The Love Your Neighbor Project hosted its annual All You Need is Love Prom fundraiser on March 8. This year’s theme was the music of the 1990s, and the featured performers included Kingfisher, above. Story, more photos, Page 10.
By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com
For 75 years, the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club has provided a second home for children in Locust Valley and the surrounding communities. From its early days as a boys’ club focused on athletics to its evolution into a full-service youth development organization, the organization has been a cornerstone of community life. To celebrate its milestone anniversary, club officials reflected on its past while looking forward to a future of continued service.
Nassau County Court Judge Colin O’Donnell, chairman of the club’s board, has been involved
with Grenville Baker since 1969, when he joined as a young boy. For O’Donnell, the child of Scottish immigrants who was named Grenville Baker’s 1979 Youth of the Year, the club became an essential part of his American experience.
“I was assimilated to American culture because of the boys’ club,” he recalled. “I learned all the sports there. The club became my first employer as a (counselor in training) and then a camp counselor. Even during college, I was full-time summer staff.”
O’Donnell’s involvement with the club continued into adulthood. After earning a partial scholarship through the club and attending law
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Susan Soltis, a former North Shore High School English teacher for more than three decades, has died after a brief illness. She was 68.
Soltis taught in the district for 31 years, from 1990 to 2021. She taught several classes in the North Shore High School English Department, including Advanced Placement Language and Composition, IB Language and Literature, and ninthgrade honors and Regents English.
North Shore High Principal Eric Contreras, who met Soltis during his first year in the district, described her as an institution of knowledge. “Teaching is the hardest, most exhausting, and also the most rewarding and beautiful thing that someone can do as a professional,” Contreras said. “She captured all that.” Contreras said that Soltis had high expectations, and demanded excellence from her students and herself. He
described her as a brilliant writer and a formidable reader.
“I learned so much from her in one year,” he wrote in a message to school staff. “And think how much her students and colleagues learned from her over the many years. Her intellect, kindness, fortitude, and erudition were infectious and made all of us better people and educators.”
Soltis earned her undergraduate degree from Middlebury College in Vermont, graduating cum laude with honors in American literature. She earned a Master’s in teaching from Columbia University. Before teaching, she was a freelance author, specializing in computer-related topics.
Soltis — known as the “Grande Dame” in the English department — advised the National Honor Society; the Gender Equity Club; “Mosaic,” the school’s literary magazine; and the high school’s quiz-bowl Challenge Team, according to North Shore English teacher
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
school, he served as board president and is now chairman. He explained that it was the connections he made that kept him coming back.
“I think it’s definitely the people that were the staff and volunteers. They were dedicated,” O’Donnell said. “When (alumni) talk about their memories, they talk about a staff member, someone who either took an interest in how they played a certain sport or helped them in their education.”
and a longstanding tradition, Saturday Pizza Kitchen, run by parents.
“There’s always been a sense of community,” he said. “You knew you could go down and get pizza, and that was the thing you looked forward to on a Saturday.”
Melissa Rhodes, the club’s executive director, has a similarly deep connection. Her father, a member from the late 1950s to the mid-1960s, stayed active as an adult, particularly with events like the annual clambake and the golf tournament. Rhodes herself joined in 1986.
Through the years, the club has given members opportunities they might not otherwise have had. Rhodes noted that today, kids who have never been to a Broadway show have the chance to do that thanks to the club’s cultural programs.
“We transition them to the college prep program for high school,” she said. “We didn’t have that when I was a kid, but now it’s something we emphasize.”
“I was a very shy kid,” she said. “But that wore off really fast. I just loved being at the club. I didn’t ever want to leave. I literally attended every single day one year.”
Grenville Baker has undergone significant changes over the decades. Originally an after-school sports program focused on football, basketball and baseball, it expanded into social recreation and education.
In 1981, it merged with the local girls’ club, combining resources to serve both boys and girls. And over the past two decades, the club has introduced programs such as English as a Second Language, computer labs and college prep initiatives. More recently, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, it added a meditation center as well as social workers who offer mental health support.
“We used to have a rifle range back in the ’50s and ’60s, where kids would have BB gun competitions,” O’Donnell said. “Now we have social workers, bilingual social workers, part-time and full-time staff. That’s how we’ve evolved.”
Despite the changes, one thing has remained constant: The sense of community. O’Donnell recalled Saturdays in his childhood filled with sports, games
For club members like Abraham D., involvement in the club is deeply personal. “Grenville Baker has shaped me into a better person,” Abraham wrote in a statement. (The club keeps its members’ full names confidential.) “It has guided me through challenges and shown me what I am capable of achieving. I wouldn’t be where I am today without this club.”
As the club celebrates its anniversary, its leadership has organized numerous events throughout the year, including a clambake and others that will hark back to activities it has hosted over its history. The club’s leaders say that they want the celebration to help raise both money and awareness of the work it does, while also giving alumni a chance to reconnect with the memories that so many of them share.
“It was like a second home,” O’Donnell said. “I didn’t want to go home when my parents came to pick me up because I liked it so much.”
A special anniversary gala is scheduled for May 30, and will bring together alumni, supporters and current members to celebrate the club’s rich history and what they hope will be a promising future. For more information on Grenville Baker, the work it does and how to support it, visit GBBGC.org.
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Over 130 Sea Cliff residents partied like it was 1999 at the Love Your Neighbor All You Need Is Love ’90s Prom fundraiser on March 8 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church’s Parish Hall.
“It was absolutely epic, we had the most people come out, the most number of restaurants, and raised the most amount of money that we’ve raised in the last three years that we’ve done prom” Love Your Neighbor Project’s Chief Neighbor Jaime Teich said. “You walked in and it felt like a parents’ basement in the 90s where we all hung out in high school. It was really quite remarkable.”
The prom night is the fourth All You Need Is Love fundraiser that the Project has held since its founding in 2020 and the second one to be held in person. The nonprofit Sea Cliff charity works to promote community growth and participation and to look out for one’s neighbors.
The music for the evening was provided by local disc jockey DJ McLovin, who only played ‘90’s music throughout the night. The disc jockey was also the musical contribution at the previous All You Need Is Love prom fundraisers. In addition live music was provided by Kingfisher, a local rock band.
Drinks throughout the night were provided by Still Partners and numerous Sea Cliff restaurants contributed catering services.
“The spread that we had was absolutely incredible. There were 17 restaurants and local food establishments who provided us with everything you could think of.” said Teich. “The amount of food was incredible and really showcased all of the different establishments that we have.”
James Suozzi, right, and Christine Abbenda, left, were among the over 125 Sea Cliff residents embracing the culture of the 90s at the All You Need is Love ’90s Prom fundraiser
Items for attendees to eat included quesadillas from Cactus Cafe, butter chicken from Onion Tree and an expansive desert menu featuring candies and other sweet treats according to Teich.
The first-decade theme the charity did for their prom was the 1960s, then the 1980s in 2023 and then the 90s. The over $11,000 raised from this year’s event launches the funding for all the subsequent scholarships and grants that the Love Your Neighbor Project offers; including multiple scholarships and grants that they provide to the North Shore School District.
During the prom, guests had the opportunity to take photos in front of 90s themed posters and walls
The scholarships and grants fund projects developed by neighbors, big and small, and support high school seniors who embody the charity’s mission in their daily lives, providing money for their journey ahead.
Teich argued that events such as the prom night represent a community investment in their younger people as well as uniting people and bringing positive energy to Sea Cliff. “We’re throwing this party to unite people and to bring people together when we still feel divided in some ways,” Teich said “but we are also doing it so we can give back to the community.”
Sara Millman. She described Soltis as “a legend and class act.”
Millman added that Soltis was always available to her students for help and, among staff, never hesitated to mentor a new English teacher, as well as speak up on behalf of the Department when she felt it was necessary.
“She was very emphatic and modest but also had so much knowledge and wisdom,” District Superintendent Christopher Zublionis said. “Her instincts were so good because of that. I think it was just very natural to be honest with you, especially when you’re working with kids, they can detect your authenticity immediately.
“Susan was a pillar of our community here at North Shore,” said Josh Knight, an English teacher in the district. “She was an unofficial mentor to everyone in the English department in some capacity or another.”
Knight said that he worked closely with her for around eight years. While conceding that their love of literature is one of their only similarities, Knight said she was fundamental to his evolution as a teacher and a professional.
Knight said that Soltis “brought a lot to my instruction and had me looking at things in different ways, and that’s something that’s going to stay with me forever.”
Sotlis’ former students described her as a motivating, positive force in their lives
whose class had a resounding impact on their academic futures.
“Ms. Soltis was one of a kind of teacher whose respect you felt proud to earn and whose impact has lasted on me after high school,” the award-winning filmmaker, Brianna Lee said. Lee, who graduated from the district in 2006, had Soltis as a teacher when she was in ninth grade.
“She single-handedly taught me how to properly write and format an essay. Now, as an adult, I work as a writer and filmmaker and I still carry the lessons I learned from her,” Lee said. “She was tough in exactly the way I needed, pushing me to become stronger, and more skilled.”
Matt Pinto, a graduate of the district in 2008, pointed to reading “Of Mice and Men” and “Catcher In the Rye” in Soltis’ class as one of his favorite times as a student. Pinto said that he was excited, challenged, and inspired by what he was learning from Soltis.
“To this day, my ninth grade English Honors project on dystopian texts is one of my proudest moments as a student,” Pinto said. “Soltis helped me connect Jimi Hendrix’s guitar playing and the writing of the Doors to the ethos of disillusioned youth in the hippie culture, and helped me discover my favorite book, Orwell’s ‘1984.’”
Soltis is survived by her sister, Robin Davis.
As estate planners, we consistently meet with people who are suffering from traumatic relationships with their children or grandchildren. Children themselves may become estranged or at odds with parents or their siblings. Sometimes, an in-law is involved that seems to turn the client’s son or daughter into someone completely different from the child they raised. The pain that these clients are going through is palpable.
Some wise sage once said that all pain comes from resistance. Many of these relationship issues may be difficult or impossible to overcome, but one thing we can all do is work on ourselves — by accepting what is. Accepting what is does not mean agreeing with or condoning certain behavior. What it does mean is that you stop saying to yourself that it is not fair, it “should” be otherwise, etc. That will not do you one bit of good and may do you considerable harm. Stress has been called “the silent killer”.
We recall reading a pithy quote a while back that went something like this “when someone disappoints you, you have two choices, you
can either lower your expectations or walk away”. What is disappointment but dashed expectations? Those who learn to expect less are disappointed less.
“Accepting what is” cannot be accomplished overnight. It is a concept or thought process that improves your outlook the more you think about it, work on it and form new neural pathways to forge the new outlook.
Estate planners inevitably become “therapists” for their clients because estate planning involves social relationships. Over the years, we have observed that many social problems occur between the clients two ears. As Shakespeare said in Hamlet “There is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” Forget about what’s fair or right and what’s not. You are only hurting yourself. The other person is often blissfully unaware of how you’re feeling.
Michael J. Fox, the actor known for his optimism despite suffering from Parkinson’s, put it best when he said “My happiness grows in direct proportion to my acceptance, and in inverse proportion to my expectations”.
& Estates • Wills & Probate • Medicaid FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 or email info@trustlaw.com
Susan Soltis, a former English teacher in the North Shore School District for 31 years, died at 68. Students and former coworkers described her as a brilliant teacher and person.
In partnership with the New York Islanders the Town of Oyster Bay invites boys and girls interested in learning hockey to a special street hockey clinic at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa. This six-week program will introduce children from pre-K through fifth grade to hockey in a non-competitive and instructional clinic.
The program begins April 9, and
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meets on Wednesdays at the following times by age:
Pre-K – K: 5:30 - 6:15 p.m.
1st & 2nd grade: 6:15 - 7:15 p.m.
3rd– 5th grade: 7:15 - 8:15 p.m.
Registration fee is $165 per child. To register and for more information, please visit NewYorkIslanders. com/streethockey.
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By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
The Hofstra softball team struggled out of the gate to open the 2025 season but still has time to ready the ship for its bid to reach the postseason.
The Pride dropped 19 of its first 21 games before charting a four-game winning streak and has the bulk of the remaining Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) schedule ahead to earn one of the six available spots in the conference tournament. The winner of the CAA playoffs will receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, which Hofstra achieved in 2023.
“We definitely have hit some moments of growth and challenges,” said fourth-year head coach Adrienne Clark, whose team took 2-of-3 games from first-place Delaware last weekend to stand at 3-6 in the CAA with 18 league games remaining. “We’re trying not to focus on the outcomes as much and focus on the things that we can control and our adjustments within.”
adjustment entering the season with the loss of ace pitcher Julia Apsel, who was an integral part of the 2023 CAA championship squad and is using her final year of college eligibility at Florida State.
Junior Emma Falen is the team’s new number one pitcher after transferring from UC Riverside. The Folsom, Calif. native recorded eight strikeouts in a 4-1 win against Towson on March 14 to earn the Pride their first league win.
The pitching staff also includes freshman Carley Ernst, a two-time Lancaster-Lebanon League First Team selection during her high school career in Pennsylvania. Senior Haley Venturini, a Rhode Island native, has battled injuries over the past two seasons and Clark is hoping she can play a key part of the rotation down the stretch of the season.
The Pride’s offense returned some key pieces from last year’s 23-26 team including junior shortstop Alanna Morse, a Mepham High School graduate, who hit a home run in Hofstra’s 11-3
Feb. 16. She also has been solid anchoring the infield recording a .932 fielding percentage last season as a sophomore with 79 putouts and 88 assists.
“She’s doing a fantastic job,”said Clark of Morse, who is second on the team with a 308 batting average. “She’s also learning how to be a better teammate and support others and she’s sort of doing it in a way that is allowing her to play free and compete hard.”
Morse’s former Mepham teammate, sophomore right fielder Lily Yepez, has also emerged as a key part of the lineup after registering 14 hits in 20 starts as a freshman.
Senior first baseman Anna Butler, a Seaford High School product, adds to the Nassau County South Shore presence on the roster. Butler tied a program record for most hits during a seveninning game when she 5-for-5 in a 4-3 loss to Cornell on Feb. 28.
Butler also can contribute in the pitching circle as well and made her first relief appearance in a 1-0 victory against Howard on March 18, tossing five innings of scoreless relief to earn
the win.
“She is so committed to competing hard and to the team,” said Clark of Butler. “That dynamic is really what has been allowing her to figure some things out.”
Sophomore center fielder Chelsea Villar has begun to make waves in the lineup and entered the week as the Pride’s leading leading hitter with a .313 batting average and three home runs. Sophomore Mackenzie Fitzgerald is also making strides as a sophomore with a .293 average.
Hofstra will be on the road the next two weekends for series against Campbell and Drexel before hosting UNCWilmington for three games from April 11-13 and College of Charleston from April 18-20. The Pride conclude the regular season by hosting CAA foe Monmouth for a three-game series from May 1-3.
“In the rest of conference play it is about continuing to focus on the things we can control and continue to focus on us,” Clark said. “When we do that, we’re capable of beating any team.”
“The Vacant Space Revival Program qualified us
on-bill credits that really help me manage costs.”
—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown
Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project. psegliny.com/businessfirst
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Continuing a month-long series of interviews with influential area women in honor of Women’s History Month. Helen Dorado-Alessi is CEO of El Dorado Consulting and executive director of the Long Beach Latino Civic Association.
Herald: Tell me about yourself.
Dorado-Alessi: I grew up in Woodside, Queens, a very tight-knit community, so I was very accustomed to that kind of a world. When my husband and I looked for a new place to live when our children were growing up, Long Beach fit the bill for us. Beyond being a closeknit community, we found a community that was very charitable, giving and open.
I’m of Latin descent from the Caribbean, my dad from Cuba, my mother from Puerto Rico. So it’s kind of in my DNA to be close to the water, sun and sand. Youth development has always been a love of mine because of how hard it was for me coming up. There wasn’t any
such thing, so I always wanted to be on that side of my work. I have two kids, two grandchildren — (I’m) always out and about with them. I see the future in my grandchildren’s eyes and want to make sure that I make them proud with whatever work I am doing.
Herald: What do you do? Why?
Dorado-Alessi: I have my own company called El Dorado Consulting. I work on projects that have helped to broker relationships between philanthropy and nonprofits to get the work done. Right now I’m a consultant to Herstory Writers Workshop, an organization that helps people in jails and schools write their social justice memoirs. We ask people, if your words had the power to change hearts, minds and policies, what would they say? Through that work, I’ve been able to help people have confidence in their voice and their his-
tory, their families, their communities, and then share those stories with politicians, with businesses, with others who may not know what it’s like to walk in somebody else’s shoes.
The other thing I do is that I’m the executive director of Long Beach Latino Civic Association. No immigrant is illegal; a person cannot be illegal, but more importantly, their dreams are not illegal. They’ve left some very violent, scary places to come here, to have a life that they could be proud of. If you give people the information and the education, the knowledge, they’re more than happy to be part of Long Beach or New York or the United States.
Herald: What has challenged you in your career so far, and what keeps you going/inspires you?
Dorado-Alessi: The most challenging part of my whole career and life has
been this particular time where there’s so much animosity, hurtfulness and bullying. I think also the biggest challenge is, how do we fight misinformation and bold-faced lies? I could see why a lot of people would want this particular person to be running the country. I understand that they have their views. I’m just hoping that people, when they see what is really happening, will take a step back.
I think the parts that really drive me is when I work with young people, and I think that could have been my mom or my dad having just arrived. When I see them succeed, when I see them with a little bit of help, they’re going to college, or they’re getting a job on Wall Street. I think other men and women in the field who are fighting as hard as I am and we are, that’s what inspires me. I’m not alone.
More information can be found atherstorywriters.org, and LBlatinocivic.org. Responses have been edited for clarity. The rest of this interview can be found online, at liherald.com.
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
Juli Grey-Owens is founder and executive director of Gender Equality New York.
Herald: Tell me about yourself.
Grey-Owens: I am a senior trans women who does advocacy work for our community. I grew up in northwestern New Jersey, had a relatively normal childhood. I knew something was different around (age) 3 or 4. In my preteen years I experimented, but didn’t know what was up because this was the 1960s.
I went to high school and was a good student. I was a decent athlete, co-captain of my football team. Met a girl in eighth grade, and we were friends until we started going out in junior year. My experimentation stopped during high school because I was busy with school, sports — I had a girlfriend. I graduated with high honors and applied to engineering schools.
Then my parents had a tough divorce, and I had no money. College was a mess, trying to work multiple jobs and school. I felt a lot of pressure and began experimenting again.
I was recruited to a Fortune 500 company out of college, started work, paid off my bills, and then I went to a counselor to see if I could get rid of this “thing.”
The counselor was really terrific, and he said to me, “You’re not gonna get rid of it. You have to decide how you’re
gonna deal with it.”
I decided to blend this into my life. I continued as a cisgender man, but on weekends I would maybe go to a party or something, just to try to figure out the community and how I fit in it.
In 1981 a work opportunity brought my fiancée and I to Long Island. I got my MBA, I married that girl from junior year, and at 35 we had a child. As I got older, I felt stifled because between career and family, there was no time to go out.
A real turning point was when my father passed away. I was 47 at the time and I started looking at my life, as you do when your parent passes away, and I decided I needed to be more authentic. I started going to trans events in 2003, and it progressed from there.
ing at Northwell Health and Memorial Sloan-Kettering.
Herald: What has challenged you in your career so far, and what keeps you going/inspires you?
Grey-Owens: The public has a very poor idea of our community, and we suffer as a result. There’s a lot of bad information out there, outright lies in some cases. For example, 8-year-olds are not getting surgery, and school nurses are not giving out hormones. If we don’t get information out, if we don’t start making people aware of our communities, these lies will continue.
My wife and I separated in 2007, and then in 2008 I met my second wife. We’ve been together for 16 years and married for 13.
Herald: What do you do? Why?
Grey-Owens: I’m founder and executive director of Gender Equality New York, a nonprofit that advocates for transgender, gender nonbinary and intersex New Yorkers. The work we do is largely educational: We provide information to agencies, legislators. I provide training to the Nassau and Suffolk police academies. I also provide train-
We currently have a federal government that’s attacking our community and trying to make us disappear. So the work has to be done to normalize our community and make people aware of the conditions we live under.
Herald: What has been the proudest moment in your life?
Grey-Owens: Getting the transgender civil rights bill passed in 2019. Prior to January 2019, a transgender person could be discriminated against in employment, housing and public services.
In 2003, lesbians, gays and bisexuals were able to pass a bill called the Sexual
Orientation Non-Discrimination Act in New York dtate, granting them their civil rights, (but it) specifically excluded the transgender community. It was 16 years before the trans community got their civil rights.
In 2019, the Gender Expression NonDiscrimination Act was signed into law, and we have had civil rights protections in New York state since then. There are no federal protections, so if we leave there are no guaranteed protections.
Herald: What advice do you have to offer? What work is left to be done?
Grey-Owens: Trying to get federal protections for our community is a big thing, but right now we’re just trying to get our community to survive the next four years.
And to some of our younger members, who might still be in school, or living under their family’s rule, and are unable to come out and be themselves: Be patient. Be safe. Make sure you have a roof over your head, that you’re fed and taken care of, get your high school diploma, if you’re able to, get to college. Usually you’re able to be more authentically yourself in college.
It does get better once we get older, but once you’re out as an adult, anything you can do to help move the community forward is important and necessary.
For more information, visit genderequalityny.org or follow @genderequalityny on Instagram and Facebook.
Friends, family, and residents came to the Sea Cliff Village Library to view Fay’s work, talk with him, and eat and drink
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Sea Cliff artist Mark Fay showcased numerous paintings of the American northeast at his new exhibit at the Sea Cliff Library Sunday afternoon.
The exhibit of 15 paintings as well as six pencil drawings done by Fay, opened at 300 Sea Cliff Ave. from 4-6 p.m. Stylistically the paintings vary; some are pastel, some are watercolor as well as acrylic paintings. The canvas that Fay painted on was far smaller than what he would typically do for his murals.
To paint and to pray are the same thing, I tried to have these paintings look like prayers of gratitude for what we have around us.
MARK FAY
Sea Cliff Artist
The varying seasons throughout the American Northeast are at the core of all of Fay’s paintings in the exhibit. Several paintings are from Pennsylvania, upstate New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut River. “For me, there is never a gap of not having inspiration for the subject matter around here,” Fay said. “It’s always great, there’s such a beautiful area,”
“I’ve been painting my whole life,” said Fay, who is an established mural painter in the village. His connection to painting can be drawn back to his grandfather, Charles Gulbrandsen.
Gulbrandsen was an apprentice in the early 1900s on the original mural that adorns the ceiling of Grand Central Terminal’s main concourse and was the general contractor on its redesign in 1945. Fay’s exhibit featured a few photos of his grandfather working on the Grand Central restoration.
Food, drinks and classical music filled up the library. In addition there were sign-in sheets for guests to leave a message to Fay about his work.
Fay had deep personal connections to all the areas he painted. He grounded his work with a quote as he worked on the pieces that would make up the exhibit.
Stylistically the paintings displayed by Fay vary; some are pastel, some are watercolor as well as acrylic paintings. The canvas that Fay painted on was far smaller than what he would typically do for his murals.
“To paint and to pray are the same thing.” Fay said, “I tried to have these paintings look like prayers of gratitude for what we have around us.”
Fay moved to Sea Cliff with his wife, Laura, in 1986. He worked as an art teacher in the Manhasset School District and produced residential and commercial murals on the side.
Village Trustee Mark Sobel showed attendees the 20-foot-long and 4-and-a-half-foot-high mural that Fay painted on the front wall of the office in Village Hall. The mural depicts a view from Prospect Avenue overlooking Cliff Way, Hempstead Harbor, Glen Cove, and
Fay said that his grandfather, Charles Gulbrandsen, is one of his biggest inspirations in art
Mosquito Cove.
“I wasn’t really anticipating it, I was hoping we would be able to do it,” Fay said. “He (Sobel) was nice enough to let people come in for a few minutes and take a look at it,”
Fay thanked his daughter, Kristen, and his son, Stephen, for attending the opening. He also credited his wife, Laura, for the work on the exhibit. “She’s handled so many of the details of this exhibit, including the invitations, the reception, and the placement and hanging of the paintings,” Fay said. “She’s got a great eye.”
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By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
At the annual New York Press Association Spring Conference in Saratoga Springs last week, Herald Community Media won seven state awards in the 2024 Better Newspaper Contest. Long Beach reporter Angelina Zingariello won a first place award in the Feature Story category, Division 4. With so many submissions in each of six divisions, it is a very difficult award to win.
About the story with the headline “A long, cold, healing journey” the judges said: “Good combination of personal struggle and outcome with unconventional therapy. Well written and edited, a compelling read.”
The Nov. 21 story focused on how Long Beach resident Mindi Dovberg uses cold-water immersion as a technique for an emotional reset when dealing with physical challenges and emotional setbacks.
The Herald took the top spot in Best Large Space Ad, Division 1, which was printed in the Nassau Herald and other Herald newspapers.
“This stunning ad touches me,” one judge wrote. “The simplicity and pure elegance of this is beautiful. Love how white space was used to create such an impact. Proves the point that sometimes less really is more! Outstanding!”
There were 10 entries in the Rookie Reporter of The Year category, and Sea Cliff/Glen Head reporter Brian Norman captured second place with stories ranging from the controversy surrounding the proposed state regionalization plan to how the food is prepared for North Shore High School students.
Sea Cliff/Glen Head reporter Brian Norman, left took second place in the Rookie Reporter of the Year category. His colleagues Melissa Berman and Charles Shaw congratulate him.
The judges said: “Reporter does a great job conveying story to readers, whether the subject be ‘hard’ news or a feature article.”
Norman, a 2024 graduate of Quinnipiac University, interned with the Herald last summer and was hired in September as a full-time reporter for Sea Cliff/Glen Head. He is now a reporter for the Nassau Herald, the flagship newspaper for the community weekly chain.
Photographer Brian Ballweg placed second in the Sports Feature, Division 1 category. The photograph appeared on the front page of the June 13 Rockville Centre Herald.
The judges said: “This photo shows
excellent framing of the lacrosse winners in this overtime state championship moment. Their faces run to the spectrum of elation, stopping the viewer — the joy here is studying their faces, bodies contained in the goal.”
Creative Director Jeffrey Negrin earned a trio of third-place awards.
In the Best Special Section Cover, Division 2 category, the judges said: “Another really excellent use of text on black with fun ‘clinks’ of glasses as backdrop. Long Island Choice Awards makes me want to open this up over a cocktail.”
For Special Sections/Niche Publications-Newsprint, Division 1 the judges said: “Excellent school recognition.”
The publication was the Herald’s annual special section for the Red and Blue competition at South Side High School that was published for the Feb. 29, 2024 Rockville Centre Herald.
In the Best Multi-Advertiser Pages category, judges said: “Cute organic for a shared page. Makes you want to read each one.”
The 2024 Better Newspapers Contest had 132 newspapers statewide submit 2,082 entries in 68 categories. The Missouri Press Association judged the submissions.
“It’s always nice to be recognized by our peers and colleagues,” said Herald Community Media publisher Stuart Richner. “We look forward to continuing to tell the stories of our communities in the weeks and years ahead. Congratulations to our team on well deserved recognition.”
By Karen Bloom
Sure … the Hollywood moviemakers grab your attention. Yet there’s so much more to the movie biz beside that tentpole blockbuster. Check out the Asbury Short Film Concert, which returns to its local “home” at the Madison Theatre next Friday and see an abundance of creative offerings. There’s certainly no denying the appeal of a major feature film. But for those who crave something different that certainly strikes an emotional chord, Asbury’s “concert” is for you. This national touring showcase brings a diverse, focused lineup — in many cases featuring up-and-coming filmmakers — of smaller efforts you generally won’t find on the big screen.
And it’s most definitely not a festival.
“We present the best in comedy, drama, animation, even the occasional documentary,” says Doug LeClaire, Asbury Shorts’ founder and longtime director. “We call it a concert rather than a festival because there are no awards, no Q&A or panel discussions, it’s all about entertainment value for the audience.”
As in previous years, Asbury Shorts offers up an eclectic mix of films, what LeClaire describes as a “potpourri of the short film world.”
LeClaire, who was in commercial and film production for over four decades, has been passionate about short films since his student days at New York Institute of Technology. He pivoted to promoting his beloved short films full time and the result has been a resounding success.
“Myself, and those who have been with me the longest, didn’t think our short film party that began in Westbury in 1981 would evolve into a major global touring event that has presented Asbury Shorts shows from Berlin to L.A. over the years with many, many stops in between,” LeClaire says. “The mission has always been to keep great short films, from all years, projected on real cinema screens as opposed to YouTube, smart phones, computers or tablets or the big screen TVs. Asbury Shorts is strictly a theatrical cinema event, no virtual allowed!
“Our number one priority is the enjoyment of our audience. We’re proud to provide an outlet for the filmmakers’ product. For us, it is all about the experience, showing these films to an audience. We give them the opportunity to experience great films on a big screen the way they were meant to be seen.”
He and his team cull them from the film festival circuit — including the prestigious SXSW (South by Southwest), Sundance and Toronto International Film Festival, and Tribeca Festival, among others.
“To get an award at one of these festivals is just as good as an Oscar nomination,” LeClaire says. “These young filmmakers are so happy to get that wreath. They collect them the way we would collect baseball cards back in the day.”
• Friday, April 4, 7:30 p.m.
• For tickets, visit madisontheatreny.org or call the box office at (516) 323-4444
• Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
Think of this as your personal film festival experience. As LeClaire puts it: “We’re bringing these films to folks who can’t get to film festivals.”
His formula certainly has resonated with audiences.
“We have demonstrated that we are entertaining and blessed to have fans that keep coming back,” LeClaire says, “while also reaching out to new audiences.”
The two-hour show moves along briskly. The films range from a brief few minutes to 20 minutes at most.
“A good short film is to the point, fast paced, and most important of all, is the ending,” LeClaire says. “It must make sense.”
And that ending will surely leave you wanting more.
Among the highlights, LeClaire points to Martín Rosete’s 10-minute “Voice Over,” which depicts the urgency of life’s pivotal moments in a desperate race against time.
Three different stories are told by the same narrator searching for the correct story. The same actor appears in all three. Will the narrator find what he’s looking for? We don’t know — maybe, maybe not.
Rosete, a Spanish filmmaker now based in New York, was awarded the Goya, Spain’s Academy Award, for “Voice Over.”.
LeClaire describes it as “sort of the ‘perfect’ short film” due its story and production values.
“It has outstanding and mind boggling production design for an indie produced short film and an ending that I really like,” he explains.
Another standout is “Anomaly” from director Ryan Jenkins, which was honored recently with Best Short Film at the Lake Placid Film Festival. In this 15-minute drama, a renowned magician features an inexplicable illusion in his final run of performances. Meanwhile, a government agent who witnesses the baffling act becomes hell-bent on uncovering its method.
As for the rest, well, you’ll have to attend and see for yourself. LeClaire doesn’t like to reveal too much, promising it’s all “great fun.”
He is delighted to come back to his Long Island roots with his film showcase.
“We’re very heartened by the audience at the Madison. We are grateful to [Artistic Director] Angelo Fraboni and his staff for allowing us to return each year. It’s been a terrific relationship.”
‘Good times…’
Neil Diamond is certainly forever — as honored by Neil Forever, returning to the Paramount stage. David Jacobson, the tribute band’s founder, has a great passion for the music and legacy of the legendary performer. David, along with his son and music director Dylan Jacobson and drummer John Cardoso began their journey in January 2023. Today, the 14-person ensemble delivers an authentic, exciting and joyful concert that captivates the legendary superstar’s fans. Performing Diamond’s music is as much about heart and soul as it is talent; it’s a celebration of the music and the man who created it. The band has forged an exciting path, as discovered by excited and passionate fans, of all ages. Audiences are thrilled by the authentic renditions of classic hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Coming to America,” and “Kentucky Women.”
Friday, March 28, 8 p.m. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
The South Shore Symphony Orchestra springs forward with its next concert, “Slavic Masterworks,” at its Madison Theatre home. The orchestra is joined by renowned cellist Amy Barston, featured in Polish composer Grayna Bacewicz’s Cello Concerto No. 1. A rare gem, according to Barston, she notes that it is fresh to the concert stage in that it is quasi-newly discovered, but it feels like a familiar, beloved masterwork. Electrifying, often dance-like energy, paired with soaring lyrical melodies, it has received an enthusiastic reception from audiences. The evening’s repertoire also includes Dvorak’s Slavonic Dances, op. 46, no. 3 in Ab major and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, op. 64, e minor.
Saturday, March 29, 7:30 p.m. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 3234444.
Grab those leather jackets, and rock on! The Wallflowers are back on the road and bringing their sound to the Paramount stage, Sunday, April 6, at 8 p.m., with special guest Jackson Melnick. For the past 30 years, the Jakob Dylanled act has stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands — a unit dedicated to and continually honing a sound that meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hard-hitting and decidedly modern musical attack. That signature style has been present through the decades, baked into the grooves of smash hits like 1996’s “Bringing Down the Horse” as well as more recent and exploratory fare like 2012’s “Glad All Over.” Even so, in recent years, Dylan — the Wallflowers’ founding singer, songwriter and guitarist — has repeatedly stepped outside of his band. First with a pair of more acoustic and rootsy records, 2008’s “Seeing Things” and 2010’s “Women + Country,” and then with the 2018 film “Echo in the Canyon” and the accompanying soundtrack, which saw him collaborate with a host of artists classic and contemporary, from Neil Young and Eric Clapton to Beck and Fiona Apple.
Sea Cliff’s own Crash My Party reunites for the first time in years for a performance in support of Sea Cliff sculptor Kiril Tzochev Saturday, April 5 , 8-9:30 p.m. Tzotchev is a sculpture, drawing and painting instructor. He is also the founder and director of The Classical Art School. Tzotchev also teaches at the Nassau County Museum of Art and the Art League of Long Island. $20. To purchase a ticket and for more information, visit seacliffartscouncil.org. 86 Roslyn Ave.
Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to participate in Holi, the Festival of Colors, Sunday, April 6 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Originating in India, this Hindu festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of the colorful spring season. During this joyous celebration, families eat sweets, dance to traditional folk music and throw colorful powder made from flowers called gulal.
Join Egyptologists-authorsprofessors Drs. Colleen and John Darnell at Nassau County Museum of Art, Sunday, March 30, 3 p.m., for a fascinating lecture on “Egyptomania” in the 1920s. The Darnells are authors of several books and dozens of articles. With academic careers in Egyptology at Yale University, they are committed to bringing ancient Egypt’s rich history, religion, art, and language to a worldwide audience. Their passion for vintage fashion and modeling has led to exciting collaborations with Egypt’s premier jewelry designers, photographers and magazines. Limited seating. Registration required. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students; members free. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org.
But while it’s been nine long years since we’ve heard from the group with whom he first made his mark, the Wallflowers are silent no more. And Dylan always knew they’d return. And return the band has, with “Exit Wounds,” their new studio offering. It marks the first new Wallflowers material since “Glad All Over.” And while the wait has been long, the much-anticipated record finds the band’s signature sound — lean, potent and eminently entrancing — intact, even as Dylan surrounds himself with a fresh cast of musicians. $75, $45, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Crafts, color throwing and dancing are part of this vibrant event. Welcome spring’s arrival with Holi. Participants are encouraged to wear clothes that they won’t mind getting messy. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Go to licm.org or call (516) 224-5800 for more information.
A weekly craft program for everyone who loves to knit or crochet, Fridays, 2 p.m., at Sea Cliff Library. This is an informal program where you are encouraged to bring the project you are working on and be with other like-minded people. Share your knowledge, have fun and relax. 300 Sea Cliff Ave. Visit seaclifflibrary.org or call (516) 671-4290.
Visit Planting Fields
Arboretum for a delightful stroll among the early bloomers, as part of its First Fridays series, Friday, April 4, 1-2 p.m. Experience the enchanting spring colors at the Margaret Sullivan Heather Garden. Director of Horticulture Donna Moramarco guides visitors through the remarkable collection of azaleas, cherry blossom trees, magnolias, camellias, and more as you stroll the grounds to the recently restored garden. Discover the rich horticultural history of this stunning space, learn about the Coe family’s dedication to these vibrant flowers, and delve into the vision that the Olmsted Brothers had for this beloved site. $20. Registration required. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay. Visit plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210 to register and for information.
The North Shore Coalition against Substance Abuse invites all adults to participate in a pickleball tournament at Gold Coast Pickleball Club, Saturday, April 5. Tickets are $80 and will buy games, food, refreshments and prizes. The tournament runs from 3-6 p.m. Head to eventbrite.com/e/ ns-casa-pickleball-tournamenttickets-1273709111239?aff= oddtdtcreator to register and for more. 95 Glen Head Road.
Enjoy an evening of songs and stories with Long Island-based Miles & Mafale with Roger Street Friedman, hosted by Sea Cliff Arts Council, Saturday, March 29. Award-winning songwriter Roger Street Friedman mix of blues, country and vintage rock and roll to creat his unique sound. Joining Friedman are Miles and Mafale, a modern folk songwriting duo. $35. To purchase a ticket and for more information, visit seacliffartscouncil.org. 86 Roslyn Ave.
Long Island Children’s Museum opens its doors to a weekend devoted to STEM activities, Saturday and Sunday, March 29-30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., that will ignite the imaginations of children and adults alike.Guest experts offer engaging demonstrations, experiments and interactive activities.
Highlights include sampling the science of molecular gastronomy with flash frozen ice cream; learn about native and invasive species that swim in Long Island waters; discover how oysters are coming to our rescue; study the water cycle and Long Island’s unique geographic formations and more. Activities free with museum admission. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Visit licm.org or call (516) 224-5800 for more.
Having an event?
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct followup to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/ Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.
Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, April 13, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
20%
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The Propel NY Energy project is aiming to revo-
1
The Big Investment
$3.26 Billion:
Ratepayers fund the total capital cost for the entire project across New York state.
Six Cents a Day:
Estimated additional cost to an average residential ratepayer—about six cents per day—to support the new infrastructure.
2
The New Grid
90 Miles of Transmission Lines:
The project will construct 90 miles of new underground transmission lines, with 66 miles in Nassau County and additional segments extending into Suffolk County, the Bronx, and Westchester.
3 Additional Interconnection Points:
Long Island currently relies on just two connection points to the statewide grid. Propel NY Energy will add three
lutionize Long Island’s electric grid. The project is currently in the Article Seven permitting process — a two-year review involving environmental and engineering assessments. Construction is slated to
new connections, strengthening overall grid reliability and resiliency.
5 Interconnection Points in Total:
With the new additions, the grid will have five connection points, ensuring that power flows efficiently in both directions.
Construction & Permitting Article Seven Permitting:
The rigorous Article Seven process, covering environmental, socioeconomic, and engineering assessments, is expected to take approximately two years, with submissions made in July and anticipated approval around July 2026.
Construction Timeline:
Construction is slated to begin in mid-2026 and continue for three to four years, with completion expected by mid-2030.
begin in mid-2026 and continue until mid-2030. Here’s the key numbers and figures driving this $3.26 billion initiative:
Underground cables will be installed at a depth of roughly 5 to 7 feet, ensuring they are protected from weather and other external risks.
Daily Progress:
Crews are projected to advance between 50 and 150 feet per day per crew, minimizing long-term disruption to local neighborhoods.
4
Future-Proofing the Grid
50 to 90 Percent Increase in Demand:
As much as a 50 to 90 percent surge in electricity demand is projected over the next 20 years, driven by electrification, including electric vehicles, heat pumps, and data centers.
50 percent Renewable Energy by 2030: By 2030, it’s anticipated that 50 percent of Long Island’s power will come from offshore wind—made possible by the upgraded grid capacity.
Avoided Congestion Savings:
Enhanced transmission efficiency is expected to save the state an estimated $3.3 billion in congestion-related costs over time.
Selection & Local Impact 19 Proposals Reviewed:
The project was chosen through a competitive process that evaluated 19 proposals from four developers, with Propel NY Energy emerging as the most cost-effective solution.
Local Workforce:
The project will utilize local union labor and contractors, ensuring economic benefits and community engagement throughout Nassau County and beyond.
The Propel NY Energy project is about building a resilient electrical grid that meets the rising energy demands of Long Island and supports a more sustainable energy future.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, SSA NE ASSETS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. ANGAD HOMES, LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order
Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 6, 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 April 4, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 66 Peachtree Lane, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of North Hempstead a/k/a Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 7, Block 312 and Lot 7. Approximate amount of judgment is $961,399.74 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608310/2021.
Christine M. Grillo, Esq., Referee Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152013
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT E. NOWALK, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Discharging Guardian Ad Litem, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 30, 2024 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on February 5, 2025, 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 April 23, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 37 Garfield Avenue, Glen Head, NY 11545. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 20, Block 6 and Lot 218. Approximate amount of judgment is $711,240.87 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #007637/2016. Cash will not be accepted.
Brian Davis, Esq., Referee
Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152330
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Sea Cliff scheduled a meeting for the purpose of a holding a public hearing on the 2025-2026 Tentative Budget.
Date: April 8, 2025
Time:7:00 pm
Place:Village Hall, 300 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, THAT a copy of the 2025-2026 Tentative Budget will be available at the Office of the Village Clerk, Village Hall, Sea Cliff Ave., Sea Cliff, N.Y., where it may be inspected by any person during the regular office hours (Monday - Friday 9:00a.m. to 4:30p.m.)
Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.
Dated: March 24, 2025
Sarah Beaudin
Sea Cliff, NY Village Clerk 152490
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Sea Cliff will hold a public hearing with respect to the following local law: Bill VSC 2501
A local law authorizing a property tax levy in excess of the limit established in General Municipal Law §3-c Date: April 8, 2025
Time:7:00 pm
Place:Village Hall, 300 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York
The proposed local law is available for public inspection at the Village Clerk’s office at 300 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York, between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, except legal holidays. All interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing.
Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.
Dated: March 24, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE MAYOR AND TRUSTEES
Sarah Beaudin, Village Clerk 152491
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE
A meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Sea Cliff has been scheduled for April 2, 2025 at 8:30 am in Sea Cliff Village Hall, 300 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, NY.
Dated: March 24, 2025
Sarah Beaudin Sea Cliff, NY Village Clerk 152492
Road, Brookville, New York.
The subject of said hearing will be the proposed budget of revenues and expenditures for the Village for the Fiscal Year June 1, 2025-May 31, 2026. Under the proposed budget, no compensation is proposed to be given to any member of the Board of Trustees.
A copy of the Tentative Budget is available at the Village Office, 18 Horse Hill Road, Brookville, NY 11545, where it may be inspected by any interested person between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on usual business hours from the date of this notice until the time of hearings. All persons interested will be given an opportunity to be heard at said hearing. All citizens have a right to attend the public hearing and provide written and oral comments and to ask questions concerning the proposed Village Budget.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dated: March 20, 2025
Winsome Citarella, Clerk Treasurer 152487
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE INC. VILLAGE OF BROOKVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2025 EAST NORWICH FIRE CONTRACT
I’m too lazy and impatient to cook, so I order takeout all the time. Since I’ve been at it for decades, I feel I can say grabbing takeout on a regular basis requires skill and talent. It’s an art form. Are you a true takeout artist? Answer the four questions below, which relate to new foods in our neighborhood, and find out.
Domino’s Pizza (104 School St., Glen Cove)
Is there a truckload of pizza in your life? If so, you might agree, the crust is the boring part. Thankfully, those days are over. Domino’s now offers Parmesan Stuffed Crust. The dough is filled with a layer of mozzarella cheese. I ordered this delicious version and was so excited when I sank my teeth into the crust. Oozy cheese was in every bite.
Okaru (1401 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn)
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE INC. VILLAGE OF BROOKVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2025 TENTATIVE BUDGET
The Board of Trustees of the Village of Brookville will hold a public hearing on April 15, 2025 at 6:30 P.M. at the AHRC Nassau, 189 Wheatley
NOTICE IF HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by and for the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Brookville to consider the advisability of entering into a one (1) year contract with the East Norwich Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 Inc. Said hearing is to be held on April 15, 2025 at the AHRC, 189 Wheatley Road, Brookville, New York at 6:30 pm. At said time and place interested parties will be given an opportunity to be heard.
By Order of the Board of Trustees. Winsome Citarella Village Clerk Treasurer March 20, 2025 152488
Grilled Branzino. It’s a happy place. Coffee & Scoop (271 Bayville Ave., Bayville)
To avoid “takeout boredom,” do you appreciate restaurants where food is designed and plated in imaginative ways? If the answer is yes, you’ll have fun in this new, upscale Japanese restaurant. When I ordered avocado crispy rice, I was expecting a bowl of rice surrounded by avocado slices. Instead, I was served an elegant plate filled with sushi-shaped pieces. The top layers were decorated with a silky avocado spread. The bottom layers were made of crunchy fried rice with a toasty-nutty texture. For dessert, my pumpkin kabocha cheesecake looked like a delicate flower. Its candied pumpkin seeds were encased in a paper-thin sheet of clear sugar that resembled a tiny scarf.
A wonderland of sushi is featured on the menu as well, along with entrees ranging from Miso Red Lamb Chops to
Do you like to watch the way your takeout order is being prepared? I do, so I love to bop into this gelato, pastry and coffee shop. Shop owner, Andy Lin, told me, “Every gelato flavor is crafted in small batches using a machine you can see in front of you. It allows the customers to watch the gelato-making process in real time. There are 12 pots dedicated to creating base flavors such as vanilla and chocolate. From there, the possibilities of combinations are endless. Blending hazelnut and chocolate creates a flavor reminiscent of Ferrero Rocher candy—a customer favorite.” The smooth-as-silk salted caramel gelato is my favorite. Other favorite rotating flavors such as Cookie Butter are back, joined by pastries baked every morning, and countless coffee flavors, lattes and slushies. Tamago Sando, a Japanese-inspired egg sandwich that pairs perfectly with their buttery croissants is new!
Rising Tide (42 Forest Ave., Glen Cove)
Do you refuse to cook anything that requires more than one step? For example, I love baked tofu, but I’ll never consider draining it, drying it and putting it in the oven. That exceeds my step quota. Instead, I’m thrilled Rising Tide has introduced baked sesame tofu in the deli section. It’s firm and ginger-y (but not too ginger-y) and comes in a container filled with bite sized pieces. When I’m driving, I pop a piece in my mouth every time I stop at a red light.
If you read through this entire column, you’re a true takeout artist. Congratulations. See you next month!
Small businesses are the backbone of Long Island, fueling local economies and creating jobs.
But despite their vital role in empowering Long Islanders and enhancing local main streets, small businesses are struggling. Countless mom-and-pop shops are still reeling from the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, and small-business owners are grappling with inflation and facing fierce competition from corporate giants with massive marketing budgets.
Last month I took a major step to support Long Island’s small-business community by introducing the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act in the State Senate. The LOCAL Act, which was also introduced in the Assembly by member Jen Luns-
ford, would establish a tax credit for small businesses to promote their goods, products and services in local media outlets, from print and digital to television and radio.
The goal of the LOCAL Act is simple yet powerful: to help small businesses stretch their marketing dollars while connecting with their most important audience, their neighbors.
IThe LOCAL Act would level the playing field for Long Island’s small businesses by making marketing more affordable. It would also support local news outlets, which provide the journalism our communities rely on but that are struggling to stay afloat. As advertising revenue shrinks, more newsrooms are being forced to cut staff or shut down altogether, leaving neighborhoods without the local reporting they count on. The LOCAL Act directly addresses this issue head-on by encouraging small businesses to invest in these news outlets, providing a mutually beneficial lifeline for economic
growth.
t would level the playing field for them by making marketing more affordable.
When small businesses thrive, so do their communities. The LOCAL Act would focus on supporting any business with 10 or fewer employees as well as minority-, woman- and veteran-owned businesses of any size. For many owners of these businesses, the ability to advertise affordably in trusted, community-driven platforms like local newspapers would be a gamechanger. Local media outlets are well positioned to connect businesses with their neighbors and loyal customers who are eager to shop locally and uplift their communities.
Small businesses do more than drive economic growth — they strengthen the neighborhoods they serve, sponsor local initiatives and reflect the cultural identity of their communities. For this reason, The LOCAL Act has already garnered strong support from business groups across Long Island and the state, including the Long Island Association,
the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of Independent Business and the thousands of small businesses each organization represents, as well as the more than 200 newspapers that make up the Empire State Local News Coalition. This is a testament to the urgency and importance of this legislation.
The LOCAL Act is a clear benefit for all New Yorkers. It’s a chance to make sure every dollar invested in marketing can help Long Island foster a vibrant economic environment where small businesses can grow and communities can prosper.
State legislators have a real chance to invest in solutions that make a difference for businesses and local economies across New York this year. By working alongside the Long Island business and local news community to pass this transformative bill, we will empower small businesses, uplift local journalism and create stronger, more vibrant communities for generations to come.
Monica Martinez represents the 4th State Senate District.
The current threat of deportation for many of Long Island’s immigrants is unjust, unwise and cruel. Members of Pax Christi Long Island, representing the Catholic peace movement, urge our community to recognize the long tradition of Catholic social teaching that guides us to the command of Jesus in Matthew 25 that we “welcome the stranger.”
As a devout Jew, Jesus knew well the command of Leviticus 19:33-34: “When an alien resides with you in your land, do not mistreat such a one. You shall treat the alien who resides with you no different than the natives born among you …”
Catholic bishops:
Our belief in the dignity of the human person demands that we treat immigrants with respect and recognize their great contributions. But our nation imposes quotas and bureaucracies that make legal immigration overwhelmingly difficult, and brands those who flee their troubled homelands as “illegals.”
At this time, our nation seems to be both shunning and relying on immigrants. As a new surge of poisonous nativism creates fear among the immigrant communities, Pope Francis has spoken clearly in a letter to American
“I have followed closely the major crisis that is taking place in the United States with the initiation of a program of mass deportations. The rightly formed conscience cannot fail to make a critical judgment and express its disagreement with any measure that tacitly or explicitly identifies the illegal status of some migrants with criminality. At the same time, one must recognize the right of a nation to defend itself and keep communities safe from those who have committed violent or serious crimes while in the country or prior to arrival. That said, the act of deporting people who in many cases have left their own land for reasons of extreme poverty, insecurity, exploitation, persecution or serious deterioration of the environment, damages the dignity of many men and women, and of entire families, and places them in a state of particular vulnerability and defenselessness. . . .
The true common good is promoted when society and government, with creativity and strict respect for the rights of all — as I have affirmed on numerous occasions — welcomes, protects, promotes and integrates the most fragile, unprotected and vulnerable.”
As Long Island residents, we have deep connections with the immigrant community. They are family members, friends, classmates, neighbors and coworkers. Our decades of experience show that most immigrants are hardworking and law-abiding. The Immigration Research Institute reports that immigrants account for 22 percent of Long Island’s economic output. Across New York state, undocumented immigrants contribute $1.1 billion in state and local taxes.
We value and respect local law enforcement officers. We remind them that enforcing federal policy on immigrants is the responsibility of the federal government. We urge local law enforcement to refrain from collaboration with federal immigration agencies, such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement, unless a person is detained because of a criminal act or has a criminal record. We also remind local law enforcement that:
ship have always been respected as places of refuge. No law enforcement agency should be allowed to violate those spaces without probable cause.
■ People reporting crimes should not be forced to prove their identity before they are helped. This is especially true in cases of domestic violence.
■ Minors should not be intimidated or questioned unnecessarily; rather, they should be protected.
Pax Christi Long Island stands with our immigrant community because it’s the right thing to do. We acknowledge their sizable contribution to the health and welfare of Long Island. We ask all Long Islanders to embrace and protect them nonviolently from injustice and abuse. We hope to remain true to our religious tradition and the universal standard of decency, by treating all people the way we would like to be treated.
■ No one can enter a private dwelling unless they have a warrant signed by a judge. An administrative order signed by ICE does not meet legal criteria for entering a private dwelling.
■ Hospitals, schools, and places of wor-
Pax Christi Long Island members Sister Mary Beth Moore and Sister Evelyn Lamoureux are Catholic nuns who have worked with immigrants for decades. Pax Christi Long Island can be contacted at catholic peaceli@gmail.com.
Every day, nearly 8,000 New Yorkers wait for a lifesaving organ transplant. Each year, too many of them die before receiving one. Despite the extraordinary advancements in medicine and the generosity of registered organ donors, New York still has one of the lowest donor registration rates in the country. But we have the power to change that — through education.
As an assemblyman, I’ve met countless advocates fighting to raise awareness of organ donation, but none as inspiring as Ava Walia, above left, a 12-year-old from Syosset who has dedicated herself to this cause. Ava isn’t just a student; she is a leader, a Donate Life Child Ambassador, and an advocate determined to make a difference. She knows that knowledge is key to increas-
ing donor participation, and she has a bold idea to ensure that every child in New York understands the importance of organ donation. Together we’ve even traveled to the White House to advocate for greater organ donation education initiatives.
A va Walia and I have been to the White House to advocate for our cause.
Ava’s impressive legislative proposal, the Organ Donation Education in Schools Act, would require New York schools to incorporate organ donation education into health curriculums from elementary through high school. The legislation is simple, but its impact would be profound. Texas has already implemented similar lessons in its schools, and New York should follow suit. By teaching students about organ donation in an age-appropriate way, we can dispel myths, address fears, and empower young people to have informed conversations with their families.
For Ava, this issue is personal. Her grandfather’s health struggles opened her eyes to the lifesaving power of
organ donation. She saw firsthand how transplants give people a second chance at life, and she has made it her mission to spread awareness. She has already educated her own classmates through presentations, and now she is pushing for change at the state level.
The truth is, many people hesitate to register as organ donors because of misinformation. Some believe they won’t receive proper medical care if they are donors, or that their religious beliefs prevent them from donating — neither of which is true. Education is the best way to dispel fear with facts. Studies show that people who learn about organ donation early in life are more likely to become registered donors when they turn 16.
In addition to expanding education in K-12 schools, the Organ Donation Education in Schools Act would build on New York’s commitment to increase donation rates by making it easier for young adults to register. Under this
proposal, students applying to SUNY and CUNY schools would have the option to enroll in the state Donate Life Registry directly on their college applications. This simple step would increase donor participation among young New Yorkers at a critical decision-making moment in their lives.
This is more than just a policy proposal — it’s a movement built on compassion, knowledge and the power of young voices. Ava’s advocacy has already inspired action at the state level, and together we are working to pass this legislation and make a lasting difference.
To the students, parents and educators reading this: Let’s ensure that every young New Yorker has access to the lifesaving knowledge of organ donation. By teaching kindness, civic responsibility and the science behind transplants, we can create a future in which no one dies waiting for a donor. Ava is proof that one person — even one young person — can change the world. Now it’s time for New York to act.
Jake Blumencranz represents the 15th Assembly District.
Nassau County, the beautiful place we call home, now faces a dangerous proposal from Albany. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration has suggested Glenwood Landing as a location for volatile lithium-ion battery storage facilities.
While the transition to green energy is essential, placing these hazardous facilities in residential areas — without proper safety measures, local input or adherence to zoning laws — poses severe risks to public health and safety. As the legislator in this area, I must voice my strong opposition to this Albany “proposal.” Hochul’s decision to override local zoning laws and push these facilities on Long Island is an alarming overreach of state authority. Local governments must retain the authority to protect their residents and determine what developments are appropriate for their neighborhoods. By bypassing local oversight, something the governor attempts far too often, the state is eroding the democratic process
and undermining the role of local governance.
The so-called Rapid Act, designed to expedite the deployment of green energy infrastructure, is advancing without sufficient consideration of the risks it imposes. As the name suggests, these plans are rapidly being forced on communities. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used for energy storage, present significant fire hazards. When these batteries catch fire, they burn at extremely high temperatures, and conventional firefighting methods are often ineffective. More concerning, these fires release toxic fumes and hazardous chemicals into the air, which pose grave health risks to those nearby. This rapid rush is even more egregious when you consider that the state has not yet released or approved fire safety codes standards for these facilities.
became uncontrollable due to the volatile nature of the batteries. Despite the heroic efforts of local firefighters, the fire could not be extinguished, and burned at temperatures that made traditional firefighting tactics ineffective.
W hen they catch fire, conventional firefighting methods are often ineffectual.
A recent and alarming incident underscores the dangers of these facilities. In January, a massive fire broke out at one of the world’s largest lithium-ion battery storage systems at the Moss Landing Power Plant in Northern California. The blaze, which lasted for days,
The fire also released hazardous chemicals into the air, leading to evacuations of nearby residents and concerns about longterm environmental contamination. Elevated levels of heavy metals were detected as well, causing further alarm over the environmental impact.
This fire, one of the largest and most destructive incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, highlights the grave risks of placing such facilities in densely populated areas like Glenwood Landing. These fires are not rare occurrences; they are an expected and dangerous outcome of improperly sited battery storage facilities.
Our zoning laws should not be treated as bureaucratic obstacles — they are vital tools designed to protect the safety, well-being and character of our communities. I commend and appreciate the Town of Oyster Bay for hearing the
voices of our residents and taking action against Albany’s agenda by implementing a moratorium on the proposal. While this is not a permanent solution, it does allow us to address the safety concerns of these facilities.
The rush to implement green energy solutions should not come at the cost of our safety. While the transition to sustainable energy is essential, lithium-ion battery storage facilities should not be placed in areas ill-suited to house such high-risk projects. If and when these facilities are ready for installation, they must undergo thorough local review and adhere to stringent fire safety codes and zoning laws designed to protect public health and safety.
As a legislator, a resident and a mom, I will continue to fight for the health and safety of Nassau County residents. A simple principle: I wouldn’t want a battery storage facility next to my home, and I don’t want one next to yours, either. While this issue is gaining traction, now is the time to tell your neighbors and make your voice heard in Albany. We don’t want to be reactive on this issue — we want to be proactive in protecting our homes and our communities, so let’s stand together to do so.
Samantha A. Goetz represents Nassau County’s 18th Legislative District.
RokSana
Fax: (516) 569-4942
Web: seacliff.liherald.com glenhead.liherald.com
Recent actions by the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies to remove web pages highlighting the contributions of Black, Hispanic and female veterans raise a critical question: Are we confusing history with diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives? And more important, what does the loss of historical information mean for present and future generations?
The removal of these pages from Arlington National Cemetery’s website, along with thousands of other web pages across government platforms, was carried out to comply with an executive order issued by President Trump.
The order, which aimed to eliminate DEI initiatives in federal programs, mandated that any DEI-related content published between Jan. 20, 2021, and Jan. 19 of this year be either archived or removed. As a result, significant historical records, including those recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of marginalized groups in the U.S. military, have been erased from public view.
The decision reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the distinction between diversity efforts and historical documentation. DEI initiatives are designed to promote fairness, representation and opportunity for marginalized communities. History, on the other hand, is an objective record of the past — one that cannot be rewritten or selec-
tively deleted without serious consequences for society as a whole.
When we remove historical information under the guise of eliminating DEI, we are erasing the stories and experiences that have shaped the nation. The contributions of African American soldiers who fought in segregated units during World War II, the bravery of Hispanic servicemen in the Korean War, and the pioneering achievements of female military officers are not “DEI content.” They are part of the fabric of American history.
By erasing these stories from public platforms, we are denying future generations the opportunity to learn from the struggles and triumphs of those who came before them. We are also depriving historically marginalized communities of the recognition and respect they deserve. History gives us a deeper understanding of our nation’s progress — and its failures. Without it, we risk repeating the mistakes of the past and failing to appreciate the diversity and resilience that define America.
The removal of content highlighting the contributions of marginalized groups does not end DEI; it merely attempts to silence the voices of those who have long fought for recognition and equality in our society. The effort to scrub this content from government websites sets a dangerous precedent. It suggests that historical facts can be elimi-
Our representatives must stand up for Medicaid funding
To the Editor:
On March 7, hundreds gathered at the State Office Building in Hauppauge to advocate for a 7.8 percent targeted increase in Medicaid rates for disability services to address rising costs, ensure fair pay for staff, and stabilize the care system for people with disabilities.
As a father of an adult child with disabilities who relies on Medicaid-supported services, I feel an overwhelming responsibility to advocate for the protection and support of staff, whose roles are crucial in caring for those with disabilities. These significant issues have profound personal and far-reaching effects for families like mine.
For over 25 years, my son Bobby has received exceptional care from the Developmental Disabilities Institute in Smithtown. The dedication and compassion of their staff have greatly enriched his life, helping him accomplish daily tasks. Their work is more than just a job; it is a calling driven by empathy and a commitment to improving lives. These critical services deserve fair compensation and job security.
In addition, the proposed hundreds of billion of dollars in cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental
nated or hidden when they become politically inconvenient. That isn’t the behavior of a free and democratic society.
The loss of historical information has far-reaching implications. For educators and students, online resources serve as vital tools for teaching American history. For researchers and historians, they provide access to primary sources and documentation that help us understand the evolution of social and political movements.
Restoring the content that was removed from Arlington National Cemetery’s website and other federal platforms isn’t just about complying with government policy — it’s about protecting the truth. Historical documentation must be treated as sacred, separate from politics or ideological battles. Federal agencies must prioritize the preservation of historical records, regardless of whether those stories align with the current political environment. Educational institutions, historians and advocacy groups must also work to archive and share information through independent platforms to ensure that those stories are not lost forever.
In a democracy, history belongs to the people — all the people. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard that history, not erase it. Without an honest and complete understanding of our past, we cannot hope to build a more just and equitable future.
Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, are deeply troubling. These programs serve as lifelines, supporting people like my son and often the staff caring for him and his peers, many of whom seek supplemental food support
because of their low-wage status. Cutting funds for these programs is more than an economic decision; it is a moral one that will have devastating consequences for vulnerable populations.
As high school seniors and others contemplate their college plans, it is timely to remind them about the purpose of higher education. This is especially true at a time when there are those who question the value of universities and focus on vocational rather than on advanced education. Critics also tend to focus on the means for learning rather than on its purpose.
ROBERT A. SCOTT
A college education is much more than job prep. It is as much about character development and preparation for civic engagement as it is about preparing for a career. Too many people focus on immediate job placement instead of preparing for a life with the potential for multiple careers.
As Bill Gates once said, jobs are eliminated, but “work” — opportunities for solving problems — expands. So how best can students prepare for a future in which they see themselves as problem-solvers in constantly evolving work settings? That’s the role of colleges and universities.
In 1900, farm employment accounted for nearly 40 percent of all jobs. Today it’s about 10 percent. Technology and new management techniques are the
difference. At the end of World War II, service industries accounted for 10 percent of nonfarm employment, compared with 38 percent for manufacturing. Since the 1970s, the American economy has moved away from producing goods to providing services, and the service sector has accounted for an increasing proportion of jobs and workers. The work necessary for sustainable, civil communities will continue to expand. Technological tools are increasingly available, but create ethical challenges and require educated judgment. AI should be used as a tool, not as a crutch or a substitute for thinking. Work requires information verification, not just data gathering. AI will eliminate jobs, and those graduating from colleges and universities must be prepared for this new world of employment options.
Cing a civilization compatible with its inhabitants’ aspirations and the limitations of the natural environment; teach students to appreciate other cultures; and apply theory to practical problems.
ollege is as much about character development as it is about career prep.
Colleges seek to help students’ transformation into productive citizens and professionals. Cooperative education, internships and service learning all reinforce classroom learning. Students gain the confidence to formulate ideas, take initiative, increase their ability to reason in different modes, solve problems, and develop communication and computational skills as well as imagination, the ability to consider ideas from different angles through exposure to the arts, literature and other cultures.
■ Graduates have lower unemployment rates than those with only a high school diploma. They also report higher job satisfaction and better career prospects.
■ Most graduates view their college education as a good investment.
We know the skills and abilities that organizations want in employees. Beyond technological know-how, they want people who can learn to analyze problems and create ethical solutions — i.e., add value and perform — without AI support. These are the skills and abilities necessary for all work, from corporate to public service to community-based jobs.
The purpose of a college education is to help students advance their knowledge, both general and expert; skills such as writing and speaking; abilities such as analysis and leadership; and values such as respect for others and teamwork. This includes the ability to understand the choices that await them as citizens, consumers, decision-makers, and arbiters of ethical alternatives. The purpose is also is to inspire students to contemplate the meaning of life; help them become capable of build-
I urge our local congressional representatives, including Nick LaLota and Andrew Garbarino, to oppose these cuts. I encourage them to advocate for sustainable funding that prioritizes the well-being of those who depend on these critical support services. An investment now will secure the present and safeguard the future for people like my son.
JOSEPH W. SCHMIDT Board of Directors chair Developmental Disabilities Institute Wantagh
To the Editor:
Nassau County has received $95.5 million from New York state for opioid treatment and awareness, part of the opioid lawsuit settlement. Of that amount, $39.5 million has been awarded. However, awarded does not mean spent. In reality, the county has only spent $3 million of that
$95.5 million.
Meanwhile, 210 residents died of overdoses in 2023. Data for 2024 has not yet been released.
To make matters worse, County Executive Bruce Blakeman has been publicly highlighting the $39.5 million in awarded funds — an impressive figure on its face — while omitting the far less impressive $3 million that has actually been spent.
This lackadaisical approach to deploying lifesaving resources is not only negligent and callous, but also appears to be financially motivated. Since receiving the funds, Nassau County has accrued millions in interest from the unspent balance sitting idle on its books.
What does it say about our county executive that he appears willing to gamble with lives for financial gain? Surely there are more ethical and effective ways to manage the county’s finances — ones that don’t come at the expense of public health.
PETROS KROMMIDAS Baldwin
They learn how to learn on their own as well as in groups. We hope they will learn to think strategically about their lives, even taking a job so they have a base from which to pursue bigger dreams. We also hope they will develop a sense of humor and can laugh at themselves.
The benefits of college graduation are well known:
■ Possessing a degree provides access to a wider array of opportunities.
■ Certain fields in technology, health care and education require a degree.
Just think of the work to be done in a society: clean, affordable and dependable energy sources; reliable, inexpensive mass transportation and infrastructure; secure information systems; effective schools, health care, and fire and flood protection; safe, nourishing and affordable food; affordable housing; clean water and sanitation; peaceful relations among nations; and equal access to the rule of law.
These and other requirements for a sustainable, civil society represent problems to be identified, analyzed and solved — work to be done.
Dr. Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and co-author of “Letters to Student: What it Means to be a College Graduate” (Roman & Littlefield, 2024).
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