Toys for Tots drive is a huge success
By MIKE POLANSKY Correspondent
The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce successfully collected more than 2,000 toys in its 2024 Toys for Tots drive. Thirty-two local businesses participated by placing collection boxes in their establishments, and the community responded with enthusiasm, according to Chamber President Robin Hepworth. On Dec. 18, volunteers gathered the toys from the various businesses and deliv -
Massapequans gather to honor their local veterans
By MIKE POLANSKY Correspondent
The Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual Veterans of the Year Awards Ceremony at the Massapequa Elks Lodge.
The event honored U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Joseph Canova, of American Legion Massapequa Post 1066; U.S. Air Force Sergeant Francis Marcinek, of AMVETS Massapequa Post 88; and U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Nelson Vergara,
of Massapequa VFW Post 7277.
Also recognized was U.S. Navy E-3 Ralph Esposito, Director of Veterans Affairs for the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency, who received his award before the official ceremony because of scheduling conflicts.
Chamber President Robin Hepworth presided over the ceremony, noting the occasion’s significance. “We gather
together to express our deepest gratitude to our nation’s heroes,” she said. Hepworth was joined at the podium by Chamber 2nd Vice President Sal Polito, who chaired the event planning committee. Hepworth praised the honorees for their ongoing service to their fellow veterans. “Their enduring commitment inspires us, and our debt to them is
Mike Polansky/Herald
Wrapping up another very successful Toys for Tots event
various businesses and delivered them to the 7-Eleven at 5570 Merrick Road in East Massapequa, where the items were sorted before being picked up by the Toys for Tots Program volunteers.
The Chamber’s toy collection effort, now in its 30th year, was initiated by the late Massapequa businesswoman Patty Orzano. Today, the Toy Drive Committee is chaired by Chamber Treasurer Karen Gawrych, who served on the committee for 15 years before taking the helm. Gawrych, a lifetime Massapequa resident and independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay, continues the tradition of giving.
The Committee also includes Chamber 3rd Vice President Janice Talento, Past President Robert R. Barrett, and Board Member Thomas LoFaso.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino praised the Chamber’s efforts, noting the spirit of generosity in the community. “It’s wonderful to work with the Chamber of Commerce and to see so many people in the community support this outpouring of kindness,” he said. “As we
do this, we remember our dear friend Patty Orzano, who was such an important part of this initiative for many years.”
State Assemblyman John Mikulin also voiced his support. “Toys for Tots is a wonderful program,” he said. “What the Chamber and the 7-Eleven are doing here is absolutely fantastic—putting smiles on children’s faces, and that’s what the holidays are all about.”
The 7-Eleven in East Massapequa has served as the collection point for the Chamber’s Toy Drive for the past seven years. Taraq Chouvhry, owner of the 7-Eleven, said he is “happy to help out in this way for my Massapequa community and for the kids.”
Other elected officials who attended the toy drive included Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, Town Councilwoman Laura Maier, and Town Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato.
For more information on the Massapequa Chamber and its services and activities go to massapequachamber. org or call (516) 541-1443
Chamber President Robin Hepworth (3rd R) is congratulated by (L to R) Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, State Assemblyman John Mikulin, Town Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, Town Councilwoman Laura Maier, and Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino on the success of the Drive.
How it all started!
The Toys for Tots program began in 1947 when Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks and his wife, Diane, sought to donate handcrafted dolls for children in need. Unable to find an organization to accept the dolls, Diane instructed her husband to “start one.” Heeding her advice, Major Hendricks and his Marine unit in Los Angeles collected and distributed 5,000 toys that year.
Due to the success of the initial campaign, the Marine Corps Commandant expanded the program in 1948, making it a nationwide initia -
tive. Bill Hendricks, who worked as Director of Public Relations at Warner Brothers Studios, enlisted the help of celebrities, and Walt Disney designed the first Toys for Tots poster, featuring a miniature three-car train that would later become the program’s iconic logo.
In 2023, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots distributed an unprecedented 25.5 million toys, books, and games to 10.3 million children in need.
For more information go to toysfortots.org
Oyster Bay announces Toddler Arts & Crafts
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand announced that the popular Toddler Arts & Crafts Program will return this winter, beginning Feb. 11. The sixweek program will be offered at the Town’s Ice-Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage and the Hicksville Athletic Center. It is open to children ages 2 through 4.
The program will run for six weeks, starting Feb. 11. Residents must register their toddler for one class per week. Classes will be held Tuesday Wednesday and Thursdays. Registration will open online through the Parks Portal at oysterbaytown.com/portal on Jan. 7 at 9 a.m. Space is limited, and registration will close when the program reaches full capacity. Registration will be firstcome, first-served.
The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. or more information, call (516) 7977945.
Massapequa C of C raises $6,000 for breast cancer awareness
The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce announced that the Breast Cancer Awareness Month Walk, held on October in honor and memory of Past president Patricia Orzano, raised $6,000. These funds were presented to two organizations: Mondays Cancer Care and Hewlett House, both of which provide vital support to those battling cancer.
It was a special moment for all involved as the donations were presented to both organizations December 5. Mondays Cancer Care offers hands-on wellness and beauty services for individuals undergoing cancer treatments, while Hewlett House serves as a community resource center for all cancerrelated concerns. Both organizations offer their services free of charge and depend entirely on the generosity of donors.
As the community approaches the one-year anniversary of Patty’s passing, a heartfelt tribute was made in her honor, which was organized by of Chamber President Robin Hepworth. Her idea to create an event that would not only remember Patty but also celebrate the impact she had on everyone around her, proved to be a success.
“I wanted to bring something meaningful to honor Patty’s memory,” Hepworth said. “She was the heart and soul of our Chamber and it’s important that we remember not only the challenges she overcame but the way she touched so many lives. This event is a testament to her
spirit.»
Additionally, Event Chairperson Robert R. Barrett played a pivotal role in making this event a reality. His tireless dedication and organizational expertise ensured everything went smoothly and was a resounding success.
Patricia Orzano, who left an indelible mark on the Chamber, is remembered fondly for her unwavering philanthropy and her dedication to giving back, even while bravely fighting breast cancer. Her legacy continues to inspire us all. Patty’s memory lives on in our hearts forever, and we are honored to follow her example and continue her philanthropic spirit.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The following are a list of public meetings and special events for the coming week: Please note: All meetings are subject to change without notice.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 2
•The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information, call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org
FRIDAY, JANUARY 3
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569
SATURDAY, JANUARY 4
•The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org
SUNDAY, JANUARY 5
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 7
•Town of Oyster Bay Town Board
Meeting: 10 a.m.., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6380.
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)332-0552 or Jill at (516)-220-7808. All calls are confidential.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)-332-0552 or Jill at (516)220-7808. All calls are confidential.
•The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org
“The Chamber is deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to this effort, especially the walk participants, those who donated in Patricia’s memory, and our generous sponsors: Masone Masonry (Main Event Sponsor), J.P. Scar Inc (Coin Sponsor), and Four Pebbles on a Bench by Gary
Slavin and Drug Free Long Island - DFLI Coalition (T-Shirt Sponsors),” said Hepworth.
For more information about Mondays Cancer Care, visit www.mondayscancercare.org. For details on Hewlett House, visit www.hewlett-house.org.
CRIME WATCH
The following incident have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department’s 7th and 8th precincts.
WOMAN STABBED IN MASSAPEQUA
Massapequa: Police have identified the woman who was stabbed and found in a building at 5714 Old Sunrise Hwy, Massapequa on Christmas Eve. Nassau County Police later identified her as Josefina Ramirez Montero, 57, and said she was stabbed multiple times.
According to police, they received a call about a woman who was lying unresponsive at that location at approximately 7 p.m., Dec. 24. When they arrived, they found Montero unresponsive but alive and rushed her to a hospital. She later died of her injuries.
The investigation into her death is ongoing by Nassau County Homicide Detectives.
Anyone with information can contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.
FED EX TRUCK STOLEN
Massapequa: Nassau County Police continue to investigate the theft of a FedEx truck that was stolen in Massapequa Dec. 20 at approximately 7 p.m. According to police, the truck driver was approached by the thief while making a routine pickup. The suspect ordered the driver out of the vehicle and then fled in the truck.
The driver went into a nearby smoke shop and told the owners that someone had taken the truck and to call police. Once police arrived, they began their investigation.
The truck was located a short time later about a half mile away and officials were working to assess what items were missing and their value.
Anyone with questions about their deliveries can go to FedEx.com to contact the company.
GRANDPA SCAM THWARTED
South Farmingdale: Nassau County Police report that a 24-year-old male was arrested and charged with attempting to scam an 83-year-old victim out of money by pretending to be his grandson. Police said that the victim received a telephone call
from the defendant asking him to call an attorney who was allegedly representing him after his arrest and that he needed cash for bail. The victim, was, however, alert to this scam and immediately called police. As a result they tracked down the scammer, later identified as Cristhian Ortega Rodriguez, 24, of 2566 Bainbridge, Bronx. As police attempted to place him under arrest, he resisted. He was eventually subdued and arrested and charged.
Detectives ask anyone with information on similar incidents or feel they have been a victim of a scam to call them at 1-800-244TIPS.
PETIT LARCENY
South Farmingdale: Someone removed $30 in cash from a vehicle that was parked din front of 78 Crestwood Blvd., sometime between Nov. 16 and Dec. 17.
Farmingdale: A black folding knife was removed from a vehicle while it was parked in front of 39 Nelson Street between during the early morning hours of Dec. 19.
•A DeWalt Screw gun was stolen from a vehicle parked at 35 Main Street on Dec. 23.
•Personal items were stolen from a vehicle parked at 55 Columbia St., sometime during the daytime hours of Dec. 24.
Massapequa. A hybrid bike was stolen from 48 Grove Street between 1 and 5 a.m., Dec. 19.
•Police were called to Dicks Sporting Goods at 1188 Sunrise Mall on Dec. 22 after employees there reported that an unknown male entered the store and left with an assortment of items without paying for them. That incident was reported shortly after 7 p.m.
•An unknow male stole $30 from the counter of Dunkin Donuts at 1000 Carmans Road Dec. 24. The theft occurred at approximately 8 a.m.
North Massapequa: Representatives of ACE Hardware at 1330 Hicksville Road called police shortly after 5 p.m., Dec. 23 to report the theft of a Milwaukee Drill Bit set. The value of the item was not included in the police report.
ARRESTS
Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Adam Poe, 30, of Valley Stream.
Community comes together to honor it local veterans
us, and our debt to them is immeasurable,” she told the audience of more than 100 people. “The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce pledges to continue supporting our veterans.”
Elected officials in attendance included New York State Assemblymembers Michael Durso and John Mikulin, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Nassau County Legislator James Kennedy, and Town of Oyster Bay Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato. Francis Becker, representing Nassau County Clerk Maureen O’Connell, was also present.
Pravato echoed the sentiments of many in the room, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans.
“We would not be sitting here today without our veterans,” he said. “They defended our democracy and protected us when we were attacked. All our veterans should be treated with the utmost dignity because they gave up so much.”
The luncheon was sponsored by TLC Companions Home Care, with owners Greg and Robin Massimi in attendance. Food sponsors included the Massapequa Elks Lodge, Ciminelli’s Pizza & Restaurant, Little Lounge, Mario’s Pizzeria of Massapequa, Mercato’s Kitchen & Cocktails, Patrizia’s of Massapequa, Sal’s Place, Sequa Deli, Vincent’s Pizza, and Zona Italian Restaurant.
For more information on the Massapequa Chamber and its services and activities go to massapequachamber.org or call (516) 541-1443
Mike Polansky/Herald
On Cover are the awrad winners (L to R) Francis Marcinek, Joseph Canova and Ralph Esposito.
A left,, Massapequa Chamber President Robin Hepworth as she presides over the luncheon.
At righ, those on hand at the event included NYS Assemblyman Michael Durso, New York State Assemblyman John Mikulin, American Legion Post1066 Post past Commander Joe Clark and Chamber 2nd Vice President Sal Polito with the honorees
Senior
This is a story of loss— and triumph.
Negrita, a 14-year-old Yorkie mix, spent more than a month in the care of Last Hope Animal Rescue, her temperament initially described as that of a toy-sized, senior dog Scrooge. At the Wantagh Adoption Center, Negrita, who weighs just a few pounds, was defensive, quick to snap or growl at anyone trying to help her. Her behavior, though, stemmed
Yorkie
Pets, Pets, Pets...
finds forever home after a rocky start
from a heartbreaking past. She had lived with the same couple her entire life until their circumstances changed, leaving them unable to care for her. The couple, who did not speak English, struggled to get help rehoming Negrita, facing cold and judgmental treatment at a nearby shelter. Desperate, they contacted Last Hope’s bilingual dog coordinator, who understood their plight and feared for Negrita’s future without proper support.
Last Hope took the senior dog in but adjusting to kennel life proved difficult. Despite her small size, Negrita remained fearful and defensive, snapping at volunteers. Attempts to place her in a quiet foster home also failed, as she only bonded with one person.
rglickman@liherald.com
Just before Christmas, a dog-savvy family with three older children and three larger dogs stepped forward to foster Negrita. The new home was busier than what she had been used to, but it worked. Within a week, Negrita, now renamed Rita, was thriving. She bonded quickly with her new “Dad,” jumped into his lap, and became comfortable with the
rest of the family. The resident dogs left her alone, and she began to relax. She is getting tons of attention.
On Christmas Eve, Rita was welcomed into the home for a family gathering, enjoying Chinese food. She was fine with the crowd and treated to a fortune cookie as her reward. The fortune read, “Connect with others who understand your mental struggles,” which seemed to perfectly capture Rita’s journey to find her forever home.
On Saturday December 28, Rita›s new family finalized her adoption, and her « connections « became forever. Happy New Yea
JOANNE ANDERSON
Negrita reads her appropos fortune cookie message on Christmas Eve.
Holiday Lights, making spirits bright
It may seem that people have always decorated their Christmas trees and the outside of their homes with lights, and the tradition, in fact, does go way back.
According to the Smithsonian, in 1882, the owner of a townhouse at 136 East 36th Street in New York City, Edward Hibberd Johnson, fromed a new company, the Automatic Telegraph Company. At his shop, Johnson set up a tree by the street-side window of his parlor, hand-wired 80 red, white and blue light bulbs and strung them together around it, and placed the trunk on a revolving pedestal, all powered by a generator. Then he called a reporter who helped spread the word about the brilliant Christmas display. The lights drew a crowd as passers-bys stopped to peer at the glowing marvel. Johnson turned
his stunt into a tradition; he also pioneered the practice of doing more each year: An 1884 New York Times article counted 120 bulbs on his dazzling tree.
Johnson’s lights were indeed ahead of their time—electricity was not yet routinely available—and they weren’t cheap. A string of 16 vaguely flame-shaped bulbs sitting in brass sockets the size of shot glasses sold for a pricey $12 (about $350 in today’s money) in 1900. But in 1894 President Grove Cleveland put electric lights on the White House tree, and by 1914, a 16-foot string cost just $1.75.
By the 1930s, colored bulbs and cones were everywhere and have grown to be a holiday tradition that gets bigger—and brighter—every year.
Beautifully decorated home in multi colored lights at the corner of County Line Road and Oakley Street in Massapequa.
Santa’s reindeer stationed at home on Abbey Lane in Massapequa awaiting their call to get underway on Christmas eve.
White lights trim this house on Massapequa Avenue in Massapequa in a lace design that beckons the tanquility of the holiday season.
Wreaths and bright lights make this home a holiday delight on Massapequa Avenue, Massapequa
ALLIE TWIBLE
East Meadow Senior Basketball
AFTER HELPING LEAD the Jets to a historic 2023-24 season that ended in the state semifinals, Twible got her senior campaign off to a roaring start by reaching the 1,000-career point milestone Dec. 10. She was named Frist Team All-Long Island as a junior and was a major part in East Meadow’s first-ever Nassau County and L.I. championship teams. Twible has avearged close to 20 points per game over the past two seasons.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Jan. 2
Wrestling: Plainedge at MacArthur 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Manhasset 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 3
Boys Basketball: Friends Aca. at Long Beach 12 p.m.
Wrestling: Kenndy at Hewlett 4 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Farmingdale at West Hemp 5 p.m.
Wrestling: Lawrence at North Shore 6 p.m.
Wrestling: Lynbrook at Clarke 6 p.m.
Wrestling: East Meadow at Long Beach 6 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Freeport at Seaford 6:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Oceanside 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Oceanside at South Side 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4
Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook 10 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Division 11 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Malverne at Mineola 11 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Plainedge at Clarke 12 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Jericho at Kennedy 1 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 6
Wrestling: North Shore at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Hewlett at Carey 5 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter 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.
Plainedge off landmark season
By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com
Plainedge wrestling team’s dual meet state championship in Syracuse last season was a landmark accomplishment.
And the Red Devils are ready for a repeat. Why not? A year ago, Plainedge won its first state dual-meet title as the smallest school in Division I.
Now Plainedge, because of a slight drop in enrollment, has moved down in classification to Division 2.
“We went down to Division 2,’’ coach Rob Shaver said. “In a dual meet setting, it’s a little less challenging. Schools are smaller and it’s tougher to have a full lineup. Even if we lost a few good guys, we should be OK.’’
Though the dual meet state event is only been around seven years, Shaver said Plainedge’s work in 2023-24 was epic. The red-clad wrestlers upended two-time defending champion Minisink Valley of Orange County.
“The biggest accomplishment in school history,’’ Shaver said. “It’s really hard, especially since we’re the smallest school in Division I last year. Some teams graduate nine times what we do. It’s tough to spread out kids among 13 weight classes. It’s a hard thing. in that population.’’
Shaver is also head football coach and coming off a wonderful run to the championship game. In the late stages of the season, he had to conduct back-to-back practices with wrestling starting at 2:30 p.m. followed by football.
Plainedge graduated four starters from the state-title team including star Vinnie Petzold, second in the individual state tournament.
But the Red Devils return plenty of studs, led by junior Devin Downes and senior Luke Nieto.
Downes committed to Maryland after winning the state individual championship as a sophomore and posting a 54-2 record in 2023-24. Downes wrestled at 170 pounds last year and will move up to 190.
.“He’s a fierce competitor,’ Shaver said. “That’s what separates him from everyone else. He competes really hard al the
Junior Devin Downes is a returning state champion at 170
and
get the job done in Division 2 this season at 190.
time.’’
Nieto was a state runner-up at 138 pounds in 2024 and compiled a 55-2 clip. “He has one of the best feels I’ve ever seen,’’ Shaver said. “He just has tremendous body awareness, knows where he is all the time. His positioning is very good.’’
Nieto, who has multiple colleges interested, will move up from 138 to 152.
That his two most accomplished grapplers are wrestling at higher weight classes is of no concern to Shaver.
“Not really if they go about it the right way with lifting weights,’ Shaver said.
“Devin went up one weight class. Luke is up two weight classes but that’s where he should be. He had to hold down his weight
last year.’’
There’s a lot more to this team than those two grapplers. Kyle Carter was the Nassau County champion at 145 and will return at that weight class, where he posted a 45-6 record.
Junior Joe Manfre, at 108, became a hero at the state meet when he pinned a Minisink Valley wrestler with a cradle move in a key bout.
A football player, Jaden Camp will wrestle at 215 after being a county qualifier last season. The football team’s kicker, Jonluca Frucci, will start at 131.
It is all setting up sweet for the North Massapequa program that is feted with a state championship sign hanging on Hicksville Road.
Paul Grassini/Herald
pounds
looking to
MTA Coalition relaunches underage drinking campaign
Massapequa Takes Action Coalition (MTAC) has relaunched its underage drinking awareness campaign, with a renewed focus on Nassau County’s Social Host Law and the mental health risks associated with alcohol use among minors.
The updated campaign aims to educate parents, guardians, and the broader community about the legal consequences of serving alcohol to minors, while also highlighting the psychological impacts of underage drinking.
Underage drinking continues to be a significant concern in Nassau County. The revamped campaign will place a special emphasis on the county’s Social Host Law, which holds adults legally responsible if they permit minors to drink alcohol on
their property. In addition, the campaign will raise awareness about the mental health risks of underage drinking.
Research indicates that alcohol use during adolescence can disrupt brain development and increase the likelihood of mental health issues later in life. By sharing this critical information, MTAC hopes to empower both parents and teens to make healthier, more informed decisions.
The holiday season, often a time of celebration, can also present challenges related to social drinking, heightened stress, and emotional triggers. These factors may make the holidays especially difficult for individuals in recovery or those struggling with addiction.
MTAC encourages individuals to set
clear boundaries, seek support from loved ones or support groups, and explore healthy alternatives to drinking in order to protect their well-being during this time. With the right support, individuals can find joy in the season while prioritizing their mental and physical health.
For more information about the campaign, Nassau County’s Social Host Law, or resources related to underage drinking and mental health, visit mtacoalition.com or contact Massapequa Takes Action Coalition at (516) 799-3203 ext. 131 or mtacoalition@yesccc.org.
‘Magic of Lights’ still on at Jones Beach
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and Live Nation invite visitors to enjoy the “Magic of Lights” within Jones Beach State Park before it ends Jan. 4, 2025. Experience the show from the comfort of your own car as you wind through the sparking path of Jones Beach’s new holiday tradition, an amazing display of over 1M lights which starts at dusk. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Standard vehicle pricing starts at $30 Monday—Thursday and $35 Friday—Sunday. If you would like to purchase your ticket in advance you can go to: https://magicoflights.com/locations/
Powell Funeral Home Inc.
jonesbeach/
Children and young adults will enjoy the dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations.
There is also a holiday village, which features the North Pole Café, a walkthrough selfie present, illuminating mega trees, special nightly activations, holiday merchandise, holiday movies, and more. The Grinch will appear in the Village Dec 24 through January 4.
For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov.
ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at: Massapequa Herald Post Newspaper, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or may call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329.
up for monster truck mayhem
Hot Wheels Monster Truck Live Show is back at Nassau Coliseum for another year of car-smashing, ramp jumping, wheel-revving action
By Danielle Schwab
Get ready, everyone. Gather up the kids and shake up those January doldrums when the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow party lights up Nassau Coliseum once again. Witness the raw power of epic machines when the iconic Hot Wheels toy vehicles transform into unstoppable monster trucks for the “Glow-N-Fire” competition.
“Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life when the action returns to Long Island, Jan. 20-21. As the arena darkens for this glow-in-the-dark party, each truck revs up with its unique LED lights. And, in true “It’s Not The Same Without The Flame” fashion, pyrotechnic effects light up the arena, adding even more intensity to the action.
• Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 18-19; times vary
• Tickets start at $63.85 adults, $35. 15 children (also “Me + 3” family discount option); available at ticketmaster.com and hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com
• Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale
It’s an especially big day for one particular truck: The classic blue vintage-style pick-up Bigfoot turns 50. Everyone is invited to the birthday bash. Plus, have the chance to be celebrated alongside the iconic monster truck. Bigfoot would love to see everyone’s creativity — so fans are encouraged to bring homemade birthday cards to wish Bigfoot a happy birthday. And show off those homemade birthday signs at the show for a chance to win prizes during the bash.
“Bigfoot is known as the original monster truck because this monster truck is what started monster trucks in general,” says Caleb Janezich, Bigfoot’s driver since July.
Owner-operator Bob Chandler first began building Bigfoot in 1975, and a legend was born. The modified 1974 Ford F-250 started its career at local mud runs and truck and tractor pulls. It quickly launched a worldwide phenomenon and its legions of fans. Chandler continued to make improvements and modifications until it grew into the massive behemoth known and loved today by multiple generations of fans.
STEPPING OUT
“There are people that come up to us and the dad knows who Bigfoot is, and then maybe the kids are exposed to Bigfoot for the first time. Even the grandpas come up and they remember Bigfoot,” says Janezich, on Bigfoot’s popularity.
There’s surely no better way to commemorate the original monster truck than with incredible stunts performed by Bigfoot along with all his mechanical monster pals, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Boneshaker, and Gunkster.
Expect to see wheelies, donuts, and long jumps, along with a freestyle Motocross demonstration.
And of course, be prepared for plenty of good ol’ car crushing!
Also witness as the show unleashes its newest addition, Skelesauraus, a truck that takes the spine-chilling form of a giant skeleton head.
This is Janezich’s first time appearing at Nassau Coliseum, however he is no stranger to the Hot Wheels monster truck circuit. An avid collector of Hot Wheels since childhood, Janezich worked as a Bigfoot crewmember before taking up the driver’s seat.
“Bigfoot was always my favorite. I grew up around pickup trucks and four-wheel drives. My dad got me into it.” he says.
“It’s pretty humbling, and it’s really a dream come true. Honestly, they say, ‘if you do what you love, you never work a day in your life’ and that’s pretty much what I live by now.”
While the trucks may seem invincible, it take a dedicated team behind the scenes to keep them crushing to the max.
“The stuff that can be challenging is the unknown. You never know what these trucks are going to do sometimes, and the biggest challenge sometimes can just be just keeping them going and just making sure that we’re ready for the next show all the time, which we try to do very well,” Janezich adds.
Opportunities to go behind the action add to the spectacle. At the Pre-Show Party, held two-and-a-half hours prior to every performance, get up close and see the outrageous designs and epic size of the Hot Wheels behemoths on the arena floor. Meet favorite drivers and performers. Also check out the new VIP Backstage Experience. It’s a behind the scenes guided tour of what goes on before all the smashing and crashing.
Everyone becomes a kid at the show, which is geared to five to 10-year-olds.
“That’s the part that’s always cool because families are coming down and the parents get involved. When the parents are having fun, the kids are having fun, that’s what keeps them coming year after year,” Janezich says.
Courtesy Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Photos: Bigfoot, driven by Caleb Janezich, headlines the latest edition of the spectacle. The iconic truck is joined by many Hot Wheels favorites to thrill fans with exciting car-crunching feats, flying more than 35 feet in the air. Plus, the fiery Skelesaurus roars into the arena ready to “chomp.”
‘Cold Beer on a Friday Night’
Keep those winter doldrums at bay with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. It may seem like we’ve got too long to wait ‘til we’re back on the beach, but Kenny comes to the rescue. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily. The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/ acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/ backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione — gets everyone into the groove as only they can.
Friday, Jan. 3, 8 p.m. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
‘…Your voice is heard’ Broadway comes to Tilles Center. “Dear Evan Hanson,” the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it, has struck a remarkable chord with audiences and critics everywhere. If you’ve yet to see it, now’s your opportunity. Declared “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history” by the Washington Post, it’s the first musical to take a groundbreaking look — from the point of view of both the parents and young people — at our complex, interconnected, and social media-filled lives. It features an uplifting score, including some of the most iconic musical theatere songs from the last decade: “You Will Be Found,” “Waving Through A Window,” and “For Forever.”
Thursday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
THE
Jan. 10
Yacht Rock Revue
The kings of ‘70s tribute hit the road with an authentic throwback to the era, on the Paramount stage, Friday and Saturday, Jan. 10-11, at 8 p.m. Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites listeners on a nostalgic voyage through the sun-soaked melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. The dynamic Atlanta-based 10-piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the yacht rock genre. Their original album “Escape Artist” is a bold homage to this iconic sound. Each side of the album encapsulates the band’s ability to transport audiences to a simpler, more carefree time. Lead singles like “Tropical Illusion” and “Passengers” set the tone, evoking sunsets and salty breezes with their lush instrumentation and ethereal vocals.
Collaborations with yacht rock legends Elliot Lurie and Robbie Dupree underscore the band’s status as innovators within their genre. YRR continues to captivate audiences nationwide with their infectious energy and unabashedly joyous performances. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Whether performing in intimate venues or rocking arenas, their concerts promise an immersive musical journey that celebrates the timeless allure of smooth grooves. $55, $40, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Art League of Long Island’s 68th Annual Members’ Exhibition
Art League of Long Island presents its 68th Annual Members’ Exhibition, a showcase of the remarkable talents within its vibrant community of artists. The exhibit, hosted in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery, features an array of works from painting and ceramics to jewelry and fiber arts. This annual event is a cherished tradition that highlights the diversity and creativity of ALLI’s over 400 memberships. From emerging artists embarking on their creative journey to seasoned professionals, each participant demonstrates the profound artistic spirit that fuels the Art League of Long Island’s mission.
It is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate creativity across mediums and generations. Due to the high volume of submissions, the exhibition is split into two parts, with Part I showcasing artists with last names M-Z and Part II with last names A-L. This format alternates each year, ensuring equal opportunities for members to shine. Part I dates runs through Jan. 24; Part II runs Feb. 1-28 For more information about the exhibition, upcoming events, or how to support the Art League of Long Island, visit .artleagueli. org or call (631) 462-5400. Art League of Long Island, Dix Hills.
Co-ed Badminton
For adults looking for an indoors sport to keep active in the winter, join Co-ed Badminton! Classes start Sunday, Jan. 5 and take place on Tuesday, Fridays and Sundays, at Hicksville Athletic Center. Classes are for those 18 years of age or older and run for 10 weeks. Online registration is open at oysterbaytown.com/portal. There are fees for the classes. For information, (call 516) 7977945. 167 Broadway, Hicksville.
Citizen Preparedness Corps workshop
Farmingdale Public Library hosts a New York State Citizen Preparedness Corps seminar, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 7-8 p.m. The Citizen Preparedness Corps gives residents the tools and resources to prepare for any type of disaster or emergency, respond accordingly and recover as quickly as possible to pre-disaster conditions.
This course provides an introduction to responding to a natural or human-caused disaster. Participants are advised on how to properly develop family emergency plans and stock up on emergency supplies. Preference is given to UFSD #22 residents for this program. Register in person or by phone at (516) 249-9090 ext. 204 or 206. 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale.
EDITOR/REPORTER
some of the best
Gathering Time at LIMEHOF
See Gathering Time at Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame and Museum, Sunday, Jan. 5 , 3 p.m. The internationally touring folkrock harmony trio plays original, classic 20th-century, and trad tunes. Best described as a rocked-up Peter, Paul & Mary or a co-ed Crosby, Stills & Nash, Gathering Time is known for astute songwriting, spirited and accomplished musicianship and a stellar vocal blend. For more information or tickets visit limusichalloffame.org, or call (631) 689-5888. 97 Main St., Stony Brook.
Model Train Show
The TMB Model Train Show opens Saturday, Nov. 30. It features its ever-exciting show of model trains running in dozens of interesting settings, Saturdays, Jan. 4, 18 and Feb. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sundays, 1-5 p.m., Jan. 5, 19 and Feb. 9, at the Upper Room Church. With new scenic areas to discover as well as familiar sights and a wide variety of trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains, all set in 6,500 square feet of fun for the entire family. Admission is free. So, mark your calendars now. 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills. For more information go to tmbmodeltrainclub.com.
Music Bingo
Plainedge Public Library hosts music Bingo for students in grades 6-12, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Compete in several rounds and winners will have the opportunity to choose from tons of prizes. To register and for more information, call (516) 735-4133.1060 Hicksville Rd., North Massapequa.
Little Shop of Improv
Massapequa Public Library hosts Little Shop of Improv for teens, Saturday, Jan. 4, 3-4:30 p.m. Students in grades 6-12 welcome. Learn to think on your feet and have some laughs playing some of their fun improv games. For more information and to register, call (516) 799-0770. 40 Harbor Ln., Massapequa Park.
Art Explorations
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, Jan. 4, noon-3 p.m. Kids and their adult partners talk about and making art together. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit nassaumuseum.org to register or call (516) 484-9337.
Having an event?
‘A Christmas Carol’ The Argyle Theatre in Babylon Village presents, “A Christmas Carol,” with performances now through Sunday, Jan. 5 Broadway heavy hitters, Alan Menken (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors) and Lynn Ahrens (Ragtime, Seussical, Once on This Island), breathe fantastic new life into the classic tale of A Christmas Carol. The theatre is at 34 W. Main St., Babylon. To reach the box office, call (631) 230-3500 or email boxoffice@argyletheatre. com. To purchase tickets online, go to ci.ovationtix.com
AARP Tax Aide Training
Farmingdale Public Library hosts an AARP Tax Aide training, Monday, Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. To register and for more information, call (516) 249-9090 ext. 204 or 206. 116 Merritts Rd., Farmingdale.
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.
NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!
On exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media. It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
In concert
The Hopelessly Olivia Band Experience debut, an Olivia Newton-John tribute band, is held at The Warehouse in Amityville, Thursday, Jan. 9, 9 p.m. Tickets are available now, but there is limited seating. For tickets, visit o the Hopelessly Olivia Facebook page or call (631) 394-8296. 203 Broadway, Amityville.
Introduction to QuickBooks
Massapequa Public Library hosts an intro to QuickBooks,Thursday, Jan. 9, 6:30- 8:30 p.m. Learn the basics of the program in this lecture and demo class, including setting up and customizing QB for your business, creating and editing the Chart of Accounts, working with Centers, understanding Items and creating estimates and invoices. For intermediate and advanced computer users and both teens and adults are invited to attend. For more information and to register, call (516) 799-0770. 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park.
5 New Year’s resolutions to benefit the brain
Resolutions made at the start of a new year often focus on personal improvement. Giving up poor habits like smoking or drinking too much alcohol and losing weight through diet and exercise are some popular resolutions.
Health and wellness certainly dominates the resolution landscape. Improvement-minded individuals interested in gaining long-term benefits from their resolutions this year may want to consider ways to improve brain health and function. Here are five ideas to consider.
1. Get moving: Exercise does the body good and even positively affects the brain. The American Academy of Neurology has found aerobic exercise may play a significant role in reversing and preventing cognitive decline. Researchers have found that even a little exercise each day can result in improved brain function in less than six months.
Andrew E. Budson, M.D., a professor of neurology at Boston University, also says aerobic exercise releases growth factors in the brain, which can help grow new brain cells.
2. Start a new hobby. When doing the same activities over and over, you eventually learn how to do those activities better. But doctors can’t confirm this is actually helping the brain in a meaningful way. Rather, there is evidence that doing new things can be beneficial to the brain. So learning a new hobby, taking a class, or even learning to play a musical instrument can push the brain to improve from a cognitive standpoint, indicates The Healthy, a Reader’s Digest brand.
3. Make more time for fun. Repeated stress can have detrimental effects on the body and mind. Harvard Health says stress has been linked to cognitive problems and a higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Taking time to relax and enjoy oneself can tame stress, and in turn, alleviate issues affecting memory and cognition.
4. Practice mindfulness more often. Mindfulness is an exercise in paying attention to one’s surroundings, senses and more. Too often people are multi-tasking and never fully devoting their attention to one thing. Mindfulness gives the brain a break and brings a person into the present.
5. Eat a better diet. The benefit of eating healthy foods extends beyond the waistline. Many of the foods that are good for the heart are important for preventing cognitive decline and dementias. A 2015 systemic review found strong evidence for a protective effect of the Mediterranean diet, according to researchers at Deakin University School of Medicine in Australia.
By making brain health a priority when coming up with New Year’s resolutions this year, individuals can benefit for years to come.
Fresh air pays dividends, even when it’s cold
The great outdoors beckons millions of people each spring, summer and fall, but far fewer individuals spend as much time outside in winter. However, spending time outdoors can help to improve mood just as much when the mercury drops as it can when temperatures are warm. The United Kingdom-based Mental Health Foundation reports that nature helps to generate positive emotions such as calmness, joy and creativity. The MHF also notes that connectedness with nature has been linked to lower levels of poor mental health, particularly depression and anxiety.
LMAS1
Public Notices — Your right to know
Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals
TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 11771-1592
- TELEPHONE: (516) 6246232 – FAX: (516) 624-6149
RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman – LOIS SCHMITT, Vice Chairwoman –KATHLEEN MULLIGAN
REBECCA M. ALESIA
–ANDREW MONTELEONE – LISA CICCOLELLA – FLORESTANO GIRARDI
***********************
PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY 9, 2025, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals: BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
APPEAL NO. 24-422
MASSAPEQUA
MICHAEL DEMARTI -
NO: (A) Variance to allow existing generator having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing rear roof over pavilion having less rear yard setback, exceeding maximum building coverage and gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance.
W/s/o E. Shore Dr., 116.20 ft. N/o S. Bay Dr., a/k/a 289 E. Shore Drive, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-442
MASSAPEQUA
LORI MACCARRONE:
Variance to allow existing rear roofed over patio having less rear yard setback and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance.
S/s/o Brewster Rd., 165.22 ft. W/o Cedar Shore Dr., a/k/a 110 Brewster Road, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-443
MASSAPEQUA
MICHAEL & JEAN TRIER: (A) Variance to allow existing shed and wood gazebo having less side/front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing wood gazebo exceeding maximum
gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance.
SW/ cor. of Pennsylvania Ave. & Parkside Blvd., a/k/a 130 Pennsylvania Avenue, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-448
MASSAPEQUA
DANIEL & STEPHANIE
INGHAM: Variance to construct second story addition exceeding maximum height than permitted by Ordinance.
S/s/o Hampton Blvd., 180 ft. W/o Beverly Pl., a/k/a 8 Hampton Boulevard, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-468 MASSAPEQUA
THOMAS WHITFIELD: (A) Variance to allow existing second kitchen in a onefamily dwelling for use as a PARENT/CHILD residence. (B) Variance to allow existing driveway having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to construct covered front porch, first floor rear addition and first floor front addition exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance.
S/s/o Ontario Ave., 147.81 ft. W/o Parkside Blvd., a/k/a 264 Ontario Avenue, Massapequa, NY
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MEETING OF 01/09/24 PAGE 2
APPEAL NO. 24-420
FARMINGDALE
FATHEMA UDDIN: (A) Variance to erect 8.5 ft. by 3.3 ft. non-illuminated ground sign (located at curb cut on Boundary Avenue) having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to erect 8.5 ft. by 3.3 ft. non-illuminated ground sign (located at curb cut on Boundary Avenue) having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to erect 8.5 ft. by 3.3 ft. non-illuminated freestanding sign (located at curb cut on Boundary Avenue) exceeding maximum number of signs than permitted by Ordinance. NW/ cor. of Boundary Ave. & Langdon Rd., a/k/a 2143 Boundary Avenue, Farmingdale, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-458 FARMINGDALE
DAVID GRADY: (A) Variance to allow existing front platform with steps to grade having less average
front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing cellar entrance having less side yard setback and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing barbeque having less side yard setback and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing shed having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance.
S/s/o Radcliffe Ave., E/o Graham St., a/k/a 204 Radcliffe Avenue, Farmingdale, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-562
FARMINGDALE
WILLIAM ASTARITA: (A) Variance to construct new dwelling on subdivided lot having less width of lot at street and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (B) Variance to allow parking in required front yard.
PARCEL B
N/s/o Parkview Ct., 553.98 ft. N/o Central Ave., a/k/a 7 Parkview Court, Farmingdale, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-331
MASSAPEQUA
LAURA PRANTIL: Variance to allow existing 4 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height within 30 ft. of intersection than permitted by Ordinance.
NW/ cor. of Harvard St. & Arlyn Dr., a/k/a 1 Harvard Street, Massapequa, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-168
FARMINGDALE
ADNAN SIDDIQUI: (A) Variance to allow existing 6 ft. high fence exceeding maximum height across front, side/front and rear/ front property lines than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing 3 ft. high fence exceeding maximum height within 30 ft. from intersection than permitted by Ordinance.
NW/ cor. of Carman Rd. & Joseph Ln., a/k/a 500 Carman Road, Farmingdale, NY
APPEAL NO. 24-373
FARMINGDALE
DEBORAH RUBIN: (A)
Variance to allow two (2) existing sheds having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing roof over patio having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow two (2) existing
12.5 sq. ft. closet additions having less aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing roof over patio, two (2) 12.5 sq. ft. closet additions and two (2) sheds exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance.
N/s/o Third Ave., 460 ft. E/o Woodward Pkwy., a/k/a 3 Third Avenue, Farmingdale, NY
DECEMBER 30, 2024 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 25-100. 1/1
Help Wanted
Amityville UFSD Food Service Workers PT/FT
Responsibilities- Food preparation & service, sanitation awareness, other duties as assigned by the District.
Qualifications- Knowledge and experience with cooking, inventory, cashiering, recordkeeping, customer service, computer skills **Suffolk County Food Manager's Certificate preferred. Salary range starting at $20,980. Email resume to: humanresources@amityvilleufsd.org or apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland
Amityville UFSD
Substitute/Permanent Substitute Teachers Elementary & Secondary Level
Qualifications: NYS Certification Salary: $150 per day
Application: Interested candidates please apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
MULTI MEDIA
ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT
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 $16.50 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 jbessen@liherald.com
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 $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.
Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for
Our brick walls aren’t what we expected
A Waterfront Beauty
Welcome to an extraordinary waterfront home that masterfully blends contemporary design with unmatched resilience. Constructed on 42 pilings with steel-reinforced block concrete, this 5,600-square-foot residence is built for exceptional energy efficiency and minimal maintenance. Inside, you'll find 5 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 luxurious baths, and three expansive decks, two front-facing and one rear, complete with a gas hookup. The open floor plan is beautifully appointed with hardwood floors, a gas-burning fireplace, and high-end appliances. For year-round comfort, the ground and lower levels are equipped with radiant heat. The expansive yard is a true retreat, with a versatile cabana that can be enjoyed in any season. Perfectly located close to the LIRR and the west end, this home is on the open bay, adjacent to a scenic waterfront walking path, and minutes away from a platinum selection of restaurants, cafes, shops, and more.
Q. After much research, we chose brick for our new house. It has been a nightmare getting satisfaction from the mason who did the work. We noticed after only a few months that there were white powder-like streaks across the brick walls in many places. We spoke with the brick manufacturer, who said it sounded like an installation problem or streaking from other materials around it. The mason came back and looked at it. He used acid and brushed one spot and it lightened up but didn’t go away. He seemed annoyed with us, and said he could “send someone” to brush and put more cleaner on, but the whiteness would remain and it would have to “weather” after that. We had a sample wall built to make sure the color was right, and really went to a lot of effort for our choices. We are upset that the mason acted like it was our fault for complaining. We selected brick for high durability, weather resistance and low to no maintenance, and now we have this problem. What could have caused it, and is there any other remedy?
A. Brick was a great choice for all the reasons you described, and will outlast generations of occupants if installed correctly. The whiteness may be caused in a few ways. You have to first know what caused it.
Trim materials, above and around brick, will streak from the wrong paint on roof-edge or topof-wall trim. If the paint used was interior latex water-soluble paint, it will separate and run. Prefinished metal, factory finished, will also start to chalk and run. If a highly pigmented paint with low-resin binder was used, then the same results occur. The brick will be somewhat cleanable, but will have to be exposed to many cycles of rain, heat, freezing, etc., also known as weathering.
Because the mason did not mention the runoff of paint from trim, I suspect that your problem is the worst-case scenario, and all the cleaning with muriatic acid and a steel brush will not solve the staining entirely. Wire brushing or high powerwashing actually harms brick, because that amazingly strong fired-finish on the brick, the reason brick is such a good resister of the elements, is now going to be broken down to a grainy finish that can harbor mildew.
Sadly, the issue was completely preventable, either by using trim that did not lose color or by the brick installation. Yes, the brick installation. It starts with not having the correct width of the foundation to carry the brick, so it is installed too close to or right against the exterior plywood. That airspace is supposed to be 2 inches, clear, behind the brick, so rain that gets sucked into the mortar joints can drop behind the brick and “weep” from weep holes at the bottom of the wall. If you do not have weeps, then the wall was installed incorrectly and the problem will continue. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Stuff HERALD
Finds Under $100
HOOVER RUG SHAMPOO Machine with all Attachments, and Cleaning Supplies. $85 LIke New. 516-486-7941
Plumbing
Home Improvement
SAVE
We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464
Finds Under $100 CHARTER CLUB HOME (angels depicted) set of 4 new salad/dessert plates in box, $36, 516-884-9994.
CUTCO KNIVES. ASSORTED, New.
Stainless Steel. Brown handle. 2-3/4" Bird's Beak Paring Knife. $80 516-320-1906
DRESSERS: 2 IDENTICAL pcs. Black; Wood; Single Top drawer, 2 magnetic doors, $50 ea. 516-320-1906
FACTORY CAR COVER: For a Ford Mustang. Used Only 2 Times. $99. 516-993-8001
IKEA SOLID OAK: Unassembled, Media Storage Cabinets, New in Box: DVD, CD VCR $50 each. 516-486-7941
TUPPERWARE CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Vintage set, lights up, 12 pieces total including 5 buildings, $60, 516-884-9994.
SERVICES
Cable/TV/Wiring
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
Electricians
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Exterminating
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
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Governor Hochul’s totalitarian energy agenda
After Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed the Planned Offshore Wind Transmission Act in the fall of 2023 due to local opposition to a wind farm’s high-voltage cables, the state had a trick up its sleeve.
The bill would have required the State Energy Research and Development Authority to establish transmission planning for the offshore grid, coupled with a requirement to conduct a cost-benefit analysis that included the impact on ratepayers. In essence, the bill would have, for the first time, given New Yorkers insight into the true cost of implementing offshore wind projects and their transmission lines.
The question is, why did Hochul veto the bill? In addition to local opposition, I believe the answer is that if the public knew the true cost of these plans, people would begin to question the wisdom of investing millions of dollars in reworking a power grid that wasn’t broken in the first place. They would ask hard questions about where money was being spent, and who was benefiting — questions the gov-
Aernor obviously doesn’t want raised.
In its infinite surreptitious reach, the state concealed in its latest budget the Renewable Action through Project Interconnection Deployment, or RAPID, Act, granting it the authority to overrule local and public input. The state Office of Renewable Energy Siting would have final say on project siting, even over community objections.
iGroups of so-called environmentalists, influenced by Hochul’s green agenda, have received millions of dollars to push the narrative that we need to move off fossil fuels now because the Earth is on fire. Before we go scorched-Earth, Let’s look at facts.
BESS facilities in residential and commercial areas.
t’s a mistake to plan for wide-scale solar and wind power in New York at this point.
Long Island water comes from aquifers that, if polluted, would jeopardize the health of millions. Hydrogen fluoride gas produced in these fires turns acidic when mixed with water, becoming acid rain. This acid, in large enough concentrations, can dissolve concrete. Would you or your children want to drink water this contaminated? Apparently, Hochul doesn’t care about such consequences in her drive to rapidly implement greenenergy projects.
impacting marine life, fishing, local businesses and communities. How future offshore wind catastrophes will affect shore towns, wildlife and commercial fishing isn’t known. But New Yorkers should realize that it’s a mistake, at this point, to plan the construction, let alone the funding, for dozens of gigawatts of solar and wind power — along with batteries 100 times the size of the world’s largest existing battery — and new transmission lines to tie all this to the existing grid.
The state took away local municipality and public involvement in the siting of renewable-energy projects and paused congestion pricing. Further, a report by the state’s Fire Safety Working Group falsely concluded that fires last year at three battery energy storage system facilities in New York state — which store the energy that wind turbines create — had no environmental impact, neglecting to include test results of hydrogen fluoride levels in the air, soil or water at those sites. What is even more disturbing is that the working group has written an inadequate code that allows for placement of
This act-now-and-monitor-later mentality, regardless of the consequences, does nothing to put minds at ease. To date, no robust engineering analysis suggests that Hochul’s RAPID Act plan will work. There has been no rigorous analysis. Instead, evidence seems to indicate that the state’s planned installations of solar arrays, wind turbines, battery facilities and transmission cables will not reliably power the grid, and will not prove safe or affordable.
Worth noting, in this critical context, is the Vineyard Wind offshore debacle off the coast of Nantucket last July, when a single turbine blade self-destructed, dropping 60 tons of plastic into the ocean and wreaking havoc, closing beaches and
Instead, we might better ask, first, who thought this was possible? and second, from empirical examples of places with significant intermittent energy — California and Germany — why did anyone think this would enable New York to cut fossil-fuel use and reliably and affordably power the grid?
Given the egregious overreach of Hochul’s RAPID Act, there should be an immediate halt to all of the Office of Renewable Energy Siting work as well as a prohibition on placing any renewableenergy facilities within residential communities and near schools. Taxpayers don’t want to be the subjects of a largescale energy experiment, or a class-action lawsuit, as a result of the “next big idea.”
Christina Kramer, a professional photographer and an adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology, is the founder and president of Protect Our Coast – Long Island, New York.
Helping Ukraine fight for justice
s the season of giving comes to a close, it’s important to reflect on not just all we have to be thankful for, but on those who still need our support. While there are certainly plenty of domestic issues, and Americans in need, we cannot forget the people of Ukraine, who are nearing the end of their third year of war with Russia.
The conflict, which has cost the lives of roughly 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers and over 11,000 civilians, has put on display the very real threat authoritarianism is posing to democracies all around the world today. And the people of Ukraine, who spent decades under Soviet rule and centuries under czarist rule before that, know how important their right to self-determination is, because they know what it means to live under a regime without rights.
Here in America, where we’ve had the luck and privilege to live under a democratic government for our entire history, it can be easy to brush aside these kinds of conflicts by claiming that certain areas
or certain cultures are used to conflict. We hear it about the Middle East all the time: so-called “experts” who assert that the region has “always been at war,” and that one ethnic group or another “doesn’t understand democracy.”
I don’t buy it.
As our Founding Fathers knew too well, human beings are born with an innate desire, and a right, to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. While we may think of these words as uniquely American, I’ve always believed that they were written not just with our country’s population in mind, but as a fundamental fact of the human condition. And the people of Ukraine have shown their desire for these universal rights with a determination and tenacity that has allowed this country of only 37 million to face down, and frequently defeat, a richer and larger nation with nearly five times its population. And Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own rights and sovereignty. They are the first line of defense against the deranged, ahistorical and plutocratic worldview that Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian oligarchs are so desperate to spread.
Zelensky chose to stay in Kyiv in 2022, when the capital city refused to fall, and every day since, his people have had one message for Putin and the world: We will not go quietly.
W e can’t turn our backs on a country that is fighting for its sovereignty.
When our nation was in its infancy and fighting for its existence, we relied heavily on the support not only of foreign nations like France and Spain, but on the extraordinary efforts of individuals from around the world who recognized that our fight for independence wasn’t just a local conflict, but a global one, that of freedom vs. tyranny.
The analogy isn’t perfect. Ukraine isn’t fighting to win its independence from its mother country, but is fighting instead to maintain its sovereignty in the face of foreign aggression. But the fact remains that its people, who have seen family members’, friends’ and loved ones’ lives destroyed by the aggression of a brutish dictator, deserve not only our respect and admiration, but our help.
There are hundreds of international charitable groups that are on the ground in Ukraine providing humanitarian aid, from UNICEF to the Red Cross. Other organizations, such as United Help Ukraine, Nova Ukraine and Razom for Ukraine, provide medical aid to tens of thousands of people and soldiers across the country.
There are also nearly 300,000 Ukrainian refugees now living in the United States, part of a diaspora of nearly 4 million Ukrainians, predominantly women, children and seniors, who have been forced to flee their homes in the face of ruthless Russian aggression. While many of these people have been kindly fostered by Americans, Europeans and people everywhere, there are always more people in need.
When Ukrainian President Volodymyr
You may think, “But I’m only one person — what could I possibly do?” And obviously, no one person can end this conflict overnight (except maybe Rocky Balboa). But there are plenty of ways for us to do our part.
To learn more about how to host Ukrainian refugees, visit SupportUkraineNow.org. Ukrainians are fighting not just for their own right to exist, but for the rights of people around the world struggling against conquest and the threat of extermination. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously declared, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” — and we can all do more to help Ukrainians restore peace in the country they love.
Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? WSheeline@liherald.com.
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Stepping into a new year with hope and resolve
anew year always arrives freighted with emotion. It carries the accumulated hopes, frustrations and lessons of the previous 12 months, paired with the tantalizing possibility of transformation. This year, as we look ahead, we find ourselves grappling with familiar challenges while daring to believe in the promise of better days.
One challenge we must confront is the growing fragmentation of our shared experiences. Increasingly, the global and local spheres seem to exist in parallel universes. A catastrophe halfway across the world — whether a climate disaster, political upheaval or humanitarian crisis — has the power to shape economies and policies closer to home, yet often feels distant, reduced to a fleeting headline.
Meanwhile, our more local and personal concerns — the cost of living, caring for family and doing well at work — demand urgent attention but risk being overshadowed by the constant churn of global issues. Bridging this gap requires a recalibration of priorities. The new year demands both outward-looking empathy and a renewed focus on strengthening the foundations of our own communities.
Economically, the year ahead will likely test the resilience of all levels of
letters
She’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods,’ too
To the Editor:
I agree with everything that Peter King wrote in “Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly” (Dec. 19-25).
Though I never had the chance to meet the cast of “Blue Bloods,” they did feel like family. There has to be a show for people like us — born in Queens, my grandfather was with the Manhattan mounted police in the late 1920s, my cousins were with the Port Authority Police during the Colin Ferguson bloodbath on the LIRR and on Sept. 11.
We love the Police Department and everything they stand for. They are our angels on earth in these crazy times. I appreciated grace before meals as a practicing Catholic. So there are many people who loved “Blue Bloods,” but I’m sure the network needed to try to make even more money! No one cares about the audience, just the dollar sign.
NANCY ALBERTELLI East Meadow
our government. Trust in institutions has eroded, but there are also glimmers of progress worth celebrating: advancements in green technology, a renewed emphasis on workers’ rights, and shifting societal attitudes toward mental health and well-being. These trends suggest that positive change, while slow, is possible.
We need to be optimistic, but that demands resolve. The climate crisis, for instance, is no longer a future threat but an immediate reality, underscored by the fires, floods and record-breaking temperatures of recent years. The urgency to act cannot be overstated, and yet real solutions remain politically fraught and logistically complex. We face the challenge of balancing personal responsibility with the recognition that systemic change requires collective action.
At the same time, the new year also offers a chance to reimagine what progress means. Growth, long equated with economic expansion, is being reconsidered in light of its environmental and social costs. These ideas challenge deeply entrenched narratives about success and prosperity, but they also open up the possibility of more inclusive, equitable futures.
Many of us also enter 2025 grappling with uncertainty. The relentless pace of
technological change, the aftershocks of a pandemic and the simple unpredictability of life can feel overwhelming. Yet amid this turbulence, we find moments of connection and meaning. A neighbor’s kindness, a shared laugh, the rediscovery of an old passion — these small, often overlooked moments remind us why we persevere.
How do we handle the bad while making room for the good? We need to balance action with rest and contemplation, and ambition with gratitude. This requires recognizing that while we cannot solve every problem, we can contribute to their solutions.
As we step into the new year, we should resolve to move beyond empty platitudes. Instead of vague aspirations for “better days,” let’s strive for tangible progress: a stronger sense of community, a commitment to justice, and a willingness to adapt to changing realities. We should allow ourselves moments of joy, not just as a distraction from life’s difficulties, but also as a reminder of its possibilities.
It isn’t easy. There are always setbacks and frustrations, but there are also breakthroughs, large and small, that remind us of our capacity to endure, to grow and to create a better future. The new year’s gift gives us the opportunity to begin anew.
L.I. deserves its fair share of transportation funding
Long Island is known for many things, from our beautiful beaches and lighthouses to historic sites, great seafood and wineries. Yet, beneath the charm and attractions, Long Island grapples with a major obstacle: an aging and insufficient transportation network that can’t keep pace with our growing population.
As Long Island continues to grow, our region faces a challenge that threatens both its economy and quality of life, with a transportation and infrastructure network that is underfunded, poorly maintained, and inadequate to meet the needs of our residents.
Yes, but the show was clearly fiction
To the Editor:
My father, like Mr. King’s, wore NYPD’s blue. Like Mr. King, I consider ‘Blue Bloods’ more nuanced than many cop shows. But his speculations about imagined opponents of the show, and his “unanswered questions,” are dubious.
No doubt, the cast members are all outstanding people and first-class actors, but they were performers acting out dramatic scripts. It’s all fiction, and we can enjoy “as if” for the hour, but to extend the imaginary past the credits is delusional.
Americans generally tend to romanticize both our lawmen and our criminals, clouding our view of reality. Our fiction is out of sync with our nonfiction, and we get confused. If real police were “Blue Bloods” police, we would not have had a Bernie Kerik as commissioner; there would be no need for civilian complaint review boards, body cameras and millions spent on misconduct settlements; and less turnover in the top brass. “Courtesy cards” would be in museums, not wallets.
Distractions from reality allow speculations like Mr. King’s suggestion that scriptwriters were pressured “to portray cops in a negative light,” as if any producers care at all about what viewers see between the commercials. There are other shows for that. Equally dangerous is his question about the series’ cancellation. Instead of noting the fact that the noble cast accepted a 25 percent pay cut to subsidize season 14, Mr. King conjures the demon of “woke” from nothing.
Currently, transportation funding is overseen by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council, which includes New York City and several surrounding counties. This arrangement leaves Long Island competing for resources with the largest metropolitan center in the county, a challenge that often means Long Island’s needs are underrepresented and underfunded.
approach to transportation planning, empower Long Island to secure its fair share of federal transportation funding, streamline project execution, and drive long-term economic growth.
we have the population and economic output of many states, but not the infrastructure.
The Long Island region’s share of transportation funding has dropped from 23 percent to just 6 percent. We’re in dire need of a fairer allocation that meets the region’s unique needs. This is why we need a dedicated Nassau Suffolk Metropolitan Planning Organization.
The creation of a Long Island-specific planning organization would ensure that our region has a clear, coordinated
Letters
It’s true that the show’s fans will always have the memories, but we must hope our nostalgia doesn’t distract from the realities of 21st century law and its enforcement.
BRIAN KELLY Rockville Centre
The MTA should rethink its spending priorities
To the Editor:
Long Island Rail Road commuters should be concerned about insufficient funds being earmarked to bring bridges, viaducts, tunnels and other basic infrastructure that are in poor or marginal condition up to a state of good repair in the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s proposed $68 billion 2025-2029 Five Year Capital Plan. This also applies to Metro-North Railroad and New York City Transit.
It’s questionable whether $600 million is sufficient funding for LIRR critical infrastructure projects under the proposed plan. Can this eliminate the growing backlog of critical infrastructure repair? Too many critical capital assets remain in daily service beyond their anticipated useful life. There is still a $33 billion shortfall to fully fund the plan.
Safety, state of good repair, and reliable, on-time performance with a minimum of service disruptions at a fair price should be higher priorities than system expansion projects. The $7.7 billion Second Avenue Subway Phase 2, the $5.5 billion Brooklyn-Queens light-rail Interborough Express and the $3.1 billion Metro North Bronx East Penn Station Access projects all
Long Island would have direct access to apply for federal dollars, bypassing state-level bottlenecks and allowing for tailored projects that address our specific challenges, including solutions to the Oakdale merge, the deadly Southern State Parkway and the electrification of the Port Jefferson line of the Long Island Rail Road.
Smaller regions of the state — including Ithaca with a population of about 107,000 — have their own transportation planning organization that allows them to apply for federal funding directly. And yet, Long Island’s 3 million
residents — more people than most major American cities — are grouped in with New York City and other regions. This is more than a call for funding; it’s a call to recognize Long Island’s unique position as a vital economic and cultural hub. Our region has the population and economic output of many U.S. states — we need infrastructure that reflects that.
Long Islanders share a vision for better roads, bridges, and tunnels, expanded transit options, reduced congestion, and an improved quality of life. We deserve a Metropolitan Planning Organization to secure our region’s future. Thanks to Assemblyman Steve Stern and Senator Monica Martinez for introducing legislation—now we need the legislature to act and pass A.10705/S.9918 and make this vision a reality.
Mark Herbst is executive director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association.
Framework by Tim Baker
need to be put on hold. Funding for all three would be better spent on critical infrastructure projects benefiting over 4 million NYC Transit subway, 200,000-plus LIRR and 200,000-plus Metro North daily commuters. MTA Chairman Janno Lieber and board members have a fiduciary responsibility to protect the interests of riders
and taxpayers.
LARRY PENNER Great Neck
Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.
At the Electric Light Parade — Long Beach
marC HerBst
