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Manorhaven trustees leave over attorneys

Board dispute of mayor’s appointment causes law firm to rescind contract

BY CAMERYN OAKES

The Village of Manorhaven’s Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday evening turned contentious and led to three trustees walking out of the meeting after a dispute with the mayor due to his decision to hire village attorneys from Harris Beach PLLC.

After the meeting, Mayor John Popeleski told Blank Slate Media that Harris Beach had rescinded its contract with Manorhaven and will no longer be the village’s attorneys.

He suggested that the decision was made by the law firm, saying their decision to leave the village was due to the board dispute.

“Here again they have stopped the operation of the village,” Popeleski said, referencing the trustees who challenged the village attorney appointment.

He said the board will address hiring a new village attorney at its work session on Wednesday. He said the board will be able to invite eligible attorneys to interview during an executive session the night of the meeting.

“I have pressing matters that are very time sensitive that right now I can’t discuss,” Popeleski said. “Eventually I will let the public know, but right now I got to get someone in to get go-

KEY WITNESS AGAINST MANGANO SENTENCED

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ing.”

At the board’s organizational meeting on July 5, Popeleski presented a resolution to appoint attorneys Jared Kasschau and Brian Stolar as the village’s attorneys. Both attorneys are with Harris Beach PLLC, a New Yorkbased law firm.

Deputy Mayor Harry Farina asked the board to table the resolution as he was not ready to move forward with a vote. He said that he had met with Stolar and they had “never had a good connection.”

No vote was taken on the resolution at the organizational meeting.

Stolar was present at the meeting Wednesday night as the village attorney.

Trustee Khristine Shahipour said she is concerned about the appointment of the village’s attorneys.

She said that since the board never voted on the resolution to appoint the attorneys, there is no contract or retainer between the attorneys and the village. She said Stolar confirmed this via an email on Monday.

Popeleski said he had signed a retainer with Harris Beach and that he has the power to appoint who he wants to legally serve the village.

“So we’re nothing here?” Shahi-

Continued on Page 42

Lawsuit alleges county map unfair to Dems

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Nassau County residents and the Nassau County Democratic Committee filed a lawsuit against Nassau County’s recently redrawn legislative map, citing an alleged illegal partisan advantage for the Republican Party in county Legislature elections.

“This is an illegal map that prevents all voters, especially voters of color, from electing candidates of their choice,” NAACP New York

State Conference Civic Engagement Chair H. Scottie Coads said. “This lawsuit is about ensuring everyone’s votes mean something.”

The new Nassau County Legislative District map, which would be in effect for the next 10 years, was approved Feb. 27 by the Republicancontrolled Legislature along party lines. The map was presented on Feb. 21 by the majority caucus.

The map set off a firestorm when Democrat Minority Leader Kevan Abrahams (D-Freeport) criti-

cized the Republican legislators for working in “secrecy” so they could keep their advantage over the next decade.

Abrahams has been placed into a district inhabited by more Republicans than the current 1st District.

Democratic County Legislator Arnold Drucker expressed in a February statement his displeasure with the proposal that splits Plainview and redraws the lines in his district.

“The current proposal is an exContinued on Page 43

PHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES

A member of the Port Washington Fire Department hits a bomb during a softball game against the Port Washington Police Department. See story on page 2.

Port fosters relations with first responders

National

Out connects community, law enforcement

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Interactions with law enforcement can tend to be stressful moments for many people, but National Night Out is intended to ease those tensions between law enforcement and the communities they serve by fostering enjoyable interactions to get to know one another personally.

Port Washington held its second annual National Night Out, an event intended to help build relationships between law enforcement, first responders, government officials and the community.

Present at the National Night Out included the Port Washington Fire Department, Port Washington Police Department, Sands Point Police Department and the Nassau County Police Department.

Sgt. Suzanne Petrizzo, commanding officer for Special Operations for

Port ed board poses narrower goals

Focus on district climate, excellence

BY CAMERYN OAKES

The Port Washington Board of Education discussed narrowing its goals for the upcoming school year Tuesday night, creating a tentative list of goals that focuses on district excellence, the fostering of a positive school culture and working with parents and families.

Last year’s goals included supporting the social, emotional and physical well-being of all students and staff, supporting a learning environment, curriculum and extracurricular activities that allow all students to flourish, developing a long-term sustainable budget plan and a five-year strategic plan, and supporting the hiring, retention and professional of staff.

Superintendent Michael Hynes said the 2022-2023 goals were helpful in setting the tone for the school year.

He said that while the board is pleased with its goals last year and may drop one, it does not mean that those initiatives will be abandoned altogether.

He suggested that the goals be approached differently this year,

though. He said what could be done collectively is by defining what excellence is and how that looks in different areas of the school district.

“So if we’re going to strive for something I think we need to have a common understanding of what that actually means and then plan for that accordingly,” Hynes said.

He also suggested the goals be narrowed down from the previous school year’s six to only three goals. He said this may allow the board to focus better and spend more time on the three goals.

Hynes provided three suggestions for the board’s goals.

First, he said there is a lot the Port Washington School District can continue to learn to better itself, which can be learned from other school districts locally and nationally. He asked the board to consider this task in researching other practices of school districts to then apply to the Port Washington School District.

Hynes also suggested that the board updates its strategic plan to shift and tweak the district’s focus.

Lastly, he suggested that the Continued on Page 43

the Port Washington Police District, said the origins of National Night out was to show that the community and its police department work hand in hand.

This purpose is continued decades later as Port’s National Night Out shows the unity between law enforcement, first responders and the community they serve.

National Night Out was brought to Port Washington last year by Town of North Hempstead Councilwoman Mariann Dalimonte.

She said she was inspired to bring it to Port Washington after seeing Manhasset’s National Night Out.

She said the event is a beneficial way for the community to get to know their local first responders beyond just the uniform they wear.

“It’s a way of bringing the community together,” Dalimonte said. “You only see police officers and firemen

in their uniforms, and I wanted to the community to see the other side.”

Port’s National Night Out is planned by an organizing committee comprised of members including Dalimonte, Petrizzo, Littig House Executive Director Lynette Batts and Sgt. Peter Griffith, community liaison officer for the Port Washington Police District.

The event was held at Lions Park from 4-7 p.m. and featured an array of activities for children and families to enjoy some summer fun. This included field games, inflatables, live music performances from Bach 2 Rock students and TaeKwonDo demonstrations from Blue Moon students.

All field day activities were arranged by SPORTIME, the new operators of the Port Washington Tennis Academy. SPORTIME owner Daren Horig said they wanted to support the

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Roslyn native training MLB’s future

Eugene Bleecker’s 108 Performance in Knoxville, Tenn. spits out professional baseball prospects

BY BRANDON DUFFY

During the 2023 Major League Baseball draft held in Seattle Sunday, the Pittsburgh Pirates selected Paul Skenes with the first overall pick.

The 21-year-old right-hander, who is 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 247 pounds, just completed his junior season at Louisiana State University whose baseball team finished the season with a national championship at the College World Series in Omaha, NE, earlier this year.

Skenes led the Tigers’ rotation all year and into the postseason, amassing a 13-2 win-loss record, 1.69 earned run average and 335 strikeouts through 235 innings pitched.

However, before Skenes first took the mound in Baton Rouge — or the U.S. Air Force Academy where he began his collegiate career — the California native worked at 108 Performance, a baseball and research training center, starting in 2017.

“With Paul, I saw sometime during the first or second year that he was just different,” said Eugene Bleecker, a Williston Park and Roslyn Heights native and owner of 108 Performance, now in Knoxville, TN. “He just did everything he was supposed to do to get the best of his ability.”

with Bleecker. Troy was selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks with the 12th overall pick.

A Gorgeous Colonial Awaits You

Bleecker fell in love with baseball at a young age playing at all levels on Long Island through college, starting in the Williston Park Little League. A Wheatley School graduate, Bleecker spent a decade at the New York Institute of Technology’s baseball academy on top of multiple travel teams before playing in college.

“I had a very good background growing up here in baseball,” Bleecker, who moved to Roslyn Heights when he was a teenager, said. “I learned to love it at New York Tech.”

Bleecker got his start in coaching when he was splitting his time between training players in California and pursuing a professional contract as a free agent after college.

It’s an endeavor that has crossed Bleecker’s path with Major league players, teams and opening his third facility, two previous ones in California and his current one in Knoxville. Bleecker also hosts a yearly event in the winter called “Bridge the Gap” that includes workouts in front of Major-League coaching and a forum among baseball minds to discuss the latest advancements in the game.

“The game told me where I was going to end up and I’m very thankful,” Bleecker said.

America’s pastime was born on

the Elysian Fields in Hoboken, NJ, on Oct. 6, 1845. Almost exactly 177 years later Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge hit his 62nd home run of the season in Toronto, breaking Roger Maris’ singleseason American League home run record.

Between then and now, the game has been played through every level with many schools of thought, including a more modern emphasis on analytics. Bleecker, who sports an old-school handlebar mustache that would give Rollie Fingers -– he last pitched 38 years ago -– a run for his money, said he believes the right approach to coaching and player development comes from an appropriate balance between old and new and teaching with a purpose.

“As coaches use data and technology to use collect information, their eyes should also be a part of it,” Bleecker said. “You can’t just blindly trust what the data says.”

Training can look like breaking down film or properly learning how to transfer force in pitching mechanics using water-based products that help emulate a whip-like motion, Bleecker said.

When asked if there are any stars he tells his players to emulate, Bleeck-

Continued on Page 42

Skenes was joined by Tommy Troy, a 21-year-old shortstop from Stanford University who also trained

PHOTO COURTESY OF 108 PERFORMANCE

Eugene Bleecker, of Williston Park and Roslyn Heights.

Circumcision protested in Manhasset

Bloodstained Men, a California non-profit, don bloody pants while marching across busy intersection

BY KARINA KOVAC

At the busy intersection of Northern Blvd and Port Washington Boulevard, a protest by the California-based non-profit group Bloodstained Men caused a commotion Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Motorists passing by honked, shouted and exchanged both support and opposition with the protesters, who were wearing white outfits featuring a vibrant red spot over the crotch area. The purpose of the protest was to raise awareness about circumcision and advocate for the preservation of the foreskin.

The Bloodstained Men group, formed in 2012, is currently touring New York and chose Manhasset’s bustling intersection for its visibility and impact. Their signs carried messages like “blood rituals are not medicine” and “I want my foreskin back.”

They’ve been traveling across America in Chicago, Boston and other major cities.

Manhasset motorists honked at the protestors with some in favor and others against the movement. One driver shouted “die” at the group while another produced an enthusiastic “yes.”

David Atkinson, the president and CEO of Bloodstained Men, was among the protesters who took to the streets with the intention of increasing awareness among “intactivists.” These are individuals who believe in the right of a person to not be subjected to involuntary, non-herapeutic modification of their genitals. Atkinson, who started participating in the group in 2014, said their aim is to prevent future generations from undergoing non-consensual genital cutting.

In an interview with the Manhasset Times, Atkinson said, “The foreskin is a normal, healthy, valuable part of the human penis, and the European medical community has condemned American doctors for tampering with the genitals of perfectly

healthy baby boys. So, we’re here to encourage American parents to educate themselves about the functions of the foreskin so that they have the resources and the confidence to protect their children from anyone who would try to cut off part of their children’s penises.”

Atkinson said the two main problems related to circumcision are ignorance about the value and function of the foreskin and denial of injury resulting from circumcision. He claims that ignorance exists even within the medical profession itself, attributing it to the tradition of American doctors not having the foreskin.

Drawing an analogy to female genital mutilation, Atkinson argued that such practices are illegal in the

United States and should be, as no one should tamper with the genitals of a healthy infant.

The Bloodstained Men group also referenced other intactivist organizations such as Attorneys for the Rights of the Child and Doctors Opposing Circumcision, all of which share the same advocacy for protecting children from non-consensual circumcision.

The genesis of the Bloodstained Men’s distinctive outfit and creation dates back to 2012 when intactivist leader Jonathon Conte protested at the American Academy of Pediatrics Convention in New Orleans. That year the AAP updated their statements and asserted that the benefits of circumcision outweighed the risks.

“Specific benefits identified included prevention of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and transmission of some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has endorsed this statement,” the AAP said in its 2012 statement.

In response to the AAP’s statement, Atkinson asserted, “They were immediately condemned by the European medical community in the pediatrics journal and the AAP’s own journal a few months later.” He said that one committee member published an article in 2016 claiming the AAP’s statements were primarily based on cultural and religious factors rather than medical considerations.

In recent years, the debate surrounding circumcision has gained traction in public discourse. In 2020, presidential candidate Andrew Yang expressed his opposition to the practice, and if he’d been elected, it would have been a part of public policy.

David Wilson, an intactivist for over 35 years, said he still feels incomplete due to his circumcision nearly 70 years ago. He started protesting in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1992, the same year he founded the Stop Infant Circumcision Society, and continued to protest with the Bloodstained Men group.

“I knew something was missing that I needed or wanted,” said Wilson, “and the best way I thought I could do it is to be vocal.”

BOCES superintendent dies after surgery

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Robert Dillon, a longtime educator and Nassau BOCES district superintendent, died Friday after medical complications from spinal surgery. He was 72.

Dillon is survived by his wife and childhood sweetheart Patricia Maureen, son Christopher and his wife Jessica, daughters Deirdre and Caitlin, grandchildren Kylie and Brendan and his brothers and sister.

His family thanked NYU Langone Hospital and its staff for their care of Dillon.

Dillon was raised in Bayside,

Queens, by his parents Marie and Martin, alongside his four brothers –Matthew, Terrance, Dennis and Kevin – and sister Maureen.

He was drafted to play baseball for the Detroit Tigers out of Loyola High School in New York City but rejected the offer to pursue a career in education. He earned a doctorate in education at St. John’s University in Queens.

He was an educator for 45 years and served in a diverse array of positions. This included as superintendent of four school districts – East Meadow, Sugar Loaf, Abbott Union and Eastport. He is remembered as the “driving force” that led to the merging of Eastport and

South Manor school districts, according to an obituary from the family.

He was “dedicated to fostering the next generation of school leaders” and was a mentor to many seeking an administrative certification while he taught at St. John’s University, SUNY at New Paltz, St. John Fisher University and Dowling College, the family said.

Dillon served as superintendent of Nassau BOCES since 2015 in which he oversaw a collective of 56 local school districts in Nassau County. He left a “legacy that will impact the students of Nassau County for decades,” his family said.

“Whether navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing for increased mental health student support, or innovating numerous programs, he has revitalized, transformed and enhanced educational opportunities for all students,” according to his family.

He also served on the Long Island Power Authority, SCOPE Education Services and SUNY Old Westbury’s School of Education.

Dillon had a love for golfing, camping, fishing and the New York Giants. He is remembered as a family man who ensured everyone was happy and taken care of, and as generous,

kind and hardworking.

Visitation will be held from 3-8 p.m. on Tuesday at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home located at 1201 Franklin Ave. in Garden City.

Dillon’s funeral mass will be held at 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday at The Cathedral of St. Agnes located at 29 Quealy Place in Rockville Centre. The interment will follow the funeral at Queen of Peace Cemetery on Jericho Turnpike in Old Westbury.

Dillon’s family has asked that individuals who wish to honor him consider donating to the Nassau BOCES Educational Foundation in lieu of sending flowers.

PHOTO BY KARINA KOVAC

The Bloodstained Men group protested at a busy Manhasset intersection on Sunday during their foreskin awareness tour around the state.

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Ex-Mangano ally Singh gets 4 years

Restaurateur turned government witness pleads guilty to bribing for former county executive

BY BRANDON DUFFY

Harendra Singh, a restaurateur turned government witness who provided key testimony in former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano’s corruption trial, was sentenced Wednesday to four years in prison.

Singh, 64, pleaded guilty in 2016 to federal charges that he bribed Mangano from 2010 to 2015 in exchange for official actions, including securing about $20 million in loans from the Town of Oyster Bay.

Although federal Judge Joan Azrack of the Eastern District of New York said Singh was “a master of pay to play,” she acknowledged that his cooperation had helped to convict Mangano in 2019.

“The extent and nature of his cooperation is possibly unmatched by any defendant in a corruption investigation,” Azrack said, according to The New York Times.

In March 2019, Mangano was found guilty of corruption charges along with his wife,

Linda, and was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison a month later. Singh had provided 12 days of testimony that generated almost 2,600 pages, ac-

cording to court documents. Mangano, who was the Nassau executive from 2010 through 2017, is currently serving his sentence at a Massachu-

setts facility.

Linda Mangano, who began her 15-month sentence last year, was transferred from a prison in Connecticut to serve

the remainder of her time at home. She was convicted of lying to the FBI during its investigation into Mangano’s corruption.

Mangano’s conviction was based on a deal he made with Singh in which Singh kicked back money and personal benefits in return for the county executive’s pushing the Town of Oyster Bay to authorize loans for Singh, according to the U.S. attorney’s office. Singh in turn paid for five vacations, hardwood flooring, a custom office chair, watch and a “no-show” job worth $450,000 for Linda as a marketing director for Singh, prosecutors said.

Singh’s four-year sentence is less than the 14 to 17.5 years prescribed for his crimes, according to federal sentencing guidelines. In asking Azrack for a shorter sentence, federal prosecutors cited the “substantial assistance” Singh provided.

“In imposing a fair and just sentence, the court must weigh the defendant’s assistance against the seriousness of his criminal conduct. Here, Singh’s cooperation facilitated a significant corruption investigation and prosecution,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine Mirabile said on July 12.

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PHOTO BY JOE NIKIC

Former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano, as seen leaving the federal courthouse in Central Islip in 2017.

D’Esposito opposes congestion pricing

BY BRANDON DUFFY

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (R-Island Park) introduced bipartisan legislation last week opposing New York City’s congestion pricing, which includes plans to toll drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street.

The bill was co-sponsored by New Jersey Democrats U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer of the state’s 5th Congressional District and Thomas Kean Jr. of the state’s 7th Congressional District.

Congestion pricing, officially known as the Central Business District Tolling Program, will lower traffic and similar programs have been shown to improve air quality, according to the Metropolitan Transit Authority.

The plan calls for a toll to be paid to enter a zone that extends from 60th Street to the Battery.

Officials said the program could be instituted by spring 2024.

“The new congestion pricing plan is an assault on the hardworking Americans commuting into New York City every day,” D’Esposito said in a statement. “Commuters should not be forced to bail out the MTA for countless years of mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility. Congestion pricing is a slap in the face to my constituents, who already must navigate record high inflation, increasing property taxes, and MTA fare hikes.”

He pointed out that the plan will have farreaching effects on commuters in the tri-state area.

“It’s time for leaders in Albany to go back to the drawing board and stop taxing their way out of problems of their own creation,” Esposito said.

The resolution, introduced on July 24 and referred to committee, calls for New York to study the economic impact on small businesses. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy filed a lawsuit last month against the U.S. Department of Transportation, which greenlit New York City’s plan.

New Jersey contends the approval from the federal agency violated the National Environmental Policy Act of 1970, which requires the department to conduct comprehensive reviews before approving the project.

If implemented, peak-hour travel could cost between $9 and $23 in any of the seven toll price scenarios. Off-peak travel could cost between $7

and $17 and overnight travel might cost between $5 and $12.

The Manhattan Central Business District is one of the biggest in the world. But in 2020 and 2021, the city ranked as the most congested in America, according to a report from INRIX, a private analytics company,

The executive summary of the congestion pricing plan says the region around New York City suffers from driver congestion costs of 102 hours of wasted time per year and around $1,595 per driver annually. It also notes that between 2010 and 2019, travel speeds in the Manhattan Central Business District fell by 22%, from 9.1 mph to 7.1 mph.

The program’s environmental assessment from last August states that over 1,262,400 of the roughly 1.5 million people who work in the Central Business District commute from outside the city, according to Census Transportation Planning Package data from 2012 to 2016. Long Island accounts for 8% of these commuters — a little over 100,000 individuals.

The congesting pricing proposal seeks to lessen traffic while generating funds for upcoming transportation improvements. Officials say these changes will have a positive impact on the environment, the economy and emergency response times.

According to the report, truck traffic may be decreased by up to 81% and car traffic by up to 20%.

“At a time when we should be doing everything we can to make life more affordable for hardworking families, New York’s and the MTA’s congestion tax will whack middle-class Jersey and New York drivers with a $23-a-day tax to go south of 60th in Manhattan,” Gottheimer said. The MTA admitted in their own report that the congestion tax will increase traffic and cancer-causing air pollution in Jersey and the outer boroughs.”

The congressman said there is strong bipartisan support in Congress for stopping the bailout of the mismanaged MTA.

The program would be the first of its kind in the country. Major foreign cities that have seen at least a 24% reduction in traffic include Stockholm, London and Singapore, the MTA said.

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JCC to offer jobs for disabled adults

Career initiative for adults with special needs to bridge unemployment gap, increase independence

BY CAMERYN OAKES

The Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center will soon be employing adults with disabilities with the help of a $35,000 grant to continue its mission of supporting individuals with special needs and bridging their unemployment gap.

The JCC’s Vocational Life Skills Training Center is a year-round, day habilitation program that provides adults 21 and older with special needs vocational training, educational workshops, life skills training and socialization opportunities.

The center’s day habilitation program caters to about 35 participants and the whole center provides for about 50 individuals.

Individuals with special needs can attend high school until they are 21 years old, so the center continues education and support for individuals when they age out of local schools.

Heather Schulz, the director of the Vocational Life Skills Training Center, said the purpose of the center is to assist individuals’ in their quest for independence.

Schulz said the center received a $35,000 grant from the UJA-Federation which will go towards paid jobs at the JCC for program participants.

Individuals would be earning $16 an hour.

“Our hope is that it will motivate some individuals to work towards a

paid job right here and then open up other opportunities,” Schulz said.

This grant will allow for the JCC cafe to be open for extended hours

and provide paid job opportunities at the cafe for individuals with disabilities.

Reconstruction is planned for the

JCC’s cafe, which has not started yet but is projected to be done by midSeptember. Once this is completed, the paid job opportunities will start.

While center members are encouraged to apply for these jobs in the future, she said the job postings are open to anyone in the community with a disability.

Schulz said the grant is crucial in creating employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.

In tandem with the center’s future paid job opportunities, it also offers unpaid internships for center participants to learn vocational skills.

Program Without Walls provides internships at the Sid Jacobson JCC as well as local businesses like Abeetza Pizza, Heritage Farm and Gardens, Holiday Farms and Preen Pets.

Internships at the JCC include working at the Gezunter Cafe, Community Needs Bank, maintenance and clerical assignments.

“So we support all of the departments here,” Schulz said.

The center also runs the Birthday and Anniversaries Committee, which is in charge of mailing cards to JCC members for their birthdays and anniversaries. She said not only is the

Continued on Page 43

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SID JACOBSON JCC

Participants at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center’s Program Without Walls work at the JCC cafe.

Town celebrates the reopening of Fuschillo Park

North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Council Member Robert Troiano are proud to announce that Charles J. Fuschillo park has reopened after the Town embarked on an extensive renovation project to bring major improvements to the park.

DeSena and Council Member Troiano celebrated the reopening with a ribbon-cutting celebration on Saturday, July 22 that was attended by hundreds of residents.

“The long-awaited multi-milliondollar rehabilitation of Charles Fuschillo Park in Carle Place is officially complete, and we are so excited that it has reopened to the community,” Town DeSena said. “The finished product is a truly spectacular community park that has received its most extensive set of up-

grades in nearly 30 years, and we are so excited for families and children in Carle Place to enjoy these new amenities. This park rehabilitation will greatly enhance the quality of life of our residents, and also represents a new benchmark for accessibility in our Town as the newly installed playground is the first in the Town of North Hempstead which is fully accessible for children with disabilities to enjoy.”

“After many years of visioning, public participation, planning, and designing, we are excited that the renovation project at Fuschillo Park has been completed,” said Troiano. “Our goal throughout this process has been to transform Fuschillo Park into an exciting recreational destination for our residents – especially those in the Carle Place community. I am

thrilled that residents are now able to experience the new Fuschillo Park.”

The recently completed renovation project at Charles J. Fuschillo Park included a new playground, a splash park, outdoor fitness equipment, a shaded picnic area, games, and more.

The grand opening celebration featured a ribbon cutting, live music provided by the “Yes We Can” Band, a DJ, lawn games, a hot dog stand, and ice cream truck.

Tune into the Town’s award-winning government access television station, North Hempstead TV (NHTV) to see the special celebration. Residents will be able to watch the program on channel 18 or 65 on Cablevision and channel 46 on Verizon FIOS, on the Town’s social media pages, or by visiting: www.mynhtv.com.

Antisemitism task force meets with superintendents

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D- Plainview) joined with members of the Nassau County Task Force to Combat Antisemitism in Lake Success on Wednesday, July 26 for a meeting with superintendents from seven Nassau County school districts.

The discussion focused upon efforts to combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred and bias in Nassau County and throughout the region.

“Education must be at the core of any long-term strategy that we implement to eradicate antisemitism and all forms of hatred from our society,” Drucker said. “At a time when school curriculum is being threatened

by organized outside pressures that would seek to whitewash history, it is imperative to remain vigilant and ensure that our young people learn the whole truth – and nothing but the truth. That is why this opportunity to work with Nassau County’s educational leaders was especially timely and truly impactful, and I look forward to continued collaboration in our efforts to create a more accepting and inclusive society for all.”

Drucker co-introduced the resolution establishing the Special Legislative Task Force to Combat Antisemitism on June 22, 2021 in response to an alarming and frighteningly persistent increase in antisemitic incidents

in recent years.

It was adopted unanimously by the full Nassau County Legislature in August 2021. Task Force members were nominated in the beginning of 2022, and the group embarked upon its mission later that spring.

In addition to its fact-finding mission, the Task Force is also tasked with educating youth by hosting a Youth Roundtable Against Antisemitism.

The event will focus upon how the law and public policy can help to diminish bias and insensitivity and be called “Cardozo Day” in honor of esteemed New York jurist and former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Benjamin N. Cardozo.

Nassau, Suffolk swim event to fight cancer

Steve Chestler of Old Westbury sadly lost his wife Carolyn Jaenisch to terminal adenocarcinoma, a form of non-small cell lung cancer, in November 2021.

Carolyn was an avid swimmer and swam with the Long Island Masters and Excel Swim Club for more than 21 years. While her diagnosis and passing were a huge shock, her family needed to do something to honor her life and love of swimming and found Swim Across America.

In 2022, Team Carolyn was formed. Captained by Steve Chestler and including Steve and Carolyn’s children Caitlin and Gregory, Team Carolyn quickly became the No. 1 fundraising team in the country for Swim Across America, raising more than $230,000 in 2022 and has already raised $120,000 so far in 2023 for an amazing total of more than $350,000.

This year, Team Carolyn is back and is bigger than ever with 58+ members on the team and is determined to top last year’s fundraising with an even loftier goal.

“We have teamed up with Team Excel, from Carolyn’s former swim club, and together, we are supporting others in our community who are fighting cancer,” said Steve Chestler. “One of those is Derrick Edwin. Derrick is a seasoned triathlete who has completed the IronMan competition –and did so in 2021 with cancer –unbeknownst to him at that time. Derrick’s diagnosis was shocking. He is just about one of the fittest guys you could meet, but it goes to show that cancer doesn’t discriminate. Even though Derrick is fighting cancer, he maintains a positive attitude and upbeat spirit throughout his treatment.”

Edwin was scheduled to join Team Carolyn on July 30 to swim and make waves to fight cancer.

“When Steve asked me to join Team Carolyn, it was a nobrainer,” said Edwin. “Swim Across America has provided me with an unbeatable support system. I hope to spread hope and positivity to all my cancer warriors fighting this disease. We can beat this!”

Swim Across America Nassau/Suffolk-Sound to Cove has raised more than $11 million in the past 23 years for the swim’s local beneficiaries: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institute of Northwell Health, the University of Texas MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital (The Stacey Leondis Fellowship) and SHARE Cancer Support.

More than 250 swimmers participate annually to make

waves to fight cancer.

Swim Across America was founded in 1987 with its first open water event in Long Island Sound. Since that time, the nonprofit organization has raised more than $100 million to fight cancer. In its 36 years of “making waves to fight cancer,” more than 100,000 swimmers and 150 Olympians have swum the circumference of the earth three times, uniting a movement to fight cancer that has created a groundswell of support spanning

all generations. Today, more than 24 communities hold open water swims and charity pool swims each year, from Nantucket to under the Golden Gate Bridge, which support innovative cancer research, detection and patient programs.

Swim Across America’s funding of clinical trials for patients helped contribute to four FDA approved life-saving immunotherapy cancer treatments: Yervoy, Opdivo, Tecentriq and Keytruda.

More than 60 scientific grants

are funded each year and there are now ten dedicated Swim Across America Labs at major institutions including Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, John Hopkins Medicine Baltimore, Rush University Medical Center Chicago, Baylor Scott & White Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center in Dallas, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York, Infusion Center at Nantucket Cottage Hospital, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and San Francisco, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

The Swim Across America Nassau/Suffolk-Sound to Cove open water swim offers four different length swims: ½-mile, 1-mile, 5K or 10K as well as a Kids’ Splash. To learn more about the Swim Across America Nassau/Suffolk-Sound to Cove open water swim on July 30, or register to swim, donate or be a land or water volunteer, visit swimacrossamerica.org/soundtocove.

PHOTO COURTESY JCRC-LI

PHOTO COURTESY OF SWIM ACROSS AMERICA & NASSAU/SUFFOLK SOUND TO COVE

Town official join local residents for the grand reopening Fuschillo Park in Glen Cove.

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Nassau officials now go silent on Israel

What do Nassau County, town and village officials think of Israeli lawmakers approving a contentious plan of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to restrict the influence of the Supreme Court?

The plan, opposed for months by tens of thousands of Israeli protesters, is seen by many as a threat to Israeli democracy, the country’s national security and its economic well-being.

More than 10,000 reserve pilots, intelligence officers, commandos, military instructors, army medics and infantrymen had threatened to resign from volunteer duty if the government pressed ahead with the judicial overhaul bill that was approved by the Knesset, the Israeli parliament.

And a Times of Israel poll last week of 734 Israeli founders and CEOs of start-ups and managing directors of venture capital firms found that more than two-thirds were taking steps to move their assets outside Israel in anticipation of the new law. There’s also been a reported surge in Israelis seeking second passports

What does that have to do with Nassau County, town and village officials? Doesn’t the United States have a president and State Department to handle issues like this?

Well, local officials across the county have not let the country’s foreign service prevent them from regularly commenting on matters concerning Israel and, in some cases, taking their own actions.

In May 2022, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced that Nassau County would sign an economic and cultural agreement with “Judea and Samaria.”

Judea and Samaria, whose names go back to Biblical times, is now an Israeli-designated administrative territory that encompasses the Israelioccupied West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem.

“This agreement will establish a long-term relationship of cooperation and friendship based on the principle of

equality in sovereignty with Judea and Samaria,” Blakeman said in 2022.

This strongly suggested support for Israel’s unilateral annexation of the West Bank and an end to the two-state solution with Palestinians that has been the cornerstone of America’s Middle East policy since 1993.

Blakeman did not say last year if he, like the far-right members of Netanyahu’s current coalition, supports the end of the two-state solution. But given his previous comments, he should do so now.

He should also say now if he supports Netanyahu’s plan to restrict the influence of the Israeli Supreme Court – the only check on him and Israel’s parliament.

Unlike the United States, Israel has only one House and no constitution to prevent a majority of lawmakers from doing pretty much whatever they want to do.

In August of last year, following Blakeman’s announcement, Village of Great Neck Mayor Pedram Bral signed an agreement for the village to become a sister city with two towns in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The international community considers all Israeli settlements in the West Bank to be illegal and their growth has been the source of a heated debate in Israel.

A year earlier, town and county officials in Nassau reacted swiftly to the news that Ben & Jerry’s would not sell ice cream in the Israeli-occupied West Bank or East Jerusalem as of 2023.

Not that Ben & Jerry’s would no longer be sold in Israel. That would continue. The ban, they said, would only apply to the Israeli-occupied West Bank or East Jerusalem.

Republican Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin said he had directed every department and commissioner to make sure that not only was the town not selling Ben & Jerry’s ice cream but any other product of the company that owns Ben & Jerry’s, Unilever Corp.

This covers 400 brands, including Dove soap, Lipton tea, Breyers ice

cream, Klondike Bars and Hellman’s mayonnaise.

Hempstead officials said their actions followed legislation approved in 2016 prohibiting the town from doing business with any company boycotting Israel in what is known as the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions, or BDS movement.

Then Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, a Democrat, said she was “disappointed by Ben & Jerry’s decision to align itself with the anti-Israel BDS movement, which unfairly and dangerously singles out the world’s only Jewish state.”

Then North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth, a Democrat, sounded a similar note in opposing a company refusing to sell ice cream in land occupied by Israel since 1967.

But so far, none of these officials has had anything to say about what many Israelis see as a threat to the country’s democracy. And the call by some in Netanyahu’s far-right coalition to annex the West Bank. At a time when Ukraine and a coalition led by the United States are trying to repel Russia’s effort to take over Ukraine.

Why the silence now?

Blakeman, a Republican, appeared to acknowledge in 2022 that politics played no small part in the county’s

agreement with Judea and Summaria by pointing out in a press release that “Nassau County is home to approximately 230,000 Jewish residents, including some of the largest synagogues in the United States.”

That point seem to be underlined when he concluded his release by noting he was Nassau’s first Jewish county executive and then Congressman Lee Zeldin, who was at the time the Republican candidate for governor, was one of two Jewish Republicans in Congress.”

Unsaid was that there were 35 Jewish members of Congress who are Democrats, including 10 senators.

Neither Blakeman nor any of the other elected officials would be the first to pander to an ethnic group. So perhaps they only spoke and acted when they found it politically advantageous.

Many moderates in Israel and this country, especially among Democrats, have strongly opposed Netanyahu’s plan.

This is less so among conservatives in both countries and Republicans here who support former President Donald Trump, a close ally of Netanyahu, who currently is also facing corruption charges.

Many believe that restricting the court’s authority in Israel will result in the charges being dropped against Ne-

tanyahu. Sound familiar?

Does it matter if officials in Nassau County from either party comment and even vote as our elected officials on issues related to the foreign policy of the United States? Other than getting local votes?

Probably not.

But that doesn’t mean the words of our elected representatives do not have consequences, intended or otherwise.

Based on what was being said in Nassau County, Israel’s leaders certainly could not be faulted if they believed that their country would not face criticism in how they dealt with Palestinians in the West Bank or the country’s efforts in finding a two-state solution.

This is not in Israel’s best interests if you want to see Israel remain a Jewish state and a democracy. Sometimes good friends need to be prepared to offer uncomfortable truths.

So Nassau officials may bear some responsibility for some of the extreme policies that are now being considered in Israel.

If Nassau officials were acting on principle in the past, they should speak up now in defense of democracy in Israel and a two-state solution.

The stakes are now so much higher than the sale of ice cream on the West Bank.

Unless you have been hiding under a very big rock, I trust that by now you have heard that Florida’s middle school students are learning that some slaves benefited from slavery by acquiring useful skills. The benefits of slavery are written into the Florida Deptartment of Education’s curricula.

Still confused?

Gov. Ron DeSantis tried to straighten it out. He explained that the benefit that slavery brought is all “rooted in whatever is factual” and that some slaves learned “how to be a blacksmith.”

Okay, that clears it up. By the way, if you are interested in observing what some slaves learned, Old Bethpage Village Restoration features demonstrations of blacksmithing. If you are lucky enough you might even walk away with a souvenir horseshoe!

Until Gov. DeSantis began capitalizing on culture war grievances underpinned by revisionist history, who

knew that plantations were secretly trade schools for the industrial arts?

“Unfortunately, it has to be said – slavery wasn’t a jobs program that taught beneficial skills. It was literally dehumanizing and subjugated people as property because they lacked any rights or freedoms,” tweeted Will Hurd, former U.S. representative and 2024 Republican presidential candidate.

Fox News host Jesse Watters tried to clean things up as well, but he just made more of a mess of things.

He stated that no one is saying slaves benefited from slavery. They are teaching how some slaves gained skills during slavery that can be used for their own good, he added. One must wonder if Watters believes that grave digging is a skill Holocaust survivors learned that led to their own good.

“I cannot imagine what the parents of black children in Florida are feeling. To learn that their children

ANDREW MALEKOFF

The Back Road

will be taught that slavery was beneficial to slaves. If my kids had to sit thru lessons that extolled the virtues of the Holocaust, I would have lost my mind,” tweeted Henry Rosenberg. Regarding the benefits of slavery, “the basic racist assumption is that

KREMER’S CORNER

There are many important public jobs that involve community service. By any measure, a policeman is one of the most important positions in our government structure. They protect us around the clock and give us a sense of security because they are there for us whenever anything goes wrong.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was a national policeman who could keep the political parties from doing dangerous and stupid things?

The first place I would send the national cop would be Alabama. Recently the United States Supreme Court ruled that the Alabama legislature was required to draw new legislative maps giving black communities one extra member of Congress.

Considering that 27% of the state’s population is Black, this is a fair decision. But the legislature has said “no” and defied the court. If only there was a national cop to make an arrest.

My next stop would be Florida, where they should arrest the officials

of the state Education Department. These supposedly smart people have approved a curriculum that states that slaves “developed skills that could be used for personal benefit.”

Somehow the department thinks that slaves forced into agricultural work, domestic service, blacksmithing and tailoring really were getting vocational training while being whipped and beaten.

While in Florida, the national cop should examine the policies of Gov. Ron DeSantis. In his quest to out-Trump former President Trump, DeSantis has targeted the gay population with various restrictions on their free speech and how the issue of being gay should be handled. He has chased thousands of school teachers out of the state, with official threats of firing if they are not careful about what they say and what classroom books they use. He is currently trying to dictate what courses private colleges can teach.

The next stop for my national cop is at the office of U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-OH). Grassley, who is

Kremer’s Corner

88, and planning to seek another six-year term, should definitely retire along with Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-CA). He broke the law by releasing a confidential FBI document in an effort to smear President Biden and insinuated, with no absolutely no proof, that the president was involved in a bribery scheme.

these were not PEOPLE who were already skilled before they were kidnapped and brought here. Their talent and skill were used to enrich their enslavers and ultimately the country,” tweeted Kim C. Reilly.

One must wonder if DeSantis has contemplated renaming some of the more historic plantations like Boone Hall Plantation in South Carolina.

Rebranding could support the DeSantis’ curricula by emphasizing the benefits of slavery. For example, a name like Boone Hall Honest Work and Industrial Training Academy could help to reinforce how plantations inspired slaves’ industrial skills and personal development.

Although the matter of Florida’s fractured curricula deserves the widespread attention it is receiving, it is only one part of a bigger set piece of right-wing white nationalist extremism coupled with mainstream Republican collusion and cowardice.

We see it played out daily, wheth-

er it is through actions taken by state governments to limit women’s reproductive rights, putting pregnant moms lives at risk.

Or, in places like Eagle Pass, Texas where DeSantis’ evil twin Gov. Gregg Abbott enabled a pregnant asylumseeking teen and other migrants to be bloodied after being tossed into a sea of razor wire installed by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Extolling the benefits of slavery is part of a troubling mosaic of misinformation aimed at undermining diversity and inclusion. There were no benefits to slavery for slaves. Only captivity, torture, pain, trauma, and loss. Maintaining a sense of family, community, and spirituality were developed out of the invasive reach of slaveholders.

I imagine it will not be long before DeSantis’ Florida Department of Education, which is committed to sanitizing history, has the temerity to offer a lesson on “slavery’s positive impact on character building.”

The benefits of a plantation trade school Help! We need a national policeman

There is enough criminal work in Washington that a national political cop could spend months locking up people who are a threat to society. He should visit with House Speaker Kevin Mc Carthy (D-CA), who in his desperation to keep his job, keeps coming up with schemes to satisfy the thirst of his crazy Freedom Caucus. McCarthy should employ a criminal defense lawyer in his offices to keep him from being arrested.

Next stop is at the office of Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Al). To date, Tuberville has held up over 200 military appointments and promotions, because of his objection to abortion policies. His latest hold is on the position of commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. At no time in the history of the nation have the Marines been without a leader, which jeopardizes national security. Tuberville is a football legend in Alabama, but he disgraces the Senate with his conduct.

The last two candidates for serious scrutiny are U.S. Reps. George Santos (R-NY) and Marjorie Taylor

Greene (R-GA). It is a disgrace that Santos has not been removed from office and he continues to collect a paycheck at taxpayer expense. His latest contribution to the House agenda is his announced support for the impeachment of President Biden.

Congresswoman Greene has succeeded in becoming one of the bestknown Republican members due to her daily pronouncements. Her latest contribution to the reputation of the House is her display of a naked photo of Hunter Biden at a congressional hearing. To the shock of no one, her leadership didn’t criticize her conduct and they never will as she is the closest adviser to House Speaker Kevin Mc Carthy.

Sadly, there is no national cop to help restore sanity and safety to our nation. We are stuck with a whole houseful of lawbreakers, zealots, misfits, bigots and similar type creatures holding public office around the country and there is no one to step in and blow the whistle. Superman was a mythical figure and so is my national cop.

JERRY KREMER

Have you seem “Barbie?” Oops, I mean “Oppenheimer.” Oops, I mean “Barbieheimer” yet? If not, you will.

Not only will these two films win most of the Oscars this year. Since opening only two weeks ago “Barbie” has grossed over $190 million in box office receipts and “Oppenheimer” has grossed over $100 million in the same period. And this comes at a time when theaters have been empty for the last three years.

So what makes these two movies so captivating to the American mind? And why have these two diametrically opposite films been spliced together and marketed as a double feature? One film is covered in pink and orange and blonde tones with a plastic doll as the main character, while the other film is about death, guilt and darkness.

Let us take a moment to deconstruct these strangest of bedfellows.

“Barbie” was co-written and directed by Greta Gerwig and stars the blonde and ever smiling Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as the haplessly neutered Ken doll. The doll itself was invented by Ruth Handler, who was co-founder of Mattel Toys and saw a similar doll while on vacation in Germany and was inspired to bring this kind of doll to America in

1959. To give you an idea how popular this Barbie still is, in 2020 the gross earnings of Barbie and her accessories was over $1.3 billion.

From the very beginning of the film you know you’re in for a treat with a scene modeled after Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, “Space Odyssey: 2001.” In the Kubrick film you see apes on an African savannah 25,000 years ago. They are mysteriously visited by a tall monolith which enables the apes to learn that the large bones of dead animals can be used very effectively as weapons of destruction.

In the “Barbie” movie, Gerwig converts this into a scene of little girls playing peacefully with little baby dolls. They are visited by a giant monolithic Barbie which allows the little girls to revolt against this maternal role and take to smashing the little baby dolls and all other symbols of domestic tranquility. If there is such a thing as heaven and if Simone de Beauvoir is there, I can picture her smiling down at this scene with pride and satisfaction.

The “Barbie” film grapples with de Beauvoir’s basic existential question of being vs. becoming. In the “The Second Sex,” she carefully traced the 10,000-year history of mistreatment, marginalization and objectification endured by women. Girls are to learn

to be pretty, to be nice, to be good, to be sexy, and to be sweet. And the film “Barbie” does a pretty good job of addressing this problematic issue. Now on the other hand, we have this film “Oppenheimer,” which addresses the male obsession with power, aggression, destruction and death. “Oppenheimer” was directed by Christopher Nolan and focuses on the Manhattan Project, which was run by physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer in order to create an atomic bomb to be used on Japan to end World War II. With massive governmental support and the creation of a secret lab in Los Alamos, N.M., Oppenheimer gathered the best quantum physicists from Berkeley, Princeton and MIT to

EARTH MATTERS

Irecently drove to Washington, D.C., and back for work, and spent time thinking about what I was doing and if it was defensible. I was making an approximately 500-mile round trip alone during some of the hottest weather this country has ever experienced. It’s accepted that the current weather is a consequence of climate change and here I was spewing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

We can debate the value of individual decisions on combating climate change. Maybe my drive wasn’t a big deal, but maybe it was. I believe our individual choices matter, if only because they raise our awareness of bigger decisions about implementing large-scale solutions. They could also influence who we vote for.

Recently New York City announced its plan to institute congestion pricing. This is a significant large-scale policy to address pollution and climate change by changing individuals’ behavior. But is it going to be effective?

Congestion pricing, or Central Business District Tolling Alternative as it is officially known, is a tolling program for vehicles entering New

York City’s central business district, i.e., the area below 60th Street. This is a toll added on top of existing bridge and tunnel tolls to enter New York City. The purpose of the plan is to reduce traffic congestion and its resulting pollution to improve air quality and address climate change, and to generate revenue to improve the New York City subway and bus system.

On June 23 the Federal Highway Administration issued a finding of no significant impact on the human or natural environment due to the congestion pricing plan. The determination is based on the final environmental assessment and accompanying mitigation measures.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy is suing the Highway Administration on the basis that it failed to do a proper environmental review of the congestion pricing plan, which he contends will cause environmental harm. His argument is based on the finding in the environmental documents that there will be an increase in miles traveled by vehicles within New Jersey as a result of people trying to avoid the new tolls. This increase in vehicle mileage will be concentrated at certain times of day

get the job done.

The film shows how Oppenheimer slowly became aware of the power of his invention and also became aware that the government was in charge of this project not him. The conflict, pressure and guilt he experienced led to a near psychotic break, all of which was expertly shown by Nolan in this film. The end of the film produced one of many memorable lines as Einstein whispered into the ear of Oppenheimer that no man can possibly be ready to deal with the consequences of his achievements. My friend Bob Lipsyte of the New York Times always would remark “no good deed goes unpunished.”

Now to the question of how are these two seemingly opposing films have been wedded together. What part of the America’s collective unconscious gave birth to this odd twinship called “Barbenheimer” ?

Perhaps it relates to the polarization that characterizes America today. Red states vs. blue states. Democrats vs. Republicans. No dialogue, no middle ground. America in extremis. It’s all or nothing, black or white and no in between ground. If your’e a girl. you must be 5-foot-9, slender, sexy, young, curvaceous, an adventurer, blonde, sweet, and non-threatening. And the men don’t get off any easier. You not only have to be powerful

but also a genius, work at Princeton, be connected to secret agencies in the government and show off your power by making an atomic bomb that kills an overabundance of people. And the tragic irony is that you get crucified when you succeed.

Oppenheimer was scapegoated as an atonement for America’s guilt over the dropping of the bomb. Walter Davis’ book “Deracination” explores American guilt in this regard, and I’m sure Christopher Nolan used Davis as a consultant.

Another line in “Oppenheimer“ was “Amateurs seek the sun.The powerful stay in the shadows.” The film showed that the puppet master was government and it lurks in the shadows. In “Barbie” the puppet master was and remains the toy company Mattel, which as I said makes a fast billion dollars a year merchandising Barbie.

Go see these two movies. One is about the power of feminine beauty and the other is about the power of masculine aggression. Freud was right all along when he said there are only two basic instincts that drive mankind: the life instinct and the death instinct.

Oppenheimer said, “I am become Death the destroyer of worlds” Barbie could respond in kind by saying, “I am become Life…the maker of worlds.”

Barbie, the bomb make strange bedfellows Congestion pricing could make a difference

other highways leading to an overall decrease regionally. To address the potential increase in traffic on circumferential highways, the sponsors of the congestion pricing plan (New York State Department of Transportation, Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, New York City Department of Transportation) will implement a three-month monitoring plan to collect data on traffic after tolling starts.

LYNN SINGBAND Earth Matters

and in certain parts of New Jersey, thereby increasing the environmental harm to the people in those areas. According to the final environment assessment, there is a projected decrease in traffic not only in the area subject to the toll, but in the surrounding region, including circumferential highways. Though some circumferential highways will see an increase, according to the analysis of the studies, there would be a reduction in traffic on

If set thresholds are reached or crossed, Transportation Demand Management measures like ramp metering and motorist education will be instituted. If monitoring shows traffic continuing to exceed thresholds, the sponsors will modify toll rates, crossing credits, exemptions and/or discounts within the area subject to tolls to reduce adverse effects. The projected decrease in traffic will improve bus times and the revenue will enable improvements to the subway system.

Interestingly, there are mitigation measures planned if transit ridership increases so as to increase the time it takes to get up stairs and escalators. One year from implementation of the tolling, the sponsors will publish a report based on data from

monitoring traffic, air quality, and ridership among other things.

The Natural Resources Defense Council contends congestion pricing will have positive environmental impacts. By lowering traffic, pollution from highway traffic will be reduced. There is also significant evidence that low-income households are disproportionately located near pollution sources like highways and so will benefit from the traffic reduction.

New York City is not the first city to institute congestion pricing. It is in place in London, Singapore, Stockholm and elsewhere. Studies from London and Stockholm show increases in the number of years people live and a reduction in children’s hospital visits for asthma by half after congestion pricing.

Though we won’t know for certain how well congestion pricing will work in terms of environmental benefits, based on available information, the indication is this is a policy that we should support. We can still drive our cars, maybe even to D.C., but when going into New York City, where public transit options are extensive, it will be discouraged and will cost you.

DR. TOM FERRARO Our Town

Questioning Kings Pt. park lease, concert

After hearing the details of the lease with the Village of Kings Point that Great Neck Park District signed to continue to operate and manage the 173-acre Kings Point Park for the benefit of all park district residents, I can understand better the more troubling aspects.

These include the tenfold increase in annual “rent” from $35,000 to $350,000 and an obligation to obtain $15 million in funding in the next two years to spend on improvements to Kings Point Park ($10 million) and other parkland within Kings Point village such as Steppingstone Park and the newly acquired parcel adjacent ($5 million) within five years.

Or the village can void the agreement. But those of us who want to preserve the last major parcel of undeveloped forest and protected wetlands remain skeptical.

What about the $15 million? At the meeting, Great Neck Park Superintendent Jason Marra went through much of the agreement, giving examples of some of the 27 items or projects that the district could choose to develop in the park without needing village approval – or, for that matter, park residents’ approval either since the district does not have to submit a bond to the voters, only to the Town of North Hempstead. He explained that none of the projects are actually planned, but they wanted to come up with a comprehensive list – anything they could imagine – to have maximum flexibility.

As for the $350,000 annual rent, Marra explained that they had an appraisal done which suggested that a “market rate” rental would be even more, $381,000, and that Kings Point’s own appraiser had come up with a figure of $650,000, so they are gen-

erously only asking $350,000. Really? Wouldn’t that be if the land, which is encumbered as parkland and protected wetlands, was actually developed for a private use? And wouldn’t Kings Point Village have to compensate the park district for the tennis courts, athletic fields, bridges and structures if it took the park back? (The lease also provides for 10 percent increases for each of the renewals.)

What I realized, though, was that this was compensation for the Kings Point residents who pay a big share of the park taxes, some $2 million (because their homes are the most expensive in the park district). I thought that the threat to the park district was losing access to Kings Point Park (and the village was bluffing), but actually the threat was losing Kings Point to the park district, like Great Neck Estates and Saddle Rock.

The terms of the lease actually keep Kings Point village within the park district at least for 10 years (the legal term), with automatic renewal for the next 10, 20 and 30 years. As Kings Point Mayor Kouros (Chris) Torkan said at the meeting, he wanted to do his best to insure Kings Point Park stays within the park district regardless of who succeeds him. Indeed, there is a penalty to the Village if they pull out in the first 10 years: the $10 million invested in Kings Point Park plus another $10 million.

On the morning the lease was to be signed by the park district, Kings Point brought an additional provision: if the park district is unable to obtain bonding of $15 million in two years, the village can terminate the lease without penalty.

How might the park district spend the obligatory $10 million? Superintendent Marra rattled off a list: bike trails, parking area, forest restora-

KAREN RUBIN View Point

tion, tree planting and maintenance, stream and wetland restoration, playgrounds, adult fitness, indoor/outdoor athletic facilities, indoor/outdoor tennis, pickleball courts, dog run or park, miniature golf course, golf, restrooms, nature center, sledding hill, ropes course, paddle tennis courts, picnic shelters. (Not all the $15 million in mandated improvements would be funded from bonding, some could come from grants from agencies, including the NYS DEC.)

Park watchers raised a related concern: the massive Mashadi community center that is going up on Steamboat Road abutting Kings Point Park and seeking variances of more than 30 feet in height with minimal setbacks and no parking. There is concern that the Village of Kings Point is being wooed into selling off two acres of Kings Point Park for parking (which would require state legislators to approve “alienation” of parkland) or that an “improvement” to Kings Point would be a new parking field that would mainly be used by the Mashadi center.

READERS WRITE

I feel right to be skeptical, judging by policies affecting Steppingstone Park.

This is the second year where the Steppingstone concert season has had a blockbuster concert by a famous rapper — Flo-Rida — aimed at drawing 5,000 to 7,000 (the number this year, when ticket distribution was cut off) into the park. More typical of a concert would be 500 to 1,000.

But now let’s examine the cost –and the risk/reward — of mounting a concert aimed at appealing to those who otherwise don’t care to come to a concert.

The cost of $100,000-$200,000 has meant that four Sunday night concerts have been dropped in favor of low-cost Sunday afternoon events that draw few people. And there are lots of other costs, including an army of security guards, overtime for park workers, higher production costs, and operating a battery of shuttle buses to bring people from faraway parking lots.

And then there is the “rain or shine” aspect – and the fact that galeforce winds and the possibility of thunderstorms were forecast. Around 8 p.m. Sunday when only 2,000 concertgoers were there, a sudden wind burst blew the EMS tent across the field, hitting a woman in the head who had to be taken to hospital. Moments later, a sudden downpour caused hundreds of people to dash to the building to get under cover, but gates around the make-shift bar barred entry. The drenching rain moved out fairly quickly, but that was followed by lightning flashes and thunder. Everyone took it in stride.

But what would have happened if the rain, wind, thunder and lightning had struck an hour later in the dark nd lasted longer, with 5,000 to 7,000

people jammed together without shelter and no way to get to safety?

The storm was one reason why the concert was delayed from starting at 9 p.m. to close to 10 p.m. – but that worked out for the hundreds and hundreds of people who waited 40 minutes for a shuttle bus, then waited on lines that stretched almost to the Merchant Marine Academy for 40 minutes more to show their ticket and get through the gate at 10 pm. People were leaving by 11 pm, fearful of getting caught in a crush (I left at 11:15 pm); the concert ended at 11:45 pm, and I’m told the park was empty by 12:45 am, a full hour later (the shuttle bus takes 40-60 minutes to circuit).

This is not to say the event was not well managed –thanks to Superintendent Marra and the park workers — and the concertgoers seemed to really have a good time. I just question why we need such a blockbuster event, especially if it means taking away the four Sunday night concerts. Is the anxiety, the stress and the effort worth it to offer a FOMO event?

Many (including me) are resentful of the massive VIP tent (what does that say about a community park?) that has been erected, where for $75, you get a seat, liquor and food; as well as the creation of a “boatyard” – two boats on the grass where they sell liquor. These structures, which stay up the entire season, destroy what is the most precious part of Steppingstone Park: the unobstructed view of the water and the tranquility that brings. Priceless.

We are told we have the park board to thank for bringing Flo-Rida to Great Neck. Based on that, I think we are justified to be vigilant over what “improvements” they make to Kings Point Park.

Congressional hearings keep electeds accountable

What do UFOs, LIV Golf, artificial intelligence and IRS whistleblowers all have in common? They are just a few of the subjects addressed in the more than 1,000 congressional hearings held in 2023 thus far. While the number of congressional hearings held each year can vary widely, depending on factors such as legislative agenda, issues requiring oversight and the political climate, the 118th Congress is on pace to be one of the busiest on

record.

For most of us, these hearings can be frustrating to watch. The amount of political grandstanding and filibustering that occur can leave the average person exhausted – and the fact that few result in a new law causes one to become disinterested in the entire process. Having said all this, congressional hearings play an essential role in promoting democratic principles, accountability and public engagement, and are more than just a distinctive

feature of the U.S. government. The frequency and openness of these hearings, combined with their unique scope and powers, distinguishes the U.S. government from all other countries and serve to protect, We the People.

For congressional members, hearings remain an essential part of the legislative process because they allow for lawmakers to gather information useful in their decision-making. For U.S. citizens, open hearings on policy matters allow us to witness elected

officials in action and listen to expert testimony firsthand. This level of accessibility underscores the principles of transparency into the legislative process and public engagement.

Equally as important, hearings are a vehicle for congressional members to fulfill their oversight responsibilities. Congressional committees have significant powers of investigation, including issuing subpoenas, compelling witnesses to testify under oath, and accessing sensitive documents – all re-

quired tools for achieving accountability and providing public awareness. While other countries may have their own forms of legislative scrutiny, the scale and visibility of U.S. congressional hearings is unparalleled. We do ourselves a disservice when we fail to appreciate this powerful mechanism that citizens in other countries would welcome the opportunity to have.

Jim Toes Manhasset

Heights, NY 11577.

Set schedules to avoid religious holidays

Iam writing in reference to the July 24 article regarding the New Hyde Park Street Fair. I am grateful to NHP officials for listening to the voices of our community and changing the date of the street fair so that it no longer conflicts with Rosh Hashanah. However, it has been painful to me to witness the tenor of the conversation that has taken place with regard to this issue and, in particular, the disrespect shown to Donald Panetta, a Temple Tikvah member, when he brought up this issue and again in the July 24 article in your publication.

I have been a resident of the greater New Hyde Park area for over 20 years. One of the things I have always appreciated about this com-

munity is our diversity. As rabbi of Temple Tikvah, I have worked hard to build bridges between the various faith communities in our area, and I take pride in the spirit of respect and tolerance that we have built.

Rosh HaShanah begins the Jewish New Year; it and Yom Kippur frame the holiest period in the Jewish calendar. Its importance to the Jewish faith is equal to Easter Sunday or Christmas Day to Christians or Eid to Muslims. If we want to continue to live up to our values, we need to be more careful in scheduling public town events that respect the religious calendars of the various residents of our neighborhood. A

simple consultation of any secular calendar during the planning of an event, or a phone call to a local clergy leader would help prevent such mishaps in the future.

I am grateful to Donald Panetta, and to the others who spoke up about this issue to bring about the change that has ensued. May we all find the courage to speak out when we see something wrong and may we together continue to build the kind of community we aspire to be.

Rabbi Randy Sheinberg Temple Tikvah of New Hyde Park

Happy 32rd anniversary for the ADA Act

Let us all celebrate the 32nd anniversary for the Americans With Disabilities Act. This was signed into law by former President George H.W. Bush on July 26, 1990. The Federal Transit Administration has done an excellent job during this period when it comes to improving public transit to be in compliance with ADA. Billions of dollars in FTA grants to over 900 transit agencies across America have paid for tens of thousands of buses, paratransit vans, light rail, subway cars, commuter rail and ferries that are ADA accessible. Many of these transportation

facilities now are outfitted with elevators and/or ramps that have also become ADA compliant.

The United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration will announce notice of funding availability sometime soon. This is an opportunity for the NY MTA and other transit agencies around the nation to apply for a share of the $333 million under the new national competitive All Stations Accessibility Program. Funds can be used to pay for station rehabilitation work, including elevators and ramps, along with visual

or audible aids to assist riders in accessing the system. The deadline to apply will probably be Sept. 30. The program will total $1.75 billion over five years.

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a former Director for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

Assault on truth in education in U.S. is real

“Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.”

George Orwell, “1984”

Thank you for your sobering and accurate editorial “Oppose White Washing of Slavery, Banning of Books” against revisionist history, and in support of civil liberties, including the First Amendment rights to share ideas, to religious expression and to peaceably assemble.

I join in thanking, respectively, the presidents of the Holocaust Tolerance and Memorial Center and library boards and you for bringing a national message home to our local community.

The very dynamics you describe are what compelled me to run (and what was experienced during my re-election campaign as Great Neck’s Board of Education president, which you referenced) last spring. The remaining views expressed in this letter are personal and my own.

It seems to me that the prevalence of cancel culture, and its ongoing backlashes, continue to erode regard for history, civic institutions, the rule of law and legal precedent as far as the eye can see.

Recall that nowadays, in addition to “Maus,” and “The Diary of Anne Frank,” even Sesame Street, Arthur, and Dr. Seuss are controversial. Statues and curricula have literally and figuratively been

upended around the country.

In lieu of expecting and holding to account the intellectual rigor necessary for critical inquiry to interrogate texts, cancel culture demands thought-free safe zones, which preclude reasoned discourse or debate.

Simultaneously, cancel culture divides by fomenting conspiracy theories against Jewish Caucasians (a contradiction in terms in Mizrahi Jews’ experience) and also against other minority groups. Peddling a historical fact-free revisionist histories, aka “alternate facts,” whether regarding enslavement of African Americans or the annihilation of millions of Jews and others during the Holocaust, (or for that matter the continued omissions of the lived experiences of women, Asian Americans, Latinos, LBGTQ persons and others from history) undermines not only “History” but also due process and civil liberties. As Orwell observed, undermining history also guts the present and future. Policy and law-making in the United States seem to have been reduced to shallow identity politics and litmus tests rather than legal principles such as historical precedent.

This is readily observed in the canceling and intimidation of the individual viewpoints of students, teachers, administrators, job seekers, office-seekers and others, as your editorial suggests. Is it any wonder that ideas are chilled when self-proclaimed “Truth” echo

chambers engage in “woke traps” to record unwitting targets and destroy careers by sharing recordings which spread like wildfire on social media, as in the recent local example you reported?

I have to believe we would all be better served if the complexity of lived experiences of humanity (whether Jews, Christian, Muslin, atheist, blacks, women, men, Asians, LBGTQ) are not negated but appropriately represented in fact-checked, annotated, historical accounts in literature, in humanities, music, the arts and cinema

Yet, in today’s warped echo chambers, Orwellian, Florida-style authoritarian legislation and encroachments on curriculum actually could happen anywhere, including here. (To be candid, we might also well claim that the state of New York has had its own bouts of authoritarianism since the COVID mandates.)

All the while, the highest court in the land, the U.S. Supreme Court, will likely continue to overturn decades of settled legal precedent whether gutting women’s bodily integrity or shifting the ground under the feet of students applying to college seeking affirmative action, and who knows what next.

Worrisome, indeed. Backlash is real.

Rebecca Sassouni Great Neck

Troubling Great Neck Park District event

Several years ago, I went skiing at Hunter Mountain. In the locker room, I witnessed the “professionalism training” of their staff.

From the statements made by the trainer (e.g., stay professional all the time, be extremely courteous, never forget that you are going to do your best to provide the best experiences to the visitors…), it seemed that the training was being done routinely on a regular basis in order to get the most professional/courteous behavior out of their staff.

The staff were all wearing uniforms with name plaques.

Last Saturday night my family went to the concert organized by Great Neck Park District at Steppingstone Park in Kings Point.

Since there was a shortage of parking spots near the entrance of the concert, my wife called her friend who lives near the park and asked her if we could park in the driveway and she replied “there are plenty of spaces and of course you can park in our driveway.”

At the intersection two blocks away from her house, two nonuniformed individuals were blocking the road and did not allow us to enter into the road leading to the house. My wife, who was driving,

explained to them that we are going to a friend’s home and we were going to park in their driveway and not on the street — to no avail.

One of the two individuals said that you have to show me your ID that you live there! No matter how hard my wife tried to explain to them that we didn’t live there and we were given permission by the owners to park in a private driveway, they refused to let us in in disbelief!

I was sitting in the passenger seat and I was not able to speak with them, so I got out of the car in order to assure them that we were going to a private home and not park on the streets.

However, the other individual tried to intimidate me by threatening: “You could get arrested.” I replied that you could get arrested for illegally not letting us into where we were going to park legally at a private home where we are given permission.

It seems that these non-uniformed staff are also non-trained and they believe that they contain legislative, judicial and executive powers within themselves.

Instead of expansion of the territory, maybe the park district should spend their resources to train their staff and get rid of the

individuals who are not trainable. This would only serve the best interest of the taxpayers who are to be serviced.

Of note, the concert was inappropriate for the audience present at the event who predominantly were families. There were vulgar vocabulary and dances of females with buttock movements toward the audience. The use of such vocabulary and “sexy buttock dances” is not allowed even on television.

Maybe, the park district should look more carefully into the appropriateness of the concerts prior to spending an exorbitant portion of the taxpayers’ funds for the events to be held at Great Neck parks.

Maybe the park district should have their staff uniformed with name plaques so they act more responsibly. If that doesn’t work, then they may wish to put them through regularly scheduled “professionalism training.”

Fred Bassali, Ph.D. Great Neck

Larry Penner Great Neck

Ex-businessman Harvey Grant’s 2nd act as a performer

BY KARINA KOVAC

In both music and business, Harvey Granat has risen to the top, which he attributes to the art of selling by either pitching to prospects or marketing his vocal talents. Putting his musical ambitions as a performer on hold, he built a successful business career until two decades ago when he started singing professionally in his mid-60s.

Born and raised in the Five Towns and a resident of Great Neck for over 30 years, Port Washington and the Berkshires, Granat’s journey as a cabaret singer, lecturer, Broadway producer and music historian started during his discovery of his “unusual voice” in adolescence.

His experiences in both the music industry and the world of finance have led him to master the art of selling, whether by captivating an audience with his performances or impressing potential business partners.

“Music has always been an important part of my family,” Granat said. In childhood, the sounds and influence of the Great American Standards shaped his musical interests. This, coupled with his unique voice, paved the way for him to perform at various school events, charity functions and family gatherings.

With a strong on-pitch voice, Granat was a natural performer, but he focused instead on building his business in equipment leasing and beginning his collection of valuable composer manuscripts and letters. Currently, he is a Managing Director of CSG Partners, the country’s leading employee stock ownership plans advisory firm. “I have a lot of partners in that so that allows me to do more performing,” he said.

Songbook for over 20 years.

His business success enabled him to pursue singing “in a more important way for myself, and I guess one of the first things I did was got involved with C.W. Post,” Granat said. For five years, he led successful programs that combined performances with insightful lectures about the American Songbook. Each program focused on different composers or lyricists, and during this time he was hitting his “own personal bullseye.”

Sharing the historical context of the melodies and lyrics made students really listen to the pieces and retain them. Granat often taught

Gershwin, drawing from his own collection of manuscripts and letters that he later donated a portion to the Library of Congress. Dubbed the Granat, George and Ira Gershwin Collection, about 30 items he donated to the library are available for scholarly discussion and analysis.

Describing his journey as both a performer and a collector of musical treasures, Granat recalls the pivotal moment when he shared his collection of precious Gershwin letters and manuscripts with singer, pianist and musicrevivalist Michael Feinstein, his friend and a colleague.

He remembers seeing him at a club in Man-

hattan, about two decades ago before Feinstein started Feinstein’s at the Regency, and told him he had a collection of highly valuable Gershwin letters and manuscripts. The result was Feinstein playing the original manuscript of “They Can’t Take That Away from Me.”

“It was thrilling, that was our connection,” Granat said. Later Granat handed Feinstein a CD of him singing that he would give family and friends. Feinstein told him he should sing professionally.

Six months later, Granat told Feinstein his dream was to perform at his club and asked would it be possible for him to perform there. Feinstein told him he only booked big stars with big audiences, “I have a big family,” Granat replied.

Over the years, Granat has performed as a cabaret singer at venues such as the Stephen C. Widom Cultural Arts at Temple Emanuel in Great Neck, Canyon Ranch in Lenox, MA, and numerous other venues.

Drawing parallels between his music career and business ventures, Granat said it’s all about knowing how to sell yourself. “I don’t have an agent,” he said, “I don’t have a manager. And yet I’ve gotten into some of the greatest venues and the most wonderful series and programs. Because in my business career, I’ve learned how to sell, how to get the door open, how to make a presentation.”

A highlight for Granat was his role in arranginga special concert in conjunction with the Sinatra Centennial performed at Lincoln Center Library for the Performing Arts, which was pared with a major exhibit and panel discussions for the occasion.

“I did my homework and found out who was running the whole thing,” Granat recalled, “And I said, ‘How about a show? How about a Frank Sinatra show? I said, you know, I produced Sammy Cahn on Broadway, the four-time Academy Award winning songwriter who wrote more lyrics for Frank Sinatra than any other lyricist. I said if I put a program together, Frank Sinatra with lyrics by Sammy Cahn, would that be of interest? And the woman wrote back to me, and she said, You got it! Let’s book it.”

It was backstage the night of the performance that he thought to himself “you did it, kid.”

As Granat continues to perform and educate, he reflects “I live a good life now,” content in his pursuits and his “wonderful family,” including eight grandchildren. “I’m in a good place and (I’d) like to be able to stay in this place and continue the good balance that I have in my life.”

In childhood, the sounds and influence of the Great American Standards shaped his musical interests. This, coupled with his unique voice, paved the way for him to perform at various school events, charity functions and family gatherings.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HARVEY GRANAT

Former businessman Harvey Granat has been performing and lecturing on the Great American

DESIGN HOME

Know what’s below before digging, excavating

New York 811 reminds the public and contractors that it is important to “know what’s below” the ground before digging and excavating.

Every year on Aug. 11, “National 811 Day,” New York 811 highlights actions and rules that will keep construction workers, contractors, residents and the public safe anytime digging or excavation is done on public as well as private property.

Each year across New York City and Long Island, tens of thousands of construction projects and repairs require digging and excavation. The potential for minor, as well as severe life-threatening accidents around digging sites, is real.

In the United States, the cost to repair these damages has reached $30 billion annually.

Because of the dangers, contractors, builders, property owners and homeowners need to call 811 to provide information so that digging locations can be properly marked to ensure that the locations of all utility lines, including electric, gas, water, sewer and communications lines are known. When lines are marked,digging with excavation equipment or by hand can be done safely.

“Keeping contractors, utility workers, homeowners and the public safe is our mission. Utility lines are struck every day in the United States. When they are damaged, this leads to power outages, loss of gas,water service or telecommunications and internet outages that could last days or weeks.National811 Day serves as our public educational and awareness day across Long Island and New York City,” said Roger Sampson, executive director of New York 811.

All contractors using power equipment follow state law and call 8-1-1 before starting an

excavation project, whether it is large or small. This includes general digging for gardening, landscaping, pool installations, any and all construction projects, demolitions and excavations.

When contacting New York 811, callers are automatically connected to a call center where they will share information about their upcoming project. New York 811 then contacts the utility companies who will mark the ground with paint and/or flags to identify underground utility lines. The following colors indicate what lines lie beneath the surface in your area:

Red: Electric utilities such as power lines (Most common color)

Yellow: Natural Gas, Petroleum and Steam

Orange: Communication lines including telephone, internet and TV lines

Blue: Water and Irrigation

Purple: Non-Potable Water

Green: Drains and Sewers

White: Planned Excavation

Pink: Temporary Markings

New York 811, Inc., is a non-profit organization that acts as the communications link between utility companies and contractors, individuals, private excavation companies and other utilities that are planning any digging activity in the five boroughs of New York City and Nassau and Suffolk Counties on Long Island.

New York 811 provides services and programs that play a critical role in protecting one of the largest populated, congested and complicated underground infrastructures in the nation. For further information about National 811 Day, New York 811 or other questions you may have about digging, please visit, https://newyork-811.com/.

Death cleaning for the living is healthy

As we know all too well, death is a natural and certain part of life.

Saying goodbye to a loved one may range from difficult to devastating, no matter how complicated a relationship we may have had with them. Whether you have had the personal experience of cleaning out the belongings of your own loved ones who have passed or have helped those going through the process, you know how challenging it can be, often made more so by the unique dynamics of or conflicts

present within families.

When we leave this earth, we don’t necessarily know how those we leave behind will manage and mourn us. We can’t always protect them from the emotional burden of our loss, but we can do them the enormous service of lessening their physical burden.

At the end of life, one’s assets typically end up the subjects of an appraiser’s spreadsheet, resigned to the attic of a family member, or ultimately, in the trash. It is rare that the things

we held onto in life with such a fierce grip will have the same meaning or value (monetary or otherwise) to others, so it’s a selfless gift to consider our heirs while we acquire those things.

Consider implementing the following tactics and practices into your daily life that will ultimately serve to protect your loved ones and allow you to focus on what truly matters.

Take stock of your belongings. Whether you live in a single house, across multiple houses, or have items spilling into storage units, take some time to assess everything you own. If you have items in storage, ask yourself why they’re there.

Are you saving them for someone? If so, ask that person if they want those items. If neither you nor they have any interest, donate or sell the items, stop spending money on storage costs, and save your family members from the grueling and guilt-ridden process of having to decide what to do with those items once you’re gone.

Think about more than just yourself when you make purchases.

Honestly ask, “Is this something I truly love, need, and will use? Or will it be just another item that someone else will have to make a decision about when I’m gone?” If it’s the latter, save yourself the money and space, and save your family members from having to try to figure out if this item is something they should hold onto and then burden the next generation with.

Create a will and be as specific as possible. Don’t make verbal promises that the executor of your estate can’t keep.

Steer clear of categories that leave too much to interpretation and would necessitate the hiring of outside parties to properly distribute your assets. If you are leaving the contents of your home “equally” to more than one person, try to outline which items go to which people, eradicating the need for someone to come in and place a dollar value on every item you’ve ever owned.

Remember that an item is ultimately only worth what someone is willing to pay for it, so as valuable as you believe that set of teacups is, it may only yield a profit of $25, costing far more than that in the time and resources it took to value and sell it.

Spend money on experiences. The most valuable things we can pass down are memories. In spending our time and money on experiential pursuits, and in sharing those pursuits with loved ones, we are passing down something that money can’t buy, and in doing so, avoiding the acquisition of items that will ultimately cause stress, decision fatigue, and further expended resources.

Samantha Karp Weitzman, Esq. (@thewellcuratedcloset) is a licensed attorney and property and casualty insurance broker with a passion and affinity for efficiency and frugality, achieved through home organization.

Sights and sounds that indicate floors should be replaced soon

Wood floor cleaning guide

Nice flooring draws immediate attention when entering a home Natural wood floors tend to instantly impress, while the right kitchen flooring materials can create the welcoming feeling many homeowners strive to establish in the most popular room in the home. Stunning floors are hard to miss, and floors that are well past their prime are equally noticeable. Aging floors may fall somewhere between fading and failing to live up to homeowners’ standards Fading floors may not need to be replaced immediately, but the following are some signs that indicate existing floors are nearing their expiration date.

• Soft spots: A floor should not give when stepped on. Soft spots could be indicative of water damage caused by any number of factors Some water damage is caused by mopping the floor with a soaking wet mop, while burst pipes also contribute to water damage that can cause soft spots. A single soft spot on the floor may necessitate a relatively simple repair, but various soft spots indicate extensive damage that might be affecting the floor, subflooring or both In the latter instance, homeowners should consider a full floor replacement.

• Creaking floors: Creaking floors are among the more annoying issues that can arise in a home. In such homes, residents feel as though every

step they or their housemates take is being announced In addition, creaking floors can awake light sleepers, including young children

The floor experts at Discount Flooring Depot note that uneven subfloor could be the culprit behind creaking floors. Though that does not necessarily require a floor replacement, it can be hard to lift existing floors and then refit them after the subflooring has been addressed That’s especially so if low-quality laminate flooring was installed. So while creaking floors may not require a full floor replacement, it’s an outcome homeowners who can no longer live with the noise can prepare themselves for

• Dated look: Of course, some floors simply look like the product of a bygone era Various factors, including location, affect the resale value of a home, but Realtor.com reports that hardwood floors are preferred by both home buyers and renters In addition, Realtor com estimates that wood floors could provide a return as high as 80 percent of the initial investment when homeowners sell their homes. If existing flooring looks dated, it might be time to bring it up to speed with something more modern

A home’s flooring is bound to draw the attention of residents and visitors alike Homeowners who replace their flooring can ensure that attention is drawn for all the right reasons

Wood floors are coveted for a number of reasons, not the least of which is their aesthetic appeal Many people prefer wood flooring because dust and dirt do not become trapped as they would in carpet fibers, seemingly making wood flooring easy to clean. Most floors endure a lot of wear and tear However, with care, wood flooring may last for decades. Part of that care includes understanding how to properly clean and maintain wood floors so they look their best The following are some steps for keeping wood floors as pristine as possible

• Remove shoes. It’s a good idea to remove shoes, particularly heels, when walking on wood floors Sharp heels, cleats and other shoes can scratch or dent wood flooring. All shoes can track in excess dirt, which can contribute to a lack of luster as well

• Sweep or vacuum frequently. The experts at The Spruce suggest sweeping, vacuuming or dust mopping wood floors daily Dirt and dust make floors more slippery, and dirt or sand particles can lead to scratches on the floor.

• Learn your flooring type Wood flooring is broken down into three main categories: solid hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood flooring and laminate wood flooring

Traditional hardwood is made of planks or strips of any hardwood covered in a wood stain. Engineered flooring is manufactured by gluing together several thin plies of hardwood Laminate flooring looks like wood but generally is a veneer or a photographic image of wood covered by a thick layer of melamine resin over fiberboard.

• Skip harsh cleansers. Regardless of flooring type, most are covered by a sealant that can become streaky or dull if the wrong cleanser is used Avoid chlorine bleach, ammonia, pine oil, or undiluted vinegar. Instead, choose a cleanser that is specifically recommended for the flooring type Do not allow water or solutions to sit on the floor, as that can contribute to staining and warping With laminate flooring, avoid wet mopping unless the flooring is specifically marked as being able to be wet The underlayers of laminate flooring can warp if it gets wet

• Damp is better than wet. When cleaning wood flooring, use a damp rather than a soaking wet mop Better Homes & Gardens says standing water can damage wood surfaces.

• Use the hard floor setting. When vacuuming, adjust the vacuum to a hard flooring setting, which will not engage the brush rollers on the vacuum head Rollers can scratch wood and laminate flooring, advises The Home Depot

• Use repair products as needed. Scratch and repair kits can fill in small scratches Wood floor polish and wood waxes also can revitalize worn floors Again, check that the product is safe for your particular flooring before use.

Wood floors bring warmth to a home and are very popular. Cleaning them correctly can add to their appeal and longevity

know about kitchen countertop materials

What to know about kitchen countertop materials

Kitchens are the busiest rooms in most homes Kitchens have become more than just places to prepare meals, with many functioning as gathering spaces and even go-to dining spots in homes that do not feature formal dining rooms

KSo much time spent in the kitchen makes it worthwhile to invest in these popular spaces Kitchen

itchens are the busiest rooms in most homes Kitchens have become more than just places to prepare meals, with many functioning as gathering spaces and even go-to dining spots in homes that do not feature formal dining rooms

So much time spent in the kitchen makes it worthwhile to invest in these popular spaces Kitchen renovations are high on many homeowners’ to-do lists, and there’s many decisions to make once they commit to redoing the room. When renovating a kitchen, homeowners will have to choose which countertop material they want to install, and the following rundown of popular options can help simplify that decision.

renovations are high on many homeowners’ to-do lists, and there’s many decisions to make once they commit to redoing the room When renovating a kitchen, homeowners will have to choose which countertop material they want to install, and the following rundown of popular options can help simplify that decision

Quartz

Laminate

Quartz

Quartz is considered a lowmaintenance and durable countertop material The home improvement experts at This Old House note that quartz countertops are typically 94 percent ground quartz and now come with an honed, sandblasted or embossed treatment, which makes them appealing to homeowners with varying ideas on the ideal look of a kitchen countertop Quartz can crack if it’s not handled properly, and edges and corners can chip over time Rounded edges can minimize the risk of chipping. Costs vary by location and product availability, but quartz typically costs about the same as natural stone

Laminate

Laminate countertops appeal to budget-friendly homeowners and Consumer Reports notes that they’re easy to install. Home Depot also notes that laminate countertops come in a wide range of colors, textures and designs Laminate countertops also are durable, which helps budgetconscious homeowners stretch their dollars even further. Laminate countertops are easily maintained, though it’s also easy to permanently damage them with knives, so Consumer Reports recommends always using a cutting board when preparing meals on laminate.

Granite

Quartz is considered a lowmaintenance and durable countertop material The home improvement experts at This Old House note that quartz countertops are typically 94 percent ground quartz and now come with an honed, sandblasted or embossed treatment, which makes them appealing to homeowners with varying ideas on the ideal look of a kitchen countertop. Quartz can crack if it’s not handled properly, and edges and corners can chip over time

Rounded edges can minimize the risk of chipping Costs vary by location and product availability, but quartz typically costs about the same as natural stone

Granite

Consumer Reports notes that no two slabs of granite are the same, and that uniqueness has long appealed to homeowners. Tests run by Consumer Reports found that heat, cuts and scratches did not harm granite, though this material, like quartz, can crack around edges and corners Granite is a durable material that, if properly maintained, can last several decades Granite also is nonporous, which makes it resistant to bacteria

Consumer Reports notes that no two slabs of granite are the same, and that uniqueness has long appealed to homeowners Tests run by Consumer Reports found that heat, cuts and scratches did not harm granite, though this material, like quartz, can crack around edges and corners

Granite is a durable material that, if properly maintained, can last several decades. Granite also is nonporous, which makes it resistant to bacteria

STONE STORE Advertiser Here

Butcher Block

Laminate countertops appeal to budget-friendly homeowners and Consumer Reports notes that they’re easy to install Home Depot also notes that laminate countertops come in a wide range of colors, textures and designs Laminate countertops also are durable, which helps budgetconscious homeowners stretch their dollars even further Laminate countertops are easily maintained, though it’s also easy to permanently damage them with knives, so Consumer Reports recommends always using a cutting board when preparing meals on laminate

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are among the more unique options homeowners may consider Sometimes referred to as “wood countertops,” butcher block countertops are made from wooden strips that are fused together The home improvement experts at BobVila com note that butcher block is among the more affordable materials, but the final cost will be dictated by location and availability BobVila.com notes that butcher block countertops are highly sensitive to liquid, so exposure to

Butcher block countertops are among the more unique options homeowners may consider Sometimes referred to as “wood countertops,” butcher block countertops are made from wooden strips that are fused together. The home improvement experts at BobVila com note that butcher block is among the more affordable materials, but the final cost will be dictated by location and availability. BobVila.com notes that butcher block countertops are highly sensitive to liquid, so exposure to

moisture should be limited Sealing butcher block countertops immediately after installation can help protect against bacteria and warping Though butcher blocks can be high maintenance, many homeowners find the unique look is well worth the extra elbow grease. Kitchen countertops can define how the hav wh

moisture should be limited. Sealing butcher block countertops immediately after installation can help protect against bacteria and warping Though butcher blocks can be high maintenance, many homeowners find the unique look is well worth the extra elbow grease Kitchen countertops can define how the room looks, and homeowners have many options to choose from when designing a new kitchen

LUMBER STORE Advertiser Here

Small renovations that make a big difference

Inflation and the looming threat of a recession have led many homeowners to emphasize smaller projects.

Home renovation projects were high on homeowners’ priority lists during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic Throughout much of 2020, people across the globe were forced to spend much of their time at home as leaders and governments across the globe sought to prevent the spread of COVID-19 More time at home compelled millions of homeowners to invest more in their properties, thus sparking a renovation boom.

By early 2023, the renovation boom that marked the initial days of the pandemic appeared to have burst. In May 2023, the popular home improvement retailer Home Depot reported its sales had fallen by 4 5 percent in the first quarter of the year and that its income had fallen by more than 6 percent from the same period a year earlier That marked the end of what Home Depot CEO Ted Decker characterized as “a three-year period of unprecedented growth” in the home improvement sector.

Home Depot’s decline in sales was attributed to a number of factors, including a pivot among homeowners from large projects to smaller renovations Inflation and the looming threat of a recession have led many homeowners to emphasize smaller projects With that in mind, the following are some small renovations that can have a big impact

• Storage addition: Regardless of where storage is added, be it the kitchen or a home office or a laundry room, extra space to keep items out of view can dramatically alter the look of a home Unused kitchen walls can be transformed with some inexpensive, easily hanged shelves,

while some laundry pedestals with storage drawers can help keep washrooms clear of clutter

• Polish floors: Elbow grease might be the biggest expenditure when cleaning hardwood floors The wood flooring experts at Bona® advise homeowners to polish their floors once every two to four months depending on how much foot traffic the floors get A fresh polishing can make floors look brand new and ensures dirt and dust are not hanging around as uninvited houseguests

• Paint: Painting is another inexpensive option for budgetconscious homeowners who want to update their homes. There’s no shortage of places in a home, both inside and out, where a fresh coat of paint can make a statement without breaking the bank Fading paint on bedroom walls and kitchen cabinets can be painted over with a fresh coat of the same color or even something more vibrant Outside, apply a fresh coat to a wooden deck or paint over brick siding to create a whole new look

• Molding: Crown molding can add a touch of elegance to any room Rooms can be transformed in a single weekend with the installation of new or replacement crown molding A simple molding installation is a task many do-ityourselfers can handle on their own, while homeowners with less DIY experience may benefit from hiring a contractor to create a layered molding look.

Homeowners are pivoting away from costly renovations to more budgetconscious projects. Various less expensive undertakings can transform spaces at a fraction of the cost of more extensive renovations

Aroom addition can be a worthy project that makes a home more livable A host of factors will affect the cost of a room addition, but the experts at HomeAdvisor estimate that such a project can cost as much as $150,000. The size of the new room, the location of the home, the materials used to build the room, and a number of variables unique to the existing home will affect the final cost of an addition An online calculator can provide some basic estimates about the final cost of a room addition, but homeowners are best served by contacting various contractors and receiving multiple estimates to get the most accurate idea of what the cost layout will be to add a room to their homes

Though the sticker price of a room addition may shock some homeowners, it’s worth noting that such projects provide a good return at resale In fact, the “Cost vs Value Report 2021” from Remodeling magazine found that a midrange primary suite addition with an initial cost of $156,741 had a resale value of nearly $86 000

The experts at HomeAdvisor estimate that a room addition can cost as much as $150,000 $86,000.

WEʼVE GOT YOU COVERED. 24/7 7 DAYS A WEEK

What to know about replacing gutters

Certain home renovation projects are more glamorous than others A remodeled kitchen is sure to garner its share of “oohs and aahs,” while a newly paved driveway is much less likely to dazzle guests

A gutter replacement is another job that might not have the wow factor But fully functioning gutters are a must and can help to prevent potentially expensive roof damage. Gutters rarely draw attention, but homeowners can keep an eye out for signs that indicate gutters need to be replaced.

Signs gutters should be replaced

Various signs indicate it’s time to replace existing gutters Homeowners should act promptly if any of the following signs arise, as poorly functioning gutters can make it hard for water to get into the downspouts, ultimately pushing it backward and likely underneath roof shingles, where the result can be costly water damage

• Peeling paint

• Cracks

• Pooling water in the gutter

• Mildew in the gutter, which can sometimes be seen even from the ground

• Water damage: Water damage on the gutter can be limited to certain spots and will be noticeable on the underside of the gutter

• Soffit damage

• Sagging gutters

• Detached gutters, which can be detached from other pieces or the house

• Rust

Who should replace gutters?

Many home improvements can be completed successfully by skilled doit-yourselfers, but a gutter replacement is best left to the professionals. Homeowners who live in single-story homes may be able to replace gutters on their own, but the issues that can arise when gutters are not functioning at optimal capacity make this a job best suited to professionals, even in residences without high roofs.

Some gutters may be under a manufacturer ’s warranty, so homeowners can check to see if their gutters qualify for a free upgrade Experience is one of the best reasons to work with a professional gutter installation team Experienced professionals can identify which gutters are the best fit based on a host of factors, including the pitch of the roof, local conditions and the size of the house. In addition, gutter installation requires the use of various tools that many DIYers may not have on hand, which can cut into the cost savings of doing the project yourself.

Homeowners also should not underestimate the challenges of working on ladders that are high up off the ground Professionals are accustomed to such challenges, while DIYers may not be comfortable or used to climbing ladders with materials and tools in hand

A gutter replacement is a worthwhile investment that can ensure rain water efficiently and effectively runs through gutters and away from the roof Leaving this task to the professionals can ensure the job is done right

Sidewalk

Kitchen cabinets: Reface or replace?

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Tt g found 94 percent of renovators either fully or partially replaced cabinets in their improvement plans Cabinets are a major component of kitchen layouts Cabinets help to establish the aesthetic of a kitchen and serve a useful function, providing necessary storage space to ensure the room does not appear cluttered

Homeowners have different options when it comes to cabinet renovations, and they may need to decide if they need to replace or reface their cabinets

The kitchen is a busy room in many homes That popularity likely has something to do with why so many homeowners spend sizable sums renovating their kitchens According to highlights from the 2022 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, the median spend on major kitchen remodels grew by 14 percent from the previous year, and minor remodels increased by 25 percent Spurred on by increased time spent at home during the pandemic, the main impetus for kitchen remodels according to the study was that homeowners wanted to make these improvements all along and finally had the time and means to do so

There are many aspects of a kitchen that homeowners can change Houzz found 94 percent of renovators either fully or partially replaced cabinets in their improvement plans. Cabinets are a major component of kitchen

Replacement

Cabinet replacement involves removing all of the existing cabinets before new cabinets are leveled and installed According to the home improvement resource The Spruce, homeowners can expect to pay between $13,000 and $30,000 for contractor grade cabinets Cabinet replacement is a good idea when homeowners want to add more cabinet space or create a new layout in the room.

Refacing

must be in good shape to facilitate a refacing. The process involves installation of new drawer fronts and cabinet doors, as well as veneering of the cabinet boxes New hardware typically is installed as well The insides of the cabinets typically remain the same. The Spruce says cabinet refacing can be 30 to 50 percent cheaper than a replacement Most people call in professionals to change their cabinets Cabinet replacement can be a do-it-yourself job, but it involves measuring and ensuring everything fits and is leveled appropriately Homeowners who choose to reface their cabinets themselves may opt to paint or restain Wood veneer or a new door and drawer panel installation can be complicated and is best left to qualified contractors

Cabinet refacing is less messy and less disruptive than replacement All cabinets remain the same size and in the same location The cabinet boxes must be in good shape to facilitate a refacing. The process involves installation of new drawer fronts and cabinet doors, as well as veneering of the cabinet boxes New hardware

Safety considerations when pressure washing

In most cases, injuries due to pressure washer usage are entirely preventable Those who plan to use pressure washers should always do so with safety in mind Here are some precautions to take

• Identify potential hazards. Identify potential hazards with each different surface before beginning the job Weather, personal fatigue, slippery surfaces and nearby electrical hazards can increase injury risk

• Read the manual so you fully understand how to operate the washer. Read the instruction manual and practice using the tool before you put it to use on the task at hand. Learn how to operate the machine and all accessories Figure out how to shut it off in a hurry Determine if it is safe to use an extension cord on an electric model

Water is essential to cleaning, but it can be an even more powerful asset when there is great force behind it This is the concept behind pressure washers, which are tools that spray water at high pressure in order to clean an assortment of surfaces.

Pressure washers are typically used to clean siding, farm equipment, industrial machinery, concrete patios, and much more The power behind pressure washers can cause injury In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says pressure washers can cause of a host of injuries, including:

• The strong spray can cause serious wounds. Highpressured water can cut through flesh.

• The fast, strong spray can strike objects and toss them powerfully into others who are close by.

• Electric shock may occur if the pressure washer is not used properly.

• The force from the washer can knock a person off balance, whether operating the tool on the ground or while on a ladder

• Wear protective gear. Closed-toe shoes are a must because the water spray can cause lacerations. Be sure the shoes are non-slip or work boots. Full-length pants and a long-sleeved shirt can protect users from flying debris Wear eye protection whenever operating the washer OSHA guidelines recommend a full face shield for water pressure higher than 2,000 psi to avoid eye or head injury Waterproof gloves also are wise to provide better grip Ear protection for a gas-powered pressure washer can protect against hearing loss

• Start off with the widest spray. Pressure washers often include various nozzles or nozzle settings that may range from a 65-degree mist to a zero-degree pinpoint jet Most people never need to use the most intense jet sprays Begin washing with the widest angle spray tip, from around two feet away, to test cleaning capabilities, and adjust nozzle and distance as necessary, according to PressureWasher.com

Pressure washers help clean any number of surfaces. Safety must always be the top priority when using these potentially dangerous machines

SANDS POINT, NY

This magnificent 3-acre compound, expertly designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to indulge in luxurious coastal living. Nestled along 200 feet of pristine beachfront, this exceptional property offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, architectural brilliance, and exclusive amenities. Prepare to be enchanted by the meticulously landscaped grounds, thoughtfully designed to enhance the coastal ambiance. The property features a main house, a boat house, and a charming cottage with multiple apartments, providing ample space for family, friends, and guests to relish in privacy and comfort.

Situated on Long Island’s coveted Gold Coast, this property offers the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Enjoy the serenity of waterfront living while being just a short distance away from world-class dining, shopping and cultural attractions. Steamboat Landing is adjacent to the Village Club of Sands Point affording its members golf, pool, tennis courts, and mansion dining (fee required). MLS# 3492193. $9,450,000.

27 Astor Lane

LI Music and Entertainment HOF August events

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (97 Main Street, Stony Brook, NY) has announced an exciting lineup of events for this August. Most events are free with admission ticket purchase. For more information visit https://www. limusichalloffame.org/museum/

8/5 2-4 pm Film Screening and Panel Discussion of In Good Time, The Piano Jazz of Marian McPartland, A Film by Huey, Documentary Feature

In Good Time, The Piano Jazz of Marian McPartland documents the life and career of jazz legend Marian McPartland (1918 — 2013) as a musician, composer, and host of National Public Radio’s Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz. A native of England, McPartland arrived in America in 1948 with her husband Jimmy McPartland and established herself as a leading musician in the maledominated jazz world.

McPartland tells her own story through interviews filmed over 4 years. The film features McPartland’s own musical compositions and piano improvisations. She is seen performing and regaling audiences with her wit and stories in clubs, concerts, and Piano Jazz recording sessions with Dr. Billy Taylor, Elvis Costello, Dave Brubeck, Diana Krall, Bill Frisell, Nnenna Freelon, Renee Rosnes, Dick Hyman, and others.

8/6 1-2 pm Induction: The Fat Boys Kool Rock-Ski will accept the induction trophy in person

About the Fat Boys

The Fat Boys will be inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) on Sunday, August 6th at 1 pm at their Stony Brook museum location (97 Main St., Stony Brook). The Fat Boys’ Kool Rock-Ski will be accepting the award on behalf of the group. The event is open to the public and free with general admission ticket.

The Fat Boys were an American hip hop trio from Brooklyn, New York, who emerged in the early 1980s. The group was composed of Mark “Prince Markie Dee” Morales, Damon “KOOL ROCK SKI” Wimbley, and Darren “Buff Love” Robinson.

The Fat Boys were one of the first rap groups to release full-length rap albums. They released seven studio albums, four of which went Gold.

The first two albums of the group were produced by LIMEHOF Inductee Kurtis Blow. Successful singles included “Jail House Rap”, “Can You Feel It?”, “Fat Boys”, “Stick ‘Em”, “Don’t You Dog Me”, “All You Can Eat”, “The Fat Boys Are Back”, and “Pump It Up”.

The album Crushin’ received a Platinum status due to their single “Wipeout”, which was recorded together with The Beach Boys.

The group also starred in three Hollywood movies in the 1980s including Krush Groove, Knights of the City and Disorderlies, and have been featured in several music documentaries.

8/6 3-4 pm HooDoo Loungers

The HooDoo Loungers take their inspiration from the Gri Gri of Dr. John to the Swingin’ Rock N’ Roll of Fats Domino. They blend it all together with a bit of classic soul and New Orleans Swing for an inspired and original musical gumbo.

https://www.hoodooloungers.com/

8/13 3-4 pm Who

Are Those Guys

Who Are Those Guys is an eight-time winner of Dan’s Paper’s “Best of the Best” and one of Long Island’s East End’s most popular bands. The Who Are Those Guys, (WATG) sound has been compared to The Band, Neil Young, Tom Petty, Dylan and Creedence. Their vast collection of original songs are a mix of rock, blues, folk and country with a

classic sound that’s all their own. Marty Attridge, his brother Doug Attridge and Jim Gorman, 3 of the original members have been playing together for 45 years. The “new guy” Pat Petrosini joined them 35 years ago!

Together they’ve been gigging steadily and have gained attention all over Long Island. The WATG discography includes the 1980- 45 RPM Single: “All Around You”, 1989- “Tick Tock”,1998- “Graze”, 2002- “Welcome to Downville”, 2004- “25th Anniversary Edition”, 2007- self-titled CD, “WATG”, 2012- “Modern Snack Bar” and 2017- Marty Attridge’s Solo Album, “Old North Road”. They continue to record and look forward to putting out more great music!

WATG has performed up and down the east coast, from NH to FL and locally at festivals and concerts like the Great South Bay Music Festival, Suffolk Theater, the Vail-Leavitt Music Hall, Riverhead Blues Festival, Mattituck Strawberry Festival and many others including playing for “Rockin’ for the Homeless”, an East End community fundraiser, for 12 consecutive years.

Their original tunes have appeared in films like “Super Troopers 2” and “Dear Mr. Gacy” and TV show’s including NBC’s series “Aquarius” starring David Duchovny, Travel Channel’s “Expedition Unknown” and CBS’s “Without a Trace”! Their songs can be heard on radio and podcasts all over the world. WATG’s music and CDs are available at i-Tunes, Cdbaby.com, Amazon.com, Broadjam.com and Walmart.com.

We look forward to seeing you down the road! Our best performances are directly related to our great audiences! WATG fans are the best!

https://whoarethoseguys.com/home

8/20 2-3 pm Pamela Betti Band

Pamela Betti is an incredible singer, performer, songwriter and inductee into the NY BLUES HALL of FAME!

As a professional singer for the last 20+ years, Pamela has worked with some some of the biggest acts in the business like Kim Wilson from the The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Dave Mason, Eddie Kirkland, Joe Louis Walker, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Poppa Chubby, Val Thomas from Little Buster and the Soul Brothers, The Lords of 52nd Street (Billy Joel’s Band) , Joe Bonamassa, Taylor Dayne, Rick Springfield and she has toured extensively throughout the US and Asia.

Pamela and her band have also WON the Long Island Blues Society’s Challenge to Memphis TWICE and will be competing once again to participate in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN.

The bands CD, “PAMDEMONIUM” has been well received and has air play on major Blues radio stations all over the world! The band is back in the studio and will have a new recording in early 2024!

The PBB has an unstoppable energy, Pamela is a true professional who knows how to entertain a crowd! Pamela’s voice is a finely tuned instrument that can float through a ballad or rip through a kickass Blues tune!

Simply put, this girl can sing!

https://www.pamelabettiband.com/

8/25 7-10 pm Induction Ceremony: Robin Wilson (from Gin Blossoms and Smithereens)

Valley Stream’s Robin Wilson, singer/songwriter/guitarist for the multi-platinum album selling and Grammy-nominated band Gin Blossoms and guest lead singer for The Smithereens, will be inducted into the LI Music Entertainment Hall of Fame on Friday, August 25th at 7 pm.

The voice-powering FM radio staples ‘Til I Hear It from You’, ‘Until I Fall Away’, ‘Hey Jealousy’, ‘Follow You Down’, ‘As Long As It Matters’. Allison Road’ and many more, Robin will perform with special guests on our Exhibit Hall stage as part of the evening’s ceremony.

Tickets ( $40/public and $35/members) are limited and can be purchased online at www.limusichalloffame.org or by calling 631-689-5888 or at the Hall of Fame.

8/27 3-4 pm Shecky & the Twangtones

Around 1999 Long Islandguitarist Tommy “Shecky” Davis decided he needed some music fun and made plans to form his own band. The original idea was country twang Americana with a few Instrumental surf style tuned mixed in.

Throughout it’s near 25-year history and a few band members coming and going we’ve now settled on our description that reads like this “retro surf, reggae and soul jam music for all” that preforms a mix of interesting covers with the band’s own twist or as we like to say “we jam our own jam”. Band members: Tommy “Shecky” Davis, Brian Johnson, Tommy Dolan, and Frank Patterson.

LIMEHOF Hours and ticket details

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is open Wednesdays-Sundays from 12 noon

through 5 pm. Admission prices are Adult $19.50, Seniors (65+) and Veterans $17.00, Students (w/ ID) $15.00. Children under 12 are free. Tickets and now gift cards can be purchased online at the LIMEHOF.org website and at the door.

The first exhibit features replicas of clubs, with videos of artists performing, ads, posters, instruments, and an exact replica of a typical 1970’s stage, with vintage equipment and sound system. There is also a permanent “Hall of Fame” with plaques and exhibits recognizing over 120 inductees, as well as areas for a library, classrooms for educational programs and master classes, a surround-sound theater and a gift shop with music and entertainmentthemed memorabilia.

There are a wide range of compelling visual elements and rare artifacts on display throughout the building. Inducted artists who have donated their memorabilia include Billy Joel, Joan Jett, Debbie Gibson, Blue Öyster Cult, Twisted Sister, and families and estates of Harry Chapin, Guy Lombardo, John Coltrane, and so many more.

Donations include various musical instruments, performance outfits, rare posters and photos, handwritten lyrics, and much more.

For more information about the Hall of Fame please visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/ museum/

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Derek Adam

@ 6pm

Great South Bay Brewery, 25 Drexel Dr, Bay Shore

The Como Brothers @ 7pm FIRE ISLAND VINES (FIV), 17 E Main St, Bay Shore

The Stranger - A Billy Joel Tribute: Celebrating

The Music Of Billy Joel & Elton John @ 7pm Tanner Park, 400 Baylawn Ave, Copiague

series. North Hempstead Beach Park, 175 West Shore Road, Port Washington. feed back@northhempsteadny.gov, 516-869-6311

Thursday Aug 10th

Tramps Like Us (Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band)

@ 8pm / $60

Barnaby Bye will be playing at My Father's Place on August 4. Ad‐vanced tickets are $60, and tickets the day of the show are $70. My Father's Place, 3 Pratt Boulevard, Glen Cove. myfathersplaceproduc tions@gmail.com

Sat 8/05

Street Fighter (Rolling Stone Tribute Band) @ 7:30pm

Into The Woods by Mezzo Theatrical Productions

@ 7:30pm / $35

Aug 4th - Aug 12th

“Be careful what you wish for” seems to be the ongoing theme in Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Broth‐ers Grimm inspired mu‐sical, Into the Woods.

Long Island Children's Museum, 11 Davis Av‐enue, Garden City. mez zotheatrical@ gmail.com, 908-6289678 Monroe Martin III

Join the Town of North Hemp‐stead for its summer concert series. Manorhaven Beach Park & Pool, Manorhaven Boulevard, Port Washington. feedback@northhemp steadny.gov, 516-869-6311

Air Supply @ 8pm / $59.50-$149.50 NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury

Sun 8/06

Deanna Hudson @ 4pm Teddy's Bully Bar, 46 Audrey Ave, Oyster Bay

Fleetwoodmacked

(Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band)

Extreme with special guest Living Colour

@ 8pm / $29.50-$69.50

The Paramount, 370 New York Ave, Huntington

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@ 7pm North Hempstead Beach Park, 175 West Shore Road, Port Washington. feedback@northhempsteadny.gov, 516-8696311

Tramps Like Us brings 32 years of road-tested musicianship that have won the band the distinction of the planet’s most revered Bruce Springsteen Tribute band.

8/07

FunDay Monday

@ 11am

Join the Town of North Hemp‐stead for its summer FunDay Monday series. North Hemp‐stead Beach Park, 175 West Shore Road, Port Washington. feedback@northhemp steadny.gov, 516-869-6311

Karen Bella

@ 5pm

THE CLUBHOUSE LONG IS‐LAND - BELLMORE, 134 Club‐house Rd, Bellmore

Join the Town of North Hempstead for its sum‐mer concert series. Clinton G. Martin Park, New Hyde Park. feed back@northhemp steadny.gov, 516-8696311

Music on the Lawn Summer Series

@ 6:30pm / $35-$40

The Sands Point Pre‐serve Conservancy an‐nounces our Music on the Lawn Summer Se‐ries. Sands Point Pre‐serve, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point. info @sandspointpre serve.org, 516-5717901

Recently Launched

TōTUS Pet Food

Participating in Local Events This Summer @ 7am

Upcycled Kid Crafts Program @ 10am

Join the Town of North Hempstead for its Free Summer Upcycled Kid Crafts Program . Blu‐menfeld Family Park, Port Washington. feed back@northhemp steadny.gov, 516-8696311

Join the Town of North Hempstead for a sum‐mer movie in the park. Whitney Pond Park, 133 Valley Road, Manhas‐set. feedback@north hempsteadny.gov, 516869-6311

Daisy the Great @ 5pm Science Museum of Long Is‐land, 1526 N Plandome Rd, Manhasset

Gold Coast Arts Cin‐ema Series present

Madeleine Collins

French thriller! @ 7pm / $16

Don't miss this intrigu‐ing and tense psycho‐logical drama! Manhas‐set Cinemas, 430 Plan‐dome Road, Manhas‐set. info@goldcoas tarts.org, 516-829-2570

Richard Marx @ 8pm / $29.50-$99.50 NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury

Dog food will never be the same Christopher Morley Park, 500 Sear‐ingtown Road North, Roslyn. ilonawolpin@ anolimanagement.com

Mike Tedesco @ 5pm

Hilltop Kitchen & Bar, 150 Jeri‐cho Turnpike, Syosset

The Copperline Duo @ 2pm

Dan Reardon @ 6pm

Sunset Club Old Tappon Beach, Sea Cliff

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The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA @ 8pm NYCB Theatre At Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd, Westbury

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The best place to promote your events online and in print. Visit us @ https://theisland360.com/local-events/ powered by Featured Featured Featured Featured Editor's Voice Featured Featured Featured Featured Featured

Band of Make Believe: Music on Main St. brought to you by The Nutty Irishman @ 5pm Nutty Irishman, 323 Main St, Farmingdale Grease @ 7:30pm

The Argyle Theatre at Babylon Village, 34 W Main St, Babylon NYCFC II vs. Inter Miami CF II @ 8pm / $10-$15 Belson Stadium, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Jamaica

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Fri

Kenny and Claire: Summer Tour 2023 @ 6pm New Hope Community Church, 1400 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park

Calendar information is pro‐vided by event organizers. All events are subject to change or cancellation. This publica‐tion is not responsible for the accuracy of the information contained in this calendar.

House of Light Montauk, 2006

Every day the ripe white-caps glow in the sun, bold lilies opening on the enormous blue morning. But how simple they are, like full-moonsquick with energy.

In any case, I take them in as they are, as happiness is taken whole. We don’t even have to get to the fine point of the story. On the shore my gaze full of attention falls on the distant depths perfectly arranged since water covered the world eons ago. Life emerged, busy swirling back from the darkness.

More and more the moments come to me, and there is still time to let the last blossoms of sunset bleed and deepen my tired eyes, before floating into the moonlight’s shadow.

Do you shiver at the thought?

I should like to bring you here, to remember the ocean’s thundering call and the heart’s timeless song. I don’t think of it as being idle or floundering.

Stephen Cipot Garden City Park

Author’s note: In the mid-2000s I was awarded a unique, glorious, month-long writing residency in Montauk by the Edward F. Albee Foundation. It was held at the William Flanagan Memorial Creative Persons Center (better known as “The Barn”). I was accepted for poetry from among about 180 candidates. I shared the Center with 4 artists, 2 visual, 2 writers.

Mr. Albee himself dropped off the mail mornings and conversed with the artists. Mr. Albee was an exceptional patron of the arts, and especially tried to help talented visual artists show their works at NYC galleries.

I gained great appreciation for what it meant to be a struggling artist. I felt very fortunate because I was not a full-time artist, at the time a career scientist and project manager with the U.S.E.P.A. who merely dabbled in writing. I’ve done so since middle school, including when I also previously worked in oil, gas, and some mining t/o the U.S., which were other unique if not always welcomed experiences.

Anyway, I purposefully did not bring a car and spent a month riding a bike, hiking nature trails, visiting various local beaches during the days and nights: Montauk, Hither Hills, Navy Beach, The Walking Dunes, Shadmore, Camp Hero

Being a lover of libraries and at the time a library trustee for my community, I spent quite a lot of time reading and writing at the Montauk library.

I wrote a lot. Peaceful environments away from usual cares and all were unparalleled. This is an effort from that process. I hope readers enjoy it, for what it’s worth.

Business&RealEstate

Challenges, pitfalls of First-time purchasers

You’re a first-time purchaser and are excited about pursuing your “American Dream” of homeownership. You are ready to begin searching for your next place to call home. But have you done your homework?

The first and most crucial step is to go to a lender to see what amount of a mortgage that you will qualify for. Email or bring with you your most recent tax returns, W-2’s or 1099s (if self-employed) and have them do a complete credit profile.

After the process is completed, you will receive the most important piece of paper, your commitment letter with no conditions except subject to an appraisal of the property. This would be the most prudent path to take as our inventory is historically low and those buyers that procrastinate are either not ready to “go to war” with the other competition of buyers or are losing deals.

There are those who are getting outbid on homes, where emotion and need are combined to make the winning bids sometimes way above the asking price. My advice is not to succumb to getting too emotional in your search and purchasing and not let your common sense and critical thinking go by the wayside.

If it makes sense in the brain, it will make sense in your pocketbook!

In many cases, affordability is being sacrificed and people are stretching their financial capabilities to a point where there could be a major risk factor that might come into play in the future.

One should look at their job and/or business and make sure that their income will continue to be consistent, so as not to have to worry about not being able to pay and then may need to do a short sale, where the value of the home becomes less than the mortgage or worse go into foreclosure.

Those who are most in jeopardy are the ones that are putting down less than 10%. It will take several years for inventory to become more normalized to reach 6-7 months. Also, most important is guessing if and when interest rates will moderate lower.

If home values were to decrease sufficiently enough due to a pullback in demand in the future there would be no equity build up and if there were a loss of income, then there might be problems paying the lender.

The first nine years are mainly

interest payments on your mortgage, so there is very little equity buildup. Even if rates were to go substantially lower, refinancing may not make a lot of sense as you would have to determine how many years it would take to break even with the lower interest rate to pay back the initial cost of refinancing.

But also consider that you would be starting all over and the next 9 years of your new mortgage would

be mostly interest payments once again. No one has a crystal ball or can predict what may or may not happen in the future.

My professional opinion is to always buy within your financial comfort zone and don’t go overboard and get emotionally involved in purchasing, especially if this is your first or even move-up purchase.

Whether it is a single or multifamily, townhome, condo, or coop, do your due diligence and stay grounded when searching.

If you have children or plan to have them, buy the best school district that your budget allows you to; even if you may have to travel further to work, assuming you have to commute to an office. If you work from home then you will have more flexibility in choosing a town.

Hire a broker that has many years of knowledge who will educate and guide you through the sometimes tumultuous, complicated, and stressful process and not try to sell you the favorite flavor of the month.

Consultative selling provides a stronger methodology as a broker must do as much listening as possible and ask the necessary and required questions to be able to assist

you in your journey to find your next place to call home. He or she must also be caring enough to address your specific “needs and wants” and stay focused on the end game of finding that special first or moving up home.

Make sure you hire a qualified, licensed, and insured home inspector as well as a qualified real estate attorney. There is a multitude of variables, problems, and issues that will always come into play that will need to be strategized and solved to finally get to the closing table.

Stress can be a real critical issue, so do your best to keep your emotions in check. Use your common sense when making your purchase and stay within your budget and what you are qualified for financially. Better to be safe than sorry.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. For a free 15-minute consultation, value analysis of your home, or to answer any of your questions or concerns he can be reached by cell: (516) 6474289 or by email at Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate.Com or via https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com

PHILIP A. RAICES

Real Estate Watch

Recent Real Estate Sales in

Manorhaven attorneys rescind contract

eral Fund Abstract – which authorizes the village to pay its bills – both the village clerk and attorney went outside to speak with the three trustees and ask for at least one to return to continue the meeting.

All three returned after 15 minutes.

After the trustees returned, they voted to approve the general fund abstract and to hire a Spanish-language interpreter for the village court.

A motion was also presented to appoint Michele Tizzano to the Board of Zoning Appeals as a member and then as the chairman, but that motion was blocked by Shahipour, Farina and Ildefonso.

Shahipour said she was against his appointment because Tizzano lacks the experience.

Manorhaven resident Richard Li said that the Village is consistently bickering and he is disappointed in their conduct. He asked them to cooperate on behalf of the residents.

“I just would like to remind you, all members, trustees, your title is trustees, we put our trust in you,” Li said.

Stolar recommended the board go into executive session for legal advice on addressing the issue, which the board did at the end of the meeting.

Village of Manorhaven’s Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday night became contentious after a dispute over the hiring of a village attorney between the mayor and three trustees.

Continued from Page 1

pour asked the mayor. “It’s just you?”

Shahipour said the board was not notified that the village had entered this contract with Harris Beach.

When she asked Popeleski why he did not discuss it with the board, he said it was because they are against him and had presented a resolution previously behind his back. He called their actions “criminal” and said it had hurt him as a mayor.

“I really wish this board would just put their trust in me and just say ‘you know what mayor, you’re going to make the right decision and we’re going to stand behind you,’” Popeleski said.

The mayor said the board is trying to overthrow him, which the trustees unanimously disagreed with.

Shahipour said that Popeleski does not listen to the board and that he only wants it his way.

She said she was also concerned about the appointment of the Harris Beach attorneys as they were recommended by the village justice.

“What is the supposedly non-political village judge doing by inserting himself into this?” Shahipour said. “Does the village judge stand to benefit outside of the village for bringing Harris Beach into the Village?”

The three trustees — Shahipour, Farina and Monica Ildefonso — were in favor of reappointing former village attorney Genevieve Lopresti.

Popeleski said he didn’t believe the village’s previous attorney was capable of handling the job properly and he needed to hire a law firm that would “straighten things out.” The Harris Beach attorneys, he said, are doing that. He said there are a “lot of stuff coming down from the state,” but did not specify what those legal concerns were.

“There’s a lot of legal things coming down the road that this board doesn’t understand,” Popeleski said.

Trustee Jeffrey Stone said the board members received an email with 13 legal concerns the village would be facing. The board would not elaborate on when asked by residents.

“It’s a big, big mess right now,” Stone said.

Popeleski said he had spoken with other law firms, but many did not want to work with the village due to its history.

Stone said he was satisfied with the appointment of the attorneys due to their variability in legal support. He said that, while he proposed a different attorney to represent the village, he also supported the appointment of Harris Beach to prevent a stalemate on the board.

“You really can’t do better,” Stone said.

“That they’re willing to work with this village for a high capacity and I think we can get things under control in no time… This can go on for quite some time. It’s very time sensitive, they’re very qualified and you have to acknowledge that.”

Shahipour presented a resolution to meet at the earliest date to interview potential attorneys for the village, replacing the appointed Harris Beach attorneys.

The resolution was seconded by Farina, but no vote was carried out because Popeleski, through his power as the presiding officer, did not grant the motion for the resolution to be voted on.

Popeleski said the resolution was another example of the board going behind his back because they do not want to work together. Shahipour countered and said the board does want to work together but that Popeleski does not listen to the board members.

“We do want to be united, but it’s like we’re being forced,” Shahipour said. “Anything that you want to do, we were forced into doing it your way. That’s where we’re not united.”

After the mayor blocked the vote, Shahipour, Farina and Ildefonso walked out of the meeting, preventing a quorum on the board and forcing the meeting to stop.

As the board had not yet voted on the Gen-

Port fosters relations with first responders

Continued from Page 2

event as it is a great opportunity for the community.

Many healthcare providers also held booths at the event for community members to gather information about their services.

Free hot dogs and hamburgers were grilled up for residents to enjoy due to a donation from the Community-Police Relations Foundation and the Port Washington Fire Department.

Community-Police Relations Foundation is a charity that works to strengthen bonds between communities and law enforcement through events from coast to coast in the United States.

CEO Al Eskanazy said that holding events where community members get to interact with their local law enforcement is key to fostering healthy relationships between the two.

“That’s how community gets to know people

inside of a uniform,” Eskanazy said. “When you look at a cop, you should be looking at the person not the uniform. People don’t have that opportunity because they’re usually with an officer because they got pulled over or a different circumstance. So we try to bring positivity, positive circumstances, positive opportunities by doing things like this.”

The celebration also featured a softball game between the Port Washington Fire Department and the Port Washington Police Department.

Firefighters donned red shirts and police officers wore blue shirts, but both featured the name “Wilson” and the number 58 on the back in honor of late police officer Brandon Wilson.

Wilson, a five-year member with the Port Washington Police Department, died after a car crash on the Northern State Parkway in January

2022. He was 34. Brandon Wilson’s father Eddie Wilson threw out the first pitch at the softball game between the two first responder departments.

Port Washington Chief Matthew Kerin said the Port Fire Deaprtment works hand in hand with the Port Police Department, so everybody knows each other. This made the game for Wilson personal not just for the police members but also the firefighters who shared a community with the late officer.

Kerin said participating in a casual event like National Night Out provides a unique opportunity to engage with the community.

“We’re not just driving by in a truck or walking in a parade somewhere,” Kerin said. “It gives a lot of people the opportunity to say ‘hey I know him, he lives on my block.’”

The Manorhaven Board of Trustees will convene again at 6 p.m. on Aug. 2 for their work session.

Training MLB hopefuls

Continued from Page 3

er said development is not about looking strictly at the end result but understanding the process it took to get there and solidifying a strong foundation with those tools.

“The reality is all the best players have certain movements and certain things that their body does which is what we focus on the most,” Bleecker said. “If what you’re teaching doesn’t allow a Hall of Famer to be himself, then what you’re teaching needs to change.”

During much of the summer, Bleecker often travels throughout the country to help prepare his players before circuit showcases and conventions. Next week Bleecker will be in San Diego for the Area Code games, which includes over 200 high schoolers looking to get drafted in 2024 and 2025.

It’s a busy schedule, but one Bleecker feels is worth it as more players he’s trained with since middle school look to join both Skenes, Troy and others who have gone through 108 Performance to the professional level.

“It’s about making the adjustments we need to help these guys rise in their class,” Bleecker said. “It’s definitely a lot of travel, but I also feel very blessed to be able to do it.”

More information on 108 Performance can be found on their website.

PHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES

The

Suit alleges county map unfair to Dems

Continued from Page 1

treme partisan gerrymander that carves apart Plainview and other communities across the 16th Legislative District,” Drucker previously said. “This is not about the political fate of one person over another – it is much more significant. This is a brazen attempt to dilute and render irrelevant the voices of all Democrats residing in the 16th District and it must not stand.”

Legislator Josh Lafazan will also be pushed into the 16th Legislative District, represented by Drucker, according to the map. Other changes to North Shore areas include the expansion of the 10th District into Munsey Park, Plandome and Plandome Manor.

The lawsuit cites the same grievances Democratic legislators previously expressed, attributing the reason for the suit to a favoring of the Republican Party with the purpose of ensuring a permanent GOP majority through the new district map.

The parties bringing suit say that the new map achieves this Republican advantage by consolidating Democratic voters into two districts and by diluting their vote in three other districts. They say this mainly takes place in communities of color, such as Valley Stream and Lakeview.

“Republican lawmakers drew political maps that provide them personal political advantages while disenfranchising communities of color throughout the county,” Nassau County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs said. “Every voter is entitled to equal representation under federal and state laws regardless of their race, ethnic-

ity, religion or political affiliation, and the Nassau Democratic Committee intends to fight until such representation is achieved.”

The parties bringing forward the lawsuit say

that the new county legislative map was compared to 10,000 computer-simulated maps that complied with the New York Municipal Home Rule Law requirements. This was done to de-

Port ed board poses school year goals

Continued from Page 2

board define, commit to and increase a positive school culture and climate.

He said if the board is on the same page and considers these three initiatives, then it will provide them a launching pad to move forward through research, application and execution of actions.

Trustee Adam Block said he agrees the goals should be reduced to prevent the growth of an overwhelming number of goals.

Block said that many individuals in the school district think about success in applying for colleges, so he suggested this be a measure of the district’s performance.

Vice President Julie Epstein also agreed that the board’s goals could be reduced and is okay with the three goals that Hynes suggested. She said she liked the goals he had suggested as the board’s discussions on ideas for the school district could fall within them.

President Adam Smith said that he likes Hynes’ suggestion and would like to create 3-5 goals that are more specific. He said this will make it easier when evaluating the results within the school district.

The Board of Education discussed its goals at length for the 2023-2024 school year. The purpose of these goals is to set a framework for the upcoming school year that Hynes will refer-

ence when establishing his district goals.

The Board of Education tentatively proposed three goals: strive for excellence for our students, staff and community, continue to create and strengthen a positive school culture among our students, staff and community, and communicate and partner with parents and families.

The board plans to circulate its goals to finalize language and tweak them before finalizing them for the school year. Smith said it is the board’s hope that its goals will be finalized by the next board session.

The Board of Education also approved its procedure for implementing a student represen-

JCC to offer jobs for disabled adults

Continued from Page 11

work experience beneficial, but it is also a great way for participants to get to know their fellow community and JCC members.

“Our interns really take pride in their work,” Schulz said. “It gives them meaning – they know they are helping others which is really important.”

Program intern Nora, who works at the JCC cafe, said her favorite part is helping customers and taking inventory. She has been interning with the program for about two years.

The goal of the Program Without Walls is to set individuals up for employment by offering them transferable work skills.

She said the work experiences that participants gain through Program Without Walls are “stepping stones” to being hired for a job in the community.

Individuals are assigned internship jobs based on their individual needs, skills and readiness. She said the center continually assesses its participants’ growth and satisfaction with the program’s offerings, tailoring their assignments based on this assessment.

The program runs Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and has been offered at the JCC for about three years.

In conjunction with work experiences, the center also offers weekly social programs for individuals. This includes Social Club, which fosters conversations among peers with recreational activities, as well as informational sessions to assist participants in expanding their social and life skills like self-advocacy, making friends, cooking, resume writing and job searching.

“They’re just happy to be connecting with others, helping others and socializing,” Schulz

said. “Having friends in a program is such a big part of growth for this population too.”

Social programs are held Monday-Friday from 2:30-5:30 p.m. and once or twice a month on weekends.

She said the program’s offering of a combination of vocational training and life skills training is important for participants.

“And the reason for that is we realize that those two skill sets are what can help to set someone up for independence,” Schulz said.

Schulz said she has helped re-envision the program to expand the services the center offers to adults with special needs.

She said the JCC had historically offered support for individuals with special needs, starting with school-aged children and after-school programs, but realized there is a need to support adults with special needs as well.

termine whether this map was designed impartially.

The comparison between the computergenerated maps and the Nassau County District map showed a 0.1% probability, or less than 1 in 10,000 chance, that it was drawn in a nonpartisan manner, according to the parties filing suit.

This is the first lawsuit brought forward in the county challenging an enacted legislative map for this cycle.

The lawsuit was filed in the Nassau County Supreme Court. The residents and Democratic Committee who filed suit are being represented by counsel Dave Mejias, managing partner and founder of Mejias, Milgrim and Alvarado, P.C. in Glen Cove.

“Republicans are trying to rig the upcoming election by gerrymandering legislative districts to keep themselves in power,” Mejias said. “Through this lawsuit we hope to bring about competitive elections that will allow voters to choose their elected officials, not the other way around.”

Earlier in July, a New York State Appellate Court ordered New York’s bipartisan redistricting commission to redraw congressional maps. The court reversed a decision made last year by the state’s Supreme Court which rejected maps from Democratic officials in the Legislature that Judge Patrick McAllister said “were unconstitutionally drawn with political bias.”

The Appellate Division’s ruling is seen as a boost for Democrats, threatening the congressional districts in Long Island currently represented by two Republicans, including George Santos in District 3 and Anthony D’Espositio in District 4.

tative and garnering student feedback.

Hynes suggested that a senior representative work with Schreiber High School principal Kathryn Behr to present relevant information about the high school to the Board of Education.

The senior representative would be a rotating position with a different senior reporting to the board each month.

There would also be round table sessions with students approximately 3-4 times a year.

Assistant Superintendent Christopher Shields provided the district’s enrollment report at the meeting. He said the district has 375 children enrolled in kindergarten for the 20232024 school year.

He said there is no concern for too large of class sizes with the incoming kindergarten class.

The Port Washington Board of Education will meet again at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 22.

“With that identifying that everybody has different strengths and abilities and how can we tap into their potential, whatever variation of that potential might be,” Schulz said.

She said this year the program has seen great growth through more internship job sites in the community and expanding the center overall to provide for more individuals.

Schulz said the goal of the center is to further educate people about individuals with special needs, to foster understanding, compassion and patience. She said she has big dreams, as she would like to help more individuals and increase the number of vocational job sites for participants.

Schulz said the individuals at the Vocational Life Skills Training Center are an integral aspect of the JCC.

“People like deep down to help others and it’s a good feeling when they see the JCC is such a meaningful part of our interns’ and participants’ lives,” Schulz said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL FRICCHIONE

Dave Mejias, counsel representing the residents and Democratic Committee who filed suit, speaking at a press conference Thursday.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Town of North Hempstead - Board of Zoning Appeals

Pursuant to the provisions of the Code of the Town of North Hempstead, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Zoning Appeals of said Town will meet at Town Hall, 220 Plandome Road, Manhasset, New York, on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 to consider any matters that may properly be heard by said Board, and will hold a public hearing on said date to consider applications and appeals.

The following cases will be called at said public hearing starting at 10:00am.

APPEAL #21419 - David Poon; 23 Prospect Avenue, Port Washington; Section 5, Block 51, Lot 112; Zoned: Residence-C Special exception under 70-231 and variance from 70-208.F to legalize and expand a finished attic, resulting in an increase in the non-conformity of a home.

APPEAL #21420 – Angela Ferrante; 112 Huntington Rd., Port Washington, Section 5, Block 60, Lot 31; Zoned Residence-A Variances from §§ 70-32.7 and 70-208.F to legalize an extension to a shed dormer with the eave height being too high on a non-conforming building.

APPEAL #21421 – Nicholas & Evangelia Romeo; 5 Andover Rd., Port Washington, Section 6, Block 61, Lot 34; Zoned Residence-B Variance from § 70-41.A to construct additions to a home that would not have large enough total (aggregate) side yards.

The following cases will be called at said public hearing starting at 2:30pm

APPEAL #21414 – Port Washington Center, LLC (Uncle Giuseppe’s); 364 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington, Section 5, Block J, Lot 17; Zoned Business-A/Parking District Conditional Use § 70-126(F) and Variances from §§ 70-132(A), 70-133, 70-202.1(C), 70-202.1(D), 70203(G) for an expansion of a retail grocery (a conditional use), with a transformer too close to the street, concrete stairs too close to a side property line,  a smaller-than-required landscaped buffer and a retaining wall that is too high within 50’ of a residential zoning district and with not enough distance between steps.

APPEAL #21430 - Lifestyle Café (James Gurrieri); 14 Main Street, Port Washington; Section 5, Block 126, Lot 225; Zoned: BusinessB Conditional Use §70-139(A)/70-126(F) to convert a retail space to a retail food use.

APPEAL #21431 - Louie’s Port Washington (Louie’s Real Estate Main Street, LLC); 395 Main Street, Port Washington; Section 5, Block C, Lot 2; Zoned: Waterfront Business (B-W) Variances from §§70-103.A(1), 70148.12(A) and 70-148.7(D) to legalize additions to a restaurant and to construct additions to a restaurant which will exceed the permitted height (too tall), with not enough parking and with a proposed second floor deck/gathering area which is not permitted.

Plans are available for public viewing at https://northhempsteadny.gov/ bza.  Persons interested in viewing the full file may do so by any time before the scheduled hearing by contacting the BZA department via email at BZAdept@northhempsteadny.

gov.  Additionally, the public may view the live stream of this meeting at https://northhempsteadny.gov/ townboardlive. Any member of the public is able to attend and participate in a BZA hearing by appearing on the scheduled date and time.  Comments are limited to 3 minutes per speaker. Written comments are accepted by email up to 60 minutes prior to the hearing. Timely comment submissions will be made part of the record.

DAVID MAMMINA, R.A., Chairman; Board of Zoning Appeals

Port Public Library events for August 8-18

Hypertension Screenings, Tuesday, August 8 @ 11:00 am, Joan and Arnold Saltzman Reading Room. St. Francis Blood Pressure screening

Star Wars Escape Room, Tuesday, August 8 @ 7:00 pm, Hagedorn Meeting Room. Teens will unite forces in a galaxy far, far away to solve puzzles and overcome challenges in this Star Wars-themed Escape Room. Dress as your favorite character, wear your best galactic outfit, and celebrate all things Star Wars. Registration begins July 10. Teens may register for one session only.

Film: The Lion and the Horse (1952-84 min.). Wednesday, August 9 @ 7:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Wednesday Western Film!

Wild horse wrangler Ben Kirby (Steve Cochran) loses his heart to Wildfire, the stalwart and freespirited stallion he captures. When Wildfire is sold to the circus, Ben “liberates” Wildfire, and the two go on the run. Crane Wilbur scripted for director Louis King, Edwin B. DuPar shot the movie in WarnerColor, and Max Steiner supplied the music score.

Tie-Dye Creations with Mr. Buchman, Thursday, August 10 @

7:00 pm, Hagedorn Meeting Room.

Teens will learn the process and create their Tie-Dyed creations in this creative and hands-on workshop. Teens are encouraged to bring a white or light-colored t-shirt or socks for their innovative designs.

Registration begins July 10.

The Roues Brothers Quartet: A Special “Roues-Rock” SoundSwap Event, Thursday, August 10 @ 7:30 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Brothers Billy and Steven “Muddy” Roues, with longtime friends Gary Solomon and Ed Steinberg, formed a musical alliance and created the Roues Brothers. The four musicians are music business veterans, each having crossed paths with musical greats such as B.B. King, John Lee Hooker, Bo Diddley, Howlin’ Wolf, and many more. The Roues Brothers can be heard worldwide online, in movie and television soundtracks, and on many recordings. Their wellcrafted, unique original material has led to a sound that they call RouesRock: a blend of blues-rock, roots rock, alt-folk, and country and other influences they picked up from their experience as musical journeymen.

Park Story Time, Friday, August 11 @ 9:30 am, Off-site. Join your favorite librarians at Blumenfeld Park

(across the street from the library) for Park Story Time! No registration required.

Sandwiched In Max Alvarez — Akira Kurosawa: Samurai of the Cinema, Friday, August 11 @ 12:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Japan’s premier director Akira Kurosawa (1910-1998), reigned supreme as a master of world cinema. The genius of Kurosawa spanned 31 unforgettable films, including The Seven Samurai (1954), Ran (1985), and Kagemusha (1980). Join film historian Max Alvarez for this sweeping tribute to the life and art of the Japanese storyteller whose work put Asian cinema on the world map and inspired generations of Hollywood filmmakers. Register at pwpl.org/ events beginning July 1.

Medicaid Sign-Up Help, Friday, August 11 @ 2:00 pm, North Study Room. Free walk-in assistance from the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council.

Community Outreach from the Parker Institute, Friday, August 11 @ 2:00 pm, Hagedorn Meeting Room. Representatives from their Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands Program will be available to provide information on their services to Alzheimer’s patients and their care-

givers, which include counseling, evaluation, information and referrals, and respite services.

Film: Moving On (2022-81 min.), Friday, August 11 @ 7:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Estranged friends Claire (Jane Fonda) and Evelyn (Lily Tomlin) reunite to get even with Howard (Malcolm McDowell), the widower of their recently deceased best friend. Along the way, Claire reunites with Ralph (Richard Roundtree), her great love from her younger years. Paul Weitz scripted and directed this comedy.

Film: Last Train from Gun Hill (1959-94 min.), Wednesday, August 16 @ 7:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Wednesday Western Film! U.S. Marshal Matt Morgan (Kirk Douglas) vows to bring his wife’s killer to justice — a task complicated by the fact that the suspect’s father is cattle baron Craig Belden (Anthony Quinn). James Poe scripted for director John Sturges.

Homebrew Music: Live at Lapham Series, Thursday, August 17 @ 7:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Homebrew music series brings people together over a shared love of music and introduces our Library community to fine, local musical talent. One performer

will serve as the evening’s compere and ‘headliner,’ but the event will include several highly talented local players!

Park Story Time, Friday, August 18 @ 9:30 am, Off-site. Join your favorite librarians at Blumenfeld Park (across the street from the library) for Park Story Time! No registration required.

Sandwiched In with Eco-Photo Explorers — Rt. 25 — Long Island’s Route 66, Friday, August 18 @ 12:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room and on Zoom. Eco-Photo Explorers will examine the historical past of Route 25 and its unique place in the lives of all Long Islanders through photographs and stories. Join us for a fast-paced tour of our own “Route 66” and see how many iconic places along the way you recognize! This is a hybrid program. Register at pwpl. org/events

Film: 80 for Brady (2023-98 min.), Friday, August 18 @ 7:00 pm, Lapham Meeting Room. Four lifelong friends (Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field) embarked on an unforgettable journey to see their hero Tom Brady play in Super Bowl LI. Sarah Haskins and Emily Halpern scripted this comedy for director Kyle Marvin.

“William, you were always my hero. I wanted to be just like you, but I didn't play football or basketball like 'The Will', just didn't have your touch. I enjoyed watching you and was always proud to be your brother. Never does a day go by that I do not think of you. What would it be like to be able to call you. I have told my daughters about you letting me drive Mom and Dad’s new car around Tarboro although I was only 14 years old. October 2, 1970, Daddy’s birthday and the day that changed my life. You were my hero before Nam and you are still and one day I hope to walk with you again. I Love you. Mike”

us find a photo for ever y name on The Wall

Each name on The Wall represents a family who was forever changed by their loss

Help us find photos for the Wall of Faces to ensure that those who sacr ificed all in Vietnam are never forgotten.

Vist www V VMF.org/Faces to lear n more

LIVING A DREAM

Glen Cove native Joe Suozzi advances in Mets farm system

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

Every day Joe Suozzi wakes up, he’s excited to have yet another day living his dream.

Even a day like last Thursday, when the 25-year-old suited up for a baseball game with the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, played one inning, then saw the game get completely washed out when thunderstorms arrived at the team’s game against Erie (Pa.)

Some players might be bummed. But for Suozzi, even a disappointing day like that is still magical.

“It really is awesome that I get to keep living this dream,” he said by phone after the game. “Everything is going to plan and I’m so excited.”

That plan currently includes playing in the organization he grew up rooting for, the Mets, and has him just two rungs from Citi Field.

After playing last season for the Mets’ Single-A team, the Brooklyn Cyclones, a deep outfield throw from where Suozzi grew up in Glen Cove, the 6-foot-2 first baseman/outfielder has spent much of 2023 as a Rumble Pony in Double-A.

Through games of July 29th he

was batting .242 with two homers and six RBIs, despite missing four weeks with an oblique strain.

“I’m just trying to be present every day and not look ahead too much or look back too much,” Suozzi said. “I’m happy with how the season has been going, not swinging at as many bad pitches and being more consistent.”

Suozzi, son of former U.S. congressman and 2022 New York gubernatorial candidate Tom Suozzi, has had an unlikely path to professional baseball, so it’s understandable he’s grateful to be where he is.

Growing up, Suozzi was a baseball standout but not a “can’t miss” prospect like so many pro players.

He tried out for the Chaminade team as a junior and was cut, a setback for a kid who’d been a baseball fanatic idolizing David Wright his whole life.

Mike Pienkos, the legendary coach of Chaminade baseball for the past four decades, remembered Suozzi as a determined kid who came back from being cut his junior year.

“He was like a different human being (as a senior),” Pienkos recalled. “He had gained 25 pounds, got a lit-

tle taller, and had much more confidence. It was great to see.”

Despite a strong year at Chaminade, Suozzi had only one college interested: McGill University, in Montreal.

thrived.

He became a three-year player for the Atlantic Coast Conference squad, and as a senior in the shortened 2020 season he batted .414.

“I was very fortunate to get a

A chance to play for the team that he’s loved since birth? Suozzi couldn’t believe it.

“My dad, my whole family, going to Mets games and then signing with them? It was surreal,” Suozzi said. “Like it was meant to be.”

As Suozzi has risen up the Mets ranks, Pienkos has watched with pride.

“Not surprised at all he’s doing well,” Pienkos said. “He’s a very determined, very smart kid with a great attitude on life and in baseball.”

“And I wasn’t wild about going to school in Canada,” he laughed. Finally, with few offers, one of Suozzi’s travel coaches reached out to the Boston College staff, who agreed to let Suozzi try out.

He didn’t make the team as a freshman, but worked hard and earned a spot his sophomore year. Once his cleat was in the door, Suozzi

chance there and I worked hard to keep myself there,” Suozzi said. “The level of competition in (the ACC) is incredible, so facing those guys made me better.”

After his 2020 season, Suozzi wasn’t drafted but caught the attention of Mets Northeast scout John Kosciak, who offered him a freeagent contract.

Suozzi, who credits his dad as a role model in helping him learn to deal with both success and failure, knows he’ll have to be more consistent and raise his batting average and on-base percentage if he wants to keep moving up the Mets ladder.

But for now, he’s loving Binghamton and loving where his life is headed.

“I don’t set a lot of goals, but I’m really happy here,” Suozzi said. “I’ve got great coaches helping me and I’m getting good work in every day. It’s really great.”

“I was very fortunate to get a chance there and I worked hard to keep myself there.” The level of competition in (the ACC) is incredible, so facing those guys made me better.”

— Joe Suozzi

PHOTO BY BRONSON HARRIS/BINGHAMTON RUMBLE PONIES

Former Chaminade High School standout Joe Suozzi is currently playing with Binghamton, the Mets AA affiliate.

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