HERALD Massapequa
Republicans, Democrats Both Optimistic as Election Results Come In
By Christie Leigh Babirad and Carolyn James
cbabirad@liherald.com cjames@liherald.com
New York State Assemblymen John Mikulin, the 17th AD, and Michael Durso, the 9th AD, both Republicans won easy victories on Tuesday. Mikulin defeated his opponent Harpreet Toor, 64 to 36 percent, while Durso garnered 66 percent of the vote. In other local races, Republican Andrew Garbarino defeated his Democratic opponent Rob Lubin in the 2nd Congressional District.
Democrats enjoyed a victory in the 4th New York State Senate District with incumbent Monica Martinez defeating her opponent Theresa J. Bryant, 56 to 44 percent.
“We’ve had a great night here in Nassau County,” said Nassau County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs.
“We’ve had some great wins and all of this talk about Nassau County going red locally with our candidates is a lot of nonsense. I think we’ve reestablished that.”
Republicans enjoyed a victory in the 8th Senate District, which covers Massapequa, Babylon, and points east with a victory for incumbent Alexis Weik. She defeated her Democratic
opponent Francis R. Dolan, 67 to 33 percent.
Garbarino first greeted supporters at Republican headquarters in Nassau County, and later those in Suffolk where supporters gave him the victory sign.
Both parties kept a close eye on the tight race in the 11th Assembly District, where Democrat Kwani O’Pharrow and
Republican Joseph Cardinale were neck-and-neck.
“I’m feeling excited,” O’Pharrow said. “I’m excited about the election process and feeling confident.”
Cardinale, who expressed optimism despite the uncertainty, added, “I gave it my all, stuck to the issues, and ran on my platform. That’s all I could do.”
ELECTION RESULTS
O’Bay holds the line on property taxes
Final 2025 budget has zero hike for 8th year
By MIKE POLANSKY Correspondent
The Oyster Bay Town Board unanimously approved the 2025 budget for the General Fund, Special District Funds and Special Improvement District Funds at its Oct. 29 meeting. This budget was initially presented to the public at a hearing on October 15.
The adopted budget has a real property tax levy of $232,987,272, which is $671 less than the 2024 tax levy. This marks the eighth consecutive year that the town has maintained the same real property tax levy. Town officials estimate that this approach has saved taxpayers a total of $10.4 million over the past eight years.
In contrast, the Town of Hempstead’s 2025 budget proposes a real property tax levy that is 12.1 percent higher than its 2024 levy, while the Town of Babylon’s 2025 budget reflects a 9.9 percent increase over 2024.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino attributed the town’s ability to keep taxes stable to fiscally responsible budgeting practices, a hiring freeze, and expedited debt service payments, as well as higher interest earnings.
“We have reduced total town debt by $185 million,” Saladino said. “As a result, 2025 debt service payments will be $8 million lower than in 2017, helping to alleviate pressure on the operating budget.”
Saladino expressed pride in managing to hold taxes steady while also reducing debt. He highlighted achievements such as annual beach restoration, the repaving of 40 percent of town roadways, and improvements to sports fields, playgrounds, and restrooms, along with green energy upgrades to town buildings that save taxpayer dollars.
No public comments were made.
Herald file photo
Joseph Cardinale with Republican supporter Guy Calla, Clerk of the S.C. Legislature, as they awaited final results Tuesday night at Republican headquarters.
Project 2025 plan for culture, health care
By Jenna ZaZa & Lori Saxena Special to the Herald
Third in a series.
Written by the conservative Heritage Foundation, Project 2025 is a 922-page book detailing overhauls of the executive branch and proposing radical policy changes regarding the economy, culture, education and health care.
The controversial plans have Democrats in a tizzy, the Trump campaign distancing itself from the ideas and saying they would embrace the mandate’s demise. However, six of his former Cabinet secretaries and more than 140 people who played a role in the project also worked in his administration, according to a CNN report.
At its core, the initiative seeks to reshape the federal government, but its impact extends to the local level.
“The next President has a moral responsibility to lead the nation in restoring a culture of life in America again,” Heritage Foundation officials wrote in the project foreword.
Culture
Project 2025 is steeped in dividing culture wars saying, “The next conservative President must make the institutions of American civil society hard targets for woke culture warriors.” Its top goal is to prioritize the nuclear family model “as the centerpiece of American life” by rolling back hard-fought LGBTQ+ and Black rights.
It calls for the reversal of the 2015 Supreme Court case that legalized samesex marriage in all 50 states. Widespread anti-LGBTQ+ policies could significantly erode cultural and familial support for queer individuals.
“This policy document gives extended protections that violate individual civil and human rights,” Kiana Abbady, board chair of Long Island Progressive Coalition, said. “There would be no such thing as non-traditional families, that would only be the nuclear family, and that goes back to the denial of LGBTQ rights.”
Child protection rhetoric of antiLGBTQ+ has a long history but the ideology behind the project’s “optimal childrearing” family structure emerged in the late 1990s from religious conservative groups. Saying that children grew up best in households with both a man and woman parental figure. That argument is considered to be false, according to the American Psychological Association.
“So when [the project] says they want to prioritize nuclear family values, that is coded language,” said Jillian Gaeta, co-founder of Roots to Revolution and a New York City public school teacher. “What that means is they think that women who don’t have children … that couples who are gay and adopting children also have less value in our society.”
The project proposes limiting opportunities for people of color by stamping out all diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at the federal, state and local
Project 2025, a plan conceived by the conservative Heritage Foundation, could change the U.S. if Donald Trump is
level. DEI creates jobs, boosts the bottom line for companies and contributes significantly to the economy, according to research by McKinsey & Company.
According to a Suffolk County disparity study final report, persons of color “experience the greatest disparity, as they are significantly less likely to own a business.” It also discovered that there are statistically “significant disparities” in business earnings for minorities.
“The elimination of these programs that encourage economic advancement and economic opportunity for hard working Americans based on the color of their skin is abhorrent and it’s disappointing,” Abbady said.
Critics of the mandate argue that the proposed policies risk overextending government power to enforce rigid gender binaries and strip away support for marginalized communities.
“It was working on, for decades, to have the United States be a white, Christian, authoritarian nation,” Claudia Borecky, president of the Bellmore-Merrick Democratic club, said.
Health care
Project 2025 proposes decentralization of federal programs like Medicaid, increasing privatization, and implementing grant caps on health care.
A 2023 study in the international Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health of 1,695 healthcare facilities in Nassau County, revealed a disproportionate distribution of services, with the majority of facilities clustered in two affluent zip codes. Areas with high social vulnerability have a significantly sparser distribution of healthcare services.
Parts of Suffolk County are federally designated Medically Underserved
Areas due to insufficient access to primary care, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration. These regions rely on federally qualified health centers and federal programs such as Medicaid.
Project 2025 aims to encourage health care funding that is specific to the needs of local communities and competition with private insurers. Decentralization could lead to reducing federal funding and limitations on Medicaid, which could exacerbate barriers in accessing medical care for vulnerable populations.
Currently, just over 25 percent of Suffolk County residents and a little more than 23 percent of Nassau County residents are enrolled in Medicaid, according to a United Hospital Fund report.
Michelle Jones, a nurse at Flushing Hospital, who is on the board of directors for the New York State Nurses Association, said these proposals would substantially increase the cost of health care if implemented.
“The cost of health care is going to skyrocket, and so is the cost of medication,” she said. “This, is going to put profit over patients and over the frontline workers who take care of these patients. This project will erode people.”
The project’s proposed health care policies also include reforming the Department of Health and Human Services into an anti-abortion-focused Department of Life.
Liberal organizations, such as EMILY’s List, have pledged to invest money and resources into flipping House seats currently held by anti-abortion Republicans.
“Project 2025 outlines tracking women’s pregnancies, including abortion, miscarriages, stillbirths ... dismantling sex education, and replacing birth con-
trol programs,” Yari Aquino, an EMILY’s List representative, said. “The way to stop Project 2025 from happening is to elect … Democratic pro-choice women up and down the ballot.”
The Long Island Coalition for Life remains determined to influence public policy in a direction that bans abortion statewide with no exceptions.
“Our ultimate goal is to protect every preborn son and daughter in the womb, to end abortion and to bring back respect for the right to life of all people,” Celeste Broyles, a representative of the Coalition, said. “We don’t discriminate against babies who may have been conceived in rape … all babies deserve the right to life.”
In 2022, former State Sen. Anna M. Kaplan and Assemblywoman Gina L. Sillitti highlighted ongoing local abortion restrictions. Several communities still had “trigger laws” on the books that were passed in the early 1970s and were intended to limit the establishment of abortion clinics and impose stringent regulations on access. Hempstead, Huntington and Oyster Bay towns and the villages of Freeport and Williston Park had local abortion restrictions.
“Every person should have autonomy over their body and have the right to discuss that with their provider.” Jones said. “Under the project, people are defined by their role in their family, but even then they are a single person with the right to make decisions.”
Jenna Zaza and Lori Saxena are reporters with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
Jenna Zaza/Herald
elected president.
LI Coalition Against Bullying hosts inaugural School Hero Awards
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
The Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) held its inaugural Long Island School Hero Awards cocktail reception on Monday, Oct. 21, at Stonebridge Golf and Country Club in Smithtown.
Founder and Executive Director Joseph Salamone reported an unexpectedly large turnout of 257 attendees, surpassing his goal of 100 guests.
The ceremony honored local educators who have taken significant steps to combat bullying and promote kindness and empathy among students. A particularly poignant moment for Salamone was the recognition of his former teacher, Kristen Wallace, who played a vital role in his life during a challenging time.
“When I was at my lowest, she somehow saw that I needed more help and changed my perspective,” Salamone said.
Wallace, who teaches English Language Arts and Dramatic Arts at Deer Park High School, expressed her gratitude for the honor.
“This recognition is a personal honor, but I am also so proud to be recognized by such an important organization,” she said. “Together, we can make a difference and empower the next generation to stand up for kindness and respect.”
Other honorees included Paul Defendini, superintendent of the Farmingdale School District; Allison Lepore, psychologist at Babylon Junior and Senior High School; and retired Lindenhurst Middle School administrators Frank Naccarato Jr. and Patricia Natale.
Defendini reflected on the significance of the award, stating, “It means a great deal to me, but not for the obvious reasons. I accept this award on behalf of so many, and I appreciate all the efforts that have brought us to a stronger place.”
Lepore shared her commitment to making an impact on students’ lives. “It’s incredibly meaningful work when you know you are making a positive and lasting
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impact,” she said, acknowledging the gratitude she receives from students.
Natale emphasized the importance of teaching antibullying principles. “It was overwhelming to find out that I was an honoree because it’s such a big part of me in teaching kids not to bully,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see some of the kids I worked with begin to understand the impact of bullying.”
Salamone noted the risks involved in planning the event but felt the turnout validated the honorees’ efforts. He added that many educators approached him after the ceremony, expressing renewed energy in their careers.
“They told me they were leaving with a renewed sense of energy, which made the event all the more poignant,” Salamone said.
Founded in September 2013, LICAB arose from Salamone’s experiences with bullying. He and seven like-minded individuals aimed to foster a more compassionate world through advocacy, education, and community outreach. The organization provides resources for those experiencing bullying and facilitates various programs for personal development and school assistance.
For more information, go to licab.org or call (516) 7777709.
Long Island man drowns in Bermuda after rescuing two people
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD
cbabirad@liherald.com
Value each day and moment together: that’s a lesson that became painfully real for the family of Jamie Lambros on October 7.
The 48-year-old son, brother, uncle, and friend drowned that day in Bermuda after heroically saving a 10-year-old boy and his mother during rough seas at Horseshoe Bay beach.
I n the wake of the tragic end to a family cruise vacation, the Lambros family from Deer Park is speaking out in hopes of preventing similar tragedies.
“ There should have been signs and flags prohibiting swimmers from entering the waters,” said Joey Pappas, Lambros’ younger brother.
“ There should have been lifeguards,” Pappas continued. “This beach was advertised on the
He was a good kid, super intelligent, loved his family, and loved his country.
R ichard Gasparri, Jamie Lambros’ uncle
ship, and there were lifeguard stands, but no lifeguards; it was just pure negligence.”
P appas described losing his brother as losing a best friend and a father figure. “I lost three things in one,” he said, emphasizing Jamie’s selflessness. “He would give someone the shirt off his back and always put others before himself.”
L ambros’ uncle, Richard Gasparri, remembered him as the “rock” for his sister. He noted that Jamie had a deep love for his family, often moving together with his mother during life changes. Gasparri described the accident as a “nightmare” and praised his nephew’s big heart.
“ He was a good kid, super intelligent, loved his family, and loved his country,” Gasparri said.
A day trader with a passion for the environment, Lambros advocated for clean energy and
supported those around him, said his brother.
“He was always sending positive affirmations, texting me every day to say he was proud of me,” Pappas said, adding that Jamie was his hero. “He was courageous, deeply feeling, and loving.”
P appas noted that Jamie often spoke about legacy and would want them to make a difference amid this tragedy. “He was the one who always brought us all together,” he said.
T he family is raising funds to cover unexpected expenses stemming from Jamie’s death, as well as to support the installation of a rescue ski at Horseshoe Bay and to raise awareness about beach safety.
T he family has established a GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/f/JamieTheHero2024.
Statistics on drownings in the United States
According to the CDC, more than 4,000 drowning deaths occur each year in the United States.
As many plan holiday vacations to warmer climates, it is crucial to remain vigilant about swimming safety. Avoid swimming in areas without lifeguards on duty.
Note: Bermuda does not keep statistics on drownings
Photo Courtesy/ LI Coalition Against Bullying Honorees
shown
Michael
Education; John DeBenedetto, William Floyd School
Paul Defendini, Farmingdale School District; Michelle Dick, Commack School District; Jillian Edelman, Oceanside School District; Dr. James Foy, Sayville School District; Marjory Stoneman, Douglas HS, Florida; Vincent Healy, East Rockaway School District; Glen Johnson, Malverne School District; Caroline Kind, Levittown School District; Mary Kirby, Lynrook School District; Kathryn Lake, Northport-East Northport School District; Allison Lepore, Babylon School District; Michael Natale, Nassau BOCES; Patricia Natale, Lindenhurst School Distrrict, retired; Wendy Tepfer, Bellmore-Merrick CHS District; Kristen Wallace, Deer Park School District; Marisa Wanatick, Hauppauge School District and Dr. Sequoyah Wharton, Brentwood School District.
J amie Lambros with his mother Phyllis Gasparri
Oyster Bay holds the line on 2025 property tax levy
In other business at the meeting, the Town Board:
•Approved a petition for a “drivethrough only” Starbucks at 750 Hicksville Road in Massapequa, with operation hours set from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, and conditions to prevent vehicle queues from blocking sidewalks or roadways.
•approved the conversion of the premises at 5599 Merrick Road in Massapequa to a Dunkin’ Donuts/Baskin Robbins
restaurant with a 24-hour drive-through service, also subject to conditions on vehicle queues.
•Extended the town’s moratorium on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for an additional six months.
The next regular Town Board meeting will be held Tues., Nov. 19, at 10 a.m. in the Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave.,, Oyster Bay.
For more information on town board meetings, call (516) 624-6380.
Town’s $$ road map
To keep the local economy moving forward, the Town Board directed the Department of Planning & Development to process building applications at a faster pace. The department now accepts credit card payments to expedite the process. The town continues to offer many same-day permits while eliminating red-tape for businesses to keep outdoor dining open throughout 2025.
To keep the town’s downtowns vibrant and storefronts filled, the town is supporting small businesses and non-
profit organizations by releasing millions in federal grant money to small businesses and chambers of commerce to boost “shop local” initiatives.
And to help residents fill jobs and sharpen their skills, the town continues to offer free online resume and job skills services through its career center, which can also help residents prepare for workforce re-entry.
For more information on these programs, call the town at (516) 624-6380.
Chamber had ‘spooktacular’ time
The Massapequa Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual Halloween Networking Spooktacular at Zona Restaurant. Members dressed in costumes, making it a festive and fun event. It was a great opportunity to con-
nect with fellow professionals while enjoying the Halloween spirit.
For more information on the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce, its events and business opportunities go to massapequachamber.org or call (516)
Oyster Bay spreading the love with peanut butter collection drive
The Town of Oyster Bay is currently hosting its “Spread the Love Peanut Butter Collec tion Drive” to help stock lo cal food pantries and support families in need.
The drive will be taking place until Fri., Nov. 15, Monday through Fri day from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Participants are welcome to dropoff their jars at the following locations:
Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay; Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa; or the Ice-Skating Center at 1001 Stewart Ave.,
For more information, call the Town of Oyster Bay at (516) 624-6333 or (516) 797-7961.
Facts about Veterans Day
Each November, millions of people recognize the service and sacrifice of military veterans on Veterans Day. Initially commemorated as Armistice Day but renamed Veterans Day in the United States in 1954, the holiday is a federal holiday throughout the country.
The first Armistice Day was observed in 1919.
Despite that lengthy history, the general public may still have questions about Veterans Day.
How to help aging veterans
military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who lost their lives in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.
When is Veterans Day observed?
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes that Veterans Day is always observed officially on November 11, regardless of which day of the week that happens to be. In 2024, Veterans Day is Monday, November 11.
Why is November 11 so significant?
November 11 is a significant day in world history because it marks the signing of the armistice between the Allies of World War I and Germany at 5:45 a.m. on November 11, 1918. Though the formal peace treaty, the Treaty of Versailles, was not signed until 1919 and hostilities between the sides continued for hours after the armistice was signed, the day is still viewed as the end of World War I.
What distinguishes Veterans Day from Memorial Day?
The VA notes that Veterans Day honors all those individuals who served honorably in the miliary during both wartime and peacetime. Memorial Day is a day to honor and remember
What is the significance of red poppies?
Red poppies are ubiquitous on Memorial Day, but they’re also visible on Veterans Day. Though it’s not taboo to wear red poppies on Veterans Day, it’s a tradition that aligns more with Memorial Day. That’s because the poppies are typically worn to honor fallen military personnel. A 1915 poem written by a Canadian Lieutenant Colonel named John McCrae referred to the fields of poppies growing around the graves of World War I soldiers in Flanders.
Do other countries honor their military veterans?
Many countries across the globe honor their military veterans, and many do so on November 11 as well. For example, Canadians and Australians observe Remembrance Day in honor of their nation’s respective veterans on November 11. Great Britain observes Remembrance Day on the Sunday nearest to November 11.
Veterans Day is a day to honor and commemorate the brave men and women who have honorably served in the U.S. military during wartime and peacetime.
Source: Creative Metro
There were more than 18 million living military veterans in the United States by the end of 2023, according to data from the Department of Veterans Affairs and surveys from the Pew Research Center and the U.S. Census Bureau. Seventy-two percent of those veterans are age 50 or older, and many served during wartime.
Military personnel make significant sacrifices to protect the freedoms Americans enjoy each day, and it’s vital that those efforts are never forgotten, even if it’s been decades since service personnel have been on active duty.
Thirty-seven percent of living veterans are age 70 and older, and these brave individuals must face the challenges of aging as well as some, including chronic injuries, that might be traced to their time in the military. That makes helping aging veterans an especially worthy endeavor, and those interested in doing just that can consider the following ideas.
• Offer your expertise free of charge. Working professionals can help aging veterans by providing advice or services free of charge or at steep discounts. For example, accountants can offer to prepare and file aging veterans’ tax returns free of charge or, if the returns are complicated, at steep discounts. Financial advisors can visit a local veterans hall or home and speak to members or residents about managing money after retirement.
• Invite veterans over for special events or gatherings. The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that veterans who served in the last 30 years make up the largest number of living veterans. Though there are still plenty of veterans who served prior to 1994, they may no longer have extensive social networks as more and more aging veterans pass away. Social connections are vital to long-term health, and researchers at the Center for Healthy Aging at Penn State University found that adults between the ages of 70 and 90 who reported more frequent, pleas-
ant social interactions exhibited improved cognitive performance in the ensuing days. Individuals who want to help aging veterans can invite them over for special events, such as game watches, holiday gatherings or even weekly family meals.
• Pitch in around the house. Whether they suffered injuries during their time in the service or not, many aging veterans face the same physical limitations as others approaching or past retirement age. Offer to help aging veterans around the house. Mobility issues can make it hard to mow a lawn, tend a garden or clean the interior of a home. Such tasks are made much easier when others pitch in, and these gestures can be a great way for families to show their appreciation to the brave individuals who protected the freedoms Americans enjoy each day. There’s no shortage of ways to help aging veterans, many of whom could use a helping hand as they navigate their golden years.
Source: Creative Metro
You can honor veterans throughout the year
T he freedoms people living in the United States are afforded would not have been possible if not for the brave efforts and undying commitment of the many individuals who have served in the nation’s armed forces. American military personnel have played vital roles in securing freedoms for their fellow citizens as well as individuals overseas.
There are many ways to honor veterans, especially those who gave their lives in the name of freedom.
• Visit a local veterans cemetery. The United Service Organizations (USO) notes that most states have national veterans cemeteries. Though some veterans cemeteries are open only to family members of service
personnel, others are open to the general public.
• Help raise funds for veterans organizations. Fun runs or community Memorial Day walks may benefit local veterans organizations that help service members in need. Many service members may need help dealing with the deaths of friends or family members who died while serving in the armed forces, and veterans organizations may provide such help or direct funds to groups that do. That makes participation in events that benefit veterans organizations a great way to honor current military personnel and those who have served in the past, including those who died in service of their country.
• Teach youngsters about the role of the armed forces. There’s a lot competing for the attention of today’s young people, and that can make it easy to overlook the very freedoms that make the United States such a unique country throughout world history. Parents and guardians can emphasize the role the armed forces play in procuring and protecting freedoms in the United States and emphasize the significance of the sacrifices of those who gave their lives to ensure a higher quality of life for all U.S. residents.
Source: Creative Metro
HERALD SPORTS
Oceanside tops Massapequa in OT for title
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
With one overtime in the books and penalty kicks looming in Monday night’s Nassau Class AAA girls’ soccer championship game, Oceanside’s Kaylin Harrington had one thing in mind when she settled a pass from Chloe Polito about 20 yards from the Massapequa net.
“My first instinct was to shoot,” Harrington said. “I knew we were getting close to PKs and I had a little space, so I just shot it.”
It turned out to be the shot heard ‘round Oceanside.
Harrington’s goal 5:35 into the second 15-minute sudden victory OT period gave the Sailors a 2-1 win over the threetime defending champion Chiefs and their first county title since 1978. She was swarmed by teammates at the top of box as a wild celebration followed on the field and in the stands at Farmingdale State College.
“So many emotions are running through my head,” she said. “Our team hasn’t accomplished this in decades and it’s so incredible. We’ve worked really
hard all year and it’s a big moment for us.”
The winning goal came less than a minute after Massapequa nearly added to its unprecedented storied history that includes 18 of the past 22 county titles, and 11 Long Island crowns and 7 state championships since 2003. A corner kick off the foot of Kala Mueller was redirected by Juiana Domingo and just missed finding the far post.
“Game of inches,” Massapequa coach Bruce Stegner said. “It was an evenly played game and Oceanside is deserving. We put a young team out there all season and I’m proud of how we answered their first goal tonight and kept battling.”
The Sailors, who tied Massapequa 1-1 Sept. 5 and defeated the Chiefs 2-0 on the road in the rematch 20 days later, advanced to meet Ward Melville or Commack in the L.I. Class AAA championship game Sunday at 5 p.m. at Farmingdale State.
“We’ve been working a really long time and these girls get all the credit,” first-year Oceanside coach Danielle Chiera said. “It’s always a battle with Massapequa and we knew this would not
come easy. I couldn’t be more proud. It’s a special group and I’m so happy they were able to find a way.”
The first half and opening 11 minutes of the second half were scoreless as both sets of defenders stood tall — Oceanside’s Daniella Cairo, Ryann Zydor, Savannah Castoro, Maddy McMurray and Addison Goldstein, and Massapequa’s Natalie Byrnes, Madeline Ferguson, Hayden Murphy and Nicole Castonguay.
The Sailors struck first with 28:46 remaining in regulation when Vanessa Frangiadakis headed in a perfect cross from Ava Bowers. The lead was shortlived, however, 3:08 to be exact, as Carly Schuler converted on a breakaway after taking a through ball from Castonguay.
“It was a quick momentum swing for sure, but the girls hung in there,” Chiera said.
Each goalkeeper made 6 saves—Julianna Ewashko for Oceanside and Domenica Rasi for Massapequa.
“We’ve had a longtime rivalry with Massapequa and it feels really good to win it,” Zydor said. “Our team is amazing. We never stop working.”
Media Origin Inc./Herald Natalie Byrns and the Chiefs came up just short in their quest for a fourth consecutive county title, falling 2-1 in double OT to Oceanside.
Donofrio, Deasy Donofrio, 3, and Chris Donofrio of Massapequa.
The Long Island chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will be hosting an Alzheimer’s and Dementia conference on Fri., Nov. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hilton Long Island in Melville.
“November is National Family Caregivers Month and we are here to provide resources to families affected by dementia and to show that nobody is alone,” said Lori Maldavir, Director of Program Outreach for Long Island chapter. She explained that the conference is an opportunity for caregivers to share knowledge and uplift each other.
The conference will be a day of education and support for caregivers who will receive information about dementia and local resources.
Throughout the day, educational workshops will be tailored to provide practical skills and resources for caregivers and people with dementia. The educational workshop topics include: understanding the link between hearing loss and Alzheimer›s, resiliency and support amid the losses of dementia caregiving, the best treatments for agitation in Alzheimer’s patients, dementia and driving, patient advocacy and ensuring the caretaker’s care.
“We want our attendees connected to the wealth of information and resources available at the conference to support them on their journey ,” said Adesuwa Watson, a conference committee member. “There will be a nice array of educational workshops for the caregiver and the person living
with the disease.”
Doris Green, director of the NY State Caregiving and Respite Coalition, will be the morning keynote speaker. Green is working to increase awareness and education among business, government and nonprofit entities. Daryl Diaz, a member of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Early-Stage Advisory Group, will be the afternoon keynote speaker. Diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 60, Diaz wants to increase support for younger-onset dementia and encourage others to be proactive in addressing cognitive concerns. Registration is free for all attendees. Limited respite care is provided by Home Companion Services, Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia Center and The Long Island Museum.
To register for the conference, visit alz.org/longisland or call the Alzheimer›s Association 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900.
Based in Melville, the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter serves Nassau and Suffolk counties. The chapter helps all those facing Alzheimer’s and other dementias by providing support groups and educational resources while advancing crucial research and public policy initiatives. There are currently 426,500 New Yorkers living with Alzheimer’s and more than 543,000 caring for them.
The Hilton Long Island is located at 598 Broadhollow Rd., Melville.
President Teddy Roosevelt may be dead for over a century, but on Oct. 27 history came alive as the Town of Oyster Bay held a daylong birthday celebration for its most famous resident.
The event started at Youngs Cemetery and the Theodore Roosevelt Bird Sanctuary and Audobon Center, before moving into the hamlet to celebrate at local Roosevelt-themed venues like Teddy’s Bully Bar and Theodore’s Books. Veterans, residents and Theodore Roosevelt enthusiasts joined reenactor Joe Wiegand to honor the former president’s birthday. He would have been 166.
Walk for Hope, Sun., Nov. 17
CancerCare’s annual Walk for Hope will taking place on Sun., Nov. 17 at the Honorable Joseph Colby Town Golf Course in Woodbury.
Registration and check-in begin at 8 a.m. with opening ceremonies at 9 a.m. and the walk beginning at 9:30 a.m.
For more information and to register, please visit shorturl.at/7209J
The Joseph Colby Town Golf Course is located at 1 S. Woods Rd., Woodbury.
Joanne Yee/Herald
Among the many who celebrated were Karen Dimascio, left, Hailey Dimascio, 9, Olive Donofrio, 9, Calvin Donofrio, 6, Heidi
The Massapequa Park Turkey Trot
The popular Massapequa Turkey Trot will takeplace on Sat., Nov. 23 at Brady Park in Massapequa. Benefitting the YES Community Counseling Center, sponsorship opportunities are available up until November 1.
If you are interested in being a sponsor, visit form.jotform.com/yesccc/2024
BUSINESS BEAT
YESTurkeyTrotSponsorships. For more information, please email info@yesccc. org or call (516) 799-3203.
To register for the run, visit runsignup.com/race/ny/massapequapark/ massapequaparkturkeytrot.
Brady Park is located at 1017 Lake Shore Dr., Massapequa Park.
yster Bay Market concludes Sun., Nov. 17
O yster Bay Market concludes Sun., Nov. 17. Stop by the Oyster Bay Market any Sunday up until Sun., Nov 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Presented by the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, the popular fooddriven market supports local small businesses, artisans, not-for-profits and community organizations.
T he market is located at the front of the Town Hall, 74 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. F or more information, visit oysterbaymainstreet.org or call (516) 922-6982. O
L. to r.: Robin Hepworth, Massapequa Chamber President; Vincent Bordino and his wife, Annette, and NYS Sen. Alexis Weik.
Pequa Park Florist, 60 years in, gets state Empire Award for their service
Massapequa Chamber of Commerce recently nominated a long-time member, Pequa Park Florist, for the New York State Empire Award, which was presented to the owners by NYS Sen. Alexis Weik.
Vincent and Joseph Bordino and their team have been bringing joy to Massapequa and beyond with their stunning arrangements, same-day
delivery, and exceptional service for over 60 years.
Family-owned and operated, Pequa Park Florist is the trusted name for fresh flowers fruit baskets, custom pieces and gifts for any occasion. Pequa Park Florist has also been voted “Best Long Island Florist”.
The florist is at 536 Broadway, Massapequa. It can be reached at pequa -
Promotional items for local businesses are printed as a courtesy, space permitting. Business owners who would like to provide information about a special event for this column can send it to us at cjames@liherald.com.
Pence reflects on Jan. 6 at LIA luncheon
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
One week before Election Day, former Vice President Mike Pence spoke candidly to about 700 people at the Long Island Association’s annual fall luncheon at the Crest Hollow Country Club, in Woodbury. In an hour-long interview led by LIA President Matt Cohen, Pence, 65, spoke with conviction to a politically diverse crowd about the state of American politics, his break with Donald Trump, and the Republican Party’s future.
Pence didn’t mince words when expressing his views on the current political landscape, telling attendees he could not support the Democratic ticket of Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, but he also acknowledged his decision not to endorse the Republican ticket.
“I could never support the Democrat ticket,” Pence said. “But I’m also not endorsing our ticket. I have real concerns about the direction of the Republican Party today.”
Pence’s remarks reflected his unease with what he described as a growing populist influence in the GOP, a shift he feels strays from the party’s conservative principles. He voiced worries about those in the party who, he believes, are increasingly willing to “walk away from our allies and American leadership in the world” and ignore the national debt,
while “marginalizing the sanctity of life.”
One of the most poignant moments of the luncheon came as Pence recounted his actions on Jan. 6, 2021, when a violent mob attacked the U.S. Capitol, some chanting threats against him. Pence explained that he was guided by the oath he took on President Reagan’s Bible, which he considered both a commitment to the American people and a promise to God.
“The Bible says in Psalm 15, ‘He keeps his oath even when it hurts.’ I know something about that,” Pence said, adding that it is against the spirit of the presidency to dictate what votes were or were not counted.
As Pence described it, his differences with Trump surfaced only in the final days of their administration, when Trump, influenced by a group of lawyers outside the administration, became convinced that Pence had the authority to
overturn the election results. Despite their disagreements, Pence recalled that he and Trump “never had a cross word” throughout their four years together, and even reconciled shortly after Jan. 6, parting “very amicably.” He noted, however, that as time went on, Trump returned to much of the same rhetoric that had fueled the events of Jan. 6, solidifying their separation.
Pence’s said that the Republican Party needed to return to what he described as “mainstream conservatism.” He spoke of the importance of maintaining strong American leadership on the world stage, fiscal responsibility, limited government and traditional values. As he sees it, the GOP must decide whether to adhere to those principles or follow “the siren song of populism unmoored to conservative principle.”
Beyond his concerns about his party’s trajectory, Pence expressed a broader worry for the nation’s divided politics. “Our politics are more divided than any time in my life,” he said. “But I’m not convinced the American people are as divided as their politics.” He added that he hoped we would ultimately unite to face common challenges.
Pence closed on an optimistic note, acknowledging that while many Americans feel their values are being “trampled on and disrespected,” the U.S. can still uphold its role as “the leader of the free world.”
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“George’s morning runs were predictable and uneventful. This morning, however, George’s detective radar picked up on some unusual activity. Keeping his pace steady, he watched a tall Italian-looking lady, garyslavinauthor.com
driving a black Range Rover, stop three quarters around the vehicle pathway, step out, pick up four pebbles, and put them on the left side of the bench in front of the vehicle.”
Follow George’s journey through intrigue and suspense in this story set in scenes of familiar Massapequa.
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Roksana Amid/Herald
Long Island Association President Matt Cohen spoke with former Vice President Mike Pence about a range of topics, including his break from Donald Trump, the future of the Republican Party and the importance of upholding constitutional values.
Special Needs Shelter Pets Inspire Rescue Volunteers
Special needs shelter pets can bring out the best in rescue volunteers, as demonstrated by Greyly, a cat with a rare condition at Last Hope Animal Rescue. Last week, Greyly donned a bumblebee Halloween costume for a brief moment and serenaded his caretakers with a playful twist on Paul McCartney’s lyrics:
“Let It BEE — When I find myself in times of trouble, Last Hope volunteers comfort me.”
Greyly’s journey at Last Hope began like many kittens. In 2023, he and his seven-week-old littermate were rescued from an industrial area in Amityville, alongside their feral mother, who was later Trap/Neutered/Returned after weaning her kittens.
Pets, Pets, Pets...
JOANNE ANDERSON
However, after several months, Greyly developed a serious digestive issue that prevented him from keeping food down. Despite his struggles, he remained a loving and friendly companion. Veterinary tests revealed he suffers from a congenital defect known as megaesophagus.
Wearing his bumblebee costume, Greyly sings “Let It BEE.”
Understanding Megaesophagus in Cats
Megaesophagus occurs when a cat’s esophagus fails to move food properly into the stomach, resulting in an enlarged and weakened esophagus. Affected cats often regurgitate undigested food shortly after eating. The condition may stem from various causes, including genetic abnormalities, nerve damage, or trauma, though the exact cause can sometimes be unknown.
Congenital megaesophagus, like Greyly’s, is extremely rare. It typically becomes apparent when kittens are weaned and begin eating solid food. While some breeds, such as Siamese and Abyssinians, may be predisposed to inherited forms, Greyly is a solid gray domestic shorthair, possibly part Russian Blue.
an upright position.
Leslie, a retired RN and former medical worker with Volunteers for Wildlife, made Greyly her priority, drawn to his wonderful disposition. After a year of trial and error, his feeding plan has been refined. He now enjoys small meals multiple times a day and is carried upright by volunteers post-meal for gentle “burping.” His many feline fans love taking turns as “Greyly Burpers,” providing him with the TLC he adores.
Courtney, one of Greyly’s biggest advocates, decided he should wear a costume for Halloween. Though he was not thrilled, he cooperated long enough for a photo session, marking the beginning of his singing career at Last Hope. Greyly is proof that special needs pets are resilient and appreciative despite major medical CATastrophes.
Greyly is a testament to special needs pets, showing that even amid significant medical challenges, they can thrive and bring joy to those around them.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10
•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.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12
Cats with megaesophagus face a high risk of aspiration pneumonia, which can present as coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, fever, and rapid respiratory rates. This condition can be life-threatening, resulting from food or water being inhaled into the respiratory tract.
Treatment for megaesophagus often requires lifelong management, including specialized feeding methods and medications to ensure proper nutrition and avoid complications. Although some cases may be treated surgically, ongoing care and monitoring are usually necessary.
Greyly’s Journey
For months, Greyly was kept in a cage under strict supervision while various feeding strategies were tested. He required canned or soaked kibble, small meals, and elevated, tilted dishes to aid swallowing. Volunteers experimented with different feeding stations, including a kitten version of a Bailey chair, which allows pets to eat in
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)332-0552 or Jill at (516)-220-7808. All calls are confidential.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13
•Nassau County Legislature: 1 p.m., Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Avenue, Mineola. For more information, call (516)-571-6200.
•Massapequa School District Library Board Meeting: 7:45 p.m., Bar Harbour Library, 40 Harbor Ln., Massapequa Park. For more information, call (516) 799-0770.
• 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.
STEPPING OUT
By Karen Bloom
Join the party with Magical moments on ice and his pals
Ailey II
The latest dose of Disney magic arrives with a rockin’ start to the holiday season. Disney On Ice glides into UBS Arena with “Let’s Dance,” on Nov. 13, to the delight of families who enthusiastically embrace every Disney moment. This time around Mickey and the gang are groovin’ at the DJ table and everyone’s on the guest list.
Audiences feel the electric atmosphere from the get-go as Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy remix favorite tunes into colorful stories. “Wish,” an homage to Disney’s 100th anniversary that debuted in the show last fall before the film’s release in theaters — is back in a big way. Now, the entire Kingdom of Rosas is in the spotlight. Wish, Asha, Valentino, Star, and King Magnifico come together for “This Wish,” “I’m a Star” and “This Is The Thanks I Get?!”
Go on a journey to Arendelle and the Enchanted Forest in “Frozen 2” with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf as they are reminded that “Some Things Never Change.”
Also escape to the Pride Lands with Simba and Nala. Audiences should “Be Prepared” as Scar and the hyenas plot to take over the throne. Timon and Pumbaa remind us it’s best just to say “Hakuna Matata” as everyone celebrates the “Circle of Life” as represented in “’The Lion King.” Skilled maestro Sebastian strikes a chord “Under the Sea” when he conducts Ariel, her seven sisters and a colorful orchestra of sea creatures. Everyone will be singing along as Ariel serenades Prince Eric in “The Little Mermaid.”
And, of course, everyone will immediately “Know The Way” when Moana journeys from the island of Motunui to save her home from Te Ka.
These unforgettable characters and their adventures come alive as audiences are transported to world where imaginations soar — and in true Disney spirit “anything can happen if you just believe.”
So it goes with Mikaela Hyryläinen. The skater, who grew up and still makes her home in Finland, joined the Disney On Ice ensemble in 2019 after concluding her competitive skating career — and is living her dream. Proof that ‘Disney magic’ knows no boundaries.
A Disney fan since childhood, naturally, her first experience with the ice spectacle came about in 2006-07 when she attended a production as a young child with her Mom in Helsinki.
“I remember telling my mother that I enjoyed it so much that I would love to do something similar in the future. So that’s actually where everything started for me.”
Of course, Hyryläinen is quite partial to Elsa.
“Elsa’s my favorite since she comes from the Nordic countries like I do. She has these powers with snow and ice. It’s something that when I was growing up I really enjoyed, playing in the snow and all that. It’s cool that Disney has a character like her.”
As always the skating brings a new dimension to the stories we know so well. Solos, pairs, fast-paced ensemble numbers, along with acrobatic routines, keep everyone in awe of what they’re seeing.
awe of what they’re seeing. not
As Hyryläinen puts it: “We not only do the show on the ice, we also bring it into the air.”
She is especially enthusiastic about a segment in “The Little Mermaid” — Under the Sea — when the seven daughters of Triton ‘fly’ with aerial hoops.
Ailey II, which bills itself as “the next generation of dance,” continues its 50th anniversary of bringing “offthe-charts energy” to the stage. Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. Founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble and led by Sylvia Waters for 38 seasons, Ailey II has advanced Alvin Ailey’s vision for more than five decades. The program includes Ailey’s Streams, an abstract exploration of bodies in space, danced to a percussion score; Houston Thomas’ world premiere Down the Rabbit Hole, a continuation of the choreographer’s Follow the White Rabbit (2022; also Francesca Harper’s Luminous, a work that pays homage to the 50th anniversary of Ailey II and the artists who paved the way for future generations.
“They do splits and spins and all sorts of exciting tricks in the air,” she explains.
Expect to see acrobatic stunts throughout the show.
“We have swaypoles, freestyle skaters leaping off ramps, also other kinds of aerial acts that are so special. They help us tell the stories on an even deeper level.”
• Wednesday through Sunday. Nov. 13-17; times vary
• Tickets start at $30; available at DisneyOnIce.com
• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont
While the entire production always gets an enthusiastic response, audiences are especially fond of the “Circle of Life.”
“We see Simba and Nala on the Pride Rock and there are all kinds of different animals. We have flamingos, giraffes, impalas, obviously Timon and Pumbaa and even Zazu. It’s a huge celebration of Simba and Nala and their new cub,” she notes.
In fact ‘celebration’ is an apt descriptive of the entire spectacle. The show encourages fans, as per the Mouse House, to “celebrate the magic of courage, love and adventure.”
And that pretty much sums it up for Hyryläinen.
“There’s nothing more heartwarming than seeing young kids whose eyes light up when they see you and see certain characters on the ice,” she says. “They’re singing so loud, they’re clapping, they’re dancing, they’re having the best time. I’m so happy bringing the Disney magic to all the kids who attend our shows.
“I’m living my best life, getting to bring the stories to life. Plus, this job has taken me to so many cool places in the world. I couldn’t be more grateful for the path I chose.”
A final takeaway from Hyryläinen: “As long as you believe in the magic, as long as you have goals, as long as you have dreams, there’s nothing to stop you.”
Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment
What starts out as a party transforms into an adventure with Mickey and his crew spinning tunes to get it all going.
Friday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
The Seven Wonders
The Seven Wonders “go [their] own way’ when the band brings their popular Fleetwood Mac show to the Madison Theatre. The concert features all your favorite Fleetwood Mac songs — “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” “You Make Lovin’ Fun,” “Rhiannon,” and more — delivered in a powerful performance by a band whose chemistry is as electric as the original. Certainly not your average tribute band, these musicians take it to the next level. While their collective performance experience spans decades, their presence and energy are vivacious, paying homage to the live show of the original Fleetwood Mac. Their onstage charisma invokes the styles of the original band in its prime. It’s a true testament to music’s timelessness.Their performances have been turning heads since their inception.
Friday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m. $50-$60. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 3234444.
THE Your Neighborhood
Madeleine Peyroux
The acclaimed jazz singer, songwriter and interpreter brings her tour to the Landmark stage, Sunday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m., following the spring release of “Let’s Walk,” her first album in six years, The new songs present sides of the artist only touched on in the past. The collection is her most diverse, intimate and bold work as she shares thoughtful and revealing views on personal and societal concerns. Peyroux offers hope through understanding and community by using one of our most unifying means, music. Peyroux is highly acclaimed for her dusky, lyrical style and affinity for reinterpreting classic jazz, blues, and folk standards. Her extraordinary journey is one of the music industry’s most compelling. Emerging in her teens Much like songbird Edith Piaf, Madeleine Peyroux spent her teenage years busking the busy streets of Paris. Just like the ‘little sparrow’, Madeleine befriended the city’s street musicians and made its Latin quarter her first performing stage. Years later, Peyroux would cite iconic Piaf as an influence on her music and record a rendition of the classic La Vie En Rose, soulfully capturing the tune’s romanticism and melancholy. Peyroux drew favorable comparisons to the legendary Billie Holiday, and eventually caught the attention of the record industry. Her debut album, 1996’s “Dreamland,” featured a bevy of noted jazz artists and drew accolades for her distinctive take on blues and jazz standards. Her follow-ups, 2004’s “Careless Love” and 2006’s “Half the Perfect World,” fared even better, charting on the Billboard 200 and achieving gold status. Overwhelmed by her initial success, Peyroux has continued to cut a low-key, if no less lauded, career path.
Though her intimate sound certainly owes a debt to Holiday, she has continued to evolve, carving out her own stylistic niche that balances a modern sensibility with a respect for older vocal traditions. Nine albums and twenty-plus years since her debut, “Dreamland,” Peyroux continues to challenge the genre lines of jazz, venturing into the fertile fields of other contemporary genres with unfading curiosity. Madeleine’s thirst for creative exploration is unfading and her willingness to face creative challenges remains as solid now as it was three decades ago. $70, $65, $58. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Nov. 21
Veterans Luncheon
Massapequa Chamber invites all to network with fellow business professionals at a veterans luncheon, Thursday, Nov. 21, noon, at Massapequa Elks Lodge. $20. RSVP to (516) 541-1443. Register and pre-pay online at massapequachamber. org. 2162 Veterans Blvd., Massapequa.
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech Open House
Nassau BOCES Barry Tech, Long Island’s state-of-the arts career and technical education (CTE) high school, is opening its doors to all students with a passion for a hands-on career. Come and get a “Taste of Tech” at an open house at Joseph M. Barry Career & Technical Education Center, Thursday, Nov. 21 , 5:30 p.m. Following an introduction to the school led by administrators, there will be self-guided tours of the facility.
Additional open house sessions are offered in January and February. Interested students and their families can register for the Open House at nassauboces. org/barrytech or call (516) 6226812 for more information. 1196 Prospect Ave., Westbury.
Holiday Fair
Massapequa Chamber of Commerce presents its 4th Annual Holiday Fair, Sunday, Nov. 24, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Memorare Club. Santa will be on hand for free photos from noon-2 p.m. Other activities include a magic show with John Lepre, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and free face painting. To top all of that off there will be raffles, hot chocolate and more. The first 200 families will receive a gift and attendees are asked to donate a toy for the annual Toys for Tots program. 2183 Jackson Ave., Seaford.
Walk for Hope
CancerCare’s annual Walk for Hope takes place on Sunday, Nov. 17, at the Honorable Joseph Colby Town Golf Course in Woodbury. Registration and check-in begin at 8 a.m. with opening ceremonies at 9 a.m.; walk begins at 9:30 a.m. For more information and to register, visit shorturl.at/7209J. 1 S. Woods Road, Woodbury.
SECTION 00 01 16 - INVITATION TO BID
FARMINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY – FENCE REPLACEMENT
The Farmingdale Public Library will receive separate, sealed bids for the construction contract for Fence Replacement as follows: Contract No. 1 –Fence Replacement
Written bids will be received at 11:00 am on November 22nd, 2024 at Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale, New York 11735, at which time they will be received and read publicly. Bids shall be sent to the attention of Christa Lucarelli, Library Director, Farmingdale Public Library.
Digitized files of the Plans and Specifications in portable document format (PDF) may be obtained from Beatty Harvey Coco Architects commencing on November 7th, 2024 at 10am. The portable document format (PDF) files are furnished without guarantee of compatibility with the Contractor’s software or hardware, and BHC’s sole responsibility for the electronic media is to furnish a replacement of defective files.
Each potential bidder shall register with Beatty Harvey Coco Architects via email at BHCBidding@ bhc-architects.com to obtain the credentials to download the plans and specifications from the architects file share website. All of the following information is required prior to any credentials being furnished to the potential bidder: Company name that the bid will be submitted under, company address, company phone & fax number, contact person and company electronicmail (E-mail) address. Bidders must additionally include their Federal Express number with their information. Upon receiving the above complete information, download credentials will be transmitted to the bidders supplied E-mail address and received by each bidder within 24 (twentyfour) hours starting as of the commencement date stated above. Only those bidders that have registered with the architect shall be eligible to furnish a bid. Those bidders submitting a bid but not registering with the architect are not eligible and will have their bids returned to them unopened.
Public Notices — Your right to know
Bid Security in the form of a Certified Check or Money Order, payable to the order of the Farmingdale Public Library, or a satisfactory Bid Bond executed by the Bidder and an acceptable surety, in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total amount of the Bid, shall be submitted with each Bid. The surety issuing the Bid Bond shall have a minimum policyholder rating of “A“ as listed in A.M. Best’s Insurance Guide and be licensed as an admitted carrier to conduct business in the State of New York.
Each bid must also be accompanied by a Letter of Intent from a surety company acceptable to the Owner, which letter shall assure the Owner that the Bidder, if awarded the contract, will be able to secure from the surety the required bonds in the required amounts.
The successful Bidder will be required to furnish and pay for satisfactory Payment and Performance Bonds covering 100% of the work. The Surety providing bid security and performance and payment bonds shall have a minimum policy holder rating of “A“ as listed in Best’s Insurance Guide and be licensed to conduct business in the State of New York.
All questions and requests for clarifications must be submitted in writing, (via e-mail or mail), and received no later than November 14th, 2024 to:
Beatty
Harvey Coco Architects
Email: BHCBidding@bhc-architects.com
Answers to bidders’ questions will be published in writing to all bidders of record no later than November 15th, 2024.
Each bid must be submitted on the official forms furnished in the bid package. Each contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or the proposals will be rejected with Forty-five (45) days of the date of opening proposals subject, however, to the right reserved by the Board of Trustees for the Farmingdale Public Library, to waive any informalities in, reject any or all proposals, accept any bid in whole or in part, or to advertise for new proposals, if, in the opinion of this Board of Trustees, the best interests of the Farmingdale Public Library will thereby be promoted. This invitation is an
offer to receive proposals for a contract and not an offer of a contract.
All bids shall include noncollusive bidding certification or statement required by Section 103-d of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York and shall also contain a nonsegregated facilities certificate which shall provide that the bidder does not maintain or provide for his employees’ facilities which are segregated on a basis of race, creed, color or national origin, whether such facilities are segregated by directive or on a de facto basis.
The contract will contain a provision that every laborer and workman employed on or about the work contemplated by the contract shall be paid not less than the rate of wages which are set forth in the prevailing wage rate schedule from the New York State Department of Labor.
The Farmingdale Public Library reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive irregularities and informalities in bidding.
Board of Trustees
Farmingdale Public Library
DATED: November 6th, 2024 24-670. 11/6
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Nationstar Mortgage LLC dba Mr. Cooper, Plaintiff AGAINST Peter Falci, Kim Falci, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 5, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 9, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 287 North Delaware Avenue, Massapequa, NY 11758. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Massapequa, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 52, Block: 527, Lot: 245. Approximate amount of judgment $800,575.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #009037/2013. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County
COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https:// ww2.nycourts.gov/Admin/ oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held "Rain or Shine". Only Bank or Certified check payable to the Referee will be accepted for the downpayment. No third party check or cash will be accepted. Lisa Goodwin, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-046203-F00 82875 24-668 11/6, 13, 20, 27
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a Public Hearing will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024 at 7 PM in Village Hall, 151 Front Street, Massapequa Park, New York to consider the Use of Community Development Funds for the 50th Year as follows: Proposed Use: Residential Rehabilitation $80,000.00 yone wishing to be heard will be given the opportunity at the above time and place mentioned.
LINDA TUMINELLO, RMC VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR
By order of the Board of Trustees of the Inc. Village of Massapequa Park 24-669 11/6
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ELECTION MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY
NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that the Annual Election of the Massapequa Fire District will take place on December 10, 2024, between the hours of 2:00 PM until 9:00PM at the following two locations within said fire district; (1) West End Firehouse, Hicksville Road and Grand Avenue, in Massapequa, New York and (2) East End Firehouse, Merrick Road, East Shore Drive and (3)
Massapequa Park Firehouse, north side of Front Street between First and Second Avenues, Massapequa Park, New York. in Massapequa, New York.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that registered voters will be permitted to vote at any of the above listed locations.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that said Annual Election of the Massapequa Fire District will be conducted for the purpose of electing one (1) fire commissioner for a five (5) year term commencing on January 1, 2025, and ending on December 31, 2029, All duly registered residents of the Massapequa Fire District shall be eligible to vote, but residents must be registered to vote by November 18, 2024 with the Nassau County Board of Elections.
PLEASE FURTHER TAKE NOTICE, that Candidates for District Office shall file their names with the Secretary of the Massapequa Fire District at the Massapequa Fire District Office Building located at One Brooklyn Avenue, Massapequa, New York, no later than twenty (20) days before the date of the election. Said filing shall be submitted in the form of a petition subscribed by twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the Fire District to the Fire District Secretary. Petition forms shall be made available by the Fire District Secretary.
Dated: October 28, 2024 By order of the Board of Fire Commissioners Massapequa, NY Massapequa Fire District, Town of Oyster Bay Nassau County 24-672. 11/6
Notice of formation of: Gina Pelle, LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/02/2024
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: Gina Pelle LLC, 140 Meyer Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580
Purpose: any lawful act (Real Estate)
24-668 10/9, 16, 23, 30, 11/6, 13
Notice of formation of ENGLIFI LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/06/2024 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:
Englifi LLC, 3683 Carrel Blvd., Oceanside, NY 11572. Purpose: any lawful act. 24-673. 10/23, 30, 11/6, 13, 20, 27
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: FRONTLINE PERFORMANCE, LLC.
Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 10/21/2024. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: KHEMCHAN SEWNARINE 712 LINCOLN STREET BALDWIN NY 11510
Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 24-674. 10/30, 11/6, 13, 20, 27, 12/4
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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Spectacular Tutor
Replacing concrete with glass in a high-rise condo?
Q. We have a condo in Florida, and read your column even when we’re there, which is half the year. Our condo board is proposing “improvements,” aside from all the regulatory issues we’ve been hit with due to building collapses and storms. Our building faces the ocean and is 17 stories tall. It has spectacular views and large balconies. One proposed renovation is to remove the concrete walls between the balconies, which we were told are not structural, and replace them with glass walls to improve our views and modernize the building. Aside from the huge cost increase we will be forever paying, do you think that’s a good idea? The board hired engineers to look at it, and they say it can be done. We are concerned about glass not holding up to hurricanes, since all of the balcony doors and windows had to be replaced with specially made strong frames and glass. What should we tell our board?
A. Your address helped me look at the satellite view from my computer. I’m skeptical about whether this would be an improvement. Certainly it would add glitz and glamour to the building, probably making the value as sky-high as the cost and the height. I understand why you live on a high floor, considering the views.
But any building has to be examined as the sum of its many parts. Its appearance is only part of the equation. There are three basic components to what is defined as “architecture”: appearance, function and structure. To a trained professional, the composition will fail if the three components aren’t working together in a harmonious way.
In your building’s case, there are certain aspects that are taken for granted, but to an engineer or architect, the placement of those vertical fin walls not only accentuates the “verticality,” giving the building an illusion of greater height, but the fins act as a wind break to the balconies, which reduces the tendency for the wind to whip across the face of the building. This whipping wind is, at times, dangerous, and is referred to as the Bernoulli effect. This phenomenon sucks roof shingles off homes and gives lift to airplanes. It’s also the reason your toilet draws waste down the pipes when water flows from above the bowl downward.
In your case, the removal or replacement of those walls may actually negatively alter the function of the building’s integrity to withstand high winds in the name of glitzy appearance. I wouldn’t recommend the jack-hammering and saw-cutting of the fins unless I first spoke to the original designers to find out if it was their intention to have those spines on the outside of the building to strengthen against natural horizontal movement, and whether they intended them to break up the high winds in extreme hurricane events. Sometimes it’s better to leave a design alone when the conclusions are better but not well understood than to tinker and ruin the integrity.
Stuff HERALD
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If only politics could emulate Notre Dame-Navy football
I’ve been a lifelong lover of sports, particularly baseball and college football. The rivalries. The tension. The thrill of victory. The agony of defeat. Watching warriors in the arena.
Having said that, I’m generally not one of those guys who equate the gridiron, the playing field, the rink, the tennis court or the boxing ring with the challenges of everyday life or those facing the nation. But there are exceptions. One in particular. I truly wish that the almost century-long football rivalry between the U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen and Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish could serve as a model for the world of politics and government.
Beginning in 1927, Navy and Notre Dame have played each other 98 times on the gridiron, missing only the 2020 season because of the coronavirus pandemic. While Notre Dame has pretty much dominated the series, winning 82 of the games, this rivalry transcends so much of what passes for college sports
and “student-athletes” today.
While every Notre Dame-Navy game is intense and hard-fought, there is no trash talk or demeaning the other team or its players. At the end of the game, no matter who wins or loses, the players on both teams stand respectfully together for the playing of their respective alma maters.
At the end of the game, no matter who wins, the players on both teams stand together.
A further differential between this and other rivalries is that these players are truly students, who must meet academic standards. Notre Dame always ranks at or near the top of colleges across the country in the percentage of athletes who graduate and receive degrees. Navy has similar standards, and its graduates are also obligated to serve five years of active military duty after graduation. Understandably, this has made it increasingly difficult to recruit top high school players who have dreams of going on to make millions of dollars in the National Football League rather than being shot at in combat. Certainly since the Vietnam War, Navy hasn’t been the football powerhouse it was during the 1940s and ’50s.
While Notre Dame has managed dur-
ing most of these years to compete at a high level, it has never considered dropping Navy from its schedule, thanks to a commitment it made after World War II, which Notre Dame survived only because of Navy. As a private Midwest school with no large benefactors at the time and so many students being drafted into the war effort, Notre Dame was faced with imminent financial collapse. The Naval Academy saved the day by setting up a major training base on the Notre Dame campus, providing the university with fiscal solvency and ensuring its survival as an academic institution — and a football colossus.
The Fighting Irish won the national championship in three of the four years following the end of the war.
Realizing and appreciating how obligated it was to Navy for its very survival, Notre Dame made a solemn commitment to keep Navy on its football schedule for as long as Navy wanted. So the rivalry and the series have continued all these years. But it goes beyond a financial obligation. There is a mutual respect between the schools that’s reflected at every level, including Notre
Dame’s emulation of Navy with its firstrate naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program.
No matter how often I’ve seen it, I am always moved by the pregame ceremonies, with each school acknowledging the other’s traditions, and the postgame alma mater camaraderie among the players, no matter how hard the battle or how bitter the defeat.
Think how gratifying it would be if our national leaders could follow the lead of Notre Dame and Navy. Fight hard but respect the other side. Look for common ground in the national interest without fear of being labeled a Republican In Name Only or a traitor by your own party.
No, politics is not college football. But our political leaders could learn something by emulating the best of college football, exemplified by the Fighting Irish and the Midshipmen.
And yeah, Notre Dame did beat Navy in this year’s game, 51-14, on Oct. 26. But even in the win-at-all-costs world of college football, the score was almost secondary in this unique traditional rivalry. Go Irish! Go Navy!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
EIt’s
time for a new era of political civility
lection Day has come and gone. While the results are unofficial or pending, the passing of this period is the happiest thing that has happened to me in years. By any measure, the 2024 election season has been a brutal, emotional and unsettling time. Our nation has been bruised, battered and ripped apart by the tensions that elections can cause, and now, happily, the campaigns have come to an end. Depending on the results, we will soon either be talking about the winners’ plans for the future or steeling ourselves for days and weeks of bitter court battles. It may be that the lawyers will be fully engaged in what they do best, but it’s long past time for the country to begin thinking about how we can start the healing process that is so badly needed.
So much of the division that we have been experiencing is the product of a political system that has no referee to stop any foul play or ugly communica-
tion. I have witnessed many campaigns over the years, and I have been involved in my own. But more recent campaigns have sunk to levels of conflict that previously were impossible to imagine.
The root cause of the bitterness can be attributed to the candidates, but the real cause is money, money and money. Since the U.S. Supreme Court allowed unlimited expenditures in elections, billions of dollars have poured into shadow committees, none of which care about dignity, decency or fair play. These “dark” committees, whose backers are unknown and well hidden, are not reluctant to drag campaigns into the gutter.
Rlaw that would change how the political system is funded. But there are too many elected officials who like the current system and have no desire to clean it up. Many of them represent safe districts, and are happy to be able to beat up a challenger using phantom funding.
ecent campaigns have sunk to levels of conflict previously unimagined.
The average voter has no idea who or what is behind a political television commercial, except those that mention a candidate by name and voice that candidate’s approval. But there are countless commercials, mailings and social media postings that are misleading. They may mention some committee, but you will never know who is really behind the presentation.
You would think that members of Congress, who are often the object of smear campaigns, would want to pass a
The use of untraceable money isn’t just something that is connected to the campaign process. The same donors spend fortunes throughout the year, wining and dining legislators, favoring them with extravagant trips and coming up with countless other imaginative ways to curry favor with members of Congress. Some legislators get so much financial support from some industries or special-interest groups that it’s fair to say that they’ve been captured and are fully owned by them.
If the divisions in our country are linked to too much money in the system, how can America be healed? The answer is in the hands of the public. It may be unfair to suggest that the voters have any responsibility for the bitterness that we have experienced, but voters can’t be excused from helping to cure a government evil.
The thing that makes certain elected officials happy is the fact that average citizens are too busy to monitor the conduct of their legislators. Over the course of a typical year in office, members of Congress vote on dozens of bills, and the people back at home have no knowledge of how they vote. It’s the responsibility of the media to devote more space to reporting on how our representatives vote.
But to make our world a little more civil, voters must demand that Congress make a serious effort to clean up our corrupt campaign system. At least once or twice a year, call your congressman or congresswoman and ask what he or she is doing to change how we elect our officials. Don’t talk to a staff member. Insist on talking to the person who represents you.
It isn’t a hopeless task to seek changes in the election process. Nothing is written in stone, and you can make things happen. It’s time for an American political climate change.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
HERALD
aNow the real work begins
s the Herald reaches your mailbox, the election results may or may not be fully tallied.
Regardless of outcomes, one truth remains constant: Long Island is our shared home, and its future depends far more on what unites us than what divides us.
Although the voting machines are making their way from the gymnasiums of schools and recreation centers back into storage, democracy doesn’t pack up and leave town when the polls close. The real measure of our community’s strength is found in how we work together on the other 364 days of the year. And on that score, Long Island’s story is nothing short of remarkable.
Look around our communities. The volunteer firefighter rushing to an emergency call isn’t asking whether the home in danger voted red or blue. The teacher staying late to help struggling students isn’t checking their parents’ party registration. The civic association working to preserve local wetlands isn’t conducting political litmus tests at its meetings.
What binds our communities together runs deeper than partisan politics. We
letters
Peter King always fought for us
To the Editor:
I enjoy former Congressman Peter King’s commentary in the Herald, and I’ve appreciated his efforts to support Long Island through the years.
The various natural disasters that have recently occurred across the country bring back memories of Superstorm Sandy and Sept. 11, and the many federal and state officials who fought King’s efforts for relief. I think it would make an interesting column to see how many of those elected officials are now clamoring for similar relief in their jurisdictions.
ToM
JAffA Rockville Centre
So who collects all those lawn signs?
To the Editor:
Election Day has come and gone. It reminds me of the 1960s television show “The o uter Limits.” With the end of around-the- clock commercials by politicians, political parties, political action groups and special-interest groups, we
all want our children to thrive in Long Island’s excellent schools. We share concerns about protecting our sole-source aquifer — the water beneath our feet that sustains every one of us. We worry about young families being priced out of our neighborhoods, and about our seniors being able to age in place in the communities they helped build. We take pride in our beautiful shorelines and want to preserve them for future generations.
These challenges don’t come with party labels attached. Potholes don’t care how you voted. High property taxes affect everyone’s wallet. Delays on the Long Island Rail Road don’t discriminate based on political affiliation. The solutions to these shared challenges won’t come from political grandstanding, but rather from the often unsung work of community engagement: attending town halls, participating in school board meetings, joining civic associations, supporting local businesses, and staying informed about local issues.
Whether it’s addressing water quality concerns, tackling the housing crisis, preparing for rising sea levels or ensuring that our downtowns remain vibrant,
the solutions will come from sustained community engagement, not just periodic trips to the polls. This means neighbors working with neighbors, towns collaborating with towns, and citizens engaging with their government at all levels.
As your community newspaper, the Herald has chronicled Long Island’s journey through countless election cycles. We’ve seen the political pendulum swing back and forth, but we’ve also witnessed something more fundamental: the enduring strength of our communities when residents commit to the daily work of democracy.
So whether you’re pleased or disappointed with Tuesday’s results, remember that the most important work happens between elections. Get involved. Stay informed. Attend local meetings. Join community organizations. Talk with neighbors who see things differently than you do. Model behavior you’d be proud for your children to emulate.
The ballot you cast on Tuesday mattered. But what you do today, tomorrow, and every day after could matter even more. Let’s all work together for a prosperous Long Island.
now return control of your TV to you — until the next election cycle. No more telephone robo calls, text messages or candidate campaign mailings clogging mailboxes and weighing down our hard-working postal employees.
finally, some peace and quiet! Candidates who claimed they cared about the environment should now do their part. Winners and losers should have their campaign staff and volunteers pick up all the
opinions Fentanyl is taking too many lives
the other day, I was browsing my LinkedIn feed and came across an illustration that caught my eye. There were three glass jars, all the same size, each containing a black ball. The first jar’s ball filled the jar. The second jar’s ball was smaller, and the third was tiny. a caption read, “People tend to believe that grief shrinks over time.”
Underneath was another set of jars, increasing from small to large. This time the balls were the same size, filling the first jar entirely, and as the jars grew larger, it was as if the jar was growing around the ball. The caption read, “What really happens is that we grow around our grief.”
Grief is universal. Some grieve when a favorite restaurant closes, while others mourn a pet or a relationship. But what about a parent grieving the loss of a child? as a father of two daughters, I can’t fathom losing one of them. The thought gives me a pit in my stomach. I can only imagine the pain becoming part of me, like an organ or an appendage.
In theory, I agree with the illustra-
tion’s message. It offers context to the unfathomable. But what if your child were murdered? Would that change things? What if the murder were preventable? I hope to never find out. Unfortunately, it’s a reality for many families, especially because of fentanyl.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard of fentanyl. Most likely, you know someone who has died from it or has been affected in some way. Kids are dying, and families are being torn apart. you might be mistaken if you think it’s not happening in your neighborhood.
iHere are some sobering facts from the CDC:
■ Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine.
■ In 2022, it caused more than 73,800 preventable deaths.
n my years of recovery work, I’ve attended too many wakes and funerals.
Many associate overdoses with rock stars or homeless junkies, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. your child doesn’t need to be a drug addict to die from fentanyl poisoning — it’s everywhere. Complacency is fentanyl’s greatest ally. It’s being found in drugs like marijuana. Unless drugs are prescribed by a doctor or come from a reputable dispensary, you’re playing russian roulette.
Consider that scene in “The Deer Hunter”: your child is Christopher Walken, the gun he’s holding to his head is the party your child is attending, and the lone bullet is that Xanax laced with fentanyl that they’re trying for the first time.
Letters
thousands of campaign signs that litter our roads and highways. Perhaps they could use leftover campaign funds to hire homeless or unemployed people to collect this litter, along with people who have been sentenced to perform community service.
If candidates refuse to clean up after themselves, your local village, town or county department of highways or public works should do the job and send candidates the bill.
Larry Penner Great Neck
Let’s turn the seasonal page, not just on weather
To the editor:
We are entering a different season in a merica. It’s not a season everyone likes or voted for, but it’s changing. For some it’s better, for some it’s worse. For some it’s good news, and for some it’s bad.
your perspective colors your season. If you love autumn, then you have enjoyed the current season in much of a merica. y ou haven’t enjoyed it if you’ve been in the path of a hurricane, but you’ve enjoyed it if you live in most any other place in america. We’ve had a dry fall, but it’s been beautiful.
Political seasons are hard on the nation. We’ve been inundated by political advertisements for months. The presidential campaign went on forever. We are so ready to move on.
There’s always a new season around the corner. It’s best for all of us if we can make the best of each one. They pass by, so enjoy them, love them, roll with them.
Try to make the best of your current season in life. It’s not always easy. We don’t like the seasons when we’re sick, and seasons that are difficult, and even harsh and cruel, come to us all if we live long enough. So, enjoy the good ones.
Dr. GLenn MoLLeTTe
Comments about our stories? Send a letter to the editor to execeditor@liherald.com.
■ accidental overdose is now the second-leading cause of death among young people.
In Texas, law enforcement has seized over 505 million lethal doses of fentanyl. That’s enough to kill every person in the U.S. It’s simple math: Fentanyl = death.
In my profession, I facilitate free narcan training. narcan reverses opioid overdoses. It saves lives.
People often ask, “Why would a drug dealer want to kill their clients?” The answer is simple: fentanyl is cheap and highly addictive. That translates to higher profits and return customers: high risk but high reward.
In my almost 15 years of recovery, I’ve attended too many wakes and funerals for kids and adults. There’s an expression in recovery: Sometimes you have to step over the bodies. That should be reserved for battlefields, yet we live on a battlefield where fentanyl is a weapon of mass destruction.
I serve on a Community Prevention
Coalition working to educate our kids about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. It includes school administrators, social workers, police officers, local merchants, and parents who have lost loved ones to fentanyl. We focus on combating the spread of this deadly drug through our communities.
Grief shouldn’t be part of a parent’s job description, yet it often is. While it’s impossible to avoid all grief, we can reduce the chances of preventable loss. We must act to effect change. you don’t have to be a crusader, but sitting on our hands isn’t an option. We can spread awareness to prevent more fentanyl poisonings.
a mentor once told me, “If you’re not part of the solution, then you’re part of the problem.” Here’s the call to action: Join your local community coalition. Get trained to administer narcan. Talk to your kids about substance dangers. Write to local officials about their plans for the opioid crisis, and consult professionals about prevention strategies. Pick one action, and you’ll be part of the solution. a community that works together always wins.
Jason Mayo is a certified recovery peer advocate at a nonprofit community recovery and outreach center on Long Island. He is a contributing writer for The Sober Curator, has written for the Forbes Business Council and is the author of the children’s books “Do Witches Make Fishes?” and “The Boy and the Billy Goat.”
Framework by Lisa LaMagna & Billy Reyes In between changings of the guard at Buckingham Palace — London
Jason maYo
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