Manhasset 2022_11_25

Dems, GOP deadlock on redistricting

Litigation predicted as decision on maps moves to Nassau Legislature

BY ROBERT PELAEZ AND STEVEN KEEHNER

The Nassau County Temporary Districting Advisory Commission voted along party lines for a pair of resolutions to submit maps to the county’s Republican-controlled legislature Monday night, prompting Democratic officials to say they anticipate litigation to be filed.

The 11-member committee made up of five Democrats, five Republicans and one nonvoting chairman, voted along party lines, 5-5, for each of their submissions.

The Republicans, who presented a revised map that moved Stewart Manor into the 8th Legislative District right before the meeting started, all voted in favor of their submission, while all the Democrats opposed it. The Democrats, who had a pair of maps they wanted to present to the Legislature, all voted in favor of their motion to do so, while all Republicans opposed it.

The county Legislature, comprised of 12 Republican officials and seven Democrats, will now be in charge of reviewing all of the maps, public input and materials obtained by the commis-

sion and drawing their own district lines.

“The only thing that happened here is that the Republicans of Nassau County have guaranteed litigation over an illegal map,” Democratic committee member David Mejias said following the vote. “If and when they lose, it’s going to cost the taxpayers millions of dollars.”

Chairman Frank X. Moroney said Mejias’ prediction of litigation was something he had heard from the start of the redistricting process. Moroney said Republican officials asked the Democratic commission to work across the aisle, saying the Democrats “did not want to do that.”

“If we litigate it, we litigate it,” Moroney said about the maps. “It’s unfortunate.”

The map was last redrawn in 2013. Democratic officials have chastised Republicans for their lack of transparency in developing the 2023 map. They contend that the Republican proposal allows officials to select their representatives rather than the public.

“Our proposal eliminates partisan gerrymandering, complies fully with

BY BRANDON DUFFY

The North Hempstead Town Board voted to allocate $2 million in federal funds to replace the sidewalks along Westbury Avenue in

Carle Place while also agreeing to work together on how to distribute the rest of the American Rescue Plan Act money for other town projects.

While the county funds the sidewalk work, Nassau County will pay

to improve the 100-year-old roadway.

“This joint project is ready to start moving almost immediately since the repaving of Westbury Av-

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MANHASSET CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BK Lounge & Spa held a ribbon cutting at their Manhasset store with local officials in attendance.

NYU Langone eyes

Gillen calls for bail reform repeal

Dem CD4 candidate says laws cost party

BY ROBERT PELAEZ

Former Town of Hempstead Su pervisor and Democrat Laura Gillen said the Republican Party’s messag ing on crime worked in New York due to the state’s cashless bail laws and called for the repeal of the leg islation following her loss in the 4th Congressional District election.

Gillen said on Twitter that the Republican’s focus on crime failed throughout most of the United States, but New York’s exception is because of the “wildly unpopular cashless bail laws.”

Repealing the laws, she said, would better allow Democrats to win back the 3rd and 4th Congressional Districts in 2024.

“New York’s cashless bail law was rushed when it passed and did not sufficiently consider the realities of criminal courts and the need for judicial discretion,” Gillen tweeted. “Albany should get rid of this law and do better. If they don’t, Republicans will continue to use it forcefully and with great effect against democrats. Without it casting a shadow over every Democratic candidate in the state, we can win seats back in two years.”

the modified laws eliminated pretrial detention and optional cash bail in an estimated 90 percent of cases.

While judges throughout New York have the option to set bail in almost any case involving a violent felony, they may also release individ uals in almost all other cases on their own recognizance or enact certain terms to make sure they ultimately return to court.

What judges cannot do, under the new bail reform laws, is to con sider an individual’s “dangerous ness” when setting those terms.

Gillen, who expressed her gripes with the bail laws throughout her campaign, ultimately lost to Repub lican Anthony D’Esposito, a former NYPD detective and Hempstead councilman. D’Esposito received 137,899, or 51.9% of votes, com pared to Gillen’s 127,748, or 48.08%.

Fellow Democrat and former Nassau County Executive Laura Cur ran attributed her loss to running on the same ballot as state Sen. Todd Kaminsky, who was bashed by his Republican opponent Anne Donnelly for “authoring” state bail reform laws.

BY ROBERT PELAEZ

NYU Langone could be shifting some of its operations to Manhas set, potentially occupying the space formerly home to Lord & Taylor on Northern Boulevard, according to of ficials.

“An application was submitted for the proposed conversion of an exist ing commercial retail building to an ambulatory care center with associ ated site improvements to be oper ated by told Blank Slate Media. “It has been reviewed, and an omission letter has been issued. A response to the omission letter was made, and a review will be forthcoming.”

Efforts to reach representatives from NYU Langone for comment on the matter were unavailing.

The Lord & Taylor stores in Manhasset and Garden City were two of the remaining 38 locations the re tailer had kept open after its parent

company, France-based Le Tote Inc., filed for bankruptcy in the Eastern District of Virginia’s U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Richmond in August 2020.

Bankruptcy rumors had surround ed the 194-year-old company since it closed its 11-story flagship Manhattan store on Fifth Avenue in 2019. Follow ing the closing of a number of loca tions after officially filing, Le Tote had reported that it was seeking a buyer for the remaining stores.

The two North Shore locations had previously undergone major renovation projects, first announced in 2016.

The Garden City location received an enhanced spa room and addi tions to its top-floor cafe, completed in 2016, and the Manhasset location received a 38,000-square-foot expan sion and additional parking, opening the new developments in late 2018.

The three-story building, which closed its doors in 2020 along with

all other Lord & Taylor stores across the country, was transformed into a SaksWorks space last year. SaksWorks is a membership-based company with high-end workspaces that can include restaurants, fitness classes, concierge services and more.

Hudson’s Bay, a former parent company of Lord & Taylor, said it will turn some of the now-vacant stores into SaksWorks. The parent company of Saks Fifth Avenue, Hudson’s Bay announced the idea for SaksWorks in August 2021.

The individual membership costs are $49 for a day pass, $299 for a monthly membership, and $2,999 for an annual membership, officials said. A Hudson’s Bay spokesperson said in an email that the company was “ex ploring all opportunities for repurpos ing Lord and Taylor sites” throughout its portfolio.

New York implemented bail re form laws in January 2020, with modifications being passed in April that same year. State officials said

Curran, in December, told WABC “there’s not a doubt in my mind that I would have won if he were not on the ticket.”

While Curran’s prediction of a Continued on Page 47

Roslyn Times: Steven Keehner 516-307-1045 x214 • skeehner@theisland360.com

Williston Times: Brandon Duffy 516-307-1045 x215 • bduffy@theisland360.com

Port Washington Times: Steven Keehner 516-307-1045 x214 • skeehner@theisland360.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOGLE MAPS

NYU Langone could be setting up operations at the former Lord & Taylor store in Manhasset, according to officials.

PHOTO BY ROBERT PELAEZ

Former Hempstead Supervisor Laura Gillen bashed the state’s reformed bail laws.

flag football team

BY JESSICA TAYLOR

The Herricks Board of Education held a meeting on Thursday night to furtherdiscuss the potential of a girls’ flag football team.

Director of Athletics Jim Petricca presented a PowerPoint to answer some of thequestions and comments from the last board meeting.

He began by saying that a number of students reached out to him

regarding a girls’ flag football team, which prompted him to send out a survey to further assess the students’ interest. The results were extremely positive.

“In the spring of 2022 Nassau County, held a pilot program followingBellmore-Merrick, Freeport, Hempstead, Locust Valley, Long Beach, Lynbrook, Massapequa, Plainview-Old Bethpage and West Hempstead to add girls’ flag football this

current year,” Petricca said.

More schools interested in adding this sport are Bethpage, East Rockaway, Rivertown district, Plainedge, Roslyn, Roosevelt, Uniondale, Valley Stream districts and Westbury.

The New York Jets funded the program and are offering 25 sets of home and awayuniforms, footballs, flags and belts to the new participating schools. They are alsogiving $4,400 dollars to each school to off-

set costs.

Additional costs would come to roughly around $1,900, not including transportation orcoaches.

Petricca also made it a point to emphasize that if the students had known about thisnew sport, they would have presented their interest during the last budgetmeetings.

He gave Ashlee Katz, the captain of the girls’ soccer team at Herricks HS,the floor to advocate for

the addition of a girls’ flag football team. She said that flag football causes“leadership and develops teamwork.”

Katz added, “We want the opportunity to connect and bring the community together just like the boys do during football season.”

She called it a “symbol of equality and opportunity”.

SCREENCAP BY BRANDON DUFFY

The Herricks Board of Education pictured during a previous meeting.

Coalition calls for Belmont Park update

Horse racing industry leaders pushing state to approve $455M bond to renovate area

BY BRANDON DUFFY

Modernizing Belmont Park is at the forefront of the 2023 legislative agenda for We Are N.Y. Horse Racing, a business and labor coalition that unveiled its plans in Albany Thursday morning.

The coalition of horse racing in dustry leaders in the state is pushing the state government during budget season to approve and back a $455 million bond issue to renovate Bel mont Park in Elmont.

Officials said the bond would not use taxpayer money and be paid back with racing revenue over 30 years.

The horse racing industry in New York generates $3 billion in annual economic activity while sustaining 19,000 jobs, according to the NYRA.

“Modernizing Belmont Park will only increase the tremendous ben efits horse racing brings to everyone from farmers in the North Country to backstretch workers on Long Island to hotel workers in Saratoga,” said Heather Briccetti Mulligan, president and CEO of the Business Council of New York State. “We are excited to help the coalition continue to make the case this year in Albany.”

Officials added that improve ments at the park could bring back the Breeders’ Cup to Long Island for

according to the NYRA.

the first time since 2005. The cup would be an additional marquee event on the horse racing calendar,

which includes the Belmont Stakes, the third leg in the Triple Crown competition along with the Kentucky

Derby and Preakness in Maryland. NYRA attempted to get similar financial support in the 2022 budget

with a $450 million bond but was un successful. Previous efforts included funding for a new grandstand and track improvements, among others.

“A new Belmont Park will cre ate thousands of jobs for New York ers and drive tourism downstate for decades,” said Jeff Cannizzo, senior director of government affairs for the NYRA. “No taxpayer funds will be used for this project and NYRA will be responsible for all debt.”

Renovations the park has seen since the summer months include the pony track, which was previously a dirt track, where synthetic turf will be installed in place of the original sur face. Additionally, new fencing will be installed on the Plainfield Avenue border in Floral Park.

The main track and turf training course has been closed since Aug. 7 and is expected to be completed in 2023 before the Belmont Stakes, ac cording to the National Racing Asso ciation.

Vehicular and pedestrian tun nels will also be constructed, which Pat McKenna of the NYRA says will unlock the 45-acre infield at Belmont Park, provide more access to fans and allow NYRA to consider a synthetic track in the future.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ISLAND 360 ARCHIVES

The horse racing industry in New York generates $3 billion in annual economic activity while sustaining 19,000 jobs,

Loop luxury boutique coming to Port in ‘23

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

Brothers David and Afshin Haghani have run Gallery Couture in Manhasset since 1991. Together hey have assembled some of the most sought-after designers in the fashion world to cater to their clientele.

This attention to service, combined with a keen sense of fashion, have earned them a loyal following. They intend to bring this passion and style to Port Washington starting in early Janu ary.

“An opportunity came up — the space was available,” Afshin Haghani said. “It was a highly coveted space with great pedigree because it was a clothing store for over 20 years before us. There was an actual clothing store there and people still talk about that space. So here we are.”

Previously, the location housed a clothing store called Entree Boutique. The new multibrand boutique will specialize in lux casual clothing and accessories and will be on 11 Main St.

Haghani stressed they will not limit their of ferings to one type of woman. Ranging from $70 to $700, he said Loop will be a place where any one can find something fashionable, regardless of finances, size, age or design.

“We’re not gearing for just one specific type of body shape,” he said. “Or type of woman, type of lifestyle or socio-economic background.”

This eye has allowed him and his brother’s business to thrive for so long, he said. He’s work ing with an architect to redesign the site through an Americana lens, with the goal of creating a “lux casual vibe.”

Haghani said his goal has always been to be one step ahead of fashion trends. Not so much that customers are scared away, but an approach that is both innovative and stays within one’s comfort zone.

In particular, he is fond of what European clothing companies are producing.

“You can’t be too far ahead of the curve,” said Haghani. “You have to know when to back out from a trend. And you have to push your customers’ comfort zone because you know that six months from now, this will be trending, but she’s not aware of it yet.”

Haghani has used social media to build his brand. On TikTok, @galleycouture has gained over 53,000 followers. He said that by doing this, his brand has expanded beyond Long Is land’s North Shore.

“People are making appointments and com ing from Chicago because they’re coming to New York for a five-day break and they want to come shop with us,” he said. “So we’re really drawing people from everywhere and it’s not just a local clientele anymore.”

But Haghani hasn’t lost sight of beginning anew in Port Washington. While he said he al ready has clientele from Port, he stressed that there are many more who don’t know them and he will iseek to change that.

“A lot of our customers are from Port Wash ington, but we know that a lot of people don’t know who we are,” he said. “We welcome them with open arms and a glass of Chardonnay and maybe some tequila.”

One can follow @loop347 on Instagram for posts and details about the new location.

SCREENSHOT COURTESY OF @GALLERYCOUTURE ON TIKTOK)

The front of Port Washington’s upcoming Loop. The new women’s clothing store will open in January.

NICE donations to Island Harvest  Nicholas Center’s new program

With nationwide inflation adding extra stress on those experiencing food insecurity during the upcoming holiday season,Nassau Inter-County Express Bus have donated more than $11,000 in food and cash to Island Harvest as part of the Bethpage Annual Turkey Drive.

At the conclusion of a three-week campaign, NICE delivered seven pallets of canned and dried goods – more than 3,200 items which is the equivalent of 27 full shopping carts – donated by NICE riders and employees at collec-

tion boxes at NICE Garden City and Hempstead Transit centers.

Additionally, NICE secured 100 frozen turkeys for Island Harvest and made a $5,000 donation to the Island’s largest hunger relief organization.

“NICE Bus and its employees are keenly aware of the struggles some of our neighbors face in feeding their families at this time of year, and they have been supporting the annual Island Harvest drive since we began providing service to Nassau County in 2012,” noted Jack Khzouz, NICE Bus CEO.

The Nicholas Center, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing meaningful work and volunteer opportunities for adults with Autism who have aged out of school, proudly announces the launch of Port Provides.

Powered by The Nicholas Center. This program, begun as a COVID response effort by the Community of Chest of Port Washington, acts as an emergency supply chain for over 1,400 Port Washington men, women, children, infants, and senior citizens.

Port Provides’ team of volunteers procures food, diapers and wipes, feminine products and other household necessities and delivers them weekly to local food pantries and community organizations. It has been a life-changing source of goods for the people in our community who need it the most.

“Port Provides brings together Port Washington’s most vulnerable

citizens,” explains Nichole Sugrue, co-founder and executive director of The Nicholas Center. “Our participants, who are all adults on the autism spectrum, are too often isolated from meaningful work and volunteer opportunities. But now, as they secure and deliver vital goods for their neighbors in need, they have developed immense pride in their work and deep connections to people in the community. The idea of raising each other up, with neighbor helping neighbor is precisely the idea behind The Nicholas Center. There are no better solutions for our biggest challenges than those we find in our own backyards.”

The supplies purchased and delivered by Port Provides include meat, diapers in all sizes, wipes, personal care items like toothbrushes and toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, and cleaning supplies.

Although Port Provides has some items donated, they purchase

a good deal of the products needed, with costs running at approximately $25,000 a month.

“We ask the community’s help to keep this program going, said Sugrue. “You can donate goods or help us fund our purchase of goods via a GoFundMe Campaign at: Port Provides, Powered by The Nicholas Center. We also welcome mitzvah projects, food drives, and other community efforts to support this work.

Please contact Brooke Mellett at 516-767 7177 ext. 412 to arrange deliveries of goods or to make donations other than through the GoFundMe Campaign.

Port Provides is seeking grants and other donations to off set the costs of this important program and to ensure that Port Provides for its own.

Rosenblut’s service recognized

tion, including Parker’s Infection Control Patrol, an interdisciplinary program fostering Parker’s already strident infectionprevention measures.

Mr. Rosenblut was recognized for his leadership throughout the pandemic and beyond, inspiring team members to safely deliver superior health care, with compassion and dedication to older adults. He has spearheaded innovations at Parker, including its award-winning Family Call Center, Drive-Through COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Clinics, and, earlier, Medical House Calls, and a first-ofits-kind Indian Culture Unit. Recently, Mr. Rosenblut expanded access to care with the PRINE Health Vascular Center, which in addition to the Queens Long Island Renal Institute, is conveniently located on Parker’s first-floor lobby.

Mr. Rosenblut serves as a beacon of positivity, an ever-present quality demonstrated even in the height of the pandemic. It’s not unusual to see Mr. Rosenblut making the rounds at Parker,

visible and approachable, speaking with residents and patients, families and team members. While gathering information, he conveys an assurance and confidence that is seamless for this hands-on administrator. Mr. Rosenblut’s vital optimism helps Parker’s health-care staff thrive even in the most unprecedented times. His optimism has fueled further innova-

Under Mr. Rosenblut’s leadership, Parker is a resilient organization that continues to find ways to keep residents and patients engaged, incorporating diversity, equity and inclusion. And with an eye towards the future, Mr. Rosenblut is helping to ensure Parker’s fiscal viability, so the Institute continues delivering accessible health care to the most vulnerable population, while bringing careers with growth opportunities to Long Island and New York City.

“I am so proud to be honored by the New York Chapter of the American College of Health Care Administrators, with the Distinguished Service Award. This award very much reminds me of my father, Alan’s, distinguished health care career. I thank the Chapter for its important work, and for team members at Parker, for their dedication and service to older adults/families in the community,” Mr. Rosenblut said.

Submitted by The Nicholas Center Lee Anne Vetrone

The Parker Jewish Institute is pleased to announce that its President and CEO Michael N. Rosenblut has been honored with the New York Chapter of the American College of Health Care Administrators — Distinguished Service Award.

One Outstanding Standard of Care—Three Locations

NYU Langone hospitals are once again rated A in patient safety

NYU Langone Hospital— Long Island

NYU Langone Hospital— Brooklyn

NYU Langone Hospitals (Manhattan)

World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Owner and Garden City Resident

World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

- Owner and Garden City Resident

During an interview, Adam Sandler wore a blue hooded sweatshirt with the word “Port” inside a fish designed by Arena Sports in Port Washington. During the interview in Los Angeles, he discussed his love of playing losers in films as well as his new film.

Adam Sandler reps Port in CBS interview

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

Adam Sandler’s association with the North Shore was showcased again on CBS Sunday Morning when the actor wore a Port Washington sweatshirt.

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ognizing the masked star went viral less than a month before that. Sandler had walked in and left after she told him he would have to wait 30 minutes for a table.

Dayanna Rodas, the hostess, posted the 15-second TikTok video, which received over 13 million views and national attention. She joked about not recognizing him before showing security footage of their interaction.

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The well-known comedian was wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt with the word “Port” inside a fish, a design by Arena Sports in Port Washington. Sandler discussed his love of playing losers in films and his new movie during the interview.

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He previously wore the sweatshirt to a screening of his new film “Hustle” in New York City in October. However, his history with Long Island’s North Shore extends beyond then.

After filming in Nassau County last May, Sandler was spotted playing basketball in Roslyn’s Morley Park. Rocking a pink polo shirt and basketball shorts, his team reportedly won a half-court game.

More notably, an incident involving a hostess at an IHOP restaurant in Manhasset not rec-

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Sandler joked in a tweet at the time, “For the record, I only left the IHOP because the nice woman told me the all-you-can-eat deal didn’t apply to the milkshakes.”

Sandler’s idea was later implemented by the chain for only one day. IHOP restaurants nationwide welcomed guests to “Milkshake Monday,” where they could enjoy unlimited milkshakes for $6.50 per person.

But even prior to that, Sandler has long been pictured throughout places such as Greenvale, Roslyn and Port Washington. Healso recently performed at Elmont’s UBS Arena on Oct. 27.

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Mineola man wins $1M on scratch-off

BY BRANDON DUFFY

Mineola’s Carlos Salmeron Granados claimed his $1,000,000 top prize on a scratchoff, the New York Lottery announced.

The winning ticket in the Multiplier Money scratch-off game was purchased at the 7-Eleven located at 207 Jericho Turnpike.

Salmeron Granados received a one-time

lump sum payment of $546,840 after required withholdings, the lottery said.

New York Lottery scratch-off games generated $4,231,742,980 in total sales during fiscal year 2020-2021. School districts in Nassau County received $172,704,552 in Lottery Aid to Education funds during the same period, the lottery said.

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

SCREENSHOT COURTESY OF CBS SUNDAY MORNING

Calls to deal with town’s feral cats persist

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

Calls for a cat shelter in North Hempstead and an improved trap, neuter and release pro gram were heard again during a Town of North Hempstead Board meeting Nov. 17.

Several different speakers addressed the board on the topic. They claimed that the town was falling behind others on Long Island and that the problem would not go away without their help.

David Bernacchi, the founder of the animal rescue nonprofit Pets4Luv, was one speaker. He described the issues the town is facing as sig nificant.

“I’ve been doing rescue for over 30 years and the feral cat problem is a major one, espe cially in North Hempstead. The biggest problem we deal with is a lot of sick, injured cats that should not be outside,” Bernacchi said. “It’s not birds flying down and dropping cats, it’s the peo ple that are releasing them and not having them fixed. That’s causing the problem.”

Cat advocates have long argued that the town’s current trap, neuter and release program is inadequate. They say as it exists, it puts a bur den on individuals and local shelters.

Residents are provided with humane traps in exchange for bringing their cats in on a pre determined date to be spayed or neutered, vac cinatedand ear-tipped. Thisstabilizes feral cat populations by ending reproduction and remov ing socialized cats from the colony.

After a brief recuperation period, residents collect the cat(s) and return them to their origi nal colony. Currently, spay/neuter clinics are held once a month.

ued to call for a cat shelter in town as well as

program.

Those who spoke at the meeting said once a month is inadequate to deal with how quickly a cat colony can grow. The average cat can have one to eight kittens per litter and two to three

litters per year, according to the Roice-Hurst Hu mane Society.

“This is going on all over the Town of North Hempstead,” Wendy Bonczek, another advocate,

said. “People just have ferals and they’re feeding them, but nobody’s moving them and the cats are running around.”

In response, Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSe na mentioned the North Shore Animal League’s new Community Outreach Center in Port Wash ington, which assists cat owners with vaccinat ing, neutering, spayingand socializing cats.

The center is located in a renovated building on North Shore Animal League America’s cam pus. Its goal is to assist cat caregivers in identify ing feral, stray and lost cats, as well as what to do if residents discover a feral cat.

“That is what is so wonderful about these caregivers; these people are dedicated to the cats in their area, up every morning,” Sylvia Ot taka, senior director for rescue and community outreach at North Shore Animal League Amer ica, told Newsday. “Despite rain, snow, sleet or illness.”

They will help those who want to trap, neu ter, vaccinate and release cats, as well as guid ance for those who want to socialize cats so that they can be adopted as pets. Renting supplies and attending training are also offered.

Advocares at the board meeting, however, criticized the North Shore Animal League and its new center. Liz Diamond, another speaker, told the board they are only interested in “per fect kittens.”

“In the past, they never helped those of us that were doing the trapping here,” she said. “They get dogs and cats from other parts of the country and they ignore [them] if they’re not kittens and they’re not easily adoptable.”

Efforts to reach the North Shore Animal League for comments were unavailing.

PHOTO BY BRANDON DUFFY

David Bernacchi, founder of the animal rescue organization Pets4Luv, speaks to the North Hempstead Town Board. During a board meeting on Nov. 17, residents contin

an improved trap, neuter, and release

State GOP leader right on redistricting

State Republican Party Chairman Nick Langworthy protested loudly when Democratic state legislators approved new congressional maps in February that gave members of their own party as many as three more seats and eliminated as many as four of the Republicans’ eight seats.

“New York Democrats have hijacked the redistricting process and this week passed and signed into law the most filthy, textbook gerrymandering that will destroy competitive elections in New York if allowed to stand,” Langworthy said. ”Democrats brazenly subverted the will of the people who voted twice by referendum to take redistricting out of the hands of politicians and give district drawing powers to an independent, bipartisan panel.”

Langworthy had a point.

Under Gov. Andrew Cuomo the state passed a constitutional amendment in 2014 that created legally enforceable protections in state law against partisan gerrymandering.

But when the nonpartisan commission called for under the law was unable to agree on a congressional map, the Democratic-controlled Legislature took over. Instead of taking a half of loaf with a map that was reasonable but aided their party, they developed a one-sided plan.

A state court eventually agreed with Langworthy that state Democrats had violated that law and threw out the map. The judge then appointed a special master to draw up what would be some of the most politically balanced maps in the nation.

The state’s redrawn map goes a long way toward explaining why Democrats in New York lost four congressional districts in the recent elections.

Combined with partisan gerrymandering that took place in Republicancontrolled states like Texas and Florida, it also helps explain why Republicans were able to capture the House of Representatives.

How then to explain the proposed map for Nassau legislative districts presented by the five Republicans appointed to the county’s 10-member Temporary Districting Advisory Commission?

The 2023 map presented by the five Republicans closely follows the gerrymandered one approved by the county Legislature in a 10-9 party-line vote in 2013.

The 2013 map created 12 districts with a majority of registered Republicans vs. seven districts with a majority of Democratic voters. This was at the time when Democrats had a 20,000 advantage over Republicans in registered voters countywide.

Nassau’s gerrymandered districts destroyed, as Langworthy said about the Democrats’ congressional plan, competitive elections in Nassau for the next 10 years.

Republicans gained an 11-8 advantage in the county Legislature during that period as only one Democrat managed to win one seat in a district with a majority of Republican voters.

The Democrats’ edge in registered voters in Nassau during the past 10 years has grown to 100,000 – 420,000 to 320,000 with 270,000 voters expressing no preference.

But with redistricting remaining in the hands of politicians in Nassau, it will be the Republican county legislators who ultimately decide on the new legislative map using the advantage they gained in 2013.

This is likely to again subvert the will of the people with a minority of voters gaining a majority of seats in the Legislature.

Unless the courts intervene as they did in the case of congressional maps drawn by the state Legislature and possibly North Hempstead.

Mineola Mayor Paul Pereira, along with Town Republicans David Adhami and Dennis Walsh, filed a federal complaint against the Town in October, claiming that the newly confirmed North Hempstead redistricting maps

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are unconstitutional.

The gerrymandered map created by the county Legislature in 2013 and now closely replicated by the map proposed by the Republican appointees in 2022 created large obstacles to good representation.

The five Democrats appointed to the districting commission claim the map proposed by Republicans discriminates against minorities — a claim denied by Republicans. The Democrats have called for the creation of five districts designed to favor minorities, who now make up 40% of Nassau’s population.

The Republican map and, to a lesser extent the two Democratic maps, are also comprised of misshapen districts that divide communities into two, three or even four pieces.

Roslyn is and would remain in four districts under the map proposed by Republican commission members. This would include districts currently represented by Democratic County legislators Joshua Lafazan and Arnold Drucker that stretch up to 14 miles from the Suffolk County border to parts of Roslyn.

The map proposed by Democratic commission members are not much better, leaving Roslyn divided into three

REPORTERS

districts and residents wondering who their representative is.

In September 2020, Nassau Democratic legislators proposed the creation of a redistricting commission to determine legislative boundaries after the completion of the 2020 census.

Democrats said the proposal, which included a timeline in which the process would take place and the appointment of a special master in case the commission missed its deadlines, was intended to create a fair and representative distribution of legislators.

But county Republican legislators ignored their request, opting for the 10-member temporary districting advisory committee with five Republican and five Democratic appointees.

To no one’s surprise, the commission failed to reach an agreement at its deadline on Monday night, voting 5-5 on party lines on two plans — one submitted by the Democrats and one by the Republicans.

This now leaves it up to a county Legislature with its 11-8 Republican advantage to decide on the new map.

David Mejias, who led the Democrats on the commission, predicted Monday night that this ensures that redistricting would end up in court, cost-

ing taxpayers millions of dollars.

To which Redistricting Chairman Francis Moroney, a Republican appointed by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, essentially said bring it on.

When asked several years ago about an independent redistricting commission, Nassau County Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello (R-New Hyde Park) said, “It would be as political when you have a nonpartisan commission redrawing the lines as it is now.”

This is nonsense.

Langworthy had it right in February when he said redistricting should be taken out of the hands of politicians, who left to their own devices, will do what’s best for themselves and their party over the interests of residents.

Perhaps, Nassau Republicans will take to heart what their state party leader said in February. But don’t count on it.

Residents of both parties should raise their voices now in opposition to a district map that will inevitably be drawn to deny the will of the people.

Without the intervention of the courts, the alternative is to live with a map that will likely determine elections before they take place for the next 10 years.

Robert Pelaez, Brandon Duffy, Steven Keehner COLUMNIST Karen Rubin

Democrats should give up the blame game

There is no doubt that the recent election was a mixed blessing for the state Democratic party. Kathy Hochul won her first term by a narrow margin but she won and made history as the state’s first woman governor.

Aside from the victory of the candidates for governor, attorney general and state comptroller, the party suffered serious losses in four House races and a number of state legislative seats.

When a party takes it on the chin, the first response by the naysayers is to find someone to blame for all the bad news.

A handful of party progressives have concentrated their ire on Jay Jacobs, the state chairman. There is no doubt that there is plenty of blame to go around, but it isn’t Jay Jacobs’ fault that the party was hammered at the polls.

The first group that deserves some blame is the New York State Assembly and Senate. They concocted a set of maps that was overly greedy and was an invitation to being nullified.

They were trying to create as many Democratic House seats as possible and in the end; their plan was an invitation to a judicial rebuff. Once the plan was nullified, a special master was appointed and the new district lines became a party disaster.

The second group that deserves their share of the blame are the party progressives. The members of the two houses who fought serious efforts to get changes in the bail reform law, gave the Republicans a tailor-made issue to use against all of the Democrats.

Gov. Hochul was able to get some important changes during the budget process, but the progressives battled against any major overhaul. One Assembly member threatened to go on a hunger strike if any changes were made.

Some Democrats self-destructed by making faulty choices on where to run for re-election. The most well-known case is that of Congressman Shaun Patrick Maloney.

Maloney chose to run in a brand new

JERRY KREMER Kremer’s Corner

district as opposed to staying in a district where he was well known.

Choosing unknown turf is a risky choice and he lost by a wide margin. The irony of this defeat is that Maloney is the chair of the Democratic Congressional

Campaign Committee, which had many victories on Election night thanks to Maloney’s hard work.

Another group that is worthy of criticism are the well-paid consultants that are supposed to guide the candidates with messaging and strategy.

Most of these people failed to pay attention to the Republican message on crime and only figured out their candidates were in trouble in the closing days of the battle. That is not the role of the state chairman who makes suggestions and is often overridden by consultants who think they possess all of the wisdom necessary to win.

Some credit must go to the state Republican Party which undertook a court fight to invalidate the Assembly and Senate redistricting plan. The party commenced an action in an upstate court anticipating a more friendly forum.

The court threw out the plan and the Democrats wound up with a plan that gave the Republicans a better chance to gain some seats. That plan resulted in

the loss of four Democratic Congressional seats. New York’s new plan gave the Republicans a greater opportunity to take over the House.

Many of the critics of Jay Jacobs really don’t understand the role of the chair. Aaron Boone is the Yankee’s manager. He puts together the lineup card and then hopes that his players will perform. He doesn’t pitch or hit.

The party chair helps with candidate recruitment and raises a great deal of money for the party candidates. He consults with leaders all over the state and relies on county chairs to get out the vote and produce winners. He can try to shape the message but often the candidates insist on doing their own thing.

Looking back over the months leading up to Election Day, it is obvious that a lot of bad decisions were made by many people and the Democrats took a beating.

Going forward, the critics should pay attention to the issues that hurt the party and clean up the mess that was not caused by any one person.

THE BACK ROAD

American patriots voted for democracy

The highly anticipated, dreaded “red wave” failed to crash down on America’s shores after the Nov. 8 midterm elections.

Genuinely surprised political commentator-comedian Bill Maher quipped, “How about the American people! I didn’t have faith. They proved me wrong. At the end of the day, they looked at democracy like the catalytic converter. They’re not quite sure what it is, but they know it would be bad if it got stolen.”

Democracy!

Former Federal Judge J. Michael Luttig, an appointee of former President George H. W. Bush, referred to the 2022 midterms as “the most important elections in our nation’s history and indisputably a resounding victory for American democracy.”

The people have spoken.

A multitude of American patriots let it be known, peaceably through the ballot box, that they are fed up with the open embrace and mainstreaming of election denialism, white nationalism and political violence.

An undeniable hallmark of Donald J. Trump’s presidential legacy is lifting the taboo against exercising race-based hate and political violence.

He did so by a steady a drip, drip, drip of direct messaging (“Fine people on both sides”), inciting violence (“Stand back and stand by”) and polluting democracy (“I alone can fix the system”).

But it didn’t begin with Trump and it won’t end with him. “The way in which our primary system, gerrymandering and social networks have coalesced to steadily poison our national dialogue,” said commentator Thomas Friedman, “polarize our society into political tribes and erode the twin pillars of our democracy: truth and trust.”

Trump knowingly nudged it along, animated the hate and sanctioned its uninhibited expression.

What the midterms revealed is that information matters.

Kitchen table economics and local crime statistics were pushed hard by the GOP . Critical issues for sure. However, they were advanced only to ramp up fear and anxiety; a “scared straight” approach to campaigning. What was left out was the broader context of election denialism, voter suppression and political violence, all aimed at undermining democracy.

Context counts.

Voters of all ages and backgrounds proved they are more sophisticated than to be taken for granted and held hostage by the narrow political focus of a selfserving few, to decide what kind of nation they want to live in and raise their children.

The preservation of democracy, America’s crown jewel, requires mindful attention, careful cultivation and eternal vigilance.

On Nov. 8, 2022, American voters

ANDREW MALEKOFF

The Back Road

demonstrated that they are up to the task, aware, awake and ready to act — to vote.

Like it or not, the United States is going to continue to get browner, not whiter; more diverse, not less. We need to be more thoughtful about how to create enduring coalitions among various groups, not ephemeral, politically expedient or transactional alliances only, but enduring relationships based on shared values and aspirations.

We need always to seek common ground to counter polarization that only leads to the kind of government that discourages and squashes individual freedom of thought and action.

It is only through shared human values and a commitment to united efforts that will we deter the ongoing amplification and advancement of hateful ideologies.

We would do well to consider Martin Luther King Jr’s notion of the beloved community, a community in which everyone is cared for, absent of poverty, hunger, and hate.

We must protect and preserve our most profound guard rail — free and fair elections — and the right to an unimpeded, confidential say-so with our consciences in the privacy of the ballot box.

We cannot allow miscreants posing as government officials to orchestrate the overthrow of a democratically certified election through lies, threats and intimidation.

In recent years, the fever of hateful division has been accentuated by a series of mutating viruses with names like Proud Boys, Oath Keepers and QAnon, all of which were emboldened and encouraged by their super-spreader expresident.

We must continue to seek justice and accountability and, especially so if we are to remain a democracy in the aftermath of Jan. 6, when people died and more than 140 law enforcement officers were injured. Some permanently.

We must actively reject political violence and reinforce the stigma against it.

Inflation? Crime? Gun Reform? Re-

productive Rights? Education? Climate Justice? National Defense? Health Care? Yes. Yes! Certainly. All of the above! Yet, to be clear, nothing will be fixed if we no longer have a functioning democracy.

Extremism is on the rise. The lunatic fringe group known as QAnon uses the slogan, “Where we go one, we go all,” as they openly encourage stockpiling guns in preparation for war against their fellow Americans. Donald Trump opened the basement door for them to step out into the light of day and they’re not going away anytime soon.

Timothy Snyder, in his remarkable pocket-sized book “On Tyranny,” recalled that democracy failed in Europe in the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s. He expresses concern that it is weakening not only in Europe but in many other locales in the world today.

“It is that history and experience that reveals to us the dark range of our possible futures,” says Snyder. “A nationalist will say that “it can’t happen here,” which is the first step towards disaster. A patriot says that it could happen here, but we will stop it.”

American patriots – voters — slowed it down in the 2022 midterms.

Thank you!

FUN FACT: A catalytic converter helps to reduce airborne pollutants that could harm people as well as the environment. Democracy is a way of governing that depends on the will of the people.

Dem’s redistricting plan is lone legal map

The Nassau County Republicans seem determined to commit the same act of arrogance as the state Legislature Democrats did in their fatal attempt at gerrymandering. But then again, Republicans have proved themselves time and time again to be impervious to shame or hypocrisy.

But the issues raised by the Democrats at the Nov. 16 public hearing of the Temporary District Advisory Commission on the Nassau County’s proposed redistricting plan to draw the lines for its 19 legislative districts – and in the dozens of public comments including by civil rights and voting rights activists and attorneys — became manifestly clear.

The Democrats insist that based on demographic changes – and the Voting Rights Law and the state’s own Voting Rights Law – there should be five “majority minority” districts where minorities have the ability to elect a representative of their own choosing.

Republicans are proposing to keep four of the 19 districts. (The minority population has seen the greatest growth in Nassau County in the decade, but while “white-only” are 57.2% of the population, they control 79% of districts).

The Republican mapmaker, David Schaeffer of Skyline Consulting, (hired a week before and kept secret from the Democrats) argued that the districts he drew met the criteria because they were

“compact and contiguous” – an absurdity easily seen, even with the “blank” maps provided so that no one could see exactly where their streets would fall in which districts when they contort and in some cases cross multiple towns.

Democratic Commissioner Michael Pernick argued, “It’s black and white in law,” to which Schaeffer said, “I’m not talking about law.” He also said that he did not bother to incorporate the public comments from the eight previous public hearings, so what were they for?

Chairman Francis X. Moroney (appointed by County Executive Bruce Blakeman) made feeble – even false – arguments to justify the Republican map, the chief one being that their proposal kept intact the “cores” – that is, the 2013 districts (which Democrats argue were illegal when the map was gerrymandered then, and that the new map only exacerbates it), and that the Democrats’ alternative start from scratch. Indeed, since the 2013 map, the state made partisan gerrymandering explicitly illegal.

The Republicans also insist that they adhere closest to the “one-person, onevote” mandate that means that districts have to be within 5% population size of each other. But as the mapmaking experts have demonstrated, there are many ways to make the districts come out even. They are using this as an excuse to quite literally crack, stack and pack districts to

KAREN RUBIN View Point

get the voting outcome they want (the definition of partisan and racial gerrymandering).

And it is not even true to claim the new Republican map is faithful to the “cores,” since too many districts (communities) are split in three, four, five parts, without any regard to longstanding “communities of interest.”

In answer to the Democrats’ charge that the Republican map defies the state’s John Lewis Voting Rights law, the Republican mapmaker Schaeffer actually said, “We would wait to see what happens. I don’t know how to apply the law The starting point of the map is irrelevant”

OUR TOWN

and “the map from 10 years ago is legal until somebody finds it is not legal.”

“Everyone here has a stake in what happens,” Pernick asserted. It is about equity, about undoing decades of institutional racism in Nassau County, America’s first suburb We are here to insure people in these communities discriminated against all these years have the representation to undo [the harm]. We cannot ignore the fact of severe segregation, discrimination in Nassau County (is) the result of gerrymandered maps on the county and state level. The [census] data show there should be five majority/minority districts and there are only three. That means you have 3/5ths of the representation you deserve. Does that sound familiar? Is it right?” he said.

The Republican proposal, Pernick declared, is “racially discriminatory, full stop; violates federal Voting Rights Act, the John Lewis Act of New York, unlawfully dilutes the black and Latino vote, violates the Equal Protection clause, and is an unlawful racial gerrymander.”

For example, it “packs” District 1 (that is, concentrating minority voters into one district so their voice is effectively negated) and “cracks Nassau’s largest Asian community, placing Asian communities in New Hyde Park into District 9, and Asian communities in North New Hyde Park, Manhasset Hills and Herricks into District 10. In contrast, the Demo-

crats’ proposed redistricting plan unifies Nassau’s largest Asian community into a single influence district.

The Republican proposal also violates the requirements for creating districts that are as compact and as contiguous as possible. For example, it contorts District 14 into a “bizarre and highly irregular shape, crossing into all three towns. It is impossible to drive through District 14 without crossing into other districts,” according to the Power Point presentation at the Nov. 16 public meeting.

Similarly, District 2 has a “bizarre and highly irregular shape that crosses into all three towns; it “only connects New Cassel to Uniondale with a tiny three-block chuck of land in Salisbury “intentionally splitting an otherwise whole community (Salisbury).”

The Republican proposal for District 3 is so bizarrely constructed that “no roads connect this district. The only way to travel from one part of the district to another is to cross a creek (Hook Creek), a park (north Woodmere Park) and a golf course (North Woodmere Golf Course).”

District 9, as proposed by the Republicans, “is a bizarrely shaped district that slices through Searingtown and Roslyn Heights to connect Plandome and Munsey Park to communities in Williston Park, East Williston and Mineola,” the Democrats said.

Bitcoin, crypto and the world of tomorrow

Just like beads and fur trading, coins and cash are fast becoming a thing of the past. Way back in 1972 Liza Minelli and Joel Grey were good enough to direct our attention to the importance of money as they sang “Money, money, money, money, money, money, and money makes the world go round” in the Oscarwinning film “Cabaret.”

In this scene, Liza would throw coins into her nicely revealed bosom and Joel would toss coins into his underwear as they sang “A mark, a yen, a buck or a pound is all that makes the world go round. That clinking, clanking sound can make the world go round.” Charming song but, alas, things like real coins that make real sounds as they jingle in your pocket or real cash that can be held and exchange for goods and services may soon become a thing of the past.

If you’re old and slow like me, you may not believe this but to prove to you what the future will be like, just take a trip to Seoul Korea and try to use cash when you buy a Starbucks. I assure you

will be looked at as if you are from another century and will be politely told “Sorry, sir, we no longer accept cash. Please use your smart Phone or a credit card.”

Welcome to the brave new world of cryptocurrency where every monetary interaction is digitized, recorded and centralized into the brain of Big Brother.

In order to prepare you for what is surely to come, let me give you a crash course on cryptocurrency. Many believe that Bitcoin and cryptocurrency were started by an eccentric Japanese guy with the name Satoshi Takemoto back in 2008, but the process started long before that. Way back in the 1990s big banking and the National Security Agency were already establishing plans to create digital currency and were the first to use words like “electronic coins” and “digital wallets.”

At this point we have a whole new language in banking with words like Idioms of Use, Fungibility, Mining of Bitcoins, Black Chains, crypto hash and lightweight vs. full clients. And if all this sounds confusing, well you’re not alone.

Warren Buffet admits he hesitates to get involved with Bitcoin investing because he does not understand this domain. This reminds me of the message a psychoanalyst gave me when I was in training and we discussed investing. He told me to only invest in companies whose products I used.

Bitcoin currency relates to some-

DR. TOM FERRARO Our Town

thing called the mining process. Now you may think this is like mining in the old days of the Gold Rush. We all love Jack London’s novel “Call of the Wild” where the protagonist and his trusted dog Buck were up in the Yukon mining for gold. But, forgive me if I misstate this process. Block chain mining for Bitcoins is an affair performed by a warehouse full of super computers, which are performing an accounting and regulatory function to insure the integrity of the process. Kind of like the bricks and the steel vaults in banks but not.

Whether we understand this new form of currency or not, it has arrived and probably it’s here to stay. About 43% of American men between 18 and 29 have invested in cryptocurrency and

that’s a very good predictor of the future. None of this is old news. Everyone recalls the 1997 Academy Award winning movie “Good Will Hunting,” which marked the arrival of the both Matt Damon and Ben Affleck and also starred Robin Williams.

It was a sweet film about a young underachieving janitor employed by MIT who solved a blackboard math problem that none of MIT students could solve. This blue collar genius impressed the MIT math professor sufficiently that he offered him employment. What most do not remember was that the employment opportunity was with the National Securities Agency to work on encryption algorithms and code breaking to be used in their new cryptocurrency project.

Some say that Bitcoin and cryptocurrency is like a religion in that you either believe in it or do not. Perhaps Warren Buffet is still a non-believer and whether that analogy is valid or not, Bitcoin and cryptocurrency are here to stay. This is the way progress works and progress is unstoppable. Just like pay phones disappeared and gave way to cell phones, which gave way to smart phones.

In 1,000 BC, people used bartering but by 700 BC in China, coins were minted as a quicker means of exchange and then came banknotes and paper money. Manhattan Island was sold, purchased with $24 worth of beads and trinkets. And all of this finally led to Bitcoins. The irony is that one of the

attractions of cryptocurrency is that it is currency with no centralized control by banking or government. It is supposed to be Anonymous Electronic Cash as per a white paper by the NSA in 1996. But the fact that the NSA wrote this paper makes one wonder if Bitcoin is not the penultimate entrance into surveillance society.

My biggest concern, however, is how Bitcoin will affect the film industry. With the disappearance of cash will come the disappearance of all those great heist flicks that center on the theft of cash.

Remember film classics like “Heat” with Robert DeNiro, “The Italian Job “ with Mark Wahlberg, “Dog Day Afternoon” with Al Pacino, “The Town” starring Ben Affleck and “Bonnie and Clyde” with Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty. These will never happen again.

OK, we will still have war films with Arnold “The Terminator” Schwarzenegger or Tom Cruise, but these guys are getting old. We will still have romantic comedies using Jennifer Aniston, Ben Stiller or Owen Wilson, but that’s about it. Who could have ever predicted that the coming of Bitcoin would create a crisis of creativity for the film industry?

Perhaps they will do a sequel to “Cabaret” with a song called “Digital” and lyrics that go“Digital makes the world go around, the world go around the world go around, digital makes the world go around, of that its plan to see.”

EARTH MATTERS

N. Hempstead fights for environment, Part 3

Thanksgiving is around the corner and winter is right next door. Monarch butterfly and tree conservation may feel out of place in conversation as the temperatures drop below freezing and the days darken earlier, and we find ourselves spending more time indoors than out. But how we handle nature’s hibernation affects spring’s reawakening and summer’s blooming.

Since 2018, the Town of North Hempstead has taken the monarch butterfly pledge. This involves committing to perform several specific actions to help the monarch butterfly survive. According to the Town, the monarch butterfly population is declining in the wild due to loss of habitat, agricultural practices, development and cropland conversion and eradication of milkweed.

Climate change is increasing the monarch butterfly’s decline by disrupting their migration timing, which is carefully attuned to temperature changes and wind patterns. Extreme and intense weather events like drought, hurricanes, and flooding destroy their habitat. Town residents are encouraged to help save the monarch butterfly by building welcoming gardens for monarchs at their homes.

Central to the garden should be the milkweed plant, the sole host plant

for the monarch. In the fall, the best thing to do to care for the milkweed in your garden, and prepare it for the monarch’s arrival in the spring, is nothing. While it may appear the plants have died and are no longer lovely to observe, they are still working, preparing for their regrowth. In the fall, their pods explode and send their seeds floating to the ground where they find rest in the soil. They should be left there, undisturbed by raking and clearing of leaves. They need to experience the cold and cover of snow to get ready to germinate and grow in the spring and blossom in the summer to host the next generation of monarch butterflies returning from their winter homes.

The Town also recommends planting native nectar plants like Joe-Pye weed and goldenrod in addition to milkweed and provides a list of other native plants available at https://www.northhempsteadny. gov/filestorage/16255/18642/Native_Plant_list-_Updated.pdf. Another recommendation is to avoid use of pesticides, which will harm the monarch butterfly as well as every other living thing in the area. For more ideas on how to welcome monarch butterflies to your yard, see the Town’s list of recommendations at https://www. northhempsteadny.gov/monarchs.

LYNN CAPUANO Earth Matters

Tree conservation is also highlighted by the Town of North Hempstead through its sustainability programs and another effort that requires our attention as fall approaches winter. The Town has been recognized as a “Tree City USA” since 2011 and informs its residents of the human and environmental benefits of trees. These include, air quality, human health, stormwater absorption and cleansing, wildlife habitat, protection, roosting, food, and storage, cooling and saving energy, absorption of greenhouse gases, higher property values and beauty. The Town has committed to planting

more trees, especially native trees, and has a “tree code” detailing the importance of preserving existing trees.

As the trees shed their leaves, we may not realize that those leaves can be put to good use, caring for the tree through the winter. Pile the leaves around the base of the tree, leaving a few inches of space between the trunk and the leaves. The leaves serve as a blanket for the tree roots, protecting them from winter weather. They also provide excellent habitat to all sorts of small animals and insects that will help the leaves decompose and provide the tree with additional nutrition. Leaving the leaves can help hold moisture in the ground for the tree, which can be more susceptible to damage after dry conditions like the ones we experienced this year. Moister soil stays warmer longer, further helping your tree roots survive the winter.

Lest you think there is little you can do for the environment in the colder months, the Town offers tips for sustainable living that are not seasonal. For example, under the heading of reducing waste, the Town suggests finding a creative way to repurpose something before throwing it away or recycling it. Other suggestions include donating old items, composting and stopping junk mail. For more information, see the list at https://northhemp-

steadny.gov/reducewaste.

Under saving and protecting water, some of the suggestions include:• Don’t leave the faucet running while brushing your teeth or washing the dishes• Take quick showers instead of baths• Keep drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the faucet until water is cold• Wash fruits and vegetables in a basin and use a brush instead of letting the faucet run• Thaw foods in the refrigerator overnight instead of running them under water• Scrape dishes, instead of rinsing, before putting them in the dishwasher• Repair leaks in faucets, toilets and outdoor hoses and irrigation systems• Don’t flush chemicals or medications down the drain or toilet• Don’t put anything down storm drains except water

There are also tips for saving energy by walking instead of driving, installing LED lightbulbs, turning off lights, unplugging electronics, and only doing full loads of wash.

I hope we’ll all follow the Town’s lead and take our own sustainability pledges and follow the Town’s recommendations for sustainable living. After this week’s reporting on COP 27 (Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), it seems the least we can do.

Labor to thank for L.I. Rail Road modernization

They showed up day after day through a deadly pandemic to deliver progress for their fellow Long Islanders, and now we all get to reap the benefits.

The new 9.8-mile Third Track is fully operational between Floral Park and Hicksville. Every grade crossing along that stretch has been either been eliminated or had its railroad bridge raised so riders will no longer be inconvenienced by delays due to over height tricks crashing into them.

And without crossing gates that

stop traffic multiple times each day, cars and trucks will no longer sit idling for extended periods of time, leading to cleaner air and quieter neighborhoods.

These benefits, combined with the opening of Grand Central Madison later this year, will allow the LIRR to significantly increase service across all 11 branches – by 58% during the morning rush and by 62% in the evening peak. And reverse commuting is finally going to be a realistic alternative, with peak service from Manhattan increasing by a

whopping 65%.

This is huge for Long Island businesses, who will now have access to a much larger labor pool.

Meantime, commuters to East Midtown will be able to save up to 40 minutes a day on their trips by going straight to Grand Central, where they’ll find a beautiful new eighttrack terminal – the first new rail facility of its size to be opened in the United States since the early 1950s.

It’s a stunning space that proves the men and women of labor can deliver big things.

Look at what we’ve already done in Penn Station. The first phase of the new LIRR concourse opened last month to rave reviews. It’s practically unrecognizable: the corridors are now double the width, illuminated ceilings have been raised to 18 feet high, and there are now multiple high-res displays with track information and new way finding signs.

And by early next year, the concourse will have added four brand new elevators that increase accessibility and a new ventilation system to bring in more fresh air.

Next up is the rest of the existing Penn Station.

Gov. Hochul has unveiled plans for a complete renovation that transforms the dungeon we all know and tolerate to a spacious and light-filled station that we can all be proud to use.

Union workers will be there every step of the way, as we always have been, to keep Long Island and New York moving full speed ahead.

Anthony Simon General Chairman, SMART Union

22-year tax relief for 733-741 Middle Neck Rd.

Dear Members of the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency Board:

I have written to you several times about this application, in cogent and persuasive detail.

My fellow residents by the hundreds have signed letters to you and a petition. The fact that Gesher persists on your agenda is a mystery.

This application puts the NCIDA in unison with the developer against all the relevant studies of geography

and hydrology, against the residents’ understanding of our own community, and against the rest of the knowledgeable world’s awareness that development today has to have a very different definition than it used to.

There are two overriding facts: 1. Great Neck is a peninsula, and 2. Our peninsula (as well as our country) faces a looming fresh drinking water crisis.

Are there other relevant issues? Of course. Traffic backs up full blocks

at the lights on the feeder roads of our peninsula. Is this important? Yes. Our parks, our schools, our fire departments, are they increasingly burdened by poor decision-making from elected officials playing politics? Yes.

But geography and fresh drinking water are at the top of the list.

The mayor of our Village of Great Neck lectures the few residents who suffer his public meetings. He says our mass movement to prevent this

unwarranted tax benefit undermines him.

The mayor, Pedram Bral, presumes to say we are in his way. He has also called for a Republican “bloodbath.” I am a lifelong registered Democrat married for a half century to a lifelong registered Republican and my husband and I both recognize our community and our world need new thinking.

Below are some of my previous letters to you in light of the fact that

you are a board of members old and new. One of my letters (The Secrets Hidden in Our Tax Bills) was carried in the Great Neck News and then lifted to social media via the primary chat rooms here.

I would like to be able to thank you, but first you have to do something worthy of my gratitude. There is too much to lose here.

Rebecca Rosenblatt Gilliar Great Neck

READERS WRITE

Give Thanks W

I entrust myself to thought, what the gray matter in my head nurtures. The words that refract through its crystal are clear enough if not for posterity, like rain beating against a window.

But how do I explain your beauty, the marvelous question beheld since college? What the heart endures and resonates, even this hour is for posterity recorded countless times.

You never turn a deaf ear. You as mother, and the birth of children, giving into their light. How can I explain the beauty of your face, swayed by the rhythm of breath that spills my thought like blossoms, pulling me through dark places. How you hold my hand that no one picks up.

To the smallness of my thought, I know mercy. I know love. The wind through a summer meadow. Night’s stars radiate from a time before I was born sowing their wonder.

How snow falls like stars, and the rainbow breaks through after a storm like the sun. I entrust myself completely to your loveliness, having learned as long as there is anything there is love.

Stephen Cipot Garden City Park

So now you complain about the cooked election for judges? Where were your reporters and your editorial writers before Election Day? Asleep and rewriting press releases.

First, the political bosses technically don’t elect most of the judicial nominees: They are selected by delegates to “Judicial Conventions” held after the state party primaries by delegates who are elected by the respective party voters.

They are rarely challenged, so there are very few elections for them. On the Island, there have

Why didn’t voters support neighbors?

hy did voters fail to give majority support to their neighbors, Tom DiNapoli, Robert Zimmerman, Anna Kaplan and Chuck Schumer?

Were their opponents offering solutions to perceived problems like crime on the NYC subways or inflation and fuel costs which are all declining?

Why weren’t the points made regarding freedom of religion and a women’s right to choose? Confronting hate and jealousy paramount in our decision-making? Are these points less important than what goes on in New York City? Are we that comfortable in our environ-

ment?

Why would our community abandon the very people they supported in the past? Do they not value the same values you hold? Have they not earned your support for reelection? Have they not worked hard enough to have your continued support?

Have they personally failed you as elected officials in their respective positions as U.S. senator and majority leader, as comptroller of State of New York, as your New York State senator?

As a resident of Nassau County, what occurs in New York City is beyond the provenance of those that represent us as our elected officials.

Further, in the case of state Senate, they are only one of over 60 other elected senators.

Freedom was on the line! Freedom of religion, freedom of choice.

Democracy was on the line. If your freedom is taken away, what are you left with?

Most of the United States chose freedom. Sadly the majority of Great Neck turned their backs on Freedom.

Our country is based on liberty, freedom and choice.

Charles Schneider Great Neck

All racial discrimination wrong

The old “Jim Crow South” discrimination against people of color has moved north to discriminate against whites’ Caucasian American sign language. Interpreter Keith Wann for the Broadway production of “The Lion King” was fired by the nonprofit Theater Development Fund. They are responsible for providing staff to perform Broadway shows with American sign language interpreters.

The nonprofit claims that only an African-American interpreter was appropriate for this play. Skin color should never be used in the hiring or firing of employees. The same holds true for ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, religious or political beliefs. Could

only Jews appear in “Fiddler on the Roof,” Mormons in “The Book of Mormon” or Italians in “The Godfather”?

Sen. Chuck Schumer proudly boasted in campaign TV commercials that he brought New York several hundred million federal dollars as a result of COVID-19. These funds were supposed to protect both Broadway theaters from closing and its employees losing their jobs. They were never meant to be used in discrimination by “The Lion King” producers and Theater Development Fund.

Will Schumer speak out on behalf of fired American sign language interpreter Keith Wann whose only crime was being born white? What about Attorney General Mer-

rick Garland, along with the city, state and federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commissions? Both Albany and City Hall offer taxpayers subsidies worth several hundred million to Broadway. Will Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams say anything?

The late civil rights icon Rev. Martin Luther King said, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation wher they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” He never would have approved of reverse discrimination based on race.

Larry Penner Great Neck

late in selection of judges

been a handful of primaries in the Conservative Party as well as in New York City by Reform Democrats challenging the official party picks.

Consider a few outrages from the Nov. 8 ballot:

Frank Tinari, 68, a former Suffolk County Conservative Party Chairman, was cross-endorsed and will become a Supreme Court justice in January. Due to the state constitution, he won’t be able to serve past 70, which will present another vacancy.

Lisa Cairo, 45, the daughter of Nassau County Republican Chairman Joe Cairo, who is also the

highly paid chairman of Nassau OTB, will shift from Family Court to Supreme Court. And the Democratic spouse of her former law partner, Stephen Schlesinger, is Judge Caryn Fink, 55, in Nassau County Court.

Fink had been law secretary to Helene Gugerty, 59, who was just re-elected to Nassau County Court, although she has been an acting Supreme Court Justice.

Her spouse, David Gugerty, 60, already sits as a Supreme Court justice. Before that, he was Democratic Nassau County Elections commissioner. So

at the Gugerty home, it’s all in the family.

Do we need to continue?

The system is completely cooked. It’s time to eliminate judicial elections, have the best lawyers screened and appointed.

But this will never happen so long as the bosses control Albany and the county parties and use judicial nominations as a vehicle to generate cash and candidates.

David Zielenziger Great Neck

FDA Foundation achievement awards

Nassau County Legislator Arnold W. Drucker (D -Plainview) joined with the Federal Drug Agents Foundation at the North Hills Country Club in Manhasset on Monday, Nov. 7. There, he had the honor of presenting Lifetime Achievement Awards to outstanding leaders in law enforcement.

Lifetime Achievement Award honorees included John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director, FBI; NYPD Chief of

James W. Essig, and Francis J. Russo, Director of Field Operations of Customs & Border Protection.

“I am in constant awe of the heroic accomplishments that our partners in law enforcement make on a daily basis in our national battle against the scourge of drugs,” Drucker said. “Congratulations to all of the evening’s honorees for a job well done — and thank you to Federal Drug Agents Foundation Chairman Dennis J. Schnur for his stewardship of this wonderful organization.”

FCA raises $180K to aid families

years. “Covid-19 put a giant spotlight on the preexisting disparities and inequalities that exist among Long Island communities.,” he said. “Mental health issues came to the forefront, with an increase in suicide, attempted suicide and fatal overdoses, after several years of gaining headway. People are struggling with the cost of childcare, medication, fuel.”

“In spite of these considerable challenges,” Reynolds continued, “We are confident we can help fill many of those gaps by rolling up our sleeves and reaching into our hearts. We do hard things at FCA and we tackle these problems. We see miracles every day.”

One of Nassau County’s oldest and largest nonprofit health and human services organizations, FCA provides critical support and services to more than 30,000 Long Islanders annually.

Recently, FCA hosted its 2022 Fall Harvest Celebration at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City and raised more than $180,000 to support services for needy children, seniors and families on Long Island.

Honored this year was gun safety activist Linda Beigel Schulman, the mother of Scott J. Beigel, the teacher and cross-country coach who sacrificed his life to save the lives of 31 of his students at the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School massacre in Parkland, Florida.

FCA also recognized Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder for his life-saving programs and initiatives which have helped ensure officer and public safety and helped bring crime in Nassau County to historic lows.

Nassau Community College professor and FCA Board member Donna T. Bacon, was also honored for her deep dedication to the education, empowerment and health promotion of underserved individuals and communities on Long Island.

Addressing those in attendance, Jeffrey L. Reynolds, president and CEO of FCA acknowledged the societal challenges exacerbated by the events of the last several

Reynolds firmly holds to the notion of lived experience to help those in crisis. While acknowledging the importance of FCA’s highly trained professionals, he added that “We believe that the folks closest to our vexing problems are often the closest to the solutions. We hire people with lived experience, who have walked the road themselves, and come out the other side to want to help those on the road behind them.”

Ryan Kiser, program manager for the THRIVE Recovery Center in Westbury spoke to the audience about his long-term recovery. “Six years ago, I didn’t think I was worthy of a real life.

Substances ruled my life; I was in despair and suffering. Thankfully, at the age of 32, homeless and living in a car, I finally heard the voices that had been telling me that I was worthy and gave it another try.

I found freedom and liberation from 20 years of addiction. I stopped sticking in the past and started connecting with people, and now I get to do that every day in my job at THRIVE. Seeing lives and families change for the better is priceless and keeps me in sound mind and body.”

Attendees included local government and business leaders, donors, beneficiaries, and friends.

All proceeds from the Fall Harvest Celebration will help to enhance FCA’s programs and services for Long Island’s most vulnerable children, families, seniors and communities. For more information or to make a donation, please contact Chief Development Officer & Vice President of Strategic Advancement Paige O’Brien at POBrien@fcali.org or visit www.fcali.org/donate.

Glen Cove Hospital to open $11M rehabilitation unit

Glen Cove Hospital today announced the opening of its $11 million, 15,500 square-foot, physical medicine and rehabilitation unit specializing in treating patients with neurological conditions such as brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and stroke.

Located on the third floor, the new 28-bed, acute-care rehabilitation unit has 12 beds designated for patients with Parkinson’s disease.

There are 24 private rooms and two double rooms. The innovative short-term Parkinson’s disease rehab program involves multidisciplinary, targeted interventions to help patients improve function and independence.

“The new state-of-the-art physical medicine rehabilitation unit was designed to provide a holistic therapeutic environment sensitive to the needs of patients with neurological deficits,” said Kerri Anne Scanlon, executive director at Glen Cove Hospital. “Individualized care is coordinated by a team of highly specialized rehabilitation medicine physicians, rehab nurses, specialists and therapists, to help patients reach their highest level of function and quality of life.”

Scanlon said the modern rehab unit was designed to have a spa-like

atmosphere that features soothing paint colors, accent tiles, artworks and lighting to create calming environments for patients with diverse neurological needs. All spaces include age-friendly features for older adults such as large wall clocks, handicapaccessible restrooms, nonslip flooring, handrails among other elements.

New features of the rehabilitation unit include:

• A main nursing station equipped with telemetry to provide continuous electronic monitoring of a patient’s cardiac condition, as needed, as

well as a satellite nursing station;• Three large quiet rooms to be used for private speech therapy, neuropsychology and consultations;• Two well-equipped physical therapy and occupational gyms with ample natural light;• A simulated apartment where patients can practice hands-on activities of daily living to prepare to return to home. It includes a bathroom, kitchen and a home-like bedroom;• A recreational and creative arts therapy space, which includes dance therapy.

In addition, the rehab unit will utilize virtual reality and gaming therapy

system to help patients in their therapeutic recovery, focusing on repetitive tasks in a fun and innovative way.

Patients wear a headset with sensors on their body that interact with the immersive virtual environment. Activities could include emphasizing strengthening, coordination, balance, postural control, visual-spatial skills, as well as cognitive skills such as memory and sequencing, command response and attention.

“Equipped with cutting-edge therapies, the new rehabilitation unit meets the growing needs of our patient community with complex, high-acuity brain and neurological disorders,” said Susan Maltster, chair of the hospital’s department of physical medicine and rehabilitation. “We are dedicated to providing the highest degree of quality, innovative care to our patients.”

Malster said the new rehab unit will include a unique Parkinson’s rehabilitation program led by neurorehabilitation physician Dr. Lyubov Rubin. It offers evidence-based specialty rehabilitation to people with Parkinson’s disease.

In addition to receiving physical, occupational, speech and cognitive

therapy, the use of dance therapy and virtual reality will aim to restore function lost by patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

The hospital’s rehabilitation units are located on three separate floors containing a total of 86 beds and approximately 57,500 square feet. In addition to the new rehab unit, other acute rehabilitation units provide a broad range of services to treat patients with conditions such as spinal cord injury, cancer, amputation and other orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions.

With the addition of the new unit, the comprehensive physical and medicine rehabilitation center expects to provide specialized care to over 1,950 patients annually.

U.S. News and World Report’s Best Hospital 2022-2023 list ranked Glen Cove Hospital 47th in the nation for its rehabilitation center, and Newsweek named Glen Cove Hospital among “American’s Best Physical Rehabilitation Center 2022.”

An acute care community hospital, Glen Cove Hospital has 247 beds. For more information about the hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation services, call: 516-674-7692.

Detectives

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEDERAL DRUG AGENTS FOUNDATION

NYPD Chief of Detectives James Essig along with NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell, NYPD Chief of Department Kenneth Corey and Nassau County Legislator Drucker in Manhasset on Monday, Nov. 7.

YOUR GUIDE TO THE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING

SUPPORTING COMEDY FOR A CAUSE IN ROSLYN

Comedy Inc., presents top headlining standup comedian Patty Rosborough, as part of its “Comedy for a Cause” series at The Roslyn Cellar on Friday, Dec. 9.

Patty Rosborough has been seen on Showtime and Comedy Central. She is the winner of the Ladies of Laughter comedy competition and the prestigious Charlie Awards. Her Joan Rivers-like style is guaranteed to have you bent over in stitches.

Comedy Inc. will generously donate a portion of the evening’s proceeds to Girls Rising, Inc. a not-forprofit 501c3 founded by the all-female rock band Antigone Rising.

Girls Rising’s mission is to provide kids with strong role models they can emulate and identify with in positions of leadership.

The evening will include a special musical performance by Shyezee, who recently performed at The Girls Rising Music Festival. Plus, there will be appearances by two other surprise guests.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to laugh for a good cause.

To purchase tickets, visit the Comedy Inc. website at https://comedyincpattyr.eventbrite.com

Gather ‘round the fire with the Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus (LIGMC) this holiday season for “A Visit from St. Nick and a Rockin’ Holiday!”

During concerts set for 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9 at Saint Francis Episcopal Church, 1692 Bellmore Ave., North Bellmore, 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, 380 Nicolls Road, Setauket/E. Setauket, and 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington, LIGMC will be serving yuletide storytime realness as it presents a wide-spanning musical revue of favorites and a fabulous glitter-flecked musical retelling of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

Tickets are $25 and are available for purchase at the door or online at http://www. ligmc.org/concerts.

“Since September, this merry band of choristers has been making our lists and checking them twice as we prepare to bring you a musical celebration of the most wonderful time of the year,” Bradley Meek, president of the LIGMC Board of Directors, said. “We hope that

you’ll be able to join us for the concerts that we crafted with the hopeful, joyous and sparkling spirit of the season in mind.”

It’s been a busy season for LIGMC, which will celebrate its 15th anniversary this spring. On Saturday, Nov. 5, LIGMC commemorated the 100th anniversary of LGBTQ icon Judy Garland’s birth with its “Over the Rainbow –Songs of Pride, Rainbows and Judy Garland” cabaret at the Sayville VFW Post 433. Following the conclusion of its concert series, LIGMC members are set to have a Manhattan encore on Tuesday, Dec. 13 when they are scheduled to perform selections from the concert at the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel.

“Not only is it always a joy to work with such an enthusiastic and committed group of singers, it’s especially rewarding to see our Chorus has continued to grow larger and stronger since we began performing again last winter,” LIGMC artistic director Jeanette Cooper said. “If you’ve never seen LIGMC perform, ‘A Visit from St. Nick and a Rockin’ Holiday’ is a great time to experience the eclectic and jubilant spirit that makes this group so special!”

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Housekeeping

The impact of reading on personal health

Books transport people to different times, provide a sense of escapism and introduce readers to different schools of thought. Individuals may read for pleasure and/or to expand their intellectual horizons.

It's important to note that reading also may help improve mental and physical health. With so much to gain from reading, now is a great time to embrace those book clubs, resolve to read more and explore how picking up a good book may be just what the doctor ordered.

Reduces stress

Immersing yourself in a story requires focus and concentration. According to researchers at the University of Sussex, it took just six minutes of reading for study participants to experience slower heart rates and reduced muscle tension.

Stress is one of the biggest threats to overall health, as the stress hormone cortisol can lead to inflammation in the body that may impede the immune system, according to Piedmont Health. Finding ways to reduce stress, including through activities like reading, is a win for anyone who wants to improve his or her health.

Impacts longevity

According to the 2016 study, "A chapter a day: Association of book reading with longevity," by Bavishi A, Slade M.D., reading exerts its influence on longevity by strengthening the mind. Reading positively impacts the way the brain creates synapses, optimizing neurological function. It also expands vocabulary, and helps with memory.

Changes the brain

A 2014 study published in Neuroreport determined reading involves a complex system of signaling and networking in the brain. As one's ability to read matures, these networks become stronger and more sophisticated. MRI scans found that brain connectivity increased throughout studied reading periods and for days afterward.

Increases empathy

Through literary fiction, readers are exposed to the situations, feelings and beliefs of others. This can help a person develop a greater ability to empathize with others, according to Healthiline.

Helps improve sleep

Reading is an effective way to wind down and relax before going to bed. It can be a positive nighttime ritual, provided one reads a paper book or utilizes an e-reader that is not backlit, as bright lights from digital devices may hinder sleep quality. In fact, doctors at the Mayo Clinic often suggest reading as part of a regular sleep routine.

Reduces depressive feelings

Individuals diagnosed with depression may feel isolated and estranged from other people. Books may reduce those feelings by helping a person temporarily escape his or her world into another. Also, books can serve as a common ground through which conversations over shared interests can begin with others.

Reading has many positive health benefits, which is why resolving to read more can be beneficial.

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How to make the most of Small Business Saturday

Gifts and gatherings take center stage come the holiday season. The holiday season begins on Thanksgiving and continues until New Year's Day. During that time, families gather to exchange gifts, break bread, celebrate their faith, and toast the year to come.

Savvy celebrants recognize the benefits of shopping early, and Small Business Saturday is a great chance to get in the holiday swing of things while supporting the local businesses that make communities so unique.

· Plan ahead. Small Business Saturday takes place each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States. Since its inception in 2010, Small Business Saturday has grown in popularity. American Express estimates that 110 million people participated in Small Business Saturday in 2019, which underscores how shoppers can benefit from planning ahead. Research sales and inventories of local businesses you want to support so you're ready to go come Saturday morning. Doing your homework can make it easier to navigate the crowds.

· Reserve a table at your favorite restaurant. A great meal with friends and family can be an

ideal way to cap off a day of shopping, and it's a great way to support a local restaurant. It's worth noting that a National Today survey of 1,000 shoppers that focused on Small Business Saturday shopping habits found that food and groceries were the most popular things to buy local. Saturday is traditionally a popular night to dine out, and that popularity is even greater on Small Business Saturday. Shoppers can ensure they aren't waiting for a table by booking a reservation in advance.

· Check your social media feeds. Many small businesses have recognized the value of communicating directly with consumers through their social media feeds. Throughout the day, shoppers can keep an eye on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn about special sales or events. In addition, shoppers can share their shopping experiences via their own feeds. Many small businesses rely on word-of-mouth from existing customers, so this can be another way to show your support for the establishments that call your community home.

Small Business Saturday is November 26th and it’s a great way to begin the holiday shopping season on the right foot.

The Floral Park Chamber of Commerce and I are excited to invite you to take part in Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26.

As I have said many times, my main objective as president of the Chamber of Commerce is to instill the civic responsibility of shopping locally in as many Floral Park Residents as possible. It is a win-win situation for everyone in our town.

Local businesses thrive when Floral Park Residents support them, which in turn entices more successful businesses to open shop in town, which in turn booms the town’s economy, which in turn raises Floral Park Resident’s property values.

It is imperative that Floral Park Residents along with their families and friends shop local and shop often to maintain this growth.

Destination Great Neck

Destination: GREAT NECK is a grassroots community organization founded by Janet Nina Esagoff, an attorney with her own eponymous Great Neck law firm in 2021, in response to the visible decline in economic activity on the Great Neck peninsula post-COVID.

Founding members of DGN include Michele Tabaroki, (owner of Confidanze & Fitness), Ilona Trokel, Haleh Fouladi, Lisa Saltzman and Denise Hill. DGN has spread its mission far and wide by effectively utilizing social media.

Primarily, DGN has supported Great Neck merchants and retailers by promoting them on Facebook and Instagram — at no charge. We have hosted so-

After taking a day to regroup from your Thanksgiving feast, please join us on Saturday, November 26th to enjoy what this wonderful town that we all love has to offer.

Tulip Avenue, Covert Avenue, and Jericho Turnpike all have very excellent restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, delicatessens, nail salons, hair salons, boutiques, and professional services, to name a few that rely on Floral Park residents’ patronage. Come out to show you care about these businesses and our Floral Park town.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, November 26th! The Floral Park Chamber of Commerce has received permission from our Village for Free Meters that day in the Village of Floral Park only!

Marie C. O’Connor-Grant

President – Floral Park Chamber of Commerce

(516) 524-2781

MGrant@SignaturePremier.com

cial events and promoted community programs on our website and social media platforms to better connect the community and facilitate communications among the different stakeholders in town.

DGN is resonating with residents, merchants and visitors because of the love for our town. What we started one year ago is turning into a Renaissance movement. We have made great connections with all the local governments including the 9 + Great Neck villages as well as North Hempstead and Nassau County.

The central goal is to beautify and revitalize the Middle Neck Road corridor and fortify the streetscape. Recently, on Oct. 25, we held a packed

Community Forum with many influencers and thought leaders attending— visionaries with bold ideas to reaffirm Great Neck as a jewel of the North Shore.

All involved from residents to visitors and merchants to elected representatives want to make Great Neck a true Destination once again. We are a historical, unique town with top-rated schools, beautiful parks and a short commute to Manhattan.

DGN has reignited a passion for our town and collectively, our strong voices, and partnerships are helping shape the hometown we all deserve. Volunteers and support are greatly needed. Please join us. info@destinationgreatneck.com.

Great Neck Chamber of Commerce

Great Neck, known for its fabulous restaurants, unique stores and boutiques, and invigorating and relaxing salons and spas. Great Neck is also known for the variety and quality of its professionals.

In Great Neck, personal care, attention and service are at an unsurpassed level. Spend some time in Great Neck where you can partake of culinary delights, be pampered and enjoy a unique shopping experience on Long Island’s famous Gold Coast. The Great Neck Chamber of Commerce

Our Mission: Unify the retail, commercial, industrial and service businesses of Great Neck, as well as the institutions of the community and professional leaders.

To promote business with the goal of increasing sales for retail and commercial business establishments.

To advance community interests through study, research, contact with elected officials, legislation and information programs and services.

• To invest in the economic growth and development of Great Neck.

• To share a strong commitment to the business community

516-487-2000 www.greatneckchamber.org

with the common objective to make the Great Neck peninsula a great and wonderful place to live, work and shop!

Benefits of membership:

Business over Breakfast with guest lecturers, hosting consultants in various industries, general business forums, local and state officials. These events are informative and present an opportunity to participate and interact with speakers. Networking events: Held at various locations throughout the peninsula. A great opportunity to meet fellow business owners and create relationships. Ribbon cuttings: All are entitled to a ribbon cutting as a welcome to the neighborhood. We make sure local officials and the community know you have arrived to the peninsula. Website and Social Media: Business postings on the Chamber website as well as our social media outlets.

Visit us on the web to join: www.greatneckchamber.org

Mineola Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Mineola.

It was in 1858 when this land became known as Mineola, named after an Algonquin Indian Chief, Miniolagamika meaning, “Pleasant Village.”

The name was later shortened and altered to “Mineola.” The Village was legally incorporated in 1906. Mineola is home to a diverse community of people, and this is reflected in the diverse array of businesses in our downtown. There are over 200 members in the Mineola Chamber of commerce ranging from Accounting to Wedding services and countless more services.

We are home to a variety of authentic Portuguese restaurants, Traditional Tacos, Superb

Italian food. An authentic Diner on the historical registry, Colombian, and All-American fare.

We have locally owned specialty pharmacies, a unique Vintage Goods store, a variety of delicatessens, highly regarded dentists, optometrists, podiatrists, hair and nail salons, florists, insurance agents, Toy and Hobby shop, and when it’s gets cold, we have you covered with our own family-owned furrier.

When you are ready for a break from shopping locally, visit our Craft Brewery right in town ..the list goes on In other words, Mineola has something for everyone!

The Mineola Chamber of Commerce hosts numerous events throughout the year, includ-

ing our annual Fall Street Fair on Jericho Turnpike with vendors, a variety of food and refreshments, family attractions, and a car show.

Our golf outing in conjunction with Mineola Kiwanis honors outstanding people in our community at the Harbor Links Golf Club and our monthly dinner meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at one of Mineola’s great restaurants.

The chamber supports our high schools with two student cash awards each year and of course, we organize numerous ribbon-cutting ceremonies welcoming new businesses in Mineola. We invite you to visit our website www.mineolachamber.com for details on all of our events.

Manhasset Chamber of Commerce

This Holiday Season Manhasset Chamber of Commerce and Shop Manhasset are working on many ways to help our small businesses by encouraging the community to Shop Local, Spend Local, Eat Local.

The chamber will be hosting its 2nd Annual “A Merry Little Manhasset” on Nov. 26 on Small Business Saturday, a celebration of small, local, and e-commerce businesses. It falls on Nov. 26 the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, the day after Black Friday.

The chamber will bring festivities to Plandome Road to encourage the community to support small local businesses. Kick-Off will begin at 11:00 a.m. with photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and Caroling by The Actor’s Garage Carollers.

Hierarchy Architecture & Design will once again host a Gingerbread Competition. Free movie showing at Manhasset Cinemas include Home Alone, The Polar Express and The Christmas Chronicles.

Manhasset Chamber will host a toy drive for Adventures in Learning at Santa-land, 346 Plandome Road Bring a new unwrapped toy and help a local child, ages 1-18.

Thanks to Manhasset Beautification, Plandome Road will be decorated with Holiday Lights on the light posts and planters. To add more holiday cheer throughout the town, the Chamber is encouraging businesses to decorate their windows and will be hosting a “Holiday Window Display Contest.”

Voting will begin Friday Dec. 2, same day as Christmas Tree Lighting, where the chamber will announce the winner of the “All Roads Lead Home” poster contest winners.

While enjoying the festivities, make sure to stroll around town and do some local shopping and grab a bite to eat. Manhasset Chamber of Commerce encourages all to come out and support our small local businesses.

Make sure to check the “Merry Manhasset” schedule at www.shopmanhasset.com for event details.

Thanks to the Merry Manhasset Sponsors: Long Island Dermatology, Shelter Rock Church, Manhasset Living, The Forbes Team Compass, Plandome Haircutters, Coquette, J. Pocker, Coldwell Banker Homes, and The Mothers’ Group of Manhasset.

The Greater New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce

Just about 18 years ago we opened our new business in New Hyde Park, Crown Trophy.

We needed to develop a customer base so we could pay our rent, amongst many other expenses. Always looking to develop relationships, I was invited to attend a New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting at the Inn of New Hyde Park.

I walked into a room full of not one familiar face, eager to see what this chamber was all about. I sat down at a small round table with 10 people and introduced myself. The unfamiliar became a little more comfortable.

Then they passed around a microphone to all guests who were attending for the first time and was asked to make a short introduction about myself and our new business. The opportunity to introduce myself to a roomful of strangers became a little less stressful. Somehow, I managed to handle this new encounter.

When the meeting finally ended, more than a handful of strangers came up to my table, introduced themselves, asked for a business card and wished me well. One gentleman introduced himself as the president of the New Hyde Park

— Mineola Runner’s Club and said they have an annual event each June and he would like to discuss how Crown Trophy can partner with them by providing the awards.

Wow! Now 18 years later, I’m happy to say that we’ve been partners for all their annual running events and year-end dinners since that chance encounter.

What do I mean when I say the “Power of our Chamber?” We are a community of local business owners. Collectively, we provide an

opportunity for our members, mostly individual business owners, to be visible. How do we do this? We provide a platform of networking, exchanging ideas and basically, doing business with one another.

But we really do much more than that. We market our members in various ways, with our website, social media, ads in local papers, newsletters and yearly printed business directory.

We are a vibrant group that cares about our community’s welfare. We raise money for lo-

Port Washington Chamber of Commerce

Since its inception in 1930, the Port Washington Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) has taken an active and visible role in promoting the community. In 1939, when Pan Am’s Dixie Clipper took off from Port Washington on its first regularly scheduled passenger flight from the United States to Europe, the chamber organized ceremonies attended by over 5,000 people.

Today, with over 280 members, the chamber is involved in the issues and activities of the 21st century. A major undertaking of the Chamber, in conjunction with the Greater Port Washington Business Improvement District, is the creation of a mobile app for Port Washington. Called “Try Port First,” it has everything people want to know about our community, including business listings and events.

We have open monthly meetings and networking events to encourage businesspeople to have a voice in their community and to learn about issues that affect them all.

Improving and enhancing Port’s waterfront has been a priority for the Chamber and one on which we continue to have a major

impact. One of the Chamber’s largest efforts to date has been our annual HarborFest.

The goal of HarborFest is to focus attention on our waterfront – its beauty, history and current environmental concerns.

On the fun side, the Chamber’s annual HarborFest brings families to our waterfront for a day of cruises on Manhasset Bay; a craft fair; concerts; an enviro-expo; a fun park with games, activities and free family entertainment; Art in the Park; local vendors; a fabulous food court and more.

The chamber’s SOUPer Bowl, on the first Saturday in February, is always a welcome respite from the cold winter weather. Local restaurants donate their best soups to the event.

Pre-Covid, hundreds of people came together to taste the soups and vote for their

favorites. Since Covid, we turned it into a take-home event.

People sign up and pay online and on SOUPer Bowl day, they pick up a reusable tote bag full of 6-ounce portions of each soup to take home. They can then heat and taste the soups and vote online for their favorites. The winner is the SOUPer Bowl Champ!

For the holidays, we kick off the season with other local organizations to offer Port Holiday Magic on Small Business Saturday. It features store specials; entertainment on the street; a free trolley; Santa riding around town on a fire truck followed by Santa at the train station; holiday-themed backdrops for selfies, and much more.

Every year, the Chamber decorates all the lampposts with green garlands, lights and red

888-400-0311 www.nhpchamber.org

cal charities, we set up food donation sites for people to drop off donations during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, and we have a benevolent arm where we take care of our neighbors and their families in need by providing donations and services.

I am now proud to be an insider, serving as a chamber board member and proud to do my part. I’ve been involved with many dedicated committees, membership, marketing, the annual golf outing. I work with many dedicated Chamber members, old and new, on a multitude of good causes.

So please come down and attend a monthly meeting, find out about all the other benefits available to you.

Talk to another chamber member about the benefits that they have experienced. Remember, I was once an outsider, looking in. Now I’m an insider, looking in and have not been disappointed that I took that first step.

By Ron Shapiro Chamber Director, Owner Crown Trophy

516-883-6566 • www.pwcoc.org

bows. We have a window decorating contest for the stores to publicly recognize those who go all out for the holidays. We also run a toy and food drive called “Make a Child Smile” which was started by a member of our board of directors who is also a police detective.

Every year, the chamber gives away American flags to everyone who comes to the Memorial Day parade.

On a permanent, year-round basis, the Chamber has established a nautical museum on the town dock. The “Pride of Cow Bay” is actually the pilot house of an old tug boat that has been renovated by local volunteers and businesses. Rotating exhibits can be viewed through the portholes, and Port Hole Pete is always at the helm to delight the children.

We welcome residents and visitors to take advantage of all Port Washington has to offer – friendly shops, fabulous restaurants, unique museums, historic homes, numerous community events and a beautiful waterfront with scenic public parks.

Visit pwcoc.org for more information about the Chamber of Commerce as well as its hundreds of businesses and activities.

The Greater Roslyn Chamber of Commerce has just concluded a very successful year.

Membership has grown by 40 new members, and we are rapidly approaching our year-end goal of 100 total members. Goal for 2023 is 150 by June.

The chamber is the organization that represents the businesses in Greater Roslyn as they work to grow and interact with our residents and the neighboring communities. The Chamber takes in Albertson, East Hills, Roslyn Heights, Greenvale and Roslyn Village. Businesses outside this area may also join the Chamber as Friends of The Roslyn Chamber.

The strength of any group is their

members, and we are particularly proud of the diversity of the businesses that are part of the chamber. We have retail stores, restaurants, doctors, lawyers, dentists, banks, financial services, and much more.

The Greater Roslyn Chamber has been particularly active this past year. We have monthly membership meetings with an average attendance of around 35 members. We had a chamber trip to the Mets at Citifield, we were the only chamber from Nassau County to have a booth at the HIA Trade Show, exposing our members to potential new business, had a successful concert in Gerry Park, we have a Christmas tree/Menorah lighting December 5th at 5:15 p.m. at the Roslyn Clock Tower, and

are planning a Holiday member party.

We also advertise and promote our members with ads in the Roslyn Times, Roslyn News and Newsday.

We are an impartial group and do not promote or endorse any candidates or political parties. But we do serve as a forum for meeting our elected officials.

If you are a business, small entrepreneur who works from home, or a business professional, the Greater Roslyn Chamber is the place to be. Visit us at www.roslynchamber.org or call President Rich Branciforte at 516-233-9916 for more information. We urge you to join us in “Watching Out For The Community.”

Chamber of the Willistons

Visit the Willistons and you will know that we are all about the people.

As one of the few walkable villages, we have a lot to offer. Our streets are sunny, clean and full of businesses ready to greet you with a smile. Anything that you need, WE GOT IT!

Our Chamber is here to support the business members in their efforts to bring top quality services to the community. From Professional Services, Auto Repair, Roofing & Windows, Retail and Restaurants, think of our members as a way to make your life safer, happier and easier.

Some dates to remember:

Williston Park Tree Lighting: 12/4 at 6:30 PM

East Williston Tree Lighting: 12/6 at 7:05 PM

Williston Park Winter Concert at the Gezebo: 12/18 at 4:30 organized by the beautification committee and the Senior Advisory Committee.

Membership and meeting information: Please visit our website. We wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year.

Bobby Shannon Chamber President

516-739-1943 www.chamberofthewillistons.com

Common respiratory ailments

that all metabolic activities can occur unhindered. The respiratory system is what makes the inhalation and exhalation of air possible, and it's a responsible for the distribution of oxygen throughout the body.

The respiratory system is a network of organs and tissues that help a person breathe. In addition to facilitating the absorption of oxygen from the air, the respiratory system cleans out waste gases like carbon dioxide. In a healthy person, the respiratory system functions like a well-oiled machine. But that same system is sometimes hampered by illness, allergies and infections, according to the Cleveland Clinic. With so much riding on a healthy respiratory system, it can help to learn about some of the more common conditions that can affect it.

· Asthma: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by narrowed airways aff ected by inflammation. Asthma causes breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing, and other symptoms. Most people need to take preventive medicines to control symptoms.

· COPD: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is comprised of chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Bronchitis is when the lining of the bronchial tubes become infl amed and irritated. Swelling may cause an abundance of mucus. Emphysema occurs when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) become damaged and less fl exible. This reduces the alveoli's ability to move oxygen and other gases, which adversely affects breathing, according to Verywell Health.

· Influenza: Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral illness that can produce a number of symptoms. The flu viruses can be inhaled or brought into the body by touching items that contain the virus. Mild fever, runny nose, cough, fatigue, and sore throat are common symptoms of influenza. While most people recover, the Mayo Clinic warns that flu complications can be deadly.

· COVID-19: SARS-CoV-2 is the virus responsible for causing COVID-19, which was discovered in the winter of 2019. It is a highly infectious illness caused by a coronavirus. It is spread from person to person, and has caused millions of deaths around the world as well as lasting health problems, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Depending on the individual, the effects of COVID-19 can be mild or severe. Because the virus mutates easily, researchers continue to develop new vaccines to help boost defense against it. Symptoms appear within two to 14 days of exposure to the virus. A person infected with the coronavirus is contagious to others for up to two days before symptoms appear, and they remain contagious to others for 10 to 20 days, depending on their immune system and the severity of their illness.

· Tuberculosis: TB is a contagious and potentially life-threatening infectious disease caused by the bacterium mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is spread through the air. The CDC says TB is preventable and treatable in most cases. Infection control practices can help reduce TB transmission.

· Pneumonia: With pneumonia, a virus, bacteria or another infectious agent causes alveoli to fi ll with fluid or pus, affecting breathing and gas exchange. Pneumonia symptoms may be mild and not affect daily activities, while others can be severe and require hospitalization.

· Cystic fibrosis: This is a genetic condition that creates very thick mucus in the body, which can cause both breathing and digestive problems. Blockages from thick mucus can trap harmful bacteria and lead to infections, says the Mayo Clinic.

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and the town board today announced that North Hempstead will host a massive, month-long collection drive to help benefit needy families and less fortunate children throughout the community during the upcoming holiday season.

The Town of North Hempstead will partner with the United States Marine Corps and collect new and unwrapped toys at collection boxes placed at Town facilities through Dec. 16.

“By working together with Major Chuck Kilbride and the dedicated United States Marines on the Toys for Tots program, our goal is to help kids and families in need have a joyous holiday season,” Supervisor DeSena said. “The Toys for Tots Drive this year will be especially crucial, as many families are feeling undue financial burden this holiday season. I encourage all who are able to donate to this wonderful cause, so we can help make sure that the less fortunate within our community will not have to go without something to bring them happiness this holiday season.”

Over the last 75 years, the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots program has distributed nearly 550 million toys to more than 250 million children. For those looking to donate to the drive, new, unwrapped toys will be accepted at locations across Town.

Toys for Tots Collection Boxes will be located at the following facilities:

• North Hempstead Town Hall – 220 Plandome Road, Manhasset

• Clinton G. Martin Park — Marcus Ave & New Hyde Park Road, New Hyde Park

• “Yes We Can” Community Center – 141 Garden Street, Westbury

• Port Washington Community Center – 80 Manorhaven Boulevard, Port Washington (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. only)

• Michael Tully Park – 1801 Evergreen Avenue, New Hyde Park

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, the Town Board, and the Town Veterans Advisory Committee today announced that the Town will host the 9th annual Veterans Donation Drive for the benefit of the Northport VA Hospital through Dec. 3. Donations will once more benefit the Hero Hunger Help Project.

“The Town is proud to host this donation drive for the VA again this year. We are committed to helping our veterans,” Supervisor DeSena said. “I invite residents to join in contributing to this excellent cause. This is a Town-wide collaborative effort, and a fantastic opportunity to give back to those in our community who have served our country.”

The Hero Hunger Help Project began in 2006 and helps veterans combat food insecurity. As part of this drive, the Town is collecting gift cards for grocery stores and pharmacies.

Those interested in donating may drop gift cards off at one of the following locations:

· North Hempstead Town Hall, Supervisor’s Office – 220 Plandome Road, Manhasset

· Clinton G. Martin Park, Front Desk – New Hyde Park Road & Marcus Avenue

· Michael J. Tully Park, Front Desk – 1801 Evergreen Avenue, New Hyde Park

· New Hyde Park Village Hall – 1420 New Hyde Park Road

In addition, for those who wish to donate but have no way to drop off gift cards, contact Rich DeMartino of the Veterans Advisor Committee at (516) 652-6865 and he will pick up the gift card.

Business&RealEstate

Analyzing renting over purchasing

I have been observing the current market and reading the 137 responses that I received from my previous column on Nov. 7. Although my survey isn’t comparable to any national survey via the Labor Dept. or any other government entity, it’s a small microcosm of the feelings of our local Long Island purchasing community who subscribe to my column.

It appears approximately 62% of my respondents think renting or staying in place is more advantageous than purchasing right now. It is based mainly on our current interest rates. which are causing the increase in their monthly payments. However, the readers also thought that prices were still too high and felt uneasy about the market, even though there currently is still historically low inventory that should keep prices strong.

From what I have researched, the double-digit increases are a thing of the past and we may just see 2-4% increases or possibly less, again partially affected by future demand. Although our inflation has decreased slightly, it’s the costs of most materials, available land for new construction, and interest rates that have adversely affected the environment of being able to sell

and earn a profit. This has greatly affected new construction. Some 24% of the respondents were contemplating sites outside New York State. And 14% were still trying to purchase with a conventional or variable-rate mortgage.

If you earn, $100,000 or more, have a very low debt/income ratio, and have at least a 10% down payment (preferably 20% for more choices in co-op apartments), you should qualify for a mortgage. If you are planning to stay in the area for 10-plus years, have children, and want a more secure environment of ownership then you must calculate the cost over the years of renting, with the lack of tax deductions, and the reduction in wealth during the time that you will be renting. Also, you will have little control over rent increases or the chance that your landlord might not renew your lease or even decide to sell.

Even if you still need or want to buy as rates have increased, you should seek out and discuss with your CPA or financial planner whether owning will enable you to be in a stronger financial position. For a few, if cutting out those wasteful expenditures, like Starbucks, eating out, or even leasing

PHILIP A. RAICES Real Estate Watch

a less costly vehicle, scheduling one less vacation, or buying fewer clothes enable you to purchase, then you just might be able to do it.

When inflation was running rampant and interest rates were as high as 18.5% in 1981, people were still purchasing, but then refinanced later when rates came down. Although our current rates are much higher, they should come down over the next year or two and you will have the opportu-

nity to refinance. Also, you will have less competition during the winter as opposed to next spring, so you may find it easier to locate a home, with some trade-offs, that will satisfy your current needs and wants.

If you are considering renting a home as opposed to an apartment, again anticipate the costs of rent, utilities, etc., and make a comparison to the cost of homeownership. As you pay down your mortgage (which I call a fixed lease), you are slowly building your nest egg and developing appreciation for the future. Most importantly, if your business or job allows you to work from home, then the room(s) you occupy will qualify as a deduction based on the percentage of the size of your home. All things being equal as the cost of a home will continue to increase, so will your wealth as the years go by.

It will not make any financial sense for some purchasing right now and the struggle to even attempt it would not be beneficial as well as the undue stress that it may surely cause. So give it some serious thought and do what makes sense in your head and the cents in your pocket.

I hope everyone has an enjoyable,

fun, and relaxing Thanksgiving with your family and friends. Eat and drink until your heart’s content, but don’t drink and drive!

Continue to Donate to the Ukrainian Crisis and save a life or 2:

IOM’s Ukraine Response

OR The International Organization for Migration a 501(c) 3 Corporation: OR:http://donate.iom.int

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 40 years of experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S) as well as the new “Green Industry” Certification for eco-friendly construction and upgrades. For a “FREE” 15-minute consultation, value analysis of your home, or to answer any of your questions or concerns he can be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com or via https:// WWW.TurnKeyRealEstate.Com. Just email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your ideas or suggestions on future columns with your name, email and cell number and he will call or email you back.

TECH

INTERNET EXPLORER: Retired But Not Gone

After a nearly 20-year run, Microsoft’s Internet Explorer (IE) is being retired as of June 15, 2022. Its replacement, Microsoft Edge, works faster, and is more secure and modern. Today’s internet environment is far more complex than when IE was launched in the 1990’s. It requires faster speeds to refresh web pages and process cloud-hosted programs.

Additionally, the online environment is increasingly dangerous, as cybercriminals exploit even the slightest of vulnerabilities. To combat this, security features have been built into Microsoft Edge, to minimize the risk of a breach.

• If you are a user accessing IE at home, we suggest you switch to Edge at your earliest opportunity. If you are using Windows 10, you can locate the program by searching for “Edge” in the box at the bottom left of the screen.

• Many business users still employ legacy programs and inter/intranet websites reliant on Internet Explorer. By enabling the “Internet Explorer mode” within the Microsoft Edge program, access to these applications will be remain supported through at least 2029. Check out the Internet Explorer mode website for more details..

For home users and for businesses that do not need access to features of Internet Explorer, Chrome, Firefox and Safari (for Mac users) are good options, as well.

Cyber Security

$2M OK’d for Westbury Ave. sidewalks

enue has been delayed for quite some time,” Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said Thursday night.

There were two resolutions on the agenda regarding the allocation of the federal funds, submitted by Democrat Councilwoman Veronica Lurvey and then DeSena, a Republican.

In Lurvey’s resolution, $3 million would have gone to townwide stormwater and flood mitigation, $2 million to townwide street paving, $2 million to Westbury Avenue, $200,000 to street lighting upgrades, $510,000 to Blumenfield Family Park improvements in Port Washington, $170,000 to Donald Street Park improvements in Roslyn Heights, $54,000 for a new pickle ball court in John D. Caemmerer Park in Albertson, $150,000 to Martin ‘Bunky’ Reid Park in Westbury for pool improvements, $350,000 to Michael J. Tully Park in New Hyde Park for tennis courts, $300,000 for an ADA bathroom at Ridder’s Pond Park in Manhasset Hillls, $150,000 for visioning in Sunset Park in Port Washington and $175,000 for an ADA playground in Manhassett’s Whitney Pond Park.

In DeSena’s resolution, $3.1 million would have connected Plandome Road businesses in Manhasset to a public sewer system, $2 million for sidewalk replacement along Westbury Avenue in Carle Place, $1 million for rehabilitation of the 8th and Asbury Ballfields in Carle Place, $1.76 million for Sunset Park improvements in Port Washington and $1.2 million for Fuschillo Park improvements in Carle Place.

“Let me be clear that by pulling these resolutions it does not mean in any way that these projects are dead,” DeSena said. “Instead, it gives us a chance to sit down, put our heads together and work out the details to make sure that our residents get the greatest benefit possible.”

Lurvey said that she looks forward to the coming weeks of working together as a board on a unifying proposal and that she expects to revisit projects originally meant for discussion

Thursday night, among others.

Councilman Robert Troiano, the representative for District 1, which includes Carle Place, said the work is long-awaited.

“I’m very happy to offer the amendment and on behalf of all seven of us to say to Carle Place that we are making an investment in Carle Place, which takes great pride in its school district and downtown areas,” Troiano said.

One of the projects that was pulled Thurs-

day, the $3.1 million to connect Plandome Road businesses to a public sewer system, had multiple supporters urging the board to follow through on its funding when they meet before the Dec. 15 meeting.

Matthew Donno, co-president of the Manhasset Chamber of Commerce, said both resolutions had great ideas on using the federal funds while adding he hopes the sewer project is considered.

Donno said state funds were secured earlier this year, but they are still not enough to cover the entirety of the project.

“Every little bit extra could push this over the edge,” Donno said. “Originally one of the ideas was to provide $3 million towards the project, so I hope when you get together to use the remaining funds, that is still on the table to be considered.”

Chamber member T.J. Costello said there have been multiple attempts in the past to fix the sewer system and that the board will have the project at the forefront of its considerations.

“These funds are essentially a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Costello said. “If we don’t tackle these sorts of things, it will be kicked to the side for another generation. I would like to act on this and encourage you all to do the same.”

Chamber member Robert Donno asked to meet with the board to discuss the project and said he’s been in contact with the Great Neck Water Pollution Control District regarding the project.

“We’re very, very close and have gotten around some hurdles,” Donno said. “I’m asking you to allow us to make a presentation and update you on what’s necessary to make this complete.”

Matthew Donno previously spoke with Blank Slate Media on how the funds would greatly benefit the area.

Donno said the project, which has been analyzed for more than five years, will provide economic and environmental benefits to Plandome Road’s business district.

Businesses and restaurants along Plandome Road can pay as much as $50,000 to $70,000 annually to pump their septic tanks. Some have also said they pay more than $500,000 a year to maintain their systems.

The system that Plandome business owners will be converting to will be a pump system that he said will connect to each building and essentially pump the water down the line to the Great Neck Water Pollution Control District, where it will be treated.

The next meeting for the North Hempstead Town Board will be Thursday, Dec. 15.

PHOTO BY BRANDON DUFFY

Manhasset Chamber of Commerce Co-President Matthew Donno speaks to the North Hempstead Town Board on Thursday, Nov. 17.

Dems, GOP deadlock on redistricting

state and federal laws and enhances equity by ensuring there are five minority-majority dis tricts where Black and Latino residents have the ability to elect the candidates of their choice,” Mejias said.

Republicans have defended their proposed map. They argue it is too late for Democrats to question the legality of the 2013 map, on which their proposal is based.

“You’re way over the line and you know it,” Moroney told his Democratic colleagues during a work session. “You just don’t care because you want to sue us so bad that you’ll say anything to do it. And that’s what’s going on here. Leave [our mapmaker] alone.”

New district lines are required to be adopted by the county legislature in March, officials said.

Currently, there are three proposals: one Republican and two Democratic versions. The Republican proposal closely resembles the cur rent map.

District 9 currently includes Albertson, East Williston, Garden City Park, Mineola, Munsey Park, New Hyde Park, Plandome, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, Roslyn Estates and Williston Park. It would remain the same under the Republican suggestion.

District 10 currently includes Kings Point, Great Neck, Lake Success, Herricks, Manhasset, Manhasset Hills, North Hills and Searington. It would remain the same under the Republican suggestion.

District 11 currently includes Glen Cove, Glen Head, Glenwood, Port Washington, Ros lyn, Roslyn Harbor, Sands Point and Sea Cliff. It would remain the same under the Republican proposal.

District 18 currently includes Bayville, East Hills, East Norwich, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Greenvale, Jericho, Locust Valley, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Westbury, Roslyn Heights, Syosset and Woodbury. It would remain the same under the Republican proposal.

However, some of the largest differences be tween the current map and the Republican map can be found in three districts — 2, 8 and 14.

District 2 currently includes Hempstead, Hicksville, Lakeview, Malverne, New Cassel, Rockville Centre, Uniondale, West Hempstead and Westbury. This would change to New Cas sel, a portion of East Meadow, Uniondale, Hempstead, West Hempstead and Garden City South.

District 8 currently includes Bellerose, Bel

lerose Terrace, Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square, New Hyde Park, Stewart Manor and West Hempstead. This would change to Floral Park, Malverne Park Oaks, Franklin Square, Stewart Manor, Bellerose and Bellerose Terrace.

District 14 currently includes Carle Place, Garden City, Garden City South and portions of Bethpage, Franklin Square, Hempstead, Hicks ville, Jericho, Plainview, West Hempstead and Westbury.

The two Democratic proposals are very sim ilar, but there are some key differences.

District 9 would cover Sands Point, Port Washington North, Manorhaven, Baxter Estates, Port Washington, Plandome Manor, Flower Hill, Munsey Park, Roslyn Estates, Manhasset, Thom aston, Kensington, Great Neck Gardens, Great Neck and Kings Point under the first proposal.

Under the second, it would include Kings Point, Great Neck, Great Neck Gardens, Kens

ington, Manhasset, Plandome Heights, Pland ome, Plandome Manor, Port Washington, Baxter Estates, Manorhaven, Sands Point, Roslyn Har bor, Roslyn (Village), Roslyn Estates, Munsey Park, Flower Hill and Thomaston.

District 7 would cover Glen Cove, Sea Cliff, Glenwood Landing, Glen Head, Old Brookville, Upper Brookville, Matinecock, Locust Valley, Lattingtown, Bayville, Mill Neck, Centre Island, Oyster Bay (Hamlet), Oyster Bay Cove, Cove Neck and Laurel Hollow under the first pro posal.

Under the second, it would include Roslyn (Village), Roslyn Harbor, Greenvale, Glenwood Landing, Old Brookville, Glen Head, Sea Cliff, Lattingtown, Matinecock, Locust Valley, Upper Brookville, Oyster Bay (Hamlet), Mill Neck, Bayville and Centre Island.

District 6 would cover Saddle Rock, Harbor Hills, Saddle Rock Estates, Great Neck Estates,

Great Neck Plaza, Russell Gardens, University Gardens, Lake Success, North Hills, Searing town, Manhasset Hills, Herricks, North New Hyde Park, New Hyde Park and Garden City Park under the first proposal.

Under the second, it would cover Saddle Rock, Harbor Hills, Great Neck Plaza, Russell Gardens, University Gardens, Lake Success, North Hills, Searingtown, Manhasset Hills, Her ricks, North New Hyde Park, Garden City Park and New Hyde Park.

District 2 would cover Westbury, New Cas sel, most of Salisbury, Uniondale and a portion of East Meadow. Under the second, it would cover Westbury, New Cassel, Salisbury, Union dale and portion of East Meadow

District 12 would cover Mineola, Carle Place, Williston Park, East Williston, Albert son, Roslyn Heights, East Hills, Old Westbury, Brookville, Muttontown, Oyster Bay Cove, Cove Neck, Laurel Hollow and parts of Jericho.

Under the second, it would cover Searing town, Albertson, Williston Park, Mineola, Carle Place, East Williston, Roslyn Heights, East Hills, Greenvale, Old Westbury, Brookville, Mutton town, East Norwich and part of Jericho.

District 11 would cover Bellerose Terrace, Bellerose, Floral Park, Stewart Manor, most of Franklin Square, Garden City South and Garden City. Under the second, it would cover Bellerose Terrace, Floral Park, South Floral Park, Garden City South, Garden City and a portion of Elmont and Franklin Square.

The Republican proposal divides commu nities like the Village of Hempstead into two districts, whereas the Democratic proposal it would be one district.

In addition, East Meadow, Freeport, Hicks ville and the Five Towns would be divided into four, four, four and three districts, respectively. Democrats would divide those areas into one, two, two and two districts, respectively.

The Roslyn area of North Hempstead, which is and would be four districts under the Republi can map, is reduced to three districts under the Democrats’ proposal.

Registered Democrats currently outnumber registered Republicans in Nassau by 100,000 — 420,000 to 320,000 with 277,000 blanks (no party affiliation).

As detailed in the 2020 U.S. Census, an influx of minority populations reflects Nassau County’s growing diversity.

The county’s total population increased by over 56,000 people, or 4.2%, over the last de cade. According to the data, it is less than 5,000 people short of reaching 1.4 million.

Additional reporting provided by Brandon Duffy

Gillen calls for state bail reform repeal

Continued from Page 2

“bloodbath” for Democratic candidates in the 2022 midterm elections did not prove true on a national scale, the “red wave” made its presence known on the North Shore.

Aside from Gillen’s loss, a Congressional seat that had not been Republican in 25 years, the 3rd Congressional District also flipped to Re publican as George Santos defeated Democrat Robert Zimmerman. Santos received 142,017, or 54.2% votes while Zimmerman received 120,060 or 45.8% votes.

Though Zimmerman, like Gillen, said that modifications to the state’s bail reform laws were needed, Santos’ messaging was that of being “completely against” the bail laws rath er than Zimmerman wanting to “advocate for changes” to the law.

Blakeman is one of the more fierce oppo nents of the bail reform laws, which were a pri mary focus throughout his campaign for county executive in 2021.

The county executive said the bail reform laws directly impacted Nassau seeing a 75% in crease in major crimes during the first quarter of 2022 compared to last year.

“We have to get serious about changing the laws so that we don’t give criminals more rights than victims,” Blakeman said in an interview with Blank Slate Media earlier this year. “Unfor tunately, that’s the way it is now. We’ve got peo ple committing crime after crime and judges are not given the discretion whether or not to hold these people and I think it’s a huge mistake.”

He said there is a “state of lawlessness” throughout New York and it has resulted in re peat offenders coming back to Nassau County to commit crimes. Until the laws are modified, Blakeman said, police departments throughout New York will have a more difficult time doing their jobs.

Statistics showed that 1,662 major crimes were committed throughout Nassau County from Jan. 1-March 31, up from 950 crimes dur

ing the same time frame last year.

In Nassau’s 3rd and 6th Precincts, which make up a majority of North Shore communi ties, 645 major crimes occurred during the three-month span this year, compared to 333 last year, an increase of 93%.

The list of major crimes includes murder, rape, criminal sexual acts, sexual abuse, com mercial robberies, other robberies, assault felo nies, residential burglaries, other burglaries, stolen vehicles and grand larceny.

Some of the main increases came from stolen vehicles, which increased by more than 250% throughout the county over the past year.

The 3rd Precinct reported 35 stolen vehicle incidents in 2022, nearly a 170% increase from 13 last year, while the 6th Precinct saw a 750% increase in stolen vehicles with 51 this year, compared to six last year, according to the sta tistics.

Blakeman said the issue with the state’s bail reform laws is that bail is not required regard

less of how many cars someone steals.

Other increases in Nassau’s major crimes this year included nearly 400 more grand lar ceny incidents, according to the statistics.

During the first three months of 2021, a total of 592 grand larceny incidents occurred throughout Nassau County.

That number rose by nearly 65% to 972 cases this year. The 3rd Precinct reported a 78% increase of grand larceny incidents with 296 this year, while the 6th Precinct reported a nearly 90% increase of grand larceny incidents with 113 in 2022.

During the first three months of 2022, Nas sau County saw a 55% increase in all robberies, a 45% increase in all burglaries and a 34% in crease in assault felony incidents, according to the statistics.

A total of 5,230 major crimes were reported throughout Nassau last year, with 3,201 being grand larceny incidents, according to numbers obtained by Blank Slate Media from a Freedom of Information Law request submitted to the Nassau County Police Department.

More than 16,000 “other crimes” were re ported throughout the county in 2021, accord ing to the statistics.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT PELAEZ

Nassau County Temporary Districting Advisory Commission Chairman Frank Moroney (left) and Democratic appointee David Mejias (right).

HELP WANTED

VET/TECH KENNEL ASSISTANT needed. All shifts available. Duties include helping doctors with appointments /treatments. Cleaning cages/offices equipment. Must like animals, be reliable, dependable & work well with others. Please call to schedule interview. Port Washington Animal Hospital: 516-883-2005

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Theater students visit Brooklyn

Herricks High School Student Theater Arts Company (STAC) recently took a multi-destination field trip to Brooklyn. The day started with a trip to Prospect Park for a photo assignment followed by a trip to the Brooklyn Museum.

After dinner the Herricks students saw Shakespeare’s Hamlet at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in German. A key

part of the STAC curriculum is experiencing the cultural riches of New York City and beyond.

STAC is a multi-disciplinary arts program allowing students to develop skills and create work across multiple disciplines in the fine and performing arts, including art, music, dance, drama, filmmaking, and creative writing.

Ghost sculptures haunt Herricks

Herricks High School Student Theater Arts Company (STAC) recently unveiled their latest installation of ghost sculptures around the grounds of Herricks High School. The placement of the sculptures was sitespecific bringing the art into the mix of day-to-day student life. The strategically placed ghost pieces can be seen tossing a football across the yard, escaping the sewer, and even borrowing books from the high school library. This series of artwork was created in collaboration with Herricks art teacher Allyson Zebrowski and STAC teacher Rob Gioia.

STAC is a multi-disciplinary arts program allowing students to develop skills and create work across multiple disciplines in the fine and performing arts, including art, music, dance, drama, filmmaking, and creative writing.

Kiwanis pancake breakfast

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Council Members Veronica Lurvey and Mariann Dalimonte recently attended the Kiwanis Club of Manhasset-Port Washington’s annual pancake breakfast on Nov. 6 at Manhasset High School. Attendees were treated to pancakes, coffee, live music, and a 50/50 raffle.

The proceeds from the pancake breakfast are donated to charities focused on child development.

The Kiwanis Club of ManhassetPort Washington is a community service organization that holds monthly meetings in order to serve the community and help children around the world.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HERRICKS PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Herricks High School ghost art is displayed around the school grounds.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HERRICKS PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Herricks High School STAC students visiting Prospect Park in Brooklyn.

Sports

N. Shore football repeats as Nassau champs

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

The North Shore High School football team has forgotten what it’s like to lose.

It’s been 15 months since the Vikings have seen the losing end of a game, and all that winning has bred so much confidence.

That’s why when its last two games have gotten tight, either tied or being a one-score game, there’s been no panic on the sidelines.

“These kids just stay calm and nobody worries we’re not going to win,” head coach Dan Agovino said. “Everybody is battle tested.”

The winning kept going for North Shore on Friday night, as it won its second consecutive Nassau title in Conference IV, beating West Hempstead, 20-6 Friday night at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium.

Behind the powerful running of Nick La Rosa (117 yards and 2 touchdowns) and a stingy defense, the Vikings improved to 11-0 and advanced to the Long Island Championship game for the second straight year.

North Shore will take on Bayport-

Blue Point Friday, Nov. 25 at noon at Shuart Stadium.

After the Vikings were greeted by raucous fans and a fire truck celebration back at the school in Glen Cove Friday night, La Rosa talked about what the win meant.

“It feels a bit different than last year, because last year we were striv-

ing for our first (championship) and we didn’t know how it would go,” La Rosa said. “This year we treated it like a business trip: We got there and played how we practiced, celebrated a little after, but we know we’ve got one more game left.”

The Vikings (11-0) were back in the county championship game for the

second straight year, and Friday night they were playing a familiar opponent in West Hempstead.

The two squads met earlier this season with North Shore claiming a close 14-7 win.

In defeating the Rams for the second time this season, North Shore had to shake off a difficult first half on offense. The Vikings gained only 29 yards in the first two quarters West Hempstead, making its first appearance in a Nassau final since 1986, held North Shore to 32 yards of offense in the first two quarters, but a special teams disaster allowed the Vikings to grab the first points.

A blocked punt in the end zone by North Shore’s Mike Granelli was recovered by teammate Pat Godfrey for a touchdown with 2:58 left in the opening quarter.

“We had seen something while watching film on them that we thought we could exploit, and Mike made a great play,” Agovino said. “We thought offensively we were close to making some big plays.”

In the second half, North Shore began to wear down the Rams (9-2). La

Rosa, who has rushed for 1,188 yards this season, smashed his way through the line and into the end zone for a 22-yard run halfway through the third quarter, giving the Vikings a 13-0 lead.

“That play was perfect, my guard Andrew pulled and the hole was there and I just had to hit it,” La Rosa said.

After West Hempstead sliced into the lead with a touchdown late in the third to cut its deficit to 13-7, La Rosa and the Vikings struck again in the fourth.

La Rosa powered into the end zone on a 10-yard touchdown run, and the extra point from Michael Fleming gave the Vikings a 20-6 lead, icing the game and sending them to the L.I. Championship game for the second straight year.

“We wear teams down, we have real good stamina and depth, and that showed,” Agovino added. “I’m so proud of these kids, they deserve all the success they’re getting. We’ve built on the success we had the last few years, and backing up what we did last year was very important to us.”

Bayport-Blue Point defeated John Glenn, 35-6 in the Suffolk title game.

Herricks swimmers, divers medal at state meet

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

Do you know how short a length of time two-hundredths of a second is?

It’s quicker than the blink of an eye, less time than it takes to snap your fingers, and Saturday morning at the New York State swimming and diving championships in Webster (outside Rochester), it was the agonizing difference between a state title and second place for Herricks’ Kailey Simons.

The outstanding senior swimmer came oh-so-close to her first individual title, missing out on a 50 freestyle win, with Angelina McKane of Corning swimming a 23.56, and Simons right behind at 23.58.

If her fingernails had been just a little bit longer

“I was surprised that I got second, so when I saw my time I was really happy,” Simons said. “And then I saw how close it was to winning and I was like, ‘Ohhh,” she said, laughing. “But it was still great, just to get that close and to get second.”

Simons, who had to miss last year’s state meet due to injuries to both shoulders, said she was thrilled to compete at this level again “and to swim the times I wanted.”

The 50-free race was incredibly close, with five swimmers finishing within .25 of each other.

“None of us had any idea who had won until we looked at the scoreboard, because all five of them touched at basically the same time,” said Herricks coach Danielle Sullivan. “So proud of the team and Kailey with how well she competed.”

Simons’ second place in the 50 free was an outstanding result on a day filled with them for Herricks, which finished third in team points at the meet.

Shortly after her 50 free runner-up performance, Simons snared another second-place finish, coming in second in the 100 backstroke in 55.92.

“It was my only second state meet so to get two seconds is really exciting,” Simons said. “I wanted to swim my best times and I did it so it was a great way to finish (my career).”

“Kailey is usually pretty reserved, pretty calm and not that excited after her races,” Sullivan said. “But after her races (Saturday) she was just beaming from ear to ear, huge smile on her face. It was wonderful to see.”

Simons’ senior teammate, Katie Yee, also excelled for the second straight year at states. Yee snagged a third-place finish

in the 100 butterfly, swimming it in 55.77, and a fifth place mark in the 200 individual medley, in a time of 2:05.68.“The competition for the 200 IM was faster overall this year,” Yee said. About one half of the pool was ahead by a significant amount, If I had a little more time to prepare and could come back next year, I think I could do better. But I was very excited with my butterfly time.”The two Herricks seniors also helped their team to a pair of fourth-place finishes in relay events. Combining with teammates freshman Natalie Wu and sophomore Isabella Chang, Herricks finished fourth in both the 200 medley relay and 400 freestyle relay.

While Simons and Yee are finished with their scholastic careers, two Manhasset competitors, both freshmen, showed they’re threats to win state titles in future years. Manhasset swimmer Samantha Anderson was very impressive as she impressively nabbed two Top-6 finishes Saturday. Anderson placed fourth in the 500 freestyle, in 5:01.76, and sixth in the 200 free in 1:54.16.

Manhasset freshman diver Victoria Wang snagged a third-place finish for her team, scoring a 530.15 in the 1-meter competition.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH SHORE HIGH SCHOOL

PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIELLE SULLIVAN

Pictured left to right Katie Yee, Isabella Chang, Natalie Woo and Kailey Simons of Herricks High School competed at the New York State meet on Saturday, Nov. 19.