Uniondale Herald Beacon 11-21-2024

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HERALD UNIONDALE

Courtesy Girls Inc. of Long Island Danie Henry, left, and Alexandra Aliu, Uniondale High School seniors, were honored at the Girls Inc. of Long Island’s annual luncheon on Nov. 7.

Uniondale seniors honored at annual Girls Inc. luncheon

Girls Inc. of Long Island hosted its annual luncheon on Nov. 7, an event that celebrates the organization’s mission to inspire and empower young girls. The combination celebration and fundraiser honored several of the organization’s key achievements and awarded scholarships to deserving young women.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate all that we are able to accomplish, all that we’re doing,” Renee Flagler, executive director of Girls Inc. of Long Island, said. “It’s also an opportunity to communicate to attendees the importance of the work, what we’re currently focusing on, and how they can not only celebrate but support the mission.”

Five girls were honored at the luncheon, at the Heritage Club in Bethpage, where they were recognized for their personal growth and the skills they have gained through the organization’s programs.

Danie Henry, a senior at Uniondale High School and Girl Inc. of Long Island’s Girl of the Year, was among the honorees. As Girl of the Year, she will be a national brand ambassador for the organization, and spend the year as a member of the Teen Advocacy Council.

“Not only do they learn how to advocate,” Flagler said of the girls on the council, “but they are able to actively get involved with advocacy as it pertains to gender equity and girls’ rights.”

In her acceptance speech for her award,

BEACON BEACON

Guerrier helps community through charity

One Uniondale woman’s passion for giving back has sparked a wave of encouragement and support across her community. Ebony Guerrier is a dedicated mother of three, a school paraprofessional and PTA member and the driving force behind Mrs. G’s Brown Bag Charity. What began as a way to stay motivated and connected during the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic has blossomed into a broader community initiative, bringing people together and lifting up those in need.

During the pandemic, Guerrier saw the needs of people around her, so she decided to host a food and clothing giveaway in the summer of 2020 at Randall Park in Freeport. This was her first venture into “charity work,” she said, and the start of her

public altruism.

From there, Guerrier started a Facebook group called “Recipe Swap for the Quarantine,” for her friends and family to share recipes and ideas while everyone was stuck at home.

The page took off and became a “huge thing,” she said, among her followers, with ideas and activities including raffles and gifts that they mailed to one another’s homes.

“It was just a really fun time to bring light during a really hard time,” she said.

EBony GuERRIER Founder, Mrs. G’s Brown Bag Charity

As her Facebook page grew, Guerrier wanted to do more. She and Kamilah Clahar, her “right hand,” began regularly hosting events and collections across the community. Another one of her earliest initiatives, and her organization’s second-ever event, was their inaugural Halloween Trunk or Treat in 2020

CoNtINUeD oN pAGe 4

HERALD UNIONDALE

Courtesy Girls Inc. of Long Island Danie Henry, left, and Alexandra Aliu, Uniondale High School seniors, were honored at the Girls Inc. of Long Island’s annual luncheon on Nov. 7.

Uniondale seniors honored at annual Girls Inc. luncheon

Girls Inc. of Long Island hosted its annual luncheon on Nov. 7, an event that celebrates the organization’s mission to inspire and empower young girls. The combination celebration and fundraiser honored several of the organization’s key achievements and awarded scholarships to deserving young women.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate all that we are able to accomplish, all that we’re doing,” Renee Flagler, executive director of Girls Inc. of Long Island, said. “It’s also an opportunity to communicate to attendees the importance of the work, what we’re currently focusing on, and how they can not only celebrate but support the mission.”

Five girls were honored at the luncheon, at the Heritage Club in Bethpage, where they were recognized for their personal growth and the skills they have gained through the organization’s programs.

Danie Henry, a senior at Uniondale High School and Girl Inc. of Long Island’s Girl of the Year, was among the honorees. As Girl of the Year, she will be a national brand ambassador for the organization, and spend the year as a member of the Teen Advocacy Council.

“Not only do they learn how to advocate,” Flagler said of the girls on the council, “but they are able to actively get involved with advocacy as it pertains to gender equity and girls’ rights.”

In her acceptance speech for her award,

Guerrier helps community through charity

One Uniondale woman’s passion for giving back has sparked a wave of encouragement and support across her community. Ebony Guerrier is a dedicated mother of three, a school paraprofessional and PTA member and the driving force behind Mrs. G’s Brown Bag Charity. What began as a way to stay motivated and connected during the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic has blossomed into a broader community initiative, bringing people together and lifting up those in need.

During the pandemic, Guerrier saw the needs of people around her, so she decided to host a food and clothing giveaway in the summer of 2020 at Randall Park in Freeport. This was her first venture into “charity work,” she said, and the start of her

public altruism.

From there, Guerrier started a Facebook group called “Recipe Swap for the Quarantine,” for her friends and family to share recipes and ideas while everyone was stuck at home.

The page took off and became a “huge thing,” she said, among her followers, with ideas and activities including raffles and gifts that they mailed to one another’s homes.

“It was just a really fun time to bring light during a really hard time,” she said.

As her Facebook page grew, Guerrier wanted to do more. She and Kamilah Clahar, her “right hand,” began regularly hosting events and collections across the community. Another one of her earliest initiatives, and her organization’s second-ever event, was their inaugural Halloween Trunk or Treat in 2020

CoNtINUeD oN pAGe 4

Celebrating girls’ empowerment on Long Island

Henry expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the Girls Inc. community, highlighting how the program has taught her crucial lessons about things like budgeting and insurance, and helped her improve her personal and professional relationships.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity to be presented this award,” she told the Herald after the event. “There was a lot of girls empowerment in the room that day, and a lot of the people that were in that room were people that are supporters of me moving up and growing as a person.”

Henry, who has been involved with Girls Inc. for three years, also credited her mentor, Nellie Washington, the program coordinator who runs the meetings, for her growth.

“She is the reason why I was even able to be presented that award, and she is really someone that got to see me grow over these three years,” she said, “so I owe it all to Miss Nellie.”

The luncheon also featured the presentation of $2,000 scholarships to three high school seniors. The scholarships are intended to ease the financial burden of college expenses by helping girls cover a range of costs, including application fees, transportation and school supplies.

“There are often costs that come in around tuition that are not necessarily part of your tuition bill,” Flagler said, “and so it’s critical to make sure that (the girls) have the funding to do that.”

Alexandra Aliu, another Uniondale High senior, was one of the scholarship recipients. She has been a member of Girls Inc. since her sophomore year, and she talked about her experience with the program, describing how it has helped her become more confident and open.

“I feel like it’s opened me up more, and it’s, like, giving me skills that I need,” she said, “like emotional resilience and selfacceptance and stuff like that.”

Aliu also expressed her gratitude to Washington for listening to her and advocate for her, and for the “eye-opening” experiences she has had learning about finances and law.

Two other girls — Nancy Contreras and Jaeda Quinones — received scholarships at the luncheon, and Farihah Chowdhury was honored as Alumna of the Year for “exemplifying” the lessons she learned during her time in Girls Inc., Flagler said.

With nearly 75 chapters across the country and five in New York, Girls Inc. offers programming that fosters the development of “strong, smart and bold” young women, Flagler said.

“We’re providing girls with the tools, education, knowledge, information, access and resources to reach their full potential and become a new generation of leaders,” she said.

Girls Inc. of Long Island will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025, marking two decades of fostering leadership and advocacy among girls in the region.

Curing a rare heart disorder with a short life expectancy.

Performing a life-changing brain surgery without a single incision.

Helping a new mom give birth—and receive a new liver.

At Northwell’s North Shore University Hospital, the nation’s most brilliant minds come here to conquer health care’s greatest challenges. So that whatever comes through our doors: challenge accepted.

North Shore University Hospital

Courtesy Girls Inc. of Long Island
danie Henry accepted her girl of the Year award and spoke at the luncheon.

Lawrence Road hosts second annual health fair

The Lawrence Road Middle School PTSA and the Junior Honor Society partnered to have their second annual Health Fair.

“Last year we joined to start a health fair so that the community can have access to medical resources and cancer prevention,” Veronica Argueta, Lawrence Road Junior Honor Society advisor and equity officer, said.

A major focus of the fair was to raise awareness about cancer. Olga Hernandez and Karen Johnson, PTSA members for nearly 16 years and the organizers of the event, are both cancer survivors.

Last year’s health fair was centered around cancer awareness, Johnson said, but this year’s was about health in a broader sense. Cancer education was still at the forefront, with a table from Adelphi University about breast cancer and another table about prostate cancer.

Hernandez worked at the New York Medical College for 43 years in the obstetrics and gynecology department where she managed the chief of service schedule and oversaw a staff of 20 people. She knows well the importance of early detection and intervention, from her expansive career and from her personal experiences.

“We have the knowledge to go seek our timely check-ups,” Hernandez said, “but a lot of people don’t think of it.”

A large square of tables filled up the middle of Lawrence Road’s newly renovated general purpose room, with a variety of health professionals and other organizations handing out information and pamphlets.

Molloy University’s Community Care Mobile Clinic set up tables to provide a variety of services. They ran medical tests onsite for issues like high blood pressure and diabetes, and they gave referrals to people whose tests showed that they need additional medical attention. There were also mental health and counseling services available for those who need them.

“It’s a nice way for (people) to network, see all the resources available to them,” Argueta said, “and then from there, go to their regular doctors and get checked out.”

Two representatives from the Nassau County Department of Health had a booth set up where they handed out informational pamphlets and flyers about a variety of different health topics, from medical conditions like diabetes to healthy habits for families.

Long Island University Post’s Center for Community Inclusion has a partnership with local communities

that helps to connect people with localized support. A representative was at the fair, sharing information about that program as well as a scholarship opportunity for people interested in getting a degree in school counseling and social work for high needs schools. To learn more, email PostCCI@liu.edu.

Premier Endodontics, where Uniondale Board of Education trustee Addie Harvey-Blanco works, was there as well to give out information about dental hygiene and bags of free mouth care items, like toothpaste and toothbrushes.

To incorporate some physical exer-

cise, Luz McCaw hosted a zumba session for adults and kids, and Cohen Nelson, Uniondale High’s varsity soccer coach, ran a soccer clinic where kids of all ages learned soccer tips and tricks.

Kids also had the chance to learn about woodworking from Eagle Scout Xavier Liddelow, with kids building their own motorcycles and chariots.

Johnson said she was happy with the turnout of people showing up to this year’s fair.

“We want them to be educated and to take pamphlets home and pertinent information so they can have better health,” she said.

Kelsie Radziski/Herald photos
Olga Hernandez, left, Veronica Argueta, Karen Johnson and PTSA student representative Jayleen Pacheco, 13, organized the second annual health fair at Lawrence Road.
Nelani Garcia, 11, left, and Ariana Wany, 12, built their own motorcycle and chariot during a woodworking workshop run by Eagle Scout Xavier Liddelow.
Students, parents and guardians gathered for a zumba class run by Luz McCaw to get the heart pumping.

Charity offers holiday events, family fun

at Uniondale Avenue Park.

“It was a safe way to be outside without feeling scared to catch Covid,” she said, “and the kids still had a sense of what Halloween was, so it became a big thing.”

Guerrier’s Trunk or Treat event has since become a tradition, drawing families, schools and even local fire departments. It has grown over the years, and

Keeping up with Mrs. G’s

mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity will host its next community event, a cookie decorating holiday party, on dec. 14, at Coe’s neck park in Baldwin. for a $20 fee there will be crafts, music, refreshments and of course, cookie decorating. to keep up with guerrier, rSVp to the cookie decorating event and follow the events her organization offers the community, @brownbagcharity on instagram and mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity org. on facebook.

this year’s event was a partnership with Smith Street School PTA, of which she is a member.

Her Facebook initiative evolved from recipe swaps and raffles to her grassroots charity organization, Mrs. G’s.

In addition to Halloween, Guerrier’s charity has expanded its reach to other holidays. She has created Thanksgiving baskets for families in need, organized toy giveaways at Christmastime and run annual Easter egg hunts for kids. For Mother’s Day in 2022, she hosted a party at Coe’s Neck Park, in Baldwin, for mothers to get together and create “vision boards” based on their goals and aspirations.

The money for all of these events, Guerrier said, comes out of her pocket, or from the donations and support of friends, family and the community.

“We reach out into our community for support, and they support us because they know and believe in what we do,” she said.

But Guerrier has bigger dreams for her organization: to become an official nonprofit.

“It’s just been so rewarding over the years to have gained the notoriety that we have,” she said, “and the only thing that has stopped us from getting more sponsorships and support is that we don’t have that status yet. So that is the goal, to get it done sooner than later.”

In addition to her charity, Guerrier is

Myths About Estate Planning

The frst myth to explore about estate planning is that you can do it yourself over the internet. This supposes that a trust is a generic legal document where you plug in names, addresses and amounts you want to give and then off you go! However, experienced estate planning lawyers will tell you the job is ninety percent social work and only ten percent legal. Most of the time we spend with clients involves going over the social aspects of the estate plan. First, who should be in charge of your legal and fnancial decision-making in the event of death or disability? One person or more than one? Should they be required to act together or may they be permitted to act separately? How are the other family members going to feel about these choices? Who gets along with whom? What are my options and what do other people do and why? You need to be in a position to evaluate pros and cons and there’s no counselling on the internet.

Getting an estate plan from out-of-state is fraught with other pitfalls. Take the New York form of power of attorney, for example. In our experience, even trained lawyers often make

major errors in drafting and executing the complex New York form of power of attorney. What chance does a lay person have to get it right?

Then there’s the false sense of security one has in believing they have an adequate plan until it is too late – ultimately ending up with the family losing their home and life savings. Why? Because online estate planning does not address protecting assets from the extraordinarily high cost of long-term care either at home or in a facility. This involves planning with a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) -- only available from an experienced elder law frm and not from the internet.

Consider this. Your chance of having your house burn down in any given year is about one in three thousand. Yet who doesn’t carry homeowner’s insurance every year? On the other hand, the mortality rate is stubbornly stuck at one hundred percent. Your estate plan for your family, your home and your life savings is simply worthwhile insurance that will one day pay off. Not only that, but you only pay for it once, not every year!

1991 trustlaw.com Trusts & Estates • Wills & Probate • Medicaid FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offces in Huntington •

a paraprofessional at Smith Street School, where she has worked for two years, and has been a member of Smith Street PTA for the past year and a half. She is also a mother of three children, ages 17, 10 and 8.

“I’ve always been the type of person that loves to give, and I wanted to be that type of person to encourage others to give as well,” she said. “My goal was to encourage people within the communities to give back to their own communities, because right here, there are struggling families.”

Kelsie Radziski/Herald
ayana White, far left, ebony guerrier, t iffany Blake and Kamilah Clahar at this year’s Halloween trunk or treat event at Smith Street School, a collaboration between mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity and the Smith Street pta.

Charity offers holiday events, family fun

at Uniondale Avenue Park.

“It was a safe way to be outside without feeling scared to catch Covid,” she said, “and the kids still had a sense of what Halloween was, so it became a big thing.”

Guerrier’s Trunk or Treat event has since become a tradition, drawing families, schools and even local fire departments. It has grown over the years, and

Keeping up with Mrs. G’s

mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity will host its next community event, a cookie decorating holiday party, on dec. 14, at Coe’s neck park in Baldwin. for a $20 fee there will be crafts, music, refreshments and of course, cookie decorating. to keep up with guerrier, rSVp to the cookie decorating event and follow the events her organization offers the community, @brownbagcharity on instagram and mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity org. on facebook.

this year’s event was a partnership with Smith Street School PTA, of which she is a member.

Her Facebook initiative evolved from recipe swaps and raffles to her grassroots charity organization, Mrs. G’s.

In addition to Halloween, Guerrier’s charity has expanded its reach to other holidays. She has created Thanksgiving baskets for families in need, organized toy giveaways at Christmastime and run annual Easter egg hunts for kids. For Mother’s Day in 2022, she hosted a party at Coe’s Neck Park, in Baldwin, for mothers to get together and create “vision boards” based on their goals and aspirations.

The money for all of these events, Guerrier said, comes out of her pocket, or from the donations and support of friends, family and the community.

“We reach out into our community for support, and they support us because they know and believe in what we do,” she said.

But Guerrier has bigger dreams for her organization: to become an official nonprofit.

“It’s just been so rewarding over the years to have gained the notoriety that we have,” she said, “and the only thing that has stopped us from getting more sponsorships and support is that we don’t have that status yet. So that is the goal, to get it done sooner than later.”

In addition to her charity, Guerrier is

Myths About Estate Planning

The frst myth to explore about estate planning is that you can do it yourself over the internet. This supposes that a trust is a generic legal document where you plug in names, addresses and amounts you want to give and then off you go! However, experienced estate planning lawyers will tell you the job is ninety percent social work and only ten percent legal.

Most of the time we spend with clients involves going over the social aspects of the estate plan. First, who should be in charge of your legal and fnancial decision-making in the event of death or disability? One person or more than one? Should they be required to act together or may they be permitted to act separately? How are the other family members going to feel about these choices? Who gets along with whom? What are my options and what do other people do and why? You need to be in a position to evaluate pros and cons and there’s no counselling on the internet.

Getting an estate plan from out-of-state is fraught with other pitfalls. Take the New York form of power of attorney, for example. In our experience, even trained lawyers often make

major errors in drafting and executing the complex New York form of power of attorney. What chance does a lay person have to get it right?

Then there’s the false sense of security one has in believing they have an adequate plan until it is too late – ultimately ending up with the family losing their home and life savings. Why? Because online estate planning does not address protecting assets from the extraordinarily high cost of long-term care either at home or in a facility. This involves planning with a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) -- only available from an experienced elder law frm and not from the internet.

Consider this. Your chance of having your house burn down in any given year is about one in three thousand. Yet who doesn’t carry homeowner’s insurance every year? On the other hand, the mortality rate is stubbornly stuck at one hundred percent. Your estate plan for your family, your home and your life savings is simply worthwhile insurance that will one day pay off. Not only that, but you only pay for it once, not every year!

a paraprofessional at Smith Street School, where she has worked for two years, and has been a member of Smith Street PTA for the past year and a half. She is also a mother of three children, ages 17, 10 and 8.

“I’ve always been the type of person that loves to give, and I wanted to be that type of person to encourage others to give as well,” she said. “My goal was to encourage people within the communities to give back to their own communities, because right here, there are struggling families.”

Kelsie Radziski/Herald
ayana White, far left, ebony guerrier, t iffany Blake and Kamilah Clahar at this year’s Halloween trunk or treat event at Smith Street School, a collaboration between mrs. g’s Brown Bag Charity and the Smith Street pta.

Latin sounds take center stage at Uniondale High

The Uniondale school district and Symphonic Pops of Long Island orchestra partnered over the last year to feature the music of underrepresented Latin artists, which culminated in a big performance at Uniondale High School.

“This year, the Symphonic Pops sought to partner with the Uniondale School District because of our longstanding reputation for diversity in the arts and for an opportunity to collaborate with our renowned Rhythm of the Knight Show Choir,” Kelvin Jenkins, Uniondale school district’s Director of Fine and Performing Arts, said. “This proved to be a most rewarding experience for our students of Latin heritage and our vast demographic population of students, staff, and community.”

The orchestra and show choir gave a combined performance on Nov. 8, which gave students “a valuable platform to perform alongside experienced musicians,” Jenkins said.

At the “Sabor Sinfónico” concert, the orchestra and choir collaborated to showcase a variety of compositions, including Latin jazz, Brazilian music, Dominican folk, a Spanish opera and choral music from a Colombian composer. They closed the set with the opening number from “In the Heights,” the play by LinManuel Miranda set in Washington Heights.

“We were able to represent Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Brazil and the United States in one concert, which was really gratifying,” Taylor Massey, orchestra conductor, said.

The partnership and culminating concert came from a grant awarded as a part of the Statewide Community Regrant program through the Hun -

tington Arts Council. The purpose of the grant is “to have a community impact with a focus on underrepresented and under-researched communities,” Patty Eljaiek, Long Island Grant for the Arts Coordinator for the Huntington Arts Council, said.

“They really did the work of reaching out into the community and providing something for them that was needed and that they enjoyed,” Eljaiek said about the orchestra. “So I think

they really did a great job of listening to their community.”

The Symphonic Pops of Long Island is a nonprofit orchestra encompassed of “retired professionals, retired educators or just hobbyists who stuck with music or people who picked it up,” Massey explained. He said the orchestra enjoyed working with the “excellent” and “award winning” show choir.

“They just had such a strong work

ethic and appetite for new things,” he said.

Massey said his two priorities for the experience were “a good experience for the musicians, to include the student musicians as well as the orchestra members” and to “really do honor to the people’s music that we’re playing.”

“The mission was very worthwhile, and it seemed like the audience really (loved) the orchestra,” he said.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos
Uniondale High School’s Rhythm of the Night Show Choir, led by Lynette Carr-Hicks, performed with the Symphonic Pops of Long Island on Nov. 8.
The Symphonic Pops orchestra played a variety of Latin music from all different countries.
The Rhythm of the Night Show Choir is an award-winning group and was ‘excellent’ to work with, Symphonic Pops director Taylor Massey said.

State program could help cover the cost of heating utilities this winter

New York state officials announced that funding is available to help lowand middle-income households and older adults manage heating expenses during the winter months through the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP. The program, which can provide up to $996 to eligible households, is now accepting applications, according to a news release on the state’s website.

“New Yorkers should not have to choose between heating their home or putting food on the table, and we’re offering critical financial assistance to protect vulnerable New York households as the weather gets colder,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said.

No

al income of $76,681, may qualify — marking a significant increase from last year’s maximum of a monthly gross income of $5,838, and an annual gross income of $70,059.

Eligible households can receive one HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for up to two Emergency HEAP benefits, if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut off. Applications for HEAP benefits are now being accepted, while applications for Emergency HEAP benefits open Jan. 2, 2025.

family should have to make the financially difficult decision between paying their

heating bill or going without other necessities.

HEAP, a federally funded program, is available to households with vulnerable members, including children under 6, adults aged 60 and older, and those with disabilities. Eligibility is determined by factors such as income, household size, and heating needs. For example, a family of four with a gross monthly income of $6,390, or an annu-

L AuRiE WhEELOck Executive director Public Utility Law Project of New York

New Yorkers can apply at NY.gov/Heat, at local social service offices, or through the mail. Older adults needing assistance can contact a local aging office or call (800) 342-9871.

“HEAP provides essential financial assistance that will help hundreds of thousands of low and moderate-income households in New York pay their energy bills this winter,” Barbara Guinn, commissioner of the state’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, said. “HEAP is a lifeline for lowincome working families and older adults on a fixed income and also pro-

Courtesy Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul Gov. Kathy Hochul and state officials announced a funding program available to help low- and middle-income households and older adults manage heating expenses during the winter months. Applications are now open for the program, called Home Energy Assistance Program.

vides financial support to ensure those in emergency situations can keep the heat on and keep their homes warm during the cold winter months.”

Last year, over 84,000 Long Islanders, and just under 990,000 New York City residents, benefited from the HEAP program.

HEAP also offers heating equipment repair or replacement benefits, allowing up to $4,000 for repairs and $8,000 for replacements. Homeowners may also apply for a heating equip -

ment clean and tune benefit, covering maintenance services like chimney cleaning and carbon monoxide detector installation.

The energy assistance program for heating complements other state programs designed to help low- and middle-income New Yorkers, such as the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s EmPower+ program, which provides low energy efficiency services to HEAP-eligible homeowners and renters, such as comprehensive home energy assessments that help determine plans for lower home energy usage.

Laurie Wheelock, the executive director of the Public Utility Law Project of New York, a nonprofit organization that advocates for consumer protection, affordability and universal services for utility and energy relatedsources, urged low- to middle-income New Yorkers to learn more about HEAP.

“No family should have to make the financially difficult decision between paying their heating bill or going without other necessities, like food and medicine,” she said in a state release. “HEAP can help by offering immediate financial relief to help you pay your heating bill.”

To learn more about the program, and for links to apply, visit Governor. NY.gov/news.

Senior Expo makes its mark in Suffolk

Herald Community Media and RichnerLIVE successfully wrapped up the final Senior Health & Beyond Expo of 2024, presented by Stony Brook Medicine, on Nov. 3, at the Suffolk Y JCC in Commack. This free community event attracted hundreds of attendees, including seniors, families and caregivers eager to explore the latest in wellness, lifestyle enhancements and valuable health resources.

The bustling expo featured a vibrant lineup of educational vendors and interactive activities that kept spirits high throughout the day. From yoga and fitness demonstration sessions to tarot readings, the event catered to diverse interests, and even offered guests an opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping.

“It was an incredible turnout,” Amy Amato, Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events at RichnerLIVE, said. “We are happy to bring our community-loved event to the Suffolk area, and hope to continue to bring a wealth of knowledge and fun to our senior communities Island-wide.”

One of the highlights of the day was a dynamic live performance by the Seasoned Steppers and Dazzling Divas of Ms. Senior New York America. Their energetic routines brought smiles to the crowd, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. And a performance of a number from “The Nutcracker,” by the New York Dance Company, brought a seasonal touch to the day.

Raffle drawings every half hour kept the anticipation alive, with lucky winners taking home a variety of prizes such as Floatopia gift cards, gift baskets, Natural Remedies goody bags and more, plus two grand prizes: a $250 gift card and an overnight stay for two at the Inn at Fox Hollow, in Woodbury, which included dinner, champagne, roses, chocolates and a full breakfast. Friends and families engaged with experts during panel discussions and Q&A sessions on essential topics, including financial planning, alternative medicine and estate management, gaining valuable insights to improve their well-being.

“Yet another awesome event put on by RichnerLIVE,” Host Mae Caime, RN, CEO of VIP Health Connections and Founder of aMAEzing Midlife & Beyond, said. “From tons of vendors and interactive activities to the incredible showcase from Ms. Senior New York America’s Seasoned Steppers and Dazzling Divas. I love that the audience got up and danced along with them. Truly put a smile on my face.”

Attendees received complimentary swag bags brimming with goodies, and the first 175 guests were treated to a delicious to-go lunch provided by Bagel Boss. Seated fitness demos also kept audience members’ blood pumping while the event’s presenting sponsor, Stony Brook Medicine, provided health screenings, including blood pressure and cognitive screenings.

A special thank-you goes to Stony Brook Medicine and the other program sponsors — Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, Centerlight Healthcare PACE, Cona Elder Law, Clear Captions, NYSARC, Brightview Senior Living, Whisper Woods of Smithtown, the New York State Department of Public Service Long Island, Carillon Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, The Stroke & Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island, Branch Funeral Homes, Nassau University Medial Center, and Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk — for their crucial support. Ideal Home Care was the event’s Refreshment Sponsor, while the Suffolk Y JCC provided a welcoming venue.

The 2024 Senior Health & Beyond Expo series concluded on a high note, leaving attendees with a wealth of knowledge, resources and unforgettable memories.

Tim Baker/Herald photos Parker Jewish Public Relations Director Pablo Rendon.
Members of AARP with their therapy dog, Bailey.
Cona Elder Law attorney Melissa NegrinWiener.
Pierre Menard, of Centerlight Healthcare PACE, told guests about their services.
Opening keynote speaker Dr. Stephanie Jones, of Stony Brook Medicine Geriatrics.
Participants listened to the guest speakers.

North Merrick man indicted for terrorism after failed bomb attack

A North Merrick man was indicted for terrorism and a slew of other charges on Nov. 13 after allegedly plotting to attack the Nassau County Department of Social Services building in Uniondale, District Attorney Anne Donnelly announced.

James Luca, 46, allegedly attempted to detonate a homemade bomb he placed at the front doors of the building in a supposed “twisted revenge plot,” Donnelly said.

“It is the first time that this gravely serious offense has ever been charged in Nassau County,” Donnelly said at a news conference following the indictment.

In addition to terrorism, Luca was charged with criminal possession of a weapon, conspiracy and obstruction of governmental duties by means of a bomb destructive device, explosive or hazardous substance, the DA said. He faces up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted, according to the DA.

On Sept. 17 at 1:42 a.m., Luca and James Reyes, 25, allegedly left Luca’s home in North Merrick in separate cars, meeting up on Warren Street and allegedly driving to 60 Charles Lindbergh Blvd in Uniondale together. Donnelly said Luca allegedly placed a 20-pound propane tank and a 1-pound propane tank at the doors of the building with a torch on top.

According to the news release, recovered surveillance video allegedly showed

Luca attempting to throw lit flares at the homemade device, but it did not ignite.

Luca and Reyes were arrested on Oct. 3. Reyes was charged with criminal possession of a weapon, conspiracy and obstruction of governmental duties by means of a bomb destructive device, explosive or hazardous substance.

According to the DA, Luca has been going through a lengthy divorce with his ex wife over the past several months. The pair have four children between the ages of seven and 15.

In July of this year, Luca was arrested and charged with criminal mischief for an incident in February 2023.

“In a Halloween mask and camouflage, Luca allegedly crept up to his ex wife’s vehicle and placed something on a wind-

shield,” Donnelly said at the news conference. “Moments later, that object exploded, significantly damaging her vehicle. He blew up his wife’s car with another homemade bomb.”

After his July arrest, the DA said, Luca’s supervised visitation rights with his children were revoked, and his behavior allegedly became more erratic. He posted “aggressive comments against Nassau County” on social media, Donnelly said, and he was reported to have written a number of emails expressing his displeasure with the way CPS has been handling his case, allegedly calling the organization “disgusting.”

“Ultimately we allege Luca, aggrieved and blaming CPS, for losing his kids, hatched this revenge plot to inflict exten-

James

charged with terrorism, criminal possession of a weapon, conspiracy and obstruction of governmental duties by means of a bomb destructive device, explosive or hazardous substance, the DA said.

sive damage on the agency that took his visitation rights away,” Donnelly said.

Donnelly said she has never seen a case like this — with planted bombs at government facilities — and the offense “rose to that level” of a domestic terrorism threat.

“Together with the Nassau County Police Department, we will protect the workers and residents of Nassau County from any threats,” she said in the news release, “whether they are foreign or born right here in our backyard.”

Kelsie Radziski/Herald Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly held a news conference shortly after Luca was indicted on a slew of charges, including the first charge of terrorism in Nassau County.
Courtesy NCDA
Luca, 46, of North Merrick, was

Astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli honored at Cradle of Aviation

Jasmin Moghbeli, who was raised in Baldwin, visited the Cradle of Aviation Museum, in Uniondale, when she was growing up, and there she first immersed herself in the history of flight. On Nov. 7 she returned to the museum — this time as a NASA astronaut.

As the 41-year-old Moghbeli walked through the entrance, she saw a U.S. Navy plane suspended above, a reminder of aviation’s past. Inside, a new exhibit greeted visitors with an inspiring question on the wall: Will the first woman on the Moon be from Long Island?

Yes — it would be Moghbeli.

The museum’s new exhibit, titled “The Future is Now,” showcases a time machine of aviation history and a blueprint for the future.

One display highlights the attire and equipment of astronauts from Long Island, including a blue spacesuit worn by Jeff Hoffman, of Brooklyn, a member of the crew to repair the Hubble Space Telescope in 1993. There is also a display dedicated to the biography and memorabilia of William Shepherd, a Babylon native who flew in the first mission to live on the International Space Station in the early 2000s.

New to the exhibit is a biography of Moghbeli, who was selected by NASA to join the Astronaut Candidate Class of 2017. As she walked through the museum, she talked about what it meant to be featured as one of the 12 astronauts from Long Island.

“I think for me it feels weird when you see yourself,” she told the Herald. “You know all your flaws and all those things, so it’s weird to think of myself as a role model for someone else.”

As a child, she was inspired by Mike Massimino, an Oceanside native who was selected as a NASA astronaut in May 1996. Massimino flew on two space shuttle missions in 2002 and 2009 before retiring in 2014.

In sixth grade at Lenox Elementary School — at the time, the junior high school housed the seventh and eighth grades — Moghbeli was assigned a book

report, and she wrote about the Russian Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel in space. Moghbeli doesn’t remember exactly why she chose Tereshkova, but the assignment sparked her interest in aviation.

“That’s when I remember really thinking, like, ‘Oh, I want to do this.

This is something to do,’” she recalled.

“As a kid I thought it was exciting and adventurous. Growing up, I learned more about it, making me want to be involved in human space exploration even more.”

Moghbeli was born in Bad Nauheim, Germany, and her family came to the United States when she was a baby.

After graduating from Baldwin High School in 2001, she rose to the rank of

lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps and became an AH-1W Super Cobra pilot and Marine Corps test pilot. She logged over 150 combat missions in Afghanistan and 2,000 hours of flight time. She holds a master’s degree in aerospace engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in California, and now lives in Houston.

Last year, Moghbeli was selected to travel to the International Space Station on NASA’s SpaceX Crew-7 mission.

After blasting off on Aug. 26, she returned on March 12, after 199 days in space.

At the museum’s planetarium theater, she spoke to more than 300 elementary school students from Franklin Square, Freeport and Uniondale about how she became an astronaut and her experience

at the space station. The following day, she returned to Lenox Elementary School to spend the day with students.

Asked about the support she has received from the school district and the community — including her image on the “Welcome to Baldwin” mural on the wall of Deli Boy on Atlantic Avenue — Moghbeli said it was nothing less than overwhelming, though sharing the journey wasn’t always easy.

“One of the hardest lessons for me to learn was that you are going to fail,” she said. “If you’re pushing yourself and it feels horrible in the moment, but if you care about what you’re doing, you just have to keep trying.

“Try a different way — get help,” she added. “Be creative. It won’t be the end of the story.”

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald
Astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, who was raised in Baldwin, returned to Long Island last week, first making a trip to the Cradle of Aviation Museum to see its ‘Future is Now’ exhibit.
Fellow Long Island native William Shepherd’s equipment and memorabilia are on display in the exhibit.
Other Long Island astronauts are featured in the exhibit. A total of 12, including Moghbeli, have been in space.

You bake it in the oven. My mom and dad go to the store and look for one with meat and bones — bigger than me! Then they bake it for one second.

How To Make A Turkey

You get the turkey from the store and the store gets it from the farm. You cut it up and throw it on the stove for one hour. My dad cuts the turkey into small pieces.

Madison Sinclair, age 5,

My mommy takes everything she needs to make a turkey like lettuce, mashed avocados, tomatoes, and carrots. You cut a hole at the top and stuff it in. We have to cut it and it will bleed like yuck!

The turkey comes from the wild. You put six butters in the turkey and then a lemon to make it juicy and onions. My mom and nana put the turkey on the stove. We eat it with potatoes and marshmallows.

I would go the store and I would make a list to know what ingredients I would need. But I don’t know so I would ask my mom. Then we put it somewhere, but I don’t know where. Then it gets cooked and it gets hard. My dad eats the most turkey!

Oceanside
James Brucia, age 5, North Massapequa
Evangeline Lynch, age 6, Malverne
Peter Ferrante, age 6, Valley Stream
Luna Cappadora, age 5, Baldwin

New congestion pricing plan reduces tolls

New York City’s congestion pricing program is back, with a revised pricing plan, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Nov. 14. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority board gave a near-unanimous green light to the updated toll program this week. The decision effectively ends a roughly five-month pause the governor abruptly announced in June, just weeks ahead of congestion pricing’s anticipated launch.

At the time, Hochul raised concerns about the financial burden the program would create on motorists.

“As I said from the start, a $15 toll was just too high in this economic climate,” she said last week. “By getting congestion pricing underway and fully supporting the MTA capital plan, we’ll unclog our streets, reduce pollution, and deliver public transit for millions of New Yorkers.”

How much will drivers pay?

Originally, regular passenger vehicles traveling south of 60th Street in Manhattan were to be charged $15 on top of the tolls already paid. That toll has now been reduced to a $9 charge, a 40 percent drop. The scale-back will save regular Manhattan commuters $1,500 per year while, overall, the program will generate an estimated $15 billion in revenue for the transit agency.

While the rollout is set for January, the plan’s opponents, including the state of New Jersey and President-elect Donald Trump, are looking to block its implementation in the courts. Experts note that shelving the tolling program altogether would have left the MTA’s financial future in doubt. Because of the

pause, the agency was already facing a gaping $500 million funding hole.

But some observers are scratching their heads over what they describe as the governor’s questionable calculus — promising to deliver all of the original estimated revenue despite charging only 60 percent of the original toll.

“How does the MTA end up with $15 billion with a $9 base toll?” transportation advocate Larry Penner said. “It previously required a $15 base toll to do the same. Who did the math?”

Long Island grumbles over toll program

Time and time again, transit leaders and supporters have said the tolling program will steer transportation off city streets and onto public transit, making the streets more navigable for emergency vehicles, reduce emissions, and put the largest transit system in the country on firmer financial footing.

“New Yorkers deserve cleaner air, safer streets and ambulances that can get to them without gridlock, and the governor is stepping up for them and for riders who need trains and buses to get them where they have to go…” MTA chairman and CEO Janno Lieber said.

Nevertheless, the program remains deeply unpopular with many on Long Island. Local leaders fear that a plan designed to ease congestion in Manhattan streets could create more of it in Long Island Rail Road station parking lots. Critics also say that forking over an extra charge for doing business in the city will hurt the bottom line of Long Island trucking companies and trades workers. Large trucks and sightseeing buses are expected to pay an extra toll of roughly $22. Small trucks and non-commuter buses will be charged $14.40.

Herald file photo
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s revised congestion pricing plan lowers tolls for drivers but increases the pressure on the MTA to meet its funding goals.

welcome to

LI

David Paterson steps into the ring with Sammy Chu

Sands New York Senior Vice President and Former Governor trains Long Island Fight for Charity Boxer

On Oct. 25, Sands New York's Senior Vice President David Paterson joined community leader and volunteer boxer Sammy Chu in the boxing ring to help raise awareness for the upcoming Long Island Fight for Charity. Sands is a sponsor of the Nov. 25 event that raises funds for charities across Long Island.

Recently titled the "Real Life Daredevil," former New York State Governor Paterson brought his fghting spirit to the ring, ofering tips and even sparring with Chu.

Paterson, who recently made headlines for defending himself and his stepson during an attack in New York City, shared, “It’s inspiring to see dedicated individuals like Sammy step up for causes that truly make a diference. Sands is proud to back an event that amplifes community strength and supports so many critical organizations on Long Island.”

The training session took place at the Academy of Boxing in Huntington

just days before ofcials announced that the main event match-up will be between Chu and Rob “The Big Show” Madden. Proceeds from the event will beneft local charities chosen by the boxers, including Chu’s selections: EAC Network and the New York League of Conservation Voters.

Sands’ sponsorship of the event reinforces its commitment to supporting meaningful causes worth fghting for and strengthening the Long Island community through impactful partnerships.

To watch the promotional video visit Sands New York on Facebook. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit LIFightforCharity.org.

Scan this QR code to watch the promotional video of the Fight for Charity event or visit Sands New York on Facebook.

EAC Network’s Building Bridges Gala celebrates community champions with Sands’ Support

At the Garden City Hotel, the 2024 Building Bridges Gala came to life in a night of dancing, celebration, and fundraising for EAC Network’s essential work across Long Island and NYC. As a sponsor, Sands New York matched $25,000 in donations raised during the event’s table raise, helping to support EAC’s outreach to over 65,000 individuals through 100 critical programs.

Honoring community leaders, the gala spotlighted Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and NY State Senator Monica Martinez for their public service contributions, reinforcing the evening’s mission to strengthen local support networks.

“Sands is proud to partner with EAC Network to amplify their work in empowering families, protecting children, and supporting seniors across the region,” said Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Ofcer for Sands New York. “We’re honored to stand alongside such a dedicated organization and community-minded leaders.”

The developer of a proposed multi-billion-dollar fagship hospitality and entertainment project on Long Island

Photo provided by Sands
Sands New York Senior Vice President David Patterson trains Long Island Fight for Charity boxer Sammy Chu.
Photos provided by Sands
Sands New York not only served as a sponsor of the EAC Network’s Building Bridges Gala but also matched $25,000 in donations raised during the event.

Celebrating local entrepreneurs at the Nassau Council of Chambers Legislative Breakfast

Sands New York proudly sponsored the 34th Annual Small Business Person of the Year and Legislative Breakfast, hosted by the Nassau Chamber of Commerce. This important event honored outstanding local entrepreneurs while providing a platform for discussion on the challenges facing small businesses today. Sands remains committed to empowering the local economy through collaboration and support for small businesses. The breakfast was a valuable opportunity for fostering connections that will help drive future growth in the community.

Taste of the Harvest marks a celebration of community, cuisine, and compassion

Island Harvest's annual Taste of the Harvest Celebration brought Long Island’s vibrant culinary scene together for an evening of exceptional favors, all to support hunger relief and food rescue programs. Held at the spacious Crest Hollow Country Club, the event showcased a variety of tastings from top local chefs, restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

This year’s celebration not only highlighted delicious local fare but also underscored Island Harvest's critical mission to end hunger across Long Island, ofering guests an opportunity to support a powerful cause while savoring unique dishes and beverages.

"Sands is honored to support this year’s Taste of the Harvest celebration, an inspiring gathering of Long Island’s food community coming together to fght hunger,” said Tracey Edwards of Sands New York. “Island Harvest’s impact across Long Island is invaluable, and we’re proud to be part of an event that celebrates local favors while supporting such a critical mission.”

This year’s event honored outstanding community advocates and local leaders who have signifcantly contributed to advancing food security across the region, recognizing their tireless eforts in fghting hunger.

Sands New York hosted a booth at the Uniondale Community Fall Festival, held at the John J. Byrne Community Center on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The event was a day flled with fun, entertainment, and community spirit, featuring activities for all ages, local vendors, performances, and opportunities to support community organizations. The Sands booth included a pumpkin patch and pumpkin painting to festival goers.

Sands New York brings community spirit to Oyster Fest

The annual Oyster Fest in Oyster Bay drew in crowds from across the region, celebrating Long Island’s local heritage with fresh oysters, delicious food, and family-friendly activities. Sands New York returned as a proud sponsor for the second consecutive year, ofering free give-aways, face painting, and hosting the event’s beer tent.

Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Ofcer for Sands said, “Oyster Fest is an iconic fall event for Long Island that really celebrates the spirit and history of our magnifcent north shore—and Sands New York is thrilled to be a sponsor for the second year in a row. This event serves as a great time for families to come out and try all types of local treats, support local businesses, and enjoy the beautiful town of Oyster Bay. We are looking forward to getting to know more of our neighbors this year and shucking some oysters alongside them! “

This year’s festival ofered carnival rides, live music, and a bustling arts-and-crafts fair, providing ample opportunities for residents and visitors alike to explore and support local businesses.

Sands New York sponsors AHRC Annual Candlelight Ball

Sands New York proudly served as a sponsor for the recent AHRC Annual Candlelight Ball, an event dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The ball brought together community leaders, families, and supporters to raise funds for AHRC Sufolk’s mission: to provide dynamic, innovative, and integrated services where children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities discover and defne their own quality of life. The AHRC’s essential programs empower and enrich the lives of over 1,500 individuals across Long Island.

The evening was flled with heartfelt moments, showcasing the talent and achievements of those served by AHRC. Sands is committed to fostering community partnerships and contributing to meaningful initiatives that align with its values. This sponsorship refects Sands' dedication to supporting local organizations that make a positive impact.

Spooktacular Trunk or Treat in East Meadow

Sands New York was excited to sponsor the East Meadow Trunk or Treat, where families gathered for a festive Halloween celebration. This fun-flled event featured creatively decorated vehicles ofering treats, creating a safe and exciting environment for kids. Sands is dedicated to supporting community events that bring families together and celebrate local traditions. With laughter and joy in the air, the event was a fantastic way for families to connect and enjoy the Halloween spirit in East Meadow.

Photo provided by Sands Island Harvest’s annual Taste of the Harvest brings together Long Island to fight hunger relief and food programs.
Sands New York hosted a booth at the Uniondale Community Fall festival Photo provided by
Photos provided by Sands
For the second year running, Sands New York served as a proud sponsor of Oyster Fest.
Photo provided by Sands
The AHRC Annual Candlelight Ball is an event that supports individuals and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Photo provided by Sands Sands New York sponsored this year’s Trunk or Treat in East Meadow.

Celebrating local entrepreneurs at the Nassau Council of Chambers Legislative Breakfast

Sands New York proudly sponsored the 34th Annual Small Business Person of the Year and Legislative Breakfast, hosted by the Nassau Chamber of Commerce. This important event honored outstanding local entrepreneurs while providing a platform for discussion on the challenges facing small businesses today. Sands remains committed to empowering the local economy through collaboration and support for small businesses. The breakfast was a valuable opportunity for fostering connections that will help drive future growth in the community.

Taste of the Harvest marks a celebration of community, cuisine, and compassion

Island Harvest's annual Taste of the Harvest Celebration brought Long Island’s vibrant culinary scene together for an evening of exceptional favors, all to support hunger relief and food rescue programs. Held at the spacious Crest Hollow Country Club, the event showcased a variety of tastings from top local chefs, restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

This year’s celebration not only highlighted delicious local fare but also underscored Island Harvest's critical mission to end hunger across Long Island, ofering guests an opportunity to support a powerful cause while savoring unique dishes and beverages.

"Sands is honored to support this year’s Taste of the Harvest celebration, an inspiring gathering of Long Island’s food community coming together to fght hunger,” said Tracey Edwards of Sands New York. “Island Harvest’s impact across Long Island is invaluable, and we’re proud to be part of an event that celebrates local favors while supporting such a critical mission.”

This year’s event honored outstanding community advocates and local leaders who have signifcantly contributed to advancing food security across the region, recognizing their tireless eforts in fghting hunger.

Sands New York hosted a booth at the Uniondale Community Fall Festival, held at the John J. Byrne Community Center on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The event was a day flled with fun, entertainment, and community spirit, featuring activities for all ages, local vendors, performances, and opportunities to support community organizations. The Sands booth included a pumpkin patch and pumpkin painting to festival goers.

Sands New York brings community spirit to Oyster Fest

The annual Oyster Fest in Oyster Bay drew in crowds from across the region, celebrating Long Island’s local heritage with fresh oysters, delicious food, and family-friendly activities. Sands New York returned as a proud sponsor for the second consecutive year, ofering free give-aways, face painting, and hosting the event’s beer tent.

Tracey Edwards, Senior Vice President and Corporate Social Responsibility Ofcer for Sands said, “Oyster Fest is an iconic fall event for Long Island that really celebrates the spirit and history of our magnifcent north shore—and Sands New York is thrilled to be a sponsor for the second year in a row. This event serves as a great time for families to come out and try all types of local treats, support local businesses, and enjoy the beautiful town of Oyster Bay. We are looking forward to getting to know more of our neighbors this year and shucking some oysters alongside them! “

This year’s festival ofered carnival rides, live music, and a bustling arts-and-crafts fair, providing ample opportunities for residents and visitors alike to explore and support local businesses.

Sands New York sponsors AHRC Annual Candlelight Ball

Sands New York proudly served as a sponsor for the recent AHRC Annual Candlelight Ball, an event dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The ball brought together community leaders, families, and supporters to raise funds for AHRC Sufolk’s mission: to provide dynamic, innovative, and integrated services where children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities discover and defne their own quality of life. The AHRC’s essential programs empower and enrich the lives of over 1,500 individuals across Long Island.

The evening was flled with heartfelt moments, showcasing the talent and achievements of those served by AHRC. Sands is committed to fostering community partnerships and contributing to meaningful initiatives that align with its values. This sponsorship refects Sands' dedication to supporting local organizations that make a positive impact.

Spooktacular Trunk or Treat in East Meadow

Sands New York was excited to sponsor the East Meadow Trunk or Treat, where families gathered for a festive Halloween celebration. This fun-flled event featured creatively decorated vehicles ofering treats, creating a safe and exciting environment for kids. Sands is dedicated to supporting community events that bring families together and celebrate local traditions. With laughter and joy in the air, the event was a fantastic way for families to connect and enjoy the Halloween spirit in East Meadow.

Photo provided by Sands Island Harvest’s annual Taste of the Harvest brings together Long Island to fight hunger relief and food programs.
Sands New York hosted a booth at the Uniondale Community Fall festival Photo provided by
Photos provided by Sands
For the second year running, Sands New York served as a proud sponsor of Oyster Fest.
Photo provided by Sands
The AHRC Annual Candlelight Ball is an event that supports individuals and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Photo provided by Sands Sands New York sponsored this year’s Trunk or Treat in East Meadow.

Las Vegas Sands awards hospitality scholarships

Sands teams with Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities to select 13 recipients

Las Vegas Sands announced it partnered with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities to award 13 students at HACU-member schools with Sands Hospitality Advancement Scholarships in support of their preparation for careers in the travel, tourism, and leisure industry.

“HACU is excited to partner with Las Vegas Sands in this scholarship supporting students who are working towards a career in the hospitality industry,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “Our nation’s HispanicServing Institutions have always been conduits for talent to all industries and these scholarships provide fnancial assistance to students who show promise and commitment to their future success.”

Sands established the Sands Hospitality Advancement Scholarships with HACU, the only national association representing Hispanic-serving Institutions, as part of the company’s commitment

to building a thriving hospitality industry workforce.

“We want to help cultivate diverse and highly capable talent to support the strength of our industry,” Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate afairs, who spearheads corporate responsibility initiatives at Sands, said. “This program joins a number of initiatives we have to help ensure the hospitality industry can best capitalize on its continued growth with a solid pipeline of future talent, while empowering people from diferent backgrounds to enter the feld.”

Sands’ broad array of hospitality education initiatives include the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the Sands Hospitality Scholarship Program in Singapore, underwriting for the 2024 University of North Texas Las Vegas Study Tour, other scholarship funding and partnerships with higher education

institutions, on-property and industry-supported training opportunities for students and hospitality professionals, and mentorship and instruction from company leaders.

The company’s focus on hospitality education is a core component of its 2021-2025 ambition to invest $200 million in

Sands Brings the Fun to Merrick Street Fair

The Merrick Street Fair, held Oct. 26-27, was a blast, and Sands New York was right there cheering on the festivities! With a lively atmosphere flled with tasty food, local crafts, and fantastic entertainment, the fair brought the community together. Families and friends enjoyed live music and fun activities, creating lasting memories. Sands is thrilled to support events like this that celebrate the spirit of local communities and encourage everyone to come together and have a great time.

workforce development. At the end of 2023, Sands had contributed $181 million toward achieving this target.

Funding for the Sands Hospitality Advancement Scholarships comes through the Sands Cares global community engagement program.

Photo provided by Sands
The Sands Hospitality Advancement Scholarship is just one of many hospitality education initiatives, including the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.
Photo provided by Sands Sands New York was proud to participate in this year’s Merrick Street Fair.

STEPPING OUT

A very merry celebration at UBS Arena

Explore Christmas magic with festive films and seasonal wonders at the first

Great American Family Christmas Festival

‘Tis the season: so let’s get jolly! UBS Arena’s Northwell Park is just the place to do so — with a visit to the inaugural Great American Family Christmas Festival, now through Jan. 5.

Great American Media is partnering with UBS Arena and the New York Islanders to bring Christmas joy to new heights at what is one of the largest experiential holiday festivals in the country, according to the creative team.

It involves holiday movie world premieres, traditional Christmas tree lightings nightly, TikTokworthy holiday experiences throughout — an immersive experience for the entire family. Also meet the stars of Great American Christmas movies, weekends, along with film screenings, Q&As, panels, and scheduled photo ops.

“Over the past decade, my team and I have envisioned a Christmas festival that will attract people and offer fans a chance to meet the stars of our movies and immerse themselves in a oneof-a-kind festive experience,” Great American Media President-CEO Bill Abbott says.

With almost 100 Christmas movies produced, Great American’s Christmas franchise has warmed the hearts of audiences since its start in 2021.

“Our Christmas movies are all about an experience,” Abbott notes.

The ‘experience’ has now evolved from the screen to a fully immersive event.

“You think about what you do as a family between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and there really isn’t a lot to do. So we wanted to create that experience — when you walk in, you smell, see and feel Christmas,” he explains. “It’s a dream come true on so many levels.”

Visitors will find an ideal winter wonderland filled with five whimsical villages to explore, each offering numerous activities for all ages.

Start your journey by walking through Candy Cane Lane’s red and white arches, where you can snap some stylish “eflies” (Christmas selfies!) to add to the family Christmas album.

Next, you might want to head over to Santa’s Craft Village, where you can create personalized decorations — wreaths, holly and ornaments — to ‘deck the halls.’ Or even craft a do-it-yourself gift for someone special.

If you’re in the mood to skate, you don’t have to be on the Islanders to enjoy the rink at Frosty’s Frozen Skate. And when you need a break after gliding on the sparkling ice, cozy up at one of the fire pits nearby to chase away the chill.

The holidays always involve food, of course, and you’ll find all sorts of treats at the Eat, Drink, and Be Merry Village. Indulge in such classics as hot chocolate, giant candy canes, and gooey s’mores with peppermint twists. The village also offers private rentals of VIP igloos and firepits, by the way, creating an inviting atmosphere for corporate entertaining and socializing.

Much like Rudolph’s red nose, Rudolph’s Main Stage is a bright beacon, where the festival “community” gathers. Sing along to Christmas carols at “Carol-oke” or cheer on participants in the Ugly Sweater Contest. To add even more merriment to your day, screenings of 18 new Christmas films will be featured along with in-person meet-and-greets with many of the stars.

Among the movies, don’t miss “Home Sweet Christmas,” premiering on Nov. 23. It follows childhood friends — Sam and Sophie — who are brought back together by the unexpected shared ownership of a charming tree farm.

“This is a beautiful, sweet story. It’s about long-lost love that’s reconnected. It’s about second

• Now through Jan. 5

• Tickets start at $15, with varied ticket packages available

• Go to greatamericanfamily christmasfestival.com to purchase tickets and for more information

• Northwell Park at UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont

chances at life, and it’s about the magic and mystery of Christmas,” says Cameron Mathison, who stars as Sam.

His co-star, Candace Cameron Bure is no stranger to Christmas film magic either.

“It’s such a beautiful genre that I have been lucky enough to be a part of since it really took off,” Bure says.“People come to love these Christmas movies, and they tune in year after year. There’s something so comforting about them, and it’s a time you can gather with your family and just be together.”

Guests can join the festivities with Bure and Mathison during opening weekend. Other star appearances include husband-and-wife duo Mario and Courtney Lopez. Be sure to check the website for a complete list of all special guests and their scheduled appearance.

And, naturally, the holiday celebration wouldn’t be complete without a bright and beautiful Christmas tree lighting ceremony, when Candace Cameron Bure will help usher in the festive season at the first lighting.

“For us, being involved in a project like this, and having the opportunity to put on something with partners who care so deeply is just fantastic,” Abbott says enthusiastically.

“And in New York. There’s no place like Christmas in New York.”

Whether you are going to take in the movies, meet the stars, or enjoy some family activities, the festival invites everyone to live their own Christmas story.

“What I’m most excited about is the essence of it. You’re almost in your own little version of a Great American Christmas movie,” Mathison adds.“You’re engulfed in Christmas.”

And who knows? While there, perhaps you’ll find your very own Christmas miracle.

Songbird

Experience the sensational voice of Karine Hannah as she brings “Songbird: The Singular Tribute to Barbra Streisand” to life. Her musical palette and vocal capabilities are wide and varied, but her passion for singing and performing Streisand’s music has been her signature and staple since childhood. Accompanied by her band Water Colors she delivers Streisand’s hits with emotional depth and authenticity. From her humorous and bawdy onstage banter to her breathtaking renditions of timeless classics, Hannah’s tribute is more than just a concert; it’s a heartfelt celebration of Streisand’s enduring legacy. As Karine reimagines Streisand’s beloved songs, you’ll be transported through decades of unforgettable music, filled with the passion and artistry that have made Streisand a living legend.

Saturday, Nov. 23, 8 p.m. $54. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

The Weight Band

The Weight Band — helmed by by Jim Weider, a 15-year former member of The Band, who replaced Robbie Robertson — pays tribute to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ensemble’s timeless and enduring 1968 album “Music from Big Pink,” on the Paramount stage. Named for the classic The Band song “The Weight,” The Weight showcases the album in its entirety, along with outtakes and other favorites by The Band. The concert also include cuts from their latest album “Shines Like Gold,” a dynamic set of classic Americana that draws upon roadhouse rock, funky swamp pop, blues, country soul, and folk music. Drummer Levon Helm urged Weider to launch The Weight Band in 2013, as a vehicle for carrying onThe Band’s musical legacy.

Sunday, Nov. 24, 7 p.m. $45, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

CourtesyUBS Arena/Dennis DaSilva
Unwrap some holiday cheer and immerse yourself in the wonders of the season at UBS Arena’s festive extravaganza.
Courtesy Great American Family
Screen a movie at the festival with the film’s stars.
“Home Sweet Christmas” kicks off the film schedule with Cameron Mathison and Candace Cameron Bure.

Your Neighborhood

THE

Dark Star Orchestra

The Grateful Dead have been resurrected in the form of Dark Star Orchestra. The band brings its Fall tour to the Paramount stage, Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29-30, t 8 p.m. Formed in 1997, this tribute band came up with the novel idea of recreating complete sets from The Grateful Dead’s gigantic list of concerts. They adapt their playing and sound depending on what era of Dead they’re tackling on the night, and while they slavishly recreate the sound of the band down to the minutest detail, they also embark on epic improvisations that would make their heroes proud. Performing to critical acclaim for over 3,100 shows, DSO continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience. Their shows are built off the Dead’s extensive catalog and the talent of these seven fine musicians.

On any given night, the band will perform a show based on a set list from the Dead’s 30 years of extensive touring or use their catalog to program a unique set list for the show. This allows fans both young and old to share in the experience. By recreating set lists from the past, and by developing their own sets of Dead songs, DSO offers a continually evolving artistic outlet within this musical canon. Honoring both the band and the fans, Dark Star Orchestra’s members seek out the unique style and sound of each era while simultaneously offering their own informed improvisations. Dark Star Orchestra offers much more than the sound of the Grateful Dead, they truly encapsulate the energy and the experience. It’s about a sense of familiarity. It’s about a feeling that grabs listeners and takes over. It’s about that contagious energy — in short, it’s about the complete experience and consistent quality show that the fan receives when attending a DSO show. $99.50, $69.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Let’s Talk Turkey

Long Island Children’s Museum is gearing up for Thanksgiving, Sunday, Nov. 24, 1-4 p.m. As Thanksgiving is approaching, get ready by creating a colorful turkey, at the drop-in program. Take your terrific turkey home to adorn your Thanksgiving table. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. Visit LICM.org or call (516) 224-5800 for more information.

Calvary Tabernacle Thanksgiving Dinner

Partake in a community Thanksgiving dinner, Thursday, Nov. 28, noon-3 p.m., at Calvary Tabernacle Church. For more information on how to be involved, call (516) 292-3685. 253A Fulton Ave., Hempstead.

Thankful Storytime and Craft

Kids in grades K-5 can join Miss Anita with their families for a story about thankfulness and a craft to follow, at Uniondale Library, Friday, Nov. 22, 4:30-5:30 p.m. 400 Uniondale Ave. For more information or to register, visit UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220.

Tea time

The festive season is underway at Old Westbury Gardens. Enjoy a cream tea (featuring scones, Devonshire cream, assorted sweets, and tea), then a guided tour of decorated Westbury House, Tuesday, dec. 3, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3 p.m.; Wednesday, dec. 4, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3:30 p.m.; Thursday, dec. 5, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3 p.m. $22.50 per person. Additional dates available. Advance registration suggested. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.

Drive-Thru Veterans Winter Stand Down

Town of Hempstead hosts a drive-thru event where clothes, winter boots, toiletries and non-perishable foods are available to veterans, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at Freeport Armory. Housing and counseling alsoavailable. 63 Babylon Tpke., Freeport. For more information, call (516) 572-6565.

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, through Jan. 7. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

Holiday Tales At The Hearth

Visit Sands Point Preserve’s Hempstead House and join in the holiday cheer, Sunday, Dec. 8, 1-4 p.m. The familyfriendly event includes activities for all ages. Meet and take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy jazz and holiday music with Port Jazz Project, along with seasonal crafts, Dreidel Corner, “nutty” holiday scavenger hunt, reading nook with holiday and winter stories, and puppet shows with Wonderspark Puppets at 2 and 3 p.m. 127 Middle Neck Road. Admission is $40/car, members; $45/car nonmembers, includes parking. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Having an event?

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues Saturday, Nov. 23, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork.

Kids and their adult partners connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. Registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for more information and to register or call (516) 484-9337.

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

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

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

In concert

Plaza Theatricals’ welcomes everyone to a “Motown Holiday Dance Party,” Sunday, Dec. 8, 4 p.m. Celebrate the holidays in true Motown style. Enjoy a sensational afternoon of soulful tunes, joyful dancing, and nostalgic vibes at the electrifying concert. Get ready to groove, spread the festive cheer and make unforgettable memories. See the show at 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $40, $35 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Creating Your Estate Plan

Financial Advisor Kyle Hauptman gives a presentation on how to create an estate plan, at Uniondale Library, Monday, Nov. 25, 7-8:30 p.m. 400 Uniondale Ave. For more information or to register, visit UniondaleLibrary.org or call (516) 489-2220.

21,

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NEWREZ LLC, F/K/A NEW PENN FINANCIAL, LLC DBA SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, -against-

OSCAR CLARA, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Offce of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 23, 2023, wherein NEWREZ LLC, F/K/A NEW PENN FINANCIAL, LLC DBA SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING is the Plaintiff and OSCAR CLARA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s).

I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY

SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 2, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 305 CHESTER STREET, UNIONDALE, NY 11553; and the following tax map identifcation: 50-48-15 & 16.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT UNIONDALE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index No.: 605776/2017. Howard Eric Colton, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 149725

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES

2016-CTT, Plaintiff AGAINST MICHAEL MCKENZIE AKA MICHAEL

L. MCKENZIE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 27, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 11, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 674 Henry Street, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the

buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 119, Lot 552-556. Approximate amount of judgment $518,021.92 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index #611774/2017. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-003000 82577 149781

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR CABANA SERIES V TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. LEGACY INV. & MANAGEMENT GROUP, LLC; ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confrming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 16, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 18, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 732 Jerusalem Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 50, Block 309 and Lots 237 & 238. Approximate amount of judgment is $471,689.08 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fled Judgment Index # 615085/2023.

Joseph Trotti, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 202067-2 150009

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 10th day of December, 2024, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:

BALDWIN HOWARD PLACE - west side, starting at a point 41 feet north of the north curbline of Stanton Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-436/24)

BELLEROSE TERRACE

239th STREET - west side, starting at a point 64 feet north of the north curbline of Superior Road, north for a distance of 15 feet.

(TH-432/24)

ELMONT

BLACKSTONE STREETnorth side, starting at a point 48 feet east of the east curbline of Gotham Avenue, east for a distance of 19 feet.

(TH-375(B)/24)

BELMONT BOULEVARDeast side, starting at a point 293 feet north of the north curbline of Rosalind Avenue, north for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-446/24)

JACOB STREET - east side, starting at a point 122 feet south of the south curbline of Rosalind Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-465/24)

LANGDON STREET - north side, starting at a point 37 feet east of the east curbline of Clement Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-461/24)

FRANKLIN SQUARE

HERMAN AVENUE - south side, starting at a point 188 feet west of the west curbline of Birch Street, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-507/24)

GARDEN CITY SOUTH

WELLINGTON ROAD

SOUTH - west side, starting at a point 45 feet south of the south curbline of Terrace Avenue, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(Tha-457/24)

LEVITTOWN

BLUE GRASS LANE - north side, starting at a point 120 feet east of the east curbline of Shelter Lane, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(485/24)

ROOSEVELT

EAST RAYMOND AVENUE - north side, starting at a

point 321 feet east of the east curbline of Nassau Road, east for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-472/24) (NR)VALLEY STREAM

DeWITT STREET - east side, starting at a point 66 feet south of the south curbline of Oliver Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-439/24) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

(NR) LAWRENCE WEST AVENUE - west side, starting at a point 30 feet north of a point opposite the north curbline of North Street, north for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-121/12 - 7/10/12)

(TH-473/24)

SEAFORD HICKORY STREET - north side, starting at a point 310 feet west of the west curbline of Jackson Avenue, west for a distance of 14 feet.

(TH-322/21 - 9/23/21)

(TH-495/24)

WEST HEMPSTEAD PARK AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 162 feet north of Lincoln Place, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-493/02 - 12/03/02)

(TH-499/24)

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: November 19, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARDOF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY 150092

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Hall Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 10th day of December, 2024, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 192-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead by the insertion of a location into subdivision “X” thereof, in relation to gross weight restrictions upon commercial vehicles using certain town highways, as follows: “X” - ROOSEVELT HENRY STREET - between Brookside Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue. (TH-438/24)

The proposed local law is on fle in the offce of the Town Clerk of the Town of Hempstead, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, where same may be inspected during offce hours.

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid. Dated: November 19, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARDOF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150088

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 10th day of December, 2024, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations:

BALDWIN

BALDWIN AVENUE (TH 492/24) South Side -NO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 238 feet east of the east curbline of Walnut Street, then east for a distance of 30 feet.

BELLMORE

ROYLE STREET (TH 452/24) North Side - NO

PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 22 feet west of the west curbline of Bellmore Avenue, then west for a distance of 78 feet.

ROYLE STREET (TH 452/24) North Side - NO

PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 286 feet west of the west curbline of Bellmore Avenue, then west for a distance of 518 feet.

VIRGINIA DRIVE (TH 440/24) North Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Robert Avenue, east for a distance of 30 feet.

ROBERT AVENUE (TH 440/24) West Side -NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Virginia Drive, north for a distance of 49 feet.

ROBERT AVENUE (TH 440/24) East Side - NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Robert Avenue, north for a distance of 30 feet.

LUCILLE AVENUE (TH 475/24) West Side -NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Russell Street, north for a distance of 30 feet.

LUCILLE AVENUE (TH 475/24) East Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from thenorth curbline of Russell Street, north for a distance of 30 feet.

RUSSELL STREET (TH 475/24) North Side - NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Lucille Avenue, east for a distance of 30 feet.

FRANKLIN SQUARE LUCILLE AVENUE (TH 498/24) East Side - NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of Russell Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.

RUSSELL STREET (TH 498/24) South Side -NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Lucille Avenue, east for a distance of 22 feet.

HERMAN AVENUE (TH 507/24) South Side - NO

PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 12 feet west of the west curbline of Birch Street then west for a distance of 176 feet.

HERMAN AVENUE (TH 507/24) South Side - NO PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 208 feet west of the west curbline of Birch Street then west to the east curbline of Hewlett Street.

HEWLETT EAST

ROCKAWAY ROAD (TH 435(B)/24) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Milbar Heath then east for a distance of 60 feet.

LEVITTOWN HEMPSTEAD TURNPIKE

NORTHSIDE MARGINAL ROAD -

(TH 334(B)/24)North SideNO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 175 feet east of the east curbline of Loring Road, east for a distance of 56 feet.

NORTH BELLMORE BELLMORE ROAD (TH 402(B)/24) West SideNO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 22 feet south of the south curbline of McKinley Avenue, south for a distance of 48 feet.

NORTH MERRICK JERUSALEM AVENUE (TH 501/24) North Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the west curbline of Tadmor Street, west for a distance of 30 feet.

OCEANSIDE LAWSON BOULEVARD (TH 450/24) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the north curbline of Weidner Avenue, north for a distance of 52 feet.

ROOSEVELT HENRY STREET (TH 438/24) North Side - NO PARKING ANYTIME - starting at a point 97 feet east of the east curbline of Brookside Avenue, then east for a distance of 25 feet.

SEAFORD OCEAN AVENUE (TH 444/24) East Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of Somerset Drive, south for a distance of 30 feet.

OCEAN AVENUE (TH 444/24) East Side - NO

PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 30 feet south of the south curbline of Somerset Drive, south to a point 30 feet north of the north curbline of Naomi Street.

(NR)VALLEY STREAM

ROSEDALE ROAD (TH 460/24) North Side - NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Laurel Hill Drive, then east for a distance of 45 feet.

ROSEDALE ROAD (TH 460/24) North Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the west curbline of Laurel Hill Drive, then west for a distance of 50 feet.

WOODMERE NORMAN WAY (TH 511/24) West Side - NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Carol Avenue north for a distance of 40 feet.

NORMAN WAY (TH 511/24) East Side - NO

STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Carol Avenue north for a distance of 38 feet.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 202-1 “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” from the following locations:

BALDWIN BALDWIN AVENUE (TH 346/24) South Side - NO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 239 feet east of the east curbline of Walnut Street, then east for a distance of 25 feet.

(Adopted 9/17/24)

BELLMORE ROYLE STREET (TH 175/92) North Side -NO PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at the west curbline of Bellmore Avenue, west to a point 140 feet east of the east curbline of Bedford Avenue.

(Adopted 10/27/92)

FRANKLIN SQUARE HERMAN AVENUE (TH 427/72) South Side - NO PARKING ANYTIMEstarting at the east curbline of Hewlett Avenue, east following the curvature of the road to the south curbline of Birch Street.

(Adopted 12/5/72)

LEVITTOWN HEMPSTEAD TURNPIKE (TH 334/24) North SideNO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at a point 175 feet east of the east curbline of Loring Road, east for a distance of 56 feet.

(Adopted 9/4/24)

NORTH MERRICK JERUSALEM AVENUE (TH 235/80) North Side - NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the west curbline of Tadmor Street, west for a distance of 15 feet.

(Adopted 7/22/80)

UNIONDALE WARWICK STREET (TH 263/16) North Side - NO STOPPING ANYTIMEstarting at the termination of the dead end, then west for a distance of 88 feet.

(Adopted 9/20/16) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: November 19, 2024

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARDOF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150085

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department.

Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

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

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

HBCI SUPERVISOR FT: Seeking LCSW or LMSW for Crisis Intervention Program, Cedarhurst NY. 3+ yr exp, Supervision exp. $80K Annually + benefits Claufer@hamaspikkings.org 516-875-8400 x144

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

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

A town complicates the permitting procedure

Stunning New Construction

Q. We want to add a bathroom on our second floor, where there is currently only a half bath. We bought the house a few months ago, and want to make things right with a baby on the way. We interviewed a couple of contractors, both of whom told us that they can do the job but don’t want to get permits. The architect we spoke with warned us that it may take longer, and his fees may be much higher, because the town we live in has greatly increased the amount of work that needs to be done to get a permit. I’m sure you recommend getting a permit, but what can we really anticipate? We really need to get this done.

A. The contractors and the architect are correct. Your town went from what may have been a simpler process to a much more involved one. It isn’t unusual for them to require plans of the entire home when all you want to do is a bathroom.

The typical scenario starts with calling the architect, who stops by and looks at what you want to do. You discuss with them the possible locations for the tub or shower, the toilet and sink, and where pipes will need to run for code compliance and to logically drain properly. The roof must also be looked at, to avoid putting the vent stack too close to a valley in the roof or an upper window or wall.

The plans used to be of the area where the bathroom was going, including the adjacent rooms and hallway access. At that point, the plans typically showed where smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are located, all for your safety. The architect will set up an agreement and time to measure, set up the plans over a time period based on their workload, and prepare the paperwork to submit.

An application fee is charged when the plans are filed and, once filed, they are assigned a reviewer and a number. At that point, depending on the reviewer’s concerns about the rest of the house, they may decide that more information is necessary. No matter what experience your architect has, they know there are an endless number of things that can be asked for. It has become common for reviewers to ask for entire house plans, when only the floor area where the bathroom is to be is necessary, above and below.

Often, the architect, anticipating what can be asked for, provides more than in the past, mainly to try to keep the process flowing and to get you to the point of a permit. The basic requirements in the drawings can sometimes be much more than was ever on any checklist, and can include direct quotes of code notes, for example. One examiner asked to have notes removed after another demanded to see them, so there is a perceived randomness to the process as well. Your architect can help you through this. Good luck!

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opinions

Trump makes the comeback of all comebacks

Donald Trump’s overwhelming victory in the presidential contest marked the most astonishing comeback in American political history, and a dramatic realignment of political coalition forces.

Only one previous president, Grover Cleveland, in the 19th century, was re-elected after being defeated in a bid for a second consecutive term. And no president, of course, has been elected after being indicted in state and federal courts, found guilty of multiple felonies in one of those cases, and found liable in a number of civil cases. Bottom line: There has never been a president like Donald Trump.

He has beaten the odds at every juncture since making his famous descent down the Trump Tower escalator in 2015. He was thought to have no chance to make it through the 2016 Republican presidential primaries, never mind win the nomination. And once he was the

president-elect Donald Trump issued a number of warnings during his successful campaign to return to the White House. He talked about exacting retribution against anyone who opposed him or had the temerity to alert the public about his positions. But the most significant statement that should have been given a warning label was Trump’s pledge to give Robert F. Kennedy Jr. a significant role in the nation’s health agencies. He is now Trump’s nominee to head the Department of Health and Human Services.

As a general rule, winning candidates have every right to reward supporters with cabinet position, but the possibility of giving RFK Jr. the authority to tell Americans what vaccines you can give your children or the medications you can give your elderly parents was not on the ballot this year. Respected scientists across the nation have been warning the public for years about the numerous conspira-

nominee, the main topic of debate was how large his landslide defeat would be.

Then, after his entirely unexpected election in 2016, he had to overcome a baseless but debilitating Russia collusion investigation and two impeachment trials. His refusal to accept his 2020 defeat, and his irresponsible delay in denouncing the Jan. 6 criminal riot at the U.S. Capitol, were thought by friend and foe to have ended his political career.

counties. The last Republican presidential nominee to do that was George H.W. Bush in 1988.

He was the first Republican to win the popular vote on L.I. since 1988.

Yet Trump re-emerged, a political Lazarus, and reclaimed by free and open balloting the highest office in the land and the most powerful position in the world. And it was a solid, overwhelming victory, considerably more impressive than his 2016 Electoral College win, in which he had razor-thin margins in key states, aided by votes siphoned from Hillary Clinton by third-party fringe candidates. In this year’s election he had solid vote margins in all of the battleground states, and was the first Republican to win the popular vote since George W. Bush in 2004.

Here on Long Island, Trump won the popular vote in Nassau and Suffolk

While I have had differences with the president-elect, I strongly supported his candidacy this year, just as I supported so much of his agenda when I was in Congress during his first term. Despite the almost constant swirl of controversy around him for those four years, his significant accomplishments included making the United States energy-independent, crushing ISIS and its Islamist caliphate, keeping us out of foreign wars, preventing aggression by Russia and China, expanding our economy, keeping inflation below 2 percent, making our southern border more secure than at any time in decades, and brokering the Abraham Accords with Israel and its Arab neighbors. The Biden-Harris record was the opposite in almost every regard, as reflected in its unfavorable ratings, mired in the high 50s.

Trump also tapped into the alienation felt by increasing numbers of Americans, who turned against progressive policies of open borders, cash-

Beware of RFK Jr. in D.C.

cy theories that RFK Jr. has spread that inflame public opinion. At the height of the coronavirus outbreak, then President Trump initiated Operation Warp Speed to make vaccines available for public use. At the same time, RFK Jr. was warning the public of the dangers of those vaccines.

T his promoter of conspiracies is the wrong choice for our health agencies.

An example of his antivaccine mistakes was the 2019 measles outbreak on the island of Samoa. In 2018, two children had died from a vaccine mixup, and RFK Jr. met with leading Samoan antivaxxers a few months before the outbreak, and they began to warn the public about the danger of taking any measles vaccinations. Following that meeting, the measles vaccination rate dropped from 60 percent to 31 percent.

Afraid to take the vaccine, island residents reported 83 deaths from measles, many of them young children. A year later, RFK Jr. labeled a leading Samoan anti-vaxxer a “medical freedom hero.” In spite of that outbreak, which he denied being involved in, he has subsequently traveled around the United States insisting that vaccines are causing a “holocaust.”

I have crossed paths with Kennedy

in the past. He was the chair of Riverkeeper, an environmental advocacy organization whose principal cause was its opposition to the Indian Point Energy Center, a nuclear-energy facility in Westchester County. Although he is an environmental attorney, he is not a scientist. During the battle to shut the plant down, he made numerous unsupported scientific claims about the facility, which were challenged frequently by its owners.

Because Kennedy has spread so many conspiracy theories, it is hard to pick his most outlandish claims. In 2006, in a Rolling Stone interview, he said he was “convinced that fraud during the 2004 presidential election allowed President George W. Bush to steal victory from Democrat John Kerry.” He asserted that Republicans had “mounted a massive, coordinated campaign to subvert the will of the people” and ensure Bush’s re-election. He claimed that “350,000 voters in Ohio were prevented from casting their ballots,” which turned out to be a glitch in the machines that was corrected.

Another of Kennedy’s conspiracy theories was his past insistence on the

less bail, anti-police bias, defunding the police, high inflation and increased gas and grocery prices. This caused traditional allies such as the Teamsters, hardhat construction unions and growing numbers of African-Americans and Hispanics to turn away from the Democratic leadership of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

Donald Trump and I grew up in Queens at the same time. Though Sunnyside and Jamaica Estates were in very different social strata, Trump definitely has working-class attitudes, and speaks the language of neighborhood families and values. As he prepares for his second term as president, he is uniquely positioned to restructure American politics and society to focus on greater empowerment for people who work hard, strive to live in safe communities and have endless belief in America’s exceptionalism. They believe that it isn’t racist or biased to prevent illegal immigrants from crossing our borders or to stand with the police. They are and will be integral allies of the 47th president as he strives to make America even greater.

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

innocence of his father’s murderer. On Dec. 8, 2021, Kennedy published an op-ed in the San Francisco Chronicle that claimed that Sirhan Sirhan was innocent and should be released from prison. On subsequent occasions, Kennedy supported Sirhan’s release from prison despite the unanimous opposition from the Kennedy family, including his mother, Ethel.

To give you an idea of what could occur if RFK Jr. is confirmed as secretary of HHS, it’s important to understand the powers of that cabinet position. RFK Jr. would be in charge of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health.

It should be noted that Kennedy has never held any government position, and his main claim to fame is that he is a member of a family that has been nothing less than a political dynasty. Hopefully, Congress will recognize the dangers of giving him such a major role in Washington.

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

JERRY KREMER

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Herald editorial

Shop local Nov. 30 — and every day

mall Business Saturday is Nov.

30. Created in 2010, this annual date is both a celebration and a promotion, dedicated to supporting mom-and-pop businesses and encouraging consumers to shop locally. There are few more significant dates on the calendar to show your support of local enterprises, because whether it’s the central shopping area of one of Long Island’s villages or the multitude of strip malls that dot the Nassau and Suffolk County landscapes, small businesses are the backbone of our communities.

They are more than just storefronts or online shops — they are deeply embedded in the fabric of our towns. They are owned and operated by neighbors, friends and families that have a vested interest in the well-being of their neighborhoods.

Yet despite the critical role they play in the local, regional and national economy, small businesses often struggle to compete against larger stores. As consumers, we must recognize their importance and actively support them to ensure not only their survival, but their success.

Small businesses are significant drivers of local economic activity, making up 99.9 percent of all U.S. businesses and accounting for nearly half of the country’s workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

letterS

Despairing? Avoid the ‘cacophony’ of the internet.

To the Editor:

Re Herald columnists Scott M. Davis (“A call for tolerance amid the acrimony”) and Will Sheeline (“What comes next? How about our neglected unity?”) and letter writer Mireille Taub (“Not giving in to ‘our season of despair’”) in last week’s issue:

For Mr. Davis, the first task is “tamping down the divisive rhetoric.” Mr. Sheeline notes the need “to heal the nation’s wounds,” and Ms. Taub feels “abandoned,” in need of a “torch” to illuminate the path to civility. Those of us who agree must realize that an opposition exists who promote divisive rhetoric for fun and profit, and who benefit from our open wounds and prefer treating them with salt rather than salve.

Among things to avoid are the cacophony of X, the empty “just askin’” stylists. Forgo the entertainments of online shouters and shills, for

Approximately 50 percent of our country’s gross domestic product is created by small businesses.

When you shop at a local boutique or dine at an independently owned restaurant, more of your money stays in the community. Studies show that roughly 67 cents of every dollar spent at a small business remains in the local economy, and every dollar spent at a small business creates an additional 50 cents of local economic activity. This “local multiplier effect” supports other businesses, schools, public services and infrastructure, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth.

Small businesses also bring diversity and innovation to the marketplace. Unlike big-box stores, which often rely on standardized products and services, small businesses can adapt quickly to the unique needs and preferences of community members. They can experiment with new ideas, foster creativity and offer personalized customer service that large chains simply cannot replicate. This adaptability not only benefits consumers but also encourages healthy competition, pushing more businesses to strive for excellence.

Small businesses enrich our lives by providing a sense of identity and authenticity. Walk down the main street of any village and you’ll find unique shops, eateries and services that reflect the culture, history and per-

sonality of the area. These businesses distinguish one community from another, creating vibrant destinations where people want to live, work and visit.

Shopping at a local store instead of a large retailer, ordering from a familyowned restaurant, and posting positive reviews online are small but meaningful ways to show support. Attending farmers markets, artisan fairs and community events also help small businesses. Voting for your favorite small business for a Herald Long Island Choice Award is another small gesture to acknowledge these shops; you can vote at LIChoiceAwards.com.

Local, state and federal government have and must continue to play a crucial role in fostering an environment in which small businesses can succeed. Small businesses need more tax incentives, affordable loan programs and streamlined regulations to alleviate the burdens their owners face, especially in light of high property taxes, inflation and competition from online retailers. We hope our elected officials embrace creative solutions to ensure that Long Island’s local stores can thrive.

Supporting your favorite small business doesn’t require a big effort — simple actions can have a profound impact. We urge you to shop at your local small businesses not only next Saturday, but every day of the year.

opinions

N.Y. needs to make entrepreneurship an option for all

our economy thrives on the spirit of entrepreneurship — new businesses solve problems, create jobs and contribute tax revenue. States like new york recognize this, offering programs and funding to support startups. But an essential segment of our population is being overlooked: people with disabilities. it’s time new york state extends its support to include businesses owned by people with disabilities. entrepreneurship can be a lifeline for those with differing abilities. it can be lifechanging — not just for business owners, but also for their employees, families and communities. My son, John cronin, is a prime example.

When John entered his final year at Huntington High School, he was excited about joining the workforce. yet he quickly found that traditional paths weren’t available to him. John has Down syndrome, and like many people with disabilities, he faced an unacceptable reality: Only one in five adults with a disability is employed.

But John is a natural entrepreneur. if he couldn’t find the right job, he’d create his own. So he came to me with an idea:

He wanted to start a business together. That was the spark that led to John’s crazy Socks, a social enterprise that has since grown into a seven-figure business and the world’s largest sock store. consider the impact John’s entrepreneurism has had. We’ve created 34 jobs, and 22 of them are held by people with differing abilities. Through our Giving Back program, we’ve donated over $800,000 to organizations like Special Olympics new york, the national Down Syndrome Society, and north Shore Animal league America. Over 3,000 students and social service clients have toured our operation, finding inspiration in John’s story. And we’ve seen other entrepreneurs with differing abilities courageously follow his path. John’s story shows that entrepreneurship isn’t just an option; it’s an essential alternative for people with disabilities. When given the opportunity, they contribute, uplift others, and bring positive change to our communities.

differing abilities represent an extraordinary, untapped talent pool, ready to work and contribute.

To unlock this potential, new york state can take five specific steps:

a disability hasn’t kept my son, Mark, from leading the world’s largest sock store.

1. certification for disability-owned businesses. The state already certifies businesses owned by women and veterans, which gives these businesses crucial visibility and access to state resources. establishing a similar certification for disability-owned businesses would send a powerful message and create essential opportunities for these businesses.

2. Set-asides for disabilityowned businesses, new york has created procurement set-asides in state contracts for women-owned and veteran-owned businesses. extending this to include disability-owned businesses would ensure they have a fair chance to secure state contracts and grow.

people with disabilities? By including them, we could unlock even greater economic potential.

4. Technical support for startups. The state offers technical support through various programs, and coordinating these resources for disability-owned startups would level the playing field for entrepreneurs like John.

5. Startup grants. new york provides millions in grants to encourage new businesses. Some of these funds should be earmarked specifically for startups owned by people with disabilities.

People with differing abilities are a vast, often overlooked resource. They are ready, able and willing to contribute to our economy, bringing diverse perspectives, talents and innovations. yet structural barriers have kept many from reaching their full potential.

By supporting entrepreneurship for people with differing abilities, new york has an opportunity to address one of the highest unemployment rates among any group. it’s not just good policy; it’s good business. A 2018 Accenture report found that companies leading in disability inclusion perform 28 percent better financially than their peers. People with

Letters

their game is rant, not repair. Realize there is now an economic sector of agitprop “influencers” whose income stream derives from clicks, experienced in the provocation of internet duels, ad hominem insult and scaremongering. To respond is to feed the opposition.

One example of the opposition’s subtle damage is the new version of “Snow White,” with multi-racial dwarves. The ever-ready right-wing trolls howled over this blasphemy. One of them, Benny Johnson, declared that it signified “a nation in decline.” Johnson gets clicks, and hopes that his “owning the libs” provokes many more.

Don’t fall for it. Rather, discover and share more sober, solution- oriented sources of information, for that is the only “torch” available. Help carry it by supporting organizations that seek the path of unity, provide the bandages and shun divisive rhetoric. A place to start: Make sure that all Americans can continue to share the simple childhood fantasy of “Snow White” and its dwarves, without the trolls.

Voting is easy in New York, but elsewhere?

To the editor:

i thought i lived in a democracy, where every voice is heard. When voting in new york state, no iD is required when you show up at the polls. if for some reason you are asked for proof of residency — maybe you registered to vote and left out the number on your driver’s license — all you need to do is come back with a gas or electric bill with your name and address. Quite a few states, however, require a photo iD when you vote. The most common way to comply would be with your driver’s license. Unfortunately, people with limited incomes may not have a car or be able to afford another form of photo iD. you also may need proof of your birth date with a birth certificate. if you’ve lost or misplaced yours, you need to pay for a legal copy.

All of these hurdles can be used to suppress voting in regions where the governing party would rather not have you vote. We should all be able to fulfill our democratic responsibility, and not have to jump through hoops to do it.

3. expand nySiD programs to include for-profits. new york State industries for the Disabled generates millions of dollars in wages for people with disabilities through nonprofit partners. But this outdated restriction excludes forprofit businesses, perpetuating the false impression that only nonprofits will employ people with disabilities. Why exclude for-profit businesses owned by

John’s crazy Socks has proven that when people with disabilities start businesses, they don’t just create jobs — they inspire others, spark change and strengthen their communities. new york state has both the resources and the responsibility to foster this kind of inclusive growth. let’s build an economy that works for everyone. By embracing entrepreneurship for people with differing abilities, our state can show the nation what’s possible when opportunity is available to all.

Mark X. Cronin is a co-founder and president of John’s Crazy Socks, in Farmingdale.

Framework by Tim Baker

LuminoCity’s Holiday Lights Festival in Eisenhower Park — East Meadow
mark X. Cronin

Mothers looking for a hospital at which to give birth should consider the quality indicators used by U.S. News & World Report ® to determine institutions deemed High Performing for Maternity care.

Mount Sinai South Nassau is the only South Shore hospital to earn the rating of High Performing based on eight key measures:

• Reduced C-section delivery rates

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• Routine birthing-friendly practices

• Transparency on racial/ethnic disparities

If you want the best birthing experience for you and for your baby, look no further than Mount Sinai South Nassau.

Learn more at southnassau.org/maternity, or call 877-SOUTH-NASSAU.

Let’s get acquainted (vamos a familiarizarnos)

Herald Community Newspapers is excited to bring over 90 years of community newspaper excellence to you every week.

Herald Community Newspapers se complace en traerle más de 90 años de excelencia en periódicos comunitarios cada semana.

You’re gonna love us (nos vas a amar)

You’ll find dozens of original stories and photos about your friends and neighbors. So, if it happens in Uniondale we are sure to be there!.

Encontrarás docenas de historias y fotos originales sobre tus amigos y vecinos. Entonces, si sucede en Uniondale, ¡estamos seguros de estar allí!

Best of all it’s free… (Lo mejor de todo, es gratis…)

We would like to send you a FREE subscription to the all-new, Uniondale Herald Beacon*. No strings attached, there is no catch.

Nos gustaría enviarle una suscripción GRATUITA al nuevo Uniondale Herald Beacon*. Sin ataduras, no hay trampa.

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