Emily Victoria, of Let’s Sing Taylor, which performs all things Taylor Swift, captivated the audience with renditions of Swift’s hits at a special concert for children with cancer and their families at Sunrise Day Camp-Long Island. Story, more photos, Page 3.
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Oceanside residents had a chance to lend a helping hand in the battle against food insecurity on Long Island when the Power to Feed Long Island food drive made its seventh stop of the summer at the Oceanside Stop & Shop last Friday. Power to Feed, a food drive initiative by PSEG Long Island and Island Harvest, partners with Island Harvest and PSEG Long Island. PSEG provides venues for residents to donate food and other necessities to their neighbors in need.
“I came down to support the cause, and I’m happy that it turned out good,” Joe Ponte, a
member of the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce board of directors, said. “We need more people giving and caring.”
Oceanside’s D’Cocco’s Pizzeria supplied volunteers with pizza as they collected outside the supermarket in the Sands Shopping Center. Food collection bins and a drive-through option were set up in the parking lot and in front of the store, where people could donate nonperishable items and household essentials. Shoppers received reusable shopping bags as a thank-you for their donations.
The event aimed to combat the growing problem of food insecurity in the area. About 20 vol-
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Aleena Zeejah, a 16-year-old Oceanside High School student, is doing her part to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by mental health conditions, launching the Cards For Mental Health initiative.
The project encourages local teens and volunteers across Long Island to create handmade cards, which are then delivered to patients in mental health units at local hospitals. The project aims to lift patients’ spirits during their hospital stays and spread awareness about the importance of mental health.
Zeejah’s AP experience coursework inspired her initiative, with students creating handmade cards to brighten the days of patients battling cancer. The experience was so moving that it ignited a spark in her to do even more.
“I enjoyed that, and that led me to want to start cards for mental health,” Zeejah said.
“People make cards like how I was doing for AP experience, but give these cards to people in mental health emergency rooms and hospitals to help people while they’re in the hospital.”
Each card features encouraging messages and uplifting images, such as a Stitch-themed card with the phrase on the front that reads, “Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind.” An inspiring note on the inside reads, “I believe in you. You’re strong, you’re amazing, and you have the power to get through this.”
Zeejah’s dedication to mental health advocacy stems from her involvement in a school program called natural helpers, which focuses on peer support and mental health education. She has been part of this program since eighth grade and credits it with sparking her interest in mental health.
“It’s like a peer support group,” Zeejah said. “It’s cen -
Continued on page 10
Christian Vaseghi, an Oceanside High School Class of 2024 graduate, is a recipient of the Long Island Association of Special Education Administrators award.
The award recognizes students in Nassau and Suffolk County who are completing their high school education and have successfully met goals on their education plan, demonstrated good citizenship and were involved in extracurricular activities and community service.
Vaseghi’s teachers agree that his success is a testament to his unwavering persistence and eagerness to learn. He overcame obstacles through exceptional dedication and attendance, rarely missing an opportunity to work towards his goals.
Beyond his academic achievements, Vaseghi is charismatic and social and actively contributes to his community. He has engaged in vocational internships, school clubs, and leadership roles at his church, earning praise for his commitment and work ethic.
Participation in extracurricular activities such as Best Buddies and Challenger Basketball exemplify Christian’s sportsmanship, encouragement of others, and dedication to fostering connections with peers.
Vaseghi plans to continue his active involvement in the Oceanside community, fostering relationships with local businesses, Camp Anchor, and his church, while exploring vocational experiences to further expand his skill set.
Vasehi’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community involvement, and the positive impact one can have on those around them.
As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, his legacy at Oceanside High School has the potential to continue to inspire both his peers and future generations of students.
“We are incredibly proud of Christian,” said Tracy Murray, executive director of special education at the Oceanside School District. “He has brought so much to our school community and we are excited about his future growth and success.”
–Kepherd Daniel
a spirited performance for a good cause.
Sunrise Day Camp-Long Island became a haven of joy and music as campers and their families gathered for an exclusive concert by Let’s Sing Taylor, the world’s largest Taylor Swift tribute band on Aug 14. The event took place at the Henry Kaufman campgrounds in Wheatley Heights, offering a day of respite and celebration for children battling cancer and their siblings.
The concert, a special gift from ML Presents—the band’s management team— brought the magic of Taylor Swift’s music to the camp, creating an unforgettable experience for those in attendance. The Let’s Sing Taylor band delivered energetic renditions of Taylor Swift’s hits. The
smiles on the faces of the children and their families were a testament to the impact of the performance, as they momentarily set aside their daily challenges to immerse themselves in the joy of music.
Sunrise Day Camp - Long Island, part of the Sunrise Association in Oceanside, is a summer day camp that provides a free and supportive environment for children with cancer and their siblings. The camp’s mission is to bring back the joys of childhood for these young warriors, and events like the Let’s Sing Taylor concert play a significant role in achieving this goal.
–Kepherd Daniel
By JOE CALDERONE
cial district.
Special to the Herald
Vishnu Dutt Sharma, 84, a father of three who owned a well-known women’s clothing boutique in Cedarhurst, died peacefully on Aug. 15 in Oceanside after a brief illness, surrounded by his family.
Vishnu came to the United States 55 years ago from his native New Delhi in India, embodying the spirit of determination and hard work to achieve the American dream. He settled in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn, later moving to Kensington. He worked for more than 30 years in the garment industry, first as a wholesaler, selling silk and other material to Sach’s Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor and Bloomingdale’s.
Later in his career, he opened a popular women’s clothing store, Vingami’s, located in Cedarhurst in the Five Towns on Long Island’s South Shore. The shop sold women’s blouses, dresses and jewelry. He also operated similar stores on the Upper East Side in Manhattan and in the downtown finan-
Among his proudest accomplishments was being able to put his three sons through college. Two sons achieved advanced degrees in medicine and in the law. His son, Adhi, an emergency medicine physician, currently serves as President of Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital in Oceanside.
He is remembered with profound affection by his wife of 62 years, Shanta Sharma. The two began their courtship when Vishnu charmingly followed her home one-day, 66 years ago. He is survived by his wife, Shanta, grandchildren and his three sons, Gan, Adhi, and Ami.
Throughout his life, Vishnu was a pillar of strength and love for his family and community, leaving behind a legacy of enduring values and commitment to his loved ones. His life story is a testament to the enduring spirit of hope and perseverance.
A service was held at Moloney’s Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Center in Lake Ronkonkoma on Aug. 18.
A farmer came in to see us recently with this dilemma. He had a working farm where his twenty something daughter and her husband were engaged full-time. His other daughter worked in the arts in New York City. He wanted to keep the farm in the family, but didn’t know how.
He initially wanted to leave the farm and his other assets to the two daughters in equal shares. We cautioned against this since, we advised, no one likes to do all the work and then split the profits. Additionally, real estate prices could be considerably higher on his death and there might not be enough money in the estate for the working daughter to buy out her sister. We also had to consider the sweat equity the young couple would be building up over the years working the farm. Here’s how the matter was ultimately resolved to the client’s satisfaction.
We deeded the farm now to the working daughter (not her and her husband quite yet) reserving a “life estate” in the farmer so that he had a right to live there for the rest of his
life and preserving his senior tax exemption on the property. We established the value of the property today, and made a bequest on his death, from the farmer’s living trust, of a like amount in cash to the sister before the balance of the trust was divvied up.
Now the young working couple are secure in their future, the non-working daughter gets her fair share of the estate and the farmer is protected in his rights for life. Most important of all, he has the peace of mind in knowing that the farm will stay in the family.
If you’re a business owner, and have one or more children working in the business, you have the same issues. We generally like to see the “working” children take over the business and other assets used to even out the estate distribution with the “non-working” children. Where there are not enough other assets to make the distribution even, then life insurance or a mortgage can be used for this purpose, or the “working” children can pay off the “nonworking” children over a period of years at a rate the family business can afford.
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Mount Sinai South Nassau has received a $1 million donation from the Betty Ajces Trust to enhance cancer patient clinical trials and research on Long Island. This marks the second significant contribution from the Trust, following a $200,000 donation last August that established the Leon and Betty Ajces Memorial Fund to support the hospital’s cancer research and prevention efforts.
“This generous gift will allow us to offer patients access to cutting-edge cancer therapies, technologies, and treatment protocols through clinical trials, right here on Long Island,” said Adhi Sharma, president of Mount Sinai South Nassau. “Patients will no longer need to travel to New York City for these opportunities.”
As part of the Mount Sinai Health System’s National Clinical Trial Network, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Department of Clinical Research plays a crucial role in leading clinical trials to establish new standards of care, test innovative treatment approaches, and validate new human genome biomarkers.
Sinai South Nassau offers a range of innovative clinical trials and access to leading oncologists specializing in both common and rare cancers. The $1 million donation will help Mount Sinai South Nassau extend access to clinical trials already underway at The Tisch Cancer Institute.
“This gift will allow us to expand our support for these trials and increase access for patients who prefer not to travel to New York City,” said Rajiv Datta, chair of the department of surgery and director of the Feil Cancer Center.
t his gift will allow patients access to cuttingedge cancer therapies.
ADhi shARmA President, Mount Sinai
The hospital’s protocol review committee, comprising specialists and support services, ensures that all clinical trials align with the National Cancer Institute’s standards and the hospital’s mission. The Institutional Review Board then provides regulatory oversight to safeguard patients participating in these trials. Currently, Mount Sinai South Nassau has patients enrolled in breast and lung cancer clinical trials.
“We are pleased to support Mount Sinai South Nassau in expanding access to the latest cancer treatments on Long Island,” said Alan Weiner, trustee of the Betty Ajces Trust and a longtime friend of the Ajces family.”
The department, based at the Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center in Valley Stream, collaborates closely with The Tisch Cancer Institute in Manhattan, a National Cancer Institute-designated center known for its pioneering cancer research. The Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center treats approximately 2,500 patients annually and is equipped with advanced technologies for cancer treatment. Through its partnership with the Mount Sinai Health System, Mount
Betty Ajces, born in Jackson Heights, Queens, in 1929, had a deep connection to the arts, performing with an “all-girl” jazz trio in the late 1940s and 1950s, and serving as Chair of the Board of the Rockaway-Five Towns Orchestra. She passed away in August 2022 at the age of 93. Her husband, Leon Ajces, was a Ukrainianborn immigrant and World War II veteran who later became a successful businessman in the United States.
“This gift will significantly enhance our ability to provide cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials to our Long Island patients,” said Karyn Goodman, associate director of clinical research at The Tisch Cancer Institute.
–Kepherd Daniel
■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/oceanside ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: oceaneditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 265 E-mail: oceaneditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS:
unteers were on hand for the food drive.
“It’s been in my fabric for many, many years,” Marty Gately, a volunteer with PSEG Long Island, said. “This is probably my fourth year doing this. You realize that it really hits home that there are people here that need food. Food and medicine are such a necessity that you kind of take them for granted, and then you see, right here, the faces of people who need them. The most endearing thing is seeing that people aren’t too embarrassed to come and ask for help.”
The drive welcomes non-perishable items such as pasta, sauces, cereals, and personal-care products like shampoo. Residents have donated not only food, but money.
Power to Feed was created four years to partner with Island Harvest. Each summer, PSEG runs a campaign encouraging people to donate food, which helps replenish Long Island food banks. Over the past four years, the initiative has raised enough food to provide over 100,000 meals.
Long Island is often associated with affluence, but is also home to many who struggle to make ends meet. “So many people on Long Island struggle with food insecurity,” said Mark Gross, a representative of PSEG Long Island. “It’s a great way for us to do something meaningful for the community.”
Island Harvest collaborates with PSEG Long Island on other initiatives as well, including emergency response. Island Harvest’s food collective coordinator, Bena Halloran, who has been with the organization for three years, discussed the increasing demand for food assistance.
“Demand is at an all-time high — even higher than it was during Covid,” Halloran said. “With the cost of groceries, gas and utilities skyrocketing, people are having
a tough time. Unfortunately, many companies are downsizing. People are losing jobs, or not fully employed.”
“There are so many ways to support us,” she added. “People can volunteer, donate money — $1 buys two meals — or donate food. Just getting involved in the community. Look for events where we distribute food, come out and support them. It makes a huge difference.”
As the Power to Feed summer food drives nears its conclusion, with one more event scheduled in West Babylon next month, the efforts of volunteers continue to make a significant impact on Long Island communities. And the initiative not only addresses the immediate
needs of those facing food insecurity, but also inspires many of the volunteers.
Among those who took part in Oceanside was Justin Oquendo, an eighth-grade Patchogue resident who, after initially volunteering to fulfill a community service requirement for his confirmation, found himself drawn to the cause. His mother, April Oquendo, expressed her pride.
“He needed to do it originally for confirmation community service, and then he got the hours, but he wanted to do more,” she said. “I’m a proud mommy. It’s so great to see him wanting to help out.”
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Caleb Corbett, left, out of Longwood High School, keys Nassau’s ground attack. At right, Jayden Taylor, a Walt Whitman High School product, tops the depth chart at quarterback for the Lions, who play five of their first six games on the road.
By TONY BELLISSIMO
tbellissimo@liherald.com
Jhaleel Oswald, a former Nassau Community College football captain and key member of its 2013 Toro Bowl-winning team, is the Lions’ new head coach after running the defense/special teams under predecessor Jamel Ramsay for the past two seasons.
The Lions, who tackled plenty of adversity in 2023 and finished a disappointing 5-5, have more than 80 in the program and kick off the Oswald era with a trip to Cleveland to face Rochester Community and Technical College this Saturday at 4 p.m. The Yellowjackets are coming off a heartbreaking loss to DuPage in the NJCAA National Championship game.
“Last year we went through a lot of trials and tribulations and didn’t play up to our standards,” said Oswald, a free safety during his playing days at Nassau and LIU. “Our expectations are to put out a product that gets us back on track with our foundation and culture,” he said. “I’m not sure if we can measure that with wins and losses this year since we have a very young team with about 60 freshmen, but I know these guys are going to play hard and also work hard in the classroom.”
With five of the first six games on the road, Oswald likes the idea of a youthful team spending lots of time together and building camaraderie.
“It’s both a blessing and a curse,” Oswald said of the challenging schedule that includes visits to Navy Prep, Hudson Valley CC and Hocking in September. “We’re going to find a lot out about ourselves early,” he
Aug.
Sept.
Sept. 28 Hocking Away
Oct. 4 Wagner JV Away
Oct. 12 Eric CC Home
Oct. 19 Monroe Home
Oct. 26 Hudson CC
Nov. 2 Louisburg
added. “At the same time, it’s a good opportunity to grow the chemistry. We’re trying to look at the schedule in a positive way and we’ll have a bunch of home games in the second half of the season.”
The Lions’ home opener at Mitchel Athletic Complex is under the lights against Army Prep on Friday, Sept. 13. They’ll then play three consecutive games at home in October, versus Erie CC, Monroe and Hudson Valley CC. “We’re playing all respectable programs with quality coaches,” Oswald said. “Every week is going to be a battle.”
Some key new faces to the offense are former Suffolk County high school standouts Jayden Taylor (Walt Whitman quarterback) and Caleb Corbett (Longwood running back.)
Taylor, a lefty with a strong arm, mobility, leadership qualities and knowledge of the game, improved every day in camp, Oswald said, to win the starting job. “He’s a great kid who can do a little bit of everything and I’m really looking forward to him leading our offense,” Oswald said.
Corbett will lead a backfield that includes transfer Eric Harris and serve as one of Oswald’s targets. “Caleb is a powerful runner with good hands and he’s stood out in camp,” the coach said.
A pair of sophomore receivers, Elijah Porter and Andre Mottas, 6-foot-3 and 6-1, respectively, are primed to up their production and make their presence felt downfield. “They’re similar players who run well, have good size and excellent hands,” Oswald said.
The offensive line is one of the Lions’ top position groups and can go eight deep according to Oswald. Sophomore Kenroy Hutchinson anchors the unit at center, with sophomore Jaeden Davis-Samuels of Hempstead and freshman Jayden Jagmohan other confirmed starters
On the defensive side, sophomore linebacker Ja’quevios Sam comes off a 49-tackle campaign, sophomore cornerback Dwayne Shulters picked off 2 passes and broke up 6, and could form a shutdown tandem with Abdul Somo.
On special teams, kicker Igor Rzasa and punter Danny Iobo will take care of the legwork.
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO & WILL SHEELINE of the Herald
The smell of marijuana has sparked division across New York state ever since its legalization under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act on March 31, 2021. While some residents celebrate the change, others express frustration over the strong odor infiltrating public spaces.
According to the New York State Cannabis website, it is legal to smoke or vape cannabis in most areas where tobacco use is permitted, such as private homes or backyards. However, landlords can still ban smoking — both tobacco and marijuana — in apartment buildings. Cannabis consumption is prohibited in motor vehicles, hookah and cigar bars, businesses, restaurants including patios, federal property including public housing, and most public and state parks as well as beaches.
Even with cannabis legalized across the state, the Town of Hempstead has taken measures to restrict its availability. Supervisor Don Clavin and the Town Board unanimously voted to opt out of marijuana sales on Dec. 8, 2021, preventing businesses from selling it within the town’s borders.
This decision is in line with the state’s Cannabis Law, specifically Section 131, which allows towns, cities, and villages to prohibit cannabis businesses if they passed a local law on or before the later of Dec. 31, 2021, or nine months after the effective date of the section.
Medical marijuana dispensaries can only operate in specific zoning districts, and they must be in buildings with active medical offices and receive authorization from the State Department of Health.
No more than two medical dispensaries are allowed in the town at any time. They cannot be within 1,000 feet of schools, child day-care centers, parks, or places of worship, and must be at least 500 feet from residential areas, with some exceptions. They must operate between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., and consumption or use of marijuana on-site is prohibited. People under 18 are not allowed on the premises unless they are patients or accompanied by a guardian.
The Town of Oyster Bay and the City of Long Beach also opted out of permitting cannabis retail dispensaries and on-site consumption sites in December 2021.
Despite these laws and restrictions, the smell of marijuana still seeps into prohibited areas, demonstrating the ongoing difficulty in controlling its impact on public spaces.
Avita John, a 24-year-old from Wantagh, has faced significant challenges due to her severe asthma, which is exacerbated by marijuana smoke.
“Smell is something that could trigger anything for me, but especially with, like, weed, since it’s a type of, like, smoking and vaping, you could say, that
triggers my asthmatic tendencies more,” John said. “And what happens is that when I smell it, I just want to puke. My lungs, everything, my throat just closes up. So, it’s very hard for me to breathe.”
The problem is particularly evident in her work environment, where customers are often under the influence of marijuana. The presence of smoke in the air makes it difficult for her to interact with them, and exacerbates her health struggles.
In addition to the problems caused by the smell of marijuana, John highlighted broader concerns that affect lung health, suggesting that while laws and designated smoking areas are designed to reduce health risks, they may not fully address the broader challenges of environmental pollution and secondhand smoke.
“I don’t think legislation or governments could do anything, per se, because
they will have to interview us, or they’ll have a form for the insurance company to fill out saying that we’re asthmatic, we have lung issues, and we can’t be around smokers,” she said. “We can’t be around air pollution. But then, there’s air pollution everywhere. We don’t have clean air technically. I would say maybe they could help with our medication causes or give us some monetary incentive to help us with our health care, because they can’t provide a safe space for us. They already have spaces designated for smokers, but there are a lot of people who don’t abide by that.”
The potential problems linked to the smell of marijuana aren’t just limited to health concerns. Alison Camardella, president of the North Shore Coalition Against Substance Abuse, emphasized that the risk of normalizing marijuana smoking can risk the normalization of its use by young people.
“The dramatic increase in marijuana
smells in our parks, at our beaches and even, you know, sporting events normalizes the use of drugs for our kids, and that’s our concern,” Camardella said. “So regularly seeing and smelling it gives our kids the wrong message that this is safe and that this is OK and that it’s socially acceptable.”
CASA is a nonprofit that focuses on reducing the abuse of drugs, alcohol and tobacco among students in the North Shore School District. Camardella emphasized that while the dangers of alcohol and tobacco are well-publicized and acknowledged, the potential risks of marijuana abuse by young people are often underreported and brushed aside.
“The more that they see adults using it, the more they’re at risk of using it at a younger age,” Camardella continued. “There is no question that marijuana use in the teen years is not only bad for their developing brains, but it also increases their risk of addiction later in life.”
Not everyone agrees that this is a public issue however. Anthony G., a construction worker who buys marijuana products from the dispensary Strain Stars in Farmingdale and requested anonymity, argued that smoking marijuana in public is legal. Furthermore, he made a contrast between the smoking of cigarettes in public versus smoking marijuana.
“I’m not breaking any laws — I’m not smoking in people’s faces,” he said. “It feels like a double standard, because people are still smoking cigarettes everywhere.”
As marijuana continues to become more accessible and its smell spreads through public areas, finding solutions to maintain comfort and well-being for everyone in these spaces is becoming increasingly important.
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
The water quality in Hempstead’s Western Bays continues to show progressive improvement, according to a report presented Aug. 15 by officials from the Long Island Regional Planning Council, the Town of Hempstead, and Hofstra University’s National Center for Suburban Studies.
The report, shown at a briefing held at the Town of Hempstead Marine Laboratory, revealed significant decreases in nitrogen, ammonia, and other harmful pollutants that have historically degraded the water and damaged local coastal wetlands.
“Hempstead Bay and its major tributaries, known as the Western Bays, help drive a multi-billion-dollar economy,” said Richard Guardino, executive director of the LIRPC. “It’s fueled by recreation, bathing, boating, fishing, and seafood harvesting. The Western Bays contribute greatly to the quality of life we enjoy right here in the Town of Hempstead, and it’s one of the most beautiful coastal areas in all of the nation.”
Despite the promising results, officials cautioned that work remains to fully restore the bays’ health. They emphasized that multi-level efforts to reduce nitrogen pollution in the waterways should remain a top priority.
Excess nitrogen is recognized as the
An Aug. 15 briefing at the Town of Hempstead Marine Laboratory illustrated a significant decrease in nitrogen pollution in Long Island waters.
leading cause of water quality deterioration in the region, contributing to toxic algal blooms, low oxygen, fish kills, and the destruction of vital marine habitats. It also poses a significant risk to Long Island’s drinking water, because groundwater serves as the island’s source of freshwater.
The Hempstead Bay Water Quality Monitoring Project, initially launched in the 1980s and revived in 2019 under the Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan, has been key in addressing water quality issues in the area. The project collects
water samples from various locations in the bays and inland areas to measure levels of nitrogen, ammonia, and other pollutants.
“This is an investment in the environment. This is an investment in the economy,” Councilman Chris Schneider said. “It’s an investment in our safety, and the results we’re seeing, the fruits of the results of that investment, they are terrific, and we’re going to continue it.”
of 40 surface water stations located
across the Western Bays. These stations help track pollutant levels in the water. In addition, three continuous monitoring sites provide real-time data, and 20 deep-water locations allow researchers to assess conditions below the surface. There are also 12 inland sites to monitor nitrogen deposits from atmospheric conditions and rainwater.
“We’ve seen that the water is becoming cleaner. We’ve seen lately less nitrogen in the water,” Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin said. “And it’s through all these combinations — people committed to making sure that the future is bright for their children, programs we run through the town — but it’s through the ability now to test it here that’s going to be most beneficial, and we are so grateful to have this.”
Hofstra Professor Steve Raciti presented data comparing water quality from 1980 to 1985, which showed high levels of nitrate marked in red on the charts, to the period from 2020 to 2023, when the water had largely transitioned to blue, indicating much lower nitrate levels. Areas near wastewater-treatment plants showed the most significant improvements.
With an additional $5 million invested by the state in the Long Island Nitrogen Action plan since 2015, the program els across the Island, beyond just runoff
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tered around mental health and helping people who are struggling with mental health, and using the tools that you have learned through your training with the club to help other people and try not to put that burden on yourself. I really learned a lot from natural helpers, and they taught me a lot about mental health.”
Zeejah, a rising junior at the High School, was inspired to start this project during her AP class, where she initially made cards for cancer patients. Realizing the impact of these small gestures, she decided to expand the idea to focus on mental health.
Zeejah and her friends delivered the first batch of 85 cards to Long Island Community Hospital on Aug. 8. Her initiative gained traction when she connected with Rocío López Fontela, the hospital’s manager of patient relations in July.
“When I received her email, we started coordinating, and I thought it was a lovely idea what they did,” Fontela said. “Everyone was so happy and receptive to it. We went in, and they loved it and it made their day. I felt that was a really sweet moment for them, which made it worth it.”
Zeejah has involved eight friends in creating the cards and is working to expand the project by engaging the wider community. She has already begun opening up dialogue to collaborate with the Oceanside Library and plans to involve the Oceanside High School’s new Wellness Center once the school year begins.
Zeejah has created an Instagram page, @cards_formentalhealth, to promote the initiative, which has attracted more than 200 followers. The platform helps to spread the word and recruit
more volunteers.
Zeejah plans to extend the project to more hospitals and involve additional community members. She has already reached out to Mount Sinai South Nassau and Northwell Health, and is determined to continue expanding her initiative. She has also connected with Town of Hempstead Clerk Kate Murray, who has shown support for the project and plans to assist in expanding it.
“That’s really the goal with them — try to expand this and get as many volunteers as we possibly can to make these cards, and, hopefully, it goes further than that,” Zeejah said. “It was very eye-opening, and we just realized how much of an impact one card or one person can make in so many people’s lives.”
A collage of the uplifting messages given to hospital patients.
True success throughout life starts with a plan. Implement that strategy with your student early on and results are sure to follow. It’s important to establish some rules from the beginning to follow through the entire year, this will help reduce anxiety and replace it with a sense of calm. Focus on creating good habits rather than only grades, if you do that the grades will happen.
Help your child get organized. Instead of nagging, show him how being organized will pay dividends in life. Let him experience the ease of being able to find things, the joy of being on time, and the sense of control that organization will bring.
Plan ahead so mornings go smoothly. There is an old saying, “well begun is half done,” and it certainly is true about getting off to school. Start your planning the night before by making sure your child gets enough rest. A slightly earlier bedtime may make a big difference to your child’s ability to function in the morning. Have him lay out his clothes before he goes to bed, and put everything else he needs for school in his backpack. It’s a good idea to have him put the backpack right on top of his shoes, so he can’t leave the house without it.
Help your child keep up with his work; avoid procrastination. Share a tip from time-management experts: break tasks into manageable parts, and do one at a time until the job is finished.
That involves getting a handle on homework. Provide a place for your child to do his homework, and make sure he has the necessary supplies for being organized. Keep things like pencils, paper, ruler and colored markers all together in a pencil box or shoe box to save time looking around when doing homework.
Set a time to do homework. Some families like to do homework right after school, while others prefer doing it after dinner. Whatever you decide, find one that works
for everyone, then stick to it as often as possible. If the child has no homework, read! Try some offbeat ways to encourage your child to read. Use a current film as a starting point to encourage your child to dip into the book it is based on. Or help your child to write a letter to the author of a favorite book. (Send it to the publisher most authors are good about replying to letters from children.) Do all you can to foster your child’s love of reading. Video games are fun, but they don’t develop vocabulary
and language skills the way reading does. Take a critical look at your child’s extra-curricular activities. Look especially hard at team sports, which require long hours of practice. Is your child overscheduled, trying to do far more than a child should do at this age? If so, you may have to consider cutting back to leave more time and energy for learning.
Remember the power of praise. Let it work its magic to motivate your child. Displaying a child’s best work is a form of praise. Add a special touch to an especially good paper by having it laminated. You can do it yourself with clear contact paper.
Celebrate your child’s successes, no matter how small. Learning is not always easy for children, and sometimes their progress may be measured in very small steps. When your child does master a new skill, rejoice together.
Save time for fun. Play restores the body and stimulates brain connections, which makes learning easier in school. After all, there’s more to life than long division.
Photo: Organization is one of the key factors to doing well in school. In fact, disorganization can lead to lower grades, increased frustration and stress, and even lower self-esteem. Students who have better organization habits often perform better on assignments, get more done, and have more free time than their disorganized peers.
s I revisited my Facebook messages of 2010, I was reminded of the excitement we all shared in joining this new universal platform where we could connect and discover family and friends everywhere!
Fast forward to today, a time when studies have shown how the lack of social media boundaries reveals negative consequences, especially relating to our young children and teens, as well as our overall mental health. As such, social media is a universal topic that cannot be ignored, especially as technology and artificial intelligence continue to grow towards altering our human connections and experiences.
Effects on mental health
Social media use may increase feelings of anxiety and depression, specifically in teens and young adults. The addictive nature of social media activates the brain’s reward center by releasing dopamine.
Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) For Kids Act to require social media companies to restrict addictive feeds on their platforms for users under 18.
Emotional validation
But what about why people post in the first place? Social media can be a great way to keep in touch with people and share information. However, it can also feed into excessive reassuranceseeking behaviors and unhealthy attempts at getting personal validation from others.
This is a “feel-good chemical” linked to pleasurable activities. When we post something, our friends and family can “like” it, giving us a boost of dopamine and personal validation. Equally true, excessive perceived threats on social media affect the stress response. Meaning, if you’re exposed to verbal aggression continually, words can physically injure your brain and overall health and emotional well being.
Relating to children and adolescents
We have gaps in our full understanding of the mental health impacts posed by social media but at this point cannot conclude it is sufficiently safe for children and adolescents. We must better understand the answers to key questions, such as, which types of content are most harmful and what factors can protect young people from the negative effects of social media, especially relating to the developing brain.
New York could ban smartphones in school
On June 20, 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul, signed nation-leading legislation to combat addictive social media feeds and protect kids online. Legislation S.7694A/A.8148A establishes the
Social media and defamation
On the negative side, it is clear that social media has become a liability landmine impacting people everywhere and why considering contacting a defamation attorney for legal advice about what you can do in addressing online character defamation.
Seek fulfillment outside of social media
Prioritize in-person, human connections and activities to help improve your mental health. This can also lead to decreased screen time. Find activities that fulfill you outside of your phone. Hiking, picnics with friends, painting, reading, or walking your dog can be great ways to connect with others. Activities you enjoy can also improve your physical and mental health.
On a personal note: Social media is here to stay, impacting our human lives on every level and why it is absolutely crucial to implement appropriate regulations and legal support. To do so to protect our personal lives, mental health and emotional safety. After all, our words carry “life” and the power to impact our daily lives and the lives of others, be it to heal or hurt, open hearts and minds or close them. To understand, “the power of words” is real and why words can only be forgiven, not forgotten.
Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.
Boogie along with Disco Unlimited at Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. When Disco Unlimited hits the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will — when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins. Capturing a time in music that to this day has not been matched, the exhilarating band will draw you in with their powerful vocals, tight harmonies and dance grooves all coupled with a synchronized stage and light show that creates an unforgettable concert experience. Close your eyes and you will truly believe you are listening to the original artists. Hear the best of Tavares, France Jolie, The Trammps, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Yvonne Elliman, Anita Ward, Deney Terrio, George McCrae, Bonnie Pointer, Melba Moore, Maxine Nightingale, Carol Douglas, and so much more. This group of unique musicians love and live this era of music. As always, bring seating.
Saturday, Aug. 24, 7-9 p.m. For information, visit NassauCcountyNY. gov/parks.
By Iris Wiener
Al Jolson was considered the “Greatest Entertainer” of his day, so it is no surprise that the annual
Long Island Jolson Festival is celebrating 25 years next month, Sept. 7.
The unique and lively remembrance of the icon, who was a pioneer in many genres in the 1920s — including music, film (“The Jazz Singer”) and theater (“Hold on to Your Hats”) — will be filled with nostalgia, the musical stylings of beloved Jolson entertainer Tony Babino and by “Mr. Tin Pan Alley,” Richard Halpern, along with many memorable surprises.
The festival, which returns to Lambrou’s Catering Hall in Island Park, will also treat guests to comedic performances, an auction and the camaraderie of being in a space shared with like-minded Jolson enthusiasts. Jan Hernstat, the International Al Jolson Society’s longtime president, says that fans travel to Long Island for this special experience from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and even Virginia.
“Jolson was the biggest star of the ‘20s, ‘30s and much of the ‘40s,” says Hernstat. “The problem is people don’t remember him anymore because there’s no outlet for his work. He was a star before radio, television and talking movies. There was no internet, and yet people all over the world knew who he was! The Al Jolson Festival is our way of letting people know the kind of talent that he was, and the kind of things that he did. There’s still a lot of people who want to come and celebrate him.”
Hernstat has been organizing the event since its inception. “It’s amazing, and we’ve had a lot of different people join us over the years. Soupy Sales, Margaret Whiting, Sheldon Harnick,” he recalls.
• Sept. 7, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
• Tickets are $49.95, which includes entertainment and meals; tickets for show only are $29.95
• Information and tickets available at Jolson.org or call Jan Hernstat at (516) 678-3524.
• Lambrou’s Catering Hall, 4073 Austin Blvd., Island Park
To everyone’s delight, mainstay Babbino — aka “The Heart of Al Jolson” — is always the grand finale.
“I’ve had the great honor of being a part of it all these years,” says Babino as he considers his history with the festival. “It’s a great tribute to one of the greatest entertainers, and it’s something special to me because I’ve been paying tribute to Jolson my entire life. To be able to do it continually for the people who appreciate it, it’s really an amazing thing for me to experience.”
Hernstat wanted to focus on comedy this year. He’s brought in impressionists taking on Groucho Marx, Rodney Dangerfield and Laurel & Hardy.
“We’re going to recreate a radio skit that was done on ‘Kraft Music Hall’ between Jolson and Groucho,” Hernstat says. “We have an actual script!”
And, of course, there’s memorabilia available for sale, as always. This year’s selection includes items from a long time collector who passed.
“There are many things you couldn’t get otherwise. Between the auction and the sale, there’s going to be an awful lot of things Jolson fans can take advantage of,” Hernstat adds.
“It’s important to keep Jolson’s legacy alive for so many reasons, besides his one-of-a-kind, unique voice that’s easily recognizable,” Babino says.”He came to the U.S. as a little kid and went on to live the American dream. He did it all on his own. He became the biggest star in the country — on Broadway and then in the movies. At a time when it was very difficult to get to New York from other places, Jolson came up with the idea to take a full Broadway show on the road. That became the forerunner of the touring companies we have today. He was the first guy to go overseas and sing for the troops in World War II. He accomplished all these things [and many more] and he was kind of a forefather of modern show business.”
Participating yearly is truly a labor of love for the vocalist.
“We get such joy out of making it fun and interesting, performing some of the great and familiar music that people still love. We make a great day of it,” Babino says.
Hernstat remains intent on keeping Jolson’s legacy front and center in the public eye.
“If you are a lover of old time nostalgic stars of the past, you should not miss this,” he says with enthusiasm. “You’re going to want to come back again and again. We hope to continue to do this year after year, but don’t miss this one. It’s one for the ages!”
‘Good times never seemed so good’
Neil Diamond is certainly forever — as honored by the musicians who perform as Neil Forever. The 14-piece band delivers an authentic, exciting and joyful concert. Performing Diamond’s music is as much about heart and soul as it is talent; it’s a celebration of the music and the man who created it. Founder David Jacobson (lead vocals/guitar), has a great passion for Diamond’s music and legacy. Jacobson, along with his son and music director Dylan Jacobson and drummer John Cardoso began their journey only recently, in January of 2023. The band is already forging an exciting path, as discovered by excited and passionate fans of all ages. Audiences are thrilled by the authentic renditions of classic Neil Diamond hits, especially“Sweet Caroline,” of course.
Saturday, Aug. 24, 8 p.m. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY. com.
Guitarist Dweezil Zappa brings the aptly named “Rox-Postrophy” Tour to the Paramount stage, Friday, Aug. 30, 8 p.m. Zappa is celebrating two of his father Frank Zappa’s landmark albums, “Roxy & Elsewhere” and “Apostrophe.”
The tour commemorates the 50th Anniversary of both albums and Zappa has curated a setlist highlighting fan-favorite tracks from each record, replete with unique hybrid arrangements.
“The songs you think you know, may just end up surprising you with parts you’ve never heard before” according to Zappa. A Grammy-winning musician, Zappa has left an indelible mark on the music industry with over 2,000 concerts performed worldwide.
Known for his masterful performances and deep connection to his father’s music, he returning to concert stages for the first time since the 2020 Hot Ratz Live! Tour, continuing to guide fans through the thrilling and sophisticated world of his father’s music. His virtuosity on the guitar is matched only by his prolific compositional skills, which have generated numerous original works spanning multiple albums including “Confessions of Deprived Youth” (1991) and “Via Zammata” (2015). His music effortlessly traverses genres, seamlessly weaving together elements of rock, fusion, and experimental sounds, all while maintaining a signature style that is unmistakably his own. In addition to his solo work, Zappa has collaborated with an impressively varied roster of artists, including Edward Van Halen, Deep Purple, Lisa Loeb, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, and Steve Vai, among others. $89, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49. 50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
See some birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for the next in its series of bird walks, at Mill Pond Park in Wantagh, Sunday, Aug. 25, starting at 9 a.m. The group meets at the gazebo. The park is on the north side of Merrick Road, four blocks west of the Wantagh State Parkway.
Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit SSAudubon.org.
Oceanside SAFE invites all to the annual Overdose Awareness Day gathering, Thursday, Aug. 29, 6 p.m., at Schoolhouse Green. The event, in remembrance of those who have lost their lives to overdose, includes a flower planting ceremony, memorial crafts, entertainent, and free Narcan training provided by Dr. Dawn Williamson of NUMC, along with prevention resources. Hosted by Oceanside SAFE and the Oceanside Community Coalition. Foxhurst Road.
Rock on at Point Lookout for a rousing Labor Day weekend celebration, at Town Park Point Lookout, with Mike DelGuidice, Saturday, Aug. 31, 8 p.m. The free concert, hosted by the Town of Hempstead, concludes with fireworks. DelGuidice, known for his appearances with Billy Joel, captivates audiences all over with his renditions of the Joel hits, along with his own tunes. 1300 Lido Blvd. in Point Lookout. For information, visit toh.li.
Art talk
Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum, Thursday, Sept. 5, 1 p.m. She’ll discuss the current exhibition, “Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the in-depth program and also participate in a guided exhibition tour following the lecture. No registration required, but limited seating. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Enjoy a film outdoors on Eisenhower Park’s big screen, at the closing screening of the season, Wednesday, Aug. 28, dusk, at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. See “Wonka,” the prequel based on the Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” It tells the story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.
Starring Timothée Chalamet in the title role, the big screen spectacle introduces audiences to a young Willy Wonka, chockfull of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time. Eisenhower Park, Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
Outdoor movie Island Park Library hosts showing of the film “Wish,” Tuesday, Aug 27, 7:45 p.m., in the Library parking lot. Asha meets Star when she makes a powerful wish With Star’s help Asha must save her kingdom and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of stars, wondrous things can happen. Movie begins at 8 p.m. sharp Bring beach chair or blanket.
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Published authors and poets read from their works at the annual Summer Gazebo Readings series, Mondays, through Aug. 26, 7 p.m., at School House Green Bring a chair and enjoy a relaxing literary evening. Foxhurst Road across from Oceanside Fire Department headquarters.
Experience the vibrant San Gennaro Feast, Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 5-8, on Long Beach Road in Island Park. The opening procession will take place at 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, with Saturday evening also highly recommended for attendance. This feast is a beloved tradition, offering food, entertainment, and a sense of community spirit.
Adopt your “fur-ever” friend this summer. There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during the ”summer of love” at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. Now through Sept. 1, all pet adoption fees are waived and include free spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. There is a $10 license fee for dogs. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cats before stepping foot in the shelter online at HempsteadNY.gov/179/ Animal-Shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page at Hempstead Town Animal Shelter. For more information, contact (516) 785-5220.
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.
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.
DOX invites all to Duck the Turbines Duck Race Fundraiser, Thursday, Aug. 29, starting at 4 p.m. The fun-filled eventhosted by Protect Our Coast - LINY, includes First prize is $1,000, with $250 each for second and third prizes, and $50 heat prizes. Purchase your ducks for $25 each, or save with special rates. A $10 donation at the event includes one drink, live music, and entry into the door prize drawing. Luxury raffle items and a 50/50 raffle will also be available. All ducks and donations are tax-deductible. Winners need not be present. 10 Broadway, Island Park. Visit pocliny.org for more information, email email POCLINY@gmail.com or follow @POCLINY.
Village of Island Park hosts Labor Day concert by Superbad, block party and Fireworks immediately after concert all on Masone Beach on Waterford Road on Aug.31. Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. Rain Date Sept. 1 Call 515-431-0600 for more info.
The annual Greek Festival hosted by Panaghia of Island Park Greek Orthodox Church begins today, Aug. 22, and runs through Sunday. The festival, located at 83 Newport Road offers a vibrant celebration of Greek culture with live music, traditional food, pastries, and games.
Highlights include live music (Friday through Sunday), delicious Greek food and pastries, rides, games, and ample parking with shuttle services from the Ace Hardware store at 3965 Long Beach Rd.
The festival hours are as follows:
Thursday: 5-10 p.m.
Friday: 5-11 p.m.
Saturday: 12-11 p.m.
Sunday: 12-9 p.m.
Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to support the church by purchasing raffle tickets. –Kepherd Daniel
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWMBS, Inc., CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust 2004-25, Mortgage Pass Through Certificates, Series 2004-25, Plaintiff AGAINST Viktoriya Shtatlender, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 26, 2024, 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 September 25, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 31 East Windsor Parkway, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, SECTION: 38, BLOCK: 370, LOT: 564.
Approximate amount of judgment $790,701.40 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613281/2019. 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”. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. John Boklak, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-091027-F01 82035 148501
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST DONALD SCHREINER, JR., MICHELLE RANOLDESCHREINER, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 25, 2024, 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 September 24, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known
as 235 Madison Ave, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, at Foxhurst Park, Oceanside, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54 Block 239 Lot 156. Approximate amount of judgment $490,828.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612438/2022. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols 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”. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003408 81860 148489
LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR GSMPS MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2001-1,
Plaintiff, v. MAXIMO A. MACARIO, ET AL, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on May 17, 2018, I, Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on September 12, 2024 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 44 Warwick Road Island Park, NY 11558 43-31-377 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Village of Island Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 015498/2013 in the amount of $319,315.95 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 148327
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Sitting in section 201 of Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip, Joe Margolin recalled being at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn and getting to meet the 1950s Brooklyn Dodgers, including the team that won the 1955 World Series.
Margolin’s father, also Joe Margolin, was a lawyer in Brooklyn with an office near Judge Peter B. Hanson, Walter O’Malley’s father-in-law. O’Malley owned the Dodgers then.
“I actually met Sandy Koufax, I was a Brooklyn Dodger fan, Sandy had just come to the Brooklyn Dodgers as a bonus baby,” Margolin said. “He was there with (Duke) Snyder, (Gil) Hodges, the rest of the team.”
Margolin, a Valley Stream resident, who takes part in programs offered by the Marion & Aaron Gural JCC in the Five Towns and a member of the Center for Adult Life Enrichment in Hewlett, was at the Long Island Ducks Jewish Heritage Night with his wife Ellen and members of other JCCs as well on Sunday. The Ducks have held the event for nearly a decade and the JCCs have been involved for the past three years.
“It gives me a chance to get out and identify with my fellow Jews, also to show that we are here and we’re not going anywhere,” he said
His favorite Jewish ballplayer is Hank Greenberg. He and Koufax are the most recognizable Jewish baseball players.
The night however was much more than about baseball with the shadow of the Israel-Hamas hovering.
Along with the Gural JCC there was the Barry & Florence Friedberg JCC in Oceanside, Mid-Island Y JCC in Plainview, the Sid Jacobson JCC in Greenvale and the Suffolk Y HCC in Commack, which all partners with the UJA Federation of New York.
‘I think it’s incredible when the five Jewish community centers of Long
Island come together to show support for Israel and the Jewish community,” said Stacey Feldman, executive director the Gural JCC, which serves surrounding communities such as East Rockaway and Lynbrook. “We are united and stronger together, and it just makes a lot of sense to celebrate and commemorate together.”
The first favorite Jewish ballplayer that came to mind is Koufax, “along with our hometown hero Jacob Steinmetz,” Feldman added. The Woodmere resident and HAFTR High graduate became the first Orthodox Jewish baseball player drafted. Selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2021 he is currently pitching for their High-A Hillsboro team.
A somber tone embraced the ballpark when the family of Omer Neutra spoke to the crowd. Neutra, 22, of Plainview, is one of the eight Americans still held captive by Hamas.
“Having a Jewish Heritage Night anywhere is one of the most important things we can do to just reinforce that being Jewish we should be proud to be Jewish, and we’re friendly and want to make sure everybody gets along with each other,” said Rick Lewis, the CEO of the Mid-Island Y JCC.
Nearly 20 Jewish organizations joined forces to create the Long Island Jewish Coalition to advocate for Israel and to be “proactive instead of reactive to today’s current events,” Feldman said.
Dagan Cohen, who heads the Israel center at the Jacobson JCC, is also involved.
“We’re meeting all 19 organizations, all the JCCs, all the big organizations, every two weeks thinking together what can we do,” Cohen said, noting the fundraising.
There was also glatt kosher food, baseballs decorated with the American and Israeli flags and a baseball game. The Ducks lost 7-5 to the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, but won their 10th series out of the past 11.
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Q. We have been told that when we add to our second floor, over our one-story garage, we will have to change every window in the house so we can meet the “egress” code. This is going to make our project out of budget, so we have to ask somebody else to know whether this is the case, and whether there’s any way we can keep the windows we have. There is nothing wrong with them, and it seems like a lot of cost when, if we left everything alone, we apparently wouldn’t have to do this. Can you explain this?
A. You don’t need to change every window in your home. You got the easy, simple answer, which was wrong or, at best, only partially right, and misleading. If everything could be explained with a simple answer, like the black-and-white, all-ornothing answer that you received, the world would be a simpler place. But nothing is simple, and, unfortunately, regulations on windows, which make sense, were not explained to you correctly.
First, the building codes exist for occupant and public safety. You need to be able to escape in an emergency, and you also may need to be rescued. Picture a big firefighter with his equipment strapped to him, trying to get in to save a child who is huddled, as many will do, in a closet.
Window size regulations in the building codes for escape and rescue were changed with the issuance of the 2003 version. In that updated code, the previous clear opening size was 4 square feet, but it was changed to 5.7 square feet for floors above or below the first floor. The first-floor windows for habitable spaces were then upgraded to 5 square feet clear opening from 4 square feet. This became required if more than 50 percent of the building was being physically altered, or if the occupancy use of a room changed, such as changing a den to a guest room. All bedrooms are now required, in new construction, to have 5.7-square-foot openings with a minimum height of 24 inches and a minimum width of the clear opening, with the window in the open position, of 20 inches.
Now that you have processed that information, the key is “habitable” versus “non-habitable.” Your bathrooms, laundry room and kitchen are not habitable rooms and are not sleeping rooms. The windows in those non-habitable rooms do not have to comply, and need not be changed. Rooms like your dining area, living room and family room may have access to the outside by doors, so those windows do not need to be changed. This leaves the bedrooms, which may need to be changed, but if the area you are adding over your garage does not constitute 50 percent of the dwelling, the new windows need to be 5.7 square feet, but the ones in the old bedrooms do not. Appendix J allows for the existing windows to remain. Calculate the new areas and compare. Good luck!
© 2024 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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Aconcerning trend has emerged in Nassau County under the leadership of County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman and the Republican legislative majority. Their approach, which prioritizes headline-grabbing issues over effective governance, is already proving costly to county taxpayers.
Time and again, Blakeman has seized on controversial topics to push through laws that serve more to boost his political profile than to benefit the public. The Aug. 5 session of the Legislature is a prime example. During that session, an overly broad and likely unconstitutional ban on wearing face masks in public places was hurriedly passed.
My Democratic minority colleagues
and I support the intent behind restoring New York state’s mask legislation to prevent the use of masks by criminals. Any law we enact, however, must be constitutional, to ensure that it can withstand legal challenges and protect the public effectively. Despite the fact that we offered extensive feedback, our input was largely ignored, and a Democratic counterproposal — constitutionally sound and narrowly tailored to target criminals — was dismissed by the majority.
As a result, yet another poorly crafted law was added to the books when Blakeman signed it into law on Aug. 14. Another lawsuit, funded by Nassau taxpayers, is now almost certain.
This pattern of hasty, ill-considered legislation isn’t new. In June, the Republican majority passed, and Blakeman signed, a law barring transgender female athletes from using county
sports facilities. The law was immediately condemned as “blatantly illegal” by state Attorney General Letitia James, and criticized by advocates as a “solution in search of a problem.” Lawsuits quickly followed, and the county has already lost in court on procedural grounds, when Blakeman tried to institute the ban via executive order. I anticipate that the courts will strike down this law as well.
Blakeman’s approach to New York’s shift to evenyear local elections further illustrates the problem. In March 2023, before the proposed election system change was even enacted, he hired a law firm to explore suing the state. The contract, for $500,000, didn’t come before the Legislature until a year later, this March, long after the work had begun. This undermines the Legislature’s oversight role, and exposes how the legislative majority is treated as a rubber stamp rather than
a co-equal branch of government. Once again, taxpayer money is being funneled into a politically motivated legal battle. These legal distractions take attention away from pressing issues that the Blakeman administration is neglecting, such as the county’s aging infrastructure, its high cost of living and its broken assessment system. Despite promises to cut taxes and make the assessment system fair for all, these issues remain unresolved. The acting assessor continues in his role beyond the six-month interim period, without the required appointment by the Legislature, potentially compromising the legality of his actions and creating yet another legal risk for the county.
Leading Nassau County is a serious responsibility that requires the county executive’s full focus. It’s time for Blakeman to abandon these costly legal gambles and redirect resources toward addressing the real needs of our residents.
Debra Mulé represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District.
on June 28, the driver of a speeding SUV plowed into a Deer Park nail salon, killing four people, including off-duty NYPD officer Emilia Rennhack. Authorities say the driver of the car, a 64-yearold Dix Hills resident, was intoxicated, and had consumed 18 beers just the night before.
Sadly, this tragedy is not unique, as fatal traffic collisions involving intoxicated and impaired drivers have surged on Long Island since the coronavirus pandemic.
Last Aug. 7, an 18-year-old Freeport man was intoxicated when he raced through a red light in West Hempstead and crashed into a parked car, killing Katerine Vanges Hernandez just two days before her seventh birthday.
Just a day earlier, a 33-year-old man from Lindenhurst was under the influence of fentanyl and cocaine when he rocketed his car into a vehicle stopped at a traffic light. The violent collision killed U.S. Marine veteran Patrice Huntley, his 13-year-old daughter, Hannah, his 10-year-old son, Jeremiah, and, eventually, his 6-year-old step-granddaughter
Chantel, who succumbed to her injuries six days later. The driver reportedly reached a speed of 120 miles per hour, and failed to brake until a half-second before impact, hitting the Huntley family car at 95 mph.
Each of these tragedies was devastating, and perhaps even worse, they were all preventable. As news headlines remind us daily, families will have to live the rest of their lives with the physical, mental and emotional trauma and irreparable loss caused by someone else’s poor judgment.
U.S. changed significantly. Of the drivers who remained on the roads, some engaged in riskier behavior including speeding, failure to wear seat belts, and driving under the influence.”
A recent increase in fatalities on the road has been attributed to riskier driving.
According to a recent report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, the pandemic had a negative impact on traffic safety in New York. From 2019 to 2022, the report stated, the state saw a 45 percent increase in the number of fatalities involving drivers with blood alcohol levels above the legal limit, which is 12 percentage points above the national average. In 2022, about two-thirds of traffic fatalities in New York involved a combination of unsafe speeding and alcohol.
The recent increase in fatalities has been attributed to increased risks taken by drivers. Research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states, “After the declaration of the public health emergency in March 2020, driving patterns and behaviors in the
According to a recent Newsday report, lawmakers and safe-driving advocates are renewing calls to lower New York’s legal blood alcohol content level from 0.08 to 0.05 percent. But this policy change would place a disproportionate burden on law enforcement. Traffic stops, checkpoints and arrests have their place, but are just one piece of the traffic-safety puzzle.
The state Department of Motor Vehicles and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee could and should be doing more to promote programming and resources to ensure driver, pedestrian and road safety. Culturally, the DMV has been reduced to a bureaucratic, inconvenient, soulsucking entity, and appears to be divorced from proactive efforts to ensure safety on the roads.
For example, the DMV has an Impaired Driver Program available not only through court mandates, but to anyone who wants to join voluntarily. The IDP offers in-depth education on alcohol and other drugs to help participants identify and change high-risk behavior. The program needs to be better promot-
ed and advertised, and made more accessible.
Safe-driving advocates such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving are also calling for the widespread implementation of driver assistance, monitoring and alcohol-detection systems in vehicles across the U.S.
Driver-assistance technology enables a car to take action such as lane-keeping assistance and collision intervention. Driver monitoring systems include cameras or other sensors that monitor such things as eye movement without compromising privacy, advocates say. Alcohol-detection sensors in the vehicle determine whether a driver is drunk, keeping the public safe while ensuring privacy.
Many of these technologies are on the way, as the Biden administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 authorized the U.S. Department of Transportation to complete a rule-making process and issue final safety standards for impaired-driving-prevention technology on all new cars by November 2024.
No matter your preference or politics, it will take a comprehensive, all-handson-deck effort to ensure that more children and families are not harmed, and that the victims of these fatal collisions did not die in vain.
Karl A. Valere is chief of staff and senior policy adviser of Assemblyman Khaleel M. Anderson. He lives in Baldwin.
For years, Long Island’s seniors have faced a daunting challenge: the ever-rising cost of prescription medications. In a region where the cost of living already stretches many budgets to the breaking point, our elderly neighbors have often been forced to make impossible choices between their health and their financial stability. now, however, there is a ray of hope on the horizon for nassau and Suffolk counties’ substantial senior population.
The federal government’s recent announcement of negotiated prices for 10 commonly prescribed medications under Medicare marks a significant turning point. For Long Island, where nearly one in five residents is over age 65, this change promises real, tangible benefits.
Consider the impact on our community. The price of Eliquis, a blood thinner used by thousands of area seniors to prevent strokes, will be slashed by 56 percent. For a retiree on a fixed income, that could mean a savings of nearly $3,500 a year — money that can now go toward other essentials like food and utilities, or even small luxuries that improve quality of life.
Similarly, a 66 percent price reduction for Jardiance, a crucial medication for diabetes and heart failure, could be life-changing for many of our neighbors. With diabetes affecting a significant portion of the elderly population, this price cut could mean the difference between managing the condition effectively and facing severe health compli-
cations.
And the benefits extend beyond individual savings. By reducing the financial strain of medication costs, we may see improved adherence to prescribed treatment plans among our senior population. That could lead to better health outcomes, and potentially reduce the burden on our local health care systems, including hospitals like Mt. Sinai South nassau and northwell.
Moreover, these savings could have a ripple effect throughout our local economy. When our seniors have more disposable income, they’re more likely to patronize local businesses, contributing to the vitality of our communities.
It is crucial, however, to address the concerns raised by some about the potential impact on pharmaceutical innovation when the federal government steps in to negotiate drug prices. Critics argue that negotiated prices could stifle research and development, potentially depriving us of future breakthrough treatments.
While this concern is valid, it’s important to put it in perspective. The pharmaceutical industry remains highly profitable, with margins that far exceed most other sectors of the economy. Many breakthrough drugs have been developed with significant public funding through institutions like the national Institutes of Health. And the negotiated prices, while lower, will still provide these companies with substantial revenue.
Furthermore, we must weigh the hypothetical loss of future innovations
against the very real, immediate benefit to our community. For the senior you know who has been cutting pills in half to make them last longer, or the retiree next door who has been skipping doses to stretch their budget, these price reductions aren’t just numbers — they’re a lifeline.
Long Island has always valued innovation, but we also believe in taking care of our own. We can and should continue to support pharmaceutical research, but not at the cost of our seniors’ health and financial security.
As these new prices take effect in 2026, we encourage our senior readers to stay informed and discuss the changes with their health care providers. Those who are concerned about how lower prices might affect their medications can reach out to local resources like the nassau County Department of Human Services for guidance.
This step toward making medications more affordable isn’t just a win for our elderly population — it’s a win for all of us who believe in the promise of a compassionate, equitable health care system. It’s a reflection of our values as a community, showing that we prioritize the well-being of our neighbors over corporate profits.
So let’s continue to advocate for policies that benefit our local seniors while also supporting responsible innovation. Long Island has always found ways to balance progress with compassion, and this is one more opportunity for us to show what makes our community truly special.
Momalas — and more — unite
To the Editor:
Re Randi Kreiss’s column in the Aug. 8-14 issue, “Momalas for Kamala, a thread to unite us”: So many of us are also hoping that “all the disparate political identities will form a cohesive movement to elect (Kamala) Harris president,” as Ms. Kreiss writes.
In the meantime, I humbly add another “mini cell” to the body in case folks are unaware: Seniors for Harris, who, in the interest of protecting our Social Security and Medicare benefits, are holding regular Zoom calls.
JoSIE MARIno Lynbrook
Harris’s policies will ‘sink this country!’
To the Editor:
In “Momalas for Kamala,” Randi Kreiss listed a few
Costco, the popular warehouse retailer with multiple locations across Long Island, is making a significant change to its membership policy. As of the new update, customers will be required to scan the bar code or QR code associated with their membership cards at store entrances. Additionally, anyone entering a store must be accompanied by a valid member. For those whose membership cards lack a photo, a valid photo ID will also be required.
While this policy aims to enhance security and prevent misuse of Costco memberships, it also underscores a glaring double standard in our societal
debate about identification requirements. It is curious that the same individuals and media who criticize the necessity of showing an ID for voting, claiming it disenfranchises the poor and minorities, seem to accept — if not applaud — the stringent ID checks for entering a Costco.
sRequiring voter ID at polling stations can significantly reduce the potential for election fraud by ensuring that every voter is properly identified and eligible to vote. By implementing stringent ID requirements, election authorities can verify that the person casting a ballot is indeed a registered voter, and not someone attempting to vote a number of times or impersonate another voter. t his process helps to maintain the integrity of the electoral system, and ensures that each vote cast is legitimate, thus minimizing opportunities
of the groups that would support Kamala Harris in a kind of “political wave . . . a tsunami of relief and joy” that will push people to support her. Kreiss mentioned Black women for Kamala, White Dudes for Kamala, White Women for Kamala. A few groups obviously were not mentioned: Antisemites for Kamala, Defund the Police Crowd for Kamala, Open Border Supporters for Kamala, Pro-Hamas Rioters for Kamala, Antifa and BLM Rioters and Looters for Kamala.
Did I not mention the Free College, Health Insurance and Social Security for Illegals Crowd for Kamala? How about the Abortion Anywhere and Anytime Supporters for Kamala?
Yes, Randi. It’s a real tsunami of love and support for Kamala Harris that will sink this country!
ROBeRt KRALICK Glen Head
to the editor:
Nassau County passed a mask ban two weeks ago, just as everyone I know is getting Covid-19 again, and I have to wonder what we stand to gain from this. t here are people who have genuine reasons to wear masks to protect their health. I’m one of them. I have asthma, and I do not welcome the notion of being questioned by police for protecting myself from viruses that could destroy my quality of life. I do not trust anyone but my doctors to determine if my
for fraudulent activities.
trict rules at a warehouse retailer, but not at the voting booth?
Moreover, voter ID laws can reinforce public confidence in the electoral process. When citizens know that measures are in place to prevent cheating and maintain accurate voter rolls, they are more likely to trust the outcome of elections and participate in the democratic process. By keeping elections transparent and free from fraud, ID requirements contribute to a fairer, more reliable voting system, which upholds the principles of democracy and ensures that the voice of every legal voter is heard and counted.
t he argument against voter ID laws often hinges on the notion that requiring identification can marginalize those who face challenges in obtaining it. Yet these same critics accept and even support Costco’s decision to enforce stringent ID verification for its
customers.
t his discrepancy raises important questions about consistency and fairness. If we are willing to accept rigorous ID requirements for accessing membership-based services, such as shopping at Costco, should we not also consider the importance of ensuring that every citizen can exercise their fundamental right to vote without having that vote canceled out by the unvetted and the noncitizen, as well as extreme ballot harvesting and ballot dumping?
It is crucial for our public discourse to address these inconsistencies and work toward solutions that do not undermine the rights of lawful individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status. As we navigate these complex issues, let us strive for fairness and equality in all aspects of our public policies. Let the honest voices of our legal citizenry be heard and counted.
Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.
exemption is “legitimate,” and that’s not something I should need to worry about. the county mask legislation claims to have exemptions for religious and medical reasons, but it’s very unclear how that will be enforced. In America, we shouldn’t even be talking about enforcing rules for what people can wear. that is the very antithesis of freedom.
AMANDA MuLLeN Oceanside
to the editor:
Sixteen years ago, my daughter and her husband were trying to get pregnant for the first time, and after several years they had to use in vitro fertilization. After several rounds, we were blessed with a beautiful baby, my first grandchild. Without the science behind in vitro fertilization, my daughter would not have children, and I would not have had the joy of a grandson.
I recently learned that my congressman in the 4th District, Anthony D’esposito, is pushing an extreme agenda to restrict reproductive freedom. I cannot vote for him this November. Families deserve to be able to have children, and government needs to mind its own business! I will be voting for Laura Gillen for Congress this year, because she will support women’s rights for reproduction freedom.
WILLIAM YOuNGFeRt Franklin Square
The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale, New York
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