SIBSPlace gala nets $300,000 Page 10
South Side cheerleaders display their school spirit during the annual Homecoming parade on Saturday, as they march past the school towards the football field for the big game. South Side High School Mascot Sammy Cyclone joins local families who came out to enjoy the Homecoming parade on Saturday afternoon. Story, more photos, Page 3.
By DANIEl oFFNER doffner@liherald.com
“secular in nature and not ministerial.”
Michael Califano, a former third-grade teacher at Maria Regina Catholic School in Seaford, has reached a “settlement in principle” with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, according to a court document filed on Oct. 14.
The document, a letter addressed to Magistrate Judge James M. Wicks, of U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, states that the parties “have reached a settlement in principle and are in the process of finalizing the terms of a settlement agreement.”
Maria Regina School and the Diocese of Rockville Centre have agreed to an amicable resolution.
Califano was fired on Dec. 27, 2023, after 18 months at the school, and he claimed that the termination resulted from an anonymous email that was shared with diocesan officials last November, containing pictures of Califano kissing his boyfriend. He maintained that he had kept his activity on social media private, and that he had never openly discussed sexuality with his class.
JoINT STATEMENT
FRoM THE DIoCESE, THE SCHool AND CAlIFANo’S ATToRNEyS
Califano, 27, who openly identifies as gay, said that the diocese was aware of his sexuality when he was hired as a math and English teacher — a position that Wicks described in a memorandum order last September as being
Califano claimed that after a meeting with the school’s pastor and representatives of the diocese, he was informed that he had violated a school handbook policy about adhering to Catholic values.
Sean Dolan, who was the diocese’s communications director at the time, said, “For privacy reasons, we do not comment publicly on personnel matters,
Continued on page 9
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Donna O’Reilly-Einemann, branch manager at Douglas Elliman Real Estate in Rockville Centre, was recognized as the community’s Business Person of the Year at the 39th Annual Nassau County Council of Chambers Legislative Breakfast on Oct. 25 at the Crest Hollow Country Club.
After 20 years in the industry, O’Reilly-Einemann found her niche in Rockville Centre, where she combines her business acumen with a deep commitment to community service.
“We do so much for the community,” O’ReillyEinemann said about her role as vice president of the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce. “To be recognized for having such an impact on the small business community was really incredible.”
Ed Asip, president of the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce, praised O’Reilly-Einemann for stepping up to fill the vice president role.
“She is probably one of the most positive, can-do people you ever want to meet,” Asip said. “She does an incredible job setting up ribbon cuttings and coordinating with the mayor’s office. With everything she’s done, she’s just the perfect board member.”
Asip said everything she does, from developing new ideas to sharing events on social media, is executed with the dedication and enthusiasm of a business leader.
O’Reilly-Einemann joined Douglas Elliman in 2020 as an associate broker and branch manager after helping establish Daniel Gale Sotheby’s. She describes Rockville Centre as a “mini-metropolis” where everything residents need is just a short distance from home.
“Our community is an extremely vibrant hub for commerce,” she said. “We have such talented business people from brick and mortar to online businesses. We offer everything from restaurants to retail.”
Her roots in Long Island run deep. Born in Rockville Centre and raised in East Rockaway, O’ReillyEinemann now calls Lynbrook home. She attended St. Raymond Elementary School and Sacred Heart Academy before earning a bachelor’s degree in marketing from St. John’s University, where she was a cheerleader from 1980 to 1984.
Before entering real estate, she held leadership positions at Macy’s, Estee Lauder and Marvin Windows & Doors Long Island Distributor. This diverse background in pricing strategies and consumer behavior has proven valuable in her current role.
As chamber vice president, O’Reilly-Einemann chairs the membership committee, where she has implemented new initiatives, including heading up the chamber’s social media and creating a buddy program for new members.
“We put our heart and soul into what we do,” she said. “We’re all volunteers, so we do it for the love of the village and it’s nice to be recognized for our efforts.”
Douglas Elliman, with more than 7,000 agents across 59 offices in New York state, provides services from sales and rentals to mortgages and title insurance. To learn more about the company and its more than 100-year legacy, visit Elliman.com.
The Nassau Council of Chambers, established in 1979, is located at 1576 Front St. in East Meadow. Franklin A. Camarano Jr. serves as president. For more information, call 516-253-0124, email Info@ NCChambers.org or visit NCChambers.org.
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By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
South Side High School students, families and community members gathered to show their Cyclone pride at the school’s annual homecoming parade on Saturday, Oct. 26.
Dressed up in the school’s traditional red and blue colors, students waved banners and rode on floats to display their school spirit as they marched along Long Beach Road. The parade route continued onward up the road towards Shepherd Street, ending at South Side High School just in time for the big game. Both events drew a large turnout from locals eager to support the team.
The homecoming event not only celebrated the team’s efforts on the field but also the community’s deep-rooted support for South Side High School. The parade brought together parents, alumni and residents throughout the village to honor the homecoming tradition and cheer on all of its many student-athletes. Even though it has been a challenging season for the varsity football team thus far, the Cyclone spirit remains as strong as ever and could be seen in the passion and enthusiasm of the crowd on Saturday as they celebrated and cheered.
Following the parade, fans packed the stands as the defending Nassau County champion Cyclones took on Manhasset in a closely contested game. The 2024-2025 season has proven to be difficult for South Side, following a similarly close loss to Hewlett, 19-21, just a week prior.
During the homecoming game on Saturday afternoon, the Cyclones put on a spirited performance but ultimately fell to Manhasset, 35-42, bringing Manhasset to a dominant 5-1 record in Nassau Conference III, and dropping South Side to 2-5 on the season, after losing the last three games. The team would put on a strong performance on the field, despite the loss. Senior running back Justin Singh led the Cyclones’ offensive push, scoring three touchdowns. With the backing of his teammates, Singh energized the crowd as he dodged defenders and pushed his way to the end zone multiple times.
South Side quarterback Nate Schwartzberg also connected on a 3-yard pass with AJ Magaraci and a 7-yard pass to wide receiver Sean Arnott, securing two more touchdowns. Both were followed by a successful extra point kick from Lukas Papadopulos. Manhasset’s defensive and offensive coordination, however, ultimately proved too much for the team to overcome.
Manhasset’s star running back, Atif Heathington, set the tone for his team with an impressive performance, rushing for 199 yards on just 12 carries and securing four touchdowns. Heathington’s agility and field vision left a strong impression, as he consistently gained substantial yardage with each run. Dylan Attard also played a critical role in Manhasset’s offense, rushing for 117
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
A former SiriusXM disc jockey was sentenced to eight years in prison for his role in a cross-country narcotics trafficking operation, which used the United States Postal Service to transport drugs between California and Hempstead.
Lance Holmes, 42, of Hollis, Queens, also known as “DJ Love Dinero,” pled guilty in March 2024 to operating as a major trafficker, attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, and conspiracy. Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that Holmes was sentenced on Oct. 22 to eight years in prison and five years of post-release supervision.
“Lance Holmes played a major role in moving multiple kilos of cocaine and fentanyl from the West Coast right into our Hempstead community, disguising his illicit activity by exploiting our mail system with the help of a postal carrier,” Donnelly said in a statement.
Holmes partnered with Adrianna Lewis, 33, a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier from Rockville Centre. Prosecutors said Lewis helped him by intercepting packages filled with drugs that were sent to addresses along her postal route in Hempstead. The narcotics, including cocaine and fentanyl, were shipped in
medium flat-rate postal boxes from shipping stores in Southern California. Authorities said Lewis received $500 for each successful delivery.
The FBI Long Island Gang Task Force and the ATF Long Island Firearms Task Force conducted the investigation, dubbed “Operation Honeycomb,” and in March 2021, executed search warrants that led to the arrest of 40 individuals allegedly involved in narcotics sales in the Hempstead area—including Holmes and Lewis.
Authorities apprehended Holmes in June 2022, after placing a call to inquire about the whereabouts of his package, after two kilograms of cocaine, which had been bound for delivery, were intercepted and seized by investigators.
Law enforcement seized a total of 10 kilograms of cocaine and 1 kilogram of fentanyl during its investigation. K9 units from the Nassau County Police Department and New York State Police were also used to help sniff out and intercept several of the packages.
Lewis pled guilty to criminal facilitation in December 2023 and was sentenced to five years of probation in February 2024.
“Together with our partners, we will continue to shut down narcotics pipelines into Long Island and send the traffickers to prison,” Donnelly said.
A motorist reported on Oct. 24 that someone brandishing a firearm attempted to steal her vehicle while parking on Lenox Road. The victim was able to close the door of the vehicle and drive away from the location without sustaining any injuries.
An employee of Dunkin Donuts reported on Oct. 24, someone broke the door to the building and stole a safe from inside the business.
Officers with the Rockville Centre Police Department detained five juveniles on Oct. 26 for disorderly conduct in the vicinity of Hamilton Street. All five juveniles were released into the custody of their parents. Detectives are further investigating the incident.
Rockville Centre Police located a missing person on Oct. 22, who was reported missing by the Nassau County Police Department. The individual was found on Varick Court.
Police responded on Oct. 23 to a report of graffiti found at Ralph’s Ices on N. Park Avenue.
Police responded on Oct. 23 to a report of graffiti found at The Fantasy AMC movie theater on N. Park Avenue.
A resident of Andover Road reported on Oct. 22 that someone withdrew money from her bank account at a bank in New Jersey using fraudulent identification.
A resident of Maple Avenue reported on Oct. 23 that someone opened a student loan in his name without his authorization.
A resident of Hendrickson Avenue reported on Oct. 24 that someone altered several checks that were written and previously processed by a bank.
A resident of Marvin Avenue reported on Oct. 26 that someone altered a check that was mailed through the postal service.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
The Rockville Centre Fire Department is always looking for help in serving our community. If you live here or in any one of the adjacent communities and are interested in joining or just
Oct. 20 – Oct. 27
General Alarms – 10
Still Alarms – 6
Rescue – 4
Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 57
Mutual Aid Fire – 0
Mutual Aid Rescue – 0
Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0
Total – 77
have questions, please visit any firehouse on Sunday mornings and speak with one of the officers or call (516) 6789320. For emergencies dial 911 or (516) 766-0400.
Year To Date
General Alarms – 469
Still Alarms – 247 Rescue – 153
Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 1,980
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Connie Rocco, a beloved Rockville Centre resident, recently celebrated her 100th birthday with a lively gathering at the Sandel Senior Center, where she was honored by Mayor Francis X. Murray with an official proclamation in recognition of her “dedication to the welfare of others” and her “stabilizing influence” on those around her.
Reflecting on the celebration, Rocco expressed her gratitude. “They did a fabulous job,” she said with a smile.
Rocco was born and raised in Brooklyn, where she attended Bushwick High School. She later began her career, working in an office job with the Department of Labor.
“It was only temporary,” she said. “I was going to take the exam but then I got engaged.”
She met her husband, John, a veteran of both the U.S. Army and Air Force, after he returned from service. The couple married in 1946, settling down in Queens, where they built a life and raised three children — two sons and a daughter. Over the years, their family grew, and today Rocco proudly counts three grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren among her blessings.
Later in life, as John’s health declined, they moved to an apartment in Oceanside, where they stayed for 25
years. Several years later, circumstances led her to make yet another move when the owners of the property decided to sell the apartment. Rocco moved in with her daughter in Rockville Centre
about five years ago, and shortly thereafter discovered a new community of friends at the Sandel Senior Center.
“I love it here,” Rocco said. “I think everything is run so beautifully, and the
staff is so good to me.”
Rocco was surrounded by friends and family as she was honored with a joyful celebration at the Sandel Center on Friday, Oct. 11. Despite the lost of many friends over the years, she expressed gratitude for the Rockville Centre community, where she has formed many new friendships.
“The people are so nice,” she said. “I like the people here in Rockville Centre.”
Teresa Sawicki, who works at the Sandel Center, said that Rocco is a beloved member of the senior community in the village.
“She is the best,” Sawicki said. “We asked her, ‘What’s your secret?’ She said, ‘Just be nice and listen to people.’”
The proclamation, read aloud during the celebration, honored Rocco’s positive impact on her community. It stated, “during her long productive lifetime she has demonstrated in countless ways her dedication to the welfare of others and has earned the respect and affection of people from all walks of life.” It continued, praising her as a “force for good and a stabilizing influence on those around her.”
Connie Rocco’s 100th birthday marks not just the passing of a century but a lifetime filled with family, friendships, and unwavering kindness. Her presence at the Sandel Center continues to be a source of warmth and inspiration to all who know her.
MUNRO PLACED FIFTH in the Nassau County cross-country championships last fall and will look to top that performance at Bethpage State Park Nov. 2. He went on to earn All-State honors in 2023 as a Top 20 finisher in the state and posted a best 5k time of 15-minutes, 43-seconds. He’s three-time All-County in cross-country and as a junior competed in the state track and field championships in the 3200 and 1600 meter events.
Friday, Nov. 1
Football: Manhasset at Kennedy 2 p.m.
Football: Oceanside at Port Washington 5:30 p.m.
Football: Division at Hewlett 6 p.m.
Football: West Hempstead at East Rockaway 6:30 p.m.
Football: Locust Valley at Plainedge 6:30 p.m.
Football: Syosset at Massapequa 6:30 p.m.
Football: Lynbrook at Bethpage 7 p.m.
Football: V.S. South at Malverne 7 p.m.
Football: Wantagh at C.S. Harbor 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2
Cross-Country: Nassau County Class I, II and III championships at Bethpage State Park 10 a.m.
Football: Calhoun at Carey 11 a.m.
Football: Jericho at Sewanhaka 11 a.m.
Football: Island Trees at Lawrence 11 a.m.
Football: MacArthur at Baldwin 2 p.m.
Football: Long Beach at Mepham 2 p.m.
Football: Seaford at North Shore 2 p.m.
Football: South Side at Floral Park 3 p.m.
Football: Elmont at Clarke
3 p.m.
Football: Mineola at V.S, North 3 p.m.
Football: Uniondale at Freepprt 3 p.m.
Football: Westbury at V.S. Central 3 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.
By BRIAN KACHARABA sports@liherald.com
The South Side golf team finally overthrew the mighty Trojans for its first conference championship in over a decade. But it will take some time to see if it will translate to that long-awaited county title.
South Side finished tied atop the Conference 5 standings with Garden City at 11-1 and the teams split the two regularseason meetings, but South Side was declared the champs by virtue of having a lower team stroke average during the season. The program has never won a county title.
Garden City dominated the first meeting, 9-0, on Sept. 18, but the rematch proved to be the turning point for both teams’ seasons as the Cyclones snapped the Trojans’ 60-plus game winning streak that dated to 2019 with a 6.5-2.5 victory at the Rockville Links on Sept. 26.
“We had a pretty close match with them last year, so the kids were out to make sure we beat them this year,” South Side coach Russ Hoernig said. “We had one of the best seasons in school history, so everyone is excited.”
South Side then swept Oceanside and Freeport to seal its first solo conference championship since 2012 before sharing the crown in 2016. The Cyclones posted a combined score of 177 against Freeport at Bethpage State Park on Oct. 8 to break the school record and the team’s season average of 190.5 was the second-lowest all-time.
Unfortunately, that momentum will be halted as the simultaneous county and individual championships won’t be contested until May of 2025. South
Side will be looking to qualify for the second day of the eightteam county event for the first time in over a decade.
“I’m worried about the rust,” Hoernig said. “I’m hoping I could get those top three kids, those All-County kids, to qualify for Day 2. I think, if they’re locked in, they shouldn’t have a problem doing that. I think that would be an accomplishment for us.”
Those kids are seniors Scott Bernabeu and Danny Daitch and sophomore Ryan Bernabeu. Scott Bernabeu, who Hoernig called the team’s “MVP”, paced the squad with a 36.4 scoring average (all competitors play nine holes in a match), including a season-best two under par in a 9-0 win over Mineola on Sept. 6.
“He probably was the most locked in I’ve ever seen a player be since I’ve taken over as coach,” Hoernig said. “I think he only has two rounds over par the whole season. He was literally on fire.”
Daitch has had his share of under par performances as well and finished with a 37.3 scoring average. A member of the team for three years, Daitch is the consummate perfectionist who is always trying to improve his game despite playing at an All-County level even last season.
Ryan Bernabeu (38.1) became the first sophomore to earn All-County honors in nearly a decade. Junior James Gilbert (39.3 average) was an All-County Honorable Mention and senior Nick Johnson (40.3) was an All-Conference selection.
Hoernig also lauded the play of senior Gavin Donoghue (39.6) and junior Matt Regan (42.2).
Francis F. Wilson Elementary School in Rockville Centre celebrated the changing of the seasons with its annual Autumn Surprise on Oct. 22, a cherished school tradition that has been bringing joy to students since 2007.
This unique event, started by teacher Marianne Cunningham, was inspired by her friend’s farm in upstate New York. She came up with the idea to create a “pumpkin patch” on the school’s front lawn, where each student would have the opportunity to pick their own pumpkin.
The first pumpkin patch event was such a hit with the students and staff that it became a yearly event, known fondly as Wilson’s Autumn Surprise.
Today, the tradition is upheld by the Wilson Elementary School PTA, with all of the pumpkins provided sourced by WPW Growers in Huntington. Every autumn, WPW Growers delivers enough pumpkins for each student, transforming the front lawn into a delightful autumn display.
Students from kindergarten through fifth grade enjoy a day filled with laughter, friendship, and festive activities—
balancing pumpkins, singing songs, and playing games. At the end of the event, each student gets to take home a pump-
kin, which is ready to decorate for Halloween, keeping the spirit of Wilson’s Autumn Surprise alive year after year. It
was a day of seasonal excitement, which helps build lasting memories for students and teachers alike.
–Daniel
Offner
� Nurturing Environment: Our school embraces the fundamental v compassion, and respect, fostering a nurturing environment where c flourish and develop their unique talents and capabilities
� Rigorous Academic Program: Enriched with the wisdom of faith, and modern teaching techniques, our curriculum ensures that each child receives a comprehensive education that challenges his/her intellect and encourages a love for learning.
� Spiritual Growth: Alongside a robust academic curriculum, we prioritize spiritual development, guiding children to understand the importance of faith, hope, and charity, laying the foundation for a life rooted in virtues and values
� Creative Expression: Through various art, music, and creative activities, we encourage fostering a well-rounded education that embraces the arts as an integral part of personal growth
� Community Engagement: Our school community is a tight-knit family We believe in the strength of a supportive community to help children thrive and grow �
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito has his sights set on reelection in the 4th Congressional District, where he will face a familiar opponent amid unfamiliar scrutiny over his hiring practices.
A Republican and a former NYPD detective, D’Esposito won his seat in the 2022 midterms, flipping a district that had been in Democratic hands for 25 years. He defeated former Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen that year by a margin of roughly 10,000 votes with a campaign focused on crime, inflation and government spending. He hopes to do it again next week with a renewed focus on border security, crime and the cost of living on Long Island.
But D’Esposito’s re-election bid is under a cloud, with an ethics probe questioning whether he improperly hired his fiancée’s daughter and a woman he allegedly had a personal relationship with for taxpayer-funded positions in his office. During a Herald Roundtable on Oct. 10, D’Esposito made it clear that he views the allegations as baseless. “There is absolutely nothing that was violated ethically, and my personal life is my personal life,” he said, asserting that if there had been any ethical questions, he would not have made those hires.
In spite of the allegations, D’Esposito remains focused on issues central to residents of his district. He emphasized that he has been instrumental in securing millions in federal funding for local infrastructure projects ranging from water filtration systems to police training facilities. “In the last 18 months, I’ve been able to bring close to $40 million back to the district to help with infrastructure,” he said.
D’Esposito has also positioned himself as a strong supporter of Israel, and has been vocal in his support for sending more aid to Israel in light of renewed con-
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Anthony D’Esposito discussed his re-election campaign in the 4th Congressional District amid controversy over his hiring practices at a Herald Roundtable on Oct. 10.
flicts with Iran and Lebanon following the attack by Hamas last Oct. 7.
“I think the United States of America needs to continue to provide every resource necessary to Israel to eradicate Hamas and any terrorist organization,” he said, criticizing the Biden administration for what he views as a lack of urgency.
Another key issue is the ongoing border crisis. “We have a border security problem,” D’Esposito said, emphasizing the need to shut down the southern border and implement a more stringent asylum process. He noted a Department of Homeland Security briefing where it was revealed that over 420,000 people who
crossed the border illegally had been convicted of crimes in their home countries, including over 13,000 convicted murderers. D’Esposito argued that the Biden administration’s handling of the border has been inadequate, claiming, “The Customs and Border Patrol agents don’t have the resources that they need.”
He remains critical of the administration’s economic and energy policies, and advocates for energy independence, saying, “We need to focus on being more energy independent and stop relying on foreign countries for power.” He also expressed concerns about the national deficit, arguing that it is unsustainable and could have long-term consequences for future generations.
D’Esposito has framed himself as a bipartisan problem solver, willing to work with both sides to achieve results for his district. But he is also aware of the tightrope he walks within his party, having been labeled both a MAGA extremist and a “Republican in Name Only” after calling for the removal of former U.S. Rep. George Santos. D’Esposito said he understands the balance between his own values and party expectations, and will do what he feels is right, regardless of how it may be perceived. “It seems to me I’m doing the right thing and playing the middle,” he said.
As the district becomes a focal point in the national battle for control of the House of Representatives, D’Esposito remains confident in his leadership and his track record of securing federal resources for Long Island.
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Laura Gillen, the Democratic candidate in New York’s 4th Congressional District, is running on a platform focused on tackling the rising cost of living on Long Island, reproductive rights and immigration reform.
“It’s really expensive to live here, and people want relief,” Gillen said during a Herald Roundtable on Oct. 7, adding that this concern came up in nearly every conversation she has had with voters in the district. She is particularly critical of her opponent, U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito for not restoring the state and local tax deduction on income taxes, which was capped during the Trump administration. “My opponent said he was going to restore our SALT deduction. He’s been in the majority for almost two years and has completely failed to do that,” Gillen said, emphasizing that reinstating the deduction, a key issue for many homeowners in Nassau County, would be a top priority if she were elected.
Reproductive rights are also central to Gillen’s campaign, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 decision, ending nearly 50 years of constitutional protection for abortion rights. Gillen stresses the need to protect access to reproductive health care, including abortion, in vitro fertilization and contraception.
“Protecting a woman’s right to choose, protecting the right to access IVF and the right to contraception are things we never thought we’d even have to talk about before the Dobbs decision,” she said. Gillen also pointed to the broader implications of the decision, noting that Republicans are continuing to push for fed-
Laura
eral restrictions on reproductive rights.
Health care, particularly for mental health, is another key focus of Gillen’s campaign. She noted that the country is facing a growing mental health crisis, which affects people of all ages. “It’s affecting our young people, our seniors, our veterans and our law enforcement officers,” she said.
Gillen advocates increasing resources to make mental health services more accessible, reducing the long
wait times many patients face. “Families shouldn’t have to wait weeks to get an appointment for a loved one in crisis,” she said, calling for improvements in insurance coverage for mental health care and for expanding access to care.
Immigration reform is a pressing issue, Gillen said, criticizing Congress for its inaction on the border crisis. She said she is committed to passing comprehensive immigration reform that secures the border while facilitating citizenship for immigrants. “We’ve seen nothing get done to secure our border, to stop the flow of fentanyl, or to create a pathway for citizenship for people who want to come here legally,” she said. Her proposal includes deploying more border agents, using advanced technology like anti-tunneling systems, and improving the asylum process, which she described as “completely broken” due to the long delays in adjudicating claims.
Gillen has also taken a strong stance on national security, particularly in regard to Israel and the increase of antisemitism in this country. “We’ve seen an incredible rise of antisemitism, even before Oct. 7,” she said, referring to last October’s attacks on Israel by Hamas.
Her bipartisan approach to solving these issues grew out of her experience as the first Democratic Hempstead town supervisor in over 100 years. Despite facing a Republican-controlled Town Board, Gillen managed to implement sweeping reforms, including ethics legislation, cutting taxes and modernizing the town’s infrastructure.
“I got things done, and that’s what I plan to do in Congress,” Gillen said. “People want problem-solvers in Congress … We need to get things done and reduce the partisanship that’s holding us back.”
but we can say that the school did not end Mr. Califano’s employment over his sexuality.”
Several parents at Maria Regina disagreed. Many, who said they, too, were aware of Califano’s sexuality, rallied outside St. Agnes Cathedral, in Rockville Centre, last Dec. 29, after learning of his termination. Others created a social media page demanding his return to the school, and an online petition called on Bishop John O. Barres and Pamela Sanders, the Diocese’s superintendent of schools, to reinstate him.
In response, Califano filed a discrimination charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and followed that with a federal civil rights lawsuit in June, alleging that the school and the diocese were in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 for unlawful discrimination and wrongful termination based on his sexual orientation.
Attorneys for the diocese and school sought to have the suit dismissed, arguing that Califano’s claim lacked merit, and that he would “not be unfairly prejudiced” by such an order to dismiss, but Wicks rejected their arguments.
“Michael Califano, Maria Regina School and the Diocese of Rockville Centre have agreed to an amicable reso-
lution,” a joint statement issued by the attorneys for the school, the diocese and Califano obtained by the Herald on Oct.
24, read. “Although the parties strongly believe in their respective legal positions, all parties recognize that the
lengthy litigation process would cause pain and distract from, ultimately, their shared goal: the education and growth of the students of Maria Regina School. Mr. Califano remains steadfast in his faith and will continue to be a devoted parishioner of the diocese.”
The Oct. 14 letter also requested that a court conference initially scheduled for Oct. 22 be postponed as the attorneys worked to finalize the settlement. They expected to submit a formal Stipulation of Dismissal within two weeks, which would officially close the case, according to the document.
Neither the letter nor the subsequent statement, however, indicated whether Califano will resume teaching at the school. He is currently working as a substitute teacher at Wantagh High School.
Califano is the son of Nassau County Police Department officer Michael Califano Sr., who died in the line of duty when a truck hit his patrol car during a traffic stop on the Long Island Expressway in 2011. The truck driver was apparently asleep at the wheel, and pleaded guilty to reckless driving. The Glen Cove Road Bridge over the LIE was named in the senior Califano’s memory after the incident.
Additional reporting by Charles Shaw
Twenty-five years ago, I set up my first classroom at PS 199 in Sunnyside, Queens—filled with thousands of ideas and convinced that I could change the world. I fell in love with every one of those thirty-four first graders. I stayed up all hours cutting, pasting, planning… I remember painting costumes on my parents’ basement floor for the Thanksgiving Assembly at two o’clock in the morning. I was stressed out and mad at myself for signing up to do the first assembly, but the pride I felt when they took the stage left me in awe. I worked with the most passionate, creative, and resolute educators, along with a principal whom I both feared and admired immensely. I fell in love with reading and writing workshops, helped design an entire math curriculum, learned how to advocate for students, and was inspired every day to be better. I walked into that school as a teacher and left an educator, eager to learn more. I started at Watson School in September 2001. I remained convinced I could change the world and instantly fell in love with the nineteen third graders before me. I was up at all hours planning, building curriculum, putting up bulletin boards galore, cutting, pasting, and stressing about being the best I could be. I will never forget where I was when the world changed that year.
I will never forget how protective I instinctively felt over those nineteen students. I was surrounded by supportive, brilliant, inspiring, and caring educators who made me a better person—who saw things in me I didn’t yet see in myself.
Over my twenty-three year career in Rockville Centre, I have been through so much. Life is just like that. I’ve pushed through great setbacks, experienced deep losses, and celebrated great happiness and success. My life has been impacted by so many people—people who changed my world for the better. I have a notebook with the name of every student I have taught here, all 776 of them (departmentalized fifth grade). Each one of them has left a mark on my heart and holds a place in my memory.
As I embark on this new year, in a new grade, I have once again instantly fallen in love with every student sitting before me. I still get up at all hours to harness new ideas, prepare stations, or just read books aligned with my latest educational obsession. I still yearn to be better, to do better, to try new things. I guess that’s the thing about being an educator—you’re just never done, because you will always truly believe that you can change the world, and that’s what keeps us going.
By XIOMARA TRINIDAD PEREZ Herald Intern
SIBSPlace, a nonprofit organization based in Rockville Centre and affiliated with Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, successfully raised more than $300,000 during its annual masquerade fundraiser, dinner and silent auction on Oct. 19 at the Seawane Country Club in Hewlett.
Established in 2000 by a collective of families from the Five Towns, SIBS — Survivorship in Brothers and Sisters — is a cost-free program serving more than 300 children between the ages of 5 and 18 who are coping with the life-threatening illness of a sibling or parent.
SIBSPlace offers these children opportunities to interact with peers facing similar circumstances, to express their feelings and have them validated through verbal, artistic and musical activities.
During the fundraiser gala, the tireless commitment of several individuals was acknowledged. Naginder Singh of Rockville Centre was honored with the Helene Wren Award for her dedication to the community and outstanding service to SIBSPlace.
Singh, 85, is an active member of the Sandel Senior Center, the Lions Club of Rockville Centre, the Mount Sinai South Nassau Veterans Committee, the RVC Homemakers Club and a supporter of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, the Backyard Players and SIBSPlace for many years.
“SIBSPlace is such a wonderful program for the kids,” Singh said. “You know, I can’t say enough how touching it is. It’s very emotional. We are very fortunate to have all these resources within the community. I especially see it in Rockville Centre — the people are very giving.”
This year, the Peninsula Kiwanis Club was honored for its 20-year commitment to SIBSPlace and the Five Towns community. The organization plays a vital role in supporting children’s health, nutrition, education and literacy. Through the years, its dedicated volunteers have been working hard to create a lasting impact on the lives of children at SIBSPlace.
“It was amazing,” Michael Gliner, president of the Peninsula Kiwanis Club, said of the gala fundraiser. “We have been supporting SIBSPlace for years and raised over $150,000 over the years”
Every year, the Peninsula Kiwanis Club hosts a charity basketball game, known as “Hoops For Hope,” to help raise money for the programs at SIBSPlace. According to Gliner, the event also features merchandise and concessions, with all proceeds going directly to support the organization.
Joanna Formont, executive director of SIBSPlace, said she was thrilled with this year’s festivities.
“We are just so grateful to everybody that came out to support us, both in person and through online donations or online participation in our silent auc-
tion,” Formont said. “It was a huge success, and we can’t wait for next year.”
Since its inception 23 years ago, SIBSPlace has expanded significantly, broadening the scope of services offered to families in need, all while maintaining its status as a modest nonprofit organization. In order to sustain its operations, however, the organization hosts various events aimed at raising funds, including a spring benefit concert in March at the Bellmore Playhouse and a charity Bowl-a-Thon at Maple Lanes RVC in May.
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
This November, New Yorkers will have the opportunity to vote on Proposition 1 — a proposed amendment to the state’s constitution, which would expand anti-discrimination protections by adding categories such as ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and pregnancy outcomes.
In a recent letter from Bishop John O. Barres of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, he describes the amendment as “deceptive” regarding claims that it will protect reproductive rights, like access to contraception or an abortion.
“Proposition 1 however does nothing to ensure ‘equal rights’ nor does it have anything to do with the legality of abortion in New York,” Barres states. “In fact, the word ‘abortion’ does not appear anywhere in the proposed amendment.”
According to the Bishop, while Prop 1 is framed as an equal rights measure, its implications could force institutions to adopt policies concerning gender identity.
“Voters will discover that, if adopted, Proposition 1 would prohibit discrimination based upon ‘gender identity’ or ‘gender expression,” Barres states. “This language would transform the laudable and longstanding anti-discrimination article in the State Constitution into a legal weapon that would force institutions across the state — public and private, religious and secular — to accommodate the most radical forms of gender ideology.”
Barres cites an example of how Prop 1 could have an impact on Catholic education by forcing institutions to allow biological males to participate in girls’ sporting events. He further warned that by denying participation could yield legal recourse, which he expressed as an infringement on religious freedom.
His concerns with Prop 1 further extended to employment practices, which he stated could lead to future lawsuits over whether the Church refuses to
hire or retain employees whose views or identities conflict with its teachings, and Catholic hospitals, which he fears may be required to perform gender-related surgeries under threat of legal consequences of discrimination.
Barres, in his letter, emphasized how the state constitution already provides robust protections against discrimination, questioning the need for Prop 1.
“New York’s Constitution has, for nearly a century, expressly prohibited discriminatory practices,” he wrote. “Proposition 1 does nothing to enhance the universally accepted principle of equality before the law.”
Nonpartisan advocacy groups, including the League of Women Voters and the South Shore Women’s Alliance have been working to help spread the word and educate voters about Prop 1.
These groups contend that the amendment is vital to strengthening protections to ensure equal rights so that no individually can be discriminated against based on age, disability, gender identity, national origin, or pregnancy outcomes.
“This proposal will actually embed protections in the constitution, which are really important,” Susan Gottehrer, director of the New York Civil Liberties Union for Nassau County, said back in August. “It will put reproductive health care, including abortion, pregnancy and contraception, under the guise of sex discrimination.”
According to the New York State Bar Association, the constitution currently only prohibits discrimination based on race and religion. This would further ensure access to reproductive health care by making it so politicians cannot ban or restrict contraception or health care options.
Barres, however, insists the amendment’s language could be used to enforce controversial gender policies and restrict religious freedom.
Because of the inclusion of Prop 1 on the ballot, the outcome of the election will likely have significant implications on the future of anti-discrimination practices.
In September, the National Council of Jewish Women’s South Shore Section, together with the Lakeville and Peninsula sections on Long Island, hosted its annual luncheon. During the event, a member or group from each section was honored for outstanding advocacy, either locally in their communities or nationally.
This year, the South Shore Section
honored its long-standing Senior Club, which has been active for 75 years. The Senior Club originally provided services to seniors in the community. Today, it offers a welcoming and stimulating environment on Mondays and Wednesdays for duplicate bridge and mahjong, along with sculpture and painting classes, trips, and holiday lunches at the Rockville Centre recreation center.
By Carolyn James cjames@liherald.com
With partisan politics in high gear less than two weeks before Election Day, Long Island politicians — Republicans and Democrats — gathered in a bipartisan show of support for an effort to bring more federal funding for road and infrastructure projects to Nassau and Suffolk counties.
“This is not a Republican or a Democratic issue — it is a state and federal issue,” U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi said at a news conference on Oct. 23 at the Long Island Welcome Center on the Long Island Expressway in Dix Hills. “It is about government, labor, business and people and everyone, regardless of party. It is about coming together,” Suozzi added, with the roar of traffic along the expressway providing an appropriate backdrop.
The gathering of politicians, business and labor representatives
was to support a bill in the State Legislature, sponsored by Assemblyman Steve Stern and State Sen. Monica Martinez, that would create a mechanism for Long Island to apply directly for federal transportation dollars. As things stand now, the state must apply to the federal government for infrastructure funding through the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council, which includes not only Long Island, but also New York City as well as Westchester, Putnam and Rockland counties. Under the proposed legislation, Long Island would create its own Metropolitan Planning Organization to address its infrastructure needs specifically, officials said.
The need for this autonomy became abundantly clear to Long Island lawmakers several years ago. Under the current NYMTC guidelines, Long Island was slated to receive 23 percent of federal funding allocated to the state. That
figure dropped to 1 percent, or $300 million, this year. And according to officials, almost all of that will be spent on renovations to electric signs along local highways, and road repairs. It allows for practically nothing for expansive work or new projects.
Some of those projects were outlined by Marc Herbst, executive director of the Long Island Contractors Association. They include work to reconfigure the Oakdale merge, where Sunrise and Montauk highways converge; the intersection of the Meadowbrook and Southern State parkways; the expansion of Sagtikos Parkway to four lanes to make them safer; and work on the Southern State Parkway, which Herbst described as “blood alley.”
“How many more tragedies do we have to have along that roadway before we address those issues and others?” he said.
“This is more important than
party,” State Sen. Jack Martins said. “It is not about politics; it is about our communities, our homes, our residents — and fairness.”
“This is not an adversarial issue,” Herbst added, pointing to the need for Long Island to have an independent voice when vying for federal funding.
“Long Island is a place unlike any other, and with that distinction comes the reality that we have unique needs,” Martinez said. “Our infrastructure and transportation systems must be as bold and resilient as the people who call this region home in order to thrive in an ever-changing world.”
Adam Levine, executive director of the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council, said that he and the council understand that “Long Island officials want to get every federal dollar they can,” and that it recognizes the impacts of bureaucracy.
Party
Democratic
Republican
Conservative
Working Families
Common Sense
Presidential Electors for President (Vote for One)
Kamala Harris
Donald J. Trump
Donald J. Trump
Kamala Harris
Some Democrats are too far left.Some Republicans are too far right.But some candidates just make COMMON SENSE.
About Common Sense
The Common Sense Party looks at both Democrats and Republicans running for office. And then nominates the one who’s most reasonable, who thinks for themself. Who can compromise to get things done. In Nassau County, that’s Laura GIllen.
So this November, find the "Common Sense Party" on your ballot.
Representative in Congress (4th District) (Vote for One)
Laura Gillen
Anthony D’Esposito
Anthony D’Esposito
Laura Gillen
By JENNA ZAZA & LORI SAXENA Special to the Herald
Project 2025’s agenda to restructure the government extends beyond the Fed and into education, proposing to completely eliminate the Department of Education. This is a contentious move that could have profound repercussions for public education on Long Island.
The DOE plays a significant role in supporting local education by providing funding to high-poverty schools and increasing programs designed to protect and serve vulnerable students, such as those with disabilities or in the LGBTQ+ community.
Eliminating the department means drastically reducing federal funding streams and eventually phasing out Title I, a federal program that provides financial assistance to schools with a high percentage of low-income students, according to a Chalkbeat report. Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news organization focused on education issues.
Title I aims to ensure all children, regardless of socio-economic status, meet state academic standards by funding programs like after-school tutoring and teacher development. Schools can operate schoolwide improvement initiatives if they meet certain thresholds of low-income students.
“When you eliminate funding, the things that get cut are teacher salaries, teachers get laid off, class sizes get bigger, and you have less counseling services, less paraprofessional services ... all of that is eliminated when you don’t have Title I funding,” Jillian Gaeta, co-founder of the organization Roots to Revolution and a New York City public school teacher, said.
Nearly half of Suffolk County’s total public school enrollment is economically disadvantaged students at 44 percent, in Nassau County it is 32 percent, according to the State Education Department. Districts such as Huntington, Central Islip and Brentwood 63 percent, 66 and 88, of the students are from low-income households, respectively, according to state statistics.
Project 2025 also proposes to reduce eligibility for federally funded meal programs.
Funding impact
The potential rollback of programs like the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program under Project 2025 could exacerbate the lack of access to food on Long Island. In recent years, the number of food-insecure individuals on the island has surged, increasing by 58.3 percent since 2021, with an estimated 65,000 children affected, according to a Long Island Cares report.
Over 60 percent of students in lower-income districts like Brentwood and Hempstead qualify for free lunch and breakfast, indicating a substantial reliance on federal aid programs, according to Meals Count data. Meanwhile, wealthier districts like Jericho and Great Neck in Nassau County, where less than 10 percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, would be less affected by federal cuts, according to state data.
“In the schools that I’ve worked in, 80 percent of students were receiving free and reduced lunch,” Gaeta said. “If you take away that ability, you now have 80 percent of your kids hungry. You can’t educate those kids; they’re struggling because all they’re focusing on is how their bellies aren’t full.”
Long Island is also seeing a surge in school lunch debt, according to a Healthy School Meals for All report. The Lindenhurst school district reported nearly $50,000 in unpaid school lunch fees and South Huntington said meal debt doubled from $20,000 after the pandemic. Wealthy districts often benefit from higher property tax revenues, which can be used to supplement educational programs. Low-income districts typically struggle with limited funding and resources, making it challenging to provide basic services, let alone additional support for meal programs.
But it’s not just lunch — early childhood education
A portion of Project 2025 aims to roll back progress made on programs and laws that are designed to protect and serve vulnerable people such as the LGBTQ community.
programs are also on the chopping block under Project 2025.
Whither Head Start?
Head Start is a federal initiative that promotes school readiness for young children from low-income families. It serves children aged 3 to 5, focusing on cognitive, social, and emotional development alongside health screenings and nutritious meals. The program is critical in preparing disadvantaged children for elementary school and fostering long-term academic success.
“Early education programs ... are foundational for a child’s ability to thrive in school, and also for their economic security, that they are able to read and write and develop those skills at an early age,” Gaeta said.
In Nassau County, the availability of Head Start programs is concentrated in districts with higher rates of low-income families. Out of eight Head Start locations, many are in areas with higher child poverty rates.
The Head Start programs in Hempstead, Freeport and Roosevelt illustrate this trend. Hempstead, with a child poverty rate of nearly 21 percent, and Roosevelt, where nearly 17 percent of children live in poverty, highlights communities that heavily rely on these educational resources. Freeport, with around 14 percent of children living in poverty, further emphasizes the critical need for support in these districts. The figures are based on Census Bureau data.
Child poverty rates in Westbury (14 percent), Lawrence (10 percent), and Long Beach (6 percent) demonstrate a varied landscape where families may still benefit from Head Start programs, although the urgency may differ.
More affluent districts like Garden City, Syosset, and East Williston, which report child poverty rates of less than 5 percent, do not have any Head Start locations. Wealthier families often have access to private preschools and other early childhood programs.
Another proposal of Project 2025 includes a rollback of Title IX, a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance, including sports.
“Title IX, which allows girls to play sports and opens up opportunities for young girls, is also supported and protected by the federal government,” Gaeta said. “So if you eliminate the Federal Department of Education, you’re eliminating all those benefits that our kids need to have successful schools.”
Rolling back Title IX could also disproportionately
impact non-binary and transgender students as the project aims to “define ‘sex’ under Title IX to mean only biological sex.”
“Long Island is already seeing pieces of Project 2025 being enacted,” Kiana Abbady, board chair of Long Island Progressive Coalition, said. “[Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman] already passed a transban, where individuals cannot play sports if they identify as transgender.”
In Nassau County 10 school districts — Island Park, Jericho, Lawrence, Locust Valley, Long Beach, Mineola, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Oyster Bay and Port Washington — are set to lose funding, based on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed 2025 executive budget.
“If any parts of Project 2025 are enacted, we will see large swaths of Long Island’s communities, predominantly black and brown, predominantly working class, lose significant funding for public schools,” Abbady said. “We already see that. ”
Extracurricular activities, such as sports, are typically the first to be cut when schools experience dips in funding, and this could have adverse effects on students. Research indicates that participation in sports is linked to numerous benefits for both girls and transgender youth, including improved academic performance, higher self-esteem, and greater overall well-being.
In underfunded districts, girls often have 1.3 million fewer opportunities than boys to engage in athletic programs, according to the National Women’s Law Center. Exclusionary policies for trans youth like Nassau County’s Legislature and Project 2025 Title IX reforms could exacerbate rates of depression, school absenteeism and suicide in trans students, which are already significantly higher than for cis-gender students.
Without the federal enforcement of Title IX and adequate funding, the gap in opportunities between wellfunded and underfunded schools could widen, leaving many girls and LGBTQ youth without access to the necessary resources for their athletic and educational advancement.
Gaeta said this is ultimately the goal of Project 2025.
“It is designed to benefit wealthy, wealthy white men,” she said. “All of the projects, all the policies in Project 2025, will hurt low-income families, will hurt middle-class families, will hurt women and girls, will hurt LGBTQ families, will hurt people of color. It is designed that way.”
Jenna Zaza and Lori Saxena are reporters with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
Amendment to Protect Against Unequal Treatment
This proposal would protect against unequal treatment based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, and sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity and pregnancy. It also protects against unequal treatment based on reproductive healthcare and autonomy.
A “YES” vote puts these protections in the New York State Constitution.
A “NO” vote leaves these protections out of the State Constitution.
Enmienda para Proteger Contra el Trato Desigual
Esta propuesta protegería contra el trato desigual basado en la etnicidad, el origen nacional, la edad, la discapacidad y el sexo, incluida la orientación sexual, la identidad de género y el embarazo. También protege contra el trato desigual basado en la salud y la autonomía reproductiva.
Un voto “SÍ” coloca estas protecciones en la Constitución del Estado de Nueva York.
Un voto “NO” deja estas protecciones fuera de la Constitución del Estado.
November 05, 2024 NASSAU COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS ROCKVILLE CENTRE
Electores para Presidente y Vicepresidente
Kamala D. Harris (For President)
This is not an actual by your edition of the Herald. Specific Herald may be found at LIHerald.com
Tim Walz (For Vice President)
Electores para Presidente y Vicepresidente
Donald J. Trump (For President)
JD Vance (For Vice President)
Representante en el Congreso Distrito 4 Vote for One (1)
Laura Gillen (D,CS)
Senador Estatal, Distrito
Kirsten E. Gillibrand (D, WF)
Diane Sare (L)
Anthony D’Esposito (R,C)
(1)
Michael D. Sapraicone (R,C)
Justice Juez
Gregg Deanna Terence
County
Jeffrey State
actual ballot, but a composite of several sample ballots so as to reflect all the districts within the communities covered Specific candidates for individual communities are identified in blue. Complete reporting on candidates running in districts covered by the LIHerald.com under the Elections ’24 tab. For election results after the polls close Tuesday night, go to LIHerald.com
Estatal, Distrito 6
Bynoe (D) Thomas Philip Montenfinise (R,C)
de la Asamblea Distrito 21
Griffin (D) Brian Curran (R,C)
for One (1)
Juez del Tribunal de Familia
Lisa Daniels (D,R,C)
Chris J. Coschignano (D,R,C)
Juez del Tribunal de Distrito
Andrea C. Phoenix (D,R,C) Veronica Renta Irwin (D,R,C)
Ryan E. Cronin (D,R,C) Sean Wright (D,R,C)
la Corte Suprema (Vote for up to Eight) (8)
F. Matthews, Jr. (D,R,C)
Roth (D,R,C)
Deanna D. Panico (D,R,C)
Terence P. Murphy (D,R,C)
Tribunal del Condado
Jeffrey A. Goodstein(D,R,C)
Alfred C. Graf (D,R,C)
Paul E. Hennings (D,R,C)
Paul M. Hensley (D,R,C)
Andrew A. Crecca (D,R,C)
(4)
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
The Children’s Athletic Training School received the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce’s Angel Award on Oct. 24 for its ongoing support of children and families in the community.
Marissa Heitshusen, a Rockville Centre parent, was expecting the arrival of her newborn son, Christopher “Kip” Welles, when she unexpectedly went into labor — 14 weeks before he was due.
Both she and her son required lifesaving blood transfusions due to the emergency delivery. Kip’s transfusion was immediately administered, however, after a difficult delivery, Heitshusen was told she would have to wait until more was available due to an emergency blood shortage that continues to affect millions of residents across the New York area.
To raise awareness of the need for blood donations, especially during childbirth, Heitshusen and her friend, Michelle Foley, coordinated a blood drive with the New York Blood Center in hopes of saving lives.
Jami Madison, the owner of CATS, reached out as a friend of the family, after reading about Heitshusen’s story online, to see if her business could help out in some way.
Heitshusen’s daughter, Charlotte, a student at Hewitt Elementary School,
takes tennis lessons at CATS on weekends, and her son, Weston, has been part of the afterschool program there for two years.
To try and help Heitschusen’s efforts, Madison encouraged members of the local business community and Molloy University athletes to donate and spread the word about the cause.
The event was a success, with nearly
100 people donating blood. Thanks to the community’s generosity, the New York Blood Center collected enough whole blood, red blood cells, platelets and plasma to help save more than 300 lives.
“Jami (Madison) has always gone above and beyond for countless kids and their families,” Hempstead Town Councilwoman Laura Ryder said on Face -
book. “Wishing her continued success and many more impactful years ahead. It was truly an honor to celebrate this incredible achievement with her.” Madison and CATS staff were joined by Heitshusen and her family, along with Ryder, Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray, U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, and members of the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce, to receive the 2024 Angel Award in recognition of the company’s contributions to support families like Heitshusen and others and the impact it has had on the community.
“This is such a beautiful and welldeserved moment for CATS,” Heitshusen said. “We have, and I think a lot of families in this community have, spent so much time here and CATS has given so much to us. It’s a beautiful thing.”
Kip was born at just 26-and-a-half weeks and Heitshusen and her husband were afraid he wasn’t going to make it. He spent his early months in North Shore University Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit. During that time, Madison and the CATS staff offered to do whatever they could to help out Heitshusen’s two older children.
“It actually saved us at a time when we were struggling the most,” Heitshusen said. “You go above and beyond. You’ve truly helped us. You’ve blessed and touched so many families, and we’re all really so grateful.”
By Danielle Schwab & Tim Baker
Havana Munsuz
Age 9, Locust Valley
My mom (Lenia Matias). I think she would make equal rights for every person. She supports LGBTQ rights, and she’s also a woman. All the presidents are boys, and we should have a girl as a president. We read a book about the election together.
Nicholas Kemp
Age 5, East Rockaway
I want Aaron Judge to be president but I (also) don’t want him because he’s playing baseball and he won’t hit any more home runs. If he was president I think he would be so happy.
Michael Lutz
Age 7, Rockville Centre
My dad (Eric Donohoe) because he’s basically like Donald Trump. Also, my mom (Shannon Donohoe) because she’s technically almost the same as my dad. She would get more jobs in America, put the prices down so if it was $3 it would be $2 and she would get more American-made products
Amelia Geraghty
Age 8, East Meadow
I think John F. Kennedy because if he ever did something wrong, his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy would have stood up for civil rights for women. I don’t think he would do anything wrong. And he was also young (when he was president). The older you are, the more you forget. I’ve read a lot of books about him and Jacqueline Kennedy.
As estate planning lawyers, we experience the lives — and deaths — of a great many of our clients. Being exposed to death on a regular basis prevents us from “sleepwalking” through life and fosters a keen awareness of our being alive.
“In our Western culture, although death has come out of the closet, it is still not openly experienced or discussed. Allowing dying to be so intensely present enriches both the preciousness of each moment and our detachment from it.”
— Ram Dass
“If we’re not reflecting on the impermanent nature of life, then there are a lot of unimportant things that seem important.”
— Allison Choying Zangmo
“Remembering that I’ll be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life.”
— Steve Jobs
“Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now, take what’s left and live it properly.”
— Marcus Aurelius
”We drift on a chartless, resistless sea. Let us sing while we can, and forget the rest.”
— H. P. Lovecraft
“Death is not waiting for us at the end of a long road. Death is always with us, in the marrow of every passing moment. She is the secret teacher hiding in plain sight, helping us to discover what matters most.”
— Frank Ostaseski
“Never mind. Never mind. In this brief life, one cannot always be counting the cost.”
— Christopher Isherwood
Oddly enough, contemplating death may be one of the most life-affirming experiences one can have.
Tasnim and Taha Laghroudi
Tasnim, age 8; Taha, age 10, Wantagh
My teacher Ms. Sanders (my third grade teacher) would make a good president because she’s really fun and she’s very serious so we do our work instead of just playing around the whole time. Teachers are hard working and they’ve been through a lot of lessons and teachings, and they’re responsible for people in their class.
Please join us at our
a
to Girl Scouts of Nassau County Fall Fundraiser
Thursday, November 21, 2024 6:00 PM-9:00 PM The Inn at New Hyde Park Tuscany Room
Embark on a journey as we experience food and wine from around the world to benefit Girl Scouts of Nassau County.
To purchase tickets visit: gsnc.org/raise-a-glass
By Danielle Schwab
A tradition since 2010, the popular Long Island Biennial at Hecksher Museum returns with “The Body Politic,” shining the spotlight on our diverse artistic talent throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
The latest edition of the juried exhibition — now on view through mid-January — offers an exciting look at what is happening artistically here in our area.
Out of 313 submissions, 79 were accepted from 60 artists, resulting in a vivid assortment of mediums, styles and focuses on exhibit. Curated by Meredith A. Brown, the museum’s consulting curator of Contemporary Art, each piece was reviewed by an expert jury team. The panel included Ian Alteveer, department chair of contemporary art at the Museum of Fine Arts; Patricia Cronin, artistic director of the LGBTQ+ VR Museum, art professor and sculptor; Grace Hong, assistant director of Galerie Lelong & Co.
The exhibit takes on a theme for the first time — examining contemporary social, cultural and political issues. It’s a snapshot of some of the major national, local and even international matters that compel artists in this important election year.
“Sixty countries — taken together, representing half the world’s population, including the United States — will have held major elections by the end of this year,” Brown says.
“It’s a crucial year. And we thought it would be interesting to see how the people, the artists in our communities, are thinking about these political, social, cultural issues — and representing them through art.”
The exhibit represents a remarkable variety of media, with styles spanning abstraction to hyperrealism, including sculpture, painting, photography, and collage. One pieceis even composed with cut plastic straws and lighters found on a beach.
“I’m always interested in the way artists can combine things that I wouldn’t have thought of, sometimes materials that are ‘non-art’ materials,” Brown adds.
East Meadow’s Karen Kirshner is among the artists featured. Her abstract acrylic painting “The Mission, 2022” employs a “direct painting” technique that enables her to use her emotions to paint onto the canvas.
“I never know what I’m going to paint. I paint in the moment, moment to moment, and then
and for the
review and evaluate and adapt and improve,” Kirshner explains.
She was influenced by the war in Ukraine, with so many trying to flee. Her movement of lines, shapes and vibrancy of colors expresses the Ukrainians’ frantic energy.
“I felt in my soul,” Kirshner says. “The mission is to get people out.”
Maria Spector, of Babylon, is represented with two paintings: “Candy Girls and Boys Under the Jellybean Tree, 2022 ” and “Candy Girls Under the Sugar-Plum Tree with Boy and the Artists that Painted Women 2020-22.”
In “Candy Girls and Boys Under the Jellybean Tree“ contemporary figures of children are mixed with images from art history, fine art and popular culture — all under a tree ‘ripe’ with various candies.
• Now through Jan. 19
• Open Thursday through Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
• Heckscher Museum of Art,
2 Prime Ave., Huntington
• Visit Heckscher.org for more information or call (631) 380-3230
“By incorporating pop culture, I explore issues of femininity and masculinity through both history and today. The work is meant to challenge our own biases and beliefs,” Spector says.
Another standout, Lynbrook’s Susan Kozodoy Silkowitz captures her vision through photography. “Pink Shoes, 2022” is a testament to freedom of expression without discrimination. The male in pink platform shoes was snapped outside of Fashion Institute of Technology.
“I’ve been photographing people for 50 years. It took me many years to be able to do what I do, which is approach and photograph people on the street,” Kozodoy Silkowitz says. “I think it’s a wonderful thing to see people who are unafraid to express who they are, although some people may disapprove.”
Visitors can contribute their own voice to what’s on view and how they relate to community and identity through a collage of messages on the response wall.
It’s all part of the museum’s effort to encourage artistic reflection through times of great change, inspiring us to engage with narratives in a new light.
As Brown puts it: “It helps the artists and it helps those of us who are not artists to think about the diversity of artists and viewpoints and opinions in these communities in which we live, and in that way, hopefully it can broaden people’s views of their communities, of where we are.”
As always, the exhibit experience is enhanced by related programming. The participating artists will be in the galleries on select Sundays throughout the exhibition period to engage with visitors, as well as taking part in upcoming museum and community events.
Mike DelGuidice, one of Long Island’s celebrated singersongwriters returns to The Paramount, with special guests. The band always gives it their all, especially when playing the iconic Billy Joel songs. DelGuidice leads his ensemble in a rousing concert that highlights the Piano Man’s decades of hits. Like his idol, DelGuidice grew up mastering several instruments including bass guitar, guitar, piano, and drums. He’s renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge of the Joel catalog, which caught the attention of Joel himself, who ultimately brought him on stage with him. DelGuidice and his band pack hit after charttopping hit in a high energy show that’s always a crowd pleaser. The concert delights audiences with renditions of classic rock favorites and his own eclectic originals.
Friday and Saturday, Nov. 1-2, 8 p.m. $60, $40, $25, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
The perennial classic rock favorite is back on the road again as founding member Dewey Bunnell celebrates the band’s 54th anniversary, appearing on the Tilles Center stage. Billed as “Ride On Tour 2024, it draws on the band’s deep catalog of hits including signature song “A Horse With No Name,” a #1 hit on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1972. Bunnell and America’s co-founder Gerry Beckley (along with former bandmate Dan Peek), who met in high school in London in the late 1960s, quickly harmonized their way to the top of the charts on the strength of that tune. Forty plus years later, these friends continue to make music together (although Beckley has now retired from touring) thrilling audiences with their timeless sound. Yet beyond their impressive catalog of hits, listeners discovered there was always much more to America than surface perceptions.
Saturday, Nov. 2, 8 p.m.
Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Ailey II, which bills itself as “the next generation of dance,” continues its 50th anniversary of bringing “off-the-charts energy” to the stage, with a performance at Tilles Center, Friday, Nov. 8 , at 8 p.m. Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers.
8
The 2024-25 repertory features two world premieres by former Ailey II member Alia Kache and by Houston Thomas, as well as repertory favorites and beloved classics. Founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble and led by Sylvia Waters for 38 seasons, Ailey II has advanced Alvin Ailey’s vision for more than five decades by giving early-career dancers a bridge from world-class training at The Ailey School to the professional stage. Led by Artistic Director Francesca Harper, Ailey II’s dancers bring their technical mastery and emotional depth to works by the most daring established and emerging choreographers. Just as Ailey envisioned, the company continues to develop the next generation of performers and dancemakers while expanding audiences through global touring and community-based performances.
The program includes Alvin Ailey’s Streams, an abstract exploration of bodies in space, danced to a percussion score by Miloslav Kabelac; Houston Thomas’ world premiere Down the Rabbit Hole, a continuation of the choreographer’s Follow the White Rabbit (2022) that expands on its themes, examining the relationship between humans and technology; also Francesca Harper’s Luminous, a work that pays homage to the 50th anniversary of Ailey II and the artists who paved the way for future generations. Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
‘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 concludes Thursday and Friday,oct. 31-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.
The highly anticipated fashion show, hosted by the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition, returns to the runway, Friday, Nov. 1, at the illustrious Garden City Hotel. Enjoy an evening of food, fashion and fun in celebration of survivors, 7-11 p.m., featuring fashions provided by Bloomingdales. This year’s event honors Nicole Graziano. For more information and details visit RVCBCC.org. 45 7th St., Garden City.
Don’t miss out on this special performance of the South Shore Symphony, Friday, Nov. 1, at the Madison Theatre at Molloy University. Program includes “The Wreckers: Overture” by English composer and suffragette Dame Ellen Smyth, “Ma Vlast: 2. The Moldau” by Czech composer Bedřich Smetana and “Symphony No. 1 in C minor, op. 68” by Johannes Brahms. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30. For more information visit MadisonTheatreNY.org.
Join Adelphi University’s talented theater students who perform Caryl Churchill’s “Love and Information,”
Thursday and Friday, Oct. 31Nov. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 2, 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 3, 2 p.m. More than 100 characters in over 50 short scenes try to make sense of what they know and what they find out.
Tickets start at $3. Olmsted Theater, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.
St. Agnes Knights of Columbus Council 2548 celebrates 100 years of service to the Rockville Centre parish and community at 5 p.m. Mass, Saturday, Nov. 2, at St. Agnes Cathedral. The celebration continues with music, food and fun in the Parish Center. $50 per person. Contact Grand Knight Joe D’Aleo at (917) 682-1475 for more info and to purchase tickets.
The Rockville Centre Police Benevolent Association hosts its second annual fall drive-up food drive event, Saturday, Nov. 2, to benefit the Hispanic Brotherhood Food Pantry. Drop off nonperishable food items at Rockville Centre Police Headquarters, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Some key items requested include rice, tomato sauce, pasta, canned vegetables, beans, vegetable oil, tuna and juice. 142 Maple Ave.
The next meeting of the Village of Rockville Centre Board of Trustees takes place at Village Hall, Monday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. 1 College Place.
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues Saturday, Nov. 2, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork.
Kids and their adult partners connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for more information and to register or call (516) 484-9337.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
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 spans 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.
Board games from days gone by
Enjoy an evening of learning and playing historic games at Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House, Friday, Nov. 8, 7-9:30 p.m. The Long Island Tabletop Gaming Expo takes visitors on journey through 5,000 years of board game history, from its roots in ancient times to more familiar examples from the time of the Phipps family. A brief lecture on board game history includes a presentation of each of the featured games. All are fully playable, and you can try them out yourself.
Games include: Senet, The Royal Game of Ur, Three Man’s Morris, Six Man’s Morris, Nine Man’s Morris, Twelve Man’s Morris, Mancala, Go, Chess, The Royal and Most Pleasant Game of The Goose, Backgammon. The Landlords Game (transition to the modern Monopoly). $15. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
The John A. Anderson Recreation Center in Rockville Centre held a lively Halloween celebration, inviting families to enjoy a festive afternoon filled with costumes, music, and spooky activities.
The event began outside Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground, where participants of all ages—dressed as witches, skeletons, monsters, and other Halloween characters—paraded through the grounds alongside friends and family to welcome the upcoming holiday.
DJ Pace energized the crowd with a mix of Halloween hits, including the iconic “Monster Mash,” creating an upbeat atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Following the parade, attendees gathered inside the Recreation Center, where they could participate in a variety of games and activities designed to capture the spirit of the season.
This community event brought together local families for an afternoon of fun, laughter, and Halloween-themed excitement, leaving both children and parents with lasting memories of a spirited celebration.
LEGAL NOTICE
FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
In the Matter of an Article 10 Neglect Proceeding File#:634865
Docket#:NN-05728-24
Nassau County Department of Social Services (Petitioner) Victoria Nolan (Respondent) Baby Girl Nolan (DOB: 07/07/2024)
SUMMONS-PUBLICATION (IN PERSON)
To:Victoria Nolan
A petition under Article 10 of the Family Court Act has been filed with this Court requesting the following reliefs: Neglect. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear IN PERSON before this Court on:
Date/Time/Part:November 19, 2024 at 09:00 AM in Part 2
Purpose:Conference
Presiding:Hon. Robin M. Kent
Location: Courthouse, 1200 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590
Floor:3
Room:303 to answer the attached petition and to be dealt with in accordance with the Family Court Act. Please bring this notice with you and check in with the Court Officer in the Part.
Be sure to arrive at the courthouse prior to the time listed above. Do not be late as there is a limited window of time for your case to be heard. If you fail to appear as directed, a warrant may be issued for
your arrest.
Dated: October 7, 2024
John Aiken, Chief Clerk TO THE ABOVENAMED RESPONDENT: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Robin M. Kent of the Family Court, Nassau County, dated and filed with the petition and other papers in the Office of the Clerk of the Family Court, Nassau County. 149428
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
Mortgage Assets Management, LLC,, Plaintiff AGAINST Nassau County Public Administrator, as Limited Administrator of the Estate of Yolande E. Bayard-Gaston a/k/a Yolande Gaston; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 17, 2023 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on November 14, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 1180 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of NY,
Section 38 Block 105 Lot 153. Approximate amount of judgment $506,388.47 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 607221/2017. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Peter Kramer, Esq., Referee- (516) 510-4020
LOGS Legal Group LLP
f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: September 25, 2024 149408
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY
COMPANY. NAME: Curated Concierge, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 10/11/24. location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to:12 Vanderveer Court,RVC NY 11570
Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 149581
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Public Hearing Village of Rockville Centre Nassau County, New York
Meeting Date: November 4, 2024
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 330 Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Exterior Design Review Board of the Village of Rockville Centre will have a Public Hearing at the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall, 1 College Place, Rockville Centre
LEGAL NOTICE
November 4, 2024 at 7:00 PM Case No. 11-2024
Gregory Stanclik 29 Allen Road Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Description: Second Story addition, one-story side addition, open front porch, and outdoor pavilion in rear yard. Premises known as: 29 Allen Road
The Exterior Design Review Board OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE
Eugene Murray Village Hall, Rockville Centre, New York
George Bella, Chairperson of the consultants to The Exterior Design Review Board
Thomas Domanico, Secretary to The Consultants Information and records for Exterior Design Review cases are available the Office of the Secretary, 110 Maple Avenue, RVC 149737
your ad to: 516-622-7460
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
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
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
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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 jbessen@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
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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
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 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop.
CRUZ SERAG Caregivers Provide The Best Male/ Female Caregivers In America. Certified HHA's,
Welcome to 7 Granada Pl in Massapequa. This stunning Fort Lauderdale-style waterfront colonial, newly constructed in 2023, epitomizes luxurious living. Offering 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 elegantly designed baths, this property showcases top-tier upgrades throughout. Inside, you’ll find exquisite 6” white oak floors and a show stopping Calacatta quartz infinity island in a gourmet kitchen outfitted with Wolf and Miele appliances. The master suite includes a private Trex balcony, a steam shower, and radiant heated floors for your comfort. The outdoor space is an entertainer's dream, featuring a waterfront view, saltwater heated pool, a serene bluestone fountain, and a brand-new Trex
Q. I’m looking to sell my home, and I’m stunned by the cost of homes these days. My daughter’s family had to move out of the area, not because they needed better jobs, but because their jobs couldn’t pay enough to afford a home, and my wife and I could only help a little. Do you see any hope for housing to be made more affordable? Are there less costly ways to build that could help young people get a foothold on the American Dream? What do you think?
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A. Yes, there are many ways to make homes more affordable, but the way to make it happen is very complicated, and I doubt that you’ll see it happen. Think of people, our economy, our system of living arrangements, our communities, separately or combined into large entities, as being like a large woven fabric. There are many threads in this fabric, many colors and textures and many ways the threads are woven, some over, some under and some straight through. Pull at one part of the fabric, poke at another, and the whole composition ruffles, wrinkles, even tears and starts to unravel.
Now, think of how much each thread costs, how someone puts a price on that thread because of its location, its color, its finish within the fabric. That one thread is now thought of as more expensive, special and exclusive. Others see that thread and decide their threads are pretty darn special, too. Soon every thread goes up in value, and anyone trying to weave a new thread into the fabric, or trying to buy that thread, must be in compliance with the costs, rules and location.
Regulators who decide where different threads can be placed, how big or small those threads can be and what they can look like, are people. People are threads in the fabric. Your kids are threads who may or may not find a way to be woven into the fabric as other threads disintegrate or are pulled away. Government, financial institutions, property associations, neighbors and you have to all cooperate to make the fabric stay together.
It’s possible that when enough people refuse to buy a thread or be a thread, then the value of threads diminishes. The cost of making a thread — a home or a commercial building — keeps increasing, so the cost of the components has to be brought down. But the people who make those components have to get paid. Do we cut their salaries? It’s all connected, like a complicated woven fabric in which everything has to work together.
There’s currently a nationwide shortage of housing units and a limited inventory of homes for sale, possibly because it costs more for less, so people are reluctant to move. Prices, the cost of materials, the regulated size of homes, and profit margins for sellers and lenders all need to be reduced. Does anyone see that happening, or do we wait for the fabric to become brittle and start to come apart to respond? 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.
Registration for the free Statewide UPK lottery at the Jewish Early Learning Center of Merrick is scheduled for Friday, 11/1 from 9:00am to 10:00am at 2174 Hewlett Avenue, Suite 100 in Merrick, N.Y. Please bring 2 proofs of residence and your child's original birth certificate. Please also bring a copy of each proof of residence and the birth certificate. Eligible children must reside in Freeport and turn 4 by 12/1/25 to qualify. SAVE
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The other day, I was browsing my LinkedIn feed and came across an illustration that caught my eye. There were three glass jars, all the same size, each containing a black ball. The first jar’s ball filled the jar. The second jar’s ball was smaller, and the third was tiny. A caption read, “People tend to believe that grief shrinks over time.”
Underneath was another set of jars, increasing from small to large. This time the balls were the same size, filling the first jar entirely, and as the jars grew larger, it was as if the jar was growing around the ball. The caption read, “What really happens is that we grow around our grief.”
Grief is universal. Some grieve when a favorite restaurant closes, while others mourn a pet or a relationship. But what about a parent grieving the loss of a child? As a father of two daughters, I can’t fathom losing one of them. The thought gives me a pit in my stomach. I can only imagine the pain becoming part of me, like an organ or an appendage. In theory, I agree with the illustration’s message. It offers context to the
Wunfathomable. But what if your child were murdered? Would that change things? What if the murder were preventable? I hope to never find out. Unfortunately, it’s a reality for many families, especially because of fentanyl.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard of fentanyl. Most likely, you know someone who has died from it or has been affected in some way. Kids are dying, and families are being torn apart. You might be mistaken if you think it’s not happening in your neighborhood.
ICDC:
■ Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine.
■ In 2022, it caused more than 73,800 preventable deaths.
■ Accidental overdose is now the second-leading cause of death among young people.
n my years of recovery work, I’ve attended too many wakes and funerals.
Many associate overdoses with rock stars or homeless junkies, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Your child doesn’t need to be a drug addict to die from fentanyl poisoning — it’s everywhere. Complacency is fentanyl’s greatest ally. It’s being found in drugs like marijuana. Unless drugs are prescribed by a doctor or come from a reputable dispensary, you’re playing Russian roulette.
Consider that scene in “The Deer Hunter”: Your child is Christopher Walken, the gun he’s holding to his head is the party your child is attending, and the lone bullet is that Xanax laced with fentanyl that they’re trying for the first time.
Here are some sobering facts from the
In Texas, law enforcement has seized over 505 million lethal doses of fentanyl. That’s enough to kill every person in the U.S. It’s simple math: Fentanyl = death.
In my profession, I facilitate free Narcan training. Narcan reverses opioid overdoses. It saves lives.
People often ask, “Why would a drug dealer want to kill their clients?” The answer is simple: fentanyl is cheap and highly addictive. That translates to higher profits and return customers: high risk but high reward.
In my almost 15 years of recovery, I’ve attended too many wakes and funerals for kids and adults. There’s an expression in recovery: Sometimes you have to step over the bodies. That should be reserved for battlefields, yet we live on a battlefield where fentanyl is a weapon of mass destruction.
I serve on a Community Prevention Coalition working to educate our kids
about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. It includes school administrators, social workers, police officers, local merchants, and parents who have lost loved ones to fentanyl. We focus on combating the spread of this deadly drug through our communities.
Grief shouldn’t be part of a parent’s job description, yet it often is. While it’s impossible to avoid all grief, we can reduce the chances of preventable loss. We must act to effect change. You don’t have to be a crusader, but sitting on our hands isn’t an option. We can spread awareness to prevent more fentanyl poisonings.
A mentor once told me, “If you’re not part of the solution, then you’re part of the problem.” Here’s the call to action: Join your local community coalition. Get trained to administer Narcan. Talk to your kids about substance dangers. Write to local officials about their plans for the opioid crisis, and consult professionals about prevention strategies. Pick one action, and you’ll be part of the solution. A community that works together always wins.
Jason Mayo is a certified recovery peer advocate at a nonprofit community recovery and outreach center on Long Island. He is a contributing writer for The Sober Curator, has written for the Forbes Business Council and is the author of the children’s books “Do Witches Make Fishes?” and “The Boy and the Billy Goat.”
e did the stupid thing, and we survived.
We did not evacuate our home on a barrier island on the west coast of Florida when Hurricane Helene blasted through in the earlymorning hours of Sept. 26.
The first alerts about Helene seemed exaggerated and alarmist: A disorganized low-pressure system, percolating quietly near the Yucatan Peninsula, would gather fearsome energy over the Gulf of Mexico and slam into Florida’s Gulf coast, as a Cat 4 or 5 killer. It was an unusual setup for hurricane in these parts. My parttime residence was long said to be safe by the indigenous people who lived here, protected geographically because of a twist in the coastline. Maybe the ancients are exacting revenge for our careless guardianship of their land.
We are on the eighth floor of a building on the beach, and we have metal wind shutters. So, considering the labori-
ous process of gathering our belongings and food and driving to a safe haven, we decided to stay. Besides, once a storm is on its way, not much time remains before landfall, and it isn’t clear which way to run. Hurricanes often wobble or weaken or, in the case of Helene, turn left over Georgia and North Carolina, destroying everything in their path.
We had water for a week, and food that didn’t need to be refrigerated or heated. We had each other and Lillybee the dog, who had been skulking in our shadows for days. We also felt somewhat jaded by overhyped weather alarms in the past. Epic snowfalls, tornadoes sprouting everywhere, on-again-off-again water spout watches. We would probably be OK.
generators malfunctioned. Then I walked up. Then I did the same walk, down and up eight flights, for five days, until power was restored. Both of our cars, parked “safely” in the garage, were engulfed by the tidal surge and totaled.
W e were scared straight by Helene, and will never try to ride one out again.
Sometime after midnight on the 26th, the rain and wind came on like a freight train, hammering the shutters against our windows. Within an hour we had no electricity and no internet. Officials on the mainland turned off all water service to the island. The bridge to the rest of the world was closed.
The dog needed to go out, so I grabbed a flashlight and walked down eight dark flights of stairs to get outside. Building
But we were lucky. We lived through the storm without a medical crisis and with replaceable losses.
We vowed never to stay when the authorities tell us to evacuate. What if one of us got sick during the hurricane? What if the windows blew in, even with the shutters?
Less than two weeks later, we had another shot at hurricane survival. Hurricane Milton developed on the east coast of Mexico, and got himself together in record speed, exploding from Category 1 to Category 5 in one day and taking direct aim at our island as he charged up the west coast of Florida.
This time we obeyed the evacuation orders and moved to a hotel on the mainland with Lillybee. One day later, the hotel was evacuated, sending us on a drive across the state, with thousands of other people. We took refuge with family on the East Coast. And we waited and waited for the hurricane to hit and do its
work so we could begin to build back. Like waiting for surgery.
Milton made landfall on Oct. 9 on the tiny barrier island south of us, wiping it clean of all the charming old Florida cottages that have survived for so long on a spit of land. Cars floated out into the Gulf. A man was rescued clinging to a large cooler from his sunken boat. We came back to our condo four days later. The property was a mess, but we had power and internet. We were on a boilwater advisory, stores were closed, and piles of household belongings and soaked furnishings are piled up along the roads.
We love it here, but it’s crazy to build on barrier islands. Nature always reclaims her own. We were scared straight by the first hurricane, and will never try to ride one out again. We look around at neighbors who have lost everything they own. And we know we are part of a bigger, more frightening human-made disaster called climate change.
Who will gather the will and willingness to stop the rising tides and temperatures? Who will stop the awful gathering storm of wind, rain and fire that sweep across our nation in every season?
Copyright 2024 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
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n recent days, two of the most prominent national newspapers, The Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post, announced that they would not endorse a presidential candidate in Tuesday’s election, breaking from decades of precedent. Many have speculated on the reasons behind these decisions, suggesting that the newspapers favored Kamala Harris but ultimately chose not to upset Donald Trump for fear of retribution if the former president returns to the Oval Office.
For those of us in the news business, these decisions raise questions about the role of newspapers in a charged political climate. We at the Long Island Herald, a proud local newspaper company family-owned for three generations, see this as an opportunity to reaffirm our mission to serve the people of Long Island.
Unlike many national publications, the Herald does not make endorsements of candidates seeking political office, and our reasons are simple yet vital. Our focus is not on swaying voters toward a particular candidate, but on delivering comprehensive and unbiased information about the issues that matter most to Long Islanders. We are not here to tell our readers how to vote for political candidates; rather, we are here to arm readers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions at the
‘Harris shouldn’t even be on the ticket’
To the Editor:
ballot box. For us, the true measure of success is when readers feel empowered to draw their own conclusions based on facts, insights and perspectives they can trust.
Our mission is grounded in the local stories that directly impact your day-today lives — stories about Long Island schools, roads, parks, businesses and community events. It’s easy for national headlines to overshadow these essential local matters, especially in a polarized political landscape. Yet we firmly believe that our responsibility is to stay rooted in the issues affecting our neighborhoods and families. From zoning changes and public safety to neighborhood events and high school sports, we are here to cover what is relevant and timely for our readers.
The one place where you might see opinions about local and national political candidates, however, is in columns on our editorial pages, like those written by Randi Kreiss and Peter King. These essays are distinguished from Herald news content by featuring photos of the authors, making it clear that they reflect the writers’ perspectives and not the views of the Herald. We strive to showcase a diverse array of local voices across the ideological spectrum in these opinion pieces.
In a world saturated with news from national outlets, social media platforms and pundits, local newspapers play a
I couldn’t disagree more with Jerry’s Kremer’s viewpoint in his column last week, “Why I’m voting for Kamala Harris.” Harris shouldn’t even be on the ticket. If the Democrats had held an open primary after President Biden was pushed aside, she wouldn’t even have been considered.
Her word-salad responses to questions are baffling and her knowledge of the issues is inept. The only thing that rings in her favor is the Roe v. Wade debate. Harris is clueless on the economy, the border, which is a travesty, and her ability to engage with world leaders. Donald Trump is far from perfect, but he’ll put America first, and Kamala, in my opinion, will not.
KEnnY CULLEn Franklin Square
To the Editor:
In “Why I’m voting for Kamala Harris,” Jerry Kremer forgot to mention what our open south -
unique and irreplaceable role. Our newspaper is here to highlight the concerns and successes of Long Island, to act as a mirror to our community, and to bring a sense of belonging and understanding that no national publication can provide. But to achieve this, we need to hear from you, our readers. What are the topics you care about? What issues are not getting the coverage they deserve? Are there people in our community doing extraordinary things whom we should feature? We encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas and feedback with us. Let us know what you’re curious about, what you feel needs to be addressed, and where you think we can improve. Your voices are essential to shaping a Herald that genuinely reflects and serves your community.
Reach out to us at execeditor@liherald.com, and let us know what matters to you!
As the election approaches, we understand the intense focus on national races, but our mission remains to illuminate the issues closest to home. We will continue to be your trusted source for local news, not by endorsing political candidates but by informing, listening, and responding to the needs of Long Island.
Together, let’s keep our community well-informed, engaged and vibrant — one local story at a time.
ispent a lot of my childhood, and now, consequently, a lot of my adulthood, at my uncle’s lake house in Pennsylvania.
Some of my fondest memories revolve around being there — whether I was fishing with my grandfather, exploring the outdoors with my cousins or curled up with a good book on the beach, taking in my surroundings.
As I’ve gotten older, I find that I love the area for different reasons. I still like to fish and spend time outside with my family and my dogs. But I also love exploring the Poconos communities around the house, which, in many ways, feel like a second home to me.
Readers of the Bellmore, Merrick and East Meadow Heralds have likely seen my name pop up on their community Facebook pages throughout the almost three and a half years that I’ve been working here. I like to stay involved with community forums,
because they’re not only a great source of information, but also a great place for me to network, and meet the people in the communities that I cover and love.
So just as I do here at home and when I’m working, I’ve joined a few community social media pages in the Pennsylvania region I travel to. Again, I find that it’s a great way to stay in the loop, find new spots to visit, and again, receive a variety of information that I might not know otherwise.
the world often feels overwhelmingly negative, but we don’t have to make it worse.
A few weeks ago, I was scrolling through a page that I check frequently, and came across a post from a page contributor that read: “NY Trash Destroyed The Poconos.”
It took me a moment to really wrap my head around what I was reading, because for one, the region is economically very reliant on tourism from places like New York, and because I couldn’t believe that people actually felt that way. I’d imagine that everyone has had their own experiences with “outsiders,” but I’d venture to guess that the vast majority of the people who’ve found second
ern border has done to our country. Maybe that’s because Harris was in charge of the border.
To the Editor:
Vice presidents are very limited in what they can do in that job. Their job is to support the president’s policies. Think of former Vice President Mike Pence.
Vice President Harris is her own strong person, and she will take what she perceives to be the best aspects of President Biden’s policies, but no vice president is ever a carbon copy of their predecessor. In terms of the southern border, Harris says that she supports having both parties in Congress work together and compromise on solutions, as was recently done with the strict border bill that both parties agreed on. However, Trump intervened and told Republicans to back out.
Trump and his MAGA Republicans prefer a dictatorial approach to solving our country’s problems. They tell us that we are a failing nation that only one man can fix. Beware. That is not democracy.
Concerning our economy, economists
homes in Pennsylvania are just like me and my family — kind, courteous and respectful. Fellow commenters on the thread confirmed my beliefs. Whatever reasons he had to make that post didn’t matter in the long run. In the grand scheme of things, it was just another blip on the social media timeline. It didn’t make any waves, and it certainly didn’t stop “outsiders” from visiting the area, or going to homes that they own.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve thought a lot about that post, not because I took insult in his words, but because I can’t imagine ever going out of my way to post such a ridiculous, negative thing — on any platform, for any reason.
It’s like the age-old saying: “If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.”
It doesn’t matter that the post came from a place other than Long Island, because I’m sure we can all think of similar ones. Comments become vicious and people start attacking one another, while ignoring the actual problem: We,
as a society, can be extraordinarily unkind.
There’s a lot going on these days. Things are polarized, and I feel it — the agitation, the stress about the way things are. The world we live in today isn’t perfect, but was it ever?
The point I’m trying to make is, if you have to go out of your way to say something completely unnecessary, take a moment and ask yourself: Is it worth it?
The world today may not be perfect, and often it feels overwhelmingly negative. We don’t have to make it worse. When things feel harsh and disconnected, kindness is a quiet strength, as is thinking about the things we say, or write, before we say them.
We can choose to be mindful of what we say, understanding that our words have consequences. The world may not be perfect, but each of us can make it a little better by simply pausing, reflecting, and opting for kindness whenever we can, because in a time when so much feels out of our control, this is one thing that isn’t.
Jordan Vallone is a senior editor who writes for the Bellmore, Merrick and East Meadow Heralds. Comments? jvallone@ liherald.com.
report that it is doing well. Gas prices are down, unemployment is down and the stock market is flourishing.
One would expect that food and housing costs would continue to improve under Harris. Economists say that Trump’s tariffs would backfire and increase the cost of goods. Also, it seems that most people agree with the Harris plan to have large corporations pay their fair share of taxes, but she will need a Democratic Congress to achieve this.
ELAINE RAuCH Lynbrook
To the Editor:
Beware of all the promises of goodies — or, as I call them, Halloween tricks and treats — promised by candidates running for public office. There is no such thing as a free lunch, or, in this case, free government programs offering benefits to you. Taxpayers always end up picking up the tab.
That’s a good reason why politicians should be changed often, like diapers, because most are full of you know what! Remember this next Tuesday before you vote.
LARRY PENNER Great Neck
