Great Neck Record 9/27/23 edition is published weekly by Anton Media Group.

New Measures To Deter Wrong-way Driving And Bridge Strikes

Signs and pavement markings installed to increase safety along some of Long Island’s busiest highways

JULIE PRISCO

jprisco@antonmediagroup.com

Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a series of new safety enhancements along several Long Island highways. In lieu of recent accidents on Long Island highways, new signs and pavement markings will help deter wrongway driving and prevent trucks and other over-height vehicles from striking parkway overpasses.

On Monday, Sept. 11, an oversized box truck struck a 9-foot-tall bridge in Plandome that carries the Port Washington Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) tracks over Stonytown Road. According to the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), “the truck became wedged under the bridge.”

The accident occurred in the late afternoon, leading riders of the Port Washington LIRR branch to experience delays and cancellations during the PM rush. This crash affected commuters and customers who rely on the Port branch to get to Great Neck, Plandome, Manhasset and Port Washington.

The MTA took the necessary precautions to inspect the bridge, sending LIRR crews to the site to examine whether the tracks were “safe for trains to operate over the bridge and perform any repairs as necessary to allow safe travel.”

MTA police responded to coordinate the removal of the truck and issued citations to the driver. By 5:45 p.m., the crashed truck had been removed and the service on the Port Washington Branch resumed with residual delays.

Accidents such as the recent bridge strike in Plandome are more common than people may assume. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, “Although New York State has approximately 20,000 bridges, a majority of strikes are on a significantly smaller number of bridges.” Such as the accident that occurred with the bridge in Plandome, the smaller bridges are often ones that support train tracks, which leads to delays and cancellations affecting the LIRR. These accidents also cause traffic backup on the highways and roads themselves and damage the highway infrastructure.

Many of Long Island’s state parkways were constructed in the mid-20th century with low stone arch bridges intended for passenger vehicles. The bridges’ purposes have evolved over the past decades to accommodate major commuting routes and connect the suburbs to New York City.

New, highly reflective signs and pavement markings have already been installed at more than 700 select locations on Long Island bridges. The additions will help improve driver awareness and safety on the busiest highways in Nassau and Suffolk counties. According to a press release from the office of Governor Hochul, “The new measures meet or exceed all state and federal highway standards for safety.”

“Wrong-way drivers and over-height vehicles pose obvious safety hazards that can cause unspeakable tragedies and lead to unnecessary delays and hardships for motorists,” Governor Hochul said in a statement. “With these new signs and pavement markings, we are providing hard-to-ignore warnings that will help deter wrong-way drivers and over-height trucks to protect the safety of their fellow motorists.”

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said, “The important safety enhancements announced by Governor Hochul today will help make our highways safer for the hundreds of thousands of Nassau County motorists who use them every day.”

Governor Hochul’s press office detailed the new signage and pavement markings below:

• The new safety enhancements include more than 3,600 new “Wrong Way” and “Do Not Enter” signs that have been installed at 422 parkway, expressway, and highway ramps to discourage wrong-way drivers from entering high speed highways, expressways, and parkways on Long Island.

• Facing against normal traffic flow will be one “Do Not Enter” sign followed by

four “Wrong Way” signs. The signposts all have red reflective strips to increase their visibility.

• Additional pavement markings and reflectors in the pavement have also been installed on the ramps to alert wayward drivers.

• New highly reflective advance warning signs have been installed at 282 locations on the Southern, Northern, Meadowbrook, Wantagh, Bethpage, Heckscher, Sagtikos, and Sunken Meadow State parkways and the Robert Moses Causeway. They display each bridge’s height and feature reflectors on the signposts.

• The new signs are approximately 75 percent larger than previous signs and provide ample warning to help truckers avoid colliding with the overpass.

• Pavement markings warning of “Low Bridge Clearance” are also being installed at 17 targeted parkway locations to further increase awareness.

• The new signs and pavement markings complement 16 over-height vehicle detectors in places selected at ramps where trucks have been known to frequently enter parkways. This technology triggers a warning sign to notify the truck’s driver and alerts the State Department of Transportation’s regional traffic management center.

For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Motorists are urged to plan accordingly and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver’s license.

Follow NYSDOT on Twitter at @NYSDOT and @NYSDOTLI. Find them on Facebook at Facebook.com/NYSDOT.

—Information gathered from the Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Commuters waiting for trains on Sept. 11 when a box truck hit the Port Washington LIRR tracks. (Photo by Julie Prisco)

Box truck stuck under a bridge in Plandome. (Photo from the MTA Press Release)

Bridge height sign placed before the bridge so truck drivers have time to assess and pull over if needed.

Reflective ‘Do Not Enter’ and ‘Wrong Way’ signs for highway entrances. (Photos from the office of Governor Kathy Hochul)

Lurvey Responds To Comptroller Story

In response to the cover story about the comptroller’s resignation for the 8/30 edition of the Manhasset Press, Councilmember Veronica Lurvey sent the following statement:

“‘The Supervisor’s understanding is just wrong. Only in her world is she the only member of the Town Board who can communicate with department heads. The notion that Council Members are somehow “less than” is a fiction. As elected representatives, we have always communicated with Department Heads. The Supervisor has limited authority, and she doesn’t like it. But by trying to restrict our access to staff, the Supervisor puts incredible stress on our Town employees and creates an atmosphere of distrust. We saw this type of behavior again on September 5, when the Supervisor tried to prevent her colleagues from being able to correspond with the Town’s budget consultant. Why is it so important that the Supervisor keep information about Town finances secret?’

The Town Attorney has confirmed that the general management and control of the finances of the Town is the responsibility of the entire Town Board.

The Town budget is determined by the Town Board. The role of a Supervisor in the budget process is different from a Governor or Chief Executive of a municipality such as NYC or Nassau County.

By law, financial information should be flowing from the Supervisor to the Town Board. State Law requires monthly financial updates to the Town Board. The Supervisor has been in office for 20 months and has provided none of the required monthly reports.”

In previous coverage, it was reported that DeSena speculated on the reason for Schwaner’s departure in an email.

“Unfortunately, I believe she became fed up at constantly being put in the position by the Town Board to either report to them as they sought to undermine the budgetary

authority granted to my office by state law, or to continue to do her job as Town Code dictates and report to the Supervisor. Our residents deserve better than elected officials who would put their political self-interests ahead of the best interests of our residents.”

She also stated that she thought the difficulty hiring a new comptroller was politically motivated. “Upon taking office, I was greeted with the news that that very same day would be our Comptroller and Chief Deputy Comptroller’s last day employed by the Town, as they had given notice 2 weeks prior and no one thought to give my incoming administration any sort of heads up. Since then, the situation with this post has only gone further downhill as my colleagues on the Town Board dragged out the search process and voted down the qualified candidates I put forth, baselessly claiming I was bringing in certain individuals for political gain even though the interview process was bipartisan and this individual was a finalist for the job. Ultimately the search continued until we

finally settled on Kristen, who I believed would be a great asset to the Town.”

Preparing the budget is one of the major responsibilities of the comptroller’s office. The Comptroller is responsible for the overall financial management of the Town and its Town Operated Districts. Areas of activities include, but are not limited to: payroll processing; debt service administration; accounts payable; cash receipts processing; general ledger accounting for all Town operated funds; financial reporting to Town management, regulators and the citizenry; interfacing with multiple Commissioner Operated Special Districts; extensive participation in the annual budget process; liaison with the Town’s independent auditors as well as auditors for the Commissioner Operated Special Districts.

The deadline for the proposed budget is the end of September. At the time of this writing, the schedule for this year’s budget has not been set.

Councilmember Veronica Lurvey. (Photo from veronicalurvey.com)

Smart Estate Planning And The Home -Selling Journey

The Great Give Back

Great Neck Library Community Service Initiative

The Great Give Back is a community service initiative created by the Suffolk County Public Library Directors Association and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System, in conjunction with the Nassau Library System.

To support The Great Give Back, Great Neck Library is hosting an array of events.

Children’s Hospital Toy Donations

Oct. 1-31 at the Main Library (159 Bayview Ave.) Accepting donations of unused and unopened toys for kids at Cohen’s Children’s Hospital all month long.

Pillowcase Sewing Workshop

Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 2 p.m. at the Main Library (159 Bayview Ave.) Sew a pillowcase to donate to Ryan’s Case for Smiles, a volunteer organization delivering bright, cheerful

pillowcases to local hospitals for children and their families while they undergo treatment. Beginners welcome. For adults. No registration required.

Cards for Kids

Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 4 p.m. at the Main Library (159 Bayview Ave.) Create cards and drawings to share with children at Cohen’s Children’s Hospital. For ages 3-12 with an adult. No registration required. Kindness Rocks Saturday, Oct. 21 at 4 p.m. at the Main Library (159 Bayview Ave.) Decorate a Kindness Rock with uplifting and positive messages. Teens may earn one hour of community service credit. For teens. Registration required. For more information, please contact the Great Neck Library at 516-466-8055 or email adultprogramming@greatnecklibrary.org.

—Submitted by the Great Neck Library

Great Neck Library Art Exhibit Vibrant Photography By “Rain”

Stop by the Great Neck Library to check out the vibrant photography of Great Neck teen, Chongrun, also known as “Rain”.

Rain is a high school senior attending William A. Shine, Great Neck South High School, who has a profound passion for photography. His work is currently on display at the Great Neck Library (159 Bayview Ave., Great Neck).

Rain specializes in capturing the beauty of landscapes and the fascinating world of wildlife. The exhibition features a collec-

tion of photographs, including a striking snowy owl, a majestic osprey, a regal bald eagle, two graceful hummingbirds, and four stunning sunrise scenes, each adorned with its unique and vibrant colors. Through Rain’s lens, the wonders of nature come to life, and his artistic vision shines brightly in his work.

For more information, please contact the Great Neck Library at 516-466-8055 or email adultprogramming@greatnecklibrary.org.

—Submitted by the Great Neck Library

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

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

thebristal.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 27

Aging Presentation

2 p.m. (Temple Isaiah of Great Neck, 1 Chelsea Pl.) Presentation by the Nassau County Office for the Aging followed by a question and answer session. Following the presentation, there will be a blood pressure check provided by Mount Sinai South Nassau Health System. Refreshments will be served. There is no charge. Please contact Temple Isaiah at (516) 487-5373 to R.S.V.P. or for further information.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30

S.T.O.P. Event

9 a.m.-3 p.m. (North Hempstead Beach Park) Town of North Hempstead Stop Throwing Out Pollutants event. Bring your aerosols, household chemicals, pesticides, disinfectants, fertilizers, bulbs, thermostats, rechargeable and lithium batteries, TVs, and computers. Call 311 for more information.

SUNDAY, OCT. 1

Great Neck Farmers Market

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Firefighters Park) Deep Roots Farmers Market, in collaboration with the Great Neck Park District. Twenty-plus vendors featuring locally grown vegetables, fresh baked breads and sweets, artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, honey, prepared foods, jams, coffees, and much more. Weekly guest art and craft vendors. Social media: @greatneckfarmersmarket | www. deeprootsfarmersmarket.com

TUESDAY, OCT. 3

Blood Pressure Screenings

12 p.m.-2 p.m. (Station Branch Small Room) Blood Pressure Screenings with St. Francis Hospital and Heart Center. Have your blood pressure checked by a clinical nurse, free of charge. Healthcare proxy information is also available.

World in Depth

1 p.m. (Great Neck Social Center) Talk and make sense out of what goes on in the world today. We have a cadre of experienced moderators who keep us on topic, even when the discussion gets heated. No charge to come and put in your own valued opinion.

CallingAllArtists

Savvy IRA Planning

6:30-7:30 p.m. (Main Library Community Room) Savvy IRA Planning for Baby Boomers presented by Evan Levy. In this workshop, you will learn important IRA rules for traditional and Roth IRAs and Roth conversions. All attendees will receive the Baby Boomers Guide to IRA Planning, which summarizes key IRA provisions. Register at greatnecklibrary.org

Town Board Meeting

7 p.m. (Town Hall) Town of North Hempstead October board meeting. Live streamed on northhempsteadny.gov

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4

Balance Classes: Watch Your Step!

1:00 p.m. (Port Washington Library, Lapham Meeting Room) Patrons over age 60 are invited to join us for a Balance Class presented by Community Nurse Kelly Steinmann, R.N., of the Northwell Health System / Project Independence. Classes will be held from 1-2:30 p.m. on five consecutive weeks. Please call 516869-6311 to register.

FRIDAY, OCT. 6

Introduction to Computers One

11 a.m.-1 p.m. (Station Branch Community Room) For the computer novice, this class will get you started. Learn the basics right from the beginning. Registration is required, Great Neck cardholders and residents have priority for seating. Call 516-466-8055 for more information. Signing up for this class will also register you for Intro to Computers Two on Oct. 13.

NORTHEAST MEDICAL PRACTICE

William A. Berger, MD

Internal Medicine Board

Certi ed

ABOUT US:

We aim to provide patients with a holistic form of care that prevents chronic disease before it starts and optimizes a patient and their external appearance as well. At NEMP, we strive to provide a health care experience like that of the family doctor of years ago who had time and authentically cared for his patients. Dr. Berger provides longer patient visits, allowing him to uncover the root cause of disease. He strives to not only achieve a longer lifespan for his patients, but also improve quality of life. We are Great Neck residents and look forward to extending our services to our neighbors!

Judge: Stephanie Jacobson, Art Professor

Instructor At Art Guild of Port Washington

Rules and Instructions: Friendsofcedarmere.org

1862 Mill

The Scrap Over Solving Immigration Crises, Part III

Our county and region struggle on amid politicized waves of arrivals

JANET BURNS

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

Afew miles from where the Statue of Liberty, famed greeter of millions who immigrated here by ship in prior generations, still stands, some local electeds, politicos, protesters, and residents continue speaking out or trading rumors and jabs (or in some cases not saying much at all) on the arrival of tens of thousands of asylum seekers and other migrants in our area this year.

In the past few weeks, public responses to asylum seekers and migrants’ arrival in the New York City metropolitan region have increased, and in some cases escalated.

On Staten Island, for example, where frequent rally organizers Curtis Sliwa and Scott Lobaido have brought out critics of sheltering migrants, the New York Police Department (NYPD) recently arrested ten people who were attempting to block and banging on a bus transporting asylum seekers. The asylum seekers were headed to the former Island Shores Beach building, one of many disused buildings in NYC that have been converted for short-term shelter. According to the NYPD, ten people were arrested for disorderly conduct, and one person was additionally charged with assaulting a police officer during an arrest.

In the weeks prior to that, asylum seekers temporarily residing at another Staten Island shelter have had to face not only regular protests but also, as the Associated Press reported, “a message, recorded in six languages, [that] blares all day from a loudspeaker on Scott Herkert’s well-groomed front lawn on Staten Island, exhorting migrants to ‘go back’ to another part of the city because the community doesn’t want them.”

Meanwhile, Sliwa and others have continued to host rallies at Creedmoor and Floyd Bennett Field against providing publicly funded shelter for any homeless migrants, whether they’re the border-vetted asylum seekers arriving by bus at Humanitarian Emergency Relief and Response Centers (HERRCs), like the one at Creedmoor, or have otherwise walked or flown here to pursue another path toward legal residence. As an alternative, Sliwa has at times suggested that migrants could be housed on Rikers Island, home to a

notorious network of jails that is legally required to close by 2027; speaking this summer outside a Toys R’ Us in Brooklyn, Sliwa followed up that suggestion by stating that he himself has experienced pre-trial incarceration on Rikers, before bellowing, “I FEAR NO MAN! Or woman.”

In our area, State Assemblyman Ed Ra recently called for a special session “to address the intensifying migrant crisis that has seen more than 100,000 migrants arrive in our state over the past year,” according to a press release.

“Our urgent call for this special session is a consequence of inaction by our state leaders and passivity of the federal government,” Ra said. “My colleagues and I have introduced proposals that will alleviate

undue pressure on our education and court systems, housing industry and capabilities of community service providers. We have proposals that will address growing public safety concerns, as well as Mayor Adams’ inflating costs for migrant shelters and services, which he now estimates to reach $12 billion.”

“We have been asking and advocating for these actions for several months—it’s time to address the migrant issue head-on. An extraordinary session must be convened to compensate for the lack of action by Democratic leadership in Albany and Washington and take steps to implement long-delayed solutions.

In late August, State Senator Jack Martins also weighed in during a press conference outside the Long Island Rail Road station at Floral Park.

“The self-inflicted migrant crisis has been a disaster for communities across our state. Rather than address it, Democrats in Albany continue to insist on New York’s sanctuary status and won’t raise a finger to push sealing the border. They’d rather give away parks and schools to gatecrashers than protect our communities and enforce the law,” Martins said.

Ra, political hopeful Mike Sapraicone, and other Republicans also broadly roasted the suggestion made by Queens boro president Donovan Richards, perhaps rhetorically, that the Nassau Coliseum property could be used to shelter asylum seekers, too.

For his part, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has already imposed a 60-day limit

on city-provided shelter for single adult homeless asylum seekers, and as of this writing was considering adding a 30-day limit for persons who re-enter the shelter system, as well as some kind of time limit for families seeking asylum.

On both Long Island and Staten Island, religious coalitions have been among the loudest voices speaking up on behalf of sheltering asylum seekers, as well as other homeless migrants.

By mid-September, more than 165 faith leaders in Nassau and Suffolk had signed a letter to the Nassau and Suffolk County Executives and Legislatures, which some members of activist and religious communities have been taking on a tour of sorts at local town board meetings.

The letter, also addressed to supervisors and board members of the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Huntington, Babylon, Smithtown, Islip, Brookhaven, Riverhead, Southampton, Easthampton, Southold and Shelter Island reads as follows:

“You shall not deprive a resident alien or an orphan of justice...Remember that you were a slave in Egypt and the Lord your G-d redeemed you from there; therefore, I command you to do this.” [Deuteronomy 24:17-18]

“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” [Matthew 25:35]

The Holy Qur’an repeatedly requires the

see CRISES on page 4A

NYPD officers stand together in the parking lot of a former Toys R’ Us in Brooklyn during a protest against sheltering asylum seekers

The back of a sign that fell to the ground, which had directed rally attendees at a Toys R’ Us in Brooklyn to park at the golf course across the street, reads, “What’s the plan?”

(Photos by Janet Burns)

John Riley loves comic books. For the last 30 years, he’s been sharing that love with readers young and old. And we’ve been with John every step of the way, helping plan improvements ranging from upgrading LED lighting to replacing a 50-year-old oil tank with a super-e cient heat pump. These upgrades save him money that he reinvests in—you guessed it—more comic books. As it should be.

See how we support small businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaways at psegliny.com/Business

“Every time I expected to encounter bureaucracy, I actually encountered a person.”

—John Riley, Grasshopper’s Comics, Williston Park

CRISES from page 2A

faithful to comply with agreements and treaties on the rights of refugees, praising those who go to the assistance of people in distress and requiring the faithful to protect them [9:100 and 117], including non-Muslims, by providing amam (safeguard).

We, the undersigned, are an interfaith community of clergy and lay leaders, and the mandates in our traditions could not be clearer. As people representing many faith traditions, we profess the full humanity and dignity of all people, all created in the Spirit of Life’s image. Our sacred texts mandate love, hospitality and a commitment to love our neighbor, with a strong emphasis — literally scores of scriptural mandates — on welcoming the stranger, sojourners from another land.

In recent years, 68 million people worldwide have fled their homes seeking safety. Children account for more than half of this total. Families requesting safety at our borders are fleeing economic exploitation, organized crime, political repression, war, and sexual violence, much of it rooted in disruptions caused by climate disasters and political destabilization. Recent reports indicate that current asylum seekers also include those who have fled Afghanistan after providing assistance to the United States, whose lives now would be in danger at home. Any of us would ask for refuge for our families if faced with the same threats.

Many U.S. towns and cities, including Nassau and Suffolk Counties—consistent

with our nation’s foundational ideal to be a place where people come for safety and freedom—have long been welcoming, housing, and employing our immigrant neighbors as they await their court asylum hearings. Houses of worship and non-profits provide care, critical support services, and community. Together as Long Islanders, we can continue (with essential government support and partnerships on the federal, state and local levels) to honor the core values of our diverse faiths and our nation by being a community of welcome.

Unfortunately, some Long Island officials have done just the opposite: inflaming tensions and fears by issuing irresponsible calls to bar asylum seekers from our towns

and counties, despite the fact that under both U.S. and International law these asylum seekers are guaranteed the right to seek asylum.

Such rhetoric is especially disheartening considering that during the height of the pandemic, lives were literally saved by essential workers, many of whom are immigrants. They cared for our elderly and disabled family members, planted, harvested and delivered our food, cleaned our public spaces, and much more. While some of us were locked down in our homes, immigrant workers were laboring to strengthen Long Island and our communities.

Our sacred scriptures insist that “neighbor” is never defined as proximity or

nationality.

Any rejection and resentment of the Spirit of Life’s children is a betrayal of our values, and a betrayal of the Spirit of Life.

We lament the crises of violence, environmental disaster, war, and poverty that cause families to leave their homes and lands in search of safety and asylum; we call for serious attention to fixing our broken immigration system; and we pray for just national and global policies and for the healing of a broken world — a prayer for Tikkun olam — so that all people might have the opportunity to find safety and welcoming in our country, our state, and in our Long Island communities. This is who we are as people of faith.

Asylum seekers walk from the Creedmoor HERRC toward a nearby mosque in late summer, passing barricades set up for a protest that evening.

A view of one paved portion of isolated Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, where state and federal approval for a HERRC has been given.

Over the years that people have come to me to share their moments of distress – wayward children, broken marriages, abusive relationships, gambling addictions, drug use, etc. – it strikes me that throughout most of these situations, someone other than me knew about these. But they said nothing.

We’ve been raised to “mind our own business” and not butt in other people’s lives, though we all know folks who are constantly inserting themselves into situations where they don’t belong. And we don’t want to be one of “those people.”

What if you know through your children that a friend’s child is engaged in dangerous behavior? Do you say something? What if a friend confides that he or she is becoming increasingly intimate with someone other than their spouse? Do you advise your friend to stop going in that direction because of the ongoing harm this will lead to? What if you know that a fellow team parent continually shows up at the games drunk or high? Do you express your concern or pretend you don’t know?

You could give it the “What if it

THE SPIRIT OF OUR TOWN

was MY kid?” test. In other words, would you want to know if your child was riding his bike in traffic or stealing from a local store or ingesting weed, or selling weed? What if you were the one headed for an inappropriate relationship? Would some cautionary words from a friend be welcomed? Would you be able to hear “care” if someone challenged your self-destructive behavior?

Of course we could actually pray about what to do. When we turn to God for direction we can find guidance in a variety of scripture. Saint Paul tells the people of Thessalonika “We hear that some

COLUMNS Butting In

of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies.” So naturally we want to avoid that.

However he also urges the Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Sometimes there are things that concern us but they seem so small that we think they’re not worth the trouble to speak about. Before 9-11 few people would think to point out an unaccompanied backpack or suitcase at a subway station. But after the terrorist attack the “if you see something, say something” campaign urged us to notice and report even small things that could signal larger dangers.

I believe that if people shared a concern over small things with those they care for, some of the behaviors that might become more destructive could be avoided down the line. We can’t live other people’s lives or rescue folks from their bad decisions but sometimes silence isn’t golden. Speaking our concerns can make

a difference that can protect, heal, guide, and help those we are concerned about.

Consider the rudder of a ship. It’s one of the smallest parts of a boat yet it is essential to steering in the right direction. Even a small adjustment can make a big difference in where the ship is sailing.

So too, a small caring word has the potential of helping another person to make a mid-course (or mid-life) correction.

Reaching out with concern to another takes two things: courage and rehearsal. First pray for courage – it is the power to do the right thing no matter what the cost may be. And then rehearse what you plan to say so that you’re steering

clear from being judgmental and condemnatory. Better to say how you feel about the situation than telling someone what they ought to be doing.

“After my daughter told me that your daughter is cutting herself I’m feeling scared for her safety” works better than “Didn’t you know your daughter has been cutting herself? You’d better get her into counseling – and you should get some counselling yourself!”

If you’re the kind of person who naturally butts in all the time, you didn’t need to read this column. But if some concern has been weighing you down for some time, perhaps this is the day to say something.

Fr. Ralph Sommer

Photo credit Getty Images

Everyday Words With Naval Origins

The Navy has had a significant influence on everyday language. Many common words and phrases have their origins in naval terminology, reflecting the maritime history and traditions of the Navy. Here are 10 everyday words with naval origins:

Admiral: An admiral is a high-ranking naval officer responsible for commanding a fleet or a group of ships. The term “admiral” is derived from the Arabic word “amir,” which means commander. It was adopted into European languages and later into English.

Deck: In a naval context, the “deck” refers to a platform on a ship’s surface. This term has been adopted to describe any horizontal surface or platform, such as the “deck” of a house or a “deck” of playing cards.

Bunk: A “bunk” is a narrow bed often found in cramped quarters on naval vessels. The term is now used more broadly to describe any type of bed or sleeping arrangement.

Boatswain: The “boatswain” or “bosun” is a senior crew member responsible for the maintenance of a ship and its equipment. The term has been adapted to describe supervisors or overseers in various industries.

Maroon: To “maroon” originally referred to the act of leaving someone stranded on a deserted island, often as a form of punishment. The term “maroon” has since evolved to describe being abandoned or isolated in any context.

Scuttlebutt: In naval slang, the “scuttlebutt” is a drinking fountain or water cooler. Sailors would gather around

LONG ISLAND VETERANS

Christy

Hinko

the scuttlebutt to exchange rumors and gossip while getting a drink. Today, “scuttlebutt” is synonymous with casual conversation or hearsay. You might hear someone say, “What’s the scuttlebutt around the office?”

Brace: To “brace” in a naval context means to prepare for impact or turbulence by securing oneself or equipment. In everyday language, “brace” is used to convey readiness or preparation for a potentially challenging situation.

Sonar: “Sonar” is an acronym for “sound navigation and ranging.” It’s a technology developed for underwater navigation and communication. Today, sonar is used for various purposes, including underwater exploration and fishing.

Grog: “Grog” was a diluted rum ration provided to sailors in the British Navy. It has come to refer to any alcoholic beverage. It’s a slang term used to describe a drink, often in a casual or informal setting.

Mayday: “Mayday” is an internationally recognized distress signal used in emergencies, particularly at sea. It derives from the French phrase “m’aidez,” meaning “help me.” In everyday language, “mayday” is synonymous with a cry for help or a desperate plea.

These everyday words with naval origins serve as reminders of the Navy’s enduring impact on language and culture. The rich history and traditions of naval forces continue to influence our vocabulary, even in contexts far removed from the sea.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wednesday, Sept. 27— Standup Comedy Class for veterans at 7 p.m. every Wednesday at Project9Line, Islip

Thursday, Sept. 28—The Wall That Heals at Flushing Meadow Park in Queens with 24-hour access through Oct. 1

Thursday, Sept. 28—Wine on the Harbor charity event to celebrate Pal-O-Mine from 6 to 9 p.m. at Harbor Club at Prime, Huntington

Saturday, Sept. 30, and Sunday, Oct. 1—Project Thank You letter writing campaign for active troops at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish Church, Hicksville

Thursday, Oct. 5, through Oct. 8—The Wall That Heals with 24-hour access at Tanner Park, Copiague

Friday, Oct. 6—1st Annual Heroes At Home Gala from 6 to 10 p.m. at Smithtown Landings Country Club, Smithtown

Saturday, Oct. 7—WWII Veteran Rich Gruber’s 100th Birthday Celebration at 4 p.m. at Miller’s Ale House, Commack

Sunday, Oct. 8—8th Annual PTSD Awareness Motorcycle Ride by Rolling Thunder NY Chapter 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Marine Corps League, Massapequa

Friday, Oct. 13— Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Assoc. Scramble Golf Tournament from 7 a.m. at Cherry Creek Golf Links, Riverhead

Saturday, Oct. 14—Chili Cook-off and Fall Festival to benefit mental health and veteran care from noon to 4 p.m. at Association for Mental Health and Wellness, Ronkonkoma

Saturday, Oct. 14— Outdoor concert fundraiser to

support autism education from 2 to 6 p.m. at VFW Post 9592, Levittown

Saturday, Oct. 14—Roslyn Rocks for Wounded Warriors from 7 p.m. at Roslyn High School, Roslyn

Saturday, Oct. 21—Blue Star Mothers Garage Sale to benefit veterans from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bethpage Railroad Station

Saturday, Oct. 21—23rd Annual VA Hospital Motorcycle Run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Marine Corps League, Massapequa

Saturday, Oct. 21—Legion Auxiliary fall crafting fundraiser at American Legion Post 1033, Elmont

Saturday, Oct. 28—Full Moon

Halloween Dance from 7 to 11 p.m. at VFW Post 414, Center Moriches

Thursday, Nov. 9—NY Helmets To Hardhats Service Luncheon at U.S.S. Intrepid, Manhattan

Saturday, Nov. 11—Family Festival and Car Show from noon to 5 p.m. at Samanea Mall, Westbury

Sunday, Nov. 12—Jimmy’s Run/Gold Star Memorial at 7 a.m. hosted by Ranger Lead the Way Fund, Manhasset

Tuesday, Nov. 14—Services For Those Who Served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Centered Mind Body Spirit, Commack

Friday, Nov. 17, and Saturday, Nov. 18—Mike Del Guidice: A Concert Weekend for Veterans at The Paramount, Huntington

Saturday, Nov. 25—Veterans’ Comedy Showcase at 7 p.m. at Project9Line, Islip

–Christy Hinko, managing editor at Anton Media Group and U.S. Navy veteran

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

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COLUMNS

No Worms For The Early Birds

There is an old expression that the “early bird catches the worm.” That may apply to buying tickets for Taylor Swift or some other hot event. It doesn’t apply to politics because it is a subject riddled with uncertainties. That is especially so when it comes to handicapping the 2024 presidential race.

At this early stage in the 2024 race, we are being bombarded with polls and pundits, all seeking to tell us who is a potential winner in next year’s presidential horserace. These polls are just plain guesswork and there is no legitimate science behind the numbers or the forecasts. The pollsters tell us that their formulas are a sure thing, but don’t believe it. If 2020 tells us anything, they bombed more often than they were right.

In 2012, the pollsters found that Hillary Clinton was 20 points ahead of Barack Obama. By the time of the Democratic convention, Obama had a commanding lead and got the nomination. That same fluke took place when Ronald Reagan came from behind to beat Jimmy Carter.

Recently, New Hampshire Republican Governor Sununu predicted that neither Donald Trump nor Joe Biden will be the nominees of their respective parties. That may be a stretch but maybe Sununu has a crystal ball that is clearer than most of us. In addition, some conservative Republicans maintain that former President Trump will be barred from running under the 14th Amendment and they are planning a court challenge of the Trump candidacy.

I have spoken to a number of Democratic veterans who believe that President Biden will bow out at the party convention but they have been reluctant to predict who will get the party nomination. These same veterans refuse to name a possible replacement for the president, but there are numerous Democratic governors waiting

INSIDE POLITICS

in the wings for a chance to step up if called upon.

Republican candidates DeSantis, Pence and Haley think that they may be struck by political lightning, and hope that a convicted former president will be forced to step aside because of falling poll numbers. They believe that a convicted incumbent will lose ground in the pre-convention moments and fate will favor them.

During my many runs for re-election, it appeared that the Democratic presidential nominees were looking like a sure thing (e.g. Mondale and Dukakis.) So it is far too early to make any serious predictions about any of the candidates of either party. You can anticipate a blizzard of polls in the months to come but ignore them as too early and too soon. These early birds will not catch any worms.

Jerry Kremer

Photo credit Getty Images

2023 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Lavine Introduces Bill For Library Bill Of Rights

AMANDA OLSEN

aolsen@antonmediagroup.com

State Assembly member Charles Lavine recently introduced a bill that would require all libraries that accept public funds to adopt the American Library Association’s library Bill of Rights. This would create a standard across all libraries for the preservation of access to information and use of the library.

The bill states that “Every free association library, public library, hospital library, Indian library and library system which receives any portion of moneys appropriated by the state shall adopt the American Library Association’s library bill of rights that indicates materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval or, in the alternative, develop a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books or other materials within the library or library system.”

information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

OCT 15Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood

OCT 19+20 Lee Brice

OCT 21Monsters of Freestyle

OCT 28Parliament Funkadelic feat. George Clinton

OCT 29Aqui Esta La Salsa

NOV 1Rumours of Fleetwood

Mac

NOV 3 The Tenors: Now & Forever Tour

NOV 4Almost Queen - A Tribute to Queen

NOV 5John Oliver

NOV 10Masters of Illusion

NOV 11Paul Anka

NOV 12Celebrating David Bowie feat. Peter Murphy, Adriant

Belew,

Lavine is concerned with the recent national uptick in requests to limit or ban materials from libraries. “The incidents of this suppression of expression and free thought have increased dramatically over the course of the last several years, coinciding with the increase of hatred in general, antisemitism, anti-Asian hatred and anti LGBTQIA+. They go hand in hand,” the assemblyman said.

Lavine is hopeful that adopting the ALA’s Bill of Rights will help patrons better understand how the library makes its decisions. “While the bill that I introduced is not designed or intended to be a panacea, it is a step in the right direction; anything and everything we can do to focus the public’s attention on (restricting access to material), and this more organized, group activity which is designed to suppress free thought,” Lavine said.

Library Bill of Rights

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest,

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.

V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.

Charles D. Lavine NYS Assemblymember, 13th District, Nassau County.

(Photo by the Office of Charles Lavine)

60

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On an afternoon before their second Zac Brown Band concert at Jones Beach Amphitheater on Sept.17, John Driskell Hopkins, multi-instrumentalist and founding member, and Matt Mangano, bassist, took a boat out to the bay house of Paul Annunziato.

“Jones Beach is an incredibly unique venue,” Hopkins said. “Our New York crowds in general are the best crowds that we have.”

Annunziato is a longtime friend of Hopkins’, as well as a supporter of Hopkins’ foundation, Hop On A Cure, that helps to fund research to prevent, reverse, and cure ALS (Amyotrophic

Hop On A Cure

Zac Brown Band’s John Driskell Hopkins raises money for ALS through foundation

BY JENNIFER CORR jcorr@antonnews.com

Lateral Sclerosis). Hop on a Cure also aims to raise awareness, build a compassionate community, and unleash the healing power of hope.

Back in July, Annunziato, along with The Lavin and McMahon Families, banned together to hold a fundraiser, complete with a performance from the John Driskell Hopkins Band, in Lattingtown for Hop On A Cure. Attendees raised $55,000, and those who made the largest donations at the fundraiser were also invited to the bay house on Sept. 17 for a meet and greet with Hopkins and Mangano.

“The foundation, in essence, raises money to find a cure,” Annunziato said. “If you go to any Zac Brown Band concert, they mention it. People donate and John’s friends like me are constantly spreading the word.”

Hopkins said that Annunziato, who he called a dear friend, has been an incredible support system for Hop On A Cure.

The bay house, nestled in the South Oyster Bay, overlooks the amphitheater. With only water and marsh surrounding the bay house, it provided the perfect environment for skeet shooting, which

everyone took a turn at. Even Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman paid a visit.

“I always want to show off all of the attributes of Nassau County and certainly these bay houses and this beautiful waterway is something that we’re very proud of in Nassau County,” Blakeman said. “I told John Hopkins that next time he’s in Nassau County, we’re going to coordinate and do a fundraiser for Hop On A Cure.”

Hopkins was diagnosed with ALS in 2021, which inspired him to immediately create Hop On A Cure. ALS, according to the Hop On A Cure website, “is a neurological disease that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement (the muscles we have conscious control over). The disease is progressive, meaning the symptoms get worse over time. Individuals affected lose their strength and the ability to control those voluntary muscle movements which include speaking, eating, mobility, and even breathing.”

The life expectancy for ALS after onset of symptoms is typically 3 to 5 years. However, 10 percent of people with ALS survive for 10 years or more. Hopkins, who lives in Atlanta with his family, said when he was diagnosed, he didn’t know what ALS was.

“We fully believe that this is a curable disease,” Hopkins said. “And we believe that it can be cured soon. We feel like we’re on the verge of discoveries that will lead to longevity and livable ALS

conditions. Several years ago HIV was a death sentence and now it’s not. We need to get ALS to that point where people who are diagnosed with the disease can stop progression and then we can work towards reversing it.”

Hopkins said that for so long, support around finding the cure to ALS was “hopeless.”

“You would get diagnosed and then the doctors would say get your affairs in order,” Hopkins said. “We want to change that mentality.”

Hopkins said that with his massive platform through the Zac Brown Band, he felt a responsibility to spread the word. “The band’s been behind me since day one,” Hopkins said. “They’re definitely my extended family.”

As far as balancing performing, recording and touring with managing ALS, Hopkins said he’s still “playing and singing.”

“That’s the bar,” Hopkins said. “Even if I’m playing and singing and have to sit down, I believe we’ll find a way for me to play and sing until I can’t. Hopefully we find some things in the coming years that will allow me to keep doing it.”

Mangano said that while it’s been hard watching his friend, Hopkins, fight ALS, it’s also been inspiring. “It’s inspiring to watch Hop’ and how he confronted this thing head on,” Mangano said. “I think that’s a testament to his tenacity and his internal willpower that he has to overcome challenges.”

John Driskell Hopkins, lead guitarist and founding member of Zac Brown Band, wearing a Nassau County Police Department cap at a bay house near Jones Beach.

(Photo by Jennifer Corr)

MEDICINE PROFILES

IN

UNDOCUMENTED FROM IMMIGRANT TEEN TO WORLDCLASS SURGEON

Advances in pediatric cancer treatment

Double neural transplant

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

By John L. Gomes, MD

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

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.

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

Undocumented: From Violent Streets To A Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Harold Fernandez shares the path to his success

BY CHRISTY HINKO chinko@antonmediagroup.com

“There was a lot of violence,” Dr. Harold Fernandez, a Northwell thoracic surgeon said. “In the same streets where I played soccer every day, I saw friends and family members lose their lives.”

Fernandez recounted his days as a young boy, growing up in Medellín, historically one of the most violent cities in Colombia since the 1980s. Fernandez said, “The city was going through a lot of turmoil because of the war between the government and Pablo Escobar.” Fernandez said this is the reason that his mother, Angela, and his father, Alberto, initially came to America on temporary work visas, but overstayed. Angela supported her husband’s plan to temporarily go to the United States, acquire some new skills and earn some extra money, but she quickly fell in love with America. She could not hide her heartsickness from being separated from her sons, Harold and John Byron, who she left in their grandmothers’ care back in Medellín. “I was 13; my brother, John, was 11,” Fernandez said. “My mother imagined having her whole family join them one day, with the safety and all of the benefits that America had to offer.”

Angela cried every day, struggling with being apart from their sons. One day, a coworker mentioned that their daughter would be making the journey from Colombia to America by way of the Bahamas. The trip would take three days at most, perhaps she could chaperone Harold and John for their journey north? Angela was excited and full of hope, but Alberto was hesitant. After some discussion they decided to press forward with the trip. Fernandez and his brother began their journey on Friday, Oct. 13, 1978.

The travelers boarded a plane in Medellín headed to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. They then took a puddle-jumper for 130 miles from Nassau to Bimini, a small island just 50 miles due east of Miami. They landed in Bimini, but the sea conditions were treacherous, halting their passage by boat from Bimini to Miami. “We waited for two weeks in Bimini for the conditions to subside,” Fernandez said. “Communications in those days were difficult; you had to go to a payphone calling center; we could not tell our parents what was happening.”

The boys’ only option was to call back to Medellín to assure their grandmothers that they were safe and that all was still well. Their message would then be relayed to New Jersey to their presumably frantic parents. “We had to pretend to be reporting back about a vacation because we were afraid that the immigration authorities in the Bahamas would know what we were doing,” Fernandez said.

The boys feared they would be deported before they had a chance to touch American soil and get to the safety of Angela and Alberto. “We finally made our departure heading to Miami. It was at night, and by a small boat, so as to not be detected by the U.S. Coast Guard,” Fernandez said. “The ride to Miami was very rough; everyone on the boat was sure the boat would capsize.” Fernandez said what he remembers most about the boat ride to Miami was that everyone was crying and reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

The boat arrived safely at an abandoned dock in Miami. Fernandez and his brother made contact with family friends in Miami, who were in touch with their parents to give them the update. They stayed at the apartment of those friends before taking a taxi to the airport and boarding a flight from Miami to Newark. They were briefed ahead of their flight. “They told us, ‘when you see your parents, you have to make sure not to celebrate as to call attention to yourselves; this will surely alert immigration authorities,’” Fernandez remembered. “Remember, I had not seen my parents in many years now. We started running and crying and hugging each other; we were all thanking God that we were together again.”

Fernandez recalled his shock at the abundance. “Back in Colombia, an apple is a luxury. Our grandmother would buy an apple and cut it into little wedges; we all would get a little wedge,” Fernandez said. “My mom had whole apples on the table in a little basket. On the first night, me and my brother, John, we couldn’t sleep thinking about those apples. We went to my mother’s bedroom and woke her up and asked, ‘Mom, could we get one of the those apples?’”

The family was all together again, but with the years of separation, there was a lot of work to be done to rebuild.

“The first months were rough in America for me. If people knew me then, they would say I was a troubled teenager, similar to other kids they might see coming from other countries. I was smoking cigarettes and was trying to learn how to drink hard liquor, getting into fights at school.”

The school principal called Angela and said if her sons continued to fight in school they would be suspended.

“I saw my mother break down,” Fernandez said. “It was then that I realized I had to change my life around.”

He made the decision to get a job delivering newspapers for the Hudson Dispatch (now merged with The Jersey Journal). Fernandez wanted the glory of being called “The best delivery boy in America” to make his mother proud. He began getting up at 4:30 a.m. to do his route, whether it was

raining or snowing. He even remembers doing his route while he was sick. He started with 90 deliveries and worked his way up to 120 papers. Within a year, he had been named “Harold Fernandez: Newspaper Carrier of the Month”. It was printed in the newspaper, a clipping that Fernandez still has in his personal papers today. “I remember my mother cut it out and carried it with her in her purse and showed it to everyone, even people she did not know,” Fernandez said. “My father also put it on his locker at work.”

That wasn’t enough for him though. “I think that was the spark,” Fernenadez said. “I believe it’s what led me to get accepted to Princeton University and eventually to Harvard Medical School.”

There was a problem. “I did not have documents. I applied to Princeton with a fake social security card and a fake Green Card,” Fernandez remembered.

Within a year, Fernnadez received a letter from the dean of foreign students at Princeton. “She wanted to see my Green Card. I thought everything was going to come to an end,” Fernandez said. “I had an amazing professor of Spanish literature [at Princeton], Professor Arcadio DíazQuiñones. I remember going to ask if I could speak with him for some advice. He agreed to see me and before I could say a word, I just

started crying inconsolably.”

Díaz-Quiñones held counsel with the then-president of Princeton University, William G. Bowen, that evening and returned to Fernandez with a message from Bowen: “Tell Harold that everything is going to be OK, not to worry and to continue with his coursework.” The university allowed Fernandez to change his status from a fraudulent citizen student to a foreign-status student, so long as he agreed to provide the correct information and documentation as a citizen of Colombia. A testament to the quality of student that Fernandez was up until that point, Princeton awarded Fernandez a complete scholarship.

Bowen, a man well before his time, made many seemingly radical, but worthy and fair decisions toward the betterment of the institution. “He was a remarkable person; he was the first president at Princeton to accept women, African American and Jewish students, and obviously in my case, an undocumented student; I am grateful for him, for DíazQuiñones, for Princeton and America in general,” Fernandez said.

Fernandez takes every opportunity to tell immigrant students today that there are a lot of good people who really do want to help make their lives better. He encourages all students to look for opportunities and take chances.

Fernandez’s story is timely, with immigration conflicts and stories headlining the news for more than half a decade. “It is a complicated situation right now because we have not seen any leadership from republicans or democrats to deal with the problem,” Fernandez said. “There is definitely a need here for workers in America, but no one has come up with a way to do it the right way. It is important for the people who are here already [citizens] to know that their own jobs are protected. It is also important for Americans to know that the borders are secure, that criminals and terrorists are not coming in. It is important for those who are coming over to come in a responsible way. Yes, I came in undocumented at a very young age. My parents were already here waiting for us. Parents who send their kids ahead first are not being responsible. There is no substitute for kids being with their parents or families.”

Fernandez loves Colombia and returns often, but his family is here and the United States is his home.

He is the author of Undocumented: My Journey to Princeton and Harvard and Life as a Heart Surgeon, independently published in 2019.

Advances In Pediatric Cancer Treatment

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

As medical research and technology continue to advance, there have been significant developments in the field of pediatric cancer in recent years. These developments have improved our understanding of the disease, diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, and outcomes for young cancer patients. Here are some of the newest and most promising developments in pediatric cancer:

Precision Medicine and Targeted Therapies

Precision medicine has been a game-changer in pediatric oncology. Researchers are increasingly able to identify genetic mutations and alterations specific to a child’s cancer, allowing for the development of targeted therapies. These therapies are designed to attack the cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, reducing side effects and improving treatment effectiveness. Targeted therapies have shown promising results in clinical trials for various pediatric cancers, including neuroblastoma and certain types of leukemia.

Immunotherapy

Advancements

Immunotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment approach in pediatric cancer. CAR-T cell therapy, for

instance, involves modifying a patient’s own immune cells to target and destroy cancer cells. This therapy has shown remarkable success in treating pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and certain types of lymphoma. Ongoing research aims to expand the application of immunotherapies to other pediatric cancer types.

Liquid Biopsies

Liquid biopsies are non-invasive tests that can detect genetic alterations and biomarkers associated with cancer in a patient’s blood or other bodily fluids. This technology is particularly promising in pediatric oncology, as it offers a less invasive and more accessible method of monitoring disease progression, detecting relapses, and guiding treatment decisions. Liquid biopsies hold the potential to improve early diagnosis and reduce the need for painful tissue biopsies in children.

Advancements in Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy techniques have evolved to be more precise and less harmful to healthy tissues in pediatric patients. Proton therapy, for example, delivers radiation more precisely, minimizing damage to surrounding organs and tissues. This advancement is particularly beneficial for children, as it reduces the risk of long-term

side effects and improves the quality of life for survivors.

Genomic Profiling and Research Collaborations

Collaborative efforts among researchers and institutions worldwide have led to extensive genomic profiling of pediatric cancers. Large-scale projects, such as the Pediatric Cancer Genome Project, have identified numerous genetic mutations and drivers of pediatric cancer. This wealth of genetic data is invaluable in developing targeted therapies and improving treatment strategies for children with cancer.

Supportive Care and Survivorship Programs

There is a growing focus on improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients and survivors. Survivorship programs are expanding to address the unique medical and psychosocial needs of childhood cancer survivors. This includes addressing long-term side effects, monitoring for secondary cancers, and providing comprehensive support for survivors and their families.

Patient-Centered Research and Advocacy

Patient-centered research has gained prominence in pediatric oncology. Children and their families are

increasingly involved in the research process, contributing to study design, decision-making, and advocacy efforts. This approach ensures that research aligns with the needs and priorities of pediatric cancer patients and their families. Despite these significant developments, challenges remain in pediatric cancer research and treatment. These include the need for increased funding, access to cutting-edge therapies, and the development of therapies for rare and less well-studied pediatric cancers. The progress made in recent years provides hope for improved outcomes and a brighter future for children facing cancer. As research continues to advance, breakthroughs that will enhance the diagnosis, treatment, and overall care of pediatric cancer patients is always on the horizon.

(Getty Images)

Moo, MD Breast Surgical Oncologist MSK in Nassau & Commack

Double Neural Bypass: First Of Its Kind

Long Island man regains use of arm through implant, machine learning

BY AMANDA OLSEN aolsen@antonmediagroup.com

Aparalyzed man regains hope, and so much more, in a first-of-its-kind clinical trial that’s giving him the ability to move his hands/arms but also regain the sense of touch again, without being hooked up to the computer.

Keith Thomas became a quadriplegic in a diving accident off Montauk in July 2020, at the height of COVID. Thomas lost all sensation and movement below his chest, and in the time following the accident, Thomas says he wasn’t sure he’d live or if he wanted to.

Now, thanks to what researchers are calling a “double neural bypass” he’s determined to lead by example and become participant #1 in this groundbreaking clinical trial at The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health.

Alone and isolated in the hospital for more than six months, Thomas found new hope by participating in Prof. Bouton’s clinical trial and is grateful to be a part of something so historic and larger than himself. “The only thing I want to do is to help others. That’s always been the thing I’m best at. If this can

help someone even more than it’s helped me somewhere down the line, it’s all worth it,” Thomas said.

Part of the trial included a grueling 15hour surgery—portions of which Keith was awake—during which researchers implanted

five electrodes into Keith’s brain. “Because we had Keith’s images and he was talking to us during parts of his surgery, we knew exactly where to place the brain implants,” said Dr. Ashesh Mehta, professor at the Feinstein Institutes’ Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, director of Northwell’s Laboratory for Human Brain Mapping and the surgeon who performed the brain implant. “We inserted two chips in the area responsible for movement and three more in the part of the brain responsible for touch and feeling in the fingers.”

Now, through those implants, machine learning and novel stimulation technology, scientists can reconnect Thomas’s brain to his body to his spinal cord. This double neural bypass forms an electronic bridge that allows information to flow once again between the man’s paralyzed body and brain to restore movement and sensations in his hand with lasting gains in his arm and wrist outside of the laboratory.

Back in the lab, through two ports protruding from Thomas’s head, he connects to a computer that uses AI to read, interpret and translate his thoughts into action, known as

thought-driven therapy and the foundation of the double neural bypass approach.

Chad Bouton, professor in the Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine at the Feinstein Institutes, vice president of advanced engineering at Northwell Health, developer of the technology and principal investigator of the clinical trial, described the way the nervous system works in an uninjured person: “So normally, you’d have signals traveling from your brain, these are areas right above your ear on each side of your head. The motor strip, as it’s called, is this vertical kind of strip above your ear and then right behind that is the sensory area. So normally, your signals would travel from your brain and the motor and sensory areas. Say you want to open your hand. Well, that signal would travel down the brainstem and down to the spinal cord. Well, the problem when you have a spinal cord injury like Keith is that it blocks or dramatically reduces those signals.”

He then went on to detail how the neural bypass works in both directions, hence making it a “double bypass”: “What we’ve done is put chips in the brain, first in the motor area to pick up the signals and then reroute

Feinstein Institutes AI Researchers Receive NIH Grant For Risk And Prevention Tools

Hospitalized adult patients whose medical conditions worsen after being admitted, requiring escalation of care, such as transfer to the intensive care unit (ICU) or intervention of a rapid response team, may benefit from monitoring by artificial intelligence (AI). Scientists at The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research were recently awarded $3.1 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to fund a new study that would harness AI and machine learning (ML) to help doctors and nurses monitor patients in busy medical and surgical wards to identify and prevent deterioration and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

The study team is led by Theodoros Zanos, PhD, associate professor at the Feinstein’s Institute of Health System Science and Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, and includes Karina Davidson PhD, Michael Oppenheim MD, Alex Makhnevich MD, Beth Friedman RN, and others at the Feinstein Institutes and Northwell Health, New York’s largest health system. The group will develop and implement ML models with the goal of

improving the monitoring of patients once they are admitted in order to identify who might undergo a rapid decline to address it sooner.

“Some patients who are admitted for one condition are not explicitly showing symptoms of other concerns, which can lead to their health deteriorating and even dying,” said Dr. Zanos. “This research will leverage vast patient data, new continuous

monitoring technologies and AI to identify those often-unidentified risks and subtle early worrisome trends and enable life-saving interventions.”

Dr. Zanos and his team will turn to Northwell’s large, diverse clinical dataset using electronic health records (EHRs) from more than 2.4 million hospitalizations to generate ML predictive models. The clinical support tools will help clinicians and nurses identify in advance patients at risk of deterioration and clinical reasons to enable timely interventions. These tools also will identify those patients who are more stable. The study will collect and leverage patient data using a continuous monitoring (CM) device, the VitalConnect VitalPatch, that will be placed on patients upon admission to the hospital, to develop more accurate prediction models.

Dr. Zanos is a leader in health care AI. His research revolves around developing algorithms that will enable early diagnosis, disease severity assessment, personalization and adaptability of effective therapies. In 2020, he and his

lab developed a digital tool that predicts a hospitalized patient’s overnight stability and determines whether they could be left undisturbed overnight to sleep, recover and discharge faster. This vital sign monitoring tool, called “Let Sleeping Patients Lie,” used a vast body of clinical data from the patient visits, including respiratory rate, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, body temperature and age.

Last year, Dr. Zanos published in Nature Communications results of a two-and-ahalf-year-long study which used 35,000 COVID-19 diverse patients to develop a new digital clinical support tool that accurately predicts a patient’s outcomes and aids in clinical care decision-making.

The Feinstein Institutes continues to invest in the use of technology and artificial intelligence to help improve patient outcomes and bridge health disparities. Most recently, the Feinstein Institutes received a $10 million gift from Scott and Debby Rechler to create the Scott and Debby Rechler Center for Health Outcomes within the Institute of Health System Science.

—Submitted by Feinstein Institutes

Keith Thomas is able to feel his sister hold his hand for the first time since a diving accident in 2020 left him paralyzed from the chest down.

(Photo by Northwell Health)

Theodoros Zanos, PhD.

(Photo by Feinstein Institutes)

them from the brain around the spinal cord injury and go we go straight to the muscles, and so every time he thinks about moving, we reroute those signals and activate the muscles that he’s thinking about.

For sensation, we go the other direction. So we have tiny sensors on his fingertips that pick up pressure or the feeling of somebody’s hand, and the bypass reroutes them around the spinal cord injury.”

The bypass starts with Thomas’s intentions (e.g. he thinks about squeezing his hand), which sends electrical signals from his brain implant to a computer. The computer then sends signals to highly-flexible, non-invasive electrode patches that are placed over his spine and hand muscles located in his forearm to stimulate and promote function and recovery. Tiny sensors at his fingertips and palm send touch and pressure information back to the sensory

area of his brain to restore sensation. This two-arm electronic bridge forms the novel double neural bypass aimed at restoring both movement and the sense of touch.

“This is the first time the brain, body and spinal cord have been linked together electronically in a paralyzed human to restore lasting movement and sensation,” said Bouton. “When the study participant thinks about moving his arm or hand, we ‘supercharge’ his spinal cord and stimulate his brain and muscles to help rebuild connections, provide sensory feedback, and promote recovery. This type of thought-driven therapy is a game-changer. Our goal is to use this technology one day to give people living with paralysis the ability to live fuller, more independent lives.”

The goal of the trial is to restore lasting movement and sensation by reconnecting the brain/body and translating real-time thoughts into actions outside of the lab. This technology may one day help millions of others like Thomas who suffer from paralysis, stroke or other disorders.”

Thomas can now move his arm at will and feel his sister’s touch as she holds his hand in support. This is the first time he has felt anything in the three years since his accident.

Thomas said he hopes people read his story and it gives them hope. “People keep telling me I’m an inspiration in. So I hope that comes across. I’m just very hopeful. I’m thankful for the team and Northwell for giving me the opportunity to be the first person to do this.”

—with information from Northwell Health

Partnership To Lower Healthcare Costs

Catholic Health and Empire BlueCross BlueShield announced on Sept. 6 an agreement focused on new care delivery models designed to lower costs and increase value for people on Long Island. This latest multi-year agreement builds upon the longstanding relationship between the two organizations.

Through this innovative partnership, Catholic Health’s payment rates will be connected to improved health outcomes and quality-of-care indicators, reflecting Catholic Health’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality care.

“Value-based care is transforming the health care industry and Catholic Health is at the forefront of that transformation,” said Julie Kapoor, Senior Vice President, Revenue Management and Managed Care at Catholic Health. “Our partnership with Empire BlueCross BlueShield helps us to proactively identify opportunities to reduce the costs of care while improving patient health. The signing of this agreement will allow us to stay focused on the delivery of exceptional care while also improving access to affordable health services on Long Island.”

Aligning payment to quality outcomes like readmission rates, patient safety, and

patient satisfaction increases preventive care, improves chronic condition management, reduces hospital admissions, incentivizes whole health and ultimately lowers costs for Long Island healthcare consumers and their employers.

“Our continued partnership with Catholic Health will keep care affordable for Long Islanders by aligning payments with health outcomes instead of on the volume of care provided—a win-win for employers and consumers,” said Daniel Jorgenson, Vice President, Healthcare Networks at Empire BlueCross BlueShield. “At Empire, we are focused on our mission to improve the health of all New Yorkers. When we have an innovative partner like Catholic Health, who shares our openness to creative thinking, we are better able to make a real difference in the lives of our members. There is no health system that has made a more meaningful commitment to our value-based relationship, including being the first system in New York to join with us on the Epic Payer Platform to support communications between payers and providers. We look forward to continuing to grow this important partnership.”

—Catholic Health

Dr. Chad Bouton

(Photo by Northwell Health)

Backyarding On A Budget

Six money-saving hacks for fall

Fall is an opportune time to set up your backyard for year-round success. Work put into landscaping in the fall determines the quality of the space for all of your family’s backyarding activities, from family football games at Thanksgiving and Easter egg hunts in the spring, to taking your office to the back patio and meditation in a backyard hammock.

“Work in your yard, and it will work for you. That’s always been our motto, but it’s particularly important to follow this credo in the fall when we can make the most impact in our yards,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, which encourages people to care for and use the green space around them. “You don’t have to break the bank to create a backyard that will serve many purposes for your family year-round.”

Here are six money-saving hacks for creating the backyard of your dreams:

1Clean out ower beds and add mulch. Simply cleaning out your flower beds (use a leaf blower to make quick work of the task) and adding a fresh layer of mulch

Fall is an opportune time to set up your backyard for yearround success.

works wonders. New mulch not only holds weeds at bay, it also helps retain moisture around plants, trees and shrubs.

2Prune bushes and trees.

Trimming bushes, shrubs, and trees is another inexpensive way to make a big impact in your yard’s aesthetic. Use a chainsaw, trimmer or hedger to remove dead or dying branches and stems. This preserves the health of the main branch and improves the shape of the plant. Pruning also encourages plants to flower later.

3Keep grass mowed and weeded.

Regular lawn mowing helps your grass stay healthy and strong and improves the overall appearance of your yardscape without spending much money.

In the fall, cut your lawn shorter than during the rest of the growing season and continue to mow until your grass goes into hibernation for the winter.

4Pick perennials.

Perennials – those cold-hardy plant species that will return again in the spring—are a smart money choice because you only have to buy them once to enjoy them for years to come.

5Plant climate-appropriate species.

Native plants – those that occur naturally in your region—are a smart buy any time of the year. They are more likely to thrive in your micro-climate without much maintenance or watering. They are also better for local wildlife and pollinators and help preserve the balance of the natural ecosystem.

6Look for deals.

Many nurseries and home improvement stores offer endof-season sales on landscaping essentials from plants to outdoor power equipment (mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, etc.) that make even big backyarding tasks easier.

—TurfMutt Foundation

TuffMutt Foundation

(Photo credit Getty Images)

KIDS CORNER!

Did you know that children have rights? In fact, the United Nations, an organization of most of the world’s countries, recently added the right to a clean environment to the list of children’s rights. Here are some of the ways they think governments need to respect the right to a clean environment:

•Best interests of the child

When making decisions about the environment and climate change, governments must consider how children will be impacted, and how they will support the wellbeing and development of children growing up today and in the future.

•Right to life, survival and development

Children should be able to live, grow up and develop in healthy, safe environments and have the support they need. Their lives should never be put at risk because of environmental harm like pollution or lead exposure.

•Right

to be heard

•Access to information

Governments should make sure that children have access to clear, accurate environmental and climate-related information, including information about plans and decisions being made, and about actions that children can take themselves. Information should be shared in different ways so that children of different ages and backgrounds can understand it.

•The right to freedom from all forms of violence

Environmental harm and climate change can lead to unstable situations, con icts and inequalities, leaving children at more risk of physical and psychological violence. Governments should make more effort to protect children by investing in services that are for children and by working to solve the root causes of violence.

•Right to health

Children’s physical and mental health should not be affected by climate change, pollution, unhealthy ecosystems, and loss of biodiversity. If a child experiences health issues, they must be able to access healthcare and support.

•Right to social security and decent standard of living

Children should be able to access safe food, clean water, decent housing and materials needed for them to live and grow. Governments need to make sure children are not living in poverty or unsafe conditions.

•Right to education

DidYou Know?

Children should be taken seriously by adults and have a say on issues related to the environment and climate change. Governments should involve children when making decisions about the environment and climate change, and make sure they give feedback to children about how their views were considered.

•Right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly

Children often stand up for their environmental rights as human rights defenders. Many children also spend time with friends and groups where they exchange information and ideas. Governments should support children to express themselves by providing safe and empowering spaces for them to do so. Governments should adopt laws to protect child human rights defenders.

Children should be given environmental education that is accurate and in ways that they understand. Environmental education should support children to connect with, and respect, the environment. The places where children learn should be safe from environmental harm.

•The rights of Indigenous children and children of minority groups

Indigenous children and children of minority groups’ lives, survival and cultural practices are often very connected to their natural environment. Governments should make sure to protect their rights and involve children in all decisions being made about their environment.

•Right to rest and play

Children should be able to play and be active in clean, safe places and connect with our natural world. Governments need to consider where and how children can play and rest when they make plans for new neighborhoods or places where children may visit.

•Right

to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment

The Committee explains that children have the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. Children need a clean environment to enjoy all of their human rights. Children should have access to clean air and water, safe climates, healthy ecosystems and biodiversity, healthy food and non-polluted environments.

Duck Defenders On Duty Rescuing LI waterfowl in distress

Throughout the summer, clusters of fluffy white ducks in and around local ponds are almost ubiquitous. There may even be a few hybridized individuals, a cross between wild mallards and the domestic pekins. But there is a sinister side to this seemingly innocuous staple of park life: all these ducks are either abandoned themselves or are descended from abandoned pets.

While having ducks seems like it would be simple, domestic ducks are far from easy keepers. Many people who have experience with chickens think that ducks can live in the same space. However, ducks have very specific needs in order to stay happy and healthy. No one would be surprised to learn that ducks need water, but this water must be four to six inches deep so they can submerge their entire head to keep their eyes and nostrils clean. If they use a kiddie pool or tub for swimming, the water must be changed every single day. They need their own specialized food and won’t get the nutrition they need from chicken pellets. Males are aggressive during mating season and often hurt the females; if there is more than one male they will fight. Unlike chickens, ducks will frequently stay out all night if they are not rounded up at dusk and secured in their shelter. Additionally, ducks and chickens cannot be housed together, as chickens perch to sleep and ducks rest at ground level.

“There’s not as much overlap as people think. They need a pond or some type of water to swim in, they need water

that will go past their nostrils when they drink, just much different than chickens. Chickens really don’t like that much water and they don’t really want to be splashed or pooped on,” said John Di Leonardo, executive director of Humane Long Island.

Humane Long Island runs multiple campaigns to help animals, from illegal exotic pets to abandoned companion animals. Di Leonardo is the leading expert in duck rescue for the tri-state area. “We work both with wild and domestic fowl from Manhattan to Montauk. We do most of the domestic fowl rescue including chickens, pea fowl, ducks, guinea fowl, etc. but ducks are the animal most abandoned on Long Island.”

Pekin ducks, which are the majority of ducks sold to pet owners, are related to wild mallards, but because of selective breeding their bodies are unsuited to life in the wild. They have large bodies and small wings, which usually means they cannot fly well even for short distances, let alone migrate. This larger body size also means they are constantly hungry. The weight puts pressure on their feet and legs, resulting in more frequent

proper treatments using antibiotics it can develop to osteomyelitis, which is a bone infection and can eat away the bone and cripple or kill the animal,” said Di Leonardo.

People may not be aware that domestic ducks cannot survive without human intervention. There is an assumption that because wild ducks live in a particular pond or canal it will also be habitable for pet ducks. Their cumbersome body shape and bright coloring makes them susceptible to predation. Di Leonardo warns, “A lot of people impulse buy these animals and think, ‘Oh, I live on the water. I feed the wild ducks. When these guys get too big, I can just let them go. They hope for the best. And I don’t think that that’s very realistic, because a lot of these animals die very, very quickly, even if you are feeding them. They can’t fly from predators. I’ve literally rescued ducks frozen into canals on the south shore. So, these animals are just not equipped, even if they’re being fed, even if someone’s watching them. You can’t watch them all the time. They’re just not equipped for ocean life or even pond life on Long Island.”

injuries and a propensity to develop arthritis and a condition called bumblefoot.

“Because these domestics are just so large, there’s so much weight on that injury and their immune systems are so weak from all the inbreeding, this infection really takes root. Without

There is also an environmental impact from abandoned ducks. “They have weakened immune systems when they’re abandoned. They often have diseases that may be communicable to wild ducks. They also overgraze substantially because they’re not getting enough calories. they’re just eating out the root structures alongside the waterways and doing significant damage there,” said Di Leonardo.

If you see domestic or hybrid ducks in local waterways, contact Humane Long Island at John@humanelongisland.org or 516-592-3722.

Athlete Of The Month: Keira McCaffrey

jburns@antonmediagroup.com

As the 2023-2024 school year kicks off in our area, Anton Media Group is proud to honor Mineola High School’s Keira McCaffrey as our Athlete of the Month for September.

As a senior at Mineola High School, Keira has consistently established herself as an accomplished athlete, scholar, and student body member.

Keira, a varsity volleyball middle blocker, previously received both All-County volleyball and Scholar-Athlete recognition from her district. Her additional school and extracurricular activities include being vice president of the school’s student organization, secretary of the National Honor Society, a member of the National Art Honor Society and Athletes Helping Athletes, and participation in the Student Service Center and P.E. Leadership programs. Outside of school, Keira enjoys traveling, going to the beach, and spending time with her family.

Keira McCaffrey

(Photos courtesy of Mineola School District)

Opening Salvos In Budget Debate

JOSEPH SCOTCHIE

jscotchie@antonmediagroup.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has released his office’s proposed budget for the 2024 budget year.

The proposal amounts to $4.1 billion in spending, an increase of $180 million over last year’s budget. That increase also means that 50 new county jobs will be added under the proposed document. The new jobs, according to the budget proposal, will be police, social services, and health departments. Up to 20 new police officers would be hired under the budget. Salary increases will amount to 3.1 percent.

The budget does not contain a property tax levy increase. It also does not reduce taxes or fees. And that’s where the first skirmish has occurred.

Democratic legislators immediately criticized the budget for not containing “immediate” tax cuts.

“Despite Nassau County’s sizable surpluses, healthy fund balance and over $1 billion in reserves, County Executive Blakeman continues to break his promise to further

cut taxes beyond the relief that the previous administration delivered to residents in 2022,” Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Kevan M. Abrahams (D – Freeport) said.

“As we scrutinize this proposal, the Minority Caucus will continue to fight for ‘immediate’ additional tax cuts that the County Executive first pledged two years ago but has thus far failed to deliver. Nassau County taxpayers deserve relief - and they deserve it right now,” Abrahams concluded.

On Wednesday, Sept. 13, Minority Caucus Legislators held a conference at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building, demanding that a $128 million tax cut be included in the 2024 budget.

“During my tenure in the Legislature, I have had a front-row view to the harm caused by financial mismanagement and

the painstaking work it takes to recover from those mistakes,” Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D – Glen Cove) said. “These experiences have engrained in me a cautious approach to overseeing taxpayer dollars, and I strongly believe that Nassau County is in an ideal position this year to responsibly deliver a significant tax cut that will help all of our constituents.”

Blakeman responded in his own statement, “As County Executive I have provided real tax relief to our residents without resorting to the reckless fiscal policies of the past. While the Curran administration had proposed a $150 million dollar tax increase for 2024, my administration has eliminated this tax increase in spite of the fact that inflation has soared to 3.2 percent nationally.”

Commenting on the proposal, Nassau

County Budget Director Andrew Persich praised Blakeman for placing monies in reserve in the event of “unforeseen expenses for revenue shortfalls.” In addition to new hires, the budget also has a reserve fund of $900 million.

Currently, the GOP holds a 12-7 majority in the county legislature. Once a budget is approved, it then goes to the Nassau Interim Finance Authority (NIFA), a state board that controls county finances, for final approval. NIFA came into being in 2000, as an oversight authority to control the county’s then-spending crisis.

NIFA is empowered to issue its bonds and notes for various Nassau County purposes, including the restructuring of a portion of the County’s outstanding debt. In addition, the Authority has certain powers under the Act to monitor and oversee the County’s finances, including Covered Organizations, and upon the declaration of a “control period,” additional oversight authority.

In the absence of a control period, the Authority is empowered, among other things, to review financial plans submitted to it; to make recommendations or, if necessary, adverse findings thereon; to monitor compliance; to make transitional State aid available as it determines; to comment on proposed borrowings by the County and Covered Organizations; and to impose a control period upon making one of the statutory findings.

Nassau Legislature building

(Photo by Alex Nuñez)

WORD FIND

HOROSCOPES

HOROSCOPES

HOROSCOPES By Holiday Mathis

By Holiday Mathis

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

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

INTERNATIONAL WORD FIND

Beneath the surface

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Novelist Kurt Vonnegut suggested, “We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.” is week, you’ll be terri c in a role you once only aspired to. Even so, you’ll be thinking about what to pretend next, feeling fully empowered to grow into any direction you choose.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). “Lots of people want to be the noun without doing the verb,” says creativity guru Austin Kleon. You’re the opposite this week, working diligently without a name. Are you an artist, or a teacher? A warrior, or a peacenik who just happens to be a key player in the battle? Whatever you call it, your role makes the scene play di erently.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’re invested in someone’s battle because there’s an echo of this con ict in your own life. Keep heading toward agreement. What sort of justice would you be happy to get? Note that those who thrill to the adrenaline of con ict will not be in any rush to resolution. Steer clear of the ones who ght for the sake of ghting.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). e occasional odd feeling this week will have you wondering if your experience is normal. Were you to survey a small number of people, you’d be surprised that the “normal” range is a much broader range than you would have thought. And a larger sample size would reveal there is no “normal” at all.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). To be comfortable within yourself is to provide yourself with the best kind of company. As far as your relationships with others go, there’s no reason to weather tensions. If it feels strained, back o . Take a walk, shake o the weirdness, then return to see if you can nd a di erent way to get along.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You could teach people how to do a thing, but you’re better o showing them what needs doing and seeing what they come up with. People will surprise you with their inventiveness, then collaboration ensues. Something that helps you could be adapted to help many others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). If you had to avoid those who would rather win the argument than think straight, you’d be avoiding most. When people are ghting for their side, thinking isn’t what they do best. You’ll have harmony because you avoid arguing altogether and focus solely on the shared goal. You’ll join forces with friend and foe alike to achieve a collective aim.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Your aim of leaving the world a better place than it was before you got here will take over your week with projects and events that wouldn’t happen if not for your proactive e orts. Friends will help out in any way you want, so long as you ask them to and show them speci cally how.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You are healing yourself, though unconsciously. You don’t have to work at it, but you do have to stay out of the way of the process unfolding. at means no worry, longing or rumination. Distract yourself with happy things, and let the natural wisdom of your body and mind weave magic.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). is week, you’ll fall in love with the mystery of an unresolved question. It bothers some not to know, but you savor the anticipation. It’s as though you saw an exciting trailer and are suspended in the excitement of wanting to see a movie that’s yet to be released.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). It will feel strange to accept assistance for something you thought was just about you. But what you think is a “you” problem is actually an issue a ecting all. Your biggest challenge isn’t solving the problem; it’s learning how to ask for help and from whom. is is how you’ll do much good in the world this week.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Style matters this week. e spin you put on something will make a di erence in how it’s received. Even so, you won’t need to get too convoluted with your approach. You already have substance, so all you will need is one or two embellishments to make it sing.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS

Everyone loves what you bring to the party this year, which will never be hard for you to gure out. Your main advantage is that you actually see it as a party in the rst place. While others are seeing “workplace” or “obligation,” you’re seeing an opportunity for fun. Your social instinct and creativity will be rewarded many times over. More highlights: Signing dozens of papers before launching into a fantastic new chapter. Clearing the energy to invigorate a relationship. Hugs and kisses galore. COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

Solution: 22 Letters

WORD FIND

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

Beneath the surface

Solution: 22 Letters

Abyss Algae

Angelfish

Barnacle Bass

Brittle star

Channel Clam

Conch

Coral Crab Curious

Dart Deep Depth Diatoms

Diving

Eels

Gull

Kelp

Killer whale

Limpet

Lobster Magic

Mako Mask

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Solution: There

Solution: There are so many unknowns

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Creators Syndicate

CONTRACT BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER

Date: 9/26/23

FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2023

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

CONTRACT BRIDGE

By Steve Becker

The art of wishful thinking

the third club, and the question is what you should do next.

Before attempting to answer this question, you first try to analyze what you already know about South’s hand based on the clues available thus far. You know from the play that declarer started with precisely three clubs, and you know from the bidding that he has four or five hearts.

Many players find defense a disagreeable chore that is not nearly as stimulating as being the declarer. Despite this, the fact remains that defending well is more important in the long run than good declarer play, for the simple reason that you are ordinarily a defender twice as often as you are a declarer.

Assume you’re East in today’s deal and partner leads the jack of clubs against four hearts. You don’t have to be an exceptional defender to overtake the jack with the queen and continue with the K-A of clubs. West discards a low spade on

You also know, or should know, that South has the A-K of spades, the ace of hearts and the king of diamonds, plus at least another jack! How do you know this? Because South opened one notrump (at least 15 points) and has to have all of those cards to have a proper notrump opening. Does this mean that you can’t beat four hearts, since you can see that the finesse in that suit will work for declarer whenever he attempts it? You can’t really answer that question at this point because it all depends on whether your partner has the eight of hearts!

And so, hoping for the best, you lead another club at trick four! This works out beautifully when your partner, bless him, ruffs with the eight of trump, forcing declarer to overruff with dummy’s ten. As a result, you become certain to score a trump trick no matter how declarer proceeds, and the contract goes 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 Sudoku Puzzle

Answer to last issue’s Crossword Puzzle

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The Floral Park-Bellerose School District has openings for part-time security guards (unarmed) to work during the school day, needed at both of our elementary schools. Responsibilities will include: visitor management screening; monitoring hallways; tour buildings & designated areas to ensure building is properly secured; prevent unauthorized persons from entering buildings; ensure safety of persons using premises. Prior law enforcement experience required. Please apply via OLAS or email Mr. Fred Mandracchia at fmandracchia@fpbsd.org.

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Equal Housing Opportunity

Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, age, marital status, sexual orientation or disability in connection with the rental, sale or nancing of real estate. Nassau also prohibits source of income discrimination. Anton Community Newspapers does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination, call Long Island Housing Services’ Discrimination Complaint Line at 800-6606920. (Long Island Housing Services is the Fair Housing Agency of Nassau and Suffolk Counties.)

Gina On The Go Assemblywoman Sillitti hosts mobile office hours

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (D-Port Washington) announced she is hosting 12 mobile office hours events at local libraries throughout September and October. Each stop on the tour gives residents the opportunity to speak directly with their Assembly representative about any concerns, questions, or priorities they would like addressed.

“I always look forward to my mobile office hours because I get to connect personally with the people I represent,” said Sillitti. “These one-on-one meetings let me hear

directly from you about how I can continue to be a strong voice for Long Islanders in Albany. Please join me and share the issues that matter most to you.”

Sillitti’s office can help residents with a variety of issues, including obtaining benefits, completing government forms and applications, and connecting with state agencies and local services. Her office can also provide information about state programs like the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and School Tax Relief (STAR), replace lost veteran medals or awards and

find legislative solutions to community problems.

The Great Neck Library’s next office hours are on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 4 to 6 p.m.

RSVPs are required for all mobile office hour stops. To reserve a spot, residents should call 516-482-6966. Mobile office hours events are listed below.

—Submitted by the office of Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (Photo from New York Assembly Government Website)

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGALGREAT NECK

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MFRA TRUST 2015-1, Plaintiff, vs. ALEX AMNER BORUKHOV, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 29, 2017,

I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 16, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 7 Oxford Boulevard, Great Neck, NY 11023 a/k/a Oxford Boulevard, Great Neck, NY 11023. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Great Neck, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 2, Block 156 and Lots 47 and 29. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,699,443.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to rovisions of filed udg ent Index # 009787/2009. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.

Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 181405-2 10-4; 9-27-20-13-2023-4T#242530-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ELECTION OF WATER COMMISSIONER OF THE MANHASSETLAKEVILLE WATER DISTRICT

TOWN OF NORTH HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY NEW YORK TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE MANHASSET-LAKEVILLE WATER DISTRICT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT in accordance with Section 212 of the Town Law, an election will be held in the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, and on said day the polls will be open between 12 P.M. and 9 P.M., E.S.T. for the purpose of electing one Water Commissioner for said Water District for a full term of three years ending December 31, 2026. Those ualified electors ho are at least 18 years of age, citizens of the United States, residing within the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District for a period of 30 days preceding the 12th day of December, 2023, and registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections on or prior to November 17, 2023, are eligible to vote in said election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN THAT for the purpose of encouraging greater participation in such election, the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District has been divided into four election districts. These Manhasset-Lakeville Election Districts and the polling places for each district are as follows:

Manhasset-Lakeville Election District A includes all of Nassau County Election Districts 58, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 104 and those portions of Nassau County Election Districts 17, 56, 57, 59, 60 and 99 which are within the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District. The polling place for District A is Company No.

1 Firehouse, 35 Bayview Avenue, Manhasset, New York.

Manhasset-Lakeville Election

District B includes all of Nassau County Election Districts 21, 106, those portions of Nassau County Election Districts 22 28 which are east of Middle Neck Road and that portion of Nassau County Election District 23 which is south of the Long Island Railroad Right-Of-Way. The polling place for District B is Company No. 3 Firehouse, 25 Prospect Street, Thomaston, New York.

Manhasset-Lakeville Election

District C includes all of Nassau County Election Districts 24, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 and those portions of Nassau County Election Districts 22 28 which are west of Middle Neck Road. The polling place for District C is Company No. 4 Firehouse, 97 Jayson Avenue (intersection of Northern Boulevard and Jayson Avenue), Great Neck, New York.

Manhasset-Lakeville Election

District D includes those portions of Nassau County Election Districts 34, 72, 73, 74 and 77 which are within the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District. The polling place for District D is Company No. Firehouse, 21 78th Avenue and Stewart Avenue, New Hyde Park.

All references herein to Nassau County Election Districts are to those within the 16th Assembly District.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN THAT PURSUANT to a Resolution adopted at a meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District on the th of September, 2023, as provided in Section 215 (20) of the Town Law, candidates for the foregoing office shall file their na es and their nominating petitions (available at the District) with the Secretary of the Board of Co issioners at the office of the District, 170 East Shore Road, Great Neck, New York, not later than October 30, 2023 being the last Monday in the month of October next

preceding the date of the election Nominating petitions shall be subscribed by at least t ent five ualified voters of the District. Each such registered voter signing a nominating petition shall affi the date on hich he or she signs the petition, and no such signature shall be effective and counted to satisfy the required minimum of 25 registered voters if affi ed to such a petition earlier than October eing the first on day in the month of October next preceding the date of the election. Residents of the Manhasset-Lakeville Water District, who are eligible to vote for a To n ffice in the Town of North Hempstead, are eligi le to hold office of Water Commissioner.

Dated: September 5, 2023

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MANHASSETLAKEVILLE WATER DISTRICT

MARK SAUVIGNE, CHAIRMAN BRIAN MORRIS, TREASURER STEVEN FLYNN, SECRETARY 9-27-2023-1T-#242678-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notice

Architectural Review Board

PLEASE BE ADVISED that the Architectural Review Board of the Village of Kensington will hold a public hearing on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER at p.m. at the Village Hall located at 2 Nassau Drive, Great Neck, NY on the following application:

ARLEIGH RD. , ESKILDSEN also known as Section 2, Block 229, Lot 502 (PARTIAL ND FLOOR ADDITION RENOVATION).

All persons will be heard at the time and place above stated. Copies of the application are available at the Village Hall for inspection during regular business hours of 9:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m.

Andrea Dennett, Chairperson Joyce Cheung, Co-Chairperson

Architectural Review Board

Dated: September 12, 2023 9-27-2023-1T-#242806-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter:

Agency: Board of Appeals Village of Thomaston

Date: October

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Place: Village Hall, East Shore Road, Thomaston, New York

Subject: Reopened and Continued Hearing. Case No. 23-01. Application of Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization, 11 Pont Street, Thomaston, New York, for variances of Village Code §203-122 and 203-119(D), to legalize and maintain existing air conditioning and or heating units and standby generator. The generator is located in a front yard, where location in a rear yard is required in accordance with standards in Village Code 119(D). Five mini-split units are installed in the front yard, in violation of Village Code §203-122, which requires all such installations on a corner lot to be located in a side yard and in compliance with standards in Village Code §203-122(B).3

Premises are designated as Section Block Lot on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map

At the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matter.

This application is a Type II Matter under the State Environmental Quality Review Act, which requires no environmental review. Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days

prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.

All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, 100 East Shore Road, Thomaston, New York, during regular business hours.

Dated: September BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF APPEALS 9-27-2023-1T-#242836-GN

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Town of North Hempstead Board of Zoning Appeals

Puruant to the provisions of the Code of the Town of North Hempstead, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Zoning Appeals of said Town will meet at Town Hall, Plandome Road, Manhasset, New York, on Wednesday, October 11, to consider any matters that may properly be heard by said Board, and will hold a public hearing on said date to consider applications and appeals.

The following cases will be called at said public hearing starting at 10:00am.

APPEAL Plymouth Realty Co, LLC; Great Neck Rd., Great Neck; Section Block Lot 209; Zoned: Business-A Conditional Use 70-126(A) and variance from 70103(A)(1) to convert a retail space into a restaurant (a conditional use) with not enough parking.

Plans are available for public viewing athttps://northhempsteadny.gov/bzs Persons interested in viewing the full file may do so by any time before the scheduled hearing by contacting the BZA department via e-mail atBZAdept@northhempsteadny.gov.

Additionally, the public may view the live stream of this meeting at https:// northhempsteadny.gov/ townboardlive. Any mem-

ber of the public is able to attend and participate in a BZA hearing by appearing on the scheduled date and time. Comments are limited to 3 minutes per speaker. Written comments are accepted by email up to 60 minutes prior to the hearing. Timely comment submissions will be made part of the record.

DAVID MAMMINA, R.A., Chairman; Board of Zoning Appeals 9-27-2023-1T-#242841-GN

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Inc. Village of Russell Gardens will hold a Public Hearing and Regular Meeting on the 5th day of October at 8:00 P.M . at Village Hall, located at 6 Tain Drive, Great Neck, New York.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER

NOTICE that the Board of Trustees will hold the Public Hearing to consider Local Law (4-2023) to amend Russell Gardens Code Chapter 55, subsection 5513 entitled “Limited Time Parking” to delete subsection and amend subsection as follows:

Time limit of 15 minutes for loading and unloading only. No parking permitted at any time.

Name of Street Side Location Northern Blvd North From a point 71 feet east of the easterly curb line of Tain Drive to a point 178 feet east thereof

And on the proposal of Local Law (5-2023) to amend Russell Gardens Code Chapter 28 entitled “Ground Cover” subsection 28-2 entitled “Nuisance” is hereby amended by the addition of a new subsection D to read as follows:

It shall be unlawful and deemed a nuisance for anyone to permit, suffer or cause to plant, grow and/or maintain a vegetable garden within a front yard or side yard of any

Continued on page 12

Gold Coast International Film & Arts Festival 2023

Spotlights Films, Q&As and Special Events from Oct. 15 to Nov. 1

The 2023 Gold Coast International Film & Arts Festival, taking place Oct. 15Nov. 1, is once again bringing the best in new independent and foreign films and special events to audiences throughout the region at venues across the north shore. Festival to include over 40 films and special events in venues throughout Great Neck, Manhasset and Port Washington including many filmmaker and special guest Q&As.

This year’s Festival, which follows a successful year of near sold-out crowds at Gold Coast’s year-round film screening series, will include the types of award-winning feature length and short films that audiences have come to expect, as well as Q&As with many directors, producers, actors and special guests—including Robin Givens, Jake Paltrow, Larry and Lindsay Berra and others.

In addition to feature film screenings at Manhasset Cinemas, and award-winning short films screened free for the public at area libraries; the Festival will include an interactive Family Festival, a Girls Just Want to Have Fun! ‘80s nostalgia screening and party and the opening of a new exhibit by internationally renowned printmaker Dan Welden.

The 2023 GCIFF will feature an outstanding selection of over 40 short films presented free to the public at the Great Neck Library and Port Washington Public Library.

Great Shorts: Series 1 will be screened on Friday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. at the Port Washington Public Library and Sunday, Oct. 22, at 2 p.m. at the Great Neck Library, followed by a Q&A with several short filmmakers.

Great Shorts: Series 2 will be screened on Tuesday, Oct. 24, at 2 p.m. at the Great Neck Library and Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 2 p.m. at the Port Washington Public Library.

Gold Coast’s short film programs, curated by Alexandra Gil, have always been some of the Festival’s most popular events.

Additional special events to look out for this year include:

• Girls Just Want To Have Fun Screening & Party! Enjoy a big-screen screening of the outrageous ‘80s comedy starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Helen Hunt and Shannen

Doherty. Event will include film screening, swag bags, music, a Neiman Marcus Beauty Bar, cocktails and more. This event is a fundraiser for Gold Coast Arts’ outreach and scholarship programs and several local Parent Teacher Organizations. (Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m. at Manhasset Cinemas)

• Art Explosion! Family Festival, including family-friendly short films and stained glass, pumpkin painting and ceramics workshops and many more special activities. (Sunday, Oct. 15, at 1:30 p.m. at the Gold Coast Arts Center. $20 per child

includes all film and art activities)

• Dan Welden 101: Lasting Impressions—Art Exhibit Opening And Film Screening, a free event including a screening of the documentary film Lasting Impressions, followed by a Q&A with the subject of the film, internationally famous printmaker, educator and inventor Dan Welden and the opening of his new exhibit, Lasting Impressions, curated by Jude Amsel. (Sunday, Oct. 22, Film screening and Q&A at 3 p.m.. Exhibit opening at 4 p.m. at the Gold Coast Arts Center)

• Below The Belt—Virtual Screening & Discus-

sion, a free virtual screening and Q&A presented in partnership with the Katz Institute for Women’s Health, Northwell Health. This moving and captivating documentary follows a diverse selection of women with endometriosis as they navigate their diagnosis within their individual circumstances and ages including personal symptoms, impact on their relationships, and navigating their everyday lives. Followed by a Q&A with distinguished experts from Northwell Health.

(Available virtually from Oct. 19 to 22)

All Festival screenings and events are presented with the support of Founding Festival sponsor the Town of North Hempstead. Additional 2023 sponsors include Nassau County Industrial Development Agency; A.L. Sarroff Fund; Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP; The Katz Institute for Women’s Health at Northwell Health; DeJana Foundation, Neiman Marcus; Warner Brothers Discovery; WNET, The Bristal Assisted Living; Liman Video Rental; the Great Neck BID, Manhasset Cinemas, and many local businesses.

About the Gold Coast International Film Festival

Since 2011, the festival has brought the latest Hollywood hits and Indie favorites to standing room only audiences throughout the fabled Gold Coast of Long Island. Add A-list celebrities and unforgettable events to the mix, and it’s easy to see why the Gold Coast International Film Festival has become the “go to” festival for film buffs and the public. The Gold Coast International Film Festival is produced by the not-for-profit Gold Coast Arts Center.

Visit www.goldcoastarts.org to see the full list of events taking place at Manhasset Cinemas and the Gold Coast Arts Center and view ticket availability.

—Submitted by the Gold Coast Ats Center

Spectacles Named One Of ‘America’s Finest’

Spectacles has been recognized as one of 2023’s America’s Finest Optical Retailers by INVISION, the magazine for the American eyecare professional. The Great Neck based business was named an Honorable Mention in the international contest.

Now in its tenth year, the annual contest highlights the best examples of independent eyewear retailers in the United States and Canada.

“Every year it is our honor to bring our readers the best of the best of independent optical retail in our industry,” said Deirdre Carroll, INVISION’s editor-in-chief. “But a

store wouldn’t really fit our ‘Finest’ criteria if it weren’t an exceptional example of creative marketing, spectacular design, and a unique story. Each year, I am truly astounded by the caliber of entries we receive and this year is no exception!”

Stores are judged on exterior appearance, interior appearance/design, store biography, marketing, web presence and overall individuality.

The top three winners are featured in multi-page spreads in the July/August issue of INVISION and on invisionmag.com. Honorable Mentions are announced in the same

issue and each receives an America’s Finest Optical Retailers profile in a monthly issue of INVISION from September 2023 through June 2024.

For more information, email INVISION’s Editor-in-Chief, Deirdre Carroll, at dee@ invisionmag.com.

Spectacles is located at 80 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck. Visit spectaclesgn.com for more information.

—Submitted by Spectacles of Great Neck

Spectacles of Great Neck. (Photo from Spectacles of Great Neck’s Facebook)

Lasting Impressions exhibit begins on Oct. 22. (Photo from Gold Coast Arts Center)

Film screening on Oct. 18.

SCHOOL

Great Neck Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth R. Bossert has announced the launch of a community-wide survey using ThoughtExchange, a collaborative platform that uses a unique twoway process to allow participants to share their ideas confidentially and rate thoughts that other participants have submitted.

“I created this survey as part of my 100 Day Plan in order to understand different perspectives and to assist in identifying the priorities of the GNPS community,” explains Dr. Bossert, who joined the District on Aug. 1. “By using the ThoughtExchange platform, everyone has an opportunity to share their thoughts and understand what’s most important to the community.”

The survey has one open-ended question: “What priorities and/ or insights would you like the new Superintendent of Schools to be aware of?”

Participants’ responses are shared confidentially. Once

participants have shared their own ideas, they are asked to rate the thoughts that others have provided on a scale of one to five stars (strongly disagree to strongly agree). In the final step, participants can view how the thoughts in the Exchange have been rated by the group.

According to Dr. Bossert, input provided through this Exchange will be used to foster stronger connections and inform future decisions within the District. “I encourage all GNPS stakeholders to share your thoughts and visit the Exchange often to rate new ideas.”

Constituents of the Great Neck Public Schools—including students, parents, faculty, staff, and all residents—are encouraged to participate by visiting https:// tejoin.com/scroll/824418973. The Exchange will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023.

—Submitted by the Great Neck Public Schools District

Great Neck High Schools

Upcoming Sports Schedule

John L. Miller Great Neck North High School. All of the following games are at Great Neck North High School, 35 Polo Rd.

• Friday, Sept. 29 (5 p.m.)

JV Girls Soccer vs. Roslyn High School

JV Field Hockey vs. New Hyde Park Memorial High School Varsity Girls Tennis vs. Jericho High School

Varsity Girls Volleyball vs. Carle Place High School

• Monday, Oct. 2 (5 p.m.)

Varsity Boys Badminton vs. Roslyn High School

JV Girls Soccer vs. Hewlett High School

JV Girls Tennis vs. Great Neck South High School

• Wednesday, Oct. 4

Varsity Boys Badminton vs. Herricks High School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Girls Volleyball vs. Academy Charter School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Girls Tennis vs. Glen Cove High School (5 p.m.)

We’re not just your local newspaper, we’re a member of your community Great Neck Estates, Great Neck Plaza, Kensington, Kings Point, Lake Success, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Thomaston 132 East Second Street, Mineola, NY 11501 • 516-747-8282 AntonMediaGroup.com • Advertising@AntonMediaGroup.com Fresh content delivered to your mailbox each week! Local Politics • School News • Community Calendar • Local Sports Entertainment • Puzzles & Games • Events & Happenings • Classi eds Order online: antonnews.com/subscription or CALL 516-403-5120 TODAY! Don’t Miss a Single Issue! Also serving Great Neck Estates, Great Neck Plaza, Kensington, Kings Point, Lake Success, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock and Thomaston Est. 1908 Vol.72,No.10April122022 Great Neck Record (USPS 791-440) FREE SUBSCRIPTION OFFER See inside for details! North Hempstead: The St. Francis Hospital outreach bus is providing free health screenings for the community (See page 6) School News: The Great Neck North Middle School Lady Blazers go undefeated this season (See page 10) PERSONALIZED EFFECTIVE OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY 1999 Marcus Ave, Lake Success www.agewellpt.com 516.488.8808 TRANSPORTATION 18 Hole GOLF Community, Tennis, Gym, Stores MORE! FULL TIME GENERATORS! Prices Range From $200,000 $2 Million. DISCOVER RESORT LIVING AT NORTH SHORE TOWERS! Call ANNETTE KROLL for a TOUR! Associate Broker 718-631-8867 Enjoy the Ultimate Luxurious Lifestyle! Magic Of Great Neck Realty 215 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck INSIDE Springtime! Check out the best golf locations on Long Island. Springtime LONG Birding Reviews Mayor Re-Elected The Great Neck Plaza Mayor has been re-elected and looks forward to continuing village improvements (See page 3) Mayor Ted Rosen campaigning for election in 2020. (Photo from the United Residents Party Facebook) Use PROMO CODE 1YXT2022 to add a FREE YEAR! Only $2600 for one year & Bigforchanges the SAT Sail away with me Hofstra re-openingcamp Children For A Bright Future Serving . . . GUIDEWINTERANANTONMEDIAGROUPSPECIALDINING Valentine takeoutoptions Crockpot comfort food Local bakers conquercoffee cake market christenings,communions,graduations,rehearsal anniversaries,engagement banquet people SpecialOccasion Packages NowAcceptingReservationsValentine’sDay MEDICINE PROFILES IN CHILDREN’S AN MEDIA SPECIAL FEBRUARY 2022 Suite New 516.627.5113 www.longislandeyesurgeons.com DENTALHEALTH christenings,anniversaries,engagement NowAcceptingPLUS! 45 + SPECIALTHEMED SUPPLEMENTS TOO! (Nassau County Delivery Only)

JV Girls Volleyball vs. Academy Charter School (7 p.m.)

• Thursday, Oct. 5 (5 p.m)

Varsity Boys Soccer vs. Herricks High School

JV Girls Soccer vs. Valley Stream Central high School

William A. Shine Great Neck South High School. All of the folowing games are at Great Neck South High School, 341 Lakeville Rd.

• Friday, Sept. 29

JV Girls Soccer vs. Uniondale High School (5 p.m.)

JV Field Hockey vs. Seaford High School (5 p.m.)

JV Girls Soccer vs. Syosset High School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Girls Volleyball vs. Uniondale High School (6:45 p.m.)

• Monday, Oct. 2

JV Girls Soccer vs. Sewanhaka High School (5 p.m.)

JV Boys Volleyball vs. Farmingdale High School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Field Hockey vs. New Hyde Park Memorial High School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Girls Tennis vs. Hewlett High School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Boys Volleyball vs. Farmingdale High School (6:45 p.m.)

• Tuesday, Oct. 3

Varsity Boys Soccer vs. Jericho High School (5 p.m.)

• Wednesday, Oct. 4

Varsity Girls Volleyball vs. Westbury High School (5 p.m.)

Varsity Boys Badminton vs. Jericho High School (5 p.m.)

JV Girls Tennis vs. Cold Spring Harbor High School (5 p.m.)

JV Girls Volleyball vs. Westbury High School (7 p.m.)

• Thursday, Oct. 5

Varsity Girls Soccer vs. Westbury High School (5 p.m.)

Visit greatneck.k12.ny.us for the full athletic schedules.

LEGAL

from

page

property in the Village. All other landscaping within a front

this matter will be given an opportunity to be heard at said public hearing. A transcript will be provided at a later date. Copies of the law described above are on file in the Clerk’s office and are available for inspection during regular village office hours. Please check the

Village website for updates.

Dated: 9/27/2023

By Order of the Board of Trustees Inc. Village of Russell Gardens

David M. Miller, Mayor Danielle Pennise, Village Clerk Treasurer 9-27-2023-1T-#242861-GN

Men’s Basketball Montreal Trip Proves Great For Team Chemistry And Confidence

On Labor Day Weekend earlier this month, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) men’s basketball team traveled “North of the Border” for a foreign trip to Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It was the first foreign trip for the program since Kings Point visited Ireland during Winter Break in the mid-1990’s.

USMMA took advantage of the NCAA rule that allows teams to make an international trip once every four years, and while in Canada the Mariners competed in three exhibitions against collegiate teams in the Greater Montreal area over three days.

“Our trip to Montreal allowed our team to get a great early start to our season,” said seventh-year head coach Rob Pryor. “We were able to play games, spend time together and enjoy the beautiful city of Montreal! We got better as a team, represented Kings Point well and created memories none of us will ever forget.”

The three contests were against Champlain Saint-Lambert, the only English-speaking school on the trip, Montmorency College and Jean-De-Brebeuf. Although all three games were unofficial and counted only as scrimmages, the Mariners came out on top in each instance, including a nail-biting, two-point victory in

the finale on Labor Day against Brebeuf.

“The Canada trip provided the team with a good start to the season,” said senior captain Bryce Bristow (Plano, Texas). “It felt good to play against other teams after a very competitive week of practices. In Canada we were able to grow together as a team on and off the court.”

It was quite the experience for the Mariners, who not only got to immerse themselves in a new culture, visiting historic sites such as Mount Royal Park, Old Montreal and Olympic Stadium, but also a different style of basketball that is played in the Great White North.

“Our guys showed tremendous upside in Canada,” said junior captain Isaac Vencel (Bloomington, Ind.). “Unfortunately, my year and a half of French classes in middle school did not give me the upper hand on the opponents that I had hoped, as they spoke French fluently during the games. But being able to go 3-0 despite playing with different rules, a different ball and a different court, gave us a ton of confidence going into the regular season. Our rookies were huge for us over the weekend and the team chemistry is at an all-time high going into this new campaign.”

The USMMA men’s basketball program

has experienced great success in recent years, as the Mariners are coming off backto-back seasons in which they qualified for the Skyline Conference Tournament, a feat that was last accomplished after the 201213 and 2013-14 seasons in the Landmark Conference. The team also earned a berth in the ECAC DIII Championships in the 2021-

22 season, the first postseason tournament invite for the Mariners since 2008-09.

The full 2023-24 Merchant Marine men’s basketball schedule will be announced in the coming weeks. Visit usmmasports.com for more information.

—Submitted by Unites States Merchant Marine Academy Athletics

Men’s Basketball Montreal Trip, 2023.

(Photo from the United States Merchant Marine Academy Athletics Website)

North Hempstead Town Board Launches Transparency Portal

The North Hempstead Town Board unanimously approved the launch of a groundbreaking Transparency Portal on the Town’s official website. The resolution, passed with a unanimous vote of 7-0 during the September 5 Town Board meeting, represents a significant step towards fostering openness, accountability, and greater public engagement in local government.

Councilmember Veronica Lurvey, who introduced and championed the legislation, stated, “By mandating that important Town information be made easily accessible to the public, we are aiming to foster openness and accountability within our Town government. This local law will dramatically improve our residents’ ability to

easily access information with one click.”

The newly enacted law mandates that specific documents and information must be published on the Town’s website. These materials will be organized and searchable, allowing residents to easily find important records, documents, and information related to Town affairs. This initiative is a testament to the Town Board’s commitment to transparency and community engagement.

Councilmember Mariann Dalimonte highlighted the portal’s features, stating, “The Transparency Portal will be prominently placed on the Town’s website, providing easy access to a wide range of information, and it will be regularly updated by relevant departments to ensure the

Free Rabies Clinic

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and the Town Board are proud to announce that the Town’s Animal Shelter will be hosting a free rabies vaccination clinic in conjunction with the Nassau County Department of Health. The clinic will be held at the Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter in Port Washington on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Rabies vaccines will be available to dogs and cats, as well as ferrets. You do not have to be a resident of North Hempstead for your pet to receive a free rabies vaccine.

North Hempstead officials will also offer on-the-spot dog licensing applications and renewals to North Hempstead residents.

Owners must bring their dogs on leashes and their cats and ferrets in carriers. Registration is required. The North Hempstead Animal Shelter is located at 75 Marino Ave. in Port Washington.

To make a reservation, or if you have any questions, please call 311 or 516-869-6311.

—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead

information remains current. Residents will also be able to access various reports, such as statistics related to code enforcement and parking tickets, fostering an understanding of Town operations and priorities.”

One of the cornerstones of this legislation is financial transparency. The law requires the publication of executed contracts, financial audits, annual budgets, and capital improvement plans. This level of financial disclosure enhances accountability and builds trust with residents, ensuring that they can track the allocation of public resources.

Councilmember Peter Zuckerman affirmed the Town Board’s commitment to an accountable, engaged, and well-informed community, saying, “By supporting this

‘Governmental Transparency’ local law, we’re demonstrating our commitment to an accountable, engaged, and well-informed community. This law is a crucial step towards a more transparent and participatory local government.”

With the launch of the Transparency Portal, the Town of North Hempstead takes a bold stride toward a more open and responsive government, providing residents with the tools they need to actively participate in shaping their community’s future. For more information and to access the Transparency Portal, please visit northhempsteadny.gov.

—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead

Free Catalytic Converter Serial Number Kit Event

Town of North Hempstead Councilmembers Veronica Lurvey and Peter Zuckerman are proud to announce that they will be hosting an event to distribute FREE catalytic converter serial number kits to residents on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Clinton G. Martin Park starting at 8 a.m. One hundred kits will be provided to the Town by the New York Anti-Car Theft and Insurance Fraud Association.

“We have seen a frightening uptick in catalytic converter thefts here on Long Island over the past year, and I believe it is incumbent upon us as elected officials to do all that we can to protect the property of our residents,” said Councilmember Lurvey. “These catalytic converter serial number kits are an invaluable tool to combat these criminals. I highly encourage residents to take advantage of this program.”

“I would like to assure my constituents that this is an issue of the utmost impor-

tance to me and my colleagues in Town government,” said Councilmember Zuckerman. “I am extraordinarily grateful to the New York Anti-Car Theft and Insurance Fraud Association for providing the Town with the catalytic converter serial number kits. It is important that we all remain proactive, so please stop by the event on October 14 to receive a kit.”

All kits will be registered to the national catalytic converter database and linked to residents’ vehicles. Once residents have obtained a kit, they will need to be taken to a mechanic to have the number etched onto their vehicle’s catalytic converter. Attendees must also bring their license and registration to receive a kit.

All kits must be reserved in advance. For more information or to reserve your kit today, please call 311 or 516-869-6311.

—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead

(Contributed graphic)

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O 516.627.2800

M 917.224.1866

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