Uniondale Herald 12-07-2023

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Police foundation gives away 3,000 toys

By REINE BETHANY rbethany@liherald.com

Reine Bethany/Herald

Hundreds of parents and children from the Uniondale school district gathered at Walnut Street Elementary School last weekend for a toy giveaway sponsored by the Nassau County Police Department Foundation. Following the truck in the parade of vehicles is the red car carrying Uniondale Fire Chief Jessica Ellerbe.

Walnut Street Elementary School was the first stop this year for the seventh annual Holiday Toy Parade, sponsored by the Nassau County Police Department Foundation.

Bright and early on a chilly Saturday morning, hundreds of children gathered at the school with their parents. Blue-jacketed members of the Nassau County Police Explorers — a pro g ram for young people between 13 and 21 that introduces them to law enforcement work — helped the crowd to CoNtiNUED oN PagE 20

Blakeman, Poser clash over Hofstra Israel-Hamas comments

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

They have been locked up in a court battle over a proposed casino in Uniondale, and now they are facing off in a more public setting. But this time, N a s s a u C o u n t y E xe c u t ive Bruce Blakeman says he won’t be satisfied until Hofstra University president Susan Poser resigns.

But the current debate is not over whether public meetings were properly noticed. Instead, Blakeman is fired up over statements Poser released following the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel in October intended to comfort Hofstra students —

both Jewish and Palestinian — she says were directly affected by the Oct. 7 attack, and the war in Gaza that followed.

She wrote that the university mourns the loss of life, and fears the continued tensions will move the Middle East “even farther from lasting peace.” Poser notes that since the campus has students and employees who are directly affected by the tragedy, mental health support should be offered if it’s needed.

“As a community, we must abhor violence,” Poser said. “At the same time, individuals can have differing political views, particularly given the complexity of the politics and history

of this region of the world.”

But that went too far for Blakeman, who wrote a letter to Hofstra’s board of trustees demanding Poser’s resignation.

He described her statements as misguided and “antithetical to good moral values and judgment that it puts into question her ability to lead Nassau County’s largest private university.”

Hofstra’s board of trustees disagrees, telling Blakeman they stand by Poser, who like Blakeman, is also Jewish.

Under Poser’s leadership, the board said, Hofstra University has “remained an academic center of mutual respect and peace — even in these difficult

times.”

It was a response Blakeman characterized as “disappointing and disturbing,” He told the Herald he hopes educators will approach the topic of the Israel-Hamas conflict with balance, and that he has nothing against teaching “both sides” of an issue. At the same time, Blakeman believes educators who lean far left of the political spectrum push students toward

an “anti-American” mindset.

“I think that it’s high time that we examined exactly what’s being done in our institutions of higher education, because it appears that a lot of our children are being indoctrinated,” Blakeman said.

“They’re not being told the truth, and we need to make sure that we monitor all of our educational facilities to make CoNtiNUED oN PagE 19

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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Bynoe on senate run: ‘There is more to be done’

By BRANDON CRUZ bcruz@liherald.com

Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe has officially announced her run for the State Senate during a campaign rally Wednesday in Westbury. She looks to take over the seat currently held by Kevin Thomas, who has already made clear he intends to run for Congress.

Bynoe — re-elected just last month in a redrawn district that now includes Uniondale, Hempstead, and her hometown of Westbury — told the nearly 100 in attendance the work the communities have accomplished over the years is amazing.

However, it is simply not enough.

“Spiritual leaders, community leaders, housing advocates, educators and community members,” the legislator said.

“Together, we have focused on creating housing opportunities for first-time homebuyers, and we have focused providing high quality public education for our children and parents. But there is more to be done.”

Bynoe says she plans to campaign on a platform that would push to recruit and retain highly skilled educators for public schools, while also growing the number of qualified health care workers in the county.

“There is more to be done to improve access to medical and behavioral health care,” she said. “There is more to be done to create housing options for our young people, for families, and for our seniors.

Brandon Cruz/Herald

Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe is ready to take her public service work from Mineola to Albany, announcing her candidacy Wednesday for the State Senate in a race that’s expected to put her head-to-head with Assemblywoman Taylor Darling in the Democratic primary.

There is more to be done to protect and conserve our drinking water, and there is more to be done to support our local businesses, and our labor leaders to build our economy and lead the way to full-time jobs and careers in trades.”

If Bynoe wants to be on the ballot next November, she’ll first have to get through a primary against Assemblywoman Taylor Darling, who already expressed inter-

est in the senate seat Thomas is vacating.

Darling did not respond to requests for comment at this time.

“There is not much to be excited about as a Democrat in Nassau County,” said David Chauvin, who helped organize the announcement ceremony. “But there is a jolt of excitement here. No other local politicians would get this type of turnout for an announcement about a senate race.”

Uniondale activist Jeannine Maynard says she’s ready to back Bynoe all the way to the end.

“I really have a lot of faith in her,” she said. Bynoe “has the mind that can look at policy and see not only what is there, but the gray areas of what people don’t see and how it will impact different communities.”

Bynoe says she believes in the power of community and combined efforts.

“Together, we can create positive change,” Bynoe said. “We can uplift our communities, and we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors today. We can exact change, and we can do that community by community.”

Bynoe’s top priority, if elected, would be to save public benefits and resources, she said. Like Nassau University Medical Center, located at the border of East Meadow, Uniondale and Westbury — which is the only Level One trauma and burn center on Long Island while also serving the most vulnerable residents of the county. At the same time, however, it is also Nassau’s most at-risk public hospital, as it continues to lose money.

“Many of these issues transcend communities and goes beyond politics,” Bynoe told the Herald after her speech. “I want to make sure that we preserve our natural resources, and ensure that we have an opportunity to build housing that is appropriate for each community. But my number one priority is going to be saving and sustaining NUMC.”

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Professional pianist Nobuzane hosts jazz concert

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

As the community is starting to jump into the holiday spirit, one of Uniondale’s newest residents took matters into her own hands to spread joy this season.

Miho Nobuzane, who is a professional pianist and recently moved to Uniondale less than a year ago, hosted a holiday-themed jazz concert in the large auditorium at the library.

Her quartet, featuring Benjamin Willis on bass, Kurganov Boris on both the violin and saxophone, and the legendary jazz musician, Victor Jones, on drums.

The concert featured all of the holiday classics — such as Santa Claus is coming to town, rockin’ around the Christmnas tree, Rudolph the red-nose reindeer, jingle bells, and more. Not to mention, they also performed original music pieces composed by Nobuzane herself.

Nobuzane, who is originally from Osaka, Japan, began playing the piano at age four during her attendance at the Yamaha Music School. She graduated from Kobe Yamate Women’s Junior College with a degree in classical piano.

After arriving in New York almost 20 years ago, Nobuzane has since performed at many big name places throughout the city, such as The Blue Note, Iridium, B.B. King’s, The Cutting Room, The Lincoln Center, and many more — now adding the Uniondale public library to her list of historical venues that she has played at.

“I just moved to Uniondale a year ago so it was very nice to play for the community,” Nobuzane said after the concert.

“I hope I get the opportunity to play more for them,” she said with enthusiasm.

“I really enjoyed the show, it was great,” said Valerie Fong, who came all the way from Central Islip to hear the jazz music she is an enthusiast of. Fong says she enjoyed not only the Christmas tunes, but also Nobuzane’s original music as well.

“I think they make very beautiful music together.”

— Brandon Cruz

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Brandon Cruz/Herald photos

The Miho Quartet performing at a holiday-themed concert at the Uniondale public library on Sunday. From left: Miho Nobuzane on piano, Benjamin Willis on bass, Victor Jones on drums, and Kurganov Boris on both the violin and saxophone.

The Miho Quartet after the holiday-themed concert at the Uniondale public library on Sunday. From left: Miho Nobuzane, Benjamin Willis, Victor Jones, and Kurganov Boris.

Some of the crowd watching on and cheering as the Miho Quartet performs their holiday-themed songs at this past Sunday’s concert at the Uniondale public library.

Miho Nobuzane on piano, and Benjamin Willis on bass, rocking out together during the holiday-themed concert at the Uniondale public library this past Sunday.

Library employee, Marianne Erikson, got lost in the music and couldn’t help herself when it came to dancing.

HanukkaH MEssagE

E

It’s a Hanukkah message of hope

interacted with each other as if the war very year, as it comes to a close, was not taking place. They allowed each many of us welcome the joys of other to breathe the fresh air of peace the holiday season, bringing its and camaraderie — however temporary messages of hope, family get— in a way that was unique to the histotogethers, generosity, and the overall ry of warfare. It was dubbed the “Christfeeling of goodwill into our communimas Truce.” ties.

That grassroots truce, The light abounds. The despite its ephemeral nature, cheer is alive in the air. And became a symbol for the idea the feelings of warmth that wars are fought by powdespite the colder weather ers and governments, and are palpable. that the individuals doing And yet, each year has its the fighting would rather hurdles and impediments bask in an aura of peace and that cause the holiday spirit fraternity. to be dampened. Poverty As a Jew, I celebrate exists. Wars and suffering Hanukkah — the Festival of continue. The past few years Lights — a holiday that is all had Covid-19 in our midst.

Rabbi abE about the triumph of the And there is always someindependent human spirit thing that keeps our feelings LEbOViC over those of darkness and of potential joy tempered autocratic rule. The Jews of with those of sorrow. the ancient land of Israel were being But this season is powerful and has told that they were to cease to follow the ability to change the way people their religion and way of life while the think, feel and conduct themselves. Hisholiest of their sacred spaces were desetory teaches us this. crated by a Syrian-Greek empire that In 1914, during the first year of World insisted that their pagan way of life War I, soldiers on both sides of the would rule the day. The Jews thought Allied and Central powers on the Westotherwise, and fought for their right to ern Front put down their arms in the weeks leading up to Christmas, and even live and worship according to their tra-

Guest Column

dition, culminating in a lopsided military victory in favor of the underdog, and the lighting of the Menorah in a rededicated Holy Temple in Jerusalem via a miraculous jug of oil that lasted eight days instead of the expected one.

Over the centuries, this holiday of light — Hanukkah — came to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness. Of good over evil — wherever that moral scale showed its face. It is the festival of lights in that one is expected to kindle the Menorah for eight nights, but is a metaphor as well for bringing more light into a world in which, all too often, darkness seems to find too comfortable a home.

Hanukkah declares that light, goodness and truth will always triumph over darkness, evil, lies and misinformation.

Whichever faith tradition you belong to — Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, or any other, or none — at this time of year, let the Jewish Festival of Lights influence your own tradition to claim a world where darkness and its shadows find no refuge.

And allow you to proclaim the virtues of a world where light and truth reign supreme.

We all have those instincts, but we do not always have the courage to express

them and live by them. And, for some of us, those instincts might be covered and neglected. Some are uncomfortable making the first move in the direction of light.

And some might be afraid of declaring this truth in circles where other, darker views are being expressed.

But there always has to be a first, and like those soldiers during World War I who brought on those peaceful moments during a war that killed millions, there were probably a first few who decided that during a lull in the fighting, why not call out the futility of war by invoking the humanity of the fellow soldier in the trench across the way? The rest followed, knowing that was the direction they wanted to go, and the place they would rather be.

This Hanukkah and holiday season, why don’t you become that first soldier who introduces a more peaceful, compassionate, and illuminated way for us humans to get along on this earth together?

A happy Hanukkah and holiday season to all.

Rabbi Abe Lebovic is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Israel in Hempstead.

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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

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Diocese claims $200M ‘best,’ ‘final’ offer

By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre has made what it says is its “best and final proposal” toward a settlement with the more the 600 people who accused the church of child sexual abuse.

In question is the Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection the diocese filed three years ago, with church officials saying they are willing to amend its reorganization plan to compensate those victims through a $200 million fund the church would set up.

This particular offer isn’t new. In fact, it was made last February, entitling victims to a minimum cash payment of $100,000 for some lawsuits, while others would receive an immediate cash payment of $50,000.

The proposed payout is the largest settlement offer made in any diocesan case to date, according to church spokesman, Sean Dolan — both on a total payout and per-claimant basis.

“Further litigation will delay compensation for all survivors,” Dolan said, in a release. It also “may result in unfair compensation for many survivors, and could ultimately leave some survivors with no compensation at all. Instead of continuing to fund lawyers’ fees, this money is better spent compensating survivors.”

The Diocese of Rockville Centre — the eighth largest in the nation — filed for bankruptcy in late 2020 after hundreds of lawsuits were filed against it following Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s approval of the Child Victims Act. Passed in 2019, the law significantly extended the statute of limitations on sexual abuse claims.

Lawyers for the diocese and the victims met with Judge Martin Glenn ahead of the church filing its amended proposal last week.

“From the committee’s perspective, the plan they

NOW LEASING

/

Herald file photo

The Diocese of Rockville Centre hopes to move forward on a settlement with the more than 600 people who have made claims of sexual abuse against the church. have filed is the same one that we have said ‘no’ to,” James Stang, the attorney representing the victims and other creditors, said.

While the diocese has provided a lump sum of its total finances, Stang says church leaders would need to disclose finances on a parish-by-parish basis in order to get the support of his clients. In order for the plan to move forward, the church would need to get 75

percent of its creditors represented by Stang to approve it.

Yet, rejecting the plan may lead to the dismissal of the bankruptcy case, church officials said, potentially forcing roughly 40 percent of victims to move their claims off the federal docket and back to state court.

“The diocese has already made it clear that it is at the end of its resources,” Dolan said. “Contrary to assertions that additional funds are available to increase settlements, no independent Catholic organizations are being offered releases through the diocese’s proposed plan other than those that will participate in funding the settlement trusts.”

Should the creditors represented by Stang continue to prolong or even dismiss the case, Dolan says it will ensure payments to victims will only go lower than the current settlement offer.

“The diocese hopes that all parties — including survivors and their legal advisors —will vote in favor of the equitable and unprecedented offer in the plan,” Dolan said. “Survivors deserve compensation now, and the diocese’s charitable mission is more important than ever in these uncertain times. Both face a vulnerable and uncertain future if the plan is rejected.”

Mary McKenna, the New York state representative for the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, says her organization is “extremely disappointed” the Rockville Centre diocese has refused to budge from its settlement offer.

“It’s a slap in the face to the victims,” McKenna said. The diocese “spent $100 million fighting the victims, and offered them $100,000 if they want to quickly take a deal.

“It doesn’t make sense. These children were raped, and their lives were destroyed. The damage is lifelong.”

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December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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Nassau County, Sands kick off holiday season

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

By BRANDON CRUZ bcruz@liherald.com

Sands New York has been trying to engrain itself into the Nassau County community, hoping to create a home right here in Uniondale.

As part of this effort, Sands treated the community to what they called the “Season of Sparkle,” where a majestic 60-foot Christmas Tree, wrapped with festive lights, took center stage outside of the Nassau Coliseum, alongside a Hanukkah Menorah and a Kwanzaa Kinara, officially kicking off the the holiday season in the county.

“Events like this are the things that cement the community together,” said Matty Aricich, president of the building and constructions trade council — who will be responsible for building the new state-of-the-art luxury casino and resort on the very same property, “this is a community event, not a Sands event.”

Aricich also said the turnout for these festivities exceeded even their own expectations, “we were expecting about 1,800 people, we ended up with over 6,800.”

The first 2,500 attendees were pleasantly surprised with free food vouchers that were redeemable at any of the 10 different food trucks that were present. The air was filled with festive cheer, and the holiday spirit was palpable as families enjoyed holiday mini-golf, posed for pictures with a human Christmas Tree, and took advantage of many other festive activities and photo opportunities.

Sands also blessed the stage with a star-studded lineup of performances, including Sal “The Voice” Valentinetti — a Nassau resident who competed on America’s Got Talent, Christian Guardino, another resident who was an American Idol contestant, as well as the talented Uniondale High School Show Choir, Cuban Entertainer Osmay Calvo and his 13 Piece Band, and Emcee Carl and his Holiday Elves.

Keeping the theme of giving, Sands

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Tim Baker/Herald photos

Young cousins from Mineola and Farmingdale cuddle together, enjoying the lights, at the ‘Season of Sparkle’ celebration. The Egners — 2-year-old Artie, 3-year-old Anna and 3-year-old Jonah — took in a free game of mini-golf during the festivities. organized a Toys-for-Tots toy drive as part of the event. Attendees were encouraged to contribute to the cause by bringing new, unwrapped toys to the celebration, spreading joy to those in need during the holiday season.

“These are the things we do at the Sands groups,” said Sands chief executive Rob Goldstein. “We throw big parties, we do good things for the community, and we’re thrilled to be with you and we thank everyone for their support.”

Sal ‘The Voice’ Valentinetti — who took himself from delivering pizza on Long Island to competing on ‘America’s Got Talent’ — entertains at ‘Season of Sparkle.’

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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Herald’s latest senior health expo is a hit

By Alexa Anderwkavich The O’Connell Gardens in Oceanside hosted the Herald’s Health & Beyond Expo on Nov. 16 — the last expo this year.

This community-favorite event featured more than 35 businesses and service providers sharing their expertise with Long Island residents. HearingLife conducted free hearing examinations.

Mount Sinai South Nassau provided free blood pressure tests.

And, thanks to Parker at your Door, Parker Jewish Institute Mobile Vaccination Station there was to provide free Covid-19 and flu vaccines.

Attendees enjoyed snacks and coffee, as well as panel discussions led by Lori Berger, sales director for Herald Community Newspapers, who cracked a few jokes.

Panelists included Lauren Block from Vishnick McGovern Milizio, Ana Arevalo from CenterLIght Health System, Jill Wasser from the state’s public service department, and Pablo Rendon from Parker Jewish Institute for Healthcare & Rehabilitation.

Guests received goody bags filled with the expo’s special section, keepsakes, and valuable take-home materials. Raffle prizes included tickets to “The Play That Goes Wrong” as well as “Illuminate NY,” a half-dozen cookies from Chip City Oceanside, gift certificate for a dozen bagels from Cino’s Hot Bagels, and manicurepedicure — or just manicure — gift certificate from Ivy Nail & Spa. The first 175 guests received a packaged lunch thanks to Bagel Boss of Hewlett, complete with a wrap — choice of Caesar salad, veggie tuna and egg salad — coleslaw and a pickle.

The expo’s success was made possible by Silver Sponsors: Long Beach Rehabilitation and Assisted Living (Cassena Care), Aetna, New York State Department of Public Services, Centerlight Healthcare, Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehabilitation, Silver Lining Homecare, and Vishnick McGovern Milizio, as well as the gift bag sponsor, Grandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center Both guests and vendors eagerly anticipate the next expos to take place in 2024. Stay up to date with upcoming events, webinars and expos at RichnerLive.com.

For more information about senior health expos — or to become a sponsor or vendor — contact Amanda Marte at (516) 569-4000, Ext. 219, or at amarte@ liherald.com.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Pablo Rendon, Dennis Perez and Betsy Pierre-Louis from Parker Jewish Institute were providing free Covid-19 and flu vaccines to those attending the recent Herald Health & Beyond Expo in Oceanside.

Panelist Lauren Block from Vishnick McGovern Milizio shared with attendees everything you need to know about estate planning.

Panelist Jill Wasser from the state’s public services department.

Ana Arevalo and Debbie D’Amato from Centerlight Healthcare PACE.

Event silver sponsors from Silver Living HomeCare say hello.

To view more photos, visit RichnerLive.com

The event’s gift bag sponsor was Grandell Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.

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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

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Rain didn’t stop largest collection in America

By BRANDON CRUZ bcruz@liherald.com

One of the largest Toys-for-Tots collection drives in the country started right here in Nassau County, in the parking lot of Martino Auto Concepts in Glen Cove.

13 years later, this event remains a staple of the community’s efforts to provide for the less fortunate — and has since outgrown the auto concepts parking lot — taking in a new home at the Nassau Coliseum.

“Who would ever think that from that effort so many years ago, we would be here today hosting the largest collection in the nation,” said Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton about the event, “not only do we normally collect enough for Nassau County, but we usually collect enough to help Suffolk and the five boroughs.”

Despite heavy rain dampening the morning, Joe LaPadula, co-owner of Martino Auto Concepts who started this collection with Jon Holzer in 2010, says this year they have collected well over 100,000 toys, with an official number yet to be determined.

“As you can see — rain, snow, or shine, the people come out to donate for a good cause,” said LaPadula, “a new, unwrapped toy is a symbol of hope, and I am grateful to work with the Marines Toys for Tots Program alongside so

Brandon Cruz/Herald

Kasper Domanski and Sandra Lesniewski, who came all the way from West Babylon to donate, giving away multiple bags full of freshly purchased toys from Target. many community leaders, corporate sponsors, and volunteers,” LaPadula continued.

“We are so grateful to everyone who works so diligently year after year to

make this event such a tremendous success,” said Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton, “I’m especially grateful for the tireless efforts of Joe LaPadula and Jon Holzer of Martino Auto Concepts, and thankful

for everything that the Nassau County Police Department, our partners in law enforcement, and the county executive’s team do each year to support this philanthropic mission.”

Although this giveaway takes place right in this community’s backyard, it drew residents from all over the island, like Kasper Domanski and Sandra Lesniewski from West Babylon, and Chris Crisera from North Babylon — who all came out with bags full of donations for children in need.

“It feels good to give back for the holidays,” said Crisera, who also had his Mustang on display at the event for patrons to take photos with and look at, “knowing that what I’m giving is going to someone less fortunate during this time of year.”

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman also made an appearance towards the end of the morning, thanking all who donated and helped put this giveaway together.

“I would like to thank USMC Toys for Tots for hosting one of the biggest toy drives of the year even in the midst of a heavy downpour,” Blakeman said.

“They managed to collect over 75,000 new, unwrapped toys for children in need. So many children from all walks of life will now have a happy holiday season because of USMC toys for tots and the gracious donors all across Nassau County.”

Byrne Community Center readies for Santa’s arrival

By BRANDON CRUZ bcruz@liherald.com

The John J. Byrne Community Center is set to undergo a magical transformation into a festive winter wonderland on Dec. 9, setting the stage for an enchanting event that aims to transcend the boundaries of holiday festivity.

The community’s children are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to “meet Santa,” a yearly occasion hosted by the community center that holds profound significance within the heart of this neighborhood.

D a v i d G r e av e s , t h e DAvID GReAves Ppesident of the president Community CenJohn J. Byrne ter, describes the Community Center event as more than just a gathering—it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of Uniondale.

“It’s a delightful occasion that promises to weave the magic of the holidays into the hearts of the community,” explains Greaves, “the community center, by providing a platform where festive traditions

I

t’s a delightful occasion that promises to weave the magic of the holidays into the hearts of the community.

Courtesy Uniondale Community Center

Santa Claus handing out gifts at last year’s ‘Meet Santa’ event, hosted by the John J. Byrne Community Center. are cherished and shared, serves as a catalyst for strengthening the fabric of the community. It’s a place where memories are made, and the holiday spirit is alive and well,” adds Greaves.

This holiday spectacle is made possible through a remarkable collaboration among local businesses and organizations, exemplified by the contributions of the Charmaine Robin Insurance Agency, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Island Harvest.

Greaves emphasizes that these collaborations underscore the vital role of local

entities in supporting community initiatives. “These collaborations underscore the importance of local businesses and organizations in supporting community initiatives,” he said.

“These local sponsors have not just contributed resources, they have poured their hearts into ensuring that the event encapsulates the joy and warmth of the season.”

Scheduled to run from 11 am to 3 pm, the “Meet Santa” event aims to transcend being a simple occasion for children to share their holiday wishes with Santa

Claus. It aims to serve as a community celebration that bridges differences and unites people from all walks of life within the same neighborhood.

According to Greaves, the generosity of this year’s sponsors have paved the way for a plethora of activities and attractions, ensuring there’s something entertaining for everyone, including the parents.

From fun-filled games to delightful holiday treats, each aspect of the event is designed to spread cheer and create an inclusive atmosphere where every member of the community feels welcome.

David Greaves and The John J. Byrne Community Center extends a heartfelt invitation to all members of the community to join in this celebration. He describes it as an opportunity to come together, share in the joy of the season, appreciate the strength of the community, and envision a future where such collaborations continue to enrich lives.

The president of the John J. Byrne Community Center extends a heartfelt invitation to all members of the community to join in this celebration, which he describes as an opportunity to come together, share in the joy of the season, appreciate the strength of the community, and envision a future where such collaborations continue to enrich lives.

Together, Greaves hopes that the Community Center can help brighten the collective holiday spirit for everyone in Uniondale, showcasing the power of unity, generosity, and community spirit.

Kanter Freedom pushes for food donations pschug@liherald.com

Enes Kanter Freedom wants to pay forward his positive experience of becoming an American citizen by feeding the hungry in Nassau County. And Emily Austin — an online personality and Hewlett Harbor resident — plans to do the same.

The former New York Knicks player and Austin joined Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman recently to launch the annual food drive in collaboration with the Harry Chapin Food Bank from Long Island Cares.

“We’re very happy to have all of us here today, talking about people who are struggling paycheck-to-paycheck, who might not have the ability to have hot meals and good meals during this holiday season,” Blakeman said.

Austin and Kanter Freedom are ready to do their part, using their large social media platforms to make it happen.

“I have a huge following now, especially with the social media and the apps and the kids out there, following me and idolizing me,” said Kanter Freedom, who moved to the United States as a teenager from Turkey, and became a citizen in 2021 “I think it’s important to put the right message out there. My one message for everybody is have some empa-

■ The Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building at 1550 Franklin Ave., in Mineola Parker Schug/Herald

Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom, left, joined other local personalities like Emily Austin, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip and Long Island Cares chief Paule Pachter calling on neighbors to donate to the Holiday Food Drive through Dec. 15. thy, have some sympathy. Don’t only look at your table. Think about other people — what they’re going through — and try to help people in-need.”

Austin had a similar message to share.

“It took me many years to actually understand that there are people in this world — let alone in Nassau County and

the state of New York — that don’t know when they’re going to eat next, or go to sleep hungry, or have children to feed and have to sacrifice from their own food,” she said. “With that, I do feel an obligation to sympathize, and understand that it’s our obligation to help those that need the help.”

Paule Pachter, chief executive of

■ The administration building lobby in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow ■ Uniondale Museum Row at the Children’s Museum, Cradle of Aviation and Firefighters Museum ■ The Cantiague Park skating rink in Hicksville ■ The administration building at Grant Park in Hewlett.

Donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted until Dec. 15.

For more information visit NassauCountyNY.gov.

Support yourlocal localSmall Small Businesses Businesses this season.

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(516) 253-0124 info@NCChambers.org www.NCChambers.org

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Long Island Cares, says the food bank and services have been seeing the most people in need since the coronavirus pandemic.

“Already, we know that there are 230,000 people on Long Island struggling to get food onto their table,” he said.

“Now were looking at numbers closer to 300,000 and 325,000. And that includes 65,000 children.”

A lot of that growth has come from the higher cost of food, Pachter added, with the average shopping basket being 35 to 40 percent more expensive than what it was even a couple years ago.

Those looking to donate can drop food at:

By PARKER SCHUG

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December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

12

STEPPING OUT

13

Holiday

Cherish the Ladies

with

Laurie Berkner

By Danielle Schwab

Laurie Berkner remains at the forefront of the kids music scene. And she’s ready to share some holiday cheer with her fans — as only she can. Everyone will have a jolly good time when Berkner visits Long Island to ring in the holidays, next Sunday, Dec. 17, Creative on The Paramount stage. advocacy

STEPPING OUT

“I’m so excited to be heading back to The Paramount,” Berkner enthuses. “I love playing there, and the energy in the room is always so high and will be filled with the joy of the season.”

Her upcoming show is one of her first live performances of tunes from her newest holiday album ”Another Laurie Berkner Christmas.” She’ll sing “I Live Inside a Snowglobe (Shake It Up)” and other new songs, along with such classic favorites as “Deck the Halls” and “Holly Jolly Christmas.”

The rest of the program features traditional and original holiday songs that fans know and love, including “Jingle Bells,” “Candy Cane Jane” and “The Dreidel Song.” Of, course, a Laurie Berkner concert always includes an array of her greatest hits, such as “We Are Bloom but instead, I started singing

By Karen WHERE the Dinosaurs” and “Waiting for the Elevator,” and she’ll ‘Marco has a pig on his deliver. Plus, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of her head.’ Then all the kids Can art album, change the world? question WHEN “Buzz Buzz,” she’ll sing theIt’s title a track to that as grabbed toy animals and well that family favorite, “Pig on Her Head.” put them on their heads, ••Sunday, 11 a.m. that’s beenBerkner at the focusfamilies of our collective SaturdayDec. and17, Sunday, noon-4 has delighted for more than 25 and I started singing to all of • $20.50-$88.50, plus p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, years with her creative and catchy tunes. With 15 them.” applicable fees; available culture for albums centuries.

Now society — and more on the as way — she proudly Berkner went on to 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Ticketmaster.com or retains her title as the “Queen of Kindie Rock.” record the song, now a •ParamountNY.com Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, navigates the The complexities modern first recording artist of to perform in musiclife, concert staple.

South Campus, Hempstead.

• The Paramount, 370 New videos on Nick Jr., her original songs, music “It’s turned into this big, For information and to RSVP, York Ave., Huntington art as a path forbooks social change is at the videos, (along three original off-Broadway physical interactive element call (516) 463-5672, or visit are seemingly everywhere — including in my shows,” she adds.

Hofstra.edu/museum forefront ofmusicals) artistic expression.

NBCUniversal’s “Sprout House,” and the Laurie Not only are “animals on Berkner Band’s YouTube channel. heads,” but they’re also in everyone’s hearts. One dollar Being inspired kids made for an “easy” of each ticket sold will be donated to Little Shelter “When We All Stand,” Hofstra UniversitybyMuseum of Art’s new exhibition, examines transition her rock band days, according to Animal Rescue. the collective power of the arts in from society.

Berkner, also a former preschool music teacher.

Curated by Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and For families who can’t snag concert tickets, be She pivoted to her full-time career as a children’s sure to enjoy some holiday magic at home. Berkner’s collection — the exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence. performer when she saw the impact her latest YouTube Christmas special features many of her “It highlights the vital role “kindie” that artistssongs havehad in activating not only democratic on kids, butvalues that holiday songs. She also releases a free show about once promise equality and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,”a month on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. In the the parents, too.

Giordano says. “Artists often lead the charge and expose thatofmay “I had this truths moment like,otherwise be new year, there may also be some new music to keep a ignored. The artists in this exhibition take a standthis andiscall outI injustices through theirlookout art what want to do for. with my life. That’s how “I’m always recording some new music,” Berkner and activism on issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, I want tolled. spend it.”all combine thehints. voting rights, racial bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfi They making Berkner still of art with public service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their A sequel for the musical “Interstellar Cinderella” — channels her rocker’sand inspire others one communities and the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, to of Berkner’s theatre projects — is in the works as passion to all she does. well. stand with them.”

“I bring that rock sensibility to my Her goal remains strengthening those family This exhibit, which runs through Julyand 28, in is in Hofstra’s shows myconjunction songs,” shewith says. connections.

13th presidential conference on the Barack presidency coming up in April.

She Obama encourages her audience “I think it’s hard when you’re parents — or even “We were interested in the ideato that theout artist hasher, a civic responsibility,” says rock with moving their kids — trying to get kids to do things,” she says. “It’s museum director Karen Albert. “The initial idea exhibition was inspired by not easy for them, especially if you are working, or have bodies, all for thethis while with plenty of an Obama Administration White Houselaughter. briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, more than one child.”

She attributes heradministration success where more than 60 artists and creative organizers met with officials to She strives to make her 75-minute shows a time of to build listening to kids and being discuss the collective power of the arts to community, create change, and charttogetherness. reminded of what shecivic liked when “I want this to be a space where a whole family can a pathway for national recovery in the areas of social justice, participation and she was younger. come and parents can relax and enjoy the music while activism.” “’Pig on Her Head’ I wrote the kids feel totally engaged and want to be there,” To that end, unlike other recent exhibits thatI taught showcased the because music atmuseum’s day care. she said..”They leave with that happy positive memory permanent collection, Giordano reachedWhen out toI contemporary who loaned together.” walked in one artists day and the museum their selected works. Some 36 are onto view — one representing wepieces were about start, As always, Berkner instructs her fans (reminder all media — from Emma Amos, Molly Crabapple and the Equal kid, Marco, looked at Justice me andInitiative, really not needed) to “bring your dancing shoes and a thenHank put aWillis toy pig on hisand head.

I stuffed animal for your head.” Get ready to join in the For Freedoms, Miguel Luciano, Michele Pred, Thomas, Sophia could have been a disciplinarian, holiday spirit and sing along.

Victor.

“The way our climate is now, this exhibit could not be more timely than at this moment,” Albert adds.

Among the highlights, she points to the series of prints from the

The holiday spirit bursts forth with music that embodies the beauty of the season, Celtic style. Now in their 38th year, Cherish the Ladies continues to delight audiences, under the leadership of All-Ireland flute and whistle champion Joanie Madden — named by The Irish Voice as one of the Top 25 most influential Irish Americans of the past quarter-century.

The decades have included world tours, concerts at the White House and the Olympics, and numerous critically acclaimed albums, including their Emmy award-winning special, ‘An Irish Homecoming,’ on PBS. Their spectacular blend of virtuoso instrumental talents, glorious vocals, captivating arrangements, and lively step dancing demonstrates their ability to take the best of Irish traditional music and dance, and put it forth in an immensely entertaining show.

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

Jingles all the way!

Pat McGann

Sunday, Dec. 10, p.m. $47, Pat7McGann is quickly rising as $41, $37. Jeanne Rimsky of the sharpest stand-ups on th Theater at Landmark MainA relative lateco comedyonscene.

Street, 232 Main St., Port he began doing stan to comedy, Washington. (516) or up at767-6444 31 after realizing he was n LandmarkOnMainStreet.org. very good at selling packaging.

He hustled his way to become t house emcee at Zanies Chicago where he distinguished himself especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father o three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage. In 2017, McGann began touring as the opening a for Sebastian Maniscalco, movin with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square ‘A Celtic Christmas’ Garden. McGann’s relatively sho but impressive resume, includes The Madison Theatre also celebrates Montreal’s famed the season Celtic-style.

Enjoy someJust For Laugh Festival, Gilda’s The ’Celtic Christmas’ when A Taste LaughFest, of Great American Ireland visits Molloy University onComedy Festiva and more.

McGann still calls its U.S. tour. Immerse yourself in Chicago home. the magnificence of the traditional Celtic landscape, and let the magic Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $ of Christmas in Saturday, Ireland transport $30, The Paramount, 370 you to a world full of$25. excitement New York Ave., Huntington. (80 and wonder, with energeticormusic 745-3000 Ticketmaster.com and dance that ParamountNY.com. embodies the festive season. Featuring a powerful mix of traditional tunes, heartfelt ballads and beloved carols, ‘Celtic Christmas’ combines dynamic rhythms and top Irish dancing talent for an evening of musical storytelling enhanced by Irish charm. Choreographed and produced by multiple national champion and star of Gaelforce Dance & Rhythms of Ireland, Brent Pace, and world champion/Lord of the Dance lead soloist Ceili Moore, this is a festive spectacular that leaves audiences wanting more. Yarn/Wire Now in its 18th year, Adelphi University’s ‘new music’ Sunday, Dec. 10, 6 p.m. Molloy welcomes Yarn/Wire.

University, 1000series Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre.

For New York-based The intrepid tickets and information, visit piano-percussion quartet has MadisonTheatreNY.org, or call (516) forged a singular path with 323-4444. endlessly inventive collaboration commissions and performances that have made a significant contribution to the canon of

Your Neighborhood

On exhibit

THE Dec.

Emily King

The soulful pop singer-songwriter visits the Landmark stage on her first solo tour, Saturday, dec. 16, 8 p.m. Like so many of music’s most essential singer-songwriters, Emily King has a near-magical gift for digging into life’s deepest sorrows and uncovering unexpected beauty and illuminating truth. Since the arrival of her Grammy Awardnominated full-length debut album East Side Story, the New York City-bred artist has brought ever-evolving levels of depth and nuance to her songwriting, rooting each revelation in her mesmerizing blend of soul and R&B and forward-thinking pop. On her latest (fourth full length) album Special Occasion, King shares a real-time exploration of the endless dimensions of heartbreak — an inquiry informed by the end of her romantic relationship. King and longtime producer Jeremy Most (Grammy nominated producer and multi-instrumentalist) collaborated closely on every track for an intimate and infinitely enchanting look at the ways we love, grieve, and eventually stumble toward a greater sense of self-understanding. Her lush and polished vocals serve as the perfect vehicle for her carefully crafted compositions. With pop, rock and those R&B influences, King has quickly become a favorite among fellow musicians and fans alike. $48, $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

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MORE UNBUBBLIEVABLE THAN EVER!

“ IT WILL BLOW YOUR-OPMRAHIND!” -OPRAH

Family theater It’s a beautiful sunny summer day in the meadow. Leo Lionni’s beloved children’s books come to life, in “Frederick,” on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Friday, dec. 8, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, dec. 9, 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; also Tuesday through Thursday, dec. 12-14, 10:15 a.m. and noon. Mouse friends Nellie, Sunny, Baby, Ernest, and Frederick are playing their musical instruments and having fun singing, until a leaf falls from the sky — autumn is here! Winter will be coming soon. All the mice get to work gathering supplies for winter, except, where is Frederick? He is gathering supplies, too, in his own unique way. With toe-tapping Americana music inspired by bluegrass, gospel, and folk, Frederick is an engaging, energetic story about the power of the arts, community, and that no mouse gets left behind. $10 with museum admission ($8 members), $14 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Our Gilded Age,” examines the appearances and the realities of an era that mirrors our own in many ways.

Like the nation’s economy, American art and literature flourished during the Gilded Age. It was an exuberant age of excess with its own secret flaws, including widespread fraud. The art of John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Louis Comfort Tiffany and others adorned palatial residences designed by Stanford White and Ogden Codman Jr., architect of the museum’s own quintessential Gilded Age mansion. Drawing heavily upon the local literary history of Long Island, including William Cullen Bryant, Mark Twain (who named the Gilded Age), Walt Whitman, Edith Wharton and others, the exhibition will include paintings, fashion, decorative arts including period silver and china, photographs, manuscripts, first editions and other historic memorabilia. The “Upstairs, Downstairs” approach to the life of a country house brings to life not only the storied conspicuous consumption for which the Gilded Age was infamous, but also the real lives of these many individuals who maintained the palatial estates where that lifestyle was enjoyed.

On view through March 10.

Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Christmas Celebration

Decembe 1238370

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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GET TICKETS

r 16 th & 1 th 7

2PM & 6PM SHOWS FOR TICKETS CALL 516.323.4444 OR VISIT WWW.MADISONTHEATRENY.ORG

1000 HEMPSTEAD AVE, ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 1239280

Winter FUNderland

A Motown Christmas Plaza Theatricals invites everyone to celebrate the holidays in true Motown style, Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of soulful tunes, joyful dancing and nostalgic vibes at an electrifying Motown holiday party. Get ready to groove, spread the festive cheer, and make unforgettable memories. Performance is at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. $35, $30 seniors.

Elmont. For tickets, visit PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870.

Dec.

7

Let’s Skate Fun with art Families can enjoy an arts-filled day at Nassau County Museum of Art, with author and illustrator Tim Miller as he reads his newest book, “Izzy Paints,” Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. The program includes an illustration demo and an immersive artmaking activity designed to activate imaginations and creativity. Miller is the author-illustrator of “Moo Moo in a Tutu,” “What’s Cooking, Moo Moo?,” and “Tiny Kitty, Big City.” He’s also illustrated numerous other books. $20, $10 children and members.

Reservations required.

Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9338 or NassauMuseum.org.

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, now through Jan. 7. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

Having an event?

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

Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House offers a festive glimpse of early 20th century holiday merriment, before it closes for the winter, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9-10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Also Dec. 16-17. The “Christmas at Westbury House” celebration reflects what the festive season was like during those opulent decades of the early 1900s when the Phipps family lived there. The period rooms in which John S. Phipps — the eldest son of Henry Phipps, Andrew Carnegie’s partner at Carnegie Steel — and his family resided are impeccably decorated with wreaths, mantelpiece drapes, plenty of greenery, and other horticultural arrangements.

Take a self-guided tour through Westbury House and view specially decorated rooms for the holidays, have cookies and cider on the West Porch and meet and take photos with Santa while listening to ambient holiday music. The gardens will also be open, along with other special holiday events, including Holiday Flute Choir concert, Dec. 10, 2 p.m., and Girl Scouts Chorus, Dec. 16, 1 p.m. $15, $13 ages 62+ and students, $8 ages 7-17. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or call (516) 333-0048.

Bird walk The South Shore Audubon Society welcomes all to join its members for another in its series of bird walks, at Mill Pond Park in Wantagh, Sunday, Dec. 10, starting at 9 a.m. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet at the gazebo in the Park on the north side of Merrick Road, 4 blocks west of Wantagh State Parkway. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit SSAudubon.org.

Holiday concert Join the Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus for “Peace on Earth - A Holiday Journey Around the World,” a musical celebration of the spirit of the season, Friday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m., at Cathedral of the Incarnation. Tickets are $25 and available at the door and online at LIGMC.org/concerts.50 Cathedral Avenue, Garden City.

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UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

Epilepsy Foundation Long Island hosts a holiday event for children with epilepsy and their families, Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. It’s open to children with epilepsy, their siblings and their parents.

Pediatric neurologist Dr. Robin Varughese, with Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center, presents an educational lecture for parents. Kids can enjoy activities and meet others with epilepsy. Pizza and snacks will be served.

The event is held at EPIC Long Island, 1500 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow.

Pre-registration is required.

Contact Janet Romeo at (516) 739-7733, option 1, Ext. 145, or email jromeo@epicli.org.

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Holiday at Westbury House

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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Long Island’s Top Chiefs inspire, innovate Inaugural event from RichnerLive, Herald Community Newspapers draws hundreds

By Danielle Schwab Friends, family and colleagues gathered last week to honor the hard work and dedication of Long Island’s corporate and nonprofit leaders.

There were more than 50 in all, representing nearly a dozen categories as part of the premiere Herald Top Chief Officers of Long Island awards gala at the Heritage Club at Bethpage. Leaders were recognized in groups that included accounting and banking, development and real estate, education, entertainment and hospitality, health care, human resources, manufacturing, not-for-profit, technology, tourism, transportation, utilities and unions.

“When you take a look of the list of honorees, it’s pretty good company,” said Marc Perez, president of Bank of America Long Island. “I’m excited about it.”

Those were the kinds of sentiments shared by Jack Khzouz, chief executive of NICE buses, who has been with that organization since its beginning in 2012.

“Of course, I feel great about getting honored tonight,” Khzouz said, “but it’s more about the team, what the team does, and how we’re able to help each other get things done. We have 850 employees and provide services for 70,000 residents a day.”

Among the accounting and banking honorees was Renu Dalessandro, the chief marketing officer of Jovia Financial Credit Union.

“It’s such a great opportunity to highlight and showcase the neighbors of Long Island and the influence that they have on the community,” she said. “It speaks volumes. I wish my daughters were here tonight because these are the kind of things I want to instill in them — a great work ethic, great leadership, and being appreciated for the work that they do.”

Another winner, Steven Bush, leads Apple Bank as its chair, president and chief executive — an institution that just celebrated its 160th anniversary.

“It’s been a crazy year,” he said, “but we’ve come through just fine. I think it goes to our very loyal, longstanding depositor base.”

David Lyons, the interim president and chief operating officer of PSEG Long Island, says it was great to be recognized among utilities.

“I’m very proud of the people here,” he said, “as well as my own accomplishments.”

For many of the companies honored, the Herald Top Chief Officers of Long Island is a chance to talk about exciting projects they have been working on.

Ming Chiang, for example, is known for his leadership of Casual Home Worldwide. But made the trip out to Bethpage for another one of his companies, Biacomm — a zero-emissions industrial equipment startup.

“We manufacture solar power generators,” he said.

“We help with night construction, for fixing potholes and highways. The technology we have here uses a solar-powered alternative. We have a whole slew of other self-sustaining, high-tech products.”

New technology is one of the keys to the foundation of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s success, according to its honored leader, Adhi Sharma.

“We have so many excellent leaders on Long Island with such strong history that, to be included, is an honor,” he said.

“As leaders, our role is to inspire, set goals and support our teams,” Michael Lessing, chief executive of Lessing’s Hospitality Group, told the honorees. “When teams are empowered, motivated and work together cohesively, they can push our organizations to new heights.”

The dinner and award ceremony are reminders to the Long Island community about the people who support it.

“Recognizing business leaders is not just about acknowledging the successes,” said Amy Amato, exec-

Tim Baker/Herald photos

It was truly a crowd last week honoring local leaders as part of the inaugural Herald Top Chief Officers of Long Island awards gala at the Heritage Club at Bethpage.

Mark Stempel, left, of Blue Island Homes receives his award from Herald Community Newspapers publisher Stuart Richner. utive director of RichnerLive, which hosted the event with Herald Community Newspapers. “It’s about celebrating the driving force behind our local economy, and the innovation that shapes our community’s future.”

The Herald Top Chief Officers of Long Island was sponsored by Apple Bank, Lessing’s Hospitality Group, New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, Mount Sinai South Nassau, Biacomm, Douglas Elliman, and Prager Metis.

Other sponsors included St. Joseph’s University, Jovia Financial Credit Union, Long Island Cares, PSEG Long Island, UBS Arena, PBI Payroll, New York Institute of Technology, The Guide Dog Foundation, American Vet Dogs, Hofstra University, Blue Island Homes, Nassau Inter-County Express, and Sands New York.

To view the full list of honorees and photos, go to RichnerLive.com/chiefofficers.

Steven Bush of Apple Bank, gets his award from Stuart Richner.

Honoree Michael Lessing of Lessing’s Hospitality Group gives welcoming remarks.

17

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

Jason Thomas/Herald photos

Zaki Hossain, left, joins James Lentini of Molloy University and Rahat Hossain, right, of Pintail Coffee, at the Herald Top Chief Officers of Long Island ceremony last week.

John Miller, left, of the Guide Dog Foundation takes a moment to say hello to Ming Chiang of Casual Home Worldwide and event gold sponsor Biacomm.

Antoinette Biordi was the host of this year’s Top Chief Officers of Long Island event at the Heritage Club.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Marc Perez President of Bank of America Long Island.

Diane Walsh, left, and Marianna Mooney of Prager Metis CPAs.

Tom Bourgard, left, of Douglas Elliman, was one of the Top Chief Officers honorees.

Jack Khzouz, left, of NICE Bus, gets his award from Herald Community Newspapers publisher Stuart Richner.

Tracey Edwards of Sands New York, right, is handed her award

by Richner.

David Lyons of PSEG Long Island.

Honoree Renu Dalessandro of Jovia Financial Credit Union.

For more photos from the Top Chief Officers of Long Island — and for a full list of sponsors — visit RichnerLive.com/chiefofficers

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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Christina Daly/Herald file Juan Lasso/Herald file

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has demanded that Hofstra University President Susan Poser resign after she made what he described as remarks he said were ‘antithetical to good moral values.’ the support of Democratic Assemblyman Charles Lavine, who serves as president of the New York chapter of the National Association of Jewish Legislators.

Lavine described Poser’s comments as “every bit as condemnatory of Hamas as were the statements of other noteworthy leading university administrators.”

He believes Blakeman’s attack is “manuf actured” and intended as “revenge for Hofstra’s resistance to his

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Hofstra President Susan Poser is not backing away from comments she made following the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, and the subsequent conflict in Gaza, that were meant to address both Jewish and Palestinian students.

plan to redevelop the Hub.” There is no need, Lavine said, for “politicians threatening universities to teach only the narrow views that they espouse.”

Blakeman wrote to Lavine, saying the Assemblyman’s position is in-line with U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib and the informal group of far-left Democratic congressional members known as “The Squad.”

“To suggest only MAGA Republicans unequivocally condemn Hamas is

absurd,” Blakeman told Lavine, referring to supporters of former president Donald Trump. “I suspect you are aware that Sen. (Chuck) Schumer, Hillary Clinton and President Biden are not MAGA Republicans.”

Hofstra officials told the Herald in an email they do not know where Blakeman’s belief about an anti-American mindset in classrooms come from, calling them unsubstantiated, claims that do not reflect the reality of what happens in classrooms at Hofstra.

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sure that our children are being taught a balanced and fair history of what really is happening in the world.”

Blakeman’s call for Poser’s resignation comes during a major fight between the county and Hofstra over a proposed $4 billion redevelopment of the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale — a project that includes a controversial casino — not far from Hofstra’s campus.

Poser has expressed opposition to the casino, and the university sued Nassau County in court over the initial lease agreement between Blakeman and the Las Vegas Sands, claiming improper notice was given to the public over the meetings where the lease was approved.

A judge ruled partially in Hofstra’s favor last month, which could force the county to repeat the lease approval process, although an appellate judge later stayed that ruling pending appeal.

Blakeman told the Herald his opinion on Poser’s comments over Israel have nothing to do with her comments on the casino. It’s Israel’s right to “destroy a terrorist organization,” the county executive said, adding he believes too many professors in schools across the country are “anti-American and antisemitic,” and are funded by foreign governments that are hostile to American interests.

While a number of local leaders — both political and religious — have backed Blakeman on his stance against Poser, the county executive doesn’t have

Seventh year of the NCPD’s annual holiday toy giveaway

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

20

CoNTiNUED fRom PAgE 1

As the truck full of free toys approached the Walnut Street Elementary School entrance, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder traversed the waiting line of family and children, energizing the crowd.

Public Notices

LUNI1 1208

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 12/13/23 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: --------------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 792/23. ROOSEVELT Marti Homes, LLC, Variances, subdivision of lot, lot width from & on street line to front setback line, construct dwelling with garage (demolish existing structures) (Parcel A)., W/s Pennsylvania Ave., 50.86’ N/o Hudson Ave., f/k/a 75 Pennsylvania Ave. 793/23. ROOSEVELT Marti Homes, LLC, Variances, subdivision of lot, lot width from & on street line to front setback line, construct dwelling with garage (Parcel B)., W/s Pennsylvania Ave., 100.86’ N/o Hudson Ave. 795/23. ROOSEVELT - LI Garden Properties, Corp., Use variance, side yards, proposed 2-family in existing dwelling., N/s Hudson Ave., 250’ E/o Elysian Terrace, a/k/a 54 Hudson Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET,

HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in Roosevelt within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction.

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

143585

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

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, V. STEPHEN M. ARRESTO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF NANCY ARRESTO, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 18, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and

STEPHEN M. ARRESTO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF NANCY ARRESTO, 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 January 5, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 956 ALEXANDER AVENUE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553: Section 50, Block 451, Lot 16: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT UNIONDALE, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 607018/2019. Karl C. Seman, 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. 143638 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR CARLSBAD FUNDING MORTGAGE

TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST SATURIN THOMAS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 13, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 11, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 727 BECK STREET, UNIONDALE (T/O HEMPSTEAD), NY 11553.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 132, Lot 38-40.

Approximate amount of judgment $309,661.82 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008552/2016.

The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County 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. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Joy S. Bunch, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-001926 78445 143535

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

stay behind the yellow police tape that stretched from the school’s entrance down the long block to the end of the sidewalk.

The toy giveaway is “one among many community-based programs that bring police together with the community they serve to build communication and generate sound relationships,” according to the foundation’s website.

“I’ve been a commissioner for seven years, and I’ve been doing this for seven years,” said Nassau County Police Department commissioner Patrick Ryder.

“And every year, it gets better and bigger, and just more enjoyable for the kids and the community.”

Ryder acted as the giveaway’s ambassador. His car arrived first in the parade, which included motorcycle police, two statuesque mounted police officers, patrol cars, volunteer vehicles, the truck full of business partners handing the toys out to the crowd, and Uniondale Fire Department trucks.

“Make some noise,” Ryder shouted to the crowd. “Santa’s coming around the corner with lots of gifts!”

As the children and families crowded around the truck, Ryder circulated among them, handing out gifts and squatting down to slap high-fives with smiling little scholars.

“It’s an amazing way to engage the

families and keep the connection going in a positive way,” said Quyen Rovner, the Walnut Street school social worker.

Rovner was on the team that identified a thousand of the district’s neediest children, signing them up for the giveaway. PTA parent and Kiwanis member Janet Weekes was the event’s main organizer, aided by Walnut Street administrator Marina Philippe, and supported

by Principal Kevin Bracht, school board trustee Addie Blanco-Harvey, and others.

NCPD Foundation executive director Alexandra Nigolian organized the donation of toys from a large cluster of businesses and organizations. She also reached out to partner with community institutions like the Hofstra University Dance Team, and Kohl’s Cares, a charitable organization of Kohl’s department store.

“It’s my sixth year,” said Kohl’s Cares volunteer Ellen Needrith. “First time as a reindeer.”

She was smiling from the hood of a reindeer costume, greeting children and helping hand out toys.

Uniondale Fire Department chief Jessica Ellerbe said her trucks functioned as both a community outreach and a reassuring protective presence.

“Anytime the Nassau County Police Department does something here, they incorporate us,” she said. “And when we do something, we incorporate the police department. So we work together.”

Blue-shirted members of the Hofstra University Dance Team performed in the Walnut Street Elementary School parking lot, entertaining the parents and children gathered for the toy giveaway. Then the dance team helped hand out the gifts.

21

H1 12/07

Employment

CLASSIFIED

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

To pLACE your AD CALL 516-569-4000 - press 5

Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.

NOW HIRING:

SALES/MULTI MEDIA CONSULTANTS – INSIDE & OUTSIDE* FT/PT Salary Range $31,200 to $100,000 including Commissions & Bonuses

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DRIVERS FT/PT (Salary Range $17 per hour to $21 per hour)

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

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Email Your Resumes to

516-569-4000

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*Outside Sales must have car

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted

CANVASSER AND TELEMARKETER For a Political Campaign in Nassau County.

Pat Maher for Congress 516-447-8954.

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 INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma

NYS License Clean 3 Years $20 - $25/ Hour

Call 516-731-3000

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Careers@liherald.com or Call

1-800-231-6152

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business.

H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

HR Spec. (Int’l Div.) Rsch & draft procedure & policy for int’l recruiting, promoting & firing of empl's & rpt to HR mgr; assist HR mgr in providing empl. training prog; assist HR mgr in conducting new int’l empl's orient. to foster pos. attit. twrd biz. goals; & rvw & rpt. to HR mgr abt admin of compen., promo, & perfor. rvw syst. BA in HR Mgmt, Int’l Relat. or rel. $53,394/yr salary. Send res/ltt to Attn: HR Mgr, Ivy Enterprises, Inc. 25 Harbor Park Dr., Port Washington. NY 11050.

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 $15 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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 $31,200 + 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

16 Offices + 600 Agents = Large network of Buyers & Sellers!

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships.

Earning potential ranges from $31,200 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses.

Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop.

Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

RECEPTIONIST F/T

Leader in Digital Social Media Marketing Get your home noticed & SOLD!

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All offers are vetted & all deals close.

Catherine Lattuca

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A BETTER WAY TO BUY AND SELL REAL ESTATE! “Call A Realtor With Proven Experience!”

Rob Kolb Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Tripodi Shemtov Team

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

30 West Park Ave | Long Beach, NY 11561 Cell: 516-314-1728 • Office: 516-432-3400 Rob.Kolb@elliman.com • Elliman.com/RobKolb

This Robin won’t rest until you are in your new NEST! How’s the market?? Please contact me for your free market report and personalized service!

“Leading Edge Award Winner” Robin Reiss

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Staff Engineer II Enviro-Services & Constructors, Inc. in Melville, NY seeks a Staff Engineer II ($65,915/yr - $70,000/yr) to prepare engineering studies; prepare design calculations; prepare mass and energy balance calculations; select size and specify project components; prepare design drawings and details; oversee and review arrangement and layout schematics for processing systems; review environmental regulatory requirements; review compliance and performance of facilities; provide and coordinate design criteria; prepare requisitions, inquiries; and provide assembly and erection assistance. Must have a Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field, such as civil, mechanical or chemical engineering. Mail resume to Enviro-Services & Constructors Inc., 3 Huntington Quadrangle, Suite 204S, Melville, NY 11747, Attn: Cheryl Forte.

IT A SELLERS SELLERS THINKING SELLING ITIS IS STILL STILLOF A MARKET! MARKET! YOUR HOME? CallMe MeFor ForAA FREE FREE Market Call MarketEvaluation Evaluation WhileThe The Market Market Is While Is Still StillHOT!!

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Help Wanted

Receptionist needed for Publisher and Self-Storage Facility located in Garden City. The ideal candidate should have excellent communications and customer ser vice skills, be professional, dependable and have reliable transportation. Candidate should have computer knowledge and working knowledge of MS Office. Candidate MUST be reliable, punctual and be able to work a CONSISTENT schedule: Job Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Answering phones and greeting customers, assisting new customers by showing storage facility options and pricing, collecting payments from customers, contacting customers for late payments, applying payments and updating the customer files /data base and other general administrative responsibilities on an as needed basis. Hourly pay $15 to $17 plus eligible for Holiday Pay, PTO, Medical, Dental, 401k with company matching, plus other benefits. Qualified candidates should email their resume, cover letter and salary requirements. No phone calls please.

Email your resume to: careers@liherald.com

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REPORTER/EDITOR FT/PT (Salary Range $20,000 to $45,000)

Help Wanted

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

HERALD

RELIANCE R E LAvenue, IANCE 3305 Jerusalem 3305 Jerusalem Avenue, Wantagh, NY

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H2 12/07

Homes

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Long Beach

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Additional amenities include a two-car garage, a Bayfront outdoor patio, and a deck. This premier property is mere moments from the beach. Possibility of mother/ daughter with proper permits…

Live epically, live on the bay!

How extensive do plans need to be?

Q. I’m getting contractor bids on my house renovation, and so far they have each commented that there is “too much” information on the plans, that it seems unnecessary and was probably just an excuse to charge more money for the plans. One even said that he used to be able to “build with just a sketch on a napkin.” House plans don’t need to be so complicated and expensive, do they? Why do architects insist on so much just to take down a few walls or add a rudimentary addition?

A. Good questions.

The problem that we all face in the process of designing and putting together construction plans is that the plans, and the construction, have become a secondary point of the process, from the perspective of who gets to be in charge of whether you even get to build. A lot of the tables, charts and notes are put onte eeper onto your plans because individuals and municipal authorities need to be sure that those notes, graphs and charts are there.

Why? To protect the authorities — who insist that without them, you won’t be granted permission to fulfill your dream.

The administrative part of designing buildings took over in 1930 in your area. At the time, a standard set of building codes, called a uniform and fire prevention code, was introduced, mostly as a result of years of trying to figure out how to prevent another horrible disaster like the Great Chicago Fire, which burned from October 8 to 10, 1871. As the fire spread from one structure to another in the Windy City, people could be seen running with their hair on fire, headed to Lake Michigan, where thousands huddled in the water, shivering, covered in soot with their scalps smoldering as they watched one of America’s largest cities burn to the ground. History should not always repeat itself, so after approximately 300 men, women and children (not counting Mrs. O’Leary’s legendary cow) lost their lives that night, somebody got the idea that we need rules to prevent that from ever happening again.

Today the fire is long forgotten, but the regulations and requirements necessary to meet your home’s needs just keep stacking up. Most people have no idea about zoning requirements, structural calculation proof just to extend a deck 12 inches overhanging the support beams, or the online test to register the energy analysis your home has to pass before you’re allowed to build. Aside from all the “basic” stack of mounting requirements, there’s a need to prove that your home previously was approved the way it currently exists.

As I wrote in my last column, many authorities want us to provide plans of your whole home, just to compare with previous plans to update any other changes. Your simple plans are no longer so simple, and still need to be accurate. See if you can fit all that on a napkin. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

M

Thomas Tripodi Tripodi/Shemtov Team Douglas Elliman Real Estate 30A West Park Avenue Long Beach, NY 11561 516-902-3497

Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299

1238476

December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

22

Results that Move You

OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 12/10/23 EaST ROCKaWay 45 Judith Ct, 12-1:30, Immaculate & Well Maintained 3300 Sq Ft, 6 BR, 3 Bth Exp Ranch on Beautiful Quiet St in SD#20 (Waverly Pk Elem). LR/ Fpl, FDR, Huge Family Rm & EIK. Att Gar. Private Yd ..........................................................................$989,000

HEWLETT Bay PaRK 190 Meadowview Ave, BA, Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14. Near All. Must See This Unique Home! ...............REDUCED $2,700,000

1237341

REAL ESTATE

HEWLETT 1534 Broadway #213, BA, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! Move Right Into This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator.

Spacious Corner Unit. Updtd Gran/Wood Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Gar Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living. Convenient to Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship................................................................. $649,000 1390 Broadway #117, BA, NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This Beautiful JR 4 Coop Apt in Luxurious Hewlett Townhouse. Huge LR & DR, Ren Kit w/ Wood Cab/ Quartz Counters/ Stainless St Appl. Encl Terrace Overlooking Garden can Be Rm. Spac BR w/ En Suite Bath. W/D in Apt. 24 Hr Drmn, Elevator, Valet Pkg, Priv Storage.

Redone IG Comm Pool. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, LIRR & Houses of Worship .. $359,000 1180 E. Broadway #2, 2-3:30, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! 2 BR, 2.5 Bth Townhouse Tucked away in Quiet Gables Community. Spacious LR, DR & Updtd EIK. King size Primary Ste w/Bth & Lots of Closets. Full Bsmt. Att Garage. Private Outdoor Space w/ Deck. Convenient to LIRR, Shops & Houses of Worship. SD#14 ............. $659,000 1267 Peninsula Blvd, BA, 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14 (Hewlett Woodmere) Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck. HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship.......... $599,000

WOOdMERE 504 Saddle Ridge Rd, BA, Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2 Bth Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/Wood EIK Opens to Dining Room & Living Room. Lower Level Den. HW Flrs, Gas Heat, CAC. Oversized Property! SD#14.

Near All! .......................................................................................REDUCED! $950,000

Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

Open Houses HEWLETT: 1267 Peninsula Blvd, Open House By Appt, NEW! 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, L I R R , Tr a n s & H o u s e s o f W o r ship...$599,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT BAY PARK: BA, 190 Meadowview Ave, , Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows.

5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!.REDUCED!!.$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299

HEWLETT SUNDAY 12/10, 2-3:30, 1180 E. Broadway #2, OPEN HOUSE, FIRST TIME ON MARKET! 2 BR, 2.5 Bth Townhouse Tucked away in Quiet Gables Community. Spacious LR,DR & Updtd EIK. King size Primary Ste w/Bth & Lots of Closets. Full Bsmt. Att Garage. Private Outdoor Space w/ Deck. Convenient to LIRR, Shops & Houses of Worship.

SD#14...$659,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-429

Open Houses WOODMERE BA, 504 Saddle Ridge Rd.,REDUCED! Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2 Bth Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/Wood EIK Opens to Dining Room & Living Room.

Lower Level Den. HW Flrs, Gas Heat, CAC. Oversized Property! SD#14.Near All!..$950,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299

Apartments For Rent CEDARHURST NO FEE Pr ivate Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For O n e B e d r o o m W h e n Ava i l a bl e.

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25

opinions

he world of politics has never been an oasis of peace and harmony. By its very nature, democracy is a clash of ideas fueled by ambition. It is not an arena for the faint of heart. As a practitioner of politics and government for more than 50 years, I’m no stranger to political intrigue and combat. But until recently, there was a degree of respect for the other side and for the system itself. There were unwritten lines that were understood and not often crossed.

Nassau County politics can be as tough as it gets, but once the pETER debate or the campaign was KinG over, we almost always left the fight in the arena, and make it personal.

Jerry Kremer, for instance, a fellow Herald columnist, was a staunch and powerful Democrat on Long Island and in the state, but I don’t think there was ever a harsh word between us. And there were Democrats such as Mayor Ed Koch and Sen. Joe Lieberman that I worked closely with on issues such as homeland security and combating antisemitism. Of course, the classic example of adversaries fighting hard during the day and having a drink after hours

i

was the relationship between President Ronald Reagan and House Speaker Tip O’Neill.

Today, that collegiality is almost nonexistent, even within the same party.

Republicans who work with Democrats to find bipartisan solutions are labeled RINOS. Democrats who do the same are called sellouts, or worse. Kevin McCarthy forged a bipartisan agreement to keep the government open and was removed from he House speakership by his own party. A centrist Democrat like my friend Henry Cuellar, from Texas, who cooperates with Republicans on border security issues, faced a multi-million-dollar primary campaign in 2022, coordinated by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and “the Squad.”

Trying to make sense of my life, I’m in the process of writing my memoirs, tentatively titled “The Road to God Knows Where,” and came to the chapter on my election to Congress in 1992.

Going over my records of that campaign, I was reminded of how tough, hard-fought and close it was.

My opponent was Steve Orlins, a millionaire businessman making his first run for office. I was in my third term as county comptroller. The county had a

W

budget crisis, and Bill Clinton, heading the Democratic ticket, was running strong on Long Island. While I was better known than Orlins, that was a mixed blessing in a bad economy. Besides, Orlins had personal wealth that he used effectively against me, with a massive radio, television and direct-mail campaign. I won by just 3 percentage points.

What stands out for me in retrospect, though, is that despite the fact that Orlins and I had serious policy differences across the board, there was no hostility between us during the entire campaign.

The worst he said about me was that I was a prolife zealot who was responsible for the county’s fiscal woes, and my counter was that he was a liberal Manhattan millionaire who hadn’t voted in a number of elections, trying to buy a seat in Congress. Fair political comment on both sides. We had at least three televised debates without either of us raising our voice or pointing a finger.

Similarly, last week I appeared with former Congressman Charlie Rangel on WABC-TV’s “At Issue” to discuss how, even though Charlie and I strongly disagreed on almost every major issue, we always worked together across the aisle on issues affecting New York, and had a

e haven’t had it since after 9/11.

Instead, we and our leaders grow further apart.

strong friendship for many years. The fact that there was a Sunday show dedicated to showing that there was a time when two guys from the same state could actually get along and work together for their constituents indicates how far we’ve gone in the wrong direction.

Then, two Sundays ago, Rosemary and I visited Bob Beckwith and his wife, Barbara, at their Baldwin home. Bob was the retired FDNY firefighter who stood with President Bush in the ruins of the World Trade Center on Sept. 14, 2001, in that inspiring moment when the president proclaimed, “The people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon!” It may have been an accident of history that Bush chose Beckwith, but he couldn’t have picked anyone better — self-effacing, patriotic, dedicated. And as I spoke with Bob and thought back to those days and months after 9/11 when the American people were united, I realized that we haven’t had that sense of unity since. Instead, as crises loom larger, we and our leaders grow further apart.

Let us do all we can to reverse this road toward perpetual division, and once again realize that we live in the world’s greatest nation and must work to preserve it that way.

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

A love and a smile beyond dementia

’ll never forget the last time I saw my stepmother, even though by then she’d already forgotten me.

It was last year in the Florida hospice center Helen had lived in since before the coronavirus pandemic, when she required round-the-clock care that my father — back then pushing 90 himself — could no longer provide.

At first it was a missed meal, a forgotten hair appointment. But then Helen would forget to take her insulin. At that point we could no longer call it absentmindedness and blame it MiCHAEL on all the medicaHinMAn tion she took.

Dementia was taking its grip on Helen, and it was a battle none of us had any chance of winning.

Watching my stepmother fade was just cruel, for all of us. Helen still had that beautiful smile. She would still look at you with wonder. And she had a laugh that would echo through your mind for hours after you heard it. But

the Helen we all knew and loved was no longer inside. It broke all of our hearts.

Helen was hardly alone. Nearly 6 million people in the United States suffer from Alzheimer’s disease or some other form of dementia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — nearly all of them 65 and older.

That number will only grow, with an estimated 14 million expected to become victims of this condition by 2050, when I’ll be in my 70s myself.

Almost all of us have been touched by dementia in our families or our circle of friends. And there really is nothing we can do except always have a smile in front of them, make sure all their needs are met, and do our best to show how much we love them.

Early in Helen’s decline, we had picked up my younger sister from the airport. My dad’s van had a space up front for Helen’s wheelchair, because she always insisted on being by his side.

“How is Karel doing in medical school?” my stepmother asked me, referring to my partner at the time.

M

“He’s fantastic,” I told her. “He’ll be a doctor before we know it.”

We moved on to other family happenings, but then, out of nowhere, Helen spoke up again.

“How is Karel doing in medical school?”

My sister looked over at me, a bit panicked about how I should react. But I didn’t miss a beat.

“He’s fantastic,” I told her. “He’ll be a doctor before we know it.”

Later, my sister said she was blown away by how I handled the repeat question. It had happened a few more times with different topics, but each time Helen received calm answers, as if she had asked only once.

“If we get frustrated with her, she’ll get confused and upset, because she doesn’t know why we’re frustrated,” I told my sister. “All we can do is roll with it.”

And that’s all we can do. We just have to roll with it, despite how much it hurts to lose someone right before your eyes.

Which takes me back to that last

y stepmom had a laugh that would echo through your mind for hours.

visit at hospice. My dad was smiling at Helen, who at that point was barely verbal. He held her hands in his, talking about church. Talking about how beautifully they made up her hair. Through all of it, she just looked at my dad, occasionally letting out a laugh.

And then my dad paused, tears welling up in his eyes, but he refused to take that smile off his face.

“I love you,” he said to her.

Helen looked at him for a moment, struggling to get the words out. But she did, even if they were slurred a bit.

“I love you, too.”

Helen Wood Hinman died on Nov. 1, just two months shy of her 95th birthday. Although many of us had said our goodbyes to her long ago, her passing was still difficult.

I share the Helen of later years here with you because talking about dementia is important. But I choose to remember the Helen before the dementia. Who came into my father’s life during one of his darkest periods, and shared a love most of us could only imagine.

A love so deep, not even the cruelest of diseases could conquer it.

Michael Hinman is executive editor of Herald Community Newspapers.

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

T

Americans must rediscover our unity

26

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Long Island’s water supply is endangered

t

here’s an invisible lifeline across Long Island that sustains us all — our aquifer system.

These underground reservoirs — the source of every drop of water that flows from our taps — are the bedrock of Long Island’s clean water supply. Yet beneath the serene façade, a crisis is brewing. It’s a threat that could jeopardize our very survival.

The Long Island aquifer system comprises four primary underground formations. From the shallow glacial aquifer to the untapped Lloyd aquifer, which together with the Magothy and Jameco form the aquifer system — commonly referred to as a singular aquifer — these layers face myriad threats. From contamination by cleaning products and paints, as well as pesticides and nitrogen. From fertilizer runoff and septic tanks. And from what could be one of the most destructive threats: saltwater intrusion, exacerbated by over-pumping to fill our seemingly endless need.

The glacial and Magothy aquifers face increasing water demand. Nassau and Suffolk counties utilized nearly 415 million gallons of groundwater each day as of 2014, according to the Long Island Commission for Aquifer Protection — the equivalent of nearly 21,000 swimming pools. That was up more than 10 percent from just a decade earlier, and demand has grown even more since then.

There are increasing concerns about the impact on streams, ponds and wetlands. Coastal areas may face challenges as the demand for water surpasses the limits of the shallow freshwater aquifer.

Rapid development has exacerbated the

issue, reducing water replenishment into the aquifer. Impermeable surfaces and sanitary sewer systems prevent rainwater from sinking into the ground and divert water from its natural course, diminishing the aquifer’s ability to recharge. Moreover, pollution — including nitrogen, pathogens and toxins — poses a grave public health concern. Long Island’s drinking water is facing a worsening crisis.

The Long Island aquifer is already believed to be the most contaminated in New York state. Urgent policy changes are needed to prevent irreversible damage.

The federal government took significant steps to address issues like these across the country in the early 1980s, creating what has become known as the Superfund program with the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act. The Environmental Protection Agency was tasked with investigating and cleaning up sites of long-term pollution — more than 250 of them on Long Island.

Most are former manufacturing facilities or processing plants that remain contaminated decades after their closure, creating what are known as contamination “plumes” underground. The U.S. Navy has pumped groundwater from two such sites since 2008, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, removing 10,000 pounds of contaminants from the water.

And then, just last year, Northrop Grumman — which built military aircraft on Long Island from 1942 to 1996 — struck a $100 million deal with the state to remove solvent Grumman used to clean

Letters There’s new LIRR infrastructure, but what about the trains?

To the Editor: There is nothing to celebrate about the opening of the new $600 million Penn Station entrance at Seventh Avenue and 32nd Street. Just like previous investments, including the $1.6 billion Moynihan Station, the $300 million West End Concourse, the $600 million entrance at Seventh and 33rd and the enlarged Main Concourse — totaling $3.1 billion — it does nothing to eliminate periodic cancellation and consolidation of Long Island Rail Road, NJ Transit and Amtrak trains utilizing the East River and Hudson River tunnels due to broken rails or signal, power or other malfunctions.

These investments provide no improvement when it comes to reliability of service or additional platform and track capacity. Periodic overcrowding at the platform levels — which results in overcrowded trains with insufficient seating capacity — will continue. Some riders end up standing in the vestibules and aisles. The mad rush to board late-arriving trains for the trip home will continue.

Amtrak’s initiation of East River tunnel rehabilitation

aircraft parts, which is part of the socalled Bethpage plume.

There are several other examples of work to clean up these plumes, but even current efforts will mean that we won’t see significant results for decades. More must be done.

While cleaning contamination must be left to the experts, helping to sustain the aquifer by reducing demand, and not adding more contaminants, is an effort every one of us can immediately contribute to.

Water conservation at home, local STOP programs — short for Stop Throwing Out Pollutants — and promoting and prioritizing proper pollutant disposal and responsible medication disposal are crucial steps. More vigilant collection of the waste from vehicle maintenance, lest water-intensive lawn care, and the removal of impermeable surfaces — to allow rainwater to make its way to the aquifer before being lost as runoff — contribute to safeguarding our aquifer. Demanding that local lawmakers pass legislation reducing the future expanse of impermeable surfaces is vital.

Our daily choices — from the disposal of pollutants to the maintenance of our vehicles — resonate in the health of the aquifer. If we want Long Island to continue to serve as our home in a sustainable future, we must rethink our attitude about water. It is not merely a commodity, but a lifeline that sustains our communities.

The fate of Long Island’s aquifer hinges on our ability to embrace change, make informed choices, and collectively safeguard this hidden treasure beneath our feet.

27

opinions

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ike most people, I awoke on Oct. 7 to news of Hamas’ horrific attack on Israel. The barbarism displayed by the Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians was enough to make anybody’s blood boil. The indiscriminate slaughter of innocent men, women and children in communities across the south of Israel was the biggest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust.

You would think that this modern-day pogrom, carried out by terrorists who seek the destruction of antHonY Israel and the of the D’esposito eradication Jewish people, would elicit a unified response from the international community. Alas, the scenes of horror in communities like Sderot, Ashkelon, kibbutz Be’eri and Re’im — where people were cut down in horrific fashion by Hamas fighters simply for being Jewish — drew mixed reactions from countries around the globe and even neighbors here at home.

Indeed, instead of mourning with Israelis and calling for the return of the hundreds of hostages kidnapped into the Gaza Strip, world leaders have condemned Israel for leading an “occupation,” and even gone so far as to actively side with Hamas. Sadly, other “leaders” who have warped views on this situation can be found closer to home, like U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, who proudly defended the use of virulently antisemitic chants at pro-Palestinian protests, most notably, “From the river to the sea!” which is a call for the destruction of Israel.

We must condemn such antisemitic speech, whether it comes from faraway capitals or the halls of our own Congress, which is why I continue to advocate for the censorship of Tlaib and for the Biden administration to take a strong stand against nations that seek to undermine the United States’ greatest ally, Israel.

Not only have we seen institutional antisemitism at work on the world stage, but it has even permeated the streets of our neighborhoods as well as the cam-

w

e must condemn antisemitic speech, whether from far away or in Congress.

Letters starting next year will result in one of four tunnels being removed from service 24/7. If a train stalls in one of the three remaining tunnels, thousands of commuters will be late. To preserve existing service, some LIRR rush-hour trains will be canceled or combined. Until this work is over by the promised 2027 date, it is impossible to guarantee LIRR commuters safe and reliable on-time service, or seats, with a full schedule of trains to and from Penn Station.

LARRY PeNNeR Great Neck Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian, writer and a former director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

Whose side is AOC on?

To the editor: Right after her insincere and unconvincing public rejection of antisemitism in late October, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez could no longer hold herself back. After her ChatGPT-styled condemnation of antisemitism, an impassioned Ocasio-Cortez wrote on X that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee “endorsed scores of Jan 6th insurrectionists. They are no friend to American democracy. They are one of the more racist and bigoted PACs in Congress as well, who disproportionately target members of color. They are an extremist organiza-

puses of American colleges and universities. Just turning on the news puts the depth of hatred on full display, with Jewish students being subjected to hate and ridicule by pro-Palestinian protesters simply for wearing kippahs — a clear sign that these protesters’ real issue is with the existence of Jews, and not just the policies of the State of Israel.

This antisemitic violence has turned deadly, with a 69-year-old Jewish, pro-Israel protester killed in cold blood in California on Nov. 5. We cannot allow this violence against Jews to become normalized, in Israel or the United States.

Congress is taking action to combat antisemitism and to provide our Israeli allies with the tools they need to defend their very existence.

On Nov. 2, the House of Representatives passed the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act. This legislation, which I co-sponsored, provides Israel with over $14 billion in aid to help replenish its Iron Dome missile defense system, increase the amount of previously depleted munitions, and much more.

tion that destabilizes US democracy.”

As someone who has repeatedly expressed deep concern for American democracy and called out those destabilizing it, seeing AOC scapegoat AIPAC in this way has shocked me to my core.

And as someone who was shocked by the Jan. 6 insurrection, I have been closely following corporations and companies supporting election deniers. AOC singling out AIPAC before countless corporations, super-PACs, and other organizations supporting members of Congress who failed to certify our presidential election is breathtakingly antisemitic.

Historically speaking, antisemitism starts by targeting one kind of Jew. Not all of us. Antisemitism begins with conspiracies about one segment of the Jewish people who are so powerful, so influential and so deceitful that they must be stopped.

Whether it’s people on the far right blaming every grievance they have on George Soros; antisemites in the czar’s Russia villainizing the fictional elders of Zion; Soviet propaganda vilifying Jews as capitalists; or Nazis in Germany dehumanizing Jews as the ultimate socialists, antisemites pave the path to violence against Jews with scapegoating.

Ocasio-Cortez, joined now by Rep. Cori Bush, attacking AIPAC with increased frequency, has all the trappings of antisemitism. There are any number of super PACs, corporations and organizations that are truly endangering our democracy, but AIPAC is not one of them. AOC could be drawing attention to the countless individuals and organizations that enabled the

The funding package also includes provisions to aid in the evacuation of American citizens from Israel, and to enhance security at the U.S. embassy there.

On the domestic front, I also helped pass House Resolution 798, which formally condemns Hamas/Hezbollah sympathizers on college campuses. This resolution passed with bipartisan support, and I will continue working with colleagues from across the aisle to ensure that Jewish students at American colleges and universities are not forced to learn in unsafe environments.

The Hamas attack on Israel, and the ensuing campaign against terrorism, have had profound impacts on the United States. The recent dramatic increase in antisemitic incidents across the country shows that hatred is on the rise, and demonstrates the need for communities around the country to unite and denounce such evil actions. Let’s all lend our voices to the campaign against hate, support our Jewish neighbors, promote the defense of our Israeli allies, and unite in condemnation of Hamas and its enablers, both at home and abroad.

Never again will we let evil win.

Anthony D’Esposito represents New York’s 4th Congressional District.

Framework by Tim Baker

A greater rhea named Edgar at the Bellmore tree lighting.

Jan. 6 insurrection, but she is not doing that.

At a time when the U.S. is seeing a dramatic increase in antisemitic attacks on Jews, Jews feel less safe in America than ever before. When they are being murdered and beaten on the streets of America, it is time for Ocasio-Cortez to stop scapegoating AIPAC. This Jewish

group is not responsible for the troubles of society. As MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow has recently pointed out, history shows that targeting Jews with such conspiratorial accusations is in and of itself a huge threat to democracy.

RABBI eLCHANAN POUPkO Bronx

UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON — December 7, 2023

‘Never again’ is more than a slogan. It’s our rallying cry.

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December 7, 2023 — UNIONDALE HERALD BEACON

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