Continued on

Continued from Page 1 souni said. “To that end, although I am honored to hold this gavel … I hope never to use it.”

Berkowitz, who had been president since 2006, will continue to serve as a trustee.

“I will certainly do my part, just not as president in the coming year,” she said. “It’s time for a change for the board, and I realize for myself.”

District Superintendent Teresa Prendergast also attended the meeting. She off ered thanks to the schools’ faculty and staff and gave an assessment of student learning progress during a year spent adjusting to life with coronavirus.

“When you think about some of the challenges that other school districts faced, I feel quite confi dent in stating that there was no academic learning losses for our students,” Prendergast said. “Social and emotional components were also available to meet their needs as well as the needs of their family.”

Trustees changed more than their seats on the board. The district’s policy on bullying and harassment also got an adjustment, courtesy of an act signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in 2019 that clarifi es discrimination based on race including hairstyles or other associated traits.

The amendment outlines characteristics that bullying or harassment may be based on, such as hair texture, protective hairstyles and sexual orientation. It was adopted unanimously.

WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT SOME OF THE

CHALLENGES THAT OTHER SCHOOL DISTRICTS FACED, I FEEL QUITE CONFIDENT IN STATING

THAT THERE WAS NO ACADEMIC LEARNING

LOSSES FOR OUR STUDENTS. Teresa Prendergast

DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT

PHOTO BY SAM PETRUCCELLI

Rebecca Sassouni was named president of the Great Neck Board of Education last week.

EWSD defends handling of grad speech

Continued from Page 2 said. “The Board of Education categorically rejects any reports of insinuating our district’s educational environment is anything but safe, inclusive and welcoming of all races and ethnicities. We will not allow others to attempt to redefi ne who we are as a school district and community.”

Kamberg called Ayaz’s speech and the events following it unfortunate, and they placed the community in an international spotlight. He gave a timeline of the events before and after the ceremony.

“Speak for those who don’t have a voice, and stand up for any injustice that you see,” Ayaz said in her speech at the school’s graduation. “Educate yourself about international dilemmas, including the ethnic cleansings of Palestinians and Uighur Muslims. Families are continuously torn apart, and real human lives are being lost but ignored.”

Kamberg told the public that Wheatley School Principal Sean Feeney had a conversation with Ayaz and her family later that evening and did not hear any word that she was harassed by students or staff .

But in a letter to the Wheatley community following commencement, Ayaz said that at least two men confronted her and said her speech was “bullshit” and “a piece of crap.” This is in addition to the allegation made by CAIR-NY of an adult shouting “go back to Pakistan.” Ayaz and her family are Muslim and of Pakistani descent.

Kamberg shed little light on specifi cs

of the encounter but confi rmed there was an interaction between Ayaz and adults.

“According to reports, one of the two men made inappropriate statements to Huda Ayaz and her family about the speech,” Kamberg said. “As the audience began to disperse, another parent attempted to confront Huda Ayaz and her family as they spoke with Dr. Feeney. Dr. Feeney redirected that parent away from them and an offi cer and administrators walked with Huda and her family to their car.”

During open time Maliha Ayaz, Huda’s youngest sister, expressed concerns for the safety of herself and other members of minorities in the school who choose to speak up.

“You must condemn what happened to my sister and my family,” Maliha Ayaz said. “And you must take steps to provide accountability and a safe environment for me and students like me.”

Maliha Ayaz pointed to diff erences in the school’s private response versus what was emailed to the community in the following days.

“It completely threw my sister under the bus,” Maliha Ayaz said about the administrator’s emails. “Especially when a school offi cial was apologetic to us in person at the graduation but fl ipped the script in a public address.”

Feeney accepted fault and admitted to not reading the speech carefully enough in private after the graduation, according to Mohamed. In a statement on June 24, Feeney acknowledged that the revised version of the speech was sent to the school, but said he was not made aware an updated version had been submitted.

Mohamed also spoke to trustees, urging more direct support for Ayaz than in their statement considering the alleged comments by attendees.

“A student that you the school district had an obligation to protect from harassment, from bullying, from intimidation of a minor,” Mohamed said. “You have all the evidence as you stated earlier in your statement in a security video footage. And unfortunately, you failed. The school district failed Huda, failed students in this scenario.”

“As far as I understand this school district stands against hate,” Mohamed said. “If anyone had said that about another group of individuals, you all would have condemned it. Where is the condemnation of the parents’ actions?”

Michael Stanger, a rabbi at the Old Westbury Hebrew Congregation who said he was not speaking on behalf of the congregation, said he felt sorry for Ayaz, and the comment to “go back to Pakistan” should never have been made. He also said he not to condone harassment of anybody, especially a 17-year-old.

“As a Jew and as someone who supports Israel, I was off ended,” Stanger said. “I’m all for supporting free speech, but to me, I interpreted it as I saw it, that was hate speech.”

“For a lot of us it was controversial … because it delegitimizes Israel,” Stanger said.

Andrea Bolender, chairperson of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, told trustees that she was not there to off er an opinion, but a solution.

The Holocaust center off ers a curriculum that can deal with these issues, Bolender said. “This is what we do and we are willing to do it for this district,” she said. “The only vaccination for ignorance is education.”

As a Jew and as someone who supports Israel, I was offended. I’m all for supporting free speech, but to me, I interpreted it as I saw it, that was hate speech. Michael Stanger

A RABBI AT THE OLD WESTBURY HEBREW CONGREGATION

Gas-powered leaf blower ban to resume

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth and members of the Town Board are reminding residents and landscaping companies that the Town’s landscaping regulations are now back in eff ect as of June 15.

The regulations are aimed at reducing noise and air pollution caused by gas-powered leaf blowers. Under the regulations, commercial landscapers are prohibited from using gas-powered leaf blowers from June 15 to September 15 every year.

Commercial landscaping is permitted between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and no operation on Sundays and holidays. These restrictions may be suspended during emergencies.

Restrictions will not apply to use at golf courses and cemeteries, except when equipment is operated within 100 feet of a lot containing a residence.

For more information or to report a landscaper violating these restrictions, please call the Town’s 311 Call Center.

Langone-L.I. begins COVID vaccine studies

NYU Langone Hospital— Long Island announced that it is launching two important COVID-19 vaccine studies and is currently enrolling participants. In the fi rst study, the hospital is enrolling young adults, ages 18 through 29 years, including university students.

This study is part of a nationwide “Prevent COVID U study” to evaluate COVID-19 infection and transmission among young adults. The study, involving the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, is intended to help determine whether a person can become infected after they’ve been vaccinated and if the vaccine will stop the virus from spreading personto-person.

Study results are expected to have implications for public health—including on college campuses—especially when new variants are emerging. All participants who have not yet been vaccinated by the end of the fourmonth study will be off ered the Moderna vaccine. The study will also include young adults who choose not to receive a vaccine. Study participants will be compensated approximately $900 for their time and inconvenience.

In the second study, called the “Mix and Match study,” the hospital will assess the safety and eff ects on the immune system of mixing one type of COVID-19 vaccination with a subsequent booster vaccination of a diff erent type, such as a Johnson & Johnson vaccination followed by a Moderna booster shot or other variant vaccine.

NYU Langone Hospital— Long Island is seeking to enroll previously unvaccinated participants for this study, ages 18 and up, with compensation to participants of approximately $700.

For convenience, many study procedures will be conducted remotely and electronically, such as employing an eDiary app for questionnaires and returning nasal swabs by mail.

The nationwide Prevent COVID U study involves more than 40 sites nationwide and is being conducted through the COVID-19 Prevention Network, operationally headquartered at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

These studies are funded by the federal COVID-19 Response Program and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health. The “Mix and Match” study is funded by the Division of Microbiology and Infectious Disease (DMID) of NIAID.

For more information, contact the NYU Long Island Vaccine Center at 516-663-3890 or email: nyuwinthropvaccine@ nyulangone.org. NYU Langone Hospital – Long Island is seeking volunteers for two COVID vaccine studies.

Life skills program expands at Vincent Smith

The Vincent Smith School, a private, special education school in Port Washington, is expanding its existing Vocational Explorations in Education Program (VEEP) to students up to age 23, following the recent passage of New York State Bill A8021.

The bill, signed by Gov. Cuomo June 30, provides that a student enrolled in an individualized education plan in the 2021-2023 school years may continue to receive educational services until the student completes those services or turns 23, whichever is sooner.

Vincent Smith’s VEEP is a transitional program for students in grades 9-12 and up to age 23, designed to teach students essential life skills and independence.

In addition to learning basic skills such as personal fi nance, housekeeping & meal preparation, and hygiene and safety, students will be exposed to a broad spectrum of experiences that will further enrich their functional, social, and communication skills.

Examples of additional skills include:• Scheduling and prioritizing tasks• Grocery shopping• Independent living• Job application & interview• Saving and budgeting money

Vincent Smith School, a coed, not-for-profi t school for grades 1-12, specializes in educating students with learning diff erences like Dyslexia and auditory processing disorders, as well as ADHD and school reluctance. The school off ers small classes (avg. 5:1), diff erentiated instruction with certifi ed special education teachers, and on-site related services.

For more information about VEEP or Vincent Smith School, call 516.365.4900 or go to https:// www.vincentsmithschool.org/. Life skills education includes laundry, vacuuming, sewing.

To advertise here call:516.307.1045

▼ EMPLOYMENT To Place EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT Your Ad Call Phone: 516.307.1045 x 218 Fax: 516.307.1046

NASSAU COUNTY NEEDS CERTIFIED HHA’S, COMPANIONS AND HOMEMAKERS. ★★★ HIRING IMMEDIATELY★★★

DFlynn@theislandnow.com In Person:

22 Planting Field Road Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 We’re Open:

Mon–Thurs: 9am-5:30pm Fri: 9am-6pm “A Special thank you to all the Nurse Aides and all who Save Lives.”

• Competitive Pay Rate • Flexible Scheduling • All Shifts & Locations available 718-850-3400 718-850-3400

Tuesday 11:00am: Classified Advertising Tuesday 1:00pm: Legal Notices/ Name Changes Friday 5:00pm Buyers’s Guide Error Responsibility All ads placed by telephone are read back for verification of copy context. In the event of an error of Blank Slate Media LLC we are not responsible for the first incorrect insertion. We assume no responsiblity for an error in and beyond the cost of the ad. Cancellation Policy Ads must be cancelled the Monday before the first Thursday publication. All cancellations must be received in writing by fax at: 516.307.1046 Any verbal cancellations must be approved by a supervisor. There are no refunds on cancelled advertising. An advertising credit only will be issued.

• Great Neck News • Williston Times • New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times • Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Garden City News • Bethpage Newsgram • Jericho Syosset News Journal • Mid Island Times • Syosset Advance HELP WANTED

Help Wanted $18.50 NYC $17 LI $13.50 UPSTATE NY! If you need care from your relative, friend or neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as a personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA program. No Certificates needed. Phone: 347-713-3553

Long Beach Nursing & Rehab Center Now hiring RN’s LPN’s and CNA’s. Friendly, professional, supportive organization. For more info please contact Samantha Lupo: 516-897-1000 Ext 2112 or slupo@ cassenacare.com

SITUATION WANTED

Certified HHA

•Experienced •Excellent references.

Wewill provide you the best caregivers in America. Filipino men and women. Kind,loving and caring at this very difficult time. Call Gertrude 347–444–0960

FULL TIME LIVE IN OR NIGHTS References available upon request. Fully vaccinated. Call 516-448-0522. SITUATION WANTED

HOUSE CLEANER Excellent service with great references, own transportation. English speaking. Call Mirian at: 516-642-6624

MATURE LADY SEEKS employment as CNA. Home health aide, very reliable, hard working, willing to do background checks, 15 yrs nursing home experience. Please call 516-477-1225 or 917-244-3714

SENIOR CARE I will do your light cleaning, meals, laundry, household chores, personal care. Days / nights / weekends. Excellent references. 20 years experience. $20 / hourEastern Nassau / Suffolk areas only. Call 516-473-3011 CAREER TRAINING

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

MARKETPLACE

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now! Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516-279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information. Visit us at www. invitedsales.com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions! EMPLOYMENT

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP 516-746-8900 Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-Silver-Mirrors-LampsArtwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Tues-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4 Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org Items to Consign?Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange. org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society. Like us on Facebook & Instagram AUCTIONS

Cool Old Stuff in Glen Cove Vintage Shop. WINNER OF BEST OF NORTH SHORE 2020. GREAT PRICED items for Boat and Home. See ALL online: Wilsonsdrydock. com. For info / appt Please call 516-662-2821

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY! Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516-270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com

TAG SALE

GARDEN CITY ESTATE / TAG SALE RAIN OR SHINE Saturday, July10 9:00am-1:00pm 162 Willow Street Furniture, bedframes, headboards, night tables, dressers, sofas, chairs, tables, dishes, glassware, toys, bric a brac, etc. Lots of great finds! ALL MUST GO!!

AUTOMOTIVE AUTO SERVICES

Dettaglio Detailing: Anthony Masia. Owner / Operator. Dependable, professional detailer. SUVs, vans, pick-ups also detailed at a higher price. We specialize in imports / Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi, Jaguar & Maserati. $10 off with this ad. Call 631-612-7152

AUTOS WANTED JUNKCARSBOUGHT

AutoWrecking Frank&Sons

516-997-5736

Drive out Breast Cancer: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup 24hr response Tax deduction Easy to do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT OFFICE SPACE

OFFICE CONDOMINIUM FOR PURCHASE OR LEASE 1505 sf Office Condominium located in a nicely appointed Professional Building immediately adjacent to Garden City. It contains one oversized office that can easily accommodate three people at traditional executive desks, three single-occupant executive offices, a fully functional kitchen, half bathroom, and an additional office suitable for your desired purpose. The unit has been completely renovated with a bright, comfortable appearance. Asking Price $225,750. Please Contact: Marie Saccende by email: msaccende@aol.com

www.theIslandnow.com

$$ATTENTION HOMEOWNERS$$ Seeking those interested in selling their home privately. Iamwilling to pay CASH atmarket value and would be willing to close in as little as 2-4 weeks! Contact me directly for more details. 917-280-3539

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Garden City Border Apartment Huge, bright 2Br, 2 bath apt. $2250 +electric. Gated parking. Laundry room, air conditioning, Dishwasher, Hardwood floors, LIRR. NO BROKER FEE www.gcbapts.com Voice or text: 516-524-6965

VACATION RENTAL

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Best selection of full / partial week rentals. FREE Color Brochure. Holiday Real Estate, Inc: 1-800-638-2102. Online reservations: www.holidayoc. com $75 discount new rentals Code “ToTheOcean2021” (Expires 08-012021)

SERVICE DIRECTORY SERVICES

** EVON’S SERVICES ** HOME HEALTH AIDES ELDER CARE CHILD CARE ANDMORE! We offer the following services: Companions, Home Health Aides / Elder Care Child Care and Housekeeping Laborers Days / Nights Live In or Live Out NO FEE TO EMPLOYERS Call: 516-505-5510

RN’S,LPN’S & CNA’S

For further information and inquiries about positions Please contact Samantha Lupo 516-897-1000 ext.2112 slupo@ cassenacare.com

SERVICES

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99 / mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! CALL 888-508-5313

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!! Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED HHA, LPN, Nurse’s Aide, Childcare, Housekeeping & Day Workers. No Fees to Employers. Call Evons Services 516-505-5510

SERVICE DIRECTORY ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ. Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration / Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES *Handyman & Remodeling *Kitchen Installations *Furniture Assembly *Finish Carpentry *Minor Electrical & Plumbing 28 year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154

CHIMNEY KING ENT. INC. FREE ESTIMATES Stainless steel liners cleaning & repair specialists. Masonry specialist. FULLY licensed & insured. NYC NASSAU SUFFOLK 516-766-1666 or 631-225-2600 Since 1982 chimneykinginc.com Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off and 0% financing for those who qualify. PLUS Senior & Military Di counts. Call 1-877-763-2379

FREE ESTIMATES Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone. Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

ROOF LEAKS REPAIRED Slate Roof Repairs Caulking / Roof Maintenance Copper Flashing Replacements Shingle Roof Repairs Snow Guards / Roof Vents Nassau Lic#H1859520000 B.C. Roofing Call 631-496-9711 (Office) or 516-983-0860 (Owner direct)

Never Pay For Covered Home Repairs Again! Complete Care Home Warranty COVERS ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE. $200.00 OFF + 2 FREE MONTHS! 866-440-6501

MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890 MASONRY All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps. Free Estimates Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000 Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

THENATION’ S 2GUTTER GUARD1

BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND CLOG-FREE GUARANTEE

EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER!

15% OFF & 10

OFF

FINANCING THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET!1

Promo Code: 285

YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE*

+ 5%

OFF

TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS ONLY!** SENIORS &

MILITARY! WE INSTALL

YEAR-ROUND! THE GENERAC PWRcell a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-888-871-0194

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY! Slate & Tile Specialists All types of Roofing Local References Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869 646-996-7628

LAMPS FIXED $65 In home service. Handy Howard.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATEC LAWN SPRINKLERS SPRING TURN ONS Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service / Repairs Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE! 877-516-1160 FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value! Limited Time Of er - Call for Details

N. Hempstead offers early senior walking hours

North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth and the Town Board have announced that North Hempstead Beach Park in Port Washington will have early opening hours for senior residents this summer.

The park will open weekdays at 8 a.m. for senior residents, and no lifeguards will be on duty until 9 a.m.

“It is important to us that our senior residents always have options to remain active,” said Bosworth. “Our early hours provide a wonderful opportunity for our seniors to exercise when the weather is cooler and avoid the extreme heat that can come during the middle of the day. We invite you to come visit our park for a leisurely stroll and take in the scenic views of the beach.”

The following tips may help you stay cool and comfortable all summer long:

Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.Wear clothing that is light-colored, lightweight, loose and absorbent. Cotton is a good choice.Eat fruits and vegetables to replace nutrients. Wear a wide-brimmed hat when going outdoors.Take cool baths and shower once or twice a day.Limit caff eine and alcoholic drinks.Check the daily heat index in the newspaper to alert you to risk of heat-related illness.

For more information, please call 311.

AJC applauds Nassau anti-Semitism definition

The American Jewish Committee praised Nassau County Executive Laura Curran and Suff olk County Executive Steve Bellone for adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working defi nition of antisemitism.

“Critical to eff ectively fi ghting the hatred of Jews is understanding what antisemitism is, and the IHRA defi nition is the gold standard,” said Arnie Herz, AJC Long Island President. “We are grateful to the Nassau and Suff olk County Executives and our local municipal leaders for taking this defi nitive step to clearly defi ne antisemitism, look forward to working with our local government on implementing the defi nition, and continuing to be a resource on combating antisemitism.”

The announcements by the two Long Island offi cials follow recent adoption of the defi nition by the towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay and the City of Glen Cove.

Long Island, home to one of the largest Jewish communities in the U.S., has experienced incidents of antisemitic vandalism and harassment. Nationally, antisemitic incidents have been on the rise.

AJC Long Island also expressed gratitude for its partnership with the Nassau and Suff olk County Police Departments, and all law enforcement agencies on Long Island, who do an outstanding job protecting the Jewish community.

The IHRA Working Defi nition has been adopted by 31 countries, including the United States, and by several multilateral bodies, including the European Commission and Organization of American States.

AJC has been at the vanguard of getting the defi nition adopted by municipalities nationwide. Visit AJC.org/workingdefinition for more information on the IHRA Working Defi nition.

Drucker seeks panel to combat anti-Semitism

In response to a shocking increase in incidents of anti-Semitic violence, hatred and harassment in New York and across the United States and the world, Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D — Plainview) is urging his colleagues to support the creation of a new Special Legislative Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism.

Working under the guidance of the Working Defi nition of Anti-Semitism as adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, the task force would be directed to host one or more public hearings to engage governmental and community leaders, law enforcement personnel, clergy, academics, members of the public and key stakeholders to gather facts about the origins and extent of anti-Semitism in Nassau County. Upon the completion of these hearings and a public comment period of at least 60 days, the task force would submit a report containing recommendations for legislative action no later than International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Jan. 27, 2022. Citing statistics from the Anti-Defamation League which illustrate the alarming and frighteningly persistent increase in antiSemitic incidents during the last four years, Legislator Drucker, who co-introduced the resolution with Legislators Ellen W. Birnbaum (D — Great Neck) and Joshua Lafazan (Woodbury) on June 22, implored his colleagues to act swiftly and decisively on the local level. “We have learned through the millennia that when we overlook the existence of anti-Semitism or are indiff erent to its presence, we enable it to spread — and history has shown time and again the gruesome, catastrophic outcomes of inaction,” Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker said. “I am tired of wringing my hands — it is time to act here in Nassau County and across the nation. This committee will help us identify root causes of hatred so that we can confront anti-Semitism and eradicate it wherever it lurks.” Legislator Drucker’s proposal swiftly earned the support of Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, who signed a Nassau County executive order on June 28 to commit to the observance of the IHRA defi nition of anti-Semitism. “Last week I signed an executive order to recognize the IHRA working defi nition of anti-Semitism because in order to combat anti-Semitism eff ectively, it is important to be clear about what it is and how it may manifest itself,” Nassau County Executive Laura Curran said. “With anti-Semitism on the rise, Nassau County is standing with our Jewish brothers and sisters. I commend Legislators Drucker, Birnbaum, and Lafazan for this important initiative and look forward to continuing our work as one Nassau to ensure hate never fi nds a home in our communities.” Membership of the Special Legislative Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism would consist of six Legislators — three appointed by the Nassau County Legislature’s Presiding Offi cer and three chosen by the Minority Leader — who would then select fi ve additional community leaders based upon their expertise and background in opposing anti-Semitism and intolerance. The County Executive or a designee will also serve an ex offi cio advisory member of the task force. “When paired with County Executive Curran’s commendable executive action to adopt the IHRA’s working defi nition of antiSemitism and ongoing law enforcement efforts to crack down on anti-Semitic violence, discrimination and harassment, I am confi dent that this task force will position Nassau County to confront bigotry and hatred more strongly than ever before,” Nassau County Legislator Ellen W. Birnbaum said. “As we know all too well, anti-Semitism is not new, but what is new is the brazen nature of these acts of violence, harassment, menacing, and intimidation directed towards Jewish citizens,” Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan (Woodbury) said. “By forming this Special Legislative Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, Nassau County will equip policy makers and community leaders with the necessary tools and insights to destroy this pernicious wave of hatred. I am proud to join Legislator Birnbaum as a co-sponsor of this proposal and thank Legislator Drucker for his leadership in developing this bipartisan, communitydriven response.”

In addition to its fact-fi nding mission, the Special Legislative Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism will be tasked with educating youth by hosting a Virtual Youth Roundtable Against Anti-Semitism. Focused upon how the law and public policy can help to diminish bias and insensitivity, the event will be known as “Cardozo Day” in honor of esteemed New York jurist and former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Benjamin N. Cardozo.

“Recently, we’ve seen an alarming rise in anti-Semitism right here in Nassau County, and it’s going to take all of us working together to beat back this hate and forcefully reject it from our community,” state Sen. Anna M. Kaplan (D — North Hills) said. “I applaud the eff orts of Legislator Drucker as a partner in the fi ght against anti-Semitism, and I’m proud to support the creation of a Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism in Nassau County.”

Beyond the halls of government, the proposal has gained the support of an array of community organizations dedicated to the mission of confronting and eradicating anti-Semitism and hatred.

COMMUNITY NEWS FCA hosts fundraiser for youth programs Manhasset Al Fresco event continues

On June 24, Garden City-based nonprofi t FCA held the organization’s 36th annual Mission Moment Scholarship Fund Breakfast at Westbury Manor in Westbury.

For over three decades, FCA’s Mission Moment Scholarship Fund has aimed to guide local youth toward successful futures by enabling at-risk individuals to pursue higher education and improve their lives by matching them with donors. Nearly 50 college scholarships were awarded, raising a total of nearly $110,000 this year.

Scholarship recipients were given the opportunity to meet the donors who helped make their journey possible. The annual reception recognized the extraordinary achievements of scholarship winners, and the dedicated staff and donors who contribute to the program.

One of this year’s honorees, former New York Jet, Erik Coleman, shared inspiring words with the students and spoke about the importance of perseverance and never giving up.

Other speakers included Dr. Isma Chaudhry, Hon. Brianna A. Vaughan, Parvin. P., FCA Walkabout resident, and Dr. Jeff rey Reynolds, FCA president & CEO, all inspired a sense of motivation and optimism for the future amongst the students. The importance of hard work and determination combined with a strong support network or “village” like that which FCA provides were emphasized and ran a common thread amongst the powerful words of the featured presenters.

“We at FCA continue to be inspired by the generosity of our donors and tenacity of our students. The past year has been tough for Long Island’s young people but raising more than $100,000 this morning means that the return to classrooms in September will be a little easier for many. It also means that we have set our scholars up for future success, which makes Long Island better for everyone”, commented Reynolds.

2021 FCA Scholarship Fund Recipients with Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, FCA president and CEO. Join us for outdoor dining, shopping and live entertainment on Plandome Road throughout the summer every other Sunday until October!

Manhasset Al Fresco is part of the Town of North Hempstead’s “Lift up local” initiative.

Hosted by the Manhasset Chamber of Commerce, outdoor dining, shopping and entertainment will be on Plandome Road.

The events are scheduled to take place every other Sunday, alternating every other week between South Plandome Road and North Plandome Road from 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. creating a pedestrian-only zone.

The June 27 kick-off event on South Plandome Road was a huge success with outdoor dining at Herb & Olive and Villa Milano, live music from Local DJ Kieran Ahern and John Byrnes Band!

The next Manhasset Al Fresco event takes place Sunday July 11 on North Plandome Road. North Plandome Road will be closed to traffi c from Hillside Avenue to Colonial Parkway.

The event line-up for July 11 includes outdoor dining at Louies Manhasset, Gino’s Pizzeria, Publicans, Greens Irish Pub, Pita Station, Orlando’s Deli and Carvel.

Young’s Fine Wine & Spirits will be hosting a wine tasting and there will be a dunk tank at A&F Market, everyone will have an opportunity to dunk owner Kenny!

Live Entertainment features local guitarist Raffi , an acoustic performance by local resident Liam Morrisey and Porch Light Rock & Dance Band. Performaces will be held near Manhasset Cinemas, who will be selling popcorn and soda.

Studio demo’s by AKT Manhasset and Tiger Schulmann’s Martial Arts. $5 Psychic readings by Mind Body & Spirits.

Shop the best summer trends at Indi Surf Skate. Little Shop ‘Round the corner will be extending their hours for the event. Visit Ladies n Gents Salon for hair extensions for kids and adults, hair braids at Adelina’s Salon and haircuts and lollipops at Joesph’s Barbershop.

Visit Manhasset Chamber of Commerce for promotional items, raffl es and meet “Gunter” from Mosquito Hunters. Great photo-op for the kids! Become a $25 Residential or $45 Manhasset Beautifi cation Sponsor!

Schnirman delivers annual financial report

Nassau County Comptroller Jack Schnirman announced the release of his offi ce’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020.

The report shows a $128.1 million surplus in Nassau County’s operating funds. This surplus demonstrates that Nassau County managed the fi nancial challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as declining sales tax and other economically sensitive revenues.

The county was able to meet these challenges through eff ective use of federal funding, debt management and other corrective actions.

“Since the 2018 fi scal year, Nassau County has actively taken steps to navigate out of crisis and position itself to work towards longterm fi nancial stability,” said Schnirman. “Through corrective actions taken by the County, eff ective application of federal funding and timely debt management, the County ended the year without painful layoff s, cuts in services, or general fund tax hikes, mitigating a potential operating defi cit as high as $340 million, ultimately closing the year with a $128 million surplus — 2020 shows a clear success in managing an unprecedented fi nancial crisis.

“It goes without saying that the COVID-19 pandemic had an unprecedented eff ect on our communities, our local economy, and as a result, our County’s fi nances. Thinking ahead, my team modeled low, moderate, and high impact scenarios of the eff ect of the pandemic on sales tax revenues. From the various scenarios performed, our Offi ce’s lowerimpact, no second-wave scenario, resulted in the closest estimate of 2020 sales tax revenues to actual revenues performed by any of the County’s fi scal monitors.

“Our Annual Financial Report shows a clear success in managing an unprecedented fi nancial crisis. Furthermore, the County demonstrated that local government is capable of adaptation and modernization and continued to make progress towards sustainability.”

“By exercising strong fi scal discipline, and using all the available tools, Nassau County is in a strong position to continue our recovery from the pandemic,” said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran. “I am proud we delivered a third straight annual surplus and believe we are on our way to exiting NIFA’s control period.”

Nassau County ended the 2020 fi scal year in a positive position, with a $128.1 million GAAP surplus in its primary operating funds. Factors that drove these results include:

An 8.26 percent decline in sales tax revenues from 2020 expected revenues ($105.5 million less than Adopted on a budgetary basis), due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which was feared to be much worse; up to $360.1 million in 2020.Fines and forfeitures were $40 million less than expected, primarily due to decreases in traffi c violations (Red Light Cameras, Boot & Tow, other traffi c violations and associated public safety fees);Mortgage Recording fees increased by $8.5 million, attributed to the County’s booming real estate market and mortgage refi nancings throughout 2020;Receipt and eff ective management of $102.9 million in CARES funding; andDebt management, including lower debt service cost due to lower interest rates and lower issuance expenditures, and the deferral of $75.0 million in principle by one year.

For the fi rst time, Nassau County will receive a special Triple Crown medallion from the GFOA, a designation that signifi es the government has received all three GFOA awards (the Certifi cate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award, Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award).