Freeport Herald 08-22-2024

Page 1


Firefighters arrive quickly on the scene at Freeport fire

The Freeport Fire Department responded to a house fire at 193 Gordon Place on Aug. 14 at 12:04 p.m., arriving on the scene in less than four minutes, officials said. The firefighters were met with heavy fire conditions that had spread from the back of the home to the interior and were threatening a neighboring property. Firefighters quickly deployed multiple hand lines, containing the blaze and preventing further damage. The homeowner’s cat’s life was lost in the fire.

De La Salle School has new director

Joseph Barry was recently named the director of development at The De La Salle School in Freeport — a private, Catholic middle school for boys — assuming his new position on July 15.

Barry replaces previous director Donald Holden, who left De La Salle for other opportunities.

next generation of caring gentlemen receive the highest quality education, helping them in a non-tuition driven, independent Catholic middle school to overcome economically disadvantaged situations,” he added.

I am proud to join the team at The De La Salle School.

The school, at 87 Pine St., serves boys from the fifth through the eighth grades, and is dedicated to providing quality education to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with a current enrollment of 63 students across those parameters.

Barry’s new role will involve fundraising efforts, building relationships with organizations, securing philanthropic support, and identifying and applying for grants that meet the school’s criteria.

JoSepH BArry
New director of development

“I am proud to join the team at The De La Salle School,” Barry, a resident of East Patchogue, said. “Quality Catholic education helped shape me to be the leader I am today.

“By serving as director of development, I am excited to work with the community to attract support to ensure the

The school emphasizes academic excellence and the development of strong moral and spiritual values — deeply rooted in the teachings of Saint John Baptist de La Salle — and the curriculum is designed to nurture students’ intellectual, emotional and social growth, preparing them for success in high school and beyond.

With small class sizes and individualized attention, the school strives to ensure that every student receives the guidance and resources necessary

Continued on page 3

Bill Kelly/Herald photos

Mayor sets sail on whale watching tour

Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy took part in a thrilling whale-watching tour that showcased the incredible marine life just off the Long Island coast on Aug. 14, 2024.

The trip, conducted by Captain Lou’s Fleet, brought together residents, the mayor, and a naturalist for an unforgettable experience on the Atlantic Ocean.

“I am glad that our residents have such great accessibility to the Atlantic Ocean and its wildlife,” says Mayor Kennedy. “We’re known as the fishing and boating capital of the Northeast because of our waterfront community. We’re going to have to add whale and dolphinwatching as well.”

The mayor’s involvement in the excursion underscores his commitment to promoting Freeport’s rich natural resources and ensuring that residents can enjoy the benefits of living in a vibrant waterfront community.

Departing from the Nautical Mile, the well-known hub for boating and marine activities in Freeport, the tour provided a firsthand look at the thriving marine ecosystem that is closer than many realize.

Within just an hour of leaving the dock, the mayor and his gang encountered three humpback whales and a pod of dolphins

Initially planned as a combination of fishing and whale-watching, the focus quickly shifted to the remarkable whale sightings, which captured the attention of everyone on board.

The mayor was accompanied by Steve Abbondondelo, a naturalist who provided insights into the marine life encountered during the tour.

Also among the participants were Monique Evans and her son, who trav-

eled from Westbury to join the tour, as well as Carol and John Sun of bayside, both retired lovers of charter boat fishing.

As the whale-watching season continues, there is growing anticipation for what future trips might reveal. Captain Lou’s Fleet, which has long been a staple of Freeport’s maritime activities, continues to offer these tours, providing more opportunities for people to connect with the ocean’s wonders.

With the waters just off the coast teeming with marine life, residents have a rare chance to experience the majesty of the ocean without venturing far from home.

As part of the expedition, the mayor and the others went

Photos courtesy Randy Milteer/Village of Freeport
These whales can be seen an hour away from the coast – residents willing to go further out can see even more marine life.
A majestic humpback whale surfaces for a breath, offering a rare glimpse in the calm ocean waters.
The mayor shows off his prize.
fluke fishing.

Barry named new director of development

to succeed.

In addition, the Catholic middle school places a strong emphasis on character development and community service, encouraging students to participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts and service projects.

The school also provides students with scholarships and financial aid, ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality education.

“When I learned about the mission of The De La Salle School to provide an education, a high-quality education, that’s going to change the future for middle school children and help them achieve the success that they need entering into high school, that’s going to allow them to change their course of their life,” Barry said.

from 2022 to 2024, where he helped secure the necessary support to sustain the food bank’s mission of fighting hunger. His efforts at Island Harvest led to substantial food donations and volunteer participation, as well as spearheading new initiatives that opened up new funding avenues.

“It was something that aligned very well with my personal passion, as well as, you know, making sure that those who cannot afford a high-quality education are provided one that’s going to provide the wraparound services that are going to help the students flourish and succeed in life,” he added.

Barry’s professional career includes serving as chief development officer at Island Harvest food bank in Melville,

“I have a deep history in fundraising across Long Island as well as beyond,” Barry said.

Barry also served as vice president of donor relations & engagement at the Community Development Corporation of Long Island, from 2021 to 2022.

From 2013 to 2020, Barry was director of development for the College of Business and the College of Engineering and Applied Science at Stony Brook University.

In addition, he served as director of The INN, known as Interfaith Nutrition Network in Hempstead, from 2009 to 2013, where he expanded the organization’s financial resources and managed its operations.

Barry earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in marketing from the University of Dayton in 1995. He is also deeply involved in his com-

munity, serving as a board member and trustee for the South Country Central School District, a partner in the Molloy University Energeia Partnership, and an active member and former president of the Kiwanis Club of Patchogue.

Barry’s wealth of experience in fundraising and his commitment to community service should serve him well in his new role at The De La Salle School, he said.

“I’m very excited about joining De La Salle school and what we can do to expand fundraising, because it is essential to the program as fundraising allows us to educate students here, and these are students who come from a financially disadvantaged households where they require the tuition,” he said. “The majority of the expense for the students is covered by philanthropy and charitable donations.”

Street dedicated in honor of John Kilbride

On Aug. 10 in Levittown, Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Dennis Dunne, Sr., Town Clerk Kate Murray and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll held a street renaming ceremony to honor the memory of John “Jack” Kilbride, a decorated Vietnam War Veteran and Freeport Police Officer, who passed away from an Agent Orange-related illness just last year.

Town officials were joined by Kilbride’s family and friends, members of the Marine Corp., and local neighbors as they dedicated Jack Kilbride USMC Way at the intersection of Blue Spruce Road and Oaktree Lane in Levittown.

According to Clavin, Kilbride left a lasting impression on his home community of Levittown. Thanks to the rededication ceremony, Clavin says Kilbride’s legacy will continue to live on.

“For generations to come, residents will learn the about the Corporal who guided soldiers through combat, the police officer who advocated for veterans, and the caring man who did anything and everything for his family,” Clavin said.

Kilbride was born and raised in Levittown. A dare from a lifelong friend to “join the family business” is what paved the way for his career as a Marine. In 1967, right after graduation, Kilbride was deployed at the height of the Vietnam War as a member of the India Com-

continued to serve and protect for the next 18 years. He also played a role in the Freeport PBA.

He later worked with former Congressman Peter King, serving as his military congressional aide. He worked with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legions, the Marine Corps League, and Law Enforcement Foundation.

Friends and family said they remember Kilbride as a loving family man, proud American, and a “gentle giant.” Kilbrides’s life was cut short on March 22, 2023, by an Agent Orange-related illness, a chemical that was prominently used in attacks during the Vietnam War. Kilbride is survived by his wife, Virginia, his children Michael, Kelly, and Kristin, and his 12 grandchildren.

During the ceremony, the Town of Hempstead thanked the East Meadow Fire Departments for providing a flag arch, the Levittown VFW Post 9592 Color Guard unit, singer Christopher Macchio, and Rev. Eric Mallette of the Greater Second Baptist Church.

pany in the 3rd Battalion and the 26th Marine Regiment. Throughout his time in the military, Kilbride earned the rank of Corporal and fought as the leader of a rocket section and an explosives expert in major battles. His second tour is where his unit earned the nickname “Walking Dead,” serving with the 9th Marines.

In 1969, Kilbride returned to the United States with a Navy Achievement Medal with Valor and two Purple Hearts. After four days, he joined the Freeport Police Department, where he

“It is an honor to be a part of a ceremony where we can immortalize a true American hero,” Clavin said. “On behalf of the nearly 800,000 residents of America’s largest township, we vow to never forget Jack Kilbride and his service to our country. We are proud have his legacy live on Blue Spruce Road in his memory.” —

Courtesy Joseph Barry
the de La Salle School’s eighth graders were among the de La Salle’s 2024 graduating class.
Charles Shaw
Courtesy Town of Hempstead Hempstead town Supervisor don Clavin, Councilman dennis dunne, town Clerk Kate murray and receiver of taxes Jeanine driscoll held a street dedication at the corner of Blue Spruce road and oak tree Lane in Levittown on aug. 10 in memory of lifelong Levittown resident, united States marine veteran, and former freeport police officer John ‘Jack’ Kilbride.
Joseph Barry

Are you an Email Marketing Specialist?

Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

Responsibilities:

• Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish.

• Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies.

• Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines.

• Monitor and report on campaign performance

Requirements:

• Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field.

• Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles.

• Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

• Position Details:

Flexible: Part-time or Full-time

• Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.

• Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways!

• Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter lberger@liherald.com.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman signed the Mask Transparency Act into law last Wednesday. The controversial law will ban the wearing of non-religious and nonhealth-related face coverings in public spaces.

Mask law in effect, police and village lawyer weigh in

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman signed the Mask Transparency Act into law on Wednesday, a controversial law that bans the wearing of non-religious and non-health-related face coverings in public spaces.

The law, one of the first of its kind in the state, took effect immediately. It aims to enhance public safety by preventing people from concealing their identities, particularly when they may be committing crimes. But the legislation has sparked significant debate and concern among residents.

Blakeman said the law provides police with another resource allowing them to make a decision to gauge whether someone is engaged in a legitimate activity or not.

“We do not want to abridge anybody’s right to free speech and protest, that is a part of the fabric of our nation, and we wouldn’t want to change that,” Blakeman said after signing the bill into law

Wednesday morning. “But when people take liberties that hurt other people’s rights and abridge their constitutional rights and threaten them with violence those are situations that we can not tolerable and they’re not consistent with the United States constitution.”

The Mask Transparency Act has reignited the debate over the balance between public safety and individual rights, a contentious issue that arose during the coronavirus pandemic. Proponents of the law argue that it will help reduce crime by making it harder for people to hide their identities, while opponents fear it could lead to unwarranted stops and arrests.

“Freeport understands that there will be various legal challenges to this County Ordinance,” said Howard Colton, the village attorney of Freeport.

“Freeport will await the determination of the Court before proceeding,” he added.

Additional reporting by Mohammad Rafiq.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7”

Herald file photo

HERALD SchoolS

School district appoints new superintendent

At the Freeport Board of Education meeting on July 16, Ms. Fia Davis was named the next superintendent of schools, effective August 21, 2024.

Ms. Davis brings a wealth of experience in school district administration, having served as the superintendent of Bronx High School Districts 8, 10, and 11 in New York City Public Schools since July 2022, where she managed over 20,000 students.

Under her leadership, her district has been among the top five in the city for reducing chronic absenteeism. She was also part of the 2019-20 cohort of the national Cahn Fellowship for Distinguished Principals at Columbia University.

in secondary education from New York University, and a master’s degree in educational administration from Pace University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at Fordham University.

Before her superintendent role, she spent two years as the deputy superintendent of Bronx District 10 and 15 years as a principal. Ms. Davis holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Africana studies from the New York State University at Albany, a master’s degree

“The Freeport Public Schools Board of Education is extremely proud to welcome Ms. Fia Davis to Freeport Public Schools,” the board stated. “We are confident that she will continue to build upon our district’s successes and drive forward innovative programs that enrich our students’ learning.

“Ms. Davis’s experience and commitment to education will undoubtedly make our district an even more wonderful place for our students, staff, and community.”

Ms. Davis will take over from Kishore Kuncham, who has been with the district for 30 years, including 15 years as superintendent.

“The board of education also wishes to thank Kuncham for his many years

The Farmer’s Daughters

A farmer came in to see us recently with this dilemma. He had a working farm where his twenty something daughter and her husband were engaged full-time. His other daughter worked in the arts in New York City. He wanted to keep the farm in the family, but didn’t know how.

He initially wanted to leave the farm and his other assets to the two daughters in equal shares. We cautioned against this since, we advised, no one likes to do all the work and then split the profits. Additionally, real estate prices could be considerably higher on his death and there might not be enough money in the estate for the working daughter to buy out her sister. We also had to consider the sweat equity the young couple would be building up over the years working the farm. Here’s how the matter was ultimately resolved to the client’s satisfaction.

We deeded the farm now to the working daughter (not her and her husband quite yet) reserving a “life estate” in the farmer so that he had a right to live there for the rest of his

life and preserving his senior tax exemption on the property. We established the value of the property today, and made a bequest on his death, from the farmer’s living trust, of a like amount in cash to the sister before the balance of the trust was divvied up.

Now the young working couple are secure in their future, the non-working daughter gets her fair share of the estate and the farmer is protected in his rights for life. Most important of all, he has the peace of mind in knowing that the farm will stay in the family.

If you’re a business owner, and have one or more children working in the business, you have the same issues. We generally like to see the “working” children take over the business and other assets used to even out the estate distribution with the “non-working” children. Where there are not enough other assets to make the distribution even, then life insurance or a mortgage can be used for this purpose, or the “working” children can pay off the “nonworking” children over a period of years at a rate the family business can afford.

516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre

Ms. Davis will take over from Kishore Kuncham, who has been with the district for 30 years, including 15 years as superintendent, effective August 21.

of dedicated service to our school community. He has guided our district to excellence, and we wish him a wonderful and peaceful retirement.”

“Thank you for the opportunity to join the Freeport community,” said Ms. Davis during the meeting. “I am honored, humbled, and excited to pursue

excellence for the district and create a bright, bold, beautiful, and joyful future for the students.”

Ms. Davis also expressed gratitude to Kuncham for his years of service and dedication to the community.

Courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Fia Davis

HERALD SPORTS

Corbett, left, out of Longwood High School, keys Nassau’s ground attack. At right, Jayden Taylor, a Walt Whitman High School product, tops the depth chart at quarterback for the Lions, who play five of their first six games on the road.

New coach leads Nassau C.C. football

Jhaleel Oswald, a former Nassau Community College football captain and key member of its 2013 Toro Bowl-winning team, is the Lions’ new head coach after running the defense/special teams under predecessor Jamel Ramsay for the past two seasons.

The Lions, who tackled plenty of adversity in 2023 and finished a disappointing 5-5, have more than 80 in the program and kick off the Oswald era with a trip to Cleveland to face Rochester Community and Technical College this Saturday at 4 p.m. The Yellowjackets are coming off a heartbreaking loss to DuPage in the NJCAA National Championship game.

“Last year we went through a lot of trials and tribulations and didn’t play up to our standards,” said Oswald, a free safety during his playing days at Nassau and LIU. “Our expectations are to put out a product that gets us back on track with our foundation and culture,” he said. “I’m not sure if we can measure that with wins and losses this year since we have a very young team with about 60 freshmen, but I know these guys are going to play hard and also work hard in the classroom.”

With five of the first six games on the road, Oswald likes the idea of a youthful team spending lots of time together and building camaraderie.

“It’s both a blessing and a curse,” Oswald said of the challenging schedule that includes visits to Navy Prep, Hudson Valley CC and Hocking in September. “We’re going to find a lot out about ourselves early,” he

2024 Schedule

Aug. 24 Rochester CC Away 4 p.m.

Sept. 7 Navy Prep Away

Sept. 13 Army Prep Home 7 p.m.

Sept. 21 Hudson CC Away 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 Hocking Away 1 p.m.

Oct. 4 Wagner JV Away 11 a.m.

Oct. 12 Eric CC Home 1 p.m.

Oct. 19 Monroe Home 1 p.m.

Oct. 26 Hudson CC Home 1 p.m.

Nov. 2 Louisburg Away 1 p.m.

added. “At the same time, it’s a good opportunity to grow the chemistry. We’re trying to look at the schedule in a positive way and we’ll have a bunch of home games in the second half of the season.”

The Lions’ home opener at Mitchel Athletic Complex is under the lights against Army Prep on Friday, Sept. 13. They’ll then play three consecutive games at home in October, versus Erie CC, Monroe and Hudson Valley CC. “We’re playing all respectable programs with quality coaches,” Oswald said. “Every week is going to be a battle.”

Some key new faces to the offense are former Suffolk County high school standouts Jayden Taylor (Walt Whitman quarterback) and Caleb Corbett (Longwood running back.)

Taylor, a lefty with a strong arm, mobility, leadership qualities and knowledge of the game, improved every day in camp, Oswald said, to win the starting job. “He’s a great kid who can do a little bit of everything and I’m really looking forward to him leading our offense,” Oswald said.

Corbett will lead a backfield that includes transfer Eric Harris and serve as one of Oswald’s targets. “Caleb is a powerful runner with good hands and he’s stood out in camp,” the coach said.

A pair of sophomore receivers, Elijah Porter and Andre Mottas, 6-foot-3 and 6-1, respectively, are primed to up their production and make their presence felt downfield. “They’re similar players who run well, have good size and excellent hands,” Oswald said.

The offensive line is one of the Lions’ top position groups and can go eight deep according to Oswald. Sophomore Kenroy Hutchinson anchors the unit at center, with sophomore Jaeden Davis-Samuels of Hempstead and freshman Jayden Jagmohan other confirmed starters

On the defensive side, sophomore linebacker Ja’quevios Sam comes off a 49-tackle campaign, sophomore cornerback Dwayne Shulters picked off 2 passes and broke up 6, and could form a shutdown tandem with Abdul Somo.

On special teams, kicker Igor Rzasa and punter Danny Iobo will take care of the legwork.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald photos
Caleb

Water quality in Western Bays improves

The water quality in Hempstead’s Western Bays continues to show progressive improvement, according to a report presented Aug. 15 by officials from the Long Island Regional Planning Council, the Town of Hempstead, and Hofstra University’s National Center for Suburban Studies.

The report, shown at a briefing held at the Town of Hempstead Marine Laboratory, revealed significant decreases in nitrogen, ammonia, and other harmful pollutants that have historically degraded the water and damaged local coastal wetlands.

“Hempstead Bay and its major tributaries, known as the Western Bays, help drive a multi-billion-dollar economy,” said Richard Guardino, executive director of the LIRPC. “It’s fueled by recreation, bathing, boating, fishing, and seafood harvesting. The Western Bays contribute greatly to the quality of life we enjoy right here in the Town of Hempstead, and it’s one of the most beautiful coastal areas in all of the nation.”

Despite the promising results, officials cautioned that work remains to fully restore the bays’ health. They emphasized that multi-level efforts to reduce nitrogen pollution in the waterways should remain a top priority.

Excess nitrogen is recognized as the

An Aug. 15 briefing at the Town of Hempstead Marine Laboratory illustrated a significant decrease in nitrogen pollution in Long Island waters.

leading cause of water quality deterioration in the region, contributing to toxic algal blooms, low oxygen, fish kills, and the destruction of vital marine habitats. It also poses a significant risk to Long Island’s drinking water, because groundwater serves as the island’s source of freshwater.

The Hempstead Bay Water Quality Monitoring Project, initially launched in the 1980s and revived in 2019 under the Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan, has been key in addressing water quality issues in the area. The project collects

water samples from various locations in the bays and inland areas to measure levels of nitrogen, ammonia, and other pollutants.

“This is an investment in the environment. This is an investment in the economy,” Councilman Chris Schneider said. “It’s an investment in our safety, and the results we’re seeing, the fruits of the results of that investment, they are terrific, and we’re going to continue it.”

Testing is conducted using a network of 40 surface water stations located

across the Western Bays. These stations help track pollutant levels in the water. In addition, three continuous monitoring sites provide real-time data, and 20 deep-water locations allow researchers to assess conditions below the surface. There are also 12 inland sites to monitor nitrogen deposits from atmospheric conditions and rainwater.

“We’ve seen that the water is becoming cleaner. We’ve seen lately less nitrogen in the water,” Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin said. “And it’s through all these combinations — people committed to making sure that the future is bright for their children, programs we run through the town — but it’s through the ability now to test it here that’s going to be most beneficial, and we are so grateful to have this.”

Hofstra Professor Steve Raciti presented data comparing water quality from 1980 to 1985, which showed high levels of nitrate marked in red on the charts, to the period from 2020 to 2023, when the water had largely transitioned to blue, indicating much lower nitrate levels. Areas near wastewater-treatment plants showed the most significant improvements.

With an additional $5 million invested by the state in the Long Island Nitrogen Action plan since 2015, the program aims to continue reducing nitrogen levels across the Island, beyond just runoff and treatment plant discharges.

Angelina Zingariello/Herald

True success throughout life starts with a plan. Implement that strategy with your student early on and results are sure to follow. It’s important to establish some rules from the beginning to follow through the entire year, this will help reduce anxiety and replace it with a sense of calm. Focus on creating good habits rather than only grades, if you do that the grades will happen.

Help your child get organized. Instead of nagging, show him how being organized will pay dividends in life. Let him experience the ease of being able to find things, the joy of being on time, and the sense of control that organization will bring.

Plan ahead so mornings go smoothly. There is an old saying, “well begun is half done,” and it certainly is true about getting off to school. Start your planning the night before by making sure your child gets enough rest. A slightly earlier bedtime may make a big difference to your child’s ability to function in the morning. Have him lay out his clothes before he goes to bed, and put everything else he needs for school in his backpack. It’s a good idea to have him put the backpack right on top of his shoes, so he can’t leave the house without it.

Help your child keep up with his work; avoid procrastination. Share a tip from time-management experts: break tasks into manageable parts, and do one at a time until the job is finished.

Steps to success

That involves getting a handle on homework. Provide a place for your child to do his homework, and make sure he has the necessary supplies for being organized. Keep things like pencils, paper, ruler and colored markers all together in a pencil box or shoe box to save time looking around when doing homework.

Set a time to do homework. Some families like to do homework right after school, while others prefer doing it after dinner. Whatever you decide, find one that works

for everyone, then stick to it as often as possible. If the child has no homework, read! Try some offbeat ways to encourage your child to read. Use a current film as a starting point to encourage your child to dip into the book it is based on. Or help your child to write a letter to the author of a favorite book. (Send it to the publisher most authors are good about replying to letters from children.) Do all you can to foster your child’s love of reading. Video games are fun, but they don’t develop vocabulary

and language skills the way reading does.

Take a critical look at your child’s extra-curricular activities. Look especially hard at team sports, which require long hours of practice. Is your child overscheduled, trying to do far more than a child should do at this age? If so, you may have to consider cutting back to leave more time and energy for learning.

Remember the power of praise. Let it work its magic to motivate your child. Displaying a child’s best work is a form of praise. Add a special touch to an especially good paper by having it laminated. You can do it yourself with clear contact paper.

Celebrate your child’s successes, no matter how small. Learning is not always easy for children, and sometimes their progress may be measured in very small steps. When your child does master a new skill, rejoice together.

Save time for fun. Play restores the body and stimulates brain connections, which makes learning easier in school. After all, there’s more to life than long division.

Photo: Organization is one of the key factors to doing well in school. In fact, disorganization can lead to lower grades, increased frustration and stress, and even lower self-esteem. Students who have better organization habits often perform better on assignments, get more done, and have more free time than their disorganized peers.

NCJW equips students at Atkinson in FP

Toothpaste, socks and underwear are not always the first things that come to mind when getting ready for a new academic year.

National Council for Jewish Women Peninsula Section thought of it all for their ninth annual Back 2 School Store.

On Aug. 9 and 11, 600 elementary age children, some with physical disabilities, filled the halls of Caroline G. Atkinson School in Freeport to “shop” the department store style event.

Each child, from pre-qualified households- determined by social service agencies, religious and community organizations- received a complete new outfit including pants, a shirt, shoes and socks, along with books, gloves, hygienic care items, a hat, pajamas, school supplies, stuffed animals, underwear and a winter jacket.

At the Friday session, Hope Coleman, director of the event and Susan Fox, assistant director, presented Nicole Diaks, president of AMC Transfer in Valley Stream, with a plaque, thanking her for her service, transporting the shop’s materials, with her commercial moving business for nine years.

Donations, fundraising and grants sought out by NCJW Peninsula section, made the weekend possible, at no cost to families or agencies.

Over 150 volunteers from NCJW Peninsula Section and Freeport High School were trained, some of which were personal shoppers, escorting the students for the individualized shopping experience.

Michael Coleman volunteered at the event, checking students in.

“I was a public defender my whole life, that’s what I did for a living, public defending was an emotional job, but there’s nothing as emotional as this thing,” Michael said of the Back 2 School Store.

To get involved email office@ncjwpeninsula.org.

Hope Coleman, director of the Back 2 School Store and Susan Fox, assistant director, ran operations of the two-day National Council for Jewish Women Peninsula Section event. Volunteers were also recruited from Freeport High School.

George Herrera, right, a Back 2 School Store shopper, filled his bag at Atkinson with the help of volunteer, Kelli Delucia.
Maureen Lennon/Herald Photos
Alexandra Backlin, a Back 2 School Store volunteer, manned the shoe section of the event, guiding students to their sizes and helping to select colors.
Allie Levitt, a volunteer for the ninth annual Back 2 School Store, helped the elementary school ‘shoppers’ pick out stuffed animals.

The pervasive smell of the ‘devil’s lettuce’

As restrictions loosen on the

The smell of marijuana has sparked division across New York state ever since its legalization under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act on March 31, 2021. While some residents celebrate the change, others express frustration over the strong odor infiltrating public spaces.

According to the New York State Cannabis website, it is legal to smoke or vape cannabis in most areas where tobacco use is permitted, such as private homes or backyards. However, landlords can still ban smoking — both tobacco and marijuana — in apartment buildings. Cannabis consumption is prohibited in motor vehicles, hookah and cigar bars, businesses, restaurants including patios, federal property including public housing, and most public and state parks as well as beaches.

Even with cannabis legalized across the state, the Town of Hempstead has taken measures to restrict its availability. Supervisor Don Clavin and the Town Board unanimously voted to opt out of marijuana sales on Dec. 8, 2021, preventing businesses from selling it within the town’s borders.

This decision is in line with the state’s Cannabis Law, specifically Section 131, which allows towns, cities, and villages to prohibit cannabis businesses if they passed a local law on or before the later of Dec. 31, 2021, or nine months after the effective date of the section.

Medical marijuana dispensaries can only operate in specific zoning districts, and they must be in buildings with active medical offices and receive authorization from the State Department of Health.

No more than two medical dispensaries are allowed in the town at any time. They cannot be within 1,000 feet of schools, child day-care centers, parks, or places of worship, and must be at least 500 feet from residential areas, with some exceptions. They must operate between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., and consumption or use of marijuana on-site is prohibited. People under 18 are not allowed on the premises unless they are patients or accompanied by a guardian.

The Town of Oyster Bay and the City of Long Beach also opted out of permitting cannabis retail dispensaries and on-site consumption sites in December 2021.

Despite these laws and restrictions, the smell of marijuana still seeps into prohibited areas, demonstrating the ongoing difficulty in controlling its impact on public spaces.

Avita John, a 24-year-old from Wantagh, has faced significant challenges due to her severe asthma, which is exacerbated by marijuana smoke.

“Smell is something that could trigger anything for me, but especially with, like, weed, since it’s a type of, like, smoking and vaping, you could say, that

use of marijuana, its odor seems to be wafting almost everywhere

triggers my asthmatic tendencies more,” John said. “And what happens is that when I smell it, I just want to puke. My lungs, everything, my throat just closes up. So, it’s very hard for me to breathe.”

The problem is particularly evident in her work environment, where customers are often under the influence of marijuana. The presence of smoke in the air makes it difficult for her to interact with them, and exacerbates her health struggles.

In addition to the problems caused by the smell of marijuana, John highlighted broader concerns that affect lung health, suggesting that while laws and designated smoking areas are designed to reduce health risks, they may not fully address the broader challenges of environmental pollution and secondhand smoke.

“I don’t think legislation or governments could do anything, per se, because

they will have to interview us, or they’ll have a form for the insurance company to fill out saying that we’re asthmatic, we have lung issues, and we can’t be around smokers,” she said. “We can’t be around air pollution. But then, there’s air pollution everywhere. We don’t have clean air technically. I would say maybe they could help with our medication causes or give us some monetary incentive to help us with our health care, because they can’t provide a safe space for us. They already have spaces designated for smokers, but there are a lot of people who don’t abide by that.”

The potential problems linked to the smell of marijuana aren’t just limited to health concerns. Alison Camardella, president of the North Shore Coalition Against Substance Abuse, emphasized that the risk of normalizing marijuana smoking can risk the normalization of its use by young people.

“The dramatic increase in marijuana

smells in our parks, at our beaches and even, you know, sporting events normalizes the use of drugs for our kids, and that’s our concern,” Camardella said. “So regularly seeing and smelling it gives our kids the wrong message that this is safe and that this is OK and that it’s socially acceptable.”

CASA is a nonprofit that focuses on reducing the abuse of drugs, alcohol and tobacco among students in the North Shore School District. Camardella emphasized that while the dangers of alcohol and tobacco are well-publicized and acknowledged, the potential risks of marijuana abuse by young people are often underreported and brushed aside.

“The more that they see adults using it, the more they’re at risk of using it at a younger age,” Camardella continued. “There is no question that marijuana use in the teen years is not only bad for their developing brains, but it also increases their risk of addiction later in life.”

Not everyone agrees that this is a public issue however. Anthony G., a construction worker who buys marijuana products from the dispensary Strain Stars in Farmingdale and requested anonymity, argued that smoking marijuana in public is legal. Furthermore, he made a contrast between the smoking of cigarettes in public versus smoking marijuana.

“I’m not breaking any laws — I’m not smoking in people’s faces,” he said. “It feels like a double standard, because people are still smoking cigarettes everywhere.”

As marijuana continues to become more accessible and its smell spreads through public areas, finding solutions to maintain comfort and well-being for everyone in these spaces is becoming increasingly important.

Photos courtesy Metro Creative Connection
Some residents and activists have suggested that the normalization of marijuana use has made it seem safer to children.
The use and sale of marijuana was legalized in New York state following the passage of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act in 2021.

Striking out Alzheimer’s, one step at a time

Community members in Nassau County are invited to lace up their walking shoes and join the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America for it annual Alzheimer’s Walk in the Park on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Eisenhower Park. Event organizers promise a morning of community spirit, with New York baseball icon Dwight Gooden participating in the opening ceremonies, signing autographs, and taking photos with walkers.

The walk, held at Field 6 of Eisenhower Park, is a free event open to all, though participants are encouraged to raise funds either individually or as part of a team. Funds raised through the walk will support AFA’s programs and services for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and contribute to research for better treatments and a cure. To get involved, walkers can sign up and start fundraising through the walk website at ALZfdn.org/walk.

Charles Fuschillo, the foundation’s president and chief executive, highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “In the fight against Alzheimer’s, each step counts, which is why we are encouraging everyone to walk with us on Sept. 28.

“The funds and awareness raised will make a tremendous difference for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses in their time of need,” he said. “We are grateful to Dwight Gooden for serving as our honorary Alzheimer’s Ambassador for the event and invite everyone to help us strikeout Alzheimer’s.”

Gooden, a former Cy Young Award winner and World Series champion with the Mets and Yankees, also expressed his enthusiasm for the event.

“When I was invited to be an ambassador for this walk, I immediately said yes because I know about the impact that Alzheimer’s disease has on many families,” he said. “I am excited to help spread awareness and be a part of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Walk to raise funds to help families impacted by this disease and to fund research for a cure.”

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support, services, and education to individuals, families, and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The foundation funds research for better treatment and a cure and offers services such as a National Toll-Free Helpline, caregiver support groups, educational programs, and more.

Walk participants who fundraise at least $100 will have the opportunity to meet Gooden and receive an autographed baseball. Those raising $250 or more will also enjoy a professional photo opportunity with the baseball legend. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals

interested in supporting the cause. Alzheimer’s disease remains a pressing public health issue, with over 6.9 million Americans currently living with the disease — a number expected to more than double by 2060.

410,000 residents, including an estimated 60,000 Long Islanders, are affected.

ister, fundraise, or sponsor, visit www. alzfdn.org/walk.

The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale, New

STANLEY M. BERGMAN CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND CEO HENRY SCHEIN

SPECIAL AWARDS DISTINGUISHED VISIONARY

STANLEY M. BERGMAN Chairman of the Board and CEO Henry Schein

ORGANIZATIONS OF EXCELLENCE

LONG ISLAND SELECT HEALTHCARE

PARKER JEWISH INSTITUTE FOR HEALTH CARE AND REHABILITATION BRIGHTVIEW SENIOR LIVING

EXCELLENCE IN NURSING ADVOCACY

NEW YORK STATE NURSE’S ASSOCIATION (NYSNA)

CN GUIDANCE COUNSELING & SERVICES

MICHELLE BALLAN, PhD

Professor and Associate Dean for Research, School of Social Welfare Professor, Renaissance School of Medicine Stony Brook University Health Services

KIMON BEKELIS, MD Director

Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island

MICHAEL BROWN CEO Fellow Health Partners

JORDAN BRODSKY, MD Medical Doctor & Rheumatologist Rheumatology Consultants

ALANNA M. CARCICH, MBA

Senior Director, Joints, Spine & Orthobiologics Northwell Health Orthopedics

CATHERINE CANADEO Founder & CEO Catherine Candeo Health & Wellness Corp

NICOLE CHRISTENSEN Founder & CEO Award-Winning Patient Advocate & Care Coordinator Care Answered

TODD J. COHEN, MD Chief of Cardiology, Director of Medical Device Innovation New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

TORI COHEN

Executive Director Long Island Alzheimer's & Dementia Center

CAROLYNN EIPEL

Director of Home Care Services CareFirst Home Solutions

HEIDI FELIX Vice President of Sales LifeVac

NICK FITTERMAN, MD, MACP Executive Director Huntington Hospital Northwell Health

MARY GMITEREK-APAT, D.C. Chiropractor Dr. Mary's Chiropractic and Wellness Center

DOUG GOLUB President Data Potato

AARON GROTAS, MD Board-Certified Urologist PRINE Health

LORI GOOSTONE, DHEd., RN Professor, Department of Nursing Farmingdale State College

RENEE HASTICK-MOTES, MPA Senior Vice President/ Chief External Affairs Officer & President St. John's ICARE Foundation at Episcopal Health Services

ROBYN JOSEPH, MD Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery / Founder Northern Ankle Foot Associates

FELICIA KASOW Director of Marketing & Operations PURE Mammography

NANCY C. LEGHART Executive Director St. John's Episcopal Health Services

BRIAN MAYRSOHN, MD CMO & Owner Maywell Health

PARUL DUA MAKKAR, DDS Owner PDM Family Dental

TINA MORENO Vice President of WORC Force Capital Campaign Life's WORC

DENIS NANKERVIS, DO, FACS, FACOS Trauma Medical Director/Assistant Professor of Surgery at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Peconic Bay Medical Center Northwell Health

MEG C. RYAN, ESQ. Interim CEO & President Chief Legal Officer NHCC Nassau University Medical Center

DEAN RISKIN Co-Founder & CEO Hair We Share

MELISSA SCHACHTER, MS, CCC-SLP, TSSLD Speech Language-Pathologist & Director The Speech Language Place

LISA STERN AVP of Senior & Adult Services Family & Children's Association

AMYEE ST. PIERRE Vice President, Senior Consultant, Health & Performance HUB International

JOSEPH VERDIRAME Manging Partner & CEO Alliance Home Care

US! @RichnerLIVEevents

Herald file
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Walk in the Park will take place on Sept. 28

STEPPING OUT

Forever in tune with the ‘World’s Greatest Entertainer’

AL JOLSON

tribute celebrates 25 years

Disco fever

Boogie along with Disco Unlimited at Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. When Disco Unlimited hits the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will — when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins. Capturing a time in music that to this day has not been matched, the exhilarating band will draw you in with their powerful vocals, tight harmonies and dance grooves all coupled with a synchronized stage and light show that creates an unforgettable concert experience. Close your eyes and you will truly believe you are listening to the original artists. Hear the best of Tavares, France Jolie, The Trammps, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Yvonne Elliman, Anita Ward, Deney Terrio, George McCrae, Bonnie Pointer, Melba Moore, Maxine Nightingale, Carol Douglas, and so much more. This group of unique musicians love and live this era of music. As always, bring seating.

Saturday, Aug. 24, 7-9 p.m. For information, visit NassauCcountyNY. gov/parks.

Al Jolson was considered the “Greatest Entertainer” of his day, so it is no surprise that the annual Long Island Jolson Festival

is celebrating 25 years next month, Sept. 7.

The unique and lively remembrance of the icon, who was a pioneer in many genres in the 1920s — including music, film (“The Jazz Singer”) and theater (“Hold on to Your Hats”) — will be filled with nostalgia, the musical stylings of beloved Jolson entertainer Tony Babino and by “Mr. Tin Pan Alley,” Richard Halpern, along with many memorable surprises.

The festival, which returns to Lambrou’s Catering Hall in Island Park, will also treat guests to comedic performances, an auction and the camaraderie of being in a space shared with like-minded Jolson enthusiasts. Jan Hernstat, the International Al Jolson Society’s longtime president, says that fans travel to Long Island for this special experience from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and even Virginia.

“Jolson was the biggest star of the ‘20s, ‘30s and much of the ‘40s,” says Hernstat. “The problem is people don’t remember him anymore because there’s no outlet for his work. He was a star before radio, television and talking movies. There was no internet, and yet people all over the world knew who he was! The Al Jolson Festival is our way of letting people know the kind of talent that he was, and the kind of things that he did. There’s still a lot of people who want to come and celebrate him.”

Hernstat has been organizing the event since its inception. “It’s amazing, and we’ve had a lot of different people join us over the years. Soupy Sales, Margaret Whiting, Sheldon Harnick,” he recalls.

• Sept. 7, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Tickets are $49.95, which includes entertainment and meals; tickets for show only are $29.95

• Information and tickets available at Jolson.org or call Jan Hernstat at (516) 678-3524.

• Lambrou’s Catering Hall, 4073 Austin Blvd., Island Park

To everyone’s delight, mainstay Babbino — aka “The Heart of Al Jolson” — is always the grand finale.

“I’ve had the great honor of being a part of it all these years,” says Babino as he considers his history with the festival. “It’s a great tribute to one of the greatest entertainers, and it’s something special to me because I’ve been paying tribute to Jolson my entire life. To be able to do it continually for the people who appreciate it, it’s really an amazing thing for me to experience.”

Hernstat wanted to focus on comedy this year. He’s brought in impressionists taking on Groucho Marx, Rodney Dangerfield and Laurel & Hardy.

“We’re going to recreate a radio skit that was done on ‘Kraft Music Hall’ between Jolson and Groucho,” Hernstat says. “We have an actual script!”

And, of course, there’s memorabilia available for sale, as always. This year’s selection includes items from a long time collector who passed.

“There are many things you couldn’t get otherwise. Between the auction and the sale, there’s going to be an awful lot of things Jolson fans can take advantage of,” Hernstat adds.

“It’s important to keep Jolson’s legacy alive for so many reasons, besides his one-of-a-kind, unique voice that’s easily recognizable,” Babino says.”He came to the U.S. as a little kid and went on to live the American dream. He did it all on his own. He became the biggest star in the country — on Broadway and then in the movies. At a time when it was very difficult to get to New York from other places, Jolson came up with the idea to take a full Broadway show on the road. That became the forerunner of the touring companies we have today. He was the first guy to go overseas and sing for the troops in World War II. He accomplished all these things [and many more] and he was kind of a forefather of modern show business.”

Participating yearly is truly a labor of love for the vocalist.

“We get such joy out of making it fun and interesting, performing some of the great and familiar music that people still love. We make a great day of it,” Babino says.

Hernstat remains intent on keeping Jolson’s legacy front and center in the public eye.

“If you are a lover of old time nostalgic stars of the past, you should not miss this,” he says with enthusiasm. “You’re going to want to come back again and again. We hope to continue to do this year after year, but don’t miss this one. It’s one for the ages!”

‘Good

times never seemed so good’

Neil Diamond is certainly forever — as honored by the musicians who perform as Neil Forever. The 14-piece band delivers an authentic, exciting and joyful concert. Performing Diamond’s music is as much about heart and soul as it is talent; it’s a celebration of the music and the man who created it. Founder David Jacobson (lead vocals/guitar), has a great passion for Diamond’s music and legacy. Jacobson, along with his son and music director Dylan Jacobson and drummer John Cardoso began their journey only recently, in January of 2023. The band is already forging an exciting path, as discovered by excited and passionate fans of all ages. Audiences are thrilled by the authentic renditions of classic Neil Diamond hits, especially“Sweet Caroline,” of course.

Saturday, Aug. 24, 8 p.m. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY. com.

Singer Tony B is the featured performer, yearly, acclaimed for his renditions of Jolson’s standards.
Photos courtesy Jan Hernstat Al Jolson with his third wife dancer/actress Ruby Keeler.

THE Your Neighborhood

Dweezil zappa

Guitarist Dweezil Zappa brings the aptly named “Rox-Postrophy” Tour to the Paramount stage, Friday, Aug. 30, 8 p.m. Zappa is celebrating two of his father Frank Zappa’s landmark albums, “Roxy & Elsewhere” and “Apostrophe.”

The tour commemorates the 50th Anniversary of both albums and Zappa has curated a setlist highlighting fan-favorite tracks from each record, replete with unique hybrid arrangements.

“The songs you think you know, may just end up surprising you with parts you’ve never heard before” according to Zappa. A Grammy-winning musician, Zappa has left an indelible mark on the music industry with over 2,000 concerts performed worldwide.

Known for his masterful performances and deep connection to his father’s music, he returning to concert stages for the first time since the 2020 Hot Ratz Live! Tour, continuing to guide fans through the thrilling and sophisticated world of his father’s music. His virtuosity on the guitar is matched only by his prolific compositional skills, which have generated numerous original works spanning multiple albums including “Confessions of Deprived Youth” (1991) and “Via Zammata” (2015). His music effortlessly traverses genres, seamlessly weaving together elements of rock, fusion, and experimental sounds, all while maintaining a signature style that is unmistakably his own. In addition to his solo work, Zappa has collaborated with an impressively varied roster of artists, including Edward Van Halen, Deep Purple, Lisa Loeb, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, and Steve Vai, among others. $89, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49. 50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Bird walk

See some birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for the next in its series of bird walks, at Mill Pond Park in Wantagh, Sunday, Aug. 25, starting at 9 a.m. The group meets at the gazebo. The park is on the north side of Merrick Road, four blocks west of the Wantagh State Parkway.

Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit SSAudubon.org.

Art talk

Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum, Thursday, Sept. 5, 1 p.m. She’ll discuss the current exhibition, “Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the in-depth program and also participate in a guided exhibition tour following the lecture. No registration required, but limited seating. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Rockin’ Labor Day

Rock on at Point Lookout for a rousing Labor Day weekend celebration, at Town Park Point Lookout, with Mike DelGuidice, Saturday, Aug. 31, 8 p.m. The free concert, hosted by the Town of Hempstead, concludes with a fireworks show.

DelGuidice, known for his appearances with Billy Joel, captivates audiences all over with his renditions of the Joel hits, along with his own tunes. 1300 Lido Blvd. in Point Lookout.. Visit toh.li for more.

Keeping up with the village

The next meeting of the Village of Freeport Board of Trustees takes place on Monday, Aug. 26, at 5:30 p.m. at Village Hall. 46 N. Ocean Ave.

Labor Day

All village offices and schools will be closed in observance of Labor Day.

Movie Night

Enjoy a film outdoors on Eisenhower Park’s big screen, at the closing screening of the season, Wednesday, Aug. 28, dusk, at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. See “Wonka,” the prequel based on the Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” It tells the story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.

Starring Timothée Chalamet in the title role, the big screen spectacle introduces audiences to a young Willy Wonka, chockfull of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time. Eisenhower Park, Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.

Social Work Summer Program

Social work student Martina Stephenson is at Freeport Memorial Library, Tuesday Aug. 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., to assist with social services, housing, unemployment applications, and more. For more information contact Stephenson via email at SocialWorkIntern@ FreeportLibrary.info or call the reception desk at (516) 3793274. 144 West Merrick Road.

Caregiver technology workshop

Embracing technology can greatly simplify caregiving responsibilities. Find out about the gadgets and tools available to enhance the care you provide to your loved ones while also ensuring your own well-being, Friday, Aug. 26, 1 p.m., at Freeport Memorial Library. E these useful technologies and discover how they can improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one. Registration required. 144 W Merrick Road. Register at FreeportLibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274.

Walking Wednesdays!

Participate in a 45-minute walk with pace set by group, beginning at Freeport Memorial Library, Wednesday, Aug. 21, 10:30-11:45 a.m All fitness levels welcome. Led by Maryellen Cantanno. Stay in tune with your body while walking and meeting people. Contact for more information, or ask@ freeportlibrary.info. Freeport Memorial Library. 144 W Merrick Rd, Freeport. More information available at FreeportLibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274.

Having an event?

Medicaid Enrollment Assistance

Facilitators from the NassauSuffolk Hospital Council visit Freeport Memorial Library, Wednesday, Aug. 28, 3-7 p.m. Elderly, blind and disabled individuals can receive assistance enrolling in programs dealing with Medicaid, Medicaid BuyIn for Working People with Disabilities, Medicaid spenddown, Medicaid Savings Program and more. 144 W Merrick Rd. For more information, call Marilyn Pignataro at (516) 379-3274 or visit freeportlibrary.info

Summer concert series

Get your lawn chairs and blankets out for a free outdoor summer concert featuring Acoustic Vibes, Thursday, Aug. 29, 7-8:30 p.m., on the Nautical Mile. Enjoy this musical performance by local artists and celebrate the arts by bringing people together. 379 Woodcleft Ave.

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media. It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Pet Adoption Program

Adopt your ‘fur-ever’ friend this summer at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. Now through Sept. 1, all pet adoption fees are waived and include free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. There is a $10 license fee for dogs. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cats online at HempsteadNY.gov or on the shelter’s Facebook page at Hempstead Town Animal Shelter. For more information, contact (516) 785-5220. 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh.

In concert

Don’t miss the Soul Jam Revue as they bring the funk to the Nautical Mile, Monday, Sept. 2, from 6-10 p.m. at Waterview. To RSVP email TheSoulJamRevue@gmail.com. 395 Woodcleft Ave.

Welcome back to school With the summer coming to a close, it means its time for kids and teachers to return to the classroom. School is officially back in session starting Tuesday, Sept. 3.

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN

Mount Sinai South Nassau, the closest hospital for Freeport residents, has received a $1 million donation from the Betty Ajces Trust to enhance cancer patient clinical trials and research on Long Island. This marks the second significant contribution from the Trust, following a $200,000 donation last August that established the Leon and Betty Ajces Memorial Fund to support the hospital’s cancer research and prevention efforts.

“This generous gift will allow us to offer patients access to cutting-edge cancer therapies, technologies, and treatment protocols through clinical trials, right here on Long Island,” said Adhi Sharma, president of Mount Sinai South Nassau. “Patients will no longer need to travel to New York City for these opportunities.”

As part of the Mount Sinai Health System’s National Clinical Trial Network, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Department of Clinical Research plays a crucial role in leading clinical trials to establish new standards of care, test innovative treatment approaches, and validate new human genome biomarkers.

“We are pleased to support Mount Sinai South Nassau in expanding access to the latest cancer treatments on Long Island,” said Alan Weiner, trustee of the Betty Ajces Trust and a longtime friend of the Ajces family.”

The department, based at the Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center in Valley Stream, collaborates closely with The Tisch Cancer Institute in Manhattan, a National Cancer Institute-designated center known for its pioneering cancer research. The Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center treats approximately 2,500 patients annually and is equipped with advanced technologies for cancer treatment. Through its partnership

with the Mount Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai South Nassau offers a range of innovative clinical trials and access to leading oncologists specializing in both common and rare cancers. The $1 million donation will help Mount Sinai South Nassau extend access to clinical trials already underway at The Tisch Cancer Institute.

“This gift will allow us to expand our support for these trials and increase access for patients who prefer not to travel to New York City,” said Rajiv Datta, chair of the department of surgery and director of the Feil Cancer Center.

The hospital’s protocol review committee, comprising specialists and support services, ensures that all clinical trials align with the National Cancer Institute’s standards and the hospital’s mission. The Institutional Review Board then provides regulatory oversight to safeguard patients participating in these trials. Currently, Mount Sinai South Nassau has patients enrolled in breast and lung cancer clinical trials.

Betty Ajces, born in Jackson Heights, Queens, in 1929, had a deep connection to the arts, performing with an “all-girl” jazz trio in the late 1940s and 1950s, and serving as Chair of the Board of the Rockaway-Five Towns Orchestra. She passed away in August 2022 at the age of 93. Her husband, Leon Ajces, was a Ukrainian-born immigrant and World War II veteran who later became a successful businessman in the United States.

“This gift will significantly enhance our ability to provide cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials to our Long Island patients,” said Karyn Goodman, associate director of clinical research at The Tisch Cancer Institute.

–Kepherd Daniel

Herald file photo
This marks the second significant contribution from the Betty Ajces Trust, following a $200,000 donation last August.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Indenture Trustee for the registered holders of IMH Assets Corp., Collateralized AssetBacked Bonds, Series 2005-3, Plaintiff AGAINST Orazio J. Petito; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 19, 2018, and Amended February 2, 2022, and Amended October 4, 2022, and Amended June 25, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 4, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 73 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove, NY 11542. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Glen Cove, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 31. Block 47 Lot 417. Approximate amount of judgment $1,199,324.65 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 006906/2015. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

David S. Dikman, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: July 18, 2024 81586 148181

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST DIANA J. BARNES A/K/A DIANA CARTER A/K/A DIANA CARTER; FARAJI BODDIE; Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 7, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, ‘Rain or Shine’ on September 5, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 39 Lessing Place, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New

York, Section: 55 Block: 377 Lots: 1267, 1268 and 1269. Approximate amount of judgment $331,470.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #011584/2007. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov /Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Janine T. Lynam, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street Rochester, NY 14614 NSRNC625 81287 148296

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST INC., ASSETBACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AMC1, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, -againstFRANKI JOSEPH, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 2, 2024, wherein CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST INC., ASSETBACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AMC1, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and FRANKI JOSEPH, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 17, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 100 WILSON PLACE, VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 54-59-1. ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611202/2019. Brian J. Davis, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in

accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 148454

Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC, -againstRALPH MAISONNEUVE, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on December 24, 2018, wherein OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC is the Plaintiff and RALPH MAISONNEUVE, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 17, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 182 EVANS AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 55-101-39.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 010553/2014. Irene V. Villacci, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 148456

To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Specialized Loan Servicing LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Nora Salvagni, Individually and as Administratrix of the Estate of Daniel Salvagni, Sr a/k/a Daniel H. Salvagni a/k/a Daniel Salvagni; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 26, 2024, and Amended June 27, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 587 Miller Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hemstead, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 62 Block 179 Lots 3 & 444. Approximate amount of judgment $892,977.81 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 011471/2012. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Brian Davis, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: July 29, 2024

For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 148458

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. LOAN FUNDER LLC, SERIES 5241, Pltf. vs LEGACY HOMES REALTY. LTD., et al, Defts. Index #611906/20. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated March 11, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side fronts steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on September 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., prem. k/a 32 Allers Blvd., Roosevelt, NY a/k/a Section 55, Block 330, Lots 233 & 234. Approx. amt. of judgment is $376,482.84 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. BRIAN DAVIS, Referee. DEUTSCH & SCHNEIDER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf. 79-37 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, NY. File No. LF-173- #101712 148516

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-EMX1, Plaintiff, v. JUAN APOLINARIO, ET AL, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on March 25, 2019, I, Jeffrey Fox, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on September 26, 2024 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 209 Nassau Avenue Freeport, NY 11520 SBL No.: 62-164-382, 383, 384 & 385 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, Count of Nassau, State of New York.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 006348/2014 in the amount of $531,629.00 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 148549

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC, Plaintiff, vs. ROSE BROWN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 6, 2022 and an Order duly entered on May 22, 2023, 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 September 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 79 Mount Joy Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain

plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 398 and Lots 332-334. Approximate amount of judgment is $312,021.34 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609848/2019. Mark Ricciardi, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 148557

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff, -vs- Any unknown heirs to the Estate of CARRIE LEWIS A/K/A CARRIE LEWIS-BRYANT A/K/A CARRIE E. LEWISBRYANT, next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest, as well as the respective heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff;; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; EDNA ROBINSON AS PROPOSED ADMINISTRATRIX TO THE ESTATE OF CARRIE LEWIS A/K/A CARRIE LEWISBRYANT A/K/A CARRIE E. LEWIS-BRYANT AND INDIVIDUALLY; TIMOTHY LEWIS; MARSHALL LEWIS; ALICIA CAYNE; MONIQUE CAYNE THOMPSON; JOSEPH THOMPSON; MAURICE CAYNE; STATE OF NEW YORK CIVIL RECOVERIES BUREAU; Defendants.

Filed: 9/13/2023 Index No.: 614806/2023 SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 28 Cumberland Avenue Roosevelt, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11575 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service

where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is for the foreclosure of: Mortgage bearing the date of August 19, 1992, executed by Eddie Bryant and Carrie Lewis to Continental Capital Corp. to secure the sum of $120,200.00, and interest, and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Nassau County on December 21, 1992 in Book: 14555, Page: 743. That Continental Capital Corp. duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to Chemical Bank c/o Chemical Mortgage Company by Assignment dated August 19, 1992 and recorded on March 2, 1993 in the Office of the Clerk of Nassau County in Book: 14967, Page: 139. That Chemical Bank duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to Chemical Mortgage Company by Assignment dated September 1, 1992 and recorded on November 30, 1993 in the Office of the Clerk of Nassau County in Book: 15733, Page: 16. That Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation f/k/a Chemical Residential Mortgage Corporation f/k/a Manufacturers Hanover Servicing, Inc. duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to MidFirst Bank by Assignment dated September 1, 1998 and recorded on March 1, 1999 in the Office of the Clerk of Nassau County in Book: 19321, Page: 271. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the Mortgaged Premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the County in which the Mortgaged Premises is situated. Section: 55 Block:307 Lot:1381 & 1382 SCHEDULE A DESCRIPTION OF MORTGAGED PREMISES

ALL those certain lots, pieces or parcels of land, situate, lying and being at Roosevelt, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as and by lots 1361 and 1382 on a certain map entitled, “Map of Freeport Heights, comprising 1540 lots at Freeport, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, owned by Long Island

Realty Co., New York City, surveyed February 1906 by Robert Kurz, Civil Engineer and Surveyor, Jamaica, New York”, and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 23, 1906 as Map No. 51, New No. 374 and which said lots are more particularly bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Southerly side of Cumberland Avenue distant 329.50 feet Easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Southerly aide of Cumberland Avenue with the Easterly side of Babylon Turnpike (Hempstead Boulevard); RUNNING THENCE Easterly and along the Southerly side of Cumberland Avenue 50 feet; THENCE Southerly and at right angles to Cumberland Avenue 100 feet; THENCE Westerly and parallel with Cumberland Avenue 50 feet; THENCE running Northerly and again at right angles to Cumberland Avenue 100 feet to the southerly side of Cumberland Avenue, the point or place of beginning. Premises: 28 Cumberland Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575 Tax Parcel ID No.: Section: 55 Block: 307 Lot: 1381, 1382

DATED:__________

Rochester, New York

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the Mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your Mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. 148484 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR LEHMAN MORTGAGE TRUST MORTGAGE PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-2, Plaintiff AGAINST LATCHMIN BANKS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 25, 2019, I, the undersigned

CRImE waTCh

DwI aRRESTS

On Aug. 10, another DWI arrest occurred when Freeport Police stopped a vehicle for a traffic infraction, and the driver was found to be intoxicated.

On Aug. 18, a driver was arrested by Freeport Police after being stopped for a traffic violation and found to be operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

LaRCENy

On Aug. 9, a larceny arrest occurred when Freeport Police apprehended a person for stealing property from a local business.

On Aug. 12, a theft was reported at a local motel where items were stolen from a guest’s room while they were showering.

On Aug. 14, Freeport Police arrested a person for theft after an investigation revealed that the individual removed property from a local business without authorization.

FRauD

On Aug. 14, Freeport Police arrested a person found in possession of a fraudulent Connecticut driver’s license during a traffic stop.

CRImINaL mISChIEF

On Aug. 7, during a traffic stop, Freeport Police arrested someone for a traffic infraction who was also found in possession of a loaded 9mm handgun.

On Aug. 19, Freeport Police documented an incident where an unknown individual scratched the paint of a vehicle, causing damage.

IDENTIT y ThEFT

On Aug. 16, Freeport Police reported an identity theft case where an unknown individual made unauthorized withdrawals using another person’s debit card. No arrest was requested in this case.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

NEwS bRIEF

Freeport man arrested for alleged assault

Darryl Goins, 64, of Freeport, has been arrested following an alleged assault that occurred on Wednesday, Aug. 14 in Roosevelt.

According to detectives, Goins, of 186 Prince Street, allegedly assaulted and threatened a 29-year-old woman with a firearm near Greenwich and Nassau. Goins fled the area but was later

apprehended by detectives in Amityville, where they also recovered a firearm.

He has been charged with menacing, assault, and criminal -possession of a firearm.

Goins was arraigned on Friday, August 16, 2024, at First District Court in Hempstead. –Mohammad Rafiq

Public Notices

Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 19, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 957 Jerome Street, Baldwin Harbor, NY 11510. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Baldwin Harbor, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 553, Lot 22. Approximate amount of judgment $516,562.22 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608105/2017. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with

social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Kathleen M. DiCola, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-003759 81936 148499

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-W4, Plaintiff,

Against

ZAHIRA CASTILLO A/K/A ZAHIRA M. CASTILLO, JANE DOE (REFUSED NAME), JANE DOE (REFUSED NAME), Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/04/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 9/12/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 14 Laurette Lane, Freeport, New York 11520, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being Partly In The Incorporated Village Of Freeport And Partly In Freeport, In The Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New

Relationship change over time PERSON TO PERSON

Iremember a storybook wedding at the Waldorf Astoria that I attended many years ago. The bride was radiant; the groom was beaming. She was exuberant as she spoke about her new husband as a special person who “is wonderful, caring, sensitive and makes me feel so good about myself.” He in turn, was passionate as he spoke about his new wife as a remarkable woman who “is loving, bright, beautiful and my best friend.”

It was a wondrous evening. This couple was glowing. They felt mutually appreciated, valued, esteemed, treasured, safe and loved. How superb, fantastic! We were witnessing couple heaven!!

And then, some crass woman on the reception line muttered (in much too loud a voice) “Just wait. She’ll wise up and see. Marriage is for the man’s benefit. Women get the raw end of the deal.” Her mate took the bait. “What do you mean for the man’s benefit? Women suck men dry. Marriage is a woman’s game. He’ll turn into a pansy soon enough.”

speak about him as “selfish, uncaring, egocentric”; he may speak about her as “controlling, manipulating, never satisfied.” Instead of gazing into each other’s eyes, now they sit in silence as they gaze at the TV.

Nagging differences may blossom into full-blown annoyances. He wants to watch the games on the weekends; she wants to go shopping with him. He can’t sleep unless the TV is on; she needs quiet to doze off. He orders from a menu without regard to cholesterol or cost; she focuses on diet and dollars. Romantic partners all right---like Michael Jordan and Mother Teresa!

Everyone rolled their eyes. They motioned to this couple to shut up. They were spoiling the moment. Romantic weddings appeal to the deepest instinct in all of us who still believe in fairytale love that’s magical and wondrous. Romantic love is nature’s anesthesia, a time of infinite hope, when lovers are fully conscious of their passion and devotion toward one another, unconscious of the difficulties that are yet to surface.

York. Section 62 Block 206 Lot 3

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $493,533.14 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 609074/2020 Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 7/15/24 File Number: 20-303039 SH 148330

Why, oh why was this crass couple intruding on the moment? And yet, many people in the room knew what they were talking about. Romantic love changes. The anesthesia wears off!

As change begins, starry-eyed lovers don’t wish to acknowledge it. Despite themselves, they get annoyed about things they previously glossed over. Still, they’re patient with one another, minimizing differences and apologizing for their judgments. “He’s tired”; “She had a hard day.” Problems are emerging, but so what, they tell themselves. No relationship is perfect!

As time elapses, however, romantic love typically recedes further from consciousness. Awakening from anesthesia, both husband and wife feel less tolerant of behavior that triggers anger, hurt, and disappointment. She may

If romantic love is fading from your relationship, don’t panic! Just because you’re in another stage of love does not mean all is lost. Your task, should you choose to accept it, is to see if you can love this imperfect person, for whom he or she really is, not for whom you imagined your spouse was. Instead of feeling betrayed, dwelling on the reality that “you’re not the person I thought you were,” do what you can to grow the relationship.

Remember, you were under nature’s anesthesia at the beginning of your relationship. You wanted to believe that the two of you were like one. Your life together began as a romance novel, now it feels like a case study in a marriage help book. Bummer!

Though the snags in your relationship are difficult to manage, I hope you don’t end up being like that crass cynical couple at the wedding. Sure, you’d love to magically wish away any relationship troubles, but listen up!

Your current struggle with your spouse presents a fuller picture of who you both really are. Though these struggles may be the last thing your conscious mind desires, unconsciously, it may be just what you need to heal, expand, grow and truly accept your spouse for who he/she is.

©2024

Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach, and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives, and overcome debilitating anxiety, procrastination, and depression. Visit her website at PsychWisdom.com.

Linda Sapadin psychWisdom

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team.

If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.

REQUIREMENTS:

Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

POSITION DETAILS:

Flexible: Part-time or Full-time.

Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.

Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

OFFICE MANAGER NEEDED

Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30 Manage Contracts, Proposals, Emails, Telephone Proficient Microsoft Office, Excel Knowledge Of QuickBooks

Ability To Prioritize And Multi-task Strong Organizational Skills Deadline And Detail Oriented

Starting @$25.00 Per Hour Profit Sharing Plan

VALLEY TREE & LANDSCAPE

Long Beach, 516-889-7534

info@valleytreeny.com

Speech-Language Pathologist MHH Psychology and Speech Language Pathology Therapy Services, PLLC (New Hyde Park, NY) seeks a Speech-Language Pathologist. Responsibilities: Evaluate hearing or speech and language test results, barium swallow results, or medical or background information to diagnose and plan treatment for speech, language, fluency, voice, or swallowing disorder. Requirements: Bachelor of Science or Foreign Equivalent in Speech & Hearing Science or related plus two years of relevant experience in job offered or similar occupation such as Speech Therapist, Audiologist, or any suitable combination of experience/education/training. Must be licensed by New York State Education Department to practice Speech Language Pathology. $71,115.00/year. Send resume to CEO –MHH Psychology and Speech Language Pathology Therapy Services, PLLC., 76-49 Hewlett Street, New Hyde Park, NY 11040

WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED!!!

HHA's, LPN's, Nurse's Aides Childcare, Housekeeping Day Workers No Fee To Employers Serving The Community Over 20 Years Evon's Services 516-505-5510

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT AVAILABLE To Work For You FT/PT Immediately. Experienced. Rockville Centre Vicinity. Call 516-536-6994

SANTA CRUZ SERAG Caregivers Provide The Best Male/ Female Caregivers In America. Certified HHA's, Professional. Experts In Dementia, Alzheimers, Parkinsons Cases. Live-in/Out. Gertrude 347-444-0960

HomesHERALD

Waterfront Beauty

Welcome to your exclusive oceanfront retreat, where luxury and coastal living converge in perfect harmony. This magnificent townhouse offers four bedrooms and three full bathrooms, providing ample space for both relaxation and entertaining. From the moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by hardwood floors and captivated by the panoramic views of the ocean that grace every corner of this exquisite home. The main living area features a spacious and inviting layout, complete with an oceanfront terrace, and a cozy gas fireplace that adds warmth and charm to the space. The upper level of this unit is an exclusive primary retreat with another private terrace. This sanctuary offers over 840 square feet with magnificent 17-foot cathedral ceilings that create an expansive and airy atmosphere. One of the highlights of this townhouse is the private cabana, a secluded oasis where you can escape and unwind in style. Relax beachside and soak up the sun while taking in the stunning ocean views from the two private terraces attached to this home. With four parking spaces, including an attached garage, parking is never a concern, ensuring convenience and ease for you and your guests. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply value the convenience of ample parking, this townhouse has you covered.

Do we have to replace all the windows?

Q. We have been told that when we add to our second floor, over our one-story garage, we will have to change every window in the house so we can meet the “egress” code. This is going to make our project out of budget, so we have to ask somebody else to know whether this is the case, and whether there’s any way we can keep the windows we have. There is nothing wrong with them, and it seems like a lot of cost when, if we left everything alone, we apparently wouldn’t have to do this. Can you explain this?

A. You don’t need to change every window in your home. You got the easy, simple answer, which was wrong or, at best, only partially right, and misleading. If everything could be explained with a simple answer, like the black-and-white, all-ornothing answer that you received, the world would be a simpler place. But nothing is simple, and, unfortunately, regulations on windows, which make sense, were not explained to you correctly.

First, the building codes exist for occupant and public safety. You need to be able to escape in an emergency, and you also may need to be rescued. Picture a big firefighter with his equipment strapped to him, trying to get in to save a child who is huddled, as many will do, in a closet.

Window size regulations in the building codes for escape and rescue were changed with the issuance of the 2003 version. In that updated code, the previous clear opening size was 4 square feet, but it was changed to 5.7 square feet for floors above or below the first floor. The first-floor windows for habitable spaces were then upgraded to 5 square feet clear opening from 4 square feet. This became required if more than 50 percent of the building was being physically altered, or if the occupancy use of a room changed, such as changing a den to a guest room. All bedrooms are now required, in new construction, to have 5.7-square-foot openings with a minimum height of 24 inches and a minimum width of the clear opening, with the window in the open position, of 20 inches.

Now that you have processed that information, the key is “habitable” versus “non-habitable.” Your bathrooms, laundry room and kitchen are not habitable rooms and are not sleeping rooms. The windows in those non-habitable rooms do not have to comply, and need not be changed. Rooms like your dining area, living room and family room may have access to the outside by doors, so those windows do not need to be changed. This leaves the bedrooms, which may need to be changed, but if the area you are adding over your garage does not constitute 50 percent of the dwelling, the new windows need to be 5.7 square feet, but the ones in the old bedrooms do not. Appendix J allows for the existing windows to remain. Calculate the new areas and compare. Good luck!

2024 Monte Leeper

are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the

or to

Monte Leeper, architect.

MarketPlace HERALD

ANTIQUE LOVERS TAKE NOTE! BRIMFIELD IS HERE - ALL SHOWS! September 3-8. New shows open daily! Visit www.brimfieldantiqueweek.com. 2025 dates: May 13-18, July 8-13, September 2-7

GLEN COVE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF '79 45th Reunion September 21, 2024 6PM Contact Barry Feldman for details. (215) 534-7368 verythinguy2@gmail.com

SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

GIRLS FALL CLOTHES: Size 5, Brand New with Tags. $8 each piece. 917-420-5814

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

HANDYMAN

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

GIRLS FALL CLOTHES: Size 10 Brand New with Tags. $11 each piece. 917-420-5814

MARINA'S CLEANING SERVICES: Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. 10% Off With This Ad. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Repairs and Installations for the Household. Careful and Reliable and Vaccinated. Licensed and Insured. 30-Year Nassau County Resident. Friendly Frank Phone/Text 516-238-2112

E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

P.E.B. CRACKERJACK HANDYMAN: Repairs In Carpentry, Roofing, Masonry, Sheetrocking, Chimney. Small Paint Jobs. General Maintenance. No Job Too Small. Licensed/ Insured. Lic#H0101670000. Mike Cleburne 516-830-1316

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. Family Plumbing. 516-599-1011.

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

FREEDOMCARE. LET YOUR loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-855-385-7556

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803

LINCOLN CONTINENTAL MARK 4, 1974. All Black, 80K Miles. Best Offer. Call 516-242-3635

LINCOLN SUBURBAN NAVIGATOR

The real war on women in New York

The slogan “The War on Women” has largely been associated with the critical issue of women’s reproductive rights. With a presidential election coming in November, we have already heard the phrase being used not only in reference to federal races but also in local and state contests. This, of course, raises the question: Is there an actual war on women in New York state that will be, either officially or unofficially, on the ballot in November?

If we examine the question based on the historical use of the slogan, it may be difficult to argue that a war on women is being waged in our state, with the fate of women’s reproductive health being determined by this year’s election results. Yes, the Equal Rights Amendment is on the state ballot, but regardless of whether it is passed or rejected, state law will remain unchanged, and a women’s right to choose exists up to the date of birth of the fetus. The amendment’s passage will enshrine a woman’s right to

ohave an abortion up to the date of birth in the state Constitution.

So, if current state law guaranteeing a woman’s right to choose will not be affected by this year’s ballot, the question remains: Is there currently a war on women? I would argue that there certainly is, and it is having devastating effects on women in New York. The true war is the dramatic increase in crime against women due to lenient crime policies, such as bail reform and the Raise the Age law, which have led to a surge in violence.

It’s the dramatic increase in crime against them due to lenient laws.

According to New York City Police Department data for the past four years, physical attacks on women have surged a startling 41 percent. Rapes are up 11 percent from January to July of this year. And everyone remembers the terrifying string of attacks earlier this year, in which 14 women were sucker-punched in unprovoked public assaults.

Rafael Mangual, a criminal justice policy expert and a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, has stated that the increase in crime in New York is partially due to criminal discovery reform, bail reform, Raise the Age and the migrant

issue. Equally troubling are the progressive policies that have been enacted in Albany, as well as the proposed legislation currently being pushed in the Capitol. Liberal politicians in Albany are seeking to pass a bill that would legalize sex work, or prostitution. This is an extreme and dangerous policy pursuit that will endanger women. The legalization of the sex trade ignores the exploitation of women and the inherent dangers of prostitution.

On July 30, I hosted an Assembly Minority Task Force Hearing on the issue of human sex trafficking at Nassau Community College. The Nassau County Police Department, the district attorney’s and Crime Victim Advocate’s offices, and numerous nonprofits took part. The purpose of the hearing was to highlight the issue of human sex trafficking in New York; develop strategies to identify and assist trafficking victims; and improve coordination between governmental and nonprofit agencies to address the growing sex trafficking problem.

During the hearing, law enforcement officials clearly stated that the legalization of prostitution would increase sex

trafficking and criminal attacks on women. In 2021, the State Legislature passed a bill that allows “loitering for the purpose of prostitution,” which many believe was the first step toward legalizing the sex trade in the state. Based on NYPD statistics, rapes have significantly increased over the past two years in areas of New York City where prostitution is prevalent.

While the importance of women’s reproductive rights continues to be highlighted, the immediate and pressing “War on Women” in our state manifests in the form of increased violence and exploitation. The lenient crime policies and the push for controversial legislation, such as the legalization of prostitution, exacerbate women’s vulnerabilities. The rise in physical attacks, sexual violence, and human trafficking underscores a systemic failure to protect and prioritize their safety.

As voters head to the polls this November, it is imperative to consider not only the symbolic, but also the tangible, threats to women in our state. Addressing these issues with effective and tough, but compassionate, policies should be our foremost priority to ensure their safety and well-being.

Brian Curran represents the 21st Assembly District.

Save a life: drive above the influence

n June 28, the driver of a speeding SUV plowed into a Deer Park nail salon, killing four people, including off-duty NYPD officer Emilia Rennhack. Authorities say the driver of the car, a 64-year-old Dix Hills resident, was intoxicated, and had consumed 18 beers just the night before.

Sadly, this tragedy is not unique, as fatal traffic collisions involving intoxicated and impaired drivers have surged on Long Island since the coronavirus pandemic.

Last Aug. 7, an 18-year-old Freeport man was intoxicated when he raced through a red light in West Hempstead and crashed into a parked car, killing Katerine Vanges Hernandez just two days before her seventh birthday.

Just a day earlier, a 33-year-old man from Lindenhurst was under the influence of fentanyl and cocaine when he rocketed his car into a vehicle stopped at a traffic light. The violent collision killed U.S. Marine veteran Patrice Huntley, his 13-year-old daughter, Hannah, his 10-yearold son, Jeremiah, and, eventually, his

6-year-old step-granddaughter Chantel, who succumbed to her injuries six days later. The driver reportedly reached a speed of 120 miles per hour, and failed to brake until a half-second before impact, hitting the Huntley family car at 95 mph.

Each of these tragedies was devastating, and perhaps even worse, they were all preventable. As news headlines remind us daily, families will have to live the rest of their lives with the physical, mental and emotional trauma and irreparable loss caused by someone else’s poor judgment.

According to a recent report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, the pandemic had a negative impact on traffic safety in New York. From 2019 to 2022, the report stated, the state saw a 45 percent increase in the number of fatalities involving drivers with blood alcohol levels above the legal limit, which is 12 percentage points above the national average. In 2022, about two-thirds of traffic fatalities in New York involved a combination of unsafe speeding and alcohol.

patterns and behaviors in the U.S. changed significantly. Of the drivers who remained on the roads, some engaged in riskier behavior including speeding, failure to wear seat belts, and driving under the influence.”

A recent increase in fatalities on the road has been attributed to riskier driving.

According to a recent Newsday report, lawmakers and safe-driving advocates are renewing calls to lower New York’s legal blood alcohol content level from 0.08 to 0.05 percent. But this policy change would place a disproportionate burden on law enforcement. Traffic stops, checkpoints and arrests have their place, but are just one piece of the trafficsafety puzzle.

The state Department of Motor Vehicles and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee could and should be doing more to promote programming and resources to ensure driver, pedestrian and road safety. Culturally, the DMV has been reduced to a bureaucratic, inconvenient, soul-sucking entity, and appears to be divorced from proactive efforts to ensure safety on the roads.

program needs to be better promoted and advertised, and made more accessible. Safe-driving advocates such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving are also calling for the widespread implementation of driver assistance, monitoring and alcohol-detection systems in vehicles across the U.S.

Driver-assistance technology enables a car to take action such as lane-keeping assistance and collision intervention. Driver monitoring systems include cameras or other sensors that monitor such things as eye movement without compromising privacy, advocates say. Alcoholdetection sensors in the vehicle determine whether a driver is drunk, keeping the public safe while ensuring privacy.

Many of these technologies are on the way, as the Biden administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 authorized the U.S. Department of Transportation to complete a rule-making process and issue final safety standards for impaired-driving-prevention technology on all new cars by November 2024.

The recent increase in fatalities has been attributed to increased risks taken by drivers. Research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states, “After the declaration of the public health emergency in March 2020, driving

For example, the DMV has an Impaired Driver Program available not only through court mandates, but to anyone who wants to join voluntarily. The IDP offers in-depth education on alcohol and other drugs to help participants identify and change high-risk behavior. The

No matter your preference or politics, it will take a comprehensive, all-handson-deck effort to ensure that more children and families are not harmed, and that the victims of these fatal collisions did not die in vain.

A. Valere is

of

and senior

Karl
chief
staff
policy adviser of Assemblyman Khaleel M. Anderson. He lives in Baldwin.
KARL A. VALERE

HeraLd editoriaL

A relief for Long Island’s senior community

FHERALD

or years, Long Island’s seniors have faced a daunting challenge: the ever-rising cost of prescription medications. In a region where the cost of living already stretches many budgets to the breaking point, our elderly neighbors have often been forced to make impossible choices between their health and their financial stability. now, however, there is a ray of hope on the horizon for nassau and Suffolk counties’ substantial senior population.

The federal government’s recent announcement of negotiated prices for 10 commonly prescribed medications under Medicare marks a significant turning point. For Long Island, where nearly one in five residents is over age 65, this change promises real, tangible benefits.

Consider the impact on our community. The price of Eliquis, a blood thinner used by thousands of area seniors to prevent strokes, will be slashed by 56 percent. For a retiree on a fixed income, that could mean a savings of nearly $3,500 a year — money that can now go toward other essentials like food and utilities, or even small luxuries that improve quality of life.

Similarly, a 66 percent price reduction for Jardiance, a crucial medication for diabetes and heart failure, could be life-changing for many of our neighbors. With diabetes affecting a significant portion of the elderly population, this price cut could mean the difference between managing the condition effectively and facing severe health compli-

cations.

And the benefits extend beyond individual savings. By reducing the financial strain of medication costs, we may see improved adherence to prescribed treatment plans among our senior population. That could lead to better health outcomes, and potentially reduce the burden on our local health care systems, including hospitals like Mt. Sinai South nassau and northwell.

Moreover, these savings could have a ripple effect throughout our local economy. When our seniors have more disposable income, they’re more likely to patronize local businesses, contributing to the vitality of our communities.

It is crucial, however, to address the concerns raised by some about the potential impact on pharmaceutical innovation when the federal government steps in to negotiate drug prices. Critics argue that negotiated prices could stifle research and development, potentially depriving us of future breakthrough treatments.

While this concern is valid, it’s important to put it in perspective. The pharmaceutical industry remains highly profitable, with margins that far exceed most other sectors of the economy. Many breakthrough drugs have been developed with significant public funding through institutions like the national Institutes of Health. And the negotiated prices, while lower, will still provide these companies with substantial revenue.

Furthermore, we must weigh the hypothetical loss of future innovations

against the very real, immediate benefit to our community. For the senior you know who has been cutting pills in half to make them last longer, or the retiree next door who has been skipping doses to stretch their budget, these price reductions aren’t just numbers — they’re a lifeline.

Long Island has always valued innovation, but we also believe in taking care of our own. We can and should continue to support pharmaceutical research, but not at the cost of our seniors’ health and financial security.

As these new prices take effect in 2026, we encourage our senior readers to stay informed and discuss the changes with their health care providers. Those who are concerned about how lower prices might affect their medications can reach out to local resources like the nassau County Department of Human Services for guidance.

This step toward making medications more affordable isn’t just a win for our elderly population — it’s a win for all of us who believe in the promise of a compassionate, equitable health care system. It’s a reflection of our values as a community, showing that we prioritize the well-being of our neighbors over corporate profits.

So let’s continue to advocate for policies that benefit our local seniors while also supporting responsible innovation. Long Island has always found ways to balance progress with compassion, and this is one more opportunity for us to show what makes our community truly special.

Momalas — and more — unite

for Kamala

To the Editor:

Re Randi Kreiss’s column in the Aug. 8-14 issue, “Momalas for Kamala, a thread to unite us”: So many of us are also hoping that “all the disparate political identities will form a cohesive movement to elect (Kamala) Harris president,” as Ms. Kreiss writes.

In the meantime, I humbly add another “mini cell” to the body in case folks are unaware: Seniors for Harris, who, in the interest of protecting our Social Security and Medicare benefits, are holding regular Zoom calls.

Harris’s

policies will ‘sink this country!’

To the Editor:

In “Momalas for Kamala,” Randi Kreiss listed a few

opinions

Blakeman’s legal gambles are costing Nassau taxpayers

aconcerning trend has emerged in Nassau County under the leadership of County executive Bruce A. Blakeman and the Republican legislative majority. their approach, which prioritizes headline-grabbing issues over effective governance, is already proving costly to county taxpayers. time and again, Blakeman has seized on controversial topics to push through laws that serve more to boost his political profile than to benefit the public. the Aug. 5 session of the Legislature is a prime example. During that session, an overly broad and likely unconstitutional ban on wearing face masks in public places was hurriedly passed.

My Democratic minority colleagues

and I support the intent behind restoring New York state’s mask legislation to prevent the use of masks by criminals. Any law we enact, however, must be constitutional, to ensure that it can withstand legal challenges and protect the public effectively. Despite the fact that we offered extensive feedback, our input was largely ignored, and a Democratic counterproposal — constitutionally sound and narrowly tailored to target criminals — was dismissed by the majority.

the county executive prioritizes headlines over effective governance.

As a result, yet another poorly crafted law was added to the books when Blakeman signed it into law on Aug. 14. Another lawsuit, funded by Nassau taxpayers, is now almost certain.

this pattern of hasty, ill-considered legislation isn’t new. In June, the Republican majority passed, and Blakeman signed, a law barring transgender female athletes from using county

Letters

of the groups that would support Kamala Harris in a kind of “political wave . . . a tsunami of relief and joy” that will push people to support her. Kreiss mentioned Black women for Kamala, White Dudes for Kamala, White Women for Kamala.

A few groups obviously were not mentioned: Antisemites for Kamala, Defund the Police Crowd for Kamala, Open Border Supporters for Kamala, Pro-Hamas Rioters for Kamala, Antifa and BLM Rioters and Looters for Kamala.

Did I not mention the Free College, Health Insurance and Social Security for Illegals Crowd for Kamala? How about the Abortion Anywhere and Anytime Supporters for Kamala?

Yes, Randi. It’s a real tsunami of love and support for Kamala Harris that will sink this country!

Nassau’s mask ban is ‘antithesis of freedom’

to the editor:

Nassau County passed a mask ban two weeks ago, just as everyone I know is getting Covid-19 again, and I have to wonder what we stand to gain from this. t here are people who have genuine reasons to wear masks to protect their health. I’m one of them. I have asthma, and I do not welcome the notion of being questioned by police for protecting myself from viruses that could destroy my quality of life. I do not trust anyone but my doctors to determine if my

sports facilities. the law was immediately condemned as “blatantly illegal” by state Attorney General Letitia James, and criticized by advocates as a “solution in search of a problem.” Lawsuits quickly followed, and the county has already lost in court on procedural grounds, when Blakeman tried to institute the ban via executive order. I anticipate that the courts will strike down this law as well.

Blakeman’s approach to New York’s shift to evenyear local elections further illustrates the problem. In March 2023, before the proposed election system change was even enacted, he hired a law firm to explore suing the state. the contract, for $500,000, didn’t come before the Legislature until a year later, this March, long after the work had begun. this undermines the Legislature’s oversight role, and exposes how the legislative majority is treated as a rubber stamp rather than

a co-equal branch of government. Once again, taxpayer money is being funneled into a politically motivated legal battle. these legal distractions take attention away from pressing issues that the Blakeman administration is neglecting, such as the county’s aging infrastructure, its high cost of living and its broken assessment system. Despite promises to cut taxes and make the assessment system fair for all, these issues remain unresolved. the acting assessor continues in his role beyond the six-month interim period, without the required appointment by the Legislature, potentially compromising the legality of his actions and creating yet another legal risk for the county.

Leading Nassau County is a serious responsibility that requires the county executive’s full focus. It’s time for Blakeman to abandon these costly legal gambles and redirect resources toward addressing the real needs of our residents.

Debra Mulé represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District.

Framework by Joseph Daniel

exemption is “legitimate,” and that’s not something I should need to worry about. the county mask legislation claims to have exemptions for religious and medical reasons, but it’s very unclear how that will be enforced. In America, we shouldn’t even be talking about enforcing rules for what people can wear. that is the very antithesis of freedom.

AMANDA MuLLeN Oceanside

Reproductive science made me a grandfather

to the editor:

Sixteen years ago, my daughter and her husband were trying to get pregnant for the first time, and after several years they had to use in vitro fertilization. After several rounds, we were blessed with a beautiful baby, my first grandchild. Without the science behind in vitro fertilization, my daughter would not have children, and I would not have had the joy of a grandson.

I recently learned that my congressman in the 4th District, Anthony D’esposito, is pushing an extreme agenda to restrict reproductive freedom. I cannot vote for him this November. Families deserve to be able to have children, and government needs to mind its own business! I will be voting for Laura Gillen for Congress this year, because she will support women’s rights for reproduction freedom.

One Minion, at least, looks interested in the news — Universal Orlando
DeBra mULÉ

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.