Merrick Herald 09-25-2025

Pushing for construction reform Senators gather to support project labor agreements

By ISABELLA PLANTE Intern

A bipartisan trio of New York State Senators Monica Martinez, a Democrat, and Mario Mattera and Jack Martins, both Republicans, joined union labor leaders and local officials at Norman J. Levy Elementary School in Merrick to rally support for project labor agreements and the Stop Worker Exploitation in Education Act.

The Sept. 9 event highlighted growing concern over how public-school construction projects are awarded and performed. For years, union advocates have argued that taxpayer dollars should be reinvested directly into local communities by ensuring jobs go to qualified, fairly paid New York workers.

Too often, they say, out-of-state contractors are hired instead, undercutting wages, bypassing safety standards, and leaving students and communities with fewer opportunities. The

proposed legislation aims to curb those practices by requiring school construction projects to prioritize the use of local unions.

Project labor agreements are central to the plan. These collective bargaining contracts, struck between building trade unions and contractors, set the terms of pay, benefits, and working conditions in advance—standards advocates say help prevent exploitation while guaranteeing work is completed efficiently and safely.

Josh Slaughter, a local political labor coordinator, said the issue extends beyond wages.

“This is a taxpayer issue,” he said. “Workers are being exploited, children are being sent to unsafe schools, and in [the Merrick School District], one of the contractors was doing asbestos cleanup. If he was cheating his workers, they were probably cheating on how they handled that material as well.”

Some residents and business leaders may

By ISABELLA PLANTE Intern

In a heartfelt tribute to the late mother of a varsity cheerleader, John F. Kennedy High School will host a game night and clinic on Oct. 4, uniting the community to support breast cancer awareness and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.

Although October is focused on bringing attention to breast cancer, the school’s teams have decided to combine pink and green at their home game. The Kennedy High School cheerleading team is spearheading a community campaign to raise awareness for bile duct cancer, along with breast cancer.

The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, founded to address gaps in knowledge surrounding bile duct cancer, raises money to cure and improve patients’ quality of life. The foundation offers caregiver support, a mentorship program, and fundraising research into cancer.

LINdA PuSATERI

Kennedy H.S. varsity cheer coach

“Having this as an additional initiative with it can help carry on her fight and help spread awareness to something so widespread.” cheerleader Chloe Mikhail said of her mother Erica, who passed away in November 2024 after a 10-month battle with bile duct cancer.

Erica Mikhail was diagnosed in January 2024 and the disease rapidly spread until her passing. Her story emphasizes the importance of this event, which aims to honor her memory while raising awareness and support for cancers that are often difficult to detect in their early stages.

“There are a lot of other charities that focus on rare cancers and rare diseases, but this one specifically provides resources to patients and families, it funds research, and spreads awareness altogether,” Mikhail said. “I think it will definitely help to give attention

Courtesy Jeff Rae

State Sen. Monica Martinez speaks at Norman J. Levy Elementary School in Merrick in a discussion on project labor agreements and the Stop Worker Exploitation in Education Act on Sept. 9.

Medical students participate in simulations

By ISABELLA PLANTE Intern

First-year medical students ended their eight-week EMT program by participating in mass-casualty incident simulations at the Nassau County Fire Service Academy in Bethpage on Sept. 19.

The Fire Academy, led by former North Merrick Fire Chief Paul Wilders, partnered with Dr. David Battinelli of Northwell Health and the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra to oversee the program.

Battinelli, in his fourth year as dean of Northwell’s medical school and an 18-year veteran of the facility, was one of the original creators of the curriculum. He oversaw the program’s transition from Randall’s Island to the Fire Academy.

The five simulations included a train derailment, a bus bombing, an active shooter, a chemical exposure with a decontamination component, and autoextrication with patient removal.

“The medical school was founded on the principle that it would break what would be known as the traditional medical school mold,” Battinelli said. “And what we did was decide that this would be four years of fully integrated clinical and science learning.”

The approach aims to help students reach the level of expertise expected in medicine, focusing on applying and prac-

ticing science and safety in real settings rather than preparing for another set of standardized multiple-choice exams.

Groups of 100 medical students rotated through the five simulation exercises while working alongside academy faculty, EMTs, firefighters, paramedics and police officers. At the conclusion of the program, students earned EMT certification through the Zucker school.

“There’s no other school that does it to the depth we have,” Battinelli said. “No one even comes close.”

The first step for medical students is

earning their EMT certifications, which not only licenses them in New York but also provides essential hands-on experience and collaboration. Unlike a traditional EMT curriculum, their program is tailored to reflect the clinical mindset and future responsibilities of physicians in training.

Wilders said there was no better place for Northwell students to learn their craft than in their own backyard. The training is designed to prepare students to respond under pressure, equipping them with the skills and experienc-

es that will ultimately make them better physicians.

Wilders described it as building recognition-primed decision-making, a process in which repeated exposure to realworld scenarios helps students store experiences in their “mental hard drive” and recall them instinctively in moments of crisis.

“It’s a form of professional muscle memory, developed through practice in the field,” he said.

Students also learned how to work as a cohesive team in high-stress situations. By managing chaotic scenarios together, they practiced compartmentalizing stress and staying focused on the task at hand.

Wilders noted that one of the challenges in planning the exercises was setting expectations, particularly around the active-shooter simulation.

“That’s a very sensitive issue for many people,” he said. “Because for students, it is still a reality. It could be their school tomorrow.”

First-year medical student Eva Nee, after completing her fifth round of simulations, reflected on the importance of preparing for events that may be unlikely but remain a very real possibility.

“It definitely gives you a sense of respect for first responders out there and what they deal with—the patient’s emotions before they enter that controlled environment in the hospital,” Nee said.

Isabella Plante/Herald

Colts unite for spirited homecoming weekend

Sanford H. Calhoun High School capped a week of tradition and celebration with a convincing 35-12 football win over Roosevelt on Sept. 20, highlighting the school’s annual homecoming festivities.

The Colts set the tone on the field with a decisive victory, while the stands were filled with students, alumni, families, and neighbors celebrating a week that showcased school pride across Merrick.

Quarterback Tim Lynch had a rushing touchdown and went 8-for-12 for 173 yards in the air with passing scores to Jake Baci and Andrew Licar. Joe Belbol and John Ruisi also ran for touchdowns.

On defense, the Colts were led by A.J. Nill Jr., who had 10 tackles and two sacks, and Nick Maresca, who had seven tackles and a fumble recovery.

In the days leading up to the game, students took part in hallway decorating contests, a spirited pep rally, and the beloved Colt Fest, which brought the community together with food, games, and music. The celebrations concluded with a well-attended homecoming dance.

Halftime offered a showcase of Calhoun’s talent and tradition. The Calhoun Rock Band, directed by Ed Tumminelli, delivered a rousing set that kept fans on their feet. The school’s kickline and cheerleading squads also took to the field, blending precision and energy as they led the crowd in school spirit.

The Booster Club used the occasion to debut The Shack, a renovated snack stand offering refreshments for fans and serving as a new centerpiece of community involvement at home games.

Capping off the week, seniors Jacob Graber and Ryan Karis were crowned homecoming king and queen during the dance, a festive finale to a celebration that blended tradition, performance, and athletic triumph.

Scott Bersin, assistant superintendent for curriculum, Melissa Rohr, a special education chairperson, Michael Hughes, acting/ interim principal of Calhoun, Eric Gomez, assistant superintendent for personnel and administration, Danielle Amato, assistant principal, Mark Melkonian, assistant principal, and Nicholas Grande, interim assistant principal, all took part in the festivities.

–Brian Kacharaba

Students were all decked out in blue to celebrate homecoming at Calhoun.

Seniors Jacob Graber and Ryan Karis were crowned homecoming king and queen.

Photos courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

The Calhoun Rock Band, led by Ed Tumminelli, offered musical interludes and a rocking halftime performance.

Protecting Your Future

The Farmer’s Daughters

A farmer came in to see us with this dilemma. He had a working farm where his twenty something daughter and her husband were engaged full-time. His other daughter worked in the arts in New York City. He wanted to keep the farm in the family, but didn’t know how.

He initially wanted to leave the farm and his other assets to the two daughters in equal shares. We cautioned against this since, we advised, no one likes to do all the work and then split the profts. Additionally, real estate prices could be considerably higher on his death and there might not be enough money in the estate for the working daughter to buy out her sister. We also had to consider the sweat equity the young couple would be building up over the years working the farm. Here’s how the matter was ultimately resolved to the client’s satisfaction.

We deeded the farm now to the working daughter (not her and her husband quite yet) reserving a “life estate” in the farmer so that he had a right to live there for the rest of his

life while preserving his senior tax exemption on the property. We established the value of the property today, and made a bequest on his death, from the farmer’s living trust, of a like amount in cash to the sister before the balance of the trust was divvied up.

Now the young working couple are secure in their future, the non-working daughter gets her fair share of the estate and the farmer is protected in his rights for life. Most important of all, he has the peace of mind in knowing that the farm will stay in the family.

If you’re a business owner, and have one or more children working in the business, you have the same issues. We generally like to see the “working” children take over the business and other assets used to even out the estate distribution with the “non-working” children. Where there are not enough other assets to make the distribution even, then life insurance or a mortgage can be used for this purpose, or the “working” children can pay off the “nonworking” children over a period of years at a rate the family business can afford.

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Over 700 district students recognized by college board

The Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District is celebrating a major academic milestone, with 731 students recognized this year by the College Board’s Advanced Placement Scholars Program for their outstanding performance on AP exams.

The program honors high school students who demonstrate college-level mastery through their exam results. Recognition is granted at three levels. The AP Scholar designation goes to students who score a three or higher on three or more exams. The AP Scholar with Honor award is reserved for those who earn an average score of at least 3.25 on all exams taken and a score of three or higher on four or more. The highest distinction, AP Scholar with Distinction, is given to students with an average score of at least 3.5 and scores of three or higher on five or more exams.

Of the 731 Bellmore-Merrick students honored, 263 were named AP Scholars, 169 were recognized as AP Scholars with Honor, and 299 achieved the AP Scholar with Distinction award. In addition to these accomplishments, 59 students earned the AP Capstone Diploma, which requires successful performance in both AP Seminar and AP

Research as well as on four additional AP exams.

Another 24 students received the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, highlighting their achievement in completing the College Board’s two-year program focused on independent research, critical thinking and presentation skills.

Scott Bersin, assistant superintendent for curriculum, praised the students and the support system that helped them succeed.

“The district congratulates all recognized students, their families, and our dedicated educators who supported them,” he said. “This remarkable accomplishment reflects the commitment to academic excellence that defines our school community.”

The recognition spans across the district’s three high schools — John F. Kennedy, Sanford H. Calhoun and Wellington C. Mepham — and highlights the range of students who challenged themselves through rigorous coursework.

For Bellmore-Merrick, the results mark another strong showing in the College Board program, with hundreds of students meeting or exceeding benchmarks set for advanced academic performance.

–Brian Kacharaba

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

AP Seminar students at Wellington C. Mepham High School started working on their collaboration and presentation skills this school year.

sTEfAno BoRsEllIno HEWLETT Senior FOOTBALL

A TWO-YEAR STARTING safety, Borsellino is no stranger to the high school gridiron. Only this year, he’s stepped into Hewlett’s starting quarterback role. So far, so good. In his first-ever start under center, Borsellino guided the Bulldogs to a 35-12 win over visiting Mineola in the Conference III opener Sept. 12. He passsed for 181 yards and two touchdowns and added 109 yards rushing and a score. He also booted three extra points.

GAMES TO WATCH

Friday, Sept. 26

Boys Soccer: Uniondale at Freeport 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Lynbrook at V.S. South 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: V.S. North at Wantagh 5 p.m.

Football: Uniondale at Westbury 5 p.m.

Football: Elmont at Manhasset 6 p.m.

Boys Volleyball: Elmont at Sewanhaka 6:15 p.m.

Football: Hempstead at Massapequa 6:30 p.m.

Football: Herricks at Farmingdale 6:30 p.m.

Football: Freeport at Syosset 6:30 p.m.

Football: North Shore at Malverne 7 p.m.

Football: Lawrence at Carle Place 7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 27

Girls Soccer: South Side at MacArthur 10 a.m.

Girls Soccer: Massapequa at Garden City 10 a.m.

Girls Soccer: Syosset at Oceanside 10 a.m.

Girls Soccer: Manhasset at Long Beach 1 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Glen Cove at Hewlett 1 p.m.

Football: Kennedy at Calhoun 2

Football: East Meadow at Garden City 2

Football: Hewlett at Wantagh 2 p.m.

Football: Long Beach at Mepham 2 p.m.

Football: Carey at South Side 2 p.m.

Football: Port Washington at Oceanside 2 p.m.

Football: Sewanhaka at Clarke 6:30 p.m.

nominate a “spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Calhoun back to contender status

BY GARRETT D. URIBE sports@liherald.com

While a postseason surge saw Calhoun finish as a Nassau Class AA semifinalist, the Colts girls’ soccer team found last fall, on balance, to be less than satisfying.

Coming off a Nassau Conference 2 title, Calhoun last season, in Conference 1, would see its promotion to the county’s top tier spoiled by - among other things - several key injuries, the Colts struggling to a three-win season overall, their two wins against league opponents coming in the playoffs.

Returning to Nassau 2 this autumn, Calhoun appears to have claimed its Mulligan, acting as though it never left – the first-place Colts bolting to 4-1-1 in league (5-1-1 overall) to regain their old perch atop the conference, with a key Sept. 11 win over fellow league leader Carey banked for use as a possible tiebreaker.

Though certain that his club’s swagger is back, Calhoun coach Jason Elias –whose team boasts the league’s top defense, allowing 0.7 goals per game –acknowledged it took some convincing for the Colts, themselves, to realize it.

“We needed a good start,” Elias said. “After last year, we weren’t sure, and we needed to know we deserve to do well, deserve to compete for league titles.”

“It wasn’t till our third game, playing Manhasset, that I saw what I’d hoped to see,” Elias added, noting the Colts 2-0 league win on Sept. 6 – the second of three straight shutout victories – was a turning point in terms of his team’s self-confidence.

“That’s when I think they started to believe.”

After three weeks of play, few would doubt the staunchness of Colts defensive pillars Alexa Addonizio and Grace Taormina – both Honorable Mention All-County honorees – or second-yearstarting goalkeeper Abby Da Silva, whose tone-setting style has grown more aggressive, backed by an expanding skill-set.

“Abby is fun to watch,” Elias said. “She’s become a leader. She comes out to

play the ball and she controls it, puts it at players’ feet. She’s been wonderful.”

“Alexa and Grace are two of the best athletes in the school,” added Elias. “They’re very solid in back, which allows you to be successful up top.”

Filling in for injured All-County midfielder Julia Kopelman, junior reserve Allison Pierce has come off the bench to lead Calhoun with three assists, tacking on a goal to also lead the club with four points.

“Allison came kind of out of nowhere and is growing into that role of a bench superstar,” Elias said. “She’s fast, she’s a dynamic player, and she’s giving us everything she has.”

Forwards Ruth Small and Liana Serrano, and junior midfielder Sabrina Curcio lead Calhoun with two goals apiece, Curcio chipping in an assist to rank No. 2 on the team in points.

“Sabrina’s playing at a level that’s shocking people, even us,” Elias said. “Her mix of speed, skill and soccer IQ gives us something I didn’t think we’d have. It’s a big reason we’ve been able to dominate.”

Added Elias: “Last year’s group was exceptional, but we had difficulties and had to play in, probably, the best conference in the country. But now we’re back, building off the end of last season. We’ve been able to keep up the winning.”

Brian Ballweg/Herald

Ruth Small has been a large contributor at striker for the Colts, who bolted out of the gate with a 4-1-1 conference record.

Ryder Cup set to tee off at Bethpage Black

Governor Hochul announces that the course will host two PGA championships in next eight years

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

After years of preparation, the Ryder Cup is about to begin at Bethpage Black. And Long Island golf fans can anticipate even more championship golf coming to one of the country’s most popular public courses.

While visiting the Farmingdale course on Sept. 17, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that Bethpage Black will also host the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in 2028, and the PGA Championship in 2033.

“I don’t look at it just as an economic boost,” Hochul said. “I look at it as a point of pride.”

Hochul, who added that the PGA Championship will be played at Oak Hill Country Club, in Rochester, in 2035, said that she “could not be prouder,” that the state is a home to golf “and always will be.”

Bethpage Black hosted its first PGA Championship in 2019, when Brooks Koepka won his second PGA title. The last time the women’s championship was played in the state was at the Westchester Country Club in Harrison, in 2015; this is the first time it will be played at Bethpage Black.

“Bringing the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship to Bethpage Black is a significant milestone,” PGA of America President Don Rea said, adding that it reflects the PGA’s “commitment to staging this event at premier courses in major markets.”

PGA of America, based in Frisco, Texas, hosts the Ryder Cup and other major golf tournaments in the United States. This year’s biennial tournament, a matchup of the top golfers in the U.S. and Europe, is set for this weekend, beginning Friday.

A week before the first competitors teed off, Ryder

Cup Shops hosted a grand opening for the public, last Friday through Monday. Team U.S. fans can choose from over 1,500 items from more than 50 vendors at the 61,800-square-foot temporary pavilion, near Bethpage Black’s main spectator entrance. Tournament tickets are not required, and this week the shops will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Ryder Cup Shops has 70 registers and a large queuing area for customers, so fans can pick up merchan-

dise and get back to the competition quickly. There are 10 full-time staffers, 20 interns and 1,200 volunteers, according to Michael Quirk, the chief commercial officer of merchandising for Legends Global, the company overseeing tournament merchandise.

“We’ve been told the expected number (of fans) for the Ryder Cup is north of 50,000” per day, Quirk said. “When we talk about a structure this big, there’s a reason for it. This is a machine that is really built to make sure that the best premium retail experience is actually possible this week.”

Luke Feeney/Herald

At Bethpage Black on Sept. 17, Gov. Kathy Hochul — above with Derek Sprague, CEO of PGA of America — announced that the course will also host the 2028 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and the 2033 PGA Championship.

Women leaders unite for inspiration and change

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

The audience numbered 275 women for RichnerLIVE’s third annual Women’s Summit, an all-day event dedicated to leadership, empowerment and connection, filled the Crescent Beach Club in Bayville.

This year’s theme, Next Level You, set the tone for the Sept. 9 program, which combined wellness activities, thoughtprovoking discussions, and opportunities to build professional networks. The event featured vendor booths, multiple raffle prizes, and morning sessions of beach yoga, meditation breathwork before attendees moved into panels and keynote talks.

Amy Amato, executive director of RichnerLIVE, opened the keynote lunch session by reminding the audience that the summit is as much about conversation as it is about the speakers on stage. “One of the best parts of the Summit is that it’s not just what happens on stage — it’s about the conversation and connections happening all around us,” Amato said. She credited the event’s sponsors for making the gathering possible and emphasized the importance of support systems. “One of the best ways to reach the next level is by surrounding ourselves with strong, supportive peers. Networks like ours thrive because of women who lead with purpose.”

Among those support networks highlighted was the Women’s Executive Network of Long Island, which Amato described as a premier organization “designed to connect, mentor, and empower leaders like those in this room.”

Stuart Richner, co-publisher of The Long Island Herald and CEO of Richner Communications, echoed that message by tracing his company’s own history of uplifting women’s voices. He noted that the Herald, founded by his parents, Edith and Robert Richner, in 1964, was built on a commitment to community journalism and inclusivity. “In fact, our company was co-founded by an incredible woman in her own right, my mother, Edith,” he said. “And today, women proudly comprise over 60 percent of our leadership team at Richner.”

Richner told the audience that the company’s mission to “lift all voices” continued at the summit, where attendees were encouraged to connect, learn and advance in their own leadership journeys.

The keynote address was delivered by Jennifer Watson, a former Division I athlete, two-time All-American and TEDx speaker who overcame years of depression to become a physical therapist, entrepreneur, coach and healer. As founder of Watson Worldwide, she now works with leaders across industries to reframe resilience.

“Resilience has often been taught as sacrifice, as pushing through until you burn out,” Watson said. “But what if resilience was not about sacrificing? What if it was about expanding — expanding a brilliance that’s already in you?”

Watson shared her own struggles with burnout, describing how the traditional

mindset of “pushing harder” left her disconnected from her work and her team.

“The harder I pushed to be more resilient, the further I was getting away from what I was connected to — what I was giving to the world.”

She urged attendees to listen to their bodies, reframe setbacks as communication, and approach challenges with receptivity rather than force. “When we do, we go from our true maturity to start trusting ourselves, working from honesty, and being resilient from a healthy space.”

Elizabeth Saitta and Kim Cottage — cofounders of the Philanthropy Network of New York — are this year’s recipients for the PointVOIP Community Impact Award. Their work has created real and lasting impact in our community.

The summit also explored topics ranging from financial confidence to leadership mindsets and the future of work with artificial intelligence. Panelists and

speakers highlighted strategies for navigating personal growth, professional advancement and organizational change. Sponsors, including our beach bag sponsor and photo booth sponsor, CLA, made this year’s event possible; along with lanyard sponsor, People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union; and community impact award sponsor, PointVoIP. Additional supporters included The Stefans Group, Forvis Mazars, Mending Hearts Counseling, Verron Law Group, Valley Bank, Alluring Age Anti-Aging and Wellness Center, Automatic Industries Inc., Vibrance 360, NHG Law Group, P.C., Nassau Community College, Disruptive Spark Business Academy, Meister Seelig & Fein, PLLC, Prager Metis, Form and Function Aesthetics and Wellness, Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery, PSEG Long Island, Catherine Candaeo Health and Wellness Corp., and State and Signal. And of course, a special thank you to our cof-

fee sponsor – that keeps us going – Elegant King Brew, and our wine sponsor, Farm Wines!

For Amato, the day highlighted the collective strength in the room. “Everyone in this room contributes,” she said. “Together, we can push past limits and step into our full potential.”

To see a full list of speakers and photos visit: RichnerLive.com/wesummit

Tim Baker/Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Susan Gatti, Disruptive Spark Business Academy, lead a morning JumpStart session on the beach.

Elizabeth Saitta and Kim Cottage, Co-Founders of Philanthropy Network of NY, recieved the PointVoIP Community Impact Award.

Jennifer Watson delivered an inspiring and interactive keynote address.

JP Panetta, CEO, Point VoIP.

Jeannie Doherty-Benckwit and Jessica Dunbar from the Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation.

Veronica Isaac of PSEG Long Island.

From left to right are the Own Your Worth panelists: Carol A. Allen (moderator), Rochelle L. Verron, Tifphani White-King, Esq., Donna M. Stefans, Esq., AIF®, Denise Savino-Erichsen.

Morning soundbowl activity lead by Constance Korol, Meta180.

Next Level You panelists: Veronica Isaac, left, Maria Conzatti, Ed.D, Stacey Sikes, Dr. Stephanie Trentacoste McNally.

From left to right are the Mental Health: The Mind Games panelists: Elizabeth Saitta, Victoria Spagnolo, Esq., Jeffrey Reynolds, PhD, (moderator), Jamie Rosen, Esq., Anne Petraro.

Ashley Erichsen, Sarah Pushnic, Jackie Toich, Denise Savino-Erichsen, Marianna Mooney, Ellen Savino.

The Wellness: Longevity, Menopause, and Rewiring Your Brain panelists: Dr. Luis Fandos, left, Dr. Linda Harkavy, Dr. Helen Hsieh and Dr. Stephanie Trentacoste McNally.

Large crowds pack annual street festival

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

Sunshine and warm temperatures brought out thousands for this year’s Bellmore Family Street Festival, which filled the village streets from Sept. 19-21. The three-day celebration drew residents from the Bellmore-Merrick area and beyond, turning the Long Island Rail Road parking lots and nearby blocks into a bustling hub of rides, food, and music.

The weekend’s clear skies and 70-degree weather were a welcome change from 2024, when rain on Saturday and Sunday dampened turnout. Instead, families, couples, and friends crowded Pettit Avenue and Bedford Street, where vendors and food stands set up shop to mark the final weekend of summer.

Children enjoyed carnival and pony rides, while adults browsed kiosks offering clothing, jewelry, and other gifts. Local businesses and community groups also used the event to showcase their services, while visitors sampled a wide variety of food and drink — from snacks and sweets to hearty meals.

Live entertainment kept the energy high throughout the weekend. One of the standout performances came Saturday, when Elvis impersonator Greg Peters entertained festivalgoers with classic rock-and-roll hits at the intersection of Pettit and Bedford. With activities and attractions for all ages, organizers made sure there was something for everyone.

Proceeds from the festival support the Bellmore Chamber of Commerce’s programming year-round, including its annual holiday extravaganza in December. For details on upcoming events, visit BellmoreChamber.com

Holden Leeds/Herald Photos

The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores, in pink shirts, organized another successful street festival, making sure that everyone who attended had a great time.

The children had lots of fun on the amusement park rides.

Mia Grace Cataldo, 6, was a great big sister by going on the teacup ride with four-year-old brother Joseph.

The face painting booth was a popular option at the fair as Austyn Rada, 5, showed off her new Spider Man design with dad Jared.

Gizmo the Robot made plenty of children laugh during the festival, including Jack and Brook Gottlieb, from left, and Charlie Krut.

Snake mystery still slithering at local home

By STACY DRIKS sdriks@liherald.com

It’s been nearly two weeks since a ball python startled a Uniondale resident by slithering through their basement window on First Place — and the mystery snake — now safely curled up in a Merrick home — is still waiting to be claimed.

On Sept. 9, officers from the Nassau County Police Department’s First Precinct — which covers Uniondale, Baldwin, Merrick, Bellmore, South Hempstead and East Meadow — were called to the scene.

Unsure how to handle the snake, they contacted Seaford resident John DeBecker, a wildlife expert who normally captures stray cats.

“Officers guided the python into a garbage pail,” then contacted me as they didn’t know what to do with him afterwards,” DeBecker said in a message.

DeBecker reached out to Karenlynn Stracher, a Merrick-based wildlife rehabilitator who specializes in reptiles. The ball python has been in her care since that day.

However, the owner has not claimed it yet, leaving her counting the minutes before she finds an adoptive home.

“It is still in my care, and I am trying to look for a forever adoptive home. They’re not native snakes so it definitely was someone’s pet.”

Ball pythons are not native to the United States nor poisonous — unlike rattlesnakes and king cobras, pythons trap their prey by squeezing them. They’re native to West and Central Africa and were introduced to the U.S. through the pet trade.

Ball pythons are one of the most popular pet snakes in the world, known for their calm nature and manage-

able size.

Stracher, who has been housing the python temporarily, plans to check local shelters and social media groups for a potential owner. So far, no luck.

“I’m still holding it in case the owner surfaces, but if not, I’ll place it through several of my networks,” she said. “Since it is not native, we will call these exotic domestic pets — they’re exotic animals.”

Ball pythons are legal to own in New York without a special permit, if they’re acquired legally.

A four-foot ball python was found Sept. 9 in a Uniondale basement window. No one has claimed it, so a licensed wildlife rehabilitator is now caring for it in her Merrick home.

Courtesy John DeBecker

These exotic animals come with specific needs — heat, humidity, diet and a mimic of their natural habitat, including sticks for them to climb onto.

Under New York state law, intentionally releasing or failing to retrieve a domesticated exotic animal could qualify as animal abandonment — a violation under the Agriculture and Markets Law.

As for the Uniondale snake, it remains curled up safely in a habitat in Stracher’s Merrick home — for now.

Hempstead Town Board reappoints Ferretti

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

The Hempstead Town Board reconfirmed the appointment of Interim Supervisor John Ferretti at its Sept. 16 meeting, a move officials said was necessary to protect taxpayers from a lawsuit challenging Ferretti’s initial appointment last month.

Ferretti was initially appointed on Aug. 5, the day Supervisor Don Clavin resigned. Town officials said the reappointment was meant to shield taxpayers from what they called a “frivolous and politically motivated” lawsuit filed last month in Nassau County Supreme Court by Democratic supervisor candidate Joseph Scianablo.

The lawsuit claims Republican officials violated the state’s Public Officers Law, which requires 24 hours’ public notice for resolutions scheduled at meetings. Scianablo contends that the appointment was prearranged, pointing to Ferretti’s acknowledgment that both Clavin’s resignation and his appointment were planned days earlier.

The agenda for the Aug. 5 meeting did not list the resignation or appointment, but it did reallocate Clavin’s salary to cover Ferretti’s new role, according to Scianablo.

Brian Devine, the town’s director of communications, said Ferretti’s original appointment was “proper and lawful,” and described Scianablo’s lawsuit as “meritless.”

“By confirming the appointment of Supervisor Ferretti and reaffirming all resolutions from Aug. 5, the Town Board has rendered this cynical lawsuit moot and protected residents from unnecessary costs,” Devine stated in a news release.

State Supreme Court Justice Gary Carlton had scheduled a Sept. 18 hearing and approved subpoenas for Hempstead officials and records, but Steven A. Loquestro, an attorney representing town officials, filed to stay the proceeding on Sept. 16, arguing that Ferretti’s reappointment made the case moot.

Before the vote, Ferretti recused himself while the board discussed the resolution. Councilwoman Laura Ryder said the reappointment was not necessary, maintaining that the Aug. 5 meeting had followed the

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2025

8:00 A.M. TO 10:00 A.M.

The Heritage Club at Bethpage

law, but supported the reappointment to put an end to what she called a “frivolous lawsuit.”

“We will not let our residents suffer financially to perpetuate someone’s political agenda,” Ryder said. “That’s why I support taking this action openly and transparently, to make clear that our supervisor has been properly appointed.”

During the public comment period, several residents weighed in on the resolution. Some supported Ferretti, saying he had earned the position, while others argued that the appointment was improper and invalid.

Among the speakers was Scianablo, who called the Aug. 5 appointment a “backroom deal,” claiming the resolution to reappoint Ferretti was “an unmistakable admission” that the board had broken the law.

“The fact that we’re standing here today for a revote proves it,” Scianablo said. “Ferretti and every council member who voted for this sham appointment must be held accountable.”

Scianablo, of Garden City, is a Marine veteran and a former New York City police officer. The Nassau County Democratic Party says he brings leadership, integrity and compassion to the race.

Devine said that Ferretti, of Levittown, has been leading “with integrity and commitment” to Hempstead residents. Ferretti previously represented Levittown, Bethpage, North Massapequa, and parts of Farmingdale as a Nassau County legislator.

“The people of Hempstead deserve government that works for them — not baseless distractions or political games at their expense,” Devine said. “The board’s decisive action today ensures that we can continue to move forward without interference from frivolous litigation.”

Join Us!

For more than 100 years the American Red Cross on Long Island has helped the community prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

HONORING

COMMUNITY IMPACT HERO

Luv Michael

FIRST RESPONDER HEROES

Offcers Timothy Deegan and Matthew Walling

GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP HERO

Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize

DISASTER HERO

Jennifer Keane

MILITARY HERO

Mel Cohen

YOUTH HEROES

Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein

The American Red Cross Heroes Celebration is the signature fundraising event for the American Red Cross on Long Island, serving Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Event Co-chairs: James Quent, Greg Lavine, and Jennifer Solomon

For tickets, sponsorships, journal ads and to learn more, please visit redcross.org/LIheroes

Herald file photo/Courtesy Town of Hempstead

John Ferretti was appointed Interim Town Supervisor on Aug. 5, the day former Supervisor Don Clavin resigned.

Pols target worker exploitation in district

argue that project labor agreements raise costs, but John Cush of Ironworkers Local 361 disagreed.

“Prevailing wage laws exist on all public-school jobs already,” Cush said. “Unions set the prevailing wage. Unions get the job done faster.”

While project labor agreements establish wage and benefit protections, all speakers, including residents, elected officials, the union leaders at the Merrick event stressed the need for legislation to ensure workers are paid fairly and that money stays in the community.

“Our taxpayers are actually the victims of what is taking place in our schools; they think the PLA costs more money when, in fact, it actually saves them money,” Martinez said.

Speakers also underscored how contracting practices directly affect students. When school projects are awarded to outside firms, they said, young people miss out on apprenticeship and career-training opportunities that local unions regularly provide.

As the state Department of Labor governs union workers, these student programs need to balance apprentice intake with available work. Without the available work documented, “these kids coming out of school looking to do the trades, looking for a good job, earning college credits through their apprenticeship, are having zero opportunity,” said Michael White, a representative of the New York City District Council of Carpenters

White said he is searching for high school graduates seeking trade apprenticeships but finding limited opportunities locally. He believes some local contractors are failing to provide community jobs.

“It hurts Long Island,” White said. “It hurts the students.”

White pointed to a 2021 case at Levy Lakeside School in Merrick, where he said contractors falsified payroll

sheets and failed to meet fair wage standards. Payroll data showing two weeks of underpaid laborers while contractors were fully compensated was presented at the meeting.

“An entire Saturday for both weeks, both on July 21, 24 and 31, certified payrolls showing zero people,” White said.

But a third-party monitor hired by the school report-

ed as many as 30 workers on-site during those dates. White said there was no clear data identifying who those workers were or who employed them.

“How much did they get paid?” he said. “Nobody knows. That’s a $40,000 payday. That’s not counting benefits. So, we lost $40,000 in tax revenue that should have gone back to these schools.”

Cush added that a contractor was previously charged with underpaying more than $47,000 in wages at projects across several school districts, including Merrick.

The Merrick Union Free School District declined to answer specific questions about the accusations, only saying in a statement that it “complies with all applicable labor laws, including Wicks Law and prevailing wage requirements.”

Advocates pointed out that similar legislation passed last year has already proven effective at State University of New York campuses, where project labor agreements have helped reduce corruption and worker exploitation. They argued the same protections should extend to public elementary and secondary schools.

“We talk about education building New York’s middle class,” Martinez said. “And publicly funded school construction projects should strengthen, not undermine, middle-class workers.”

The officials urged Gov. Kathy Hochul to support the legislation and ensure it is included in next year’s executive budget.

According to Slaughter, protecting taxpayers, upholding fair wages and rooting out corruption in public schools must remain priorities.

“Our children deserve better, our workers deserve better, our taxpayers deserve better,” Martinez said.

Have an opinion on the Stop Worker Exploitation in Education Act? Send letters to bkacharaba@liherald. com.

MAX’S APPETIZING & MAJESTIC CATERING

YOM KIPPUR SUGGESTIONS

• whole smoked large whitefsh

• whole poached salmon

• whole smoked Nova Scotia or Scotch salmon

• brook trout

• belly lox

• kippered salmon

• lake trout

• baked salmon salad

• vegetable cream cheese

• greek salad

• chopped herring salad

• pickled herring

• whitefsh salad

• eggs-mushroom-onions salad

• homemade blintzes

• vegetable chopped liver

• cucumber salad

• matjes herring

• halibut salad

• farmer cheese, raisins, & nuts

• eggplant salad

• schmaltz herring

YOM KIPPUR PACKAGES

10 People $320

Choice of 2 Cream Cheeses, Tuna, Egg & Whitefsh Salad, Vegetable Chopped Liver, Pickled Herring in Cream Sauce, Nova Scotia, Sliced Tomatoes & Onions, 1 lb Rugelach

15 People $400 / 20 People $515

Choice of 3 cream cheeses, Tuna, Egg & Whitefsh Salad, Vegetable Chopped Liver, Salmon, Whitefsh, Nova Scotia, Pickled Herring in Cream Sauce, Sliced Tomatoes & Onions, 2 lbs Rugelach

Courtesy Jeff Rae

Josh Slaughter, a local political labor coordinator, claimed that contractors cut corners on both pay and oSHa safety standards,

Seniors in the Wellington C. Mepham High School Participation in Government classes will again take part in the Flag Field of Honor this fall.

News brief

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

Mepham seniors raise flags high

Seniors in Wellington C. Mepham High School’s Participation in Government classes will once again transform the campus lawn into a sea of stars and stripes this fall, as they set up the 11th annual Flag Field of Honor.

This year’s proceeds will support the Senior Service Learning Project’s partnership with Ronald McDonald Houses, which provide families of hospitalized children under 21 a place to stay near specialty hospitals, along with homecooked meals and a comforting community—all at no cost—so they can focus on their child’s recovery.

Since its inception in 2009, the Mepham Senior Service Learning Project has galvanized the school community to raise more than $815,000 for local and national charities—proof that small

acts, multiplied, make a lasting difference.

American flag sponsorships are $20 each or three for $50; U.S. military branch or POW/MIA flag sponsorships are $50 each. Every sponsorship will includes a keepsake 3x5 flag that will be available to those who request one next January.

Flags will fly from Nov. 2 to Dec. 8.

To honor a family member or friend, contact Kerry Dennis (kdennis@ bmchsd.org) or Chris Patten (cpatten@ bmchsd.org) at Mepham at 516-992-1500 to receive a form. Completed forms may be returned to the Mepham High School Flag Field of Honor, 2401 Camp Ave., Bellmore, NY 11710, by Oct. 24.

— Brian Kacharaba

Mepham swimmer earns All-American status

Wellington C. Mepham High School senior Calista Chen earned All-America honors in the 100-meter backstroke with a time of 55.46 seconds and was also named a scholastic All-American. She earned the distinction after being among the fastest 100 athletes with submitted and accepted times in each event. Chen, a former member of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s Lady Sharks swim team, plans to continue her academic and athletic career at the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

L et us K now

News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication. Send to execeditor@liherald.com

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

STEPPING OUT

Totally 80s Tribute To The Legends

American Chamber Ensemble at 60

A legacy of harmony

By Abbey Salvemini

The American Chamber Ensemble (ACE), Hofstra University’s esteemed ensemble-in-residence, reaches a musical milestone: its 60th anniversary. To commemorate six decades of musical excellence, ACE invites everyone to special anniversary concert.

The celebratory performance, upcoming on Oct. 12, at Hofstra’s Helene Fortunoff Theater, is sure to be vibrant musical occasion that exemplifies what the ensemble does so well.

ACE was founded in 1965 by two visionary young Long Island mothers — pianist Blanche Abram and clarinetist Naomi Drucker, a proud member of Hofstra University’s Class of 1957. Driven by a shared passion for music and a desire to continue performing while raising their families, then young mothers Abram and Drucker began presenting intimate concerts in local libraries and churches.

“Touring wasn’t an option for them,” explains current ACE director pianist Marilyn Lehman ’75, who is also on Hofstra’s music faculty. “ACE was the compromise that allowed them to share their artistry with audiences here on Long Island.”

What began as a grassroots effort quickly blossomed into something much greater. Over the decades, ACE evolved into a nationally acclaimed ensemble, with performances gracing prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the National Gallery of Art. Despite this widespread recognition, both founders remained deeply rooted in their community. Abram and Drucker often expressed that the ensemble’s growth and longevity were made possible by the unwavering support of their local audiences — a loyal and appreciative community they credited as the heart of ACE’s enduring success.

“American Chamber Ensemble has been bringing diverse programs to Hofstra University, combining strings, winds, piano and voice for decades,” Tammy Hensrud, coordinator of vocal studies and adjunct professor of voice at Hofstra, shares. Hensrud has been with ACE since its founding and will also be performing that day.

Throughout the decades, the ensemble has delivered exceptional chamber music, while nurturing Hofstra talent and promoting local composers.

“It feels fantastic that we can carry on with our work,” Lehman says. Lehman and Mindy Dragovich — ACE’s clarinetist and assistant director — both studied under Drucker and Abram, who were also their instructors during their time at Hofstra. Both women, who are also mothers, continue to carry on the legacy of their mentors, who balanced motherhood with their musical careers and inspired a new generation to do the same.

The audience can look forward to a diverse repertoire and perfomances at this concert — featuring dancers, a chorus and current students. ACE offers up a dynamic program, including Leonard Bernstein’s ‘Make Our Garden Grow,’ as well as works by Beethoven, André Messager, Steven Gerber and Schumann. A special highlight is an eight-hand piano piece from Faust, showcasing the ensemble’s collaborative spirit. The performance also includes dancer Jessica Levin, who has choreographed a work to accompany Gerber’s Cocktail Music for solo piano.

• Sunday, Oct. 12, 3 p.m.

• Helene Fortunoff Theater, Hofstra University’s Monroe Lecture Center, California Avenue, South Campus

• Admission is free; registration requested

• Visit events.hofstra.edu or call (516) 463-5669

Special guest artists include the Hofstra Chamber Choir directed by Dr. David Fryling; mezzo-soprano Hensrud, soprano Karen DiMartino ’07, baritone Andrew DiMartino, and violist Todd Lowe.

“I wanted to have a collaboration with the music department because they have supported us for all these years. So I brought back some of my students to perform,” Lehman adds.

Uniondale resident and Hofstra student violinist Jared Mercado earned the opportunity to play with the ensemble through a competitive audition. He joins Lehman on stage to perform a Beethoven sonata. It’s a fun and inspiring experience for everyone, especially for those students in the audience who see their classmates and music faculty perform together.

Neither ACE’s founders nor its current musicians have ever considered their Hofstra residency to be perfunctory.

“Having our home base at Hofstra means students aren’t just sitting in an audience at our concerts,” Lehman says. “They know us. They learn and perform with us, and we build meaningful relationships with them.”

She further emphasizes the value of having a dedicated cultural space within the community where local folks can experience classical chamber concerts.

“Our mission was to bring professional artists and traditional repertoire up close and in the neighborhood,” Lehman continues.

As the ensemble celebrates this milestone, its members also look ahead with renewed purpose. The group remains committed to its founding ideals: bringing world-class chamber music to the community, fostering the next generation of musicians and building meaningful connections through performance.

This 60th anniversary concert is not only a tribute to the past but also a joyful step into the future of an ensemble that continues to inspire, educate and unite through the power of music.

Prepare to crank up the volume and turn back the clock for a high-energy night of neon nostalgia at Totally 80s — a celebration of the decade that gave us big hair and bigger hits. Featuring powerhouse performances by Bon Journey NY, Rock of 80’s and All About Joel, this electrifying concert takes you through the greatest ‘80s hits, from arena rock to synth-pop and everything in between. Keeping the party going between sets, DJ Jeff Nec spins some tracks. In the spirit of honoring creative excellence, the evening also spotlights the recipient of the Ted Fass Music Scholarship, awarded to an incoming music student at Molloy University who exemplifies the legacy of Ted Fass — a pioneer and visionary in the entertainment industry, and cornerstone of the Rockville Centre community.

Saturday, Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $55. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444.

‘…We will rock you’ Get ready to sing along — Queenmania is back on Long Island. Almost Queen, the acclaimed tribute band, returns to the Paramount stage, bringing with them the soaring vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and theatrical flair that defined one of rock’s most legendary groups. Not just another cover band, their performances are carefully crafted to honor the spirit of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor while delivering a concert experience that feels fresh and alive.

The lineup features Joseph Russo as the dynamic and charismatic Mercury, Steve Leonard as guitar virtuoso May, Randy Gregg as bassist Deacon, and John Cappadona as drummer Taylor. Together, they recreate Queen’s iconic sound with impeccable four-part harmonies, precise musical interludes, and the kind of stage energy that pulls audiences to their feet.

Saturday, Oct. 4, 8 p.m.

$108.75, $98.25, $76.25, $64.75, $54.25, $48.75. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Photos courtesy Marilyn Lehman

Mindy Dragovich, left, Erika Sato, Chris Finckel, Marilyn Lehman, and Deborah Wong carry forward the legacy started by its founders.

The American Chamber Ensemble with Blanche Abram, left, current ACE director Marilyn Lehman and Naomi Drucker.

Photo courtesy Hofstra University

Marilyn Lehman at the piano.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberföte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

On stage

Adelphi University’s Department of Theater presents Samuel D. Hunter’s “The Harvest.” The a gripping, emotionally nuanced exploration of faith, family, and identity asks us to open our hearts and minds to the mystery of what it is to be human. Five young Christian evangelicals in a church basement in Idaho Falls are preparing themselves for a mission to the Middle East. One of them, Josh, is reeling after the death of his father, and has bought a one-way ticket with no plans to return. But when his estranged sister returns to Idaho Falls to stop him, the choice to leave becomes more complicated.

• Where: Adelphi University Black Box Theatre, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: 6:30 p.m.; through Sept. 28, times vary

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or call (516) 877-4000

Live After Five

The community event returns for the final time this year. Hosted by the Merrick Community Civic Association, enjoy discounts and promotions for local shopping, dining, drinking and wellness. With entertainment in the gazebo by up-and-coming performers.

• Where: Merrick Avenue, LIRR station to Loines Avenue

• Time: 5 p.m.

• Contact: Berta Weinstein at (516) 578-0649

Yes: ‘The Fragile 2025 Tour’

Get ready to experience an unforgettable evening of Yes at its best, on the Paramount stage, featuring its existential prog masterworks and instrumental pyrotechnics. A pioneer of progressive rock, Yes has achieved worldwide success through a prolifc and enduring music career spanning 45 years and 20 studio albums. With an ever growing fan base, Yes continues to electrify audiences with its daunting virtuosity, cosmic lyrics, complex musical textures and powerful lead vocals. The band — currently comprising Steve Howe on guitars and vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Jon Davison on vocals and acoustic guitar, Billy Sherwood on bass guitar and vocals, and Jay Schellen on drums — performs their iconic 1971 album “Fragile” in its entirety as part of this tour. Fans can look forward to hearing classic tracks such as “Roundabout,” “Long Distance Runaround,” and “Heart of the Sunrise,” alongside other gems from their extensive and celebrated catalog.

Movies, a celebration of choral music in flm, Schubert’s Mass in G as well as Handel’s Messiah and a variety of other musical performance opportunities throughout the coming year. Auditions are by appointment only and are held Mondays, continuing Oct. 2 and Oct. 6. Whether you’re a lifelong singer or just fnding your voice, you belong here! If you love to sing, consider auditioning to be part of this tradition of musical excellence. For additional information, visit lics.org.

• Where: Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City

• Contact: Interested parties can schedule an audition by calling (516) 652-6878 or via e-mail at audition.info@lics.org

OCT

Pro wrestling

4

Car

show

The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and the Town of Hempstead welcomes all to the Friday Night Car Show Weather permitting, attendees are sure to find a wide selection of automotives, whether it be vintage vehicles, vans and buses, or newer models, like sports cars. Spectators can enter free of charge. Admission fee for cars is $5.

• Where: Bellmore LIRR, across from King Kullen parking lot

• Time: 5 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 679-1875

Flea market

Bellmore Lions Club hosts a flea market at the Bellmore LIRR train station parking lot (B-2). Weather permitting.

• Where: Bellmore LIRR, across the street from the King Kullen supermarket.

• Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m

• Contact: (516) 783-1471

“What a Surprise!” at the Merrick Library. The show is a delightful compilation of five one-act plays. Each scene is filled with heart, humor, and unexpected twists that prove the old saying true. ‘You never know.’ Prepare to smile, and maybe even shed a tear.

• Where: 2279 S. Merrick Ave., Merrick

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: merricklibrary.org or (516) 377-6112

Baseball talk

Join acclaimed historian and author Kevin Baker at Merrick Library for a fascinating look at the deep connection between New York City and the game of baseball. Based on his latest book “The New York Game,” this talk explores the sport’s gritty origins, iconic moments, and legendary players as baseball and the city grew up together. From 19thcentury sandlots to the rise of powerhouse teams and unsung heroes, Baker brings to life the drama, controversy, and enduring spirit of America’s favorite pastime.

• Time: 8 p.m.

“Fragile” holds a special place in Yes’s discography, as it not only propelled the band to headline status in the U.S. but also distinguished itself with its unique blend of musical artistry. According to Steve Howe, the collaboration with co-producer Eddie Offord during this period helped the band reach new creative heights. This tour romises to merge the auditory and visual aspects that have always distinguished Yes as a band. The concert features a video wall displaying AI-generated interpretations of Roger Dean’s iconic album artwork, designed back in 1971. Tickets are $152.25, $129.75, $118.75, $108.75, $86.50.

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

• Where: 2279 Merrick Ave. Merrick

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: merricklibrary.org or (516) 377-6112

Roblox Night

Kids ages 7-12 can join Arrayscape Gaming at Bellmore Library for an evening of playing Roblox Tycoon and Obstacle Course. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and closely supervised by a responsible person (parent, caregiver, or mature adolescent age 14 years or older. Space is limited and registration required.

• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave., Bellmore

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: bellmorelibrary.org or (516) 785-2990

OCT

2

Long Island Choral Society Auditions

Audition now and be part of something bigger, a bold, inclusive future for choral music. The Long Island Choral Society is holding auditions for new members for their 96th Season. The 2025-26 season includes Let’s Go to the

Join in the second annual BASEBRAWL fundraiser sponsored by Create a Pro Wrestling and the Merrick Bellmore Little League at Brookside Educational Center in North Merrick. WWE Hall of Famers the Dudley Boys make their return to the ring, also Long Island’s own Matt Cardona and Brian Myers. Other Create-a-Pro wrestlers also compete. Card subject to change.

• Where: 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 992-1011

2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Support the Alzheimer’s Association their annual walk, the largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research, in 600 communities nationwide, including Eisenhower Park.

• Where: Eisenhower Park Parking Lot 6/6A

• Time: 9 a.m. check-in; 10 a.m. ceremony

• Contact: alz.org/longisland

Having an event?

Items on the Calendar 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 kbloom@ liherald.com.

Cheerleader pays it forward after tragedy

to the cancer my mom had, which it deserves.”

T-shirts and hoodies were created to show support and are being sold both before and during the game. Clinic participants will also receive the apparel and wear it during their halftime performance, highlighting both cancer foundations with Kennedy’s pink and green colors.

Each October, Kennedy cheerleaders host their annual clinic, which usually falls on the same night as the school’s Breast Cancer Awareness game. Over time, it became known as the ‘Pink Clinic’ because of the overlap. This year, though, the event carries added meaning as the team also honors the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.

The varsity and junior varsity cheer teams will teach those participating in the children’s clinic, a routine that will later be showcased during the halftime show at the game for the crowd and parents.

The clinic and game will also incorporate a board that will have both pink and green ribbons available. People will have the opportunity to donate a dollar and write a message on the ribbons.

Linda Pusateri, Kennedy’s varsity cheerleading coach, helped to involve all the sports teams that represent the school during football games.

“They didn’t even hesitate,” she said.

“They were like, ‘Absolutely, [we] love it.”

Additionally, a 50-50 raffle will be held at the football game, with all of the proceeds going to the foundation, along with the money from the shirts, ribbon board, and clinic. Local businesses are chipping in for the raffle or just donating to aid in funding research for such a rare cancer.

“We’re trying to just get as much community support as possible,” said Yana

Kondak, a mother of one of Mikhail’s teammates, who is very involved in the fundraiser.

Chloe Mikhail wants to support others struggling with the same disease, and she took the initiative in doing that when proposing this fundraiser.

That support has extended from the sidelines, where her coach has watched Chloe’s leadership and resilience with pride. Emphasizing the pride in Mikhail’s initiative dedicated to care and remembrance.

“I hope people see how strong this kid is and that she’s trying to make some suggestions, trying to help someone else, even with what’s happened,” Pusateri said. “I’m proud of the way she’s been promoting it and talking about it.”

As the school prepares for the event, parents, faculty, and students see Mikhail’s strength as a source of inspiration for the entire community.

“I give her all the credit in the world for what she’s been doing; it’s very impressive,” Pusateri said.

So far, the team raised roughly $800 in donations, not including clinic registration fees. All proceeds will benefit the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and breast cancer awareness efforts, and donations will be matched by Johnson & Johnson.

Those wishing to contribute can do so at: Give.Cholangiocarcinoma.org/fundraiser/6649980.

october has been recognized as Breast Cancer awareness month since 1985, dedicated to increasing understanding of the disease and supporting research, prevention, and early detection efforts. the pink ribbon has become a universal symbol of the campaign, representing solidarity with survivors and those battling breast cancer.

across the country, organizations and communities use the month to promote screenings, share resources, and raise funds for continued research. according to the american Cancer Society, breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, making awareness and early detection critical in improving outcomes.

Courtesy of Chloe Mikhail erica mikhail was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in January 2024 and passed away that november.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF YURT SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. SOPHIA AKSOY, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confrming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 12, 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 October 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 319 Frankel Boulevard, Merrick, NY 11566. 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 63, Block 125 and Lots 10-12. Approximate amount of judgment is $266,677.21 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index #616143/2018.

Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 201125-1 155532

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE TIKI SERIES III TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. VLADISLAV BONDARSKY, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confrming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 5, 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 October 9, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 2621 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected,

situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 63, Block 135 and Lot 881.

Approximate amount of judgment is $949,219.50 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index #004169/2009.

Jerry A. Merola, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 191890-2 155530

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, AGAINST DELORES ANNE CARUCCI-LAMPITELLI, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF DOLORES MARIA CARUCCI AKA DOLORES CARUCCI, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on February 4, 2020. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 9, 2025 at 2:30 PM premises known as 1429 Little Whaleneck Rd, North Merrick, AKA Merrick, NY 11566. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick (unincorporated area) Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 56, Block 22 and Lot 51. Approximate amount of judgment $452,331.62 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment. Index #001685/2017.

Janine T. Lynam, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY

11747 155673

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Offcers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 10/01/2025 at 9:30

A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30

A.M.

520/25. MERRICKJane Matzelle, Variances, lot area occupied, front yard setback on Madison St., construct one-story addition attached to dwelling (remove onestory portion of dwelling & steps)., N/E cor. Stuyvesant Ave. & Madison St., a/k/a 144 Stuyvesant Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in Merrick 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.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 155932

MERRICK U.F.S.D.

NORTH BELLMORE

U.F.S.D.

NORTH MERRICK

U.F.S.D.

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU

NOTICE TO BIDDERS:

In accordance with provision of Section 103 of the General Municipal Law, the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Transportation Consortium hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for:

Bellmore-Merrick Cooperative 2025-2026 School Year Bid

Bids will be publicly opened and read at the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Business Offce, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York, on Monday, October 8, 2025, at 10:00 am. Specifcations and Bid Forms may be obtained from the offce of Tom Volpe, Director of Transportation, between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any informalities in or to reject in whole or in part all bids or to accept any bid which in its judgment is in the best interest of the school district.

By order: Board of Education

BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

BELLMORE U.F.S.D.

MERRICK U.F.S.D.

NORTH BELLMORE

U.F.S.D.

NORTH MERRICK

U.F.S.D. 155945

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 58-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 16th day of September, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 58-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 58-2025, to amend Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include

News brief

Principal has interim tag removed

The Harold D. Fayette School has officially welcomed Dr. Christine Talbot as its new principal, the North Merrick School District announced.

Talbot, who served as interim principal at Fayette during the 2024-25 school year, was appointed to the permanent role as the school community prepared for the start of fall classes. She previously stepped in as interim principal at Old Mill Road School in 2021 before being named the district’s supervisor of instructional technology, library media and data.

In that role, Talbot oversaw computer science education for students across the district and organized community programs such as Family Literacy Month and the Community Read Along. Her leadership in technology and education has earned recognition, including the Nassau NASTAR Award in 2022 and the ASSET Bright Light Award in 2024.

“A school is the heart of its community, and I am honored to join this one,” Talbot said. “Together, we will nurture curiosity and empower our students to shine.”

Talbot’s career at Fayette began as a sixth-grade student teacher and eventually became a full-time member of the school’s faculty.

A frequent presenter at regional and national education conferences, Talbot

has shared her expertise at gatherings such as the Long Island Technology & Education Summit. She received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and psychology, and a master’s degree in math, science and technology in elementary education from Hofstra University. She earned a doctorate in education for leadership, innovation and continuous improvement in 2024.

— Brian Kacharaba

Public Notices

“ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations.

Dated: September 16, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 155926

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 57-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 16th day of September, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of

Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 57-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 57-2025, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: September 16, 2025

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Supervisor Town Clerk 155874

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Alys Balbes; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 5, 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 October 28, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 2599 Orr Street, Merrick, NY 11566-4745. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New

York, Section 63 Block 135 Lot 861. Approximate amount of judgment $588,637.31 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index# 014715/2013. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Irene Villacci, 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: September 8, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 155916

Courtesy North Merrick Public Schools

Dr. Christine Talbot is officially the principal of Harold D. Fayette School for the 2025-26 school year.

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A better-heated kitchen, please

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Q. Our kitchen is being redone, and we’re expanding into our breakfast area. We’re trying to figure out which kind of heat to put in, since our radiators will have to go to make way for the cabinets. Parts of the kitchen were always cold, and we don’t want to repeat that if we can find a better way. Our contractor said he can put in “toe space” heaters that blow warm air. Our plumber said we could do that, but they can be noisy after the break-in period. He also suggested installing either electric heat mats or water piping in-floor heating, but it could cost a lot. What’s your experience, and what do you recommend we do?

A. Keeping kitchens warm is more complicated than other spaces in your home. Of course, you could always just go stand in the corner, because most corners are 90 degrees! The most important factor in heating a kitchen is making certain kitchen walls and ceilings are well insulated, so that whatever system you choose will be the most effective for staying warm.

Old radiators were oversized as a rule of thumb, because, relatively speaking, energy sources were lower costing. Between larger radiators and smaller rooms, older home occupants were satisfied to walk around in sweaters to compensate. Today we want open spaces, removing the walls in the way to achieve a more spacious look.

Many people fear the cost and effort of a radiant floor, but radiating floors are my first choice, and the best solution. Yes, the initial investment is more, but not so much more that it’s cost-prohibitive. When you consider the time period to pay back the system, based on energy savings, it makes sense.

The other solutions are still concentrated places around the kitchen, and radiant heat is uniform to the room. Toe-kick heaters have a horizontal “squirrel cage” fan that rotates like a gerbil’s wheel, and eventually needs lubricating or replacement, unless you don’t mind the whirring sound.

Radiant heat, whether you choose a piping system or the electric matt type, distributes heat silently, and so comfortably that you can walk barefoot on the floor. People have even told me they lie on the floor and warm their sore back like a heating pad. The best part is that it’s the second most efficient type of heat distribution, after radiators (because they warm up the floor structure — even wood flooring — and retain and give off heat slowly after the boiler pauses). Together with a great insulation enclosure in the floor, below the heat, walls and ceiling, the radiant system works best.

Incidentally, the energy codes are moving to a higher performance standard as of January 2026, officials have informed me. There will be stricter adherence to proof, with calculations, of heating and cooling efficiency. Gone are the days of oversizing heating and air-conditioning or, for that matter, paying for more than you need and wasting energy. Good luck!

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In Congress, I’m fighting for Nassau County’s students

As we begin another exciting school year for so many young students across Nassau County, I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Feed Hungry Kids Act in Congress. Earlier this month, I joined educators in Valley Stream to announce this common-sense, bipartisan legislation. As a mother, the thought of any child going hungry in school is devastating to me. Students can’t reach their full academic potential on an empty stomach. Every one of America’s children deserves a good education that sets them up for a successful life, regardless of their background or ZIP code.

We saw during the pandemic that many families struggled to put food on the table. As families struggle with the costs of health care and housing, many times, one of the first things to go is food. In Nassau County, over 15,000 households currently count on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, and other food assis-

Itance to put food on the table. Unfortunately, free and nutritious food still remains out of reach for too many across our country.

dents at no charge. The way it works is simple: If a certain percentage of kids in the school qualify, everyone gets access to meals at no cost.

dents right here in this school district and across the country.

pIncreasing access to no-cost breakfast and lunch has been shown to boost students’ learning, increase test scores and improve attendance and classroom behavior.

rotecting healthy, no-cost school meals is especially important now.

Until recently, however, Valley Stream and other districts like it were not able to provide every student with free breakfast and lunch, no matter what. Two years ago, Valley Stream directly benefited from expanded access to an important federal program called the Community Eligibility Provision.

That’s why I’m introducing the Feed Hungry Kids Act with my Republican colleague, Rep. David Valadao, of California. This bill would protect that federal program, which has helped Valley Stream and more than 17,000 other schools across the United States ensure that they can provide meals at no cost to all of their students.

The Community Eligibility Provision allows underserved schools to offer breakfast and lunch to all stu-

This is so important for so many reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that our kids are fed during the day. Second, and equally important, CEP reduces the paperwork burden facing families and school districts, making sure that kids don’t fall through the cracks and helping our schools focus on what’s really important — educating our kids.

Originally, the threshold was 40 percent, but in the fall of 2023, the federal government lowered the participation threshold for CEP to 25 percent — meaning that if a quarter of kids in the district qualify for free school meals, every kid can benefit.

By reducing the threshold to 25 percent, an additional 17,000 schools across the country, including in the Valley Stream district, became eligible for this essential program.

That’s why I am proud to take the lead on this act, which would codify the 2023 policy expanding access to free school meals into law, ensuring that CEP meals remain available for stu-

Now, earlier this year, some in Congress shopped around the idea of not only returning the threshold for free meals to 40 percent, but raising it even further. In fact, one potential proposal would increase it to 60 percent, literally taking food away from students and schools. That would be devastating to America’s children.

Making sure our students have food in their stomachs should undoubtedly be a bipartisan issue. With this bipartisan legislation, CEP schools won’t have to worry about remaining eligible for the program and being able to keep kids fed.

Protecting healthy, no-cost meals for our nation’s students is especially important now, as we see food assistance programs nationwide, including several that keep Long Island’s children and seniors fed, being threatened by the cruel GOP tax bill passed earlier this summer along party lines.

I’m proud to fight for Nassau County in Congress, and proud to lead this bipartisan bill, to push back against any proposed cuts to food assistance that would hurt our children and our community.

Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

Is our democracy suffering growing pains?

n recent months, and perhaps for the first time in our adult lives, many of us have been worrying about the viability and survivability of the great American experiment known as democracy. It has been the only government we have known, and we assumed, perhaps naively, that freedom would ring forever across our land.

I did. I remember my young self, hand across my heart at an elementary school assembly, looking at the flag and reciting the pledge. It was such serious business. My devotion was uncomplicated. I grew up knowing I was lucky to have been born in my time and place.

My dad schooled us early and often on the opportunity America offered his immigrant parents, who fled pogroms and antisemitism in Eastern Europe. I never traveled overseas without coming back through customs and immigration thinking, “God bless America.” I never visited another country that beckoned me for more than a week or two. I think of myself as a

patriot.

When I was a college student and we philosophized about democracy, there seemed only a few and very sensible boundaries. Like don’t yell “Fire!” in a crowded theater. Otherwise, free speech felt like a particularly American right. As kids we chanted, “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but names can never harm me.”

W e thought of ourselves as a fairly egalitarian society in the pre-MAGA era.

Now, increasing restrictions on speech are disorienting. Our democracy feels destabilized. How do we speak up and support the least powerful and most in need of American justice without fear of reprisals? How have words — just words, compilations of simple letters — become “triggers” or a forbidden form of expression? Why take a word like d-iv-e-r-s-i-t-y and scrub it from policy language as if it were an epithet? It means, “The practice of including people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds” — a quintessentially American concept we historically have embraced.

These days, I don’t recognize us. America on its best day is far from perfect. As an educated adult, I know this. Any country that sanctioned slavery and the internment of citizens car-

ries that brand forever. But we also preserved freedom in World Wars I and II, beat back dictators and welcomed millions of immigrants who helped build the greatest country in the world. We educated the best scientists and led the world in developing vaccines for the most dreaded diseases.

The good, the bad — all of it is true, and the fabric of our nation today is richly threaded with our triumphs. We are all the stronger because we have survived dark times, like the Civil War, and built a society that has been a beacon for freedom around the world.

Within the generous embrace of America’s democratic government there have always been imperfections. Some argue that hard work pays off; others say that not everyone has equal access to either higher education or good jobs. Corruption sometimes tilts the playing field.

I don’t know how to resist the current threats to democracy, except to write and talk about them, to vote and encourage others to vote, to support fair elections. I do know we have to pay attention. Continuing to educate ourselves and encouraging open political discussions among others can only be a good

thing.

We Americans thought of ourselves as a fairly egalitarian society in the preMAGA, pre-billionaire era. There was a real thriving middle class when I was growing up, attainable through higher education or apprenticeship and hard work. Nothing seemed out of reach. The deal was that people in business or professions or trades could buy homes for growing families.

Today that deal is broken. Homes are out of reach for many young couples. Food prices are eating up family budgets. Now, only 250 years after the Declaration of Independence, we observe increasing class distinction in many elements of our culture.

Can we grow through this?

Can we agree that anyone who wants an education can still get it, and that people starting out can find affordable housing? All of it can be true and workable, but we can’t call ourselves a democracy when free speech and economic opportunity are threatened. A democracy embraces all its citizens, and in the best of worlds, welcomes newcomers.

In my lifetime, our imperfect democracy had room for everyone and was moving, in starts and stops, toward inclusivity. Now it seems stalled.

Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

LAURA A. GILLEn RAnDI KREIss

HERALD

Next month, adopt a loving four-legged friend

oHERALD

ctober is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, a time to bring attention to the countless animals in need of loving homes. On Long Island we’re fortunate to have strong networks of shelters working to give dogs, cats and other animals a second chance at life. Yet despite their tireless efforts, too many pets remain behind kennel doors, waiting.

The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter and Town of Babylon Animal Shelter are major lifelines for rescue pets. There are smaller but equally dedicated operations in Long Beach and on the North Shore.

Animal shelters — such as those in our towns — are typically run by municipalities, and house stray, abandoned or surrendered pets. They are often required to take in all animals brought to them. Shelters may have paid employees, but also rely on volunteer support. Animal rescues, on the other hand, are usually nonprofit and volunteer-run. Rescues can be more selective about the animals they accept. Together, shelters and rescues form a network of care that helps countless animals find safe, loving homes.

The message next month is clear: adopt, don’t shop. And even better, adopt from your local shelter.

When people turn to breeders — or worse, puppy mills — for their next pet, they overlook the many dogs already in need of homes. These are animals with plenty of love to give, that simply need someone to open their heart and their home. Shelter pets may not always be purebred, and some may come with personality quirks, but they often make the most loyal companions. Their gratitude is evident in every wagging tail and every snuggle.

Some people worry that adopting from a shelter is expensive. In fact, it’s often the opposite. The cost of adopting a dog can be less than $100, and cats are typically under $70. Many shelters also offer

letters

Find your local shelter

Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter

3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh Phone: (516) 785-5220

Website: HempsteadNY.gov/179/ Animal-Shelter

Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter

150 Miller Place, Syosset

Phone: (516) 677-5784

Website: OysterBayTown.com/ AnimalShelter

Town of Babylon Animal Shelter

80 New Highway, Amityville Phone: (631) 643-9270

Website: TownOfBabylonNY. gov/132/AnimalShelter

Long Beach Animal Shelter (Operated by Posh Pets Rescue)

770 Park Place, Long Beach Phone: (516) 431-7674

Website: PoshPetsRescueNY.org

special promotions for veterans, seniors and first responders, bringing those prices down even further. When you consider what’s often included — spaying or neutering, vaccinations and microchipping — adoption is not only the compassionate choice, but also the practical one. Of course, not everyone is in a position to adopt. That doesn’t mean you can’t help. Shelters and rescues rely heavily on community support. Volunteers are always needed to walk dogs, play with cats, or simply give animals

Support the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center

To the Editor:

In this critical moment for the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County, we invite the community to join us in our Flash Membership Drive as we celebrate our 31st anniversary.

For more than three decades, the center has educated over half a million people about the lessons of the Holocaust and the importance of tolerance. Today, that mission is more urgent than ever. With rising antisemitism and hate crimes, your support is vital in helping us spread awareness, strengthen understanding and foster compassion.

the human interaction they crave. Fostering is another option, offering an animal a temporary home while the shelter supplements the costs of its care. Foster homes are especially critical for pets that don’t thrive in a kennel environment or who need extra attention before they’re ready for adoption. Fostering a pet doesn’t just save that one animal. It also opens up space for a shelter to take in another one in need.

Then there are the basic supplies that shelters are always in need of: food, blankets, toys. Monetary donations go a long way in offsetting these facilities’ medical bills for sick or injured animals. Even the smallest contribution can make a big difference.

Adopting a dog can change its life forever, and will likely improve yours. Studies cited by the American Heart Association have found that dog ownership is linked to a lower risk of death from all causes, offering benefits to both heart health and overall well-being.

While October focuses on shelter dogs, it’s worth remembering that they aren’t the only ones waiting. Cats — from kittens to seniors — make up a large portion of shelter populations. If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, keep an open mind about who that might be.

Next month is a call to action. For anyone thinking about a new pet, consider visiting a local shelter before contacting a breeder. For those who can’t adopt, find a shelter to volunteer with, foster for or donate to. Every effort helps lighten shelters’ load and brighten the future of the animals they care for.

“Saving one dog won’t change the world,” Karen Davison, an animal advocate, rescue supporter and author, likes to say, “but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever.” Next month, let’s make that change happen — one adoption, one act of kindness and one wagging tail at a time.

Back-to-school eye exam can set your child up for success

protecting a child’s vision is a crucial part of their overall health and development. Just like regular checkups for their teeth and ears, early eye screenings are essential. Many common vision problems in kids can go completely unnoticed, because a child might not even realize that their vision is blurry or that something is wrong. Catching and treating these issues early is the key to preventing longterm problems that could affect their learning, behavior and social life.

The warning signs of vision problems that parents shouldn’t ignore include squinting at objects; holding books or devices too close; eye misalignment — one or both eyes turning inward or outward, particularly when tired; head tilting; avoidance of near tasks — a reluctance to read, draw or do homework; excessive tearing or light sensitivity, which may signal allergies or inflammation; and difficulty in school — struggling with reading, skipping lines or losing track while studying.

Even one of these signs can indicate that urgent treatment is necessary.

A closer look at nearsightedness in kids. Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is one of the most common eye conditions in children. It’s when a child can see things up close just fine, but things far away appear blurry.

safer than regular glasses. These should be considered essential equipment, just like helmets or mouth guards.

CIf your child’s vision is worsening quickly, there are treatments that can help slow it down. Low-dose atropine eye drops have been shown to be effective in slowing the progression of nearsightedness. And certain types of contact lenses are designed to help slow the worsening of a child’s vision. These treatments can make a big difference in a child’s eye health as they grow.

lear vision is about more than just seeing the board at school.

Contact lenses for kids. For active children, especially those involved in sports, contact lenses can be a game-changer. They eliminate the risk of broken glasses on the playground or field, and can give kids more confidence. That said, not every child is ready for the responsibility. Children must be mature enough to remove contacts before sleeping, and to clean and store them properly every day.

Eye safety in sports. Sports are one of the leading causes of eye injuries in children. To help reduce risks, experts recommend polycarbonate sports glasses, which are impact-resistant and far

Letters

Membership offers more than a year of free access to our permanent and special exhibits — it is a commitment to education and action. Every membership directly supports programs that reach over 30,000 Long Island students annually, as well as training for law enforcement, educators and nurses. These efforts empower our community leaders to make a positive difference in confronting prejudice and promoting inclusivity.

Members can also participate in group tours and classes that bring history to life and deepen the conversation about tolerance. Together we can be a beacon of hope, ensuring that the lessons of the past guide us toward a more compassionate future. Join us today and stand with the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County.

Dr. BErNIE FUrSHPAN

less murder of Charlie Kirk. When did we, as a nation, decide that political disagreement should be met with fists, bullets and blood instead of words? Debate used to be the cornerstone of democracy. Now too often it feels like dissent is treated as a death sentence.

In the late 1980s, I traveled to London, and stumbled on Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park. Anyone could climb onto a soapbox and speak their mind — on politics, faith or even hatred itself. Crowds heckled, argued and mocked, but they did not silence or assault the speaker. The unarmed Bobbies stood by only to keep the peace. It was a living model of what free expression should look like: passionate, messy, even uncomfortable — but never violent.

Protecting young eyes from the sun. Parents are well aware of the importance of sunscreen, but many forget that UV rays can damage children’s eyes, too. In fact, most lifetime UV exposure happens during childhood. Wearing 100 percent UVprotection sunglasses when outdoors — especially near water, sand or snow, which reflect UV rays — can prevent damage that may later lead to cataracts or macular degeneration. Making sunglasses a daily habit helps ensure healthier eyes for life.

The dangers of eye rubbing. You may not realize it, but frequent eye rubbing can be a big problem. For kids with allergies, constant rubbing can actually damage the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.

This can lead to a condition called keratoconus, in which the cornea becomes so thin that it bulges forward into a cone shape. This causes blurry vision that can’t be fixed with regular glasses or contacts.

What can we do about it? The good news is that if keratoconus is caught early, there are treatments. A procedure

called corneal collagen cross-linking can help stop the condition from getting worse. Also, using allergy eye drops or oral medication can reduce the itchiness and the urge to rub, protecting the eyes from further damage.

A clear message for parents. Protecting a child’s vision is one of the greatest gifts parents can give. The bottom line is straightforward:

■ Screen early — ideally by age 3 to 5.

■ Watch for warning signs like squinting, head tilting or school difficulties.

■ Protect young eyes from injuries and UV damage.

■ Seek treatment early for conditions such as myopia or keratoconus.

An eye exam for your child is quick and painless, but it can make a difference that lasts a lifetime. Don’t wait for your child to complain about their vision — catching problems early is key. Add an eye exam to the list of things to do early in the school year. Clear vision is about more than just seeing the board at school; it’s about giving every child the best chance at success, safety and healthy eyes for life.

Dr. Carolyn Shih is an assistant professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, and works at South Shore Eye Care, a member of the Northwell Health Eye Institute.

Cove

Board vice chair, marketing director, HMTC Glen

None of us deserves harm for our beliefs

To the Editor:

I write today outraged at the sense-

Charlie Kirk was a lightning rod, and at times I disagreed with his ideas — sometimes very strongly — but other times I agreed with him. That’s how democracy works: We weigh arguments, we challenge one another, we debate. But disagreement is not justification for violence. When I thought he was wrong, I wished for dialogue and enlightenment, not harm.

Instead, we are letting ourselves be manipulated by sensationalist media, rage-driven podcasts and toxic social media that thrive on division. Too many Americans now view someone who holds a different opinion not as a neighbor but as an enemy. That is poisonous — and deadly. None of us deserves harm for our beliefs. If America is to endure as a free

society, we must relearn how to argue fiercely without killing one another. Violence cannot be the answer. Debate must be.

Framework by Tim Baker

The Cowboy Biker Band, carved out of wood, at the Cradle of Aviation Museum — Garden City

CaroLYn sHiH

BrUCE KENNEDY Glen Cove

Reviving Hope: A Breakth rough Approach to Treating Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

"Several years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer and underwent chemotherapy treatments. I'm now in remission and blessed to still be here, but I was in so much pain. My feet and hands were constantly burning - a tingling sensation, almost like when your leg or arm falls asleep," shared Mary of Westbury.

Mary was suffering from Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy or CIPN. While chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells, they are not exactly discriminating in what they destroy. The smaller nerves, specifically those in your hands and feet, are some of the first to be harmed. Those suffering from peripheral neuropathy have described this pain as “burning,” “tingling,” “like walking on sharp rocks,” or like Mary explained, that fuzzy, tingling pain you experience during paresthesia (the technical term for when a limb “falls asleep”).

"Standing all day was not just a challenge, it caused me physical agony. Keeping up with my busy schedule - forget about it. I couldn't even go for walks on the beach." Mary, like so many others, was prescribed Gabapentin to help with the pain and told there was nothing anyone could do. In their words: “There is no treatment for neuropathy.”

Fortunately for Mary, where Western medicine fails, Westbury Acupuncture tends to prove itself. Jae Won, National Board-Certified Acupuncturist, has been blending the timetested science of acupuncture with modern, medical technology to design a real solution for peripheral neuropathy that doesn’t involve invasive surgeries or prescription medications with uncomfortable side effects.

specific to Westbury Acupuncture and its network of certified providers, actually treat neuropathy versus attempting to mask its symptoms.

"Acupuncture is incredible at restoring blood flow and stimulating damaged nerves. It’s been used for centuries to treat peripheral neuropathy and similar conditions” tells Jae Won. “We take our treatments a step further by integrating ATP Resonance BioTherapy , which targets specific nerves in the body using microcurrent. ATP Resonance BioTherapy is akin to watering a plant. This treatment stimulates the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients and energy they need to repair and recover.”

ATP Resonance BioTherapy was originally designed by NASA to speed up healing and recovery. “To have access to this kind of technology has been life changing for our

the incredibly compassionate Patient Care Technicians at Westbury Acupuncture. “We even have people asking if they can take the equipment home, so we’re working on developing some at-home options for our less mobile patients.”

After only four weeks of treatment, Mary is already seeing incredible improvement.

"I've taken the handicap placard off my rearview mirror and I'm finally back to walking on the beach. I can't wait to see how I feel at the end of my program! I used to think that the neuropathy pain was just the price I have to pay for still being alive. Jae Won has really given me hope for a better life!"

Jae Won L.Ac and the staff at Westbury Acupuncture have a 90% success rate in reversing peripheral neuropathy, and not just that caused by chemotherapy. They also have tremendous success in treating diabetic neuropathy and neuropathy of undetermined origin, otherwise known as idiopathic neuropathy.

suffer with neuropathy during her final years and it broke my heart when she was told there was nothing they could do. This condition is one of the main reasons I went into medicine. Since then, I’ve been on a quest to help people truly thrive in their golden years.”

The number of treatments needed to allow the nerves to fully recover will vary from person to person and can only be determined after a comprehensive consultation and detailed neurological evaluation.

If you or someone you love is suffering from peripheral neuropathy, call (516) 500-8281 to schedule.

For new patients, an initial consultation is complimentary. Simply visit www.WestburyAcupuncture.com for more information and to take advantage of this offer.