Long Beach Herald 10-10-2024

year since Hamas attack

By BRENDAN CARPENTER bcarpenter@liherald.com

Just over one year ago, the terrorists struck. On Oct. 7, 2023, more than

that day. One second, he was holding his son’s hand. The next, he was gone. Zanerhaft was separated from his son for an hour, and, he said, he could not imagine what the parents who have been separated from family members for a year are

City Councilman John long trip he took to Egypt some years back, while working as an engineer. A driver was assigned to escort him around, and they began to discuss religion. Bendo didn’t know much about the Muslim faith, so he asked questions, and he learned. What he learned, he said, he kept

He learned that Muslims believe in the same prophets of God as in Jews and Christians do. And he realized how similar we all

The event will raise funds for the organization’s mental health and substance-abuse treatment programs. It will begin at 7 p.m., and offer attendees an evening of live music, food and drinks.

“We have a great lineup,” Scott Nigro, chair of Long Island Reach’s board of directors and the

and treatment services to youth and their families throughout Nassau County.” Featured bands include Super Sticktet, led by Long Beach jazz and rock icon Adelson, who will perform alongside blues guitarist Kearney and drummer Frank Bellucci. Also performing are Rossi, a Long Beach favorite, and F.O.G., a local

that they are loved, that we want them to find comfort in the middle of chaos. I want them to hear our voices so that we give them hope.” Zanerhaft recalled taking his family to an amusement park, and one frightening hour

“If we could just remember what my friend, the driver, in Egypt said, that we all pray to the same God, and that we have more common beliefs than we have differences,” Bendo said. “Can’t that be a basis to have a dialogue, and to expand our understanding and empathy, and to bridge the bonds and maybe even eventually foster peace? Don’t we owe it to the children to advocate for a world

Hotel.

Shamrock-and-rollin’

The City of Long Beach celebrated the 35th Irish Day Parade and Festival last Saturday, drawing a festive crowd that filled the West End with green. Story, more photos, Page 3.

At ‘Rock for Recovery’ concert, focus will be on mental health

By ANGElINA ZINGARIEllo azingariello@liherald.com

Long Island Reach, a community-based nonprofit organization, is set to host a “Rock for Recovery and A Little Blues and Jazz Music Festival” on Oct. 17, on the roof of the Allegria Hotel.

The event will raise funds for the organization’s mental health and substance-abuse treatment programs. It will begin at 7 p.m., and offer attendees an evening of live music, food and drinks.

“We have a great lineup,” Scott Nigro, chair of Long Island Reach’s board of directors and the

lead singer of one of the bands, F.O.G., wrote in an email. “We’re really excited to have these great musicians, Steve Adelson, Kerry Kearney, Frank Bellucci and Andy Rossi, as well as my own band, F.O.G., who are donating their time and talents to helping Reach continue in its mission to provide a broad range of rehabilitative and treatment services to youth and their families throughout Nassau County.”

Featured bands include Super Sticktet, led by Long Beach jazz and rock icon Adelson, who will perform alongside blues guitarist Kearney and drummer Frank Bellucci. Also performing are Rossi, a Long Beach favorite, and F.O.G., a local

Reflecting on year since Hamas attack

By BRENDAN CARPENTER bcarpenter@liherald.com

Just over one year ago, the terrorists struck. On Oct. 7, 2023, more than 1,200 men, women and children in Israel were killed at the hands of Hamas. More than 250 people were taken hostage, and many of them are still missing. The attacks set off a year of nonstop conflict.

Communities across the country recognized the sobering anniversary on Monday. In Long Beach, residents of all faiths, local clergy and elected officials gathered at Temple Emanu-El to remember, to mourn and to pray together.

that day. One second, he was holding his son’s hand. The next, he was gone. Zanerhaft was separated from his son for an hour, and, he said, he could not imagine what the parents who have been separated from family members for a year are feeling.

I want them to hear our voices so that we give them hope.

R ABBI JACk ZANERhAFT Temple Emanu-El

“I want to hear God’s voice, but I also want the souls of the hostages who are murdered to hear our voices,” Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft, spiritual leader of the temple, said. “I want them to hear how much we care and that they did not die in vain. I want the families of the hostages to hear our voices, to know that they are supported, that they are loved, that we want them to find comfort in the middle of chaos. I want them to hear our voices so that we give them hope.”

Zanerhaft recalled taking his family to an amusement park, and one frightening hour

City Councilman John Bendo recounted a four-monthlong trip he took to Egypt some years back, while working as an engineer. A driver was assigned to escort him around, and they began to discuss religion. Bendo didn’t know much about the Muslim faith, so he asked questions, and he learned. What he learned, he said, he kept with him.

He learned that Muslims believe in the same prophets of God as in Jews and Christians do. And he realized how similar we all really are.

“If we could just remember what my friend, the driver, in Egypt said, that we all pray to the same God, and that we have more common beliefs than we have differences,” Bendo said. “Can’t that be a basis to have a dialogue, and to expand our understanding and empathy, and to bridge the bonds and maybe even eventually foster peace? Don’t we owe it to the children to advocate for a world

Bob Arkow/Herald

Community Offshore Wind delivers seafood meals

Community Offshore Wind is teaming up with local fisheries and hunger relief organizations to deliver thousands of fresh seafood meals to families in need across Long Island, including Long Beach, this fall.

“Commercial fishing is an important industry for New York’s long-term economic growth, and it is critical that offshore wind developers work closely with fishermen to ensure their projects share the waters off our coast effectively,” Steven Wong, owner of Aqua Best Seafood Market, said. “By working with us to purchase the fish for these donations directly from regional fishermen, Community Offshore Wind has shown that they are serious about supporting the industry and delivering clean energy in a way that will not negatively impact our marine ecosystem.”

The goal is to address food insecurity, affecting over 221,000 residents on Long Island while supporting the local fishing industry. Recently, Community Offshore Wind donated 300 pounds of fresh pollock fillets and 600 cans of clam chowder to Island Harvest Food Bank. In collaboration with Circulo De La Hispanidad, an additional 240 pounds of scup and 120 cans of clam chowder were distributed to Long Beach community members. The seafood provided comes from sustainably harvested sources.

Residents and families in need lined up and were given seafood meals.

“We are pleased to partner with Community Offshore Wind to provide hundreds of pounds of fresh fish to peothat has already provided fresh fish and clam chowder to Brooklyn and New Jersey families. Community Offshore Wind has contributed over 90,000 fresh meals in the past two years.

Community Offshore Wind is trying to building relationships with local fishing communities and is committed to supporting conservation and fisheries. Since 2022, the organization has engaged in various community initiatives, including providing school supplies, books, and

coats for needy families.

For more information about Community Offshore Wind, visit communityoffshorewind.com.

—Angelina Zingariello

Photos courtesy Community Offshore Wind Long Island community members, including in Long Beach, were gifted meals from Community Offshore Wind.

AssAult

A 17-year-old juvenile reported on Oct. 3 that she was struck in the face by another juvenile with a can from an alcoholic beverage while inside Hempstead Lake State Park on Oct. 2 at approximately 10 p.m., while she was in the park after the park was closed to the public and were at a location outside of Rockville Centre Police Department’s jurisdiction. The New York State Park Police have been notified of the incident.

CriminAl misChief

A resident of Atkinson Road reported on Oct. 2 that someone damaged the window of his vehicle while it was parked in the driveway of his residence.

lArCeny

A resident of Old Mill Court reported on Sept. 30 that someone stole his vehicle from the parking lot of his apartment building. The vehicle was recovered, unoccupied, the next day.

A resident of Tarance Street reported on Oct. 1 that someone stole a package from outside his residence.

A resident of Reeve Road reported on Oct. 2 that someone stole property from his vehicle while parked outside his

Integrity and Gratitude

If we had to choose only two concepts as a prescription for a good life, they would be integrity and gratitude. While we usually associate integrity with honesty, the word also means “fits together” as in integrated or integration. Oddly enough, both meanings are also interrelated. When someone is honest, their life tends to “fit together”. It works. As one sage put it, if you’re honest you never have to remember what you said. People who have integrity are consistent. You can count on them. Wikipedia says “the word integrity evolved from the Latin adjective ‘integer’ meaning whole or complete. In this context, integrity is the inner sense of ‘wholeness’ deriving from qualities such as honesty and consistency of character.” If you or someone you know finds their life is “not working” there may be a lack of integrity somewhere that needs to be sought after and rooted out.

Gratitude has to do with appreciation. Appreciation means to add value to. Things that appreciate tend to grow, just as being

grateful for something or someone raises its or their value in our estimation. Even though, at any given time, countless more things are going right than going wrong in most of our lives, too many of us focus more on what’s going wrong and take for granted what’s going right — our health, our loved ones, our resources.

Grateful people tend to be giving people —and giving people are the happiest among us. Takers can never be as happy as givers because takers can never get enough. Givers already have more than enough, which is why they have some to give away. But having enough is not a state of fact, it is a state of mind. Once you can cultivate that state of mind you are on your way to a happy life.

One of the best ways to rewire your brain from focusing on the negative to focusing on the positive, is to keep a “Gratitude Journal”, examples of which may be easily googled. The elusive “holy grail” of being happy can be found by cultivating integrity and gratitude in your life.

residence.

An employee of King Kullen reported on Oct. 3 that someone stole merchandise from the store.

A resident of N. Centre Avenue reported on Oct. 5 that someone stole property from her vehicle while it was parked outside her residence.

A Citibank customer reported on Oct. 5 that someone stole money from his vehicle after withdrawing it from an ATM while his vehicle was parked in Municipal Parking Field No. 1.

unusuAl inCident

A resident of Driscoll Avenue reported on Oct. 1, that an unknown person used his personal information to apply for car insurance.

A juvenile reported on Oct. 3, that while riding her bicycle on Merrick Road, she observed someone running towards her, which caused her to be fearful. The individual continued running past her on Merrick Road as she rode away.

The owner of a Hamilton Road business reported on Oct. 5, someone altered a check that was mailed through the USPS.

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.

Crime Brief

Gia Kharshiladze, 38, of 18th Street, Brooklyn, was arrested by Garden City police on Oct. 2. He has been charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing packages from residences in Nassau County. Investigators allege Kharshiladze stole a package from a home on Andover Road in Rockville Centre, as well as four packages in Garden City on Sept. 10.

Authorities said Old Westbury police stopped Kharshiladze’s 2023 Toyota Prius on Red Ground Road for a cracked windshield. Detectives later connected the

vehicle to multiple package thefts across the county.

The Garden City, Rockville Centre, and Muttontown police departments, along with Nassau County’s second and sixth squads, linked Kharshiladze to thefts at seven other locations.

Kharshiladze was charged with 11 counts of petit larceny. He was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear at First District Court in Hempstead on Oct. 16.

— Daniel Offner

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NASSIR EDWARDS

Elmont Senior Football

A MAJOR PART of Elmont’s run to the Nassau and Long Island boys’ basketball championships last winter, Edwards is also one of the county’s top football wide receivers. Although he didn’t have a catch Sept. 28 in a driving rainstorm against Lynbrook, he did more than his share of damage on the defensive side of the ball. Edwards had a 40-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown and a 70-yard interception return for a score to lead an 18-7 victory.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, Oct. 10

Football: V.S. North at Floral Park 2 p.m.

Football: MacArthur at Carey 2:15 p.m.

Football: Jericho at Mepham 2:15 p.m.

Football: Sewanhaka at Calhoun 2:15 p.m.

Football: South Side at Garden City 3 p.m.

Football: Plainedge at Wantagh 3 p.m.

Football: Kennedy at Lynbrook 4:30 p.m.

Football: New Hyde Park at Long Beach 4:30 p.m.

Football: Roosevelt at Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

Football: Malverne at Lawrence 4:30 p.m.

Football: East Meadow at Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Hicksville at Freeport 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Lawrence at Plainedge 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Syosset at Uniondale 5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Oceanside at MacArthur 5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Malv/East Rockaway at Lynbrook 5:30 p.m.

Football: Elmont at Manhasset 6:30 p.m.

Football: Herricks at V.S. Central 6:45 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Seaford at Plainedge 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Wantagh at Long Beach 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Mepham at Lynbrook 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Mineola at South Side 6:45 p.m.

Boys Volleyball: Calhoun at Roslyn 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Plainedge at MacArthur 6:45 p.m.

Football: East Rockaway at Island Trees 7 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

Long Beach continues resurgence

By BRIAN KACHARABA sports@liherald.com

Two years ago, the Long Beach boys’ volleyball team failed to win a single set during a winless season. This fall, under the guidance of a championship-winning coach, they find themselves contending for a playoff spot.

The Marines (6-3) posted three straight-set wins during their four-game winning streak to end September, which was also highlighted by a victory at Mepham on the 21st in which they battled back from an 0-2 deficit. The run was halted by a tough fiveset loss to first-place Levittown District on Oct. 5, but still sit fourth in a competitive Conference B with seven games remaining entering this week.

Stewart Ratzken, a former Long Beach volleyball player who guided the Lynbrook girls’ team to a county title in 2014, took over a group that improved to 5-9 last season. He and assistant coach Jaden Garelle watched film to prepare for the season and they introduced themselves by taking the boys to the nearby beach for offseason training.

“I watched a lot of tape from Long Beach last year and I thought, and I don’t want to insult any coach, there were quick, easy fixes to score points, and we certainly cleaned that up,” Ratzken said. “[This season] is not surprising me, though.”

Long Beach was especially competitive against the upperechelon teams in the conference by beating Levittown in the season opener and taking a 2-1 on Oceanside before losing in five sets on Sept. 12.

Both of those schools are now 8-2 in the division.

“We try to balance the rotation as much as we can and I‘ve got a lot of young kids on the court and I’m like, ‘Wow, I have them for three years’, so this program is going to be pretty amazing,” Ratzken said.

Long Beach is led by the 1-2 punch of seniors Brody Schuh (126 kills) and Brian Cash (98). Both had a seasonhigh 22 kills in the Mepham victory and middle starter Schuh also leads the team in blocks with 26.

“Brian Cash hits like a D1 college kid when he’s on,” Ratzken said. “Brody’s an excellent basketball player and volleyball player and these guys, their jump reaches like 10-7, 10-8, so they’re a force to be reckoned with.”

Setter Hayden Lipinski completes the senior triumvirate with 230 assists and Ratzken lauded him for his court IQ and ball distribution. Lipinski’s 25 aces ties him for the team lead with junior Logan Puzack and his 79 digs are five behind Puzack.

Sophomore Sean O’Malley made a strong contribution with 33 kills and 22 blocks as did senior Jack Passman, who has 20 kills, 52 digs, and 12 aces. Sophomore libero Sebastian Ling and junior Danilo Cuba have been defensive stalwarts with a combined 92 digs.

Senior Jake Fackler (52 assists) brings depth at setter and sophomores Zack Brymer, Gavin Corrigan, and Kasper Yanowitch are all talented up and comers.

The Marines visit Uniondale on Oct. 14 and Freeport three days later. Those schools have a combined four wins this season.

Justine Stefanelli/Herald Senior middle hitter Brody Schuh leads the Marines in kills with 126 and blocks with 39 through the first nine matches.

BROWN “Ari” Re-Elect Eric

New York ate ASSEMBLY

• FIXING the “Cashless Bail” Laws

• SUPPORTING the Police

• ENDING anti-Semitism and Hate Crimes

• SAYING “NO” to a “Sanctuary County” in Nassau

• STOPPING the Commuter Tax (Congestion Pricing) Permanently

New York ate A embly

Abrahams returns for town special election

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Former county legislator Kevan Abrahams is returning to politics to help make the Town of Hempstead an affordable place to live for generations both young and old.

Abrahams, 50, retired last year from the Nassau County Legislature after a 21-year run. Throughout his time serving District 1, Abrahams, a Freeport resident, said he helped restore financial stability to the county. His time in Nassau politics focused on making sure parks and communities were safe, along with maintaining roads.

“I’m happy to say, during my time in the Legislature, I probably have done well over $200, $250 million in road projects,” Abrahams told the Herald during a Roundtable interview.

Now Abrahams is running as a Democrat in the special election for the seat in the town’s 5th Councilmanic District. The seat was previously occupied by Chris Carini, who died unexpectedly in July, at age 49.

For Abrahams, getting back into politics was an obvious choice. “Why I want to get involved is that I still see the needs and the issues that are confronting town residents,” he said. “They’re still there.”

His main priority is affordability. It has become a struggle to live in the town, he said, and it doesn’t offer enough opportunities for affordable housing for young people.

“My whole message, in terms of running for the town council, is tied to affordability,” he said. “Not just for that young family or that young person that’s looking for that affordable housing. It’s also for families that are middle-aged, that are struggling to pay the taxes and the fees that keep being increased by the Town of Hempstead.”

When Abrahams announced his bid for office in

Brendan Carpenter/Herald

Kevan Abrahams, former Nassau County legislator, is running in the special election for the Town of Hempstead’s 5th Councilmanic District, and focusing on the affordability of living in the town, among other issues.

August, he expressed concerns about the town’s recent $2 million tax levy increase and rising fees for essential services. He criticized the fee hikes, noting that they affect everything from pool passes to parking permits and sports leagues, and argued that taxpayers are unfairly shouldering the burden of the town’s fiscal mismanagement.

Discussing infrastructure, Abrahams highlighted past efforts to mitigate flooding in Freeport, referencing a $7 million project to fund a flood plan on Guy

Lombardo Avenue. It’s important, he said, to ensure that town roads are properly maintained, especially when it comes to water flowing into catch basins. He added that addressing infrastructure is crucial to prevent disrepair and to manage excess water on the streets.

Quality of life, Abrahams said, is essential for residents, and he wants to make sure the town has proper services, whether roads, police stations or parks. He emphasized the need for careful oversight when it comes to fiscal decisions, particularly those that impact residents.

“I think there needs to be an alternative voice there that’s going to scrutinize, before any tax increase happens, before any housing project happens, before any fee is increased, that we are looking to figure out how this benefits the residents of the town of Hempstead and lowers their costs,” he said.

Throughout his campaign, Abrahams wants voters to know that he plans to be a councilman for everyone, and looks to help people find the resources they need to resolve any issues, whether related to schools, businesses or villages.

“We’re at a moment in this country where everything is going up,” Abrahams said. “We’ve seen inflation impact things, and that’s impacting our residents. And at the same time, we cannot have a blind eye to what we do in the town, in regards to the increasing of taxes or park fees or anything along those lines. We have to lessen the burden, not add to it.”

Schneider is looking to keep his board seat

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

For over two decades, Chris Schneider has given back to his community. Now, as a newly appointed Town of Hempstead Councilman, he wants to continue serving people in the 5th Councilmanic District. Schneider, 44, of Seaford, is a graduate of Wantagh High School, and began his journey in government in 2002, when he became a legislative assistant in the Nassau County Legislature. Two years later, he began working in the State Senate, and served under former Senators Charles Fuschillo and Elaine Philips, and current Sen. Jack Martins, until 2017.

After those years in government, Schneider worked in a senior leadership role for the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

At an Aug. 6 Town Board meeting, Schneider was unanimously appointed councilman for the 5th District, filling the seat of his late friend Chris Carini.

For Schneider, his new responsibilities are another way for him to get involved in public service, and he is looking to win the special election in November and start a full term next year.

“The thing that really appealed to me the most about this is it just gives me another way to take that service and giving back to another level,” Schneider said of his appointment, “and it’s been really exciting so far.”

Taking on the job, however, he said, was bittersweet, because Carini, a Seaford resident, was a close friend for years. Schneider served on the Wantagh/ Seaford Homeowners Association board for 20 years, which Carini was also involved with. Prior to his

appointment to the Town Board, Schneider was Seaford vice president of the association.

“One of the things that makes this extra special for me is being able to carry on the work that (Carini) was so passionate about,” Schneider said, “because we shared a lot of the same passions in terms of different issues.”

One of Carini’s legacies that Schneider supports is the town’s Quality of Life Task Force, which removes illegal ads and graffiti and cleans up litter throughout the town. Schneider looks to expand and enhance the task force if he elected.

“When you start seeing things like graffiti and vandalism and signs and zombie homes, it has a negative impact on the community,” he said, “and I think taking care of that stuff, to preserve our quality of life and being aggressive with it, is important.”

Schneider has also represented Seaford on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Community Council since 2022, and has served on the 5th District Graffiti Watch Task Force. Working hand in hand with police, he said, is important, because it includes making sure law enforcement is aware of community concerns, such as school safety and illegal smoke shops.

When it comes to affordability, Schneider said the town has done a good job of being fiscally responsible while balancing the needs of taxpayers. The town is continually trying to do more with less, he added, despite the rising cost of living, materials and gas.

“I fully support any kind of efforts to do more with less and be fiscally responsible,” he said.

Schneider said he would prioritize communication as councilman. To serve his district, he noted that he has spoken with civic leaders in his community, as

councilman for the 5th District,

seat

a special election next month. He wants to keep up the work of the Quality of Life Task Force.

well as local fire departments, clergy members and American Legion groups.

“We’re happy to work with you however we can,” he said. “I think it’s important that people know where to turn, and I’m accessible if they have a problem.”

Brendan Carpenter/Herald

Chris Schneider, newly appointed Town of Hempstead

aims to keep his

in

“The

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown

Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project. psegliny.com/EcoDev

Gathering to mark a somber anniversary

where they can grow up without fear, where they can live side by side in harmony, regardless of their backgrounds? For me, I think that is a responsibility we all must share.”

Sam Pinto, president of the Long Beach Board of Education and a member of the city Fire Department, spoke about his nephew, who graduated from Long Beach High School and is now serving in the Israel Defense Forces. Pinto’s brother was visiting Israel last Oct. 7, and was at a family event with his son — Pinto’s nephew.

The nephew lives in a kibbutz, and the one next to it was ransacked. Some of the other residents of his nephew’s kibbutz were on a bike ride, and saw the threat coming their way. They managed to set up a security perimeter to protect the kibbutz.

Pinto’s nephew was subsequently called in to be part of a search-and-rescue team, looking for hostages near Israel’s border with Lebanon. Pinto had the chance to speak to his nephew, and was taken aback — positively — by what he was doing to help.

“We’re rescuing the Palestinians,” his nephew told him. “We’re rescuing the Palestinians from Hamas. There are people there that that want to go into Israel, that want to be rescued, want to be saved, and we’re pulling them out.”

His nephew did that for a few weeks. Then, a few days ago, a drone strike exploded at an Israeli army base. Pinto’s nephew was OK, but two friends he was serving with were killed.

“It’s bittersweet,” Pinto said. “You’re upset because people lost their lives,

Community members, clergy and elected officials gathered at temple emanu-el on monday night to mark

but you have a sense of relief that your family’s safe. We’re all now praying for miracles. We’re praying for the safe return of the hostages. We’re praying for the safe return of all these soldiers and all the people who were relocated. We’re praying for peace.”

Bishop Mark Moses, of the New Life

Church of Christ, spoke of love, unity and peace.

“We stand together united, because an attack on any group is an attack on every group,” Moses said. “Sam talked about his nephew, and that he was surprised at first that his nephew had to go in and bring Palestinians over. That

came from love. Because Israel is a nation of love. And even in war, they still show love.”

The night ended with the entire congregation — people of different backgrounds, careers and beliefs — singing the Israeli national anthem.

Skye Margies/Herald photos

the anniversary of oct. 7.

Sam pinto spoke of his personal connection to israel — his nephew, who serves in the israel defense forces.

rabbi Jack Zanerhaft led the interfaith service, inviting all religions, beliefs and faiths to unite.

Bishop mark moses, of new Life Church of Christ, spoke of the need for unity.

News briefs

Long Beach’s Fall Festival will be back this weekend, decorating Kennedy Plaza in fall styles.

Fall Festival on tap for weekend

Long Beach’s 26th annual Fall Festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 12 and 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Kennedy Plaza. All are invited to attend this family friendly Long Beach tradition and to stroll through Kennedy Plaza taking in the sights, sounds and smells of autumn. The event offers something for everyone.

The weekend’s centerpiece is the pumpkin patch filled with thousands of pumpkins waiting to be picked. A pumpkin bounce house, carousel, hay wagon ride, and swinging chairs are just some of the fun-filled kids activities returning this year. The children’s activity tent will also return featuring fall related craft projects.

The Ferris wheel with majestic views of the beach and bay are a must.

At noon on Sunday, children in costumes will parade from the Recreation Center to Kennedy Plaza. Awards for best costumes and other categories will be given and each child in costume will receive special treats.

There is plenty for adults too. Over 40 vendors will line the plaza offering everything from pies and fresh cut flowers to jewelry and home décor. Those 21 and over are invited to visit the Food & Wine Tent for wine tastings presented by Beach Liquors. Modestly priced samplings from local restaurants will take place in the Food and Wine Tent. An array of food vendors will also be on hand offering international fare along the plaza.

Admission is free for the public, but each attraction costs $4.

ANNIVERSARY

Bands set to unite for a cause at Allegria

classic rock band.

night filled with fun, rock ’n’ roll, blues and jazz tunes.

Tickets for the event are $100, which includes admission, food and beverages, with all proceeds going to support the organization’s services for those impacted by substance abuse and mental health challenges. Information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the event — as well as donations, for those who can’t attend — is available at Long Island Reach’s website, longislandreach. org.

Scott Nigro Chair, L.I. Reach board of directors and lead singer of F.O.G.

“Our idea was pretty simple: to bring the community together to ‘rock out’ for recovery,” Nigro, a Long Beach attorney and a former City Council member, said. “A special night filled with fun, rock ’n’ roll, blues and jazz tunes that everyone will know, all to aid Reach’s mission to build healthy lifestyles through substance abuse and mental health counseling.”

Long Island Reach was founded in 1970, and inthe decades since has grown

music groups will be coming together at the allegria Hotel in Long Beach to play a rock for recovery concert to support mental health and addiction services.

into a multi-service agency that offers a wide range of rehabilitative and treatment services for young people and their families. With main offices in Long Beach and satellite offices in Franklin Square and Port Washington, the group offers outpatient chemical dependency

and mental health treatment, counseling, an alternative education program and juvenile justice projects. It helps people of all ages manage issues like depression and anxiety as well.

According to its website, every two days, three Long Islanders die of drug

overdoses.

The organization coordinates juvenile justice projects witih its Court Liaison Unit and Reach for Peace, which support young people in the legal system, focusing on rehabilitation and helping them avoid future legal problems.

Its alternative education program takes place at the Harriet Eisman Community School, an alternative high school in Long Beach named after a former Long island Reach executive director. It helps students who have struggled in traditional schools earn high school diplomas, offering both academic and emotional support.

Additionally, an adolescent pregnancy-prevention and services program provides education and resources for young mothers before and after childbirth, helping them navigate the challenges of pregnancy and early motherhood.

Reach’s fees are based on the services provided, with a sliding scale to ensure affordability for those of all income levels. No one is refused services due to inability to pay, and insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, is accepted.

For more information on the Rock for Recovery event, to purchase tickets, or to explore sponsorship options, visit longislandreach.org/rock-for-recovery, or call (516) 889-2332.

Herald File Photo

Musicians come together for a day of jazz

The second annual Blues and Jazz Weekend in Long Beach drew enthusiastic audiences for three days of performances at the Long Beach Public Library and Roc and Olive Restaurant.

Organized by Artists in Partnership, Inc. in collaboration with the Long Beach Public Library, the event featured a diverse lineup of local, national, and internationally recognized musicians, showcasing a wide range of blues and jazz genres, Sept. 27-29.

The weekend began Friday evening

with a performance by the Katie Mitchell Band, joined by vocalists Jenny Rubin, Brittany Devarso, and Cat Parr. The group performed a set titled “Ladies Sing the Blues and Jazz” to a packed house.

On Saturday evening, Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton, a multi-instrumentalist known for playing many instruments including the guitar, banjo, piano, harmonica, and fiddle, delivered a performance that highlighted different styles of Black American music. His interpretations of blues, ragtime, old-time, and Cajun music were complemented by stories about his ancestry, as well as the historical roots of these musical traditions.

Sunday afternoon featured a performance by jazz and blues vocalist Rahsaan Cruse and his trio. The group showcased a combination of new compositions and classic jazz and blues tunes. The afternoon was capped by special guest, Grammy-nominated artist Guy Davis, who brought a mix of roots, blues, folk, rock, rap, spoken word, and world music to the stage. Davis touched on historical themes and personal experiences.

“At times one could

observe tears in the eyes of audience members,” Johanna Mathieson, Executive Director of AIP, said. “At other times the room filled with uproarious laughter and the recognition that, as human beings, ‘we’ve all been there,’ at some level and capacity.”

The weekend wrapped up with a blues jam at Roc and Olive Restaurant, headlined by Ben Metzger, a musician, songwriter, educator, producer, and founder of Studio Noir Music. Fellow musicians and vocalists joined Metzger for the event’s

annual jam session. Steve Adelson, founder of the Long Beach Jazz Festival and a Chapman Stick musician, also performed.

Despite the undesirable weather, the event had a groovy atmosphere. Plans for next year’s Blues and Jazz Weekend are already in progress.

For more information about AIP and opportunities to get involved, visit aip4arts.org.

— Angelina Zingariello

Curing a rare heart disorder with a short life expectancy.

Performing a life-changing brain surgery without a single incision.

Helping a new mom give birth—and receive a new liver.

At Northwell’s North Shore University Hospital, the nation’s most brilliant minds come here to conquer health care’s greatest challenges. So that whatever comes through our doors: challenge accepted.

North Shore University Hospital

Photos courtesy Johanna Mathieson Musicians flooded the stage for the second annual Blues and Jazz Weekend.

Ben Metzger, of Studio Noir, rocked out with his fellow music makers.

Honoring Long Island’s best in health care

By Melissa Berman

Health care professionals traded their scrubs and lab coats for suits and cocktail dresses at the third annual Herald Excellence in Healthcare Awards at the Heritage Club, in Bethpage, on Sept. 18, which honored the best in their field.

The event, organized by the RichnerLIVE team at the Long Island Herald, drew more than 300 attendees, and recognized more than 10 health care professions.

“Tonight is not only a celebration of achievement, but also a sincere expression of gratitude to those who tirelessly safeguard the health and well being of our community,” Amy Amato, Richner Communications’ executive director of corporate relations and events, said. “Your dedication, resilience and passion are truly inspiring.”

Awards were presented to 46 health professionals, including three special honors: Distinguished Visionary, Organization of Excellence and Excellence in Nursing Advocacy.

“From dedicated doctors and nurses to visionary hospital executives and inspiring educators, these honorees are the backbone of our communities’ health,” Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications, said.

Michelle Ballan, of the Stony Brook University Health Sciences Center, who received an Excellence in Healthcare award, expressed her gratitude for being recognized for her hard work.

“It’s a tremendous honor to be here and to be celebrated, because I’m just a liaison for individuals with disabilities to eradicate and minimize the health care disparities that exist in different settings,” Ballan said. “To be honored for the health care award, it’s really just an extension of the work that my team does for individuals with disabilities, who are the true experts.”

Having worked in the home care field for 20 years, Joseph Verdirame, CEO of Alliance Homecare/TrustHouse, has learned that there are no shortcuts, and you need to provide exceptional care for the patient, he said.

“We’ve spent a lot of time building and developing our business model to really enhance the way home care is provided in the industry,” Verdirame, who also won the Excellence in Healthcare award, said. “We’re very proud of what we’ve accomplished today for all the work we’ve put in.”

According to Luis Fandos, of Alluring Age: Anti-Aging and Wellness Center, who won an Excellence in Healthcare award, it was a dream come true to be honored, and he finally feels that all the effort, sweat and tears he put into his work has come to fruition.

“When you have other people recognize what you do, and appreciate that, it’s priceless,” Fandos said.

The keynote speaker was Stanley M. Bergman, chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Henry Schein and the winner of the Distinguished Visionary Award. “Health care is local, and it is critical that we maintain an outstanding quality of health care system here on Long Island,” Bergman said, and

told the crowd, “Thank you for what you do, being amongst the nation’s best health care systems.”

The major sponsors of the awards included Alliance Homecare, Henry Schein, Nassau University Medical Center, the New York State Nurses Association, Northwell Orthopedics, Stony Brook Medicine, The Aspen Group and Trusthouse.

Muriel Donnelly, VP of PR at Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, with Stuart Richner of Richner Communications.

Honoree Jennifer Lazzaro, of Hearing and Brain Centers of America, Long Island.

Honoree Denis Nankervis, of Peconic Bay Medical Center Northwell Health.

Honoree Dr. Howard Goodman, the Long Island Weight Loss Doctor, with Jessica Kleiman of the Long Island Herald.

Jason Thomas/Herald photos

Honoree Michelle Ballan, of Stony Brook University Health Sciences Center, with her family and friends.

Jason Thomas/Herald photos

Honoree John McGuigan, of AHRC Suffolk, right, with Stuart Richner.

Honoree Dr. Brian Mayrsohn, of Maywell Health.

Dr. Jill Kaman, of the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.

Keynote and Distinguished Visionary recipient Stanley Bergman, of Henry Schein.

Honorees Roxanne Carfora, of AgelessMD, and Dr. Luis Fandos, of Alluring Age: Anti-Aging and Wellness Center.

Honorees from Aspen Dental, Lina Patino, DDS, and Roumiana Tzvetkova, DMD.

Honoree Megan C. Ryan, of Nassau University Medical Center.

Honoree Catherine Canadeo, center, of Catherine Canadeo Health & Wellness Corp.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Dr. Todd J. Cohen, of New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Melissa Schachter, of the Speech Language Place.

Hollywood Health Club awards its first three-year membership

Hollywood Health Club has announced its first winner of a threeyear Hollywood membership for the Long Beach senior who has excelled academically, athletically and has donated their time to the community or the school.

Aysu Unver, a Long Beach High School senior, has a 3.9 GPA in all honor classes, is fluent in Turkish and Spanish, and has received the student athlete

award each school year. She has excelled on the LB Soccer team as co-captain and has been named all-county twice. She has coached LB adolescents for the past four years and will be playing D-1 soccer at Rider University next fall.

Applications for the remaining 4 scholarships can be submitted by email to sd@hollywoodhealthclub.com by parents, teachers, or coaches.

Herald file photo

Hollywood Health Club has announced its first winner of a three-year membership: Aysu Unver.

STEPPING OUT

Fl!ppin’ out at the circus

It’s all a thrill with daredevils under the Big Top

By Danielle Schwab

The Big Top has sprung up on Long Island once again for a Fl!p Circus spectacular that brings audiences up close to the action.

The circus spectacle, which wowed audiences here earlier in the spring, brings its intimate Big Top experience back, now through Oct. 15, to Hicksville’s Broadway Commons.

Fl!p Circus was started by the Vazquez family, a long line of circus performers dating back over 50 years. Its older counterpart, the Circus Vazquez, originated in Mexico City in 1969 and has since ventured to the U.S.

While Circus Vazquez has one of the largest tents in America, Fl!p Circus has one of the smallest with around 800 seats. It brings a refreshing, more intimate look at the circus experience with no seat more than 50 feet from the ring.

“It makes it very different and very unique. We wanted to create a show that appealed more to the traditional side of the circus,” says Alexa Vazquez, a fourth-generation performer.

“The seats are made for a 360-degree view, so wherever

• Now through Oct. 15

• Weekdays, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 1 and 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m.

• Tickets start at $50 adult, $30 children; available at flipcircus.com or can be purchased in person at box office

• Broadway Commons, 358 N. Broadway, Hicksville

you’re sitting, you’re getting the best view. You feel like a part of the performance,” she continues.

Training since she was 15, Vazquez showcases her acrobatic skills in her mesmerizing Hula Hoop gymnastics act. She weaves various hoops together simultaneously, including a giant hoop, the Cyr Wheel.

“It’s something where, if you lose concentration very quickly, it can go very wrong,” Vazquez explains.

“But at the same time it’s fun because people see a gigantic wheel, but then they see a smaller one. It’s confusing for them, but fun at the same time.”

Fl!p Circus takes traditional acts and gives them a contemporary twist with — in the grand circus tradition — an international flair. Jugglers, trapeze artists and daredevils from throughout the world — including Brazil, India, Chile, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and the U.S. — live and travel together from location to location.

That global flavor is led by Brazil’s favorite clown, Bubi Guiner, who brings his classic comedic routines and side-splitting antics to the U.S. for the first time. He may even invite you on stage as part of the show.

From India, watch as Hasan Ansari thrills audiences with his flexibility, performing body-bending maneuvers on a wooden pole, leaving you wondering how a human body can do that. Ukraine’s Anastasia & Misha present a stunningly synchronized and poetic presentation of dance and acrobatics. Also Pavel Valla Bertini, a fifth-generation performer from the Czech Republic, keeps everyone on the edge of their seats

with his unparalleled one, three and even 15-wheeled unicycle skills.

Others delight audiences with their fast-paced juggling skills, energetic roller skating feats, graceful dancing and acrobatics.

There’s always something new to enjoy, no matter how many times you go, according to Vasquez.

“Every year that it comes to town, you’re going to see a different show,” she says.

Every act brings a different culture to the stage. Each is accompanied by a special musical score, played by the Fl!p Circus Band. The versatile soundtrack ranges from classic instrumental to upbeat rock.

“I always like to say, with Flip to expect the unexpected,” says Vazquez. “As you walk into the stands — (with) the music, the lights, and the way the atmosphere is set — you’re inside a different world, and it’s something that you have to experience yourself.”

And, of course, there’s an assortment of tasty circus treats to munch on from the concession stand.

Capturing over 200 years of circus tradition into high-energy show, Fl!p Circus invites everyone to immerse themselves in the experience.

“We just want the audience to enjoy the show, and we want them to be transformed into what we’re doing,” says Vasquez. “We want the audience, when they come in, to feel welcome, to feel like they’re a part of the family.”

Tom Colicchio on ‘why he cooks’

Get an unprecedented insights into the life of one of America’s top chefs when Tom Colicchio brings his “Why I Cook” book tour to the Paramount stage. Part memoir-part cookbook, Colicchio’s newest book shares an exclusive look inside the mind and kitchen of the beloved multiple-Awardwinning chef, restaurateur, and television personality. Colicchio cooked his first recipe at 13-yearsold — a stuffed eggplant from an issue of Cuisine magazine that he picked up out of boredom — and it changed his life. Through 10 memoir chapters and 60 recipes, “Why I Cook” shares Colicchio’s personal reflections of more than 40 years behind the stove. From pre-dawn fishing excursions with his grandfather to running the flat-top at the snack shack of the local swim club, to finding his way as a young chef in New York City, into Tom’s life yet.

Saturday, Oct. 12, 2 p.m.$95, $65, $54, $35. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Anthony Pascal and Anthony Rapp

Get ready to be swept away with Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, the original stars of “Rent.” Their enduring friendship, spanning three decades, forms the heart and soul of this duo show, promising an evening filled with music, anecdotes and laughter. Pascal and Rapp’s friendship and history create an unforgettable evening of music, stories and fun. Expect songs from highlights throughout their careers, music that has influenced their lives, and of course some of the iconic hits from where it all began — meeting on the stage of “Rent.” Jonathan Larson’s iconic show, remains an international phenomenon, contuing a trajectory that began with it’s Off-Broadway opening all those years ago.

Thursday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. $69, $64, $54. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Visit landmarkonmainstreet.org for tickets and information, or call (516) 7676444.

Photos courtesy Fl!p Circus Modern yet vintage describes the Fl!p Circus experience.

THE Your Neighborhood

Oct. 19

Steve Martin and Martin Short

Icons, collaborators and dos amigos Steve Martin and Martin Short have a relationship that’s evolved in unexpected ways since their SNL days. Their comic prowess has surely reached new heights since their involvement in Hulu’s smash hit “Only Murders in the Building.” The pair takes another comic turn as special guest performers at Tilles Center’s 2024 Gala, Saturday, oct. 19, 8:30 p.m. These two funnyman display their impeccable talents as “The Dukes of Funnytown!” — a show that redefines the form in unexpected and profound ways, from two of the most influential and acclaimed talents of the past century. Their humor is often subversive, but it is always a joyous self-deprecating romp from two comedy masters driven to make each other laugh as much as the audience. The jokes come at you at a rapid-fire pace with little set-up and big punch lines as they mock Hollywood and the fickle nature of celebrity, but the comedy truly soars when they lovingly (and relentlessly) roast each other. Martin and Short’s chemistry and timing on stage reflects a friendship forged over three decades which developed when they met for the first time on the set of the 1986 film “Three Amigos.” These two titans of comedy have been touring together since 2015, when they launched their first live show entitled “A Very Stupid Conversation.” Tickets start at $70. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

‘The Birthday Party’ Looking for something to do this Halloween season that isn’t just for kids? Visit Sands Point Preserve for an exclusive, immersive theatrical production, “The Birthday Party,” held in a secluded, opulent mansion, Saturday, oct. 12, 7-8:30 p.m. and 9-10:30 p.m.; also oct. 18-19, oct. 25, oct. 31, and Nov. 1. For those who attended Archie’s last “Birthday Party,” rest assured, there are new surprises in store. Guests will be blindfolded and escorted to a secret location on the porperty, Villa Vanitas, to celebrate the enigmatic Lord Archibald Axel Von Finkelshorn Chatterton’s 30th birthday. He is a witless charmer on the cusp of a life-changing revelation, and everyone’s invited to witness his journey on a night that promises to be unforgettable and delightfully unpredictable. Cocktail attire preferred. $175 per person. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.

Spooky Fest is back

A Halloween experience not to be missed, Spooky Fest is an outdoor adventure perfect for families, whether you want to be scared — or prefer seasonal fun of the non-scary kind. Join in the fun at the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout October. Along the way in the updated and beautifully lit up Enchanted Walk you will see dinosaurs, aliens and friendly witches, costumed characters and more, including the Mystical Garden. Get your fortune told, make a craft and dance with the Halloween DJ, along with face painting and the Amazing Glow tent. For those who want a scare, venture into the Haunted Woods, where zombies and dinosaurs hang out. Admission starts at $22. 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre. Visit CSTL.org for call (516) 7640045 for more information.

Adelphi’s Best of Broadway: Decades Jump into the dazzling world of Broadway as Adelphi’s talented students bring to life the magic of shows that opened 10, 20, 30 or more years ago, Sunday, Oct. 20, 4 p.m. Enjoy modern and classic Broadway hits from shows like “Suffs” (2024); “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” (2014); “Sunday in the Park with George” (1984) and “Anything Goes” (1934). Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

Rock for Recovery

Long Island Reach hosts a “Rock for Recovery” music festival, Thursday, Oct. 17, starting at 7 p.m., at the Allegria Hotel. $100 per person, includes food and an open bar. 80 W. Broadway. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit LongIslandReach.org.

Fall Festival

Enjoy the annual Fall Festival at Kennedy Plaza, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 12-13, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. All are invited to attend this family friendly Long Beach tradition and to stroll through Kennedy Plaza taking in the sights, sounds and smells of autumn. The event offers something for everyone! The weekend’s centerpiece is the pumpkin patch filled with thousands of pumpkins waiting to be picked. 1 W Chester Street. Admission to the festival is free to the public. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov.

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.

Having an event?

Walk for Apraxia

Apraxia Kids holds its 2024 Walk for Apraxia, Saturday, Oct. 19. The walk starts at the Allegria Hotel and boardwalk. Check in is at 10 a.m., the ceremony begins at 11 a.m. 80 W. Broadway. For more information or to register, visit Apraxia-Kids. org.

Halloween Costume Parade

The City of Long Beach Department of Parks and Recreation invites families to the Annual Kids Halloween Costume Parade, Saturday, Oct. 12, at noon. The costume parade, in existence for almost 50 years, is an enjoyable event for children to dress in their favorite costume and parade from the recreation center to Kennedy Plaza. Awards for best costumes and other categories will be given and each child in costume will receive special treats. 1 W. Chester Street. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov.

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.

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.

City Council Meeting

Long Beach City Council holds its bi-weekly meeting, Tuesday, Oct. 15, 7 p.m. The meeting will be held on the sixth floor of City Hall and will be streamed on the city’s YouTube channel. For more information, visit LongBeachNY. gov.

Waterfront Warriors Fundraiser

Long Beach Waterfront Warriors hosts its 17th annual Fundraiser at The Inn, Saturday, Oct. 19, 4-7 p.m. With entertainment by Shattered, along with an open bar, passed appetizers, raffles and a 50/50. For tickets, visit TheInnLBNY.com or call (516) 432-9220.

Oct.

20

Posh Pets Charity Event

Posh Pets invites all to their Posh-a-thon charity event, in Kennedy Plaza, Sunday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For additional information, visit PoshPetsRescueNY.org

Juxtaposition Art Show Reception

Magnolia Senior Center hosts a reception to meet the artists involved with the Juxtaposition show, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 5-7 p.m. The exhibit is on view through Oct. 30. 650 Magnolia Blvd. For more information, visit LongBeachNY.gov.

Tribute concert

Plaza Theatricals’ tribute series continues, Sunday, Oct 20, 2:30 p.m., with Shades of Grey. From his bestremembered role as the iconic Master of Ceremonies in “Cabaret,”both on Broadway and in the film version, to his more recent portrayal as the Wizard of Oz in “Wicked,” Joel Grey continues to entertain audiences of all ages. And now, continuing his own tradition of creating unique and memorable performances, Bob Spiotto takes to the boards once again, in both story and song, to educate and entertain, as he pays tribute to this legendary performer. See the concert at 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $40, $35 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET INVESTMENT LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE PASSTH5ROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-BNC3, Plaintiff, Against LYDIA LAMOUTH, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 04/03/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 11/7/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 159 E Chester St, Long Beach, New York 11561, And Described As Follows: 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. Section 59 Block 108 Lot 65, 66, And 67. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $477,177.88 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 607220/2017

Brian Davis, Esq., Referee. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 9/9/24 File Number: 560-2175 SH 149318

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHMAPION MORTGAGE COMPANY, Plaintiff, Against JUANITA SLADE, JOSEPH DAMBRA, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/22/2016, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 10/24/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 28 East Hudson Street, Long Beach, New York 11561, A.K.A. 28 Hudson Street, Long Beach, New York 11561, And Described As Follows:

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 Section 59 Block 94 Lot 17, 18 And 19. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $495,395.75 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 13-014225

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Scott H Siller, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 8/16/24 File Number: 548-0119 SH 149034

Riding Long Beach waves

UnSound Surf Competition takes to the ocean

The annual UnSound Professional Surf Competition took place in the Long Beach waters late last month, drawing out skilled wave riders for an eventful day.

There were many surfers showcasing their skills. Surfers of various ages had the chance to show what they can do,

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION (“FANNIE MAE”), Plaintiff, Against RAMJEET RAMJATTAN, SANIETTA MOHESS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/08/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 10/23/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 517 Laurelton Boulevard, Long Beach, New York 11561, And Described As Follows: 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. Section 59 Block 44 Lot 137 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $516,115.18 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 15199/12 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Michael Alpert, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 8/16/24 File Number: 560-6190 SH 149032

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff, vs. DONOVAN CAMPBELL, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 6, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 28, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 22 East Hudson Street A/K/A 22 Hudson Street, Long Beach, NY 11561. 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, Section 59, Block 94 and Lots 14, 15 and 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $435,012.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #003172/2017. Cash will not be accepted. Frank Bruno, Jr., Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149172

trying to win that first place award and check.

Three surfers were named first place finishers: Charlie Gallo, Chase Lieder and Sebastian Peters. Each one participated in a different group, and each one impressed.

First place winners Charlie Gallo, Chase Lieder and boys Jr. pro winner Sebastian Peters holding checks given to winners.

Bob Arkow/Herald photos

Lia Caracciolo demonstrates her great surfing skills.

Bodhi Boyiatzis shows good form going into the wave.

Doyle Shaffer making it look easy.

Huda Marks surfing a beautiful wave.

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department.

Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.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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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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Should we avoid cedar for siding, too?

Nestled on a picturesque

Q. We want to replace our cedar siding, and you wrote about not using cedar. Is that just for decks, or also for siding? Our community in Massachusetts insists on cedar siding, but has been accepting lookalikes if they meet their appearance standards at the community review. It wouldn’t make sense for us to consider cedar if it’s as much of a problem as you stated. Please let us know your opinion on what we should do, since we want to try to get the siding done before the winter.

A. In my column, answering the question about decks, I wrote that I don’t recommend cedar as either a structural material or finish board material because of its instability and maintenance issues, for decks, specifically. Natural wood is more reactive to the environment, because it used to be in the middle of a tree, and wasn’t intended to be exposed to the weather in its natural state.

The stronger, solid hardwoods are less reactive, but cedar is a soft wood that easily expands and contracts. Although it’s resistant to insects, it doesn’t last as long as other products. As a siding material, it’s not as big a problem, and it’s reminiscent of the original New England historical architecture it was employed for. It’s very attractive, and the issue of stability and durability is different for its use as a siding material.

There are two basic kinds of natural cedar siding, cedar shakes and cedar shingles. Shingles are cut with blades and shaped uniformly, while shakes, also called “split” shakes, are cut to size at double the thickness (or more) and then split in half. That mimics the rustic and non-uniform look our first settlers developed for making the homes and meeting houses they constructed as weatherresistant as they could manage. The techniques and original tools are still used today.

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You may want to reconsider when to do the work, whichever style you choose, because cedar is generally harvested in the winter and early spring, and you’ll get better-quality material to work with in the spring than in the fall. The reason the wood is harvested when it is is because the ground around cedar trees is boggy and swampy, and heavy equipment can’t get to the trees until the ground is hard and stable. (Incidentally, foresting requirements dictate that for every tree harvested, two trees must be planted, and about 1 percent of all cedar trees are taken in a season, meaning there will be plenty of cedar for you when you need it.)

Make sure you have an installer who knows to use a waterproofing membrane and drainage filter fabric first, before the cedar is applied, so the shingles or shakes don’t constantly sit against a wet wall after they’re attached. The original settlers understood this, and used strips of cedar to keep the shakes off the wall to drain and dry. Wetting and drying cycles cause accelerated decay. Good luck!

© 2024 Monte Leeper

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Remembering a cherished friendship with Nelson DeMille

The bestselling, superbly gifted novelist Nelson DeMille recently died. The author of 23 books, including 17 bestsellers, DeMille was so much more than a brilliant writer. He was first and foremost an outstanding human being and a loyal friend.

The first book of his that I read was “Cathedral,” in the early 1980s. It was a gripping tale of an attack on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I was hooked. Among all of Demille’s books, I found “Gold Coast,” a satiric depiction of Long Island’s North Shore, to be a true classic. My wife, Rosemary, became an almost obsessive reader of his works.

I didn’t actually meet DeMille until the early 2000s, when I was privileged to be invited to several lunches hosted by Mets owner Fred Wilpon and New York jurist Sol Wachtler at which DeMille was also a guest. I was struck immediately by what a regular guy he was. Totally unassuming and down-to-earth. Humorous. Extremely intelligent, and

knowledgeable on so many topics. Never once telling us how many bestsellers he authored, or mentioning his service in Vietnam as an infantry commander, for which he was awarded a Bronze Star.

Those early gatherings opened the way for lunches, dinners and social gatherings at which Rosemary and I would see Nelson and his wife, Sandy, as well as get-togethers he and I would have with guys we each knew. I distinctly recall the wonderful evening Rosemary and I enjoyed at DeMille’s home, celebrating his 75th birthday with his family and a multitude of friends.

TRosemary, who, in what turned out to be Sandy’s final social event, invited her to a formal congressional lunch in Washington honoring then first lady Melania Trump.

That evening, Sandy joined Rosemary, our daughter, Erin, and me for dinner at a Capitol Hill restaurant, and she was as outgoing and upbeat as ever. Just months later, in September 2018, she died. As devastated as he was, Nelson never showed even the slightest bit of self-pity.

he bestselling author was still the blue-collar guy who grew up in Elmont.

Conversations with him ran the gamut of his varied interests, including dedication to his family and his concern for others. Nothing was more saddening or distressing than when Sandy, a nonsmoker, was stricken with lung cancer. The years following her diagnosis in 2014 were marked by peaks of hope, but then by the darkest valley in 2018, when Sandy succumbed after waging a courageous, uncomplaining struggle.

She was an absolute delight to be with. Intelligent and always upbeat. Sandy was the center of her husband’s life. She was especially friendly with

TRosemary and I continued to get together with DeMille and, if anything, our friendship and admiration for him only deepened. More than ever, I realized that, with all his fame and success, he was, at heart, still the blue-collar guy who grew up in Elmont. Though he moved easily with the socially upscale and the movers and shakers, he very much identified with cops, firefighters, construction workers and military veterans. Those were the people who, through guts and dedication, make our nation work with little recognition or acclaim.

DeMille also never left Long Island. His roots were here, and this was where he stayed.

He continued his literary efforts,

writing, as always, in longhand on yellow legal pads, and rushing feverishly to meet his publisher’s deadlines. His final work was “Blood Line,” published in 2023, which he co-wrote with his son, Alex. Last Oct. 11 I had the privilege of moderating a discussion of “Blood Line” with the two of them before a large audience at LIU Post.

Weeks later, on Oct. 28, Rosemary, and I got together with DeMille at the Paramount, in Huntington, at a reception prior to a performance by Bill O’Reilly and Sid Rosenberg. DeMille was in good spirits, and seemed entirely healthy, but that was the last time we were with him. Soon after, he let us know he was being treated for cancer, but was confident all would be well.

This went on for months. On June 6, Rosemary received an email from him, saying he had just one procedure left, and then we’d be getting together for dinner. That was the last we heard from him. Nelson died of esophageal cancer on Sept. 17.

His wake and funeral, attended by hundreds of admirers and friends, were a celebration of a wonderful man of great accomplishment. He will be missed. Nelson DeMille, R.I.P.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

A historic election for all the wrong reasons

his has been a political year like no other in my lifetime. It may be the only year that was dominated by mean-spirited and ugly conduct, all in the name of winning an election. I am not naïve, having run 12 successful campaigns for public office. But the desperate campaign being run by Donald Trump, in his quest for renewed power, will stand out in the history books for many years to come.

Let’s start with this backdrop.

Trump lost the 2020 election by 7 million votes. His years of claims that his success was “stolen” are fake by any measure. He admitted that he was beaten by challenging the election results in Georgia. If you lost an election, why would you be asking the Georgia secretary of state to “find 11,780 votes”? What is sad is that there are millions of Americans who have fallen for that charade.

The second historical event that

taints the Trump re-election effort is the Jan. 6, 2021, riot on Capitol Hill. Trump once told Americans that they shouldn’t believe what they saw with their own eyes. Whether you’re blind or able to see, at Trump’s urging, hundreds of people broke down the doors to the Capitol and destroyed government property, and their actions contributed to the death of five people. That is not my conclusion. It is the findings of countless jurors who heard the facts after weeks and weeks of criminal trials.

Donald Trump’s vision of the nation is depressing and false.

And so, with the blemish of a torrent of facts that would undo any reelection effort, Trump commenced his 2024 campaign. He once claimed he would “drain the swamp,” but instead he has created a new swamp by conducting a campaign heavy with racial undertones, vicious personal attacks and attacks on the American court system.

There have been so many vitriolic assaults that it would take more than one column to adequately describe all of them. One of the current ones that deserves public scorn is his attacks on

the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio. Despite the pleas of the Republican governor of Ohio, the mayor of Springfield and many other elected officials, both Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance, have continued to spread false charges about Haitians eating dogs and cats.

I long ago learned that personal attacks on your opponent don’t get much voter applause. Trump has decided that calling his challenger, Vice President Kamala Harris, “mentally impaired” is a way to get voter support. He also thinks that attacking her appearance is a way to win over skeptical women voters. These tasteless tactics are not the way to get the support of the fast-shrinking independent vote.

One of the winning ways to get voters to be your boosters is to offer solid policy proposals and to give the public a chance to hear your vision for the next 10-plus years. Trump has offered little in way of new ideas, but has Project 2025 as his policy proposal. That 900-plus-page volume, drafted by former officials of his administration, calls for

dismantling the federal government as we know it and turning it over to prescreened loyalists who will complete a menu of bureaucratic horrors. Perhaps the most vexing part of the current Trump effort is his constant harping on what he thinks our country looks like. He describes America as a “failed state.” His vision of the nation is depressing and false. He claims that many thousands of the migrants who have come to America have committed major crimes. Any honest presidential contender would not tear down the country at a time when it wants a leader with a brighter view of the nation. Obviously, my view of the Trump campaign is not a flattering one. Am I a partisan? I have spent all of my life cultivating relationships with my Republican counterparts, and have succeeded because of our mutual respect. But I draw the line when it comes to Donald Trump. I just don’t think he is the true face of America.

Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

HERALD

HeraLd editoriaL

Calling for fire safety, honoring local volunteers

With Fire Prevention Week — Oct. 6-12 — upon us, it’s important to reflect on the significance of fire safety in our communities, and to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians who keep us safe.

These men and women are truly local heroes, but they are also neighbors just a phone call away who risk their lives in hazardous situations that include fires and floods. They should never be taken for granted, and this annual observance serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in preventing fires and responding to emergencies of all kinds.

There are 71 fire departments in Nassau County — 69 all-volunteer, and two with both professionals and volunteers — along with six volunteer ambulance corps that provide fire, technical rescue and emergency medical help, all serving 1.3 million residents. In Suffolk, more than 125 volunteer fire and EMS agencies serve that county’s population of more than 1.5 million.

Fire Prevention Week is a nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness of fire hazards and promoting practices that can saves lives. President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed it a national observance in 1925 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which devastated much of the city and claimed hundreds of lives.

“Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!” is this year’s theme. The goal is to

Letters

educate people about the crucial role smoke alarms play in preventing injury and death when a fire breaks out in a home.

Three of every five home fire deaths occur in properties without working smoke alarms, and the risk of dying in a house fire is cut in half when there are functioning alarms, according to the National Fire Protection Association. This underscores the fact that fire prevention isn’t just about avoiding accidents — it’s about saving lives.

The American Red Cross also stresses the importance of installing smoke alarms. At the organization’s Sound the Alarm events, volunteers install smoke alarms for free. For more information, go to RedCross.org.

Education is paramount, too. Children, adults and seniors benefit from learning how to prevent fires and to respond appropriately if one breaks out. Teaching children not to play with matches, encouraging adults to avoid being distracted while cooking and reminding seniors to be mindful of electrical appliances are just a few essential lessons that can reduce the likelihood of fires.

It’s also important to honor the brave people who respond when fires and other emergencies occur. Volunteer firefighters often juggle full-time jobs and family responsibilities, yet they still make time to respond to calls for help — whether it’s a house fire, a car accident or a medical emergency.

Letter writer defending D’Esposito was ‘splitting hairs’

To the Editor:

In his letter last week, “Is D’Esposito vulnerable to a House probe?” Christopher Kane complained that the Herald owes Congressman Anthony D’Esposito an apology for an article about the hiring of his mistress and the daughter of his fiancée that was headlined “D’Esposito faces ethics probe over hiring.” Kane argued, in part, that D’Esposito didn’t violate any ethics rules because he wasn’t married to his fiancée.

However, according to a Sept. 23 article in The New York Times, “The House code of conduct prohibits members of Congress from employing spouses or relatives, including stepchildren. Though Mr. D’Esposito has never married, congressional ethics experts said that employing a woman akin to his stepdaughter, who shared a home with him, could breach the requirement that members of Congress ‘adhere to the spirit and the letter of the rules.’”

The Times article continued, “A separate provision adopted in the wake of the #MeToo movement explicitly states that lawmakers ‘may not engage in a sexual relationship with any employee of the House who works

They undergo extensive training to ensure that they are equipped to handle the myriad dangerous conditions that can arise in an emergency, and they are often the only line of defense when a home catches fire and lives are on the line. It’s no wonder that so many people find firefighters’ dedication so inspiring.

The same is true for volunteer EMTs, who provide critical care during medical emergencies, administering life-saving treatment before a victim can be transported to a hospital. Their swift action and expertise often mean the difference between life and death.

A former Suffolk County volunteer firefighter and EMT who continues to serve as a paid paramedic and a New York City police officer explained why he became a first responder.

“I wanted to participate in something that allowed me to help my neighbors at their most vulnerable points in life, while also providing me with valuable life experience and training,” he told the Herald. “The fire department put me on a path to serve the people and communities that I live and work in, as well as (having) a second family I know would come to my aid should my family or I need it.”

We strongly urge you to be there for your local fire department’s next fundraiser or open house, salute the volunteers at their next holiday parade and, if you’re able, consider becoming one of them.

under the supervision of the member.’”

Although D’Esposito was not married to his fiancée, with whom he was allegedly cohabiting, it appears that in

his letter, Kane was doing nothing more than splitting hairs!

Lastly, while he criticizes Laura Gillen, who “identifies as a Catholic,” apparently Kane is not that troubled

We badly need congestion pricing

Ibelieve congestion pricing is an absolute necessity, for several reasons. First of all, traffic in the metropolitan area is an absolute nightmare. You can’t get into New York City in a reasonable amount of time unless you leave at 5 a.m. or after 9 p.m. most days from any direction — long Island, Westchester, Connecticut or New Jersey.

once you get to Manhattan, traffic is so bad that you can walk faster than you can drive. I know, because I work on the upper East Side and often walk to appointments and meetings. It’s faster than waiting endlessly in a taxi or uber.

the rafts of Citi bikes, bike lanes, bus-only lanes and outdoor restaurants built during and after the coronavirus pandemic make Manhattan more intolerable for driving than ever before. according to a tomtom report, New York tops the list of cities with the worst traffic in america. the average commuter spent just under 25 minutes driving about six miles in 2023.

Secondly, our mass transit system has been allowed to deteriorate over the decades, because politicians have always kicked the can down the road. the Second avenue subway was originally proposed over 100 years ago. today, three stations have been built, and the extension to Harlem has been put off, because congestion pricing, which was supposed to help pay for it, has been halted.

I

the 7 Subway line was to have had a stop in Hell’s kitchen, the “10th avenue station,” to alleviate passenger congestion on the West Side and serve the growing neighborhood, but that, too, was killed for lack of funds and political will.

regional train service and rehabilitating the century-old subway system. the more comfortable and convenient the train system, the more people will use it, and the more drivers will opt out of the maddening rush to get to the city.

f only we could come up with a way to charge people based on their net worth.

Much of the current subway system is antiquated, some of it was damaged by saltwater intrusion during Superstorm Sandy, and the signal system is a hazard unto itself, slowing the system down and causing accidents.

So how do we resolve our urban traffic nightmare? there is no doubt that rail lines into Manhattan should be the No. 1 priority. they move the most people at the fastest speeds into and out of the city. Congestion pricing would be of enormous benefit in funding better

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by D’Esposito’s reported affair with a married woman (which ended her marriage) while he was engaged to someone else. Do we really want to be represented by someone who is so ethically challenged?

RobERt tollE Cedarhurst

Abortion rights must be enshrined in N.Y.’s Constitution

to the Editor:

I was unclear about Proposition 1, and my concern grew when I learned that women in states with abortion bans are dying. I wondered if New York’s abortion laws could withstand the radical extremists influencing our Supreme Court, Congress and potentially the White House. Despite Republican assurances against a national abortion ban, I remain skeptical, especially since the Supreme Court previously deemed Roe v. Wade settled law.

Moreover, the G o P made no effort to block the proposed ban on the abortion pill. While an outright abortion ban may not be imminent, without enshrining abortion rights in New York’s Constitution, it’s plausible that there will be attempts to erode women’s rights gradually. For these reasons, it’s crucial to condemn the fear-

Now, there are valid reasons why congestion pricing is unfair. If I’m a millionaire, I don’t care about paying $15 to drive below 60th Street, but if I make $50,000 a year, it’s putting a huge dent in my wallet. box trucks or moving vans would pay $24, large trucks $36, which would make goods and services cost more for New Yorkers.

It’s unfortunate that we can’t devise a methodology that could charge people based on their net worth. If a license tag could be connected to an IRS filing, we could charge wealthy people a different rate than those of more modest means.

beyond a system like that, we must resurrect the congestion pricing program to start to reduce traffic into Manhattan, and use those funds to upgrade Mta trains, subways and buses. If we do nothing, we will have wasted $500 million installing the apparatus to track vehicular traffic into the city, while

mongering falsehoods spread by the radical right about the ballot initiative and to vote “yes” on Proposition 1.

StEPHaNIE CaPuaNo Wantagh

Now Trump will approve the SALT deduction?

to the Editor:

then-President Donald trump and the Republicans limited our income tax deduction for state and local taxes. For two years the Republicans have controlled the House, so why haven’t Congressman a nthony D’Esposito and the M a G a Republicans in the House introduced legislation to give us back our S alt deductions?

Now, in a desperate attempt to help D’Esposito keep his House seat, t rump comes to New York and tells us he’s going to give us back the Salt deduction. He’ll do that right after he finishes building the wall and Mexico pays for it. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

It won’t be all bad when D’Esposito loses the election. His friends in the town of Hempstead will give him a good job.

DENNIS PatRICk bRaDY Rockville Centre

doing nothing to reduce traffic and pollution and build a city for the future. It is also unconscionable that fare evasion cost the Mta an estimated $690 million in 2022, including $315 million from buses and $285 million from subways — 10 percent of the Mta’s annual budget.

and beyond the dollars and cents, New York City now ranks as one of the most ozone-polluted cities in the world thanks to the millions of cars, trucks and buses in stop-and-go gridlock traffic, with drivers endlessly circling for parking spaces and taxis, ubers and lyfts driving nonstop, looking for their next fare.

So how to move the massive number of people in the metropolitan area from destination to destination? Make the best use of the advanced train system that enlightened people built 120 years ago, and that provided 2 billion rides in 2023, on over hundreds of miles of track, picking up and dropping off people at 472 stations. but you can’t build out and upgrade the system without money, and congestion pricing is the ticket.

Jim Paymar is a veteran New York television anchor and reporter who has worked at CNBC, WNBC and WABC. He anchors a podcast, “The Big Shift with Jim Paymar.”

Framework by Tim Baker

Election Letters to the Editor policy

In the interest of fairness and transparency during the election season, we will not publish letters in the Oct. 31-Nov. 6 issue, the final one before Election Day, that criticize a candidate or a specific issue. This is to ensure that no last-minute submissions are published without sufficient opportunity for rebuttal. Readers are encouraged to send letters to execeditor@liherald.com.

At the Family Street Festival — Bellmore

JIm paYmar

In October 2022, Tamar Lemoine of Valley Stream felt a lump in her right breast and was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer. She had previously put o a biopsy after a mammogram in 2021 detected a suspicious mass, so she knew that this time she would need to act fast.

Tamar was referred to Dr. Christine Hodyl, Director of Breast Health Services at Mount Sinai South Nassau, who created a comprehensive treatment plan that included chemotherapy and breast-conserving lumpectomy surgery along with the removal of several lymph nodes. Her treatment ended with a month of radiation therapy sessions. Now cancer-free, Tamar urges women to get their annual mammograms.

Mount Sinai South Nassau’s cancer program is accredited by the Commission on Cancer and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, o ering patients a multidisciplinary approach to fight cancer without having to leave Long Island.

In October 2022, Tamar Lemoine of Valley Stream felt a lump in her right breast and was diagnosed with late-stage