Manhasset Times_06_21_24

GUIDE TO GRADUATION

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TIMES RANKED 3rd

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2 Dems vie to take on Jack Martins

Kim Keiserman, Brad Schwartz to compete in June 25 primary

BY CAMERYN OAKES

As New York voters head to the polls on June 25 for the state’s primary election, the election headlining the North Shore will be the Democratic primary race for state Senate District 7.

Kim Keiserman and Brad Schwartz are going head-to-head in the race to challenge District 7 state Sen. Jack Martins, a Republican endorsed by the Conservative Party, who is running for re-election. The primary winner will face off against Martins in November.

The district, which includes much of the North Shore and the Town of Oyster Bay as far east as Woodbury, is currently represented by Martins, who flipped the district red in 2022.

Keiserman is an education consultant and serves as a commissioner for the North Hempstead Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, chairwoman of the Baxter Estates Planning Board and a board member of the Come to Believe Network.

She is also president of the Port Washington Democratic Club, a zone Leader for the Nassau County Democratic Committee and co-president of the Baxter’s Pond Foundation.

Her campaign platform encompasses advocating for reproductive

rights, investing in public education, fostering gun safety legislation, lowering taxes and bolstering affordability, protecting the environment and standing up against bigotry.

Keiserman’s intent in running is to give Long Island a seat at the table at the state level to ensure their voices are heard, according to her campaign.

Schwartz, who ran in the 2018 race but dropped out before the primary against former state Sen. Anna Kaplan, is a former television editor and producer with a Ph.D in public policy. He is a lifelong resident of Long Island’s North Shore and lives in Roslyn.

He is the founding chairman of Sid Jacobson JCC’s Community Needs Bank.

Schwartz’s campaign is focused on addressing the district’s high cost of living, bolstering public school funding, developing housing, supporting reproductive rights, healthcare affordability, combatting hate and antisemitism, protecting the environment and bettering public safety.

In a candidate forum hosted by the Port Washington–Manhasset League of Women Voters, both Keiserman and Schwartz touted their ability to unseat Martins in the general election this November.

Continued on Page 47

TRUMP ENDORSES LiPETRI IN CD3

FLAG DAY

DeSena deputy highest paid town employee

BY CAMERYN OAKES

North Hempstead Deputy Supervisor Joseph Scalero is the town’s highest-paid employee and received a 15% pay increase this year, according to information provided by the Town of North Hempstead and See Through NY.

Scalero receives an annual salary of $193,800 in 2024, according to Town documents.

Scalero’s salary surpasses that of Town Attorney Richard Nicolel-

lo – the second-highest-paid employee – and all of the town’s commissioners and superintendents.

Blank Slate Media received a list of the Town of North Hempstead’s 25 highest-paid employees and their respective salaries as of April 15 through a Freedom of Information Act request.

Scalero’s salary grew by 15.36% in 2024. He was allotted a salary of $168,000 in 2023 and was the town’s third-highestpaid employee, according to See

Through NY, a government transparency website with information using government sources.

“Compensation for these officials is commensurate with those in surrounding municipalities and reflects both their years of professional experience and their work responsibilities,” town spokesperson Umberto Mignardi said in an email to Blank Slate Media.

Last year, the town’s highestpaid employees were former Town

Continued on Page 47

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANHASSET PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Munsey Park first graders celebrate Flag Day.

Nathan’s, Sweet Pea

lot to house CVS

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

A CVS Pharmacy will be moving into the vacant lot on the corner of Hillside Avenue and Herricks Road, builders announced at a Lakeville Estates Civic Association meeting Wednesday night.

The vacant storefronts on the Hillside Avenue and Herricks Road lot, previously home to Nathan’s, Sweet Pea and a medical building, will be knocked down to make way for a large CVS Pharmacy.

With the addition of the spacious CVS, smaller CVS storefronts in Williston Park and another on Hillside Avenue will close, according to the developers.

“I like this change. That was a deserted area. This is something helpful to the community. It is not controversial,” Councilwoman Christine Liu

“This is something helpful to the community. It is not controversial. This is a wonderful improvement and no longer an eyesore to this community.”

— Councilwoman Christine Liu

said. “This is a wonderful improvement and no longer an eyesore to this community.”

Liu said the CVS Pharmacy fills

a need in the area, since a Rite Aid across the street from the empty lot closed a few years ago.

The CVS store will not be a 24hour location: The store will be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., or possibly to 11 p.m., the builders said.

CVS has a 20-year lease on the property, the builders said.

While Liu said the building plans are still in the “infancy stage,” developers presented a tentative blueprint of the building, which includes a drive-thru, expanded parking and two exits and entrances.

Both of the exit and entrance points are as far as possible from the intersection to mitigate traffic and accidents, the developers said.

The developers said they made an application about a month ago. They are aiming to have the building ap-

TO REACH US

Legislators tackle resident concerns

Ra, Sillitti, Martins talk to NHP residents

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Assemblyman Ed Ra, Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti and state Sen. Jack Martins responded to resident inquiries and concerns about the paused congestion pricing plan, immigration issues and more at a Lakeville Estates Civic Association meeting Wednesday night.

Martins, a Republican, arrived at the meeting more than an hour late, so he did not respond to the first set of questions, but he did promise to stay as late as residents wanted.

Ra, also a Republican, and Sillitti, a Democrat, both said they were in favor of Gov. Kathy Hochul’s recent pause on the incoming congestion pricing plan

Ra said he opposed the bill when it first passed and called the pause a “good thing.”

“I think it’s clear once again it never had anything to do with the environment,” he said. “It was about money.”

Sillitti agreed and said the congestion tax “wasn’t being done the right way.” She called the pricing plan “wildly unpopular” and “backwards,” claiming the plan’s main goal was to raise $1 billion for the MTA instead of getting cars off the road.

However, Sillitti said a problem that has arisen from the pause is a $1

billion gap in the MTA capital plan which congestion pricing was set to fund.

Both legislators said they will likely need to go back to Albany for a legislative session in July or August.

Ra said the legislative session, which just finished this month, was “light on a lot of major action,” but he pointed out the lawmakers did pass some social media bills designed to “help protect youth from social media and put some parameters in place.”

He said there were not enough measures taken to combat crime, although some proposed provisions increased penalties for retail theft and assaulting retail workers.

Ra turned to immigration.

“The migrant situation continues to be a problem,” he said.

The legislator said more work needs to be done to “shut off the faucet” and deal with “sanctuary policies” in the city.

Sillitti said a big win was the restoration of state aid for school districts.

She said her priority looking toward to next year is making voter rolls more accurate.

The two legislators disagreed on a state law Hochul signed in December that will move most local elections to even years.

Taylor Herzlich 516-307-1045 x215 • therzlich@theisland360.com Manhasset Times: Cameryn Oakes 516-307-1045 x214 • coakes@theisland360.com

Roslyn Times: Taylor Herzlich 516-307-1045 x215 • therzlich@theisland360.com

Williston Times: Taylor Herzlich 516-307-1045 x215 • therzlich@theisland360.com

Port Washington Times: Cameryn Oakes 516-307-1045 x214 • coakes@theisland360.com

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

The proposed CVS Pharmacy building plans for the corner of Hillside Avenue and Herricks Road.

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

State Sen. Jack Martins speaks with residents at a Lakeville Estates Civic Association meeting.

Carnival aids Herricks community

Fundraiser supports variety of local causes, including senior programming, after-school events

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

The Herricks Community Fund raises money throughout the year to support a variety of causes, programming and scholarships in the Herricks community.

The non-profit recently hosted the Herricks Carnival, which is its biggest fund-raiser of the year.

“We use those funds that we generate from the carnival to support our many activities,” Co-Vice President Gary Davis said.

The Herricks Community Fund supports a variety of local programming, including a year-round Senior Nutrition Program that operates Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. The non-profit also hosts entertainment outings and lunches for senior citizens. The Herricks Community Fund has a large focus on helping senior citizens stay active within their community.

The fund members are currently focused on Friday Night Recreation, Davis said. FNR is a program that invites middle-school students to enjoy a night of games, arts and crafts, DJs, pizza, soda and snacks for a $10 fee. The aim of the

program is to provide local kids with a safe, drug-free after-school environment at Herricks Middle School.

During its run, the Herricks Community Fund has donated more than $1 million to community programs, including Our Space Adult Day Program, Herricks Youth Council, Scouts, Herricks Scholarship Fund, Herricks School District and more.

Davis encouraged those interested in volunteering to reach out: “We’re always looking for volunteers.” Interested individuals can email fund members at hcf@herricks.org or call at 516-742-1926.

The Herricks Community Fund originated in 1986 as a means of fund-raising for programming at the Community Center. In 1996, the Herricks superintendent and board members asked the fund members to expand their reach to include the school district.

Since then the Herricks Community Fund has been actively involved in Herricks student programming and supported many student scholarships.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JENNIFER DESENA

Pictured left to right: Herricks Community Fund, Co-President Iona Davis, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, HCF Trustee Brian Hassan, HCF Trustee Harish Chugh, Co-Vice President Gary Davis, HCF Co-President Paul Ehrbar, Co-Vice President Doreen Ehrbar, Blake Ehrbar, and HCF Trustee Mari Grimshaw.

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Running

Schwartz

Schwartz

Previously,

Reisman,

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Manhasset Times wins 3rd best weekly

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Blank Slate Media took home five awards from the Press Club of Long Island for headline writing, education reporting and community weekly newspaper Thursday during the 2024 Media Awards contest.

The publication, which distributes six weekly newspapers covering the North Shore of Nassau County, won second place in best headline, second and third place in best education reporting and second and third place in best community weekly newspaper.

“We’re striving to be the number one source of news and information in the communities that we cover and we want to provide a quality newspaper,” editor and publisher Steven Blank said. “It’s nice to get recognition from the press club, that they would recognize us in evaluating us against all the other newspaper groups on Long Island. I’m happy for our staff as well, who gain recognition because they’re very dedicated and they work very hard.”

Blank said the wins are evidence of the staff’s ability to produce quality work despite having fewer resources than large competitors like Newsday.

“It’s a testimony to our staff that we can excel with less and…within the limitations, we’re still able to produce an excellent newspaper,” he said.

Reporter Cameryn Oakes won second place for her headline “We are not on the menu” in the Great Neck News.

Her story, published in November 2023, reported on the work being done by a local coyote expert to educate the community on how to co-exist with the animals following an incident

where a dog was attacked while on a walk.

The Manhasset Times won two education reporting awards: second place for “Manhasset office” and third place for “A Living Tradition: Two graduate students adapt a collective approach to preserving endangered languages.”

“We’re the only publication that’s covering the schools and the school districts as closely, which I think was reflected in the [coverage of] campaigns for school board members and budgets,” Blank said. “I think in a lot of cases, there is nobody else other than us attending these meetings and providing that information to people in the community.”

The Roslyn Times – with editorial staff Brandon Duffy, Oakes and Blank – won second place for best community weekly newspaper. The Manhasset Times – with editorial staff Duffy, Oakes and Blank – won third place for best community weekly newspaper.

Duffy and Oakes “both took on a tremendous workload because of their commitment to cover the communities and do a really good job,” Blank said. “It’s a reflection of their hard work that we won.”

The press club awards follow impressive wins at the New York Press Association Better Newspaper Contest last month when Blank Slate Media won eight state-wide awards and swept the top three places for the best column award.

Blank Slate Media began operation in 2010 with the purchase of three newspapers – the Great Neck News, New Hyde Park Herald-Courier and Williston Times.

The company later grew to six newspapers with the launch of the Manhasset Times, Roslyn Times and Port Washington Times.

Blank Slate Media won five awards from the Press Club of Long Island.

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

STEVE ISRAEL FORMER

Garland vote partisan among Nassau reps

CONGRESSMAN

PRESENTS

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Nassau legislators’ votes to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress fell along party lines, with Republicans voting yes and Democrats voting no.

The Justice Department said FridayGarland will not be prosecuted after the Republican-controlled House voted Wednesday to hold him in contempt of Congress.

The vote came after Garland failed to turn over audio from special counsel Robert Hur’s October 2023 interview with President Joe Biden about his handling of classified documents.

Republicans applauded the vote to hold Garland in contempt and said the attorney general meddled with the oversight process.

“It is up to Congress – not the Executive Branch – to determine what materials it needs to conduct its own investigations, and there are consequences for refusing to comply with lawful Congressional subpoenas,” Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said in a statement. “Congress has a responsibility to conduct oversight of the Special Counsel’s work and specifically Special Counsel Hur’s determination not to prosecute President Biden for the clear violation of the law.”

Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, who represents District 4, voted in favor of holding Garland in contempt, along with every other Nassau Republican legislator.

JUNE 28TH & 29TH

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY IN BROOKVILLE

“Attorney General Merrick Garland refused to comply with a subpoena requesting information on Special Counsel Hur’s investigation into President Biden, hindering Congress’s ability to engage in constitutionally protected oversight,” D’Esposito said in a statement. “I voted to hold Garland in contempt of Congress for flagrantly obstructing the work of the House of Representatives by willfully ignoring congressional subpoenas.”

Continued on Page 54

Keynote by best-selling historian ERIK

LARSON

and many more author panels on Saturday, June 29th.

JUNE 30TH

DOWNTOWN OYSTER BAY

ENJOY Marketplace, Kids’ Activities, More Authors in Oyster Bay’s Downtown with many wonderful local businesses!

“Celebrate literature and Long Island at the Gold Coast Book Fair!”

Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch Restaurants, Golf Courses, Beaches and Shopping. Nassau is back and open for business!

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland.

T:12.45"

NASSAU KNOLLS

Trump endorses LiPetri in CD-03

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Former president Donald Trump endorsed Republican Mike LiPetri Saturday in his 3rd Congressional District race.

LiPetri is challenging incumbent Democrat Rep. Tom Suozzi, who flipped the seat to blue during a special election in February to replace disgraced former Rep. George Santos.

“Mike will be an INCREDIBLE America First Fighter in Congress, and will work hard to Grow the Economy, Lower Inflation, Uphold the Rule of Law, Defend the Border, Promote American Energy, and Support our Great Military and Police,” Trump wrote in a social media post. “Mike LiPetri has my Complete and Total Endorsement!”

Trump previously endorsed Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, a Republican incumbent running for re-election in the 4th Congressional District against former Hempstead Supervisor Laura Gillen.

LiPetri welcomed the endorsement and spoke in support of Trump’s own race for reelection.

“Four more years under the Biden-Harris Administration would be a disaster for our economy, our quality of life, and the well-being of our allies abroad,” LiPetri told Blank Slate Media in a statement. “With this endorsement, Republicans up and down the ballot are unified and committed to restoring common sense at home and abroad, securing our border, and protecting

Former President Donald Trump endorsed Mike LiPetri in his 3rd Congressional District race against Congressman Tom Suozzi.

the interests of Long Island taxpayers.” LiPetri, a former state Assemblyman and attorney, ran unsuccessfully in a primary for a seat in the 2nd Congressional District in 2020. LiPetri is a CD-3 native from Farmingdale. The 33-year-old is focused on tackling crime,

Continued on Page 54

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE LIPETRI

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN

NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

FREE LAKESIDE THEATRE CONCERTS

EISENHOWER PARK, East Meadow | Parking Field #6 All Events weather permitting. Call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.

JUNE

Saturday, June 15 ...............

8:00-9:30pm

Ja Rule at Mitchel Field Athletic Complex

Sunday, June 16

Indian American Night

Wednesday, June 26

Friday, July 19 ..................

Creole American Night

Saturday, July 20

6:00-8:30pm

7:00-9:30pm Greek American Night

Saturday, June 29 ...............

Chinese American Night

6:00-8:30pm

Sunday, June 30 ..................

6:00-8:30pm Israeli American Night

JULY

Monday, July 1 7:00-9:30pm German American Night

Wednesday, July 3 ............ 5:30-10:00pm

7:00-9:30pm

7:00-9:00pm

Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway

Sunday, July 21

6:00-8:30pm Bangladeshi American Night

Monday, July 22

7:00-9:00pm

Italian American Night

Thursday, July 25

7:00-9:00pm

Barometer Soup - A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet

Friday, July 26

7:00-9:00pm Doo Wop Show:

Johnny Farina of Santo & Johnny, Phil Cracolici and The Mystics, Vito Picone and The Elegants, Jimmy Gallagher of The Passions

Monday, August 12 .............. 5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: Vinnie Medugno & The Chiclettes

Thursday, August 15

7:00-9:00pm

UB40 : Red Red Wine Tour

Friday, August 16 7:00-9:00pm Zac Brown Tribute Band (ZBTB)

Saturday, August 17............

7:00-9:00pm Doo Wop Show: Manhattan Skyline, Stan Zizka & The Del Satins, Larry Chance’s Earls

Sunday, August 18 4:00-8:00pm

Pakistani American Night

Monday, August 19 ..............

7:00-9:30pm

Ukrainian American Night

Thursday, August 22 ........... 7:00-9:00pm

TD Bank’s Celebrate America Fireworks & Show featuring The Allmost Brothers Band & Chicken Head Rocks

Friday, July 5 Fireworks Rain Date

Saturday, July 6 7:00-9:00pm

So Good – The Neil Diamond Experience

Sunday, July 7 ..................

6:00-8:00pm

Opera Night with Christopher Macchio

Monday, July 8 5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: The Excellents and The Demensions

Thursday, July 11

7:00-10:00pm Rock of Ages Tribute: Shoot 2 Thrill - AC/DC

Completely Unchained - Van Halen Return to Paradise - Styx

Friday, July 12

7:00-9:00pm

Streetfighter – Rolling Stones Tribute

Saturday, July 13

7:00-9:00pm

Misty Mountain – Led Zeppelin Tribute

Sunday, July 14 ..................

6:00-9:00pm Harry Chapin Tribute Show & Food Drive with The Harry Chapin Band and Will Sing For Food

Monday, July 15

7:00-9:00pm The Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra

Thursday, July 18

7:00-9:30pm Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “A Grand Night for Singing” by Plaza Productions

NOONTIME CONCERTS

JUNE

June 19 Stiletto & Saxman

June 26 The Harmonizers

JULY

Saturday, July 27

7:00-9:00pm

The Hilarious Hitmen, a Comedy Musical Spectacular

Sunday, July 28

6:00-8:30pm

Korean American Night

Monday, July 29 5:00-6:30pm

Senior Afternoon Concert: The Fireflies and The Devotions

AUGUST

Friday, August 2 7:00-9:00pm

Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute

Saturday, August 3 ..............

6:30-9:30pm

Salute to Vets Show with Face to Face & American Bombshells

Sunday, August 4

6:30-8:30pm

The Midtown Men featuring Stars from the Original Cast of Jersey Boys

Monday, August 5

Irish American Night

Thursday, August 8 .............

7:00-9:30pm

7:00-9:00pm

Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack

Friday, August 9 7:00-9:00pm 45 RPM

Saturday, August 10

7:00-9:00pm

This is Garth featuring JD Leonard

Sunday, August 11............... 6:30-8:30pm Living Colour

Let’s Sing Taylor - Taylor Swift Experience

Saturday, August 24

7:00-9:00pm Disco Unlimited

Sunday, August 25............... 7:00-9:00pm Don Felder former lead guitarist of The Eagles

Friday, August 30 7:00-9:00pm That Motown Band

SEPTEMBER

Sunday, September 1 ......... 7:00-9:00pm The Purple Experience - Prince Tribute

Sunday, September 8 ......... 5:00-7:30pm Turkish American Night Saturday, September 14 7:30-10:00pm World Renowned Puerto Rican Salsa Orchestra Friday, September 20 ....... 7:00-10:00pm Legendary House DJ TBA with LI’s Own DJ Theo opening Sunday, September 29 2:00-9:00pm Latino American Night

Parks Administration 516-572-0200 For more information: nassaucountyny.gov/parks

WEDNESDAYS, 12:00-2:00PM | EISENHOWER PARK | Parking Field #1

All Events weather permitting. Call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.

July 3 Dennis Dell

July 10 Blue Angel

July 17 Louis Del Prete

July 24 Tangerine

July 31 Johnny Avino

AUGUST

August 7 The Accords

August 14 Cathy Santanello

August 21 Risky Business

August 28 Michael D’Amore

Before the event, be sure to check out Nassau’s top-notch Restaurants, Golf Courses, Beaches and Shopping. Nassau is back and open for business!

SEPTEMBER

September 4 Bob Damato

September 18 Edie Van Buren

September 25 The Tercels

Bring Blankets or Chairs

NASSAU COUNTY SUMMER CONCERTS AND FUN SPONSORED BY

Old World Quality Corp.

Students unveil Mackay Estate art

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

The Roslyn Landmark Society unveiled four student paintings resembling stained glass windows to act as window coverings for the Mackay Estate Gate Lodge during restoration projects and presented a Roslyn High School student with a $1,000 scholarship during a ceremony Thursday.

“Thank you to all the students who worked so hard on this project,” said Mitchell Schwartz, a Roslyn Landmark Society trustee. “The work you did is something that’s going to be remembered by this community for a long time and it’s forever going to be etched into the history of this structure.”

Roslyn High School student and 2023 Gardiner Young Scholar recipient Isabella Santos helped lead the project.

Santos “has done so much work – it’s unbelievable,” Schwartz said.

The high schooler, who is also the daughter of Roslyn Landmark Society Co-President John Santos, dedicated 100 hours of service to the society to fulfill her scholarship. While she said it was the society that approached her with the idea to create student paintings for the windows, she said she took charge of the organization aspect, like securing art materials.

She also painted two of the four faux stained-glass windows. One of her paintings shows pink roses on a blue background through a painted window frame while the other shows blue, green and pink objects that resemble trees on a yellow background through a painted window frame.

Roslyn High School student Hannah Bailey was also involved in the project, painting a river flowing toward large green mountains and a blue sky through a window for her art piece.

Jaime Karbowiak, executive director of the Roslyn Landmark Society, presented Bailey with a $1,000 check for her contributions to the project.

Bailey “is the vice president of the Roslyn

High School’s Art Club, and along with our Gardiner Young Scholar Isabella Santos, was instrumental in seeing the project through to completion,” Karbowiak said.

The landmark society and the Village of East Hills began restoration efforts on the estate in January 2022. The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, a non-profit focused on preserving Long Island history, awarded the Roslyn Landmark Society grant funding in December 2023 to replace the windows and doors.

The Roslyn Landmark Society then contacted the Roslyn School District with the idea to have student artists create paintings to temporarily cover the vacant windows, instead of leaving the building boarded up.

Following the replacement of the windows and doors, the Roslyn Landmark Society is planning to restore the slate roof, install new gutters and gates, update the landscaping, return the roof clock to the middle of the gate and create office and storage space.

The completed building will become a history resource center for the Village of East Hills, Roslyn School District and local residents, Roslyn Landmark Society Co-President Howard Kroplick said.

“It’s been my honor to work with the landmark society trying to reserve the estate,” East Hills Mayor Michael Koblenz said. “There’s a lot of work that needs to be done to bring it back to what it used to look like.”

The estate – a 2,000 square-foot lodge designed in 1899 and built between 1900 to 1902 – was originally part of Clarence Mackay’s Harbor Hill Estate. Mackay inherited the Comstock silver fortune, from the first major discovery of silver in the United States.

In the late 1900s, the property, then known as Country Estates, included a large pool for club members.

Eventually, the pool club dissolved and the long-abandoned pool became an unauthorized and infamous skateboarding park. The pool was demolished in 2022.

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Roslyn High School students Isabella Santos, left, and Hannah Bailey, right, unveil their paintings at the Mackay Estate.

W.P. dentist aspires to better patient care

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

After witnessing patients struggle to find practices that accept their insurance or doctors who will sit with them for more than 10 minutes, Dr. Deepti Gupta made it her mission to create a different and better practice at Essential Dental.

The private practice recently moved to Williston Park and was featured in a segment on “The Donna Drake Show,” where Gupta spoke about the common fear of dentists and the new scanner technology being used in dentistry.

At past practices, Gupta said she was made to feel like a factory worker, with endless patients cycling in and out.

“I felt like in other offices I was being forced to do treatments that I didn’t agree with for the sake of what insurance people had and how much money the practice wanted to make and they were making me see so many patients that the quality of the work suffered,” she said. “I wanted to provide the best quality care despite what insurance anybody had.”

Gupta does not let insurance stand in the way of treatment – her office accepts every form of insurance. While it may not always be easy, her office “fights” it out with insurance companies to provide patients with the treatment they need, she said.

The private practice, originally opened by Gupta in Little Neck in 2011, moved to a new Williston Park location in January. When the lease on the Little Neck building ended, Gupta said she knew she wanted to be closer to her home and 7-year-old daughter in New Hyde Park.

June 15 with gourmet coffee, balloon animals and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Gupta said she hosted the event so residents could pop in to the practice throughout the day to ask questions and chat with practice employees.

The practice is small, employing two dental assistants, two receptionists, an office manager and Gupta as the only doctor. However, patients are able to receive hands-on, personalized care as a result, Gupta said.

On “The Donna Drake Show,” Gupta spoke about the office manager at Essential Dental: “Walter is basically the heart of our practice. When people come to our practice, [they say] ‘We only want to work with Walter.’ He takes care of the patients from the moment they come into the door.”

Gupta said owning her own practice allows her to maintain a high standard of quality control and create consistency. That consistency begins at the start of an appointment – with cleanings.

While many dental practices hire hygienists to perform cleanings, Gupta performs all of the cleanings herself.

“I find that when I do the cleanings, I find a lot of things that I may not find in an exam and I can see how the patient reacts to pain,” Gupta said. “It’s just building rapport.”

“I’ve actually been amazed at what an amazing community it is. It’s very tight-knit,” Gupta said. “The businesses all next to each other are so friendly. We promote each other.”

Gupta said she has already been working well with nearby business owners by swapping coupons to promote at their individual businesses.

In addition to the business community, Gupta said employees in the building department have been particularly helpful and her patients have been “understanding” and “generous.”

To celebrate the move to Williston Park, Essential Dental hosted a grand re-opening on

In addition to having close patient relationships, owning her own practice allows Gupta to perform every procedure in-house. While many other dentists send patients to specialists for surgeries, Gupta said she holds advanced degrees in most dental surgeries and never refers patients to other practices.

Sport Psychology

Dr. Tom Ferraro has specialized in sport psychology for 20 years and works in the fields of golf, tennis, soccer, baseball, football, wrestling, lacrosse, figure skating, gymnastics, softball, fencing and more. He has helped professional teams, Olympians and elite young athletes learn how to manage the intense pressure of competitive sports. He appears on both TV and radio and has sport psychology columns in 5 different newspapers and has been featured in The New York Times, Wall street Journal and the London Times. Golf Digest includes him in their list of top mental game gurus in America. For a consultation see below:

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARISSA G PHOTOGRAPHY

Dr. Deepti Gupta celebrates the opening of Essential Dental with her daughter at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

OUR VIEWS Editorial Cartoon Opinion

Who do town board GOPers work for?

Apparently, North Hempstead Town Board Republicans have a different interpretation of what the “public comment” portion of board meetings means than the rest of us.

How else to explain the treatment of resident Eli Lefcowitz last week when he asked North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena for greater support of the LGBTQ+ community and transgender residents?

Lefcowitz pointed to the town’s decision not to fly the LGBTQ+ pride flag over Town Hall for the entire month of June – as it had done the last three years when the board was controlled by Democrats.

“You would think that the flag’s presence over our town government building would signal that the town is a safe, welcoming, inclusive place for all residents regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation,” Lefcowitz said, “But Supervisor DeSena’s actions speak louder than flags.”

Lefcowitz said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s executive order and a recent bill in the county Legislature that would bar transgender girls and women from playing on female sports teams were attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals in the town.

At a previous board meeting, DeSena said the pride flag would not fly for the full month to create continuity with other recognized holidays that are acknowledged for just a few days.

As an example, she cited Organ Donation Month in April.

To say this is a ludicrous comparison would be too kind.

Encouraging people to donate their organs is a worthy cause. But it does not compare with showing support for the civil rights struggle faced by the LGBTQ community.

Before DeSena could respond to one of Lefcowitz’s points, Town Councilmember Dennis Walsh, a Republican, jumped in with his voice raised to accuse Lefcowitz of being a “political operative” who was part of a concerted effort to attack the su-

pervisor.

“Because you can’t take the fact that you’re not in control of this town board anymore,” Walsh said to Lefcowitz, referring to the Democrats losing the board’s majority in the fall.

We are not sure what Walsh based his claim on that Lefcowitz was being a “political operative” – as if that is something bad.

The only connection Blank Slate Media could find of Lefcowitz being involved in politics, let alone being an operative, was a letter to the editor he submitted on behalf of Democrat Melanie D’Arrigo’s bid for the Democratic nomination for Congress in 2020. Lefocwitz identified himself as a D’Arrigo campaign intern in the letter.

But what difference would it make if Lefcowitz was a “political operative?”

Don’t political operatives have the right to speak during the “public comment” section of town board meetings?

In the past, elected officials of both parties have spoken during this portion of town board meetings—as is their right.

Surely, party affiliation or level of political engagement should not prevent someone from addressing the town board.

Even worse, people commenting at the public comment portion of Town Board meetings should not be greeted by raised voices and accusations of ulterior motives.

This kind of bullying has no place in North Hempstead.

DeSena made matters worse when Lefcowitz asked her to protect LGBTQ+ town residents amid Blakeman’s efforts to ban transgender girls and women athletes from playing on girls’ and women’s sports teams at county facilities.

Blakeman introduced a bill to the county Legislature last week calling for the ban — a month after a New York judge struck down Blakeman’s similar executive order banning

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transgender girls and women athletes from playing on county fields. The New York Civil Liberties Union and a Massapequa women’s roller derby league had argued that Blakeman’s executive order exceeded his authority.

The bans are part of a movement adopted by Republicans across the country with wide popular support. The movement coincides with efforts to reduce protections to the LGBTQ community that go all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and an increase in anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and hate crimes.

Rather than respond to his question asking DeSena if she would enact similar legislation to Blakeman’s, DeSena asked Lefcowitz who he works for.

This is a question rarely, if ever, asked by people speaking during the public comment portion of the Town Board meeting.

Which begs the question: What difference does that make? Would DeSena have answered the question if he worked for the Nassau County Republican Party but not the Nassau County Democratic Party?

REPORTERS

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COLUMNIST Karen Rubin

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Lefcowitz rightly refused to answer DeSena, noting the board does not question every citizen’s employment

Town Councilmember Robert Troiano joined fellow Democrat Dalimonte in defending Lefcowitz. He correctly said Lefcowoitz had the right to speak just like every other resident and asked for board members not to attack him.

“You may not like his comments, but he has the right to talk to the public any time,” said Troiano said. “But there is no right, there’s no obligation on anybody to reveal who their employer is or what their politics are. He’s making a statement that speaks to what he believes, which we should invite every citizen of this town to come and take this opportunity to speak truth to power.”

Troiano called it an “outrage” that board members were unwilling to listen to the resident. He was again right.

But as if to ensure that basic decorum was not observed, Walsh then accused Dalimonte of spreading misinformation by telling residents in an email that the town had taken down

Stacy Shaughnessy, Melissa Spitalnick, Barbara Kaplan, Bill Lucano, Angela Shirian

ART DIRECTOR

Yvonne Farley

the flag and said she was conspiring with residents to raise this kind of issue at the meetings.

Dalimonte denied Walsh’s charge. If Walsh has proof otherwise, we’d like to see it. If not, he should apologize to Dalimonte.

We would have thought it unnecessary to say that in a democracy town officials represent residents and residents have a right to question them in public forums.

But apparently, not everyone in North Hempstead understands how this democracy thing is supposed to work.

So we will repeat that residents not only have the right to question town officials but they should be encouraged to do so as part of their civic duty.

And that residents who exercise their rights as citizens and taxpayers should be treated with respect. This includes not calling them “political operatives,” raising their voices against them or asking them who they work for.

Our question for DeSena and Walsh is who do they think they work for?

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OUR TOWN

New concierge physical therapy in Garden City

Amonth ago, I arrived at my club for our opening day tournament and I noticed a sign that said “Physical Therapist on site today”. I’m old enough and smart enough to know that getting stretched before one plays golf is a really good idea. A few years ago I was working with a talented LPGA player who did extremely well in the US Open the previous week. When she returned home, I asked her what made the difference in her game that week and she said, “My hips were tight and so I used a physical therapist before each round I played.”

When I saw that sign encouraging me to use the physical therapist on site that day, I did so. That’s when I met Dr. Kevin Alves, the owner of Recovery Physical Therapy in Garden City. He worked on me that morning and I immediately noticed a difference in the way I played. He is part of the new wave of physical therapists who are advancing the field.

He told me that golfers often have bad backs due to tight hips and weak shoulder strength. After he worked on me I was given his card and a gift certificate and I promised

myself that I’d go to his new office at 910 Franklin Ave. right here in Garden City.

But as is always the case I got swallowed up in my life and put that gift certificate on my desk never to be thought of again. That is until I played golf with a friend of mine three weeks later and noticed how much better he was playing. He was hitting it longer and straighter.

I asked him if he was doing anything differently and he said “Yeah, I’m going to that guy who came to the club three weeks ago.” Alas, this must have been a sign from heaven offering me a reminder to get myself off the couch and go meet with Dr. Kevin Alves and get my body worked on.

So armed with greater motivation, I called up and asked to meet with Kevin Alves to get to know him more.

When I arrived at Recovery PT, I was greeted by a charming receptionist who was already expecting me. The look of this physical therapy facility is strictly high end and fits in well with the rest of the luxury stores and restaurants in Garden City. Dr. Avles then greeted me and gave me

DR. TOM FERRARO

Our Town

a brief tour of the place. There were two other physical therapists working on patients in a large spacious area with brand new spanking equipment.

We settled into his office and I learned more about him. He is a local guy, born and raised in Carle Place and educated at New York Institute of Technology, which is where he obtained his doctorate. His first internship established his attitude toward physical therapy when he worked with a PT who offered help to professional athletes who, in turn, expect-

ed the best treatment.

Kevin learned from this experience and when he opened his first office in Huntington he made sure he provided concierge treatment which focused on the individual. He was determined to make his practice more humane and not factory-like. He selected his staff carefully and pays them well, which insures that they will be committed to his practice and his style of work with an emphasis on personal attention and time spent with the patient.

He told me about his ACL Prevention Program, which is geared toward the young lacrosse, and soccer players to help them avoid injury.

As a sport psychologist, a significant part of my practice deals with the depressed athlete who has lost his or her sport career due to injury and tears to ligaments in the knee, ankles, elbows or shoulders, so his focus on injury prevention is crucial. I would not be surprised if he finds himself employed by a few of the professional teams in the metropolitan area.

Much of Dr. Alves’ practice is covered by insurance and his calling card and slogan emphasizes three words

“Stretch, Massage and Strengthen.”

His kind of concierge practice with its emphasis on special attention, sophisticated cutting-edge treatment and injury prevention will be future of physical therapy and we are lucky to have him right here in little old Garden City.

So if you are like me, an aging athlete with a sore back and tight hips, give this guy a call and watch your score improve as your pain recedes.

The game of cricket is followed by 2.5 billion fans worldwide.

U.S. House members running for the exits

This is a tale of two cities. One, Washington, D.C., is home to our U.S. Congress. The other one is Albany where our Legislature resides. One city is a place where the elected officials can’t wait to go home. The other is a place where members stay for decades, sometimes staying too long to be effective.

For many years, both houses of Congress were a place where members would come and stay for years and years. There are members like Sen. Charles Grassley(R-IA), who has served in Congress for 40 years and is planning to seek another term which will bring him into his mid90s. As I can last remember, his most recent contribution to our welfare was claiming that IRS agents are coming to your home with AK-47s to collect taxes.

Aside from forever senators like Grassley and Susan Collins(R-ME), there is a new trend taking over in our nation’s capital. Members with only short years of service are flee -

ing in large numbers. At last count 52 members of Congress are leaving, some of whom who resigned weeks after their announcement. The count is 44 House members and eight Senate members who have declared that they will not seek re-election.

Seven senators are going home for good and one is running for governor of Indiana. Twelve House members are running for the Senate and two are running for attorney general in their states. The vast majority of the House members are going home because they are fed up with being in the lower chamber, which is a highly dysfunctional place.

With the exception of a few bipartisan budget bills that originated in the Senate, the current House has done nothing during its current twoyear term. Every bill that the House majority passes is good for a press release and nothing more. None of those bills have any chance of passing the Senate as they are philosophical and have nothing to do with the

against Attorney General Merrick Garland. Garland is accused of defying a subpoena, despite the fact that Republicans Jordan, Perry and Biggs have also defied congressional subpoenas.

Why are House members leaving in such a rush? Almost all of them came to Washington for high-minded reasons, and as they said “a chance to make a difference.” Instead of achieving their lofty goals, they have been forced to sit through congressional hearings with the likes of Marjorie Taylor Greene(R-Ga.), who talks about “Jewish space lasers” and attacks her fellow members.

that will have a lasting impact on the state.

Of the 13 who are retiring, only one, Pat Fahey (D-Albany) is running for the State Senate. The other 12 are leaving for good. If you drive the New York State Thruway every week for at least six months, you can get tired, bored and exhausted. These round trips take a toll on the body and the spirit. Having served for 23 years, I readily can understand their eventual desire to get out of town for good.

needs of their constituents.

When the House majority is done passing its “show bills,” they occupy their time with useless hearings and passing contempt resolutions, attacking members of the Biden cabinet. Their most recent waste of time was passing a contempt resolution

Usually a departing member waits until the end of their term, but many of them are running for the exits, anxious to get back to their families. Unlike Congress, the situation in Albany is much different. Many members stay for 10 or more years, during which time they pass bills that help the people who sent them to the capital. Almost of all this year’s retirees have created laws

It is likely that more members will leave Albany next year, when the Legislature imposes income limits on members. No doubt this will drive out some of the established members, who still have a lot to accomplish but are faced with the demand for a full-time legislature. There is no doubt that sensible and progressive government will continue to disappear in Washington and Albany in the years ahead. That is the people’s loss and it is unlikely to make a comeback.

JERRY KREMER Kremer’s Corner

PHOTO BY TOM FERRARO

Climate disasters with billion-dollar price tags

In the early hours of Saturday morning, the 8th of June, blearyeyed legislators in the New York State Assembly passed the Climate Change Superfund Act by a vote of 9546. The bill will make the fossil fuel industry pay for the costs associated with climate-driven weather events and climate resiliency projects. The Senate had already passed it, so it will now go to Gov. Hochul for her signature.

The bill will force the largest fossil fuel polluters to pay for the damage done to our communities, with a particular focus on vulnerable and disproportionately affected areas, and bear a share of the costs of infrastructure upgrades required to adapt to the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, increasing temperatures, extreme weather events and flooding.

No finding of wrongdoing will be required and the fossil fuel companies will pay $3 billion annually into a 25year dedicated fund because the use of their products has caused the pollu-

tion driving increasingly unstable and more severe weather patterns.

When the National Centers for Environmental Information released its 2023 disaster report, it showed another historic year for the number of billion-dollar disasters, 28 in total with a price tag of at least $92.9 billion. These included wild fires, drought and heat waves, tornados and cyclones, severe storms with flooding, hail and winter storms and cold waves. They reported 492 direct or indirect fatalities.

But there are other costs related to burning fossil fuels that often go unreported. Here in the U.S. we spend approximately $120 billion a year in health costs related to air pollution from burning oil and coal in the form of fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide. Carnegie Mellon University led a study showing increased human deaths as a result of air pollutants emitted by power plants and vehicles. It reported that each year 20,000 people die prematurely

PATTI WOOD Earth Matters

from these exposures.

On a global scale, a new modeling study published in the British Medical Journal says that air pollution from using fossil fuels in industry, power generation and transportation accounts for 5.1 million extra deaths annually.

We’ve become accustomed to paying the bill for natural disasters. When Category 5 hurricanes hit the Gulf Coast or traverse the Atlantic Seaboard, or when tornadoes strike the Midwest or forest fires devastate towns in California, our federal emergency agencies are there, bringing in supplies of water, food, medicine and other necessities required for daily life. But those cases of water, those emergency shelters, those medical supplies cost money, and transporting them costs money, and storing them until they’re needed costs money.

We tend not to ask who’s responsible for these “natural” disasters. The insurance industry has always characterized these extreme weather events as “Acts of God,” but the longstanding assumption that humans cannot impact our weather is being challenged these days. Our homeowner insurance policies are going up, and those of us who live anywhere near the water know that homeowners insurance is becoming much harder to get.

We also don’t think about the cost, of course, when disasters happen. We worry about the people whose lives are upended or prematurely cut short. We think about children swept away by racing river currents or children left without parents when a tornado rips their home apart. We worry about people whose farms are destroyed or whose homes, pets and treasured family belongings are gone instantly, carried up into a dark sky in a ferocious funnel.

No one is predicting that these dangerous and destructive weather events will get better in the near future. And most people are slowly getting use to the new norm — unpredictable seasons and disruption of nature’s cycles, hotter and longer summers, shorter falls and springs and either warmer or frigid winters. And the irony, of course, is that these extremes of temperatures will probably force us to rely on burning more fossil fuels to keep ourselves comfortable.

Biden immigration policy is commonsense

The White Nationalists’ attack on immigrants, their determination to shut down the border completely and deport 11 million undocumented individuals who have been living and working and contributing in the U.S. for decades, is linked to the movement to ban abortions and contraception and force women to bear children, even on pain of death or poverty.

In contrast to the claim that we need to shut down the border because migrants are taking jobs, there are an estimated 8 million job openings that Americans can’t or won’t fill. And if you look around at who is getting the Nobel prizes, becoming our valedictorians and salutorians and winning the national contests, it is almost invariable an immigrant or a child of an immigrant.

On the other hand, the White Nationalists see the need to force women to have babies – preferably Christian ones or at least adopted into Christian homes – to meet the declining birth rate and need for low-cost labor.

This is the “common cause” of Capitalists and White Christian Nationalists. The common denominator between these two seemingly contradictory objectives is cruelty and control.

You only have to remember back to when infants and toddlers were yanked from their mothers’ arms and then purposefully lost in the system – rendered orphans – and children were shoved into cages and detention centers under Trump’s family separation policy that they are more than happy to restore.

From his first day in office, President Biden has made an effort to reverse those policies, reunite families,

while at the same time doing his level best to restore order at the border. This is despite Republicans’ refusal to pass comprehensive immigration reform, which would fund the immigration judges, infrastructure, border agents and technology and would streamline the process for adjudicating asylum claims that now can take six years or more. As it is, 80 percent of asylum claims are rejected. And Biden has just infuriated progressives (and prompted another lawsuit) by imposing a policy to shut the border when illegal arrivals exceed 2,500 a day and to immediately dismiss asylum claims so people are immediately “repatriated.”

This week, exactly 12 years after Obama introduced the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program, President Biden is introducing a policy to help keep families together.

Under this new policy, an undocumented person who is legally married to a U.S. citizen and who has lived in the United States for 10 years as of June 17, 2024, can apply for permanent legal status without first leaving the country and their family for what could be years. Undocumented stepchildren of a U.S. citizen can also apply for legal status.

The president would exercise his authority to grant the undocumented spouses “parole in place,” a designation that would permit them to remain in the country, work legally and gain access to a pathway to permanent residency.

“President Biden believes securing the border is essential and in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together,” an administration official

ens our economy.”

He added. “These executive orders are important, but now we must pass substantial bipartisan legislation.”

The administration estimates the new policy could benefit about 500,000 undocumented spouses and 50,000 undocumented stepchildren of U.S. citizens.

the bill because he wanted to be able to pound the border crisis in his election campaign.

told a press briefing. “Two weeks ago, he announced additional actions to secure the southern border when entry levels are high, after congressional Republicans voted two times against the fairest, most comprehensive reform in decades. Entries are down, repatriations are up.”

Congressman Tom Suozzi, who has long advocated for commonsense, humane immigration reform and was invited to the White House for Biden’s announcement, had appealed to the president to use his authority to address this problem and applauded this proposed action.

“Everyone already believes that if you marry a U.S. citizen, then you become a citizen. For over one million people living in the U.S. for the last 10 years, that has not been the case,” said Suozzi (NY-03). “Today’s action rights that wrong and infuses our businesses with legal labor from neighbors who have lived here for over a decade. It keeps families together and strength-

Providing a legalized status and work permits would go far to address the nation’s labor shortage, spur economic activity, and add to the government’s tax coffers, generating as much as $16 billion in GDP growth. We need more workers to bolster Medicare and Social Security because there are too few workers to support the numbers of retirees who are living longer. It would also reduce the cost and burden on municipalities in providing services.

Biden made this proposal on the 12-year anniversary of the DACA program, which has provided 800,000 Dreamers the ability to work lawfully, pursue an education, open businesses, and contribute their enormous talents to make our communities better and stronger.

But their status is precarious since Trump rescinded DACA in 2017, told Congress to come up with a better plan, and then nixed every plan thenSenate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) proposed until McConnell said he wouldn’t bother.

It’s the same with the Comprehensive Immigration Reform that was so meticulously worked out with Conservative Republicans – which omitted the “poison pill” of any pathway to citizenship in order to make it more salient to Republicans – only to have Trump, yet again, instruct Republicans to kill

“I’m proud of the contributions of Dreamers to our country and I am committed to providing Dreamers the support they need to succeed,” Biden said. “That’s why I directed the Department of Homeland Security to take all appropriate actions to ‘preserve and fortify’ DACA, and that’s why we continue to vigorously defend the DACA rule in court. That’s also why last month, the Department of Health and Human Services took the historic step of expanding access to affordable, quality health coverage to DACA recipients through the Affordable Care Act.”

In a further action, Biden directed Homeland Security to join the State Department to more efficiently process employment-based nonimmigrant visas for eligible individuals, including DACA recipients and undocumented noncitizens, who have graduated from an accredited U.S. institution of higher education.

“By clarifying and enhancing the existing process, the Department of State’s policy will give U.S. employers increased confidence that they can hire the talent they need, and that they will be able to quickly get to work,” the administration said. “We recognize a national interest to making sure people who are educated in the U.S. are able to put their skills (to work) in the U.S. for benefit of our country.”

In a White House press call with Biden officials, the Biden administration expressed confidence that his new policy would withstand the inevitable White Nationalist lawsuits that will come.

VIEW POINT

KAREN RUBIN View Point

Schwartz should be Dem nominee for state Senate

Primaries are a cornerstone of our democracy, empowering voters to directly choose candidates who best represent their values and interests — especially in light of the Nassau County Democratic Party’s recent underperformance. It’s time to remind the party that democracy thrives when “we the people” make the decisions. To defeat Jack Martins in November, we need a strong candidate, and that candidate is Brad Schwartz.

I have known Brad Schwartz his entire life, and I can confidently say he is the best choice for

New York State Senate District 7. Born and raised on the North Shore, Brad has a deep understanding of our community’s needs and is committed to serving all residents. Brad’s dedication is evident through his role as the founding chair of the Sid Jacobson JCC’s Community Needs Bank. His efforts to combat food insecurity demonstrate his unwavering commitment to improving lives.

Unlike typical party politicians, Brad uses politics as a tool for meaningful change, not division. With postgraduate degrees in policy from Johns Hopkins University, Brad is exceptionally

knowledgeable and qualified to serve our district. Recently there was a debate held by the League of Woman Voters where we had a chance to see the candidates one-on-one addressing questions posed by the audience. I have been to a few debates in person and seen scores on TV – I have never seen one where a candidate brought a loose-leaf filled with prepared talking points.

Kim Keiserman seems like a wonderful person, but the debate was a sure indication to me that to win against Jack Martins, you need more then endorsements, you need someone who under-

stands our community and is able to think on their feet.

If the Democrats are to win this seat in November, Brad Schwartz is the clear choice. By all accounts this will be a tight race and the fact that Brad has a third party endorsement, will guarantee thousands of additional votes on the ballot. If you want to flip this seat, please vote for Brad Schwartz on June 25th.

We are appalled by all this antisemitism around us

As reported, pro-Palestinian protesters have boarded New York City subway cars wearing masks and yelling, which has frightened some riders.

There was a law preventing being masked at the protests, and it needs to be brought back. It is time to have a law preventing those

sporting masks at protests.

Added to all that to attack with red paint homes owned by Jewish officials at the Brooklyn Museum as reported in the papers and on TV is just so sad. This is not a protest in my book but just pure vandalism.

My question is were not such acts commit-

ted in Nazi Germany and by the KKK in our own country? All those who engage in these acts of hate and antisemitism must be arrested and pay the price for these evil acts against my fellow human beings.

You see, we are all brothers and sisters created by God to love and respect one another.

As a Catholic and as Grand Knight of St. Anastasia Knights of Columbus Council #5911, we are appalled and troubled by all this antisemitism.

Brad Schwartz is the state senator we deserve

Brad Schwartz is an unparalleled candidate running to represent the North Shore in the New York State Senate. A champion of community and ethical public policy, Brad is the kind of honest and independent leader the North Shore deserves.

A lifelong resident of Roslyn, Brad’s connection and care for the North Shore is deeply ingrained. One reflection of his concern for his community and fitness for public service

is his work for the Sid Jacobson’s JCC’s Community Needs Bank where he is the founding Chair.

Brad has and continues to give back to his community. This includes fighting against local food insecurity.

Brad is a dedicated community candidate whose impact across Long Island has been commended. Amongst Brad’s endorsements is Fred Brewington, Long Island’s most promi-

nent civil rights leader who applauds Brad for being a leader in fighting for equal rights and anti-discrimination.

Brad’s impressive policy qualifications also set him apart as a particularly well legislator.

With his postgraduate degrees from Johns Hopkins and research focus in public policy, Brad brings a wealth of political knowledge, experience, and expertise to the table. He is

a unique, smart and relatable candidate who will push tirelessly for our local interests in office.

The June 25 2024 Democratic Primary is an exciting opportunity for the North Shore to make its voice heard. Brad Schwartz is the right choice for our next New York State Senator.

Prashant Gupta Roslyn

Keiserman right pick in state Senate Dem

primary

Iam very proud to support Kim Keiserman for State Senate, both in the upcoming primary and in the general election this November.

I first met Kim over a decade ago, when we were both volunteers on the Sousa Green Committee. Kim’s daughters were young but she was finding the time to help the community in a positive, constructive way, by making it easier for families to get reusable lunch containers. Environmentally-friendly containers were not as readily available then as they are now and Kim

sought to address that.

Each time I ran into Kim in the succeeding years, it was because she was working on something to improve the lives of people in our community. She brought her incisive intelligence, warmth, and grace to every interaction and every project. We volunteered on more than one political campaign together and she always amazed me with her ability to distill issues down to their fundamental points while still considering all the nuances and variables involved.

Kim is the right representative for our community because she reflects our needs: she will work to protect our waterfront (as already demonstrated by her stewardship of the Baxter Pond Foundation), support public education (as seen by her involvement in multiple school-based volunteer organizations before her girls went to college), and will make sure to be a voice for reproductive freedom and sensible gun laws.

Kim may be gracious, but she is a strong, tough advocate for causes she believes in. I know she

will stand up for our community.

Kim has the endorsements of all the Democratic leaders in our community (Gina Sillitti, Mariann Dalimonte, Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, and more). They all recognize her energy, her commitment, and her grasp of the issues.

I encourage everyone to vote for Kim on June 25!

Dishonor at Town of North Hempstead Board

Iurge all Town of North Hempstead residents to take just 11 minutes to watch the following video segment of the Town Board meeting on the morning of Tuesday, June 11, 2024, when resident Eli Lefcowitz addressed the Board, to see what goes on regularly at our Town Board meetings: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ycCxiEANVa4 .

When our Town supervisor and councilmembers enter the Board chamber to listen to residents who take the time to appear before the Board to express concerns, their job is to check their personal, political, and frankly childish sensibilities at the door, and in the vernacular,

“suck it up and take it” when criticism is offered. Of course, they may respond to questions asked, make corrections when they believe something said was inaccurate and other appropriate responses to the substance of the resident’s comments. Nor should the Board members have to tolerate abusive language from a resident, but there was none from Mr. Lefcowitz, only from Councilman Dennis Walsh and Supervisor Jennifer DeSena in their interruptions and responses.

It is irrelevant what party the resident belongs to, who his employer is or was, how many and what campaigns (if any) he’s worked for,

whether or not he’s there as part of a call to action or politically active, how often he’s appeared before the Board or who may be attending with him, other perceived motivations, or other issues which the resident didn’t raise(“straw man” arguments). As the mature Councilman Troiano wisely pointed out, all residents who come to Town meetings are entitled to respect, uninterrupted time, and civil responses to the points as they were articulated when exercising their rights of civic expression in a democracy, regardless of their politics and without obligation to reveal irrelevant personal details.

The contrast between Mr. Lefcowitz’s polite

and civil speech and the treatment he received in response could not be more stark. Residents of both parties should have no difficulty in vigorously condemning the aggressive badgering, raised voices, nastiness, and bullying by Councilman Walsh and Supervisor DeSena on this occasion, which unfortunately is far from the first occasion and which has no place in our government. Such unbecoming behavior by the two Board members brings dishonor upon our Town, their offices, and themselves.

Robert Yamins Great Neck

Jay Beber Flower Hill

Frederick R. Bedell Jr. Bellerose

Anita Sethi Port Washington

Dem candidate Kim Keiserman is a fighter for us

Even before she declared her bid for state Senate District 7, Kim Keiserman has been a fighter for our Long Island communities.

I first met Kim not as a candidate for State Senate, nor in her role as the president of the Port Washington Democratic Club, nor as a student in one of her classrooms.

I met her as a member of Concerned Citizens of NY-03, a citizen’s group dedicated to the ouster of lying Congressman George Santos (R-NY) from office. My initial impression of her was clear: She was fed up with Santos’s unjust fraud and his enablers in the Nassau County GOP and took up the fight to force him out of our House seat.

As a group member, she was unafraid to call out anyone who sought to protect Santos or delay his expulsion, including in Washington, D.C., for congressional lawmakers to hear.

Since then, Kim has proven time and time again that she is dedicated to the principles of honest governance.

She has opposed forces attempting to make our government less transparent and safer while fighting to ensure that Long Islanders have effective, open and responsive representation.

She will never lose those core beliefs because she believes them in earnest, and she will bring them to a state government in Albany that over the past decade has been mired in scandal.

The word “fighter” has been used by politicians to varying meanings. A bulldog. A party loyalist. A loud mouthpiece. However, a fighter is not someone who holds strong policy positions and is unwilling to come to the negotiating table as it is often portrayed as.

Rather a fighter, in the sincerest form of the word, is someone who is present at the negotiating table and is willing to put in the work to prioritize the needs of their constituents over external forces and special interests. I use the word fighter here to describe Kim in the most sincere way possible: She has repeatedly demonstrated her dedication to Long Island, dedication that comes with actual effort and work.

Now more than ever, Long Island needs

someone to fight for our interests in Albany. Someone who is willing to break with the party orthodoxy and choose their votes carefully to protect Long Islanders instead of voting like current state Sen. Jack Martins does – against reproductive freedoms, against funding for our schools, and against our union workers.

Someone who will focus on putting taxpayers and homeowners first, not someone with a history of playing to our worst fears to stoke division.

State Senate District 7 needs a fighter. We need Kim Keiserman.

Dem candidate Keiserman a voice for gun safety

With an average of over 44,000 Americans dying by guns each year, thousands of others injured, and our children experiencing lockdown drills, it is clear that the United States is facing a devastating epidemic of gun violence, and Long Island deserves a voice that will protect us from this unnecessary, preventable violence.

That’s why I’m voting for Kim Keiserman for State Senate in the SD7 Democratic primary on June 25 (early voting starting June 15).

I got to know Kim through the Port Washington Democratic Club, and I am thrilled but not surprised that her long commitment to sensible gun laws and passionate advocacy against gun violence is such a large part of her campaign and legislative plan.

Kim has put in the work to educate herself and her community about gun safety and the necessary measures to keep guns off our streets. Before seeking elected office herself, Kim worked hard to elect candidates devoted to gun safety.

Now, as a candidate, Kim has distinguished her-

self by taking part in Everytown for Gun Safety’s Demand a Seat training program and bootcamp, learning how to best serve and protect our district from gun violence.

In Albany, Kim promises to work on gun sense legislation that will ensure safe storage, increase training requirements, fund violence interruption programs, track down ghost guns, enforce red flag laws in Nassau County, and stop County Executive Blakeman’s effort to form an untrained, armed, vigilante militia.

Kim’s longtime commitment to gun safety has earned her the title of a Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate, the endorsement of Everytown for Gun Safety, and my vote.

I hope you will join me in voting for Kim Keiserman. We deserve safe schools and communities, free of the fear of gun violence, and Kim is ready to fight for that.

MTA double speak on costs and project completion dates Keiserman right pick in Dem primary

Kim Keiserman has been an involved and energetic community advocate and activist for over 20 years.

Kim Keiserman has earned our vote on Election Day, June 25! And, if you can, vote early!

Eric Cashdan Sands Point

Kim’s dedicated service to the environment and the educational community over this time, as well as her leadership role helping to elect Tom Suozzi are the best predictors of her potential effectiveness as our senator from District 7.

MTA Chairman Janno Lieber is fond of periodically talking about how major capital projects for either New York City Transit, Long Island or Metro North Railroad come in ahead of schedule and below budget. This is a perfect example of double speak. There is always an agreed-upon baseline construction schedule between the MTA and the construction contractor. When a capital improvement project reaches beneficial use or substantial completion and goes into transit service to the benefit of riders, it is usually 98% complete. The 2% remaining work usually does not impact the ability of the MTA in placing this investment into transit service. There may also be outstanding receipt of maintenance manuals for any project component worth $5,000 or more. (This is a legal requirement for any capital improvement project funded by a Federal Transit Administration grant).

There needs to be a complete inspection and acceptance known as a punch list of all project components. Depending upon the complexity of the project, there could be hundreds to several thousand of individual project components. This is to insure that they were built to the projects’ design

and engineering specifications. Contractors may submit requests for reimbursement for change orders which were not part of the original contract or delay claims against the MTA for inadequate track outages or insufficient MTA Force Account (MTA employee support) necessary for completion of work according to the agreed-upon master project construction schedule.

The MTA may file claims for financial credits against a contractor for not supplying sufficient workers to complete a project, based upon the agreed- upon master construction schedule or a reduction in project scope of work. .All of this has to be negotiated between the MTA and contractor before final resolution is reached. After all the above is completed, the MTA will release contract retainage. This is the final payment to the contractor which represents 100% completion of any project. Depending upon the complexity of any capital project, the time line between 98% beneficial use or substantial completion and actual 100% completion can average from six months to a year or more.

The MTA will periodically claim a project has come in below the original forecasted budget. What they neglect to tell you is that this is the cost ac-

counted for on the capital side of the agency budget ledger. The cost of debt service payments, which can last years if not decades, is hidden on the operating side of the agency budget ledger.. If you are honest and above board, you must add both the capital expenditure and long term annual debt service payments on the operating side of the financial ledger. This is the only way you can determine the real final cost of any capital improvement project. Transparency on how the MTA finances the capital program needs to be above board and not hidden.

Commuters, taxpayers, transit advocates, funding agencies such as the city, state and Federal Transit Administration, MTA Board members, city and state comptrollers, MTA, and FTA Office of Inspector General, along with elected officials deserve nothing less.

Larry Penner Great Neck

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a former director for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

Aidan Davis Plainview

Laurie Radler Port Washington

We proudly present the Green Vale Class of 2024. Their remarkable academic accomplishments, coupled with their unwavering character and dedication to their passions, have garnered acceptances from some of the country’s most prestigious secondary schools. As they embark on this new chapter, these graduates follow in the footsteps of countless alumni devoted to making a positive impact on the world.

We congratulate you.

A. | Dylan A. | Lana A. | Ian B. | Madelyn C. | Julian D. | Lily D.

Shayla D. | Lilly K. | Nailah K. | Evan L. | Olivia L. | Alexa L. | Christopher M.

Sarah M. | Oliver M. | Hailey M. | Dylan M. | Shane M. | William M.

Annabelle Q. | Jordan R. | Jackie S. | Christopher V. | Janis V. | Henry W.

Caspar

YOUR GUIDE TO THE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING

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Oyster Bay to host top performers June 27-July 4

From June 27 through July 4, the Oyster Bay Musical Festival once again brings the next generation of world-class musicians to Long Island for a week of mostly free concerts in historic, charming, and unusual landmarks along the Gold Coast.

Maxim Lando, a Long Island native who has made international headlines performing around the world. He has been lauded by the New York Times for his “brilliance and infectious exuberance” along with a certain “wildeyed danger.” Joining him are the German violinist Tassilo Probst and the French/Viennese double bassist Marc André all intend to change the world of classical music. Probst is making a strong presence in Europe’s major concert halls.

ity and vibrant musical spirit, Katz is an astonishing solo bassoonist whose career has catapulted since winning the 2022 Concert Artist Guild Competition.

program titled “When Nature Calls!”

On one program, the piano will be featured with eight hands playing at the same time, and throughout the festival, the OBMF Singers will delight audiences with their unique mix of opera arias and Broadway hits.

Each OBMF concert is an energetic variety show featuring inspiring musical selections from a performing cast of around 25 prize-winning musicians — including vocalists, pianists, strings and wind players. With almost every performer in their 20s, the Festival’s unique style of concert programs present a breathtaking and eclectic approach to experiencing live music that is not to be missed.

The festival’s 13th season features anticipated return appearances by festival favorites and introduces exciting performers making their Long Island debut. The tightly packed eight days include 10 free concerts, two ticketed events, four outreach programs, a public masterclass for flutists, and a pre-concert lecture.

Marc André is redefining the possibilities of the double bass, reaching millions of people through social media with a devoted, international fan base that continues to grow. Also returning to OBMF after several years is National Symphony Orchestra flutist Matthew Ross.

Returning musicians include the pianist

Originally from Long Island, Ross earned top prizes in young artist competitions across the country, many of which he has gone on to judge in recent years. Among the new talent this season is the celebrated bassoonist Eleni Katz and gifted pianist. Joshua Mhoon. Hailed for her virtuos-

Mhoon is a Young Steinway Artist and Silver Medalist at the inaugural Nina Simone Piano Competition in 2023. Other returning favorites include the always popular OBMF Singers, the Zandieh Trio — three Juilliard-trained brothers who grew up in Oyster Bay, and violinist Michelle Stern.

OBMF has developed somewhat of a cult following among its devoted audience members, many of whom try to make every concert. In addition to the varied repertoire and exciting talent featured on each concert, the creative programs also have non-traditional flourishes. A few will feature performances from Dale Stuckenbruck is one of the few musical saw masters left in the world. Teddy Siegel, an OBMF soprano and the creator of Got2Gonyc, will host an evening of bathroom stories, humor, and great music in a

Local institutions serve as the venues, and this season’s “concert halls” include The Wooden Boat Shop, Building Lot J at the waterfront, Christ Church, Raynham Hall Museum, and Congregation L’Dor V’Dor in Oyster Bay; St. John’s Episcopal Church in Cold Spring Harbor; Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock in Manhasset; Cedarmere Estate of William Cullen Bryant in Roslyn, the Red Ballroom of Old Westbury Gardens, and at the 59th Huntington Summer Arts Festival on Chapin Rainbow Stage, Heckscher Park in Huntington.

Every concert is free and no tickets are required, with the exception of two.

Complete concert listings are available at oysterbaymusicfestival.org.

Author Talia Carner to discuss

‘The Boy with the Star Tattoo’

The Adult Summer Challenge Kickoff begins with acclaimed author Talia Carner at the Great Neck Library on Friday, June 28, at 2:00 p.m.

Carner’s new historical novel, “The Boy with the Star Tattoo,” is an epic of ingenuity and courage, of love and loss, spanning postwar France when Israeli agents roamed the countryside to rescue hidden Jewish orphans—to the 1969 daring escape of the Israeli boats of Cherbourg.

Formerly the publisher of Savvy Woman magazine and a consultant to Fortune 500 companies, Carner’s heart-wrenching suspense novels (published by HarperCollins) “The Third Daughter,” “Hotel Moscow,” “Jerusalem Maiden,” “China Doll,” and “Puppet Child” have been hailed for exposing society’s ills.

Dozens of Carner’s award-winning essays, articles, and short stories have appeared in anthologies, literary reviews, and leading websites.

She is a committed supporter of global human rights and has spearheaded projects centered on the subject of the female plight.

A Toastmasters’ Gold Level speaker, she has participated as a panelist or keynoted over 500 events and over 350 Zoom presentations to civic, religious, and cultural organizations.

Carner is a board member of HBI, the Jewish Women Research Center at Brandeis University, and an honorary board member of several anti-domestic violence, child abuse intervention, and anti-sex trafficking organizations.

In November 2023, Algemeiner Media named Carner as one of the Top 100 People Positively Influencing Jewish Life 2023.

This talk will take place at the Main Library Community Room at 159 Bayview Ave. in Great Neck.

No registration is required; seating is first come, first served.

For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Great Neck Library at (516) 466-8055 or email adultprogramming@greatnecklibrary.org.

The Annual Summer Concert

Town summer movie schedule for 2024

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and the Town Board have announced the return of Tuesday Movies in the Park for the 2024 summer season.

Films begin at dusk, and the schedule features a wonderful variety of free movies that are fun for the entire family.

Movies in the Park

• Barbie — Tuesday, July 9 at 8:45 p.m. — Clark Botanic Garden, 193 I.U. Willets Road, Albertson

• Elemental — Tuesday, July 23 at 8:45 p.m. — Charles J. Fuschillo Park, Carle Road & Broadmoor Lane, Carle Place

• Trolls Band Together — Tuesday, July 30 at 8:30 p.m. — Caemmerer Park, Wentworth Avenue, Albertson

• The Super Mario Bros. Movie — Tuesday, August 13 at 8:15 p.m. — Whitney Pond Park, Community Drive & Community Drive E., Manhasset

• Wish — Tuesday, Aug. 20 at 8 p.m. — Martin Bunky Reid Park, Broadway Avenue & Urban Avenue, Westbury

Visit www.northhempsteadny.gov/summer for the Town of North Hempstead Summer Entertainment Calendar or call 311.

Thursday, July 11, 2024 | 7 pm

The Quadrangle at Nassau Community College | One Education Drive, Garden City, NY 11530

The Nassau Community College Foundation cordially invites you to celebrate summer with a concert on the Quadrangle featuring the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening outdoors as our community’s premiere orchestra performs music from Broadway, beloved television shows and blockbuster movies.

General Admission is free but gifts and special seating are reserved for “Friends of Nassau” who contribute to the NCC Fund for Educational Opportunities which provides student scholarships, faculty development grants and supports Nassau Community College campus enhancements.

To register online visit nccsummerconcert.com

Author Talia Carner

North Hempstead summer concert schedule

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and the Town Board have released the 2024 Summer Concerts in the Parks Season schedule.

The shows will be held at parks throughout the town and are free to town residents. The lineup features an eclectic

JULY CONCERTS

mix of musical entertainment from the ’60s right on up to current hits.

“Our Parks Department works very hard to bring some of the most sought-after local cover bands to communities throughout the town,” said DeSena. “It’s just one more rea-

• Us and Floyd Tribute Band — Sunday, July 7 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• The John Fogerty and CCR Tribute Band — Thursday, July 11 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• Tramps like Us (Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band) — Friday, July 12 at 7 p.m. — Manorhaven Beach Park

• New York’s Finest (Sting & The Police Tribute Band) — Sunday, July 14 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• Freebird (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band) — Sponsored by the Lakeville Estates Civic Association, Tuesday, July 16 at 7 p.m. – Clinton G. Martin Park

• The Side Cars (The Cars Tribute Band) — Thursday, July 18 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• Milagro (Santana Tribute Band) — Sunday, July 21 at 7 p.m.- North Hempstead Beach Park

• LI Rewind — Thursday, July 23 at 7 p.m. — Clark Botanic Garden

• Half-Step (Grateful Dead Tribute Band) — Thursday, July 25 at 7 p.m. — Gerry Pond Park

• Larger Than Life (A Tribute to Boy Bands) — Sunday, July 28 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• Just Sixties – In Conjunction with the Roslyn Chamber of Commerce, Tuesday, July 30 at 7 p.m. — Gerry Pond Park

son North Hempstead is the perfect summer playground.” Parks Commissioner Kelly Gillen added, “This is one of our biggest summer lineups ever because we know there’s nothing better than great music with family and friends on a summer night.”

AUGUST CONCERTS

• Radio Flashback — Thursday, August 1 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• Fiesta Tropical Triple M — Friday, August 2 at 7:30 p.m. — Manorhaven Beach Park

• Decadia — Sunday, August 4 at 7 p.m. — Manorhaven Beach Park

• Dr. K’s Motown Revue — Thursday, August 8 at 7 p.m. — Whitney Pond Park

• Wonderous Stories — Sunday, August 11 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• Cold Spring Harbor (Billy Joel Tribute Band) — Tuesday, August 13 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• 45RPM — Sponsored by the Lakeville Estates Civic Association Wednesday, August 14 at 7 p.m. — Clinton G. Martin Park

• The Hambones — Thursday, August 15 at 7 p.m. — Clark Botanic Garden

• Face to Face (Elton John and Billy Joel Tribute Band) — Sunday, August 18 at 7 p.m. — Manorhaven Beach Park

• Who’s Next (The Who Tribute Band) — Thursday, August 22 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

• South Bound LI, Country & Classic Rock Band — Friday, August 23 at 7 p.m. — North Hempstead Beach Park

Visit www.northhempsteadny.gov/summer for the Town of North Hempstead Summer Entertainment Calendar or call 311.

Summer Promenade Nights in Great Neck Plaza

Thursday, June 27

-10:30

Free Community Health Fair Healthy fun for all ages

Saturday, June 22, 2024

(rain date June 23)

11:00 am – 3:00 pm

245 Old Country Road, Melville

Free health screenings

• Blood pressure

Cholesterol

• Diabetes/glucose

Body Mass Index

• Foot screening Healthy eating and nutrition

Kid’s activities

• Coloring

Teddy bear clinic

Catholic Health specialties

Cardiac services

• CPR/First Aid/Stop-the-bleed demonstrations

• Sherpa program

Free Narcan kits available

• Psychological/ Chemical Dependency

Pastoral Care

• Family Care Center

•

• Rehabilitation/Physical Therapy

• Pain Management

• Smoking Cessation Programs Mother/Baby & Lactation

•

•

Additional resources

•

Art on the Edge exhibit at Gold Coat Arts Center

The Gold Coast Arts Gallery will present the exhibition Art on the Edge: Pushing Creative Boundaries.

norms, evolved with changing times, and found its way into mainstream art and culture.

Register

This exhibit highlights how artists associated with this movement continue to evolve, using graffiti’s foundational elements in drawing, painting, sculpture, and installation to honor and elevate their street origins. Join us for the opening reception at Gold Coast Arts Gallery, located at 113 Middle Neck Road, in Great Neck, on Sunday, June 23, at 4:00 p.m.

Urban art has come a long way. The history of graffiti is a testament to the resilience of art in all its forms. From ancient inscriptions to contemporary street art, graffiti has defied societal

The influence of graffiti on modern art cannot be understated, as it continues to inspire artists to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and make their voices heard. As long as there are walls to be painted and stories to be told, graffiti will remain a powerful medium of expression, shaping the art world for generations to come.

Exhibiting artists: Lenny Achan, Chris RWK, Jose Marti, Valeri Larko, Wane COD,Steve Wasterval, Zimad BA, Koz One, and Veronique Barrillot. This exhibit is curated by Jude Amsel. For more information, please get in touch with Gold Coast Arts Gallery at (516) 829-2570.

G.N. Plaza Promenade Night series returns

The highly anticipated Great Neck Plaza Summer Promenade Series is back, bringing the blend of al fresco outdoor dining and entertainment to the heart of Great Neck Plaza.

The series kicks off on Thursday, June 27, at 6:30 PM and continues on select Thursdays throughout the summer.

Enjoy evenings of summer fun, where the community can come together to enjoy the finest dining establishments and performances by some of the region’s top musical groups.

Kicking off this year’s promenades on June 27 on Middle Neck Road is the return of Liverpool Shuffle and Street Fighter, cover bands of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, respectively.

Similar to last year, attendees will vote on who their favorite rock group is between these two iconic bands, with a drawing at the end of the evening for the winner of a $250 gift card.

This year’s participating restaurants include Rothchilds, Grill Time, Shoshaku, Mr. Keke Ramen Hot Pot, and LOL BBQ & Bar on Middle Neck Road, as well as desserts from T-Swirl Crepe and Haagen Daz. On Bond Street, culinary delights will be served by Yahao Asian Cuisine, Dagim, Paprika, Bee-Organic, and Great Neck Diner. Promenades on Middle Neck Road are

scheduled for June 27 and July 11. Bond Street promenades will take place on July 18 and July 25. A final promenade will be scheduled for Aug. 1 with a location to be determined.

“The Great Neck Plaza Summer Promenade Series is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our community that helps everyone feel more connected and proud to be part of Great Neck,” said Ron Edelson, Great Neck Plaza Business Improvement District Executive Director. “Each promenade night includes special entertainment to benefit the whole family.”

In addition to dining and live music, the promenades will feature entertainment options for kids, including bounce houses, photo booths, rock walls, and additional activities, ensuring fun for all attendees.

“The promenades highlight the importance of shopping and dining locally, promoting unity, and supporting our local businesses. We invite everyone to come out and experience the joy and camaraderie that make Great Neck Plaza special,” said Great Neck Plaza Mayor, Ted Rosen. To learn more about the Great Neck Summer Promenade Night Series, visit shopgreatneck.com.

Popular graduation ceremony traditions

Graduation is steeped in tradition. Come the day of graduation, many grads-to-be might be focusing on receiving their diplomas and then celebrating after the ceremony. The hard work students put in affords them every right to celebrate once they’re officially anointed as new grads, but before the party begins it can be fun to reflect on the many traditions associated with graduation ceremonies.

Cap and gown

Graduation ceremonies simply wouldn’t be the same without caps and gowns. The tradition is anything but new, as Columbia University notes caps and gowns have been linked to academia since the 12th century. Back then, students wore gowns and hoods to emulate the clergy who taught them, but also to stay warm. Many universities dressed their scholars in gowns from the 1700s onward. In 1786, one school, Brown University, even mandated that degree candidates be clad in flowing robes and caps at commencement ceremonies. Though educators and students may no longer wear caps and gowns when attending class or around campus, the tradition of doing so at commencement ceremonies has endured.

Tassel turning

The tradition of turning the tassel does not have the lengthy history of the cap and gown, dating back only decades rather than centuries. Graduates typically turn the tassels after everyone has received their degrees during the ceremony. The turn is symbolic of their transition from student to

Congratulations to the 2024 Class of Gold Award Girl Scouts

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn. These 51 young women are courageous leaders and visionary changemakers who are making meaningful, sustainable changes in Nassau County, their communities and around the world. They are our future, and the future looks bright!

Albertson

Aieshah Ashfer

Kayla Rogan

Baldwin

Alanah Angus

Bellmore

Taylor Backman

Kayleigh Reardon

E. Williston

Nayiri Barton

Amelia Crosby

Floral Park

Caralinn Becker

Clara O’Reilly

Franklin Square

Serafina Bruchhauser

Patricia Solomos

Garden City

Grace Dennis

Natalia Gargiulo

Abigail Jesberger

Madeline O’Brien

Kiera O’Leary

Simone Oustatcher

Juliana Rom

Carrie Schneider

Aileen Sullivan

Eva Vitale

Great Neck

Allie Kam

Jericho

Alexandra McCormick

Angela Zhu

Lynbrook

Maya Cullen-Conyers

Manhasset

Olivia Aversano

Sophia Franchetti

Claire LaBenne

Ava Malysa

Sophia Oliveri

Allison Pegno

Massapequa

Alyssa Esposito

Massapequa Park

Kelly Mullooly

Merrick

Abigail Murmane

Mineola

Sabrina Matzer

N. Bellmore

Julia Amon

graduate. Tassels start on the right for high school students and college undergraduates and are then turned to the left, while recipients of master’s degrees and doctorates keep their tassels on the left throughout the commencement ceremonies.

Tossing caps in the air

The tossing of graduation caps in the air is believed to date back more than 100 years. Prior to 1912, graduates of the United States Naval Academy had to serve as midshipmen for two years before they were commissioned as officers. As a result, they still needed their graduation caps. But beginning with the class of 1912, graduates were automatically commissioned as officers, so they no longer needed their hats. That led the graduates to throw them in the air, thus beginning one of the more fun and photo-worthy graduation traditions.

“Pomp and Circumstance”

This tradition marked by the playing of “Pomp and Circumstance” is rooted in the work of William Shakespeare, which makes it seem like a perfect fit for graduation ceremonies. Sir Edward Elgar composed “Pomp and Circumstance” in 1901 and the title for the song was inspired by a line in the bard’s “Othello.” Elgar received an honorary degree from Yale University in 1905, and during that ceremony “Pomp and Circumstance” was played. The song apparently made a strong impression, as it soon began to be played at various commencement ceremonies, a tradition that continues today.

N. Massapequa

Olivia Asencio

New Hyde Park

Brianna Mathews

Old Bethpage

Emma Bronnekant

Plainview

Alexa Mazzamuto

Roslyn Heights

Aryana Patel

Syosset

Aimee Rhee

Hailey Sohn

Valley Stream

Asha Gajraj

Valentina Fratarcangeli

Wantagh

Ashley Divver

Faith Stallone

West Hempstead

Aaralyn Poligadu

Williston Park

Elisabeth Baranello

Brianna Janicek

Madison Rizzo

• 100% of our graduates will attend college including such prestigious institutions as Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Howard University, New York University, Pratt Institute, Princeton University, Rensselaer University, Savannah College of Art and Design, Spelman College, Stanford University,

The Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, University of California—Berkeley, University of California—Los Angeles, Vanderbilt University, Villanova University, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Yale University

• Our students earned more than $47 million in merit-based academic scholarships

• 98% of our students earned the Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation— the highest diploma awarded by the State of New York

• Our students donated over 100,000 hours of volunteer and community service— far exceeding students’ graduation requirements

• 75% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in one or more Advanced Placement Courses

• 82% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in one or more Honors Courses

Gift ideas for high school graduates

The class of 2024 soon will be donning their caps and gowns and receiving their diplomas. After commencement ceremonies, graduation parties will soon follow. For party guests, that means finding the right gifts for grads.

Some high school graduates will continue their studies at colleges and universities. Others may pursue careers in various trades. Still, some graduates may be ready to enter the workforce right away. No matter the direction, these gifts can treat graduates to something special.

Travel accessories

Graduates may want to go on a trip before they take the next step in their lives. Quality travel gear is a worthy investment. Select luggage that won't exceed airport carry-on limits so grads can cut the baggage check lines when they dart away to locales near or far. Carry-on bags also fit easily in bus cargo areas or in the trunks of cars. Pair the gifts with standard or digital luggage tags.

Streaming TV device

While it's certainly possible to watch favorite shows or films on mobile devices, viewing is that much clearer on televisions. Rather than graduates having to invest in cable television wherever they go, streaming devices like AppleTV or Roku are portable, which means they can be used at home, in a dorm room or on vacation.

Secured credit card

Individuals typically are eligible to apply for credit cards once they reach age 18, which is the age most students are when they graduate high

school. Credit cards are one method of establishing solid credit, so it can be beneficial for a teen to have one. But it can be challenging for individuals with no credit histories to get approval. A secured card, according to CapitalOne, is a credit card that requires money deposited with the credit card issuer in order to open the account. This security deposit is held by the issuer as long as the account is open. Often the security deposit is the same as the credit limit. Giftgivers can help establish secured cards for grads by providing the funds for the security deposits.

Wireless earbuds or headphones

Upgrade grads' audio with the newest wireless earbuds or headphones. This way they can take them to the gym or use them to listen to shows or music while sharing spaces with others, including college roommates.

Smartphone wallet case

Teenagers are seldom without their phones. A smartphone wallet case enables graduates to stash IDs, credit or debit cards and some cash into specially designed pockets built into the phone cases. This keeps all essentials in one spot.

Framed memorabilia

Whether a graduate was a star athlete or a premier member of the marching band, giftgivers can provide special memories of time spent in school. Frame ticket stubs, sports jerseys, show programs, or other memorabilia that commemorates a graduate's glory days at their alma mater.

n

Gifts for new college grads about to enter the workforce

The day a student graduates from college is a momentous occasion. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics indicates that more than two million students earned bachelor’s degrees at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year, the most recent year such information was available.

As another graduation season rounds into form, millions more hardworking college students are about to receive their degrees. Commencement will be a big moment for those students and it will also prove a proud moment for their families, who will want to reward graduates with a gift commensurate with this significant accomplishment. As graduates prepare to trade in campus life for the professional arena, well-wishers can consider these graduation gift ideas.

· Attire: Though many businesses have committed to remote or hybrid working in recent years, college graduates will still need something more than hoodies and sweatpants as they enter the professional arena. Professional attire can include anything from suits to business casual clothing. Developing a professional wardrobe can be costly, so gift givers can take new college grads out shopping for attire that can help them make a strong first impression. If distance or timing makes such an excursion impossible, a gift card worth enough money to help grads begin building an impressive professional wardrobe can make for a great gift.

· Tote bag/messenger bag: Traditional briefcases are still around, but many modern professionals now prefer tote bags and messenger bags. Bags with padded pockets that can accommodate 15-inch laptops can be especially useful and help new graduations set a professional tone during interviews and after landing a job.

· Apartment furnishings: Of course, some newly minted grads will already have a job lined up by the time they stroll across a graduation stage and receive their degrees. In such instances, they might benefit from a little help furnishing their first apartments. Some new kitchenware, a gift card to a furniture store or some gadgets like a new smart TV or home speaker system can help a new place feel like home that much sooner.

· Cooking lessons: Now that the campus dining hall is in the rearview mirror, new grads will have to prepare their own meals. Some might be doing so for the first time, so some cooking lessons with a local chef or instruction offered at a local restaurant can ensure new grads aren’t spending the bulk of their earnings on takeout or dining out.

College graduation is an exciting time in a young person’s life. Loved ones can consider an assortment of gifts to make this period even more special.

Diploma display ideas

Graduation day is one of the proudest moments in students’ academic careers. Diplomas are symbolic of hours spent honing skills and working on assignments and, ultimately, success in the classroom. High school diplomas represent an opportunity to go on to higher learning or a trade, while college degrees indicate young people are ready to begin their professional lives.

Many graduates are excited about the prospect of receiving their diplomas. Once in hand, the document can be put on display. The following are some unique ways to showcase diplomas at home or at work.

Framing

One of the classic ways to display a diploma is in a frame. Many businesses offer customized framing where the frame material and the matting can be chosen. Some grads may want to include a photograph of the school or a picture of the graduate above the diploma. Graduates also may want to select a frame and mat that coordinates with school colors.

Create a shadow box

Consider displaying the diploma with other mementos from school. A shadow box is a large, deep display frame that can house items that are thicker than photographs or

papers. Items such as a graduation tassel, medal or other award, a varsity jacket patch, or a program from a school performance or awards ceremony can be placed in the shadow box.

Create a photo wall

Display the diploma among other framed photos from school activities. This can elicit a trip down memory lane every time the wall is viewed. Some families may want to display their diplomas together, especially if multiple family members attended the same school.

Make a work of art

Various online art vendors can turn the diploma into different works of art. For example, engravers can laser engrave the diploma onto a wooden plaque. Then the diploma can be displayed in one location and the wood plaque in another.

Place it under glass

Display the diploma beneath the glass top of a coffee table. When entertaining guests, the diploma can make for a unique conversation piece.

A school diploma is worthy of recognition. There are various creative ways to display these documents that reflect the hard work and success of their recipients.

How to determine if graduate school is the right next step after graduation

A 2021 report from the American Council on Education revealed that more than 1.7 million students were enrolled in graduate education in Fall 2020 at institutions that participated in a survey conducted for the report. A decision regarding graduate school is seldom easy. In addition to the academic rigors of graduate school, tuition is costly. Cost is no small consideration, as the ACE survey found that 43 percent of grad students in Fall 2020 were part-time. Part-time students are typically ineligible for financial aid, which means students will have to pay out-ofpocket or apply for loans to finance their schooling (Note: Lenders may restrict student loans to full-time students.) Paying out of pocket is a significant commitment, as the Education Data Initiative indicates the average cost of a Master’s degree in Business Administration in 2022 was just under $62,000.

Much is at stake as graduates ponder whether or not graduate school is the right next step for them. The following are some factors students can consider as they try to make this decision.

· Professional need: Certain professions require more than a bachelor’s

degree to gain employment. For example, a student who aspires to teach at a college or university will likely need more than a bachelor’s degree. Adjunct professors, who are part-time faculty members hired on a contractual basis, typically need a master’s degree (though a bachelor’s degree and professional experience is sufficient for some positions). A doctoral degree is often a requirement to become a full-time tenure-track professor. When considering grad school, prospective applicants should determine if an advanced degree is a requirement to work in their desired field. If so, the decision is essentially made for them. If not, applicants must decide if the cost and rigorous workload is worth it.

· Candidacy: Another consideration is each individual’s candidacy. Students considering grad school should realistically assess their academic performance as an undergrad. Was the performance strong enough to gain entry into a toptier graduate program? This is an important consideration, as top-tier programs typically have much higher endowments, which means they can more effectively help students offset grad school

costs through grants and other types of financial aid. Students can still gain a lot from grad school if their undergrad performance wasn’t enough to earn financial aid for postgraduate work. But in such instances, students may need to finance the degrees on their own.

· Earning potential: Earning potential also merits consideration. As noted, some professions require postgraduate degrees. But many do not. However, that does not mean students have little to gain from earning an advanced degree in a field where no such degree is required. For example, a recent analysis from the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that the average starting salary for individuals with a master’s in Finance was 15 percent higher than the average starting salary for individuals with just a bachelor’s degree. The same survey found that a master’s in Computer Science translated to a 32 percent higher starting salary than a bachelor’s. In such instances, a master’s could be well worth the investment.

Recent college graduates can consider a host of variables as they try to decide if graduate school is the right next step after receiving their degrees.

Did you know?

The number of bachelor's degrees awarded by colleges and universities has increased considerably in the twentyfirst century. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, roughly 1.238 million bachelor's degrees were awarded by colleges and universities in 2000. By 2021, that figure had nearly doubled, reaching 2.066 million. The

number of students who earned associate's and master's degrees also grew by considerable margins between 2000 and 2021, with each nearly doubling. Doctorate and professional degrees remained a little more steady, though the number of students who earned each increased from just under 119 million in 2000 to 194.1 million in 2021.

“Big

‘Beatles on the Balcony’ at LI Music Hall of Fame

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame will hold a free concert entitled “Beatles on the Balcony” featuring The Liverpool Shuffle (a popular Long Island-based Beatles tribute band) on June 30 starting at 3 pm at LIMEHOF’s Stony Brook museum location (97 Main St., Stony Brook).

“The Beatles have multiple ties to Long Island, from their concerts at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium (1964) and Shea Stadium (1966), to John Lennon’s residency in Cold Spring Harbor in 1979 (the summer before his murder), Paul McCartney’s current home in the Hamptons, and Paul and Ringo’s continued performances at venues across Long Island,” said LIMEHOF Chairman Ernie Canadeo. “We are excited that the first concert held on our balcony follows in the tradition of the Beatles legendary last live concert for the “Let It Be” sessions, held on the rooftop of Apple Corps.”

This is the first free concert from the LIMEHOF balcony and will be viewable from the parking lot. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

$10,000 in Scholarships to Be Awarded to High School Seniors

The concert will be preceded by the formal awarding ceremony of ten $1000 scholarships to 10 graduating students from across Long Island. There will also be one Pat DeRosa Memorial Scholarship awarded as well.

This is the first year that LIMEHOF has expanded its scholarships to include not only music but also the performing arts.

“We are thrilled to award these scholarships to such talented and dedicated young musicians,” said Tom Needham, LIMEHOF’s educational programs director. “Supporting the next generation of music students as they embark on their college journeys is at the heart of our mission. These scholarships not only recognize their hard work and passion but also reinforce our commitment to nurturing musical talent and education within our community.

We can’t wait to see what these young people will accomplish in their musical careers.”

LIMEHOF has awarded tens of thousands of scholarships to Long Island high school students since its inception. The students submit applications that are judged by LIMHOF’s education committee, chaired by board member Tom Needham. This year had a record number of applications received.

The awarding of LIMEHOF High School Music and Performing Arts Scholarships will start at 2:30 pm. The Beatles on the Balcony Concert and High School Scholarships are sponsored by Catholic Health, PSEG, and Eisner Amper.

For more information about this and other upcoming LIMEHOF events, please visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/events/.

The Art Guild hosts members showcase

On Friday June 7, The Art Guild of 200 Port Washington Blvd. held a juried art competition and exhibition reception “Members Showcase.

This exhibition is special because the artists who submit are members of The Art Guild, therefore making this particular exhibition reception one of the most anticipated and largest one of the year.

A hundred pieces of art were submitted and hung in time for the reception, where approximately three hundred guests were in attendance. All mediums were welcome, including drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

In first place came Alice Riordan’s “Melancholy.” Second place went to “Memorial To A Tree” by Silvia Maria Rey. In third place was Janis Hurley’s “Grevy’s Zebra Stripes”. Thank you to Juror Alex Ferrone for selecting and awarding the winners.

On behalf of The Art Guild’s co-founder Terri Shkuda, every year during the “Members Showcase” an award is given in her name to someone that has broadened creative pursuits.

This year, the Terri Skhuda Award went to Mary Behling. “Mary has grown tremendously as an artist since she has joined The Art Guild a few years ago.

But she is the recipient of the award this year not only because of her artistic growth and abilities, but because of her attitude. She is the first one to offer her services when no one else has.

But that’s not all. Creativity is not just shown on the canvas, but also in the kitchen and you have all tasted it. She has brought so much to the table, artistically and physically with all the food she cooks and provides for our receptions,” said Ilene Silberstein, presenter and Board Member of The Art Guild.

In addition, as a one time special honor, we presented an award given in memory of Peter Dejana, who has been a tremendously generous supporter of The Art Guild for years.

To honor his legacy, the Art Guild wanted to award someone who’s shown the same desire to support the community. This certificate of recognition was given to Tracy Lefkowitz, who has worked tirelessly with the Nicholas Center and Littig House.

During the “Members Showcase”, The Art Guild also showcased and awarded scholarships to three high school seniors from a vast pool of applicants all over Nassau County.

The scholarships were awarded to those seniors that would be pursuing the visual arts in their future after high school and display a strong commitment to art in the present.

The funding of this wonderful opportunity comes from the Kazickas Family Foundation, allowing each winner to receive $1,000. The foundation has been sponsoring this scholarship for six years now.

“The Kazickas Family Foundation comes to support young people in educational paths. Our belief is that the arts play an integral part of our history and culture.

Art can express ideas that otherwise may not be communicated and has the power to incite change. We are honored to support these talented students and the bright futures ahead of them,” said Marceil Kazickas.

Upon submitting their portfolios of five works, along with brief descriptions for each, a judge reviews the seniors’ applications and selects three winners.

For the 2024 scholarship, Emily Martin judged the applications and selected Shane Adams from Wantagh High School, Alden Kisner from Cold Spring Harbor High School, and Avery Ko from Great Neck South High School.

Emily Martin commented on Alden Kisner’s beautiful technical skills and his great sense of color and composition.

What stood out to her from Shane Adam’s portfolio was how great of a story teller he was, articulating personal experiences when reflecting on his pieces.

Avery Ko’s portfolio wowed Emily, “impeccable execution, beautiful technical abilities in all facets of sculpture, building, and drawing/painting”.

“The Art Guild is thrilled to be a part of the growth process these students are taking their futures in the Arts. We love to showcase and support their talents for the entire community to view and appreciate,” said Katie Bellomo, Gallery Manager at The Art Guild.

A special thank you to Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jen DeSena and state Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti for awarding proclamations to the three talented high school artists.

The guilds next juried competition and exhibition is “Wanderlust.” The exhibition reception will be held Sunday, Sept. 8.

In the meantime, the guild is offering a dozen workshops for adults and Summer Canp for kids over the summer so that you can explore your creativity.

They fill up quickly so register today at www. theartguild.org or call 516-304-5797. More workshops/camps are added all the time so check the website. The TAG team looks forward to welcoming you to our family!

COURTESY OF LONG ISLAND MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT HALL OF FAME

LI Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame will host ‘Beatles on the Balcony’ featuring The Liverpool Shuffle.

Avery Ko of Great Neck South and North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena.

Fri 6/21

LEON & THE PEOPLES: Soulful Freedom Juneteenth Concert

@ 6pm Tanner Park, 400 Baylawn Ave, Copiague

Midsummer Nights

@ 6:30pm / $20

Jun 21st - Jun 23rd

Midsummer is the longest day of the year and was long consid‐ered a magical night. So, what better place to celebrate these stars of nature than in a gar‐den? Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old West‐bury Road, Old West‐bury. mramirez@old westburygardens.org, 516-333-0048

Lauren Jaimes

@ 7pm

Lilly's of Long Beach, 954 W Beech St, Long Beach

Brooklyn Cyclones vs. Jersey Shore BlueClaws @ 7pm Maimonides Park, Brooklyn

Morgan James: Jeanne Rimsky Theater - Port Washington, NY @ 7pm

Jeanne Rimsky Theater, 232 Main St #1, Port Washington

Celebrate the Inaugural Long Island Yoga Festival at Buddha Jams

Yoga This June @ 10pm / $299 Jun 21st - Jun 23rd

From Fri June 21st to Sun June 23rd. Buddha Jams Yoga, a retreat for yogis and music lovers, will open its doors to a select group, offering 70 spots for an immer‐sive yoga experience

Buddha Jams Yoga, 192 Glen Street, Glen Cove. jason@buddha jams.com, 516-5487168

Sat 6/22

The Rainbow Run 5K @ 10am / $30 Eisenhower Park - Field 2, Parking Lot 2, East Meadow. events@elitefeats.com

New York Liberty vs. Los Angeles Sparks @ 3pm / $21-$1100 Barclays Center, Brooklyn

Deep Roots Farmers Market Glen Cove @ 9am

Opening Day of the Deep Roots Farmers Market in Glen Cove

Saturday, June 1st, 9AM-1PM. Garvies Point Park, 100 Garvies Point Road, Glen Cove. info@deeprootsfarmers market.com, 516-3185487

Artist in the Gallery: Rodney Alan Greenblat @ 3pm / $15

NCMA's Artist in the Gallery: Rodney Alan Greenblat, Saturday, June 22, 3pm, Free with Museum admis‐sion Nassau County Museum of Art, One Museum Drive, Roslyn. events@nassaumu seum.org, 516-4849338

Sun 6/23

Great Neck Farmers Market @ 10am

Shop small and shop local at the Great Neck Farmers Market Fire‐�ghters Park, 30 Grace Avenue, Great Neck. info@deeprootsfarmers market.com, 516-3185487

Saturday Jun 22nd

Catholic Health's Free Community Health Fair @ 11am

Catholic Health Melville Location, 245 Old Country Road, Melville. 516-705-3839

Healthy fun for all ages. Health screenings and resources from Catholic Health specialists. Kid's activities. Giveaways. Walk-ins welcome. Register for a free gift.

Katie's Run 5K | 2mi Fun Run/Walk | Children's Fun Run @ 10am / $25

New Hyde Park Funeral Home, 506 Lakeville Road, New Hyde Park. events@elitefeats.com

Live at Five Presents ScienceStock Music Festival @ 1pm / $15 Brought to you by Live at Five and the Science Museum of Long Is‐land! A perfect fusion of the vibrant energy of live music with the won‐ders of the natural world and scienti�c dis‐covery. Science Mu‐seum of Long Island, 1526 North Plandome Road, Manhasset. liveat �ve@smli.org, 516-6279400

In Conversation with Ruth Ben-Ghiat & Errol Louis followed by Book Signing @ 3pm

SCW Cultural Arts at Emanuel presents In Conversation with Ruth Ben-Ghiat moderated by Errol Louis followed by a Book Signing, Sunday, June 23rd at 3:00PM Temple Emanuel of Great Neck, 150 Hicks Lane, Great Neck. missy150@opti mum.net, 516-482-5701

A Bronx Tale - One Man Show Starring Chazz Palminteri @ 7:30pm / $49.50-$99.50 The Paramount, Huntington

Gold Coast Arts Gallery presents Art on the Edge Exhibit @ 4pm Opening Reception for Art on the Edge: Push‐ing Creative Bound‐aries on June 23, at 4pm Gold Coast Arts Center, 113 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck. info@goldcoas tarts.org, 516-829-2570

Mon 6/24

Smith Street Color Run 2024 @ 9am / $20 780 Smith Street, Uniondale

Tue 6/25

June 25 Girls Basketball Camp @ 9am / $300 Jun 25th - Jun 28th Manhasset High School, 200 Memorial Place, Manhasset. 516-356-2284

Wed 6/26

Hicksville Summer Carnival at Broadway Commons @ 5pm Jun 26th - Jun 30th

This family-fun annual event features thrilling rides for all ages and favorite fair food. Free admission and parking. See website for advance savings on rides and discount coupons for rides and food. Broadway Commons, 358 North Broad‐way, Hicksville. 866-666-3247

Adult Lecture: Following Flavors: How Food Storytelling Brings History to Life @ 7pm / $20 Tonya Hopkins, a.k.a. “The Food Griot,� re�ects on how everyday foods can spark deep investigation into the rich con‐texts that created them. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old

Westbury Road, Old Westbury. mramirez@oldwestburygar dens.org, 516-333-0048

Los Straitjackets @ 7pm Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St, Port Washington

Nick Lowe @ 7pm Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St, Port Washington

New York Mets vs. New York Yankees

@ 7:10pm

Citi Field, Flushing

Thu 6/27

Making Memories with Music at Gold Coast Arts @ 11am

Making Memories with Music featuring Mark Danti! Gold Coast Arts Center, 113 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck. caro line@goldcoastarts.org, 516829-2570

Pride Anthems @ 7:30pm / $30

A vibrant musical experience that celebrates the legacy and power of the Stonewall Riots. Tilles Center, LIU Post College, 720 Northern Boulevard, Greenvale

Empire State Fair @ 5pm / $10

Jun 28th - Jul 14th

This family-fun event features thrilling rides, four nights of �reworks and other live enter‐tainment (included with fair ad‐mission), and favorite fair food. See website for advance sav‐ings on rides. Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Union‐dale. 866-666-3247

Get the Led Out @ 8pm / $30-$75 The Paramount, Huntington

Calendar information is pro‐vided by event organizers. All events are subject to change or cancellation. This publica‐tion is not responsible for the accuracy of the information contained in this calendar.

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FCA to hold annual scholarship breakfast

Family and Children’s Association will hold its 39th Annual Scholarship Breakfast on June 25 at Nassau County Community College in Garden City.

The event, which will begin at 8:30 a.m., celebrates shared accomplishments and inspiration. Attending the breakfast will be government officials, educators, FCA supporters, and friends and family of the scholarship recipients.

A highlight of this year’s event will be a keynote address from the “Unstoppable” Anthony Robles.

Despite being born with only one leg, Robles is the 2011 NCAA individual wrestling national champion in the

125-pound weight class and a threetime All-America wrestler. He is the author of “Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated: How I Became a Champion.” New for this year, all attendees are invited to interact with and contribute inspirational, positive quotes or words of wisdom and share them on FCA’s “Wisdom Wall.”

In addition, through a collaboration with Little Words Project, which creates inspirational bracelets popularized by Taylor Swift and other celebrities, FCA will have available a limited edition “Unstoppable” bracelet in honor of the 2024 Scholarship recipients.

One hundred percent of the profits will go directly to FCA and benefit the more than 35,000 Long Islanders they help every year.

FCA’s Annual Scholarship breakfast celebrates the generosity of scholarship donors, the extraordinary achievements of the scholarship winners, and the dedicated staff who administer the program.

As part of the breakfast program, scholarship recipients are encouraged to meet the FCA donors who help make their education journey possible, gaining further opportunities for career insights and guidance.

Numerous studies report that a

child’s ability to learn is negatively impacted by family stress resulting from trauma, poverty and unemployment. FCA’s scholarship breakfast helps support the aspirations of at-risk youth who wish to pursue higher education despite years of struggle.

Over three decades, FCA has gifted more than 1,500 scholarships collectively worth over $2,000,000 to students engaged with FCA’s programs and services, enabling at-risk teens to pursue higher education and improve their lives.

In 2023, 35 students received scholarship support; this year, 45 students will receive scholarships.

Sands, college fund select 15 for immersion program

Las Vegas Sands and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund have announced that 15 students representing 10 historically black colleges and universities from around the country have been selected to participate in the second annual Sands Hospitality Immersion Program, June 16-22 in Las Vegas.

Sands and TMCF, the only national organization exclusively representing the black college community, established the Sands Hospitality Immersion Program to encourage interest in travel, tourism and leisure by exposing HBCU students to the inner workings of the Las Vegas hospitality industry.

The 15 rising junior and senior students selected for the exclusive summer program include Joshua Lee, Alabama A&M University; Waneysha Louissaint, Bethune-Cookman University; Tori Carlisle, Coppin State University; Fatima Diallo, Eli Pearson, Salimah Scott and Morayo Adeyemi, Howard University; Mya Mendoza and Denise White-Scott, Morgan State University; Hizikiel Holloman and Trevor Elliott, North Carolina A&T State University; Christian Nettles, North Carolina Central University; Zora Cunningham, Tuskegee University; Malaysia Jones, Virginia Union University; and Darryl Quick, Jr., Winston-Salem University.

Students are studying a range of majors, including business, computer science, communica-

tions, finance, hospitality management, information technology, marketing, sales, and supply chain management.

They will receive a deep introduction to the travel, tourism and leisure industry and itswide range of professional positions to inspire them to consider one of the world’s fastest-growing and largest employment fields.

“As a sales and marketing major, this experience will help me to better understand customer engagement,” said Zora Cunningham, a Tuskegee University student and immersion program participant. “By understanding this crucial practice in hospitality, I can apply these strategies to broader marketing efforts. This experience will also help me build valuable connections, gain practical insights and develop a deeper appreciation for personalized service and attention to detail.”

The multi-day experience is being curated by the Harrah College of Hospitality’s Sands Center for Professional Development at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Program elements include on-campus learning sessions with college faculty, industry speakers, and interactive activities such as a cooking competition led by the college’s executive chefs. Over the course of the program, student participants will receive special insider tours of integrated resorts, conven-

tion spaces and sports venues.

In addition, students will visit Sands’ corporate headquarters to hear from professionals who will outline their experience in a wide range of disciplines and provide insights into the realm of professional services within the hospitality industry.

The travel, tourism and leisure industry continues to experience tremendous job growth and encompasses many professional positions. Beyond traditional hospitality tracks in hotel operations or restaurants, meetings and venue management, the industry offers career opportunities in finance, marketing, sales, human resources, information technology, legal and other professional service fields.

“The Sands Hospitality Immersion is a transformative initiative designed to give HBCU students unparalleled access and exposure to the dynamic hospitality field. This program not only broadens their career horizons but also equips them with the essential skills and networks needed to thrive in a competitive industry.

By fostering a deeper understanding of hospitality, we are empowering the next generation of leaders to drive innovation and excellence in this vital sector,” said Tristin Rainey, senior manager of learning and talent at TMCF.

Sands established the Sands Hospitality Im-

mersion Program as part of the Sands Cares global community engagement program.

It is one of the company’s many education and workforce development initiatives, which include contributions to and partnerships with higher education institutions, funding for scholarship programs, on-property and industry-supported training opportunities for students and hospitality professionals, and mentorship and instruction from company leaders and experts.

“The Sands Hospitality Immersion Program advances two of our core initiatives – helping to build a highly skilled, diverse workforce in the hospitality industry and fostering opportunities and advancement for young people from traditionally underrepresented groups,” said Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate affairs, who spearheads corporate responsibility initiatives at Sands. “We hope this unique experience will inspire this talented group of students to consider the many opportunities the hospitality industry offers.”

To learn more about the Sands Cares community engagement program and Sands’ focus on developing the workforce of the future, visit https:// www.sands.com/responsibility.

To learn more about Thurgood Marshall College Fund, visit https://www.tmcf.org/.

My Spectrum student accepted at Dalton School

Willa’s highly educated parents, mom a doctor, dad a lawyer, researched schools and discovered My Spectrum School based on its innovation in education, prominent teachers, the implementation of the philosophy of Harvard University’s H Gardner theory of multiple intelligences and Reggio Emilia philosophy of education.

The family moved from Chicago to Port Washington and immediately enrolled Willa and, later, Ty into My Spectrum School.

A cute young girl named Willa began her education journey at My Spectrum School at the age of 18 months. She discovered the domains of knowledge: science, art, music, literacy, movement, and social understanding and quickly delved into an academic wonderland.

By two years old, Willa was writing and recognizing letters and numbers and was fascinated by the world of science. Willa was mesmerized by

the lights and sounds in a fun enriched learning environment within a continuous vacuum of knowledge. At three years old she became proficient in drawing and painting techniques and began reading and writing books. Her favorite authors are Dr. Seuss and Eric Carle and books ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar,’ ‘Cat in the Hat’ and ‘Wacky Wednesday.’

Willa assists her peers in solving intricate number and word puzzles. She often played in social settings pretending to dress up, become a chef, and write the day’s menu with her best friend Sam. She built large architectural structures with various blocks. At age four, Willa became more infatuated with her mentor and teacher, Mr. Jason. Willa listened to every word spoken by Mr. Jason, from embarking on the Jurassic period of dinosaurs to the colony of bees, to the tunnels of ants, to the roots of flowers in botany,

to the planets of astronomy, to the human body in anatomy, and beyond.

Willa enjoys mathematical concepts- skip counting, multiplication, addition, subtraction and fractions.

Today, at age five, Willa is a beautiful, intelligent young lady with an enticing smile of joy and education. She excels in the domains of knowledge, with an ultimate interest and high ability in science.

The application and letters of recommendation to The Dalton School in New York City helped Willa’s acceptance into this prestigious facility but do minimal justice to our Willa, who we cherish and will miss; the staff, especially Mr. Jason, wishes Willa’s continued love of learning and knowledge, for understanding.

Thank you to Willa’s parents and Willa for teaching and sharing kindness, resilience, perseverance, patience, and love.

We wish you success at the The Dalton School.

Town should reconsider proposed Port police station

Iam writing to express my concerns and objections regarding the proposed $30 million police station project in Port Washington.

While I understand the need for updated facilities, the current proposed location and scale of the project raise several issues that need to be addressed.

Location Concerns:

Traffic Congestion: The proposed location is at an intersection already rated “D” for congestion by engineers. Adding a large police station in this area will only exacerbate traffic issues, particularly during rush hours, making it difficult for residents and emergency vehicles to navigate.

Neighborhood Impact: Placing a police station in a quiet residential area will disrupt the peace and safety of our neighborhood. Increased traffic, noise, and constant movement of police vehicles will negatively impact the quality of life for residents and may decrease property values.

Demolition of Abandoned Houses: The plan to tear down abandoned houses to create a parking lot with 67 spots raises further concerns. This destruction of residential properties for parking is not in the best interest of our community.

Unanswered Questions: There are several unanswered questions about the project:

— Where will the radio tower be located?

— Where will heavy equipment be stored during the winter?

— What will be the impact on local infrastructure and services?

Financial Concerns:

Bond Issue: The $36 million bond issue for this project, which we taxpayers will pay for, was decided without our input. There is a lack of accountability regarding the purchase from the reserve fund. Where did these reserves come from, and why were taxpayers not consulted?

Future Costs:

Commissioner McCarthy’s statement that the project will be pursued again next year if not approved now, with even higher costs demonstrates a disregard for fiscal responsibility. The community should not be pressured into accepting this project without thorough consideration and transparency.

Practical Need:

Size of the Building: For a small town like Port Washington, a building of this size is unnecessary. With a population of less than 20,000, the need for a police department of 80 personnel, including civilian and police employees, is questionable. Has a study been conducted to determine the actual need for such a large facility? Is crime truly an issue that warrants this expansion?

Purpose of the Building:

This proposed building is not a community center or information hub for Port Washington. It is intended solely as a police station. While the police department’s community activities are commendable, they do not justify the construction of such a massive building. The wonderful community engagement does not necessitate going into significant debt for a structure far larger than any other in town.

In conclusion, I urge the Town of North Hempstead to reconsider this project. The proposed location is unsuitable, the financial burden on taxpayers is unjustified, and the actual need for such a large facility has not been demonstrated. I respectfully request that the council does not approve the $36 million bond issuance and instead explores more suitable options that address the community’s concerns and needs.

Kim Keiserman the right choice for state Senate

It is thrilling for me to vote for Kim Keiserman for New York State Senate because I have seen firsthand her ability to listen to others, advocate with enduring commitment, and diligently work toward improving her community. One cause that is clearly near and dear to her heart is her dedication to strengthening our public schools. Kim’s informed, balanced and persistent advocacy in Port Washington has truly helped to strengthen our school district in order to support the needs of all of our children.

Over the years, Kim and I worked closely together through AGATE (Advocacy for Gifted and Talented Education), and she and I connected deeply around a number of issues in education,

including the importance of improving opportunities for first-generation students. Kim’s leadership in AGATE pushed the organization to advocate for broadening enrichment opportunities for all students, as well as creating greater equity in our academic programs.

Concerned about the diversity in gifted education in Port Washington, she pushed to improve the screening process for our fourth through sixthgrade gifted program to be more inclusive to ENL students, and raised questions around equity at every chance she could. She made sure to invite a speaker to address DEI in Gifted Education, which was a successful district-wide event. In addition, Kim made trans-

lation services a top priority and ensured that AGATE events shifted to become more open and accessible.

During my time volunteering with Kim, I have gown to have great respect and admiration for her not only as a fierce supporter of our public schools, but also as an unwavering leader who clearly sees the purpose of public education in meeting the needs of everyone, no matter what their unique needs are. Rather than pitting one group against another, as if we are all playing a zero-sum game, Kim understands the big picture and works toward better outcomes for all.

Her work in the Port Washington commu-

nity has given her a front row view to not only the challenges within our schools but the great opportunities our public schools bring. Having closely followed the budget process for so many years, Kim is also well-versed in the very serious financial hurdles our schools face in order to educate our students. Above all, Kim appreciates that diversity brings strength to our public schools and with this core belief we will certainly be well-served with her in Albany. Join me in voting on June 25 for Kim Keiserman, a fierce advocate for our public schools.

Nancy Ziselman Port Washington

Do unto others biblically speaking: legal homicide

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” in the most basic terms means to treat others the way we want them to treat us. That’s the Golden Rule from the Bible, Luke 6:31. Most scholars date the composition of the work to sometime in the first century, 80 — 90 AD. However, after some 2,000 years, the application of that rule seems to have become somewhat different, more in line with current times.

For instance, let’s take a look at the hush money trial of Donald Trump where the jury found him guilty. The jurors did their civic duty by serving on the jury. Judge Juan Merchan interpreted the laws to determine how the trial would proceed to ensure fairness so that the parties legal rights are protected. But for just doing their jobs, death threats were made against the judge, his family and the jurors.

For supporters of Trump, this has become a common practice against anyone who opposes

Trump for any reason. Those carrying out such threats include gangs like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. In today’s times, how should applying the Golden Rule be different from its original interpretation? Do unto others as they do unto you. This suggests a form of equality. Could this be interpreted to mean negative as well as positive, such as to reciprocate against those who made threats and actions against you because they opposed what you believed to be right.

Realistically, those injured parties have been hurt by policies made by Trump and his gangs of enforcers, by the Supreme Court justices who favored the Dobbs v. Jackson decision and by those representatives from the states who took abortion-denying even further: denying remedy to women whose lives were in danger that eventually led to injury or death.

Do unto others can also apply in a legalistic

manner. Trump’s gang of lawyers have prevented or delayed him from going to trial regarding his three legal cases as follows:

1-Being accused of keeping classified documents, for reasons unknown. Speculation includes using them as a bargaining chip with the Russians to help him win re-election, perhaps even to the point of becoming treasonous.

2-Election interference regarding the peaceful transfer of power that led to insurrection, the January 6th attack on the Capitol.

3-Election interference to thwart proper certification of Georgia’s presidential election result.

Will the above cases ever go to trial? Can other cases be made that can bring about satisfaction? Can reciprocation based on the principle of the Golden Rule, do unto others, be interpreted more in line with current times? Let’s switch to legal and talk homicide, defined as an

act in which a human causes the death of another human.

Once again, let’s look at the Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson decision denying the woman’s right to abortion together with the states that took it even further, denying abortions even when a woman’s life was in danger and where such lack of action led to death. The justices of the Supreme Court who supported the decision and the individuals in states who passed legislation that went even further, should all be held responsible for such a woman’s death.

An act in which a human causes the death of another human fits precisely the definition of homicide and all should be charged. Don’t just scare them. Send them all to jail. Do unto others! It sounds so legal.

Keith Fiveson Port Washington

Alvin Goldberg Great Neck

Business&RealEstate

Pre-inspection can save money and sale

By now, you will have already noticed that I finally realized that my photo was outdated and a new one needed to be considered as the unfortunate process of living changes how we appear, so I found it appropriate to follow through and be cognizant of my new me, lol

However, I remember when my daughter gave me a mug when I was 60, 12 years ago, that said, “You’re not 60; you’re 18 with 42 years of experience.” I am older now, but I still feel like I am 18 and in the best condition of my life!

No one likes to spend money foolishly. However, spending wisely on a pre-inspection can save you thousands of dollars and minimize the stress when selling if your home is 20 years or older. Hiring a certified home inspector or professional engineer will be a prudent and smart activity.

This will ascertain what is right, but more importantly, what is wrong with your home. Knowing this before putting your home on the market will educate you on what may need to be repaired.

It isn’t about upgrading your home but knowing what could squash a sale because of some defect or major issue that could have been dealt with if you had known about it. Some may not

think having a pre-inspection is crucial for a sale to take place, but it will be the most important investment of your money that you could imagine.

With inventory so historically low, you’re not very worried as demand is still very strong, and someone will buy your home, no matter what may be wrong. But that could be a huge error in judgment.

The big question is if avoiding fixing something, what will it really cost you in the sale price? When issues arise, you may have to provide a credit. This may be more than it would have cost you if you had originally been aware of the issue and were capable of fixing it.

The worst-case scenario when not dealing with problems beforehand is that you could lose the buyer altogether. Why go through the motions of selling only to end up having to fix the problems after the buyer does their inspection when this could have been dealt with in the first place?

Being “penny wise and pound foolish” is part of the human condition. We all procrastinate (I have to admit that I periodically procrastinate) for various reasons: laziness, putting a chore off to another day, lack of funds, illness, etc.

However, procrastinating can only

hurt your future wealth when it comes to the most valuable asset that most American homeowners possess.

Being proactive in the first place is to address issues when they are small and not wait until they become severe and a major financial headache. It will be easier when you have the money to deal with small problems than to wait until they blow up in your face. Periodically checking on your utilities, water, electric service and gas to ensure they are functioning properly will benefit you in the long run.

Leaking pipes and water infiltration in the basement, especially when near a body of water, can cause havoc when ignored. Due to the areas on the North Shore where soil in many areas can be more clay in structure, water doesn’t percolate down very easily and may keep many basements smelling a bit musty.

Having a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels as low as possible will avoid a mold condition that can occur. Although mold generally will not kill you, it can be more challenging and aggravate those with existing respiratory conditions.

A dry basement will be more beneficial in the sale of your home, your health and be one less issue that you will need to have to deal with in the future.

Although performing a pre-inspection to address homes that are 20 years or older is prudent, a newly built home may have problems, too.

I have seen some new homes with flooding issues that the builders never addressed or maybe weren’t aware of.

Having a home inspector check heat, hot water, electrical, gas, roof, and windows, even if floors are level and true, proper insulation, quality of appliances, and fixtures may result in finding problems that need to be fixed.

The inspection report as well as your own punch list should be provided to your developer and addressed prior to signing your contract.

Just because it is new construction doesn’t necessarily mean everything was built and installed correctly. Make sure that everything you are purchasing, especially any customizations and extras, have been done and are to your satisfaction.

Depending on the developer, some have had issues, and checking for online reviews in advance of purchasing or building will provide you greater insight as to the experiences of current or former owners of homes they have built.

Even going as far as checking to determine if there were any current or previous lawsuits against them for faulty construction will further provide critical information before making the most expensive purchase of your life.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. 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.Comor via https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com

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Business & Real Estate

Nartowicz joins First Central Savings

First Central Savings Bank has announced that Matt Nartowicz has joined the company as a business development officer with a long history in business banking, commercial and residential lending, and customer service.

Nartowicz arrives at FCSB with a portfolio that spans over two decades in retail banking, traced through meaningful positions at American Community Bank, Citizens Bank, Commerce Bank, and Astoria Federal.

His expertise lies in personal relationships built on trust and understanding.

Just like FCSB prides itself in being an integral part of the community, so does Matt.

His roles have included influential tenures as a guiding light at the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce, steering initiatives at the East North-

port Chamber of Commerce, and providing guidance and career direction to Glen Cove students as part of the Industrial Advisory Board.

Nartowicz’s accolades include community banking hero and businessperson of the year.

“Matt’s professional achievements stand out, but his true distinction lies in his commitment to our local businesses and the deep bonds he fosters with our community members, treating every interaction with care as though they were family and friends,” said FCSB’s Michael Serao, executive vice president and chief administrative officer, who oversees retail banking.

“He’s committed to helping dreams flourish, giving every new initiative a leg up, and ensuring every interaction goes above and beyond what you’d expect.”

COMMUNITY NEWS

From special ops to future docs at Hofstra

The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and Special Operations Forces School of Medicine are proud to announce a collaborative effort to support United States military veterans in their journey to become physicians.

This new partnership advances SOFtoSOM’s mission to provide a pathway for Special Operations Forces to enter the field of medicine as nontraditional applicants, ultimately enriching the medical field with diverse physicians to serve an increasingly diverse population.

The Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/ Northwell is the first medical institution to partner with SOFtoSOM in this endeavor.

“We are pleased to partner with SOFtoSOM, an organization that shares our vision of creating improved pathways for diverse groups to enter the field of medicine and enhance healthcare throughout the United States and the globe,” said Dr. David Battinelli, dean and Betsey Cushing Whitney professor of Medicine at the Zucker School of Medicine, and executive vice president and physician-in-chief for Northwell Health. “U.S. Special Operations Forces service members embody values inherent in physician leaders, such as excellence and service to others. We are committed to helping them pursue their dreams of entering the medical field and ultimately improving the health and well-being of the communities they serve.”

SOFtoSOM is the first non-profit organization dedicated to aiding special operators in their medical education pursuits.

Scholars are identified using selection protocols developed by special operations veterans and operational psychologists who have been involved with NASA selection. SOFtoSOM offers these scholars valuable opportunities to conduct research before entering medical school, as well as mentorship and financial assistance.

Under this initiative, the Zucker School of Medicine has committed to assisting qualifying SOF applicants who have completed the SOFtoSOM program with navigating the medical school application process and providing interview opportunities.

One of the most diverse medical schools in the country, the Zucker School of Medicine’s small class sizes and student-centered learning environment make it an ideal setting for veterans to thrive. Ricky Ditzel Jr., chairman and cofounder of SOFtoSOM, underscored the importance of this new partnership.

“In the Special Operations community, we live by the motto: Humans are more important than hardware,” said Ditzel, a U.S. Army special operations flight paramedic currently pursuing a career as a physician. “We are proud to share this commitment to our people with the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. This collaboration will enrich the healthcare system by introducing highly skilled and resilient physician-leaders from our SOF veterans. The medical school’s unwavering dedication to the communities it serves ensures that together, we will enhance the quality and diversity of healthcare across the nation. We look forward to working together to create a brighter future for healthcare.”

SOF are military units comprised of elite U.S. soldiers across all military branches trained to execute high-stress missions, often in covert and sensitive environments.

Its members possess unparalleled dedication, commitment to excellence, integrity, and adaptability. Despite these qualities, less than 2% of veterans are represented in the medical field, while about 8% of the U.S. population comprises

U.S. Navy SEALs exhibition and the parachuter on the right is an SOFtoSOM scholar and future doctor.

veterans, according to the 2021 U.S. Census. Ditzel noted several barriers to SOF entry into medicine, including challenges in completing the personal statement and accomplishments section of the application due to the “Quiet Professional” stigma within SOF, where sharing stories or seeking affirmation for individual success is frowned upon. Additionally, SOF applicants often lack advisors to help with the application process and manage timelines and deadlines due to their training, familial obligations, and deployment schedules.

As a member of the U.S. military and a graduate of the Zucker School of Medicine, Dr. Christopher Petersen, ’22, knows all too well about the challenges veterans face when applying for and attending medical school. In gratitude for his education and his positive experience as a nontraditional student, he now mentors SOFtoSOM scholars.

“From the start, the Zucker School of Medicine was gracious in allowing me to navigate medical school as a veteran – providing assistance and mentors at each step along the way,” said Petersen, underscoring his appreciation for the efforts of the instructors, physicians, and administrative staff in maximizing students’ future potential within the healthcare system to provide excellent patient-centered care. He praised the school’s many opportunities for ‘non-traditional’ students to learn, lead, and become involved, whether in the clinical setting, research, or the institution’s strategic direction.

“I am ecstatic that SOFtoSOM was created to further educate and strengthen SOF service members in preparation for their transition to medical school and beyond. I am humbled that these two great organizations have directly intertwined to recognize the contributions that SOF members will make within the medical school community and as future physicians. This relationship will continue to impact both organizations and, more importantly, their communities for many years to come.”

To date, 30 scholars have completed the SOFtoSOM program and are currently medical students, accepted medical students, or future applicants.

With partnerships like the one between SOFtoSOM and the Zucker School of Medicine, these veterans can continue serving their communities as physicians and healthcare leaders, ensuring their unique skills and experiences contribute to a healthier, stronger nation.

For more information about the program, visit SOFtoSOM. You can also learn more on the Zucker School of Medicine website.

Matt Nartowicz

PHOTO COURTESY OF NSW FREE FALL TEAM

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Continued from Page 1

Both denounced Martins’ “extremist” rhetoric.

“I believe we deserve to be represented by someone who can bring us together to find real solutions, not someone who fear mongers, sows divisions and panders to the extremes of their party,” Keiserman said. “To regain our voice in Albany, it’s vital that we flip this seat.”

2 Dems vie to challenge Martins CVS to move into NHP lot

Schwartz said Martins fear mongers, whereas his own pursuit as a candidate is in debunking disinformation. He said it is necessary that a Democratic candidate is capable of standing “toe-to-toe” with Martins in the general election.

“I know how to respond to that kind of messaging,” Schwartz said.

Keiserman called Martins’ rhetoric “increasingly hardline and out of touch with the values of our district.”

Martins defeated former state Sen. Anna Kaplan in 2022, but Keiserman said that election was very different.

In this year’s election, she said, voters will be aware of Martins’ actions as a legislator and his rhetoric. Keiserman said Martins has not been active in the district.

She said it is also expected to be a higher voter turnout due to the presidential election, which could bolster the chances of a Democrat win.

Backing the two Democratic candidates are collections of endorsers, from state organizations to local leaders.

Keiserman has garnered a slew of endorsements including Planned Parenthood Empire State Votes Political Action Committee, Every-

and Kim Keiserman..

town for Gun Safety, Rep. Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Nassau County and New York State Democratic Party Chairman Jay Jacobs and various other past and present Democrat politicians.

Schwartz has been endorsed by the New

York Working Families Party and Frederick Brewington, a Long Island civil rights attorney.

The primary election will be held on June 25, with early voting occurring from June 15 through June 23. The general election featuring the primary winners will be held on Nov. 5.

DeSena deputy highest paid in town

Continued from Page 1

Attorney John Chiara with a salary of $175,662 and former Planning Commissioner Michael Levine, who earned $170,998.

Scalero’s 2024 salary exceeds those of both the two highest-paid employees in 2023.

The Town of Oyster Bay also has a deputy supervisor, Gregory W. Carman Jr., who was appointed by Supervisor Joseph Saladino. In Oyster Bay, the deputy supervisor serves under the supervisor and takes over the supervisor role, until another individual is appointed, if the office becomes vacant.

Carman was the highest-paid employee in the Town of Oyster Bay in 2023 with a salary of $188,808, according to See Through NY.

The Town of Hempstead’s deputy supervisor position is fulfilled by oneof the elected councilmembers – different than that of North Hempstead and Oyster Bay. This is Hempstead First District Councilmember Dorothy L. Goosby.

Goosby was given a salary of $94,343 in 2023.

Scalero was investigated in 2022 after former Town Attorney Chiara filed an Equal Employment Opportunity complaint against him on behalf of the town’s former director of purchasing, Moira LaBarbera.

Scalero was cleared in an internal investigation into harassment and retaliation complaints released in October.

“I can no longer work in this hostile and

North Hempstead Town Hall in Manhasset.

retaliatory environment perpetuated by both you and the Town,” LaBarbera wrote to DeSena in July when she resigned, according to Newsday.

North Hempstead Town Attorney Nicolello earns an annual salary of $185,000. Behind him is the Commissioner of Public Works Kristin Seleski, who receives $167,000 and the Superintendent of Highways Douglas Schlaefer with $165,215.

Nicolello, who was hired to replace

PHOTO BY KARINA KOVAC

Chiara, has a first-year salary greater than the one Chiara ended with in North Hempstead.

DeSena, an elected official, is the 23rdhighest-paid employee in the town with a salary of $133,000.

DeSena received the same salary in 2023, which is set by the Town. This is the same salary that the prior Supervisor Judi Bosworth received at the end of her service.

Continued from Page 2

plication approved by the town planning board by the end of the year, start construction by the end of spring next year and open sometime in 2026, the builders said.

The project traffic engineer said they were “looking to beautify” the area with additional green landscaping and will only create parking where it is necessary to prevent a “sea of parking lot.” The builders are proposing 58 parking spaces in the plan, they said.

The traffic engineer said CVS will stay on top of the landscaping at this property in response to resident concerns that other nearby CVS locations have been left to deteriorate over time.

“You’re making an investment in the community when you do something like this so you obviously want to keep up with it,” the traffic engineer said.

The builders said the proposed additional landscaping will mitigate water run off.

CVS has yet to conduct a traffic study near the lot location, the developers said.

Residents shared concerns about the safety of making turns in and out of the parking lot, and were encouraged to direct those questions to the Town of North Hempstead Board of Zoning Appeals.

Residents also asked about the nearby bowling alley, which currently uses part of the area designated for the new CVS as additional parking.

Builders said the bowling alley has agreed to use parking space behind its property and will have “sufficient” parking.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CANDIDATES

State Senate District 7 Democratic candidates Brad Schwartz, left,

Legislators respond to resident concerns

Continued from Page 2

Republican Ra disagreed with the move while Democrat Sillitti supported it, a common party-line split on even-year elections.

The Democrat-backed law would make local races line up with gubernatorial and presidential elections. Turnout is highest during these elections and Democrats have a slight turnout advantage, according to The New York Times.

The law is facing a number of legal challenges, including a lawsuit fi led by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Resident concerns included a number of issues, like voter identification during elections, cutting school taxes for senior citizens, local squatter situations and airplane noise.

Ra said voters should have to show a form of identification or their voter card while voting in an election.

One resident asked if school taxes could be cut by 50% for senior citizens. Ra said that there are several proposed bills calling for cuts to seniors’ taxes that have not yet been voted on. He said the best way to cut seniors’ taxes

would be to have the state back the difference created by lost senior contributions; otherwise, everyone else’s taxes would rise in the community.

Martins responded to resident concerns about squatters in New Hyde Park.

A house at 109 Evans St. has reportedly been occupied by squatters for months with no end in sight, according to neighbors and Islip-based Homeowners Resource Group. The Evans Street property is less than a 10-minute drive from 39 Brussel Drive, where a pair of Porsche-driving squatters

occupied a home for nearly a year before being evicted in early April.

Martins said there is an “inherent conflict between tenants’ rights and then squatters’ rights.”

While Martins said he expects the state Legislature will be able to relieve the squatter situation, he could not give specifics on when and if residents could expect a change in squatters’ rights rules.

The state senator responded to complaints on air traffic noise. He said his office has called the Department of Health every week for months asking for updates on an airplane study to no avail.

Schreiber student educates about Tourette Syndrome

Lucas Lardoux, an 11th grade student at Schreiber High School, is stepping up to raise awareness and foster understanding of Tourette syndrome within his community and across the state.

Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome himself, Lucas has undertaken specialized training through the Tourette Association of America to become a Youth Ambassador, with a mission to educate and inspire.

Lucas’ initiative stems from his personal journey with Tourette Syndrome and a deepseated desire to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding the condition.

His goal in Port Washington for the 2023-24 school year was to engage with every fifth-grade student in the Port Washington School District by the end of the academic year, sharing insights and facilitating exercises to try and make others understand what it might feel like to have Tourette Syndrome.

“When people ask me why I wanted to become a Youth Ambassador, the short answer is I wanted to pave an easier path for kids struggling with the symptoms of this diagnosis. The amazing offshoot has been that the presentations also ended up teaching tolerance and understanding for all kids struggling with something. I am teaching them that nobody is defined by their challenges” said Lucas. “I have had so much fun doing these presentations and interacting with the students and I am looking forward to continuing in the next academic year in Port Washington.”

Supported by the Tourette Association of America, his training has allowed him to deliver educational and general community presentations effectively. The sessions span all levels of education and can also be helpful to community programs, camps, and in many professional work settings.

These sessions aim to promote understand-

ing, reduce stigma, and encourage peer empathy. In addition to the presentations, Lucas has lobbied for educational and health-related legislation on Capitol Hill with state and local representatives. Speaking from experience, he was able to share a personal perspective on why change is needed.

“We are immensely proud of Lucas’ dedication to raising awareness about Tourette Syndrome,” said Dr. Michael Hynes, superintendent of the Port Washington School District. “His passion and commitment exemplify the impact that individuals can have within their communities, and we are honored to support him in this important endeavor.”

Lucas’ endeavor not only reflects his personal resilience but also underscores the power of student-led initiatives in effecting positive change. By fostering dialogue and understanding, he is paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate community.

North Shore TV receives community media award

North Shore TV once again received a 2024 Hometown Media Award from the Alliance for Community Media Foundation. The awards program was established to honor and promote community media, community radio, and local cable programs that are distributed on public, educational and governmental access cable television channels.

Proceeds go to the ACM Foundation, which is exclusively used to facilitate, preserve, and promote education in community media.

The Alliance for Community Media Overall Excellence Award is a prestigious accolade recognizing exceptional community media organizations’ outstanding public, educational, and government access programming achievements.

These awards celebrate the creative efforts, technical skill, and community impact of media centers that produce content reflecting their communities’ diverse voices and interests.

“We are deeply honored to receive the Alliance for Community Media’s Overall Excellence Award. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our incredible team, volunteers, and community supporters.”, said North Shore TV’s Executive Director, Erica Bradley.

“This award is not just a reflection of our efforts but a celebration of the vibrant, diverse voices that make up our community. Community media fosters free speech, promotes civic engagement, and provides educational resources.

Recognizing our contributions underscores the importance of our mission and the impact we strive to make every day. Special thanks to our volunteers and partners, whose collaboration and support have been invaluable. Together, North Shore TV will continue to create, innovate, and make a difference in our community.”

Each year, nearly one thousand entries are submitted. These entries, or programs, are submitted and evaluated on several factors, resulting in over 100 award winners. A panel of over 150 judges from the industry evaluates the entries.

Awards are presented to the most creative programs that address community needs, develop diverse community involvement, challenge conventional commercial television formats, and move viewers to experience television in a different way.

“The Hometown Media Awards celebrate both the excellence of work and the diversity of media appearing on community channels being produced nationwide. The ACM Foundation is proud of their achievement and of how they represent their communities in their work,” said Mike Wassenaar, president & CEO, Alliance for Community Media.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PORT WASHINGTON UFSD

Lucas Lardoux in Washington D.C. lobbying for legislation to support TAA initiatives.

NSTV freelance videographer Andre Vanterpool, at the Westbury Arts Center

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Sands celebrates PRIDE Month on LI SUNY students win media awards

On June 9, the Sands New York team joined the LGBT Network to celebrate PRIDE on Long Island. The event, held annually in Huntington, drew in more people than ever before making it the largest Long Island Parade EVER, according to organizers.

Thousands turned out to celebrate the LGBT community and to enjoy a variety of vendor booths, live music, food trucks, games and entertainment, and fun for everyone.

“Sands has a proud history of supporting, employing and welcoming those within the LGBT community, and we are extremely proud to partner with the LGBT Network to celebrate June as PRIDE month,” said Tracey Edwards, senior vice president and corporate social responsibility officer for Sands New York. “If built, the proposed Sands New York project will carry on our legacy of equity and opportunity — and it will be a space where every Long Islander can feel safe and free to be their full authentic selves.”

Sands was a platinum sponsor of the event and managed several booths within the festival area. They spoke to festival-goers and handed out water bottles, Frisbees, and lip balm.

SUNY Old Westbury students and recent American Studies/Media and Communications Department graduates recently earned 2024 Folio Awards for their work in varied forms of media.

The awards, run by the Fair Media Council, recognize the best in news and social media coverage and were presented during an awards luncheon in June 2024.

In the Political News — Student category, OWTV won for “Robin Rue Simmons — How the Next Generation Can Lead on the Road to Reparations.”

The report centered around a spring 2023 visit to campus by Robin Rue Simmons, founder and executive director of First Repair and a Pritzker Fellow at the Institute of Politics of The University of Chicago, who discussed the nationwide discussion regarding more and greater compensation for Black Americans for the lasting legacy of slavery, racism and discrimination in the nation continues to grow.

Renee DeLorenzo served as reporter and editor for the project, with filming and support conducted by Julianne Sucre, Casim Jewsbury, Christopher Zepeda, and Nasir Fanfan.

In the War & Protest — Student category, OWTV

Lustgarten Foundation

The Lustgarten Foundation, the largest private funder of pancreatic cancer research in the world, has appointed Dr. Richard Barakatn, a world-renowned surgeon and clinical investigator who leads cancer services and research at Northwell Health Cancer Institute.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Barakat to the Lustgarten Foundation Board of Directors,” said Linda Tantawi, CEO of the Lustgarten Foundation. “We stand on the precipice of exciting breakthroughs and lifesaving progress in pancreatic cancer research. With the addition of Dr. Barakat, we are confident that the Lustgarten Foundation will continue to lead the way toward transforming pancreatic cancer into a curable disease.”

Barakat is physician-in-chief and director of cancer at Northwell Health Cancer Institute. He was previously deputy physician in chief from 2014-2018 and chief of gynecology service from 2001-2013 at Memorial Sloan Kettering.

He was the lead investigator on several influential research projects at MSK and co-authored

more than 340 peer-reviewed articles and numerous textbook chapters.

Barakat served as a member and examiner for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and was vice chair of the Cancer Prevention Committee of the Gynecologic Oncology Group.

He received his BA from Queens College, City University of New York, his MD from SUNY Downstate, and an MBA from the Columbia University School of Business.

“I am honored and excited about this appointment. Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to diagnose and treat, and I am eager to join this incredible group of individuals dedicated to raising awareness, advancing care, and giving hope to so many,” said Barakat. “This is a personal privilege for me to help bring Northwell, the Lustgarten Foundation, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and all oncologists closer to our mutual goal: survivorship. Our combined efforts are essential not only to cure pancreatic cancer but to advance the fight

Students and faculty of SUNY Old Westbury celebrate their 2024 FOLIO

took home a second honor for “OW Speaks: Israel-Palestine Conflict.”

Having first aired on November 19, 2023, the program featured interviews with Old Westbury faculty members discussing the heightened conflict in Middle East that arose in October 2024. The honor was given to Tim Coventry, who served as director and host of the program.

Also earning honors were the production crew comprised of Derell Smith, Marcus Ennette, Bethany

against all cancers.”

Wilson, Sanique Sutherland, and Julianne Sucre.

In addition to the student honorees, a member of the Media & Communications faculty was selected to serve as a judge for the Folio Awards. Dr. Özgür Akgün, an American Studies/ Media and Communications department assistant professor, served as a FOLIO judge for the third consecutive year in the 2024 awards program.

Developed in the 1980s as a way to encourage and reward Long Island news,

The Lustgarten Foundation, Northwell Health, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have partnered for over a decade, creating a cornerstone of care dedicated to improving the understanding, detection, and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer represents only 3% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States each year, yet it is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths and is poised to become the second by 2030.

And, while the five-year survival rate for all stages combined has reached an unprecedented high of 13% — thanks to Lustgarten’s role as a driving force in every major advancement in pancreatic cancer research – this significantly lags behind all other major cancers.

The Lustgarten Foundation continues to pursue what matters most: changing, extending, and saving patients’ lives through our relentless focus on funding the boldest, most innovative studies, guided by our esteemed Board of Directors.

the Folio Awards have grown over the years.

Expanding news categories to include New York regional and National news and social media categories for campaigns that seek to inform, educate or inspire are qualified for entry. Today, a Folio Award is regarded as the gold standard for news that matters

The Fair Media Council is a nonprofit organization that is recognized as one of the oldest, most successful media watchdogs in the country today.

Dr. Richard Barakat is physician-in-chief and director of Cancer at Northwell Health Cancer Institute

Sands New York Celebrates PRIDE Month on Long Island

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNY OLD WESTBURY

Awards. From left to right Renee Delorenzo, Gabrielle Gambuzza, Özgür Akgün, professor Lisa Payton, Tim Coventry, Derell Smith, Julianne Sucre, Christopher Zepeda, and professor Joseph Manfredi.

Garland vote partisan among Nassaus reps

Continued from Page 6

The Island Park representative is running for re-election with the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. He has been outspoken on a number of recent issues, including his disapproval of the MTA congestion pricing plan and pro-Palestinian college protests at Columbia University.

Republican Mike LiPetri, who is running to represent District 3, called the House vote a “common sense” move.

“This is about oversight and accountability. Holding AG Garland in contempt of Congress is a direct result of his own refusal to comply with these legal subpoenas and release the audio recordings,” LiPetri said in a statement. “Actions have consequences – he ignored the subpoenas, he was held in contempt.”

The former state Assemblyman is vying for the current seat of Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzi, who flipped the seat to blue in a special election in February and replaced disgraced former Rep. George Santos.

Efforts to reach Suozzi, who voted against Garland’s impeachment, were unavailing.

Democrats attacked the House vote and criticized Republicans for their weaponization of the justice system.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee slammed D’Esposito’s vote, calling it part of a “sham, conspiracy-ridden investigation.”

“Anthony D’Esposito has totally given up on delivering for everyday Nassau County families,” DCCC Spokesperson Ellie Dougherty said in a statement. “Instead of finding bipartisan solutions to the problems facing our nation,

D’Esposito is too busy targeting our law enforcement agencies to prop up Donald Trump. Shame on him.”

After the October 2023 interview with the president, Hur declined to prosecute Biden and said the president would likely present himself to a jury “as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.”

Though the audio was not turned over, a transcript of the interview was made public.

The 216-207 contempt of Congress vote was a politically divided one, with just one Republican representative – David Joyce of Ohio – voting no. All participating Democrats voted no. Seven Democrats and one Republican did not vote.

“It is deeply disappointing that this House of Representatives has turned a serious congressional authority into a partisan weapon,” Garland said in a statement Wednesday evening. “Today’s vote disregards the constitutional separation of powers, the Justice Department’s need to protect its investigations, and the substantial amount of information we have provided to the committees.”

Republican legislators subpoenaed the interview audio as part of the GOP-led impeachment inquiry into Biden. Republicans condemned Hur for not pursuing prosecution while Democrats criticized the special counsel for his comments about the president’s age and memory.

Biden exerted executive privilege in May to block the release of the interview recording.

The Justice Department did not turn over all of the subpoenaed material, leaving out the audio in question out of concern it could jeopardize future investigations.

This portal provides a user-friendly, self-serve turnkey platform for publishing your notices.

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Trump endorses LiPetri in race against Suozzi

Continued from Page 8

skyrocketing costs of living, and a lack of “common-sense” decision-making, according to his website.

The Democrats’ House Majority Pac slammed Trump’s endorsement of LiPetri and said it will lead to a win for Suozzi.

“Convicted criminal Donald Trump just gave Mike LiPetri’s campaign the kiss of death by praising his commitment to far-right MAGA extremism that will undermine our democracy,”House Majority Pac Press Secretary Alisha Heng said.“LiPetri has a shady record of being involved with criminals such as Trump and George Santos, and New Yorkers will swiftly reject him in November when they re-elect Rep. Tom Suozzi.”

The Pac’s mention of a “shady” deal with Santos references a New York Times story from last July, in which LiPetri allegedly was

involved in a business deal with Santos resembling the “Nigerian prince” email scheme.

The Times said Santos, along with three other men, approached a loyal campaign donor and told him that a wealthy Polish citizen wanted to buy cryptocurrency but his funds were frozen in a bank account for unknown reasons.

Santos and the three men asked the donor to create a limited liability company to gain access to the funds, according to the campaign donor who remained anonymous in the story.

The newspaper said Santos partnered with LiPetri and Bryant Park Associates, which is run by Republican donor Dominick Sartorio, on the crypto deal.

LiPetri said he was not involved “in detail” in the deal.

“Mr. Santos only made the introductions. End of story,” Joseph Murray, LiPetri’s lawyer, told the New York Times.

VOELKER’S GIANT LEAP

Manhasset swimmer excels at high jump at state meet

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

Imagine a high school swimmer who’d never done the breaststroke before trying it for the first time, practicing for a month, then finishing top five in the state.

Or how about a gymnast who’d never done the uneven bars working on them for a few weeks and nailing a state medal?

It sounds ridiculous, right? Of course that could never happen. Except in the sport of track and field, well, things like thatcan happen, in unusual cases.

Take Kate Voelker, who a little more than a month ago was enjoying a routine season as a sophomore runner for Manhasset, specializing in the 400 hurdles.

Then one day her teammate, Megan Tian, suggested Voelker try the high jump, saying that Voelker is athletic and might be good at it.

“I said ‘OK, but I’m going to look really unathletic doing it because I’d never done it before,” Voelker recalled. “And so she set the bar at 5’3,” and I cleared it pretty easily.

“It’s

not as hard physically as running, but mentally you have to be exactly on it, concentrating, because it’s over so fast.Now that I know I can do this, I want to train and get a lot better and get back here (next year.)”

— Kate Voelker

SOPHOMORE RUNNER

“And I thought, ‘hmmm, maybe I actually could be good at this.'”

A few short weeks later, Voelker had qualified for the state championships in Syracuse, and on June 8 she leaped over a bar set at 5’7,” tied for second in the event (Voelker officially placed fourth due to tiebreakers).

She was a mere one inch away from being a state champion. In an event she’d never done before May.

“It’s really an incredible, crazy story, and a testament to how good an athlete Kate is,” said Manhasset track and field coach Steve Steiner. “She showed an aptitude for it, and very quickly learned how to do it well.”

Voelker, who in an interview a few days after the meet still seemed kind of stunned at what she had done, said the mental and physical approach to high jump is unlike anything she’s done before.

“It’s not as hard physically as running, but mentally you have to be exactly on it, concentrating, because it’s over so fast,” Voelker said. “Now that I know I can do this, I want to train and get a lot better and get back here (next year.)”

Voelker’s performance was one of several medal-winning efforts from locals at the state meet, held on June 7-8.

Despite weather delays pushing some field events back a day, Roslyn’s Zachary Davidson won his second state medal of the year. After placing third in the state indoors in March, Davidson, a junior, repeated that strong outing by again finishing third.

This time Davidson soared 15 feet over the bar, finishing one foot behind the winner.

“I was pretty happy with how I did; definitely had set 15 (feet) as a goal so really glad I did it,” Davidson said. “Going to work hard this summer and my new goal is 17 feet.

“I see no reason to set limits.”

For the Manhasset boys 4×800 relay team, the outdoor meet was an almost-exact replica of the indoor meet in March.

Once again the Manhasset quarter of John Hogan, Cole Thalheimer, Ryan Boldi and Blake Sealy were right there to win the crown, battling Saratoga Springs.

In the winter, Saratoga edge Manhasset out by three seconds. This outdoor race was even closer, as Manhasset’s time of 7:53.78 was just edged out by Saratoga, who ran a 7:52.88.

Less than one second difference in an eightminute race.

“We ran a second faster than our previous best, and one of our guys (Cole Thalheimer) was a little hurt, so we were really happy with out

time,” Boldi said. “But yeah, losing by a second we definitely are going to beat them next time.”

With all four Manhasset competitors returning next year, they’re a good bet to do just that.

Finally, it was another outstanding state meet for Great Neck South’s Isabella Spagnoli. The junior who excels in cross country as well had her highest state finish yet in a career filled with them, as she placed fifth in the 2000-meter steeplechase, in 7:05.00

“I was really scared before the race because I’d done really badly my last two state meets, and I really wanted to medal,” Spagnoli said. “But I went out really fast, hurdled over the steeple without touching it, and was able to finish really strong.”

Port Washington’s Bella Lucas also came home with a medal from states, as her leap of 38 feet, 1.50 inches in the triple jump was good for eighth place.

PHOTO BY LUCAS SHARRON/MILESPLIT

Kate Voelker of Manhasset captured fourth place at the state track and field championships in Syracuse on June 4.

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