Volunteers Marie Christ, Catalina DeHaerting, Michael Cecere, Gail Milne and Jonathan Barreto joined the Rev. Johnny Mendonca and the Rev. Francis A. Nyarkoh at St. Christopher’s Parish Feast in Baldwin.
The heart behind the annual feast
Hundreds of volunteers help keep the tradition alive
By AllYSoN FERRARI aferrari@liherald.com
Thousands of visitors who attended St. Christopher Parish’s 51st annual feast over four nights enjoyed carnival rides, live music, homemade food and the chance to reconnect with neighbors on the church grounds. What many didn’t see were the 250 volunteers whose months of preparation helped turn one of Baldwin’s longest-running traditions into another successful summer celebration.
From planning that begins each January to assembling booths, preparing homemade meals and organizing games, raffles and entertainment, volunteers spent months transforming the parish grounds into a gathering place for the Baldwin community.
For Fr. Johnny Mendonca, the feast’s
greatest success wasn’t measured by attendance or fundraising but by the sense of community it fostered. Now in its 51st year, the annual tradition draws parishioners and non-parishioners alike, bringing together families, friends and neighbors to celebrate faith, fellowship and Baldwin.
“That’s the blessing of this feast,” Mendonca said. “People were just helping with a joyful mood ... making community together.”
That work begins months before the first visitor arrives. Planning for the annual feast starts each January, when committee members set the dates, reconnect with returning booth captains and volunteers, and map out everything from food stations and games to rides and entertainment. By the time the celebration opens in July, hundreds of volunteers have spent months organizing what
Neighbors unite to revive Brookside
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
The Brookside Preserve, a nature sanctuary situated between Baldwin and Freeport known recently for its poor maintenance and deteriorating infrastructure, is getting a much-needed face lift from local volunteers. The Environmental Rotaract Club of Nassau County Long Island, along with Freeport High School’s Interact Club and other volunteers comprised a group of more than a dozen people who began work last week on the Brookside Preserve Beautification Project, hoping to make the park’s entrance more inviting and accessible to the community.
t’s for the community, and we want the community to feel welcome.
ways, is home to numerous species of plants and animals, but has been in significant decline due to vandalism, littering and aging infrastructure. It is under the jurisdiction of Nassau County, and the county administration, and County Executive Bruce Blakeman, have been criticized by many residents for the state of the sanctuary and the Nassau’s perceived lack of cooperation with local groups seeking to make improvements there.
ChRISTophER MCBRIDE Secretary, Environmental Rotaract Club of Nassau County Long Island
On July 11, about 15 volunteers in total took to the Brookside Avenue entrance of the preserve to try to clear out some of the trash and unkempt foliage. The preserve, which encompasses more than 20 acres of woodlands and water-
“The Brookside Preserve has been one of the lost neglected preserves in Nassau County,” Ama Karikari, public relations director of the Environmental Rotaract Club, said in describing the extent of littering on the land.
“Unfortunately, it has also become a place for illicit activities. This is a shame, because it provides an amazing immersive nature experience that could be a resource for fun, relaxation
CoNtiNueD oN PAGe 16
things to know at the Baldwin PuBlic
Activities to check out at the library in August
By ALLYSON FERRARI
aferrari@liherald.com
As summer winds down, the Baldwin Public Library is offering a full slate of programs designed to entertain, educate and bring the community together. Throughout August, residents can enjoy live music performances, thought-provoking book discussions and a variety of free movie screenings for audiences of all ages, including sensory-friendly showings. Whether you’re looking to discover a new favorite book, listen to live entertainment or spend an afternoon at the movies, the library has something for everyone. Here are three events to add to your calendar.
Enjoy live music on Monday nights
The library’s Summer Music Monday concert series continues with two performances in August. On Aug. 3, Long Island City-based LIC Groove will bring classic R&B and classic rock to the Community Room from 7 to 8 p.m. The band, formed in 2019, is known for energetic performances designed to get audiences dancing. The following week, on Aug. 10, Broadway and cabaret performer Rosemary Loar will present “Curaçao Vagabundo/Vagabond Heart,” blending jazz standards with international influences in French, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese and Spanish alongside pianist Frank Ponzio. The performance also runs from 7 to 8 p.m.
Tickets are required for both concerts and may be reserved through the library’s online event calendar or by calling the Reference Desk at (516) 223-6228, ext. 145. Patrons may reserve up to two tickets and must pick them up at the library before each performance’s designated deadline.
Join a discussion about bestselling books
Readers can take part in two librarian-led book discussions during August. The Afternoon Book Discussion, held in a hybrid format on Aug. 12 from 2 to 3 p.m., will explore John Green’s nonfiction bestseller “Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection.” The book examines the history of tuberculosis while highlighting the social and economic inequalities that continue to make the disease a global health crisis. The discussion will be led by Reference Librarian Clay Kuunifaa.
Later in the month, the New to You Book Club meets Aug. 20 from 7 to 8 p.m. to discuss Gabrielle Zevin’s “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow.” The novel follows two college friends whose partnership in video game design shapes decades of friendship, ambition and love. Head of Acquisitions Librarian Marialisa Arnold will lead the discussion.
• We provide burial, cremation and memorial services to fit all budgets, traditions and customs. Whether it’s simple Cremation services, Graveside services, church or chapel services, we have the experience and compassion to make sure your loved one is cared for as if they were members of our own family.
• We are a resource for aftercare, providing literature and referrals to grief counseling and support.
• We are Pre Planning experts, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones, assuring final wishes are carried out, lightening the burden on the ones you love. All Pre Plan funds are 100% trusted in compliance with NYS law.
• We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your needs.
Catch a movie on the big screen
Movie lovers will find something for every age throughout the month. The library will offer two sensory-friendly screenings of “Monsters, Inc.” on Aug. 5, including a morning showing for adults with sensory needs and an evening screening for all ages. Both feature dimmed lights, lower volume and open captions, with no registration required.
Additional films include “Project Hail Mary” on Aug. 7, “Jurassic Park” on Aug. 12 as part of the Summer Reading Club finale for ages 13 and older, the family adventure “Hoppers” on Aug. 14, “Remember the Titans” on Aug. 21 and the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany” on Aug. 28. Most screenings are free, with refreshments available at select showings. Registration is only required for the “Jurassic Park” screening.
Michael J. Cecere, Jr. - Michael J. Cecere, III - Michelle L. Cecere Licensed Funeral Directors and Pre Planning Consultants
HERALD SchoolS
Natalie Cain, Grade 4
What would America look like in the year 2056? Well, that’s a good question. I think America would look different, but I think it would also be cool and creative and so much more! I think there will be more modern houses. A lot of new creative inventions that are very helpful and useful. I think there will be very cool new discoveries throughout space and on Earth. I hope that in the year 2056 most of the world hunger will end and start world peace. I also wonder if I will still want the job I want now, which is a teacher. Most of all, I hope America is a better place than it is now.
Nala Uwechue, Grade 8
In 2076, I visualize America to be a place where unity will be a nonnegotiable factor in all aspects of life, and not because it has to be, but because people want to come together as one. I believe that Americans will finally learn to put aside their differences, whether they be political values, race, religion, gender, etc., and they won’t matter at all anymore since everyone will have one thing in common that they should be very proud of; Being able to call America home.
I also envision America to continue being a beacon of hope for people all around the world to come to when they need refuge, and a place that they can rely on for always trying to improve the technology that is already great. America will continue to be a place where there is no limit for how high you can go, and opportunities will continue to flourish in education, careers, and the possible path-ways in life. Additionally, I believe that this nation will solve international problems with
creative approaches that will spare lives, and will help to eliminate war, famine, and oppression.
Zahra Uwechue, Grade 5
These are the three things I think will happen in America in the next 50 years. One thing I think will happen in America is that there will be a lot more technology than right now. For example, we will have different robots doing all these things for us. A second thing I think will happen to America in 50 years is that there will be a lot of pollution. For example, if people keep throwing all their garbage everywhere the Earth will keep getting more and more polluted, which would not be good for any animals or humans. The last thing I think will happen to America in 50 years is that everybody will be accepted. These are the three things I think will happen to America in 50 years.
Sanaa George, Grade 8
In 2076, I envision America as a highly advanced nation powered by clean energy, innovative technology,and improved transportation systems. Artificial intelligence may help people learn, work, and solve problems more efficiently. Cities could be greener and more sustainable, with smart buildings that conserve energy and reduce pollution. Medical advances may help people live longer and healthier lives by preventing and treating diseases more effectively. Space exploration could become a normal part of life, with Americans working on the Moon or even Mars. America will likely continue to be diverse, creative, and focused on solving global challenges while improving opportunities and quality of life for future generations.
News brief Adelphi to showcase four art exhibitions this summer, fall
2026-27 school year.
District to continue free meals for students
Beginning July 1, all students attending Baldwin Union Free School District schools will continue to receive reimbursable breakfast and lunch meals at no cost through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs, according to a district announcement.
Although meals are free for all students, the district said families may still be asked to complete free and reducedprice meal applications. The forms help determine eligibility under federal income guidelines and may be used for state and federal funding purposes and
other educational programs.
Families receiving SNAP, TANF or certain other qualifying benefits may be eligible automatically, while households experiencing financial hardship may apply at any time during the school year. Applications are available through each school’s main office.
Parents with questions about the application process may contact Assistant Business Manager Jennifer Walsh at 516-434-6040, according to the district.
— Allyson
Protecting Your Future
Making the World a Better Place
The late Jonathan Sacks, Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, wrote extensively on making the world a better place. In his book, “To Heal a Fractured World”, he writes, “I have spent much of my life thinking about life, observing people, reading books, searching for teachers and exemplars...I make no claim to wisdom, but this I have learned:”
“That what counts is not how much wealth we make but how much of what we have, we share.”
“That those who spend at least part of their lives in the service of others are the most fulfilled and happiest people I know.”
“That moral health is no less important to the quality of a life than physical health.”
“That the best do good without thought of reward, understanding that to help others is a privilege even more than it is an opportunity.”
“That self-interest is simply uninteresting.”
“That pain and loneliness are forms of energy that can be transformed if we turn them outward, using them to recognize and redeem someone else’s pain or loneliness.”
“That putting others down, we diminish ourselves; lifting others, we lift ourselves.”
“That nothing is gained by less-thanethical conduct. We may gain in the short term but we will lose in the long, and it is the long term that counts.”
“That the ability to give to others is itself a gift.”
“That the privilege of wealth lies not in what it allows us to do for ourselves, but what it enables us to do for others.”
“That the world is a book in which our life is a chapter, and the question is whether others, reading it, will be inspired.”
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
Adelphi University will present four free public art exhibitions this summer and fall, featuring works by Long Island artists and alumni across three gallery spaces on its Garden City campus.
The exhibitions, open to the public, include painting, sculpture, mixed media, printmaking and fiber art. Artist receptions and talks are scheduled throughout the exhibition period.
Beyond the Island
July 2–Sept. 12
Performing Arts Center, Second Floor Gallery
Curated by Adelphi alumna Lauren Skelly Bailey, “Beyond the Island” features works by 17 painters with ties to Long Island. The exhibition explores themes of memory, place and the changing impressions of summer through both abstract and representational works.
A reception will be held Sept. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
In the Arena
July 2–Sept. 12
Performing Arts Center, First Floor Gallery
Bellport artist Mark Van Wagner’s “In the Arena” examines the relationship between the natural world and human experience through abstract sculptures, paintings and drawings. Van Wagner incorporates natural sand collected from around the world, along with reclaimed materials, to explore themes of impermanence, decay and renewal.
A reception is scheduled for Sept. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Telling Tales
Aug. 10–Sept. 12
Swirbul Library, Lovely Gallery
Adelphi alumna Karen Renna, a retired educator who taught at the Waldorf School of Garden City and in the Herricks school district, will present “Telling Tales,” a solo exhibition featuring watercolor, ink, ceramics and printmaking. Her work draws on personal
A mixed-media work by interdisciplinary artist Ani
combines textiles, paint, printmaking and assemblage as part of “UNEARTHING | A Reclamation of Prayer,” on view at Adelphi University.
experiences, relationships and the natural world.
A reception will be held Sept. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. Gallery hours are daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
UNEARTHING | A Reclamation of Prayer Aug. 10–Sept. 12
Ruth S. Harley University Center, Adele and Herbert J. Klapper Art Gallery
Interdisciplinary artist Ani Brutus will present “UNEARTHING | A Reclamation of Prayer,” featuring printmaking, painting, textiles and assemblage. Through layered scrap materials and family archives, Brutus explores ancestry, spirituality and memory, drawing inspiration from Vodou traditions.
An opening reception and artist talk are scheduled for Sept. 3, with the reception from 6 to 8 p.m. and the talk at 7 p.m. A “Making Relics” workshop will be held Aug. 26 from noon to 2 p.m. Gallery hours are daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
All four exhibitions are free and open to the public.
For more information about gallery hours, parking and events, visit adelphi. edu/events.
— Allyson Ferrari
Ferrari
Herald File photo
Baldwin schools will continue offering free breakfast and lunch to all students during the
Courtesy Adelphi University
Brutus
An evening of community and safety
By ALLYSON FERRARI aferrari@liherald.com
Baldwin residents will have an opportunity to meet local police officers, firefighters and community organizations during National Night Out, a nationwide event designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve, on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Baldwin High School.
Hosted by Nassau County Legislature Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé and Legislator Scott M. Davis, who both represent parts of Baldwin, in partnership with the Baldwin Civic Association, Nassau County Police Department, Baldwin Fire Department and an array of local community organizations, the free event will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Baldwin High School, 841 Ethel T. Kloberg Drive.
Now in its 43rd year, National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes policecommunity partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer and more connected. Held on the first Tuesday in August, the event encourages neighbors to come together with police officers, firefighters and emergency responders in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Since its launch in 1984, National Night Out has grown into one of the nation’s largest community engagement initiatives. Millions of people participate each year in thousands of communities across all 50 states, U.S. territories and military installations worldwide. Neighborhoods celebrate with block parties, festivals, cookouts, youth activities, safety demonstrations and informational exhibits that give residents the opportunity to interact with first responders outside of emergency situations.
Organizers said the Baldwin event aims to foster
those same connections by bringing together local government, first responders and community organizations for an evening focused on public safety, neighborhood involvement and community pride.
“In communities like Baldwin all across America, National Night Out has become a cherished tradition that strengthens connections and forges authentic partnerships with the local first responders who keep us safe,” Mulé said. “It is wonderful to be working with Legislator Davis and partners like the Nassau County Police Department, Baldwin Fire Department and Baldwin Civic Association to once again bring National Night Out to Baldwin High School!”
Davis said the annual event gives residents a chance to meet the people and organizations that help keep Baldwin safe while enjoying an evening with neighbors.
“Thanks to the hard work of so many community partners, National Night Out is an evening where families from coast to coast have fun and meet the local law enforcement, first responders and civic organizations that serve and strengthen our communities,” Davis said. “I look forward to an outstanding event at Baldwin High School and encourage you to join us in supporting this great American tradition.”
In addition to providing a fun evening for families, organizers said National Night Out helps build trust between residents and emergency personnel through face-to-face conversations and community engagement. The event also highlights the role civic organizations play in improving neighborhood quality of life and encourages residents to become more involved in their community.
Residents interested in becoming a sponsor or vendor can contact Mulé’s office at (516) 571-6206 or email dmule@nassaucountyny.gov.
Londyn Dwar, 4, and Katy Smith played Connect Four during last year’s Baldwin National Night Out, an annual event that brings families, first responders and community organizations together.
BALDWIN HERALD —
Crossovers fuel Nassau County football
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Kickoff for the Nassau high school football season is just over a month away.
On Aug. 17, all 51 public high school football programs in the county will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Thursday, Sept. 3 with a Conference IV battle between Island Trees and Oyster Bay. The vast majority of openers will take place the following Thursday.
The biggest news of the offseason came in the spring when East Rockaway and West Hempstead announced it would be joining forces. Longtime Rocks head coach Russ Pajer adds Dom Carre, who served as the head coach at West Hempstead since 2010, as defensive coordinator. Carre played for Pajer at East Rockaway in 1997 and ‘98.
“Our JV teams combined last year and it was a great experience,” said Pajer, who enters his 32nd season as head coach. “West Hempstead’s numbers are down to less than 20, so it was a no-brainer. It was a seamless process with both superintendents on board. It’s a good thing and we expect to have a strong team.”
East Rockaway/West Hempstead is seeded fifth in Conference IV and opens at Valley Stream North. Three of its home games will be played under the lights at East Rockaway beginning Sept. 18 against defending county champion Seaford. West Hempstead will be the site of the Week 3 crossover against Elmont, and the game will serve as Homecoming. A Homecoming will also take place in East Rockaway Oct. 9. In 2025, the Rocks went 2-6 while the Rams finished 4-4 and qualified for the playoffs.
“We expect to have between 30 and 35 kids on varsity,” Pajer said.
Crossover games add intrigue
Seaford, along with three-time defending Long Island champion Massapequa (Conference I), ninetime defending county champion Garden City (II) and South Side (III) are the No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences.
Massapequa and Garden City will clash in a muchanticipated crossover game Sept. 26 on the Chiefs’ home field at 1:30 p.m. The Trojans enter the season riding an amazing 66-game winning streak. The showdown, along with all the other crossovers between Conferences I and II, and III and IV, will carry a lesser power-ranking weight than the other seven games, Carey head coach Mike Stanley said.
Some of the other Week 3 matchups feature Carey at Oceanside, Long Beach at Farmingdale, South Side at Seaford, Plainedge at Lynbrook, and Freeport at Roosevelt (Thurs., Sept. 24 at 5 p.m.)
Seven teams switch conferences
Plainedge and Carey lead a group of six teams switching conferences for this season based on enrollment and size breakdown of each conference. Plainedge finished first in the regular season in Conference IV a year ago, going undefeated in the process, and bumps down to III. Carey was in III last fall but jumps up to II, essentially changing places with Glen Cove. East Meadow is no stranger to the top conference and heads there after a brief stay in II. Floral Park, Valley Stream North and Valley Stream South moved to IV from III.
Few coaching changes
Legendary Plainedge head coach Rob Shaver retired
10 games to watch
Sept. 10 Long Beach at Carey
Sept. 10 Wantagh at Plainedge
Sept. 10 Lynbrook at Seaford
Sept. 19 Mepham at Calhoun
Sept. 26 Carey at Oceanside
Sept. 26 Garden City at Massapequa
Oct. 10 Oceanside at Massapequa
Oct. 17 Plainedge at South Side
Oct. 24 Massapequa at Farmingdale
Oct. 31 South Side at Wantagh
at the end of last season and the Red Devils are now led by former assistant Adam Hovorka. They’ll kick off at home versus defending Conference III champion Wantagh. And for the third time in four seasons, East Meadow has a new head coach with Matt Castaneda taking over. The Jets are seeded seventh in their return to Conference I and open at home against Hicksville. Former Elmont head coach Jay Hegi is the new head coach at Division.
Lucas DiDio and Oceanside take on Carey in what promises to be an exciting crossover game Sept. 26.
Michelle Ebel/Herald photos
Chaminade’s Luka Tomaszweski was on the move during 7 on 7 drills at Oceanside.
TOH promotes UV Safety Awareness Month
By CHRIS COLUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com
With July at the heart of every summer, its designation as National UV Safety Awareness Month is timely. When beachgoers soak in the sun and outdoor activities fill most days, skin care and cancer prevention tips are as critical as ever.
Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti held a news conference at the Town Park at Point Lookout on July 9, joined by partners from Northwell Health, to launch the town’s Summertime Wellness Series.
“This program offers residents convenient access to important health services,” Ferretti said. “We’re kicking it off today with a free skin cancer screening event.” From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., medical professionals from Northwell Health were set up with a mobile unit, providing free skin cancer screenings to 50 town residents. “We urge all of our town residents in the Town of Hempstead to get checked on an annual basis for skin cancer,” Ferretti explained, “Whether that’s here in a town facility or with your own dermatologist.”
Ferretti shared effective tips to mitigate UV exposure, including the use of sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher; aiming to stay in the shade during peak sunlight hours, typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and wearing proper clothing, sunglasses and headwear when outdoors.
Dr. Camila Villa-Ruiz, a dermatologist at Northwell Health, spoke at the conference discussing more realities surrounding skin cancer. “We estimate that one in five people will develop skin cancer by the age of 70,” Villa-Ruiz stated. “It is a very common, but preventable, cancer that has a high cure rate. Have your skin cancer screenings. Visit your dermatologist if you see anything that’s changing, growing, or bleeding.”
Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti, at podium, was joined, from left, by Councilwoman
Clerk Kate Murray, Councilman Tom Muscarella, Dr. Camila Villa-Ruiz from Northwell Health and
Dorothy Goosby.
Individuals with tattoos, or anyone considering getting a tattoo, should take extra precaution. “It is harder to screen, especially when you have tattoos that are covering moles,” Villa-Ruiz said. “It is definitely harder, but we can still do it. I would highly recommend to not get tattoos over existing moles.”
A second wellness series event and free skin cancer screening will be held on July 16, from 11 a.m. to 1
p.m., at Veterans Memorial Park Pool in East Meadow. The series will conclude with a presentation on Four Ways to Save a Life — including how to administer CPR, how to use an automated external defibrillator and other potentially life-saving practices — from 11 a.m. to noon on July 23 at the Echo Park Pool Complex in West Hempstead.
Chris Colucci/Herald
Laura Ryder, Town
Deputy Supervisor
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 7:00PM
The making of Nassau
By ALLYSON FERRARI aferrari@liherald.com
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, communities across the country are reflecting on the people, events and decisions that shaped their histories. Nassau County, though younger than the nation itself, offers a distinctly American story — one of selfgovernment, growth, migration and reinvention. Over the past 125 years, it has evolved from a largely rural landscape into one of the nation’s most populous and diverse suburban counties.
Long before Nassau County was established on Jan. 1, 1899, indigenous communities lived on the land that would later become the towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay and North Hempstead. For more than two centuries, the region remained part of Queens County, shaped by many of the same forces that influenced the young nation, including colonial settlement, the American Revolution and the political divisions that followed.
Its modern identity emerged in the late 19th century, as New York City expanded and western Queens moved toward consolidation with the city. Many residents of the eastern towns believed their largely rural communities would be better served by local government than by becoming part of the growing metropolis, fearing local concerns would be overshadowed by the needs of an expanding city government.
Historian Patricia T. Caro notes that the modern Nassau-Queens border emerged from the creation of Greater New York in 1898. The border was not drawn arbitrarily. Planners viewed Jamaica Bay and the Rockaway Peninsula as strategically important to the city’s future. Had state lawmakers not intervened, communities such as Inwood, Elmont and portions of Valley Stream and Lawrence might be part of New York City today rather than Nassau County.
Over the next several decades, Nassau evolved into one of the nation’s earliest suburban success stories. Railroad
expansion made commuting to New York City increasingly practical, while new residential developments drew families seeking greater space and opportunity. By 1930, the county’s population had grown to more than 303,000.
Following World War II, Nassau experienced a housing boom that accelerated its transformation. Developments such as Levittown provided affordable housing for thousands of returning veterans and their families, helping fuel a population surge that transformed former farmland into residential neighborhoods. By 1960, Nassau’s population exceeded 1.3 million residents.
As the county grew, communities developed distinct identities. Historic centers such as Hempstead and Oyster Bay were joined by newer residential communities including Levittown, East Meadow, Baldwin, Wantagh and Massapequa, creating the patchwork of villages and hamlets that remains a defining feature of Nassau today.
Today, Nassau includes more than 60 incorporated villages and dozens of hamlets, reflecting the tradition of local government that helped inspire the county’s creation. That decentralized structure remains one of the county’s defining characteristics more than a century later.
In recent decades, Nassau’s demographic makeup has continued to evolve. New waves of immigrants from the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia and other regions have reshaped communities from Elmont and Valley Stream to Hicksville, Westbury and Hempstead, contributing to its cultural diversity and economic growth.
Today, Nassau is home to roughly 1.4 million residents.
What began in 1899 as a new county carved from eastern Queens has grown into a diverse region home to more than 1.4 million residents. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Nassau County’s evolution from three towns seeking local control into one of the nation’s largest suburban counties reflects a broader story of change and growth.
Photos courtesy Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [LC-DIG-ggbain-17591]
The Nassau County Courthouse in Mineola became an early symbol of the county’s independent government after Nassau was established in 1899. Gov. Theodore Roosevelt laid the courthouse cornerstone in 1900.
Months of work, four days of celebration
has become one of Baldwin’s largest annual community gatherings.
Gail Milne, who chaired this year’s feast after volunteering for 38 years, said the preparation quickly becomes an all-hands effort, with parishioners assembling booths, organizing donations, setting up equipment and preparing food in the weeks leading up to opening night.
About a month before the feast begins, volunteers start assembling booths across the parish grounds while tents, the band shell and other attractions are installed. Grills, fryers, tables, chairs, coolers and countless other pieces of equipment are hauled from storage, transforming an empty field into the bustling midway visitors recognize each summer.
The work continues in the parish kitchen, where volunteers slice onions and peppers, prepare sauces and cook many of the dishes that have become staples of the feast. Unlike many festivals that rely on outside food vendors, nearly every meal served at St. Christopher’s is prepared by parishioners, from homemade pasta with marinara, meatballs and eggplant to kielbasa and pierogi, empanadas, pupusas and zeppole.
The spirit of volunteerism extended to the entertainment as well. Milne said former feast chairperson Michael Cecere coordinated this year’s lineup, which featured local performers who donated their time and talent. Throughout the four-day celebration, visitors enjoyed performances by Pats Dance Studio, Musically Inclined, School of Rock, Jailhouse Fingers and Midnight Bourbon featuring Carmine Puglisi, reinforcing the feast’s focus on showcasing the Baldwin community.
Despite the long hours, Milne said the effort is worth it each year.
“I love my Parish of St. Christopher and look forward to the Feast each year just to see so many gather together having fun, chatting, laughing and reminiscing about prior feasts,” she said.
For many volunteers, the feast is more than a four-day event — it’s a tradition that spans generations.
Families have returned to the feast year after year, with some parishioners volunteering for decades. Mendonca said a handful of volunteers have been involved since the feast began 51 years ago, while many others have dedicated 25, 35 or even 40 years to the annual tradition. Families, he said, take pride in preparing homemade foods and passing that commitment from one generation to the next.
One of those longtime volunteers is John Wenk, who has worked at the feast since 1986. Milne said Wenk has filled countless roles over nearly four decades of service and is beloved throughout the parish for his dedication.
While longtime volunteers remain the backbone of the event, Milne said this year’s feast also welcomed many new faces. Seeing younger parishioners step forward to help, she said, offers hope that the tradition will continue for
Olivia Callaghan-Freedman, 12, held her 1-year-old sister, Susana, as they attended St. Christopher’s Parish Feast in Baldwin.
years to come.
“It is heartwarming to watch our parish grow in faith and service to one another,” Milne said.
For Mendonca, the feast’s impact extends beyond the parish. Residents from across Baldwin, along with friends and families from neighboring communities, return each summer to share a meal, listen to music and spend time together.
“For Baldwin, it means gathering,” Mendonca said. “It means being with friends, being with the community of Baldwin.”
This year’s theme, “One Nation Under God,” recognized the nation’s 250th anniversary and reflected the parish’s emphasis on faith, service and unity.
The feast also serves as one of St. Christopher’s largest annual fundraisers. Mendonca said proceeds support parish outreach as well as ongoing improvement projects, including parking lot renovations, church entrance repairs, terrazzo restoration and the construction of two new side altars.
While hundreds of volunteers spend the weekend running booths, preparing
food and greeting guests, Mendonca’s job is a little different.
“My role is to walk around, meet people, talk to them, sit with them, chat with them, eat with them, laugh with them,” he said.
Treasures volunteers Joan Bacalles, Candy O’Connor, Gerry Mianulla, Maria Roberts, Karen Montalbano and Nancy Soderstorm helped organize one of the feast’s most popular attractions.
After 51 years, the St. Christopher Parish Feast remains a celebration built not only on rides, music and homemade meals, but on generations of volunteers whose shared commitment continues to bring the Baldwin community together.
Attic
Maureen Lennon/Herald photos
Stephanie dePalma and Noelia Morillo showed off a colorful dC Comics superheroes poster they found while browsing the popular Attic Treasures tent.
Baldwin Fire department volunteers eddie Jery, Tim Hughes and Steve Burke handed out American flags and fire truck coloring books to Hannah and Luke Russo at the department’s recruitment booth.
Joylin Boswell painted a design on the face of her mother, Paula Boswell, during the annual feast on July 16.
Mount Sinai South Nassau has expanded its continuum of care services by launching an inpatient hospice program through a new clinical partnership with MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care, providing specialized end-of-life care for patients whose needs cannot be met at home.
MSSN launches inpatient hospice care partnership
By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com
Mount Sinai South Nassau has expanded its continuum of care services by launching an inpatient hospice program through a new clinical partnership with MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care, providing specialized end-of-life care for patients whose needs cannot be met at home.
The hospital announced that the new service will offer around-the-clock hospice care for patients facing life-limiting illnesses, while also providing support for their families during one of life’s most difficult transitions.
We are grateful to partner with a respected health care provider such as MJHS Health System to provide this most essential, compassionate end-of-life care and support to patients and their families who need it,” said Dr. Adhi Sharma, president of Mount Sinai South Nassau. “The service is a reflection of each organization’s mission and values to bring the highest-quality continuum of care to the communities we serve.”
The program combines the expertise of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s clinical staff with MJHS Hospice’s specialized team of hospice professionals. Care will be provided by an interdisciplinary group that includes physicians certified in hospice and palliative medicine, skilled hospice nurses, social workers, chaplains, creative arts therapists and grief counselors.
Hospice care focuses on comfort rather than curative treatment, helping patients manage symptoms such as pain while emphasizing quality of life. Although many hospice patients receive services in their homes, some require a higher level of care that can only be provided in a hospital setting.
“As a mission-driven provider of end-
of-life care, we are honored to partner with Mount Sinai South Nassau on bringing compassionate hospice care into their flagship hospital on Long Island,” said Laurie Chichester, chief operating officer of MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care.
Chichester said the program is centered on comfort, dignity and respect, with care guided by each patient’s values and wishes. She added that the partnership allows families to spend meaningful time together while receiving support from clinical, emotional, psychosocial and spiritual care experts.
In addition to caring for patients, the program includes bereavement services for families for up to 13 months following a loved one’s death.
Hospice patients will receive care in private rooms designed to offer the comfort and amenities of home, according to hospital officials. Family members will be able to remain with loved ones, including overnight, creating a more supportive environment during end-of-life care.
“As it is with all we do, this service is built on the premise that Mount Sinai South Nassau exists to provide our patients and residents of the communities we serve with the health care they need, when they need it, and even at end of life,” said Dr. Alan Wong, the hospital’s chief medical officer and senior vice president of medical affairs.
Dr. Brigit Palathra, chief of palliative care at Mount Sinai South Nassau, said the program’s primary goal is to ensure patients and families have access to compassionate, patient-centered care during the final stages of life.
“The number one focus of this service is to ensure that our patients and their families have access to the patient-centered, dignified end-of-life care they deserve,” Palathra said. “I am certain this collaborative effort will fulfill that promise.”
FREE SUMMER CONCERTS
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6 7:00PM
AUGUST 13 • 10AM-12:30PM
CONGREGATION OHAV SHOLOM
145 S MERRICK AVE, MERRICK
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
STEPPING OUT
For Michelle Taplin, seen here at a spring showcase, theater is about more than performance. Through Tap Into Your Passion, she is helping young actors develop the confidence, resilience and skills to succeed both onstage and off.
Opening doors to the stage
By Iris Wiener
Michelle Taplin has spent much of her life immersed in the performing arts, but her greatest role may be helping the next generation discover their own voices. What began as a longtime dream has grown into Tap Into Your Passion, a thriving coaching and arts education company that, more than a year after its official launch, is already making a lasting impact on aspiring performers across the region.
As Tap Into Your Passion marks its first year and a half, Taplin celebrates the milestone with a special fundraising gala on Aug. 10 in The Green Room 42 in New York City that reflects the heart of her mission: making quality theater education accessible to everyone.
For Taplin, the journey started long before she opened her Rockville Centre-based business. Growing up in Oceanside, she balanced voice lessons, dance classes, gymnastics, and community theater while nurturing two lifelong ambitions: becoming a theater educator and one day opening her own company. Inspired by Oceanside High School theater teacher Laura Gallo, she pursued degrees in theater and business at Muhlenberg College before earning an MA in theater education from Adelphi University. Along the way, she gained experience as a performer, director, choreographer, stage manager, and arts administrator while also spending six years with the Sunrise Association, where she developed an inclusive teaching philosophy serving children with cancer and their siblings. Those experiences continue to shape every lesson she teaches today.
Taplin continues to wear many hats. She teaches theater at both the middle and high school in Oceanside, and directs productions with the school district and community theaters, including Plaza Theatricals. She also advises student organizations and mentors countless young performers. Tap Into Your Passion has become a natural extension of everything she loves most about teaching.
“Tap Into Your Passion’s mission is to provide theater education without costing an arm and a leg,” Taplin says, explaining that she wanted to remove financial barriers for students pursuing careers in the performing arts. She offers three primary services: private coaching for performers ages nine and up; a comprehensive college audition program that guides students through every step of the competitive application process; and a monthly master class series featuring accomplished Broadway performers, choreographers, casting directors, and other industry professionals.
The response has been exceptional. Taplin credits much of Tap Into Your Passion’s early success to the generosity of the artists who have shared their time and expertise. Taplin explains that each workshop has
Theater coach celebrates a milestone
reinforced the lessons she teaches her students while helping to build a supportive network where young performers can learn directly from professionals working in the industry.
Rather than molding students into “cookie-cutter performers,” Taplin encourages them to embrace their individuality. She believes there is no single path to success in theater and exposing students to a wide variety of artistic voices helps them discover the techniques and perspectives that resonate most authentically.
That philosophy has attracted students from throughout Long Island and Manhattan. Students from Floral Park, Oceanside, Lynbrook, Sewanhaka, Elmont, Rockville Centre, East Rockaway, Garden City, and New York City, among other places, create a diverse community connected by a shared love of theater.
“Michelle always makes sure to put care and respect into all of her students’ work sessions,” says Kevin Kirley, a student from Rockville Centre who now attends New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. “She has also been so integral to my journey throughout the college audition process. Her teaching has been extremely influential to me as a working actor, and I will take what I have learned throughout my training into my artistry.”
For Taplin, arts education extends well beyond singing, dancing or acting. She advocates that theater teaches empathy, collaboration, resilience, confidence, communication, and determination — life skills that benefit students regardless of whether they ultimately pursue careers on stage.
“It’s what the process teaches you,” she says, emphasizing that the personal growth students experience is often more valuable than the performances themselves.
Those values will be front and center shortly when Tap Into Your Passion hosts its Broadway Gives Back gala. The evening will feature performances by many of the Broadway artists and teaching professionals who have led Taplin’s master classes, each sharing a song that inspired their own theatrical journey. Beyond celebrating the company’s growth, the fundraiser will support Taplin’s goal of keeping coaching and master classes affordable for aspiring performers while demonstrating to students the passion that fuels successful careers in the arts.
As Tap Into Your Passion enters its second year, Taplin aims to continue expanding its reach while maintaining the close-knit community that has become its hallmark. She envisions welcoming more students, introducing them to even more accomplished professionals, and reminding every young artist that there is room for their unique voice in the theater world. Looking back on Tap’s remarkable beginning and the theater community’s willingness to help, Taplin relates that the experience has reinforced one lesson above all others: “The answer will always be ‘no’ if you don’t ask.”
It is a philosophy that has helped transform a childhood dream into a flourishing business, and one that continues to inspire the students following in her footsteps.
Visit TheGreenRoom42.VenueTix.com for tickets or more information about Where It All Began: Broadway Gives Back.
Double Vision: The Foreigner Experience
Comprising a group of exceptionally talented musicians and die-hard Foreigner fans, Double Vision has perfected the art of bringing to life the unforgettable hits that have defined generations. From “I Want to Know What Love Is” to “Cold as Ice,” Their renditions are a harmonious blend of passion, precision, and nostalgic energy. Drawing inspiration from Foreigner’s unmistakable sound and stage presence, Double Vision delivers a performance that pays homage to the band’s legacy while infusing their own charisma and enthusiasm. Their commitment to authenticity is matched only by their unwavering dedication to creating an electrifying experience for their audiences.
Saturday, Aug. 1, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
Vishal & Sheykhar
Brace yourself for a high-octane night with Bollywood’s most electrifying music duo – Vishal and Shekhar! VishalDadlani and Shekhar (formerly Shekhar) Ravjiani return to the states, following a completely sold-out U.S. run in 2025. Experience the energy and excitement of The Superhit Tour as acclaimed music duo Vishal and Sheykhar take the stage. Known for creating some of Bollywood’s biggest hits, the duo brings a powerhouse performance filled with fan-favorite songs, dynamic production and a concert atmosphere that will have the entire audience singing along. Expect a night packed with unforgettable music, stunning visuals, and the signature sound that has made them global sensations.
Sunday, Aug. 2, 7 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter. org or (516) 299-3100. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.
Photos courtesy Michelle Taplin
Student Bella Romero performs at the spring showcase at The Green Room 42.
Broadway’s Krystina Alabado, right, leads a master class.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
jul
‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’
The Madison Theatre’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” brings the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the stage, retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his colorful coat and his rise from slavery to Pharaoh’s trusted advisor. Told entirely through song, the family-friendly production features memorable numbers including “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door” and “One More Angel in Heaven,” blending musical styles from calypso to country-western. Suitable for audiences of all ages, the show continues to be one of the world’s most frequently performed musicals.
• Where: Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Various dates and times, through Aug. 2
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
Summer grooves
Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series welcomes Grateful Dead tribute band Half Step. The Long Island-based band are dedicated fans and “students” of the Grateful Dead, capturing the spirit, improvisation, sound and complexity of Grateful Dead music. Half Step has been mastering their craft since 2004 while winning over crowds of veteran Deadheads, newcomers and non-Dead fans alike. Like the Grateful Dead themselves, the band is constantly pushing the envelope, growing together as musicians and performers.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
Storybook Stroll
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Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Storybook Stroll. Little listeners are invited to participate in a guided stroll through the Gardens, with a reading of “StellaLuna” by Janell Cannon. Along the way, discover nature’s wonders, in the formal gardens. The tour ends at the Thatched Cottage with a story and hands-on craft for each child to take home.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
Franz Ferdinand
• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.
• Time: 1-5:30 p.m.
• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228
Nature Connects
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families to spend an afternoon exploring, building and creating together! Seasonal Sprouts offers is a LEGO-themed adventure for young explorers. Children (ages 4–10) embark on a guided outdoor tour of Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects made with LEGO bricks. Everyone discovers the wonders of nature in a fun and hands-on way. After the tour, kids can unleash their creativity in a LEGO free-play area. $22 per adult, $20 ages 62+, $12 child. Registration required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 2-3 p.m., also Aug. 12
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
AuG
• Time: 8 p.m.
The Scottish band brings their Greater Glasgow European Cultural Exchange Tour to the Paramount stage, in support of their latest album, “The Human Fear,” which dropped in January. Since emerging from Glasgow’s art-school scene — where the band famously staged illegal parties in abandoned buildings — Franz Ferdinand has built a reputation for bold sharp hooks, infectious riffs and a fearless approach to reinvention. The band’s sixth studio album explores the emotions that define the human experience, transforming fear from something to avoid into something that awakens us. From the vulnerability of new relationships to the courage required to embrace change, “The Human Fear” channels those moments of uncertainty into songs packed with energy, urgency and unmistakable Franz Ferdinand style. Following the retrospective collection “Hits To The Head,” their latest album marks a new chapter for the group — one that honors its signature sound while pushing forward. Expect a high-energy performance filled with the clever songwriting, driving rhythms and irresistible beats that have made Franz Ferdinand one of the most influential bands of its generation. At this point in their career, Franz Ferdinand definitely know who they are, and are relishing the vigor that comes with accepting that
Summer sounds
Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with the annual Salute to Veterans show. Desert Highway performs an Eagles tribute. American Bombshell also appears.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
Family theater
2
Lance the Eagle welcomes families to “A Semi-QuincentenEAGLE Birthday” on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage. In this original production, families are invited to celebrate his birthday. His message: As the national bird, this party will be happening throughout the whole month of July. Come to think of it, I did hear something about a birthday for the United States of America as well. Hmm...must be a coincidence! I’ll be throwing a parade through LICM’s galleries and a celebratory spectacle in the Theater. Come ready to party!” Keep an eye out 30 minutes before each show for a special interactive pre-show!
For ages 3+. $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Aug. 5
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Bubble Magic
AuG
3
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to the Bubbles exhibit for some extra sudsy fun! Through playful, hands-on experiments explore what makes a bubble form, what makes them pop, and discover new creative ways to make bubbles at the drop-in program. For ages 3+. bubbles at the drop-in program. For ages 3+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Summer Music
Monday
Enjoy an evening of live music with LIC Groove, a Long Island City-based band performing
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
classic R&B and classic rock favorites. Tickets are required and are limited to two tickets per registration.
• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.
• Time: 7-8 p.m.
• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228
Walking Club
AuG
4
6
Mexican summer drinks workshop
Learn how to make refreshing Mexican summer drinks during a demonstration by Janeth of Cooking with Maria at Baldwin Library. Drinks include horchata, watermelon, cantaloupe and hibiscus drinks. Participants receive a small take-home kit with ingredients to make horchata. Registration required.
• Where: 2385 Grand Ave.
• Time: 7-8 p.m.
• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228
Baldwin Public Library’s Walking Club continues at Baldwin Park.
Participants walk for about 30-45 minutes. Check email or the library’s website for updates, especially weatherrelated cancellations.
• Where: 3232 Grand Ave.
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Contact: baldwinpl.org or call (516) 223-6228
AuG
5
NADAP Workforce Initiative
Representatives from NADAP’s Workforce Initiative Nassau visits Baldwin Public Library. Obtain nformation about free employment services, career training and education referrals available to Nassau County residents.
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar 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 kbloom@ liherald.com.
Nature preserve restoration is in the works
and learning.”
Karikari added that the environmental group — Rotaract is a program of the service organization Rotary International — chose to focus on the preserve because of its “immense potential” for the community. She listed Milburn Pond Park, in Baldwin, Norman Levy Park and Preserve, in Merrick, and Freeport’s Cow Meadow Park as examples of nearby green spaces that are well-kept and frequently visited — models for what she hopes the Brookside Preserve can become. The Village of Freeport and the Town of Hempstead, which maintain Cow Meadow Park and Norman Levy, respectively, have no jurisdiction over the Brookside Preserve, and no responsibility for its upkeep.
The Rotaract Club’s success in getting the beautification project approved by Nassau County, however, offers a reason for optimism that further cooperation to help restore the preserve may be possible.
“We are very grateful to Nassau County Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Museums Darcy Belyea for helping to expedite the appropriate permits allowing for ERNCLI to proceed with this project,” Christopher McBride, the club’s secretary, told the Herald.
McBride estimated that the project will cost about $5,000, with much of the potential expense being alleviated by the use of volunteer labor, as well as monetary and plant donations the Rotaract Club has received from local businesses. The sponsors include Atlantic Nursery of Freeport, Hicks Nurseries of Westbury and John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Last week’s Phase One of the project included cutting weeds, raking leaves, trimming trees and clearing the way for the entrance renovations. The second phase, which began on another day of service last Sat-
urday, was the planting of a pollinator garden around the entrance. In the third and final phase, scheduled to begin later this month, benches, a gate and signage will be installed.
McBride said that Rotaract plans to finish all of the work this month, and members hope that once it is finished, the new entrance will be more inviting to visitors, and encourage more people to contribute to fixing up the rest of the preserve.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Freedom Mortgage Corporation, Plaintiff AGAINST Nashka Gibbons, Jardith D. St Louis, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 19, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 799 Vivian Court, Baldwin, NY 11510. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54 Block 573 Lot 5. Approximate amount of judgment
$504,377.95 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612557/2025. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Jack L. Libert, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 24-004174 90483 161170 LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, -againstZAKAR RAEL EDWARDS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DUNCAN EDWARDS, IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 6, 2026, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and ZAKAR RAEL EDWARDS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DUNCAN EDWARDS, IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 2, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1764 BROWNING STREET, BALDWIN, NY 11510; and the following tax map identification: 36-408-427 & 428. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND,
SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT BALDWIN, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 614778/2021.
Michael J. Sepe, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 161408
“We’re trying to make the entrance beautiful and attractive and welcoming, most of all, so that people look at it driving by and say, ‘Hey, they really cleaned that up. Let’s go in and check it out,’” McBride said. “That’s our goal, because it’s for the community, and we want the community to feel welcome.”
If all goes according to plan, the finishing touches for the new preserve entrance will be installed on Aug. 1, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place that day at 2 p.m.
Volunteers helped clear branches and other foliage at the preserve.
Deliah Roberts/Herald photos
Jose Hercules Rivera was one of many young participants who helped out in the first week of the Brookside Preserve revitalization.
naimah abraham, of Baldwin, volunteered alongside other community members during the cleanup effort to help restore the entrance to the Brookside Preserve.
members of the environmental Rotaract Club of nassau County Long island began work to restore Brookside Preserve on July 11.
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Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Do we have to submit complete house plans just for a garage?
Q. We were recently told that our permit plans, to be approved, were going to have to include plans of the entire house, not just the garage area we are bumping out on the side. We were wondering if you have heard of this or whether we are being singled out. Our architect said that it may be because we have to go to the zoning board. Is this the reason, or did we say something wrong and are being punished? We asked, several times, for an update, because things are moving very slowly and we get the impression the building department just wants us to go away. They work for us and I think we deserve better service, frankly.
A. Trust but verify is now a common expression, and with good reason. What I have noticed over the years is that complete information is more often required, showing unrelated areas of the home, because many people have not been truthful about building changes or about how much work they have done, without permits, in other parts of the home. Because of this issue, many plans examiners ask for the big picture, not just the area you are interested in. It is obvious, when looking at file records in building departments and then comparing them to the actual dwelling during a walkthrough.
Your dilemma is due to the lack of trust between the authorities and the public. If the building inspector notices that the plans and the home don’t exactly compare, they can ask for “revised” plans to be submitted. It is frustrating, right at the end of a project, when people are ready to move on with their lives, to find out that the “simple, little changes” and side work they did require revised plans to be submitted to their building department. It is much worse to learn about changes or not following plans many years later.
Contractors and owners may get away with not communicating in the short term, but it does not pay, in the long run, to hide information. When someone realizes they bought a house with inherited, hidden issues which they are now responsible for, they feel taken advantage of. Worse than that are the costly corrections that have to be made because something that has existed for years may not be code-compliant. It happens all too often that unrelated portions of the building become a stumbling block to getting approvals for what you are really looking to do.
You are probably not being singled out, but you have been put in this position by previous workers and owners who did not take the record-updating seriously. People have told me, with a grin, that “By the time anyone notices, we’ll all be long gone.” I just came from a jobsite where work was done 16 years prior, the plans were not followed, and a structural failure is occurring that is going to be expensive to fix. The whole picture, not just part, is, therefore, important. Good luck!
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The documentary on Steven McDonald is a must-see
Recently I saw a screening of the documentary about the late NYPD detective Steven McDonald, “Saint of the City.” McDonald was a true hero. In 1986, as a young police officer, he was shot and permanently paralyzed by 15-year-old Shavod Jones, whom he was questioning about a series of bicycle thefts in Central Park.
Jones shot McDonald three times, the third time while he was lying on the ground, shattering his spine and leaving him a quadriplegic, needing a ventilator to breathe. McDonald not only survived, but forgave Jones and went on to live more than 30 heroic years of dedicated service, without complaint or self-pity, until his death in 2017.
Steven and his wife, Patti Ann, lived in Malverne during that time with their son, Conor, who was born just months after his father was shot. Patti Ann went on to serve two terms as Malverne’s mayor. “Saint of the City” was written by veteran Emmy-award winning WPIX-TV reporter Mary Murphy
and produced by Erin Mulvey, a former DEA agent. Filled with facts, emotion and perspective, the film captures the essence of McDonald as an outstanding human being who inspired so many.
I met with him over the years at various police events, at his home in Malverne and in Congress. Those meetings made vividly clear to me just how devastating his injuries were. He was not only confined to a wheelchair, but incapable of moving any party of his body except his head, and he had no sense of feeling anywhere. Once when he gave me a book he had written, he inscribed it for me with a Sharpie he held between his teeth.
The NYPD detective forgave the teen who shot him, leaving him a quadriplegic.
His breathing was labored, and required a ventilator. At any time he could be struck with severe spasms lasting 30 seconds to a minute. These were difficult to observe, never mind having to endure them.
As the film depicts, McDonald persevered through all of this. He regularly spoke at high schools and to young cops.
He was also an articulate voice for peace and justice in Northern Ireland, not just attending events in New York, but traveling to Northern Ireland to
Iurge those on all sides — Catholics and Protestants, pro-British and pro-Irish — to resolve their differences and pursue the path to peace. McDonald’s efforts were particularly beneficial in the months following the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, when radicals attempted to shatter the peace accord with a horrific bombing attack in Omagh, Northern Ireland, that killed 29 civilians and injured more than 200. His presence at such a critical time delivered a strong message about the necessity of maintaining peace and allowing the agreement to be implemented.
I remember when Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern addressed a joint session of Congress and singled out McDonald, who was seated in the House gallery. At a reception later that day, Sen. Ted Kennedy asked me to introduce Ahern to McDonald.
The film also highlights how McDonald was sustained by his Catholic faith, and particularly by the advice and consolation he received from Father Mychal Judge, the chaplain of the FDNY who died at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, and Cardinal John O’Connor, who McDonald told me would visit him at his Malverne home
to help him through tough moments. McDonald also organized prayer groups that met regularly.
The “Saint of the City” screening took place at the Marymount School, in Manhattan. Among those in attendance were former NYPD Commissioners Ray Kelly and Keechant Sewell, former Detective Bo Dietl and many high-ranking police officials and officers who worked with McDonald or got to know him over the years. Magee Hickey of WPIX, WINS reporter Juliet Papa and Daily News columnist Michael Daly were also there.
From the sports world there was Mets all-time great relief pitcher Jesse Orosco, who, after pitching the final innings of the Mets’ final 1986 World Series game against the Red Sox, had thrown his glove high in the air. Days later, Orosco gave the glove to McDonald, a longtime Mets fan.
Most notable among the attendees, of course, were Steven’s widow, Patti Ann, and their son, Conor, who is now a captain in the NYPD. Both personify and carry on the inspirational legacy of Steven McDonald, who was truly a saint among us. Once it is distributed, be sure to see “Saint of the City.”
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Why is the U.S. picking a fight with its best friend?
don’t know much about the tariff system, but I know enough about economics and politics to say that President Trump’s new proposed 50 percent tariffs on Canada would be the most foolish things ever done by a president in recent American history. I know these proposals are always subject to negotiation, but why pick on our second-largest trading partner at the worst possible time?
The Canadians have been our best friends for as long as I can remember. They were there for us during World War II, when they lost over 40,000 men in battle. They have contributed soldiers to many of our wars, and have stood up for us at the United Nations and around the world. One of the reasons behind the latest insanity is the president’s statement that he is mad at Canada because of the smoke that has drifted south to the United States.
The best way to describe the latest tariff proposal is that it would be a self-
inflicted wound that would hurt American consumers the most. There is a basic fact that we fail to understand. The average reader may think that new tariffs would punish Canadians, but when new duties are imposed on Canadian autos, wine, hockey sticks, dairy products and cement, American distributors have to pay them, and then they pass the cost on to American consumers. The family in Levittown that buys Bobby a hockey stick pays extra because of the tariff hike.
Tariffs on Canada in retaliation for wildfire smoke that drifted south? Really?
Lots of other bad things happen when new tariffs are imposed. Canada, in retaliation, has imposed its own 25 percent counter-tariffs on U.S. vehicles, steel and aluminum. These tariffs hurt American builders and potential homebuyers who can’t afford higher costs when they’re seeking to purchase their first home. Tariffs on auto parts disrupt production lines and costs manufacturing jobs on both sides of the border.
Tariffs have another impact on countries like Canada. China is eager to establish new relationships with nations that will buy its goods. In 2025,
Canada announced a new comprehensive trade agreement with China that, among other things, will allow the sale of Chinese autos in Canada. Industry specialists say that Chinese cars are high quality and much lower in price, and will be a potential threat to American auto manufacturers.
One of the worst results of our feud with Canada is its impact on American businesses. Tourism in many of our northern border states has been badly damaged by this unnecessary battle. And one of the biggest losers has been Las Vegas. Hotel operators have seen a 70 percent drop in Canadian visitors, which has caused large layoffs of hospitality employees.
When arbitrary tariffs are imposed on a friendly nation, there are other consequences. Other countries watch American actions and conclude that we can’t be trusted if we economically attack a longtime friend. To add to our unreliability, the U.S. has a trade agreement, negotiated by Trump six years ago with Canada and Mexico, which was scheduled to be renewed this month.
The president has stated that he won’t honor the terms of that agreement.
The crowning touch to the U.S.-Canada breach has been Trump’s threats to make Canada our 51st state, and his frequent statements deriding Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Trump supporters will say this is just the president doing his thing, and that he isn’t really serious, but words have consequences, and many Trump watchers around the world don’t have such an expansive sense of humor.
Earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled that the president didn’t have the unilateral authority to impose sweeping, open-ended tariffs under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act, and that only Congress has that power. Trump is now using a 1930 law to justify his actions, which will likely be challenged in court.
At a time when the nation is juggling a war with Iran, higher gasoline prices and the continuing issue of affordability, fighting with Canada is just plain dumb.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm.
There’s always someone downwind
there’s a particular quality to the light when the smoke arrives. It goes flat and white, the sun turns into a coin you can look at directly, and the air smells faintly like someone three houses down is burning leaves. It has happened enough times now that Long Islanders recognize it.
The fires are in Canada. Ontario mostly, sometimes the prairie provinces — a thousand miles and more from here, far enough that the smoke spends days in transit before it reaches us. And it reaches us anyway. It settles over Rockville Centre and Garden City and Long Beach. It gets into the lungs of kids at day camp in Merrick who have never heard the phrase “boreal forest.”
There is something clarifying about that, if you let it be.
We are accustomed to thinking of our lives as local, and with good reason. This newspaper exists because the things that shape a day here — the school calendar, the traffic on Sunrise Highway, whether the field will be playable Saturday morning — are decided close to home by people you might run into at the deli. That proximity is the texture of life in a place like ours. The distance between a thing and its cause is usually short enough to walk.
letters
Town supervisor candidate Scianablo deserves a serious look
To the Editor:
Barely a day goes by that I don’t receive at least one mailing from John Ferretti expounding on all of his successes as Town of Hempstead supervisor. He claims that he is hard at work for the people of the town. He claims to have lowered town taxes, that he is working to ensure that our water is safe to drink, and is working with Nassau County to protect religious institutions. Just because he makes these claims doesn’t mean they aren’t just alternative facts.
The truth is that since he became supervisor — with the questionable means by which he was made the incumbent for his election — town taxes have increased 12 percent, our
Smoke from a forest a thousand miles away is a different phenomenon. It did not come from anything anyone here did or failed to do. And at the end of that very long chain sits your daughter’s soccer practice.
Why more of it, and why now? Because the climate is warming and the northern forest is drying out as a result. Spring snowpack melts earlier than it used to. Summers run longer and hotter, and the peat and duff beneath the trees turn into something that holds fire the way a sponge holds water — slowly, deep down and for a very long time.
Fires that once burned themselves out now smolder underground through the winter and surface again in spring. More fire, more smoke. And the same atmospheric machinery that has always carried Canadian cold fronts down to the Northeast now carries the smoke with them.
The smoke isn’t doing anything unusual. It is riding the same currents that have brought us our weather since before there was a Long Island to bring it to — the northwest flow behind a front, the same air that gives us a crisp October morning and the frigid air of January. We have always been downwind of Canada. We simply had no occa-
sion to notice.
That’s what makes this worth sitting with. Not the fires themselves, but what they reveal about connection. Something we didn’t do, in a place most of us have never been, is now a feature of summer on Long Island.
And what we do continues downwind. The exhaust from the Meadowbrook, the fertilizer that leaves a lawn in Wantagh and ends up in the bay, the plume from a stack in Island Park — none of that stays put, either. Our runoff is someone else’s smoke.
There is a version of this line of thinking that curdles into helplessness, and we would steer away from it. Being connected to a place you cannot influence isn’t the same as being powerless. It is mostly an invitation to pay attention — to the bay, to the air, to the small local things that are, somewhere downwind, someone else’s inherited condition.
The sky has cleared — but it will haze over again. If not this summer, then next. And each time it does, it is worth taking a moment to notice the strangeness: that we are downwind of a forest we will likely never see, and that somewhere, someone we will never meet is downwind of us.
Donnie Kreiss, ‘I
carry your heart
with
me’
My husband, Donnie Kreiss, died on July 12, at home, just days after our 58th anniversary. He was 80, and had been living with pancreatic cancer since it was diagnosed in 2023.
Donnie did not go gently. As Dylan Thomas wrote, he raged against the dying of the light, from the moment he knew he had this relentless cancer until two Sundays ago, when he drew a quiet breath and then no more. Our son and daughter were with him.
My sister, Meryl Greenbaum, was with us. The loving good wishes of everyone he knew were with us.
He had been drifting away for the previous 10 days, suffering the side effects of three years of treatment. Still, in early June he was walking laps in our building, and in April the family had gathered for his birthday dinner. He pushed his athlete’s body beyond anyone’s expectation, and the night he died, we rang the bell for him, because every single day he lived since 2023 was a tribute to his courage.
Letters
water rates are up 33 percent, and our energy rates continue to climb. Due to the lack of transparency, we have no idea where our hard-earned tax dollars are going or to whom.
I met Ferretti’s opponent, Joe Scianablo, for the first time when he attended a parlor meeting at my home. I was impressed not only with his background, but also his sincerity and his desire to continue serving the public. Scianablo has spent his entire adult life as a public servant. He served multiple deployments in the Marines in East Timor, Eritrea, and Iraq, then was a New York City police officer, focusing on domestic violence cases, in which helped victims find safety and justice. He is a former prosecutor in the Queens district attorney’s office, where he advocated for survivors of domestic violence.
I believed Scianablo when he said his focus would be to ensure that our tax dollars and resources benefit all the people in the Town of Hempstead, not just the favored ones. He isn’t a career politician, but will be a politician who has made a career of service. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to meet him to do so. I think you will come away as impressed as I was.
CHERIE FEINBERG Lawrence
triumph over adversity.
HDonnie never felt sorry for himself. In his last days on earth he was reaching out to friends who had heartache, relationship woes, business setbacks or medical problems. He preached a gospel of positivity, insisting on finding threads of hope. He left a legacy of goodness and generosity, changing the lives of so many people along the way.
e always found the best in others because, truly, that was all he saw.
Donnie was a native Lawrencian. He was born in 1946 at Brooklyn Jewish Hospital to Lillian and Jack Kreiss, who lived at 16 Muriel Ave. in Lawrence. When he was 2, he contracted bacterial meningitis, which was usually fatal in those days. He was in isolation at St Joseph’s Hospital, in Far Rockaway, for two months. That was the first of his medical miracle recoveries, which included a fractured skull when he was 10, heart attacks at 40 and 50, bypass surgery, congestive heart failure and cervical spine surgery. He recited his near-misses enthusiastically, as if they were a resume, not of suffering but of
Donnie was a gifted athlete who ran track and played varsity football, basketball and golf. He was a beautiful man, and we fell hard in love as teenagers. We graduated together in 1964 from Lawrence High. When we married and settled in Woodmere, his second home was the Lawrence Golf Club, where his father was president and then, 50 years later, he was president. In recent years his home course was on Longboat Key, Fla., where last year he was named Most Inspirational Golfer of the Year, an award they created for him.
Don started his own business in 1969, selling slippers and bras and panties. He loved selling, and he was the best salesman because he could out-wait, out-talk and outlast any buyer he encountered.
He always found the best in others because, truly, that was all he saw. He drew on a deep well of generosity and kindness.
Our children, Jason, Rochelle, Jocelyn and Josh, were, as Auden said, his north, south, east and west. His grandchildren, Sabrina, Jacob, Elijah and
Emi, brought light and delight into his life. “Did you talk to the kids today?” was his mantra.
Despite his lifelong medical issues, Don was a rough and ready traveler, up for any adventure. We spent five summers exploring Montana when the kids were teenagers, and then for decades we traveled the world, from Komodo Island, in Indonesia, to the Alaska wilderness, from Bali to Singapore to Tasmania and New Zealand. Nothing stopped him.
Obituaries are the last public words written about someone. I never expected to write Donnie’s obituary, which I hope is more like telling the story of his life. Which is also the story of my life. As Cummings wrote, I carry his heart in my heart.
He trusted me to shepherd him through these last years, to get to the right doctors, to hold hands as we heard the diagnoses that limited his days. He wanted time, he said over and over again. I did my best, but time was not in my hands. I believe he would have wanted me to write this, the last words about him, from a place of love and longing, happy remembrance, and sadness that he did not have more days to grace our lives.
Copyright 2026 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
FraMework
by Tim Baker
My Morning Jacket performed at the Great South Bay Music Festival, in Patchogue’s Shorefront Park, last Sunday.
