Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 02-13-2025

Franklin square/elmont

DEADLINE MARCH 3RD

Joshua Latiff was given a sticker with his winning patch design, which combined the Islanders’ logo with the flag of Guyana, during a pre-game celebration at Belmont Park Village.

Islanders host patch contest for students

By RENEE DeloRENZo rdelorenzo@liherald.com

The New York Islanders partnered with UBS Arena and Belmont Park Village to host their fifth annual Cultural Inspiration Patch Program Design Contest in November. Fifth-graders from the Elmont, Hempstead and Uniondale school districts submitted their artwork, inspired by their cultural heritage, competing in a pool of over 400 students.

The 14 winners of the contest, and their families, were given tickets to the Feb. 4 Islanders

ContInued on PaGe 16

Aafia Ahmed named a 2025 Regeneron Scholar

By RENEE DeloRENZo rdelorenzo@liherald.com

Elmont Memorial High

School senior Aafia Ahmed has always loved science. As a firstgeneration immigrant from Pakistan, and among the only members of her family to enter the science field, her family has supported long nights of research and regular commutes to her internship at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. In January, after spending countless hours of the past two years conducting doctorate-level research in the college’s lab, Aafia was named a 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search

Beginning in eighth grade, Aafia recalled, she joined the science research program at her school and began learning how to conduct scientific research and experiments. And, she said, she was encouraged to make decisions on what she wanted to study.

Michelle Flannory, who is an Elmont science research coordinator and teaches the science research program at the high school, said when students enter their freshman year of high school, they are then enrolled in a curriculum that prepares them to conduct projects specifically for submission

to the Regeneron competition. Flannory said Aafia had to do a lot of her research virtually at first because she entered high school during the pandemic. But, she said, Aafia rose to the challenge.

She soon began research on schizophrenia during her freshman year, Aafia said, studying the neurological components of the illness.

In 2023, she applied, and was accepted, to the Einstein-Montefiore Summer High School Research Program, where she pivoted to a new science research project beginning her junior year. She was matched with a mentor from the college,

Dr. Beatriz Villahoz, who began advising her on science research.

When Aafia began the fiveweek internship which began in July and ended in August she commuted to the lab five days a week, staying for six to seven hours a day. The first two weeks were intensive training, she said, where she practiced

how to study cell cultures and use pipettes.

After all the training, it was time for her to start her own project. She said the toughest part was finding something in which she was genuinely interested.

Villahoz, who worked as a staff scientist at the college for

Courtesy Belmont Park Village

Scholar.

Aafia recognized for her science research

10 years, said she eventually told Aafia about a project they were conducting on methylmercury toxicity. This type of toxicity is caused by consumption of fish or exposure to environmental factors, such as volcanic activity.

Once Aafia decided to pursue the project, she hit the ground running.

On an average day, Aafia said, she would spend at least 43 minutes conducting her research and experiments during class, which is part of the school’s science research curriculum. However, she often worked on research after school, as well.

Aafia said she conducted six months of experimentation, along with months of data analysis. During this time, she stayed in contact with Villahoz, who was available to answer questions.

Villahoz said from the moment Aafia walked through the college’s door in 2023, she steadily increased her time and dedication to the project. She said Aafia was helpful and attentive, asking questions and taking the time to listen. “She showed that she was having fun,” she said. “She was dedicated. She worked hard.”

The intention of the research, Aafia said, was to inform manufacturers of therapeutics to target specific cell pathways to treat methylmercury toxicity.

By the end of her data analysis, Aafia prepared a paper detailing findings from her research and experimentation. And, Flannory added, Aafia’s research is currently being peer reviewed to be published in a scientific journal.

In November of her senior year, Aafia was ready to submit her materials for Regeneron. She said Flannory assisted her search in finding other conferences to

present her research, as well.

She was eventually accepted into Bio Conference 2024, which is sponsored through The American Society for Cell Biology, and presented her research in San Diego to professional biologists in December.

In January, the Regeneron Scholars were

announced. Only 300 students nationwide would be named as semifinalists, and Aafia said tensions were high.

She was anxiously waiting to hear the results. Finally, when her teacher informed her she was a semifinalist, she was in shock.

“It definitely didn’t feel real,” she said. “I had to actually see my name on the screen to actually realize that I got Regeneron Scholar. I still cannot believe it.”

Everything Aafia did that led up to this moment the long hours at the lab, the months of research and experimentation had finally paid off.

She was awarded $2,000, with an additional $2,000 awarded to the school, and was honored at the school district’s January board meeting for her accomplishments.

“In the way that she works,” Villahoz said, “the ideas, the motivation, and to be a collaborative person with other members in the lab I think, if she wants, she can be very successful.”

Flannory said Aafia has always pursued work at an extremely high level and has grown a lot since the beginning of the program.

“She’s already a little scientist,” she said. “She’s basically a PhD student.”

Her biggest strength, Aafia said, is keeping an open mind and opening herself up to whatever opportunities are presented to her. If she closed herself off to different aspects of science research, she said, she wouldn’t have accomplished half of what she did.

“I am super proud of myself,” she said. “I didn’t think any of this would happen.”

Aafia will be attending the University of Pennsylvania this fall on a full scholarship, and she hopes to get into the pre-med program.

Incredibly Great Rates & Personalized Service!

Courtesy Sewanhaka High School District after two years of scientific research and experimentation, aafia ahmed’s award-winning project on methylmercury toxicity was recognized in the 2025 regeneron Science talent Search.

The cultural impact of Black comedians

Sal St. George explains why we can thank Black comedians for much of today’s comedy culture

By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com

The Elmont Memorial Library added a bit of humor to their Black History Month programming, hosting a lecture about Black comedians that had audience members cracking up. “Groundbreaking Black Comedians,” presented by lecturer and historian Sal St. George, highlighted some of the industry’s top leading Black comics, such as Red Foxx, Dick Gregory, Flip Wilson, Nipsey Russell, Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy.

If it weren’t for these people, the comics we are enjoying today would not even exist. They pushed the doors open.

A group of about 50 guests attended the Feb. 5 lecture and gathered in one of the library’s meeting rooms at 1 p.m. for the hour-long presentation. St. George provided a PowerPoint slideshow with photos, videos and quick facts about each comic, emphasizing the influence these industry leaders have had on our comedy culture today.

SaL St. GEORGE lecturer and historian

“If it weren’t for these people, the comics we are enjoying today would not even exist,” St. George said. “They pushed the doors open.”

Piece by piece, he continued, these comedians broke down barriers in the entertainment industry and paved the way for Black voices to be heard and appreciated. These comedians transformed the racism and prejudice they experienced it into a punch line, he said, often making a point while making audiences laugh.

St. George said many of these comics were well known in the Black community, but broke into mainstream American culture for their iconic performances on television and in movies.

For example, Eddie Murphy’s big break into the entertainment industry was after his first TV appearance on the Johnny Carson show in 1981. He was already a well-seasoned performer, St. George said, but getting on a show that broadcast his routine across the nation introduced him to a much larger audience.

As for Dick Gregory, whose comedy career often overlapped with the civil rights movement in the 1960s, his popularity as an entertainer provided a platform for him to advocate for racial equality. As St. George pointed out during the lecture, the intersection of Gregory’s comedy and political activism resulted in his reputation as the “thinking man’s comedian.”

Claudestine Gourdet, 83, attended the lecture and said she appreciated the recognition of Black comics for their work in challenging cultural and societal

norms. Black comedians, she said, helped people laugh through difficult times, even if they were suffering, too.

Decades ago, Gourdet said, Black entertainers were barred from participating in many things their white counterparts were able to. For example, she pointed out, they were forced to enter venues through the back door, even if they were part of the evening’s entertainment.

As a result, she asserted, Black comedians do not get the credit they deserve despite being pioneers in the industry.

This is why, St. George said, it is important for audiences, young and old, to learn this history directly from the Black voices that shaped it. Many audiences don’t realize how these Black comedians have influenced them, he asserted, whether in their humor or their cultural references.

“You can’t know what your future is until you know what your past is,” St. George said. It is particularly important, he added, for any actor, comedian, singer or performer to study what their predecessors have done for the industry in order to build upon their legacies.

One of his favorite parts of giving lectures, he said, is overhearing people tell each other that they didn’t know something he taught during his presentation. “That’s when I know I’ve made my point,” he concluded.

St. George hosts many lectures at the Elmont library, but he takes his programs to several locations, including other libraries, across the island. He said he generally gives presentations about three or four times per year at the Elmont library, but a full schedule of his other presentations are available on his website, SalStGeorge.com.

members

attended

Flip Wilson performs an iconic comedy skit with Ray Charles on his show, “Flip,” which originally aired in 1971.

Audience

who

the lecture laugh at famous clips of Black comedians performing their stand-up routines on television and in movies.

Renee DeLorenzo/Herald photos

Sal St. George, a lecturer and historian, teaches audiences of all ages the history and cultural impact of Black comedians.

OBITUARY

Evelyn Delores Frierson

Passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025 in Kansas City, MO. Evelyn, born on March 1, 1930, was the youngest of five born to Edward and Annie Harper in Baltimore, MD. She was educated in Baltimore Public Schools and graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in 1949. Evelyn matriculated at Coppin State Teachers College.

In 1957 she married Elan M. Frierson Jr. and in 1962 they moved from Brooklyn, NY to Freeport. NY where they raised their four children; Deirdre, Renalre, Desiree and Michael. Evelyn worked in the Freeport Public Schools beginning in 1968. During her 37 years in Freeport Schools she worked at the Caroline G. Atkinson School with elementary school students. She had a passion for teaching reading and life skills. Evelyn’s firm nurturing nature created positive connections with countless children. These qualities extended to her faith community at the Greater Second Baptist Church where she served for many years in various roles including several, involving young people.

Services at the Greater Second Baptist Church, 129 E. Merrick Road, Freeport, NY are as follows: Viewing and Wake service, Thursday, February 13, 2025 6-Bpm Celebration of Life service, Friday, February 14, 2025 1Oam Interment, Calverton National Cemetery.

New Hyde Park Memorial’s Model United

the Yale University Model United Nations Conference,

The Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)

For those who don’t qualify for long-term care insurance or can’t afford it, the Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (“MAPT”) can protect your assets from the high cost of long-term care in your home or in a facility.

The MAPT sets up two roadblocks that Medicaid cannot break through. First, you cannot be your own trustee. Usually, one or more of the adult children act as trustee.

Secondly, you, as the creator of the MAPT, are entitled to the income only, not the principal. If you don’t have access to the principal (your home or other assets in the trust), then Medicaid doesn’t have access to the principal. The MAPT makes good sense for assets you’re not going to spend –like your home and investments you’re not using. As we often say, if you don’t need it to live on, then why not protect it for your family instead of losing it to pay for long-term care.

When you apply for Medicaid for nursing home care, if you’ve transferred any assets in the past five years, you are ineligible. The full protection of the trust only takes place five years

after you establish the trust. This is why you want to plan ahead. Proposed new rules, often delayed but constantly looming, would also require you to have the MAPT in place two and half years in advance to be eligible for care in your own home.

The MAPT does not affect your lifestyle. You still receive your pension, social security checks, minimum distributions on your retirement plans, interest and dividends. You have the exclusive right to use and enjoy your home. You keep all your property tax exemptions. You can sell your house, buy a new one, or invest the proceeds, which remain in the trust, still protected.

The MAPT is also flexible. You can change trustees and you can change who you leave it to.

Although the MAPT is an irrevocable trust, not only does it have the flexibility mentioned above, but in New York there is a mechanism to revoke an irrevocable trust. All that is required is for all parties, you and your children, to sign. We even have a workaround just in case one of the children refuses to sign.

New Hyde Park Model UN team wins big at Yale

New Hyde Park Memorial High School’s Model United Nations team attended the Yale University Model United Nations Conference from Jan. 23-25, winning 16 individual awards during the competition. According to a news release about the event, the team demonstrated excellence in global diplomacy and leadership, achieving remarkable success.

Students competed against other Model UN teams from across the nation, the news release said, and were challenged to engage in thoughtful debates, draft resolutions and navigate complex international topics.

Among their individual awards, the team received the Outstanding Large Delegation Award. The news release said this achievement underscored the collective effort and collaboration of the entire team.

Model UN Adviser Jonathan Novak said that this is the sixth time in the past seven conferences that the school’s team achieved this award, and it’s their second delegation award for this year.

–Renee DeLorenzo

■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/franklinsquare

Best Delegate

Nikita Bansal

Liam Canvanagh

Dominic Cyril

Darsh Mirchandani

Nyelle Sarreal

Alexander Tomalski

Outstanding Delegate

Gianna Bonetti

Shohom Chakraborty

Ariana Muhammad

Tanisha Patel

Honorable Delegate

Deborah Aderibigbe

Obed Glanson

Serina John

Julia Kim

Zahra Mazkur

Marco Valle

& Estates • Wills &

516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com

Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre

Courtesy Sewanhaka High School District

Nations team took home 16 awards during

Jan. 23-25.

MIKE KONDYRA

MacArthur Senior Basketball

A THREE-YEAR STARTER looking for his first AllCounty selection, Kondyra reached a milestone Jan. 27 in MacArthur’s 79-72 defeat to Long Beach. As part of a 42-point performance, he recorded her 1,000th career point. He hit seven three-pointers in what was his third 40-plus point game of the season. The AllConference honoree in 2023-24 iis averaging 25 points per game this winter to rank among Nassau County’s top five scorers.

GIRLS WRESTLING

NASSAU COUNTY CHAMPIONS

Tyasia Buxton, V.S. Central, 94 pounds

Harley Eidens, Long Beach, 100

Presley Eidens, Long Beach, 107

Gabrielle Severin, Bethpage, 114

Haley Gonzales, Hicksville, 120

Olivia Rausenberger, MacArthur, 126

Taylor Brock, Kennedy, 132

Jessica Marzano, Bethpage, 138

Gabriella Schechtman, Kennedy, 145

Keishara Tulloch, Uniondale, 152

Isabella Steffa, Seaford, 165

Eyslin Turcios, V.S. North, 185

Naomi Gonzalez, V.S. North, 235

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter 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.

Girls wrestling takes center stage

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

History was made Feb. 2 when Nassau County hosted its first-ever girls’ wrestling tournament at Bethpage High School with more than 100 entrants from over 20 districts.

Champions were crowned in 13 weight classes, ranging from 94 to 235 pounds, before a jam-packed crowd. Uniondale had the largest contingency with 22 participants as coach Tim Godoy said interest exploded after fall sports concluded.

“It’s been a really fun season and this tournament is great to see,” Godoy said. “I recruited some kids I coach in soccer and badminton and it just kind of took off from there. Last year we had two girls wrestling. By the end of the first week of practice this November, we had 30.”

Bethpage coach Sean Severin coordinated the one-day tournament and was thrilled to see everything run smooth. His daughter, Bethpage junior Gabrielle, captured the

Kennedy senior Gabriella Schechtman, who competed for MacArthur’s team, won the title at 145 pounds.

114-pound title which made a historic day that much more special.

“I was super happy with how good the event turned out,” Sean Severin said. “It drew a really big crowd and the girls brought the energy. It’s going to be a great stepping stone for the growth of the sport in Nassau County.”

Long Beach, which for more than four decades has fielded one of the premier wrestling programs in the county, has four girls competing this season including eighth-grade twins Presley and Harley Eidens. All four made the finals with the Eidens’ both winning championships.

“This is unbelievable opportunity for all the female wrestlers in Nassau,” said Long Beach coach Ray Adams, whose daughter, Reese, competes for Calhoun but missed her junior season with a knee injury that required surgery. “Our youth program, the Gladiators, started a girls program a few years ago and it keeps growing,” he said.

Adams credited 2020 graduate Lina Diamond with being the trailblazer for the budding Long Beach girls program. Presley Eidens, who also plays lacrosse and volleyball, said she started wrestling about two-and-ahalf years ago and grapples with her sister every day in practice. Freshmen Arianna Balsamo (152) and Sofia Calle (165) are also workout partners. “They’ve all improved every match,” Adams noted.

Valley Stream Central junior Tyasia Buxton said she joined wrestling to bring additional discipline into her

life. She just took up the until four months ago but has come a long way in a short time, coach Chris Carbajal said. Buxton captured the 94-pound crown.

“Really proud of her,” Carbajal said. “She made a commitment and stuck to it all season.”

Buxton credits a good deal of her success to scraping against boys almost exclusively this season. “I’ve taken my losses, but I learned a lot and I’m better for it,” she said. “It feels great to win. I gave it my all and didn’t give up.”

Lynbrook junior Dani Zhanay is one of the county’s most-experienced wrestlers. She’s been competing for eight years, coach Rich Renz said, after starting with the Titans youth league. “She loves competing and has a lot of skill,” Renz explained.

Uniondale sophomore Brianna Marquez is one of a

handful of soccer players who decided to give wrestling a try at the urging of Godoy. She was runner-up to Presley Eidens at 107. The Knights crowned one champion — sophomore Keishara Tulloch at 152.

“All the girls are amazing and the wrestling community has been really supportive,” Marquez said. “We all push each other harder every day. It’s definitely something I can see myself continuing to do.” Valley Stream North crowned a pair of champs with juniors Eyslin Turcios winning at 185 and Naomi Gonzaez emerging victorious at 235. Kennedy saw senior Gabriella Schechtman win at 145 and eighth-grader Taylor Brock finish first at 132. All 13 county champs along with six second-place finishers advance to the girls state tournament Feb. 27 in Albany.

Terry Uellendahl/Herald photos Valley Stream Central’s Tyasia Buxton captured the 94-pound crown.

Elmont library pays tribute to life in Africa

By MELISSA PANIN

Intern

In celebration of Black History Month at the Elmont Memorial Library, the artwork of Paul Oresky is on display at the library’s first floor art gallery. His photographs have been available for viewing since the beginning of February, and will stay up through the end of the month. The gallery is available to the public, and all library guests can observe the photo collection when they visit.

Jean Simpson, director of the Elmont Memorial Library, explained that all of the library’s chosen artists are local, which allows them the opportunity share their artwork with the community. She said the library wants to give local artists the recognition they deserve.

Oresky, who resides in Oceanside, has been recognized in libraries across the island for his photography. The artist, who is now 77, wrote that he has been actively photographing since he was 25 and has travelled worldwide as a freelance photographer since 2000.

The library provides a platform for artists like Oresky to display their work without the expectation of sales, Simpson explained, but instead for community enjoyment. She said that these exhibits are meticulously planned, with artists booked months in advance.

Lee Gorray, an Elmont library adult reference librarian, organizes these exhibits every month, collaborating with artists through word-of-mouth and community connections. According to Gorray, she’s admired Oresky’s other work at the library for a few years. He’s done previous exhibits with his photographs of birds, Manhattan buildings and others.

Her decision to choose this artist for the month of February was influenced by his collection, “The African Photo

like to visit.

Oresky regularly presents his photography in the Oceanside and Baldwin public libraries, and will also have more work displayed at the Elmont library in May with scheduled shows for both the summer and autumn.

Exhibit on the Mother Country,” which she thought would be the perfect way to celebrate Black History Month. Gorray said she felt the community would enjoy this exhibit due to its cultural relevancy.

Oresky’s travels to Kenya and Tanzania allowed him to take intimate photos of the native people and wildlife. He was able to capture the beauty of the Serengeti and the Mara’s culture, landscape, animals and people.

“Photography allows me to document the world around me, and the various places I visit literally and artistically,” he said of his work. He described photography as a way to share his travels and express his creative side.

His photographs of the Maasai People capture their culture and traditions dating back to the 18th century, according to Oresky. He said that his experience on safari in Kenya and Tanzania still would’ve been extraordinary, even if he hadn’t taken photographs.

Oresky said the experience humbled him. “Perhaps the novelty of not having the powerful presence of hand of man creations dominating the landscape is the reason,” he wrote. He also described a sense of calmness in the beauty he observed.

The beauty he experienced can now be shared in the Elmont library’s art gallery, which is open to anyone who would

The library’s commemoration of Black history extends beyond the artwork of Oresky, as well, and can be celebrated through lectures, theatre programs, crafts and activities in appreciation of the Black community’s contributions to American culture. Oresky’s work is just one piece of the puzzle, Simpson said. The library staff encouraged everybody to check out the artwork presented each month in the library. Simpson added that the library offers many programs to children, teens and adults, and their art gallery is just one more thing that helps bring the community together. “We’re not just books,” Simpson stressed. “It’s a place for people to come and celebrate whatever it is they do.”

Melissa Panin/Herald photos

The collection, “Africa: The Maasai People,” photographed by Oresky during his time in Kenya and Tanzania, Africa, shows the environment and culture of the Maasai People.

The collection, “Africa: On Safari in Kenya and Tanzania,” photographed by Oresky during his time in the Serengeti and the Mara in Africa, expresses the raw beauty of wildlife in the African Savannah.

A tree and cheetah, photographed by Oresky, expresses beauty in the nature and wildlife he observed in Africa.

By Danielle Schwab

GOUT

Friends

Dinosaurs and epic roars

et ready to embark on Jurassic Quest, one of the largest immersive dinosaur experiences in North America. The traveling prehistoric adventure, which combining archaeology with the latest tech, returns to Nassau Coliseum with its herd this weekend, Feb. 15-17.

Journey back 165 million years — to a time when mighty dinos ruled the Earth. The arena transforms into the TriassicJurassic and Cretaceous periods with life-like dinosaurs to observe and interact with during, that’s sure to spark the imagination.

“We bring dinosaurs to people in a way that’s fun, interactive and educational that you can’t find anywhere else,” says Jurassic Quest dinosaur expert Sarah Menard, better known as “Safari Sarah,” one of the expert “dino trainers.”

“You can go to a museum to see dinosaurs, but you’re only going to see fossils. You’re going to see educational things, but it’s not going to be as interactive or fun as maybe bouncing on a giant dinosaur inflatable would be,” she says.

There are plenty of opportunities to dig into the excitement. Hop on rideable dinosaurs, engage in hands-on science and art activities, enjoy thrilling dinosaur shows, observe real-life artifacts — and that’s only the start.

All of this — enhanced by carefully chosen vegetation, immersive sound effects, dynamic lighting, and interactive electronics — will make you feel like you’ve truly stepped into another time.

“One of my favorite things to see is whenever kids walk in their jaws drop, and then their parents walk in right after them and they do the same exact thing,” Safari Sarah adds.

Expect to see all your favorite dinos and meet new ones, including the formidable Triceratops, towering longnecks, fierce raptors, and of course, the infamous Tyrannosaurus Rex — standing proud at 20 feet tall as the ultimate apex predator.

Dig into the mysteries of our favorite prehistoric pals

• Feb. 15-16 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Feb. 17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Tickets start at $22 (Use code QUEST15 for 15 percent off admission); available at jurassicquest.com or on-site

• Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike Uniondale

where they can channel their

where they can channel their inner paleontologist, and study replicated and real fossils like T-Rex teeth, a triceratops horn and life-size dino skull.

“They can learn not only how fossils are made, but they can make fossils themselves, and at the end of the day, they get to walk away with a dinosaurshaped fossil,” Safari Sarah says.

On display, you’ll find real artifacts like Megalodon and dinosaur teeth, horseshoe crabs, and maybe even a dinosaur skull.

of the Brothers Friends of the Brothers returns to the Landmark stage with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers. Their powerful celebration featuring musicians closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique. Guitarist/singer Junior Mack has fronted Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band for 12 years and starred in the acclaimed Broadway show “Lackawanna Blues.” Guitarist Andy Aledort played with Dickey Betts for 12 years while singer/guitarist Alan Paul is the author of “One Way Out,” the definitive, best-selling Allman Brothers biography based on 25 years of reporting on and interviewing the band. Their firsthand experience with the Allman Brothers and their deep knowledge of the repertoire, its roots and heritage allows them to play with an unrivaled depth, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players. Rock on!

Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 p.m. $38, $33. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or call (516) 767-6444.

Every dinosaur is created in collaboration with top paleontologists to create accurate depictions. As more is learned about these prehistoric creatures, their features are updated to reflect the most authentic depiction of dinosaurs in their prime.

This year, you may see some different feather placement and colors added to the pack.

“We actually know that feathers were a lot more prominent than we originally thought. There are even some paleontologists that think that the T-Rex had feathers,” Safari Sarah explains.

While we may think of dinosaurs in their largerthan-life forms, they, of course started out young — and “small.” Meet the baby dinos, Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex, and Trixie the Triceratops, three lovable hatchlings ready to play with new friends!

“They all have their own personalities. They’re all kinds of tricksters and will steal your hat or your phone from you. They’re cute little buddies,” Safari Sarah says.

“The famous question we get is ‘Is this really real?”’ There’s much to explore at each activity station, including an opportunity to become a Utahraptor trainer for the largest raptor in the world. The team instruct families on different commands and tricks to use that they can try out for themselves.

Kids will also want to check out the fossil dig,

For those looking for some self-guided fun, there’s

For those looking for some self-guided fun, there’s a scavenger hunt-style activity that the whole family can explore. Go on “The Quest,” a scavenger hunt-style activity where budding paleontologists can become Jr. Park Rangers, and learn all about the dinosaurs and time periods with the help of a fun and fact-filled video tour.

And the youngest adventurers have a spot all their own. Little dino-lovers can roam the ‘Triceratots’ soft play area, taking a well-deserved break from the excitement.

and learn all about the dinosaurs and time periods with the help the

While dinosaurs connect us to the past, they also connect all of this

While dinosaurs connect us to the past, they also connect all ages to a sense of wonder.

“If a parent can step outside of their ‘common sense’ and get into ‘wow, this is a real science,’ it really opens it up for their children as well, ” Safari Sarah says.

From a child’s toy to life-like moving creatures, atmosphere

From a child’s toy to life-like moving creatures, dinosaurs unearth new — but actually very old — possibilities.

“Studying dinosaurs is a gateway science,” Safari Sarah explains. “It opens it up to all these different sciences that talk about our Earth or the atmosphere or the stars. Things that have always been around since the beginning of time.”

Photos courtesy Jurassic Quest

His ‘Bronx Tale’ Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage, with his solo version of “A Bronx Tale.” The powerful one-man stage play depicts his bruising childhood, which included witnessing a gangland killing in the Bronx when he was nine years old. Palminteri plays 18 characters and brings them all to life in his autobiographical play. His friends, enemies and family all come alive on stage. It became a hit after he wrote it in 1989 and the most sought after property since “Rocky.” This is the original show he wrote and performed that made him an in-demand character actor and served as the basis of the acclaimed movie and Broadway musical. Bronx-born and raised, Palminteri was a natural choice to continue the long line of prominent Italian actors in the film industry.

Trainer Safari Sarah (at left) knows her way around a dinosaur herd. These prehistoric creatures — of all shapes and sizes — roar to life at Jurassic Quest.

Sunday, Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m., $99.50, $89.50, $79.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Visit ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com for tickets.

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m.; Monday through Saturday, Feb. 1722, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. It is 3017 in this futuristic, musical retelling of “Cinderella.” She’s now a space engineer looking to revolutionize space travel. When the Prince holds a space parade, Cinderella saves it by helping fix the Prince’s spaceship. Cinderella knows it’s the perfect opportunity to show the Prince her new hyper warp speed engine.

But first, she’ll have to keep her evil stepmother from throwing a wrench in her plans! $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.

Play canasta

Join in a friendly game of canasta, Fridays, 1-4 p.m., at Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road. For more information, visit franklinsquarepl.org or call (516) 488-3444.

In concert

Jupiter String Quartet returns to Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, Friday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. The intimate group of violinists Nelson Lee and Meg Freivogel, violist Liz Freivogel (Meg’s older sister), and cellist Daniel McDonough (Meg’s husband, Liz’s brotherin-law) are brought together by ties both familial and musical.

The ensemble brings its well-honed musical chemistry to three works shaped by bold musicality and deeply meaningful thematic inspirations, including Warmth from Other Suns by Carlos Simon; String Quartet No. 3, Glitter, Doom, Shards, Memory by Shulamit; and String Quartet No. 13 in B-flat Major, Op. 130 with the Grosse Fuge by Ludwig van Beethoven. 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi.edu/pac.

Having an event?

A Band Called Honalee

Plaza Theatricals welcomes the modern-day folk trio, Sunday, Feb. 23 , 2:30 p.m. Inspired by the music and legacy of Peter, Paul & Mary, the ensemble offers up an energetic interactive tribute. Satisfying diehard PPM lovers as well as newcomers to this wonderful era of music, their concer features all of PPM’s beloved hits, including “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Blowing in the Wind,” and of course “Puff The Magic Dragon.”

With stirring vocal harmonies and polished showmanship, they also offers favorites from Bob Dylan, The Byrds, Pete Seeger, Joni Mitchell, The Mamas & The Papas, Joan Baez, The Weavers, and more. $40, $35 seniors. Groove along at Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit plazatheatrical. com.

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

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) which publicly launched the movement. The direct followup 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. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/ Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.

Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Hempstead House tour

Feb.

Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, Feb. 16, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Hundreds Attend The R.E.A.L. Awards

Event celebrates professionals driving growth and community development

By Angelina Zingariello

RichnerLIVE hosted its fourth annual R.E.A.L. Awards on Jan. 29, honoring the outstanding entrepreneurs, professionals and visionaries shaping Long Island’s real estate industry.

This event, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, recognized individuals who have excelled in their fields and dedicated themselves to community advocacy and development.

“We strive to spotlight these developments and the people and organizations behind them week in and week out,” Stuart Richner, president and publisher of Richner Communications Inc., said. “Your work is vital for our shared growth and prosperity.”

The ceremony emphasized the deep connection between real estate and local communities, highlighting how industry leaders contribute to the region’s growth and well-being. The event celebrated the accomplishments of professionals whose efforts go beyond building structures; they lay the foundation for thriving neighborhoods and economic prosperity.

The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, where attendees mingled and connected with friends and colleagues. The networking session set the tone for the night, allowing industry leaders to celebrate their shared achievements and contributions to the local real estate landscape.

“It’s always an honor to be honored,” said Sheldon Shrenkel, CEO and executive director of the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency, said. “We appreciate the recognition, and to be together with all these other wonderful people in similar professions.”

After dinner, the awards ceremony was hosted by five-time Emmy Awardwinning investigative reporter Kristin Thorne. The honorees were recognized for their achievements, and came to the stage to accept their awards.

“It is always an honor to be celebrated multiple times by fellow architects and industry organizations,” Willy Zambrano, founder and design principal at Zambrano Architecutal Design, said. “However, recognition from another professional field is truly invaluable, particularly when it comes from a local news outlet. I’m elated to receive the Architectural Design Excellence award from this event.”

Keynote speaker Mike Florio, CEO of the Long Island Builders Institute, addressed the growing challenges in Long Island’s real estate market, emphasizing how rising construction costs, insurance premiums and restrictive zoning regulations are making homeownership increasingly difficult. Despite these obstacles, Florio highlighted the region’s desirability, and the need for collaborative efforts among developers, policymakers and local businesses to create sustainable, mixed-use communities that accommodate evolving demographic needs while ensuring

economic stability.

“To achieve these goals, we must take this conversation beyond a solution,” Florio said. “Everyone inside understands the challenges we face, but we need to reach a broader audience. Too often, the highest voices in the room are the small but local minority that is resistant to change.”

The annual Herald R.E.A.L. Awards served as a reminder of the vital role real estate professionals play in shaping Long Island’s future, not only through development but also through advocacy and community engagement. The evening brought together industry leaders to celebrate their achievements, foster connections and discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead.

A portion of the proceeds from the

evening benefited General Needs Ltd., a nonprofit organization that is committed to supporting homeless veterans. Founded in May 2015, General Needs provides essential services to veterans in emergency shelters in Brooklyn and Queens and across Long Island. The organization operates entirely through community support, ensuring that all donations directly assist those in need.

For a full list of honorees and photos, visit richnerlive.com/realestate.

Robert Esposito, founder of Relocators Service Inc. and author, “Nobody Move!” with Stuart Richner

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Honoree Nicholas Ceccarini with friends and family of Weatherstone Mortgage Corp

Hundreds cheer on our 2025 honorees

Keynote Speaker Mike Florio, Long Island Builders Institute

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Honoree Kevin D. Boone, Keller Williams Realty of Greater Nassau

Honoree Christina Volz and Nancy Cuite, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Honoree Sheldon L. Shrenkel, Nassau County IDA

Father/son honorees Kenneth and Stanley Schuckman, Schuckman Realty

Honoree Brendan D’Loren of Terwilliger & Bartone and Stuart Richner

Cocktail hour filled with 2025 honorees and their guests ahead of the ceremony

Honoree Tiffany Balanoff, Douglass Elliman

Honorees Vito Giannola, Provident Bank and Dee Dee Brix, Compass

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Honoree Willy L. Zambrano, Zambrano Architectural Design, LLC

Honoree Joseph Farkas, Metropolitan Realty Associates, LLC

Legislators sue over county’s ‘illegal militia’

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Nassau County Democratic legislators and civil rights attorneys filed a lawsuit against the county last week, branding County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of special sheriff’s deputies an “illegal militia.”

“Bruce Blakeman’s militia is not about public safety — it’s political theater at the expense of Nassau County residents,” Legislator Seth Koslow, ranking member of the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, said. “There is no justification for creating an unaccountable and illegal force that answers only to the county executive.”

Legislator Scott Davis criticized the measure as unnecessary, citing Nassau’s ranking as one of the safest counties in the country, and called for an increase in properly trained law enforcement officers as an alternative to the volunteer deputy program. The county currently employs over 2,500 officers who have undergone rigorous training.

In the event that the county’s existing law enforcement and crisis volunteers are insufficient, the county has the ability to call for assistance from law enforcement agencies in neighboring counties.

The lawsuit alleges that the county’s application process for the program requires minimal qualifications, including ownership of a pistol license and no

Democratic Nassau County legislators filed a lawsuit in State Supreme Court last week against the county and County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of a special sheriff’s deputy program. Legislators Carrié Solages, far left, Scott Davis, Seth Koslow, Debra Mulé, Arnold Drucker and Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton gathered to announce the suit on Feb. 5.

“misdemeanor convictions within the previous five years.” For each day of activation during an emergency, a volunteer would receive a stipend of $150, which exceeds the hourly rate of pay limit that deputies may receive without legislative approval.

The lawsuit cites a Newsday investigation that found that 25 people had enlisted in the program as of last Sep -

tember, six of whom were not able to be found through background checks. The plaintiffs allege that the county’s program appears to require significantly less training than its regular police training.

Carey Dunne, an attorney from the Free and Fair Litigation Group, argued that this poses a risk to the general public.

“County Executive Blakeman’s mili-

tia endangers public safety in Nassau County and the health of our democracy nationwide,” Dunne said. “Our lawsuit alleges an authoritarian power grab in the heart of suburban America. We cannot let the abuse of executive power go unanswered.”

Legislator Debra Mulé alleged that special sheriff’s deputies are an illegal group that should not be funded with taxpayer money, and that the county executive should be compelled to comply with public record laws.

“We filed formal Freedom of Information Law requests to get answers, and Blakeman ignored them,” Mulé said. “Even the county budget hides how much money is being funneled into this program. If this militia is such a great idea, why is he hiding it from the public?”

Blakeman is the first defendant in the case, alongside Nassau County Sheriff Anthony LaRocco. Blakeman was adamant in his opposition to the lawsuit and his support of the volunteer unit.

“Debra Mulé and Scott Davis are a disgrace for bringing this frivolous action and defaming the volunteers, many of whom are retired military and law enforcement, who have agreed to pitch in in the event of an emergency,” Blakeman said in a statement. “The antisemitic statements, denigrating these good citizens by labeling them as Nazi brownshirts, disqualify them for public service.”

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR REGISTERED HOLDERS OF CWABS, INC., ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-13, Plaintiff,

v. VINCENT MCPHERSON, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LAVERN MCPHERSON A/K/A LAVERN VERONICA

MCPHERSON A/K/A

LAVERN DACOSTA A/K/A LAVERN DACOSTAMCPHERSON, ET AL, Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on December 16, 2022, I,

Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 25, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 168 Freeman Avenue Elmont, NY 11003

SBL No.: 37-371-285

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 613803/2018 in the amount of $497,953.24 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff

500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604

Tel.: 855-227-5072 151108

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY

U.S. BANK NATIONAL

ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY

COMMERCIAL

CAPITAL LOAN TRUST

2021-2, Plaintiff against MILLER COMMERCIAL CONSULTANTS CORP; RODOLPHO MILLER, et al

Defendant (s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s)

McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 24, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 25, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 1717 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, NY 11003. Sec 32 Block 453 Lot 9 and 10. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Elmont (not an incorporated Village), Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $795,715.93 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 609476/2023. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee File # 23-001035-01 151106

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, in trust for registered holders of First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust, Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2007-FF2, Plaintiff AGAINST Erslena J. Jacob, The Estate of James S. Keaton a/k/a James Keaton, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 19, 2023, 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 February 25, 2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 1371 North Street, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 549, Lot: 50-52 & 249. Approximate amount of judgment $711,244.77 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613057/2017. Howard

Colton, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-057763-F01 83905 151067

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiffagainst - SHIRLEY GARTNER, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 1, 2024. 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 27th day of February, 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 in the Incorporated Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 100 Geranium Avenue, Floral Park, NY 11001. (S/B/L#: 32./188/41 and 42)

Approximate amount of lien $782,990.97 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 000151/2018. Karen C. Grant, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: December 31, 2024

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 6-feet 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. 151235

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU -------------------------------X

INDEX NO: 608851/2017

Notice of Sale

Easton Capital Corp. Plaintiff, - against745 Anderson Corp., Juan DeJesus Portela Arce, Liliana Portela Gil, “John Doe” and “Jane Doe”, said names being fictitious, parties intended being possible tenants or occupants of the premises, Defendants.

-------------------------------X

NOTICE OF SALE, SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

Easton Capital Corp. v. 745 Anderson Corp., Juan DeJesus Portela Arce, Liliana Portela Gil.

Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly filed on July 26, 2023, I the undersigned referee will sell at public auction at the at the CCP (Calendar Control Part Courtroom) in the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on Tuesday March 11, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., the premises known as: 745 Anderson Avenue, Franklin Square, NY 11010. Said Premises known as Section 35, Block 577, Lot 25 on the tax maps of Nassau County

Approximate amount of Judgment: $811,299.70 plus interest, legal fees and costs Premises will be sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment under Index No. 608851/2017

Michael Langer, Esq., referee

Kevin P. Finn, Attorney for Plaintiff 400 Post Ave Suite 305 Westbury, NY 11590 Dated January 28, 2025 151389

LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners, Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York at a regularly scheduled meeting thereof held on January 28, 2025, subject to Permissive Referendum as provided by Town Law. An abstract of the resolution is as follows: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, shall expend monies for the purchase of a new Chief’s vehicle and related accessories in an amount not to exceed, onehundred thousand dollars

($100,000.00). Said funds to be expended from Equipment Reserve as authorized by Section 6-g of the General Municipal Law. This resolution shall take effect 30 days from the date hereof, unless within 30 days a valid petition, as provided for in the Town Law is filed with the Fire District Secretary requesting a Permissive Referendum.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Attest: Kerry Santina District Secretary January 28, 2025 151516

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given in accordance with Section 103 of the New York State General Municipal Law, that the Elmont Public Library Board of Trustees, Elmont, New York 11003 will accept sealed bids at the Elmont Public Library, Business Office, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, New York 11003, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 10:00 am., at which time the following bid will be opened and read aloud.

Bid: EPL 2025-01, Landscaping Services Bid

The bid documents are available and may be examined at the Elmont Public Library, Business Office, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, New York between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

All bids must be submitted on the Bid Forms supplied by the Elmont Public Library and subject to all detailed specifications, terms and conditions stated herein.

The Elmont Public Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids in part or whole and waive any informality, and to accept the bid which is deemed most favorable to the interests of the Elmont Public Library, Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau.

Dated: 02/03/2025 By Order of the Elmont Public Library Board of Trustees 151517

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given in accordance with Section 103 of the New York State General Municipal Law, that the Elmont Public Library Board of Trustees, Elmont, New York 11003 will accept sealed bids at the Elmont Public Library, Business Office, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, New York 11003, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 10:00 am., at which time the following bid will be opened and read aloud.

Bid:

EPL 2025-02, Video Surveillance System Bid

The bid documents are available and may be examined at the Elmont Public Library, Business Office, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, New York between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. All bids must be submitted on the Bid Forms supplied by the Elmont Public Library and subject to all detailed specifications, terms and conditions stated herein. The Elmont Public Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids in part or whole and waive any informality, and to accept the bid which is deemed most favorable to the interests of the Elmont Public Library, Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau.

Dated: 02/03/2025 By Order of the Elmont Public Library Board of Trustees 151518

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. Search by publication name at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 25th day of February, 2025 at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: Hempstead, New York

February 4,2025

ELMONT 237th STREET - west side, starting at a point 115 feet south of the south curbline of 115th Terrace, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-19/25)

UNIONDALE PAFF AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 222 feet south of the south curbline of Jerusalem Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-21/25) ; and, BE IT FURTHER BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 151511

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 25th day of February, 2025, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Chapter 202 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at the following location: FRANKLIN SQUARE ROOSEVELT AVENUE (TH 535(B)/24)Section 202-7 East Side - TWO HOUR PARKING EXCEPT SATURDAY, SUNDAY & HOLIDAYS - starting at a point 90 feet south of the south curbline of Delmar Avenue, then south for a distance of 60 feet. ALSO, to REPEAL from Chapter 202 “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking from the following locations: FRANKLIN SQUARE ROOSEVELT AVENUE (TH 535/24)Section 202-7 East Side - TWO HOUR PARKING EXCEPT SATURDAY, SUNDAY & HOLIDAYS - starting at a point 110 feet south of the south curbline of Delmar Avenue, then south for a distance of 38 feet.

(Adopted 12/10/24) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: February 4, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 151510

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 605818/2019 in the amount of $696,237.61 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 151535

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL

516-569-4000 x 232

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY MUNICIPAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff against JEANETTE MILLER A/K/A JEANETTE SAMUELS A/K/A JEANETTE MILLERSAMUELS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern, Lavinthal & Frankenberg, LLC, 103 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 100, Roseland, NJ 07068.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered April 16, 2024, Order Substituting Referee entered May 9, 2024 and Order Extending Time to Set Sale entered January 14, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 13, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 26 Essex Road, Elmont, NY 11003. Sec 32 Block 404 Lot 358. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land with the building and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $98,713.32 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 605901/2019.

LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU M&T BANK, Plaintiff, v. DAVID B. KAYODE, ET AL, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on November 21, 2024, I, Robert J. Aiello, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on March 14, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 11619 240th Street a/k/a 116-19 240th Street Elmont, NY 11003 SBL No.: 32-640-242,243 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.

Public Notices

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Peter H. Levy, Esq., Referee File # 202100025 151537

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF STANWICH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST F, Plaintiff, vs. CRAIG MYMAN, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 27, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Town of Islip, Islip Town Hall, 655 Main Street, Islip, NY 11751 on April 1, 2025, at 1:30 PM, premises known as 42 ADMIRALS DRIVE EAST, WEST BAY SHORE, NY 11706. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Islip, County of Suffolk and State of New York District: 0500, Section: 470.01, Block: 01.00, Lot: 142.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $667,749.40 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 203147/2022. The referee does not accept cash, only bank checks or certified checks payable to Michael T. Clancy as referee. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.

MICHAEL THOMAS CLANCY, Esq., Referee

Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 151542

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, LIMOSA, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. IFTEKHER HASSAN, IF LIVING, AND IF HE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 236 Holland Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 440 and Lots 123-125. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,000,472.26 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #002479/2014.

Karl C. Seman, Esq., Referee Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 151525

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST JACQUELINE SALMON, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 2, 2024, 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 March 18, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1601 Johnson Avenue 13, Elmont, NY 11003.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Hamlet of Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION 32 BLOCK 470 LOT 27. Approximate amount of judgment $717,212.08 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #011587/2008. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-120754 84238 151496

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff -againstUNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH TANTALO, as if they be dead, etc..., et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated March 7, 2024 and entered on March 12, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 14, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as Section 35 Block 496 Lot 83. Said premises known as 815 FRANKLIN AVE, UNIT 4, FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY 11010

Approximate amount of lien $613,074.75 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 612238/2017.

JANE SHRENKEL, ESQ., Referee

DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590

For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

DLG# 38723

{* Elmont Herald*} 151454

LEGAL NOTICE

N E W S R E L E A S E

Sewanhaka Central High School District

Serving: Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square, New Hyde Park

Administrative Offices: 77 Landau Avenue, Floral Park, NY 11001

Regina M. Agrusa, Superintendent of Schools

February 5, 2025

SEWANHAKA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

REMINDER TO PARENTS OF PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOL

CHILDREN:

TRANSPORTATION

REQUEST DUE BY APRIL 1

Sewanhaka Central High School District parents are reminded that New York State Law requires a written transportation request annually - by April 1 - from parents or guardians of students who plan to attend private or parochial schools within or outside the school district in which they legally reside. Proof of residency in the Sewanhaka Central High School District must be submitted with all new applications.

Requests must be submitted by April 1, 2025, for the school year beginning September 2025. New residents are required to apply within 30 days after having established residency in this District.

Transportation application forms for the 2025/2026 school year have been distributed to current private and parochial school students as well as to the private and parochial schools. Forms are available on the district’s transportation webpage: https://www.sewanhakas chools.org/page/transport ation.

Applications must be completed online by April 1, 2025.

Sewanhaka Central High School District Transportation Office 77 Landau Avenue Floral Park, NY 11001 516-488-9821 151514

Students’ artwork on display at hockey game

game against the Vegas Golden Knights, as well as T-shirts with their respective patch designs, which were handed out during a 5 p.m. pre-game celebration at the village.

A professional airbrush artist, Zoie Lam, also created T-shirts for each contest winner with a special design for their name. The group of more than 60 guests was treated to free coffee and hot chocolates at the village restaurant, Pret A Manger.

After the celebration, the group walked from the village to the arena to watch the game. In between the second and third periods, the students gathered, and appeared on the jumbotron above the ice rink as a public-address announcer listed their winning designs.

For the patch contest, intended to be a creative intersection of art and sports, students created a design that incorporated their culture with aspects of the Islanders’ history, such as their logo.

For example, Josias Saba, a student at California Avenue School in Uniondale, combined the team’s logo with the flag of his parent’s home country, Honduras. As someone who loves art and sports, Josias said, he enjoyed being able to include details from his cultural heritage in the design of his patch.

The winning designs were produced as patches and stickers, which the Islanders funded, and given to schools so students could sell their artwork. The funds raised through the sales will be donated to charities of the students’ choosing.

Children of a variety of cultural backgrounds — Greek, Honduran, Pakistani, Haitian, Salvadoran, Asian — took part in the contest, which generated a wide-ranging collection of designs that represented the community’s diversity.

Alexander Seretis, who attends Stewart Manor School in Elmont, is of Chinese and Greek heritage. His patch design merged elements from the Islanders’ logo and a trophy with the Greek flag and two olive branches. He said he was very proud of his cultural background, and was happy to share it as part of the contest.

The acknowledgement and celebration of local diversity is part of the Islander’s commitment to giving back to the community, as well as an initiative laid out in the village’s DO GOOD program. The program exists at all 12 villages owned by their developer, The Bicester Collection, in Europe, China and the U.S., and partners with local charities aimed to empower women and children.

Tania Lawes, a community director for Belmont Park Village and the director of external affairs and community engagement for the Islanders, has been directing the patch contest since 2020. She said the village was proud to celebrate the creativity of young artists and their special contributions to the community.

“It was a privilege to welcome the winning fifth-grade students and their families to the village,” Lawes said. “We look forward to continuing to support initiatives that empower and uplift the next generation.”

Lily Seretis, Alexander’s mother, said that empowerment is precisely what winning the contest offered her son. She said he is always busy with school and his hobbies, which include playing the cello, cooking for the family and being a member of his school’s robotics team. But, Lily continued, it was great to see Alexander, who puts so much hard work into everything he does, be recognized for his talents.

“I’m very proud of him,” she said. “He just follows his heart. He can build more confidence and do more in the future. He can believe in himself.”

As for Josiah Saba, who said he is a big fan of the Islanders, combining his interest in artwork with his love for the team was a fun experience, and it was exciting to be recognized at last week’s game.

Jason Katz, the chief commercial officer of The Bicester Collection, said it is important to stay connected with local residents in order to keep the village a unique, community-driven destination for guests.

“Just as we invite our guests to be part of village life,” Katz said in a statement, “we are equally committed to building meaningful connections, supporting local initiatives, and contributing to the community we now call home.”

According to a news release about the collection, the Elmont village is still in the process of identifying key local charities to work with. As of now, it has begun work with the Islanders Children’s Foundation, but it plans to expand community initiatives in an effort to further connect with locals.

Courtesy New York Islanders

Some of the winning designs from the patch contest displaying the cultural diversity in the uniondale, elmont and Hempstead communities.

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Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

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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

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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

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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. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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Nailing down the permits

Q. We completely rebuilt in 1996, and are ready to retire and sell. Our real estate agent told us they checked our permit records and it was never signed off. Although it’s a long story, our first contractor went to jail and destroyed our original permit papers. The second contractor never got a plumbing permit or electrical sign-offs, even though they had people do the work. Is this going to be a big problem to get everything signed off, because we want to sell within the year to take advantage of the market right now? What can you advise?

A. Sounds like you went through a lot. Most people tell me they could write a book about their experience. You need to see your building department records and get copies of the signed and sealed plans. Many municipalities keep records either in paper form, which you may have to pay for copies of, or microfilm or computer files.

Then speak with your inspector to find out what they think needs to be done. Most will be very helpful, and allow for the process to continue, asking you to hire a plumber to get a permit, which involves your notarized signature so you know it’s being done. In way too many cases, the plumber or contractor says it was done when it really wasn’t, so most municipalities require the owner’s signature on permit applications so the building department and owner are aware that the process is being done and is not false.

The plumber needs to see your bathrooms, kitchen, heating equipment and any other plumbing to be sure it meets the plumbing code (and building code). The same process must be done with an electrician, but most building departments ask for a certification from a private agency, not your electrician, since most building departments don’t have an electrical inspector. The reason for this is that one of the two leading causes of fire is electrical (the other being use of the kitchen) so your local government wants nothing to do with the liability for fire safety.

You’ll find that almost everyone in this process wants to avoid responsibility as much as possible. You may have to either call for an inspection agency yourself or, if you suspect that there could be questionable electrical work, hire a licensed electrician to inspect and correct before hiring an agency to detect, if you elect. The private agency charges a few hundred dollars, usually, depending on the number of rooms and outdoor items, like air conditioning condensers, pool equipment and landscape lights, which must also be inspected. After all this is done, you may be able to get a final inspection and a sign-off and certificate from your building department, unless … your building department makes you get plans and a new survey redrawn and updated to the most recent code, which is complicated, time-consuming and expensive — in the thousands of dollars — before you can get a final inspection. Allow plenty of time.

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On smartphones, collaborate, don’t mandate

The advent of smartphones, social media and other personal devices has brought about a revolution that has impacted everything from the way we communicate and socialize to the way we research information and work. While these technologies offer undeniable benefits, they also present significant challenges, particularly for our youth.

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed statewide ban on student smartphone use during the school day aims to address these challenges, but a top-down approach risks creating more problems than it solves. The governor has charged each school district with devising a plan for eliminating student smartphone use during the school day. While the motivation behind her proposal is laudable, the impact of this mandate could place schools at odds with students and their families. The path forward requires collaboration with our stakeholders, not mandates. The research highlighting the nega-

Ntive impacts of social media on young people, especially girls, is compelling. Teachers, administrators and even students themselves acknowledge that smartphones are a problem. In addition to harmful effects on student well-being, their use has an adverse effect on learning, socialization and development. Students whose use of smartphones is unregulated tend to pay attention less in class. As teachers battle for attention, learning declines. Students may try to pay attention, but the gravitational pull of their phones is just too great. Between the alerts, the messages, the apps and the games, it’s extremely difficult for even the most diligent students to resist the urge to check their devices. We can all agree that something must be done.

Acommunities, access to smartphones is more than just play; it is a lifeline to work and needed resources.

s we discuss their challenges in schools, we can’t overlook their benefits.

Hochul frames phones as a public health threat, justifying government intervention. However, we must consider parental choice and respect the principle of local control. Schools need to work with teachers, families and students to co-construct “rules of engagement” for student smartphone use. We also need to understand the perspectives of all stakeholders before we make decisions that alter the way students navigate their day at schools.

are also significant. Storing thousands of phones every day will present logistical and financial burdens for schools that are already stretched thin. While the state proposes funding for storage solutions, the ongoing costs of staffing and implementation remain a concern. Moreover, how will schools facilitate communication between parents and children in emergencies? These logistical hurdles underscore the need for careful planning and collaboration.

But as we discuss the challenges of phones in schools, we cannot overlook the benefits they provide. Teachers may utilize phones during class for instant feedback, and students rely on them when their school-issued devices malfunction or are unavailable. Additionally, some families rely on the access to their teens for coordinating child care or work schedules. In lower-income

We should teach students to be responsible young adults, with the ability to self-regulate, by fostering opportunities for them to do so. By teaching them from a young age to manage their phones, we empower them with lifelong skills that they will need in order to succeed in most workplaces. During these conversations with family members, we will undoubtedly find that one-size solutions will not fit every district. Instead, school leaders, in consultation with teachers, parents and students, should be able to develop their own solutions.

The practical implications of a ban

Many districts already have cellphone policies in place. These models, along with input from all stakeholders, should inform the development of targeted strategies that work for them. Let’s allow schools the flexibility to develop plans that are responsive to the unique needs of their communities.

The goal is to create safe and productive learning environments in which children are free from the distracting influence of their phones. This requires open communication, mutual respect, and a commitment to finding solutions that work for everyone. By fostering collaboration and empowering local communities, we can effectively address the challenges of smartphone use in schools.

Monique Darrisaw-Akil is superintendent of the Uniondale Union Free School District.

High anxiety is gripping many Americans

ot that anxiety is funny, but sometimes it helps to laugh at ourselves.

In 1977, Mel Brooks did just that, with his movie “High Anxiety,” starring Brooks as a wildly neurotic shrink and Cloris Leachman as his mustachioed, militaristic nurse at the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous.

Now, either you think that’s funny or you’re already writing me a letter. But I speak from experience.

I’m an anxious person, and according to the American Psychiatric Association, 40 percent of Americans said last year that they were more anxious than the year before.

I was an anxious kid, and teen, and adult. I come by my anxiety honestly, from my nervous parents and grandparents. Most days, I do breathing exercises before I open my eyes in the morning.

How do you know if you have anxiety? Do you have a pulse and a moral conscience? You’re in.

Officially, according to psychotherapist Linda Hubbard in an article on the

Mayo Clinic website, you might have trouble concentrating, you may feel tense or restless, or experience muscle tension or headaches or lightheaded or sleeplessness.

Anxiety treatment has become big business. As I write this — case in point — I just got a pop-up ad from an online health letter selling “proven stress-busting techniques.” The barrage of anti-anxiety messaging is endless. We have to be careful consumers.

I offer these words to commiserate and say you are not alone. These are troubling times, and nearly everyone I know is feeling some stress or anxiety. It is permissible now to discuss these feelings openly, and there is relief in sharing.

Now anti-anxiety tactics and treatments are freely marketed and talked about and posted.

A nd its treatment is big business. Anti-anxiety messaging is endless.

Today’s society and culture have produced more anxiety, and more discussions of anxiety online, on TV and in social media. Anxiety has become monetized, from advertisements for medications to promotions for apps that control anxiety and foods and selfhelp books that promise to ease our emotional pain. Since the pandemic, we have had good reason to feel anxious. Our peace of mind is under attack, by everything from rising waters and emerging viruses to political dysfunction and the assault on our democratic values.

degree.

For those of us whose anxiety is triggered by the confederacy of dunces who have taken the political stage in Washington, eventually we can vote, but day to day, we can turn off the cacophony of news and social media that surely make us feel worse. I read a few newspapers to keep informed, but I no longer watch much TV, unless it makes me laugh (in a good way).

Throw everything at the problem and see what works. But don’t try to tough it out. Be selective in using the internet. Let social media be your tool and not the other way around.

There is no real history tracking anxiety. Maybe Shakespeare was anxious; he did create Hamlet, one of the most deeply anxious characters in literature. Maybe cowboys who rode the range felt stress about the roundups. Perhaps our storied astronauts suffered these symptoms.

It’s worse to suffer in silence, but that was always the expectation, especially for men. Soldiers who suffered debilitating anxiety in World War I were considered “shell-shocked,” and ostracized.

I am a foot soldier in the struggle with anxiety. What works for me? I walk outdoors as often and as far as I can, weather permitting. The steps, one by one, for a mile or two, seem to ease tension.

I bought one of the apps that promise to reduce anxiety. It offers really boring stories read by monotonic narrators, which help you unwind and even fall asleep. The app also features yoga exercises and various sounds like rain on a roof and light piano music and ocean waves. In my own experience, all of these work, sometimes and to some

Each of us, in our own lives, can find reasonable and healthy ways to reduce anxiety. Many of them are free, like turning away from devices and toward people. When we need professional help, we can find it. Medications work for millions of people.

It doesn’t hurt to have a laugh or two each day. Comedians like Sarah Silverman and the late Robin Williams carved careers out of their struggles with anxiety. The Apple TV series “Shrinking” has some laugh-out-loud moments. Maybe start by streaming a copy of “High Anxiety” and checking into the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous for a few hours.

Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

RANDi KREiss MoNiQUE DARRisAW-AKiL

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The concern about a county civilian militia

the recent controversy surrounding Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s creation of an armed civilian unit has sparked intense debate.

Blakeman unveiled a plan last March to deputize gun-owning residents for what he termed “the protection of human life and property during an emergency.”

Democratic lawmakers in Nassau County have now taken legal action, filing a lawsuit in State Supreme Court against what they describe as an “illegal, taxpayer-funded civilian militia.” The concerns focus on not only the legality of the initiative, but also on Blakeman’s refusal to provide clear and essential details about the program.

While opinions on the concept of a civilian militia may vary, what should trouble every resident, regardless of political affiliation, is the disturbing lack of transparency surrounding this initiative. It is not merely the existence of the militia that is at issue, but the secrecy and lack of accountability with which it has been formed and implemented.

As representatives of the people, these lawmakers have a duty to ensure that government actions are conducted openly and lawfully. Their inability to obtain basic information about this unit — who is being recruited, what their training entails, the weapons they will carry, and the total cost to taxpayers — should alarm everyone, regardless of where they stand on the issue of deputizing civilians.

State law in New York is explicit in

letters

defining who can wield police powers: only professional, sworn law enforcement officers. By contrast, the county’s unit consists of volunteers who are required only to be licensed gun owners and complete 12 hours of classroom and firearms training.

This falls far short of the rigorous training required of sworn officers, raising critical concerns about competency and public safety. If these volunteers are granted the authority to use deadly force and make arrests, then their selection, training and oversight should be subject to the highest levels of scrutiny.

Blakeman has attempted to dismiss the lawsuit as “frivolous” and an attack on the volunteers, many of whom are retired military and law enforcement personnel. But his response sidesteps the central issue. No one is questioning the dedication or service history of these individuals. What is being questioned is the manner in which the program has been conceived and implemented — behind closed doors, without legislative approval, and without adequate public oversight.

The county has stated that these deputies will only be deployed in emergencies to protect critical infrastructure, not to patrol streets or manage protests. But without a transparent, codified framework governing their deployment, there are no guarantees that those boundaries will be respected. History has shown that when emergency powers are granted without sufficient oversight, they can be misused or expanded beyond their original intent.

Has Peter King forgotten Jan. 6?

To the Editor:

I just read Peter King’s column in last week’s Herald, “An inauguration that was decidedly different,” and it made me sick. But King is correct in stating that this inauguration was different. Unlike President Trump four years ago, President Biden was there to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power. There was no denial of who won the election. Biden upheld our country’s grand tradition.

On Jan. 6, 2021, police officers were killed and injured by people doing Mr. Trump’s bidding. The lives of Vice President Mike Pence, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and all of the members of Congress were at risk. The brave Capitol Police did their duty to protect them, and the thanks they get is a president pardoning their attackers and the people they protected turning their backs on them.

I’d warn Mr. King: Trump’s presidency is a moment in time, but eventually it will pass, and history will not be kind to those like you. Your grand-

Nassau County is not lacking for law enforcement resources. With roughly 2,600 sworn officers, the Nassau County Police Department is the 12th-largest local police force in the country. There is also an existing structure for civilian involvement — the Nassau County Auxiliary Police and the County Community Emergency Response Team, both of which operate unarmed and under professional supervision. Given these resources, what specific gap is the militia intended to fill?

County residents deserve answers. How were these individuals selected? What specific criteria were used? What safeguards exist to ensure their proper conduct? What is the financial burden on taxpayers? Until these questions are answered, the program lacks legitimacy. The lack of transparency is not a partisan issue — it is a fundamental issue of governance. When taxpayer money is being used to fund an initiative that involves armed civilians exercising government-sanctioned power, full disclosure should — must — be the bare minimum. If the program is truly necessary, it should withstand public scrutiny and meet the highest standards of accountability.

Blakeman and his administration must provide the information being sought by community members and lawmakers alike. Without this transparency, concerns about the legality and safety of the program will only continue to grow. The people of Nassau County deserve to know exactly what is being done in their name and with their money. Anything less is unacceptable.

opinions

Long Island gets shortchanged on transportation funding

over a decade ago, the Long island Regional Planning council recognized a critical issue: Long island’s transportation funding and planning processes were failing to meet the growing demands of our region. in response, we proposed the creation of a dedicated nassau-suffolk Metropolitan Planning organization. Unfortunately, that never happened. now, 10 years later, the situation has worsened, and investment in transportation on Long island continues to be shortchanged.

Long island’s share of transportation funding has steadily declined, a trend that has become more alarming over time. today, the region receives just 6 percent of the money allocated by the new York Metropolitan transportation council, which primarily serves the interests of new York city. Long island is forced to compete for resources with the city, leaving our region underfunded and unable to meet its infrastructure needs. this funding disparity is particularly troubling given Long island’s economic significance. As new York state’s secondlargest economic engine, Long island

plays a crucial role in its financial health. each year, Long island sends nearly $15 billion more in tax payments to Albany than it gets back, and an additional $27 billion to Washington. the state’s tax imbalance with Long island has doubled over the past decade, worsening an already unsustainable situation. if left unaddressed, it threatens Long island’s economy and its ability to sustain residents’ high quality of life. the consequences of this inequity are visible in our daily lives. congested highways, deteriorating bridges and inadequate public transportation aren’t just inconvenient; they hinder economic growth, erode quality of life and compromise public safety. crucial projects aimed at addressing these issues — from modernizing the Long island Rail Road to alleviating notorious traffic bottlenecks — remain sidelined due to a lack of funding and prioritization. the current system is failing, and the need for change has never been more urgent. one of the most effective ways to address this problem is by establishing a nassau-suffolk MPo, which would allow Long island to apply directly for federal transportation funds. it would bypass the bureaucratic delays at the state level, ensuring that funding is allocated to

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projects that best meet our region’s needs. smaller areas, such as ithaca, have had their own MPos for years and have benefited significantly from direct access to funding. Long island, with a population of nearly 3 million and an economy that rivals that of many states, deserves to be treated with the same attention and respect.

nd crucial projects remain sidelined due to a lack of funding and prioritization.

the need for a nassausuffolk MPo extends beyond simply fixing roads and bridges. it’s about taking control of our region’s future and ensuring that its transportation infrastructure supports longterm economic growth and innovation. in today’s global economy, transportation is the backbone of a thriving region. Without a dedicated MPo, Long island’s potential for growth is stifled, and the region risks falling further behind in an increasingly competitive landscape.

the Long island Regional Planning council first raised this issue because we understood the long-term consequences of continued disinvestment. over the past decade, those consequences have become painfully clear. our transportation infrastructure is deteriorating, and other critical areas of need, such as affordable housing and the modernization of water systems, roads, bridges and power grids, remain neglect-

Letters

kids will have to explain why their grandfather sided with a man who tried to take down democracy instead of standing up to him.

Rest assured, many of us will never forget what happened on Jan. 6. We will continue to fight the good fight. At the same time, career politicians like Mr. King will sacrifice their integrity (if they ever had any) to support a man who wants to be king.

Vincent MAstRotA Sea Cliff

Whose golden age?

to the editor:

After reading congressman emeritus King’s op-ed, i have reservations about his lauding President t rump. i wrote trump before he took office, saying that it would be groundbreaking if he became the president of all the people. His legacy would be the destruction of the partisanship that is slowly strangling the UsA. i received a very hopeful reply signed by the president-elect.

As of today, i realize this was a dream. i and many like me, ordinary hardworking Americans, have been scammed.

King defends most of t rump’s and his minions’ draconian attacks on the very roots of what’s left of our republic. Revenge, and creating turmoil and anxiety, are the order of the day. Religion is being weaponized, and censorship, which trump says we will now be free of, is being spread through the agencies of government, right down to teachers in our schools.

Being poor, with skin of a different tone, dispossessed or a peaceful immigrant, is no longer acceptable. t he norm will soon become the knock on the door, the presentation of “your papers” and a disappearance in the night. History proves that while we’re not there yet, we are heading down this slippery slope.

King writes of trump’s new “golden age.” o n that term we agree, but we define it differently. the only gold i see is his greedy cadre of rich men grabbing all the power they can lay their hands on. t hey know that power breeds money. t hey are pigs at the trough.

King writes that the functions he attended in Washington were filled with “extraordinary excitement, enthusiasm and hope.” Yet the president is but three weeks in office, and many who supported him are reacting

ed. these issues require both state and federal support, and Long island’s fair share of transportation funding is a critical first step in addressing them. thankfully, there is hope for change. thanks to the leadership of state sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblyman steve stern, legislation has been introduced to establish a nassau-suffolk MPo this is a significant step toward securing that transportation funding. it would give our region the ability to prioritize projects that are critical to our local economy and residents, ensuring that Long island’s transportation needs are no longer overshadowed by the priorities of new York city or other areas of the state.

the establishment of a nassau-suffolk MPo wouldn’t be just a policy change — it would be a commitment to the future of our region. Long island deserves safe roads, efficient public transit and infrastructure that supports economic growth and opportunity. We have waited long enough. the time for action is now.

Long island has the potential to be a leading force in the state’s economy, but that potential cannot be realized without the right infrastructure. establishing a nassau-suffolk MPo is a critical step in ensuring that Long island receives the resources it needs to thrive. it’s time for our region to earn its fair share.

John D. Cameron Jr. is chairman of the Long Island Regional Planning Council.

Framework by Tim Baker

adversely to the confusion, disappointment and the “shock and awe” of his policies and his erratic statements. Many are feeling buyer’s remorse.

King is an intelligent man who did much for his constituents when he served the public. it is difficult to comprehend how he cannot sense that this president is quickly on his way to

becoming a clear and present danger to the republic King served. King and i probably both pray, in our own ways, for the same things, a better country and a peaceful world. it’s good to dream!

At the annual month-long celebration of Black history — Freeport

MARK c nUccio Bellmore

JoHn D. Cameron Jr.