PORT WASHINGTON 2023_12_15 by The Island 360

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Friday, December 15, 2023

Vol. 9, No. 50

PortWashingtonTimes Washington GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS

DeRIGGI-WHITTON PICKED SANTOS TALKING PLEA DEAL WITH PROSECUTORS COUNTY DEM LEADER

PAGES 23-38

PAGE 4

Democrats pick Suozzi for Congress bid

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H O L I D AY F U N

Special election race to replace George Santos after House expulsion BY B R A N D ON D U FF Y Former U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi (DGlen Cove), a Democrat who represented New York’s 3rd Congressional District for six years, has been selected by the party to run in a special election next February for his old post. The special election will be held to replace George Santos, who was expelled from Congress on Dec. 1, finish his current term and take place on Tuesday, Feb. 13. The announcement was made Thursday afternoon by state and Nassau County Democratic Chair Jay Jacobs and Rep. Gregory Meeks, the Queens County Democratic chair. “On behalf of the Nassau County and Queens County Democratic Committees, we are very pleased to announce the official selection this afternoon of Thomas R. Suozzi of Glen Cove to be our nominee for the Special Election in the Third Congressional District of New York,” the two said in a statement. “Tom Suozzi has a proven record of fighting for his constituents, fighting to safeguard our suburban way of life here on Long Island and Queens and always advocating for sensible solutions to the real challenges affecting everyday average Americans.” Jacobs and Meeks went on to say

they look forward to working with Suozzi’s campaign to restore “integrity, competence and a focus on the real needs” of the district and its constituents. Suozzi launched his campaign Saturday afternoon in Levittown at the home of Tom Cavanagh, a retired NYPD deputy police inspector, and was joined by hundreds of supporters. “I have always worked with anyone of goodwill, regardless of party affiliation, if it meant working to fix things and deliver results to the people I represented,” said Suozzi. Due to the nature of a special election, candidates are not voted on in a primary by constituents in the district. Other candidates who were running for the seat alongside Suozzi were former state Sen. Anna Kaplan, Austin Cheng, Scott Livingston and Darius Radzius. Suozzi’s appointment was made in conjunction with top party officials, including Gov. Kathy Hochul and House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, among others. Suozzi represented the 3rd District from 2017 to 2013 and chose not to run for re-election last year amid a failed gubernatorial run, one that was criticized by party leaders at the time. Continued on Page 50

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PORT WASHINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

Daly Elementary pre-k students craft dreidels to celebrate the holiday season.

McCarthy ousts Staley in race for police commish BY C A M E RY N O A K ES In a competitive race featuring two former local police oﬃcers, retired Nassau County Police Chief Sean McCarthy ousted Port Washington Police Commissioner Brian Staley by more than 200 votes. Port Washington residents ﬂocked to the polls Tuesday night to vote for commissioners in four special district elections: the Port Washington Police District, Port Washington Water District, Port Washington

Water Pollution Control District and Port Washington Garbage District. As reported at the polls Tuesday night, McCarthy received 632 votes, or 59.3% of the total votes, with Staley falling behind with 428 votes or 40.2% of the total. The election also received ﬁve write-ins. McCarthy, a nearly 25-year Port Washington resident, is a former chief of the Nassau County Police Department who retired in July 2018 after working for the department for more than 33 years and rising

through the ranks. He previously told Blank Slate that his time in the police force has given him a diversity of experiences, from his time as a patrol oﬃcer to the business and administrative skills developed while in his higher-ranking posts. After learning of his election win, McCarthy told Blank Slate that he was glad to be done with campaigning for his ﬁrst election and is looking forward to stepping into the position. Continued on Page 51

The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

Sewer gets $59M bond for projects To fund major improvements in district BY C A M E RY N O A K ES

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The Port Washington North Village Office.

Port North OKs 2024 Port fire contract $4.8M budget about a 6% increase from prior year BY C A M E RY N O A K ES The Village of Port Washington North approved its 2024 services contract with the Port Washington Fire Department Tuesday night, which is increasing by about 6% and features a 2.95% increase of the tax levy. The Port Washington Fire Department’s total budget in 2024 is proposed to be $4,843,291, about a 6% increase from the prior budget. The department’s 2023 budget was set at $4,558,691. Christopher Bollerman, chairman of the fire department’s board of directors, said the tax levy is set at $4,693,291, for a total of a 2.95% tax levy increase from 2023. The village’s contribution to the fire department’s budget, with pen-

sion, is set at $340,733. This is increasing by $9,772 from 2023. Excluding the village’s pension payment, they would be expending $307,337 for the department’s contract for services in 2024. Bollerman said the Village of Port Washington North contributes 7.62% to the department’s total budget. The chairman said the department will be including cost recovery funds in 2024 to help fund the department, which is the department’s new initiative started this year that has begun charging individuals to be transported via ambulance and the emergency medical services required for the patient during transit. Bollerman said cost recovery funds will contribute about $150,000 to the department’s budget.

The Port Washington Water Pollution Control District, also known as the sewer district, is set to begin a major district improvement project to upgrade its aging infrastructure, which the Town of North Hempstead approved to fund with a $59 million bond. District Business Manager Giovanna DiFiore said the $59 million bond will fund multiple projects within the district, including various improvements and upgrades to the district’s wastewater treatment plant and the collections system, which encompasses lining about 8,300 linear feet of sewer mains and upgrades of existing pump stations. “It’s really a lot,” DiFiore said. “It’s basically covering all of our pump stations, including a lining project,” The Town of North Hempstead unanimously approved the capital improvements facility bond Tuesday night, which is not to exceed $59 million.

In 2022, Bollerman said the department responded to 349 ambulance calls in Port Washington North, constituting about 13% of the department’s total call volume, and 126 fire calls in the village, about 8% of its call volume. In 2023, year to date, Bollerman said the department has responded to 384 calls in Port Washington North, with 244 delegated to emergency medical responses and 140 for fire emergencies. The board also approved the purchase of three Bigbelly garbage bins, which are enclosed trash cans that utilize a foot pedal and handle to open the trash can opening, to be added along the Bay Walk. Continued on Page 50

Correction: The story in last week’s Blank Slate Media newspapers titled “Flower Hill talks security boosts after crime spike” misstated that the village received three appraisals on the sale of Birch Lane when it received three quotes for appraisals. The story also misstated that the homeowners were interested in selling the property when they are interested in purchasing the portion of the road to be sold.

Prior to receiving approval for the bond, the district conducted engineering studies to determine what improvements needed to be made within the district. The bond will also go toward funding any necessary furnishing and equipment needed for the upgrades as well as engineering costs, DiFiore said. She added that the project does not encompass luxury items or anything that can be delayed for implementation at a later date. “We have issues with every pump station,” DiFiore said. “We just can’t wait any longer, unfortunately.” DiFiore said the improvement project is necessary due to the aging infrastructure of the water pollution control district, with some pump stations in use for about 80 years. “And we’ve come to a point now that just main repairs and maintenance are not cutting it,” DiFiore said. “And we’ve got to the point where we do have to do the work.” Continued on Page 51

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Port Washington Water Pollution and Control District is set to begin its major improvement project, funded by a $59 million bond with the Town of North Hempstead.

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The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

Chef Ramsay cooks up a new Diwan Port Indian restaurant the latest project for famed cook on hit TV show ‘Kitchen Nightmares” BY C A M E RY N O A K ES A Port Washington Indian restaurant has received a new look and a new life after a visit from famed chef Gordon Ramsay, who has lent his kitchen expertise to reinvigorate the local restaurant that was featured on an episode of the hit television show “Kitchen Nightmares.” The restaurant that Ramsay called a pioneer of Indian cuisine, Diwan, located at 37 Shore Road, has been operated in Port Washington for about 35 years by husband-and-wife team Bobby and Margaret Chhikara. Bobby Chhikara said in the episode that the restaurant had had a prominent place in the community, with customers flocking to fill the seats within two weeks of the restaurant’s opening in the 1980s. “In our heyday, Diwan was very vibrant,” Margaret Chhikara said. “It was the place to be seen at and the line would go out into the parking lot.” But with the growth of Indian cuisine offered locally, Bobby Chhikara said it had led to a sharp drop in their customer base. Ramsay said the local competition caused a “hemorrhaging” of money, with the owners saying the drain had

to rescue yet another restaurant in crisis. When he first visited Diwan, Ramsay said his initial dining experience featured slow service, botched orders and poor reviews of the food. Ramsay called the restaurant’s food “dated,” “uninspiring” and “disappointing,” with many dishes tasting bland, oily and not freshly made. He also criticized the restaurant’s menu for its high prices and the food not meeting equivalent standards. “Maybe four decades ago Bobby’s intention was fine-dining Indian, but it’s like food that’s been stuck in a time warp,” Ramsay said. “What a shame.” While Bobby Chhikara blamed a change in customers for the decline in their business, Ramsay said it had to do with the restaurant not meeting the diners’ standards due to a deterioration in quality food and service. Ramsay also criticized Bobbu Chhikara for how active he was in the kitchen, not allowing other staff memPHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES bers to assist in the food production. Ramsay called the kitchen “chaotic.” Port Washington’s Diwan was featured on Gordon Ramsay’s “Kitchen Nightmares” where the famed chef As part of the show, Ramsay’s turnaround plan for Diwan highworked his magic to revitalize the business. lighted renovations. Changes to the forced them to utilize their retirement sode that he estimated he had in- demic. restaurant included equipment upsavings to keep the restaurant afloat. vested about $100,000 a year in the Fast forward to Gordon Ramsey’s dates, a new menu and a replaceBobby Chhikara said in the epi- restaurant since the COVID-19 pan- arrival on the scene as he attempted Continued on Page 51

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The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

DeRiggi-Whitton picked to lead Belmont Stakes makes move county’s Democratic caucus BY C A M E RY N O A K ES Nassau County District 11 Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D-Glen Cove), who represents Long Island’s North Shore, is stepping into a new role as the leader of the Nassau County Legislative Democratic Caucus. “Being selected by my colleagues to lead our caucus at such a dynamic time in the history of the Legislature is a tremendous honor, and I am deeply humbled by the trust they have placed in me,” DeRiggiWhitton said. DeRiggi-Whitton, a 12-year county legislator, was elected to her seventh term serving District 11 in November, garnering 64% of the district’s votes. She represents the residents of Port Washington, Roslyn, Roslyn Harbor, Sea Cliff, Glenwood Landing, and Glen Cove. The legislator previously told Blank Slate that she considers herself a moderate Democrat who doesn’t “vote down the line.” Stepping into this new position, DeRiggi-Whitton said the Democratic caucus will be pushing forward in conducting oversight of Nassau Executive Bruce Blakeman’s administration and enacting checks and balances, establishing initiatives to boost affordability in the county, environ-

DeRiggi-Whitton is a staunch advocate for addressing the opioid epidemic that has been exacerbated by the presence of fentanyl in the community. She has hosted Narcan training sessions over the years to teach residents how to administer the overdose-reversing drug and inform them of the issues at hand, and co-sponsored legislation that would require fentanyl test strips to be included in Narcan kits – which is still awaiting approval in the Legislature. DeRiggi-Whitton has pushed for the disbursement of the county’s opioid settlement money to help address the county’s current crisis, proposing solutions like funding treatment centers and covering patient drug treatments. In tandem with the county’s opioid settlement money, DeRiggi-Whitton has also PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF THE advocated the county distribute its federal NASSAU COUNTY LEGISLATURE MINORITY COVID-19 relief funds, or ARPA money, to improve failing infrastructures or even put Nassau County District 11 Legislamoney into people’s hands. Her other legislative initiatives have tor Delia DeRiggi-Whitton has been focused on environmental issues and acselected as the next leader of the tions, including banning the use of frackcounty’s democratic caucus. ing water to make pellets that melt snow. DeRiggi-Whitton is succeeding the curmental protection measures, preservation of public safety, infrastructure investments rent minority caucus leader Kevan Abrahaand greater responses to address the opi- ms. He served as the caucus’ leader since Continued on Page 51 oid epidemic.

to Saratoga

BY B R A N D ON DUFFY The 156th running of the Belmont Stakes in 2024 will take place at Saratoga Race Course while Belmont Park undergoes major renovations. Gov. Kathy Hochul made the announcement Wednesday that the third leg of the Triple Crown will be held upstate alongside a four-day festival. “It’s a win for horse racing and for the Capital Region to have the excitement and the ability to host the four-day festival in June at America’s most historic track,” Hochul said in a statement. The race will be held on Saturday, June 8, while the festival will take place from June 6 to June 9. Included in next year’s changes are a $500,000 increase in the purse for the winning horse

to $2 million. Belmont Park will be redeveloped and reconstructed from scratch as part of a multi-year project secured through a $455 million loan included in this year’s state budget. No taxpayer money will be used in the loan, which will be paid back with racing revenue over 20 years, according to the NYRA. The horse racing industry in New York generates $3 billion in annual economic activity while sustaining 19,000 jobs, according to the NYRA. The project is expected to begin next year and be completed by the 2026 race. A new state-of-the-art facility at Belmont, which was last renovated in 1968, will also guarantee the return of the Breeders’ Cup, thoroughbred racing’s yearend world championships, to Long Island for Continued on Page 50

The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

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The state’s top court Tuesday ordered New York’s congressional map to be redrawn for the 2024 elections, giving Democrats a boost in a move that could shift the balance in Congress. New York’s Court of Appeals in a 4-3 decision said districts that were made last year by a court-appointed “special master” were only eligible for 2022 and need to be redrawn. The ruling gives Democrats a second chance at drawing fairer maps while Republicans, who ﬂipped four seats in the state on the way to securing a majority in the House of Representatives, sought to keep the map as it currently stands. “We are pleased with the Court of Appeals’ decision and look forward to getting back to work with our colleagues as soon as possible to ensure that New York’s voters receive the beneﬁt of the historic redistricting reforms they voted for in 2014,” Ken Jenkins, chairman of the Independent Redistricting Commission, said in a statement. The state’s bipartisan redistricting commission has until Wednesday, Feb. 28, to submit new maps, which will then go before the Democrat-controlled state Legislature for approval. “The existing judicially drawn congressional districts are limited to the 2022 election,” Judge Rowan Wilson wrote for the majority.

Under the 2014 state constitutional amendment, if the commission does not submit maps by the February deadline, the Legislature will draw the maps themselves, similar to what they did in 2022 before they were challenged. The Democrats’ proposal, which would have given them a strong majority of registered voters in 22 of the state’s 26 congressional districts, was said to be gerrymandered and rejected by the State Supreme Court. Democrats will again have much influence over creating districts with more favorable boundaries after losing seats, specifically on Long Island and in the Hudson Valley, two years ago. In 2021, Republican candidates George Santos and Anthony D’Esposito each flipped the 3rd and 4th Congressional Districts, respectively. With Santos now out of the House, D’Esposito represents one of 17 House Republicans that President Joe Biden won in 2020. In New York, Democrats lost six congressional races last year that Biden carried in 2020. “Albany Democrats will do everything in their power to subvert the will of New Yorkers who rejected their failing progressive agenda, and this push to gerrymander fairly drawn congressional lines is just the most recent iteration of the Democrats’ disregard for Long Island voters,” D’Esposito said in a statement Tuesday following the decision.

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Santos in plea negotiations with prosecutors Former rep. faces 23 counts that includes wire fraud, money laundering and theft of public funds BY B R A N D ON D U FF Y

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Former U.S. Rep. George Santos.

Former U.S. Rep. George Santos is currently negotiating a plea deal with federal prosecutors as he faces a court date in September after being charged with 23 counts of wire fraud, money laundering and theft of public funds. “The parties are presently engaged in plea negotiations with the goal of resolving this matter without the need for a trial,” a letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Brooklyn said in a filing Monday to Judge Joanna Seybert of the Eastern District of New York in Central Islip.Santos’ lawyers told Seybert in a court conference Tuesday the talks were “productive,” according to multiple reports. On Dec. 1 Santos, 35, became just the sixth member of the House to be expelled after a 311-114 vote, with 105 Republicans voting in favor of his removal. He took office in January 2021, representing the 3rd Congressional District covering parts of Nassau and Queens.

Santos, in an interview Sunday with CBS New York, said nothing was off the table in terms of a plea deal. “I’m going to negotiate the best I can,” Santos said. Before Tuesday’s court appearance, Santos told WABC Radio’s Frank Morano he is not done with public service and he wants to go back to Congress. “I’m not saying today. I’m not saying tomorrow,” Santos said on the radio show “The Other Side of Midnight” before the court conference.Tuesday. “I have a lot of things I need to take care of first. I think we all know, but I do have hopes of trying to regain the trust of the American people and going there because I will continue to expose and root out the rot in our federal government.” Santos was expelled after the bipartisan House Ethics Committee released its longawaited 56-page report from investigators that found “substantial evidence” Santos violated federal law. Investigators concluded that Santos

used campaign funds for personal purposes, defrauded donors and filed false or incomplete campaign and financial disclosures. Since being expelled Santos has gone viral on social media for his Cameo appearances, a website where celebrities are paid to record video messages ranging from personal stories to pump-up speeches. Prices for a video from Santos started out at $200 each and have gone up to at least $500. The special election to replace Santos and finish out the rest of his term will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 13. Former U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove)–who Santos replaced after he vacated the seat to run unsuccessfully for New York governor – has been chosen by Democrats as their candidate. Republicans are expected to announce their candidate Friday, according to POLITICO, and among the names being considered are Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip (R-Great Neck) and retired NYPD Det. Mike Sapraicone.

Sillitti proposes law to prevent another Santos BY C A M E RY N O A K ES Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (D-Port Washington) introduced legislation that would require greater oversight of candidates and their background claims as well as strengthen candidate disclosure laws in the wake of the lies ousted Rep. George Santos campaigned on. “As we all know, George Santos lied about every aspect of his résumé while running for office, and in doing so not only destroyed the public’s trust in our political system but also left us effectively without any representation in Congress for nearly a year,” Sillitti said. “This can’t happen again.” The bill, also being introduced by state Sen. John Liu, would require New York State candidates to sign a sworn statement affirming their claims of military service, employment history, educational background and current residence and that they meet their residency requirements for the office they are seeking. The sworn statements would then be posted to the candidates’ Board of Elections website 15 days after they submit their petition for candidacy. If they fail to submit the sworn statements, then the law would require a posting on the website stating that they did not submit it. The legislation’s requirement for sworn statements would place candidates under penalty of perjury if they misrepresented their background, while failure to submit the statement would carry a penalty of $1,000 with an additional $25 each succeeding day. Penalties would not be able to be paid with campaign finances. Sillitti said the purpose of her and Liu’s legislation is to “restore the vot-

ers’ trust in the political process and ensure candidates are held accountable for their statements on the campaign trail.” “Voters expect – at the very least – the people running to represent them are who they say they are,” Executive Director of Common Cause/NY Susan Lerner said. “That’s why Sen. Liu and Assembly Member Sillitti’s newly revised bill is important: It raises the accountability bar for candidates and makes it harder for candidates who lack integrity– like Mr. Santos – to defraud New York voters. We’re hopeful lawmakers will pass this bill swiftly come January so no future candidate bamboozles the public again.” The New York State lawmakers announced the legislation at a rally with Common Cause/NY Friday, which was held in front of Santos’ former congressional office in Queens. Santos was expelled from Congress on Dec. 1, following a House Ethics report from investigators that found “substantial evidence” Santos violated federal law and sought to “fraudulently exploit every aspect of his House candidacy for his own personal financial profit.” The report stated that Santos used campaign funds for personal purposes, defrauded donors and filed false or incomplete campaign and financial disclosures. Investigators also contended that his campaign was maintained “through a constant series of lies to his constituents, donors, and staff about his background and experience.” Santos claimed to have graduated from New York University with an MBA and a bachelor of economics and finance from Baruch College, yet a 2021 vulnerability report found that his name was not in the records at ei-

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF GINA SILLITTI

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (Center) speaking on her legislation with State Senator John Liu (Right), and Susan Lerner (Left), Executive Director of Common Cause NY. ther school’s registrar office. He also maintained that he worked for Citigroup and Goldman Sachs, but a Citigroup spokesperson told The New York Times that his employment could not be confirmed. Santos later confirmed the falsehoods when he told the New York Post he “embellished” parts of his resume when running for Congress. “Former Congressman Santos’ deceitful actions throughout his cam-

paign were repugnant and unacceptable,” state Sen, Tony Ann Stavisky said. “While I am pleased Congress expelled him, we must take action to safeguard against fraudulent candidates moving forward.” Santos is facing a 23-count indictment, along with a superseding 10-count indictment delivered to him in October following his initial May indictment and arrest. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

His original 13-count indictment from May included seven counts of wire fraud, three counts of money laundering, one count of theft of public funds, and two counts of making materially false statements to the House of Representatives. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. The 10 new charges Santos is accused of included one count of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, two counts of wire fraud, two counts of lying to the Federal Election Commission, two counts of falsifying records, two counts of aggravated identify theft and one count of device fraud. Santos’ trial is set for September 2024. His ex-campaign aide and excampaign treasurer have pleaded guilty to crimes associated with Santos’ campaign. Former campaign aide Samuel Miele, 27, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and admitted to impersonating former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s former chief of staff, Dan Meyer, as part of a plea deal, Miele is facing upwards of 20 years in prison. Ex-campaign treasurer Nancy Marks, 58, pleaded guilty to conspiring with Santos to commit wire fraud, make materially false statements, obstruct the administration of the Federal Election Commission and commit aggravated identity theft. “It is imperative for our democracy that the George Santos brand of politics ends with his expulsion from Congress,” Liu said. “Candidates for elected office are applying for a job just like anyone else, but George Santos fantasized that his position gave him license to lie, cheat and defraud the American people like a common scam artist.”

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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12 The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

Port water candidates debate contaminants Now re-elected commissioner Meyer says district working to address future pollutants BY C A M E RY N O A K ES All three Port Washington Water District commissioner candidates said one of the main issues they would need to address if elected is contaminants in the water, with the two challengers pushing for more thought on how the district would address new, emerging contaminants in the future. Incumbent Water Commissioner Peter Meyer debated his two challengers – Charles “Chuck” Idol and Mark Gibbons – Thursday night at an event hosted by the Port Washington-Manhasset League of Women Voters. Meyer, a Port Washington resident of about 50 years and owner of Meyer Mechanical Services has served as one of Port’s water commissioners for 23 years. “Port is what I call home,” Meyer said. “As a resident, my family and I share the same needs that every other Port Washington resident requires from their water district.” Idol, a business and technology consultant, has worked in the high-tech field for multiple banks and the federal government for about 30 years. Gibbons is a general contractor who said he started his local company at 16. The candidates responded to questions asked by residents, with multiple addressing issues concerning contaminants in the water, conservation and methods to better the district’s PHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES operations. Multiple residents asked about contami(From left to right) Port Water Commissioner Peter Meyer and candidates Mark Gibbons and Charles “Chuck” Idol debated Thursday nants, specifically PFAS like 1,4-Dioxane, asking the candidates how they would work to con- night as they vie for the post of one of Port’s water commissioners. tinue removing the current contaminants and to look ahead and identify future emerging con“Ten years ago we didn’t know about 1,4-Diwhat their plans are to stay ahead of emerging from entering the water system. He said the district is spending $75 million taminants and how to address them to mitigate oxane, and there’s always going to be something contaminants. new,” Gibbons said. “And it’s how we proactively Meyer said the district currently monitors all over the next 5 years to remove PFAS chemicals harm. When asked what the most important issues look at it and how we are going to take care of of the wells to ensure the water is safe, but that from Port’s water. “So we are working diligently,” Meyer said. the district is facing in the future, Gibbons said it.” contaminants are present in a lot of products But Gibbons and Idol said the district needs it is identifying the next emerging contaminant. Continued on Page 56 that individuals use making it hard to prevent

Laurel Homes renovated in Roslyn Heights BY B R A N D ON D U FF Y Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Monday that the renovation and expansion of the dilapidated Laurel Homes apartment complex in Roslyn Heights has been completed. In 2019 the North Hempstead Town Board unanimously voted to approve plans to redevelop the property. These included the demolishing and rebuilding of all on-site buildings, upgrading or replacing sewer, electric and plumbing lines, increasing the number of units in the affordable housing complex from 66 to 74, and adding 22 parking spots. “We are making ongoing investments to preserve and revitalize our existing housing stock, including in important public housing developments like Laurel Homes,” Hochul said in a statement. Laurel Homes, first built in 1958, is part of the North Hempstead Housing Authority, which includes Pond View Homes and Harbor Homes in Port Washington, Manhasset Valley and Pond View Homes in Manhasset, Spinney Hill Homes in Great Neck, Roslyn Road Apartments in Roslyn and Magnolia Gardens and Homestead Senior Apartments in Westbury. North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said the project will improve the quality of life in both Roslyn and the Town.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF NORTH HEMPSTEAD

Officials celebrate the opening of Laurel Homes in Roslyn Heights.

“The revitalization of Laurel Homes is exciting not only for the 350 individuals and families who live there, but for the community of Roslyn and the Town of North Hempstead,” DeSena said in a statement. “By preserving and enhancing Laurel Homes, we are improving the quality of life of our residents and promoting healthy communities and supporting the local economy.” State Assemblymember Gina Sillitti (DPort Washington) said the project guarantees that “residents can enjoy dignified living conditions and proudly maintain North Hempstead as their home.” The redevelopment, which started in the winter of 2019, was carried out by Jerichobased affordable housing developer Georgica Green Ventures, LLC, and the town’s housing authority. Apartments range from one to fivebedroom units. Sean Rainey, the North Hempstead Housing Authority executive chairman, said the organization is dedicated to providing safe, clean housing to improve the quality of life in the area. “We are so proud of the rebirth of Laurel Homes and are grateful to the dedication of the many professionals who made it happen,” Rainey said.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

Washington D.C. isn’t working for us. I will work day and night with both parties to deliver for the people to make living here more affordable, safer, and better. I delivered for this district before, and I will do it again by putting you ahead of partisanship. Let’s reject the nonsense and get back to work.

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14 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

Opinion

OUR VIEWS

Does David Adhami live in N. Hempstead?

t is possible, even probable, that District 5 Councilman David Adhami lives in North Hempstead – as is required by law. Since being elected in 2021, all political contributions made by Adhami, a Republican, have been made from his home in Great Neck, according to New York State Board of Election records. In 2010, the Great Neck property was sold by Adhami’s parents to him and his sister, according to Nassau County property records. Adhami, a lawyer with a practice in Great Neck, himself said he lived in Great Neck when questioned by a resident about where he lived in November at a Town of North Hempstead board meeting. The resident, Nina Gordon, and Blank Slate Media obtained Town of Hempstead records indicating that Adhami lived in a home in Merrick instead. The records show in October 2021, the Town of Hempstead issued Adhami a permit for a solar panel to be installed on the roof of a home that he and his wife purchased in Merrick in 2021. As part of the permit process, Adhami signed a notarized Hempstead Buildings Department Affidavit of Property Owner that says “David Adhami, being duly sworn, deposes and says: that he or she resides” at the given Merrick address. The notarized application signed by Adhami goes on to say that the applications and plans and “all the statements herein contained are true to deponent’s own knowledge.” Blank Slate also found that Adhami’s wife, Shereen, had posted in November 2020 that she and her husband were looking for a “home with a dock, three bedrooms, two baths and close to the Chabad.” Gordon told the Town of North Hempstead Board in November that “it appears a fraud is being perpetrated on the residents of North Hempstead and I would appreciate an explanation of how and why this is allowed to continue.” Adhami responded at the meeting that he lives in Great Neck.

“I do own a house in Merrick, it’s public record,” he said. “But I do not live there, that is not my primary residence and that is that. I do reside in Great Neck.” But Gordon received no further explanation. Or proof of Adhami’s explanation. Nor did Blank Slate Media, which published a story showing a copy of the affidavit Adhami signed saying he lived in Merrick. This is not a matter without significance. It could have important implications for the balance of power in the town. Republicans on the town board won a 4-3 majority in November, which will give them control in January of a body that has been in Democratic hands for decades. It also gave Republicans control of all three towns in Nassau as well as the county Legislature and all four countywide seats including county executive. If Adhami were to leave, Democrats could regain control of the Town Council in a district that includes North New Hyde Park, Garden City Park, Floral Park and the villages of Saddle Rock, Great Neck Estates, Great Neck Plaza, Russell Gardens, University Gardens, Lake Success and other unincorporated areas. Which leads to an obvious question: Why is there no demand for a public clarification of Adhami’s residence? In a district that just saw its congressman, George Santos, expelled last week from Congress for lying about almost everything in his personal life, including where he lived. House members were also persuaded by an Ethics Committee that found “substantial evidence” Santos violated federal law. Which followed Santos being charged in two indictments with theft, credit card fraud, conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering and theft of public funds. Santos has pleaded not guilty to all charges. In the process, Santos has made the 3rd Congressional District in New York a national laughingstock.

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So, why no call by the town’s Democratic majority in its last days for an investigation that could result in their regaining the majority? It certainly wasn’t to end the two years of party-line votes and partisan bickering on the Town Council. Town of North Hempstead Democrats used their 4-3 advantage over Republicans last week to allocate $3.8 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds for dredging in Manhasset Bay without a single Republican vote. The doubts that Adhami could easily be dispelled by appointing an independent outsider to check both the homes Adhami owns to see where he is actually living. Or Adhami could give the independent agent a copy of the portion of his state and federal tax forms that shows his home address. Yes, it is true, he could lie but that would risk violating state and federal crimes – a very large incentive to tell the truth. Neither Democrats nor Republicans on the Town Council have called, at least publicly, for an investigation to verify where Adhami lives. There is no explanation of why Adhami, a lawyer, signed a notarized statement swearing on a Town of Hempstead application that he lived in Merrick and swearing that he was telling the truth.

REPORTERS Brandon Duffy, Cameryn Oakes COLUMNIST Karen Rubin ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Stacy Shaughnessy, Melissa Spitalnick, Wendy Kates, Barbara Kaplan ART DIRECTOR Yvonne Farley

Why would Adhami sign the document if it wasn’t true? Convenience? Possibly. But if that’s the reason, what else is Adhami saying or signing, out of convenience, that isn’t true? After the Blank Slate Media story was published online, Nassau County Republican Committee counsel John Ryan sent a letter saying Adhami’s “domicile was in the district,” which he termed is the “exclusive geographic test of elective office” in the Town of North Hempstead. “It is the location at which he and his family celebrate anniversaries and observe family birthdays,” Ryan said. “His school-aged child attends school in Great Neck and he and his family belong to Beth Hadassah (The Iranian Jewish Center) on Steamboat Rd. Any suggestion that Dave Adhami’s domicile is anywhere but in the Council District that he represents is either malicious or downright stupid.” He also said the home in Merrick was an investment property. But Ryan did not cite the source or sources of his information on Adhami. And he did not dispute the veracity of the signed affidavit. He is also a member of the Nassau County Republican Committee, which endorsed Santos. Twice. North Hempstead Town Supervisor

Jennifer DeSena, a Republican, has also said Adhami lives in Great Neck without offering any evidence. But DeSena not only endorsed Santos two years ago but campaigned with him throughout North Hempstead. It is unclear what the harm would be if it was determined that a town council member cast votes when he was not eligible to serve. Up until now, Adhami has been part of a Republican minority that has frequently lost 4-3 votes to the Democratic majority. So his vote has not been decisive in Town Council decisions. But that changes in January when a 4-3 Republican majority is sworn in. At that point, someone might be more likely to challenge a party-line council vote based on Adhami’s eligibility. Do Town of North Hempstead voters really want the possibility of another Santos-like embarrassment? The town should appoint an independent third party to verify that Adhami lives where he says he does and find out why he signed an affidavit that says otherwise. As President Reagan said about arms control with the Russians, trust but verify. Especially in the Town of North Hempstead.

PRODUCTION MANAGER Rosemarie Palacios EDITORIAL DESIGNER Lorens Morris CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Deborah Flynn PUBLISHERS OF

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

OUR TOWN

Requiem for real world as fake takes over

s reality fades, the world becomes increasingly lost in the fake make-believe world of Tik-Tok, Facebook, the World Wide Web, Barbie and action heroes. Let us take a moment now to pay homage to what we once had before our reality slips from memory forever. The real world that we once knew and loved was filled with objects, people and things we could touch, smell and hear. In days of old before the arrival of television, we lived in a world populated by things like Pogo sticks, hula hoops and Silly Putty. We also played real board games like Monopoly, Clue, chess and checkers. Back in the day real kids played real stick ball with real bats on real streets. Can you even imagine things like that? When was the last time you saw a group of kids playing touch football on the street? All these real things will slowly disappear and be replaced by new largely unreal things. The world is experiencing the ascendance of the fake. We now have fake news, a fake social life (Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp) and fake experiences. We live in a world of television, AI, ChatGPT and video games. We are getting accustomed to all of this stuff. I wake in the morning and begin to scroll through Facebook. What I expect to find

there is beyond me. The end of the real has been approaching for years and we’ve been given many warnings. Popular art gives us warnings all the time. When Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” music video was released in 1983, it quickly became the most viewed music video in history. The reason something scary captures the culture’s imagination is because it serves up a disturbing cultural phenomenon that people are unconsciously worrying about. That video contained lots of zombies or what we now call the walking dead. The Jackson video was merely the first. Since then we have “28 Days After,” “Dawn of the Dead,” “Resident Evil,” “Zombieland,” “World War Z” and the television series “The Walking Dead.” Zombies represent death in the living. We have all become part of the walking dead as reality is killed off by Tik-Tok, Facebook and the rest. Television, cell phones and social media has become our dominant reality or should I say our dominant unreality. Post-modern theory was been worrying about this same issue since the 1980s and they call this “The End of History.” The French cultural critic Jean Baudrillard is the most well-known post-modern theorist and during the making of “The

York skyline is real as are the museums like MoMA and the Whitney. Broadway is real and so is the Joyce Theater, which is where I went this weekend to enjoy “Dancing with Glass: The Piano Etudes” set to the piano music of Philip Glass. Everything about the performance was real. The dancers were real as was the pianist Maki Namekawa. The sound

of the tap dancers on the hardwood floor was real as was the soft thud that the barefoot dancers made. The applause for the performance was real as were the smiles on the dancer’s faces when they were given a standing ovation. This was not a television experience. This was a real experience. Long live the real.

DR. TOM FERRARO Our Town

Matrix” film the directors used Baudrillard’s books as references. Post-modern theory, as well as popular film, has been warning us to take heed, but there is nowhere to turn. The ascendance of the fake or what Baudrillard calls simulacra has arrived and it’s not about to leave. Henry Adams told us back in 1904 with his essay “A Law of Acceleration” that progress cannot be stopped. All one can do is to look back fondly and with nostalgia and enjoy your memories of the real. We in New York are very lucky indeed because we live near the greatest real city in the world. The New

PHOTO BY TOM FERRARO

The unreal is always bigger and bolder than the real, just ask Sponge Bob Squarepants

ON THE RIGHT

Books for political junkies this Christmas

or folks who give books at Christmas to political junkie friends and relatives, here are my 2023 gift book picks. “Where Have All the Democrats Gone” by John B. Judis and Ruy Teixeira. The authors, noted liberal political analysts, who predicted in 2002 an emerging Democratic majority that would have a long-term lock on the Electoral College, concede that their expectations did not come to pass. Their explanation: “Democrats have steadily lost the allegiance of everyday Americans—working and middle-class voters—that were the core of the older New Deal coalition.” They persuasively argue that radical leftist and globalist elites who dominate the party, have been advocating economic and social positions that have driven working-class voters into the arms of the Republicans. This book should be read by Nassau and Suffolk County Democratic leaders interested in understanding why Long Island has been hit with Election Day red waves in 2022 and 2023. “The Year That Broke Politics: Collusion and Chaos in the Presidential Election

of 1968” by Luke A. Nichter. This book is a much-needed update on the 1968 making of a president. The events of 1960 were earth-shattering: A little known U.S. senator, Gene McCarthy, drove President Lyndon Johnson to announce his retirement. The assassinations of Martin Luther King and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy shook the very core of the nation. And the man written off as a loser, Richard Nixon made one of the greatest comebacks in presidential history. Nichter, a professor of history at Chapman University, attempts to “rebalance the scales of history” based on documents that have become available in recent years. He rejects “the Democratic consensus … that Nixon stole the 1968 election by committing treason and violating the Logan Act.” And he rejects the “Republican consensus that Johnson, by creating the illusion of a sudden change in the status of the [Vietnam] War, made a last-minute effort to steal the election for Humphrey, which failed.” “America’s Cultural Revolution: How the Radical Left Conquered Everything” by Christopher F. Rufo. To understand why conservatives have been losing the

GEORGE J. MARLIN On The Right war for America’s cultural soul, Rufo’s book is a must read. Since the 1960s, hardcore leftists have been executing plans to silence, marginalize, and suppress dissent—all in the name of tolerance. The intellectual founder of this ideological movement was the Marxist Herbert Marcuse (1898-1979). Marcuse, a longtime professor at the University of California in San Diego,

called for “the complete disintegration of existing society, beginning with a revolt in the universities and the ghettos” and the eventual capturing of “public institutions and the cultural repression of the opposition.” His heirs encouraged followers to invade the university system and conquer its administration and academic departments. The results: Graduates brainwashed by radical ideology professors have been invading all aspects of American Life. In just about every field, conservatives have been steamrolled by left-wing culture warriors. Before conservatives go on an offensive, they should get to know the enemy by studying Rufo’s extraordinary work. “Orwell: The New Life” by D.J. Taylor. George Orwell, the author of “Animal Farm” and “1984,” is the subject of an updated biography by his finest chronicler. Utilizing previously unknown sources, Taylor not only examines Orwell “in the context of his time but sees him through the exacting prism of the 21st Century.” Taylor contends that Orwell “is not merely a popular writer he is someone

who has quarried his way down into the heart of the human condition and, by doing so, managed to colonize the mental world both of his own age and the ones that followed.” “The Dillon Era: Douglas Dillon in the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson Administrations” by Richard Aldous. One of the unsung heroes of the 1950s and 1960s is C. Douglas Dillon. The heir of the investment firm Dillon Read, he gave up Wall Street for public service. He served admirably in the Eisenhower administration as ambassador to France and later as the state department’s second-in-command. The political world was shocked when President Kennedy chose Dillon to be secretary of the Treasury. It was Dillon who convinced JFK to push for significant tax cuts to jump-start a lackluster economy. And during the Cuban Missile Crisis, he was a major voice in the decision-making process. Dillon was a commanding figure, a true gentleman, noted for being calm, measured, and understated. We need more of his type in Washington. Happy reading in 2024!

LETTERS POLICY Letters should be typed or neatly handwritten, and those longer than 750 words may be edited for brevity and clarity. All letters must include the writer’s name and phone number for verification. Anonymously sent letters will not be printed. Letters must be received by Monday noon to appear in the next week’s paper. All letters become the property of Blank Slate Media LLC and may be republished in any format. Letters can be submitted online at theisland360.com/submit-opinion/ or mailed to Blank Slate Media, 22 Planting Field Road, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577.

16 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

VIEW POINT

Nassau must do more to improve traffic safety

e are entering the time of year when it is most dangerous to be on our roadways – it is the period of longest darkness, lots of holiday merrymaking and gatherings where people are more apt to party too hardy and then get behind the wheel. Which makes Newsday’s recent headline all the more disturbing: “Long Island traffic deaths surge; reckless driving up, enforcement down since 2019, Newsday analysis finds” (https://www. newsday.com/long-island/transportation/deadly-roads-reckless-enforcementm5e0lat7) Newsday also reported that Long Island tops the entire state for the number of seniors 65 and older killed in vehicular accidents. Traffic fatalities on Long Island last year surged to the highest levels since 2015, as dangerous driving increased post-COVID-19 and police traffic enforcement dropped, according to the Newsday analysis. Another Newsday story reports that nearly 60% of drivers surveyed nationally by AAA admitted to engaging in risky behavior, including speeding, driving aggressively, distracted driving including texting behind the wheel or driving impaired (https://www.newsday.com/ long-island/transportation/aaa-studydangerous-driving-survey-es8l8tvy). “It is abundantly clear that something in the collective psyche has disintegrated in terms of careful driving,” Maureen McCormick, who established Nassau County’s and New York City’s vehicular crimes bureaus, told Newsday. But none of these factors obviates the responsibility of municipalities, from

villages to counties to the state, to do more to make roadways safer, much as they would like to ignore their own responsibility or accountability and make the excuse that roads are state, county or village (but not mine). And, of course, there’s not enough money. There are things that should be done – the “low hanging fruit” – such as better lighting, better signage at major intersections and before coming to an intersection, also more visible addresses on commercial and residential buildings, better street lighting, and a better effort to get people out of cars – like more northsouth mass transit (perhaps light rail?), and bike racks on buses like most cities have. But the thornier – and costlier – problem is road design. Long Island, America’s first Suburbia, was designed for automobiles, not pedestrians or cyclists, not the elderly or disabled, even though the state since 2011 has been dying to give money away for Complete Streets strategies. These involve traffic-calming measures like “road diet,” colored pavers at crosswalks, bump-outs for drop offs and even some trolley service to cut down on car traffic, medians where pedestrians can stop, better traffic light systems, to make downtowns safer and at the same time, boost the local economy. “Grants are difficult to get,” says Great Neck Plaza’s former mayor, Jean Celender, who was successful during the course of her administration in winning several grants and redesigning the village roadways to calm traffic, improve safety and beautify the village. That might have been true, but now

KAREN RUBIN View Point

there is absolutely no excuse. Nassau got $385 million in federal funding in 2021 from the American Rescue Plan Act (the funds have to be allocated for specific purposes by Dec. 31, 2024, and spent by the end of 2026, or lose it; the county has so far allocated $186.6 million and spent $69.5 million), and Biden’s Department of Transportation has been awarding billions for infrastructure improvements. The obstacle is more that county public works departments have resisted design improvements that might improve safety. “It’s uncomfortable for transportation agencies to talk about design issues because then they take accountability for their roads,” said Eric Alexander, director of Vision Long Island. “They would rather talk about enforcement, drugs and driver and pedestrian responsibility, than talk about speed because then have to be accountable for how their roads

are designed for high speeds. Maybe it was never anticipated when roads were planned in the 1970s that more people would be walking, biking on roads, but they have to change.” Alexander, whose organization has conducted “Complete Streets” and “Smart Growth” conferences for years and organized 20 “walking audits” to advise villages of steps they can make to improve safety, pointed to several communities on Long Island — Lindenhurst, Amityville, Hempstead among them — that are improving their downtowns in tandem Complete Streets principles, often in conjunction with the state’s $10 million downtown Revitalization Initiative grants. Another evasion to avoid fixing roadways is that roads may be under some other jurisdiction — state, county or village. But that only means they need to work in collaboration. This was the case when the old Village of Great Neck had the rarest opportunity to transform Middle Neck Road when the county repaved the length of the dangerous roadway, an opportunity that won’t likely come around again for 40 years. The county’s public works department (then under former County Executive Laura Curran) was almost begging the village to present a plan, which never came. Instead, the village replanted bushes in the median that now impede sight of oncoming traffic if you are making a left turn. I think one of the reasons local electeds are afraid to advocate for “traffic calming” and safety measures is cowardice and laziness. I remember when then-Plaza Mayor Celender proposed

putting Great Neck Road on a road diet that brought out mobs with pitchforks. But she has been proved absolutely right. Celender is more generous. “These grant projects are extremely complex, take large amounts of grant funds and require coordination with agencies on their funding cycles, etc.,” she said. “We are talking about years to secure and implement construction funds. But to start off, a village could do a Walking Audit with Vision LI or a transportation engineering consultant and can make some common sense improvements.” She cited repainting crosswalks, improving lighting for the dark winter months, resynchronizing traffic signals and implementing better roadway design. “We need tougher laws focused on impaired driving, speeding, local road rage and wearing seat belts. Enforcement and public education are critical. There are proven solutions that crashes and accidents can be preventable. The 3 ‘E’s of Engineering, Enforcement and Education are necessary in a comprehensive program to reduce accidents and make roadways and sidewalks safer.” And what about the highways and parkways? The state’s Department of Transportation site (https://www.dot. ny.gov/projects) lists only two safety enhancement projects under construction in Nassau County and two others “under development” (“locations and scope to be determined”). Suffolk has one safety enhancement under construction and six vaguely listed as “future development.” Long Islanders treasure our “suburban quality of life.” But not if it is cut short.

E A R T H M AT T E R S

We can’t cop out on climate change response

arge, wealthy nations are to blame for the devastating effects of global warming. Yes, that’s US: the United States of America ranks among the top five in both fossil fuel production and greenhouse gas emissions. The most vulnerable countries are the least responsible for the environmental impact of climate change. Small island nations in the global south are suffering loss of land and livelihoods due to rising sea levels. Here on Long Island we are no strangers to flooding and erosion, but innocent small island nations are literally drowning. The peaceful island nation of Kiribati in Micronesia is already partly underwater. Many have been forced to migrate. While these small Pacific Islands are responsible for less than 1% of total global greenhouse gas emissions, they are suffering disproportionate impacts from climate change. In response to this global crisis, the United Nations hosts an annual conference where world leaders, grassroots, special interests, corporations, lobbyists, NGOs and indigenous people gather in

an attempt to negotiate actions to address climate change. This year the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change took place in Dubai. Rumors of fossil fuel deals being made at the COP28 cast long shadows on the credibility of this conference. In what may be a desperate attempt to remain in power, fossil fuel special interests were never been in greater numbers at the COP. The Kick Big Polluters Out coalition estimated that at least 2,456 people affiliated with oil and gas industries attended COP28. Not surprisingly, COP28 went into overtime with inconclusive results. Pledges to reduce emissions aren’t enough for vulnerable countries. The Alliance of Small Island States insists on stronger language followed by bold action. In contrast, the leader of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries cartel openly resisted strong language in terms of ending the use of fossil fuels to power the world economies. It’s clear that we must stop emitting greenhouse gasses. But greed and ignorance seem to overpower our collective survival skills. Unfortunately, the money

HILDUR PALSDOTTIR Earth Matters

we make on fossil fuel deals will not cure this crisis. And soon the money we’ve made will hardly meet the cost of repair. At last year’s COP the Fund for Losses and Damages was established to support the most vulnerable nations. Developing countries will need at least $215 billion to $387 billion a year for climate adaptation. Extreme weather events cost the U.S. about $150 billion per year. Here on Long Island estimates suggest we must

cough up at least $10 billion a year to repair climate-related damages. In Nature Communications (2023) researchers estimated the cost of extreme weather damages from 2000 to 2019 at around $143 billion, or $16.3 million per hour. The global cost of climate change damage is expected to be in the trillions per year by 2050. It’s clear that it’s much more affordable to make the clean energy transition today. We desperately need better policy for industry accountability. It is timely that we redirect the cost of climate disasters back to the polluters. “Public policy should protect the public, not Big Oil. Make Big Oil pay” writes NYPIRG Legislative Director Blair Horner in a Dec. 5 guest essay in Newsday. And the Climate Change Superfund Act demands industry accountability. We must encourage Gov. Kathy Hochul and the New York State Assembly to sign this bill. Former President Trump recently threatened that if he returns to the White House, his first job will be to “drill, drill, drill.” This is not a fire drill. We’ve got one chance at re-establishing viable conditions for future humans.

We need to stop drilling for fossil fuels. We can’t afford to make the mistake of returning the power to Trump and his supporters. As long as we keep burning fossil fuels, carbon dioxide will continue to build up in the air causing warming and climate instability. I sure hope the American majority will vote for a future for mankind. Clean energy has never been more affordable. The Biden-Harris administration’s ambitious climate pledge in 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act, offers incentives, rebates and tax credits for consumers to invest in rooftop solar, purchase pollution-free electric vehicles and support the electrification of households. If your furnace or boiler needs replacement, invest in a heat pump. If you’re remodeling your kitchen, replace your gas stove with an induction stove. The clean energy transition helps stabilize the climate, but also offers immediate rewards by lowering your energy bill. The easiest way to reduce emissions is to ask for a free energy audit and invest in weatherizing your home to prevent causing emissions by wasting energy. Wishing you fossil fuel-free holidays.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

F R O M T H E D E S K O F S I E L A A . BY N O E

All roads must lead to better traffic safety

or elected officials at any level of service, traffic safety – and efforts to marshal the resources necessary to preserve and enhance it – will always be among the most pressing of our assignments. In both the present and future iterations of the Second Legislative District, the need has shown itself to be especially acute. In the summer of 2022, Vision Long Island released a walking and design study illustrating how traffic safety in multiple communities, including those within the 2nd District, is imperiled by “busy intersections without sidewalks or crosswalks, wide roadways seemingly designed for speed, and a lack of pedestrian walk signals or medians.” We are all painfully aware of what these conditions can cause. In Lakeview, motorists swerving around manhole covers jutting out of Woodfield Road has resulted in crashes and properties being struck by vehicles. In portions of West Hempstead immediately outside the Second District, Woodfield Road has been the site multiple tragic incidents in which pedestrians were struck by motorists. Two of the victims who lost their lives in those crashes were students. There is a clear and urgent need for action, and while enforcing traffic laws is an important element of the solution, enforcement alone is not suf-

ficient. The roadways themselves must also be designed in a manner that encourages safer driving and creates an optimal setting for pedestrians and bicyclists to traverse these thoroughfares. By doing so, we also benefit in many cases from the creation of an inviting downtown atmosphere that stimulates economic activity and strengthens local small businesses. Guided by community input, this is a model for improving safety and stimulating economic growth that can be replicated in downtowns throughout our region, and to that end,Nassau County’s capital plan is a critical tool for effectuating change in our community. It is one I have leveraged throughout my tenure for that purpose. In Lakeview, I have worked closely with Nassau County’s Department of Public Works to correct the raised manhole covers on Woodfield Road in advance of a full traffic calming initiative. The combined $8.232 million for the Woodfield Road and Lakeview Avenue traffic safety initiatives will incorporate Eagle Avenue near the community’s Long Island Railroad station through Lakeview Avenue. Responding to constituent concerns in the Village of Hempstead,I worked to secure the inclusion of more than $40million for improvements

SIELA A. BYNOE

Nassau County Legislator to Franklin Avenue,Washington Avenue, Peninsula Boulevard and Clinton Street. Westbury, where we recently celebrated the completion of the New York State-funded mixed-use, transit-oriented Downtown Revitalization Initiative, is a shining example of how smart road design is crucial to economic vibrancy. Nassau has buttressed these efforts with $18.5 million in capital funding for forthcoming streetscape and traffic safety improvements to address Maple Avenue from Union Avenue to Post Avenue; a streetscape and traffic safety project addressing Union Avenue between the railroad and Brush Hollow Road; and traffic safety improvements

on Brush Hollow Road. Westbury’s success has demonstrated that is a model that can be replicated throughout our region with the benefit of ample community guidance. After personally witnessing several near collisions while speaking to residents and walking the district’s newly apportioned areas of Uniondale during the summer campaign season,I requested the inclusion of millions of dollars in new improvements to Jerusalem Avenue, Uniondale Avenue, and Nassau Road in Uniondale. To ensure the project benefits from the full breadth of Vision Long Island and AARP’s expertise, I requested a walking audit focused on Jerusalem Avenue, which we completed in midOctober. Although I will no longer have the privilege of representing Lakeview or certain portions of Hempstead in the newly reapportioned Second District, I remain deeply committed to ensuring the timely delivery of these essential resources. My office has convened key stakeholders to form Traffic Safety and Streetscape Initiatives focused upon the forthcoming projects in the Village of Hempstead and in Lakeview. Both committees held their first meetings in October and are already hard at work overseeing the progress of these projects.

Negotiations for Nassau County’s Fiscal Year 2024 capital plan with our counterparts in the Legislative majority and the County administration are another important accountability tool. Because the capital plan requires a 13-vote supermajority for enactment, no action can be taken without the support of the Legislative minority. That firewall will remain in place when the Legislature convenes its new term next year. Attending related seminars and applied learning experiences of the walk audits led by nationally renowned expert David Burden has fueled and informed my quest to deliver safer roadways. Past experiences confirm that we can achieve our objectives efficiently and effectively by working collaboratively with all levels of government and community stakeholders to identify both dangerous flooding and driving conditions and opportunities for improvements to our business districts. These are permanent solutions that can be achieved by re-configuring roadways and applying varying inexpensive materials and methodologies toward yielding positive driving habits for safer transportation. Siela A. Bynoe, of Westbury, has represented Nassau County’s 2nd Legislative District since 2014.

READERS WRITE

Save Kings Point Park from one-sided lease

t’s time for transparency in the Great Neck Park District. The Great Neck Park District’s duty is to negotiate leases for the benefit of all its residents. The lease for Kings Point Park is so one-sided that it permits the Village of Kings Point to cancel the lease and take back the park after park district residents have invested millions in rent and improvements. A real likelihood exists that this will occur, and the commissioners did not guarantee any lasting benefit to the taxpayers other than saddling them with $15 million in debt. This lease is a blueprint for the destruction of the forested parkland and protected wetlands in the 173-acre Kings Point Park. The park is 90% protected wetlands that cannot be built on, according to the Department of Environmental Conservation. The lease lists items it plans on constructing in the park such as: synthetic turf fields, more parking areas, an athletic indoor field house, a bubble with turf fields, indoor tennis courts, a park building for onsite maintenance and recreation, and more, all of which cannot be built on protected wetlands! The lease clearly favors the Village of Kings Point. • Raises the yearly rent 900% (from $37,000.00 to $350,000.00)

• Adds additional $100,000 yearly rent for a parking lot at Steppingstone Park • Obligates all taxpayers of the Great Neck Park District to obtain and pay for a$15 million bond. Put $10 million of improvements into Kings Point Park— How? Where? You can’t touch 90% of the park!? And $5,000,000.00 in improvements into parks only in Kings Point. So, all of Great Neck Park District residents pay for improvements in park district properties in Kings Point and the Village of Kings Point can then refuse to renew the lease. Also, the Village of Kings Point receives all improvements paid for by taxpayers for free if the lease is canceled in 20 years. The park district approved the Village of Kings Point’s request to alienate (remove from park status) 5 acres of parkland. The Village will now seek this approval from the state Legislature in exchange for a parking lot next to Steppingstone. What land were they really thinking of alienating? Don’t be fooled by the park district telling you it was the 5 acres of forested parkland. That land is not part of the lease so the Park District would not need to approve it. This lease is just one example of

abuse of your hard-earned tax dollars. It is also an environmental disaster! The destruction of forests and wetlands will lead to more flooding in Kings Point and the surrounding areas as there will be nowhere for the floodwaters to go. Residents are concerned that Kings Point parkland will be leased or sold and that access roads will be built through the Park. The only thing holding back the construction of a large parking lot (as originally planned) behind the enormous community center/religious school being built on Steamboat Road is the green light from the village and park district. Five-story buildings can now be built on Steamboat Road bordering the park courtesy of the new law passed by the Village of Great Neck. And while the Village of Kings Point denies plans to build roads through the park, when emergency vehicles can’t get access due to traffic, a road or roads will most certainly be built — through the environmentally protected wetlands. The commissioners entrusted to protect our parks and tax dollars are not working for us, as demonstrated most recently by this poorly negotiated lease. They are also depleting the park district reserves (just ask to see their budget), scheduling public meetings on short notice to reduce turnout (in violation of New York State Public Officers

Law), ignoring resident requests to see financial documents (flouting Freedom of Information Law Requests) and spending tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars on outdoor skating rinks to gain support days before the election. (In 2019, approximately $400,000.00 was spent for Frank Cilluffo’s contested election and now over $30,000.00 is being spent for Tina Stellato’s contested election the weekend before the election). The legitimacy of the recent park commissioner Elections is questioned. In 2021 Vanessa Tamari harvested thousands of ballots. https://www.dailykos. com/stories/2022/1/21/2076088/-Local-Election-Proves-How-To-for-Rightwi ngers-Laying-Steppingstones-for-Higher-Offices . In 2022 Cilluffo collected 700 ballots in one weekend. In both elections, voters who wish to remain anonymous for fear of retribution realized that an absentee ballot was cast in their name when they never requested one. Park district employees questioned the legitimacy of the election. The Park District immediately gave the employees a 4% raise, told them to accept the election results, asked them not to backbite others and to report those who do. Now, in 2023, the Park District has processed over 1,300 absentee ballots, and it is questioned how many are for

incumbent Commissioner Tina Stellato. Stellato’s husband, a park district employee, quadrupled his salary from 2019 to 2022 while his wife has been serving as park commissioner. www. seethroughny.net The Great Neck Park District and its parks are the crown jewel of Great Neck, setting it apart from all other Long Island towns. But present leadership and Commissioners seem intent on destroying them. Act now, stop the destruction of Kings Point Park! 1. Contact state Assemblywoman Gina Sillittihttps://nyassembly.gov/ mem/Gina-L-Sillitti/contact2. and state Sen. Jack Martins https://www.nysenate.gov/senators/jack-m-martins/ contact and demand that they NOT sponsor or vote for a bill to alienate ANY land in Kings Point Park.3. Vote out Tina Stellato as commissioner on Tuesday, Dec. 124. Request an investigation into the Great Neck Park District by state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli https://www.osc.ny.gov/investigations5. Request an investigation into the Great Neck Park District by state Attorney General Letitia James https:// ag.ny.gov/file-complaint/corruptionwrongdoing Carl Schweitzer Great Neck

18 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

READERS WRITE

Liz Cheney, Trump supporters and network ratings

ormer Congresswoman Liz Cheney’s book “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning” is in fact a warning that democracy is at stake if Trump is elected. She provides details that he’s already attempted to seize power, new details on the capitol riot and so much more about how dangerous he is and his capability to be even worse. The book is getting great publicity. Congresswoman Cheney has given interviews with many of the television network’s anchors. Included were Rachel Maddow and Nicole Wallace of MSNBC, John Dickerson of “CBS News Sunday Morning,” Savannah Guthrie of NBC’s

Today show, Kasie Hunt of CNN, “The Beat” with Ari Melber, and panelists on “Meet the Press” and Morning Joe. Newspapers have also given the book great exposure. Hey, Trump supporters! Did you notice what network is missing from the above list? It’s the Fox News network or should I say the chicken network. You would think that a news network would have enough highly qualiﬁed anchors who could hold their own with one former congresswoman who hopefully would be allowed to present her facts without interruptions. From a ratings point of view, the

audience would be overwhelming. In addition to the normal Fox News audience, the MSNBC and CNN audience would ﬂock to Fox to see this heavyweight title bout. You would think that Fox would welcome Liz Cheney with open arms, who from 2017 to 2020, Trump’s term as president, voted with him 92.9% of the time and was one of the most conservative members of the House of Representatives. From 2019 to 2021, she held the 3rd highest position in House Republican leadership. And, from a Republican Party point of view, few families have had more loyalty to the party than the

Cheney’s? Her father, Dick Cheney, served as the Vice President of the United States under President George W, Bush from 2001 to 2009. However, he voiced support for his daughter and called Trump “a maniac” and commended his daughter’s decision to vote for impeachment. Why should Liz Cheney be believed.? As she stated, “As a conservative Republican, the most conservative of conservative principles is reverence for the rule of law. The Trump Department of Justice investigated the former president’s claims of widespread fraud and found no evidence to support them.

The election is over. This is the rule of law. This is our constitutional process. Those who refuse to accept the rulings of our courts are at war with the Constitution. Today we face a threat America has never seen before. A former president who provoked a violent attack on this Capitol in an eﬀort to steal the election has resumed his aggressive eﬀort to convince Americans that the election was stolen from him. He risks inciting further violence.” Hopefully, Fox will agree to remove the chicken label. Alvin Goldberg Great Neck

Is $7.7B for 2nd Ave. subway’s next phase worth it?

ecretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Gov. Kathy Hochul, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer and Manhattan Congressman Adriano Espaillat’s joint announcement of delivering billions in federal funding for construction of Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 leaves motorists, riders and taxpayers paying for one of the most expensive MTA transit projects in history. It would be second only to the $11.6 billion LIRR East Side Access to Grand Central Madison. MTA accepted the terms and conditions within the $7.7 billion Federal Transit Administration Capital Investment Grant. FTA caps

its funding at $3.4 billion. The MTA is responsible for both the $4.3 billion local share and any inevitable cost overruns. MTA is committed to providing $378 million each year from 2025 up to 2032 representing a majority of the local share.. How can the MTA make such a legal commitment for this time period when the MTA board, state Legislature and governor have not submitted, reviewed or approved the next 20252029 and 2030-2034 five-year capital plans? In April 2019, the MTA Office of Capital Construction President Janno Lieber claimed that the MTA could save between $500 million

to $1 billion in costs for the proposed Second Avenue Subway Phase 2. This would have reduced the overall tab to almost $5 billion. Promised cost savings were based upon reduction in excavation for the 125th Street Station and building the 116th Street Station in space no longer needed for other project work. Fast forward to February 2022, and instead the cost increased to $6.9 billion, while in 2023, the cost grew to $7.7 billion. Part of the project cost includes spending $3.4 billion to pay for three new stations. Based upon my previous experience working at FTA, these may be the most expensive stations built in America.

These $4.3 billion in local funds could have been programmed to pay for upgrading outdated signal systems on many of the NYC Transit 26 subway lines. That investment would benefit far more riders than Second Avenue Subway Phase 2. If Congestion Toll Pricing doesn’t raise the anticipated annual $1 billion, how will the MTA make up for the shortfall? Which state of good repair capital projects will be delayed or canceled to preserve Second Avenue Phase 2 local funding? The other 95% of 5 million MTA pre-COVID 19 riders, who don’t benefit from this investment, will be stuck with the tab. The MTA claims this project

would benefit 100,000 anticipated NYC Transit subway riders out of over 5 million pre COVID-19 numbers. This represents a very small fraction of daily riders and may be wishful thinking. Any independent cost benefit analysis might cast doubt that this a sound investment for commuters and taxpayers. Buyer beware! 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.

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Simon and Garfunkel tribute group at Temple Emanuel event Stephen C. Widom Cultural Arts at Emanuel will present, live, “Forever Simon & Garfunkel, a Tribute,” on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3:00 p.m. at Temple Emanuel of Great Neck. Forever Simon & Garfunkel: A Tribute celebrates the best-selling duo in rock ’n’ roll history.

With humor, soaring energy, charm, and laserprecise harmony, Sean Altman and Jack Skuller lead the audience on a concert journey through Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s teenage roots, their early success as a groovy folk act, their global dominance as hit-makers, and even some

of Paul Simon’s solo career. “The Sound of Silence,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “I Am A Rock,” “The Boxer,” “Homeward Bound,” “Cecilia,” “Hazy Shade Of Winter,” “Feeling Groovy,” “Me & Julio Down by the Schoolyard,” “Koda-

chrome,” and many more! Award-winning singer-songwriters Sean Altman (Rockapella) & Jack Skuller (Songwriters Hall Of Fame — Buddy Holly Prize) met on stage in 2010, when they were paired at a variety show to duet “Mrs. Robinson.” Jack had just celebrated his 14th birthday, and Sean had just celebrated his shiny new AARP card, but the audience found their December-January musical bromance and brotherly harmony to be enchanting and mesmerizing. Jack Skullersigned his ﬁrst recording contract at just 14 years old. His debut single “Love is a Drum” was called “arguably the best single released by anyone [that] year” by The Examiner, and The New York Post labeled Skuller “a mini Jack White.” His music career has since earned him a reputation for powerful live shows rooted in old school rock’n’roll. Ex-Rockapella starSean Altmanis “tuneful and sharply witty” (Los Angeles Times) and “relentlessly clever” (Chicago Tribune), with “catchy melodies, clever arrangements and lyrics that yield satiric gems” (Washington Post), combining “the tunefulness of the Beatles and the spot-on wit of Tom Lehrer” (Boston Globe) with a “silky tenor voice that produced chills” (New York Times). Altman — widely regarded as “the Father of Modern A Cappella.” Tickets are $20. For further information, to register and purchase a ticket online, go to: https://www.scwculturalarts.org/sunday-series or, call (516) 482-5701 to purchase a ticket over the phone. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door. Temple Emanuel of Great Neck is located at 150 Hicks Lane, Great Neck, NY 11024.

“Forever Simon and Garfunkel: A Tribute” at Temple Emanuel in Great Neck, Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3 p.m.

20 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

Annual Dinosaur Carnival in Rockville Centre The Center for Science will be hosting its second annual Dinosaur Carnival from Saturday, Dec. 23 to Sunday, Dec. 31 at its Dinosaurs! Exhibit in Rockville Centre. From 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m., families will enjoy dinosaur-inspired carnival games, face painting, educational programs, encounters with friendly dinosaur characters, giveaways, prizes and more. Tickets are $12 for children ages 2-13, $15 for children and adults ages 14 and up and $12 for seniors over 65. Tickets include entry into the Dinosaurs! and Live Animals Exhibit. The Carnival will be closed on Monday, Dec. 25 and on Wednesday, Dec. 27. “The holiday break is a perfect time for families to visit our dinosaur exhibit with 10 animatronic dinosaurs and more than 20 realistic dinosaur skeleton casts. Our Dinosaur carnival creates a fun atmosphere combined with science and learning. The exhibit is great for all ages and unlike any other attraction on Long Island,” said Ray Ann Havasy, executive director of The Center for Science. The Dinosaurs! And Live Animals Exhibit gives visitors a unique up-close-and-personal experience where they learn how animals adapt and survive, which is demonstrated through a unique intermixing of dinosaurs and live animals together. Families and children will be impressed by the floor-to-ceiling hand-painted prehistoric dinosaur murals. Live wild animals that are part of the exhibit, include owls, emus, golden pheasants, goats, snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs and more. As a science and STEM education-focused not-for-profit organization, the Center for Science is dedicated to providing students of all ages with a place to engage in both formal and PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CENTER FOR SCIENCE informal learning. To purchase tickets or to learn more about The Center for Science, please visit,www.cstl.org. Children and families to gather at The Center for Science’s second annual Dinosaur Carnival.

Qin Sun Stubis to present ‘Once Our Lives’ talk Qin Sun Stubis grew up in the squalor of a Shanghai shantytown during the Great Chinese Famine, her once-prestigious family was shunned as political pariahs and forced to endure chronic poverty, torture, treacherous political shifts, and even an assassination attempt. But their nights came alive with stories of the family’s incredible history: colorful tales of pirates, prophecies, fortunes won and lost, glorious lives and gruesome deaths. Based on actual experiences and family lore from the post-Imperial to post-Cultural Revolution eras, Qin – a longtime newspaper columnist exploring the similarities and differences between East and West – has united these stories in a gorgeously written and gripping nonfiction narrative, Once Our Lives,uncovering one of the most fascinating yet largely overlooked portions of Chinese history, as told by those who lived it. This is the remarkable true story of four generations of Chinese women and how their lives were threatened by powerful and cruel ancient traditions, historic upheavals, gender oppression, and a man whose fate – cursed by a superstitious prophecy that appears to come true – dramatically altered their destinies. The book takes the reader on an exotic journey filled with luxurious banquets, lost jewels, babies sold in opium dens, kidnappings at sea, and a desperate flight from death in the desert – seen through the eyes

of a man for whom the truth would spell disaster and a lonely, beautiful girl with three identities. About the author:Eventually, through sheer grit and perseverance, Qin Sun Stubis won admission to the famed Shanghai Institute of Foreign Languages and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and English Literature. With the help of family, friends, and a powerful U.S. senator, Qin was granted a visa to study abroad. She arrived in America with two suitcases and not much more. After winning several scholarships, she graduated with a master’s degree and a profound love for her new adoptive country. For the past 15 years, Qin has been a newspaper columnist and writes poems, essays, short stories, and original Chinese tall tales inspired by traditional Asian themes. Her writing is inflected with both Eastern and Western flavors in ways that transcend geography to touch hearts and reveal universal truths. The Great Neck Library author event is on Monday, Dec. 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the Main Library 159 Bayview Avenue in Great Neck. Registration is not required. First come first seated. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event. For more information, please contact Great Neck Library at (516) 466-8055 or email adultprogramming@greatnecklibrary.org.

Qin Sun Stubis

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Feeling blue this holiday season? If so, you are not alone. The Congregational Church is hosting a 3 p.m. service on Sunday, Dec. 17, that might prove helpful. The church’s “Blue Christmas” service will include prayers, scripture, and music as a reminder that God is ever near. Why do people feel down during the holidays? According to Rev. Jimmy Only, “It could be for a variety of reasons. It could be COVID fatigue. It could be the death of a loved one. It could be painful memories. It could be a pro-

longed illness or a diﬃcult diagnosis. It could be an unhappy marriage or unemployment. It could be sadness at the realization that life may never be what it once was.” Whatever the cause, The Congregational Church’s “Blue Christmas” Service might help make the holidays more palatable. The Congregational Church is located at 1845 Northern Blvd. in Manhasset (across from the Apple Store). For more information contact Rev. Jimmy Only or Rev. Lori Burgess at 516526-8391 or visit www.uccmanhasset.org.

Artists from ACLD exhibit at SUNY Old Westbury The Social and Environmental Justice Institute at SUNY Old Westbury is hosting an exhibition in its art lab highlighting works by adults with autism, learning and development disabilities. In partnership with ACLD, the display includes various art forms including clay masks, jewelry, pottery, and 3D paper artwork. It will be on exhibit through December 15. The concept came to life thanks to Emily Colwell, a 2023Visual Arts graduate of the university and now lead arts specialist at the ACLD Art Studio Program. Colwell reached out to the director of the Art Lab and Amelie A. Wallace Gallery Hyewon Yito make it happen. “The ACLD Art Studio is thrilled that SUNY Old Westbury was able to provide us a space for the art exhibit — our artists are excited for the

support and visibility,” said Colwell. Of the partnership, Yi said: “Providing an exhibition opportunity to these adults is part of our mission for social justice. I think this is a great project that engages the community, it is very touching and moving to see them reacting to their work on display.” ACLD is a leading Long Island-based notfor-proﬁt organization, founded in 1957, whose mission is to provide opportunities for children and adults with autism, and learning and developmental disabilities to pursue enviable lives, promote independence and foster supportive relationships within the community. Their art studio program, started in 2019 to oﬀer creativity, interest, expression, exploration, socialization, and growth in the arts to participants that attend adult day programs.

Additonal items may be purchased at menu price. Toppings available for an additional cost. May not be combined with any other coupon, discount, offer, or Groupon. Prices do not include tax or gratuity. Available for takeout only. No substitutions.

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Blue Christmas service at Congregational Church

10/30/2022 8:22:20 PM

HOLIDAY PARTIES

10/30/2022 8:22:20 PM

Book any party from Monday, December 4 – Thursday, December 21, between the hours of 3:00 – 6:00PM and receive 20% off your total bill. Offer valid Monday through Thursday only!

2 FOR $20 LUNCH SPECIAL Any ½ Salad and 12” Regular Pizzas Available Mon–Fri from 11:30AM–4:00PM May not be shared. Dine-in only. Not combinable with any other offer, coupon, or Groupon. Toppings not included.

TOPPING TUESDAYS

HAPPY HOUR RETURNS

½ Price Toppings on All 18” Pizzas

½ Price Drinks at the Bar Only

Tuesdays only. Dine-in only.

Mon–Thu from 12–4PM

DINE-IN, TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY: SUN–THU: 11:30AM–9PM FRI–SAT: 11:30AM–10PM Delivery through:

PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNY OLD WESTBURY OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS

Clay portraits and masks created by clients of ACLD on display in the SUNY SEJI Art Lab.

GUIDE TO THE

A Blank Slate Media Special Section • December 15, 2023

PAGE 18 • 24 GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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ade-for-TV movies often depict holiday shopping in the best possible light. The story’s protagonist wanders into the town center and easily finds everything on his or her list at a series of perfectly decorated local boutiques that have nary a shopper in sight. Hot chocolate or mulled cider and repartee also tends to be par for the television movie course. People in the real world understand that holiday shopping doesn’t always work so smoothly. Certainly shopping local is a great way to avoid the crowds and introduce shoppers to more unique gift options, but it’s impossible to remove every obstacle in holiday shopping — particularly getting stumped over shopping for that particularly difficult person on your list. The holly jolly nature of the season can be eclipsed when a person doesn’t know where to begin when shopping for those people who seem to have it all.

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The following ideas can help shoppers who are stuck on what to buy for that loved one who already has it all. • Consider experiences. A recent Harris Group study found 72 percent of millennials prefer to spend money on experiences rather than things. If the person on your shopping list has just about every material possession one can imagine, giving unique experiences might be the way to go. The National Retail Federation confirms the shift in attitude, noting consumers across all age groups now spend more on experiences than they did in years past. • Consolidate memories. Technology continues to evolve,

which means that the way music, videos and photos are captured and stored is always changing. Unless a person has older gear, it’s no longer possible to watch a VHS tape featuring a family member’s graduation ceremony or reprint photographs that are on film negatives. However, shoppers can work with a company that will transfer media onto a new format, such as a thumb drive or in a cloudbased account. This can be a heartfelt gift for someone who wants to reminisce. • Food or beverage subscription. Everyone needs to eat (and drink), so there is always a need for tasty offerings. Introduce loved ones to new foods with various subscriptions. If a person is missing flavors from a home country, have delicacies shipped so the recipient can enjoy a taste of their childhood. • Make a family cookbook. Enlist the help of other family members and compile beloved family recipes. Utilize a cookbook publishing service to compile all of these recipes together. Then gift recipients can revisit their favorites time and again. • Trace family lineage. If the gift recipient is a history buff or is interested in his or her family tree, then a membership to an ancestry service could be an ideal gift. Individuals can spend hours uncovering distant relations and studying their family history in the process. Holiday shopping can be challenging when looking for gifts for people who seemingly have it all. A few outside-the-box ideas can make it easier to overcome that challenge.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023 • GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS

26 GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

Fun books to read to children this holiday season • “The Polar Express,” by Chris Van Allsburg: The beloved tale is the story of a young boy who boards a mysterious train bound for the North Pole.

this tale starring a young boy’s favorite stuffed animal, whose excitement for Christmas compels him to climb into Santa’s big bag of presents on Christmas Eve.

• “The Littlest Elf,” by Brandi Dougherty: Part of a series, this story focuses on a tiny elf named Oliver and a series of misadventures as he navigates his way through Santa’s workshop.

• “Santa Claus and the Three Bears,” by Maria Modugno: This twist on the popular tale “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” finds three unsuspecting bears encountering a familiar fellow in a red suit upon returning home after a nighttime walk.

• “Olive, the Other Reindeer,” by Vivian Walsh: Olive is no ordinary reindeer. In fact, Olive is a dog who heads to the North Pole believing she is a reindeer. Her decision to join Santa’s team ultimately benefits the big man and his trusty reindeer.

he holiday season is a special time of year for people of all ages, but children might be the most enthusiastic celebrants come December. Children spend much of the holiday season anticipating the arrival of the man in the red suit, and that enthusiasm can be contagious. Families have their own unique traditions during the holiday season, but one popular way to harness kids’ enthusiasm between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day is to read them holiday stories. There’s no shortage of great holiday books for kids, and here are a handful that kids may remember well into adulthood.

• “The Miracle of the First Poinsettia: A Mexican Christmas Story,” by Joanne Oppenheim: A little girl named Juanita is the star of this retelling of a traditional Mexican tale with a valuable lesson. • “Gingerbread Mouse: A Christmas Holiday Book for Kids,” by Katy Bratun: A fallen tree branch almost ruins Christmas for Mouse, whose determination and resourcefulness mixed in with a little Christmas magic ensures she finds a place to call home in time for the holidays. • “A Night in Santa’s Great Big Bag,” by Kristin Kladstrup: Santa saves the day in

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• “Twas the Night Before Christmas: Edited by Santa Claus for the Benefit of Children of the 21st Century,” by Clement C. Moore: Parents will appreciate this updated version of the popular tale that, among other things, has removed the reference to Santa smoking. • “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss: Children can join generations of fans that came before them as they hear the redemption story of the Grinch who was once determined to ruin Christmas for the happy people of Who-ville. • “The Nutcracker,” by the New York City Ballet: The classic story is retold based on famed choreographer George Balanchine’s production. The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Reading new and classic holiday stories to children is one tradition any family can embrace.

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28 GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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he holiday season is synonymous with giving. Families engage in gift-giving come the holiday season to show their loved ones how much they appreciate them. Such sentiments are thoughtful and can have a big impact when shoppers find the perfect gift. The perfect gift can be elusive. No one wants to give a gift that won’t end up being used, and some people on shoppers’ lists may prove more difficult to shop for than others. That might be the case with busy professionals who are seemingly always working. This holiday season, shoppers can consider these four unique gift ideas for loved ones climbing their way up the corporate ladder. 1. Luggage Business travel took a hit during the pandemic, and a spring 2023 report from the research firm Morning Consult predicted that it may never return to what was considered normal prior to the pandemic. However, the report indicated that the average business traveler is now younger and earning less than the average business traveler before the pandemic. That makes luggage an ideal gift for the up-and-coming professional who may be traveling more and could benefit from some stylish, sturdy and durable luggage. 2. Fountain pen Few small items exude a greater sense of sophistication and success than a high-end, engraved fountain pen. Established professionals will appreciate the sleek and impressive appearance of a hand-crafted,

customized fountain pen, which can be used to pen memos or sign important documents in style. 3. Temperature-controlled smart mug Caffeine is the secret behind many a professional’s success. A temperature-controlled smart mug can ensure your favorite corporate executive’s coffee maintains its ideal temperature no matter how hectic the day becomes. 4. Yoga sessions Stress is part of the job for many successful professionals. In fact, the American Institute of Stress reports that 94 percent of workers report having chronic stress at work. The competitive nature of the corporate world may not afford many opportunities to decompress during the workday, but the National Institutes of Health reports that yoga can play an effective role in reducing stress and anxiety. Some yoga sessions, which can be purchased from a local yoga studio or even through an app users can access on their smart TVs, can be just what successful executives need to unwind in a healthy way after a long day at the office. Successful professionals have a lot on their plate. A gift that can make their workdays better is sure to be a hit this holiday season.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023 • GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS

The beneﬁts of shopping local during the holiday season

illions of people enjoy shopping for gifts and loved ones each holiday season. The spirit of giving is alive and well each December, and that can extend to giving back to one’s own community. In addition to supporting local charities when making donations during the holiday season, shoppers can patronize small local businesses over big box retailers and national chains. The decision to do so can benefit communities in myriad ways. • Small businesses inspire young entrepreneurs. The United States Department of Commerce reports that nearly half of all small business owners in the U.S. in 2018 were 54 or younger. Six percent of those owners were 34 and under. Young entrepreneurs at the helm of thriving local businesses provide inspiration to the next generation of innovators. • Thriving small business owners can send a positive message to traditionally underrepresented groups. The National Women’s Business Council Annual Report for 2022 indicated women-owned employer firms increased by nearly 17 percent between 2012 and 2019. Similarly, the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Annual Business Survey found that there were more Hispanic-owned and minority-owned businesses in various sectors than a decade earlier. The success of women- and minority-

HOLIDAY GIFTS shopping for gifts and minority-owned businesses sends a loved ones each holiday positive message to young IN THE NICK OF TIME season. The spirit of giving is alive entrepreneurs and locals who are Save illions of people enjoy

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and well each December, and that part of groups that have traditionally canExpress extend toyour giving back to one’sfor clients, been underrepresented in business.* appreciation own community. That can help to create a more colleagues, and associates with diverse and inclusive Main Street, In addition to supporting gourmet businesslocal gifts they’ll the love. success of which depends Use code NORTH20 charities when making donations Hurry, order now for holiday delivery. heavily on locals’ willingness to Off er valid through during the holiday season, shoppers December 31, 2023. can patronize small local businesses patronize locally-owned businesses.

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owned businesses sends a positive message to young entrepreneurs and locals who are part of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in business. That can help to create a more diverse and inclusive Main Street, the success of which depends heavily on locals’ willingness to patronize locally-owned businesses. • Shopping local supports many small business owners. Family meals and social gatherings with friends and coworkers are a big part of the holiday season, and it’s not uncommon to break bread and share a few drinks during a night on the town. Choosing to gather at a locally owned restaurant or tavern instead of a chain restaurant can have a ripple effect on an assortment of local businesses. Local restaurants often source their ingredients from local farms. A family meal at such a restaurant benefits both the restaurant owner and the hardworking local suppliers of the food that ends up on the plate. Local restaurants also are more likely to list locally produced wines and craft beers on their menus than national chains. That adds to the ripple effect of celebrating the holidays at a locally owned restaurant. A thriving small business sector is vital to a strong local economy. Shoppers can keep that in mind and patronize local businesses during the holiday season.

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Atto An Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday,Gi December 15, 2023 • GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS 31 Gu Vi Auto F i He nhpchamber.org M Think Local, Buy Local Nu For All Your nhpchamber.org Holiday Shopping T i Think Local, Buy Local For All Your Holiday Shopping T i Let’s Keep It In The Neighborhood! V a Shop Our Local Businesses Who Support Our Community Ban Let’s Keep It In The Neighborhood! Home Improvements/Contractors/HVAC/Flooring/Fuel/Interior Design Photography & Video Prod. Chamber/Civic Members Accounting/Financial Planning/Investments Advanced Architectural Grilleworks – (516) 488-0628 Allyson Swidler – (516) 459-2276 Ed Stone Photography – (516) 659-0369 Babu Mukalel,CPA – (347) 281-2933 Atlas Plumbing and Heating – (516)Our 881-5875 Am First Presbyterian Church – (516) 354-5013 Printing/Shipping/Signs Shop Our Local Businesses Who Support Community DJ Dolan Tax Service Inc – (516) 488-7500 Blake Windows, Siding & Roofing – (516) 488-4858 Floral Park Indian Merchants Assoc. |Laffey Real Estate – (516) 263-9624 Arland Printing Co. – (516) 488-3232 Gateway Investments – (516) 240-1753 Budget Blinds – (917) 417-6227 Frank MirandaMembers – (516) 554-4563 Home Improvements/Contractors/HVAC/Flooring/Fuel/Interior Design Photography Chamber/Civic Accounting/Financial Planning/Investments Prod. Dezant Signs&&Video Printing – (516) 771-9241 Be Hunt CPA pc – (516) 761-1684 CDS Mestel Construction Corp. – (516) 739-1865 Geoffrey A. Brunkhorst – (516) 695-0181 Advanced Architectural Grilleworks – (516) 488-0628 Allyson Swidler – (516) 459-2276 Ed Stone Photography – (516) –659-0369 Minuteman Press of Bellerose (718) 343-5440 Babu Mukalel,CPA – (347) 281-2933 Champion Elevator Corp. – (212) 292-4430 Joseph Serra CPA – (516) 326-2993 Ginny Amadi – (516) 376-5858 Atlas Plumbing and Heating – (516) 881-5875 First Presbyterian Church – (516) 354-5013 Printing/Shipping/Signs Plaza Graphic Associates, Inc. – (516) 739-3500 DJ Dolan Tax Service Inc – (516) 488-7500 Color Stores,Siding Inc. – &(516) 352-9200 Kiwanis Beach – (516) 996-2569 BlakeAge Windows, Roofing – (516) 488-4858 Ci Floral ParkLong Indian Merchants Assoc. |Laffey Real Estate – (516) 263-9624 NASA Accounting Services Inc. – (516) 492-3455 Arland Co. – (516) The UPSPrinting Store (Garden City 488-3232 Park) – (516) 248-7888 Gateway Investments – (516) 240-1753 Crown Systems – (929) 420-8924 Lakeville Estates– Civic BudgetElectronic Blinds – (917) 417-6227 Frank Miranda (516)Association 554-4563 of NHP – (516) 528-4997 Dezant Printing (516) –771-9241 National Financial Planning – (718) 347-4913 The UPSSigns Store&(New Hyde– Park) (516) 502-2635 Hunt CPA pc – (516) 761-1684 Elegantize – (347) Lisa Miranda – (516) 241-7624 CDS MestelProductions Construction Corp.686-4892 – (516) 739-1865 Geoffrey A. Brunkhorst – (516) 695-0181 Minuteman Real Estate Press of Bellerose – (718) 343-5440 New York Life Insurance Co (Richard Basulto) – (305) 742-3042 Cr Emergency Fire Services Champion Elevator Corp. –– (718) (212) 326-2909 292-4430 Long Joseph Serra CPA – (516) 326-2993 GinnyIsland AmadiChinese – (516)Business 376-5858Owners Assoc – (770) 891-6776 Plaza Graphic Associates, – (516)Laffey 739-3500 Berkshire Hathaway HomeInc. Services Int’l – (516) 858-2722 Principal Securities – (516) 662-9716 Erin Development Co., Inc – (516) 616-4610 ColorConstruction Age Stores, &Inc. – (516) 352-9200 Lynn Schaefering – (516) 761-3041 Kiwanis Long Beach – (516) 996-2569 NASA Accounting Services Inc. – (516) 492-3455 The UPSFrancisco Store (Garden City Park) – (516) 248-7888 Connie Real Estate Group – (516) 328-0668 Fascilla Masonry –Systems (516) 543-0609 Rocco J. Orlando, CFP – (516) 352-5043 Crown Electronic – (929) 420-8924 NassauCnty Leg., Presiding Officer Rich Nicolello – (516) 571-6209 Lakeville Estates Civic Association of NHP – (516) 528-4997 Di National Financial Planning – (718) 347-4913 The UPS (New Hyde Park) – (516) 502-2635 David LauStore – Keller Williams Greater Nassau – (347) 683-7563 Go West Electric Inc. – (516) 865-2464 Elegantize Productions – (347) 686-4892 Retired Financial Services – (516) 698-2202 Lisa Miranda – (516) 241-7624 Rosenblatt, Levittan, Vulpis, Goetz & Co. – (516) 326-8282 Real EstateElliman | Chistopher Bacchus – (516) 746-0440 Douglas New York Life Insurance Co (Richard Basulto) – (305) 742-3042 Halls Carpet,Fire Inc.Services – (516) 488-8268 Emergency – (718) 326-2909 Richard Pallisco – (516) 526-5054 Long Island Chinese Business Owners Assoc – (770) 891-6776 Trachtenberg & Pauker, LLP – (516) 496-7100 Berkshire Services Laffey Int’l – (516) 858-2722 ERA CaputoHathaway Realty – Home (516) 437-0333 Principal Securities – (516) 662-9716 Jasco Window & Door – (516) 354-5772 Erin Construction & Development Co., Inc – (516) Ex 616-4610 The Dads Club of NHP – (516) 488-9500 Lynn Schaefering – (516) 761-3041 Advertising/Market & PR/Newspapers/Promotional Advertising Connie Francisco Estate Group – (516) 328-0668 eXp Realty – (516)Real 902-6311 McNulty Outdoors–Inc. – (516) 352-1550 Fascilla Masonry (516) 543-0609 Rocco J. Orlando, CFP – (516) 352-5043 Trinity Lutheran – (917) 915-8612 NassauCnty Leg.,Church Presiding Officer Rich Nicolello – (516) 571-6209 DavidRealty Lau ––Keller Greater Nassau – (347) 683-7563 Anton Media Group – (516) 403-5182 Fave (516)Williams 519-8049 Millennium Class Inc. Carpet – (516) 488-1818 Go West Electric – (516) 865-2464 Community Organizations Retired Financial Services – (516) 698-2202 F i Rosenblatt, Levittan, Vulpis, Goetz & Co. – (516) 326-8282 DouglasCity Elliman ChistopherLLC Bacchus – (516) 746-0440 Garden Park |Associates, – (516) 932-9800 Nuzzi Fuel Company – (516) 354-2258 Crown Trophy – (516) 775-5755 Halls Carpet, Inc. – (516) 488-8268 Academy of Finance – NHP Memorial H.S. – (516) 488-9503 Richard Pallisco – (516) 526-5054 Trachtenberg & Pauker, LLP – (516) 496-7100 ERA Caputo Realty – (516) 437-0333 Precision Master Inc – (917) 373-2812 Integrity Core Realty – (917) 848-1246 Jasco Window & Door – (516) 354-5772 Cellini LodgeClub #2206/Order Italy in America – (516) 851-9399 Garden City New York Media – (516) 730-3443 The Dads of NHP – Sons (516)of488-9500 Advertising/Market & PR/Newspapers/Promotional Advertising Fl eXp Realty – (516) Precision Painters –Inc. (718) 223-0918 Keller Williams Gold902-6311 Coast (Biji Thomas) – (516) 581-6280 McNulty Outdoors – (516) 352-1550 Colette Memorial Fd. dba CCMAC – (516) 352-4227 Trinity Coyne Lutheran ChurchMelanoma – (917) 915-8612 Market Place Publications – (516) 997-7909 Anton Media Group – (516) 403-5182 Sherwin-Williams – (516)–326-4305 Fave Realty – (516) Millennium Class Carpet (516) 488-1818 Keller Williams Points519-8049 North (Jennifer Cutler) – (516) 427-8152 Family and Children Assn – (516) 358-7031 Community Organizations NHP Herald Courier – (516) 307-1045 T.F. O’Brien & Co., Inc.––(516) (516)354-2258 488-1800 GardenReal CityEstate Park Associates, LLCPark – (516) 932-9800 Nuzzi Fuel Company Laffey of New Hyde – (516) 328-3233 Crown Trophy – (516) 775-5755 Garden CityofPark Civics WestMemorial End – (516) Academy Finance – NHP H.S.287-0187 – (516) 488-9503 Jo Olympia Promotions – (516) 775-4500 Tela Contracting (800)373-2812 244-TELA Precision MasterCorp. Inc ––(917) Integrity Core Shopping Realty – (917) 848-1246 Lake Success Center – (718) 343-1417 Herricks Community FundSons – (516) 742-1926 Cellini Lodge #2206/Order of Italy in America – (516) 851-9399 Garden City New York Media – (516) 730-3443 Tile & Decor, Inc – (516) 408-5254 Attorneys Precision Painters – (718) 223-0918 Keller Williams Gold Coast (Biji Thomas) – (516) 581-6280 New Hyde ParkMemorial Elks Lodge No. 2107 – (516) 352-6620 Peter H. Benson Inc. – (516) 437-3353 Colette Coyne Melanoma Fd. dba CCMAC – (516) 352-4227 Market Place Publications – (516) 997-7909 JP Insurance Sherwin-Williams – (516) 326-4305 Keller Williams Points LLC North– (516) (Jennifer Cutler) – (516) 427-8152 Anthony A. Ferrante, Attorney at Law – (646) 450-4110 New Hyde Park Fire Department –358-7031 (516) 437-5541 The Right Bob Realty, 500-2872 Family and Children Assn – (516) NHP Herald Courier – (516) 307-1045 Agape Trinity&Insurance Inc – (516) 778-9397 T.F. O’Brien Co., Inc. –Agency (516) 488-1800 Laffey Real Estate of New Hyde Park – (516) 328-3233 New Hyde Columbus – (516) 270-5938 Garden CityPark ParkKnights Civics of West End – (516) 287-0187 Retail Giuffre Law Offices, P.C. – (516) 358-5300 Olympia Promotions – (516) 775-4500 Browne InsuranceCorp. Agency – (516) 488-4000 Tela Contracting – (800) 244-TELA New HydeCommunity Park Lions Fund Club – (516) 547-5271 Lake Success– Shopping Center – (718) 343-1417 Herricks 742-1926 Bedquarters (516) 739-2337 M Gutman, Mintz, Baker, Sonnenfeldt P.C. – (516) 775-7007 Colonial Voluntary Benefit – (516) 514-9115 Tile & Decor, Inc – (516) 408-5254 Attorneys New – (516) 515-1721 New Hyde Hyde Park Park Museum Elks Lodge No. 2107 – (516) 352-6620 Peter H. Benson Inc. –– (516) (516) 408-9777 437-3353 Benecare Pharmacy Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP – (516) 437-4385 GEICO Local Office of New Hyde Park – (516) 302-2130 Insurance Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro – (516) 775-5683 Anthony A. Ferrante, Attorney at Law – (646) 450-4110 New Hyde Park Fire Department – (516) 437-5541 The Right Religious Bob Realty, LLC –Inc. (516) 500-2872 Chiarelli’s Goods – (516) 233-2994 John Perrone State Farm Agency – (516) 502-0540 M Automotive Agape Trinity Insurance Agency Inc – (516) 778-9397 Stewart Manor-New Hyde Park GOP Committee – (516) 354-5429 New Hyde Park Knights of Columbus – (516) 270-5938 Retail Giuffre Law Offices, P.C. – (516) 358-5300 City Line Florist – (516) 354-9037 Keats Insurance Agencies – (516) 354-4849 Browne Insurance Agency – (516) 488-4000 Five Corners Auto Salon – (516) 328-6111 The Katie McBride Foundation – (516) 250-2824 New Hyde Park Lions Club – (516) 547-5271 Bedquarters – (516) Eagle Nurseries Inc. –739-2337 (516) 354-2810 Gutman, Mintz, Baker, Sonnenfeldt P.C. – (516) 775-7007 New YorkVoluntary Life Insurance Company O’Brien) – (516) 354-5880 Colonial Benefit – (516)(Bianca 514-9115 Veterans Foreign Wars Post 120515-1721 – (516) 354-1136 New HydeofPark Museum – (516) Hempstead Ford Lincoln – (516) 483-7200 BenecareCompounding Pharmacy – (516) 408-9777 HatchRx Pharmacy – (516) 387-0155 New York Life Office Insurance Company –Ri (516) 316-9708 Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP – (516) 437-4385 GEICO Local of New Hyde (Daniel Park – Stravino) (516) 302-2130 Village of New Hyde Park Clerk – (516) 354-0022 Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro – (516) 775-5683 Chiarelli’sJewelers Religious– Goods Inc. – (516) 233-2994 Mukti77 Petroleum Inc – (718) 347-3400 Herricks (516) 742-4590 New Life Insurance (Krishna Sinha)502-0540 – (516) 343-6977 JohnYork Perrone State FarmCoAgency – (516) Automotive Custom Apparel Stewart Manor-New Hyde Park GOP Committee – (516) 354-5429 City LineMusic Florist––(516) (516)352-4070 354-9037 Laconia Nuzzi Bros. Auto Collision – (516) 354-1100 New Life Insurance 804-4861 KeatsYork Insurance AgenciesCo–(Mark (516) Papagni) 354-4849– (516)R o Constantly Create Shop – (718)–406-5969 Five Corners Auto Salon – (516) 328-6111 The Katie McBride Foundation (516) 250-2824 Eagle Ramo Nurseries Inc. –– (516) Mario Couture (516) 354-2810 326-1010 Rossiter Agency – (516)(Bianca 318-2711 New YorkInsurance Life Insurance Company O’Brien) – (516) 354-5880 Tint World (Veteran Owned Business) – (516) 402-3031 Dance Studio Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 120 – (516) 354-1136 Hempstead Ford Lincoln – (516) 483-7200 HatchRx Compounding Pharmacy – (516) 387-0155 Milena’s Garden Center, Inc. – (516) 616-5165 SMS Insurance Group – (516) 647-5496 New York Life Insurance Company (Daniel Stravino) – (516) 316-9708 Tip Top Auto Body Inc – (516) 746-6663 Classical of Ballet – (516) 476-3339 Village ofSchool New Hyde Park LIClerk – (516) 354-0022 V a Mukti77 Petroleum Inc – (718) 347-3400 Herricks Jewelers –– (516) State FarmLife Insurance – Peter Mathison Agency – (516) 354-4949 Mr. Jay Appliances (914) 742-4590 898-9077 New York Insurance Co E. (Krishna Sinha) – (516) 343-6977 Day CareApparel Custom Van Buren Buick Pontiac GMC – (516) 741-5060 Music – (516) 352-4070 Topline Allstate Agency – Co (516) 328-9700 Nuzzi Bros. Auto Collision – (516) 354-1100 P.Laconia C. Richard & Son – (516) 488-0400 New York Life Insurance (Mark Papagni) – (516) 804-4861 Harbor Child Care – (516) 248-9855 Constantly Create Shop – (718) 406-5969 Banking Services Library Mario Ramo Couture – (516) 326-1010 Rossiter Insurance Agency – (516) 318-2711 Pharmaconic – (516) 502-4170 Tint World (Veteran Owned Business) – (516) 402-3031 Bea KiddieStudio Academy of Floral Park – (516) 269-1533 Dance American Community Bank – (516) 502-6611 Hillside Public Library Milena’s Inc. – (516) 616-5165 SMS Insurance Group –– (516) (516) 355-7850 647-5496 The PaperGarden Store –Center, (516) 727-7801 Tip Top Auto Body Inc – (516) 746-6663 Tutor TimeSchool Child Care NewLIHyde Park476-3339 – (516) 326-8236 Classical of Ballet – (516) Locksmith State Farm Insurance – Peter E. Mathison Agency – (516) 354-4949 Restaurants/Deli/Food/Bakeries Mr. Jay Appliances – (914) 898-9077 Bethpage Federal Credit Union – (800) 628-7070 Educational Day Care Services Van Buren Buick Pontiac GMC – (516) 741-5060 Be Able Lock Shop Agency Inc – (516) 352-8316 Topline Allstate – (516) 328-9700 P. C.TACO Richard & Son373-2340 – (516) 488-0400 AVO – (516) Citizens Bank – (917) 215-9437 Huntington Center248-9855 of Carle Place – (516) 742-4559 Harbor ChildLearning Care – (516) Banking Services Precision Lock & Safe Inc. – (516) 616-0854 Pharmaconic – (516) 502-4170 Bagels-N-A-Hole Lot More – (516) 416-4620 The Emma, Alyson of andFloral Kate Park Hance–Family Foundation – (516) 424-8960 Library CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC – (516) 456-5365 Kiddie Academy (516) 269-1533 Medical/Doctors/Audiology/Dental/Elder Health American Community Bank – (516) 502-6611 Hillside Public Library – (516) 355-7850 Care/Mental The Paper Store – (516) 727-7801 M Bango Bowls – (347) 548-0901 Entertainment Tutor Time Child Care New Hyde Park – (516) 326-8236 Dime Community Bank – (516) 739-3701 516 Chiropractic PC – (516) 747-0078 Locksmith Bethpage Federal Credit Union – (800) 628-7070 Restaurants/Deli/Food/Bakeries Brew House – (516) 502-6740 Iceland Skating Rink, Inc. – (516) 746-1100 Educational Services Expanse FT – (516) 455-2940 Academic LI – (516) 352-2445 Able Lock Prosthodontics Shop Inc – (516)Of352-8316 AVO TACO –Italian (516) Eatery 373-2340 Citizens Bank – (917) 215-9437 Cassariano – (516) 280-8990 PFM Production – (516) 410-8237 Huntington Learning Center of Carle Place – (516) 742-4559 AgeWell New York – 718-484-5000 ext. 5008 Th Precision Lock & Safe Inc. – (516) 616-0854 First Central Savings Bank – (516) 399-6010 Bagels-N-A-Hole More – (516) Send In TheAlyson Clownsand Entertainment/Event Terminal – –(516) Dominick’s Italian Lot – American Deli –416-4620 (516) 746-2116 The Emma, Kate Hance Family Foundation (516)354-1515 424-8960 CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC – (516) 456-5365 Bila-Cassidy Chiropractic, PLLC – (516) 358-0500 Medical/Doctors/Audiology/Dental/Elder Care/Mental Health Flushing Bank – (516) 488-6400 Bango Bowls – (347) 548-0901 Food Sales/Food & Liquor Wholesalers/Beverage Dos Toros Taqueria – (516) 834-1920 Entertainment Dime Community Bank – (516) 739-3701 Dental Made Easy – (516) 588-6622 516 Chiropractic PC – (516) 747-0078 Brew House Jovia Financial Credit Union –Bus (516) 561-0030 B.S.E. – (516) IcelandMarketing Skating Rink, Inc.694-0300 – (516) 746-1100 Eddie’s Pizza –– (516) (516) 502-6740 354-9780 Dr. ThomasProsthodontics Barbaro (Podiatry) Expanse FT – (516) 455-2940 Academic Of LI––(516) (516)326-7979 352-2445 Beverage Barn ––(516) Cassariano Italian Eatery – (516) 280-8990 PFM Production (516)742-0114 410-8237 Fogo de Chao – (516) 588-7100 JP Morgan Chase – (347) 860-9163 ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP – (516) 775-2800 AgeWell New York – 718-484-5000 ext. 5008 First Central Savings Bank – (516) 399-6010 Duck – (516)Entertainment/Event 400-6919 Send Donuts In The Clowns Terminal – (516) 354-1515 Dominick’s Italian – American Gino’s Trattoria Pizzeria of NewDeli Hyde– (516) Park –746-2116 (516) 488-1366 M & T Bank – (516) 535-2020 Excel Urgent Care – (516) 519-8400 Bila-Cassidy Chiropractic, PLLC – (516) 358-0500Ab Flushing Bank – (516) 488-6400 Hillside Beverage&Company – (718) 347-6220 Food Sales/Food Liquor Wholesalers/Beverage Dos TorosBake Taqueria (516) 834-1920 Gourmet Shop,–Inc. – (516) 354-3930 Long Center – (718) 470-4587 DentalIsland MadeJewish Easy –Medical (516) 588-6622 Maspeth Federal Savings & Loan – (516) 437-5000 Iavarone Bros. – (516) 488-5600 Jovia Financial Credit Union – (516) 561-0030 B.S.E. Marketing – (516) 694-0300 Eddie’s Pizza – (516)Grill 354-9780 Guac Shop Mexican – (516) 274-3380 Medical Practice Management NY LLC – (516) 650-4604 Dr. Thomas Barbaro (Podiatry) –of(516) 326-7979 Ridgewood Savings Bank – (516) 294-9090 Ad JDS Discount & Liquors, Inc. – (516) 502-2400 Beverage BarnWines – (516) 742-0114 Fogo Rolled de ChaoBagels – (516) 588-7100 JP Morgan Chase – (347) 860-9163 Hand – (516) 352-1313 Parker Jewish Institute for Health & Rehab. – (718) 289-2212 ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP Care – (516) 775-2800 Roslyn Savings Bank Div. NY Community Bank – (516) 327-4695 Lake Liquors – (516) 216-5437 DuckSuccess Donuts –Wine (516)and 400-6919 Gino’s Trattoria Pizzeria of New Hyde Park – (516) 488-1366 Hildebrandt’s – (516) 741-0608 Path2Growth Counseling Inc. – (347) 921-0811 M & T Bank – (516) 535-2020 Excel Urgent Care – (516)Services, 519-8400 ONE HOPE Wine – Company (516) 427-8152 Hillside Beverage – (718) 347-6220 Valley Bank – (516) 437-1000 Gourmet Italian Bake Shop, Inc.& –Pizzeria (516) 354-3930 StatMD Urgent Care Medical – (516) 352-7828 Iavarone Kitchen – (516) 488-4500 Al Long Island Jewish Center – (718) 470-4587 Maspeth Federal Savings & Loan – (516) 437-5000 Sansone (516)488-5600 447-3525 Iavarone Market Bros. – –(516) Beauty & Spa/Massage Therapy Guac Shop Restaurant Mexican Grill – (516) 274-3380 Surrogate Family Management Care, LLC – (516) Jonathan’s – (516) 742-7300 Medical Practice of NY806-2223 LLC – (516) 650-4604 Ridgewood Savings Bank – (516) 294-9090 Yorkshire Food Sales Corp. – (516) 328-1400 JDS Discount Wines & Liquors, Inc. – (516) 502-2400 Tideline CenterInstitute for Health Aesthetics (516) 833-1301 Hand Rolled Bagels – (516) 352-1313 Parker Jewish for &Health Care &– Rehab. – (718) 289-2212 KPacho – (516) 358-2222 Beauty Bar LI – (516) 612-6100 Ep Funeral Homes Wine and Liquors – (516) 216-5437 Roslyn Savings Bank Div. NY Community Bank – (516) 327-4695 Lake Success Tucker Group Practice – (929) 459-2844 Hildebrandt’s – (516) 741-0608 Path2Growth Counseling Services, Inc. – (347) 921-0811 Mama Theresa’s Pizzeria and Restaurant – (516) 747-3111 Massage Envy Spa – (516) 673-4278 New Hyde Park Funeral Home – (516) 352-8989 ONE HOPE Wine – (516) 427-8152 Valley Bank – (516) 437-1000 Williston Park Eye Associates – (516) 747-4011 StatMD Urgent Care – (516) 352-7828 Iavarone Kitchen & Pizzeria ––(516) New HydeItalian Park Diner & Restaurant (516)488-4500 354-2022 The Laser Place – (347) 512-7534 Park Funeral Chapels – (516) 747-4300 Sansone Market – (516) 447-3525 Zen Ohs Acupuncture (516)– 557-6112 Beauty & Spa/Massage Therapy Surrogate Family Care,– LLC (516) 806-2223 Ne Jonathan’s Restaurant – (516) 742-7300 Omega Diner – (516) 354-4666 Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Homes – (516) 354-0634 Yorkshire Food Sales Corp. – (516) 328-1400 Business Services & Consulting/Computer/Web Design Moving & Storage Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics – (516) 833-1301 KPacho – (516) 358-2222 Beauty Bar LI – (516) 612-6100 Orient Garden – (516) 809-8216 Health Fitness/Health Coach Funeral&Homes All The Right Moving & Storage – (516) 354-6683 Ability Fire and Life Safety Consultants Inc. – (516) 322-2779 Tucker GroupMoves, PracticeLtd. – (929) 459-2844 Mama Theresa’s Pizzeria and–Restaurant – (516) 747-3111 Park Place Restaurant & Bar (516) 775-9004 Massage Envy Spa – (516) 673-4278 Club NewFuneral Hyde Park – (516) 654-6938 NS New Pilates Hyde Park Home – (516) 352-8989 Moving Moving & Storage – (516) 746-0404 WillistonAhead Park Eye Associates – (516) 747-4011 Adobe – (408) 753-5826 New Hyde ParkPark Diner & Restaurant – (516) 354-2022 Plattduetsche Restaurant – (516) 354-3131 The Laser Place – (347) 512-7534 InPark Motion Coach – (516) 424-6289 Funeral Chapels – (516) 747-4300 Pest Control Zen Ohs Acupuncture – (516) 557-6112 All About The Bookkeeping – (516) 234-6850 OmegaBakery Diner –– (516) (516) 248-6618 354-4666 Polito Lagreeny (516) 809-8258 Thomas F.–Dalton Funeral Homes – (516) 354-0634 Business Services & Consulting/Computer/Web Design Fox Pest Control Long Island – (631) 458-5003 Pi Moving & Storage Orient Pizza Garden – (516)Dining 809-8216 Previti Papazzio – (516) 354-2354 Epsg – (646) 210-6793 New Hyde Park-MineolaCoach Runners Club – (347) 603-6883 Health & Fitness/Health Parkway Pest Moves, ServicesLtd. – (516) 328-2989 All The Right Moving & Storage – (516) 354-6683 Ability Fire and Life Safety Consultants Inc. – (516) 322-2779 ParkInn Place Restaurant & Bar – (516) 775-9004 The at New Hyde Park – (516) 354-7797 Orangetheory Fitness City Park – (516) 564-2000 Network Outsource – (516) 488-5888 Club Pilates New Hyde| Garden Park – (516) 654-6938 PetMoving Services Ahead Moving & Storage – (516) 746-0404 Adobe – (408) 753-5826 Plattduetsche Park Restaurant (516)437-7698 354-3131 Umberto’s Restaurant & Pizza ––(516) Orangetheory Fitness | New Hyde Park – (516) 858-5600 Pr In Motion Coach – (516) 424-6289 Garden City Park Animal Hospital – (516) 742-3377 NSOS Inc. dba North Shore Office Supplies – (516) 724-7352 Pest Control All About The Bookkeeping – (516) 234-6850 Polito Bacala’s Bakery ––(516) Uncle (516)248-6618 739-0505 Push Fitness Club 809-8258 – (516) 326-7867 Lagreeny – (516) Luxury Spa – Long (516)Island 233-2640 Fox PestPetControl – (631) 458-5003 Pinpoint Computer Services – (718) 279-2222 Previti Pizza Papazzio – (516) 354-2354 Epsg – (646) 210-6793 Rosanne CHHC Holistic (516) 328-2367 Your Mothers House – Dining (516) 493-9030 New HydeSpinner, Park-Mineola RunnersHealth Club –Coach (347) –603-6883 New HydePest ParkServices Animal Hospital – (516) 352-7007US Parkway – (516) 328-2989 Professional CFO Inc. – (516) 492-1447 The Inn Gyro at New Hyde739-7600 Park – (516) 354-7797 Saf-T-Swim Orangetheory– (516) Fitness519-8787 | Garden City Park – (516) 564-2000 Yummy – (516) Network Outsource – (516) 488-5888 Barn Dog Holdings, LLC (Dogtopia) – (516) 703-1200 PetRed Services US Globe Service Corp – (516) 775-7677 StretchLab – (516) 216-9880 Umberto’s Orangetheory Fitness | New Hyde Park – (516) 858-5600 Travel AgencyRestaurant & Pizza – (516) 437-7698 The Cat City Doctor Veterinary Hospital–PC – (516) 877-2287 Garden Park Animal Hospital (516) 742-3377 NSOS Inc. dba North Shore Office Supplies – (516) 724-7352 UFC – (516) ZenBusiness – (512) 765-4985 Uncle Bacala’s – (516)Inc. 739-0505 PushGYM Fitness Club784-4072 – (516) 326-7867 Ze The LeftPet PawSpa Puppies (516) 305-4220 Traveling With Donna – (516) 455-4940 Luxury – (516)– 233-2640 Pinpoint Computer Services – (718) 279-2222 Rosanne Spinner, CHHC Holistic Health Coach – (516) 328-2367 Your Mothers House – (516) 493-9030

Season’s Greetings! Season’s Greetings!

Professional CFO Inc. – (516) 492-1447 US Globe Service Corp – (516) 775-7677 ZenBusiness – (512) 765-4985

Saf-T-Swim – (516) 519-8787 StretchLab – (516) 216-9880 UFC GYM – (516) 784-4072

New Hyde Park Animal Hospital – (516) 352-7007

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he natural world is a wonder to behold, with awe-inspiring vistas and wildlife. Spending time in nature has been studied and reported on by a number of medical professionals. The general takeaway is that enjoying time in the great outdoors has been linked to everything from improved mood to reduced risk of disease. Just a little bit of time in fresh air and sunlight can improve well-being by a significant margin, which is perhaps why nature has inspired so many devotees. If there is a nature lover in your family, use that interest as inspiration when holiday shopping this year. Here are some naturerelated gift ideas. • Binoculars: Bird watchers or other animal observers understand that wild animals can become skittish around people. It’s best to view them from afar, and a good set of binoculars makes it easier to do so. • Mounted camera: When the GoPro camera came on the scene many years ago, it revolutionized the way amateur filmmakers could document their adventures. The GoPro and its model evolutions continue to enable people to capture photos and videos both on land and underwater. With a head-mounting strap and some additional accessories, adventurers will be unencumbered by the camera. Similar mounting devices may be available for Android- and Applebased phones and cameras as well. • Waterproof hiking boots/shoes: Taking the road less traveled often means going on foot. Trailblazing is made easier with

durable, waterproof footwear that can go from the trail to the mountainside more readily. • Motion-capture trail camera: Another way to watch wildlife is to do so from a motion-capture trail camera that can be set up by a nesting area or along a path frequented by local wildlife. • First aid kit: It’s always important to keep safety in mind when enjoying nature. A well-stocked first aid kit is a great way to give the gift of good health and safety. • Camping gear: When sleeping out under the stars or at a campsite, a tent, ground cover, sleeping bag, backpack, camp stove, and other gear can make the experience all the better. Nature lovers can enjoy their passions even more thoroughly with gifts that cater to their love of the great outdoors.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023 • GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS

What shoppers can do to avoid breaking the bank this holiday season

illions of individuals enjoy holiday shopping for their loved ones each year. Come the holiday season, thoughts of what to get friends and family is foremost on the minds of those who embrace the spirit of giving that is synonymous with this special time of year. It’s easy to overspend come the holiday shopping season. That could be even easier in an era marked by high inflation, which has affected consumers since 2022. Lingering inflation could require shoppers to be especially vigilant with their shopping budgets this holiday season. Thankfully, a few simple strategies can help shoppers stay the financial course this holiday season. • Track spending with a banking app on your smartphone. Consumers can now track their spending in real time by downloading their bank and/or credit card app on their smartphones. A quick login can help shoppers monitor account balances to determine how much they have spent. If the budget is about to be busted, pull back the reins and cut the shopping trip short.

consumers can take advantage of • Establish gift value limits. No one additional discount-heavy shopping has been immune to the effects of days like Small Business Saturday inﬂation over the last year-plus. So and Cyber Monday to find great family members likely won’t have a deals on a wide range of items. Take problem establishing spending limits this year. Work together with relatives retail holiday savings one step to determine a reasonable limit to spend further by penciling in time to comparison shop on these popular days when retailers compete for customers.

on each gift. For example, a $50 per gift limit can ensure everyone gets a quality gift without going into debt. • Look for almost-new gifts. Mobile providers may market the latest model smartphone as upping the ante with new bells and whistles, but chances are last year’s model is just as user-friendly at a fraction of the cost. The same can be said for other gadgets like wireless headphones and smart TVs. Last year’s models may be heavily discounted, particularly online, but just as impressive as their more expensive successors. • Keep shipping costs in mind. The sticker price of certain items, particularly large ones, is likely not the whole story regarding how much the item will cost. Certain items, like trampolines for kids or a new armchair for Dad, will likely cost considerably more than the sticker price alone. Shipping on small items may be free at various online retailers, but that likely won’t be the case with larger items. The cost of shipping some heavy items might be as much as one-third the cost of the item itself. Shoppers should keep that in mind and build potential shipping costs into their holiday budgets. It’s easy to overspend come the holiday season. However, various strategies make it easy to stay within budget when shopping for gifts for family and friends.

• Look for almost-new gifts. Wishes To All For A Healthy Happy Holiday Season Mobile providers may market the latest model smartphone as upping the ante with new bells and whistles, but chances are last year’s model is just as user-friendly at a fraction of the cost. The same can be said for other gadgets like wireless headphones and smart TVs. Last year’s models may be heavily discounted, particularly online, but just as impressive as their more expensive successors.

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eniors and older adults did not seem to get the memo regarding inflation. As the world continues to navigate a costof-living increase, internal data from Bank of America indicates that Baby Boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) and Traditionalists (individuals born between 1928 and 1945) are spending more while younger generations are cutting back. Between May 2021 and May 2022, spending by Traditionalists increased by more than 5 percent while Baby Boomer spending rose by 2.2 percent. That uptick occurred while younger generations’ spending fell by 1.5 percent.

• Travel gifts: The 2023 AARP Travel Trends survey found that 85 percent of older travelers rank travel in their top three priorities for discretionary spending. The appeal of travel has not worn off for modern seniors, and shoppers can keep that in mind this holiday season. New luggage, travel miles earned through a credit card, unique experiences at senior travelers’ next destination, air tags that can keep track of luggage, and a world travel adapter that can convert plugs in any country across the globe are just a few of the many travel gifts shoppers can give on-the-go seniors this December.

Seniors seem to be on the go, and that’s something holiday shoppers can keep in mind as they look for gifts for their aging parents, grandparents and others. With that in mind, shoppers can consider these gifts that align well with the lifestyles of seniors who are out and about and making the most of their free time.

• Exercise gear: The National Council on Aging notes that adults who exercise after turning 65 continue to reap the same rewards that improve quality of life among younger men and women. In addition to boosting immunity, exercising after 65 continues to improve mood so long as seniors stay the course. Exercise gear, including attire and appropriate footwear, can reduce injury risk and help seniors feel more comfortable while breaking a sweat.

• Golf clubs or additional golf gear: Data from the National Golf Foundation indicated that more than 34 million people in the United States played golf in 2019, and 15 percent of those players were 65 and over. A new set of custom-fit clubs can help seniors take their game to the next level. Such clubs can be expensive, so they make a great tandem gift from children and grandchildren who pool their resources. If new clubs are not necessary or too costly, a single club, such as a new driver or putter, makes for a great gift as well. Gear like a new golf bag, new spikes and new course-friendly attire also makes a great gift for seniors who love the links.

• Spa session: All that activity is good for the body, but so is a little post-activity rest and relaxation. A day at the spa, where seniors can get a massage, take a mental break and address minor aches and pains can be just the thing seniors need to recover in time for their next excursion. Any number of gifts can make this holiday season even more special for modern seniors who continue to get up and go each day.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023 • GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS

Holiday entertaining Holiday entertaining madeeasier easier made

Entertaining season peaks between November Entertaining season peaks between November and January, and January, when friends, coworkers, and even neighbors takeneighbors every whenfamilies, families, friends, coworkers, and even take every opportunity to gather and celebrate the joy of the holiday season. opportunity to gather and celebrate the joy of the holiday season. Individuals who regularly open their homes to company may ﬁnd Individuals regularly open list their homes hosting easier ifwho they have a ready-made of foods and to company may ﬁnd beverages serve their guests. hosting to easier if they have a ready-made list of foods and

reCiPe: Easy Salmon Cakes Serves 4

• 1 pound canned salmon, flaked • 1⁄2 cup gluten-free bread crumbs • 1 egg, beaten • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard beverages serve their guests. Small bites andto finger foods are ideal when hosting a crowd • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish because they allow individuals to pick and choose among several • 1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt Small bites andThese finger foods are ideal when different offerings. “Easy Salmon Cakes” from “The hosting a crowd 1 Complete Diet allow Plan” (Rockridge Press) Amanda RD among several • ⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper becauseIBSthey individuals tobypick andFoote, choose • 1 lemon, quartered, for garnish are perfect by themselves,These or can be servedSalmon on gluten-free (or from “The different offerings. “Easy Cakes” regular) buns. Increase the recipe as necessary for entertaining.

Complete IBS Diet Plan” (Rockridge Press) by Amanda Foote, RD are perfect by themselves, or can be served on gluten-free (or regular) buns. Increase the recipe as necessary for entertaining.

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, mix the salmon and bread crumbs. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, mustard, dill, salt, and pepper. Fold this into the salmon and bread crumbs. 4. Form the salmon mixture into 4 patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet. 5. Bake for 5 minutes, ﬂip, and bake for 5 minutes more, until the patties are golden. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon. Tip: To make this GERD-friendly, omit the black pepper and reduce the mustard to 2 teaspoons.

reCiPe: Easy Salmon Cakes Serves 4

• 1 pound canned salmon, ﬂaked • 1⁄2 cup gluten-free bread crumbs • 1 egg, beaten • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish • 1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt • 1⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 lemon, quartered, for garnish

reCiPe:

Easy Salmon Cakes

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Line a baking Serves 4 sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, mix the salmon and bread crumbs.

3.•In1apound small bowl, whisk together the ﬂaked egg, mustard, dill, salt, and canned salmon, pepper. Fold this into the salmon and bread crumbs. 1

• ⁄2 cup gluten-free bread crumbs

4. Form the salmon mixture into 4 patties •and 1 egg, place beaten them on the prepared baking sheet.

5.•Bake for 5 minutes,Dijon ﬂip, andmustard bake for 5 minutes more, 1 tablespoon until the patties are golden. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon.

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish • 1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt Tip:1To make this GERD-friendly, omit the black pepper ⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • reduce and the mustard to 2 teaspoons. • 1 lemon, quartered, for garnish 1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, mix the salmon and bread crumbs. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, mustard, dill, salt, and

36 GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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ravel tends to heat up as the holiday favorites, not difficultit’s to not difficult t ravel tends to heat up as the holidayit’sfavorites, weather begins to chill find entertainment that showcases weather begins to chill some holiday findspirit. entertainment that showcases around the holiday season. Dance troupes around holiday season. some holiday With friends and the family to see and may be showcasing “The spirit. Dance troupes With friends family may showcasing holiday cheer toand spread, it’s noto see and Nutcracker” or abe choral ensemble “The wonder why millions of people take may be putting on a concert holiday cheer to spread, it’s no Nutcracker” or ofa choral ensemble to the roads, railways and friendly Christmas carols. Enjoy a night or wonder why millions of people take may be putting on a concert of skies to travel during the holiday day out at one of these events. to the roads, railways and friendly Christmas carols. Enjoy a night or season. • Visit a cathedral or temple. The

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Fri 12/15

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Trans-Siberian Or‐ chestra-The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve @ 7:30pm / $29.99$109.75 UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Belmont Park - Long Is‐ land Mary Poppins @ 7:30pm The Argyle Theatre at Babylon Village, 34 W Main St, Babylon

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Brooklyn Nets v. New Circus Vazquez Tribute,” celebrating the York Knicks Queens NY @ 7:30pm / $117-$6750 bestselling duo in @ 7:30pm / $30-$90 Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic rock’n’roll history. Tem‐ Circus Vazquez - Citi Field, George Lamond Live Ave, Brooklyn ple Emanuel of Great 12301 Roosevelt Ave, Flushing @ 8pm ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Neck, 150 Hicks Lane, //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Mulcahy's Pub and Concert Organ Monk Great Neck. missy150@ Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave, Wan‐ @ 8:30pm optimum.net, 516-482tagh Oulala Café and Lounge, 428 5701 //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Super Seniors 525 Bedford Ave, Bell‐ more

Tue 12/19

Sunrise Hwy, Lynbrook @ 11:30am ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Sharing challenges and �nding our collective strength. A six@ 9pm week series. Mid-Island Y JCC, Half Moon Bar & Grill, 22 E Park 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plain‐ Dudley Swing Sessions Ave, Long Beach @ 6:30pm view @ 9pm / $15 //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Mr. Beery's, 4019 Hempstead //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Spotlight at The Paramount, Tpke, Bethpage 370 New York Ave, Huntington Jewish Learning Series

Category3: Shore House Bar & Grill

Sun 12/17 Featured

An Acoustic Evening at Mr. Beery’s w/Graztopia, Katie Carroll, & Frankie Matos

Thu 12/21

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Featured

Join the Mid Island Y JCC and a host of guest presenters for interesting and relevant lec‐ tures and discussions related to Judaism and Jewish Culture. Mid-Island Y JCC, 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview

Fri 12/22 Lovesong The Band: Stage 317

@ 8pm 317 Main Street, 317 Main St, Farmingdale ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Wed 12/20

The Santa 5K @ 9:30am / $10 Eisenhower Park Parking Field 2, 1899 Hempstead Tpke, East Meadow. events@elite feats.com

Andrew Dice Clay @ 8pm / $39.50-$99.50 The Paramount, 370 New York Ave, Hunting‐ ton

Social Singles @ 6:30pm / $12 Join us at the Mid-Island Y JCC for ongoing social program‐ ming for singles ages 55+ to connect with one another.

The best place to promote your events online and in print. Visit us @ https://theisland360.com/local-events/

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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.

40 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

COMMUNITY NEWS

St. Francis earns Leapfrog top marks in safety, quality St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center announced today that it was named a Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group for its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality. The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization that measures the standard of patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center® has received more ‘A’ grades for safety from Leapfrog than any hospital on Long Island since the safety scores first launched in 2012.

To qualify for the distinction, hospitals must rank top among peers on the Leapfrog Hospital Survey, which assesses hospital performance on the highest standards for quality and patient safety and achieve top performance in their category. “We are thrilled that St. Francis has once again been recognized as one of the highest performing hospitals by The Leapfrog Group,” said Dr. Charles Lucore, president, St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center. “In addition to our 22 ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grades from Leapfrog, we are

honored to receive this Top Teaching Hospital recognition for the second year in a row. Every day, we uphold a vigilant focus on quality, consistently working to educate our staff on the best practices in patient safety. This award reflects the diligent dedication of our staff.” The quality of patient care across many areas of hospital performance is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates, practices for safer surgery, maternity care, and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medication errors. More than

2,100 hospitals were considered for the award, and only 132 Top Hospitals were selected. “Protecting patients from preventable harm is the cornerstone of The Leapfrog Group’s mission,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center® has demonstrated that patient safety is their top priority, and we’re truly pleased to recognize them as a Top Hospital this year. Congratulations to hospital staff at all levels who made this national recognition possible.”

Town, Chabad of Manhasset to Sands welcomes host Hanukkah menorah lighting 2K to lighting, acts North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, the Town Board, and the Chabad of Manhasset hosted a Hanukkah Festival on Sunday, Dec. 10 at Town Hall (220 Plandome Road) in Manhasset. The event was held indoors due to the predicted inclement weather. The event, which is sponsored by North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health, featured musical performanc-

es including a performance by the Manhasset High School band, a breakdance performance by Emphasis Entertainment, and the lighting of the menorah. Hanukkah, which runs this year from Thursday, Dec. 7 to Friday, Dec. 15, celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem when it is said that one day’s worth of sacred oil lasted for eight days.

Menorah lighting on Sunday, Dec. 5 at Mary Jane Davies Green in Manhasset

YOUR NEWS ANYTIME ANYWHERE

THEISLAND360.COM

Sands New York welcomed over 2,000 Long Islanders for a “Season of Sparkle” at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on the evening of Monday, Dec. 4. The event featured the live lighting of a 60-foot Christmas Tree alongside a Hanukkah Menorah and a Kwanzaa Kinara to officially usher in the holiday season on Long Island. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Legislator Thomas McKevitt, and Deputy Supervisor and Senior Councilwoman for the Town of Hempstead Dorothy Goosby were on site to help signal the lighting countdown. “This is what Sands is all about,” said Robert Goldstein, chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands. “We believe in making meaningful contributions to the communities we operate in. Public events like this, with high-quality entertainment, are just one of the ways we engage our local communities — and when we open the Sands New York property, we look forward to hosting many more celebrations. We are extremely grateful to have so many our of new neighbors here to join in the fun, and we wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday!” The holiday extravaganza featured performances from America’s Got Talent contestant Sal “The Voice” Valentinetti, American Idol Contestant Christian

Guardino, Uniondale High School show choir, emcee Carl and his Holiday Elves, and Cuban entertainer Osmay Calvo with his 13 Piece Band. Children and families also enjoyed visits from Buddy the Elf, Princess Elsa, the Grinch, a live human Christmas Tree, and of course, Santa himself. “It’s great to see so much of the community turn out for this event. Coming together is exactly what this time of year is all about it and was wonderful to see our very own Uniondale show choir take the stage alongside the other talented acts,” said Mariano Ugalde, President of the Uniondale Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to coming back to enjoy many more Sands New York events here in Nassau County!” All attendees received a free food voucher to turn in at any of 10 different food trucks, with options ranging from poutine to lobster rolls, to waffles and zeppoles. The event also included holiday mini golf, festive 360-degree and holiday-themed photo opportunities, a live ice carving, face painting, and more. The two-day event was kicked off on Sunday, Dec. 3 with a Toys-for-Tots toy drive, in partnership with the United States Marine Corps Reserve. Throughout both days of the event, new, unwrapped toys were collected to donate to economically disadvantaged children on Long Island.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

COMMUNITY NEWS

Study shows Nassau shortchanged by Albany, D.C. Nassau and Suffolk County taxpayers are sending far more money to Albany and Washington than gets returned to Long Island in the form of government spending – a combined deficit of more than $40 billion, according to a Long Island Regional Planning Council report released today. The balance of payments study, commissioned by the LIRPC and conducted by PFM Group Consulting updates a 2013 report performed by the Long Island Association with fiscal year 2022 figures and found that: Long Island sent an approximately $68 billion to the federal government in the form of personal income, business, employment, estate, excise and gift taxes, while federal expenditures (excluding COVID payments) in Nassau and Suffolk were $42 billion – a deficit of nearly $26 billion;New York

State received $24.6 billion in taxes and fees from Long Island while the region received $9.8 billion in expenditures – a deficit of $14.7 billion. “As a high-wealth area, Long Island has long served as an economic engine both for New York State and the federal government,” noted John Cameron, LIRPC chairman. “This report should sound the alarm in Albany and Washington about the need for greater investment into Nassau and Suffolk if they want and expect the region to remain economically vibrant.” The report noted that several changes in the New York tax code since the 2013 study have had a greater impact on wealthy counties such as Nassau and Suffolk than other areas of the state, and that while the 2017 federal tax changes lowered many rates, the $10,000 cap on state and local deductions

remains detrimental for high tax areas such as Long Island. “The Long Island Regional Planning Council has long recognized that the unsustainable tax burden is one of the most significant challenges facing our region,” Cameron said. “We will continue to advocate for greater investment from Albany and from Washington for Long Island’s infrastructure, transportation and sewer needs, along with high tech, STEM careers and local community development.” Other findings include: Compared to 2013, revenues coming from Long Island to Albany increased by 40%, however, expenditures actually decreased by 10%;A $6.6 billion gap between revenues and New York State expenditures in 2013 more than doubled in 2022 – to $14.7 billion;Revenues from Long Island to the Federal

government increased by 29% compared to 2013 while Federal expenditures (excluding COVID relief) increased by 75%;Median household incomes in Nassau and Suffolk counties were 161% higher than the New York State media; and 171% higher than the nationwide median; On the federal level, expenditures include direct payments to individuals (such as Social Security, unemployment, federal pensions), grants (including Medicaid and SNAP), contracts and purchasing, and wages of federal employees. On the state level, expenditures include payment to vendors, Medicaid, wages of state employees, unemployment benefits and STAR rebates. The full report can be found at https://lirpc. org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/LIRPC-Balanceof-Payments-Report-12.5.23.pdf

NYU Langone earns award for quality and safety Following a string of top accolades over the past year, NYU Langone Health has once again earned a Top Hospital award in recognition of its national achievements in patient safety and quality care from the Leapfrog Group. Tisch Hospital and Kimmel Pavilion in Manhattan along with NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island have been designated Top Teaching Hospitals by Leapfrog, a national watchdog organization that measures the quality of patient care across many areas, including infection rates, practices for safer surgery, maternity care, and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medi-

cation errors. Only 6 percent of hospitals surveyed by Leapfrog earn the Top Hospital honor. “As the only Top Hospital in Manhattan, our staff has demonstrated their unwavering dedication to providing patients with the best care possible,” said Fritz François, MD, executive vice president and vice dean, chief of hospital operations. “This award is a testament to their determination and commitment, but we know there is always more we can do, and we will never stop working to improve our quality, safety, and patient experience.”

Last month, each of NYU Langone’s inpatient locations across the system earned “A” ratings from the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for the seventh consecutive time. The highest-performing hospitals on the Leapfrog hospital survey are recognized annually with the Leapfrog Top Hospital award. “On Long Island and throughout the system, our quality and safety outcomes truly set us apart from other institutions,” said Joseph J. Greco, MD, executive vice president and chief of hospital operations at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island. “Our community can feel confident in the high standard

of care they will always receive at NYU Langone.” NYU Langone consistently receives external recognition for its superior quality and safety outcomes. Earlier this year, Vizient Inc. named NYU Langone the No. 1 hospital in the nation for quality and patient safety. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report included NYU Langone on its “Best Hospitals Honor Roll,” ranking 10 of its clinical specialties among the top 10 in the nation, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) awarded NYU Langone five stars for safety, quality, and patient experience.

SUNY Old Westbury literacy clinic taking applications The Literacy Clinic at SUNY Old Westbury is currently taking applications for its free Spring 2024 sessions. The Clinic accepts students from Pre-K through 12thgrade on and provides indi-

vidualized instruction in reading, writing, oral language, and listening skills. Instruction is given by graduate students who have their New York State Initial Certification in childhood education, bilin-

gual education, special education, or an adolescent content area — and they are working in area school districts. Sessions take place once a week on Mondays from 6-7:30 p.m. starting on Jan. 29,

2024 to May 20 on the university’s campus. Parents that are interested in signing up or learning more can contact Clinic Coordinator, Dr. Elizabeth Morphis at morphise@oldwestbury.edu.

SUNY Old Westbury School of Education honored The SUNY Old Westbury School of Education, in partnership with Hempstead Union Free School District, is one of two New York-based institutions of higher education included as the Branch Alliance for Educator Diversity launched its fifth National Teacher Preparation Transformation Center cohort. The university and its district partner join other institutions comprising the Transformation Center’s previous cohorts that are collectively focused on diversifying the teaching profession and intentionally addressing critical issues of educational equity for all students. Along with SUNY Old Westbury, Mercy University was included in the fifth BranchEd cohort. Through participation in the Transformation Center — a three-year program supported by a $300,000 grant from BranchEd — SUNY Old Westbury joins a unique community of practice where each institution’s faculty, staff, and leadership and their respective school district partners can access enhanced resources and professional development, network with others, share data, and learn from each other to move forward with sustainability and innovation. “The teacher education pipeline needs more qualified, diverse candidates to help educate the students of tomorrow,” said Diana Sukhram, dean of the SUNY Old Westbury School of Education. “We are excited to be part of this

program as we work to continuously improve our programs, strengthen our partnership with Hempstead Schools, develop the next generation of teachers to serve the increasingly multicultural student populations across the region.”

perintendent of Hempstead Union Free School District. The National Teacher Preparation Transformation Center program was created in 2018 by Dr. Cassandra Herring, BranchED’s founder, president, and CEO. Since then, BranchED’s work has been recognized with 2023 recipient of the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education’s Edward C. Pomeroy Award for Outstanding Contributions to Teacher Education and the Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings Award given by the HBCU Teacher Education Topical Action Group. “The Empire State is home to one of the most diverse student populations in the country but only 23 percent of New York teachers are teachers of color,” said Herring. “We are excited to partner with these two universities to implement high-quality preparation for teachers who will serve the unique needs of all of the state’s students.” BranchED focuses on enhancing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of individuals and institutions from PK-12 and higher education within the Minority Serving Institutions’ educator preparation program (EPP) ecosystem. The organization engages with MSI EPPs, their PHOTO BY F.J. GAYLOR partners, and prospective candidates to develop strong teacher-candidate pipelines to boost program enrollment and graduation.

“We are excited to collaborate with BranchEd to foster diversity and excellence in education for our students. We know that the program will have a positive impact on our school community,” said Regina Armstrong, su-

The New Academic Building at SUNY Old Westbury

42 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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Business&RealEstate

Beware of water damage to your home It’s Sunday and I hear the pounding rain pummeling down on the skylight in my home office. I am thinking who will have a wet basement or a damp inside wall today? I decided to go out this morning a second time to remove the debris in my gutters and leaders to prevent the overflow of water behind my soffits from then seeping into my interior walls. I also performed my winter lawn fertilization with a 32-8-8 material (32% nitrogen, 8% phosphorus, and 8% potash) so I won’t have to do it again until early summer 2024. This will nourish the rhizomes and tillers to build a strong root system and provide a healthier and greener appearance throughout the winter months. Doing this now will provide your landscape with a much nicer curb appeal, especially during the holidays, assuming you have a decent lawn to start with, and will make your home stand out. Winter seeding can also be done now so it will germinate sooner this coming spring. When I think of all the flooding that has occurred this year, I have been looking at homes from a different perspective as to what needs

to be done to prevent the intrusion of water inside your basement and other areas. When purchasing a home, buyers should keep in mind that climate change is here to stay for the foreseeable future. Excessive bouts of rainfall will have a major effect and potentially major damage to one’s home if preventative measures aren’t taken. Buyers should look at the grade of the property to determine if it is slanting toward or away from the foundation. The best situation is having the property graded away from the home. Are your gutters and leaders draining into a dry well or does the water flow onto your lawn, patio, or flowerbeds? One must be extremely diligent to make sure that whatever water is coming off the leaders does not back up into your foundation, causing either a wet basement or worse — mold conditions. Your home inspector will check for these conditions as well as cracks in the foundation that might cause an issue later on. One way to alleviate a water issue in the basement is to add French drains with a sump pump. In this fashion, any water coming in will drain through

PHILIP A. RAICES Real Estate Watch

the perforated piping and end up being eliminated by the pump pushing it out into the sewer system. As they say, “an ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure.” Most critical is the age of the roof and its condition. Going up and inspecting the roof for damage is important and knowing how many layers of roofing tiles there are. The maximum should at most be three layers. If there is any damage to the plywood, then it must be

removed and new sheets must be put in place. Then a water-resistant or waterproof thin sheet or layer must be installed before adding the new roofing tiles. Today the preferred material used is called Architectural shingles. Also, if you are planning on purchasing solar panels, this will be an ideal time to consider installing them as a new roof should last 2540 years depending on the materials used, weather conditions and necessary maintenance. Installing an attic fan will minimize the heat that your roof will be subject to in the summer as well as eliminate it from the interior of your home, enabling your air conditioning system to function more efficiently. Buying a home entails some very important things to think about. The three things I suggest you consider are location, location, and also school district. If you have the first and third items somewhat covered, then the second “location” will be critical, too. Staying within your budgeted amount in purchasing requires a lot of research, looking, and visiting homes. Many will not look at the property or think about water issues until they pay a

home inspector to come and do an inspection and provide a report. However, you can survey the property upon first visiting to see if some of those items that I had conveyed earlier are in workable order. I do not expect anyone to go up on a roof. Looking at the property to see if it is graded away from the foundation can easily be determined. If not, you can ask if there is there a sump pump in the basement to eliminate water damage. As our climate warms over the years and the potential for more serious and dangerous storms occur, purchasing a home that is safe from water invading the interior and knowing what to look for becomes tantamount to making a pragmatic and logical decision. Philip A. Raices is the owner/ Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. For a 15-minute consultation, value analysis of your home, or to answer any of your questions or concerns he can be reached by cell: (516) 6474289 or by email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate.Com or via https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com

TECH The “Internet of Things” and Smart Clothing You’ve probably heard of the Internet of things, but thought, “what does it mean to me?” To answer that exciting question, let’s first understand the term itself:

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

Business&RealEstate

UBS Arena, Islanders add Janet Duch UBS Arena and the New York Islanders have appointed Janet Duch as Executive Vice President, Marketing & Communications. In her role, Janet will lead the entertainment and venue marketing efforts for UBS Arena and the Islanders brand, go-to-market plans, performance marketing, digital & social media, and creative strategies. Janet will report to Kim Stone, president UBS Arena and John Collins, operating partner New York Islanders. “Janet is a welcomed addition to

our executive team as she brings a wealth of experience driving revenues and running high caliber organizations,” said Kim Stone, President UBS Arena. “Additionally, her knowledge of the Metro New York market is second to none and will help us make an impact in just our third year as a venue. We are excited to have her join our team.” “Having extensive experience working with Janet at the NHL and On Location, she brings a wealth of institutional experience and knowledge in transactional marketing. Duch

will play a vital role in the success of the UBS Arena and the New York Islanders,” said John Collins, operating partner New York Islanders. With more than 25 years of business operations, marketing and commercial experience in sports, entertainment and hospitality industries, Janet has built her experience across various iconic and start-up entities. Most recently, Duch led the strategic day-to-day start-up plans for the 2023 relaunch of the XFL and its eight teams, as chief marketing and team business operations officer. Dutch

joined the XFL in April 2019, serving dual roles as president of the New York Guardians and head of performance marketing for the league. Prior to her experience at the XFL, Janet served as senior vice president of marketing and communications for On Location Experiences, a leading premium event hospitality business, owned by RedBird Capital, Bruin Capital, and the NFL’s 32 Equity. Duch began her career at Madison Square Garden, where she served in various capacities over her 18 years from 1997-2016.

During her time at MSG she led marketing, ticketing strategies, brand, fan experiences, and youth programs for the NHL’s New York Rangers and NBA’s New York Knicks, WNBA’s New York Liberty and MSG Sport. Janet is a Sports Business Journal Forty Under 40 Recipient — Class of 2015, and a Forty Under 40 Recipient Marketing & Communications Leaders in Sports – Class of 2015. She earned a degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Northwell Health partners with Carnegie Hall Northwell Health, New York’s largest healthcare provider and private employer, today announced a threeyear sponsorship deal with Carnegie Hall, making it the first official healthcare partner of one of the most prestigious music venues in the world. In addition, Michael Dowling, Northwell’s president and CEO, has been named to Carnegie Hall’s board of trustees, where he will join other corporate and philanthropic leaders from across the United States and around the world to help guide the strategic development of the institution, ensuring it remains important to music’s future as it has been to its past. The three-year sponsorship reflects Northwell’s longstanding commitment to providing care and service across communities and will deliver support for Carnegie Hall programs that connect people throughout New York City with the transformative pow-

er of great music. The sponsorship includes support for the Carnegie Hall Citywide concert series, which partners with local community organizations to bring free musical performances representing music of all genres to neighborhoods in all five boroughs of New York City as well as a special February performance in Zankel Hall, the centerpiece of a recently-announced series of WellBeing Concerts at Carnegie Hall which explores the impact that live music can have on individuals with eight curated “Well-Being” concerts, open to the public in the 2023–2024 season. “We are proud to be the Official Healthcare Partner with this storied New York institution that has set the international standard for musical excellence as the aspirational destination for the world’s finest artists,” said Dowling. “At Northwell, we strongly believe in the healing power of music

and know the positive impact music has had on both our patients and staff. As New York’s largest healthcare provider, caring for over two million people annually in the New York metro area and beyond, we hope Carnegie Hall’s Citywide and Well-Being concert series reinforce our connection to each other, our families and our communities.” “We’re thrilled to welcome Northwell Heath as our first-ever Official Healthcare Partner,” said Clive Gillinson, executive and artistic director of Carnegie Hall. “Over the years, through the Hall’s wide range of education and social impact initiatives, we have seen firsthand the many ways that music can play a role in supporting health and well-being. We are grateful for a partner who shares our belief in the healing power of music and the positive impact it can have people’s lives.”

Sands N.Y. partners with the Long Island Nets Over Thanksgiving weekend, Sands New York and the Long Island Nets, NBA G League affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets, partnered to host a three-day “Holiday Hoops Experience” at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum this weekend for 75 children from Long Island, as part of the Sands Cares Youth Empowerment Initiative. Long Island Nets players Patrick Gardner, Terry Roberts, and Kameron Hankerson surprised the participants with a visit during the Sunday clinic. Participants were between the ages of 8-14 and from Hempstead, Uniondale, East Meadow, Garden City, and other New York metro area communities. Throughout the three-day event, the group

of children was taught basketball fundamentals by clinicians from The Long Island Nets Basketball Academy. LINBA clinics are designed to build character while developing a strong fundamental understanding of the game, with children developing their basketball skills in shooting, ball handling and passing, in addition to learning sports safety techniques. Sands established the Sands Cares Youth Empowerment Initiative as part of its global priority on youth education and mentoring. Creating opportunities for today’s youth builds tomorrow’s leaders and supports the company’s overarching goal of helping sustain thriving communities that are great places to live, work and visit.

Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra, Citywide

46 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

Recent Real Estate Sales in

21 Firwood Road, Port Washington

54 Park Avenue, Port Washington

3 bd, 2 ba, 1,356 sqft, Sold On: 10/11/23, Sold Price: $799,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: Port Washington

3 bd, 2 ba, Sold On: 10/17/23, Sold Price: $952,200 Type: Single Family, Schools: Port Washington

24 Ashwood Road, Port Washington

58 Bar Beach Road, Port Washington

3 bd, 2 ba, 1,586 sqft, Sold On: 10/18/23, Sold Price: $875,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: Port Washington

4 bd, 3 ba, Sold On: 10/18/23, Sold Price: $1,294,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: Port Washington

Editor’s note: Homes shown here were recently sold in Port Washington by a variety of real estate agencies. This information about the home and the photos were obtained through the Zillow.com. The homes are presented solely based on the fact that they were recently sold in Port Washington and are believed by Blank Slate Media to be of interest to our readers.

Experience, Integrity,

Proven Results

Maria Rovegno

Lic. Assoc. R. E. Broker O 516.944.2858 | M 516.729.2413 maria.rovegno@elliman.com

50 The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

Dems pick Suozzi for Congress bid Continued from Page 1 In the House, Suozzi was a member of the Ways and Means Committee, the chief taxwriting committee and the vice-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus. Suozzi has also been an advocate of increasing the cap on state and local taxes, known also as the SALT cap. Earlier this week, Hochul called Suozzi – a bitter rival during their primary campaigns last year – to the Executive Mansion in Albany, The New York Times reported. Hochul reportedly asked Suozzi for his campaign plans, to fully defend abortion rights and not run ads that damage the Democratic party’s brand, The Times reported. After accepting each request, Suozzi reportedly apologized for previous campaign messaging last year that questioned Hochul’s family’s ethics. Before Congress, Suozzi’s political career began as mayor of Glen Cove 31 in 1993, following the footsteps of his father and uncle. After four terms, in 2001 Suozzi was the first Democrat elected as Nassau County Executive in 30 years. During his time as executive, he lost the Democratic nomination for governor in 2006 to former state Attorney General Eliot Spitzer. Suozzi then lost to Republican Ed Mangano in both 2009 and a rematch in 2013 before defeating state Sen. Jack Martins in 2016 for the 3rd District after Democrat Steve Israel retired from Congress. Republicans have not yet picked Suozzi’s opponent, which could be announced as soon as Friday or next week, according to multiple reports. Among the candidates mentioned or announced are Martins, Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip, Afghanistan war veteran and former J.P. Morgan Vice President Kellen Curry and retired NYPD Det. Mike Sapraicone, February’s special election will have major implications for Congress, where Republicans now have a 221-213 majority in the lower chamber without Santos.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Former U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi. In 2020, President Joe Biden won the district over then-President Donald Trump. In the years since, Republicans have done well in local races, flipping the Nassau County executive and district attorney seats and the state Senate seat in the district while North Hempstead turned and stayed Republican in 2021 and 2023. Republicans currently have control of both counties on Long Island and all three towns in Nassau. The House Democratic super PAC shortly after Santos’ expulsion announced plans to spend big to flip the seat back from Republicans. “House Majority PAC plans to play a significant role in the NY-03 special election, and

we will do whatever it takes to flip this district blue,” House Majority PAC President Mike Smith previously said in a statement. Smith also said Thursday that Suozzi has a proven record of prioritizing his communities and that he has “cemented himself as a steady hand and trusted leader.” House Speaker Mike Johnson earlier this month attended multiple fundraisers in the state for both state Republicans and individual members of Congress, including Anthony D’Esposito of the 4th Congressional District. D’Esposito is one of 17 House Republicans that represent districts Biden won in 2020. Biden won NY-4 by 17 points. In New York, Democrats lost six congressional races last year that Biden carried in 2020. Johnson told the audience at one of the events in Manhattan that he will become “an honorary New Yorker” in the upcoming election cycle, according to the New York Post. The congressional district maps may look different between now and the November election next year as the Court of Appeals hears arguments on whether the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission and can new House maps. The commission, made up of an equal number of Democrats and Republicans, failed to reach a consensus on maps for 2022, causing the Democratic-controlled state Legislature to create its own. The Democrats’ proposal, which would have given them a strong majority of registered voters in 22 of the state’s 26 congressional districts, was said to be gerrymandered and rejected by the state’s Supreme Court. The current map of the district which was eventually won by Santos was submitted by court-appointed a “special master” who was viewed as more neutral. Democrats are arguing that the current maps are only a “temporary fix” and new ones should be redrawn. A previous version of this story was published. It has since been updated.

Belmont Stakes moving to Saratoga Continued from Page 4 the first time since 2005. David O’Rourke, NYRA president and CEO, thanked Hochul for the support of a new Belmont Park that will bring more excitement to the event. “Beyond the excitement and energy around a Triple Crown event at the sport’s most beloved venue, the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course will generate important economic impact and drive tourism throughout the Capital Region,” O’Rourke said in a statement. “We are thrilled to add a new chapter to the story of thoroughbred racing in Saratoga Springs this June.” The Belmont Stakes, the oldest leg of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown along with the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, moved to Elmont in 1905. The inaugural running took place in 1867 at Jerome Park Racetrack in the current-day Bronx. Belmont was also the scene of Secretariat’s 31-length victory in 1973 to secure the Triple Crown followed by Affirm in 1978 and American Pharaoh in 2015.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BELMONT PARK

A $455M loan for a new Belmont Park was secured in the New York state budget on May 2.

Port North OKs fire contract Continued from Page 2 “I think it’s a great start to fixing a problem I know we have,” Mayor Robert Weitzner said. Weitzner said the purchase of the trash cans is to mitigate the issue of large amounts of trash being dumped at the Bay Walk trashcans, including kitchen-sized garbage bags. The smaller, enclosed opening to the new trash cans would diminish the size of trash that could be dumped. “I think it’s a good solution,” Trustee Steven Cohen said. The village’s purchase of these garbage cans will cost about $7,900. In other news, Weitzner said the village has made strides to begin its plans for an inclusive playground that would cater to children and individuals with autism and physical disabilities, with over a million dollars already raised for the conceptual project due to a new grant the village received recently. The playground, which also includes plans for a new village hall and Department of Public Works facility on the plot of land, would feature amenities catered to children with disabilities and include an accessible walking trail around the playground. Weitzner said he began applying for grants to aid in funding, receiving notice two weeks ago that the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historical Preservation awarded them a grant of $500,000 which the village will match. The mayor said the village has also received two pledges of funding from state Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti and Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggiWhitton, both equating to $125,000 each. “So we are on our way,” Weitzner said. Weitzner said the village will soon begin discussing working with engineers to create a master plan for the upcoming project. The board also adopted a resolution condemning Hamas’ attacks against Israel and supporting Israel’s right to defend itself and protect its citizens. Weitzner said the resolution was supported by the entire board, despite Trustee Andrea Scheff and Trustee Matthew Kepke not being present at the meeting Tuesday night to vote on the resolution. The resolution refers to the attacks by Hamas as “deplorable,” also calling for the release of hostages taken by Hamas during it. The village’s board of trustees will be holding a public hearing Dec. 20 to consider a conditional use permit for potential new business Just Salad. The Port Washington North Board of Trustees will host its next regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 16.

The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

McCarthy ousts Staley in police race Continued from Page 1 “The real work can start now,” McCarthy said. The newly elected police commissioner said his focus upon taking office is working to advance the police department’s new headquarters and getting familiar with the department’s staff and operations. “I want to sink my teeth into the building,” McCarthy said. Staley was elected to the seat in 2020, concluding his time as commissioner after three years of service. The now exiting police commissioner began his career in 1982 as a foot patrol officer for the Port Washington Police Department, rising through the ranks to his final post of deputy chief and retiring in 2014. He is the department’s first black police commissioner and its first black deputy police chief. The other competitive election of Port Washington’s special districts was the race for its water commissioner, with the incumbent Water Commissioner Peter Meyer securing another

term. Meyer defeated business and technology consultant Charles “Chuck” Idol and local general contractor Mark Gibbons by about 200 votes. Meyer won with 468 votes, or 45.6% of the total votes, with Idol receiving 289 votes, 28.1% of the votes, and Gibbons receiving 259 votes, 25.2% of the votes. The district race also received 11 write-ins. Meyer, a Port Washington resident of about 50 years and owner of Meyer Mechanical Services, has served as one of Port’s water commissioners for 23 years. The other two district races in Port Washington, the Port Washington Water Pollution Control District and Port Washington Garbage District, each featured the incumbents running in an uncontested election and ultimately winning their re-election bid Tuesday night. Port Washington Water Pollution Control District Commissioner Melanie Cassens secured her seat with 518 votes. The district’s commissioner election also received 23 write-ins. Cassens was elected to the board in 2018 to

ﬁnish out the last two years of the term left by her father, John Olszewski, after his death the July before the election. Port Washington Garbage District Commissioner Paul Oleksiw won with 503 votes. The district election received 16 write-ins. Oleksiw is a local business owner and lifelong resident of Port Washington. Before serving as commissioner, Oleksiw was a member of the Board of Directors of the Port Washington Business Improvement District. The Roslyn Water District also held an election for a water commissioner, which was not included in the Port Washington special district election but services parts of Port Washington. Incumbent Water Commissioner William Costigan ran unopposed in the election and secured his re-election with 28 votes cast for him. Costigan, a Roslyn community member of 42 years who owns a printing and binding company, has been a water commissioner for the Roslyn Water District since 2002.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAN MCCARTHY

Retired Nassau County Police Chief Sean McCarthy.

Chef Ramsay cooks up a new Diwan Town OKs

Continued from Page 3 ment of the recent cultural fusion decorations to focus on “authentic Indian vibrancy,” Ramsay said. The new, smaller menu switched to a focus on the “modern, regional Indian cuisine,” Ramsay said. Customers have responded positively to the new menu, with multiple positive reviews complimenting the restaurant’s traditional curries and new dishes. The praise for the new menu, which featured fewer processed ingredients and paid homage to traditional Indian cooking, was also embraced by the owners who sat and enjoyed the ﬁrst dinner service after renovations in the episode.

“The curries, the sauces, the ﬂavors, everything is talking to me,” Diwan’s front-of-house Ellsberg Fernandes said.“It tells you a history of India, it tells you a culture of India, it tells you the people of India.” The renovations to the restaurant were also met with excitement by the owners, which focused on the restaurant’s Indian culture with vibrantly colored decorations mixed with a classic dining experience. “I did not imagine to have such a warm, inviting, Indian feel,” Margaret Chhikara said in the episode. The introduction of the new Diwan was welcomed by customers, as featured in the episode, with many loving the new dishes. Ramsay complimented owner Bobby

Chhikara for his drive and dedication to his restaurant, encouraging him to keep moving forward while making time for himself as he faces retirement from his long days in the kitchen. “It’s very rare to meet such a solid, amazing man that’s still got the strength of a 25-year chef today, but hand it over now,” Ramsay said. “You’ve got a beautiful restaurant, you’ve got a great chef, an amazing family. Enjoy this part Slow down.” Diwan is open to the public, serving its revamped Indian cuisine seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m., extending service an hour longer until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

DeRiggi-Whitton to lead Dem caucus Continued from Page 4 2012 but is stepping down after not seeking reelection this year. Her leadership position, which was selected by members of the caucus, is to begin in 2024. DeRiggi-Whitton’s fulﬁllment of the leading

position will be formally conﬁrmed in January when the new legislature convenes. The selection will occur when the 19 legislators vote on a presiding oﬃcer, granting the runner-up of the opposing party the position of the minority leader. As the Nassau County Legislature is split

12-7 with Republicans controlling the legislative body, the presiding oﬃcer nominated by a majority of the votes is expected to be a Republican. “I am beyond proud to lead our team into the future, and we are ready to directly confront and overcome Nassau County’s greatest challenges,” DeRiggi-Whitton said.

$59M for sewer

Continued from Page 2 DiFiore said the district has conducted major projects in the past to maintain the infrastructure, but that it has reached a point where regular maintenance is not enough to keep the aging infrastructure in adequate working condition for the future. “But the reality of the matter is infrastructure and time is not our friend,” DiFiore said. DiFiore said that there is no scheduled start date for the project to begin but there will be no interruption in service for district residents when it does begin. “People ﬂush their toilets and we have to treat it,” DiFiore said. “There’s no change.”

52 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

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56 The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

▼ LEGALS

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▼ LEGALS

Notice of Formation of Juiced Boxes LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 202312-07. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Michael Frey: 15 GLEN ST, Suite 104 Glen Cove NY 11542. Purpose: Any lawful purpose SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2005-J9, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-J9, Plaintiff against- WILLIAMS SANDOVAL, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated February 10, 2023 and entered on February 16, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court "Rain or Shine" located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 9, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Port Washington, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as SBL: 4-J-30. Said premises known as 87 HARBOR ROAD, PORT WASHINGTON, NY Approximate amount of lien $507,377.56 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 001380/2016. SANFORD STRENGER, ESQ., Referee Pincus Law Group, PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 {* Port Washington*}

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Continued from Page 12 Idol agreed that, while he doesn’t know the next emerging contaminant, he is conﬁdent in the development of technology to speedily address the issue and would assist in ﬁnding solutions. “I don’t really think there is anything that we can’t tackle,” Idol said. He suggested boosting education for residents on contaminants and how they can help reduce their entering into the water. “We can educate but we can’t control,” Idol said. Meyer said that the district is already taking action for the possibility of emerging contaminants. “It’s not something that we’re not thinking about for the future,” Meyer said. “We’re thinking about you and me and what we’re drinking… We’re not just thinking about today. We’re moving ahead with the thinking.” While contaminants are entering the water source, Idol reassured residents that the water is still safe. Idol said as water commissioner he would promote sustainability, conservation and “any other method necessary to protect our groundwater and our environment.” “As your water commissioner, I will work tirelessly to protect the infrastructure and water resources which is drawn from a sole source aquifer,” Idol said. Gibbons said the district already

has established expansive water conservation projects, but that “there’s always more that can be done.” He suggested irrigation home assessments, rain harvesting and promoting dual ﬂush toilets to continue the district’s conservation eﬀorts. “Conservation is just not Port Washington’s problem,” Gibbons said. “It’s Long Island’s problem.” Gibbons said as commissioner he would also want to increase local education on water systems and conservation, starting at an early age with young children. Meyer said the district already has an education program for students, holding events at schools inviting them on tours of the well pump stations. One resident asked the candidates whether or not they were open to working with other local water districts to develop shared services. All three agreed they would not want to consolidate, advocating for a district that solely services Port. “If you have a problem with your water you want to be able to call up your local supplier and get somebody right on the spot, right there,” Meyer said. “And that’s what we do… You call Port Washington, somebody’s right there.” Gibbons and Idol said that if there are methods of sharing services with other districts to save money, they would consider implementing such

practices. Idol said that he would look to advance the operations of the district and bring in solutions like implementing community solar to diminish electricity usage and its costs. “I hope to take a bigger picture view of the operation itself and look at helping to maintain costs,” Idol said. Meyer said the initiatives and plans the candidates proposed have either already been implemented by the district or already looked into and determined to not be feasible. He said he has pushed for responsible water use and conservation efforts, as well as advanced the technological advancements of the district during his tenure. “As a longtime water commissioner with a proven track record of experience, I am committed to the community as an environmental leader and will continue to protect and serve and manage Port Washington’s water resource,” Meyer said. “As commissioner, I’m putting Port first, today, tomorrow and in the future.” Idol said he is the best candidate “for the future,” attributing the claim to his experience in business, technology, operations and environmental advocacy. He said his environmental leadership exemplifies his “care, concern and commitment” to the Port community’s environment and water. “All this for the preservation and safety of infrastructure of our water,”

Idol said. Gibbons touted his construction knowledge, problem-solving skills and team building abilities. He said if elected, he would do differently than Meyer by being a more active presence in the community. “I want to be the face of this water district,” Gibbons said. Gibbons questioned Meyer’s passion for his position after serving 23 years, saying he lacks a public presence representing the district. He advocated for the next generation of water commissioners, bringing eagerness to the post, saying that he is that candidate. “We need a water commissioner that will be out within our community, with our residents,” Gibbons said. “Not only spreading the message of our district but listening to our 30,000 residents about their needs.” “As far as being in the newspaper every day, that’s not my position,” Meyer said. “I’m working behind the scenes.” Residents of the district can vote from 12-9 p.m. on Dec. 12 at the Polish American Cultural Association at 5 Pulaski Place in Port Washington. All of Port’s special district elections will be held there at the same time, including the Water District, Water Pollution Control District, Police District and Garbage District.

The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

COMMUNITY NEWS

Community Chest Donations at Our Lady of Fatima Thanksgiving run More than 3,300 runners and walkers took part in the 48th Annual 2023 Port Washington Thanksgiving Day 5-Mile Run presented by the Community Chest of Port Washington and the Town of North Hempstead. The top race finishers were Port Washington residents — 20-year-old Luke Ellwood with a time of 26:19, followed by 25-year-old Andrew Adelhart (26:49). First place female finisher was 23-year-old Ellie Davis (30:59) of Port Washington. For the first time, a Thanksgiving Day Run Red Feather award was presented to first-place male and female finishers, Luke Ellwood and Ellie Davis. Each winner randomly selected a Community Chest grantee non-profit, to receive a $1,000 grant from the proceeds of the TDR event, with Luke selecting the Parent Resource Center and Ellie the Art Guild. Thanksgiving Day Run awards were given to the top three finishers overall (male and female) and to the top three finishers (male and female) in 16 different age categories. For a full listing of all of the top participants, visit http://flrrt.com/results/ port23a.txt “We’d like to thank our dedicated Community Chest volunteers, our sponsors and the amazing support of the Port Washington community

that made this year’s Thanksgiving Day run a great success,” said Bobby Keller, executive director, Community Chest of Port Washington. Officially sanctioned and certified by USA Track and Field, the Thanksgiving Day Run is co-presented by the Town of North Hempstead and assisted by the Port Washington Police and Fire Medics, the Sands Point Police and the Nassau County Police, along with the villages of Manorhaven, Sands Point, Baxter Estates and Port Washington North. The run’s technical director is David Katz, founder of Finish Line Road Race Technicians. FLRRT, a pioneer and innovator of modern road race technology, calculates timing and results and post results at www.FLRRT. com. The Community Chest is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to raise funds for distribution to local charities dedicated to improving the lives of Port Washingtonians. Community Chest grants support programs for senior citizens, children, teenagers, and others in need—programs that serve more than 7,000 Port Washington residents. To learn more about the Community Chest of Port Washington or to find out how you can support the Chest, contact the Community Chest at (516) 767-2121 or visit the website at www.portchest.org.

Port Washington is a town that gives back in so many ways. One of the busiest times of giving is typically around Thanksgiving when an “attitude of gratitude” is emphasized throughout our community. At the L’Dor V’Dor Early Childhood Center in Sands Point, the preschool children and their families are dedicated to thinking more globally about helping those in need in our community, not only during Thanksgiving but all winter long. On Monday, Dec. 4, with the help of parent volunteer, Sloane Ackerman, an entire carload of muchneeded food supplies was delivered to Our Lady of Fatima food pantry in Manorhaven. On this “Donation Day,” ECC students were so proud of their hard work and were in awe of how much they had actually collected. “I have tried to instill the values of gratitude and giving in my children since they were born. I feel lucky to send my children to a school that provides opportunities to reinforce these lessons. The food drive allowed my very young son, Jack, to help me choose some of his favorite foods to donate to those in need, “ shared Ackerman. Beginning Nov. 1, the preschool students at the ECC, ages 18 months to 5 years, began collecting canned goods and shelf-stable food items for donation. The Community Synagogue preschool chose to tie this particular food collection to more than just Thanksgiving. In speaking with Sister Kathy Somerville at Our Lady of Fatima in Manorhaven, she shared that their food pantry is at its lowest in winter months when people in our community are in greatest need. “Helping to stock the food pantry at this time of the year feels significant, especially when it’s tied to Thanksgiving,” said assistant director, Liad Zayit. T he Community Synagogue has strong ties to the Port Washington community and has partnered with Our Lady of Fatima in many ways over the years. Given the church’s proximity to the Early Childhood Center, the school directors felt it was especially important to give back to community members in their own backyard. An important tenet of Jewish education is the concept of tikkun olam. Tikkun olam is the idea that we, as a community, can help to repair the world through our actions. Furthermore, it is considered a

mitzvah or “commandment,” to perform good deeds, such as donating food to help those less fortunate. “In our school, we are teaching our littlest learners about how we perform these conscious acts of empathy and kindness to support individuals in our community,” said director Jen Schiffer. The food pantry at Our Lady of Fatima is an important part of the Port Washington community, and the children of the ECC, and their families, are proud parents in caring. The delivery on Monday helped to restock the panty after Thanksgiving, and will now help ensure that the pantry is stocked for the winter months to come. Watching the boxes being loaded in the car helped the students at the ECC to better understand the idea of giving back. The volunteers at the food pantry were grateful to receive such a large delivery from neighbors and friends.

ECC students helped to load their donations into the car for delivery to Our Lady of Fatima

Officials attend Port Chamber of Commerce fall networking

Top Finishers Luke Ellwood and Ellie Davis Recognized with First Red Feather Award

North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and Council Member Mariann Dalimonte attended the Port Washington Chamber of Commerce’s Fall Networking and Installation Dinner at Ayhan’s Lobster & Fish House in Port Washington on Nov. 16. DeSena performed the swearing-in for the board members and Dalimonte swore in the ofﬁcers.

Pictured left to right, Council Member Mariann Dalimonte, Bobbie Polay, Debbie Grecco, Nassau Count Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, and Supervisor Jennifer DeSena at the Port Washington Chamber of Commerce Fall Networking and Installation Dinner.

58 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 15, 2023

SPORTS WWW.THEISLAND360.COM

Claro to G.N. GIRLS SCALE coach at FENCING HEIGHTS Chaminade

Team has won 5 county championships in a row

PHOTO BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

Alyssa Wong, left, andDana Li, right, during a recent practice of the Great Neck South girls fencing team. The squad has won five Nassau County championships in a row. BY M I C H A E L J . LEWIS It is not a sport you see on playgrounds or gymnasiums around town. Nor is it on television in its competitive form, except at the Olympics. And honestly? It sounds kinda dangerous when you just describe it on paper, in words: Two competitors, dressed in full protective gear, attack each other with swords and try to score points by landing the sword on the other’s body. But for the girls of the Great Neck South fencing team, it’s a sport they love, and it’s where they found a home. On the strip, weapon in hand, they’ve come to the sport from all different ways and have learned to embrace it. “The other kids at school think we’re a little odd, definitely not a mainstream sport,” laughed Angela Wu, a senior. “But once they learn about it and maybe come see us, they think it’s cool and want to know

more.” Fencing, to the average person, is only seen in movies like “The Princess Bride” or new TV shows like “Wednesday.” But it requires stamina, pinpoint accuracy, quick-twitch reflexes, and confidence. “We get kids with all levels of experience, from ones who’ve done it before for years and others who’ve never done it at all,” said coach Catie Sagevick. “And having that mix really helps us. If you’re a kid who can take directions and put forth some effort, we can help you and build some knowledge. And you’ll have fun. “We get kids from badminton, volleyball, a bunch of other sports who are just curious about us and want to give it a try.” Competing in one of three specialties (epee, foil and sabre), Great Neck South’s team has built quite a fencing dynasty in Nassau County; having won the last five girls’ team titles, and are going for a sixth as the season is just underway. But the dragon they have not

slayed (sticking with sword metaphors here) is Commack. Four times in those five years the Suffolk champ Cougars have beaten Great Neck South in the Long Island championship, and this year the Rebels are determined to change things. “Each year we make a goal board at the start of the season, and put something down on it and try to manifest it to happen,” said senior Kira Nguyen said. “We always in the past have put down Nassau champs, but this year we put down Long Island champs. We really, really want that.” Each fencer for GNS has a different origin story; Nguyen tried a ton of different sports before age 9, when she noticed the North Shore Fencing Club sign while on the way to a party at the Pump It Up party center. Alyssa Wong came to the sport after watching her brother, all-Long Island now current Boston College fencer Ryan Wong, compete for years. “I just thought it was so cool,”

Wong said. “And I saw how much my brother changed, as a person, by joining the fencing team, and how it helped him to have a community of people on the team.” What does it take to be a good fencer? Confidence and courage is No. 1, said Wu. When she first came to practice she said she was terrified of hurting someone. “I would literally close my eyes when I came forward to try to (hit someone,)” she said. “You just have to get over that fear by practicing over and over again. And also, you watch other people (compete) and they don’t get hurt, so you realize it’s OK.” Beyond courage, stamina is crucial, since fencers are constantly moving back and forth in quick bursts throughout the match.Also helpful is agility and the mental gift of strategy, and knowing when to attack and when to play defense, so to speak. With three different specialties to choose from, how does a fencer decide which to pursue? According to team members, sabre is the most intense and fast-paced, whereas epee is more of a full-body workout and more strategic. Foil is a combination of them both, the Great Neck fencers said. “For sabre it’s so much about confidence, if you have confidence you can succeed,” Wong said. “When I tried it I knew it was for me.” So far this season the Rebels have won all three matches through December 11, including a win over rival Great Neck North on Dec. 8. With nationally-ranked fencers Kira and Ashley Nguyen leading the way along with Wu and Wong, Sagevick feels her team is deep and strong enough to again compete for the LIC, with rivals Great Neck North and Syosset and Jericho likely vying for the crown as well. “We’ve got a great group of girls who come to practice and really want to get better,” Sagevick said. “We’re putting all our eggs in one basket this season, and that basket is the LIC’s.”

Chaminade High School has announced the appointment of Thomas Claro ’92 as head coach of its varsity football team. Claro has spent the last several seasons as offensive line coach at Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains. Prior to his tenure at Stepinac, he coached at Fordham University as the tight ends coach and assistant offensive line coach. Claro brings a wealth of high school and college coaching experience. He served as the offensive coordinator/offensive line coach at Xavier High School in Manhattan from 2001-2003 and as the offensive line coach at Chaminade from 1997-2001. A 1996 graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, Claro was named a First Team Associated Press I-AA All-American as a senior in 1995. He also was a First Team All-New England selection as a senior and was a three-time First Team All-Patriot League lineman (1993, 1994, and 1995). Following graduation, Claro was a member of three NFL teams (Jacksonville Jaguars, New England Patriots, and Arizona Cardinals) and played for the Barcelona Dragons of NFL Europe. A 2003 Brooklyn Law School graduate, Claro practices law in New York. “We are excited to start the next chapter of Chaminade football,” said athletic director Mr. John Honerkamp ’93. “I am looking forward to working with Coach Claro and the rest of the team. Go Flyers!”

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The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

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60 The Port Washington Times, Friday, December 15, 2023

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