Courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Broadcasting teacher Matt Russel, Mepham High School senior Allison Redican, teacher Lisa Kalish and CBS meteorologist Craig Allen at the Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting mobile booth set up.
By HeRneSTO GALdAMe Z hgaldamez@liherald.com
Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s annual STEAM Career Fair returned to John F. Kennedy High School on April 21, bringing students, families and professionals together for an evening of handson learning — and building on recent statewide recognition for the program.
More than 50 businesses, schools, medical professionals and organizations participated in this year’s fair, offering students a firsthand look at careers in science, technology, engineering, art and math.
Among those in attendance were representatives from Northwell Health, the state Department of Environmental Conserva -
tion, Weill Cornell Medicine, Barracuda Networks, Delta Airlines, Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology, and Civil Air Patrol. Several Kennedy alumni also returned to share their experiences.
Throughout the evening, students explored interactive exhibits and workshops featuring virtual reality, flight simulations, robotics, and 3D printing, while also networking directly with professionals about their day-to-day work and potential career paths.
“This event exemplifies the district’s commitment to STEAM education while connecting students with the professional community,” Roger Bing, the district’s science and STEAM chair, said. “It was especially
By HeRneSTO GALdAMe Z hgaldamez@liherald.com
Bellmore Movies and Showplace is facing pushback from local religious leaders over its screening of the film “Palestine 36,” with members of the Merrick-Bellmore Board of Rabbis calling the movie historically misleading and harmful.
The film was shown at the theater on April 22 and 23, according to the theater’s website.
According to IMDb, “Palestine 36” is a historical drama set during the 1936 Arab Revolt in British-controlled Palestine, following events surrounding rising tensions and conflict in the region.
W e’re seeing a world where antisemitism is very prevalent.
R ABBI IRA eBBIn Congregation Ohav Sholom
In a letter sent April 21, the rabbis wrote they were “deeply troubled” by the decision to screen the film, describing it as “a work of serious historical distortion that renders Jewish people as faceless villains and erases their humanity from the record.”
Rabbi Ira Ebbin of Congregation Ohav Sholom said his concerns — and those of fellow rabbis — are based on reviews of the film and criticism from historians.
“I didn’t see the film — I only read the reviews,” Ebbin said. “But based on what I read, including from the author of the original book, the movie does not represent what he wrote and does not reflect historical facts.”
The film is often discussed alongside Oren Kessler’s nonfiction book “Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt and the Roots of the Middle East Conflict,” which won the 2024 Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature. While the book is a historical account of the Arab Revolt and its broader political context, the film is a 2025 historical drama directed by Annemarie Jacir that centers on the Palestinian experience of the uprising. Kessler has said there is no connection between his book and the film, describing “Palestine 36” as a “fictional rewrite” rather than a strict historical adaptation.
Continued on pAge 9
Nolan Auyeung, Ethan Cohen, Lucas DeMatteo,
and Isaac Tetenbaum recently represented Bellmore-Merrick at the Math Olympiad Tournament held at Kellenberg Memorial High School.
The Merrick Avenue Middle School Math Team earned second place in the team competition at the Math Olympiad Tournament held at Kellenberg Memorial High School.
Representing Bellmore-Merrick, the team competed against 30 public and private middle schools from across Long Island.
Nolan Auyeung, Ethan Cohen, Lucas DeMatteo, Jaydon Tabakhov and Isaac Tetenbaum secured the second-place
finish through their performance in the competition.
Team members Furmaan Khan, John McGuire, Nicholas Porcaro, Mitchell Sapir and Terrance Xian also took part in the tournament, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and representing Merrick Avenue throughout the event.
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
A John F. Kennedy High School senior is earning recognition on a regional stage after her artwork was selected for a prestigious museum exhibition showcasing some of Long Island’s top young talent.
Tiffany Yam’s piece debuted in late March as part of Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at the Heckscher Museum of Art, the only juried exhibition on Long Island that offers high school students the opportunity to display their work in a professional museum setting.
Yam was among 87 students selected from 456 submissions representing 69 high schools across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Participants were tasked with creating original works inspired by pieces from the museum’s permanent collection.
“Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Long Island’s Best has been a hallmark of the Museum’s educational programming for three decades, showcasing the outstanding work of over 2,000 high school students from across Long Island,” the museum said in a statement. “What began as an annual exhibition of outstanding student work has become a lasting tradition — one that recognizes excellence while nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers.
Long Island’s Best continues to be the only juried exhibition for Long Island high school students that provides the opportunity to exhibit in a museum.”
received the Renzo & Lynette Bianchi Scholarship Award and was recognized during an awards ceremony held March 29. She is a senior in Vanessa Albaneze’s Advanced Placement Drawing class at Kennedy High School.
Her artwork, titled “Encased,” was inspired by Katinka Mann’s piece “Navy,” and explores themes of contrast and perception.
“Encased” #234 by Tiffany Yam, colored pencil on illustration board. John F. Kennedy High School, grade 12, teacher Vanessa Albaneze.
In addition to being chosen for the exhibition, Yam
“My piece, ‘Encased,’ was inspired by Katinka Mann’s ‘Navy,’” Yam said. “Mann’s exploration of depth perception and dimensionality inspired me to create a similar work centered around threedimensional shapes. I aimed to capture the feeling of a dark and foreboding shell hiding a beautiful and inviting interior — a bullet case concealing a red lipstick.”
Yam created the piece by photographing a bullet lipstick casing and the lipstick itself, then digitally layering and splicing the images before rendering the final composition on illustration board using colored pencils.
“Using that reference image, I created an image on an illustration board with colored pencils,” she said. “The image explores contrasting sensory phenomena like cold versus warmth and softness versus hardness, the contrasting objects relative to human versus weapon.”
Yam’s work will remain on display at the Heckscher Museum through May 5.
She is also among 27 students selected to have their work featured at the Firefly Gallery from May 7 to 20. An opening reception is scheduled for May 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Earlier this school year, Yam earned a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her piece “Congratulations,” and a Silver Key for her self-portrait, “Flickers.”
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Over 20 of Bellmore’s best performers are preparing for three special shows throughout the month of May. The Bellmore Players, a musical group affiliated with Congregation Beth Ohr, will hold a series of cabarets to raise funds for CBO’s Hebrew school.
There will three shows at the CBO Merrick Annex. They will be held on May 3 at 2:30 p.m., May 13 at 7 p.m. and May 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person.
Event Producer Ira Levy is one of the founding members of the Bellmore Players. 26 years ago, he and other local artists assembled to share their passion for performance while supporting local causes.
“I personally love music,” Levy said. “We’re doing this first and foremost to raise money to support the community, and, of course, to have fun… The fundrais-
ing angle is for the kids in the Hebrew school you know, in the school to provide more resources and tools for learning.”
“The temple does one of these cabarets every year, and this is my first year with them,” said Music Director Bruce Bider. “I was most eager to come aboard… It’s just a general treasure trove of popular songs ranging, oh my goodness, ranging from operetta to Carole King and Billy Joel, with a lot of Broadway in between.”
Melissa Berman, a Bellmore resident and employee at the Herald, will sing at the cabaret.
“I’ve been doing theater a little over 20 years… I heard about the cabaret run by Ira Levy, and I went out, I auditioned and joined,” she explained. “It’s always a lot of fun because you get to pick what song you want to sing and bring your own life and flair into it.”
The Bellmore Players were a special opportunity to pursue artistic growth and make new friends within the
neighborhood.
“My experience has been really nice,” Berman said. “It’s genuinely a place where people uplift each other… You’re coming together for your love and passion of theater, of singing, of Broadway and wanting to showcase your talents and having fun while doing so.”
The show offers many attractions, including a rendition of “No Business Like Show Business” from Annie Get Your Gun, which took Broadway by storm in about 80 years ago.
The cabaret also features ballads, dramatic pieces and instrumentals of all kinds for all ages.
For more information, contact Ira Levy at (516) 6474467.
Earlier this school year, Yam earned a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her piece “Congratulations,” and a Silver Key for her self-portrait, “Flickers.”
Is there a fee charged for making funeral pre-arrangements?
There is absolutely no fee or other charge in New York State when you make “pre-arrangements”. Moreover when you pre-fund those arrangements through the Pre-Plan Trust there is no additional expense in establishing the trust account. A trust account that remains under your control and your funds are FDIC insured.
No commission, no set-up fees, no extra expenses. Just accurate, helpful information, and a plan that conforms to all New York State Regulations and SSI-Medicaid regulations as well. An enhanced rate of interest on the Pre-Plan Trust enables us to guarantee the funeral home costs when a complete funeral is arranged and paid for.
If you would like to discuss these issues, call us and we’ll arrange to have one of our licensed funeral director professionals meet with you and answer your questions.
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Thomas L. Kearns, Patrick J. Kearns, Paul C. Kearns-Stanley (516) 794-0500 or 1-800-640-9500 (NYS)
445 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow (across from the East Meadow Post Office) www.LEOFKEARNS.com
EAC Network last week became Long Island’s lead agency for child protection services with the opening of the Nassau County Child Advocacy Center in Bethpage, expanding its coordinated response to child abuse, sexual exploitation and trafficking across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
An estate plan consists of a set of documents for older adults most often consisting of a trust, power of attorney, health care proxy and other supporting documents providing certain legal, financial and health instructions. Most people, and even many attorneys, consider the tangible documents to be the plan, the exchange of which, for payment, constitutes the completion of the transaction.
In our view, it is the “relationship” between the client and the law firm, intangible though it may be, that is of greater value. Only the relationship can provide the benefits needed to fully effectuate the plan. First among the intangibles is the peace of mind which the client is seeking in creating an estate plan in the first place. This requires an inquiry into the capabilities and sensibilities of each family member. The substitute decision-making that will be entrusted to others demands nothing less. As to the passing of assets, we are as concerned with the emotional legacy, as with the financial legacy, the client will leave to those loved ones who survive them.
Secondly, for any estate plan to be effective,
care and attention not to mention experience, in funding the plan -- in other words getting the assets either into the trust or left to the trust as beneficiary -- are essential. The extraordinary level of care and knowledge needed to properly fund a trust is, in our experience, often found lacking. You cannot see it, but it is invaluable.
Third, of what benefit is a plan that is inorganic, in other words not subject to change. Some mechanism for the plan to be adjusted as changes in personal circumstances and in the law occur is essential. An estate plan must be designed with a review process so that it works when needed, often decades after it was first conceived.
As a relationship-based, rather than a transaction-based firm, Ettinger Law Firm has developed processes such as not charging for emails and phone calls and providing a free review every three years to provide the safety and security clients are looking for. Together with our proprietary publications and videos, and weekly client newsletter, these features allow our clients to live out the firm’s motto, “Protecting Your Future”.
The ribbon-cutting at 15 Grumman Road West, Suite 1000, included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, District Attorney Anne Donnelly, NYS Office of Children and Family Services officials.
EAC Network already operates the Suffolk County Child Advocacy Center; with the Nassau location, it now oversees child advocacy centers in both counties.
“Child abuse and sex trafficking don’t stop at county lines, and neither do we,” EAC Network President and Chief Executive Officer Neela Mukherjee Lockel said. “With our Child Advocacy Centers now in both Nassau and Suffolk, the organization is the first in Long Island’s history to offer a unified, island-wide response to child exploitation.”
According to Lockel, the Nassau center has already received nearly 200 referrals for suspected physical or sexual abuse of minors in its first three months.
The Nassau County Child Advocacy Center will operate two main programs under EAC Network’s leadership: forensic interviews, medical evaluations and mental health support for abused children in a child-friendly setting, and the Safe Harbour program for minors under 18 who are victims of sex trafficking and exploi-
tation, offering advocacy and comprehensive services.
“Nassau County is committed to ensuring every child is safe, protected, and supported,” Blakeman said. “By taking the helm of the Child Advocacy Center, they are strengthening our county’s ability to respond swiftly and compassionately to our most vulnerable residents.”
Donnelly called the center “a cornerstone of how we protect children and hold offenders accountable,” noting that the partnership between law enforcement, prosecutors and victim advocates helps ensure trauma-informed care while cases are investigated.
EAC Network works alongside Nassau and Suffolk police, both district attorneys’ offices, the FBI, child protective services, hospitals and mental health providers.
A former child advocacy center client, identified only as Julianna, spoke at the ceremony about the center’s role in her recovery from abuse, calling it “a place where I could begin to rebuild myself.”
EAC Network officials said the new Nassau center is intended to ensure that children facing abuse or exploitation receive coordinated care, advocacy and support closer to home.
A student- and family-suggested book selection helped spark conversations about perseverance and individuality during the April principal’s readaloud at Saw Mill Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District.
“Aaron Slater, Illustrator” by Andrea Beaty was chosen for the monthly program, which is hosted by Principal Jeffrey Rosof and Assistant Principal Daniel Madden and focuses on character education themes. The book tells the story of a boy with dyslexia who struggles with reading but ultimately discovers his voice through his artistic talent.
Rosof and Madden read the book during two assemblies held April 17, fol-
lowed by discussions with students about its themes. Students were also encouraged to reflect on their own personal strengths.
“This story beautifully reflects our shared commitment to inclusion, perseverance and celebrating the unique strengths within each individual,” Madden said. “Through Aaron’s journey, students are reminded that challenges can be pathways to creativity, confidence and self-expression. These values deeply align with our mission to inspire all learners to grow with courage and integrity.”
The selection came after families and students were invited to submit book
suggestions following Pick a Reading Partner week in March, a PTA-supported initiative. A district survey drew strong participation, with “Aaron Slater, Illustrator” emerging as a popular choice.
Madden said the read-aloud also served as a lead-in to the school’s upcoming Career Day, which will be held in partnership with the PTA. He noted that the story underscores how talents and passions can shape future opportunities and reinforce the idea that there are many paths to making a meaningful impact.
— Hernesto Galdamez
17, which focuses on character education. There were assemblies for grades K-3 and 4-6.
WANTAGH Senior LACROSSE
A DYNAMIC THREE-SPORT athlete, Paccione last spring helped lead Wantagh to Nassau and Long Island Class C lacrosse championships and earned All-America honors. He followed that up this fall as a major contributor to the Warriors’ county football title. This spring, the University of Villanova bound attacker was leading Nassau County in points with 72 (26 goals and 46 assists) as of April 28. He has over 300 career points.
Thursday, April 30
Baseball: Plainedge at Wantagh 4:30 p.m.
Baseball: Lynbrook at V.S. North 5 p.m.
Softball: East Meadow at Clarke 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Elmont at Freeport 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Massapequa at South Side 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Freeport at Bell-Merrick 5 p.m.
Flag Football: East Meadow at V.S. District 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Long Beach at Glen Cove 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Bethpage at Plainedge 5 p.m.
Friday, May 1
Softball: East Rockaway at Freeport 4:15 p.m.
Softball: Syosset at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Softball: V.S. South at V.S. Central 5 p.m.
Softball: Kennedy at Seaford 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Carey at Mepham 5 p.m.
Baseball: Lawrence at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.
Baseball: South Side at Calhoun 5 p.m.
Baseball: Carey at MacArthur 5 p.m.
Softball: Oceanside at Massapequa 6 p.m.
Saturday, May 2
Softball: South Side at Floral Park 10 a.m.
Flag Football: East Rock. at West Hemp. 10 a.m.
Softball: Baldwin at Hewlett 2 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com
Kennedy girls lacrosse is riding a four-game win streak, with victories against Floral Park, Baldwin, Hewlett and most recently last Friday over Carey.
In those four games, the Cougars have outscored opponents 59-27 and improved to 9-3 overall and 6-1 against Conference III rivals.
Senior Samantha Frank (31 goals), freshman Mia Monzidelis (also 31) and senior Jordana Wohlleben (29 goals, 21 assists) are proven goal scorers. Kennedy coach Mallory Freely says she wants everyone to be a threat.
“I think that’s the key to any really great team,” Freely said. “Losing that ability to say, ‘oh, we have to faceguard one kid;’ it’s a very hard strategy to come up with when you have seven threatening players. Kristen Lichtenstein is a left-handed senior and she just had a game-winner in quadrupel overtime against Floral Park. I’m loving how everyone’s rising to the challenge this year.”
Monzidelis had five goals and three assists in the 16-4 win over Carey. Freshman Lauren Blanshan added two goals and three assists, while Wohlleben put together a sixpoint night on two goals and four assists. Frank put together her fourth, 4+ goal night, with four in this one.
“For the past four seasons, [captains Frank and Wohlleben] have been go-to kids since their freshman year,” Freely said. “They have ener-
gy for days. Jordana especially, she never runs out of steam. They’re defensive and
offensive. They have that hunger to score and they’re great leaders.”
Freshman goalie Daniella Diel has stood on her head throughout the season. The caveat is, she’s never played lacrosse until this spring. Freely coaches her in basketball, and thought, “she’d make a great goalie.”
Diel has taught herself the game by watching college games, and it’s translated well to the field. She recorded her 100th save in the win over Carey, where he stopped five shots. Her 15-save performance in an 8-5 win over New Hyde Park on March 26 is the most saves she’s made in her career.
“The girls worked very hard together from all aspects of field,” Freely said about the win over Carey. “Big defensive-caused turnovers and connecting the dots in transition really made our attack shine. They executed our pregame plan very well.”
Freshman Danielle Donoghue and eighth-grader Bree Frankel each recorded a goal inthe Cougars’ 19-9 win over Hewlett April 21. The young bucks have been contributing as well.
“They all just support and uplift each other,” Freely said. “The other day, before our game, we were like, ‘What do we need to do to make the playoffs?’ Kids never really bring that up to me in both sports until it starts getting closer down the line and the fact they want it and thinking of ways to help us get there is really impactful. I love hearing that they want to go to Conference II and that they want to challenge themselves.”
Kennedy is back in action at East Meadow May 6 at 5 p.m.
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Herald Community Media received 11 awards at the New York Press Association’s 2025 Better Newspaper Contest. The awards were presented at the organization’s spring convention in Saratoga Springs on April 23-24.
Creative Designer Jeffrey Negrin took first place for Best Special Section Cover, Division I, for the Herald’s basketball section. Karen Millindorf was the photographer.
“The layout is clean and bold,” the judges said. “Good use of the isolated subjects placed center frame and the text is well balanced. Overall solid.”
Negrin also placed second in the same category for a Rockville Centre cover. “The mostly monotone color scheme is well complimented to [the] line art doodle graphic,” the judges said. “The lightness of the graphic placed center frame is well balanced with the heaviness of the text at both the top and bottom of the layout.”
“It’s always an honor to be recognized by our peers,” Herald Community Media publisher Stuart Richner said. “We’re proud to continue telling the stories of our communities, and I congratulate our team on this well-deserved recognition. Ultimately, our greatest reward is delivering comprehensive local news to our readers each week.”
Vice President of Sales Rhonda Glickman, Special Sections Editor Karen Bloom and Negrin combined their talents and captured second place for Best Special Section in Advertising, Division I.
“An eye-catching and meaningful special section,” the judges said. “The editorial is local, informative and well writ-
ten. The ads complement the section and align with the section’s intent.”
Negrin and Advertising Director Ellen Reynolds partnered to grab second and third place in the Best Multi-Advertiser Pages.
“This piece does a nice job of capturing the spirit of this campaign and community,” the judges said of the secondplace submission, “combining the multiple advertisers into a harmonious layout. A subtle mix of patterns and color makes a strong impression. Well done.”
Of the third-place entry, the judges said, “A fun piece that visually captures the reader while being based on a strong concept that is a service to the community. The art and topography are appropriate for the theme and lend themselves to the overall mood of the piece. Nice job.”
“Good journalism doesn’t chase applause — it chases accountability,” COO Brad Harmon said. “That’s what makes me proud and reminds me why the work we do matters.”
On the editorial side, Copy Editor Jim Harmon and Production Designer Yolanda Rios received second-place recognition for editorial pages that appeared in all 24 weekly editions of the Heralds. “This was a close second,” the judges said. “The editorial writer is excellent.”
Staying on the editorial page, Managing Editor Jeffrey Bessen, Harmon and Zack Richner combined their efforts to take third place in Editorials, Division 1.
“Three editorials delve into some of the troubling dangers of our time — unaddressed impacts of long Covid; Meta abandoning moderators and the implications on civility and democracy; and the harshness of the housing crisis,” the judges said. “All are told with
perspective and expertise.”
Multiple sports stories that appeared in the Massapequa Herald Post were part of the package that took second place in Sports Coverage, Division 1.
“Greatly enjoyed the range of stories covered in this issue, from the longtime Hofstra soccer coach to the Ryder Cup volunteers,” the judges said. “Well written and attractive layout, easy to read.”
It takes a great team to bring back awards from NYPA — we have the best!” Glickman said. “From finance to sales to editorial, production, press, circulation etc. Together we win!”
For Online Breaking News, Will Sheeline, editor of the Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff/Glen Head Heralds, and past reporter Luke Feeney placed second for their story “Pirate Booty founder Robert Ehrlich addresses attempt to seize control of Village of Sea Cliff.”
The judges said: “The reporters not only identified Robert Erhlich first as the person behind the attempted power grab, but also landed the first on-therecord, exclusive interview with him and posted it online before state, national and international outlets followed. Excellent use of community trust and source relationships to turn a chaotic, somewhat bizarre local power struggle into a clear, timely story.”
Sports Editor Tony Bellissimo and Negrin earned third place for Special Sections/Niche Publications for the Herald’s lacrosse book.
“Very well organized, and comprehensive,” the judges said. “Visually appealing and something for everyone who likes Lacrosse.”
Sheeline also took third place in the Environment Story category for his “Keeping the ‘oyster’ in Oyster Bay” story.
The Herald’s Basketball section was a winner in the category Best Special Section Cover.
“I kept reminding myself that this is a reporter’s award and not an award for which environmental project was the coolest,” the judges said. “And this project was cool! I’ve decided not to hold it against the reporter, however, because the reporter has done an excellent job of making me feel invested in these people and this place and their oysters without getting mawkish or too purple in the prose.”
For the Better News Contest, 150 newspapers submitted 2,732 entries and competed in 67 categories, and a total of 389 awards were presented. The Michigan Press Association judged the contest submissions in January.
rewarding to see the level of interaction and genuine interest exhibited by those in attendance.”
The event’s continued success comes as the district’s STEAM Career Fair was recently recognized by the New York State School Boards Association as a “Champions of Change” program, for highlighting initiatives that make a meaningful impact in schools across the state. The program was selected from among dozens reviewed.
Gerard Owenburg, Kennedy’s principal, said the recognition underscores
the fair’s role in preparing students for the future.
“This year, we were honored that the New York State School Boards Association recognized our STEAM Career Fair as a program of excellence,” Owenburg said. “Since its inception, this event has grown into a cornerstone of our school’s mission to provide real-world, meaningful experiences for our students.
“For us, the true success of the STEAM fair lies in those moments when a student connects with a professional and realizes a new career path is within
their reach,” he added. “By bringing these industry experts to Kennedy High School, we are empowering our students to see themselves as the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.”
The fair was originally developed by Rob Soel, BellmoreMerrick’s former STEAM chair, and Barbi Frank, the district’s director of advanced science research and the event’s organizer, with the goal of connecting students directly with professionals across a wide range of industries.
“The STEAM Career Fair is an incredible opportunity for our community to gain firsthand experience by connecting with professionals, learning about their day-to-day work and hearing the highlights of their careers,” Frank said. “It’s an enjoyable night for all, and it’s clear that everyone walks away having learned something new.”
Leading up to the event, Kennedy
also hosted its annual medical Scrabble fundraiser, where students competed in a science-themed version of the classic game. For the second consecutive year, seniors Cole Stern and Joseph Littman took first place.
Organizers said the fair continues to grow each year, strengthening connections between students and industry professionals while helping young people explore potential career paths.
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Dozens of students at Sanford H. Calhoun High School, in Merrick, put their money down for some muchneeded stress relief last week, raising money for mental health awareness by taking part in an after-school Pie-aTeacher fundraiser, a friendly, if onesided, game of dodgeball.
Last Friday, students were given sponges soaked in whipped cream that they tossed across a booth at members of the school’s faculty for donations of $5 per throw.
Calhoun’s senior Student Leadership class voted for the event as its “passion project” after many students shared their own experiences with prioritizing mental health. Their instructor, Brian Joyce, teaches a number of leadership classes in the school. As a part of the senior class’s curriculum, the students propose community service projects connected to a cause they are passionate about, Joyce explained.
“Two of the students proposed doing a campaign to bring awareness to mental health, since mental health is something that a lot of students in high school suffer through,” he said. This led to the creation of Pie-ATeacher.
The student team’s vision went beyond the sponge toss. The leadership class is also hosting an awareness campaign in which students talk about the importance of caring for their mental health in gym classes.
“They conducted an awareness campaign where they present to the gym classes about mental health, some statistics and letting the kids know they’re not alone, and where they can reach out to get help,” Joyce said.
The proceeds of the event will benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness, just in time for Mental Health Awareness Month, which is recognized in May. The alliance is a nonprofit that has been involved in public policy, help lines and educational services for 45 years, guided by its vision of a world in which all people have fulfilling lives regardless of their mental health struggles.
Andrew Buono, a senior at Calhoun, was one of the students who planned the event. “I think it’s a great organization,” he said of the alliance, “and we’re addressing such a serious topic in a fun and lighthearted way, where everybody can be involved.”
Fellow senior Ryan Karis saw the event as an important opportunity to connect with classmates while supporting a good cause.
“This is such a big part of our job as leaders at Calhoun,” she said. “Being a part of the Leadership Class, one thing that we focus on is volunteer work and service, and as a class, we decided upon this fundraiser, recognizing how important mental health is today, especially among students.
“We thought that bringing this event here today would be an amazing way to not only promote awareness for mental health within our school,” Karis added, “but also all around by donating all proceeds to NAMI.”
Teacher George Lessig was subject to a few throws, enthusiastic about adding some extra fun toward the end of the school year.
“I think it’s great any time you could raise money for a good cause like mental health awareness, and teachers are willing to participate and have fun with their students,” Lessig said. “I guess any time there’s a chance to pie your teacher in the face, kids will take advantage of that.”
School Counselor Brianna Scotland walked away from the booth smiling.
“A few of my lacrosse players had come up to me and asked if I would get pied today to raise money for mental health,” she said. “So, naturally, I put my head in there, and I think I got 10 sponge pies to the face … it’s everywhere, but all for a good cause. I’m really happy that they collaborated for mental health this year.”
The seniors of Calhoun’s Leadership classes planned a special way to end the semester: playfully settling the score with teachers while raising funds for peers.
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
Calls to protect religious institutions from harassment and intimidation took center stage last Friday morning at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County.
There, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi unveiled the bipartisan Safeguarding Access to Congregations and Religious Establishments from Disruption Act, known as the SACRED Act, legislation Suozzi said would address growing concerns among his constituents about safety at houses of worship.
“There’s too much hate in our country right now,” Suozzi said. “A lot of people are being intimidated as they enter into their religious institution to practice their faith.”
The bill, co-led by Rep. Max Miller, a Republican from Ohio, would make it a federal crime to intentionally intimidate, obstruct or harass individuals within 100 feet of a place of worship, including blocking their path or approaching within 8 feet with the intent to harass.
Suozzi said the measure “ensures that people can access their place of worship safely and without obstruction, while still preserving First Amendment protections for peaceful expression.” He added that it draws “a clear line: Intimidation and threats have no place in our communities.”
“We at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center understand religious persecution,” Alan Mindel, the center’s chairman, said, “and so we are so proud to stand with Congressman Suozzi in protecting the rights of all Americans, regardless of where they pray.”
Leaders of several national advocacy and faith organizations attended the event, including represen-
Community leaders, elected officials and faith advocates gathered at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County to highlight efforts to protect religious institutions and ensure safe access to places of worship.
tatives of the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, Hadassah and the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America.
According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitism has reached historic levels, with 9,354 incidents recorded in 2024, underscoring concerns about the safety of those attending religious services.
“Religious freedom thrives where respect prevails,” Azhar Azeez, CEO of the Islamic Society of North America, said. “Let every place of worship be a sanctuary free from intimidation, obstruction or harassment so all people may practice their faith in peace, dignity and safety within every sacred space.”
The proposal has also drawn political criticism.
Mike LiPetri, who is challenging Suozzi for his 3rd Congressional District seat in November, said he believed the congressman had not been sufficiently vocal on the issue in the past.
“Now in an election year he wants to take action?” LiPetri wrote in a statement to the Herald. “We’re not buying it.”
Rep. Laura Gillen, who was not in attendance, emphasized the need for additional protections.
“In the wake of rising hate crimes in our own backyard, we must safeguard our houses of worship and ensure every Long Islander has the freedom to gather without fear of violence,” Gillen wrote. “Establishing buffer zones is a step in the right direction.”
Residents across Long Island are being asked to take part in the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive on May 9 by leaving donations at their homes for pickup.
Island Harvest Food Bank and the National Association of Letter Carriers are partnering for the nationwide one-day effort.
Community members can leave nonperishable food items and personal care products in a bag by their mailboxes, where letter carriers will collect them during regular delivery. All donations collected on Long Island will support Island Harvest’s network of community-based food pantries and feeding programs.
The need remains significant, according to Randi Shubin Dresner, president and chief executive of Island Harvest Food Bank, which distributed a record 21 million pounds of food across Nassau and Suffolk counties last year.
“Hunger and food insecurity impact about a quarter of a million Long Islanders, including children, families, older adults, and veterans — and virtually every ZIP code is affected,” Shubin Dresner said in a news release. “We have always depended on the generosity of Long Islanders to support their neighbors. The Stamp Out Hunger food drive is an easy yet powerful way for our community to come together. When Long Islanders act as one island for one day, the impact is extraordinary.”
Items needed include canned goods, cereal, pasta, rice, boxed juices and shelf-stable milk. Prepared food and items in glass containers are not accepted. Personal care products such as toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant and disposable diapers are also accepted.
Tom Siesto, executive vice president of NALC Branch 6000, said that letter carriers see the effects of
food insecurity every day.
“Our members see firsthand the impact of food insecurity on Long Island during their daily routes,” Siesto said in the release. “We are proud to partner
with Island Harvest once again and to help bring neighbors together for the 34th annual Stamp Out Hunger food collection. This one day when letter carriers and residents unite island-wide makes a real difference.”
Stamp Out Hunger is held annually on the second Saturday in May, and has collected more than 2 billion pounds of food nationwide since it began in 1993.
Last year, Long Island residents donated more than 360,000 pounds of food, enough for more than 600,000 meals. Island Harvest aims to collect more than 500,000 pounds this year.
This year’s collection campaign on Long Island is supported by presenting sponsor National Grid, lead sponsor JPMorgan Chase, and IPRO Healthcare, along with nearly 40 additional corporations.
Island Harvest Food Bank is a leading human-services organization whose mission is to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island. It has organized innovative programs and services aimed at enhancing hunger awareness, short-term case management, nutrition education, outreach and advocacy initiatives, its Healthy Harvest Farm, a Workforce Skills Development Institute, and efficient food collection and distribution.
Island Harvest’s work directly supports children, families, seniors and veterans who turn to the organization in times of crisis, and supports a network of community-based nonprofits. Its Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks leading the effort to combat hunger in the United States. To learn more, go to IslandHarvest.org.
–Jeffrey Bessen
You don’t have to be a kid to love bubbles. Step into the museum’s bubble playroom and see why bubbles are fun for any age.
By Abbey Salvemini
For many folks a trip to the Long Island Children’s Museum isn’t just a childhood outing, it’s a shared community memory. Now, those of us “big kids” who grew up visiting here will have a chance to step back inside but this time as grown-ups.
Relive the wonder of childhood at the museum’s inaugural “Adults Only Nostalgia Night” on May 6. Open to guests ages 23 and up, this after-hours event (starting at 6:30 p.m.) offers a lively, playful reimagining of a beloved local destination — welcoming visitors to explore familiar exhibits in a whole new light, long after the kids have gone home.
“This has been something that’s been talked about for years,” Communications Coordinator Stephanie Silver says. “We have so many people who came here as kids and are now bringing their own children or even grandchildren. There’s always been this desire to come back and experience it again for themselves.”
That idea recently gained momentum online after a nostalgic TikTok post comparing the museum’s former Stewart Avenue location with its current home in Garden City went viral, creating a wave of former visitors in the comments reminiscing and sharing memories.
The result is an occasion designed to feel equal parts reunion and night out.
For three hours, the museum’s galleries are open exclusively to adults, giving guests the rare opportunity to explore exhibits at their own pace. From the popular bubble station to newer installations, visitors can revisit old favorites or discover exhibits they may have missed.
“It’s really about giving people the freedom to explore,” Silver explains. “They can go wherever they want, spend as much time as they want, and just enjoy it without any responsibilities.”
Beyond exploring the exhibits, the evening comes
alive with a DJ spinning crowd pleasing hits from across the decades, inviting guests to hit the dance floor or simply enjoy the music. Classic games add a touch of friendly competition, while photo stations capture the fun along the way. Together, these elements transform the museum into a vibrant, social “playground,” a striking departure from its usual daytime pace. The result is a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where nostalgia, play and connection come together for a memorable night. Light bites and refreshments are available; admission includes two drink tickets for beer and wine. Organizers aim to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where everyone can mingle, unwind, and rediscover a beloved space in an entirely new way — all without straying far from home.
Guests are also invited to take part in hands-on memory-making activities throughout the evening. Design your own I Heart LICM friendship bracelet to keep as a personal memento, or contribute to the Nostalgia Wall by posting photos and sharing stories from past visits. Over the course of the night, the growing display will reflect decades of community connection — ranging from childhood snapshots to treasured, multigenerational memories — woven together into a heartfelt collective tribute.
For Silver, that piece hits close to home.
• Wednesday, May 6, 6:30-9 p.m.
• Tickets are $45 per person, $40 members, with limited availability; Advance registration and valid ID required
• Visit the events calendar at licm.org for tickets and additional information
• 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
“I grew up coming here,” she says. “My own photos will be up there. It’s special to see how many people have that same connection.”
While designed to be lighthearted and fun, the museum’s educational spirit remains an underlying thread throughout. Exhibits originally created to spark curiosity in children take on a new dimension for adults, offering a fresh perspective that invites reflection, rediscovery and a touch of wonder in a familiar setting.
“That’s actually the easiest part,” Silver adds. “Everything here is already grounded in education. The nostalgia just comes naturally.”
If the evening proves successful (as expected), museum leadership aims to make this a recurring offering and potentially expand it in future seasons, building on what’s anticipated to be strong community enthusiasm.
“We’d love to make this a reoccurring event,” Silver says, enthusiastically. “But we also want to hear from visitors … what they enjoy, what they want to see. This is really about the community.”
Nostalgia Night will offer something that’s familiar yet new: a chance to revisit a childhood staple, reconnect with friends or neighbors and see a well-known local institution in a completely different light.
“We want people to walk away feeling reconnected, not just to the museum, but to that sense of joy and creativity,” Silver adds. “Play is just as powerful for us as adults as it is for the children.”
And for those who recall spending rainy afternoons or birthday parties inside the museum’s walls, this might feel somewhat like coming home — only this time, with music, companions and no curfew.
For the past five-plus decades, over 8,000 live shows and more than 15 million albums sold, George Thorogood and The Destroyers have been “The All-American Rock & Roll Party Band” (Goldmine Magazine). In celebration of their 53rd year of “playing rock ‘n roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps and flood the world’s major population centers” (Rolling Stone), the group continues The Baddest Show On Earth Tour — a stage-shaking, roof-raising, guitar-snarling blast. For an artist whose music honors the blues, rock and country legends of the past, Thorogood’s forward momentum is now stronger than ever. And along with longtime Destroyers Jeff Simon (drums), Bill Blough (bass), Jim Suhler (guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), they continue “to slap a custom flame paint job onto those classic sounds” (Blues Blast Magazine) like never before.
Saturday, May 2, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Love, regret and second chances take center stage in a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud solo show directed by Broadway veteran Chazz Palminteri. Written and performed by comedian Peter Fogel, the 90-minute multimedia performance blends sharp humor with heartfelt reflection on the realities of modern relationships. At the heart of the story is Fogel himself — an eternal bachelor blindsided by a Valentine’s Day breakup that forces him to confront more than just heartbreak. As he wrestles with questions of love, timing and personal growth, he’s guided by his own conscience, voiced by Palminteri, in a clever theatrical device that adds both wit and depth. What follows is a whirlwind of storytelling as Fogel transforms into more than a dozen characters, Saturday, May 2, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $40. Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org.
Friday Night Car Show
1
Drop by to check out hundreds of antique and custom cars, every Friday, through Oct. 30.
• Where: Bellmore LIRR parking lot on Broadway between Bellmore and Bedford avenues.
• Time: 5-10 p.m.
Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,” back at the museum by popular demand. With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the award-winning “Pigeon” picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!), this show is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party! It’s not easy being the Pigeon since you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can finally do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also May 2 and May 6-7
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Get ready for a weekend of running, celebrations and more as the Jovia Financial Credit Union Long Island Marathon returns to Eisenhower Park through May 3.
• Where: Eisenhower Park , East Meadow
• When: Races on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at various times
• Contact: RunLongIlsnadMarathon.com
2
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 Isabel Sanchez Vergara’s “Little People Big Dreams.” 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.
MAY 8
and guest artists Janey Choi, violin; and Michael Roth, viola, performs a captivating program including works by Ravel, Mendelssohn, and Dvorák
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
MAY
13
Teen Switch Tweens/teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to stop by Bellmore Library to play Super Smash Bros. Library controllers are provided.
• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave.
• Time: 3:45-4:30 p.m.
• Contact: bellmorelibrary.org
MAY
15
Tote Bag Decorating Decorate tote bags at Bellmore Library to be given out to the adult summer reading club participants.
• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave.
• Where: Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville
• Time: 8 p.m.
Ben Folds, widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of his generation. brings his latest tour to the Tilles Center, joined by multi-talented actress-singer- composer Lindsey Kraft. Known for pushing genre boundaries, Folds first rose to prominence with Ben Folds Five before launching a wide-ranging solo career that blends sharp lyricism, piano-driven melodies and orchestral ambition. Over the years, he has released multiple solo albums alongside collaborative projects, earning an Emmy nomination and a devoted global following. His most recent pop album (2023) drew critical praise and played to sold-out audiences, followed by a holiday release in 2024. Folds’ recent work also reflects his deep engagement with orchestral music, including a live album featuring a live orchestral performance of his hits recorded just before concluding his eight-year tenure as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center — an appointment that marked a first for the role. Today, he continues to move fluidly between pop tours and performances with leading orchestras worldwide, while also developing new work for film, television and theater. A bestselling author and former podcast host, Folds remains a restlessly creative force — an artist constantly expanding the reach of his music.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Enjoy two delightful days of romance, revelry, and refinement in true Jane Austen-style at the lush estate. Step onto the grounds, don your finest gowns and cravats, and prepare for a weekend of charm, wit, and elegant amusements. Stroll the gardens, try your hand at lawn games and crafts, enjoy classical melodies, test your Austen knowledge, and admire the finery of fellow guests dressed for the occasion. Between diversions, indulge in sweet treats at the café and discover Regency-inspired treasures in the gift shop. Visit the website for programming details.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Ongoing, through May 3
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
brings the thrill of the Games to fans/ Headlined by Ilia Malinin, the “Quad God” and Olympic Gold Medalist Alysa Liu, Olympic Silver Medalists Madison Chock & Evan Bates, the tour also stars National Champions Isabeau Levito, Amber Glenn, Jason Brown and more. Feel the passion, precision and power of the U.S. National Figure Skating Team — live on the ice.
• Where: 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont
• Time: 4 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com
Join Long Island Children’s Museum’s animal educator in the Hive Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of the museum’s “residents.” Meet some of our real-life animals up close.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100
• Where: 2616 Martin Ave.
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
MAY
9
Enjoy a variety of scones, teas, sandwiches and desserts. $30, $20 12 and under. Reservations required.
• Where: 2400 Bedford Ave.
• Time: 1-4 p.m.
• Contact: Kathy at (516) 305-3139
Eisenhower Craft Fair
Check out the many craft vendors at Eisenhower Park.
• Time: 3:45-4:45 p.m.
• Contact: bellmorelibrary.org
Live After Five Don’t miss out on Merrick’s Live After Five, back for another year. Merrick Community Civic Association hosts an evening dedicated to supporting local businesses. Participating restaurants and shops offer special promotions for the evening for all customers. Enjoy music at the Gazebo near the LIRR (weather permitting).
• Where: Along Merrick Avenue, from LIRR to Loines Ave, and into the Merrick Mall.
• Time: Beginning at 5 p.m.
• Contact: For the most up to date list of participating businesses, check out @ MerrickLiveAfterFive on Instagram
5 Storybook Stroll
MAY 3
Stars On Ice Celebrate America’s skating superstars! Fresh off their Olympic performances, the 2026 Stars on Ice tour
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 1:30-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
MAY
North Merrick BOE meets The Board of Education holds its next meeting.
• Where: Eisenhower Park, Field 8
• When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. also May 10, weather permitting
• Contact: NassauCountyFairs. com
Visit Old Westbury Gardens for an evening of chamber music as presents in the intimate and elegant Red Ballroom. Ensemblein-residence Poetica Musica Quartet featuring Eric Wyrick, violin; Eugene Moye, cello;
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.
New data released by the Alzheimer’s Association shows Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern for families in New York and an increasing public health challenge.
According to the association’s 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, 426,500 residents age 65 and older in New York are living with Alzheimer’s disease. The disease continues to take a significant toll, with 3,208 deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s and a statewide mortality rate of 16.1 deaths per 100,000 people.
The impact extends beyond those diagnosed, with 776,000 New Yorkers serving as unpaid caregivers, providing an estimated 1.3 billion hours of care valued at $33.8 billion.
“The latest data show Alzheimer’s remains a growing challenge for families in New York,” Anthony Marino, territory vice president of the Northeast for the Alzheimer’s Association, said. “That’s why it’s critical to keep advancing research and developing treatments that can improve outcomes and support everyone facing the disease, including people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in New York and their families.”
The report also highlights the scope of the crisis nationwide. An estimated 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s. Annual care costs, excluding unpaid caregiving, are projected to reach $409 billion this year. Nearly 13 million family members and
Stu Goldman/Herald
New data shared by the Alzheimer’s Association reveals a growing concern for families in New York and an increasing public health challenge. The organization holds an annua walk in East Meadow’s Eisenhower Park, typically in October.
friends provided more than 19 billion hours of unpaid care last year, and since 2000, U.S. deaths from Alzheimer’s have increased 134 percent.
An accompanying special report, “Brain Health in America: Understanding and Supporting Lifelong Cognitive Health,” points to a gap in awareness that contributes to the public health challenge. Survey results from more than 3,800 adults age 40 and older found that while nearly all respondents view brain health
as equally important as physical health, only 9 percent say they know a lot about how to maintain it. More than two-thirds reported concerns about their brain health or the risk of developing dementia.
“The survey makes clear that Americans care deeply about brain health, but many want more clarity about what steps to take,” Douglas Davidson, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter, said. “There’s a real opportunity to strengthen awareness and
empower people with straightforward guidance that fits into everyday life.”
To address those needs, the Alzheimer’s Association is working with partners to deliver research-backed information and programs to help people support their brain health across community, workplace and health care settings. These efforts are informed by the U.S. Pointer study, which found that combining multiple healthy habits can help protect cognitive function.
Locally, the Alzheimer’s Association will host the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sunday, Oct. 4 at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, bringing together residents, caregivers and advocates to raise awareness and support for those affected by the disease.
The full 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report is available at alz.org/ facts and will be published in the April 2026 issue of Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research, with a mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and other dementia through research, risk reduction, early detection and quality care. For more information, visit ALZ.org or call (800) 272-3900.
—Jordan Vallone
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
HEARING OF THE BELLMOREMERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District will hold a Public Hearing on May 6, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the Boardroom of the Central Administration Building located at the Brookside Educational Center, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, Merrick, New York, for the purpose of transacting all business as is authorized by the Education Law, including, but not limited to, discussion of the expenditure of funds and budgeting therefore relative to the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expenditures of the Central High School District for the school year 2026-2027 and on propositions involving the expenditure of funds or the levy of tax, at which time and which place all persons interested in the subject matter thereof concerning the same will have an opportunity to be heard.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO
GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for school purposes (school budget) and copies of propositions involving expenditure of moneys and the operation of the school system for the ensuing year, will be available to any taxpayer in the District seven days immediately preceding the public hearing except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at each schoolhouse in which school is maintained during the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report, prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part; and shall be posted on District Bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices, as well as on
the District’s website.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE DISTRICT CLERK
The above notice will be published in the Bellmore and Merrick Herald Life newspapers on Thursday, April 2, 2026, April 16, 2026, April 30, 2026 and May 14, 2026. 159351
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
DISTRICT CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
EL AVISO SE HA DADO
AQUÍ que la Junta de Educación del BellmoreMerrick Central High School District celebrará una audiencia pública el 6 de mayo de 2026, a las 7:30 p.m. en la Sala de la Junta del Edificio de Administración Central ubicado en la Centro Educative Brookside, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, Merrick, Nueva York, con el propósito de tramitar todos los negocios según lo autorizado por la Ley de Educación, que incluye, entre otros, la discusión de los gastos de fondos y presupuestos, por lo tanto, en relación con la apropriación de fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos necesarios del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias para el año escolar 2026-2027 y sobre las propuestas que involucran el gasto de fondos o la recaudación de impuestos, en qué momento y en qué lugar todas las personas interesadas en el tema del mismo en relación con el mismo tendrán la oportunidad de ser escuchadas.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DE AVISO que una copia del estado de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente con fines escolares (presupuesto escolar) y copias de las propuestas relacionadas con el gasto de dinero y el funcionamiento del sistema escolar para el año siguiente , estará disponible para cualquier contribuyente en el Distrito siete días inmediatamente antes de la audiencia pública, excepto los sábados, domingos o días festivos, en cada escuela en la que se mantenga la escuela durante las
horas de 8:00 a.m. y 4:00 p.m.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DE AVISO que un Informe de Exención del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, preparado de acuerdo con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, se adjuntará a cualquier presupuesto provisional / preliminar, así como al presupuesto adoptado final del cual formará parte; y se publicarán en el (los) tablón (s) de boletines del Distrito que se mantendrá para avisos públicos, así como en el sitio web del Distrito
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE
SECRETARIO DE DISTRITO
El aviso anterior se publicará en los periódicos Herald de Bellmore y Herald de Merrick el Jueves, el 2 de abril de 2026, el 16 de abril de 2023 y el 30 de abril de 2026. 159353
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ANNUAL SCHOOL DISTRICT VOTE OF THE BELLMOREMERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual vote of the qualified voters of the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District, Nassau County, New York, will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the several polling places designated by the Bellmore, Merrick, North Bellmore, and North Merrick Union Free School Districts, as follows:
BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the Charles A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center, 2750 South St. Marks Avenue, Bellmore, New York between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the Merrick District Office-Katherine E. Reif Administration Center, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, New York, between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the North Merrick Public Library, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York, between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
For the following purposes:
PROPOSITION NO. 1CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, is authorized to expend the sums in the General Fund Appropriate of two hundred ten million, three hundred sixtyfour thousand, one hundred thirty-one dollars ($210,364,131) to be raised through taxation in the several districts included with the Central High School District after first deducting the monies available from state aid and other sources.
PROPOSITION NO. 2 -
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Bellmore Merrick Central High School District is hereby authorized to expend $2,500,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund established in May, 2024 for the purpose of performing the following projects; (1) elevator reconstruction; (2) public address and intercom system renovations; (3) masonry renovations; (4) flooring and ceiling renovations; (5) gymnasium partition replacement; (6) sewage ejector system replacement; and (7) HVAC renovations; (8) sidewalk replacements, all at Wellington C. Mepham High School, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto. Since the funds to be expended hereunder come from the Capital Reserve Fund approval of this proposition will not require a tax levy upon the real property of the district. This Proposition shall be independent of Proposition No. 1.
PROPOSITION NO. 3 -
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL
NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, at the Newbridge Road School, 1601 Newbridge Road, North Bellmore, New York, between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
RESERVE FUND RESOLVED, that pursuant to Education Law Section 3651, the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District is hereby authorized to establish a Capital Reserve Fund for the purpose of funding the following capital improvement projects: instructional and non-instructional space improvements/ renovations/upgrades, (including but not limited to classroom improvements/ renovations/upgrades and/or additions to existing facilities), auditorium renovations, gymnasium renovations, cafeteria renovations, library/multi media center renovations, exterior renovations/ reconstruction, computer/ technology upgrades, security system upgrades, plumbing improvements/ renovations/upgrades, electrical improvements/ renovations/upgrades, HVAC improvements/ renovations/upgrades, energy efficiency improvements/ renovation/upgrades, including the installation of solar power, improvements/ renovations/upgrades, fuel tank replacement, renovations required for compliance with ADA requirements, vocational and career preparation renovations, portable classroom replacement and/or purchase, roof/gutter/ leader replacement, window replacement, structural renovations including masonry, brick and steel replacement, paving and concrete replacement, interior and exterior door/ entry ways replacement (including hardware), toilet room renovations, lighting upgrades, ceiling replacement, floor replacement, wall replacement, boiler replacements, elevators, carpentry renovations, purchase of buildings/ land, site renovations/ reconstruction including track resurfacing and turf field replacement, press box/dugout/ field house improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, bleacher improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, upgrades of signs, athletic field renovations/ reconstruction, tennis court renovations, playground renovations, lockers/locker room renovations, public address/clock system replacement, sound system upgrades,
telephone system upgrades, hazardous material remediation, storage space renovations, furnishings and equipment, including the purchase of vehicles.
The maximum amount of the aforesaid Capital Reserve Fund shall be $20,000,000, plus investment income. The probable term is to be twenty (20) years. The funds are to be transferred from surplus monies remaining in the general fund, capital fund, and/or in other reserves not to exceed $5,000,000 from the 2025-2026 budget and thereafter in an annual amount of not more the $5,000,000 for each remaining year of the term. The Superintendent of Schools or his designee is hereby directed to deposit monies of this reserve fund in a separate bank account to be known as the “Facilities Improvement Program 2026.”
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that registration shall be conducted at the several polling places stated above by the Boards of Registration of the several component districts as follows: the Bellmore Union Free School District at the District Office, Winthrop Avenue School, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, New York, on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.; the Merrick Union Free School District at the Administrative Office, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, New York on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.; the North Bellmore Union Free School District at the Office of the District Clerk, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, New York, on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.; and the North Merrick Union Free School District at the Harold D. Fayette School, 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, New York, on all school days of the school year until five (5) days preceding the vote between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified
voters entitled to vote at the school meeting and election for which such register is prepared, in the manner provided by law. The register, as so prepared, will be filed in the office of the clerk at each of the respective Union Free School Districts as set forth in this notice of meeting and such register is to be open for inspection at reasonable times for at least five (5) days prior to the date set for voting on the budget and election, except Sunday, and by appointment on the Saturday prior to the election at each elementary district.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a person shall be entitled to vote at the annual meeting and election who is a citizen of the United States, eighteen years of age, a resident of the Union Free School District in which he intends to vote for a period of thirty days next preceding the election he offers to vote and registered to vote for said election. A person shall be registered to vote if he or she shall have permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections or with the Board of Registration of the component Union Free School District in which he resides. Only persons who shall be registered shall be entitled to vote.
AND NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Boards of Registration of the several component Union Free School Districts will meet during the hours of voting on May 19, 2026 at the polling places in each of the Union Free School Districts for the purpose of preparing a register for district meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 19, 2026; said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the Union Free School Districts, who shall present themselves personally for registration; and (2) all qualified voters permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for school purposes (school budget) and copies of propositions involving expenditure of moneys and the operation of the school system for
the ensuing year, may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen days immediately preceding the annual vote except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at school district offices and any schoolhouse within the district and on the district’s website.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that applications for early mail voting and absentee ballots for the school district election may be applied for at the Office of the Clerk of the District. Applications for early mail voting and absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/ her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No early mail voting or absentee voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the day of the election. A list of all persons to whom early mail voting and absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection at the Office of the Clerk until the day of the vote.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of
the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE
DISTRICT CLERK
The above notice will be published in the Bellmore Herald and Merrick Herald newspapers on Thursday, April 2, 2026, April 16, 2026, (REVISED)April 30, 2026 and May 14, 2026. 159882
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE VOTO ANUAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR
BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
EL AVISO SE HA DADO AQUI que el voto anual de los votantes calificados del BellmoreMerrick Central High School District, el Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, se llevará a cabo el Martes, el 19 de mayo de 2026, en los varios lugares de votación designados por el Bellmore, Merrick, North Bellmore y North Merrick Union Free School Districts, de la siguiente manera:
BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, en el Charles A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center, 2750 South St. Marks Avenue, Bellmore, New York, entre las 6:30 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, en la Merrick District Office-Katherine E. Reif Administration Center, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, Nueva York, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT en la escuela Newbridge Road, 1601 Newbridge Road, North Bellmore, Nueva York, entre las 6:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
NORTH MERRICK UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, en la Biblioteca Pública de North Merrick, 1691 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, Nueva York, entre las 6:30 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
Para los siguientes propósitos:
PROPUESTA NUMERO 1- PRESUPUESTO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL DE EDUCACIÓN SECUNDARIA SE RESUELVE, que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias CHSD) de BellmoreMerrick, ciudad de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, está autorizada a gastar las Sumas apropiadas del fondo general de $210,364,131 que se recaudarán mediante impuestos en los distintos distritos incluidos dentro del Distrito Central de Escuelas Secundarias después de deducir, primero, los fondos disponibles correspondientes a la ayuda estatal y otras fuentes.
PROPUESTA NUMERO 2 - PROYECTOS DE MEJORAS DE CAPITAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL DE EDUCACIÓN SECUNDARIA
SE RESUELVE, que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central de Bellmore Merrick queda autorizada para gastar $2,500,000 del Fondo de Reserva de Capital establecido en mayo de 2024 con el propósito de realizar los siguientes proyectos: (1) reconstrucción del elevador; (2) renovaciones del sistema de altavoces e intercomunicación; (3) renovaciones de mampostería; (4) renovaciones de pisos y techos; (5) reemplazo de particiones del gimnasio; (6) reemplazo del sistema de expulsión de aguas residuales; (7) renovaciones de HVAC; (8) reemplazo de aceras, todos en la Escuela Secundaria WellingtonC. Mepham, incluyendo toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costos incidentales relacionados. Dado
que los fondos a utilizar provienen del Fondo de Reserva de Capital, la aprobación de esta proposición no requerirá un impuesto sobre la propiedad inmobiliaria del distrito. Esta Proposición será independiente de la Proposición No. 1.
PROPUESTA NUMERO 3 - FONDO DE RESERVA PARA INVERSIONES DE CAPITAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL SE RESUELVE, que de conformidad con la Sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación, por la presente se autoriza a la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Central de BellmoreMerrick a establecer un Fondo de Reserva para Inversiones de Capital con el fin de financiar los siguientes proyectos de mejoras de capital: mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de espacios educativos y no educativos (incluyendo, entre otros, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de aulas y/o ampliaciones a las instalaciones existentes), renovaciones de auditorios, renovaciones de gimnasios, renovaciones de cafeterías, renovaciones de bibliotecas/ centros multimedia, renovaciones/ reconstrucción exterior, modernizaciones de computadoras/ tecnología, modernizaciones de sistemas de seguridad, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de plomería, mejoras/ renovaciones/ modernizaciones eléctricas, mejoras/ renovaciones/ modernizaciones de HVAC, mejoras/ renovación/ modernizaciones de eficiencia energética, incluida la instalación de energía solar, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones, reemplazo de tanque de combustible, renovaciones requeridas para el cumplimiento de los requisitos de ADA, renovaciones para la preparación vocacional y profesional, reemplazo y/o adquisición de aulas portátiles, reemplazo de techos/canaletas/ bajantes, reemplazo de ventanas, renovaciones estructurales, incluido el reemplazo de mampostería, ladrillo y acero, repavimentación y reemplazo de concreto, reemplazo de puertas interiores y exteriores/vías de acceso (incluidos los herrajes), renovaciones de baños,
mejoras de iluminación, reemplazo de cielorrasos, reemplazo de pisos, reemplazo de paredes, reemplazo de calderas, ascensores, renovaciones de carpintería, adquisición de edificios/terrenos, renovaciones/ reconstrucción del predio, incluida la repavimentación de pistas y el reemplazo de campos de césped, mejoras/renovaciones/ modernizaciones de cabinas de prensa/ refugios/instalaciones deportivas, mejoras/ renovaciones/ modernizaciones de gradas, modernización de letreros, renovaciones/ reconstrucción de campos deportivos, renovaciones de canchas de tenis, renovaciones de áreas de juego, renovaciones de casilleros/vestuarios, reemplazo del sistema de megafonía/relojes, modernización del sistema de sonido, modernización del sistema telefónico, remediación de materiales peligrosos, renovaciones de espacios de almacenamiento, mobiliario y equipo, incluida la adquisición de vehículos.
El límite máximo del Fondo de Reserva para Inversiones de Capital se establece en $20,000,000, incluyendo los rendimientos generados por las inversiones. Se prevé un plazo de veinte (20) años para la ejecución del mismo. Los fondos se transferirán desde los excedentes remanentes en el fondo general, el fondo de capital y/o otras reservas, sin superar los $5,000,000 en el presupuesto 20252026. Posteriormente, se asignará una cantidad anual que no excederá de $5,000,000 por cada año restante del plazo. Se instruye al Superintendent of Schools, o a la persona que este designe, a depositar los fondos de esta reserva en una cuenta bancaria separada denominada “Facilities Improvement Program 2026”. a.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que el registro se llevará a cabo en los lugares de votación indicados anteriormente por Las Juntas de Registro de los varios distritos componentes de la siguiente manera: la Bellmore Union Free School District en la
Oficina del Distrito, Winthrop Avenue School, 580 Winthrop Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York, en todos los días de clases del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días anteriores a la votación entre el horario de 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m.; la Merrick Union Free School District en la Oficina Administrativa, 21 Babylon Road, Merrick, Nueva York, en todos los días de clases del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días anteriores a la votación entre las horas de 9:30 a.m. y 3:30 p.m.; la North Bellmore Union Free School District en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York, y en todos los días de clases del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días anteriores a la votación entre el horario de 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m.; y la North Merrick Union Free School District en la escuela Harold D. Fayette, 1057 Merrick Avenue, Merrick, Nueva York, en todos los días escolares del año escolar hasta cinco (5) días antes de la votación entre las 9:00 a.m. y 3:30 p.m. con el fin de preparar un registro de los votantes calificados con derecho a votar en la reunión de la escuela y la elección para la que dicho registro es preparado, en la forma prevista por la ley. El registro, como así preparado, será archivado en la Oficina del Secretario (District Clerk) en cada uno de los respectivos Distritos Unión Libre como se establece en este aviso y dicho registro sera abierto por inspección en horas razonables hasta cinco (5) días antes de la fecha establecida para votar sobre el presupuesto y la elección del distrito, excepto el domingo, y por cita el sábado anterior de la elección en cada distrito elemental.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que una persona quien es cuidadano de Los Estados Unidos, tenga diez y ocho años de edad y es residente del Distrito Escolar de la Unión en el que se tiene la intención de votar a favor un período de treinta días antes de la elección y esta registrado para votar para la elección dicha tendrá derecho a votar. Una persona debera ser registrada para votar si el o ella han registrado permanente con La Junta de Elecciones del Condado de Nassau (Nassau County Board of Elections) o con La Junta de Registro (Board of
Registration) del distrito donde el o ella reside. Solamente las personas que estan registradas tienen el derecho para votar.
Y ADEMÁS
SE NOTIFICA que Las Juntas de Registro (Boards of Registration) de las varias escuelas componentes tendran una reunion el 19 de mayo 2026 durante las horas de votación en los lugares de votación en cada escuela para el propósito de preparer el registro para que las elecciones tendran lugar despues del 19 de mayo 2026; El Registro incluirá (1) todos los votantes calificados de las escuelas, quines se presentáran personalemente para registro; y (2) todos votantes calificados permanente registrados con la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau (Nassau County Board of Elections).
Y TAMBIÉN
SE DA AVISO que una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente para fines escolares (presupuesto escolar) y copias de las propuestas que involucran gastos de dinero y el funcionamiento del sistema escolar para el año siguiente , puede ser obtenido por cualquier residente del Distrito durante los catorce días inmediatamente anteriores a la votación anual, excepto sábados, domingos o días festivos, en las oficinas del distrito escolar y en cualquier escuela dentro del distrito y en el sitio web del distrito.
Y TAMBIÉN
SE DA AVISO que las solicitudes de votación anticipada por correo y boletas en ausencia para las elecciones del distrito escolar se pueden solicitar en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito. Las solicitudes de votación anticipada por correo y de voto en ausencia deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Además, dicha solicitud debe ser recibida por el Secretario de Distrito al menos siete días antes de la elección si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una boleta por correo,
el Secretario del Distrito enviará la boleta por correo a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. No se escrutará ninguna boleta de votación anticipada por correo ni de votante ausente a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. (horario predominante) del día de la elección. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les habrá emitido la votación anticipada por correo y el voto en ausencia estará disponible para su inspección en la Oficina del Secretario hasta el día de la votación.
Y TAMBIÉN
SE DA AVISO de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Las formas de registro de votantes militares y las formas de solicitud de boletas militares deben ser recibidas en la oficina del secretario de distrito del distrito escolar no más tarde que a las 5:00 p.m. el 23 de abril de 2026. No se escrutará ninguna boleta militar a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario de Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y que muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o de un servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo de otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del secretario de distrito no más tarde que las 5:00 p.m. el día de la elección y firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que se asocia a no ser mas tarde del día anterior de la elección.
POR ORDEN DE LA
JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
BELLMORE-MERRICK
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
PATTIANNE GUCCIONE SECRETARIO DE DISTRITO
El aviso anterior se publicará en los periódicos Herald de Bellmore y Herald de Merrick el Jueves, el 2 de abril de 2026, el 16 de abril de 2026 (revisado) y el 30 de abril de 2026 y el 14 de mayo de 2026. 159883
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, PUBLIC HEARING, ELECTION, AND REGISTRATION OF VOTERS
NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
NORTH BELLMORE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
Pursuant to Section 1716 of Education Law a Public Hearing for discussion of the proposed 2026/27 School District Budget, and such other business as may come before the meeting, will be held on May 05, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Administration Building on Martin Avenue, Bellmore, New York. A copy of the state of the amount of monies which will be required for the 2026/27 school year for school purposes may be obtained, upon request, by any school district resident commencing April 30, 2026 during the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. except for Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.
FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Vote of the qualified voters of the North Bellmore Union Free School District will be held at the Newbridge Road School, North Bellmore, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 for the following purpose:
A. To vote upon the Annual School Budget for the school year 2026-2027 and to authorize levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the North Bellmore School District for such purposes.
B. The election of one (1) member of the Board of Education.
C. To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the meeting. Voting will be by ballot on voting machines and
ANNUAL PUBLIC ELECTION, REGISTRATION OF BELLMORE SCHOOL
BELLMORE, HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY, NEW
Section Education Hearing of the 2026/27 Budget, business before will be 05, 2026, at the Building Avenue, York. A state of the monies which required for the year for may be request, district commencing during 9:00 a.m. except for Sundays or
NOTICE IS GIVEN that Vote of voters Bellmore School held at Newbridge Road Bellmore, May 19, following upon the Budget school year and to levying of a taxable North School District purposes. election of one the Board upon such propositions as come meeting. by ballot machines and
the polls will remain open for voting from 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., and as much longer as may be necessary for all voters then present to cast their votes. Voting will be in the gymnasium of the Newbridge Road School.
Copies of the proposed 2026/27 budget will be available at each of the offices of the school houses in the district, J. G. Dinkelmeyer School, Newbridge Road School, Park Avenue School, Saw Mill Road School and Martin Avenue School between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on each day other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday during the fourteen (14) days preceding the Annual Vote, and on the school’s website.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, an exemption report detailing exemptions from real property taxation shall be available and appended to any tentative, preliminary or final budget.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election of members of the Board of Education will be as follows:
One (1) member of the Board of Education; for full terms of three (3) years, commencing July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2029.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that nominating petitions for candidates for the Board of Education must be filed with the District Clerk between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. not later than April 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Each petition shall state the name and residence of each signor, shall state the name and residence of the candidate, and must be signed by not less than thirty (30) qualified voters of the school district for election of members of the Board of Education. Vacancies on the Board of Education are not considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that at the Annual Vote, qualified voters of the Bellmore-
Merrick Central High School District shall vote for the following purposes:
A. To vote upon the annual budget of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for the year 2026-2027 and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for such purposes.
B. To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the voters.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2014 personal registration of voters is required, and no person shall be entitled to vote at the District Meeting whose name does not appear on the register of the District. Voter registration for the District will be ongoing through and including Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 9:00 o’clock A.M. until 3:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time), on all school days of the school year, at the office of the District Clerk, for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified voters of the District for said District Meeting, at which time any person shall be entitled to have his/her name placed upon such register, provided that he/she is known or proven to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at said District Meeting for which such register is prepared. Immediately upon its completion, the register will be filed in the office of the District Clerk, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District between the hours of 9:00 o’clock A.M. and 3:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) on each of the five (5) days prior to the District Meeting for which it was prepared, except Sunday, and on Saturday, May 16, 2026 by appointment only.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2018a and Education Law §2018-e applications for absentee and early mail ballots may be applied for at the office of the District Clerk. The District Clerk must receive applications for absentee and early mail ballots no earlier than thirty (30) days
before the election. Furthermore, the District Clerk must receive such application at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application, by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No absentee or early mail voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the day of the election.
A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots shall have been issued will be available in the office of the District Clerk, 2616 Martin Avenue, North Bellmore, New York, commencing with the issuance of the first absentee or early mail ballot and during regular business hours on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. (Prevailing Time), except Sunday and on Saturday, May 16, 2026 by appointment only. Such list will also be available at the polling place on the date of the vote. No absentee or early mail voter’s ballot shall be canvassed unless it shall have been received in the office of the District Clerk of the North Bellmore Union Free School District not later than 5:00 o’clock P.M. (Prevailing Time) on the day of Annual District Meeting.
NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a person shall be entitled to vote at the annual meeting and election who is a citizen of the United States, eighteen years of age, a resident of the District for a period of thirty days next preceding the election he offers to vote and registered to vote for said election. A person shall be registered to vote if he or she shall have permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections or with the Board of Registration of the school district. Only persons who shall be registered shall be entitled to vote.
NOTICE IS FURTHER
GIVEN that the Board of Registration will meet during the hours of voting on May 19, 2026 at the polling place of the school district for the purpose of preparing a register for District meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 19, 2026. Said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the school district who shall present themselves personally for registration; and (2) all qualified voters permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Laurice Gunnels District Clerk
This information is provided in Spanish in compliance with the Voting Rights Act of 1965. 159359
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE REUNIÓN ANUAL, AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, ELECCIÓN, Y EL REGISTRO DE VOTANTES
DISTRITO ESCOLAR NORTH BELLMORE UNION FREE NORTH BELLMORE, MUNICIPIO DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
De acuerdo con la Sección 1716 de la Ley de Educación, se celebrará una Audiencia Pública para debatir el presupuesto propuesto del Distrito Escolar 2026/27 y cualquier otro asunto que pueda surgir antes de la reunión, el 5 de mayo de 2026 a las 19:30 horas en el Edificio de Administración en Martin Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York. Cualquier residente del distrito escolar a partir del 30 de abril de 2026 de 2026 a fin escolar podrá obtener una copia del estado del importe que se requerrá para el curso escolar 2026 a petición de cualquier residente del distrito escolar a partir del 30 de abril de 2026, excepto sábados, domingos y 15:00, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos.
SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que la votación anual de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de North Bellmore Union se celebrará en la escuela Newbridge Road, North Bellmore, el martes 19 de mayo de 2026 con el siguiente propósito:
A. Para votar sobre el Presupuesto Anual de la Escuela para el curso escolar 2026-2027 y autorizar la imposición de un impuesto sobre los bienes gravables del Norte Distrito Escolar de Bellmore para tales fines.
B. La elección de uno (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación.
C. Votar sobre otras proposiciones que puedan presentarse adecuadamente ante la reunión.
La votación se realizará por papeleta en las máquinas de votación y las urnas permanecerán abiertas desde las 6:00 a.m. hasta las 9:00 p.m., y durante todo el tiempo que sea necesario para que todos los votantes presentes puedan emitir su voto. La votación se realizará en el gimnasio de la escuela Newbridge Road.
Copias del presupuesto propuesto para 2026/27 estarán disponibles en cada una de las oficinas de las escuelas del distrito: J. G. Dinkelmeyer School, Newbridge Road School, Park Avenue School, Saw Mill Road School y Martin Avenue School entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 horas de cada día excepto sábado, domingo o festivo durante los catorce (14) días previos a la Votación Anual, y en la página web del colegio.
POR FAVOR, TOME MÁS NOTA conforme a la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, estará disponible un informe de exención detallando exenciones de la tributación sobre bienes inmuebles que se adjuntará a cualquier presupuesto tentativo, preliminar o final.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA de que la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación será la siguiente:
Un (1) miembro de la Junta de Educación; por mandatos completos de tres (3) años, comenzando el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizando el 30 de junio de 2029.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las peticiones de nominación para candidatos a la Junta de Educación deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 horas, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026 a las 17:00. Cada petición deberá indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada señor, el nombre y la residencia del candidato, y deberá ser firmada por no menos de treinta (30) votantes cualificados del distrito escolar para la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación. Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos separados o específicos; los candidatos se presentan en la categoría de votos libres. Las peticiones de nominación no describirán ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la que el candidato sea nominado.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA de que en la votación anual, los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Central de BellmoreMerrick deberán votar para los siguientes fines:
A. Votar sobre el presupuesto anual del instituto BellmoreMerrick Central High Distrito Escolar para el año 2026-2027 y autorizar la recaudación de un impuesto sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del instituto Bellmore-Merrick Central High School Distrito para tales fines.
B. Votar sobre otras proposiciones que puedan presentarse adecuadamente ante el votantes.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, conforme a la Ley de Educación §2014, se requiere el registro personal de votantes, y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en la Asamblea del Distrito cuyo nombre no figure en el registro del Distrito. El registro de votantes para el Distrito continuará hasta el jueves 14 de mayo de 2026, desde las 9:00 a.m. hasta las 3:00 p.m. (hora vigente), en todos los días escolares del curso escolar, en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, con el fin de preparar un registro de los votantes cualificados del Distrito para dicha reunión del distrito, en ese momento, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho registro, siempre que se sepa o se demuestre que tiene derecho a voto en dicha Asamblea de Distrito para la que dicho registro se prepare. Inmediatamente después de su finalización, el registro se archivará en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 2616 Martin Avenue, Bellmore, Nueva York, y estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 (hora vigente) de cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos a la reunión del distrito para la que fue preparado, excepto el domingo y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026 solo con cita previa.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, conforme a la Ley de Educación §2018-a y la Ley de Educación §2018-e, las solicitudes para papeletas por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado pueden solicitarse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito. El Secretario del Distrito debe recibir solicitudes para votos por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección.
Además, el Secretario del Distrito debe recibir dicha solicitud al menos siete días antes de la elección si la papeleta debe enviarse al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una papeleta por correo por correo anticipado o por correo postal, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la papeleta a la dirección indicada en la solicitud, a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. No se solicitará el voto de votación por correo anticipado o por correo anticipado a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas (hora vigente) el día de la elección.
Una lista de todas las personas a las que se hayan emitido papeletas por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado estará disponible en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 2616 Martin Avenue, North Bellmore, Nueva York, comenzando con la emisión de la primera papeleta por correo por correo anticipado y durante el horario laboral regular en cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos al día de la elección, entre las 9:00 y las 15:00 (hora vigente), excepto el domingo y el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026 solo con cita previa. Dicha lista también estará disponible en el colegio electoral en la fecha de la votación. No se podrá hacer campaña de votación por correo o por correo anticipado a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar Libre de North Bellmore Union a más tardar a las 17:00 horas (hora vigente) del día de la Asamblea Anual del Distrito.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que una persona tendrá derecho a votar en la asamblea anual y elección que sea ciudadano de los Estados Unidos, de dieciocho años, residente del Distrito por un periodo de treinta días antes de la elección que ofrezca votar y registrada para votar en dicha elección. Una persona estará registrada para votar si se ha registrado permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau o
en la Junta de Registro del distrito escolar. Solo las personas que vayan a estar registradas tendrán derecho a voto.
SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la Junta de Registro se reunirá durante el horario de votación del 19 de mayo de 2026 en el colegio electoral del distrito escolar con el fin de preparar un registro para las reuniones o elecciones del distrito que se celebrarán después del 19 de mayo de 2026. Dicho registro incluirá (1) todos los votantes cualificados del distrito escolar que se presenten personalmente para su registro; y (2) todos los votantes cualificados registrados permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau.
SE AVISA ADEMÁS de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del distrito escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una papeleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, solicitud de papeleta militar o papeleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de papeleta o papeleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de papeleta militar deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito escolar a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 23 de abril de 2026. No se revisará ninguna papeleta militar a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o que muestre una avalación fechada de recepción por parte de otra agencia del gobierno de Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del día de las elecciones y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo, con una
fecha asociada a no más tardar que el día anterior a la elección.
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
Laurice Gunnels Secretario de distrito
Esta información se proporciona en español en cumplimiento de la Ley de Derecho al Voto de 1965. 159361
LEGAL NOTICE SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County. WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE RESIDENTIAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES TRUST X-A, Plaintiff -againstUNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOS KYRIAKOULIAS; PETER KYRIAKOULIAS, INDIVIDUALLY, AND AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOS KYRIAKOULIAS; TASIA VIETH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOS KYRIAKOULIAS; THEONI KYRIAKOULIAS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOS KYRIAKOULIAS; NORTH SHORE PLUMBING SUPPLY CO., INC.; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants Index No. 618072/2025.
Mortgaged Premises: 2841 Grand Avenue Bellmore, NY 11710 Section: 56 Block: 417 Lot: 34 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of
America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a mortgage to secure $375,000.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on June 7, 2005, in Liber Book M 28918, at Page 746, Control Number 1702, covering the premises known as 2841 Grand Avenue, Bellmore, NY 11710. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the reverse mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located.NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 159806
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. BUPM NJ ASSETS LLC, Plaintiff -against- KENT HONG, JOSIE HONG, CHESTER HONG, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated April 7, 2025 and entered on April 9, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction “Rain or Shine” on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 1, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Bellmore, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Westerly side of Newbridge Road, distant 250 feet Northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Westerly side of Newbridge Road to the Northerly side of Orange Street; being a plot 131.87 feet by 45.47 feet by 132.47 feet by 54.46 feet.
Section: 56 Block: 203 Lot: 102
Said premises known as 2312 NEWBRIDGE ROAD, BELLMORE, NY 11710
Approximate amount of lien $721,140.91 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.
Index Number 613262/2023.
MARIA SIDERIS, ESQ., Referee KRISS & FEUERSTEIN LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 360 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1200, New York, NY 10017
{* BELLMORE L*} 159692
Richner Communications, Inc. public notice rates will increase at a minimum of 9% for all notices published on or after May 1, 2026, to reflect rising production and distribution costs. To place a public notice contact 516-569-4000 x232.
The letter echoes those concerns, stating that “the erasure of Jewish voices from the film is stark,” and noting that “nearly 400,000 Jews… [are] rendered entirely invisible.”
Rabbi Josh Dorsch of Merrick Jewish Centre said the concerns come at a particularly sensitive time for the community.
“At this moment in time, we are experiencing a rise in antisemitism. Many Jews are feeling particularly vulnerable and at times unsafe,” Dorsch said. “As a community, we have found the theater to be a warm and welcoming environment. We have hosted children’s events over Passover, and we screened a Holocaust documentary for the community in commemoration of Holocaust Remembrance Day.”
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
He added that the film, as described in the rabbis’ letter, contributes to harmful narratives.
“As was mentioned in the letter, this particular film presents distortions of historical events, and it plays into a narrative which is not just a distortion of the truth, but plays into antisemitic tropes,” Dorsch said. “Choosing to show this film is hurtful and insensitive to members of our community. We would encourage conversations and dialogue to discuss our perspective and why we believe screening this film is insensitive and hurtful.”
The rabbis also tied their concerns to broader societal issues, writing that “in the current climate of rising antisemitism, the screening of such a film in our community carries consequences that cannot be ignored.”
Ebbin said the reaction among local rabbis was unified.
“When I spoke to the other rabbis in the community, they completely agreed with everything the letter said,” he noted. “We’re seeing a world where antisemitism is very prevalent, and some -
thing like this promotes hatred, lies and propaganda.”
While acknowledging the importance of free expression, both the letter and Ebbin emphasized that their request is rooted in concern for the local community.
“We do not write as opponents of free expression,” the letter states. “We write because this film… rewrites the past in service of a contemporary political agenda.”
“This is not an issue of free speech,” Ebbin added. “We recognize that. But we believe this is promoting antisemitic propaganda, and as neighbors in a small community, we’re asking them not to show it.”
The letter concludes with a direct appeal to theater management, stating, “We ask you — as neighbors and as members of this community — to reconsider this screening.”
Representatives for Bellmore Movies and Showplace did not respond to requests for comment.
Ebbin said he has attempted to contact theater management through its website and by phone but has not received a response.
“We would like to hear from them,” he said. “At the very least, a response would be appreciated.” Continued from page 1
Four Sanford H. Calhoun High School students earned national recognition for their financial acumen after competing in a major youth business convention in New York City.
Alexa Addonizio, Jack Gunn, Sanjay Singh and Olivia Tristaino, members of the school’s Virtual Enterprise program, were among the top performers at the Youth Business Summit, held April 22 at the Javits Center.
The event brought together hundreds of student-run companies from across the United States and abroad to compete and showcase their work.
The Calhoun team advanced to the National Finance Competition with a
detailed financial strategy for SunBeat, a student-created business centered on tech-enhanced outdoor products. Their proposal ultimately placed them in the top six in the nation and earned them the top spot among New York teams.
SunBeat’s concept combines recreational and environmental elements, offering products designed for outdoor use while incorporating renewable energy features.
The students also aligned their project with local environmental efforts through a partnership supporting cleanup initiatives in Long Beach.
— Hernesto Galdamez
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Q. My daughter is in architecture school, and she has always had an interest in doing more artistic things, thinking outside the box, so to say. When she comes back home after architecture school, she wants to look for somewhere that she can do more artistic designs, not just the ordinary kinds of buildings that you see around us, for the most part. Where would you recommend that she look? What communities are more open to doing unusual designs?
A. Not on Long Island. I, too, was once a starry-eyed young architecture graduate, ready to change the world with groundbreaking designs that inspired forward thinking, etc. I even got an amazing opportunity I didn’t plan on when I was hired to work in a firm that landed three entire cities to redesign Jeddah, Jubail and Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.
Between my minor in city planning and studying with a group called Superstudio in Florence, Italy, I ,too, thought this was the most extraordinary opportunity. And it was, for a time, but the process of building design is very long, and cash flow changes by the day. The city design started with a lot of statistical analysis, referred to as the scope of work or program, which was better suited to an accountant, so that by the time the design phase began, the cost analysis showed that the exciting ideas had to be cut back.
On Long Island, government regulations such as zoning, parking, height restrictions, use allowances, groundwater containment you get the idea create so many restrictions that artistic creativity is limited. Then you encounter architectural review boards that won’t let you deviate from their version of local styles, such as no flat roofs in some communities, to adding colonial trim details and only specific colors. If you ever notice in architecture magazines, most of the more creative, curvy or flat-roof homes are somewhere out away from cities. The land of the free isn’t so free when it comes to suburban building design.
Your daughter will need to search for communities with fewer restrictions, away from populated or conservative towns and villages, if she wants to generate her ideas. You could bond over road trips, like my family did. My father was an aerospace engineer who worked on Saturn, Gemini and Apollo rockets, and my mother was an interior designer, so we set out to find the latest new designs by piling into the family car and traveling all over. Fortunately, with the internet, your daughter can research the regulations of community governments before you drive off to the horizon.
Remember, some things that stand out may have taken many years to even get permission because of restrictions and politics. For example, the Guggenheim Museum, on Manhattan’s Central Park, a complete departure from convention, took 14 years to obtain approvals to build. Even the replacement World Trade Center tower took three years to get final approvals. Your daughter must persist if she wants to fulfill her dreams. Good luck!
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While the headlines have focused on science funding cuts at elite national universities, we shouldn’t lose sight of the local impact. Long Island is home to major research centers, including Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes at Northwell and Stony Brook University, among others.
The $47 billion in cuts to the National Science Foundation and other federal sources of research funding affect those institutions, too. The administration has halted thousands of approved grants for projects focusing on infectious diseases, energy management and quantitative computing, while also releasing staff and curtailing new funding, causing major upheavals in research.
Some now argue that the United States model for research, involving universities, research institutes and private corporations, should change because there’s too much reliance on unstable federal support. Fair enough, but first we should ask how we got here, and how federal support became so important. Our current research enterprise originated in World War II. Reflecting on the
immense and immediate response of universities and scientific laboratories to the war effort, Dr. Vannevar Bush, an engineer at MIT, accepted President Harry Truman’s invitation to write a report on what worked and how to plan for the future.
years. They include support for federal student aid, immigration policy and grant programs for basic and applied research at universities and private companies.
RBush assembled several committees of experts to examine the issues, and wrote an essay entitled, “Science: The Endless Frontier.” In it he summarized the various reports and recommended goals and a strategy for the president to consider.
First, Bush highlighted the fact that many of the discoveries and advances that aided the war effort were made by scholars who had migrated to the United States from countries under totalitarian rule. One conclusion was that immigration was an important source of intellectual talent. A second was that the war had kept millions of Americans from advanced education, and that we should create a program that offered them opportunities to earn college and higher degrees. The G.I. Bill was one result.
esearch here has led the world, and Washington shouldn’t forget that.
The war also gave birth to the Grumman Corporation, which mass-produced aircraft as well as an innovative wing configuration that made it possible to fit more planes on aircraft carriers. The story of how this unique folding feature was developed from a model using two paper clips and a soap eraser is engineering legend. That same spirit launched the lunar module that transported two astronauts to the surface of the moon.
Another example is Brookhaven National Laboratory, established on an unused Army base in1946 by a consortium of nine major universities. Today it is a leader in high-energy physics, materials chemistry, national security and nonproliferation, neurosciences and computational sciences.
A significant source of science innovation is Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, home to eight Nobel Prize winners in physiology and medicine. It has an education division that awards doctoral degrees, hosts international conferences and partners with regional medical schools affiliated with Hofstra/Northwell and Stony Brook University.
Stony Brook’s prominence is grounded in biomedical science, including work that led to the development of magnetic resonance imaging, which was recognized with a Nobel Prize in 2003. Other research is dedicated to understanding and addressing water quality challenges on Long Island, in the interest of restoring the health of bays and waterways, safeguarding fisheries and protecting the coastal environment that is so central to the region’s identity and economics.
A third conclusion was that the country needed systemic support for ongoing research and advanced learning not limited to defense. The National Science Foundation was another result.
The models that Bush’s report inspired have worked well for over 80
The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, established in 1999, is home to 50 research labs, 2,500 clinical trial studies and 5,000 professional and support staff. They conduct research in molecular medicine, genetics, cancer, neuroscience, behavioral science and bioelectronic medicine.
Together, these Long Island enterprises employ thousands and operate with millions of dollars in federal grants. They contribute to improved health outcomes and the economic well-being of individuals and communities. The products and services they develop create businesses, expand services and contribute tax revenue that supports our schools and public services. Rather than shutter these programs, let’s work together to remember why they exist and consider how they can improve even further.
Robert Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”
In January, I received a phone call at my Garden City office that no parent should ever have to make.
Andrew Jedlicka, a father from Merrick, whose 5-year-old son is fighting a rare and debilitating genetic disorder, was desperately seeking help. The only lab in the world treating, and potentially capable of curing, his son was set to shut down because its federal funding had run out.
The lab, in Queens, had been partially funded by grants from a federal program known as the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer. The program is branded as “America’s Seed Fund” for high-risk, highreward medical and technological research and development that is often not attractive to investors. The federal funding is the crucial factor to incentivize and enable private-sector investment
in these types of innovations.
For the Jedlicka family and others, SBIR/STTR program dollars promise a future for a child whose life depends on them. And the program not only aids the families and smallbusiness owners who directly benefit from it; it also grows and strengthens our economy and enhances the United States’ competitive edge and dominance in medicine and technology. For every dollar the federal government invests in SBIR/STTR, taxpayers see a return of $22 to $33 in economic impact.
I helped a unique lab in Queens get some of those crucial federal funds.
The program has supported everything from new, innovative cancer treatments to semiconductors that power our lives to the world’s smallest heart pumps. It should have been reauthorized without delay. Unfortunately, it ground to a halt in late 2025, leaving small businesses and families like the Jedlickas in peril.
Andrew’s plea was heartbreaking — I certainly understood the anguish and
fear his family felt, and was determined to break the gridlock and get his family the help they needed. Reauthorizing the program had broad bipartisan support — a bill had passed the House, but because of delays in the Senate, the program expired without being reauthorized.
I immediately reached out to and pushed my colleagues on the Senate Small Business Committee, including the chair, to work across the aisle to reauthorize the program. Following my efforts, the Senate finally reached a bipartisan deal to reauthorize funding for five years.
After passage of a revised bill in the Senate, followed by the House, with a bipartisan, veto-proof majority, we thought the Jedlicka family’s nightmare might be over. But then, instead of moving to the president’s desk, the bill inexplicably sat on the House speaker’s desk for weeks, awaiting his signature. There was no good reason for this, and on April 1, I demanded that the speaker
act. Two days later, the bill was at last presented to the president, and on April 13 it was finally signed into law.
I’m glad colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together to finally reauthorize the SBIR/STTR program. This long-overdue victory belongs to Andrew and his son, and it is an honor to fight on their behalf. Andrew’s relentless advocacy shows how one father can make a real difference for Americans at a time when constant partisanship in Washington leaves many families feeling helpless. His family, and others facing the diagnosis of a rare disease, should never have faced this uncertainty.
My office is now working to ensure that the National Institutes of Health moves the funding to the lab immediately. We have extended vital medical research funding for the next five years, but Washington should not need a crisis to compel it to act. I will never stop fighting for Long Island families, and will use every tool available to cut through the partisanship and political games that put their futures at risk.
Laura A. Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
atroubling pattern is emerging across Nassau and Suffolk counties — and it should force leaders in both to act with urgency. In recent weeks, there have been a number of serious and fatal crashes involving pedestrians in our communities, from Wantagh to Freeport, Rockville Centre and Lindenhurst.
In Wantagh on March 9, a 53-year-old woman was killed when a pickup truck struck her while it was making a turn at an intersection. On April 4, In Freeport, a 66-year-old man died after being hit while crossing Merrick Road, with police later charging the driver for a hitand-run.
In Rockville Centre on April 10, a 76-year-old woman died of injuries she sustained when she was struck by a vehicle at an intersection. And in Lindenhurst on April 15, an 85-year-old woman was seriously injured when she was hit by a vehicle making a left turn. These were not isolated incidents. They were part of a steady, devastating rhythm of crashes that too often end in tragedy for people doing something routine — crossing the street.
Even in Long Beach, where city officials are now reviewing traffic data in an effort to improve safety, the response remains reactive. Studying the problem isn’t the same as solving it. Long Island has reached the point where analysis
To the Editor:
The “local control” lauded by Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti in his April 16-22 op-ed, “REVIVE Act is the wrong solution to the housing crisis,” is spelled NIMBY, for Not In My Backyard, and he spells it out by rote. On Long Island, local control is widespread, a slogan for a politician’s assertion of veto power.
It is, in effect, a feudal remnant of the creation days of “suburbia,” shaped by the interests of bankers, builders, insurance and real estate. It was an illusion then, and is now a distraction from broader visions needed for a better future. Mr. Ferretti’s claim that REVIVE is the wrong solution suggests some better choice on offer. The one he offers is the status quo — a denial, in effect, that any crisis exists.
The REVIVE Act will benefit the same interests named above, and will not solve the housing crisis alone, but “house” construction is core to any solution, and thus the right one for the present.
must give way to action.
The uncomfortable truth is that Nassau and Suffolk are still operating under an outdated suburban model of road design that prioritizes speed and vehicle flow over human safety. Wide lanes encourage faster driving. Long crossing distances expose pedestrians to danger. Intersections are designed for convenience, not caution.
We do not need to reinvent the solution. We need to look west.
New York City, through its Vision Zero initiative, has spent years reshaping its streets with a different philosophy: that no loss of life on the road is acceptable. That approach has led to lower speed limits, redesigned intersections, pedestrian islands, expanded enforcement and a fundamental shift in the way streets are used. The results haven’t been perfect, but they have been meaningful. Fatalities have declined over time, and the conversation has changed.
Now the city is going even further, considering a “full stop” rule that would require drivers and cyclists to remain stopped at intersections until pedestrians have completely crossed the street — not just cleared their immediate path. It is a simple idea with powerful implications: The pedestrian comes first, fully and without compromise.
Long Island should not wait to see how that proposal plays out. The princi-
ple behind it is already clear, logical, and overdue here.
And not every solution requires tearing up asphalt. Some changes can happen quickly: reducing speed limits on local roads, increasing enforcement of failure-to-yield laws, improving signage and crosswalk visibility, and launching public-awareness campaigns that reinforce a culture of caution.
The data makes this urgency undeniable. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, roughly 90 percent of crashes in the United States are tied, at least in part, to human error — speeding, distraction, poor judgment. That means safer systems are not optional; they are essential. Road design must anticipate mistakes and reduce their consequences.
Long Island has the benefit of proximity to one of the largest real-world laboratories for traffic safety reform. The question is whether its leaders are willing to learn from its city neighbors. How many more deaths will it take before that happens?
The recent fatalities in our area shouldn’t fade into the background of the next news cycle. They should serve as a call to action. Nassau and Suffolk must act now to prioritize pedestrians, redesign dangerous roads and adopt proven safety measures. The cost of waiting is already far too high.
economic trends remain solid on Long Island and across most of the united States, yet consumers still seem “unhappy.” Measures of sentiment, both local and national, are more downbeat than some relevant information would suggest.
For example, inflation, as measured in the consumer price index, continues to moderate from the highs of 2022, up 3.3 percent in March nationwide, while our region was up 3.6 percent. Even with higher gas prices likely to fuel an uptick in inflation overall, we’ve been seeing moderating trends.
Even so, the cumulative increase in inflation since early 2017 remains roughly 32 percent. Prices have gone up over the past five years, and consumers haven’t forgotten it, even if the recent trends are more moderate — or even if they temporarily move in the wrong direction.
To the Editor:
The perception that prices are still going higher can be partially attributed to what we call the Snickers Bar Effect: consumers remember the prices of more frequent purchases. Economists at uBS began examining this issue in early 2024, and it remains highly relevant today. In 2020, the popular candy bar cost $1.50, but today it costs $2.39, an increase of nearly 80 percent. Most consumers, however, don’t know how much their car insurance has gone up over the past few years.
Ysis suggests that in 2015, the average price of a BEc was $3, and in 2020 it was $4.25. Today it’s closer to $7.50. People see the higher prices every morning, which reminds them daily that expenses are higher.
ou’re more likely to know about its price increases than those of your insurance.
We’re all much more aware of the price increases on everyday products, which creates a sense that inflation is still surging. So, even though it has in fact been moderating, most consumers still feel that prices are too high.
For those who don’t scarf down a mix of savory peanuts, caramel and chocolate for breakfast, lunch or a snack several times a week, let’s drill down to a very Long Island-specific product: the bacon, egg and cheese sandwich. Nearly every neighborhood deli or bodega serves it, on a roll or a bagel. Our analy-
Last week was National Work Zone Awareness Week, a nationwide campaign reminding motorists that warmer temperatures bring an increase in construction activities along our transportation system.
Here on Long Island, the state Department of Transportation is scheduled to perform hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of paving and bridge projects this year. For the safety of the highway workers doing this work, NYSDOT will deploy signs, cones, barrels and attenuators to make these work zones as visible as possible. Motorists, however, must also do their part to ensure that our workers return home safely each night: slow down, move over and stay alert. Honoring this simple request can save a life.
Earlier this year, a NYSDOT worker was senselessly struck by a vehicle while setting up a closure on the Long Island Expressway. It’s a miracle that worker survived. Throughout this construction season, in an effort to better protect our workers, NYSDOT will be working with our police partners on targeted enforcement, and will be deploying automated speed-enforcement cameras in our work zones. Thank you for doing your part to keep our highway workers safe.
RIcHARD cAuSIN L.I. regional director, New York State Department of Transportation Hauppauge
To be clear, it isn’t just Snickers, bacon, egg and cheeses or even overall inflation that weighs on purchasers on Long Island. Data shows that consumers are also worried about possible layoffs, the seeming likelihood of artificial intelligence replacing jobs, and the so-called K-shaped economy, in which high earners thrive while low earners struggle. These concerns are real, even if they aren’t fully showing up in the hard economic data.
Recent survey data reinforces this point. A few months ago, PKF O’connor Davies, in partnership with the Siena Research Institute, released its annual Long Island Economic Survey–Outlook 2026. Like consumers, Long Island businesses also seem more worried about the economy, even though current trends are solid. Economic sentiment in
Framework by Tim Baker
the survey is the third lowest since 1995. Even with March housing data showing continued strength and the stock market rebounding dramatically, affordability and inflation for residents of Nassau and Suffolk counties remain issues. If you bought a home five or more years ago, you are sitting on strong price appreciation. But if you’re entering the market today, there aren’t enough reasonably priced alternatives. Entry-level buyers are being squeezed, and affordability remains a major problem. That’s why the Long Island Association and business leaders have been advocating for federal, state and local support for more housing development. Sentiment matters, because it drives spending, hiring and investment decisions. When consumers and business leaders feel downbeat, they may pull back — even in a relatively solid economy. until they begin to feel relief in their day-to-day purchases, housing becomes more attainable and there’s less volatility in economic news, that disconnect is likely to persist, even if the numbers continue to tell a more positive story.
Steven Kent is chief economist at the Long Island Association. Comments? Skent@longislandassociation.org.
