Syosset–Jericho Tribune 1/11/23 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group

Attorney General Files Lawsuit Against Woodbury Nursing Home

JENNIFER CORR

In December, New York State Attorney General Letitia James filed a lawsuit against Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, located in Woodbury, for fraud and mismanagement that led to under-staffing, which ultimately resulted in neglect and harm.

According to a press release from the Office of the Attorney General, an investigation by the office found that Cold Spring Hills’ owners “diverted over $22.6 million in Medicaid and Medicare funds from resident care through a fraudulent network of companies that were used to conceal upfront profit taking.”

And even before the pandemic started, owners cut staffing of the 588-bed facility. This was done despite being warned by the Department of Health, according to the lawsuit, that the facility needed to prepare for the pandemic in February of 2020.

In recent reviews of the nursing home, its evident that residents do not report quality care.

Recent reviews left on Google include:

•“Do not send your family here. The place is disgusting, moldy, and my relative went uncared for, for days on end. This place should be closed down.”

•“I’m not sure why my brother was place here in the first place. No one answers the phones. I can’t find out when he is going home. They managed to lose all his clothes so he has nothing to wear. I’m going to try and get him out of there.”

•“Zero stars. Don’t send anyone there unless you want them to be neglected and die. That is what happened to my mom. She was there for rehab only and they treated her like she didn’t matter. We visited daily. She was healthy just not mobile. They are abusing the patients and neglecting them. And they don’t care one bit about the people.”

Included in James’ lawsuit is testimony from staff and family members of residents also describe “bleak” conditions of the facility, such as an unclean facility and broken critical care equipment like

wheelchairs, beds, shower chairs and air conditioners. According to the lawsuit, residents were routinely left sitting in soiled briefs and went for long periods of time without bathing. And failure of providing proper wound care and prevention for residents caused wounds to develop and existing wounds to deteriorate, leading to infections. Residents and their families also reported deficiencies in safe and adequate care when it came to providing for nutrition and medication.

One testimony in the suit described how a diabetic resident who had difficulty walking was given a wheelchair without footrests.

“He had to drag both of his feet on the floor and as a result developed sores on his right foot,” the testimony stated. “He was taken to the hospital and had to have part of his toe amputated because of the severity of his infections. Shortly after returning to Cold Spring Hills, he died.”

The man’s co-guardian was not informed of his condition after he returned to the facility, and was also not told when the man died.

“Cold Spring Hills’ owners put profits over patient care and left vulnerable New Yorkers to live in heartbreaking and inhumane conditions,” said James. “From Buffalo to Long Island, every nursing home in New York must abide by laws that require the best care for New Yorkers. As Attorney General, I am determined to use the full force of my office to hold nursing homes to that standard, and ensure New Yorkers are protected. I encourage anyone who has witnessed alarming conditions, resident neglect, or abuse at a nursing home to contact my office.”

The lawsuit alleges that the operators of Cold Springs used 13 companies so that it would appear they were paying for services, but were in fact diverting Medicaid

and Medicare funds to themselves. The network of companies were also used to hide the real owners of the nursing home. “From 2017 through 2021, Cold Spring Hills received over $157 million from New York’s Medicaid program and over $88 million from Medicare to provide critical care to its elderly and disabled residents,” the press release stated. “Cold Spring Hills’ operators used three primary fraudulent schemes to siphon over $22.6 million in Medicaid and Medicare funds from Cold Spring Hills.”

Alleged in the lawsuit is that the respondents paid more than $15.3 million in fraudulent “rent” to Cold Spring Realty, which owns the property where the nursing home is located, and happens to be owned by the same individuals who operate the nursing home. Another $5.2 million plus was paid to several deceptive entities for “consulting.” Another $10.6 million was used in a transaction with apparent insurance companies, and another $8.1 million was spent on an entity that apparently dealt in services and supplies. The respondents of the lawsuit include, “Cold Spring Hills, the actual facility; Cold Spring Realty Acquisition, LLC (Cold Spring Realty), which owns the property where the nursing home is located; Ventura Services, LLC, Highview Management Inc., B&L Consulting, LLC, all of which claim to provide consulting services to nursing homes; Graph MGA, LLC, Graph Management, LLC, Graph Insurance Company A Risk Retention Group, which purportedly act as insurance brokerages; Philipson Family, LLC, which is a partial owner of Cold Spring Realty; Lifestar Family Holdings, which is a partial owner of Cold Spring Realty; Comprehensive Care Solutions, LLC, which purported to provide services and supplies; and Ross

CSH Holdings, LLC, Rosewell Associates, LLC, and ZBL Management, LLC, all passthrough companies. Also named in the suit is the principal owner, Bent Philipson, whose role was concealed, Benjamin Landa, whose concealed his ownership; Joel Leifer; as well as David Zahler, his wife Chaya Zahler, their adult children Rochel David, Leah Friedman, Chaim Zahler, and Jacob Zahler, Avi Philipson (Bent Philipson’s adult son), Esther Farkovits (Benjamin Landa’s adult daughter), Rochel David and Leah Friedman (the Zahlers’ daughters) were straw owners of the nursing home, put in place to conceal their fathers’ control. Also named in the suit is Cheskel Berkowitz, Joel Zupnick, and the Estate of Deborah Philipson.” The Syosset Jericho Tribune searched for web presence of the consulting services, insurance brokerages and Comprehensive Care Solutions, LLC, to no avail besides listings on business databases and very little LinkedIn presence. The Syosset Jericho Tribune also received no response after reaching out to Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilition and Bent Philipson. But Benjamin Landa’s attorney, Howard Fensterman, did reply.

“My client as an owner of the real estate is not involved with the nursing home operations and is merely a landlord who has no liability as it relates to nursing home operations,” Fensterman said.

This is not the first time Landa, the founder of SentosaCare, and his partner Bent Philipson has been under suspicion for fraud when it comes to nursing homes. In 2015, ProPublica released a story alleging that Avalon Gardens Rehabilitation & Health Care Center on Long Island was one of several nursing homes in a group of for-profit homes affiliated with SentosaCare, LLC, that have a record of repeat fines, violations and complaints for deficient care in recent years.

“Despite that record, SentosaCare founder Benjamin Landa, partner Bent Philipson and family members have been able to expand their nursing home ownerships in New York, easily clearing regulatory reviews meant to be a check on repeat offenders,” the article stated.

Fensterman said SentosaCare was approved by the Department of Health at the time, but from April of 2019 forward, Landa was bought out of the real estate, and had no relationship with the building, and never the operations.

—The Office of the Attorney General provided information for this story.

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

(Public domain)

Cold Spring Hills’ owners put profits over patient care and left vulnerable New Yorkers to live in heartbreaking and inhumane conditions,” said James. “From Buffalo to Long Island, every nursing home in New York must abide by laws that require the best care for New Yorkers.

—New York State Attorney General Letitia James

Data Breach Four Months Later: Communications Woes, And Painful Lessons From Cyberattack

With Suffolk County still reeling from the September cyberattack, Nassau County has begun

taking steps to secure its IT infrastructure

AMANDA OLSEN &

JANET BURNS

aolsen@antonmediagroup.com

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

Around 236.1 million ransomware attacks were reported worldwide in the first half of 2022. According to the Verizon Data Breach Report, the public administration sector experienced 2,792 incidents, with 537 resulting in confirmed data disclosure. The motivation for the majority of cyberattacks conducted is financial gain and not espionage. This means that rather than trying to gain information itself, bad actors are holding it hostage in order to obtain a ransom. No organization is immune to these attacks.

On September 8, Suffolk County became aware that their systems had been compromised. The ransomware group ‘BlackCat’, also known as ALPHV, took credit for the breach. According to DataBreaches.net, ALPHV released the following statement on the darkweb: “The Suffolk County Government was attacked. Along with the government network, the networks of several contractors were encrypted as well. Due to the fact that Suffolk County Government and the aforementioned companies are not communicating with us, we are publishing sample documents extracted from the government and contractor network.

The total volume of extracted files exceeds 4TB.

Extracted files include Suffolk County Court records, sheriff’s office records, contracts with the State of New York and other personal data of Suffolk County citizens. We also have huge databases of Suffolk County citizens extracted from the clerk.county.suf. domain in the county administration.”

The impact of the breach was immediate and far-reaching. All county offices ground to a halt. Residents and county employees learned that their driver’s license numbers, social security numbers and other personal data had been compromised. Building permits and real estate transactions were delayed or cancelled because of onerous wait times. Offices were forced to employ old-fashioned pen and paper, paper checks

and fax machines to get any work done.

A forensic digital investigation determined that a single flaw at the county clerk’s office allowed the hackers to penetrate the system on December 19, 2021. They were in this system for months before they breached the county network in late summer, then revealed themselves in September by posting their ransom note. Suffolk chose to take down their system rather than pay the $2.5 million demand.

Suffolk County Clerk Judith Pascale told News 12 that she warned Suffolk County officials in January that a cyberattack could happen. She brought her concerns to the Ways and Means Committee and asked them to install more computer security and more substantial firewall protection. She says the firewall protection in place during the attack wasn’t enough for a government entity.

“It was only a matter of time. And that’s why we should have taken the precautions,” said Pascale. “...People looked at me like I was crazy...I said ‘when this happens, it’s going to be devastating.’”

Legislator Siela Byone submitted a letter to Nassau County executive Bruce Blakman November 1, urging him to bolster the county’s defenses in light of Suffolk’s plight.

“As Suffolk County continues to struggle in the aftermath of a costly cyberattack that has hobbled its public-facing and internal systems, it becomes clearer by the day that Nassau must proactively strengthen our defenses before we inevitably become the next target. Forward-thinking organizations and corporations dedicate significant resources toward retaining and training full time, in-house cybersecurity staff, “hardening” existing information technology systems, and developing internal controls and rapid response protocols to ensure resiliency in the event of cyberattacks.

Nassau County must do the same.”

Nassau county has moved to establish a Deputy Commissioner of Cybersecurity within the Department of Information Technology. This Deputy Commissioner, appointed by the Commissioner of Information Technology, will head up a new cybersecurity team to address the needs of the county government in relation to the increasing threat of intrusion. They will also be expected to maintain the integrity of the County’s information technology infrastructure by proactively protecting sensitive data and systems. One of the key duties of this office will be creating disaster recovery protocols and procedures for every Nassau County

department. Another is establishing and maintaining alternative communication pathways in the event of a successful attack.

On Monday, Dec. 5, the Rules Committee of the Nassau County Legislature voted unanimously to approve a contract related to cybersecurity services for Nassau County. Following the affirmative vote, William Biamonte, Chief of Staff for the Minority Caucus of the Nassau County Legislature, issued the following statement:

“Every member of the Minority Caucus remains intently focused on advancing comprehensive strategies for addressing the cybersecurity threats that Nassau County faces on a daily basis,” William Biamonte, Chief of Staff for the Minority Caucus of the Nassau County Legislature, said. “We will continue working toward the implementation of additional common-sense cybersecurity best practices that will benefit all Nassau residents.”

The county has opted not to disclose the name of the company that will be providing this service, stating that they do not want the security company to become a target itself. While this can be an issue with certain information, it should be possible to see the amount the county agreed to pay the vendor without compromising their ability to render the service.

If you were stopped by police in Suffolk County between 2013 and September 2022, your personal information is at risk. The county has set up free identity monitoring services with Kroll. Visit suffolkcounty.kroll. com to sign up.

Nassau County Public Safety Building.

(Photo by Jeffery Kilmer)

A bank of servers for Nassau County. (Photo by Jeffery Kilmer)

It was only a matter of time. And that’s why we should have taken the precautions...People looked at me like I was crazy... I said ‘when this happens, it’s going to be devastating.’

—Judith Pascale, Suffolk County Clerk

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

To place an item in this space, send information two weeks before the event to editors@ antonmediagroup.com.

THURSDAY, JAN. 12

In-Person: Seniors Of Syosset Drop-In Funded through New York State Office for the Aging, Seniors of Syosset is a Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community Program. The program will offer social work support, community health nursing, volunteer-based transportation to local medical appointments and shopping and other activities and services, including some at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, where this event is taking place from 1:45 to 3:30 p.m. Whether you are a senior in need of support, someone who wants to volunteer helping the community, or just someone who wants to learn more, drop in and get involved. For more information, visit syossetlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 13

In-Person: A Chinese Book Discussion- The Dark Forest By

Liu Cixin

Sunnie Zhang is a columnist who loves reading, food and travel. She will be leading a book discussion on The Dark Forest in Chinese at the Jericho Public Library Meeting Room, 1 Merry Lane, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Copies of the book will be available in Chinese at the Circulation Desk. Book description: The Three-Body Problem is a

science fiction series about the communication and fight between humans on Earth, Trisolaran aliens and the rise and fall of both civilizations. Its English edition won the 73rd Hugo Award for Best Novel. The Dark Forest is the second book in a series of three. Netflix will release “The Three-Body Problem” in 2023. Now is the pefect time to read about this popular, award winning story.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18

In-Person Movie: Carmen

In the Jericho Public Library Theater, 1 Merry Lane, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., enjoy the movie Carmen. Movie synopsis: In a small Mediterranean village, Carmen has looked after her brother, the local priest, her entire life. When the church abandons Carmen, she is mistaken for the new priest. Carmen begins to see the world and herself in a new light. Inspired by true events. Starring Natascha McElhone, Michela Farrugia and Steven Love. This movie is not rated, and runs for one hour and 27 minutes.

SATURDAY, JAN. 21

Traditions Of Chinese Acrobats

In the Syosset Public Library Theater, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, children from grades kindergarten to fifth grade are invited with their parents to watch a one-woman acrobatic performance featuring hand balancing, plate spinning, artistic cycling, ribbon dancing, diabolos, foot juggling and

Chinese water bowl manipulation. All must register with their own library card, and a maximum of four seats is allowed per family. Caregivers must remain in the library while children are attending programs. To register, visit syossetlibrary.org.

The 54th Annual Winter Concert

The Children’s Orchestra Society presents the 54th Annual Winter Concert at Community Church of Syosset, 36 Church Street in Syosset, at 4 p.m. Attendees will see performances from Young Symphonic Orchestra, Junior Symphonic Ensemble, Sinfonia Orchestra, Pre-Kinder & Kinder Orchestra, Mallets & Bars Ensemble. Elite String Ensemble, Wind Symphonic Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble, General admission tickets are $21. There will be no tickets sold at the door, and limited seating is available. To reserve a seat, visit childrensorch.org.

Casino Night

Midway Jewish Center, 330 South Oyster Bay Road in Syosset, is hosting a Casino Night at 7:30 p.m. with games like a Texas Hold’em Tournament. Buy tickets in advance for $85 ($150 in chips) through Jan. 13. Prices at the door are $95, which will get you $100 in chips. Checks payable to MJC Sisterhood, or Venmo @MJCSisterhood. All proceeds will benefit MJC. More details will follow. Enjoy dinner, drinks, dessert, music and raffles. For more information, visit mjc.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 26

Psychic Night Dinner

Featuring leading psychics and mediums, there will be a Psychic Night Dinner at Frank Steaks, 4 Jericho Turnpike in Jericho, from 6 to 9 p.m. Dinner, which is $70 per person plus tax and gratuity, will include a one on one private reading and a four course dinner. To make a reservation, call 516-3384595.

TUESDAY, JAN. 31

Afternoon Book Discussion

Join Donna Burger, a readers’ services librarian at Syosset Public Library, for an in-person discussion at the library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, of the bestselling LibraryReads Pick The Music of Bees by Eileen Garvin. Copies of the book will be available at the Circulation Desk one month before the program. No registration is required. The event will begin at 3 p.m.

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Enjoy a local orchestra concert in Syosset. (Photo courtesy James Hewitt via Wikimedia Commons)

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George Santos: The Nation Reacts

Widespread fallout continues from Santos’ scandal, but to what end?

editors@antonmediagroup.com

Before even taking office, freshman Representative George Santos (NY03) made a name for himself that will likely be remembered, and possibly argued over, for many decades to come.

Meanwhile, Santos is facing down potential state and federal investigations into his conduct, as well as pressure to resign, or to participate in a special election.

In the weeks leading up to his first term as a United States Congressman, Rep. Santos has drawn an outpouring of criticism, ire, and in some cases indifference after it was publicly revealed that he fabricated much of his official campaign bio, among other personal and financial inconsistencies that have come to light.

A week after publication of a factually damning exposé in the New York Times (one of numerous outlets to do so lately), Santos broadly acknowledged the long list of fake resumé items, describing this as “embellishing”; he also said he had every intention of assuming office, a nod to calls for his resignation from Democratic officials and voters, and some Republicans, that had already started to mount.

Given the number of and variety of personal, professional, and financial details that have come under scrutiny, multiple news outlets have started keeping running lists of things that Santos has been accused of lying about. Major topics that he has admitted to lying about include his education, his work history, his finances, that members of his family fled or died in the Holocaust, and that he employed people who were killed in the Pulse nightclub massacre in 2016. To date, Santos has not explicitly addressed his sourcing of personal and campaign funds in the past three years under recent scrutiny, nor has he clarified previous claims about whether his mother was in the twin towers on 9/11, and whether and when he had a brain tumor, among other things.

In the week after the December 19, 2022 New York Times story ran, outgoing Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan was among the first local officials to publicly condemn the dishonest behavior by Santos, who defeated his Democratic opponent Robert Zimmerman for the Distrct 3 congressional seat back in November. Leg. Lafazan held multiple rallies that week, calling for Santos’ resignation and decrying the freshman Republican congressman-elect’s numerous untruths about his profressional resumé and Jewish heritage. Incoming U.S. Congressman Daniel

Goldman (D, NY-10) tweeted on December 20 that, if all the reporting on Santos is true, “there are at least two possible federal crimes at play,” and called on the U.S. Attorney General’s office to investigate. A few days later, Rep. Goldman tweeted again: “Time to add a third potential federal crime: campaign finance fraud. In 2021, Santos incorporated the Devolder Org in FL, which has no known assets. In 2022, he reports income of $750k, all from Devolder. He then gives $700k to his campaign. Where did that money come

from?” Goldman has also called for the FBI to investigate Santos.

On December 23, New York State Assemblyman Charles Lavine (D-North Shore) issued the following statement: “I am deeply troubled by the bizarre allegations surrounding our Congressman-Elect George Santos. It is grotesquely unfair for the people of the Third Congressional District to be represented by anyone who has fabricated and concocted significant aspects of his life. I welcome the investigation announced by New York State Attorney General Letitia James. I urge the leadership of the soon to be sworn House of Representatives to take the steps necessary to protect the national legislative interests of the people of northern Queens and Nassau County.”

As the Christmas and Chanukah holidays wrapped up, and after Santos had publicly responded to some degree, more local as well as state and national officials started getting on the record about Santos’ apparent modus operandi.

Democrat Robert Zimmerman, Santos’ former opponent, tweeted, “George, if that’s even your real name, if you’re so convinced that #NY3 voters still trust you - resign & run against me again in a special election. Face the voters with your real past & answer questions about your criminal history. Let the voters decide.”

On December 29, Zimmerman also appeared alongside outgoing New York State Senator Anna M. Kaplan, Assemblyman Lavine, Rabbi Deborah

Bravo, communinity member Linda Beigel Schulman, daughter of Holocaust survivor and a gun safety advocate, and other concerned parties at a rally calling for Santos’ resignation and investigation.

Kaplan told the assembled electeds and community members, “George Santos has perpetrated a complete and total fraud on our community, but we cannot forget that for the last three years, he was enabled and supported by the entire Nassau County Republican machine and his Republican running mates, many of whom sit in elected office today and others who will soon take office.

Kaplan continued, “The questions about exactly who George Santos is are not new, but they were brushed aside and minimized by local Republicans desperate to flip this congressional seat at any cost. Our entire community has been victimized, and we demand accountability. George Santos must be investigated by all appropriate authorities, particularly surrounding his shady business dealings and mystery millions that seem to have appeared overnight despite having no legitimate career to speak of.”

Criticism of Santos hasn’t only come from Democrats, either.

Town of North Hempstead Supervisor commented in a late December statement: “The disappointment that I feel having been misled by George Santos’ lies is profound. I am particularly offended that he

State Assemblyman Charles Lavine addresses the crowd at a rally calling for Rep. George Santos to resign on December 29, 2022 in Mineola.

On January 3, Legislator Josh Lafazan held a rally outside Rep. George Santos’ former campaign headquarters in Oyster Bay, calling for Santos to be expelled from Congress. (Image via Leg. Lafazan’s Twitter)

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would fabricate family history with regard to the Holocaust. Our Jewish neighbors, as well as all of our residents, deserve better. Now, Mr. Santos must be honest and accountable to the public going forward if he truly wants to repair the damage he has caused. I will be watching carefully, and I am hopeful that Mr. Santos continues to make amends.”

A few days later, DeSena made another statement: “George Santos has admitted he lied and fabricated his education and his employment. He has failed to answer additional questions about his finances. My disappointment is extreme and personal as I was deceived when asked to endorse him. I join others who have called for federal and state investigations.”

DeSena continued, “I am particularly disgusted with Mr. Santos misrepresenting family persecution during the Holocaust and his misuse of the term Jewish. False statements about the victims at the Pulse Nightclub massacre also are beyond the pale. Having failed to answer questions that the public has a right to know, Mr. Santos is not trustworthy and if he takes office will not have my support. He is not welcome at any program or event in the Town of North Hempstead that I am a part of. I’ve spoken with members of the minority party on the Town Board and our Town Clerk and they share my views.”

Around the same time, freshman U.S. Representative Daniel LaLota (R, NY-1) said in a statement: “House Republicans

like me are eager to be sworn in and focus on our commitment to America and our respective districts. Yet, over the last few weeks I have heard from countless Long Islanders how deeply troubled they are by the headlines surrounding George Santos. As a Navy man who campaigned on

restoring accountability and integrity to our government, I believe a full investigation by the House Ethics Committee and, if necessary, law enforcement, is required. New Yorkers deserve the truth and House Republicans deserve an opportunity to govern without this distraction.”

In early January, Representative Kevin Brady (R) of Texas told Fox News Sunday that the 34-year-old Republican “is certainly going to have to consider resigning.”

Santos, who has compared abortion to slavery and once called police brutality a “made-up concept,” is currently under investigation by the Eastern District of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, according to media reports.

In early January, numerous outlets also reported that officials in Brazil have resumed their investigation regarding alleged check fraud by Santos in that country when he lived there with his mother at age 19 (an allegation Santos denies) now that legal officials there know where to find him.

The Nassau County District Attorney’s office also told press that they are looking into the situation.

Richard Luscombe reported for The Guardian that Democrats are “also expected to pursue several avenues ... including a potential complaint to the federal election commission and what would be a largely symbolic resolution to expel him from Congress.”

Elected officials, like media outlets, have also been talking a lot about how to prevent this sort of thing from happening again.

Rep. Richie Torres (D, NY-15), for example, has introduced a federal bill entitled the SANTOS Act, or Stop Another NonTruthful Office Seeker, Torres told NY1. Before 2022 came to a close, Leg. Lafazan also introduced a county-level Campaign Honesty Bill.

State Senator Anna Kaplan speaks at a rally calling for Rep. George Santos to resign. (Courtesy of the Office of Senator Anna Kaplan)

Retired Educators Donate To Veterans

Angelo Grande, chairperson for community service for the Long Island Zone of Retired Educators of New York (RENY), and Kathryn Grande, co-chair of Glen Head, presented a donation of brand-new clothing, socks, shirts and underwear to be given to the homeless men and women veterans in Nassau and Suffolk counties, as well as the Beacon Houses, for the holidays. They presented the items to the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency in East Meadow.

“It is a pleasure to serve our veterans, who served our country to make it possible for all of us to be here today,” Ralph Esposito, director of Nassau County Veteran Service Agency said.

Esposito explained that the agency hosts two “stand downs” each year that serve veterans in need. They served 525 veterans this past November. The agency distributes food, turkeys, brand new coats, shoes, boots, clothing and more.

The Nassau County Veterans Service Agency also feed the homeless veterans daily through its ongoing food pantry (weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon) at its East Meadow office.

RENY members also wrote nearly 300 holiday cards to the veterans. They also made a donation last year for the “stand down.”

RENY, formerly known as New York State Teachers’ Association, is open to retired public school teachers, personnel and administrators. They were happy to make this donation to local veterans.

—Long Island Zone of Retired Educators of New York

Despite frigid temperatures and a tree taking down our power lines on Dec 23, nothing could dim the lights of North Country Reform Temple’s Hanukkah Service and party. Everyone lit their menorahs and enjoyed a delicious candlelight dinner. Many thanks to the heroic linemen who worked so hard to restore our power! Of course we shared with them our jelly donuts, a traditional treat on Hanukkah!

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Nassau District Attorney and Toys for Tots Campaign Co-chairwoman Anne Donnelly, and Joe LaPadula, president of Martino Auto Concepts in Glen Cove and also a Toys for Tots campaign co-chairman, were joined by United States Marines Corps Retired Major Chuck Kilbride in thanking the Anton Media Group staff for donating hundreds of toys for this year’s Toys for Tots campaign. “Toys for Tots is a wonderful program that delivers incredible joy to thousands of disadvantaged children,” said Angela Susan Anton, publisher and owner of Anton Media Group. “As past honorary chairperson for Toys for Tots, I thank all residents and businesses who generously donated toys this holiday season.” The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program collects new, unwrapped toys during the holiday season each year, and distributes those toys as gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. Photo by Christy Hinko

(Photo Submitted by North Country Reform Temple)

Kathryn Grande, Linda Zorn and Angelo Grande

COLUMN

Eight New Year’s Resolutions for Parents

All of us have experienced unprecedented challenges in the last three years, resulting in heightened levels of anxiety and stress. So much is out of our control, and that can feel overwhelming. But there are steps you can take to safeguard your wellbeing and that of your family.

As you welcome in 2023, take the opportunity to put into place some of these eight resolutions to start the New Year off right.

1

Tune in and turn off: Sure, your kids need to be told to put the phones away at the dinner table and when they’re doing homework. But they’re not the only ones who overuse the tech gadgets. When you are with your kids, be fully present. The years really do fly by.

2

Be a role model: Believe it or not, your children and teens look to you as their example of how to act in the world. For your sake and theirs, eat healthfully and exercise, spend more time outdoors, and be sure to…

3

Put self-care in your list of priorities: As parents, we sometimes think our job is to sacrifice ourselves for the sake of our children. But if you don’t take care of yourself, you’ll have nothing left to give them. Take the time to engage in activities that make you feel happy, confident and healthy.

4

Don’t compare yourself to other parents or your kids to other kids: Facebook and other social media platforms

5

make it look like every parent has the perfect child—the honor student, star athlete, community volunteer, etc. But these are just self-selected pieces of information and don’t paint a true picture. Every parent faces challenges, and no one is perfect.

Don’t take the bait: Kids push our buttons, there’s no doubt about it. But when you respond to your tot’s tantrum with a tantrum of your own, it doesn’t help the situation and only creates more chaos. When they are acting up, take a deep breath and remember that the goal is to respond thoughtfully, not react impulsively. One way to hone this skill is to…

6

Practice meditation. Numerous studies show that even a few minutes a day of meditation will help reduce your stress. Not sure how? Google “how to meditate” and you’ll find lots of helpful tips and videos. You can also google “meditation on Long Island” to find a group. And invite your kids to try it

out, too! Let them know supercool celebrities and athletes like Selena Gomez, Lady Gaga, Lizzo, Derek Jeter and LeBron James are big meditators.

7Listen closely and talk less: When our children come to us with problems, it’s our natural inclination to try to fix things for them. But the reality is, often what they need is just to be heard. Make a promise to yourself that you will listen to your kids and not jump in right away to solve the problem. To open the lines of communication, simply ask, How are you feeling?

8Pay attention and give praise: The way you communicate with your child not only teaches them how to communicate with others, it shapes their emotional development and how they build relationships later in life. Giving your child positive attention for

good behav ior can boost their self-esteem, improve your relationship and help your child understand the behaviors you like and want to see more often.

Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year!

Bio: Kathy Rivera, LCSW, is the Executive Director/CEO of North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center, Long Island’s leading non-profit children’s mental health organization. To get help for your child or to support the Guidance Center’s lifesaving work, call (516) 626-1971 or visit www.northshorechildguidance.org

PARENTING PLUS

Kathy Rivera

On Jan. 7, Antigone Rising, a band that has roots in Glen Cove and Sea Cliff, performed at yoga studio and event center, Buddha Jams, in Glen Cove. Joanie Leeds, who won a Grammy for Best Children’s Album with All the Ladies, was slated to perform but was not able to make it due to a family matter. Guest performers filled in, including the Cantor for Oyster Bay’s Congregation L’Dor V’Dor, Tayla Smilowitz.

And the event, which is geared towards families, donations were accepted to benefit Girls Rising, a non-profit organization created by Antigone Rising that works to empower and inspire girls and LGBTQIA children to pursue careers in male dominated fields through workshops, grants, scholarships and the annual Girls Rising Music Festival that centers around young musicians. The event featured an accessible yoga session, meditation and concerts.

“Our passion and our non-profit is all about empowering young girls to follow that inner voice inside them, to express themselves truly and authentically and not fear that, and to also support that in others,” said Cathy Henderson, a guitarist and founding member of Antigone Rising.

Creating this event with Jason Samel, the founder of Buddha Jams, has been the perfect match. Henderson explained that Samel, who supports the mission of Girls Rising, also comes from a place of “higher being and living.”

“He created this awesome mix of music and meditative yoga experience, which is Buddha Jams,” Henderson said. “I think it’s such a great manifestation of his own elevation, and to give back to people. It’s all about love and giving back to everybody.”

Leeds, a friend of Samel’s and Antigone Rising’s, told Long Island Weekly ahead of the concert that she was inspired by Samel’s

New Years Jam At Buddha Jams Antigone Rising performs in concert benefiting Girls Rising

opening of the studio.

Buddha Jams opened in April, 2022 and had a grand opening the following June. Samel found the studio because he wanted to share his love of yoga, as well as mix it with his love of music.

“During Covid I became very depressed...I fell into a really dark place of depression and anxiety,” Samel explained. “I went onto [Tappen] Beach [in Sea Cliff]... and in one a-ha moment, I decided to sit down on the beach, close my eyes, rise my arms up in the air on my breath in, bring my hands back to heart center on my breath out, and I just kept doing that movement for about 15 minutes.”

After doing this meditation for about 15 minutes, Samel said he smiled in a way that he hadn’t in years, with an abundance of love inside his heart for everything and everyone around him, as well as himself.

“I came back to the beach and I said ‘you know what, I’m going to try this again,’” Samel

said. “And it was during the middle of COVID, so there was no yoga studios that were open and there was no where to get instruction, except online, and I hated getting instruction online... so I went to Tappen every single day. And I went to a few yoga classes in the past with my wife, and I remembered a few poses that we did in class. So I decided to do yoga there every single day... I took my shirt off every single day whether it was hot, even in December when it got cold, even in the snow... even in the rain.”

He calls yoga in the snow, “Snow-Ga,” and yoga in the rain, “Rain-ga.”

Facing the elements, breathing through it and completing the same practice every day was a powerful experience for Samel. “If I can do that on my yoga mat, I can do anything in life.”

Buddha Jams is the manifestation of Samel’s journey. Even with less than a year of being open, classes are well attended,

though there’s certainly room for more, Samel said. And the studio employs experienced practitioners including an acupuncturist and healing artist, a yoga physical therapist, a licensed clinical social worker, and several yoga, healing and meditation artists, including Samel, who recently became a certified yoga teacher.

Samel said a community is forming out of this studio.

And what better way to add to that momentum then through a family concert?

“This time of year is when health and being a better person and all those resolutions come into play,” said Henderson. “And hopefully [the concert] is a really cool way to help people keep that momentum going, so the timing is for that reason. But the underlying reason for doing this, of course, is utilizing meditation, and bringing that sense of creativity and empowerment, to the kids.”

Antigone Rising performs at Buddha Jams.

(Photo by Jennifer Corr)

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How Your College Student Can Study Abroad Safely

BY ZEV FAINTUCH specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

With a new academic year now underway, hundreds of thousands of college students have left, or are planning to leave, home for semesters abroad.

Studying abroad is often a life-changing experience, and an opportunity to create lasting relationships and gain an appreciation for new cultures. Yet, it is not without its risks. Taking some time to assess various problematic scenarios and how to handle them can place your student in a much better, and much safer, position while they are traveling.

Health

Have a frank discussion with your child about their overall health. If they suffer from any chronic conditions, have a plan for treatment while they are away. Find out where they can receive quality specialist care, and how to get immediate help in a medical emergency.

On that note, it would also be wise to investigate your insurance programs and get a clear picture of what is and is not covered. Then, have a look at where your student is going to see if the local hospitals and clinics will accept your insurance or if you will need to increase their credit card limit to cover any medical expenses out-of-pocket.

Be aware that public health management can vary from country to country. Some less developed nations struggle with illnesses that Americans typically don’t even have to consider. COVID-19 still presents a significant health threat in many parts of the world, and the World Health Organization recently declared the spread of the Monkeypox virus to be a global health emergency. The Center for Disease Control’s travel database can help keep you and your student up to date on the level of health risk involved in traveling throughout the world.

Finally, reinforce the importance of good hygiene and basic cleanliness to reduce the risks of infectious diseases, particularly if transmission rates are notably high in the area where your student is traveling. Regular hand washing, not sharing towels or bedsheets, and disinfecting shared surfaces like desks or gym equipment are all sensible practices to help reduce the spread of illness.

Geopolitics

While we live in a world of bountiful possibility and excitement for young people looking to travel and learn, it’s

Studying abroad is often a life-changing experience.

also unfortunately one with areas of increasing unrest and political instability. Violent clashes between governments and military forces threaten the safety of anyone who is near them, regardless of the reason. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is a prime example – students should avoid all regions within 50 miles of the Ukrainian border and should not travel to Belarus or Transnistria, as doing so now risks arbitrary detainment.

The economic ramifications of this conflict are reverberating throughout Europe. Inflation, recession, and energy shortage concerns are exactly the types of conditions that destabilize societies, mobilize citizens, and trigger mass unrest. Anyone traveling to Europe should be aware of the economic and political landscape and avoid getting caught up in potentially volatile events like public protests.

When looking to study abroad, it is important that both you and your student have a clear understanding not just of a country’s culture and customs, but its socio-political climate, as well.

Personal Safety

Communicate to your child the importance of knowing their surroundings. Situational awareness is paramount to mitigating risk and avoiding a potentially dangerous predicament. As a rule, it is always best to blend in when possible. Sticking out—by being loud or wearing very different or expensive-looking clothing—can make someone into a target for theft or worse.

Tell your student to be mindful of where they go, and who they go with. They can visit the Department of State Travel Advisory site for the countries they plan on traveling to and get information on any cities or neighborhoods with particularly high crime rates or other threats. Also, encourage them to talk to locals to find out what areas to avoid.

It’s easy to forget that what is legal and illegal in America may be different elsewhere in the world, so have your student get familiar with the laws of the country they will be visiting. Some countries, for example, forbid photographing critical

infrastructure and police, military, and government buildings. The last thing anyone wants is to experience legal troubles abroad—as evidenced by Brittney Griner’s recent drug conviction while visiting Russia—so it is critical to identify these novel laws ahead of time.

Timing can also be crucial in having a safe experience abroad. For example, students may want to avoid visiting some countries, particularly those with a history of political violence, during an election season. Seasonal weather should also be taken into account. Some countries experience extreme weather patterns, with extensive periods of massive rain or snowfall that could make air or land travel dangerous, particularly in less developed areas.

With some diligent research ahead of time, and by having a conversation with your student about situational awareness, you will be setting them up for a safe and fulfilling semester abroad.

—Zev Faintuch is an intelligence analyst at international security firm Global Guardian.

TheDream.US, the nation’s largest college access and success program for immigrant students, announced a new partnership with the State University of New York (SUNY) at Old Westbury to provide scholarships for immigrant students in New York State to achieve their higher education dreams.

The new announcement arrives as TheDream.US opens its new scholarship round for the 2023-2024 academic year. Applications will be open between Nov. 1, 2022 and through Feb. 28, 2023. The scholarships are open to undocumented immigrant students with or without DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) or TPS (Temporary Protected Status) who came to the United States before the age of 16 and before Nov. 1, 2017.

“As we at SUNY Old Westbury know so well, ours is a society made stronger by the diversity of its members,” said Timothy E. Sams, president of SUNY Old Westbury. “We are proud of our record of serving Dreamers who we know work so hard to better their own lives and the lives of those in the communities they call home. We thank TheDream.US for partnering with our campus to grow the opportunities for Dreamers to pursue

their education as part of what is their uniquely American experience.”

The new scholarship round includes eligibility for immigrant youth across New York State to apply to TheDream.US National Scholarship to attend SUNY Old Westbury. The National Scholarship is for Dreamers who are first-time, current, or previously enrolled college students. The award is for tuition and fees of up to $33,000 for each student towards a bachelor’s degree.

TheDream.US now has more than

80 partner colleges in 21 states and Washington, D.C. that are committed to serving Dreamers and prepared to offer students the needed support services to help them successfully navigate college life, both on and off campus.

“We are excited to partner with SUNY Old Westbury in supporting New York Dreamers in their college and career aspirations,” said Candy Marshall, president of TheDream.US. “Despite the many obstacles they face, these immigrant students continue to persevere and work hard to achieve their education and career goals. Ninety three percent of our graduates are now working or have started their own businesses. Their successes are proof that expanding Dreamers’ access to higher education and career opportunities is good for our country’s economic growth. We are grateful to SUNY Old Westbury and our other partner colleges across the United States for giving our immigrant youth the opportunity to pursue a college education and contribute to the future of America.”

About TheDream.US

TheDream.US is the nation’s largest college and career success program for undocumented immigrant youth students, having provided more than 8,750 college

scholarships to Dreamers attending over 80 partner colleges in 21 states and Washington, DC. We believe everyone, regardless of where they were born, should have equitable access to a college education, a meaningful career, and opportunities to contribute to the communities they call home. Visit www.thedream.us for more information.

About SUNY Old Westbury

SUNY Old Westbury is a college where students with a passion for learning are empowered through excellence to thrive in, and help build, a more just, sustainable world. As Long Island’s only public liberal arts college, SUNY Old Westbury challenges its students to own their futures through an environment that demands academic excellence and fosters intercultural understanding. As members of the most diverse student body in the SUNY system, the College’s more than 4,200 students study in nearly 50 undergraduate degree opportunities in Old Westbury’s liberal arts and professional programs and 16 graduate programs in business, data science, education, liberal studies and mental health counseling. For more information on SUNY Old Westbury, visit www.oldwestbury.edu.

Guiding Young Adults Toward Successful Careers

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

On the surface, the future looks bright for spring’s college grads, with employers planning to hire nearly 15 percent more candidates from the class of 2023 than in the previous year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Dig a little deeper, however, and the outlook gets murkier, cautions career coach Beth Hendler-Grunt.

“College graduates struggle to find jobs due to competition, lack of work experience and not understanding employer expectations,” she said. “And their parents are frustrated. They want to help, and they’re not sure how. Many parents haven’t looked for a job in over 20-plus years, and things have definitely changed in that time.”

How can parents help?

What should grads do?

Hendler-Grunt’s new book, The Next Great Step: The Parents’ Guide to Launching Your New Grad Into a Career , gives parents a simple, step-by-step plan for successfully guiding their young adults through the transition from college to career.

Filled with tips, job aids and insightful stories, The Next Great Step addresses everything from how parents can help their young adults get “unstuck” and navigate the hiring process, to how students and grads can stand out from the rest of the graduating class. Hendler-Grunt shares the secrets of how to “network” the right way and excel in interviews, and how parents can offer solid career advice to their grad.

The Next Great Step provides insights from three key perspectives: the concerns of the parent, the thought process of the student and the expectations of potential employers.

“Navigating the post-college job world is all about developing and

implementing the right strategies,” Hendler-Grunt said. “This book is required reading for families looking to navigate a changing world from college to career. Companies need new grads. It’s just a matter of connecting the dots.” Hendler-Grunt is the founder and president of Next Great Step (www. nextgreatstep.com). She is a dynamic leader, advisor and facilitator who has extensive experience consulting with startups, Fortune 500 firms, universities and individuals. She founded Next Great Step with the sole focus of guiding college students and recent grads to help them land the job they deserve. Hendler-Grunt leverages techniques and insights from hiring managers and CEOs and brings those secrets to students to help them stand out and get the job. She has enabled hundreds of clients to achieve success, with 90 percent of her clients landing the job of their choice. She has been featured in The Wall Street Journal , The New York Times , SiriusXM radio, Kiplinger , CNN, Fortune and many other media outlets. She is also the mom of a recent college

job.

grad and college sophomore...so she gets it.

Purchase a copy of The Next Great Step: The Parents’ Guide to Launching Your New Grad Into a Career on Amazon, at Barnes and Noble and other online book retailers.

Stony Brook Student Awarded For Speaking Out For Animals

This year Animalearn is pleased to recognize Laura Streminsky as one of the Humane Students of the Year. She exemplifies a commitment to helping animals used in science education.

Animalearn learned about Streminsky, a biology major at Stony Brook University, earlier this year in an article entitled “Student’s views dubbed “extreme” by biology professor,” in her school newspaper, The Statesman. Streminsky had voiced her ethical opposition to dissecting a rat and live earthworm in her biology class in early 2022. Her request for an alternative assignment was met with resistance by faculty. She was labeled as extremist, culturally insensitive, and advised that her grade would be negatively impacted if she did not participate in the dissections.

“As someone who aspires for a career in medicine, I’m repeatedly told that my ability to treat patients is hindered by my refusal to exploit animals,” Streminsky explained. “In response, I say that I’m

concerned about any medical professional who doesn’t have any reservations in hurting another sentient being. The ultimate goal of medicine (and science in general) should be to minimize suffering in the world as much as possible.”

As founder of her high school’s animal rights group, Streminsky has been advocating on behalf of animals for many years. Ultimately, she was allowed to opt out of the dissections without penalty to her grade. She is now looking into forming an animal rights group at Stony Brook, which would be the first of its kind at the university.

“This award shows me that I’m supported in my effort to advocate for animals, despite the resistance I’ve received from people who are ok with the status quo,” Streminsky said. “The encouragement I’ve received from Animalearn has made me more motivated than ever to continue standing up for animals and for humane science education.”

“As educators are aware, the future is

in the classroom. With more and more humane students like Laura, I look forward to the future that they are creating for all sentient beings,” said Alisa Brooks, Assistant Director of Animalearn.

As part of the award, Streminsky

will receive Dissection Action Packs from Animalearn to assist in furthering their pursuit of humane science education for all.

—Animalearn, a division of the American Anti-Vivisection Society (Animalearn.org)

Bradley Nanoo (center) from the Plainview-Old Bethpage CSD was named Student of the Quarter at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech career and technical education high school. Bradley, from John F. Kennedy High School, is Construction Electricity. Students of the Quarter are honored for their grades, attendance, work ethic and preparedness. These students have taken the initiative on class projects and are role models for their fellow students, in both the classroom and the workplace. Nanoo is pictured with Barry Tech Principal Peter Dalton and Assistant Principal Nafesa Khan.

Nassau BOCES

Laura Streminsky

Federal Student Loan Payment Pause Extended

On Dec. 22, the Office of Federal Student Aid at U.S. Department of Education sent this letter to students with Federal Student Loans with an update on the loan repayment pause plan:

“As we previously announced, we have extended the pause on federal student loan payments. You will NOT have to make your loan payments that would have been restarted in January.

“Why are we extending the pause? Because earlier this year, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a student debt relief plan for working and middle-class borrowers. Millions of Americans applied and were found to be eligible for relief. But lawsuits challenged the program and froze our ability to finalize debt relief.

“We are confident that our program is legal and have asked the Supreme Court to allow us to move forward with providing debt relief to tens of millions of eligible Americans. The Supreme Court

agreed to take our case and will hear arguments this February.

“Targeted student debt relief addresses the financial harms of the pandemic, helps smooth borrowers’ transition back to repayment and helps borrowers at highest risk of delinquencies or default once payments resume. And while litigation is preventing us from providing the relief needed to avoid these harms, we don’t think it is right to ask borrowers to pay on loans they wouldn’t have to pay were it not for the lawsuits challenging the program. Millions of borrowers would be making payments they may not owe, or payments that are higher than they should be, under the Biden-Harris debt relief plan. That’s not fair.

“As a result, we have extended the pause on federal student loan payments, interest, and collections. The pause will end 60 days after the Supreme Court makes a decision on the case. If no decision has been made by June 30, 2023, payments will resume 60 days after that.

“We will notify you directly before

payments restart.

“Visit StudentAid.gov/coronavirus regularly for the latest information on the payment pause and other COVID-19 relief.”

Beware Of Scams

You might be contacted by a company saying they will help you get loan discharge, forgiveness, cancellation, or debt relief for a fee. You never have to pay for help with your federal student aid. Make sure you work only with the U.S.

Department of Education and our loan servicers, and never reveal your personal information or account password to anyone.

Emails to borrowers come from noreply@studentaid.gov, noreply@ debtrelief.studentaid.gov, or ed.gov@ public.govdelivery.com. You can report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by calling 1-877-382-4357 or by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Cutting Edge

There’s a community where you belong, no matter where you come from or what you want to achieve, at Queensborough Community College. Technicians, physicists, artists, health scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, dancers, filmmakers, web masters, writers, personal trainers, musicians, nurses, therapists, athletes …. more than 40 Queensborough degrees and specialties reflect the diversity, interests and strengths of our community. Here, students of every ability, life experience, background and circumstance are preparing for the workforce of tomorrow and fulfilling their dreams today. At Queensborough, the possibilities are infinite.

HOMES

Recently Sold

This beautiful ranch-style home located at 66 Olive St. the prestigious Lake Success community of Great Neck sold on Oct. 27 for $1,388,000. It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The 2,100-square foot home sits on a 14,000-square foot lot. It is in excellent condition and has a formal living room, a wood burning fireplace and a dining area. It has a nice-sized sunroom den and a spacious eat-in-kitchen. The basement is large and finished. It has an open recreation space with two finished rooms, a washer and dryer and a lot of storage space. It has an attached garage and nicely landscaped front and back yards.

HOME & DESIGN Winter Storm Damage

What does homeowners insurance cover?

As winter storms threaten many areas of the country, Insurance. com reminds homeowners and renters that it’s also a good time to double-check insurance policies to confirm what is covered should snow and ice cause damage.

There are a variety of factors that determine whether insurance covers any part of the repair costs related to damage caused by snow, ice or blizzards.

This leading insurance comparison site helps homeowners understand what is covered by winter weather damage, depending upon whether damage occurs due to:

• Frozen pipes

• Hail damage

• Wind damage

• Tree falling on the property

• Snow and ice damage

• Fire

• Slips and falls

About Insurance.com

Insurance.com is owned and operated by QuinStreet, Inc. (Nasdaq: QNST), a leader in providing performance marketplace technologies and services to the FinTech, financial services and home services industries.

QuinStreet is a pioneer in delivering online marketplace solutions to match searchers with brands in digital media. The company is committed to providing consumers with the information and tools they need to research, find and select the products and brands that meet their needs.

CarInsurance.com is a member of QuinStreet’s expert research and publishing division.

This center hall Colonial at 39 Meadow Woods Rd. in Lake Success sold on Dec. 1 for $1,410,000. It is in the Meadow Woods section of the hamlet. It has a gracious entry foyer and an elegant formal living room with a woodburning fireplace. It has a formal dining room and an eat-in-kitchen that leads to a den overlooking a wonderful backyard. The home has five bedrooms and four bathrooms. It has central air conditioning. The home is privvy to the Lake Success Country Club community which includes an Olympic-sized pool, a kiddie pool, 11 tennis courts, a sports complex and an 18-hole golf course. Lake Success also has a private gym and its own police department.

Experts recommend comparing home insurance policies to ensure the best home protection. Though most hazards listed above are generally covered by insurance, filing a claim isn’t always the “go-to answer” for winter weather problems. There are also steps to take to avoid costly homeowners insurance claims.

Insurance.com is a trusted online resource dedicated to educating consumers on auto, home, health and life insurance, developing relationships directly with carriers to offer consumers comparison rates from multiple companies. Since 2001, Insurance.com’s industry-first online tools, data-based reporting and experienced experts have helped consumers make informed insurance-related decisions, so they can choose the right insurance for their individual needs.

—Insurance.com

Homes shown here represent closed sales, sold by a variety of agencies and are selected for their interest to readers by the Anton Media Group editor. Except where noted, data and photos are provided courtesy of Multiple Listing Service of Long Island, Inc. and Zillow.

REPLACE. RENEW. RESTORE.

Sleep plays a vital role in the body’s

BOOK TALK

Tales From The Baby Bust Review Of: I Walk Between the Raindrops

JOSEPH SCOTCHIE

jscotchie@antonmediagroup.com

Is T.C. Boyle his generation’s answer to John Updike? From 1979, when he published his first book, Descent of Man onward, the man has published up to 30 volumes of fiction, divided between novels and short stories. I’ll plead ignorance to those books. Decades ago, John Aldridge, writing in Sewanee Review, the literary quarterly I once revered over all others, dismissed Boyle and Donald Barthelme as “fabulists,” mere technicians and talents at all.

Boyle is a born storyteller. He has not wasted his gifts. I Walk Between the Raindrops is a bleak collection. Updike was the novelist for the Baby Boom, that era from 1945 to 1972, when childbirth among married, twenty-something women was as natural as coffee and toast in the morning. In 1955, for instance, half of all American women, by the time they reached 20 years old, were married. That year also saw the greatest number of live births in American history.

Is Boyle a novelist for the Baby Bust? It probably isn’t his intent. Still, the characters in this collection do live atomistic lives. Do any of them have parents, siblings, grandparents, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins? I read this collection after a reappraisal of Mario Puzo’s 1964 novel, The Fortunate Pilgrim. In that concise classic, family was everything. A mother of six who has lost two husbands has to carry on. It’s the Angluzzi-Corbo family against the world. Heartache after heartache ensues, but the family matron, Lucia Santa, keeps the family together with undying love. The escape from Hell’s Kitchen to Long Island proves successful.

In these stories, characters seem to live meaningless lives. In “What’s Love Got To Do With It?,” a college student, who has but one friend in his world---and no family to speak of, is rebuffed by a blonde co-ed. Does this mean you shoot up the campus---and yourself?

In the title story, a middle-aged retiree with plenty of money trolls a roadside bar in rural Arizona. He makes eye contact with a desperate thirty-something single woman. Brandon who is married and childless, rebuffs Serena’s advances. His

wife comes into the bar. Serena promptly lies down in front of the railroad tracks. See what you get by straying from home and hearth?

On it goes. In “These Are The Circumstances,” a California man, married to a nature-loving woman, is bitten by a snake. The end of the line? The man, Nick, discovers that he is free of a life-threatening disease. Nick and Laurel celebrate with gourmet pizza and a bottle of Chianti. They, too, are childless and well-to-do. The reader is glad, but how bad was the scare?

In “The Shape Of A Teardrop,” an undergraduate named Justin impregnates Lorena, a Latina co-ed. Seven years on, the man still lives at home. His parents, who have no other children, have him evicted. The mother of his child hangs around, hoping that the father graduates into adulthood. No chance. Justin’s mother always wanted children. At age 41, she became pregnant with her only son. And so, the mother loves her son despite his perpetual adolescence. She will spoil him forever. You can’t feel for Justin, but you can have sympathy for the luckless Lorena.

Boyle’s well-honed skills can have devastating effects. The purpose of fiction is always the search for the humane. The author scores with “Dog Lab,” in which a medical student saves a canine from further lab experiences. “Big Mary” is my favorite. A guitarist and a bass player

T.C. Boyle

compete for the same girl, a blues singer who lights up the band. The guitarist, whom the reader roots for, has the girl and then loses her to a bassist, a middle-class black man who pretends to be a “Rastaman.” This wins over the singer. The guitarist doesn’t back down. The two men square off, haymakers both ways. The bar crowd, rough hewn workingmen grows to dislike Mary’s choice. More trouble. For the guitarist, however, the fight is strictly over a girl. He must fight the man who takes her away.

Back to the original question: Is Boyle is generation’s answer to John Updike?

Updike’s world often involves family men who stray from hearth and home before seeing the light and making up with the broken family they created in the first place. These characters have no extended family to lean on. And so, the abyss beckons try as their characters believe they can avoid it.

North Shore Land Alliance Protects Water With Hydro-Action Septic Technology

The North Shore Land Alliance is leading the charge by installing a new, eco-conscious Hydro-Action clean water septic system at their newly remodeled headquarters at the Humes Preserve in Mill Neck. This was made possible by a generous donation from Wastewater Works, Inc. for the system, and grant from Nassau County’s SEPTIC program for the installation. The HydroAction septic system will remove harmful chemicals like nitrogen from wastewater ultimately protecting our bays, harbors, and sole source aquifer.

The North Shore Land Alliance is dedicated to the conservation and stewardship of Long Island’s natural and historic lands, waters, and environmental resources. Through education, outreach and volunteerism, the Land Alliance aspires to connect people to nature and build a community conservation ethic.

Residents are cordially invited to view headquarters this February. When visiting you can also check out

the Land Alliance’s clean water septic system as well as the state-of-the-art, carbon-minimizing geothermal energy system. Stormwater runoff preventing rain gardens to follow this spring.

It is imperative that we work together as a community to protect our open spaces and water resources. By upgrading our homes with environmentally friendly technologies we can improve water quality, reduce CO2 emissions, and protect wildlife.

If you’re interested in receiving a grant to upgrade your outdated and polluting septic system, check out Nassau County’s SEPTIC program at nassaucountyny.gov/ SepticReplace. You may be eligible for $20,000 to switch to clean water septic technology.

To learn about the North Shore Land Alliance please visit www.northshorelandalliance.org.

—Submitted by the North Shore Land Alliance

By Holiday Mathis

By Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You believe in the importance of helping others, but while you’re chasing after something you want, your philanthropic instincts move to the back burner. It’s OK! Generosity begins at home! Many a noble accomplishment begins with satisfying one’s own hunger.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). E ective communication has to do with the way you convey information as much as it does the information itself. You’ll gure out the main point and cater the tone of your delivery to what you guess the audience would be most receptive to. You’re so good at this and will often get exactly what you want.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). “Sorcery” derives from the Latin word “sors,” meaning fate. Your determined e orts to in uence fate will have you coming across as magical. Only you know all that’s involved in overnight success and instant transformation. Unless you tell them, they’ll have no idea how hard you work to make it look easy.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). An engaging project dominates your week. ough you’ve often been lauded for your originality, there’s no need to reinvent the wheel with this one. Instead of starting from scratch, use what already exists and give it a twist or an improvement. A fresh turn on an old way of doing things will be lucrative.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You celebrate people for who they are and how they show up even when it’s di erent from the way you would do it. Some are sweet and agreeable; others are edgy and real. Neither is more correct. You accept and include a wide array of personalities. It’s part of what makes your team so strong. You’ll win together this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). A hitchhiker who is walking toward their destination is more likely to be picked up than one who is standing still with a sign. While hitchhiking is not advised, moving toward your purpose is absolutely the way to attract fellow travelers who can help you get there faster.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). ere are things that look nice from the outside -- a boat, marriage to royalty, a pony -- that are actually a lot more work than appearances suggest. Enjoy your fantasies without feeling you must move to make all of them real. e worthwhile pursuits will make your life easier, not more complicated.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It may be di cult to admit how much a certain someone’s opinion matters to you, but once you accept it and examine your reasoning behind needing this validation, it becomes less true. is is just another puzzle to solve on your road to self-love, acceptance and realization.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). As the saying goes, it takes two to tango. Even so, it only takes one to practice the tango steps. You can work on the steps alone to get ready for dancing with a partner. Your solo preparation will be the magic ingredient that makes a relationship dance beautifully this week.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). What you thought would be an easy task has become convoluted. If you have a mind full of question marks, it’s probably because you’re considering the topic more broadly or deeply than the others, and you are probably wise to do so. Only the very young or very immature think they know everything.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). True friends will re ect to you your best qualities. If being around a person leaves you feeling somehow diminished, it’s not a good match. What seems good on paper is meaningless. What matters is how you feel when you’re together.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You’re not interested in getting pro cient at the task; you want to master it. With that intent, you will. It happens little by little over time. Rearrange your schedule and environment to accommodate your passion. Getting in a few more repetitions per day will add up and just may be what puts you over the top.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

Some miss the forest for the trees, but not you. Your mind has the amazing versatility of satellite imaging, and you’ll see the scene from the distance that helps you get clarity on the moment. You see the forest, you see the trees, the mushroom, the swallow, the mountain, valley, river, ocean and beyond. You’ll have insights and revelations about your relationships as well as ideas for creating truly special times, healthful routines and opportunities for building bonds of mutual support.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Poetry in motion

Solution: 26 Letters

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction but always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 26 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Poetry in motion

Arnold Attar Aubade Bion Blake Bronte Burns Caesura Canon Chasm Dada

26 Letters Arnold Attar Aubade Bion Blake Bronte Burns Caesura

Canon Chasm Dada Donne Elegy Free verse Frost Gascoigne Ginsberg Gosse Haiku Hamartia Hood

2023 Australian Word Games

©

Let’s say you win the heart lead with the jack and play the king of diamonds. West wins with the ace

Hugo Hunt Limerick Longfellow Muir Odes Owen Pentameter Pindar Plath Racine Beautiful rhymes with a reason

Simile Tagore Tasso Theme Thomas Whitman Wilcox Yeats

and returns another heart, which you take with the ace. At this point you inaugurate a campaign to learn all you possibly can about the distribution of the unseen cards.

The first thing you do is cash dummy’s king of hearts, on which East discards a diamond. Next, you cash the Q-J of diamonds, on which West discards a heart. Both of these moves prove enlightening, because you learn that West started with five hearts and two diamonds, and that East started with two hearts and five diamonds.

You next cash the Q-K-A of spades, and when West discards a heart on the third spade, you have all the information you need to wrap up the slam. West started with exactly five hearts, two spades and two diamonds, so he must have been dealt precisely four clubs.

Taking advantage of this knowledge is as easy as pie. You cash dummy’s king of clubs, lead a low club to your ace and return a third club toward dummy’s Q-10. When West follows low, you finesse the

mathematics

Solution:

Weekly Sudoku Puzzle

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

Request for Proposal

A nonpro t organization in Plandome, NY is seeking sealed bids for sales and installation of security related enhancements. This project is speci cally for installation of blast and forced entry resistant lm/tinting on exterior windows and doors. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of security grade resistant lm, adherence to projected work schedule, prior experience and capabilities, completeness of o er, references, and cost.

Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at securingcommunities@gmail.com

All interested rms will be required to acknowledge receipt of proposal documents and provide primary contact, telephone, and email address.

Bids will be accepted until Saturday, March 4th, 2023. Work is to commence by June 26th, 2023 and be completed by October 27th, 2023.

AUTO / MOTORCYCLE

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277

Drive Out Breast Cancer: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup - 24hr Response Tax Deduction - Easy To Do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755

Wheels For Wishes benefiting MakeA-Wish® Northeast New York. Your Car Donations Matter NOW More Than Ever! Free Vehicle Pick Up ANYWHERE. We Accept Most Vehicles Running or Not. 100% Tax Deductible. Minimal To No Human Contact. Call: (877) 798-9474. Car Donation Foundation d/b/a Wheels For Wishes. www.wheelsforwishes.org.

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM!

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

FINANCE

ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)

HEALTH / WELLNESS

ATTENTION VIAGRA USERS: Generic 100mg blue pills or generic 20mg yellow pills. Get 45 plus 5 free $99 + S/H. Call Today. 877-707-5523

HOME SERVICES

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

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

Small Floral Park CPA rm looking for per diem CPA to help with tax season. Duties include preparing or reviewing tax returns. Knowledge of UltraTax a plus. Salary commensurate with experience. Fax resume with salary request to 516-354-2207.

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23. 1-866-595-6967

Don’t Pay For Covered Home Repairs Again! American Residential Warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE/ $100 OFF POPULAR PLANS. 833-398-0526

Get DIRECTV for $64.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-534-6918

New York State

local

because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, age, marital status, sexual orientation or disability in connection with the rental, sale or financing of real estate. Nassau also prohibits source of income discrimination. Anton Community Newspapers does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination, call Long Island Housing Services’ Discrimination Complaint Line at 800660-6920. (Long Island Housing Services is the Fair Housing Agency of Nassau and Suffolk Counties.)

SYOSSET

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LSY BK LLC Arts. Of Org. filed with Secy. Of State of N.Y.(SSNY) on 11/28/22. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 107 Saddle Ridge Lane, Woodbury NY 11797 which is also the principal business location. Purpose: any lawful activity.

1-18-11-4-2023; 12-28-2114-2022-6T-#236309SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKCOUNTY OF NASSAU BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, V. ALTHEA M. TRAVIS, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated September 30, 2022, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, wherein BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION is the Plaintiff and ALTHEA M. TRAVIS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 24, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 66 HUMPHREY DRIVE, SYOSSET, NY 11791: Section 15, Block 23, Lot 53: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT SYOSSET, (UNINCORPORATED AREA) TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 019162/2010. Rita Solomon, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 1-11-4-2023;12-28-21-20224T-#236281-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF H. CLUB HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Pltf. vs. JOSEPH DEFALCO, JR., et al, Defts. Index #601428/2020. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Oct. 11, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 26, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., prem. k/a 13 Hunt Court, Unit 13, Jericho, NY a/k/a Section 17, Block 18, Lot 13. Said property being at Jericho, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of NY, known and designated as Lot No. 13 on a certain sub-division map entitled, “Map of The Hunt Club, situated at Jericho, Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York” dated March 31, 1986 and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on Nov. 24, 1987 as Case No. 9243. Approx. amt. of judgment is $16,024.73 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the auction.

LAWRENCE M. SCHAFFER, Referee. JAY L. YACKOW, Attys. for Pltf., 355 Post Avenue, Ste. 201, Westbury, NY. #99928

1-18-11-4-2023; 12-28-212022-5T-#236283-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR HECM ACQUISITION

TRUST 2018-1, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE, Plaintiff AGAINST VICTORIA S. ORTIZ, ROLANDO P. ORTIZ, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 24, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 24, 2023 at 3:00PM, premises known as 78 BARRY LANE, SYOSSET, NY 11791. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Syosset, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 15, Block F, Lot 1431. Approximate amount of judgment $846,886.44 plus interest and costs. Premises

will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #606948/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Russell S. Burman, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-008149 73992 1-11-4-2023; 12-28-21-20224T-#236290-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of FAFO 4 LLC, a domestic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/29/2022.

Office location: 18 Park Dr. E, Syosset, NY 11791. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 18 Park Dr. E, Syosset, NY 11791. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

1-25-18-11-4-2023; 12-28-21-2022-4T-#236568SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintriff, CONSTANCE AQUINO, ROBERT J. AQUINO, MONICA AQUINO A/K/A MONICA A. AQUINO, ET AL, Defendant.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on August 16, 2019, I, Audra A. Divone, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 1, 2023 at The North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, County of Nassau, State of New York, at 2:00 PM the premises described as follows:

2 Copperfield Lane

Old Brookville, NY 11545

SBL No: 22- K -02300

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 003205/2016 in the amount of $1,264,633.47 plus interest

and costs.

Foreclosure Auctions will be held Rain or Shine. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the foreclosure auction.

Richard S. Mullen Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Plaintiff’s Attorney 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 1-25-18-11-4-2023-4T#236635-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU CIT BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST HARENDRA SINGH, RUBY SINGH, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 10, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 1, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 310 LAUREL LANE, SYOSSET, NY 11791. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Laurel Hollow, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 14, Block 027, Lot 10. Approximate amount of judgment $2,933,483.24 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #006034/2016. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-002378 74285 1-25-18-11-4-20234T-#236832-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLICHEARING CALENDAR NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter , Section of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the

Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals:

BYORDER OFTHE ZONINGBOARDOF APPEALS

APPEAL NO. 01-47 -

AMENDMENT SYOSSET

DINA EVANGELISTA: (A) Amend Decision of Zoning Board of Appeals, dated January 18, 2001 in order to Amend the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants to indicate a change in occupancy while still maintaining a Parent/Child relationship.

(B) Extend the Special Use Permit to maintain an existing second kitchen in a one-family dwelling for use as a Parent/Child residence.

S/s/o Bluebird Dr., 80 ft. W/o Arbor Rd., a/k/a 50 Bluebird Drive, Syosset, NY APPEAL NO. 23-27

WOODBURY

JASON SCHULMAN: (A) Variance to construct masonry porch having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct masonry deck with steps to grade having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to construct masonry decks with steps to grade, pergola, covered masonry porch, portico and one story front addition exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to construct masonry decks, pergola, covered masonry porch and one story front addition

exceeding maximum gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. (E) Variance to construct circular driveway having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. N/s/o Polo Ct., 241.97 ft. E/o The Grasslands, a/k/a 5 Polo Court, Woodbury, NY APPEAL NO. 23-29

SYOSSET

GIAMPIERO CRECCO: (A) Variance to construct attached garage having less average side/front yard setback (Gary Road) than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct roofed over patio and attached garage having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (C) Variance to construct roofed over patio, attached garage, 10.3 ft. by 8 ft. shed and 14.3 ft. by 8 ft. shed exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing 10.3 ft. by 8 ft. shed and 14.3 ft. by 8 ft. shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (E) Variance to allow existing 10.3 ft. by 8 ft. shed having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (F) Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high wood fence exceeding maximum height across front yard (Terrehans Lane) than permitted by Ordinance. SE/ cor. of Gary Rd. & Terrehans Ln., a/k/a 60 Gary Road, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-30

SYOSSET

MARIAM NAWABI: Variance to construct wood deck

exceeding maximum building coverage and gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. NW/ cor. of Pine Rd. & Pine Rd ., a/k/a 34 Pine Road, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-31

SYOSSET

JORDAN SCHNEIDMAN: (A) Variance to allow existing generator having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct open front porch and rear addition exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. W/s/o Ann Dr., 531.25 ft. S/o Harriet Dr., a/k/a 16 Ann Drive, Syosset, NY

APPEAL NO. 23-32

SYOSSET

CHARLES SEMINARIO: (A) Variance to construct new dwelling having less side yard setback and aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct detached garage having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (C) Variance to construct new dwelling and detached garage exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. N/s/o Calvin Ave., 1351.56 ft. W/o Berry Hill Rd., a/k/a 56 Calvin Avenue, Syosset, NY JANUARY 9, 2023

BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 1-11-2023-1T-#236870-SYO/ JER

Rabbi Levenson Appointed To Town Of Oyster Bay’s Independent Ethics Board

Continuing their ongoing commitment to increase transparency and ethics in the Town of Oyster Bay, Supervisor Joseph Saladino and members of the Town Board recently appointed Rabbi Dr. Joel Levenson to the Town of Oyster Bay’s Board of Ethics.

“We welcome Rabbi Levenson to the Board of Ethics and thank him for volunteering the time needed to best serve the public,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The Town Board of Ethics helps advance accountability and transparency in government, and this independent group of wonderful individuals will continue to help the

Town in our ongoing pledge to maintain the highest level of ethics in government.”

Rabbi Dr. Levenson serves a wide spectrum of populations handling pastoral needs as well as dynamic programs for diverse populations including young families, teens, preschool, and empty nesters at the Midway Jewish Center in Syosset. A Chaplain with the New York National Guard, Rabbi Dr. Levenson earned a doctorate in Pastoral Care & Counseling from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and was ordained at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he also received a Masters Degree in Jewish

Education. He earned a B.A. from Miami University in Oxford, OH with degrees in Psychology and Political science, with studies abroad at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He is a former president of the Long Island Board of Rabbis. Rabbi Dr. Levenson and his wife, Leora Cohen, are proud parents of three wonderful children: Shir, Sam and Gideon.

Ethics reforms have been a priority of the Saladino administration. In fact, the rules governing the Town of Oyster Bay Ethics Board were enhanced by Supervisor Saladino and the Town Board to provide real and meaningful oversight. In addition to re-

viewing financial disclosure statements, the board works to provide clear and reasonable standards of ethical conduct to officers and employees of the town. Together, the Town Board and supervisor have also instituted disclosure requirements for contractors, vendors and high-level employees to prevent conflicts of interest and misdeeds. An individual who previously worked with the FBI, CIA and DEA was hired to serve as Long Island’s and the town’s first-ever inspector general to protect the wallets of taxpayers by overseeing contracts and procurement.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Residents Reminded To Turn ‘Trash Into Cash’

Glass products returning to town recycling stream

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined his colleagues in town government Councilman Lou Imbroto, Councilwoman Laura Maier and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato to bring good news to town residents who receive town recycling collection. Beginning in January, the town will return glass to its recycling collection, allowing residents to place plastics, metals and glass all in their

yellow collection pail. In addition, officials reminded residents to help turn ‘trash into cash’ by recycling cardboard, which should be bundled and placed beside recycling containers on collection day. The town receives a rebate for cardboard recycling, which directly benefits residents.

Supervisor Saladino said, “Residents can help protect the environment and

turn trash into cash by recycling glass and cardboard boxes on their regular recycling collection day. In addition to expanding the recycling program to include additional types of plastic, we will also return glass to the recycling stream. The Town of Oyster Bay is committed to being a regional recycling leader and I thank you in advance for helping us reach that goal.”

Officials also reminded residents to bundle their cardboard and paper products beside their yellow recycling pail, either broken down and placed inside a larger box or bundled with string. Residents can expect to see individual pickups for these items, with separate collections for cardboard from other recycling.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

The Starry Not?

Westbury postponement is one of many for “Beyond Van Gogh,” one of multiple ‘immersive’ traveling Vincent van Gogh

exhibits

JANET BURNS & JENNIFER CORR

editors@antonmediagroup.com

Long Island art-lovers will have to wait nearly two more months to immerse themselves in the work of Vincent van Gogh this winter following the last-minute postponement of “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience.”

The “Beyond Van Gogh” exhibit, one of several unaffiliated ‘immersive’ van Gogh exhibits touring the country and globe in the past few years, was scheduled to run at Samanea New York in Westbury from November 18, 2022 to January 8, 2022.

The exhibit will now run from February 3, 2023 to April 2, 2023, according to “Beyond Van Gogh” public statements and its site-specific website for Long Island.

Local ticket-holders complained on a Facebook page for the Long Island installation of the show about its seemingly sudden postponement, with multiple people saying they hadn’t received any kind of notification that the exhibit had been pushed back; some people found out when they showed up to Samanea New York and found an empty, unfinished gallery space.

It seems that Long Island ticket-holders aren’t alone in feeling frustrated toward, or treated unfairly by, the proprietors of “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience.”

On November 28, NJ.com reported that the “Beyond Van Gogh” show that was scheduled to run from December 1 to January 29 at New Jersey’s American Dream mall was also “abruptly” postponed.

In the past year and a half, this particular touring van Gogh show has also delayed or cancelled its runs in at least five additional North American cities: Grand Rapids, MI; Detroit, MI; Halifax, NS; Calgary, AB; Victoria, BC.

In nearly every case, public relations representatives for “Beyond Van Gogh” have cited “unforeseen circumstances and production delays.” The exhibit has also been

reported to the Better Business Bureau via online comments regarding at least one U.S. exhibit and one in Canada.

On the main website for “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” dozens of other cities around the world are listed as having already shown and closed the exhibit, or having upcoming shows with tickets available for pre-sale.

Representatives for “Beyond Van Gogh:

The Immersive Experience” did not respond to requests for comment by press time.

A representative for Samanea New York said the venue is “working with the ‘Beyond Van Gogh’ production team to provide whatever support they need for their opening, as we do for all of our new tenants where construction is involved.” Samanea New York, formerly Mall at the Source and Fortunoff, is owned by Lesso Mall Development (Long Island), Inc.

Tickets for “Beyond Van Gogh” start out at $34.99 for children and $55.99 for adults, and require ticket-holders to schedule a viewing time. In comparison, tickets for the touring exhibit “Immersive Van Gogh” start at $39.99 for off-peak and $54.99 for peak hours. Tickets for “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” meanwhile, start at $23.90 for children and go as high as $64.90 per person for Premium Flex Entry VIP.

In recent years, immersive ‘experiences’ in arts and culture have become increasingly popular, including ones centered on the now-largely public domain work of Vincent Willem van Gogh (1853-1890). The Dutch Post-Impressionist painter is credited with creating more than 2000 works over a decade while suffering from significant physical and mental conditions, and is recognized as having posthumously become one of the most influential artists in Western history.

A sign advises ticket-holders about the postponement of “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” at Samanea New York in Westbury.

The designated space for “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” at Samanea New York seems fundamentally unfinished as of December 5, 2022. (Credit: Janet Burns)

A promotional image for “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” via VanGoghLongIsland.com.

Numerous ticket-holders have complained about the postponement and refund process for “Beyond Van Gogh” on Facebook and Better Business Bureau sites. (Screenshot via Facebook)

The Most Wonderful Time Of Year: Girl Scout Cookie Season Returns

Buy a box of cookies to support girls as they become the leaders of tomorrow

Girl Scouts of Nassau County is excited to announce that its Girl Scout Cookie Program® will return in communities throughout Nassau County running now through March 8, 2023. In addition to making the delicious and iconic Girl Scout Cookies available to all, this over 100-year tradition gives Girl Scouts a hands-on lesson in entrepreneurship and business development. The program is part of the Girl Scouts’ ongoing efforts to empower, inspire and prepare the next generation of leaders.

“Everyone loves Girl Scout Cookies—but the program is about so much more than cookies. Our girls learn how to set goals and explore innovative ways to reach those goals, while building their confidence and entrepreneurial skills,” said Randell Bynum,

the chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Nassau County. “When you purchase cookies, you are helping girls power their Girl Scout adventures and community service projects, while teaching them invaluable skills that they’ll need to succeed throughout their lives. Support your local troop by buying a box today.”

Throughout the season, Girl Scouts from communities across Nassau County will be selling boxes of Girl Scout Cookies in-person to family and friends, online by setting up digital storefronts, and at booth sales in front of local stores and community centers. All proceeds from cookie sales go toward funding invaluable Girl Scouts experiences, activities and initiatives.

With the return of the Girl Scout Cookie

Book Fair At Robbins Lane

The Robbins Lane PTA recently hosted a hugely successful book fair. The students were able to shop with their classmates and teachers in the school library which had been transformed into a bookstore for the day! There were many wonderful choices among bestsellers, fiction, non-fiction and holiday themed books. In addition were the classic favorites of posters, pens, erasers, diaries and bookmarks! Each teacher was surprised and treated to a gift certificate for books for their own class libraries. All of the proceeds from the day fund the purchase of books for the library as well as PTA sponsored events at Robbins Lane.

— Submitted by Lynette Birnbaum, Robbins Lane PTA VP of Publicity Committee

JERECHO

These kids found books and their teacher from last year.

Program, Girl Scouts of Nassau County is also bringing back Operation Cookie and Hometown Heroes as its 2023 annual Gift of Caring Program. Through a partnership with DHL, customers could purchase boxes of cookies to be sent to active-duty members of the United States Military serving overseas, as well as at the local Marine Base in Garden City, the Coast Guard station at Jones Beach, and other New York military institutions.

“Each box purchased is a new door opened for a young girl in your community; an opportunity for them to explore their leadership potential, practice their creativity, build lifelong friendships and help make the world a better place,” said Bynum.

This year’s cookie line-up includes all

the classic favorites—Thin Mints®, Samoas®, Tagalongs®, Do-si-dos®, Trefoils®, Lemon-Ups®, Girl Scout S’mores®, and Toffee-tastic® —in addition to the return of last year’s debut cookie Adventurefuls® and this year’s newest cookie the Raspberry Rally, which will be available for purchase online only starting Feb. 27, 2023, while supplies last, for direct ship only. Girl Scout Cookies can only be purchased from a registered Girl Scout. Customers who would like to support their local Girl Scouts can purchase cookies in-person or online via the Digital Cookie platform that includes direct delivery. To find Girl Scouts selling cookies near you, visit www.girlscoutcookies.org.

—Submitted by Girl Scouts of Nassau County

New Social Studies Teacher Reigns Supreme

BY SHICHEN NI OF JERECHO editors@antonnews,com

Pursuing his dream to become an educator, newly hired social studies teacher Michael King gladly accepts the challenge of making his teaching atmosphere comfortable for his students.

As an undergraduate, King attended Georgetown University in Washington D.C. for a double major in international business and finance. He received his master’s degree in education at Molloy University.

Prior to Jericho, King worked in finance as a trader before making the switch in his career. King taught at Baruch College Campus High School in New York City for six years and another two years at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Manhasset. He said, “I’ve always had a love for history, and I love teaching and interacting with children.”

King is able to teach numerous social studies classes, including AP Economics, Entrepreneurship, Sociology of Institutions

and Facing History. “My trading career dealt with economics. So when I was offered the opportunity to come to Jericho to teach AP economics and business, it was just a great fit.”

Curriculum Associate of Social Studies Dr. Eric Sundberg was impressed with King’s demo lesson. He said, “He brings a lot of experience in micro and macro economics. As a practical matter, he also has several years of experience teaching AP government and history.”

Students are encouraged to take his classes if they are going to be active participants in society. “Economics is incredibly important. It impacts almost all of our political decisions,” said King. He believes students will have better knowledge of how to manage finance and business in the future.

Senior Shan Shan L. participates eagerly in King’s class. She said, “He goes over questions after writing the notes. If you

didn’t understand the question, he will go over the question and the definition again.”

King pauses the video and explains a vocabulary term to his period 5 Entrepreneurship class.

King tries to make every student feel comfortable to participate. “I think it’s important to create an environment of respect where all voices can be heard and all students feel represented,” he said.

According to senior and AP economics student Harry W., King constantly makes students feel engaged by making lots of jokes.

As one of the new members of the Jericho district, King aims to provide help and support for students and develop interesting and comprehensive lessons for his classes.

When not teaching, King enjoys spending time with his children and participating in beach volleyball.

—Submitted by JerEcho

Thumbs up.

(Photos courtesy Lynette Birnbaum, Robbins Lane PTA VP of Publicity Committee)

Michael King is a new social studies teacher at Jericho High School. (Photo courtesy JerEcho)