LONG BEACH
serving Point Lookout & East Atlantic Beach
Surf for All volunteers came out to see the debut of a new adaptive board, courtesy of Dunkin’.
Adaptive surfing, with sprinkles
By BRENDAN CARPENTER bcarpenter@liherald.com
If you took a walk on the boardwalk on Aug. 15 and strolled past the Skudin Surf shop, you no doubt saw the massive crowd spilling into the bike lane, and a Dunkin’ iced coffee with legs wandering around. But why?
Just over a year ago, Brandon Klein, who volunteers with Long Beach’s Surf for All, had an idea: an inclusive surfboard with a seat, to help those with special needs learn to surf.
Klein, a junior at Jericho High School at the time, did some research, and found the British organization Cerebra, which helps children with brain conditions and has
ContinueD on pAge 10
Hempstead’s Western Bays now boast cleaner water
By ANGElINA ZINGARIEllo azingariello@liherald.com
The water quality of 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.
The Western Bays contribute greatly to the quality of life
RIChARD
GUARDINo Executive director, L.I. Regional Planning Council
the bays’ health. They emphasized that multi-level efforts to reduce nitrogen pollution in the waterways should remain a top priority.
“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
Excess nitrogen is recognized as the leading cause of water quality deterioration in the region, contributing to toxic algal blooms, low oxygen conditions, 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
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Bob Arkow/Herald
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Mount Sinai Hospital receives a $1M donation
Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital 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 contribution, 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,” Adhi Sharma, president of Mount Sinai South Nassau said. “Patients will no longer need to travel to New York City for these opportunities.”
equipped with advanced technologies for cancer treatment. The $1 million donation will help Mount Sinai South Nassau extend access to clinical trials already underway at The Tisch Cancer Institute.
atients will no longer need to travel to New York City.
Adhi ShArmA president, Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital
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,” Alan Weiner, trustee of the Betty Ajces Trust and a longtime friend of the Ajces family, said.
The department, based at the Gertrude and 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 and Louis Feil Cancer Center treats approximately 2,500 patients annually and is
“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,” Rajiv Datta, chair of the department of surgery and director of the Feil Cancer Center, said. 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,” Karyn Goodman, associate director of clinical research at The Tisch Cancer Institute, said.
–Brendan Carpenter
Herald file photo
Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital received a $1 million donation to enhance clinical trials and research.
a spirited performance for a
A tribute concert for children with cancer
Sunrise Day Camp-Long Island became a haven of joy and music as campers and their families gathered for an exclusive concert by Let’s Sing Taylor, the world’s largest Taylor Swift tribute band on Aug 14. The event took place at the Henry Kaufman campgrounds in Wheatley Heights, offering a day of respite and celebration for children battling cancer and their siblings.
The concert, a special gift from ML Presents—the band’s management team— brought the magic of Taylor Swift’s music to the camp, creating an unforgettable experience for those in attendance. The Let’s Sing Taylor band delivered energetic renditions of Taylor Swift’s hits. The
smiles on the faces of the children and their families were a testament to the impact of the performance, as they momentarily set aside their daily challenges to immerse themselves in the joy of music.
Sunrise Day Camp - Long Island, part of the Sunrise Association in Oceanside, is a summer day camp that provides a free and supportive environment for children with cancer and their siblings. The camp’s mission is to bring back the joys of childhood for these young warriors, and events like the Let’s Sing Taylor concert play a significant role in achieving this goal.
–Kepherd Daniel
Nicole Gangi/Herald photos
Let’s Sing Taylor, the world’s largest Taylor Swift tribute band gave
good cause. Jason Wexler on Keyboard, singing was Emily Victoria, drummer was Vincent Precite and on guitar was Matthew Fernandez.
Campers and their families had a fun time singing and dancing to the sounds of Taylor Swift.
Emily Victoria played the role of Taylor Swift as campers sang along to the sounds.
On stage was director Deanna Slade, specialist Kemi Idowu and program director Dami Accomando.
Western Bays water quality has improved
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 pollution 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,” said Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin. “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
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
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.
Angelina Zingariello/Herald lanning Council joined town of Hempstead council members to update the sland water sources, which they say has increased significantly.
Distributing backpacks, in time for school
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Beach Catholic Outreach is preparing for its Annual Back to School Backpack Distribution event, scheduled for this Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the St. Mary’s of the Isle Church in Long Beach in the auditorium.
The event will provide backpacks and essential school supplies to local children in need, helping them prepare for the upcoming school year.
The primary mission of Beach Catholic Outreach is to aid community members facing hardship. This mission encompasses various efforts, including food distribution, clothing donations, and seasonal events that support families during crucial times of the year. The Back to School Backpack Distribution directly addresses the needs of students in the community.
“The Back to School backpack and supplies distribution began over a decade ago because the need was evident,” said Vincentian with Tri-Parish conference and one of the coordinators of the event, Ginny Sievers. “Many of our neighbors who came to the Soup Kitchen and the Food Pantry were simply unable to purchase the many items requested on school supplies lists.”
Families participating in the event must be registered with Beach Catholic Outreach. They are assigned a specific
time slot to “shop” for backpacks and school essentials. Each child will also receive a gift card to purchase any additional items they may need for the school year.
The event is organized by volunteers like Amanda Tolmach, who has been involved with Outreach for 15 years. Her journey with the organization began as a Girl Scout leader when she introduced her troop to the outreach efforts in Long Beach.
“I would bring my troop starting when they were 5 years old to help organize the food pantry and coordinate food drives and toy drives for the outreach program,” Tolmach explained. “Which helps our Long Beach community members that are in need.”
Tolmach’s continued involvement is driven by the joy she experiences each year. For her, the most rewarding part of the event is seeing the happiness on the children’s faces when they receive
their backpacks. That joy, along with the opportunity to ease parents’ burdens by helping with school supply needs, inspires her to return and assist with the event year after year.
The event is supported by a wide range of donors. Backpacks have been provided by tri-parish parishioners, volunteers, and community members. Corporations and organizations have also made contributions. The fashion brand
Steve Madden has donated backpacks, while local Girl Scout troops, including Island Beach Troops 2059, 2260, 2268, 2296, 2358, 2375, 2462, 2486, and 2523, have purchased supplies. Sweet Wink, a local children’s clothing manufacturer, has donated hundreds of t-shirts for distribution this year, ensuring that each child not only receives a backpack but also a new shirt to start the school year.
“Each year, approximately 20 volunteers from our Outreach program and our Tri-Parish St. Vincent de Paul conference help with the distribution,” Sievers said. “Since many St. Vincent de Paul conference members are also Outreach volunteers, the two ministries often join forces to support each other in many projects throughout the year.”
Beach Catholic Outreach’s work extends beyond the Back to School event. The organization also hosts a Thanksgiving distribution, a Christmas toy distribution, and an Easter basket giveaway, all aimed at easing stress.
Herald file photo
St. Mary’s of the Isle has held numerous drives, including one this Friday.
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
By TONY BELLISSIMO
tbellissimo@liherald.com
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
By Diane Schlindwein
Overseeing your child’s academic life is essential, but if you find yourself constantly hovering over him or her at homework time, recalculating every math problem and editing every essay, you might be what educational and psychological experts call a “helicopter parent.”
Being overfocused on your child’s performance and behavior can stem from a few things: anxiety, compensation, fear of consequences or peer pressure, as Kate Bayless writes in Parents magazine. Surely, behind that is a commitment to your child succeeding and being taken care of, though it can have consequences. But how do you be an involved parent without smothering your kids?
Dr. Bill Moredock, a longtime licensed psychologist who is also an elementary school principal, says helicopter parenting isn’t good, but neither is total uninvolvement. Parents should be involved with their children’s academic life but need to act within reason, he says. In other words, constant hovering isn’t necessary, and some involvement is important.
“Parents should monitor their children’s
progress in school starting from day one,” he says. “From preschool through graduate school parents should have a stake in how their children are progressing at every level. Of course, the degree of involvement should vary depending on factors such as age, grade, special circumstances, transitions, and the specific needs of the child.”
“It is an empirically proven fact that children with parental support have a higher probability for success in school than children who lack support,” he says. “Parents who are completely uninvolved set their children up for academic failure. Parents need to set the expectation and standard (for school work.”
Understand your child’s personality and learning style
But when it comes to monitoring schoolwork and overseeing homework time, parents also need to consider their child’s personality and learning style. “Each child is different,” he says. “Ask any parent who has had more than one child. Each child has his or her own set of inherited traits. Some children need a lot of support on school-related endeavors. Others seem to need very little.” Take the time to observe
what kind of support would benefit them before just jumping in.
Dr. George S. Glass, who co-authored the book “The Overparenting Epidemic” with David Tabatsky, says helicopter parents are often invasive, overly attentive and competitive and have trouble separating themselves from their offspring. “Our children are not extensions of ourselves,” he says. “Each of them is his or her own person, no matter what stage of development the individual is at.”
“Children need to be given the space to try things out and experience failure as well as success,” Glass says. “That should begin at an early age and certainly by the time they go to school.”
Give them a break
Moredock adds that no matter what the grade level, having some down time is also important. “Kids do need breaks — time to exercise and have some fun,” he says. And even when children are under extreme pressure to get homework finished and out of the way, parents should not do the work for them. “Parents who do their children’s homework are fostering dependency and perhaps even encouraging cheating,” he says.
Photo: PParents want their children to thrive, be happy and succeed. If you feel you’ve been hovering a bit too much, look for opportunities to take a step back from solving problems
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 fos
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 assign
Riding waves on a new adaptive board
designed innovative surfboards. At first glance, Klein was astonished. He asked Cerebra if Surf for All could buy any of the boards. But Cerebra had only made only one overseas, as a project. Nonetheless, they offered Klein the blueprints for it.
The blueprints weren’t the only aspect of the project to come from the United Kingdom. Klein; Mike Becker, the owner of Nature’s Shapes Custom Surfboards, in Sayville; and the team that constructed the board also received a custom seat from Tillett Racing in Kent, England. The seat is comparable to those used in racecars, and is adjustable, so the board can be used by surfers of various ages and sizes.
Klein worked on the project while completing his schoolwork, raised money for it through a GoFundMe page and bake sales, and debuted the first adaptive board last June on the boardwalk. At the time, Klein said it was believed to be the first one in North America.
Earlier this year, Dunkin’s Joy in Childhood Foundation got wind that Klein was planning to reveal a second board. Last week on the boardwalk, Klein, now a newly minted high school graduate, debuted the new adaptive board, with some help from Dunkin’.
“I want to thank everyone for coming to show support,” he told the crowd outside the Skudin shop, at Riverside Boulevard. “I really want to thank Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation for the opportunity, for funding the board, and just doing everything. I want to thank Surf for All for all the support that they were always giving me, and I’d like to thank my family, just for being there, always supporting me.”
The newest board, also shaped by Mike Becker, of Nature’s Shapes, is a bit different from the one Klein introduced a year ago. It still features the seat from Tillet Racing, but the seat now has tracks, so it can be move up and down the board and set in different positions. The first version was white and blue. This one is also white, but with painted sprinkles, resembling a Dunkin’ vanilla frosted donut.
The foundation also presented Klein and Cliff Skudin, a co-founder of Surf for All, with a check for $25,000.
The new adaptive board, Skudin said, “has all the different tools to get more people in the water and surf. Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood is really the spearhead of this, with their support. This has been incredible.”
Jeff Polizotto, a Dunkin’ franchisee, said that a few of his colleagues live in Long Beach, and have helped spread the word about the work Surf for All does with children and adults with special needs. Once foundation leaders heard about the idea, and the work Klein was doing, they jumped in and funded the whole thing.
“What they do is, they provide funds for us to continue to be in the modern, adaptive world,” Dr. Jeanine Sorensen, a member of Surf for All’s board of direc-
Brandon Klein and his proud father, Long Beach City Court Judge Cory Klein, with the two adaptive surfboards.
tors, said of the foundation, “and continue to be innovative with our surfers.”
For his part, Klein will attend UNC Chapel Hill this fall, where he will be an Innovation Scholar. UNC created its Innovation Scholarships in 2009, to recruit students who are promising innovators and entrepreneurs.
those who otherwise wouldn’t now have a chance to surf thanks to
Bob Arkow/Herald photos
Some of the many young surfers — and one mascot coffee — who volunteered to help out.
the new adaptive surfboard.
the dunkin’ Joy in Children foundation presented a check for $25,000 to Surf for all’s dr. Jeanine Sorensen, Cliff Skudin and Brandon Klein.
The pervasive smell of the ‘devil’s lettuce’
As restrictions loosen on the
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO & WILL SHEELINE of the Herald
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.
Rosemary King thanks after a successful surgery
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Rosemary King, wife of former Long Island Congressman Peter King, was rushed to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset for an emergency gallbladder removal after experiencing severe abdominal pain.
On June 30, the active 79-year-old Seaford resident found herself bedridden and in excruciating discomfort, prompting her family doctor to recommend immediate medical attention.
When she first arrived ... complaining of pains everywhere throughout her abdomen
DR. ALLiSon CoHEn emergency medicine specialist, North Shore University Hospital
Peter King, who represented parts of Nassau County’s South Shore in Congress for 28 years before retiring in 2021, drove his wife to the hospital under stressful conditions, he said, battling rain and traffic on the Long Island Expressway. King said in a news release that his wife has a high threshold for pain but was screaming during the car ride to the hospital.
“I just didn’t feel she was out of the woods until after the surgery,” King said in a news release.
Upon arrival, Dr. Allison Cohen, an emergency medicine specialist, took over An ultrasound revealed an inflamed and distended gallbladder. Transplant surgeon Dr. Gerardo Tamayo-Enriquez performed the gallbladder removal, which did not go as planned. What was initially a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure turned into an open surgery when Dr. Tamayo-Enriquez saw the extent of the internal trauma, and the gallbladder itself was difficult to access, because the liver was out of place.
Despite the complications, Dr. Tamayo-Enriquez emphasized the procedure was coordinated well and performed promptly.
Rosemary spent seven days in the hospital recovering and has since returned to her normal activities, including driving. She expressed her deep gratitude to the medical staff and her husband for their support during an Aug. 14 news conference at the hospital.
“I had the best care—professional, emotional, and personal treatment from everyone,” she said. “From the person who brought me my food to the person who put the IV in my arm.”
King called his wife’s recovery “a miracle,” praising the hospital staff’s transparency and attentiveness. He added that his wife is now “back in fighting form.”
“To actually see it step-by-step, how it’s done, and the care that’s given and the concern that’s given, there was never an unanswered question,” King said, “and that, to me, is as important as anything else.”
North Shore University Hospital. Fiftyfour years ago, their son was born there via emergency cesarean. Now, the same hospital has provided life-saving care to
The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale, New
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
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
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
MEG C. RYAN, ESQ. Interim CEO & President Chief Legal Officer NHCC Nassau University Medical Center
DEAN RISKIN Co-Founder & CEO Hair We Share
TORI COHEN
TODD J. COHEN, MD Chief of Cardiology, Director of Medical Device Innovation New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine FELICIA KASOW Director of Marketing & Operations PURE Mammography
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
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
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
Charles Shaw/Herald
Former Congressman Peter King and his wife, Rosemary King, stand with Dr. Allison Cohen and Dr. Gerardo Tamayo-Enriquez at North Shore University Hospital in
Help for low-income utility service users
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced last week that the state’s public service commission has approved the implementation of the Energy Affordability Guarantee pilot program, aimed at helping low-income households manage electricity costs.
The pilot program, which will be available to approximately 1,000 participants, is designed for households that fully electrify their space and water heating through the EmPower+ program. Eligible participants will receive tailored bill assistance to ensure they pay no more than six percent of their annual household income on electricity.
“Affordability is a top priority, and we’re making much-needed investments to help low-income New Yorkers affordably electrify their homes,” Hochul said. “With the Energy Affordability Guarantee, we’re overcoming barriers to clean energy adoption for the most vulnerable families across the state.”
The Energy Affordability Guarantee was first proposed by Hochul in her 2023 State of the State address. Funding for the multi-year pilot program comes from a $50 million appropriation in the 2025 state budget.
To qualify, households must meet income eligibility standards, defined as an annual household income equal to or lower than 60 percent of the state median income, and must also participate in the EmPower+ program. Administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, EmPower+ provides no-cost and subsidized energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades for low- to moderate-income households.
A
ensure low-income households are able to manage electricity costs.
This new initiative builds on existing policies, including a 2016 public service commission energy affordability policy that aims to limit low-income households’ energy costs to six percent of their annual
income. The state’s broader portfolio of energy efficiency initiatives, directed at income-eligible households, represents nearly $170 million annually from 2020 through 2025.
Rory Christian, chair of the public service commission, expressed support for the new program.
“This effort will be a game-changer for low-income families, as we seek to balance the equally important goals of decarbonizing our housing stock, while advancing energy affordability for low-income customers,” he said.
The public service commission expects the pilot program will fill in important information gaps regarding the electrification of low-income households such as the incremental electricity consumption and cost associated with operating heat pumps across different customer and housing profiles, while mitigating energy burden increases. These insights, according the commission, will inform broader strategies to promote the decarbonization of the housing sector while prioritizing energy affordability and consumer protections for the most vulnerable New Yorkers.
Laurie Wheelock, executive director of the Public Utility Law Project, a nonprofit that advocates for lowincome utility customers, said the organization has long supported the EmPower+ program.
“We’re excited to now see the Energy Affordability Guarantee work hand-in hand through this pilot to provide much-needed relief to a thousand participating low-income households struggling with high energy bills,” she said.
For more information on the program, and to learn more about eligibility standards, visit NYSERDA.ny.gov.
Courtesy Gov. Kathy Hochul
program was announced by the Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York state last week, to
BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN
ASocial media and its impact GUEST COLUMN
s I revisited my Facebook messages of 2010, I was reminded of the excitement we all shared in joining this new universal platform where we could connect and discover family and friends everywhere!
Fast forward to today, a time when studies have shown how the lack of social media boundaries reveals negative consequences, especially relating to our young children and teens, as well as our overall mental health. As such, social media is a universal topic that cannot be ignored, especially as technology and artificial intelligence continue to grow towards altering our human connections and experiences.
Effects on mental health
Social media use may increase feelings of anxiety and depression, specifically in teens and young adults. The addictive nature of social media activates the brain’s reward center by releasing dopamine.
Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) For Kids Act to require social media companies to restrict addictive feeds on their platforms for users under 18.
Emotional validation
But what about why people post in the first place? Social media can be a great way to keep in touch with people and share information. However, it can also feed into excessive reassuranceseeking behaviors and unhealthy attempts at getting personal validation from others.
This is a “feel-good chemical” linked to pleasurable activities. When we post something, our friends and family can “like” it, giving us a boost of dopamine and personal validation. Equally true, excessive perceived threats on social media affect the stress response. Meaning, if you’re exposed to verbal aggression continually, words can physically injure your brain and overall health and emotional well being.
Relating to children and adolescents
We have gaps in our full understanding of the mental health impacts posed by social media but at this point cannot conclude it is sufficiently safe for children and adolescents. We must better understand the answers to key questions, such as, which types of content are most harmful and what factors can protect young people from the negative effects of social media, especially relating to the developing brain.
New York could ban smartphones in school
On June 20, 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul, signed nation-leading legislation to combat addictive social media feeds and protect kids online. Legislation S.7694A/A.8148A establishes the
Social media and defamation
On the negative side, it is clear that social media has become a liability landmine impacting people everywhere and why considering contacting a defamation attorney for legal advice about what you can do in addressing online character defamation.
Seek fulfillment outside of social media
Prioritize in-person, human connections and activities to help improve your mental health. This can also lead to decreased screen time. Find activities that fulfill you outside of your phone. Hiking, picnics with friends, painting, reading, or walking your dog can be great ways to connect with others. Activities you enjoy can also improve your physical and mental health.
On a personal note: Social media is here to stay, impacting our human lives on every level and why it is absolutely crucial to implement appropriate regulations and legal support. To do so to protect our personal lives, mental health and emotional safety. After all, our words carry “life” and the power to impact our daily lives and the lives of others, be it to heal or hurt, open hearts and minds or close them. To understand, “the power of words” is real and why words can only be forgiven, not forgotten.
Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.
D onna P isacano B rown
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.
By Iris Wiener
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
Aug. 30
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
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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.
Pet Adoption Program
Adopt your “fur-ever” friend this summer. There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during the ”summer of love” 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 before stepping foot in the shelter online at HempsteadNY. gov/179/Animal-Shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page at Hempstead Town Animal Shelter. For more information, contact (516) 785-5220.
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.
Family movie matinee
Enjoy some family time with movie on Long Beach Library’s big screen, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2-4 p.m. See Time Burton’s “Beetlejuce,” rated PG. A happy couple with a lovely country house die in a car accident and must haunt their old home while waiting to be processed into heaven. Too nice to be scary, they befriend the new tenant’s daughter. When they fail to prevent the girl’s parents from ruining the house, they ask a devilish spirit for help. 111 W. Park Ave. For more information, visit LongBeachPL.com or call (516) 432-7201.
NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!
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.
Historical Society Arts and Crafts Fair
Browse among the hundreds of vendors that line the boardwalk from Long Beach to Edwards Boulevard, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 24-25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Pick up a special gift or something for yourself. For more information, visit LongBeachHistoricalSociety. org.
Sept.
8
King/Queen of the Beach Surf Contest
Come and be crowned the King or Queen of the beach!
The annual surf contest for boys and girls 18 and under will take place of Sunday, Sept. 8, starting at 7:30 a.m., on the Long Beach Boulevard beach. The contest is in honor of Brian Ward and Danny Bobis. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov/races.
Mah Jongg club
Do you play Mah Jongg and want to meet other community members who play? Join in the game, at Long Beach Library, Wednesdays at 11 a.m. in the auditorium. Practice your skills and have fun while you do it. Bring your own Mah Jongg tiles. 111 W. Park Ave. For more information, visit LongBeachPL. com or call (516) 432-7201.
Having an event?
Michelle O’Neill Volleyball Tournament
Come get sandy and play some fun volleyball while raising for a good cause at the 28th annual Michelle O’Neill Tournament, Saturday, Sept. 7. Enjoy the thrill of playing, or watching, and music, raffles, food and merchandise. For more information, visit MONFoundation.org.
Summer concert series
Enjoy some tunes on the beach as the summr concert series continues , Wednesday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. Enjoy tribute band Foreign Jouney. on Lincoln Boulevard Beach.
Ask the tech guy
Do you have questions about your computer or laptop? Want to learn more about Zoom, streaming movies, or downloading ebooks to your device? Join Long Beach Library’s Tech Guy, every Wednesday, 2-3 p.m., to get answers to your pressing tech questions. 111 W. Park Ave. For information, visit LongBeachPL.org.
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.
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 fireworks. DelGuidice, known for his appearances with Billy Joel, captivates audienceswith his renditions of the Joel hits, along with his own tunes. 1300 Lido Blvd. For more information, visit toh.li.
UnSound Surf Contest
Calling all professional surfers! The annual professional surf tournament hosted by UnSound Surf will take place on the Lincoln Boulevard beach, Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 11-Sept 14. The waiting period will be dependent on the surf conditions. For more information, visit UnSoundSurf.com
Latino Civic Association Kite Festival
Sept. 15
Come fly some colorful kites and commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Latino Civic Association Kite Festival, Sunday, Sept. 15, on Laurelton Boulevard Beach, noon-2 p.m. The kites are free to participants while supplies last. For more information, visit LBLatinoCivic.org.
Irish Day Parade and Festival
See green and wear green for the annual Long Beach Irish Day Parade and Festival on Saturday, Oct. 5. Beech Street will be closed and filled with food trucks, games and live music. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov.
Labor Day Run
Come run on the boards for the 34th annual Robert McAvoy Labor Day 5-mile race on Monday, Sept. 2. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. on Laurelton Boulevard. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov/races.
Movies on the Beach
Experience the thrill of watching the classic blockbuster, “Jaws,” right on the shore-line on the Edwards Boulevard beach on Friday, Sept. 6. The movie will start at dark. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov/movies.
LEGAL NOTICE
REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
JPMORGAN CHASE
BANK, NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION, Plaintiffagainst - MARTIN P. NOWAK, et al
Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 29, 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 “Rain or Shine” on the 4th day of September, 2024 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Premises known as 113 New York Avenue, Long Beach, NY 11561.
(Section: 59, Block: 265, Lot: 28)
Approximate amount of lien $362,438.72 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 602421/2019.
Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170
Tel. 347/286-7409
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: June 28, 2024
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 148187
Public Notices Public
Crime watCh
arrest
to Article
the
of New York, both as amended, a
public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 4th day of September, 2024, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations:
BALDWIN
ATLANTIC AVENUE (TH 295/24) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the west curbline of Grand Avenue, then west for a distance of 45 feet.
EAST MEADOW MARIAN COURT (TH 332/24) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Prospect Avenue east for a distance of 55 feet.
INWOOD
LAWRENCE AVENUE (TH 269/24) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Pearl Street, north for a distance of 32 feet.
LAWRENCE AVENUE (TH 269/24) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of Pearl Street, south for a distance of 42 feet.
LAWRENCE AVENUE (TH 269/24) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Pearl Street, north for a distance of 30 feet.
LAWRENCE AVENUE (TH 269/24) West SideNO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 110feet north of the north curbline of Pearl Street, north for a distance of 26 feet.
LAWRENCE AVENUE (TH 269/24) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at a point 156 feet north of the north curbline of Pearl Street, north for a distance of 30 feet.
LEVITTOWN MILLER PLACE (TH 317/24) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Elm Place for a distance of 50 feet.
HEMPSTEAD TURNPIKE (TH 334/24) North SideNO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 175 feet east of the east curbline of Loring Road, east for a distance of 56 feet.
LIDO BEACH
EDEN ROAD (TH 308/24) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Blackheath Road North, east for a distance of 30 feet.
MERRICK
SMITH STREET (TH 304/24) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Babylon Turnpike, east for a distance of 35 feet.
CAMP AVENUE (TH 305/24) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Meadowbrook Road, east for a distance of 50 feet.
ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated: August 6, 2024
Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 148528
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the fiscal affairs of the Long Beach City School District, for the period of July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2023 have been examined by the Office of the State Comptroller, and that the report of the examination performed by the Office of the State Comptroller has been filed in my office where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons 148576
LEGAL NOTICE Por la presente se notifica que los asuntos fiscales del Distrito Escolar de la Ciudad de Long Beach, para el período del 1 de julio de 2018 al 30 de junio de 2023, han sido examinados por la Oficina del Contralor del Estado, y que el informe del examen realizado por la Oficina del Contralor del Estado ha sido archivada en mi oficina donde está disponible como registro público para inspección por todas las personas interesadas. 148577
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
SONYMA, Plaintiff AGAINST Elizabeth M. Kiernan aka Liz Kiernan, et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 26, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 24, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 88 Michigan Street, Long Beach, NY 11561. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 58, BLOCK: 99, LOT: 10. Approximate amount of judgment $306,034.75 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #002884/2012. The aforementioned auction
will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (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. 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”. Dominic Villoni, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-047710-F00 82030 148497
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. ELM LIMITED, LLC, Pltf. vs. ANNIE BEST, et al, Defts, Index #606543/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered July 19, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on September 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a Section 59, Block 56, Lots 15-16. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. LISA DANIELS, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021 #101681 148508
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC, -againstBETTY OSEI-MENSAH, 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 January 31, 2018, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC is the Plaintiff and BETTY OSEIMENSAH, 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 10, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 31 BARNES ST, LONG BEACH, NY 11561; and the following tax map identification: 59-223-37 & 214.
Matthew Funez, 21, of N. Centre Avenue in Rockville Centre was arrested on Aug. 12. He has been charged with criminal mischief following an investigation at his residence.
James O’Sullivan, 46, of N. Village Avenue in Rockville Centre was arrested on Aug. 14. He has been charged with burglary and criminal mischief following an investigation on Powell Avenue.
LarCeny
A resident of Lenox Road reported on Aug. 12 that someone stole her vehicle from the parking lot of her apartment building. The vehicle was recovered, unoccupied, in Bethpage later that morning.
An employee of U-Haul reported on Aug. 13 that someone stole a vehicle from the parking lot of the business.
An employee of GMC reported on Aug. 14 that someone took delivery of a vehicle under false pretenses and refused to return the vehicle.
An employee of T-Mobile reported on Aug. 15 a package that was delivered was empty and the contents had been stolen in transit.
A resident of South Centre Avenue reported on Aug. 16, that someone stole her mother’s debit card and withdrew money from a bank account without authorization.
Leaving the sCene of an aCCident
A motorist reported on Aug. 15 that his vehicle was struck by another vehicle while driving on Sunrise Highway. The driver of the second vehicle then fled the scene.
UnUsUaL inCident
A resident of Milburn Street reported on Aug. 15 that an unknown person used her personal information to electronically withdraw money from her bank account.
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
Walking to raise awareness for veterans
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Auxiliary Post 1384, in partnership with the City of Long Beach, will host the Veterans Suicide Awareness and Prevention Walk on Saturday, Sept. 14.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 noon along the Long Beach Boardwalk at Grand Boulevard, near Beach Burger.
The VFW’s mission is to support veterans, their families, and active military personnel. Throughout the year, the VFW and the auxiliary collaborate on various initiatives. Individuals with relatives—whether a father, mother, sister, brother, grandfather, or grandmother— who have served in combat zones are eligible to join the auxiliary and contribute to these vital efforts.
The walk aims to raise awareness
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED; SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY OF LONG BEACH, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold
subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 022937/2009. 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
about veteran suicide, a pressing issue that claims the lives of 22 veterans each day. Participants are encouraged to contribute with a suggested donation of $25, with all proceeds going towards VFW suicide prevention programs. The event also seeks to educate the community about the growing crisis affecting military personnel, driven by factors such as socio-economic challenges, mental illness, PTSD, service-related disabilities, and employment struggles. By shedding light on the difficulties veterans face and supporting suicide prevention efforts, the walk honors those who have served. “They marched for us... we walk for them!”
–Angelina Zingariello
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. 148357
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.
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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
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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
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Save a life: drive above the influence
On 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,
Mwho 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.
AAccording 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.
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.”
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 patterns and behaviors in the U.S.
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.
Karl A. Valere is chief of staff and senior policy adviser of Assemblyman Khaleel M. Anderson. He lives in Baldwin.
Students learn history in English, too
y love of reading and history began when I was about 16. Enrolled in an Advanced Placement English class at my high school, I was blessed to have an amazing teacher who taught me how to make sense of the things I read, and consequently fostered my love of writing. It was around then that I began to develop an understanding of things I could never relate to, of experiences I could never begin to comprehend.
A book, or rather a memoir, that left a lasting impression on me was “Black Boy,” by Richard Wright, published in 1945. It depicts Wright’s upbringing in the South and his eventual move to Chicago, where he embarks on a writing career and becomes involved with the Communist Party of the United States.
It’s a difficult but impressive read that dives into Wright’s honest and poignant depiction of racism in the U.S. It pulls at your heartstrings as you read about the considerable distress that Wright experi-
enced — physically, mentally and emotionally — throughout his early life.
The book was both critically acclaimed and strongly disliked. It has frequently ended up on banned-book lists in schools and libraries in a number of states, with those opposed to it arguing that its raw depiction of racism is worthy of censorship.
An early challenge to the book came in 1972 in Michigan, as parents claimed it was unsuitable for teens. A few years later, it was challenged by schools in Louisiana and Tennessee.
s
ome subject matter should make us uncomfortable, but that’s OK.
It was one of the books that parents of students at Island Trees High School — right here on Long Island — wanted removed from the school’s library in 1975. They characterized “Black Boy” and 10 other books as “antiAmerican, anti-Christian, anti-Semitic, and just plain filthy.”
That, of course, eventually led to a landmark case in the Supreme Court, the first of its kind to consider the right to receive information in a library under the First Amendment. The court’s decision in 1982 was split, leaving the scope of the right unclear even today.
Across the U.S., there have been more
frequent reports in recent years of books being removed from school shelves, many with content that revolves around race, sexual orientation and gender identity. In Florida alone in 2021 and 2022, school districts instituted 357 bans, according to PEN America, the organization that promotes free expression and protects writers and artists.
As a reader, and a huge supporter of public education, I find the subject of book bans tricky.
I think schools set appropriate standards for what students read throughout the course of their education. The content of books they’re assigned often corresponds well with what they’re learning in history classes, thus fostering a well-rounded understanding of a variety of subjects. By the time most students are in late middle school and high school, their brains are developed enough to understand themes, identify imagery and symbolism, and analyze and evaluate ideas they’ve found in texts. No matter how intense a book’s subject, a student should be able to not only make sense of it, but learn from it.
That’s the magic of reading.
When I think about books like “Black
Boy,” and why they’ve resonated with me all these years later, much of it has to do with comfort. Reading about the atrocities of our past is never easy. Simply put: Some subject matter should make us uncomfortable, but that’s OK. It’s through reading that we learn, and how can we ever learn if censorship runs rampant?
The New York State Legislature has fought book bans, introducing legislation that protects a child’s right to read. There have been no fewer than 13 book bans in four school districts, and the issue has played out in school board meetings and social media, even here on Long Island.
Understanding today’s societal and political landscape is tough, but the foundations of the past can help us make sense of it. As students and young people begin to navigate the complexities of society, it is crucial that their freedom to read, and to be exposed to diverse perspectives, is protected.
It is only through understanding our past and confronting uncomfortable truths that we can move toward building a more inclusive, and more informed, future.
Jordan Vallone is a senior editor who writes for the Bellmore, Merrick and East Meadow Heralds. Comments? jvallone@ liherald.com.
KARL A. VALERE
HERALD
HeraLd editoriaL
A relief for Long Island’s senior community
For 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.
JoSIE MARIno Lynbrook
Harris’s
policies will ‘sink this country!’
To the Editor:
In “Momalas for Kamala,” Randi Kreiss listed a few
New Costco policy highlights double standard on ID’s
Costco, the popular warehouse retailer with multiple locations across Long Island, is making a significant change to its membership policy. As of the new update, customers will be required to scan the bar code or QR code associated with their membership cards at store entrances. Additionally, anyone entering a store must be accompanied by a valid member. For those whose membership cards lack a photo, a valid photo ID will also be required.
While this policy aims to enhance security and prevent misuse of Costco memberships, it also underscores a glaring double standard in our societal
debate about identification requirements. It is curious that the same individuals and media who criticize the necessity of showing an ID for voting, claiming it disenfranchises the poor and minorities, seem to accept — if not applaud — the stringent ID checks for entering a Costco.
Requiring voter ID at polling stations can significantly reduce the potential for election fraud by ensuring that every voter is properly identified and eligible to vote. By implementing stringent ID requirements, election authorities can verify that the person casting a ballot is indeed a registered voter, and not someone attempting to vote a number of times or impersonate another voter. t his process helps to maintain the integrity of the electoral system, and ensures that each vote cast is legitimate, thus minimizing opportunities
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!
ROBeRt KRALICK Glen Head
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
for fraudulent activities.
s trict rules at a warehouse retailer, but not at the voting booth?
Moreover, voter ID laws can reinforce public confidence in the electoral process. When citizens know that measures are in place to prevent cheating and maintain accurate voter rolls, they are more likely to trust the outcome of elections and participate in the democratic process. By keeping elections transparent and free from fraud, ID requirements contribute to a fairer, more reliable voting system, which upholds the principles of democracy and ensures that the voice of every legal voter is heard and counted.
t he argument against voter ID laws often hinges on the notion that requiring identification can marginalize those who face challenges in obtaining it. Yet these same critics accept and even support Costco’s decision to enforce stringent ID verification for its
customers.
t his discrepancy raises important questions about consistency and fairness. If we are willing to accept rigorous ID requirements for accessing membership-based services, such as shopping at Costco, should we not also consider the importance of ensuring that every citizen can exercise their fundamental right to vote without having that vote canceled out by the unvetted and the noncitizen, as well as extreme ballot harvesting and ballot dumping?
It is crucial for our public discourse to address these inconsistencies and work toward solutions that do not undermine the rights of lawful individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status. As we navigate these complex issues, let us strive for fairness and equality in all aspects of our public policies. Let the honest voices of our legal citizenry be heard and counted.
Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.
Framework by Joseph Daniel
my exemption is “legitimate,” and that’s not something I should need to worry about.
t he 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. t hat 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.
WILLIAM YOuNGFeRt Franklin Square
One Minion, at least, looks interested in the news — Universal Orlando
