MPK Village approves 4-way stop signs at critical intersection
Homeowners urged change for Roosevelt Avenue and Cypress Street to address safety concerns
By Mike Polansky
The Board of Trustees of the Village of Massapequa Park has approved the installation of four-way stop signs at the intersection of Roosevelt Avenue and Cypress Street.
The intersection was the site in June of a highspeed accident, the fourth over the past two years, and local residents had shown up at the board’s June 24 meeting to plead for the addition of north/south stop signs on Roosevelt Avenue to complement the east/west stop signs already installed on Cypress Street.
Kelly Pettalino, who lives at 359 Roosevelt Avenue, was one of many local residents to urge the board to install the extra stop signs. “It needs to be done; it’s a really dangerous intersection,” she said. She reminded the board that the Cypress intersection is in the midst of an eight-block stretch along busy Roosevelt Avenue with no north/south stop signs, and that there are plenty of youngsters who walk down Roosevelt to the McKenna Elementary School. “It’s scary, the horns go off constantly, my heart drops, and it’s no way to live,” she said.
The approval for the additional stop signs, announced at the July 15 board meeting, was the result of two factors, according to Village Deputy Mayor Tina Schiaffino. “There was another accident on that corner, and the parents presented a strong case about the safety concerns on the corner. The residents on all four corners of the area agreed in their request for additional stop signs and so the board reviewed the request again and happily approved it,” she said. The new signs were installed within four days of the board’s approval.
At the work session that preceded the July 15 meeting, the trustees also heard a presentation by Rich Carozza of Woodhollow Energy Group on installing Electric Vehicle charging stations at various locations in Village parking lots.
“It’s scary, the horns go off constantly, my heart drops, and it’s no way to live.”
-resident Kelly Pettalino
Carozza noted the forecast that 53 percent of new passenger vehicles sold will be electric by the year 2030, and recommended that “Level 3” DC char-
gers be installed, which would allow vehicles to be fully charged within a half hour. The charging stations could be used by all makes of electric vehicles. According to Carozza, EV charging stations had already been installed by Woodhollow in many Nassau County Villages, including Farmingdale, Lynbrook and Malverne.
Carozza said Woodhollow would install the chargers at no cost to the Village, and would take care of all maintenance under a 10- year lease, which would provide the Village with $225 per month for each charging station installed plus 3 percent of the gross revenues. “Basically, the Village would be renting us parking spots,” Carozza said.
The board took no action of the proposal.
The board also heard a request by Mark Appleton of 219 Harbor Lane, and endorsed by 30 homeowners, to hold a Block Party on Saturday, Sept. 14 that would encompass all of Harbor Lane between the intersections of Harbor Drive and Knell Drive. The board took no action on the request pending further discussion with Appleton.
The next Massapequa Park Village Board meeting is Mon., Aug. 12. A preboard meeting begins at 7 p.m., and a public meeting starts at 8 p.m., 151 Front St., Massapequa Park. For information, call the Village at 516-798-0244.
Two Massapequa High School track stars honored
By Mike Polansky
Capping a very successful year for the Massapequa High School track and field team, stalwart athletes Noah St. George and Andrey Podskrebkin were presented with two of the top awards at the recent annual Nassau County Track Coaches Association Awards Dinner.
Podskrebkin earned the Dick Ferziger Memorial Award, which was presented by the Nassau Officials Association at the June 10th dinner at the Crest Hollow Country Club. The award is given annually to the track & field athlete who most combines athletic accomplishment, academic success, community service and leadership skills.
St. George was presented with the Nassau Coaches Award for Athletic and Academic Excellence, and followed up on June 11 being presented with the Massapequa Superintendent’s Award as the top student athlete at Massapequa High School for the 2023-2024
school year.
St. George is a versatile athlete, scoring as All County and All Long Island in the High Jump, where he holds the Massapequa Indoor School record, All County and All State in the Long Jump, and he won the Division Meet in both the 100 Meters and 200 Meters. He also excels at volleyball, where he was the Massapequa High School team captain. St. George was named to the National Honor Society.
(Continued on Page 7)
Local family gets a little help from their friends Page 3
LIMEHOF presents rock band event Page 2
Volunteer bankruptcy attorneys
Nassau Suffolk Law Services Suffolk is holding a Free Advice and Counsel Bankruptcy Clinic for eligible low-income Suffolk County residents at our Islandia office Aug. 21, from 3 to 6 p.m. and are seeking Suffolk County volunteer bankruptcy attorneys.
The organization is seeking Suffolk County volunteer Bankruptcy attorneys for this event. Attorneys will be meeting with eligible clients for a consultation and offer advice and counsel regarding filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Clients can ask questions, learn about the process, and get feedback on if and when they should file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Volunteer attorneys have no requirement to take on full representation.
needed
Volunteer attorneys will be provided with the following after they volunteer: Malpractice insurance; CLE credit for coming to the event and additional CLE credit hours if they take a case; CLE voucher for Suffolk Bar Association if you take a case, recognition at all levels: social media, Pro Bono appreciation events, Suffolk Bar Association and Nassau Suffolk Law services newsletters.
Contact them by Aug. 10th if you are interested in volunteering or have questions. It is required that volunteer attorneys be experienced in Chp 7 bankruptcy cases and have helped clients in Suffolk Count. This is an in-person event. Reach out to Kiersten Bartolotta, Esq.- Suffolk Pro Bono Coordinator at kbartolotta@ nsls.legal or 631-232-2400 ext: 3311
LIMEHOH rock band event
Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame will be featuring class rock band, Shindig on August 18 at 3 p.m. The band has been performing on Long Island for 30 years and for their special show at LIMEHOF they will be performing original material as well as covers from many of the LIMEHOF inductees. For ticket information, please visit limusichalloffame.org or call 631-689-5888. The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at 97 Main Street, Stony Brook.
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Our Lady of The Assumption Annual Feast, Aug. 9 through 11
Our Lady of the Assumption in Copiague will be hosting their Annual Feast from Fri., Aug. 9 through Sun., Aug. 11.
The feast will be taking place on Friday from 6 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 10 p.m. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the auditorium in English, Spanish and Polish. The serviced will be
A.G.
followed by a procession to Our Lady of the Assumption Shrine. The feast is fun for the whole family and will include a nightly 50/50 raffle, rides for all ages and an assortment of deserts, ethnic foods and refreshments. Our Lady of Assumption Church is located at 1 Molloy Street, Copiague. For more information, please call 631-842-5211.
Berner High School Class of 1974 Reunion scheduled for October
The A.G. Berner High School Class of 1974, 50 Year Reunion will be taking place on Sat., Oct., 12 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at Captain Bill’s in Bay Shore.
The cost is $100 per person. For tickets and more information, please email berner1974reunion@gmail. com, call Maureen Sweeney-Oehl at 516-234-1679 or Nancy Viglietta-Campbell 631-252-3527. Captain Bill’s is located at 122 Ocean Ave., Bay Shore.
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Paumanauke Pow Wow Committee,The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts, and The Town of Babylon proudly present the 42nd Annual Paumanauke Pow Wow
Firefighters group builds handicap extension for Massapequa FDNY firefighter’s son
By Christie Leigh Babirad
The Fight For Firefighters organization recently built a handicap extension on the Massapequa home of FDNY Firefighter Anthony Scali and his wife, Jackie, to accommodate the needs of their nine-year-old son, Dino, who has epilepsy and cerebral palsy.
The project was organized by John Vaeth, a FDNY lieutenant and the president of Fight For Firefighters, who learned that the family’s home was not handicapped-accessible.
“We heard that Dino didn’t have a handicapped bathroom on the first floor and we’re just very proud and happy to do this and hope it helps the family as much as possible,” said Vaeth.
Jackie Scali called the work “more than life-changing.”
“We didn’t have a house that’s accessible to Dino, so the organization getting together and doing this work helps Dino not only now but for the years to come,’” she said. “I can’t thank this foundation enough.”
Dino, who attends Nassau Boces Carman Road School and has a younger sister, Ella, was diagnosed at a young age with Lennox Gastaut Syndrome (a form of epilepsy), cerebral palsy, microcephaly and global developmental delays. He is completely dependent upon others for all his daily living needs because he is unable to walk, talk, sit or stand independently.
But he has not let his condition dull his spirit. He displayed a big smile recently when FDNY firefighters and organization members gathered in the
backyard of his home as a plaque was placed on the new extension in memory of two FDNY firefighters who died in the line of duty, Stephen H. Pollard and Timothy P. Klein.
“We are so appreciative of everything the foundation has done to help us create this extension for Dino,” said Jackie Scali. “They asked us a lot of questions and wanted to make sure that the work would specifically fit Dino and what he needed.” Most significantly, she said the group was keenly aware of ensuring the end result would maintain a home atmosphere, and not that of a medical facility or hospital.
Fight For Firefighters is an organization that helps first responders who have been injured in the line of duty and their families. It was created in 2017 when Vaeth found out from nurses at the World Trade Center and FDNY that insurance would not cover the cost of making the homes of these firefighters handicapped accessible.
Members of the organization donate their time and skills, raising funds needed for the project through donations and fundraisers. The organization has been building ramps for a number of years and dedicate each ramp and project in. the name of a firefighter who lost his or her life in the line of duty.
“The whole extension is life-changing not just for Dino but for the entire family,” said Anthony Scali. “It makes everything so much easier for us.”
For more information about the Fight For Firefighters organization, visit fightforfirefightersfoundation.com or call 516-893-1694.
Don't leave this important lesson for your children to chance
If you've watched a baseball game recently, you've likely noticed a surge in commercials promoting online gambling. These ads often feature enticing promotions and bonuses, targeting viewers, particularly the young and impressionable.
Since the landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling, more than half of U.S. states, including New York, have legalized some form of online gambling. This trend mirrors the popularity of fantasy football leagues and college basketball pools, which attract sports fans of all ages, including high schoolers and even younger children.
Despite this, a recent survey reveals a troubling disconnect: only 2% of parents believe their teen has used an online betting platform, while over half are confident they would be aware if their child were betting online.
Yet the impact of online gambling on youth is tells a different story. Research
indicates that 4–8% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 have serious gambling problems, with an additional 10–15% at risk of developing such issues, according to the National Research Council.
Today's children are the first generation to grow up with widespread and heavily promoted gambling options. Once viewed as sinful or immoral, gambling is now widely accepted as mainstream entertainment.
Mental health professionals are just beginning to assess the extent of problem gambling among teens. There is an urgent need for specialized training for those working with youth, but the most effective approach starts at home.
Parents should engage in conversations with their teens about the risks of gambling addiction and ensure they understand the potential dangers. Addressing this issue proactively can make a significant difference.
PUBLIC COMMENTARY:
DRAWING CONCLUSIONS:
The art of turning adversity into opportunity
By Bryan Golden
Everyone encounters adverse circumstances. Some people survive and thrive while others suffer and allow their spirit to be extinguished. It’s not the circumstances that vary, it is the manner in which each individual chooses to respond.
Harold was out for a walk when he came across an old abandoned well shaft. Peering over the edge, he lost his footing and fell to the bottom of the deep well. Miraculously, Harold was unhurt as he landed in the soft dirt at the bottom.
As Harold sat down to ponder his options, some dirt landed on his head. Ralph, the owner of the farm where the well was located, had meant for years to fill in the old dry well so that it wouldn’t be a hazard. Just hours after Harold’s mishap, Ralph and several of his farmer neighbors, arrived at the well to finally fill it in.
Harold yelled up to the men. But the well was too deep for them to hear him and it was certainly
too dark for them to see him. Furthermore, Ralph and his friends never expected someone to be in the well. Fortunately for Harold, the well was located in a location that was impossible to get a backhoe into. So, the men were filling in the well with hand shovels.
Harold quickly realized the men had no idea he was trapped at the bottom. Harold knew that if he didn’t do anything, he would be buried. So, as each shovel of dirt landed on him, he shook it off and packed it underneath his feet. Little by little, Harold was able work his way up the shaft.
Ralph and the men at the top of the well were in shock when Harold eventually climbed out. Although he was completely filthy, Harold was ecstatic that he was free from his awful predicament. Harold contemplated how ironic it was that the same dirt he used for his escape would have been his
demise had he not taken any action.
We can learn a number of lessons from Harold’s experience. First of all, it is possible you will find yourself in an unexpected situation you didn’t plan for and don’t like. Once Harold fell into the well, all that mattered to him was how was he going to get out.
How he came to be in his predicament and what he could have done to avoid it were irrelevant so long as he remained
trapped. Harold might wish he was not trapped or lament his carelessness in falling down the well. But in order for Harold to survive, all of his mental and physical energy must be devoted to solving his problem.
Harold’s circumstances were not going to improve on their own. If he did nothing, his situation would have gotten worse. If Harold were passive, the dirt falling on him would have buried him.
Life can get messy. When dirt starts falling, stand up, shake yourself off, and use it to your advantage. Don’t act like a victim. Ralph was not targeting Harold. You have to be self-reliant and help yourself. Assistance from others is not always available.
Don’t panic. Your situation may seem dark, but there is a way out. Don’t panic, keep your wits. Don’t just lie down, you must move up and out. Whenever you fall into a hole, you can never dig your way out. One way or another, you have to climb out. If you want to improve a bad situation, the only way to go is up. When the dirt starts falling, you have got to get moving in order to avoid being covered over.
Subscribers can post comments on letters to the editor and articles on the Massapequa Post website at: massapequapost.com
Subscribers and nonsubscribers can also write us a letter. Send it to 2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City NY 11530 or to our email address at: cjames@liherald.com
Saladino and Blakeman Announce free $25 farmers’ market coupons for senior citizens
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announce that income-eligible adults aged 60 and over can now receive free $25 coupon booklets from the New York State Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). These coupons can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at authorized farmers’ markets and farm stands.
“We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for our senior residents,” said Supervisor Saladino. “The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is an excellent initiative that helps seniors maintain a healthy diet while enjoying the fresh produce our local markets have to offer. It is important for us to provide opportunities that support the well-being of our older adults, and this program does just that by making nutritious food more accessible.”
The $25 Farmers’ Market coupon distribution will take place on Thursday, August 8 from 10 am to noon at the North Massapequa Community Center, 214 North Albany Ave., North Massapequa, and on Monday, August 12 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Hicksville Community Center, 28 West Carl Street, Hicksville. Coupons will be distributed on a first come, first served basis, with a limit of one booklet per person per year.
Coupons can be used at the Country Fresh Farmingdale Farmers’ Market, located at Village Green, 316 Main Street, Farmingdale, open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (June 4 - November 19), and at the Seaford Farmers’ Market, located at Seaford LIRR Parking Lot 3, Sunrise Highway and Washington St., open Saturdays from 7 a.m., and noon (June 1 - November 23).
“By participating in this program, our seniors can enjoy the benefits of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, while supporting the local economy. I encourage all eligible seniors to take advantage of this wonderful program and experience the health benefits of fresh, locally sourced produce,” added County Executive Blakeman.
The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and Mobile Farm Stand are sponsored by the Nassau County Office for the Aging, the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets, the New York State Department of Health, the New York State Office for the Aging, and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
To find additional farmers’ markets participating in the SFMNP Coupon Program, please visit: https://agriculture.ny.gov/farmersmarkets. For more information, call the Nassau County Office for the Aging at (516) 227-8900.
Photo submissions sought for DEC accessible recreation ‘Love Our New York Lands’ photo contest
On the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar launched a new ‘Love Our New York Lands’ photo contest highlighting removing barriers to public lands for New Yorkers of all ages and abilities. The winning images will receive prizes and be featured in statewide digital and print campaigns to increase awareness of principles and guidelines that encourage safe, accessible, respectful, inclusive, and sustainable use of public lands.
Photos will be judged on originality, artistic composition, technical quality; and whether the photograph showcases inclusivity in people enjoying New York’s outdoor activities safely and responsibly.
Accessible Recreation photo submissions should be emailed to social@dec. ny.gov by Aug. 31 with the subject line “Accessible Rec.” The photographer’s full name, the DEC land where the image was taken (reference land name, location, and UID code listed in the Accessible Recreation Destination Map pop-up, if applicable), and Instagram/ social media handle should also be in-
cluded. DEC may use photos of facilities featured in a variety of publications and outreach materials, including the Accessible Recreation Destinations Map.
“DEC is proud to support the Americans with Disabilities Act and is working every day to make more public lands accessible for visitors to enjoy and share with each other,” Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “Plan your next adventure or relaxing escape to nature and send us your pictures of welcoming all ages and abilities to share the outdoors.”
This contest further supports Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, which was launched earlier this month to encourage New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings by putting their mental and physical health first.
14– DEC 29 SEPT 12–OCT 27
Obituary NOtice
Margaret Donohue, special education teacher at BOCES, at 87
Mrs. Donohue was born in New Jersey in 1937 the daughter of Stephen and Dorothy Griffith. She grew up in Manhattan where she met future husband Patrick McKeown. The couple had four children together and moved to Babylon in the summer of 1966.
Years after Patrick’s untimely death in 1980, Margaret married William Donohue of Massapequa and further grew her family with two step-children. Mrs. Donohue went back to school and graduated from Dowling College in 1976 with a degree in special education. After completing her degree, she became a teacher at Boces in Suffolk County and worked there for fifteen years until her retirement in 1992. During that time, she also earned a master’s degree.
However, her finest job described by many was as mother and grandmother, said her family Friends and children of friends who would often describe her as the “Gold Standard” of parenting.
Mrs. Donohue was predeceased by her husband William Donohue. She is survived by her four children: Patrick and his wife Lisa of Babylon; Thomas and his wife Ann of Plano, Texas; Margaret and her
Long Beach. She is also survived by two step-children, William and his wife Lisa, and John, all of Massapequa, as well as by ten grandchildren: Shannon, Colleen, Ronnie, Meaghan, Kelly, Brian, Paige, John, Liam, and Callum.
Mrs. Donohue reposed at Chapey Funeral Home, 1225 Montauk Hwy., West Islip on Sat., July 27. Cremation was private.
ATTENTION FAMILIES
AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at: Massapequa 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.
Margaret Donohue
Two Massapequa High School track stars honored by Nassau coaches
Podskrebkin is one of the top middle-distance runners on Long Island, having scored as All Division in the 800 Meters, and as the anchor of the 2024 Massapequa High School County Championship team in the 4x800 Meter Relay, and was ranked as one of the Newsday top 25 Cross Country runners last season. He was named captain of both the high school cross country and track teams for his senior year. He too was named to the National Honor Society.
Off the track, St. George is an officer of the Massapequa High School Science Research Club, and publicity coordinator for the Science Olympiad. Podskrebkin is part of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps in Northport, where he is Chief Petty Officer and supervises the training of over 200 cadets. He has devoted more than 100 hours of community service with the Corps, including helping disabled veterans.
Their coaches at the high school had nothing but praise for both of them.
“In my eyes, Andrey Podskrebkin is one of those kids who coaches search for,” said Track & Field Head Coach Rich Degnan. “Andrey has been an enthusiastic leader of our school, team and community throughout his high school years. His teachers, coaches and teammates recognize Andrey’s dedication. His friends know that he is a person that they can count on. Andrey is the captain who will not leave practice or a meet until all of his teammates have returned.”
School Cross Country Head Coach Bob Eaton noted, “Andrey demonstrates excellence in athletics, in the classroom, and through his extracurricular activities. His
good-natured, kind personality just adds to his impressive resume.”
Both coaches also acknowledged the achievements of St. George.
“While Noah is an outstanding student athlete, it is as a teammate where he really shines,” said Degnan. “Prior to meets, Noah was constantly planning and encouraging his team to get just one more place, pass just one more kid. He is a great sportsman, always thanking the officials and con-
POLICE BLOTTER
The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department’s Third Precinct and other police and law enforcement agencies:
LOCAL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO WEAPON, DRUG CHARGES
Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that Steven Frigand, 58, of North Massapequa, pled guilty to drug and weapon charges for illegally possessing more than a dozen firearms and a pound of cocaine. He was arrested last summer for firing dozens of shots out of his basement apartment striking neighboring homes. Frigand pled guilty before Judge Robert Bogle to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first degree (an A-I felony); two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree (a C violent felony); and reckless endangerment in the first degree (a D felony) in satisfaction of the indictment. He is expected to be sentenced to 10 years in prison on Sept. 25, 2024.
Donnelly said that on Aug. 20, 2023, at approximately 12:45 a.m., Frigand fired dozens of shots from his basement apartment of 2 Sussex Avenue in North Massapequa. Several bullets hit a house behind his address, and others hit a house next door, one bullet narrowly missing a child asleep in his bed and the homeowner who had gone to check on the child.
When police arrived at the scene, the defendant was in the basement and refused to come out for more than an hour. He was taken to Nassau University Medical Center once he exited the home.
A search warrant executed on the basement of the home later that day recovered: 18 weapons, including
six assault rifles, seven additional rifles, four shotguns and a revolver; 40 high-capacity magazines; hundreds of rounds of ammunition; multiple shell casings, bullets, and bullet fragments and more than 27 ounces of co- caine and drug paraphernalia.
Frigand is represented by Nicholas Ramcharitar. In her announcement, DA Donnelly noted: “In a quiet residential neighborhood, without a thought to the terror and danger his actions would create, Steven Frigand unleashed a hail of gunfire from his basement apartment striking several homes.
“The defendant’s thoughtless and cavalier behavior put a child in harm’s way, when a bullet tore through the young boy’s bedroom as he slept. A further search of the defendant’s living space returned more than a dozen illegal guns, including deadly as- sault rifles, and half a kilogram of cocaine. Illegal firearms can surface anywhere, and with our law enforce ment partners, we will continue to ensure individuals who unlawfully keep caches of dangerous weapons are held accountable.”
SHOPLIFTING ARREST
Massapequa: Nassau County police arrested and charged James A. Wilson, 33 of Babylon with shoplifting at Famous Footwear, 550 Sunrise Hwy., July 28. The incident occurred at noon.
PETIT LARCENY
Massapequa: A catalytic converter was stolen from. a vehicle parked in front of 270 West End Avenue. The theft was reported at 10 a.m., July 24. North Massapequa: Someone removed a catalytic converter from a vehicle parked in front of 162
gratulating his competition.”
Eaton added, “Despite his many individual accomplishments in track and field, Noah’s greatest pride comes from the success of the team.”
St. George will be attending Swarthmore College in September, with a Pre-Med program in mind. Podskrebkin will be heading to SUNY Stony Brook, where he intends to major in Cyber Security.
(Photos provided by Coach Degnan)
N. Elm Street between 9 p.m., July 13 and 11 a.m., July 14.
Massapequa Park: A similar incident occurred to a vehicle parked in front of 155 Henry Street between 7:13 a.m., and 9:30 a.m., July 14.
South Farmingdale: An unknown subject stole two cases of beer from Bolla Market at 630 Main St., on July 30. The theft was reported at 4:30 p.m. South Farmingdale: An unknown individual removed several items from Walgreen’s pharmacy at 918 Main Street July 14. The theft was reported at 8:40 a.m.
Massapequa: Someone damaged the driver’s side passenger window of a vehicle that was parked in the Massapequa LIRR Station. The vandalism occurred between 7 a.m., and 7:20 p.m., July 29.
Massapequa Park: Someone damaged the rear driver’s side window of a vehicle that was parked in front of 202 Grand Blvd., July 17. That incident was reported at 10 p.m.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
Farmingdale: Nassau Police arrested Nicholas Christensen, 28, of Bethpage on July 25 and charged him with criminal mischief in connection with an incident that occurred at Main and Conklin streets at 11:15 p.m., that day.
The charges against those listed are allegations and the cases are still pending in the courts. Individuals charged and whose names appear in this column may submit documentation to us at a later date that the charges have been dismissed or that they have been found innocent and we will include that information in this space in a timely manner.
Andrey Podskrebkin anchoring the Massapequa team in the Sprint Medley at the 2024 All American Meet
Noah St. George competing in the High Jump at the Spring 2024 New York State Championship Meet
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Application open for spring 2025 Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver scholarships
National scholarship program accepting applications until September 30
Now through September 30, applications are being accepted for the spring 2025 semester for the Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship Program.
Since 2006, Hope For The Warriors has awarded Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships twice a year. The nationwide program recognizes and rewards post-9/11 spouses and caregivers for their strength, fidelity and resolve despite adversity as they assume critical roles in the financial well-being of their families.
•New Beginnings Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing an associate degree, entry level classes or training.
•Restoring Family Scholarship – awarded to spouses of the fallen.
•Restoring Hope Scholarship –awarded to those pursuing a master’s or doctorate of social work, psychology counseling, or mental health counseling-related field.
Meet some of our scholars
The following students were recently recognized for academic achievement and graduation at their respective colleges:
•Margaret Dolloff of Massapequa was named to the Spring 2024 Dean’s List at St. John Fisher University in Rochester.
•Julia Capalbo of Farmingdale recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.
•Emma Bonica of Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science Studies.
•Jack Muscatello of Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film, Television and Media Arts.
•Sofia Rizzo of Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
2024 Dean’s List and is a member of the Class of 2024.
•Jackson MacLeod of Massapequa Park was named to the College of Holy Cross’ Spring 2024 Dean’s List and is a member of the Class of 2025.
•Nicholas Armano of Massapequa graduated from the University at Albany with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
•Paul Bauccio of Farmingdale graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University at Albany with a Bachelor of Science in Informatics.
Scholarships vary from $1,800 to $2,500 and are applied toward higher education at an accredited U.S. university, college, or trade school. Unique to the program is a scholarship for Master of Social Work students, Restoring Hope.
•Honorary Scholarship – awarded to those seeking graduate or post-graduate degree.
•Restoring Self Scholarship – awarded to those pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Since the program’s inception, Hope For The Warriors has granted 249 Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships totaling $641,607.
To receive an application to apply for the spring 2025 semester, visit hopeforthewarriors.org and connect to services.
•Carli Sanger of Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Arts in Film, Television and Media Arts.
•Arinn Schnall of Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in International Business.
•Angelina Trucchio of Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications.
•Angelina Gonnelli of North Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Business.
•Danielle Price of North Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Master of Science in Public Relations.
•Jennifer Zirkel of North Massapequa recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies.
•Chiara Greco of Massapequa was named to the College of Holy Cross’ Spring 2024 Dean’s List and is a member of the Class of 2025.
•Nicole Kamel of Massapequa was named to the College of Holy Cross’ Spring
•Ashley Brandimarte of Massapequa Park graduated from the University at Albany with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
•Connor Christie of Massapequa graduated from the University at Albany with a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics.
Public Notices
Notice of formation of Glamwithnikki LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 6/5/2024. Office located in Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC Northwest Registered Agent LLC at 418 Broadway, Ste N, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 24-643. 8/7, 14, 21, 28, 9/4, 11
Notice of formation of More Growth Esthetics LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/22/2024 Office location, County of Nassau.
SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC
upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: More Growth Esthetics LLC, 520 Franklin Ave. Ste L21-C Garden City, NY 11530 Purpose: any lawful act. 24-621 . 7/10, 14, 24, 31, 8/7, 14
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0340-24-128256 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 300 302 Main St, Farmingdale, NY 11735, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Casa Stellina LLC. 24-642. 8/7, 14
by Joanne Anderson Pets, Pets, Pets...
How synchronized cat trapping and a heroic collie saved a family of kittens
“Synchronized Cat
Trapping”: In animal rescue, “synchronized cat trapping” is an art, science and precision sport. This event hasn’t been added to the Olympics yet, but perhaps someday. It’s possible because breakdancing, surfing and skateboarding debuted in 2024.
If you want to catch a feral cat for spay/neuter, or to help a mom and her kittens, the first rule is “You Must Have a Plan.” Recently, mom and daughter Last Hope adopters and former volunteers, asked for help after a cat gave birth in the mom’s window well.
Lizzie- a “Newborn Kitten Alert Dog”: Mom Ema and daughter Tina found out about the feline family because Lizzie, mom’s Last Hope Collie/Aussie, cried for two weeks whenever she stood inside the sliding doors next to the window well. Hollywood’s Lassie became famous for signaling “Timmy was in the well”. Years later, Lizzie, true to her Collie DNA, whined “Mom and five kittens are in the well”.
Lizzie has a twisty adoption history . In 2018, she appeared on News 12 “Dog Day Fridays”. A couple rushed to Last Hope in Wantagh after the broadcast to meet her. Everything checked out on their application. Fast forward one year. Last Hope got a call from Brookhaven Town Shelter that a stray had a microchip that traced to us. Turns out the dog was Lizzie, and her adopters’ phone was disconnected. We will never know what happened. Soon after, Ema adopted Lizzie. Her first Last Hope dog had recently died. Ema, born in Estonia, is the matriarch of a long line of dog lovers. Her daughter Tina lives around the block in Syosset. They visit the Thrift Shop often to sing Lizzie’s praises. We send Lizzie dog toy gifts. She shares these gifts with her family, just like she shared the news of these kitten interlopers.
Ema was worried Lizzie would hurt the mom or kittens. They were trespassing in the yard where Lizzie reigned for the last five years. She never lived with cats. Normally, we monitor mother cats and begin trapping when the kittens are closer to eating solid food. These babies were only two to three weeks old. It would be safer to trap Mom now first ,and then grab the babies so Mom could nurse the babies in a foster home.
Remote Trapping: I retired from teaching before COVID forced remote learning and thank heaven each day. Remote trapping is slightly different. I dropped off a trap on a Monday, and gave Tina a crash course in Trapping 101, sharing the tip to bait with sardines, mackerel or Kentucky Fried Chicken. It’s important to de-sensitize a cat to eating inside the trap when it is not set, so the cat gradually ventures deep enough to set the trap off on your target day. This process takes about a week.
My mentors told me to go back to step #1 and tie up the trap to de-sensitize her slowly. The tension was upsetting Ema whose advanced age I will not reveal, plus there were two more obstacles. The window well was adjacent to the wooden deck around the swimming pool. When temperatures soared ,the kittens could move under the deck and out of our reach and view. Plus, Tina was highly allergic to cats so I planned to show up to pull the kittens from their deep nursery.
The kittens would be in a carrier, but not too long, because they wouldn’t be able to nurse until they were with Mom in the safety of an indoor cage at their foster home.
Just before we started over at Step #1, Tina saw Mom go inside the trap. She must have leaned over the treadle to nibble bait. Tina reset the strap with salmon skin leftovers. BINGO, Mom was trapped. I was an hour away. Kim, our angelic foster Mom, went over to gather the babies.
**Caution: The following paragraphs are not for the SQUEAMISH.**
We didn’t give this enough time because we were anxious to get mom. Meanwhile, we needed a foster mom and to know her availability. Luckily our Last Hope foster mom Kim lived in Oyster Bay about ten minutes from Ema. The remote trap instructor (me) is in Babylon.
Mama Cat Plays Hard to Get: With five mouths to feed, mama was ravenous. Several neighbors were leaving out food but we didn’t know who to ask them to refrain. Tina stopped feeding Mama cat at her house. She gave us false confidence when she stepped into the trap to nosh Monday night. Wednesday was our Target Day. No luck. Mom stared at the trap from afar with a “you have to be kidding” smirk on her whiskers. She used her paw to steal tuna from outside the trap. I asked Tina to cover the trap with a towel.
Dawn and dusk are the best times to lure cats into traps. Until late Friday, Mom avoided the trap. She had other places to dine.
Mr. M’s Voice at the Vet: With gloves on, Kim grabbed five kittens. The second one out, a tuxedo clone of Mom, had open wounds covered with maggots and possibly an embedded bot fly. He didn’t seem to be in pain. I met Kim at her home while she was outside combing each for fleas (none) and treating Mr. M’s wounds with peroxide to start parasite removal. Mr. M (use your imagination to decode the “M”) needed to see a vet, but first he and his siblings refueled from Mom.
Mr. M couldn’t stay at the vet because there would be no one to bottle feed him. An intern told Kim he was going to be video-taped treating Mr. M because this would be his first bot fly removal. Mr. M was screaming “FEED ME” so loudly that another vet rushed into the room with a syringe. He was determined to feed the demanding one but gave up because Mr. M wanted his Mom.
After treating our tuxedo tenor, the intern showed Kim the video. Kim and her husband planned to go out to dinner but brought home take-out. They weren’t as famished as Mr. M who screamed the whole ride until the Mother and Child Reunion.
Epilogue: The intern’s video sparked a brainstorm that will replace expensive weight loss drugs. We are going to sell copies of Mr. M’s treatment video to raise money for Last Hope. Watch the video before each meal. You will lose your appetite plus one third your body weight without a prescription or a weekly injection in your stomach.
Your Local Calendar of Events
THURSDAY, August 8
• Farmingdale Music on Main: 5 to 9 p.m., Main Street, between Prospect Street and South Front Street, Farmingdale. For more information, visit https://www.farmingdalemusiconmain.com/ or call 516-249-0093.
• Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. Call 516-624-6200 with related questions. Live streaming is available at https://oysterbaytown.com/town-board-live-streaming/
FRIDAY, August 9
• Simpson United Methodist Church: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call 631-789-2569.
• Our Lady of the Island K of C 6911 BINGO: 7:30 p.m., Our Lady of Lourdes School, 855 Carmans Rd., Massapequa Park. For more information, call 516-798-9887.
SATURDAY, August 10
• 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. For more information call 631-972-8829 (leave message) or visit www.longislanddahlia.org
• Town of Oyster Bay Music Under the Stars—The Ultimate Aldean Experience, The American Ride toby Keith Tribute, and The World’s Greatest Luke Bryan Tribute: 6 p.m., John J. Burns Town Park, Massapequa. Family-friendly activities, photo opportunities, line dancing, inflatables, food trucks, and more. Vehicles will be admitted to the parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit www.oysterbaytown.com or call 516-797-7925.
SUNDAY, August 11
• Farmingdale Farmers Market on the Village Green by Schneider’s Farm: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 361 Main Street, Farmingdale. For more information, call 516-249-0093.
• Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce Second Sundays by Colored Colors: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., along Main Street in downtown Farmingdale. For more information, call 516-249-0093, or visit www. farmingdalevillage.com.
MONDAY, August 12
• Massapequa Park Village Board Meeting: 7 p.m., 151 Front St., Massapequa Park. For more information, go to https://masspk.com/ or call 516-798-0244.
• Massapequa Fire District: 7:30 p.m., One Brooklyn Avenue, Massapequa. For information, call 516-798-2648 or visit massfd.org.
• Massapequa Public Library Board of Trustees: 7:45 p.m., Bar Harbour Meeting Room, 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park. For more information, call 516-799-0770 or visit https://www. massapequalibrary.org/
TUESDAY, August 13
• Town of Oyster Bay Board: 10 a.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY. Call 516-624-6380 or visit https://oysterbaytown.com/calendars/ with related questions.
• Republic Airport Commission: 7 p.m., 7150 Republic Airport, Room 201, Farmingdale. For information, call 631-752-7707 x6109 or email info@republicairport.net
• 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.
• Movies on the Village Green—Wish: Farmingdale Village Green, 361 Main Street, Farmingdale. Movies start at dusk, preceded by cartoons. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Free popcorn and ice cream will be served. For more information, call 516-249-0093, or visit www. farmingdalevillage.com.
WEDNESDAY, August 14
• 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 www.longislanddahlia.org
• Park After Dark: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Park Boulevard, Massapequa Park. Music, food and more. For more information, call the Massapequa Park Village at 516-798-0244.
• 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.
Lizzie poses with Tina and Ema, her owner.
Kim, foster Mom, grabs the kittens out of the deep window well.
Mama Cat reunited with her 5 babies in foster care.
Mount Sinai South Nassau Recognized for Excellence in Emergency Nursing Mount
Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Emergency Department has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Emergency Nurses Association’s 2024 Lantern Award for outstanding patient care and reducing wait times, and for excellence in nurse retention, achieving a zero vacancy rate and one percent turnover rate.
The Lantern Award also recognizes nursing sta commitment to ongoing education and training and fostering an environment of learning and professional growth.
We congratulate Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Emergency Department nursing sta for their commitment to patient care, quality, safety and a healthy work environment.
Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau 877-SOUTH-NASSAU.