By Jessica Semins, LI Herald With teens spending more time online amid Covid-19 than ever before, cyberbullying has become an epidemic. With the help, though, of Valley Stream resident and cyberbullying survivor-turned-advocate Lisa-Michelle Kucharz, legislation is in the works to combat this serious problem. The bill, sponsored by State Sen. Todd Kaminsky, a Democrat from … Continue reading Valley Stream Resident Works to Combat Cyberbullying
New York State Passes Bill to Create Cyberbullying Task Force
I’m thrilled to share that the bill to create a cyberbullying task force passed in the New York State Senate today and Assembly two weeks ago -- both with overwhelming support! Next step . . . the governor's desk! It's a very surreal moment, a blend of elation and other emotions, after several years of … Continue reading New York State Passes Bill to Create Cyberbullying Task Force
Taking a Break, Really
One of the most memorable moments of my career was when a supervisor of mine forced me to take a break -- to take a three-week vacation. At the time, the workaholic New Yorker in me could not fathom even taking a week off. I remember thinking, ‘How could someone who was so needed at … Continue reading Taking a Break, Really
Happy Work-From-Home Anniversary to Me
A year ago today, after my first COVID-19 test and order to quarantine, I began working from home. Several negative tests for the virus and for the antibodies later, I’m fortunate to still be able to work remotely. For me, working from home during the pandemic was a gift I didn’t know I wanted, and … Continue reading Happy Work-From-Home Anniversary to Me
Coming Together to Diminish Cyberbullying
New York State Senate Roundtable on Cyberbullying On Thursday, February 11, 2021, New York State Senator Todd Kaminsky hosted a New York State Senate Roundtable on Cyberbullying with students, educators, guidance counselors, child welfare advocates, crisis counselors, cyberbullying experts, law enforcement, an assistant district attorney, and thought-leaders. Panelists shared information and suggestions from variety of … Continue reading Coming Together to Diminish Cyberbullying
New York State Senate Roundtable on Cyberbullying
As we ushered in a new year, keeping our hopeful eyes on an end to the pandemic, we realized that some of the challenges we were already facing not only weren’t put on pause like much of our lives, but also worsened. With new all-time highs in screen-time, widespread remote learning, and a decrease in … Continue reading New York State Senate Roundtable on Cyberbullying
Farewell, 2020!
So long, 2020! While we’re hoping our COVID-19 woes will disappear in the new year, we know we’re still a long way from any semblance of pre-pandemic normalcy. To say 2020 was difficult may be the understatement of the century. Even with its obstacles and disappointments, it wasn’t my worst year and, for that, I’m … Continue reading Farewell, 2020!
Thanksgiving Prayer 2020
For 10 years, I shared the same Thanksgiving prayer I wrote back in 2009. This year is like no other, so I made a few updates . . . May this time of year find you and your family in good health and good spirit, as we come together in our hearts to be thankful for … Continue reading Thanksgiving Prayer 2020
Fall Foliage for the Win
No matter how many times I see the fall foliage, it doesn't cease to amaze me. I'd like to say I appreciate all things with the same awe, but it's not the case. I often wonder if it is the way it looks or the way I look at it, and why do some people, places, things, and experiences become … Continue reading Fall Foliage for the Win
The Pandemic Fancy Feast
For Jews around the world, Rosh Hashanah — the Jewish new year — is a holiday filled with family, friends, traditional food, good wishes, blessings, reflection, happiness, and more food. While this Rosh Hashanah will be different than all others in our lifetimes, the impact of the holidays during the pandemic is incredible. As I … Continue reading The Pandemic Fancy Feast