The Nassau Observer 5/03/23 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

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Pascullo-Salegna Team Pinnacle Award Recipient, 2016–2022*

LEGAL NOTICES

KEYSPAN GAS EAST CORPORATION d/b/a NATIONAL GRID

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by KeySpan Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid (“Company”) that it has led with the New York State Public Service Commission (“PSC”) tari revisions to its Schedule for Gas Service, PSC No.1 – GAS, that are proposed to become e ective June 3, 2023.

The Company seeks to increase delivery revenues by approximately $228 million to modernize and improve the safety, reliability, and performance of our infrastructure, enhance the customer experience, reduce system emissions, and fund energy a ordability and e ciency programs. The Company’s ling is subject to approval by the PSC and the rates approved may be di erent from those proposed. The Company expects that the PSC will suspend the proposed rates for the maximum period permitted under the Public Service Law, which would mean an e ective date of revised rates of April 1, 2024.

S.C. No. 1A, 5-1A – Residential Non-Heating Service

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S.C. No. 16, 5-16 – Year-Round Space

S.C. No. 1B, 5-1B – Residential Heating Service S.C.

1BR, 5-1BR – Residential Heating Service

S.C. 17 – Baseload

5-1B-DG – Distributed Generation

S.C. 17 – Baseload Distributed Generation – Rate 2 –Equal to or greater than 1 MW but less than 5 MW

No. 2-A, 5-2A – Non-Residential Non-Heating Service

S.C. 17 – Baseload Distributed Generation – Rate 3 –Equal to or greater than 5 MW but less than 50 MW

S.C. 18/19–Non-Firm Demand Response Sales Service – Tier 1

S.C. 18/19–Non-Firm Demand Response Sales Service – Tier 2

For more information, visit ngrid.com/li-rate ling or the PSC’s website (dps.ny.gov).

KEYSPAN GAS EAST CORPORATION d/b/a

People With Disabilities Tell Their Stories

In a recent event designed to make the voices of people with disabilities heard during National Disabilities Awareness Month, a dozen people with disabilities spoke about their lives, challenges, struggles and successes.

They talked about overcoming obstacles, finding inspiration, triumphs, performing and building confidence amid skepticism among the general public.

National Disabilities Awareness Month was created in 1987 to increase understanding, encouragement and opportunities for people with disabilities to lead productive and fulfilling lives.

Family Residences and Essential Enterprises (FREE), one of the region’s largest nonprofits, presented “Our Stories: FREE’s Disability Awareness Celebration” recently, at FREE’s headquarters, 191 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road, Old Bethpage.

Around 50 people attended the event, including music, art and words delivered at a podium with the word FREE, for Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, and the motto “reach high, achieve more.”

After a performance by FREE’s drum and bugle corps, people with disabilities gave speeches, read poems and told stories near a display of collages and paintings.

“All of this is a way of telling your story. All of these pieces are a part of you,” said Jaime Crispin, who organized the event and leads FREE’s Speakers Bureau, comprised of disabled people who speak to the public. “Each time you tell your own story, draw or create a collage or a painting or write a poem, you are telling a part of who you are.”

Angelo, who suffered a traumatic brain injury that sent him into a coma, talked about recovering and rebuilding.

“TBI doesn’t define who I am,” Angelo said. “The only thing that defines me is A,N,G,E,L,O. That’s my first name.”

Keith Scott, FREE’s vice president in charge of policy and program development, saw that and other statements as examples of people motivated to be their best. “It’s a message of inspiration and hope about their resiliency, what they encountered

growing and living with disabilities,” he said. “It’s an empowering event.”

People found inspiration from different sources, including each other, family and staffers. Sam said seeing ‘Rent’ on Broadway inspired him.

“I remember it like yesterday when my dad and I went to the theater and watched the show,” Sam said. “It was an incredible,

life-changing event.”

Ian, who has struggled with depression and addiction, talked about his efforts to turn his life around. “That dark time made me want to change my life,” he said. “Without going through that, I would not be where I am today.”

And Bradley talked about being called into the principal’s office at the Elwin In-

stitute, a school in Pennsylvania for people with learning disabilities.

“You won the principal’s award,” he was told once he sat down. “This is the first time that a person with disability or mental illness got that award here.”

Bradley was named valedictorian, His family -- including parents, grandmother, grandfather, aunt, and cousins – all attended graduation, where they got a surprise.

He was named valedictorian, which brought some benefits which he kept to himself. “I never told my parents that the valedictorian gets to lead the class in,” Bradley said. “My brother said, ‘Hey, mom, look.’ And mom starts to do what? Cry. Mom was very proud of me.”

He described his valedictory speech, meant to inspire others with and without disabilities. “One of the things I mentioned in my speech is no matter what people think of you, you’re the best,” Bradley said.

Others read poems, such as Rebeccah whose “My voice, My life” called for recognition and respect, while injecting reality into misconceptions some have of people with disabilities. “I do not need help thinking. What makes you think I don’t have an independent mind?” Rebecca asked. “I have dreams, I have wishes and opinions.”

After the audience’s applause ended, Crispin said she hopes to send members of FREE’s Speakers Bureau, including many from the day’s event, to other audiences, spreading the word about the reality of and need for respect for people with disabilities.

“We hope to go to colleges, schools, organizations and present regarding different topics,” Crispin said, “such as disability rights, disability awareness, want to bully and various other topics.”

The event, at least briefly, also led to treatment of the participants as celebrities amid a wave of congratulations. “Autographs will be given outside the room,” Angelo said as the event wound down and before pizza was served.

—Submitted by Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc.

Angelo, who suffered a traumatic brain injury that sent him into a coma, talked about recovering and rebuilding.

Rebeccah’s “My voice, My life” called for recognition and respect, while injecting reality into misconceptions some have of people with disabilities.

A performance by FREE’s drum and bugle corps. (Contributed photos)

Marjorie Post Park Hosts Festival In Remembrance

was afflicted with Alzheimer’s for many years. Her granddaughter approached the microphone to say some words about her.

LAUREN FELDMAN

lfeldman@antonmediagroup.com

It was a cool cloudy Saturday morning in Massapequa’s Marjorie Post Park, but this did nothing to dim the light of friends, families and community members who had gathered to remember and combat a terrible disease. The Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center (ADRC) put on their annual Memory Walk & Spring Festival; the conclusion to months of organizing and planning. Led by Lauren Vlachos, CEO and Executive Director of ADRC, as well as a hoard of volunteers and ADRC members, the festival brought together a community of those affected by memory decline conditions.

Visitors were invited to form teams for the walk around the park, which would kick off the festival. This included “Team Come On, Eileen”, the Kiwanis Club of LI, “Team Irwin’s Champions” and “Team Lois”. Lois Martin, who would have been 91 that day,

“She was a generous woman who led a really inspirational life. She had a heart full of joy, and a smile that could make anyone smile. I was lucky enough to call her my Grannie. For many years, Grannie battled Alzheimer’s, which truly stripped her of her memory little by little. Although her joyous spirit remained deep down, her memories did not.”

Lois’ granddaughter continued, “I have the most incredible memories of my Grannie growing up and seeing these same memories – and countless others – being stolen from her was devastating.”

She believed if Lois could have been present at the event, she would have said ‘thank you’.

“It’s important for us to do what we can

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always, because no matter how big or small, it makes a difference.” Team Lois has been walking for many years, and this was the first year that her great-granddaughter, two-year-old Lily, came to walk as well. Lois’

granddaughter ended her speech with a wish. “My hope is that, in my lifetime, we won’t be fighting to end Alzheimer’s, we will be celebrating Alzheimer’s end. Memories should be forever.”

Following the walk was a festival throughout the park. Activities included live music, games, a roaming photo booth,

Team “Come On Eileen”.

ADRC Executive Director and CEO Lauren Vlachos (left) with Director of Operations & Volunteer Engagement Maria Prendergast (right). (Photos courtesy of Lauren Feldman)

And To Combat Alzheimer’s Disease

tasty samples from local restaurants and cafes, and more. The Massapequa Fire Department brought a truck for children to interact with, and the Sheriff / K9 team also made an appearance. Several Long Island senior healthcare organizations set up booths to inform visitors about resources and possibilities in caring for a loved one with declining memory, as well as give out various goodies and prizes.

Centered along the walk was a small, unassuming tree, which had been adorned in purple hearts and butterflies. It was on this tree that visitors could hang a tag with a name or message for a loved one who battled Alzheimer’s, a family or friend who helped care for someone with the disease, or any other message of hope, perseverance, and love. This space allowed visitors a moment of peace and reflection – among all the fun of the festival – for a disease which has devastated the lives of so many.

Vlachos looked out over the crowd with a gleam in her eye. This was her first year at the Memory Walk, and she could not have been happier with the results. “It’s really very exciting. We’ve been planning this since September. Seeing so many people come out and support us has been great. A lot of these families here access our services, whether they come to art therapy program, our music therapy program, or they participate in our support groups. It’s great to see them here with us.”

Many games, including life-sized Connect-4, were available for children to play.

The walk and festival is the ARDC’s biggest fundraising event of the year, but is also about awareness; “Making sure the community knows that we’re here, that everything we offer is free to families across Long Island. And it really helps us bring in the resources we need to offer those services,” Vlachos said. The outpouring of support has been tremendous, and she has even higher hopes for next year’s festival. “I want a thousand people in this park, I want us to take over the park!”

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Team Lois members, including great-granddaughter Lily, cut the ribbon to begin the Alzheimer’s walk.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Paws To Read With Teddy The Therapy Dog

4 p.m. - 6 p.m. By appointment only, schedule your 10 minute session! Read a favorite book to our favorite pooch, Teddy the Therapy Dog. Grades K-5. Open to residents in SD #21 ONLY. Please bring your library card to register. Please feel free to bring your favorite book to read to Teddy. If you prefer to choose something from the library’s selection, then please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes earlier than your appointment. Bethpage Public Library, 47 Powell Ave.

Star Wars Fondant Cupcakes

6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Judy Boshnak will help us decorate cupcakes inspired by our favorite Star Wars characters. Teen program. Register online in advance if interested. Contact the teen department at (516) 731-5728 ext. 241 or email teens@levittownpl.org for more information. Event will occur at the Innovation Station of the Levittown Public Library, 1 Bluegrass Lane.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

Cinco De Mayo Celebration

10 a.m. Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with stories, songs, games, and a themed craft. Ages 2-4 years with an adult. Programs run by the Children’s Department are for children residing in UFSD #22 only. You MUST use your child’s library card to register. Registration with an adult card will be invalid. This event will take place in Room E of the Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd.

Supermarket Bingo

6 p.m. Bingo played from 7 PM – 9:30 PM at Levittown Hall, 201 Levittown Parkway in Hicksville. All proceeds benefit Last Hope Animal Rescue programs. Bingo Prizes will include a variety of supermarket gift cards including BJs, Costco, Stew Leonard and more. Admission includes one Bingo card (set of 4 games), dessert and coffee/tea at

intermission. There will be a Basket Raffle, 50/50 and Lotto Ticket Board. To purchase tickets online, go to www.lasthopeanimalrescue.org, and use the designated PayPal link. Your name will be on a list at the door. Or Mail check to Last Hope, PO Box 7025, Wantagh, NY 11793 For More Info, Call (631) 332-6606 or (631) 946-9528.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Mother’s Day Paint & Sip

2:15 p.m. Let’s paint together while enjoying a sweet treat. Grades K-5 with an adult. Programs run by the Children’s Department are for children residing in UFSD #22 only. You MUST use your child’s library card to register. Registration with an adult card will be invalid. This event will take place in Room E of the Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd.

Star Wars Day

12 p.m. Join us for our 2nd annual Star Wars Day! We’ll have crafts and contests, snacks, prizes, and more! Costumes are encouraged and rewarded. Taking place at the Bar Harbor Auditorium of the Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbor Lane.

MONDAY, MAY 8

The Sinking Of The Steamboat Lexington

2 p.m. In 1840, the worst maritime disaster in Long Island history claimed 139 lives when the steamboat Lexington caught fire and sank. This disaster also had other historic milestones, including the concurrent printing of a Currier illustration in the newspaper for the first time, and a landmark Supreme Court case about shipowner liability. Presented By Bill Bleyer. Event taking place in the auditorium of the Bethpage Public Library, 47 Powell Ave.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Happy Lag BaOmer!

Finding Useful Health Information

12 p.m. Feel confused about healthcare and how to find the answers you need? In this live discussion, Stony Brook Cancer Center health educators will help you discover where to go for health information; important tips on how to prepare for doctor appointments; and how to understand confusing medical information. Bring your questions! This program is brought to you courtesy of Nassau Libraries Health Share. Please register online at https://www. hicksvillelibrary.org/ on the events page to receive your Zoom link.

Long Island Cannabis Conversations

Part III: exploring contemporary law, business, and education

The aerial view from Long Island

JANET BURNS

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

In our last installment of Long Island Cannabis Conversations, we discussed the legal principles and challenges involved in the Shinnecock Nation’s cannabis start-up in Southampton, and how embracing cannabis as a medicinal and recreational resource doesn’t always happen overnight.

For this installment of the series, we’ll zoom out our lens to look at the state of recreational cannabis rollout across Long Island as well as in New York City and State, with an eye toward breaking down the laws, business realities, and educational opportunities in our area.

Slowly but surely, cannabis programs and courses have been popping up in New York colleges and universities, including institutions such as Farmingdale State College, Queens College, Medgar Evers College, Niagara Community College, Cornell University, Nassau Community College, and Hofstra University.

These offerings range from online courses and cultivation certificate programs to cannabis business and legal classes. As a result, students and early-career professionals around the state are getting clued into what is likely to be one of the largest tangible industries, if not the largest, in New York State in coming years.

At the same time, Long Island communities have almost entirely opted out of New York State’s recreational cannabis program, meaning that local access for both adult-use (a.k.a. recreational, or retail) and medicinal users may soon rely on delivery or pick-ups from other areas, and that tax revenues will also end up outside of Nassau County municipalities.

To help make sense of the current landscape as well as the road ahead, Anton Media Group recently checked in with Andrew Cooper, Esq., LLM, Chair of the Cannabis & Psychedelics Practice Group at the law firm Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP, a board member of the JUSTÜS Foundation, and an Adjunct Professor of Law at the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University. Cooper holds both a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Juris Doctor degree from Hofstra, where he served as Business Administrator of the Hofstra Law Review (and where, his LinkedIn reveals, he also played rugby), alongside a Master of Laws from New York University.

Cooper is currently teaching a course at Hofstra Law entitled “The Law and Business of Marijuana.”

“Here’s why I’m not overly critical of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM): when I compare New York State’s legal cannabis program to other states, I think New York is making a way bigger effort to truly have a market emerge in a socially equitable yet fiscally responsible fashion.”

“Let’s compare that, for example, to New Jersey, which has tasked its registered medicinal operators with doing that. The state said, ‘Here, we’ll let you guys build the recreational market: seven of them operating in the state, with thirteen locations, and as long as you can show us that we can still service your medical market, then we’ll let you do it. But if you don’t, we’ll fine you thousands of dollars a day.’”

“We found out that the same day they opened, in April 2021, they were already violating the state’s rules. They were selling adult-use products during hours that were segregated from medical use, and they were taking the fines. Now we found out, in early April this year, two pre-existing medical operators were restricting the number of point of sale (POS) systems, the number of registers, that could be used for medical, during overlapping times.”

“Average wait time for adult use? Under five minutes. Average wait time for medical? That was 17 to 30 minutes. Again, they were fined, and they don’t care.”

“Also in New Jersey, their law let every municipality opt out of every license type. It’s not really that big a deal, because you’re not going to be heavy on the processing side in subur ban areas, but when you let every town opt out of every license, all kinds of op erators are going to be having a hard time finding spaces.”

“They rolled out a program where you can apply for a conditional license, where you apply first and then find the space to operate, or an annual license. Most people opt for conditional, because there’s no site control, to find a site

and then convert to annual. They have hundreds of licenses in New Jersey that are conditional, and a handful that have concerted to annual.”

“Until you convert to annual, you can’t even start your construction. At best, by Q4, we’re only going to have a handful of operational retail locations in New Jersey. And even though people say, ‘Look at the sales,’ it’s on the backs of out-of-state, multi-state operators with no connection to New Jersey and no social equity foundation.”

“In New York, yes, we don’t have a lot of open locations, but here’s what we do have: as many open retail locations as they have annual licenses in the social equity marketplace.”

“So let’s compare apples to apples: if you look at their recent, newly minted licensees, we’re pretty close. I’ll take New York’s roll-out over that.”

Facing today’s cannabis sub-market

“There have been hiccups, yes. We didn’t accommodate this ‘sub-market,’ and I think we created a demon.”

“When the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) was passed, there was language that says that you can’t sell, and people took that to mean, ‘Well, we can give away.’ Whether they were brick and mortar, or kiosks. or carts, or in a park, they were building on a concept of gifting: ‘We can sell you a CD, and give you the “A year ago, just about now, there were perhaps 12 or 15 operators out there (not including black market legacy operators, of course) in concept of gifting. That turned you pay for membership and get the cannabis. Suddenly we have 30. Then people decided they’d start selling out of existing bodegas. When some people saw none of those things having to deal with enforcement, they thought, ‘Well, maybe we’ll open up a brickand-mortar

“The proliferation of that market from truly nowhere, because

people in that marketplace are not historically operators and are simply opportunistic, and said to themselves, ‘Maybe it’s okay.’”

“Now we have tourists thinking all these stores are legal and regulated, and around 1700 of nonlicensed stores in the state.”

“The biggest challenge we have toward having a truly fiscally responsible, robust, socially equitable market is to try to minimize the unregulated component by either reducing that market or giving those operators a path to becoming regulated, and licensed.”

Financing and real estate meet red tape

“The second big challenge we’re now having in New York has been around funding for Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) social equity licensees, some of whom opted out of the state’s [so far only partly endowed] social equity fund because they didn’t want to wait. If you can’t use the fund, and you can’t give up control to an equity partner by law, then you’re fostering an environment that almost forces them to do backdoor agreements to be able to build.”

“The other part is this, and it’s more challenging: landlords who may want to participate in cannabis may be prevented from doing so because of their mortgage documents. The tradiitonal mortgage documents say that any illegal activity is a condition of default, so they may want to do it but they have to get permission from their lender. If their lender is among 95 percent of lenders in the country, they’re going to say no.”

“It’s even a challenge to get it approved by a lender who may have a cannabis compliance program, like Valley Bank, or DIME. Credit unions are most likely, because they’re more likely to develop compliant cannabis programs.”

“Suffolk Credit Union just got into the cannabis space. They just rolled out a program, and that’s going to solve a big part of the problem locally.”

“Valley doesn’t seem too interested in getting involved with smarter operators, and remember, banks are on a federal, state, or county charter. The banks that do work with cannabis mostly do so as depositories, not lenders.”

“The third problem we’ve found is that, in large municipalities that are all-in for the program, like New York City, operators are having trouble finding locations because of the rule that says retailers must not only be hundreds of feet away from houses of worship of schools, but also 1000 feet from other cannabis retailers. Personally, I don’t think businesses are going to win or lose

What we have now is a race to the site.

- Andrew Cooper, Esq., LLM

Andrew Cooper, Esq., LLM (Contributed photo) see CANNABIS on page 4A

Moriches Field Brewing Company received $18,750 to revitalize an empty downtown space. (Cheers to

Revitalization grants are just one of the ways we help businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways. For Moriches Field Brewing Company, a grant from our economic development program was a perfect fit to help them renovate a previously vacant property. A discount through our Vacant Space Revival Program saved them more than $4,000 on their electric bills, and rebates for upgrading to LED lighting are keeping them saving month after month.

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that.)

because they’re 1000 feet from the next guy; I think they’re going to win because they’re cultivating a brand around things that are important to people.”

“The problem gets worse when you get into more rural areas like Long Island. On Long Island, four towns didn’t opt out; one of those towns is next door to the Shinnecock Nation, and you’re not really going to be able to compete with their prices, so that really leaves three towns, Babylon, Brookhaven, and Riverhead, and the available space gets really small when you’re talking about 23 CAURD licenses on the island. There’s no cap on the number that can be issued, though.”

“If one town or city opts back in, and there are rumors, it does create more room, and the numbers would probably work a lot better than they do currently.”

“Meanwhile, CAURD licensees who opted out of the social equity fund are having to compete for locations with people who chose to participate in the fund, whose locations are being negotiated by a broker for the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).”

“What we have now is a race to the site.”

“On Long Island, the rule is a 2000 square-foot radius between sites, not 1000,

since it’s based on population density. As a result, there are fewer prime sites. That’s the most recent challenge, that we’ve been having in the past few weeks.”

“I’m still 100 percent behind New York. For me, I start with the intention of regulations. I think these things that happened were regrettably unseeable, so the question is what happens next.”

On teaching cannabis, law, or anything else

“They key to learning is having fun learning.”

“That applies to everything. People don’t understand, and I used to tell kids when I would coach any sport — soccer, lacrosse, hockey — that the only way you’re really going to be successful is if you’re enjoying yourself. As you realize you’re getting better you’ll keep wanting to do it, and then there’s a cycle happening.”

“If people don’t feel like they’re working, they just seem better able to process information.”

“I try to teach in a non-traditional way. I digress a lot, and use a lot of anecdotal evidence, because I don’t like to wait to the end to be critical. And I appreciate that students don’t feel like they’re being thrown information and being asked to remember it; they remember it like I do, by connecting

it to people or events.

That’s how I remember names now, and it’s changed everything.”

“We built on such a foundation of agriculture here on Long Island, and on hemp agriculture (remember, it’s the same plant), though it was really only being used medicinally and industrially.”

“Historically accurate, scientifically accurate information is something that’s going to get people to the point where they’re thinking, does this law, or this optout, make sense for us? Because we can limit it, we can tax it, why not? But if you’re worried about it, let’s talk about why, and give people the chance the let their guards down by making the connection historically.”

“I think it’s a matter of educating communities on Long Island, and other places in the state, about the value and incentives of opting back in: remember, that’s not just real tax dollars, but also community

give-backs that applicants are asked to describe in their applications, how they’re going to create jobs, support schools, or something else, to become an important part of the community.”

“Places like Long Beach, with millions in budget deficit, can realize that while they can’t make that up through taxes, because people won’t stand for it, they do have a solution: cannabis.”

If people don’t feel like they’re working, they just seem better able to process information.

- Andrew Cooper, Esq., LLM

Illustration of cannabis sativa anatomy by Walther Otto Müller. (Public domain via Wikimedia Commons)

School Safety: Reimagining Our Students’ Future Through Holistic Action

As an educator and former school administrator responsible for the health, safety and well-being of children, I can attest there is no greater fear than your students and faculty being in danger.

As school shootings and violent threats continue to spike across the nation, school districts are confronted with the unavoidable question of how to best reduce, prevent and respond to emergency situations, particularly those involving active shooters. Having worked in the Brentwood School District for fourteen years, I am fortunate to have never experienced such a tragedy, but many cannot say the same.

Preventative measures have largely spanned the implementation of door locks, metal detectors, surveillance, security guards, active shooter drills and anonymous reporting tools. The inclusion of school security guards specialized in an academic environment and updated technological response systems within our communities, may aid in strengthening schools’ response to emergency situations. Student mental health programs are vital for supporting the longterm health and well-being of our youth. It is important to emphasize each school district and region has varying demographics with unique student needs; there is no one-size-fits-all model for safeguarding our students against acts of violence in school.

Recent school shootings and threats have exposed vulnerabilities and deficiencies in response systems. In New York State, our emergency response services are operating on outdated technology. There is

THE DESK OF

modernized technology known as Next Generation 911 (NG911) which enables faster response times, improved communication, increased accessibility for disabled individuals, enhanced location accuracy and effective coordination between multiple emergency response agencies. This could make all the difference in life threatening situations where communication is critical and seconds matter. We should remain open to exploring all viable options.

The role of security guards in schools has undeniably changed. It is imperative school security guards receive school-specific

training in youth mediation and conflict resolution, de-escalation, and the dynamics of student behavior. This will ensure they are equipped with the tools, skills and knowledge necessary to serve our students in the most effective way.

Student mental health and well-being should not be an afterthought. Students are often in a school environment for over forty hours per week. We would be doing them a disservice if we did not recognize and act on the need for supportive resources to empower and guide our youth through any mental, social and behavioral challenges. Social and emotional learning must be incorporated

into school curricula to help students develop important skills like stress management, resiliency, and empathy. As educators and community leaders, we must build a safe environment and a culture of acceptance within our schools.

At the end of the day, schools are a place for learning, growth and development. Our students should be expanding their minds in class and excited about upcoming school events, not fearful of school shootings or any other type of violence. Together, we must raise awareness and implement holistic school safety measures to fully support our school districts, students, parents, staff and communities statewide.

—Submitted by the office of Senator Monica Martinez

Celebrating 39 YEARS IN BUSINESS 1984-2023

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

Publishers of

Glen Cove/Oyster Bay Record Pilot

Great Neck Record

Manhasset Press

Nassau Illustrated News

Port Washington News

Syosset-Jericho Tribune

The Nassau Observer

The Roslyn News

Editor and Publisher Angela Susan Anton

President

Frank A. Virga

Vice President of Operations/CFO

Iris Picone

Director of Sales Administration

Shari Egnasko

Editors

Janet Burns, Jennifer Corr, Lauren Feldman, Christy Hinko, Amanda Olsen, Julie Prisco, Joe Scotchie

Advertising Sales

Ally Deane, Mary Mallon, Sal Massa, Maria Pruyn, Jeryl Sletteland

Director of Circulation

Joy DiDonato

Director of Production

Robin Carter

Creative Director

Alex Nuñez

Art Director

Catherine Bongiorno

Senior Page Designer

Donna Duffy

Page Designer Christina Dieguez

Director of Business Administration

Linda Baccoli

For circulation inquiries, email: subscribe@antonmediagroup.com

Publication Office:

distribute as the newspaper staff assigns or sees fit. Letters to the editor can be mailed to: editors@antonmediagroup.com

Additional copies of this and other issues are available for purchase by calling 516-403-5120.

FROM

Monica R. Martinez Senator of the 4th Senatorial District

COLUMNS Bird Migration in May

Bird watchers I know look forward to May probably more than any other month because warblers and other birds are in their attractive breeding plumage as many of them pass through to their northern breeding grounds or remain here.

Some birds are permanent residents that have adapted to survive the cold winter months. But most of our birds do migrate, some further than others. While some might only migrate a few hundred miles to escape the worst of winter weather and food shortage, others migrate to us from as far as southern South America and back every year! The Blackpoll Warbler, not much larger than a Black-capped Chickadee, is able to fly 2,300 miles nonstop for 3-4 days to reach the higher elevations of the Adirondacks where it nests.

The distance migratory birds will travel varies by species. Hummingbirds, the smallest migrant, can travel non-stop as far as 600 miles—which is quite a long journey for such a tiny bird! One of the most impressive migrants is the Arctic Tern. Each year they fly more than 49,000 miles roundtrip—roughly equivalent to flying twice around the globe! They travel between breeding grounds in the Arctic and winter foraging areas in the waters off Antarctica.

Birds coming to us from the tropics are returning to their breeding grounds, where the days are longer and there is a greater abundance of food and space. Breeding in the heat of the tropics brings a different set of challenges to the success of the eggs and chicks. By migrating north, these species are moving to a more temperate climate to raise their delicate chicks.

Most songbirds migrate at night because the air is cooler, allowing them to fly farther without having to stop and cool down. The air also tends to be more stable to make their flight easier, and there are far less predators able to catch them when flying at night.

In North America migration is typically north-south, but there may be segments that are east- west. Most birds will avoid flying over water if possible. Birds will flock together because there is safety in their numbers.

ALL ABOUT BIRDS

Peggy Maslow North Shore Audubon Society

The larger the group, the more disorienting it can be for a predator like a Peregrine Falcon to focus on one individual bird. When they have landed, they can take turns watching for predators, so some can focus on eating or sleeping while others are on watch.

For birds flying in formation (like geese and cormorants), there is an interesting aerodynamic benefit to flying in a “V” formation. When positioned properly and flapping in sync, the birds save energy during flight.

Some birds are more flexible than others when it comes to the timing of their departure. There are many birds that are hardwired when to head north. It may depend on the length of the days. Birds that are traveling from as far as South America or Costa Rica have no way of knowing what the weather is like in the United States, so a milder winter here will have no way of affecting their arrival.

The more flexible species are those that winter here in the US and have a shorter distance to travel to their breeding grounds. They may sense the milder temperatures and opt to head north sooner. This includes species like the Red-winged Blackbird, American Woodcock, and Tree Swallow.

Migration is no easy feat. It is treacherous and birds face many hazards along the way, but there are ways we can help! It is estimated that up to 1 billion birds die each year from window collisions. At home, we can make our windows more easily visible and therefore avoidable for birds in flight. You can order decals online from one place, featherfriendly.com. Garvies Point Museum and Preserve

uses their decals. Migration can be spellbinding to observe in hotspots like Central Park in New York City or in many places on Long Island. Go to a search engine and type

in NY State birding trail and look up places to see birds on the map. Close to Manhasset try Sands Point Preserve and Science Museum of Long Island. You can a join bird walk group.

Look Up AMANDA OLSEN

aolsen@antonmediagroup.com

A number of astronomical events are taking place for the month of May. I recommend a star map application like Sky Map if you are just getting started and need a jump start nding celestial objects. Once you learn the basic constellations and asterisms (star groupings that are smaller than constellations, like the dippers) it will be easier to spot other astronomical phenomena. e further you can get from light pollution, the better your chances of observing these events, especially ones that are closer to the horizon or only dimly visible. If you’re up for a drive, the further east you go, the better your viewing will be, with Montauk being the ideal spot. It’s farthest from NYC and has an almost unobstructed view. e Custer Observatory in Southold is another great place to observe. ey are open for stargazing Saturdays during the summer

from 9 p.m. to midnight. While the best views might be out east, local beaches often have decent views. Please note you are required to purchase a stargazing permit for state beaches, which is $30 and is only sold between January 1 and March 31, and then again in the fall from the Tuesday after Labor Day to December 31. Other spots may be subject to their own restrictions, so be sure to check with the appropriate governing body before heading out.

May 5, 6 - Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower. In the Northern Hemisphere, the rate can reach about 30 meteors per hour. It is produced by dust particles left behind by comet Halley, which has been observed since ancient times. e shower runs annually from April 19 to May 28. It peaks this year on the night of May 5 and the morning of May 6. e nearly full moon will obscure all but the brightest meteors. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will originate from the constellation Aquarius.

May 8- Venus at Highest

such as North Shore Audubon Society which leads walks every Wednesday and Saturday in May. If you have any questions contact me at nsaudubonsociety.com.

Altitude in Evening Sky. Venus will reach its highest point in the sky for 2023. From New York City, Venus will be reasonably placed and prominent, reaching a peak altitude of 37° above the horizon at sunset.

May 29 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation. e planet Mercury reaches greatest western elongation of 24.9 degrees from the Sun. is is the best time to view Mercury since it will be at its highest point above the horizon. Look for the planet low in the eastern sky just before sunrise. In addition to these events, geomagnetic activity between solar particles and the Earth’s magnetic eld is producing strong, visible auroras as far south as North Carolina. Observing this elusive phenomena requires clear skies and a dark night, but if you are already out stargazing you may still see them.

(Photos by Peggy Maslow)

LIW IW ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

Debut Novel Kismet Comes To Our Shores

lfeldman@antonmediagroup.com

Becky Chalsen has recently published her debut novel, Kismet, a story which contrasts the beautiful shores of Fire Island against family secrets and tested relationships.

The novel focuses on the Sharp twins, Amy and Jo, as well as Ben, Amy’s high-school-sweetheartturned-husband. For as long as anyone can remember, it has been this trio. These relationships are about to get put to the test, however, as Fourth of July weekend approaches. What would normally be a celebration of the twins’ long-awaited 30th birthday has instead become Jo’s wedding weekend – after a whirlwind engagement that just doesn’t sit right with Amy. Recent arguments with Ben have left her marriage feeling on-the-rocks. And to top off all the turmoil, an unexpected wedding guest threatens to topple the delicate structures Amy has spent the last decade building.

The synopsis poses: “As Amy finds herself balancing the ghosts of her past with the heartache of her present, she’ll be forced to confront her worst doubts: What if her fastidiously planned life hasn’t been her destiny all along? And what if the people Amy loves the most have been the very same things standing in her way?”

I recently had the privilege to interview Chalsen about her book and what’s coming down the pipeline for the author:

QIn your book, you explore several types of love, including romantic and familial, and you confront the idea that neither type is a guarantee; that love of all kinds takes active work and care. Can you speak a little more on this?

A“What I wanted to explore in the book was what happens romantically after the ‘happily ever after’… That work of saying okay, you fell in love, you had the fun, sort of easy part, which is the fall, but how do you actually grow together and change together?... I have these long-term relationships that I wanted to honor in the book through Amy, between the high school sweethearts’ story and also her sisterhood story with Jo.”

“[My sisters and I] have done a lot of reflection ourselves as we just turned 30 on how different we are since we were kids, all of the changes along the way… Through it all, it’s that consistent work of coming back to the people you love, with communication and trust and showing up and being there for people, instead of turning inwards. I wanted Amy, through Kismet, to relearn that she can trust the people that she’s built those relationships with, and trust that foundation. With Amy, she’s stressed and thinks that keeping things secret, putting on a happy face, will be the solution. But she has to relearn that those people in her life are there for a reason, and she can really count on them when times are tough.”

QYou’re able to create such a visceral feeling when discussing some of what Amy and Ben are going through leading

up to the trip. What was it like delving into something so personal and, frankly, taboo?

A“It was really cathartic, the whole idea of future planning… For women like Amy and myself who like to have a plan, say ‘This is what I am going to do, and when I’ll move here, and this is the job I’ll have…’ There’s not always a way to plan things out, especially when it comes to family. It’s a humbling reminder that there’s only so much we have control over. I wanted to encapsulate that for Amy and Ben, who are turning 30 and doing everything they thought they wanted to do, but then something happens that they have no control over, and how it can make you feel powerless.”

QYour book captures so many elements similar to your own life; how did your own experiences morph or develop into the plot, location, and characters you settled on?

A“The most fun part of writing the book was being able to decorate it with odes to my own life. There’s lots of fun Easter eggs for my family and my friends!”

“I was writing the book during the pandemic; I started it in summer of 2020. I had decided to see if I could to this thing I’ve always wanted to do; write a book. I definitely leaned into that idea of ‘write what you know’, especially with the constrictions of going out into the real world and doing research. It was really fun to write a book in the town of Kismet… It’s the most fun place in the world, getting out there on the ferry and hearing the bands play at night. It seemed like the perfect setting for a love story. It was so fun to be able to honor a place that is so close to my family’s heart.”

QWhat’s been the best part, now that the novel is out and ready for readers?

A“It’s been amazing! So next level, and out of this world to go into bookstores and see Kismet on the table with authors whom I’ve esteemed and admired. It’s been a pretty emotional week… I just love talking about Kismet with people who have picked it up or read it… It’s been something that existed just in my head for so long, or in my editors’ inboxes for so long, I almost forgot it would be a real product… Of course, now people are wondering how much of this story is me [laughs], and am I more of an Amy or a Jo?”

QWhat are you most excited about going forwards? Any plans for more writing on the horizon?

A“I’ve actually written a second book and have begun the process of edits! It’ll be a return to Fire Island, but with different characters, and it’ll be more of a friend story than a family story.”

For those who can’t get enough of Kismet, Chalsen says to stay tuned for some details on an upcoming event at Fire Island on August 6th, where she and other writers will be giving a talk on Kismet Island.

Kismet, by Becky Chalsen, is out now.

(Photos courtesy of Hannah Poole)

Author, Becky Chalsen.

HOMES

Recently Sold

This home at 28 A+B Dunes Lane in Port Washington is a golden opportunity for the savvy investor. It sold on April 4 for $1,430,000, undoubtedly a recession-proof investment opportunity with all units being rented in this handsome duplex. Dunes Lane is one of the most desired streets in the Manorhaven section of Port, leading directly into the Village of Sands Point. The property is continuously maintained and was built with the finest of materials and craftsmanship. The Village of Manorhaven is the host to the Manorhaven Beach Park, where the activities and sports are endless in the picturesque backdrop setting of Manhasset Bay. This 2,382 square-foot home has six bedrooms and six bathrooms.

This home at 26 Kaywood Rd. in Port Washington sold on March 10 for $1,125,000. It is a wonderful opportunity to own an unusual two-family home in the perfect location of the Orchard Beach Section of Manorhaven right across from Manhasset Bay, park and marinas. This home was lovingly renovated by the owner and well cared for. This solid house sits on just shy of a 7,000 square-foot lot and affords tenants plenty of privacy. The sound-proof barrier used between two units is extremely effective. Unit A has a front porch with lovely views, a nice-sized living room with a fireplace, wellequipped kitchen, dining area and powder room. Upstairs there are two bedrooms, a full bathroom and laundry plus water views. Unit B has a two-story entry, an open floor plan with kitchen, living and dining area, a full bathroom and plenty of natural light. There are two bedrooms upstairs, along with a full bathroom and laundry. There is private yard space and plenty of off-street parking. Both units have Andersen windows, gas heat and cooking.

HOME & DESIGN

How To Backyard Big, Even In Small Spaces

Backyarding is the practice of taking everyday activities—think entertaining, eating, working, and working out to name a few—into the green space around us. Even those living in an urban setting with a smaller yard—or no yard at all—can enjoy the benefits of backyarding, according to the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of yards, parks, and community green spaces. The TurfMutt Foundation offers this advice for getting outside and enjoying green space when you have a small yard...or no yard at all.

Plant with purpose. Plan carefully and creatively to utilize every square inch of living landscape real estate in support of your lifestyle. Need a place for your pet to do her business? Plant a small patch of grass. Long to take work outside? Set up a table in an under-utilized side yard (complete with a living landscape backdrop, of course) that can double as an outdoor dining area. Love nature? Plant a butterfly bush. Use plants to create privacy. Rather than putting up a fence in a small yard, consider a “living wall” of trees or shrubs. It will make your outdoor space feel bigger and offer support to backyard wildlife and insects. Win, win!

Go vertical. Don’t forget to incorporate vertical space into your planting plans. You can hang flower baskets on your fence or railing. A trellis laced with living vines is a gorgeous focal point. Green walls are all the rage and utilize blank wall space to create a living landscape feature.

Utilize balconies and patios. Even if you don’t have grass or any soil to plant in, you can utilize containers to plant flowers, herbs, and even fruit and vegetables. There are also many planters available that attach to balcony railings.

Remember right plant, right place. Selecting the right plants for your lifestyle and climate is key to mastering a small backyard space. Consult the U.S. Plant Hardiness Zone Map for help selecting the best plants for your microclimate. This will not only ensure you end up with plants that will thrive with minimal upkeep, they will also be best for supporting local pollinators. Enjoy community green space. Take your kids to the park for a study session. Walk the dog through the community green space at the end of your road. Plan a doggie playdate at the local dog park. These are all wonderful places to get a dose of Vitamin N(ature).

—TurfMutt Foundation

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

2023 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

A Generous Birthday Wish

Thirteen-year-old collects, donates backpacks to the unsheltered

JENNIFER CORR

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

was also able to also enjoy some snacks in celebration of Adriana’s birthday.

MAY 11

Many young people would not give up the birthday presents and money they’d receive on their special day. But for Adriana Esposito of Lake Grove, it was a sacrifice she’d be willing to make.

On April 14, Adriana and her family stopped by Long Island Coalition for the Homeless (LICH), which is based in Amityville, to drop off 100 backpacks filled with essential items like snacks, water bottles and toiletries. The donation was made a day before her 13th birthday on April 15.

MAY 12

MAY 13

MAY 14

MAY 21The Marshall Tucker Band

JUN 3Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

JUN 10Happy Together Tour

JUN 23Chicago

JUN 24Les Claypool Fearless Flying Frog Brigade

JUN 25Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood

JUL 16Gladys Knight

JUL 18Belinda Carlisle

JUL 22Johnny Mathis

AUG 5Air Supply

AUG 9The Concer t: A Tribute to Abba

AUG 18 Elvis Tribute

MAY 10 LiveNation.com

MAY 18

AUG 19The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute

SEP 9Lar Enterprises Presents: Oh What A Night of Rock & Roll

SEP 23Hermans Hermits starring Peter Noone

OCT 1The Price is Right

OCT 19+20 Lee Brice

OCT 21Monsters of Freestyle

OCT 21Parliament Funkadelic feat. George Clinton

NOV 10Masters of Illusion

NOV 12Celebrating David Bowie featuring Peter Murphy, Adriant Belew, Scrote & more

The objective of the LICH is to provide permanent housing. The Street Outreach Team at LICH is dedicated to supporting people living on the street and helping them transition to permanent housing. They cover all of Nassau and Suffolk, and work directly with people living in parks, wooded areas, vehicles, train stations, abandoned homes and buildings and other areas not meant for human habitation. Adriana was inspired to collect backpacks for the unsheltered because she wanted to help them carry their belongings. And Adriana, knowing about the work LICH does, believed they would be able to make good use of these backpacks. On April 12, she held an event at the Ronkonkoma Fire District building to collect all the supplies. Everyone who came to the event

“Every spring for lent instead of giving up candy or donuts, I take some time to help the community and this year for my birthday, since the amount of people who are unsheltered on Long Island keeps growing, I wanted to help them,” Adriana said.

In the past, Adriana has held food drives, a cupcake fundraiser for muscular dystrophy, a bracelet fundraiser for the Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation in honor of her team mom who almost died from one. In the winter she helps out with the Sachem North Toy Drive with her younger sister Charlotte. This is just some of the work Adriana, now joined by her sister, has done for the community through their initiative, Aces Arrows. This is not Adriana’s first time working with LICH. When she was even younger, she worked with her football and cheerleading program to collect coats and clothes during a pep rally.

“Honestly, I just love the community so much that it feels good to give back,” Adriana said. “It makes me happy to see other people happy and I want to teach other people how to help out, especially kids.”

Adriana’s mother, Joanna Esposito, said wanting to help people has been a part of Adriana since she was little. “It doesn’t surprise me that she would want to use her 13th birthday to give back to the community... The first thing on her Christmas list every year is an end to homelessness.”

Artist Spectacular

Community engagement specialist Bailey Riekkinen, left, and Charlotte and Adriana Esposito. (Photo courtesy Joanna Esposito)

SPRINGTIME PICNIC IDEAS

Take mom to brunch

Fun cocktail recipes

DINING

24 hours in advance

Choice of Honey Glazed Spiral Ham or Rotisserie Chicken

Warm Cinnamon Apples, Fresh Tossed Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing, Creamy Rice Pudding

Choice of 2 Homemade Sides

Per guest minimum of 10 guests apple pie and ice cream!

ready to eat! Plus choose of desserts including our famous homemade Give

Best Picnic Spots Around Town

for a springtime picnic.

John D. Caemmerer Park 165 Wentworth Ave., Albertson northhempsteadny.gov/parks

Eisenhower Park 1899 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow

www.nassaucountyny.gov//2797/ Eisenhower-Park

Hempstead Lake State Park 1 Hempstead Lake State Park, West Hempstead parks.ny.gov/parks/31/details.aspx

Centennial Gardens And Bird Sanctuary 144 Ash St., Floral Park www.fpgarden.org

Muttontown Preserve Jericho-Oyster Bay Road, south of Northern Boulevard, Syosset

Cedarmere Park 225 Bryant Ave., Roslyn www.friendsofcedarmere.org

Planting Fields Arboretum 1395 Planting Fields Rd., Oyster Bay www.plantingfields.org

Nassau County Museum of Art 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor nassaumuseum.org

Leeds Pond Preserve 1526 N Plandome Rd., Manhasset www.nassaucountyny.gov/2834/ Leeds-Pond-Preserve

Gerry Pond Park 36 Main Str., Roslyn northhempsteadny.gov/parks

Tackapausha Preserve 2225 Washington Ave. (between Merrick Road and Sunrise Highway), Seaford www.nassaucountyny.gov/2951/

Tackapausha-Museum-and-Preserve

Bailey Arboretum 194 Bayville Rd., Locust Valley www.baileyarboretum.org

Christopher Morley Park Searingtown Road, Roslyn-North Hills

www.nassaucountyny.gov/2794/ Christopher-Morley-Park

Ridder’s Pond Park Marcus Avenue and Meadow Farm Road, New Hyde Park northhempsteadny.gov/parks

Cantiague Park West John Street east of Cantiague Rock Road, Hicksville

www.nassaucountyny.gov/2791/ Cantiague-Park

Clark Botanic Garden 193 I.U. Willets Rd., Albertson northhempsteadny.gov/parks

Plan ahead. Check for special admission events, parking and hours with the park or organization listed before you go.

—Compiled by Christy Hinko

Photos by Alex Nuñez

Take Mom To Brunch

BY CHRISTY HINKO chinko@antonmediagroup.com

Gathering restrictions have loosened considerably and many restaurants are bouncing back, full-throttle, with menu selections and staffing. Now is the perfect time to take advantage of dine-in services again and treat Mom to a wonderful Mother’s Day brunch or dinner. Restrictions and safety protocols are still in place for some venues, so it is best to call ahead, confirm service hours and secure reservations.

Here are our top picks, in no particular order, for Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 9.

317 Main Street

Bottomless brunch with mimosas, bloody marys

317 Main St., Farmingdale

www.317mainstreet.com

516-512-5317

City Cellar Enjoy a Mother’s Day menu all day

1080 Corporate Dr., Westbury www.citycellarny.com

516-693-5400

Garden City Hotel

Brunch with unlimited bellinis, mimosas at King Bar 45 7th St., Garden City www.gardencityhotel.com

516-747-3000

Meritage Wine Bar

Tapas-style wine bar 90 School St., Glen Cove www.meritagebar.com

516-801-0055

Rothchilds Coffee & Kitchen Coffeehouse, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

76 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck www.rothchildskitchen.com

516-482-0434

Davenport Press

Casual American cuisine with historical charm 70 Main St., Mineola www.davenportpress.com

516-248-8300

Wild Honey American, seafood

1 E. Main St., Oyster Bay www.wildhoneyrestaurant.com

516-922-4690

Your Mother’s House Bottomless brunch, prix fixe dinner specials

2349 Jericho Tpke., Garden City Park www.mothershouseli.com

516-493-9030

Marco Polo’s (Inn at Great Neck)

East meets West—Asian fusion 30 Cuttermill Rd., Great Neck www.innatgreatneck.com

516-773-2000

Jam

Serving breakfast and brunch 1025 Park Blvd., Massapequa Park www.jamonpark.com

516-797-2000

Gatsby’s Landing

American cuisine with a seasonal menu

1362 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn www.gatsbyslanding.com

516-277-2318

Scan our QR Code for our Menus and information ORDER ONLINE

Perfectly Portable Picnic Ideas

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

We have rounded up all the classics like salads, sandwiches, desserts and lemonade—and thrown in a few extras that travel well and taste great. Plan your menu with these easy, no-fuss ideas for delicious and satisying picnic favorites.

Cobb Salad

Salads are a welcome addition to any picnic basket. Just be sure you don’t dress your salad greens in advance. Pack the dressing separately to that tender lettuces stay fresh and crisp.

Ginger Lemonade Fizz

Cool down with a nice glass of lemonade. Add club soda and ginger to the drink for a refreshing spin.

Egg Salad

Want to know a secret for jazzing up a classic egg salad? Pickle relish. Add a couple of tablespoons into the mix when preparing.

Coleslaw

Crunchy coleslaw features the best of all worlds: the sweet, crunchy and tangy flair of vinegar.

Potato Salad

It wouldn’t be a picnic without this warm-weather staple. Keep it simple by adding hardboiled eggs, mayo and some sweet pickle relish.

Brownies

Rich, chocolate brownies satisfy any sweet tooth. Let them cool completely and cut them into squares before your picnic. That will make them easier to travel with— and easier to share.

Quiche

A savory egg custard baked in a

flaky pie crust is perfect for sharing. Make ahead or easily pick up a premade tin of quiche from many local grocers with a premade selection of foods.

Fruit Salad

Sweeten up your favorite summer fruits with a drizzle of honey and a splash of orange juice. Delicious and refreshing on a hot day.

Charcuterie Board

We can’t think of anything we’d rather pack in our picnic basket than the makings of a generous charcuterie board. It’s a little bit of work to assemble the board once you get to your picnic location but trust us, it’s worth it. Think antipasto on a platter and choose a variety of cold cuts, cheese (cubed and sliced), olives, some tapenade or fig spread and some sturdy crackers.

Macaroni Salad

Prepare a subtly sweet pasta with a hint of lemon zest, and some finely chopped toasted almonds and dried apricots. It stores well for up to three days, so it is easy to make ahead.

Turkey Sandwich

Build a sandwich, piled high with toppings and a generous helping of sliced turkey. Don’t forget the cheese and the spread of choice (mayo, jam, mustard or even a little olive oil and seasonings.

Watermelon

How do you make picnic-perfect slices of watermelon even better? Sprinkle them with a mix of sugar, salt and lime zest right before serving.

Chateau Minuty M Cotes De Provence Rose

STALLER CENTERFOR THE ARTS PRESENTS

FALL 2023 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Corinne Bailey Rae 9/5

Pat Metheny 9/23

Tara McNeill & Alexander Bernstein 9/30

Disney’s Pixar’s Coco In Concert 10/9

Emerson String Quartet’s Grand Finale 10/14

Ballet Hispánico 10/21

Jessica Vosk 10/28

ILuminate 11/5

Tom Segura 11/11

LeAnn Rimes 11/18

Cat Kid Comic Club The Musical - Kids 11/19

Gala 2024: Leslie Odom Jr. 3/9/24

See the full schedule at stallercenter.com

THE ARTS THRIVE

New Membership options available!

Friends of Staller Members keep the arts accessible and thriving in our community.

By becoming a Friend of Staller, every standing ovation belongs to you too.

Leslie Odom Jr. Mar. 9, 2024

Tom Segura Nov. 11

LeAnn Rimes Nov. 18

Corinne Baily Rae Sept. 5

We Thank You, Our Loyal Clients, from the Bottom of Our Hearts for Supporting us through the Pandemic

Mothers

33 YEARS UNDER THE SAME MANAGEMENT WITH MANY MORE YEARS TO COME

Lizzie Post’s Perfect Buttercream Filling And Cake Recipes

Lizzie Post’s perfect buttercream filling recipe keeps it light and delicious. That’s why we like this recipe, which produces a restrained amount of buttercream that fills neatly but doesn’t overwhelm a delicate buttermilk feather cake. Makes enough to fill a 9-inch cake.

Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 tablespoons whipping cream

1 tablespoon brandy

Pinch of salt

Directions

In a bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the whipping cream and brandy. Taste. Beat in a pinch of salt, if needed.

Use immediately for Lizzie Post’s Buttermilk Feather Cake with Nutmeg (below) or cover and refrigerate for up to one day. Return to room temperature before using.

Buttermilk Feather Cake With Nutmeg

This cake may be plain, but it’s not lacking in finesse. It’s feather-light, moist from the buttermilk, and nutmeg scented—simply scrumptious. Because it’s so restrained, it’s versatile, good with pear compote and crème fraîche or whipped cream, or in season with juicy ripe fruit (like peeled, lightly sugared peaches, pitted sliced plums, or berries), or just pristinely on its own. (P.S. Don’t skimp on the multiple siftings—it ensures the featherlight texture.)

Makes one 9-inch, 2-layer cake. Serves 8.

Ingredients

About 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg

1 teaspoon baking powder

516.767.6490

1 teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

1 stick unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

3 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

Buttercream filling (above)

Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Directions

Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter two nine-inch round cake tins. Line the bottoms with parchment or wax paper cut to fit. Butter the paper, then flour the tins and tap out the excess.

Onto a piece of wax paper, sift the flour. Spoon the sifted flour into dry measure cups and sweep level; return the rest of the flour to the canister. Onto a piece of wax paper, sift together three times the two cups sifted flour, the nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, with an electric mixer on medium, cream the butter. Gradually beat in the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy. One at a time, beat in the eggs until just incorporated. Beat in the vanilla. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk in two batches, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

Bake until golden and the center, when pressed gently with a finger, springs back (20 to 25 minutes). A tester inserted into a layer should come out clean. Let the layers cool in the pans on a rack for 10 minutes. Turn the layers out onto the rack, turn right side up, and cool completely.

Invert one layer onto a cake plate. Spread buttercream filling over the layer almost to the edges, using it all. Top with the second layer, right side up. Dust the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar if desired. Visit www.emilypost.com for more recipes.

From Great Get-Togethers by Anna Post and Lizzie Post and The Emily Post Institute

Perfect Shower Parties By The Water

What could be more perfect than a party by the water? And, most places, you don’t have to go far to find one. A great setting for a Jack and Jill shower or a combined bachelor/bachelorette party.

Croquet anyone?

Although purists will go for the perfectly flat pitch, croquet can be played “country style” as well. Any closely mowed lawn area will do, and bumps and detours only add to the fun.

Attire: Sundresses, hats and sandals for the girls; casual shirt and khakis for the guys.

Shower Theme: Games of course! Indoor or outdoor, from lawn bowling to Scrabble, every couple needs a good supply.

Refreshments: Start with the basics—homemade lemonade and iced tea—and go from there: lemon drops or Long Island Iced Tea.

Afternoon Cruise

A classic launch to cruise, stop for a picnic at a hidden cove and then home as the sun sets.

Attire: Casual—boat shoes, swim suit and towel.

Shower Theme: Picnics! Every couple has a romantic picnic in their future: Picnic basket, cutlery, plates, glassware, napkins; corkscrew; coolers, portable chairs, candles, Frisbee, blanket, wine, gourmet food items.

Refreshments: Something easy and transportable—shrimp shooters, canapés, deviled eggs, beer and wine and ice tea, packaged in “signature” bottles.

Make sure you have a designated captain. The “no drinking and driving” rules are the same whether you are on the road or on the water. And life jackets are the boat version of seat belts.

Fore!

Start your bachelor(ette) party at the driving range. No pressure to put that little ball in the hole or wear ugly golf shoes!

Party favors: Ties for the guys and sandals or totes for the girls.

Refreshments: Ice cream and cake! Luscious ice cream in chocolate sugar cones, cupcakes. If you have a color scheme, you have lots of options here.

Visit www.emilypost. com for more etiquette and party planning tips.

—The Emily Post Institute

Break away from the typical but tried and true brunch cocktails this year for Mother’s Day. Here are some deliciously crafted recipes from the the award-winning portfolio of William Grant & Son.

Mother’s Day Cocktails

FRUITY

Pineapple Mojito

Ingredients:

1-1/2 Parts Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

1/2 Part Lime Juice

4 Cubes Sugar

4 Pieces Pineapple

10 Mint Leaves

Method: Muddle pineapple, mint and sugar in the bottom of a shaker. Add ice, lime, Sailor Jerry and shake well. Pour into glass and top with ice, lime and mint.

Raspberry Smash

Ingredients:

2 Parts Tullamore D.E.W. XO Rum Cask

1/2 Part Lemon Juice

1/2 Part Simple Syrup

2 Parts Elderflower Tonic Water

5-10 Raspberries

Method: Combine ingredients and shake over ice.Top off with Elderflower Tonic Water and strain into a coup glass. Garnish with fresh raspberries on a cocktail stick.

BERRY FIDDICH FIZZ

Hendrick’s Flora Adora Wildgarden Cup

Ingredients:

2 Parts Flora Adora

1 Part Lemon Juice

1 Part Simple Syrup

Top with Premium Sparkling Water

4 Raspberries

6 Mint Leaves

3 Cucumber Wheels

Method: Combine all ingredients in a highball glass filled with cubed ice. Top with sparkling water and stir gently. Garnish with cucumber wheels, mint leaves & raspberries.

BUBBLY

Hendrick’s Flora Adora Spritz on the Ritz

Ingredients:

1-1/2 Parts Flora Adora

1/2 Part Pineapple Juice

1/2 Part Lemon Juice

1/2 Part Aperol

1/4 Part Simple Syrup

Splash Sparkling Water

2 Parts Red Wine

1/2 Part Fresh Lemon Juice

Top With Lemon-Lime Soda

Method: Build Sailor Jerry, wine and juice in a rocks-filled mixing glass. Shake vigorously. Pour into a wine glass. Top with soda and garnish with a lemon wedge.

CLASSICS WITH A TWIST

Strawberry Daiquiri, But #MakeItMonkey

Ingredients:

2 Parts Monkey Shoulder

3/4 Part Simple Syrup

3/4 Part Fresh Lime Juice

1-2 Srawberries (sliced)

Method: Muddle strawberries in shaker, add ice, Monkey, lime, and simple. Shake. Double strain into cup.

Monkey Shoulder Mai Tai

Ingredients:

1.5 Parts Monkey Shoulder

1/2 Part Dry Curaçao

3/4 Part Orgeat

Monkey Shoulder Banana Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

1-1/2 parts Glenfiddich 12 Year Old

1 part Blueberry Juice

1/2 part Simple Ryrup

3 Parts Italian Lemon Soda

Method:

Serve in highball glass filled with ice and garnish with a lemon twist.

FLORAL

Balvenie in Bloom

Ingredients:

1-1/2 Parts The Balvenie Caribbean

Cask 14-Year-Old

1 Part Fino Sherry

1/2 Part Elderflower Liqueur

1/2 Part Rhubarb Liqueur

Method: In a punchbowl over a large block of ice, combine liquid ingredients and stir well. Garnish with cucumber wheels, pineapple wedges & edible flowers. Serve in punch cups.

Flora Adora Bubble Bees

Ingredients:

1-1/2 Parts Flora Adora

3/4 Part Lime Juice

3/4 Part Honey

1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Splash Sparkling Wine

Method: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and stir well to incorporate honey. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled stemmed glass. Top with a splash of sparkling wine and garnish.

Lavender Tom Collins

3/4 Part Lemon

3/4 Part Pineapple

Method: Shake, pour and enjoy.

Monkey’s Banana Old

Fashioned

Ingredients:

2 parts Monkey Shoulder

1/2 Part Banana Syrup

3 Dashes Black Walnut Bitters

Method: Combine ice and ingredients in mixing glass. Stir for 15 seconds. Strain over fresh ice in DOF/Rocks glass. Garnish with banana chips.

Irish Tea-Se-Tea

Ingredients:

2 Parts Tullamore D.E.W. Original

1-1/2 Parts Irish Breakfast Tea

3/4 Part Lemon Juice

3/4 Part Simple Syrup

1 Part Fresh Lemon

1 Egg White Method: Add all ingredients to a cocktail tin and shake briefly. Then add ice and shake once more. Strain into a coupe glass.

Ingredients:

1-1/2 Parts Lavender Infused Reyka Vodka*

1 Part Lemon juice

3/4 Part Simple Syrup

Top Soda

Method: Combine all ingredients in cocktail shaker except soda. Shake, double strain, garnish and serve.

*Lavender Infused Reyka Vodka: 1 tbsp lavender buds per 8 oz of Reyka Vodka. Let infuse for at least 4 hrs. Can be too intense if left overnight.

Catalina Wine Mixer

Ingredients:

2 Parts Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

Method: Mint to garnish. Add all ingredients to a punch bowl. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint. Serve over ice in a wine glass.

READY-TO-SERVE Batch & Bottle

Milagro Margarita & Grapefruit Salt Blend

Batch & Bottle’s ready-to-serve Milagro Margarita along with its recently launched custom grapefruit salt blend, offer the ideal dynamic duo for celebrating Mother’s Day at home this year. Available via SourcedCraftCocktails.com.

—William Grant & Son

over 100 years in the baking

377 willis avenue, roslyn heights, NY 11577

www.orwashers.com

After 100 years in New York City, Orwashers Bakery is bringing high quality breads, pastries and jewish deli staples to Roslyn Heights.

Our Classic New York Rye, Sticky Bun Babka, and Turkey Sandwich on brioche are stand outs, and our custom cake program is here to help you celebrate any event.

Over 100 years in the baking.

Nassau Dynasty: When The Islanders Ruled The NHL

JOSEPH SCOTCHIE

jscotchie@antonmediagroup.com

Before the rise of expansion, dynasties were not uncommon in professional sports. In baseball, the New York Yankees dominated for a good 40 years, from 1927-1964. Professional football had the Green Bay Packers of Vince Lombardi, while the National Basketball Association (NBA) featured the Red Auerbach of the 1960s. Hockey’s own dynasty was that of the popular Montreal Canadians.

The New York Islanders joined the Canadians with their own stirring run. From 1979-1980 to 1982-1983, the Islanders ran off four consecutive Stanley Cup titles. Who knows when that will happen again? The title run was the culmination of a team born in the early 1970s and one that came of age later in the decade before tasting playoff glory.

Long Island made its mark on professional sports in the 1960s when the wildly popular New York Mets opened Shea Stadium. With Nassau and Suffolk counties enjoying population growth, the move to the suburbs was inevitable.

William Shea, the New York attorney who was instrumental in bringing big league ball back to New York, also played a decisive role in convincing the New York Rangers that another NHL team in the New York area would not hurt that longtime franchise. New York, after all, lived comfortably with the Yankees and Mets, the Giants and Jets and soon, the Knickerbockers and Nets.

On Nov. 8, 1971, the league awarded a Nassau County franchise of clothing manufacturer Roy Boe. The latter also owned the New York Nets, an American Basketball Association (ABA) that later won titles paced by

Hempstead legend Julius Erving. All that turned out badly when Erving, prior to the 1976 season, was sold to the Philadelphia Seventy Sixers. The Islanders, at least in the 1980s, would enjoy a happier fate.

Bill Torrey was named the team’s general manager. The pieces began to fall in place. Defense is the key to any team sports and Torrey scored with the signing of goalie Billy Smith and defensemen Bobby Nystrom and Lorne Henning.

More help was on the way. Denis Potvin would anchor the defense, while Chico Resch would spell Smith in the goalie post. Center Brian Trottier came on board in 1975. Two years later, Torrey drafted Mike Bossy, a scoring sensation who would become the most exciting player in the league.

Disappointment came in 1979 when the team had the most wins in the league, only to lose to the archrival Rangers in the semifinal round.

In the off-season, the team picked up Butch Goring from the Los Angeles Kings. That trade solidified the second line.

Stanley Cup glory

Highlights from that great run included winning overtime goals by both Nystrom and Potvin during the 1980 playoff run; Bossy’s run of 50 goals in 50 games in 1981; Bossy, in 1982, scoring 147 points in an 80-game season, one where the team won 15 straight games; and Billy Smith shutting down the great Wayne Gretzky in the 1983 playoffs.

All good things come to an end. With Gretzky and Mark Messier, the Edmonton Oilers were now poised for their own run. The Islanders never quit, playing competitive hockey while staying on Long Island.

This year, the Islanders sported a 42-31 record while earning a spot in the playoff chase. With such young stars as Brock Nelson, Mathew Bazard, and Noah Dobson, plus Illya Sorokin in the goal, the Islanders figure to give their fans many thrills in the years to come.

Miguel was previously the Director of Racquet Sports at Cherry Valley Country Club for 11 years and prior to that he was the pro at the Village Club of Sands point for 8 years. He played #1 singles at Wayne State University and was ranked #8 in the mens Open in Florida.

Miguel brings with him over 24 years of

experience, developing and

The New York Islanders edged out the Montreal Canadiens for a playoff spot during their final regular-season game on April 12.

The Cinema Arts Centre To Host A Festival Dedicated To Legendary Samurai Films

This May the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington will present a selection of critically acclaimed and highly influential samurai films as part of a new Samurai Film Festival. Screenings will include films from the golden age of samurai cinema as well as late-night cult favorites. Beginning on Friday May 12th, the main portion of the festival will feature a week of classic samurai films.

The samurai film, known as ‘Chanbara’ - a sub-category if the jidaigeki genre, lends itself to tales of loyalty, revenge, romance, fighting prowess, and the decline of a traditional way of life. Starting in the 1960s, following the international festival successes of such directors as Akira Kurosawa and Masaki Kobayashi, samurai films began to captive moviegoers throughout the world, influencing filmmakers, musicians, and the public consciousness.

The festival will feature some of the greatest Samurai films of all time, including Akira Kurosawa’s Yojimbo & Masaki Kobayashi’s Cannes Film Festival Winner, Harakiri, both projected from 35mm film prints. Additionally, the festival will feature such films as the iconic tale of the blind swordsman in The Tale of Zatoichi, the epic revenge tale that inspired Kill Bill, Lady Snowblood, as well as cult favorites like Lone Wolf & Cub Part 1 & Part 2, and

Upcoming Screenings:

Shogun Assassin (1980)

Friday, May 12th at 7:15 PM

Harakiri (1962)

35mm Screening!

Saturday, May 13th at 7:00 PM

Lady Snowblood (1973)

Sunday, May 14th at 7:00 PM

The Tale Of Zatoichi (1962)

Monday, May 15th at 7:30 PM

Akira Kurosawa’s Yojimbo (1961)

35mm Screening!

Wednesday, May 17th at 7:30 PM

Lone Wolf And Cub: Sword Of Vengeance (1972)

Friday, May 19th at 9:30 PM

Lone Wolf And Cub: Baby Cart At The River Styx (1972)

its English dubbed re-edit, Shogun Assassin

The impact of these films on popular culture has been immense. Akira Kurosawa’s Yojimbo was remade twice by Sergio Leone and Walter Hill, into the films A Fistful of Dollars and Last Man Standing. It also inspired scenes in Star Wars, Samurai Jack, and was parodied on Saturday Night Live. Shogun Assassin served as an inspiration to the Wu-Tang Clan, with excerpts from the film featured on the iconic 1990s hip-hop album Liquid Swords Lady Snowblood was a major inspiration for director Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill saga.

You can purchase tickets or find more information about these and other events on the Cinema Arts Centre website: www.

Friday, June 16th at 9:30 PM

Location:

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave, Huntington, NY 11743

Fees per screening: $15 Public | $10 Cinema Arts Centre Members

cinemaartscentre.org.

The Cinema Arts Centre (CAC) is Long Island’s premiere, year-round, independent and international film showcase and its leading 501(c)3 not-for-profit community cinema. Located on Long Island’s North Shore, just an hour from Manhattan, the CAC is unique in scope and programming, with three state-of-the-art theaters, including a main theater holding nearly 300 seats. Founded by Vic Skolnick, Charlotte Sky and Dylan Skolnick in 1973, the CAC has over 10,000 members and serves approximately 150,000 individuals each year. For more information, please visit https://cinemaartscentre.org

—Submitted by the Cinema Arts Centre

Make the most of summer with the New York Baseball Academy.

Led by Hofstra Baseball head coach and 14-year MLB veteran Frank Catalanotto and his NCAA Division I staff, the New York Baseball Academy at Hofstra provides players with an opportunity to develop their skills through daily workshops, offensive and defensive technique instruction, and game play. With one through six weeks of instruction available, players can customize their camp experience around their schedules.

Learn more about the New York Baseball Academy at hofstra.edu/nyba

Still from The Tale of Zatoichi. 1962. Daiei Motion Picture Company. (Courtesy of Daiei Studios.)

Still from Harakiri. 1962. Shochiku. (Courtesy of Shochiku Entertainment, Co.)

UPCOMING SHOWS AT BELMONT PARK

FRIDAY, MAY 12

NICKELBACK

AUGUST 30

AEROSMITH

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

SEPTEMBER 17

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

30 MINUTES FROM PENN STATION OR GRAND CENTRAL VIA LIRR

ANITA BAKER

ANDRE RIEU

JOHN MAYER

JO KOY

All-You-Can-Eat Sushi And Round One

The first time I tried all-you-can-eat sushi was at a restaurant called Sushi Palace in Centereach. I was in high school, and I was absolutely blown away. Since Sushi Palace in Centereach has closed, my friend Brianna gracefully showed me her new favorite sushi spot, Machi Sushi in Selden. No matter where you live, it’s certainly worth the trip, because everything that’s placed on the table, and boy there will be a lot, is absolutely delicious. I’ve since brought my family there the night before Easter, as well as my boyfriend AJ on April 23. They all left very happy, and very full.

How it works at Machi Sushi is when you are seated, you are given a paper menu with a wide array of soups, salads, appetizers, side dishes and, of course, so much sushi. Whether you often go for sashimi, a simple sushi roll, or special rolls that can contain many ingredients from mangos and shrimp tempura to a generous topping of crab meat, you will certainly find something you like. You and your party check off the menu what you’d like, your waiter will take it and then what you ordered is brought to you. But of

course, it’s important to pace yourself, and only order what you and your party will eat.

Machi Sushi certainly stands out because they also offer hibachi. AJ said the steak hibachi from Machi Sushi is up there in the best steaks he’s ever had. Unfortunately, I can’t confer since I’m a pescatarian, but if you do venture to Machi Sushi, I would definitely recommend trying the Hawaii Roll.

After our sushi date, AJ and I joined our friends Erik and Shawlin for a double date at Round1, which is located in the Broadway Mall in Hicksville. Round1 is a very big arcade with claw machines, driving games,

shooting games, dance games, classic arcade games like air hockey and skeeball, exclusive games imported from Japan, and so much more. To play the games, you have to buy a card, as well as credits you can put on the card to use towards games. You can also purchase a time slot to play as many games as you’d like, but if you do that then you can’t play the games that you can win tickets with, like skeeball. You also can’t play the claw machines if you purchase the time slot. If you do win tickets, you can use them towards prizes. We had a lot of fun playing all kinds of

different games, and we were also amused by the dedicated gamers that flock to Round1. For example, we saw two young men who were playing many rounds of Dance Dance Revolution at the expert level. I could not believe how fast they were moving. They were so dedicated that they brought gym towels and an electric fan to cool themselves off with.

Round1 also has a bowling alley, billiards, karaoke rooms, ping pong, darts and food and drinks.

Overall, I’d say Round1 is a great time for all ages and for many occasions.

The arcade at Round1. (Photos by Jennifer Corr)

Just some of the amazing sushi rolls at Machi Sushi in Selden.

The Whaling Museum Celebrates Pride By Exploring Gender Expression In Maritime History

The Whaling Museum & Education Center is celebrating Pride Month this June with unique community programs throughout the month which explore gender roles and expression above and below the waves.

Dates and Programs Include:

• Gender at Sea (Virtual Lecture) on Thursday, June 8 at 7 p.m.

• Sensational Seahorses on Saturday, June 17. Drop in from 1-3 p.m.

• Dress Up at Sea on Thursday, June 29 at 2 and 4p.m.

The first of three programs being offered to celebrate Pride Month will be Gender at Sea, a virtual lecture exploring the intricacies of gender among crews of whaling and sailing ships. Museum staff will share historical photos and hidden stories of women secretly dressed as male mariners, and surprising tales of sailors who posed as gals for lighthearted entertainment for their crew members. The lecture will take place online on Thursday June 8 at 7 p.m. There is a $10 suggested donation. Registration is online at cshwhalingmuseum.org/events.

The second event is Sensational Seahorses on Saturday June 17. Geared for families with young children, participants

can drop in from 1 to 3 p.m. This science-based program will shine a light on several of 500 known species of fish with natural superpowers to change from male to female, or vice versa, such as clownfish. Museum educators will also share other surprises in the sea such as unusual parent shifts, shown in how male seahorses give

CULINARY PERFECTION IS COMING TO Sands

New York

Where would you like to dine tonight? At one of New York’s trend-setting establishments like Rao’s, Jean-Georges, or estiatorio Milos? Or possibly the culinary creations of celebrity chefs like Lorena Garcia and Tetsuya Wakuda will be more to your palette’s delight. Whatever exceptional culinary experience you can imagine, you’ll find it at the Sands’ planned Long Island destination resort.

Combined with the local restaurant scene, the Sands New York culinary experience will transform Long Island to a must-experience dining destination. Plus, Sands New York’s fivestar concierge service will be directing visitors to local restaurants, bars and attractions, benefitting the entire region.

birth to baby seahorses. Participants will create a colorful oceanscape diorama to keep as part of this educational program. The cost is museum admission + $10 participant; museum members are $5. Registration is not needed.

The third program, Dress Up at Sea, will take place during two sessions on Thursday, June 29 at 2 p.m. and 4p.m. Participants are invited to come in costume to this event. This family-friendly program explores the history of sailors dressing up at sea, where costumes have a long history of providing crewmembers with entertainment and cultural rituals. Participants will learn how mariners, including whalers and Navy crews, held “line-crossing ceremonies” when crossing the equator, where some crew members dressed as underwater queens and mermaids. Bella Noche, a drag artist with a mermaid persona, will perform her Drag Story Hour and read several books. Participants will decorate a ship wheel ornament craft to take home. The cost is museum admission + $10 participant; museum members are $5. Registration is online at cshwhalingmuseum.org/events.

“Our diverse history offers fascinating, and sometimes surprising, connections between

gender expression and maritime life,” says Nomi Dayan, Executive Director. “This special programming joins our ongoing roster of innovative events which explore our collection’s relevance in meaningful ways today and continues our museum’s role in building stronger communities.”

The Whaling Museum’s focus on supporting inclusion and promoting expanded narratives and perspectives are aligned with the American Alliance of Museum’s standards for excellence. The Museum engages in ongoing institutional planning to ensure its exhibitions and events present diversified narratives and provides opportunity for artistic voices to amplify the Museum’s core values of tolerance, acceptance and inclusion in its programming.

The Whaling Museum & Education Center is the only museum in the world open year-round which explores the whaling history of the Long Island region. The Museum engages the community in exploring the diversity of our whaling heritage and its impacts to enrich and inform our lives. The museum is located at 301 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724.

—Submitted by the Whaling Museum and Education Center

Men wearing feminine costumes were a part of shipboard culture and entertainment when crossing the equator.

(Photo Courtesy Special Collections & Archives, UC San Diego.)

WORD FIND

HOROSCOPES By Holiday Mathis

HOROSCOPES By

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 always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have pleted the puzzle, there will be 16 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). e intensity of a relationship will escalate. Your feelings may seem out of your control. But if emotions could be controlled, things like sad songs and comedy sets wouldn’t exist, and neither would art. You’ll nd relaxation and perspective in the world of entertainment.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). e discrepancy between the truth and the wish is a pain source. Can you close the gap by changing something about the reality? How might you adjust your expectation to bring it closer to the current state of things? Healing happens when the truth and the wish are in agreement.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). To lead the team, you don’t have to have all the answers -- or any of them! Strong posture and presence will take you far toward gaining trust, as will your observant, curious and decisive nature. You’ll ask the questions that reveal the best destination and route.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Don’t worry too much about the friction this week. It will happen whether you resist it or not, so you may as well lean into the good things about it. For instance, controversy means people care and will pay attention. Emotion could be unpleasant, but without it, life would be at and featureless.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). e process of acquiring excellent habits seldom occurs in one smooth, straight line. e dance of improvement is more often a jitterbug involving one step forward, two steps back, three steps forward and so on. Even when you are doing your best, results will be mixed. No matter what happens, love yourself.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You will move through various feelings about your individual identity and how your various roles connect to others. A sense of belonging can be very complex. It’s normal to feel whole on your own, even while sensing your interdependence. You’ll distinguish yourself and feel the joy of being part of a group, too.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). When you have the impulse to share, it tells you valuable information about who you feel you can trust, what you care about and why you feel more comfortable in some situations rather than others. is week, getting curious about how you choose to share yourself will lead to self-discovery.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). No matter how clever, huge or obvious your hints may seem to you, they won’t get you what you want this week. ere will be no better way than the direct route. Ask outright and be exact about it. Draw a picture, write down the speci cations -- whatever it takes to make your point, do it.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It would be great if people were strictly attracted to what’s best for them. Alas, the dance between desire and self-discipline creates tension. To admit you want a thing and lean into the feeling will relieve some of the tension, making it easier to move on from temptation. is week, you will want something, choose not to have it and then celebrate the victory.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your thoughts will tend to run away with you this week, which you can use to your advantage. Focus on the area that could use the bene t of wild imagination and lean into a positive tone. One idea leads to another, and soon you’re solving a problem, making change, creating your world.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ve let go unrealistic ideas before, so you know the rst step is to understand the realm of what’s possible. e trouble is, that’s almost impossible to tell right now, and you wouldn’t want to limit yourself by thinking small. For now, hang tight and keep watching. Don’t give up your dream.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You can move forward with con dence even if you’re not sure what to believe. e one thing you can really trust is your ability to learn and adapt. is week sees you as balanced and exible. It only takes a little open-mindedness to make way for enlightenment.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

You’re paid due respect this year and you’ll settle into your power. You’re remarkably centered in yourself, so your emotional climate feels consistently sunny. Relationships don’t have to be easy and smooth to be wonderful. Good times are a credit to your big heart and keen choice of company. You’ll be given gifts that can’t possibly be reciprocated because they are one of a kind. More highlights: You’ll accept that there’s much you’ll never know even while being celebrated in the ranks of the especially intelligent. A property purchase rises in value. Children bless your life.

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

Snow country

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 always in a straight line. Some letters are used more than once.) Ring each word as you find it and when you have completed the puzzle, there will be 16 letters left over. They spell out the alternative theme of the puzzle.

Snow country

FROM KING FEATURES SYNDICATE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 41st FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. 236

CONTRACT BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 2023

CONTRACT BRIDGE

Solution: Winter wonderland

5/3/23

By Steve Becker

Charting your course of play

queen, that’s something you should do only as a last resort.

You should first try to determine where the king of clubs is located. With this goal in mind, you win West’s trump return in your hand and lead the queen of diamonds. When West follows low, you go up with the ace, making a mental note that East has the king since West presumably would have covered the queen with the king if he had it.

Next you lead a diamond from dummy and ruff it. If East produces the king on the trick, which is likely, you have a much better picture of the missing high cards than you had at the start. You can now feel certain that West has the king of clubs, since he could hardly have opened the bidding as dealer without that card.

Assume you’re declarer at four spades and West cashes the K-A of hearts, then shifts to a low trump. You’re sure to lose one club trick, come what may, but you can’t afford to lose two. Situations like this occur frequently, and the problem is how to resolve them.

The one thing you should not do is stake the outcome solely on East’s holding the king of clubs. While it’s tempting to finesse the

Your only hope now is that West was dealt either the singleton or doubleton king of clubs. If he has three clubs to the king, you can pretty much kiss the contract goodbye. Accordingly, you lead a trump to dummy, ruff a diamond, cash the ace of clubs and play a low club.

As it happens, West must win with the king, and you wind up making the contract.

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS EMPLOYMENT

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Woman Arraigned For Allegedly Collecting $112K In Benefits

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Levittown woman was arraigned recently on charges she allegedly submitted fraudulent paperwork to collect $112,000 in public assistance benefits to which she and her family were not entitled. The defendant’s husband was also arraigned for allegedly submitting fraudulent paperwork claiming he and the couple’s child resided in the North Shore School District in order to enroll the child in kindergarten, when they in fact permanently reside in Levittown.

Terry Ann Powell-Bajwa, 45, was arraigned before Judge Jaclene Agazarian on charges including Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a C felony); Welfare Fraud in the Second Degree (a C felony); and five counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree (an E felony). The defendant pleaded not guilty and was released on her own recognizance. If convicted of the top charge, the defendant faces up to 5 to 15 years in prison.

Khurram Bajwa, 40, was arraigned before Judge Agazarian on two counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree. The defendant pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 1-1/3 to 4 years in prison.

The Nassau County Department of Social Services (NCDSS), Office of Investigations referred the case to NCDA.

“The defendant and her husband

already benefitted greatly from several lucrative government contracts awarded to their company, Tera Consulting, Inc., including a $2 million contract with Lockheed Martin, and yet, audaciously filed allegedly fraudulent paperwork, misrepresenting their wealth and family dynamics to receive public assistance benefits earmarked for vulnerable residents,” said DA Donnelly. “Khurram Bajwa also allegedly made further misrepresentations to get his child into the North Shore School District despite living in Levittown. NCDA will not tolerate brazen attempts by individuals to circumvent federal, state, or county processes for their own enrichment and at the expense of honest taxpayers.”

DA Donnelly said according to the charges, between 2017 and 2021, Powell-Bajwa allegedly submitted false information on applications and recertifications that she filed with NCDSS and the New York State Health Benefits Exchange (NYSHBE).

On applications submitted to NYSHBE and NCDSS beginning in 2016, Powell-Bajwa allegedly listed herself as single with two dependent children with an annual income of $23,600. The defendant also allegedly listed the father of her children to be absent from the household, her monthly income to be $1,750, and stated she owed a monthly mortgage payment of $2,650 that was in arrears.

The investigation revealed that Powell-Bajwa’s husband lived with the family in their Levittown home and worked as a manager

at Capgemini America, Inc. in the company’s Financial Services Business Unit in New York City. Between October 2016 and February 2020, Bajwa allegedly earned approximately $266,000. Moreover, analysis of relevant financial records showed that Powell-Bajwa not only kept up with her monthly mortgage payments, but also allegedly paid off the entire mortgage debt in 2022.

Powell-Bajwa also allegedly failed to report rental income for a two-family home that Bajwa owned and rented in Howard Beach, Queens.

Because of these omissions, Powell-Bajwa and her family allegedly received $112,112 from January 1, 2017, through September 30, 2021, in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Day Care Services, and Medicaid benefits to which they were not entitled.

Powell-Bajwa also allegedly failed to report that she was President and Chief Executive Officer of Tera Consulting, Inc. (TCI), a consulting, IT service solutions, and commodity distribution company,

and held an executive position in a home improvement business that she and her husband owned. Each company had corporate bank accounts and funds from those accounts were allegedly used to pay for expenses such as the defendant’s mortgage, utilities, and personal expenses.

It was revealed through the course of the investigation that Bajwa and Powell-Bajwa permanently resided in Levittown with their daughter, and as a result, their daughter would not have been permitted to enroll in the NSSD. NSSD spent approximately $50,000 on the child’s education.

The case is being prosecuted by Senior Investigative Counsel and Attorney-in-Charge of Public Assistance Fraud Christine Burke of the Revenue, Auto, Insurance and Labor Crime Bureau. The defendants are represented by Doug Reda, Esq. The charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless found guilty.

—Submitted by the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office

Hicksville High School Jazz Ensemble performing at the recent Battle of the High School Jazz Bands at NYCB Theatre in Westbury. (Contributed photo)

Hicksville High School Jazz Ensemble Performed At NYCB Theatre

Hicksville High School Jazz Ensemble recently performed at MADD’s (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Battle of the High School Jazz Bands competition at NYCB Theatre in Westbury. This is the second year MADD has coordinated the event and the first time the Hicksville Jazz Ensemble has auditioned to take part in the competition.

For consideration, groups were required to submit a five-minute audition piece judged by former music educators across Long Island. The Hicksville Jazz Ensemble submitted a recording of Stevie Wonder’s “Sir Duke” for their audition. Initially selected as an alternate, weeks later it was announced the Hicksville students would have the opportunity to perform at the Battle of the High School Jazz Bands.

The competition featured five top ensembles from high schools across Long Island. The grand prize for winning the event was

$1,000 and the opportunity to perform at Jones Beach Theatre in June.

The night of the event, the atmosphere at NYCB Theatre was electric and the Hicksville Jazz Ensemble kicked off the evening first performing their audition piece “Sir Duke” followed by a Dixieland/ Funk arrangement of “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

At the end of the night, the Hicksville High School Jazz Ensemble placed third, and the group’s lead tenor - player Nisarg Shah - received the Top Soloist Award.

The students were excited to be recognized as one of the top ensembles on Long Island after this experience. “It was truly exhilarating experience for everyone involved in this evening and all for a very worthy and good cause,” said Hicksville Supervisor of Fine Arts, Chad Wyman.

—Submitted by Hicksville Public Schools

Bethpage Students And Staff Showcase Music, Kindness And Fun

Bethpage’s Kramer Lane Elementary School was the meeting spot for the Bethpage Union Free School District’s board of education meeting recently. Kramer Lane

Principal Kerri McCarthy, along with some Kramer Lane students and staff, kicked off the meeting in the school’s all-purpose room by sharing some of the great programs and initiatives happening around the school.

McCarthy first introduced music teacher Nazli Todor who is the director of the Kramer Lane Jazz Band. The jazz band is a new ensemble at the school and is open to all fifth grade band students. Todor spoke about the outstanding musical talent at Kramer Lane and how she wanted to provide students with an additional musical challenge, as well as strengthen their musical abilities. The jazz band currently has 25 fifth grade members and they performed

for the board and the community during the meeting. Some members also shared their positive experiences being part of this new music ensemble.

Kramer Lane students and staff also presented on the school’s new Kindness Club, which is open to fourth and fifth graders. McCarthy introduced Kindness Club advisors Krysta Fink and Cynthia Cavallo and four Kindness Club members during the meeting. The students spoke about how the club has promoted kindness throughout the building this school year. For example, creating a buddy program among younger and older grades, making kindness rocks for the school’s rock garden, crafting kindness bracelets and sharing them with others, writing thank you notes for support staff and more.

—Submitted by the Bethpage Union Free School District

Wantagh Middle School Poets Step Up To The Mic

The word on the street was that if you went to Wantagh Middle School recently, you would have caught some amazing poems. That was in fact the case as the English department hosted its eighth celebration for National Poetry Month.

The Wisdom Lane Middle School Science Olympiad team walked away with several medals after competing against other schools from throughout the state. (Contributed photo)

Wisdom Lane Middle School Science Olympiad Competes At State Level

After capturing a third-place win at the regional level, the Wisdom Lane Middle School Science Olympiad team in the Levittown Public School District enjoyed a successful bout against other schools from throughout the state.

The Wisdom Lane Science Olympiad team competed in the New York State tournament in Syracuse on April 14 and 15. They excelled in six events for which they earned medals, placing them in 17th place among 250 schools.

Medal winners included Surya Das and Keira Panick in Anatomy and Physiology;

Noah Stern and James Bianco in Disease Detectives; Audrey LoPinto and Rachel Maurer in “Can’t Judge a Powder;” Athena Kong and Bhavanjot Bhatti in Forestry; Athena and Madison Espallait in Solar System; and Olivia Kim and Bhavanjot in Flight.

Teammates who also contributed to the top 20 in New York achievement included Rowanne Sy, Daphne Demitras, Paul Linias, Eva Popescu and Sam Kearney. The district congratulates all Wisdom Lane Science Olympiad team members on their success.

—Submitted by Levittown Public Schools

More than 30 students and teachers participated in Word on the Street, reading either individually or with a partner. They read original poems, song lyrics and selections from famous poets like Maya Angelou, Robert Frost and Shel Silverstein.

Eighth grade English teacher Christine Hult, who coordinated the event, said that this year had the largest number of participants since the annual literacy celebration started. She was also pleased that so many students chose to read original work. In eighth grade, students complete collections of free verse poems as part of a narrative poetry unit, and many decided to share one of those pieces.

Ms. Hult commended all of the participants for their willingness to read in front of a crowd, which is a big step for middle school students.

“When I see students step outside of their comfort zone,” she said, “it’s the greatest joy of teaching.”

The event featured a few student-teacher duos, as well as poetry readings from Prin-

Wantagh Middle School student Tommy Dillon and teacher Christen Bellucci shared the science-themed poem they co-authored at the eighth annual Word on the Street literacy celebration.

(Contributed photo)

cipal Anthony Ciuffo, Assistant Principal Rachel Quattrocchi and Director of Humanities Julie Rosslee.

The participants transformed the cafeteria into a poetry café with string lights and tablecloths. Art students, under the direction of Joanna Osman, created the city-themed backdrop. This year’s emcees were Sarah Garbowski and Andie Navetta.

—Submitted by the Wantagh School District

Kramer Lane students in school’s Kindness Club presented. (Contributed photo)

Bethpage Federal Credit Union Honored By Good Samaritan University Hospital

Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in the Northeast region, and the 14th largest in the nation, was named Good Samaritan University Hospital’s 2023 Community Partner Honoree at Good Sam’s 58th annual gala. The gala, held to recognize the generosity and contributions of its donors and partners, took place at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Linda Armyn, Bethpage’s Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, accepted the honor on behalf of Bethpage.

Since 2012, Bethpage has helped fund various Good Samaritan University Hospital initiatives including its signature community health program, Good Samaritan University, which works to educate community members about important health topics. Bethpage also recognized Good Samaritan University Hospital employees and their families through its Bethpage’s Health Care Heroes initiative, which was created after the start of the Covid pandemic. Bethpage has welcomed Good Sam employees and their families as VIP guests at the annual Bethpage Air Show

at Jones Beach. In 2022, a Good Samaritan patient and their family were also invited to Bethpage’s pre-show pilots dinner, where the patient’s dream of meeting the U.S. Navy Blue Angels came true.

“For nearly two decades, Bethpage Federal Credit Union has been a valued, supportive and generous partner to Catholic Health,” said Ruth E. Hennessey, Good Samaritan University Hospital President.

“Their relationship with Good Samaritan has benefited not only our employees, but also our patients. We are so pleased to be able to recognize them for their dedication to the shared communities we serve and for the special role they have played in acting as a resource for our staff.“

“Good Samaritan provides state-of-theart healthcare to Long Islanders and goes above and beyond to provide a higher level of patient focused healthcare. Bethpage is pleased to be able to provide its support, and very honored to accept this wonderful recognition,” said Linda Armyn.

—Submitted by the Bethpage Federal Credit Union

Walsh Welcomes Plainview-Old Bethpage Girl Scouts To Town Hall

(Contributed photo)

Assemblyman Durso Joins Colleagues For Tax Day Press Conference

New York State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park) recently joined members of the Republican Assembly Minority Conference at a Tax Day press conference to highlight the state’s poor economic policies which have placed a huge burden on New Yorkers.

High property taxes, income tax and sales tax have made New York an unaffordable place to live. On top of that, overspending and inflation have continued to climb – resulting in the current mass exodus of people from the state. Assemblyman Durso believes the best way to reverse this trend is to rein in the

radical spending and adopt commonsense policies that help hard-working families.

“Lawmakers in Albany need to provide relief for working families, homeowners, and local businesses to ensure New York is an economically viable state in the future,” said Durso.

“We cannot continue to work against those who are the backbone of New York’s economy. If tax and spend policies continue, more residents and businesses will flee to tax-friendlier states.”

—Submitted by Office of Assemblyman Michael Durso

Councilwoman Vicki Walsh recently welcomed Plainview-Old Bethpage Girl Scouts from Troops #3672 & #3673 to Town Hall in Oyster Bay. To earn their government badge, the girls learned about the role of the Supervisor & Town Board, the different branches of government and their purpose, and how Town Government operates. Councilwoman Walsh led the Troops on a tour of Town Hall and discussed the importance of community service, volunteerism, and doing good deeds to help others, including through Town programs like Dune Day and Beach Cleanups. For more information about scouting in the Town of Oyster Bay, please visit oysterbaytown.com/scouting.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Linda Armyn (left), Bethpage’s Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, accepted the honor on behalf of Bethpage. (Contributed photo)

L to R: Assemblyman Matt Slater, Assemblyman Ed Ra, Putnum County Executive, American City County Exchange (ACCE) National Executive Board Member Kevin Byrne and Assemblyman Michael Durso. (Contributed photo)

Special Olympics: Spring Games Coming To Farmingdale

Over 500 athletes will compete in an Olympics-style contest on May 6th.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that the Town will once again host the prestigious Special Olympics Spring Games in partnership with Special Olympics New York. Held at the Farmingdale Athletic Complex on Saturday, May 6th, the games will include a full-day of competitive track and field events for over 500 athletes supported by more than 300 coaches. These athletes - children and adults with intellectual disabilities - have dedicated months to training for an Olympic-style competition that will culminate with the contest during these Spring Games.

“Special Olympics are an opportunity to showcase the hard work, dedication, talents, and tremendous athletic achievements of athletes, while also paving the way to elimi-

nate social barriers and stereotypes differently-abled individuals face,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The Town of Oyster Bay is very proud to be a partner with Special Olympics New York and the Farmingdale School District in making this important event a reality. I hope you’ll join us in witnessing the joy, courage, and determination of these inspirational athletes.”

“Special Olympics New York provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, providing them a continuing opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, make friends, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families,” Diane Colonna, Vice President, Downstate Operations Special Olympics, New York said. “We are

honored that the Farmingdale School District will host our Spring Games and make a difference in the lives of these athletes.”

The event will be held on Saturday, May 6th at the Farmingdale Athletic Complex at Howitt Middle School. For more information on how to get involved, visit the school’s website at www.farmingdaleschools.org. If you are eligible to participate in the games, visit www.specialolympics-ny.org to register.

“This event would be impossible without the generosity of our sponsors, including Optimum, MSG Networks, and 7- Eleven, as well as the residents and volunteers who attend to cheer on these dedicated athletes. We hope to see you in the stands on May 6th to show your support for Special Olympics in our community. All are welcome!” Supervisor Saladino concluded.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Saladino, Imbroto Attend Bethpage Baseball Opening Day

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino (second from left) and Councilman Lou Imbroto (fourth from right) proudly supported Bethpage Baseball as they took to the field for Opening Day. In addition to wishing players a great season filled with fun, learning, and good sportsmanship, the officials honored the Bethpage Baseball Association’s 2022 LI Champion 10u Team for their success last year. Also in attendance was New York State Senator Steve Rhoads (first from left) and Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker (third from right).

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

(Contributed photo)

Men’s Tennis Locks Up Skyline

(Contributed photo)

Play Ball! Massapequa Challenger League Opening Day

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilwoman Laura Maier, and New York State Senator Steve Rhoads kicked off Massapequa Challenger League’s 2023 Season with an Opening Day celebration. This league provides special needs children and young adults with the opportunity to enjoy the full

benefits of Little League baseball at a level structured to their abilities All home games are played at John J. Burns Town Park in Massapequa on an artificial surface and in an enjoyable and safe environment to help develop players’ social skills and build self-esteem.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Led by victories in the top-two doubles and top-three singles flights, the Farmingdale State College men’s tennis team won its fifth-consecutive match Wednesday afternoon at the Brooks Stadium Tennis Courts, and clinched a first-round bye in next week’s six-team Skyline Conference Men’s Tennis Championship with a 6-3 decision at the United States Merchant Marine Academy.

Once again, the toptwo doubles flights carried the Rams (11-3, 5-1 Skyline) to an advantage to start play, with the No. 1 tandem of senior Mark Baker (Baldwin, N.Y.) and freshman Ryan Hendel (No. Merrick, N.Y.) earning their 10th-consecutive decision by an 8-3 count over Connor McQuade and RJ Novak of the Mariners (55, 3-3). Junior Alan Sabovic (Bohemia, N.Y.)

and senior Muhammad Sawar (Brentwood, N.Y.) followed suit in the second flight, capturing an 8-2 triumph against USMMA’s Tom Chairs and Demme Kraut. Baker (No. 1) and Sabovic (No. 2) have now won 11 and 10 straight singles matches, respectively, with Baker sweeping past Chairs by identical 6-0 scores. Meanwhile, Sabovic registered identical 6-3 set scores in his victory over Novak. Hendel’s fifth-consecutive singles win came at the No. 3 flight, 6-1 and 6-1, against McQuade, while senior Matthew Olkhovetsky (Great Neck, N.Y.) rounded out FSC’s scoring by gutting out an 11-9 decision in the third-set super tiebreaker at the No. 6 flight after swapping 6-4 sets with Brandom Bomboy.

Scenes from last spring’s Special Olympics hosted by Farmingdale School District. (Photo courtesy of the Farmingdale School District)

—Story courtesy of Farmingdale State College

Mark Baker (Contributed photo)

CULINARY PERFECTION IS COMING TO LONG ISLAND

Where would you like to dine tonight? At one of New York’s trend-setting establishments like Rao’s, Jean-Georges, or estiatorio Milos? Or possibly the culinary creations of celebrity chefs like Lorena Garcia and Tetsuya Wakuda will be more to your palette’s delight. Whatever exceptional culinary experience you can imagine, you’ll find it at the Sands’ planned Long Island destination resort.

Combined with the local restaurant scene, the Sands New York culinary experience will transform dining on Long Island to a must-experience destination. Plus, Sands New York’s five-star concierge service will be directing visitors to local restaurants, bars and attractions, benefitting the entire region. his is ust the start. There is much more to come.

Lorena Garcia Tetsuya Wakuda