Syosset–Jericho Tribune 3/06/24 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

Tuesday,

Wednesday,

Tuesday,

Learning Beyond A-B-Cs And 1-2-3s

Babies, toddlers, threes and preschoolers learn STEM at Jericho STEM Academy

JENNIFER CORR

The Jericho STEM Academy, located at 430 N Broadway in Jericho, goes above and beyond in teaching preschool students and younger science, technology, engineering and math.

The students learn STEM through lessons such as buoyancy, said Gail Linden, the Jericho STEM Academy office manager.

“It’s amazing what they’ve done,” Linden said. “And they’re young.”

There’s always something happening at the Jericho STEM Academy, Linden explained.

“Every holiday is celebrated,” Linden said. “We teach them about all the different religions, all the different holidays.”

Soon, the students will be observing Passover and Easter, as well as the birthdays of Mickey Mouse and Dr. Seuss.

“Every month we have certain days we celebrate,” Linden said. “We had the 100th day of school, when the preschool dressed up [as a senior.] We have after-school enrichment programs. We have taekwondo and chess. A chess master comes in and teaches them. We have dance. During the day, we have a piano teacher who comes in and gives lessons. We have a teacher on staff who does music and library. We have a lot of things going on. We have an indoor gym, an outdoor gym.”

Students learn about science, technology and engineering through approaches such as using a microscope to explore living and non-living things close-up, using robotics materials and blocks to design, test and build their own constructions and conducting science projects. And they learn math through Eureeka Math, a curriculum that promotes rigor, coherence, and focus to help students understand the why behind the numbers.

Even the babies in the infant’s program that was introduced

this year can learn through their educators as they lay the foundation on which a lifetime of skills, knowledge, and success can be built.

The program can begin as early as 7 a.m. through before-

care and can end as late as 6 p.m. with aftercare, where there is after-school enrichment.

The director, Ilene Morrin, grew up in Bayside Queens and has a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from SUNY New

Paltz and a Master’s degree in early childhood education from Queens College. She taught preschool at the Mid Island Y JCC for over 13 years.

“[She’s] very hands-on,” Linden said. “She’s here all the time and has been a teacher for many years, and we work with a curriculum. Everybody works with the curriculum; we have meetings, discuss what’s going on.”

According to the Jericho STEM Academy website, she helped introduce a curriculum to Long Island where students can learn STEM subjects through an approach called Balanced Learning. At Jericho STEM Academy, the entire staff is STEM-certified.

“It’s a very family-oriented group,” Linden said. “All the teachers have been with us for a long time. We’re all very close.”

Jericho STEM is opening a second school in September at 520 South Oyster Bay Road, Hicksville, called the Heart and Mind STEM Center. To learn more about the Jericho STEM Academy, visit www.jerichostem.com.

Syosset Boys Basketball Team Competes In Semifinals

COLE McDONNELL

editors@antonmediagroup.com

The Syosset Braves faced off against the Port Washington Vikings, on Feb. 25, in the semifinals of the Class AAA Nassau playoffs at Farmingdale State College. The Braves lost 66-56.

Syosset’s leading scorers were AJ AbuSaab and Will Pettinato, who both scored 14 apiece. The number one-seeded Vikings were led by senior Trevor Amalfitano, who scored 23 points, leading all scorers.

These two teams also met up in last year’s semifinals, Syosset kept it much closer than last year’s game but still came up short.

Despite making seven more

Syosset loses 66-56 to Port Washington

threes than the Vikings, Syosset couldn’t overcome the huge freethrow difference. Syosset had just three makes compared to Port Washington’s 21 free throws. Syosset’s Yassen Shaker made a quick layup to start the scoring but the next basket didn’t come until Jake Spinoso made an up-and-under layup four minutes into the game for the Vikings. Amalfitano added eight points in the first quarter helping the Vikings jump out to a 15-5 lead.

The Braves stormed back in the second quarter with four threes giving them a 17-16 lead. Pettinato hit three of his four threes in the opening barrage. Port followed that 12-1 run with a run of their own starting with a John Spinoso three; they ended the quarter on a 9-4 run giving them a 28-21 cushion going into halftime.

Syosset fell into their largest deficit allowing an 8-3 run starting in the third, 36-23. Toward the end of the quarter, Syosset showed some life after a tough Kyle Joe layup and the foul. Amalfitano drew a foul as time was ticking down at the end of the quarter quieting that short spark of life. The two free throws made the score 45-37 heading into the final period.

With help from Joe’s 10 second-half points, Syosset didn’t go away easily as AbuSaab hit a big three making the game 54-50, the closest the score has been since the second but they just couldn’t do enough to gain another lead since that quarter.

Syosset falls to 17-5 after another impressive season but came up short of Port Washington for the second straight season.

Will Pettinato scored 14 points including three three-pointers in the Nassau Class AAA Semifinals Game. (Photo by Cole McDonnell)

Children learn STEM subjects through activities such as playing with building blocks. (Photo courtesy the Jericho STEM Academy)

ERASE Racism Announces $200,000 Grant From Rauch Foundation

Scholarship in memory of its long-time Board Member and Sea Cliff resident John Wenzel

Laura Harding, President of ERASE Racism, based in Syosset, announced that the Rauch Foundation has made a $200,000 commemorative grant to ERASE Racism in memory of the Foundation’s longstanding Board Member John Wenzel, who died in late 2023. A resident of Sea Cliff, NY, on Long Island for more than 50 years, Wenzel was a member of ERASE Racism’s Advisory Committee.

With the funding, ERASE Racism will create two vital initiatives: a first-ever endowment for the organization, with this grant being used to challenge other donors to match it; and, a scholarship in John Wenzel’s name awarded annually to a deserving high school senior on Long Island exemplifying ERASE Racism’s commitment to racial justice. The funding will, therefore, support two passionate concerns of John Wenzel: the long-term fiscal strength of ERASE Racism; and, annual assistance to a deserving student in pursuing ongoing educational opportunities.

“ERASE Racism is greatly honored by this generous grant from the Rauch Foundation in honor of John Wenzel,” said ERASE Racism President Laura Harding. “John’s commitment to ERASE Racism, and this grant’s reflection of it, will have a catalytic effect in his name on both the near-term needs of students and our ongoing efforts to eliminate racial injustice and achieve educational equity.”

Wenzel, who turned 100 in April of 2023

and passed away in October, was associated with the Rauch family business from its earliest beginnings. After returning home in 1945 from Europe, where he served as a fighter pilot in the Italian front, he gradu-

ated from Swarthmore College and ended up working for David Rockefeller at Chase Manhattan Bank. When Chase asked him to relocate abroad, he made a career move and answered an ad for a position with the Ideal Corporation, a small Brooklyn manufacturing company founded by Philip Rauch Sr. in 1913. Over the years, Wenzel became president of Ideal and senior vice president at Parker Hannifin, the company that bought Ideal in 1971.

When the Rauch Foundation was established in 1961, John was a trusted advisor to the Board of Directors, who benefited greatly from John’s insight and wisdom. According to the Rauch Foundation’s Board Chair Nancy Rauch Douzinas, who worked closely with John, “his social passion was racial injustice and his voice consistently argued for improving the lives of Black Long Islanders and, in particular, the education of young children. At Ideal he took pride in being a mentor and helping to further the careers of talented, young, Black and Hispanic employees. Though he himself was a product of private schools, he argued forcibly that the best way to equalize opportunity and improve the education system would be to do away with all private schools. He believed that consolidating Long Island school districts would help to bring about integration on Long Island, not only in the schools, but in housing and communities. Equality was his most important issue, and

he always made his opinion known.”

One of the Rauch Foundation’s grant partners with which John was particularly involved was ERASE Racism. Founder and President Emeritus of ERASE Racism Elaine Gross remembers John’s commitment to ERASE Racism’s work and his involvement on our Advisory Committee: “I thoroughly enjoyed working with John. He was a person who lived his values and truly sought to make the world a better place for all people. He believed in Long Island, which many consider to be America’s first suburb, and its potential to become a model for the rest of the country. We are moved that the Rauch Foundation has selected ERASE Racism to receive this commemorative grant, and I am confident the organization will do everything it can to honor John’s memory.”

On the occasion of John’s 100th birthday, the New York Times featured a picture of John on the front page of the Metro section. The accompanying article spoke about his life, primarily his experience as a World War II fighter pilot who, after enlisting at 19 years old, went on to earn two Purple Hearts for extraordinary bravery and service to the country. As the article reveals, John never spoke of that period of his life, but, as he neared the end, he was overcome by sudden vivid nightmares that led him to a therapist who encouraged him to open up about his war-time experience.

—Submitted by ERASE

Racism

Lunar New Year Celebration With Jericho, Plainview And Syosset Civic Association

To commemorate the Year of the Dragon, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and his colleagues on the Town Board joined several Asian-American community organizations to host the Town’s annual Lunar New Year Celebration at Town Hall. The event featured traditional Chinese decorations, cuisine, and performances, in addition to a ceremony honoring leaders of the Asian-American community in the Town of Oyster Bay.

“Together we celebrate the Year of the Dragon which represents health, strength, and good fortune,” said Supervisor Saladino. “This celebration provides the ideal opportunity to celebrate organizations that work tirelessly to educate residents in our community

about Chinese-American culture and foster multicultural understanding.”

Organizations honored include Long Island Chinese American Association, Chinese American Association of Syosset, Chinese Association of Jericho, Plainview Chinese American Association, United Asian American Alliance, Suffolk Police Asian Jade Society, New York Turkish American Center, Taste of Asia, YAAAS TEA, Golden Dragon Revels Group, Yes I Can Performing Arts Center, Sitan Tai Chi, and The Fortune Star Band.

Community leaders honored include Gordon Zhang, Jiaxuan Li, Shan Che, Zimin Fu, Rachel Chung, Landy Lin, and Ibrahim Duman.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato, Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilman Louis Imbroto, and Councilwoman Vicki Walsh with Children from the Yes I Can Performing Arts Center. (Contributed photo)

The Rauch Foundation has made a $200,000 commemorative grant to ERASE Racism in memory of the Foundation’s longstanding Board Member John Wenzel, who died in late 2023.

(Photo courtesy ERASE Racism)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Blooms in Color Painting Class

Join the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. for a day of creativity. Learn the art of painting vibrant tulips with acrylics. The instructor will guide you through each brushstroke, helping you create a masterpiece to take home that captures the essence of stunning flowers. Fee is $5. Register online at syossetlibrary.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 10

Distinguished Artists: Mambo Loco

At the Jericho Public Library, 1 Merry Lane, at 2 p.m., Mambo Loco will play the best of old-school Latin and Latin Jazz. Make a reservation online at jericholibrary.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

St. Paddy’s Edition: Craft Charcuterie Made By Merry NY

Enjoy this mom & me Build-A-Board workshop at Krafty Hands in Syosset, 49 Ira Road, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Learn to create food art. Cost is $150 for one pair.

Something Rotten the Musical at The Cultural Arts Playhouse of Syosset See this comedy musical set in the Renais-

sance at 170 Michael Dr. in Syosset, starting at 8:00 p.m. Tickets start at $25.

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

The Day Trippers

At the Syosset Public Library, 225 South Oyster Bay Road, The Day Trippers will be performing at the theater from 1 to 2:15

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p.m. Celebrate the music of The Beatles! Register online at syossetlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 19

Spring Equinox Sound Bath and Meditation

Celebrate the Spring Equinox at Meta 180, 99 Cold Spring Road Ste 102A, Syosset. En-

joy a sound bath and be instructed through meditation at 7 p.m. Any level of experience is welcome, and mats are provided. Cost to register is $44.

Morning Mystery Book Discussion

Join the Syosset Public Library for a discussion of the 2016 mystery novel Magpie Murders by British author Anthony Horowitz. Books are available from the library at the circulation desk. The event is run by Reference Librarian Sonia Grgas. The discussion is held at the library starting at 11 a.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 26

Syosset Public Library 2024 Long Island Reads Book Discussion

Join Jackie Ranaldo, head of readers’ services at the Syosset Public Library, 225 S Oyster Bay Road, for an in-person discussion at 2 p.m. of the 2024 Long Island Reads selection Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World by Christian Cooper. Copies of the book will be available at the Circulation Desk one month before the program. No registration is needed.

THURSDAY, MARCH 28

Brother Dave at the Tap Room

Watch music performer Brother Dave live at the Tap Room, 1 Jericho Turnpike in Jericho, from 6 to 9 p.m. Music selections include blues, jazz, rock, grunge, and country. Enjoy music and food while checking out the new building for the Tap Room.

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Get crafty at the Syosset Public Library. (Image via Unsplash)

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Changes to workplace savings limits

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• $23,000 for those under age 50

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Blakeman Draws Backlash With Executive Order

Criticism rolls in over order targeting trans athletes

JENNIFER CORR JANET BURNS

jcorr@antonmediagroup.com

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is once again facing widespread criticism, particularly from local Democrats, after signing an executive order that seeks to block trans women and girls from participating in competitive sports across the county.

On Thursday, February 22, Blakeman held a small rally, with the stated intent to “protect girls’ sports,” before unveiling the executive order, which effectively prevents athletes in Nassau County who were assigned “male” at birth from participating in girls’ or women’s sports.

According to the order, “any sports, leagues, organizations, teams, programs, or sports entities must expressly designate [male, female, or co-ed] based on the biological sex at birth of the team members/participants when applying for a use and occupancy permit to utilize Nassau County Parks property for the purposes of organization a sporting event or competition.” It goes on to state that the Nassau County Department of Parts, Recreation and Museums “shall not issue any permits for the use and occupancy of Nassau County Park’s property for the purposes of organizing a sporting event or competition that allows athletic teams or sports designated for females, women, or girls to include biological males ... [but] may issue permits ... that allow athletic teams or sports for males, men, or boys to include biological females.”

That day and in the days that immediately followed, a long list of comments from local officials and groups condemning the order were made public (only some of which are included here).

“In a society that values freedom and opportunity, denying transgender and nonbinary athletes the chance to play on their school and community sports teams goes against the very essence of American principles,” said Devon Zappasodi, director of Long Island-based LGBTQ+ youth services and advocacy group PFY, in a statement.

Patricia Pastor, president of the National Organization for Women, Nassau County, commented, “Trans women are women. Trans girls are girls. Full stop. Blakeman’s thinly veiled attempt at publicity not only violates the spirit of fairness and inclusion in sports, but is a tired and long standing approach to divide us. We won’t let that happen. We stand with the Trans community today and always.”

Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement, “We’re proud New York has some of the nation’s strongest protections for the LGBTQ+ community and my administration

is committed to enforcing these laws.”

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti commented, “In recent years, we have seen repeated bigoted attacks on Long Island directed against the LGBTQ community and, luckily, our community has always rallied against it ... Directing vitriol toward children should not and can never be tolerated.”

State Assemblymember Charles Lavine commented, “Many of us know children who don’t fit into Bruce Blakeman’s crude mindset about sexual orientation and gender identity ... Shame on him for attacking those who can’t defend themselves.”

Legislator Arnold Drucker called the order “utterly reprehensible,” adding, “The equal protection of transgender people and other members of the historically marginalized LGBTQ+ community has been enshrined on the books in New York for years.”

feel included and accepted as anybody else. This also has an effect on all students ... policing this requires sometimes intrinsic questions and inspections and things like that, because sometimes it isn’t immediately clear who is, or who isn’t, trans. This really affects the privacy of all students.”

Trans women are women. Trans girls are girls. Full stop.

Patricia Pastor, president, National Organization of

Women Nassau County

Goldaper continued, “I’m heartbroken. New York is a place where transgender people have a lot of rights ... but it’s little things like this that cut away at the rights we do have. If I may, I think it’s also very interesting that once again, we find that trans women are particularly targeted by this law for this executive order, because I can’t help but notice that there’s no provision that says that trans boys can’t play in boys sports. And we once again have trans women like myself being treated as second-class citizens compared to even our other transgender peers.”

for her and her family, both before and after her own transition, until that feeling was “shattered” by recent events.

“Blakeman and [Legislator Samantha] Goetz’s press conference was a total repudiation of the humanity of trans people, implying that we are cheaters, liars, and bullies. The message is obvious ... the Nassau County GOP is going full bore on the anti-trans moral panic. And it is nothing but a moral panic.”

“In the decades where trans women have been playing sports with other women, we haven’t dominated, or even generally been that competitive. Contrary to Legislator Goetz’s claims, the biological process of transition serves to nullify the so-called advantages. But even dominant trans athletes don’t deserve these restrictions. We deserve to be accepted for who we are and not treated with scorn.”

Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton commented that Blakeman “has been more interested in self promotion and spending public money on private golf outings, swanky galas and unrelated press conferences - such as [this] focus on legislating little leagues, which has nothing to do with his responsibilities.”

Bobby Hodgson, the New York Civil Liberties Union’s director of LGBTQ rights litigation, called the order “illegal” and “cynical,” adding “Requiring girls who are trans to compete on boys’ teams effectively bars them from sports altogether.”

Rebecca Goldaper, an English teacher at Glen Cove High School and an advisor to the Glen Cove High School Genders and Sexuality Alliance, commented to Anton Media Group, “Obviously, transgender students are a very small percentage of students, but they have as much right to play sports and to be included in a way that makes them

During a public comment session at the Nassau Legislature on the Monday following the rally and the signing of the executive order, several local residents weighed in on or made reference to the order. All spoke against it, all were women, and most were clearly angry or upset.

“What happened to Nassau County?” one woman asked. “This is not how you were raised ... you’re not serving the people of Nassau County. Do your duty!”

Another said that Blakeman was frequently “off fighting culture wars whenever he can get an audience,” and advised legislators to review a particular county statute, which allows for the removal of a county exectutive, before asking, “Does this stuff make you proud?”

Oceanside resident Dawn Tauster spoke calmly but passionately about how Nassau County had felt like a safe, welcoming place

Tauster continued, “And for Blakeman and Goetz to call trans people bullies, the very same week that news broke of the assault on and death of Nex Benedict, a [gender nonconforming] teen in Oklahoma, it’s clear that they want this county to be as hostile and harmful to trans people as any other.”

“After all, if they think I’m a lying, cheating, dangerous bully, what other rights of mine will they seek to take away?”

She concluded, “You will not take my rights without a fight, and that is a fight that you will lose.”

On March 1, New York Attorney General Letitia James followed up on her February 22 statement (which called the order “transphobic” and said her office was exploring its options) by demanding that Blakeman rescind the order. The same day, Blakeman said at a press conference that Nassau County “will abide by the law,” but also that his office believes the order is legal, and that “there may be a controversy with respect to this matter, which may have to be adjudicated sometime in the future.”

Juli Grey-Owens, executive director of Gender Equality New York, speaks to press during a protest outside the Nassau Legislature on February 22.

Dawn Tauster addressed the Nassau Legislature during a public comment period on February 22.

(Photos by Anton Media Group)

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WWesthampton Beach

hile Saint Patrick’s Day was originally a day of religious observance, services and feasting in honor of Saint Patrick, in the United States it has become a day of secular celebration of Irish culture. Here are a selection of parades across Long Island. (Note: dates and times are subject to change. Double check before making plans.)

SATURDAY MARCH 9, 2024

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @12pm

Starts at the corner of Oneck Lane and Mill Road (at the Middle School)

Bay Shore/Brightwaters

Saint Patrick’s Day Parades Across Long Island

GRAND MARSHAL Patti Ziparo-Dalton

Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

Parade steps off from Saxon Avenue and Main Street, left on Main Street/Montauk Highway.

GRAND MARSHAL Reverend Seán Gann, Pastor of St. Patrick Church

Cutchogue

18th Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

The parade will march from the Traffic light at Cox Lane, down Route 25 ending in Cutchogue Village.

GRAND MARSHAL Paul Drum

St James

40th Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @1pm Parade starts along Woodlawn Ave. to Lake Ave. to the train station.

GRAND MARSHAL Peter Scully

New Hyde Park

3rd Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @10am Parade route along Jericho Turnpike eastbound from Hillside Blvd to the Fire Headquarters at Terrace Blvd.

GRAND MARSHAL Tony Jackson

..............

SUNDAY MARCH 10, 2024

Huntington Village

90th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

The parade starts north of Huntington train station along New York Avenue onto Main Street. The Huntington St. Patrick’s Parade is Long Island’s oldest and largest and features dozens of pipe bands, including some of the metro area’s finest.

GRAND MARSHAL Monsignor Steven Camp

Rocky Point /Miller Place

71st Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @1pm

The festivities begin in Miller Place on the corner of 25A and Harrison Avenue. From

there, local fire departments lead the marchers eastward, ending at the corner of Broadway and North Country Road in Rocky Point

GRAND MARSHAL Vincent Worthington

Bayport/Blue Point

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @11am

Parade runs from Montauk Hwy & Snedecor Ave to Montauk Hwy & Blue Point Ave

GRAND MARSHAL Mr. “Ronnie” Devine, Jr.

Center Moriches

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

Straight down Main Street from Lake Ave to Railroad Ave.

GRAND MARSHAL George Keller

Farmingdale

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

Parade down Main Street to Northside

Elementary School

GRAND MARSHAL Patrick J Ryder

Get out your green and get your leprechaun on

SATURDAY MARCH 16, 2024

New York City

St. Patrick’s Day Parade @11am

New York City Fifth Ave. from 44th St. to E. 79th St., New York, NY

NYCStPatricksParade.org

GRAND MARSHAL Maggie Timoney

SUNDAY MARCH 17, 2024

Wantagh

4th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

The largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Long Island will be led by GRAND MARSHAL John Theissen

Patchogue Village

Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @12pm

The parade starts at the intersection of East Main Street and Route 112 and heads west with the viewing stand located at the intersection of Havens Ave and West Main.

JOINT GRAND MARSHALS Reese’s Owners Matt Lowe and Joe Palmeri

Glen Cove

36th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @1pm Parade forms alongside the Finley Middle School, on Forest Ave, north of Dosoris Lane, then down Forest Ave south of Dosoris, down Brewster Street to School Street to Glen Street, ending at St. Patrick’s Church.

GRAND MARSHAL Christine Rice

..............

SATURDAY MARCH 23, 2024

Am O’Gansett

St Patrick’s Day Parade @12pm

Billed as the “WORLD’S SHORTEST PARADE,” steps off at Mary’s Marvelous and ends at the Stephen Talkhouse on Main Street.

GRAND MARSHALS Sal and Joe LaCarrumbba

Brentwood Annual

St Patrick’s Day Parade @1pm Starts on the corner of Washington Ave/Clark

Street and ends at Ross Park/Brentwood Rd.

GRAND MARSHAL Councilman John C.

Cochrane, Jr.

Rockville Centre

28th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @12pm

Starting Point: The Municipal Parking Lot on North Sunrise Hwy.

GRAND MARSHAL Greg Schaefer

Lindenhurst

3rd Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @12pm Starts at Fireman’s Mèmorial Park 555 Heling Boulevard. Travels west on Hartford Street to North Wellwood Avenue. Turns south down Wellwood Avenue and end at Lindenhurst

Middle School, 350 South Wellwood Avenue.

GRAND MARSHAL – Kevin J McCaffrey ..............

SUNDAY MARCH 24, 2024

Montauk

62nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Sunday @12pm

The parade runs up Edgemere Street and then turns on to Main Street.

GRAND MARSHAL Steve “Puck” Dolan

Ronkonkoma

34th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm

The parade will start on Hawkins Ave. at School Street, head South down Hawkins Ave ending at Thorne Street.

GRAND MARSHAL Greg Plante

Babylon Village

Second St. Patrick’s Day Parade @2pm Deer Park Ave starting at Lily Flanagan’s, heading south to Main Street , West Carll Ave to Locust Ave. ending at the Hibernian Hall.

GRAND MARSHAL Niall Crowe

SATURDAY MARCH 30, 2024

Jamesport

St. Patrick’s Day Parade @1pm Begins at North Railroad and Washington Avenues, and ends at the Jamesport Fire House.

JOINT GRAND MARSHALS Leanne Simonsen and Linda Simonsen

SATURDAY APRIL 6, 2024

Bayside, Queens

7th Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade @1pm Marching down Bell Blvd from 35th Ave. to 42nd Ave.

GRAND MARSHAL Sean Lane

—From Long Island-Nassau/Suffolk St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Snapshots from the 2023 parade, courtesy of the Village of New Hyde Park

year’s Glen Cove parade (Photo by Jennifer Corr)

I didn’t realize how much I missed seeing birds outside my house until they started to show up a week after I put up a feeder stand in Durham, North Carolina, where I am renting a town house for three months in order to visit my granddaughters. I was wondering after several days whether any birds would show up but I know from experience it may take a few days for birds to realize there are feeders.

When the Eastern bluebirds, Carolina chickadees, house finches and one female purple finch started visiting I was thrilled. I had just returned from 4 days of a bird trip to the North Carolina coast and saw many birds but now having them close by is so enjoyable.

The single feeder station in the photograph has 4 feeders attached. Two have suet-the cage contraption at the top and the other cage hanging. The store-bought suet at the top has red pepper in it to discourage squirrels and raccoons. The hanging suet holder has a cage so only small birds can enter and eat the suet. Therefore that suet doesn’t need to have red pepper. The hanging platform is preferred by some birds. If you use a platform you need a baffle on the pole and you should not have any hanging tree branches that enable squirrels to jump onto the platform. The large hanging feeder is called a

squirrel buster because when a squirrel lands on the ring it closes the feeding ports. Birds are much lighter and when they land on the ring they don’t close the ports. The photo with many feeders also dispenses peanuts.

I recommend one kind of seed in each seed feeder. In the squirrel buster I use black oil sunflower seed with shells in North Carolina but in my yard in Port Washington I use sunflower seeds without shells. That’s because when the shells fall on the ground the surrounding plants will suffer because of something in the shells that inhibits their growth. But in this place in North Carolina there are only dead leaves on the ground around the feeders.

I have a separate feeder station in New York for the platform feeders and I use sunflower seeds with

shells because those feeders are over lawn and I don’t care if the lawn suffers. If you have several kinds of seed in one feeder, the birds push out the seed they don’t want and that can make a mess even with many birds that like to eat seeds on the ground. I see all types of birds eat the sunflower seeds. There are lists on the Internet indicating which birds like which seeds. From experience I find that sunflower seeds attract many different birds. Suet cakes attract many different birds as well.

I usually have a small water fountain going if there is an outdoors outlet. The sound of water also attracts birds. In winter that may be impractical. I once had a small ceramic fountain crack and break from water freezing in cold weather. Near the feeder station it is useful to have small bushes for birds to shelter in case of predators.

There are some people who think birds should not be fed in

warm weather but the parent birds need all the help they can get when feeding young. Another problem could be the spread of disease. Always clean your feeders regularly. Squirrel buster fits in the dishwasher. People have found rats a problem since they are attracted to the seeds. When I see a rat I set out a dish containing cocoa, sugar, water and baking powder. This actually kills rats but doesn’t harm other animals.

If you have any questions contact me at nsaudubonsociety@gmail. com. I will be giving a talk on bird identification and I also talk about feeding stations at the Bryant Library in Roslyn on April 13 at 1 pm.

If you have not done so already, be sure to make plans for the solar eclipse on April 8. Our area will see approximately 90 percent coverage. If you want to view the most complete eclipse, you will need to travel. Accommodations have booked up quickly, including a Delta flight that will carry passengers along a special route for the best viewing. Wherever you decide to view it, use protective eyewear or an eclipse viewer.

March 10 - New Moon. The Moon will be located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the night sky. This is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.

March 19 - March Equinox. The Sun will shine directly on the equator and there will be

nearly equal amounts of day and night throughout the world. This is also the first day of spring (vernal equinox) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of fall (autumnal equinox) in the Southern Hemisphere.

March 24 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation. The planet Mercury reaches greatest eastern elongation of 18.7 degrees from the Sun. This is the best time to view Mercury since it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the planet low in the western sky just after sunset.

March 25 - Full Moon. The Moon will be located on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun and its face will be fully illuminated. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Worm Moon because this was

the time of year when the ground would begin to soften and the earthworms would reappear. This moon has also been known as the Crow Moon, the Crust Moon, the Sap Moon, and the Lenten Moon.

March 25 - Penumbral Lunar Eclipse. A penumbral lunar eclipse

occurs when the Moon passes through the Earth’s partial shadow, or penumbra. During this type of eclipse the Moon will darken slightly but not completely. The eclipse will be visible throughout all North America, Mexico, Central America, and South America.

—Information from seasky.org

Additional

(Image from NASA.gov)

Di erent types of feeders, some with designs meant to discourage squirrels.

Dark-eyed junco, a common backyard feeder bird, and an uncommon purple nch behind it. (Photos by Peggy Maslow)

There once was a woman of humble means who purchased the cheapest crib she could find for her newborn baby. Right behind her in the store aisle was another woman and her mother, who purchased the most expensive crib and stroller the store had to offer. In her heart, the poor woman was jealous and wished she had the money to buy something so beautiful. Until, that is, she got to the register and overheard a conversation between the two of them.

“Do you think the crib we’re buying will fit in the room?” the mother asked her daughter. “I’m not so sure it will. The baby is on oxygen and life support, after all. I don’t know if the crib will fit alongside all those big machines.” When the woman heard this, she said to herself in relief: “Thank our Creator I have a healthy baby! That’s a better gift than the fanciest crib and stroller!”

“You shall not covet your neighbor’s house: you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or male or female slave, or ox or ass, or anything that is your

COLUMNS

Coveting And Its Consequences

neighbor’s.” (Exodus 20:14)

The scripture tells us the story of the ancient Israelites gathering at Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments. These commandments form the moral basis of our world societies ethical system. The tenth commandment, however, raises a difficult issue. This commandment – Thou shall not covet – forbids any kind of envy over who our neighbor is or what our neighbor owns. We shall not covet our neighbor’s home, wife, husband, servants, animals, or anything they possess. Here we find a

commandment that forbids us from even thinking about our desires. One might ask: “Can I even follow this?”

If my neighbor drives up in a brand-new BMW and I look over at my beat-up old Subaru, is it not natural for me to feel a bit of envy? In the Ethics of our Ancestors chapter 4, our Jewish tradition proclaims, “Who is rich? Whoever is happy with their lot.” This is a noble idea, but can we as human implement it?

Some of the biblical commentators’ view that this last commandment is only a warning against inappropriate actions –such as stealing an item that we covet —and not inner feelings. But that doesn’t truly sit well upon reflection because the commandment is speaking about an inner feeling – that of desire. So how can this be reconciled?

Many biblical commentators struggled with reconciling this commandment. One answer that illustrates via a parable was given that just as a simple peasant

would not covet a beautiful princess, as she is far out of his league, so we won’t covet something that is impossible for us to get, since it’s not ours and isn’t available to us. Perhaps we should view this commandment in a positive

light. Rather than coveting our neighbors and their possessions we might just endeavor to better ourselves; see what we lack in order to reach new

Call Before You Dig...Ya’ Dig?

National Safe Digging Month has begun and PSEG Long Island takes the occasion to remind customers, contractors and excavators to always call 811 before digging to ensure underground pipelines, conduits, wires and cables are properly marked out.

Every digging project, even a small project like planting a tree or building a deck, requires a call to 811. It’s the law. The call is free and the mark-out service is free. The call must be made whether the job is being performed by a professional or a do-it-yourselfer. Striking an underground electrical line can cause serious injury and outages, and result in repair costs and fines.

According to Common Ground Alliance, a member-driven association of nearly 1,800 individuals and 250 member companies in every facet of the underground utility industry, 40 percent of active diggers in North America do not call 811 because they think their project is too shallow to require it. All digging projects require a call to 811.

A free call to 811 in the service area automatically connects the caller to the local New York one-call center, which collects information about digging projects. The one-call center then provides the information to the utility companies, which send representatives to mark the locations of nearby underground lines with flags, paint or both. Once lines have been properly marked and confirmation from all of the utility owners is received, projects may proceed as long as caution is used around the marked areas.

• Calling 811 before digging reduces the chances of damaging an underground line to less than one percent.

• Underground gas and electric lines are everywhere, even on private properties. These facilities can be easily damaged if dug into, with the potential to cause serious injuries. Digging into these lines can also disrupt vital utility services, resulting in costly delays, expensive repairs and

environmental or property damage.

• Whether the job is a major home improvement project or something as simple as a fence or mailbox post, a call to 811 must be placed beforehand to determine where it’s safe to dig.

• Call 811 at least two business days before the commencement of each job to have underground pipes, wires and equipment located. Each facility owner must respond by providing the excavator with a positive confirmation indicating that marks are in place where utility lines are buried or that there are no existing facilities in the area of the proposed work. This service is free of charge.

• Be sure to wait until all of the utilities have responded. Don’t dig until lines have been marked or you have received confirmation that the area is clear of facilities.

• Property owners must maintain and respect the marks. Always hand dig within two feet of marked lines to find the existing facilities before using mechanized equipment.

• If gas lines are damaged or there is a gas smell when excavating, call 911 immediately from a safe area. Calling before you dig is more than a good idea−it’s the law. Additional information, including a booklet on safe excavating practices and the protection of underground facilities, can be found on the PSEG Long Island website (www.psegliny.com).

—PSEG Long Island

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

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

Underground lines should be marked even for routine gardening jobs.

(Photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash)

Choosing A Home Health Care Aide

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Choosing a home health care aide is a critical decision that significantly impacts the quality of life of your loved one requiring care. It involves a thoughtful assessment of needs, preferences, and the qualifications of potential caregivers. This comprehensive guide aims to navigate you through the process, ensuring that you make an informed and compassionate choice that best suits your family’s needs.

Understanding the Need

The first step in choosing a home health care aide is to clearly understand the specific needs of your loved one. These needs can range from basic assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation to more specialized medical care, including medication management, wound care, or physical therapy. Consulting with healthcare professionals can help you delineate the level of care required and whether you need a certified nursing assistant (CNA), a licensed practical nurse (LPN), or a registered nurse (RN).

Establishing Criteria

Once you have a clear understanding of the care needs, consider other criteria that are important for your family. This might include the aide’s availability (e.g., live-in, daily visits, overnight stays),

language skills, ability to operate medical equipment, or experience with specific conditions like dementia or mobility issues. Additionally, think about personality traits that would make the caregiver a good fit for your loved one, such as patience, compassion, and a sense of humor.

Researching Options

Research is pivotal in finding a reputable home health care provider. Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare professionals. Online reviews and ratings of local agencies can also provide valuable insights. When contacting agencies, inquire about their hiring processes, training requirements, and how they match caregivers with clients. It’s also important to understand how they handle replacements or emergencies.

Understanding Legal and Financial Obligations

Hiring a home health care aide comes with legal and financial considerations. If hiring through an agency, clarify the costs upfront, including hourly rates, overtime, and any additional fees. Understand the agency’s policy on insurance and liability coverage. If hiring independently, you’ll need to address tax obligations, workers’ compensation, and creating a formal employment agreement. Consulting with a legal or financial advisor can help navigate these complexities.

Checking References and Backgrounds

For each potential aide, request references from previous employment and conduct a thorough background check. This should include verifying certifications and checking for any criminal history. References can provide insights into the caregiver’s reliability, work ethic, and ability to form meaningful connections with those they care for.

Interviewing Candidates

Whether you’re working with an agency or hiring independently, interviewing potential aides is a critical step. Prepare a list of questions that cover their experience, qualifications, and approach to caregiving. Ask scenario-based questions to gauge their problem-solving abilities and compatibility with your loved one’s needs. It’s also beneficial to include your loved one in the process to ensure they feel comfortable and respected in the decision-making.

Communication and Evaluation

Effective communication is the foundation of a successful caregiver relationship. Establish regular check-ins with the aide and your loved one to discuss care plans, changes in health status, and any other concerns. Be open to feedback and willing to adjust care arrangements as needed. Regularly assessing the quality of care and

the satisfaction of your loved one ensures that the home health care aide continues to meet your expectations.

Trial Period

Before making a long-term commitment, consider arranging a trial period. This allows your loved one and the caregiver to adjust to each other and ensures that the aide’s skills and personality are a good fit. Use this time to communicate expectations clearly, establish routines, and address any concerns that arise.

Signs of a Good Match

A good home health care aide not only meets the physical needs of your loved one but also provides emotional support and companionship. Signs of a successful match include noticeable improvements in your loved one’s mood and health, strong communication from the caregiver, and a sense of trust and security in the care provided. Choosing a home health care aide is a deeply personal and significant decision that affects the well-being of your loved one. By thoroughly understanding the care needs, conducting diligent research, and maintaining open lines of communication, you can find a compassionate and competent caregiver. Remember, the right home health care aide can transform the caregiving experience, offering not just assistance, but also dignity, independence, and improved quality of life for your loved one.

BY ANTON MEDIA GROUP specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Tick bites are a common concern for individuals spending time in wooded or grassy areas, where ticks are most prevalent. These small, blood-feeding arachnids can transmit various diseases to humans, making it essential to understand the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of tick bites.

Symptoms of Tick Bites

Initially, a tick bite may be hard to notice as ticks are tiny, and their bites are usually painless. The first sign might be a small red spot at the site of the bite, which can occur anywhere on the body. However, not all tick bites lead to disease, and symptoms can vary depending on the type of tick and whether it was carrying pathogens.

When disease transmission occurs, symptoms can appear days to weeks after the bite and might include a rash (one of the first signs of a tick-borne disease), The rash can vary in appearance, notably the bull’s-eye rash associated with Lyme disease. Other symptoms include: fever, chills, aches, pains (headaches, fatigue

Stay Tick-Free Tips for protecting your health

and muscle or joint aches) and swollen lymph nodes.

It’s crucial to monitor for symptoms if you’ve been bitten by a tick or spent time in areas where ticks are common.

Treatment of Tick Bites

The key to treating tick bites is prompt and proper removal of the tick. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting or jerking the tick, which can cause parts of the tick to break off and remain in the skin. After removal, clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

If you develop symptoms after a tick bite, seek medical attention. Treatment

typically involves antibiotics, especially if a tick-borne disease like Lyme disease is suspected or confirmed. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious health issues.

Prevention of Tick Bites

Preventing tick bites is the most effective way to avoid tick-borne diseases. Here are key strategies for prevention: Avoid Tick Habitats Whenever possible, stay away from wooded, bushy, or grassy areas. Stick to the center of trails when hiking.

Use Insect Repellent

Apply repellents that contain 20 to 30 percent DEET on exposed skin and clothing. Products containing permethrin can be used on clothing, shoes, and

camping gear.

Wear Protective Clothing

Long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks or boots can help keep ticks off your skin. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.

Check for Ticks

A fter spending time in tick-infested areas, thoroughly check your body, children, and pets for ticks. Pay special attention to underarms, in and around ears, inside the belly button, backs of knees, in and around hair, between legs, and around the waist.

Shower Soon After Being Outdoors

Showering within two hours of coming indoors can help wash off unattached ticks and provides a good opportunity to do a tick check.

Treat Pets

Use tick treatments on pets, which can be tick carriers into your home. By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of tick bites and the potential transmission of tickborne diseases. Awareness and proactive measures are key in protecting yourself and your loved ones from the risks associated with ticks.

We know you. We focus on every detail, including your other health conditions and emotional and physical needs. We know cancer. We combine extensive clinical expertise and advanced technologies to create truly comprehensive and innovative care. We know your cancer™ . Leaving no stone unturned, we start with the genetic makeup of your tumor and consider every factor to provide a highly personalized care plan. It’s because we know that considering all the details can add up to a life-changing difference.

HHepatitis B: Unveiling The Silent Threat To Liver Health

Understanding the virus, risks, and preventive measures

epatitis B is a virus that affects the liver and can lead to both acute and chronic disease.

In infected patients, the hepatitis B virus can be found in most body fluids including blood, semen, urine, vaginal secretions, and tears. Contact with these fluids may lead to infection. In the United States, the most common risk factors for hepatitis B are sexual contact and intravenous drug use. Perinatal or transmission from mother to child at time of birth is the most common way of acquiring hepatitis B in the Far East. Hepatitis B is a tremendous problem in China, Taiwan, Korea, and the Philippines with rates of disease approaching ten percent of the total population. This helps to explain the increased prevalence of hepatitis B among Asian populations in the United States.

Common symptoms of hepatitis B include fatigue, malaise, loss of appetite, nausea, joint pains

States, however, approximately five percent of people with acute hepatitis B will develop chronic disease. Approximately 95 percent of people who acquire hepatitis B via the perinatal route will develop chronic hepatitis B.

There is an increased risk of all close contacts of patients with hepatitis B acquiring hepatitis B at home. Therefore, once a patient has been diagnosed with hepatitis B, all household contacts must be tested for the infection. If not previously exposed or vaccinated, these contacts should receive vaccination against the hepatitis B virus.

hepatitis B.

Treatment is not recommended for the majority of acute hepatitis B infections. Most patients do not require admission to a hospital. Jaundice, although cosmetically concerning, is not life threatening. If vomiting, confusion or easy bruising develops, patients should call their doctors immediately. On rare occasions, acute hepatitis may be severe enough to require emergent liver transplantation.

and abdominal pain. People with hepatitis B may develop jaundice or yellowing of the skin, lowgrade fevers and/or rash. After exposure, the incubation period for hepatitis B is two weeks to three months. The vast majority of people who acquire hepatitis B will get over the disease and have no long-term effects. In the United

Hepatitis B is diagnosed by evaluating specific antibodies and antigens in the blood. A positive hepatitis B surface antigen is diagnostic of hepatitis B infection. Many patients are confused and concerned when their blood tests reveal a positive hepatitis B surface antibody. This simply means past infection or previous vaccination. It does not mean that the person has

Treatment is available for chronic hepatitis B. Hepatitis B can be controlled with these treatments but hepatitis B cannot be cured. Patients with chronic hepatitis B are at risks for developing liver cancer and cirrhosis and should be screened at regular intervals for these complications.

Hepatitis B vaccine is available for all age groups. The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all infants, all children, or adolescents younger than 19 years of age who have not been vaccinated, all adults

aged 19 through 59 years, and adults

aged 60 years or older with risk factors for hepatitis B infection.

David Bernstein, MD, MACG, FAASLD, AGAF, FACP, is a professor of medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and the director of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Ambulatory NetworkLong Island for NYU Langone Health.

Diabetics Should Heed FDA’s Smart Device Warning

consequences. If left untreated, very high or very low blood sugar can be extremely dangerous and cause severe complications, even coma and death.”

The FDA warned recently diabetes patients not to use smartwatches or smart rings to measure their blood glucose levels. Now, obesity medicine expert Eleanor Yusupov, D.O., assistant professor at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) in Old Westbury, is sharing insight for these patients.

Instead, she advises patients with diabetes to use continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, which are approved by the FDA and provide accurate information on how a patient’s body reacts to diabetes medications and foods eaten. Depending on the specific CGM device used, physicians may even program it to set off an alarm when blood sugar is dangerously high or low.

While many of these devices are marketed as noninvasive solutions, allowing users to measure their blood glucose levels without pricking the skin, Yusupov notes that the FDA has not authorized, cleared, or approved any noninvasive smartwatch or smart ring for the measurement of glucose. What’s more, relying on these devices could have life-threatening consequences.

“It is very concerning that patients may be misled by the marketing claims and rely on smartwatches or smart rings that do not accurately measure blood glucose,” said Yusupov. “Using devices that are not approved by the FDA may lead to serious health

“Your doctor can recommend and prescribe a continuous glucose monitoring device that automatically checks your sugar and sends the result to your smartphone or a smartwatch. Most patients prefer this modern technology, which uses a tiny sensor placed in the arm, to traditional glucose meters that require pricking your finger,” she said.

—Submitted by New York Institute of Technology. Yusupov practices primary care at NYITCOM’s healthcare centers in Old Westbury and Central Islip.

THE

David Bernstein, MD

March Is American Red Cross Month

The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization synonymous with disaster relief, blood donation, and emergency response, has a rich history and a profound impact on American society. Founded by Clara Barton in 1881, the organization has played a crucial role in times of crisis and has become a symbol of compassion, volunteerism, and community service.

History of the American Red Cross

The origins of the American Red Cross trace back to the efforts of Clara Barton, a pioneering nurse, and humanitarian. Inspired by the Red Cross movement she encountered while visiting Europe, Barton advocated for the establishment of a similar organization in the United States. In 1881, she founded the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C., with a primary mission to provide aid to those affected by disasters and conflicts.

The organization’s early years were marked by its involvement in disaster response, including the Johnstown Flood in 1889 and the Spanish-American War in 1898. The American Red Cross also played a pivotal role in supporting the military during World War I, providing medical assistance, organizing blood donation drives, and offering services to prisoners of war.

Humanitarian Services and Blood Donation

The American Red Cross expanded its scope of services during the 20th century, evolving to address a broader range of humanitarian needs. One of its key contributions has been in the field of blood donation and transfusion. The organization established a national blood program in the 1940s, providing a reliable and critical supply of blood and blood products for medical treatments and emergencies.

Over the years, the American Red Cross has been at the forefront of disaster response, aiding communities affected by hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters. Their trained volunteers and extensive network of resources enable them to provide emergency shelter, food, and supplies to those in need.

response and mobilization of resources help affected communities cope with the immediate aftermath and embark on the path to recovery.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Red Cross adapted its services to meet the evolving needs of the population. This included the continuation of blood donation drives, providing support to healthcare facilities, and offering virtual assistance to individuals and families affected by the pandemic.

in nearly every country, collectively works to alleviate human suffering during times of crisis. The American Red Cross has been actively involved in international humanitarian efforts, providing aid and support in response to conflicts, epidemics, and natural disasters around the world.

Volunteerism and Community Engagement

Relevance in Times of Crisis

The American Red Cross continues to be a beacon of hope and support during times of crisis. Its relevance is particularly evident during large-scale disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and public health emergencies. The organization’s swift

What does it take to get care at the best cancer center in the Northeast, right on Long Island?

als

Education and Preparedness

Beyond disaster response, the American Red Cross places a strong emphasis on education and preparedness. The organization offers a wide range of training programs, including CPR and first aid courses, lifeguard training, and disaster preparedness initiatives. By empowering individuals with life-saving skills and knowledge, the American Red Cross aims to create resilient and prepared communities.

Global Impact

While rooted in the United States, the American Red Cross is part of the larger International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. This global network, operating

A cornerstone of the American Red Cross is its reliance on volunteers. The organization mobilizes a vast network of dedicated individuals who contribute their time, skills, and compassion to support the mission. Volunteer blood donors, disaster responders, health and safety instructors, and countless others play a vital role in the American Red Cross’s ability to fulfill its humanitarian mandate.

The American Red Cross stands as a testament to the power of humanitarianism and community service. Its history is intertwined with the nation’s response to crises, and its relevance endures through its diverse array of services, from disaster response to blood donation, education, and international aid. As a symbol of hope and assistance, the American Red Cross continues to make a significant impact, embodying the spirit of compassion and resilience in the face of adversity.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City Committed to Personalized Care

By John L. Gomes, MD

John L. Gomes, MD, founded Women’s Health Care of Garden City in 1995. It has remained an independent, private practice providing personalized obstetrical and gynecological services.

He employs the technical advances of conventional medicine with an integrative approach to navigate women through dif cult pregnancies into the menopausal years. He treats a wide variety of OB/ GYN conditions and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care.

He is committed to excellence in patient communication, education and support as many patients come with anxiety associated with past experiences and future concerns.

Dr. Gomes received his undergraduate degree from Brown University and his Doctor of Medicine from Columbia University. He is both Board Certi ed and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

All tests are conveniently done on the premises and a dedicated, compassionate staff is on call 24/7.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City is located at 1000 Franklin Avenue, Suite 200, Garden City. Call 516-222-8883 or visit online at DrGomes.com

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

NIFA DOING ITS JOB REGARDING NHCC

A recent op-ed by Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips highlighted financial struggles of the Nassau Health Care Corporation (NHCC) but unfortunately skimped on the historical record and falsely represented the actual relationship among NHCC, Nassau County (County) and New York State (State). Ms. Phillips hid from the reader her failure to examine and investigate NHCC’s finances and operations. Instead of owning up to her dereliction of duty, Ms. Phillips tried to deflect blame by irresponsibly attacking the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority (NIFA) for taking necessary and appropriate actions to determine NHCC’s financial status and outlook—the job she has simply ignored—and by mischaracterizing NIFA’s role in fixing NHCC’s finances.

To understand NHCC’s current problems, Ms. Phillips should have reminded the reader that the County agreed to provide NHCC with millions of dollars in annual subsidies when it transferred its hospital and other health care assets to NHCC in 1999 and once understood its stake in supporting NHCC. In addition to annual subsidies, the County gave NHCC approximately $116 million in proceeds from its 2006 tobacco bonds, refunding for NHCC’s capital and other needs. The fact that then- County Executive Edward Mangano ended the annual subsidies (due to the County’s fiscal problems during his administration) does not erase the historical record.

Rather than urge the administration to restore the County subsidy, Ms. Phillips chose instead to demand special funding from Albany. Surely she must know that the federal and State reimbursement mechanisms for all hospitals have changed, and NHCC has spent down its temporary transitional funding without effectuating the requisite reforms. It does Ms. Phillips no credit to pretend that the 1999 transaction severed all connection between NHCC and the County, yet somehow requires the State to address NHCC’s deficits a quarter century later. In fact, NHCC’s governing statute explicitly empowers the County to provide money to NHCC. She correctly points to “a moral and ethical obligation” to continue

services at the hospital, but points in the wrong direction.

Despite her responsibility as the County’s chief fiscal watchdog, County Comptroller Phillips also seems strangely uninterested in discovering the reasons NHCC has struggled to stay in business. Previous County Comptrollers took this oversight seriously and reviewed or examined NHCC, but not Comptroller Phillips. Why not?

Partly due to this oversight vacuum, NIFA retained an outside expert to review NHCC’s cash flow projections pursuant to its limited statutory mandate to oversee NHCC as a covered organization in an attempt to help NHCC avert a cash crisis that could severely impact services to the County’s most vulnerable residents. In furtherance of this objective, NIFA helped to facilitate the successful recent effort to ensure that the State made $50 million in transfer payments to NHCC as quickly as possible. NIFA has no authority, though, to make management and operational decisions that properly reside with the elected and appointed leaders of the County and NHCC, respectively. As such, Ms. Phillips should think again before criticizing NIFA for doing its job while she sidesteps hers.

Ms. Phillips repeats in her editorial her baseless claim that NIFA has not properly determined the basis for maintaining the current control period. Doing so does a disservice to County taxpayers who rightly understand that NIFA has a statutory responsibility to review the County’s budgetary results and decrease the likelihood of budgetary deficits going forward. Ms. Phillips also does not inform the reader that NIFA’s multi-year plan projections typically have not been drastically dissimilar to those of the Comptroller’s office and other fiscal monitors after accounting for various assumptions or methodological differences.

NHCC’s continued viability concerns all of us. It’s past time for the Comptroller to stop finger pointing and to start working cooperatively on solutions to NHCC’s present, but long-in-the-making, fiscal problems.

—Richard Kessel, Chairman, Nassau Interim Finance Authority

Anton Media Group celebrates the lives of all those in the community. We publish obituaries of residents and former residents at no charge to the families as a courtesy. We do this within the shortest time frame possible according to space availability. Email no more than 100 words to obits@antonmediagroup.com, or mail to 132 E. Second St., Mineola, NY 11501.

by Joan Chittister

Your writer was grateful to find author Chittister’s book, subtitled “ Growing Old Gracefully ”, written by her at age seventy, the same age your writer turns this year.

Inevitably, we come to see things differently as we age. In “The Gift of Years ” these changes in the “ capstone years ” as she calls them, present the gift of becoming more fully alive than ever. Cicero notes that old age is richer in reflection, force of character and judgement. The maturity and mellowing of character allows the older generation to provide a behavioral model for younger generations showing them the way to a fullness of life.

Seneca said these years abound with pleasure if we know how to use them. Free of obligations and deadlines, there is freshness in these years. Understanding, enjoyment and love of life all increase, allowing for deeper, richer and more important experiences. The world looks different -- more to be treasured, explored and enjoyed. A certain serenity sets in.

Chittister writes “ But we are here to depart from this world as finished as we can possibly become. Old age is...exactly the time to grow in new ways [making] sense out of all the growing we have already done. It is the softening season when everything in us is meant to achieve its sweetest, richest, most unique self ”.

Chittister calls it a damping-down time of life where anger, jealousy, envy, and pride subside to awaken another whole level of life. “ As Agatha Christie put it, we ‘bloom’ as we grow. New abilities emerge, new insights arise. New vision is possible. ”

A certain urgency and intensity in living sets in as we become aware of the presence of time. With forty short chapters on subjects such as Regret, Joy, Possibility, Letting Go, Success, Wisdom, Time and Appreciation, “ The Gift of Years ” provides an indispensable guide to aging well.

Girl Scouts Of Nassau County Feinstein

Girl Scouts across Nassau County visited the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health in Manhasset to celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The program featured a tour of the facility and an inspiring talk from the all-women research group called: Advancing Women in Science and Medicine (AWSM—pronounced “awesome”). Forty Girl Scouts participated in the event, getting the chance to see lab demonstrations, take part in open discussion with faculty, and hear about the experiences of women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers.

“Introducing Girl Scouts to career paths in STEM fields is an important part of what we do at Girl Scouts of Nassau County. There are so many different career options for girls, so we thank Northwell Health for inviting them in and speaking about the possibilities that are open to them,” said Rande Bynum, the chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Nassau County. “Our mission is building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. The incredible women that shared their stories and showed the girls the strides in medical research they work on was

inspiring and helped move our mission forward.”

This program was made possible through a partnership between the Girl Scouts of

Nassau County, the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research and the AWSM research group. Dr. Betty Diamond, director of the Institute of Molecular Medicine at the

Feinstein Institutes, formed AWSM in 2010 to help advance career opportunities for women at the Feinstein Institutes. She spoke with Girl Scouts about the group’s

The Girl Scouts of Nassau County paid a visit to the Feinstein Institutes to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Learn From Women In Science

national Day of Women and Girls in Science

programs in basic, translational, and clinical research and its initiatives to empower the next generation of women in science.

AWSM co-presidents, Dr. Sunny Tang

and Dr. Shih-Shih Chen, led the Girl Scouts throughout the Feinstein Institutes facility, bringing them into three different lab demonstrations to explore different areas of medical research. The Feinstein Institutes has a team of 5,000 members who seek out discoveries involving the treatment of various illnesses, such as lupus, sepsis, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

“Empowering young women to pursue STEM means that we can tap into their curiosity and creativity to make a brighter future for all of us,” said Dr. Sunny Tang, an assistant professor in the Institute of Behavior Science at the Feinstein Institutes and co-president of AWSM. “Having the Girl Scouts visit our labs and hear our stories will hopefully inspire them to excel in the fields of science and research.”

For more information about Girl Scouts of Nassau County and the career development opportunities it offers, visit gsnc.org.

—Submitted by Girl Scouts of Nassau County

The scientists guided the 40 girls through various laboratories, providing hands-on demonstrations and exploring different areas of medical research.

(Photos by Feinstein Institutes)

Ben’s Corned Beef specials come with bottomless fountain soda and all the fresh-cut Cole slaw and crunchy pickles you can eat! Available March 1st through St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17th.

Annual Community Supported Agriculture Fair On March 9

Come support local agriculture at the Long Island CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Fair and find the program that’s right for you. Once again, iEat Green, along with Slow Food North Shore, NOFA-NY, and Deep Roots Farmers Market are organizing a CSA Fair for the Long Island Community. We all know a strong immune system is our best bet to staying healthy, and we can do that by eating well. Joining a CSA is one way to support that effort.

The time to sign up for a share in a Community Supported Agricultural program is now. To help consumers compare the different CSA programs, NOFA-NY (Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York), Slow Food North Shore, Deep Roots Farmers Market, and iEat Green are bringing all of the farmers under one roof, to meet with potential customers and to make connections at the Long Island CSA Fair on Saturday, March 9th. This will be an indoor event.

Over 20 farms from across Long Island will be participating. This will be a great opportunity to meet the farmer, and to learn more about each individual CSA

they need it. Some programs offer payment plans so you do not need to pay all up front. Either way, CSAs are one of the best ways to get fresh organic produce at fair prices. We all know that eating more fruits and vegetables, and supporting local, sustainable agriculture, is great for your health, the planet, and our local economy.

The CSA fair will be hosted indoors, at the Sisters of St. Joseph Farm, 1725 Brentwood Road, in Building #2, Brentwood, Long Island, from 11:00am3:00pm on Saturday, March 9th , The fair is free and open to all who are interested. You can come for a few minutes, or stay for the whole time. There will be cooking demonstrations throughout the day, and delicious vegan, vegetarian and gluten free foods will be available for purchase.

program, allowing the consumer to choose the perfect program that suits their family’s needs. Some programs offer just produce, while others have “add on” options like fruit, flowers, cheese, bread, eggs, meat and

the harvest and paying up front, giving the farmer the financial support at the beginning of the season when

Sponsored by Slow Food North Shore, iEat Green, NOFA-NY, and Deep Roots Farmers Market, and is organized by Bhavani Jaroff, founder of iEat Green, LLC. If you have any questions or would like more information, please email Bhavani Jaroff at Bhavani@iEatGreen.com or call her on her cell at (516)238-3616.

—Submitted by IEat Green

fish. Community Supported Agriculture supports local farmers by purchasing a weekly share of

Photo by Alex Nuñez

Long Island Pols, Officials: Pump the Brakes On NYS’s School Bus Mandate

On February 25, New York State Senators, Assembly members, fire safety, and school officials joined together to “Pump the Brakes” on New York State’s fast-paced electric school bus mandate to ensure its feasibility and affordability for all communities. The impending 2027 statewide electric school bus mandate raises concerns about financial strain on school districts and taxpayers as well as safety concerns.

New York’s 2022-23 budget set a mandate requiring all new buses sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2027 and all buses on the road be zero-emission by 2035. While the group applauded efforts to reduce emissions and create a cleaner environment for our children, they raised concern that the current approach is flawed and lacks the necessary consideration for the potential consequences. A new, full-size electric bus costs $400,000 - $450,000 - triple the price of a conventional bus which is approximately $130,000. With 45,000 school buses in the state, full conversion by 2035 will cost

approximately $20 billion. The cost over and above what school districts already pay for replacement buses is projected to cost between $8 billion and $15 billion statewide. The State’s mandate will place a heavy burden on school districts and hardworking taxpayers.

This school bus mandate is happening at the same time the Governor has proposed to change the foundation aid formula and the hold harmless provision, which would reduce statewide school aid by an additional $412 million. In a proposed budget that grows $5.9 billion in state operating funds for a grand total of $233 billion there are a lot of places that could have been cut or not added in the first place. Changing the foundation aid formula and promoting a statewide bus electrification mandate with an unrealistic timeline - at the same time - is yet another poor policy decision out of Albany that will have negative impacts on our schools and their fiscal stability.

—Submitted by the office of Senator Steven Rhoads

Local officials gathered to protest the school bus changes. (Photos by the Office of Senator Steven Rhoads)

Senator Steven Rhoads speaks at a rally about the zero emissions school bus mandate.

WORD FIND

HOROSCOPES By

Holiday Mathis

This is a theme puzzle with the subject stated below. Find the listed words in the grid. (They may run in any direction 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.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). If this were a journey through a landscape, this would be the rocky part, which is actually much easier to cross than soft, mushy stu that would have you slipping and sliding. Here, the work is hard, but your feet can nd purchase, and every step brings you closer to your destination.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). ose who know the rules and break them amaze you. ose who don’t even realize there are rules, less so. You might go so far as to wake them up with the information: ere are always rules. As for you, it’s a week of strategy. You’ll follow and bend; you’ll break judiciously.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). As much as you love smart people and intelligent interactions, you also recognize, in the full range of communication, that too many high-minded exchanges can get exhausting. You’ll recognize points in the week when the scene can be elevated with informality. Connections happen when everyone is relaxed and not thinking too hard.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). e main reason to be mellow and patient now is not that it will make another person’s experience more positive (though it will). It’s because you’ll feel wonderfully in control of your own behavior, and you’ll own the con dence that comes with that.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). ough you’re endowed with many talents that can be applied to making your part of the world a more pleasing place to move through, there is one gift that stands out from the rest: your gift for making people feel special. With your sharp mind and creativity, you’ve elevated much, but friendships are your greatest work of art.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Before you step out of your comfort zone, you’ll assess the risks and bene ts. You’ll consider possible outcomes with the aim of making an informed decision. en you’ll do what you wanted to do in the rst place because your desire is far more compelling and exciting than the intellectual processes included in “due diligence.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’re not out to win the Nobel Prize, but you’d like to leave things better than you found them. You’re on the right track with your simple strategy: determine the next right move and do it. For most of the week, it will be unclear what the right move is. Fear not -- your best is all you can do, and it will de nitely be enough.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). When you see others struggle, you act immediately to remedy. And when it’s you who is struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for and accept assistance. You wouldn’t want to rob anyone of their chance to help. Helper’s hearts need workouts to stay vital and healthy. Well-being will be on the upswing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It’s not that you’re more than your body, rather it’s that you’re something else entirely. You animate your body and use it to get to new environments. You care for it, demand things of it and enjoy it, too, all the while realizing it’s your vehicle, not your being. e distinction will be meaningful this week.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). In the same way a whisper can speak louder than a shout, turning things down will amplify them. is week features fewer appointments in which more is accomplished. Budget cuts give you more to invest. By editing you grow in style, impact and energy. e only thing not to edit is relationships. Go full on and all in.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ll have the opportunity to serve some justice. While it would certainly rectify a balance, it might not be worth your time and energy. Where is your e ort going to forward your goals? “In taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior.” --

Sir Francis Bacon

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Planning is a pleasure because it invites you to bring your fantastic imagination to the party. e bright ideas are owing. Sure, they will be more ambitious than you might be able to reasonably execute, but that’s what makes them so exciting. And even if you get halfway there, you’ll be much further along than you would have been without a plan.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

A stressor is lifted, and the subsequent relief will open you to a cascade of good fortune, starting with your personal life. Your work crosses into altruistic territory, a ording you the opportunity to live your values and apply your principles toward a positive impact. More highlights: You’ll establish a new practice that gives you a useful philosophy and empowering outlook. Years of having your nger on the pulse of a special interest will pay o . You’ll participate in dazzling social events.

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

Countries and cities

Solution: 16 Letters

WORD FIND

Alaska

Andorra

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.

Countries and cities

Solution: 16 Letters

© 2024 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.

Antarctica

Armenia

Bali

Belize

Canada

Chad

Crete

Cuba

Devon

Dili

Doha

Fiji Harare

Honduras India

Iran

Italy Japan

Kenya

Alaska Andorra Antarctica Armenia Bali Belize Canada

Lima Madrid Malta

Mexico

Doha Fiji Harare Honduras India

Minsk

New York

Oamaru

Oman

Lima Madrid Malta Mexico Minsk New York

© 2024 Australian Word Games Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.

Prague Riga

Rome Russia

Seoul Spain Taiwan

Togo

Kiev Kyrgyzstan

Laos

Chad Crete Cuba Devon Dili

Iran Italy Japan Kenya

Onslow

Kiev Kyrgyzstan Laos

Peru Port Moresby

Oamaru Oman Onslow Peru Port Moresby

Prague Riga Rome Russia Seoul Spain

Tonga

Taiwan Togo

Vanuatu

Tonga

Vienna Wales

Vanuatu Vienna Wales

Solution: Our diverse planet

Solution: Our diverse planet

Creators Syndicate

Creators Syndicate

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

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

Date: 3/6/24

Date: 3/6/24

The philosophy of defense

trates the kind of challenge a defender can encounter. South is in four spades, and West leads the deuce of diamonds. East wins dummy’s king with the ace and must decide what to do next.

The winning return is the four of trump, after which declarer must go down; with any other return, declarer gets home safely. More importantly, East should work out that the low trump return at trick two offers virtually the only chance to defeat the contract.

East should reason that West’s deuce-of-diamonds lead, presumably fourth-best, marks declarer with three diamonds, all of which are losers. East also knows from the bidding that South must have both missing aces as well as the king of spades. So, it would be futile for him to play the ace and another spade to try to stop a diamond ruff in dummy. Indeed, declarer would make the rest of the tricks against that defense.

this deal, which illus-

Only by maintaining control of the trump suit can East hope to stop the contract. He can’t be absolutely certain that the low trump return will do the job, but he should conclude that it offers the only realistic chance to score three diamond tricks and put the contract down one.

Weekly Sudoku Puzzle

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

Answer to last issue’s Crossword Puzzle

Answer to last issue’s Sudoku Puzzle

ANNOUNCEMENTS

A nonprofit organization in Nassau, NY is seeking sealed bids for sales and installation of security related enhancements. This is a New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services grant funded project. The project includes (i) installation of one or more: technology (such as CCTV, access control, alarms, sensors, X-ray machines, magnetometer, handheld radios), security film, doors, locks, windows, bollards, booth, planters, barriers, lighting, fencing, privacy fencing, gates, (ii) training programs, (iii) cyber and (iv) security personnel. Bids will be accepted until 5:00 PM on March 18, 2024. Work is expected to commence by the week of March 25, 2024 and be completed by May 31, 2024. All interested vendors will be required to demonstrate preliminary qualifications and licensing for this work, acknowledge receipt of the proposal documents, and provide company name, business address, telephone, fax and email address, and primary contact name. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of surveillance and security, adherence to projected work schedule, prior experience, references, and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at nyscahcgrant@gmail.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

We, Edward & Lisa Castellano, bring forth our land patent bene ts. The complete Patent can be viewed at landpatentpower.com

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Polar Plunge Returns To TOBAY Beach

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Lou Imbroto invite residents to be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at the annual Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 23 at TOBAY Beach.

“Many of our residents head to TOBAY Beach for summer fun, but this event provides an enjoyable and charitable reason to spend a great day at the beach much sooner,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Participants will have an opportunity to prove their mettle and their compassion by wading into the chilly waters of TOBAY Beach to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York.”

SYOSSET

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of JDP NORTH PROPERTIES II

LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 6/30/23. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 43 Willis Ave, Syosset, NY 11792. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

3-6; 2-28-21-14-7; 1-312024-6T-#245325-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

SUPPLEMENTAL

SUMMONS AND NOTICE

Index No. 605733/2023

Dated Filed: 2/7/2024

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstSteven J. Prevete a/k/a Stephen Prevete, if he be living or if he be dead, his spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to Plaintiff; Mark DeMarsico; Kathleen Beackom; Bernard J. Beackom; Premier Capital Funding LLC; Anne P. Haran; Maidenbaum Property Tax Reduction Group LLC; State of New York, and “JOHN DOE”, said name being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed here, and any parties, corporations or entities, if any, having or claiming an interest or lien upon the mortgaged premises, Defendants.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 58 Meadowbrook Road, Syosset, NY 11791

TO THE ABOVE NAMED

DEFENDANTS:

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff

The event kicks off with winter festival fun and registration starting at 9:00 a.m., with the plunge beginning at 11 a.m. Requested donation is $25 per participant. Plungers who raise $150 receive a commemorative Polar Plunge sweatshirt.

All of the money raised through the Polar Plunge helps provide year-round sports training and competition as well as leadership, health and inclusion programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities in your community.

“This polar plunge is sure to create lasting memories for all participants while supporting a very worthwhile cause,” added

within thirty (30) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Jeffrey A. Goodstein, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, entered Jan. 30, 2024 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF

SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Consolidation and/or Modified Mortgage (hereinafter “the Mortgage”) to secure $498,000.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on September 24, 2014, at Liber M 39935 of Mortgages, page 469 covering premises k/a 58 Meadowbrook Road, Syosset, NY 11791 a/k/a Section 25, Block 2, Lot 243. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND

Councilman Imbroto. “Special Olympics New York changes lives through the joy of sports and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization to help make this event a success. Please join with me in braving the chilly waters for a great reason.”

Pre-register yourself, family and team today at www.PolarPlungeNY.org. For more information, call Rebecca Hoffmann at 631-458-1579 or e-mail rhoffmann@nyso. org.

—Submitted by the Town of Oyster Bay

(Flier courtesy the Town of Oyster Bay)

YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME.

SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS ANS PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: July 19, 2023

Frank M. Cassara, Esq.

Senior Foreclosure Attorney LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, NY 14624 (585) 247-9000

Fax: (585) 247-7380

Our File No. 23-092559 #101161

3-13-6; 2-28-21-2024-4T#245830-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. BRETT COHEN, ET AL., Defendant (s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 15, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court ,100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York on March 26, 2024 at 2:30 pm, premises known as 15 SPARROW LN, WOODBURY, NY 11797. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 12, Block: 529 , Lot: 8. Approximate amount of judgment is $603,572.82 plus interest and costs. Prem-

ises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609389/2019.

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.

MARK S. RICCIARDI, Esq., Referee

Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 3-13-6; 2-28-21-2024-4T#245888-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SU-

PREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

The Bank of New York Mellon fka The Bank of New York successor Trustee to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the Bear Stearns ALT-A Trust, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-9, Plaintiff AGAINST Matthew K. Tannenbaum, Sanda Tannenbaum, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 1, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 8, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 20 Sagamore Way South, Jericho, NY 11753. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Jericho, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 12, BLOCK: 577, LOT: 56. Approximate amount of judgment $961,182.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #014530/2012. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website

LEGAL NOTICES

( https://ww2.nycourts.gov/ Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-057009-F00 79654 3-27-20-13-6-2024-4T#245966-SYO/JER

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU

THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE HAMLET EAST CONDOMINIUM, Plaintiff, against FOXWOOD PROPERTY LLC; AYLIE ARIES CORP.; and “JOHN DOE” and “JANE DOE”, Defendants. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated February 1, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York, “Rain or Shine”, on April 8, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. premises being all that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being at Jericho, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York, known and designated as Unit No. l53 and Tax Unit No. 153. TOGETHER with all undivided .655 per cent interest in the common elements constituting Real Property of the Condominium hereinafter described as the same is defined in the declaration of condominium hereinafter referred to. The Real Property above described is a Unit as shown on floor plans of a Condominium prepared by Nelson and Pope, Civil Engineers and Surveyors and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 25th day of August, 1967, as Map No. CA-138 as amended by Map No. CA-

138A, filed on the 21st day of April 1988, and as defined in the Declaration of Condominium recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 25th day of August 1987, in Liber 9839 of conveyance at Page 237, as amended in Liber 9904 of conveyance Page 73 recorded on the 21st day of April 1988, Section 17, Block 17, Lot 4, Building 26. Said premises known as 153 Foxwood Drive, Jericho, New York. Said premises will be sold subject to zoning restrictions, covenants, easements, conditions, reservations and agreements, if any; subject to any state of facts as may appear from an accurate survey; subject to facts as to possession and occupancy and subject to whatever physical condition of the premises may be; subject to any violations of the zoning and other municipal ordinances and regulations, if any, and if the United States of America should file a tax lien, or other lien, subject to the equity of redemption of the United States of America; subject to the rights of any lienors of record whose liens have not been

foreclosed herein, if any; subject to the rights of holders of security in fixtures as defined by the Uniform Commercial Code; subject to taxes, assessments and water rates which are liens on the premises at the time of sale, with accrued interest or penalties thereon; and a first mortgage held by Money Tree Capital Markets LLC, mortgagee, given to FOXWOOD PROPERTY LLC, mortgagor, in the original amount of $608,000.00 dated 1/8/2021 and recorded 3/4/2021 in Liber 45082 at page 698. Said mortgage having been assigned to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. by Assignment dated 6/17/2021 and recorded 10/6/2021 in Liber 45917 at page 374. NO CASH WILL

Syosset Resident Publishes Book

Michael J. Weinstein, who grew up in Jericho, graduated from Syosset High School Class of 1981 and Cornell University in 1985, just published the second edition of his book, Essential Torah Words, Names, and Phrases.

Caribbean Café Opens At Woodbury Nursing Home

Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation will be home to a new Caribbean Café: Thyme Caribbean Cuisine. The doors for the café opened on Feb. 28, 2024. The breakfast, lunch and early dinner menu will cater to the administration, staff and residents of the nursing home along with the neighboring community.

Caribbean cuisine at Thyme is influenced by Jamaican, Haitian, Trinidadian and Guyanese cultures with a touch of American flair. You can look forward to Caribbean Rice Bowls, Roti, Salads and so much more! The tastebuds in Woodbury will never be the same!

Thyme Caribbean Cuisine is located on the ground floor in the main building (NORWICH) of Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation 378 Syosset-Woodbury Road Woodbury, New York 11797.

—Submitted by Thyme Caribbean Cafe

Assemblymember Honors 101-Year-Old World War II Veteran

Assemblymember Charles Lavine (D-Glen Cove) honored a World War II veteran in celebration of his 101st birthday. Lavine presented Eli Levine with a citation in recognition of his service to our country at his home in Melville in February.

Eli Levine, whose actual birthday was Jan. 31, is originally from Brooklyn and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943. As U.S. forces proceeded east after D-Day, so did Eli – arriving in France and passing through Belgium and Holland before eventually ending up in Germany where he was during the Battle of the Bulge. Throughout the war, Eli put his skills as a trained optician to use, running a small group repairing eyeglasses for front-line servicemen. He stayed in Germany until after the war and was discharged in January 1946 as a technical sergeant. Married in 1948, he and his beloved wife Louise had two girls and a boy. They had two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Eli went on to have a successful career as an optician. Louise, who passed away in 2019, was an advocate for breast cancer awareness and worked closely on this cause with Assemblymember Lavine.

“It was an honor and a privilege to meet this true American hero. We are forever grateful for the sacrifices that Eli and so many others of his, the Greatest Generation, made to preserve democracy,” Lavine said.

—Submitted by the Office of New York State Assemblymember Charles Lavine

Assemblymember Charles Lavine presents a citation to World War II veteran Eli Levine in Melville on Friday, Feb, 16, 2024.

(Photo courtesy the Office of New York State Assemblymember Charles Lavine)

Poké For A Good Cause

Jericho Cares hosts fundraiser at Pokeworks, Woodbury

Jericho Cares’ mission is to assist families in need. They provide clothes, celebrate birthdays and holidays, and help with food insecurities and other basic supplies. Jericho Cares is a network of local residents helping one family at a time.

On Saturday, March 9 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., PokeWorks in Woodbury, 8285 Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury, will be donating 25 percent of eligible sales to Jericho Cares.

How it works:

You can participate in this fundraiser by: Dine in

Take out

Delivery

Pick up

Please read the instructions, so that Pokeworks knows you are with the

GroupRaise Meal for Jericho Cares Foundation Inc, and your group will get 25 percent of your meal’s price donated back!

Restaurant Website

Visit order.pokeworks.com. Use the promo code of “GIVEBACK” and 25 percent of your meal’s price will be donated back to Jericho Cares Foundation Inc. This does not include third-party delivery apps.

Storefront Walk-in

Visit the location at 8285 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury 11797 and they will take your order from their storefront for takeout. Mention that you are with Jericho Cares Foundation Inc before placing your order.

-Information provided by Jericho Cares and Group Raise

(Photo courtesy Michael J. Weinstein)

Image not representative of Pokeworks menu. (Image via Pexels)

Testing Room Changes Add Efficiency

BY SHEA GANG OF JERECHO editors@antonnews.com

Procedures for using the testing room to make up missed exams have been updated, now requiring that students pre-register electronically in order to make use of this service.

Prior to this, students only had to discuss with their teachers what time and day they would take their exams. There was no limit on the amount of students who could be in the testing room at once. And in rare occurrences every seat was filled.

Junior Joey M. recalls multiple times when he went to the testing room and saw students being turned away due to lack of space. “Multiple times I’ve gone down to the testing room and I’ve seen other people been turned away or I’ve been deferred myself since there was no room.”

This raised multiple concerns for administrators. Assistant Principal Dr. Finley explained that she received many complaints from students and teachers that the testing room was sometimes chaotic and not efficient.

Timing was also an issue with some students not starting their tests until 3:40 and having to miss the late bus. Jericho Principal Mr. Cohen said, “There were some days that 40 to 50 kids would show up to the testing room and it could take 15 minutes just to set students up to take their tests.”

This was not the only reason that administrators decided to change the old testing room system. Over the summer Mr. Cohen, Dr. Finley and Assistant Principal Mr. Cummings looked through past years’ testing room attendance and observed that there were some students who made use

of the testing room too frequently, raising concerns about fairness, equity, and those students’ well-being since the goal is that all students take their assessments with their teachers in their classrooms.

Now in order to schedule an appointment for the testing room, a student must sign up through a Google form and select the time and date they would like to make up their exam. Spaces are limited to 25 per session and students must sign up at least 2 periods before the end of the day.

Dr. Finley and Mr. Cohen believe that this will help to make the testing room less crowded and more efficient. When students arrive at the testing room, their exams are ready for them when they walk in instead of having to wait on a long line.

Students and faculty are very happy with this new change and think it will benefit everyone involved. English teacher Ms. Garguillo said, “I think that the new testing room is a great idea and will stop large amounts of students from crowding the testing room right before a long break or vacation.”

Junior Natalie B. is pleased with how the new procedure has restored a sense of calm. She said, “It’s definitely better than last year because it was so much more chaotic last year.”

Others miss the impromptu nature of the old system. Junior Samara B. preferred being able to just show up to the testing room without pre-registration.

Students who wish to make use of the new system can access the Google Form on Canvas by clicking on the course called “AM/PM Testing Room.”

—Submitted by JerEcho

The testing room at Jericho High School. (Photo courtesy JerEcho)

IOn The Road Again: Dylan’s 1974 Comeback Tour

BY JOE SCOTCHIE Editors@antonnews.com

n 1966, Bob Dylan was riding high. In just five short years, this obscure songwriter from small-town Minnesota had made his mark, first as the voice of folk music then to the balladeer of folk rock to finally, a limousine-riding rock superstar. On top of that, he journeyed to an unsuspecting Mineola to marry, at a public ceremony, the model Sara Lowndes.

Dylan also had a residence at Woodstock. One day, while riding his motorcycle, the helmetless Dylan crashed his bike. He survived, but it was a close call. Both James Dean and Duane Allman weren’t so lucky. Dylan didn’t stop recording. However, his touring days had ended. Dylan and his wife now had a family that eventually grew to four children. By 1974, the man was getting restless. The road beckoned. Best of all, The Band, the Canadian-based group that had accompanied his 1966 tour, had become stars. The first Dylan concert tour in eight years was underway.

Years later, Dylan, in his usual cryptic style, dismissed the January to March

exercise. Members of The Band were equally unimpressed.

Maybe so. Dylan’s fans had been patient. So had the media. The tour was a cultural event. For a nation consumed by Watergate, it represented a welcome homecoming for its most prolific songwriter.

Dylan, now 33, remained on the cutting edge of cultural trends. The tour worked. Fifty years later, the man still performs. His peak years will always be when he played with Robbie Robertson (The Band’s leader) The 1974 tour came with great publicity.

A Newsweek cover proclaimed, “Dylan’s Back!” Rolling Stone dedicated several issues to the tour. Arenas in large cities throughout the country were sold out. A book by John Pickering and a compilation of the Rolling Stone articles were published.

The set started with Dylan and The Band playing a string of rockers, followed by a solo acoustic set, a performance by The Band’s greatest hits and a return to the style that opened the show.

The electric set included “Lay Lady Lay,” “Rainy Day Women No. #12 and #35,” “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door,” “It Ain’t

Me, Babe,” and “Ballad Of A Thin Man.” Acoustic numbers were “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” “Just Like A Woman,” and “It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding),” The Band ran through “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” “The Weight,” “Rag Mama Rag,” and “Stage Fright.” (Such critics as Nat Hentoff thought The Band’s sets were the showstoppers.)

The final set ended on a conventional note. “Like A Rolling Stone” closed the show, an electric rendition of “Blowin’ In The Wind” was the final encore.

The 1974 tour was a pace setter in several ways. It played to arenas only, selling those 18,000 or more capacity venues. It began the sentimental habit of fans lighting electronic candles in the darkness, waiting for the encores to start. There were politics involved. “It’s All Right” featured a line, “Even the President of the United States/ Sometimes must have to stand naked,” one that drew a big applause from young people who had soured uniformly on President Nixon. Numerous celebrities----Ringo Starr, Jack Nicholson, Carole King, Warren Beatty and Dylan’s old flame, Joan Baez---flocked

to the Los Angeles gigs. There were the books and a live album, Before The Flood, a double-disc product quickly hailed as the best such track yet to be released.

The Dylan mystique worked. These tours were not spoiled by excess drugs and alcohol, not to mention fights and rioting.

Along the way, Dylan made a friend for life. During the Atlanta stop, the man paid a visit to the governor’s mansion. Jimmy Carter was serving his final year as the Peach State’s chief executive. Carter’s son, Chip, was a huge Dylan fan.

Dylan and Carter bonded. No one considered Carter to be presidential material. Rolling Stone reported that the Georgia governor might be a vice-presidential hopeful. Three years later, Carter, now President, quoted his new friend during his inaugural address. “As Bob Dylan sang, he who is not being born is busy dying.”

It was a meeting of giants. In 2002, Carter won the Nobel Peace Prize. Fourteen years later, Dylan was awarded a Nobel for literature. The two have remained friends and confidants.

WHERE THE STARS ARE STALLERCENTER FOR THE ARTS

Patti LuPone/Broadway Wynton Marsalis/Jazz Itzhak Perlman/Classical Vic Dibitetto/Comedy Leslie Odom, Jr./Broadway

@ Follow @stallercenter

Bob Dylan and The Band touring in Chicago, 1974. (Image via Jim Summaria, Wikimedia Commons)

Patti LuPone/Broadway Wynton Marsalis/Jazz Itzhak Perlman/Classical Vic Dibitetto/Comedy Leslie Odom, Jr./Broadway

$

Syosset School District. Welcome to this cozy 4/5 Bedroom home in the heart of Oyster Bay Cove with a sweeping staircase and two story entry! Inviting Living Room with Fireplace, Formal Dining Room, Formal Den with fireplace and executive built-in bookshelves. Generous sized kitchen flows into another den with fireplace. Two Primary Suites- One on the main level and another on the second floor, additional bedroom ensuite, bedroom, and small study or can be another bedroom with private bath. Large Finished Walk Out Basement! Generator, IGS, CAC. Berry Hill Elementary, Southwoods Middle School & Syosset High School. Low taxes with Village taxes of $36,800.