WILLISTON TIMES 2024_04_19

COLUMNIST MALEKOFF DIES

NHP squatters evicted after nearly 1 year

Neighbors claim victory in campaign against Porsche-driving couple

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

After nearly a year of occupying a home at 39 Brussel Drive in New Hyde Park, police evicted a group of Porschedriving squatters Friday morning.

Sheriffs and police officers arrived at the property around 8 a.m. and the eviction process began around 9 a.m., lasting a few hours, neighbors said.

Movers carried chairs, cardboard boxes, an air mattress and what looked like a bird cage into a large moving van parked in front of the property.

One of the squatters, Denton Gayle, carried full garbage bags from the house into his Porsche Cayenne before taking out his phone and recording police officers, movers, town councilmembers and journalists at the scene.

The eviction comes after persistent efforts from neighbors to work with the town on evicting the squatters, Gayle, 29, and Margaret Grover, 19.

“The fact of the matter is, we kind of showed what can be done if you stay vigilant and on top of it,” a neighbor Al, who wished to keep his full name anonymous, said.

But, Al said, neighbors should not have to be so involved in eviction processes and that squatter’s laws need to change.

An employee of the preservation company handling the house, who

wished to remain anonymous, agreed. He waited across the street from the property and said he was there to lock up the house at the end of the eviction process.

He said he wants squatter laws in New York to change. The employee claimed he has lost multiple properties to squatters over the past few years and called squatters laws “biased.”

North Hempstead Councilwoman Christine Liu was at the scene, standing at the house next door to 39 Brussel Drive as movers carried belongings to the van.

One neighbor said that this appearance was just a photo opportunity and claimed Liu had nothing to do with expediting the eviction process — that it was a result of the neighbors’ hard work.

“I am grateful to the residents in the community for their responsiveness, tenacity, and legal pursuits following the illegal occupancy of 39 Brussel Drive,” Liu told Blank Slate Media in a statement. “Given the brazen behavior of the occupants at 39 Brussel Drive, the Town supported the parties involved in the pursuit of legal remedies and provided resources to secure the property. I will continue to work with our Town Attorney’s office to ensure U.S. Bank Trust National Association fulfills its legal obligation to foreclose on this property in an expeditious manner.”

Continued on Page 59

Mineola students served up a pasta feat to raise money for Long Islanders in need. See story on page 63.

Legion to host 9th annual Williston Park car show

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

The American Legion and the Long Island chapter of Antique Automobile Club of America will be cohosting the ninth annual Williston

Park Car Show on Sunday, April 28, at 730 Willis Ave. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will showcase antique, vintage and special interest cars and motorcycles. On a day with

nice weather, the car show easily welcomes around 100 cars to The American Legion, event organizer Bob Guastella said.

No pre-registration is required

Continued on Page 60

PHOTO COURTESY OF MINEOLA SCHOOL DISTRICT

Roslyn boys honored by sports association

Athletic awards for teens killed by alleged drunk driver

SCREENCAP

The Jewish Sports Heritage Association posthumously honored Drew Hassenbein and Ethan Falkowitz on April 7.

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

While most honorees at the 6th Annual Jewish Sports Heritage Association induction ceremony April 7 took to the stage and read speeches of thanks, honorees Ethan Falkowitz and Drew Hassenbein, who were killed in a car crash last May, did not get that chance.

Roslyn middle-schoolers Ethan and Drew were fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver in Jericho on their way home from a dinner celebrating their tennis victory earlier that day on May 3, 2023. Both boys were just 14.

The two were honored posthumously as tennis players of the year at the ceremony and remembered for their athletic talents and kindness.

“They were taken from us way too young,” Alan Freedman, director of the association, said. “I thought in a few

years Ethan and Drew should be getting this award when they’re high school seniors.”

Amandeep Sing, 34, was accused by the Nassau District Attorney’s Office of driving on the wrong side of the road May 3 at 95 mph with a blood alcohol count of 0.15 and cocaine in his system, based on records obtained by Newsday.

Sing was charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated vehicular homicide, first-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree manslaughter, leaving the scene of an auto accident with a fatality, driving while intoxicated and two counts of second-degree assault.

Sing rejected a plea deal in November and pleaded not guilty. He was last in court Feb. 20.

Roslyn High School students Zach Sheena and Ethan Solop, riding in the car with the two middle-schoolers, were

hospitalized with internal injuries but were in stable condition following the accident.

Both Ethan and Drew played on the school tennis team. Drew was at one point the No. 1-ranked tennis player in the nation for the Boys 12 and Under division. As a middle schooler, he was already being scouted by nationally acclaimed college tennis programs, according to reports.

“They weren’t just great tennis players, which they were,” Freedman said. “They were truly outstanding young men who were taken from us way too early. There’s just so much that I’m sure they would have accomplished in their lives.”

Freedman said the association would like to create an annual award in Ethan’s and Drew’s honor to be granted to the top male and female U.S. tennis player.

CORRECTION: The East Williston Village section featured in the Guide to Williston contained two inaccuracies. The guide incorrectly listed Marie Hauser as the village clerk and Raffaela Dunne as the deputy mayor. Joanna Palumbo is the current village clerk and Anthony Gallo is the current deputy mayor. We apologize for the errors.

Pinwheels mark children lost

Kyra’s Champions continue campaign

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Nearly 800 pinwheels were scattered across the lawn of Mary Jane Davis Green Park gave a beautiful appearance but carried a tragic meaning.

Every pinwheel planted symbolized a child in New York who had died while in the family court system.

“One of those children is twoyear-old Kyra Franchetti, a toddler I never had the opportunity to meet but a little girl I think about every single day,” Kyra’s Champions student advocate Shayna Blumenfeld said.

Kyra’s Champions is a child safety advocacy group formed by Jacqueline Franchetti in response to the murder of her daughter Kyra by Kyra’s father in the summer of 2016.

The organization has promoted a bill to protect children in the court system

On a windy Wednesday morning, Kyra’s Champions and supporting local officials gathered in the park surrounded by the sound of spinning pinwheels.

State Assemblymember Gina Sil-

litti, who recently gave birth to a boy, said the wind spinning them and the subtle noise they produced was as if the children they represented were joining them.

The day also coincided with what would have been Kyra’s 10th birthday.

“Today should be a celebration of my daughter Kyra’s 10th birthday,” Franchetti said. “Double-digits. And instead of blowing out candles, I’m going to be putting flowers by her grave.”

Joining Franchetti and Kyra’s Champions were Robbie Harvey, a social media influencer for child abuse prevention, Sillitti, state Sen. Jack Martins, Lorraine DiFiglia of the Safe Center LI and various other local officials.

This was the fourth year the pinwheels were planted at the park, done by the organization Kyra’s Champions, and every year more and more pinwheels are added as more and more children die.

Franchetti said this includes ten children who were killed in the last year alone by a parent while going through a divorce, custody case or Continued on Page 59

Pinwheels cover the lawn at Mary Jane Davies Green Park in Manhasset to raise awareness for child abuse and neglect by family court systems, while also advocating for the passage of a law that would protect children during custody disputes.

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACQUELINE FRANCHETTI

Andrew Malekoff dies at 72

Children’s mental health advocate, Blank Slate Media columnist loses long battle with cancer

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Andrew Malekoff, a Renaissance man known to wear many hats and remembered for his advocacy for children’s mental health and prolific writing, died peacefully surrounded by his family after a 15-year battle with cancer and comorbid diseases. He was 72.

He is survived by his wife Dale, his two sons Jamie and Darren, his daughterin-law Annalisa and his brother Robert.

“Andy took on many roles throughout his life,” Darren said. “A son, a brother, a husband, a friend, an academic, an athlete, a captain, an advocate, an artist, a visionary…to me, he was a protector, a role model, an icon.”

Darren remembered his father for his good taste in films – like those of Martin Scorcese and Robert Deniro, his love for Italian food, his Rutgers pride, his love for bike rides along the Long Beach Boardwalk and his adventurous desires in traveling.

“Flipping through the photos of their adventures, you can see the glimmer in Andy’s eyes that exudes a sense of his child-like curiosity and wonder,” Darren said.

His son also remembered him for his sense of humor, commonly playing pranks on his family, his running bit to get his wife to smell the spoiled milk just to

see her reaction and heckling telemarketers who called during family dinners.

“I guess it’s no coincidence the first day that we sit shiva is April Fool’s Day or Andy’s last prank,” Darren said.

Darren recounted one of the greatest gifts imparted to him from his father: a collection of letters he had begun writing when his son was born through his 18th birthday when they were gifted to him. The hundreds of letters were delivered to him in a clear plastic box, recounting memories gathered over the years.

Andrew was born in Newark, N.J., and attended Columbia High School. He graduated from Rutgers University in 1973 where he majored in in economics and served as a big brother for Rutgers Community Action.

At Rutgers, he played as a linebacker and defensive captain of the 1972 football team, also participating in wrestling, lacrosse and rugby.

After graduating from Rutgers, Andrew worked for the Volunteers in Service to America in Grand Island, Neb. – a lowincome Mexican-American community.

He later obtained his Master of Social Work from Adelphi University.

Andrew began interning at the North Shore Child and Family Guidance Center – the leading children’s mental health agency on Long Island located in Roslyn Heights – while working to receive his

as he received numerous awards. This included the NY State Social Work Education Association Social Work Practitioner of the Year award.

Andrew also worked as an adjunct professor at Adelphi and New York University’s Schools of Social Work and served on the board of the International Association for Social Work with Groups.

He was also the editor-in-chief of Social Work with Groups: A Journal of Community and Clinical Practice for 25 years.

“My father was a man of integrity,” Darren said. “He often spoke for those who could not speak for themselves and fought for those who could not stand up on their own. However, behind this serious and stoic man there was a hilarious boy just looking to make others smile.”

While his work was a point of pride, Darren said family always came first for his father.

master’s, but remained at the center for 40 years. He began serving as its executive director in 2006.

As an advocate for children’s mental

health, he would also testify at county and state legislative hearings for greater mental health support services.

Andrew’s work did not go unnoticed

“Towards the end of his life our conversations tended to revolve around what was most important to him — his wife and children always at the top of the list,” Darren said. “It felt as if he was offering his last lesson: That life is not about awards or professional accomplishments, it is who you chose to spend your time with, who you sit across from at the dinner table, who you lie your head next to at night.”

Continued on Page 59

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDREW MALEKOFF

Andrew Malekoff, the former executive director for the North Shore Child and Family Guidance Center and Blank Slate Media columnist, died at the age of 72.

G.N. 4th grader wins international award

Prevails in Jewish Knowledge Championship against 4,000 students from 25 countries

BY CAMERYN OAKES

A Great Neck fourth grader prevailed over 4,000 other students from 25 countries in clinching the highest award at the International Jewish Knowledge Championship, a spelling bee-style competition focused on Jewish culture.

Naomi Cohen, who attends Baker Hill Elementary School and Chabad of Great Neck Hebrew School, came out on top at the final competition April 8 when she demonstrated her skills and knowledge in front of thousands of attendees and more than 50,000 people. Included in those tuning in remotely was a collection of Naomi’s supporters at Chabad of Great Neck.

“We are super happy for her, super proud of what she’s been doing,” her father, Florent Cohen, said. “I think it shows her how if you work and you dedicate yourself to something, you can achieve great things.”

The Jewish Knowledge Championship, also known as the JewQ Championship, drew in contestants from the United Kingdom, Colombia and France as well as Great Neck’s Naomi Cohen. It is facilitated by CKids, the Chabad Children’s Network that provides programming and curriculum for young Jews.

of studying, testing and competing in regional competitions. She said her months of preparation were months of hard work.

Baumgarten described Naomi as a star student whose win has brought pride to the Hebrew school.

“Naomi’s mastery of the material and her achievement in winning the trophy is not just a personal milestone but a source of immense pride for our entire community,” Baumgarten said.

Her award has made ripples beyond the Great Neck Jewish community, with Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky from Chabad Headquarters also praising the fourth grader.

“Naomi’s victory is a testament to the vibrant future of Judaism,” Kotlarsky said. “It sends a powerful message that despite challenges, our traditions and values will continue to thrive, led by young leaders like Naomi.”

that are vying for the top spot,” Rabbi Baumgarten said.

Naomi said she didn’t achieve this award on her own, attributing it to the support she received from her family and rabbi along the way.

But while her award puts Great Neck on the map, Baumgarten said it also represents a prevailing of the Jewish community and its pride amid rising antisemitism.

“This is the way to fight hate, and to fight darkness is by shining bright,” Rabbi Baumgarten said. “When there’s darkness, a little light can dispel a lot of darkness.”

“Instilling a deep sense of Jewish identity through a comprehensive understanding of our heritage is essential,” Rabbi Zalman Baumgarten, director of Chabad of Great Neck Hebrew

School, said. “It equips our children to face the world with knowledge, pride, and confidence.”

Naomi’s win comes after months of preparation, encompassing hours

Upon making her way to the international level and final stage of the competition, Naomi said she was surprised by her accomplishments. But once she processed the feat she had obtained, excitement set in after she had spent months working on capturing the top award.

“It’s humbling that we have a student that could win such a prestigious award out of about 4,000 students

Alongside Naomi were other Great Neck students participating in the international competition. This included gold medalists sixth grader Nathaniel Moirzadeh of JFK Elementary School and fifth grader Ethan Moirzadeh of North Middle School; silver medalists fifth grader Nathaniel Halimi; third graders Oren Halimi and Olivia Halimi of Baker Hill Elementary.

Naomi said her work isn’t stopping now as she sets her sights on winning again next year.

While her months of prep will need to pick up again this fall, she said she is looking forward to engaging in her hobbies like gymnastics, ice skating and playing with friends until then.

PHOTO BY SHOLEM SRUGO/MERKOS 302, COURTESY OF THE CHABAD OF GREAT NECK

Naomi Cohen was awarded as the champion of the International Jewish Knowledge Championship on April 8.

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Blakeman’s ‘militia’ draws fire from 2,000

BY CAMERYN OAKES

In just two weeks more than 2,000 individuals have signed a petition demanding the disbanding of the county’s new emergency special deputy sheriff program which would deputize residents with firearm licenses to assist law enforcement during emergencies.

On Monday afternoon, petition creator Sabine Margolis handed over the 2,120 signatures to the county legislature’s clerk as she addressed County Executive Bruce Blakeman and the legislators during their meeting.

“Mr. Blakeman, we are a community of very diverse backgrounds,” Margolis said. “Your job is being a steward, and as a steward you need to address what the community needs.”

The petitioning group asked for a public hearing to be held to discuss the issues and “bring some transparency back to our county,” Jody Kass Finkel, coordinator of Concerned Citizens of NY-03, said.

On March 17, the county had an ad published in Newsday calling for special deputy sheriff applicants “for the protection of human life and property during an emergency.” Specifically being sought were individuals with law enforcement or military backgrounds.

The announcement took Nassau County officials by surprise. Legislators and union leaders said they had little knowledge of the initiative and the administration did not seeklegislative approval or consult with union officials.

“This cannot just be a whimsical thing where you put an ad in the paper and they shall come,” Margolis said.

In the wake of the announcement of these positions, many residents and local officials have scrutinized the program for the danger it could present, including multiple Democratic county legislators.

Standing in support of the petition was state Senate District 7 candidate Kim Keiserman, who is a Democrat from Port Washington.

Keiserman said her concerns lie in public safety and a desire to support the county’s already sufficient law enforcement.

“Building a militia of untrained, armed civilian vigilantes does in no way support law enforcement, it doesn’t make our community safer and, in fact, it puts law enforcement and families and children at risk in cases of an emergency if we have

our streets flooded with people who are untrained and unsupervised,” Keiserman said.

While more than 2,000 petitioners have already signed on, Margolis said the petition has garnered more than 10,000 views. She said this makes her proud of those who were brave enough to put their name on the petition.

“So I’m pretty sure there are many more that have the same sentiment but might feel uncomfortable,” Margolis said. “I’d like to be the spark with this petition that people feel comfortable about voicing their opinions and making it a better place.”

Nearly 100 more individuals have signed the petition since it was handed over to the Legislature, with now 2,205 people joining in the cries to disband the emergency law enforcement group.

The political parties of the signees are not available, Margolis said, but cited comments on the petition where individuals said they had voted for Blakeman and were distressed by the emergency deputy sheriffs.

Margolis said it is not a partisan issue, but rather one that concerns the community at large.

She showed a map of the petitioners who have signed on, saying that about 80% reside in Nassau County and one of the biggest communities supporting it is Great Neck.

“I’m very honored to have so many voices support this idea that we should not have a militia, that we should have our voices heard,” Margolis said.

She called the group of emergency special deputy sheriffs a “militia” that is working at the behest of Blakeman. The county executive denied these claims at an April 4 press conference.

Concerns Margolis raised included the potential abuse of power, effects on marginalized communities, safety, vigilanteism and a plethora of unanswered questions about the formation and implementation of the group.

“What is the problem he’s really trying to solve?” Margolis asked. “Why are we doing this? And I think even if you had answers to the questions that we have, we still wouldn’t want the militia.”

Blakeman said at the April 4 press conference that political protests that escalate to riots would be among the kinds of county emergencies in which the special deputy sheriffs would be activated.

Continued on Page 48

PHOTO COURTESY OF CONCERNED CITIZENS OF NY-03

Petition creator Sabine Margolis hands the petition and its more than 2,000 signatures to the Nassau County Legislature during its meeting Monday afternoon.

Schools to get more in budget agreement

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed a budget agreement with the state legislative leaders Tuesday that includes an increase of $1.3 billion in school aid and reinstates the hold harmless policy, a historical procedure that ensured districts received the same amount or more state aid from year to year

“I promised to fight the right fights for New Yorkers, deliver common sense solutions, and tackle the thorny issues that others might ignore, and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” Hochul said. “We’re delivering on a common-sense agenda: fighting crime, fixing our mental health system and building more housing so people can finally afford to live in New York.”

The governor’s initial budget proposal included $35.3 billion in state school aid. Under the agreement, this would rise by about $600 million.

The total amount devoted to school aid now adds up

to $35.9 billion overall, with $24.9 billion attributed to foundation aid – the main source of school funding by the state.

Foundation aid was created in the wake of a 2006 state court decision that determined the state was violating children’s rights by not providing an equitable education across the state. To address the issue, school funding was increased.

The state is making strides to overhaul its foundation aid formula for the first time, with the state Legislature approving a study to be conducted on the formula.

Under the governor’s initial budget proposal in January, the hold harmless protocol was nixed and many school districts saw drops in their foundation aid for the first time since its implementation.

The reinstatement of hold harmless comes after months of pushback by local schools that resisted their drops in foundation aid. Many school districts spoke of the financial strain it imposed on their district as rising costs also put pressure on

their budgets.

This included the Manhasset School District, which drafted a budget that was dependent on its foundation aid being reinstated.

Under the initial proposal, the Manhasset School District was receiving $629,000 less in its foundation aid with net losses in state aid adding up to $511,000.

At about every budget presentation, Superintendent Gaurav Passi advocated for individuals to contact their local state legislators to push for foundation aid to be reinstated.

Many local lawmakers did respond to this pushback, including state Sen. Jack Martins and state Assemblymember Gina Sillitti, who advocated for school funding to be increased by the state.

The state’s total budget is now estimated at $237 billion and the governor said it is expected to be passed by the state Legislature. The budget passage deadline was April 1, with budget discussions delaying its passage for more than two weeks.

The budget proposal also does not raise income or business taxes. State reserves are maintained at 15%.

While the governor said the agreement is expected to pass, Newsday reported that some lawmakers called the announcement “premature” and that issues still exist that need to be resolved.

Also included is an agreement to address New York’s housing crisis that includes tax incentives for affordable housing, making the conversion of empty office spaces into housing easier, eliminating density caps that are outdated and new laws to protect tenants from price gouging.

Other highlights include a statewide tax incentive for multi-family housing, $2.6 billion for the third year of the five-year infrastructure improvement plan and at least $105 million for various mental health services and plans.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Gov. Kathy Hochul.

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Judge dismisses Blakeman lawsuit

BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit Friday filed by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman against State Attorney General Letitia James over her cease-and-desist order demanding Blakeman rescind his ban on transgender girl and women athletes.

The attorney general issued the cease-anddesist order March 1 in an effort to force Blakeman to rescind his executive order, signed Feb. 22, banning transgender girls and women from playing on female sports teams at county facilities. James called the order “transphobic” and “blatantly illegal.”

In response, Blakeman filed a lawsuit against James March 6.

District Court Judge Nusrat Choudhury delivered Friday’s ruling, which found Blakeman could not prevent James from challenging the executive order.

“This decision is a tremendous victory for justice and the rule of law, but our work here is not done,” James said in a statement to Newsday. “County Executive Blakeman’s executive order is transphobic, and we have no room for hate in New York. It’s past time for Nassau County to rescind this order and treat all our communities with the basic respect and dignity they deserve.”

The county executive said he will appeal the decision. The executive order remains in effect.

“I am shocked that a federal judge with a background as a Civil Liberties Union lawyer would not give girls and women their day in court,” Blakeman said in a statement to Blank Slate Media.

All sports teams using Nassau County facilities have to register under one of three categories: men’s and boys’, women’s and girls’ or co-ed teams, Blakeman said.

The executive order forces transgender girl and women athletes to compete in the leagues that correlate with their sex assigned at birth at county facilities, meaning boys’ and men’s teams or co-ed teams. The executive order does not affect transgender boys and men.

Blakeman called Nassau County a “welcoming” and “loving” place and said that transgender boy and men athletes can compete on boys’ and

men’s teams because there is no fairness issue involved at a press conference in March.

In addition to the cease-and-desist order, Blakeman is facing a lawsuit related to his controversial executive order.

The New York Civil Liberties Union and Long Island Roller Rebels, a women’s roller derby league, filed a lawsuit against Blakeman March 11.

The suit calls Blakeman’s executive order “discriminatory” and “unlawful,” arguing that the order violates New York’s Human Rights Law and Civil Rights Law as well as guidance from the state Education Department.

The Long Island Roller Rebels, who are based in Massapequa, currently haveat least one league member who would be prohibitedfrom participating in their league under the executive order, according to the lawsuit.

The Roller Rebels have historically used Nassau County facilities for their events, including outdoor skating rinks at Eisenhower Park and Cedar Creek Park, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit states that as an inclusive women’s league, the Roller Rebels do not inquire about players’ sex assigned at birth, which they would be required to do under the order.

Blakeman accused transgender girl and women athletes who join women’s sports of bullying at a press conference in March.

David Kilmnick, the president of the New York LGBT Network, argued it is transgender students who are bullied, noting the “rising number of violent and hate incidents” against transgender students.

When asked to name a single transgender athlete in Nassau County who attempted to play on one of these county-protected school athletic teams, Blakeman could not provide a name.

Instead, Blakeman said he has heard from a lot of women and girls that they are unhappy about transgender girls’ and women’s involvement in sports. Blakeman emphasized that these measures are meant to be preventative.

“One of [these women] said to me, ‘Do we have to get injured before anybody takes any action?’” Blakeman said. “You don’t have to wait to get punched in the nose to take action in government.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Wine bar, restaurant comes to Port

Owners of Syosset’s Flora’s Pizza Cafe expand their brand in the heart of downtown district

BY SAMUEL SCHULTZ

A new Italian eatery has made its way to Long Island. For those on the prowl for an authentic Italian dining experience, say no more, Flora’s Wine Bar and Restaurant is here. Ervis and Gabriella Xhelaj, owners of Syosset’s Flora’s Pizza Café, have expanded their brand, right in the heart of Port Washington.

Flora’s Wine Bar and Restaurant takes over the previously vacated spot left by Olive Room Meeting Pointe late last year. The newly renovated 40-seat space is highlighted by brick walls, litup wine shelving, sleek red booths, and antique mirrors with a touch of Italianinspired artwork.

Ervis describes his newest restaurant as “Authentic Italian, Warm Ambiance, Friendly Service, Intimate, and cozy”.

“Our goal is to make our restaurant a neighborhood place, a place that you come to two to three times a week and you feel like you belong there, you feel at ease, you enjoy the food, but also the ambiance,” said Ervis. “ We’re a place where you can spend time and relax away from the stresses of everyday life.”

For Ervis his journey in owning a restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes along with fresh organic wine

both started in Italy. Ervis began his restaurant career in the kitchens of Central Italy (Umbria) working as a pizza maker and sous chef while he studied in Perugia, Italy.

Ervis would eventually take his food industry experience to New York City in 2013, and in 2017 he would work for SA Hospitality group, which owned the restaurant Felice 64 in Uptown Manhattan. Over the course of the ensuing years, Ervis would manage multiple locations of the Felice brand until he helped open up Felice Roslyn here on Long Island in 2022.

After finding a house on Long Island for himself, his wife Gabriella and their three children, the couple decided to open up their own restaurant, Flora’s Pizza Café in Syosset, in 2023. Now in 2024 the couple opened their second Iteration of Italian delicacy in Flora’s Wine Bar.

“We always wanted to stay on the north side of the island. Our customer base is from the Roslyn and Syosset area, so we wanted to expand close to our customers,” said Ervis.

Flora’s brings to Port Washington what Ervis calls “a little bit of all around Italy” with biodynamic organic wine and dishes made with only premium ingredients.

“All of our recipes come from me

and my wife’s experiences in Italy and Manhattan.The goal is to bring some of that energy and experience from the city and live it on Long Island,” Ervis said.

His recipes are from all around Italy, indeed, with their pasta dishes including Cacio e Pepe, a signature dish in Rome; Mafaldine alla Bolognese with veal ragu, a signature from Bologna; Paccheri Genovese with slow-cooked veal, a signature from Napoli; Fettuccine al Funghi with porcini mushroom ragu and truffle oil, a signature from Umbria; and Fusilli with sausage and broccoli rabe, a signature dish from the Polia region.

On top of it all Ervis highlights that his recipes include fresh handmade pasta and 24-month-old aged parmigianoreggiano for heightened quality. In addition, dietary and allergy restrictions are met with whole wheat and gluten free pasta along with popular appetizers such as Melanzane and Meatballs that are not fried at all. The meatballs are made strictly from high-quality veal featuring no pork or chicken.

Flora’s Pizza Café signature pizzas have made their way to Flora’s in Port Washington, with the honey pepperoni pizza and Flora’s truffle pizza both including gluten free cauliflower crusts.

Continued on Page 60

James E. Lewis

Stephanie Bello Victor LoGiudice,

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORA’S

Flora’s Win Bar opened its second location, on Port Washington’s Main Street.

European treasure house comes to Port

Scott Defrin moves from Glen Cove Road location in Greenvale to former site of Dolphin Bookstore

BY JASMINE SELLARS

In the heart of Port Washington, a beacon of elegance and history has just emerged as the European Decorative Arts Company brings its masterpieces for all of Long Island and beyond to admire. The new store, owned by seasoned antique dealer Scott Defrin, beckons both locals and travelers to discover the allure of centuries past preserved within its walls. It sits on the corner of Main Street and Shore Road, a busy intersection right near Manhasset Bay, perfect for newcomers looking for a unique browsing experience.

“I hope that it brings back what Port Washington used to be in this area,” Defrin said. “It used to be a very big art antique area and it’s sort of gone away within the last 15 to 20 years. I think that we’re basically bringing back what used to be a very significant part of the antique trade. There were a lot of antique dealers here a long time ago and they also had a lot of antique fairs on this street. So I hope to revive, in a way, what used to be here.” The jewel haven, which moved into town in February, represents a fullcircle moment for the Long Island native, who said his father, an antique collector and clock lover, inspired him to embark on his career.

“My father didn’t know about this particular store because he passed away two years ago, but he knew about my other stores in Greenvale and Manhattan,” Defrin said. “I probably wouldn’t have really gotten into the antique world if it wasn’t for him and my mother. He bought his

Popeleski, state Assemblymember Gina Sillitti and many more.

“It was a terrific event,” Port Washington Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Bobbie Polay said. “We’re welcoming this beautiful new store to the business community in Port Washington. And it’s a wonderful addition. Scott made everybody feel very welcome and we were just very happy to welcome him.”

The company, founded in 1996, has been featured in several store fronts in the Greater New York Area, including Defrin’s prior shop in Greenvale and his gallery in Manhattan, which he owned for 18 years. The Port Washington store now showcases plenty of attractive artifacts, ranging from antique statues, clocks, pottery, jewelry boxes, dinnerware sets, lamps, furniture and plenty of items that date back to hundreds of years ago.

The shop’s inventory reflects Defrin’s discerning eye for quality and authenticity. From the grand “Monumental Centerpiece Jardiniere” to smaller antiques like the boxwood carving depicting “The Adoration of the Magi,” it seems every item has been collected and put on the sales floor for its beauty and historical significance.

first antique object as a result of Main Street in Port Washington.”

The store celebrated its grand opening last Wednesday, welcoming the community to admire and purchase some of the finest European antique goods.

The Port Washington Chamber of Commerce hosted the opening in celebration of the town’s new addition. The chamber invited several elected officials, including Town Council Member Mariann Dalimonte, Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Manorhaven Village Mayor John

Before the new antique store made its way to Port Washington, Defrin said the space had a long history of welcoming influential businesses, including the beloved A.C. Bayles drugstore, a community staple which was built in 1914.

The space was also home to the Dolphin Bookshop, known for its book readings and

Continued on Page 60

PHOTO BY JASMINE SELLARS

European Decorative Arts has opened at the corner of Main Street and Shore Road in Port Washington.

Seder returns to La Baraka on April 29

The Humanist Jewish Congregation of Queens & Long Island is happy to announce that after a four-year hiatus, our Cultural Seder will be held on Monday, April 29 at La Baraka, and the community is invited.

Join us for a Seder experience like no other, with an original Haggadah featuring contemporary and traditional songs in English, Hebrew and Yiddish, poetry, prose and rituals old and new.

Paid reservations are a must: All inclusive: $60 per adult, $45 per child 12 and under, includes a gourmet Passover meal with unlimited wine (vegetarian option available). Space is limited, and no reservations will be accepted after April 22.

Cultural, or Humanistic, Judaism is a stream of Judaism that encourages individual thought and understanding in Judaism. Its relation to Judaism is through the history, culture, civilization, ethical values and shared experiences of the Jewish people.

We celebrate human knowledge, power and responsibility. We read, say and sing what we truly believe — in both Hebrew and Yiddish texts and English translations.

We view the Torah and other founding Jewish narratives as powerful myths that are important for Jewish cultural literacy, but not as history or divine revelation.

For more information and reservations, please call or text HJCQ at 718-428-3320.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City committed to personalized care

By John L. Gomes, MD

John L. Gomes, MD, founded Women’s Health Care of Garden City in 1995. It has remained an independent private practice, providing personalized obstetrical and gynecological services.

He employs the technical advances of conventional medicine with an integrative approach to navigate women through difficult pregnancies into the menopausal years. He treats a wide variety of OB/GYN conditions and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care.

All tests are conveniently done on the premises, and a dedicated, compassionate staff is on call 24/7.

He is committed to excellence in patient communication, education and support, as many patients come with anxiety associated with past experiences and future concerns.

Dr. Gomes received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, and his Doctor of Medicine from Columbia University.

He is both Board Certified and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City is located at 1000 Franklin Avenue, Suite 200, Garden City.

Rally reveals intent to oppose development

Nassau County’s three town supervisors, all Republicans, rallied last week against a proposed bill in the state Legislature that would allow faith-based organizations to override local zoning to build affordable housing.

“We’re here to say to Albany: Stop overriding our local government. Stop overriding our local zoning,” North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said at the rally.

DeSena and the two supervisors were joined at the rally by village mayors, school board presidents, county legislators and state senators who said the legislation represented an attack on the suburban lifestyle.

A press release from the Town of North Hempstead announcing the rally said the officials would demand that “Governor Hochul and state lawmakers stop the “Faith-based Affordable Housing Act” that overrides local zoning laws.”

But there was a problem with the officials’ complaints. The housing legislation was not part of the ongoing budget negotiations in which the bill could be approved.

The governor’s Long Island press secretary told Blank Slate the governor did not propose the bill, did not support the bill and the legislation was not in the proposed budget.

So why the rally?

Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin said he was aware that the governor’s office did not intend to include the bill in the budget but attempts to move the legislation forward might continue in the future

Clavin might be right, but hundreds of bills move forward in the state Legislature that never see the light of day – particularly when the governor does not support them.

The officials were not wrong to support the legislation.

We don’t believe faith-based groups, which receive special protection under federal law on where to locate, should be treated differently than other organizations in following local zoning laws.

The local officials correctly pointed out that 1,100 properties, mostly in residential areas, would be instantly eligible to be zoned for affordable housing.

But expressing concern in the press release about “high-density, five-story apartment buildings” — as opposed to low-density, five-story apartment buildings — ending the suburban dream? Really?

Apartment buildings five stories and more already exist on the North Shore and no one is calling North Hempstead the big city.

More concerning is the apparent opposition stated in the release and at the rally to any new housing. This, in the midst of a housing shortage in New York estimated at 800,000 living units that has caused home prices and rents to soar, driving many people out of the state.

The press release from DeSena’s office said this was the “third straight year Albany lawmakers are pushing plans that override local zoning laws that were put into law decades ago to protect the health, safety and character of local communities.”

Well, yes, we have a housing crisis and the state is actually trying to do something about the problem across the state, including Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Nassau and Suffolk counties have been particularly unhelpful with some of the nation’s most restrictive zoning laws.

Among 32 counties in New York City and its suburbs, Suffolk ranked 32nd and Nassau ranked 31st in the number of housing permits issued from 2010 to 2020, according to a Regional Plan Association report in 2022.

So the state’s efforts to address the housing shortage for three straight years makes sense.

Hochul initially proposed legislation to require municipalities to allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit such as a modest apartment over a garage or a basement unit on all owner-occupied residential zoned lots.

The governor later sought to have the state step into local zoning deci-

sions if municipalities did not achieve a 3% increase in housing units over three years, primarily through transitoriented developments.

But Hochul backed off both times when Nassau County officials from both parties vehemently criticized the plans, calling them an attack on local control and the suburban lifestyle.

Hochul has since turned to offering grants to municipalities that encourage more housing to be built. Mineola was a recent recipient of one grant.

DeSena, like many local officials, has said local officials are in the best position to make zoning decisions.

She also said she is in the process of developing a town master plan that would address the housing issues. But she has yet to give any details on how this is being done, by whom and what it will cover.

Villages, not the town, make most zoning decisions in North Hempstead. Will villages be part of the master plan? If not, how will the housing in the villages be addressed?

There is also the question of whether local officials are best suited to address the housing shortage. Local officials have not significantly increased housing over the past 50 years.

What makes anyone believe they will do so now, especially when this may conflict with their constituents’ financial interests and what they want?

The rise in home prices propelled by the housing shortage may be bad for New York’s economy but it is good for the value of residents’ homes. And it is the residents who live here who vote, not those who would like live here.

The press release issued by DeSena’s office for the rally cast further doubt on the willingness of local officials to encourage new housing due to its impact on schools.

“With the cost of education at $36,000 per pupil on Long Island, an influx of students from apartments will cost local homeowners millions in higher taxes and stretch school infrastructure beyond its limits at a time when New York State is proposing school aid cuts across Long Island,” the release said. “This population increase will also impact government services such as sanitation, sewage, drinking water, roadways, and more.”

Talk about a won’t-do spirit. But this is not unexpected. School districts have in recent years been among the vocal opponents of new housing.

One wonders who was running schools when the town’s population grew from 142,613 to 235,087 between 1950 and 1970.

That is not the case now. School enrollment dropped 3.4% in Nassau County from the 2012-2013 to the 2022-2023 school year

In North Hempstead enrollment

essentially stayed the same overall with disparities within school districts. Carle Place decreased 8.9%, East Williston had a 8.2% drop and Manhasset recorded an 8.1% decline. Herricks was an outlier with a 12.8% rise.

The $36,000 in spending per pupil on Long Island is actually well below what some school districts on the North Shore spend. They are more in the $35,000 to $40,000 per pupil range and go as high as $45,000.

By contrast, Florida and Texas, popular destinations for New Yorkers leaving the state that are often lauded for their affordability, spend $,9,983 and $9,872 per pupil.

But owners of new apartment buildings would also pay these high taxes.

And Nassau County, with its 56 school districts, could also develop ways to reduce costs to accommodate more students including eliminating programs that would be considered luxuries almost anywhere else.

Yes, state aid has declined in many districts across Long Island after years of across-the-board increases.

State Budget Director Blake Washington told Newsday school aid increased by $7 billion over the last three years, with an additional $13 billion increase in federal aid during the same period.

What to do when (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction

Flowers are blooming, the Masters was just played, baseball has started and spring has sprung.

Who could ask for anything more?

Yet despite flowers and golf and baseball something seems terribly wrong. Iran has attacked Israel and many worry that nuclear war is somehow looming.

Two of the most popular non-fiction books of the year are about what happens after a nuclear catastrophe. And the way both Annie Jacobson (“Nuclear War: A Scenario”) and Sarah Scoles (“Countdown: The Blinding Future of Nuclear Weapons”) describe a post- nuclear world, it’s way scarier than COVID. They predict the death toll would be about 2 billion.

I just had lunch with former state Sen. Mike Balboni, president of Redland Strategies, a crisis management consulting firm. Mike spends his time flying around the globe advising nations and global institutions on how to prepare for and how to manage natural and manmade crisis.

But the threat of nuclear war is not the only disturbing feature of modern life. We also have artificial intelligence to cope with, the ever encroaching presence of social media and the bewildering nature of

living in a global village with multiculturalism and diversity at the forefront.

Life, as it presently stands, is a confusing affair. America provides us with an endless array of goods and services. Our access to entertainment is never ending. Any film ever made is now at our finger tips through streaming devices. If one wants to do research, we have the ability to read almost anything ever written.

We all have the chance to eat what we want, see what we want and travel to where we want. And yet ours is a civilization of great discontent which is why the threat of nuclear war is quite real.

Freud pointed out that we have two major drives. The drive to live and the drive to die. He called this libido and destrudo.

Most journalists, artists and literary types were heavily influenced by Freud, but they all focused on the life force, or our sex drives.

No one seemed to want to talk much about destrudo, or our death wish. But our death wish is very much a part of us, why the threat of war is ever present and why we ought to be concerned about this growing sense of dissatisfaction.

One must ask why there is such dissatisfaction in a world of such abundance.

Many poets, philosophers, and writers

about the same time, may reveal the problem we have with abundance. The more we have, the more we want. And furthermore no one seems to be able to guide us toward ways to be satisfied. Poets have made efforts to guide us. Back in the 12th century French poet Chrétien de Troyes began the story called “Perceval, The Story of the Grail” about a knight who searched for the Holy Grail, but he came up empty in the end.

Since then filmmakers like Steven Spielberg have made films about this quest as well, the most popular being “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

people remain frustrated and apparently unable to find any satisfaction is cause for concern, especially when things like nuclear weapons are still with us.

I suspect that there are a variety of pathways to happiness or what one of my patients refers to as the golden ticket. Some may find it in literature, some in music, some through sports and some in a temple or a church. Transcendentalists like Whitman, Emerson or Thoreau recommended we find joy in nature.

Whatever your path to joy is, I recommend you walk along it as frequently as you can.

have wondered about this as well. Edward Albee wrote the one-act play “The American Dream” in 1961 and the repeated refrain throughout the play from both Mommy and Daddy was that they simply could not get any “satisfaction.”

And picking up where Edward Albee left off, The Rolling Stones wrote “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” in 1965, which became one of the world’s most popular songs of all time. That song was about sexual frustration and the problems with commercialism.

Both of those pieces of art, written

American poet Walt Whitman said that the world is filled with endless satisfaction if we only open our eyes. I think Jesus Christ said the same thing 2,000 years ago with his oft-quoted remark, “The kingdom of heaven is within you and all around you.”

We all need a little help in finding joy, peace and happiness. The fact that it’s so hard to come by explains why psychologists such as me are so busy. The civilized world is set up in such a way that it demands we control our sexual and our aggressive drives.

Commercialism is set up to tempt us to buy things in order to bring a measure of happiness to ourselves. The fact that

There are many ways to find joy. Some find it in nature

Advice to state: Don’t municipalize LIPA

In 2022, the state Legislature created a commission that was wired to recommend in 2023 that the municipalization of the management of the Long Island Power Authority’s electrical grid “represents the best alternative for LIPA ratepayers.”

That recommendation, in my judgment, is ludicrous.

But before explaining my opposition, recounting LIPA’s history in a nutshell is necessary.

For over half a century, the generation, distribution and maintenance of electrical power on Long Island has been a hot potato tossed around by governors, county executives and local pols fearful of being held accountable for outlandishly high electric rates and blackouts.

In the early 1970s, politicians panicked when the Middle East embargo pushed the price per barrel of oil to over $60, causing significantly higher local electrical charges.

Fearful of voter backlash, they supported the Long Island Lighting Company’s plan to build a nuclear plant that they were certain would provide an unlimited supply of cheap power.

Construction of LILCO’s Shoreham nuclear facility began in 1973 and was nearing completion by 1984. In May 1988, however, with changes in the political climate—and with memories of gas lines fading—federal and state officials blocked Shoreham from opening. The environmental lobby was appeased, but LILCO was destroyed financially.

To deal with the disaster, a 2023 Empire Center report noted “LIPA was first established to buy out the ill-fated Shoreham nuclear plant and eventually bought out LILCO completely . The multibillion-dollar debt from the never opened Shoreham (roughly $13 billion adjusted for inflation), plus additional debt taken on since, has caused Long Islanders to pay electricity prices above both the state and national averages.”

As a New York State public benefit corporation, LIPA was intended to be nothing more than a holding company with no more than 15 staffers to oversee financing and debt management. The actual maintenance, generation, transmission and distribution work was to be handled first by KeySpan, then National Grid and later PSEG. Instead, LIPA ballooned to over 100 employees as the

Irene and 2012’s Hurricane Sandy.

Reacting to the Hurricane Sandy disaster, an angry Gov. Andrew Cuomo responded by pushing through the Legislature the LIPA Reform Act and directed LIPA to replace National Grid with PSEG.

As a third-party manager, PSEG has been far from perfect, but it has been more than adequate.

So why municipalize its services?

paid employees, particularly a CEO to replace the well-respected Tom Falcone who, unfortunately, resigned in March.

authority became a dumping ground for the relatives of politically connected seeking high-paying employment. Because LIPA squandered hundreds of millions of new debt on consultants, on failed fuel cells, electric buses, solar panels, and costly research and development programs that yielded little investments in nuts and bolts, infrastructure suffered. The effects of this neglect became evident during 2011’s Hurricane

The Empire Center has concluded it does not make any sense: “A fully municipalized LIPA can’t do it any cheaper….Capital costs won’t be any lower… It is also already able to access Federal Emergency Management Agency funds for repair of storm damage that is not available to private utilities….It’s hard to discern what’s the real point of the municipalization proposal.”

There are other practical reasons for opposing a takeover. First and foremost, the day-to-day oversight management of Long Island’s entire electrical power system would be overseen by a board consisting of political cronies who can turn it into a political patronage mill.

A politically driven board would have trouble attracting qualified highly

And what about the hundreds of PSEG employees who perform the dayto-day management and upkeep of the electrical infrastructure? Will they become LIPA employees eligible for lucrative state pensions? The cost to ratepayers to fund the pensions would be exorbitant and would increase the already sky-high usage costs.

And then there is the question of responsibility. If PSEG is no longer responsible for managing, then it cannot be blamed for blackouts or failed emergency responses. Instead, the blame would fall on—you guessed it—Gov. Hochul, who controls LIPA.

No, the municipalizing of the electrical system makes no sense practically or politically.

The good news: Albany insiders tell me Gov. Hochul has realized there is no political upside for her and has quietly put the kibosh on the LIPA enabling legislation.

Hopefully, she stands by her decision.

PHOTO BY TOM FERRARO

Playing whack-a-mole with our water

Irecently spoke to a community group in Huntington about Long Island’s water problems and was not surprised to see how much people cared about this topic. Most people had heard about emerging chemical contaminants like PFAS and 1,4-dioxane and the toxic legacy plumes off the Grumman site in Bethpage and MacArthur Airport, although their knowledge of the details was a little fuzzy.

Concern about drinking the water on Long Island persuaded the organizers of the meeting to provide plastic bottles of water and many in the audience brought their own with them. But as I had to explain, water from a plastic bottle comes with its own chemicals of concern which have harmful health effects for humans.

People are right to be concerned about PFAS, of course. The short acronym for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances has become almost a household word, with recent studies demonstrating just how dangerous this family of “forever” chemicals can be. PFAS are among the most persistent and ubiquitous synthetic chemicals in the world, providing non-stick, water, grease and stain resistant properties to thousands of everyday products, from clothing and food packaging to non-stick cookware and dental floss. Contamination from PFAS in firefighting foam and other industrial uses also contributes to our exposure via air and water. Approximately 98 percent of Americans now have PFASin

their bodies.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took action last week to limit the amount of several PFAS allowed in drinking water by releasing its final “PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation Rulemaking” in an attempt to reduce the public’s exposure to PFAS.

Scientists and medical researchers have been recommending that EPA regulate the entire class of PFAS chemicals, since it contains approximately 15,000 different combinations that all have at their core a single chemical attribute: an incredibly strong carbon and fluorine bond. But the EPA has stuck to its old (some would say, out-dated) method of regulating chemicals one by one. In this case, it is six, singling out two of the most common types, PFOS and PFOA, for a drinking water standard of 4 parts per trillion. To understand how small this amount is, one part per trillion is equivalent to a single drop of water in twenty Olympic-sized swimming pools. Drinking water systems are required to meet these new standards within five years.

But PFAS is toxic in tiny amounts, and the health problems it can cause can be deadly and they are happening now. Studies of individuals exposed to PFAS-contaminated water have shown increased reproductive problems, developmental effects or delays in children, immunotoxicity, thyroid disease, and an increased

PATTI WOOD Earth Matters

incidence of kidney, prostate, testicular, and pancreatic cancer. Exposure to PFAS is nothing to fool around with.

The only shred of good news here is that PFAS can be filtered from public water supplies using special processes incorporating charcoal filtration systems. Drivers who pass by the water facility at Christopher Morley Park may have seen the giant filters being installed there. Filtration is expensive, but it works.

Problems with the water in plastic bottles are not as easily solved.

First of all, you should know that there are no government regulations on bottled water. The water you buy could be filtered or unfiltered tap water. Or it could

be from a spring somewhere in the mountains. You can’t be certain of its origin.

Second, the water in plastic bottles is likely to contain thousands of tiny plastic particles, also known as nanoplastics — solid plastic particles with a size less than one millionth of a meter, unintentionally produced by the degradation and fragmentation of larger plastic items.

A recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences using new dual-laser technology developed by scientists at Columbia and Rutgers Universities, found that the average 16-ounce bottle of water contained about 240,000 microscopic pieces of plastic. 90% of these were nanoplastics and 10% were microplastics- plastic pieces less than five millimeters in length or the size of a pencil eraser. Nano-and microplastics are created when plastic materials begin to break down in the environment, and we now understand that this material never goes away, but becomes a much greater hazard to humans and all living things as it becomes smaller.

Last month a lawsuit was filed against Poland Springs for claiming their water was 100% natural spring water, when in fact is was found to be laden not only with hundreds of thousands of bits of plastic, but with more than 4,000 phthalates –ubiquitous chemicals that are linked to endocrine disruption.

That wasn’t a surprise, at least to me.

Readers of this column will recall that plastic is made from a combination of a fossil fuel feedstock (natural gas and oil) and complex mixtures of chemicals which give different plastics their unique qualities. Those chemicals also migrate into the water inside the plastic bottle, even at room temperature.

So if tap water contains PFAS chemicals and bottled water contains plastic bits as well as chemicals, what are people supposed to do? The answer, for now, is to filter your tap water through a carbon filter. Do your research to find the best ones.

You can also install a whole-house carbon filter that removes PFAS from all of your water, but this can be expensive and needs to be done by a qualified plumber.

Whichever process you choose, make sure you store your filtered water in glass or stainless steel containers, as these will add no chemicals or plastic to your water.

We often hear politicians complain about how regulations hurt business and kill jobs, but regulations enacted decades ago could have prevented the contamination of our water with PFAS and forced plastic manufacturers to find ways to prevent their products from becoming a global catastrophe.

Now we all have to spend our time and our money trying to purify our own water. Think about that the next time you hear a politician complain about regulations.

Blakeman shows unfitness as county exec

There was a reason after the George Floyd protests over the epidemic of police killings of unarmed Black men and women that then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo compelled local police reform to be more accountable. Now Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman wants to do an end-run around “responsible policing” and create his own private armed militia who he can summon upon declaring an emergency. They would essentially be beyond responsibility, accountability and transparency.

When Nassau County Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D-Glen Cove) raised an alarm that such a private militia smacked of the Brownshirts in the early days of Nazi Germany, Blakeman reacted with indignation, called her an anti-Semite and in typical inappropriate fashion, called for her to “Resign!” “Get Out of Town!” How dare she question his executive order to deputize gun-wielding sheriffs whenever he chooses to declare an emergency.

What emergency? It could be a Superstorm Sandy. Or it could be a protest over a killing of an unarmed black teen by police. Or maybe it will be the upcoming November 2024 election, and this armed goon squad will be stationed at particular polling places, just in case.

How could anyone think that these good citizens, who just want to “give back to their community,” could ever abuse their authority (what authority is that, exactly?), Blakeman wondered. They will be given weapons training, training in the use of deadly force (!) and the penal

code, even though many of the 100 or so who have already volunteered have backgrounds where they use weapons – FBI, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, detectives and NYPD retirees. The good guys with a gun. What could possibly go wrong?

After all, it never happens that a police officer guns down an unarmed civilian or beats a protester or suspect senseless, or that confusion over who is the “good guy with a gun” vs. the bad guy ever results in law enforcement or innocent people getting gunned down. And these are professionals, who train regularly and are practiced in what they do, “not wanna-be cops who own guns,” as Good Government activist Jody Kass put it.

A reminder: an untold number of the Jan. 6 insurrectionists who assaulted Capitol Police and would have killed Nancy Pelosi were ex-military, police, government officials, elected and candidates who have declared their loyalty not to the Constitution but to Trump and the MAGA “cause.”

Nor does Blakeman provide any of those pesky details about how his militia would be organized, commanded, controlled, and held responsible. Will these individuals wear a uniform or just wave a pretend badge along with their gun?

How would the public know they have authority or whether this is a pretender masquerading as a “deputized sheriff?”

There is no description of how these individuals will be selected, vetted (will “Do you believe the 2020 election was stolen” be one of the questions?), trained, who they would be accountable to or how

trigger-happy deputy panics, makes a mistake or misfires and kills an innocent, or even an actual police officer, or the police officer mistakes the “deputy” for the criminal? What is the liability to the county? Ooopsy. My bad. (Suffolk just had to pay out $20 million in damages for a police shooting.)

What happens when this deputy turns into a vigilante, inserting himself into a situation and escalating violence, believing he has authority?

there were no riots and sufficient assistance was provided by the National Guard. Indeed, Nassau County already has Community Emergency Response Team volunteers trained by FEMA.

they would be held to account, or even what function they would perform that warrants a gun.

Dozens of Nassau County residents appeal to Nassau Legislature to compel County Executive Bruce Blakeman to end his plan for an private armed militia © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Like his transgender ban, Blakeman provides no evidence to justify the need for a new militia – it is a solution (or rather an objective) in search of a problem — though the sound of it, “militia,” is appealing, like the militias on the southern border that freely terrorize people or the goon squads (“election police”) employed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to intimidate people from voting.

These “deputies” will be armed as they are “guarding.” What happens if a

Indeed, Blakeman who is now consistently auditioning for a more prominent position among the Trump MAGAs, loves vigilantes. Blakeman went into Manhattan to rally in support of Daniel Penny, the 24-year old Marine charged with choking to death 30-year old (black) Jordan Neely on a New York City subway train.

But if this were about “public safety,” he would not have held up funding to hire police officers or for fentanyl treatment and PSAs. He would focus his attention on making the Nassau University Medical Center solvent. He would address the epidemic of traffic deaths largely because of a rise in people driving impaired by alcohol and drugs.

If Blakeman were concerned about public health, he would be encouraging residents to get vaccinated, give proper notice when there is an uptick in infectious disease and encourage people to mask.

Blakeman cites Superstorm Sandy as an example of an emergency that might warrant him summoning his militia. But during the two weeks of power outages,

“The timing is interesting,” Helen Riordan told Nassau County Legislators, “Is this creation to support the next round of election deniers? Would they have access to ballot boxes if called up? If the National Guard is under the authority of the governor, and the militia under the county executive, would their interests clash, diverge? How would they avoid conflict?

A program like this requires significant oversight to insure it is not weaponized for a single person’s political purpose. Hiring armed civilians is a bad idea and this body should insure this program is dropped now.”

Riordan was one of dozens of residents who protested to the Nassau Legislature demanding they disband Blakeman’s “unnecessary and dangerous” militia. Sabine Margolis of Great Neck, presented them with a petition signed by 2,100 (to date) that calls on Blakeman to “stop the nonsense and start doing his job– such as protecting Long Island’s precious natural resources, revitalizing our downtowns, fixing the county’s broken assessment system, finding a solution to the NUMC’s financial problems, lowering our taxes.”

Margolis said she created the petition because “everyone is concerned about the danger, divisiveness, and cost of Blakeman’s militia. He needs to know how unhappy his constituents are.”

KAREN RUBIN

View Point

SHINGING A LIGHT FOR CHARITY

The INN changes the lives of those in need

L.I.G.H.T. FOR CHARITY™ (‘Long Island Giving Help Together For Charity’) is my column where I shine a light on a different Long Island-based charity each month. For this column, I focus on The INN, which is a not-for-profit volunteer organization that seeks to transform lives by addressing hunger, homelessness and profound poverty through awareness, action and generosity.

The INN was founded in 1983 as a single soup kitchen run out of a church in Hempstead by a small group of concerned volunteers.

As other communities throughout Long Island witnessed the success of The INN’s work in Hempstead, it be-

came clear that more work was needed on a broader scale throughout Long Island to address the needs of the hungry. Volunteers then formed an interfaith network of soup kitchens to feed the hungry throughout Long Island.

The volunteers at The INN quickly learned that dealing with hunger is only one of several problems facing soup kitchen guests. For example, many of the adults and children who visit The INN are also struggling with homelessness.

The INN has therefore expanded its range of services and has grown to become the largest private social service agency of its kind on Long Island.

The INN operates the largest soup

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

kitchen on Long Island, which serves hot and cold nutritious sit-down meals and to-go meals (100 Madison Ave., Hempstead, NY, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.). The soup kitchen serves over 300,000 meals annually, and also distributes other essential provisions to its guests such as pantry bags, clothing, toiletries and baby items.

The INN also operates a Center for Transformative Change, located immediately adjacent to the soup kitchen. This Center assists guests of the soup kitchen to improve their life circumstances and/or become self-sufficient.

The Center offers free clothing (including business attire for job in-

FROM THE DESK OF SIELA A. BYNOE

terviews) and housewares and assists guests with access to resources such as government benefits, housing/shelter placements and employment.

The INN provides even more services helping those in need, including the provision of emergency shelters (one family shelter and one shelter for single men, both of which are open 24/7), and the provision of long-term housing.

If you’d like to help The INN, you can do so by donating funds, donating goods (for example, food, diapers and other personal care items) or volunteering time.

For more information, please visit The INN’s website at www.the-inn.org.

What’s needed  for NUMC to survive

The finances of Nassau Health Care Corporation– the public benefit corporation that operates Nassau University Medical Center and the A. Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility –are in desperate need of emergency resuscitation.

We reached this fiscal cliff after years of funding infusions from the state. These resources were never intended to be a permanent source of revenue, but to serve as a temporary bridge to facilitate the rightsizing of the hospital’s operations. Unfortunately, year after year, this money has not met its intended goals.

Seeking answers about growing operational losses and a clear, on-therecord plan for NUMC’s long-term stability, I called for public hearings on March 31 and June 7, 2023. On July 24, I joined a meeting called by CSEA Local 830, which was attended by other elected officials and some members of the former NUMC Forward task force, for discussions that included my proposal for creating a more symbiotic Nassau Health Care Corporation.

Components of my plan entail transferring A. Holly Patterson to the NUMC campus and developing the surrounding property to integrate rehabilitation and assisted-living communities, thereby

connecting residents to the Hospital’s crucial clinical practices and addressing the under-utilization of NUMC’s campus.

Former CEO and Medical Director Dr. Anthony Boutin said the plan had merit and could play a role in sustaining the hospital into the future. Thereafter, I reiterated my request for a hearing on Dec. 18 in the interest of obtaining an update on the hospital’s financial status and its short- and long-term viability plans.

In late February2024,a report by the accounting firm Alvarez & Marshal projected that NuHealth could be out of cash by the end of April. This dire posture marks the culmination of years of staggering – and growing – operating losses that reached $164 million in 2022, climbed to $180 million in the following year, and continue to fuel the threat of NuHealth’s closure.

Despite these annual losses, the chairman is holding board meetings only quarterly, which violates the Nassau County Charter’s requirement for six meetings per year. Leadership did not adequately plan for the scheduled conclusion of the state’s Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment program, and last year failed to apply for their share of millions in state aid for dis-

SIELA A. BYNOE Nassau County Legislator

tressed hospitals. Cronyism and political patronage continue unabated — a fact made evident by the recent hiring of an embattled former sheriff at $275,000/ year.

In recent weeks,New York State has once again taken action to sustain this hospital by offering $83 million in additional resources, but this time, the money comes with a series of conditions to address a “lack of strong leadership, transparency, communication, and fiscal strategy.” These include submission of a five-year transformation plan, a quality improvement plan, and breakdowns of

READERS WRITE

salary and lobbying costs; an immediate search for a new CEO; outside oversight of management hires and appointments; and outside approval for contracts and payments over $10 million.

As a former deputy director and executive director of public corporations whose career has involved turning around housing authorities considered to be troubled,I have interacted with oversight agencies to improve performance and implement best practices like those being proposed. The requirements are eminently reasonable for an institution that has received numerous tranches of short-term funding from the state. If they are going to be bailed out yet again, such resources should be tied to certain benchmarks.

The chairman’s refusal of the offer was shortsighted, and his response further illustrates how his leadership has been a central problem. Cognizant of the far-reaching repercussions, I hope County Executive Blakeman will take this as an opportunity to evolve on this issue.

Should conditions further worsen, the state would be empowered to install a receiver to operate the hospital – an outcome that would not be optimal for county residents. The best path forward is one in which a turnaround plan is

implemented by an effective leadership team formed of local community leaders who are directly accountable to those they serve.

Bold, collaborative action – including the complete and full funding of Medicaid reimbursement rates for hospitals and nursing homes by the State – is needed to rescue these safety-net facilities and sustain them for the longterm benefit of our region. We owe this to the families who rely upon them for essential care and the more than 3,500 employees who work so diligently at these facilities to deliver top-level care. These healthcare heroes were here for us during the tremendously uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, as the survival of Nassau University Medical Center, a level 1 trauma that treats over 80,000 emergency patients, handles over 178,000 patient visits annually, and features a state-of-the-art burn center, hangs in the balance, stakeholders must alleviate their uncertainty by accepting the state’s reasonable requirements and working collaboratively toward the hospital’s long-term sustainability and success.

Siela A. Bynoe, of Westbury, the Nassau County Legislature’s Alternate Deputy Minority Leader, has represented the Legislature’s Second District since 2014.

Take greater care in prescribing drugs

Dear Doctor, I realize you’re only human—but stop—please stop.

Before you e-script the prescription for your Parkinson’s patient or your new senior patient or the mother of three with a UTI, did you take time to review their list of daily medications? Did you consider that failing to do so could cause lasting and devastating con-

sequences?

The Parkinson’s patient may require a kidney transplant from severe drug interactions, Interactions that could have been totally avoided from a benign new condition.

The senior patient, prescribed the wrong prescription eye drop containing a beta blocker ingredient, may stop breathing overnight. And pass away. Af-

ter a single dose. As for the mom with three kids and a urinary tract infection – well, who knows?

Dear Doctor- you’re only human. You may be tired and running behind schedule. Perhaps, the Wall Street corporation that owns and operates your mega-medical practice dictates you work even faster. Demands you see even

more patients. Limits office visits to 10 minutes. Insists you stop returning patient phone calls. Whatever extenuating circumstances are taking place in your world—stop. Please stop.

Your patient’s daily meds, sometimes, many meds, are listed in their chart. But it does no good if you don’t review it. Carefully. Assessing for possible negative drug interactions. Next time,

the friendly pharmacist or family advocate may not catch your mistake in time.

*Thank you, local Great Neck pharmacist for your dedication, professionalism and compassion. By prioritizing patient care first, you saved a life. You know who you are.

Judy Shore Rosenthal Great Neck

FROM THE DESK OF JACK MARTINS

Back to the drawing board on airplane noise

My friend and I speak on the phone several times a week.

But he has a pretty hectic work and home life, so he tends to call me when he’s out walking his dog.

Besides calls at odd hours and his being hard of hearing (he refuses to get a hearing aid) we’ve noted that our conversations are growing more tedious lately because of airplane noise.

Unfortunately, it seems there are frequent breaks in our discussion to allow for low-flying planes that are roaring above. While I recall this happening from time to time in the past, lately it seems nearly impossible to have a complete discussion, so we typically just agree to talk later.

Clearly, this is not a data-driven observation, just my own anecdotal experience, but I also hear from dozens of constituents a week who have similar complaints.

We live by two of the nation’s busiest airports, so this is nothing new to anyone reading this.

For my part, I’ve dealt with this issue for more than 20 years, first as a mayor of Mineola who attended TownVillage Aircraft Safety & Noise Abatement Committee meetings. And in subsequent years as your state senator, there has been no other, single topic that has been a more persistent nuisance to our communities.

Plainly speaking, I’ve written more letters to the FAA, met with more Port Authority officials, held more public hearings, and demanded more studies than I can even remember. I even sponsored legislation in Albany and yet here we are. The noise remains and, in fact, seems to be getting worse.

At the heart of the matter is an imbalanced distribution of air traffic, with a disproportionate number of landing flight paths directly over our

This leaves an indisputable negative impact on the general well-being and health of our communities.

Knowing this, you would think improvements could be made easily enough, but changes are subject to a complex web of relationships between the federal government’s Federal Aviation Administration, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and numerous airlines. So, the key to getting anything done will rest in us obtaining an objective analysis of the noise impact at ground level.

To that end, the state Legislature passed a law requiring the Department of Health to conduct such a study and report it by March 31, 2024 – just two weeks ago.

porting any progress back to you.

I know that summer is approaching and many of us hope to spend more time outdoors. To keep the pressure on, I recently hosted another airplane noise work session, this time with Michael Koblenz, the mayor of East Hills.

He might be the only living Long Island official to get more noise complaints than me and yet he hasn’t given up the fight. While the meeting was open to all we were encouraged to see nearly 40 public officials there who agreed that urgent action was needed. But I won’t sugarcoat it.

neighborhoods.

To maintain these approaches, pilots are compelled to fly at lower altitudes and increase engine thrusting, consequently amplifying noise levels.

As I’m sure you’ve guessed by now, no such study was presented and when we pressed for it, we were told that they’re still working on it. Of course, I’ll be staying on this and re-

At times I feel like an exasperated Wile E. Coyote, going back to his drawing board to hatch another plan to catch the road runner. But like Wile E., I don’t give up easy. So, stay tuned. We have more sessions in the works with new ideas and new neighbors who are ready to lead the charge.

READERS WRITE

Here a bright star

Here a bright star Sweeps away the night with its brilliance breathing life to our world, a great tide rolling like a breeze to water turn my morning thoughts clever.

Shimmering the green grass with pearls of dew, honey drops dangle from the eaves like fireflies and tiny crystal prisms. Illuminating from tree to roof to street to me, urging all the bold hues it can muster everywhere completes an earthly story.

Dark patches of birds hidden among the leaves of trees shake these sleepy streets with their sighs— tender notes—Awaken!

All the blooms of spring, all the joy and laughter, all the gentle moments and beauty wash over my dark depths—life’s hectic pace and harsh lines—are but moments of a dream that soar without restraint!

If sometimes I still long for the pace of my childhood leisures, it’s because ahead lies infinity, even though I don’t know what it is.

But if dreams can set sail of their own accord to distant shores without me, I will be lonely.

Let’s sit here a while under the infinite sky you and I, watching the moments fly and sip cups of coffee in our garden taking portraits.

If this is paradise at least there’s the sun, the ever-radiant sun!

Its energy carries us on a journey in all its wonderful variations. I thank the heavens for one more day and that I’m in it.

Stephen Cipot Garden City Park

Let’s stop polluting our water with lawn fertilizer

Here on Long Island, fertilizing your lawn is a rite of spring. But these days, spreading the wrong fertilizer on your lawn this spring could pollute our water, raise your taxes, and cause health problems down the road.

Since we’re surrounded by water, and we literally live directly on top of our drinking water aquifers, some portion of whatever we put

on our lawns eventually either migrates into those aquifers or runs off with stormwater into nearby ponds, streams, or bays.

There are two reasons why this is a problem. First, many of the most popular fertilizers contain PFAS, those infamous “forever chemicals” that are known to cause a number of serious human health problems. The PFAS is either contained in the biosolids used in some fertilizers or in

the plastic coating used to make water soluble nitrogen “slow release.”

Last week, the EPA released standards for the amount of PFAS that can be permitted in drinking water, and water departments across the country are scrambling to meet those standards. It’s going to cost money, and you’re going to pay for it.

The second problem is that high levels of nitrogen in lawn fertiliz-

ers (more than 12%, the first of the three numbers on the fertilizer bag) contribute to algal blooms and fish kills in our bays and ponds. It also contaminates our drinking water, so again, your local water department will be spending your tax dollars to remove it from the water you drink.

The solution to this dual fertilizer problem is to ask your retailer for lawn fertilizer that’s PFAS-free and has no more than 12% nitrogen.

There are plenty of products available that can make your lawn look great and won’t increase your tax bill, impact your family’s health, or pollute our water.

Doug Wood Port Washington

The author is coordinator of LIWater.org, a coalition of non-profit and community groups working to protect Long Island’s water.

JACK MARTINS New York State Senator

Dr. James Haklar: Solar eclipse photos taken in white light and ultraviolet light

READERS WRITE

MTA overtime still out of control after all this time

Recent news that overtime for MTA employees grew to a record $1.4 billion in 2023 is nothing new. The ongoing problems of excessive overtime of over $1 billion annually for MTA employees has gone on since 2018. This is despite repeated promises by current MTA Chairman Janno Lieber and his predecessor, Pat Foye, LIRR President Richard Free, and his predecessors Catherine Rinaldi and Philip Eng along with other MTA operating agency presidents to significantly reduce excessive employee overtime.

It will never be resolved until real change is implemented by MTA leadership. Every generation of MTA chairmen, agency presidents, board members, finance officers and executive management who manage agency budgets, since the 1980s has made the wrong choice.

They believed it would be cheaper to pay overtime than hire additional employees, whose critical specialized skills were necessary for maintaining

functioning safe and reliable transportation operations. They thought it would be less expensive by avoiding the costs of training, full-time salary plus fringe, medical insurance and pensions by not increasing the headcounts of various departments.

This has contributed to excessive overtime expenses..There is a difference between necessary overtime due to malfunctioning equipment, accidents or adverse weather conditions when attempting to restore service vs. others. There is still significant overtime abuse and out-of-control pensions.

Employees with seniority in their last year of employment enjoy lots of overtime. This results in record pensions upon retirement the following year. MTA management needs to reduce mandatory excessive overtime and double shifts to complete capital projects.

This is sometimes done to placate public officials so they may participate in ribbon- cutting ceremonies during

election seasons. MTA union leadership consistently out negotiates management when it comes to work rules and assignments, medical insurance contributions and pensions. There is still ongoing recording of time and attendance that relies on a honor system. How effective have the installation of biometric time clocks connected into the MTA Payroll System? How many supervisors continue signing off on overtime work hour abuses by employees and are not held accountable by their own supervisors?

Private sector business would have an up-to-date time, attendance and payroll system years ago. They would insist on documented justification for employee overtime pay.

The MTA continues to be unsuccessfully in negotiating contracts with NYC Transit bus, subway, Staten Island Rail Way, MTA Bus, Long Island and Metro North Rail Road unions to include more flexible work assignments.

The option to contract out more

work to the private sector or hiring part time employees must be more readily available as appropriate without sacrificing the safety and system reliability that riders count on. Salary increases should never exceed the Consumer Price Index. Employees need to increase contributions toward medical insurance and retirement pensions just as other government, private sector employees, taxpayers and commuters do. Future pensions must be calculated based on the final year’s base salary and not inflated by overtime.

Federal civil servants pensions are calculated based on the average for the last three years of employment. Overtime is not included in determining the pension of federal employees. Allow MTA workers to remain part time while collecting a portion of their pension.

This affords experienced employees time to train replacements and be available during emergencies.

Many federal agencies already of-

fer this opportunity to employees who are contemplating full retirement. A larger pool of employees including those part time could help deal with morning and evening peak service requirements along with unanticipated emergency disruptions. Allow unions to bid on projects like the private sector.

Offer union employees bonuses like outside vendors when completing projects ahead of schedule or under budget. Share these cost savings with union employees. Every dollar counts be it generated by riders paying at the fare box, city, state or Federal Transit Administration grants. Taxpayers expect nothing less.

Larry Penner Great Neck

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

TRIBUTES AND MEMORIES

Andrew Malekoff (1951–2024) was born in Newark, New Jersey. His parents, Evelyn and Isadore Malekoff, moved the family to Maplewood, New Jersey, where Andy attended Columbia High School. Following in his father’s footsteps, he was an outstanding student-athlete, receiving the Athlete of the Year Award from Columbia High School and being inducted into the Columbia HS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2020.

A 1973 graduate of Rutgers University, Malekoff majored in economics and served as a big brother for Rutgers Community Action. Continuing his athletic career as a linebacker and defensive captain of the 1972 RU football team, he also competed in wrestling, lacrosse, and rugby. Andy was also a valued brother in the Delta Upsilon fraternity while at Rutgers.

After graduating, he applied to VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) and was accepted to serve in Grand Island, Nebraska, a low-income Mexican American community. He received his Master of Social Work (MSW) at Adelphi University in 1978, where he also interned at the North Shore Child and

Family Guidance Center.

For almost forty years, Andrew Malekoff, MSW, LCSW, CASAC, served the clients of the North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center, the leading children’s mental health agency on Long Island. He worked tirelessly for children suffering from depression, anxiety, abuse, bullying, suicidal ideation, drug addiction, and other crises. A hands-on activist, Malekoff often testified at county and state legislative hearings, bringing the need for support for mental health organizations to the attention of government leaders. Malekoff received numerous awards and accolades for his leadership in human services, including the NY State Social Work Education Association Social Work Practitioner of the Year award.

A prolific writer and editor, Andrew Malekoff served as an adjunct professor at Adelphi and New York University’s Schools of Social Work and on the board of the International Association for Social Work with Groups.

For over 25 years, he led Social Work with Groups: A Journal of Community and Clinical Practice as Editor-in-Chief. His acclaimed book, Group Work with

Adolescents: Principles and Practice, remains a top choice for the Behavioral Science Book Club, now in its 3rd edition.

Beyond academia, Malekoff was a fixture in public discourse. He penned hundreds of opinion pieces and letters for prestigious publications like The New York Times, Washington Post, Albany Times Union, Newsday, and Blank Slate Media. His impactful writing garnered recognition, including the David Award, the NY Press Association Journalism Award, and the Blank Slate Media Folio Award.

Andrew was known for a remarkable blend of qualities: humility, patience, intellect, empathy, and a passion for political activism. He had a relentless appetite for cutting jokes and merciless humor but was happiest navigating the Long Beach boardwalk in the early morning. He is survived by his wife, Dale, a former high school art teacher; his two sons, Jamie and Darren; his daughter-in-law, Annalisa; his brother, Robert; and his sister-in-law, Lisa. Andy passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in his final days. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Andrew Malekoff 1951–2024

Suozzi backs House vote on Ukraine

Expresses support for Speaker Johnson’s plan to break impasse with separate vote on aid

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Rep. Tom Suozzi (NY-03) is calling for Democrats to back Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana amid bipartisan divisions in the House of Representatives to ensure aid to Ukraine is delivered.

“Democrats must offer Speaker Johnson our votes to save democracy in Ukraine and here,” Suozzi wrote in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal. “We can’t let our partisan instincts get in our way. We must work with Republicans to disarm Mr. Putin’s puppet, get a vote to support Ukraine, and defeat Russian disinformation. Our democracy is at stake.”

Suozzi, a Democrat representing New York’s Third Congressional District, has continuously advocated for working across party lines to achieve compromise and this advocacy was a cornerstone of his successful campaign to be elected to his seat in the House this February.

Days after he met with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, Suozzi’s op-ed called for partisanship to be set aside so aid can be delivered to Ukraine, which is facing insufficiencies in ammunition. He said this is how Russian President Vladimir Putin can be defeated.

Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03), joined by a bipartisan group of congressional members, met with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky during his trip last week to Eastern Europe.

Suozzi advised his colleagues to listen to government officials and follow in the footsteps of the Senate to pass an aid bill for Ukraine. He said

this can’t wait for Republicans to begin working with Democrats.

Since the war broke out in February 2022, the United States has sent

about $74 billion in aid to Ukraine.

But this has stalled in 2024.

The Senate passed a bipartisan $95 billion aid package in Febru-

ONLINE REAL ESTATE AUCTION

ary that would deliver $60 billion to Ukraine as well as $14 billion to Israel, but this has not been carried out as Johnson has blocked the aid package from facing a vote on the House floor.

The bill’s aid to Ukraine has faced the strongest opposition from far-right Republicans, many of whom align with former President Donald Trump, including Speaker Johnson.

With the weekend’s missile and drone attacks launched by Iran against Israel, the House has been under increased pressure to act on the aid bill.

Johnson is expected to respond to Biden’s requests to deliver aid to Ukraine this week, along with aid for Israel and the Indo-Pacific.

Far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene last week criticized the House speaker for failing to deliver on promises and said she would not tolerate his anticipated plan to push for more aid to Ukraine. Her disapproval includes threats to call for his removal as speaker via a single vote, yet she did not indicate if or when this could occur.

In the wake of Greene’s warnings tooust House Speaker Johnson, Suozzi has announced his support of the Republican speaker as long as he does his job, Suozzi said.

Continued on Page 48

PHOTO COURTESY OF CONGRESSMAN TOM SUOZZI

The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating customized social activities that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. And, in the process, create the one-of-a-kind community we are, too.

See for yourself. Explore all of our locations in the tri-state area. thebristal.com

Bond with Japanese prime minister

Ex-culture center director in Roslyn now living in Flushing a guest of Suozzi at speech to Congress

Sport Psychology

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

Williston Park Professional Center 2 Hillside Ave, Suite E. Williston Park NY 11596 (building parallel to E. Williston railroad station) drtomferraro.com drtferraro@aol.com (516) 248-7189

BY CAMERYN OAKES

Flushing’s Geoffrey Shibahara began his career as a Japanese language instructor at the Long Island Japanese Culture Center in Roslyn Heights where he was credited with advancing the cultural center.

Shibahara joined Rep. Tom Suozzi (NY-03) as his guest for last Thursday’s address to Congress by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, where he found commonality with the Asian leader who spoke of his time living in Queens as well.

Kishida moved to Queens in the early 1960s after his father was appointed to a post in New York as a government trade official. At 6 years old, he attended Queen’s P.S. 13.

He shared fond memories with Congress from his time spent in Queens, which included American classics of eating hot dogs at Coney Island and cheering for the Mets and Yankees.

“After 60 years, I have a message for the good people of Queens. Thank you for making my family and me feel so welcome. I have never forgotten it,” Kishida said. Shibahara lives in Flushing but

was raised in Nassau County. His career path was inspired by his passion for the Japanese language and culture, which began at the Roslyn Heights center as a Japanese language instructor.

He currently serves as a treasury relationship manager and sales associate at Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group.

When Kishida gave his address to a joint session of Congress last week, he was only the second Japanese prime minister to do so.

“As global threats continue to endanger peace and prosperity, the relationship between the U.S. and Japan is as important as ever. The U.S.-Japan relationship is built on the strength of decades of cooperation and has proven to be a force for good,” Suozzi said. “Prime Minister Kishida gave a warm, funny, visionary speech with a firm commitment to our alliance.”

The prime minister’s address touched on the uncertainty of America’s role in the global world, saying he detected self-doubt among the people about what their future role looks like.

“I want to address those Americans who feel the loneliness and exhaustion of being the country

that has upheld the international order,” Kishida said. “The leadership of the United States is indispensable.

“Without U.S. support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow? Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?”

The prime minister offered support and confidence in the United States, reminding Congress of its history of global impact since World War II. In tandem with America’s ability is Japan’s support, Kishida said, as his nation too supports global security and human rights.

“Ladies and gentlemen, as the United States’ closest friend, tomodachi, the people of Japan are with you, side by side, to assure the survival of liberty,” Kishida said. “Not just for our people, but for all people.”

The address came at a turning point in history, Kishida said, which he attributed to threats against freedom and democracy globally. This includes threats from China, North Korea and Russia.

OUR VIEWS

Rally’s message: Don’t building housing here

Continued from Page 14

Hochul proposed $34.75 billion in state aid for 2024-2025 – a 2.43% increase over last year.

The decline in state funds for some districts is based on changes in how foundation aid – money intended to aid less affluent districts – is distributed.

For the first time, the state is taking into account declines in enrollment. Hochul had also sought to eliminate a policy of not cutting aid to any district regardless of declining need or population. But that provision was reportedly dropped in the face of heated opposition on Long Island officials.

There is another explanation for the timing of the rally: politics.

Trailing Joe Biden badly in the suburbs during the 2020 presidential election, then-President Donald Trump announced a change in federal housing rules that would hurt blacks and other low-income people.

“I am happy to inform all the people

living their Suburban Lifestyle Dream that you will no longer be bothered or financially hurt by having low-income housing built in your neighborhood,” tweeted Trump, who is now the Republican Party’s presumptive presidential nominee. “Your housing prices will go up based on the market, and crime will go down. I have rescinded the ObamaBiden AFFH Rule. Enjoy!!”

Trump was referring to a change in fair-housing rules made during the Obama administration that required localities which received federal housing funding to address any biased practices that concentrated low-income housing in small geographic areas.

The then-president did not win the suburban women’s vote in 2020.

But DeSena and her colleagues did win re-election as town supervisors this year after opposing state housing proposals.

We would hate to think that last week’s rally was part of political campaigning in 2020. But it’s tough not to.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF TOM SUOZZI

Rep. Tom Suozzi (NY-03) and Queens resident Geoffrey Shibahara.

Lady Supreme: A Diana Ross Experience is a spectacular tribute to the life and work of the Supreme Diva on Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Elmont Memorial Library Theatre at 700 Hempstead Turnpike in Elmont.

Accompanied by top-notch singers and musicians, Deanna Carroll covers the hits of the Supremes to Diana’s solo sensations with spot-on vocals.

She performs all of Diana’s biggest hits, including “Endless Love,” “Someday We’ll Be Together,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Touch Me in The Morning,” “Do You Know Where You’re Going To?,” “I’m Coming Out and so many more!”

Tickets: Regular Tickets: $40.00 (plus processing fee). Senior Tickets: $35.00 (plus processing fee); Group Tickets: $30.00 (plus processing fee) Purchase Tickets online at PlazaTheatrical.com. Call the Box Office: (516) 599-6870.

Performance at Elmont Memorial Library Theatre on May 2

Temple Isaiah hosts talk on POP ART CYNICS

Temple Isaiah of Great Neck will be hosting a lecture titled “POP ART CYNICS: Rivers, Lichtenstein & Segal” on April 28 at 2:00 p.m.

The lecture, part of Temple Isaiah’s continuing series about Jewish artists and their role in the art world, will be presented by Dennis Raverty, award-winning teacher, author and art historian.

with lively presentations at libraries, churches, synagogues, hostels and business lunches on a variety of topics in the history of art, from the Italian Renaissance to the Harlem Renaissance.

Raverty recently retired from his role as an Associate Professor at New Jersey City University where he taught 19th and 20th-century art history, the art of West Africa, the diaspora and African American art, as well as the Renaissance and Baroque periods in Europe.

Secular Jewish artists figured prominently in Pop Art during the 1960s. The lecture will take a critical look at some of the most prominent artists associated with Pop Art in the 1960s, and how they critiqued the visual language of advertising and promotion as well as the values associated with consumerist culture at midcentury.

This was expressed with a sardonic sense of humor labeled “camp”, which according to one definition is “A banality so extreme as to have a perversely sophisticated appeal” – in other words, it’s so bad, that it’s good.

For decades Raverty has delighted audiences

Raverty lives in New York City and is currently co-authoring a book on American illustration with Dennis Dittrich, former president of the Society of Illustrators.

Temple Isaiah is located at One Chelsea Place, off Cutter Mill Road, and is a member congregation of the Union for Reform Judaism.

For additional information about this or any other program, please call the Temple office at 516–487-5373 or e-mail at isaiahgn@yahoo. com. The suggested contribution is $15 and light refreshments will be served.

Music and Lyrics

by Irving Berlin

Orchestrations by Larry Moore

Book by Herbert & Dorothy Fields

Stone

Art Guild announces results of art competition

On Sunday, Feb. 7, The Art Guild of 200 Port Washington Blvd. held a juried art competition and exhibition reception “Go Figure”.

Whether inspired by models, real-life situations, or imaginative realms, we sought artworks that conveyed the intricate interplay between beauty, strength, and vulnerability inherent in the human body.

All mediums were welcome, including drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

Of the hundreds of pieces of art that were submitted, less than half were accepted.

In first place was “On A Journey” by Steven Silberstein. Second place went to “Until” by Lorraine Miller. Third place went to “Broken Promises” by Veronica Schliemann. Honorable Mentions were “Moon Over 5th Ave” by Kathleen Gerlach,

“Rest” by Baruch May, “Figures” by Tessa McCain.

The Art Guild thanked all the artists who submitted their work, along with those who attended the “Go Figure” reception and awards ceremony. The gallery is open to view weekends from 1 pm-4 pm.

The Art Guild also thanked the Juror of the Awards, Costa Vavagiakis who presented the awards.

Our next juried competition and exhibition is “Power of Nature”. We’re asking artists to capture the essence of nature’s majesty in their chosen medium- whether it be painting, sculpture, mixed media, or beyond (photography not included).

The exhibition reception will be held Thursday, May 16, 6 pm-8 pm, and will be juried by Frederic Mendelsohn.

Activities and fun for every age!

Maypole and Fairy Dance! Music, Music, Music! Aerialists

Rainbow Bubble Fun

Mermaid Cove

Face Painting Crafts and Art Experiences

Costume Contest

Woodland Circus Skills

Fairy Art Gallery and Invitational

Fairy and Troll sightings

UPCOMING SPRING EVENTS

Monthly Meditation

Thursday, May 2 • 6 – 7 pm

Thursday, June 6 • 7 – 8 pm

Forest Bathing

May 11 • 10 am – 12 pm Friday, June 14 • 6 – 7:30 pm

Family Forest Bathing

Wednesday, April 24 • 10:30 am – 12 pm

Four Seasons in Music: A tour de France Sunday, May 19 • 5 – 7 pm

Evening Bat Walk Friday, May 31 • 7:30 – 9 pm

Spring Gardening Old-fashioned Outdoor Games

Photo-ops

Merchant Marketplace for Shopping Food Trucks

And many other surprises!

For more information visit our website or scan the QR code below.

Guided Nature Walk: Search for Spring Saturday, June 1 • 10 am – 12 pm

Northwinds Symphonic Band Concert Sunday, June 9 • 3 pm

Wilderness Survival Series: Foraging for Food and Medicine Saturday, June 15 • 10 am – 12 pm

Come for a picnic, play in the Woodland Playground, ride the Sands Point Preserve Express train, walk you dog, and enjoy four different ecosystems across our spectacular park and preserve!

Visit: www.sandspointpreserve.org

Spring. Renewed hope and expectant joy

BY WENDY TRUNZ

The beauty of spring brings feelings of renewed hope, energy and excitement. It’s a time to believe again in new beginnings and see growth. It’s a time when the days stay brighter for a longer amount of time, the fresh air smells sweeter, nature’s beauty is bursting forth outside, and an expectant joy is bursting from within us.

As the days get brighter, we all want to feel lighter.

After a long winter, those first signs of crocuses and daffodils blooming brings a smile and a hopeful filling of the soul. Anticipation builds each day as we continue to see the magnificent blooming of cherry blossoms, magnolia trees, bright yellow forsythia, hot pink azalea bushes and so many colors radiating from flowers everywhere.

The colors get bolder, the sun shines brighter, the birds sing louder, the sky seems bluer, and as nature bursts forth… people and families seem to burst out of their homes to play, walk, ride bikes, and look to gather more and more together.

The beauty, awe and majesty of spring each year is a result of all the seeds that were planted, sown and scattered months and even years before. Seeds that took root, weathered the storms and continued to multiply.

We plant seeds with the expectation of seeing and enjoying beautiful growth, as well as reaping a harvest.

The seeds we plant every single day, inside or outside produce a growing, thriving harvest if we tend to them…not only the seeds planted in the ground, but more importantly the seeds planted in hearts and minds, in our everyday habits, in our lives, relationships, and in our homes.

Where is the area of growth that you would like to see bloom in your life this year.. or in the years to come? Are you planting those seeds yet, or are they still sitting in the seed packet? Do you need a fresh packet of seeds with a few ideas to lighten and brighten your life and your home this spring? As the world feels lighter and brighter outside, it’s the perfect time to make your home lighter and brighter inside.

Here’s a little “ Lighter and Brighter Seeds” packet that you can open and scatter into the various areas of your life and home. (Caution: These little seeds of wisdom, once scattered, just may take root, multiply, and become ever blooming!)…

5 Ways to Feel Lighter as the days get Brighter

1. Lighter clothing and closets

*Coat Closet/Mudroom- Go through all coats, wash or send to dry cleaners. All outgrown or unwanted coats place in bag for donation.

*Match all gloves, hats and scarves and place in basket or bins per family member. All ready and organized for next season. Donate all unwanted items

*Swap out your fall and winter clothes for spring and summer clothes

*Put all boots away and take out your sandals and flip-flops!

2. Lighter pantry and refrigerator

*Pull out all food from pantries, drawers and refrigerator. Check all expiration dates and discard as needed.

*Donate fresh unwanted food to a food pantry or a friend in need

*Defrost your freezer as needed and wipe out

*Wipe out all shelves and drawers. Freshen up with new drawer liners if needed

*Fill your kitchen with all the fruit and veggies now in season.

*Eating lighter and brighter foods fuel you to feel lighter and brighter

3. Brighter decor

*Swap out heavy fabrics and colors- lighten up your bedding. Put away flannel and fleece blankets. Replace with light and bright bedding

*Swap out heavy pillows and draperies and replace with lighter textures

*Use delicious bright fruits or lemons in a gorgeous bowl as a centerpiece

4. Brighter Lighting

*String lights around your backyard or porch or throughout your sunroom or even in bedrooms

*Set up fire pit to gather outside with friends and family

*Light citrus or floral candles throughout your home or use remote control artificial lighting/candles

*Light up an essential oil machine and let the beautiful aroma fill your home and soul.

5. Lighter and brighter home

*Clean your windows, vacuum your screens, open the windows and let the fresh air inside!

*Pull the shades all the way up so the sun streams in

*Bring in nature from outside- cut flowers, branches, pussy willows, daffodils, tulips, hydrangeas, sea glass, shells and beautiful stones and rocks. Make arrangements for your home, and drop off some brightening the homes and lives of others.

These are just a few of our favorite seeds to plant into your heart and mind, to scatter into the areas you need help with…to lighten and brighten your home and life for this spring season. Remember that planting, growing, sowing and reaping happen all year long. There is always growth happening, even when we can’t see it.

So in this spring time of renewed hope, growth and expectant joy…enjoy the abundant beauty growing from all the seeds previously sown, by you or by others… continue planting the little seeds in the areas of your life where you would love to see even more growth. Remember, the seeds you plant and tend to, are the seeds that grow.

Plant seeds of love, joy, faith, hope and patience…and that’s what grows. Plant and tend to seeds of healthy living…and that is what you will produce. Plant and tend to those little habits that will grow into a meaningful, abundant lifestyle in your home and with all of your loved ones.

It’s the little things that nobody sees, that leads to the big things everybody wants. Just keep doing, planting and tending to the little, yet most important things.

Those seeds will all multiply, and you will eventually see growth. And the beauty, like spring, that bursts forth and blossoms at the perfect time, will continue to take your breath away… and leave you in complete awe.

From the North Fork Vineyards to the Sands Point Preserve, let Julie’s experience and expertise guide you through one of the most important decisions of your life. Integrity

Let Julie’s attention to detail, analytical nature, energy, and spirit provide you with a unique agent experience. Whether your next move includes selling your current home or buying the home of your dreams, Julie effectively liaises with her sellers and buyers alike to ensure their satisfaction and gets the deal done.

Selling a luxury home in today’s landscape

BY GWEN LEVY

As a successful luxury realtor in Long Island, I’ve witnessed a remarkable evolution in the process of selling high-end properties.

The landscape of selling luxury homes today is vastly different from what it has ever been, presenting both challenges and opportunities for sellers.

Understanding these differences is crucial for navigating the contemporary luxury real estate market and achieving optimal results.

1. Evolving Buyer Preferences: One of the most significant shifts in selling luxury homes today is the evolution of buyer preferences. Modern luxury homebuyers are seeking more than just opulence and grandeur; they are placing increasing importance on factors such as sustainability, wellness features, and smart home technology.

Sellers must adapt to these changing preferences by highlighting eco-friendly elements, wellness amenities, and advanced home automation systems to attract discerning buyers in today’s market.

2. Digital Transformation and Virtual Experiences: The advent of digital transformation has revolutionized the way luxury homes are presented and experienced by potential buyers. High-quality virtual tours, immersive 3Dwalkthroughs and drone photography have become indispensable tools for showcasing luxury properties in an engaging and accessible manner.

Sellers are now able to offer virtual experiences that provide a comprehensive view of the property, allowing prospective buyers to

explore every detail from the comfort of their own homes. This shift towards digital presentation has redefined the selling process, making it more dynamic and inclusive than ever before.

3. Market Transparency and Information Accessibility: The accessibility of real estate information and market transparency has had a profound impact on the selling process. Today’s luxury home sellers are navigating a landscape where buyers are more informed and empowered than ever.

With a wealth of online resources and real-time market data at their fingertips, buyers

are approaching luxury home purchases with a higher level of knowledge and scrutiny. As a result, sellers and their agents must be prepared to engage with well-informed buyers and provide comprehensive, accurate information about their properties to meet these heightened expectations.

4. Emphasis on Lifestyle and Experiential Marketing: Selling luxury homes today goes beyond showcasing the physical attributes of the property; it involves curating an immersive lifestyle experience for potential buyers. Lifestyle and experiential marketing have become inte-

gral to the selling process, with an emphasis on highlighting the unique lifestyle that a luxury property affords.

From curated virtual events and exclusive experiences to bespoke storytelling that captures the essence of the home, sellers are now leveraging experiential marketing to create an emotional connection with buyers and differentiate their properties in a competitive market.

5. Shifting Market Dynamics and Pricing Strategies: The dynamics of the luxury real estate market have undergone notable shifts, influencing pricing strategies and negotiation dynamics. Economic fluctuations, demographic changes, and global events have all contributed to a more dynamic and nuanced market environment.

While we have seen a vastly reduced amount of inventory, well informed buyers will not be taken advantage of. As a result, sellers must adapt their pricing strategies to align with current market conditions to secure the best possible financial outcome for their properties.

The process of selling luxury homes today is marked by a series of transformative changes that have redefined the landscape of luxury real estate.

From evolving buyer preferences and digital transformation to market transparency and lifestyle marketing, sellers are navigating a dynamic and multifaceted environment.

By understanding and embracing these changes, luxury home sellers can leverage the unique opportunities presented by today’s market to achieve successful outcomes and elevate the selling experience for both sellers and buyers in Long Island’s luxury real estate market.

Blank Slate

5 luxury features buyers desire

Senior Sellers Specialist, Why Choose Me?

Specialized Support:

As a seller’s agent, I specialize in assisting seniors through the entire home selling process, providing personalized attention and guidance every step of the way.

Compassionate Approach:

I understand that moving can be an emotional experience, and I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and understanding approach tailored to the unique needs of seniors.

Hand-Holding from Start to Finish:

I offer hands-on support, from preparing the home for listing to navigating the closing process, ensuring that my senior clients feel supported and informed at all times.

Customized Selling Strategy:

I work closely with senior clients to develop a tailored selling strategy that takes into account their specific goals, timelines, and preferences.

The real estate market has been something of a roller coaster ride over the past few years. Historically low interest rates coupled with a surging interest to move to communities with more outdoor space during the height of the pandemic led to a lot of movement and inven tory — as well as some of the highest home prices in some time.

The tides have started to change in recent months, as the housing market has been tepid at best since interest rates have increased. In the week ending August 24, 2023, the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate pushed to 7.23 percent, while the National Association of Realtors said the median existing-home sales price was expected to surpass the all-time high of $413,800. The stagnation of the market is caused by high interest rates, sellers not want ing to budge on prices, individuals wanting to sell but not being able to afford other homes, and a general decline in inventory related to each of these factors.

fixed mortgage rate pushed to 7.23 percent, while the National Association of Realtors said the median existing-home sales price was expected to surpass the all-time high of $413,800. The stagnation of the market is caused by high interest rates, sellers not wanting to budge on prices, individuals wanting to sell but not being able to afford other homes, and a general decline in inventory related to each of these factors

2. Modern open floor plans: Even though there has been some shift to buyers wanting homes with delineated borders, most still are drawn to those with open concepts. Those who are selling may want to investigate where they can open up rooms or take down walls to

A luxury indoor kitchen is still a major draw for buyers, but increasingly people are seeking properties that also maximize outdoor entertaining spaces. Having an outdoor kitchen with built-in grill, sink, counters for food preparation, and a refrigerator or wine chiller may be coveted. When an outdoor kitchen is near amenities like a spa, grand patio, pool, and other outdoor living spaces, the home really will beckon buyers.

Individuals who are in position to buy right now may be more selective in what they are seeking in homes, particularly if they’re spending top dollar. Current homeowners planning to put their homes on the market may want to consider these five luxury renovations to set their properties apart.

The real estate market has been something of a roller coaster ride over the past few years.

The real estate market has been something of a roller coaster ride over the past few years

Access to Senior-Friendly Resources:

I have a network of professionals who can assist with downsizing, estate planning, and other services designed to meet the needs of senior citizens.

Proven Track Record:

With a successful history of helping senior clients achieve their selling goals, I am committed to delivering exceptional results and a stress-free experience.

Individuals who are in position to buy right now may be more selective in what they are seeking in homes, particularly if they’re spending top dollar. Current homeowners planning to put their homes on the market may want to consider these five luxury renovations to set their properties apart.

Historically low interest rates coupled with a surging interest to move to communities with more outdoor space during the height of the pandemic led to a lot of movement and inventory as well as some of the highest home prices in some time

1. Smart home features: It’s now common for new home builders to include smart home technology when building. Advanced home tech, like facial recognition for doors, intuitive home assistants, smart lights and outlets to control appliances from a smartphone app, and similar offerings can make a home more attractive.

Historically low interest rates coupled with a surging interest to move to communities with more outdoor space during the height of the pandemic led to a lot of movement and inventory as well as some of the highest home prices in some time.

1. Smart home features: It’s now common for new home builders to include smart home technology when building Advanced home tech, like facial recognition for doors, intuitive home assistants, smart lights and outlets to control appliances from a smartphone app, and similar offerings can make a home more attractive.

Empowering Seniors:

The tides have started to change in recent months, as the housing market has been tepid at best since interest rates have increased In the week ending August 24, 2023, the national average 30-year

My goal is to empower seniors to make informed decisions about their next real estate move, providing the expertise and support they deserve.

Shelley Scotto, SRES

Founding Agent of Compass North Shore Licensed Associate RE Broker shelley.scotto@compass.com shelleyscotto.com

M: 516.816.7428 | O: 516.517.4751

Ranked top 1.5% of agents Nationwide.* 1468 Northern Blvd, Manhasset, NY 11030

3. Outdoo still a majo people are outdoor en kitchen wi preparation be coveted amenities l other outdo beckon buy

4. Saltwater pools: Pools have both pros and cons at resale. Therefore, sellers should speak with a realtor before installing a pool simply to make a home more appealing. However, if there already is a pool, converting the set-up to a saltwater system may win over buyers. Saltwater systems rely on fewer chemicals and proponents say the water feels more silky and less irritating.

5. Upgraded owner’s suite: An owner’s suite complete with luxury spa bath, walk-in closet with built-in storage, sitting area, and potentially access to an outdoor space will win raves with buyers.

2. Modern open floor plans: Even though there has been some shift to buyers wanting homes with delineated borders, most still are drawn to those with open concepts Those who are selling may want to investigate where they can open up rooms or take down walls to recreate these features.

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The tides have started to change in recent months, as the housing market has been tepid at best since interest rates have increased. In the week ending August 24, 2023, the national average 30-year fixed mortga the National A median existi surpass the al stagnation of rates, sellers individuals w afford other h inventory rel Individuals w may be more homes, partic Current home on the marke luxury renov

5. Upgrad complete w built-in sto to an outdo Selling a h but luxury sellers’ fav

Shelley Scotto is a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker affiliated with Compass. Compass is a Licensed Real Estate Broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity Laws. *Data per Real Trends America’s Best 2023 Rankings.

Owner’s suite renovation ideas for luxury spaces

An owner ’s suite is a sanctuary for homeowners

It’s a place where adults can retreat, relax and unwind after a busy day It’s expected that a bed and some other furniture will take up residence in a standard bedroom, but certain elements can help homeowners create stunning spaces

While the largest bedroom in the home typically is dubbed the “owner ’s suite,” it cannot be classified as a suite unless there is an adjoining bathroom. An owner ’s suite also may have many more unique features that individuals may want to incorporate into a remodel Here are some ideas to consider.

Upgraded closet

Those who will be overhauling the walls and layout of the bedroom can configure the space to make room for a serious closet overhaul A spacious, walk-in closet that has built-in shelves, drawers and rods can improve the functionality of the bedroom. Draw dividers and other components also can optimize space

Sitting area

In large suites, homeowners may have the potential to set up a sitting area in one portion of the room away from the bed. This area can have a sofa, chairs, chaise, or other furniture and make for an ideal spot to read and lounge Some people also enjoy having a television adjacent to the sitting area so they can watch a show in the privacy of the bedroom.

Fireplace

Fireplaces add a unique ambiance to bedrooms and make for cozy spaces in which to cuddle up While a traditional, roaring wood fire is one option, there is much less mess and fuss with a gas fireplace Some gas fireplaces may not even have to be vented, and they can be turned on with the flip of a switch.

Private patio or balcony

Owners who want to go the extra mile in owner ’s suite renovations can incorporate outdoor spaces into the plans Many homes are now being built with owner ’s suites on the first floor, facilitating the possibility of aging in place at home

With this layout, the bedroom can be opened up to the outdoors by way of a sliding door or French doors

Decking or a patio can be outside of the room, or even a covered space similar to a Florida room Those with second-floor suites may want to consider a small deck or balcony where bistro seating can be placed.

Luxury bath

Owners can turn the en suite bathroom into something out of a spa A steam shower; heated floors; separate area for the toilet, closed off from the rest of the bathroom; and dual vanities and sinks can make this a place that screams

luxury and comfort. Do not forget dimmer switches for lighting, and even the inclusion of some new aromatherapy technology for increasing the potential for relaxation

Many different features can improve the functionality and luxury of an owner ’s suite

Plan a spa bathroom remodel

MIncorporate natural materials

Plan a spa bathroom remodel

When decorating the space, use natural materials like stone, wood and marble rather than plastic or metal This can add to the luxury appeal

Install a rainfall shower head q y

Any space is made more welcoming and classy with the addition of some artistic touches. Hang pictures that will create a relaxing atmosphere, such as floral prints or beachscapes

Many health and wellness regimens include treatments that promote relaxation and comfort According to IBIS Worldwide, revenue for health and wellness spas across the United States has risen at a rate of 1 1 percent over the past five years, reaching $23 3 billion in 2023 The International Spa Association said and evoke feelings of purity This can be achieved by choosing white, off-white or pale gray in the color scheme An all-white design for fixtures and tiles also makes it easy to swap out accessories when the mood strikes

Integrating large prints or a gallery wall can add a different dimension to the bathroom

Change the color scheme

Spas are typically bright and clean and evoke feelings of purity. This can be achieved by choosing white, off-white or pale gray in the color scheme. An all-white design for fixtures and tiles also makes it easy to swap out accessories when the mood strikes.

any health and wellness regimens include treatments that promote relaxation and comfort According to IBIS Worldwide, revenue for health and wellness spas across the United States has risen at a rate of 1 1 percent over the past five years, reaching $23.3 billion in 2023. The International Spa Association said that while spa visits fell in 2020, likely due to the global pandemic, visits rebounded a year later The popularity of spa visits is one indicator that people enjoy being pampered and frequently make time for treatments. While visiting a spa is d h

When stepping out of the shower or the bath, individuals can wrap themselves in thick, luxurious towels or robes Guests also will appreciate comfortable towels if they come to visit

Incorporate natural materials

Certain features can transform home bathrooms into spa-like retreats with a few touches

deep, spa-like tub Soaking away the stresses of the day, lounging in the tub with a good book and listening to music while enjoying a bubble bath are all ways to slow down and eke out a bit more quiet, personal time to unwind Tubs can be outfitted with waterfall features to add to the ambiance even further

Invest in quality linens

When decorating the space, us natural materials like stone, wo and marble rather than plastic metal This can add to the luxu appeal.

Install a rainfall shower head

When stepping out of the shower or the bath, individuals can wrap themselves in thick, luxurious towels or robes. Guests also will appreciate comfortable towels if they come to visit

Certain features can transform home bathrooms into spa-like retreats with a few touches

Upgrade fixtures to make them luxurious Multi-head shower fixtures and rainfall shower he can help anyone unwind and re Rain showers can evoke calmn and relaxation as they gently c down. Additional shower upgr

Perhaps due to changing weather patterns that have made Mother Nature as unpredictable as ever, Florida rooms are wildly popular These rooms, sometimes referred to as “sunrooms,” enable a home’s inhabitants to take in the beauty of nature even on those days when the weather outside is less than welcoming. The cost of a sunroom addition varies greatly and is affected by a host of variables, including the existing structure and whether or not homeowners aspire to utilize the room year-round or during the three seasons when temperatures are at their most moderate According to HomeGuide, the cost to install an 8 x 10 three-season Florida room averages between $6,000 and $18,500. The same size room built to be enjoyed year-round can cost between $16,000 and $28,000. Homeowners may choose to create larger Florida rooms, but the cost will increase with each square foot added to the project Such costs are considerable, but homeowners should know that adding square footage to a home typically increases the home’s resale value, meaning it’s likely they can recoup a considerable percentage of their Florida room investment when selling their home

Reap the rewards of a Florida room in your home

When the sun is shining and the weather is warm, who doesn’t want to be outside enjoying all Mother Nature has to offer? The great outdoors often beckons, but it also has bugs. Insects, particularly nuisance bugs like mosquitoes or biting flies, are unwanted visitors when enjoying the great outdoors.

have one. Consider your climate and build a Florida room that will meet your needs Do you want to enjoy the space year-round? If so, you might need some sort of heating or cooling to keep things comfortable.

• Decide on the right location

PWeather also can put a damper on outdoor plans It’s challenging to get fresh air and enjoy the yard when it’s raining or conditions are especially humid Instead of limiting time spent outdoors to those occasions when conditions are favorable, homeowners can install Florida rooms to maximize their outdoor living potential

The term “Florida room” calls to mind different things. Some define it as a walled extension of a home that features a roof such as a covered patio, or lanai According to Tripod Aluminum, Inc , a manufacturer of aluminum building products, a Florida room also may be a screened-in enclosure that surrounds a pool area and is designed to keep bugs and wildlife out of the water People also may consider a Florida room a sunroom, and it may be screened or feature actual windows that can be opened, according to the resource from Farmhouse to Florida Those thinking about renovating to include Florida rooms can consider the following details

• You don’t need to live in Florida. Florida rooms may be most associated with the Sunshine State, but you don’t need to live there to

While Florida rooms traditionally are in the backyard, select a spot that works for you If you want to maximize morning sunrises, for example, locate the room on the side of the home that faces east. If a view from another side of the house is particularly striking, place the Florida room there

• Determine your needs. Will you be cooking or entertaining in the Florida room? If so, design a space that will feature cooking and eating areas. Ensure plenty of ventilation for a grill, and consider other appliances to reduce the need to make trips into the house Although the Florida room creates some measure of weather protection, choose furniture and fixtures that can stand up to outdoor conditions

• Add privacy as needed. Curtains, greenery, shades, and other details can create privacy when you don’t want to be visible to neighbors

Florida rooms add useful space to a home and can help residents connect with nature even when conditions outside are less inviting

made unpred Florid popula somet as “su enable inhabi beauty those sunroo includ utilize are at 8 x 10 The sa $16,00 rooms

If you’re curious about the value of your home in today’s fast-moving market, please reach out for a complimentary current market analysis.

M: 516.967.8080 | O: 516.517.4751 1468 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset, NY 11030 Serving the surrounding areas, I’m ready to help you explore potential opportunities in nearby neighborhoods. Feel free to contact me today, and let’s start the conversation!

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty offers cutting edge tools, unmatched support, infrastructure, guidance, and training. There is a true sense of family, and everyone works together to help elevate my business.

Damian's diverse background in real estate along with his commitment to community service, makes him an ideal addition to our Daniel Gale family. His unique perspective and attention to detail will be invaluable for serving his clients.

Damian Ross

Associate Real Estate Broker

Sterling Circle of Accomplishment

c.516.369.5868

damianross@danielgale.com

Are you thinking about selling your home?

There are positive signals indicating a stronger housing market in 2024.

Are you ready to embrace this opportunity in the upcoming year?

Reach out today and start exploring the possibilities that lie ahead!

Don’t miss your opportunity to submit your nominations for the Top Business Leaders 2024.

Blank Slate Media is recognizing the most influential and accomplished individuals in business, finance, education, law, not-for-profit, and media who continue to find ways to lead and inspire.

To nominate, or to find out details on how to be a corporate sponsor visit www.theisland360.com/nassau-countys-top-business-leaders

Fri 4/19

Otan Vargas

@ 7:30pm

Twisted Cow Distillery, 13 He‐witt Square, East Northport

Joey Montana

@ 9pm Blue Moon Cafe, 107 North Franklin Street, Hempstead

Sat 4/20

Shred Day - Nassau

Financial FCU

@ 9:30am

Join us for Shred Day! 2575 Hempstead Tpke, 2575 Hempstead Turn‐pike, East Meadow. eal erts@nassau�nan cial.org

Spring Dog Festival! @ 10am / $15

Bring your dog(s) for an invigorating walk through designated garden areas! Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury. mramirez @oldwestburygar dens.org, 516-333-0048

Hofstra Law to Host Free Veterans Legal Clinic on April 20 @ 10am

Hofstra Law will host a free one-day legal as‐sistance clinic for vet‐erans on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The clinic is open to all veterans.

Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofs‐tra University, 121 Hof‐stra University, Hemp‐stead. VLAP@hofs tra.edu, 516-463-7302

The Rock and Roll Play‐house Plays The Music of Taylor Swift for kids! @ 11am / $17 Mulcahy's, Wantagh

Chris Milo Live at My Father’s Place, Roslyn Hotel @ 6pm My Father's Place at The Roslyn Hotel -, NY, 1221 Old Northern Blvd, Roslyn

New York Riptide vs. Albany Firewolves @ 7:30pm / $24-$42 Nassau Veterans Memorial Col‐iseum, Uniondale

Domingo Quiñones @ 8pm NYCB Theatre At Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd, Westbury

Art & Music in Motion

@ 2pm

Featuring new dance works in collaboration with visual artists and vocalists. Premiering is "Subway Windows" a dance journey into the minds of subway riders. Elmont Public Library, 700 Hempstead Turn‐pike, Elmont. dancevi sions.ny@gmail.com, 516-314-2359

Sun 4/21

Dog Friendly Day!

@ 10am / $15

Bring your dog(s) for an invigorating walk through designated garden areas. Dogs must be leashed. In‐cluded with admission. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury. mramirez@oldwestbury gardens.org, 516-3330048

Brighten Up Your Day with Spring Ceramics!

@ 1pm

Spring is here. What better way to celebrate than with a fun and col‐orful project? Gold Coast Arts Center, 113 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck. info@gold coastarts.org, 516-8292570

Category3: DOX in Island Park @ 2pm Dox, 10 Broadway, Island Park

Chris Devine Acoustic: Chris Devine Live at Tres Palms @ 4pm Tres Palms, 16 East Ct, Babylon

Mon 4/22

TGA Golf, Tennis and Pickleball Spring Break Camp, April 22-26 @ 9am

Apr 22nd - Apr 26th

Come Play with TGA. We make it easy and fun to learn & play! Join us for a variety of week-long spring & summer sessions where students will learn the fundamentals of tennis, golf and pick‐leball. The Waldorf School of Garden City, 225 Cambridge Avenue, Garden City. moronke@ playtga.com, 516-2020763

Spring Camp @ 10am

Apr 22nd - Apr 26th

A FULL-DAY HANDS ON SCIENCE PROGRAM FOR KIDS DURING SCHOOL VACATIONS IN ROCKVILLE CEN‐TRE, NY 1450 Tangle‐wood Rd, 1450 Tangle‐wood Road, Rockville Centre. helpdesk@ cstl.org, 516-764-0045

Saturday Apr 20th

ReWild at The Preserve: An Earth Day Event in Sands Point is set for April 20 @ 2pm / Free Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point. info@sandspointpreserve.org, 516-571-7901

Learn about rewilding and how to restore native plant communities in your backyard from Mary Reynolds, best-selling author of “The Garden Awakening” and “We are the ARK.”

Decades in Duet with Annalyse & Ryan at the John W Engeman Theater Northport @ 8pm

John W Engeman Theater At Northport, 250 Main St, North‐port

Tue 4/23

FAST Spring Break

Camp - 4/23 - 9:00am3:00pm @ 9am / $130 FAST Syosset @ Sportime, 75 Hasket Drive, Syosset. 516801-3533

Disney's Finding Nemo Jr - Live on Stage! @ 11am / $15

Apr 23rd - Apr 30th

Disney's Finding Nemor Jr - the musical - Live on Stage! Bellmore Movies And Show‐place, 222 Pettit Av‐enue, Bellmore. Sun riseTheatreLI@ gmail.com, 516-2182782

Brooklyn Cyclones vs. Wilmington Blue Rocks @ 7pm Maimonides Park, Brooklyn

Wed 4/24

Ashley Cooke @ 8pm Mulcahy's Pub and Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave, Wan‐tagh

Thu 4/25

Sarah Gross: The Founder's Room w/ Lydia Von Hof @ 5pm The Paramount, 370 New York Ave, Huntington

Own Your Future

Gala

@ 6pm / $350

The Old Westbury Col‐lege Foundation, Inc. is raising funds to sup‐port the students of SUNY Old Westbury while celebrating the commitment and ef‐forts of its honorees.

The Inn At New Hyde Park - Long Island Event Venue, 214 Jeri‐cho Turnpike, New Hyde Park. advance ment@oldwest bury.edu, 516-876-3207

A Bronx Tale @ 7:30pm The Argyle Theatre at Babylon Village, Babylon

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Fri 4/26

New York Mets vs. St. Louis Cardinals @ 7:10pm Citi Field, Flushing

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

Chris Ruggiero LIVE in Port Washington, NY at the Landmark Theater on Friday, April 26, 2024 @ 7:30pm / $44-$65

In Chris Ruggiero's new show, “Teenage Dreams and Magic Moments,” he tells his incredi‐ble story by breathing new life into the timeless music of the 50s, 60s & 70s with a live 6piece band. Jeanne Rimsky Theater, 232 Main Street, Port Washington. info@chrisrug gierosings.com, 516-767-6444

Marisela @ 8pm Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury South

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

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Business&RealEstate

Purchasing a home or a lifestyle or both?

I have dealt with literally thousands of buyer and seller clients over the last 42-plus years, listening to their specific “needs and wants” in finding a purchaser for their homes and buyers in their search for their “next place to call home.” The one common denominator was the location, location and most importantly the school district.

Even for those downsizing or who were empty nesters, the majority weren’t concerned or gave little thought to schools being of any importance. I conveyed to them that the better the schools, the more stable the prices and potentially greater resale value.

I have found and truly understand the importance of an excellent above-average education; the accompanying school curriculum is a defining characteristic that most parents desire for their children.

Sometimes there are limitations to what people and families can afford in purchasing homes in their desired towns; they need to settle for the most optimum location, based on their financial qualifications.

The greatest obstacle is the lack of adequate funding from Albany. The towns that need it the most don’t al-

ways get sufficient funding to attract better-quality teachers. It comes down to paying sufficient remuneration to those educators to live a good life and existence.

Unfortunately, Albany may sometimes not understand or see how important those monies are in the quality of education for those towns that have the greatest need compared to most other school districts. Teachers need to make a living as the second most crucial entity in a child’s life.

One might argue or not think about what a true lifestyle for a teacher might be; and that sometimes is too much to focus on as other less important things are on the agenda. Nothing is as crucial and critical as an education with quality teachers. However, unfortunately, family income and budgets become the problems in attaining a proper education.

Today, we no longer have a conjugal nuclear family structure compared to years ago. We have more single-family units in history; the mothers must not only earn a living to survive but also take on the role of the missing dad model in keeping a stable and healthy environment.

In my eyes, even though the

PHILIP A. RAICES

Real Estate Watch

mothers are doing an amazing job, the deficiency of a father figure is what is many times lacking as the basis of a stronger family unit, creating and leading to a quality, caring, and solid lifestyle to bring one’s children up in.

But then again, there are those independent, divorced, widowed women who do quite a commendable, admirable and praiseworthy job providing the immense effort, discipline, and sacrifice of time in doing

what is needed to provide a quality and grounded environment with the necessary and proper guidance for their kids.

Did you know that grants are available for first-time homebuyers and lower-income individuals and families yearly through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development?

A Realtor’s job should be to assist and guide those who require funding by pointing out those programs from HUD.COM or USA.GOV.

One must go online and fill out an application to be considered. The last time I checked, the grant provided was $50,000 in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. One must get on that list in December of each year (March 6 was the last day to submit your application) as a first-time homebuyer and potentially strike gold in consideration of that “free” money. You must reside in that home for 10 years; otherwise the grant must be repaid.

Since a majority of people that I have spoken to are not aware of these grant programs, one must apply as soon as the grant program is funded and begins in December. Jump in feet first and take advantage of these grant programs. If you need any as-

sistance, feel free to reach out to me.

Some can have a home and a lifestyle together if one will apply and sacrifice the necessary and required time and effort to earn while considering learning how to start a side hustle in conjunction with your job or an additional stream of income as an adjunct to your current business.

This can and will enable you to accomplish greater earnings; if you have a burning desire and passion to improve your position in life, you can and will attain your home and lifestyle.

Real estate might be your vehicle in getting there. Interested? Then call me for a confidential interview and learn how to rid yourself of those invisible job handcuffs and potentially consult your way to the top of the food chain and never look back.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. For a 15-minute consultation, value analysis of your home, or to answer any of your questions or concerns he can be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate. Comor viahttps://WWW.Li-RealEstate. Com

Phishing: A Real and Present Danger to Small Business

Phishing is a form of cyber fraud that uses bogus emails in order to lure victims to part with something of value, such as passwords and credit cards. It does this by mimicking a trusted sender, convincing an employee to click a link. This immediately installs malware like viruses and ransomware to the company’s network where it can access invaluable data.

Sandwire Technology Group fights back on behalf of its clients, small and midsize businesses (SMBs), with limited budgets. Our CyberSafe stack serves as a defensive shield, featuring:

• Email/data backup to retrieve and restore data

• Spam filtration, secure email platform

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven anti-phishing software

• Dark web monitoring/credential exposure protection

• Employee training with phishing tests and educational videos

Phishing emails are becoming increasingly difficult to spot, a trend that sees no end. Today, nearly every major data breach begins with a successful attack.

Is your company protected?

SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

DUO POWER ROSLYN

Tyler Giordano, Lucas Weiser double trouble for opponents

BY MICHAEL J. LEWIS

It was four years ago, before the first day of the season, and the freshman was as nervous as a first-year private at an Army inspection.

Lucas Weisser was just hoping to make the Roslyn baseball varsity in ninth grade, and now he’d made it and was in the starting lineup before the game against Division.

The butterflies were zooming around his belly, and then-senior Jordan Zucker noticed.

On some teams, seniors resent the young upstarts ready to take playing time. Not here.

Zucker walked over to Weisser and gave him advice that’s never been forgotten.

“He just said that hey, if you’re nervous, that just shows this really means something to you,” Weisser recalled last week. “And it calmed me down then and it’s something I’ve never forgotten, and remind myself to this day.”

Weisser isn’t a frightened rookie anymore. Neither is Tyler Giordano, the hulking slugger who was one of his closest pals and a fellow freshman on the Bulldogs 2021 squad.

Now, these two buddies who’ve been playing together forever and trying to make some history, and become the first Roslyn players to make the playoffs all four years they’re on varsity.

Giordano, a 6-foot-1, 240-pound corner infielder and pitcher, hit .468 with 12 RBI last season, while Weisser, who has played every position but catcher, batted .453 with 14 RBI in leading the Bulldogs to the postseason.

Now the duo will try to get the Bulldogs deeper into the playoffs in Class AA.

“They’re two guys who lead by what they say and what they do, and always want the moment,” Roslyn coach Dan Freeman said. “Smart kids with great leadership qualities.”

Giordano has been leading in baseball since he was a toddler; he said he started loving baseball when he got a Little Tykes baseball set when he was 3. It was love at first smash.

“Just being in the batter’s box, that’s the best place in the world,” Giordano said. “The first time I played (in a game) and got a hit, I knew that’s exactly where I wanted to be.”

As he grew (and grew, and grew; he said his Mom always had his birth

certificate on her to prove Tyler’s age), Giordano learned to love the Yankees and the value of patience. To learn about the former, his Dad, Craig, would throw Tyler pop-ups and have him yell out a different Yankees player while the ball was in the air.

The discipline in the box has also been developed; Freeman remembered with fondness a 15-pitch at-bat Giordano worked last year.

“Battle is the word I constantly repeat to myself,” Giordano said. “You can’t hit a homer every time, so you’ve gotta make the pitcher work.”

His buddy Weisser is equally devoted to the craft; after playing a bit of soccer as a kid thanks to a father who played the sport collegiately, Weisser found baseball as his true passion

He is uniquely valuable to the Bulldogs, as he’s played every position but catcher in his career. Last year, when Roslyn needed a reliable second baseman, Weisser got the call even though he’d never played it before.

“Just whatever my team needs me to do, to win, tell me what to do and I’ll do it,” he said.

“He’s just a great athlete with a very high baseball IQ,” Giordano said of Weisser.

Both Giordano and Weisser have pretty good “real world” IQ’s too; Giordano is headed to Indiana University’s business school in the fall, while Weisser will matriculate to the Wharton School at Penn.

Before that, though, there’s more work to do, including Weisser’s volunteer efforts with the Challengers Program, which hosts baseball clinics for children with special needs.

“Being here together with Tyler, we’ve known each other forever and we know this is our last chance to really go far,” Weisser said. “We’ve been waiting for this for three years; can’t wait to see what happens.”

Roslyn baseball senior Tyler Giordano, above, hopes to lead the Bulldogs back to the playoffs in 2024.

PHOTO CREDIT: ROSLYN H.S.

Robert J. Mitchell CPA, EA

Theresa Hornberger CPA

Marvin Goodman CPA, (ret)

Blakeman’s ‘militia’ draws fire from over 2,000 opponents

Continued from Page 6

“We’re just protesting here, bringing up our voices, how will that be used against us?” Margolis asked.

She said his decision to pay the deputies $150 a day is also beyond his authority and is one to be established by the Legislature.

516-385-3132

Finkel questioned whether Blakeman has the authority to implement the law enforcement group, citing a 1965 law that states emergency special deputy candidates must be pooled from other municipalities’ law enforcement officers.

“There is nothing, nothing in the statute or in the legislative history that suggests the armoring of gun-owning civilians,” Finkel said.

“He’s doing (this) completely outside of government and completely without any foundation on a legal basis,” Finkel said.

About a dozen residents spoke against the special deputies during the Legislature’s public comment period, some expressing fears about the group’s implementation.

One resident expressed concern

over the vetting process of the applicants, saying the accused Long Island serial killer Rex Heuermann could have qualified due to his legal ownership of guns.

After the public comment period was closed, no legislator or Blakeman acknowledged or responded to the comments.

The petitioning group said no communication has been achieved with Blakeman.

Efforts to solicit comment from Blakeman were unavailing.

Suozzi backs Johnson’s plan to hold vote on Ukraine aid

Continued from Page 20

Suozzi said propaganda fueled by Russia and Putin is contributing to partisan fighting in Congress and among Americans that has stalled the delivery of aid to Ukraine.

Suozzi did not explain what the propaganda is but said that his social media post about his trip to Ukraine was met with responses of hostility that included fabricated photos of him wearing a Nazi armband.

He claimed that Greene’s stance on Ukraine is “parroting Russia’s propaganda,” attributing the information to “leading Republicans.”

“Mr. Putin didn’t invent American

partisanship, but his lies and propaganda have fed it, giving rise to extremists like Mrs. Greene, who would rather America do nothing with democracy on the line,” Suozzi wrote.

Suozzi’s concerns about Russia fostering anti-Ukraine sentiments in America have been echoed by other government officials. He directly cited statements made by House Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner, a Republican representative from Ohio, and Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul, a Republican from Texas, warning of this trend.

“We see directly coming from Russia attempts to mask communications that

are anti-Ukraine and pro-Russia messages—some of which we even hear being uttered on the House floor,” Turner said.

While the misinformation Suozzi writes of is stated as a threat to the future of Ukraine, the congressman expands the issue more broadly to be a greater threat to democracy.

“This fight isn’t only about Ukraine,” Suozzi wrote. “Russia seeks to tear apart the fragile fabric of international order, end American prominence in Europe, destroy the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and end the era of American-style democracy. America must stop Mr. Putin before our men and women in uniform are forced to defend NATO soil.”

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual election of qualified voters of the Herricks Union Free School District, Town of North Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 in the Gymnasium of the Herricks Community Center, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, New York between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. for the purpose of voting, on voting machines, on the following matters:

A. to vote on the annual school budget as set forth in Proposition No.1 below:

PROPOSITION NO 1

RESOLVED that the 2024-2025 annual school budget for the Herricks Union Free School District and the appropriation of the necessary funds therefore and the levy of taxes necessary to meet the expenditures in said budget be authorized.

B. to elect two board members for a three-year term commencing July 1, 2024 to fill the vacancy occasioned by the expiration of the term of Nancy Feinstein and Brian R. Hassan. C. to vote on such other propositions as may properly come before the voters at this annual school election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Education will hold a public hearing at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at the Herricks Community Center, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, New York for the purpose of discussing the expenditure of funds for school district purposes and the budgeting thereof for the school year beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2025 (the 2024-2025 annual school budget).  At said hearing all persons in interest will be given an opportunity to be heard.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a copy of said 2024-2025 Annual School Budget for the Herricks Union Free School District containing a statement of the amount of money needed to meet the estimated expenses for school purposes for the 2024-2025 school year, exclusive of public monies, together with the text of any propositions, questions and resolutions which will be presented to the voters, will be made available upon request and may be obtained by any district resident at the following offices of the school houses, at the Herricks Community Center, on the District’s internet website (www.Herricks.org), the Williston Park Library and at the Shelter Rock Library during the fourteen days immediately preceding the day of the budget vote and election, except Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, between the hours of  9:00 a.m. and 3:00  p.m.

Center Street School, Center Street, Williston Park, NY

Denton Avenue School, Denton Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY

Searingtown School, west end of Beverly Drive, Albertson, NY

Herricks Middle School, Hilldale Drive, Albertson, NY

Herricks High School, Shelter Rock Road, New Hyde Park, NY

Herricks Community Center, Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, NY

Shelter Rock Academy, Shelter Rock Road, New Hyde Park, NY

Williston Park Library, Willis Avenue, Williston Park, NY

Shelter Rock Library, Searingtown Road, Albertson, NY

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, an exemption report detailing exemptions from real property taxation shall be available and appended to any tentative, preliminary or final budget.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that each candidate for the office of a member of the Board of Education shall be nominated by petition and a separate petition for each such candidate shall be directed to and filed in the Office of the Clerk of said School District located in the Herricks Community Center between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024.  Each such nominating petition shall be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of said school district, and shall state the residence of each signer, and shall state the name and residence of the candidate, and shall describe the specific vacancy on said Board of Education for which the candidate is nominated, which description shall include at least the length of the term of office and name of the last incumbent.  No person shall be nominated by petition for more than one specific office.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that Herricks School District has personal registration of voters and that the Board of Registration for the School District shall meet in the Herricks Community Center, Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, New York, on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified voters of the School District who are entitled to vote.  In addition, registration can be accomplished on any school day from 8 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the District Clerk’s Office through May 16, 2024.  The register so prepared will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of said School District in said Herricks Community Center and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of said School District between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on each of the five days prior to and the day set for such vote, including Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. by appointment only, except Sunday.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a person shall be entitled to vote at the annual election who is:  1) a citizen of the United States, 2) eighteen years of age or older, 3) a resident of the School District for a period of thirty days next preceding the election he or she offers to vote at and 4) registered to vote for said election.  A person shall be registered to vote if he or she shall have permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections or with the School District's Board of Registration.  Only persons, who are so registered, may vote.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that said Board of Registration will meet during the hours of voting and at said annual election on May 21, 2024, at the Herricks Community Center for the purpose of preparing a register for school meetings and elections held subsequent to said annual election.  Any person shall be entitled to have his or her name placed on register provided at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be entitled to vote at school meetings and elections for which the register is being prepared.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that all propositions and questions, which qualified voters of the school district desire placed upon the voting machines at said election, shall be made by petitions subscribed  by not less than one hundred  (100) qualified voters of the district and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. and no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024 thirty (30) days prior to said election, except as to propositions and questions required by law to be stated in the published or posted notice of the annual election which shall be filed not later than sixty (60) days prior to said election.  When the last day for filing a petition falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the petition may be filed on the Monday following the last day for filing. Upon the filing of such a petition the Board of Education shall determine by resolution whether or not to place such questions or propositions on the voting machines.  In the event that the Board of Education shall determine that it is not proper, feasible or practicable to place such proposition or propositions, question or questions, upon a voting machine, then such proposition or propositions, question or questions, as the Board of Education may resolve to place before the voters at said election shall be voted upon by the use of paper ballots.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the applications for early mail and absentee ballots for election of members of the Board of Education, the adoption of the annual budget and vote on any other propositions and questions as may be legally placed before the voters at the annual district election may be applied for at the Office of the Clerk of the District.   An application for early mail and absentee ballot must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the Annual Election.  An application for early mail and absentee ballot must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the Annual Election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the Annual Budget Vote/Election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent.  Upon receiving a timely application for an early mail and absentee ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address designated on the application by no later than six (6) days before the Annual Election.  No early mail and absentee voters’ ballots shall be canvassed, unless it shall have been received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the vote.  A list of all persons to whom early mail and absentee ballots have been given shall be available for inspection in the Office of the Clerk of said School District and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of said School District during regular office hours between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district.  Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration and military ballot application forms must be received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 25, 2024. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is returned by mail or in person and (1) received in the Office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the Office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.

DATED: March

AVISO DE ELECCIÓN ANUAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR Y AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA sobre el  Presupuesto escolar 2024 – 2025 en el  Distrito Escolar De Herricks Ciudad de North Hempstead, condado de Nassau, Nueva York

POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que la elección anual de votantes calificados de el Distrito escolar de  Herricks , Ciudad de North Hempstead, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York se llevará a cabo el martes, 21 de mayo de 2024 en el Gimnasio del Centro Comunitario Herricks, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, Nueva York entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m. con el propósito de votar, al votar en  máquinas, en las siguientes asuntos:

A. votar sobre el presupuesto escolar anual como se establece en la Proposición No. 1 a continuación:

PROPUESTA N° 1

SE RESUELVE que el presupuesto escolar anual 2024-2025 para Herricks Union Free School District y la asignación de los fondos necesarios para ello y la recaudación de los Impuestos necesarios para  sufragar los gastos que en dicho presupuesto se autorice.

B. elegir a dos miembros de la Junta por un período de tres años a partir del 1 de julio de 2024 para cubrir la vacante ocasionada por la expiración del término de Nancy Feinstein y Brian R. Hassan.

C. votar sobre otras propuestas que puedan presentarse ante los votantes en esta elección escolar annual.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la Junta de Educación llevará a cabo una audiencia pública a las 7:30 p.m. el jueves, 9 de mayo de 2024 en Herricks Community Center, 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, New York con el propósito de discutir el gasto de fondos para propósitos del distrito escolar y el presupuesto del mismo para el año escolar que comienza el 1 de julio de 2024 y termina el 30 de junio de 2025 (presupuesto anual del  año escolar 2024-2025). En dicha audiencia, todas las personas interesadas tendrán la oportunidad de ser escuchadas.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que una copia de dicho Presupuesto Escolar Anual 2024-2025 para el Herricks Union Free School District que contenga una declaración de la cantidad de dinero necesaria para gastos estimados con fines escolares para el año escolar 2024-2025, sin incluir dinero público, junto con el texto de las proposiciones, cuestiones y resoluciones que se someterán a la votantes, estará disponible a pedido y puede ser obtenido por cualquier residente del distrito en las siguientes oficinas de las escuelas, en el Centro Comunitario de Herricks, en el sitio web del Distrito (www.Herricks.org), la Biblioteca de Williston Park y en la biblioteca de Shelter Rock durante los catorce días inmediatamente anteriores al día de la votación y elección del presupuesto, excepto los sábados domingos y festivos, en el horario 9:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m.

Center Street School, Center Street, Williston Park, Nueva York

Denton Avenue School, Denton Avenue, New Hyde Park, Nueva York

Searingtown School, extremo oeste de Beverly Drive, Albertson, NY

Herricks Middle School, Hilldale Drive, Albertson, Nueva York

Herricks School, Shelter Rock Road, New Hyde Park, Nueva York

Centro Comunitario Herricks, Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, Nueva York

Shelter Rock Academy, Shelter Rock Road, New Hyde Park, Nueva York

Biblioteca Williston Park, Willis Avenue, Williston Park, Nueva York

Biblioteca Shelter Rock, Searingtown Road, Albertson, NY

SE DA AVISO ADEMÁS de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmueble, un informe de exención  que detallan las exenciones de los impuestos sobre bienes inmuebles estarán disponibles y se adjuntarán a cualquier   presupuesto preliminar o final.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que cada candidato para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deberá ser nominado por petición y una petición separada para cada uno de dichos  candidatos deberá ser dirigida y presentada en la Oficina del Secretario de dicho Distrito Escolar ubicado  en Herricks  Centro Comunitario entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m., y no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. el lunes, 22 de abril de 2024. Cada petición de nominación deberá estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25)  votantes  calificados de dicho distrito escolar, y deberá indicar la residencia de cada firmante, y deberá indicar el nombre y   residencia del candidato, y describirá la vacante específica en dicha Junta de Educación para que el candidato es nominado, cuya descripción incluirá por lo menos la duración del término de  cargo y nombre del último titular. Ninguna persona podrá ser nominada por petición para más de un puesto específico.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que el Distrito Escolar de Herricks tiene un registro personal de votantes y que la Junta de Inscripción del Distrito Escolar se reunirá en el Centro Comunitario de Herricks, Herricks Road, New Hyde Park, Nueva York, el martes 7 de mayo de 2024 entre las 4:00 p.m. y 8:00 p.m. con el propósito de preparar un registro de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar que tienen derecho a votar. Además, la inscripción se puede realizar cualquier día escolar de 8 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito hasta el 16 de mayo de 2024. El registro así preparado  se archivará en   la Oficina del Secretario de dicho Distrito Escolar en dicho Centro Comunitario de  Herricks y estará abierto para  inspección por cualquier votante calificado de dicho Distrito Escolar entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m. en cada uno de los cinco días antes del día fijado para dicha votación, incluido el sábado de 9:00 a.m. a 11:00 a.m.; solamente con cita previa, excepto los domingos.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que una persona tendrá derecho a votar en la elección anual que sea:1)ciudadano de los Estados Unidos, 2) dieciocho años de edad o más, 3) un residente del DistritoEscolar por un  período de treinta días inmediatamente anterior a la elección en la que él o ella ofrecevotar y 4) registrado para votar por  dicha elección. Una persona estará registrada para votar si él o ellase ha registrado permanentemente con  la Junta de Elecciones del Condado de Nassau o con la Junta deRegistro del Distrito Escolar. Solamente  las personas, que están registradas, pueden votar.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que dicha Junta de Registro se reunirá durante el horario de votación y en dicha elección anual el 21 de mayo de 2024, en el Centro Comunitario Herricks con el propósito de preparar un registro para las reuniones escolares y las elecciones que se celebren con posterioridad a dicha elección anual. Ninguna  persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en el registro proporcionado en dicha reunión de la  Junta de Registro a menos que  él o ella es conocido o aprobado a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro para  tener derecho a votar en las juntas escolares y en las elecciones para las que se prepara el registro.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que todas las proposiciones y preguntas, de los votantes calificados de el el distrito escolar que se deseen poner de en las máquinas de votación en dicha elección, se hará mediante peticiones suscritas por no menos de cien (100) votantes calificados del distrito y presentado en la Oficina del Secretario de  el Distrito Escolar entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m. y no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. el lunes, 22 de abril de 2024 treinta (30) días antes de dicha elección, excepto en cuanto a proposiciones y preguntas  requerido por la ley que se indique en el aviso publicado o fijado de la elección anual que se presentará  a más tardar sesenta (60) días antes de dicha elección. Cuando el último día para radicar una petición cae en un  sábado o domingo, la petición podrá presentarse el lunes siguiente al último día de presentación. Sobre la  presentación de dicha petición, la Junta de Educación determinará mediante resolución si se coloca o no  tales preguntas o proposiciones en las máquinas de votación. En el caso de que la Junta de Educación deba  determinar que no es apropiado, factible o practico colocar tal proposición o proposiciones, pregunta o preguntas, en una máquina de votación, entonces tal proposición o proposiciones, pregunta o preguntas, como la  La Junta de Educación puede resolver colocar ante los votantes en dicha elección será votada por el uso de boletas de papel.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las solicitudes de papeletas de voto por correo anticipada y en ausencia para la elección de miembros del  Junta de Educación, la adopción del presupuesto anual y la votación sobre cualquier otra proposición y pregunta  como se puede colocar legalmente ante los votantes en la elección anual del distrito se puede solicitar en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito. El Distrito debe recibir una solicitud para una boleta de voto por correo anticipada y en ausencia en la oficina del Secretario no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la Elección Anual. Una solicitud para una boleta de voto por correo anticipaday en ausencia debe ser recibido por el Secretario del Distrito por lo menos siete (7) días antes de la Elección Anual si la boleta es  para ser enviada por correo al votante, o el día antes de la Votación/Elección del Presupuesto Anual si la boleta debe ser entregada personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna para un boleta de voto por correo anticipada y en ausencia enviada por correo, el secretario del distrito enviará la boleta por correo a la dirección designada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la Elección Anual. Ninguna boleta de votantes por correo anticipada y ausentes  debe  ser escrutado, a menos que se haya recibido en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de la votación. Se facilitará una lista de todas las personas a las que se hayan entregado papeletas de voto por correo anticipada y en ausencia  disponible para inspección en la Oficina del Secretario de dicho Distrito Escolar y estará abierto para inspección  por cualquier votante calificado de dicho Distrito Escolar durante el horario regular de oficina entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m.

SE DA AVISO ADEMÁS de que los votantes militares que no están actualmente registrados pueden  solicitar registrarse como votante calificado del distrito escolar. Votantes militares que son votantes calificados de la escuela distrito pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares  pueden designar una preferencia para  recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta  militar o una boleta militar por correo, facsímil  transmisión o correo electrónico en su solicitud de tal registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de boleta militar deben recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el 25 de abril de 2024. Ninguna boleta sera escrutinada a menos que sea devuelto por correo o enpersona y (1) recibido en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y que muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o de un   servicio postal de un pais extranjero,o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo por  otra agencia de los Estados Unidos Gobierno; o (2) recibido por la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de las elecciones  y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo de ello, con una fechaque se asocia no ser más tarde que el día anterior a la elección.

FECHA: 7 de marzo de 2024

POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN

Nuevo Hyde Park, Nueva York

Lisa Rutkoske, Secretaria Distrito Escolar De Herricks Ciudad de North Hempstead

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Phone: 516.307.1045 x 218

e-mail: dflynn@theisland360.com

In Person: 22 Planting Field Road Roslyn Heights, NY 11577

We’re Open: Mon–Thurs: 9am-5:30pm Fri: 9am-6pm

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and beyond the cost of the ad.

Cancellation Policy Ads must be cancelled the Monday before the first Thursday publication. All cancellations must be received in writing by fax at: 516.307.1046

Any verbal cancellations must be approved by a supervisor. There are no refunds on cancelled advertising. An advertising credit only will be issued.

Publisher's notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

notice: All employment advertising herin is subject to section 296 of the human rights law which makes it illegal to advertise any preference based on religion, sex, familial status, arrest record, national origin, color, age, or disability. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for employment which is in violation of the law. Employment opportunities advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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NHP squatters evicted after nearly 1 year

Continued from Page 1

Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said the Town of North Hempstead expedited the process by paying for movers and storage as required by law. The town is being proactive to make sure similar illegal occupancies do not take place in the future, DeSena said.

“Our Town attorney has already filed an action with New York State Supreme Court under the state zombie housing law to compel the bank to foreclose on this property so it can be sold to new owners and squatters can’t reoccupy the house in the future,” DeSena said in a statement to Blank Slate Media.

Gayle and Grover first moved into the home at Brussel Drive, which was foreclosed on in 2013, in August. Since the bank owning the property changed in recent years, the foreclosure is technically still in progress, neighbor Jerry Jacob said.

The couple brought along their baby, dog, Porsche and a host of trouble for neighbors, who say the couple tormented the neighborhood with an aggressive dog, made vulgar gestures to neighbors, waited outside neighbors’ doors and yelled slurs and filed retaliatory fake police reports against neighbors.

“We’re all extremely frustrated and we cannot believe the shenanigans that they’re playing and they’re not even law-abiding, tax-paying citizens,” Jacob told Blank Slate Media.

The squatters did not leave without a fight.

In their most recent attempt to stay at the property, the couple filed an affidavit for heirship on April 1 in an attempt to stop the bank from foreclos-

ing on the property, according to legal documents.

“We believe all loans/mortgages are satisfied as attached & we have a rent to own since June 1st, 2023,” Grover and Gayle wrote in the affidavit papers.

Neighbors said they presume the affidavit was an attempt to prolong the eviction process since the eviction typically requires a bank title secured through foreclosure.

The couple also wrote that they have been “maintaining and improving the property” since June.

When Grover and Gayle first moved into the empty house, conditions weren’t good.

Police were alerted to the inadequate living conditions at the foreclosed home and investigated the property in October, Jacob said, when officers discovered the home had no electricity, hot water or plumbing.

Both squatters were charged with endangering the welfare of a child and pleaded not guilty. Gayle was also charged with second-degree obstructing governmental administration and resisting arrest.

The Town of North Hempstead Building Department determined the home had failed its inspection and was unlivable without working bathrooms.

William Igbokwe, the lawyer representing Gayle and Grover, said the home was in great shape and his clients have spent money renovating the house.

“They’ve spent money. They have a one-year-old child. That child is now the subject of a family court manner,” Igbokwe said.

After the couple was arrested and removed from the home in October, they

Gayle are headed now that their time at Brussel Drive is up.

Many neighbors said they are worried the couple might return to Maple Lane where they had lived earlier.

Grover and Gayle legally rented an apartment on Maple Lane in 2022, according to Sgt. Richard Soto, a Nassau County police officer and expert on illegal occupancy and evictions.

Eventually, Grover and Gayle stopped paying their rent at Maple Lane, said Soto.

He said the owner of the property was unsure of how to proceed; she contemplated taking the couple to landlord-tenant court but assumed it would be a large expense.

But before the owner made a decision, Grover and Gayle informed her they were moving out, said Soto. The couple then moved into the 39 Brussel Drive home in 2023.

presented a two-year lease beginning June 1 for the home in court, claiming they had been illegally locked out of the home by the landlord, Edward Iacono. But Iacono had died in 2016.

Igbokwe said when the couple entered the lease, they believed they were entering a lease with the landlord. It was only when the neighbors became involved that Gayle and Grover “began to question: Is it possible they were dealing with someone who wasn’t Edward Iacono?” Igbokwe said.

In December 2023, Nassau County District Judge Christoper Coschignano granted the couple occupancy of the home.

For months, neighbors have faced a legal gridlock over the illegal occu-

pancy.

They won a small victory whenCoschignano reversed his initial decision on March 6 and ordered the squatters to be evicted.

The town said it would pay for the commercial movers and 30 days of storage required for the eviction. This is a requirement before police can move forward with an eviction.

The residents of Brussel Drive say the squatters have created an unsafe environment, one the residents have endured for months.

“A lot of people jumped to conclusions. The couple suffered because they believed they had a right to that home,” Igbokwe said.

It is unclear where Grover and

The property at 1030 Maple Lane is currently undergoing construction because of a leak in the building, Soto said.

Grover and Gayle returned to Maple Lane and told the owner they are still living at her property and cannot be kicked out because they have a signed lease through 2024, Soto said.

“Basically, because she’s letting them still in [to the property], we have a problem,” Soto said. “I’m not saying that they can’t be arrested. These are all gray areas that haven’t been dealt with.”

Some neighbors said they assume the couple will return to Maple Lane and try to squat there, especially since some neighbors reported seeing a different moving van on Maple Lane this morning.

Kyra’s Champions call for child protection law

Continued from Page 2

separation. She attributed these deaths to the failings of the court and protective systems to safeguard these children.

“How many more pinwheels do we need to add?” Franchetti asked.

She said the way to prevent child deaths like her daughter’s is by strictening the laws that protect children, such as through their proposed “Kyra’s Law.” She and the group advocated for its passage by the state Legislature.

“We know, together, the devastating consequences of doing nothing,” Franchetti said, sur-

rounded by other children and adults enthralled in family court issues.

Kyra’s Law encompasses three aspects: making child safety the top priority in custody cases, mandating judge training and stopping common practices that permit abusive parents to gain custody of a child.

Franchetti said the bill has already received 91 co-sponsors in the state Assembly, amounting to two-thirds of the body. The very first co-sponsor of that law was Sillitti.

The world is watching the State of New York, and I will make sure they know whether this law

passes or not,” Harvey said. “And I will make sure they know who does not support it because those who don’t support it support dead children. It’s that simple. It’s not complicated.”

Joining the organization in their calls to implement Kyra’s Law were two kids, Logan Haase, 12, and Evan DiFranco, 14, who shared their “horror stories” going through the family court system.

Prior to her daughter’s death, Franchetti said she sought help from the Nassau County Family Court office after leaving Kyra’s father due to abuse. She said he was stalking, harassing and threatening her and Kyra, and she feared for the

safety of their lives.

“The judge’s response to me was that I should grow up,” Franchetti said.

Because of that judge’s response to Franchetti’s calls for help, she said, Kyra will now never get the chance to grow up.

This was just one example Franchetti cited of the neglect she said she experienced at the hands of the systems intended to protect her.

“Kyra’s murder was entirely preventable,” Franchetti said. “The murder of 759 other children was entirely preventable. We need to do more.”

Andrew Malekoff, child advocate, columnist dies at 72

Continued from Page 3

Andrew told his son that the most valued days of his life were his wedding, the births of his two sons and Darren’s wedding – a day he was not sure he would experience as his health declined but one he persevered through to be at.

“I thought it would take me a while to understand the strength it took him to get through that day,” Darren said. “Only a few months later would I find myself having that same strength, caring for him through an extended period in hospice.”

While a busy man, Andrew was still able to devote time to writing numerous columns, in-

cluding his weekly column “The Back Road” for Blank Slate Media. His columns, too, garnered him various awards, including the NY Press Association Journalism Award for Best Column.

Blank Slate Media Publisher Steven Blank remembered Andrew as a valuable member of the editorial staff and a leader in the community who was dedicated to all of his work.

Andrew began writing columns for Blank Slate Media about children’s mental health in 2018 and transitioned into political commentary through his seven years of writing for the publication.

Blank praised Andrew’s writing, calling him

a prolific writer who contributed quality work. He said he always looked forward to reading his columns.

Even though Andrew had been battling cancer for years, Blank said he never missed a weekly column.

“There was a type of commitment that he had,” Blank said. “When he stopped writing, it was a sad day.”

Blank said Andrew gave him a heads-up that he was writing his last column due to his declining health, which was published in November. Upon sharing the news, Blank said Andrew was apologizing.

“I missed him when he told me that he would no longer be able to write the column, and I miss him more now,” Blank said.

Andrew’s last column was a goodbye to the Blank Slate Media readers, explaining his health condition and appreciation for being able to write about political topics and personal stories.

“If I could leave you with one central message as I depart from this role, it would be to follow your heart. The decisions you make in the days and years to come will be critical to shaping our future and the futures of our children and grandchildren,” Andrew wrote in his last column. “Choose wisely and get out.”

PHOTO BY TAYLOR HERZLICH

Nassau County sheriffs and police officers evicted squatters staying at 39 Brussel Drive on Friday morning. Denton Gayle can be seen in a blue flannel.

Continued from Page 1

for the event. Children under 12 enter free, the adult fee to enter is $5 and the vendor fee to enter is $10. All proceeds are donated to The American Legion and the AACA of Long Island.

“People love the show. The mayor loves it. He can’t believe it,” Guastella said. “The neighbors, everybody loves it. So we’re doing another one in October, too.”

Last year’s car show raised around $600 in donations and that was on a cloudy day. Thus Guastella said he is hoping for a nice, sunny day this time around.

Guastella said some of his favorite cars from past Williston Park car shows include a 1910 racing car called the Black Beast, a prototype

1963 Mustang and an antique car bought by Mr. Chrysler himself for his wife many years ago. There is no judging or awards at the Williston Park show.

Vendors are welcome to set up tables without registering. The brand-new food truck from Dominick’s Deli will be parked at the car show so customers can enjoy the deli’s popular chick-

en fingers and sandwiches.

Guests can use the indoor bathrooms at The American Legion building.

The event is family-friendly. Guastella said he often sees fathers bringing their children to the car show and he has even seen car owners, including himself, let children sit inside the cars.

Port’s new eatery: Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant

Continued from Page 11

For those with a sweet tooth the dessert menu features Tartufo Classico, zabaglione cream center surrounded by chocolate gelato, and caramelized hazelnut topped with cocoa powder, and a Pistachio and Ricotta Cheesecake.

You can’t forget wine — the Silician organic orange wine, Montepulciano, Chianti, Cabernet Barolo, and Lambrusco all originating from Italy.

Flora’s is also known for some of their signature cocktails like an Arugula Spritz and Floras Manhattan, which consists of bourbon, aperol, sweet vermouth, and lemon Juice.

Ervis will primarily be at their Port Washington location while Gabriella will be working from their Syosset one. One of the biggest challenges so far for

Ervis has proven to be accommodating large parties since it’s only a 40-seat restaurant.

“We hope that everyone understands we can’t accommodate large groups — that’s our biggest challenge at the moment. We would love to host private events, but we can’t accommodate them for dinner at least. For lunch we can be more practical.”

Continued from Page 12

signings, cafe, gifts, toys, Friday night live music events and much more. The book store closed in 2022, after 76 years. “Bayles was very instrumental in developing Port Washington,” Defrin said. “That particular store was one of the first stores in that area to even have a phone.

His name is in the walkway of the store as soon as you walk in. You’ll find a lot of streets named after him because he was a very important fixture of the community.”Inspired by his father’s passion for antique collecting, Defrin followed in his footsteps and joined The Art and Antique Dealers League of America in 2002. It is

known as the oldest and principal antiques and fine arts organization in America, where Defrin is currently an executive committee member.

Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant, 172 Main St., Port Washington, 11050

Open Tuesday through Saturday 12 to 10 p.m., Monday and Sunday 12 to 9 p.m.

Now that Flora’s Wine Bar and Restaurant has opened in Port Wasington, you can grab a glass of something delicious at the bar or enjoy an intimate dinner date at a table taking in what Flora’s has to offer.

A European treasure house comes to Port Legion to host 9th annual W.P. car show

“When I became president about 20 years ago, that’s when I first interacted with Scott and eventually put him on the board,” AADLA CoPresident Clinton Howell said. He is also the founder of his own shop, Clinton Howell Antiques.

“He’s thoughtful, a very good dealer of European decorative arts,” Howell said. “In my own experience, if you’re good at what you do, people will seek you out. It’s a complicated field and Scott does it extremely well.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB GUASTELLA

Residents browse vintage cars at the 2023 Williston Park car show.

Mineola student accepted to Skidmore Jazz Institute program

Mineola School District congratulates tenth grader Shayan Dhar on his acceptance to the Skidmore Jazz Institute summer program with a full scholarship.

This summer, Shayan will pack up his baritone saxophone join 65 fellow aspiring young musicians for the prestigious two-week program which is held at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY. The program offers attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in an intense curriculum led by the faculty of top jazz practitioners and educators. It is designed to inspire appreciation and understanding of the traditions of jazz, while focusing on improvisational, rehearsal and performance skills.

Mineola High School Band and Jazz Ensemble Director Mr. Marc Ratner expressed his excitement and pride over Shayan’s acceptance. “To be accepted to a program of this caliber, applicants must display exceptional musical aptitude, as well as an appreciation for the jazz that sets them apart,” said Mr. Ratner. “I am thrilled for Shayan and confident that he will have a rewarding and meaningful experience that will enhance his passion for jazz performance and provide him with essential connections for the future.”

Mineola learner Shayan Dhar has been accepted to the prestigious Skidmore Jazz Institute summer program with a full scholarship. (L-R): Mineola High School Band and Jazz Ensemble Director Mr. Marc Ratner and tenth grader Shayan Dhar.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MINEOLA SCHOOL DISTRICT

Troop 201 holds pancake fundraiser

The boys of Scout Troop 201 of Herricks are shown, having fun and raising money for their high adventure trips on Sunday, March 24 at their annual pancake fundraiser at the Albertson Firehouse at 100 I U Willets Road.

COMMUNITY & SCHOOL NEWS

Mineola students

serve up a pasta feast

The Mineola community came together on April 4 for the annual “mINNeola Macaroni” fundraiser, an evening of food and friends that benefits Long Islanders in need.

This year’s event raised $2,720 for the Mary Brennan Inn, a notfor-profit, volunteer-based organization that provides essential services to assist those challenged by hunger, homelessness and poverty on Long Island.

Mineola High School students served up a variety of pasta dishes,

along with salad, beverages and desserts, all which were provided by Uncle Bacala’s Restaurant in Garden City Park. Guests included Mineola administration, faculty and students, as well as senior citizens from the community.

“mINNeola Macaroni” is an annual fundraising event organized by Mineola High School’s Student Service Center, which provides students the opportunity to volunteer and provide community support during and after school.

Mineola High School learners serveplates of pasta for a great cause at the

fundraiser on April 4.

Upcoming events to be held at the Williston Park Library

From the Director

The summer 2024 Reading Program theme is Adventure Begins at Your Library. Our program will run from June 29Aug. 10. Program information will be forthcoming, once everything is confirmed and will be posted on our Facebook page and in this column.

We are suspending donation acceptance until further notice. We are at storage capacity. Please consider donating to The Book Fairies. Their contact number is 516-557-6645.

The library is still distributing Covid-19 tests while supplies last. Please ask at the Reference Desk.

New titles added to the collection:

Sisters of Belfast—Melanie Maure

Witch of New York: The Trials of Polly Bodine & the Cursed birth of Tabloid Justice—Alex Hortis

Mostly What God Sees—Savannah Guthrie

Still See You Everywhere—Lisa Gardner

Mockingbird Summer—Lynda Rutledge

Day Tripper—James Goodhand

How to Raise a Healthy Gamer—Alok Kanojia

Good Half Gone—Tarryn Fisher

Adult Programs

Reiki—April 18; May 2 & 23—6pm in the Assembly Room of Village Hall. $10 p/person; p/session.

Yoga—Saturdays—April 20; May 11, 18, 25; June 1, 8, 15, 22—Noon-1 pm in the Assembly Room of Village Hall. $10 p/person, p/session. Please bring a yoga mat, water bottle and towel; Wear comfortable clothes. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Book Discussion—Wednesday—April 25—DATE

CHANGE—7pm in the Assembly Room of Village Hall and via zoom. Copies of Dark Matter by Blake Crouch are available at the Circulation Desk. https://adelphiuniversity.zoom. us/j/96885670102?pwd=VGtSYnkyUW9acVJyV0tyNUtUZ nMyZz09 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

Cactus Rocks Craft with Lisa Colon—Monday—April 29—6pm in the Library. $10 material fee p/person due at registration. Per vendor, limited to 20 participants. Call the

library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail. com to register.

Empire Safety Defensive Driving Course—Thursday— May 16—10am-4pm in the Assembly Room of Village Hall for drivers of all ages. $33 p/person ($35 p/person for Spanish workbook). Registration forms are available at the Circulation Desk. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Book Discussion—Wednesday—May 8—7pm in the Assembly Room of Village Hall and via zoom. Copies of Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath will be available the Circulation Desk. https://adelphiuniversity.zoom.us/j/96885670102?pwd=V GtSYnkyUW9acVJyV0tyNUtUZnMyZz09 Meeting ID: 968 8567 0102 Passcode: WPBookClub or just call 1-929-2056099 on your phone and it will ask for the meeting id and password above

Children’s Programs

Storytime with Miss Beth—Tuesdays—May 7, 14, 21, 28; June 4 & 11—12:00-12:45 in the Children’s Room. Please no walk-ins. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Dental Health—Friday—April 19—10:30am in the Children’s Room. Join the presentation about healthy dental habits, diets and what happens at a dentist visit. Each child will receive their own goodie bag of dental supplies. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail. com to register.

Children’s Movie—Saturday—April 20—12pm in the Children’s Room. Light refreshments will be served. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail. com to register.

STEAM Craft—Saturday—April 27—12-1pm in the Children’s Room. Learn about 2 & 3D printing and create your own mini Eiffel Tower. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Mother’s Day Craft—Saturday—May 11—12-1pm in the Children’s Room. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

Memorial Day Take-n-Make Craft—Saturday—May 25— 12-1pm in the Crildren’s Room. Call the library (742-1820) or email willistonparkprograms@gmail.com to register.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MINEOLA SCHOOL DISTRICT

“mINNeola Macaroni”