HERALD Massapequa
Carolyn James/Herald
Shown at the event, from right to left starting on top step are: Antoinette LaBonte,1st VP; Frances Cloud,president; Tammy Lestingi, member; JoAnn Hundermark, treasurer & director of child welfare; Lynne Molloy, director; Jennifer Gallub-Pravato, recording secretary; Del Genovese, advisor to child welfare and Anne Reynolds, historian.
Massapequa Woman’s Club marks a century of serving the community
Members celebrate with anniversary luncheon
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
The Woman’s Club of Massapequa has just embarked on its next 100 years of service to the community.
The year 2024 marked the centennial of service by the club, whose objectives are to promote educational, social and civic development.
The milestone was celebrated at a luncheon late last year at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club. Approximately 50 women and supporters of the organization
attended.
Opening remarks were made by Jennifer Gallub-Pravato and closing remarks were made by the Woman’s Club President Frances Cloud. Cathy Reilly was the emcee and the club’s history was outlined by Maureen Larisch and Cathy Reilly.
The 100th Anniversary Committee consisted of Antoinette La Bonte and Joann Hundermark, venue co-ordinators; Frances Cloud, Del Genovese, Mary Kulkin, Tammy Lestingi, Lynne Molloy, Cathy Reilly, Fran Siracusa, Jennifer Galub-
MPK outlines work done with U.S. recovery $$
By MIKE POLANSKY Correspondent
The Village of Massapequa Park just completed a federally mandated review of the $1.7 million it received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and then outlined how the funds were spent at its recent board meeting.
ARPA, a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package passed in 2021, was designed to accelerate the recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. It included $350 billion for states, municipalities, counties, tribes and territories, with $130.2 billion earmarked for local governments, split evenly between municipalities and counties.
In Massapequa Park, the largest portion of the funding—more than $830,000—was used to purchase new vehicles. This included two bucket trucks, a flatbed truck with a plow, a pickup truck with a plow, a Pelican Sweeper, a Chevy Trax, and a Code Enforcer car.
The village’s parks, particularly Brady Park, received $266,618 of the ARPA funds.
This allocation included $100,908 for construction of a new pickleball court at Brady Park in 2022, $98,333 for a new playground at the park in 2023, and $22,000 for resurfacing the park’s basketball courts in 2024. Additional park improvements included new picnic tables, bike racks, ballfield upgrades, and new fencing at both Brady and Colleran parks.
Another $222,793 of the ARPA funds was spent on resurfacing roadways throughout the village, while $26,476 was allocated for improvements at Village Square. And $25,344 was used to upgrade plumbing, install hands-free water fountains, and make other improvements to the Senior Center.
Mayor Daniel Pearl expressed satisfaction with the way the funds were spent.
“Since receiving federal ARPA funds in 2021, the Village Board and I have worked closely to ensure every dollar was wisely spent for our residents, within the federal government’s parameters and deadlines,” he said.
He added, “We worked with our administration and departments to assess their
Members and guests at the celebration included (front row l. to r.) Valerie Kirchmann, Linda Meyer, Dorothy McMillin, Lois Schmitt, Madeline Strasser and (back row l. to r.) Denise Strothman, Linda Hanna, Gail Klubnick and Susan Baeyens.
Massapequa Woman’s Club: 100 years and going strong
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Pravato, Judy Guardiola, Maureen Larisch, Linda Meza, Monica Rea,
Anne Reynolds and Fran Bassett. For more information on the Woman’s Club of Massapequa.
Dr. Edward Salina Jr., named Superintendent of the Year
Dr. Edward A. Salina Jr., Plainedge School Superintendent, was honored by the New York State Association for Computers and Technologies in Education as Superintendent of the Year. The award is for superintendents who have implemented or demonstrated the use of technology to improve education. The ceremonies took place Nov. 23
MPK Village outlines projects completed with ARPA money
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
needs and make sure these funds were put to use to best serve our community, including upgrades to our parks and public spaces.”
Deputy Mayor Tina Schiaffino also praised the allocation, highlighting the new wrought-iron fencing at Colleran Park. “This gem of a park is a lovely place for anyone to sit and enjoy the water,” she said. “The ARPA funding was very well managed and met all the deadlines.”
In other business, the board:
- authorized the mayor to sign a
Community Development Block Grant between Nassau County and the village to accept $80,000 in Residential Rehabilitation funds.
- approved a bid for the village’s 2006 GMC dump truck.
- approved sign permits for Sephora, 4966 Merrick Rd., Massapequa Park.
The next Village Board meetings will be held Jan., Mondays, Jan. 13 and 27. A work session begins at 6 p.m., followed by the regular board meeting at 7 p.m., Village Hall, 151 Front St., Massapequa Park.
Carolyn James/Herald
Massapequa Takes Action Coalition: underage drinking campaign relaunched to address social host law and mental health risks
The 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.
With the holiday season just ending, MTAC reminds everyone that times of celebration present challenges related to social drinking, heightened stress, and emotional triggers. These factors may make 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.
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.
The Massapequa Takes Action Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing substance use and promoting mental and physical wellbeing in the Massapequa community. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, MTAC empowers individuals and families to make healthy choices that
Toddler arts and crafts program returning to
Oyster Bay in February
Oyster Bay Town Councilman Tom Hand announced that the popular Toddler Arts & Crafts Program will return this winter, beginning Feb. 11. The six-week 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 town’s Toddler Arts & Crafts program is a wonderful way to support your toddler’s development by nurturing their artistic expression,” Hand said. “This program offers children a chance to meet peers and explore their creativity. Highlights include holiday crafts and ceramics.”
The program will run for six weeks. Residents must register their toddler for one class per week.
Classes will be held on the following schedule:
• Tuesdays: 10 a.m. for 2-year-olds; 11 a.m. for 3- and 4-year-olds at the Hicksville Athletic Center
• Wednesdays: 10 a.m. for 2-year-olds; 11 a.m. for 3- and 4-year-olds at the Ice-
Skating Center Community Room in Bethpage
• Thursdays: 10 a.m. for 2-year-olds; 11 a.m. for 3- and 4-year-olds at the IceSkating Center Community Room in Bethpage
Registration is now open online through the Parks Portal at oysterbaytown.com/portal. Space is limited, and registration will close when the program reaches full capacity. Registration is first-come, first-served. Each class is approximately 45 minutes. The cost is $35 per child for town residents, and $45 for children whose caregiver is a town resident but the child is not.
To register, a birth certificate and proof of residency (such as a tax or utility bill) will be required. A guardian must remain with the child during the class. A smock and supplies will be provided.
The Toddler Arts & Crafts Program is run by the Town’s Parks Department, Recreation Division. For more information, call (516) 797-7945.
contribute to a stronger, more resilient community.
Son charged in stabbing death of his mother in Massapequa
Nassau County Police have arrested Jeremy Lopez Ramirez, 27, charging him with the murder of his mother, Josefina Ramirez Montero, 57, who was stabbed to death in Massapequa on Christmas Eve.
The mother and son lived at the same address at 5714 Old Sunrise Highway. 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.
Police said the suspect has a history of crime and violence and has served time in jail. He was arraigned at First District Court, 99 Main St. Hempstead. Suspect
Lopez Ramirez
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THURSDAY, JANUARY 9
•Massapequa School District Board of Education Meeting: 8 p.m., Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa.
•Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6333.
• 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 10
•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 11
• 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 12
•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 14
•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)-2207808. All calls are confidential.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15
•Farmingdale School District Board of Education Meeting: 8 p.m., Welden E. Howitt Middle School, 70 Vancott Ave., Farmingdale. For more information, call (516) 434-5140.
• 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
Jeremy
If furry friends could make New Year resolutions...
As another year begins, it's time to revisit New Year's resolutions. Instead of the usual promises about people striving to become better pet parents, let's flip the script. This year, our pets should make resolutions that might improve their behavior and attitude, making them more cooperative with their devoted caretakers. Here's what they might say:
Dog and Cat
New Year's Resolutions:
I will try to let my humans sleep past 5:34 a.m. each morning. If I'm a cat, I will refrain from perching on my human's chest and pawing at her eyelids. If I'm a dog, I'll resist nudging my human with my nose or drooling on him to wake up. However, I will not wait much longer than the designated time for food.
I will do my best not to get sick or injured unless it happens during regular vet hours, so my owners don't have to deal with the expense and hassle of a 24-hour clinic in the middle of the night or on weekends and holidays.
I resolve to behave when there are visitors, especially if they're not fond of animals. If I'm a cat, I will not walk across the table, sip from a guest's martini, upchuck a hairball in front of everyone, or use a guest's leg as a scratching post. If I'm a dog, I will not knock down featherweight
guests with my enthusiastic greetings, steal napkins from laps, or snatch hotdogs at barbecues. Your friends will leave unscathed— physically and emotionally.
As much as I feel humiliated, I will let you dress me up for holidays and special occasions, as long as you take your silly photo and immediately remove the outfit.
Pets, Pets, Pets...
stand these behaviors are embarrassing and not great for the hospital's reputation.
I promise to take the medicine you give me, even if it tastes like glue or cheese laced with bleach. I won't spit out the liquid, fling the pill against the wall, or cough it up later. I understand you give me medicine because you love me, and I know you spent hard-earned money on it.
JOANNE ANDERSON
I will let you or a professional groom me and cut my nails without causing a huge protest. As for the nail clipping, make sure the person doing it knows what they're doing so I don't bleed to death from clumsy handling.
I will behave at the vet. I will be a model pet citizen in the waiting room. I won't scream "bloody murder," hyperventilate, sniff other pets, or plant my feet on the floor to avoid going into the exam room. I under -
is looking for...
EDITOR/REPORTER
Dog Specific New Year's Resolutions
When you take me on walks, I promise not to drag you down the block or into traffic. I'll stop to smell the roses but will resist rolling in anything that smells questionable. When we meet other dogs, I'll try to be amiable— even if some dogs make my hackles rise. However, if I'm anti-social with other dogs, let's keep those encounters to a minimum.
I'll try my best to refrain from counter-surfing, but please don't tempt me. Don't leave an
unattended rib roast defrosting by the sink, or cupcakes cooling on the table. There's only so much self-control I can muster.
I will try not to chew anything valuable to you. Please put your Louis Vuitton bag out of reach and don't coat the remote control with chili-dipped fingers.
I will continue to be housebroken. But please be reasonable—don't leave me alone for 12 hours a day without access to a bathroom. Nature calls, and sometimes there's no warning.
Dogs for Adoption at Babylon Animal Shelter (631-643-9270)
Two adorable male dogs are waiting for a home at the Babylon Animal Shelter, located at 80 New Highway, North Amityville. Potato (#24-493) is a Corgi clone, and Jangle (#24-487) is a scruffy four-year-old Terrier.
Babylon Shelter Poster Pets:
PotatoMale Corgi Clone.
Registration for co-ed fitness classes underway
Residents who are interested in maintaining or improving their levels of fitness can register for the Town’s popular Co-Ed Fitness Classes at the Hicksville Athletic Center. Classes will kick off in January 2025 and run for 10 weeks. They are offered to individuals 18 years of age or older.
•Ballroom Dancing: Saturdays, from 7pm to 8pm, beginning January 11th
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
“The Town’s popular co-ed recreational programs provide a great outlet for our residents to exercise and stay in shape while making new friends,” said Councilwoman Laura Maier. “These fun classes offer an opportunity to stay physically active, creating an optimal environment for fitness and forging new friendships!”
This winter, residents can participate in a variety of fitness classes that will be held at the Hicksville Athletic Center:
•Yoga: Residents can choose their session from the following: Saturdays (beginning January 11th) from 9am to 10am.Registration is available online by visiting oysterbaytown.com/sports. Residents must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and a valid identification card such as a driver’s license. Non-residents may register at a slightly higher fee. Mats will not be provided; patrons must bring their own mats to Yoga and Pilates. The schedule is subject to change. If a session is cancelled, makeup day(s) will be attempted. For more information, or to inquire about special holiday scheduling, please call (516) 7977945 or email tobparks@oysterbay-ny. gov
WEB SITE: www.massapequapost.com / www.liherald.com/Babylon
■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: cjames@liherald.com
■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 329 E-mail: cjames@liherald.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: circ@massapequapost.com ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com
■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@massapequapost.com
JangleMale scruffy Terrier Mix.
Health department officials caution residents about danger from raccoons who may have contracted a virus
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
A swath of sick and possibly sick raccoons have been sighted recently in Massapequa and Amityville, causing state and local health authorities to raise the caution flag.
One raccoon scratched a resident in Massapequa Park on Dec. 29 and, when captured, tested positive for rabies, according to the Nassau County Department of Health.
And Amityville police say they received several calls last month reporting the presence of raccoons that were acting strangely.
In the Massapequa incident, the resident who was bitten received immediate medical care and post-exposure prophylaxis, the health department said. It was the second rabid raccoon incident in Nassau County in two days; the other occurred in West Hempstead on Dec. 30.
In a warning note, Nassau County Health Commissioner Irina Gelman said in a Jan. 3 news release, “While prior cases were largely identified in the southwestern portion of Nassau County, these recent positive cases suggest an eastern spread of rabies activity.”
Dr. Gilman added, “It’s critical that we remain vigilant by staying alert for
unusual animal behavior, avoiding contact with wild or stray animals, and ensuring our pets’ rabies vaccinations are current.”
The commissioner’s warning followed a report in early December from the Department of Environmental Control that there was a canine-distemper outbreak on Long Island and that raccoons can carry this disease and potentially infect unvaccinated dogs. Once a raccoon contracts distemper and becomes severely ill, there is no treatment, said health officials. Rabies is also a fatal disease for raccoons.
In the Amityville incidents, a woman on Avon Place called police Dec. 28 to report that she accidently stepped on a raccoon that was outside her back door. The raccoon then attacked her, but she told police she did not believe she was bitten. The raccoon remained outside her door and Officers Bryan Burton and Brian Governanti caught it and placed it in a wooded area.
A second call to police that day reported there was a raccoon near Boudette Place that appeared to be sick.
Two days earlier, a resident from Carleton Avenue called police to report that there was an apparently sick raccoon on her property. Units responded and re-
moved the animal.
Two weeks earlier, a resident from Lafayette Avenue called police to report that a baby raccoon was sitting in the roadway near her home. Officers Jason Oliveri and Carley Fahey responded and relocated the animal.
While it was not determined that the raccoons spotted in Amityville were sick, the DEC is urging the public not
to feed raccoons and avoid contact with wild or feral animals. It is also urging dog owners to make sure that their pets are up to date on their vaccinations, particular for rabies and distemper, which is the most effective way to protect them.
Residents who are concerned about this issue or who have concerns can reach the DEC at 631-444-0200.
HERALD SPORTS
Hofstra wrestling begins exciting new era
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
Hofstra wrestling alum Jamie Franco is now leading the program where he thrived on the mats as a student-athlete looking to raise it to new heights.
Franco, a three-time NCAA Championship qualifier at Hofstra in the early 2010s, was named the Pride’s 13th- head coach on July 1, 2024 replacing Dennis Papadatos after he took an administrative role in the university’s athletic department. It marks another return home for Franco, who served as an assistant coach under Papadatos from 2016 to 2023 before spending a season on the wrestling staff at Columbia University last year.
“I always wanted to be a head coach and to be able to get this opportunity was a dream come true for me,” said Franco, who won 75 matches at Hofstra including a conference title at 133 pounds in 2013. “To come back to my alma mater and get my first head coaching gig at Hofstra was really special.”
After graduating Hofstra in 2014 with a business degree, Franco was operations manager of the famed Longo and Weidman MMA Training Center in Garden City where Hofstra wrestling legend Chris Weidman trained when he held a UFC middleweight title from 2013 to 2015. Franco maintains a close relationship with Weidman and recently brought his longtime trainer Ray Longo in a cross training session with the wrestlers.
“I think it’s always good to get these guys training outside of just wrestling to make them physically and mentally tougher,” Franco said.
Franco inherited a roster with plenty of former Long Island high school wrestling standouts including 133-pound Ryan Arbeit, who won a county title for Wantagh in 2022. The redshirt freshman was voted a team captain in October along with Massapequa High School product Chase Liardi, Justin Hoyle of Maple Valley, Wash and Ross McFarland of Pennellville, N.Y.
Two of Arbeit’s former Wantagh teammates are also on the Hofstra roster including red-shirt junior Mat Rogers, who won a New York State Championship in 2020 and Joe Russo, who was sidelined last season after joining the Pride from Nassau Community College. Russo was sidelined at the beginning of the season with an injury, but Franco is hoping he can make a contribution as the dual meet schedule heats up.
The Nassau County South Shore presence on the Hofstra mats also includes 165-pound redshirt junior Eric Shindel, who was an All-County wrestler at JFK High School in Bellmore in 2020 and 2021.
Fellow 165-pounder Kyle Mosher, who won a New York State title with South Side High School in Rockville Centre, joined the Pride this season as a graduate student after competing as an undergraduate student
at Columbia under Franco.
“He is looking really good early in the season so we’re looking to keep building on it,” said Franco of Mosher, who placed eighth in the 30-team Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational on Dec. 7. “He’s on everyone’s radar now.
Franco recorded his first dual meet win as Hofstra head coach with a 21-12 victory against Duke at home on Nov. 16. The Pride entered the new year at 4-3 and will next be in action on Jan. 9 with an Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) road match at Binghamton. The Pride then has home matches in the Mack Sports Complex scheduled Jan. 26 against Penn starting at noon and Feb. 2 versus Franklin & Marshall at 4 p.m.
The Pride will look to make some noise at the EIWA Championships at Lehigh on March 7-8 and qualify at least three of four wrestlers for the NCAA Championships in Philadelphia from March 20-22.
“The guys are growing every week,” Franco said. “I think we’re going to see a more gritty team for us in the EIWAs so I feel like we’re going to get a bunch of placers there this year.”
Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications Massapequa native Chase Liardi is one of Hofstra’s captains.
Ross McFarland and the Pride are looking to make noise under new coach Jamie Franco, a Hofstra wrestling alumn.
The Plainedge school district held its annual Season of Lights ceremony on Dec. 12. The Plainedge Best Buddies Club and the chorus members from grades 6-12 provided a festive sing-along. The Brian Moore Foundation and the Plainedge Federation of Teachers all worked to make it a special night. And, of course, Santa came, courtesy of the Bethpage and North Massapequa fire departments, who helped Santa make his way to Plainedge from the North Pole. Local officials including those from the Town of Oyster Bay and Assemblyman John Mikulin joined in the festivities. Making it special: Plainedge teachers’ group holds a bright Season of Lights ceremony
Fairfield Elementary in Massapequa celebrates the holidays
Shining a light on Hanukkah traditions
Kindergartners and their fifth-grade buddies were recently immersed in the history and traditions of Hanukkah at Fairfield Elementary School in Massapequa. Together, they completed craft projects and played games while learning about the significance of the Jewish holiday that lasts eight days and nights.
Christine Gooden’s fifth graders visited Tiana Parrella’s kindergarten class for a dreidel game. Each side had a number and students had to place coins in the middle of the table based on their spin. The activity helped them learn
about the Hanukkah tradition while helping the kindergartners practice addition.
In Janine George’s classroom, her kindergartners were assisted by fifth graders from Natalie Suckow’s class for a menorah craft. Students worked in pairs to cut out and glue the different pieces together, while exploring the significance of the candelabrum.
The kindergartners get together monthly with their fifth-grade buddies for seasonal projects and the older students enjoy taking on a leadership role.
Above: Kindergartners and fifth grade buddies played a dreidel game as part of their study of Hanukkah traditions.
Roght: Olivia Matarmalino, left, and Fiona Greene worked together to create a menorah craft.
A scoop of family time with a dash of math
Baking cookies is a favorite holiday activity in many households, and students and their families got a head start on this time-honored tradition in December at Fairfield Elementary School in Massapequa.
The third-grade classrooms were abuzz in the afternoon as parents and other family members joined students to fill jars with the ingredients for chocolate chip cookies. They worked together to add precise amounts of flour, sugar, salt, baking powder,
chocolate chips and other ingredients, which had to be layered in a specific order. Jars were then sealed, wrapped in a bow and brought home. The ingredients and supplies were provided by class parents.
The event has been a tradition in third grade classes for more than a decade. In addition to fostering the homeschool connection, this activity helped students work on their math skills as they measured the ingredients needed for their chocolate chip cookies
Kindergartner Robbie Cerciello had help from Landon Blinder for the dreidel game.
Students showed off their completed jars to take home, which featured precise amounts of ingredients layered in order.
Alessia DeVictoria with her mother, Alessia DeVictoria, and Jackson Rouse with his mother, Jessica Rouse, sealed up their jars to bring the ingredients home for baking.
Third graders were joined by family members to prepare jars of chocolate chip cookie ingredients on Dec. 13.
Charles J. Trautwein, longtime social studies teacher, at 86
Charles J. Trautwein, a dedicated social studies teacher in the West Islip School District for 35 years, died Oct. 19, 2024, in Palm Coast, Florida. He was 86.
Charles J. Trautwein
Trautwein was remembered by former students and colleagues as an educator who focused not only on teaching history, but also on helping students develop critical thinking skills, express themselves through writing, and understand the complexities of the world around them.
Born in New York City, he was the son of Charles O. and Rita (Miller) Trautwein. The family moved to Bayport in 1950, where he graduated from Bayport High School in 1956. He attended Hofstra University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1960. He later earned two master’s degrees— one in education and another in history. Trautwein took pride in teaching
his students more than just historical facts. He emphasized the importance of life skills, particularly the ability to write clear, coherent essays. He also served as the advisor to the Happy Wanderer’s Club, organizing student trips to Europe.
“He loved his job,” said his wife, Sandy. “He always said he didn’t make a million bucks, wasn’t famous, and didn’t need to see his name on a book. He felt accomplished by doing what he did.”
After retiring in 1995, Trautwein and his wife moved to Palm Coast, where he remained active in the community. He served on the board of supervisors for the Grand Haven Development District and was a dedicated member of St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church, where he
WI Class of ‘75 holding reunion
The West Islip High School Class of 1975 is holding a class reunion July 19 at Captain Bill’s restaurant in Bay Shore. For details, visit/join the organization’s Facebook page: West Islip High School Class of 1975. Or call 516-456-3207 and leave a message.
also served on the church council.
In addition to his wife, Trautwein is survived by his daughter, Christine (Nick) Todaro of St. Peters, Missouri; his son, John Trautwein of Middle Island, New York; his granddaughter Danielle (Chance) Wallace of St. Peters, Missouri; granddaughter Amanda (Connor) Barnard of Warrenton, Missouri; and three great-grandchildren, Mia Mae, Ava Rose, and Sawyer Lee. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Jan) Trautwein of Venice, Florida, and their children: Sam and his wife, Taqiyya; and Kate Bloomer and her husband, Matt. Other survivors include his sister-in-law and brother-inlaw, Gail and David Farrell, and their children: Katherine Corbin de Mangoux and her husband, Corbin; and David and
his wife, Tanya, and their children Rory and Aoife, and Susie Turchetti and her husband, Guy. Several cousins, grandnieces, and grandnephews also survive him.
He was predeceased by his sister, Rita Springsteen, and her husband, Larry, and their daughter, Sharon Brose. Funeral services were conducted by Heritage Funeral and Cremation Services in Bunnell, Florida. A memorial service will be held at St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church in the spring of 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to St. Mark by the Sea Lutheran Church, 303 Palm Coast Parkway NE, Palm Coast, FL 32137, or to a favorite charity.
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. We will also consider publishing clear black and white or color photos with the articles.
Rd. & Cedar Shore Dr. Massapequa, NY 516-798-1122
Rector
With magic in every note, Farmingdale SD concludes a vibrant winter concert season
The winter concerts in the Farmingdale School District have sounded their final glorious note.
This season, brimming with anticipation, kicked off with a parade down Main Street, then dazzled everyone with a medley of daytime and evening concerts, punctuated by festive tree lightings, heartfelt performances at local nursing homes, and a memorable journey to the Rockefeller Center for Tuba Christmas.
In all, there were more than 20 performances. Those did not include the spontaneous morning melodies that filled the district as students treated early birds to a musical serenade on the days leading up to the holiday recess. These impromptu performances became cherished moments, bringing unexpected joy and a festive spirit to hallways and classrooms.
The dedication of the students and their teachers was evident not only in the scheduled concerts but also in such delightful surprises that brightened the winter days.
“There’s truly nothing that compares to the winter concert season in Farmingdale,” said Greg Warnokowski, director of fine and performing arts. “Each performance is a culmination of hard work and passion, and it’s rewarding to see how it all comes together to create something magical. The joy and pride on the faces of our students as they take the stage is something to behold.”
The arrival of the new year heralds fresh musical experiences. January has the Tri-M Senior Recital set to mesmerize audiences with various student musicians. February will feature the All-District Band Concert and the Mid-Winter Concert, both ready to highlight the talents and dedication of students and staff.
In Farmingdale, the music program is more than just performances; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric. As the school district continues to support its ever-growing music program, the future shines brightly with promise and potential, Warnokowski said.
Photos Courtesy/ Farmingdale School District
The Farmingdale School District’s winter concerts concluded in high style.
Nominate a student under 16 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.
We want to hear about the extraordinary young individuals who are driving change in their communities.
The award will be presented at the 2025 LI Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island powered by Reworld in February.
Your nomination could inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps!
Submit a nomination of approximately 200 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?
Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.
Massapequa’s Lockhart Elementary beats record
of 36 years with their Make-A-Wish fundraiser
The students, staff and families of Lockhart Elementary School broke a fundraising record of 36 years in collecting money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation last year.
The total, which cleared $15,000, was announced at the annual concert on Dec. 20. The donation will allow a 3-year-old named Lucas to go to Disney World.
In a six-week fundraiser, which featured much enthusiasm from the school community, money was raised from a walk-a-thon, the sale of bracelets, PTA raffles, online donations and other means. An annual tradition since 1989, the smallest school in the Massapequa School District continues to show its big heart with the Make-A-Wish fundraiser.
Principal Michael DeLuca, after speaking about the success of thefundraiser, turned the program over to the musicians. The orchestra, conducted by Alison Pearl, performed three songs. The finale featured a surprise for the guests, as halfway through the Trans-Siberian Orchestra-inspired “Christmas Canon,” fourth and fifth grade chorus members stood up with battery-operated candles and began singing along.
Fifth grade chorus students then sang a trio of holiday tunes under the direction of Kathleen Dyckman, including the highly-anticipated “Holiday Lights.” The band, led by Nicole Boyle,
wrapped up the show with a medley of Christmas and Hanukkah songs.
Then the grand total from the fundraiser was announced, when student council members Ryan Hughes and Vincent Pistillo unveiled the giant check for $15,325.
Accepting the donation was Joan Siedlecki, a volunteer wish granter from the foundation.
“The generosity of many will go far in helping a little boy live his Make-A-Wish dream,” DeLuca said. “I am so proud of how everyone at Lockhart and in Massapequa came together to make this possible.”
Assistant Principal Louisa Vecchione, who remembers the Make-A-Wish fundraiser from her time as a student in the school, noted, “Wishes can be the spark that helps children believe anything is possible.”
Fifth grade teacher and student council adviser Diane Bacheller added that many students in the audience had parents who attended Lockhart and participated in the fundraiser decades ago. That’s one of many reasons why, she said, it is important to keep the tradition alive.
“Being involved in granting wishes is about helping others,” Bacheller added, “which in turn, teaches us life-long lessons in giving, selflessness, caring, kindness, happiness and joy.”
All photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
From left: student council officers Vincent Pistillo and Ryan Hughes with the recordbreaking check, Principal Michael DeLuca, Make-A-Wish Foundation wish granter Joan Siedlecki, Assistant Principal Louisa Vecchione and student council adviser Diane Bacheller.
A holiday singalong for students and staff closed out the annual Make-A-Wish concert.
Members of the chorus joined the fifth grade orchestra for a performance on “Christmas Canon” in the style of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
The fifth grade band performed a trio of songs for the audience.
STEPPING OUT
Step inside an epic adventure with Anna, Elsa and the Madrigal clan moments on ice
By Karen Bloom
Welcome the New Year in true Disney style. The latest Disney ice extravaganza arrives at UBS Arena in Elmont ready to enchant families once again. This time around the spotlight is on two of the newest tales — beloved by Disneyphiles in the Disney canon: “Frozen” and “Encanto.” Audiences can share in the special joy of these captivating adventures when Disney On Ice’s glides into UBS Arena, now through Jan. 12.
Families will be transported into two of Disney’s most popular films as the world of Anna, Elsa, Mirabel, and the Madrigal family unfolds up close. These adored characters are, of course, joined by Mickey and his crew. Along with Minnie, Donald and Goofy, audiences will sing-along to everyone’s favorite songs interpreted through world-class skating, aerial acrobatics and dynamic special effects.
• Now through Sunday, Jan.12; times vary
• Tickets start at $35, pre-show character experience also available for a fee; purchase at ticketmaster.com or disneyonice.com or in person at box office
• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont
As always, the atmosphere is electric from the get-go. From the opening segment with Mickey and the gang, we quickly arrive in Arendelle to the delight of all the “Annas” and “Elsas” in the audience. Olaf, the lovable snowman who likes warm hugs and all things summer, narrates the story everyone knows so well. Artful skating (what could be more fitting?) transports families to the snowy kingdom to be a part of Anna’s adventure to find Elsa, whose icy powers unleashed an eternal winter. Kristoff and Sven take audiences along as they encounter wintry conditions in a race to bring back summer.
Elsa’s solo segment skated to “Let It Go” is among the highlights of the show’s first half. “It’s a big moment,” says Rebekah Johnson, who — off ice at this point — is exhilarated by the audience response.
At age 19, Johnson is experiencing the Disney magic for the first time as a performer. She joined the cast in September as an ensemble skater and couldn’t be happier.
Skating since she was two-years-old, the St. Paul, Minn.-based Johnson says “I always knew I was meant to be a show skater.”
Like her many castmates, she’s embraced Disney from a young age.
“I’ve always loved the princesses and ‘Frozen’,” she enthuses. “I’ve dreamed about skating for Disney for so long.”
From her first Disney On Ice experience as a young child to revisiting the spectacle as a teenager more recently, she knew this was where she belonged.
“When I saw the show again, I thought ‘this is so cool.’ I still dreamed about being a princess.”
While Johnson is not quite there yet, she’s relishing every moment as the youngest member of the cast and every moment on ice.
“I’ve wanted to skate for Disney for so long,” she continues. “It’s all very surreal, but it’s real!”
After a very Frozen adventure, the show’s second half takes everyone to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia where we meet the Madrigals, that extraordinary family who live in
Yacht Rock Revue
The kings of ‘70s tribute hit the road with an authentic throwback to the era. Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites listeners on a nostalgic voyage through the ‘70s and’80s sun-soaked melodies. The Atlantabased 10-piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the genre. Their original album “Escape Artist” is a bold homage to this iconic sound. YRR continues to captivate audiences nationwide with their infectious energy and unabashedly joyous performances. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as pivotal 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.
Friday and Saturday, Jan.10-11, 8 p.m. $55, $40, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Mirabel tells the tale of her amazing family and her journey to save the casita — her enchanted family home — alongside her sisters: Isabela, whose perfection radiates with her ability to make plants grow and flowers bloom with every step, and Luisa, with the gift of super strength that she uses to help her village move buildings and reroute rivers.
For the first time live, everyone can witness Tia Pepa, who can control the weather with her emotions; her husband Felix; their daughter Dolores, with her gift to hear; and Bruno, the mysterious and misunderstood Madrigal family member whose visions foretold the future.
“I’m especially partial to ‘Encanto,” Johnson says. “It’s so upbeat, high energy, that everyone [in the audience] gets so exited.”
And, of course, We Don’t Talk About Bruno.
Here audiences especially respond to the aerial segment, which showcases the skaters’ acrobatic skills above the ice, along with plenty of ice dancing.
“It looks magical,” Johnson says.
And that’s the timeless Disney mantra: “Anything can happen if you just believe.”
In the end, audiences leave with the understanding that everyone has their own gifts, magical or not, and being true to yourself and loving those around you is what makes you special.
Or as Johnson puts it: “Magic is inside all of us.”
At the end, special appearance from Mulan and Li Shang, Belle and Prince Adam, Ariel and Eric, Aladdin and Jasmine, Miguel from Coco, and Moana celebrate that iconic Disney “magic” in a rousing finale.
Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment
Smooth Dre’s Rhythmic Odyssey
Experience the pulse of Brooklyn hip-hop with Smooth Dre and his crew. A renowned figure in Brooklyn, he’s carved a niche in the hip-hop world with his unique style and profound lyrical narratives. Known for blending classic beats with rich, contemporary rhythms, Smooth Dre delivers music that resonates with authenticity and depth. His journey from underground circuits to mainstream stages has been marked by a steadfast dedication to his craft and an unwavering commitment to his roots. Smooth Dre’s influence extends beyond music; he is a cultural icon who embodies the spirit of hip-hop in every aspect of his life. Dive into a night of relentless beats and lyrical storytelling with Smooth Dre, a maestro of urban soundscapes, with his friends.
Saturday, Jan. 11, 8 p.m. $70. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or madisontheatreny.org.
Photos: Dreams do come true when the royal sisters of Arendelle are joined by the Madrigal family in a ice spectacle that fully brings both films to life.
THE Your Neighborhood
Dave Atell
Start the New Year off with some laughs from one of stand-up comedy’s best, when Dave Atell visits the Paramount stage, Sunday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m. An all-timegreat joke writer, named one of the “25 Funniest People in America” by Entertainment Weekly, Atell is most at home in comedy clubs. He built a loyal following by barnstorming the country with his brand of off-color “very adult” humor, and his audiences got even bigger after his cult-favorite travel show, “Insomniac.” Atell continues to be a presence on TV — including his hit Netflix specials “Hot Cross Buns” and “Bumping Mics” — while constantly writing new material and taking it on the road. Beginning his comedy career in the early ‘90s, Attell ascended through New York’s stand-up ranks alongside the likes of Louis C.K. and Jon Stewart.
After a brief stint writing for SNL, Attell has headed several shows of his own. “Insomniac” followed Attell on late-night trips, tracking down and interviewing anyone who wasn’t asleep for some reason (usually either night workers or drunk people), while “Dave’s Old Porn...well, you can Google that one yourself.” When not on the road, Attell makes regular appearances at the Comedy Cellar in New York City. $59.50, $49.50, $44.50, $39.50, $29.50. 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 take place on Tuesdays, 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.
Long Island Winter Run
The 2025 NYS Parks Winter Run Series will be held Sundays, Jan. 12 at Heckscher State Park, East Islip, Field #2, Jan. 19 at Robert Moses State Park, Babylon, Field #2, Jan. 26 at Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park, Field #3 and Feb. 2 at Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh, Field #4. You can register for an individual race or for the full series. Individual registration is $20 and registration for the full series is $50. Registration is online at shorturl.at/njdxP. There will be post-race refreshments and an awards ceremony.
In concert
Massapequa Public Library starts off the new year with Drive, a Cars tribute band, Saturday, Jan. 11, 2-3:30 p.m. Drive will arrive in costume for this concert with all your favorite hits from this top of the pops ‘70s and ‘80s group. To register and for more information, visit massepequalibrary.org or call (516) 798-4607 ext. 6304.
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. 18 and Feb. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sundays, 1-5 p.m., Jan. 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.
Jan.
Art Explorations
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The dropin program continues, Saturdays, 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.
Deep sea exploration
Are you ready to dive into the unknown at The Whaling Museum? Kids and adventurous adults can use a blacklight to hunt for hidden clues about out-worldly creatures that dwell in the ocean’s depths in an event “Deep Sea Explorers” throughout January. For more information, more upcoming events, membership and tickets, go to coldspringwhalingmuseum.org or call (631) 367-3418. 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor.
Having an event?
Hopelessly Olivia
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.
Book Talk
Plainedge Public Library hosts a book discussion, Friday, Jan. 10, 2-3 p.m. “The Princess of Las Vegas” by Chris Bohjalian will be discussed with moderator Harriet Klein. To register and for more information, call (516) 735-4133. 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts.
The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.
Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. Opens Jan. 18, on view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
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.
INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF MASSAPEQUA
PARK NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN pursuant to the provision of the State of New York that a Public Hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals in the Incorporated Village of Massapequa Park on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall, 151 Front Street, Massapequa Park, New York 11762 for the following purposes:
Case No. 4470 To consider the variance application of JC Future Development Corporation, 16 Roosevelt Avenue, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 to build an oversized attached garage in violation of Village Code.
Such proposal is in violation of the following Village Code:
Chapter 345-33 A (1,2) Residential Space and Garages: Amount of Space: The number of motor vehicles for which space may be provided as accessory to an authorized use in a residential district shall be as follows: For a single-family dwelling, two (2) motor vehicles; space for additional motor vehicles may be provided only after receiving a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Not more than 200 feet square of floor area for each vehicle authorized in the preceding subsection may be provided, but the floor area so located with respect to walls, doors or permanent obstructions that cannot be used for storage of motor vehicles shall not be included.
The proposed oversized one (1) car garage is proposed at 354 square feet.
Case No. 4471 To consider the variance application of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Reff, 241 Fulton Street, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 for a proposed ductless air conditioning unit is deficient in rear yard setback and in violation of Village Code.
Such proposal is in violation of Chapter 345-31 (B1) Rear Yards of corner lots which states: Except as provided in subsector E, every building hereafter erected shall have a rear yard which shall be of the following minimum depth: In a Residential A District: 15 feet.
The proposed condenser to be located less than the required 15 feet due to the fact that the current setback
Public Notices — Your right to know
between the house and rear property line is only 15.89 feet.
Case No. 4472 To consider the variance application of Mr. Rhyne Dengenis, 2 Skylark Road, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 for a proposed oversized garage and second floor covered balcony in violation of Village Code.
Such proposals are in violation of the following Village Codes:
Chapter 345-33 (A) Residential Space and Garages: Amount of Space: The number of motor vehicles for which space may be provided as accessory to an authorized use in a residential district shall be as follows:
• For a single-family dwelling, two (2) motor vehicles; space for additional motor vehicles may be provided only after receiving a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
• Not more than 200 feet square of floor area for each vehicle authorized in the preceding subsection may be provided, but the floor area so located with respect to walls, doors or permanent obstructions that cannot be used for storage of motor vehicles shall not be included.
• More than two (2) motor vehicle spaces have been shown where only two (2) are allowed without a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
• More than 200 square feet of floor area is shown.
Chapter 345-27 (D) Height
Restrictions which states: Any walking surface of all external stairways, decks, patios or similar structures erected or constructed or renovated shall not exceed five (5) feet in height above the grade level of the real property.
Proposed second story rear covered balcony is shown at 11 feet 6 inches above grade level.
Case No. 4473 To consider the variance application of Mr. Miles Linefsky, 241 Ocean Avenue, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 for a proposed first floor addition and front porch too close to front property line in violation of Village Code.
Such proposals are in violation of the following Village Codes:
Chapter 345-30 A(1a) Front Yards which states: Minimum front yard setback must be 25 feet. Proposed
first floor addition to be 23.0 feet to front property line.
Chapter 345-30 (D2) Structures in Front Yards which states: A covered porch may encroach no greater than five (5) feet into the 25 foot front yard setback and cannot have a width greater than the width of the house.
The furthest projection of the porch roof overhang is proposed at 18.2 feet from the front property line.
Case No. 4474 To consider the variance application of Mr. Robert Ibishaj, 7 Tyrconnell Avenue, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 to install and maintain six (6) foot tall PVC fence atop a wood retaining wall all in violation of Village Code.
Such proposal is in violation of the following Village Code:
Chapter 345-40 A, B1, & F Fences and Similar Obstructions:
Erection restricted: No person shall erect in any residential district of the Village a solid fence, such as but not limited to a basketweave-type fence, a solid board fence or any synthetic or metal solid fence that is greater than six (6) feet in height or is before the front house setback; nor shall there be erected in such zone any fence more than 48 inches in height, excepting in the rear of the front line of the house, in which case the same shall be not more than six (6) feet.
Corner Plots: On corner plots, the front side shall be limited to nonopaque, not solid fences no higher than 48 inches. The street side (side yard) shall be entitled to a six (6) foot opaque (solid) fence, provided a minimum 13 foot setback from the property line is maintained. The height of a fence shall be measured from the natural grade of the property at all points along the fence run. The height of the fence shall be the highest point of the fence measured at the natural grade. Manmade berms, retaining walls and other structures shall not be considered part of the natural grade.
To erect a six (6) foot tall fence starting at the southwest corner house foundation in the second front yard, run to west property line with a zero (0) foot setback then run north along west property line and to meet up to existing six (6) foot fence atop approximately a 17 inch tall retaining wall that then continues and stops at north property line and then
continues atop same retaining wall ending at northeast corner property lines.
The height of existing fence along west property line starting 17 inches above grade at the south side area measures seven (7) feet nine (9) inches above grade and measures seven (7) feet four (4) inches at northeast property line, and height of fence along north property line measures approximately eight (8) feet tall above existing rear yard finished grade.
Case No. 4475 To consider the variance application of Mr. Edward Gates, 27 Skylark Road, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 to install a generator in the side yard without the required side yard setback in violation of Village Code.
Such proposal is in violation of Chapter 345-31 Rear and Side Yards which states: Must maintain a five (5) foot side yard setback.
Proposed generator to be located two point nine (2.9) feet from south side property line, deficient by two point one (2.1) feet.
Case No. 4476 To consider the variance application of
Mr. Steven Waldman, 96 Rose Street, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 to erect a six (6) foot solid fence in the front yard in violation of Village Code. Such proposal is in violation of Chapter 345-40 (A) Fences and Similar Obstructions which states: No person shall erect in any residential district of the Village a solid fence, such as but not limited to a basket-weave type fence, a solid board fence or any synthetic or metal solid fence that is greater than six (6) feet in height or is before the front house setback; nor shall there be erected in such zone any fence more than 48 inches in height, except in the rear of the front line of the house, in which case the same shall be not more than six (6) feet. Proposed fence to run parallel to north property line at an equidistance of eight (8) feet one (1) inch from same and stop at driveway and then runs south stopping in line with front foundation.
By order of the Zoning Board of Appeals December 27, 2024 25-102 1/8
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0370-24-147128 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 152 Tulip Ave, Floral Park, NY 11001, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at The Paddock Bar Public House LLC. 25-101. 1/8, 15
Why regular car washes are important
Taking care of a vehicle involves more than just maintaining the equipment under the hood. There are a number of steps involved in keeping a car or truck in top form, and that includes regular car washes. Car washes keep a vehicle shiny and clean, which can help it look good while sitting in the driveway or cruising the highway. However, regular car washes are more than cosmetic.
• Protection from the sun: A car that is routinely and properly washed and waxed is less vulnerable to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
• Extend the life of paint: Dirt and debris can build up on the paint surface and eventually lead to scratches and other damage. Bird droppings and sap can be corrosive. Washing will help remove grime and protect the paint in the process.
• Preserve the vehicle’s value: Drivers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicles in the future should realize that a wellmaintained car can bring in as much as 20 percent more for above-average condition, according to Kelley Blue Book. Maintaining
a clean and shiny vehicle can protect its long-term value.
• Remove salt: Drivers who live near the ocean or in areas where roads are salted in the winter to melt snow may have cars with high salt corrosion rates. Unless it’s washed off frequently, salt can take its toll, leading to damage.
• Improve fuel efficiency: Drivers have felt pain in their wallets at the fuel pump in recent years. Dirty cars may be less aerodynamic and less fuel-efficient as a result. Keeping a car clean may improve its fuel efficiency.
• Maintain the interior: Car washes are not only about the exterior. Keeping a clean and tidy interior can help improve the air quality inside of the vehicle and prolong the life of upholstery, mats and interior components.
Car washes should be a routine part of vehicle maintenance. Professional car washes tend to be more eco-friendly than washing a car at home, so drivers are urged investigate their service plans and features.
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
Project Manager; D&G Elite Construction Inc.; Massapequa, NY; Bachelor’s Deg. Req’d; 12 months Exp. Req’d: Participate in the pre-construction process: review plans & specifications, perform quantity take-offs, prep. labor, material, equipment, & sub/supplier cost estimates, & assist with preparation & submittal of bid packages; Execute procurement activities, qualify subcontractors’ and suppliers’ proposals including negotiations, subcontractor & supplier agreements & PO's; Prep. & distribute submittals, process RFI’s, shop drawings, etc; Obtain necessary permits, approvals, & other regulatory prerequisites; Coordinate subcontractors / vendors schedules, performance, & payments, & progress reports for PMs & upper management; Keep accurate & detailed project documentation & records; Analyze contract provisions / prep. timely notices & change order requests with regard to extra work, design changes, & delays; Provide regular project updates & reviews to management, as needed. Prep. payment applications, budget adjustments, & project status reports. Salary range $74,000 to $76,000. Contact Dolores@dgeliteconstruction.com
HomesHERALD
Spectacular Center Hall Colonial
WApartment
My meeting with a president, and what might have been
Thank you, Jimmy Carter.
When I was a student in Florence, Italy, in 1979, I was invited to a fellow student’s home in Munich. There I was awakened by loud noises out in the street, and watched a huge truck with giant arms and claws that was lifting several odd-shaped bins from two street corners at the same time.
My friend explained that this was something called “recycling.” The truck was gathering separated bins of brown, green and clear glass and paper, all at the same time. I was intrigued, and further investigated this new idea, writing six pages of notes. After I returned to the U.S., I hand-wrote that six-page letter to the president of the United States, Jimmy Carter.
Then a strange thing happened. Our office secretary in Monroe, Michigan, came to my desk and said that a man named William Ruckleshaus, chairman of the federal Environmental Protection Agency, was on the phone, and wanted to speak to me. He explained that President Carter had received my letter and wanted to meet. I was 22 years old.
Because it was election time, the president was doing town hall meetings across the country, and selected a high school near my home in Toledo, Ohio. I was sent a special pass to give to Secret Service agents, and on Oct. 25, 1980, at 9:42 am, in a crowded gymnasium, I presented my pass to a tall Marine-like agent who seemed to be aware of the arrangement. He didn’t hesitate. I was walked behind a backdrop by two agents, down a hallway and seated in a classroom.
In walked President Carter, and he came over, shook my hand and sat in a school desk next to me. He was holding my letter on recycling, and we discussed the many specific things he was interested in implementing, starting with government, to reduce waste in the United States. I kept answering, “Yes, Mr. President,” and he kept saying, “Call me Jimmy.”
As we talked, he smiled that big Jimmy Carter grin, and I kept thinking he was too genuinely sincere, too nice to be the president, too down-to-earth — and how surreal the moment was. But the most surreal of all was when he asked me if I would come to Washington, D.C., and work with him to implement this program from the White House. I immediately answered, “Yes, Mr. President,” still unable to call him Jimmy. Then he smiled at me one more time and said, “Of course, I have to get re-elected.”
He lost to Ronald Reagan, and the rest is history. I always wonder how my life would have been, working with the president, overseeing a new program that never materialized. I wouldn’t have crossed paths with the young lady who has shared my life for 43 years, never enjoyed the two daughters we raised or the grandchildren we fuss over, might not have opened my own architectural practice, moved to Long Island or started writing a column for the Herald. I wonder. Thank you, Jimmy Carter!
© 2025 Monte Leeper
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Once again, there’s a New Yorker in the White House
When Donald Trump is inaugurated as our 47th president the week after next, he will (once again) be the only president since Franklin Delano Roosevelt who is a born-and-bred New Yorker. Despite his recent relocation to Florida, where he has presided from Mar-a-Lago like an overlord, Trump has never escaped his New York roots. This is important to New York and Long Island. I say this not because of any native-son pride, but because downstate New York has unique issues and challenges that can be best understood and addressed by a true New Yorker. Like me, Trump grew up in Queens, but that’s where the geographic comparison ends. He was raised in very upscale Jamaica Estates. I grew up in very bluecollar Sunnyside. Same time; different stations. Of course, that didn’t stop
Trump from implying to people in Washington that he and I grew up together. So much so that non-New York members of Congress would ask me, “What kind of guy was he growing up?” And my misleading non-answer would always be, “Same as he is today.”
WDespite the very different economic aspects of our upbringings, Trump and I, in many ways, spoke the same language. I distinctly remember when he invited me to the White House in February 2017, a few weeks after his inauguration, for a routine billsigning ceremony. As we spoke for just a few minutes, he gave a big smile and said, “It’s great to hear that New York accent down here.”
anti-MS-13 efforts succeeded in crushing the gang’s reign of terror in Nassau and Suffolk counties.)
e’ll need President Trump’s support and cooperation to address critical issues.
Probably the most relaxed I ever saw Trump was when he invited me to join him at ringside for a night of UFC fights at Madison Square Garden in November 2019. The loud fullhouse crowd chanting “USA!” and giving him thumbs ups was a stark contrast to the Ukraine impeachment proceedings against him that were under way at the same time in Washington.
This year, his giant rallies at Madison Square Garden and the Nassau Coliseum were major parts of his winning campaign.
Executive Bruce Blakeman, county Republican Party Chairman Joe Cairo and former Congressman Lee Zeldin. Trump’s brother Robert lived in Garden City for many years until he died in 2020. On a somber note, I was there last March when Trump came to the funeral home in Massapequa to comfort the family of murdered NYPD hero Jonathan Diller.
Several times when I was talking with him on Air Force One, when he was flying to Long Island to address the MS-13 murder spree, I felt as if I were speaking with just another guy on a Queens street corner, and had to keep reminding myself that I was talking to the president of the United States. (His
Trump also had friendships with Long Islanders such as former U.S. Sen. Al D’Amato, from his years in Washington, and Joe Mondello, who was Trump’s attorney in several business transactions and was later appointed ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago by Trump. More recently, the president-elect has formed close friendships with County
Over the next several years, New York will need the support and cooperation of President Trump to address critical issues, including illegal immigration, crime and drugs, health care for those who continue to be affected by the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks, aging infrastructure, congested traffic and high taxes. We will especially need him to fight off anti-New York elements in the Republican Party who have too often in the past clearly demonstrated their geographic bias. Together, whether Republican or Democrat, New Yorkers should work to find common ground with the president to make New York great again.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
The challenge of being president in challenging times
We are entering a new year, in which there will be many challenges for all of us. But the biggest ones will be for President-elect Donald Trump, who is about to embark on a historic second term. We know what he will do on Inauguration Day, but the real question is what kind of president he will be when the history of his second term is written.
Trump made many promises to voters, and there is no doubt that he will fulfill many of them. Voters were clearly concerned about the immigration challenges at the borders, and Trump has pledged to close them down and begin a program of mass deportations. Many voters were unhappy with the way our government works, and for better or worse, there will be changes. The proposed appointees to the Trump cabinet are in most cases total unknowns when it comes to government experience. Thinking that his new
team will be able to function effectively is a big wish that may or may not come true. Many of the proposed cabinet members have never run any type of business, and in some cases their only qualification is that Trump likes them. That could be a recipe for disaster.
Thinking that Trump’s new team will be able to function effectively is a big wish.
Aside from the promise to shut down the borders, the big Trump pledge was that he would do something about the high cost of things like eggs and other household needs. In the weeks since the election, he has made it clear that cutting down on such things as grocery costs is too difficult to accomplish.
Much of his presidency will be defined on Jan. 20, when he will sign a number of executive orders. Some may win broad public acceptance, but others may lead Trump voters to question whether they were the reason they supported him. The pledge to pardon Jan. 6 rioters pleased a small segment of the population, but freeing convicted thugs would send the wrong message in a country that prides itself on law and order.
Trump has pledged to dramatically
cut energy costs by embarking on massive oil and gas drilling programs. Whether that can have any effect is questionable, because the country experienced record oil and gas drilling in 2024, and creating extra product doesn’t mean that prices will go down. We consumers know from experience that the oil and gas producers don’t give any discounts to motorists or homeowners.
Some Trump voters have expressed a desire for our country to curtail any overseas relationships and to once again make the United States into an isolationist country. We went through that experience in the 1930s, when Adolf Hitler was beginning to map out his plan to control Europe and the rest of the world. Since those dark days, we, our friends and supporters have created NATO, and our country has assured our allies that we will defend them if any of our enemies attack them. Obviously, that means China or Russia.
There is no doubt that the Trump presidency will bring about many changes in the way our nation functions. History shows that every president makes some type of imprint on the
country. In many cases, he spends a lot of time trying to erase his predecessor’s accomplishments, and Trump will devote a substantial amount of time to doing exactly that.
In the run-up to Jan. 20, he has talked about a takeover of Greenland and a seizure of the Panama Canal. Greenland still has strong ties to Denmark, which we can be sure isn’t in the mood to give up a land mass rich in precious minerals and other raw materials. Panama controls the canal under a treaty entered into by President Jimmy Carter. Serious attempts to seize the canal would raise questions around the world about America’s written word.
Four years go by fast, and as the clock ticks, historians assess the accomplishments and mistakes of every president. We hope there will be many positive changes from a Trump administration, and that America will be a better place after his tenure ends. That’s my wish for 2025 and beyond, and, I’m sure, everyone’s hope.
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.
JERRY KREMER
HERALD
Feeling under siege? Combat the chaos.
are you still emotionally shaken by the violent, seemingly random acts that occurred shortly before we turned the calendar and again on New Year’s Day?
On Dec. 22, a woman was burned alive on a Brooklyn subway train. On New Year’s Eve, a man was critically injured when he was pushed into the path of an oncoming subway train in Manhattan.
On Jan. 1, the year just hours old, we awoke to the news of multiple deaths and dozens of injuries when a pickup truck plowed into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Later that morning, a Tesla Cybertruck detonated outside a Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, killing the driver and injuring seven others. And four gunmen opened fire outside a nightclub in Queens that night, injuring 10.
When these kinds of headlines intrude into our lives, we may feel as though the world is unraveling. The ripple effects are profound: Lives are lost or forever changed, public spaces are emptied, and once-reliable joys like festivals, parades and football bowl games are relegated to the realm of unimportance.
This sense of being constantly on edge is exhausting. But amid the grief and uncertainty, there are ways to process our emotions, respond constructively, and help ourselves and others find solace and strength.
What should we do?
When violence or tragedy strikes, the
letters
Advocating for child care in New York
To the Editor:
The year ahead will be filled with uncertainty and opportunity. Our leaders in New York must create the conditions necessary for every child to thrive, while safeguarding our state’s safety net.
We must demand full funding for our child care and public education systems, ensure that every family has a home and access to health care, guarantee clean air and safe environments, and protect every immigrant. We must demand that our state takes a bold position and does not waver from it. Most important, we must demand that the ultra-wealthy and extremely profitable corporations pay their fair share, because that’s the key to funding the essential services that help everyone succeed.
For too long, corporate politicians and their wealthy donors have put their interests ahead of the needs of our public schools, child care and working families. It’s time for a change. Here’s what we’re fighting for to make this
first imperative is safety. Avoiding highrisk situations and being vigilant in public spaces are more important than ever.
We must also safeguard our emotional and psychological well-being. Start with staying informed, but not letting yourself be overwhelmed. The 24-hour news cycle has a way of amplifying fear, and while information is crucial, it’s equally important to recognize when it’s time to step back. Be selective about your sources of information, and balance the hard truths of current events with stories that remind you of the good in humanity.
It’s also essential to strengthen our communities. Feeling under siege isolates us, making us retreat into individual fear. But fear is best countered collectively. Reach out to neighbors, join local groups or participate in civic events that promote unity.
Advocate for solutions. Moments of crisis are not always random acts of chaos; they are often symptoms of systemic issues, whether it’s gun violence, mental health crises or deep societal divisions. Supporting policies and groups that address these root causes — and working constructively with people whose opinions differ on the issues — is one way to reclaim a sense of agency in a world that feels out of control.
How should we feel?
The emotions stirred by these tragedies are complex and valid. There’s fear, anger, sadness and sometimes even guilt
— guilt over feeling powerless or for wanting to escape the constant barrage of bad news. It’s important to allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment.
Be resilient. Focus on what you can control. Small, deliberate acts — reaching out to a friend, writing to a policymaker or simply stepping outside for a walk — can help restore a sense of balance. While we may not be able to prevent every tragedy, we can control how we respond to them.
How can we help?
Be present. Show up for others. Simple gestures, such as offering an attentive ear or a comforting word, are appreciated. Help the people who are directly affected. Donate to relief funds, volunteer at community centers or contribute to organizations addressing the systemic causes of violence and instability.
Share stories of courage, kindness and resilience. Elevate these stories — not in an effort to persuade others to ignore the pain, but to remind you and them that even in the darkest moments, light filters through.
Feeling under siege doesn’t mean we are powerless. It means that we are called to action — both in our personal lives and in our communities. We are called to care for one another, to demand better from our leaders, and to work toward a future in which safety and joy are not fleeting privileges but shared realities.
Let’s put politics aside and just save lives
in politics, disagreements are inevitable. They’re part of a system designed to encourage debate and foster diverse perspectives. But some issues transcend politics — or at least they should.
The fight to equip our first responders with life-saving epinephrine autoinjectors, or EpiPens, is one of those issues. And yet, despite its life-or-death implications, my legislation to mandate EpiPens in Nassau County police vehicles has been stonewalled by County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Republican leaders in the Legislature.
I introduced this bill inspired by stories like that of Georgina Cornago, whose son Gio died tragically in 2013 of an allergic reaction. Georgina has turned her unimaginable pain into a relentless mission to prevent others from suffering the same loss. Through her foundation, Love for Giovanni, she’s educated countless people about the dangers of food allergies, advocated for epinephrine accessibility and helped save lives. Her story has touched the hearts of many, including mine.
nCornago’s advocacy has already borne fruit. In 2019, thanks to her tireless efforts, New York passed Gio’s Law, which allows first responders like police officers to carry epinephrine. But her mission is far from over. On a national stage, she continues to push for epinephrine to be as ubiquitous as AEDs, ensuring that no child — or parent — is left defenseless against anaphylaxis. Yet here in Nassau County, where Gio’s story began, we’ve failed to honor his legacy by failing to act.
Anaphylaxis doesn’t care about your socioeconomic status, your neighborhood or your political affiliation. It can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. A child at a birthday party accidentally eating the wrong cake. A teenager at a school event who doesn’t realize there are peanuts in the dessert. A parent walking in the park. Seconds can mean the difference between life and death, and police officers, often the first on the scene of an emergency, can administer epinephrine quickly.
lives and the peace of mind it offers families. Training officers to use the devices takes less than 30 minutes. Nassau police officers already carry Narcan to combat opioid overdoses, and equipping them with EpiPens is a logical, lifesaving next step.
assau County police should carry potentially lifesaving EpiPens.
Cornago has said time and again, “Every second counts.” Yet here we are, wasting months on partisan bickering while lives hang in the balance. Neighboring Suffolk County has already implemented similar measures, demonstrating both the feasibility and necessity of such a program.
So why are Nassau Republicans blocking this bill? The answer escapes me, and I suspect it escapes the parents who worry every day about their children’s safety. This obstructionism isn’t just shortsighted — it’s morally indefensible.
standard. Imagine a Nassau County in which every patrol car carries the tools to save a life. Imagine the relief parents would feel knowing their local police officers are equipped to protect their children from anaphylaxis. This is an achievable goal, and it starts with passing this legislation.
Cornago’s advocacy has shown us what’s possible when determination meets compassion. She’s organized events like Trunk or Treat to create safe spaces for kids with allergies. She’s worked to install public signs in parks, raising awareness of food allergies. She’s even helped educate school districts about the need for accessible EpiPens. Her efforts have saved lives. Now it’s time for the County Legislature to do its part.
At just $100 per EpiPen thanks to a new price cap on the drug — a cost that could be reduced through bulk purchasing — the cost of implementing this program is negligible, especially when weighed against the potential to save
Letters
happen:
■ Tax the ultra-wealthy and corporations. New York has the public dollars we need, but only when we pass legislation that makes millionaires, billionaires and highly profitable corporations pay their fair share. The Invest in Our New York campaign shows how we can raise revenue to support our schools, affordable child care and working families. By ensuring fair taxation, we will finally provide the support our kids, educators, and child-care workers have needed for far too long.
■ A fairer, stronger future for all. Every child needs access to a highquality education, no matter their background. But we can’t make that happen without a state budget that prioritizes equity. The Invest in Our New York campaign offers a blueprint for raising the public dollars needed to fund our education and child-care programs. It’s time for a state budget that focuses on the well-being of all New Yorkers — not just the wealthiest.
Your voice is crucial to making these changes a reality. Join us for Child Care Advocacy Day, on Jan. 28, and AQE Advocacy Day, on Feb. 4. Together we can ensure that the 2025 budget prioritizes public education,
early care and learning, and universal child care, so that all of New York’s children have the resources they need to succeed.
Let’s make 2025 the year we secure a more just and equitable future for every New Yorker.
ZAkIYAH
It’s time for us to focus on what truly matters: protecting our community. For years, Cornago has been fighting to ensure that no other family has to endure the loss she suffered. Her dedication should inspire us all. Yet instead of supporting her mission, some in the Legislature seem more intent on scoring political points.
Imagine a world in which Gio’s Law isn’t just a state initiative but a national
To my Republican colleagues, I say, listen to Georgina. Listen to the countless parents who’ve written, called and pleaded for action. Listen to the doctors and first responders who know what’s at stake. This is not about politics; it’s about saving lives.
Let’s not allow bureaucracy and partisanship to stand in the way of progress. We owe it to Gio’s memory, to Georgina’s tireless efforts, and to every Nassau County family to act now. Passing this legislation is not just the right thing to do — it’s the only thing to do.
Seth I. Koslow represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.
Framework by Alexis Morledge
SHAAkIR-ANSARI MARINA
MARCOu-O’MALLEY
Co-executive directors, Alliance for Quality Education NY
He’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods,’ too
To the Editor:
Re Peter king’s column, “Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly (Dec. 19-25): I agree with you, Mr. king: “Blue Bloods” will be missed. It was very well acted and written. What really bothers me is that CBS would not reconsider, despite strong ratings and even stronger outcry about the show ending.
How about another network taking the show, or even better, HBO? It would have worked. It’s a shame that it ended its run this way.
TONY GIAMETTA Oceanside
At Blarney Castle — but did he kiss the stone? — County Cork, Ireland
mountsinai.org/southnassau