Valley Stream Herald 06-01-2023

a pint-sized patriot pays her respects

LIJ Valley Stream tackles Covid trauma among health care staff

By JUaN laSSo jlasso@liherald.com

Two years ago, Dr. Salvatore Pardo was an outspoken believer in the importance of mask-wearing and federal Covid safety guidelines. Nowadays, he keeps any medical opinion about existing Covid safety protocols to himself. And, eager to get on with a new sense of normalcy, he says the pandemic is not a topic he’d like to revisit anytime soon.

‘Mambo Man of V.S.’ writes his life story

By CaroliNE KElly Intern

He’s a hometown icon who can’t resist a crowd. He’s as much a historian as he is a walking historical artifact. Gaetano “Guy” Ferrara’s life story reads like a dynamic tour of the cultural highlights of the ‘50s and ’60s.

The 88-year-old has rubbed shoulders with the likes of baseball legend Jackie Robinson. Ferrara was Robinson’s driver. Then there was the friendship Ferrara forged with the Latin bandleader and mambo legend Tito Puente.

Be entertained. Every night, read one story, and you’ll fall asleep laughing.

from sharing stories with any willing listener about the many hats he has worn throughout his life. He’s a village historian, and has been a technology teacher at Hewlett-Woodmere Junior High School: now Woodmere Middle School, a village civilian patrol officer, a salsa dancing instructor, and a stand-up comedian and nightclub entertainer. He remains something of a force of nature.

GaEtaNo ‘GUy’ FErrara Author

Ask anyone, and chances are they share that feeling — the feeling of being over with Covid.

As the pandemic took hold, Pardo knew firsthand the grueling working conditions that strained frontline workers’ mental and emotional limits. The Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital, where Pardo is chairman of emergency services, became a main stage where the war against the virus was waged — as did thousands of

hospitals and medical centers across the country.

Over three years after the pandemic’s onset, the prevailing sense of anxiety that defined the first wave of coronavirus at the hospital is no longer there, Pardo noted.

Hospital administrators say the volume of Covid-19 patients at LIJ Valley Stream has thinned considerably.

Close to home, he’s become a part of Valley Stream lore. The worstkept secret in the village is Ferrara’s ardent fascination with salsa and mambo dancing, which has earned him the nickname “The Mambo Man of Valley Stream.” Last year he gave a riveting dance performance during the village’s summer concert series.

Ferrara has never shied away

But until recently, Ferrara never thought of adding author to that list. Now he has, penning his personal history in an autobiography titled “Dancing My Way Through Life.” Ferrara signed copies of the book at the Pagan-Fletcher Restoration on May 21.

While he is no stranger to archiving and collecting stories, he never thought he would write a book of his own, but when the pandemic hit in 2020 and life slowed to a pause, the isolation gave him a unique opportunity to reflect. He soon found joy in Continued on page 16

Dina Ewashko/Herald

Aubree Roth, 2, joined her dad, firefighter Eddie Roth, of Valley Stream Fire Department Engine 4, at the Memorial Day Parade. Story, more photos, Page 3.

Minority Millennials declare they are future

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

They come from all walks of life, with diverse backgrounds and even more diverse plans for their individual futures. They are Minority Millennials, and they visited Hofstra University recently as a way to prepare to become tomorrow’s leaders.

The summit — which took place at the school’s David S. Mack Complex — was known as “We are the Future,” featuring sessions and presentations from a lineup of today’s thought leaders that included elected officials the state’s lieutenant governor, a number of New York City councilmembers, and Assemblywoman Taylor Darling.

The summit featured workshops and panel sessions designed to emphasize the importance of civic power, financial literacy, and taking on leadership roles. It featured live programming aimed to promote civic power and economic freedom, all while educating and empowering Black and brown young people from across the five boroughs and Long Island.

Minority Millennials is a nonprofit civic and youth development organization founded in 2017, and serves as a resource for emerging generations of color as they seek equity in social, political and economic developments.

“We created Minority Millennials and

now the We are the Future summit to bridge the gap between policy culture,” said Dan Lloyd, founder and president of Minority Millennials, in a release.

“We firmly believe the fundamental piece to economic freedom is ensuring young people of color are educated about the value of civic engagement.

Once a person understands their role in society and how powerful their voice is within a larger democracy, their leverage of power shifts, and their ability to develop both personally and professionally dramatically increases.”

In an effort to access inter-generational networking opportunities, the summit

included panel sessions and keynote presentations from New York City public advocate Jumaane Williams, as well as Suffolk County police commissioner Rodney Harrison, and Gen-Z activist Chelsea Miller.

“Coming up, the people who had the biggest impact on me and my future were the people who looked like me. Who gave me a chance. And who led by example,” said Brooklyn borough president Antonio Reynoso, in a release. “I’m glad to see the We are the Future summit creating this opportunity, not just for young adults, but for the adults who have a responsibility to empower the next generation of change-makers.”

AT&T was a major supporter of the summit, providing 1,000 free tickets for Long Island, Bronx, and Brooklyn high school students to attend.

“AT&T is proud to support such an important and meaningful summit, and applauds the organizers and all of the esteemed presenters for their commitment to engage in meaningful conversation about the importance of civic responsibility,” said Magdalonie ParisCampbell, a spokeswoman for AT&T, in a release. “As a company that connects people across all aspects of life, we are thrilled to support this effort to engage so many New York City and Long Island youth with the opportunity to inspire them to be the next generation of changemakers and civic leaders.”

Courtesy Daniel Lloyd

MINoRIty MILLENIALs fIRst We are the Future summit at Hofstra University, emphasized to Black and brown young people the importance of civic power, financial literacy and taking on leadership roles.

Village pays tribute to its fallen soldiers

With a sun-filled sky overhead, the streets were lined with patriotic verve and flag-waving residents, observing the memory of those who gave their lives in the service of this country during the village’s 103rd Annual Memorial Day Parade on May 29. Parade participants gathered at Wheeler Avenue and Rockaway Parkway as the parade line wound through the village ending at the memorial site at the Village Green. There, a ceremony was subsequently held to honor the names of the Valley Stream residents engraved on the memorial monument who fought and died in combat.

A separate memorial service, honoring Central High School students killed in the line of duty in the nation’s wars, was held at the Central High School memorial plaque on May 27.

The Valley STream Fire Department proudly shows off its colors

Following The parade, the village held its annual remembrance ceremony at the memorial monument at the Village Green.

The naSSau CounTy Girl Scouts honored fallen soldiers at the village’s annual Memorial Day parade on May 29.

The Valley STream Central High School Remembrance Celebration honored fallen Central High students in the nation’s wars.

VeTeranS SaluTed The names of the fallen Valley Stream soldiers.

Dina Ewashko/Herald photos

during the Memorial Day parade on May 29.

–Juan Lasso

The plight of ‘pandemic pets’ irks shelters

Most found their forever homes, others are still searching after the pandemic subsided

By NICOLE FORMISANO nformisano@liherald.com

Some good arose from the 2020 Covid19 lockdown — many pets found new homes. Nearly one in five — or 23 million — American households adopted a new furry friend during the pandemic, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Most of these pets are still full-fledged members of the family, but unfortunately for some, their forever home lasted only as long as the pandemic itself.

“We’ve seen an increase of animals getting surrendered, because of either behavioral issues or separation anxiety,” said Johanna Baeyens, the founder and owner of the Lynbrook-founded animal rescue Lend-A-Paw, now based in Oceanside. “A lot of people just don’t know how to deal with that. They just resort to surrendering their animal.”

Lend-A-Paw cares for many animals that were returned by previous owners. Baeyens said that more than half of those returns are pets that were adopted during the pandemic.

“I think a lot of people didn’t find other ways of keeping themselves active or fixing the boredom,” she said. “Instead, they just went and thought of a quick fix, to get an animal, and now they’re seeing the consequences.”

Baeyens said that pandemic pets continue to be returned — just last Saturday, someone gave back the two cats they adopted during lockdown because the person’s living situation has changed now that the pandemic is over.

Elyse Jordan, the shelter manager at Bobbi and the Strays in Freeport, said the animal rescue ended up caring for several pets that were given back as life started to return to normal.

“We did get what we ended up calling pandemic puppies — where people bought puppies while they were home all that time, and then once they went back to work, they didn’t have time,” Jordan said.

However, the vast majority of animals adopted from Bobbi and the Strays have stayed with their families.

Interested in adopting a pet?

Lend-A-Paw

(516) 405-0065

lendapawinc.com

Bobbi and the Strays

(516) 378-4340

bobbiandthestrays.org

All About Cats

(516) 582-6137

allaboutcats.org

“It’s medically proven that animals are good for the stress in your life,” Roth said. “Older people that have animals live longer. It gives them joy and happiness in life.”

“We were all worried that once the pandemic was over, these people that went out and got dogs were going to return them,” Jordan said. “But we actually were quite surprised that we didn’t (see that) here.”

The adoption rate for adult cats saw a particular spike, nearly doubling during the pandemic. Jordan noted that postpandemic cat adoptions remained high because many people felt bad for the animals that were being returned and wanted to give them the forever homes they deserved. This was significant for adult and senior cats often overlooked for adoption by families in favor of a kitten.

Cindy Roth, the founder of the animal shelter All About Cats in Freeport, said she saw a couple of instances of people returning pets they got during lockdown. These people cited allergies, although more than a year had passed since the ini-

tial adoption and things were beginning to return to normal.

“I think they got it as a kitten for entertainment, and it grew up, and then they didn’t need it around anymore,” Roth said.

In both cases, the cats have since found their forever families, as have the rest of the cats that were adopted during lockdown. All About Cats generally sees around 1,200 adoptions each year. During 2020, that number increased by several hundred, according to Roth, who added that for people who were adopting for the right reasons, the pandemic was the perfect time to introduce a new family member to their home.

“They were able to get a lot of love,” Roth said of the 2020 adoptees.

In addition, she said it was good for people who needed a source of joy in their lives.

This was the case for Priscilla and Bill Pesek and their three children, who adopted a puppy, Winston, on April 23, 2020.

“I think what got us to really look for this puppy was we needed a lot of joy in our lives,” Priscilla Pesek said. “We needed some kind of love and happiness.”

Winston, who, as a puppy, was “a little ball of fur,” brought just that. At a time when the family’s lives were interrupted and Bill Pesek, a funeral home director, was working nonstop, Winston was a source of family bonding and happiness.

“It just took a very bad time and made it into a very happy one,” Priscilla Pesek said. “The kids bonded with each other — they went on walks together, read books about how to train dogs together.”

Winston also kept the Peseks in touch with their community and other family members. When the kids walked Winston, neighbors were delighted by him and would stop to chat, even while remaining six feet apart. Priscilla Pesek’s grandparents, mother-in-law and preschool students were also big fans of Winston, she said.

CRIME bRIEf

Queens woman arrested for shoplifting spree

Press ”7” E-mail: circ@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942

A Queens woman was arrested and charged after shoplifting at a Target store in Valley Stream on May 16, according to Nassau County police. Thirty-year-old Kenya Sanders attempted to steal merchandise from the store. Police later stopped Sanders after she went back into the store to make a return at the guest service desk. A fight broke out between Sanders and the officers who attempted to arrest her, injuring two of them. The officers were later trans-

ported to a nearby hospital.

A subsequent investigation linked Sanders to four other shoplifting instances at the store between March and May. She is charged with assault, petit larceny, grand larceny, obstructing governmental administration, and resisting arrest. She was arraigned at First District Court in Hempstead. She is due back on June 14.

–Juan Lasso

Courtesy Priscilla Pesek

WINStON WIth FAMILy, William, 23, Allie, 20, and Andrew, 14.

Carbonaro students take a trip to Bellmore Theatre

Valley Stream 24’s Robert W. Carbonaro kindergarten and first-grade students recently went on their very first field trip to Bellmore Theatre to experience live theatre. They watched Frog and Toad, learning the importance of being kind and forming friendships.

“Our kindergarten and firstgrade students were thrilled to experience their first field trip and for many, it was their first time on a bus ride,” said principal Rosario Iacono.

Field trips benefit students academically and socially, noted school officials. It allows teachers and students to get out of the classroom and create shared experiences. For students, field trips provide authenticity to the learning experience not possible in a classroom setting.

–Juan Lasso

RobeRt W. CaRbonaRo

kindergarten and first-grade students at the Bellmore Theatre on their trip.

Elder Law Misconceptions

One of the most common and devastating misconceptions about elder law estate planning is that it is too late to save money from nursing home costs. On the contrary, there are crisis planning tools that may save substantial assets from being spent on nursing home costs, even after the client has already entered the nursing home. Almost always, if there are assets left, much can be saved.

There are only three ways to pay for nursing home costs – your own assets, long-term care insurance (owned by less than five percent of the population), or Medicaid provided by the government.

Many people know about the “five-year look-back period” and assume nothing can be done without advance planning. The five-year look-back rule means that if you gave any gifts away within the last five years, when asking for Medicaid to pay for expensive nursing home costs, the gift amount creates a penalty period, which results in a period of ineligibility for Medicaid coverage.

Despite the five-year look-back, New York law allows people to protect assets from nursing home costs, even without pre-planning. For single applicants, you may be able to save about half of the assets through the “gift and loan” strategy. For married couples, where one spouse needs a nursing home, “spousal refusal” may protect substantial amounts of assets for the spouse at home. These techniques are discussed in detail at trustlaw.com, under “Practice Areas”, then “Medicaid Strategies”.

The five-year look-back rule does not affect eligibility of Medicaid home care, also known as “community” Medicaid. Currently, an applicant may transfer their assets out of their name and still qualify for home care in the next month.

Many assets, such as retirement accounts, rental properties and the family home in some cases, are exempt from Medicaid. The bottom line is that if someone you love is in failing health, the sooner you consult an elder law attorney the more you will likely be able to save.

Photos courtesy Valley Stream District 24

Living in a world after the Covid-19 pandemic

By MICHAEL HINMAN mhinman@liherald.com

The country officially returned to normal on May 11 with the end of the federal public health emergency surrounding Covid-19 — but for many, it’s been pretty close to normalcy for months.

Virtually no one asks for proof of vaccination. Masks, while occasionally seen, have found themselves primarily back on the faces of medical professionals. And the floor markings intended to help people put six feet of distance from their neighbors have almost faded into time.

Yet, the federal end to the emergency is far from ceremonial. Washington has stopped buying vaccines and treatment, although plenty of supplies already purchased remain on-hand. It once again became more difficult to qualify for Medicaid — something that has loosened significantly at the height of the pandemic. However, states like New York isn’t expected to address eligibility at the more local level until later this summer.

And, of course, many of the financial assistance programs that had almost become commonplace are long gone, but free vaccines for children remain thanks to efforts by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pfizer and Moderna — the two major pharmaceutical companies that supplied most of the country’s vaccine doses — vow they’ll continue providing free vaccines to those who can’t afford it, or don’t have the insurance to cover it.

Much closer to home, government officials with Nassau County as well as the towns of Hempstead and Oyster Bay, had nothing to say about the pandemic. County Executive Bruce Blakeman went after mask mandates — especially in schools — within minutes of being sworn in more than a year ago.

“The governor should adhere to the law, follow the science, and allow local officials to decide what is best for their hometown communities,” Blakeman said at the time. “Nassau is not in crisis, and shouldn’t be painted with the same broad brush as the rest of New York state.”

This week — and in the coming weeks — the Herald is exploring local life in a post-pandemic world. We’re following up on the heroes and the stories that filled these pages from the very beginning of the pandemic lockdown, to the height of the virus invasion, to the aftermath. All with the hope we never have to experience such troubled times ever again.

And more local programs, like the Household Assistance Program that offered a $375 per household grant from federal funds, as well as the Emergency Rental Assistance Program — ended last fall, with a lot of the money unclaimed.

In the end, nearly 6.7 million positive cases were reported statewide, with New York City accounting for nearly half of that with 3.1 million cases. Long Island reported 1.1 million cases, while 5,346 people in Nassau County died.

Nearly 85 percent of people in Nassau received at least one vaccine shot, representing more than 1.1 million people — the best overall percentage in the state, behind the 88 percent from Queens and Manhattan.

One woman the coronavirus would not defeat was Nancy Casale of Wantagh. Last year, the then-95-year-old walked out of the Glen Cove Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation on her own power, after months of fighting Covid-19 and its aftermath.

“Nancy is a wonderful soul, said Lynda Torel from the Glen Cove center. “At 95, she’s energetic, eager and willing — all the qualities that make her a fighter. She’s been on a fantastic journey. She never said ‘no.’”

Laura Lane/Herald file

NANCy CAsALE stops to thank pulmonary rehabilitation director Lynda Torel outside the Glen Cove Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation last July, after battling Covid-19 and its aftermath for months. Nancy never let her age — 95 — stand in the way.

Hofstra softball regains championship form

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

The Hofstra softball team captured its first Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) title since 2018 in dramatic fashion and in the process kept a tradition alive for the storied program.

The Pride, aided largely by five fifthyear players who used an extra year of eligibility due to the canceled 2020 season at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, made sure the freshman class from 2019 experienced the taste of a championship and an NCAA regionals appearance after knocking off Towson with a 5-4 walk-off victory on May 13. The come-from-behind win on Hofstra’s home turf of Bill Edwards Stadium in which the Pride trailed 4-2 in the sixth inning, kept the program’s streak going of every freshman class since the school’s first NCAA Tournament appearance in the early 1990s hoisting a championship trophy.

“We had a very special fifth year class who really wanted to be part of that championship culture,” said second-year Hofstra coach Adrienne Clark, who as a player led the Pride to four straight CAA titles from 2002 to 2005. “It was really incredible.”

One of Hofstra’s fifth-year players, Angelina Ioppolo, stepped up in the clutch with Hofstra trailing 4-3 with two outs in

the bottom of seventh when she delivered a two RBI bases loaded single to left field setting off a raucous celebration. The hit scored fellow fifth-year player Kasey Collins with the tying run with senior Chelsea Manto then crossing the plate to clinch Hofstra’s 13th CAA title and 21st conference championship overall.

Hofstra faced adversity in the 2023 CAA title run when it fell to that same Towson team 2-1 the previous day to put the Pride in the losers bracket of the double elimination tournament. After staying alive with a 9-8 win against Long Island rival Stony Brook on the evening of May 12, Hofstra forced a deciding game with another elimination win, 6-4, against Towson.

Fifth-year player Meghan Giordano stepped up in the CAA championship run with a key three-run homer in the first Towson win to produce some key insurance when the Pride were clinging to a 3-2 lead in the sixth inning. She then blasted a solo homer in the decisive game to tie the game 2-2 in the fourth inning.

One of the biggest hits in Hofstra’s CAA championship journey came off the bench from junior Brianna Morse when the Mepham High School graduate hit a leadoff double in the bottom of the seventh with the Pride trailing 4-3 to help spark the eventually winning rally.

“She is such an amazing athlete and

person,” Clark said of Morse. “We had a lot of unsung heroes on the team.”

Morse’s younger sister, Alanna Morse, had a standout freshman season starting at third base and produced three hits in Hofstra’s NCAA regional losses to Oklahoma and Cal.. The game against topseeded Oklahoma, who entered the tourney at 54-1, on the Sooners’ home field was broadcasted nationally on ESPNU.

Another local talent who shined in the postseason was sophomore pitcher Anna Butler of Seaford, who threw two key innings of relief in the 9-8 Stony Brook win and also got time out of the bullpen in both of Hofstra’s NCAA regional games.

“She is extremely competitive in everything that she does,” Clark said of the Seaford High School graduate. “She did an incredible job of mixing up her pitches.”

While Hofstra was shut out in both of its NCAA tourney games against stiff competition, Clark hopes the experience pays dividends as she looks to grow the program back to when she was an assistant coach with the Pride decade ago and the team reached the NCAA super regionals.

“They were fearless in how they approached those games,” she said. “The experience of competing in a regional sets up the success of future teams.”

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletic Communications

ThE PRiDE CAPTuRED the Colonial Athletic Association softball title in walk-off fashion, beating Towson, 5-4, after trailing late by two runs.

ChElsEA MANTO CElEBRATED after crossing the plate with the CAA championship-clinching run.

State parks prepare for busy summer of sharks

By MICHAEL MALASZCZYK mmalaszczyk@liherald.com

Excited about summer, but nervous about sharks? There are a few things to know.

Above all, state officials have a comprehensive plan they say will ensure swimmers and boaters will be safe from sharks this summer. Joining forces to make that happen are the state’s parks, recreation, and historic preservation office, along with the environmental conservation department and the state police. All will increase surveillance along every state park beach.

“With New Yorkers and visitors alike preparing to enjoy our beautiful Long Island beaches all summer long, their safety is our top priority,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said, in a release. “I encourage all New Yorkers to listen to local authorities, follow guidance, and take precautions to ensure a safe and responsible beach trip this summer.”

How state officials will patrol parks deserves a big thanks from technology. Some 18 drones will monitor beaches for sharks — up from eight last year, Nearly three-dozen state staffers — from police to lifeguards — have or will be trained, all by Fourth of July weekend.

Two new Yamaha WaveRunners — what many might know as jetskis — have been assigned to lifeguards to patrol both Jones Beach and Robert Moses state parks.

To keep swimmers away from high levels of fish activity — where sharks are more likely to prowl — buffer zones will be created between swimming areas and surf fishing areas.

“The action being taken along the South Shore of Long Island will give us eyes in the sky and along the coastline,” state parks commissioner Eric Kulleseid said. “Over the past two seasons, we’ve learned that drones are the most effective mecha-

nism to detect environmental conditions that could attribute to shark activity.”

Those environmental conditions include areas with seals, schools of fish, diving birds, and murky water. Shark activity also can be higher at dusk, night and dawn, according to experts.

Should a shark be sighted at any beach, swimming will be suspended for at least one hour. That sighting then will be referred to the Long Island Coastal Awareness Group,

an environmental organization which consists of more than 200 people from municipalities, agencies, and private beach operators from Queens and Long Island.

There was higher-than-usual amount of shark activity off of Long Island last summer, including one documented shark attack on Jones Beach. Other places on the island with confirmed shark attacks included two on Smith Point Beach, and one each on Ocean Beach, Seaview Beach, and Fire Island.

The Ocean Beach attack was identified as a sand tiger shark, which is native to Long Island’s waters. Typically docile, these are the sharks one might see on a trip to the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead.

One of the attacks at Smith Point Beach was confirmed to be a tiger shark — most likely a juvenile.

None of the attacks were fatal, but the increased activity prompted the environmental conservation department to ease fears. State biologists Jim Gilmore and Chris Scott made two things clear to reporters last year — shark activity is not as dangerous as “Jaws” might lead you to believe. And shark activity means the environment of Long Island waters is doing well.

According to Gilmore and Scott, Long Island beachgoers may have let their guard down in recent years because the environment had not been thriving enough to support normal levels of shark activity.

“Many of our coastal shark species are protected now because they had declined,” Gilmore said, at the time. “And they were an important predator in the marine environment. So overall, this is good news for the marine environment and our ecosystems.”

Scott emphasized that seeing these ocean predators at Long Island beaches is completely normal.

“If you went to the woods in Alaska, you might see a bear,” he said. “If you go to the ocean here on Long Island, you might interact with a shark.”

Michael Malaszczyk/Herald file

THErE CouLd BE sharks lurking in this choppy water off of Jones Beach’s West End. But if there are, there’s a few things to know — like the state is putting resources into protecting swimmers from sharks, and that shark activity is a sign of a healthy environment.

The leadership aT Long Island Jewish Valley Stream unrolled a ‘stress first aid’ program to help staff cope with the trauma of the coronavirus pandemic.

Covid.”

While hundreds of people still die from the virus every day, nationwide hospitalization and death rates are on a downward trend, a reality that led the White House to declare an end to a public health emergency on May 11.

“The pandemic is over,” said Pardo. “We have a much greater understanding of what Covid19 is. We know how to identify those with the virus. We have testing and treatment to combat the virus at the ready.”

But moving on is not entirely possible for Pardo and his fellow healthcare workers, due to what he calls the lingering “psychological trauma of Covid and the pandemic in general.”

“A lot of our staff lost family members that died or were negatively impacted. A lot of people within the health system in general also perished due to the virus,” he said.

Healthcare workers came into work painfully aware of the irony of leaving behind their families, telling them to keep safe from the virus, while throwing themselves headfirst into the sort of harrowing, high-risk situations they’d caution against, said Pardo.

“It forced us to reevaluate our place in the healthcare field and ask whether we can continue to do it,” he said.

Many simply could not. Healthcare workers have the propensity to push themselves to their mental and physical limits, noted employee health manager Lissa Nelson. The unrelenting pressure from the pandemic exploited this inclination to overstretch and overwork to a dangerous degree. And for too many staff members, their mental and physical wellness became

collateral damage in the fight against the coronavirus, noted Nelson.

“In the midst of the pandemic, one of our very young, talented physicians killed herself,” said Nelson — “a talented, wonderful person who was overwhelmed by the grief and stress and strain of her work.”

That moment forced administrators and leadership to step back and reevaluate.

“We know that healthcare workers do better when they don’t come in depleted, feel pulled apart from every angle, and have taken time to take care of themselves,” said Nelson. “And now I’m glad to see there is more of an emphasis than ever on providing a language for our staff to verbalize those needs.”

Covid emergency is over, but the trauma lingers Covid

A new program called “stress first aid” involves checking regularly on healthcare workers’ emotional and mental states by offering them a way to explore and express their thoughts and feelings.

“We ask team members if they are in a ‘red zone,’ for example, where they feel tension and have a limited ability to function. Or are they in a green zone where everything is okay and you’re able to support other team members?” Nelson explained.

The program is still in its early stages, so it will take some time before staff members embrace those concepts into their own professional vocabulary. But Nelson hopes this move will help shift the hospital culture toward preventing staff members from suffering in silence under the weight of handling life-and-death situations. It is the first of several concerted steps in the works to address the scars left by the pandemic.

“Despite the overwhelming sickness that surrounded us during the pandemic, our team showed up every day,” said Nelson. “Now we want to make it easier for our healthcare workers to show up for themselves: to self-care, to express their grief, to heal.”

Tim Baker/Herald

STEPPING OUT

Mamma Mia

Celebrated South Shore

Some final notes: music director bids farewell

By Karen Bloom

t’s the end of era. The South Shore Symphony’s distinguished music director and conductor Scott Jackson Wiley will pass on his baton after the orchestra’s performance at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre on Sunday.

Broadway comes to Long Island with Plaza Theatrical’s staging of ‘Mamma Mia,’ based on ABBA’s timeless songs. Journey to the Greek Isles in this jukebox musical. ABBA’s greatest hits are woven into the sunny tale, an ultimate feel-good show. On the eve of her wedding, a bride’s quest to discover her father’s identity brings three men from her mother’s past back to the place they last visited 20 years ago. Inspired by the storytelling magic of ABBA’s songs — from ‘Dancing Queen’ and ‘Take A Chance On Me,’ to ‘Super Trouper’ and ‘Thank you For the Music’ — an enchanting story of family and friendship unfolds. Relive those ‘70s melodies in a joyous show that’ll have everyone humming along.

STEPPING OUT

Creative advocacy

The annual concert at the majestic church is a fitting finale to Wiley’s 25-year tenure. The full orchestra — all 80 musicians — demonstrate the breadth and depth of their musicianship performing Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection.” The Diocesan Choir with guest soloists — along with organist Michael Bauer, director of music at St. Agnes — also participate. The vast work, lasting nearly 90 minutes, commands a complete orchestra, with extra brass, choir, soprano and contralto soloists.

“This is the third time in 25 years that we’ve played it,” says principal cellist Wayne Lipton, who is delighted the orchestra has another opportunity to perform Mahler’s masterpiece with Wiley at the podium.

“It’s an overwhelming experience with the sound of so many musicians. The music is just incredible,” he says. “It’s a very dramatic piece. Each time we do it, the audience jumps to their feet at the end.”

He expects a similar reaction yet again.

“The organ in the last movement is very powerful. Plus, we have a huge amount of brass, five trumpets and 11 or 12 French horns. So that’s a lot of firepower, plus two harps and the organ. You add it all together and it’s a powerful statement. If I were going out as a conductor, this is the piece I’d want to conduct. We’re so pleased to play it as his swan song.”

By Karen Bloom

WHERE WHEN

• June 4, 7 p.m.

From their roots in the Five Towns back in 1983, the South Shore Symphony has grown and flourished as a regional orchestra of note. For much of that time, Lipton — as the orchestra’s president since 1991 — and Wiley, who came on board in 1997, have been a forceful presence in guiding the orchestra through its many phases of growth.

Thursday, June 1, 2 p.m.; Friday, June 2, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, June 3, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 4, 2:30 p.m., $49, $45 seniors. Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. For tickets, visit PlazaTheatrical.com, or call (516) 599-6870.

Pat McGann

• Free admission; $20 per person suggested donation

• Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• St. Agnes Cathedral, 29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre

“When Scott arrived, we were playing at South Shore Middle School. Since then, we’ve grown exponentially,” Lipton says. “For me, I’ve learned the orchestral repertoire as principal cellist. He took his time with us and challenged us. One of his greatest attributes is as a teacher.” (Wiley taught at Mannes College and as a diction coach in Italian, French, Spanish and Catalan, among his other roles).

• Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, South Campus, Hempstead. For information and to RSVP, call (516) 463-5672, or visit Hofstra.edu/museum

“I’m proud to have been the music director of the South Shore Symphony for these past 25 years and to be named its Conductor Laureate,” Wiley says. “It’s been immensely rewarding to have worked in close collaboration with Wayne Lipton, an important leader in the community. Through the orchestra’s residency at the Madison Theatre and under its director Angelo Fraboni, we have established an enduring bond with Molloy University, and have forged extraordinary musical partnerships.

• Visit SSSymphony.org for information

“When We All Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines the collective power of the arts in society.

“I am also proud as well to have founded and directed Long Island Lyric Opera, under the sponsorship of Marty Bevilaqua, and to have brought operatic masterpieces by Mozart, Bizet and Puccini to the Madison Theatre. A home for all serious orchestral musicians, I am particularly pleased that the South Shore Symphony continues to draw an ever-increasing number of its players from the ranks of the gifted and dedicated music teachers of Long Island, who are the true stewards of music in the community.

Curated by Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and collection — the exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence.

The orchestra’s move to the then-newly opened Madison Theatre on the Molloy University campus in 2012 brought Wiley and his orchestra to greater prominence. New collaborations included a yearly performance of “The Nutcracker” with local dance company, Leggz Ltd. Dance. There was also opera and musical productions with University’s CAP21 theatre arts students, and special guests.

“I’m honored to pass the baton to maestro Adam Glaser, of Hofstra University and the Juilliard School, and I look forward greatly to following the orchestra under his leadership.”

“It highlights the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that promise equality and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” Giordano says. “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be ignored. The artists in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art and activism on issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, voting rights, racial bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making of art with public service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their communities and the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to stand with them.”

“It’s been a long and successful trip with Scott,” Lipton adds. “I’m thrilled to have been a part of his life all these years.”

As for Wiley, an accomplished French hornist who also plays the violin, the piano, and the flamenco guitar, it’s a time of transition. But not certainly not “retirement,” in the traditional sense.

This exhibit, which runs through July 28, is in conjunction with Hofstra’s 13th presidential conference on the Barack Obama presidency coming up in April.

Wiley will remain active as music director of the Centre Symphony Orchestra in Manhattan and as a guest conductor. He will also continue as a conducting teacher and coach, and with his own studies.

His musical journey continues, as it surely does for the South Shore Symphony. “It’s been a wonderful year,” Lipton adds. “This the best orchestra we’ve ever had and a nice way to end our run with Scott. We’re a wonderful family of people creating together and there’s much more to come.”

“We were interested in the idea that the artist has a civic responsibility,” says museum director Karen Albert. “The initial idea for this exhibition was inspired by an Obama Administration White House briefing that took place on May 12, 2009, where more than 60 artists and creative organizers met with administration officials to

Jessie’s Girl

Pat McGann is quickly rising as one of the sharpest stand-ups on the comedy scene. A relative latecomer to comedy, he began doing standup at 31 after realizing he was not very good at selling packaging. He hustled his way to become the house emcee at Zanies Chicago, where he distinguished himself as especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father of 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 act for Sebastian Maniscalco, moving with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square Garden. McGann’s relatively short, but impressive resume, includes Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival, and more. McGann still calls Chicago home.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

It’s time to drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those crazy days are back— as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off. The band of NYC’s top rock/pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that ‘Back to the Eighties’ vibe with a 10th anniversary edition of their popular concert experience. It features a lineup that includes four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as ‘80s icons, backed by a dynamic band. Throw on top of that dynamic choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Jessie’s Girl has mastered over-the-top renditions of the some of world’s most unforgettable songs, all while dressed up as the iconic characters of that decade. This is theatre meets live music, covered in ‘80s glitz.

Friday, June 2, 8 p.m. $45, $35, $30, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com, or ParamountNY.com.

Photos courtesy South Shore Symphony

Maestro Scott Jackson Wiley (top right) will pick up his baton one more time as conductor of the South Shore Symphony Orchestra for its annual concert at St. Agnes Cathedral.

Can art change the world? It’s a question that’s been at the focus of our collective culture for centuries. Now as society navigates the complexities of modern life, art as a path for social change is at the forefront of artistic expression.

THE SCENE

Iris Dement

June

1

North High School Graduation

Valley Stream North High School will host its graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 22, starting at 5:30 p.m. For more information, contact the district clerk at (516) 872-5628 visit districtclerk@vschsd.org.

June 9

The Americana singersongwriter visits the Landmark stage, Friday, June 9, 8 p.m., with her timeless songs that blend traditional folk, country, and gospel influences. Iris DeMent is considered one of the finest singer-songwriters in America today, with an inimitable voice as John Prine described, “like you’ve heard, but not really.” Her unforgettable melodies are rooted in hymns, gospel and old country music. Praised for her storytelling and songwriting abilities, her career has spanned over three decades, seven studio albums and collaborations with John Prine, Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle, among others. On her transcendent new record, “Workin’ On A World,” DeMent faces the modern world — as it is right now — with its climate catastrophe, pandemic and epidemic of violence and social injustice — and not only asks us how we can keep working towards a better world, but implores us to love each other, despite our very different ways of seeing. Her songs are her way of healing our broken inner and outer spaces. $43, $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or LandmarkOnMainStreet.org.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s exhibition, “Eye And Mind: The Shin Collection,” highlights the extraordinary collection masterworks assembled by 31-year-old connoisseur Hong Gyu Shin, an internationally recognized figure in the global art world. He shares his treasures, including works by Whistler, Lautrec, Boucher, Daumier, Delacroix, Klimt, Schiele, Balthus, Warhol, de Kooning, Gorky and many other important names from art history provocatively juxtaposed with the painting and sculpture of our own time from both Asia and the West. On view through July 9. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Breastfeeding Support Group

Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year).All new moms are welcome. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure your spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.

Valley Stream through the Arts

The Henry Waldinger Memorial library will be hosting a virtual art exhibit named “The Art & Legacy of Judith Zabatta Youshock”

Wednesday, June 28 ,at 7:30 p.m. Registration is required. For more information, contact library director Mamie Eng at (516) 8256422 or visit ValleyStreamLibrary. org.

Colin Jost

The SNL star brings his standup act to The Paramount stage, Thursday, June 1, 8 p.m. As one of SNL’s main writers, he’s never at a loss for words. $89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 7453000 or Ticktmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Matt Khan Art Exhibit

The Valley Stream Historical Society hosts an exhibit of Matt Khan’s artwork, Friday, June 2, at 7 p.m., at Pagan-Fletcher Restoration. 143 Hendrickson Ave. For more information, call (516) 872-4159 or visit Vsvny. org.

Passion for Pride

Support PFY, a division of Long Island Crisis Center, at a 30th Anniversary Benefit celebration, Tuesday, June 13, 6-10 p.m. With drag bingo and performances by Ivy Stalls and Syn; also special guest honoree actor-authoractivist Maulik Pancholy. The event, honoring PFY’s 30 years serving Long Island/Queens’ LGBTQ+ communities, is at Westbury Manor, 1100 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury. For more information and tickets, go to tinyurl.com/pfyevent2023.

Whale of a Drink fundraiser

Support The Whaling Museum by participating in Sandbar restaurant’s Whale of a Drink, Whale of a Cause fundraising effort, now through June 21

Enjoy the Sandbar’s iconic cocktail, the Whalebone, and a portion of the purchase will be donated to the museum. A “mocktail” version is also available. To help promote the fundraiser, mixologist Dan Leopold will offer a mixology demonstration and Whalebone tasting at the Museum’s Whales & Ales event on June 3, 2:30-3 p.m. Funds will support the Whaling Museum’s community education programs during its 2023 summer season. 55 Main St, Cold Spring Harbor. For information, visit SandbarColdSpringHarbor.com.

District 24 meeting

Valley Stream District 24 Board of Education meets, Wednesday, June 7, 7:30 p.m., at William L. Buck School. 75 Horton Ave. For more information, send an email to district clerk Lourdes Onesto at districtclerk@vs24.org or visit ValleyStream24.com.

Having an event?

June 2

Broadway on Long Island

Plaza Theatrical goes to the Greek Isles with this enchanting tale, based on ABBA’s timeless songs, Friday, June 2, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 3, 2:30 p.m. The show features “Dancing Queen” “Super Trooper,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” and more. It’s performed at Plaza’s stage at the Elmont Library Theatre, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $49, $45 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

District 13 meeting

Valley Stream District 13 Board of Education meets, Wednesday, June 14, at 8 p.m. at James A. Dever School. 585 Corona Ave. For more information, call (516) 5686100 or visit ValleyStream13. com.

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

On stage

Back by popular demand, families will enjoy a musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved children’s books, on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage, Thursday and Friday, June 1-2, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, June 3, 2 p.m.

Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences. Together with nutty backup singers, The Squirrelles, the comedic duo even gets the audience involved in the action. $9 with museum admission ($7 members), $12 theater only. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

‘The Beautiful and Damned’

Enjoy a musical interpretation of the classic novel at Westbury House, Friday, June 9, 7-10 p.m. Before there was Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote “The Beautiful and Damned”: a story that delves into the psychological tribulations of, at first, having everything you’ve ever wanted. What first presents itself as a beautiful love story quickly turns harrowing as the characters struggle to keep themselves afloat. As New York City tumbles into the Jazz Age, Fitzgerald’s characters tumble down a financial and psychological spiral they may never recover from. This adaptation by Long Island native Brooke Di Spirito combines Fitzgerald’s meticulously detailed novel with the elements of a stage musical: a brand new script, score, choreography. Reservations required. $40. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.

June 9

IN A BUSINESS BUILT ON SOUND, HE HAD A VISION.

Anyone can learn to lifeguard, even dummies

By BRENDAN CARPENTER bcarpenter@liherald.com

There was “Investing for Dummies,” “iPhones for Dummies,” and even “Anti-Inflammatory Diets for Dummies.”

Now, the latest in the series -— and the title of this one may scare some people — is “Lifeguarding for Dummies.”

You certainly wouldn’t want your lifeguard to be a dummy, and neither do the coauthors, Cary Epstein and Cameron DeGuzman, who penned the recently published book, which is really all about how to become a lifeguard and safety in the water.

“The book really has two audiences,” said Epstein. “The first audience, the primary audience, is it’s for anybody that may be interested in a career in lifeguarding. The second audience is people that are already lifeguarding. I think a current lifeguard can pick up this book and really relate to everything we’re talking about.”

Epstein, 43, has been lifeguarding at Jones Beach for the past 26 years. Growing up in Hewlett, he remembers being on the swim team and, in 10th grade, his coach, who was a Jones Beach lifeguard, used to give out lifeguarding T-shirts. He knew he wanted to be one in the future.

When he was 16, he took his first lifeguard test and worked at the Sands in Atlantic Beach. Then, once he turned 17, he spent one summer guarding the oceans there before getting the gig at Jones Beach. He still runs training courses at the Sands alongside his main summer lifeguarding routine. He moved to Long Beach four years ago.

“Water safety and lifeguarding has been a passion of mine,” he said. “I’m a hardcore beach lover, ocean lover, swimmer and, most importantly, water safety advocate.”

Even with all his experience and training classes, he never thought of writing a book to teach others the skills. That was until one of his fellow Jones Beach lifeguards, Cameron DeGuzman, got an interesting message on LinkedIn.

“I’m a big LinkedIn guy,” DeGuzman, a lifeguard of nine years, said. “When someone reaches out to you, it’s a little suspicious if they don’t have like a profile picture that’s immediately viewable to you. But after speaking with Cary, we replied to Jennifer Yee, who’s the editor and has been an awesome piece to this puzzle, and it went off from there.”

For prospective Long Beach guards, the training regime is rigorous. Lifeguard hopefuls, and returning guards, must swim 200 yards in a recreation center pool in a maximum time of about 2 minutes, 45 seconds, and finish a one-mile run on the boardwalk in no more than nine minutes.

Whether it be new, or experienced, water watchers, lifeguarding can now be more easily picked up and learned by anyone, thanks to Lifeguarding for Dummies.

The chapters cover everything there is to know. There are chapters about the history, the training, how to stay in shape, rules to follow, and so much more. The book has about 300 pages of water safety knowledge to learn.

The writing process started off slow for the two of them.

They began talking with the Dummies brand in February of last year. Deadlines began coming up in July and August and they needed to start moving a little fast-

er. “It turned from meeting once a week, to two times a week and then eventually meeting four or five times a week,” DeGuzman recalled.

“We said from the beginning we knew writing a book wasn’t going to be easy, but we’re so knowledgeable on the topic and we love it,” Epstein said. “There were a lot of really late nights on Zoom with Cameron and I cowriting this book together. We really didn’t do a single piece of the book without each other.”

DeGuzman, 24, doesn’t have quite as many years on the beach as Epstein, being a lifeguard for the past nine years, but was able to bring his perspective to the table. They’re both EMTs, former swimmers and current ocean lifeguards that just wanted to teach and show everyone all the different aspects of protecting swimmers.

“I think the book should not be treated like a manual,” DeGuzman said. “You learn a lot more being a lifeguard. You’re getting a lot of new skills and those skills and complex things are more than just pulling someone that’s drowning out of the water.”

W ater safety and lifeguarding has been a passion of mine

CARy EPsTEiN

Co-author and lifeguard

Cameron DeGuzman Cary Epstein

New Alzheimer’s respite care park offers some peace

By MALLORY WILSON mwilson@liherald.com

A new space dedicated exclusively to those with Alzheimer’s disease and their families has been added to Eisenhower Park.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and Nassau County opened a new respite care relief park to help those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, as well as their caregivers. The Eisenhower Park location is the second one of its sort in the country — the only other one is in the Town of Babylon.

More than 50,000 people on Long Island — or 3 percent — live with Alzheimer’s disease. Across the country, that number jumps to 6.2 million people — or one in every 53 — said Chuck Fuschillo, president and chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. There are more than 100,000 caregivers.

We created “a respite relief park to give them a place to get out in the open,” Fuschillo said. “Obviously in the beautiful park that’s here in Eisenhower Park, but also for the caregivers to come to a safe setting to avoid caregiver burnout. The caregivers in this county — and throughout the island — really are our heroes.”

The park was created both to serve those living with the disease, and to recognize the caregivers. It includes educational information about dementia and Alzheimer’s, along with benches, a brick walkway, a gazebo, and greenery. Its purpose is to enable a caregiver to have much-needed relief, and learn more about what resources are available for them.

It’s also a place for a caregiver and their individual with Alzheimer’s or dementia to come and chat in a peaceful, outdoor area.

“This is an integral part of what this park is about,” Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said. “It’s not just about sporting events, it’s not just about cultural

events, it’s not just about entertainment — it’s about a place where people can go to be with nature, in a peaceful setting. And it’s incredibly important to those who have been afflicted with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”

Blakeman heard from many who have family members with Alzheimer’s or dementia about how disrupting it is for those families.

“They need places to go. They need programs. And that’s what the American Alzheimer’s Foundation does,” the county executive said.

“They create these programs. They create an environment to help not only people who are afflicted, but also those people who are living with it each and every day — the families and the caregivers.”

Private donors funded the park’s creation. Other money came from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, a charitable organization that gives money for health care and health-related initiatives in New York. The foundation helped fund the Town of Babylon location, and a new one that will be built in Yonkers this fall.

Fuschillo thanked county legislator Tom McKevitt for taking the lead on the project after the legislature approved the park.

“Alzheimer’s is not only so tough for the person who’s going through it, but especially to the family and caregivers — it’s completely consuming to their life,” McKevitt said. “They want to have a place where they can go with their relative, with their loved one, and have a few moments of peace.”

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America was founded in 2002 by Bert Brodsky, whose mother lived with Alzheimer’s disease between 1980 and 1992. At the time that he was caring for her, Brodsky found there was not a lot of information out there regarding the disease, and he struggled with how to find support.

Now, the foundation helps hundreds of thousands of people annually.

“I never thought I could affect anybody’s life but my own, but I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to start the foundation and help those families that are dealing with this terrible, terrible disease,” Brodsky said.

“The respite park is a perfect example of what could happen when you put your mind to something, and you try and make the world just a little bit better.”

Mallory Wilson/Herald BeRt BROdSkY, the founder and board chair of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, shares his experience of taking care of his mother, who had Alzheimer’s, during the unveiling of a respite care relief park at Eisenhower Park’s Field 6.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: ABASC, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 08/08/22. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: c/o The Carter Firm LLC, 229-19 Merrick Blvd, #235, Laurelton, NY 11413

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 139467

issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

139458

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

TD BANK, N.A., Plaintiffagainst - SAFET KARADUZOVIC, et al

Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 7, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or

Shine” on the 9th day of June, 2023 at 4:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Nassau County, New York.

Premises known as 51 Manor Road, Valley Stream, New York 11580-0000.

(Section: 37, Block: 290, Lot: 806)

Approximate amount of lien $450,048.70 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 013052/2010.

Robert Cristiano, Esq., Referee.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170

Tel. 347/286-7409

Dated: March 31, 2023

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules

COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISTION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK PULSIFER, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 17, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 13, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 160 East Maujer Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 6 and Lot 432. Approximate amount of judgment is $323,747.17 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609580/2017. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 181933-1

139464

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. CARLA GIORDANI, et al, Defts. Index #611711/2020.

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Sept. 14, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 39, Block 511, Lot 7. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are

other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale.

JUDGE

SCOTT SILLER, Referee.

LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #100367

139460

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the Pooling and Servicing Agreement dated as of April 1, 2005 Park Place Securities, Inc.

Asset-Backed PassThrough Certificates

Series 2005-WHQ2, Plaintiff

AGAINST

Harisson William; Beatrice William, Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale

duly entered June 25, 2018 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side

Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 21, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 150 Ormonde Boulevard, Valley Stream, NY 11580.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block 431 Lots 350 & 351.

Approximate amount of judgment $336,196.36 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 005536/2014. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19

Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed

Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Lisa Segal Poczik, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP

f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624

(877) 430-4792

Dated: April 12, 2023

139542

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES

2016-CTT, Plaintiff, vs. PATRICK W. FEASER, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 10, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive,

Mineola, NY 11501 on June 27, 2023 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 91 Flower Road, Valley Stream, NY 11581. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 39, Block 526 and Lot 29. Approximate amount of judgment is $437,002.56 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #002163/2017. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

George Esernio, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 180553-1

139722

LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM

OFFICE OF THE VILLAGE TREASURER

123 South Central Avenue Valley Stream New York 11580

(516) 825-4200

LEGAL NOTICE

COLLECTION OF VILLAGE TAXES

PUBLIC NOTICE IS

HEREBY GIVEN that the tax roll and warrant have been delivered to the Village Treasurer for the collection of the taxes levied on such roll.

Taxes will be collected at Village Hall from June 1 to and including July 1, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays.

Taxes can be mailed to Village Hall postmarked on or before July 1, 2023.

Taxes can be paid on line. See the Village website www.vsvny.org home page for the link.

Pursuant to Real Property Tax Law §1432 the required interest to be added will be a 5% penalty after July 1, 2023 and 1% a month for every month late thereafter.

Dated: Valley Stream, New York June 1, 2023

MICHAEL FOX Village Treasurer 139836

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

Guy Ferrara dances his way into readers’ hearts

compiling a narrative of his life, which includes photos from a scrapbook. Ferrara describes his book as “a thousand pieces that were put together by me and my editor.”

“I wanted to preserve history — it’s very important to me,” he said. “That’s why I’ve been the president of the Valley Stream Historical Society for 10 years.”

Ferrara has a deep appreciation for archiving events of historical importance, having spent three years recording and collecting traces of Valley Stream’s aeronautical past at Curtiss Airfield, which flying heavyweights of the early 20th century like Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh put on the map.

“I interviewed Charles Lindbergh’s grandson,” Ferrara said. “I mean, who does that?”

His book overflows with stories from

his own past. While an account of his life may naturally appeal to history buffs, Ferrara hopes his energy and zest for life come through on the page, and will reel in a wide variety of readers.

“Be entertained,” he said. “Every night, read one story, and you’ll fall asleep laughing.”

And he hopes to inspire readers to “get out there, take risks, and try everything,” Ferrara said. “This coming from a man who auditioned for Radio City Music Hall at 75 years old.”

Staying true to the title of his book, he still dances as often as he can, and had no problem showing off some of his favorite dance moves to the audience at the book signing. He plans to continue dancing into the future, and on weekends you can find him at various nightclubs across Long Island. “Dancing My Way Through Life” can be found on Amazon.

Public Notices

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 6/07/23 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 358/23. NR VALLEY

STREAM - Milton Uruchima & Selena Merino, Mother/Daughter Res. (2nd Kitchen)., E/s

Carolyn Ave., 220’ N/o

Clovelly Dr., a/k/a 54 Carolyn Ave. N.C.P.C.

Local determination. 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 Valley Stream 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

continued from front page

Christine Rivera/Herald Village icon gaetano ‘Guy’ Ferrara hosted a book signing of his autobiography, ‘Dancing My Way Through Life,’ at the Pagan-Fletcher Restoration on May 21.

Employment HERALD

Administrative Opening Monticello Central School High School Principal

H ebrew Academy of Long Beach seeks educators to join our exceptional school faculty in fostering a culture of academic exploration and excellence and dedication to spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth of all students. We are currently looking for candidates in the following divisions:

Lev Chana Early Childhood: Early Childhood Assistant Teachers

HALB Elementary School: Assistant Teachers

Part Time Morah

Middle School Morah

Full Time Rebbe

Middle School Math Teacher

DRS Yeshiva High School for Boys:

English Teacher

Science Teacher

Learning Center Teacher

Assistant College Guidance Counselor

SKA High School for Girls:

Graphic Design Teacher

Ivrit Teacher

Halacha Teacher

AP Computer Science Teacher

To learn more about our school community, please visit www.halb.org. We look forward to hearing from you!

Please send resumes or inquiries to resumes@halb.org

Assistant Secondary Principal

The successful candidate should possess: Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record of successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social-emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate.

Salary Range: $95,000 to $105,000

Certification Required plus

yrs. exp. as a classroom teacher preferred.

Please apply online by June 15th at https://monticelloschools.tedk12.com/hire or OLAS EOE

The Monticello CSD is seeking forward thinking and dynamic School Building Principal who can lead MCSD’s highly engaged faculty, staff, parents, students, and community. The successful candidate will have a vision of educational excellence, be highly motivated, and demonstrates an ability to impact student learning.

Starting Salary: $150,000

NYS SDA/SAS/SBL Certification Required plus 2 yrs. of previous administrative leadership and 3 yrs. exp as a classroom teacher preferred.

Please apply online by June 15th at https://monticelloschools.tedk12.com/hire or OLAS EOE 1134561216569

Administrative Opening Monticello Central School

Assistant Elementary Principal

The successful candidate should possess: Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record of successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social-emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate.

Salary Range: $95,000 to $105,000

NYS SDA/SDL/SBL Certification Required plus 3 yrs. exp as a classroom teacher preferred.

Please apply online by June 15th at https://monticelloschools.tedk12.com/hire or OLAS EOE

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Rockville Centre

Stunning One Of A Kind

Enjoy the summer breeze from your inviting porch, then step inside and be greeted by a stunning formal living room, spacious formal dining room, and eat-in kitchen which features an island and room for a full dining table with a convenient laundry room beyond. Continue on to the oversized den with a cathedral ceiling, skylights, and cozy woodburning stove you can enjoy on a chilly night. Swinging French doors open to an inviting paver patio overlooking the expansive, fully fenced-in yard, large enough for you to add an inground pool, sport court, and more. The second floor boasts a king-sized primary bedroom (once two separate bedrooms) with a jacuzzi-tub en suite plus two additional bedrooms. Hall stairs lead to the thirdfloor attic which is perfect for storage. With a detached 2-car garage, this property has it all. $1,149,000.

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The finer points of roofing

Q. We finally found a home and have fixing-up to do. The first thing is new roofing. We interviewed roofers. One told us he “cuts” in the valleys where the roof meets, and another said he would not recommend that. What do you recommend, and are there other things we should know? The gutters are old and sagging, and not really draining, either.

A. A roof is one of the first things any home buyer should look at before a purchase. The slope of the land and the roof condition are very important.

Roof shingles are chosen depending on the slope of the roof. For example, a steeper slope will get greater wear due to the velocity of the running water, so a heavier architectural shingle is my first choice. Thinner shingles can be used on less sloped roofs, although I recommend the longerlasting, more heavily constructed shingles for steep and low slopes anyway, because they tend to last longer.

If the slope of the roof is less than 3 inches vertically for every 12 inches horizontally, called a 3-in12 pitch, then you should pay more attention to the underlayment. You should pay more, and get the self-adhering, flexible membrane, often referred to as “ice and water shield,” although that is actually a trade name of W.R. Grace. The code refers to the membrane as “ice barrier underlayment.”

The current building code allows for roofing shingles on a 2-inch to 12-inch pitch, but be mindful that building codes establish the minimum requirement, and failure can easily occur on a lower sloping roof when ice forms and water pools and backs up under the shingles and through the hundreds of nail holes that were made when the shingles were nailed into place. Flexible membrane underneath has performed very well over the life of roofing, and grips the nails to limit leaking, but be safe and have the membrane installed across the entire roof. The code requires only that the membrane be installed around the perimeter edges of the roof and on either side of the roof ridge.

As for cutting the valleys — the troughs where the roofs join — I understand that many roofers like the look and believe that seeing the clean metal valley is better because the water runs faster, but the tradeoff is that any time you cut a material and create a joint, the possibility for water penetration is increased. Ice and snow buildup in the valley can cause water to dam and get into the roof.

I recommend weaving the valleys by alternating the shingles and not exposing the valley trough, which should still be installed underneath the woven shingles, over membrane, because, as I have often written, redundancy is the most important thing in construction to prevent leaks. Have the gutters installed so that the downspouts are attached at corners, on trim. It’s a cleaner look. Good luck in your new home!

© 2023 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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What is village business, and what isn’t?

It is my honor to provide some insight into our incorporated Village of Valley Stream. This month I would like to focus on our various governmental jurisdictions. As I enter my fourth term as mayor, my main area of expertise is that of the “incorporated village.” Village government is closest to you, the resident, and it is the jurisdiction that most directly affects your day-today quality of life.

I have never met a mayor or other local elected official who was not happy to help a resident. Sometimes that help might simply be pointing a citizen in the right direction, and that direction will vary greatly depending on the request. While there is much that villages provide, there are some things that are out of our control — for example, state and federal matters. As we get closer to home, it gets a bit more confusing. Counties, towns and school districts have their own responsibilities that differ and sometimes overlap with those of villages. For example, if you need assistance with a Social Security question, you might call the mayor’s office for help, but Social Security falls under the jurisdic-

tion of the federal government. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean my office can’t or won’t try to help cut through some of the bureaucracy, and we are often called to do so. In fact, residents who call our offices will always be greeted by a courteous staff member who will do his or her best to assist them, even if it means helping them navigate the various levels of government and reaching out to our elected partners at the town, county, state or federal level.

Valley Stream is the third-largest village in New York state. It has a population in excess of 40,000 and covers nearly five square miles. It is traversed by 95 miles of roads and has 105 acres of pristine parkland. Like most villages in the state, we provide services that impact our residents’ quality of life via a dedicated workforce throughout our many departments, including Sanitation, Public Works, Parks, Recreation, Senior Services, Buildings, the Clerk’s Office, Public Safety, and Code Enforcement. Within these departments, myriad aspects of daily life are attended to, including road and tree maintenance and snow plowing; adult, youth, and senior recreational and fitness programs; and building, special use, and parking permits, to name a few. As stewards of our

environment, we dedicate a tremendous amount of time and energy to the upkeep of our parks and green spaces. We also cover fire protection and operate a fullservice library without the need for special districts for these services.

As a village, we have no jurisdiction over schools, the LIRR/MTA, or gas, electric and water utilities. Depending on where you live, there are many special districts like fire, water, library, and sanitation. These may also be separate taxing authorities, beyond the purview of the village.

We frequently get inquiries from folks who live in Valley Stream, but outside the boundaries of the incorporated village — in the Mill Brook section, or North Valley Stream. They must often go to the Town of Hempstead for government services. This usually adds to the confusion, and although certain services are available to these residents at “non-resident” rates, we have no governmental jurisdiction over them or their property. But it has been the village’s longstanding policy to open our recreational programs, including very popular pool memberships, to neighboring communities, especially those where the school districts may overlap. We also maintain numerous commuter parking fields, some

of which are considered “non-resident.” The coveted spaces therein are sold to non-Valley Streamers on a cost-adjusted basis.

To make matters even more convoluted, there is much overlap among most levels of government. For example, the town, county and state all have roads that run through the village. Maintenance and traffic patterns require ongoing cooperation between our offices and theirs. And many students of Valley Stream schools live in Lynbrook or Malvern, while some children living in our Gibson section go to Hewlett schools. The school district lines, policies, and taxing authority are wholly out of the village’s jurisdiction, having been established many decades ago.

I know this is confusing, but communication is key. There is no reason to be frustrated by different levels of jurisdiction. Simply ask and our village employees, supervisors and elected officials will be glad to help you. We are in the business of providing services to our residents and taxpayers, and if you are outside our jurisdiction, we can point you in the right direction.

We want residents and neighbors alike to get all services they are entitled to, and to get any assistance with any and all issues that may arise. All anyone has to do is ask.

Edwin Fare has been mayor of Valley Stream since 2011.

Summer reading: To escape or go deep?

Of course, we must have a summer to take up the subject of summer reading. Which reminds me of a great book about Krakatoa, which was blown to oblivion in 1883 when a volcano erupted, creating what became known as the year without a summer. The book “Krakatoa: The Day the World Exploded,” by Simon Winchester, explains that the massive volume of debris thrown into the atmosphere darkened the world for months, not just in Indonesia, but around the globe.

of those people who eventually combusts from the pressure of awful news in the world and starts screaming at the TV or running down the street with my hair on fire. When I was a kid, my escape from stress was reading, and it still is. Still, it’s so hard to concentrate when I see with my own eyes glaciers the size of Rhode Island breaking off the Antarctic continent.

Possibility of Life,” by Jaime Green, on the search for other life in the universe. Think of it as the ultimate escape: Who’s out there, and how can we make contact? Spoiler alert: They won’t come in human form.

nonfiction account of an American soldier who goes back to Afghanistan after the war. His mission is to find the man who worked with him in country and help him escape.

RANDI KREISS

Anyway, what I was saying is that we’ve had plenty of chill winds this spring, but the days ahead look promising. If you’re still in indoor mode, you might pick up Winchester’s book and commiserate with the millions of people in the 19th century who lived in the shade of Krakatoa. I would put that book in the category of “escape,” and I would add a few to the list for those reading to run away. Heaven knows, many of us have our traveling pants on. I feel as if I could become one

But we must persist. Add to the escape literature a blockbuster by a prince of a guy, Harry, the Duke of Sussex. He narrates “Spare,” the audible version of his memoir, in a warm and ironic voice. His tone is intimate and his affect is humble. The royals are an endless source of skullduggery and palace intrigue. This book is infused with tasty morsels of delicious gossip.

Also, pick up “Priestdaddy,” by Patricia Lockwood, the comic memoir of her childhood in a rectory as the daughter of a priest. She uses her own life as copy, and she gets why it would be an entertaining subject even for those of us whose fathers aren’t priests but just fathers.

One more on that list would be “The

If distraction and escape aren’t possible, if you’re too consumed by the political and cultural moment, then just give in and read deeply and widely so you can broaden your base of information and at least understand why the world is going to hell.

I’m leaning toward nonfiction and short stories these days. Try “The Great Leveler,” by Walter Scheidel. In this wellreviewed nonfiction book, he argues that only catastrophes like pandemics and great, violent upheavals like world wars can ever address economic inequality. Hey, you’re depressed anyway — might as well be educated as to why.

“The Soul of America,” by the great Jon Meacham, is a glorious history that basically asks, over many illuminating pages: How do we save our democracy?

“The Naked Don’t Fear the Water,” by Matthieu Aikins, is a timely and telling

“Tenth of December,” on the other hand, is both escapist and deep. The short stories by George Saunders — author of the popular and weird “Lincoln in the Bardo” — are challenging, but you can do it. They require concentration and focus, and that’s a good thing, because it means you may be able to tune out the news. I can’t begin to explain the stories; they defy summarizing. But I urge you to read them and absorb what Saunders has to say about our American culture.

Finally, you can read any number of books about the rise of Donald Trump, the end of civility in America, the undermining of our democracy and the threat of totalitarianism. But if you truly want to examine the real possibilities of the past serving as prologue to the present, try a nonfiction masterpiece, “Hitler,” by Ian Kershaw. One critic called it “mesmerizing,” and said that what was most amazing was the number of opportunities when Hitler might have been stopped in his mad rise to power. Nuf said.

Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

Broaden your base of info, and understand why the world is going to hell.

It’s easy to confuse village, town, county and state jurisdictions. We can help.

EDWIN FARE

HERALD

Learn about dementia, for your sake and others’

Memory loss is common as we get older. Going to the grocery store and forgetting what you went there for. Trying to remember the name of an actor from your favorite movie. Even panicking because you have no idea where you left your keys.

These are experiences many people can relate to, especially once you reach your 50s.

But memory loss may be more than just a sign of aging. It can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s.

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. More than 55 million people worldwide live with the disease or another type of dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Now is a great time to get checked, because early detection could make a major difference in how the disease progresses.

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but doctors recommend medications like galantamine, rivastigmine and donepezil. They’re helpful, according to the National Institute on Aging, because they prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, which is important for memory and learning.

Put simply, the drugs help nerve cells communicate.

There are opportunities for everyone to observe Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. Spreading the word about the

letters

D’Esposito punted on Santos

To the Editor:

importance of being tested for the disease as well as learning about the different types of dementia is something everyone should do.

And knowing the signs of Alzheimer’s can help you help others. The most obvious, of course, is memory loss — specifically about recent events. Difficulty completing tasks that were once part of your routine is another. And sometimes people’s personalities change, and they may become more aggressive, angry or hopeless.

Not being able to find the right word to express oneself is often another sign, as is an inability to do tasks that were once routine.

And while it might not seem related, it really is important to prevent and address hearing loss, even if it involves buying hearing aids. According to Johns Hopkins, hearing loss is estimated to account for 8 percent of dementia cases. Scientists believe hearing loss may actually be a cause of dementia. When you can’t hear, your brain works overtime as it strains to hear and fill in the gaps, which comes at the expense of other thinking and memory systems.

Researchers are also finding that hearing loss causes people to be less engaged. We can all think of a relative who sits in a corner and doesn’t participate at family functions, complaining they can’t hear

The Herald seemed intent on misleading its readers as to the actions of U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito in last week’s story “D’Esposito wants George Santos out of Congress.”

The article stated that D’Esposito “spoke out in support of a resolution to expel his fellow Long Island Republican representative,” leaving the impression that he did all he could to remove Santos from Congress.

What the article left out, however, is that D’Esposito did not vote to expel Santos. Instead, he introduced the resolution that resulted in the matter of expulsion being referred to the House Ethics Committee, which has been investigating Santos since March.

D’Esposito disingenuously defended this vote by claiming that it would be the “quickest way” to rid Congress of Santos. Of course, that is false. The quickest way would have been for the majority of House Republicans — including all those who have called for Santos’ removal — to vote for his expulsion.

Instead, a direct vote on expulsion was blocked by the D’Esposito resolution. While D’Esposito’s rhetoric on Santos is welcome, actions speak louder than words. The people of Long Island and the nation deserved better.

JAy K. GOLDBERG Woodmere

This Floridian agrees with Kremer about DeSantis

To the Editor:

Re Jerry Kremer’s column “Something’s going wrong in Florida” (May 18-24): I totally agree with his observations.

Back in the 1970s, I was a Nassau County Democrat. I spent many days at headquar-

what’s being said.

Don’t ignore them. It’s important for them to be socially engaged, because they need to remain intellectually stimulated in order to avoid dementia. A little patience and encouragement from those around them can go a long way.

If you do find out you have early signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia, don’t give up. Find ways to train your brain to fight the disease. Do crossword puzzles, word searches, Sudoku. Play chess, or even video games. Challenge yourself to learn new information or skills, like how to knit. Enroll in a class.

And for those who can still find their keys, reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia by getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and managing your blood sugar.

Looking for a way to make a difference? Help people with Alzheimer’s by volunteering. The Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia Center, in Westbury, often has volunteers helping at its day program. They act as companions, and help people with memory loss be creative in arts and crafts. It can be a very rewarding experience.

Until there is a cure for Alzheimer’s, it’s important to take care of yourself by being tested and helping those around you who may need that little push. And it’s important to take care of yourself, too.

ters in Mineola. Today I’m living in St. Augustine, Florida. When we moved to this area, Ron DeSantis was our congressman. Then, amazingly, Trump propelled him to the governor’s mansion.

I agree totally with Kremer’s assessment of the person I call “DeMentis” because he’s so crazy. With a compliant and willing legislature, he is turning Florida into our country’s leading autocracy. This state is a stark

Why Nassau needs a strong inspector general’s office

as a legislator who served during the height of corruption in Nassau County and witnessed the indictment of former County Executive Ed Mangano, I know firsthand how important it is to have mechanisms in place to protect taxpayer money from the pitfalls of waste and fraud.

Over the past few years, I have worked closely with my colleagues in the County Legislature’s Democratic minority caucus to strengthen the integrity of Nassau’s procurement system and make the process of awarding contracts as fair and secure as possible. We did so by increasing the rigor of our contract reviews; requiring vendors to submit the names of all principals and any political contributions they have made; and mandating the disclosure of any violations an applicant may have been issued.

Soon afterward, we created the Office of the Inspector General and appointed the county’s first inspector general, Jodi Franzese, with unanimous bipartisan

support following an extensive search. After the fights and scandals of the previous years, this was a truly proud moment in my legislative career, and represented real progress in our ongoing efforts to root out corruption in the county.

Operating as an independent official, the inspector general and their team promote transparency and increase the accountability of county operations by reviewing each contract to detect and prevent waste, fraud, and the abuse of taxpayer money in county procurement. Continued support for the office is critical to ensure the integrity of our procurement system — one that encompasses hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

At a time when the county has received hundreds of millions of dollars in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds and tens of millions more in settlements from the opioid manufacturers and distributors who flooded our communities with dangerous, addictive prescription drugs, I believe this function is especially vital. And with the Legislature’s vote on May 22, the county is also likely to face an array of substantial contracts in the not-too-distant future relat-

Letters

contrast to what it was when we first moved here in 1992. At that time it was affordable, safe and sane. Today it is expensive, dangerous and crazy.

Kremer is correct in his commentary on the sad social and political conditions in Florida in 2023 under the misguidance of Ron DeMentis. I do not believe he can or will win the 2024 Republican nomination, but I am fearful that he can persuade the state legislature to change the two-term governorship limit. That would be devastating to a state his policies have already crippled.

RICHARD CORTELL St. Augustine, Florida

Post-pandemic, we need a new way forward

To the Editor:

During the coronavirus pandemic, New York froze. In particular, health care services froze in their tracks under the strain and demand, and shifted to responding to the new threat to the population’s health.

Unfortunately, health care services and interventions not related to Covid-19 were put on the back burner. As a result, non-Covid health issues were not prioritized, resulting in people getting sicker for a variety of reasons.

Although the pandemic was a prioritizing focus for health departments and the government, other issues did not need to be pushed to the side.

One issue that was left behind was the focus on reducing rates of sexually transmitted diseases, with an increase in infections reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2020.

ed to the redevelopment of the Nassau Hub in Uniondale, the outcome of which will profoundly shape our county for a generation.

However, it appears that there are efforts being made to weaken this crucial government watchdog at a time when I believe it is needed the most.

After her four-year term expired at the end of 2022, Franzese worked for months without being reappointed by the Legislature, putting herself and the entire office in an uncertain position. Without the protection of being formally appointed by a bipartisan, 13-vote supermajority, her ability to accomplish her mission of serving as an independent watchdog was inherently weakened. Our minority caucus introduced legislation in April to extend her contract through 2026. Unfortunately, the majority rejected our proposal.

I can’t help but wonder whether political considerations were a factor in the decision to stall Franzese’s reappointment. Consider this fact: If Republicans capture just one more seat in November, they will establish a 13-vote supermajority in the Legislature. With that, they

Due to the pandemic restrictions imposed to make people safer, many sexual health clinics and health care providers reduced service or close entirely.

Additionally, government resources previously dedicated to reducing STD rates were redirected to address the pandemic.

This allowed rates of STDs such as syphilis and gonorrhea to increase. This scenario is most harmful to adolescents and young adults, who are at disproportionately greater risk of testing positive for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, as the CDC recommends routine testing for this age group. But the pandemic disrupted this routine for many.

In addition, disparities for marginalized communities, such as people of color and men who have sex with men, were exacerbated, with men of color who had sex with men disproportionately testing positive for STDs during the pandemic.

Although the government was required to redirect national health initiatives to address the crisis, a new way forward is needed, because these disparities persist, and there are proven methods of addressing them. Targeted interventions are required to eliminate these disparities, making better use of our local communities to keeping us healthier going forward.

Redirecting funding back to local organizations and health care providers that are addressing these issues is an important start.

Go get tested, and stay safe!

DANIEL MORALES

would have full control of every arm of county government, and could feasibly install an inspector general who would rubber-stamp whatever contracts come before the Legislature, undermining its ability to provide checks and balances as a truly coequal branch of government.

Such an atmosphere would be a tremendous disservice to county taxpayers.

I fear it would also create a fertile breeding ground for a return to the troubles of our recent past at a time when those taxpayers simply can’t afford to go backward.

For all these reasons, I am passionate about preserving and enhancing ethics safeguards like the inspector general’s office. Not only do such entities protect taxpayer money from waste, fraud and abuse, but they also deter future bad actors and help to ensure that elected officials have all the information they need to reach informed decisions. The minority caucus will continue to fight tirelessly to improve the procurement process to make it more open, inclusive and cost-effective, because it is essential for Nassau County to continue down the path of good government and transparency.

Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, of Glen Cove, represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District.

Framework by Tim Baker

Illuminated art, projected onto a wall of the high school — Baldwin

I

t appears there are efforts to weaken this crucial government watchdog.

DeLIa

DerIGGI-wHItton

The author is studying for his master’s degree in public health and management at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy.

The story “Jim Zabatta is V.S. Republican Club’s Person of the Year,” in last week’s issue, was accompanied by the wrong byline. The story was written by Brendan Carpenter, not Juan Lasso.

SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is the nation’s largest youth employment program, connecting the Town of Hempstead (TOH) and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20 with career exploration opportunities and paid work experience each summer.

By participating in structured project and work-based opportunities, Long Island youth are better prepared for careers of the future.

WHAT THE PROGRAM OFFERS

Career Exploration: Hone your research skills and uncover exciting new career possibilities.

Structured Work-based Opportunities: If you're a TOH and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20, you can get paid to learn about different careers and make a positive impact in your community through work-based activities.

Work Experiences: TOH and City of Long Beach youth between the ages of 16 and 20 can develop job readiness skills and explore diverse career pathways through paid summer jobs in various industries throughout Nassau County.

Earn Money: Don't miss out on the chance to earn money while gaining valuable experience and exploring your career options!

WORKSITE PARTNERS

Partner with the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) at HempsteadWorks and provide valuable work experience to youth while expanding your business's staff at no cost. The program pays participant wages in full, so there's no financial burden on the hosting employer. As a SYEP worksite, you can play a vital role in the region's economic development and access a pool of talented, hyperlocal youth who are the future workforce.

Please review the important information below for details on this summer's program.

SYEP 2023:

Participants can work up to 30 hours per week

Rate of pay is $16 per hour, paid by the TOH Participants go through physical clearance and drug screening

Worksite Responsibilities:

Ensuring youth time and attendance procedures are followed, and the timesheets are complete and accurate Supervision of participants, along with guidance and training as appropriate Monitoring youth attendance, punctuality, and job performance

Don Clavin Supervisor