Williston Park 2022_10_28

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

East Williston attorney John O’Kelly was arrested and charged in connection to the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

E.W. lawyer charged in Jan. 6 insurrection

Ex-school board member O’Kelly center of letter controversy

BY ROBERT PELAEZ

Nassau attorney and former East Williston school board trustee John O’Kelly was arrested Thursday for his actions during the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, according to the federal prosecutors.

O’Kelly, 66, is charged with felony charges of assaulting, resisting, or impeding law enforcement officers and interfering with law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, along with related misdemeanor offenses, officials said.

The Long Island Federal Defenders Office, which represented O’Kelly during his arraignment, did not immediately return a request for comment from Blank Slate Media.

O’Kelly previously had a controversial letter published in Blank Slate Media’s six newspapers following the election of former President Donald Trump which was viewed by many as

antisemitic.

The letter, published in December 2016, lauded Trump’s victory over former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton despite the efforts of “anti-Christian, anti-U.S. globalists, led by George Soros.”

O’Kelly described Soros as a “Rothschild banker,” referencing the notable European Jewish banking family that many conspiracy theorists and antisemitic groups claim controls the world’s governments.

The attorney went on to say that Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Christianity and nationalism clash “with the bankers’ plan for an international, atheistic, totalitarian world order.” He said both leaders strive to achieve “peace and prosperity” compared to “the bankers want[ing] war and debt.”

He also claimed Soros was “an agent of the international bankers” and called for him to be “charged,

arrested, tried, convicted and imprisoned for his actions, including his funding of Black Lives Matter and Move-On.Org.”

O’Kelly said Soros put President Barack Obama in the White House, calling the former commander-inchief “another anti-Christian, antiAmerican globalist.”

Blank Slate Media Editor and Publisher Steven Blank apologized for publishing O’Kelly’s letter, which prompted the company to refrain from running others containing derogatory and offensive language about marginalized groups.

Kelly, following the apology, said his criticisms of powerful Jewish figures should not be viewed as insults and that he was opposed to “censorship.” The apology followed decisions by Temple Sinai of Roslyn and the Old Westbury Hebrew Congregation to boycott Blank Slate Media.

Steven Grosskopf’s name added to Wall of Honor

BY BRANDON DUFFY

Mineola’s Steven Grosskopf became the most recent recipient of the John S. DaVanzo Wall of Honor Award Oct. 18.

Grosskopf is the former Scoutmaster of the village’s Troop 45, a position he retired from this August af-

ter beginning his post in 1998. He has held numerous volunteer positions at the Cub, Troop, District and Council level for the Boy Scouts.

The move comes after a committee made up of village trustees, Chamber of Commerce board members and a designated resident determined who made a lasting impact on the Vil-

lage of Mineola.

The wall, established in 2015 and named after DaVanzo, the longtime Mineola official nicknamed “Mr. Mineola,” honored first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic last year. Other members include Lou Sanders, Ed Smith, Stanley Krause, Robert Hinck and Lou Santosus.

Last year Ann Galante, Mineola’s first female trustee, mayor and former receiver of taxes for the Town of North Hempstead, posthumously received the John S. DaVanzo Wall of Honor Award.

Grosskopf, who has logged over 40 years in the Boy Scouts, also spent two years as president of the Theo-

dore Roosevelt Council, beginning in 2015.

He is the vice president of Colortone Audio Visual in White Plains and previously told Blank Slate Media he credits the Boy Scouts program with giving him the leadership skills he applies professionally.

Rape trial begins for actor, ex-E.W. resident

Danny Masterson charged with assaulting 3 women

BY BRANDON DUFFY

Actor and North Shore native Danny Masterson’s trial for charges that he raped three women about two decades ago began earlier this week.

Masterson, most known for his work on “That 70’s Show,” is standing trial on three counts of rape from separate women who have accused Masterson of assaulting them in 2001 and 2003, according to multiple reports.

Masterson, who grew up in Garden City and East Williston, has pleaded not guilty and was released on a $3.3 million bail he posted last year.

The charges against the 46-yearold actor, who grew up in East Williston and Garden City, could result in up to 45 years in state prison if convicted, reports say.

The actor was seen Tuesday attending the first day of the trial with members of his family and wife, according to ABC 7 News.

Thomas Mesereau is Masterson’s lead attorney and also represented Bill Cosby and Michael Jackson in their respective sexual misconduct cases.

The Church of Scientology, of which Masterson is a member, has reportedly played a significant role in the case against the actor, whose credits include the sitcom “Men at Work” and the 2008 Jim Carrey comedy “Yes Man.”

Mesereau told the court that the three women and the witnesses in their respective cases were “tainted by anti-religious bias” against the secretive church, according to the AP. The women involved in the case were all former members of the church, the outlet reported.

A woman identified as Christina B. reportedly said she was in a fiveyear relationship with Masterson at the time of the alleged rape in 2001. She told the court that she awoke to Masterson raping her one night and fought him off by pulling his hair, the report said.

Masterson’s counsel argued that Christina B. “reframed” the alleged

incident years after another claim of rape she reported did not result in charges, according to the report.

Another woman identified as Jen B. said she knew Masterson as a “friend from the church” where she was born a member, the AP reported. The woman told the court that Masterson, in 2003, took her upstairs from the hot tub at his home in Los Angeles and proceeded to rape her in his bedroom, according to the report. Masterson’s attorney reportedly claimed the two had consensual sex.

The third woman, identified as

N. Trout, said Masterson raped her in 2003 after he told her in a text message to come over to his Los Angeles home. She told the court that she made it clear that the two would not be having sex, the report said.

Masterson’s counsel countered her claims, saying she was aware her trip to the actor’s house would result in sex, according to the report. Masterson’s attorneys also claimed N. Trout was seeking a relationship with the actor at the time, which did not end up occurring, according to the report.

Town board OKs 5% cut in tax levy

Dems amend DeSena budget plan

BY BRANDON DUFFY

The North Hempstead Town Board unanimously approved amendments to Supervisor Jennifer DeSena’s tentative budget for the year 2023 that include a 5% tax cut during a special meeting Tuesday night.

The amendments were submitted Monday afternoon by Town Councilwoman Veronica Lurvey.

Prior to unanimously passing the amendments submitted by Lurvey, the four Democrats, who make up a majority on the seven-person board, abstained from voting on amendments DeSena submitted on Oct. 11 to her original budget, which includes an 11% tax cut.

“I am voting aye with a heavy heart knowing our residents could have had much more tax relief,” DeSena, a Republican, said during her vote on the amendments.

Tuesday night was the second special meeting in the past week. On Thursday night, Democrats in a party-line vote tabled DeSena’s revised budget amendment that provided 11% tax cuts.

Democratic Councilwoman Marianna Dalimonte said Thursday night said she could not vote on DeSena’s amendments without seeing changes to each line item in writing.

Democratic councilmembers acknowledged that DeSena’s revised budget that was provided to them was on paper, not digital and more difficult to evaluate compared to years past.

DeSena said several times Thursday night that the only changes between her tentative and revised budget was the increased use of reserve fund balances,

On Oct. 11, DeSena called for an 11% tax cut to be included in the $158.4 million tentative budget for 2023 she had previously proposed.

DeSena said the town’s current reserves are at least $26 million, well in excess of the minimum set by the town board in 2011.

In 2011, the town board enacted a fund balance reserve policy for the town’s general fund, requiring the town to maintain a fund balance reserve that is at least 10% of the town’s total general fund budget for the year.

Dalimonte said on Tuesday night she cross-referenced part of DeSena’s tentative and revised budgets and found approximately 30 line-item changes.

“Being transparent and saying you’re transparent are two different things,” Dalimonte said Tuesday night. “I am sick and tired of having to go through this and this is why I really can’t trust this process.”

The amended budget includes $89,235,036 in expenses for the general town budget, a $136,882 increase from the tentative budget due to the addition of four employees that includes laborers, an enforcement officer and an animal warden. Additional funding was also included for the town’s oyster program.

516-307-1045

Robert Pelaez 516-307-1045

Steven Keehner 516-307-1045

Brandon Duffy 516-307-1045

Steven Keehner 516-307-1045

bduffy@theisland360.com

rpelaez@theisland360.com

skeehner@theisland360.com

bduffy@theisland360.com

skeehner@theisland360.com

PHOTO FROM RED CARPET REPORT ON MINGLE MEDIA TV

Actor Danny Masterson who grew up in East Williston and Garden City has been accused of raping three women pictured in 2015.

PHOTO BY BRANDON DUFFY

The North Hempstead Town Board holds a budget workshop on Tuesday, Oct. 25.

6-12 years for DWI, injuring officer

in Greenvale in

BY ROBERT PELAEZ

Keith Dillon, a New Hyde Park resident and Coast Guard veteran, was sentenced to 6-12 years in prison last week for a 2018 drunk driving incident that seriously injured a Nassau County Police officer.

Dillon, 34, was intoxicated and impaired by Xanax when he drove his 2014 Dodge Ram onto the center median at 70 miles per hour southbound on Glen Cove Road in Greenvale and eventually crashed into an unmarked police car, driven by Nassau Police Officer Willard Gomes early on Jan. 1, 2018, officials said. Gomes suffered serious injuries.

Cocaine and Xanax were found in Dillon’s car following the crash, officials said.

He pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicular assault, assault in the second degree, aggravated driving while intoxicated and tampering with physical evidence in mid-September. Dillon previously pled guilty in May 2019, officials said, but an appellate court decision that overturned the conviction led to the case being prosecuted by the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office.

“Keith Dillon made the selfish choice to drive both drunk and impaired by Xanax early on New Year’s

Keith Dillon, of New Hyde Park, was sentenced to 6-12 years in prison for a drunk driving incident in 2018 last week.

Day 2018 and NCPD Officer Willard Gomes continues to pay the price for Dillon’s reckless actions,” Nassau DA

Anne Donnelly said in a statement.

“Driving at a speed of 70 miles per hour, Keith Dillon crashed his vehicle

head-on into an unmarked police car operated by Officer Gomes, who, ironically, was working DWI enforcement.

Officer Gomes suffered life-altering injuries, will never be able to go back to active police work and is still on the path to recovery.”

The collision pushed the police car about 50 feet backward and rotated it 180 degrees, officials said. His car flipped over and came to a stop about 30 to 40 feet away from Gomes’ car.

Gomes suffered a brain bleed, broken elbow and leg fractures which required multiple surgeries to repair. Today, he walks with a permanent limp and cannot fully bend his left elbow or touch his face with his left hand.

Gomes will require additional surgeries to regain mobility in his left arm. Dillon suffered a fractured ankle in the crash. Newsday reported that Gomes told reporters at the sentencing he felt “sorry” for Dillon and said he was willing to forgive him for the accident.

Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder lauded Gomes’ willingness to forgive Dillon and praised his character, according to Newsday.

“There’s not a better man that I’ve ever met than Will Gomes,” Ryder told Newsday. “This individual here and his family went through hell, and Will can still forgive. That says a lot for the man.”

Officials did not disclose when Dillon’s sentencing would begin.

NHP’s Keith Dillon hit Willard Gomes at 70 m.ph. on Glen

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Candidates face changhing demographics

in

BY ROBERT PELAEZ

The seven North Shore political districts with elections this November had an average total population increase of more than 5% since 2012 led by the growth of minority populations over the past 10 years, a reflection of local trends from the 2020 U.S. Census.

The maps analyzed by Blank Slate Media were the state’s 3rd and 4th Congressional Districts, the state’s 7th Senate District and the state’s 13th, 15th, 16th and 19th Assembly Districts.

Population data was taken from the U.S. Department of Justice and the 2012 and recently approved 2022 maps from the state’s Legislative Task Force on Demographic Research and Reapportionment.

Demographics listed in the data were White, Black, Hispanic, Asian, American Indian, HawaiinPacific Islander, Multiracial and Other.

Both the 3rd and 4th Congressional Districts had an 8.25% increase in total population over the past decade, growing from more than 717,700 residents to 776,971 in 2022. The White population in both districts decreased by an average of more than 13%, figures showed.

CHART BY ROBERT PELAEZ

Fewer than 400,000 White people reside in the 4th Congressional District, which currently includes the communities of Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, East Meadow, the Five Towns, Lynbrook, Floral Park, Franklin Square, Garden City, Garden City Park, Hempstead, Atlantic Beach, Long Beach, Malverne, Freeport, Merrick, Mineola, Carle Place, New Hyde Park, Oceanside,

NY 11596 (building parallel to E. Williston railroad station)

population,

Bringing clarity to a confusing real estate market.

Mineola

New Hyde Park Spacious Colonial in the Village of New Hyde Park this home has a Large Living Room, Formal Dining Room, Eat in Kitchen with granite countertops, 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Attic, Basement, hardwood foors, 1 car attached garage, CAC, Large Backyard perfect for entertaining. MLS# 3437537 $850,000

Albertson

Westbury

been able to deliver:’ Sillitti

record in sitdown with Blank Slate

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

State Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (D-Manorhaven) highlighted her accomplishments and answered questions about bail laws, gun control, housing and congestion pricing in a recent interview with The Island 360.

Sillitti has been the Assembly District 16 representative since 2021. She is vying for re-election on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines.

“I’ve been able to deliver a lot for the district in the first year in 10 months that I’ve been in office,” said Sillitti. “I look forward to continuing that work for as long as the voters will have me and I hope that will be for many years to come.”

Her opponent, Vibhuti Jha, is running on the Republican and Conservative lines. A debate between the two candidates was planned, but Jha withdrew hours before it began.

Sillitti spoke about her “budgetary deliverables” when asked about her accomplishments. She said state aid in District 16 has increased by 42% during her time in office. She also highlighted her dedication to infrastructure improvements.

“I’ve talked about it a lot. The Long Island Expressway [getting] repaved. Northern Boulevard, which is a nightmare, getting repaved,” she said. “These

are real deliverables that we were able to bring to the state and to the district which I think is important because it affects people’s lives.”

When questioned on crime, Sillitti said that the government’s job is to not only ensure that residents feel safe but are safe.

Officials across the state, including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who declared earlier this year that New York is in a “state of lawlessness,” said serial offenders return to the county to commit crimes.

“There are certain fixes that we needed to make in the budget to make

people feel better,” said Sillitti. “One of them is common sense changes to bail, giving judges additional discretion for repeat offenders. Catalytic converter thefts and then car thefts. We added more gun crimes to bail eligible offenses, we gave more money to our TAs and made some fixes to discovery law.”

The conversation about crimes committed shifted to crime prevention. In particular, gun safety, which is one of Sillitti’s campaign’s points, entered the discussion. She also touted her support from law enforcement during her interview.

Sillitti said that she has “zero toler-

SCREENSHOT BY STEVEN KEEHNER

inter-agency enforcement in high-theft areas and legislation to combat catalytic converter heists last week. She mentioned this case as an example of how to tackle crime by enacting legislation as well as allocating finances.

“So we pass legislation that would sort of crack down on this problem,” she said, “but also giving law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on the people.”

With another significant issue in her district, housing, Sillitti noted that she rents her home because of the high cost of other possibilities.

ance” for illegal guns and that current state rules surrounding firearm possession and their sale are insufficient. She added there is a happy medium where public safety can be assured without reverting to the past system, which divides those who have from those who don’t.

“I think that we can find that right balance,” she said. “I think I’m the person that could strike that right balance. And I believe law enforcement trusts me to find that balance and to be that person to advocate for them.”

Sillitti was among those in attendance when Gov. Kathy Hochul announced new initiatives to strengthen

“Before I moved in with my nowhusband, I lived like every young person in a basement apartment,” she said. “Which I think is like a rite of passage for Long Island young people because that’s all we could afford.”

Sillitti said an issue with housing mandates comes from villages and their unwillingness to concede autonomy when they all have their own community plans and opinions on the matter. (Nassau County has 64 incorporated villages — Sillitti’s district has 26 of them.)

Sillitti said there is a middle ground to incentivize housing programs. This means that neighborhoods can benefit from extra housing without risking overcrowding and any problems that may result from it.

2 Roslyn residents agents for China: DOJ

Father, daughter among 7 charged with threatening, intimidating U.S. resident to return home

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

A Roslyn father and daughter were among seven Chinese nationals charged on Thursday with threatening and intimidating a U.S. resident into returning to China, federal prosecutors said.

Quanzhong An, 55, and Guangyang An, 34, of Roslyn, are accused of operating as agents of a foreign government and money laundering. Along with the other defendants, they acted under the supervision of different officials with China’s Provincial Commission for Discipline Inspection, prosecutors said.

Quanzhong and Guangyang were arrested on Thursday morning. Five other Chinese nationals — Tian Peng, Chenghua Chen, Chunde Ming, Xuexin Houand Weidong Yuan — remain at large, officials said.

foreign states,” U.S. Attorney Breon Peace said in a statement.

As part of an international extralegal repatriation operation — “Operation Fox Hunt” — the defendants allegedly monitored, harassed and coerced a U.S. resident to return to China.

Quanzhong allegedly acted as the primary U.S.-based liaison for the Provincial Commission. As part of the scheme, various Chinese-based conspirators forced a relative from China to travel to the U.S. in September 2018. There, he met with an unidentified man’s son and convey threats that were intended to coerce the father’s return to China, officials said.

“The victims in this case sought to flee an authoritarian government, leaving behind their lives and family, for a better life here,” FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Driscoll said.

break laws designed to protect our nation and our freedom.”

Quanzhong and Guangyang also allegedly took part in a money-laundering operation involving millions of dollars moving from China to the financial system of the U.S. The defendants and their coconspirators supposedly lied to U.S. financial institutions on multiple occasions to conceal ownership and management of the funds.

The government has filed forfeiture charges against Quanzhong’s hotel in Flushing and the defendants’ homes in Roslyn, because of the money laundering indictment.

Quanzhong risks a maximum term of 10 years in jail if convicted of working as a Chinese agent. Quanzhong and Guangyang face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison if convicted of money laundering conspiracy.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

“The United States will firmly counter such outrageous violations of national sovereignty and prosecute individuals who act as illegal agents of

“That same government sent agents to the United States to harass, threaten and forcibly return them to the People’s Republic of China. The actions we allege are illegal and the FBI will not allow adversaries to

The remaining accusations, which include conspiring to serve as Chinese agents and conspiring to commit interstate and international stalking, have a possible jail sentence of five years.

Paid for by DMFIPAC, DMFIPAC.org. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.

Federal prosecutors revealed on Thursday that a Roslyn father and daughter were among seven Chinese nationals charged with threatening and intimidating a U.S. resident into returning to China.

Fortunoff Fine Jewelry at 100 years

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

Fortunoff Fine Jewelry has changed zip codes, platforms and commodities offered over its now 100-year history. But the mission has remained constant: to offer great products and high-quality service.

“I’m lucky enough to have a team of people who have been with me for decades who really understand the Fortunoff quality and the level of service that we like to give to people,” President and CEO Esther Fortunoff said. “Even though it’s a much smaller business, we give excellent customer service and meet every request.”

Fortunoff Fine Jewelry became an e-commerce-only operation in January 2021. Fortunoff continues to host extensive connections to renowned gemstone and diamond wholesalers, designers and artisans. They offer shoppers the opportunity to directly check a curated range of excellent finished fine jewelry or to get sketch ideas for handmade jewelry.

Esther’s cousins also own and operate a chain of outdoor furniture shops under the Fortunoff name.

Fortunoff ’s story dates back to 1922. Esther’s grandparents, Max and Clara Fortunoff, began in Brooklyn with a pushcart full of pots and pans. It grew into a general store with a focus on kitchenware.

Eventually, the lone Brooklyn store transformed into a vast complex with eight stores within a two-block radius. But once Helene and Alan, Esther’s parents, undertook fine jew-

elry, the store rose to fame.

The business expanded to the suburbs of Long Island, New Jersey and Westchester in the 1960s, following their consumers. Fortunoff added six new stores to the tri-state area during the following 50 years, including their Westbury location, which the family considered a high point.

“It was a good location because of the den-

sity of the population and the roads,” said Esther. “Also, because they found the right sort of bankers and people who thought that it was a good idea and it was a very central location.”

In the 1970s Fortunoff opened a specialty jewelry store in Manhattan.

The beginning of the 21st century spelled financial difficulties for Fortunoff. Following two failed private equity groups’ ownership,

the then-20-store chain collapsed in 2009, after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice.

After the second filing, Esther and her brother David, who is no longer involved, purchased the Fortunoff name. She launched a Westbury jeweler location in 2014. However, it closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunoff ’s Fine Jewelry made the full-time move online Jan. 3, 2021.

Esther said online shopping would not have been conceivable 50 years ago. But she added many people now have switched from in-person to online buying.

“[The internet] changed everything,” she said. “We tried to adapt to that and I’m still adapting to it because my business now is basically 90% online. It’s learning different skills and also adapting to what younger generations of people want to wear and their tastes and all that.”

But through all the hardships, the Fortunoff name still stands. Esther Fortunoff said that hitting 100 years as a business is an amazing feeling — one that represents enduring wars and depressions.

“When I think back on what my grandparents started in 1922, with just pots and pans and home necessities,” said Esther. “They weathered the depression, luckily, because they had things that pretty much everyone needed. I feel like our story is one of being able to adapt to change, pivot and move with the times.”

One may visit their website: fortunoffjewelry.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FORTUNOFF FINE JEWELRY

Celebrating Board Recognition Week

Herricks students, faculty and trustees take a bow during event sponsored by state association

BY JESSICA TAYLOR

The Herricks Board of Education held a meeting Thursday night to celebrate School Board Recognition Week.

The New York State School Boards Association recognizes Oct. 17-21 as School Board Recognition Week. This week highlights the imperative and essentialwork done by local school boards. They are the backbone and voice of the-

community. Student success is linked to our local school boards.

To start things off, Superintendent Tony Sinanis welcomed principal Diana DeGiorgioof Searingtown Elementary School to the board. DeGiorgio began wishing all students, facility and board members a happy Board Recognition Week.

She said, “I’m honored today to stand here on behalf of the entire district to show youa

little snapshot from Searingtown.” The students expressed their gratitude andcelebrated their board members in a video montage.

“This is to show you just how much the board does to support our district, ourinitiatives and all of our programs,” Degiorgio said.

DeGiorgio ended the video by saying “I hope it puts a smile on your heart and a happy thought in your mind. Thank you for all you do”.

President Jim Gounaris gushed: “I have nev-

er smiled as I have in 12 years duringt his night.”

Sinanis presented the board with a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for all of the hard work, devotion to students, and continued success in improving education for future generations.

The board members who serve the district are: Jim Gounaris (President), Henry R. Zanetti (Vice President), Juleigh Chin, NancyFeinstein, and Brian Hassan.

SCREENCAP BY BRANDON DUFFY

Herricks Board of Education trustees give their reports during a meeting on Thursday, Oct. 20.

Halloween scariest night of year, legally

BY RICHARD H. APAT

https://www.vmmlegal.com/ attorneys/richard-h-apat-esq-/

Halloween is a wonderful holiday, full of fun costumes, candy, and creepy-crawly decorations. It can also be a dangerous day, with higher rates of car accidents and other types of injury, especially for children.

With a little common sense and a few precautions, you can protect yourself, your family, and your community from avoidable injury.

COVID-19

Though the CDC no longer classifies indoor costume parties, haunted houses, and trickor-treating as high-risk activities, they recommend the following:

If you, your children, or anyone you’ve come into contact with has exhibited signs of illness, stay home. ONCE AGAIN, COMMON SENSE!

Use extra caution with family members who are at high risk of developing severe COVID-19 illness.

Keep your hands clean. Wash

them frequently and bring hand sanitizer with you.

If hosting a party, especially with kids or people you don’t associate with regularly, keep it small. If possible, keep the party outside, but if you’re inside, keep windows and doors partially open.

Precautions for parents

Consider limiting trick-ortreating to houses of friends and family with which you’ve arranged beforehand. If you’re going out and visiting with strangers, consider masks—not just the scary kind. When trick-ortreating, maintain safe distancing around other children. Keep

candy exchanges and visits short. Wait to eat the candy at home.

Precautions for homeowners

If you’re handing out candy, step outside where there’s air flow. Consider spreading the candy out on a table so kids don’t have to crowd together and rummage through it. Put out a bottle of hand sanitizer.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

Many motor vehicle injuries occur on Halloween eve and night.

The risk is real; 5 to 15-yearolds are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Over half of these cases involve alcohol.[source 1,source 2]

Precautions for parents

Accompany your children on their trick-or-treating. Stay alert. Discuss Halloween safety with them, with a focus on rules of the road; stay on the sidewalk, cross the street only at an intersection, etc. If their costumes are dark, add reflective tape or stickers, lights, other visibility aids, or have them carry a flashlight or

Continued on Page 41

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

Residents, friendsand family gathered Sunday morning to commemorate and immortalize Sal “Ghost” DeFeo, a lifelong Port Washington resident and motorcycle enthusiast, with a street

naming.

During a meeting on Sept. 1, DeFeo’s mother’s birthday, the Town of North Hempstead’s Town Board unanimously passed the motion for the street dedication. The corner of Main Street and Madison Avenue in Port Washington, where

honored by Port

Ghost Motorcycles operated for many years, is now also named after DeFeo.

Speakers who knew him and were affected by him spoke about his life and the street naming during the event.

“I don’t know, he was just he was a good

guy,” said DeFeo’s son, Bobby. “He was Port Washington true and blue. He said ‘I was born here and I’m gonna die here.’ And he did.”

DeFeo was born on May 14, 1927, in Port Washington. He was nicknamed “The Ghost” because of the speed he used to elude local police on his white Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

DeFeo was drafted into the U.S. Army after graduating from Schreiber High School in August 1945 during World War II. He was deployed to Europe after finishing basic training in South Carolina, where he was stationed in France, Belgium and Germany before being honorably discharged in April 1947.

“Sal DeFeo, oh my God,” Commander John Fiore of Port Washington VFW Post 1819 said. “It’s one thing to make a mark in life. But Sal? He carved a canyon in Port Washington and I’m proud that he was part of my command.”

DeFeo fixed and sold motorcycles out of his garage as a teenager and later founded Ghost Motorcycles in 1950. Aside from motorcycle aficionados, competitive riders and mechanics, the store drew several big-name visitors, from Billy Joel to Alan Jackson to see what DeFeo offered.

Other speakers, like DeFeo’s friend Kenny Bunn, said that he embodied the charm of Port Washington and its residents.

“I was with him every day and I still have his voice messages on my phone, they’ll never go anywhere,” said Bunn. “I love the family, you are my family, your Port Washington’s family. There’s no town like this town. I’m never leaving — just like him — I’m never leaving.”

DeFeo died at 94 on Aug 19. 2021.

PHOTO BY STEVEN KEEHNER

Washington resident and

Town to get 30 E.V. charging stations

BY STEVEN KEEHNER

The Town of North Hempstead’s “Power Up in a Park Initiative” will see30 new electric vehicle charging stations installedin seven community parks, officials announced Tuesday.

North Hempstead has only eight public electric vehicle chargers. Under the initiative will 30 level 2 chargers will be installed in seven Town parks. These can give a vehicle 2030 miles of range per hour of charge.

The parks being considered include the Michael J. Tully Park in New Hyde Park; Clinton G. Martin Park in New Hyde Park; Town Dock in Port Washington; North Hempstead Beach Park in Port Washington; Mary Jane Davies Park in Manhasset; Clark Botanical Gardens in Albertson; and The Yes We Can Community Center in Westbury.

The investment represents a big step forward in the availability of public charging stations on the North Shore.

State Sen.Anna Kaplan (DPort Washington) obtained a $500,000 grant to assist the project move forward.

“There are more electric cars on Long Island roads than ever before,” said Kaplan. “But, there has never been any significant investment in public charging stations for drivers in our community to use.”

Even after considering the electricity consumed for charging, electric vehicles often have a lower carbon foot-

print than gasoline-powered vehicles, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The lifetime greenhouse gas emissions of an electric vehicle are also fewer than those of a typical gasoline-powered vehicle.

There are 15,535 electric vehicles on the road in Nassau County, per state data. New York City aims to have 20% of new vehicle registrations be for electric vehicles by 2050.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNA KAPLAN’S OFFICE

State Sen. Anna Kaplan and officials from the Town of North Hempstead introduce the “Power Up In A Park Initiative” at Clinton G. Martin Park in New Hyde Park.

VIEWS Editorial Cartoon

More than just a library election

Firemen in Ray Bradbury’s novel “Fahrenheit 451”– the temperature at which paper burns — were charged with enforcing a ban on books by setting them ablaze.

Bradbury wrote his book during a red scare incited by Sen. Joseph McCarthy and was inspired by the book burnings in Nazi Germany and Austria in the 1930s.

“The books targeted for burning [in Germany] were those viewed as being subversive or as representing ideologies opposed to Nazism,” according to the book “Book Burning.” “These included books written by Jewish,comm unist,socialist,anarchist,liberal,pacifist, andsexologist authors, among others.”

The books burned initially included those of Karl Marx. They later included very many other others, such as Albert Einstein,Helen Keller, writers in French and English, and effectively any book that was not ardent in its support of Nazism.

In a campaign of cultural genocide, books were also burned by the Nazisen massein occupied territories, according to “Books as Weapons.”

We would not compare the campaign to burn books in Nazi Germany with the calls for “parental choice” and charges of “pornography” now being made in the race for trustee seats on the Great Neck Library.

But two things should give us all pause.

No one in the 1930s thought a campaign started by the German Student Union to ban books in Germany would turn into an effort to destroy whole cultures. But it did.

More importantly, the calls for “parental choice” and charges of “pornography” being made in online chat rooms and through social media in 2022 are not taking place in isolation.

Far from it. The effort to bar books in Great Neck with phrases like “parental choice” and pornography” are part of a national movement to suppress ideas and civil rights.

Call it Christian nationalism, White Supremacy, Trumpism, or whatever

you like– the movement aims to advance an authoritarian agenda. And the battlefield covers every level of government – from the presidency to boards governing libraries.

The same words are being used in campaigns across the country to restrict books and curricula, usually centered around race, gender and sexual orientation. This is not a coincidence.

The large majority of book bans underway today are not spontaneous, organic expressions of citizen concern,” according to PEN America, an association representing authors. “Rather, they reflect the work of a growing number of advocacy organizations that have made demanding censorship of certain books and ideas in schools part of their mission.

This is can be seen in Florida with the “Don’t Say Gay” law imposed on schools and the banning of books in places like Florida and Texas that are considered “divisive” such as those teaching disturbing things about slavery, the Civil War and Jim Crow. T

One school district in Texas briefly banned the “Diary of Anne Frank,” the story of a young Jewish girl in hiding with her parents during the Holocaust.

The focus in the Great Neck Library race are books with LBGTQ themes and books that depict sex in any manner, even educationally.

The books they are calling “pornography” include award-winning bestsellers that are housed in libraries across the country.

“Some books about sex for tweens and teens describe how their bodies work,” a Great Neck author and journalist Wendy Wisner writes in a letter to the editor this week. “Sometimes, there are images of bodies and even of sex. This is not new and this is how sex education works.”

By the definition being used by Great Neck critics you could consider books on biology, encyclopedias and even the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel to be pornographic.

The decision to carry books with this content and where to place them

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in a library should be up to professional librarians – not politically motivated parents who do not like LBGTQ people.

Wisner correctly points out that parents have a choice. If they don’t want their children to view these books, they can supervise them at the library.

Or they choose to not send their children to the library.

We just hope these parents take the same care in supervising what their children view on the internet and television as well as the children with whom they spend time.

Fortunately, residents have strong alternatives in choosing who to run a library with a $10 million budget that is larger than most villages’ with four branches that serve all of Great Neck and North New Hyde Park.

Current Board President Liman Mimi Hu favors putting library decisions in the hands of librarians.

“Questions such as where to place the books, what books we purchase and how to run programs are decided by library professionals,” Hu said.

But her opponent, Jessica Hughes, gave no such assurances.

REPORTERS

“This is not about censorship, but we shouldn’t be promoting content that is divisive and exclusionary,” she said.

“The library director has a role, but that doesn’t mean the board absolves itself of content for what’s in children’s section, with parental consent,” she added.

Hu is also opposed by Christina Rusu, crime analyst for the New York Police Department and trustee candidate who emigrated from Romania.

Rory Lancman, a former New York State assemblyman and New York City councilman who was just appointed executive director of the LIPA Commission, is running with Hu.

He is both well-qualified to oversee the library’s $10 million budget and address the threat posed by those trying to censor what the library offers.

“I’ll be blunt: There is a movement in this country that exists here in Great Neck as well that wants to inject ideology and culture war into schools, libraries, and restrict our freedom to read, learn, study and think about issues we care about,” Lancman said.

“There is no place in the Great Neck

Robert Pelaez, Brandon Duffy, Steven Keehner

Karen Rubin

EXECUTIVES

Stacy Shaughnessy, Melissa Spitalnick, Wendy Kates, Barbara Kaplan

Farley

Library or any other library to restrict content based on topic if it makes you uncomfortable – LGBTQ, civil rights. There is a long history in this country, unfortunately to this day, of people trying to ban, restrict, remove books from our libraries.”

Lancman has also addressed the library’s dysfunction, reflected in a lawsuit filed by the library’s nominating committee against the full board for filling a board vacancy and the board’s lawsuit against the nominating committee in response.

This lawsuit raises the obvious question of why the Great Neck Library – unlike virtually every other governing body in Nassau County – needs a nominating committee in the first place.

Lancman is the right person to work with both sides to resolve the dispute if the nominating committee is allowed to continue.

We strongly endorse Lancman and Hu in the upcoming library board election.

This is the time to stop the contagion of censorship before it reaches 451 degrees.

Rosemarie Palacios

Mass transit is now real on Long Island

Iknow that there are only eight wonders of the world if you follow international travel guides.

But I have found one location in the middle of Manhattan that qualifies as one of New York’s most spectacular locations that is worth a visit, once it opens towards the end of this year. It is the new Grand Central facility that will connect thousands of Long Island commuters to the east side of the city.

It is hard to believe that after countless years of delays, cost overruns and other headaches, the facility will finally be open and operating. T

he Grand Central connecting facility was envisioned as far back at 1986. At that time, I was still in the state Assembly and a member of the MTA Capital Construction Authority. Its initial cost was estimated to be approximately $2.1 billion. Its final cost is $11.2 billion. It used a combination of federal and state funds.

Before you bang your head

against the ceiling over the cost, I suggest you plan to visit the site after the ribbon cutting takes place.

I had a chance to tour the facility as a guest of the MTA and pronounced it as “spectacular.” The place is so enormous that it took two hours to visit all of its parts and understand what an engineering challenge it was.

Any effort to build an underground facility in mid-Manhattan requires blasting and relocating conduits that have been in existence for many years.

When you dig for a new underground facility that will go deep into the city earth, you have numerous logistical challenges.

Thousands of tons of materials had to be removed as the construction workers dug deeply into the terrain. Bringing in new materials was also a challenge and you need contractors who know what they are doing.

The completed section under the

JERRY KREMER Kremer’s Corner

new Chase Bank headquarters had to be ripped out at Chase’s expense, to make sure there would be other exits available.

One of the incredible features of the Madison/Grand Central facility is

that you can walk from 48th Street to 42nd Street without using the streets above ground.

This long concourse will feature the latest in transportation features, numerous refreshment locations and a series of escalators that defy your imagination.

A typical escalator runs 146 feet down to the tracks, which is very impressive. The trip down is estimated to take about two minutes. If you have ever visited the Moscow subway or the one in Paris, you will get an idea how colossal these new escalator systems are.

The track signage is very impressive and if you love art visit the site.

Numerous artists have contributed their talents to portions of the tunnel and it’s not graffiti. I have nothing against graffiti but this connector will feature some of the best in the world. It could be a long walk to your train, but there will be plenty of distractions along the way.

I almost forgot to explain how significant this project is. It is expected that approximately 166,000 commuters will take the Grand Central route each day.

The commute for many will be reduced by at least 30 minutes each way, which makes it an incredible time saver. Avoiding a cross-town trip from 7th Avenue to the East Side, is a big bonus for all commuters.

LIRR commuters have complained since as far back as I can remember that they are the stepchild of mass transit. The new rail cars are no longer new and are waiting for replacement, but big things have finally happened.

The newly completed 3rd Track project will help speed up train service and bring more job hunters to the island. And our new wonder of the world will add value to the region’s homes and make living on Long Island that much more attractive.

A big thank you to the MTA.

A message that was years in the making

Last week marked the 15th year of my father’s passing. And I forgot the date. Sort of. But that’s not what I want to write about. What I want to write about is the way I finally remembered it: driving past a tree in my neighborhood that had fully changed into its autumn foliage, a bright beautiful orange, blazing gloriously away in the afternoon sun.

When I first encountered that tree, years ago, somehow it reminded me of my dad.

My dad, born and raised a city boy in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, somehow learned to be enthusiastic about trees, and azaleas, and so many garden fruits and vegetables that it didn’t occur to me until he was gone to wonder, where had he learned all that?

When my husband and I finally bought a house in suburban Long Island, it didn’t feel like home until we had our own raspberry bushes fighting to take over the back yard, the way Dad’s had done in Maryland. And I can never cut into a ripe tomato without remembering how many hours I had to spend watering Dad’s Beefsteak Tomato plants every summer day.

As for azaleas — my dad celebrated spring every year by taking us all out to one public arboretum or another, and posing us all in front of banks of blooming azalea bushes. I don’t know why he didn’t try planting his own — maybe our yard wasn’t big enough (after the raspberries were done with it). Going back through old photos, my sister-in-law and brother and I found we could have started an archive just using those pictures year

after year.

But that was just the tip of the iceberg, because clearly — after my brothers and I, and even Mom, had lost patience with squinting into the sun for the camera and wandered off — Dad lavished the rest of the roll on just the flowering bushes. Every year. It’s as if they, too, were somehow members of his family. (We did not, however, feel the need to keep all of their photos.)

I guess what I’m saying is, my dad was a man of simple, predictable, but deep passions. And while first among those were my brothers, and me, and my mom — soon after that came apples, and apple trees, and peach trees, and raspberries, and strawberries — you know, plants.

There was, however, another side to my dad: the side that wanted me to be perfect. As passionate as he was about photos of azaleas, he was equally passionate about my achievements. But unlike the plants, whatever I managed to produce never seemed good enough. He was the parent who would look at a report card filled with A’s and ask, “Why is this an A-minus?”

He was the one who always warned me not to talk or laugh too loudly because “people” might not like that. I never knew who these “people” were — just that their opinion of me was more important than my own.

In high school years, whenever I wrote an essay — whether for a college application or anything else — and showed it to my parents, Mom was the one who praised the good parts and asked me questions till I realized I needed to clarify the rest. Dad was the one who always — unerringly

—picked out the one sentence that most clearly made my point, and said, “Maybe tone that down a little.”

Even after I got married and brought my family some gifts from the honeymoon, I remember laying out the sweaters I had bought in Scotland for him and Mom, and the first words out of Dad’s mouth were not “Thank you” or even “You shouldn’t have.” No, pointing to the gift lying at his feet, he said, “There’s a spot.”

My first reaction was to marvel at his eyesight, because I couldn’t see anything wrong; but when I picked it up and brought it closer, sure enough there was a slightly darker part of the weave.

“Dad, that’s just what they always say about these kinds of garments: ‘Wool is a natural fiber, and some slubs or variations are naturally occurring. Such minor imperfections guarantee authenticity of your item and add to

its beauty and character.’”

I’m still wishing for a label that says the same, about me.

I don’t remember anything else he said or did after that. Mom said he was always happy wearing the sweater, but his negative reaction cut straight to my heart and is what has stayed there.

That episode, by the way, is how I learned NOT to lead with a negative whenever my children asked me my opinion about something of theirs. What do I think of their application/ dorm room/girlfriend/job? “If you can’t find anything positive to say,” I tell myself, “think of something positive anyway.” So I suppose in a way my pain was useful.

In this day and age of horrifying memoirs, I realize mine would be pretty small potatoes. But it’s important to me.

Now, with the wisdom of many years, I realize it was probably his own distrust of the world, his own uneasiness with it, that drove him to do what he thought was future-proofing me; it was not necessarily anything to do with me at all. Maybe it was just a reflex reaction, learned from his parents who had escaped from the Russian Pale, where you hid everything most precious to you, if you wanted to keep it safe.

But that’s not the lesson I learned. What I learned in my bones was that there was something wrong with just being myself, and I should do less of it if I wanted the world’s (and especially his) approval. Sit on myself. “Stifle yourself,” as “All in the Family’s” Archie Bunker always chastised his wife Edith. Hide my truest self under a

light-proof bushel. A father doesn’t say that to a daughter he’s proud of — does he?

So I learned to approach my father with trepidation. Whatever good news I brought him was likely to produce a weird reaction. I finally got a credit card? “Good, but don’t go getting yourself into debt.” (Which of course is exactly what I did.) There was ALWAYS a “but.” And it never did me any good.

So, of course, I miss him — but until recently, my thoughts of him were always mixed. Good and bad. Sweet and bitter. Like my experiences. Which I guess means I still hadn’t really, completely forgiven him.

But last week, driving home through my tree-lined neighborhood, I turned a corner and was faced with not one, not two, but three big, beautiful autumn trees, blazing away in the glory of the afternoon sun.

And even though I don’t believe in angels, or the afterlife, or any of that “mumbo jumbo” as he would have called it — this truly felt like a message from Dad. “Blaze away!” I somehow felt sure he was telling me, from somewhere beyond the grave. “I’m sorry I couldn’t say it in my lifetime, but you are glorious, and wonderful, and all I want is for you to be happy, blazing away!”

That’s when I remembered that it was his yahrzeit anniversary. Coincidence? I think not. I rushed home, and lit the last memorial candle I have from the funeral home — and decided to write this revision of how I feel about my father.

Better late than never. Love you, Dad.

JUDY EPSTEIN

A Look on the Lighter Side

‘Before it is too late!’: Trump’s antisemitic trope

One spring afternoon during my freshman year in college I was changing into my uniform for lacrosse practice. I was one of three team members left in the locker room, having arrived on a late bus from main campus to the athletic facility.

I overheard my two teammates laughing on the other side of the locker room. One told the other this joke, loud enough for me to overhear: “How many Jews can you fit in a car? Two in the front seat, three in the back and a thousand in the ashtray.”

It was an old joke. I had to wonder, how many thousands of times has it been told and how many millions laughed at it? Coming from my teammates in close proximity, though, it made the hair on the back of my neck stand up.

I walked over to my two teammates and said, “I’m Jewish. You think that’s funny?” One of them responded, “We didn’t know you were Jewish.” To which I asked, “What difference does that make?”

I didn’t know what more to say to my teammates except, “Watch your backs boys.” I knew I could, and would, dish out physical pain on the practice field.

This was not a new experience in my

life, nor would it be the last of its kind. I shouldn’t have been surprised. After all, an adult neighbor threatened to hang me — “that little Jew bastard,” when I was 10-years-old.

But these were my teammates. Perhaps I was naïve.

Fast forward: I just read a message issued by Donald Trump on his social media website Truth Social, in which he said: “U.S. Jews have to get their act together and appreciate what they have in Israel — before it is too late!”

Before it is too late? I know you like to speak in riddles Mr. Trump, but what does that mean?

He’ll never say. Straight answers have never been his forte.

Noted presidential historian Michael Beschloss tweeted Trump’s words: “Before it is too late!” which generated a number of responses.

One tweeted: “The menace in this rhetoric is unmistakable and chilling.” Another tweeted: “And yet people still scoff at Hitler comparisons.” And, one more wrote: “I don’t know about you, but a deep ancestral chill ran up my Jewish spine when I read that.”

Trump added: “No President has done more for Israel than I have…however, our wonderful Evangelicals are far

ANDREW MALEKOFF The Back Road

more appreciative of this than the people of the Jewish faith, especially those living in the U.S.”

Anti-Defamation League President Jonathan Greenblatt tweeted: “We don’t need the former president, who curries favor with extremists and antisemites, to lecture us about the US-Israel relationship. It is not about a quid pro quo; it rests on shared values and security interests ”

Trump once told his then chief of staff John Kelly that “he wished he had

POINT

generals like the ones who had reported to Adolf Hitler, stating they were “totally loyal” to the leader of the Nazi regime,” according to Peter Baker and Susan Glasser in their new book The Divider.

In this interchange, which occurred years before the Jan. 6, 2021 terrorist attack on our Capitol, General Kelly told Mr. Trump that Germany’s generals had “tried to kill Hitler three times and almost pulled it off.”

“Mr. Trump was dismissive,” Baker and Glasser wrote, “apparently unaware of the World War II history that Kelly, a retired four-star general, knew all too well.” Trump’s response, during the 2018 encounter with General Kelly, was, “Well, Hitler did a lot of good things.”

Is Donald Trump an antisemite?

According to Michael Cohen (not Trump’s former attorney), reporting for the Daily Beast on Oct. 17, Trump “regularly employs antisemitic tropes, essentializes Jews as a monolithic group, and entertains base stereotypes of Jews.”

His defenders insist he cannot be antisemitic because he has a Jewish son-inlaw, a daughter that converted to Judaism and three Jewish grandchildren. He once said that he is so popular in Israel the he could be elected Prime Minister.

Although none of this disqualifies

him from being antisemitic, one would think it might lead him to more carefully choose his words, if for no other reason than for the sake of his grandchildren. During his presidency, he hosted a White House Hanukkah party in which he invited evangelical pastor Robert Jeffress, who said Jews are going to hell.

But, Donald Trump carefully choosing his words is an oxymoron.

Or is it?

“Before it’s too late” seems more calculated than careless or clueless. Trump is a master at dog whistles, indirect messaging, disinformation and plausible deniability.

The facts are that 2.4 percent of the American population is Jewish and we are the most targeted religious minority in the U.S. Thus far, Trump’s fellow Republicans have said nothing about his statement.

White supremacy is a global threat and it is not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends that we have most to fear.

Trump’s latest (g)utterance brought me right back to my freshman locker room. I would have loved a crack at him on the playing field.

I’ll have to settle for the voting booth. Before it’s too late.

Vote no to dangerous Republican regime

In my last column, I listed many of the actions that Democrats have taken to make our lives better – climate action, voting rights, women’s rights, record jobs creation and wages, record investment in infrastructure, sustainable economic revitalization, advancing public safety and criminal justice reform – towards a more equitable society and why I urge the election of Democrats throughout the ballot, as well as voting yes on the environmental bond.

NONE of these things would have happened if Republicans were in control, and ALL of these things will be reversed or repealed if Republicans get control of Congress and our state and local governments. Republicans have already threatened to crash the full faith and credit of the nation and with it, the economy. Republicans already show their zeal to shut down government to extort Democratic administrations.

Instead of doing the people’s business, they have stated their intention to devote themselves to impeaching and investigating everyone and anyone they don’t like, from Biden and Harris to the Jan. 6 committee (one word: Benghazi).

Indeed, Republicans are using inflation, crime and “parental rights” as their go-tos to ramp up anger, frustration and grievance. But they offer lies and hyperbole, ignore the facts such as that inflation is higher in 100 other countries, is due to forces beyond a president’s control, including COVID and supply chain issues, and Putin’s genocidal war in Ukraine. They also fail to mention that crime rates are increasing as a percentage after decades of decline and reflect

a surge in gun violence, hate crimes and political violence fomented by Trumpism and easy access to guns. Can you imagine Lee Zeldin prosecuting domestic violence or hate crimes the way Gov. Kathy Hochul has?

But while Republicans revel in the problems, they offer no actual solutions (unless you consider cutting Medicare and Social Security, repealing Biden’s student debt relief, as solutions to reduce inflation; massively promoting access to guns including weapons of war as a solution to crime; and banning books in schools and libraries and overturning school and public health requirements for vaccinations an adequate answer to “parental rights”). Republicans even refuse to allocate funding for COVID prevention or to bolster the nation’s protections against a new pandemic. Their solution to crime? Reversing criminal justice reforms, bail reform, and expanding access to guns.

In fact, Republicans also are actively working to obstruct solutions to ease suffering: voting against prosecuting price gouging at the pump or grocery store amid record profits; voting against sending aid for mental health to schools and communities along with gun safety; voting against voting rights, civil rights, immigration reform, even climate disaster aid, suing to stop student debt relief. The so-called “law and order” party even threaten to defund the FBI. (Two words: Jan. 6).

What is the Republican agenda – to the extent they have admitted to it – if they take control of Congress and our state government?

KAREN RUBIN View Point

They will ban abortion nationwide, rendering women second-class citizens without the same autonomy, self-determination, and ability to forge their own future or even save their own life, as the men who impregnate them have. A Republican just introduced a bill outlawing contraception.

Under the guise of “parental rights” Republicans advocate book banning and curriculum censorship, overturing public health requirements like vaccinations. A Republican in Congress introduced a national “Don’t Say Gay” bill that would defund schools and libraries.

“Parental rights are supreme,” said Vibhuti N. Jha, Republican challenging Gina Silletti for state Assembly.As for abortion, Jha casually said without any relevance to fact, “86 percent of abortions are for casual reasons.”

Republicans will repeal the Affordable Health Care Act – for the 71st

time –which would leave the millions inflicted with long-term Covid and millions more with pre-existing conditions unable to afford health insurance. And they will repeal the hard-won ability of Medicare to negotiate drug prices, cap out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare recipients at $2000, and repeal the cap on the price of insulin (which costs $10 to make) at $35, instead of as much as $600.

Biden’s economic policies – oriented around sustainable, steady growth — have resulted in a record $1.4 trillion reduction in the budget deficit, while producing a record 10 million new jobs and wage hikes that impact people’s well-being for a lifetime; inflation is transitory.

Instead, Republicans intend to expand the 2017 tax cuts that only benefited the wealthiest 0.1% and corporations and added $2 trillion to the national debt, while repealing Biden’s 15 percent minimum tax on the wealthiest corporations. They plan cuts to Social Security and Medicare, even extending the eligibility age to 75, and require reauthorization every five years or even annually.

Republicans will reverse the allof-government press for climate action, which New York has maintained through its ambitious Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Zeldin has stated his enthusiasm for renewing fracking and installing gas pipelines through the state.

Indeed, New Yorkers should vote yes on the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act – which wouldn’t even be proposed with Republicans in power.

“We need to end the war on produc-

ing energy in the U.S. — that is the cause of inflation, that is what is leading to recession.” George Santos, the Republican running against Democrat Robert Zimmerman for Congress (3 rd) said, showing his ignorance that gasoline prices are set on a world market.

Meanwhile, Santos would be a vote for Kevin McCarthy refusing to provide additional aid to Ukraine.

Voting rights? Using the Big Lie as an excuse, Republicans around the country are abusing their power and suppressing voting, intimidating voters and election officials.

Jack Martins, who torpedoed New York’s first Independent Redistricting Commission and is now trying to regain his state Senate seat from Democrat Anna Kaplan, said he supports a suit overturning New York’s law allowing those afraid of contracting COVID to vote by absentee ballot, saying it’s just that he wants only eligible voters to vote.

How does protecting yourself from a deadly disease render your eligibility in question? New York’s rules for absentee voting are much more restrictive than most other states, contributing to low voter turnout (that benefits Republicans and Martins knows it); one of the reasons turnout was so strong in 2020 (besides hatred for Trump who lost by 7 million votes amid record turnout) was that states all eased access to the ballot the way it should be.

Democracy is on the ballot.

Vote Democrat. New York’s early voting is Oct. 29-Nov. 6; Election Day is Nov. 7. More information: www.nassaucountyny.gov/3419/Voting-Elections.

The humble brilliance of artist Alex Katz

The long overdue retrospective of Alex Katz, the American figurative artist, has finally opened at the Guggenheim Museum in Manhattan. Katz is best known as the painter who did all those portraits and landscapes defined with a flatness of color and form, economy of line and coolness of emotion. He remained true to himself and his style and never gave way to the siren call of abstract expression in the 1950s.

Katz was born in 1927 and is still alive, well and painting in his SoHo studio at the ripe old age of age 95 and if that doesn’t inspire you, nothing will.

“CBS Sunday Morning” did a segment on him recently and he comes across as vibrant, humble and charming, still working seven days a week. This miracle of a man is an exemplar of how to be successful, famous and happy so let’s take a moment to de-construct his life and uncover his secrets.

atz was born to a Jewish family whose father was a Russian émigré

who lost his factory during the Soviet revolution and his mother was a wellknown Russian actress. Katz was raised in St. Albans, Queens, and both of his parents were creative and somewhat eccentric. He was educated at Woodrow Wilson High School, where he split his time between academics and art.

After a stint in the Armed Services, he applied to Cooper Union and to his surprise he was admitted. He felt ill-prepared to compete with fellow students who had already attended art prep schools in high school but he persisted to work on his art and after graduation he studied at the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Maine.

With this foundation he returned to New York and began his quest to survive as an artist. In the 1950s, Manhattan was a hot bed of creativity with poets, artists, dancers and jazz musicians collaborating and hanging together. I think Katz’s humble, friendly,

DR. TOM FERRARO Our Town

unassuming manner allowed him to manage this world very well and he formed long-term relationships with the likes of dancers like Paul Taylor, poets like Frank O’Hara and a variety of art critics and jazz musicians.

Another fortunate moment for Alex Katz was when he met and fell in love with Ada Del Moro, who was

a force in her own right. Ada had studied biology at New York University and within a short time after they met they were married. I think she was a pivotal force in his life not only functioning as his muse (he painted at least 1,000 portraits of her) but also as an ongoing support system.

Alex Katz’s work is so well-loved and influential for many reasons. His use of flat bold colors, the lack of details and the simplicity of his canvases make them extremely accessible to most viewers. He once said his goal was to make art that would be enjoyed by the kids in Queens who he grew up with. But more than that, I think Katz’s greatest secret was how remarkably steadfast he was in character. He loved and painted portraits of his wife Ada for more than 60 years. He was steadfast to his own vision and style and resisted the influences of abstract expressionism, pop art and color field painting. He stuck with portraiture and landscape painting, ever faithful to his

own unique, bold, colorful, simple, human style.

So do yourself a favor, get to the Guggenheim and gaze in wonder upon the work of this humble genius who managed to live a life of love, joy and humility and was able to translate this to canvases that have both a coolness and a warmth. He has somehow combined Jeff Koons’ mastery of simplicity with Andy Warhol’s cool hipster attitude and Picasso’s longevity, all this by a kid raised in Queens.

PHOTO BY TOM FERRARO

“The Red Smile’

EARTH MATTERS

N. Hempstead supports sustainability – Part 2

Afew weeks ago, I wrote about a few of the Town of North Hempstead’s environmental sustainability programs: native plants, home sustainability and protecting pollinators. This segment will cover the Town’s multiple efforts to address climate change.

From the Town’s Sustainability wepage, https://northhempsteadny. gov/sustainability, a link labeled Climate Action brings the viewer to a page where it lists its efforts to fight climate change and to encourage Town residents to do the same. Recognizing the detrimental effect of climate change on the community, the Town has adopted policies to reduce the Town’s carbon footprint and to assist residents and businesses through education, legislation and other measures.

From this page, one can take the Town’s climate change survey, submit their climate story, and apply to be featured as a “Green” business. The Town’s climate change survey seeks to identify key issues, perceptions, concerns. and priorities facing the Town and its residents with respect to climate change. The anonymous survey results are used to help shape the Town’s Climate Action Planning. Please participate at https:// forms.office.com/g/M81YGpCgq7.

For those interested in the current trend of telling personal climate stories,

there is a link to a recording of a workshop the Town hosted on telling your story of climate change. The purpose of telling your climate story is “to build an inclusive and effective movement to confront the climate crisis.”

To tell your story, the site, https:// forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=5OTcfUghyEOd0zaJ5N3 Bp2UXMoe7VVtHl32ihgCQ_t5UQUs3WVk4TUxHWFZLTk8wR0tDRDhBMlo4Mi4u, instructs you to answer three questions related to your feelings on climate change. The stories are intended to be available to the community to help people understand “why climate change affects everyone personally and what we can do to help mitigate and adapt in our changing world.”

Returning to the main Climate Action page, there is a link to a page on planning and setting goals related to the Town’s Climate Smart Communities Task Force. The Task Force advises the Town on climate-related activities and on planning for the Town’s Climate Smart Communities certification. Climate Smart Communities is a state-run program that provides local governments information and guidance on best practices for mitigating and adapting to climate change.

The Town’s initial efforts under the Climate Smart Communities Program focused on clean energy and energy

LYNN CAPUANO Earth Matters

use reduction; this included exploring solar project options and energy code enforcement training on best practices for code compliance officers and other municipal officers. The page also lists work the Town is doing like completing an inventory of its own greenhouse gas emissions to identify ways to reduce them; writing a climate action plan to mitigate and adapt to climate change effects; drafting a plan to educate residents and businesses on reducing food waste and promote food recovery; and identifying benchmarks for Town building energy use.

There are links to each of these ef-

POLICY

forts and related documents- https:// northhempsteadny.gov/climateplanning.

There are additional links on the main page for education and outreach; decrease energy use and shift to clean, renewable energy; natural solutions and resiliency; climate smart communities and clean energy communities’ programs; and resources to reduce your climate impact. The education and outreach link brings you to a page with recordings of webinars on the resiliency of our drinking water, transportation innovations for environmentally friendly transportation options, and links to resources on food waste reduction from NYC, the state and EPA.

The page notes the Town is a member of the Long Island Green Homes Consortium and there is also a link to the Home Sustainability Workshops, which promote sustainable landscaping, gardening with native plants, composting, using a rain barrel and creating rain gardens. The final link notes the Town is a WaterSense promotional partner, advocating that residents save water.

The Town has several programs in place to address energy use and converting to renewable energy. They include promoting hybrid and electric vehicles by making them available for employee use and through installation

of charging stations on Town properties. The Town code requires some new residential construction to achieve minimum energy conservation standards and the Town continuously replaces old equipment with more efficient options like LED lights. The Town also adopted a law forbidding use of gas-powered leaf blowers from June 15-Sept. 15.

To promote natural solutions to climate change and resiliency to climate change, the Town has a page explaining the benefits and effectiveness of conserving trees and native plantings and lists where cooling centers are located and how to access Nassau County’s hazard mitigation plan that addresses the identification and reduction of risks associated with natural hazards.

The Climate Action resources offer more guidance and information for residents to reduce their climate impact. These include actions to reduce energy consumption, improve efficiency, and transition to electric vehicles and public transportation as well as steps for conserving and protecting water.

The Town is setting a great example for us all, demonstrating that there are things we can do to change our relationship to fossil fuels and other contributors to climate change. While we know much more needs to be done, the Town’s efforts are certainly a step in the right direction.

Letters

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Finding the best ‘fit’ for college, Part II

Introduction to Part II

This is the time of year when many families and their high school students visit colleges near and far. Some visits may be to local campuses thought to be within reach academically and financially and others may be distant in terms of admissions competition and expense.

Whichever the choice, or both, it is imperative for both family members and prospective college students to plan carefully. After deciding on where to visit, call for interview appointments, ask to sit in on a class and talk to a faculty member and current students, visit a residence hall, and check out the dining hall.

These are some of the characteristics of a good “fit” between the student and the campus.

In Part I, I described the strategy for campus visits and the federal College Scorecard as a tool for helping families and prospective students navigate the college admissions process. In Part II, I discuss additional information to be sought to find the best “fit” between a campus and a student.

Beyond the College Scorecard

Additional information can be gleaned from campus publications and in the campus interview. The goal is to

find a good “fit,” a campus that is both challenging academically and caring about student success. For example, consider these topics:

*Feel: Were the students, faculty, and staff you met on a campus tour friendly and spontaneous or were they cold and scripted? A college is a living entity; it has a narrative, a “story” based on who is there and who came before.

*Admissions: Does the Admissions staff give added weight to applicants who visit the campus? What weight is given to test scores and a required essay? Of what influence are athletic prowess or alumni connections in the admissions process?

*Academics: Are students assigned a faculty advisor? How easy is it to change majors? Can students participate in faculty-sponsored research? Does the campus foster a competitive academic atmosphere? Does the Library have easy access to resources and quiet places to study?

*Who teaches? Do full-time faculty teach undergraduate classes or do undergraduates find that most teaching is done by Teaching Assistants?

*Enrollment: What percentage of total enrollment consists of undergraduates? Do graduate students receive

ROBERT A. SCOTT, Ph.D. My Turn

preference in faculty time?

*Financial Aid: How does the college or university structure its financial aid packages in terms of grants, loans, and jobs? Does it provide “merit” as well as need-based grant awards? What percentage of students receive aid? By what percentages has tuition increased in recent years? What are the plans for future increases? Will financial aid awards be adjusted upward for any tuition increases if the family’s contribution remains the same or lower?

*Health and Safety: In addition

to protocols put in place for COVID, families and students should want to know that people on campus are physically safe and can obtain physical and mental health services when needed. What is the crime rate on and around campus? Does the Public Safety force carry guns? If so, why? Can students walk safely to shopping areas? Does the campus provide transportation on and off-campus?

*Housing and Food Service: Does the campus have sufficient residential hall space to house all undergraduates, or must students live in fraternity and sorority houses or off-campus after the first year? Does the dining service offer a variety of foods?

*Social Life: Does the college or university sponsor a rich cultural life and support many clubs and organizations, or do fraternities and sororities dominate the social scene? Will a student feel left out if they do not join one? Do students have to be varsity athletes to use the fitness center and recreational facilities?

*Career placement: Does the Career Office provide access to jobs on campus and in the summer? Do they provide information about internships, both paid and voluntary? Can students earn academic credit through intern-

ships? Does the Office provide access to on-campus interviews with employers?

*Graduate Studies: Does the campus provide advising for graduate study in all fields, including law, medicine, doctoral programs, etc.?

Conclusion

While it is true that college graduates have improved outcomes as far as income, employment, health, and civic engagement, it also is true that college requires an investment of time, energy, and intellect as well as money. Therefore, it is important that the college and the student “fit” together in an environment that is not only challenging but supportive.

The right fit is one in which the student will become a part of a community and includes the people (faculty, staff, coaches, etc.) who set the tone for the culture of the place. Ideally, the college experience should be emotionally as well as educationally rewarding.

This concludes Part II of “Finding the Best College Fit.” Good luck in your search.

Robert A. Scott is president emeritus, Adelphi University; author, “How University Boards Work,” Johns Hopkins University Press, 2018, Eric Hoffer Awardee, 2019

Blank Slate Media exposes crime in Nassau

Kudos to Blank Slate Media and the Port Washington Times for exposing the rise in crime across Nassau County over the last six months. While other newspapers were talking of the “perception” of crime, Blank Slate Media demanded and received recent crime stats for Nassau County which were alarming to read about. Crime has no boundaries and is even prevalent across Long Island.

Former New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton several months ago revealed on a morning radio talk show that he requested the Metropolitan Transportation Authority back in 2014 to install cameras on the trains. Sadly, this request fell on deaf ears under Gov.

Cuomo and Lt. Gov. Hochul’s watch. Gov. Hochul, who is running scared due to the crime situation, has just announced the future installation of cameras and an increase of police officers on transit patrol. The recent increase in property thefts on the Long Island Rail Road has contributed to the lawlessness in the transit system.

Gov. Hochul’s new initiative entitled “Cops, Cameras, Care” falls short because it should be called “Cops, Cameras and Jail.”

Gov. Hochul has refused New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ sensible request to give judges more discretion in deciding whether to release crime suspects. Obviously, the NO Bail, NO JAIL initiative is failing New Yorkers. Even New York At-

torney General Letitia James is finally admitting that “bail reform” has to be reformed.

Lee Zeldin is striking a nerve with voters of all kinds, including Democrats, in acknowledging that there is a definite crime pandemic and the recidivism rate is a reality that needs to be addressed. If Gov. Hochul is serious about addressing crime, maybe she can reallocate some of the 65 state troopers assigned to the Governor’s Detail. The Albany Times-Union in August 2021 identified that approximately 65 police officers are assigned to the governor. Put most of these state troopers where they are needed in the communities where we live.

Gov. Hochul has only agreed to one

debate after early voting has begun. Obviously she wants to avoid being transparent on discussing the crime rate, New York State earning the distinction of the “highest tax burden,” and the shady deals surrounding the Buffalo Sports Stadium bailout and the Penn Station revitalization. The continued use of “emergency authorizations” allowing for executive purchases without competitive bidding and legislative review is alarming to those of us wanting good government practices.

Even President Biden has already spoken of the Covid-19 pandemic as being over. Gov. Hochul’s continued use of “emergency authorizations” lacking in oversight must be ended by us voting on

Election Day. It is obvious to many that a state governed by a governor and a legislature of the one and same party stifles democracy. As a voter who changed my party affiliation to “independent” years ago, I realize that the status quo in Albany must be changed.

Thanks again to Blank Slate Media for raising our consciousness by reporting the news that other news outlets choose to minimize or avoid. I look forward to my weekly print and email version of the Port Washington Times. It is a thoughtprovoking media source well worth the subscription cost.

Joseph Campbell Port Washington

Reject an undemocratic cult of personality

There are politicians running for office this November who still wallow, enthusiastically, in the Big Lie and defend the violent insurrectionists.

The MAGA fascist Trumputin personality cult is now firmly in control of what used to be a responsible Republican Party. Kevin McCarthy, the prospective speaker of the House should the MAGA fascists gain control, has stated that he will abandon Ukraine and thereby yield Europe

to Putin’s Russia. Perhaps he will do this right after he pushes through a nationwide ban on all abortion, no exceptions.

The MAGA Trumputin fascists shout about crime but refuse to address the flood of guns that can make all crime that much more devastating while offering no real solution. The MAGA fascists shout about the inflation that is a global problem, while voting against the Biden legislation that addresses it. The MAGA fascists

shout about the immigration issue at the southern border while discounting the fact that undocumented immigration at the southern border was at a 50-year low (under President Obama) until the Trumputin Wall nonsense became a talking point while ignoring the real causes and solutions.

A vote for any so-called Republican, at any level endorses Marjorie Taylor Greene and her antisemitic and racist Q-Anon nonsense.

A vote for any so-called Republican, at any level endorses the ongoing Trumputin coup and the violent insurrection that cost the lives of law enforcement. You can’t say that you are pro-police if you supported the coup attempt.

A vote for any so-called Republican, at any level endorses the Big Lie at the base of the Trumputin coup attempt and the resulting violent insurrection.

For the health of our democracy,

this band of unrepentant coup plotters and willing participants in insurrection must be defeated in November in order to cleanse the Republican Party of the pollution of the MAGA fascist Trumputin personality cult.

Vigorous policy debate is necessary for our system to function. There is no room for a fascist cult of personality that traffics in hate and delusion.

Eric Cashdan Sands Point

Vote for Hughes and Rusu in G.N. Library election

After attending the informative Meet the Candidate’s Night at the Great Neck Library, I now encourage everyone to vote for Jessica Hughes and Christina Rusu for the two trustee seats.

Jessica currently serves as the co-president of the PTO in one of our public schools. Her background in law and expertise in negotiations makes her a viable candidate to add to our Board.

She seemed well-versed on the issues facing our library and provided suggestions to enhance the library’s current offerings.

As the mother of special-needs children, she spoke passionately about creating programming that will appeal to kids like her own. Inclusivity is of paramount importance to me, and I was happy to hear all of what she had to say.

Christina is a criminal analyst for the NYPD. With such a background, she will make a great addition to our board as we need trustees who possess critical thinking skills and persistence.

During the meeting, she spoke about the need to organize programs at times that work for working parents. There are many programs available at the

library for all ages. But as she explained, their timing is usually at odds with a working- mom’s schedule.

She also spoke to her love of public libraries, specifically as an immigrant from a communist country. When asked a question about book censorship, she was quick to speak up and state why she is so vehemently anti-censorship.

In this election, voters will also have the opportunity to fill one open seat on the nominating committee. Sara Khodadadian is a preschool teacher’s assistant in a local school. She’s attended almost every library board meeting this year, and now has a

solid understanding of the role of trustees.

She mentioned that she worked with the library director to start an ‘Intro to Farsi class’, a language she had always wanted to learn. Sara seemed appreciative of all that our library offers, invested in the state of affairs, and most qualified to serve on the nominating committee.

I implore everyone to vote on Oct. 31 and cast their ballots for Jessica, Christina, and Sara.

Michelle Cohen Great Neck

Republican Santos wants to raise your taxes

This year’s Republican candidate for Congress, George Santos, is utterly unqualified to serve for a host of reasons. He has openly discussed personally offering financial support for Jan. 6 rioters, compared abortion to slavery, and has a suspicious financial background that includes his former employment at an investment firm the SEC charged to be operating a Ponzi scheme, which could explain why he hasn’t filed his required candidate financial disclosures. However, Santos should be further rejected by voters from across the political spectrum due to his failure to stand against tax increases for those he seeks to represent.

In 2017 Republicans in Congress passed a tax reform bill that lowered federal corporate and income tax rates while severely reducing deductions

afforded to taxpayers for state and local deductions. The plan offered a windfall for taxpayers in states like Texas, where there is no state income tax, as well as corporations that had their taxes lowered, but significantly increased the tax burden for New Yorkers.

Democrats uniformly voted against the bill and a handful of Republicans, including former GOP Long Island representative Peter King joined them in opposition. King blasted the law, saying the benefits to others were being “done at the expense of New York” and served as “a tax cut to many of the red states.”

Apparently blind to partisan allegiances, Santos has come out in favor of increasing taxes on those he seeks to represent. Santos described the deduction

as a “handout” in a November 2021 tweet, tweeted in support of Republican Mick Mulvaney after a CNBC debate with Congressman Tom Suozzi, who was arguing to reinstate the deduction in December 2020, and tweeted that the change “mainly affects high earners” in January 2021.

These positions are misguided, as analyses have shown that the majority of taxpayers in the 3rd District benefited from the deduction, clearly indicating the deduction provided value to more than just high earners. Moreover, the change pulls massive amounts of resources out of New York that would be used to stimulate our economy and sends them to other states. This was the key point former Congressman King was making and appears to be completely lost on Santos.

Democratic candidate for Congressman Robert Zimmerman has been unequivocal in his opposition to the tax change and in his support for a full restoration of the state and local tax deductions. He is an owner of a successful small business himself in Great Neck and has the good sense to know what will actually help those he seeks to represent. With voters rightfully concerned about rising inflation and potentially stormy waters ahead for the economy, Robert Zimmerman offers the far stronger option to represent us.

I am proudly supporting Robert and encourage Democrats, Republicans, and Independents to do the same.

Peter Fishkind Great Neck

Zimmerman will be a national asset in Congress

The time has come to clean up the congressional mess. We can’t wait much longer.

If you want to stop corruption in Congress, then go to Row A on Election Day and elect Robert Zimmerman to represent us in the Third Congressional District. You will be casting a vote for a highly qualified individual who is honest and has integrity. He cannot be bought. Unlike other candidates, he refuses to accept Political Action Committee monies and dark money contributions.

Do not settle for less by voting for George Santos, Mr. Zimmerman’s Republican opponent, to represent you in Congress. Santos bragged that he was present at the violent and unconstitutional attack on our government — the Jan. 6 insurrection – and to add salt to the wound, that afterwards he helped pay the insurrectionists’ legal fees. Absolutely outrageous.

Be careful. Money has corrupted our govern-

ment and democracy, leaving Republican electeds who care only about their power and money. They will do anything to consolidate power.

There are dire long-term national consequences due to dark money’s influence on legislation. Note that dark money donations are untraceable. In other words, our government has been and continues to be bought by the unknown. This is no way to run a country.

To demonstrate the impact of dirty money in politics, just check out PAC contributions to those members of Congress who voted against reducing drug prices, against climate change legislation, choice, banning assault weapons and for Trump’s big tax cuts for the rich, leaving many Americans to worry about making ends meet, thereby creating huge deficits Republicans claim to be against.

Just think about seniors and the indigent who can barely afford medications. Most importantly, think about the legacy we will leave our youth with a

Blakeman owes us an explanation on crime

The Oct. 14 issue of the Great Neck News reported that major crime has risen 34% in the first eight months of the year.

County crime statistics under the last three county executives have been released on a monthly basis. Why hasn’t the new county executive released crime statistics since March?

The Great Neck News to its credit obtained these stats by using the Freedom of Information Act to force the county to come clean on this upsurge in crime. This shouldn’t have been necessary.

Nassau Executive Bruce Blakeman has to be held accountable for his record fighting crime and must at

least be transparent on what his police are doing.

In the official Nassau newsletter, all he says about fighting crime is lobbying Albany. What new crimefighting strategies does he have? We know he is against sensible gun control.

Perhaps we can occasionally see a police officer walk the beat on Middle Neck Road or by the train station. Wouldn’t it be nice to see police outside their cars?

David Torby Great Neck

poisonous, disease-ridden, filthy climate.

There is no doubt that Mr. Santos will vote in lockstep with his party, not independently. Like the rest of his party, he will “obey” their leadership as they have been doing. For years, they have consistently voted and blocked highly important legislation to the detriment of our democracy and country. Again, they also voted in lockstep for a huge tax cut for the rich during the Trump administration, leaving many Americans wondering if they could pay rent or mortgages. Also ask why in the world would the Republicans block banning assault weapons legislation as children and adults continue to be murdered or maimed. It makes no sense and is downright evil.

As far as the issues are concerned, Robert Zimmerman truly understands and knows that human rights, including a woman’s right to choose, gay rights and voting rights, are critical to our society as is a clean environment and ad-

dressing climate change. He supports a federal ban on assault weapons, high-capacity magazines and ghost guns. When you go to the polls to vote, think about our beloved, innocent school children and how to best protect them from a murderous classroom assault.

Robert Zimmerman will be the ideal congressperson for these times. He has a keen grasp of today’s many critical issues and deeply cares about our community. I cannot think of a more honest, ethical and qualified individual to represent us in Congress than our very own Robert Zimmerman. Please vote Row A during early voting or on Election Day and elect him to Congress along with the rest of the Democratic ticket.

Our democracy and country need him badly, if not desperately. Time is of the essence.

Eleanor Lange Manhasset

AMERICAN CHAMBER ENSEMBLE AT HOFSTRA

The critically-acclaimed American Chamber Ensemble, celebrating its 57th Anniversary, will perform Exploring the Human Spirit – Part 1 on Sunday, Oct, 30 at 3 p.m. at Hofstra University’s Helene Fortunoff Theater in Monroe Lecture Center on California Avenue in Hempstead, presented by the University Music Department.

Composers to be performed include Villa-Lobos, Shostakovich, Bernhard Crussell, Mendelssohn and Ernest Bloch.

Performers will include violinists Eriko Sato and Deborah Wong, violist Lois Martin, cellist Chris Finckel, pianist Marilyn Lehman and clarinetist

Mindy Dragovich. Very Special Guest will be ACE Award Winner, pianist John Paul West.

Tickets, available at the door, will be $20 general admission; $15 senior citizen (over 65) or matriculated non-Hofstra student with ID. For ticket information, call 516-586-3433.

Directed by Marilyn Lehman, assisted by Mindy Dragovich, ACE was founded in 1965 by pianist Blanche Abram and clarinetist Naomi Drucker. In residence at Hofstra University, the ensemble explores the great chamber music literature for piano, strings, woodwinds and voice and presents performances featuring world-class artists.

ACE consists of the finest freelance musicians in the New York area and has been cited by critics for their superb presentations of chamber masterworks.

Their latest CDs on Elysium are “American Clarinet Treasures,” featuring core members of ACE performing works by George Kleinsinger, Virgil Thomson, Daniel Gregory Mason, Elliott Carter, Douglas Moore and Gary Schocker, with guest artist Stanley Drucker and The American Chamber Ensemble Plays Peter Schickele, which features five of this modern master’s most important chamber works.

For the latest American Chamber Ensemble concert listings, updates and information, log

on to http://americanchamberensemble.com/. Follow ACE on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Chamber-Ensemble/150032171984.

ACE’s concert season is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, as well as by individual contributions.

For more information about the American Chamber Ensemble, call Jeffrey James Arts Consulting at 516-586-3433 or email them at jamesarts@ att.net.

The basics of spinal surgery

spine, the human body would not have enough support to stand up straight. The spine is responsible for holding up the head, shoulders and upper body. It also gives the body enough flexibility to bend and twist.

OrthoInfo.com notes that the spine is made up of three segments. These segments produce the three C-shaped spinal curves. The top portion near the neck is the cervical spine. The middle segment is the thoracic spine and the lower region is the lumbar spine. Within the spine are small bones called vertebrae, which are stacked and create the natural curves of the back. These vertebrae protect the spinal cord and other nerve roots. Between the vertebrae lie intervertebral discs, which allow movement to take place. When components of the spine are not working correctly, it may result in pain, numbness in the extremities, reduced mobility, and other symptoms. Most patients who present with symptoms can be treated without surgery. However, in instances when symptoms related to spinal issues have not been remedied by other means, surgery may be recommended.

According to Penn Medicine, there are two different types of spinal surgery: minimally invasive spine surgery and

traditional spine surgery. Traditional surgery involves complete exposure of the spine anatomy. Minimally invasive spine surgery exposes less of the anatomy and utilizes surgical aides like spinal navigation to provide visibility into hard-to-view areas.

The health and wellness group

Peerwell says orthopedic surgeons and/or neurologists may recommend dozens of back and spine surgeries. Here’s a more in-depth look at some common spinal surgeries.

• Discectomy: This is a procedure for removing material that puts pressure on the spinal colum or nerve root. It is sometimes referred to as a herniated disc surgery or decompression surgery.

• Spinal fusion: This surgery typically involves fixing instability associated with degenerative disc disease, scoliosis or issues with spinal alignment and curvature. During this procedure, two or more vertebrae are fused to healthy bone and locked in place to stabilize the spine in a correct position.

• Laminectomy: This is another decompression surgery in which a part of the bone in the spinal column known as the lamina is cut away to expose the spinal canal. This is designed to relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord.

• Vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty: These are similar procedures that address vertebral compression fractures. Vertebral fractures can cause severe pain and produce a “hunch” deformity in some cases if left untreated. Osteoporosis or injury can cause compression fractures. With these procedures, bone cement is inserted into fractures to strengthen and lift.

Spinal surgeries are often the last resort when other options have proven ineffective. They can relieve pain and improve mobility but individuals should first consider all other options.

How to vote in Nassau County The Environmental Bond Act on ballot

Residents of Nassau County can vote by absentee ballot, early voting or on Election Day this year.

The deadline to register to vote in New York was on Oct. 14. One can request an absentee ballot online or by mail by Oct. 24. Furthermore, an absentee ballot can be requested in person by Nov. 7.

Absentee ballots must be returned by Nov. 8.

Between Oct. 29 and Nov. 6, people can vote in person at their early voting polling station. The following are the days and hours:

Sat, Oct 29 — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sun, Oct. 30 — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mon, Oct. 31 — 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tue, Nov. 1 — 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Wed, Nov. 2 — 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Thu, Nov. 3 — 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Fri, Nov. 4 — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sat, Nov. 5 — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sun, Nov. 6 — 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Otherwise, on Election Day (Nov.8), between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 p.m., voters may vote in person at their designated polling site.

Information on where to vote, registration status and an absentee ballot tracker can be found by visiting voterlookup.elections.ny.gov.

The single proposition up for a vote in New York this Election Day is the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022.

The act would allow the sale of state bonds up to $4.2 billion to fund environmental protection, natural restoration, resiliency and clean energy projects in order to address and combat the impact of climate change and environmental damage.

If approved, the proposal would allow the state to borrow up to $4.2 billion to provide funding for capital projects for restoration and flood risk reduction (at least $1.1 billion), open space land con-

servation and recreation (up to $650 million), climate change mitigation (up to $1.5 billion) and water quality improvement and resilient infrastructure (at least $650 million).

The proposal would also allow the state to repay the loan to benefit from reduced interest rates if the opportunity arose.

To do this, the proposal empowers the state Comptroller to issue additional state bonds in amounts equal to or greater than the amount of the bonds originally issued in order to refund, advance refund or otherwise return part or all of such obligations prior to their maturity dates.

Taxpayers And Families

by Friends of Ed Ra

BIOGRAPHY

Democrat Robert Zimmerman, 67, is a candidate for the state’s 3rd Congressional District running on the Democratic and Working Family Parties lines ahead of the Nov. 8 election. He is the co-president of ZE Creative Communications on Bond Street in Great Neck, a public relations firm he started 33 years ago with Ron Edelson and a Democratic national committeeman.

After graduating from Brandeis University, he worked as a congressional aide on Capitol Hill for Congressmen Lester Wolff, James Scheuer and Gary Ackerman. His advocacy also led to his being nominated by President Bill Clinton to serve on the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Presidential Commission on the Arts and by President Barack Obama to serve on the National Council on the Humanities.

Zimmerman was nominated by former President Bill Clinton to serve on the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Presidential Commission and by former President Barack Obama to

2022 ELECTION GUIDE

US House of Representatives - 3rd Congressional District

serve on the National Concil on the Humanities. Additionally, he served on the board of the American Museum of Natural History as a government representative for 20 years.

The Great Neck resident currently sits on the boards of the Center for an Urban Future, Reach Out America and the White Lotus Foundation. An openly gay man, Zimmerman has been honored by the the LGBTQ Network of Long Island and Queens and the Long Island Progressive Coalition and has served as president of the Great Neck B;nai B’rith and the American Jewish Congress Long Island Division.

THE ISSUES

Zimmerman is an advocate of preserving women’s reproductive rights, saying he would codify Roe v. Wade and vote to defend same-sex marriage, if elected.

Zimmerman has said he will push for the United States to be a global leader on women’s health and the right to a safe and legal abortion while trying to enhance family planning services and empower women economically.

Banning assault weapons, high capacity magazines and untraceable “ghost guns” are ways to enhance public safety, he said, but also end the rise in gun violence throughout the state. Enforcing universal background checks and strengthening red flag laws to prevent individuals with mental illnesses from obtaining weapons, Zimmerman said, will be another way he will combat gun violence, if elected.

Zimmerman has expressed

his commitment to funding law enforcement organizations and programs and to modify the state’s bail reform laws to tackle the rising crime rates throughout Nassau County and New York. He also said he will continue to stand up against hate crimes, in any form, and work with local communities to find ways to prevent hate crimes from occurring.

Tackling climate change, he said, will require the United States to be dependent on fossil fuels in the short term while strengthening domestic energy sources. Having a strong domestic presence for renewable energy, he said, wil provide jobs to many and promote a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle.

THE DISTRICT

The state’s 3rd Congressional District includes the entire Town of North Hempstead including parts of Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Garden City, Mineola and Westbury villages.

New district maps were submitted recently by a courtappointed special master and have been viewed as more neutral compared to ones that were previously rejected by the state Appeals Court.

While the 3rd Congressional District under the new proposal does not extend as far west as the Bronx or Westchester, it does stretch to more southern parts of Nassau County such as Hicksville and Massapequa. The new lines do exclude the parts of the district that now stretch into Suffolk County, mainly Huntington and Smithtown.

BIOGRAPHY

Republican George Devolder-Santos, 34, is a candidate for the state’s 3rd Congressional District, running on the Republican and Conservative lines ahead of the Nov. 8 election.

A first-generation American born in Queens, Santos’ parents immigrated to the United States in pursuit of the “American Dream,” something the candidate mentions he wants to help provide all his potential constituents with.

Santos has a background in Wall Street as a financier and investor, working extensively in capital introduction, real estate, biotech and capital markets. Santos, a Baruch College graduate, followed in his mother’s footsteps by participating in a variety of philanthropic work to help veterans and at-risk children.

Santos, who ran against Suozzi in 2020, was named a “Young Gun” candidate in the National Republican Congressional Committee’s Young Guns program earlier this year, his campaign said.

THE ISSUES

Santos is a strong opponent to the state’s bail reform laws, saying they should be repealed in order to combat rising crime rates on a local and statewide level. Santos lauds his respect for police unions and organizations and commits himself to bringing back federal funds to provide law enforcement groups with whatever they need to do their jobs effectively.

Record inflation rates are the result of the Biden administration, he said, with a lot of the financial stress directly impacting Long Island. Middleclass families should not have to worry about providing for their families and have shortages of necessities ranging from groceries to gas, he said. Reinstating energy independence, Santos said, is a step in the right direction to combat inflation.

Repealing the cap on state and local taxes to further aid middle-class families is something Santos said he will be sure to do if elected.

Santos is supporting legislation that would modify

the tax code to a flat tax rate in order to lower and simplify taxes. Slashing corporate income, marginal income and capital gains tax rates is also something he said he wants to accomplish in Congress.

Santos also bashed the Biden administration and the Democratic Party for their lack of commitment towards energy independence, again touting the need to create thousands of domestic jobs and lower the cost of living.

THE DISTRICT

The state’s 3rd Congressional District includes the entire Town of North Hempstead including parts of Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Garden City, Mineola and Westbury villages.

New district maps were submitted recently by a courtappointed special master and have been viewed as more neutral compared to ones that were previously rejected by the state Appeals Court.

While the 3rd Congressional District under the new proposal does not extend as far west as the Bronx or Westchester, it does stretch to more southern parts of Nassau County such as Hicksville and Massapequa. The new lines do exclude the parts of the district that now stretch into Suffolk County, mainly Huntington and Smithtown.

Robert Zimmerman

Democrat, Working Families Party

George Santos Republican, Conservative Party

US House of Representatives - 4th Congressional District

George Baker Scholar. Gillen’s early work in the legal sector included an internship for Hon. Marian Blank Horn of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. As an NYU law student, she worked at Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP , serving on cases involving defamation, employment, securities regulation and more.

for women to access the necessary health programs and family planning resources, she said, is also of vital importance to her.

BIOGRAPHY

Democrat Laura Gillen, 53, is a candidate for the state’s 4th Congressional District, running on the Democratic line ahead of the Nov. 8 election.

Gillen, who served as supervisor for the largest township in the United States from 2018 to 2019, was the first Democrat elected to the position in a century in an upset over incumbent Anthony Santino. Before being elected as supervisor, Gillen was interested in public service as a volunteer at South Nassau Communities Hospital and Camp Anchor.

A Georgetown University graduate, Gillen concentrated her studies on government, ultimately being honored as a

Gillen served her community throughout the coronavirus pandemic, volunteering with All Hands and Hearts, and distributing PPE to local police stations, businesses and health centers. Later on, she joined the Hofstra University faculty as an adjunct law professor.

THE ISSUES

Some of the issues facing the district that Gillen believes are the most pressing include the economy, crime, gun safety, women’s reproductive rights and voting rights. Gillen said working to repeal the cap on state and local taxes and providing financial relief for middleclass families are some of her top priorities if elected.

Getting illegal weapons off the street, she said, will aid in diminishing the growing crime rates throughout the district, along with sensible gun legislation and universal background checks. Removing hindrances

Long Island’s high rates of 1,4 dioxane in its water systems, she said, is something representatives need to help tackle. Protecting Long Island’s shorelines and waterways is a paramount concern of hers ahead of the November election.

After aiding some of the town’s rebuilding efforts years after Superstorm Sandy, she said, Gillen has the necessary experience to not only be prepared to combat environmental disasters but do whatever it takes to be fully prepared for them.

THE DISTRICT

The 4th Congressional District currently includes the communities of Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, East Meadow, the Five Towns, Lynbrook, Floral Park, Franklin Square, Garden City, Garden City Park, Hempstead, Atlantic Beach, Long Beach, Malverne, Freeport, Merrick, Mineola, Carle Place, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Uniondale, Wantagh, West Hempstead, Westbury and parts of Valley Stream.

BIOGRAPHY

Republican Anthony D’Esposito is a candidate for the state’s 4th Congressional District, running on the Republican and Conservative lines ahead of the Nov. 8 election.

D’Esposito, who represents the Town of North Hempstead’s 4th District, is a retired NYPD detective who lives in Island Park. As an NYPD detective, he made more than 600 arrests in connection with murders, assaults, bribery, shootings and possession of illegal firearms.

Aside from his service within town government, D’Esposito’s efforts during the recovery from Superstorm Sandy led him to be appointed co-chairman of the state’s Community Reconstruction Plan.

As a councilman, he has provided aid to local businesses, healthcare providers and families throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

He also serves on the RVC Speaks’ Board of Directors, an organization that promotes autism awareness and a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, 3rd Degree Knight along with the Knights of Columbus of Oceanside.

D’Esposito has also been recognized by several law enforcement organizations, including the Nassau County Sheriff ’s Correction Officers Benevolent Association for his public service.

THE ISSUES

D’Esposito said, if elected, he will look to cut crime throughout the 4th Congressional District and “be part of a team that is going to change the direction of New York state and America.” Federal resources are needed to protect the district and the entire country from illegal immigrants and drugs, he said.

He said he will continue to be an advocate for funding law enforcement organizations and said changes must be made to the state’s bail reform laws in order to combat the crime rate.

The councilman also mentioned his experience training Hempstead residents in the use of Narcan to help prevent deaths

New York State Assembly - 13th District

from the University of Wisconsin in 1969 with a B.A. in English Literature and from New York Law School in 1972. He has lived in Glen Cove since 1980.

er of a strong alliance between the US and Israel.

The Issues

from drug overdoses. D’Esposito said the issues are not Democratic or Republican issues, but American issues that need to be addressed.

Families and local businesses have suffered from a crumbling economy following the coronavirus pandemic, he said, which will require lifting regulatory barriers and lowering the tax burden in order for localities to rebound. Repealing the cap on state and local taxes, he said, is also something he will do if elected.

The Republican said he will not be another rubber stamp for the Biden administration and will do whatever he can to stop wasteful spending on the federal level. D’Esposito touted his work keeping taxes in Hempstead frozen during his tenure.

THE DISTRICT

The 4th Congressional District currently includes the communities of Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, East Meadow, the Five Towns, Lynbrook, Floral Park, Franklin Square, Garden City, Garden City Park, Hempstead, Atlantic Beach, Long Beach, Malverne, Freeport, Merrick, Mineola, Carle Place, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Uniondale, Wantagh, West Hempstead, Westbury and parts of Valley Stream.

Charles Lavine Democrat, Working Families Party

Biography

Charles Lavine, 75, is a longstanding figure in state politics, having represented District 13 since 2005. He is seeking re-election on the Democratic Party and Working Families Party lines.

Lavine also serves as chair of the Judiciary Committee and is a member of the committees on Codes, Ethics and Guidance, Rules and Insurance.

Growing up in Wisconsin and Michigan, Lavine graduated

Previously, Lavine served on the Glen Cove City Council, as a committee member, chairman and vice chair of the Glen Cove Democratic Committee and as a committee person for the Nassau County Democratic Committee. In 2004, he was elected to the state assembly.

Lavine spearheaded the push to bring Early Voting to New York State as chair of the Election Law Committee. He also served as chair of the Committee on Ethics and Guidance, co-chair of the New York State Legislative Ethics Commission and chair of the Taskforce that produced the Assembly Speaker’s Policy on Sexual Harassment, Retaliation and Discrimination.

Lavine is also the president of the National Association of Jewish Legislators’ New York Chapter and a member of its national board of directors. He is a staunch support-

Among Lavine’s top priorities are criminal justice, education and the environment, according to his campaign website.

Concerned about the number of veterans living in poverty and suffering from mental illnesses, he drafted legislation to identify former military members in need and coordinate the resources needed to better their lives.

Lavine was also a sponsor of the legislation that resulted in state-wide marriage equality.

The District

Assembly District 13 comprises Glen Cove, Sea Cliff, Plainview, Woodbury, Glenwood Landing, Cove Neck, Centre Island and Jericho as well as residents in parts of Bayville, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Laurel Hollow, Syosset, Old Bethpage, Bethpage, Hicksville, Westbury/New Cassel, Muttontown, Brookville, East Hills, Greenvale, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights and Roslyn Harbor.

Ruka Anzai Republican, Conservative Party

Biography

Ruka Anzai, 45, of Jericho, is a first-time candidate for Assembly District 13 on the Republican and Conservative tickets. She said sheis running because the government lacks common sense.

Born in China, educated in Japan and immigrated to the United States 12 years ago, Anzai has a degree and a professional background in engineering. She currently works for the

federal government as an IT Professional. She is also the vice president of the Jericho Republican Club.

Earlier this year, she was honored by Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Tom Hand for protecting the quality of life in her community and commitment to service.

Anzai has said theAmerican way of life is under attack. Recently approved bail regulations have “freed killers, drug dealersand gang members,” her campaign website states.She said that she will repeal hazardous bail policies and punish violent offenders accountable if elected.

The Issues

Her primary campaign messages include eliminating present bail laws, “refunding” the police and making the Property Tax Rebate permanent.

Anzai said that a genuine tax reduction is required. She also stated that she will seek to

make the gas tax rollback permanent as well as to eliminate congestion pricing.

The District Assembly District 13 comprises Glen Cove, Sea Cliff, Plainview, Woodbury, Glenwood Landing, Cove Neck, Centre Island and Jericho as well as residents in parts of Bayville, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Laurel Hollow, Syosset, Old Bethpage, Bethpage, Hicksville, Westbury/New Cassel, Muttontown, Brookville, East Hills, Greenvale, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights and Roslyn Harbor.

Lauren Gillen Democrat, Working Families Party

Anthony D’Esposito Republican, Conservative Party

Biography

Democrat Amanda Field, 46, is a candidate for the state’s 15th Assembly District running on the Democratic Party line ahead of the Nov. 8 election.

Field was elected Commissioner of the Plainview Water District in 2016 and is also a serving member of the state’s Clean Water Coalition.

Field, an Old Bethpage resident, helped secure over $28 million in grants to the Plainview Water District to treat for

2022 ELECTION GUIDE

New York State Assembly - 15th District

emerging contaminants and infrastructure improvements and was elected to the Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association. In 2021, Field served as the association’s president and currently is the Legislative Committee Co-chair of the Long Island Water Conference.

The candidate has also held a position on the New York State Regional Planning Consortium for Children and Families which is dedicated to the mental health and wellness of today’s youth.

Before running for office, Amanda was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 34, which prompted her to research local environmental issues about the cause of her diagnosis. She learned about water issues and that the only way to fix them was political.

Professionally, Field has spent over two decades working as a business executive.

The Issues

Field’s priorities are to protect our personal liberties such as freedom of choice; a

robust and well-funded police department that keeps us safe and keeps dangerous criminals off the streets; clean water for our families; and an education system that is not “one size fits all” and works for students with diverse needs and abilities, according to her campaign website.

Additional priorities include providing a road repaving plan, cut wasteful spending and revitalizing downtowns.

The District

New York’s 15th Assembly District includes Bethpage, Brookville, East Norwich, Farmingdale, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Glenwood Landing, Greenvale, Hicksville, Jericho, Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Levittown, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Plainedge, Plainview, Salisbury, Syosset, Roslyn Harbor, Upper Brookville and Woodbury.

Biography

Republican Jake Blumencranz is a candidate for the state’s 15th Assembly District running on the Republican and Conservative Parties line.

The 26-year-old Oyster bay resident works in insurance and also has an advisory board member role with the Nassau County Police Department Foundation.

Blumencranz graduated from Jericho High School before earning a dual Bachelor of

Arts degree in Public Policy and Religious Studies from Rice University and Master of Science in Regional Urban Planning and Economic Development at The London School of Economics.

After high school, Blumencranz began working for the Nassau County District Court

Blumencranz has a fourpoint plan that will permanently cut gas taxes, increase property tax breaks for homeowners, cut income taxes for middle-class families, and eliminate waste, fraud and abuse within the state budget, according to his campaign website.

Blumencranz also was one of a select group of College Republicans nationwide to lead a University Chapter, where he worked to promote free speech and diversity of thought on campus. Additionally, Blumencranz interned at Fox News and in the financial sector.

The Issues

Blumencranz’s priorities include combating high, rising crime and restoring Long

Island as a place where young people want to return to, call home, and raise their families.

On education, Blumencranz said he will advocate expanding alternative career pathways like trade schools and BOCES programs while also increasing parent rights in education and state funding for local schools.

On bail reform, Blumencranz is an advocate of giving judes more discretion in setting bail, according to his website.

The District

New York’s 15th Assembly District includes Bethpage, Brookville, East Norwich, Farmingdale, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Glenwood Landing, Greenvale, Hicksville, Jericho, Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Levittown, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Plainedge, Plainview, Salisbury, Syosset, Roslyn Harbor, Upper Brookville and Woodbury.

Jake Blumencranz Republican, Conservative Party

Amanda Field Democrat

Biography

Gina Sillitti, 44, of Manorhaven, has represented Assembly District 16 since 2021. She is running for re-election on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines.

Born and raised on Long Island, Sillitti attended the University of Georgia. Her nearly two-decade public service career began in the Nassau County Legislature.

Sillitti was appointed deputy commissioner of the Town of North Hempstead’s Department of Community Services in 2010.

Biography

Democrat Sanjeev Jindal is a candidate for the state’s 19th Assembly District running on the Democratic Party line ahead of the Nov. 8 election. Jindal, of Williston Park, is the CEO of Ace Agent Finan-

2022 ELECTION GUIDE

New York State Assembly - 16th District

During this time, she collaborated with a wide range of constituency groups, including the establishment of the first Asian American Festival Committee to promote cultural diversity.

Sillitti was then promoted to deputy chief of staff and director of legislative affairs, where she acted as a liaison to officials to ensure that initiatives, grant proposals and legislation received attention. Later, she was recruited to serve as director of human resources and compliance at the Nassau County Board of Elections in 2015.

Voters chose Sillitti to serve her first term as a state assemblywoman in 2020. She is proud of having been able to bring record levels of state financing for schools, local governments and police and first responders, allowing them to rely less on property taxes, her campaign website states.

The Issues

Among Sillitti’s top issues are community protection, gun safety and creating jobs. She said she will continue to fight for gun control and to

keep communities safe. She said she will also still bring in funds to ease the stress on taxpayers while maintaining school quality.

Sillitti also has made fighting for the environment a key tenet of her first term and seeks to continue to do so if re-elected. She is a supporter of the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022.

The act, if approved, would allow the sale of state bonds up to $4.2 billion to fund environmental protection, natural restoration, resiliency and clean energy projects in order to address and combat the impact of climate change and environmental damage.

The District Assembly District 16 comprises Great Neck, Manhasset, Port Washington, Herricks, Mineola, Baxter Estates, parts of East Williston, Old Westbury, Roslyn Estates, Roslyn, Albertson, Williston Park and New Hyde Park.

Biography

Vibhuti Jha, 70, of Port Washington, is a first-time candidate for the Republican and Conservative parties. A specialist in business turnaround and a former banker, he hopes to flip Assembly District 16 next month.

As an immigrant, Jha is focused on preserving the American Dream for families who call Long Island home, according to his biography. He seeks to take his business and finance experience to fix what

is wrong in Albany.

Jha earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Pune. He also earned a master’s degree in economics from the Gokhale Institute of Political and Economic Studies at the University of Pune, followed by a doctorate from Bhagalpur University. He later earned an MBA in international management from IMI India.

Jha arrived in the United States in 1991 to take on a leadership role with American Express Bank in order to cultivate and grow Indian-American commercial partnerships. He accomplished this by fostering bilateral trade and encouraging U.S. enterprises to explore India’s open markets with strategic intent and opportunity. First arriving in Los Angeles, he later moved to New York.

Jha now works as a turnaround strategy specialist for the Human Potential Project, a Seattle-based organization that helps companies in the United States build a performancebased culture in the workplace.

New York State Assembly - 19th District

cial LLC, an insurance brokerage company, and founded the nonprofit organization South Asians For Empowerment.

After arriving in the United States over 20 years ago, Jindal worked in a liquor store and drove a taxi cab before becoming a trained engineer and starting his own business.

Jindal has a degree in town and city planning from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar.

In 2021, Jindal was a candidate in the Democratic primary for New York City Council District 23.

The Issues Jindal is a supporter of a woman’s right to choose, affordable healthcare for all and ending gun violence, according

to his campaign website.

He supports lowering taxes and lessening regulations for small businesses, affordability and expanding science and technology programs in schools and curriculum that improves literacy, reading, writing and emphasizing the arts.

The District

New York’s 19th Assembly District stretches into North Hempstead, Hempstead and Oyster Bay. Communities include Franklin Square, West Hempstead, Garden City South, Garden City Park, New Hyde Park, North New Hyde Park, Westbury, Carle Place, Mineola, Williston Park, East Williston, Westbury, Old Westbury, Brookville, Old Brookville, Upper Brookville and Glen Head.

Ed Ra Republican, Conservative Party

Biography Republican Ed Ra, 40, is the incumbent for the state’s 19th Assembly District running on the Republican Party line ahead of the Nov. 8 election. He has been in his current post since 2013 and was previously the representative of the state’s 21st Assembly District from 2011 to 2013.

After graduating from Loyola College in Maryland,

Ra earned his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law in 2007 and a Masters of Laws degree from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in 2008.

Prior to his election to the state Assembly, Ra served as deputy town attorney for the Town of Hempstead and as a legal aide in the Office of the New York State Attorney General.

Ra serves as the Ranking Minority Member of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, which vets bills with fiscal implications. Previously, Ra served as Assistant Minority leader Pro Tempore and as Ranking Member of the Assembly Education Committee.

A Mineola native, Ra is a graduate of Chaminade High School and currently resides in Garden City South.

Ra’s father, Joe, was a former attorney and councilman for Hempstead and was a member of Hempstead government for nearly four decades.

The Issues

Jha claims that bail reform has freed killers, drug dealers and gang members and that if elected, he will strive to reverse these laws.

Jha also said that Long Islanders need tax relief, which he intends to provide by working to make the gas tax rollback permanent rather than an “election-time gimmick.” He also said that he will fight to have congestion pricing reversed.

The District Assembly District 16 comprises Great Neck, Manhasset, Port Washington, Herricks, Mineola, Baxter Estates, parts of East Williston, Old Westbury, Roslyn Estates, Roslyn, Albertson, Williston Park and New Hyde Park.

VOTE COUNT!

The Issues

Ra’s legislative priorities include emphasizing transparency and accountability in the state budget process, rooting out public corruption and promoting public safety, according to his Assembly page.

Ra told Blank Slate Media in a recent interview that he is in favor of more judicial discretion when it comes to cashless bail reform and is an advocate for better defining the “health of the mother” when it comes to abortion.

The District New York’s 19th Assembly District stretches into North Hempstead, Hempstead and Oyster Bay. Communities include Franklin Square, West Hempstead, Garden City South, Garden City Park, New Hyde Park, North New Hyde Park, Westbury, Carle Place, Mineola, Williston Park, East Williston, Westbury, Old Westbury, Brookville, Old Brookville, Upper Brookville and Glen Head.

— Franklin D. Roosevelt

Gina Sillitti Democrat, Working Families Party

Vibhuti Jha Republican, Conservative Party

Sanjeev Jindal Democrat

BIOGRAPHY

Democrat state Sen. Anna Kaplan (D-North Hills) is running for re-election to represent the state’s 7th Senate District. She is running on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines.

Kaplan, an Iranian immigrant whose parents sent her to the United States for her safety, was an active member of the Great Neck community before her time in government. She served a four-year term on the Great Neck Library Board and volunteered at her children’s schools.

Kaplan was elected to serve the Town of North Hempstead’s 4th District as a councilwoman in 2011. In 2016, she sought election to the House of Representatives but lost to current Rep.

2022 ELECTION GUIDE

New York State Senate - 7th District

Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove) in the Democratic primary. Kaplan defeated former Flower Hill Mayor Elaine Phillips in 2018 to represent the 7th Senate District.

In her first term as senator, Kaplan brought back funding for local public schools in Nassau County, passed a permanent cap on property taxes, helped pass landmark legislation protecting the rights of women, LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, and voters, and passed some of the nation’s strongest protections against senseless gun violence.

THE ISSUES

Kaplan said she supports the Equality Rights Amendment, which needs to pass two consecutive sessions of the state legislature before New Yorkers vote on making it an amendment to the state constitution in 2024.

She said she strongly supports abortion protections.

On the subject of bail reform, the incumbent said she had issues with the changes made, which were included in the 2020 budget. She said she voted for the budget because of the importance of the overall package but was open to changes in bail reform laws in the future.

She also touted her support for law enforcement, providing

$500 million in grants to various organizations including district attorneys and sheriff ’s offices during her tenure.

Standing up for hate crimes is something the Democrat said she will unapologetically continue to do, being a vocal advocate of Israel and condemning those who perpetuate and publicize stereotypes in the form of graffiti or hate mail. She has co-sponsored legislation to promote Holocaust education throughout New York’s schools and other bills aimed at combatting hate crimes throughout the state.

Supporting local businesses and various economic development projects, she said, has resulted in more jobs being made available to the public during her time in office, but said more can always be done.

THE DISTRICT

The state’s 7th Senate District includes Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Williston Park, Mineola, Garden City Park, North Hills, Albertson, Old Westbury, East Hills, Roslyn, Roslyn Harbor, Roslyn Estates, Albertson, Searingtown, Lake Success, Manhasset, Munsey Park, Plandome, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, and the Great Neck and Port Washington peninsulas.

BIOGRAPHY

Republican Jack Martins is a candidate for the state’s 7th Senate District, running on the Republican and Conservative lines ahead of the Nov. 8 election.

Martins, an Old Westbury resident who previously represented the 7th District from 2011-2016, served as Mineola’s mayor from 2003-2010. He also currently serves as an attorney for Harris Beach, PLLC.

In 2008, Martins ran an unsuccessful congressional campaign against former U.S. Rep. Carolyn McCarthy before defeating incumbent 7th District Senator and Democrat Craig Johnson in 2010.

The race against Johnson was one that did not get resolved until early December

due to Johnson demanding a recount of the votes, ultimately having his appeal denied by the state’s Court of Appeals.

After another failed attempt to get into Congress in 2016, losing to U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove), Martins shifted his focus to becoming Nassau County’s new county executive, following former County Executive Edward Mangano being indicted on federal corruption charges.

THE ISSUES

Martins has touted his dedication to provide law enforcement organizations with the resources they need to combating the crime rate. He has advocated for the need to repeal of the state’s cashless bail reform laws in response to the rise in crimes.

He said that judges are still not given enough discretion in various cases and it has made communities he has lived in less safe than ever before.

A rise in crime and high taxes, Martins said, are some of the biggest factors for individuals leaving New York. Making Nassau County a more affordable place for current and future generations, he said, will require having a more sustainable economy and lower taxes.

He also attributed the trend

to a lack of parental discretion and more statewide mandates. Martins acknowledged the hardships the coronavirus pandemic had on all individuals, but referred back to giving parents discretion over what is best for their children.

Martins said he would continue to work at his practice if elected, and that his other profession did not previously interfere with representing the 7th Senate District. If the state were to implement a ban on outside employment, Martins said, he would have to decide what makes sense for him and his family.

Martins also expressed he is “tired” of having prominent state government officials coming from the same political party.

THE DISTRICT

The state’s 7th Senate District includes Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Williston Park, Mineola, Garden City Park, North Hills, Albertson, Old Westbury, East Hills, Roslyn, Roslyn Harbor, Roslyn Estates, Albertson, Searingtown, Lake Success, Manhasset, Munsey Park, Plandome, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, and the Great Neck and Port Washington peninsulas.

Jack Martins Republican

Anna Kaplan

Democrat

ELECTION GOALS AND TARGETS

As a person who has immigrated to the United States, I am keenly focused on preserving the American Dream for families who call Long Island home. I am ready to take my

Cashless Bail Laws, which have freed killers, drug dealers and gang members, to the utter disregard of the law-abiding citizens. I will work towards reversing the dangerous bail laws. Long Islanders need real tax relief. i will push to make the gas tax rollback permanent instead of it being an election commuter tax , aka congestion pricing.

In addition, we need to restore the policies that made America the most prosperous country in the world where people aspire to migrate to at any given point in time. Becoming via failed socialist policies. I will work towards ensuring the aspire to achieve. Beware of those who talk about offering

JHA IS FIGHTING FOR SAFE

build and develop Indo -US business relationships. He accomplished that by promoting businesses between the two countries and encourage US businesses to explore the huge open markets of India both with strategic intent and opportunities. He was responsible for tapping and utilizing the opportunity on the West Coast and was located in Los Ange-

proudly belongs to a band of a few good men who led the initiative in developing the Indian marketplace for American businesses. Prior

Corporate and private banking and the Reserve Bank of India in compliance and control functions.

He is a turnaround strategy specialist with the Human Potential Project , a Seattle based company, to establish performance based culture in workplace for US based companies.

and Psychology from the prestigious Fergusson College in Pune under the auspices of

PhD from Bhagalpur University. He subsequently completed MBA in International Manage-

Vibhuti is an entrepreneur at heart and after seeing the lack of awareness about Indian culture and history here in the US, he designed , edited , presented as the anchor, TV

problem has a solution and it can be done if one commits to it. In essence Vibhuti is a problem solver.

Vibhuti has been practicing Transcendental Meditation and breathing practices for the past 35 years and he believes that its key to maintain and manage a holistic wellness life. He is married to Shobhana for over 35 years and their son Aditya obtained his Masters from Columbia University has his own consulting practice

Anna Kaplan a true advocate of gun safety

My son was a teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL., who was murdered during the horrific shooting that took place Feb. 14, 2018. There is not a day that goes by where I do not think of him. No mother, family member, friend or co-worker should ever have to go through what I did that day.

Over the last four years, far too many have lost a loved one to gun violence .this must stop! We cannot allow the gun lobby to continue holding us hostage. State Sen. Anna Kaplan has a well-earned F rating from the NRA. Senator Kaplan puts the safety of her constituents first.

Everyone has the right to be safe and everyone has the right to live without fear.

We need leaders like Senator Kaplan with the courage to stand up to the gun lobby. I am proud to work alongside my friend, state Sen. Anna Kaplan, to fight for commonsense gun safety.

Sen. Kaplan sponsored the Scott J. Beigel Unfinished Receiver Act, named after my son. This legislation bans dangerous and untraceable ghost guns (guns

without serial numbers) in New York. Anna has been astrong supporter of the Scott J. Beigel Memorial Fund, which provides camperships to help send at-risk children touched by gun violence to summer sleep-away camp. The goal is to help stop the cycle of violence by keeping children off the streets away from guns and gangs.

Our community and our country have so much at stake this November. Gun violence and our right to safety are on the ballot. I am proud to support my friend Anna Kaplan for re-election to the New York State Senate. I hope you will join me in voting for Anna on Nov. 8.

Linda Beigel Schulman Dix Hills

Lancman offers leadership skills to GN Library board

Iwrite in support of Rory Lancman as member of the Great Neck Library Board of Trustees.

Rory has an outstanding record of experience that highly qualifies him to serve our community as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Great Neck Library.

He has high-level governmental experience, having served as a member

of the New York State Assembly and as a former member of the New York City Council. In the latter position, he helped oversee the Queens Public Library’s budget and operations.

Rory’s administrative expertise has resulted in his having been appointed to important administrative assignments by our state governmental leadership. A father of three, Rory knows how important

our library is to Great Neck families.

The Great Neck Library is one of the most valued and important resources of our community. It serves our entire community with a wide variety of resources and programs. Rory has stated that he wants “to ensure that our library works for everyone.”

Rory’s experience and skills demonstrate to me that he will be able to deliv-

er on this very important commitment.

Institutions are enriched and strengthened by leadership with varying viewpoints, but it is critical that such leadership achieves consensus and works together to advance the important goals of the institution. I am confident that Rory will be a strong unifying force in helping the Library Board work together to continue providing our com-

munity with the outstanding library that has served Great Neck well for many years.

I will vote for Rory Lancman to be elected as a trustee of the Great Neck Library. I urge my fellow residents of our community to do the same.

Ted Rosen Great Neck

Tracking real costs of LIRR service to Grand Central

Who knew that there were three sets of Metropolitan Transportation Authority books for Long Island Rail Road East Side Access To Grand Central Terminal now known as Grand Central Madison?

(Source: “Tunnel Of Deceit The BillionDollar Tunnel Shim Sham” by Clayton Guse, New York Daily News — Oct. 16).

One, internal within the MTA, a second to the Federal Transit Administration and a third to the MTA Board.

MTA Chairman Janno Lieber and Gov. Kathy Hochul, never shy around a microphone or camera, have never held a press conference to acknowledge that debt service payments for the cost of borrowing brings the true project cost to $12.2 billion. Debt service costs are buried under a separate agency operating budget.

There is another set of books that includes over $4 billion more for indirect

costs for what is known as LIRR readiness projects to support ESA service to Grand Central Madison. They take place east of the Woodside Harold Interlockings and are carried off line from the official project budget. These include the $2.6 billion Main Line Third Track, $450 million Jamaica Capacity Improvements, $387 million Ronkonkoma Double Track, $120 million Ronkonkoma Yard Expansion, $44 million Great Neck Pocket Track, $423 million for rail car fleet expansion and others that are necessary for implementation for ESA.

Without these projects, the LIRR would lack the expanded operational capabilities to support both promised 24-rush-hour train service to Grand Central Madison along with a 40% increase in reverse peak rush hour service. Any honest transportation project cost allocation plan would include these expenditures. This would bring the full true cost of ESA

to $16.2 billion.

MTA ‘s inability to provide a specific date for start of service to Grand Central Madison other than by the end of 2022 is dishonest. There is a specific agreed-upon revenue service date in both the amended FTA Full Funding Grant Agreement with MTA along with the current project construction recovery schedule. It is dishonest for the MTA to claim that the project is proceeding on schedule and within budget.

Since 2006, this project has had numerous construction recovery schedules to make up for lost time. In 2022, the project is proceeding under the most recent current project construction recovery schedule. The budget has increased on several occasions from $6.3 billion to over $11 billion in recent years.

Each time the project has been delayed since 2006 from the agreed-upon FFGA completion date of 2013, the MTA

has to keep its own Construction Management firm, Independent Engineering Project Management Oversight firm, Office of Capital Construction, LIRR Force Account and other employees on the payroll assigned to ESA for nine more years than originally forecasted in 2006. How much has all of this cost the MTA during the life of this project?

There will still be outstanding work remaining, when service begins to Grand Central Madison. How many of the 72 ESA contracts have already been or will be closed out by December 2022? Many contracts will still the need completion of all contract punch list items (to insure the contractors built the asset to meet design and engineering contract specifications), receipt of all asset maintenance manuals for any project components worth $5,000 or more under each of the remaining open contracts, payments for outstanding bills, and release of contract retainage to

contractors.

Some contractors may submit claims for additional reimbursement for work based upon delays attributed to insufficient track outages or force account support from both Amtrak and LIRR. It may be several more years before all 72 project contracts are closed out. At that point, ESA will really be 100% complete. Only then, will the final true project cost be known.

Was investing $12.2 billion in direct costs for ESA worth it? The verdict is still out. Time will tell if commuters and taxpayers will see all of the benefits from this project promised by elected officials, MTA and LIRR Presidents.

On ‘parental choice,’ accusations of pornography

As you may be aware, there is a library board election coming up on October 31st. One of the hotly debated topics during this election has been what books should and should not be offered in our library, especially to children.

I’m a writer and journalist, a former college English instructor, a mother of two, and a long-time Great Neck resident. In light of recent comments on social media and elsewhere, as well as certain statements that our board candidates have made, I want to make a few points, centered around two themes: parental choice and pornography in the library.

Parental Choice

“Parental choice” and “parental input” are concepts our candidates and community members have advocated for when it comes to the type of books that our library offers.

These concepts may sound innocent enough, but with people on all sides having strong views on what literature is or isn’t appropriate for children, things can get dicey quickly.

Historically, “parental choice” in libraries is how book bans start. Just as we should leave the question of what should be taught in our schools to our highly trained educators, we should leave the acquisition of library books up to our highly trained librarians.

Currently, “parental choice” is a term and concept that is being used across the country by right-wing crowds to argue for both curriculum changes in schools (often centered around race, sex, and gender) as well as book removal in libraries. Nothing about what is happening in Great Neck is unique: this is part of a country-wide movement.

The books that are being discussed as

problematic are also the same books being challenged across the country. Google “book banning in libraries” and you will see the same exact same titles people in Great Neck are complaining about. Again, this is all part of a calculated political movement.

Accusations Of Pornography

You have likely seen residents in Great Neck accuse the library of offering pornography to children. This too is part of a larger political movement to censor libraries and to infringe upon intellectual freedom.

Some of the candidates running for our library board are backed by people who don’t think children should be exposed to books with LBGTQ themes or books that depict sex in any manner, even educationally. They are calling awardwinning literature “pornography.”

Many of the books being singled out

are award-winning books and bestsellers that are housed in libraries across America.

Literature, even for tweens and teens, sometimes contains sex. This is not new. The difference between literature and pornography is that literature tells a story, and is based on human experiences.

Some of these experiences can be challenging. Literature has always been challenging, but that doesn’t mean we remove it from our libraries.

Some books about sex for tweens and teens describe how their bodies work. Sometimes there are images of bodies and even of sex. This is not new and this is how sex education works.

If you don’t want your children to view these books, you can supervise them at the library.

Taking a photo of one page or image from a book doesn’t tell you anything

about the context of the book, and context is everything when you are talking about understanding literature and the themes of a book. Isolated images are just for shock value.

Finally, most of the books that are being singled out in these discussions are books that speak to the LGBTQ+ community. Often tweens and teens in this community feel alone and unsupported. Books can be a lifeline for them, and should not be removed just because some people are uncomfortable with them.

Please come out and vote on Oct. 31. I strongly support Mimi Hu and Rory Lancman for the board, and Kim Schader for the nominating committee. They are staunchly against censorship of any kind and support an inclusive environment for the library.

Wendy Wisner Great Neck

Larry Penner Great Neck (Retired former director, Federal Transit Administration, NY Region Office of Operations and Program Management)

Don’t forget heating bills follow pump prices

The headline focus has been on the gas price at the pump. Unfortunately, our elected leaders both in D.C. and Albany have lost sight of the fact that home-heating prices, both oil and gas, have skyrocketed.

Last year home-heating oil cost about $3.25 on a ceiling contract with Petro. This year the sky is the limit. A quick check on the NYSERDA website shows that the average price of homeheating oil as of when this is written for

Long Island is $5.97 per gallon. If you use 200 gallons per month, you will pay an additional $544 per month.

Democrats blame greedy oil companies. Republicans blame green energy zealots. We ordinary citizens are stuck

in the middle as politicians compete for power playing to their base.

Here’s a novel idea: Plan for a future that transitions away from fossil fuels over the next 30 years while making certain that affordable fossil fuel is available.

Our current elected leaders seem not to be able to act in our interest. Perhaps it is time to fire all of them on Nov. 8.

Michael Chartan Great Neck

Why Anna Kaplan is better choice for state Senate

I’m very proud to support Sen. Anna Kaplan’s campaign for re-election to New York State Senate District 7. We all lived through Sandy and Isaias, and they were devastating for my family. It seems obvious that 500-year-floods are now a yearly occurrence. Climate

change is impacting everyone now and we need leaders like Anna Kaplan who are willing to stand up to protect our environment.

Anna Kaplan has shown she is the leader we need. She has been endorsed by both the New York League of Conser-

vation Voters and the Sierra Club of Long Island. Sen. Kaplan has led the fight in New York to ensure we have clean drinking water, to ban toxic chemicals in toys and household products, and to stop powerful oil interests from drilling right off our shoreline.

We know the Republican Party, with the backing of the oil lobbyists, has stood in the way of protecting our environment for decades. Her opponent, Jack Martins, has openly advocated to increase offshore drilling.

If you don’t vote, you will effectively

be casting a ballot for the other candidate. Because we need to work hard for our environment, please join me in voting for our state Sen. Anna Kaplan on Nov. 8.

Star Anthony Port Washington

Hu, Lancman best qualified to lead G.N. library

It’s hard to believe that in 2022 we are still debating whether young adults should be allowed access to books about gender and race, but here we are: Our upcoming Great Neck Library board election on 10/31 is the latest battle in the partisan culture wars that are infecting school and library board elections nationwide, and it is more important than ever for people to get out and vote.

There is a hateful, homophobic video circulating on social media that contains false accusations of pornography in the children’s section of our library. This despicable scare tactic asks people

to support Jessica Hughes, the candidate opposing the incumbent board President Mimi Hu.

Despite being asked repeatedly if she would denounce that video, candidate Hughes has remained silent. That alone should tell you something, along with her repeated statements in support of “parental input” on book selection and her demonstrated ignorance of the programs already in place at the Great Neck Library. She has suggested starting a book club; in fact, all our branches have had book clubs for years as well as frequent author talks and book signing events.

Our library is one of the jewels in our community and has thrived under Mimi Hu’s leadership of the board, continuing to serve patrons while adapting to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. New and innovative programming, green initiatives, negotiating a union contract for staff, hiring a permanent library director, and restoring vital services from the Nassau Library System are just a few of her many accomplishments since her election in 2018, all achieved with zero budget increase.

At the League of Women Voters’ Candidate Forum on Oct. 6, each candidate was asked to name the last book they’d

taken out of the library, and Ms. Hughes stated that as a working mother of young children, she “barely has time to read a pamphlet.” One wonders how she would have the time to read through the library board meeting packages, which can run into the hundreds of pages. She also evaded answering questions about book banning, offering vague statements about seeking input from parents.

You don’t have to take my word for it — watch the video for yourself and listen to the candidates. It is available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/cLVjlaDkz6I. The choice is clear. Only Mimi Hu and Rory Lancman had the courage to

speak out against censorship. They are the most qualified and the best candidates for our library board.

Please vote in this very important election on Monday, Oct. 31, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Vote in person at the Main Library (for residents living north of Northern Blvd) and Parkville Branch (for residents living south of Northern Blvd).

For trustee: Mimi Hu

For trustee: Rory Lancman

For nominating committee: Kim Schader

Nina K. Gordon Great Neck

DeSena deception exposed in budget proposals

We’ve all heard the old story of a young George Washington uttering the famous phrase

“I Cannot Tell a Lie.” Unfortunately, when it comes to North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, she cannot tell the truth. Even before taking office, she has notoriously reversed course on a number of positions and statements after getting caught in a lie. And at the Oct. 20 Town Board, she embarrassed herself once again after being exposed as a complete fraud.

Let’s backtrack to September. Supervisor DeSena released a tentative budget document with a modest 2% tax

increase. It was what many would have called a reasonable budget. The document was unlikely to receive any criticism from her colleagues on the Town Board, and it was probably going to pass unanimously. Then came the newspapers. “Bad” headlines ran, highlighting her desire to hike taxes, and that’s when the calls starting flowing in.

Republican leadership, in North Hempstead and throughout Nassau County, berated DeSena for doing the unconscionable — raising taxes. It was against the Republican brand and infuriated her political masters. Marching orders were given, go back to the draw-

ing board and lower those taxes. As usual, DeSena couldn’t simply be honest and admit a new-found desire to modify the budget based on political backlash. DeSena’s crack PR whiz instructed her to blame the urgent about face on a sudden discovery.

The Town’s fund balance policy had been withheld from her by the evil Democrats! Yeah, that’s the ticket. There’s just one problem. She had the policy all along. What’s more, there was tangible proof in the form of various documents produced by her office, dating back to at least March 1 — seven months before her feigned shock over a miraculous dis-

covery.

So it was Robert Troiano, Peter Zuckerman, Veronica Lurvey, and Mariann Dalimonte — the Democratic contingent on the North Hempstead Town Board — who exposed yet another blatant lie from DeSena. After being called out at a public meeting, DeSena had yet another deer-in-the-headlights moment. Stunned silence for 10 painful seconds when called out. In the midst of her desperation, flailing around out of control, she scrambled by calling up her master of the filibuster, Shadow Supervisor Joe Scalero.

Sadly for the GOP , not even the

glib Scalero could provide enough misdirection to divert anyone’s attention from what was just brought to light — DeSena’s latest whopper. No amount of jibber jabber about the mysterious “missing files” or her perpetual victim complex can overshadow what everybody knows.

DeSena is incompetent, and she’s failed as a leader. We’ve had enough of the inaction. We’ve had enough of the lies. DeSena basically has two choices: resign now, or be fired next November.

Eric Lawrence Manhasset

Stop sign violation? Pay $250 for jaywalking instead

Afew weeks ago, I detailed to your readers a persistent abuse of local taxpayers, as witnessed by my wife and me — and corroborated by so many local residents/respondents at the traffic court.

Undoubtedly, there are people disobeying our laws and endangering the public. That said, a great many are falsely accused of running stop signs in Great Neck. There is outright perjury committed by some officers issuing tickets they

know accuse drivers falsely. By whom and why this is being orchestrated against a law-abiding and supporting local population is beyond me. I detailed, for instance, that my wife is utterly obsessed with vehicular safety, having had two family friends in New Jersey die at the hands of a tractor trailer driver after they had run a red light.

In the most recent instance, she was again falsely charged with running a stop sign on Old Mill Road. She even purpose-

fully made eye contact with the officer parked in the Temple Israel driveway out of understandable “fear” before proceeding to be “triple sure” that her stop endured at least long enough for a tortoise to cross. But, alas, she was pulled over yet again on the same false charge of “running a stop sign.”

And so, once again, she went to the traffic court — like the others — and was again sternly informed by the clerk of the consequences available in points and

increased fines should she press her just case. She was yet again coerced to pay $250 for a false charge of jaywalking.

At this point, my wife is a serial jaywalker. This is a remarkable feat in a community where many only walk the streets on the sabbath or to get to the school track for their exercise. I have become concerned that so recidivist a jaywalker as my wife might be locked up, thus depriving me of proper nourishment.

But upon reflection, I consoled her

that with all the hooligans on streets and public transportation in our state having been peremptorily released by no-bail Democrats in the Assembly, state Senate and the Executive Mansion that — other than Rikers — the prisons might be a safe haven.

I think it’s time the authorities let us in on what’s going on here. Enjoy your ride.

Wiesenfeld Great Neck

Business&RealEstate

Trade offs to consider in home sales

Most consumers who were or are still looking to buy are somewhat aware of what is occurring in our economy. Serious decisions for so many as to whether to buy, rent or just sit tight where they are have come into play over the last year as rates have doubled.

Even when the desired home is found and there is an agreed and accepted price between seller and buyer, this is the first step in the process. Next, an inspection needs to be completed to determine whether or not you are purchasing a “money pit” with thousands of dollars of additional costs creating an expense that you didn’t anticipate. Lately, most contracts are subject to an inspection, written mortgage approval and, of course, your attorney’s review of all documents

When the market was in a feeding frenzy, there were buyers who waived their inspection as well as the mortgage contingency, leaving them in a somewhat precarious position. This could be a real financial problem if any issues came about with the home or if they had to come up with more money if the appraisal was less than the selling price. Another question to ask yourself is should you lock in your interest rate right now anticipating another rate

hike on Nov. 1?

With all that being said, you need to be much more cognizant of what you are purchasing and the terms and conditions that you are agreeing to. Lately, I have seen that some sellers are now agreeing to a certain number of repairs or a credit towards fixing them.

A few smart sellers are beginning to offer short-term 5-to-10 year financing with lower interest rates, just to make a transaction happen. As demand has been reduced by higher rates, sellers must begin to think outside the box if they really have a need to sell. Then again, as I have mentioned in a previous column, those who might be hesitating to move due to leaving their lowinterest mortgage for a new higher rate might find seller financing to be more advantageous with lower closing costs.

If you are a real seller who doesn’t need all the proceeds upon the sale, then this is an opportunity to consider and become creative and earn a greater return than what a bank or credit union is offering with much less risk than trying to be a stock picker in the current market. If you have substantial capital gains, providing your purchaser a mortgage, and spreading out your taxable gains over the term of the mortgage

A. RAICES

Real Estate Watch

will enable you to not have to pay it all upfront.

You now have security by being a lien holder in the first position, similar to a bank. Also, if the buyer wanted to extend the mortgage, then the seller’s capital gains could be spread out even further. This situation could be a real win/win for both seller and buyer and allow more homes to be sold. I would suggest that you discuss this with your CPA and financial planner and strat-

egize this in advance to know your options and the best path to pursue.

Throughout approximately the last 150 years real estate has returned on average 8%. But over the last 50 years a much higher return has been gained due to inflation and supply and demand economics, as per the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco (frbsf.org).

Obviously, past history is never a guarantee of your future returns. Timing the market to purchase will never work. You have to determine whether buying and building long-term equity or renting now and giving away money monthly (with increases), based on your family’s financial position and capability, is in your best interest in building long-term wealth.

Finding your first or next home in today’s environment may take longer, and realizing trade-offs will be part and parcel of the purchasing process. However, it is crucial for buyers and sellers to work with each other in a mutually beneficial, pragmatic situation so this can inevitably conclude with more very happy endings.

Tip of the Week: As leaves are falling, they are beginning to clog your gutters and leaders. You Will need to regularly remove and clean them as

necessary or consider installing screening or custom covers to eliminate the issue going forward. Clogged gutters could create greater damage, by having water back up inside your soffits and then inside your walls later on. Also, if you haven’t already, cover or store all your outdoor furniture, gas grill, and hoses.

Continue to Donate to the Ukrainian Crisis and save a life or 2: IOM’s Ukraine Response

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

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

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Renew LLC and ProHEALTH Dental announce a strategic partnership to rapidly expand Renew’s existing footprint with new surgical center locations across the New York Tri-State area and New England.Founded by Dr. Don Miloni, a 40-year dental industry pioneer, Renew is transforming the dental market with its proprietary fixedremovable, full-mouth restorative process that can be completed in a one-day procedure.

Miloni, a founder of ClearChoice, created Renew with the idea of providing a product grounded in state-of-the-art technology at a price point that is broadly accessible. “Our strategic partnership with ProHEALTH Dental will give our innovative solution an opportunity to expand immediately in the Northeast where an affordable solution is so desperately needed. We’re committed to delivering the most advanced dental implant technology possible, a superior patient experience, and a lifetime

Business&RealEstate

Return of Daniel Gale gold getaway

guarantee—all for up to a third of traditional costs” said Dr. Miloni.

ProHEALTH Dental is a national leader in the provision of oral health services through the integration of dental and medical services by entering into clinical affiliation agreements with large healthcare providers, including hospital systems and large medical groups.

ProHEALTH Dental currently provides services at 17 locations in the Tri-State metropolitan New York area, with plans to expand throughout the Northeast.“Renew’s partnership with ProHEALTH Dental combines two organizations that are on the cutting edge of the dental industry,” said Peter Abruzzo, president of Renew. “We are dedicated to taking a holistic approach in keeping our communities healthier and partnering with ProHEALTH Dental helps us foster this perspective through access to its broad network of healthcare providers. What we do at Renew is unique and supported by patented

technology; it’s both an art and a science. Simply put, it’s Science. With a Smile.”“We are honored to be working with Renew to advance the oral and overall health of the many patients we serve,” said Norton Travis, chief executive Officer of ProHEALTH Dental. “Renew’s vision aligns with the mission and clinical goals of ProHEALTH Dental and our dedication to patients is unwavering. This partnership reinforces our commitment to provide a high quality of clinical care to keep our patients healthy and leading productive lives.”

STORY3 Capital Partners, an alternative asset manager focused on the consumer value chain, has partnered with Renew to help finance the accelerated roll-out of its surgical centers and further bolster the trusted Renew brand. Together, with the help of ProHEALTH Dental, this first-class team is revolutionizing the dental space with solutions that make beautiful, strong teeth accessible to all.

Renew, ProHEALTH Dental in strategic partnership Sports

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty (DGSIR), one of the nation’s leading realtors and the top-ranked luxury real estate organization serving Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens recently hosted a turbo-charged weekend of networking and team building for its top-producing real estate advisors at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

The organization’s top earners enjoyed four days of professional development events and top level networking sprinkled with leisure activities of their choosing.

“It was a fabulous trip that succeeded on many levels,” explained Deirdre O’Connell, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s chief executive officer.

“We reconnected with old friends and forged new relationships among our highest achievers. Our Gold Circle gatherings help our professionals take their careers to the next level. We all grow as individuals and as a company.”

Gold Circle of Excellence is the highest designation of achievement at Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Re-

alty, reserved for the top 10 percent of its real estate advisors. The next levels of achievers are recognized with the Silver Circle of Achievement and the Sterling Silver designation.

Previous Gold Circle of Excellence destinations include Palm Beach, Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Canyon Ranch, New Orleans, and South Beach, to name a few. This was the first Gold Circle trip since 2019, with Gold Circle members from 2019, 2020 and 2021 in attendance.

“So much has transpired since we last met in a large group setting,” added O’Connell. “We have been tested these last couple of years, to say the least; first by the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 shutdown, followed by the hottest real estate market in history. In addition to deserved commendation, real estate advisors whose businesses thrived under these challenging conditions have so much to share amongst each other. Whenever we get together it is an unequaled opportunity to bond, celebrate, learn, network, refer business and have a blast.”

Klimuszko

star and motivator, too

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

It doesn’t happen every day at practice, but it happens often enough that Shea Panzik has come to expect it.

When the Manhasset field hockey team is perhaps acting too tense, or having a lackluster performance on the field, the team’s best player will morph into a Columbian-born singing superstar.

That’s right: Senior Lily Klumszko will channel her inner Shakira, and start shaking her hips and swaying to the beat.

“She does a great Shakira impression,” Panzik revealed with a laugh. “She sings “Hips Don’t Lie” and she does Shakira’s voice and her movements and the whole thing and it’s hilarious.

“She just makes practices and ev-

erything else so much fun.”

Klimuszko, who shares a hair color with Shakira but not much else, does her most important work on the field. The senior forward had a stellar 2021 season for the Indians, with 11 goals and four assists, and this fall has continued to excel.

She has tallied five goals and nine assists in 13 games, as Manhasset has rolled to a 12-1 record in search of a county and state title.

“She’s adjusted her game this year so well because we’ve asked her to be more of a facilitator,” said head coach Steve Sproul. “She’s just gotten better and better and she knows how to find her teammates in the right spots.”

Klimuszko has been a starter for four seasons for Manhasset and stamped her name in school lore by scoring the winning goal in the county championship game as a sophomore

in April 2021, the Indians’ first county crown in nine years.

For Klimuszko, this season has been special not just because Manhasset has been winning (they almost always have in field hockey) but because her new role in her final season has fit her so well.

“In years past we had more prominent midfielders, and so that wasn’t my role (to pass) as much,” she said. “Now, this year I feel like I’ve got such great teammates and I’ve been looking to set them up.”Panzik said the key to her friend’s success is positioning.“She’s always in the right place at the right time, and she knows how to finish,” Panzik, a junior, said. “She’ll be carrying the ball down the right side and setting us all up, and when she’s close to the net she’s got her stick down in the middle just waiting to score.“She’s just the epitome of

a great captain and teammate, and is so funny to be around.”

Klimuszko’s love of field hockey came early; her sister Maggie, older by six years, is a former Manhasset star who taught Lily the game.

“I was the kid tagging along asking everyone to play with me,” Lily said. “I just remember Maggie would always want me to help her practice, and she taught me so much of what I know now, and that helped me get good for my age when I was younger.”

For Klimuszko, what drives her is the desire to please, whether it’s teachers, friends or her parents, Louise and Peter.

“I don’t ever want to disappoint people; I just like making them proud,” she said. “Whatever I do, if I’m in the newspaper or I’ve done some accomplishments, what makes me feel good is making my parents proud.”

When Klimuszko started on varsity as a freshman, she said she was timid but was always asking the older players “what can I do better in that situation next time?”

Clearly, they taught her well, because now the Indians are cruising toward a likely Class B championship game rematch on Halloween with Garden City, who topped Manhasset last year.

The two teams have split two games this fall, including a Garden City shootout win on Oct. 19.

“We’re stronger this year, we’ve got way more fans coming out to our games, and we have unfinished business (with Garden City),” she said. “We’ve never been to states, but I think it’s a definite possibility.”If Manhasset does make states, you can be sure the Shakira impression will come along as well.

Halloween scariest night legally

from Page 11

glowstick (if they’re embarrassed, these can be placed in their treat buckets. Phone flashlights also work).Make sure they don’t ride their bikes or skateboards. Arrange trick-or-treating groups with friends and other parents.

Precautions for drivers

Try to avoid driving on this evening. But if you do, take it slow, be more careful than usual, and of course, don’t drink or allow yourself to be otherwise impaired. Obey all traffic laws, particularly the speed limit, and drive extra slowly in residential neighborhoods. Be careful and alert. Expect children to jump in front of you without looking. Turn your headlights on early in the day. This is a day when you need to expect the unexpected.

Precautions for homeowners

If you’re expecting trick-or-treaters, make sure the area in front of your home is well-lit.

SLIP & FALLS

As kids dash about in a sugar-fueled craze to stockpile more candy, often in cumbersome and vision-limiting costumes, and with the weather making driveways and staircases wet and slippery, they’re more likely to trip, slip, or fall and get hurt.

Precautions for parents

Discuss Halloween safety with your children, reminding them not to run and to be careful when walking up and down stairs. Hold younger children’s hands. Make sure their costumes provide comfortable movement and unobstructed vision. Be alert for any potential hazards on properties you enter. Look for swaying or broken tree branches, unsecured heavy decorations, electrical wires near water or exposed, large cracks in the driveway, protruding pavers, etc.

Precautions for homeowners

Make sure your property is safe and properly maintained. Look for loose or damaged cement, bricks, pavers, boards, fence posts, etc. Make sure the path to your front door is well lit and unobstructed. Assume that you’ll have visitors that are not familiar with your property, and that defects that are normally open and obvious are concealed in the dark. Same for your lawn, which excited children may cut through. Remember that you may be liable for any injury sustained on your property, and take every precaution you can accordingly.

Let’s make Halloween spooky without being dangerous. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

Richard Apatis a partner in Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP and leads the firm’s Personal Injury and Real Estate Litigation practices. He is a seasoned attorney with over thirty years of experience in plaintiff personal injury litigation, real estate litigation, and commercial litigation. He can be reached atrapat@vmmlegal.comand 516.437.4385 x152.

Town to 30 E.V. charging stations

Continued from Page 13

Town councilmembers Veronica Lurvey, Mariann Dalimonte and Peter Zuckerman, along with elective vehicle drivers, joined Kaplan at the Clinton G. Martin Park to make the announcement. The speakers thanked Kaplan for pursuing the endeavor.

“Adding these EV charging stations to our parks is a natural fit and will hopefully encourage more people to make the switch, knowing that expanded access is on the horizon,” said Lurvey. “This is a model of sustainability and resiliency that we hope other towns on Long Island can follow, too.”

Sillitti touts record in sitdown with Blank Slate

a poor decision.

“There’s 100% a housing crisis,” she said. “I’m living it, and so many other people, my age and younger, are also living it. There’s just no place to go, there isn’t inventory and then the minimal inventory there is that’s affordable is being scooped up by people who have more and are building giant houses on it.”

As the conversation about housing went on, Sillitti’s views about congestion pricing also came up. The MTA’s proposed congestion pricing plan, according to the project’s environmental assessment, could increase the daily entry fee into Manhattan. The plan calls for a toll to enter a zone that extends from 60th Street to the Battery.

Sillitti said the COVID-19 pandemic has affected travel patterns, which makes using data from pre-2020 potentially not as reflective of the current situation as it could be. She added that having public hearings occur during an election year was

“We’re too reliant on our cars when we have some of the best transportation systems in the world,” she said. “I wish more people would use mass transit. But they don’t. People go into the city for hospital visits and all these kinds of things. And they feel like they shouldn’t have to pay for that.”

The congesting pricing proposal seeks to lessen traffic while generating funds for upcoming transportation improvements. MTA officials say these changes will have a positive impact on the environment, the economy and emergency response times.

Sillitti said there haven’t been “real, honest” debates about congestion pricing and the issue has become politicized. As a result, she argues that different arguments, which offer differing claims, don’t help anyone.

One can view the interview in its entirety on The Island 360’s YouTube channel.

First-half of 2022-2023 school property tax due

North Hempstead Receiver of Taxes Charles Berman is reminding residents that the last day to pay the 2022-2023 school taxes – first-half bill without a penalty is Thursday, Nov. 10. First-half of the 2022-2023 school tax payments must be postmarked by the U.S. Postal Service on or before Thursday, Nov. 10 to avoid penalty.

Online tax payment information is shown on the reverse side of your bill. Online payments may be made by check or credit card at: northhempsteadny.gov/tax-payments.

A $1.75 processing fee for online check payments will apply. If paying with an online check through your bank, please schedule the payment at least ten days prior to the deadline and be sure to include your account number (located in the upper right-hand corner of the tax bill), bill number and/ or your section, block and lot. A $3.95 fee applies for debit card transactions.

The online credit card payment processing fee is 2.30% of the tax amount per transaction. New York General Municipal Law requires people paying their property taxes by credit card to also pay the fees associated with the payment transaction. The Town receives no portion of the service fee – that fee is retained by the payment processing vendors. Accepted credit cards are American Express, Mastercard, Discover, or Visa.

When paying in person, you may pay your bill at 200 Plandome Road, Manhasset, NY 11030, during normal business hours, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (The office is not open on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays).

The tax office will also be open until 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 10, 2022. You may also pay at the following sites with check or money order only on the dates and times specified. Please bring your entire bill with you when paying in person.

First-Half 2022-2023 School Tax – Local Collection Sites

• Monday, October 24 at 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. –Port Washington Parking District, 15 Vanderventer Avenue, Port Washington

• Monday, October 24 at 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Hector Gayle Roslyn Community Center, 51 Orchard Street, Roslyn Heights (in the front)

• Tuesday, October 25 at 10 a.m. — 12 p.m. –Fuschillo Park, Carle Road & Broadmoor Lane, Carle Place

• Tuesday, October 25 at 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – “Yes We Can” Community Center, 141 Garden Street, New Cassel

• Wednesday, October 26 at 10 a.m. — 12 p.m. – Clinton G. Martin Park, Marcus Avenue & New Hyde Park Road., New Hyde Park

• Wednesday, October 26 at 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. –Broadway Park, Broadway & County Courthouse Road., Garden City Park

• Thursday, October 27 at 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. –Great Neck Social Center, 80 Grace Avenue, Great Neck

• Thursday, October 27 – 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. – Michael J. Tully Park, Evergreen Avenue, New Hyde Park

• Friday – October 28 – 12 p.m. –2 p.m. – John D. Caemmerer Park, Wentworth Avenue, Albertson Anyone making payments by mail should include the remittance stub(s) with their check or money order in the return envelope. They are also asked to write their Bill Number(s) on the check(s), include the payment stub, and make checks payable to: Charles Berman, Receiver of Taxes and mail to the Receiver of Taxes at 200 Plandome Road, Manhasset, NY 11030.

For more information or if you have additional questions, please call 311 or 516-869-6311.

E.W. lawyer charged in Jan. 6 insurrection

Additionally, O’Kelly was at the center of a heated debate more than a decade ago when the Mineola School District proposed to lease of the Cross Street School to the Solomon Schechter Day School of Glen Cove.

O’Kelly, who was not a resident of the Mineola School District, said he obtained a copy of the proposed lease agreement between Mine-

ola School district and Solomon Schechter Day School using a Freedom of Information Law request.

In it, there were a number of projects that would cost Mineola taxpayers more than they were taking in from rent revenues, according to O’Kelly. “In summary there is no net revenue to the district to be realized from the proposed lease.”

He criticized the plan and Mineola Superintendent Michael Nagler in various letters sent to Blank Slate Media and even mentioned St. Aidan’s School, which is located on Willis Avenue, across the street from the Cross Street School in Williston Park.

Concerns about antisemitism were raised about O’Kelly’s opposition to the purchase by the Jewish school.

O’Kelly also served on the Lawyer’s Committee for 9/11 Inquiry, a group that claims explosives were planted at the World Trade Center before the attacks, which sued the U.S. government in 2021, according to NBC News.

The FBI released photos of O’Kelly, who reportedly had a reservation at the Residence Inn Arlington Ballston hotel in Virginia near the Capitol the day before the riots. He was identified by an online tipster, officials said.

Steven Grosskopf’s

added to Wall of Honor

from Page

A dinner in Grosskopf’s honor was held at Jonathan’s Restaurant on Jericho Turnpike in New Hyde Park, where many of the scoutmaster’s former scouts and their families spoke on how the experience under Grosskopf’s guidance changed their lives, according to the Mineola Chamber of Commerce.

As part of the award, a black-andsilver plaque of Grosskopf will be on the wall in the village hall lobby where DaVanzo once sat at a desk and greeted those who came in.

DaVanzo was a Mineola resident his entire life, graduating from Mineola High School in 1938 before serving on the USS Glennon from 1943 to 1946, during which he survived D-Day.

In 1947, DaVanzo joined the Mineola Volunteer Fire Department, serving as captain of Engine Company 1 from 1953 to 1955. He received the National Volunteer Firefighter of the Year award in 2004 and was named an honorary chief in 2007.

John O’Kelly, of East Williston, was charged in connection to the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Nearly 900 individuals have been arrested in relation to the insurrection, officials said. More than 270 have been charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

DaVanzo served a total of 43 years as a village trustee, deputy mayor, North Hempstead town councilman and town clerk combined as well as being named New York State Clerk of the Year in 1986.

N. Hempstead board OKs 5% cut in tax levy

General fund revenues are projected at $61,319,927, a $200,000 increase from the tentative budget due to the addition of a code enforcement officer for the town.

Lurvey acknowledge her amendments were submitted and published to the town’s website Monday afternoon, giving the other six members on the board a little over 24 hours to prepare for discussion.

But, she said, the amendments are easy to read and detail where the changes are coming from financially.

For amendments to the town’s outside vil-

lage fund, which covers services for residents who live outside incorporated villages, the budgeted expenses are $44,772,898, a $4.25 million increase from the tentative budget.

The increase was a result of $2 million being allocated for street paving, $1 million allocated for concrete sidewalk and road repairs, $1 million allocated for tree trimming and removal and $250,000 for beautification projects.

Lurvey said the difference between the 5% and 11% in tax cuts proposed by her and DeSena amounts to an average of $15 for taxpayers.

“With the difference in the tax cuts, we

will be able to provide quality-of-life enhancements for all of our residents,” Lurvey said Tuesday night. “My proposals include critical quality-of-life initiatives that will make our community safer, more beautiful and provide the services that our hardworking residents expect.”

In response to a question by DeSena during the workshop, Lurvey said the general appropriated fund balance will be at 19.57% of the general fund budget, which complies with the 2011 policy mandating it be at least 10%.

The fund, she said, gives an approximate two-month cushion for emergencies that bond

rating agencies recommend, which is 15% or 16%.

For the town outside village fund reserve balance, the amendments would leave it at 17.09% of the town outside village fund, which complies both with the policy and also gives a two-month cushion for emergencies, Lurvey said.

Amendments can still be made to the preliminary budget for 2023. The town board will vote to adopt the budget on Thursday, Nov. 3.

North Hempstead’s Town Board has routinely adopted the town budget before Election Day, which this year is Nov. 8.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE VILLAGE OF MINEOLA

Steven Grosskopf (left) is congratulated by Mineola Mayor Paul Pereira (right).

Changing demographics of election districts

Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Uniondale, Wantagh, West Hempstead, Westbury and parts of Valley Stream.

Nearly 100,000 fewer White people reside in the 3rd Congressional District, which includes the entire Town of North Hempstead including parts of Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Garden City, Mineola and Westbury villages.

While the 3rd Congressional District under the new map does not extend as far west as the Bronx or Westchester, it does stretch to more southern parts of Nassau County such as Hicksville and Massapequa.

The Assembly Districts had populations of roughly 128,930 in 2012, with some having either several more or fewer residents, but their increases were more sporadic a decade later.

The 13th District grew to just 130,500 people in 2022, the 15th District grew to 134,400, the 19th District grew to 135,300 and the 16th District grew to 138,800 in 2022, statistics showed.

Assembly District 16 comprises Great Neck, Manhasset, Port Washington, Herricks, Mineola, Baxter Estates, parts of East Williston, Old Westbury, Roslyn Estates, Roslyn, Albertson, Williston Park and New Hyde Park.

New York’s 15th Assembly Dis-

trict includes Bethpage, Brookville, East Norwich, Farmingdale, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Glenwood Landing, Greenvale, Hicksville, Jericho, Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Levittown, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Mill Neck, Muttontown, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Plainedge, Plainview, Salisbury, Syosset, Roslyn Harbor, Upper Brookville and Woodbury.

New York’s 19th Assembly District stretches into North Hempstead, Hempstead and Oyster Bay. Communities include Franklin Square, West Hempstead, Garden City South, Garden City Park, New Hyde Park, North New Hyde Park, Westbury, Carle Place, Mineola, Williston Park, East Williston, Westbury, Old Westbury, Brookville, Old Brookville, Upper Brookville and Glen Head.

Assembly District 13 comprises Glen Cove, Sea Cliff, Plainview, Woodbury, Glenwood Landing, Cove Neck, Centre Island and Jericho as well as residents in parts of Bayville, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Laurel Hollow, Syosset, Old Bethpage, Bethpage, Hicksville, Westbury/New Cassel, Muttontown, Brookville, East Hills, Greenvale, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights and Roslyn Harbor.

White populations decreased in all of the Assembly Districts by an

average of roughly 8,500 people. The 15th, 16th and 19th Districts had more than 91,000 White residents in 2012, while none had more than 88,000 in 2022. The 13th District had more than 82,000 White residents in 2012, but decreased to 63,400 in 2022, the lowest total figure out of all seven districts.

The 7th District’s population grew from 315,000 in 2012 to 325,500 in 2022, according to the figures.

The state’s 7th Senate District includes Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Williston Park, Mineola, Garden City Park, North Hills, Albertson, Old Westbury, East Hills, Roslyn, Roslyn Harbor, Roslyn Estates, Albertson, Searingtown, Lake Success, Manhasset, Munsey Park, Plandome, Plandome Heights, Plandome Manor, and the Great Neck and Port Washington peninsulas.

The White population in the 7th Senate District increased by roughly 2,000 people, going from 196,000 in 2012 to 198,000 a decade later, according to figures.

Nearly 30,000 more Black residents are in the 4th Congressional District with 130,583 reported in 2022, according to the numbers.

More than 28,000 Black residents are in the 3rd District, an increase from the nearly 22,000 residing in it a decade ago.

Black populations increased by

12% or less in the 13th, 16th and 19th Assembly Districts while significantly decreasing in the 7th Senate District and the 15th Assembly District.

The 7th Senate District had nearly 24,000 Black residents in 2012, a number which has decreased to 7,500 10 years later. The 15th Assembly District went from 3,056 Black residents in 2012 to 2,138 in 2022.

Hispanic populations increased by at least 30% in all districts aside from the 7th Senate District and the 15th Assembly District. Each district has at least 13,000 Hispanic residents in 2022, with the 4th District leading with 171,500.

Asian American populations increased by at least 40% in each district, with no fewer than 22,000 reported in each district. The 3rd Congressional District had more than 98,000 Asian American residents in 2012 and 188,400 in 2022, statistics showed.

An influx of minority populations is reflective of the growing diversity throughout Nassau County outlined in the 2020 U.S. Census.

The Town of North Hempstead, which had a 5% increase in total population to more than 237,000 residents, saw similar trends. The town’s white, non-Hispanic population decreased from 64.8% in 2010 to 53.9% in 2020, according to the

data. Its Asian American population rose from 14.9% to 23% over the past decade, a 62% increase.

Hispanics or Latinos made up 12.8% of the town’s population in 2010, growing by more than 20% over the past 10 years to 14.8%. Its Black population declined from 5.3% in 2010 to 4.8% in 2020, statistics showed.

Other races not specified in the census data increased in the town by more than 138.6% throughout the town, jumping from 691 in 2010 to 1,649 in 2020. Individuals with two or more races nearly doubled over the past decade, growing from 3,872 in 2010 to 6,424 in 2020.

Nassau County’s total population increased by more than 56,000, or 4.2%, over the 10 years, and is less than 5,000 away from surpassing 1.4 million residents, according to the data.

The county’s non-Hispanic white population decreased from 65.5% in 2010 to 55.8 percent in 2020. In 2010, Asian Americans made up 7.6 percent of Nassau’s population, which increased to 11.7% in 2020.

The Hispanic or Latino population increased by more than 31%, growing from 14.6% in 2010 to 18.4% in 2020. While data showed that Nassau’s Black population remained at 10.5% over the decade, it did increase by 4.2%.

EMPLOYMENT

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Town hosts pumpkin fest at Clinton Martin

Hundreds of attendees came out to the free event which featured pickyour-own pumpkins, music, crafts, character meet and greets, a ride on a train, a bouncy house, giveaways, and more.

FCA Fall Harvest Celebration

FCA is one of Nassau County’s oldest and largest nonprofit health and human services organizations, each year providing critical support and services to more than 30,000 Long Islanders.

On Thursday, Nov. 10, FCA will host its largest fundraiser, the 2022 Fall Harvest Celebration, at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City.

Attendees, including local government and business leaders, donors, beneficiaries, and friends, will help raise the vital funds that allow FCA to continue to serve Long Island’s most vulnerable residents.

This year, FCA welcomes Linda Beigel Schulman as its Fall Harvest honoree. Beigel Schulman is the mother of Scott J. Beigel, the teacher and cross-country coach who sacrificed his life to save the lives of 31 of his students at the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School massacre in Parkland, Fla.

A well-known and formidable advocate for reasonable gun safety legislation on the state and federal levels, Beigel Schulman created the

Scott J. Beigel Memorial Fund as a way to address and end the gun violence epidemic through education and legislation. In 2022, the Fund gave out grants totaling $283,600 that sent 212 underserved and atrisk youth to sleep-away camp for the summer.

“Linda’s firm belief in the value of providing children with positive alternatives to guns, gangs, and violence aligns perfectly with FCA’s mission,” said Jeffrey L. Reynolds, president and CEO of FCA. “Our young people deserve safe neighborhoods and schools in which they can learn and grow free from fear of violence.”FCA will also honor Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder as its James J. Harnett award recipient in recognition of his work implementing life-saving programs and initiatives which have helped ensure officer and public safety and helped bring crime in Nassau County to historic lows. The county has earned “Safest Community in America” status from U.S. News and World Report for the last three years in a row. Donna T. Bacon, recipient of

this year’s Carol Wessel Humanitarian award, is deeply dedicated to the education, empowerment and health promotion of underserved individuals and communities on Long Island.

\A tenured Professor at Nassau Community College, Bacon was the first woman and only African American voted Chair of the Health Studies department. She was also appointed Chief Investigative Officer by the NCC President to train and assist in consistent and proper investigation of incidents of sexual misconduct within the campus community.

All proceeds from the Fall Harvest Celebration will help to enhance FCA’s programs and services for Long Island’s most vulnerable children, families, seniors and communities.

To learn more about the Fall Harvest, sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, please visit FCALI. org/harvest. Additional information on upcoming events is also available at FCALI.org or through Vice President of Strategic Advancement and Chief Development Officer Paige O’Brien, at (516)746-0350 x 4320 or PObrien@FCALI.org.

Northwell gift to create cancer hospital, center

Leaders from Northwell Health gathered today at a ribbon-cutting event to recognize a new gift from longtime trustee Roy J. Zuckerberg to create the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Hospital at Long Island Jewish Medical Center — Long Island’s first cancer hospital — and to establish the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center, Northwell’s largest ambulatory cancer center.

Zuckerberg’s gift will also create an endowed chair in cancer research, helping to recruit top talent in the field and is part of his long-term generous philanthropy to Northwell, where his vision and commitment to enhancing patient care have made a direct impact across the health system.

The R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Hospital and R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center unite cancer care provided at LIJ and across the street at 450 Lakeville Road, a stateof-the-art outpatient facility that offers numerous cancer programs and therapies in a healing environment.

The new cancer campus is the flagship of the Northwell Health Cancer Institute, which seamlessly integrates the health system’s network of nationally recognized hospitals and cancer specialists, so patients across Northwell’s footprint get top care close to home.

“We are extraordinarily grateful to Roy for his visionary gift in helping to create a cancer campus, one that unifies LIJ’s superb surgical cancer care with our cutting-edge outpatient oncology programs,” said Michael J. Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell Health. “This is the first-of-its-kind cancer campus on Long Island and in Queens, which will help us further integrate services and deliver the highest level and best possible cancer care to patients in the region.”

As part of Zuckerberg’s gift to ad-

vance cancer care, Northwell plans to enhance or create several programs, including dedicated oncology floors so cancer patients will be paired with experienced oncology nurses; a new women’s cancer center focused on treating women with breast and gynecologic cancers in a healing and tranquil setting; a Center for Genomic Medicine that can perform tumor profiling for all patients; and new technology to treat liver cancer. There are also plans to transfer the bone marrow transplant and CAR-T immunotherapy program from North Shore University Hospital to increase the program’s size.

The R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Hospital, Northwell’s only cancer hospital, delivers the most complex care available and includes 164 of LIJ’s 583 beds, dedicated to treating patients with various types of cancer including breast, pancreatic, lung, head and neck, colon, urologic and gynecologic cancers.

On any given day, four to six operating rooms are used for open or robotic cancer surgery. The R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Hospital and the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center each offer dedicated navigation programs to guide patients through every step of their cancer journey.

The 150,000-square-foot R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center, Northwell’s largest, includes 64 infusion bays and provides outpatient treatment in the specialties of medical oncology including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and hormone therapy; comprehensive radiation medicine; surgical and neurological consults; clinical trials; diagnostic imaging; a pharmacy; and support programs for cancer patients and their loved ones.

“With the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Hospital and the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center we have one of our premier

hospitals literally across the street from our state-of-the-art comprehensive ambulatory cancer center, which allows us to streamline cancer services for optimal care,” said Dr. Richard Barakat, physician-in-chief and director of cancer services at the Northwell Health Cancer Institute and senior vice president of cancer services. “What makes us so unique is that we provide comprehensive medical care as our standard of cancer care, meaning virtually any medical condition patients have or side effects they may experience can be treated by our specialists in one health system.”

With more than 400 physicians, Northwell Health Cancer Institute treats more than 19,000 cancer patients annually, more than any other provider in New York State.

“As the largest provider of cancer care in the state, we feel a tremendous responsibility to deliver the best treatments and therapies — and the highest quality care — for our patients who choose us to receive their care during the

most challenging time in their life,” said Barakat. “This amazing philanthropic gift will assist us as we build new multidisciplinary cancer programs in a patientcentric manner, from diagnosis through treatment to survivorship, and will provide integrative medicine therapies, not only to improve patient outcomes, but to improve the quality of patients’ lives.”

Zuckerberg, who spent 31 years at Goldman Sachs and was its longest-serving partner before retiring as vice chairman in 1998, was first introduced to LIJ in 1972 when he sought treatment for his 3-year-old daughter at the hospital’s hearing and speech center, now the Sandra Atlas Bass Otolaryngology Center.

“I’ve had a passion for LIJ since I saw the remarkable care my daughter received there, and it inspired me to get involved in the hospital,” he said.

Zuckerberg later became a member of LIJ’s board of directors and served as the hospital’s chairman, where he helped lead the historic merger between LIJ and North Shore Health System in 1997. He

also served as chairman of the North Shore-LIJ Health System.

“My inspiration for giving came from seeing my father make gifts to various causes,” said Zuckerberg. “While my father was not a wealthy man, I saw enough to realize there are people who help people in the world. There’s nothing more important than making a sick person well, and the place to do that is in a hospital or a place where healing happens.”

Zuckerberg’s gift contributes to Northwell’s historic Outpacing the Impossible comprehensive fundraising campaign, which he co-chairs. Northwell announced last month it reached the $1 billion goal in the campaign and announced an extension to raise $1.4 billion by December 2024, with cancer care noted as a campaign priority.

“The generosity of our donors is what accelerates our ability to carry out our mission and advance care for our patients,” said Brian T. Lally, senior vice president and chief development officer at Northwell Health. “We are immensely grateful to Roy for his dedication to Northwell and for his continued commitment to providing care to the diverse communities we serve.”

Zuckerberg has been a longtime supporter of LIJ and in 2009 he made an extraordinary gift to LIJ that led to the development of a 10-story glass tower and the largest expansion in the hospital’s history. In addition to his longstanding support of Northwell, Zuckerberg has generously supported cancer research and education at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Northwell Health and CSHL have a strategic affiliation that focuses on aligning cancer research to bring clinical trials and treatment to the health system’s network of cancer clinical services.

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Council Member Peter Zuckerman and Council Member Veronica Lurvey recently attended Pumpkin Fest on Oct. 6 at Clinton G. Martin Park.

Happening at Williston Park Library

American Legion scholarship applications are now available at the library.

If you’ve borrowed a museum pass, we ask that it be returned to the library by 10 a.m. on the due date to ensure timely pick up for the next patron on the waiting list. If you wish to return the pass prior to the due date and the library is closed, please put in the book drop. We appreciate your cooperation.

The library is distributing Covid-19 self-test kits while supplies last.

New titles added to the collection: Nora Goes Off Script—Annabel Monaghan Watergate: A New History—Garrett Graff Shoe Story—Jane L. Rosen

One Damn Thing After Another: Memoirs of an Attorney General—William Barr Feels Like Falling—Kristy Woodson Harvey When it Falls Apart—Catherine Bybee Remarkably Bright Creatures—Shelby Van Pelt Making of Her—Bernadette Jiwa Riverbend Reunion—Carolyn Brown Place in the World—Frances Mayes

Adult Programs

Reiki Circle—Thursdays—November 3 & 17; December 1 & 15—6 p.m. in the Assembly Room of Village Hall. $10 p/person, p/ session. Call the library (742-1820), email willistonparkprograms@ gmail.com or stop by the library to register.

Medicare Basics—Tuesday—October 18—5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Assembly Room of Village Hall. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Bracelet Workshop with Ofra Jewels—Tuesday—November 1—6 p.m. in the Library. $10 p/person. Limited to 12 participants. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail. com to register.

Book Discussion—Wednesday—November 16—7 p.m. in the Assembly Room of Village Hall and via Zoom. Copies of Orphan Collector will be available at the Circulation Desk.

Author Ellen Marie Wiseman will join the discussion via Zoom. https://adelphiuniversity.zoom.us/j/ 96885670102?pwd= VGt-

SYnkyUW9acVJyV0tyNUtUZnMyZz09

Meeting ID: 968 8567 0102 Passcode: WPBookClub Or just call 1-929-205-6099 on your phone and it will ask for the meeting id and password above.

Snowman Cookie Jar Craft—Monday—November 28—6pm in the Library. $25 material fee due at registration. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Empire Safety Driving Course—Wednesday—January 11, 2023—10am-4pm in the Assembly Room of Village Hall. $20 p/person. Limited to 25 participants. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Children’s Programs

Story Time for Tots—Tuesdays—November 8, 15, 22 & 29; December 6 & 13—11-11:45 a.m. in the library for children ages 1-4 with a parent or caregiver. Call the library (742-1820), email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com or ask at the Circulation Desk to register. Maximum of 15 children. No walk-ins!

Kids Candy Corn with Them’s the Breaks—Saturday—November 5—11am-Noon in the Assembly Room of Village Hall for children ages 5+. $6 p/kit. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Sensational Playtime—November 7, 14 & 21—10:30-11:30 am in the Assembly Room of Village Hall for children 18-36 months. This program will emphasize developing motor skills through sensory play and movement. Limited to 15 children and their caregiver. Per vendor, please meet in the library at 10:20. Strollers are to be left in the library. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Sign Language for Babies & Toddlers—Wednesday—December 14 & 21—11 a.m. in the library for children ages 3 months-3 years old. Per vendor, program is limited to 15 children. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

DIY Christmas Wood Ornaments—Saturday—December 17—11am-Noon in the library for children ages 3+. Limited to 16 participants. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Petra Puppets Holiday Talent Show—Tuesday—December 27— 10:30 a.m. in the Assembly Room of Village Hall for children of all ages. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@ gmail.com to register.

EWDS launches book challengeHerricks students create pumpkin patch

Searingtown Elementary students in third, fourth and fifth grades were invited to decorate a pumpkin at home to look like a favorite book character and bring it back to school to plant in the Storybook Pumpkin Patch for display in the school’s library. Along with their decorated pumpkins, students submitted a

book overview and description of their character to accompany their creation.

Some of the pumpkin characters represented were from books such as “Dogman,” “Wonder,” “Harry Potter,” “Charlotte’s Web,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “The Babysitters Club” and “Captain Underpants.”

The East Williston School District is promoting the joy of reading through a Classroom Book-A-Day initiative. The goal is for students and teachers to experience the joy of reading together as a classroom community while learning the value of celebrating stories. Reading together will encourage students to engage in meaningful discourse with peers as well as reflect upon the text to deepen their understanding of their own lives and the world.

“In addition to nurturing a love for reading, #ClassroomBookADay brings joy to students’ reading and writing lives while promoting the social, emotional and cognitive development of all learners,” said Director of English and Literacy K-12 Nicole Hunn.

At the Willets Road School, the goal is to read aloud a picture book every day in the fifth grade classrooms. “I truly believe these picture books help to build

community in our classroom, develop empathy, expose students to a range of stories, strengthen critical thinking, en-

courage discussion, enhance listening skills, and build their vocabularies,” said fifth grade teacher Jessica Liakonis.

Mineola ed board upcoming meets

The following is a list of upcoming Mineola School District Board of Education meeting dates:

Board Meetings are held at the Mineola Synergy Building, 2400 Jericho Turnpike, Garden City Park, NY 11040.

Wednesday, October 26th — Business Meeting

Thursday, November 17th — Business Meeting

December 1st — Workshop Meeting

December 15th — Business Meeting

Superintendent of Schools Danielle Gately joined fifth grade students in Willets Road School to read a book together as part of the district’s Classroom Book-A-Day initiative.

Outdoor experience to remember

Following a more than 40-year-old tradition, Willets Road School seventh grade students, in the East Williston School District, participated in a five-day, four-night outdoor education experience at Camp Stockwell in Medford Township, New Jersey. Each day was filled with learning experiences to enhance their education, communication skills, teamwork and trust.

This weeklong outdoor education program uses cooperative learning and hands-on experiences to develop an atmosphere of team building that fosters leadership, effective communication, commitment and cooperation. The students participated in group games, team-building activities, challenge courses (high and low elements), canoeing, pond ecology, archery, sports, survival skills and the famous swamp challenge course which was yet again a big hit with the students. While participating in these amazing activities, students made new friends, formed new relationships with their peers, gained self-confidence and learned to survive in nature while learning about the environment and the world around them. They proved they were able to survive off the grid with absolutely no technology for five days. In addition to the daily camp programs, students experienced two nights of Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge Birds of Prey presentations.

The students also joined together to build on the values the East Williston School District, as a school community, strives to instill and achieve in all students including action,

caring, courage, honesty, inclusion, kindness, pride, respect, responsibility and success. As in years past, this well-rounded middle school experience left a lifelong impression with each student. They will use the skills learned during this experience throughout the remainder of the school year and beyond.

Willets Road School seventh grade students, in the East Williston School District, continued the school’s tradition during their participation in an outdoor education experience at Camp Stockwell.

From Class of ‘77 graduates

During the summer, the Saint Aidan Class of 1977 held their 45th Reunion Mass/Reception. Over 70 Alumni and spouses attended!

The Class of 77′ represented here by Doreen Cormack Lesmeister & Julia Mayce Ward, made a donation to Saint Aidan Schools of over $3 thousand dollars in remembrance of fellow classmates that had passed—calling it the “Angel Fund”.Pictured above are Tom Flynn, business manager for SA, Doreen, Julia and Barbara Graham, assistant principal at Saint Aidan School. In addition, the Class of 77′ purchased a brick for the schoolyard and made a generous donation to the missions.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HERRICKS PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Searingtown students pictured left to right: Sopia Chen, Lia Tablante and Ayatt Bajwa holding their storybook pumpkin creations with school librarian Karen Kliegman.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EAST WILLISTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EAST WILLISTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

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