East Meadow Herald 05-22-2025

East Meadow marks another Founders Day

The East Meadow community celebrated the work and accomplishments of the district’s PTAs at its annual Founders Day celebration, held at Leonard’s Palazzo last month. Story, more photos, Page 10.

What’s new in East Meadow? Civic group provides updates on ongoing projects

By JoRDAN VALLoNE jvallone@liherald.com

The Council of East Meadow Community Organizations passed along crime prevention tips during a recent meeting and informed residents about several key initiatives and upcoming projects that will affect the greater East Meadow and Salisbury area. The area is covered by the first and third precincts.

CEMCO leaders began their late-April meeting, held at the East Meadow Public Library, by acknowledging the death of Norma Gonsalves, a former Nassau County legislator and longtime East Meadow resident. Gonsalves, who died in February at age 90, was an integral part of CEMCO’s leadership, running its crime watch committee for many years. Following a moment of

silence, CEMCO’s president, Joe Parisi, announced that John Nikiel, who was part of the crime watch with Gonsalves, has agreed to take on her leadership role.

A 30-year law enforcement veteran, Nikiel said no concern is too small.

“If there’s something happening in your neighborhood, on your street — if something’s happening that concerns you, let me know,” he said.

The crime watch committee meets regularly with local police officials, as well as the East Meadow School District superintendent and school principals, to discuss safety concerns and potential solutions in the community.

Overall, crime is down in East Meadow, Nikiel said, adding that the police department is doing

Performers set to sizzle at National BBQ Festival

By JoRDAN VALLoNE jvallone@liherald.com

Nassau County is gearing up to host this year’s National BBQ Festival, right in the heart of East Meadow in Eisenhower Park, bringing together top pitmasters, sizzling flavors and a weekend of family-friendly fun to Long Island.

The festival, originally held in Georgia from 2002 to 2011, has been on hiatus and will make its highly anticipated return from June 13 to June 15, featuring two full days of competition with a $100,000 prize pool at stake. Along with food, Nassau County officials told members of the press in March that a lineup of musical performances will be featured, along with other forms of entertainment.

Among the performers is “Hip Hop’s Pitmaster,” Warren

G, who is set to perform and compete during the festival. The West Coast rap pioneer, whose real name is Warren Griffin, will headline the festival on June 14, with a high-energy performance and will also step into the pit to compete against some of the country’s top barbecue masters.

A hip-hop artist turned culinary entrepreneur, Warren G has had a significant cultural impact as a rapper, record producer, media personality, philanthropist, and businessman. Best known for his 1994 multiplatinum hit “Regulate,” he has sold an estimated eight to 10 million records worldwide. In recent years, he has turned his passion toward the culinary arts, inspired by his family’s legacy.

In 2019, Warren G launched

Joanna Yee/Herald

Food banks brace for surge if tax-cut passes

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax-cut bill won approval from a key congressional committee on May 18, advancing toward possible passage in the House of Representatives later this week.

The bill involves spending cuts to the Medicaid healthcare programs for lower-income Americans and is set to affect millions who are part of the emergency food system and social service programs on the federal level, including Island Harvest Food Bank that is a leading hunger-relief organization helping to end hunger and reduce food waste here on Long Island.

“We’re calling it an emergency food ecosystem across the island, across the state and across the country,” said Gregory A. May, director of government and community relations for Island Harvest. “A cut to one program is a cut to all programs and folks that are on SNAP benefits, if that is cut, they will be coming to us and other emergency food programs, which will then become more strained.”

SNAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget and will be affected by this bill that is to be decided upon later this week.

“Feeding people who are hungry, particularly feeding hungry children is not a partisan issue,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said at Island Harvest’s headquarters in Melville on May 18. “It’s not a political issue; it’s a moral issue.”

He said that because of what happened in the House there could be many hungry people in the metropolitan area.

“There are going to be hungry veterans,” Schumer said, referring to the

House committee vote. “They’re going to be hungry middle-class people who lost their jobs and are worrying about feeding their kids, so we’re here to sound the alarm about this deeply troubling proposal coming out of the House of Representatives that could push thousands of Long Islanders, tens of thousands of New Yorkers into deeper hunger and hardship.”

He said that every single month, 150,000 people across Nassau and Suf-

folk counties rely on SNAP and this bill will cut $300 billion in nutrition spending that supports a program which helps more than 42 million people nationwide, while providing tax breaks to billionaires.

Hunger has become a growing concern across Long Island with more and more people coming to food banks. Schumer noted that Island Harvest said that their needs are expected to go up 9 percent next year.

“It’s really about the children and the grandparents that are going to feel this impact,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, Island Harvest’s president and CEO. “If these funds are cut, we are at risk of not being able to distribute millions of pounds of food.”

She said that what’s important is that our local officials across the country understand the need and instead of taking a wide brush to make a broad cut, they’re suggesting to do it carefully.

Schumer said that everyone reach out to their Congressional representatives immediately, urging them to not pass this bill.

“We have seven Republicans in New York state, in the Congress, if only four of them said we’re not voting for this bill that cuts food, it wouldn’t happen,” he said. “I’m asking anyone who hears this call to write, email, visit your Congress members and tell them to not do this.”

Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Chuck Schumer addresses concerns with the proposed bill that will make cuts to the emergency food system and social service programs.

Barnum Woods marks 70 years of learning

Barnum Woods Elementary School in East Meadow celebrated its 70th anniversary through several activities earlier this month.

Students and staff members dressed in a variety of groovy, rad outfits to represent each decade of the school’s existence. Additionally, Barnum Woods held a parade as students and their teachers marched around the school.

Barnum Woods Principal Amanda Sagnelli, Assistant Principal Harriet Alfano, and several staff members each gave speeches about this significant milestone. The district congratulates Barnum Woods on celebrating its anniversary and looks forward to the school’s continued path of excellence for years to come.

–Jordan Vallone

Photos courtesy East Meadow School District

Barnum Woods Elementary School in East Meadow celebrated its 70th anniversary.

Staff members joined in on the fun, also sporting rad outfits.

Barnum Woods held a parade as students and their teachers marched around the school.

Students dressed in a variety of groovy outfits to represent each decade of the school’s existence.

Principal Amanda Sagnelli spoke to students about the significance of this milestone.

Family fun, food, and flavor ahead this June

Sniffin’ Griffins BBQ, a venture rooted in childhood memories and the influence of his father, Warren Griffin Jr., a former boxer, black belt, and chef in the U.S. Navy.

“All I wanted to do was be like my dad,” he said in a press package.

Warren G developed a line of handcrafted rubs, sauces and premium products that are gaining traction in the culinary world.

“Barbecue isn’t just food — it’s a lifestyle, a tradition, and for me, it’s personal,” Warren G said in a statement.

“That’s why I created Sniffin’ Griffin’s BBQ — a line of sauces and rubs crafted with real flavor and soul. Being part of the National BBQ Festival is an amazing opportunity to share what I’ve built with a community that truly appreciates the craft. Just like with my music, I put my heart into every bottle and every blend. Whether it’s ribs, brisket, or chicken, Sniffin’ Griffin’s brings that West Coast fire to the pit. It’s about flavor, family, and feeding the culture — one plate at a time.”

He credits the smoky flavors of barbecue and the joy of gathering with family as lasting influences on his life.

“Barbecue has always been a part of my family and the culture — it brings people together the same way music does,” he added.

The National BBQ Festival is expected to draw more than 20,000 attendees, pitmasters, celebrity judges and guests

Capital Gains Tax Tips

Your cost “basis” for calculating capital gains taxes is what you paid for the stock or the real estate. For real estate, the basis gets raised by the amount of any capital improvements you make to the property. When you sell your primary residence you may exclude the first $500,000 of gain if you’re a couple or $250,000 if you’re single. The $500,000 exclusion for a couple gets extended for a sale occurring up to two years after a spouse dies.

For gifts you receive of appreciated stock or real estate during the donor’s lifetime, no capital gains tax is payable. However, the donee receives the donor’s basis. It is generally considered better to wait, if possible, and pass the gift to the donee at death, due to the “stepped-up basis”. The basis of any inherited property is “steppedup” to date of death value. If the property is sold within six months of the date of death, then the sale price is deemed to be the date of death value.

If the property is going to be held for

some time it is helpful to get date of death values to establish the new basis. For real estate, this means getting an appraisal from a licensed real estate appraiser (not a real estate broker!). For stocks, you simply ask the company holding the stocks to provide this information.

When a spouse dies with jointly held property, there is a half of a step-up — the deceased spouse’s half gets stepped-up to date of death value, while the surviving spouse has the original basis. However, for a primary residence the capital gains tax exclusions discussed above continue to apply. With combined Federal and New York capital gains taxes reaching about 30%, it is essential to look at holding onto appreciated property until death (especially if you have taken depreciation on the property which can lower your basis to zero). One should also look carefully at the estate plan to see if property should be transferred to a surviving spouse, or their trust if any, to get another step-up on the second death.

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from across Nassau County, the region, and the nation. Organizers say the event will unite barbecue lovers, foodies, friends, and families for a flavorful, funfilled experience.

“Having Warren G at the National BBQ Festival is as perfect as it gets,” said Jaime Hollander, managing director of the Nassau County-based agency RRDA, which is promoting the event. “A hip-hop legend and a BBQ pitmaster, he’s bringing the best of both worlds — hitting the stage for an unforgettable performance and stepping up to the grill to compete against some of the top pitmasters and teams in the world. Music, barbecue, and an icon who knows his way around both — you couldn’t ask for a better fit.”

In March, Kristin Stucchio-Suarez, program director for the RRDA, emphasized that you don’t have to be on a com-

National BBQ Festival at a glance

When: Friday, June 13 – Sunday, June 15

Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

Headliner: Warren G performs Saturday, June 14

What to expect:

■ Live music performances

■ Celebrity pitmasters and judges

■ Local food vendors and BBQ tastings

■ Family-friendly activities and entertainment

ticket info: Tickets available at NationalBBQFest.com

fun fact: The National BBQ Festival was last held in Georgia in 2011. This year marks its return after a long hiatus, with East Meadow as its new home.

petitive barbecue team to enjoy the upcoming festival, adding that there will be something for everyone to enjoy throughout the weekened in June.

“The festival is going to be a great opportunity for families to come out that weekend,” she said. “If you’re just a backyard barbecuer or just love good food, we welcome you that weekend to just have a lot of fun.”

Warren G’s performance on June 14 will take place at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park. Tickets for the festival, featuring his performance, can be purchased at NationalBBQFest.com. For more on Warren G’s culinary ventures, visit SniffinGriffinsBBQ.com.

Courtesy Sniffin’ Griffin’s BBQ x Warren G

Warren g, a hip-hop artist and founder of Sniffin’ griffin’s BBQ, will headline the national BBQ festival, set for next month in east meadow’s eisenhower park. this is the first time that nassau County will host the national festival.

Area H.S. seniors are sworn into military

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Thirty-five high school seniors from Nassau County showed their patriotism last week by pledging to serve in the United States military.

The enlistees, from high schools in Baldwin, Freeport, Valley Stream, Wantagh and beyond, are in the final steps of enlisting in the armed forces.

“Only about 23 percent of high school seniors could actually go into the military, and only 1 percent actually do — these kids are the top 1 percent,” said Andrea Nordquist, chair of Our Community Salutes of Nassau County. The organization held a celebration to support the military enlistees and their families at the Nassau County Training and Intelligence Center on May 13.

“They’re very under-recognized,” Nordquist said of high school students who commit to military service. “They don’t get the accolades that they should get, and so this ceremony helps to honor them, and we’re also the first ones to say ‘Thank you for your service.’”

Nordquist is also the president of Blue Star Mothers of America’s Nassau County chapter, a supportive network of families with members in the military. Her son, Gregory, is a senior master sergeant in the Air National Guard.

“I watched him grow up, I watched him mature,” she said. “For kids nowa-

days, not only does it help them mature, it gives them direction.

“It will give them G.I. bills — they can go to college for free,” Nordquist added. “It just opens up their whole world, and they can discover what they’re talented at, and get training.”

Edward Kenneweg, a U.S. Navy commander and executive officer, specializes in talent acquisition. During the cere-

mony, he called all Naval enlistees to receive their honors.

“It’s an opportunity for the community to really give appreciation and thanks to those high school seniors that made the big decision to raise their right hand and serve in the military,” he said. Kenneweg and other military personnel were on hand to express their gratitude to the new recruits.

“My job is to support the recruits and ensure they have the right tools and resources to be successful in their jobs, and overcome barriers and obstacles to reach their long- and short-term goals,” he said.

Nahmare Gilson, a student from Malvern High School, was one of the enlistees honored at the event. He chose to join the military as a career path.

“I realized that college might not have been a decision that I wanted to do,” he said. “My grandfather was in the Army, so I just wanted to join the military to see where that could take me.”

Gilson said he looked forward to “meeting new people in new places,” and challenging himself.

Greg Walpole, of Long Beach High School, enlisted to uphold a family tradition and to prepare for his long-term future. “I’m enlisting because of my family’s footsteps,” he said. “My uncle was in and my cousin’s in right now. I’m going in so it’ll pay for my college and all the benefits that it’s going to give to me.”

Walpole said he looked forward to “learning a new field, getting into school and working hard.”

All of the enlistees received a challenge coin, a copy of the Constitution, and took a ceremonial oath of enlistment after performances from the Coast Guard Band and the Wantagh American Legion Pipe Band.

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For event details and to RSVP, visit hofstra.edu/visit

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

Thirty-five high school students from across Nassau County swore the oath of enlistment at the Nassau County Training and Intelligence Center on May 13.

NYCLU challenges ICE pact in Nassau

By AVA DELA PENA

Special to the Herald

Third in a series of stories on immigration through a partnership between Herald Community Newspapers and Hofstra University.

Susan Gottehrer first became interested in the New York Civil Liberties Union as a teenager. When she read about injustices in local newspapers, “It was like, ‘NYCLU to the rescue,’” recalled the now 61-year-old.

As director of the Hempstead-based Nassau County office of the NYCLU, Gottehrer said she finds it more pressing than ever to “come to the rescue,” especially when it comes to immigrant rights.

There’s a fear right now, and nobody should ever have to live like that

SuSAN GoTTEhrEr Director, Nassau County office, NYCLU

“The lack of humanity in the way that we approach immigrant communities is disgusting,” she said. “I come from a family affected by the Holocaust. I understand the concept of ‘othering.’”

In March, County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced that Nassau County police would partner with the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, making it “the first county in America to have a fully comprehensive agreement with ICE under the 287(g) program.”

Blakeman has said that county detectives would only cooperate with ICE in arresting known criminal suspects, but Gottehrer sees the program as one that will not only negatively affect the immigrant community, but also deteriorate Long Islanders’ relationship with law enforcement.

“When the public cannot trust the police — meaning the immigrant communities — then that makes all of Nassau County less safe,” she noted.

Speaking about on the rising concern in Long Island’s immigrant community, particularly the undocumented community, Gottehrer said she has seen the worry that many feel heading to work, sending their children to school or just leaving their homes.

“There’s fear right now, and nobody should ever have to live like that,” she said.

She said she doubted that any immigrant living in such fear would seek the help of law enforcement. “You can bet (many) are not going be reporting crimes,” she said. “If they themselves need help from law enforcement, then they’re not going to trust it, and that creates a situation where no one is safe.

“The police can say all they want, ‘We’re not going to ask for your status,’” she added, “but when they make a 287(g) agreement, why would anyone trust

About the 287(g) program

The 287(g) program authorizes ICE to oversee and delegate state and local law enforcement to perform specific functions of immigration officers under three models:

■ The jail enforcement model, used to identify undocumented immigrants with criminal charges.

■ The task force model, which allows law enforcement to perform immigration duties.

■ The warrant service officer model, which permits law enforcement officers to serve and execute administrative warrants on undocumented immigrants.

Source: Immigration and Customs Enforcement

this year the organization is trying harder than ever to convince elected leaders how “unsafe” 287(g) agreements are. On March 20, multiple activist groups, including the NYCLU, joined more than 50 demonstrators in Hauppauge to rally in support of the act.

In the meantime, the NYCLU is concerned with educating immigrants about their rights. The organization has held a number of “Know Your Rights” workshops to inform immigrants on how to tell the difference between administrative and judicial warrants and how to identify different law enforcement agencies.

“At Know Your Rights workshops, we teach immigrants what a judicial warrant looks like,” Gottehrer said. “An administrative warrant is really just a document that ICE has issued. It’s not backed by the constitutionality of due process or a judge.

“Immigrants have the right to say, ‘That is not a judicial warrant. Leave me alone.’”

them?”

To oppose Blakeman’s pledge to work with ICE, the NYCLU is advocating for the New York For All Act. According to the NYCLU, the legislation would prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies “from colluding with ICE, disclosing sensitive information and diverting personnel or other resources to further federal immigration enforcement.”

According to State Senate Bill 2235, the legislation, if enacted, would:

■ Prohibit and regulate the discovery and disclosure of immigration status.

■ Prohibit police officers, peace officers, school resource officers, probation agencies, state entities, state employees and municipal corporations from questioning individuals about their citizenship or immigration status.

■ Regulate the disclosure of informa-

tion relating to immigration status.

The Assembly version of the measure is Bill A3506.

In January, the bill was referred to the Senate and Assembly Codes committees, where it has sat since. The measure must pass through committee before it can be brought to the full Legislature for debate and a potential vote. Finally, Gov. Kathy Hochul must sign it.

Regardless of whether New York for All were to pass, Gottehrer pointed out that immigration falls under civil, not criminal, law, and local police thus should not be involved in immigration enforcement. “ICE is going do its job. There’s nothing we can do about that,” she said. “But federal jurisdiction is over immigration. Local jurisdiction is over criminal law.”

Though the NYCLU has sought to pass the New York for All Act since 2018,

“If you’re new to the country or if there’s a language barrier, you may not know the different levels of government,” she said.

The NYCLU is also conducting trainings in immigrant communities to identify different law enforcement officers, not only so they can protect themselves, but also so they can alert the organization to any potential ICE activity in Nassau. According to Gottehrer, the NYCLU has been mapping reported activity across Long Island while working within a coalition of other activist organizations.

Ultimately, she said, she wants to ensure through her work with the NYCLU that no one lives in fear. “There’s a lot of misinformation and demonization going on,” she said. “It’s historically where our nation has gone to over and over again: to demonize people from ‘the outside.’”

Courtesy Susan Gottehrer

Susan Gottehrer directs the Hempstead-based Nassau County office of the New York Civil Liberties Union, which is working to support undocumented immigrants as they navigate the Trump administration’s deportation push.

NCC faculty to sue over promotion delays

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The faculty union at Nassau Community College announced on May 14 that it would take legal action against the college administration for refusing to submit faculty tenure and promotion recommendations to the board of trustees, a move the union claims violates the current collective bargaining agreement.

At a news conference in the County Legislature building in Mineola, Acting NCC Federation of Teachers President David Stern accused the college’s leadership of disregarding established rules and breaching contractual obligations.

“NCC thinks the rules no longer apply to them,” Stern said. “They think they can say one thing and do another. That ends now.”

More than 15 faculty members were recommended for tenure and promotion by committees composed of faculty and administrators in February and March. Stern said the union’s legal counsel had sent a letter to the college administration earlier that day, demanding that the college follow through on the recommendations made by those committees. He called the administration’s failure to advance the recommendations to the board “unprecedented.”

“The issue is simple,” Stern said. “A committee of faculty, including an administrator, recommended tenure and promotions to a number of hardworking, dedicated professors who have labored here for years. NCC not only violated the terms of our contract, it demonstrates an arrogance and disrespect that we have long endured.”

Stern singled out Chief Administrative Officer Maria Conzatti, accusing her of refusing to meet with union representatives or bring the recommendations to

the board of trustees.

“The arrogance begins with Maria Conzatti … who has refused to meet with us, let alone address the concerns in good faith,” Stern said. “She has refused to present these committee recommendations to the board of trustees.”

In response, Jerry Kornbluth, vice president of community and governmental relations at NCC, defended the administration’s stance. He told the Herald in a previous interview that promotions, sabbaticals, and tenure decisions “don’t take effect until the fall of 2025 —

under the new contract,” adding that discussions about the next agreement must begin before such actions can move forward.

In an interview on Friday, Kornbluth reiterated those comments, explaining that Conzatti had presented recommendations for sabbaticals at a board of trustees meeting the previous day. He added that promotions and tenure recommendations would be addressed in June.

Kornbluth explained that the delay in promotions and tenure appointments is due to an ongoing investigation into “potential irregularities on the promotion process,” but he did not elaborate.

But Stern argued that the current contract remains in effect until Aug. 31, and that the administration is obligated to act on recommendations that have already been vetted through the formal committee process.

“That’s absolutely incorrect,” Kornbluth said of Stern’s argument. “This has nothing to do with the contract. This is all about trying to make Maria Conzatti and the administration look bad.”

Suzanne Kaebnick, an English professor and the union secretary, said the administration’s inaction directly affects students. “The cuts, and their refusal to forward the recommendations for tenure and promotion, hurt our students,” Kaebnick said. “In the nursing department, we have classes that have been unstaffed all semester.”

She added, “To not support our full-time faculty … is to say that we’re not invested in this college. That’s not fair to Nassau.”

“Faculty members are hired either temporary or probationary,” Kornbluth said. “They’re fully aware of it, and it’s part of the collective bargaining agreement. After Academic Affairs evaluates the courses and enrollment, there is a good possibility that someone who is terminated on this contract could be re-upped in the fall.”

Hernesto Galdamez/Herald

David Stern, acting president of the Nassau Community College Federation of Teachers, spoke at a news conference in Mineola on May 14, announcing legal action against the college.

All of those honored during the Founders Day celebration.

Celebrating PTAs around East Meadow

The East Meadow Parent Teacher Association Council and PTAs from the East Meadow school district community celebrated Founders Day last month. Founders Day commemorates the founding of the PTA and recognizes those who make the PTA and its activities possible.

The affair took place at Leonard’s Palazzo in Great Neck.

Representatives of each of East Meadow’s schools attended the event, along with the district’s central administration. Those who were honored were brought up to the podium to light a candle to signify all they do for the children in each school community, and in East Meadow and Salisbury in general.

The PTA Council recognizes the good work of all of the school’s PTA’s throughout the years, knowing the focus is always on the community’s children.

Joanna Yee/Herald photos

Jenn Pevsner, Jill Mallilo, Heather Parker at the celebrations last month.

The W.T. Clarke Chorale, directed by Kaitlin Melker, were among the evening’s performers.

The East Meadow Parent Teacher Association Council and various PTAs from the East Meadow School District celebrated the annual Founders Day. Above, Liz Oliva-Kong, Donna Goldstein, Olga Kalogiannis, Denyse Kofod, Sue Bouen, on the Founders Day committee.

Anna Kofod, 17, Emily Kong, 17, and Ashley Kong, 13, attended the festivities.

Experts: Trump cuts threaten drinking water

Loca leaders agree that federal delays of toxic chemical bans put Long Island communities at risk

By STACY DRIKS sdriks@liherald.com

Nassau County’s water is under threat — and local leaders are sounding the alarm.

Last Friday, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages joined County Legislators Olena Nicks and Scott Davis at the Hempstead Public Library, where they stood with environmental and health leaders to denounce recent environmental rollbacks by the Trump administration.

At the heart of the concern is trichloroethylene, or TCE, a toxic chemical once widely used as an industrial solvent. It is known to seep from factories and landfills into the groundwater — the very source of Long Island’s drinking supply. The state warns that TCE, despite its sweet, fruity odor, is a potent carcinogen.

“The decisions being made aren’t based on science — they’re made to protect special interests and polluters,” Solages said, referring to delays on the part of the Environmental Protection Agency in banning harmful chemicals, and her widely shared social media post on the deregulation of a group of chemicals known as PFAS.

The administration’s proposal would slash the EPA’s budget from $9.1 billion to $4.2 billion, a cut of more than 50 percent.

Solages, a lifelong Long Islander, pointed out the Island’s growing vul-

nerability to climate change: rising seas, saltwater intrusion and increasingly toxic groundwater. But she also warned of a different kind of crisis — one she called a “man-made disaster” brought on by federal inaction.

Joseph Stallone, campaign manager of the New York League of Conservation Voters, agreed. “The EPA used to be a bipartisan watchdog,” he said. “We need Congress to fully fund the EPA and reject these dangerous rollbacks.”

Jessica Varghese, a registered nurse with over 23 years of experience and an associate professor at the New York Institute of Technology, drove the message home. “Long Island has the most contaminated water in New York,” he said simply.

Hempstead wells have tested positive for one of the four dioxanes that are known to cause cancer, along with traces of “forever chemicals” — a term that applies in almost a literal sense, because they contain strong bonds that persist for decades. Varghese cited serious health risks including kidney damage, liver disease, cancer and Parkinson’s disease.

“Long Island deserves better,” she said. “The Trump administration’s sweeping regulatory rollbacks pose a serious threat to public health.”

Solages concluded with a warning: “This isn’t about America’s health,” she said. “It’s about profit. And we won’t be silent.”

Tim Baker/Herald Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis, far left, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, Legislator Olena Nicks, Joseph Stallone and Jessica Varghese at Hempstead Public Library, where they spoke about environmental rollbacks.

STEPPING OUT

Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force

Airmen and women execute daring maneuvers in a thrilling display of the might of the Air Force’s premier fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Gaze up at the sky

Photo courtesy Chris Thomas/Warbird Thunder

Warbird Thunder’s World War II-era planes blast overhead on the wings of history.

High-flying stunts always amaze at Jones Beach air show

By Karen Bloom

The unofficial start of summer is here — and it’s coming in with a roar. Memorial Day weekend has arrived, bringing with it all the familiar traditions we love: heartfelt ceremonies, parades, sizzling barbecues, and, of course, that muchanticipated pilgrimage to Jones Beach for the thrill of the FourLeaf Air Show. Set against the sparkling Atlantic, this high-flying spectacle returns Saturday and Sunday, with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds once again leading the charge in a breathtaking display of speed, precision and patriotism. Showtime begins at 10 a.m. — don’t forget your sunscreen and camera.

The distinguished squadron, back for their 10th headlining appearance, is joined by other elite military pilots. This year’s spectacle includes the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, United States Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II, United States Navy F-35C Demo Team, United State Navy Rhino Demo Team, United States Navy EA-18G Growler Demo Team, North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), 106th Rescue Wing NY Air National Guard, also the 105th Airlift Wing unit of the New York Air National Guard.

This show — with its new name as a result of the rebranding of sponsor Bethpage Federal Credit Union as FourLeaf — is an especially patriotic salute to the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army (which got its start as the Continental Army), the Navy and Marines, along with the 110th anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard. A tribute also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

“We are thrilled to welcome the United States Air Force Thunderbirds as this year’s headliners and look forward to an amazing show by all our performers,” says George Gorman, regional director, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historical Preservation. “Every year more and more people come to our show. It has become a great tradition for Long Island to honor our military and veterans and kick off the summer at Jones Beach.”

With the anticipated cooperation of the weather, the military and civilian pilots soar — and boom — overhead.

• May 24-25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

• $10 vehicle use fee

• Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh

• For up-to-date information, visit fourleafairshow.com.

The boardwalk also gets in on the action as service branches are on hand to provide visitors with opportunities to interact, including virtual reality simulations and fitness challenges. Everyone will want to check out the booths lining the boardwalk as well, to pick up a souvenir or a snack.

The Thunderbirds, “America’s Ambassadors in Blue,” demonstrate the extraordinary capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon — the Air Force’s multi-role fighter jet. The elite military pilots proudly showcase the capabilities of highly versatile, 19,700-pound aircraft, which can travel at speeds up to 1,500 mph. The supersonic aircraft is known for its agility, speed and ability to perform various roles, including air superiority, air-to-ground combat and intercepting enemy aircraft.

Grace meets power in this mix of six F-16 Falcons demonstrating formation flying and solo routines. Flying only a few feet apart from wingtip to wingtip, the crowd gets a glimpse of the superb skills and capabilities that all fighter pilots must possess as they push the limits of their aircraft.

The civilian teams always elicite ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ as well. Performers include the American Airpower Museum Warbirds; Aarron Deliu, current reigning Air Masters Cup Series champion and current Sky Grand Prix Champion; Warbird Thunder, featuring the North American SNJ Texan, a former World War II Navy advanced training aircraft; also returning are the Farmingdale State College Flying Rams and Long Island’s own David Windmiller.

Warbird Thunder may be familiar to those who watched when the GEICO Skytypers used to grace the sky over Jones Beach. Warbird’s Lead Pilot Chris “CT” Thomas, with his partner, Wingman Mike “Buick” Eberhardt, was with the Skytypers team for many years before heading out on their own. Their meticulously restored World War II-era SNJ planes were used as an advanced trainer by the U.S. Navy and Marines to train “The Greatest Generation” during World War II and the Korean War.

“We’re flying a piece of history,” Thomas proudly explains.“They’ve got quite a military heritage.”

Warbird Thunder’s 12-minute performance is highlighted by what Thomas describes as “big smoke and big noise.” From as low as 100 feet near the surface to 2,000 feet in the air, his two-plane formation will be looping and rolling. You’ll watch formation loops, aileron rolls, barrel rolls, and Cuban Eights; the planes also separate bringing more excitement with opposing aerobatics before rejoining for the final maneuvers in their fast-paced segment.

“These are big planes with a big physical presence,” he says. “It’s always an exciting show.”

Be sure to listen for that signature “bark” — actually the tips of the propeller reaching the speed of sound.

Jon Lovitz

Comedy legend Jon Lovitz brings his signature wit and unforgettable characters to the stage for a night of nonstop laughs. Best known for his Emmy-nominated run on SNL and roles in hit films like “A League of Their Own” and “The Wedding Singer,” Lovitz has been a comedy staple for over 30 years. He got his start in high school productions. After pursuing acting studies, he decided to concentrate solely on comedy, taking classes then accepted into the famed improv group The Groundlings’s main company. In March 1985 The Groundlings appeared on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” where Jon premiered his character “Tommy Flanagan of Pathological Liars Anonymous.” SNL and numerous offers came along; Jon was on his way, working nonstop since. Along with his comedy, he’s well known for his distinctive voice that’s served him well in his varied TV and film career. Jon’s humor is unique, attributable to his quirky personality — and he always entertains.

Saturday, May 24, 7 p.m. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.

Unlock the secrets of Westbury House

For years, visitors to Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House have wandered its elegant first floor, admiring the grandeur of the Gilded Age. Many have paused at a certain corridor door, wondering what lay beyond. Now, that mystery is unveiled. Join a 60-minute guided tour, “Secrets of the Service Wing,” and step into the hidden world that powered the Phipps family’s opulent lifestyle. This unique experience peels back the curtain on the tireless work and logistics that kept this grand home running smoothly. Explore the heart of domestic operations — from the orderly butler’s pantry and the silver cleaning room, down the 17 steps to the bustling kitchen, scullery and wine storage room. Space is limited; don’t miss your chance to step through the door and into history.

Sunday, May 25, 3-4 p.m. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. Tickets and information available at oldwestburygardens.org or (516) 333-0048.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

MAY

Hug a happy tree

K&A Tree Service offers free tree inspections throughout Long Island. Tree professionals will visit in person to inspect tree and provide free advice to help treat your tree right and make it happy.

•Time: Ongoing

•Contact: (516) 208-3131

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.

•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.

•Time: Ongoing

•Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org

MAY

24

Long Island Children’s Museum celebrates National Maritime Day by inviting families to create their own floating boats. Put your boat to the test in the museum’s water tub to see if it sinks or floats! This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: noon-2 p.m.

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

MAY

25

Fleet Week Stop by Eisenhower Park on Memorial Day Weekend for an epic time, featuring closeup encounters with military vehicles and a meet-andgreet with service members.

•Where: Eisenhower Park Field 2 and 5

•Time: 10-2 p.m.,with a parade at 1:30 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 572-0201

MAY 26

Memorial Day parade

East Meadow hosts its annual Memorial Day parade. Welcome

JUNE

Asi Wind’s ‘More Than Magic’

After his sold-out run Off-Broadway, “Inner Circle,” and his London’s West End six-month long run, “Incredibly Human,” Asi Wind returns to the U.S. with a new show, featuring his greatest magic hits. Those familiar with Wind’s performances know to expect jaw-dropping feats of magic, inexplicable mind-reading and an utterly captivating night out. Wind was crowned the 2022 Magician of the Year by the Academy of Magical Arts, an award previously given to David Copperfield and Penn & Teller. Moreover, his appearance on Penn & Teller: Fool Us has become one of the most viral performances in the show’s history, with over 16 million views on YouTube. Wind’s recent Off-Broadway show, Inner Circle, was a critically acclaimed, sold-out success, described as “Gobsmacking. Mystifying. Spectacular.” (The Wall Street Journal). Asi now presents his favorite magic from his dazzling lifelong repertoire. His performances are not just mind-blowing; they inspire us to recognize the magic that lies within each of us. This visually stunning performance showcases Asi’s artistic talents while exploring the human spirit. Wind constantly blurs the line between what’s possible and impossible. It’s a theatrical experience that defies expectations and will leave you marveling at human creativity and connection. Wind believes that true magic can only happen if you bring people together and make them feel like they are a part of the show. Asi’s goal is not deceive people but to make them care and experience and magic. “More Than Magic” is a profound reminder that we all possess some magic within us. Tickets are $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50.

the unofficial start to summer!

•Where: East Meadow Avenue, near Prospect Avenue

•Time: 8 a.m.-noon

•Contact: EastMeadowChamber.com

Tech Help

East Meadow Public Library offers a technology assistance program, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

•Where: 1886 Front Street, East Meadow

•Time: 2-4 p.m.

•Contact: EastMeadow.info

‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’

The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: Also May 28-29, times vary

•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

MAY

Breastfeeding Support Group

Mercy Hospital offers a peer-to-peer breastfeeding support group facilitated by a certified counselor. Open to new moms with babies from newborn to 1 year. Registration required.

•Where: St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre

•Time: Ongoing Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

•Contact: Call Gabriella Gennaro at (516) 705-2434 shorturl.at/2FhFO

Little Learners Art Lab

Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week families will explore Crystallized Creations. Experiment to see what happens when participants add salt to their works of art. $4 with museum admission.

Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op. 97 “Archduke”, Jean-Baptiste Loeillet de Gant’s Trio Sonata in B minor, Grieg’s Violin Sonata No. 3 in C minor, Op. 45, and Ravel’s Cinq Mélodies Populaires Grecques. Beethoven’s iconic Archduke Trio, composed in 1811 and dedicated to his friend and patron Archduke Rudolf of Austria, remains a cornerstone of the piano trio repertoire and is performed worldwide. This marks the first time Poetica Musica performs this celebrated trio at Old Westbury Gardens. With pre-concert talk at 7:30 p.m. and a reception following the performance. $30, general admission, $25 members, seniors (62+) and students.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury

•Time: 8-10:30 p.m.

•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or (516) 333-0048

JUNE

1

•Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Art Explorations

MAY

Converse, collaborate and create at Nassau County Museum of Art. Kids and their adult partners can talk about and make art together. Enjoy reading and play in the Reading Room, and contribute to The Lobby Project, a collaborative art installation. Registration required.

•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor

• Time: noon-3 p.m.

•Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org

Contrast In Colors

Visit Old Westbury Gardens for an evening of rich harmonies and expressive tones when Poetica Musica presents a captivating program of chamber music and vocal works. The program includes music by Beethoven, Grieg, Loeillet and Ravel, performed cellist Eugene Moye, violinist Erik Wyrick, pianist Yasmin Alami, and mezzosoprano Eleanor Valkenburg. Highlights include Beethoven’s

Storybook Stroll

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure. Stroll the gardens and listen Gabriel Alborozo’s modern tale ”Let’s Paint.” Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury.

•Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

•Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

JUNE

Hope Day

Participate in the free community event at Bowling Green Elementary School. With a Kids Zone, music, grocery giveaways and more.

7

•Where: 2340 Steward Ave., Westbury

•Time: Noon •Contact: hopenetwork.org

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.

Several projects and updates were discussed during a recent meeting of the Council of east meadow Community organizations at the east meadow public Library. Joe parisi, president of CemCo, discussed upgrades planned for the bird sanctuary in east meadow that CemCo maintains.

Bird sanctuary receives fence, additional upgrades

a great job and taking a proactive approach. But three issues continue to affect the area, including thefts from vehicles, mainly because people leave cars unlocked outside of their homes or running outside of stores.

“Most of the vehicle thefts that we see aren’t break-ins,” Nikiel said. “We have people that go through the neighborhoods (and wait for people to leave their cars unlocked). They’re going to go in there and take whatever they can.”

Nikiel cautioned residents to keep belongings out of sight in their vehicles. He also addressed the ongoing threat of scams, particularly those that target seniors. Nikiel encouraged those who attended the meeting to speak with older relatives and neighbors about common scams, such as gift card fraud and schemes in which callers falsely claim a loved one has been arrested and need bail money wired to them immediately.

As for past projects that CEMCO has worked on, Parisi said a new fence has finally been installed at the organization’s bird sanctuary — an area of untouched land behind Speno Park in East Meadow.

“We’ve had, over the last five years, a lot of trespassing happening,” he said. “This organization has worked closely in conjunction with (Legislator) Tom McKevitt’s office, and the new fence has been installed there. It was a costly expense, I would say, but it’s helping to at least cut down on some of the vandalism. The concern has been, not only vandalism and trespassing, but since there’s a large body of water, we wanted to make sure that it’s not easy for younger kids to get in there and have some kind of serious accident.”

In addition, owl boxes, designed nesting structures for owls, will be purchased and installed in the sanctuary, thanks to available grant money. CEMCO has enjoyed a close partnership with PSEG, a power and energy compa-

ny on Long Island, over the last few years and applied for a few communitybased grants, which have allowed the organization to work on some projects in East Meadow.

“When the foliage comes in, we’re going to organize a little project to go in there and have these boxes installed,” he said. “It definitely helps the wildlife, and there is a lot. You can’t believe how much is there, so we do our best to help nature out and to keep the sanctuary as clean as possible.”

Hempstead Town Councilman Dennis Dunne, who represents East Meadow, shared upcoming projects with meeting attendees, including upgrades that are headed to some local ballparks. He also touched upon the state of roadways in East Meadow and Salisbury, adding that the town is working to repave 100 miles of roads this year, and about one-third of those repairs will be completed in Dunne’s district.

The town’s highway department inspects the roads and finds that wear and tear usually occurs during the wintertime. The councilman said if residents know of a particularly bad section of road that they would like to be surveyed, or any other concerns in the town, they could call his district office at (516) 812-3180.

In reference to a shopping center on Hempstead Turnpike, near the intersection of East Meadow Avenue and Park Boulevard, major changes are on the horizon, thanks to a project by Regency Development. The parking lots and storefronts are being redeveloped, as is the sidewalk that surrounds the lots — which has long been in need of an upgrade, Parisi said.

“If anybody takes a look at those sidewalks, they are terrible, and the landscaping leaves a lot to be desired,” he explained. “We learned about this project, and it’s been in the works for at least a year-and-a-half, and it’s going to move forward.”

Jordan Vallone/Herald

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE ACQUISITION CORP.

2006-WMC1 ASSET

BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES

2006-WMC1, -againstPUBLIC

ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 20, 2025, wherein U.S. BANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE ACQUISITION CORP.

2006-WMC1 ASSET

BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES

2006-WMC1 is the Plaintiff and PUBLIC

ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 11, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 162 STATE ST, WESTBURY, NY 11590; and the following tax map identification: 11-033-0051.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF NORTH HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 005626/2013.

Stanley P. Amelkin, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask

wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 153380

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. JEAN CLAUDE MASSON A/K/A JEAN CLAUD MASSON A/K/A JEANCLAUDE MASSON, et al, Defts. Index #608029/2021. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 18, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 10, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 11, Block 97, Lot 36-37. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. The foreclosure sale will be held, “rain or shine.” BETH CHAMOW, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021. #102281 153360

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU CITIBANK, N.A. AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2019-RPL3, Plaintiff AGAINST CARINE BONHOMME, ELIZABETH JEANPIERRE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 24, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 12, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 2114 Prospect Avenue, East Meadow, NY 11554. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at East Meadow, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 50 Block: 402 Lot: 17. Approximate amount

of judgment $586,634.42 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #601703/2024. Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14 221 22-001564 85443 153487

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

WALL STREET MORTGAGE BANKERS LTD DBA POWER EXPRESS, Plaintiffagainst - ROODY CASSEUS, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on January 23, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 17th day of June, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at East Meadow, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 642 Richmond Road, East Meadow, NY 11554.

(Section: 50, Block: 570, Lot: 33, Lot Group: 33,73)

Approximate amount of lien $608,805.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 616570/2018. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516-742-1212

CASSEUS-75399

Dated: April 21, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and

COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 153477

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

LOCAL LAW NO. 30-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held May 13, 2025 by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 30-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 30-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: May 13, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 153627

Firefighters take part in marathon

Running shoes replaced fire boots on May 4, as six dedicated members of the East Meadow Fire Department joined thousands of participants at the Long Island Marathon weekend in Eisenhower Park. Captain Robert Schmidt of Engine Company 3, Ex-Captain Daniel Corr of Hook & Ladder Company 1, Firefighter Darrah Reilly of Hook & Ladder 1, Third Assistant Chief John O’Brien Jr., Lieutenant Benny Doyle of Engine Company 1, and Captain Joseph Krilov of Hook & Ladder 1.

Public Notices

Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations. Dated: May 13, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 153628

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

LOCAL LAW NO. 31-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held May 13, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 31-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 31-2025, amending

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law

Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 05/28/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.

264/25. EAST MEADOW - East Meadow Plaza Regency, LLC, Install one double-faced, illuminated, pylon sign, overall size 428 sq. ft. (214 sq. ft. per face); overall height 30’; clearance 4’8” from grade., S/E cor. Hempstead Tpke. & East Meadow Ave., a/k/a 1900 Hempstead Tpke. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in East Meadow within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the

foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 153624

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff - againstWILLIAM MONGE AKA WILLIAM R. MONGE, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 8, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 25th day of June, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Levittown, near Hicksville, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Premises known as 47 Squirrel Lane, Levittown, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11756. (SBL#: 45-228-14)

Approximate amount of lien $379,179.73 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 612397/2022. Jane P. Shrenkel, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: April 16, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 153604

Courtesy East Meadow Fire Department

CLASSIFIED

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460

E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com

E-mail Finds Under $100 to:

Help Wanted

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour

Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K

To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT

DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT.

A painter says he can do more than paint

Luxury Coastal Living

Q. We started doing work to our home and are just finishing, and the painter suggested that a wall could be taken down to open up the rooms. He says he can do this himself because it’s not a support wall. We’ve looked into it, thinking about an island in the kitchen and matching the floor or replacing it. The painter said we might need an architect, but since the work is interior, it won’t need a permit. We’re wondering what we should do, because we know you’ll say we need a permit, but the painter says we can get one after the work is done, and he can start right away so he can finish the work and avoid interruptions. Do you think this is a good idea?

A. The permit, as a piece of paper or a process of reviewing the work, isn’t the point. As you read this, hundreds of projects around you are underway with no permits. Most of them will either never be found out or are of such small consequence that when an issue comes up, it will be ignored.

Usually, I only learn about problems when either a buyer or a lending bank wants something put on record. I receive frantic calls asking if plans can be made quickly and a permit obtained before the closing in a week. Anyone who tells you the permit process is quick is trying to sell you something.

But remember, the permit document isn’t really the important thing. The permit is a symbol representing a more important issue — safety. Safety not only includes your well-being against doing something dangerous; it also means preventing health risks and the potential of losing a large sum of money if something goes wrong.

Removing a non-structural wall is a little misleading. The wall may not be supporting anything, but it has weight that you want to replace with another load. In general, people rarely look at any kind of building as a system of puzzle pieces, all fitting together in a specific way.

As an example of what can happen, I once got a call from someone who had that wall removed and added an island. The wall load was removed from the beams below, which was a good thing because those beams were now carrying less of a load. Then an island was installed, a four-foot-wide model with a beautiful quartz countertop, a sink and a sixburner stove. The homeowner also wanted an open display for restaurant-sized canned peeled tomatoes, ready for use with one of their famous recipes. The island load was calculated after the finished flooring began to distort and come loose and sagged 4 inches, when I was called to figure out what was going wrong. The island weighed at least six times the load of the wall, and the beam below was buckling. The floor bounced and the wine glasses in a nearby cabinet clinked together every time someone walked by.

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com,

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opinions Making mental health a cornerstone of wellness

since 1949, May has been observed as Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to highlight the importance of prioritizing a core element of human wellness that is far too often overlooked in our society.

DEBRA mulÉ

Time and again, experiences throughout my career as a social worker and service as a Freeport PTA leader, school board member and elected official have demonstrated the critical importance of delivering mental health care resources, recognizing the barriers that discourage people from seeking help, and the many ways that mental health challenges present themselves in our society.

Cognizant of the damage it causes at all stages of life, I have fought to combat bullying, whether it rears its ugly head in a school building or in the furthest reaches of the internet. In 2019, I proudly worked with Legislator Arnold Drucker to co-author and pass a law that makes the nonconsensual and

lmalicious sharing of intimate images a criminal offense. Our legislation was parlayed into a statewide ban. Most recently, the bipartisan Take It Down Act tightened federal restrictions on this reprehensible act and took an important step toward addressing the growing scourge of AI deepfake incidents.

iI am continuing to work alongside Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton and my Democratic minority colleagues to demand that the Blakeman administration accelerate the delivery of more than $100 million in funds accrued through lawsuits against the manufacturers, retailers and distributors of addictive opioid drugs. These funds have languished in county bank accounts for years and need to get into the hands of the agencies providing rehabilitation, treatment, prevention and recovery resources on the front lines of this battle — one that frequently leads to mental health as a root cause. Moreover, I am supporting our partners in law enforcement, including Nassau Police Benevolent Association President Tommy Shevlin, in efforts to address the devastating officer suicide crisis. To date, seven officers in New

n 2022, nearly 60 million Americans were living with a mental health condition.

York state have died by suicide — three of them from Nassau County. I join PBA President Shevlin in supporting the Joseph Banish Mental Health Act — named for a state trooper who died by suicide — and how it would establish a confidential network of trained officers to aid their peers in addressing mental health challenges that they may confront throughout their law enforcement careers.

All of this leads to an unavoidable truth: Many of our friends and neighbors are fighting battles that we may know nothing about. The age-old advice is to “walk a mile in somebody else’s shoes” before casting judgment upon a person or a situation. Within the context of mental health, it has tremendous value and wisdom, especially when you consider the following data.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 23.1 percent of America’s adult population — 59.3 million people — were living with a mental health condition in 2022. Young adults ages 18 to 25 reported the highest prevalence of mental health conditions, at a rate of 36.2 percent. Of the 59.3 million overall Americans impacted, about half

— or around 30 million — received mental health treatment in the past year.

These statistics alone demonstrate the importance of doing our best to extend grace to our neighbors in all of our encounters, knowing that they may be enduring struggles that they are obscuring from the world’s view. Moreover, when there is an opportunity to reach out and provide somebody with help — whether by listening, offering direct assistance, or connecting a person with resources — we should do so to the best of our ability.

By normalizing conversations about mental health, each of us can do our part to chip away at the stigma associated with this issue. It is one of the biggest hurdles that prevents friends and loved ones from seeking care.

It is OK to not be OK — and when the time comes to seek help, it is imperative for all levels of government to combat the ongoing shortage of mental health care providers and take all necessary steps to ensure that resources are in place so we can start on the path to happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Debra Mulé, of Freeport, who represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District, is the Legislature’s alternate deputy minority leader.

Skip the gamble, wear the sunscreen

ike everyone else, I’ve welcomed the shift to warmer weather this month. The birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and more people are spending time outdoors. I don’t have to tell you why — just look up. The sun is back, high in the sky, and with it comes a timely reminder: Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but also one of the most preventable. It affects people of all skin tones and the most likely cause is overexposure to ultraviolet light, or more simply put, the sun. The main types of skin cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Melanoma, while less common, is the most aggressive, and often referred to as a “silent killer” due to its early metastatic spread.

My dad has battled skin cancer multiple times. He’s vigilant about checking his skin for unusual moles, freckles and sunspots, and late last year he noticed a new growth on his shoulder blade. A dermatologist quickly took a biopsy, and

the results confirmed melanoma. Surgery was scheduled to promptly remove the mole and a wide margin of surrounding skin, leaving a six-inch, crosssectional scar across his back. His medical team is confident that the cancer was caught in time and removed in totality.

As we head outside and soak up the sun, I can’t think of a better time to share my dad’s story. With his naturally fair skin, he’s especially cautious. He wears baseball caps to shield his face, opts for long-sleeved sun shirts designed to block harmful UV rays, and rarely skips sunscreen on any exposed skin — especially in warmer weather.

effective, a wave of online misinformation has fueled an “anti-sunscreen” movement — putting more people at risk just as we enter peak sun exposure season.

Y ou shouldn’t need persuading, but if you do, I’ll let you talk to my dad.

There’s growing misinformation about sunscreen, with one of the most persistent myths professing that the product — or more specifically, the chemicals in it — can cause cancer, too. This concern was amplified when certain sunscreens were recalled after they were found to contain benzene, a known carcinogen. While the contamination was a manufacturing issue and not an ingredient in sunscreen formulas, the damage was done. Despite repeated assurances from medical experts that sunscreen is overwhelmingly safe and

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month — a time when national and local organizations step up their efforts to educate the public about prevention. One such group is the Long Islandbased Colette Coyne Melanoma Awareness Campaign, named in memory of Colette, who died from the disease. Each year, the campaign partners with Nassau County, gathering at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building in early May to deliver a simple but vital message: The safest way to enjoy summer is to protect your skin. Despite the critics, there is no medical evidence that suggests sunscreen causes cancer. Evidence overwhelmingly informs the public that sun, and artificial forms of UV light such as tanning beds, are the most common culprits. Many different types of sunblock are available — including chemical sunscreens, which absorb into the skin, and physical blocker sunscreens, or “mineral sunscreens,” which act as a barrier on the skin’s surface.

I think it’s important that people make medical decisions they feel are best for them, and use products that they feel safest using. But the truth is if people consistently skip sun protection, they are two to three times more likely to develop skin cancer over their lifetime, compared with those who use sunscreen regularly. Opting to avoid using sunblock out of fear of the chemicals it contains is not only ignorant, but also dangerous.

I’m not a medical professional, just someone who’s watched my dad undergo a number of procedures to remove cancer. If you’re hesitant about chemical sunscreens, I get it — there are plenty of “cleaner” options out there. I use one myself. What matters most is using something, because doing nothing is the real risk.

Women get mammograms to detect breast cancer. Adults over 45 get colonoscopies to catch colon cancer early. So why skip one of the simplest, most accessible tools we have to prevent skin cancer before it starts?

There’s no need to gamble with your health when we have everything we need to make conscious decisions, ones that are far more likely to help you — rather than hurt you — in the long run.

Jordan Vallone is a senior editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? jvallone@liherald.com.

HERALD

Memorial Day: so much more than a day of rest

as the last Monday in May approaches, many Americans look forward to Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer — a three-day weekend filled with barbecues, beach trips, travel and clearance sales.

But while there’s nothing wrong with enjoying time with loved ones, we must not allow convenience and celebration to overshadow the solemn significance of the holiday. Memorial Day isn’t just a day off. It is a day of remembrance — a national moment of pause to honor the men and women of the United States military who gave their lives in service to our country.

Established in the aftermath of the Civil War, Memorial Day — originally known as Decoration Day — was born of collective mourning. Families and communities across a fractured nation placed flowers on soldiers’ graves, uniting in grief and reverence. The federal holiday was established in 1971. Over time, the holiday expanded to commemorate all American military personnel who have died in service. It is not to be confused with Veterans Day, which honors all who have served, living and deceased. Memorial Day is specifi-

cally for the fallen.

Yet in our modern era, its meaning often gets lost amid the grilling, the chilling and the discount ads. It’s easy to be swept up in the excitement of an extra day off or the first beach trip of the season. But convenience should not breed complacency. Memorial Day deserves more than a casual nod — it demands deliberate remembrance.

Why does that matter? Because freedom isn’t free, and it never has been. The rights we exercise daily — to speak, to vote, to gather, to live safely — were defended by those who never came home.

Behind every headstone in Arlington National Cemetery, and in others across the nation, lies a story of courage, sacrifice and love of country. Behind every folded flag handed to a grieving family is a reminder that someone paid the ultimate price.

To ignore that reality — to reduce Memorial Day to little more than a festive long weekend — is to forget a fundamental part of our national identity. In honoring the fallen, we not only show respect for their sacrifice, but we reinforce the values they died protecting: duty, service, unity, and democratic freedom.

So what can we do differently?

He was five lengths back, bumped and bruised, as he fought through a crowded pack in the Preakness Stakes, one of horse racing’s biggest events. But Journalism didn’t fold, even when he looked to be down and out. He found daylight in the final turn, charged down the stretch, and stormed past the leaders to win in spectacular fashion.

It was gritty. It was powerful. And it was symbolic.

Because while Journalism the horse crossed the finish line in triumph, journalism the profession is reeling — and falling further behind every day.

nities. Trusted reporters have vanished from towns and villages across the state. There’s no one left to sit through school board meetings, follow the money at town halls, or tell the human stories that hold communities together.

The decline isn’t distant. It’s here. It’s happening now. And yet there is still a clear lane for journalism organizations to triumph — if we fight for it.

Start small. Take part in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time on Monday, when Americans are encouraged to pause for one minute in silence. Visit a local veterans’ cemetery or memorial. Attend a parade or ceremony in your town. Talk to children and young people about why the day matters. Share a story of a fallen service member. Fly the American flag at half-staff.

Better yet, turn remembrance into action. Donate to an organization that supports Gold Star families or wounded veterans. Write to an elected official in support of improved services for military families. Volunteer for a group that helps transitioning service members reintegrate into civilian life. Service should not end at the battlefield, and gratitude should not last only one day. On Memorial Day, we’re not asked to stop living or celebrating. We are asked to remember why we can. We are asked to be present — not just at the picnic table, but in thought and in spirit, connecting with the sacrifices that afforded us this life of liberty.

Let this Memorial Day be more than an extended weekend. Let it be a day of purpose. A day of honor. A day to remember. people are that truth is if protection, likely lifeuse sunusing chemicals it also just underremove chemiplenuse using is the detect colo-

In New York, dozens of local newspapers have shuttered over the past year, even in some of the wealthiest commu-

Peter King goes way too easy on Elon Musk

To the Editor:

Last year, New York passed a first-inthe-nation tax credit to support truly local journalism. That policy, now in effect, offers a lifeline to communitybased newspapers. It was made possible by the Empire State Local News Coalition, a nonpartisan alliance of more than 200 local newspapers in New York — including the Herald — that are com-

letters

fund” last week, Peter King made excuses for Elon Musk’s inexcusable, reckless and immoral cuts: 1) “. . . to undo the damage, intentional or not . . . by Elon Musk’s chainsaw cuts”; and 2) “. . . Elon Musk’s misplaced cuts . . . probably made unknowingly . . .”

mitted to keeping local reporting alive.

Horse named Journalism showed what’s possible

To turn that legislative victory into a lasting comeback, the Empire State Local News Coalition needs support — from readers, businesses, neighbors and anyone who cares about truth, transparency and community camaraderie.

Because while four legs carried Journalism to victory, it’s the Fourth Estate that carries our democracy — and right now, it’s running out of steam.

If you appreciate the work we do covering your schools, government, family, friends and more, then please donate to the Empire State Local News Coalition at SaveNYLocalNews.com/support. With your help, journalism — the one that informs, uplifts and protects — can make a dramatic comeback, too.

DOGE’s very aware and deliberate actions negatively affecting the American people, totally backed up by this administration and Project 2025.

I will never understand why a spade can’t be called a spade when it comes to Donald Trump. As I recall from Mr. King’s columns, he was a good Catholic Brooklyn kid. Well, so received past demonstrate to all of they may are Moreopportunity to with offering perdo so about our associthe bigand when the imperato commental necresources path fulfilling represents Disdepu-

Not once, but twice, in his column “We must restore Musk’s cuts of the 9/11 health

A reality check, and some honesty, please, about the cruel and harmful effects of

opinions

GOP cuts to Medicaid will impact all of Long Island

House republicans advanced their plan last week to cut $715 billion in Medicaid funding over the next decade. Medicaid provides essential medical services to millions of children, seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans across our country, including 170,000 of my constituents in new york’s 4th Congressional District. These reductions will surely hurt recipients, but it is important to note that the impact of this budget cutback will stretch far beyond just these groups.

The warnings are already plentiful, and dire. These sweeping cuts have prompted alarm from health policy

experts, economists and medical groups, such as the american Hospital association, who all indicated that republicans’ proposed changes to Medicaid will touch all new yorkers, including those with private insurance. all americans can expect increased costs for private payers and reduced services at hospitals and other health care providers. It is critical that long Islanders understand the impact this legislation could have on all our families, friends and neighbors.

the sweeping cuts have prompted alarm from health policy experts and economists.

To ensure that constituents understand some of the impacts of the GoP budget being advanced in Congress, I hosted a budget briefing with my nassau County colleague, Congressman Tom suozzi. The briefing included factual testimony from nonpartisan presenters including northwell Health Ceo Michael

Mr. Dowling made clear that a sudden spike in uninsured patients resulting from Medicaid cuts is likely to force hospitals, clinics, and other health facilities to cut back services, reduce medical staff or even close their doors. When hospitals and other health providers cut back their services or close, it affects all of us, regardless of our health care coverage.

In fact, policy experts at the John Hopkins University of Public Health have forecast that premiums will rise for all americans as hospitals are forced to pass the cost of keeping their doors open to consumers.

I have spoken with a number of other long Island health providers, including stony Brook Medicine and the Healthcare association of new york,

Letters

was I, and I am thankful every day that I never lost the strength to call out nonsense when needed, no matter who is involved.

JosIe MarIno Lynbrook

The government, as is, won’t restore Musk’s cuts

To the editor:

Peter King’s demand that “this insanity must end” is too narrow, and made of the wrong people. “We” cannot “restore” anything until the elections next year.

Those who can have bigger bills to fry. “We” empowered MaGa to cut undefined waste, fraud and abuse,

which is what they did, and put it all into their current budget. Mr. King’s complaint about the 9/11 fund’s being “seriously threatened” by “misplaced cuts” applies to all items in that bill, and the only way to restore anything begins with dismantling that ugly construction. Fortunately, as of today, that seems possible if 2026 restores sanity to our federal government.

BrIan Kelly Rockville Centre

Time to address decadesold immigration problem

To the editor: I take issue with Murad awahdeh

and Melanie Creps’s opinion piece in the May 8-14 issue, “Cooperating with ICe will not make us safer.” as a son of a legal immigrant, I counted at least 10 mentions of the word “immigrant,” but without the word “illegal” preceding it. Was this an attempt to slant the piece in one direction?

In all my years, I have never seen an outreach toward our own homeless, veterans, mentally ill and addicted like I saw toward people who were allowed to enter our country through the open borders of the previous administration.

I would like nothing more than to see Congress come up with a bipartisan package to make legal immigration more enticing and vetted. What we have now is not only a strain on local budgets, but also the exploitation of these

who also underscored how these cuts would raise health care costs for all patients in our region. not only will new yorkers’ health care costs balloon, but the proposed Medicaid cuts are also likely to increase our tax burden. a brief from the nonpartisan health policy organization KFF concluded that these cuts will cause massive state budget shortfalls, prompting tax increases while downsizing funding to education, infrastructure and other local priorities. long Islanders already pay some of the highest taxes in the country. We cannot afford another tax increase. as your congresswoman, I am committed to fighting against these dangerous attempts to attack long Islanders’ health care. We must work to protect and strengthen access to health care, not make it more expensive and less accessible.

Laura A. Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

people working for substandard wages and the subsequent strain on social services. allowing self-deportation with the opportunity to come back legally would be the best approach for everybody. With all these companies willing to invest in plants to keep jobs here, and the present shortage of people in the trades, there will be more than enough jobs to be filled, with opportunities for american citizens first, and then legalized immigrants to follow. It would be a win-win for everybody, and also for the Trump administration, by finally addressing a decades-old problem that has never been dealt with properly.

Framework by Tim Baker At Long Island’s largest car

Tony GIaMeTTa Oceanside

Dowling.

LaUra a. GiLLen

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