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Ep. 618 — Influential Origins with Alan Mindel
Guest: Ramon Maislen — Part 1
hmTv at HMTC

In Part 1 of Influential Origins, host Alan Mindel sits down with Brooklyn real estate investor and community advocate Ramon Maislen for a powerful conversation about community, identity, antisemitism, and the dangerous shift he has witnessed in Brooklyn since October 7th.

Ramon reflects on his deep connection to Brooklyn, especially Park Slope, a neighborhood long known for diversity, inclusivity, and neighborly connection. But after the Hamas attacks in Israel, Ramon says that sense of safety and shared community changed dramatically. With family ties to Israel and personal memories of living through the Second Intifada, he describes how the trauma of October 7th became deeply personal, while many around him seemed unable or unwilling to respond with empathy.

Alan and Ramon discuss the rise of anti-Israel and antisemitic rhetoric in local politics, protests, graffiti, and community institutions, including disturbing incidents involving the Brooklyn Museum and the targeting of Jewish individuals. Ramon also shares his experience with the Park Slope Food Coop, once a place of connection across backgrounds, and how renewed efforts to bring the BDS movement into the co-op created division, hostility, and fear among Jewish members.

This episode examines what happens when local activism crosses into intimidation, when community spaces become battlegrounds, and why paying attention to local politics and civic institutions matters more than ever.

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In this episode of The Israeli Bond on hmTv, host Gal Swisa Cohen welcomes Michelle Herman and Rosanne Bogard, co-founders of Kadima B’Yachad, an organization created in the aftermath of October 7th to support those impacted by the war in Israel.

Michelle and Rosanne share how their work began with sending supplies to Israel and quickly grew into something much deeper: emotional support, trauma-informed care, community connection, wellness retreats, morale-boosting events, and practical help for IDF soldiers, lone soldiers, Nova survivors, hostage families, amputees, reservists, and families across Israel and the diaspora.

Together, they discuss the meaning of Kadima B’Yachad, “moving forward together,” and explain how their mission is rooted in Jewish values, transparency, kindness, and the belief that no one should feel alone during times of crisis. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of ordinary people choosing to act, build bridges, and bring more light into a wounded world.

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In this episode of Voices of Diversity on hmTv, host Sherona Varulkar welcomes Dr. Jai Bansal for a thoughtful conversation about identity, coexistence, faith, and the immigrant experience.

Dr. Bansal shares his journey from India to North America, reflecting on his distinguished scientific career, his work in social service through the Vishva Hindu Parishad of America, and his commitment to educating the public about Hindu Dvesha, also known as Hinduphobia. Together, Sherona and Dr. Bansal explore the long history of Jewish life in India, the spirit of coexistence within Indian society, and the growing need for Hindu and Jewish communities to stand together against hatred.

The conversation also introduces key ideas within Sanatana Dharma, including Vedanta, karma, rebirth, moksha, yoga, meditation, and the belief that there are many paths to one ultimate reality. Through comparisons between Hindu and Jewish thought, this episode offers a powerful reminder that respect, humility, and understanding are essential to building a more peaceful world.

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Ep. 615 | The Fog of War and Humanity
Guest: Andrea Nordquist, Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14
Part 3 | hmTv at HMTC

In Part 3 of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli concludes his conversation with Andrea Nordquist of Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14, highlighting the creative, personal, and deeply human ways the organization supports veterans, military families, and communities across Long Island.

Andrea shares the many projects led by the Blue Star Mothers, including “Rosie” sewing events, handmade pillowcases for veterans receiving treatment, Christmas trees decorated with repurposed Wreaths Across America bows, and upcoming wreath-making efforts for veterans. She reflects on the emotional moments when small gestures, such as a simple holiday tree, brought comfort to veterans who had not decorated in years, including one veteran living in his car.

The conversation also explores the group’s support for veterans in prison programs, including collecting yarn so incarcerated veterans can crochet and knit hats, scarves, mittens, and toys for underprivileged children. Andrea explains how these efforts give veterans purpose, structure, dignity, and a chance to give back.

Richard and Andrea discuss the importance of delegation, community partnerships, local businesses that quietly support veterans, and the ongoing challenges of fundraising and public perception. Andrea also speaks about cooking monthly meals for veterans at Liberty Village, supporting awareness around veteran suicide through “22 a day” efforts, and recognizing that even small donations and acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

The episode closes with a powerful message about involving young people in service, planting seeds of responsibility, and never underestimating what students and future generations can accomplish when given a chance to care, contribute, and lead.

This final part is a moving tribute to service, volunteerism, compassion, and the quiet army of people who make sure veterans and their families are never forgotten.

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Ep. 614 | The Fog of War and Humanity
Guest: Andrea Nordquist, Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14
Part 2 | hmTv at HMTC

In Part 2 of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli continues his conversation with Andrea Nordquist of Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14, exploring the urgent needs facing veterans and military families across Nassau County, Queens, and Long Island.

Andrea discusses the work of the Blue Star Mothers, including fundraising, food support for veterans through the Vet Mart in East Meadow, and the growing reality that many veterans in need are not elderly, but young service members and families struggling to make ends meet in one of the most expensive regions in the country. She shares how the organization provides food, meat, gift cards, and support for children of veterans during the holiday season.

The conversation also turns to honoring fallen and forgotten veterans, including the burial of unclaimed veterans at Long Island National Cemetery. Andrea explains how the veteran community comes together with color guards, music, and presence so that no veteran is laid to rest alone.

Richard and Andrea also reflect on Long Island’s deep military history, the importance of recognizing students entering military service, the challenges recruiters face in schools, and the value of military experience in careers such as law enforcement and public service.

The episode closes with powerful reflections on September 11, the lasting impact on Long Island families, the work of Tunnel to Towers, and the responsibility to keep history alive for younger generations who did not live through it.

This episode is a meaningful tribute to veterans, military families, community service, and the people who quietly step forward to make sure those who served are seen, honored, and supported.

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Ep. 613 | The Fog of War and Humanity
Guest: Andrea Nordquist, Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14
Part 1 | hmTv at HMTC

In Part 1 of The Fog of War and Humanity, host Richard Acritelli welcomes Andrea Nordquist, President of Military Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 14, for a heartfelt conversation about service, sacrifice, family, and the ongoing responsibility to support America’s veterans.

Andrea shares her Long Island roots, her path from Nassau Community College and Cortland to teaching and community service, and the military legacy within her own family. She reflects on her father’s service in the Army Air Corps and the powerful story of her Uncle Joe, a wounded World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient who lost his arm after being injured in France, then spent years giving back to other veterans through volunteer service.

Richard and Andrea discuss the importance of preserving veterans’ stories before they are lost, especially as families uncover photographs, records, and artifacts from relatives who rarely spoke about their wartime experiences. Their conversation also explores the critical role of organizations like the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, and Blue Star Mothers in providing camaraderie, support, and a sense of belonging for service members and their families.

Andrea also speaks about her son’s decision to join the Air Force, his continued service in the Air National Guard, and her own journey into the Blue Star Mothers. She explains how the organization supports military families, honors fallen service members, assists veterans, reaches out to elderly shut-ins, recognizes widows of veterans, and encourages young people entering military service.

This episode highlights the human side of military service, the value of community, the importance of mental health support, and the need to make sure veterans know they are never forgotten.

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In this episode of The Israeli Bond on hmTv, host Gal Swisa Cohen welcomes Gal Atia, Head of Delegation and Chief Program Officer for North America at the Jewish Agency for Israel.

Gal shares his personal journey from serving as a basketball coach at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin to leading one of the Jewish Agency’s most important North American missions. Through stories from summer camp, shlichut, and Jewish communal life, he explains how Israeli emissaries build lasting relationships, strengthen Jewish identity, and create meaningful bridges between Israel and Jewish communities across North America.

The conversation explores the power of shlichut, the unique role of Israeli emissaries, the impact of summer camps, the importance of partnerships, and the Jewish Agency’s work after October 7. Gal also discusses programs such as Campers Together, which brings Israeli children from impacted communities to North American camps, and reflects on why this moment calls for collaboration, action, and renewed mutual responsibility.

This episode offers an inspiring look at how personal connection, purpose, and people-to-people relationships can strengthen the bond between Israel and Jewish communities around the world.

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In this episode of Many Voices. One Community on hmTv, host Gaitley Stevenson Mathews welcomes Kate Csillag, founder of Knit with Kate, for a warm and inspiring conversation about the power of knitting, crocheting, service, and human connection.

Kate shares how fiber arts have been part of her life since childhood and how she now uses knitting and crochet to bring people together across Glen Cove, Bayville, libraries, senior centers, temples, and community spaces. What begins with yarn and needles becomes something far greater: a place of belonging, friendship, healing, and purpose.

Together, Gaitley and Kate explore how creative arts can bridge differences, reduce loneliness, and build community among people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Kate also discusses her group’s charitable work, including a remarkable veterans drive that collected more than 1,600 handmade and donated items, as well as ongoing donations of blankets and other items to veterans, shelters, and those in need.

This heartfelt episode reminds us that community can be built one stitch, one conversation, and one act of kindness at a time.

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In this episode of Many Voices. One Community on hmTv, host Gaitley Stevenson Mathews welcomes Dr. Gina Florio, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Molloy University, for a thoughtful conversation about education, leadership, mentorship, and the lasting value of a liberal arts foundation.

Dr. Florio shares her personal journey from growing up in Middle Village, Queens, to discovering her passion for laboratory-based chemistry at Vassar College, continuing her academic path through Purdue University and Columbia University, and ultimately dedicating her career to higher education. She reflects on the professor who helped change the trajectory of her life and how that experience continues to inspire her work with students today.

Together, Gaitley and Dr. Florio explore the deep connection between science and the arts, the importance of curiosity and creativity, and the role of educators in helping students find confidence, purpose, and direction. They also discuss Molloy University’s commitment to service, community, ethical leadership, first-generation students, and the changing needs of Long Island’s diverse student population.

This inspiring conversation reminds us that education is not only about acquiring knowledge. It is about building character, strengthening community, and preparing students to serve the greater good.

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In this episode of Disrupting Hate on hmTv, host Ken Schachter welcomes William G. Holst, former assistant county attorney in Suffolk County, longtime member of the Smithtown Anti-Bias Task Force, and author of Bicentennial Trifecta. Together, they explore how bias and hate can surface even in communities that see themselves as welcoming, and why early education is essential in preventing hate from taking root.

Holst reflects on the origins of the Smithtown Anti-Bias Task Force, created after swastikas were found on a high school graduation field in Commack, and discusses the importance of school-based programs, bias-free zones, community partnerships, and helping young people understand that hateful acts are not harmless pranks, but deeply damaging messages. The conversation also touches on the changing diversity of Long Island, the challenge of proving intent in hate crime cases, and the ongoing need for local action, awareness, and education.

The episode concludes with a look at Holst’s background in journalism, law, military service, and his historical fiction novel Bicentennial Trifecta, which follows an Army journalist during America’s Bicentennial year.

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