Syosset–Jericho Tribune 2/08/23 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

Book Talk: Sabrina Guo’s Catalogue Of Ripening

Syosset HS student from Oyster Bay Cove discusses her poetry

my heritage and just little moments in the house, moments that are unique to the neighborhood and moments that are unique to the relationships in my life.”

JENNIFER CORR

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

Catalogue of Ripening, written by Syosset High School senior Sabrina Guo, a resident of Oyster Bay Cove, is more than just a poetry book, it’s a journey.

This book was published in October, 2022 by the Children’s Art Foundation-Stone Soup Inc., a nonprofit literary magazine 100 percent written and illustrated by children ages 8 to 13. Guo has submitted her own work to this magazine and continues to work with them. “I have been writing since I was 10,” Guo said. “Poetry actually started as song lyrics, and then it transformed into poetry and the themes of everything I write also matured.”

“At first, it was just a name: Sabrina Guo,” said William Rubel, the co-founder and executive director of the Children’s Art Foundation-Stone Soup, in the foreword he wrote for the book. “A student whose work was repeatedly published in Stone Soup. In what was at the time our roughly forty-five years of publishing, there were other authors who were published multiple times. However, it soon became evident that Sabrina was besting our records. Besides repeated acceptances to the magazine, she was frequently sweeping our contests, reviewing books for our blog, and energetically corresponding with all of us via email.”

Guo, through multiple styles of poetry, tells tales of childhood curiosity and adventure while living with the reality that it’s a cruel and unfair world. Her poetry also provides a window into her Chinese heritage.

“The whole point of this book, as the Catalogue of Ripening, is to show my maturity and growth as an activist and as a writer,” Guo said. “The order of these poems are really thoughtfully placed to show my maturity... The stories that inspired them, a lot of them were moments I had written down first in my journal because I knew they were definitely life defining moments I knew I wanted to memorialize through poetry. These moments, these stories were all inspired by moments that I realized that this is something unique about my culture,

But then there’s also references to gun violence in schools, with a poem dedicated to the victims of the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. She later illustrates the experience of going through a lockdown drill.

“We all know that within the recent years, there have been people who abused the rights provided in the Second Amendment,” Guo said. “We have to, as the youth, do our part to uplift each others’ voices and one way I do this, besides through activism, is poetry, and the two really intertwine.”

She also talks about climate change, with a reference to the deadly yield of crops caused by drought at Poyang Lake. In that poem, Guo says she wants a world where fossil fuel isn’t burned and ocean lungs aren’t rotted, and that one day her children could swim in clear waters.

Guo brings to light the experiences of health care workers and patients during the pandemic; discussing the fear patients feel when getting a COVID-19 test, the re-using of personal protective equipment (PPE) because there is a lack of it and the overall grief, fear and death felt in hospitals. In March of 2020, Guo had started a non-profit called Long Island Laboring Against COVID-19 (LILAC) that raised thousands of dollars in PPE for local hospitals and health care facilities. Guo even donated collage money towards the cause.

“These two poems I tried to use a lot of imagery that a lot of people would relate to during this pandemic,” Guo said. “Imagery that really shows this grief and this loss and this desperation and this fear and this gratitude for family and community that’s been with you through these times.”

She dedicates a poem to her grandmother. And she later dedicates a poem to a passed-on friend named Delilah, who was abused at home.

“I hope this collection inspired by the diary Delilah actually left me, I hope that it can shed light on the experiences she endured and how much pain, parental abuse

and neglect can cause,” Guo said, adding that a note in the diary left by Delilah asks Guo to write about her story. “Through these poems I really seek to honor her and her memory through the stories she has left me to make her voice finally be heard.”

Guo also dedicates a poem to Marie Colvin, a war reporter from Oyster Bay who was killed covering the war in Syria. Guo has done much work to honor her legacy, including working with local officials to have a street renamed in her honor.

Rubel reflected in his foreword that Guo has always had the heart for activism, and that the team at Stone Soup found that out in the summer of 2018.

“The previous winter, my colleagues and I had decided that we would like to begin offering a space in Stone Soup for work by refugee youth whose lives had been upended by uncontrollable violence,” Rubel said. “But with limited resources, we needed volunteers with vision to help us out. So, we sent an appeal through our weekly newsletter. A few months later, I got an email from

twelve-year-old Sabrina. In the intervening months, Sabrina had been conducting research on photographers and artists working in refugee camps. She had found a film director and storytelling instructor working in a Syrian refugee camp–Laura Doggett, founder of the Another Kind of Girl Collective–and reached out to see if she could interview her via Skype and publish it on the Stone Soup Blog. Inspired by Laura’s efforts, and in consultation with Sabrina, we were finally able to launch the Stone Soup Refugee Project. It now has its own web portal, and we have ongoing programs in refugee camps in multiple countries. Sabrina provided the spark we needed.”

In the foreword, Rubel listed off Guo’s contributions to the local and international community, including her work with LILAC, as well as the non-profit she founded Girl Pride International, which works to empower marginalized female voices and lives through pen-pal programs, scholarships, virtual reading groups, mentoring and tutorship and creative contests.

“I bring up all of this not only to highlight the fact that Sabrina is an extraordinary young woman, but because her identity as a young social activist is essential to understanding her collection of poetry,” Rubel said.

To buy Catalogue of Ripening, which hit #1 New Release in Poetry for Teens & Young Adults on Amazon, visit Barnesandnoble.com or Amazon.com and type in the book title in the search bar.

About Sabrina Guo:

Guo is a Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) Scholar and a writer-activist who represented the USA to speak out against climate injustice and performed her poetry at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (COP26). She’s a recipient of the 2022 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden, a candidate for the 2023 US Presidential Scholars Program, and winner of the Civic Expression Award and nine national medals from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Her writing, music, activism, and humanitarian work have been commended by the White House, Michelle Obama, Senator Charles Schumer, and awarded the State Winner of the NYS PTA Youth Humanitarian Award and the NYS Senate Commendation Award. She was also a 2022 Princeton Prize in Race Relations honoree and named the winner of the 2022 Long Island Business News 30 Under 30 Next GEN Award.

The order of these poems are really thoughtfully placed to show my maturity... The stories that inspired them, a lot of them were moments I had written down first in my journal because I knew they were definitely life defining moments I knew I wanted to memorialize through poetry.

—Sabrina Guo

Catalogue of Ripening was published in October, 2022 by the Children’s Art Foundation-Stone Soup Inc. (Photo courtesy Sabrina Guo and the Chilren’s Art Foundation-Stone Soup Inc.)

Town To Upgrade Sports Fields At Syosset-Woodbury Park

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Laura Maier announce that the Town will upgrade baseball fields at Syosset-Woodbury Park. Two natural surface baseball infields will be fully converted to synthetic turf playing areas, allowing for increased playtime to local youth athletes.

“These important upgrades will enhance the overall playing experience for our little leaguers and others who use these fields, which is why the Town Board and I are making field improvements a top priority,” said Supervisor Saladino. “These upgrades are being achieved in the most cost-effective way while bringing added enjoyment to all who use them.”

Artificial turf fields have a general useful life of up to 10 years, however they are less

JERECHO

expensive than the long-term cost of maintaining natural grass and a dirt surface. Turf fields also provide the potential for fewer cancellations of games due to inclement weather, as the field is able to absorb rain storms in a manner that is not possible on a fully-dirt infield.

“Replacing these infields with synthetic turf allows for extended play time for athletes and brings a significant upgrade to this beautiful parks facility,” said Councilwoman Maier. “We are pleased to bring these enhancements to the Syosset-Woodbury community while keeping a watchful eye on our bottom line.” For more information about town parks, including local programs and events, visit the town’s website at www.oysterbaytown. com/parks.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Two Jericho Students Named Regeneron Finalists

Two Jericho seniors were named finalists in the Regeneron Science Talent Search – of only 40 named nationally and only three on Long Island. The students, Emily Kim and Kevin Zhu, were chosen from 1,949 applicants from 628 high schools across 48 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and four other countries. They will now compete for more than $1.8 million in awards during a weeklong competition in Washington, D.C. from March 9-15.

“We arethrilled to welcomethis inspiring and highly talented class of Regeneron Science Talent Search finalists,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO, Society for Science and Executive Publisher, Science News. “I am certain these extraordinary students will be following in the footsteps of our many accomplished alumni who are the forefront of breakthrough discoveries. The 2023 finalists will be using their leadership, intellect, creativity and STEM skills to solve our world’s most intractable challenges.”

The students submitted the following projects:

Emily Kim - The Dual Roles of Activated Carbon as an Adsorbent and Photocatalyst for Azo Dye Removal

Kevin Zhu - Recurrent Repeat Contrac-

tions and Micro-Changing Short Tandem Repeats: Investigating Underrepresented Factors of Polymorphism in Human Cancers —Submitted by the Jericho Union Free School District

Underage Sports Gambling Could Rise After Legalization Of Mobile Sports Betting

BY JESSY SIEGMANN OF JERECHO editors@antonnews.com

Mobile sports betting apps were legalized in New York State in early 2022. With 530,000 high school-aged male students already visiting other types of gambling sites each month, this new access is poised to increase underage gambling.

A Syosset high schooler who wishes to remain anonymous started using online sports betting sites as soon as they became legal and signed up for an account on DraftKings by using his parents’ information to log in, although he uses his own money. He said, “I enter my 50 bucks once, then I just keep using that money when I win.” He claims to use online betting sites for enjoyment and the excitement it brings, not for the money.

Underage gamblers see ads on many televised sports games that encourage them to start betting. Sites like DraftKings and Fanduel are used by several demographics, including underage sources.

DraftKings claims to host responsible gambling with a system of identification that attempts to enforce users to set realistic budgets. An anonymous DraftKings employee said, “We all have training on

responsible gaming. It’s something that is really enforced within their company because it is a very big aspect of the gambling business.”

When asked about DraftKings’ policy on suspicious behavior, the employee said, “I know they will communicate legally through messaging on platforms to make

sure they address what is going on with the legal team.”

The employee added, “I know there are people who are designated for this role, but it is a huge thing for us and we take proactive steps to prevent underage gambling.”

Rutgers University professor and director

of its Addiction Counselor Training Certificate Program Lia Nower commented on adolescent gambling addiction. She said, “Gambling is where alcohol was in the 1950s. Most adults do not think gambling can be a problem so they give kids lottery tickets. They introduce children to gambling at a young age, not realizing it’s just as addictive as drugs and alcohol.”

The rate of adolescents addicted to gambling is roughly double that of adults. “The prevalence rate of adults is around 3 to 5 percent so for youth it is 6 to 10 percent,” Nower said.

She added, “The starting point for all of this has got to be schools. I think that people need to be taught about gambling.”

Jericho High School social worker Ray Velez thinks students are unaware of how addictive and dangerous gambling can be. He said, “The younger you start the more progressive it can get, and the easier it is to get addicted.”

Teenagers make up half of the 16 million people in the United States with gambling addictions. With this ease of access at their fingertips, online sports betting could very well become a major issue for adolescents.

—Submitted by JerEcho

Play ball!

(Photo courtesy Unsplash)

Congratulations to Kevin Zhu and Emily Kim. (Photo by Denise Nash)

Mobile sports apps are heavily advertised during sporting events. (Photos provided by JerEcho)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

Cooking Demonstration - Heart Health With Andrea Massop-Ramos

In honor of Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane, invites patrons to explore the benefits of keeping their hearts in good shape from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Andrea Massop-Ramos will show participants how to prepare heart healthy foods that are delicious. Make sure to sign up by Feb. 6, as space is limited. Sign up at jericholibrary.org.

SUNDAY, FEB. 12

That’s Amore! Concert

“That’s Amore!” husband and wife duo, Vincent and Emily Ricciardi, share some of the most famous love duets and ballads of the 21st century at the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane in Jericho, at 2 p.m. In this show, the focus is on love, and a wide range of music genres have been hand selected to share with the audience - opera, Broadway, jazz, pop and many more. This power house singing couple shares the love duets of Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion, Mario Lanza and Maria Callas, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers and many more. This is a cozy show for Valentine’s Day and will surely warm the heart. For more informa-

tion, visit jericholibrary.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 14

Valentine’s Frog Cupcake

Children in grades three through five are invited to the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road in Syosset, from 4 to 5 p.m. to decorate a “toad”ally cute frog cupcake for Valentine’s Day and play a fun Valentine’s game. Chef Rob Scott will be leading this program. Please let the library know if your child has any food allergies. Sign up at the Syosset Public Library website, syossetlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15

Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands

During this program at the Jericho Public Library theater, 1 Merry Lane in Jericho, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. you will learn about the benefits of arts based modalities for the support and enrichment of the lives of those dealing with any form of memory loss or dementia. Creativity engages us in a more integrated mind, body, spirit experience and has many health benefits for those with memory loss concerns as well as our normal aging populations. Come learn ways to incorporate the gift of the arts into the lives of

your loved ones or for yourself as part of the normal aging process. All are welcome.

THURSDAY, FEB. 16

Seniors of Syosset Drop-In Session

Funded through the New York State Office for the Aging, Seniors of Syosset is a Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community program. This program, hosted at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, from 1:45 to 3:30 p.m., 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 library. 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, get involved!

MONDAY, FEB. 20

Photo 101

Did you just buy a new camera or do not understand how to use the one you already have? Rather than reading your 200+ page manual, take a Digital 101 Class. With this class, you’ll better understand the concepts of Digital SLR Photography. Common terminology will be reviewed as well as res-

olution, image size and compression, white balance, shooting pointers, storing, archiving and sending your photos via e-mail. This class is not a camera specific class. If you need a camera specific class, Berger Bros. Camera offers that as well. This class will take place at Berger Bros. Camera, 226 West Jericho Turnpike, in Syosset at 6:30 p.m. The cost of the class is $50 or free with the purchase of any DSLR camera from Berger Bros. To register or inquire, email classinfo@berger-bros.com or contact the education coordinator at 516-496-1000.

THURSDAY, FEB. 23

Phenomenal Physics with Mister Fish

In this fast paced entertaining show at the Jericho Public Library theater, 1 Merry Lane in Jericho, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Mister Fish will educate children about gravity, sound waves, air pressure and other forces of nature complete with interactive audience participation.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

Afternoon Book Discussion

Join Lisa Hollander, readers services librarian, at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road in Syosset, at 3 p.m. for an in-person discussion of the historical fiction novel The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner. Copies of the book will be available at the circulation desk one month before the program. No registration required.

Happy Valentine’s Day! (Photo courtesy Unsplash)

$23,000 a year in savings* from lighting upgrades means more of this for Long Island.

When the nonprofit Canine Companions requested a free energy assessment, we discovered that installing LED fixtures and other energy efficiency measures could save them nearly $2,000 a month. And with available PSEG Long Island rebates, the installation was affordable. Today, those changes have meant more funds for the mission of providing service dogs to Long Islanders with disabilities. And that means a better Long Island for us all.

Taking On The Mission To Heal Our Vets

Local organization is so much more than a rescue

AMANDA OLSEN

aolsen@antonmediagroup.com

In an unassuming storefront in a Nesconset strip mall, lives are being changed. Paws of War, a non-profit with a roster of programs aimed at helping both veterans and companion animals, is approaching its ten year anniversary. Since 2014, Paws of War has brought over 300 dogs and cats rescued by troops serving overseas to safety in the U.S. They have also provided hundreds of Veterans with service and support dogs rescued from kill shelters. Their slogan is “Helping both ends of the leash; Help a vet, save a pet.” And they are living it out everyday; all of their services are free to veterans and first responders.

When a veteran or first responder goes through a traumatic experience, it can be hard for those who love them to know how to help. These experiences can cause people to withdraw or bottle up their feelings. It is critically important to be supported by people with similar first-hand experiences, because only they can directly relate to what the individual is going through. Paws of War is different from a traditional rescue because many of the people there are also veterans. This creates a trusting community of people who know both the challenges of military service and how much caring for a pet can ease the transition back to civilian life.

Kelli Porti, an army veteran herself, is the Veteran and Community Outreach Liaison. She oversees operations, coordinating volunteers and helping to evaluate and place the pets. “Our main pillars are our War Torn Pups and Cats program, which is where we rescue on behalf of service members who are on deployment overseas. We bring the rescues here and then we reunite them. We also rescue out of state and locally, often being brought on to cases that are extremely rewarding, hoarding circumstances and also with puppy mills. Then we also have our training program in our onsite training facility. We provide the training here to either be a companion animal or service animal. They all start at basic obedience.”

Other programs in their cadre include therapy pets, which often go to camps and nursing homes; a mobile vet clinic called “Vets to Vets” that provides free pet wellness to veterans and first responders; Helping Heroes, which assists with home repairs and maintenance; and an outreach that helps vets care for their pets when they are un-housed or in the hospital.

Porti stated that it is the commonality of veterans helping veterans that make their organization special. “We’re not your everyday animal rescue. Because our veterans are our family, and our first responders are our family. So, you know, we have people who have moved and they come back and visit us; they keep

in touch. We’re always a part of each other because veterans feel comfortable being around other veterans and first responders feel the same way.”

Companion animals can help alleviate stress, lower blood pressure, and keep people more physically active. An American Heart Association survey found that the most common ways pets help their owners destress is through snuggles, followed by making their owners laugh and helping them feel less lonely. For people with PTSD, having a pet gives them a reason to get out and do more.

Porti confirms that interacting with Paws of War is often the catalyst for helping traumatized veterans and first responders heal. “Veterans and first responders…dealing with PTSD, they don’t really want to leave their house. It’s very difficult for them. But now that they have this training, and they’ve been coming to class, and they’ve been socializing, (all) because they’re taking care of this animal that they love now unconditionally, that unconditionally loves them. Now they’re feeling more comfortable coming to class, then they start saying hey, I’d like to try out and help out, you know, Paws of War going to this event, so it starts extending them to get out more and just to do things that normally they wouldn’t do.”

Besides rescuing animals overseas and domestically, Paws of War is also helping animals where they are. One example is pets left behind by Ukrainian refugees. Because of the War Torn program, there was already a network in place to get necessities to the border of Poland and Ukraine and then into the areas where they were needed most.

Mike Kilano, a Marine combat veteran, volunteers at Paws of War regularly. He cites the organization with helping him heal after his service. When he left the VA hospital he had gained 75 pounds and felt adrift. It seemed like there wasn’t much worth doing with himself and he became depressed. But when he found Paws of War, his sense of purpose returned. He became more grounded and was able to go out and do things for the organization. Slowly, he gained confidence and became more comfortable.

“I want to tell people, there is light at the end,” he said, smiling and stroking one of the rescues. “There is hope.”

Pumpkin, a beagle/miniature pincher mix, goes home Feb. 4.

(Photo by Cory Olsen)

Eric Lau of Merrick, a marine veteran and New York City reman, trains his Paws of War alum Hazel, the yorkie mix.

(Photo by Cory Olsen)

Blaze, a 2 year old Male standard Poodle, poses with Kelli Porti of Paws of War.

(Photo by Cory Olsen)

Gustav, a dog rescued overseas by a deployed service member, with Mike Kilano, a Paws of War volunteer

(Photo by Cory Olsen)

Callie, a golden retriever mix, waits for instruction from retired fire chief John Morrissey of Plainview. (Photo by Cory Olsen)

Bobby Q’s Jus Like Mama’s Is Food To Feed Your Soul

shot up to the top of the most requested menu items,” Ford said.

CHRISTY HINKO

chinko@antonmediagroup.com

Not to be confused with another similarly named establishment out east, Bobby Q’s of Freeport has recently opened its second location in September. The first and still existing restaurant on Main Street in Freeport survived through COVID and has sort of taken on a more on-the-go feel since it opened in 2017. The newest location, Bobby Q’s Jus Like Mama’s on Sunrise Highway is surely to become a dining destination once the word catches on far and wide.

Crime fighter by day, soul food chef by night, owner Bobby Ford’s expansion to the larger sit-down location is making his dreams a reality of bringing more dining services to the patrons who are tried and true fans of his six-generation Southern comfort food and seafood dishes.

“My mom taught us all about cooking; I am one of nine,” Ford said. “It is in our DNA; I am the one who took up the torch.”

Ford’s mother was originally from South Carolina before moving to Harlem with her family and then eventually to Brooklyn where Ford was born and raised.

Appetizers

The roasted sweet peppers, Bobby Q’s “pepper poppers” are filled with vegetarian stuffing and are a great place to start.

Salad/Soup/SIDES

Salad? There’s no salad in soul food. Just kidding. In Southern cooking, you do get plenty of vegetables through your side dishes like fried okra, mashed potatoes, whole ear corn and candied yams. Ford has spent a lot of time perfecting his dishes so that people who are vegan can even enjoy his collard greens and black eyed peas that are so surprisingly vegan. Many items on the menu are vegan to accommodate a diverse dining crowd.

I would be remiss if I did not sing the praise of Ford’s nine-cheese mac & cheese. This stuff is dynamite. It is the one thing that even after you are full, you could still find room to finish the bowl.

Entree

“Fried chicken and barbecue chicken have always been popular, but somewhere along the line fried fish and turkey wings

There is really something for everyone on the menu, from vegetarian options to the classic poultry, fish, seafood, steak, pork, sandwiches, platter options and sampler plates.

Something special about Bobby Q’s jerk chicken and pork is that it’s truly enjoyable jerk.

“It’s not spicy; it has a sweet component to it to mellow it out,” Ford said. “A lot of people really don’t like the spiciness, but they love the jerk flavor.”

Jus Like Mama’s is also offering a special Valentine’s Day price-fixed menu for $69.99 per person. Reservations are required for the special dinner.

Dessert

What Southern soul food meal would be complete without a peach cobbler to top it off? This thing is like heaven with its savory seasoned warm peaches in a caramel sauce atop a cake dumpling. It is only available occasionally. Of course, there are other dessert options that are equally as tasty like carrot cake, red velvet cake and banana puddin’.

Kids

While not specifically listed on the menu Bobby Q’s will prepare some of the commonly ordered meals for kids including pasta, sliders, chicken fingers or nuggets.

Atmosphere

The building used to be a furniture store but has been thoughtfully transformed into a sleek and appealing venue. The exposed ceiling gives Jus Like Mama’s a cool warehouse vibe. Although I visited in the winter, the patio is going to be highly sought after seating once

the temperatures start to warm up. The restaurant is handicapped accessible.

Parking

There is ample street parking surrounding the restaurant and a small, fenced-in parking lot immediately behind the restaurant off Centre Street.

Hours

Bobby Q’s Jus Like Mama’s is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). Bobby Q’s on Main Street is open Tuesday through Saturday, with an abbreviated menu.

Location

If traveling by LIRR, take the Babylon line (green) to Baldwin station. Bobby Q’s Jus Like Mama’s is located two blocks east of the train station at 365 W. Sunrise Highway in Freeport.

Reservations

Reservations are highly encouraged, especially during the winter months when seating is limited to solely indoors.

Bobby Q’s offers dine-in, catering, private parties and takeout. There is a separate menu for takeout. Delivery options are available through DoorDash and UberEats. Visit www.bbqeastofharlem.com or call 516-460-8056 for menus and more information.

Peach cobbler

Jerk chicken and pork

Pepper poppers

Photos by Christy Hinko

LI-based Research Study Confirms Libraries’ Key Role In Community Health

Mental health needs a top concern expressed by library patrons

Anew study co-authored by a team led by senior author Dr. Lisa Benz Scott, Professor and Executive Director of the Program in Public Health at Stony Brook University, was published this month in the Library and Information Science Research journal. The team reported that on Long Island, where the study was conducted, that mental health was one of the top needs identified by library personnel when asked for their perception of concerns presented by library patrons. The study was conducted by faculty and student researchers at Stony Brook University, Program in Public Health and Adelphi University, Master in Public Health Program with support from the Long Island Health Collaborative, the Suffolk Cooperative Library System and the Nassau Library System.

The Long Island study was an extension of a similar one conducted by the University of Pennsylvania among the urban Philadelphia library system. On Long Island, 97 in-person staff interviews were conducted at 32 public libraries between December 2017 and January 2020. Researchers sought to understand how

library personnel in a socioeconomically diverse suburban setting address the health and social needs of patrons and to identify strategies for promoting more effective public library-public health partnerships.

Other top needs identified were exercise, diet/nutrition, technology literacy, housing, and employment.

The research confirmed the increasing public health role public libraries play in their communities.

In lower-resourced communities, study participants noted that patrons routinely seek more basic social service needs (employment assistance, food scarcity, free screenings). In higher-resourced communities, participants found patrons sought more

A MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR INVESTMENT FOR LONG ISLAND

Sands, the world leader in developing integrated resorts, is proposing a multi-billion-dollar investment at the current site of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. This groundbreaking, world-class hospitality and entertainment project will be transformational for the Long Island economy, creating thousands of quality union jobs and generating millions of dollars in tax revenue.

A HISTORIC OPPORTUNITY FOR LONG ISLAND BUSINESSES

Sands is committed to developing long-term partnerships with local businesses. For Long Island-based manufacturers, distributors, wholesale suppliers and other companies servicing the hospitality and entertainment industries, the Sands project will be an unprecedented opportunity to grow your business and be part of what will surely become an iconic centerpiece of the Long Island landscape.

enrichment-like services (cooking classes, art programs). Prior research has found that public library visits are highest among the working poor and those who are middle income. These patrons seek services beyond access to books and are looking for assistance in what is known as the “social determinants of health.”

Social determinants are those factors outside of clinical care that influence an individual’s health. They account for nearly 80 percent of health outcomes and are now widely accepted as contributing to health inequities. These factors include education, poverty, access to transportation, safe and affordable housing, health insurance

coverage, and access to nutritious and affordable foods, among others.

“Our public libraries are trusted resources in communities,” said Janine Logan, director of the Long Island Health Collaborative.

“This is why we are seeing more health and social service programming occurring in our libraries and often the programming is a result of collaboration between the library, local hospitals, local universities, and community-based organizations. Some libraries even employ social workers either full-time or per diem.”

The researchers recommend more evidence-based training workshops to help library personnel address patrons’ needs, more widely available collaborative programs, and pairing of library personnel with professionals who hold specific expertise to promote access to and utilization of health and social services. These and other innovative solutions require the support of local governments, policy makers, healthcare systems, health sciences and medical libraries, assert the researchers.

—Submitted by Long Island Health Collaborative

Bank Of America Donates To Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank

Island Harvest Food Bank and Long Island Cares-The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank received a $50,000 donation from Bank of America to help address food insecurity on Long Island. This donation represents the second phase of the employee booster campaign launched earlier this year, which provided $75,000 to Island Harvest and Long Island Cares.

The donation is part of a unique program to encourage bank employees to receive an annual flu shot and/or coronavirus vaccine or booster, while also investing in the community.

Impact by the numbers:

• An estimated 230,000 people on Long Island face food insecurity. With help from the bank’s donation, Island Harvest and Long Island Cares will be able to provide 52,500 meals to individuals and families across Long Island.

• Since the onset of the pandemic, Bank of America has provided $575,000 to Island

Harvest and Long Island Cares to support local hunger-relief efforts.

• Bank of America has committed nearly $19 million to local hunger relief organizations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico through its two employee booster campaigns.

“The economic fallout from the coronavirus has significantly increased demand

for services from Island Harvest and Long Island Cares,” said Marc Perez, President, Bank of America Long Island. “Despite the difficulties of recent years, these organizations have remained steadfast in their work to address food insecurity. Likewise, Bank of America continues to be deeply committed to supporting hunger relief efforts on Long Island.” —Submitted by Island Harvest

Long Island Native Plant Initative Seeking Board Members

Long Island Native Plant Initiative (LINPI) is looking for new board members to help shape their direction so LINPI can continue to further their mission to protect native plant populations through the commercial production of ecotypic (genetically native) plants and seed for landscaping and restorations.

Board members work together to help keep LINPI growing through quarterly board meetings, committees, and volunteer

efforts. Help us make decisions, foster ideas, create, and execute new projects.

No plant expertise is required. Skillsets especially useful include accounting, fundraising, education and outreach, grant writing, business/non-profit management and legal, as well as native plant

propagation, restoration and management. Active board members can expect to contribute 10 hours or more per month of their time through a combination of committee, project, and volunteer work and meetings (like the quarterly board meetings).

If interested, please reach out to greg@ linpi.org.

—submitted by Long Island Native Plant Initative

Congressional Gold Medal To Be Awarded To Benjamin Ferencz, The Last Living Nuremberg Prosecutor

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (DNY), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) announced recently that their bill to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Benjamin Ferencz was included in the FY2023 omnibus funding package. Ferencz, the last living Nuremberg prosecutor, will receive the award in recognition of his work prosecuting Nazi war criminals, most notably the Einsatzgruppen, and his service in World War II. The bill previously passed the House in May and was introduced by Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL) and Joe Wilson (R-SC).

“I am honored to have secured the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to Benjamin Ferencz, a champion for human rights and the last living Nuremberg prosecutor,” said Senator Gillibrand. “As chief U.S. prosecutor during the Nuremberg trials, Mr. Ferencz held Nazi war criminals accountable for their crimes against humanity, and spent the many decades since

then fighting for human rights, justice and peace. Mr. Ferencz’s life exemplifies what it means to dedicate oneself to compassion, empathy and righteousness. Few people have been more deserving of this tremendous honor.”

“I am honored to recognize Benjamin Ferencz, the last living Nuremberg prosecutor, with the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the greatest honors an American can receive,” said Senator Schumer. “Mr. Ferencz, a Jewish immigrant who went on to serve our country in the Army, and honorably serve as a chief prosecutor for the U.S. in the Nuremberg trials, bravely held notorious Nazi war criminals to account. This award rightfully recognizes Mr. Ferencz for his fervor for justice and lifelong devotion to human rights and peace.”

“By awarding Ben Ferencz, the last living Nuremberg prosecutor, with the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress is sending an important message: that hate, bigotry, and antisemitism can never be tolerated. This message couldn’t come at

a more important time with antisemitism and Holocaust denial on the rise,” said Rep. Frankel. “Mr. Ferencz is a hero of the Jewish community who has dedicated decades of his life to combatting antisemitism, prosecuting those who act on their hatred, and keeping the lessons of the Holocaust alive. It is a privilege to recognize his remarkable lifelong commitment to justice, peace, and human dignity with the Congressional Gold Medal— Congress’s highest expression of honor.”

Ben Ferencz immigrated to the United States from Hungary when he was ten months old and his family settled in New York City. Ferencz grew up in New York City and attended The City College of New York and Harvard Law School.

After graduating from Harvard Law School, Ferencz joined an anti-aircraft artillery battalion preparing for the invasion of France. Ferencz was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1945 with the rank of Sergeant of Infantry. Soon after being discharged, he was recruited to work on the

Nuremberg trials.

Ferencz, along with roughly 50 other researchers, examined Nazi offices and archives in Berlin, finding staggering evidence of genocide by the Nazis. Ferencz, in his first-ever case and aged 27, served as Chief Prosecutor for the United States in the Einsatzgruppen Case, in which commanders of SS mobile death squads faced charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Twenty-two defendants were charged, prosecuted, and convicted of murdering over a million people. Fourteen were sentenced to death.

The Congressional Gold Medal is Congress’ highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. The first Congressional Gold Medal was given to George Washington in 1776 and has been awarded just 184 times to our nation’s heroes, activists, scientists, and other important figures in our society.

—Submitted by the office of Kirsten Gillibrand

Two Steps Forward, Two Steps Back

Santos recuses himself in Congress, vows to “focus on serving” NY-03

JANET BURNS

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

There was a lot of competition this past week vis-à-vis news items that would qualify for our “Santos Watch” series, but likely the biggest splash for Representative George Santos (NY-03) surrounds one of the main jobs of a U.S. rep: serving on committees.

Less than two weeks after he was reportedly tapped to serve on the Small Business Committee and Science, Space and Technology Committee, Santos announced that he was recusing himself from the two House committees, creating national headlines.

In a January 31 statement emailed to press (under a letterhead reading “George Santos,” as opposed to the “George DevolderSantos” header he used earlier that month), Santos said: “With the ongoing attention

surrounding both my personal and campaign financial investigations, I have submitted a request to Speaker McCarthy that I be temporarily recused from my committee assignments until I am cleared.”

“This was a decision that I take very seriously. The business of the 118th Congress must continue without media fanfare. It is important that I primarily focus on serving the constituents of New York’s Third Congressional District and providing federal level representation without distraction.”

The same day, Reps. Nick LaLota (NY-01) and Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04) released the following joint statement:

“This is a classic case of

someone quitting right before they were going to get fired. While we, and the overwhelming percentage of Long Islanders we represent, are relieved to see that Santos will not be undeservedly sitting on committees, he should still do the right thing and resign. That is what is in the best interest of his constituents and House Republicans.”

Other Recent Highlights:

• The Federal Election Commission (FEC), already pointed in Santos’ direction by numerous parties, has been making inquiries about the source of Santos’ campaign and/ or personal funds, as well as the fact that the man he listed as his treasurer on paperwork denies holding that job.

• According to the Washington Post, the U.S. Attorney General has asked the FEC to step aside for the sake of its own investigation(s).

• On January 31, the FEC made public the resignation letter it received from Santos’ previous

COLUMNS

treasurer, longtime GOP operator Nancy Marks.

• Ritchie Torres (NY-15), among others, has called for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to investigate Santos’ muddied, perhaps even swampy financial situation.

• On February 1, members of more than half a dozen local activists groups protested outside Santos’ district office calling for his resignation. “You will not get away with this Mr. Santos,” said William Bailey, senior director at New York Communities for Change, as WABC reported.

• Nassau County Republicans continue to distance themselves publicly from Santos. An article by Joe Anuta for the website Politico reported that local GOP are hoping that relative-newcomer District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly will go the distance re: legal repercussions. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman commented at a January press conference, as noted in Politico: “He needs help ... This is not a normal person.”

Temporary LIRR Shuttle Service To Grand Central Madison Is Putting Lipstick On A Pig

The original Federal Transit Administration Capital Investment New Starts Full Funding Grant Agreement to MTA was approved in 2006. It included a project cost of $6.3 billion, federal share capped at $2.6 billion with the start of passenger service including a promise to run 24 hourly trains rush hour (most of which were supposed to provide a one seat ride) in 2011. The temporary shuttle service is a temporary band aid fix coming nowhere close to meeting this commitment.

Shuttle operations between 6:15 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends comes nowhere close to existing LIRR frequency and service hours in and out of Penn Station.

With shuttle trains operating only every 30 minutes during rush hour, imagine the potential overcrowding on shuttle trains between Jamaica and GCM. There is no local service for Kew Gardens and

PENNER STATION

Forest Hills riders during rush hour.

Riders on the Port Washington branch will have to transfer at Woodside for access to the shuttle train rush hour and off peak.

The project cost has grown to $11.6 billion today. This does not include debt service payments of $1 billion for borrowing costs buried under the MTA operating budget. There are also $4

billion worth of LIRR readiness projects to support the start of service They take place east of the Woodside Harold Interlockings and are carried off line from the official project budget. Without these projects, the LIRR lacks the expanded operational capabilities to support both promised 24 rush hour train service to GCM along with a 40% increase in reverse peak rush hour service.

Penn Station is a 24/7 facility with overnight service to and from between 1 AM and 5 AM. Grand Central Terminal is closed overnight from 2 AM to 5:15 AM. Unlike the LIRR, Metro North provides no service in or out during that time period. Why does MTA hold the LIRR and Metro North to different standards when it comes to utilizing these two facilities? Ms. Catherine Renaldi is the first MTA official to serve as President of both Long Island and Metro North Rail Roads. The LIRR

Karl V. Anton, Jr., Publisher, Anton Community Newspapers, 1984-2000

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should provide equal levels of 24/7 service to both Penn Station and GCM customers.

When it comes to East Side Access, the LIRR 1960’s motto “Line of the Dashing Dan” should be changed to “Line of the Slow Moving Sloth.”

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a former Director for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management. This included the development, review, approval and oversight for billions in capital projects and programs for NJ Transit, New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NYC Transit bus, subway and Staten Island Railway, Long Island and Metro North Rail Roads, MTA Bus, NYCDOT Staten Island Ferry along with 30 other transit agencies in NY & NJ.

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Larry Penner

Rep. George Santos’ Twitter profile image.

Batten down the hatches. Nassau County is running out of phone number combinations that begin with the area code 516.

Since the 1950s, Nassau and Suffolk County businesses and residences were assigned a phone number with the area code 516. In 1999, you would have thought the world was ending when it was announced that Suffolk County numbers would be switched to 631. But the sun came up the next day, and thus the great “Area Code Rivalry” was born, with Nassau County residents celebrating and taunting the obviously second-class “631-ers.” As an added insult, Suffolk got a second area code, 934, in 2016.

Honestly, I’m not sure the area code means much anymore.

It used to be that you could recognize an incoming call just based on the area code, but the fear of Y2K changed all that in 1999. Manhattan’s exclusivity of

Move Over 516 and Make Way for 363

exchange (the first three digits after the area code) also identified their location. Exchanges 798, 799, and 541 were permanently assigned to Massapequa and Massapequa Park.

LONG ISLAND LIVING

212 and the outer borough’s 718 soon required a scorecard, as 347, 332, 917, and 929 have since been added. Why bother with an area code if it doesn’t correctly identify the geographic area?

Most people who still have landlines (that’s the strange-looking device connected to the kitchen wall with a curly wire that once was used for talking and listening) know that in addition to the area code, their

Of course, the increase in cell phone usage has made area codes and number exchanges moot. A cell phone can be used anywhere a wireless signal is available around the globe. Phone numbers are no longer unique. They might seem like randomly assigned numbers (my seven digits do), but in reality, they are not.

The North American Numbering Plan Administrator sees to that. What qualifies a person to be the NANPA remains to be seen, but someone has to make sure numbers assigned across the country, including area codes, are distinct. Of course, most people have been adding a “1” to the beginning of all the numbers they

dial (adding a 10th digit to the process) for the last few months, but now it is required in Nassau County as 363 comes into play.

I stopped paying attention to area codes some time ago, mainly when spammers use your local area code and exchanges, so you think it’s a call from your friend. That may work on the elderly, who are the only ones who know what those numbers really mean. Nobody born after 2000 would know what you were talking about if you asked them for their “area code.”

In my childhood, remembering phone numbers and your address was vital to your survival. I still know the parent’s numbers for my friends Bruce and George. My mother has had the same number since we moved to Massapequa in 1967. If I lost my cell phone today and could not retrieve my address book, I could only call my mother and either Bruce’s or

George’s mother. Unfortunately, both of their mothers are long gone.

It looks like 363 will be a nothing burger in Nassau County, especially for residential phones. Most people I know are ditching their landlines and relying only on their cell phones. I can’t remember the last time I actually answered my landline when the person on the other end wasn’t a robot or a recorded message. But I like my landline number. We’ve had it since buying our house in 1987. It’s part of our identity. Even my 90-year-old mother now calls me on the cell phone instead of what used to be called the “house” phone.

When we eventually move out of state (like the rest of the population our age), we’ll take our cell phone numbers with us, and it will officially be the end of our landline number.

Until then, this is 516-799-xxxx, saying good night, America!

Headline: Teach Your Teens The Dangers Of Driving Impaired

Getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage that teenagers have been celebrating since the early days of automobiles. Driving makes teens feel more independent than ever before, and it can also provide a break for parents, who spend a great deal of their time carting their kids back and forth from practices and other activities.

But the celebration of this newfound freedom necessitates a crucial conversation and the drawing of a line in the sand: Let them know that driving while using alcohol, marijuana or any other substances is forbidden, and start having these conversations when they are young.

With marijuana use now legal for people 21 years of age and older, your kids may be of the mindset that it’s not a big deal. That’s far from the truth. It’s illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol and weed or other drugs. According to the NY State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, driving under the influence of marijuana subjects you to the same penalties as driving under the influence of alcohol.

And there’s good reason: Marijuana impacts areas of the brain that control perception, balance, coordination, memory

PARENTING PLUS

Dr. Nellie Taylor-Walthrust

and judgment. It can slow reaction times, decrease attention and make it difficult to follow the road and stay in your lane.

We know you don’t want your kids to use marijuana or alcohol, period. But the reality is that many of them do. Having the conversation about safety and driving will not make them any more likely to experiment – in fact, it might have the opposite effect.

Here are some sobering statistics:

• 23% of teens admit they have driven under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs or marijuana.

• Teen drivers 16-19 have a fatal crash rate almost three times as high as drivers ages 20 and older.

• The percent of crash deaths involving cannabis more than doubled from 9% in 2000 to 21.5% in 2018.

• 24% of teens reported that within the previous month, they had been a passenger in a car with a driver who had been drinking alcohol or using drugs. As a parent, what can you do to minimize the risks?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests creating a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement that clearly sets expectations and limits. Sit with your teen and write down the hazards of driving while impaired and the consequences

for breaking the rules. Put it on your refrigerator and update it as your teen gains experience and more driving privileges. (Visit cdc. gov for a sample agreement.)

If your teen plans to go to a party, make sure you talk to the parents where the festivities are being held. Ask if there will be supervision and if alcohol is being served—and if your teens are under 21, the answer should be a resounding no.

Despite taking all precautions, your teens may find themselves in a situation where they are being pressured to drink or use drugs. Tell them that you will be willing and able to get them at any time during the night—and that if they or their friends have

been drinking or using drugs, they should contact you for a ride.

As parents, we must do all we can to educate our kids about the dangers of driving while impaired, but we also need to face the reality that even “good” kids can start heading down a dangerous path. Keep the lines of communication open, and if you suspect there may be a problem, consider contacting a professional who is trained in alcohol and substance use.

Bottom line: Let your teen know that driving requires their full attention, so marijuana, alcohol or any kind of substances are not allowed – and that means no texting, too!

Dr. Nellie Taylor-Walthrust is the Director of at North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center’s Leeds Place, which operates an Adolescent Outpatient Chemical Dependency Treatment Program. Substance use services include counseling youths who are alcohol and drug abusers, children who live in families with a parent who is suffering from alcoholism or drug addiction and youths who have co-occurring chemical dependency and mental health problems. Prevention services are offered to local school districts. Call (516) 626-1971 to learn more.

& LIFESTYLE Spark Of Creativity

Expressing life with epilepsy through art

JENNIFER CORR

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, epilepsy is defined as a brain condition that causes reoccurring, unprovoked seizures. It’s a condition that is often misunderstood in media and falls under the radar, even though it’s the fourth most common neurological condition in the world.

On Jan. 20, the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra University in Hempstead hosted the art gallery, “Spark of Creativity,” to showcase artwork, spoken word and written word from artists with epilepsy or loved ones of a person with epilepsy. It was a night of starting conversations and building bridges of understanding for the many experiences people have with epilepsy.

The show was organized by two doctor candidates at the Zucker School of Medicine, Patrick Tierney and Justin Esposito.

“It started with Patrick and I being interested in neurology as a special interest for us,” Esposito said. “We wanted a unique event that would explore unique experiences from people with neurological conditions. After speaking with [Dr. Simona] Proteasa, we settled on epilepsy as the best example of that, as a neurological illness where people can have pretty much any symptom. The seizure can take so many different forms. It’s an individual experience and also something that’s widely misunderstood too.”

seizure, and the IV drip being the first thing you see.

“In the project I have black and white photographs signifying seizures and the life with epilepsy,” Hopper said.

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com her

The photos, shot on 35 mm film, were part of a project called Seize, a project that includes a mix of black and white and color photos to depict that while living with epilepsy can be gloomy, there are also plenty of moments with happiness and joy.

In general, Hopper has found photography as a way to heal and get a break from the many struggles epilepsy brings to his life. He’s also worked with epilepsy patients afraid of flash photography, providing them with flash-free, professional family photographs.

Also among the artists featured in the gallery was an author, Marc Palmieri, who wrote the book She Danced with Lightning, and his daughter Nora Palmieri, who created art inspired by her sister Anna Palmieri’s experience with epilepsy.

“She was diagnosed at five-months-old, she got brain surgery in 2018,” Marc Palmieri said of his daughter, Anna Palmieri. “She had thousands of seizures before the surgery, but she is now seizure free. I wrote the book, it’s a memoir, about living with a child with this kind of deadly condition. But it’s also about what she taught me; courage and desire to live a full life even when facing what was a very dangerous and dire spiral of her condition when she was 12-years-old.”

A cover of the book, as well as Nora Palmieri’s artwork, was presented at the gallery.

Daniel Hopper, who has had epilepsy for 18 years, was among the artists featured in the show. His project, Journey with Epilepsy & Photography, included three photos and a bucket full of empty prescription pill bottles. The first photo in the series showed a blurry IV drip. Hopper said it was meant to convey what it’s like waking up from a

Poet and artist Alyssa D’Amico had her artwork showcased. She had the chance to read several poems she’s written recounting her experience with epilepsy, from childhood, to teenage-hood and adulthood. She discussed friendships, crushes, and the confusion she grew up feeling with epilepsy. Her poetry reminded the audience that even when facing such a frightening condition, people with epilepsy still go through the everyday experiences.

Daniel Hopper’s project, My Journey with Epilepsy & Photography.

(Photography by Daniel Hopper, picture taken by Jennifer Corr)

Casino

HOMES

Recently Sold

This hi-ranch in the heart of the Massapequa School District at 73 Locust St. sold on Jan. 27 for $529,999. Its zoning does not require flood insurance. The rooms are spacious and the home has hardwood floors (under carpeting on the main floor). This home is ready for some refreshing and TLC. It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The huge lower level provides access outside to enjoy entertaining and gardening in the fully fenced property. The yard has a five-zone in-ground sprinkler system. There is also a private driveway and a one-car attached garage. This home is located with convenience to shopping, schools, transportation and the serenity of Tackapausha Park.

HOME & DESIGN Winter Is Here Finally

Stay warm while saving money

Winter is finally here, and PSEG Long Island wants to help customers stay safe and warm and save money and energy. As the mercury starts to drop, the utility offers simple, energy-saving tips:

• Lower your thermostat by just one degree to potentially reduce your heating bill. Lowering it two degrees during the day and five to 10 degrees at night will save even more.

• Use a programmable thermostat to manage your home’s heating and cooling needs. Energy Star estimates that properly used programmable thermostats can save the average American household about $180 a year. PSEG offers rebates on smart thermostats.

and LEDs use up to 90 percent less energy and last up to 25 times longer.

• Install timers and motion detectors to automatically manage indoor and outdoor lighting and help ensure lights are not on when they’re not needed.

• Seal windows and doorframes with weather stripping or caulk, and remove or cover window air conditioners to help to prevent drafts.

• Ceiling fans can be used to save energy in winter. Setting a fan to rotate clockwise on low pulls cool air toward the ceiling, pushing warm air down into a room.

This fantastic and spacious Colonial home at 156 Grand Blvd. in Massapequa Park sold on Jan. 31 for $849,000. It has a beautifully remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a center island with an under-counter microwave, side server, beverage bar and sliding doors to the backyard. This home has a formal dining room, a living room with gorgeous hardwood floors and a powder room. The lovely first floor master bedroom suite has deep closets and a generous full bathroom. The additional four bedrooms are nice-sized, one even has cathedral ceilings. The home has three bathrooms, a massive attic, central air conditioning, a central vacuum system and 200-amp service. The basement is huge and has an outside entrance. The detached two-car garage has a walk-up loft.

• Install a high-efficiency air source heat pump (ASHP) to lower energy usage, save money and provide greater comfort in cold and hot months. Rebates are available from PSEG’s Home Comfort Program for ducted ASHP units, ducted geothermal heat pumps and ductless mini split systems. PSEG’s Home Comfort PLUS program offers enhanced rebates for customers who meet certain income qualifications.

• Replace inefficient incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs since, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting accounts for about 15 percent of the electricity used in the home,

• Reduce “phantom power” by using energy efficient power strips or unplugging electronic devices when they’re not in use. Items plugged into outlets use electricity even when they’re turned off.

• Close fireplace dampers when not in use. Stop warm air from escaping through chimneys.

• Move furniture and drapes away from heat sources. Remove furniture or items that block vents. Open any register or baseboard dampers.

• Open your curtains and blinds that face the sun on sunny days to warm your home, and close them at night to keep the warm air inside.

Visit www.psegliny.com/ savemoney for more tips.

—PSEG Long Island

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.

REPLACE. RENEW. RESTORE.

Sleep plays a vital role in the body’s cycle of healing, growing and rejuvenating. The DUX® Bed’s unique, customizable component system provides unrivaled ergonomic support to help you experience significantly higher quality sleep.

Sleep plays a vital role in the body’s cycle of healing, growing and rejuvenating. The DUX® Bed’s unique, customizable component system provides unrivaled ergonomic support to help you experience significantly higher quality sleep.

Resolve to invest in your health. Visit a DUXIANA® store near you to discover the difference The DUX Bed can make in your

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Heartbroken Nature Lovers Find Themselves In Battle After County Clear-Cuts Popular Park Woodlands

Desiree Benn was horrified watching the nature park get chopped down. She quickly called the state authorities who stopped the cutting, but by then, over an acre had been wiped out, including over 100 trees. “It was a massacre”, said Ms. Benn. After asking questions and attending meetings, she quickly found out her input was not welcomed by decision makers. So, she founded Coindre Hall Park Community, in her quest to protect the sensitive waterfront area as a public nature preserve.

In the scenic harbor town of Huntington, New York, yacht clubs, private property, and members-only beach clubs dominate the shoreline. The last sliver of public access to the waterfront and undeveloped woodlands is

historic Coindre Hall Park. The advisory board overseeing huge changes to the park is laden with town insiders and the yacht-club-crowd, who are determined to bulldoze anything in the way of a taxpayer funded, mega-restoration project. With neither an authorized plan, nor anyone on the board having essential environmental credentials, they’ve already begun major work.

Overdevelopment and commercialization of our shorelines are issues many communities are dealing with, and we need help...Please help save our nature park, and we’ll be there when your park is next.

community, whose views differ from non-boat owners. Many park users want to know the benefit of constructing a pier and bringing boats into this pristine area.

The board is largely made up of members of the boating

Many question the wisdom of spending millions of tax-payer dollars to restore a condemned boathouse in a flood zone. Many are vehemently opposed to a road and parking spaces in the lower park area. Rather than engage in meaningful dialogue, the board refuses to acknowledge key questions,

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Dear Mr. Goldstein:

and just pushes through an agenda in the face of mounting objections from the public. Hundreds have joined the grassroots group through Facebook and Nextdoor; thousands have signed petitions. Group members have been speaking up at board meetings and legislative sessions. It still may not be enough to move the needle against such an entrenched political machine. “Overdevelopment and commercialization of our shorelines are issues many communities are dealing with, and we need help”, Ms. Benn explains. “Calling all nature lovers! Please help save our nature park, and we’ll be there when your park is next”.

—Submitted by Coindre Hall Park Community

PROPOSED LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP. RESORT IN UNIONDALE

To: Robert G. Goldstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Las Vegas Sands Corp.

I write regarding Las Vegas Sands Corp.’s proposal to develop a resort at the current site of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, N.Y.

As the elected representative of the Coliseum site and a fiduciary entrusted with protecting the overall best interests of Nassau taxpayers, I am always willing to take a closer look at opportunities to create jobs, expand our tax base and establish new revenue streams to aid in the delivery of essential County services.

To ensure that the intended outcomes of your proposal are aligned with the fulfillment of those responsibilities and desires, it is essential for a decision-maker like myself to have access to the most comprehensive information possible so that I can reach a well-informed decision. A thorough analysis of the economic development and job creation outcomes in host communities for previous Sands-developed resorts will be central to my review.

For the purposes of completing that analysis, I respectfully request for Sands to provide my office with data specifically outlining the number and nature

of employment opportunities that were created in similarly positioned host communities; the salaries and benefits associated with each; professional development and advancement opportunities that were offered to recruits; the average duration of employment in each of these specific job titles; and the number of union employment opportunities that were created through these endeavors. Please also identify local hiring plans that were implemented; the extent to which these goals were achieved; and steps that were taken by your organization to achieve those targets.

Specific to the casino element of the proposed resort in Uniondale, N.Y., please furnish an enumeration of the job opportunities that will be created in the related service industries, including but not limited to the casino itself and associated restaurants, spas, entertainment venues, retail establishments and experiential destinations. As part of your response, please provide a detailed list of job titles, descriptions and projected salaries and benefits that are envisioned. Moreover, I am interested to learn more about the recruitment and training opportunities you are planning

to offer and your strategies for maximizing the creation of union employment opportunities through this endeavor.

Please also advise my office of how you plan to incorporate minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBE), disadvantaged business

enterprises (DBE); and entities spearheaded by veterans, disabled individuals and service-disabled veterans into the operations of your proposed resort. Please furthermore advise of previous scenarios in which a host community established baseline hiring requirements for such entities; the percentage that was achieved by Las Vegas Sands, Corp.; and the strategies you used to achieve these outcomes.

In the interest of mitigating concerns about potential negative economic impacts, please provide all data, analysis and studies conducted by Las Vegas Sands Corp. related to your experiences with existing small businesses in previous host communities and strategies that were utilized to address any concerns that were identified.

In the coming weeks, I will be in touch with additional questions. In the meantime, I look forward to your response and the opportunity to further review the merits of your proposal.

Sincerely,

Siela A. Bynoe Nassau County Legislature, Second Legislative District

Legislator Siela A. Bynoe. (Via Facebook)

—Desiree Benn, Coindre Hall Park Community

A HEART AS EXCEPTIONAL AS YOURS DESERVES THE NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CARE AT ST. FRANCIS HEART CENTER

AND NOW, IT'S CLOSER THAN EVER

Our unmatched care is now available in more locations, so your heart is always in the right place.

St. Francis Heart Center is now available at more Catholic Health practices and hospitals across Long Island, including Good Samaritan University Hospital, Mercy Hospital, St. Catherine of Siena Hospital and St. Joseph Hospital. This means you have easier access to the most advanced treatments for cardiac diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, no matter where you live on the island.

For a location near you, visit chsli.org/heart

Drinking Tea, Coffee Lowers Risk Of Death

Drinking two or more cups of coffee a day may double the risk of death from cardiovascular disease among people with severe high blood pressure (160/100 mm Hg or higher) but not people with high blood pressure not considered severe, according to research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, an open access, peer-reviewed journal of the American Heart Association.

The study found that one cup of coffee and daily green tea consumption did not increase the risk of death related to cardiovascular disease at any blood pressure measurement, though both drinks contain caffeine. According to the FDA, an eightounce cup of green or black tea has 30 to 50 milligrams of caffeine, and an eightounce cup of coffee has closer to 80 to 100 milligrams.

Previous research found that drinking one cup of coffee a day may help heart attack survivors by lowering their risk of death after a heart attack and may prevent heart attacks or strokes in healthy individuals. Separate studies have suggested drinking coffee regularly may reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses, such as Type 2 diabetes and some cancers; may help to control appetite; may help to lower the risk of depression or

boost alertness, though it is not clear if this effect is from the caffeine or something else in coffee. On the harmful side, too much coffee may raise blood pressure and lead to anxiety, heart palpitations and difficulty sleeping.

“Our study aimed to determine whether the known protective effect of coffee also applies to individuals with different degrees of hypertension; and also examined the effects of green tea in the same population,” explained the study’s senior author Hiroyasu Iso, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., director of the Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine in Tokyo, and professor emeritus at Osaka University. “To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to find an association between drinking 2 or more cups of coffee daily and cardiovascular disease mortality among people with severe hypertension.”

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of blood vessels is consistently too high, making the heart work harder to pump blood. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). The current blood pressure guidelines from the American Heart Association and

classifies hypertension as a blood

pressure reading of 130/80

mm Hg or higher.

”These findings may support the assertion that people with severe high blood pressure should avoid drinking excessive coffee,” said Iso. “Because people with severe hypertension are more susceptible to the effects of caffeine, caffeine’s harmful effects may outweigh its protective effects and may increase the risk of death.”

RECIPE

The study found that people with more frequent coffee consumption were more likely to be younger, current smokers, current drinkers, eat fewer vegetables, and have higher total cholesterol levels and lower systolic blood pressure (top number) regardless of the blood pressure category.

The benefits of green tea may be explained by the presence of polyphenols, which are micronutrients with healthy antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties found in plants. The researchers noted that polyphenols may be part of the reason only coffee consumption was associated with an increased risk of death in people with severe high blood pressure despite both green tea and coffee containing caffeine.

The research has several limitations: coffee and tea consumption were self-reported; blood pressure was measured at a single point, which did not account for changes over time; and the observational nature of the study could not draw a direct cause-and-effect connection between coffee consumption and cardiovascular disease risk among people with severe high blood pressure.

Further study is needed, researchers said, to learn more about the effects of coffee and green tea consumption in people with high blood pressure and to confirm the effects of coffee and green tea consumption in other countries.

—American Heart Association

Heart Healthy: Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of chicken noodle soup always equals comfort. The vegetables add nutrition and an aromatic flavor. This soup can be prepared at a moment’s notice and turns mealtime into a warm and satisfying experience.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil

3 medium carrots (thinly sliced)

2 medium ribs of celery, leaves discarded, thinly sliced

1 small onion (diced)

4 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, all visible fat discarded, cut into bite-size pieces.

3 cups water

3 tablespoons fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley, minced.

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (crumbled)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper ((coarsely ground preferred))

6 ounces dried no-yolk noodles

Directions

Heat the oil in the pressure cooker on sauté. Cook the carrots, celery, and onion for three minutes, or until the carrots and celery are tender and the onion is soft, stirring frequently. Stir in the broth, chicken, water, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure. Remove the pressure cooker lid. Set the pressure cooker to sauté. Heat until the soup comes to a simmer. Stir in the noodles. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender, stirring frequently. Serves six, two-cups serving size.

—American Heart Association

American Heart Association

Tips To Help You Detect Skin Cancer Early

You may be thinking of ways to take better care of yourself in the new year. The Skin Cancer Foundation suggests making a commitment to get to know your skin better—learning about the warning signs of skin cancer and what to do if you see something suspicious could save your life.

“Skin cancer is the world’s most common cancer, but it is often overlooked or dismissed,” said Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “It is one of the most curable forms of cancer if diagnosed and treated early. But if allowed to grow, certain types of skin cancer can become disfiguring and even deadly.”

Increase your chances of spotting a skin cancer before it becomes dangerous:

1Learn the warning signs of skin cancer.

A good rule of thumb is to look out for anything new, changing or unusual on your skin. This could be a mole or birthmark that increases in size, thickness, changes color or texture or is bigger than a pencil eraser. A skin cancer can also appear as a growth that increases in size and appears pearly, transparent, tan, brown, black or multicolored. Other warning signs include a spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab or bleed, especially if it does not heal within three weeks.

2Perform a monthly self-exam. By dedicating some time every few weeks to take a thorough look at your skin, you’re giving yourself the best chance of noticing anything suspicious early on. Try picking one date to perform your self-exam every month or setting up a reminder on your phone to ensure you stay on track. Taking photos of any spots that are new or changing can help you keep track of potential problems.

3Schedule a professional exam. See a dermatologist for a professional skin exam at least once a year. Dermatologists are specially trained to recognize the signs

of skin cancer and can look at any spots you may have noted in your self-exams. If you have a higher risk of developing skin cancer (you have a history of melanoma, for example), your dermatologist may suggest more frequent examinations.

“Remember, skin cancer is the cancer you can see,” Sarnoff said. “Unlike cancers that develop inside the body, skin cancers form on the outside and are usually visible. If you see anything suspicious on your skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist right away.”

—The Skin Cancer Foundation

Damien S. Treated for colon cancer

Live Music Brought To Stony Brook Cancer Center

Music at the MART, kindly funded by Michael Ardolino/Realty Connect USA, is presented by the Staller Center’s Educational Outreach Program in partnership with the Stony Brook University Department of Music and the Stony Brook Cancer Center. The collaboration between the various departments at Stony Brook is a combined effort to provide patients with cancer a relaxing environment while offering the therapeutic benefits of live music. The Cancer Center’s outpatient services are on levels 5 and 6 in the Medical and Research Translation (MART) building, where these outstanding musicians provide music for patients before they go to an appointment or receive infusion therapy every Wednesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The Staller Center’s Educational Outreach Program collaborates with Stony Brook University’s Music Department by hiring these skilled musicians to perform at interactive workshops for kids aged three to eight called the Instrument Petting Zoo (IPZ) in libraries, nonprofits, and other venues. The IPZ concept is modified with music at the MART for adults.

“The Stony Brook Music Department is thrilled to begin this collaboration between its music students and the Cancer Center,” said violinist Stephanie Bonk. “’Music at the Mart’ allows music students to perform in the Stony Brook community, and the chance to connect with patients, and hopefully offer a little comfort during these times.”

Christina Faber, director of cancer center support services at the Stony Brook Cancer Center and Paul Newland, director educational programming from the Staller Center made a connection after the opening night French film, Peaceful at the 2022 Stony Brook Film Festival. They discussed a shared vision and how they might incorporate music into the Cancer Center.

Michael Ardolino, a community leader in the Three Village area who supports several campus initiatives, was interested in this idea and offered to help launch it.

“The Music at the MART program is an amazing way to support the arts while impacting the lives of patients receiving care and, maybe, even bring a smile to the faces of the Stony Brook Cancer Center staff. I’m thrilled to support the pilot program and to help get it started,” said Ardolino.

—Staller Center for the Arts

Gladys Ayala Becomes NYU School Dean

Gladys M. Ayala, MD, who has served as vice dean and professor of medicine at NYU Long Island School of Medicine, has become the school’s new dean and chief academic officer.

“At NYU Long Island School of Medicine, we have a unique opportunity to train the next generation of primary care physicians with excellence in clinical skills, along with the skills to address healthcare disparities; and we do it in three years,” Ayala said. “In this exciting new chapter, I will continue to work collaboratively with the faculty and educational leaders to advance medical education through innovation that will shape the physicians of tomorrow and enhance the care delivered to patients.”

diverse workforce, deepening community engagement to promote health equity, and expanding population health and health systems research on campus.

Gladys M. Ayala, MD

Ayala’s career in medical education spans more than 25 years, and she has initiated numerous programs for medical students to enhance their medical school experience. She has taught medical students in New York State about the principles of primary care, history, and clinical skills since 1994 and is passionate about the impact that primary care doctors who are trained in cultural competency can have on the health and wellness of communities denied health equity.

Ayala’s appointment follows the retirement of the school’s founding dean, Steven P. Shelov, MD. She has led MD curriculum development and implementation and oversaw the areas of MD admissions and the Office of Students and Diversity at NYU Long Island School of Medicine since 2018. As vice dean, she also led the school’s latest strategic planning process that will focus on four main goals: advancing medical education, developing a

Before coming to NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Ayala was the vice chancellor for university student affairs and interim vice dean at New York Medical College’s School of Medicine in Valhalla, New York. A native New Yorker, she received her doctorate in medicine from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in 1986 and her master’s in public health from Columbia University in 2007.

Ayala lives in Westbury.

—NYU Long Island School of Medicine

Michael Ardolino, Christina Faber, Maria Aubry and Paul Newland

Stuart Rabinowitz Elected To Alzheimer’s Foundation Board

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) announced the appointment of Stuart Rabinowitz, Esq. to its board of directors. Rabinowitz, the former longtime President of Hofstra University and a Woodbury resident, brings an extensive background in education, business, and law to his new role.

“Stuart Rabinowitz is an innovative, passionate leader with extensive experience and a strong desire to help others,” said Bert E. Brodsky, AFA’s founder and board chairman. “We are proud to welcome him to our team and look forward to working with him to further enhance AFA’s programs, services, and reach to better serve the more than six million American families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.”

Rabinowitz is senior counsel to Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP in Mineola. Prior to that, he spent nearly 50 years working in educational and leadership roles at Hofstra University, starting as a law professor at Hofstra Law School in 1972 and rising to dean of the law school in 1989. In 2001, he became the eighth president of the university.

“I am honored to be elected to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Board of Directors and look forward to furthering the mission of improving patient care, providing valuable patient family resources, and fostering public awareness,” Rabinowitz said.

As president, Rabinowitz led Hofstra to significantly expand its offerings and create several new schools, including the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, the Hofstra-Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies, the Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Peter S. Kalikow School of Government, Public Policy and International Affairs and the School of Health Professions and Human Services. He also founded the National Center for Suburban Studies, the Center for Entrepreneurship and the Cybersecurity Innovation and Research Center. In addition, he brought Hofstra to the national stage as host of three different presidential debates (2008, 2012, and 2016 presidential elections), the only university

ever to do so.

Prior to his work at Hofstra, Rabinowitz worked at Rosenman & Colin LLP for a number of years and as an associate law professor at his alma mater, Columbia Law School.

Additionally, Rabinowitz served in numerous other leadership positions, including as a Long Island Association board member and co-vice chair of the Long

Island Regional Economic Development Council. He is currently a member of the New York State Commission of Continuing Legal Education.

He has received many awards for his service, among them the Martin Luther King Living the Dream Award, EOC; Distinguished Service in the Cause of Justice, Legal Aid Society; UJA Federation Leadership Award; the Bar Association of Nassau County Proclamation for Outstanding Service to the legal profession and the community; and the Conference of Jewish Organizations of Nassau County’s Community Service Award.

AFA is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide, and fund research for better treatment and a cure. Individuals who have questions about Alzheimer’s disease or need support services can contact AFA at 866-232-8484 or through its website, www.alzfdn.org.

—Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

Stuart Rabinowitz

What’s our greatest asset at The Bristal Assisted Living communities? It’s the lifetime of interests and experiences you bring to it. After all, that’s what makes you special. A caring team that spends the time getting to know you so you can continue nurturing, sharing and exploring those interests? Well, that’s what makes us special, too.

See for yourself. Explore all of our locations in the tri-state area. thebristal.com

Girl Scout Cookie Season Continues With Cookie Booth Sales Throughout Nassau County

Girl Scouts of Nassau County announced today that Girl Scout Cookies® will be available at individual Girl Scout Cookie booths throughout Nassau County starting January 28, 2023. Each booth will be creatively designed, built and decorated by Girl Scouts and acts as pop-up Girl Scout Cookie stores in prominent locations to help Girl Scouts hone their entrepreneurial skills. To find a cookie booth that is closest to you, visit www.girlscoutcookies. org. Booth sales will continue until March 8, 2023.

“Our Girl Scouts are excited to use their creativity and people skills to connect with customers at cookie sales booths they set up and run themselves. Running a booth sale gives our cookie entrepreneurs the experience and practice of running a small business—setting goals, making decisions, managing money, solving problems, and engaging with their customers,” said Randell Bynum, the chief

executive officer of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County. “Every time a cookie-loving customer purchases Girl Scout Cookies, they are supporting Girl Scouts who make the world a better place, one box of cookies at a time.”

The Girl Scout Cookie Program® returned in communities throughout Nassau County on December 14, 2022. In addition to making the delicious and iconic Girl Scout Cookies available to all, the 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. With the return of the Girl Scout Cookie 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 which are then 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.

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 February 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 Digital Cookie, or from one of the many

Girl Scout Cookie booth sales happening now around Nassau County. To find Girl Scouts selling cookies near you, visit www.girlscoutcookies.org.

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to lifeand work together tobuild a better world.Through programs in Nassau County, across Long Island and from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities canbe unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up theirbootsfor a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alumni, Girl Scouts leads the way as they find their voices and make changes that affectthe issues most important to them.

—Submitted by Girl Scouts of Nassau County

A Prophetic Voice: Buchanan Lays Down His Pen

JOSEPH SCOTCHIE

jscotchie@antonmediagroup.com

There are plenty of mossbacks out there who miss the age of print. Who can forget The New York Daily News of the 1970s or The New York Post of the 1980s and ‘90s?

For The Daily News, Dick Young was the voice of the paper. It didn’t matter that he wrote a sports column. The contentious Young, a native of Washington Heights, set the tone for the entire paper, then the voice of the long vanquished outer borough ethnics: Irish, Italians, Orthodox Jews, Greeks and Poles, an angry electorate who provided the shock troops that delivered

for Richard Nixon, James Buckley, Ronald Reagan, Alfonse D’Amato, Rudy Giuliani, and George Pataki back when New York was still a two-party state.

During the Seventies, a young Pat Buchanan’s syndicated column was carried by The Daily News. Later, it moved to a more hospitable home at Rupert Murdoch’s New York Post. Now the man, at age 84, has retired his long-running column.

After Buchanan’s failed 2000 presidential run, The Post, as I recall, no longer carried his column. What a run he had. During those decades, no pundit could make a newspaper jump like Patrick J. Buchanan. He dominated The Post the same way that Young held sway over The Daily News Buchanan’s work was--and is---both learned and provocative, itself a difficult standard to achieve and maintain. Buchanan’s style was short and to the point, words written as hard as the one-two combination punches

LEGAL NOTICES

Keyspan Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid

PURPOSE: THE FILING OF NEW TARIFF AMMENDMENTS TO P.S.C. NO. 1 GAS TO COMPLY WITH THE COMMISSION’S ORDERS DATED JANUARY 19, 2023, IN P.S.C. CASES 4-M-0565 AND 20-M-0266.

TEXT: Notice is hereby given that Keyspan Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid has led new tari amendments with the Public Service Commission to comply with the Commission’s Order is dated January 19, 2023, to become e ective February 1, 2023.

Keyspan Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid (“KEDLI”) led tari revisions in response to a New York State Public Service Commission (“PSC”) Order Authorizing Phase 2 Arrears Reduction Program. Phase 2 of the Arrears Reduction Program provides automatic relief through direct bill credits to residential non-Energy A ordability Program (“EAP”) and small-commercial customers who have eligible arrears and who did not receive relief under the Phase 1 program, by issuing a one-time bill credit to reduce or eliminate accrued arrears through May 1, 2022. The PSC Order also establishes the Arrears Management Program (“AMP”) Phase 2 Surcharge to recover costs of these bill credits e ective February 1, 2023.

Notice is hereby given that starting on February 1, 2023, the AMP Phase 2 Surcharge will commence on customer bills and will be included in the Delivery Revenue Adjustment line. The AMP surcharge is located on the KEDLI website. For Residential customers: https://www.nationalgridus.com/Long-Island-NY-Home/Bills-Meters-and-Rates/ ?regionkey=nylongisland&customertype=home and Business customers https://www.nationalgridus.com/Long-Island-NY-Business/Bills-Meters-and-Rates /?regionkey=nylongisland&customertype=business

Copies of the proposed revisions are available for public inspection and can be obtained on the Company’s website at https://www.nationalgridus.com

he used to throw at the punching bag in the basement of his boyhood home in Washington, DC.

Buchanan was an English major at Georgetown University. He was a history buff. This gave his arguments a sound historical and literary foundation. Most pundits throw out arguments and incentives. Buchanan was plenty controversial, but the man had a thorough knowledge of Western history and literature. Just read his 14 serious-as-a-heart attack books.

Buchanan’s career was divided into two parts: The Goldwater-Reaganite Cold War warrior of the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, followed by the lonely America First champion of the early 1990s and beyond.

The latter represented the road not taken. When Buchanan used his immense media platform to articulate a policy of trade protectionism, immigration restrictions, and anti-interventionism, Fred Barnes crowed: “You guys aren’t a wing of the Republican Party, you’re not even a feather!”

So Buchanan, urged on by his younger sister, Bay, ran for president in 1992. His 37 percent vote in the New Hampshire primary spelled the doom of George H.W. Bush’s

presidency and inspired Ross Perot to enter that year’s race.

Four years later, Buchanan won the New Hampshire primary, igniting a left/ right media onslaught unseen in American history. GOP voters stuck with Bob Dole, the safe choice, someone with no prospects of unseating Bill Clinton.

There was never a chance of a Buchanan presidency. It matters. If Buchanan had been elected in 1996, America would be a far different place today: Borders sealed, manufacturing jobs right here in the U.S. of A., marriage strictly between a man and a woman, historical monuments protected, a nation enjoying peace and prosperity.

Above all, the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 would never have taken place. A Buchanan presidency would not have U.S. troops in Saudi Arabia, a fact that apparently set Osama bin Laden into a terrorist mode. Further, the terrorists who committed the crimes never would have been allowed into the United States in the first place. This is no consolation for those who continue to suffer. It is, I maintain, undeniable.

Patrick J. Buchanan, right, with Richard Nixon

[Pat] Buchanan’s style was short and to the point, words written as hard as the one-two combination punches he used to throw at the punching bag in the basement of his boyhood home in Washington, DC.

Art League Of Long Island Hosts LI Artists Exhibition, Open House

The Art League of Long Island’s 61st Long Island Artists Exhibition features 2-D and 3-D works created by artists from Suffolk, Nassau, Brooklyn, and Queens. The exhibit will be on view in the Art League’s spacious Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery March 4 through April 7, 2023. The opening reception takes place Saturday, March 11 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

The Art League of Long Island’s Open House will take place on Saturday, March 18 from 11 am to 2pm. The Open House offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about its year-round art classes and summer programs and see what happens in the Art League’s specialized art studios. Art League instructors will perform live art demonstrations in painting, drawing, ceramics, jewelry making, and printmaking, catering to students of all ages. Some of these demos will be interactive, allowing individuals and families to create fun art projects. Meet Summer Art Adventure Program Director Marianne Murphy and teaching assistants as kids work on fun hands-on activities. The Art League is a not-for-profit art center offering more than 300 visual arts classes annually in a variety of mediums to adults, teens, and kids ages five and up. Classes, workshops, and open studios are offered to beginner, intermediate, and advanced students year-round, in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends. Students can register at any time throughout the year.

Summer Programs are available for kids ages 5 to 14 and for older teens working on their college portfolios. In addition to the myriad art classes, the Art League also hosts special events, lectures and exhibits throughout the year.

The Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery is open free of charge Tuesdays & Thursdays 10am-8pm, Fridays & Saturdays 10am-3pm. The Art League is located at 107 East Deer Park Road, in Dix Hills. Artwork on display in the gallery may be available for purchase. For more information visit www.artleagueli.org.

—Submitted by Art League of Long Island

Malverne Chamber Of Commerce

Call For Artists

Sixth annual Art Walk open to all Long Islanders

The Malverne Chamber of Commernce is seeking artists and photographers to participate in their annual art walk. Accepted art work will be displayed in Malverne shops and services for two weeks. Works must be approved by the art counsel. No overtly political work or nudes will be accepted. Photo-based works, paintings, sculpture, unconventional and multimedia are welcome.

Email mcasini@VisualFuelDesign.com to enter. Include a JPEG or PDF of each piece for consideration. Be sure to label with your name, phone number, title of entry and medium of entry. If submitting via mail, send entries to Maria Casini at Visual Fuel Design, 16 Kevin Court, Malverne, NY 11565. Include clear, well-lit photos or printouts of each piece, the title, medium and personal information, including phone number and email. Work must not

exceed 20 inches by 30 inches.

All accepted entries must be original to the entrant. No more than six entries per artist will be reviewed for consideration. Two might be selected. Accepted art must be framed with a hanging wire on the back or ready to display. Art will be considered partially by how easily it can be displayed.

The deadline for submission is March 31. Artists will be notified their work has been accepted for display no later than April 11.

Fees for entries are $30 for the first two entries, $15 for full-time students. Additional entries are $5 each. The Malverne Chamber of Commerce retains a 20 percent commision from any artwork sold.

The Art Walk will run from the end of June into July, with a reception in June at the Malverne Library. Exact dates to be determined.

A collage of works from the Art League’s exhibition in 2021.

(Photo by the Art League of Long Island)

Attorney General James Recovers Over $422,000 For Hundreds Of Long Island Tenants Illegally Denied Security Deposits

New York Attorney General Letitia James recovered more than $422,000 for hundreds of tenants whose security deposits were illegally withheld by Fairfield Properties (Fairfield), one of the largest residential property owners on Long Island. The real estate company illegally withheld full or partial security deposits without providing tenants with a written itemized list of deductions, inspected apartments without the tenant present, and did not allow tenants to make repairs before vacating their apartment to avoid penalties. As a result of today’s agreement, Fairfield must return security deposits that it illegally withheld to approximately 900 former tenants, including interest, and pay $90,000 in penalties.

“New Yorkers shouldn’t have to worry that their landlord will illegally withhold money that belongs to them,” said Attorney General James. “Fairfield withheld thousands of dollars that belonged to hardworking people, and today, we are returning that money to tenants who were shortchanged. We will always go after landlords that violate the law and the rights of New Yorkers.”

Fairfield owns and operates 196 rental buildings with 13,620 rental units in Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens counties. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) received complaints from tenants that Fairfield was withholding their security deposits, and after an investigation, OAG found that the real estate company

routinely violated several housing and tenant protection laws.

New York law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of any deductions on security deposits within 14 days or else a security deposit must be returned in full. Fairfield withheld full security deposits or returned partial deposits without providing tenants a written itemized list of deductions. New York law also requires landlords to give tenants written notice of their right to be present when the apartment is inspected and must allow tenants the opportunity to clean or fix anything

that would be deducted from their security deposit. Fairfield routinely inspected apartments without the tenant present and did not give tenants the opportunity to make repairs or clean their apartment before vacating it.

As a result of today’s agreement, Fairfield will return $422,598.21 back to 899 former tenants who had some or all of their security deposits withheld. Fairfield will contact former tenants and send them their checks. The company will also pay $90,000 in penalties to the state and will be required to provide reports to OAG about its compliance with this agreement. The company has agreed to comply with all laws regarding security deposits and must send certificates affirming their compliance every year or whenever requested by OAG for three years. They will also train current staff on correct security deposit procedures and will provide annual trainings in the future.

“Enforcement by the New York Attorney General is the key to tenants’ rights actually being obeyed in the marketplace,” said Ian Wilder, Executive Director, Long Island Housing Services. “It is unfortunate that law enforcement is forced to step in to make sure that tenants are protected. As both a Fair Housing and HUD-certified Housing Counseling agency, we see that laws passed by the legislature to ensure that tenants are on equal footing with their landlords are often ignored. Tenants regularly find themselves without the

resources to ensure that their rights are obeyed. We appreciate that the New York Attorney General stepped forward to protect our fellow Long Islanders.”

This agreement is part of Attorney General James’ ongoing efforts to protect tenants and hold bad landlords accountable. In December, Attorney General James barred a Queens property manager from locking tenants out of their homes. In November, she stopped real estate company Compass from denying housing to low-income New Yorkers. In October, Attorney General James and the Tenant Harassment Prevention Task Force announced a settlement with Greg Fournier and his real estate company, Greenbrook Holdings, for harassing tenants and engaging in unlawful practices in managing its buildings in Brooklyn. In September, Attorney General James secured $4 million from landlords after uncovering an illegal kickback scheme to deregulate apartments.

This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Rachael C. Anello of the Suffolk Regional Office, with the assistance of student intern Mishaal Bajwa, under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General in Charge Kimberly A. Kinirons. The Suffolk Regional Office is part of the Division of Regional Affairs, which is led by Deputy Attorney General Jill Faber and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. —Submitted by the Office of the Attorney General

Legislation to Make Volunteer Firefighters, Ambulance Workers Eligible for Property Tax Exemptions After Two Years of Service

To ensure that Nassau County’s volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers receive the maximum property tax exemption allowable under a recently amended state law, Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Kevan M. Abrahams (D – Freeport) and his Minority Caucus colleagues have proudly introduced legislation that will make firefighter/ambulance workers eligible for property tax exemptions after completing two years of volunteer service.

The previous eligibility threshold was five years of service. On Friday, Jan. 20, the seven members of the Minority Caucus filed legislation that would opt Nassau County into a state law, enacted in December 2022, that allows volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers to apply for up to a 10-percent exemption on the assessed value of their property (exclusive of special assessments) after completing two years of service. Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers must live in the community

served by their volunteer organization to qualify for this exemption.

Days after the Minority Caucus filed its legislative proposal, the Majority Caucus re-filed the proposal on Monday, Jan. 23 with all 19 legislators as sponsors, all but guaranteeing passage.

“The Minority Caucus is deeply appreciative of the commitment that our courageous volunteer firefighters

and ambulance workers demonstrate as they serve and protect the residents of Nassau County on a daily basis,” Minority Leader Abrahams said. “We are gratified that our proposal appears on track for unanimous approval, and we look forward to providing an incentive that will make Nassau County more affordable for our selfless volunteers and encourage more people to step up and answer the call of community service.”

—Submitted by the Nassau County Minority Caucus

Letitia James, Attorney General for the state of New York

(Photo by the Office of the Attorney General)

Omnibus Funding Package Includes Over $26M In Federal Funding For Long Island

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, along with Long Island members of the House of Representatives, recently announced that they had secured over $26 million in funds for Long Island as part of the final omnibus funding package for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023.

The senators secured a total of $26,244,395 for projects across Suffolk and Nassau County, including facility upgrades and educational programs at Stony Brook University and Long Island University, upgrades to key local infrastructure such as the Town of Southampton’s sewage system, and funding for social programs such as substance use prevention and homeless safety net services.

“From increasing access to public water to creating a STEM career center, upgrading a local park, and providing support services to vulnerable populations, these community projects are making a difference across Long Island,” said U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. “I’m proud to bring this substantial federal funding to our communities and I’ll keep fighting to help these vital organizations and institutions continue their great work across the island.”

Organizations receiving funds include:

• Town of Brookhaven Suffolk County Water Authority Calverton Connection Project ($5,000,000)

• The funds will go toward Suffolk County Water Authority’s proposed plan to extend 21,000 linear feet of water main along Mill Road in Manorville to areas in the vicinity of South River Road in Calverton, Town of Brookhaven.

This project would give 98 homes on private wells in a DEC Potential Environmental Justice Area access to public water. Many of these homes are within a Suffolk County Department of Health Services Survey area that has detected PFAS levels above the maximum contaminant level.

• Town of Southampton Riverside Sewer System Project ($5,000,000)

• Funds will go toward the construction of sanitary infrastructure and a centralized sanitary treatment facility that will service the entire hamlet of Riverside.

The total anticipated sanitary wastewater flow from the project area is 800,000 gallons per day, and the sewage treatment plant is to be phased in 400,000-gallon increments.

• City of Glen Cove / Installation of Packed Tower Aeration System at Duck Pond Road Well Station ($3,452,972)

• Funds will go toward a new, permanent Packed Tower Aeration System (PTAS) and backup generator to keep three critical water wells in service and to remove harmful contaminates from the City’s drinking water.

• Town of Brookhaven / Bellport-North Bellport Sewer Hook-ups ($3,260,000)

• Funds will go toward providing sewer hook-ups in conjunction with sewer connections/upgrades to be made by Suffolk County.

• Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory ($2,000,000)

Funds will go toward the establishment of a Next Generation AI Center for Advanced Cancer Diagnostics, which will include modernized equipment with state-of-theart spatial transcriptomics technology to Interfaith Nutrition Network ($2,000,000) Funds will go toward the renovation of a newly acquired building that will allow

help study tumors in depth. expand its existing homeless safety net programs and create new ones. INN will be able to expand its Center for

Transformative Change to meet individually with guests to develop plans of action that are custom tailored to meet their specific social services needs; provide sleeping pods for temporary respite for guests during operating hours; expand its Clothing Boutique with adequate space to develop a new Dressed for Success work attire program; create new clinic space that will enable its partner organizations to provide medical, mental health, and substance abuse counseling services on site, thereby eliminating transportation challenges that are often difficult for guests to overcome; and offer a new training suite for use in workforce development programs that will help the guests move toward a more stable future.

• SUNY Old Westbury ($1,870,000)

• The funds will go toward the creation of an inclusive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) career preparatory center at SUNY Old Westbury. OW-STEM aims to engage students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEMrelated fields to set them on a trajectory toward successful STEM-oriented careers. The Center will feature:

• Cutting-edge, inquiry-based STEM pedagogy featuring work with complex data sets from active research efforts.

• A fully integrated learning community structure to provide a holistic and comprehensive educational experience.

• A central focus on green jobs and the green

curriculum.

justice-involved women and girls.

• Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth, Inc. ($500,000

• Funding will go toward programming supporting LGBT middle and high schoolaged youth in substance use prevention, mental health, and anti-bullying.

• The Aaron & Marion Gural JCC Inc. (GJCC) / Resilient Impactful Sustaining Empowerment Project ($300,000)

• The funding will go toward significantly expanding GJCC’s mental health and supportive services for three vulnerable populations who have experienced serious trauma in their life: Holocaust survivors (and their families), Ukrainian and Russian immigrant seniors, and victims of domestic violence residing in and around the Five Towns of Long Island, NY. The program will provide wraparound trauma-counseling to 300 unduplicated individuals, as well as outreach and educational services to another 5,000 individuals.

Freeport Union Free School District ($173,923)

student activities.

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Freeport High School will use the funds for the creation of a college and career center that will promote a college-going mentality as well as offer a place where information and resources are readily available to students and their parents.

• The Town of North Hempstead will use these funds to upgrade the 6.07-acre Bunky Reid Park, adjacent to and part of the Yes We Can Community Center, which is one of the few outdoor park, recreation and wellness spaces for New Cassel and the Village of Westbury. North Hempstead will renew and improve this outdoor community park with a new skate park, community gardens and pollinator areas, and improvements to the deteriorating swimming pool.

• The Woman’s Opportunity Rehabilitation Center Justice Services ($638,000)

• Funding will go toward continuing to provide relocation services for domestic violence survivors as well as educational/ vocational and mentoring services for

The Freeport High School College and Career Center will focus on designing, implementing, and managing services, programs and systems that foster college and career readiness. The Center will offer information about career paths and college including college majors, essays, and applications; financial aid; resume writing; college entrance exams and much more. It would house a variety of books, brochures and computer programs with specialized guidance materials, test registration forms and other relevant information and resources.

• Long Island University ($149,500)

• Long Island University in Nassau County will use the funding in collaboration with the Society of Presidential Descendants to digitize and archive the personal collections of past presidents, including correspondence, journals, and other historical records. These records will be publicly available and will spur students, scholars, and the general public to engage with important figures in American history.

—With contributions from the office of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand

partnership to facilitate internships for students.

Comptroller: Flaws In Reassessment

said. “The fact is, the data and our assessment system had errors.”

FRANK RIZZO

Bad data, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips suggested, may have contributed to the county’s reassessment problems.

Phillips related what her audit of the county’s Department of Assessment (DOA) had found as she spoke at the Manhasset Chamber of Commerce installation luncheon on Jan. 18.

Her office had been asked by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman to take a look at the DOA’s reassessment undertaken at the direction of then-Executive Laura Curran, who lost to Blakeman in the 2021 election. Curran had argued that values for the approximately 386,000 residences and 37,000 businesses in the county were unrealistic due to the actions of her predecessor Edward Mangano, who froze the assessment rolls. Her administration introduced tentative assessment rolls on Jan. 2, 2019 and the reassessment was controversial, with many residents finding their home values for taxation purposes rising dramatically while others saw a reduction. Critics charged that the new rolls were filled with errors and rewarded those who filed tax certioraris (grieving the assessed value).

Phillips stated that Mangano had hired a pair of expert valuation firms, Standard

Valuation Services (SVS) and Michael Haberman Associates, Inc. (MHA) to review the DOA’s “property information, assessment processes and the ability of its software system, ADAPT, to produce valuations.”

The experts put out their respective reports in December 2017 and January 2018, during the transition to Curran and her taking office. Both, according to the recent audit, “indicated significant weaknesses in the property information and characteristic data maintained by the [DOA].”

The new administration hired the same

two companies and asked them to come up with a reassessment by September 2018, despite their warnings about the imperfect data and lack of time to correct it. To ease the shock of the new valuation, Curran got the state legislature to allow her administration to phase-in the higher tax rates over a period of five years for residential properties.

“If analysis and quality control had been done before that reassessment got released, I am confident that the errors and the impact that it had on us as property owners would not have been as severe,” Phillips

Her auditors also found that DOA employees were entering data from the county clerk’s office, such as deeds and title transfers which contained valuable property information, by hand.

“The [data input] process was backed up by months, if not years,” she said.

She emphasized that the “goal [of the audit] is not to point fingers. The goal is to make sure that any administration—it may be the current or a future administrations— doesn’t make any mistakes that were made in the past.”

She pointed to a poster in which five similar properties with exact assessed values were listed and noted that those who had grieved multiple times had a much lower tax liability, in some cases by tens of thousands of dollars.

“They rewarded those homeowners that had grieved and they penalized homeowners that never grieved,” Phillips summed up.

“Taxpayers in Nassau County have the right to expect fair and equitable property valuations, conducted with transparency,” Phillips said in a statement. “Restoring trust in government is among my highest priorities, and integrity and fairness in assessed values are among our residents’ top concerns. This review of the 2020/21 Reassessment sheds light on a deeply flawed process and makes recommendations for the improvement of the county’s property assessment process going forward.”

Read a longer story at www.longislandweekly.com.

Green Comet May Be Visible Through February 9th

A recently discovered comet is now passing through the inner solar system and should be visible with a telescope and possibly even binoculars. The comet, dubbed C/2022 E3 (ZTF) – was first sighted in March last year, when it was already inside the orbit of Jupiter. It made its closest approach to the Sun on January 12 and then passed closest to Earth on February 2.

This is the first time this comet has made a pass by earth in 50,000 years, and it’s worth spotting. It has a bright green glow. Comets are notoriously unpredictable, but if this one continues its current trend in brightness, it’ll be easy to spot with binoculars, and it’s possible it could become visible to the unaided eye under dark skies.

Comets hang out just outside the solar system and are mostly made of frozen gas, dust and rock. Some exist in a wide disk beyond the orbit of Neptune called the Kuiper Belt. Other comets live in the Oort Cloud, the sphere-shaped, outer edge of the solar system that is about 50 times farther away from the Sun than the Kuiper Belt. The comet with the longest known orbit takes more than 250,000 years to make just one trip around the Sun.

Gravity from other celestial objects, like planets and stars, can pull comets out of these far reaches of the solar system. As the redirected comet passes closer to the sun, it heats up, causing a trail of debris to stream behind it. This is the tail of the comet. This reflects the light of the sun

and makes the comet appear like bright streak in the night sky.

NASA’s Stardust mission collected samples from Comet Wild 2 and brought them back to Earth. Scientists found those particles to be rich in hydrocarbons, which are chemicals considered the “building blocks” of life.

Rosetta, a mission of the European Space Agency that had several NASA instruments onboard, studied Comet 67P Churyumov-Gerasimenko. Rosetta dropped a lander on the nucleus, then orbited the comet for two years. Rosetta detected building blocks of life on this comet, too. And images showed Comet 67P to be a rugged object with lots of activity shaping its surface.

—With Contributions from Nasa

Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips points to a blow up from her department’s recent audit. It shows five exactly valued properties, and how homeowners who files tax grievances reduced their tax liability. (Photo by Frank Rizzo)

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

JENNIFER CORR

It’s almost the day of love, Valentine’s Day! It’s time to grab a card, some flowers, chocolate or whatever your significant other, or friend, would like to feel loved. But Valentine’s Day, or the week of, also makes for a great time to spend with your favorite person.

Here are some date ideas within all different price ranges:

Valentine’s Day dinners and brunches: Glen Cove Mansion: Enjoy a four course dinner, complete with a cocktail hour, open bar and entertainment for $110 a person. Dinner goes from 6 to 10 p.m. on Feb. 14. Buy tickets at themansionatglencove.com/.

The Milleridge Inn: Join the Milleridge Inn in Jericho for a romantic brunch. Enjoy all you can eat prime rib, crab legs, shrimp and more. This event is on Sunday, Feb. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Brunch is $65.95 for adults ($75.95 for bottomless mimosas) and $39.95 for children. Visit the milleridgeinn.com for tickets.

The Red Salt Room: Enjoy a Prix-fixe menu by legendary chef David Burke at the Red Salt Room at the Garden City Hotel on Feb. 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. for $135. To see the menu and learn how to get tickets, visit gardencityhotel.com/redsalt-room. There will also be a brunch on Feb. 12.

Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate: Have dinner in a castle with this prix-fixe menu at Oheka Castle in Huntington. Seating is from 4 to 8:30 p.m. on Feb. 14, and is $175 a person. To see the menu and reserve a table, visit oheka.com/upcoming-events. htm. There will also be a brunch the prior weekend.

Valentine’s Day scares: Bayville Scream Park: Go for a very untraditional Valentine’s Day date and head over to Bayville Scream Park, otherwise called Bayville Adventure Park, on Feb. 10, 11 and 14 for three Valentine’s-Day themed haunted houses and three themed bars, as well as a three-course dinner. Deals range from $29.75 to $79.75. Visit bayvillescreampark.com for tickets and more information.

Cooking and art classes: What’s Cooking?: Book a private cooking class for $175 with What’s Cooking? in Oyster Bay. Learn how to make steam, shrimp, fish and vegetarian tacos as well as guacamole, vegetarian slaw and super festive toppings. Reserve on whatscookingny.com.

The Well Seasoned Chef: Learn how to make creamy organic tomato soup, pan seared steak with horseradish sauce, garlicky stir fried brussels sprouts, rosemary-Parmesan roasted potatoes and chocolate covered strawberries with homemade ice cream at The Well Seasoned Chef on Feb. 13. The class is $120 and it books fast, so reserve your spot at thewellseasonedchef.com.

ClayNation: Paint and sip in a tranquil, creative alternative to a bar scene at ClayNation in Glen Cove. There is a variety of art projects to choose from and you will never get bored. ClayNation provides everything needed to complete your art project, so feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks. There is an $8 studio fee, plus the cost of your project. This class is on Feb. 10 from 6 to 10 p.m. Sign up at claynationonline.com.

Pottery on Wheels: This studio in West Islip offers pottery wheel classes for adults. For an hour, adults, who are beginners at pottery, will have the opportunity to work on the pottery wheel or hand-building tables with close instruction. Participants

will choose two of their pieces to be fired, glazed and ready to be picked up about 3 to 4 weeks later. The class is $65. Sign up at potteryonwheelsny.com.

The Art Guild: Learn from artist Steven Vando at the Art Guild in Manhasset from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 16 and create “Experimental Florals in Loose and SemiAbstract Watercolors.” This class is $75 for non-members and $60 for members. Sign up at theartguild.org.

Pinot’s Palette: Get creative at Pinot’s Palette, a paint-and-sip studio, in East Meadow on any day, including Valentine’s Day. On Feb. 14, there will be classes “Love In The Horizon” and Blossoming Moonlight Love.” Sign up for these $46 classes at pinotspalette.com/eastmeadow.

Wine and beer tastings: Garvies Point Brewery & Restaurant: At this brewery in Glen Cove, enjoy one of Garvies Point Brewery’s flights right from the brewery with any appetizer for $20. For more information, visit garviespointbreweryandrestaurant.com.

Lithology Brewing Co.: At this brewery in Farmingdale, get your first flight for $13. For more information visit lithologybrewing.com.

W A Meadwerks: Taste various craft honey wines here in Lindenhurst. There are $12 flights, $3 samples and $8 glasses. Visit wameadwerks.com for more information.

Spa Day:

Glen Cove Mansion: The newly opened MYW Studios Mansion Spa is designed for your enjoyment and relaxation. Services including massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, treatments, and even a salt cave. Day passes for guests start at $20 and for non-guests $45 and include fitness center, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. To reserve, visit themansionatglencove.com.

East Wind Long Island: Spa packages at this hotel in Wading River start at $569 per couple. The starting package includes luxury overnight accommodations, $70 voucher towards dinner, champagne and chocolate strawberries and a hot stone massage or hydro-lifting facial per person at The Spa & Salon.

The Rockaway Hotel and Spa: Enjoy the Winter Pool House at The Rockaway Hotel and Spa in Queens. Included in the day pass, which starts at $30, there is access to the pool house, the sauna, lounge space and outdoor heated pool as well as towels and robes to use. There are other spa services at the hotel as well. Book online at therockawayhotel.com.

Winter Hikes (Free!): Garvies Point Preserve: Five miles of marked nature trails in Glen Cove.

Muttontown Preserve: Five hundred and fifty acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and estate grounds in East Norwich.

Cold Spring Harbor State Park: Forty acres of hilly terrain that offer scenic vistas of the Cold Spring Harbor.

Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve: The preserve’s highest point of 155-feet produces tremendous views of the Jones Beach Tower, the New York City skyline, and numerous coastal treasures. It’s located in Merrick.

Mill Pond Park: This long and narrow 54-acre preserve, located in Wantagh, includes a large pond that draws numerous native waterfowl, along with nature trails that wind through a wet woodland with red maple, coast pepperbush and skunk cabbage.

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve: Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, situated on a scenic peninsula extending into Long Island Sound in Huntington, offers miles of bridle paths, walking, jogging, hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and nature trails over acres of woodland, meadows, rock shoreline and salt marsh.

WORD FIND

This

HOROSCOPES By Holiday Mathis

HOROSCOPES

Holiday Mathis

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND HOROSCOPES By

By Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’d love it if you didn’t need attention from others and were only doing what you do to ful ll your own curiosity and passion. Alas, attention is a basic human need. It’s woven into the fabric of humanity, and however ne or coarse the thread may be, there’s no shame in it. It’s part of the human connection.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). People decide how to interact based on the limited information they know of you at any given moment. Your self-knowledge is deeper but still incomplete. is is the value in long relationships with people who have experienced you in many scenarios. is week, you’ll bene t from seasoned insights.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Just when you think you’re working in isolation, or having an experience all your own, things shift. You’ll understand that you’re operating in a shared world, a co-creation. All that happens is a function of the group. Although there are more or less in uential people present, no individual is in control of the outcome.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). When the job places demands on your skill, grace and creativity, you feel happier for it. It’s when the job taps on your patience or acting ability that you feel the burden of work. It will still build and improve you, as long as you take it in small doses, lifting intentionally and methodically like a weightlifter in training.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). ere are those who are happy to see you explore, have adventures and learn what you’re good at. ey’ll celebrate you when you do well, and you won’t ever have to worry about them being jealous or trying to keep you in a certain role. is is what real love is. Soak it in.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). While learning involves duplication, it’s not all there is to it. You’re not a robot following a program; you’re an organism who learns through your senses and experience. You can’t learn in an environment that won’t let you take risks and make mistakes. Success will be a function of choosing your “classroom” well.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). What attention do you owe people in your life, your community and the world at large? How much can you give and still have plenty left for what matters to you? You’d rather tend to small, lovely things than let big, impersonal entities grab your focus. With intentionality, quiet and mindfulness, you’ll make it happen.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). While you can never pay certain people back for all they’ve done to make your life better, your respect makes a di erence. You’ll model this for those too immature to understand the reasons and ways our forebears sacri ced for our daily world to run smoothly. You pay homage in both playful and solemn ways.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You have a foggy fantasy about how a project will go and what it will entail. You’re about to nd out. Give yourself credit for having the rare courage to jump in and nd out what it’s really like. Even if the reality doesn’t quite live up to the dream, the vividness of experience is still the preference of the brave.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Clear-headed action is seldom associated with the storms of passion. In poetry, drama and song, too much romantic fervor often signi es doom. You’ll wonder if you’re too crazy about something or someone to make the right moves. Even the slightest detachment gives the bene t of healthy perspective.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Must it always be work before play? e animals are doing play rst, just as you did when you were small. It’s the natural way, and you never want to lose the ability of being excellent at the games that make existence sparkle. So you’ll practice and prioritize your fun -- an ordering of life you won’t be sorry for.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). ere will be exaggerations and overreactions to contend with this week and the equivalent of children crying for ice cream, infusing urgent emotion into nonessentials. You’ll acknowledge the emotions of others without taking them on as your responsibility and your days are made peaceful.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

ere was a time in your life when you thought peace was the opposite of an exciting life, but now you understand the fullness of experience that can happen from a foundation of deep peace. Feeling satis ed, connected and c alm allows you to go into the wilderness of life and creativity and have vividly felt adventures. You continue to resolve problems and settle into a serenity from which lovely relationships and projects will blossom. It will be among your top years.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

alternative theme of the puzzle.

All that glitters

Solution: 22 Letters

WORD FIND

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 22 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

All

Solution: 22

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CONTRACT BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, FEB. 8, 2023

Date: 2/8/23

CONTRACT BRIDGE

737 3rd Street Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310-337-7003 info@creators.com

By Steve Becker

Big swing on a small deal

South dealer. Both sides vulnerable.

Declarer then collected the rest of the tricks. He cashed the A-K of trump and the K-J of clubs, then crossed to dummy with a trump and discarded both his hearts on the A-Q of clubs to finish with 10 tricks and a score of 170 points.

At the second table, the defense functioned far more efficiently. Here East played the deuce of diamonds on the king to discourage West from continuing the suit, so West shifted to the jack of hearts at trick two.

East cashed the A-Q of hearts and reverted to diamonds by returning the nine. West won with the jack, cashed the ace and continued with the seven. When dummy ruffed with the nine, East overruffed with the queen.

Opening lead — king of diamonds.

Consider this deal from a teamof-four match. Only a partscore was involved, but even so, the hand is highly instructive.

At the first table, West led the diamond king, East signaling with the nine to indicate a doubleton. West continued with the ace and another diamond, which East ruffed. East could now have saved a trick by cashing the ace of hearts, but instead he returned a trump.

Then — as if declarer had not already suffered enough — East heartlessly returned a heart, promoting West’s jack of spades into another trump trick.

So, the declarer at this table went down two — 200 points — which was four tricks and 370 points worse than his counterpart had done at the first table. It was not that South had done anything wrong — he didn’t. It was simply that his opponents did everything right.

Tomorrow: A futile gesture.

is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have pleted the puzzle, there will be 22 letters left over. They spell out the

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. Answer to last issue’s Crossword Puzzle

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Pre-Registration Period Now Open For 2023 Town Summer Recreation Program

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Vicki Walsh announce that residents interested in having their children participate in the 2023 Summer Recreation Program can now upload necessary documents and materials for review in advance of the final registration period. This process is mandatory prior to registration this spring and will be performed fully online. This year’s Summer Recreation Program will once again include full-day options as well as the traditional program for children ages 4 through 12. Space is limited at each facility.

“The Town’s Summer Recreation Program features great summer fun for children at six of our town parks, with activities including arts and crafts, various games, themed days, water fun, scavenger hunts and so much more,” said Supervisor Saladino. “To help streamline the registration process this year, residents will be able to sign-up their children online this spring, and can begin pre-registration today.”

All registrations for Summer Recreation will performed online this year. In an effort to simplify the process, the Town’s Parks Department is now accepting all necessary documentation, including proof of residency, child’s birth certificates, recent physicals etc. to be uploaded to a portal on the town’s website prior to the final registration period

this spring. This process is mandatory and ends on March 15. Once all documentation is properly uploaded, parents/guardians will receive notification of approval to register, as well as directions for online registration.

How to upload materials (note: pre-registration does not guarantee a spot in this year’s Summer Recreation Program. Parents will need to perform final registration this spring)

•Parents/guardians can visit www.oysterbaytown.com/parksportal

•Select ‘My Account’ on the top right corner and log-in or create a new account (if your child was registered for the 2022 Summer Program, you already have an account, however documents must be uploaded)

•After logging in, select ‘My Account,’ then Household & Member. Confirm all family members are listed. If needed, select ‘Add Family member’ at bottom of page and add a child or guardian to the household. Then SAVE

•Select DOCUMENT UPLOAD from the portal menu. Each document must be uploaded as a separate file (make sure all scanned documents are legible)

Required documents:

•- Proof of residency (tax or utility bill)

•Child’s Birth Certificate

•- Child’s Immunization Records (for fullday campers only)

•Child’s recent physical (for full-day campers only)

Additional information, assistance and instructions are available by visiting the Town’s website at www.oysterbaytown. com/summerrecreation or by calling the Recreation Office at 516-797-7945.

“We know many of our youngsters

can’t wait for the warm weather and all the fun they have at the Town’s Summer Recreation Program,” said Councilwoman Walsh. “With full-day options again available at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa, Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park and Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, as well as our traditional programs at Ellsworth Allen Park in Farmingdale, Harry Tappen Beach in Glen Head and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay, we look forward to another successful summer of fun.”

The mandatory pre-registration period, during which interested parents/guardians can upload documents and required materials for registration, is open now through March 15. Submission of materials does not guarantee a spot in the 2023 program – parents must complete their registration this spring when final registration opens. Parents will receive an email from the Recreation Division confirming that all documents have been received, as well as directions on how to complete registration. All registration will take place online. For more information, visit www. oysterbaytown.com/summerrecreation or call the Town’s Recreation Office at 516797-7945.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

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Sign your child up for summer fun with the Town of Oyster Bay.

(Photo courtesy Unsplash)

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Town Officials, Local Asian-American Community Celebrate Lunar New Year Of The Rabbit

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca, and Receiver of Taxes

Town Announces Upcoming Drawing, Knitting And Painting Classes

Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand announced that registration for the Town’s Spring 2023 Cultural Enrichment Programs will be held online only for the first time. Both residents and non-residents must register for classes including Figure Drawing, Outdoor Painting, Chunky Hand-Knit Blanket, Watercolor Painting, Oil Painting, Drawing Fundamentals, Sumi-E Painting and Painting with Acrylics online at www. oysterbaytown.com/portal.

Celebrating Lunar New Year with the Town Board.

(Photos courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

the Chinese culture’s wonderful diversity, splendor, and richness.

FEBRUARY 8 - 14, 2023 • ANTON MEDIA GROUP 4

Jeffrey Pravato hosted a Lunar New Year Celebration at Town Hall in partnership with numerous Chinese-American Community Groups. The event featured traditional performances from Sitan Tai Chi and Martial Arts, the Long Island Music Conservatory, Yes I Can Performing Arts Center, and The Rabbit Dance Team, in addition to a presentation honoring the Chinese Association of Jericho, Chinese American Association of Syosset, Chinese American Association of Plainview, and Long Island Chinese American Association. Supervisor Saladino thanked these organizations for their tremendous contributions in preserving the Chinese heritage in our community and emphasized the importance of celebrating the Lunar New Year, a time of unifying celebration for millions around the world that recognizes

When Helen Diamant died in her Jesup, Georgia home of 18 years on June 4, 2016, it was less than 24 hours after the death of Muhammad Ali. While “Miss Diamant’s” obituary appeared in her local Jesup newspaper (the Press-Sentinel) Ali’s life and death were reported on thousands of front pages, and read by millions of people around the world. Ali’s fame had begun when, as a 22-year-old boxer named Cassius Clay, he defeated the 7-1 favorite, heavyweight champion Sonny Liston. I would argue that my tiny mother-in-law, in her own quiet way, had previously defeated an even more formidable foe than Liston ever was: namely Adolf Hitler! And here is the rest of that story:

When Helen Diamant herself was 22-year-old Chella Wildenberg in 1939 Poland, Hitler invaded her country at the beginning of World War II. By the time Cassius Clay was born in 1942, Helen (then,

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

“I am pleased to announce that the Town’s Cultural Enrichment Program will return once again this spring, as these enrichment programs offer residents the opportunity to develop a new skill while having fun in the process,” Councilman Hand said. “To streamline the registration process and increase convenience and accessibility for residents, we’ve opened registration online only for the first time. Our dedicated staff will be available to assist all interested participants, whether you’re an emerging artist or a resident looking for a new hobby.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

the Polish “Chella”) had already been suffering at the hands of Hitler’s Nazis for several years. There came a day when she learned that all the workers in the labor camp where she was imprisoned would soon be sent to the infamous Treblinka concentration camp to be murdered in its gas chambers, but she somehow managed to escape. She was also able to rescue her younger brother from another work camp. After weeks of running, hiding, freezing and starving, he finally told her he wanted them to give themselves up---knowing they would be shot to death, but also that their fear, hunger and suffering would finally come to an end. He believed that their continuing survival was an impossibility, but Helen told him “No, I won’t do that. I HAVE TO SEE THE END OF HITLER, and I just know he’s going to have a bad end.” She later said that belief was part of what “kept me going.”

Unfortunately, she and her brother eventually got separated, and before the end of the war he, their older brother and sister, their parents, and two dozen other relatives all were killed. Except Helen, who had kept her promise to herself to “live to see the end of Hitler”.

When Hitler ignominiously killed himself at age 56 in 1945, Helen, who had eventually escaped to relative safety in---of all places---Germany, was working as a maid. She was then 28-years-old, only half of Hitler’s age, but she was to live on long past his 56 years on earth. She lived until the age of 99, having graced the earth for 43 years MORE than the 56 years Hitler defiled it. She lived into 2016, surviving past his 1945 death by 71 long and fruitful years. When Hitler killed himself inside his underground bunker, he died in defeat, surrounded mainly by people who feared him. When “Miss Helen” died inside her Jesup home in 2016, she died with dignity, surrounded by people who loved her.

Just the year after Hitler’s 1945 death, Helen and her husband Howard were blessed with the birth of their daughter Laura. They then had 3 sons, and Helen continues to live on today through Laura and two of her brothers : “Dr. Bob” Diamant and “Dr. Mike” Diamant, Wayne Memorial Hospital’s chief anesthesiologists these past two decades.

Helen Diamant has often been called a Holocaust “survivor”, but she has also been both a “striver” and a “thriver.” The dictionary entries for “striver” (“one who exerts much energy and effort, one who struggles

The Celebration Of Tu BiShvat An Updated

Resident registration began on Monday, Feb. 6 at 9 a.m., while non-resident registration began on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 9 a.m.. To register, visit www.oysterbaytown. com/portal, create an account, select the Cultural Enrichment link on the homepage, choose the class(es) you’d like to register for by checking the box, and then select Add to Cart. Please note the fees vary for residents and non-residents. You will next be prompted to select the eligible members on your account; check off all family members that you wish to enroll in the class, and then press continue. Once you’ve proceeded to checkout and submitted your credit card information, a receipt will be linked on the confirmation screen and will also be emailed to you, along with a copy of the supply list for the class, if applicable.

For assistance registering, or for more information, please call the Department of Community & Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts (CAPA) at 516-797-7923.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

to succeed”) and “thriver” (“one who grows vigorously, makes steady progress, prospers and flourishes”) could both be illustrated with pictures of my mother-in-law.

As her cemetery headstone says:

Helen Wildenberg Diamant

Holocaust Survivor

Beloved Mother, Sister and Grandmommy

Born January 19, 1917 in Kozienice, Poland

Passed June 4, 2016 in Jesup, Georgia

SHE GAVE ALL TO HER CHILDREN

Helen Wildenberg Diamant (Contributed photo)

LIU Announces Addition Of Acrobatics, Tumbling Program

Long Island University Director of Athletics Dr. William E. Martinov Jr. announced the addition of a women’s acrobatics and tumbling program to the University’s athletics department, with recruitment for 2023 underway and competition beginning spring 2024. A national search for a head coach has begun.

“Long Island University welcomes the addition of an acrobatics and tumbling program as we provide new opportunities for female athletes who are skilled in gymnastics and cheer to compete in Division I athletics while pursuing an elite education,” said Dr. Martinov. “Acrobatics & Tumbling is an emerging sport nationwide and we look forward to welcoming some of the best student-athletes across the country to Shark Nation.”

Long Island University is the eighth pro-

gram to sponsor Acrobatics & Tumbling at the NCAA Division I level.

Acrobatics and Tumbling is the evolution of different forms of gymnastics. The sport involves tumbling, tosses, acrobatic lifts and pyramids. Competitors in this sport demonstrate significant strength, power, flexibility, and balance in their skill set.

The National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association (NCATA) is the governing body for Acrobatics and Tumbling. The NCATA exists to provide leadership, governance, and education for the sport of Acrobatics and Tumbling at the collegiate level based on fair and safe athletic competition while continuing to expand varsity opportunities for female student-athletes at the collegiate level.

According to the NCATA, over nine mil-

Syosset High School Science Olympiad Team Places First Among New York State Teams At MIT Invitational

Syosset Central School District is pleased to announce that the Syosset High School Science Olympiad team ranked first in New York State at the MIT Science Olympiad Invitational on Jan. 21.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Invitational is considered one of the most difficult invitationals, known for its notoriously complex tests. Nationally ranked teams travel from across the country to compete. Teams are ranked in 23 science-related events, ranging in topic from forensic science to building functional antennae.

Out of the 65 teams competing in the invitational, Syosset took 11th place, making it the highest ranking team from New York.

The team members won 14 medals, placing in the top six in 23 events. This was a monumental victory for the team.

The team, led by their Coach Mildred Castañeda, consisted of Aarya Patel, Aberam Sriganesh, Alex Chen, Andy Chen, Anthony Rodriguez, Blesson Ren, Brenton Lee, Darius Fan, Ishan Patel, Ivory Tseng, Jesse Lebolt, Marcus Hoshino, Samuel Wang, Samuel Xiao, Simeon Hur, and Tina Chen.

Syosset hosted a regional competition on Jan. 28, where students from across Long Island will compete for a spot in the state tournament.

—Submitted by the Syosset Central School District

Syosset Students Attend Annual NYS Theatre Education Association Student Conference

Syosset High School students attended the 26th Annual New York State Theatre Education Association Student Conference in early January. Two of the 17 attendees auditioned and were chosen to showcase their special performances before the entire conference of more than 600 peers: Senior Mara Sparacino and Junior Sally Jamieson.

he New York State Theatre Education Association, a statewide organization of theatre educators, promotes and supports theatre education for students in grades pre-K through 12. This conference creates an opportunity for high school students from all over New York State to come together for a full weekend of learning and peer interaction. These students attended workshops given by colleges, universities and other theatre professionals, as well as networking with one another and experiencing a variety of performances through-

out the conference.

This is the 12th year that Syosset High School sent student representatives to the NYSTEA Student Conference.

—Submitted by the Syosset Central School District

lion young women participate in the skill sets of acrobatics and tumbling, through youth participation in all disciplines of gymnastics or cheerleading.

“The NCATA is thrilled to welcome Long Island University to the Acrobatics and Tumbling community,” said NCATA Executive Director Janell Cook. “President Kimberly Cline and Athletic Director Bill Martinov are committed to operating an inclusive athletics department that embraces new opportunities for women. In sponsoring NCAA Gymnastics and NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling, as well as a robust cheer and dance program, LIU will provide comprehensive opportunities for young women with experience in the numerous gymnastics and cheer disciplines who wish to continue training and competing at

the collegiate level. LIU’s announcement enhances the recent growth Acrobatics & Tumbling has experienced in all three NCAA divisions in the northeast. We are excited about the possibilities for additional growth in the region, and nationally, as we continue progress towards our goal of NCAA championship status.”

Long Island University is home to a competitive NCAA Division I athletics program and is the winner of back-to-back Northeast Conference Commissioner’s Cups, honoring the best conference member for success on the field. LIU fields 37 athletics teams on two campuses. In LIU’s history, its teams have combined for 23 national championships, 220 conference championships, and 379 All-Americans.

—Submitted by Long Island University

Members of the Syosset High School robotics team are pictured displaying the contents of the kit of parts. This is their first year competing in the FRC Long Island Regional.

LI FIRST® Robotics Competition Kicks Off To A Great Start

Syosset Robotics Team receives kit of parts

Syosset High School students attended this year’s kickoff event for the 2023 FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition (FRC), sponsored by FIRST Long Island and hosted by LIU Post. They gathered with more than 40 participating high schools on Saturday, Jan. 7 at LIU Post’s Krasnoff Theater for a presentation and simulcast broadcast from New

Hampshire. After the presentation, each team received a kit of parts, which they will use along with other materials to build a 120-pound robot for the upcoming competition to be held on March 20-26 at Hofstra University.

For more information about FIRST Long Island and the annual FIRST Robotics Competition, visit http://www.sbpli.org.

—Submitted by FIRST Long Island

(Photo courtesy FIRST Long Island)

Syosset High School Junior Sally Jamieson Syosset High School Senior Mara Sparacino

(Photos courtesy the Syosset Central School District)

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