated our love of this country on July Fourth, and never take it for granted again!
CLAUDIA BORECKY President,
opinions
Hempstead’s drinking water can’t be
in government, our commitment to serve the public must transcend the political fray. In the case of the Village of Hempstead’s ongoing drinking water contamination crisis, the administration of County Executive Bruce Blakeman has thus far been unable to place residents’ basic needs before politics — a circumstance made even more galling by the potential health ramifications of that stubbornness.
This spring, village officials, led by Mayor Waylyn Hobbs, revealed that Hempstead’s wells, which provide drinking water for over 59,000 residents and countless small businesses, had three to 11 times the acceptable level of the contaminant 1,4 dioxane, a suspected carcinogen linked to liver and kidney cancers.
Hempstead has some of the county’s oldest water infrastructure, which serves Nassau’s densest population hub. On May 21, the village board voted to borrow $55 million to build a state-ofthe-art water-treatment facility, and has urged federal, state and local leaders to do their part to ease the burden on vil-
Laura Gillen employs the usual euphemisms
To the Editor:
Reading Laura Gillen’s pro-abortion op-ed, “I’m running to fight for women’s freedoms” (June 27-July 3), I’m struck by the question of why we use such euphemisms when it comes to abortion. “Women’s freedoms,” “Reproductive health care,” “bodily autonomy.” Is it possible that, deep down, we know how unspeakably wrong abortion is, and we use these slogans to ease our consciences, or to convince ourselves that it is noble?
When a woman wants to have a child, she celebrates the life growing within her from the moment she gets her first positive test. Our daughter told us she was pregnant by showing us an ultrasound image taken just weeks into her pregnancy. She was so excited about this new life. What changes if the child is unwanted? Is it no longer a life just because it is unwanted? Is it not still a developing human child?
We are constantly lectured by the left to “follow the science,” but that argument seems to disappear when it comes to abortion. Other than conception,
lage taxpayers.
For months I worked alongside my colleague Legislator Scott M. Davis to marshal county resources. This culminated with a formal request on May 3 for more than $1.75 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding from $15 million set aside for legislative initiatives. With the August expiration of their dioxane waiver fast approaching, these resources would equip the village to begin work on this critical project and give residents and business owners — especially restaurants, which rely on the water for cooking — some peace of mind that help was on the way.
the village has some of Nassau County’s oldest water infrastructure.
As a breast cancer survivor, I had genetic testing that proved I was not predisposed to the disease — yet I was diagnosed, like many others in my community. I don’t want Hempstead residents to bear that potential burden.
Per the statute establishing this $15 million fund, the Legislature — not the county executive — is tasked with determining allocations. The administration’s role is to process requests from the Legislature. Yet in another erosion of the division of powers in Nassau government, the Blakeman administration has usurped control of this process.
While a joint request from two Demo-
there is nothing that happens during the pregnancy that is anything other than a matter of development. Of course a baby is not “viable” at 10 or 12 weeks gestation, but a newborn infant is not viable, either. They both need considerable development before they are selfsufficient to any degree.
Women have all the “freedom” in the world — before another life comes into play. Where else in our society do we allow one person to take the life of another with impunity? If that’s “freedom” or “autonomy,” we should have none of it.
What bothers me most about abortion is that we would not treat our pets that badly. Surely we spay and neuter our pets, but if there was a clinic where vets were cutting open those poor unfortunate dogs and cats that found themselves in the midst of unwanted pregnancies and destroying the litters, there would be a public outcry against such a place. That vet would find him or herself in jail before they could blink an eye.
Why do we not do that for our children?
PHILIP PRESTAMO Pastor, Cornerstone Church Freeport
a political football
cratic legislators for potentially life-saving resources has languished for months, similar requests for Republican districts encompassing Farmingdale, Great Neck and Hicksville have passed swiftly through the Legislature, sometimes in mere weeks. This demonstrates how the administration injects partisan politics into almost every aspect of county government — even something as vital as the delivery of safe drinking water.
To date, the Republican majority has received over $4 million in ARPA funding for legislative initiatives, more than $2 million of it for water-treatment projects. Meanwhile, the Democratic minority has requested over $3.3 million in ARPA funding — including the $1.75 million for Hempstead water — but received nothing. At a bare minimum, the approval of one legislator’s $1 million request to combat dioxane in Farmingdale has set the precedent for Davis and I to request approximately $875,000 apiece for Hempstead.
There is more than $50 million remaining in Nassau County’s ARPA allotment, which must be allocated by year’s end, and I believe that delivering additional aid from the county’s ARPA funding allotment is a matter of economic and environmental equity.
A March 2020 Newsday report exposed how 56 percent of homes in District 2 communities, including Hempstead Village, were overtaxed because of frozen tax rolls and the resulting shift in assessed value to minority communities. At the time, I represented a configuration of District 2 that encompassed almost all of Hempstead. It is also important to note that the county administration has once again frozen the tax rolls, creating avenues for a return to this state of inequity.
Given these factors, along with the looming taxpayer burden of a $55 million capital bond, and the fact that all of the village’s wells are impacted, leaving residents and business owners few alternatives other than buying bottled water for drinking and cooking, at great expense, Blakeman’s administration has the opportunity — and, I would contend, the obligation — to support Hempstead at a level proportional and commensurate with its present public health and economic challenges.
The people deserve action and immediate answers — and it will become the shameful legacy of Blakeman and his administration if they fail to rise to this most basic standard of equitable governance.
Siela A. Bynoe represents Nassau County’s 2nd Legislative District, and is the Legislature’s alternate deputy minority leader.
Framework by Tim Baker
sieLa a . BYnoe
