Courtesy Town of Hempstead
Chris Schneider, right, a 44-year-old from Seaford, was sworn in as a Hempstead town councilman on Aug. 6, succeeding Chris Carini, who died last month. Former State Sen. Charles Fuschillo, left, swore Schneider in with his family by his side.
By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Chris Schneider, a Seaford resident who dedicates much of his time to giving back to the community, is a newly appointed Hempstead town councilman.
Schneider, a Republican, was appointed to the seat at an Aug. 6 Town Board meeting. He was approved unanimously with a vote of 6-0, and was sworn in to represent the 5th Councilmanic District, which encompasses Lido Beach, Point Lookout and parts of Bellmore, Merrick, Wantagh, Seaford and Freeport.
The appointment comes after Councilman Chris Carini died unexpectedly on July 14, at age 49, while visiting family in Florida. Carini was serving his second term after winning re-election last November. There will be a special election in November for a full
term beginning next year.
“I am proud to welcome Chris Schneider as the newest member of the town board,” Supervisor Don Clavin stated in a news release. “Although the Town of Hempstead suffered a great loss with the passing of Councilman Chris Carini, the town board and I truly believe that Chris Schneider is the perfect person to carry on Carini’s legacy.”
Schneider, 44, has been active in the Wantagh and Seaford communities for over two decades. He has represented Seaford on the Nassau County Police Commissioner’s Community Council since 2022, and has served on the 5th District Graffiti Watch Task Force.
Carini, a Seaford resident, had long been involved with the Wantagh/Seaford Homeowners Association, which often focused on
By JoRDAN VAlloNE jvallone@liherald.com
This November, voters in New York will have the opportunity to vote on an amendment to the state’s Constitution, aimed at ensuring equal rights to all under law.
The current Equal Protection Clause in the state’s constitution already prohibits discrimination based on “race, color, creed or religion.” The amendment would allow New York voters to include additional classifications that people cannot be discriminated against, such as ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
The decision to include the amendment on this year’s ballot came in mid-June. State Attorney General Letitia James said it was “a huge victory in our efforts to protect our basics rights and freedoms.”
Advocacy groups at both the state and local levels are beginning to spread the word about what the amendment entails. The League of Women Voters of Central Nassau recently held an Appetizer & Postcard Party aimed at educating neighbors on what the ERA is.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights. It defends democracy through advocacy, education and litigation at various levels of government, and there are several chapters on Long Island.
Susan Cushman, the advocacy chair for the Central Nassau division, said the idea was to bring people together at the Appetizer & Postcard Party, so the community and members of the league could learn about the amendment, and if they support it, write postcards that were mailed to addresses provided by New Yorkers for Equal Rights, a coalition that supports the amendment.
At the event, which took place at the Baldwin Diner last month, attendees wrote on their postcards, “On Nov. 5,
“The ERA was advanced to protect access to abortion care, enshrine this basic right in our Constitution, and protect people from discrimination,” James said. “We will continue to do everything in our power to protect these rights and ensure everyone can live safely and freely in the great state of New York.”
Continued on pAge 4
libraries.
State Senator Steve Rhoads recently achieved a milestone in his mission to take an active role in promoting literacy and education on Long Island by collecting 5,582 books during a week-long book drive across various libraries in his Senate District.
This initiative was executed in collaboration with Book Fairies, an organization committed to redistributing books to under-resourced communities. Recognizing the importance of access to reading materials, Rhoads said he
aimed to not only enhance childhood education but also foster a lifelong love of learning among children, particularly those who may not have the means to obtain books on their own.
The success of this book drive was made possible through the contributions of local residents, as well as the participation of several community libraries, including the Farmingdale Public Library, Hicksville Public Library, Island Trees Public Library, Levittown Public Library, and Seaford Public Library. Each location served as a hub for donations, collecting a diverse array of titles, from charming baby books to engaging chapter books.
In the coming weeks, Book Fairies will distribute these collected materials to families and children in need. Senator Rhoads expressed gratitude to everyone involved, saying that such collaborative endeavors not only provide resources and support for those who may be struggling, but also cultivates a culture of kindness and generosity that resonates throughout the community.
On July 31, more than a hundred Nassau BOCES Barry Tech students were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society this year. These students have earned exclusive membership in the distinguished academic institution through superior scholastic achievement, dedicated community service, and the enthusiastic endorsement of their teachers. Being a member of the NTHS helps students find success in encouraging responsibility and motivation, according to BOCES.
The list of students who joined the NTHS included James Schaefer from Seaford. Schaefer attends Seaford Union Free School District, he plans to study Horse Science and Management Skills.
Students from Levittown School District include Yolaismi Cruz-Agramonte, Kelsi-Ann Gilroy and Alyssa Wunsch, who are studying Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration; Michayla Scully and Alex Vigliarolo, who are studying Fashion Design Technology and Merchandising; Omar Reyes, who is studying Construction Electricity; Sofia Rodriguez, who is a Medical Assisting student; Haylee Scalza, who is a Physical Therapy Aide and Rehab Medicine student; Emily Veith, who is a Retail and Business Skills student; Courtney Clements, who is studying Veterinary Science; an Emily Wallis, who is a Welding student.
Dozens of music lovers gathered at the Wantagh Public Library on Aug. 5 for a lively performance by Penny Lane, a Beatles tribute band.
The concert, held in the library’s parking lot, was part of the Music Monday Summer Concerts series. The next event in the series will feature VOR: Victims of Rock on August 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Admission is free, and no registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating.
For more information about the concert series, visit wantaghlibrary.org.
–Charles Shaw
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the League of Women Voters has been spreading word about the equal rights amendment that will appear on the november ballot in new York. attendees at a meeting last month wrote out postcards, which were sent to addresses provided by new Yorkers for equal rights, a coalition that supports the amendment.
don’t forget to ‘flip the ballot’ and vote on the new NY ERA for all New Yorkers.”
The event was successful, and 500 postcards were written.
Cushman, a professor at Nassau Community College, where she teaches English and women’s and gender studies, said the amendment is not an abortion-access measure.
“Protecting Your Future” has been Ettinger Law Firm’s slogan since we began in 1991. These words have deep meaning to us and our clients. Following are the eight ways an Ettinger Elder Law Estate Plan protects your future:
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“Pregnancy outcomes suggests that if women have unexpected issues or problems with their pregnancy, they’re not going to be criminalized for it,” she said. “They have access to services that include protecting their future fertility. That’s really important for people to understand.”
Cushman said she believes people are supportive of the amendment, once they learn what it entails. But, she added, that’s the problem: Not many people know about it. Several new people joined the league at its last meeting, Cushman said, and it served an important educational purpose for other attendees.
“I do think people are receptive to it,” she said of the amendment, “and I agree that people generally don’t know a lot
about it. They think we already have a New York ERA, and that’s enough.
“We want to take action, we want to spread the word — and that’s why we thought the postcard party would be such a great idea,” she added. “We could put it on our website, or we could email people, but it doesn’t bring a community together.”
On November’s ballot, the amendment will be the first proposal, labeled Prop 1. The current ERA, Cushman said, doesn’t cover everything the new one would.
“That’s why, when I try to explain it to people, it’s a pro-health care measure,” she said. “It’s not just about women in pregnancy outcomes — it also protects your discrimination in these other areas, like age, ability, LGBT issues. It’s the 21st century. It’s time to have a stronger New York Equal Rights Amendment.”
For voters interested in learning more about the amendment, the League of Women Voters of East Nassau will meet on Aug. 21, at 7 p.m., at the Levittown Public Library, at at 1 Bluegrass Lane in Levittown. For more about the league, and to find local chapters, visit LWV.org.
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Meet Guy. He’s a local small business owner, rock bassist, and fan of LEDs. It didn’t hurt that he got $5,900 in rebates to replace his store’s old lighting with energy-efficient fixtures.* He says his store and his guitars look great in the new LED glow. And, with the monthly energy cost savings, he couldn’t be happier.
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By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Are you ready for some football?
Next Monday, all 53 Nassau County public high school football programs can begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 6 with six games leading up to the first full slate the following week.
Aside from eight-time defending Nassau Conference II champion Garden City moving to Conference III, perhaps the biggest news during the offseason was the decision to add an 11 a.m. kickoff slot to Conferences II and IV for the 2024 campaign, and potentially Conferences I and III next year, due to a shortage of officials.
“At this time we don’t have enough officiating crews to cover so many games at the same time,” said Section VIII football coordinator Matt McLees. “We’re at about 16-17 crews. Moving some games to 11 a.m. and others to 3 p.m. allows us to double up certain crews on Saturdays.”
One team largely affected by the earlier start time is Sewanhaka. Not only is head coach George Kasimatis’ squad debuting the school’s new nickname, the Ravens, half of its games will begin in the morning. Fortunately, Kasimatis noted, three of the four 11 a.m. kickoffs are at home. “We travel to Roosevelt in Week 2 and it’ll be interesting,” he said.
Massapequa (Conference I), Garden City (II), South Side (III) and Seaford (IV) won county titles last season, however the landscape has changed with Trojans moving to Conference III. Carey, the new top seed in II, seeks its first county title since going back-to-back in 2013-14 and opens at home versus Glen Cove Sept. 14.
Garden City’s first taste of Conference III football is Sept. 6 at Bethpage. Seaford, which must fend off conference newcomers Wantagh and Plainedge, opens at home Sept. 13 against Island Trees.
Massapequa, which last season was awarded the Rutgers Cup, presented annually to the most outstanding team in Nassau, opens at Oceanside Sept. 6 in game originally scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 10.
Teams choosing to play a full game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, McLees said, making Aug. 30 the first potential date. Teams can hold joint practices as soon as Aug. 24 and are permitted to play 7 on 7 and also run 10 plays (11 on 11) in full gear. “It’s not a scrimmage by definition but teams can accomplish a lot with the joint practice,” he added.
Nine teams switch conferences
Along with Garden City, eight other teams have switched conferences for the
Sept. 6: Massapequa at Oceanside
Sept. 14: Sewanhaka at Baldwin
Sept 20: Elmont at South Side
Sept. 21: Massapequa at Uniondale
Sept. 28: Calhoun at Mepham
Oct. 5: Oceanside at Freeport
Oct. 10: MacArthur at Carey
Oct. 10: Plainedge at Wantagh
Oct. 10: South Side at Garden City
Oct. 25: Wantagh at Seaford
upcoming season based on enrollment figures: Baldwin, Elmont, Manhasset, Herricks, Wantagh, Plainedge, Roosevelt and Glen Cove. Baldwin returns to Conference II where it spent the 2022 campaign and is seeded No. 10 this season. The Bruins, under new head coach Mike Robinson, open at home on their new turf field Sept. 14 against Sewanhaka. Elmont is the No. 3 seed in Conference III, whilst Manhasset is No. 7. Herricks is seeded eighth in Conference I. Longtime Conference III powers Wantagh and Plainedge are in Conference IV and will meet face to face Oct. 10 at Wantagh. Roosevelt, not long ago a member of IV, bounced to II and opens at New Hyde Park.
The sixth week of the season (fifth for many Conference III teams) will be played on Thursday, Oct. 10 due to Yom Kippur. Games will kick off as early as 2:15 p.m. (Elmont at Sewanhaka) and as late as 6 p.m.
Local coaching changes
Baldwin, East Meadow, Freeport, Mepham, Seaford all boast new sideline bosses.
Robinson is a Baldwin graduate who spent the past two seasons coaching the Bruins’ JV team after six years as a varsity assistant. Keith Lizzi takes over from Vin Mascia at East Meadow, the No. 6 seed in Conference I. Longtime Freeport assistant Jimmy Jones succeeds the legendary Russ Cellan at Freeport. The seventh-ranked Red Devils open at Massapequa. Tom Mazeika is the new head coach at Mepham, the No. 5 seed in Conference II, opens at home versus MacArthur. Seaford and new head coach Mike McHugh kick off defense of the Conference IV title at home against Island Trees.
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.
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By Melissa Berman
With the theme “(WE) are UNSTOPPABLE” running through the day, RichnerLIVE’s second annual Women’s Summit, at the Crescent Beach Club in Bayville, brought together thought leaders, innovators and barrier-breaking women for conversations.
Nearly 300 people attended to hear 27 speakers on various topics — women’s leadership, impact and inclusion, financial fitness, social media — as well as a number of panels. There were 24 vendor booths and multiple raffle prizes at the Aug. 6 event.
Amy Amato, executive director of RichnerLIVE, opened the keynote lunch session with a message that set the tone for the speakers.
“When we envisioned this year’s summit, we were inspired by the resilience, determination and unwavering spirit that women across Long Island exhibit every single day,” Amato said. “Whether in the boardroom, classroom, homes or communities, women are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, and proving time and time again that nothing can hold us back.”
The summit featured wellness activities in the morning before the sessions began — beach yoga, breathwork and reiki, color analysis and meditation.
Four-time Emmy award-winning reporter and anchor Antoinette Biordi, of News12, hosted the keynote lunch panel session.
“I really believe that conversations about women’s empowerment, leadership and mentorship deserve to be heard,” Biordi said. “Everyone here can do something to lift each other up, and for the next generation as well.”
Keynote speaker Carrie Kerpen, founder of the Whisper Group, an exit readiness advisory practice for womenowned businesses, discussed why speaking at the summit was important for her and women in business.
“I think that the pressure that we are under as women in the workplace is causing us to lose touch with what we really want, and we are losing the ability to hear our own intuition and connect with our own intuition,” Kerpen said.
The one area, according to Kerpen, in which women need to improve is getting the appropriate value for their business when it is sold or they leave.
“My hope is to help women business owners take their lifestyle businesses and turn them into life-changing assets to build generational wealth,” she said.
Another keynote speaker, Lindsay Kaplan, co-founder of CHIEF, described how failure is a part of one’s success path.
“We have a tendency as humans to blame failure on ourselves just as much as we often attribute success to ourselves, and timing, luck, and being in the right place at the right time,” Kaplan said. “We are constantly looking at those around us, and it creates this inferiority. We need to focus on our own growth and define happiness for our own terms.”
Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Com-
munications, said he was impressed by the turnout, and the participants’ dedication to enhancing their business skills.
“Seeing nearly 300 accomplished, dynamic, professional women here is truly inspiring,” Richner said. “Your presence at this RichnerLIVE event demonstrates your commitment to empowering one another and making a positive impact on society.”
The event supported the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation with a portion of the net proceeds, furthering the Heralds’ and RichnerLIVE’s commitment to women’s empowerment. The principal sponsors of the event were T-Mobile for Business, AT&T, Cona Law, the Stefan’s Group, National Grid Ventures, and Nassau University Medical Center. Please visit www. richnerlive.com/2024-wesummit/to view all sponsors and photos.
quality-of-life issues. Schneider has served on the board of the association for 20 years, and was the Seaford vice president before stepping down to focus on his duties as councilman.
“I will miss him terribly, but I know he’s going to be doing great things for Wantagh and Seaford, just like the late Chris Carini had done,” Ella Stevens, president of the homeowners association, said.
Schneider, a graduate of Wantagh High School, is a lifelong resident of the area. His grandfather was a member of the Seaford Fire Department for over 40 years, and his mother taught in Seaford for three decades. Chris, too, lives in Seaford with his wife and two children, in a house he bought from his grandparents.
“Giving back is something that’s really important to my family,” he told the Herald. “That’s something I was raised on at an early age.”
Schneider’s upbringing in a public service family, and being involved in the community, led him to a role in government after he graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst in 2002, when he started work as a legislative assistant in the Nassau County Legislature. In 2004, he began working in the State Senate, where he served under former Senators Charles Fuschillo, Elaine Philips, and current Senator Jack Martins, until 2017.
After his time in government, Schnieder began work in a senior leadership role for the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
“I think it’s really important that what you do for a living matters,” he said, “and there’s no greater calling than helping people.”
Giving back and helping communities is what Schneider says is exciting about his new opportunity. The
Courtesy Town of Hempstead
new Hempstead town Councilman Chris Schneider, left, joined Supervisor don Clavin and Councilman thomas muscarella for a storm update at the Curtis e f isher West marina in point Lookout on aug. 7. Schneider said his new role as councilman was an exciting opportunity to help the people in his district.
experience is bittersweet, however, because Carini was a close friend for years.
“I miss him terribly, but to carry on the work that he was so passionate about is really special to me,” Schneider said.
He added that he wanted to connect people in his district with services they needed, whether town, county or other partners in government.
Thanks to his work with Fuschillo, Schneider says he’s familiar with issues in Bellmore, Merrick and Freeport, in addition to Wantagh and Seaford. Brian
Devine, the town’s director of communications, said there were plans to set up a mobile town hall throughout the district for Schneider, so he can meet residents and learn more about their concerns.
“Whether someone’s calling about a pothole or a stop sign or whatever,” Schneider said, “that call to them at that moment is extremely important, because they wouldn’t have taken the time to reach out to you if they didn’t need help.”
Kevan Abrahams, a former Nassau County legislator, will oppose Schneider in the special election. Abrahams, 49, a Democrat and a Freeport resident, retired from the Legislature last year, and has since been director of strategic planning for Northwell Health.
Abrahams expressed concerns about the Town of Hempstead’s tax levy, which increased by a little over $2 million, which prompted him to run for office. He also disagreed with fee hikes for essential services.
“These back-door tax increases affect everything from seasonal and daily passes at town pools to parking permits, and sports league fees,” Abrahams stated in news release. “It’s happening on the backs of the taxpayer — the people are carrying the burden for the town’s fiscal mismanagement. It needs to change.”
For his part, Schneider aims to be an accessible councilman who connects people in the community with the help they need.
“I would want people to know that I’m a passionate, active and involved person in the community who has experience in government, has experience in nonprofit, but most of all, I really believe in helping people,” he said. “There’s nothing greater that you can do with your professional life than to make a difference in the life of somebody else. So if they need help, I’m here.”
Additional reporting by Jordan Vallone.
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Following several reported scams, that have led to arrests in Nassau County, including an elder scam in East Meadow on July 31, the county is reminding residents to be vigilant and know the warning signs of potential scams.
According to a news release shared by the Nassau County Police Department and Patrick Ryder, commissioner of police, the county is urging residents, particularly seniors, to remain vigilant as numerous scams continue to circulate in the area.
Just last month, two Bronx men were arrested after attempting to scam a 73-year-old East Meadow resident. The men allegedly called the East Meadow man, and told him his bank account had been compromised. Police were called and the men were arrested without incident. A subsequent investigation revealed that they were responsible for numerous additional scams.
Fraudulent activities by scammers are designed to exploit vulnerable individuals, costing them thousands of unrecoverable dollars.
One of the more prevalent scams is the home improvement scam, where fraudulent contractors approach homeowners with unsolicited offers for home inspections or repairs. In some cases, these individuals even cause damage themselves to justify their services. Residents are advised not to let unknown persons into their homes and to avoid paying for work that wasn’t approved or completed. To protect themselves, they should try to pay by check or credit card to ensure a record of the transaction.
Another scam that has been reported is the flat tire scam. Victims are often targeted shortly after exiting a bank or shopping center. The scam involves a staged
nassau County officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant of scams and the different ways scammers will attempt to steal your assets.
flat tire, where a seemingly helpful person offers assistance. While the victim is distracted, an accomplice enters their vehicle and steals property.
The relative arrested scam is also a common tactic used by scammers. Victims receive a phone call informing them that a relative has been arrested or involved in an accident. The caller demands bail money, often arranging to meet the victim in person or instructing them to pay with gift cards.
In the social security scam, scammers claim that the victim’s Social Security number has been used in
fraudulent activities. They threaten financial loss unless the victim provides their bank account information or sends gift cards.
The IRS scam involves callers impersonating IRS agents, claiming that the victim is in danger of being arrested or fined due to tax discrepancies. Victims are pressured to make immediate payments, often via gift cards, which the IRS would never request.
Other scams include the lottery scam, where victims are falsely notified that they have won a cash prize but must pay a handling fee to claim it, and the computer scam, in which victims receive a message while online stating there is a problem that requires remote access control to fix. The scammer then gains access to personal information and online banking details, stealing funds.
Additionally, the arrest warrant scam sees victims receiving a message from supposed law enforcement officers requesting gift cards to void an arrest warrant, while the PSEG Scam targets residents and small business customers, demanding immediate payment to avoid service disconnection.
The Amazon scam alerts victims to fraudulent activity on their accounts and instructs them to pay off the balance with gift cards.
Illegal scams are costing honest citizens significant amounts of money, the county says. Nassau County officials are urging residents to stay informed and share this information with family members, neighbors, and particularly the elderly, to help prevent further victimization.
Those who believe they’ve been a victim of a scam should call 911 immediately. Residents with information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible are encouraged to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at (800) 244-8477.
Just when it seems like you have gotten into your summer groove, it’s time to get back into your school routine, which can be cause both relief and stress at the same time for parents and students alike. Even if your kids are fairly adaptable, big changes like heading back to school after a summer of limited scheduling can be stressful.
Head off potential problems as you transition into the busy back-to-school season to get everyone back on the schooltime track.
Rather than rushing into school season all at once, try to plan your schedule ahead of time. Easing into school season can make for a much smoother transition.
This means gradually tapering off later bedtimes and enforcing an earlier wake up call. If meal times have gotten lax, it’s also a good idea to start working back toward your school-time schedule.
From weekly meetings to extracurricular activities and weekend sports, try using lists and charts to stay organized. Especially as kids grow older and their activities lists and school deadlines expand, keeping track of everyone can become a real chore.
Find a place in the house where you can post calendars and lists that everyone can see. Try color-coding by child or type of
activity (school, work, sports, etc.) for extra organization.
Many kids struggle in school simply because they can’t manage the paperwork: field trip permission slips didn’t make it out of the book bag, completed homework
doesn’t
make it back into the book bag.
Create one designated place to drop off book bags and gear, collect important school papers for signatures and communicate family announcements and plans. Establish another place for homework that’s always clean, stocked with supplies,
inviting, well-lit and away from TV and other distracting devices. Add comfortable seating at a table or desk. This will also be where you double-check for teacher notes and assignments and repack the book bag. Remember to have them clean up each night!
List Family Goals
Have each person in the family list out his or her goals for this school year. They can be small or challenging, but it can give everyone something to strive for.
It’s also a good way to remind kids about family values like encouraging one another and making time to support everyone’s individual interests.
Don’t wait until the last minute to search for school supplies like notebooks, pencils and paper or the bigger ticket items like backpacks. Seeking out necessary items ahead of time can alleviate the stress of not being able to find what you need, and spreading out purchases over time can eliminate a major one-time hit to the family budget.
Photo: Getting kids ready for a new school year is about more than updating their wardrobe or organizing carpools with fellow parents. Reacclimating everyone in the family to the routine of school after a relaxing summer is a significant undertaking,
School day mornings can be hectic, since as every parent knows getting kids ready for school and out the door on time is not always easy. Working parents may find school day mornings especially difficult, as their own work schedules can make mornings feel even more rushed. This time around, change up your morning routines with strategies to free up time in the morning so everyone starts their days off in a more relaxing atmosphere.
Wake up earlier. Sleep might seem like a precious commodity, but waking up just 10 to 15 minutes earlier can remove some of the stress from weekday mornings without costing you a lot of sack time. Let kids sleep in until their normal wakeup time, using your extra 10 or 15 minutes to shower or enjoy your morning cup of coffee before the house is abuzz with activity.
Tackle certain chores the night before. Delaying certain chores until you wake up makes for a hectic morning, so tackle as many morning chores as possible before you go to bed for the night. Prepare school lunches, lay clothes out for yourself and your children, and make sure kids have their backpacks packed and ready to go before they go to bed. Each of these things may only take a few minutes, but when leftthe
while others dread setting their alarms for early morning hours. Kids who fall into the latter group may drag their feet in the morning, but parents should offer encouragement when kids are moving slowly in the morning. Allowing your frustration to show may only make kids less fond of mornings, so remind them as nicely as possible that everyone has a schedule to stick to if they seem to be dragging their feet. Keep the television off. If watching the
tine, try going a few days without it to see if this makes it easier to get out the door on time. Kids might grow distracted by morning cartoons, and even adults may get caught up in morning news shows. Eliminating television and screen time on other devices from your morning routine can save time and also may help your family grow closer, as you will have more distraction-free time to speak to one another. In addition to turning off the television. Resist that urge to look at your devices,
etc., when getting ready in the morning. Parents know that school day mornings can be hectic. But you can certainly implement changes to your routine to make such mornings go more smoothly so everyone gets where they need to be on time.
Photo: Get out from under the morning chaos by changing up the daily routine for a smoother start to your family’s day.
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By DiAnne Crown
The easy flow of conversation and discovery between parents and their young children invariably seems to stop early in elementary school. Why? Preschoolers and kindergartners find it difficult to remember the details and summarize a day’s experiences.
Older children may want to turn off school and think about something else, be too tired to talk or be upset about something they think will upset you. And youths are not only looking for the boundaries between what’s theirs and what’s yours; they may be even more concerned that you’ll judge, overreact or take over their concern or need. Here’s what we did to get the conversation started — and keep it going.
Build trust when your children are infants. When they cry, pick them up. When they babble, answer them. When they reach for you, reach back with a loving touch. When they want to crawl into bed with you, share special rocking time. Go outside and watch an excavator for a few minutes. Read a favorite story. Or play chase. Say yes. You will build lifelong love and trust with your children.
For those fortunate enough to have it, an opportune talk time is immediately after school at pickup, when the events of the day are freshest. Start as early as preschool or kindergarten. Let your children share during the drive home. You’ll both benefit. You’ll hear news of the day, and your young ones will have regular opportunities to practice sequencing and organizing information into a short report. Active, respectful listening will develop your children’s willingness to share and include details.
For an easier time learning about the social aspect of your children’s day at school, get to know their friends through play dates. Then you can ask about specific friends and situations. “Did you and Lucy play together at recess today?” could branch into their successes or problems on the playground that day, any new students in class and so on. Pay attention to teacher websites, homework, backpack items, sporting events and
what other parents are talking about at school. And build on prior days’ conversations, perhaps asking, “What’s new with your group mythology project?” Starting with specific known topics is more productive than the open-ended “How was your day?”
In Getting Ready For School
Make lunch together, and talk about the day ahead. Keep a communication board on the refrigerator or by the back door, and run through the checklist of homework, permission slips, gym clothes and game schedules together. This will build your children’s sense of routine and readiness and provide good topics for table talk later.
Play Together
Do what your children like, whether it’s a favorite video game, ball toss, board game or funny YouTube video. Fun experiences build memories, keep you connected, open the door for conversations on other topics and often become perennial favorites as your children grow up.
Give Your Full Attention
Listening and being present are impor tant elements of communication. In an arti cle by Claire Gagne on the Today’s Parent website, therapist and author Jennifer Kolari says: “When you’re really connected, your body is leaning in and your phone is down. You’ll find that if you do a really good job in those moments, they will come to you for the hard stuff.” If you ignore or brush off your children when they’re rattling on about the latest video game or a guest speaker who came into the classroom that day, Kolari says, you’re losing an opportunity to show you are a good listener.
Utilize Car Rides
Occasionally, talking side by side behind the windshield can be easier for teens than talking eye to eye. Listen to music; share stories of the day; and talk about any topics of interest or concern. Make sure these are twoway conversations, not one-way interrogations, says Gagne. This way, you’ll get much more value out of your daily commute.
Breakfast has long been referred to as the most important meal of the day. It’s especially important for kids to start the day off with some nourishment in their bellies before heading off to school. There’s ample evidence to show that the simple act of eating breakfast every day is a big part of maintaining a healthy weight and gives you brain power.
Studies have found that children who eat a healthy breakfast have higher energy levels and better learning abilities than similar students who do not eat breakfast. Harvard University researchers found that those who eat breakfast are significantly more attentive in the classroom and have fewer behavioral and emotional problems.
Of course, many of us find that time is not in abundance in the morning when we are getting ready for school or work. As a result, we grab a couple of bites or gulp down some coffee or maybe some hot cocoa for the kids before heading out or skip breakfast altogether.
Eating a nutritious breakfast is a great way for children to be on target to meet their daily needs for key nutrients, like calcium the all-important bone-building mineral. Children who don’t eat breakfast also are less likely to get all of the essential nutrients they need each day to thrive.
cereal [cereal]box: to find
their favorite way to start the day. Try these ideas to boost school success.
Yogurt packs a punch: Individually packaged yogurts make a healthy and quick meal for anyone in the family. A good source of protein and calcium, yogurt is also filled with helpful bacteria that promote digestive health. And try creating parfaits with layers of vanilla yogurt, fruit and granola. Focus on fruit: Keep a container of fresh fruit salad in the refrigerator. A bowl of mixed fruit is refreshing and healthy.
Satisfying smoothies: Smoothies made from fruit and yogurt are fast and can be stored in portable cups to take in the car on the way to school.
Excellent eggs: Whip up a fast egg sandwich. Saute egg whites in a frying pan and place between two slices of toasted whole wheat bread.
Muffin mania: Make a batch of low-fat, high-fiber muffins over the weekend. Grabbing a muffin and a is an easy breakfast.
Beyond the bread: Use a sandwich or
panini maker to create homemade breakfast tarts. Fill bread or pitas with fresh fruit or peanut butter and use the cooker to seal them shut.
Think grab-and-go
When time is of the essence and the morning seems to be overwhelming, it’s tempting to forgo breakfast despite our best intentions. Therapeutic dietitian Lena Beal, M.S., RD, LD, shares some of her favorite grab-and-go breakfast ideas:
√ Blend one cup of almond milk, half of banana, and bag of frozen blueberries or strawberries for a delicious smoothie.
√ Spread two brown rice cakes with natural peanut butter and add a side of Greek yogurt.
√ Scramble two eggs with low-fat mozzarella cheese. Add baby spinach and salsa and serve on two whole-wheat tortillas.
√ Grab a cup of plain low-fat yogurt and top with fresh raspberries and crunchy wholegrain cereal or granola.
√ Make a bowl of plain oatmeal and add cinnamon, walnut halves and raisins.
√ Spread low-fat cream cheese on a wholegrain toasted bagel. Top with sliced strawberries.
√ Add lean ham and low-fat Swiss cheese to a toasted whole-grain English muffin.
√ If your taste buds just don’t crave breakfast foods, try a peanut butter and banana sandwich on whole-grain bread or even leftover rice mixed with low-fat yogurt, dried fruit and nuts, and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Photo: Start the day right and boost school success with breakfast that packs a punch.
More than just a
By Danielle Schwab
Old Westbury Gardens lush grounds fill once again with those unmistakable bagpipe sounds and spectacle during a revamped edition of its annual summer festival. This year the popular event’s scope has expanded to celebrate the vibrant traditions of Long Island’s thriving Celtic communities.
Besides those pipers, traditional competitions and highland dancing — along with plenty of entertainment and assorted activities for lads and lasses — there’s much end of summer revelry to enjoy. Everyone will be fully occupied all day, next Saturday, Aug. 24.
This year Old Westbury Gardens staff is hosting solo (without participation from longtime co-hosts Long Island Clan MacDuff). The result is an energized refresh.
“Rather than focusing just on the culture of Scotland, we [wanted to] expand it a little bit so that we could avail ourselves of all of the great Irish bands and step dancers and all of these those things that span both the Scottish and the Irish cultures,” says Maura Brush, Old Westbury Gardens CEO and director.
Pipe and drum bands will fill the air with stirring music transporting attendees to those rolling hills of Ireland and Scotland. An extensive diverse lineup of musical and Irish dance entertainment complements these bands that participate yearly.
Headlining the festival this year, Derek Warfield and The Young Wolfe Tones bring the classic tradition of Irish balladry into a new age. Lead singer, the famed songwriter-storyteller Derek Warfield, is a legend of the Irish music scene who enjoyed phenomenal success for some 40 years with the Wolfe Tones. He’s now gathered some of the finest Irish musicians and singers together to reinvigorate beloved Irish tunes. They bring their musical tradition forward with a reverence for Ireland’s past and the energy and optimism of a new generation.
“Their sound is what so many people probably expect to hear when they come to Old Westbury Gardens,” Brush says.
• Saturday, Aug. 24, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• $25, $22 seniors, $12 children, $12 members; advance purchase required
• 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury
• Tickets and information available at OldWestburyGardens.org or (516) 333-0048
Harper’s Ferry, a popular local Irish-American folk band also participates, with their appealing mix of traditional and modern Irish tunes combined with Americana and classic rock.
“Our band members are all native Long Islanders with a deep appreciation for local historical sites, especially Old Westbury Gardens,” says s Harper’s Ferry frontman Martin Kearn. “We see each performance as a blessing to spread our passion for Irish and Scottish heritage with the community.”
Other performers include bagpiper-percussionist Jessie Ofgang and soloist Charlie Zahm, who entices audiences with his instrumental prowess and rich baritone. Both have their own unique twist on bringing Celtic culture to melody.
“Their instruments are meant to be played outside in the green fields and we just have the perfect place,” Brush enthuses.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Celtic festival without some rhythmic Irish step dancing. The skilled dancers from four distinguished Irish dance academies will impress with their incredible footwork.
As is tradition, what are known as the Highland Games remain one of the festival’s main elements.The games continue to test athletes’ strength in heavyweight contests that date back
That pitchfork requires some coordination to successfully loft the 20 lb. burlap bag stuffed with straw over
pipers and drummers prepare to
centuries, especially the caber toss.
The caber is a long, tapered pine pole or log. The “tosser” balances it vertically by holding the smaller end and then runs forward and tosses it so that it turns in the air with the larger end striking the ground first. Ideally, the pole strikes in a strictly vertical position, and the athletes are scored based on how closely the throw lands at a 12 o’clock position.
Think of it as throwing a telephone pole according to Brush. “It’s a giant log that gets thrown, and then the distance is measured, and whoever throws the throws it the furthest is the winner,” she says.
For the experienced competitor, these logs can be heavier than 125 pounds and longer than 20 feet long.
Tossing the Sheaf and Putting the Stone also attract attention. Tossing the Sheaf involves flinging a bale of hay over a horizontal pole with a large pitchfork. Putting The Stone, is similar to the traditional Olympicstyle shot put, but uses a large stone.
Want to get in on the competition? Visitors are encouraged to go for it.
“There are professionals that will be coming but there are opportunities for amateurs to sign up and participate as well,” Brush adds.
After all that exertion, folks are bound to work up an appetite. Take a moment and check out the food offerings, including fish and chips and Scottish shortbread.
It’s always a fun-filled family day with other unique experiences, including a Birds of Prey exhibition, British automobile showcase, and even curling hosted by the Long Island Curling Club. Kids will enjoy plenty of activities, including a version of the caber toss with lightweight “cabers” and an old-fashioned tug of war.
All involved are eager to welcome both older and newer generations, to preserve the fetival’s rich history.
“We’re not just relying on those who have always come, but also want people who are checking it out for the first time. This can become a new tradition for them,” Brush says.
The 1970s and ‘80s come alive when Double Vision brings their “Foreigner Experience” to the Paramount stage. Whether you’re a lifelong Foreigner enthusiast or a newcomer eager to experience the magic, Double Vision promises a night of electrifying entertainment. The spirit of rock ‘n’ roll lives on, one unforgettable performance at a time, with this group of talented musicians and die-hard Foreigner fans. Double Vision has perfected the art of bringing to life the unforgettable hits that have defined generations. From “I Want to Know What Love Is” to “Cold as Ice,” their renditions are a harmonious blend of passion, precision, and nostalgic energy. Drawing inspiration from Foreigner’s unmistakable sound and stage presence, Double Vision delivers a performance that pays homage to the band’s legacy while infusing their own charisma and enthusiasm.
Saturday, Aug. 17, 8 p.m. $60, $40, $25, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Enjoy an evening of foot-stomping fun with the music of the Zac Brown Tribute Band. Get ready to sing along to all your favorite Zac Brown Band hits, from “Chicken Fried” to “Toes” and everything in between. Founded in 2012, ZBTB is the premier tribute to the chart-topping Zac Brown Band. With 13 numberone singles and three Grammy wins, the Zac Brown Band is one of the hottest names in the music business; ZBTB is the first and most authentic tribute to their recorded music and live show. Not only does ZBTB capture the sound and creativity of ZBB, but they bring a similar atmosphere of family to their shows while engaging the audience in a way that is all their own. With classics like “Enter Sandman” and “Ants Marching”, as well as, modern hits like “There’s Nothing Holding Me Back” and “Little Lion Man” in the set, there’s something for everyone at a ZBTB show
Friday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Free admission. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
Disco fever
Boogie along with Disco Unlimited, Saturday, Aug. 24, 7-9 p.m., at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park. When Disco Unlimited hits the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will — when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins.
Capturing a time in music that to this day has not been matched, the exhilarating band will draw you in with their powerful vocals, tight harmonies and dance grooves all coupled with a synchronized stage and light show that creates an unforgettable concert experience — the best of disco nights. Close your eyes and you will truly believe you are listening to the original artists. Hear the best of Tavares, France Jolie, The Trammps, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Yvonne Elliman, Anita Ward, Deney Terrio, George McCrae, Bonnie Pointer, Melba Moore, Maxine Nightingale, Carol Douglas, and so much more. Joe Cool, Sista Soul, Funky Sista, Strat Cat, Wild Jerry and The MacDaddy comprise this group of unique and experienced musicians who love and live this era of music. As always, bring seating. For information, visit NassauCcountyNY.gov/parks.
Theatre Playground returns to Long Island Children’s Museum with “Dramatic Play!,” Monday Aug. 19, 1 p.m., taught by Lisa Rudin, Director of Theatre Playground. In this interactive, theater-inspired workshop, children will act out an original story and help choose how it unfolds. Music, props, and sound effects create a theatrical world where participants are immersed. Kids express themselves as they create characters, stretch their imaginations and build selfconfidence.. Costumes encouraged. $5 with museum admission. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.
The League of Women Voters of East Nassau invites all to its next general meeting, Wednesday, Aug. 21, 7 p.m., at Levittown Public Library. Join the league as an opportunity to learn about the organization and its mission. Learn about the Equal Rights Amendment and how to ensure that it will be passed. Refreshments will be served. 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown. For more information, visit LWVEastNassau.org.
‘Sunday Science’ Workshop
It’s a bug’s life at the Center for Science Teaching & Learning, Sunday, Aug. 18, 10-11:30 a.m. Kids are of all ages are invited to explore bugs at Tanglewood Preserve during the hands-on dropoff program. Kids will meet exotic invertebrates from around the world and find out what makes each one special, then search the preserve’s grounds to see what bugs live in our backyard. Registration required. 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre. Register at ctsl.org or call (516) 764-0045.
Kiwanis Club of Wantagh hosts a food drive at King Kullen, Saturday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Non-perishable foods and baby essentials are all needed. A list will be given out before entering the store to residents that are interested in participating. Cash donations are welcome. The food drive benefits St. Francis Food Pantry and St. Jude Episcopal Food Pantry in Wantagh. 1340 Wantagh Ave.
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Seasonal Sprouts session, Wednesday, Aug. 21, 11 a.m.-noon. Children (ages 4 to 6) can tour the gardens with guided activities exploring smells, sight, sound, and touch, even taste in planting a tasty veggie. $8 per child, $15 adult. Registration required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.
Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum, Thursday, Sept. 5, 1 p.m. She’ll discuss the current exhibition, “Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the in-depth program and also participate in a guided exhibition tour following the lecture. No registration required, but limited seating. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Get in on the action with I. FLY Trapeze, Long Island’s only flying trapeze and circus arts school. Families will enjoy “Wild West Circus,” Saturday, Aug. 17, at 8 p.m., at Eisenhower Park. I.FLY Trapeze puts spectators up close to the aerialists who perform amazing feats of athleticism and agility 25 feet in the air. Performances include Chains, Silk and Lyra, with comedy and on the grounds acts with Balancing and Baton, also a Flying Trapeze Finale. Next to the Nassau County Aquatic Center off Merrick Ave., East Meadow. Free parking available in lot 1A adjacent to the trapeze. For more information, visit IFlyTrapeze.com.
Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah
Temple B’nai Torah hosts a fun-filled bingo session, every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-1p.m., and every Thursday, 7:15 -10 p.m. Prizes, progressive games and refreshments available. 2900 Jerusalem Ave., in Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 2212370.
Having an event?
Shabbat on the Beach
To welcome in Shabbat, members of the Congregation Beth Tikvah Band will perform at Friday night singalongs. All are welcome to join Congregation Beth Tikvah for the season’s final musical Shabbat experience, Aug. 23, 6-6:45 p.m., at Jones Beach Field 6. These free services follow traditional Jewish Shabbat rituals and are open to anyone who calls Long Island their home.
Park on the west side of the comfort station and meet members of Congregation Beth Tikvah on the boardwalk. Bring seating. There is no parking fee after 4 p.m. 1 Ocean Pkwy., in Wantagh. For more information, call the office at (516) 785-2445.
Game time
Enjoy Mah Jongg and Canasta, every Thursday, noon to 4 p.m., at Congregation Beth Tikvah, $5 contribution, no outside food, as snacks and drinks will be supplied. Bring your games and cards, lessons available. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh. For more information, email mahjonggCBT@yahoo.com or call (516) 785-2445.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media. It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Enjoy a film outdoors on Eisenhower Park’s big screen, Wednesday, Aug. 21, dusk, at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. See last year’s summer sensation “Barbie.” Starring Margot Robbie as the title character and Ryan Gosling as Ken, the film follows them on a journey of selfdiscovery through Barbieland and the real world following an existential crisis. It is also a commentary regarding patriarchy and the effects of feminism. Eisenhower Park, Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
Seaford Public Library continues its outdoor concert series, Saturday, Aug. 17, at 7:30 p.m., with The Dance Mechanics, in the library parking lot.Enjoy the high-octane dance, funk, R&B band. No registration is required for this free event at the library parking lot, located at 2234 Jackson Ave. in Seaford. Bring a chair and enjoy the music. For more
Baker/Herald file
The Chabad Hebrew School is accepting enrollments for the upcoming school year. The year will kick off with an event for Rosh Hashana. Above, students at last year’s event.
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
The Chabad Hebrew School of Merrick, Bellmore and Wantagh is now accepting enrollments for the 2024-25 academic year. The school offers an innovative and interactive program that brings Jewish heritage to life, providing a dynamic, hands-on learning experience for children from Pre-K through 7th grade. Classes are available on Sunday mornings from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., or Wednesday afternoons from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“Chabad Hebrew School is where Judaism comes alive for our students,” Educational Directors Rabbi Shimon and Chanie Kramer said. “The curriculum is crafted to inspire children with a deep love and joy for Jewish traditions.”
At the Hebrew School, students explore Jewish practices, history, culture, and Hebrew language skills in an engaging environment. The unique Hebrew reading curriculum, Aleph Champ, is modeled after the Karate belt system, motivating students to advance through color-coded levels as they master Hebrew
reading.
The school welcomes all Jewish children, regardless of background, affiliation, or financial status, to learn about Jewish culture, holidays, customs, and traditions presented in a fun and stimulating way.
This year, school is excited to share it is joining the Ckids Club, a program that incorporates creative activities designed to inspire children to make a meaningful impact in their communities while exploring the richness of Judaism.
The school year will begin with the first Ckids Club event, Rosh Hashana Airlines. Students will embark on an exciting adventure filled with fun and creativity. Each student will receive a fanny pack and luggage tags as they prepare to soar into the New Year, ready for an academic year packed with Jewish discovery and joy.
For more information or to register, contact the Chabad Jewish Center at (516) 833-3057 Ext. 106, or email chs@chabadjewishlife.org. Visit the website at ChabadJewishLife.org/chs to secure a spot.
An early-bird discount of $50 is available until Aug. 16.
Nassau County detectives are investigating a robbery that occurred at 12:30 p.m. Friday on Island Road near Jennie Road in Wantagh.
According to police, a 13-year-old boy was riding his bicycle when he noticed a dirt bike near the entrance of a trail. As he approached, two men on dirt bikes confronted him. One suspect punched the boy in the face and pulled him to the ground. When the boy tried to defend himself, the second man punched and kicked him. The suspects then stole the boy’s backpack and fled east on Island Road on a green mini dirt bike and a red mini dirt bike.
The boy suffered cuts and bruis-
es to his elbows and left knee. His lip and forehead were swollen. A Nassau County Ambulance treated him at the scene.
The first suspect is described as a white male, 15 to 18 years old, with dark hair and an average build. He was wearing a black shirt, gray sweatpants, and a black helmet with “Blizzake” on it. The second suspect is described as a white male, also 15 to 18 years old, with an average build. He was wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts.
Anyone with information is asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.
— Charles Shaw
On July 23, a catalytic converter was stolen from a car while parked on West End Avenue in Massapequa.
A package was stolen from a residence on Soloff Road in Massapequa on July 26.
A woman stole assorted items from a 7 Eleven on Jerusalem Road in North Bellmore on July 29.
Patrick Walsh, 63, of Levittown, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Stop & Shop on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow on July 25.
Christine Lanteri, 59, of Babylon, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Stop & Shop on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow on July 27.
Victoria Nolan, 34, of Hempstead, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Target on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on July 28.
Omawatte Peters, 45, of Freeport, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Home Goods on Merrick road in Merrick on July 31.
Jeffrey Gehrlein, 36, of Central Islip, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at a Walmart on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow on Aug. 1.
Miriam Sundquist, 44, of Want-
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, HCNP 1 LLC, Plaintiff, vs. THOMAS LOUIS MAURO
A/K/A THOMAS L. MAURO, ET AL., Defendant (s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 20, 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 11501on August 29, 2024, at 2:00 PM, premises known as 406 RED MAPLE DRIVE
agh, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at a Target on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on Aug. 2.
Gabriella Deluca, of Wantagh, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at a Target in Broadway Mall in Hicksville on Aug. 2.
Justin Moore, 46, of Levittown, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Walmart on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow on Aug. 4.
Joseph Castro, 60, of Wantagh, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Stop & Shop on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow on Aug. 4.
Andrea Imbergamo, 29, of Levittown, was arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Walmart on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow on Aug. 4.
A man damaged a computer monitor base at an AMC Theatres on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown on July 28.
A fence was damaged on Ercell Drive in Wantagh on July 31.
A flag was reported damaged at a residence on Rolling Lane in Levittown on Aug. 3.
On July 23, a catalytic converter was stolen from a car while parked on West End Avenue in Massapequa.
A/K/A RED MAPLE DRIVE WEST WANTAGH, NEW YORK 11793. 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: 51, Block: 389, Lot: 38. Approximate amount of judgment is $687,046.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 614501/2018. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.
GEORGIA PAPAZIS, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 148131
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST MARK VAUGHAN, CASEY VAUGHAN, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 8, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on
September 11, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 3982 KINGSBERRY ROAD, SEAFORD, NY 11783. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at PlainedgeWantagh, Partly in the Town of Oyster Bay and Partly in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 52, Block 450, Lot 19A and 19B. Approximate amount of judgment $433,510.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008440/2015. 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”. Jared Kasschau, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-000890 81669 148300
LEGAL NOTICE. NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 54-2024 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, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held August 6th, 2024, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 54-2024, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 54-2024, amending
Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations.
Dated: August 6, 2024 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 148435
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 08/21/2024 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 541/24. WANTAGHPhilip Cannistra, Maintain shed with more than required rear & side yard setbacks., S/E cor. Ray Rd. & Bruce Dr., a/k/a 975 Ray Rd. ** 546/24. - 547/24.
LEVITTOWN - Ryan & Denise Duck, Variance, front yard average setback, maintain roofed over portico attached to dwelling; Maintain 4’ high fence forward of dwelling which may substantially obstruct line of sight., E/s Saddle La., 398.13’ S/o Knoll La., a/k/a 103 Saddle La. DEFECTIVE NOTICE - TO BE ADJOURNED. 550/24. - 551/24. LEVITTOWN - Richard & Brittany Losco, Variances, height, maintain 2-car detached garage forward of dwelling on Reverse La. & Hunt Rd.; Maintain 6’ high fence forward of building on Reverse La. & Hunt Rd. & in the clear sight triangle on Reverse La. & Hunt Rd. which may substantially obstruct line of sight., S/E cor. Round La. & Reverse La. running thru to Hunt Rd., a/k/a 31 Round La.
ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Wantagh & Levittown within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.gov/ 509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.gov/ 576/Live-Streaming-Video Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 148430
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WANTAGH UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Education of the Wantagh Union Free School District is proposing to appropriate from the repair reserve fund established by the Board of Education on May 3, 2018, an amount not to exceed FIFTY-FIVE THOUSAND ($55,000) DOLLARS in total to repair the Wantagh High School Varsity Baseball infield. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing on such proposed appropriation will be held on August 22, 2024 at 8:00 p.m., prevailing time, in the Auditorium of Wantagh High School, 3297 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York 11793.
Elaine McGuigan, District Clerk Wantagh UFSD August 7, 2024 148420
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Q. We are near the end of our building project, which included a second floor and removing walls between our kitchen and living room. Our contractor hasn’t been answering the phone, and we learned that our building permit is still “open,” and remains that way until the contractor follows through, as our contract states. We are so frustrated, because it took much longer than we were promised, we spent much more than expected staying in a cheap hotel (if you call it that) and we moved back in even though, technically, we are told it is illegal. Our electrician and plumber, we now learn, didn’t get permits signed off, either, even though they gave their names and licenses to the building department. The building inspector says the construction doesn’t match the plans, and updated plans must be submitted for us to even be considered finished. What can you tell us about how to move forward and finish this off?
A. Spoken words and contracts used to mean something. I prefer to believe they still do, but I am seeing parties ignoring their commitments and, worst of all, not even having the decency to communicate. I try to warn clients to have a contingency plan for worst-case scenarios.
In my long career, I have seen only two projects come in on budget, one commercial and one residential. What both had in common was that they both had an experienced construction manager on the job. That cost the owner more — much more — but in the end, the plans were followed to the letter, the sign-offs were all done, the certifications were issued and the occupancy took place on the day it was scheduled to. Considering the other 4,500-plus projects I’ve done, that is a sad record.
At this point you have no choice. The plans that were not followed require re-measuring, and the plans need to reflect the changes. In many circumstances I have witnessed, this is easier said than done, because if the construction changes ignored structural load paths, hidden conditions now buried behind wall coverings or code violations, the architect or engineer of record is not obligated to just go along with the defective work. Unfortunately, this unfairly strains the relationship with the architect or engineer.
The missing-in-action construction professionals, your licensed contractor, licensed plumber and licensed electrician, have obligations, not the least of which is to communicate with you, but the authorities giving the licenses and your building authority rarely protect you, often telling you that it is a “civil matter.” So much for consumer protection, because you are stuck and will need to decide who you can hire to take over the electrical sign-off, the plumbing sign-off and finally, after those are done and the plans have been modified and reapproved, then you will need to call for the final inspection yourself. Follow-up can be time-consuming, but it may be the only way around the situation. Good luck!
© 2024 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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Taking an evening off from Donald Trump, Kamala Harris and the frenzied world of politics in general, I recently sat down with my 20-year-old grandson Jack, who is staying with us for the summer, to bingewatch the HBO Max four-part special on Pete Rose, “Charlie Hustle.”
Every baseball fan, as well as many people who aren’t even sports fans, is aware of Pete Rose — either because of his truly outstanding 24-year major league career as a player, plus several years as a manager, or for the swirl of controversy that has surrounded him since he left baseball over three decades ago.
Rose came up to the major leagues with the Cincinnati Reds in 1963 and played there until 1978, and again from 1983 until 1986, after stints with the Philadelphia Phillies and Montreal Expos. He also managed the Reds until 1989, following two seasons as player-manager. During his playing career, he set records that should have guaranteed his permanent placement in baseball’s version of Mount Rushmore, the Hall of Fame in
Looking
one hundred people serve in the United States Senate. They represent the entire political spectrum, from far left to far right. There are definitely zealots, such as Bernie Sanders, the Democrat from Vermont, and Tom Cotton, the Arkansas Republican, and then there are the middle-of-the-road members, such as Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, and Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska.
Then there is Sen. Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican.
I single out Cruz because he stands head and shoulders above all the other senators, for all the wrong reasons. Cruz is running for re-election this year, but this discussion has nothing to do with his current campaign. An article in a Long Island weekly newspaper isn’t going to sink the re-election efforts of this very strange public official.
For those who follow the action in the Senate, Cruz has the distinction of being the most disliked member of the body, on both sides of the aisle. How did
upstate Cooperstown.
Rose had more hits — 4,256 — and played in more games — 3,562 — than any player in major league history. He was selected for 17 All-Star games, won three batting titles and was named the National League’s Most Valuable Player once and the World Series MVP once. His entire list of achievements could fill this column and more.
Those achievements are virtually unmatched in the history of baseball, and dwarf those of many players in the Hall of Fame. If ever there should have been a sure thing for baseball immortality, it was Pete Rose.
Should his ban from baseball, and the Hall of Fame, continue? Opinions differ.
Probably the easiest way to describe Rose the person, however, is that as great a ballplayer as he was, he was that much of a jerk. He was a degenerate gambler. He bet not just on horses, greyhounds and at casinos, but also, despite almost two decades of denials, on baseball, which has been that sport’s cardinal sin since the 1919 World Series, when players on the Chicago White Sox — the infamous “Black Sox” — threw the World Series and were banned from baseball for life.
Generations later, after an extensive investigation, Commissioner Bart Gia-
matti concluded that Rose had gambled on baseball and banned him for life. There was no evidence, however, that Rose ever bet against his own team, which was what doomed the Black Sox. Soon after his banishment from baseball, Rose was charged by the IRS with tax evasion and sentenced to five months in federal prison. Most jarring to him was the Hall of Fame’s decision not to admit any player who had been banned for life.
In the years since, Rose has been like a man without a country. He has made good money at autograph shows, sports forums and media appearances. But he has been almost desperate for Hall of Fame membership. In his 2000 book, “My Prison Without Bars,” he finally admitted to betting on baseball, while still insisting he had never bet against his own team.
The debate has raged among baseball fans about Rose’s Hall of Fame eligibility. My son Sean, who was with me at Shea Stadium on July 25, 1978, when Rose tied the National League 37-consecutive-game hitting streak record, thinks that enough time has passed to end the lifetime ban and allow Rose into the Hall of Fame. My grandson Jack, who played a lot of good baseball in his teenage
years, agrees, as do I. The “Charlie Hustle” documentary, however, made us rethink. In it, allegations are made by a longtime associate that Rose engaged in cocaine deals to finance his gambling habit. There was an accusation by a woman claiming sexual involvement with Rose 40 years ago, when she was underage. Though corroborating evidence hasn’t been made public, there was an out-of-court settlement, and Rose became his own worst enemy when he answered a female reporter’s inquiry on the matter with a stupid sexist comment.
In most of the documentary, Rose comes across as friendly and carefree, like a Huckleberry Finn or a Little Rascal. But then there are jarring, crude comments and proof that he is a chronic and habitual liar, which takes away much of that rustic charm.
Jack now thinks Rose’s bans from baseball and the Hall of Fame should continue. Sean and I concluded that the baseball ban should continue, but he should be allowed entry into the Hall, provided that his plaque makes clear that the honor is only for his achievements on the field.
The debate continues.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
he get into this unique situation? His career track is similar to many other senators. He’s a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School. He was known as an excellent debater, and his criminal law professor, Alan Dershowitz, said Cruz was “off-the-charts brilliant.”
He got his first taste of politics in 1999, when he went to work on the George W. Bush presidential campaign. He practiced law, and then decided to run for the Senate in 2013. With the help of the Tea Party movement, Cruz became the first Hispanic American from Texas to be elected to the Senate. All seemed normal up to that point, but as time passed, he became more and more irritating to his fellow senators. By 2013 he had earned the distinction of being called a “wacko bird” by his colleague the late Sen. John McCain.
went so far as to publish a “Compendium of People Who Hate Ted Cruz.” His former roommate called him “a nightmare of a human being.”
H e called Trump a ‘pathological liar,’ but guess who ‘Lyin’ Ted’ supports now?
What has made Cruz so disliked? In 2013 he staged a 21-hour talking marathon on the Senate floor against the Affordable Care Act. During his talkathon, he read Dr. Seuss’s “Green Eggs and Ham,” a bedtime story that he claimed to have read to his two daughters. That event translated into a shutdown of the federal government for 16 days, costing taxpayers grief and millions of dollars.
trip to Cancun. That winter, Texas was caught in a serious winter freeze. The state’s power grid had failed, and millions of Texans were without heat or power. In the middle of the crisis, Cruz travel to Cancun with his family to get away from the state’s misery. He was caught by cameras at the airport, ready to board his flight.
He claimed he planned the vacation for his children, and he was only flying to Cancun and coming right back. His wife’s texts described their home as “FREEZING,” and it was clear that it was a trip to get away from the cold while his constituents were suffering.
The barbs weren’t just from fellow senators. The Dallas Observer wrote that Cruz “defied the odds to become the most unpopular member of the U.S. Senate, a body of people whose collective approval rating falls below approval ratings for hemorrhoids, traffic jams, root canals and Nickelback.” Rolling Stone
In 2016, Cruz decided to run for president. One of his opponents was Donald J. Trump. The contest between the two was as ugly as you could imagine. They attacked each other’s wives, citizenship and integrity. Trump called Cruz “Lyin’ Ted,” mocked his wife’s appearance and falsely suggested that his father was involved in President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Cruz called Trump a “sniveling coward,” a “pathological liar” and “utterly amoral.” But by the end of the primaries, Cruz had endorsed Trump. No commentary on Cruz would be complete without mentioning his 2021
As for his legislative record, it includes such things as opposing gun laws even though his state had suffered mass killings, and calling the Supreme Court’s legalization of gay marriage a form of “tyranny.”
There is so much more to say about this man and his character. But the best way to end this is to say that I bet even my fellow columnist Peter King dislikes Ted Cruz.
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.
as summer winds down, many Long Island families face a bittersweet milestone: sending a child off to college for the first time. This transition marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, filled with excitement, anxiety and a mix of emotions for both parents and students.
For parents, the challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between supporting your child’s independence and maintaining a nurturing presence. Here is some key advice to help you navigate this new terrain:
1. Embrace the change. Remember that this transition is a natural and positive step in your child’s development. Your role in his or her life is evolving, not diminishing. Celebrate this milestone and the opportunities it brings.
2. Prepare practically, not just emotionally. Ensure that your child has the necessary life skills before she leaves. Can she do laundry, manage a budget, and cook a simple meal? These practical abilities will boost her confidence and self-reliance.
3. Discuss expectations clearly. Have open conversations about academics, finances and communication. How often will you check in? What GPA do you expect him to maintain? Establishing clear guidelines can prevent misunderstandings down the road.
4. Encourage campus involvement. Urge
To the Editor:
your child to take part in orientation activities and join clubs or organizations. These connections can ease homesickness and help her find her place in her new community.
5. Be a supportive listener. Your child will likely experience ups and downs. Resist the urge to immediately solve his problems. Instead, offer a sympathetic ear and guide him toward finding his own solutions.
6. Respect your child’s privacy. While it’s tempting to check in constantly, remember that she needs space to grow. Trust that you’ve prepared her well and allow her to make her own decisions — and mistakes.
7. Take care of yourself. This transition affects you, too. Connect with other parents going through the same experience, take up a new hobby, or consider volunteering. Your well-being matters.
8. Plan for visits wisely. Schedule campus visits, but be mindful of your child’s new routines and commitments. Family Weekend can be a great opportunity to reconnect, and see him in his new environment.
9. Embrace technology. Familiarize yourself with video calling platforms and texting. These tools can help maintain closeness despite the physical distance.
10. Prepare for changes at home. If you have younger children, be aware that family dynamics may change. Include
Re Peter King’s column “There’s just no predicting what will happen next” (Aug. 1-7): I live in southwest Nassau County, so never had the opportunity to have Congressman King on a ballot. It would have been unlikely for me to support him, because I’m a registered Democrat, and have moved from mid-left to further over as the years have passed. About to turn 80, I’ve got quite a rearview mirror, as does King.
I never saw him as a hack politician — he explained his positions clearly, with passion for what he believed was best for us all. He always had my respect. King’s vote against President Bill Clinton’s impeachment still stands in the forefront of my mind. His position took political guts.
In his piece, King laid out the flaws in President Biden’s bid for another term, along with numerous elements surrounding the aftermath of the June 27 debate. The dynamics of the race have changed dramatically in the days since Biden’s withdrawal. Former President Trump has sunk to new lows in
the kids in discussions, and find ways to make this transition positive for everyone.
11. Stay informed, but don’t hover: Familiarize yourself with campus resources, but encourage your child to seek help independently when needed. Knowing when to step back is crucial.
12. Expect growth and change. Your child will likely return home with new perspectives, habits, and possibly even a changed appearance. Embrace these changes as signs of her personal growth.
Remember, this transition is as much about your growth as a parent as it is about your child’s journey to adulthood. It’s an opportunity to redefine your relationship and watch with pride as he spreads his wings.
For those feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. Our communities are full of parents who have walked this path before you. Reach out to friends, family members or local support groups for advice and comfort.
As your child embarks on this new adventure, take comfort in knowing that the strong foundation you’ve provided will serve her well. The values you’ve instilled, and the love and support you’ve offered over the years will guide her as she navigates this exciting new chapter of her life.
All of us at the Herald wish you and your college-bound students a smooth transition filled with growth, learning and new beginnings.
scorching, sweltering, suffocating. We’re all struggling to keep our cool these days, as a dangerous heat dome hovers over much of the country and threatens lives and livelihoods. Here in Nassau county, we’ve experienced successive weeks of extreme heat that has disrupted everything from our transit systems to our enjoyment of the outdoors.
This after last summer, when historic wildfires in canada brought barely breathable, smoky air to our state.
We can choose to stay indoors all summer, or we can be honest about how we got to this overheated moment. We know exactly what is causing this dizzying change in our climate. emissions from burning fossil fuels — oil, gas, coal — produce greenhouse gases that blanket the globe and trap the sun’s heat. and we know that global carbon emissions have been steadily increasing, warming our oceans and atmosphere.
But even in the face of damning evidence, the fossil fuel industry won’t
back down. companies continue to drill new wells, build new pipelines and sell oil, gas and coal to burn, trapping us all under heat domes that aren’t just unbearable, but lethal.
Why haven’t we moved away from burning fossil fuels?
Because fossil fuel corporations have used their resources to block necessary climate action at every turn.
the industry itself predicted global warming with uncanny accuracy.
Decades ago, the fossil fuel industry documented a sophisticated scientific understanding and predicted with uncanny accuracy how the globe would heat. Next, its leaders developed a multipronged effort to undermine the scientific data they themselves had uncovered, so they could stymie policies that would reduce the use of fossil fuels. Part of that campaign was a sustained effort to frame climate change as a matter of individual actions (like recycling or turning off the tap while brushing your teeth) instead of structural policy change.
Rather than investing in solutions, these corporations spent billions of dollars on the systems that have enabled them to continue to frack, mine, extract and, most important, pull in constant, breathtaking profits — even while the
gender and race bashing. Though not unpredictable for him, his behavior must be coupled with the remarkable positions brought forward by his running mate, J.D. Vance. Together it’s quite a package.
I’m interested to learn how King feels about the Trump side of the campaign, because he said little on that front. My impression is that, whereas he supported Trump in the past, it would be a difficult lever for him to pull this time, and that he just might sit this one out. I’m curious about how King feels about the direction in which Trump/Vance want to take the country. What outcome does King want for us?
Thanks to King for being a quality congressman on the other side. He served when civil discourse was the norm, when rivalries were highly respectful, such as Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill. The very best to King.
JOsHua WeIss Hewlett
As King wrote, it was ‘almost as if it had been planned’
To the editor:
While Vice President Harris calls Donald Trump a threat to democracy, it was the Democrats who subverted it by negating the votes of millions of registered Democrats who chose President Biden in the primaries. The bloodless coup, which forced the president to withdraw from the race under unusual circumstances,
planet got hotter and hotter. This included investing in policymakers and politicians, from state houses to the halls of congress to the supreme court, as well as universities. Today, legislation that would — and should — enable us to invest in clean-energy solutions is routinely quashed because of the powerful sway of the fossil fuel industry. Its profits are valued over our very lives. so where do we go from here?
simply put, to the streets: to the state houses, to congress, to the ballot box. and we need to do it together amid a summer that is already one of the five hottest ever, we need to wield our collective power as voters, as citizens, as consumers. We need millions of people to stand up to those billions of dollars. We need to demand the kind of big, systemic changes that are our only hope to slow the pace of change and give us a chance to survive.
Because, make no mistake, we have the means to change course on this path of destruction. Just as humans created coal-powered trains and oil furnaces, we have invented clean-energy solutions such as solar-, wind- and water-powered electricity.
But we need to demand this change.
allowed a privileged few to choose a new candidate, who, at the time, had a low approval rating. any rational person knows that Biden should never have been allowed to run in the primaries for a second term. That would have led to meaningful Democratic primaries that were not a sham!
Mel YOuNg, MD Lawrence
To the editor:
Re Jerry Kremer’s column “When Joe was born, they threw away the mold” (aug. 1-7): glad to see that Kremer has such a high regard for our president, and that their interactions have been so positive. good for Jerry.
That said, I, and others (I’m not a Maga, nor am I a fan of Trump) certainly have a different view from Kremer’s.
I find it hard to comprehend the idea that “no one … can match (Biden’s) talent for getting things done on a bipartisan basis” and his “history-making achievements.” From the economy, to the millions of people flooding our border with no plan in place to handle them, to the debacle in afghanistan, to gas price and mortgage rates, and of course the lies about his mental status from Kremer’s party, not sure he can convince us of Biden’s greatness.
Paul Facella Long Beach
That’s why I’m joining other people of faith and climate activists from all over at the ongoing summer of Heat protests, which take place outside the headquarters of the major financial institutions in Manhattan. If we can persuade the executives of these institutions how much we care about this, and manage to cut off funding to the fossil fuel industry, we will be taking a huge step toward dismantling that industry.
People of all backgrounds need to show up with spiritual audacity, educating, energizing and mobilizing our communities to act. When people realize that generations to come may face ever more devastating disasters — droughts, fires, floods, famines — they need the inspiration to turn despair into action.
Bottom line? If we want to beat the heat, we need to keep fossil fuels in the ground, unburned. Which means challenging the fossil fuel industry with moves to cut off funding from banks, asset managers and financial firms.
I think of the quote from Deuteronomy: “It is not beyond us in heaven.” Indeed, humans can make a new future. We have the capacity. We have the science, the resources, the people and the power. It is in our hands and in our hearts, and we can do it. We must.
Lauren Krueger is the co-leader of the Nassau County Dayenu Circle. She lives in Merrick.
