Oceanside/Island Park Herald 10-10-2024

Kiwanis Club to honor O’Side couple

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

In recognition of their dedication to youth basketball and commitment to the community,

about making a difference in the lives of young people.”

The Wassenberghs’ connection to basketball is a love story that started long before they became community leaders. Growing up just five blocks from one another in Rockaway Beach, their childhood was intertwined through their shared love of basketball. Both played for the same coach, Jimmy Walsh, who not only taught them the game but also instilled in them core values that would shape

“Coach Walsh emphasized hard work,” Frank shared, “you get better not just by playing, but through the grit of sons have stayed with us throughout

ated a fun, supportive environment with CYO basketball where every kid feels valued and loved. There were my sons coaches throughout the years and their dedication goes far beyond just coaching — they’re role models who truly care

somed during their time at St. Francis Prep High School, where they became high school sweethearts. Frank attended Molloy College while Beth went on to Bucknell University to play basketball. Though they briefly went their separate ways, their love for each other — and basketball — remained a constant. They married in 2004 and have lived in Oceanside for the past 19 years, raising their four children — Dylan, Logan, Lacey and Cooper — with the

Dr. Weisenreder will be presented with the award at the annual NYSPA conference on Oct. 17, honored for her role in shaping innovative mental

Oceanside/island park

HERALD

Books on the move

Four-year-old Eva Corvetti helped with the Oceanside Library Book Chain, as participants passed along the first 20 books that will restock the newly renovated library at 30 Davison Ave. Story, more photos, Page 10.

OHS psychologist earns state award

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Oceanside High School’s psychologist, Nina Weisenreder, was named the 2024 recipient of the Gil Trachtman Leadership in School Psychology Award by the New York State Psychological Association, last month, recognizing her contributions to the field of school psychology.

Dr. Weisenreder will be presented with the award at the annual NYSPA conference on Oct. 17, honored for her role in shaping innovative mental health programs that have greatly impacted the lives of students, families and staff in the Oceanside School District.

The award recognizes professionals who have made a significant impact on student mental

health, reflecting the values of collaboration, compassion and evidence-based practice.

Weisenreder’s leadership has been most visible in her coordination of the high school’s Wellness Center, where the focus is on promoting student mental health and wellness through psycho-educational initiatives and community-building activities. The center was created in response to growing concerns about student mental health in recent years, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic but noted even before it began. Under her guidance, it has become a hub for open conversations about mental health and has offered students help with managing

challenges.

“Social

Kiwanis Club to honor O’Side couple

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

In recognition of their dedication to youth basketball and commitment to the community, Frank and Beth Wassenbergh will be awarded the Kiwanis Club of Oceanside’s prestigious Heart of Gold Award for 2024 at the club’s installation dinner at Temple Avodah, 6: 30 p.m. on Oct. 17. Entry is $100 per person

The Wassenberghs, who are codirectors and coaches of St. Anthony’s CYO basketball program, have transformed the program into a thriving local institution and will be celebrated for their decades of service, leadership and passion for both basketball and their Oceanside community. Jeanine Badalamenti, a Kiwanis Club member and friend of the Wassenberghs suggested that they be nominated for this year’s award.

“Frank and Beth Wassenbergh have had such a positive impact on our community,” Badalementi said. “They’ve created a fun, supportive environment with CYO basketball where every kid feels valued and loved. There were my sons coaches throughout the years and their dedication goes far beyond just coaching — they’re role models who truly care

about making a difference in the lives of young people.”

The Wassenberghs’ connection to basketball is a love story that started long before they became community leaders. Growing up just five blocks from one another in Rockaway Beach, their childhood was intertwined through their shared love of basketball. Both played for the same coach, Jimmy Walsh, who not only taught them the game but also instilled in them core values that would shape their lives.

“Coach Walsh emphasized hard work,” Frank shared, “you get better not just by playing, but through the grit of practice. Those lessons have stayed with us throughout our lives.”

The couple’s friendship blossomed during their time at St. Francis Prep High School, where they became high school sweethearts. Frank attended Molloy College while Beth went on to Bucknell University to play basketball. Though they briefly went their separate ways, their love for each other — and basketball — remained a constant. They married in 2004 and have lived in Oceanside for the past 19 years, raising their four children — Dylan, Logan, Lacey and Cooper — with the

Tim Baker/Herald

A successful fire prevention day for O’Side

The Oceanside Fire Department held its annual Fire Prevention Day on Saturday, Oct. 5 at the Thomas Bettes Sr. Memorial Training Center. The event drew a large crowd of local residents eager to learn about fire safety and prevention.

Attendees were treated to live fire demonstrations, an auto extrication display, and a hands-on experience with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) through a maze setup. Children and families had the opportunity to tour a fire truck,

observe EMS demonstrations, and enjoy a display of antique fire engines.

In addition to the educational activities, food and ice cream trucks were on site, and the pumpkin patch with decorating stations provided a fun seasonal activity for the kids. The event helped reinforce the importance of fire safety in the community.

–Kepherd Daniel

Maureen Lennon/Herald photos

The Oceanside Fire Department Prevention Day saw demonstrations like cutting off all the doors and roof of a vehicle in the event of a fire.

Captain Jonathan Brooks demonstrate several different procedures of the Epinephrine pens to the young inquisitive children.

The Fire Department showed how they put out car fires in a red hot demonstration that captivated all in attendance.

Fireman Devin McLarney inside the Fire Department burning building demonstration. Willow Colon,3, future female fire chief.

Sailors’ Skill Cove a game changer in O’Side

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Oceanside School District recently marked the grand opening of a learning space at School Four that is set to redefine special education in the district.

The Sailors’ Skill Cove, a fully functional living space designed to teach essential daily living skills, was unveiled in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 26.

The classroom, which resembles a studio apartment, includes a bedroom, kitchen, and laundry area where students can practice tasks like making a bed, folding laundry, and preparing meals.

The space will serve as a hands-on learning environment for students with special needs, equipping them with skills for independence at an early age.

The inspiration behind the project, according to Special Education Coordinator Tracy Murray, is the daily need for students to practice and master real-life tasks in a realistic environment.

“We’re preparing our students to contribute to their households and communities,” Murray said. “What better way to do that than by providing them with a place where they can practice essential skills, like doing laundry and cooking, in a controlled, supportive setting?”

The concept for Sailors’ Skill Cove began to take shape last spring, with construction officially starting in December. The idea was inspired by a similar project in the Franklin Square School District.

“We saw something like this and knew immediately that it would be incredibly beneficial for our students,” said Jaclyn Graham, Principal of School Four. “By giving students the opportunity to develop these skills at the elementary level, they are better prepared for middle school and high school, where vocational training and life skills continue to be a focus.”

Two educators, Jamie Martinez and Laura Moriarty, played pivotal roles in bringing Sailors’ Skill Cove to life and took on the task of designing the space and

developing a curriculum.

The curriculum includes task-based learning, such as making a bed, setting the table, and sorting laundry. Each task is accompanied by a detailed set of instructions, and student progress will be closely monitored through data collection, enabling teachers to tailor instruction based on individual needs.

The focus on data-driven instruction is a hallmark

of the district’s approach to special education.

“We are very data heavy,” Murray said. “We don’t collect data just for the sake of it. We use it to drive our instruction and ensure progress for each student. It allows us to see where adjustments need to be made in order to maximize success.”

One of the key goals of Sailors’ Skill Cove is fostering an inclusive environment.

While it is primarily designed for special education students, the space will also be used by general education students.

“We plan to schedule regular visits from our general education students so they can engage in activities alongside our special education students,” explained Murray. “This fosters an inclusive environment where all students learn and grow together, which is something we strive to achieve throughout the district.”

Students will visit the space regularly as part of their curriculum. “It’s important that they have repeated exposure to these tasks to ensure skill development,” added Graham. “This space offers them the opportunity to develop those skills in a safe, supportive environment that closely mirrors what they’ll experience at home.”

One student, Kadin, demonstrated his mastery of the skills during the ribbon-cutting, earning praise for setting the table and sorting household items into bins. His efforts showed the potential that Sailors’ Skill Cove holds for its students.

The district has long been committed to ensuring that its students are prepared for life beyond the classroom. While the middle and high schools emphasize job training, Sailors’ Skill Cove focuses on foundational life skills.

“It’s amazing to see this kind of initiative at the elementary level,” said Murray. “We’re giving our students the time they need to develop these skills. Progress might not be fast, but by starting early, we’re ensuring they have the best possible chance to live independently as adults.”

Courtesy Oceanside School District School Board trustee Laura Lisi cuts the ribbon on School Four’s new life skills classroom, Sailors’ Skill Cove, while superintendent of schools Phyllis Harrington stands by.

Kadin sets the table at School Four’s Sailors’ Skill Cove, a new life skills classroom..

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

D’Esposito may face ethics probe over hirings

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

U.S. Representative Anthony D’Esposito may have violated ethics rules in Congress, designed to combat nepotism and corruption, according to a story published by the New York Times on Sept. 23.

Shortly after taking the oath of office in 2023, D’Esposito hired his longtime fiancé’s daughter to work as a special assistant in his district office, where she earned $3,800 a month, according to payroll records. In April, D’Esposito hired an alleged mistress, Devin Faas, who earned $2,000 a month for a part-time job in the same district office. Payments to both women stopped in July 2023, the Times reported.

D’Esposito has not been accused of wrongdoing, but the employment of both women, which resulted in a payment of about $29,000 in taxpayer funds, could lead to disciplinary actions in the House of Representatives, according to the Times.

Integrity and Gratitude

If we had to choose only two concepts as a prescription for a good life, they would be integrity and gratitude. While we usually associate integrity with honesty, the word also means “fits together” as in integrated or integration. Oddly enough, both meanings are also interrelated. When someone is honest, their life tends to “fit together”. It works. As one sage put it, if you’re honest you never have to remember what you said. People who have integrity are consistent. You can count on them. Wikipedia says “the word integrity evolved from the Latin adjective ‘integer’ meaning whole or complete. In this context, integrity is the inner sense of ‘wholeness’ deriving from qualities such as honesty and consistency of character.”

If you or someone you know finds their life is “not working” there may be a lack of integrity somewhere that needs to be sought after and rooted out.

Gratitude has to do with appreciation. Appreciation means to add value to. Things that appreciate tend to grow, just as being

grateful for something or someone raises its or their value in our estimation. Even though, at any given time, countless more things are going right than going wrong in most of our lives, too many of us focus more on what’s going wrong and take for granted what’s going right — our health, our loved ones, our resources.

Grateful people tend to be giving people —and giving people are the happiest among us. Takers can never be as happy as givers because takers can never get enough. Givers already have more than enough, which is why they have some to give away. But having enough is not a state of fact, it is a state of mind. Once you can cultivate that state of mind you are on your way to a happy life.

One of the best ways to rewire your brain from focusing on the negative to focusing on the positive, is to keep a “Gratitude Journal”, examples of which may be easily googled.

The elusive “holy grail” of being happy can be found by cultivating integrity and gratitude in your life.

The allegations against D’Esposito come about 6-weeks ahead of Election Day. D’Esposito is being challenged by Democrat Laura Gillen, who he defeated two years ago. Early voting starts on Oct. 26. Election Day is Nov. 5.

“These are very serious allegations that demand further investigation and it’s clear that Anthony D’Esposito has abused his power in every position of trust he’s ever held,” Gillen said in a statement released by her press team on Tuesday. “As Hempstead Town Supervisor, I fought against corruption, nepotism and waste to help all Nassau County families, and I’ll bring that same common sense, ethical leadership to Congress. Together we can clean up the deep-seated corruption that clearly surrounds Anthony D’Esposito and restore transparency and accountability to New York’s Fourth Congressional District.”

According to the House’s Code of Official Conduct, “a member, delegate or resident commissioner may not retain the relative of such individual in a paid position, and an employee of the

House may not accept compensation for work for a committee on which the relative of such employees serves as a member. The House defines “relative” as someone related to the member, delegate or resident commissioner, including a parent, child, sibling, parent’s sibling, first cousin, sibling’s child, spouse, parent-in-law, child-in-law, sibling-in-law, stepparent, stepchild, stepsibling, halfsibling, or grandchild.

According to the Times, Matt Capp, a spokesperson for D’Esposito, did not deny that the congressman had a relationship with Faas, but declined to comment on the employment of either women.

In a statement shared with News12, D’Esposito said “My personal life has never interfered with my ability to deliver results for New York’s fourth district, and I have upheld the highest ethical standards of personal conduct.

“Voters deserve better than the Times’ gutter politics,” he added.

■ 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:

&

Herald File Photo

U.S. Representative Anthony D’Esposito may have violated ethics rules according to a, the New York Times report.

“The

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown

Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project. psegliny.com/EcoDev

NASSIR EDWARDS

Elmont Senior Football

A MAJOR PART of Elmont’s run to the Nassau and Long Island boys’ basketball championships last winter, Edwards is also one of the county’s top football wide receivers. Although he didn’t have a catch Sept. 28 in a driving rainstorm against Lynbrook, he did more than his share of damage on the defensive side of the ball. Edwards had a 40-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown and a 70-yard interception return for a score to lead an 18-7 victory.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, Oct. 10

Football: V.S. North at Floral Park 2 p.m.

Football: MacArthur at Carey 2:15 p.m.

Football: Jericho at Mepham 2:15 p.m.

Football: Sewanhaka at Calhoun 2:15 p.m.

Football: South Side at Garden City 3 p.m.

Football: Plainedge at Wantagh 3 p.m.

Football: Kennedy at Lynbrook 4:30 p.m.

Football: New Hyde Park at Long Beach 4:30 p.m.

Football: Roosevelt at Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

Football: Malverne at Lawrence 4:30 p.m.

Football: East Meadow at Hempstead 4:30 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Hicksville at Freeport 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Lawrence at Plainedge 5 p.m.

Boys Soccer: Syosset at Uniondale 5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Oceanside at MacArthur 5 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Malv/East Rockaway at Lynbrook 5:30 p.m.

Football: Elmont at Manhasset 6:30 p.m.

Football: Herricks at V.S. Central 6:45 p.m.

Girls Soccer: Seaford at Plainedge 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Wantagh at Long Beach 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Mepham at Lynbrook 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Mineola at South Side 6:45 p.m.

Boys Volleyball: Calhoun at Roslyn 6:45 p.m.

Girls Volleyball: Plainedge at MacArthur 6:45 p.m.

Football: East Rockaway at Island Trees 7 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Oceanside riding hot streak

By GARRETT D. URIBE sports@liherald.com

Something strange was afoot - a solemn silence pervading the bus as Oceanside’s girls’ soccer team traveled to face its unbeaten nemesis.

First-year coach Daniela Chiera, a former Sailors girls’ soccer assistant coach, knew immediately what it meant.

Leigha Zaman’s last-minute goal to tie against MacArthur four days priorstopping Oceanside’s two-game slide in Super Conference AAA/AA1 - had sparked a change in her team’s mindset and modus operandi. Gone was the usual upbeat music. Chatter and busride frivolity had ceased. Hurtling towards first-place Garden City, Sept. 20, the Sailors were all business.

“The girls were zoned in,” Chiera said. “Coming off of that MacArthur game, where they found a way to rally and tie, they were motivated to go against the conference’s number one team, who was undefeated, and bring an attack mentality.”

Amid a flurry of Sailors shots on goal (a then season-high 17), Kaylin Harrington’s found the back of the Trojans’ net, and it would prove sufficient, as Oceanside’s defense dealt the first in a string of three shutouts to down Garden City 1-0 – starting what has grown, at Herald press time, into a season-high four-game win streak.

“Leigha really started something, scoring that tying goal,” Chiera said of the All-County senior who was injured Sept. 27 in Oceanside’s 3-0 home win against Calhoun; bound for Marist College (Poughkeepsie) on a lacrosse scholarship, Zaman finishes the season with an assist and three goals – none more important than her line-in-the-sand tally in mid-September.

“After that, the girls made a decision, as a team, to give it everything going forward, and they’ve done it,” said Chiera, whose club (5-3-2, 5-2-2 in AAA/ AA1) sits a game and half behind league leader Garden City after blanking reigning county Class AAA champ Massapequa 2-0 on Sept. 25, Calhoun 3-0 Sept.

has done plenty of celebrating so far under first-year coach

and seed the No. 1 seed in Nassau Class AAA.

27, and sending Syosset to a 3-1 defeat Oct. 1.

The team points leader after a pair of goals at Syosset, Samantha Gemmo (four goals, four assists) has paced the Sailors along with fellow senior Vanessa Frangiadakis, whose five goals lead the squad. Danniella Cairo (four assists) and Ava Bowers (two goals, four assists) share the Sailors assist lead with Gemmo, each member of the trio tied for fifth in the conference.

Coinciding with the club’s newly invigorated attack, Oceanside’s defense, led by Cairo, Savannah Castoro and first-year goalie Julianna Ewashko (63 saves), has put on a fiercer face in recent weeks, allowing one goal in its past four games, two in its past five

going back to MacArthur – a sharp drop from the eight allowed in its opening five contests.

Helping to kick off Oceanside’s roll, Ewashko notched a season-high 12 saves at Garden City.

“Julianna’s confidence and soccer IQ have improved game to game,” Chiera said. “It’s really what keeps her and the back four together as one unit to deny goals. Our back four are very smart, and they’re on an amazing run.”

Added Chiera: “I’m proud of this whole team. It’s remarkable that they’ve gotten attention by showing what they’re capable of. There’s still more fight in them, and I know they’ll keep fighting for every last bit, working to get that top seed.”

Ross Farber/Herald

Oceanside

Daniela Chiera

O’Side High’s Wellness Center is a bright spot

managing stress, and that’s what we strive to foster here at the Wellness Center,” Weisenreder said. “We offer an open space where students can gather, talk openly, and find coping strategies that work for them. The focus is on creating an inclusive community that reduces stigma around mental health and offers students practical support.”

One unique aspect of the center is its universal approach. Unlike traditional counseling, which often involves one-onone sessions, the center is open to all students, providing them with a safe space to explore wellness topics during free periods or lunch breaks. They are invited to take part in a variety of activities, from discussions of coping with anxiety and stress to art projects that promote positive mental health.

Last year, the center partnered with the Oceanside Library to give English as a New Language students library cards and introduce them to resources specifically tailored to English learners. Weisenreder’s work has been ahead of the curve in identifying and addressing students’ mental health concerns. She noted that the challenges of social isolation, heightened by technology and social media, were affecting students well before Covid-19 spread. But the pandemic served as a tipping point,she said, amplifying those issues and making the need for comprehensive mental health support all the

Weisenreder, Phyllis Harrington and Tracy Murray.

more urgent.

“We were already seeing trends toward more social isolation and disconnection, and those are key factors that contribute to mental health struggles, especially for teenagers,” she said. “With the rise of social media and 24-hour news cycles, students are often overwhelmed by information, much of which is anxiety-inducing. It’s important that we teach them how to filter what they can control from what they can’t.”

This understanding has informed much of the programming at the Wellness Center. Weisenreder and her team emphasize coping strategies that encour-

ANNIVERSARY

age students to focus on what they can control, rather than becoming consumed by abstract or far-removed worries. They also encourage them to pursue hobbies and interests that promote mental wellness.

One of the key factors in the success of the center, Weisenreder said, is the overwhelming support she has received from the school district administration. She credits Oceanside High Principal Brendon Mitchell, as well as the district’s associate principals, academic directors and central administration, for encouraging innovation and providing the necessary resources to build a robust mental health

program.

“We are fortunate to have leaders who support trying new things, taking risks, and always putting our students’ wellbeing first,” Weisenreder said. “Our Wellness Center would not be what it is today without the collaboration of excellent teachers, staff, and our administration. Together we’re pooling our knowledge and resources to set our students up for success, both academically and emotionally.”

She also highlighted the importance of collaboration with her colleagues in Pupil Personnel Services, who include school counselors, social workers and psychologists. “While not every school may have the capacity to build a full-time Wellness Center with dedicated staff, there are elements that can be replicated,” she said. “Whether it’s creating a space for students to connect, promoting hobbies, or offering psychoeducational materials, every school can take steps to support student wellness.”

As Weisenreder prepares to accept the Trachtman Award, she remains focused on continuing to build on the success of the Wellness Center and expanding its impact. For her, there is always more that can be done to support students’ mental health and well-being.

“Oceanside is a special place,” she said. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work here, and I look forward to what we can accomplish next.”

The Hal Knopf Team Your Local Real Estate Experts

Celebrating 10 years of serving our community as The Safe Center!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024

Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, NY

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS COST $250 SPONSORSHIPS AND TICKET PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

If you are unable to join us, please consider making a donation in honor of our 10th Anniversary!

Scan QR code, visit TSCLIGala.org, or call 516.465.4774 to donate or purchase tickets.

You need a powerful partner to make sense of the complexities. Navigating today’s housing market?

Courtesy Oceanside School District

Oceanside School administrators gathered to celebrate school psychologist Nina Weisenreder’s leadership award. From left were Brendon Mitchell, Diane Provvido, Kristin Lamparello,

Bynoe aims to use her experience in Albany

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

When Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe announced her campaign for the seat in the 6th State Senate District last December, she highlighted her decades of work in Mineola and emphasized that there is still more work to be done across the state.

During her visit to the Herald for a Roundtable session, Bynoe, 56, reflected on her time as a public servant — a path inspired by her parents, who were dedicated to serving their community.

“I believe that my parents, the way they raised my sister and I, it was to really do hard work,” she said. “They were public servants themselves, and they taught us the value of always making sure you work to make wherever you live or work a better place.”

Before becoming the legislator for District 2, Bynoe built a foundation in public service as commissioner of the North Hempstead Housing Authority, to which she was appointed by the North Hempstead Town Council in 2008. The Westbury native was elected to the Westbury Board of Education in 2010, where she served two terms and focused on educational policies. In 2014, she was elected to the County Legislature in a special election.

Despite being in the minority in Mineola, Bynoe said that many of the things she has accomplished — including the passage of the Ground Water and Public Supply Facts Report Law and implementation of police body cameras — could be advanced to the state agenda if she were elected to the Senate.

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald Nassau County Legislator Siela Bynoe is running for State Senate in the 6th District. With many years of public service, she wants to be a voice for all Long Islanders.

ly for folks who we want to ensure have access to health care; they could be right on the campus.”

On the topic of mental and behavioral health, Bynoe is a strong advocate of increasing access to mental health resources, a pressing issue in today’s society. In Mineola, she successfully passed legislation to conduct a study and recommend alternative police responses to calls about mental health crises.

Earlier this year, Baldwin Middle School unveiled an in-house wellness center on its campus. Asked if she would push for more in-house facilities at schools, Bynoe said that she would, in a thoughtful way.

“We should go to those community organizations, including schools, that can host those types of facilities on their campuses and have folks that are already doing the work, fund them, and go in and talk to the young people,” she said.

With years of experience in the legislature, Bynoe aims to be the voice for Long Island residents in Albany if she is elected, addressing their concerns and striving for balance.

“We need to turn the corner — it’s a public-benefit hospital that provides Trauma One care, and we have tons of people within the Senate district that rely on that hospital,” Bynoe said. “There are opportunities there for senior housing, workforce housing, especial-

Her top priority in Albany would be to preserve public benefits and resources like Nassau University Medical Center, which was on the brink of a financial collapse earlier this year. Another priority is the need for housing, particularly the potential for residential development on the NUMC campus.

“Making sure that we have a voice — a strong voice in the Senate that really has a pulse on the issues and the concerns of Long Islanders,” she said. “I also want to go to Albany to bring some balance and make sure that, despite the fact that we have fewer members, we are equally as important, and our issues need to be addressed.”

Montefinise targets rising crime, economy

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The 6th State Senate District hasn’t had a Republican representative since 2018 — when then Sen. Kemp Hannon had occupied the seat for 29 years — but Thomas Montefinise aims to change that in November.

Montefinise, an Oceanside native, graduated from Oceanside High School, and then went to Nassau Community College before transferring to Hofstra University, where he earned a degree in history. He went on to finish a law degree at CUNY School of Law.

He has had a diverse career, with jobs ranging from repairing commercial kitchen equipment at a friend’s business to managing municipal contracts and real estate matters at the Nassau County attorney’s office. He has also practiced matrimonial, family and criminal law.

One of the key issues Montefinise is campaigning on is the rising crime that he says is affecting his neighborhood and communities across Long Island. He is particularly critical of the state’s bail reform law, which allows those charged with misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies to be released while awaiting their court dates.

“There’s a lot of crazy stuff that I see going on,” Montefinise said at a recent Herald Roundtable. “Bail reform, cashless bail — I mean, I represented criminal defendants, and everybody deserves to have their stories heard. (But) there’s a process. Everybody deserves a day in court, but you also need to give the tools to the prosecutors and police to be able to get their job done, because if people start feeling like they can’t call the police to help them, and feel like they can’t rely on the prosecutor to protect them, the system falls apart.”

Also on next month’s ballot is a proposed amendment to the state Constitution that would ban discrimination based on many types of discrimination, including age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

Montefinise said he read through the proposition once, and based his understanding on his law school education.

“I do think that there are legitimate reasons, sometimes, to make a categorization based on sex and gender,” he said. “This is based on the way I’ve been reading it, and kind of where I think they’re heading. They’re trying to elevate that to strict scrutiny, (and) strict scrutiny means no classification can ever be made.”

Montefinise said he was also concerned about the state of middle-class people living on Long Island, and described them as being “squeezed out.”

“I think one of the major things that we need to look at is making sure that we don’t increase spending and we reallocate spending,” he said. “We need to look at where the dead weight is. Where are we throwing money?”

He used the ongoing influx of migrants as an example.

“We need to raise and be able to lift up wages, and be able to incentivize programs,” Montefinise said. “That’s really what we need to do. We have to reallocate money. I think what we’re doing is we’re cutting money, and we’re spending it in all the wrong places.”

Engaging with constituents is essential for anyone running for public office, and Montefinise noted that he has been actively listening to district residents who share their concerns and needs, a process that has been new territory for him.

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald Thomas Montefinise is running on the Republican ticket for the seat in the 6th State Senate District, currently held by Democrat Kevin Thomas, who is not seeking re-election after serving since 2019.

“I’ve met a lot of people,” he said. “I’ve never done something like this before, but I’ve been hearing about the economy, prices of goods, inflation, and safety. It’s been an awesome experience.”

Wassenberghs to be honored for CYO work

same values they hold dear.

When the couple took the reins of the St. Anthony’s CYO basketball program in 2016, it was in the midst of a rebuilding phase. The previous director, James O’Donohue, had revitalized the program, but it was still in its early stages. The Wassenberghs saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact by focusing on youth development, not just through the game of basketball but by instilling life lessons in the children who participated.

“When we took over, the program had around a dozen teams,” Frank recalled. “We wanted to get the kids involved at a younger age, so we introduced a third-grade intramural program and a fourth-grade clinic to teach them basic fundamentals.”

Their efforts paid off, as the program now boasts nearly 30 teams with more than 300 boys and girls participating — the maximum capacity for the program. The program includes grades 3 to 12. The Wassenberghs have also expanded the program to include a men’s “Almost Over the Hill” team and, this year, a new high school boys’ intramural program.

The St. Anthony’s gym, which has undergone continuous renovations thanks to fundraising efforts, has become a place of pride for the community.

“It’s one of our biggest sources of joy,” Frank said. “Seeing kids around town wearing their St. Anthony’s gear makes all the hard work worth it.”

Under the couple’s leadership, the program emphasizes key mottos: “Play hard, play smart and play together” for teamwork, and “Be humble enough to be coachable but confident enough to dominate your position” for personal growth. These mottos reflect their belief that basketball is more than just a game — it’s a vehicle for teaching life skills.

The couple has made a conscious decision to avoid

creating teams based on skill level. Instead, they split the teams evenly, allowing weaker players to learn from stronger ones. This approach fosters camaraderie, growth and excitement among all players, regardless of their experience or skill level.

“We’ve found that this method works for us,” Frank said. “The weaker kids get to see what they can achieve, and the stronger players take on leadership roles, helping their teammates grow.”

All four of the Wassenbergh children have participated in some way in the basketball program, whether as players or by helping run clinics, camps and fundraisers. Their son, Logan, in particular, stands out for his dedication, having received the CYO Role Model Award two years ago —the youngest ever to be honored with the distinction.

“Our kids are very much a part of what we do,” Frank said. “It’s exciting for them, and it’s exciting for us to watch them grow and give back to the community through the sport we all love.”

Frank credited Beth’s exceptional organizational skills for keeping everything running smoothly.

“Beth is the behind-the-scenes force,” he said. “She handles the uniforms, rosters and scheduling, while I’m the forward-facing person. Together, we’ve found a balance that works.

“We love creating something that the kids, and the community, can be proud of,” he added. “It’s self-motivating when you see the excitement in the kids and the impact on the community.”

With the expansion of their program into new initiatives like the high school boys’ intramural league, the Wassenberghs are continually looking for ways to grow and improve. However, they are mindful of their capacity, given the limitations of their facilities.

“We’re at the max of what the gym can handle, but we’ll continue to improve it and make it a place the community can be proud of,” Frank said.

As they prepare to accept the Kiwanis Club’s Heart of Gold Award, the Wassenberghs remain humble about their accomplishments.

“We’re just excited to keep giving back to the community,” Frank said. “Basketball has given us so much, and we want to pass those lessons on to the next generation.”

Run or Walk

Courtesy Maria Heller

Frank and Beth Wassenbergh will be honored for their efforts in transforming CYO Basketball at St. Anthony’s in Oceanside.

Book Chain moves books to new Library

The Oceanside Library hosted a “Book Chain” event, on Oct.6 drawing several hundred community members who lined up to form a human chain from the temporary library space to the newly completed building at 30 Davison Avenue.

The event was designed to move the first 20 books back to the new library, from the temporary site at the Lincoln Shopping Center. Participants created a long chain extending to the new building, cheerfully passing the books along the line.

The large turnout saw various community groups, such as the Girl Scouts and PTA, joining in to help.

The chain began stepping off at 11 a.m., and Oceanside Library staff expressed their gratitude to all who attended, emphasizing the community’s unity and support for the library’s growth and development.

The renovated Library will open on Oct. 27.

–Kepherd Daniel

Tim Baker/Herald photos

The Oceanside community got together for a special chain that saw the first 20 books passed down to the newly renovated Library on 30 Davison Avenue.

The Oceanside Library staff got together at the new location and the Oceanside community will soon see all the work that was done in less than three weeks.

Oceanside girl scout troop 2075 was excited to join in the Library book chain.

Teen Librarian Barbara Mickowski, Lead of Patron Experience Michael Ambrosio and patron Charlie Lees moved the books to their new home.

STEPPING OUT

Fl!ppin’ out at the circus

It’s all a thrill with daredevils under the Big Top

By Danielle Schwab

The Big Top has sprung up on Long Island once again for a Fl!p Circus spectacular that brings audiences up close to the action.

The circus spectacle, which wowed audiences here earlier in the spring, brings its intimate Big Top experience back, now through Oct. 15, to Hicksville’s Broadway Commons.

Fl!p Circus was started by the Vazquez family, a long line of circus performers dating back over 50 years. Its older counterpart, the Circus Vazquez, originated in Mexico City in 1969 and has since ventured to the U.S.

While Circus Vazquez has one of the largest tents in America, Fl!p Circus has one of the smallest with around 800 seats. It brings a refreshing, more intimate look at the circus experience with no seat more than 50 feet from the ring.

“It makes it very different and very unique. We wanted to create a show that appealed more to the traditional side of the circus,” says Alexa Vazquez, a fourth-generation performer.

• Now through Oct. 15

• Weekdays, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 1 and 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m.

• Tickets start at $50 adult, $30 children; available at flipcircus.com or can be purchased in person at box office

• Broadway Commons, 358 N. Broadway, Hicksville

“The seats are made for a 360-degree view, so wherever you’re sitting, you’re getting the best view. You feel like a part of the performance,” she continues.

Training since she was 15, Vazquez showcases her acrobatic skills in her mesmerizing Hula Hoop gymnastics act. She weaves various hoops together simultaneously, including a giant hoop, the Cyr Wheel.

“It’s something where, if you lose concentration very quickly, it can go very wrong,” Vazquez explains.

“But at the same time it’s fun because people see a gigantic wheel, but then they see a smaller one. It’s confusing for them, but fun at the same time.”

Fl!p Circus takes traditional acts and gives them a contemporary twist with — in the grand circus tradition — an international flair. Jugglers, trapeze artists and daredevils from throughout the world — including Brazil, India, Chile, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and the U.S. — live and travel together from location to location.

That global flavor is led by Brazil’s favorite clown, Bubi Guiner, who brings his classic comedic routines and side-splitting antics to the U.S. for the first time. He may even invite you on stage as part of the show.

From India, watch as Hasan Ansari thrills audiences with his flexibility, performing body-bending maneuvers on a wooden pole, leaving you wondering how a human body can do that. Ukraine’s Anastasia & Misha present a stunningly synchronized and poetic presentation of dance and acrobatics. Also Pavel Valla Bertini, a fifth-generation performer from the Czech Republic, keeps everyone on the edge of their seats

with his unparalleled one, three and even 15-wheeled unicycle skills.

Others delight audiences with their fast-paced juggling skills, energetic roller skating feats, graceful dancing and acrobatics.

There’s always something new to enjoy, no matter how many times you go, according to Vasquez.

“Every year that it comes to town, you’re going to see a different show,” she says.

Every act brings a different culture to the stage. Each is accompanied by a special musical score, played by the Fl!p Circus Band. The versatile soundtrack ranges from classic instrumental to upbeat rock.

“I always like to say, with Flip to expect the unexpected,” says Vazquez. “As you walk into the stands — (with) the music, the lights, and the way the atmosphere is set — you’re inside a different world, and it’s something that you have to experience yourself.”

And, of course, there’s an assortment of tasty circus treats to munch on from the concession stand.

Capturing over 200 years of circus tradition into high-energy show, Fl!p Circus invites everyone to immerse themselves in the experience.

“We just want the audience to enjoy the show, and we want them to be transformed into what we’re doing,” says Vasquez. “We want the audience, when they come in, to feel welcome, to feel like they’re a part of the family.”

Tom Colicchio on ‘why he cooks’

Get an unprecedented insights into the life of one of America’s top chefs when Tom Colicchio brings his “Why I Cook” book tour to the Paramount stage. Part memoir-part cookbook, Colicchio’s newest book shares an exclusive look inside the mind and kitchen of the beloved multiple-Awardwinning chef, restaurateur, and television personality. Colicchio cooked his first recipe at 13-yearsold — a stuffed eggplant from an issue of Cuisine magazine that he picked up out of boredom — and it changed his life. Through 10 memoir chapters and 60 recipes, “Why I Cook” shares Colicchio’s personal reflections of more than 40 years behind the stove. From pre-dawn fishing excursions with his grandfather to running the flat-top at the snack shack of the local swim club, to finding his way as a young chef in New York City, into Tom’s life yet.

Saturday, Oct. 12, 2 p.m.$95, $65, $54, $35. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Anthony Pascal and Anthony Rapp

Get ready to be swept away with Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, the original stars of “Rent.” Their enduring friendship, spanning three decades, forms the heart and soul of this duo show, promising an evening filled with music, anecdotes and laughter. Pascal and Rapp’s friendship and history create an unforgettable evening of music, stories and fun. Expect songs from highlights throughout their careers, music that has influenced their lives, and of course some of the iconic hits from where it all began — meeting on the stage of “Rent.” Jonathan Larson’s iconic show, remains an international phenomenon, contuing a trajectory that began with it’s Off-Broadway opening all those years ago.

Thursday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. $69, $64, $54. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Visit landmarkonmainstreet.org for tickets and information, or call (516) 7676444.

Photos courtesy Fl!p Circus

Modern yet vintage describes the Fl!p Circus experience.

THE Your Neighborhood

Oct. 19

Steve Martin and Martin Short

Icons, collaborators and dos amigos Steve Martin and Martin Short have a relationship that’s evolved in unexpected ways since their SNL days. Their comic prowess has surely reached new heights since their involvement in Hulu’s smash hit “Only Murders in the Building.” The pair takes another comic turn as special guest performers at Tilles Center’s 2024 Gala, Saturday, oct. 19, 8:30 p.m. These two funnyman display their impeccable talents as “The Dukes of Funnytown!” — a show that redefines the form in unexpected and profound ways, from two of the most influential and acclaimed talents of the past century. Their humor is often subversive, but it is always a joyous self-deprecating romp from two comedy masters driven to make each other laugh as much as the audience. The jokes come at you at a rapid-fire pace with little set-up and big punch lines as they mock Hollywood and the fickle nature of celebrity, but the comedy truly soars when they lovingly (and relentlessly) roast each other. Martin and Short’s chemistry and timing on stage reflects a friendship forged over three decades which developed when they met for the first time on the set of the 1986 film “Three Amigos.” These two titans of comedy have been touring together since 2015, when they launched their first live show entitled “A Very Stupid Conversation.” Tickets start at $70. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

‘The Birthday Party’

Looking for something to do this Halloween season that isn’t just for kids? Visit Sands Point Preserve for an exclusive, immersive theatrical production, “The Birthday Party,” held in a secluded, opulent mansion, Saturday, oct. 12, 7-8:30 p.m. and 9-10:30 p.m.; also oct. 18-19, oct. 25, oct. 31, and Nov. 1. For those who attended Archie’s last “Birthday Party,” rest assured, there are new surprises in store.

Guests will be blindfolded and escorted to a secret location on the property, Villa Vanitas, to celebrate the enigmatic Lord Archibald Axel Von Finkelshorn Chatterton’s 30th birthday. He is a witless charmer on the cusp of a life-changing revelation, and everyone’s invited to witness his journey on a night that promises to be unforgettable and delightfully unpredictable. Cocktail attire preferred. $175 per person. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901.

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.

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, Oct. 12, 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.

Food Fest

Sacred Heart Parish Center hosts a community food tasting event, Sunday, Oct. 20, starting at 6 p.m. Attendees have the opportunity to sample a variety of dishes from local restaurants and food establishments. Advance ticket purchase is required. $25 per adult and $5 for children under 10 years. With a 50/50 raffle and basket raffles. 301 Long Beach Road, Island Park. For more information, call (516) 431-7877 or visit sacredheartislandpark. com.

Oct. 20

Tribute concert

Plaza Theatricals’ tribute series continues, Sunday, Oct 20, 2:30 p.m., with Shades of Grey. From his best-remembered role as the iconic Master of Ceremonies in “Cabaret,”both on Broadway and in the film version, to his more recent portrayal as the Wizard of Oz in “Wicked,” Joel Grey continues to entertain audiences of all ages. And now, continuing his own tradition of creating unique and memorable performances, Bob Spiotto takes to the boards once again, in both story and song, to educate and entertain, as he pays tribute to this legendary performer. See the concert at 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $40, $35 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Having an event?

Adelphi’s Best of Broadway: Decades

Jump into the dazzling world of Broadway as Adelphi’s talented students bring to life the magic of shows that opened 10, 20, 30 or more years ago, Sunday, Oct. 20, 4 p.m. Enjoy modern and classic Broadway hits from shows like “Suffs” (2024); “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” (2014); “Sunday in the Park with George” (1984) and “Anything Goes” (1934). Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

Grand Opening Ceremony

Celebrate the grand opening of the renovated Oceanside Library, Sunday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m. The ceremony includes speeches, a ribbon cutting, and the dedication of a 50year time capsule, donated by the Friends of the Oceanside Library. Building tours will follow.

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.

Oktoberfest Celebration

Wear your lederhosen and bring your beer stein for Fr. Joseph O’Connell Council #3481’s Oktoberfest celebration, Friday, Oct. 11, 8 p.m.–12 a.m., at O’Connell Gardens. The event includes a deluxe bar, dessert, and coffee and features authentic German food, drinks, music, and dancing. Reservations are required by Oct. 1. For more information or to RSVP, contact Amy Bermudez at (516) 384-9566 or PGK Steve Bermudez at (516) 581-6144. 2985 Kenneth place.

Kiwanis Installation Gala

Kiwanis Club of Oceanside invites all to celebrate its 79th Anniversary Charter & Installation Dinner , Thursday, Oct. 17., at Temple Avodah. The gala evening begins with a reception and raffles at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner, a program, and dancing at 7:30 p.m. 3050 Oceanside Road, Oceanside. $100 per person, with checks payable to the Kiwanis Club of Oceanside Foundation. For tickets, ads, or raffle donations, contact Nancy Russek Baxter.

Honoring Long Island’s best in health care

By Melissa Berman

Health care professionals traded their scrubs and lab coats for suits and cocktail dresses at the third annual Herald Excellence in Healthcare Awards at the Heritage Club, in Bethpage, on Sept. 18, which honored the best in their field.

The event, organized by the RichnerLIVE team at the Long Island Herald, drew more than 300 attendees, and recognized more than 10 health care professions.

“Tonight is not only a celebration of achievement, but also a sincere expression of gratitude to those who tirelessly safeguard the health and well being of our community,” Amy Amato, Richner Communications’ executive director of corporate relations and events, said. “Your dedication, resilience and passion are truly inspiring.”

Awards were presented to 46 health professionals, including three special honors: Distinguished Visionary, Organization of Excellence and Excellence in Nursing Advocacy.

“From dedicated doctors and nurses to visionary hospital executives and inspiring educators, these honorees are the backbone of our communities’ health,” Stuart Richner, chief executive of Richner Communications, said.

Michelle Ballan, of the Stony Brook University Health Sciences Center, who received an Excellence in Healthcare award, expressed her gratitude for being recognized for her hard work.

“It’s a tremendous honor to be here and to be celebrated, because I’m just a liaison for individuals with disabilities to eradicate and minimize the health care disparities that exist in different settings,” Ballan said. “To be honored for the health care award, it’s really just an extension of the work that my team does for individuals with disabilities, who are the true experts.”

Having worked in the home care field for 20 years, Joseph Verdirame, CEO of Alliance Homecare/TrustHouse, has learned that there are no shortcuts, and you need to provide exceptional care for the patient, he said.

“We’ve spent a lot of time building and developing our business model to really enhance the way home care is provided in the industry,” Verdirame, who also won the Excellence in Healthcare award, said. “We’re very proud of what we’ve accomplished today for all the work we’ve put in.”

According to Luis Fandos, of Alluring Age: Anti-Aging and Wellness Center, who won an Excellence in Healthcare award, it was a dream come true to be honored, and he finally feels that all the effort, sweat and tears he put into his work has come to fruition.

“When you have other people recognize what you do, and appreciate that, it’s priceless,” Fandos said.

The keynote speaker was Stanley M. Bergman, chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Henry Schein and the winner of the Distinguished Visionary Award. “Health care is local, and it is critical that we maintain an outstanding quality of health care system here on Long Island,” Bergman said, and

told the crowd, “Thank you for what you do, being amongst the nation’s best health care systems.”

The major sponsors of the awards included Alliance Homecare, Henry Schein, Nassau University Medical Center, the New York State Nurses Association, Northwell Orthopedics, Stony Brook Medicine, The Aspen Group and Trusthouse.

Muriel Donnelly, VP of PR at Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, with Stuart Richner of Richner Communications.

Honoree Jennifer Lazzaro, of Hearing and Brain Centers of America, Long Island.

Honoree Denis Nankervis, of Peconic Bay Medical Center Northwell Health.

Honoree Dr. Howard Goodman, the Long Island Weight Loss Doctor, with Jessica Kleiman of the Long Island Herald.

Jason Thomas/Herald photos

Honoree Michelle Ballan, of Stony Brook University Health Sciences Center, with her family and friends.

Jason Thomas/Herald photos

Honoree John McGuigan, of AHRC Suffolk, right, with Stuart Richner.

Honoree Dr. Brian Mayrsohn, of Maywell Health.

Dr. Jill Kaman, of the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.

Keynote and Distinguished Visionary recipient Stanley Bergman, of Henry Schein.

Honorees Roxanne Carfora, of AgelessMD, and Dr. Luis Fandos, of Alluring Age: Anti-Aging and Wellness Center.

Honorees from Aspen Dental, Lina Patino, DDS, and Roumiana Tzvetkova, DMD.

Honoree Megan C. Ryan, of Nassau University Medical Center.

Honoree Catherine Canadeo, center, of Catherine Canadeo Health & Wellness Corp.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Dr. Todd J. Cohen, of New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Melissa Schachter, of the Speech Language Place.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

CITIBANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CHASE FUNDING MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2002-3, Plaintiff, AGAINST

KIM TUFANO AKA KIM

M. TUFANO, et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on July 24, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 6, 2024 at 2:30 PM premises known as 2858 Cherry Court Oceanside, NY 11572.

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 38, Block 402 and Lot 52.

Approximate amount of judgment $374,851.44 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #610176/2018.

John P. Clarke, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 149248

SERIES 2004-CF2, Plaintiff, vs. ALAN MICHAEL BAER AND LESLIE DANA BAER, AS ADMINISTRATORS OF THE ESTATE OF STELLA ANN BAER, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 16, 2022, 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 2:00 p.m., premises known as 103 Knight Street, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 452 and Lot 11. Approximate amount of judgment is $285,512.03 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #004462/2009.

David Lieser, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 149010

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CITIBANK N.A., Plaintiffagainst - ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF FRED J. FIGGS A/K/A FRED FIGGS, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on July 30, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 17th day of October, 2024 at 2:00

I.P. Fire Department fire prevention a blast

The Island Park Volunteer Fire Department welcomed the community to its Fire Prevention and Open House on Sunday at the department’s headquarters located at 440 Long Beach Road. The event featured a range of activities designed to promote fire safety and engage attendees in learning more about emergency services.

Visitors had the opportunity to meet their local firefighters, tour the firehouse, and watch live firefighter operations in action.

A highlight for many was the interactive smoke house, which offered hands-on lessons in navigating smoky

environments safely. Fire safety tips for both fire and medical emergencies were provided, and a recruiting booth was available for those interested in joining the department.

Children were especially excited by a special visit from the Fire Marshal Dog, adding to the fun and educational atmosphere.

The event also featured a barbecue, with refreshments served to attendees, making the day both informative and enjoyable for all ages.

PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Premises known as 231 Elizabeth Avenue, Oceanside, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11572. (SBL#: 54-238-57, 58 and 59)

Approximate amount of lien $151,768.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 614447/2018. Anthony DeCarolis, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218

Dated: August 20, 2024

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 148961

Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 22, 2023. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 “Rain or Shine” on the 24th day of October, 2024 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of Land with the Buildings and Improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 78 Concord Avenue, Oceanside, NY 11572. (Section: 43, Block: 385, Lot: 7)

Approximate amount of lien $1,010,540.33 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 003398/2017.

Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170

Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: August 23, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU MANUFACTURERS AND TRADERS TRUST COMPANY, A/K/A M&T BANK, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER WITH HUDSON CITY SAVINGS BANK, Plaintiff - againstFREDDY ORMENO, et al

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

Firefighter

Bitetto showed how to extinguish a dryer fire with a fire extinguisher at Island Park’s Fire Safety Day.

Island Park Chief Eric Gorton, Chief Michael Denis, with Fire Marshall Matthew Kerin, K-9 Leah and Chief Mahendra Hardwar.

–Kepherd Daniel

Sheila Darcy/Herald photos

Seven-year old Mauricio Banzali learned the use the fire hose with a member of the Island Park Fire Department.

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.

REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role. Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

To Deliver Papers To Businesses in Massapequa, Amityville and Babylon 2 Days Per Week Must Have Own Vehicle/Van

This is an independent contractor role for Richner Communications Compensation based on stops starting at $275/week If Interested contact Jim at jrotche@liherald.com or 516-569-4000 x211

JOURNEYMAN

COMMERCIAL/ RESIDENTIAL

Electrical Services. Traveling/ Valid License Required. 7-10yrs. Experience. $28-$34/ hourly. 516-739-3425, hrdepartment@valenteelectric.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE open-

ings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

Medical Reception/Accounts

Receivable

Part Time- back-office work. Rockville Centre. Must be friendly, well-spoken. Computer literacy necessary. Back office includes collections/account receivable, verifying insurance and researching claims and some billing. Must be flexible (days/evenings). $18-$19/ Hourly. Email resume drsmnw@optonline.net or fax resume 516-763-4218.

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

Should we avoid cedar for siding, too?

Amazing Location

Nestled on a picturesque 75x118 lot, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Located on a peaceful, tree-lined cul-desac, this residence features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, including a private master ensuite. The airy living room, with its

Q. We want to replace our cedar siding, and you wrote about not using cedar. Is that just for decks, or also for siding? Our community in Massachusetts insists on cedar siding, but has been accepting lookalikes if they meet their appearance standards at the community review. It wouldn’t make sense for us to consider cedar if it’s as much of a problem as you stated. Please let us know your opinion on what we should do, since we want to try to get the siding done before the winter.

A. In my column, answering the question about decks, I wrote that I don’t recommend cedar as either a structural material or finish board material because of its instability and maintenance issues, for decks, specifically. Natural wood is more reactive to the environment, because it used to be in the middle of a tree, and wasn’t intended to be exposed to the weather in its natural state.

The stronger, solid hardwoods are less reactive, but cedar is a soft wood that easily expands and contracts. Although it’s resistant to insects, it doesn’t last as long as other products. As a siding material, it’s not as big a problem, and it’s reminiscent of the original New England historical architecture it was employed for. It’s very attractive, and the issue of stability and durability is different for its use as a siding material.

There are two basic kinds of natural cedar siding, cedar shakes and cedar shingles. Shingles are cut with blades and shaped uniformly, while shakes, also called “split” shakes, are cut to size at double the thickness (or more) and then split in half. That mimics the rustic and non-uniform look our first settlers developed for making the homes and meeting houses they constructed as weatherresistant as they could manage. The techniques and original tools are still used today.

BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978

EAST ROCKAWAY: 3 BRS, FBTH, Second Floor, 2 Parking Spots, Pets OK. $2800 Includes Heat/ Water. 516-596-9470

CATSKILLS: 3 BEDROOMS, 2 baths, 14 acres. 26x48 poured foundation, Needs Work. $169K. Owner. 607-434-8350

You may want to reconsider when to do the work, whichever style you choose, because cedar is generally harvested in the winter and early spring, and you’ll get better-quality material to work with in the spring than in the fall. The reason the wood is harvested when it is is because the ground around cedar trees is boggy and swampy, and heavy equipment can’t get to the trees until the ground is hard and stable. (Incidentally, foresting requirements dictate that for every tree harvested, two trees must be planted, and about 1 percent of all cedar trees are taken in a season, meaning there will be plenty of cedar for you when you need it.)

Make sure you have an installer who knows to use a waterproofing membrane and drainage filter fabric first, before the cedar is applied, so the shingles or shakes don’t constantly sit against a wet wall after they’re attached. The original settlers understood this, and used strips of cedar to keep the shakes off the wall to drain and dry. Wetting and drying cycles cause accelerated decay. 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.

SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

CHARTER CLUB HOME (angels depicted) set of 4 assorted salad/ dessert plates, boxed. $39, 516-884-9994

DOG LADDER: DELUXE, Metal Frame, New, Never Used. Originally $100, Only $25 Firm. 516-486-7941

RADIAL TIRE R255/65R16 In New Condition. $20 Firm! 516-486-7941

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack® animal healthcare for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com)

BATH SAFETY BAR: screw clamp mounts securely to tub wall without scratching $50.00. 516-623-6318

BROOKSTONE PILLOW TV Remote in box, new, $29, 516-884-9994.

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

HOUSE CLEANING AVAILABLE 20 Years Exp. Excellent References Homes / Offices. Reliable. Affordable Rates. 516-776-0021.

MARINA'S CLEANING SERVICES: Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. 10% Off With This Ad. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. Family Plumbing. 516-599-1011.

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP SURGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION POSTOPERATIVELY and a Bair Hugger (BLUE BLANKET) forced-air warming blanket was used during the surgery, between 2020present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727

FREEDOMCARE. LET YOUR loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-855-385-7556

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are

Remembering a cherished friendship with Nelson DeMille

The bestselling, superbly gifted novelist Nelson DeMille recently died. The author of 23 books, including 17 bestsellers, DeMille was so much more than a brilliant writer. He was first and foremost an outstanding human being and a loyal friend.

The first book of his that I read was “Cathedral,” in the early 1980s. It was a gripping tale of an attack on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I was hooked. Among all of Demille’s books, I found “Gold Coast,” a satiric depiction of Long Island’s North Shore, to be a true classic. My wife, Rosemary, became an almost obsessive reader of his works.

I didn’t actually meet DeMille until the early 2000s, when I was privileged to be invited to several lunches hosted by Mets owner Fred Wilpon and New York jurist Sol Wachtler at which DeMille was also a guest. I was struck immediately by what a regular guy he was. Totally unassuming and down-to-earth. Humorous. Extremely intelligent, and

A

Tknowledgeable on so many topics. Never once telling us how many bestsellers he authored, or mentioning his service in Vietnam as an infantry commander, for which he was awarded a Bronze Star.

Those early gatherings opened the way for lunches, dinners and social gatherings at which Rosemary and I would see Nelson and his wife, Sandy, as well as get-togethers he and I would have with guys we each knew. I distinctly recall the wonderful evening Rosemary and I enjoyed at DeMille’s home, celebrating his 75th birthday with his family and a multitude of friends.

TRosemary, who, in what turned out to be Sandy’s final social event, invited her to a formal congressional lunch in Washington honoring then first lady Melania Trump.

That evening, Sandy joined Rosemary, our daughter, Erin, and me for dinner at a Capitol Hill restaurant, and she was as outgoing and upbeat as ever. Just months later, in September 2018, she died. As devastated as he was, Nelson never showed even the slightest bit of self-pity.

he bestselling author was still the blue-collar guy who grew up in Elmont.

Conversations with him ran the gamut of his varied interests, including dedication to his family and his concern for others. Nothing was more saddening or distressing than when Sandy, a nonsmoker, was stricken with lung cancer. The years following her diagnosis in 2014 were marked by peaks of hope, but then by the darkest valley in 2018, when Sandy succumbed after waging a courageous, uncomplaining struggle.

She was an absolute delight to be with. Intelligent and always upbeat. Sandy was the center of her husband’s life. She was especially friendly with

Rosemary and I continued to get together with DeMille and, if anything, our friendship and admiration for him only deepened. More than ever, I realized that, with all his fame and success, he was, at heart, still the blue-collar guy who grew up in Elmont. Though he moved easily with the socially upscale and the movers and shakers, he very much identified with cops, firefighters, construction workers and military veterans. Those were the people who, through guts and dedication, make our nation work with little recognition or acclaim.

DeMille also never left Long Island. His roots were here, and this was where he stayed.

He continued his literary efforts,

writing, as always, in longhand on yellow legal pads, and rushing feverishly to meet his publisher’s deadlines. His final work was “Blood Line,” published in 2023, which he co-wrote with his son, Alex. Last Oct. 11 I had the privilege of moderating a discussion of “Blood Line” with the two of them before a large audience at LIU Post.

Weeks later, on Oct. 28, Rosemary, and I got together with DeMille at the Paramount, in Huntington, at a reception prior to a performance by Bill O’Reilly and Sid Rosenberg. DeMille was in good spirits, and seemed entirely healthy, but that was the last time we were with him. Soon after, he let us know he was being treated for cancer, but was confident all would be well.

This went on for months. On June 6, Rosemary received an email from him, saying he had just one procedure left, and then we’d be getting together for dinner. That was the last we heard from him. Nelson died of esophageal cancer on Sept. 17.

His wake and funeral, attended by hundreds of admirers and friends, were a celebration of a wonderful man of great accomplishment. He will be missed. Nelson DeMille, R.I.P.

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

historic election for all the wrong reasons

his has been a political year like no other in my lifetime. It may be the only year that was dominated by mean-spirited and ugly conduct, all in the name of winning an election. I am not naïve, having run 12 successful campaigns for public office. But the desperate campaign being run by Donald Trump, in his quest for renewed power, will stand out in the history books for many years to come.

Let’s start with this backdrop. Trump lost the 2020 election by 7 million votes. His years of claims that his success was “stolen” are fake by any measure. He admitted that he was beaten by challenging the election results in Georgia. If you lost an election, why would you be asking the Georgia secretary of state to “find 11,780 votes”? What is sad is that there are millions of Americans who have fallen for that charade.

The second historical event that

taints the Trump re-election effort is the Jan. 6, 2021, riot on Capitol Hill. Trump once told Americans that they shouldn’t believe what they saw with their own eyes. Whether you’re blind or able to see, at Trump’s urging, hundreds of people broke down the doors to the Capitol and destroyed government property, and their actions contributed to the death of five people. That is not my conclusion. It is the findings of countless jurors who heard the facts after weeks and weeks of criminal trials.

D onald Trump’s vision of the nation is depressing and false.

And so, with the blemish of a torrent of facts that would undo any reelection effort, Trump commenced his 2024 campaign. He once claimed he would “drain the swamp,” but instead he has created a new swamp by conducting a campaign heavy with racial undertones, vicious personal attacks and attacks on the American court system.

There have been so many vitriolic assaults that it would take more than one column to adequately describe all of them. One of the current ones that deserves public scorn is his attacks on

the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio. Despite the pleas of the Republican governor of Ohio, the mayor of Springfield and many other elected officials, both Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance, have continued to spread false charges about Haitians eating dogs and cats.

I long ago learned that personal attacks on your opponent don’t get much voter applause. Trump has decided that calling his challenger, Vice President Kamala Harris, “mentally impaired” is a way to get voter support. He also thinks that attacking her appearance is a way to win over skeptical women voters. These tasteless tactics are not the way to get the support of the fast-shrinking independent vote.

One of the winning ways to get voters to be your boosters is to offer solid policy proposals and to give the public a chance to hear your vision for the next 10-plus years. Trump has offered little in way of new ideas, but has Project 2025 as his policy proposal. That 900-plus-page volume, drafted by former officials of his administration, calls for

dismantling the federal government as we know it and turning it over to prescreened loyalists who will complete a menu of bureaucratic horrors. Perhaps the most vexing part of the current Trump effort is his constant harping on what he thinks our country looks like. He describes America as a “failed state.” His vision of the nation is depressing and false. He claims that many thousands of the migrants who have come to America have committed major crimes. Any honest presidential contender would not tear down the country at a time when it wants a leader with a brighter view of the nation. Obviously, my view of the Trump campaign is not a flattering one. Am I a partisan? I have spent all of my life cultivating relationships with my Republican counterparts, and have succeeded because of our mutual respect. But I draw the line when it comes to Donald Trump. I just don’t think he is the true face of America.

Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

HeraLd editoriaL

Calling for fire safety, honoring local volunteers

With Fire Prevention Week — Oct. 6-12 — upon us, it’s important to reflect on the significance of fire safety in our communities, and to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians who keep us safe.

These men and women are truly local heroes, but they are also neighbors just a phone call away who risk their lives in hazardous situations that include fires and floods. They should never be taken for granted, and this annual observance serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in preventing fires and responding to emergencies of all kinds.

There are 71 fire departments in Nassau County — 69 all-volunteer, and two with both professionals and volunteers — along with six volunteer ambulance corps that provide fire, technical rescue and emergency medical help, all serving 1.3 million residents. In Suffolk, more than 125 volunteer fire and EMS agencies serve that county’s population of more than 1.5 million.

Fire Prevention Week is a nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness of fire hazards and promoting practices that can saves lives. President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed it a national observance in 1925 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which devastated much of the city and claimed hundreds of lives.

“Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!” is this year’s theme. The goal is to

Letters

educate people about the crucial role smoke alarms play in preventing injury and death when a fire breaks out in a home.

Three of every five home fire deaths occur in properties without working smoke alarms, and the risk of dying in a house fire is cut in half when there are functioning alarms, according to the National Fire Protection Association. This underscores the fact that fire prevention isn’t just about avoiding accidents — it’s about saving lives.

The American Red Cross also stresses the importance of installing smoke alarms. At the organization’s Sound the Alarm events, volunteers install smoke alarms for free. For more information, go to RedCross.org.

Education is paramount, too. Children, adults and seniors benefit from learning how to prevent fires and to respond appropriately if one breaks out. Teaching children not to play with matches, encouraging adults to avoid being distracted while cooking and reminding seniors to be mindful of electrical appliances are just a few essential lessons that can reduce the likelihood of fires.

It’s also important to honor the brave people who respond when fires and other emergencies occur. Volunteer firefighters often juggle full-time jobs and family responsibilities, yet they still make time to respond to calls for help — whether it’s a house fire, a car accident or a medical emergency.

Letter writer defending D’Esposito was ‘splitting hairs’

To the Editor:

In his letter last week, “Is D’Esposito vulnerable to a House probe?” Christopher Kane complained that the Herald owes Congressman Anthony D’Esposito an apology for an article about the hiring of his mistress and the daughter of his fiancée that was headlined “D’Esposito faces ethics probe over hiring.” Kane argued, in part, that D’Esposito didn’t violate any ethics rules because he wasn’t married to his fiancée.

However, according to a Sept. 23 article in The New York Times, “The House code of conduct prohibits members of Congress from employing spouses or relatives, including stepchildren. Though Mr. D’Esposito has never married, congressional ethics experts said that employing a woman akin to his stepdaughter, who shared a home with him, could breach the requirement that members of Congress ‘adhere to the spirit and the letter of the rules.’”

The Times article continued, “A separate provision adopted in the wake of the #MeToo movement explicitly states that lawmakers ‘may not engage in a sexual relationship with any employee of the House who works

They undergo extensive training to ensure that they are equipped to handle the myriad dangerous conditions that can arise in an emergency, and they are often the only line of defense when a home catches fire and lives are on the line. It’s no wonder that so many people find firefighters’ dedication so inspiring.

The same is true for volunteer EMTs, who provide critical care during medical emergencies, administering life-saving treatment before a victim can be transported to a hospital. Their swift action and expertise often mean the difference between life and death.

A former Suffolk County volunteer firefighter and EMT who continues to serve as a paid paramedic and a New York City police officer explained why he became a first responder.

“I wanted to participate in something that allowed me to help my neighbors at their most vulnerable points in life, while also providing me with valuable life experience and training,” he told the Herald. “The fire department put me on a path to serve the people and communities that I live and work in, as well as (having) a second family I know would come to my aid should my family or I need it.”

We strongly urge you to be there for your local fire department’s next fundraiser or open house, salute the volunteers at their next holiday parade and, if you’re able, consider becoming one of them.

under the supervision of the member.’”

Although D’Esposito was not married to his fiancée, with whom he was allegedly cohabiting, it appears that in

his letter, Kane was doing nothing more than splitting hairs!

Lastly, while he criticizes Laura Gillen, who “identifies as a Catholic,” apparently Kane is not that troubled

We badly need congestion pricing

Ibelieve congestion pricing is an absolute necessity, for several reasons. First of all, traffic in the metropolitan area is an absolute nightmare. You can’t get into New York City in a reasonable amount of time unless you leave at 5 a.m. or after 9 p.m. most days from any direction — long Island, Westchester, Connecticut or New Jersey.

once you get to Manhattan, traffic is so bad that you can walk faster than you can drive. I know, because I work on the upper East Side and often walk to appointments and meetings. It’s faster than waiting endlessly in a taxi or uber.

the rafts of Citi bikes, bike lanes, bus-only lanes and outdoor restaurants built during and after the coronavirus pandemic make Manhattan more intolerable for driving than ever before. according to a tomtom report, New York tops the list of cities with the worst traffic in america. the average commuter spent just under 25 minutes driving about six miles in 2023.

Secondly, our mass transit system has been allowed to deteriorate over the decades, because politicians have always kicked the can down the road. the Second avenue subway was originally proposed over 100 years ago. today, three stations have been built, and the extension to Harlem has been put off, because congestion pricing, which was supposed to help pay for it, has been halted.

Ithe 7 Subway line was to have had a stop in Hell’s kitchen, the “10th avenue station,” to alleviate passenger congestion on the West Side and serve the growing neighborhood, but that, too, was killed for lack of funds and political will.

regional train service and rehabilitating the century-old subway system. the more comfortable and convenient the train system, the more people will use it, and the more drivers will opt out of the maddening rush to get to the city.

f only we could come up with a way to charge people based on their net worth.

Much of the current subway system is antiquated, some of it was damaged by saltwater intrusion during Superstorm Sandy, and the signal system is a hazard unto itself, slowing the system down and causing accidents.

So how do we resolve our urban traffic nightmare? there is no doubt that rail lines into Manhattan should be the No. 1 priority. they move the most people at the fastest speeds into and out of the city. Congestion pricing would be of enormous benefit in funding better

Letters

by D’Esposito’s reported affair with a married woman (which ended her marriage) while he was engaged to someone else. Do we really want to be represented by someone who is so ethically challenged?

RobERt tollE Cedarhurst

Abortion rights must be enshrined in N.Y.’s Constitution

to the Editor:

I was unclear about Proposition 1, and my concern grew when I learned that women in states with abortion bans are dying. I wondered if New York’s abortion laws could withstand the radical extremists influencing our Supreme Court, Congress and potentially the White House. Despite Republican assurances against a national abortion ban, I remain skeptical, especially since the Supreme Court previously deemed Roe v. Wade settled law. Moreover, the G o P made no effort to block the proposed ban on the abortion pill. While an outright abortion ban may not be imminent, without enshrining abortion rights in New York’s Constitution, it’s plausible that there will be attempts to erode women’s rights gradually. For these reasons, it’s crucial to condemn the fear-

Now, there are valid reasons why congestion pricing is unfair. If I’m a millionaire, I don’t care about paying $15 to drive below 60th Street, but if I make $50,000 a year, it’s putting a huge dent in my wallet. box trucks or moving vans would pay $24, large trucks $36, which would make goods and services cost more for New Yorkers.

It’s unfortunate that we can’t devise a methodology that could charge people based on their net worth. If a license tag could be connected to an IRS filing, we could charge wealthy people a different rate than those of more modest means.

beyond a system like that, we must resurrect the congestion pricing program to start to reduce traffic into Manhattan, and use those funds to upgrade Mta trains, subways and buses. If we do nothing, we will have wasted $500 million installing the apparatus to track vehicular traffic into the city, while

mongering falsehoods spread by the radical right about the ballot initiative and to vote “yes” on Proposition 1.

StEPHaNIE CaPuaNo Wantagh

Now Trump will approve the SALT deduction?

to the Editor:

then-President Donald trump and the Republicans limited our income tax deduction for state and local taxes. For two years the Republicans have controlled the House, so why haven’t Congressman a nthony D’Esposito and the M a G a Republicans in the House introduced legislation to give us back our S alt deductions?

Now, in a desperate attempt to help D’Esposito keep his House seat, t rump comes to New York and tells us he’s going to give us back the Salt deduction. He’ll do that right after he finishes building the wall and Mexico pays for it. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

It won’t be all bad when D’Esposito loses the election. His friends in the town of Hempstead will give him a good job.

DENNIS PatRICk bRaDY Rockville Centre

doing nothing to reduce traffic and pollution and build a city for the future. It is also unconscionable that fare evasion cost the Mta an estimated $690 million in 2022, including $315 million from buses and $285 million from subways — 10 percent of the Mta’s annual budget.

and beyond the dollars and cents, New York City now ranks as one of the most ozone-polluted cities in the world thanks to the millions of cars, trucks and buses in stop-and-go gridlock traffic, with drivers endlessly circling for parking spaces and taxis, ubers and lyfts driving nonstop, looking for their next fare.

So how to move the massive number of people in the metropolitan area from destination to destination? Make the best use of the advanced train system that enlightened people built 120 years ago, and that provided 2 billion rides in 2023, on over hundreds of miles of track, picking up and dropping off people at 472 stations. but you can’t build out and upgrade the system without money, and congestion pricing is the ticket.

Jim Paymar is a veteran New York television anchor and reporter who has worked at CNBC, WNBC and WABC. He anchors a podcast, “The Big Shift with Jim Paymar.”

Framework by Tim Baker

Election Letters to the Editor policy

In the interest of fairness and transparency during the election season, we will not publish letters in the Oct. 31-Nov. 6 issue, the final one before Election Day, that criticize a candidate or a specific issue. This is to ensure that no last-minute submissions are published without sufficient opportunity for rebuttal. Readers are encouraged to send letters to execeditor@liherald.com.

At the Family Street Festival — Bellmore

paYmar

In October 2022, Tamar Lemoine of Valley Stream felt a lump in her right breast and was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer. She had previously put o a biopsy after a mammogram in 2021 detected a suspicious mass, so she knew that this time she would need to act fast.

Tamar was referred to Dr. Christine Hodyl, Director of Breast Health Services at Mount Sinai South Nassau, who created a comprehensive treatment plan that included chemotherapy and breast-conserving lumpectomy surgery along with the removal of several lymph nodes. Her treatment ended with a month of radiation therapy sessions. Now cancer-free, Tamar urges women to get their annual mammograms.

Mount Sinai South Nassau’s cancer program is accredited by the Commission on Cancer and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, o ering patients a multidisciplinary approach to fight cancer without having to leave Long Island.

In October 2022, Tamar Lemoine of Valley Stream felt a lump in her right breast and was diagnosed with late-stage