lego robotics team innovates
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Fourth grade students in Franklin Square learn about the past during a hands-on experience with old-school technology, toys and school supplies at the Franklin Square Historical Society Museum. Story, additional photos, Page 3.
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For the members of Elmont Memorial High School’s Model United Nations, working with other students from schools around the world has opened their eyes to new perspectives.
Madison Gayle, the club’s vice president, said her experience at the international University of California at Berkeley Model UN Conference March 7-10 gave her invaluable new perspective on how other students learn. The conference, which has run for 72 years, welcomed 2,000 students this year.
Iaward in the conference’s and International Security Committee, said that the experience was “refreshing and enlightening.”
Giselly Romero, the Elmont Model UN’s treasurer, described the conference as an “eye-opening” experience, with opportunities to work with students from other countries.
t’s a unique program that only private schools in America have, for the most part.NkENGE GIllIAM Elmont Model United Nations Program adviser
“Being able to see other students in real life and just gain perspective on truly how the world is, and being able to see that at such a young age, is really a privilege that I feel really grateful for,” Gayle said.
Christopher Cherry, assistant treasurer of the club and a recipient of a best delegate
“Being a Spanish speaker myself, and seeing how those students travel and their experiences, along with me in the West Coast, it’s really an enlightening experience,” Romero said.
The Elmont students earned seven committee awards at the event, including a best position award in the Economic and Financial Council, Cherry’s best delegate award and a best school award.
The Elmont student delegates represented the Bahamas, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brunei, India, Mala-
Continued on page 5
Students from the Franklin Square school district had the chance to travel back in time with their education at the Franklin Square Historical Society’s Museum on Naple Avenue on March 22.
The museum, which is open the first Sunday of every month, has been educating fourth graders about the past in Franklin Square for the past three years. The students learn more about the history of technology such as type writers and dial phones, toys from generations passed, what school was like in the 20th Century, how people lived in their homes, and how to deposit and withdrawal money at a bank.
Volunteers like Joanna Skop, Keven Spitaliere, Adrienne McKenna, Elanor Molina, MaryAnne Grey and Julie Soffientini teach the students with historical artifacts collected by the historical society.
The program started to welcome first graders from Franklin Square schools last year to learn about technology and toys of the past.
The program runs from January through the summer months at the museum in partnership with the Franklin Square school district. To learn more about the historical society and its museum, FSHistoricalSociety.org.
–Nicole Wagner
County Legislator Carrié Solages and his colleagues in the Legislature’s Minority Caucus voted to allocate $950,000 in American Rescue Plan Act, also known as ARPA, funds toward the Nassau County Police Athletic League, also known as NCPAL, in support of their countywide youth enrichment programming and services on March 25.
NCPAL operates more than three-dozen local clubs including its divisions in Elmont and Valley Stream. Its mission is to “operate youth clubs and provide sports, crafts, educational and other programs of a team and individual nature for all boys and girls in Nassau County” with the intent of steering children toward the camaraderie of healthy, organized activities and fostering positive interactions between police officers and youth.
The funding was drawn from $15 million in federally allocated ARPA money that was set aside by the Legislature for various not-for-profit organizations and special districts that deliver ARPAapproved services.
The fund was created to allocate ARPA resources for the intended purposes of bolstering programs that addressed critical needs arising from the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Not only does the Nassau PAL do tremendous work to enrich the lives of our youngsters, their programs help to strengthen bonds between law enforcement professionals and the communities they are entrusted with serving and protecting,” Solages said.
On March 3, an unidentified woman allegedly stole items from Target on Hempstead Turnpike in Elmont at 4:45 p.m.
On March 5, an unidentified person stole a package from a residence on Hendrickson Avenue in Elmont.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
Step
Understanding the Family Dynamics. Clients often overlook the inestimable value of getting to know the family dynamic. We are firm believers that the social goes first and the legal should serve the social. Too often it is the other way around. Once we understand who’s who and everyone’s interpersonal relations with each other, we are far better able to craft a plan that will work socially as well as legally. The failure to address the social aspects has led to many a plan tearing the family apart.
Step Two: Reviewing the Client’s Assets. IRA’s and other “qualified” assets (i.e. tax deferred) are treated quite differently, on death or disability, from “non-qualified” assets. The determination of the amount and value of all assets, who owns them, and whether they have named beneficiaries are of the utmost importance in planning correctly, including
saving legal fees and taxes.
Step Three: Reviewing Existing Estate Planning Documents: Not having been prepared by an elder law estate planning attorney, clients’ documents rarely have adequate provisions to take advantage of the many benefits the law provides for our aging population. Wills instead of trusts have often been prepared either because the client was considerably younger and a trust was not needed or a trust was needed but the general practice lawyer was unfamiliar with the specifics of preparing a trust.
Step Four: Developing the Elder Law Estate Plan. We are now in a position to determine which persons are best suited to handle your legal, financial and medical affairs on disability or death, what type of plan should be used and how the estate should be distributed -- keeping in mind the preservation of harmony in the family.
Step Five: Executing and Maintaining the Plan. Legal documents are explained and executed, assets are retitled and beneficiaries on assets changed in keeping with planning objectives. The client is called in to the law firm every three years to ensure the plan meets the client’s current wishes and conforms with any law changes.
A man was arrested in Franklin Square for allegedly storing explosives at a home on Morton Avenue on March 19 at 2:45 p.m.
Nassau County Police Department’s Arson Bomb Squad responded to a fire at a home on Morton Avenue where a garage was engulfed in flames Tuesday afternoon.
The fire spread to the fence of another Morton Avenue home and the garage of a Hewlett Street home. During the fire, fireworks ignited in the garage of the Morton Avenue house it originated from.
fire within the home.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries have been reported.
Louis Distefano
The fireworks landed on a couch in the living room of the Morton Avenue house the fire originated at and started a
Louis Distefano, 57, of Morton Avenue in Franklin Square, was charged with alleged unlawful storage of explosives and unlawful possession of explosives without licenses and certificates. He was arraigned on March 20 in Hempstead First District Court.
The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department, Arson Bomb Squad, Nassau County Fire Marshall and Town of Hempstead Building Department all responded to the scene.
Nassau police reported shots fired at a smoke shop in Elmont around 2:22 p.m. on March 18.
A man, wearing dark clothing, allegedly shot into the strorefront of N2 Smoke and Cigar Shop on Hempstead Turnpike. Police said he ran east on Hempstead Turnpike after damaging the store’s front glass window during the shooting.
No injuries were been reported and
the investigation is ongoing.
Crime Stoppers and the Nassau County Polcie Department are asking the public to help identify the man who allegedly shot into the smoke shop on March 18.
Anyone who can identify this man or has any information about this incident can call 1-800—244-8477. All calls are kept confidential.
–Nicole Wagnerwi, Romania and Zambia. They developed UN-style resolutions focusing on issues such as the Venezuelan economic crisis, vigilante violence in global conflicts and combating dependence on foreign aid in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Members of the Elmont delegation included Gayle, Cherry, Romero, Elissa Acheampong, Jayson Bhoorasingh, Ruthann Collins, Joseley Jean, Alex Lalbachan, Yalisah Lozada, Imani Lyons, Kiara Membreno, Videsh Muneshwar, Nwadiuto Onyeobia, Varda Qudratullah, Maya Reyes and Kassie Rosier.
During the conference, Gayle explained, the delegates researched and created policies that addressed issues that were presented to them. They debated formally and informally with their fellow delegates, with the goal of creating resolution papers.
The Model UN program at Elmont High started in 1978, and serves as a flagship program for the Sewanhaka school district.
“It’s a community-supported program, and the parents are highly involved, making financial sacrifices to give their children this unique activity,” adviser Nkenge Gilliam, a social studies teacher at the high school, said. The cost of attending the conference was $2,000 per student.
“It’s a unique program that only pri-
dures of the conference they will be attending. The first conference the students attended this year was held at Princeton University from Nov. 16-19.
“We practice public speaking every single day,” Gilliam said. “And we do a lot of impromptu speaking, because I want the students to be ready. Because if you’re ready, you don’t have to get ready.”
The current club members started training for conferences with Gilliam virtually in 2020 and 2021. The transition from virtual to in-person conferences, she said, was a major transition for students last year.
Gayle said that this year the group learned how to work together well in person.
“A lot of us were also trained virtually,” she said, “so having that experience and learning how to be in person, and the importance of things like body language, and the things that you really don’t notice unless you’re in a room with a bunch of people your age — I feel like we really got to grow in that aspect.”
Gayle added that she and her peers developed valuable teamwork skills, working with students from other schools as well as one another.
vate schools in America have, for the most part,” Gilliam said. “Very, very few public school district programs finance Model UN.”
The students review parliamentary
procedures with Gilliam during meetings on most school days at 7 a.m. Before conferences, which students usually take part in twice per academic year, they review the specific proce -
“We learned the value of being able to have team chemistry and being able to support each other and uplift each other,” she said. “I think it really has paid off this year.”
Stewart Manor School’s Lego Robotics team had a successful season, participating in both the FIRST Lego League Challenge’s FIRST Long Island Qualifier in January and the FIRST Long Island Championship on March 10.
The team participated in the MASTERPIECE challenge, tasked with imagining and innovating new ways to create and communicate art across the globe.
Students in fourth, fifth and sixth grade comprised the team, which underwent an application process. Under the
guidance of advisers Parveen Rampal and James Ristano, the students created a virtual museum.
At the qualifier event in January, the team received the Champion’s Award for their design, as well as the opportunity to advance to the championship round. They were once again victorious, as they were recognized as the FIRST Finalist for the Innovation Project Award at the championship in March.
This is the second year of the Lego Robotics team at Stewart Manor School.
Photos courtesy Elmont school district
Stewart Manor School’s Lego Robotics team is recognized as the FIRST Finalist for the Innovation Project Award at the championship in March.
The Hofstra baseball team missed out on a chance to defend its conference title last year and is fueled for a return to the championship stage in late May this spring.
After reaching the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history during a magical 2022 season, the Pride bats were driven back to earth in 2023 with an eighth-place finish that left the team just short of qualifying for its league’s sixteam double-elimination tournament held Memorial Day weekend.
This season the Pride were picked ninth in the 12 team Coastal Athletic Association and is looking to prove the doubters wrong to have an opportunity to once again compete for the conference’s automatic bid into the NCAAs.
“We got off to a slow start and then towards the end of the season we started playing better and we just missed out on making the tournament,” said third-year Hofstra head coach Frank Catalanotto, a former 14-year Major League Baseball player from 1997 to 2010 with the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays, Milwaukee Brewers and New York Mets. “It’s a motivating factor for not only the coaching staff, but also for the student athletes to be ready to play these games.”
Hofstra began the 2024 season with two narrow losses to then 14th-ranked Virginia before taking two of three from Liberty and New Mexico on the road the following two weekends. The Pride entered the start of CAA with two close losses at Columbia and Fordham.
Senior catcher Matt Pelcher, a Merrick native, has emerged as one of Hofstra’s leading hitters this season with a .328 average entering the CAA schedule. Pelcher, who played high school baseball at the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida, hit a home run in an 10-8 season-opening loss at Virginia and went 3-for-4 in a narrow 3-2 defeat at St. John’s on March 8.
“He’s made big strides with his swing and has really bought into what we’ve been teaching,” said Catalanotto of
Pelcher, who registered an RBI double in Hofstra’s 12-8 loss at Columbia on March 19. “He’s a big part of what we do and his versatility helps us out quite a bit.”
Pelcher is among four starters hitting above .300, including sophomore Dylan Palmer at a team-leading .450 starting the conference schedule. He earned Second Team All-CAA and CAA All-Rookie honors as a freshman. Senior outfielder Alex McCoy and graduate student third baseman Santino Ross are also shining offensively so far with .364 and .386 batting averages, respectively.
Catalanotto is also hoping two of his other top hitters, Will Kennedy and Steve Harrington, can produce during the CAA schedule after hitting slumps in March.
The pitching staff is led by senior Michael O’Hanlon, who recorded seven strikeouts in a 9-1 victory against Manhattan College on March 15. O’Hanlon
has stepped into the ace role after serving as the closer the last two years.
The Pride has a number of pitching options out of the bullpen including Rockville Centre native Danny Kelleher, a former South Side High School standout who tossed three scoreless innings in a 9-6 loss at New Mexico on March 3. Catalanotto is hoping Kelleher can continue to make strides on the mound and live up to his full potential.
“He’s been doing a good job and he’s gotten much better from last year,” Catalanotto said of Kelleher. “He’s throwing a lot of two seam fastballs that sink and also a good change-up so he’s keeping the ball down and getting ground balls.”
Another local arm on the roster is freshman Nick Apollo, who earned All-
County accolades at Seaford High School last year and led the Vikings to a county title. The versatile Apollo, who Catalanotto sees potential in for a strong future, received playing time at first base in a 17-6 loss to Manhattan on March 16.
Hofstra travels to longtime CAA foe Towson this weekend before hosting Delaware in another critical three-game conference series from April 5-7. The CAA regular schedule concludes at home against Monmouth on May 18 before the conference tournament commences from May 22-28 at UNC-Wilmington.
“It’s a really tough conference,” Catalanotto said of the CAA, which added last year’s 22nd-ranked team Campbell this season. “We are going to have to bring our best every single game.”
Aviva Kane, director of the Franklin Square Public Library, received the Community Service Award from George Duffy, executive director of SCOPE Educational Service, at SCOPE Educational Services’ 23rd annual School District Awards Dinner held at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook on March 18.
Aviva Kane, director of the Franklin Square Public Library, received the Community Service Award at SCOPE Educational Services’ 23rd annual School District Awards Dinner held at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook on March 18.
Kane was nominated by the Franklin Square school district for her
efforts to collaborate with the school district, supporting summer reading, providing tutoring in partnership with H. Frank Carey High School, facilitating “Coffee with the Superintendent” events, and promoting library card registration at school events.
–Nicole Wagner
A new L.E.D. stop sign is unveiled at the intersection of Belmont Boulevard and Johnson Avenue in Elmont near Clara H. Carlson Elementary School on March 6. Students, Principal Stacia Walfall, assistant principals Richard Mansfield and Melissa Pozella, Superintendent Kenneth Card, teacher aide Georgina Rivieccio, Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Tom Muscarella and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll celebrate the installation of the sign.
Community members enjoyed Franklin Square-based nonprofit Rescuing Families’ third annual Night at the Races fundraiser on March 15 at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2718.
Silent auctions, hosted by Long Island Silent Auctions, offered items like sports memorabilia, designer handbags, movie memorabilia and more for attendees to bid on.
Event participants enjoyed the interactive horse race, where people owned a horse and selected a rider to take part in the festivities. People cheered on horses as they went around the track and people placed bets on the horse that they believed would be the winner.
The annual derby hate competition at the event saw a number of entries from festive event goers.
To learn more about upcoming events and how to get involved with Rescuing Families, visit RescuingFamilies.org.
–Nicole Wagner
Theresa Belmonte, Barbara Donohue, Diane McCroary and Debbie Acosta volunteer to help out at Rescuing Families’ Night at the Races fundraiser on March 15.
Students at Elmont’s Dutch Broadway School in from kindergarten through sixth grade showed their families what they learned and have been working on in their winter clubs on Feb. 15.
The clubs were held from Dec. 5 through Feb. 15 at the school before the students showcased their skills at the showcase last month.
Eighteen winter clubs were offered this school year, including 3D printer
and Lego, art, broadcasting, chess, drones, fashion, fitness, mindfulness, science and Science Technology Engineering and Math, also known as STEAM, clubs.
New clubs added this year were art sculpture, board games, chess for second, third and fourth graders, chorus and composition, ad sign language.
–Nicole Wagner
Students showcase their projects they worked on during winter clubs at Dutch Broadway School in Elmont.
Direct
cjdagostino@gmail.com www.charlesdagostino.com
An advocacy group determined to save local news in New York rallied in Albany in an effort to bring more lawmakers to their cause.
The Empire State Local News Coalition — a statewide advocacy group of more than 150 local news outlets — joined elected officials at the state capital last week to support the Local Journalism Sustainability Act.
OThe bill — sponsored by state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner — is intended to provide tax credits to local news outlets that employ journalists in their communities. HoylmanSigal joined the rally, along with colleagues like Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, state Sen. Monica Martinez, and Assemblyman David Weprin.
ur local papers are here. They are objective. They provide information. And we need to preserve that.
“This is a full-blown crisis,” HoylmanSigal told those who gathered for the rally in the halls of the capital building. “We live in a deliberative democracy. That means our voters need to be informed to make wise choices. How are they informed? Largely through local news.”
The senate included the Local Journalism Sustainability Act in its One House budget resolution, which organizers describe as a major sign of the bill’s growing support in the legislature.
Both the senate and the Assembly release preliminary One House budgets in response to the governor’s own preliminary budget, which was released earlier this year. The state’s final budget is due April 1, and policies in the final budget almost always must be in one of the three preliminary budgets.
“It is time that New York state steps up and supports one of the most important industries — not just to our economic well-being, but to our democracy,” Hoylman-Sigal said. “The Local Journalism Sustainability Act, which is part of the senate One House budget, will assist in that regard.”
The rally was intended to signal growing pressure on lawmakers to offer much-needed benefits to the local news industry, which has experienced a significant downturn over the past two decades.
The state has lost hundreds of newspapers since 2004, resulting in the loss of not only thousands of jobs, but also thousands of stories that helped keep communities informed. In fact, there are a growing number of communities with little to no access to local newspaper coverage, according to coalition officials. More than a dozen New York counties are down to just one newspaper.
Capped at $20 million statewide, the Local Journalism Sustainability Act is a bill with bipartisan support that provides payroll tax credits for the employment of local news journalists.
News organizations would receive a 50 percent refundable tax credit against the first $50,000 of each newsroom employee’s salary — up to $200,000 per outlet.
The benefit would be limited to print and online newspapers and broadcasters, with 100 employees or less, that cover local community news. This, sup-
porters say, ensures that only truly local news outlets will qualify for this assistance.
“Someone once said that ‘newspapers are the textbooks of democracy, and the lifeblood of freedom,’ and that’s a responsibility newsrooms like ours take very seriously,” said Michael Hinman, executive editor of Herald Community Newspapers, which employs more than 30 journalists across 24 newspapers on Long Island and in New York City.
“Communities depend on their local newspaper, because there is nowhere
else you’re going to get the news about and for your neighborhood, written by someone who knows your neighborhood. Time and time again, it’s been proven that the best communities in America are communities with a strong, local newspaper. And if we don’t do something now, those great communities will be lost to history.”
But in order for this particular bill to move forward, it needs to be supported not just by the senate, but also by the Assembly and by Gov. Kathy Hochul, so that it is included in the final state budget.
“The fight to save local news is a fight to save our democracy,” said Zachary Richner, founder of the Empire State Local News Coalition and director of Richner Communications — the parent company of Herald Community Media.
“Hometown newspapers deliver the hyperlocal updates and investigations necessary to sustain a community’s civic and financial well-being. As local news declines, critical stories are lost, and communities become more polarized.
“We’re proud to have the senate’s support, and we call on Gov. Hochul and the Assembly to support this industry-saving bill and protect critical newsroom jobs.”
Michaelle Solages says she’ll continue to push for the bill’s inclusion in the final state budget with her colleagues in the Assembly.
“We’re continuing our work on Long Island making sure the local story — the story that matters to individual New Yorkers — are heard,” Solages said. “But we really need to make sure we are investing into our community, investing into local journalism, and combatting this growing social media that is spreading misinformation.
“Our local papers are here. They are objective. They provide information. And we need to preserve that.”
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Happy Easter to you and your families! Thank you for your love for the inspired Word of God. Thank you for your love for the Resurrection appearances of our
storms of history” and we rely on the Risen Lord and his glorified wounds to touch the wounds in Ukraine, the Middle East, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Armenia and Azerbaijan, the region of the Sahel, the Horn of Africa and Sudan, as well as Cameroon, the Dem
The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium is starting to take form in Eisenhower Park.
The temporary 34,000-seat venue will serve as one of the hosting locations for the 2024 International Cricket Council Men’s T20 World Cup, set to take place this June in locations that also include Florida, Texas and the West Indies. And Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman emphasized Eisenhower Park’s involvement by joining ICC officials and renowned professional cricketers at a parade last week to officially bring the World Cup’s trophy “home.”
The trophy was displayed underneath an American flag arch, set up by the East Meadow Fire Department, and escorted by the Nassau County Police Department, dozens of emergency vehicles, bagpipers, and the county’s mounted unit to the stadium site.
“We are in the process of constructing this beautiful stadium that will be here for the duration of the tournament,” Blakeman said. “It’s going to be a great venue for everybody to enjoy cricket. There’ll be so many countries that will be here with their teams — we will have fans from all over the world.”
Eight games are slated for Nassau over the course of 12 days. Eisenhower Park will actually host one of the most highly anticipated games of the tournament — India vs. Pakistan — which both consistently fielding some of the best cricketers in the game.
The Cricket World Cup is the third-most popular sporting event across the globe, only behind the FIFA World Cup and the Tour de France.
“We call it the Super Bowl on steroids,” Blakeman said.
The stadium was designed by Populous, an architec-
the initial ballot,” Geoff Allardice, the ICC’s chief executive said. “I’m delighted to confirm today that we’ve worked closely with our partners to release more tickets to 51 of the 55 games of the event.”
For those unable to purchase tickets, Blakeman says the county will set up watch parties in various locations details of which will be announced at a later date.
Allardice also thanked the county and Blakeman for their support, saying the ICC had “found a true partner” that supports the council’s “vision and ambition.” The stadium had originally been planned for the Bronx, but moved to Nassau County after considerable resistance from neighbors surrounding Van Cortlandt Park there.
“It’s fantastic to stand here today and see our vision come to life,” Allardice said.
Ali Khan, a Pakistani-born American cricketer who plays for the United States, says he’s excited about returning home for the upcoming games.
“It’s really good to be here in Nassau County this morning — good to see all the people coming out,” Khan said. “We cannot wait to take the field here.”
Team USA will compete against India on June 12 in Eisenhower.
ture firm also responsible for creating Yankee Stadium, Citi Field and the UBS Arena, among others. The initiative is privately funded, and the stadium is being built in the open space behind the park’s aquatic center, adjacent to Field 6.
Tickets for games have been hard to obtain, but ICC officials say fans may still be able to secure some.
“The levels of interest in being part of the event are huge, with more than 3 million ticket applications in
“That’s going to be a huge game for us as a host country,” Khan said. “I wish (that) a lot of people come, especially local supporters. Get your tickets now and come support your home team, Team USA.”
As part of county’s negotiations with the ICC, the stadium will be disassembled after the tournament, but the state-of-the-art cricket field will be left in place, along with practice facilities in Cantiague Park in Hicksville.
Local cricket teams and leagues will be able to use the fields when the tournament ends.
“Cricket,” Blakeman said, “is here forever now.”
Everyone has a golden ticket to the Chocolate ExpoBy Danielle Schwab
or the love of chocolate, there’s a sweet treat awaiting everyone at this year’s Chocolate Expo.
The popular event — proclaimed as one of the largest chocolate showcases in the United States — is back, ready to tantalize all on April 14.
Chocoholics will delight in the day-long food paradise. An array of 90-plus vendors — including those representing Long Island, New England and even international purveyors — will share their sweet and savory wares with the public during this unique food-centric festival at the David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University.
Robert Neary honors an icon with a tribute show like no other. With more than 35 years as a Broadway, television and film actor, Neary brings a special flair to his tribute show. With his powerful presence, from the moment he struts on stage wearing trademark black, gray, and silver sequined jacket, Neary, uncannily resembles Neil Diamond at the height of his touring career in the ‘90s and 2000s. His wit and mannerisms on stage are spot on, especially when he plays his guitar. When he speaks and tells the stories and trivia behind some of Neil’s most popular songs, his rich baritone gravelly voice can easily be mistaken for Neil’s own speaking voice. The title says it all. It is the quintessential Neil Diamond concert experience that concludes with a mind-blowing finale.
Saturday, March 30, 8 p.m. $49.50, $39.50, $35, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY. com.
“We have a wide variety of interesting products,” says Marvin Baum, the Chocolate Expo’s founder and creator. “It’s like going to a wine tasting. You’re trying something different and exploring. That’s really what it is, for people to come and explore all kinds of culinary delights. In this case, it’s with chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, wines, cheeses and other products as well.”
Celebrate and indulge in delicious gourmet goodies — even treats for your beloved pooch. Of course, tasting is very much a part of the event, starting from the moment you enter.
• April 14, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• $20 adult, $10 ages 5-12 ($30 adult, $15 ages 5-12 at door); available from TheChocolateExpo.com
• Hofstra’s David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex, Hempstead
The scrumptious combination of savory and sweet includes chocolate-covered pretzels, artisanal chocolates, bonbons, fudge, rum cakes, hot chocolate, and even chocolate-covered bacon.
And, certainly, no chocolate event would be complete without big chocolate fountains. Guests are greeted by fountains overflowing with dark, white and milk chocolates, which can deliciously drench a selection of fresh fruit, marshmallows pretzels and Rice Krispies Treats.
Visitors will surely enjoy another special treat: An appearance by actors from the original 1971 film “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt), Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee), and Rusty Goffe (who in addition to playing an Oompa Loompa, has also been in five of the Harry Potter movies and in Star Wars ), are the festival’s special guests. Baum proudly proclaims this is the first Wonka cast reunion at a chocolate event.
“We found that there was a true emotional connection for a lot of people, between the movie and their own lives — whether it be with good memories with the family or as being part of an escape,” he says. “And so, for that reason, we think that a lot of people on Long Island are going to respond to and be really excited to see this get-together of the Wonka characters.”
If your palate reaches sensory overload, take a break to check out some of the many activities that round out the day. Shows and demonstrations include chocolate smashing, where participants can break a part of high-quality chocolate molds with hammers. There’s also a demonstration with DJ Chef, the first winner of Food Network’s “Cuthroat Kitchen,” known for spinning tunes while cooking.
The youngest “fun-sized” visitors will enjoy Kidz Zone, enticing them with face painting, balloon twisting and crafts.
The festival, according to Baum, has now taken on a life of its own.
“I said, ‘We need to do something where New York businesses can actually make some money. Instead of just doing tastings, let’s do something where we’re tasting and have sales.’ And basically, that became the first New York Chocolate Expo.”
Participating chocolatiers, bakers and related purveyors offer a mindboggling collection of goodies.
Among the enthusiastic local returnees, Wantagh-based Uncle Jeff’s Pecan Pies is not to be missed. Owner Jeff Church participated for the first time last year, and enthusiastically reports the response to his offerings was “beyond belief.” He’ll offer both his all-natural chocolate and regular pecan pies again this year.
“As soon as they opened the doors, people swarmed the tables saying ‘one of these,’ ‘one of those,’” he says. “It was insane.”
Another bakery, Valley Stream’s Chez Hedwidge, caters to folks with dietary restrictions. All products are gluten-free and soy-free, with vegan options available. Edwidge Oriol — who owns the business with her husband — has been involved with the Chocolate Expo for five years.
“Those who have these (dietary) challenges, they deserve a good treat,” she says.
Among the items Oriol will ll bring is her gluten-free chocolate tart, which won third place in a Culinary Federation of Long Island competition.
Whether you’re looking to grab your local faves or find a new delicious obsession, the expo is the place to indulge in some chocolatey fun.
“Everybody is welcome,” Baum says. “All the noise of day-to-day life, all that’s pushed to the side. We want to get together, have a good time, share memories, share some good food, and support local businesses.”
The Academy of St. Martin in the Fields is recognized for fresh, brilliant interpretations of the world’s greatest orchestral music.
Formed by Sir Neville Mariner in 1958 from a group of London’s leading musicians, it’s become one of the world’s most respected orchestral ensembles. Joshua Bell, music director and Grammywinning violinist, has performed with virtually every major orchestra in the world, and is one of the most celebrated artists of his era. Led by violin virtuoso Bell, this performance showcases Mendelssohn’s deeply emotive Violin Concerto, with Bell himself taking the stage as both soloist and leader. The program also includes Rossini’s Il barbiere di Siviglia Overture, and Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in C major, Op. 61. Set out with Bell and the orchestra on a passionate musical journey of passion and triumph as the extraordinary ensemble demonstrates their artistry.
Friday, March 29, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $80. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Mexican
musical multi-hyphenate and Lincoln Center regular Jaime Lozano appears on the Tilles Center stage with his Familia, an all-star Latin lineup of Broadway and OffBroadway performers, Saturday, April 6, 8 p.m.
Heralded by none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda as “the next big thing,” Lozano’s newest work, “Songs by an Immigrant,” is a musical journey about diversity and integration.
Lozano honestly portrays the challenges of the first- and second-generation middle class U.S. immigrant experience: finding a new home, learning a new language, dealing with discrimination, pursuing the American Dream, and searching for ways to build bridges instead of walls. His Familia includes Mauricio Martínez, Shereen Pimentel and Mayelah Barrera, as well as a nine-piece orchestra. The spectacular celebration of Latin talent includes special guests who are students from Long Island University’s Theatre Arts Department, which adds an exciting dynamic to the performance, showcasing the next generation of rising stars in the industry. The collaboration between these seasoned professionals and up-and-coming talents is sure to create a truly unforgettable experience for all who attend. “Songs by an Immigrant” is an inspiring celebration of the immigrant odyssey. Tickets start at $50; available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.
Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance, Saturday, April 6, 2 p.m., at the Elmont Library Theatre. In this spirited show music is on the menu as the cast travels back to different years in the past to find clues and knowledge to save the Melody Diner from demolition. A cast of 35 keeps the action moving along, with a live band. The singers and dancers performs current hits, oldies and also tunes from the Broadway stage. Free admission. Elmont Memorial Library Theater, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. (516) 3545280 or LICabaret@aol.com.
Join Marc Black for “History of 1950s and 1960s through Popular Song with Marc Black,” Friday, April 5, 12:30 p.m. Enjoy the multi-media presentation with songs, storytelling and laughter. 700 Hempstead Turnpike. For more information, visit ElmontLibrary.org or call (516) 354-5280 ext. 223.
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “Urban Art Evolution,” is a comprehensive exhibit featuring a diverse range of compositions from the 1980s through the present by creators who were based in the rough and tumble downtown area of New York City known as Loisaida/LES (Lower East Side/East Village) and close surrounding neighborhoods.
Artists pushed the boundaries of what was considered “art” with a primary focus on street/graffiti art. The exhibit’s scope, guest curated by art collector/gallerist Christopher Pusey, offers an even broader view from other creative residents, who worked inside their studios but still contributed to the rich fabric of the downtown art scene from different vantage points and aesthetics.
Works include sculpture, paintings, photography, music, and ephemera from many noted and influential artists. On view through July 7. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
The North Shore Symphony Orchestra is joined by Broadway and New York cabaret stars for “Country Jukebox: Kenny, Dolly & Friends,” Saturday, April 6, 8 p.m., on Adelphi’s Performing Arts Center stage. Your toes will be tapping and your hands clapping during this evening of country classics from the 1950s to today’s hottest contemporary hits.
The dynamic performers, with North Shore Symphony, salute to such greats as Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, George Jones, The Judds, Carrie Underwood and more. Tickets start at $45, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 8774000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.
The Franklin Square Board of Education meets, Tuesday, April 16, 7 p.m., at Washington Street School in Franklin Square. 760 Washington St. For more information, contact (516) 4814100.
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art, Saturday, March 30, noon-3 p.m. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork.
Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit NassauMuseum.org for to register or call (516) 484-9337.
Franklin Square elementary school students are welcome to drop by Franklin Square Public Library for help with their homework, Wednesdays. Students will work in small groups with National Honor Society students from Carey High School. No registration required. 19 Lincoln Road. For more information, visit FranklinSquarePl.org or call (516) 488-3444.
Enjoy the popular orchestra, as it continues its season, with special guests Deborah Lifton and the Adea Quartet, Saturday, April 6, 7:30 p.m., at the Madison Theatre. Program includes Rachmaninoff’s “Symphonic Dances,” Op. 45; Samuel Barber’s “Knoxville: Summer of 1915,” Op. 24; and Robert Schumann’s “Concertpiece for 4 Horns”, Op. 45. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at MadisonTheatreNY.org or (516) 323-4444.
Franklin Square Historical Society honors Franklin Square veterans and Boy Scout Troop 93, Friday, April 26, at 6:30 p.m., at Plattduetsche Park.
IIf you know of a Franklin Square veteran the Historical Society can honor, contact Bill Youngfert at (516) 775-7260.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
Sands Point Preserve offers another in its series of Forest Bathing walks, led by certified guide Linda Lombardo, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m.-noon. Based on the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-Yoku, a wellness practice developed in the 1980s, the walk, on the grounds of the former summer residence of Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim, inspires mindful connections with the natural elements of the woods for a range of healthful benefits. $40, $35 members. Registration required. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
Engine Company #3 of the Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department hosts its 27th annual Night at the Races fundraiser, Saturday, April 6. Enjoy exciting races, great prizes and games to win money. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the first race will start at 6:30 p.m. $30 entrance fee donation, includes food and beverages. For tickets and information, contact Lou Sabatino at (516) 523-9628 or email FSMFDENGINE3@gmail.com. 841 Liberty Place, Franklin Square.
All are invited to join Franklin Square School Superintendent Dr. Jared Bloom and Franklin Square Library Director Aviva Kane for coffee, Monday, April 8, at 6 p.m. Learn more about what’s going with the library and school district. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and share their feedback. 19 Lincoln Road. Visit FranklinSquarePL.org or call (516) 488-3444 for more information.
The Elmont Board of Education meets, Tuesday, April 9, 8 p.m. at Stewart Manor School. 38 Stewart Ave., Garden City. For more information, contact (516) 326-5500.
Sewanhaka Central High School District holds its monthly Board of Education meeting, Wednesday, April 17, 8 p.m. Meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month unless otherwise indicated. Meetings will be held in the library at Floral Park Memorial High School until further notice. For more information, contact (516) 488-9800.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NASSAU
RECOVCO MORTGAGE
MANAGEMENT, LLC; Plaintiff v. 1700 GROUP
LLC; et al.; Defendants.
Attorney for Plaintiff:
Hasbani & Light, P.C., 450 7th Ave, Suite 1408, NY, NY 10123; (212) 643-6677
Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale granted herein on 5/22/23, I will sell at Public Auction to the highest bidder on the north side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 4, 2024, at 2:00 PM Premises known as 116-23 237th Street, Elmont, NY 11003
Section: 32 Block: 626
Lot: 21,22
All that certain plot, piece, or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York.
As more particularly described in the judgment of foreclosure and sale.
Sold subject to the terms and conditions contained in said judgment and terms of sale.
Approximate amount of judgment: $781,924.13 plus interest and costs.
Index Number: 611929/2019
Roger Hausch, Esq., Referee 145272
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank of New York Mellon, f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Asset Backed Funding Corporation, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-HE1, Plaintiff
AGAINST
Enide St. Louis and Jacqueline St. Preux a/k/a Jacqueline St. Preux; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 21, 2022 and amended February 7, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 16, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 44 Village Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 32 Block 666 Lot 19. Approximate amount of judgment $626,505.65 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 003482/2011. The
auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Eugene Gamache, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff
175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: February 28, 2024 145434
LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK
MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR REGISTERED HOLDERS OF CWABS, INC., ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-13, Plaintiff, v.
VINCENT MCPHERSON, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LAVERN MCPHERSON A/K/A
LAVERN VERONICA
MCPHERSON A/K/A
LAVER DACOSTA A/K/A
LAVERN DACOSTAMCPHERSON, ET AL, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
THAT
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on December 16, 2022, I, Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on April 26, 2024 at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY, at 2:30PM the premises described as follows: 168 Freeman Avenue Elmont, NY 11003
Tax I.D. No. 37-371-285
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York
Subject to easements, covenants, and restriction of record.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 613803/2018 in the amount of $497,953.24 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.
Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604
Tel.: 855-227-5072 145431
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT.
NASSAU COUNTY. ASPEN PROPERTIES GROUP, LLC AS TRUSTEE OF AG3
REVOKABLE TRUST, Pltf. vs. JERRY CHAMPAGNE, et al, Defts. Index #601531/2020. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Feb. 7, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 17, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a 700 Donovan Street, Elmont, NY 11003 a/k/a Section 32, Block 705, Lot 50. Approximate amount of judgment is $178,912.04 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. JANE SHRENKEL, Referee. MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 165 Eileen Way, Ste. 101, Syosset, NY 11791. #101177 145427
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 9th day of April, 2024, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:
ELMONT
237TH STREET - east side, starting at a point 350 feet south of the south curbline of 116th Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-71/24)
OCEANSIDE
OCEANSIDE PARKWAYsouth side, starting at a point 70 feet east of the east curbline of St. Johns Road, east for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-74/24)
WANTAGH
MAPLE STREET - west side, starting at a point 116 feet north of the north curbline of Merrick Road, north for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-68/24)
And on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons: SEAFORD
MARTIN COURT - south side, starting at a point 25 feet west of the driveway apron of house 2839 Martin Court, west for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-236/23 - 08/1/23)
(TH-236C/23)
ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated: March 12, 2024 Hempstead, New York
BY ORDER OF THE TOWN
BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 145680
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that SEALED PROPOSALS for:
New Metering Vault at Birch Street Plant H2M
Project No.: WHWD2350 will be received by the Board of Commissioners of the West Hempstead Water District (Owner) at the office of the Water District, 575 Birch Street, West Hempstead, New York 11552, until 10:00 a.m., Prevailing Time on Wednesday, April 10th, and will be publicly opened and read aloud at 5:00 p.m.
Complete sets of Hard Copy Bidding Documents may be obtained from REV, 28 Church Street, Unit 7, Warwick, New York 10990, Tel: 1-845-651-3845, upon depositing the sum of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) for each combined set of documents. Checks or money orders shall be made payable to H2M architects + engineers. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms in the Information for Bidders to all submitting bids. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs.
As a convenience to the Contractor, Digital Bidding Documents may be obtained from the following website: h2mplanroom.com as an online download for a non-refundable fee of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00), paid by credit card.
Please note REV and h2mplanroom.com are the designated locations and means for distributing and obtaining all bid package information. All bidders are urged to register to ensure receipt of all necessary information, including bid addenda. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at h2mplanroom.com. Plan holders who have paid for hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the
Rabbi Art Vernon, of Congregation Shaaray shalom, in West Hempstead, is officially the president of the Long Island Board of Rabbis. Commander Gary Glick and Edward Freeberg, of the Jewish War Veterans Post 652, presented a plaque to Vernon during his inauguration at Shaaray Shalom. The original plaque is at Arlington National Cemetery.
The plaque honors Jewish Rabbis, or Chaplains, who were killed during World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War. Vernon knew one of the Jewish Chaplains killed during the Vietnam War. The plaque is part of a legacy that goes with holding the office of president of the Long Island Board of Rabbis, or LIBOR for short.
addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with REV for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda.
Each proposal submitted must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond, made payable to the West Hempstead Water District, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid, as a commitment by the bidder that, if its bid is accepted, it will enter into a contract to perform the work and will execute such further security as may be required for the faithful performance of the contract.
The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive any informalities and to accept such bid which, in the opinion of the Owner, is in the best interests of the Owner.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WEST HEMPSTEAD
WATER DISTRICT
C. John Sparacio, Chairman Joseph M. Marando, Treasurer Kenneth P. Wenthen, Jr., Secretary DATED: MARCH 28, 2024 145682
Said premises known as 815 FRANKLIN AVE, UNIT 4, FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY 11010
Approximate amount of lien $613,074.75 plus interest & costs.
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff -againstUNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH TANTALO, as if they be dead, etc..., et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated March 7, 2024 and entered on March 12, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 2, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as Section 35 Block 496 Lot 83.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.
Index Number 612238/2017.
MALACHY LYONS, JR., ESQ., Referee DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP
PLLC
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590
For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
DLG# 38723
{*Elmont Herald*}
145662
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, ISANTHES, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. URSULE PLAISIMOND, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order
Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 22, 2023, I, the undersigned
Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court
Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 157 Hendrickson Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 354 and Lots 30-32.
Approximate amount of judgment is $730,888.72 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #602171/2022. This foreclosure sale will be held on the north side steps of the Courthouse, rain or shine. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the Court Appointed Referee will cancel the sale.
Peter Famighetti, Esq., Referee
Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 145668
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED
Will Certify And Train HS Diploma
NYS License Clean 3 Years
$20 - $25/ Hour
Call 516-731-3000
Join the Village of South Floral Park team as our new Deputy Clerk!
Are you self motivated and good with being the go-to person for an organization? Do you thrive in managing a variety of tasks from social media updates to crucial village operations? If so, we want you! Bring your experience, Microsoft and QuickBooks skills, and top-notch communication abilities to a role where no two days are alike. Dive into a part-time position where you'll make a real impact, from handling important documents to leading in the Administrator's absence.
Ready to make a difference?
Email your resume and salary expectations to villageclerk383@optimum.net or fax to 516-352-0651.
Only selected candidates will be contacted for interviews. Thank you for considering a career with us!
Health Care/Opportunities
WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED!!!
HHA's, LPN's, Nurse's Aides Childcare, Housekeeping Day Workers No Fee To Employers
516-505-5510
Situations Wanted
ADMINISTRATOR AVAILABLE To Work
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Eldercare Offered
COMPANION AVAILABLE : Care For The Elderly. Own Car. Live-in/ Out. $20+/ Hr.
References. Yvonne 516-417-4411
SANTA CRUZ SERAG Caregivers Provide The Best Male/ Female Caregivers In America. Certified HHA's, Professional. Experts In Dementia, Alzheimers, Parkinsons Cases. Live-in/Out. Gertrude 347-444-0960
Business/Opportunities
Professional Websites Designer, Hosting, Domain Registration, Website Teaching, Periodic Websites Updates, Tech Support, Images, Brochures, Data Processing, Custom Crystal Reports, ChatGpt Email Setup, Construction AIA Requisitions, Construction Project Schedules. 516-236-4045 chinnababureddy@hotmail.com
REAL ESTATE
Open Houses
EAST ROCKAWAY BA 62 Bulaire Rd, , NEW TO MARKET! Move Right Into This 4
BR, 2.5 Bth Exp Ranch in Waverly Park
Area of SD#20(Lynbrook). Open Floor
Plan. LR w/Fpl, DR, Gran/Wood EIK Plus
Family Rm w/ Vaulted Ceiling. Upper Level Has Huge Skylit Recreation Rm, BR, Bth & W/D. Beautifully Lanscaped Oversized
Prop W/ Trex Deck for Entertaining. Multi Car Drvewy...$899,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 515-238-4299
HEWLETT SUNDAY, 3/31, 2-3:3 1560
Hewlett Heath Rd, NEW TO MARKET!
Must See This 3000 Sq Ft Colonial Featuring 4 BR, 2.5 Bth Tucked Away in a Beautiful Cul de Sac. Spacious LR, FDR, Updtd EIK w/Island Opening Into Family Rm w/Fpl. Main Flr Laundry Rm, Part Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. Gas Heat(New Boiler) & CAC. SD#14(Hew-Wood). Near Trans, School & Houses of Worship...$1,199,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
HEWLETT 3/31, 12-1:30, 119 Midgely
Dr, FIRST SHOW! Well Maintained 5 BR, 3 Bth Colonial on Dead End St in Old Woodmere Area. LR/Fpl, FDR, EIK & Den with Walls Of Windows Overlooking Yard. Fin Bsmt, Det Gar. HW Flrs, Slate Roof. SD#14(Hew-Wood). Near LIRR, Shops & Houses of Worship...$949,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
HEWLETT 3/31, 2-3:30, 1560 Hewlett Heath Rd, NEW TO MARKET! Must See This 3000 Sq Ft Colonial Featuring 4 BR, 2.5 Bth Tucked Away in a Beautiful Cul de Sac. Spacious LR, FDR, Updtd EIK w/Island Opening Into Family Rm w/Fpl. Main Flr Laundry Rm, Part Bsmt. 2 Car Att Gar. Gas Heat(New Boiler) & CAC. SD#14(Hew-Wood). Near Trans, School & Houses of Worship...$1,199,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
Open Houses
HEWLETT: BA 1267 Peninsula Blvd, 5 BR, 2 Bath Exp Cape in SD#14(Hewlett Woodmere)Living Room, FDR & Updtd Gran/Wood EIK w/ Vaulted Ceiling. 2 Main Flr BRs & Updtd Bth. Upper Level 3 BRs & Updtd Bth. 1.5 Car Det Gar Plus 4/5 Car Drivewy. Priv Yd w/ Deck.HW Flrs, Gas Ht. Near Shops, LIRR, Trans & Houses of Worship...$579,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman 516-238-4299
HEWLETT BAY PARK: BA 190 Meadowview Ave, , Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All. Must See This Unique Home!.REDUCED!!.$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299
WOODMERE
Q. I live in the flood area, which happened during Sandy. I am required to lift my air conditioning unit. I was told it had to be at least 4 feet above the ground, and could be set on a platform or put on a bracket against the house. The platform seems to kill the space in my side yard, so I’m opting for the brackets. Now that I have discussed them with my neighbors, they told me the brackets, which will be on the outside of my bedroom, are going to make the air conditioner vibrations annoying, because I’ll hear them right through the wall. I don’t want that, but the platform would take up space and would be much more expensive to build. Is there another alternative, or can I prevent the noise from the vibrations from coming through the wall? It will drive me crazy if I’m awakened every time the unit goes on. What can I do?
A. This has been a problem addressed in different ways, either by dampening the unit or brackets, relocating the unit to a different place on brackets outside a room, such as a utility, laundry or storage room, building the platform or mounting the unit on a roof. The roof mounting is really a last resort, since the unit needs to be accessible and level. The only place I have designed roof-mounted units is on new homes where flat (low-slope) roof sections are planned. If you have a steeper-sloped roof with asphalt shingles, this method is not worth considering.
As for the less costly method, mounting brackets that are made for air conditioning outdoor condenser units have accessory dampeners and isolation cushions that can be installed, so obviously the industry recognizes the problem.
Comments I have gotten are that, over time, the brackets may wear down and screws and bolts may loosen. One person told me that he lessened the problem by tightening all the fasteners, but I believe this is temporary, and I don’t see the average homeowner climbing a ladder to tighten the connections unless they become completely frustrated. Only locating the condenser unit on a wall area of a seldom-used area of the home, like your utility, storage closet, garage or laundry room, will reduce this problem.
Otherwise, the separate tower is your best option, even though it will cost at least $1,000 more to do. I rarely hear of this problem, but it still does happen. The same thing occurs with washing machines and dryers located on a wood structure adjacent to bedrooms. In such cases, I design a separate, floating structure, isolated by gaskets and dampening shoes or pads. The other alternative is using concrete, but it still needs designed separation dampers. I hope you understand that moving or installing the unit is still costly with new wiring and refrigerant lines being installed to reach the relocated unit, whichever way you go. Good luck!
Announcements
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Novena
PRAYER TO THE BLESSED MOTHER (Never Known to Fail)
Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show herein you are my mother.
Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succor me in this necessity. (Make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me here. in you are my Mother. Oh, Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (3x). Oh Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3x) Sweet Mother I place this cause in your hands (3x). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. This prayer must be said for 3 days and after, 3 days your request will be granted, and the prayer must be published. Thanks for many favors!
S.D..
Antiques/Collectibles
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Wanted To Buy
FREON WANTED: Certified buyer looking for R11, R12, R22 & more! Call Clarissa at 312-535-8384
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In spring, all eyes turn to the
It has arrived. Baseball’s opening day.
pETER KInG
When I was a kid growing up in Queens, this greatly anticipated moment was my reassurance that all was well with the world. Coinciding with the coming of warm spring weather and the sale of the new season’s edition of baseball cards, it focused the attention of my friends — whether Dodgers, Yankees or Giants fans — first on the upcoming pennant races, and then on the World Series. This was the golden age of baseball in New York. During the 11 seasons from 1947 to 1957, the Yankees won nine pennants; my team, the Dodgers, six; and the Giants, two. In every year but one, there was at least one New York team in the World Series, and both teams in the fall classic were from New York eight times.
As far as we were concerned, baseball was New York, and New York was baseball. There was nothing like going to Ebbets Field, Yankee Stadium or the
pPolo Grounds and being struck by the colors of bright green grass, white baselines and players’ uniforms that were so intense compared with what we saw on our 12-inch black-and-white television screens. No other sport during that era generated such attention. The football Giants often played before a lot of empty seats in the Polo Grounds, and the Knicks actually played NBA championship games in a National Guard Armory because the circus was using Madison Square Garden.
My friends and I had to take the train to Flushing Meadow to play on grass.
Because there was no grass anywhere in our Sunnyside neighborhood, we adapted with our baseball simulations of stickball, curb ball, stoop ball and punchball or softball on the concrete field in the nearby city park. When we reached age 11, we formed our own team, enrolled it in the PAL and took the Queens 7 line train to Flushing Meadow, which had grass fields. The team’s equipment consisted of two bats and a catcher’s mask. Batting helmets were nonexistent, as were parents, or any adults at all. We were on our own. And if we lost or played badly, there was no one to console us.
Much had changed, of course, by the
need stronger
arents, teachers and school administrators on Long Island all understand the gravity of the youth vaping epidemic. Young people are using vaping devices at alarming rates, exposing themselves to nicotine and numerous other dangerous chemicals that have adverse effects on their health. New York state must respond to this crisis by requiring greater transparency when it comes to the sale of vaping products, holding distributors accountable for illegal sales and rigorously enforcing penalties for bad actors.
MIchaEllE solaGEsAccording to the state Department of Health, nearly one in five high school students in New York reported vaping nicotine in 2022. There is no debate about the scale of the problem, but state policy is not keeping up with the demand for it. School districts have been left with no choice but to create individualized plans to respond to this
time my son, Sean, started playing Little League ball at Seaman’s Neck Park in Seaford in the late 1970s: There were Opening Day parades, grass fields, uniforms, umpires, adult coaches, team batting helmets and stands filled with parents, grandparents and neighbors. That was all new to me, but made for great memories. I really noticed the differences when, starting in 2013, my grandson Jack began playing, first in the Wantagh Little League and then on Long Island travel teams, including the Chiefs and Titans. The changes that struck me most were the equipment — individual batting helmets and customized bats — and the level of play — 11- and 12-year-olds routinely turning double plays and catching high fly balls. What was unchanged was the level of family support and community enthusiasm, with no Bad News Bears adult tantrums or boorishness.
Travel team baseball was a whole new experience. Not just the higher level of skill, but playing across Long Island and traveling to tournaments in upstate Cooperstown as well as Connecticut, Maryland and even South
Carolina. At every destination, the Long Island kids played well and distinguished themselves.
Now a new baseball season is upon us, from Little League to the major leagues. Much has changed over the years. The Dodgers and Giants abandoned us for California over six decades ago. Major League Baseball, which at one time never played west of St. Louis, has expanded from two eightteam leagues to 30 teams and six divisions, and plays regular-season games in Asia and Europe. There has been a diffusion of intense fan interest beyond baseball to the NFL, NBA and NHL. And there is now an overlap of sports seasons, with the NBA and NHL cutting into months of the baseball schedule.
At the local level, the travel team phenomenon draws away from Little League and high school play. Still, baseball remains strong in New York, with the Mets and Yankees, and especially on Long Island, with our outstanding facilities and, most important, supportive families and communities. I know I’m still enthused and ready. Play ball!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
problem, with the state failing to tackle the supply side of the issue. Distributors and individual sellers are getting away with selling to minors, and there are currently few enforcement mechanisms in place to hold sellers and their distributors accountable.
TThis year I have introduced legislation that would require distributors of vaping products to be licensed by the state. Under this bill, there would be reporting requirements for distributors and sellers so the supply chain of vaping devices couldn’t be hidden from state authorities. This creates transparency on where these devices are coming from. Last July alone, the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted $18 million worth of illegal vapes that were shipped to the United States from overseas. This represents only a small fraction of total imports, most of which make it past customs enforcement.
here’s no debate about the scale of the problem, but state policy isn’t keeping up.
ment of state regulations. My bill would authorize inspections of retailers to ensure compliance with tax and licensing requirements, and empower the state to seize all non-tax-paid devices. Violators would be subject to fines and possible revocation of their license to sell. Another bill in the Assembly would require all products stored on or near the premises of a vape retailer to be subject to inspections. Actions like these would go a long way toward eliminating illegal sales and removing bad actors from the market.
One critical aspect of cracking down on illegal sales of vaping products is cutting off access to them for people younger than 21. Many can buy devices online and bypass all checks that would be required at a retailer, and many are still able to buy devices right at the counter. More must be done to make sure age verification is being done for all sales.
ing meaningful progress in getting these devices out of the hands of young people. In recent months, we have seen the state take more concrete steps to crack down on illegal cannabis retail operations. The same must be done with the vaping industry. It will require a sustained effort on the part of government agencies, with the backing of strong legislation to make a dent in the illegal sales of vaping devices that is occurring every day.
The promise of a smoke-free generation was within our grasp not that long ago, but the illicit vape market has threatened all of our progress on this issue. Vaping devices provide real help to cigarette smokers who are looking to quit, but we should make sure sales are targeted only at this group of consumers. No child should be exposed to vaping devices, and the state government must be an active partner in making sure all distributors and retailers are following the law while cracking down on the black market that thrives on getting young people hooked on nicotine.
With unregulated and unauthorized vaping devices flooding the market, there needs to be more rigorous enforce-
Even if this were fully addressed, the black market for vaping products would still present a major challenge to mak-
Michaelle Solages represents the 22nd Assembly District and chairs the Assembly’s Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus.
they’re good people. They’re strong. And they’re heroes.
That’s how people in New York describe volunteer firefighters, according to a survey conducted by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York. And nearly half of all people who were asked said they would love to become one of these strong, good heroes.
And now they have their chance.
Volunteer fire departments — like the one in your hometown — are opening their doors the weekend of April 13 to not only remind our neighborhoods of how important those fire departments are, but also to help bring more firefighters to the fold.
It’s called RecruitNY weekend, and leading up to it, the firefighters association is asking businesses, government buildings and anyplace else where exteriors are lit to make those lights red to show solidarity with our firefighters.
“The lights symbolize our commitment to a tradition of community help, and a need for more volunteers,” Edward Tase Jr., president of the association, said.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is doing his part, lighting the dome red on the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola in the first two weeks of April. The hope is that other major landmarks across the region and state will light up
To the Editor:
Long Island Rail Road riders have to ask why Phase 2 of the LIRR’s $168 million Jamaica Capacity Improvements wasn’t completed prior to the initiation of full-time service for the $11.6 billion East Side Access to Grand Central Madison in February 2023.
Phase 2 is scheduled to be completed by December 2026. The work will raise maximum allowable train speeds, increase train throughput — the number of trains that can pass through a section of line in a given time — as well as parallel routing capabilities, implement universal 12-car platform capacity and ensure a full state-of-good-repair throughout the Jamaica Station complex. It will include critical work on bridges carrying trains, and expansion of the Hall Interlocking.
Prior to this, there was the $450 million Phase 1 of the Jamaica Capacity Improvements, for which funding was approved in 2010, using grants from the Federal Transit Administration. It included capital improvements in and around the station, encompass -
red as well.
Being a volunteer fire department has been getting tougher. Membership has dropped, while calls have increased. And not because people don’t want to be firefighters — it’s just hard to make that commitment in our busy lives, amid a turbulent economy that requires many of us to work more than we may have in the past to pay the bills.
But there are benefits beyond simply making a difference — and potentially saving lives — to being a volunteer firefighter. And those are benefits worth considering. For example, volunteer firefighters get free training and free equipment, as well as tax breaks and essential insurance coverage — all provided by the Volunteer Firefighter Benefits Law, first passed in 1957.
Some of those tax breaks include income tax credits of $500 to $1,000 per year, as well as property tax reductions of up to 10 percent, assuming your local government has opted in.
And, depending on what individual departments have set up, there could be pension opportunities as well, established through the state’s Length of Service Award Program.
For younger people, there are scholarships and tuition reimbursement available, too.
Of course, becoming a volunteer firefighter isn’t about the financial incentives, although they help. What really
draws most people to serve is a chance to give back to the communities they love in ways they simply can’t do otherwise.
Volunteer firefighters play a crucial role in protecting their homes and neighbors from emergencies and disasters beyond simply putting out fires, although there is nothing simple about that. They are also there for medical emergencies and natural disasters like major storms, always contributing to public safety and well-being.
These days we see firefighters needed to respond to flooded basements, lithium-ion battery fires, downed power lines and car accidents.
Volunteers also get to fulfill a dream many of us have had since the moment we saw a firefighter for the first time. We knew that’s what we wanted to be, too. So why not do it?
Visit your local volunteer fire department next month. See what it’s like to be a firefighter, and how you can make a difference. And then ask where you can sign up.
President George W. Bush once said that “the willingness of America’s volunteer firefighters to risk their lives for others is a testament to the spirit of service that pervades our nation.”
Let’s continue prove him right. Find out how — and where — you can volunteer today. Visit FireInYou.org/volunteer.
ing tracks, signals, third-rail power and interlockings, designed to support increased operational capacity necessary for future service to Grand Central
son. When the FTA grants were approved, this proposed new service was many years away. Thirteen years was ample time to complete both Phase 1 and 2.
the American Jewish Committee recently released its annual State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, which revealed that 63 percent of American Jews say the status of Jews in the U.S. is “less secure than a year ago” — a 22-percentagepoint increase in just one year, and a 32-point increase over two years.
Forty-six percent of American Jews say they have changed their behavior out of fear of antisemitism, a jump from 38 percent last year.
While these numbers are daunting and cause for concern, several of the key takeaways from the report, on Holocaust and antisemitism education, are positive.
state offer varying degrees of Holocaust education, in accordance with State Education Department regulations, and we also know that quality Holocaust education has been shown to reduce antisemitism and all forms of hate.
AJC’s report found that 92 percent of American Jews, and 89 percent of all U.S. adults in the Northeast, believe it is important for public schools to invest more resources in teaching age-appropriate lessons about the Holocaust to all students. There is also overwhelming support among both the Jewish community and the general public for teaching modern manifestations of antisemitism in public schools. We know that schools in New York
Jewish students, however, should not be seen solely through the lens of the Holocaust. We should incorporate the Jewish community in any diversity efforts, and encourage the celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month in May, to promote awareness and appreciation of Jewish contributions to American society.
In addition, over the past several years, school districts across Long Island have implemented character education initiatives to address all forms of hate and racism, and help students understand the consequences of actions and words on others.
It is critical that we also teach about the modern manifestations of antisemitism, not just the historical ones. Since the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, we have seen a steep increase in antisemitic graffiti and incidents in Long Island public schools. This is on top of an already growing problem with anti-
Why wasn’t Phase 2 completed before the service to GCM began? And will its completion increase overall rush hour capacity, including additional Atlantic branch Brooklyn service, and reduce travel time between Jamaica and Penn Station, GCM, Flatbush Avenue, Hunters Point or Long Island City? LIRR commuters, taxpayers, transit advocacy groups and elected officials deserve a detailed explanation from MTA Chairman Janno Lieber and Acting LIRR President Robert Free for why this work was delayed so long.
LARRY PENNER Great Neck
Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.
You’re dreaming, Jerry.
To the Editor:
Re Jerry Kremer’s recent column “Check your Medicare statement carefully”: I think Jerry is naïve to think Medicare will have the time and manpower to investigate billing
semitism here and nationwide.
Given that antisemitism is often not well understood, education is crucial in fostering an environment with zero tolerance for anti-Jewish bigotry and all forms of hate. It is also critical to reassure Jewish families that districts see them in this moment, and are prioritizing their children’s safety and well-being. Several Jewish organizations, including AJC, offer training for students, teachers and administrators.
In these moments of uncertainty and anxiety for American Jewry, it is also important to consider what is being reported when Israel is in the news more than usual, as has been the case since Oct. 7. Criticism of Israel is not inherently antisemitic. In fact, it is a feature of its democracy, and Israelis do it all the time. But there are occasions when antiIsrael rhetoric can become antisemitic, including statements that deny the Jewish people’s right to self-determination.
sau and Suffolk counties, New York state and the federal government, criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic, but, for example, “applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation” does cross that line.
The IHRA definition can be helpful in evaluating whether antisemitism exists in school settings. Establishing a system to report antisemitism and all forms of hate, reviewing and publicizing key school policies, including social media, and communicating with families when antisemitism and hate occur are also vital.
The more we all know about antisemitism, the more we can identify it, fight it and keep it on the fringe of society. When that happens, not only Jews will feel more secure, we all will.
scams, like the one he detailed involving catheters, when they are devoting resources to denying reimbursement for preventive services that are listed in their handbook. I will explain.
I recently had a PSA test whose reimbursement was denied because of a billing code error. I am 77 years old, and per Page 49 of the Medicare handbook, this is a preventive service to which I am entitled every 12 months.
I did not have this test for several years. I called Medicare to get the service reimbursed, and was told I had to get a letter from my doctor explaining the need for the service, and with that document to file an appeal. This meant the doctor had to send me a letter, and I had to fill out a claim form and mail it to Medicare. Medicare now has to evaluate the appeal and rule on it.
The request for an appeal for coverage of this preventive service couldn’t be approved with a phone call, even after I was transferred to two different people with hold times of roughly 20 minutes. Everyone I spoke to on the phone agreed that it didn’t make sense, but they had no authority to approve the service, even though it’s listed in their manual as one that’s covered.
LEWIS ALTMAN MerrickAs noted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s Working Definition of Antisemitism, which has been adopted by the AJC and major American Jewish organizations, Nas-
Eric Post is the Long Island director of the American Jewish Committee. Bob Vecchio is the executive director of the Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association.
Framework by Tim Baker
