Seaford Herald 03-27-2025 by Richner Communications, Inc

The Seaford School District’s 2024 Teachers of the Year were honored at the American Legion’s annual ceremony on March 19. From left were teachers Christine Caserta, Roman Wojcik, Maureen Dolan and Jillian Copius.

Celebrating dedication to education Legion honors students and teachers at annual ceremony

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Continuing a decades-long tradition of fostering patriotism in younger generations, the Seaford American Legion honored local students for their patriotic essays last week while also recognizing the winners of the 2024 Teacher of the Year awards.

The Legion hosted its annual Americanism essay contest on March 19 at Edwin Welch Jr. Post 1132, in memory of George Murphy, a past commander who died in 2015. In partnership with the Seaford School District and St. William the Abbot School, the contest invites fourth- and fifth-graders at Seaford Harbor and Seaford Manor elementary schools and St. William the Abbot to reflect on America through their writing.

According to Legion chaplain and essay contest chair Charles Wroblewski, the com-

petition has been a Seaford tradition for over 50 years. This year’s theme was “Why I am proud to be an American.”

Students gathered at the post with their family members and friends for the awards ceremony, at which the top three essayists in each grade from each school were presented with trophies.

At Seaford Harbor, the fourth-grade honorees were the winner, Jake Galofaro, Anastasia Stambolis, in second place, and Eva Taylor, in third. The fifth-grade winner was Emerson Hutchinson, with Ashley Jiang in second place and Hudson Schneider in third.

At Seaford Manor, Danny Cronin finished first among the fourth-graders, with Emma Palumbo in second and Matthew Calvacca in third. In fifth grade, Michael Sagnelli, Samuel Englert and Jack Fagan finished first through third, respectively.

At St. William the Abbot, the fourth-grade

ConTinueD on pAge 4

Fundraiser for sports complex set for April 3

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

A memorial committee is preparing to host its final fundraiser to support the creation of a memorial complex in honor of Joshua Encarnacion, a student at Mandalay Elementary School in Wantagh who died in September 2023 after battling cancer.

The “Fight to the Finish” fundraiser will be held on April 3 at Mulcahy’s Pub & Concert Hall in Wantagh, where attendees can enjoy an open bar, food, live music, and raffles, while contributing to the creation of the Joshua Encarnacion Memorial Sports Complex at Mandalay.

There’s been a lot of people lending a hand.

CHRIS ENCARNACIoN

Joshua’s father

Joshua died at age 11 after battling alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare cancer that affects soft tissue. In the wake of his death, his family, Wantagh PTAs and community members united to form the committee, dedicated to building a space that will honor his memory and love for sports.

“People can expect a really good night remembering a kid who touched a lot of people,” he said. “It’ll be a good night to come out and celebrate this last ‘Fight to the Finish.’”

Early last year, the committee contacted the Wantagh School District to propose renovating the outdoor basketball court at Mandalay and renaming it the Joshua Encarnacion Memorial Court to pay tribute to his memory. Joshua was a popular student at Mandalay and had a lot of friends who miss him, according to Byrne.

Byrne said the committee has raised around $500,000 for the project and needs another $100,000 to cover the estimated $600,000 cost. The original plan for the memorial court has expanded to include an 11U turf field and two basketball courts, reflecting Joshua’s passion for sports. He was a foursport athlete who loved basket-

The event is shaping up to be a community-building event honoring Joshua’s life, according to Michael Byrne, a committee member and a friend of the Encarnacion family.

Charles Shaw/Herald

ConTinueD on pAge 9

Three Things To know: BeeTlejuice junior

A funny and frightful musical coming to Seaford

If you say the name three times, you might just find yourself in the audience of Seaford Middle School’s

upcoming production of “Beetlejuice Junior.” A cast of 65 students has been rehearsing for months for the

n A fresh take on a familiar story n A cast full of talent

“Beetlejuice Junior” is a brand-new adaptation for schools, only released last summer. Director Barbara Sherwin chose it because of its relevance, noting that the “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” movie also premiered recently. The show features lively music and quirky characters, making it a fun experience for audiences.

Eighth grader Max DiMola stars as Beetlejuice, returning to the stage after playing Simba in The Lion King. Seventh grader Samantha Juan plays Lydia in her first-ever musical, hoping to boost her confidence and stage presence. The production also features Michael Redash as Charles, Gia Lennon as Delia, Christopher Falta as Adam, and Teaghan Clancy as Barbara.

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two evening performances on March 28 and 29. Here are three things to know about the show:

n A big production behind the scenes

With a total of about 90 students involved, the show is a massive collaboration. Choreographer Carly Spadafora and stage manager Dan Krueger support Ms. Sherwin in bringing the production to life, along with a crew of 25 students handling lights, sets, and more.

“Beetlejuice Junior” will be performed at 7 p.m. on March 28 and 29 in the Seaford Middle School gymnasium. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and can be purchased in advance by emailing Ms. Sherwin at bsherwin@seaford.k12.ny.us.

About 90 Seaford Middle School students are involved in this year’s production of “Beetlejuice Junior” between the cast and crew.

From learning how to build a campfire to building your own business, as a Girl Scout you’ll participate in tons of diverse, confidence-building activities that will help you throughout the rest of your life.

Scan the QR code or visit gsnc.org/join

Courtesy Seaford School District photo

neighbors

Congregation Beth Tikvah celebrates Purim

Congregation Beth Tikvah in Wantagh celebrated Purim on Sunday, March 16, with music, costumes, and traditional festivities. The event began with the reading of the Book of Esther, with attendees, including Hebrew School children, dressed in costume.

A Purim Ball followed, featuring live music from the CBT Band, a children’s Purim parade, and a magician’s performance. Guests enjoyed singing, dancing, holiday foods, raffles, and prizes. The celebration brought together families and community members of all ages.

Purim, which means “lots,” commemorates the Jewish people’s survival as told in the Book of Esther and is marked by joy, generosity, and unity.

Photos courtesy Ab Roher

Hebrew School students participating in a play, written by Rabbi Moshe Weisblum and Hebrew School Director Dalia Ross.

Congregants Susan, left, and Jody Wald enjoying Purim while listening to the reading of the Megillah.

Fran Rosenberg, left, with Rabbi Moshe Weisblumreading from the biblical scroll of Esther and Ron Schwartz.

Congregants Shelley, left, and Bob Cooper enjoying the holiday of Purim.

Hebrew School Director Dalia Ross dressed for the celebration of Purim.

Seaford Legion recognizes dedication to education

winner was Candace Alburez, followed by Catalina Zumba and Cash Gorelsky. In fifth grade, Gemma Shea was awarded first place, followed by Milany Alvarez and Landon Calagiuri.

Wroblewski described Seaford as a “tight-knit” community, added that he and several other Legion members had grown up in the district, and acknowledged the teachers in the audience for their dedication.

Legion Commander Terence Murphy described Seaford as an ideal place for children to grow up. He reminisced about riding bikes through Tackapausha Preserve, walking along the stream from Merrick Road to Sunrise Highway, and playing basketball on the courts at Seaford High School.

“It really is almost a dream to have grown up in Seaford,” Murphy said, “where it was small enough that you knew everybody’s name, but large enough that you could experience things that kids should experience.”

After the trophy presentation, the Legion honored its choices for Teachers of the Year. Educators from each of the schools were honored: Roman Wojcik, from Seaford Harbor; Jillian Copius, from Seaford Manor; Maureen Dolan, from the middle school; and Christine Caserta, from the high school. Each was presented with a plaque by their school’s principal, who had nominated the teacher for the award.

Wojcik, who teaches fourth grade, said he was humbled and honored to receive the award. “This recognition is something that I will cherish forever,” he said. “Teaching is a calling, not just a job, and it requires passion, patience and a dedication to shaping the minds and hearts of future generations.”

Copius, a fifth-grade teacher, said she was grateful for the award, and had attended the ceremony every year since she hired by the district in 2016. She

Seaford High School’s 2024 teacher of the Year, Christine Caserta, spoke of the rewarding aspects of her job, which included the freedom to explore ideas that promote an inclusive classroom environment.

expressed her pride in the community and in her fellow teachers. A Seaford native and a 2005 graduate of the district, she said she was fortunate to grow up in a safe, nurturing community that helped shape her into the teacher she is today.

“My life’s path has taken me in many different directions, but at each turn, I’ve learned something,” Copius said. “Where we end up is certainly important, but it’s the journey that teaches us the lessons we must be willing to learn.”

Middle School Principal Raphael Morey described Dolan, a sixth-grade English and social studies teacher, as a dedicated educator who brings out the best in her students.

Accepting What Is

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”.

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“Every day you come in, you have an opportunity to teach and shape lives,” Dolan said, “and the middle school is kind of a crazy place. It’s super adventurous, but I love every day of teaching.”

Seaford High Principal Nicole Schnabel presented the award to Caserta, a speech therapist, praising her for listening to her students and recognizing their potential. Caserta said that one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is the freedom to explore ideas that promote an inclusive classroom environment.

“Every day, I strive to ensure that each student feels valued and heard regardless of their abilities or challenges,” Caserta said. “It’s a privilege to witness their growth and to be part of their journey.”

News briefs

B’Nai Torah to honor Rabbi Bar-Nahum

Temple B’nai Torah will honor Rabbi Daniel Bar-Nahum during the weekend of April 4-5, 2025.

Rabbi Bar-Nahum, ordained in 2012 by Hebrew Union College, began his Long Island tenure as assistant rabbi, then rabbi, at Temple Emanu-El of East Meadow. He assumed the pulpit at Temple B’nai Torah, in Wantagh, following its merger in 2018.

He has volunteered at the MexicanTexas border, feeding migrants with Team Brownsville and World Central Kitchen. He also helped transform an

unused playground at Temple B’nai Torah into a giving garden run by dedicated community volunteers. Following the Oct. 7 attacks, he facilitated the collection of thousands of dollars in donations, which he helped distribute in Israel during a solidarity mission in December 2023.

A gala dinner in his honor is planned for the evening of April 5. For reservations and more information, contact Ellen Kraut at JAK3555@aol.com.

— Jordan Vallone

Charles Shaw/Herald

SPORTS

Hofstra softball shows positive signs

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.”

Junior shortstop Alanna Morse is a two-way standout for the Pride.

“The

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WOMEN’S HISTORY

MONTH

Helping those who haven’t been heard find voices

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.

HELEN DORADO-ALESSI

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.

An advocate for the transgender community

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.

Community rallies to honor Joshua’s memory

ball, soccer, wrestling and lacrosse, according to his father, Chris Encarnacion.

“To see the court expand and have more options for people in the community to utilize is amazing,” Chris Encarnacion said.

Byrne said committee members have expressed appreciation for the support they have received from the Wantagh community. Local businesses, such as Lighthouse Diner in Wantagh, have stepped up as sponsors, while Lifestyles of Wantagh pitched in with a significant contribution. Wantagh/Seaford Police Activity League and Catholic Youth Organization of Long Island have also been major supporters of the project. Additionally, the committee received a generous grant from Nassau County Legislator Michael Giangregorio, a key contributor, Byrne said.

“There’s been a lot of people lending a hand,” Encarnacion said. “We have a team that’s been working day and night to get things done.”

Special guests expected to attend the fundraiser include Chris Weidman, a former UFC middleweight champion and Long Island native; musician Mike Delguidice; and New York Knicks alumnus John Wallace.

The event is being held in partnership with the John Theissen Children’s Foun-

dation, a local nonprofit that supports children with cancer and other illnesses. Encarnacion described Theissen as “an amazing human being” who has been there for the family since Joshua’s death. In September 2023, Mulcahy’s hosted a memorial event in the boy’s honor, drawing nearly 1,500 attendees. Encarnacion said Theissen played a key role in organizing the Sept. 2023 event and covering its expenses.

“He’s just a great human being,” Encarnacion said, “and to have him involved with the fundraiser is amazing and a great part of what we’re doing.”

Byrne said around 150 tickets have been sold for the April 3 fundraiser, as of press time, adding that he would love to see more than 300 people attend the event. Encarnacion said he’s expecting friends and family to come together for one last push to build a court in his son’s name.

“This could not have been completed without the help of the team for Joshua, the people that loved him, a gentleman like John Theissen and the help from all the good people in the community,” Encarnacion said. “We’re just super grateful.”

The Fight to the Finish fundraiser will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. at Mulcahy’s, 3232 Railroad Ave.

Tickets are $75 for adults and $35 for kids. For more information, email joshua56memorialcourt@gmail.com.

Courtesy Mike Byrne

a memorial committee will host the f ight to the f inish fundraiser on april 3 at mulcahy’s pub in Wantagh, featuring food, live music and raffles to support the creation of the Joshua encarnacion memorial Sports Complex at mandalay elementary School.

A sweet as candy celebration for Purim

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

The Chabad Center of Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh celebrated the holiday of Purim with an event that transported attendees to Candyland.

Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from Haman, who was planning to kill all the Jews in the ancient Persian Empire.

The story of Purim is recounted in the Book of Esther. The central figures in the Purim story are Queen Esther, who was a Jewish woman married to the Persian king, and Mordecai, her cousin. Haman, the villain of the story, was the royal vizier who plotted to destroy the Jewish people.

Purim usually falls in late February or March on the Gregorian calendar. It’s marked by several customs and traditions including Reading the Book of Esther, both in the evening and the morning of Purim, sending gifts of food to friends and family, eating a festive meal, often including triangular pastries called hamantaschen, which are filled with sweet fillings such as poppy seeds or fruit preserves, and dressing up in costumes.

The Candyland theme at the Chabad’s celebration was embraced by many members of the community — although there were plenty of other creative costumes to be seen around the celebration as well.

Families has the option to take part in the Purim party on March 14 at the Merrick Golf Course Clubhouse.

Whether families came dressed up to celebrate, or just wanted to join in on the Purim fun, the holiday was joyously received by members of the MerrickBellmore-Wantagh Jewish community.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

The Chabad Center of Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh celebrated the holiday of Purim at Candyland-themed celebration. Rabbi Shimon Kramer, with his wife Chanie, and their children at the March 14 event.

Pina Polansky protected young princesses Talia, 5, and Eliana, 4.

Joshua Babayer, 8, Arelia Babayer, 3, Ethan Keselman, 11, Jonathan Keselman, 8, and Noam Babayer, 7, enjoyed sweet treats for Purim.

Cheers for Purim! Aaron Polansky, David Nanal and Rabbi Kramer.

Joanne Skop with Seth Lehner, 4,

Herald publications win seven state awards

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.”

Courtesy NYPA Conference

More than 20 members of the Herald Community Media team attended the annual New York Press Association Spring Conference in Saratoga Springs March 20-21.

Jeff Bessen/Herald photos Long Beach reporter Angelina Zingariello won first place for Feature Story, Division 4.

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A closer look at the Propel NY Energy project

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

The Propel NY Energy project is aiming to revo-

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.

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.

3

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.

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.

5

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.

Taylor Dayne has come far from Baldwin

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

Taylor Dayne has been singing songs from her heart for over three decades since her first hit, her debut single “Tell It to My Heart” in 1987. Recognized as one of the few artists in history to successfully crossover into multiple genres including Pop, Dance, R&B, Adult Contemporary and Rock, she has earned three Grammy nominations, an American Music Award and was inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2012. In honor of Women’s History Month, Dayne spoke with the Long Island Herald on everything from growing up in Baldwin and her start on Long Island to how she rose up in the industry despite challenges of the time and most recently found her strength to overcome and become a survivor of colon cancer, coming out stronger and with more gratitude and purpose than ever before.

Herald: What are your thoughts on having been inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame?

Dayne: It’s quite an honor to understand the impact we’ve had on the music industry. I was born in New York City, raised in the Bronx and on Long Island. I went to Baldwin Junior and Senior High, and Long Island is part of the true fabric of who I am. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for all the live music places where I got to perform and literally work out and become the artist I am. Live music was so alive here. I got to really do my 10,000 hours that way. There wasn’t a club we couldn’t play live. There’s such talent out of Long Island. You have Lou Reed, Patty Benatar, the great Billy Joel- it’s just enormous.

Herald: What are some places in and around Baldwin that you remember first playing?

Dayne: There were two very memorable places. One of them in Freeport was called The Right Track Inn, and I can’t even tell you how many groundbreaking artists came from there. There was also a rehearsal studio in Baldwin where Joan Jett was rehearsing and the Stray Cats, and I was like one day I’m going to be in that rehearsal studio. My first bands ended up rehearsing there.

Herald: What has given you strength over the years to truly give your all at your live shows?

Dayne: Life has its ups and downs and its challenges. Everybody has challenges, and especially after battling colon cancer, I am a woman up there on stage who knows her purpose even more and is ever grateful. The gratitude is real. This is not an industry for the weak and I am grateful to be on stage singing, living my dream and doing what I love. When I’m on stage, it’s 100 percent. To me, I’m telling a story. It’s like a play; there’s a beginning, middle and end. The story must start, must take you there on the journey and then resolve, and hopefully you feel as complete as I do when I leave. At our live shows, we’re transferring energy, exploring energy, trading energy and we’re also taking it to another frequency- that’s the point. I’m raising the bar, raising the frequency so that I’m doing the right work. I’m doing God’s work. I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing and that’s why it gets better and better.

Herald: I’m sure you have had many career highlights, are there a couple of moments that have stood out?

Dayne: A highlight actually happened this past week. As everyone knows, the west coast got slammed recently, many of my friends and many businesses are devastated. We have done a lot of work with first responders and mental health work. We did an event in Santa Barbara with One805. I can’t tell you how many

“Long Island is part of the true fabric of who I am,” says

people came out from Michael McDonald to Kenny Loggins, Darius Rucker and Macy Gray. We all just performed. To see 55 station chiefs and first responders watch this and to able to share like that brings tears to my eyes. Watching us all come together and

raise money for mental health needs for these first responders and their families was amazing. Because like I said, life is filled with challenges. There have always been moments. There are moments when I’m sitting in a restaurant and Stevie Wonder is sitting across from me and I go and hug him and we talk. There’s always that, and there’s career highlights, some that I’m really tapped into and remember. I do have to say though, the best is yet to come.

Herald: In honor of Women’s History Month, do you have any advice regarding resilience, overcoming odds and pursuing a dream, that you would like to share with our women readership, in particular?

Dayne: Well, I’m a poster child of overcoming challenges. In our industry, at the time, sexual harassment existed and you just had to keep going. You have to have a tenacious state about you and you have to have grace as a woman. Sometimes I’ve fallen through the cracks and sometimes I was defeated. You know, it’s a man’s world, well boy was it a man’s industry! But at the same time, you find your way. I think being tenacious is something I learned a long time ago from my mother- the good, the bad and the ugly of it. You can’t give up, and that’s what I call ambition. There’s this thing inside me that’s so driven and it’s certainly changed from fame now to recognition to understanding what your purpose is. I’ve spent my entire career, almost 40 years, really evolving to where I am now, and I will continue to evolve.

Herald: And what do you have coming up?

Dayne: Musically we’re starting to get busy again. I’m heading internationally for touring at the moment, going to Germany next. As far as new music, the collaborations are starting. We’re putting things together.

To learn more about Taylor Dayne and her upcoming music and shows, follow her @therealtaylordayne or visit taylordayne.com.

Courtesy Photographer Steve Leung, LIMEHOF

Taylor Day has been a force in the music industry for nearly 40 years, since her first hit, “Tell It to My Heart.”

Courtesy Sequoia Emanuelle

Dayne, who has faced challenges including cancer.

STEPPING OUT

‘Little’ ﬁlms with a big heart

In the spotlight at Asbury Short Film Concert

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.

South Shore Symphony

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.

Courtesy Asbury Shortst

Three extreme situations are actually the same in “Voice Over.”

“Anomaly” stars John Romeo as a detective investigating the work of a suspicious magician.

Your Neighborhood Egyptomania in the 1920s

Mercy Hospital offers cardiac screening

THE

The Wallflowers

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.

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.

NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!

You only have one heart. Protect it with a free cardiac screening at Mercy Hospital, Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Getting your coronary calcium score scan can save your life. A coronary calcium score is like a “mammogram” for the heart to screen for blockage(s). This simple, non-invasive test can indicate coronary artery disease before the onset of symptoms or heart attacks. The scan does not require IV or Oral CT contrast. Limited appointments available in 15 minute increments. Last appointment will be at 1:45 p.m. No insurance necessary. 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. Radiology & Imaging (adjacent to Emergency Department). To register, call (516) 62-MERCY (63729).

Rabbi Margie Cella speaks at Congregation

Beth Tikvah

Congregation Beth Tikvah hosts a free presentation by Rabbi Margie Cella, Sunday, March 30, noon, in the social hall. Rabbi Cella discusses her book, “Hindsight is 2020: Torah Lessons for a Turbulent Time. Rabbi Cella, who converted to Judaism in 1982, is a speaker dedicated to Torah study and observance. With brunch.Those interested must RSVP by March 21 by calling the congregation office at (516) 785-2445. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh

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

Bingo at Temple B’nai Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts a fun-filled bingo session, every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and every Thursday, 7:15 -10 p.m. Prizes, progressive games and refreshments available. 2900 Jerusalem Ave., in Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 2212370.

Seaford United Methodist Church

Lenten service

Seaford United Methodist Church hosts a Lenten service, Wednesday, April 9 , 7 p.m. This is part of a series of services held at United Methodist churches in the area leading up to Easter. The community is invited to attend. 2160 Washington Ave.

Celebrate Holi

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. 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.

Fight to the finish fundraiser

Support the Joshua Encarnacion Memorial Sports Complex at the “Fight to the Finish” fundraiser, Thursday, April 3, 6-10 p.m., at Mulcahy’s Pub & Concert Hall in Wantagh. The event, in partnership with the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, features live performances by Mike DelGuidice, special guests including former UFC fighter Chris Weidman and NY Knicks alumni John Wallace, an open bar, food, and raffles. Tickets are $75 for adults and $35 for kids. Proceeds benefit the memorial sports complex at Mandalay Elementary School. For tickets, visit zeffy.com. 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh.

Game time

Enjoy Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday, noon-4 p.m., at Congregation Beth Tikvah. $5 contribution, no outside food, as snacks and drinks will be supplied. Bring your games and cards, lessons available. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh. For more info, email mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or call (516) 785-2445.

Having an event?

STEM Explorers

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.

On Exhibit

Highlights include sampling the science of molecular gastronomy at work 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. Museum Row, Garden City. Visit licm.org or call (516) 224-5800 for more.

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.

Hempstead House tour

April 13

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.

Harbor students embody Seaford Scholar traits

The 10 Seaford Scholar traits have become part of daily life at Seaford Harbor Elementary School. From bulletin boards to classroom lessons to routine conversations, the characteristics are fully present in the building and beyond.

In the summer of 2023, the Seaford Scholar profile was adopted throughout the district to identify the qualities of successful students. The 10 traits – communicators, flexible, humorous, innovators, mindful, networkers, principled, reflective, resilient and risk takers – have become well-known to students and teachers.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO. 21527

RESOLUTION NO.208-2025

Adopted: March 11, 2025

Councilmember Muscarella offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS

WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 203-2025, adopted February 25th, 2025, a public hearing was duly held on the 11th day of March, 2025, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits

issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT

RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons:

ELMONT

LUCILLE AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 88 feet north of the north curbline of Theodora Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-36/25)

SEWANEE AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 386 feet south of the south curbline of Atherton Avenue, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-24/25)

SEAFORD

LOCUST AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 275 feet west of the west curbline of Guildford Park Drive, west for a distance of 15 feet.

(TH-1/25)

UNIONDALE

BRAXTON AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 188 feet east of the east curbline of Uniondale Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-34/25)

WANTAGH

MCDONALD AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 150 feet north of the north curbline of Campbell Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-33/25)

and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

(NR) FLORAL PARK

239TH STREET - west side, starting at a point 110 feet north of the north curbline of Superior Road, north for a distance of 16 feet.

(TH-580/24 - 2/4/25)

(TH-580(B)/24)

MERRICK HARVARD AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 298 feet east of the east curbline of Central Parkway, east fora distance of 20 feet.

(TH-260/15 - 9/8/15)

(TH-31/25)

(NR) WESTBURY WESTLEY ROAD - south side, starting at a point 138 feet east of the east curbline of Fairfield Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-332/20 - 1/5/21)

(TH-47/25) ; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting. The foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Schneider and adopted upon roll call as follows: AYES: SIX (6)

AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 16-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held March 11th, 2025 , by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 16-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 16-2025, amending Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.

Dated: March 11, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 152429

“It’s infused in everything that we do,” Harbor Principal Jennifer Bisulca said. “The students are using the language in their reflective moments and that means they’re really understanding the purpose.”

Each month, the school focuses on one of the traits. For March, it is risk taker. Bisulca explained that teachers have emphasized how to take responsible risks, such as playing with different classmates at recess or taking on a task independently for the first time. Trying something new, she added, is part of having a growth mindset.

A bulletin board in the cafeteria has three laminated paper stars for every class in the school. Teachers recognize the students who best exemplify the

monthly trait by putting their names on the stars.

Third grade teacher Katharine Black said this has created a lot of excitement, as students strive to live the Seaford Scholar traits and make it onto the board. The display was created with the help of student council members.

Black noted that the bulletin board shows that Harbor School has wholeheartedly embraced the Seaford Scholar profile.

“It’s a nice way to get the whole school involved,” she said, noting that it highlights students from kindergarten to fifth grade.

In her class, Black has her scholars of the month choose the students for the following month. They must explain why they selected these classmates as representatives of that trait.

Black and Bisulca are joined on the districtwide Seaford Scholar committee by fifth grade teacher Kerry Hansen and psychologist Meghan Harrington. They serve as a resource for teachers looking to find new and innovative ways of promoting the traits in their classrooms.

Many teachers use ParentSquare to announce their Seaford Scholars of the month to all families, and explain why they were chosen. This builds the homeschool connection, Bisulca said, and creates talking points for the home.

Seaford church to close pre-K program after 60 years

The pre-K program at the United Methodist Church of Seaford will close after more than 60 years of operation at the end of the school year.

The decision came after a nearly unanimous vote by the church’s board of trustees on March 2 to decline a contract with Universal Pre-K to address ongoing sustainability concerns with the Seaford Community Preschool.

“The preschool is absolutely devastated, we have offered to take on full responsibility for the building, the maintenance, to pay rent, to pay donations to keep our preschool running.” said Jeanine Cama, the director of the preschool. “We are devastated.”

Cama added that the school’s staff is willing to do whatever it takes to continue the preschool’s operation. However, should they no longer be welcome at the church they are “working tirelessly to secure another location”

Church officials cited a mix of an aging congregation, limited ministerial capacity, and insufficient financial resources to support the preschool, as their concerns for keeping the program open, according to News 12, who also reported that the building that houses the childcare ministry is offered to the community for free.

The preschool, located at 2160 Wash-

The pre-K program at the United Methodist Church of Seaford will close after more than 60 years of operation at the end of the school year.

ington Ave., currently serves about 100 students and offers programs for kids ages 2.5 to 4 years old as well as a summer camp. The closure will displace 100 families and lay off over 25 staff members, according to a Facebook post from the school.

The church did not respond to requests for comment as the Herald went to print.

— Luke Feeney

NOES: NONE (0) 152432

Courtesy Seaford School District

Seaford Harbor Elementary School third graders Ava Harrington and Nicholas Schenone were recognized from their class as Seaford Scholars of the month and recognized on a schoolwide bulletin board.

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The permit is taking forever, Part 2

Q. I’m waiting months for a permit and they keep asking for added notes and plan changes, but not all at once. It’s a complete runaround. Why is this happening? My business is losing money and I’m losing patience.

A. Continuing from two weeks ago, people often have unrealistic expectations of the review process. When plans are submitted, the process begins with assigning an application designation. Many departments have a large backlog of applications, which means that they will often get to yours in the order it came in. There are the applications that jump ahead of the line for various reasons, from medical emergencies to fire repair, decisions made by economic development criteria from higher up the government chain, etc.

I’m often asked about who the client can talk to in order to speed things up. This sends a message to me that the whole review process is about to slow down even more. From experience, I reply that the applicant can “try whatever method they want, but be careful.” If someone actually does skip the line, I am aware that it may backfire, because pressuring plan reviewers can sometimes lead to delays and friction when the reviewer kicks the plans back with objections that make the owner insist that the “architect should have known this.”

Objections may seem purposeful, but because they’re legitimate, the application is on hold, and takes pressure off the reviewer. Pressuring the reviewers is not recommended. Architects are burdened enough with never knowing whether they should add all kinds of notes to the plans, or when to keep things simpler. For example, some reviewers want reprints of building code sections on the plans, only to find that another reviewer wants those same notes removed from the plans, causing further delays, to put the researched code notes on plans, and then delays in revising plans afterward. It’s a lose/lose situation guaranteed to cause further delay, but “that’s the way it is.”

There are also delays caused by the fact that your approval process may involve your local jurisdiction, separate review by the fire marshal’s office at the county level, review by the engineering department of your local government and possibly the county department of public works if the property in question is on a county roadway. You may also be asking for something proposed to occupy the building that requires a “change of use” approval, with a zoning case that may add months and even years to the process.

I recently walked with a dentist up and down a commercial district street, and we looked in the windows of three locations the dentist was interested in. Placards on the windows showed announcements for zoning hearings from two to four years ago. All of the businesses were still empty. What does that possibly tell you? There may be inadequate parking or drainage issues, previous open permits not resolved, etc. The process isn’t simple, and you must be prepared for the course it may take. Good luck!

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opinionS

NUMC’s patients and staff deserve serious leadership

“V

ictory has a hundred fathers,” President John F. Kennedy famously responded when the public wanted to know whom to blame for the Bay of Pigs debacle, while “defeat is an orphan.”

But not always. Take the financial debacle that is the Nassau University Medical Center. Its parentage as a health care institution on the brink of collapse could not be clearer: an inept board of directors appointed by an unserious county executive in partnership with a subservient county legislative majority, completely not up to the task of managing a hospital whose complicated and challenging core mission is to provide health care to Nassau County’s most vulnerable residents.

The only long-term solution to NUMC’s leadership crisis is for our governor and locally elected state officials — who are already connected to the state’s health care budgeting and regulatory ecosystem — to appoint a majority of NUMC’s governing board of the Nassau Health Care Corporation, which

Aincludes NUMC, the A. Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility and other divisions.

The numbers tell the story, and they don’t lie.

and financial consultants. But NUMC’s board couldn’t do even that.

ANHCC began 2024 anticipating ending the year $97 million in the hole — a staggering sum for an institution expecting less than $600 million in revenue. Numbers released at its board meeting in early December showed it closing out 2024 over $158 million in the red — 63 percent worse than planned. In 2024 it spent 18 percent more than it received in revenue.

nd so do Nassau County taxpayers, who are on the hook for $85 million in debt.

Additionally, NUMC owes over $400 million in unpaid health insurance premiums for its employees, a debt that increases by about $7 million each month.

Indeed, the board and management couldn’t even make a serious application to the state for emergency financial relief. The state offered NUMC nearly $84 million if it would, among other things, produce a detailed five-year transformation plan; commit to conducting a bona fide, professional search for a new chief executive (the current interim CEO is the hospital’s former inhouse lawyer); and provide accurate and up-to-date information on its highestpaid employees and its outside lobbying

At a town hall-style event last March with NUMC employees, a hospital worker afraid of losing her job asked the chair if NUMC would comply with the state’s conditions for receiving the aforementioned $84 million in emergency aid. His response? “I’m going to give you a real simple answer — no.”

Instead, in December, NUMC’s chairman hastily added a resolution to the board’s agenda to install the current interim CEO as the permanent CEO for a five-year term, with a 66 percent raise, to $750,000 a year, retroactive to her time as interim CEO. (She ultimately settled for $550,000.)

The chair called those challenging his obstinacy “idiotic” — people “who want a gimp with a ball in their mouth to do what they say.” He derided other candidates whom he purportedly interviewed for the CEO role as “fat old men.” (Age discrimination in employment is illegal.) These antics only scratch the surface of the chair’s inappropriate conduct, including profanitylaced tirades at public meetings.

Here is where we have to ask ourselves, to borrow from Shakespeare: Whence cam’st thou, unworthy board?

Or, in President Kennedy’s phrasing, who fathered this failure of a board? This answer, too, lies in numbers. By statute, the county executive and the County Legislature’s majority caucus effectively appoint 12 of NUMC’s 15 board members — they either appoint them directly or the governor does so solely upon their recommendation. The county executive also chooses the chair. And, of critical importance at this moment of institutional crisis, the board’s appointment of a CEO is subject to the approval of the county executive. Make no mistake: while Long Island has had its share of natural disasters, NUMC’s is entirely man-made. Its board can’t govern; its management can’t manage. And if NUMC goes under, that would be a real disaster for the nearly 300,000 patients a year who rely on its services, NUMC’s 3,500 dedicated employees, and Nassau County taxpayers, who guarantee about $85 million in outstanding NUMC debt and count on NUMC to provide health care services for our correction system and numerous other programs. It’s time to give NUMC the serious and sober governance it needs to survive. Let’s hope the upcoming legislative session brings NUMC’s patients and employees — and taxpayers — this much-needed reform.

Rory Lancman is vice chair of the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority.

Some thoughts on books, privilege and girlhood

s an avid reader, I’ve always had a fond place in my heart for historical fiction and period pieces, but I enjoy exploring a number of genres. Toward the end of 2024 and so far this year, I’ve found myself gravitating toward women-centric contemporary fiction and comingof-age novels, which would normally imply that they feature teenagers or young-adult characters and themes, but I think their impact is broader. We’re constantly changing and growing, and whether we come to realizations about life at 15 or 55, they impact our sense of self.

I’ve often said that the best writers are also the best readers, and as a young woman navigating the craziness of life, I’ve found comfort in books that showcase both the hardships, and the joys, of girlhood. There is so much pressure these days to adhere to societal standards — which can vary so greatly depending on whom you’re talking to — and not enough conversations about

what’s actually important to modern, up-and-coming women. Everything we want for ourselves, and every decision we make, is so important.

fort in knowing that the struggles of young women aren’t unique to our culture, but rather, are shared by many.

SMarch is Women’s History Month, and I considered just rattling off a number of my favorite empowering reads, but I realized I could never narrow down the list. So instead I’m switching gears, and homing in on a recent read of mine, the young adult novel “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” by Angeline Boulley.

This was my first exposure to Native American literature. The book’s protagonist, Daunis Fontaine, is a biracial high school senior who lives in a mostly indigenous community near an Ojibwe reservation in Northern Michigan. The Ojibwe are a large Native group in the Great Lakes region of the U.S. and Canada. While the book is largely about a drug-related scandal that wreaks havoc in Fontaine’s Native community, it also conveys so many important undertones relating to her culture and womanhood. Full of twists and turns, it kept me on my toes, and left me with an understanding of a culture I wasn’t familiar with and a sense of com-

ome days, it’s so hard to be a woman that I wonder if we’re heading backward.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve thought a lot about the concept of privilege because of another book, “Difference Matters,” by Brenda J. Allen, which I read for a class I’m taking through Stony Brook University. Allen crafts meaningful observations about various social groups, and effectively communicates why and how our differences matter in fascinating ways. She defines privilege as “unacknowledged entitlement that one receives,” and in a series of exercises, she encourages readers to think about the things in their lives that have given them privilege.

I’ll be the first to admit that some days, it is so hard to be a woman. The negative rhetoric, and the legal moves that are stripping women in the United States of rights they previously had, sometimes make me wonder if we’re heading backward. Despite those doubts, I am also so proud to be a woman — one with a voice, and drive, and dreams that I know I will work hard to achieve.

Daunis Fontaine has a voice, drive, and dreams, too. As do Rocky, the middle-aged, comical protagonist in Catherine Newman’s novel “Sandwich”; Caroline Ferriday, a real person whose story is told in Martha Hall Kelly’s “Lilac Girls”; and Isabelle Rossignol, a young woman who is part of the French resistance in World War II in Kristin Hannah’s work of historical fiction, “The Nightingale.”

I’ve listed a few additional reads of mine to make this point: I am so privileged to have had access to these works — to read and think about things with free will — and to be able take the time to ponder what they mean to me, and hopefully to other women, too.

The weight of girlhood is heavy, but so is its strength. Reading these stories has reinforced what I’ve always known to be true — that women’s voices, whether in fiction or in real life, hold immense power. The privilege of having access to these narratives is one I don’t take lightly, and as I continue to learn and grow, I hope to carry that same power into the spaces I occupy. Because every woman’s story deserves to be told, and more important, heard.

Jordan Vallone is a senior editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? jvallone@liherald.com.

History should not be a political casualty

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-

letters

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.

opinions Preparing for real work, not just a job

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.

CThe 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.

ing 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-

Letters

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

Why is all that opioid money sitting idle?

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. h owever, 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 e xecutive 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

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).