Oyster Bay Herald 09-27-2024

WaterFront Center teaches students about the Sound

By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Jericho High School’s AP biology class recently set sail on an educational excursion at the Oyster Bay WaterFront Center, where students explored the rich biodiversity and marine ecology of the bay. The trip, which took place aboard one of the center’s historic vessels — in this case the Ida May — combined hands-on scientific activities with real-world data collection, giving the participants a unique opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in a natural setting.

For four hours, the students rotated through a series of educational stations both on the boat and on land. Each station focused on a different aspect of marine biol-

ogy and environmental science, from plankton identification to oyster growth analysis, and even water quality testing at various points in the bay. According to Shannon Kelly, the WaterFront Center’s marketing director, the program has been a highlight for Jericho’s biology students for more than a decade.

“We’ve been working with Jericho for years now, and it’s always such an exciting and enriching experience for the students,” Kelly said. “We try to make the trip as interactive as possible, allowing students to not just learn, but also engage with the environment in a meaningful way.”

One of the key activities on board was the plankton identification station, where stu -

School district’s new leadership plan unveiled

By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District has introduced a significant change to its leadership structure, a move that district officials say is aimed at enhancing student achievement by providing more focused support for curriculum and instruction. At the Sept. 17 Board of Education meeting, administrators presented details on the restructuring, which was approved unanimously by the board.

Wdriving force behind all our decisions.”

The previous administrative structure had several leadership roles — including directors, assistant directors and curriculum coordinators — working parallel to school principals. Ianni explained that while this arrangement worked, it often led to communication challenges and a dilution of focus.

e’ve made these changes to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed

FRANCESCO IANNI

Superintendent Francesco Ianni, who spearheaded the changes, emphasized that the new structure was designed to prioritize student results.

Superintendent, Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District

“When positions become vacant, our goal is always to fill them with the most qualified candidate,” Ianni said. “We focus on student success and what students need. That’s the

“What you want in a school is centralized leadership,” he said. “When there are too many chiefs working independently, it can be less productive. We wanted to make sure the principal, as the educational leader of the building, had clear oversight and direction.”

Under the new system, each school’s principal will now oversee a team that includes assistant principals, “curriculum associates” and instructional specialists, such as lead

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Courtesy WaterFront Center

Students from Jericho got the chance to sail on the historic ship the Ida May during their visit to the WaterFront Center.

Meet Us at Mini Mart!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6TH | 10AM - 5PM

Enjoy music, food, shopping and fun at the 52nd Anniversary on Sea Cliff Ave!

Stop by our booth in front of our Sea Cliff Office to enter the raffle and grab a giveaway!

We will be collecting donations on behalf of our Daniel Gale Charitable Foundation, which supports over 25 Organizations throughout Long Island and Queens including Island Harvest, City Harvest, Pink Aid, America’s Vet Dogs, North Shore Land Alliance, and many more.

For more information about our mission, our team, events and organizations we support, visit danielgalefoundation.org. See you at Mini Mart!

Grateful Dead groove into Oyster Bay

By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com

The Bahr Gallery in Oyster Bay opened its latest exhibition, “Vintage Grateful Dead Posters,” on Sept. 21. The show, running through Jan. 4, 2025, will feature more than 40 rare, first-edition psychedelic rock posters, many of which have never been displayed at the gallery before.

Located at 95 Audrey Ave., Bahr Gallery is known for showcasing rare and historically significant works of psychedelic rock art. Admission to the exhibition is free, and the gallery is open Fridays and Saturdays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., with additional viewings available by appointment.

Ted Bahr, owner and curator of the gallery, said the Grateful Dead’s deep connection to the psychedelic movement and their continuous appeal made this exhibition a natural choice.

“The Grateful Dead were at the center of the psychedelic poster revolution in the 1960s,” Bahr said. “Their improvisational music and association with the early ‘Acid Tests’ in San Francisco made them a dream subject for the poster artists of the time.”

The exhibition includes works from the “Big Five” of San Francisco’s psychedelic poster art: Wes Wilson, Stanley Mouse, Victor Moscoso, Rick Griffin, and Alton Kelley. Among the highlights are the famous 1966 “Skeleton & Roses” poster by Mouse and Kelley, which became a core part of the Grateful Dead’s iconography, and Griffin’s 1969 “Aoxomoxoa,” a first edition that was later used as the cover of the band’s third album. Other rare pieces include posters from the band’s 1970 performances, such as one from a concert at MIT just two days after the Kent State shootings.

Bahr said this is the first Grateful Dead exhibition at the gallery in several years, with 15 posters making their debut at the gallery.

“I’ve collected a number of new pieces

Some of the posters featured, such as this one titled ‘Aomoxoa,’ had a large impact on the psychedelic art of the period.

The posters will be featured at the gallery through Jan. 4, 2025.

that have never been shown before, along with several rare posters that even longtime visitors might not have seen,” Bahr said.

Grateful Dead posters from the 1960s and 1970s have become iconic, recognized not only for their vibrant, psychedelic art but also for their historical significance. Many similar pieces are now displayed in institutions like the Smithsonian and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

“The Grateful Dead’s legacy is not just about their music but also about the visual art that accompanied it,” said Bahr. “I hope visitors walk away with a deeper appreciation of how this art reflected the music and the times in which it was created.”

For more information about the exhibition or to schedule a private tour, visitors can contact the gallery directly at (516) 2831967.

Photos courtesy Bahr Gallery

The new exhibition will feature 15 Grateful Dead posters that have never before been shown at the Bahr Gallery.

L’Shanah Tovah

Happy New Year

The Joy of Living

us take a moment to remember that joy itself is a primary purpose of living.

“This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.”

— George Bernard Shaw

“Well, your greatest joy definitely comes from doing something for another, especially when it was done with no thought of something in return.”

—

John Wooden

“Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy.”

— Leo Buscaglia

“A sense of humor...is needed armor. Joy in

one’s heart and some laughter on one’s lips is a sign that the person down deep has a pretty good grasp of life.”

—Hugh Sidey

“There are those who give with joy, and that joy is their reward.”

— Kahlil Gibran

“The three factors that seem to have the greatest influence on increasing our happiness are our ability to reframe our situation more positively, our ability to experience gratitude, and our choice to be kind and generous.”

— Dalai Lama

“Things won are done, joy’s soul lies in the doing”

—

William Shakespeare

“As selfishness and complaint pervert the mind, so love with its joy clears and sharpens the vision.”

— Helen Keller

HOLIDAY GREETING

Blessings for the High Holidays

As we prepare to enter the most sacred time of our Jewish calendar year, our hearts may feel heavier than usual. Jewish tradition teaches that during the month of Elul, which precedes the New Year, individuals should reflect on their deeds over the past year and strive to rectify any transgressions before Rosh Hashanah. This reflection allows us to enter the High Holy Days with a sense of purity and a lighter burden, enabling us to focus on our prayers and fostering greater integrity during the 10 Days of Repentance.

This year, our burden extends beyond ourselves to the entire community of Israel—both in terms of peoplehood and nationhood. We face rising global antisemitism and are weeks away from the anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,400 Israelis and the abduction of more than 240, many of whom remain unaccounted for. The ongoing conflict has led to countless additional casualties among terrorists, soldiers, and civilians.

“One year later, Israel still faces dangerous threats from Hamas, even though it has been demonstrably weakened, as well as from Hezbollah and Iran. Israelis continue to feel traumatized, and awareness grows regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. One year later, Netanyahu’s coalition remains in power with few signs of collapse. The hostages are still in captivity, and time is running out. Israel is not the same country it was before. I find hope in those who prioritize their country and society, those who protest for their loved ones, and those who recognize that peace cannot come until both peoples are acknowledged. One year later, I find hope in our perseverance and commitment as a Jewish people to care for one another.”

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I often find comfort in the writings of Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Executive Director of the Association of Reform Zionists of America. In his latest column, he reflects on the anniversary with these words:

As we enter the Jewish New Year 5785, may we hold onto the hope of finding a path to end this conflict, bring the hostages home, and forge a true path toward peace with our neighbors. Let us work together to achieve shalom—peace—so we may experience the High Holy Days with sacredness, purity of spirit, and hope for our collective future.

L’shanah Tovah U’metukah—wishing you a good and sweet New Year.

Rabbi Michael S. Churgel, RJE North Country Reform Temple

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Rabbi Michael chuRgel

oyster bay

I stand with you, working across party lines for commonsense solutions – from strengthening our border, and reinstating the SALT deduction, to protecting our air and water, I’ll always reject extremism and work to find solutions that make a difference for you and your family.

MY PRIORITIES:

★ Secure the Border

★ Reinstate the SALT Deduction

★ Bringing Federal Dollars Back to Long Island

★ Help Heal the Divide in Congress

Learning about local marine biodiversity

dents used a plankton tow to collect water samples from the bay. After retrieving the samples, they prepared microscope slides and identified varieties of plankton using identification sheets. The analysis gave students a close-up look at the foundation of the marine food chain.

At the oyster life cycle and growth station, students learned about the oyster’s crucial role in the local ecosystem. The center is part of the Billion Oyster Project, a New York-based initiative aimed at restoring oyster populations to improve water quality. Students measured and weighed oysters that had been growing at the WaterFront Center for nearly a year, analyzing their growth patterns and calculating mortality rates.

“We’ve been growing oysters on the dock for months, and it’s fascinating for the students to see the differences in growth and health from year to year,”

Lauren Potak, the center’s head educator, explained. “Oysters play such an important ecological role by filtering water, so this activity not only teaches about biology, but also about environmental sustainability.”

Another station involved water quality testing at different locations around the bay. Using a Van Dorn bottle, students collected water samples from various depths to measure levels of nutrients like nitrates and phosphates, which are critical indicators of the bay’s health. The data was gathered from spots including Turtle Cove, the WFC mooring field and near Cold Spring Har-

bor, at the mouth of the Long Island Sound.

“We make sure the students understand how depth and location affect water quality,” Kelly said. “For example, nutrient levels can be different near the shore versus in deeper waters, and those differences have an impact on marine life.”

The final on-board activity involved a bottom sampler with a dredge, where students used specialized equipment to collect samples of sediment and marine life from the bay floor. Students pulled up spider crabs, sea urchins, and various species of fish and mollusks, which

they examined and recorded.

After the activities on the water, students moved onto the beach to a seining station, where they gathered marine organisms using a seine net. Walking through the water with the net, they collected species like silversides, mummichugs and hermit crabs. This provided a snapshot of the bay’s biodiversity, and helped the students conduct population counts, further enhancing their understanding of marine ecosystems.

“The seining activity is always a favorite,” Potak said. “The students get to see firsthand how many different species call the bay home. It’s a fun way to

teach them about population sampling and biodiversity.”

The WaterFront Center’s unique program strikes a balance between handson learning and academic instruction. Each station is designed to be engaging while teaching key scientific concepts that tie back to the AP biology curriculum. According to Kelly, the experience is invaluable for students, especially as they prepare for the exam.

“They’re not just reading from a textbook,” she said. “They’re out there collecting data, running tests and analyzing their results. It makes the science come alive for them, and it’s something they can carry with them into their future studies.”

Potak added that the hands-on nature of the trip helps solidify what the students are learning. “When they’re physically taking samples and recording data, it sticks with them more than just listening to a lecture,” she said. “By the time they return to the classroom, they have real-world experience that reinforces the scientific concepts.”

The students returned to school with data sheets full of observations and new insights into the health and dynamics of Oyster Bay. They planned to review the information they gathered in the classroom, where their teacher will guide them through an analysis of the results and a comparison with data from previous years.

“It’s an experience that really brings everything full circle for them,” Kelly said. “And we’re always excited to welcome them back.”

Clerical workers take to the street in O.B.

By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Clerical workers from the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District gathered outside Oyster Bay High School during a Board of Education meeting on Sept. 17 to protest stalled contract negotiations, calling for a living wage after over a year of bargaining. The workers, represented by the Civil Service Employees Association, have been operating without a contract and are pushing for a deal that includes fair pay increases.

Superintendent Francesco Ianni declined to comment on the negotiations, but did say that the district was still “negotiating with the unit.” George Storm, president of CSEA’s local unit representing the clerical workers, said the group is demanding wages that reflect the rising cost of living.

“We’ve been negotiating for over a year now, and we’ve been forced to go to impasse,” Storm said. “We’re out here fighting for a living wage.”

The clerical unit, made up of 25 members, includes senior clerk typists and other civil service titles. According to Crystal Brooks, president of the clerical unit and an 18-year employee in the

district, many workers have been struggling with stagnant wages and rising healthcare costs.

“We’ve been underpaid for years,” Brooks said. “In the last few contracts, we settled for one-and-a-half percent raises, while the cost of living skyrocketed. Now, we want to make sure we’re earning a livable wage.”

Brooks, who said she earns $70,000

per year after nearly two decades with the district, pointed out that newer employees are paid significantly less.

“For someone hired in 2013, their starting salary is around $47,000 to $50,000,” she said. “They’ll never see $70,000, and they’re being offered oneand-a half percent raises. Plus, they’re required to pay 25 percent of their health insurance, which goes up every

year, leaving them with less take-home pay.”

Workers say that while their salaries stagnate, other employees in the district are seeing much higher pay increases.

“We’ve got people in other units getting significant raises,” Brooks said. “A 2 percent raise for someone making over $300,000 is about $61,000, but for us, it’s only around $2,000 a year.”

The clerical workers’ call for a fair contract comes as the district faces broader labor tensions. Protesters noted that other units within the district have also raised concerns about pay disparities.

Despite these challenges, the clerical workers remain committed to their jobs and the students they serve, but frustration is growing. Many feel that the district has taken advantage of their dedication to settle for less than they deserve.

“We’ve always settled for little to nothing,” Brooks said. “But we can’t keep doing that. The cost of living keeps going up, and we’re just asking for a wage that allows us to live.”

As the workers continue their protest, they hope that their message will reach district administrators and spur progress at the bargaining table.

Courtesy WaterFront Center

The students learned firsthand about the variety of life in the Long Island Sound.

Will Sheeline/Herald

Members of the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Civil Service Employees Association Unit held a protest outside the high school calling for community support in their negotiations for a fair living wage.

District graduation rate reaches 100 percent

teachers and technology coaches. This centralized model will ensure that all staff members are working toward the same goal under a unified leadership.

“The principal will now be the clear leader, with a team working directly under them, all focused on student achievement,” Ianni added. “By simplifying the chain of command, we ensure that decisions are made quickly and effectively, benefiting both teachers and students.”

A notable change in the leadership structure is the introduction of curriculum associates at the elementary and secondary levels. These newly created roles will focus exclusively on curriculum development and instruction, a shift from the previous model, in which a single supervisor might oversee grades K-12 in a subject area. According to Ianni, this change will allow for more specialized attention at each level.

“One of the key benefits of this structure is the focus it provides,” he explained. “Instead of having one curriculum person responsible for everything from kindergarten through 12th grade, we now have dedicated associates for the elementary and secondary levels. This means that when it comes to things like high school Regents exams or elementary literacy programs, each associate can focus on the unique needs of that age group.”

School board President Laurie Kowalsky echoed Ianni’s sentiments about the need for more targeted curriculum support.

“We’ve always had incredibly bright students, but we felt their test scores didn’t fully reflect their potential,” Kowalsky said. “By dedicating curriculum associates to specific levels, we can better address the learning needs of students at every stage of their education.”

The restructuring comes at a time when the district has already seen impressive results in student achievement. The graduation rate has risen from around 88 percent three years ago to 100 percent for the most recent senior class.

“We’re in a great place,” Ianni said, pointing to statistics such as the graduation rate and the number of students scoring 3 or higher on AP exams. “Our teachers are doing an amazing job, and this new structure is designed to give them the support they need to continue that success.”

Kowalsky agreed, adding that the board’s role was to support the administration’s efforts to improve student performance.

“We don’t run the schools directly — that’s the superintendent’s job — but we ensure that the district is operating in a way that benefits the students,” she said. “This new structure was created by Dr. Ianni, and when he presented it to the board, we felt it was a great idea.”

While the restructuring will primarily affect how administrators and teachers collaborate, district officials hope that students, and parents, will see the results in the classroom.

“Parents might not notice a dramatic change in dayto-day operations, but what they will see is improved instruction,” Kowalsky said. “Whether it’s more focused reading programs in the elementary schools or better preparation for Regents exams in the high school, the goal is for every student to benefit from a more tailored approach to learning.”

Ianni added that the new leadership structure is designed to give teachers more direct support, allowing them to focus on what matters most — student achievement.

“The teachers are the ones making a difference in the classroom,” he said. “Our job is to give them the resources and support they need to succeed.”

With the new structure in place, Ianni said the district remains focused on its core mission: giving students a high-quality education. “At the end of the day, it’s all about the students,” he said. “We’ve made these changes to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

The district plans to monitor the effects of the new structure closely over the coming school year and adjust it as needed.

Will Sheeline/Herald

Oyster Bay-East Norwich Superintendent Francesco Ianni outlined the new district leadership structure at the Sept. 17 Board of Education meeting.

Trump is welcomed to L.I. by a sea of red

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ & KELSIE RADZISKI of the Herald

Former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for president, vowed to the crowd at his rally on Sept. 18 at the Nassau Coliseum that he would win the vote in the state of New York in November’s election.

“It hasn’t been done in a long time,” Trump, referring to a decades-long losing streak of Republican presidential candidates in the state, “but we are going to win New York.”

Trump spoke for nearly 90 minutes at his first rally on Long Island since 2017, cheered by a sea of supporters wearing Make America Great Again hats and T-shirts and waving MAGA flags, thousands of them gathered outside the packed arena, watching on television monitors.

He denounced his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, and her policies, which he said would make New York “a Third World nation” if she were to win.

Trump highlighted Long Island issues and events, paying tribute to New York City Police Officer Jonathan Diller, of Massapequa, who was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Queens in March. The former president noted the 2016 slaying of Long Island teenagers Nisa Mickens and Kayla Cuevas, and the influx of MS-13 gang members.

“Our country’s going down,” he said. “If you look at what’s happening with the Venezuelans taking over … They’ve taken over your buildings and your land. You got to do something about it.

“That wouldn’t happen with Bruce Blakeman, I can tell you that right now,” Trump added, referring to the Republican Nassau county executive, which sparked chats of “Bruce!” from the

crowd.

This was Trump’s first rally since a second assassination attempt was reported at his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15. He credited the U.S. Secret Service for stopping the attempt.

He vowed to rebuild the subways, highways and bridges in New York and across the country. He promised to reinstate the income tax deduction for state and local taxes, which his administration backed legislation to cap during his presidency. He also announced that he would make the World Trade Center site, in Lower Manhattan, a national monument maintained by the federal government — a pronouncement that was met with an enthusiastic ovation.

“That hallowed ground and the memory of those who perished there will be preserved for all time,” he said, just a week after the 23rd anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

Trump also addressed global affairs. “I will settle the war in Ukraine,” he said. “I got along very well with Putin,” he said, referring to Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, “and I will end the chaos in the Middle East. A vote for Kamala Harris is a vote to obliterate Israel.”

Hours before the rally, County Legislator Carrié Solages, a Democrat, condemned statements made by Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio, about Haitian migrants eating residents’ pets in Springfield, Ohio, at a counterprotest with Haitians from Long Island outside the Coliseum entrance.

County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs held a protest with elected officials hours before Solages’.

Before Trump took to the stage, others expressed their support for his campaign, including Republican U.S. Representatives Anthony D’Esposito and Nick LaLota, who represent the 4th and 2nd

congressional districts, respectively. The pair are being challenged by former Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen and John Avalon in closely watched contests in November that could determine the balance of power in the House of Representatives.

In an impassioned speech, D’Esposito denounced Harris, described the Democratic Party as “dangerous” and emphasized that he “stand(s) for what Donald Trump believes in.”

“I stand for a secure border, I stand for backing law enforcement, I stand for growing our economy, I stand for putting America first,” D’Esposito said.

The Republican nominee in the 3rd Congressional District, Mike LiPetri, who hopes to flip Rep. Tom Suozzi’s seat, said he was proud to endorse Trump and his goals for his presidency.

“This is our time to restore common sense, to create safe, secure and affordable communities …,” LiPetri said, “making sure we have secure borders, a safe America, making sure we have peace across the world, making sure we’re standing with the Jewish community, and making sure we stand with Israel.”

Blakeman spoke of his priority to keep the county safe, after Nassau was recently named the safest county in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

“Nassau County protects the integrity and safety of women’s sports, and Nassau County unmasked the criminals, antisemites and hate mongers,” he said.

Blakeman called for Trump’s election in November so the country could “get back to common sense.”

“Let’s save our country, and let it start right here,” he said. “Let it start on Long Island, and go throughout the whole state of New York and the state of New Jersey and roll across America.”

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Former President Donald Trump held a rally at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale on Sept. 18, and vowed to win the state of New York in the November election.

Former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani was among those who enthusiastically supported the former president.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman spoke about his priority to keep the county safe.

Rally reflects Nassau’s deep political divide

By ROKSANA AMID

ramid@liherald.com

The Nassau Coliseum parking lot was filled with vehicles displaying flags, banners and homemade posters before former President Donald Trump’s campaign rally last week. Attendees, eager to show their allegiance, dressed in MAGA hats, shirts and red, white and blue outfits, while chants of “Trump, Trump, Trump!” erupted sporadically.

For his supporters, Trump remains the best candidate to fix the nation’s economic problems and take a stand against traditional politicians. Tommy Mundy, a Trump impersonator from Long Beach, praised the former president’s record.

“He’s a great man,” Mundy said. “He’s been right on everything all along.”

Mundy also dismissed concerns about Trump’s divisive stance on social issues, including abortion.

“Politicians are wicked and evil, and he’s not a politician,” Mundy said. “I’m not too concerned about the abortion issue — let God take care of that. We’re going to do great things, and the economy’s going to get turned around.”

Edward Sass, of North Babylon, also voiced his dissatisfaction with career politicians, a common theme among the attendees. Sass said he sees Trump as a non-politician who speaks plainly and delivers results.

“You get a lot of these politicians saying, ‘We’re going to do this; we’re going to do that.’ They should have done it already,” Sass said. “Three and a half

years, and they haven’t done anything.”

Sass criticized what he described as Vice President Kamala Harris’s vague promises, as well as the growing population on Long Island.

“We’re Long Island, we’re an island, we’ve got too many people in a boat,” he said, suggesting that the region’s infra-

structure is being overwhelmed by unchecked development and population growth.

Outside the Coliseum, anti-Trump protests reflected the sharp divisions among voters. Protesters gathered just beyond the gates, holding signs and chanting, “We’re not going back,” sum-

ming up their opposition to the former president.

Ann Leahy, from Wantagh, was among them. “He’s a crook, and he’s a liar, and he’s a rapist,” she said of Trump. “He’s cruel and he’s just a horrible person. He should never get near the White House again.”

Leahy expressed disbelief at the continuing support for Trump. “He was there for four years, and he was a horror then,” she said. “He has no policies. He just repeats the same stuff over and over again, and people are falling for it. I don’t understand why people would even dream about voting for this lunatic.”

Another one of the protesters was Magalie Theodore, a Haitian immigrant from Elmont, who expressed deep frustration with Trump’s disproven claims that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were stealing and eating residents’ pets.

“We are mad at Trump for the lies he has made about us,” Theodore said. “We don’t eat pets. We protect pets. As a citizen from Haiti, our country is a protector. We are the first Black republic. We don’t support bullies, and that’s what he’s been doing to immigrants.”

Theodore also criticized Trump’s approach to campaigning, accusing him of attacking ethnic groups to distract from his legal troubles. She also expressed disappointment in local leaders like Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for supporting Trump.

“I thought he was going to look out for all people, but apparently, he’s not,” Theodore said of Blakeman. “He’s supporting the biggest bully in America.”

Roksana Amid/Herald photos

Magalie Theodore and Magda Guillaune defiantly made clear their oppostion to former President Trump at last week’s rally. “We don’t support bullies,” Theodore said.

Edward Sass, of North Babylon, was eager to show his support for Donald Trump.

O.B. High School celebrates homecoming

Oyster Bay High School held a spirited homecoming pep rally on Sept. 20 in the school gym, featuring lively performances and friendly competition. The event kicked off with a powerful rendition of the national anthem by the OBHS chamber singers, energizing the crowd.

Student Council President Henry Briggs and Vice President Alexa Laurencon served as enthusiastic emcees, guiding attendees through the afternoon’s highlights. The varsity cheer squad ignited excitement with an impressive performance.

A highlight of the rally was the annual lip sync contest, themed “seasons.” Freshmen opened with a “girl power” spring performance, followed by sophomores with a Halloween twist, juniors celebrating summer, and seniors wrapping up with a winter wonderland act. The seniors claimed victory in this friendly competition.

The event also honored junior varsity and varsity athletes, culminating in the introduction of this year’s homecoming court.

Photos courtesy Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District

The presentation of varsity sports teams concluded with the varsity football team.

Student Council President Henry Briggs, right, and Vice President Alexa Laurencon served as the enthusiastic emcees.

The senior class, whose lip sync routine theme was “Winter”, won the class contest.

The varsity cheer squad kicked things off with a high energy routine.

The event concluded with the introduction of this year’s homecoming court, featuring Daniel Hernandez, left, Connor Walsh, Rose Lindstrom, Gwenyth Davey, Nicole Walsh.

L.V. music and media students recognized

Four Locust Valley High School students were recognized by state and Long Island organizations for their achievements in music, media and overall academic excellence.

The Long Island Arts Alliance named seniors Abigail Maselli and Sara Nearenberg Long Island Scholar-Artists for the media arts and theater categories, respectively. Maselli is a consistent fixture in the Locust Valley High School Film Festival and was invited to the Long Island International Film Festival in 2024. Nearenberg consistently takes the stage for the Locust Valley High School Jesters’ drama productions and performed at Radio City Music Hall in December 2023.

Juniors Grace Araoz and Abigail Vuong were recently invited to be participants for the 2024 New York State School Music Association’s AllState Performing Ensemble in Rochester from Dec. 5-8. Araoz (chorus) and Vuong (symphonic band) were among the thousands of students throughout the state who auditioned for this honor last spring.

“It is incredibly rewarding to see our students receive prestigious accolades such as these,” Coordinator of Instructional Technology and Fine and Applied Arts AnnMarie Buonaspina said. “These achievements reflect their hard work, talent and the strong support from our

teachers and community.”

Locust Valley Central School District was honored as one of the Best Communities for Music Education from the National Association for Music Merchants Foundation once again in 2024.

Conveniently situated on Forest Avenue, Sunrise of Glen Cove offers best-in-class senior care within an engaging atmosphere. In addition to highly personalized support, residents enjoy activities based on their passions, frequent social events, and fresh cuisine tailored to their tastes.

For a limited time, you can receive special pricing on select suites.

Photos courtesy Locust Valley Central School District Locust Valley High School senior Abigail Maselli, left, was named a Long Island Scholar-Artist in the media arts category by the Long Island Arts Alliance.

Locust Valley High School senior Sara Nearenberg was named a Long Island Scholar-Artist for the theater category by the Long Island Arts Alliance.

Parker Jewish Institute hosts Indian Cultural Wing Plaque Dedication

More than 150 guests, including honorees and dignitaries, attended Parker Jewish Institute’s Indian Cultural Wing Plaque Dedication on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Parker’s auditorium. The dedication was held in honor of Saroj Shah, M.D., and I.C. Shah, M.D., longtime supporters of Parker and co-founders of Parker’s Indian Cultural Unit.

Parker’s pioneering Indian Cultural Unit is the first of its kind in the region. The Indian Cultural Unit accommodates the rehabilitation, medical care and cultural needs of older adults, in New York’s growing Indian population, helping them achieve the best level of health possible.

“We are so tremendously grateful to Dr. Saroj Shah and Dr. I.C. Shah, co-founders of Parker’s Indian Cultural Unit. Their support and vision enhances Parker’s long-established mission to provide, with compassion and dedication, superior quality health care and rehabilitation,” said Michael N. Rosenblut, Parker Jewish Institute’s President and CEO.

Queens-LongIslandRenalInstituteParkerJewishInstitutehostedtheIndianCulturalWingPlaqueDedication. ShownhereareI.C.Shah,M.D.;SarojShah,M.D.;RobertS.Sterling,ChairmanoftheBoardTrusteesatParker JewishInstitute;FaithSterling;andMichaelN.Rosenblut,ParkerJewishPresidentandCEO.locatedattheParker Jewish Institute

About The Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation

The Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation is headquartered in New Hyde Park, New York. The facility is

a leading provider of Short-Term Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care. At the forefront of innovation in patient-centered health care and technology, the Institute is a leader in teaching and geriatric research.

Parker Jewish Institute • (718) 289-2212 • lscacco@parkerinstitute.org

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

HEALTH MEMO

Parker Jewish Institute features its own medical team, and is nationally renowned as a skilled nursing facility, as well as a provider of community-based health care, encompassing Home Health Care, Medical House Calls, Palliative Care and Hospice. Parker Jewish Institute is also home to Queens-Long Island Renal Institute (QLIRI) - providing patients with safe, comfortable Hemodialysis treatments in a relaxed setting – as well as PRINE Health – a Vascular Center offering advanced vascular services. The Center and QLIRI further Parker’s ability to expand access to essential health-care services to adults in the greater New York metropolitan area. For more information, please visit parkerinstitute.org or call 877-727-5373.

Queens-Long Island Renal Institute Offers Home Hemodialysis; Certified Home Health Care available through Parker Jewish Institute

Queens-Long Island Renal Institute (QLIRI), located at The Parker Jewish Institute, now offers a state-of-the-art Home Hemodialysis Program. Those patients who also require Certified Home Health Care can access it conveniently through QLIRI’s affiliate, Parker Jewish Institute.

QLIRI’s Home Hemodialysis Program allows patients to transition from an in-center setting to receiving hemodialysis from the comfort of their home, using the Tablo Hemodialysis System. Enrolled patients are first trained by a registered nurse. The nurse provides step-by-step guidance four days a week over the course of four weeks, or longer if necessary. Through training, patients learn to use the system before transitioning to home hemodialysis.

If needed, patients of Parker’s Certified Home Health Care Agency receive individualized nursing, medical, and

rehabilitation services, so they can maintain maximum independence in the comfort of their homes. Home-care services can include skilled-nursing care; physical, occupational and speech therapy; home-health aides; medical social services; medical supplies; and 24-hour telephone availability. Call with questions! 718-289-2600. To learn more about QLIRI’s Home Hemodialysis Program, visit qliri.org. For more on Parker’s Certified Home Health Care, visit parkerinstitute.org.

Dialysis Patients

The Queens-Long Island Renal Institute, Inc., offers the finest quality of care, state-of-the-art technology and uncompromised dignity, in a bright, ultra-modern setting.

QLIRI provides:

• In-Center Chronic Hemodialysis

• Home Dialysis

• Ex perienced Nephrologists and Dialysis Registered Nurses

• Comfortable, State-of-the-Art, Private Treatment Stations

• Personal TV/DVD and Free Wireless Access

• Homelike Reception Area

• Social Work Services

• Nutrition Counseling

• Individual and Family Health Education

• St retcher Capability

• Va let Parking and Medical Transportation Available

• Quality Start

Mets’ Alvarez gives kids tips to remember

By ANTHONY DiCOCCO

Special to the Herald

The energy was palpable as soon as the children began their infield and hitting drills, because in just moments, they would get the chance to learn from one of baseball’s rising stars.

Despite being in the thick of an intense playoff race, New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez volunteered 90 minutes of his time to coach dozens of lucky kids, ranging from kindergarten to sixth grade, at a free baseball clinic at the Lou Anthony Sports Complex in Massapequa on Sept. 5.

“This is awesome,” Rich Lopos, president of the Nassau County Police Activity League said. “This was something (Alvarez) called us about. He said, ‘I just want to come down and hang out with the kids for a little while,’ and these kids are loving it.”

Over the course of the clinic, kids decked out in Mets apparel rotated between stations that focused on the fundamentals of baseball, such as throwing, catching popups, running and infield work, before finally getting some hitting tips from Alvarez himself during tee drills. Following the clinic and a group photo, participants had the opportunity to pose for individual pictures with Alvarez and get his autograph.

As a young pro player who’s still learning what it takes to be a major leaguer, Alvarez said that the kids on the field were also teaching him valuable lessons.

“This definitely helps me relax,” he said. “I’m happier. I can see the kids smile, I see the kids’ emotion and I can see how hard they work here. It gives me a little more energy.”

The event was part of a stacked lineup of athlete-run clinics that has been made possible through a partnership between PAL and Pioneer Sports Long Island. Over the past year, Pioneer Sports, now its 14th year, has held clinics that featured former Rangers goalie Mike Richter, Jets tight end Jeremy Ruckert, Mets third baseman Brett Baty and closer Edwin Diaz, and Yankees starting pitchers Nestor Cortes and Clarke Schmidt.

Tom Falcone, a co-founder of Pioneer Sports, helps facilitate all of the clinics.

“This was really cool,” Brooklyn native Aiden Rodriguez, 11, said after the clinic run by the player he described as his idol. “I go to Mets games and meet a lot of players, and Alvarez is one of my favorite catchers in MLB. He made me want to be a catcher.”

Aiden’s brother, Austin, 8, said some

of the key lessons Alvarez taught were to keep your eye on the ball and the ball on the barrel of your bat. And he taught the kids about the mental side of the game, as well. Throughout the clinic, he stressed the importance of putting all their mental energy into baseball and to always have fun while doing it.

“These kids are having a lifetime experience, and for me it’s a lifetime experience, too,” Falcone said. “Just to be able to have these guys come out here to the facility and give back to the community, we’re honored to do this.”

Anthony DiCocco is a reporter for the SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.

Courtesy Anthony DiCocco

Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez gave hitting pointers to the kids who attended the free baseball clinic at the Lou Anthony Sports Complex in Massapequa.

STEPPING OUT

From the ‘burbs to the

big stage

Rockville Centre native explores roots in new musical

By Iris Wiener

Shaun Taylor-Corbett has enjoyed a unique journey from his upbringing in Rockville Centre to working in New York theater. After becoming a household face with a stint on the hit children’s TV show “Hi-5,” he went on to star in the acclaimed Off-Broadway musical “Altar Boyz” and eventually was part of the original cast of Lin Manuel Miranda’s “In the Heights.” Working on that Tony-Award winning musical showed him the importance of exploring community through musical theater; it set the stage for his most personal project to date: ”Distant Thunder,” which runs Sept. 25 through Oct. 27 at A.R.T./New York Theatres. Taylor-Corbett not only co-wrote the book and lyrics for the new Off-Broadway musical, he also co-produced and stars in the production, which he credits with helping him learn about his own background. His mother, acclaimed dancer-choreographer and director Lynne Taylor-Corbett, directed and co-wrote. At age 15, Taylor-Corbett decided he wanted to know more about his family’s background. “It was important to me to know where we came from,” he says.

His roots are Black, Scandinavian, Blackfeet Indigenous, and Irish. Realizing he wanted to know more about his Indigenous side, Taylor-Corbett’s mother proceeded to bring her son to Browning, Mont. There he met Darrell Robes Kipp, an educator and community leader responsible for saving the Blackfeet language.

“He really instilled in me the importance of language for a culture,” says Taylor-Corbett. “It was very impactful for me and it made me want to create a story about my experience being mixed race.”

“Distant Thunder”evolved into a story about a young person who returns to his roots after many years of being away. It goes on to explore the various ways in which he experiences community.

Taylor-Corbett’s first memory as a performer was recording himself singing to Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl.” He moved to Rockville Centre when he was 8-years-old, where he attended South Side Middle School and South Side High School. It was at South Side Middle School that he took on one of his first theatrical roles: Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof.” Looking back he appreciates having had a unique childhood growing up with his father [Columbia Records music executive Michael Corbett] and his mother.

Much of ‘Distant Thunder’ was inspired by Taylor-Corbett’s experience growing up mixed race. “I didn’t quite know where I fit in, so I was open and friendly with everybody,” he says. “There were some instances where I felt like an outsider and got made fun of, but I think what I got from being mixed and hanging out with people from different cultural identities is that I fell in love with learning about cultures.”

Taylor-Corbett travels frequently and studies international relations.“As one aspect of my identity — being Indigenous — got stronger, I realized I could take all of what I learned and try to do something in the U.S. I wanted to help the people that gave me so much.”

Taylor-Corbett still spends time in Rockville Centre with his mother in his childhood home. One of his favorite aspects of working on “Distant Thunder” has been collaborating with mom.

“I value having time with her and going through this adventure,” he says. “We’ve grown so much together as friends because of this. There’s a deeper meaning, and drive we have together because I was a kid when we started [this journey]. We don’t have that much time with our parents, so holding onto every moment doing this with her is a joy.”

He also appreciates the wealth of experience that Lynne brings to the project; the multi-talented ‘Broadway legend’ is known for her choreography of Broadway’s “Swing!” and the film “Footloose,” as well her direction and writing for “Cougar the Musical,” among other projects.

“I’m learning so much from her,” he says. “She passed on that legacy to me. I see myself growing in confidence because of her.”

Taylor-Corbett is proud that “Distant Thunder” honors the Blackfeet community that he holds close to his heart. He had never seen an Indigenous Broadway or Off-Broadway musical, and imagined how incredible it would be to have a large cast representing the Blackfeet and Indigenous communities performing an Indigenous story through powwow and pop music. Adding it to the American theater canon would break through barriers.

“We wanted to have the show be a portal into another world, into the magic that is Indian country,” he says, as he looks forward to opening night on Oct. 3. “I want people to leave the show uplifted and joyful about the future. I’m hoping that everyone feels represented, that people feel proud of what we’ve done, and that it inspires people who might be on a similar journey as they write their own stories.”

Tickets for ‘Distant Thunder’ can be purchased online at amasmusical.org or by calling (212) 563-2565.

Jessie’s Girl

Take out that neon yet again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those crazy days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage, The band of NYC’s top rock/pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as ‘80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Jessie’s Girl has mastered overthe-top renditions of the some of world’s most unforgettable songs, all while dressed up as the iconic characters of that decade. This is theater meets live music, covered in ‘80s glitz. Some would say there’s no decade like the ‘80. So throw on your best neon, use extra hair spray on that hair and head to Back To The Eighties — because it’s time to party like it’s 1989.

Saturday, Sept. 28, 8 p.m. $45, $37.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Celebrity Autobiography

The Drama Desk Award-winning “Celebrity Autobiography” returns to Tilles Center with an entirely new show. Starring Richard Kind, pictured above (fresh off his comic turn in that Hulu sensation “Only Murders in the Building”), Jackie Hoffman, Craig Bierko, Lillias White, Mario Cantone, and show creators Eugene Pack and Dayle Reyfel, an ever-changing selection of tellalls and memoirs are performed verbatim. Celebrity tell-alls are perfectly entertaining on their own, as exclusive windows into the lives of famous personalities. But this smash-hit comedic masterpiece takes it a step further — as as outrageously true memoirs are acted out live on stage by some of the funniest people around.

Saturday, Sept. 28, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Photo courtesy Michael Lee Stever

The cast rehearses “Distant Thunder” ahead of previews beginning Sept. 25.

Photo courtesy Caroline Grogan Shaun Taylor-Corbett with his co-writer, director and mother, Lynne Taylor Corbett.

THE Your Neighborhood

Everclear

Everclear, one of the leading alternative rock bands to emerge from the ‘90s, led by vocalistguitarist-founder Art Alexakis, is back on the road, appearing on the Paramount stage, Sunday, oct. 6, 7 p.m. The band is joined by special guests Marcy Playground and Jimmie’s Chicken Shack. The setlist for this tour includes all the hits from throughout Everclear’s extraordinary three decades-long catalog, spotlighting tracks off their album “Songs From An American Movie Vol. One,” which they’ll release on vinyl later this year for the first time via Intervention Records.

Since forming in 1992, Everclear has enjoyed a lengthy career by any measure, spanning 11 studio releases, including four that have been certified Gold or Platinum, selling over 6 million records, and achieving 12 Top 40 Hit Singles on Mainstream Rock, Alternative, and Adult Top 40 radio, including “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine,” “I Will Buy You A New Life,” “Wonderful” and “Everything To Everyone,” as well as numerous videos, concerts, and various other accolades, including a 1998 Grammy nomination. The band’s 1993 debut album “World Of Noise,” released on the Portland independent label Tim/Kerr Records, paired with their significant efforts to break into college radio and the buzz they’d created within the Portland music scene, attracted the attention of major labels, including Capitol Records, which signed the group soon after. Beginning with their major-label debut, 1995’s platinum-selling album “Sparkle and Fade,” and its massive chart-topping hit “Santa Monica,” Everclear was soon a household name and catapulted into the masses. Alexakis was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2019; he’s since donated $1 from every ticket purchased from his performances to charities such as Sweet Relief Musicians Fund and National MS Society. In addition their numerous concerts over the band’s lengthy career, Alexakis created and runs the annual Summerland Tour, which features a package of popular ‘90s alt rock bands. $70.50, $50.50, $050, $25.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Oct. 9

Hempstead House tour

Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Wednesday, oct. 9, noon-1 p.m.

Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.

Game Time

Drop by Bayville Free Library, Wednesdays, 1-4 p.m., for casual table games. Bring your own games or use games offered by the library such as; cards, Canasta, Mah Jongg, Scrabble, chess, checkers, backgammon, and jigsaw puzzles. No registration required. 34 School St. For more information, visit BayvilleFreeLibrary.org or call (516) 628-2765.

Fascinating Fungi

Bring the kids to make some discoveries about mushrooms at Long Island Children’s Museum’s drop-in program, Sunday, Sept. 29, 1-3 p.m. Did you know that some mushrooms can glow in the dark? Learn about the 113 species of mushroom that are considered bioluminescent, due to a chemical reaction that attracts bugs to help spread mushroom spores. Stop by to learn about these amazing fungi and make a glowing mushroom craft to bring home. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

Concert time

Now & Then Trio performs at the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Library, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2 p.m. Vocalist Esther Beckman and her bandmates perform classics, swing, country, Latin and soft pop. 89 E. Main St., Oyster Bay. Visit oysterbaylibrary.org for more information.

Spooky Fest is back

A Halloween experience not to be missed, Spooky Fest is an outdoor adventure perfect for families, whether you want to be scared — or prefer seasonal fun of the non-scary kind. Join in the fun at the Center for Science, Teaching and Learning, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout October. Along the way in the updated and beautifully lit up Enchanted Walk you will see dinosaurs, aliens and friendly witches, costumed characters and more, including the Mystical Garden. Get your fortune told, make a craft and dance with the Halloween DJ, along with face painting and the Amazing Glow tent.

For those who want a scare, venture into the Haunted Woods, where zombies and dinosaurs hang out. Admission starts at $22. 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre. Visit CSTL.org for call (516) 7640045 for more information.

Guided By The Cosmos

Come have a magical afternoon with Jennifer Alexander, astrometaphysician, tarot & oracle card reader, quantum healing hypnotherapist, and intuitive guide for eclipse season on Sunday, at Hive Market, Sept. 29, 4–6 p.m. Share what you’re experiencing, ask questions, or simply listen, receive, and be present within this safe, non-judgmental space to be yourself. Book ahead to secure your space. Walk-ins welcome! Hive Market and Gallery, 100102 Audrey Ave. Oyster Bay. Tickets cost $40. To purchase tickets or to find out more visit www.hivemarketob.com or contact (516) 588-9400.

Guns & Hoses

Come cheer on our GCPD vs. GCFD in the annual Guns & Hoses softball game, Friday, Sept. 27, 7 p.m., at John Maccarone Memorial Stadium in Glen Cove. Show your support for our local heroes at the free family event. Don’t miss out! Morris Ave., Glen Cove.

Having an event?

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program returns for a new season, Saturday, Sept. 21, 9, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and their adult partners connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for more information and to register or call (516) 484-9337.

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media.

It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

On stage

Adelphi University’s Theatre Department present two one-act plays from icons of the American Little Theater movement, of the early 20th century, now through Sunday, Sept. 29. See “Suppressed Desires” by Susan Glaspell and “George Cram Cook and Seaweed” by Alice Gerstenberg, Sept. 26-27, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 28, 2 and 7:30 p.m. (livestream available); Sept. 29, 2 p.m. Gerstenberg’s Seaweed explores the future prospects and dating escapades of 20somethings in the 1920s. It’s “Sex and the City” but only four years after women received the right to vote. Suppressed Desires brings the audience into a 1914 marriage where a husband, wife, and her sister interrogate the psychological meaning of every conscious and unconscious utterance. All shows take place in Adelphi’s Performing Art Center’s Black Box Theatre. $25, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees. 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

“Swalloween” Takeout

The end of September marks my favorite takeout holiday, “Swalloween,” when takeout foods don their Halloween costumes. This month, I enjoyed Swalloween delicacies at a new restaurant, a fair, and three cafés featuring fall menus. I tasted pumpkins and apples disguised as smoothies, scallion pancakes dressed as pizza, spaghetti squash masquerading on a pasta-style plate, and more. Check out these fun foods that taste like autumn:

SoBol Oyster Bay

(14 E. Main St., Oyster Bay)

For a limited time, pumpkins are transformed into Pumpkin Pie Smoothies. These creamy blends of pumpkin, banana, cookie butter, oat milk, and pumpkin spice highlight the pumpkin flavor while allowing the other ingredients to shine. The result is a refreshing, well-balanced sip of fall. Apples also take on the guise of apple pie smoothies and are equally delicious.

Mr. KEKE Ramen (2 Glen St., Glen Cove)

At this new Asian restaurant, the triangle-shaped Taiwanese scallion pancakes made me think I was enjoying little slices of pizza. With layers of garlic, salt, and vegetable oil atop the thin, crispy pancakes, the dish is a great Swalloween costume. The restaurant also features hot pots, allowing you to select a broth and cook a bowl of ingredients at your table. I preferred the pot stickers, dim sum, ramen soups, salads, and appetizers on the menu. If you’ve never tried ingredients like Japanese

eel rice, lotus roots, or green-lipped New Zealand mussels, this could be an exciting culinary adventure.

Maldon & Mignonette

(243 Glen Cove Ave., Sea Cliff)

Chef Occhipinti’s fall menu showcases dishes dressed in Swalloween costumes. The Spaghetti Squash Arrabbiata was so well-prepared that I forgot it wasn’t pasta. Elegant strands of squash mingled with a sauce of sausage, bacon, and thyme, creating a delightful flavor combination. Another standout dish is the Crescent Duck, served with a side of apple slaw made of paper-thin apple slices and fresh arugula, all tossed in a light sauce—a memorable Swalloween performance.

Carvel (181 Forest Ave., Glen Cove; 2 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay)

As a child, whenever I scraped my knee or had any kind of day, my mother would take me to Carvel. So, it warms my heart to share that the monthly special is pumpkin cheesecake. Soft ice cream that tastes like pumpkins swirled with cheesecake creates the perfect Swalloween experience.

Creamy Dreamy Fudge & Tasty Treats (creamydreamyfudge@gmail.com)

At the Oyster Bay Street Fair, I enjoyed homemade apple pie fudge— apples dressed as fudge for Swalloween. You can find this fudge at the Oyster Festival, or call Larry Junda at 516-5785228 for more information.

See you next month!

ON THE ROAD WITH A TAKEOUT QUEEN NEWS

BRIEF

Town and county to host Oct. 7th ceremony

Town of Oyster Bay and Nassau County residents are invited to stand in solidarity with Israel while remembering the 1,200 people killed in the Hamas terrorist attacks, including over 40 Americans, and hundreds kidnapped on October 7, 2023. Together with religious leaders, attendees will pray for the safe return of over 100 hostages still held in captivity (including 7 Americans), reaffirm theirr support for the State of Israel, and denounce the heinous acts of terror committed against men, women, and children.

“We’re proud to stand united in solidarity with Israel and will host this remembrance ceremony in memory of the October 7th terror victims while remembering the lives lost and those still held captive,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman stated. “This ceremony offers residents a collective space for

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of Beverage Food Company LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on July 15 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 192 Bayville Ave. Bayville NY 11709. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 148578

Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 148893

mourning, ensuring that the memory of those lost is preserved and the impact of their loss is acknowledged by the wider community.”

“This remembrance ceremony fosters unity and resilience, allowing people to come together in solidarity against acts of terror, while promoting healing and a shared commitment to peace and security in the face of tragedy,” added Town Supervisor Joesphe In these troubled times, it is critical to remember that what divides us, pales in comparison to that what unites us.”

This October 7th Remembrance Ceremony will take place on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 6pm at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, New York. State, Town and County officials will be joined by local religious leaders, families, community leaders and thousands of residents.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU, CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. ROBERT M. WALLACH A/K/A ROBERT

WALLACH A/K/A BOBBY

WALLACH A/K/A BOB

WALLACH A/K/A ROBERT

MATTHEW WALLACH, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Order to Amend the Caption duly entered on February 2, 2017 and Order Pursuant to CPLR 2004 Extending the Time to Set Sale and TO Ratify Sale NUNC Pro TUNC and for the Appointment of a Successor Referee to Conduct the Sale, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 16, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 219 Feeks Lane, Mill Neck, NY 11765. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Mill Neck, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 29, Block J and Lot 372. Approximate amount of judgment is $4,966,248.56 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #007508/2014. Cash will not be accepted.

George Esernio, Esq., Referee

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I, INC.,TRUST 2004-HE6, Plaintiff, vs. NICHOLAS BERTOLINO A/K/A NICHOLAS J. BERTOLINO, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 28, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 22, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 10 Pershing Avenue, Locust Valley, NY 11560. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Locust Valley, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 29, Block R02 a/k/a R-2 and Lot 1140. Approximate amount of judgment is $698,848.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #007432/2016. Jeffrey Fox, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149012

LEGAL NOTICE

Invitation to Bidders BOARD OF EDUCATION Oyster Bay East Norwich Central School District PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for single prime contract sealed bids for: REBID - H&V Main Central Fan Replacement at: Jamse H. Vernon School.

Bids will be received by the School District, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 10AM, in the Administration Building located at: 1 McCouns Lane, Oyster Bay, New York, 11771, and at said time and place publicly opened and read aloud. The Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers, P.C., 244 East Main Street, Patchogue New York, (631-475-0349); however the Contract Documents may only be obtained through the Office of REV Plans, 28 Church StreetSuite 7, Warwick, New York 10990 (845-651-3845) beginning on Friday, September 27, 2024. Complete digital sets of Contract Documents shall be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a nonrefundable fee of OneHundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: bbs.biddyhq.com. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained directly from REV upon a deposit of One-Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to the DISTRICT, DISTRICT, OYSTER BAY EAST NORWICH CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT and may be uncertified. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above referenced websites. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit

for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract.

The Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or the proposals will be rejected within 45 days of the date of opening proposals. Bids shall be subject, however, to the discretionary right reserved by the School District to waive any informalities in, accept or reject any alternatives, reject any proposals and to advertise for new proposals, if in its opinion the best interest of the School District will thereby be promoted. Bidder may not withdraw its bid until forty-five (45) days after the bid opening, except in accordance with General Municipal Law Section 103(11).

Restrictions, if any, applicable to construction activities in the Owner’s facilities as a result of State, Federal, or Local orders, laws, regulations or rules, and the duration of any such restrictions, the Owner may modify the construction schedule, including the anticipated start date, set forth in the Contract/ Bid Documents. By submitting a bid, the Bidder consents to any such schedule modification and further acknowledges and agrees that there shall be no additional compensation for the schedule modification caused directly or indirectly by such restrictions. The Bidder further acknowledges and agrees that the sole remedy for any schedule modifications or delays caused directly or indirectly by such restrictions shall be an extension of time, to be determined in the sole discretion of the Owner.

Dated: September 20, 2024

By Order of:

The Board of Education Oyster Bay East Norwich Central School District 149105

C athi t urow

OPINIONS

After all the drama,

it’s a dead heat

It seems as if barely a week goes by in the presidential campaign without one more otherwise once-in-adecade, totally unexpected event occurring.

Almost relegated to the background in all this tumult are the multitude of criminal charges brought against Donald Trump, including 34 felony convictions in one case alone, which have only increased his favorability ratings to their highest level ever.

For starters, there was the Biden-Trump CNN debate fiasco in late June, in which President Biden virtually self-destructed in real time before a nationwide audience. At times incoherent and appearing hopelessly confused, Biden had no sooner left the debate stage than Democratic Party leaders, consultants and media types displayed their own levels of incoherence in expressing their shock and dismay over how poorly Biden had performed and their fear of his impending defeat in November, especially contrasted with Trump’s relatively effective performance. Biden insisted he was going for-

ward, and conducted a media tour to rescue his terminally wounded candidacy.

While all this was taking place, Trump barely escaped death in Butler, Pennsylvania, when an attempted assassin’s bullet missed his skull by an inch, clipping his right ear and resulting in the iconic photo of his bloody defiance. Then there was the Republican Convention in Milwaukee, which, except for an overly long acceptance speech by Trump, worked to perfection. Trump’s path to victory seemed clear.

TThen, out of nowhere on a Sunday afternoon, Biden announced that he would not run for re-election. Though he had won the overwhelming majority of delegates to the impending Democratic National Convention, he couldn’t withstand the coordinated move against him from all sides of the Democratic Party, from the actor George Clooney to party leaders Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries. Almost simultaneously with his withdrawal statement, Biden announced his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. Though her favorability numbers had been lower than Biden’s, she unexpectedly surged into a dead heat with Trump. This was followed by a

Bigotry

With precious weeks to go before the November election, I had hoped that we would be having a real debate about the issues that should dominate in a federal election year. I refer to such things as election integrity, a woman’s right to choose, the economy and other relevant subjects in such a crucial year. But instead, it seems that for some of the candidates, the only issue is race.

When Vice President Kamala Harris became the nominee of the Democratic Party, I understood that her mixed-race history would be a boon to some bigots who considered her selection a chance to vent against all people of color. And with every passing day, we hear about some politician openly venting about her color. The chief culprit has been former President Donald Trump, who seizes every opportunity he can to stoke the culture wars.

carefully choreographed Democratic Convention in Chicago, at which Harris appeared to make headway by repositioning herself as a moderate, not the progressive she had always been.

rump can’t just criticize current policies, and Harris can’t just say she’s not Joe Biden.

Seemingly caught off guard by Harris’s emergence, Trump made a number of unforced errors, including saying he hadn’t known until recently that Harris was black. He was clearly off his game. Polls showed Harris with a slight but growing edge. This was followed by their debate, in which Harris was acknowledged to be the victor.

Yet in another surprise development, the postdebate polls not only showed almost no real gain by Harris, but also found increased voter doubts about her on gut issues like immigration and the economy. It was now a horse race, and both sides were gearing up for the stretch run.

Then again came the unexpected: another assassination attempt against Trump, this time while he was playing the fifth hole of his Mar-a-Lago golf course. For days the media focused on this almost-tragedy. How did the Secret Service allow the would-be assassin to get so close to Trump so soon after the attempt in Butler in July? How much

did incendiary rhetoric contribute to this political violence?

This tumultuous, unprecedented 2024 campaign is now in its final six weeks, and is back where it started in earnest almost a year ago. Despite all that has happened along the way, the polls show the race is too close to call. Hopefully the candidates and voters will use the time between now and Nov. 5 to focus on the issues.

Real people are hurt by high prices for groceries. It’s difficult for young people to obtain a mortgage to buy a home. Crime is real, and repeat offenders are back on the streets. Illegal immigration is rampant, and attacks by criminal gangs are increasing.

Overseas, Israel is fighting for its survival. The Russia-Ukraine war rages unabated, while China continues to expand its military and threaten its neighbors, particularly Taiwan and the Philippines.

Trump must do more than criticize current policies, and detail what measures he would take. Harris must do more than just say that she’s not Joe Biden. And all of us must live up to the responsibilities and challenges of living in a democracy.

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

must not dominate this election

One of his first shots in the current hate debate was his questioning of Harris’s race. At one of his campaign rallies, he asked if she really was Black. Eventually, when Trump found that this diatribe wasn’t catching on with his voters, he moved on to other highly sensitive racial areas.

TKeep in mind that he has often played the race card. One of his most memorable racist comments concerned the 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. Despite his continuous denials, there were multiple press stories that quoted him as saying there were “very fine people, on both sides.”

Their most recent target was the Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. It’s a fact that various groups that cross the border often seek to settle in places that other immigrants have chosen as their home.

he governor of Ohio and the mayor of Springfield have denied vile claims.

In order to keep the racial flames burning, both Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance, have made immigration the focal point of their campaign. There is no doubt that the border issue has legitimacy, but the TrumpVance approach is to stoke the racial fires with claims that mental patients and convicts are invading the country. Neither man has come up with any proof that these claims are legitimate.

The Haitians in Springfield are in this country as part of a program that allows immigrants to seek asylum based on violence in their countries. That program was created by President Ronald Reagan, and has been honored by all subsequent presidents, with the exception of Trump. This same program allows in residents of Ukraine and Venezuela, whose countries are experiencing great turmoil. Trump and Vance continue to spread the lie that members of Springfield’s Haitian community are stealing people’s pets and eating them. Their claims have caused massive angst in that city, where schools and municipal activities have shut down. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, the mayor of Springfield and other city officials have vehemently denied that such activities have taken place, but the Trump-Vance meanness continues unabated. There is no doubt that Spring-

field is dealing with an influx of Haitians who are trying to find work there, but the false rumors continue.

Adding to the venom were remarks Vance made on the Sunday talk shows on Sept. 15. He was challenged for continuing to assert the false pet-eating claims. “If I have to create stories so that the American media actually pays attention to the suffering of the American people, then that’s what I’m going to do,” he told Dana Bash on CNN’s “State of the Union.”

The latest attempt to assassinate Trump should have resulted in his toning down the incendiary talk coming from him and his campaign team. But after a soft comment expressing his appreciation for the public’s support, he claimed that the Democrats were responsible for the assassination attempts “with their ugly rhetoric about me.” That kind of response can only bring about more toxic threats at a time when calm should be the byword.

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.

PETER KING

JERRY KREMER

Deadly Wild West in our backyard

One year ago, the Herald published the editorial below, about a spate of reckless driving on the Southern State Parkway. Unfortunately, in light of the devastating news that a number of Long Island teens have lost their lives in several recent crashes, we are once again somberly reminded that reckless drivers put at risk not only their own lives, but also the lives of others. We recommend that local municipalities and law enforcement agencies schedule town halls to discuss how best to stem the tide of reckless driving on Long Island — from speeding to texting, and everything in between, whether on a parkway or a local street. In the meantime, we reprint our editorial from the Sept. 28-Oct. 4, 2023, issue.

Drive a mere exit or two on any of Long Island’s main thoroughfares and you are sure to see at least one roadside shrine remembering the victim of a fatal car crash.

These memorials — already too commonplace — will only become more ubiquitous if nothing is done to stem the rising tide of dangerous drivers on these roads. In fact, just last week, sadly, Peninsula Boulevard was the site of two

LETTERS

The utilities thrive on environment-damaging fossil fuels

To the Editor:

As the country and the rest of the world have experienced another year of scorching heat waves, private, for-profit utility companies — which we rely on for our basic necessities, like heating, cooling and electricity — are keeping us reliant on climate-wrecking fossil fuels while reporting record profits. When they work well, utilities exist in the background of our lives: They power our homes, cool us down when it’s hot, and give us heat when it’s cold. But too often they are sources of aggravation: The power goes off when it’s dangerously hot or cold out, our bills skyrocket, and these for-profit companies threaten to shut off services when we’re unable to pay.

We know that climate change raises those stakes even higher, and utility companies themselves play a massive role in exacerbating the climate crisis: 80 percent of the electric utilities in the U.S. run on fossil fuels.

Shifting utilities to clean energy is integral to working toward a safer climate, but these companies would rather maintain the status quo and keep the public in the dark.

separate fatal accidents. On the same day.

We have all seen the tricked-out cars and motorcycles that zig and zag through traffic — exceeding the speed limit in spades — with no concern about repercussions from law enforcement or consequences for the lives of others.

That sickening feeling you get when your heart skips a beat, and you thank heaven to be alive, because yet another vehicle comes out of nowhere at 100 mph to cut you off, and then does the same thing to the next car? And the next? Too many of us Long Islanders know this feeling all too well.

Reckless (and noisy) drivers — threatening both public safety and community tranquility — are operating with impunity. And they know it.

Their cars are hard to miss, with their illegally modified mufflers that can be heard miles away at all hours of the day and night. Illegal license plate covers and fake temporary tags protect their callous disregard for law and order by making it impossible for anyone to identify them, including law enforcement tools like speed cameras. And their friends are now sometimes even setting up lawn chairs on the side of the high-

way to watch cars race in broad daylight — missing the irony that a crash victim’s memorial is often just over their shoulders.

More than 75 people lost their lives, and another 13,000 were injured, in nearly 37,000 traffic accidents in Nassau County last year. Those are unacceptable numbers.

It’s difficult to find law enforcement on these central thruways, especially on the Southern State Parkway — one of Nassau County’s deadliest roads — between the Cross Island Parkway and Heckscher State Park.

We need more, not less, patrolling of our roads. We need more, not less, enforcement of sensible laws already on the books. We need more, not less, coordination between state and local law enforcement. And we need more stringent laws and harsher penalties coming out of Albany so that we can make these reckless drivers as scared to continue these dangerous activities as we are to witness them.

We implore all jurisdictions to work together to rein in the scourge of irresponsible, dangerous and selfish drivers. Because even one more roadside shrine is one too many.

individuals

LISA KONRAD

OPINIONS

Seeking post-pandemic healing in the woods

Acold wind, as loud as a trumpet, whipped across the summit of Mount Marcy, New York’s highest peak in the Adirondacks, on Aug. 17. I could see only feet in front of me, because the mountain, at 5,344 feet above sea level, was enveloped by clouds. Then a light rain started to patter across the rocky slab at my feet.

I was in a dreamscape, surrounded by massive boulders and tall piles of rocks called cairns, intended to guide hikers through stormy conditions. Then, out of the fog, two 20-something hikers appeared like apparitions, wearing nothing more than shorts, T-shirts and sneakers, each carrying but one small water bottle.

The two moved across the steep, slippery rock like cats, seemingly unfazed by the increasingly concerning weather. One pulled out a short joint and inhaled it all at once. He and his hiking partner stood at Marcy’s highest point and joked that they were the highest men in New

York. Then they asked if we — my son, Andrew, my soon-to-be son-in-law, Matteo, and I — would like our photo taken at the summit. We did, and the fellow toking the joint obliged.

take in the spectacular view (on a clear day, it’s said you can see Mount Royal, in Montreal, 65 miles away, from Marcy’s summit), but my older self understood how privileged I was to be in this place.

To be consumed by the weather was an experience unto itself, one part eerie, one part mystical.

DThe pair were from Massachusetts, but mostly hiked in New Hampshire, they said. They had never climbed Mount Marcy before. I remarked that I had last made the ascent 45 years ago.

“What were you, 3?” the smoker asked.

“Actually, I was 12.”

“Whoa.”

I’m a nearly lifelong Long Islander accustomed to a virtually flat landscape, and the Adirondack High Peaks region has lived in my imagination since I first visited the area as a Boy Scout with Troop 79, in Suffolk County, during my middle school years. I could never reconcile in my mind the massiveness of the mountains, the sheer grandeur of them. Even as a child, I understood how special they were, and how fortunate I was to visit them.

espite the fog atop Mount Marcy, I understood how privileged I was to be there.

I had decided during the coronavirus pandemic that I wanted — I needed — to return to Mount Marcy, and I wrote about that desire in a Herald column in March 2021, “Reflections on a pandemic year.” I was the Heralds’ executive editor at the time, and like so many people then, I was exhausted, mentally as well as physically, having covered the pandemic for a year. My mind often wandered to the forests of my childhood, both on Long Island and in the Adirondacks and Catskills. I longed for the quiet and solitude of the woods.

I climbed Bear Mountain, in New York’s Hudson Highlands, with my wife, Katerina, in June. It was a distressingly hot day, but we made it. Then Andrew and Matteo proposed that we climb Marcy this summer, and I was all in. I didn’t hesitate. Now it’s on to Katahdin, in Maine, hopefully in one of the coming summers.

The experiences of climbing Bear Mountain and Mount Marcy were made more special and lasting in my memory because I shared them with family. Only my daughter, Alexandra, was missing, but I’m certain she will be trekking with us into the mountains in the near future.

Like so many, I was hyper-focused on my work during the pandemic. It was all we had. I still love my work — now as a full-time Hofstra University journalism professor. But to this day, more than a year after the official end of the “Covid19 emergency” in May 2023, my mind often drifts to the woods, to nature. It is there that we find the psychic and spiritual healing that so many of us still so desperately need.

On the day Andrew, Matteo and I made our ascent, the weather was less than ideal. A younger version of me might have been disappointed not to

LETTERS

Does the proposed Equal Rights Amendment go too far?

To the Editor:

After reading Sasha Ahuja’s letter (“Curran’s wrong about the ‘war on women,’” Sept. 5-11), in support of the proposed Equal Rights Amendment, which will be on New York ballots in November, I decided to ask Google to tell me exactly what the proposed constitutional amendment says. This is what I learned:

“No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws of this state or any subdivision thereof. No person shall, because of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, creed, or religion, or sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare and autonomy, be subjected to any discrimination in their civil rights by any other person or by any firm, corporation, or institution, or by the state or any agency or subdivision of the state pursuant to law.”

I’m wondering if the amendment

might go too far or be too broad in its scope. Adding anything to the Constitution is a very big deal, since changing our minds after the fact may be very difficult in practice. Voters need to understand the complexities before casting a vote.

Personally, I’d have no issue with the amendment if it granted equal rights and equal protection to everyone regardless of “race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, creed, or religion, or sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression” — but it doesn’t stop there. The final clause gives women an unlimited right to abortion on demand, regardless of the stage of gestation.

While many argued for or against the removal of “reproductive freedom” as guaranteed by Roe v. Wade, most would agree that abortion has been a hotly debated topic. As such, I do not feel it should be part of a bigger amendment like Prop 1. Instead, let’s get Prop 1 passed without its final clause, and then allow ample discussion time before trying to get a separate amendment passed that deals exclusively with whether a woman’s “right to privacy” trumps the right to life of the unborn, and if so, when?

PAM SINGER Malverne

“I hope to climb Bear Mountain, Mount Marcy and Mount Katahdin again, and perhaps others as well,” I wrote. “I hope. I hope. I hope. We must keep hope alive to remember why we should do all we can to survive these terrible and terrifying times.”

Scott Brinton is an assistant professor of journalism, media studies and public relations at Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. ©Scott A. Brinton. Comments? scott.brinton@hofstra.edu.

FRAMEWORK courtesy Peter Moran

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Soaking in the Secret Lagoon hot springs — Fludir, Iceland

SCOTT BRINTON