ROSLYN TIMES 2024_02_16 by The Island 360

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Friday, February 16, 2024

Vol. 12, No. 7

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Suozzi beats Mazi easily Democrat regains Santos’ congressional seat in heated race with national implications BY C A M E RY N O A K ES

PHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES

Democrats Tom Suozzi claims victory over Republican Mazi Melesa Pilip in race for disgraced Rep. George Santos’ 3rd Congressional District.

Democrat Tom Suozzi easily defeated Republican Mazi Melesa Pilip in a hotly contested special election with national implications Tuesday night for the congressional seat vacated by disgraced former Rep. George Santos. With 100% of the precincts reporting, Suozzi had won 91,338 of the votes to Pilip’s 78,229 — nearly 54% to 46% — in a race with unexpectedly high turnout despite snow early Tuesday. Nearly 85% of the vote came from the Nassau County portion of a district that stretches from Massapequa to the south, up across the North Shore and into eastern Queens. “Despite all the attacks. Despite all the lies about Tom Suozzi and the Squad. About Tom Suozzi being the godfather of the migrant crisis. Sanctuary Suozzi,” Suozzi said in claiming victory at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. “Despite the dirty tricks. Despite the vaunted Nassau County Republican machine. We won!” “This race was fought amidst the closely divided electorate, much like

our country,” Suozzi went on to say. “This race was centered on immigration and the economy much like the issues all across our country. We won this race, we, you won this race… and we found a way to bind our divisions.” Suozzi’s win represented the first significant victory in a major race for Nassau Democrats in three years. Jay Jacobs, the Nassau County and New York State Democratic Party chair, called Suozzi the “comeback kid” for reclaiming his congressional seat after stepping down to run in an unsuccessful primary bid for governor in 2022. In a concession speech to her supporters at the Lannin restaurant in East Meadow, Pilip said: “We are fighters. Yes, we lost, but it doesn’t end here.” The race heavily focused on national issues such as abortion and immigration with Suozzi at the end contrasting his support for bipartisan border security legislation developed in the Senate that Pilip opposed. Former President Donald Trump, who is the overwhelming favorite to win the Republican nomination, Continued on Page 42

Roslyn enrollment shows little growth BY C A M E RY N O A K ES School districts on Long Island’s North Shore have seen drops in enrollment in the past decade, nearly amounting to double-digit percentage drops in their student populations at some of the schools, but some are still seeing increases of the opposite

degree. Blank Slate Media analyzed the enrollment of the 13 North Shore schools based on data from the New York State Department of Education. Of the 13 school districts on the North Shore, slightly more than half have seen drops in their enrollment since 2012.

The seven school districts recording decreases in enrollment are Carle Place down 8.9%, East Williston 8.2%, Manhasset 8.1%, Sewanhaka 6.1%, Westbury 2.7%, Glen Cove 2.1% and New Hyde Park-Garden City Park 0.8%. Six school districts, though, experienced growth in their student populations over the decade. North Shore school districts with a growing enrollment are Port Washington up 2.2%, Roslyn 2.8%, Great Neck 3.6%, Mineola 6.1%, Floral Park-Bellerose 8.6% and Herricks with the highest increase of 12.8%. The total enrollment of the

13 North Shore school districts has dropped marginally with a 0.05% decrease, amounting to nearly 25 fewer students over the decade. The decline in enrollment for North Shore schools follows a larger trend in school districts across Long Island and New York State seeing a decrease in their student populations. Newsday reported that 76% of Long Island school districts saw drops in their enrollment from the 20122013 school year to the 2022-2023 school year. Of North Shore school districts, 53.8% had decreases in student enrollment. Overall, Newsday reported that

student enrollment dropped by 7.33% across the Island with Suﬀolk County recording a decline of 10.5% compared to Nassau County’s smaller decrease of 3.3%. School enrollment has become a key issue in the governor’s proposed budget and subsequent state aid to schools. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2025 budget proposal includes an allocation of $35.3 billion in state school aid. This is an increase of $825 million from the prior budget, or a rise of 2.4%, amounting to the highest proposal for school funding in the state’s history. Continued on Page 43

The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Herricks allocates millions for suits Adds $2.7M in response to victims act BY JA S M I N E SELLARS

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLENA KIM

The Champkids Lunar New Year art competition winners.

Champkids raises $1,800 for charities Student-run organization hosts children art contests BY C A M E RY N O A K ES Champkids, a local art organization started by a Roslyn High School student, raised $1,800 for charities at its Lunar New Year youth art competition to help local communities and beyond. “I didn’t really imagine that this would become such a huge event, such a huge turnout that we had on Saturday,” Champkids founder Allena Kim said. “Just seeing all these kids with their smiles on their faces after winning and being so happy to be together with kids that have the same interests as them—it just makes me so happy.” Allena, 16, is a Roslyn High School junior who founded her organization Champkids in 2018 at the age of 11. Champkids offers live art competitions where young artists can

compete, receive feedback from live judging and participate in the award ceremony all in one day. The Champkids Lunar New Year art competition was held Saturday at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City and hosted in partnership with Nassau County. The event featured two art competition categories split by grades: one for kindergarteners through second-graders and the other for thirdthrough fifth-graders. More than 150 kids took part in the competitions, with the top three artists winning in each category. Overall, more than 500 people attended the competition. The younger category artists participated in a coloring competition and had an hour to color and draw on a provided coloring page. The older category artists participated in a

drawing competition where they were asked to draw motifs related to the Lunar Year on a blank piece of paper. Winners in the younger category were Stella Xu in first place, Chloe Zhang in second place and Ella Liu in third place. In the older category, Alivia Lin won first place, Alexandria Lu came in second place and Gloria Nan secured third place. Every cent that Champkids raises is donated to charities, with the designated charity varying from each art competition. Saturday’s Lunar New Year art competition raised enough money to go toward two charities, both of which Allena said are dear to her heart. The two charities that were designated donations by Champkids’ recent competition are Tzu Chi Academy, Allena’s former Chinese school of Continued on Page 48

The Herricks School District has drafted a new estimated budget for 2024-2025, proposing millions for claims and legal fees amid various lawsuits and Child Victim Act cases. The district is increasing its expenses for claims and legal fees by $2,696,000 in the proposed budget. This comes after multiple Child Victim Act cases regarding child sexual abuse by several teachers were filed against the district in the last four years. “It is in the best interest of the District to enter into settlement agreements with certain plaintiffs who have commenced actions against the District pursuant to the Child Victims Act,” the district wrote in its meeting agenda. “Additional funding will be needed to support the unanticipated expenses associated with settlement of said claims not included in the 2023-2024 budget; and, Therefore: it is the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools that the following resolutions be adopted.” The school board also voted to enter a settlement agreement in the lawsuit John Doe v. Herricks Union Free School District Thursday night. “For claims and legal – because it does continue to be a challenge for most of the district – in 20232024 alone, we had $2.1 million set aside for claims alone,” board trustee Nancy Feinstein said. “We have almost $5 million this year set aside for legal and claims in the 20242025 budget is the assumption.” The district presented its draft budget a the Herricks Board of Education meeting Thursday night, with the budget proposal set at about $141.7 million. The draft budget proposed is a 5.2% increase from the 2023-2024 budget, but a 3.25% increase excluding claims and legal fees. The district is also proposing a tax levy increase of 2.38%, which is permitted within the state’s tax cap. The school district’s budget also

calls for major increases in other areas including health insurance, payroll and transportation, signaling plans to purchase new school buses and replace bus patrol onboard cameras. In the upcoming school year, the district is also looking to hire an additional school counselor at Herricks Middle School and a special education teacher at the elementary level. Foreseeable upgrades in facilities and equipment include refurbishments of select classrooms across the district and renovations of the HMS auxiliary gymnasium and kitchen. In other news, the board also welcomed students, parents and faculty from Searingtown Elementary School Thursday night for their presentation of P.S. I Love You Day, a non-profit organization in New York State that aims to support individuals who suffer from mental illness. “We’re so happy to have our wonderful fourth-grade Searingtown scholars to come and share what P.S. I Love You Day is all about,” Searingtown Elementary social worker Cathy Wong said. Fourth-grade students shared with the Board of Education what the celebration means to them. “P.S. I Love You Day teaches us about why mental health is important and we all need to take care of ourselves and each other,” said one fourth-grade student during their Continued on Page 43

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The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Neighbors seek to remove ‘squatters’ NHP residents challenge court order granting them occupancy, say rental lease invalid BY C A M E RY N O A K ES For months the residents of Brussel Drive in New Hyde Park have been living with suspected squatters who they say have created an unsafe environment that has put the neighborhood on edge. Now they’re trying to kick them out. “We lose sleep over this because now we’re so nervous, we’re so scared, especially for our kids,” neighbor Jerry Jacobs said after several run-ins between the unwanted newcomers and residents. He is leading dozens of fellow New Hyde Park residents who are banding together to oust their unwanted neighbors, alleging that their occupancy is illegal and they should be removed immediately. Jacobs said two individuals, a 19-year-old woman and a 29-yearold man, moved into a foreclosed and abandoned house on their street with their baby and dog in August 2023. The previous owners of the home died nearly 10 years ago, Jacobs said. With the death of their sole heirs and nobody to take over the home, it fell into foreclosure and became abandoned. Prior to the couple’s moving into the foreclosed home, Jacobs said it

gering the welfare of a child. Both pleaded not guilty to the charges. In addition to the child endangerment charges, the man was charged with second-degree obstructing governmental administration and resisting arrest. In October, the Town of North Hempstead Building Department determined the home had failed its inspection and was unlivable without working bathrooms. “So then the story kind of moves forward that we felt we would never see them again,” Jacobs said. But after being arrested and removed from the unlivable home in October, the two individuals challenged the action in court, contending they were evicted without notice or reason. They provided a signed lease to show they were tenants of the property. They were then granted residency as tenants of the home in DecemPHOTO COURTESY OF JERRY JACOBS ber. “We were shocked when they showed up,” Jacobs said. The formerly abandoned house on Brussel Drive in New Hyde Park that neighbors say is occupied by Since January the alleged squatsquatters. ters have been back and the neighhad been empty for for ﬁve years and closed home occupied by the family plumbing, Jacobs said, which led to borhood’s pushback on their presence has strengthened tensions and and investigated the home in Octo- the arrest of the two individuals. that it was “falling apart.” Jacobs said police were alerted ber. This is when they discovered the Both of the suspected squatters left residents feeling fearful. Continued on Page 43 to the living conditions at the fore- home had no electricity, hot water or were arrested on charges of endan-

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The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Chaminade students win NASA challenge Team’s first-place project measures fuel using infrared sensor that analyzes rocket flame BY S A M U E L S C H U LT Z A team made up of nine Chaminade high school science students have won the NASA TechRise Student Challenge. Sophomore Antonio Savastano, who orchestrated the group’s proposal with guidance from Karen Kuntz, codirector of Chaminade’s science center, will receive a $1,500 grant to implement their project. In addition to the grant, the group will be awarded an assigned spot on a NASA-sponsored commercial flight along with technical support during the experimental build phase from a NASA engineering mentor. The project focuses on creating an infrared sensor to measure the characteristics of the flame of a rocket. The sensor then uses a mathematical equation to see how much fuel is remaining. “The main thing we’re looking at is the temperature of the flame to determine our fuel percentage”, said Antonio. The idea for the project was formulated in October after Kuntz recommended the challenge to Antonio. It wasn’t until a month later that the proposal was submitted. “We recently started our science

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMINADE HIGH SCHOOL

research program. We have students meeting during the day to learn science research skills and pursue projects. I’m always looking for diﬀerent competitions for the students to participate in,” Kuntz said. “The NASA one came up and I knew Antonio had

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sion for this. I love exploring the unknown, which is what space flight allows us to do.” Over the next few months, Antonio and his team will meet weekly with NASA TechRise engineer mentors to continue to build out his project and learn new lessons. Lessons include using microcomputers, wiring and soldering, along with coding. The sensor will launch on a NASA-sponsored rocket this summer. The NASA TechRise Student Challenge invites teams of sixth- to 12thgrade students to design, build, and launch science and technology experiments on a high-altitude balloon flight and rocket-powered lander during the 2023-2024 school year. NASA encourages public, private, and charter school students in all the states and territories to form a team, brainstorm an experiment. The challenge offers hands-on insight into the design and test process used by NASA-supported researchers. It aims to inspire a deeper understanding of the Earth’s atmosphere, surface features, and climate as well as space exploration, coding, electronics and the value of test data.

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The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Dalton celebrates 100 years of service Funeral home, first opened in Floral Park, faced greatest challenge during COVID-19 pandemic BY M I C H A E L J . L E W I S The phones never stopped ringing. The demands and requests never stopped coming. It was non-stop, 24/7, for several months. Of all the businesses in New York that were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, few had as hectic a time as Dalton Funeral Homes. With New Yorkers dying by the thousands every day, the vast need for burial, cremation and any other needs when dealing with the deceased was unlike Dalton had seen in 96 years in the business. All five of their locations were receiving missives from people hundreds of miles away, with families and hospitals desperate to try to do whatever they could to have some sense of normalcy as they mourned their loved one. Managing partner Victor LoGuidice and Floral Park location manager James Lewis still wince at the memories of those days, with hundreds of arrangements to make at a time, and no ability to offer in-person services, or the normal process of the end of life. Two small examples of the insan-

“But we did everything we possibly could to ease the burden, and make it easier on the families.” In this case, it meant Dalton often having “drive-by” services in conjunction with Our Lady of Victory parish in Floral Park, as Father Tom Fusco would hold an outdoor service for mourners, while a hearse would drive by. Whatever the community needs, Dalton has been there, and this month they will be celebrating its 100th year in business, with approximately 40 total employees. With locations in New Hyde Park, Floral Park, Williston Park, Levittown and Hicksville, Dalton is a Nassau County institution. Beginning with founder Thomas F. Dalton opening a storefront at 41 Atlantic Ave. in Floral Park in February, 1924, Dalton has grown and thrived as many generations of family memDalton Funeral Homes is celebrating its 100th anniversary this month; its first location was in Floral Park bers and outside employees have kept the spirit of community, family and (seen in present day, above) helping alive and well. The final family member involved During COVID, LoGuidice said, loved ones to be treated with respect,” ity of the time: LoGuidice and Lewis with the business, Beth Dalton Costelrecalled asking their usual cremato- they were hearing they couldn’t ac- LoGuidice said. “You had the families lo, left Dalton in 2023, but thanks to rium and cemetery partners about commodate Dalton for three, four, being devastated and then not really employees like LoGuidice, Lewis and being allowed to mourn the way they administrative assistant Kathleen bringing over a deceased loved one. sometimes five weeks from now. “It broke our hearts, it really did, would like, and so they had a lot of Mendolia, Dalton is still providing serNormally, the lead time needed was Continued on Page 43 just a few days. because loved ones still wanted their guilt.

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Suozzi, Pilip Blank Slate’s 40 Under 40 honors Nassau’s rising stars hold lone debate BY C A M E RY N O A K ES For a group of young professionals – all under the age of 40 – who were honored for their achievements by Blank Slate Media Thursday, the next step is to continue the momentum that has already been felt across Long Island. “My goal for this speech was that you would walk away inspired to make a difference on Long Island each and every day,” Stacey Sikes said. “That’s difficult because you already have. You have all touched the lives of so many people and

made them better.” But keynote speaker and honoree Sikes, vice president of Government Affairs for the Long Island Association, also challenged her fellow honorees to push forward by tapping their creativity and imaginations to find new ways to innovate their fields in a reference to the sentiments of Chef Julia Child. “So if we live by what Julia said in our own lives, if we seek learning our craft while being inventive just like a culinary masterpiece, the possibilities are limitless,” Sikes said.

Blank Slate Media’s annual 40 Under 40 Thursday night celebrated 40 honoree recipients, singling out notable young professionals from 16 to 40 who have achieved high accolades and made a lasting impact in just the early stages of their careers. The youngest honoree was Shayna Blumenfeld, 16, a youth ambassador for Kyra’s Champions – a charity that advocates for policy and legislative actions to protect children from violence within the home. Continued on Page 36

PHOTO BY JOEL HARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Blank Slate Media’s 40 Under 40 honorees. See more photos on pages 11, 12 and 13.

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BY C A M E RY N OAKES Tom Suozzi and Mazi Pilip clashed at their first and only debate in the abbreviated special election to replace expelled U.S. Rep. George Santos as the candidates challenged one another over how to tackle the district’s pressing issues. The sole debate of the campaign hosted by News 12 came just days before Tuesday’s Election Day, but five days after early voting had begun. Former Democratic Congressman Suozzi and Republican Nassau County Legislator Pilip are facing off in the Feb. 13 special election, which could help determine the balance of power in the House with Republicans clinging to a tiny majority. The candidates debated topics including the migrant crisis, abortion, cost of living, Israel, gun legislation, climate change and their predecessor — George Santos — with questions also coming from the audience. The debate got rowdy at

moments, with the candidates delivering jabs at one another, talking over each other and audience members cheering – notably the GOP leadership – amid calls to hold their applause until the end. From the jump, tensions were clear between the candidate as their opening statements focused on the wrongdoings of their opponent. These attacks continued throughout the debate. In the wake of Santos’ expulsion and Port Washington resident Ilana Broad calling his brief tenure in the House “major damage” to the district’s reputation, both candidates denounced the infamous congressman. Suozzi and Pilip both touted their integrity, but Suozzi took a moment to attack Pilip’s lack of transparency and unwillingness to participate in public debates and forums during the campaign. He said this has been detrimental to voters in vetting the candidate they choose to vote for. Continued on Page 47

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The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

SCHOOL NEWS

Mineola schools requests for student transportation The deadline for submission of Requests for Transportation for students from the Mineola School District attending non-public schools for the school year 2024-2025 is April 1. For further information, contact your school or the Mineola Transportation Department at (516)237-2080.

Learners in the Mineola High School RISE program prepare to deliver coffee and treats to staff and faculty.

RISE learners start with coffee, smiles Every Friday, learners in the Reaching Independence through Support and Education program at Mineola High School are delivering coffee and treats to faculty and staff and gaining valuable lessons in return. First thing in the morning, the students are excited to organize the orders made the day before. They help prepare the coffee and sort

the items before heading out, with help from a teaching assistant, to make the deliveries. The learners practice greeting the customers, handing over their orders, taking money, giving change and thanking them. Deliveries aren’t just limited to the high school. Often the learners make their way to the Synergy building and district oﬃce across the

street, which usually involves seeing old friends and meeting new ones! After all the deliveries are made, the students learn to count the money and ﬁnd out how much they made in tips. They can decide whether to use the tips to get a treat from the vending machine now or wait to use it during a trip to Dunkin’ Donuts.

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ALL PHOTOS BY JOEL HARRIS Joel Harris Photography www.joelharrisphotography.com

Blank Slate Media honored 40 under 40 rising stars who have all made a significant impact in their field, from business, entrepreneurship to health, education, law and not-for-profit. The event was held at Leonard’s Palazzo of Great Neck on Thursday, February 8. Stacey I. Sikes, Vice President of Government Affairs and Communications of Long Island Association was the keynote speaker, and Antoinette Biordi, 4 time Emmy award winning News 12 reporter and anchor was the emcee. For more information about each honoree, visit https://theisland360.com/40-under-40/

12 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

ALL PHOTOS BY JOEL HARRIS Joel Harris Photography www.joelharrisphotography.com

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

14 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

Opinion

OUR VIEWS

1 side now to blame for border crisis

ntil two weeks ago, blame for the crisis at the border could be placed on both Democrats and Republicans in Congress who failed for decades to address America’s broken immigration system. But that plague on both houses should have ended when most Senate Republicans banded together with a handful of Democrats to reject a sweeping national security and border reform that their leadership helped negotiate for months. Then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and later House Speaker Mike Johnson had demanded that the crisis on the southern border be solved before Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan would receive $114 billion in much-needed aid requested by the Biden administration. Much to many people’s surprise, a bipartisan team of Senate negotiators actually reached an agreement after Democrats reluctantly agreed to Republican demands. So make no mistake: Blame for the unfettered flow of migrants, which GOP officials have repeatedly called an “invasion,” and fentanyl, which has killed thousands of Americans, now lies with the Republican Party. Twenty-five Republican senators, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell dropped their support for the bipartisan legislation after Johnson called the measure “dead on arrival” and the GOP House leadership would not allow for a vote in the House. Why? There are two explanations. House Republicans, including those from Long Island, said the legislation was not tough enough. They supported a House Republican bill introduced in 2023 that would require the Department of Homeland Security to renew the construction of a border wall, bolster punishment for immigrants who overstayed visas in the U.S., raise the bar on who is eligible for asylum and give DHS far more authority to turn away migrants at the border. But this was a non-starter. Democrats had already said they would not support the legislation, now or in the future. Besides, the proposal lacked the tools to end the crisis at the border. The other explanation for the House rejecting the Senate bill is that former

President Trump, the overwhelming favorite for the Republican presidential nomination, told them to. Trump’s chances of winning election are greatly improved by chaos at the border. They decrease if Congress reduces the flow of migrants and fentanyl into the country. Would the Senate legislation, which included more than $20 billion to enhance enforcement, have reduced the flow of migrants and fentanyl into the country? Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma, an immigration expert and staunch conservative who helped lead the bipartisan negotiations, McConnell and other party leaders said yes. They called the legislation a generational opportunity to implement the most conservative border security measures in decades. The Wall Street Journal echoed the senators. As did The National Border Patrol Council, the union that represents Border Patrol agents. The union, which twice endorsed Trump for president, said the proposed legislation would drop illegal border crossings nationwide. But House Republicans wouldn’t take yes for an answer. Long Island Congressmen Nick LaLota and Anthony D’Esposito (NY-CD4), both of whom face re-election in the fall, joined fellow Republicans in opposing the legislation. D’Esposito blasted the bipartisan legislation as a “disastrous [Senate Majority Leader Charles] Schumer-led Senate ‘deal’” in a tweet on X, saying it “further surrenders control of our nation’s borders.” LaLota said, “My nine-year-old did a better job negotiating last night’s bedtime than Senator Lankford did on this socalled border bill.” They were joined by Mazi Melesa Pilip, a Nassau County legislator with two years experience in public office, who was running to replace expelled Rep. George Santos in New York’s 3rd Congressional District. Pilip’s campaign focused on the immigration crisis, blaming her Democratic opponent, former Congressman Tom Suozzi, President Joe Biden and even New York

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Editorial Cartoon

City Mayor Eric Adams for the influx of migrants. The statement she released echoed the words of Johnson. “The proposed Senate border deal is an absolute nonstarter for me because it simply puts into law the invasion currently happening at our southern border,” she falsely claimed in the statement. “This deal does not accomplish that goal at all, and in fact sets a threshold of at least 1.5 million additional migrants entering our country each year. That is truly appalling.” Pilip was soundly defeated by former Congressman Tom Suozzi on Tuesday night after the Democrat pounced on Pilip’s opposition to the Senate’s legislation and promoted his support. Will Trump and Republican Long Island congressmen running for re-election this fall learn their lesson — or will they continue to oppose a fix to the chaos? They may still think their opposition to the Senate deal is good politics. But what they have been saying is not true. The proposed legislation, now opposed by Republicans, would have immediately addressed the No. 1 problem with gaining control of the border — money. The legislation would have provided about $20 billion for hiring new asylum and border patrol officials, expanding the capacity of detention facilities and increasing screenings for fentanyl and other illicit drugs. It would also would have made it more difficult for migrants to claim asylum and would remove the courts from the appeals process, putting such decisions in the hands of an internal review board.

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

The legislation would have raised the bar for migrants who say they have a “credible fear” of persecution if returned to their home countries. It also required migrants to show that they could not have simply moved to a different part of their home countries to evade that threat. The bill also would have ended catch-and-release and allowed migrants granted asylum to get a job within 90 days – rather than wait six months under the current law. And it would have given money to places like New York City dealing with an influx of migrants legally seeking asylum who have been transported by Republican-controlled border states. Perhaps most importantly, the proposed legislation would also have created a trigger that would effectively close the border to migrants trying to cross into the United States without authorization. The trigger would be tripped if the average number of migrants encountered by border officials exceeded 5,000 over the course of a week or 8,500 on any given day. Encounters would have to fall to a daily average of 75 percent of those thresholds, again over the course of a week, for affected intake processes to start up again. The bill also would give the president power to close the border if migrant encounters reach an average of 4,000 per day over a week. If the proposal were passed into law, the new authority could be triggered almost immediately, given that border encounters topped10,000 on some days during December, which was the highest month on record for illegal crossings.

Biden said he would use the authority to “shut down” the border the first day it was passed. What the legislation lacked was a pathway to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented people who have lived in the U.S. for many years, including “Dreamer” immigrants brought in as children. That was a longtime stumbling block for Democrats that all but five accepted to make the deal. As an alternative to the Senate legislation, Trump has outlined a radical shift in immigration policy if he is elected again in 2024, vowing to implement unprecedented measures targeting both legal and unauthorized immigrants, including a massive deportation blitz. He has also pledged to build miles of more border wall, impose dramatic limits on asylum. and end birthright citizenship for the children of immigrants living in the country. And he said he would unlawfully deputize the National Guard to carry out mass deportations and deny entry to legal immigrants based on their ideological beliefs. In one recent interview, Trump said some migrants were “poisoning the blood of our country.” The country now faces an unmanageable influx of migrants and deadly drugs that will continue for at least another year. This will inevitably be accompanied by an unending number of campaign ads blaming the other side for the crisis. At this point, only one side will be right.

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

OUR TOWN

Keeping that spark in the season of love

ince it’s Valentine’s Day this week, let’s chat about the mysterious of all things, love. To paraphrase the French writer Simone de Beauvoir, as humans we are all in charge of the empire of the unattainable, the empire of love. Film, song, literature and psychoanalysis have all grappled with the concept of love. Let’s start with film. Films: Virtually every great film concerns itself with love and its problems. Even shoot-em-up films like “The Matrix” has a love interest with Trinity yearning for Neo. “John Wick,” the film with serious kill counts, is based upon the loss of John Wick’s wife. She left him with a dog which was then killed and thus we have the beginning of the “John Wick” franchise. The action crime film “Miami Vice” starred Colin Farrell and Jaimie Foxx and the plot of that film centered upon the romance between Sonny Crockett and Isabella played by Gong Li. “Man on Fire” starring Denzel Washington was all about the way the character played by child actress Dakota Fanning ignited love in the heart of a seasoned killer. “The Last Samurai” was a period action drama starring Tom Cruise, who played a burnedout alcoholic soldier who fell in love with the wife of the samurai he killed in battle. And, of course, dramas like “Amade-

us” and “Lost In Translation” and romantic comedies like “Shakespeare in Love” focus on love and its loss. The recent film “Birdman” starring Michael Keaton was largely based upon the short story by Raymond Carver titled “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.” This film concerns a sad and hapless film star turned Broadway playwright who seeks redemption from guilt by trying to become a serious writer. All of these films blindly search for the answer to how to find and how to keep love. Music: The Beatles became famous with songs like “She Loves You,” “All You Need Is Love” and “I Want to Hold Your hand.” They tapped right into the heart and they were rewarded with world fame.“In Search of Lost Time,” one of the finest novels ever written, is about the life-long and hopeless unrequited love Proust has for Gilberte Swann. “The Divine Comedy” is driven by Dante’s unrequited love for Beatrice. “Don Quixote” was a founding work of Western literature and was about an elderly man who decided to become a knight-errant and revive chivalry. His devotion to Dulcinea is a reminder that the need for passion and love never dies. Victor Hugo’s “Les Miserable” is the remarkable story of Jean Valjean’s devotion to the orphan child Cosette. You may note thus far that all of the films and

DR. TOM FERRARO Our Town

books just referenced explore the loss of love as opposed to the joy inherent in it. This should indicate to the reader that love is one of mankind’s greatest desires but also mankind’s greatest mystery. One of my favorite writers is Donald Barthelme and one of his most sardonic stories is entitled “The Glass Mountain,” the journey of a man who climbs up the side of a glass skyscraper on 13th Street and Eighth Avenue in Manhattan. He quests for an enchanted symbol at the top of the building and when he finally gets there, the symbol turns into a princess whereupon he throws her off the roof. This is the story of a man who has quite obviously been hurt by love. Even

the classic American play “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder struggles to answer the question of love. Dr. Gibbs and his wife seem to have found love, but all the other characters in the play are loveless or die young. The field of psychoanalysis has been charged with the effort to help patients find love or resolve their traumatic losses so that they are open to love. Patients lose parents, spouses and children and they often show a notable inability to face this loss and resolve it. Long ago, Freud established the basic positon that mental health is achieved when one obtains satisfaction in the areas of work and love. Freud simplified matters by suggesting that love derives from the sublimation of sexuality. Since then, however, there has been little theorizing about romantic love or ways to keep love alive with the exception of Ethel Persons’ book “Dreams of Love and Other Fateful Encounters.” She makes the unique observation that love is so compelling because when we find love, we fuse with the other and no longer feel so alone or isolated in the world. She goes on to say that one of the basic aspects of love is that you are made to feel you are priority No. 1 in your lover’s eyes and this feeling of being No. 1 is a very special and unique experience. So if you are looking for a valentine

this week and are still seeking love, know that you are not alone. Seeking love is similar to embarking on the quest for the Holy Grail. The quest is a worthy one because when you find love, it has the power to restore life, youth and energy to the one who finds it. So be like Perceval or Don Quixote, be brave and go find some. That make take some flirting, which Proust referred to as “the silent prayer.” To quote the English poet John Keats, who said, “I am certain of nothing but the holiness of the heart’s affectations.” Seeking love is the worthiest of quests. And if you have already found love but want to keep it alive, make sure you remind your lover that for you, they are No. 1 in your eyes.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM FERRARO

Love is like a flower, beautiful but it can also wither on the vine if not watered.

KREMER’S CORNER

Trump’s fate may be decided by 9 black robes

ll students of history will agree that there are three branches of government. There is the House and the Senate, and last but by far not the least, the Supreme Court. There will be a lot of factors that will decide who is the next president, but my bet is that the nation’s highest court will be the body that will decide the fate of candidate Donald Trump. The court will get its first opportunity to shape history when it decides whether the former president can be kept off of the Colorado and Maine ballots. Most legal scholars agree that the Court will more than likely restore former President Trump to the ballot and settle the question as to whether presidential candidates have a right to go before the voters. That will make the Trump camp happy. The rest of the upcoming docket will be a lot tougher for Trump. The recent appellate decision deciding that President Trump does not

enjoy immunity, once he is a private citizen, is a body blow to the Trump campaign. The Supreme Court will get a chance to decide if the lower court was right and that could happen within weeks. There is also a possibility that the Court will decline to take the case which would trigger a criminal trial for Mr. Trump by June of this year. The next case that will impact on the November election is the matter involving Idaho’s six week ban on any abortion being conducted in an emergency room. The court has already upended Roe v. Wade and if the conservative majority sticks to its anti-choice philosophy, a decision favoring the ban will help encourage major demonstrations by the choice movement. Abortion is an issue that will be front and center again this year but other cases will get a strong reaction from the women of America. Presently, more than half of America’s women

JERRY KREMER Kremer’s Corner

take a morning after pill. The anti-abortion advocate groups have brought a case before the high Court that could decide whether the Food and Drug Administration has the power to regulate drugs of any kind. Aside from the fact that the FDA

challenge could create major disruptions for millions of women, various anti-vaccine groups would start their own litigation to outlaw dozens of important medicines aimed at keeping children healthy. Gun control is one of America’s hot button issues and there are two cases that will get lots of attention from the gun safety groups. One matter deals with a government ban on the attachment that makes a guns fire as rapidly and makes them into an automatic weapon. The second one deals with taking away gun rights from spouses who are abusive to their wives. A pro-gun decision on either case will definitely reignite the gun control debate. These are just a handful of cases that will be argued and decided by the end of June. That kind of timing guarantees strong reactions from the anti-Trump movement. In addition, there will be numerous appeals by Mr. Trump from any

kind of decision in any court you can name. There are two cases pending in New York that will get appealed as far as Mr. Trump can take them. One or two of them may get to the nation’s highest court, if the court is inclined to grant any appeal. Up to now, the Supreme Court has not shown any consistent bias in favor of Trump. who continuously brags about his appointment of three very conservative justices. As for all the lower courts, the former president has a poor batting average. All of Trump’s challenges to state election laws have been rejected in more than 60 courts. The vast majority of those cases were before judges who had been appointed by President Trump who decided against his stolen election claims. Considering that Mr. Trump has spent over $60 million in campaign donations on his lawyers, no future book will be written which refers to all of the courts as Trump’s courts.

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.

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E A R T H M AT T E R S

The trashing of Long Island’s environment

inters Brothers Waste Systems, a Long Island company that collects our trash, recently issued a 2023 review of the solid waste crisis facing Long Island. According to the report, our 2.9 million residents produce more than 14 million pounds of municipal solid waste each day. That’s a lot of garbage! A truck reliably picks up my trash three times a week. But I couldn’t help but wonder what actually happens to it? Here’s what I found: About 60% of Long Island’s waste goes to Covanta incinerators, less than 15% is recycled and the rest is trucked out of state for landfilling elsewhere. Covanta’s waste-to-energy schemes claim clean burning in a process that generates power. But I’m a biochemist. I couldn’t quite believe that burning my trash would transform it to energy with no environmental cost. Heavy metals and other toxins don’t just disappear. Shockingly, I discovered that for every four tons of material incinerated, at least one ton is left behind as toxic ash that still needs landfilling. Most of that ash on Long Island is disposed of in a giant landfill in the Town of Brookhaven. The tragic reality is that communities of color are carrying the burdens of our consumption and paying with their health.

In North Bellport, original land of the Unkechaug nation, a community with the lowest life expectancy on Long Island lives next to the Brookhaven landfill. Less than an hour away from where I live, this community of mostly Indigenous, Black and Latin people have for half a century watched this controversial landfill grow to a height of 270 feet spanning 192 acres. Every year, about 350,000 tons of incinerator ash is dumped at the Brookhaven landfill. The Suffolk County Department of Health Services has detected emerging contaminants PFAS, 1,4-Dioxane and other chemicals in nearby drinking water sources, and the state Department of Environmental Conservation has ordered the town to close this landfill because of the toxic plume coming from the landfill. But the people in charge claim that will take time. Sick of broken promises and slow governmental action, local residents organized in 2020 as The Brookhaven Landfill Action & Remediation Group, a community-led coalition committed to exposing and rectifying the harms caused by this landfill. They are demanding climate justice. Meanwhile, officials from the Town of Brookhaven refuse to close the landfill, contending there’s still space for more incinerator ashes. North Bell-

HILDUR PALSDOTTIR Earth Matters

port residents disagree: They don’t have space for any more health problems. In nature nothing goes to waste, which is the motto for the Zero Waste movement. Monique Fitzgerald, cofounder of BLARG and a Zero Waste educator, says “the waste is the end result of what we have already done that was damaging.” If we followed nature’s principles, we’d have no waste accumulating. We’d be recycling everything. But most of what people put into their recycling bin here in the Town of North Hempstead isn’t actually recycla-

ble. At best, #1 and #2 plastics are down cycled or lose their value upon processing while shedding harmful particles. Please avoid “wish-cycling” plastics #3-7. Plastics other than #1 and #2 are incinerated in a process that generates toxic chemicals like dioxins that can cause cancers, developmental issues and fertility problems. In the 2012 documentary “Trashed,” professor Paul Connett, author of “The Zero Waste Solution,” warns “the issue of sustainability is the single biggest challenge to our civilization.” The front cover reads: “How cities and towns around the world are saying no to incinerators and wasteful product design and yes to radical recycling, reuse entrepreneurs and the jobs they create.” That’s right, job creation. Incinerators need few employees. Better reclaiming and recycling methods, on the other hand, not only save resources, reduce pollution and conserve energy, but importantly generate jobs. We should only be producing materials that can be efficiently recycled. We should insist that production of harmful materials, such as single use plastic packaging for food storage, be stopped. San Francisco has pioneered best practices with an employee-owned Recology business, reclaiming reusable

materials with the help of thousands of unionized workers. In the Port Washington School District, youth activists at Transition Town Port Washington have fought to get rid of single-use plastics in their school cafeteria. The school is eliminating single-use plastic water bottles and removing plastic wraps from certain foods. Kids get it – they know we have to eliminate plastics from the waste stream. And why are we burning organic materials like food scraps? At least a quarter of our waste is food and should never be considered trash. At the Science Museum of Long Island community compost, almost 10 tons of food scraps have been converted into soil amendment in the last couple of years. This effort took root in the early days of the pandemic and has now grown into a community of about two dozen families who refuse to trash their food scraps. Similarly, at the heart of North Bellport you’ll find BLARG’s anti-landfill community composting collective next to the Chris Hobson Bill Neal Community Garden. In the 2012 documentary “Trashed” narrated by Jeremy Irons, he warns: “The air is tainted with man-made chemicals and our oceans are turning into a toxic soup of floating debris.” Let’s turn this around. We’ve got no time to waste!

VIEW POINT

Blakeman’s Nassau tourism push for self

t’s with pride that Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman calls himself the “CEO of marketing” for the county. When he came to office, he declared COVID banished from the county (“We’ve returned to normal”) despite the uptick in the Omnicron variant because it was bad for business. His tenure in office has been one of one photo op after another, one ribbon-cutting and proclamation after another. And now, he has seized on the ability to control $15 million in self-promotion money by taking control of tourism promotion. The pilot test for this project was the $600,000 in federal COVID relief funds to pay for a series of county tourism promotion commercials starring Blakeman. The ad, with the tagline “Nassau County: Golden Coast to Coast,” aired in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Arizona, upstate New York and the metropolitan area as well as on Newsmax, the right-wing news channel. Instead of “visit Nassau County” the tag line might as well have been “Elect me. Donate here.” And instead of spending the $10 million in federal pandemic relief funding on public safety or public health, he is handing it over to the Ed Moore Advertising to promote the county’s 125th anniversary galas and World Cricket tournament. These might as well be billed as campaign events, just as Blakeman attempted to do with the Chapin concert addressing Long Island hunger at Eisenhower Park last summer (canceled after musicians pulled out because

of his blatant self-promotion). “It is the latest glaring example of how County Executive Blakeman is continuing to exploit federal recovery funds to promote himself and feed his own ego instead of meeting the needs of Nassau County’s residents,” remarked Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton. Now, he is pulling control of nearly $5 million in tourism promotion funding over four years from the professional tourism promotion, non-profit entity, Discover Long Island, and handing it to a smalltime, home-based for-profit marketing agency, RRDA, to promote Nassau on its own. After 45 years of jointly promoting Long Island as a destination, Nassau County will have to pay to teach the world that Nassau isn’t the Bahamas or Florida, and why it is better to visit Jones Beach than the Hamptons. No one outside of the metropolitan area knows there is such a place as Nassau County, but they do know Long Island as a world-class destination. Tourism is not a frivolous activity, but one of Long island’s biggest industries, employers and generators of municipal funding. In 2022, tourism spending on Long Island hit a record $6.6 billion — a $2 billion increase since 2016 when the Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau, rebranded as Discover Long Island, sustained 100,000 local jobs and generated $800 million in local and state tax revenues. Every community, from Cape Cod to Carmel, knows

KAREN RUBIN View Point

the value and competition for tourism, which is why each has a professional tourism promotion agency. “Long Island is the brand that visitors understand and once they visit discoverlongisland.com, they can find a wealth of information on specific and individual businesses, communities and counties,” said Courtney Guiry, public relations and digital communications manager for Discover Long Island. “Over 45 years we have developed deep skills and relationships specific to tourism businesses, conventions, international visitors, and sporting events. We have 11 different social media channels with an audience of over 10 million globally. Discover Long Island is known as a leader in the tourism industry na-

tionwide.” Discover Long Island’s budget is $6 million, generated from 16% of the 3% hotel/motel tax collected. Nassau County’s share is about $1 million a year. So instead of having a $6 million budget to entice vacationers, business travelers, event and convention goers to Long Island, Nassau will have only $1 million – a pittance in terms of tourism promotion spending. Moreover, the county’s decision to go it alone “sets up a situation where Nassau County and Suffolk County are working against each other —and that’s confusing to the customer who knows Long Island but not necessarily the individual counties,” Reynolds stated, adding that a 2017 poll of tourists found 42% had visited Long Island but only 10% could identify Nassau or Suffolk. Indeed, when you Google “Visit Nassau” you get dozens of links to Nassau, Bahamas and a link to “Nassau County Inmate Visitation”. If you are persistent, you may find “Visit Nassau-Nassau County, NY Official Site” where you are greeted with (what else?) Blakeman’s smiling visage. The decision to dump the nonprofit tourism promotion agency, Discover Long Island, for a tiny for-profit content marketing agency raises questions about the who, how and why RRDA LI LLC was selected. Despite the RFP requiring tourism promotion experience, RRDA could offer no actual experience in destination mar-

keting or promotion, tourism promotion or promoting Nassau County. Indeed, the business address for RRDA is actually the Glen Head home of the business owner, Jaime Hollander, who lists previous employment at Conde Nast and Better Homes & Gardens. How did she get the RFP? Hollander said she listed her agency, incorporated in 2019, as a woman-owned business on Nassau County’s website and was sent the RFP by Christopher Boyle, Blakeman’s spokesman. Selection among the seven that responded to the RFP was made by a committee headed by County Parks Commissioner Darcy A. Belyea, who is overseeing the contract. Where does Nassau now get its visitors? What markets will you be pursuing? The committee wants to understand “not just the sentiments of locals in Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, but high value tourists coming here” and where they are getting their travel information. As a for-profit, though, I would imagine what isn’t spent from the $1 million on promoting Nassau is profit. But I would suspect that Blakeman knows exactly which markets to spend money in, based on his $600,000 campaign: they are the pockets of Republican donors, where he can raise his visibility to prime a run for higher office – perhaps governor, perhaps U.S. senator. Questions posed to Blakeman’s spokesman Christopher Boyle went unanswered.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

FROM THE DESK OF JACK MARTINS

They’re cutting bone with state’s funding of schools

y wife and I know a successful, young couple that live in a spacious Manhattan apartment. They have lots of dining and entertainment options, a doorman and great views of a park. Best of all, they roll out of bed, hop on a subway and they’re at the office in a matter of minutes. They’ve got it made, yet everyone’s debating how long it will be before they move to Long Island. You guessed it. This dynamic duo now has a newborn and as with many young families, conversations turn to where best to raise a family. Of course, they’re dutifully fighting it. Hoboken has a “hip little downtown.” Parts of Brooklyn have a “good vibe” but ultimately, the conclusion is always the same: growing families need safe communities and good schools. Education has been part of this equation for as long as I can remember. I’ve known people who paid top dollar for drafty old houses with bad plumbing on busy streets, just to get into a particu-

lar school district. And background, faith, or politics don’t matter; we are united in wanting what’s best for our children. Real estate agents say this is key to Long Island’s robust real estate market. We’re a stone’s throw away from Manhattan and boast some of the best schools in the country. That’s an enviable distinction but one that could now be in jeopardy. Gov. Hochul’s recently proposed budget contains some controversial changes to state aid formulas that hurt Long Island schools. For starters, she’s eliminating 1976’s “hold harmless” provision that gave schools planning stability by guaranteeing at least the same level of funding year to year. That’s because schools couldn’t fairly be expected to put programs in place one year and then pull the rug out on children and parents the next. Unfortunately, her effort will result in more than $167 million in cuts to 337

JACK MARTINS

New York State Senator districts, more than half of the districts in the state, and many of them on Long Island. She’s also changing “school aid runs.” So instead of computing for current inflation, she’s using an 8-year average, which lowers the amount of aid

by another $245 million. Frankly, I can’t think of a greater accounting end run. Do our school superintendents get to tell labor, vendors, or even their insurance that they won’t pay increased fees and prefer to pay an “8-year average?” This is no time for make-believe. If it wouldn’t work in our personal budgets, it won’t work in theirs either. Suffice to say Nassau and Suffolk counties are faced with a combined loss of $75 million, our district alone facing a drop of $5.2 million. The governor would have you believe that we can just change brands of soap and make those savings, but they’re not cutting fat, they’re cutting bone. These funds pay for things like special education, development programs, music, and art – things that make our schools special. And unlike other parts of the state where school budgets get as much as 90% from state aid, some of ours receive as little as 5%.

That means taxpayers shoulder 95% of the costs locally. To ask them to pay more is nothing short of government malpractice. And in a $233 billion budget that’s growing by $5.9 billion in state operating funds, savings can certainly be found elsewhere. She’s spending $2.4 billion on illegal migrants, $275 million on artificial intelligence and even $150 million on swimming pools. Are Long Island students less important? We are America’s first suburb, with communities that place a high value on family life and safety. We are neighbors who send $15 billion more in taxes to Albany than we get back and schools are the backbone of our communities. This is not Democrat versus Republican because districts everywhere are getting cut. This is Long Island versus Albany. It’s time to lock arms and voice our opposition. State Sen. Jack M. Martins represents the 7th Senate District

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

Before Nassau throws party, serve vulnerable

he practitioners who deliver physical, speech and occupational therapy services to babies and toddlers under age 3 with disabilities and developmental delays have not gotten a raise from Nassau County in nearly three decades. As homelessness continues to grow, Nassau has slashed its funding to the Department of Social Services and its Homeless Intervention Team has been disbanded. Yet before solving these issues, the county sank $10 million in federal pandemic recovery aid into its 125th anniversary plans. Since the program’s inception in 1999, Nassau County has paid the same rate of $40 per hour to practitioners in its “Pre-School Related Services” program. Research confirms that after 27 years without an increase, Nassau’s rate of compensation is now the lowest in the state. This has discouraged practitioners from working with Nassau County, and as a result, it has been reported that approximately 200 young people are on a waiting list for services. Shortly after concluding my service on the Westbury School Board and becoming a Legislator in 2014, I

identified – and successfully reversed – plans by the Mangano administration to transfer $4.5 million from the Early Childhood Intervention budget. Additionally, I worked to end the county’s practice of benchmarking the performance of consultants tasked by the County with providing services to youth based upon their cost efficiency. While these were significant strides in preserving the framework of this essential youth initiative, the stagnation in Nassau’s rate of compensation has created major obstacles for families in need of services. With every year that passes, the imbalance grows wider between those who can afford to backfill the services that Nassau County is not providing and those who cannot. Advocates are seeking parity with neighboring municipalities, and because New York State reimburses Nassau County at a rate of 59.5 percent of our outlay for these services, it would have been prudent to increase what we pay by using a small portion of Nassau’s $299 million in remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds as a bridge until higher reimbursements rates kicked in. I can

SIELA A. BYNOE

Nassau County Legislator think of no more appropriate use for these funds than the post-pandemic educational recovery of Nassau County’s young people. A similar disconnect exists in Nassau’s handling of its homelessness crisis. Upon my request in 2017, Nassau’s Office of Housing and Intergovernmental Affairs provided me with a budget report showing that $325,000 was earmarked for the Nassau County DSS HIT team, which was comprised of several Adult Protective Services

employees and Housing and Homeless Prevention personnel and tasked with performing extensive street outreach services. However, after being disbanded, the HIT team was replaced by the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, which has received less than half that sum from the County to provide these outreach services in subsequent years. The Coalition’s 2023 “point in time” count of the homeless on Long Island discovered the number had increased to 3,536 people — 1,463 of them under age 18. Based on these numbers, the need has increased – so should Nassau County’s funding. Rather than apply resources to areas that we know are underfunded, the county executive and Legislative Majority on Jan. 22 transferred over $222 million in ARPA funds into the operating budget and just $15 million into a fund for various not-for-profit organizations and special districts that deliver ARPA-approved services. The $15 million was transferred with no guarantee those resources would be disseminated equally across the Legislature’s 19 districts. It is notable how, a month prior

to this vote, the administration carved out $10 million in federal pandemic money into the county’s 125th anniversary celebration. While they justified this by forecasting an economic boost through increased tourism, analysis published in a recent Econ Focus report shows that the administration’s projection of a $3 return per dollar spent relies on the existence of a near-zero interest rate. Econ Focus further demonstrated that, based on current economic conditions, the actual boost could be as little as 50 cents on the dollar. Faced with an opportunity to optimally resource programs that shelter the homeless and deliver crucial services to deserving, at-risk youngsters, Nassau County should have realigned its priorities. Spending so much to advertise and stage concerts and fund a series of anniversary celebrations appears downright frivolous in light of these unmet needs. Siela A. Bynoe, of Westbury, is the Alternate Deputy Minority Leader of the Nassau County Legislature. She has represented the Second Legislative District since 2014.

READERS WRITE

Officials must condemn violence and sign theft

fter the swatting of Judge Engoron and the ongoing theft and defacing of candidate Tom Suozzi’s campaign signs there should have been a collective condemnation by elected and religious leaders. But so far, the silence has been deafening.

Are violence and theft now to be considered acceptable political strategy? Is silence tacit approval? Where is Suozzi’s opponent’s public statement calling on her supporters to knock it off? Where are our religious leaders collectively deploring the target-

ing of a judge in a high-profile case against a former President? Where are our – county executive, town supervisor, town council persons, Nassau legislators and village mayors clearly and forcefully decrying the swatting, as well as the removal of Suozzi’s signs?

We must let our leaders know that we expect them to lead by condemning this violence and illegal behavior. Indeed, if swatting and theft are now to become acceptable political actions, our community is heading down a dangerous and

slippery slope. The Great Neck community must hold our elected officials to a higher standard and account for their action and inaction. Harriet Becker Great Neck

18 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

MY TURN

Casino culture and the U.S. image to world

ownstate New York will become home to up to three new gambling casinos according to the governor and Legislature. Upstate already has some and it is now our turn. There are 13 applicants for the three licenses available, assuming the “racinos” in Queens and Yonkers, now limited to horse racing and slot machines, apply to add cards and wheels to their business models. The 11 other locations include five in Manhattan: Hudson Yards, Penn Station, Times Square, Saks Fifth Avenue, and one adjacent to the United Nations between First Avenue and FDR Drive. Without debating the morality of gambling, the consequences of gambling addiction on individuals and families, and the irony of promoting gaming to fund our constitutional ob-

ligation to provide schooling, I would like to focus on the symbolism of a gambling casino next to the world forum for peaceful exchanges between nations. The United Nations is not perfect. It is, after all, the creation of humans and is run by them. However, it does have ideals, brings distinction as well as world-wide dignitaries to our City, and would have to be created if it did not already exist. The preamble to the United Nations Charter states, “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war …and to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one anMy Turn other as good neighbors, and to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security, and to ensure that promotion of the economic and social armed force shall not be used … save advancement of all peoples…” The United Nations is a symbol of in the common interest, and to employ international machinery for the what humans of all nations can aspire

ROBERT A. SCOTT, Ph.D.

to and achieve. Contrast these ideals with the symbol of the gambling casino. The very name conjures up reckless behavior, shady operations, and victims. We know that gambling is a regressive tax known for political corruption, addiction, and financial ruin. It symbolizes the worst images of the U. S.: the Wild West, winner take all, life after dark. Is this how we want the world to see us when they visit the United Nations? Does the U. S. think so little of the U.N. that it would put an enterprise long associated with loose morals, criminal elements, and chicanery next to the citadel of noble aims Eleanor Roosevelt helped build? Would we sully the world’s home for peace and cooperation with a symbol of greed and exploitation where

the house never loses? There are other problems with the site, of course. Casinos aim to attract lots of people. How will they travel to the site on First Avenue? By car, by bus? Where will they park? Buses are not permitted on the FDR. Will the surrounding streets be mired in traffic jams due to the increased congestion due to buses? These problems apply to many of the other proposed sites as well. What distinguishes this proposed site, and what should be honored, is its symbolism as the United States’ home for the world’s leaders to meet in peace and harmony. Robert A. Scott, PhD, is President Emeritus of Adelphi University and Ramapo College of New Jersey, and author of How University Boards Work, Johns Hopkins University Press.

SHINGING A LIGHT FOR CHARITY

Family and Children’s Association a needed resource

n this new column of L.I.G.H.T. FOR CHARITY™ (my acronym for ‘Long Island Giving Help Together For Charity’), I shine a light on a Long Island-based charity named the Family & Children’s Association (FCA). Based in Garden City, FCA is a 501(c)(3) organization that strives to make all of Long Island a better place to live, work and raise a family. FCA provides help and hope to Long Island’s most vulnerable families, children, seniors, individuals and communities. It does this by providing a wide range of impactful programs and services across many areas of important need. FCA’s operations include programs in the areas of (1) substance use and ad-

diction services; (2) mental health; (3) senior and adult services; (4) youth services; (5) patient support; (6) immigrant resources; (7) community outreach and support; and (8) residential / emergency shelter. Examples of FCA’s specific programs include: (1) a licensed outpatient program that provides counseling for those struggling with alcohol or drug use; (2) a “Children’s Mental Health & Wellness Division”, through which FCA offers a wide array of services designed to promote the health and wellness of children and their families; (3) a team of Certified Recovery Peer Advocates trained to meet with individuals and families within hospitals and the community who are struggling with

KAYLA DONNENFELD Shining a L.I.G.H.T. for Charity

substance use disorder; (4) helping senior citizens find ways to live with dignity, safety and independence, through offering Alzheimer’s caregiver support programs, elder abuse prevention services, senior in-home assistance and nursing home advocacy; (5) support for individuals with mental and/or behavioral health issues and their families, through therapy services, rehabilitation services and family peer support services provided through support groups, individualized action plans, home visits and other more tailored solutions; and (6) an Immigrant Resource Center with helpline counselors providing referrals to food pantries, immigration resources, case management and shortterm counseling, with services available

in both English and Spanish. All of these are only some examples of FCA’s services. It’s truly amazing to see how one organization provides so many valuable services across so many areas. All of these services help achieve the FCA’s official mission which is: “to protect and strengthen Long Island’s most vulnerable families, children, seniors, individuals and communities”, and official vision: “a Long Island where a legacy of optimal health, educational success, and economic security passes from one generation to the next.” To help support FCA, you can visit the FCA’s website at www.fcali.org. Kayla Donnenfeld, shining a LIGHT for Charity

READERS WRITE

The delusional Lone Ranger in Manorhaven

ou know the bi-annual mayoral election in Manorhaven is approaching. Letters and editorials (including this one) start to appear in local newspapers. Potential candidates start to emerge and show up at our monthly village meetings. That’s why I find Ken Kraft’s editorial in the Port Washington Times’ Jan. 12 issue intriguing but lacking some facts. One of the main focuses of Kraft’s editorial is the three-story apartment complex at 22 Sagamore Hill Drive on Manhasset Isle. This ground-breaking, history-making, over-sized and overheight real estate development is an eye sore to many of us residents on

Manhasset Isle, let alone its impact on the environment and the over crowding it creates once the project is completed. The variance was submitted by then owner Peter DeJana and was approved by former Mayor Jim Avena’s Board of Zoning Appeals. In his letter, Kraft praised the newly elected trustee Jeff Stone as the “Lone Ranger” who returns to Manorhaven (did he ever leave?). According to Kraft, Jeff Stone ran on the pledge to end the “chaos” in the village government. Ironically, Stone has been creating chaos and wreaking havoc in the village meetings without doing his home work. In the BOT meeting of October

2023, Stone got into a heated verbal altercation with Mayor Popeleski and the other three trustees by adamantly pushing his ideal candidate to be the chairman of Board of Zoning Appeals. That particular candidate who voted AYE on the aforementioned variance applications submitted by Peter DeJana. When I questioned Stone about his choice of the BZA chairman in the November BOT meeting, his answer was “the matter is under the rug” and there was no need for discussion. Is this the kind of “open and transparent government” Stone is pushing for? It seems to me that if Stone does not like your question, then let’s just dust it under the rug

and pretend it never happened. As for the development at 22 Sagamore Hill, I guess Stone has a different perspective as a real estate agent. In that respect he is indeed a “Lone Ranger.” Bear in mind that the monstrous building at 22 Sagamore Hill Drive is a collaboration between Jim Avena, his board and Peter DeJana. Avena’s BZA would have approved the original variance application of a five-story apartment building with an excessive height of 52 feet if it weren’t for the outcry from the residents. Even so, the final approval still allowed an outrageous 32foot, three-story building being erected,

far taller than the 26- foot building height limit in our village. With the candidates Avena and DeJana pushing for the upcoming election, our village is once again at the risk of over-building. If you can’t bear to see another 22 Sagamore Hill Drive being built, vote wisely, keep Mayor Popeleski in office and keep the greedy speculators in check! Richard Li Manhasset Isle Village of Manorhaven Letters Continued on Page 35

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

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Pilip endorsed by border patrol union BY C A M E RY N O A K ES Republican candidate in New York’s 3rd Congressional District special election Mazi Pilip has garnered the endorsement by the National Border Patrol Council, coming amidst her rejection of the Senate’s bipartisan border deal the council supported. “Tom Suozzi and Joe Biden recklessly opened our southern border without having any sort of immigration policy in place,” Pilip said. “Their reckless actions have not served the needs of the migrants and have adversely aﬀect-

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ed neighborhoods across our state and country. Joe Biden and Tom Suozzi created this crisis by establishing open borders and voting in support of funding for sanctuary cities. I will fight to secure our borders and give border agents and asylum processors the tools that they need to perform their jobs. Once again, I am so proud to receive their endorsement” Former Democratic Congressman Tom Suozzi and Republican Nassau County Legislator Pilip are facing off in a Feb. 13 special election, which could determine the balance of power in the House with Republicans clinging to a tiny majority. The endorsement was announced at a Wednesday press conference in front of a migrant “tent city” with the Republican candidate joined by President Brandon Judd and Vice President Hector Garza of the National Border Patrol Council. The National Border Patrol Council is a labor union representing United States Border Patrol agents and support staff. “The sanctuary city policies of Tom Suozzi and the Biden administration still encourage thousands of migrants to cross the border each day, and we need a representative in Congress who will prioritize securing the border, allocating the proper resources, and resuming construction of the wall, all things Mazi supports,” Judd said. “Mazi will be a powerful voice in Congress for securing our southern border, supporting and funding law enforcement, and putting the safety of local families first.” Continued on Page 36

Suozzi, Pilip differ on aid package for Israel BY C A M E RY N O A K ES The Israel-Hamas war has been a cornerstone in the campaigns for New York’s 3rd Congressional District special election, with both candidates expressing their support for aid to Israel. But a new deal in the Senate may divide the two candidates. Former Congressman Tom Suozzi and Nassau County District 10 Legislator Mazi Pilip are facing oﬀ in a Feb. 13 special election to ﬁnish out the term of Republican Rep. George Santos, who was expelled from Congress in December. On Thursday the Senate voted to advance a

separate $95 billion package that would deliver aid to Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan after Republicans voted down a compromise deal with the Democrats on border security and immigration that the GOP had demanded. The Senate immediately moved to salvage the aid portion of the defeated bill in the separate package. In a press conference Wednesday, joined by Democrats Rep. Ritchie Torres, Rep. Josh Gottheimer and Rep. Brad Schneider, Suozzi expressed his support for the stand-alone bill to provide aid to Israel. Continued on Page 47

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Tuskegee Airmen given long due recognition

On Saturday, Feb. 24 at 11:00 a.m., American Airpower Museum at Republic Airport in Farmingdale, will celebrate Black History Month by honoring the memory of the Tuskegee Airmen and the men of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, also known as the “Triple Nickels.” On February 18, 1944, 16 soldiers from the 555th graduated training to become the first Black paratroopers. On February 24th, AAM will dedicate a new exhibit honoring the “Triple Nickels.” At 11:00 a.m., AAM volunteer and Airborne Living Historian Nick Casseus, will give a talk about the Triple Nickels. He will unveil the Museum’s new exhibit, a life-like mannequin of a Triple Nickel “Smoke Jumper.” In 1944, the Triple Nickels became the first line of firefighting, parachuting from C-47s to attack blazes in the Pacific Northwest started by Japanese Incendiary Balloons. The Tuskegee Airmen were skilled African American pilots, whose success in their Mustang fighters, defending B-17’s against Nazi Luftwaffe Messerschmitt’s, persuaded President Harry S. Truman to desegregate the military after World War II. Reynard Burns, public relations officer for the Claude B. Govan TriState Tuskegee Airmen Chapter, will

give a presentation about the Airmen and answer audience questions. On Jan. 11, 2001, AAM dedicated one of the ﬁrst-ever permanent exhibits honoring the Tuskegee Airmen’s 332nd Fighter Group. Former Gov. George Pataki and a dozen surviving Tuskegee Airmen, including Roscoe Brown, Lee Archer and William Wheeler, gathered under a full-size replica of Archer’s P-51D Mustang Fighter for the dedication. This replica is still suspended from AAM’s Hangar 3 to this day. AAM also has a real Mustang, which ﬂies at the Jones Beach Air Show and other events. In honor of the Tuskegee Airmen 332nd Fighter Group, AAM will have two free screenings of the 2012 movie “Red Tails” with Cuba Gooding Jr. and Terrance Howard. Admission includes reserved seating. First screening is at 11:30 a.m., the second at 1:45 p.m. Refreshments and snacks are available. What: American Airpower Museum Celebrates Black History Month. Where: American Airpower Museum, 1230 New Highway, Republic Airport, Farmingdale, NY When: Saturday, February 24, 2024, 11:00 a.m. Why: AAM’s Mission is to honor ALL men and women who served in the U.S. Military.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AMERICAN AIRPOWER MUSEUM

Reynard Burns, Claude B. Govan Tri-State Tuskegee Airmen Chapter American Airpower Museum’s North American P-51D Mustang. How: Regular admission Adults $15 | Seniors/Veterans $12 | Children Ages 5-13 $10.

22 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

UUCSR to offer free meal, film

Adelphi hosts women’s conference

On Friday, Feb. 23, at 6:00 PM, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock will welcome members of the community to a lovingly prepared meal followed by a screening of the 2024 National Geographic documentary, “The Space Race,” by Diego Hurtado de Mendoza and Lisa Cortés, both at no charge. The film premieres on Feb. 13. The film is a captivating presentation that sheds light on the often-overlooked narratives of the pioneering Black pilots, engineers, and scientists who ascended to become astronauts in the early days of the space program. It’s a compelling story of their remarkable journey and contributions to the Space Race. A discussion following the screening will be led by Rev. Israel Buffardi who is committed to fostering community through sharing nourishing food, conversation, and connection in his role as associate minister for member and community engagement. Buffardi joined the congregation in August 2023. The evening is part of an ongoing Fourth Friday series. The dinner and film take place in the Social Hall at the UU Congregation at Shelter Rock,48 Shelter Rock Road in Manhasset, which is fully handicapped accessible. No charge registration is requested at uucsr. org/24Space or by contacting Sharyn Esposito (sesposito@uucsr.org or 516.472.2960). Complimentary professional childcare, as well as vegetarian menu options, will be available. Optional donations will be accepted onsite. The event will conclude at approximately 9:00 p.m.

On Saturday, March 9, more than 350 professionals, industry leaders, alumni, students, and community members will come together for Adelphi University’s premier women’s leadership conference. This powerful day of learning and networking is a great opportunity for community members across industries to make influential connections and have compelling discussions on how to thrive in today’s ever-changing world. “The modern job market is experiencing rapid change, but many sectors still don’t take advantage of the value women bring to the workplace,” said Adelphi University President Christine M. Riordan.“Our goal in hosting the Women’s Leadership Conference each year is to discuss how we can use education to break down barriers, inspire each other to strive for greatness and maximize our value in every career field.” This year’s conference titled”The Era of Embracing Change: Dare to be Extraordinary,”will offer several panels, discussions, and sessions with industry leaders on topics from building diverse, equitable workplaces to leading in the AI age. Participants will also have the opportunity to get professional headshots taken, consult with the newly added Career Support Hub, and take the TypeFocus Assessment. This year’s day-long event will feature a keynote address by Jennifer Hyman, co-founder and CEO of Rent the Runway, a company that is disrupting the trillion-dollar fashion industry and changing the way women get dressed through the Closet in the Cloud, the world’s first and largest shared designer closet. Hyman co-founded Rent the Runway in

2009 and its mission has been the same ever since: to power women to feel their best every day. The brand offers women the ability to subscribe, rent items a-la-carte and shop resale from hundreds of designer partners, driven by a two-sided discovery engine that connects deeply engaged customers and differentiated brand partners on a powerful platform built around its brand, data, logistics, and technology. Under Jennifer’s leadership, RTR made history as the first company to go public with a female founder/CEO, COO, and CFO. Hyman serves on the board of directors of The Estee Lauder Companies and Zalando and also is a Founding Member of the NYSE Board Advisory Council, and a Member of the Women. NYC Advisory Board and a Member of the Launch with GS Advisory Council for Goldman Sachs. She received her BA from Harvard University cum laude and MBA from Harvard Business School and lives in Brooklyn with her husband and daughters Aurora and Selene. Kendra Bracken-Ferguson is the founder and CEO of BrainTrust,will be this year’s lunchtime keynote speaker. BrainTrust Agency which includes social media, influencer marketing and brand development, BrainTrust Founders Studio a membership based platform providing an ecosystem of mentorship, education and community for Black Beauty and Wellness Founders and BrainTrust Fund 1, a venture fund dedicated to investing in Black Beauty and Wellness Founders. Bracken-Ferguson has the distinction of being one of only 100 Black women ever to have raised over $1 million in investment for

her first company. She has launched three companies herself and achieved over $1 million in revenue for each within the first two years or less. As someone who has mentored many Black founders over the years, Bracken-Ferguson started BrainTrust Founders Studio in October 2021 out of a need to scale access and resources to help Black beauty and wellness entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses. She is a transformative brand builder and visionary leader as well as the secret ingredient in guiding and monetizing more than 200 influencer-driven brands which have collectively generated more than $100 million in revenue. Attendees of the conference will also have the opportunity to give back by donating clothing items to Adelphi’s Career Closet, a new initiative available for students in need of professional work attire for interviews, conferences, and other professional opportunities. For more information on what items are still needed and any requirements for donationsview the flyer. The conference, co-hosted by Adelphi’s Advancement and External Relations, Division of Student Affairs and Student Government Association is open to the public as well as members of the Adelphi community including students, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and friends of the University. General admission for Adelphi’s Women’s Leadership Conference is $30 for in person (with an additional $20 for dinner) and $10 for online access. Adelphi students are free. To learn more and register, visitadelphi.edu/ womens-leadership.

UU Congregation at Shelter Rock Special Events

THE SPACE RACE Dinner and Film Led by Rev. Israel Buffardi

JAZZ IN THE AFTERNOON

with Danny Lipsitz and The Brass Tacks

Friday, February 23, 2024 Dinner: 6:00 PM Film: 7:00 PM

Sunday, February 25, 2024

No Charge Donations Accepted

Tickets in advance and at the door: $10/$20 maximum for families • 18 years old and under FREE

1 PM • UUCSR Worship Room

All Welcome!

48 Shelter Rock Rd, Manhasset, NY 11030 uucsr.org

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Summer camp provides children weeks of entertainment, camaraderie and opportunities to learn and grow. It also oﬀers a welcome respite for parents and other caregivers from having to provide recreation for kids during summer vacation, especially if those kids will be attending a sleepaway camp. Many children are emotionally ready to attend camp between the ages of eight and 10. Some need a little more time to mature. Parents may think they have plenty of time to investigate camps. Chances are if the weather has already warmed and summer vacation is on the horizon, then it's already too late to get kids into most summer camps. According to HealthyChildren.org, a division of the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is important to start researching summer camps as soon as possible. Many start booking as early as January or February of the current term year. Furthermore, popular programs ﬁll up quite fast. Even though summer weather may be furthest from one's mind in the middle of winter, this is the time when summer camp decisions must be made. Start by asking for recommenda-

Scie n u F

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p For

tions from others. The difficulty with this approach is that many people are very protective of their camp choices, especially if the programs are particularly popular. They may not be inclined to give up the secrets to their good thing, especially if that means kids will have to compete for limited spots. Parents also should conduct an internet search of camps in the area and look at online reviews and ratings. Find out if the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association. This will not guarantee a risk-free environment, but ACA accreditation is a better bet for providing a camp that is safe and nurturing. Price also may be a factor in the camp decision. Camps are not all priced the same, so it may require doing some math to figure out what is the best value. Location also can be a consideration. Having to drive a long distance away for camp can be a deterrent to some people. Rest assured that families who are a little late to the game may be able to find summer camp accommodations. But they may have to make some concessions.

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Summer camp season will be here before parents know it. While children anxiously await the last day of school, adults know that it can be challenging to keep kids occupied and mentally stimulated when they aren't in the classroom. Although it may be alright to enjoy a few days lounging around and playing video games, too much sedentary behavior is not good for anyone, even children. Families turn to summer camp to provide children with activities to occupy their time when school is not in session. Camps catering to a variety of interests are open to youngsters, so there's likely one out there to excite every child. Each year, more than 25 million children and adults take part in the camp experience, says the American Camp Association. Summer camp gives kids a chance to spread their wings and enjoy new adventures. When seeking camps, families can consider interests, proximity, cost, and other variables. Here are some of the different types of camps families can consider. Day camp Day camps are a popular choice. Day camps tend to be general recreation camps that offer an array of activities. Campers are dropped off (or bussed) in the morning, and arrive home early evening. These camps are readily accessible and run by various organizations. Some camps enable you to pay by the week, rather than committing to an entire season. Sleep-away camp Like the name implies, sleep-away camp hosts campers overnight, typically for several weeks. This may be children's first extended time away from

home, and there's bound to be a few nerves that spring up. Round-the-clock activities and chances to bond with their peers can help kids overcome fears of being away from home. Academic camp Academic camps focus their attention on various subjects, putting like-minded children together. Academic summer programs ensure children's brains stay active, helping students avoid that dreaded "summer slide." Some of these camps mimic a school day so they are familiar to kids. Academic focus may vary from general academia to specific subjects like STEM to astronomy to the arts. Scout camp Boys and girls participating in scouting programs often have the option to attend summer camp. During camp kids will have an opportunity to earn badges and advance their rank. Many scout districts have relationships with a specific scout campsite where troops from all over live and advance together for a week or so during the summer. Fitness and sports camps Fitness-minded campers or those who play particular sports can investigate camps that focus on fitness and sports performance. These may be more rigorous than other types of camps since they involve lots of physical activity. Wilderness preparation camp is another type of camp that may fit into this category. It will highlight survival training and help mold active hikers and campers. Summer camp options abound. It's only a matter of identifying a path for children and then seeking a camp that offers the desired program.

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Five reasons why summer camp is a good choice for kids Summer vacation offers students a respite from lessons and the routine of school. Children might once have eagerly awaited those final days of classes so they could lounge poolside, skip rocks across ponds and spend the long days of the season playing with friends. But many of today’s youngsters spend much of their summer vacations indoors playing with their digital devices. Perhaps that’s why one of the last vestiges of the classic summer vacation escape - summer camp - remains such a viable option for parents who want their children to get outdoors once the school year ends. Although kids needn’t be in camp all summer long, a week or two can benefit campers of all ages. The following are five reasons why summer camp might be the right fit this year. 1. Explore talents. Summer camps help young people explore their unique interests and talents. Under an organized, yet often easygoing, camp schedule, kids can dabble in sports, arts and crafts, leadership, community support, and so many other activities that may not be fully available to them elsewhere. 2. Physical activity: Lots of camps build their itineraries around physical activities that takes place outdoors. Campers may spend their time swimming, running, hiking, playing sports, climbing, and so much more. This can be a welcome

change for kids accustomed to living sedentary lifestyles. Regular physical activity has many health benefits and can set a foundation for healthy habits as an adult. 3. Gain confidence. Day and sleepaway camps offer campers the opportunity to get comfortable in their own skin. Camps can foster activities in self-esteem by removing the academic measures of success and fill in with noncompetitive opportunities to succeed. Campers learn independence, decision-making skills and the ability to thrive outside of the shadow of their parents, siblings or other students. 4. Try new things. Camp gives children the chance to try new things, whether that’s learning to cook, exploring new environments or embracing a new sport or leisure activity. Opening oneself up to new opportunities can build character and prove enlightening for children. 5. Make new friends. Camp is a great place to meet new people and make lifelong friends. Campers flood in from areas near and far. This provides kids with a chance to expand their social circles beyond their immediate neighborhoods and schools. Camps benefit children in a variety of ways. Lessons learned in camp can strengthen values, build confidence, develop coping mechanisms when adversity strikes, and enable campers to make lifelong friends.

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

As hours of sunlight increase, thoughts may turn to summer vacation. For many children, summer vacation wouldn’t be the same without camp. Adults may have their own fond memories of going to summer camp when they were children because of the opportunities it presented to be independent and meet new people. Campers often bond over shared experiences, whether they are planned activities or unexpected “disasters” like a rainstorm washing out a canoe trip. That is why so many parents choose to carry on the summer camp tradition when they have their own children. However, some kids may not be ready to jump right into the summer camp lifestyle. Such youngsters may need extra reassurance and support to make the most of their time at camp. The following are some tips for making summer camp an enjoyable experience.

Connect with fellow campers in advance If the camp has a social media presence, follow the camp’s posts and connect with other like-minded campers even before they arrive. Talking with others who share similar interests can help campers feel more comfortable about meeting up once they arrive at camp. Develop a rapport with camp counselors The saying “you only get one chance to make a ﬁrst impression” extends to campers meeting camp counselors. When campers interact with counselors for the ﬁrst time, they should be outgoing, polite and open to new ideas. Counselors will appreciate easy-going campers and could be good resources of useful information, such as how to score an extra dessert at mealtime.

Follow the safety rules While campers may spread their wings a bit at sumPlan ahead mer camp when not under the watchful eyes of parents, Families can visit the camp in advance and get a any mischief should not come at the expense of safety. lay of the land. Knowing what to expect in terms of Campers should stick to the safety protocol so that camp facilities and activities can assuage some anxiety. It is not memorable for the wrong reasons. also will help campers hone in on what to pack and what to expect over the summer. Change another camper’s experience A camper who recognizes a fellow camper is reserved Try many new activities and shy can invite that person to come sit with other Summer camp is about expanding boundaries and friends at meals or to participate in an activity. This interests. Campers should sign up for many activities, can help build a lasting friendship and make camp that including those that normally may be out of their much more enjoyable for someone in need. wheelhouse. A camper may be pleased to learn that Summer camp season is on the horizon and campers a new craft activity or a sports game piques his or can take several steps to foster memorable and fun exher interest. periences along the way.

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28 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

Many adults fondly recall their days at summer camp. The increase in households with two working parents has made it more important than ever to find a camp to accommodate youngsters who need to remain engaged and entertained throughout over summer vacation. That reality has led to more summer camp options, but it's not always so easy finding one that's the right fit for a child. No two children are the same and kids change quite a bit as they grow up. So a camp that worked for an older child or even one that accommodated a younger camper may not make the perfect fit this summer. With that in mind, parents can consider these tips to find the right summer camp for their children. · Ask around. Even if no two campers are the same, it can benefit parents to ask around when shopping for a summer camp. Summer camp spots are limited and it's not uncommon for competition for available spaces to develop, which can make it more difficult to gather information. However, ask neighbors whose children have outgrown summer camp if there's one they might recommend (or would not recommend). · Pursue a package deal. Though package deals might not result in lower rates, approaching a camp with the parents of your child's friend or friends may work in your favor. Kids undoubtedly will be more excited about camp if their friends will be there as well. Camp officials may see these quasi-package deals as beneficial and a quick and easy way to fill spots. · Ask kids how they want to spend summer. Specialized camps run the gamut from sports camps focusing on a particular sport to general outdoor recreation camps to camps that cater to

young musicians. More general camps offer a wide range of activities throughout the summer, and that might appeal to children less interested in specialized camps. Ask youngsters for their input before making a final decision. Involve kids in the search by showing them websites of prospective camps and asking them what they think of each one. If attending an in-person consultation, bring kids along so they can form their own impression. · Make sure the camp suits your schedule. Kids' preferences are not the only opinions to consider. In households with two working parents, moms and dads must find a camp that aligns with their work schedule. Many camps offer half-day sessions and/or full-day sessions, but some offer just one or the other. If parents need full-day sessions, they might need to begin their search early to ensure they can secure a spot before they fill up. · Identify what you can afford. Camp costs vary significantly, so parents should identify how much they can afford before they begin their search. Doing so may eliminate various camps right off the bat, saving parents precious time as they try to find a camp for their children before spots fill up. Many towns offer local camps at schools, and these may be an affordable option. Parents also should know that many camps allow them to pick certain weeks or days of the week a child will attend rather than insisting kids attend camp for the duration of the summer. Summer camp season is right around the corner. Parents and children can work together to identify a camp that will ensure this summer is filled with fun.

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58 to 63: The percentage of female staff Summer camp is a rite of passage for many children. Each year, campers of all ages head members at overnight and day camps, respecoff to nearby recreation centers or travel to tively. - American Camp Association rural areas to claim their cabins and bunks. 200 to 300: The average number of campHere’s a deep look at some of the statistics ers served each session. - CampMinder surrounding summer camps. 7 in 10: The number of camps that run 10 1,467: The number of day camps in the or more different programs. - CampMinder United States run by the YMCA. - YMCA 79: The percentage of camps that maintain $3.91 billion: The peak market size of the summer camp sector in the United States in a screen-free environment. - CampMinder 2019, before stay-at-home-restrictions affected statistics in subsequent years. -Statista 14 million: The average number of American summer camp registrants each year. American Camp Association

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1 week: The most popular session length for summer camp, although the majority of independent camp operators oﬀer four-, sixand eight-week sessions. - American Camp Association

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50: The percentage of respondents whose camps charge $1,000 or more per session, with most programs costing between $1,000 and $1,500. - CampMinder

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SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM Harbor Child Care @ Shelter Rock Road 272 Shelter Rock Road, Roslyn NY 11576

• The Pre-K Summer Enrichment Program will be held at our new location (address above) from July 1, 2024 – August 23, 2024 (3-4-and 5-year-olds)

• Camp will take place for 8 weeks. • Hours are 8:45 am - 2:45 pm • Includes Breakfast, Lunch, and Snack. • Fun Trips • Daily activities

R ates $150 one-time non-refundable registration fee 7/8 weeks- $250/week 5/6 weeks-$ 300/week 4/5 weeks- $350/week • Payment must be made in full prior to the start of camp. Please contact Michele Russell at mrussell@harborchildcare.org for more information.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

2 Great Neck temples hosting comedy night Laugh out loud with top comedians during Great Neck’s Comedy Night, hosted by Temple Beth-El and Temple Israel, at Temple Beth-El on Saturday, March 9. Enjoy an open bar, delicious hors d’ouvres and decadent desserts, along with the hilarity of comedians Daniel Tirado, Alexandra McHale and Steven Scott. Tirado has entertained in comedy specials on Kevin Hart’s LOL Network, Netﬂix and HBO. McHale has been a guest on The Tonight Show, The Late Late Show and Comedy Central. Scott has cracked up audiences on major television networks, including NBC, CBS and Comedy Central, as well as on the show America’s Got Talent. With Temple Beth-El’s own Stan Levine returning as master of ceremonies, the evening

will surely offer nonstop laughter. The event will kick off with havdalah and cocktails at 7:30 p.m., followed by an 8:30 p.m. showtime. Various ticket types, from individual seats to partial or fully reserved upfront tables are available. Prices begin at $65 for general admission. A reserved front table for eight including 100 raffle tickets costs $600. On event day, admission will cost $80 each, pending availability. Register by Feb. 16 to save $15 a ticket with an early-bird discount. Purchase tickets online at www.greatneckcomedy.com. Temple Beth-El, the peninsula’s oldest synagogue, serving the community for more than 95 years, is located at 5 Old Mill Road in Great Neck. Learn more by visiting www.tbegreatneck. org, calling 516-487-0900 or emailing info@ tbegreatneck.org.

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32 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

Fri 2/16

Featured

Chris Devine Acoustic Live at Cebollines Mexi‐ can Grill Lindenhurst

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Erth's Dinosaur Zoo Live

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You’ll observe, meet and interact with an eye-popping collection of amazing lifelike dinosaurs and other creatures in a theatrical performance that thrills and en‐ tertains kids while stimulating their imaginations in ways that forever connect them to their world. Brought to life by a team of skilled puppeteers, DINOSAUR ZOO is so extraordinarily real you may want to run and hide - but don’t!

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Cuthbert Live: Solo at Insieme Wines @ 7pm Insieme Wines & Tasting Room, 3333 Lawson Blvd, Oceanside

Jurassic Quest | Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum | Uniondale, NY - 861

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Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turn‐ pike, Uniondale

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@ 10am Feb 17th - Feb 25th Arthur Erb Join us for a week of "Escape @ 8pm Room" style puzzles, UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead brainteasers, and foren‐ Turnpike, Belmont Park //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// sic fun for the whole family. Free with mu‐ Krush The Band NY Brass Queens @ 10pm seum entry, closed on @ 8pm Nutty Irishman, 323 Main St, 2/21. 1450 Tanglewood The Paramount, 370 Farmingdale Rd, 1450 Tanglewood New York Ave, Hunting‐ //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Road, Rockville Centre. ton marketing@cstl.org, The Toby Tobias Ensem‐ 516-764-0045 Megan Euell Plein Air in ble at Swing the Teapot the Studio The 90's Band @ 8pm

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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents The Greatest Show On Earth

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Refugee: The Ultimate Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers Trib‐ ute Band: Refugeethe Tom Petty Experience returns to The Warehouse!

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@ 6pm Boxing Presents: On Friday, February 23, Rockin' Fights 46 2024, at 6:00 PM, the @ 12:30pm @ 7:30pm / $50-$200 Unitarian Universalist Join the Mid Island Y JCC and a The Paramount, 370 New York host of guest presenters for in‐ Ave, Huntington Congregation at Shelter ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// teresting and relevant lectures Rock will welcome and discussions related to Ju‐ members of the com‐ @ 10am / $50 @ 7pm Swing the Teapot, 6 Verbena daism and Jewish Culture. Midmunity to a lovingly The Long Island Academy of Plattduetsche Park, 1132 Ave, Floral Park Island Y JCC, 45 Manetto Hill Featured prepared meal fol‐ Fine Art, 14 Glen Street, SUITE Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Road, Plainview lowed by a screening 305, Glen Cove. 516-590-4324 Square //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Brandon "Taz" Nieder‐ //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// of the 2024. Unitarian //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// New York City Ballet auer: Taz and Friends Universalist Congrega‐ @ 7:30pm @ 8pm tion at Shelter Rock David H. Koch Theater, 63rd Landmark on Main Street, 232 (UUCSR), 48 Shelter Street, New York City Main St, Port Washington Rock Road, Manhasset. //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// sesposito@uucsr.org, 516-472-2960 Audra McDonald Phil Smith @ 8pm / $60 @ 7pm Harlem Globetrotters Audra McDonald in Craft Kitchen & Tap House 2024 World Tour Featured concert. Tilles Center, Huntington, 363 New York Ave, presented by Jersey LIU Post College, 720 Huntington Mike's Subs ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////Northern Boulevard, @ 1pm / $40-$195 Greenvale PWHL: New York V Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Montreal Ave, Brooklyn //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// @ 7pm / $19.50-$51.50 Atlanta Rhythm Section Jewish Learning Series

Sat 2/17

Sun 2/18

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Wed 2/21

@ 8pm Boulton Center For The Per‐ forming Arts, 37 W Main St, Bay //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Shore UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Belmont Park - Long Island

Thu 2/22

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

St. John's V Seton Hall Men's Basketball

Long Island Nets Vs. Mexico City Capitanes

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

David Bennett Cohen LIVE!

Calendar information is pro‐ vided by event organizers. All events are subject to change @ 5pm / $9-$244 @ 6pm / $12-$102 @ 7:30pm or cancellation. This publica‐ UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Nassau Veterans Memorial Col‐ Port Washington Public tion is not responsible for the Turnpike, Belmont Park - Long iseum, 1255 Hempstead Turn‐ Library, 1 Library Dr, accuracy of the information Island pike, Uniondale contained in this calendar. Port Washington //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

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

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

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34 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

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READERS WRITE

N.Y. medical community applauds Hochul on patient access

ew York’s medical community applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul for her commitment to protecting patient access to New York’s healthcare system. Physicians throughout the state – from OBGYNs to surgeons to cardiologists – agree with Gov. Hochul’s decision to veto well-intended but ultimately extremely detrimental legislation that would have exponentially expanded liability damages in wrongful death actions. Her measured and pragmatic approach to this issue not only deserves praise, but it reflects a

deep understanding of the state’s healthcare infrastructure and the need for collaboration when it comes to reform in this area of law. The medical community understands the profound pain and loss experienced by families grappling with a death caused by the negligence of others. Our hearts go out to these grieving families, and we affirm our dedication to providing compassionate, high-quality care for each and every New Yorker – from Buffalo to Montauk. Unfortunately, the bill proposed by the Legislature would

have had significant adverse unintended consequences for all New Yorkers, including community-based doctors and hospitals providing needed care throughout the Empire State. It would have drastically raised the liability insurance costs for every physician, which are already the highest in the nation. This increase would have been

particularly detrimental to doctors serving in underserved communities, further widening the healthcare disparity gap. Hochul’s veto message rightly states that “every human life is valuable and should be recognized as such in our laws and in our judicial system.” But modernizing the law should not mean passing a mea-

United States is failing its students

f Horace Mann walked the halls of my school or any other school in the United States,he would be appalled. As the founder of American education, he would expect us students to engage in tense philosophical and constructive debates about history, science and mathematics. To be honest, if any student tried, everyone else would be thinking that’s not on the test. Obviously we pupils aren’t to blame, Mann is. The previously mentioned scenario is just one indicator of Mann’s failed dreams. The system of enriched learning he wanted to bestow upon the young republic, to generate a vast skilled assembly of citizens, morphed into something entirely different. Quoting from Mann himself, it seems he thought he was capable of creating the Eden of education. 1. the public should no longer remain ignorant; 2. that such education should be paid for, controlled, and sustained by an interested public; 3. that this education will be best provided in schools that embrace children from a varietyof backgrounds; 4. that this education must be non-sectarian; 5. that this education must be taught using the tenets of a free society; and 6. that education should be provided by well-trained, professional teachers. Such principles would be strenuous to apply to the young republic, thus it’s understandable that Mann sought to emulate the education system of the Prussian Empire, an authoritative state and the pioneer of state compulsory education. It’s no wonder why our classrooms follow their militaristic model, where school is a factory and curriculum is pumped into us students. By the time Mann died, he was president of Antioch College, a private school for wealthy students. How ironic. Mann’s story reminds us two things: the pioneer isn’t always right, and what happens when we “try” different education models. I’m sure I’m not the only one concerned that our education system is built on the one of a diminished 19th-century authoritative empire. I must reiterate the following. Education can not, under any circumstances, be treated as a social experiment filled with theorized models. I urge all to keep in mind that its effects are irreversible and prolonged for decades. To give a proper assessment of Mann’s vision, let’s see our performance in PISA (the Programme for International Student Assessment) which is an education index that measures students’ scholastic performance over a 15-year period, among OECD countries (Countries which make up 90% of the world’s economy). Out of 85 countries, the United States ranks 18th. Eighteen out of 85 seems great, but it seems disappointing for the richest country in the world, along with having access to some of the most educational resources. debunk the fallacy that education quality “automatically” improves, as more money is poured in. To give some context, the United States spends on average up to $15,000 dollars per student, with cities such as New York City spending about $38,000. Canada, which ranks 8th on PISA, spent about $11,000 Canadian dollars (about $8,100 converted to USD) on average per student. What differentiates Canada’s education system from ours, is their method used. Canada utilizes a progressive education system, where the student uses their senses to make deductions and interact with the curriculum.

This activates long-term interest among students unlike severe detachment, as shown in the previously mentioned scenario. But despite all this, the biggest elephant in the room ensues in America’s education. How meritless it is. My own experience with the so-called “meritocracy” in our K-12 schooling, can be explained by comparing two students, student A and student B. Student A was born into a well-off family, whose parents make six figures a year. In addition, student A enjoys their time by partying and drinking with friends. Student A doesn’t have an interest in academia or learning, but rather in a 4.0 GPA, and a high SAT score. It’s why Student A has access to tutors and connections for their “extracurriculars,” ultimately gets them into their dream school. Now consider student B, someone raised from a low socioeconomic background along with living on reduced lunch. Obviously, student B doesn’t have as many doors open as student A. This is practically the reality in many economically segregated areas, such as Long Island, where I’m from. Miguel Cardona, the current secretary of education, commented on the economic disparity between students. “We have students who are hungry, you have students who are housing insecure, you have students who struggle from mental health needs.” To be honest I’ve got immense faith in Cardona, considering how he was chosen as secretary for being an actual educator, unlike Trump’s choice. It’s simple to understand what drives disinterest among students because education in the U.S. appears more like a business venture than an attempt at scholastic articulation. From what I’ve seen, when more motivation is geared towards getting that 4.0 GPA or that 1580 SAT, less is put towards actually learning. The tragedy of Horace Mann’s “Great Education” vision, points to the illusion of a pure meritocracy where students of all backgrounds will thrive according to their specific talent. While I concede these utopian qualities are impossible to fully achieve, it is not impossible to work towards them. I’m not pessimistic, though. I can see the glass is half full with initiatives taken by universities such as affirmative action. As a high school senior, who was born in Bush’s No Child Left Behind Act, to Barack Obama’s Common Core initiative, I wholeheartedly say that I am disappointed with our federal government. I am disappointed in President Bush, for an ineffectively reforming education with the No Child Left Behind Act, which sought to boost improvement only by punishing schools that weren’t near impossible standards. I am disappointed in President Obama for creating an education initiative, Common Core, which has shown no significant improvement, all the while leading to confusion among parents and teachers and draining $15.8 billion. I am disappointed in President Trump for selecting the secretary of the department of education, to be Betsy Devos, most likely because she was chair of the Michigan Republican party. President Biden I urge you to take more measures. As a child of educators, any reform starts by working with those who inspire us students. Please don’t be numb like your predecessors Amin Daneshmandnia Roslyn High School student

sure unlike any other statute in the country, especially one that poses risks to the financial stability of our medical clinics and hospitals – and especially those serving our most vulnerable populations. As we move forward, the Medical Society of the State of New York stands ready to work with Gov. Hochul and the legislature to develop a balanced measure that provides additional remedies for grieving families, while also safeguarding the ability of our healthcare workers to deliver exceptional care without the burden of crippling new in-

surance costs. We must find a balance. Our goal is to ensure that New York continues to attract and retain skilled physicians, maintaining our reputation for worldclass healthcare. We are grateful to Gov. Hochul for her dedication to a balanced approach that protects the healthcare needs of every New Yorker. We look forward to collaborating and finding a solution that benefits all. Dr. Paul A. Pipia President

Medical Society of the State of New York

Jonah talks about the whale, a Midrashic story Imagine being swallowed by an immense whale at the edge of the known world, traveling in the dark, plunging into the depths, careening in fact into the icy emptiness and the bliss of the watery under. Imagine it opens its mouth with you inside and puts your fire out. I prefer to ride around the gentle surface like a waltz over the waves, not be lashed to the helm, in no hurry to stop or escape, and know where I’m going, but that’s not how things really are. Any questions? Silence… I know what’s bothering you. You want to set me straight. You want me to say these are alternate facts, that I imagined this, or even lied about the whale. But it’s not possible, of course. Only in a cartoon. One day, hopefully, out of the blue this will hit you: Where ignorance is bliss, ‘Tis foolish to be wise. Let’s move on to another story, the sanity vs vanity of Adam and Eve. Continue with your lessons. Stephen Cipot Garden City Park

HYPER-LOCAL NEWS ANYTIME. ANYWHERE THEISLAND360.COM

36 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

READERS WRITE

Columnist George Marlin is health food for the mind

llow me to add to the always insightful George J. Marlin’s Feb. 9 column “From The Right: The MTA Mess.” No wonder the MTA faces a multibillion-dollar financial shortfall, $48 billion in long-term debt and a history of expensive system expansion projects. Project cost containment along with fast tracking procurements and contract change orders for the MTA is easier said than done due to other significant obstacles. MTA union work rules sometimes prevent contracting out work to the private sector. Third party private contractors require MTA NYC Transit, Long Island and Metro North Rail Roads to provide both supervision and protection when they work on or adjacent to active right-of-way track. Sometimes there are excessive numbers of MTA supervisory or employees assigned, adding to costs. “Buy America” requirements are one of many rules for receipt of federal funding. This impacts the MTA’s ability get the best bang for the buck, when spend-

ing $1.8 billion in direct annual federal formula grant funds and billions more in competitive discretionary, Capital Investment New Starts and Hurricane Sandy relief and resiliency dollars under the MTA’s $32 billion 2015 — 2019 and $51 billion 2020 — 2024 Five Year Capital Programs. The MTA has its own “Arts in Transit” 1% expenditure requirement. Gov. Hochul has the “New York Buy America Act” as well. The FTA “Buy America” requirements continue to play a role in the ability of the MTA to both speed up capital projects and contain cost growth. Second is the Davis Bacon requirement of paying prevailing wages. Third is the U.S. Cargo preference requirement for private companies to use only American vessels when shipping product from abroad. Finally, prime contractors sometimes have problems finding qualified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise subcontractors with specialized skills to meet required federal and state civil rights goals. Anyone in the transit industry knowsthat compliance with federal Buy

America rules and regulations frequently adds both time and cost to a project. The $11.6 billion East Side Access to Grand Central Madison, $4.5 billion Second Avenue Subway Phase One, $7.7 billion Second Avenue Subway Phase 2 and $5.5 billion Brooklyn to Queens Light Rail Connector are good examples of how federal requirements add to costs. How common is the past LIRR $11.6 billion East Side Access to Grand Central Madison incident of excessive phantom employees on the project payroll? The MTA seldom likes to acknowledge examples of waste, fraud and abuse. A simple audit was performed 13 years ago by an accountant who reviewed a budget for train platforms being constructed under Grant Central Terminal. The accountant found that funding was provided under the project budget to pay for 900 workers, but could only find paper work to justify 700 workers. No one on the project could explain what tasks their workers performed. These 200 potential phantom employees were paid $1,000 per day. They were subsequently

removed from the payroll. No one ever determined how long they were on the payroll or how much they were paid. There is no evidence that these lost dollars were ever recovered. The MTA has consistently failed to include more flexible work assignments in union contracts. The option to contract work to the private sector when feasible or hiring part-time employees must be more readily available as appropriate without sacrificing the safety and system reliability that riders count on. MTA employees need to increase contributions toward medical insurance and retirement pensions as other government, private sector employees, taxpayers and commuters do. Real reform for MTA employee pensions would be calculated based on the final year’s base and not inflated by overtime. Unions that benefit by some of these rules and regulations make campaign contributions, endorsements, mailings, man phone banks and provide volunteers for “get out the vote” operations to candidates running for public office.

Elected officials will seldom if ever take the side of commuters and taxpayers when it comes to supporting any reforms to the capital program. Notice that at every ground-breaking ceremony for capital projects politicians always have a large contingent of union employees present. Elected officials always promise that they are delivering good union-paying jobs. They never talk about reform to work rules that might save the MTA money and time. Commuters, taxpayers, and transit advocates deserve better than the current status quo. Mr. Marlin would make a great addition to the MTA Board in representing our interests. 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.

Blank Slate’s 40 Under 40 honors rising stars Continued from Page 6 “Tonight we are celebrating a diverse and talented and committed group of people who will help lead Nassau County in the future if they’re not doing that already,” Blank Slate Media Publisher Steven Blank. The event was emceed by Antoinette Biordi, reporter and anchor for News 12 Long Island, who was also among the honoree pool. Sikes said the honorees exemplified a diversity of expertise, occupations and accomplishments, calling the group of 40 an “immensely talented”

collection of young professionals. While she said they have already made strides in their careers, it doesn’t stop there. “Long Island is an amazing place to live and work,” Sikes said. “But Long Island is not without our challenges. So who is going to ensure that Long Island has the momentum to keep moving in a positive direction? You. You are the leaders of today. Not tomorrow, but right now.” Sikes offered the group one piece of advice:“By taking the time to think about our focus, we can become more

effective at our jobs, more dynamic professionals and continue our momentum.” Lawrence Lessing, chief operating officer for Lessing’s Hospitality Group, said receiving the award was an honor and he found it humbling to be surrounded by so many other accomplished young professionals, Being under 40, Lessing said, is a dynamic moment in which you’re celebrating your accomplishments while still seeking ways to continue climbing the ladder and acquire more learning. “It’s definitely an age where you’re

working hard,” Lessing said. “It’s a nice boost to get an award and reenergize.” Jacob Dixon, founder and CEO of Choice For All – a nonprofit advocating for equity and justice in education, health and income for children and families – expressed a similar sentiment to Lessing’s, agreeing that the award is a reminder of past accomplishments at a time of looking forward to make progress. “I believe in the power of intergenerational leadership,” Dixon said. “So I think it’s important to recognize not

just the legends who have done this work for a number of years but also the people who are up and coming.” A full list of the 40 honorees can be found at https://theisland360. com/40-under-40/. The event was sponsored by Lessing’s Hospitality Group, Webster Bank, MMP Capital, Northwell Health, Choice for All, NYU Langone Health, Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, and Harmony Health Care Long Island. The photo booth was sponsored by Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP.

Pilip endorsed by union after denouncing border deal Continued from Page 20 Pilip’s campaign said the endorsement is a testament to her being the sole candidate that has historically been pro-law enforcement and “denounced the open borders and sanctuary city policies of Tom Suozzi and Joe Biden that have resulted in this national crisis.” Suozzi said he was not surprised by the endorsement, calling the union one of former president Donald Trump’s “most reliable partners.” He said despite Pilip and the union disagreeing on the border deal, the endorsement is a result of the union seeking to endorse a Trump-aligned candidate. “It’s not surprising, but it points to a broken system,” Suozzi said. Suozzi, who has also touted his

pro-law enforcement stance, called Pilip’s press conference “bizarre” notably due to the union’s support for the border deal and Pilip’s denouncement of it. “In the final days of this race, Mazi Pilip is showing her true colors,” Suozzi said. “After saying absolutely nothing of substance for the past two months, Pilip is now against the bipartisan compromise that offers our best chance at securing the border in forty years. She’s endorsing chaos at the border because she believes it will help her and Donald Trump politically.” The endorsement came days after a bipartisan national security bill was unveiled in the Senate, which provided a historical toughening of the country’s southern border while

also providing aid to Ukraine and Israel. Pilip joined fellow Republicans in denouncing the border deal, calling it a “nonstarter” that would legalize “the invasion currently happening at our southern border.” “I do not support what amounts to the legalization of the invasion of our country,” Pilip said. Suozzi called Pilip’s use of the word “invasion” to describe the crisis dangerous. “She’s doing it because she’s consistently beholden to the national Republicans and like them she’s only interested in playing politics with people’s lives instead of working to solve problems,” Suozzi said. Suozzi called Pilip’s stance an appeasement to GOP extremists as

the U.S. Senate prepared to take a vote that killed the measure. “I have made it clear that I will do anything and work with anyone to put forth bipartisan solutions to fix our border in order to get results for the people of Nassau County and Queens,” Suozzi said. “People are tired of this political theater from both parties, and they want results.” Pilip criticized the cost of the migrant crisis, quoting New York City Mayor Eric Adams who said it may cost $12 billion in taxpayer money through 2025. While Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2025 budget proposes $2.4 billion for migrant services, Pilip has also criticized this for taking away funding in other areas.

This has specifically been compared to the state’s proposed school aid, which Pilip and other Long Island Republicans have denounced in decreasing school funding through the proposed elimination of foundation aid. Despite drops in foundation aid for some schools, North Shore schools are predominantly seeing increases in their state aid. Early voting for New York’s 3rd Congressional District has begun, with a full list of polling locations able to be found on the county Board of Election websites, and will continue through Feb. 11. Voting will resume on Feb. 13, election day, with polling locations also able to be found on the Board of Election website.

For the latest news, visit us at w w w.theisland360.com

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

Business&RealEstate

Finding summer rental for mystery man This is the second part of the column on my 2015 search as a Nassau County Realtor for a summer rental for a mystery client who wanted what at first appeared to be the impossible — a tub in the master bathroom. We kept looking high and low for that special place to call home for our well-heeled client and nothing was going to stop me. In the meantime, our MLS auto-prospect search would identify any new listings regularly that would meet the criteria and would immediately send them out to the associate. In addition, my assistant Gloria literally made a multitude of calls to other offices, brokers, associate brokers, and agents over three weeks to see if they had any pocket listings that they would consider sharing that were not listed on the MLS system. We kept striking out every day and we began to feel uncertain if we would hit the home run that we were looking for. Then one night I made some additional calls to agents on the North Shore. I spoke to one agent who had a friend she knew wanted to go out to the Hamptons for August and said that she would approach her with the idea of renting their home. I conveyed to her the list of “must haves” that were necessary. She wasn’t sure about the tub, but everything else was checked off on our

list. She called me back the next day and we made an appointment for a Friday showing. I was so ecstatic that this just might be the winner that we were searching for. In my haste, I had failed to verify whether there was a tub in the owner’s ensuite bathroom but figured may be we would get lucky. Perhaps I purposely forgot to ask as I didn’t want to know. Friday came and we slowly rolled up to the home. The home had such a dramatic, magnificent and stunning contemporary look. We began to walk around and found the perfect pool, tennis court, and walk to the beach and even a possibility for a helicopter landing on the beach. I told his representative that I wasn’t sure if the community would allow it, but I would find out. So far he seemed quite pleased with everything on the outside. We walked inside and viewed the main floor, huge eat-in kitchen, family room, expansive lower level, all the additional rooms and then went upstairs to take a look at the owner’s suite. We then slowly made our entrance into the bedroom and then headed to the bathroom and, my luck, no tub! My heart sank and I began to have a very sad feeling that this one wouldn’t work. But to my surprise, the associate said, “let me make a call.” This gave me

PHILIP A. RAICES Real Estate Watch

some hope that maybe there was a possibility this could be the one because time was passing and we were running out of options to meet the client’s stringent requirements. I heard his rep conversing with a lady as he walked downstairs, but I waited upstairs as I wanted to provide him absolute privacy. I believe he was using Skype (no Zoom at that time) to show her around the home. Then he came back upstairs to view all the rooms and bathrooms. While speaking to her and entering the ensuite bathroom, he showed her that there was no tub in the owner’s suite. I waited

with bated breath and anticipation and then I overheard her saying: “I want this home. I will tell Michael, so do what you need to do!” He hung up and then we went outside to discuss further details. I was quite shocked when he made an offer of $45,000, which was much more than his original budget. I was surprised and happy that the tub became a non-issue and was no longer a deal breaker. Our offer was provided to the other party and was accepted. I still had no idea who I was dealing with, but only knew that the client’s name was “Michael.” The offer was accepted and he then proceeded to explain to me who his client was and why he couldn’t let me know the identity of the mysterious renter in advance until I found the home that they would be leasing for a month. More important to me was the reason why his client had to have a tub, which now was no longer an issue. He told me it was his sister Shakira, who he was talking with while walking around the home showing and conveying information to her. She fell in love with the home as well as the outside accouterments that were exactly what they were looking for. Finally, he told me that her husband was Sir Michael Caine (his brother-inlaw), the famous English actor, whom I

had seen in the Broadway show “Sleuth” back in high school, as well as Alfred in the Batman movie, “Tenet” and “Inception” and many other films. I was ecstatic with joy and felt redeemed that I had successfully found the home that they needed and wanted. The leases were executed by both parties and they were able to move in on Aug. 1, 2015. I found out that their daughter and her children were going to be staying at the home. They also rented a penthouse in Manhattan. He was contracted to work on some project that was a secret and I never found out what it was. During the last few days of their stay, I was invited over to say hello. I had purchased a gorgeous vase as a thank you for doing business with me and working with Karim, Shakira’s brother. It was a pleasure and challenge that enabled me to succeed as I never for one moment was going to give up on the search for their special place to call home while in the States. I found out later that my vase was taken back to London and was placed in their living room, which put a smile on my face. P.S. The reason that Sir Michael Caine wanted to have a tub in the master bedroom’s ensuite bathroom is that it would enable him to read his London daily papers and sip his glass of wine!

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The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Recent Real Estate Sales in

14 Pinetree Lane, Roslyn Heights

15 Circle Lane, East Hills

5 bd, 3 ba, 2,107 sqft, Sold On: 11/15/23, Sold Price: $220,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: Mineola

3 bd, 3 ba, Sold On: 11/30/23, Sold Price: $1,023,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: Roslyn

97 Shepherd Lane, Roslyn Heights

30 High Street, Roslyn Heights

6 bd, 7 ba, Sold On: 11/16/23, Sold Price: $3,050,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: East Williston

3 bd, 2 ba, 1,559 sqft, Sold On: 11/30/23, Sold Price: $650,000 Type: Single Family, Schools: Roslyn

Editor’s note: Homes shown here were recently sold in Roslyn 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 Roslyn and are believed by Blank Slate Media to be of interest to our readers.

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42 The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

PHOTOS BY CAMERYN OAKES

Supporters of Tom Suozzi cheer at his election night victory party upon hearing the news of Mazi Pilip, the Republican candidate, conceding in the race.

SUOZZI DEFEATS MAZI Continued from Page 1 called Pilip “a very foolish” woman for not seeking his endorsement on social media. Trump claimed MAGA voters did not turn out for Pilip because she did not show him respect and that Suozzi “can easily be beaten.” Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, Trump’s opponent in the Republican primaries, blamed Trump for the loss, repeating her argument that Trump’s presence hurt the chances of GOP candidates. Suozzi faced off against Republican Nassau County District 10 Legislator Mazi Pilip, who conceded in the race before votes were finalized. While Suozzi won by a 23% margin in Queens, the race came closer between the two candidates in Nassau County. According to the New York City Board of Elections’ unofficial election night results, Suozzi won with 61.38%, or 15,205 total votes in Queens. Pilip received 38.33%, or 9,495 total votes. In Nassau County, Suozzi secured 52.46% of the votes, or 76,133 in total. Pilip garnered 47.37% of the votes, or 68,734 total votes, according to the Nassau County Board of Elections. Overall, Suozzi secured his Congressional win Tuesday night with 53.7% of the total votes versus Pilip’s 45.99%, according to the New York State’s Board of Elections. As of Wednesday morning all of the election districts had been counted. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman spoke in support of Pilip before the election was called, saying he wasn’t concerned about voter turnout since numbers were improving throughout the day. “Republicans like to vote on Elec-

tion Day, Democrats like early voting,” he said. When asked about how George Santos might impact voters, Blakeman described Santos as a “complete nonfactor” and “certainly not important” for voters in the 3rd Congressional District in New York. Suozzi’s win comes months after Republicans swept elections in Nassau County and throughout Long Island in November. “We’ve had some rough times,

we’ve had some bumps,” Jacobs said. “But, boy, tonight’s a great one.” The congressional district now flips from Republican to Democrat as Suozzi is set to take over his former post previously held by the ousted Santos. Suozzi’s election to the House will impact its partisanship, shrinking the majority Republicans hold by bringing it to a 219-213 split. Santos was expelled from Congress on Dec. 1 after the House of Representatives voted him out of office after being subject to scrutiny

and ethics probes for lying to voters about himself. He now faces a federal indictment of 23 counts of wire fraud, money laundering and theft of public funds and was amid plea negotiations in December. In the wake of Santos’ expulsion ensued a special election to replace him, constituting a two-month campaign race before voters headed to the polls Tuesday night. Suozzi, who describes himself as a middle-of-the-road Democrat, represented the 3rd Congressional District

PHOTO BY CAMERYN OAKES

Suozzi leans into the crowd at his election night event to take selfies with his supporters after giving his victory speech.

over three terms in the House from January 2017 to January 2023. He previously served as the Nassau County executive from 2002-2009 and the mayor of Glen Cove from 1994-2001 – the start of his political career. His 10-point plan includes addressing inflation and rising prices, tackling the influx of migrants by securing the border and streamlining processing, protecting the environment and bolstering public safety. Suozzi ran on a campaign of working across party lines to seek solutions for the district’s constituents, advocating against the political divide present in politics today. “So now, we have to carry the message of this campaign to the United States Congress and across our entire country,” Suozzi said. “It’s time to move beyond the petty partisan bickering and the finger-pointing. It’s time to focus on how to solve the problems.” The special election campaign was riddled with conflict between the two candidates, with a series of political ads focused on attacking their competitor and a penultimate debate that was filled with a slew of jabs. The campaign brought an emphasis on transparency by the Democrat, who said it stems from being in a “post-Santos world.” This was a main argument amid Pilip’s refusal to debate with Suozzi, excluding a singular one days before Election Day, and her not making herself available to the local press and civic associations. Suozzi left one message to the Republicans in Congress Tuesday night: “Stop running around for Trump and start running the country.” “Either get on board or get out of the way,” Suozzi said.

The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Roslyn sees little change in enrollment Continued from Page 1 The $825 million proposed increase from budget to budget encompasses a $507 million rise for Foundation Aid – the state’s main education operating aid formula that is based on equity. The remaining $318 million increase is attributed to all other school aid programs. The state’s foundation aid has historically included a hold harmless protocol, which ensures school districts either receive the same or more foundation aid from year to year, but would be removed in this proposed budget. This has led to pushback from North Shore schools facing drops in their foundation aid and Long Island Republicans backing the schools. Of the school districts seeing increases in their student enrollment over the past 10 years, Port Washington is the only one where the governor’s budget proposal would lower their state aid for the 2024-2025 school year. The school’s administration has reported continued growth in their student population during the current school year. The three North Shore districts slated to receive a decrease in their state aid in 2024-2025 are the New Hyde Park-Garden City Union Free School District, Port Washington Union Free School District and Mineola Union Free School District. New Hyde Park-Garden City is facing the biggest cut in state aid on the North Shore, with a proposed 2.13% decrease. Of the three districts facing a proposed decrease, Port Washington would receive the big-

SCHOOL DISTRICT ENROLLMENT Enrollment (2012-13)

Enrollment (2022-23)

% change

Carle Place

1,400

1,276

-8.90%

East Williston

1,756

1,594

-8.20%

Floral Park-Bellerose

1,488

1,616

8.60%

Glen Cove

3,202

3,134

-2.10%

Great Neck

6,579

6,818

3.60%

Herricks

3,887

4,386

12.80%

Manhasset

3,260

2,996

-8.10%

Mineola

2,767

2,936

6.10%

New Hyde ParkGarden City Park

1,662

1,648

-0.80%

Port Washington

5,237

5,350

2.20%

Roslyn

3,205

3,295

2.80%

Sewanhaka

8,271

7,770

-6.10%

Westbury

4,761

4,632

-2.70%

District

NHP neighbors seek to remove ‘squatters’ Continued from Page 3 Jacobs is not convinced that the lease is valid, alleging it was signed by one of the prior homeowners seven years after his death. A group of 65 neighbors is now bringing the case to court to challenge the granting of occupancy to the suspected squatters, arguing that the lease is not valid and therefore they must be removed. After the couple was served on Feb. 8, Jacobs said the neighborhood was on edge. He said the man occupying the home has exhibited violent behavior toward the neighbors, calling one of them a slur and threatening him at his home after finding out about the neighborhood petition to remove them. “We are scared to death right now,” Jacobs

said the day the couple was served, “because as soon as they see this summons we don’t know how they’re going to react.” Jacobs said the problem with the alleged squatters began with their dog, which would repeatedly escape and chase after people in the neighborhood. He called it an aggressive dog that would lunge at people even when leashed. But on the night of Jan. 24 tensions peaked. Jacobs said the alleged squatters were banging on neighbors’ doors, raising their middle fingers at them, approaching neighbors in their vehicles and pacing the block with their “vicious” dog in what Jacobs called an attempt at intimidation. The neighbors demanded the help of the Town of North Hempstead in removing the sup-

posed squatters, but it was to no avail. About 50 New Hyde Park residents attended a Town of North Hempstead meeting on Feb. 6 to express their grievances with the alleged squatters in their neighborhood. The neighbors who spoke said the town had failed them in their pursuit to address this issue, including resident Erica Loomba. She said they received no help or communication from board members despite reaching out to them directly – excluding Councilmember Christine Liu, who met with residents. But without any response from the town despite reporting the issue, Jacobs said they took matters into their own hands and banded together to challenge the couple’s now legal occupancy by taking them to court.

Dalton celebrates 100 years of service Continued from Page 5 vice and care. “You need to have compassion, and be able to keep your composure and be strong for families that come in,” Mendolia said. “You’re the people they’re looking to for guidance in this very difficult time.” LoGuidice likes to say that working at Dalton Funeral Homes isn’t a job, it’s a calling. “We’re not salespeople,” he said. “This is not a job for us, it’s a vocation. We’re not in it to make money, we’re doing it to help people.” That love of what they do has sustained Dalton through changes in the funeral home

business, from how families of different generations process grief, to logistical switches that have emerged. “It used to be that visitation hours would be maybe 11 a.m.-11 p.m., for three straight days,” Lewis recalled. “Now, younger families don’t do that as much, it’s more like 4-7 p.m., or 2-5 p.m. for one day.” Each Dalton location has adapted to its community, as religion, socioeconomic factors and demographics contribute to giving each funeral home some unique needs. “We’re here in the village of Floral Park, and we get to know the residents really well,” Lewis said. “We’re close to the fire department and the police department, and

right near the train station. So we get to know the families and that helps them feel comfortable with us.” As it celebrates its centennial, the Dalton employees said they weren’t looking for proclamations and ceremonies; they’re comfortable with the gratitude they often receive. As an example, during a Zoom interview Mendolia held up a bulletin board crammed with thank you notes from customers. “We had a lady last week who walked in with a dish of homemade brownies, a handwritten card, and a huge hug for us,” LoGuidice said. “That’s what this is about.”

gest allocation at $20,858,822. This is a 0.61%, or $127,308 decrease, from the prior year, which saw Port receive $20,986,130 in state aid – the third highest allocation of the North Shore schools. In the 2023-2024 budget, Port got a 42.25% bump in its state aid when it jumped by more than $6 million from $14,752,285 in 2022-2023. Amid the scrutiny, State Division of Budget Director Blake Washington defended the governor’s proposal and in part justified it due to the state’s declining enrollment trend of about 10% since 2014. “Instead of asking the question ‘How much more money are our schools getting?’ it should be ‘Why do we have a formula that forces us to pay for students that don’t exist?’” Washington wrote in an op-ed. “These are the hard conversations where the governor is trying to inject common sense as we engage with districts, families, the Legislature, and stakeholders in this upcoming budget. Only then can we find real, sustainable solutions that New York taxpayers rely on while also ensuring our teachers get the resources they need to educate the next generation of New Yorkers.” The New York State aid formula for schools is based on factors that evaluate enrollment, student needs and district wealth. Washington said the hold harmless initiative disregards district wealth, student needs or population changes and opposes the foundation aid formula as it limits state resources for highneed or growing school districts. “At a time when hard decisions are required to close a significant budget gap, these factors must be part of the equation,” Washington wrote.

“We just felt like the town is not doing anything so we’re going to do it ourselves,” Jacobs said. Town Councilmember Dennis Walsh said the hearing in Nassau County District Court Thursday will be the beginning of the resolution. He said the town will then respond appropriately after a court decision is issued. “I understand that we have an upcoming court date and a resolve is about to start, but that is because of our action, not yours,” Loomba said at the town meeting. “And what we’re asking is for your support in our action that is appearing before the court as well as in any way you feel it might be helpful to us.” Jacobs said he and his neighbors hope the court hearing vacates the prior order granting them occupancy, effectively kicking them out of their neighborhood.

Herricks drafts legal budget Continued from Page 2 presentation. With the day’s theme of love, one student said how the day taught them how to give love to themselves and their community. “Thank you to all of our Searingtown kids,” Vice President Henry R. Zanetti said. “You did a great job. Love is in the air and it’s a great thing. Thank you all so much.”

44 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Drucker salutes outstanding Regeneron scholars Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker (D – Plainview) joined communities across the 16th District in celebrating Regeneron Science Talent Seach competition ﬁnalists Natasha Kulviwat of Jericho High School, Vincent Huang of Syosset High School, and Jacob Gross of Roslyn High School. Kulviwat, who previously won a $50,000 prize during the 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, was recognized in

this current competition for her project addressing “The Neurobiology of Suicide: Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown as a Novel Suicide-Risk Biomarker.” Huang’s work focused on “a smart computer program LauePt4 for recognizing and simulating Laue patterns and its applications,” and Gross investigated “synergistic interactions among SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibodies.” These three scholars from Nassau

County are part of an elite nationwide field of 40 finalists that were announced on Wednesday, Jan. 24. Each finalist earned a $25,000 award and a trip to Washington, D.C., where they will compete for more than $1.8 million in prizes during the March 6-13 finals. The nation’s top 10 Regeneron finalists are scheduled to be announced on March 12. “Nassau County’s schools are among the best in the state and our nation, and the success of these out-

standing scholars in the Regeneron Science Talent Search oﬀers yet another example of the importance of public education,” Drucker said. “It is so inspiring to watch these remarkable young people excel as they confront some of our society’s most daunting issues because I truly believe that they have the power to change the world with the aptitude and drive they have demonstrated. I wish them continued success in this competition and all of their future endeavors!”

Legislative District 16 was well represented in this year’s competition. In addition to this trio of finalists, semifinalists included PlainviewOld Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School’s Syon Khatter, Richard Austin Wong and Christina Pan; Syosset High School’s Alex Chen, Griffon Hon and Aryan Nirav Shah; and Jericho Senior High School’s Victoria Tan. Each of the semifinalists won $2,000 in recognition of their scholastic aptitude.

Lipinsky sets new FCA offers gambling support fundraising record place at North Hempstead Beach Park in Port Washington. Erin has been a longtime member of the Great Neck Spirits Basketball Team for Special Olympics NY. Erin was joined by many others from the community who support Special Olympics New York every year by raising funds from family and friends—and then splashing into frigid winter waters. This year, there were 110 plungers, raising a total of $63,000. The Polar Plunge supports year-round sports training and competition and health and inclusion programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the Special Olympics NY community. Donations are still being accepted at:http:// events.nyso.org/goto/ erin2024 For questions, please contact Rebecca Hoffmann at Special Olympics PHOTO BY JOE OGINSKI NY – Long Island office at:rhoffmann@nyso.orgor Erin Lipinsky at the 2024 Polar Plunge call 631-458-1579.

On Feb. 3, Great Neck resident Erin Lipinsky raised $32,600 for Special Olympics New York at the Annual Polar Plunge. This year marks Erin’s

10th plunge where he broke his own fundraising record, once again making him the top individual fundraiser of the event. The plunge took

Family & Children’s Association, Long Island’s leading health and human services nonproﬁt organization, announced today the opening of two FCA Gambling Support and Wellness Centers, one in Hempstead, the other in Hicksville. The announcement was made during a press conference at FCA headquarters in Garden City. Joining FCA President and CEO Jeﬀrey L. Reynolds at the podium were FCA Assistant VP Clinical Services Nicolle Vasselman; Pam Brenner-Davis, regional team Lead NY Council on Problem Gambling Resource Center; Ron Reese Sr. vice president Las Vegas Sands; Michael Bonakdar, the general manager of Jake’s 58 and Addis Carbonnell-O’Connell, director of compliance at Jake’s 58. “The Long Island Problem Gambling Resource Center is excited to have FCA join the community of Problem Gambling treatment on Long Island,” said Pam Brenner-Davis Team Lead at the Long Island Problem Gambling Resource Center. “As the region sees a continued expansion of gambling opportunities, the need for comprehensive care is growing. FCA is a strong partner in the community, and we look forward to further collaboration to address gambling harms.” “We’re proud to partner with FCA, an organization that’s been a staple on Long Island for 140-years,” said Ron Reese, Sr. Vice President Las Vegas Sands. “They will be providing a valuable resource to the community to those who might need it.” Las Vegas Sands also announced a $200,000 donation to support FCA’s two new Gambling Support and Wellness Centers. From the state lottery expansion to casinos to online sports betting, which became legal in New York in 2021, gambling is here to stay. On Long Island, the industry is bigger than ever and growing by the day. New York recently announced that it generated $862 million from mobile sports wagering in its second year of operation. When added to $693 million and $200 million in licensing fees collected in 2022, that brings the total generated revenue to $1.75 billion. For many, gambling can be a form of entertainment.

However, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling, about 4-6 million Americans have a gambling problem. With the increase in online sports betting, gambling has reached newer, younger audiences, many unaware of the larger consequences of problem gambling. FCA, with its 140-year history of helping Long Islanders, has won state certification from the Office of Addiction Services and Supports to provide problem gambling counseling and support to those who need or want help. FCA’s new Gambling Support and Wellness Centers will offer individual, group, and family counseling, including financial counseling and planning, to individuals and families experiencing problem gambling issues. “It’s imperative for us to introduce important new programs such as this one, especially as the need emerges,” said FCA President and CEO Jeffrey Reynolds. “As problem gambling continues to surge, particularly among young people ages 25-34, we want to make the resources readily available to Long Islanders who need or want help.”

Head of info officer, facilities named at Old Westbury Two executives with a combined 34 years of experience in professional service have joined SUNY Old Westbury to lead the campus’ Information Technology Services and Maintenance & Facilities Operations departments. Michael A. Pastine has been appointed as assistant vice president and chief information oﬃcer while John J. Fabbricante has been named director of facilities operations. “All members of the campus community interact and appreciate the hard work of the Information Technology Services and Facilities Departments, so we

are looking forward to Michael and John bringing their leadership and expertise to those areas,” said President Timothy E. Sams. In his new role, Pastine is responsible for providing management to the units of Information Technology Services and for system-wide planning, management, security, and coordination of the University’s technological resources. Prior to SUNY Old Westbury, he served as the team lead and senior network security analyst for Fordham University in addition to being an adjunct professor in Fordham’s Gabelli School of

Business & Computer Science. Pastine has also worked at Harding Advisory LLC as the chief information ofﬁcer, where he oversaw all IT functions and departments. A resident of Bayside, New York, he earned a Master of Business Administration with a focus on analytic systems and a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, both from Fordham University. He has also served in the United States Army and Army National Guard. As director of facilities operations, Fabbricante leads the campus’ Maintenance and Facilities Operations unit. This

includes maintenance and trades, custodial services, the campus heat plant, and the campus’ general institutional services unit responsible for grounds, transportation, mail/receiving, environmental health and safety, and code compliance. Prior to his arrival at Old Westbury, he served as the director of engineering for The Carnegie Hall Corporation in New York City, supervising the physical plant for the world-famous performance venue. Fabbricante’s career also includes Columbia University, where he was responsible for all electrical distribution and generation, ﬁre systems, metering

and monitoring, and supervised the procurement, contracting and operations of vendors related to both capital improvements and maintenance projects. A resident of New Hyde Park, Fabbricante earned a Bachelor of Arts in Labor Studies from the National Labor College and a diploma in Building Construction Project Management from Iowa State University. He is a member of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors: New York Chapter, the Association of Energy Engineers and the National Fire Protection Association.

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Suozzi, Pilip trade blows in debate

Continued from Page 6 “How can you run for Congress in this post-George Santos world and not be completely transparent?” Suozzi asked. “It’s shocking to me and I think it’s shocking to the voters as well.” But with Santos in the rear window, at the forefront of the campaign is the migrant crisis issue and border security with the the bipartisan Senate national security bill hanging in the balance. When asked what she would do to secure the border, Pilip said she would close the border, continue building the wall, inPlace your ad Slate in print and online creasewith borderthe patrol agents and be “tight” Place your ad in print with the Blank Media on asylum-seeking standards. and Litmor Advertising group. BlankPublications Slate Media and Litmor Publications Advertising group. “Even though that I immigrated, I came ad will appear in of all our 11 ofhyper-local, our hyper-local, award winning community newspapers and Your ad Your will appear in all 11 Post your ad yourself by going to https://classifieds.theisland360.com to this country legally,” said Pilip, who was award-winning community newspapers. born in Ethiopia and later raised in Israel. Contact “I believe in the American dream. I want Debbie ContactFlynn Debbie Flynn people to come to this country legally.” Classified Advertising Classified Advertising Manager Manager 821 Franklin Avenue,Pilip Suite 208 Suozzi criticized for opposing 22 Planting Field Rd, 516-307-1045 Ext. 218 516-307-1045 Ext. 218 Garden City, NY 11530 Roslyn Heights, 11577 the bipartisan Senate border deal, saying (516) 294-8900 www.gcnews.com dflynn@theisland360.com www.theisland360.com dflynn@theisland360.com it delivered on much of what she and the Republican Party had called for to aid in addressing the migrant crisis. The Democrat strongly supported passage of the bill. 22 Planting Field Road 821 Franklin Avenue, Suite 208 “All these problems, terrorists are comRoslyn Heights, NY 11577 Garden City, NY 11530 ing over, fentanyl, all these problems – and www.theisland360.com (516) 294-8900 www.gcnews.com I agree there’s problems – we ﬁnally have a chance to have a solution and we’re not going to do it because President Trump said it will help Biden?” Suozzi said. Bellerose resident Zunair Ahmed, who lives near a migrant housing center, asked the candidates what they would do about the migrant issue locally. In response, Pilip repeated her border security stance. When asked by the moderator to address local migrant issues, Pilip said the ﬁrst step is securing the border and then devising a plan to respond. She did not go into details on a plan, saying she could not elaborate until the border was secured. Suozzi criticized Pilip for not proposing solutions, saying an obvious path is to push forward the border deal struck down in the Senate, which he backs and Pilip does not. “She has no solutions whatsoever,” Suozzi said. “Just ‘there’s a problem, there’s a problem, oh, by the way, it’s a really big problem.’ That’s not enough, that’s not how you govern, that’s not how you get things done.” Pilip continued to blame Suozzi for the migrant issue, which Suozzi denied and

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blamed on extremism. While both advocated for the release of Israeli hostages, Suozzi said it begins by continuing to support Israel and once again called for passage of the bipartisan national security deal that would provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. Pilip said aid to Israel should not be part of bill. While the candidates differed in their support for a national security bill, both found some common ground in their advocacy for bolstering affordability in the district. Suozzi and Pilip supported the reintroduction of the State and Local Tax, or SALT, deduction, which provides methods for taxpayers to reduce their federal taxes. Suozzi touted his ability to pass SALT while a congressman, calling out the Republican Long Island representatives for not doing it already. He said bipartisan efforts are necessary to do so. Pilip attacked Suozzi for raising taxes while county executive, which he explained was due to turning the county around during a “fiscal disaster.” “I know how to get things done in government and to serve people,” Suozzi said. “Not by talking, Mrs. Pilip, but by accomplishing things and bringing money back to solve problems.” Pilip said her commitment to affordability was reflected in her role in cutting taxes in Nassau County as a legislator. Blank

Slate media fact-checked this statement and found it to be untrue. Since Pilip joined the legislature in 2022, the county has kept taxes stagnant by not increasing or decreasing the levies. Democratic legislators proposed a tax decrease for the 2024 budget. which was struck down by Republicans, including Pilip. With the repealing of Roe v. Wade and abortion bans sweeping across states in the wake, another issue concerning voters is abortion. Pilip, who has seven children, said that women should have a choice over their reproductive decisions, denouncing a national abortion ban but refusing to say she was pro-choice and not answering whether she would codify Roe v. Wade after being pushed by Suozzi to respond. In the wake of the debate, both candidates said it was a success for their campaigns. “Mazi Pilip exposed Tom Suozzi for being Joe Biden’s accomplice in creating the migrant crisis and held Suozzi accountable for lying about her, especially her position on abortion,” Pilip’s campaign said. “Mazi Pilip’s performance was incredibly unsettling,” Suozzi’s campaign senior advisor. Kim Devlin, said. “Pilip was completely uninformed, constantly repeated scripted talking points, and grew increasingly erratic over being challenged on issues.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CANDIDATES

Newly elected U.S. Rep Tom Suozzi, left, and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip (R-Great Neck) right.

Suozzi, Pilip differ on aid package for Israel Continued from Page 20 Eﬀorts to reach Pilip’s campaign for comment were unavailing. Pilip in a debate Thursday said that aid to Israel should not be linked with aid to other countries. “It should not be on condition, it should not go with Ukraine aid,” Pilip said. While the Senate voted for the aid package, the trajectory of the bill is uncertain after being passed for consideration. Just days before the aid package was presented, the Senate proposed a bipartisan national security bill that would have provided a historic tightening of security at the country’s southern border while also deliver-

ing aid to Ukraine and Israel. Democrat Suozzi applauded the bill and expressed full support for it, calling it the “toughest and fairest” reform on border security the country has seen in decades. In a statement Monday, Pilip called the deal a “nonstarter” that would legalize “the invasion currently happening at our southern border.” “I do not support what amounts to the legalization of the invasion of our country,” Pilip said. Suozzi challenged Pilip’s use of the word “invasion” to describe the crisis as dangerous, accusing her of siding with GOP extremists in opposing the bill.

“She’s doing it because she’s consistently beholden to the national Republicans and like them she’s only interested in playing politics with people’s lives instead of working to solve problems,” Suozzi said. But after Republicans denounced the bill, with former President Donald Trump lobbying against its passage, the national security bill failed in a 49-50 vote Wednesday. Republicans justiﬁed the negative votes as a need for even stricter border security. Suozzi said the failure to pass the national security bill was “dangerous” for Israel as it lacks unwavering support for the country amid war. “This is actually dangerous for Israel,

this is dangerous for the hostages,” Suozzi said. “It sends the wrong message at the wrong time that the United States cannot get its act together to try and send the funding that Israel needs in this conﬂict.” He said the result of what he called GOP extremism blocking the deal is endangering Israel, keeping the U.S. border open and enabling Russian strongman Vladimir Putin. “This is not a game,” Suozzi said. “This is really serious business. This is about life and death — these are real people’s lives, this is aﬀecting everybody on a regular basis and this political game-playing is what is sickening the people of America. They want results.”

48 The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

Champkids raises $1,800 for charities

▼ LEGALS ▼ LEGALS RT

Notice of Formation of PieCart LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/04/2024. 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 Jonathan Cheris: 224 Overlook Terrace, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Notice of Formation of Discenza Business Continuity Solutions. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/25/2024. 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 David Discenza: 7 Mitchel Ave, East Meadow, NY 11554. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Continued from Page 2 12 years, and Buddha’s Light International Association. Champkids raised $800 for Tzu Chi Academy, which will go towards purchasing lion heads and drums for its lion dance team. Tzu Chi Academy, based in Oyster Bay, participated in the Lunar New Year competition festivities with its lion dance team performing for participants and families. Buddha’s Light International Association is an international NGO that promotes equity and social progress. Allena said Champkids’ donation of $1,000 to the organization will go

toward its 10 adopted villages in India to address poverty crises. She said she hopes their donation will help to end the cycles of poverty that the villages are living through by bolstering their access to education. Since the founding of Champkids, more than 1,000 young artists have been able to engage in the programs and a multitude of organizations have received charitable donations from its proceeds. Allena said that unlike many of her peers, she found that sports was not her forte despite multiple attempts at diﬀerent sports. Instead, she found joy and passion in art specializing in mixed-media using mediums like acryl-

ic paints and oil pastels. But through searching for her talents at a young age, she said she also understood that many other kids may have the same struggle in ﬁnding their creative passions and an outlet to express them. “Some kids are like me,” Allena said. “They don’t really enjoy sports, they don’t really have an outlet to compete like sports competitions.” Many art competitions are mailin competitions, spanning weeks or months while contenders wait for results after mailing in their submissions. But Allena’s art competition model eliminates the waiting game, providing same-day results for young artists to

compete and ﬂex their artistic talents. Allena herself has participated in a number of art competitions, even going on to win some, but now she is taking on the responsibilities of the art competition host rather than the artist. “Now I want to give [this experience] to other kids,” Allena said. Champkids is fully run by student volunteers, with about 15 high schoolers helping to produce the art competitions – from organizing to hosting the day’s events. From here, Allena has big dreams for Champkids as she looks to expand the organization to open chapters throughout the state and nationally.

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50 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

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Long Island Lutheran boys shoot for beating nation’s best BY M I C H A E L J . L E W I S When you reach a certain level of success in high school boys basketball, scheduling becomes mighty diﬃcult. Many local teams just won’t play you, afraid of a 40-point blowout that would dampen morale of players and fans. But there are only so many outstanding teams out there that are within driving distance, so to get the best competition, you have to travel a bit. The Long Island Lutheran High School elite team has put more miles on its players this sea-

“Kayden has had a great year for us; he’s physical, talented and relentless in his work ethic...He makes no excuses.”

— John Buck LUHI COACH

son than a cross-country Greyhound bus, but it’s because the Crusaders are very in demand and want to play the best. Boasting perhaps its best roster ever, complete with at least eight future Division I players, Lutheran has been to the Bahamas, New Jersey, South Carolina, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Florida (twice), Indiana, and Maryland already this season. The Crusaders (16-3, through games of Feb. 11) have excelled during this cross-country voyage, currently ranked No. 4 in the ESPN high school rankings and No. 8 in the USA Today poll. “This is certainly the hardest schedule we’ve ever played, no doubt,” said LuHi coach John Buck. “It is a little intentional, as we want to give our kids a chance to play at a high level. But also, when you’re invited the City of Palms (tournament in Florida), you’re invited to the Bahamas, places like that, you want to say yes.” For the Brookville school, this season was always going to be an exciting one, based on the

talent it had returning: The only senior on the squad is guard V.J. Edgecombe, who was recruited heavily by Duke and Kentucky but ultimately chose Baylor University. Edgecombe, averaging 17.9 points per game to go along with ﬁve rebounds per game, is a dynamic 6-foot-5 slasher originally from the Bahamas, and his leadership this season has been crucial, Buck said. “V.J. has been great, really strong in close games we’ve played and has handled all the (recruiting) hype really well,” Buck said. Other top standouts for the Crusaders are the Mingo brothers, Kayden (a junior) and Dylan (a sophomore), both of whom are being heavily recruited by Division I schools, and Kiyan Anthony, a junior whose father is Carmelo Anthony, the legendary former NBA star for the Knicks and Nuggets, among others. “Kayden has had a great year for us; he’s physical, talented and relentless in his work ethic,” Buck said. “He makes no excuses; I can’t ever remember telling him something and him responding ‘yeah, but …’ He’s been great.” Buck said he also has been pleased by Anthony, and has had a great relationship with his famous father. “Kiyan has had some games where he’s exploded, and he’s become a really holistic player,” Buck said. “And with Carmelo, he’s been great. We have some mutual acquaintances like (NBA guard) Chris Paul, and sometimes I’m talking to him and in your head you’re thinking ‘Wow, this guy is a Top 10 scorer of all-time.’” With so much travel during the season, one imagines it would be very hard for the high school students to stay on top of their homework and classwork (LuHi players were not made available to be interviewed for this story despite multiple requests). Buck said he and his staﬀ are always working to make time for the players to get their work done. “When people express they want to come to LuHi, we make sure they understand this is a legit school, and you’re going to be held to a higher standard,” Buck said. “We have study halls on the road, sometimes we’ll be in the breakfast area of the hotel, and the kids will be on their books. “When we come home from trips I structure it so they have time and space to go to extra help sessions and whatever they need from the teachers.” On Feb. 16 LuHi will be part of a new event

PHOTO COURTESY OF L.I. LUTHERAN

Kiyan Anthony, son of former NBA great Carmelo Anthony, is a big reason L.I. Lutheran is ranked in the Top 10 nationally in high school boys basketball. held at Hofstra called the Bob McKillop Invitational, where six top teams from across the country will play over two days of games. The marquee matchup will be Feb. 16 at 8 p.m., where the Crusaders will again get to face the No.1 high school team in the nation, Montverde Academy out of Florida. Montverde, featuring No.1 prep recruit Cooper Flagg (committed to Duke University), defeated LuHi earlier in the season, but now the

Crusaders get them at home. Tickets for the tournament can be found at this link (Friday tickets are currently sold out, but more may go on sale, according to the tournament website). The ticket site address is: https://admitone.com/events/bob-mckillopinvitational-hempstead-9378067 “It’s going to be amazing, and a great thing for local basketball fans,” Buck said. “There will be no shortage of future pros out there.”

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 16, 2024

Mineola girls team capture third consecutive Nassau County title

BY M I C H A E L J . L E W I S

PHOTO BY NATE LEWIS

Kelsey Morrison, left, and Michaela Palumbo have led the Mineola girls bowling team to its third straight county team title.

Most of the time, doing something repeatedly means it gets easier as it goes along. Not so when you’re trying to defend a championship. The target on your back is a bullseye that only gets bigger the more you win. The Mineola girls bowling team had won two straight Nassau titles coming into last week’s county match and were looking to do something unprecedented in school history. But the rollers from Levittown’s MacArthur High School were closing in, and midway through the Feb. 2 county championship at Bowlero in East Meadow, the gap had closed to just 80 pins. “This was deﬁnitely more nervewracking than the last two,” senior Kelsey Morrison, Mineola’s No.2 bowler, said with a smile. “We knew how good (MacArthur) was and we knew we had to keep bowling our best to stay ahead.” And that’s exactly what the Mustangs did, as for the second year in a row their depth proved the diﬀerence. With Morrison and top bowler Michaela Palumbo bowling at or

just below their averages, the rest of the Mineola team stepped up, and the Mustangs grabbed a win, with a 5,026 combined six-game score besting MacArthur’s 4,805. “So proud of all of them, because this wasn’t an easy thing to do, with everyone gunning for us,” coach Mark Miller said. “We had our top two bowl well and then everyone else stepped up.” In 2023 it was senior Jackie Lewis who bowled far above her normal score at counties, while this year’s surprise at county proved to be senior Emma Foley. She came into the match averaging 154.2 pins per game this season but wildly exceeded that by averaging 174.5 in the six games. She and junior Kate Flynn (who went from a 137.8 average to a 159 at counties) exceeded expectations and helped carry Mineola to the win. “I was so excited and proud of Emma and Kate because we really needed them,” Palumbo said. “To see them step up a level like that, it just shows that everyone on our team is strong and can bowl great under pressure.” That certainly includes Palumbo, who averaged 200 per game this sea-

son, and Morrison, who was just a tick behind at 196 per game. Palumbo again led the way at counties, rolling a high of 201 and maintaining her poise throughout. “She’s gotten a little bit better every year, and she and Kelsey are the backbone of our team,” Miller said. Palumbo said she’s tried very hard to have a short memory on the lanes, something she’s struggled with in the past. “It used to be that if I had a bad frame, I’d still be thinking about it and it would bother me and affect me for a little while,” Palumbo said. “I’ve been getting better at that this season, I think.” Palumbo, Morrison and the other seniors now have one more chance to build on their legacy, at the New York State championships in Syracuse on March 8-10. The Mustangs finished ninth two years ago, and last year finished eighth. “So this year we want to get at least seventh!” Miller said with a smile. “Just keep improving every year. The teams upstate are tough, really really good, but I think we have a very strong team.”

52 The Roslyn Times, Friday, February 16, 2024

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