I am excited to support Christine Monterosso for re election to the BOE.

When we moved here from the city aloft 20 years ago, people would ask why. Since neither my husband or I commuted, the answer was, the schools, (Well, and restaurants, since I don’t cook.)

While our daughter is now a junior in college, we are still invested in our community. We are proud to have sent her through the Manhasset School district for 13 years, and am enjoying watching so many children and teens that I’ve had in my classes excel in their educations here in the district. Watching them on the fields, in the magnificent plays (OK, maybe I’m a tad biased), in Louie’s, or on Plandome Road.

Over the past six years Christine has overseen six annual budgets; Manhasset has one of three best STEM educations in the state and best on Long Island (ok…WOW)! The curricular enhancements are many; rich literature-based approach to reading; sequence of engineering classes; and my personal favorite, broadcast journalism. I was so happy to hear a local mom tell me how happy she was we added broadcast journalism to school, as her child has finally found their place. I know this goes for quite a few students.

Going forward, Christine will work on adding Robotics to our schools. I’m excited for the students to get involved in what will surely be a competitive team and maybe lead to an aerospace engineer from Manhasset. I’m hoping they can try the robot out at cleaning my house in test trials

She will look at the college application process, so our kids can continue to compete at the highest level.

I have always been proud to tell people our public schools are better than private ones and it’s where our kids get their sense of community. I am never happier than when I have an entire studio of Manhasset kids. I can’t explain it, but they are special.

I hope to see you on May 17 casting your ballots for Christine.

—Ann Gray Graf

Owner/founder, The Actor’s Garage, and Manhasset resident for over 19 years.

I am writing to express my support for Allison O’Brien Silva, who is running for one of two seats on the Board of Education on May 17. Allison has been a dear friend for years. She is smart, kind and a person of integrity. She is someone who listens and someone who cares. She is also someone with the judgment and capacity to make good decisions. Knowing her commitment, her demeanor and her heart, I know that she would be a fabulous addition to the board.

While my personal experience has informed my decision to support Allison, her background, skills and involvement in the Manhasset community are also relevant. Allison has a business background, having worked at McKinsey, a leading strategy consulting firm after attending business school at Columbia. As a fellow alumnus of McKinsey, I know that these experiences provide a strong foundation for managing the broad range of issues that come to the board, including strategic planning, human resources, operations and finance.

More recently, Allison has spent the past years focused on raising her three girls and immersing herself in the Manhasset community. Allison is currently a Girl Scout leader and has been a Girl Scout cookie leader for years. She has also been a class mom on multiple occasions and has always stepped up to volunteer whenever needed.

She is the person, like so many of us, who wants her children to share in the traditions that make Manhasset a wonderful place to grow up. Never seeking attention or appreciation, Allison has been quietly contributing to our community for many years. With her youngest just finishing Kindergarten, she is ready to do more as a member of our board of education.

For these reasons and many more, I hope that you will consider electing Allison O’Brien Silva to the Manhasset BOE.

Sincerely,

—Jennifer Herber

I am writing to show my support for Nadia Giannopoulos, who is running for a seat on the Manhasset School Board of Education. Nadia has been a neighbor and a friend since she and her family moved to the neighborhood in 2015. We have had many friendly conversations about living and raising a family in Manhasset.

Nadia and I share many common values; the most important of which, is the health and welfare of our children. We became very interested in the 5G issue that Verizon was pushing on our neighborhood because we were both concerned about the affect additional cell towers would have on the developing brains of young residents. Together, we attended meetings to make our voices heard.

Nadia’s love and respect for learning is quite evident, as she is currently working on her PhD,
I know she works hard for the causes she believes in and will do her best to hear all sides of a discussion. She is respectful of a “team approach,” and will lend the knowledge she has gleaned from years of higher learning and apply it to the issues at hand.

Nadia Giannopoulos is a very hard worker who takes on tasks head on. She is a person of integrity who recognizes the importance of giving back to the community in which she resides. As a member of the board of education, she will bring with her a unique perspective, augmented by her background in education and business development.

Thank you,

—Liz Oppo

I’m writing on behalf of a gentleman that I believe will be a great asset to the Manhasset Board of Education.

Steve Panzik is uniquely qualified for this critical position on theboard. He has dedicated his life’s work to the betterment of students both academically and through team sports. As the current program director for Manhasset Crew, I’ve seen first-hand the impact of his dedication.
Athletes in our program learn teamwork, the importance of advocating for oneself and time management under his purview. An exceptionally demanding sport, our athletes are amongst the highest in academic achievement. This would not be possible without Steve’s vision for the program and the commitment to the personal advancement of every athlete.

Steve has also committed himself to the well-being and safety of our children. As past president and current member of CASA, he has stewarded this organization in implementing multiple environmental strategies to change the community conditions by which teens abuse alcohol and prescription drugs. This provides a unique set of experiences that allow him to see the students more holistically. As a parent with three children in the Manhasset School system, this couldn’t be more important for him to get right.

Our school district is currently ranking lower than neighboring schools, when in the past we were leaders on Long Island. There is a growing urgency to stem the decline and return our school system back to its former ranking. This will require empowering and motivating all stakeholders to take on this challenge and for our community to back what is necessary to procure the best talent and leadership to do so. Steve sees this as an essential area of improvement for our school system. As a successful business owner and entrepreneur, he has the necessary business, financial and relationship building skills to support the board in these efforts.

As most of us can attest, the last several years of COVID has been trying on our children. This adversity was something that Steve saw as another problem worth solving. He worked with the Board of the Friends of Manhasset Crew to keep our program operational for our athletes. This was not a small feat.

In closing, Steve brings the fresh perspective, focus and drive we need to make a meaningful impact in our school system. Please join me in supporting him for election to the Manhasset BOE.

—Carlo Calcagni, RPh

Resident of Manhasset (31 years), and chairman, Manhasset Crew.

Not long ago, a transcript labeled “Manhasset High School” assured colleges that a student had one of the best educations available. No longer. Across the country, public and private schools have upped their game.

Christine Monterosso knows this. For six years, she’s guided the school board to push for excellence in our classes, our theater productions, our teams.

Manhasset High School graduates face a complicated, competitive world. Christine made sure we introduced engineering classes in the high school and created a first-class broadcast journalism center. After studying the successes of neighboring districts, she wants to add Robotics to our curriculum.

Manhasset residents are about to cast the most underappreciated vote of the year, with consequences for our families, our neighborhoods and—yes—our property values.

A great school board depends on great volunteers. That means members who are enthusiastic, tireless, fearless in demanding better and better—members who care equally about every family.

That is why I’m urging my neighbors to join me in voting for Christine Monterosso on May 17.

—Dave Marcus

Marcus, a Manhasset resident, is the author of Acceptance (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), a book about Long Island students applying to college.

This year’s budget vote will be held on Tuesday, May 17, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the High School Gym. Voter information can be found on the district’s website, www.manhassetschools.org.

The proposed budget for 2022-2023 represents a budget-to-budget increase of 2.23 percent and a tax levy increase of 2.38 percent, which is at the district’s tax cap.

The proposed budget maintains academic, athletic and extracurricular offerings. It also sustains support for student services, expands student opportunities and continues the district’s critical investments in facilities and technology, at the allowable tax levy cap.

In addition, Manhasset residents will also vote on a separate proposition to fund district capital projects totaling $3.185 million through the district’s 2010 and 2018 capital reserves and the district’s general fund unassigned fund balance. Importantly, there would not be any additional tax impact for residents if the proposition is approved.

Projects include:

• Replacing the kindergarten playground at Shelter Rock School;

• Replacing the infield turf and creation of a multi-use field for district and community use. The multi-use field will serve all sports and will be an appropriate size for Middle School sports competition;

• Replacement of the Secondary School northwest field turf;

• Completion of asphalt, water main, and sidewalk replacement project at the Secondary School;

• Replacement of certain ceiling and lighting at the Secondary School.

In addition, the ballot will include the election of two members to the Board of Education, each to serve a three-year term beginning July 1, 2022 and ending on June 30, 2025.

The League of Women Voters of Port Washington-Manhasset held a candidate’s forum over Zoom on May 9. More than 2,800 people have viewed the YouTube movie.

The moderator, Julie B. Meer, asked questions submitted by community members. The following questions are followed by the time stamp in the movie at which they were asked:

Q: How would you differentiate your role on the board from that of the superintendent, who is responsible for day-to-day management decisions? And by extention,  how much authority does the school board have over specific decisions like grade-appropriate textbooks, reading lists and library books? 25:46

Q: With the rise in depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation among children and teens, do you believe the district’s partnership with Northwell Health is adequate to solving this critical problem, and are there other things our district should be doing? 32:48

Q: Do you support the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiative? As a board member, how would you show committment to equity and fairness and support all students from differing social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders and sexual orientation? 39:39

 Q: Board of education members take an oath to uphold federal, state and local laws, regulations, policy and mandates. Will you push back against government mandates, and if yes, how would you push back without losing state funding if you believe they are unhelpful and detrimental to children? 46:01

Q: Serving in a public office requires avoiding conflicts of interest where your personal concerns or activities are incomptable with your official duties. Would you agree that a board member or a board member’s spouse being an employee or consultant to the district is a conflict of interest? 52:03

Q: Please describe specific steps you would undertake to 1. include the voices of the broader community on issues of concern; 2. balance or reconcile potentially diverging perspectives; and 3. encourage civil discourse during meetings? 57:00

Q. Which of the special enrichment programs at the elementary and high school levels do you fully support and might want to extend? Also, since not every graduate is college-bound, what programs would you prioritize for them? 1:04:26

Q: Do Manhasset schools currently teach critical race theory? Why would critical race theory be apprpriate or not appropriate in our schools? 1:10:50

Q: Year after year, Munsey Park Elementary School is short on space. Class sizes are large and approach or exceed guidelines. What are your thoughts on how to create more breathing room at one of the largest elementary schools on Long Island? 1:17:23

Q: As a recent Manhasset graduate, I have seen dramnatic changes in the college application process. What challenges do you see this causing for our students, and what is your plan to ensure Manhasset schools are equitable in helping Manhasset students navigate this process and improve their chances in getting into top tier coilleges? 1:24:20

Q: Please share a specific example of of an achievement or excellence in the academics, arts and/or athletics in the Manhasset School District? 1:29:22

Here are extracts from the 90-minute debate.

Opening Statements

Nadia Giannopoulos:

My husband and I moved to Manhasset first of all for the spirit of the community and the educational opportunities Manhasset has to offer.

I have dedicated my entire career to education. I hold numerous degrees relevant to this role. I have a bachelor’s in speech language pathology and audiology, a master’s in general and special education and building and educational leadership. I am currently a doctoral candidate pursuing a degree in leadership and learning in organizations.

I hold community leadership positions in the Girl Scouts and am director of development for the Katie Oppo Research fund. In a prior life I was a Cub Scout Den Leader.

In addition to my formal education, over the last 14 years I have served as an administrator to a large New York State educational program. I oversee operations affecting hundreds of families, students and staff annually. Working in New York City has allowed me the opportunity to support children and staff from diverse demographics and needs.

Through these experiences I have gained the skill set of empathy, resilience, dedication and engaging in civil discourse—skills necessary to be a representative of our district. With my education and dedication to community service, I felt compelled to pursue investing my talent an experience in our community.

I want to use my parental experience to share my insight and work collaboratively and refocus our district and its intended purpose and end goals by delivering an education based on excellence.

Christine Monterosso:

I grew up in Massapequa and went to Cornell and graduated from Duke Law School, working for a large New York City law firm.

My husband and I moved to Manhasset 18 years ago. We believe strongly in public schools and we wanted to raise our family in a town with a fantastic public school system.

I have graduated one child and have one each in the secondary school and the elementary school. I could say with authority that the Manhasset School District has exceeded even my very high expectations.

My children are very different from one another, but each has been able to find a home here. Their experiences has left me so grateful that I wanted to continue to give back to make sure that each of our kids has a place to grow and thrive academically and athletically and emotionally.

I am truly running from a place of love—of our towns, love of our schools and most importantly, love of our kids. And I believe—particularly with regards to children—governing from a place of love and cooperation will always be better than governing from a place of anger.

There’s been a lot of talk about politics in schools and it’s been disappointing to me because I don’t believe we should be letting politics interfere with how we educate our kids. That is why board candidates don’t run on a party line.

I’ve worked with six other trustees well. We have very different political views, but we have left all that at the door. We’ve been guided by one thought only: how do we do what’s best for the kids as well staying fiscally responsible.

Because almost all of our decisions have been unanimous, we came to a consensus that is consistent with our town’s shared values.

Outside groups on either end of the political spectrum don’t know what is best for our kids. [During] my six years we’ve added programming every year while staying below the tax cap. This balance keeps our schools top notch and our property values high, which benefits our entire community.

I believe we must work to maintain that balance and I am the candidate to do it. I’ve been doing this for six years and I feel like I’m just getting started and that is why I’m asking for your vote. And while new blood is good for an organization, nothing teaches like experience. I am the only candidate running who knows exactly what this job takes. I am the only candidate who’s actually proven that they could collaborate with a wonderful administration, faculty, staff and families to work in the best interest of our kids.

I know what aspects of our school should be left to the discretion of our administration and faculty, the real education experts. And which aspects require the attention of the board.

We have a tradition of excellence here and I have been part of maintaining that tradition and keeping it alive.

Steve Panzik:

My 20 years of coaching at the high school level allows me to bring a unique perspective to the board. Over the 20 years I worked with three superintendents and six athletic directors. I’ve build trust and respect with administrators and faculty.

These relationships within the school allow me unique insights into many matters that have occurred in our school district. I’ve actually worked as a liaison with the administration and parents to collaborate and work for the benefits of the students.

During this time I’ve also organized and developed The Row for the Fight Regatta working alongside with the Manhasset Coalition Against Breast Cancer. This program empowered the students in the junior coalition to take ownership and create fundraising opportunities.

I was also fortunate to be one of four coaches recruited to work with the athletic director to compose the school board-endorsed Manhasset Athletic Communication Protocol. The goal is to help students develop healthy pathways with coaches and the team, and learn how to self advocate for themselves in a respectful manner.

I’ve also served as an executive board member of CASA since 2018 and work with the administration to provide educational opportunities about substance abuse.

These experiences of working closely with the kids in multiple settings, along with the relationships with administration and faculty allowed me a true insight into the day-to-day [workings of the district].

As a physical therapist, entrepreneur and local businessman owner, I value communication and ability to work effectively as a team. I am about practical application and solving problems, not theoretical solutions. My wife and I moved to Manhasset almost 20 years ago and she has roots in this community. She continues to play an active role in Manhasset as the Saint Mary’s Elementary School nurse after serving the same role for five years at Munsey Park.

We have raised three kids in this district. All currently attend secondary school and are in 10th, 11th and 12th grade.

As a parent, I have seen first-hand how the curriculum in primary schools [creates] an invaluable foundation for secondary school success. And now I have insight into the programming at the secondary school that has a direct effect on [a student’s] college opportunities.

I look to earn your vote tonight as we discuss matters that are at the forefront in our district and country. I cannot promise to have all the answers, but I can promise to work tirelessly to find them.

As many of you know my first school board meeting was in support of my son and his graduation [date chnage] request. I am grateful for the many hours that the district put into trying to accommodate the request and I’m sorry it could not be accomplished. I’m also thankful for the lessons he and his friends learned through the process and the opportunity it afforded me to become more aware of the board of education and [its] value.

We have an amazing and diverse community and a strong school district with passionate faculty and a driven administration.

We need to set up a system to allow admins to admin and teachers to teach and every student to excel in a healthy environment.

Allison O’Brien Silva:

My husband and I have three daughters [attending] Munsey Park Elementary School.

We moved to Manhasset eight years ago and we knew right away we were in a special place because there were so many of you who chose to come back to raise your children here too.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with many of you through my involvement in Girl Scouts over the years when I was a parent representative for my daughters’ classes.

Our schools are among the best in the country and we should celebrate that. But we should also continue to challenge ourselves to improve.

I’m running for the board beccause I want our children to have the best public education possible. To be challenged, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential—from their first days in kindergarten to their culminating moment in their cap and gown on the high school lawn.

I believe my professional experience has prepared me for a role on the school board. I grew up on Long Island and went to college at the University of Pennsylvania. After college, I worked in Washington, first in government affairs and then in marketing at a national institution.

I then moved back to New York for my MBA at Columbia Business School and after my MBA, I joined McKinsey & Company as a management consultant, where we were held to the highest professional standards at work.

At McKinsey, we spent as much time communicating our progress with our clients as we did doing our research and analysis. The first thing I hope to contribute to the board is to improve how the board communicates an engages with the community. The board’s priority should be a reflection of our community’s needs and concerns.

We had unique challenges that we faced during the last couple of years. These challenging times require our board to be much more proactive leaders in communicating, seeking input and seeking consensus.

The acute crisis of educating our children during the pandemic is behind us. I also hope to refocus back on delivering what makes Manhasset great—a rigorous academic program that inspires curiosity, intellectual growth and a wide variety of sport, arts, community service and extra-curricular activities to encourage growth outside the classroom, and a full spectrum of guidance for all students.

A few of my ideas include introducing foreign language back at the elementary schools, monitoring and addressing COVID learning loss and [introducing] advanced classes for the humanities in the middle school.

As for capital expenditures, I would focus on upgrading and modernizing our classrooms, staying current in our technology and improving our outdoor athletic spaces and playing fields.

Of course, we must work within our budget. The community entrusts the board with oversight responsibility and I can assure you that I will take that seriously.

In summary, I have relevant professional experience, a passion for our schools and I’m willing to dedicate myself to this role. I’ll be accessible, responsive and open to everyone’s ideas and then put.

I have young children in the district. I will help make the schools the best they could be for all of our students.

Closing Statements

Giannopoulos:

I’m very excited to hopefully be [elected to] the board of education and be a voice for the families and for the children. I look forward to what’s ahead and welcome anybody with any questions that they have to reach out to me.

Moving forward, if I were [a trustee] there are few things I’d genuinely like to focus on. [One] would be to have families really have a voice at the meetings and guide agenda item so that this way we’re meeting the needs of the community head on.

I also would love to engage in civil discourse. I know everybody wants that, wants to put politics aside and to just focus on our children’s education, and I don’t think it’s a pipe dream. This is Manhasett and we’re leaders and we could do this.

I really look forward to introducing a curriculum committee and meeting different members of the community. I learned we had one years ago, but it was dissolved and I would love to bring that back collaboratively with our teachers to see what beautiful things that they’re putting together.

And also a very important thing for me is to assess class size and [introduce] possible assistant teachers. We need to bring our classrooms to smaller ratios for our children to really get the best education that they can.

Monterosso:

When I tell people I’m running for reelection to the Manhasset Board of Education, I generally get sideways glances and a one-word question: “Why?” Not every “Why” is the same, of course. Some ask because they can’t understand why anyone would want to put themselves through the process and become a target. Others ask because they want to understand my motivation for choosing to do this.

Whatever the reason, my answer is the same: I want to serve on the board because I believe in this community. It’s that simple. I’ve been on the board for six years. I’ve witnessed what happens when Manhasset comes together. We’ve accomplished so much and can still do more—much more—to improve the education of our children.

I’m enormously proud of the achievements during my tenure on the board. We’ve enacted major curriculum enhancements at the elementary and secondary levels. A budget referendum passed, adding new Munsey Park classrooms, a broadcast journalism suite, student wellness center, and a Shelter Rock protective security vestibule. We’ve added counselors and social workers to help students with emotional needs—something that’s critically important right now. We’ve increased transparency, including continued remote participation in board meetings even after the state lifted that requirement.

We can do more. We can revisit foreign language instruction in the elementary schools. We must get more girls engaged in technology, including more high school girls in computer science classes. And I want to add robotics teams and a STEM lab for our budding scientists.

Manhasset traditionally sends students to great colleges. But the landscape is changing. I know first-hand from my son’s process last year. I want to work with our Guidance Department to get kids thinking about “passion projects” to enrich their experiences and help with college applications.

We’re all very fortunate to live in a phenomenal, award-winning school district. I want to get back to celebrating what makes us great, focusing on the education and well-being of our terrific kids. I will continue to work tirelessly to assure that Manhasset is a place where ALL kids can thrive academically and emotionally.

Before you cast your vote, ask yourself, are you proud of your child’s school? Are you pleased with your home value? Do you want our district to continue along a path of excellence, achievement and fiscal responsibility? Or do you believe that we need drastic change?

If you believe that we have a strong foundation and that we would benefit by listening to each other rather than talking at each other, and that we are stronger as a community when we work together for the benefit of the children, I am your candidate and I ask for your continued support.

Panzik:

I value and appreciate all my years here in Manhasset. This community is home and I only hope to have the opportunity to serve all of you and earn your trust.

I [felt] compelled to step forward and do more for my community. To be a liaison and help open pathways within the school that have up sadly grown dormant. To make sure we develop clear user-friendly communication avenues and [hold] quarterly town hall meetings.

As a board we are here to listen and serve you. I also want to work with guidance and administration to make sure any new programs and contracts that are introduced to our kids are properly vetted and more importantly, communicated to the parents.

We need to be proactive when it comes to our kids and their education, not reactive as we wait for the next shoe to fall. We need to return to civil conversations in the schools, ballfields and coffee shops. We need to get away from social media contention and actually speak [to each other] and more importantly, listen to our neighbors.

We will not always agree. However, the foundation of this community has always been the families. We need to get back to basics and open respectful lines of communication. We all want to see every kid healthy and successful.

I look forward to being a part of making that happen. I promise to be your voice and serve you and your children on my time on the board.

O’Brien Silva:

This election is about the future of our school community. Who will be the best advocate for our students, their education and the foundation for their futures? Who will be most able to work with the other board members and administration? To connect the community and define consensus and [define] a path forward that enables our schools and our kids to shine even brighter than they do today?

The board is not political nor is it all-powerful. If elected, I will help set goals, shape the budget, [support] the work of our administration and report to our taxpayers.

I will help set the tone for the culture and tenor of our school and foster respectful discourse. I will work within the scope of the board’s responsibilities and I will not infringe on parental rights and parental choice.

I will work to ensure that every student in Manhasset is nurtured, challenged. encouraged and celebrated.

Why am I running for the board? I want to make a contribution to a community. It wasn’t an easy decision. Maybe because putting my name in the hat put me at the risk of cyberbullying. It’s a disheartening reality these days, but I went ahead anyway because I know who I am and what I stand for. No falsehood spread online will change that.

I ran anyway because its your kids who inspire me every day to be a better mom, a better friend and a better member of our community. Your kids are my inspiration and what motivated me to run.

You want someone who will always look out for our children’s best interests. Who can listen to all sides and build consensus. I will be visible in the community. I’ll be available to hear your ideas and concerns and if you want someone who will serve with kindness, caring, empathy and in the spirit of collaboration, I am your candidate.

Not only do I have the right professional skill set and time, I have the passion, openness and accessibility needed and I will make it about our kids. So I ask for your support and your vote on May 17.

I remember my parents telling me the story of buying gas at Charlie Galvin’s gas station on the corner of Shelter Rock Road and Northern Boulevard when it was a two lane country road. Charlie came running out of his office yelling “They just bombed Pearl Harbor!”

I remember covering all the windows with black cloth at 4:30 p.m. every day so enemy bombers could not see the lights on the ground.

I remember my father walking from the railroad station to our home at 128 Chase Rd.. Then changing his clothes before it got dark and go to Sylvester Gardener’s farm at the end of Chase Road to work in the victory garden for the war effort to save food for the soldiers in the war.

I remember Mrs. Beckman crying when I asked her what the Gold Star flag in her window was. She was crying when she told me her son Harry was killed on D-Day and she would never see him again.

I remember Sister Rosa asking the children in class to say a prayer for Robert Munday, who was just killed in the Korean War.

I remember Mrs. Boardman asking us to be pallbearers at Davis Boardman’s funeral after he was killed in the Vietnam War.

I remember holding the rope to keep the flag arch straight while James Regan’s funeral procession went down Plandome Road.

I never had the honor of serving in the armed services, so I found it a privilege to attend the Memorial Day Parade, first as a young child with my parents and then riding my bicycle decorated in Red, White and Blue alongside the parade.

I was a proud member of Boy Scout Troop 71 and participated in the parade with my fellow scouts. The last 60 years I have marched with the Manhasset Lakeville Fire Department.

Traditionally, the event takes one hour; that is the least I can give to honor the 82 fallen heroes from Manhasset that gave their lives for our freedom.

Thank you and God bless Manhasset and God Bless America.

—Brian Kenny

About The Parade

Manhasset will host a Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 30 at 10 a.m. The parade will step off at the intersection of Plandome Road and Plandome Road Court South.

Sponsored by the American Legion Post 304, the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire/Water District Commissioners and officers of the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department.

Celebrating 102nd commencement at high school

Long after the mortarboards were tossed up in the air, marking the end of the ceremonies, the grassy area where the 102nd Manhasset High School Commencement had taken place was filled with clusters of families and friends chatting, posing for photos. Just one more snapshot. And then another.

You only graduate once, and for many, it was a chance to experience a bit more of the uniqueness that being a member of a particular class imparts. Of course, in Manhasset there is always The Frolic that follows the ceremony. The graduating class gets to mingle in an elaborately decorated gym meant to impress the visual and aural senses. It represents the last chance to gather, to spend time with their cohorts before summer and the future scatters them until the first class reunion is organized.

The graduates kicked off the milestone event by ringing a bell three times, a school tradition that honors Manhasset High School’s past, present and future graduates.

The seniors then walked down the stairs of Manhasset Secondary School for the last time to “Pomp and Circumstance.”

Class president Peter Barry opened the ceremony and the Manhasset High School symphonic orchestra performed “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

The graduates heard from a variety of speakers, including Acting Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gaurav Passi, salutatorian Evan Ginsburg, Silver M President Lukasz Mosakowski, valedictorian Dylan Wu, class co-advisers Devin Hagendorn and Karalyn Medlock and high school principal Dr. Dean Schlanger.

As with the Class of 2021, the Class of 2022 was shaped by the once-in-a-century pandemic. COVID-19 was the great disrupter, and the speakers at the ceremony made note of it.

Valedictorian Wu gave the pandemic its due, but found the silver lining, stating, “out of this adversity would come an unprecedented opportunity for growth, and I would argue that we found resilience, community and a perspective in a way we wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.”

He thanked the administrators, teachers and staff for nurturing and supporting the students, and advised, “I want you to remember and cherish all of those memories from the past four years. That way, we’ll still have a sense of home even when physically apart from one another.”

Following Wu’s speech, select senior class vocalists directed by Jared Berry performed “Seasons of Love.” In addition, the class gift was presented which included two custom signs for the school’s Senior Spa. The Senior Spa, also known as a senior privilege area, is a long-standing Manhasset tradition that is space reserved for seniors where they can enjoy lunch, do homework, relax during free periods and gather together.

In his remarks, class President Barry said, “Every Manhasset High School graduating class has its own story. COVID-19 defined this era as well as the final two-plus years of our high school careers. The Class of 2022 will be remembered primarily for what we overcame to get to this moment.”

He reminded the assembled that “the only two full years of high school we spent together as a class were our freshmen and senior years.”

Barry concluded, “The Manhasset Public Schools have laid a great foundation for us. Let’s go out and build on it.”

In his address, Salutatorian Ginsburg quoted F. Scott Fitzgerald: “I hope you make the best of it. I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people who have a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of, and if you’re not, I hope you have the courage to start over.”

Ginsburg compared his high school career to being part of the crew team, in which he was the coxswain directing the rowers.

“Whether you took part in theater, a musical group or any other sport or organization in this community, I hope you learned how important you are to your metaphorical boat and to the course you rode with your teammates,” he said. “It was the voice you developed, the drive you had and the effort you put in that has brought us to victories, yes, but also to this graduation day.”

Dr. Passi noted how quickly time passes and encouraged the students to thank their parents. He also made note of the polarizing times in which we live, pleading for tolerance and respect for differing viewpoints.

“I ask you to work hard to suspend your own certainty and the need to be right,” he told the graduates. “Embrace different points of view as opportunities for learning and growth by holding space for difference. I challenge you to always speak and listen from the heart without judgement and, importantly, remain open to outcomes that may not be your outcomes.”

He concluded, “In the end, our humanity, our dignity, and our sense of community depends on our collective capacity of joy, peace, love, hope, kindness, generosity, and faith in each other to thrive.”

Mosakowski announced the newest inductees into the Silver M Society. The society honors students who have gone above and beyond during their high school careers. This year’s inductees included seniors Evan Ginsburg, Andrew Hahn, Stanley Kong, Sophia Vlahakis and Allison Zhang. In addition, Mosakowski announced the induction of faculty member Steve Sproul for his service in the district.

Dr. Schlanger thanked each of the graduates for their patience, understanding and compassion during their sophomore, junior and senior years while the district and the world was adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged their perseverance and many achievements, while expressing how proud he was.

“Thank you for your hard work, your grit, patience and success,” he said to the graduates. “In closing, as our school motto suggests, your education has fostered your excellence and that excellence, generously shared, will rebound in your work, relationships and life. Give of your many gifts and you will receive many more in return.”

Each member of the Class of 2022 was announced at the podium where they received their diploma and were congratulated by Dr. Schlanger, Dr. Passi and board members.

In addition, four retirees were recognized for their years of service to the district. This included Deputy Superintendent for Business and Operations Rosemary Johnson, music teacher Randy Knudsen, Manhasset Secondary School Associate Principal Peter Vercessi and Shelter Rock Assistant Principal Paulette Williams.

Class co-advisor Karalyn Medlock spoke of how their senior year began with “the ransomware attack where you couldn’t even use your Chromeback or internet that yoiu’ve so dependent on. Life is full of unknowns, and often life doesn’t turn out exactly how you expected. However, it’s how you navigate these obstacles, and the skills you learn throughout the journey that make you the person that you are today.”

Fellow co-advisor Devin Hagendorn said, “Your next stage of life will also be full of new experiences, success, failures and difficult situations that you will have to navigate. However, you are lucky to have a toolbox of skills that you have learned along the way to help you climb toward success.”

The seniors moved their tassels, signifying the end of their high school careers, and tossed their caps high, marking the end of their chapter in Manhasset.

The Manhasset Press asked Schlanger to characterize the class and he replied, “It was a bunch of wonderful young men and women with innumerable accomplishments, both in and out of the classroom, and they have made the entire Manhasset community proud and they will be missed.”

He added, “They really trudged through adversity during COVID and came out stronger and more resilient. And I think their accomplishments and where they’re headed as far as college and the opportunities that they’ll have ahead will be most plentiful.”

Asked how they got through the pandemic, the principal replied, “With wonderful, supportive, loving teachers, incredible families that gave them a lot of support, leaning on one another, and resiliency. We had a good game plan, like a lot of other schools, but with a lot of big hearts and understanding and compassion.”

—Additional reporting by the Manhasset Public Schools

March 27, 1932–Jan. 3, 2022

Grace Allen Pitti passed away peacefully on January 3, 2022 at age 89 at her home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida in the presence of family.

Grace was a native New Yorker, being born in New York City on March 27, 1932, and living in various New York communities including New Rochelle, Commack, Hicksville, Manhasset, Amagansett, Bridgehampton, and Port Washington.

While working in New York City, she met and fell in love with her future husband Don. They were married in New Rochelle on August 14, 1954. Their 55-year marriage has always been considered the quintessence of devotion by their family and friends.

Grace was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, and, along with her husband, a patron of the arts and philanthropist.

Her greatest love was her family: her husband Don, who was taken before his time, daughter Gail Coon (Jerry) of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, son Robert Pitti (Anne) of Fairfax, California, grandchildren Matthew, Julie, Mark, Scott, Samantha and Joseph, and nieces and nephews.

Grace actively supported her husband’s business career, while raising. their two children, and together with her husband was involved in all of the communities where they lived. She freely gave her time to others, and loved parties, being with friends, cooking, dancing, entertaining, traveling the world with her husband, loved the theatre and opera, and was an avid reader.

Her dancing included a stint with the Radio City Rockettes.

Grace and Don travelled to many places in the world, but their most favorite place was Lake Como, Italy. She was an avid fan of her children’s (and later her grandchildren’s) athletic endeavors. She was also a devoted fan of the New York Mets and the New York Glants football team.

Throughout her life, she was engaged with everything around her, always intrigued with what was going on with her family and with the world. Her unconditional love of family, kindness and generosity, and her authenticity and innate attribute of speaking the truth, will be remembered by all. As family and friends can attest, she was not one to mince words or to be trifled with.

We will miss her dearly, and she will always be in our hearts. A private memorial service will be held at a later date for family and friends. In lleu of flowers, people are Invited to make a donation to the AlphaOmega Miracle Home, St. Augustine, Florida for abused women, where her daughter Gail is a volunteer (www.aomh.org).

—Submitted by the family of Grace Allen Pitti

Manhasset burglaries, car thefts raise concerns

You live in what your believe is a safe, gated community in Manhasset. You and your wife take the dog for an evening walk. Your children and their visiting friends are at home, socializing. The house alarm is off, of course. What you don’t know is that a burglar, using what police believe are specialty boots, has climbed the stucco siding and reached the balcony leading to the second floor master bedroom. He jimmies the lock on the sliding door, flips the lights on and starts looking for valuables. You get back to the house, and as your wife climbs the stairs, announces that she’s going to bed, probably startling the burglar. She opens the bedroom door and notices the lights are on. It was then, you presume, that the unwelcome visitor scampered down or jumped from the balcony and fled.

Dozens of people listened with rap attention as a man related the details of a brazen burglary at what he believed was an inviolable place.

“I’m a very private person, so I can’t believe I’m telling you this experience I had,” said the resident. At his request, we have omitted his name.

“In 17 minutes of our walking the dog and walking back there was a burglary,” he summed up. “We have [the burglar] on camera. The detectives at the Sixth Precinct are great. They are trying to find him and keep on calling me with updates.”

He continued, “He took the jewelry—okay it doesn’t matter. My daughter was sleeping in the adjacent room (there were gasps and murmurs in the audience). I don’t know what would have happened if [we had encountered] this brazen person dressed in [some kind of] uniform with what they’re telling me is gloves—because there were no fingerprints. I don’t know what would have happened. I’m nervous for the children, not just [in our] community, but all the communities. You could do something to me, but don’t do anything to my children. We are very shaken up. Yes, we didn’t have the alarm on, but why would we think to have the alarm on while we’re in the house, with so many activities going on?”

He urged the attendees to keep their alarms on, lock the doors and keep everything safe and well-lit.

The occasion was a June 14 community awareness/crime prevention meeting hosted by the Nassau County Police Department at the large meeting room in the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department Company No. 2 headquarters.

It featured talks by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder.

Inspector Harun “Hodge” Begis of the Sixth Precinct, whose headquarters were a stone’s throw away, was also on hand.

Manhasset resident Joe LaPadula organized the event after a number of break-ins and a general perception that crime was rising.

“People were coming to me, scared in their own homes,” he told the Manhasset Press, mentioning Ring videos that residents put up on social media showing attempted burglaries and car thefts.

“I’m a concerned resident, a father of three,” LaPadula went on, thanking the fire department and Chief Greg Weisburd “for hosting us on such a short notice.”

“I’d also like to thank the Nassau County Police Department, one of the finest in the nation,” he said in his introduction,

“Wait until the evening is done,” joked Commissioner Ryder to laughter.

The room erupted in applause when LaPadula revealed that the commissioner was celebrating his 60th birthday that day.

Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips of Flower Hill said she would be the timekeeper and try to keep the meeting to an hour.

“The Sixth Precinct has offered to stay afterwards and answer your questions privately for those of you not comfortable raising your hands and talking about it in public,” Phillips stated. “We’re going to let Commissioner Ryder get home because he might want to do some celebrating for his birthday.”

Phillips also said that he evening would not have happened without LaPadula, who took the initiative.

“The biggest job the government could do is to make you feel safe. And somehow, for whatever reasons, this is not the case and we’ll let the commissioner address this,” Phillips said.

She hoped that when residents left the meeting they would understand the issues and gain more confidence in what is happening.

Phillips then introduced Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jen DeSena, who welcomed mayors and trustees from the Manhasset area. She also noted that County Treasurer David Chang of Manhasset and former Senator Jack Martins were also in the audience.

Commish Speaks

“We’re here today to talk about the crime issues up here,” Ryder pronounced. “Some of it is perceived and some of it is real. That story is real. That is a real burglary that happened (related by the resident minutes earlier).”

He said that the Sixth Precinct used to average about 500 burglaries a year, and to date, there had 34, “so we’ve gotten them way down and under control.”

The commissioner talked about what he labeled a “Chilean Burglary Crew” that operated on the target-rich North Shore several years ago. Their advent coincided with bail reform that was passed by the overwhelmingly Democratic state legislature in 2020.

Though he affirmed, “I’m not talking politics here. I give you facts,” there is no doubt that Ryder, like much of law enforcement and Republicans in general, blamed the reforms for taking away cash bail/jail remainder from judges’ discretion for a long list of crimes.

“A burglary [in the] third [degree], a residential burglary. without any aggravating factors—no violence, no weapons,” Ryder explained. “That individual goes in and breaks into your house and steals what they steal. It doesn’t matter the value—if they take a dollar or they take a million dollars, it’s the same crime. We arrest them and they go in front of a judge and the judge cannot hold them on bail and they walk out. That’s a problem for us. A big problem.”

The commissioner did note that reforms to the law in the 2021 legislative session did give some latitude back to the judges.

He said police and prosecutors used a loophole in the law in which they charged suspects with attempted burglary, which was a bailable offense and so managed to get members of the Chilean Crew held in jail.

“They also got them federally charged and the federal court just came down with a ruling—30 years to life,” he related, which drew applause.

“The next problem is stolen cars,” Ryder said. “There’s been five stolen cars in Manhasset since the beginning of the year. [In] all five of those stolen cars the keys were left in the car. We saw an uptick.”

The commissioner said his department met with area mayors and DeSena, and the county executive was at a couple of town hall meetings. Police also set up roadblocks where they handed out pamphlets to educate the public.

Ryder thought all these efforts have worked, that the pace of car thefts has slowed countywide.

The commissioner also criticized another modification in state criminal law, the “Raise the Age” act, in which 16- and 17-year-olds are no longer treated as adults for many crimes, but as juveniles. They are processed in family courts, which means they face lesser punishments and consequences. As a result, the same people keep on committing the crimes, he claimed.

At a press conference in April, the commissioner spoke of his department receiving reports from East Hills, Flower Hill, Manhasset, Greenvale and Plandome of suspicious males attempting to enter vehicles. He said many stolen vehicles have been recovered in Newark, where the thieves take the cars to be sold, used for drag racing and to commit other crimes.

“[These] kids drive like absolute lunatics. They don’t fear nothing,” he said. “We’re not chasing them. We’re not running over your son or daughter for a car. It’s not going to happen. I won’t allow my police department to do it.”

At the Manhasset meeting, he detailed what happened when his officers attempted to stop three suspects in a stolen Mercedes who were arrested at Exit 33 of the Long Island Expressway (Lakeville Road) on April 24.

“That night, we pushed the envelope and what did I get? Five wrecked cars, five police officers in the hospital. Some of them have not come back to work since then,” Ryder observed. “That night alone we were down almost $200,000 in police cars—$200,000 in taxpayers money that I will never get back. Five cops that are injured in the hospital. Some of them have not come back, and I don’t know if they are coming back.”

At a press conference following the incident, the commissioner admitted that some of the injuries could be career-ending for his officers.

“I need help,” the commissioner said. “Ninety-five percent of the cars that are stolen you’re leaving your keys in the car and it’s unlocked. The bad guy knows to walk up to the car and jiggle the handle. That’s what you see on Ring doorbells.”

He also urged attendees with Ring cameras to sign up with law enforcement so that police can use the videos captured in them.

“We start to look for the patterns and where they go,” he went on. “It helps us arrest these people.”

Sometimes, the thieves push the garage opener in the stolen car, open the garage door and steal another car which has the keys in it.

“They’re not hot-wiring cars. They’re not shipping them overseas,” Ryder pointed out. “These are not organized crime crews that we knew from the ’80s and ’90s. These are 17-year-old brazen kids and know they’re going to get away with it and they’re going to run because they don’t care. And that’s what we’re up against.”

He added, “So what are we doing to help you? We’ve been educating you. I’ve said it a thousand times. Please take the keys in your house. I beg you.”

The Americana

The famous Manhasset shopping strip is “the number one hit place for most of your larcenies,” according to Ryder, adding that “since the beginning of the year we’ve arrested 33 people. It’s a larceny, it’s not a grand larceny, so they get out and they’re going to come back.”

Ryder said he and Sixth Precinct leadership met and had a discussion with the Americana ownership and the management.

“I’m on a first-name basis with most of the stores in there. [Owner] Mark Udell probably calls me five or six times a week from London Jewelers,” he went on. “We’re out there. We’ve done great work, great enforcement—that’s why you see cop cars.”

Ryder said his department has recovered several guns out of the Americana and put extra enforcement there, including what he called “an eye in the sky,” a crane from which an officer can observe the area.

Blakeman stated, “Let me tell you what was going on in the Americana and is still going on. Shoplifting is out of control—that’s why the police are there every day. I spoke to one shop owner in Manhasset who told me they don’t call the police anymore because it’s bad for business. They said, ‘You know what? I’d rather take the loss. I call the police, they come. Now the police are there for half an hour doing their investigation. Nobody’s going to walk in my store while the police are there.’ Those are the crazy things that are going on.”

Some Questions

A resident asked how many of the burglaries involved the use of a weapon.

“Zero,” responded Inspector Begis.

“They know that,” Ryder said of the burglars—introducing weapons increases the seriousness of the charge and lowers their chance of getting cashless bail.

Another resident talked about reallocating resources, asking about road patrols.

“In Nassau County there are 177 cars on patrol every day,” the commissioner said, adding that it’s more than neighboring Suffolk, which is three times as large. “The problem is I can’t cover every street at every second. I talked to the county executive and he said we’re going to be putting extra resources up here. We’ve done that the last five or six weeks and the [crime] numbers are way down. But it’s not sustainable because there’s crime everywhere else.”

A man wanted to know what to do if he encountered a burglar, making note that New York is not a state with a “stand your ground” law allowing wide latitude in self defense.

Rider mentioned the Fourth Amendment, stating, “When they come into your home you’re allowed to protect yourself, but you have to use equal or a little bit more force. You can’t shoot the guy sticking his head inside the window and you have to have a licensed firearm on top of that. The whole Second Amendment—I’m not touching that. But you have the right to defend yourself.”

“What about if they’re outside on the patio?” Ryder was asked.

“Call 911,” he responded.

Another resident mentioned British TV crime dramas showing the successful widespread use of closed-circuit cameras that are common, especially in London.

“Is there something similar, and why are we not catching people using technology?” he wanted to know.

Ryder said he was skeptical of the quality of video cameras in public venues, saying the video was subpar and unhelpful when it came to zooming in.

More promising was that the county executive had invested $300,0000 recently in more license plate readers for the patrol cars.

“Several of your villages have invested in license plate readers,” he continued. “All of that data gets sent to us. We pay for the storage and we pay to analyze it. That’s how we catch them.”

He added, “The best cameras in the business, and we’ve invested a lot in them, is your doorbell Ring. The quality is unbelievable. It’s an amazing tool.”

The Final Word

Though at one point Ryder declared that “Crime is way down,” emphasizing by lowering his arm toward the floor, this was only true in the historical sense.

“In the Sixth Precinct, we’ve had 34 [burglaries] year to date. On average, we used to do 70 to 80 a week here on the North Shore,” he emphasized. “We’ve really shut it down, but it’s starting to creep back up. You hear the county executive say crime is on the rise. He is 100 percent right. From where we were, we are starting to lose ground and we’re losing that ground because of bail reform, because of Raise the Age. These issues affect us in policing. Again, it’s not a political statement, it’s a fact.”

He continued, “We’re trying to get in front of it, but we need help. We need to work together as a community. We need to do exactly what we’re doing here. When we have this dialogue, we hear your concerns and we hear what needs to be taken care of.”

When another resident asked about bail reform and who was responsible for it, Ryder turned to Blakeman, who was sitting at the table with elected officials and Sixth Precinct leaders.

The county executive strode up to the podium and joked, “Commission Ryder, you are dismissed because I don’t want your wife to make you retire. So thank you so much and get home.”

As the commissioner made his way out of the large room to spend his birthday with his family, the executive praised his department head’s dedication, wondering “when the guy gets to sleep.”

Blakeman said it was a state problem, not a county problem, and urged attendees, “until you are fed up, until you had enough, it’s going to be very difficult for us to change the culture in the state. I ran on the platform that we have to change crazy laws in Albany.”

The executive added, “We’re hiring more police officers, we’re investing in technology and we’re being proactive, but our police officers are handcuffed—pun intended—because they arrest these criminals and then what happens? They’re back out on the street and now they’re more brazen than ever.”

He noted that for 200-plus years in this country, judges had to consider only two criteria when setting bail: whether someone was a flight risk or a danger to the community. And that was the judges’ provenance. In New York State, he charged, the legislature has violated the separation of powers by taking over the role of the Judiciary.

“Let me tell you what we are doing,” Blakeman said. “I told Commissioner Ryder that I want to make it as unpleasant as possible—according to the law—to those who commit crimes in Nassau County. In other words, we’re not going to rush them to court. We’re going to take our time within the time allowable by law. We want to let them know that this is not a place where you want to commit a crime.”

He added, “We’re going to invest in more police officers. We had another [police] academy [class]. So that’s 167 new police officers we’re going to have. We’re investing in the technology, but remember one thing about technology—it does not prevent the crime. It’s an investigative tool, it just lets us make the arrest.”

Blakeman re-emphasized that his and DeSena’s and Phillips’ number one job was to make sure the residents were safe and secure. But they needed help, and urged attendees to educate themselves and vote for politicians who backed law enforcement.

“I want to assure you that I believe the police department is doing a great job, they’re working hard,” the executive said. “We’re spending the money on personnel and we’re spending the money on technology. We’re going to try something a little different. We’re going to start Operation Hercules, where we’re going to have patrol cars with their lights on patrolling all throughout Nassau County on an ongoing basis for no other reason then to let the criminals know that we’re around. It’s something they did in the City of New York to combat terrorism right after 9/11 and we think that it will help here in Nassau County.”

As the meeting came to an end, Phillips reminded attendees that Inspector Begis had offered to stay and respond to questions in a more private setting. A number of residents took advantage of the opportunity.

Manhasset—All Other Crime

Jan. 1–June 13, 2022

Petit Larceny…………………………………..51

Identity Theft………………………………….15

Larceny From Auto……………………………12

Criminal Mischief………………………………10

Aggravated Harassment……………………..10

Criminal Contempt…………………………….7

Possession of a Forged Instrument…………4

Possession of a Weapon………………………4

Criminal Possession of

a Controlled Substance……………………….3

Assault…………………………………………..3

Criminal Impersonation……………………….3

Criminal Mischief to Auto……………………..2

Reckless Endangerment………………………2

Grand Larceny-Motor Vehicle………………..1

Coercion…………………………………………1

Obstruction of Breathing……………………..1

Sexual Abuse…………………………………..1

Unlawful Surveillance…………………………1

DWI………………………………………………1

Scheme to Defraud……………………………1

Bias Incident……………………………………1

Forgery…………………………………………..1

Menacing………………………………………..1

Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle……………….1

Bail Jumping…………………………………….1

Fraud……………………………………………..1

TOTAL…………………………………………….138

Source: Nassau County Police Department

Remembering a life cut short

There was only one possible place to memorialize Kevin Driscoll Jr. And with all due respect, it wasn’t at the Manhasset Secondary School.

Family and friends gathered at the school district’s Memorial Field, adjacent to Memorial Drive, on a recent drizzly Wednesday afternoon. They were there to remember the 17-year-old member of the Manhasset Class of 2020, who died of a drug overdose on May 1, 2020, weeks before he was to graduate.

It was, in a sense, the send-off he did not get when the pandemic locked everything down, including funeral gatherings.

Kevin Driscoll Sr. recalled when Secondary School Principal Dr. Dean Schlanger approached him with an offer to put a memorial bench on school grounds, to be paid by the Class of 2020.

“But that wasn’t my son,” Driscoll said. “He wasn’t an academic kid. My son was more associated with [Memorial] Field. He played lacrosse on that field. He played basketball on [the courts]. He met his friends and socialized there.”

He added, “When I walked the field and I reflected on it, I noticed that the name of the field is Memorial Field and every person who grew up in Manhasset the last 100 years has had an athletic event on that field. The irony is the last time they did a memorial there was in 1921, for World War 1 returning veterans.”

Driscoll made a counter offer to the principal: “Why don’t we put a memorial there? That’s what the field is for. I thought it was better suited to who my son was.”

Schlanger, along with Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gaurav Passi, made the short walk to the field to join in the ceremony. The principal hugged Driscoll, as did other friends of Kevin Jr. who began drifting in.

There were people like Tony Major and Dan Brown, who, like Kevin Sr., attended nearby St. Mary’s High School. Brown and Major played lacrosse there and Brown said of an encounter against Manhasset, “We got our asses kicked (chuckling).”

Robert “Bobby A” Anastasia, the “super fan” and volunteer of Manhasset athletics, was on hand.

“I knew him very well,” he said of Kevin Jr. “I’ve been good friends with his father for a long time. Kevin is a good man. His wife Victoria is also great.”

Of Kevin Jr. Anastasia said, “He was a very nice young man with a great attitude toward life. Always smiling. It’s sad to see him leave the world at such a young age. He had a lot going for him. It’s a shame his life was cut so short.”

Driscoll and Schlanger spoke as the assembly gathered by the memorial.

“He loved his friends. He loved his classmates,” Kevin Sr. said. “He loved to see you guys do well. He enjoyed all of your successes. He would always come home and say, ‘Dad, so and so did this.’ He was always so proud of all you guys. That’s the true essence of who he was, so this field represents more of who he was than putting the bench closer to the school. That’s as honest as I can [get] (chuckling).”

The principal said, “Kevin shared with me that when Kevin was a little boy this is where he stood to watch Kevin play on this field.”

He continued, “Obviously, it breaks my heart to be here. I wish we were here under different circumstances.”

Schlanger called the Driscolls “a special family who try to find positives in everything. Having [this memorial] is the least we could do and having his buddies here really speaks about Kevin and what he was all about.”

Schlanger said he first met Kevin Jr. when he entered seventh grade and watched him blossom.

Pointing to the photograph he said, “That’s the Kevin that I remember. That’s the Kevin that I will keep in my mind. The boy who blossomed into being a beautiful young man. Staying out of trouble, being productive, going to BOCES, doing the school work. School wasn’t easy for Kevin—we knew that. But he really came to understand who he was and what he wanted to do. It breaks everyone’s heart that he’s not here, but the least we could do was something beautiful for Kevin so that others could see.”

He then led the assembled in a moment of silence.

Driscoll said he worked with the district and Schlanger to develop the Kevin Driscoll Memorial Scholarship, first awarded in 2021. At the recent commencement, 2022 grads Michaela Buscher and Jacqueline Sarai Mejia were the recipients.

“He was known for his contagious smile and perseverance in the face of adversity,” read the scholarship citation. “This scholarship is awarded to a student who is well-rounded, a friend to many, and respected by their teachers and peers.”

The scholarship is worth $1,000. To donate, contact Driscoll at KDriscoll@feilorg.com.

“For all you guys who graduated, I got to look behind the scene at how Dr. Schlanger operated,” Driscoll said. “You guys are very blessed. It’s a much better education program than when I [went to school]. The Driscoll family thanks the Manhasset High School class of 2020, Dr. Schlanger and his staff.”

Anne Voelker of St. Mary’s CYO told Driscoll, “I’d like to thank you for continuing to help out with CYO basketball, coaching two teams this past year. I appreciate it—it’s hard to come and do that.”

Driscoll told the Manhasset Press, “Anne helped to establish the Kevin Driscoll Memorial Basketball Game. My son’s former basketball team plays my current team. This game is played over the Christmas break, when everyone is home from college.”

Tom Major noted that “the circumstances of the loss were so devastating. You and Victoria were put through the mill. It’s awesome how you’re able to stand up here today and have this service. You’re an outstanding couple and God bless you for raising your daughter.”

The couple’s daughter, Olivia Rose, graduated from Manhasset this year and will be attending Florida Atlantic College in Boca Raton.

“The youth of Manhasset are so talented,” Driscoll said. “They’re more talented than any of us ever were. And you guys are going to be so successful—that I can clearly see.”

Grief Into Action

“The pain never goes away,” Driscoll admitted. “But there still is hope. My son was well respected by his peers. He had a lot of friends. It’s a comfort seeing the kids knowing that they see me and I know they’re thinking of my son. But they’re always excited to see me and that brings me joy.”

His coaching CYO teams in the winter enables him to maintain connections with those who knew and played with his son, who was on the lacrosse and football teams.

“Most of those kids go to Manhasset High school. Most of them play football, lacrosse, baseball and soccer,” Driscoll said. “I know the game of basketball pretty well. And they are good athletes and I know how to coach and my objective is to have fun.”

“The help of friends and community got you through the horror of losing a son?” he was asked.

“One hundred percent,” he replied. “The community has reached out and you couldn’t have asked for a more giving, caring, thoughtful community. And Manhasset High School, particularly Dr. Schlanger, has been exceedingly comforting.”

Driscoll understands why people would think that drug use/overdose might indicate a failure of character, but believes “they should get a little bit more educated. What they don’t understand is the drug situation right now is more deep-seated and widespread than ever before. There are more than 2,500 overdoses a week in the United States from fentanyl.”

Kevin Jr. was in fact the victim of a fentanyl overdose. Driscoll said that if it could happen to his son, it could happen to anyone.

Of his son, he said, “He was very mechanical, so I enrolled him in the BOCES program. He was on his way to becoming a master technician with Mercury [outboard motors]. They were going to send him away for [training]. [A] master technician is a lost art. You can’t find anyone to work on your boat. There’s only one guy in the North Shore that does it. They’re very hard to find.”

In addition, the MTA wanted to hire Kevin Jr. as an apprentice in their engine maintenance department.

“His objective was to [work for the MTA] for 25 years and retire with a pension, and then he was going to work on the boats on the side. He would have had a very nice lifestyle,” Driscoll observed. “And then he was planning on enrolling with Empire State College to get a degree while he was working.”

All this reflecting on “what ifs” and a life ended prematurely leads Driscoll to affirm, “I try not to make this religious, but my deal with God is, He’s going to get me through this, but He’s also going to use me as a tool to fight this drug problem. Which is why I coach so many basketball teams.”

Next outdoor event to take place July 24

The bonds of community were evident on a gorgeous July Sunday afternoon on Plandome Road in Manhasset. The Manhasset Chamber of Commerce organized its second Al Fresco afternoon of the year (the June 26 event was cancelled by rain), closing the south portion of the main drag for outdoor dining, music and other activities.

Children played “street” tic-tac-toe and cornhole and enjoyed crafts—all courtesy of Douglas Ellliman. The Traci Clinton Conway Team/Compass sponsored a blow-up water slide that kept children entertained and cooled. The chamber itself hosted a rock painting workshop.

The Gift of Life International, under the rubric of the Rotary Club of Manhasset, presented information on how it sponsors life-saving heart procedures for children around the globe. Its founder, Manhasset’s own Robbie Donno, was on hand to talk about its mission and help raise funds for its cause. In its 47 years, it has helped more than 43,000 children in 80 countries.

Project Help Long Island also had a booth, dispensing information about its mission to ensure mental health and addiction services.

Vintage car lovers could get up close with glass and metal masterpieces, thanks to the Elite Automotive Repair Car Show.

Music was provided by the Glenn Strange Band, guitarist Raffi, DJ Rad and the County Line Band.

Outdoor dining participants were Pearl East, Buttercooky Bakery & Cafe, Villa Milano, Herb & Olive Market and For Five Coffee.

And this being a chamber event, it gave numerous area business the opportunity to introduce themselves to visiting residents while providing giveaways, raffles and other specials.

The next Al Fresco will be held Sunday, July 24 on North Plandome Road. which will be closed from Webster Avenue/Colonial Parkway to Maple Place/Hillside Avenue.

Entertainment: 4 to 5 p.m.: DJ Rad (Manhasset Cinemas); 4 to 5 p.m.: School of Rock (Starbucks); 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.: Liam Morrisey (Publicans); 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Red White and Blues Band (Gino’s); 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.: Charlotte March (Publicans); 6:30 to 9 p.m.: Allen Gogarty Band (Manhasset Cinemas).

Outdoor dining options: Greens Irish Pub, Pita Station, Gino’s Manhasset, Pho Manhasset, Publicans and Carvel.

There will also be a long list of businesses and organizations with giveaways, raffles, wine and food tastings.

North Shore University Hospital will host a free blood pressure screening and an ambulance for kids to explore.

Among the non-profits will be Manhasset’s own One Love Outreach, which aids the homeless, the Tower Foundation of Manhasset, which supports the Manhasset schools, and the service organization Kiwanis Club of Manhasset/Port Washington.

For more information visit www.shopmanhasset.com.

Supervisor calls for operational audit by county comptroller

On July 11, Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jen DeSena officially asked Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips and her department to undertake an operational audit of the town’s embattled Building Department.

“The building department has been deeply entrenched in questionable ethics and controversy for over 15 years now and these issues are firmly rooted in the culture of the department,” the supervisor charged at a press conference.

She began by noting that reforming the building department has been one of her top priorities.

“As any town resident can tell you that, when dealing with the building department, trying to get a permit for even the simplest of construction will almost always result in a multi-month delay,” DeSena said. “The building department has been an ineffectual mess for more than 15 years and it’s time we stopped paying lip service to the problem. Instead. we must be willing to consider every possible way fix the problem.”

She added, “For the past six months, my staff and I have reviewed the operations of the department and have found a deeply flawed, scandal-plagued department that continually fails our residents and business owners, earning it the [reputation] as the worst on Long Island. Changing the building department is desperately needed. No more band-aids or quick fixes. What is really needed is true systemic change.”

DeSena noted that her first proposed reform of the department had been rejected by the 4-3 Democratic majority on the town board in May. It aimed to reverse a provision in the town code put in place in 2007. It gave the supervisor and councilmembers the ability to override the building commissioner’s rejection of a request for an expedited review of a building permit.

“This would have helped streamline operations and abandon needless and ethically questionable interference by individual elected officials,” DeSena asserted. “This was to shift the accountability back to the building commissioner, where it belongs. Unfortunately, although our residents and building commissioner overwhelmingly supported it, my proposal was defeated by the majority councilmembers who opposed the measure.”

Democratic councilmembers Veronica Lurvey and Mariann Dalimonte stood on either side of the supervisor—a registered Democrat who ran on the Republican line—as she argued her proposal would have bought the first substantive change to the building department in a number of years.

DeSena expressed disappointment that the majority opposed reforms “and lacked the courage to do what’s right for the residents and business owners. As I continue to fight to pass reform measures it’s become crystal clear—from the town board to the building department—that this is a town that is resistant to change.”

She said that no previous administration had called for such an audit, and “it’s something that should have been done long ago. An impartial reassessment by an outside agency has been needed for a very long time, and I believe this is the only way forward to implement meaningful change to improve operations for our residents and businesses owners.”

She added, “Mismanagement of department operations and any potential fiscal irregularity must be identified and addressed. It’s time for the town to stop pretending that the problems with our building department do not exist. We must open our doors be totally transparent and shed much-needed light on the problems that truly ail it.”

The supervisor was counting on the audit to identify the needed fixes to repair the department’s reputation and put an end to it being “synonymous with a severe backlog scandal and controversies.”

DeSena hoped to transform it “into an efficient and well-run building department.”

Democratic Response

Lurvey said she welcomed the audit and looked forward to its findings.

Referring to the DeSena administration’s review of the building department, Lurvey stated, “I also look forward to hearing all the details of this review, along with any findings and recommendations that have resulted from it. I hope all of the review documents will be shared with her colleagues on the council and made public today.”

The District 4 councilwoman pointed out that since joining the town board in 2019, the board and former Supervisor Judi Bosworth had implemented changes to the department, including additional staffing and extended hours.

“Perhaps the greatest upgrade was implementing the first phase of the Citizenserve software platform which we launched in November 2020, during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Lurvey observed. “By allowing building department applications and supporting documents to be submitted online, the town helped residents stay safe while increasing efficiency.”

She added, “I’ve been told that preliminary statistics indicated improvements in response times and approval processes from the building department.”

Lurvey urged residents to access the Citizenserve portal at www.myTONH.com.

“I look forward to seeing the results of this audit as there is always room for improvement, be it financial with the help of the comptroller, or operationally based on the decisions we make as town board members,” Lurvey concluded.

Dalimonte also welcomed the audit, and added, “We also need an operational assessment of the building department. In April and again yesterday I called on the supervisor to establish a building department task force that would consist of residents, would consist, architects, engineers, contractors, electricians, plumbers, as well as real estate attorneys, to help us with the operational functions of the building department. We need to ensure that their processes are simple and easy so new businesses can open and thrive, and residents can alter their homes quickly and professionally. This is the way the town can improve the building department, streamline town government, and increase accountability.”

Dalimonte joined Lurvey in asking DeSena to submit any findings from what the supervisor said was a “thorough review” of building department operations.

“As always, I remain open to discussing these and other ideas with the supervisor at her convenience,” Dalimonte said. “Also, at the June board meeting, the board voted for monthly reports to be provided by the building department so we can review and analyze data and statistics on a regular basis.”

According to data provided by the town, the building department employs 52 people and its 2022 adopted budget was $4,514,253, up from the 2019 figure of $4,010,779. The salary line has increased $685,539 from 2020 to 2022. About 8,000 permits have been processed over the last year for what are called “big ticket items” such as construction.

Other Voices

Comptroller Phillips, in a statement, said, “The Office of the Nassau County Comptroller is in receipt of a letter from Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena in which Supervisor DeSena requests an audit of the town’s building department. The Comptroller’s Office has a process in place for the independent review of requests for audits and has commenced this process.”

Building Commissioner John Niewender, in a Facebook comment under a Town of North Hempstead post, stated, “As Commissioner of this Building Department let it be clear I welcome such audits and investigations. Allegations of corruption are very serious and we’re confident there are no such scenarios.”

Other Facebook comments:

Dan Purcell: “Thank you for taking action, this is long overdue. The building department unnecessarily costs residents and builders thousands of dollars with zero accountability.”

Susan Susie Sue Brassill: “Great news! I’m sure they will identify much that needs to be improved.”

Heather Jancovic-Birong: “Finally! Thank you. We spoke about this at meet the candidates. It’s a disaster over there.”

Paul Riedman: “Excellent idea. When you have a full view of the situation is when you can see everything clearly. I’m sure there will be some interesting information revealed.”

Dominick D’Alonzo: “Well done and long overdue. Keep up the great work.”

Claude Birong: “Thank god! It takes two years or more for simple permits. Meanwhile, one block over it takes two weeks for the same permits.”

Joseph Barry: “The building department scandal was so long ago and it’s unfair of you to constantly attack this one department.”

Manhasset Lacrosse Hall of Fame inducts six more to glory

Earlier this year, the Manhasset Lacrosse Hall of Fame (MLHOF) held its 33rd induction ceremony at the Plandome Country Club. Thanks to COVID, the fundraiser was not held last year during its traditional first Thursday in May, but instead was moved to last September. The evening was judged a great success. “Not only did we honor six outstanding lacrosse players, but we also raised over $33,000 for the scholarships of our beloved Ryan Kiess, Michael and James Farrell, graduates of Manhasset, whose lives were cut short by a tragic accident in July 2021,” the website noted. “We witnessed the outpouring of love and support.”

The Class of 2022 consists of:

• E. Ward Bitter III, presented by Ward’s father, Ward Bitter Jr.

• Melissa Buttles Henne, presented by coach Pam Monfort and accepted by her mom, Sandy

• Sean Denihan, presented by Sean’s father, Dan Denihan Sr.

• Mike Kellerman, presented by son and MLHOF member Teddy Kellerman

• Halle Majorana, presented by coach Danielle Gallagher

• Ryan Miller, presented by Ryan’s father-in-law, Dan Denihan Sr.

Tom Raleigh gave the welcome. At the dinner, the following awards were also presented:

Harry Baugher Award: Introduced by Kathy Baugher and Whitney Baugher Godfrey and presented by boys varsity coach Keith Cromwell to Joe Terenzi and girls varsity coach Meg Clarke to Christina Petras.

According to the citation, it is “awarded annually to a Manhasset senior lacrosse player, male and female, whose qualities include sportsmanship, leadership, teamwork, team spirit, tenacity, sacrifice, and love of the game. This scholarship honors the memory of the late W. Harry Baugher and Harry L. Baugher, who did so much for the young athletes of Manhasset. The necessary qualifications of this award are the same ideals both coaches believed in and stressed to the PAL/PBC players that they coached. Their passion and commitment to all athletic competition will never be forgotten.”

Bill Miller presented Raissa Petracca with the Angela Miller Memorial Award. According to the citation, “Angela raised 11 children, all of whom participated in the Manhasset PAL program. She attended virtually every lacrosse game that each of them played, both in high school and college. Angela was a pillar of strength and encouragement to her children. This award is bestowed on a mother in the Manhasset community who has encouraged and supported their children and others and has an impact on the youth of the community.”

Here are summaries of the citations, with Manhasset High School class year in parenthesis:

Halle Majorana (2012)

As one of the youngest inductees, Halle’s remarkable career at Manhasset has earned her an immediate induction into the Hall of Fame. In addition to lacrosse, she was a varsity soccer three-year starter and varsity basketball three-year starter, awarded the MVP for the Barbara Hoffman Tournament and All-County her senior year. Her lacrosse accomplishments:

• All-American for three years, four-time All-County, two-time Newsday All-Long Island

• Picked to the Long Island Metro First Team for the Schoolgirls’ Division for the National Tournament, and was selected for the LI Under Armor Team

• Played for Long Island Liberty Lacrosse

• National champion at the University of Maryland her soph year, but transferred to Syracuse

• Two-time Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association All-American, with first team honors in 2015

• All-Atlantic Coast Conference First Team in both 2015 and 2016

• Scored 91 points as a junior, ranking 5th nationally, and 70 points her senior year, and was named to the Tewaaraton Award Watch List

• Earned a Bachelor of Science degree in child family studies in 2016, and earned All-ACC Academic Team honors three times during her career

• Joined the Villanova coaching staff in the fall of 2017, where she assisted in all facets of the program

• Began her professional career playing for the Women’s Professional Lacrosse League with the Upstate Pride. The league has since changed to the Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse, which played its first season last summer—catch the games on CBS.

Halle’s coach, Danielle Gallagher, knows her hunger of lacrosse; “To be able to coach a player with so much passion, I can resonate with that pride. Halle is unique. She’s got an amazing first step, her footwork is unmatched, and her shots have been drilled and practiced. She never shows a dominant hand. She’ll take a defender equally strong with both hands, and her behind-the-back shot, is perfection’”

Melissa Buttles Henne (1993)

Her induction into the MLHOF is long overdue. Melissa earned seven varsity letters, in field hockey, basketball and lacrosse in the spring.

•Lead scorer in field hockey, winning county championship in 1991, All-County as a senior

• Two-year basketball starter, winning county title in 1991 for coach Chuck Collyer

• Brothers Jason and Roger are MLHOF members

• Three-year varsity lacrosse starter in every game

• Led the team in scoring all three years, accumulating 83 goals and 114 asists.

• All-County and All-Division honors and represented Manhasset three times on the National Schoolgirls Team, competing against other national districts as part of United States Women’s Lacrosse Association.

• Played on the Princeton 1994 national championship team, but an injury cut her career short

• Taught social studies and English through Teach for America

• Attended graduate school at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs, and worked in Education Research and policy in the Bay area. Started a new job on May 1.

• Lives in Ross, CA, with her husband, Colin, and 13-year-old son Finn, who loves golf. As Melissa explained, at least he loves a game with a “ball and a stick.”

Melissa is remembered by coach Pam Monfort as a “fierce competitor. She would come around the back of the cage, pause, and either kept pursuing to goal or pass to a teammate cutting down field. Melissa was such a strong asset to the team in every possible way. She never complained about the running, she never balked at drills and skills—she invited the rigorous training, as she excelled and got better with every opportunity. She was a true team player and was always willing to be coached.”

Mike Kellerman, Service

Dad, husband, friend and grandfather. Devoted, determined, instinctive, innovative and a leader. Came to Manhasset via Port Washington in the ’70s, when life was simpler, a graduating class size was about 150, and lacrosse was continuing to delight the Manhasset community.

It was in 1978 that Mike watched his first lacrosse game ever. Mike had the opportunity to watch the first “Lacrosse Day of Champions” game, where co-captain Bobby Hendrickson (MLHOF ’89), a senior on an undefeated Cornell NCAA 1977 champion, (guided by former Manhasset coach Richie Moran) played against Johns Hopkins with Manhasset grads Scott Baugher and Barney Fields. It was “love at first sight” for Mike.

Manhasset Board of Education Trustee Helen Conte welcomed Mike to Manhasset and told him “he needed to get involved.” This led him to the Manhasset Booster Club. The great dads of the time—Bill Donohue, Don Pitti, Larry Keogh, Peter Kenny, Ken Molloy, Joe Fields and of course, Whitey Hendrickson—welcomed him with open arms.

These Manhasset lacrosse “gurus” brought to Manhasset a game pitting the NCAA men’s lacrosse champs against a willing visiting team. The goal was to bring a great college matchup which followed a spectacular Manhasset home game. It allowed college coaches to scout Long Island players, as club teams and tournaments did not exist then.

Kellerman became the president of the Booster Club during 1986 and 1987, and with responsibility and tradition, became the chairperson of the Lacrosse Day of Champions in 1988 and 1989. During those years, Manhasset hosted phenomenal teams from North Carolina, Johns Hopkins and Syracuse.

For those who remember, the Lacrosse Day of Champions was one of the greatest days for Manhasset lacrosse. The money raised was used to help all athletic programs for Manhasset High School. The games continued until the NCAA ruled that they were illegal.

Mike’s son John recalls his dad as a generous and caring president. He said, “I think the thing I remember most about his involvement was that no kid or sports program did without. A team needed money or a kid needed running cleats, the Booster Club came through always because of Lax Day.”

Mike then moved on to Glen Cove and helped start the North Shore Lacrosse Club.

Mike now resides in Sarasota, FL, with his wife Jeanette. Their three sons and families are in Port Washington, Montauk, and Boca Raton, FL. The couple has nine grandchildren ranging from 26 to 6 years old.

“Congratulations on your induction, Mike. We hope you accept this as our thanks for all you did for the sport of lacrosse, and for all you did for the kids of Manhasset,” read his citation.

Ryan Miller (2001)

There is no doubt that the great attack line of 2001 consisted of Manhasset legacy names—Denihan, Bitter and of course, Miller. These names have been the driving force behind PAL Lacrosse and often the guts and strength behind the powerhouse that is the Manhasset lacrosse tradition. So, it is fitting that Ryan Miller, the youngest of the 11 children of Bill and Angela Miller, is inducted into the Manhasset Lacrosse Hall of Fame this evening.

• An outstanding athlete, Ryan was the long snapper in football for coach Bill Cherry

• All-County his senior year for his participation in the indoor track 4×800 and 4×400 relay teams, coached by legendary Don Scott. His speed, quickness and incredible footwork only made his transition to the spring and lacrosse only easier each year

• In his senior year, Manhasset lacrosse won the county and Long Island titles, and fell short to Penn Yan in the state finals by a score of 9-8

• Selected All-County in his senior year, and Honorable Mention All-County as a junior

• One of the top attackers for Hofstra in 2006, under first-year coach Seth Tierney

• Enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving from 2010 to 2018. He was an instructor-trainer for martial arts and was a part of the deployment to Africa in the Security Cooperation Mission in Burundi

• Once leaving the USMC, was a part of the CBRE Real Estate group, and managed Chick-Fil-A for his family. He is now in golf maintenance at the Village of Sands Point Golf Club

• Fulfilling the “circle” of Manhasset, once started as a player in the PAL Lacrosse program, Ryan is now the coach for his sons’ teams

• Married to Mary Kate Denihan, and they have 4 children, RJ, Emmett, Annie and Muiread

Coach Alan Lowe remembers Ryan as an “instinctive player that was unpredictable. It was very difficult to scout Ryan, because what he did in one game, he couldn’t replicate again in the next. He had moves that you just don’t teach—a plethora of moves. He had a great stick both ways and was a great shooter.”

Sean Denihan (2001)

It’s very hard to recognize just one of the attack line of the 2001 Manhasset boys lacrosse team—you’ve got to recognize all of them. Sean Denihan was one that came through in championship style, worthy of recognition in the MLHOF.

Sean Denihan is the youngest of the Denihan family, following in the footsteps of his two older brothers and dad to be inducted in the MLHOF. An outstanding athlete, Sean was an All-Conference, two year varsity, defensive end in football.

• In lacrosse, was a part of the remarkable line attack, always an exceptional and a vital attack player for three years running

• All-Conference in his sophomore year and and All-County as a junior, leading with goals and assists

• All-County again his senior year, and was awarded the MVP of the 14-10 Nassau County final win over Lynbrook after fellow attacker Ward Bitter fell to an injury. Said coach Alan Lowe; “Sean really stepped up in the playoffs for us, when we needed him most. He just got better and better every year. He was the main force and the control of the attack his senior year.”

• Major contributor for the Hoyas of Georgetown, playing for coach Dave Urick

• Played for four years, starting in three of them, as the Hoyas won two East Coast Athletic Conference (ECAC) titles. As a sophomore, Sean was second on his team in assists, and third overall in points

• Earned All-ECAC Honors his junior year, ranking third on the team with 29 points. His senior year, the team finished 12-3, losing to Virginia in the NCAA quarterfinal

• Earned an MBA in Finance from Fordham University, and worked in real estate and construction, managing large properties in Manhattan

• Joined Homewood Real Estate Partners in 2014 as a managing partner

• Married to Michelle, and together they have two children, Benjamin and Carey

E. Ward Bitter (2001)

Edwin Ward “EW” Bitter was an outstanding lacrosse player for Manhasset, but his career was cut short by a devastating medical condition which curtailed his promising future in the sport that he and his family loved.

• Four-year starter in soccer, named All-County and served as captain of the team

• Playing for Coach LoBianco, EW’s senior year was extraordinary, as the team won the county and Long Island titles and lost in the state finals

• Three-year lacrosse starter, named Honorable Mention All-American his senior year. His leadership on and off the field, attested his selection as a captain that same year

• His strength leading the attack line of Miller, Denihan and Bitter, was unstoppable. That team eventually lost in the state final, 9-8

• A top national recruit, and went on to Williams College, where his medical condition continued to curtail his participation, but he never let that get him down

• A 2005 graduate, Ward initially lived in Boston with a job in a private equity group in real estate. Colony Realty Partners gave him the jump and confidence in business that he has transferred to Bitter Lacrosse, founded in 2010 in Stowe, VT as a family business starting as host to a summer lacrosse camp

• Left his corporate job in 2014 to help grow the passion that brought him to love a sport that gave back to his family. Became the brains behind a series of lacrosse festivals played across the country

• This year, there are 10 lacrosse festivals that started in June, including those in South Carolina, Texas, and Massachusetts. Plans also include a total of six boys and girls camps—all very popular and sold out

• EW and his wife, Jenny, have three children, Mimi, Cece and Lulu. When he isn’t on the road in the roving Airstream motor home, his Command Central is Stowe, VT, where he enjoys triathlons and other adventure sports

Coach Alan Lowe remembers EW as “The complete attack player. He could shoot, he could dodge, and he could feed. He was quick and fast, he had a great stick and did everything well. His defenders could never tell his dominant hand—he was strong both ways. Such an unselfish player. I always wonder what the state game would have been like had Ward been able to play; we were devastated for him and the team when he indicated he couldn’t continue in the playoffs for medical reasons.”

More Than A Hall of Fame

The Manhasset Lacrosse Hall of Fame is a sponsor of and advocate for lacrosse events; boys/girls lacrosse trips; lights on the turf fields; One Love Foundation; safety netting and scorer’s platform at Ed Walsh Field; subsidizing additional boys varsity coach; subsidizing boys/girls gear; and turf fields at Manhasset High School.

The Hall of Fame is a not-for-profit organization created to promote, support and foster scholastic team lacrosse for male and female students in the Manhasset public school system, by raising funds for educational scholarships, athletic team travel and athletic equipment and supplies for male and female student participants in connection with team lacrosse athletic activities.

—Manhasset Lacrosse Hall of Fame

The long, eventful, honored life of Manhasset’s Leonard Finz

On July 23, in Manhasset’s Gracewood Mansion, Leonard Finz was officially inducted into the U.S. Army Officer Candidate School (OCS) Hall of Fame. A two-star major general was present, and a colonel presided over the ceremony, closing the circle on a military career that began more than 80 years before.

Finz, then a few weeks shy of 98, joined such HOF inductees as former Senator Robert Dole, Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger and General Tommy Franks, commander of the United States Central Command and overseer of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.

In other words, he’s in fairly elite company. Not bad for a son of Jewish immigrants born on the lower East Side of Manhattan. But in his achievements, the still active attorney has plenty of company as a cohort of the so-called “Greatest Generation.”

“Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are in [the Hall of Fame],” Finz told the Manhasset Press. “Those who received the Congressional Medal of Honor and a host of other big names, four-star generals, commanding officers. It was a tremendous, tremendous honor. And it was just an enormous event and a beautiful one. We had Major General [John F. Hussey of the Army Reserves] and Colonel [Pedro L. Rosario III, commanding officer, 6th Brigade, Fort Totten, NY]. We had a United States military band. We had a choir. We had the colors. We had the honor guards. It was just a fabulous, fabulous event.”

It was not the first time Finz earned military plaudits. In 2004, in a ceremony held at the World War II Memorial in Washington, and at the orders of Secretary of the Army Les Brownlee, Finz received his long overdue Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious and Outstanding service. He had served with the 27th Division as a field artillery officer in the Pacific theater.

The HOF induction was attended by New York State Senators John Brooks (D–Seaford) and Anna Kaplan (D–North Hills), and Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti (D–Port Washington) .

In a press release, it was noted that the “Officer Candidate School, located at Fort Benning, GA, trains, assesses, and evaluates potential commissioned officers of the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and Army National Guard. Annual inductions into the OCS Hall of Fame are based on accomplishments that include superior valorous combat leadership, superior meritorious service, as well as public- and life-long service to their community and nation.”

Brooks, chair of the Senate’s Veterans Committee, said, “As a young man, 2nd Lt. Leonard Finz led his artillery battery into combat to serve and protect his nation. Today we have the honor to recognize Judge Leonard Finz for a lifetime of devoted service. He is an icon of his generation and a role model for others to follow.”

In his remarks at the ceremony, Brooks added, “When you look back at where we were, where the world was before the U.S. got into the war, the future was questionable. His generation stepped forward. An army that almost did not exist was made into an army that saved the world. And when they came back, they rebuilt our nation. They created something called Levittown—I’m sure you’re familiar with it.”

Finz, sitting nearby, and others laughed appreciatively.

Kaplan said, “I’m privileged to meet a lot of dedicated and accomplished individuals from across the state, but few rise to the level of dedication and accomplishment of the Honorable Leonard Finz, who answered the call to serve our great nation during WWII and went on to a have a long and proud career of superior service to our community.”

Sillitti said, “I can think of no one who deserves this honor more than the Honorable Leonard Finz as the living embodiment of the Greatest Generation. His induction into the [HOF} is yet another testament to his outstanding character. It was truly my honor to have had the opportunity to get to know Judge Finz and seeing the community come out so strongly to attend his induction ceremony is just a small example of his legacy and the high regard in which his friends, family, and the community holds him in.”

In addition, according to his law firm biography, during the 2004 ceremony in Washington, “He was also presented with the American flag that was flown in his honor for one full day atop the Capitol of the United States, in addition to being pinned with a half-dozen other military medals. As further recognition of his extraordinary military service during WWII, Judge Finz has been honored by having his military biography filed as a permanent record with the United States Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., which has now been archived and enshrined there for eternity.”

Music To Military

Showing musical talent early on, a teenage Finz made the two-hour daily journey from Brooklyn (where his family moved) to the High School of Music & Art in upper Manhattan, where he had applied and been accepted. The school has now relocated to Lincoln Center and merged with the School for Performing Arts and is known as the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts.

“I had a full music program of three hours of music a day plus a full academic program,” he related. “But with it all, it was one of the greatest experiences of my life, really.”

The gifted youth studied the saxophone and clarinet and according to his law firm bio became first clarinetist in the highly touted school symphony orchestra and leader of its jazz band,

Not long after he turned 18, in August of 1942, he was drafted into the U.S. Army as the country was now fully engaged in the global conflict.

“After basic training, they heard that I had some kind of talent and some kind of background in music,” Finz said. “And a captain in the Special Services calls me and he says, ‘We’d like you to write and direct some shows for the GIs here at Camp Pendleton.’ I said, ‘I’d be very happy to do that.’ I was writing shows, producing shows, writing music, etc, etc.”

Soon, he was transferred into an Army military band as a clarinetist and as a saxophone player, entertaining the troops. According to his law firm bio, an article in the military press labeled him as “Born of Talent.”

“And I was with them for more than a year or so. But then, frankly, [I did not want to say] how I spent the war, playing saxophone and clarinet while there were real soldiers dying on the battlefield,” Finz affirmed. “And so I applied to Officer Candidate School, passed the requirements and was accepted. There were 100 who started at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in the field artillery. There were battle-tested sergeants from Europe, sergeants from the Pacific war zones, and I was just a clarinetist in the band. I was really a musician in a soldier’s uniform. That’s all. But out of the 100 who started, only 32 made the final grade. And I was one of them.”

It was a brutal four-month course that weeded out even the toughest of soldiers.

He added, “And when the general put the gold bars on my shoulders, and I was commissioned a second lieutenant. it was the greatest day of my life—aside from my marriage (to the late Pearl for 68 years) and having kids and grandkids.”

From his bio: “Trained in beach landings, he boarded a troop ship heading for Okinawa and assigned to the first wave attack force upon the Japanese mainland where 400,000 Japanese were dug-in with Kamikaze aircraft support. Within days of the planned U.S. attack, atomic bombs were dropped and Japan surrendered.”

Finz would have agreed with the late WWII veteran and author Paul Fussell, who titled one of his books Thank God for The Atom Bomb. There were plans readied for the invasion of the Japanese main islands, a titanic effort that would have dwarfed the invasion of Normandy in 1944. Estimates were that the Americans would suffer more than a million casualties.

“I would have been right up front. I would have been in the first attack force,” Finz reflected. “The artillery was behind the infantry. I would have to pick up the targets and obviously, I [would be a big target].”

Law Without Degree

He was then assigned to Philippines, and one day was called in by his commanding officer, a colonel. More than 50 American troops were languishing in the stockade for various crimes, waiting for their court martials, the officer told Finz. There was only one Judge Advocate General (JAG) lawyer on the island, and he had to serve as a prosecutor. Finz only had a high school education. But as is the military way, the colonel must have seen something in the young 2nd Lt, and assigned him to the JAG (made up of licensed lawyers) with the title of “defense counsel.” By military law, the defense counsel had to be an officer.

From his bio: “Despite informing his commanding officer that he never went beyond high school, the commanding officer pressed that he observed how Finz interacted with others, that he read his personnel file, stressing he could do the job ‘since you’re a damn good officer.’”

Finz began reading manuals to learn military justice procedures.

It was a tedious and dangerous assignment. He had to gather evidence and track down witnesses. Japanese soldiers were still in the area, continuing to fight a war they did not know had ended.

As his bio put it, “Finz would have to snake through jungle areas to locate witnesses in remote villages while driving in an open jeep armed only with a .45 caliber sidearm.”

“Within six months [he] defended every accused GI successfully,” the bio continued. “Further, archive research establishes that he was the only one out of 16 million Americans in uniform during WWII to have ever been assigned to JAG as defense counsel with only a high school diploma.”

It was for such service that Finz earned the Army Commendation Medal he was to receive decades later.

Finz, discharged in 1946 as a 1st Lt., then took advantage of the GI Bill and entered New York University and earned a BA and later, a law degree. He met Pearl at NYU and the couple married in 1948. He was also elected president of the law school student body, and passed the state bar exam in 1951.

His Music Career

Entertainment still beckoned, however, and he joined the local Associated Musicians of Greater New York (now part of the American Federation of Musicians Local 802). Coincidentally, he found a band that was seeking a saxophone player who could sing.

In an interview, Finz noted that he was playing five club nights a week under the stage name “Lennie Forrest” He met the legendary Al Jolson, best known for the first “talkie,” 1927’s The Jazz Singer. The crooner/actor reportedly complimented Finz after seeing him perform in Milwaukee.

Finz was among those who sang tributes at Jolson’s memorial service, held in Madison Square Garden in 1950.

In those post-war years, he told an interviewer, Billboard Magazine once yoked Lennie Forrest and future star Steve Lawrence (forever paired with wife Eydie Gormé) as “Singers of the Future.”

Finz was signed as a singer and songwriter by Music Corporation of America (MCA), then the largest theatrical agency in the world, headed by the legendary Lew Wasserman. It was the forerunner of Universal and Comcast.

According to his bio, “He recorded many songs…some recordings of which were charted by Billboard and Cash Box critics as ‘picks,’ thus propelling him on a national tour to many TV, radio, and nightclub venues throughout the United States, where he also performed with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. In addition, Judge Finz auditioned for the lead Hollywood role in the 1952 remake of The Jazz Singer, which came down to two choices, Danny Thomas and Lennie Forrest. Thomas ultimately got the role. Judge Finz was also cast on the NBC soap opera, Another World.”

Law & Politics

After returning to practicing law later in the 1950s, and then living in Little Neck, Finz followed his interest in politics started when he served as forum director of the NYU Democratic Club.

According to his bio, “[He] ran for the New York State Senate, United States Congress and was appointed Queens County campaign chairman for John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and others.”

Finz told the Manhasset Press that he was invited to the White House by JFK, and remembered sitting in front of The Resolute desk under which “little John John [would play] and we would sit down and speak about world issues, et cetera, et cetera. Somehow he talked to me. I don’t know why or how, but I guess he felt that I was a WWII veteran and he was a WWII veteran. We had something in common. And it was one of the greatest situations I ever really [experienced].”

He was tasked with preparing for a 1960 campaign appearance by the then senator in Queens, and chose the largest venue in the county, the 5,000-seat Sunnyside Gardens, noted for its boxing matches. He added extra speakers outside, knowing the arena could not hold all wishing to see the popular candidate.

Finz served as emcee, and JFK was expected at 7:30 p.m. More than two hours later, the candidate finally showed up.

“So for two and a half hours. I’m singing, telling jokes, performing speeches, I’m doing whatever I can,” Finz related. “And then suddenly, I get the word, ‘He’s here.’ I get to the [offstage area] and John F. Kennedy looks at me, puts out his hand, and the first thing he says is, ‘Where’s the john?’ And I say, ‘Just follow me.’ A couple of [security people] cleared the bathroom out. We go in, just he and I, next to each other at the urinals. I could see that picture right now. It was really something.”

In 1965, Finz was elected as New York City Civil Court Judge—the youngest at the time—and later won an election to sit on the New York State Supreme Court. He shocked the judicial world in 1978, stepping down to become a partner at Julien, Schlesinger & Finz.

Asked if he regretted giving up the judge’s chair at 53, Finz replied, “I gave it up because my kids [Saundra and Stuart] were in college. I could not afford it. I would have had to refinance my house and get a second mortgage in order to pay the bills.”

He also was encouraged by his old NYU law professor Alfred Julien, former president of the American Trial Lawyers Association, and, per Finz, “one of the finest lawyers in the country.”

Soon, Finz was trying what he called “very big cases,” the biggest of which was against pharmaceutical Eli Lilly & Company, and it’s anti-miscarriage pill, Diethylstilbestrol. Finz successfully argued that the drug caused vaginal cancer in some of the daughters born to those who had taken it.

“And I tried that case and got the very first verdict against Eli Lilly that went all the way up to the Supreme Court of the United States,” Finz noted. “And I made a national reputation from that point on.”

Per his biography, “Judge Finz won record settlements and verdicts in Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Schenectady, Albany, Syracuse, and other areas of New York State, in addition to New Haven, Hartford and other jurisdictions. In all, he won countless millions of dollars for his clients.”

In 1984, Finz founded the medical malpractice firm Finz & Finz, P.C. It has offices in Mineola and Manhattan and is now managed by Finz’s son Stuart, the CEO. Stuart’s wife, Cheri, and their children, Jacqueline and Brandon, are also part of the firm.

Books and Classes

Late in life, Finz turned author, as he’s had plenty of life experiences to draw on. Among his titles are the political/legal thrillers Arrowhead (2005), The Paragon Conspiracy (2011) and Reservation to Kill (2013). At the age of 92, he published his memoir, The Greatest Day of My Life.

His law firm his biography states, “As a former Queens College professor, he taught courses in ‘Business Law’ and ‘Law in Response to Social Change.’ As a law school professor at New York Law School, he taught courses in ‘Trial Advocacy’ and ‘Law and Medicine.’ He also served as a faculty member of The National Judicial College in Reno, Nevada, where he taught courses on ‘Medical Malpractice’ and ‘Tactics in the Courtroom.’ Judge Finz has written many articles that have been published in a host of publications… [including] ‘The High-Low Contract—Where Both Sides Win’ (the creation of the high-low contract by Judge Finz is still utilized in many forms throughout the state and national court system), and more.”

In addition, “Each day at Finz & Finz, P.C., he confers with the firm’s trial lawyers and staff on legal issues and courtroom strategy and offers advice on the prosecution of medical malpractice and personal injury cases.”

A Chat With the Judge

Q Are you still actively involved in your firm?

A I spend time talking about strategy and things of that sort. I do a lot of writing. I write books and I write articles that are published. I do a lot of things. Because, after all, I’m only 24 years old, so I’ve got a long way to go (chuckles).

Q How are you feeling?

A I feel great. And actually, I’m just one of the few surviving World War Two veterans. As you probably are aware, we had more than 16 million Americans in uniform during World War Two. And out of that number, we have fewer than 1 percent living today, most of whom are either in VA facilities or in nursing homes, or disabled. We’re losing veterans at the rate of 350 to 400 veterans a day. Mathematically, it’s just a question of time before we lose everyone. And pretty soon, unfortunately, we’re going to be a vanished breed. And who knows when I will be part of that group?

Q But until then, you are determined to learn and do as much as you can?

A I do. It’s important. First of all, you’ve got to keep your mind occupied busy. Because if I don’t keep my brain occupied, my brain reaches out and complains, ‘How about paying attention to me?’ So with that, I must always do some writing and I write almost every day. I write a monthly article that is published. I’ve had four books published.

Q If you had any regrets in your long life, does any particular one stand out?

A I suspect I had a choice. I came to the crossroads—I could have gone into show business or I could have continued with law. But I came very, very close and I had some very, very big opportunities and big things in show business. In fact, I was being considered for the lead role of the remake of The Jazz Singer. I did so many things and was in radio and TV. I even was on The Joe Franklin Show on ABC TV here in New York, and performed every day on that job.

Editor’s note: After this story was posted, Dr. Vincent Butera contacted the Manhasset Press to point out that, “I was never subject to any charges at any level or had any legal action commenced against me.” In the interests of fairness, we have removed the word “charges” from the title of this post.

Spokespersons for the New York State Education Department (NYSED) confirmed to the Manhasset Press that its Office of State Review had closed its investigation into former Manhasset Superintendent of Schools Dr. Vincent Butera with no action recommended.

According to a press release, “Given the confidential nature of our review processes, we cannot offer further comment or provide documents concerning any review. We take all allegations of misconduct against educators extremely seriously. Part 83 of the Commissioner’s Regulations authorizes the Education Department to investigate allegations of lack of good moral character lodged against certified educators.”

Further, the statement continued, “An educator facing charges in accordance with Part 83 is afforded the opportunity for a full due process hearing. At issue when the Department initiates a Part 83 proceeding is whether the certified educator has the ‘good moral character’ to retain the certificate they hold. Our Part 83 moral character reviews are confidential unless they result in adverse action affecting an application or certificate. The Department has no record of any adverse action being taken against Mr. Butera by the Department.”

In a statement released by his public relations firm, newsPRos, Butera said, “I am pleased to report to the Community that on July 8, 2022, I was informed that the investigation previously opened by the Office of State Review has been closed without incident. As a result of the closure, there will be no hearing required and I remain in good standing with no effect on my administrative certification.”

He added, “The fact that the [NYSED] has closed the matter with no further action is gratifying and expected. To be clear, there have never been charges filed against me and no disciplinary action was ever taken by the Manhasset Board of Education. This was the proper decision as this latest news affirms. I appreciate the public support of the many people in Manhasset who stood with me throughout this ordeal.”

The district’s lawyers, in filings with the state Supreme Court in May, revealed that Butera had been the subject of a law enforcement investigation since 2021, when the district complied to a subpoena from the Office of State Review for its investigative file on Butera. The filings were in response to a Newsday FOIA request for the investigative file.

According to Butera, the district’s response cited “the lack ‘of any disciplinary findings, charges, reprimands, determinations or employment actions against Dr. Butera.’ The district wrote that disclosure would thus constitute ‘an unwarranted invasion of Dr. Butera’s privacy.’”

He added, “For anyone in a position of authority, it is disconcerting to have unsubstantiated claims become a source of hurtful speculation and misinformation. While it is not known who did file the complaint here, it was not filed by either the district or superintendent. I am pleased to have been vindicated and am grateful for the outpouring of support throughout this ordeal. I am grateful to the trustees who wrote letters of support on my behalf.”

Butera’s term began on July 1, 2017, and he was paid his salary and benefits by the district through June 30 of this year. He will lose his benefits but continue to draw the $286,844 salary through June 30, 2023. If he gains employment between July 1, 2022 and the end of his contract, the district will deduct whatever salary/compensation he receives, including consulting work.

Butera went on leave on Thursday, May 13, 2021. The previous November, an independent counsel had released a report concluding that Butera had violated the district’s sexual harassment policy. The law firm of Shaw, Perelson, May & Lambert was retained after a Shelter Rock Elementary School teacher (who had left the district) accused Butera of unwanted attention, hugs and conversation she felt violated her personal space. The firm was hired on Sept. 23, 2020.

The Manhasset Press obtained the teacher’s letter to the board of education detailing the alleged harassment as well as independent counsel Elizabeth Ledkovsky’s letter to the teacher describing the investigation.

Soon after the Manhasset Press article on the allegations came out, the board met without taking any action. As a result, a number of students walked out of class in protest one day while teachers wore black.

The board of education did not release the findings of the investigation and if Butera had faced any discipline. It did not reveal how the district’s sexual harassment policy had been changed. Dr. Gaurav Passi served as acting superintendent until he was appointed as superintendent this past July 1.

Much of the public comment at board of education meetings last fall and summer revolved around Butera’s fate. Most were negative at the beginning before Butera’s supporters began to outnumber the critics.

Asked through his spokesperson, Jamie Moss, if he was actively looking for a new position, and if the accusations will impact his job search, Butera replied, “I look forward to sharing my leadership skills and experiences with a new school district, and I welcome the opportunities that await. Now that the matter has been fully resolved, I look forward to pursuing opportunities to continue to positively impact and improve the lives of students.

Per the separation agreement Butera signed with the district earlier this year, “Dr. Butera agrees to make good faith efforts to obtain full-time employment at a marketable rate of pay for all positions sought.”

In May 2021, I was disheartened to have witnessed the media frenzy that resulted when a story was published in the Manhasset Press with the headline “Super Problem,” citing the violation of a Manhasset School District policy. What resulted were conclusions being drawn and many quickly condemning a human being without an understanding of the facts.

It was evident that the Board of Education understood there was more here, which is why they made the decision from the onset that discipline was not warranted. In May 2021, board members publicly stated that their decision was “the right one,” and in February 2022, the board acknowledged that “regrettably, some of the reaction was based on speculation rather than fact, and certain statements made by some individuals in the public domain regarding Dr. Butera’s reputation and character were uninformed.”

With those words the Manhasset Board of Education seemingly closed the door on a sad chapter of Manhasset history. Until of course it was made public in May 2022 that the state had commenced an investigation spurred by an anonymous complaint with the Office of State Review. Apparently, anyone can file a complaint against someone with an educational license and create the kind of hurtful speculation that resulted here. Speculation that further entrenches us in our respective camps rather than promotes the kind of respectful and productive dialogue that is so sorely needed in our society.

I watched this ordeal from the earliest days and was saddened in so many ways, yet I was touched to see so many people speak up on behalf of Dr. Butera, including teachers’ union President Ed Vasta, teachers’ union Vice President Chris Miller, and Deputy Superintendent Rosemary Johnson, who in speaking about Dr. Butera stated, “I know Dr. Butera to be a humble, kind, caring and thoughtful human being and superintendent,” Johnson said. “He is honest, and he is self-aware. He is an extraordinary leader, the best I have ever worked with in my plus-40-year career.”

It speaks to the man I know. In nearly 40 years as an educator, I have never seen the president and vice president of a teachers’ union stand up publicly for a superintendent.

Those sentiments were not isolated as just recently, former 16-year board trustee Carlo Prinzo, upon hearing the news that the Office of State Review was closing the matter without incident, thus clearing Dr. Butera stated, “Wonderful news. This horrible attack on Dr. Butera comes to a close, orchestrated by a few unhappy individuals to achieve their own goals. Meanwhile, the reputation of a fine person/superintendent is attacked.”

While I am happy with the outcome, I remain a bit sad but for the grace of God go any of us. Perhaps it does not have to continue to be sad. Let us all resolve to not jump to conclusions, throw stones, or sign petitions without first understanding exactly what happened. Perhaps that will keep this from ever happening again,

And to Dr. Butera and his family: I am so very sorry… or as the headline should read “Super Sorry.”

Sincerely,

—Valerie Mazzone

Those looking for a meaningful way to commemorate the September 11^th anniversary are invited to attend the Candlelight Memorial Service at 8  p.m. on Sunday, September 11, in Mary Jane Davies Park on Plandome Road in Manhasset.

A choir from Manhasset High School will sing. Members of the Manhasset/Lakeville Fire Department will hoist a large American flag behind the gazebo. The service is sponsored by the Manhasset Clergy Association.

For further information call Rev. Jimmy Only of The Congregational Church at 516-526-8391.  In case of rain, the service will be held at St. Mary’s Church.

—Submitted by the Manhasset Clergy Association

On Sunday, Sept. 11, the Town of North Hempstead will host a September 11th Memorial Service at 8:15 a.m. at Manhasset Valley Park, located on East Shore Road and Northern Blvd. All are welcomed to the ceremony.

“As we prepare to observe the 21st Anniversary of these tragic attacks on America, it is important that we commemorate this day as the passage of time does not diminish the tragedy that our nation suffered,” North Hempstead Supervisor Jennifer DeSena stated. “Fifty-six North Hempstead residents lost their lives in the attacks, so it is especially significant that we come together as a community each year to honor their memory. Please join us as we remember these loved ones and the brave heroism of our first responders who answered the call that day.”

“We will gather in somber reflection and commemoration of those lost in the tragic events of September 11th. On this 21st Anniversary, may we continue to heal and rededicate ourselves to peace throughout the world,” said Town Clerk Ragini Srivastava.

Last year, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the devastating attacks, the Town unveiled a monument that features a 19-foot-long steel beam from the World Trade Center.

For information, call the Office of the Town Clerk at 516-869-7610.

—Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead

9-11 Honor Roll

Roko Camaj, 60, Manhasset, ABM Industries, South Tower

Paul Regan Cascio, 23, Manhasset, Euro Brokers Inc., South Tower

James Lee Connor, 38, Summit, NJ, Sandler O’Neill Ptnrs, South Tower

Kevin Michael Cosgrove, 46, West Islip, Aon Corporation, South Tower

Timothy John Coughlin, 42, NYC, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Joseph D. Dickey Jr., 50, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Robert D. Eaton, 37, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Steven A. Giorgetti, 43, Manhasset, Marsh & McLennan, North Tower

John Francis Iskyan, 41, Wilton, CT, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Jeffrey Earle LeVeen, 55, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Christopher Quackenbush, 44, Plandome, Sandler O’Neill & Partners, South Tower

Donald A. Robson, 52, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Frank Gerard Salvaterra, 41, Manhasset, Sandler O’Neill & Partners, South Tower

Michael H. Seaman, 41, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Daniel J. Shea, 37, Pelham Manor, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Joseph P. Shea, 47, Pelham, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Donald F. Spampinato Jr., 39, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

Matthew G. Vianna, 23, Manhasset, Cantor Fitzgerald, North Tower

—From various sources. Some of the victims grew up in the Manhasset Press coverage area but lived elsewhere at the time of their death.

If you go to the U.S. Open this weekend to watch the championship finals, you might run into a tennis buff whose enthusiasm is contagious. He’s there to guide you and answer your questions. This story is about him.

Dennis Klainberg’s enthusiasm comes across the phone lines. The Manhasset resident and member of the Manhasset High School Class of 1980 is in his element at the U.S. Open Tennis Championship, where he serves as coordinator for General Volunteers. He has volunteered at the tennis complex for about 20 years, he told the Manhasset Press.

One minute he’s exclaiming over an opening day match between obscure players on one of the many courts dispersed around the Flushing site. Another he’s giving directions to one of the multitude of tennis fans flooding the complex. Another time he interrupted the conversation briefly to hand a gift to a child.

Massive sporting events such as the U.S. Open would not work without an army of volunteers to help oil the many gears of the the complicated operations.

When reached by the Press, Klainberg was in the company of tennis enthusiasts from Manhasset and was kept busy by Arthur Ashe Kids Day, comprising what he called “a number of fun-filled and interactive games for everyone and a super carnival-like experience.”

In addition, Klainberg and his charges also “provide historical information about the USTA (United States Tennis Association) and keep the kids busy and having fun and then give them some interest in the game,” he said.

“The other thing that we do, probably more than anything else, is answer general questions. Where’s the bathroom? Where’s the best match? Where’s the Louis Armstrong stadium? Where’s the grandstand?” Klainberg noted.

Tennis has been a lifelong sport for Klainberg. He recalls participating as a youth at the now-shuttered Village Bath Club, part of the Manhasset Country Club. Unlike many who competed in high school, he still plays the court game as he nears 60. His four children with wife Dana—Adam, Emma, Sydney and Jacob, are all grown up and out of the house.

“But when they come back, they can play with me,” Klainberg said. “And so one great thing I did was that I taught them one good lesson, which is how to play tennis. We play all the time. They know they’ll keep me busy for the rest of my life, so that makes me happy. It gives us a common bond.”

Klainberg is not only a member of the USTA, he also donates to the USTA Foundation, the charity arm that, among other things, introduces underserved children to the game and provides equipment and lessons.

“As a volunteer, I get a perk of having special seating in certain spots, such as at Louis Armstrong stadium,” he noted, adding that, over the years, he has seen thousands of matches and they all kind of “converge in my head.”

But one memory that stands out is when he watched Serena Williams against Kim Clijsters in a 2009 semifinal at Armstrong. That was the night the all-time great unleashed a profanity-laced tirade against a line judge.

“I was there. I was very close to [the court]. I don’t remember who won or lost, all I know is she was screaming. It was horrible,” he admitted.

For the record, Serena lost that night.

Another interjection—”Andy Murray’s doing great. Yes. I think he’s about to win his first round match. I’m right outside Court 15 right now,” he said, referring to the former world’s top-ranked player and two-time Grand Slam champ.

By the way, he is “Sir Andrew Barron Murray, Order of the British Empire” to you.

Shouts from fans were heard on the phone line, and, half talking to himself, Klainberg tried to figure out for whom they were cheering.

“That’s what I love about the Open, it’s always in flux, there’s always something going on,” he observed. “They are screaming, but in [the opening] matches they have no idea who they’re watching. I’m in the business and I don’t even know these [players]. But the level of the quality of play is so high. You can go to the most minor of minor matches in the first couple of days and be so close [to the action]. It’s like the best seat in the house, just like being at center court.”

Volunteers don’t get to watch the finals at Arthur Ashe Stadium; they have to pay for the privilege. But Klainberg pays a lot less to watch on a giant screen just outside the main court—the cheers intermingle, he said. He has been inside Arthur Ashe for the championship matches.

“But unless you’re sitting in the best seats, [you’re better off] outside because you get the same television set that you get when you’re up in the nosebleeds—you’re gonna watch the television half the time [when you’re up there] anyway,” he said.

Asked if he was ready to switch to pickleball, the smaller court cousin of tennis, Klainberg laughed and said “I never tried it. And for sure, I will. I’m still a student of [tennis]. I really updated the way I play. I’m playing more modern. And I feel like I’m playing better than I ever did. So I don’t think [I need] to play pickleball at this time.”

Klainberg said one of the perks of his volunteer job is that he gets time off to watch matches.

“But because I’m always wearing my uniform, I’m constantly barraged with questions no matter where I am or what I’m doing. I guess that’s why I love it—I’m always on,” he said.

He concluded, “This is the kind of volunteer situation where you got to love people and love being helpful. If you don’t want to be friendly and upbeat and positive don’t do it. This is the place where people want to be happy and you want to be happy with them.”