Syosset–Jericho Tribune 4/12/23 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

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An Interview With Alex Dash Of Stranger Sings

Occasionally we are lucky to cross paths with cast and crew in Broadway and Off-Broadway productions who have significant ties to Long Island. In the case of Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical, an Off-Broadway show, which has just been extended through the end of April, we were fortunate to meet, not only one of these people, but two. Alex Dash of Jericho and Kaitlyn Meriam of Farmingdale are holding down the stage management of this lively creation by Jonathan Hogue that is packed with talent. Dash, the production stage manager, is super excited to be a part of this incredible team in the Upside Down. He most recently was the assistant stage manager for the Emojiland (national tour).

We had a chance to chat exclusively with Dash, originally of Jericho.

Here’s What He Had To Tell Us:

QWhat is the best thing about this show?

AThe best thing about this show is how consistent but also how constantly evolving it is. I am truly always on the edge of my seat to see how the show will go. It’s fun because I’m always ready when I am supposed to be but because this show is so based on the audience that we can go off the rails and get a really fun and special moment. But that’s live theatre.

QDid this show teach you something new?

AThis show taught me more about working on the fly. I love problem solving and making quick fixes. So, this

show as small as it is, is so massive. I’ve had the privilege of starting on the show in an assistant stage manager track backstage and now calling the show each evening from the booth. They’re so different but both come with new fun tasks every day. Being backstage and a prop breaks, how do we fix it on the fly or in the booth being on headset and trying to problem solve over headset while still watching and calling the show.

QWhy do you do what you do, professionally?

A What’s funny is I went to school for stage management but because of COVID, I shifted gears and went the corporate route into advertising. While I absolutely have learned to love that too, theatre was always still on my brain. Now I like to tell people I get to live my Hannah Montana dreams and have the best of both worlds because I work corporate 9-to-5, Monday through Friday, and do Stranger

Sings at night. While I am so tired and sacrifice my free time it’s so worth it because there is nothing like working on a show. I do it because it makes me smile, and when I am tired, I just remember I know what it’s like to have jobs that you hate but you have no other choice. This is 100 percent my choice to do double duty but I go home and feel fulfilled each night and that is what’s important to me.

QHow did you get involved in theater?

AI started theatre when I was in fourth grade. I had originally wanted to do sports, but my mom didn’t think it was a good idea (and she’s definitely correct on this). But I started theatre because my cousin Sam was doing it and I saw the love and praise she would get from our whole family showing up and I was like, I can do that. So, I started taking classes and performing at The Cultural Arts Playhouse (CAP) and it became my everything. I

would later spend the rest of my time on Long Island at CAP. I would perform and work in the booth, would usher, etc. I was with my best friends getting to do something I loved. I was even given the title of “Major Domo” by the owner Bruce Grossman. I have them to thank because if I didn’t stick to it who knows what childhood friends I’d still have today. It’s great because this is the first time since leaving CAP six years ago that I get to work with Kaitlyn again. She has been one of my best friends for almost a decade now and getting to hang out with her as much as I do has been the cherry on top for this whole production.

QWhatadvice do you have for aspiring professionals in a similar role?

AKnow your worth and that your time is valuable. Also don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and speak up for what you want. I worked on a showcase almost four years ago. I was so green, and it was my first real show in New York City. But I was feeling bold and on opening night I walked up to Chase, our general manager, and said you’re going to give me a job on Emojiland (then, his upcoming show). He thought it was funny and he did. Here we are now, years later and I am still working on projects with him all because I spoke up for what I wanted. Another piece of advice is to enjoy your free time when you have it. You’ll miss it when you don’t have it.

Dash is a recent graduate of Marymount Manhattan College (2021) and is a 2017 graduate of Jericho High School. He would like to thank Meriam, his parents, as well as his friends and family for all their support. Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical plays through April 30, 2023, at Playhouse 46 at St. Luke’s (308 W. 46th Street). Tickets are $49 to $99 for all performances. A limited amount of VIP Bean Bag chairs are available for $149. All prices included $1.50 facility fee.

Weekly performance schedules vary. Visit StrangerSings.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

Alex Dash & Kaitlyn Meriam outside the Cultural Arts Playhouse in Syosset.

(Courtesy of Alex Dash)

Nassau County Police Introduce “Overwatch” Program

The move intends to increase police presence

JANET BURNS & JENNIFER CORR

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

On the morning of March 31, as excitement was brewing over the indictment of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Patrick Ryder, joined by police officers and local legislators, held a press conference outside of the Nassau County Police Department headquarters in Mineola.

Blakeman and Ryder were announcing that 20 police cars would be added to the NCPD’s daily patrols.

“We are sending two messages, one to the criminals, that this is not a place where it’s going to be opportune for you to commit a crime and to our residents, our businesses and visitors and our guests, that this is a safe county and we are going to keep it safe,” said Blakeman. “So we are on the offensive, and we are going to keep it proactive. We believe that this high visibility will deter crime and will harden important assets, such as our schools, religious institutions, our shopping centers and our communities.”

“Overwatch” nuts and bolts

“We believe this is just another tool for us to be out in the community, to be visible and to have resources available at a moments notice,” Blakeman said. “The way this is designed, there will be your usual reaction to any crime or any incident which may occur in any precinct. This will be an addition to that. This will be supplementing that, so that we have a large force available at any time. They will be 15 minutes away from any place in the county.”

Ryder explained that the Nassau County Police Department have separated the county into four quadrants, and plans to roll out teams of four uniformed police officers and a supervisor who know the local times of prayer, religious observations and holiday dates, school schedules and more. “They will roll through these areas with their lights on and will act as a presence,” Ryder said. “They will stop and say hello. They will move onto others. Sometimes they will double pass and triple pass. Constant and a regular patrol is how we offset what the bad guy is thinking.”

Each area of Nassau County that the

in every part of the county

heavily armed, semi-tactical police unit that appears out of thin air.” According to various news articles mentioning Hercules exercises, participating units oftened traveled in unmarked cars, and were known to pop up in public places with police canines and tactical gear.

In an article on the history of the NYPD’s post-9/11 counterterrorism work, City Journal explained in 2021, “The department has largely abandoned the Hercules exercises, which sent dozens of police vehicles and support cars to random spots in a display of force ... ‘I wanted the WOW factor,’ [former commissioner] Kelly explained.’”

What Nassau County officials have described about “Overwatch” so far makes it sound a bit different from this.

police department covers will receive equal attention, regardless of crime rates, according to police. For example, in Sea Cliff, as residents are complaining about an increase of stolen property and home break-ins, these patrols will be able to provide some additional police presence.

Lately, the trend in communities like Great Neck, Sea Cliff and Sands Point has been targeted thefts by organized theft rings, according to Ryder. He said this program could act as a deterrence. “Our job is to make sure that we continue to make this county safe, and it is a safe county,” Blakeman said. “But we have to go on the offensive and we have to be innovative and we have to be on the cutting edge and we have to stay ahead of the curve because we’re not getting any help from Albany, so we’re going to have to do it ourself in Nassau County.”

Ryder said that, prior to the press conference, the patrols had already began testing the new program, which became fully operational on April 1.

The launch of the program coincided with Ramadan, Passover, various Hindu and Sikh festivals and Easter, as well as the indictment of Trump. On April 1, when Florida Gov. Rob DeSantis made a stop at the Cradle of Aviation in Garden City for his book tour and campaign talk, as supporters of Trump and some critics rallied outside.

To wit: as soon as the opportunity for

questions arose at the NCPD press conference on March 31, journalists began asking Executive Blakeman for his thoughts on the current criminal case against former president Trump, a topic on which Blakeman was happy to oblige.

Pinning down purpose and avoiding overreach

According to police accountability advocates, questions do remain about the increased patrols program and exactly how it will be enacted and administered in our county.

For example, Blakeman stated during the press conference that Nassau’s “Overwatch” program would be similar to other programs rolled out around the country, and specifically said it would be modeled after the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) “Team Hercules” program.

Created soon after September 11, 2001 by then-NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly, “Team Hercules” exercises combined aspects of the NYPD’s large and varied Counterterrorism Bureau, which overlaps in some practices with its Special Operations Bureau (SOB), and with its Emergency Service Unit, a part of the SOB, whose vehicles include heavy equipment for doing things like clearing road obstructions and knocking down doors.

As the website Police1.com described it, the Hercules team is or was “an elite,

Both Blakeman and Ryder emphasized that the well-equipped teams would be “highly visible,” suggesting that patrol units will be marked cars in addition to having their lights on. Officials have also emphasized that, during the spring holiday season and the final months of school, Overwatch units will be regularly patrolling religious institutions and schools while also creating a crime-deterring presence in high-crime areas and low-crime areas in equal amounts.

In an interview with Anton Media Group, Susan Gottehrer, director of the Nassau chapter of the New York Civil Liberties Union, said it would be extremely helpful for organizations like hers and for Nassau communities to “get some clarity on what this is.”

“Firstly, if they’re talking about visibility and patrols, that makes me ask the question, are they staying in their cars, or getting out and interacting with the community? Secondly, what is this targeting, exactly? If you’re taking about protecting houses of worship over the holidays, that sounds more like guarding against a shooter situation. Or are you targeting break-ins, or shoplifting at the mall?”

“More importantly, we would want to know if [the department] has written documents establishing the parameters of this unit, the mission of this unit, and the goal of this unit. Any written document that establishes what they can and cannot do, and how will they be interacting with local police departments, and the District Attorney’s and NCPD’s gang units’ surveillance systems, and where, institutionally, this is housed.”

The Nassau County Police Department was contacted for follow-up questions and clarification on “Overwatch,” and did not respond by press time.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was joined by Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Patrick Ryder, county legislators and police officers.

(Photo by Jennifer Corr)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Chinese Cooking- Kung Pao Chicken with Sunnie Zhang

Sunnie will show participants at the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., how to make the most popular Chinese dish, Kung Pao chicken, which has a spicy, lychee flavor. It is a well known traditional dish both here and abroad. The cost is $3 per person. Registration is required. Visit jericholibrary.org.

Camps ‘R’ Us Syosset Open House Camps ‘R’ Us is an accredited, award-winning and affordable summer day camp for children ages three and up. Camp programs and activities feature sports, arts and crafts, gaming, gaga, dance, STEAM, swimming, special events, field trips and much more. Join Camp Directors for a fun, informative open house at Syosset Campus located at St. Edward Confessor School, 2 Teibrook Ave, Syosset. Discussions will include upcoming camp season,and participants will get to take a tour of the facilities and ask questions. General information session begins on the hour at 10 and 11 a.m. followed by a tour of the campus and a Q&A with the Camp Director.

SUNDAY, APRIL 16

Symphonic Pops of Long Island in Concert

At 2 p.m., the Symphonic Pops of Long Island in Concert will be taking place at Huntington High School, 188 Oakwood Road, Huntington. Joining the Pops will be special guests from the Huntington High School Strings. Suggested donation is $10. Children are free.

TUESDAY, APRIL 18

Virtual Program: Nicotine and Vaping Cessation

Having trouble quitting smoking or know a loved one who is struggling? Join Stony Brook Cancer Center health educators to learn about smoking cessation resources, second-hand smoke, the vaping epidemic and the dangerous effects it has on youth today. This program is held virtually from 12 to 1 p.m., brought to you by Nassau Libraries Health Share and is sponsored by Hillside Library. Sign up for the event, regardless of library

Xi (Joanna) Yang

Real Estate Salesperson

Syosset/Muttontown Office

7951 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY 516.677.0030, c.516.912.6298

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membership, at hillsidelibrary.info.

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

Ticket to Paradise will be shown at the Syosset Public Library Theater from 2 to 3:45 p.m. The plot of the movie is as follows: “Lily sends a message to her parents that she’s going to get married to a local she met while vacationing in Bali. The distraught and long-divorced parents (Julie Roberts and George Clooney) fly to Indonesia to hopefully derail their daughter’s impulsive plan. However, they should learn how to control their scathing animosity toward each other if they are to succeed with their own plan.” The movie is rated PG-13 and runs 104 minutes.

TUESDAY, APRIL 25,

Afternoon Book Discussion with Virtual Appearance by Author Lisa

Join Evelyn Hershkowitz, Readers’ Services Librarian at Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, for a special Afternoon Book

Discussion of the 2021 historical fiction novel, ETERNAL. This event will take place in-person at the library, including a live, virtual appearance by the author who will discuss the writing of ETERNAL , as well as introduce her newest 2023 release, LOYALTY. The Zoom link will also be provided on the Calendar of Events at syossetlibrary.org for those who wish to view the presentation virtually. In-person attendees will enjoy an exclusive, extended book discussion following the author’s Zoom visit.

ONGOING EVENTS:

Together With Tots Program

North Shore Synagogue, 83 Muttontown Eastwoods Road in Syosset, will be offering a dprogram for children from nine to 18 with creative music and movement, interactive activities, story time and social development. The program begins April 17 and will run from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. It will go on for seven weeks. For more information contact 516-921-2282.

U.S. Citizen Examination Preparation

Community Church in Syosset, 36 Church St., will be offering U.S. Citizen Examination preparation classes, as well as English language instruction starting Monday, April 17. The classes will take place on Mondays at 6 p.m. For more information, call 516921-2240 or email ucc.syosset@aol.com. The fee is $10.

Brookville, NY — Make Memories That Will Last a Lifetime

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Judith Marino

Real

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7951 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY 516.677.0030, c.516.353.6223

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Symphonic Pops of Long Island in Concert at Huntington High School on Sunday, April

$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.

In The Loop For Over 100 Years

Local company takes sock waste, makes craft kits

Chances are the products of Wool Novelty Co. are familiar: a square metal loom and a bag of stretchy fabric loops dyed in an array of colors. These two simple ingredients are combined to create an almost endless variety of woven squares, which are often used as potholders. The loops can also be used to make bracelets, belts, and handbags. The neon nylon loops are often used by soldiers to mark their targets. They are a staple of summer camps and rainy days, and the finished potholders often hang in the kitchens of proud parents.

Wool Novelty, started in 1917, is based out of Bethpage, N.Y. and manufactured in High Point, NC. The company ships out about 200,000 pounds of cotton and nylon loops, around 200 million loops every year. The loops are dyed 300 pounds at a time in the manufacturing facility in North Carolina. Both the looms and loops are made in the United States.

The company originally produced a product called Wool Foam, which was a specially formulated laundry detergent for wool and other delicate fabrics. This led to a connection with the hosiery manufacturers, and a business opportunity recycling the loops into something useable.

The loops come from the toe end of socks and tights. When a sock is mass manufactured, a long, continuous tube of fabric is knit on a circular knitting machine. As the length of each sock is completed, it is closed at the toe with a stitch. This creates loops of waste, which Wool Novelty was able to purchase and repurpose.

“A hosiery mill, when they make your sock or, or whatever, then that’s where they cut it off and the loop gets sucked into a machine with the strings and the garbage from the hosiery mill. We buy their garbage from them. We sort it, dry it and package it. So in a sense, we’re actually recycling their garbage to make these loops,” said Jason Stessel, the great-grandson of the founder. He runs the company along with his sister, Sara Ardilla. Their mother, Robin Stessel, owns the company.

To use the loom, loops are stretched from one side to the other and anchored on pegs. These loops will form the warp. Other loops are the weft. They are anchored on the crosswise pegs and then passed over and under these base loops to create a tight fabric. The pattern created by the colors varies depending on where they go over and under the other loops. The kits are a great way to begin exploring weaving and color play.

Many of the loops are made from nylon, which is especially receptive to brighter colored dyes. Stessel remembers having a conversation with his grandfather about the loops as a kid. “I remember in the ‘80s telling my grandfather that everything’s turning fluorescent and he should try neon colors, and (then) he came out with hot loops.” These bags of extra bright loops are still available.

While the kits are marketed to children, adults also enjoy the smallscale, relaxing activity. Stessel said that they often receive samples from craft groups on Facebook. He has some of his favorites hanging in his workspace. His sister also uses the loops in her handicrafts. “My sister loves to play with them. She makes flip flops and little handbag,” Stessel said.

These kits are available on the Wool Novelty website at www.woolnovelty. com or in person at their storefront at 429 N. Wantaugh Ave. in Bethpage.

Headband Instructions from Wool Novelty Co.

Nylon loops are machine washable in cool water, and machine dry-able at low temperature.

Materials – Loops

Make Hand Chains

Hold up hand, palm facing you.

Twist loop back and forth over each finger. With new color loop, repeat Step 1. Starting with finger #1, lift lower from back of finger over upper loop and top of finger. Repeat with each finger in turn.

With new color loop, repeat Steps 2 and 3. Continue to repeat until small “chain” is formed in palm of hand. Tug gently on first loop to begin to stretch chain. It takes about 5 or 6 loops through last loop on finger #1, then #2 etc., to join chain into a circle. Knot ends together to secure.

Make Hand Chain Belts

Measure waist. Double length for double wrapped belt and add 36 inches to this measurement to allow for 18 inch ties. Make hand chain in desired pattern for length needed. Tie loops at each end to secure and slip ends through back of chains on wrong side of belt.

Potholders made with Wool Novelty Co. Loop and Loom kit.

(Photo by Amanda Olsen)

Craft kits and loop refills offered by Wool Novelty Co. (Photo by Wool Novelty Company)

The warp and the weft of a piece of woven fabric. (Illustration By Alfred Barlow. CC BY-SA 3.0,)

A vintage box of WoolFoam (top shelf) and vintage editions of the Loom kit (middle shelf, back). (Photo by Wool Novelty Company)

DeSantis, Protesters Visit Garden City

Florida governor draws press, police, various demonstrators

JANET BURNS

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

On April 1, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis spoke at an event in Garden City, bringing out supporters, critics, journalists, and Nassau County police.

Speaking at the Cradle of Aviation Museum before roughly 200 attendees, journalists, and fellow electeds, DeSantis weighed in on numerous political topics ranging from COVID to criminal justice for about an hour during the free event, entitled “The Florida Blueprint.”

At the Garden City event as well as an event earlier that day in Pennsylvania, DeSantis was reportedly on the road promoting his book, The Courage to be Free: Florida’s Blueprint for America’s Revival.

Addressing charges against former President Donald Trump brought by New York County’s Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, DeSantis said, “This guy is doing politics.”

Local politician and former gubernatorial candidate Lee Zeldin helped introduce DeSantis at the event, calling DeSantis the

greatest governor in the country. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman also spoke before DeSantis, telling the crowd, “We want you to give him such an applause,” and, “God bless Governor DeSantis.”

While DeSantis, Zeldin, and Blakeman have all generally shown public support for Trump, supporters of the former president also came out to the event seemingly to mock or criticize DeSantis, a fellow Republican and would-be presidential nominee.

During DeSantis’ speech, multiple Trump supporters vocalized their disapproval, including one man who was removed from the free event after chanting “Trump!”

A few dozen Trump supporters also protested and/or rallied outside the Cradle of Aviation Museum after a car caravan to the location, bringing along scores of flags between them.

Around ten counter-protesters were also present, holding signs indicating their criticism of both Trump and DeSantis, and voicing support for marginalized groups who have been targeted by their policies, including the LGBTQ community.

Before the 7:00 p.m. event began, Nassau County Police Department officers watched over the protest groups from security barricades, from a sniper setup on the roof of the museum, and using at least one drone.

Police with a tripod-mounted scope and rifle watch the scene from the roof of the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City on April 1, 2023.

Demonstrators brought signs criticizing the policies and positions of both DeSantis and Trump, which have targeted LGBTQ and migrant communities, among others. (Photos: Bruce Levy)

Multiple vehicles outfitted with dozens of large flags, and/or hand-written political views and theories, drove to the Cradle of Aviation Museum in support of former president Donald Trump, a potential political rival of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Protesters and police stood outside the Cradle of Aviation Museum in mild weather ahead of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ free event.

New Hour For Women And Children Call On The NYS Legislature To Reject Changes To Bail Reform

Governor Hochul has continued to pressure the Legislature to make ill-informed and nonsensical rollbacks to bail reform that will disproportionately harm Black and brown communities. In response to the Governor’s actions, Serena Martin-Liguori, Executive Director of New Hour for Women and Children, released the following statement: “The New York State

Legislature has a duty to reject the unconscionable and morally wrong-minded proposed amendments to New York’s bail law in the upcoming budget. The Governor is plainly and openly playing politics. The data presents a clear conclusion: bail reform is working. If the Governor and State Legislature give in to the racist demands of ill-intentioned opponents to the policy,

OPED COLUMNS

they will undermine years of progress and reinstate extraordinarily, unprecedented punitive measures which target New York’s poorest women, mothers and families. The Governor’s proposal to remove the “least restrictive ” standard from our law goes far beyond altering bail reform. It fundamentally changes the definition of bail, and is likely unconstitutional. If these

Post-Disagreement Reflection

Taking some time to reflect after a disagreement can help both you and your partner learn and grow. Consider a hypothetical couple, Jerry and Rita, who have been married for 10 years. They recently had a fight about the influence of Jerry’s parents on their family decisions. The fight started out as a heated discussion and quickly escalated, both saying some extremely hurtful things. Doors were slammed, accusations were made, and it took them several days to cool off. After this time, they apologized, directly addressed the issue, and agreed to never let it get to that point again. Rita noted that the two of them should discuss the fight and how it escalated, but Jerry said that they should just steer clear, not wanting to go back to that bad place. Rita noted that by reflecting on what went wrong they would be able to address more than the in-law issue. They would also be able to discuss their ability to communicate with one another in a calm and effective manner.

In this case Rita has suggested time to reflect on their conversation post-fight. The researchers at the Gottman Institute, which focuses on love and relationships, note that having a dialogue in the aftermath of a fight is important to get at any underlying issues. For Rita and Jerry, these issues may be the way in which they express their frustration with one another and how they communicate.

Below are some helpful tips for your post-disagreement reflection:

LOVE LESSONS

Marisa T. Cohen, PhD

Make a promise not to reignite issues that have already been resolved.

The goal of your post-disagreement reflection is to examine how the conversation escalated into a full-blown fight, not to rehash issues that were already resolved. If, and only if you feel that the content of the argument (in the case of Jerry and Rita, the influence of Jerry’s parents) has been resolved, make a promise not to revisit that issue. If they get caught up in the details again or rehash their initial positions, they will never get to the point of discussing their communication with one another.

Express emotions and validate one another.

It is important for each partner to express the emotions they experienced when things started to get heated. This will allow them to indicate what actions or words were most hurtful to them and clearly communicate their boundaries. Each partner should validate the other. This doesn’t mean that you agree with what your partner is expressing, but that you acknowledge and accept

reforms pass, New York will be subjected to a lawsuit that they will likely use.

For the sake of our Black and brown mothers, sisters and children, the most vulnerable among us, and every taxpayer of New York, the Legislature must resoundingly reject these changes.”

—Submitted by New Hour for Women and Children

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

Publishers of Glen Cove/Oyster Bay Record Pilot

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their view. This is important for each partner to feel heard and to build a shared understanding. Jerry and Rita should discuss what felt most hurtful and actively listen to one another.

Create a plan. Come up with a plan for when disagreements take a similar turn in the future. For each couple this is different. Perhaps a code word would be helpful, indicating that you need a break. Others may choose to infuse humor into their discussion. Some people may

choose to write a list of all the things they agree on, highlighting where their views are similar rather than different. This may take some trial and error, but by having a plan, you can put it into place in the future.

Looking back at your arguments and how they escalated can help partners have a better understanding of how to communicate with one another more effectively. Additionally, it can assist them in being more aware of their partner’s boundaries and needs.

Linda Baccoli

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COLUMNS

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!

When Christians celebrate Christmas there is some sentiment in the song, “Please come home for Christmas.” There are a lot of warm and feel-good moments about being together at that time of the year. Easter has the opposite vibe, if we take it seriously. Easter is about going, not coming. Sure, families gather at church, at home or perhaps have an Easter dinner out together. There are little traditions like decorating eggs or sharing goodies in Easter baskets. But the main thrust of Easter and its fifty days are really about going.

We get this direction from Jesus himself in the gospel we hear this year. In Matthew’s version of the Resurrection, women go to the tomb to find it empty and as they leave they meet the risen Jesus who tells them to “Go!” They are to go to the other disciples to tell them to meet Jesus in Galilee. And when Jesus meets up with the others he also commands them to “Go! Make disciples.”

If they hadn‘t gone to do what he urged them to do, no one today would have heard of Jesus, much less believed in him. For me the modern question is whether this

THE SPIRIT OF OUR TOWN

command of Jesus was only for those folks back then or is it for believers now? If we believe Jesus’ desire to speak the good news of God is something we ought to be about today, then Easter really is about our going.

Perhaps we could think of whom God would want us to go to. Do you know someone who is ill – perhaps still suffering long term effects of covid or some other ailment? Who do you know who is suffering from depression, or addiction, or joblessness, or abuse, or loneliness? Can you hear God speaking in your heart: “Go! That person needs my love and I’m sending it through you.”

Some people might resist this Easter prodding because they don’t consider themselves religious. Yet if you know the story of Jesus you’ll remember that he didn’t pick priests or ministers or nuns to send out in mission. It was the ordinary folks – like fishermen or the ordinary women who followed him. These were people who were raising families, who were taking care of whatever trade they plied. And so it is today: if you’re an ordinary person, you’re exactly who God is looking for to go forth and bring God’s good news to those around you.

The means by which we can bring the Easter message of new hope to others during these fifty days are varied. A cake. (That’s a delicious way to show love and concern.) A text. (Not as delicious but compared to our frivolous texting, deliberate texts of care and affirmation can really be transformative.) Sharing our own experiences and how we got beyond distressful moments can also help, especially if we got past our heartaches and disappointments with God’s help. Ask God to help you figure out the best way to reach out. And get ready, get set and go!

Have you been to a sporting event lately or maybe you attended your child’s school assembly? Both events have the same thing in common: they began with the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance. Stop for a moment and remember the last few lines of that hallowed practice. The declaration ends with the words “with liberty and justice for all.” Those few words, and the ones before it, are what makes this nation so great. We enjoy freedoms that few countries enjoy and it is good to be reminded about it from time to time.

At this very moment, a Wall Street Journal reporter is sitting in a Russian jail charged with espionage for writing about the oppressive conduct of a vicious dictator. In the weeks ahead, he will get a show trial and then probably be sentenced to 20 years in prison. He will be joining dozens of other prisoners whose only guilt is that they happened to be in Russia at the time it was run by a monster

leader. There is no Pledge of Allegiance in Russia, because everyone is assumed to follow the leader or else.

The picture I described of the American journalist in Russia is being duplicated in Iran, China, Turkey, Venezuela and the Philippines. Billions of people live in those countries without the ability to speak their minds

and enjoy the privileges that we Americans benefit from.

At this very moment, the former President of the United States stands accused of various crimes in a court of law. I am not going to render any opinion on his guilt or innocence, as that is for a judge and jury to decide. But I know that Mr. Trump will be entitled to the same protections that any ordinary American citizen is entitled to, which is a fair trial. His judge will not be an employee of the Kremlin and every court procedure contained in New York’s penal law will be followed to the letter of the law. The charges may be dismissed or if there is ever a trial one of the jurors may be one of your neighbors and that person will have sworn to follow the law as dictated by our Constitution.

Mr. Trump will complain bitterly about the judicial process and will rant and rave against the sitting judge. He will use slurs against the District Attorney and claim that this

case, like the cases to come, are a “witch hunt.” Win or lose, Mr. Trump is a very lucky man. He will stand before the bar of justice in a country that dispenses justice fairly and equally. The

Fr. Ralph Sommer

next time you recite the Pledge of Allegiance, take a deep breath and remember that there is a justice system in America that no other country can lay claim to.

Jerry Kremer INSIDE POLITICS

Protesters at Collect Pond Park.

(Photo by SWinxy, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

HOME & DESIGN

Navigating Rental Scams

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection announced the release of a comprehensive guide with practical tips to help New Yorkers identify and avoid rental scams. In 2022, the FBI received 11,727 real estate/rental scam related complaints with losses of over $396 million, an 86 percent increase compared to 2020.

“In today’s highly competitive housing market, renters are often targeted by scammers who use enticing offers to steal their hard-earned money,” Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said. “Finding a place to live can be stressful enough without the added worry of being scammed, so I encourage New Yorkers to follow our tips and learn how to spot a potential scam when looking for a new residence.”

Looking for a rental home or apartment can be an expensive and time-consuming process, and as the cost of living continues to increase rental scams are becoming even more prevalent. Rental scams do not just harm renters, they can severely damage the reputations and livelihoods of New York’s honest, hardworking real estate agents.

To prevent a costly mistake, below are key tips on how to identify and avoid rental scams:

• Confirm that the rental listing is legitimate and verify the source of the listing.

• Verify the identity of any real estate professional.

• Inspect the premises.

• Be suspicious if asked to use payment methods that are untraceable.

• Request everything in writing.

• Don’t give in to high-pressure sales tactics.

• Protect your privacy.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding state holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www. dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.

—New York Department of State Division of Consumer Protection

Recently Sold HOMES

This lovely and meticulously maintained five-bedroom house at 59 7th Street in Garden City Park sold on March 22 for $910,000. This Colonial situated on an oversized lot boasts a living room, eat-in-kitchen, formal dining room, a 28’x28’ large family room with a 10-foot ceiling and wood burning fireplace perfect for entertaining. It has three bathrooms. The spacious and serene backyard offers endless possibilities with three water features and a patio area.

This brand new, custom-built Colonial at 5 Yorkshire Rd. in Garden City Park sold on March 27 for $1,500,000. It featured great attention to details with Andersen windows, hardwood floors and high ceiling throughout the house. The front yard features a metal-gated patio with view of Park Circle. The first level features a large living room, dining room, one bedroom and a bathroom. The open-concept kitchen has stainless steel appliances, gas stove cooking, French doors that open to the backyard and a mud room with a sink. The second level features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a laundry room. A separate side entrance leads to the finished basement complete with an egress window, boiler room and a full bathroom. The backyard is fenced in. The private driveway leads to a detached garage. This home is near Jericho Turnpike shopping, restaurants and transportation. It is located in the Herricks School District.

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More Than A Video Game

Long Islanders develop customizable, interactive football video game

JENNIFER CORR

aymond Milian and LeMont Joyner are virtual champions of the football video game Madden NFL . And together, they are using their skills, and what they’ve learned over the years, to create a game called Elite Sports Gaming Football 23 that will truly immerse players into the life of their character.

Milian, who grew up in Coram, and Joyner, a Hofstra University graduate, are both considered professional Madden players, with both being considered some of the best in the world when it comes to sport gaming. Joyner also found success in creating a successful YouTube channel called “Clutch,” amassing more than 500,000 followers online with approximately 120 million views. Milian is a graduate of the Flatiron School of Coding in Manhattan and Joyner, a graduate of law school, is a practicing corporate attorney in New York City.

“I met my co-founder ironically just standing in line next to one-another at one of the biggest gaming tournaments at the time,” Milian said. “Him and I were both novice gamers, essentially aspiring to do a little bit more within the space, and of course, e-sports at the time was still in its expansion... Fortunately for me, I was one of the first people to sign a professional Madden deal where I was paid to travel around the country and the world to compete in the video game.”

Milian also had served as a video game tester.

But Milian’s life was changed in 2018 when he was competing in a Madden tournament in Jacksonville, Florida. During

the tournament, one of the participants of the tournament, after losing a game and leaving the tournament, returned and shot and killed two people and injured 10 others, and then took his own life.

“Two of my friends were killed and 10 of my friends were shot,” Milian said. “Essentially,

XBox, Playstation and PC that will release this year. It is the first social platform to exist within a video game series.

It’s a much more immersive experience.”

called GameBreakers , which profiles streamers, personalities and e-sport pros in the gaming world. And in December 2022, Milian and LeMont, under their LLC, Elite Sports Gaming, announced they were going to create their first game.

It will be an online and multiplayer “11 versus 11” and “7 versus 7” football game for

“If you were to play a football video game, something like Madden , the way it works typically is even though there are 22 players on the field, it really is like Chess, where if I play against you it’s really one against one,” Milian explained. “Whereas in our video game, our game is the first ever ‘11 versus 11’ with all the people on the field actually being real gamers, so it’s 22 people playing at the same time.

And each player on the field being controlled by a gamer behind the screen is not the end of the immersive experience when it comes to this game.

It’s similar to the video game series NBA 2K where players

with their character, will have the ability to explore the city of “The Height,” based on all five boroughs of New York City, and be able to link up with their friends, train their character, go shopping and customize their character and go to the gym, play mini-games and, of course, hop into the football action. In the future, Milian and LeMont plan to expand this concept to other sports like hockey and soccer.

“The great thing about the game that we’re creating is that because this game is based so heavily on personal likeness, what we then do is bring artificial intelligence characters into our game so that gamers can play with them,” Milian explained. “This is where influencers can monetize on the back end.”

Influencers are people who have gained a following online, and they often monetize, or make money, off of advertising products, using their likeness to sell a product or talking about their sponsorships in their videos or podcasts. In this game, they can upload their likeness into the game and make money when people interact with their character.

express their creativity through different beards and hairstyles, all the way to working with brands,” Milian said. “You can have Nike, Reebok and Adidas in the actual game. But being that this is a sports game is grinding the character, making them better day in day out.”

Essentially, in Elite Sports Gaming Football 23, players,

When it comes to video games this concept is not new, however. In the game Fortnite, which has a younger audience, DJ Marshmello and hip hop artist Travis Scott were animated into the game and were able to host a concert that all the players could attend. Marshmello amassed an additional million followers within 48 hours of doing the concert. Travis Scott made over $20 million by doing this event.

“We’ve been really fortunate to have a bunch of pro-athletes come on board and influencers,” Milian said.

To watch the trailer for Elite Sports Gaming Football 23, visit www.youtube.com/@playesg/ featured.

(Photo courtesy Elite Sports Gaming)

UPCOMING EVENT

Long Island Cars Super Swap Sunday April 16

Long Island Cars will present their “Super Swap Sunday” Car Show and Swap Meet on Sunday April 16th at Flowerfield Fairgrounds off Route 25A in Saint James.

Flowerfield Fairgrounds, once a turn of the century flower farm, will be filled with classic and collectible automobiles including show cars from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, one-of-a-kind custom cars, antiques, exotics, street rods, muscle cars and imports. Show cars will be competing in classed judging with trophies. The event will also include Long Island Cars signature swap meet with well stocked vendors offering older parts, literature, accessories and collectibles for swap and sale. If you are looking for those rare car parts to complete your custom or collectible car, this is the event you’ll find them. If you are looking to buy a dream car, check out the car for sale section where owners will be selling cars directly to the public. You’ll experience live music by “The Fugitives”, fun fair food and more. Flowerfield Fairgrounds is located on Parkside Drive off Route 25A in St. James. LI.E. 62 North, take Nicolls Rd (Rte 97) North to the end, make a left /west on Route 25A for 2 miles (GPS coordinates: Parkside Dr., Saint James 11780).

8 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain date: April 23rd. Admission: $10.00; 12 years and under are free; free parking. Show or sell your collectible car with admission. Judged cars and vendors register at the gate between 7a.m. and 10 a.m. (631)567-5898 or LongIslandCars. com.

—Submitted by Long Island Cars

Cars And Guitars Returns To Commack

The 7th Annual Cars and Guitars Classic Car Show and Fundraiser. hosted by East to West Classic Cars, is set for Sunday, April 23.

The car show and concert are held outside at the Miller’s Ale House at 88 Veterans Memorial Hwy, in Commack. This free, family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and features over 700 cars of all varieties, live music by Special Guests, BBQ food truck, raffle prizes and more.

The show is rain or shine with a $15 registration fee for cars, which can be made the day of the event. The first 100 entries receive a gift bag.

“Thank you to everyone who assists with the Cars and Guitars Classic Car Show and Fundraiser each year,” said Dean Nichol president of East to West

Classic Cars. “Your commitment to our veterans is 100 percent!”

The goal of the event is to raise awareness for PTSD and funds for Hope For The Warriors, a national nonprofit that provides comprehensive services that support the well-being of post- 9/11 veterans and active- duty, military families and caregivers and families of the fallen.

“The East to West Classic Car Show and Fundraiser is a favorite Long Island event of ours each year! From the volunteers, the participants to the entire Long Island community, we’re blown away each year,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors. Last year’s event was larger than ever coming off the heels of the pandemic everyone was in great spirits.”

Since its inception, Hope For The

Parkinson’s Foundation Launches #Take6forPD Campaign

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

The Parkinson’s Foundation brings Parkinson’s disease (PD) to the forefront with the launch of a new awareness campaign, #Take6forPD. April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and efforts to raise awareness and funds are part of the Foundation’s mission to make life better for people with PD, their loved ones and those working toward a cure.

“Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with Parkinson’s disease, and by 2030, the number is expected to reach 1.2 million,” said Parkinson’s Foundation President and CEO John L. Lehr. “The Parkinson’s Foundation raises awareness year-round about the early signs of PD and provides resources to support those newly diagnosed.”

A recent study found that the annual incidence of PD increased from 60,000 to 90,000 diagnoses annually, meaning that someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with PD every six minutes. This April, the Foundation

is encouraging everyone to #Take6forPD by highlighting action steps anyone can take in six minutes— the time it takes to make a cup of coffee—to advance research, improve access to care, empower and educate.

Advancing Research

In support of PD research, patrons can help the Foundation’s efforts to improve treatments and find a cure for the disease by participating in PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease, supporting drug discovery through the Parkinson’s Virtual Biotech, joining a research study and more.

Improving Access to Care

Research shows that seeing a PD specialist leads to better outcomes for individuals with the disease. Raising awareness for the Foundation’s care resources,

including a Helpline with support in English and Spanish, an ‘In Your Area’ resource map to find expert care, and an Aware in Care hospital safety kit, helps ensure that one day, every person with PD has equitable access to high-quality care.

Helping Empower & Educate

While living with PD can be challenging, many things can be done to maintain and improve quality of life, which often starts by enhancing one’s own awareness of available resources. Supporters can spread the word on social media with a PD infographic,

register for an educational event, listen to the Foundation’s podcast, and more.

“Parkinson’s can affect anyone, including those under the age of 50, so I wish for people with PD from all walks of life to gain hope from knowing that no gesture for Parkinson’s Awareness Month is too small,” said Vikas Chinnan, member of the Parkinson’s Foundation People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council. “Driven by my experience living with Young-Onset Parkinson’s disease, my passion is to raise awareness of the lesser-known, nonmotor symptoms—like depression and apathy—which can significantly impact mental well-being.”

To learn more about the #Take6forPD campaign, visit Parkinson.org/Awareness or call 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).

—Parkinson’s Foundation

ASK AN HSS DOCTOR

Sponsored by Hospital for Special Surgery

QI’m experiencing shoulder pain, and an MRI shows I have a rotator cuff tear. The orthopedic surgeon I saw recommends surgery, and I plan to get a second opinion. How is it usually treated and when is surgery needed?

AA torn rotator cuff is a common shoulder problem, and MRIs are very reliable in showing the extent of the injury. It’s usually a good idea to get a second opinion when surgery is recommended.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the joint. A tear in one of these structures can result from a sudden injury, such as a bad fall or from lifting something very heavy overhead.

Many times, people can’t recall a specific incident in which they hurt their shoulder. The injury can occur slowly over time, resulting from normal wear and tear and repetitive activities. This type of degenerative tear is more common, especially in people over age 50.

A significant number of older adults likely have a small rotator cuff tear but don’t know it because they aren’t experiencing major symptoms. They may experience occasional pain and some minor weakness and are advised to avoid strenuous overhead activities, which could make it worse.

When symptoms become more pronounced, people can experience an aching shoulder, pain at night, or “referred” pain that travels down the outside of their arm, usually not below their elbow. They may find it difficult to lift their arm above shoulder level.

Most rotator cuff tears can be treated initially without surgery, especially when it’s a degenerative tear. At HSS, we generally prescribe physical therapy, ice and anti-inflammatory medication as the first line of treatment.

When the tear is the result of a sudden injury, early surgical intervention is more likely to be considered. The orthopedic surgeon should evaluate each case on an individual basis. Considerations include the nature of the injury and whether it is a partial or a complete tear; the age of the patient; and specific symptoms. If someone tries conservative treatments and continues to have pain and difficulty with activities after two or three months, surgery may be the best option.

There have been advances in the way the procedure is performed. At HSS, the rotator cuff is repaired arthroscopically using regional anesthesia. The success rate is high in terms of pain relief, restoring shoulder movement and improving quality of life. The recovery generally takes four to six months, and patients continue to gain strength and function for up to a year.

Physicians differ in their training and surgical techniques. Patients are advised to choose an orthopedic surgeon who performs a high number of rotator cuff procedures, can communicate effectively and with whom they feel comfortable.

Answer from Answorth Allen, MD, a sports medicine surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City and at HSS Long Island.

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Autism Speaks Pledges To Make World Of Difference

Autism prevalence rises in U.S. children

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released its update of autism’s estimated prevalence among the nation’s children. It is based on the active surveillance across 11 monitoring sites in the United States for eightyear-old children in 2020. The new report shows an increase in prevalence with 1 in 36 children, or more than 2.7 percent of eightyear-old children, diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2020, and for the first time reveals higher prevalence rates among Black non-Hispanic (BNH), Hispanic, and Asian or Pacific Islander (A/PI) children compared to White non-Hispanic (WNH) children.

The increase reinforces progress in awareness and advocacy for early identification and diagnosis among all groups. It reiterates the need for a significant increase in funding for autism research and services to be provided across the spectrum and lifespan, particularly in diverse communities where prevalence numbers were greater than those indicated by previous studies

Key findings include:

One in 36 children, or over 2.7 percent of eight-year-old children, in the U.S. was diagnosed with ASD in 2020, increasing from 2018 when the estimate was 1 in 44.

The rate of autism per 1000 was higher in BNH (29.3), Hispanic (31.6), and A/PI (33.4) compared to WNH children (24.3), indicating an improvement in outreach, screenings and de-stigmatization of autism diagnosis among minority communities.

BNH autistic children were more likely than WNH and Hispanic autistic children to have a co-occurring intellectual disability. Autistic girls were also more likely to have a co-occurring intellectual disability when compared to autistic boys. Both findings indicate an undercounting of autism among BNH and female children, highlighting the need for greater research on the age at which BNH children and girls without intellectual disabilities receive autism evaluations and diagnoses.

The COVID-19 pandemic limited data collection, potentially leading to an under-reporting of prevalence and reinforcing

the need to explore long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on evaluation and diagnosis of autism.

The CDC findings strengthen Autism Speaks’ commitment to creating a more inclusive world for all individuals with autism and to addressing disparities that exist among different races and ethnic communities through investments in research and programs, such as Autism Speaks’ Autism Care Network, Caregiver Training Program and community events, which increase family and clinician access to innovative tools for identifying autism and understanding what children are experiencing.

“With 2.7 percent of children in the U.S. being diagnosed with autism, the autism community needs our support now more than ever,” said Keith Wargo, president & CEO of Autism Speaks. “We continue to prioritize advocacy and research efforts with the goal of supporting people across the spectrum, at all stages of life and in communities around the world, but we call on the public to recognize the growing need for services and for unity in order to achieve a more inclusive world. Together, we can make a world of difference for all people with autism.”

This World Autism Month, Autism Speaks asks everyone to demonstrate that they are standing with the autistic community, celebrating differences and including people with autism in all aspects of society. Supporters can request information, resources and tools to engage and advocate in their community, as well as learn about the mission delivery progress at Autism Speaks, in order to create a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential.

Learn more about Autism Speaks and World Autism Month at autismspeaks. org/wam. To join the conversation, find @ autismspeaks on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. For personalized support and questions, contact the Autism Response Team at 1-888-AUTISM2, en Español at 1-888-772-9050 or by email at help@ autismspeaks.org

—Autism Speaks

A Complete Parkinson’s Diet Guide

When living with Parkinson’s, diet can help you stay healthy and may help with some of the symptoms. Eating a healthy diet will lead you to not only feel better but will also lead to more likely living a longer and fuller life.

It is important to say that the only evidence-based diets that are shown to be good for Parkinson’s are general healthy diets that work for everyone regardless of Parkinson’s. The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest diets out there, which is why we recommend it to those with Parkinson’s.

Mediterranean Diet

A Mediterranean diet for those with Parkinson’s disease is recommended because it is generally considered to be one of the healthiest diets you can follow. This diet is based on food that was traditionally

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eaten in Italy, Greece, and other Mediterranean countries.

This diet can be summarized into three categories: foods you should eat (often, moderately, and rarely).

Foods you should try to incorporate into your diet as often as you can:

• Fruits

• Whole Grains

• Nuts

• Plant based foods

• Vegetables

• Seeds

• Olive Oil

Foods that could also be added moderately into your diet and some that could be added daily:

• Seafood • Dairy

• Chicken/turkey • Eggs

Foods that should rarely make it onto your plate and should be reserved for special occasions:

• Red meat

• Sweets like cookies or candy

Foods to avoid when on a Parkinson’s diet: While eating a Mediterranean diet can help with Parkinson’s, you need to make sure you are also avoiding the foods and fad diets that are detrimental to your health and may exacerbate your Parkinson’s symptoms.

• Foods high in saturated fats • Processed foods

• Large amounts of protein

• Iron may reduce the amount of PD medication being absorbed

• High citrus juices like orange juice

• Sugary foods and drinks • Large amounts of alcohol

• Hard to chew foods

Fad diets to avoid or be skeptical of:

There are many fad diets out there that someone with Parkinson’s should be skeptical of, such as the Caveman diet, Carnivore diet, Whole30 diet and many more. While these new diets claim to be the best thing since sliced

bread, many of them are unsustainable and not healthy for you in the long run.

Something else to watch out for are diets specific for Parkinson’s. That’s right, you are reading a Parkinson’s diet blog warning you of the dangers of Parkinson’s specific diets. We do this because there are a lot of small studies out their claiming a specific food or nutrient will help with your Parkinson’s while the truth is that there really isn’t any strong evidence for any of it. Worse yet, some of these foods or nutrients when taken in excess quantities can do more harm than good. The only real evidence-based diets that are shown to be good for Parkinson’s are general healthy diets that work for everyone regardless of Parkinson’s. The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest diets out there, which is why we recommend it to those with Parkinson’s.

A Healthy Parkinson’s diet

While the Mediterranean diet may help people with Parkinson’s, it is important to remember that you need to focus on your whole diet and not just a small part of it. Eating healthy in general and making smart dietary decisions is what will make the difference for your overall health and well-being.

A few healthy diet tips are below:

• Reduce sugar intake

• Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and grains

• Eat foods high in fiber

• Drink lots of water

• Avoid consuming saturated fat and cholesterol

• Consume alcohol in moderation

Talk to your doctor about setting up the best diet for you.

—Zach Galati for Parkinson Foundation

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Lending A Hand

Use of robotic arm enables pinpoint accuracy during spine surgery

Severe, ongoing back pain can be debilitating. Some conditions can affect one’s ability to walk or carry out basic activities. Amanda Murdolo started experiencing that kind of pain a few years ago and, by the time she saw a doctor at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), she could barely walk for 10 minutes without having to stop.

“I couldn’t do much physical activity,” recalled Murdolo, now 24 years old. “Simple tasks like standing and doing dishes became painful. At times it felt like someone was pulling both ends of the nerve in my left leg really tight.”

After seeing several doctors, Murdolo, a graduate student who lives on Long Island, was referred to Darren Lebl, MD, a spine surgeon at HSS who practices in both Manhattan and at HSS Long Island in Uniondale. Around the time she saw Lebl, he had just completed his 100th minimally invasive, robotic-assisted spine surgery.

The robotic system would be used in Murdolo’s surgery to correct a spinal condition called spondylolisthesis, which causes one of the lower vertebrae of

the spine to slip forward onto the bone directly beneath it. This was putting pressure on a nerve.

Since the pandemic was a concern in 2020, Murdolo had her first consultation with Lebl remotely. After she felt comfortable talking to him, she went to his office for an examination, an explanation of her condition and what surgery would entail. He explained that he performed the procedure with assistance from a robotic arm, which allowed for an ultraprecise surgery.

“Over the past few years, advances in surgical technique and technology have enhanced the accuracy and predictability of spinal surgeries, and patients like Amanda benefit,” said Lebl. “Advances such as computer navigation, 3D imaging and robotic-assisted surgery have been tremendous in terms of allowing us to do less invasive, yet more precise surgeries.”

The use of very small incisions preserves muscles and other structures surrounding the spine, so patients generally experience less pain after surgery, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to activities compared to traditional open

surgery, he explained.

Murdolo had a spinal fusion in December 2020.

“A ver tabra in her lower spine had shifted or ‘slipped’ forward, causing impinge ment on a nerve root,” Lebl explained. “Through a minimally invasive technique, we were able to realign her spine and take the pressure off the nerve to relieve her pain.”

Lebl uses the robotic system to treat the condition that Murdolo had, as well as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or scoliosis. Prior to surgery, detailed images of the patient’s anatomy are obtained to plan and customize the proce dure. Preoperative CT and Dr. Lebl with the robotic system

Tracy-Ann Moo, MD Breast Surgical Oncologist MSK in Nassau

MRI scans create a three-dimensional map of the patient’s spine that is used during surgery. Lebl performs the procedure with small incisions and robotic guidance, always maintaining full control. Visualization of the surgical field is provided by a computer console that displays the high-definition 3D image of the patient’s anatomy in real time.

Many spine surgeries, including Murdolo’s, require the use of hardware such as titanium screws to stabilize the spine, and their accurate placement is critical to the success of the surgery.

“The robotic arm, along with 3D imaging and navigation technology similar to GPS, allow for pinpoint accuracy in the placement of hardware, and this is a major advantage of the system,” Lebl said.

Murdolo said the thought of having spine surgery was a frightening prospect. It would be the first surgery she ever had, and she was worried about pain. But it was never an issue.

“I was very surprised at how little pain I had after surgery,” Murdolo said, who had the procedure on a Friday and went home on Monday. She has been painfree since the surgery and looks forward to receiving her Doctor of Audiology degree in 2024.

Lebl notes that the use of robotics in minimally invasive spine surgery requires special training and advises patients to choose a physician with

ample experience in the technique. He also recommends that patients choose a surgeon with whom they feel comfortable and who takes the time to answer all their questions. When considering where to have surgery, hospitals that perform a high-volume of such procedures have been shown to have the best outcomes.

—Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)

Colon Cancer Is Common

Colon cancer is common. Current screening guidelines, which were recently updated, recommend screening of asymptomatic people starting at age 45. These recommendations do not mean that people in their 20s and 30s cannot get colon cancer. Forecasters have predicted that in 2023 almost 20,000 colon cancer diagnoses and 3,750 colon cancer deaths will occur in people under 50 years of age. Almost all these deaths are preventable if the cancer is diagnosed early. This is the reason why care givers now recommend that young people, even college students, talk to their doctors about any suspicious symptoms such as constipation, rectal bleeding, or sudden changes in bowel habits.

The reason for this rise in colon cancer in young people is not yet known. Certain behaviors and factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, smoking, alcohol use, low fiber high fat diet, and diets high in processed meats have all been associated with colon cancer. One wonders what sitting in front of a computer all day, either working or playing videos or video games, does to one’s colon cancer risk, especially if that occurred when people were in their teens and twenties.

The ultimate question is, “what can be

David Bernstein, MD

done to avoid colon cancer?” Although not all colon cancer can be avoided, taking some simple lifestyle altering steps may lessen your chance of developing colon cancer. For example, if you smoke, stop! And this includes e-cigarettes. Drink alcohol responsibly. No more than two drinks a day for men and one for women. Exercise! If you are overweight, lose weight. Overweight people have a much higher risk of both developing and dying from colon cancer. Watch your diet and consume adequate fiber. Finally, make sure that you undergo colon cancer screening, by whatever method is comfortable and readily available to you.

—David Bernstein, MD, MACG, FAASLD, AGAF, FACP

Amanda Murdolo

Long Island Health Collaborative’s Second Annual Talk And Walk With A Doc Series

The Long Island Health Collaborative is renewing its commitment to tackling chronic disease through a second annual installment of the virtual Talk with a Doc health dialogue series, sponsored by AARP New York. The Talk with a Doc is a series of free virtual Zoom events, held on select Wednesdays at 11 AM throughout April, May, and June of 2023. The first webinar is Wednesday, April 12. The virtual series will culminate each month with a Walk with a Doc physician-led community walk, each at different parks throughout Long Island. You must register to reserve your spots for both talks and walks.

According to the New York State Department of Health, chronic diseases such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, health disease, and stroke are the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. These conditions account for seven of every ten deaths and affect 90 million Americans. The good news is that these diseases are preventable through a healthy lifestyle, with simple lifestyle choices, such as regular physical activity and a balanced diet.

Join the LIHC for this eye-opening series sponsored by AARP that will equip attendees with the knowledge needed to combat chronic disease in their own lives.

Talk with a Doc Virtual Health Education Series via Zoom

Talk with a Doc: Stress & Your Health

Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 11 AM

Speaker: Lawrence M. Ferber, PhD, Director, Behavioral Health Central Intake Services/Director Behavioral Health Student Externship Program, Catholic Health Register Here (URL: https://hanys-org. zoom.us/meeting/register/tZArd-6przIvHdfuCsfMr0Q5PDwkRDrrpbs_ )

April is Stress Awareness Month, the perfect time to explore ways to reduce stress for better health. Join us via Zoom on Wednesday, April 12 at 11 AM for Talk with a Doc: Stress & Your Health with Dr. Lawrence Ferber of Catholic Health. We all experience stress on some level, but the way we deal with it can have chronic effects on our mental and physical health. Dr. Ferber will discuss stress, its health effects, and healthy ways to cope through stressful times.

Talk with a Doc: Parkinson’s Disease

Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at 11 AM

Speaker: Guy Schwartz, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurology, Director of the Stony Brook Parkinson’s and Movement Disorder Center, Management of Risk Factors and Symptomatic Treatment in Parkinson’s Disease, Stony Brook Medicine

Register Here (URL: https://

hanys-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZUvceCpqjIiHtLi4DH0vGbLURwCZka9vfLT)

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Join us via Zoom on Wednesday, April 26 at 11 AM for Talk with a Doc: Parkinson’s Disease with Dr. Guy Schwartz of Stony Brook Medicine. Following Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disorder in the United States. Dr. Schwartz will discuss Parkinson’s risk factors, symptoms, and management, as well as steps you can take to prevent its onset.

Talk with a Doc: Skin Cancer

Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at 11 AM

Speaker: Keasha S. Guerrier, MD, Chair, Family Medicine, Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital; Director, New York State Academy of Family Physicians Register Here (URL: https://hanys-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZUvceCpqjIiHtLi4DH0vGbLURwCZka9vfLT)

May is a great month to spend more time outdoors, and it’s also Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month, a reminder to enjoy your sunshine safely. Join us via Zoom on Wednesday, May 10 at 11 AM for Talk with a Doc: Skin Cancer with Dr. Keasha Guerrier of Northwell Health. Dr. Guerrier will talk about skin cancer risk factors, symptoms, treatment, and most importantly, preventive measures you can incorporate into your daily life.

Talk with a Doc: Fitness for Longevity

Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at 11 AM

Speaker: Shazaan Hushmendy, MD, Mount Sinai South Nassau Register Here (URL: https://hanys-org. zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEsdeytpzMpG9XtYKhcsNXmEWaLcFjyfCEP)

Regular physical activity is vital for health and longevity, and it becomes more important to stay active as we age. Join us via Zoom on Wednesday, May 24 at 11 AM for Talk with a Doc: Fitness for Longevity with Shazaan Hushmendy, MD, of Mount Sinai South Nassau in honor of both National Physical Fitness and Sports Month and Older Americans Month. Dr. Hushmendy will discuss safe and easy ways to stay active for those 50+.

Talk with a Doc: Migraine & Headache

Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 11 AM

Speaker: Bruce Mayerson, MD, Chief of Neurology, St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, Catholic Health Physician Partners Medical Group Register Here (URL: https://hanys-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZ0od-yhrD4tEt0DeqKurauYSXqR077HDllT)

More than 36 million people experience migraine headaches in America, which is 12% of the entire population. This National

Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, join us via Zoom on Wednesday, June 7 at 11 AM for Talk with a Doc: Migraine & Headache with Dr. Bruce Mayerson of Catholic Health. Dr. Mayerson will discuss headaches, migraines, common causal factors, prevention, and treatment.

Talk with a Doc: Cataracts & Eye Health

Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 11 AM

Speaker: Jules Winokur, MD, Vice Chair of Ophthalmology, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, North Shore University Hospital Register Here (URL: https://hanys-org. zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwodOyvqDIsGtAwhe968eanRdOuHEGo0xSx)

June is Cataract Awareness Month. Join us via Zoom on Wednesday, June 21 at 11 AM for Talk with a Doc: Cataracts & Eye Health with Dr. Jules Winokur of Northwell Health. Dr. Winokur will discuss cataracts, causal factors, prevention, and treatment.

Walk with a Doc In-Person Community Walking Events

Walk with a Doc: Babylon

Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 11 AM Argyle Park, NY-27A, Babylon, NY 11702

Led by Keasha S. Guerrier, MD, Chair, Family Medicine, Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital, Director, New York State Academy of Family Physicians Register Here (URL: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/walk-with-a-doc-babylontickets-492919825467)

Join the Long Island Health Collaborative for Walk with a Doc, a free community walking event sponsored by AARP New York! Dr. Keasha Guerrier of Northwell Health will briefly discuss her specialties and the many health benefits of walking before we take a walk through Argyle Park, where attendees can walk and talk with the doc.

Walk with a Doc: Merrick

Saturday, May 27 at 11 AM

Camman’s Pond Park, Merrick Road and Lindenmere Blvd, Merrick, NY 11566

Led by Linda Mermelstein, MD, MPH, Associate Director, Community Outreach and Engagement, Stony Brook Cancer Center Register Here (URL: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/walk-with-a-doc-merricktickets-492923646897)

Join the Long Island Health Collaborative for Walk with a Doc, a free community walking event sponsored by AARP New York! Dr. Linda Mermelstein of Stony Brook Medicine will briefly discuss their specialties and the many health benefits of walking before we take a walk through Camman’s Pond Park, where attendees can walk and talk with the doc.

—Submitted by the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council

Keasha S. Guerrier, MD. Northwell Health.

Bruce Mayerson MD Catholic Health.

Guy Schwartz MD Stony Brook Medicine

Lawrence M. Ferber PhD Catholic Health

Linda Mermelstein MD MPH Stony Brook Medicine Raja Jaber MD Stony Brook Medicine.

Shazaan Hushmendy MD Mount Sinai South Nassau (Photos by Long Island Health Colaborative)

Jules Winokur, MD Northwell Health.

EPA Announces $3 Million For New York To Plan Innovative Climate Projects Across The State

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will award $3 million for New York to plan innovative strategies to cut climate pollution and build clean energy economies across the state. Earlier this month, EPA announced the availability of the funds, which represent the first funding going to states, local governments, Tribes, and territories from the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program created by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. Later this year, EPA will launch a competition for $4.6 billion in funding to implement projects and initiatives included in the plans. New York will be eligible to receive that implementation funding because it has opted in to receive the planning grant.

New York is among the 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico that are eligible to receive $3 million each in EPA Climate Pollution Reduction planning grant funds. New York will use the funds to augment climate planning in collaboration with municipalities statewide and to conduct meaningful engagement with communities, including with overburdened communities throughout the state. New York State’s Climate Act, passed in 2019, is among the most ambitious climate laws in

the nation. New York State’s nation-leading climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues fostering a green economy across all sectors and ensures that at least 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy and energy efficiency investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nation’s most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is on a path to achieving a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economywide carbon neutrality by mid-century. New York’s participation in the CPRG program will support its ongoing efforts to reduce economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions and ensure all communities equitably benefit in the clean energy transition.

About the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program

The CPRG planning grants will support states, territories, Tribes, municipalities and air agencies, in the creation of comprehensive, innovative strategies for reducing pollution and ensuring that investments maximize benefits, especially for low-income and disadvantaged communities. These climate plans will include:

• Greenhouse gas emissions inventories;

• Emissions projections and reduction targets;

• Economic, health, and social benefits, including to low-income and disadvantaged communities;

• Plans to leverage other sources of federal funding including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act;

• Workforce needs to support

decarbonization and a clean energy economy; and

• Future government staffing and budget needs.

In program guidance released earlier this month, EPA describes how the agency intends to award and manage CPRG funds to eligible entities, including states, metropolitan areas, Tribes, and territories.

Next Steps

This funding for climate planning will be followed later this year by a national grant competition for $4.6 billion in implementation grant funding that will support the expeditious implementation of investment-ready policies created by the CPRG planning grants, programs, and projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the near term. Through the CPRG program, EPA will support the development and deployment of technologies and solutions that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and harmful air pollution, as well as transition America to a clean energy economy that benefits all Americans.

By summer 2023, EPA Regional Offices expect to award and administer the funding agreements once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

—Submitted by The Environmental Projection Agency

There Used To Be A Ballpark Here Remembering Yankee Stadium On Its Centennial

JOSEPH SCOTCHIE

jscotchie@antonmediagroup.com

It was 100 years ago this month that the most famous stadium in America was built. The original Yankee Stadium is no more. A new ballpark sits across River Avenue. The history of both grand structures center around one man.

In the early 1900s, John McGraw’s New York Giants baseball won nine pennants and three World Series’ in a 20-year time span. Up in Boston, the Red Sox were building their own mini-dynasty, winning world titles in 1912, 1915, and 1916. The Red Sox boasted a pitching staff that included Babe Ruth. The latter, an ace lefthander, set a World Series record for pitching 29 consecutive scoreless innings in the Fall Classics of 1916 and 1918. The young Ruth was also a force at the plate. Using an upper cut swing, copied after Joe Jackson, Ruth started blasting home runs at a record pace.

Baseball is a business and so it was with the Red Sox. The team’s owner, Harry Freeze, had lost money on a Broadway production. To salvage the loss, he sold Ruth to the New York Yankees. Baseball history changed on a dime. In 1920, the Yankees had long been tenants of the Giants, playing in the Polo Grounds. That year, Ruth became a sensation, belting 54 home runs. The Yankees also outdrew the Giants in the latter’s own ballpark. An outraged McGraw ordered the Yankees to clear out of Harlem---and in a hurry.

Col. Jacob Ruppert, the beer baron owner of the Bombers, found a plot of land across the Harlem River in The Bronx. By April 18, 1923, Yankee Stadium, complete with its iconic façade, was open for business. The greatest showman in sports, Ruth christened the stadium, slugging a three-run home run in the 4-1 win over those same Red Sox.

The Yankee dynasty rolled on. From 1920 to 1932, the Yankees won seven pennants and five World Series. In 1925, Ruth was joined in the Yankee lineup by Yorkville native Lou Gehrig. In 1934, Ruth was released and signed a contract to play for the Boston Braves. No matter. Two years later, Joe DiMaggio joined a powerhouse that included Hall of Famers Gehrig, Tony Lazzeri, Bill Dickey, Earle Combs, Red Ruffing, and Lefty Gomez as the Bombers, from 1936 to 1947, won eight more pennants and seven World Series.

Blessed by a scouting system led by Paul Krichell and a front office manned by George Weiss, the dynasty never skipped a beat. When Weiss, in 1949, hired Casey Stengel as a manager, the press were amazed that the clownish Casey could ever manage the majestic Yankees. Stengel, however, had been a successful minor league manager. He knew how to develop young players. He would soon lead the Yankees’ to their greatest heights. From 1949 to 1964, they won 14 pennants and nine world titles.

The young Mickey Mantle replaced the great DiMaggio. Whitey Ford, the cocky lefty from Astoria, joined an ace rotation that included Vic Raschi, Allie Reynolds,

and Eddie Lopat.

After the 1960 season, Yankee management, afraid of losing Ralph Houk to another team, fired Stengel and inexplicably, George Weiss as well. Houk won three straight pennants and Yogi Berra won the AL crown in 1964. Without Weiss, however, the team went into a tailspin.

But not for long. By the early 1970s, the team was on the rebound. Smart trades and George Steinbrenner’s willingness to open his wallet for such free agents as Catfish Hunter, Reggie Jackson, and Rich Gossage led to another exciting run: Five division titles, four pennants and two World Series crowns during a run from 1976-1981. Such home grown talent as Thurman Munson, Roy White, and Ron Guidry also proved indispensable.

The Eighties were an exciting time, paced by the trio of Don Mattingly, Rickey Henderson, and Dave Winfield. But without solid pitching, no titles. With Gene Michael as general manager and Buck Showalter as skipper, the groundwork was laid for the Joe Torre-Derek Jeter-Paul O’Neill-Mariano Rivera-Bernie Williams era when the Yanks, from 1996 to 2001 won five pennants and four World Series to solidify their standing as Team of the Century.

Why were the Yankees so successful? The old Yankee Stadium was a pitcher’s ballpark. Sure, there was the short right field porch built for Ruth, Gehrig, Bill Dickey, Yogi Berra, the switch-hitting Mantle, Roger Maris, Graig Nettles, Jackson, and O’Neill. Left field, however, was Death Valley: All the way to 430 ft. and 461 ft. in left center. Lefty pitchers dominated: Herb Pennock, Lefty Grove,

Whitey Ford, Eddie Lopat, Al Downing, Sparky Lyle, Ron Guidry, Dave Righetti, Andy Pettitte, and Mike Stanton. Memorable moments? An entire volume (or two) is necessary. We’ll name a few: Babe Ruth’s 60th home run on the next to the last day of the 1927 season, the 1949 final two-game sweep of the Red Sox giving Stengel his first pennant, Don Larsen’s perfect game in the 1956 World Series, Roger Maris’s 61st home run on the final game of the 1961 campaign, Chris Chambliss’ 1976 pennant-winning homer, Reggie Jackson’s three home runs in the 1977 Fall Classic, perfect games by David Cone and David Wells. Advertising, give me more space.

The Yankee history is Shakespearian in scope and emotion: The Falstaffian largess of Babe Ruth and Casey Stengel, the Mantle, Ford and Billy Martin band of brothers offset also by tragedy: A dying Lou Gehrig’s “Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the earth” speech at the July 4, 1939 Old Timer’s Day, sadly augmented 60 years later in Aug. 4, 1979 as a capacity crowd gave the late Thurman Munson “the most moving tribute I’ve ever heard in a ballpark” two days after the Yankee captain died in a plane crash in Canton, OH. At that time, Gehrig and Munson were the only two captains in Yankee history. Since then, Graig Nettles, Ron Guidry, Willie Randolph, Don Mattingly, Derek Jeter and now, Aaron Judge have worn that honor.

There is considerably more to Yankee Stadium history than baseball, namely memorable prizefighting matches and football games. Tune in for more next week.

An aerial view shows the construction of the new Yankee Stadium alongside the original baseball stadium in the Bronx. (Getty images)

Babe Ruth hugs his old friend Lou Gehrig at the emotionnal 1939 Old Timers Day.

Art League Hosts LGBT+ Workshop

books called zines.

LAUREN FELDMAN

lfeldman@antonmediagroup.com

Recently, the Art League of Long Island hosted the first of three LGBTQIA+ workshops taking place over the next few months. The classes, hosted by transgender artist Liv Cocozza, explore LGBTQIA+ art and literature from the past and going forward into the future.

The first class, titled “Queer History”, encouraged participants to reflect on Queer ancestors and historic liberation movements through a powerful presentation. Participants then learned to use the visual tools of their predecessors and contribute to sharing Queer experiences and movements in the future while making abstract and symbol-based works of art. This included the employment of paint, paint pens, and paper collage. Participants were encouraged to explore what they wanted to say about either their experiences, or the experience of other queer people, both historically and in the modern day.

The next workshop will take place on Saturday, May 20. This workshop, based on LGBTQIA+ words, will delve into how sharing words – in the form of poetry, fiction, even protest speech – has always been a tool to educate and share personal experiences within the Queer community. Students will read excerpts of Queer writers’ current and past, then make their own writing and visual

The third and final workshop will take place on Saturday, June 10. In this workshop, attendees will learn about the current movers of Queer visual language and create a collaborative banner to commemorate participants’ knowledge and shared experiences.

In July, there will be an exhibition, during which participants will have the opportunity to showcase their creations from any of the workshops.

These workshops, while not solely for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, are gathering spaces of community and reflection. They are completely free and open to the public. All sessions take place in the Art League’s Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery. If you are interested in attending any of the remaining sessions, please register early as space is limited.

About the Instructor:

Liv Cocozza’s artwork explores the relationship between intimate queer experiences and the vulnerability of navigating medical and political spaces as a transgender person. At the same time, acknowledging the unspoken, un-archived, or misconstrued history of queerness. His work employs materials such as silicone, bed sheets, latex, and construction hardware. Their practice is highly influenced by queer political and art history, acknowledging the labor and efforts of those who came before him in queer and trans liberation. Liv aims to use the public paradigm of queerness, and the intimate experiences of queerness to form a path to a restorative future. Visit their website at https://www.livcocozza.com

– Additional information provided by the Art League website

Art piece, by Lauren Feldman, exploring themes of isolation and togetherness in the face of persecution. Created during the first workshop.

A New Corpse Flower Has Bloomed— And Released Its Infamous Stench— At The New York Botanical Garden

An Amorphophallus titanum, or “corpse flower,” bloomed at The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory this past week. The spectacular blooming flower gets its macabre nickname from the distinct odor, which some have described as similar to the smell of rotting meat, during its brief 24- to 36-hour bloom. Its smell serves a purpose, though, attracting pollinators that feed on dead animals. The corpse flower first bloomed in the Western Hemisphere at NYBG in 1937 and 1939, and it took nearly 80 years for another one to bloom. The 2016 plant attracted more than 25,000 visitors to smell the bloom in person and nearly two million views of its progress on a live online video feed.

What is it?

Titan-arum or corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum) is native to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. Its enormous flower spike is the largest unbranched inflorescence (flower structure) in the Plant Kingdom. The fleshy central spike, called a spadix, bears small flowers in rings around its base. The spadix can grow up to 12 feet tall. The spadix is wrapped in a frilly, modified leaf called a spathe. When the plant is ready to bloom, the spathe unfurls, exposing the flowers inside. You may recognize the structure’s resemblance to calla-lily, anthurium, and jack-in-thepulpit, which are all relatives in the arum family, Araceae. Amorphophallus titanum is often called corpse flower because when it blooms, it emits a powerful stench similar to that of rotting meat. This scent, along with the deep-red, meaty color of the open spathe, attracts insect pollinators that feed on dead animals.

What’s happening?

Titan-arums take years to form flower buds, but when they finally do, the flowers mature very quickly. In the beginning of the bloom cycle, a titan-arum grows four to six inches each day.

Later, growth slows significantly. Two leaves at the base of the spathe shrivel and fall off. The spathe begins to open, revealing the red-purple color inside, and completely unfurls over the course of about 36 hours. During full bloom, the spadix self-heats to approximately human body temperature, which helps disseminate odor particles.

How is it cultivated?

This titan-arum has been nurtured in the warm tropical zone of the Nolen Greenhouses.

The hot and humid conditions in the greenhouse mimic the natural conditions of Sumatra. The plant must be watered and fertilized copiously.

Why all the excitement?

Titan-arum blooms are rare and unpredictable. Each plant takes seven years or more to store enough energy to bloom for the first time. This titan-arum is 12 years old.

A Long, Stinky History

NYBG received its first titan-arum from Sumatra in 1932. In May 1937, a flower bud appeared. This was the first titan-arum to flower in the Western Hemisphere, and the Conservatory was mobbed with visitors, reporters, and photographers. After a long wait, the plant finally bloomed on June 8. Its eight-foot spadix was the largest ever grown in cultivation.

A second specimen bloomed at NYBG on July 2, 1939. The Bronx Borough President commemorated the event by designating Amorphophallus titanum the official flower of the Bronx. (It was replaced by the more conventionally attractive daylily in 2006.)

—Submitted by the New York Botanical Garden

WORD FIND

HOROSCOPES By Holiday Mathis

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction al ays in a straight line o e letters are used ore than once ing each ord as you find it and hen you ha pleted the pu le, there ill be letters left o er hey spell out the alternati e the e of the pu le

HOROSCOPES By

HOROSCOPES

Holiday Mathis

By Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Should you take on the established order? It will consume more energy than it’s worth. However, there’s luck this week for ducking under the radar to handle things your own way, if you’re quick and decisive. e other option is to accept things, focus on the advantages in this situation and know that your moment is coming.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Boredom feels bad but is good for your big picture. It motivates change. If you were never bored, you wouldn’t set out on adventures, seek new knowledge or nd deeper meanings. is week, you’ll move through ennui to fantastic, fresh circumstances. e company of re signs will be particularly lucky (Aries, Leo and Sagittarius).

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). is version of yourself has its own set of rituals, some of which you don’t really think about. Being more conscious of the patterns involved in supporting your current lifestyle will be an important step in adding meaning and relevance to your scene. As your awareness grows, so will your options.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). ere are parts of your experience you prefer to keep to yourself, not because these events or feelings are shameful but because they are precious. ey are too sacred to put into words or subject to the opinions of others. ere’s a dignity in preserving your own mystery now.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). People throw up barriers for their own reasons. Maybe they don’t want to be known, or maybe they are trying to get out of the work involved in serving or relating to others. When met with resistance, don’t back down so easily. It gives power to lesser human instincts. Stand with the better angels.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Nervous anticipation is uncomfortable, but for many high achievers, it comes with the territory. e week sees you feeling responsible and invested in an outcome. Don’t worry, after you’ve done what you set out to do enough times to trust your own competence, the nerves will disappear.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). ere will be a lull. e dimming of external stimuli is an opportunity to turn your attention inward. Instead of your usual problem-solving in service to others, you’ll brainstorm about how to resolve what’s been troubling you. Your intellect is bright. You’ll start with a dream and follow it to a practical solution.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). None of us can totally control what happens to us. What happens inside us can be similarly challenging to manage. But at least you’ll have a good deal of say over where you show up this week. Put yourself in the best places -- happy, warm places of your choosing where the company is kind and inclusive.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Feelings are neither true nor false, they simply are. Accept how you feel for what it is, a tone of the moment that could intensify or fade, change or evaporate. Know that what you’ve experienced doesn’t make you any more or less of a person, but what you can accept and assimilate de nitely broadens you and gives you something to build on.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). A lot is happening at once this week, but don’t worry about it all. You don’t even have to worry about any of it if you don’t want to. You know where you’re headed. You have the map. You’re taking the steps. Be content with small gains. Trust the process.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ll take a stand when you’re ready, but there’s something to iron out rst. You want con rmation that you’re right. Test the ethics and legalities out on friends and experts. When you’re convinced you have a case, it will be much easier to assert yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). ere’s nothing to do, only something to stop doing. Technically, not acting takes less energy than an action would, but anyone who’s tried to quit an unwanted habit knows it doesn’t work like that. Stopping can be hard. Take heart. Once you reorient your mindset, inaction will indeed be the easier route.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

Welcome to a year of personal revelations. You nd it easier and easier to know your truth and live by it. All the little things you used to do out of duty and obligation will get another look. If you choose them, you’ll do so for new' reasons, like honor, self-discovery and strength-building. You’ll be part of a grand mission. It’s rare that you get to do exactly what you want for a break, but you’ll plan it and it will work out brilliantly. An old rift will be healed.

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INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

Our anatomy

Solution: 16 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 al ays in a straight line o e letters are used ore than once ing each ord as you find it and hen you ha e copleted the pu le, there ill be letters left o er hey spell out the alternati e the e of the pu le

Our anatomy

Solution: 16 Letters

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Solution: An amazing machine Date: 4/12/23

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CONTRACT BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER

FOR RELEASE SUNDAY, APRIL 9, 2023

CONTRACT BRIDGE

Alertness at trick one

By Steve Becker

East covers with the jack, and South wins with the king. Declarer then presumably leads a diamond to the king, taken by East’s ace. East returns a club, and the contract is down whether South finesses or not. If he finesses, he goes down two after West wins with the king and returns a heart; if he doesn’t finesse, the best he can do is to cash out for down one.

The result is the same if declarer plays the four of hearts from dummy at trick one. East allows the eight to run to declarer’s king, and the rest of the play is identical.

Declarer must always view the play of the hand as a whole rather than try to deal with each suit as entirely separate and distinct issues.

Consider this case where South arrives at three notrump on the bidding shown, and West leads the eight of hearts. The question is which heart declarer should play from dummy to the first trick.

South should resolve this question by referring to the bidding and the overall layout of the hand. Observe what happens if declarer unthinkingly plays, say, the ten of hearts at trick one.

Tomorrow:

The winning play is not that difficult to find, given the circumstances. East is known to have at least a five-card heart suit, and West is obviously leading his top heart. South can therefore go a long way toward neutralizing East’s hearts by playing the queen from dummy at trick one.

East must take the queen with the ace — otherwise declarer will score two heart tricks instead of one. After taking the ace, however, East cannot return a heart without allowing dummy’s ten to become a trick. Whatever East shifts to, declarer has time to establish his clubs and so finish with nine tricks consisting of four clubs, four spades and a heart. The diamond suit need never be touched.

Once the threat of East’s hearts has been defused, South has nothing to worry about.

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 Sudoku Puzzle

Answer to last issue’s Crossword Puzzle

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Students Awarded After Raising Money For Leukemia And Lymphoma Society

Recently, a group of three high school students from Long Island - Sophie Wang, a sophomore from Syosset High School, Hayley Ji, a junior from Syosset High School, and Ivan Chiang, a junior from Great Neck South High School, led a team to raise approximately $54,000 for Leukemia and Lymphoma research.

They participated in a seven week long fundraising campaign with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and were announced as the second runner up for the 2023 Long Island Stu-

dent Visionaries of the year. These students interacted with the community and encouraged many to donate for the cause, funding research for blood cancer.

They chose their team name as “Rekindling Hope” to incite optimism for cancer patients and provide encouragement. Their team consisted of ten members, including participants from all around the country.

They received inspiration from this year’s LLS honored hero, Brandt Morgan from Jericho High School, who has successfully overcame the challenges of being

diagnosed with Lymphoma.

They want to thank the community of people who have donated and assisted them in their campaign, including local restaurants, churches, supermarkets, as well as friends and family.

Team “Rekindling Hope” aspires to spread awareness of the importance of finding a cure for cancer that can save millions of lives.

In America, hundreds of thousands are diagnosed with Leukemia and Lymphoma every year, affecting their households and families.

—Submitted by Sandra Ji

My state-of-the-art facilities, med spas and surgical centers bring a fusion of art and science to the pursuit of age-defying beautiful skin. It is the facility of choice among men and women seeking rejuvenating skin care procedures in a relaxing and pampering environment. Our licensed medical estheticians use the most advanced technology and clinical skin care treatments and products that provide real solutions for clear, smooth, and younger looking skin. By creating a fine balance of medical science and cosmetic beauty, our clients can expect optimum results. A visit to our office will have you looking your best faster than ever before with minimal to zero downtime.

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MiYad Of Jericho Proclaims ‘Education and Sharing Day’

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with Rabbi Chanan Krivisky, of MiYaD of Jericho, to proclaim April 2, 2023 “Education and Sharing Day” in the Town of Oyster Bay, in recognition of the 121st birthday of Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson who was considered to be one of the most influential Jewish leaders of the 20th century.

“Rabbi Mendel Schneerson dedicated his life to education and advocated for a greater emphasis of human rights, justice

and morality in the education system,” said Supervisor Saladino. “I can’t think of a more fitting way to honor him than to proclaim April 2, 2023 ‘Education and Sharing Day’ here in the Town, and encourage classroom instruction to include morality and ethics.”

Supervisor Saladino presented Rabbi Krivisky with this proclamation and thanked him for his incredible efforts and for his spiritual and religious contributions which he provides, every day.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

and Rabbi

of

POLICE REPORT

Grand Larceny In Woodbury

The Nassau County Police Department Sixth Squad reports on the arrest of three men that occurred on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at 2:07 a.m. in Woodbury for grand larceny.

According to Detectives, Officers observed a white Ford Econoline van traveling on Jericho Turnpike that matched a vehicle involved in multiple larcenies. Officers activated their emergency lights and conducted a Vehicle and Traffic Law stop of

Free

Oyster

the vehicle near the intersection of Village Lane. After an investigation was conducted, the three occupants of the vehicle, defendants Chase Barret, Eldorado Sterling and Jovanie Clarke were all placed under arrest without incident. Further investigation resulted in the three defendants being found to have been involved in the following two larcenies of multiple tires and rims;

March 28, 2023 at the North Shore Honda,

located at 611 Glen Cove Road, Glen Head. March 28, 2023 at Penn Toyota, located at 2400 Northern Boulevard, East Hills.

All three defendants are charged with Grand Larceny 3rd degree, Grand Larceny 4th degree and Criminal Mischief 4th degree. Defendants Barret and Clarke will be arraigned on Monday, April 3, 2023 at First District Court, located at 99 Main Street, Hempstead. Defendant Sterling was

released on an Appearance ticket returning to First District Court on April 21, 2023.

Defendant Jovanie Clarke was previously arrested on May 7, 2022 and charged with Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree, Grand Larceny 3rd Degree, Auto Stripping 2nd Degree, and Possession of Burglar’s Tools. He was released on May 8, 2022 with no bail.

—Submitted by the Nassau County Police Department

Bay Harbor Cleanup And Marine Education Expo

Wildlife Encounter, Marine Exhibits, Activities, Games and Great Volunteer Opportunity for Students

Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Laura Maier invite residents to participate in an Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup and Marine Education Expo, scheduled for Saturday, April 15 (rain date April 16) at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay. Co-sponsored by the Friends of the Bay, the day offers volunteers – individuals, families, companies and organizations – an opportunity to give back to the environment by removing litter from the shoreline and below. The Marine Education Expo features environmentalists and marine educators offering information on local wildlife, including encounters with some animal ambassadors, interesting ecosystem restoration projects, solutions to help tackle marine pollution, a marine vessel restoration project and boat yard tour, and family fun activities. $20,000 grant applications will be available to homeowners and small businesses looking to upgrade their septic system to new clean water systems.

“This is a great opportunity to roll up your sleeves, giveback to Mother Earth, and have fun while learning more about our local marine life and environment,” said

also

Volunteers are invited to participate in the cleanup, which will run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The central meeting place will be Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park launching ramps and waterfront gazebo off of Larrabee Avenue in Oyster Bay. Additional locations for the clean-up include Stehli Beach in Bayville and Centre Island Beach in Bayville. Certificates are available upon request for students seeking to fulfill volunteer requirements. Typically, in year’s past, harbor and beach clean-up events have resulted in 40,000lbs of debris being collected by volunteers and town workers.

Councilwoman Maier stated, “From wildlife encounters to boat restoration and fun activities, this Harbor Cleanup and Marine Education Expo offers a great and free day out for the family. I hope to see you at the Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup & Marine Education Expo on April 15th.”

Individuals and groups who are interested in registering for this environmental cleanup should visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ volunteerform or call the Department of Environmental Resources at 516-677-5943.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Supervisor Joseph Saladino

Chanan Krivisky,

MiYaD of Jericho. (Photo courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

Supervisor Saladino. “ This year’s cleanup

features an underwater dive to the harbor’s bottom! A group of local divers

will enhance our debris collection efforts by removing trash that has already traveled into the water.”

Help protect the waters of Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park. (Photo by Jennifer Corr)

Town, Fire And Water Officials Denounce State Housing Plan That Threatens Long Island

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with his partners in Nassau County government, Supervisor Jen DeSena of North Hempstead and Supervisor Don Clavin of Hempstead, as well as Oyster Bay Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, to demand that State lawmakers eliminate the State Housing Plan to flood suburbs and single-family home neighbors with thousands of new apartments. This latest proposal by Governor Hochul – seemingly a repeat of last year’s plan to turn suburban neighborhoods into overcrowded urban centers – would result in high density housing flooding every community, as well as spot zoning in which large scale apartment buildings could pop up next to single-family homes.

“We must save our suburbs from this ill-conceived plan as it would overcrowd classrooms, greatly increase traffic and cars parked on our streets, strain emergency services and threaten the environment. We join together to protect our most precious resource – our water supply, which is under attack by this latest plan of overdevelopment,” said Supervisor

Saladino. “When it comes to the environment, the largest plume in any solesource aquifer in the United States sits

under our land in the Town of Oyster Bay. Over a billion dollars are already needed to clean up the plume, and even more

is needed for our water districts to keep ensuring that our drinking water is safe at the tap. Over a billion dollars are also needed to upgrade our sewage and septic systems which are already near capacity, with many seeping into the ground. Our only landfill in Brookhaven is on the verge of permanent closure, and a garbage crisis looms for the current population as waste will need to be trucked off Long Island and no solution exists. For these reasons and a host of others, we demand that State lawmakers eliminate the Governor’s Housing Mandate.”

The three town supervisors joined local district officials to voice their concerns of how the Governor’s urbanization plan would negatively impact the environment, traffic, parking, emergency services, police protection, local utilities and schools. They also asked the public to join them in contacting state officials to demand that this proposal not move forward.

To help have their voices heard against this proposal, residents can visit www.oysterbaytown.com/sos and sign the petition telling state representatives their opposition to the plan.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Saladino Announces Free Family Fun Spring Festival

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board invite residents and their families to a Spring Festival on Saturday, April 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, located on Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury.

The Spring Festival will once again feature free activities such as inflatables, games, refreshments, a petting zoo, multiple photo opportunities and so much more. Additionally, food truck vendors will be on-

site with specialties available for purchase.

“This free event is one of the most popular in our Town, and a great opportunity for residents and their families to enjoy a beautiful spring day at our park while celebrating the arrival of spring with a full afternoon of activities, games and attractions,” said Supervisor Saladino.

The Town of Oyster Bay extends a special thanks to the following event sponsors: Extreme Auto Body, Action

Town Collects 48 Pints Of Blood to Help Save Lives

To help hospitals meet the pressing need for blood, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilwoman Laura Maier partnered with the New York Blood Center to collect 48 pints of blood at a Collection Drive at the Town’s Hicksville Athletic Center.

“Blood donations are extremely important to help secure necessary blood transfusions for patients. As blood supplies remain critically low and the New York Blood Center recently announced

an Emergency Blood Shortage, it is so important to help those in need and host these Blood Drives as often as we can,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Just one pint of blood can save up to three lives. I thank everyone who donated the gift of life at our recent blood drive.”

To donate blood today, visit https:// donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/zip for more information and to make an appointment.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Auto Wreckers, Zorn’s of Bethpage, Steel Equities, Gold Coast Studios, Soccer Stars, Northwell Health - GoHealth Urgent Care, Starkie Brothers Garden Showplace, No Limit Ninja Farmingdale, Webster Bank, The Central Orthopedic Group, The Gucciardo Law Firm, More Than Gardens, Complete Basement Systems of Long Island, LLC, Orchard Estate of Woodbury, David Lerner Associates, Inc., Simply Chill Creations, Undercover Chocolate,

One River School, iSchool of Music and Art, Royal Events Princess Parties, The Waterfront Center, Oyster Bay Historical Society, 103.1 MAX FM, KJOY 98.3, 104.7 FM WHLI, News 12.

For more information on the Town of Oyster Bay Free Family Fun Spring Festival, call the Department of Community and Youth Services at 516-797-7925 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com/capa.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Town Supervisors Joseph Saladino of Oyster Bay (second from right), Don Clavin of Hempstead (third from right) and Jen DeSena of North Hempstead (fourth from left) joined with local district officials and environmental representatives to denounce the Governor’s proposal which would negatively impact Long Island suburbs. The officials displayed nearly 30,000 signed papers from residents just in one town who oppose the proposal. (Photo courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

The Oyster Bay blood drive was a success. (Photo courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

Basketball Player Of The Year

Our Lady of Mercy Academy, Senior and Seaford Resident Meghan Andersen was named the N.S.C.H.S.G.A.A. Basketball Player of the Year. Meghan has committed to play basketball at Fairfield University. She is pictured with Coach and Huntington resident Randy Todd. For more information, visit www.olma.org. Our Lady of Mercy Academy is located at 815 Convent Road in Syosset. (Photo courtesy Our Lady of Mercy Academy)

Boys Basketball Dominated Round One Of Playoffs

The Jericho High School boys varsity basketball team made it to the playoffs and beat Bethpage in the first round by a comfortable margin. Unfortunately they lost in the second round to South Side High School. We congratulate the team on a great season. (Photo courtesy Samantha Schroeder and Noah Inoff of JerEcho)

Syosset High School Students Qualify For The International Science And Engineering Fair

Two students in Syosset High School’s Research Program have qualified for the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) after receiving first place designations at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF).

At LISEF earlier this month, senior Imran Gangat placed first in the Systems Software category and was also awarded the Office of Naval Research award. Junior Vincent Huang was awarded first place in the Materials Science category and received a special recognition from the Yale Science and Engineering Association. Their firstplace projects qualify them to participate in

the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) this coming May.

Syosset students also placed well in other categories in the LISEF fair, including seniors Sabrina Guo and Zachary Kam, who both received second place in the Behavioral and Social Sciences category. Zachary Kam also received a special recognition from the American Psychological Association. Senior Alex Wang placed second in the Biomedical Engineering category, and Grace Na received an honorable mention for her work in Microbiology.

—Submitted by the Syosset Central School District

Syosset High School Senior Imran Gangat.Syosset High School Junior Vincent Huang. (Photos courtesy Syosset Central School District)