Franklin square/elmont
HERALD
Third annual hunt draws a crowd
Nearly 1,000 participants and more than three dozen volunteers gathered at Elmont Road Park last Saturday for the Elmont Cultural Center’s third annual egg hunt, celebrating Easter and the arrival of spring. Meera Empowerment, a nonprofit focused on giving back to the community and encouraging young people to get involved, partnered with the cultural center for the second straight year to host the event. The festivities included a visit from the Easter Bunny, face painting and relay races, and families and children from across the area took part. Story, more photos, Page 10.
Jon Johnson shapes future of the youth
By HAIlEY FUlMER hfulmer@liherald.com
At Elmont Memorial High School, a quiet but powerful movement is shaping the next generation of young men. One of the leaders at the center of it is Jon Johnson Sr., of the Men of Elmont, a grass-roots mentoring initiative dedicated to guiding students from seventh grade through high school.
Meeting weekly from October through June, the program brings together about 30 students every Wednesday afternoon in the school library. But Men of Elmont is more than just a meeting — it’s a structured, values-driven brotherhood. At its core is the acronym LDRSHIP, standing for loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage — principles that participants carry with them in school and beyond.
Jon Johnson has been one of the driving forces for the MOE program at the high school.
of the program since it was launched in October 2016, works alongside a dedicated leadership team that includes guidance counselor Mike Fleury and mathematics teacher Joseph Meli. Together, they mentor students not just academically but personally, helping them navigate the transition to manhood.
“This is about guiding young men through life,” said Johnson, “We’re not their parents, but we are adult mentors they can rely on.”
CURTIS JoHNSoN Mentor, Men of Elmont
The program regularly hosts events like Breaking Bread, in which students sit down over a shared meal with guest speakers from a variety of professions. These sessions, sometimes held jointly with the school’s female mentoring group, Leading Ladies of Elmont, allow students to interact with accomplished people and hear firsthand about their journeys to success.
Johnson, 58, an adult volunteer leader, who has been a part
Johnson’s path to mentorContinued on page 8
Thomas/Herald photos
News brief
Rivera found guilty in lesser murder charge
According to the Queens District Attorney’s office, Guy Rivera was convicted of aggravated manslaughter in the first degree. Additionally, he has a conviction of first-degree attempted murder and was acquitted of murder in the first degree.
Sentencing has been scheduled for April 27. Rivera faces up to 90 years in prison.
The case, presided over by Michael Aloise in Queens Criminal Court in Kew Gardens, concluded following a three-week trial. Closing arguments were delivered March 31.
“Shooting a law enforcement officer and killing that officer should be a capital offense,” said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is the Republican candidate for governor.
“The laws of our state need to be amended so that legal loopholes do not frustrate the fullest prosecution and punishment of cop killers. Our hearts go out to the Diller family on this very disappointing verdict.”
Prosecutors alleged Rivera shot Diller at close range during a traffic stop, killing the 31-year-old officer.
Authorities said Rivera then attempted to shoot Diller’s partner, Sasha Rosen, leading to an additional charge of attempted first-degree murder.
Congresswoman Gillen secures push for TPS vote
By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com
Congresswoman Laura Gillen announced that her legislation to extend Temporary Protected Status for Haitians for three years has garnered the bipartisan support necessary to force a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“I’m proud that my bill to extend TPS for Haitian Americans now has the bipartisan support needed to force a vote on this dire issue in Congress,” Gillen said. “Thank you to my colleagues, Representatives Lawler and Pressley, for their efforts to advance this legislation. Since taking office, I have fought tirelessly to extend TPS for Haitian recipients after the Administration refused to do so.”
Rivera pleaded not guilty. His defense argued the shooting was unintentional and occurred during a struggle.
Diller’s death marked the first onduty NYPD killing in two years and drew widespread attention across New York City.
–Hailey Fulmer
Gillen also noted that advancing this bill to a vote marks a crucial step in safeguarding the lives of the Haitian community nationwide.
Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, echoing Gillen’s call for action, said, “At a moment that calls for compassion and clear leadership, the Trump administration has chosen the opposite,” she said in a written statement. “Its actions are destabilizing communities and forcing families into dangerous, impossible choices.”
Solages further explains that TPS is designed for situations like these, especially when returning to one’s home country would endanger lives. She applauds the congresswoman and U.S State Representative Ayanna Pressley for their leadership in gathering the necessary signature to compel a vote.
A discharge petition in the House requires 218 signatures to move forward. Once that threshold is met, a member may notify the House of their intent to call up the motion after seven legislative days. The Speaker is then required to schedule a floor vote within two legislative days.
Since taking office, Gillen has been a leading advocate for TPS protections for Haitians. In February 2025, she introduced a bipartisan bill directing the Department of Homeland Security
to designate Haiti for TPS for 18 months starting August 3, 2025. In June, after the Administration abruptly ended humanitarian parole for Haitian citizens, she urged DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to reinstate the program. Later that year, Gillen supported legislation to crack down on criminal gangs and corrupt officials destabilizing Haiti and signed onto an amicus brief challenging the Administration’s termination of Haiti’s TPS designation. In January 2026, Gillen joined a bipartisan letter urging the Administration to extend TPS for Haitian nationals before its February 3 expiration and celebrated a federal court ruling that preserved TPS protections. She has also met with White House officials multiple times to advocate for Haitian families legally residing in the U.S. Gillen’s latest success with the discharge petition marks a significant step toward a full House vote and emphasizes growing bipartisan concern for the safety and stability of Haitians in the United States.
Courtesy New York Police Department
Guy Rivera was found guilty of firstdegree aggravated manslaughter in the killing of NYPD officer Jonathan Diller, above, in 2024.
Courtesy Congresswoman Laura Gillen’s office Congresswoman Laura Gillen of New York’s 4th Congressional District has secured enough support to advance legislation extending TPS.
Rescusing Families earns a spot in parade
By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com
As thousands of spectators lined the streets for one of Long Island’s largest parades this spring, a Franklin Square–based nonprofit used the moment not just to celebrate, but to raise awareness for a mission focused on serving families and individuals with disabilities through home renovations.
Rescuing Families was chosen this year as the local charity to be honored in the parade. Co-founder Gina Centauro said the selection process was not easy, as they had to apply fo a number of years until they were finally selected this year.
“We’ve been applying to them probably, for about seven years,” she said. “We were able to present in 2024 but we weren’t chosen for the parade. Then this year, last year, 2025 they called us back.”
The annual St. Patrick’s parade selects three charities each year — one local, one national and one from Ireland.
Some of the organization’s projects involve extensive construction, including reconfiguring bathrooms and widening spaces for wheelchair access.
The nonprofit has operated for about a decade and relies heavily on volunteers, donations and community fundraising efforts. Among its most consistent initiatives are weekend resale events, where donated clothing and household goods are sorted and sold to fund construction projects.
Kristin Young, a volunteer who has supported the organization for years, said the parade offered a wonderful opportunity for public recognition.
“It was really rewarding and wonderful to see,” Young said. “Gina and Vinny just give everything of themselves.”
While the public appearance helped bring attention to the group’s work, much of Rescuing Families’
impact happens behind the scenes. Volunteers assist with everything from fundraising to hands-on construction, with some skilled consutuction workers donating their time to complete renovations.
The cost of materials and labor remains a challenge, particularly in recent years, Young said, noting that rising construction prices since COVID, but she added that she is hopeful that increased publicity will bring more volunteers and resources.
Still, the nonprofit continues to expand its reach. Earlier this year, it launched a television series, “Family to the Rescue,” which follows renovation projects and the families they benefit.
News briefs
John Street School students sang songs inspired by cultures around the world on March 25.
Spirit week strikes a chord for students
John Street School marked Music in Our Schools Month with a musicthemed Spirit Week from March 23–27, organized by the school’s music department.
The week opened with Music Genre Monday, when students dressed as rock, pop and country artists or other favorite performers. On Music T-Shirt Tuesday, students wore concert, musical and band apparel.
Wednesday’s theme, Mr. Worldwide Wednesday, was inspired by Pitbull and encouraged students to dress in styles
representing music from cultures around the world. On Thursday, students celebrated “Welcome to the ’60s” by wearing tie-dye or outfits inspired by the decade. The week concluded with JSS Music Shirt Friday, as students wore school music gear or spirit wear. In addition to themed dress-up days, the celebration included karaoke and dance activities organized by music teacher Alexa Gottesman, complementing each day’s theme.
–Hailey
Fulmer
Centauro said the television series was created to explain the organization’s work and highlight the experiences of the families it serves. She and her husband, Vinny, produced the show, which was 10 years in the making, to give those families a voice and help viewers better understand both the challenges and triumphs associated with disabilities.
The program is carried by PBS, which leases the series but does not pay the organization, she said, adding that the exposure allows it to reach a wide audience. It was released in January with six episodes, and the organization is currently working on a second season expected to air in 2027.
Polk Street students forecast the weather
Polk Street School’s third grade classes enjoyed an engaging and educational weather assembly with meteorologist John Marshall on March 31. With 25 years of on-air experience, Mr. Marshall shared insights on the seasons, different types of clouds, hurricanes and how forecasts are created.
Students also had the exciting opportunity to step into the role of weathercasters themselves, using a mobile green screen to deliver their own practice forecasts.
Courtesy Gina Centauro
The Rescuing Families group displays their banner during the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Franklin Square, highlighting their decade of service to families with disabilities.
–Hailey Fulmer
Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District Polk Street School third graders watch meteorologist John Marshall explain different types of clouds and how forecasts are made during a weather assembly.
Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District
News briefs
Elmont man arrested in assault, hit-and-run
An Elmont man has been arrested in connection with two separate assault incidents that occurred in 2024 and 2025, NCPD said.
According to NCPD, Jerald Lowe, 31, was involved in a domestic dispute with a 35-year-old woman on June 14, 2024, at about noon. During a verbal argument, Lowe allegedly punched the victim on the left side of her face, causing substantial pain, swelling and bruising.
fracture as a result of the crash.
Police said Lowe exited his vehicle, removed personal belongings and fled the scene on foot without contacting authorities.
1
8
4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.)
In a separate incident on May 2, 2025, at about 7:45 p.m., Lowe was driving an unregistered and uninsured Toyota Solara southbound on Lincoln Street at a high rate of speed when he failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling eastbound on Rosalind Avenue, police said.
The impact caused Lowe’s vehicle to mount the sidewalk, where it struck a 58-year-old female pedestrian from behind. The victim suffered a spinal
Lowe was arrested on March 31, 2026, at about 5:50 a.m. at his residence on Marshall Street. During the investigation, NCPD discovered he also has an active warrant in Georgia for possession of a firearm, obstruction of law enforcement and reckless conduct.
He is charged with second-degree assault, thirddegree assault (domestic incident), fourth-degree criminal mischief, leaving the scene of an incident with serious injury, and aggravated unlicensed operation.
Lowe was scheduled to be arraigned March 31, 2026, at Nassau County Superior Court in Mineola.
Woman arrested in $50K Nassau theft spree
A Brooklyn woman has been arrested in connection with a series of larcenies at retail stores across Nassau County, police said.
According to the Nassau County Police Department, Magdalena Samsin, 41, is accused of entering more than 27 retail establishments between August 2025 and April 2026. Police said she selected various items totaling more than $50,000, passed all points of purchase, and exited the stores without paying. The stolen merchandise reportedly included clothing, electronics, and household goods. Investigators said Samsin often used the same method at multiple locations, lead-
ing detectives to track patterns across the county.
Following an extensive investigation, detectives located Samsin and took her into custody without incident on April 3 at about 8:11 p.m., police said. She is charged with second-degree grand larceny and was arraigned April 4 at First District Court in Hempstead. Authorities said they are reviewing surveillance footage and receipts from the stores to determine if additional charges could be warranted.
–Hailey Fulmer
–Hailey Fulmer
Jerald lowe
Magdalena Sa MS in
Chocolate expos offers sweets to Coliseum
The Chocolate Expo drew a large crowd to Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale on March 22, with attendees filling the venue throughout the day.
The one-day event featured more than 80 vendors offering chocolate, baked goods and specialty foods. While chocolate was the focus, many vendors also sold non-chocolate items such as cheeses, matcha tea, honey, and beverages.
The expo included live demonstrations, interactive presentations, and family-friendly activities. A children’s area featured face painting, balloon twisting and balloon art by Robbie Furman, who created hats and animal shapes for attendees.
A balloon sculpture of a horse and carriage was on display near the entrance highlighted television show “Little House on the Prairie.” The Western themed show ran nine seasons from 1974.
Television personalities, Dean Butler, Patrick Labyorteaux and Todd Bridges from “Little House on the Prairie” were the celebrity guests and took photos with visitors. During the event there was a special panel with moderator asking the cast questions. The panel drew a large audience.
The Chocolate Expo, which has been held since 2012, is part of a recurring
Gooseberry Grove, a pop-up shop offering homemade ice cream, pastries and donuts, was one of more than 80 vendors.
series that brings food vendors and attendees together at venues across the region.
–Stacy Driks
and
Join today and watch her: Make
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Dean Butler, left, Patrick Labyorteaux
Todd Bridges were celebrity guests at the event. During their time there, they spoke during a panel discussion about their time on “Little House on the Prairie,” which aired from 1974 to 1983. Bridges also starred in “Diff’rent Strokes.”
ELIZABETH POIROT
WEST HEMPSTEAD Senior Lacrosse
ONE OF NASSAU COUNTY’S most prolific scorers, Poirot shares the Herald’s 2026 High School Lacrosse preview cover with Seaford’s Brian Falk. Poirot earned Honorable Mention All-County honors last spring after dominating the scoresheet for a second straight season and helping the Rams to 11 wins. As a junior, she racked up 77 goals to go along with 38 assists. This after in 2024 the dynamic attack scored 74 goals and had 25 assists.
games to watch
Friday, April 10
Softball: Plainedge at Mineola
Softball: Plainview at Carey 10
Softball: Roosevelt at Malverne 10 a.m.
Softball: Sewanhaka at
Softball: East Meadow at Farmingdale
Baseball: Kennedy at Calhoun
Baseball: Long Beach at South Side
Baseball: Glen Cove at Hewlett
Baseball: Garden City at MacArthur
Boys Lacrosse: Wantagh at North Shore
Girls Lacrosse: Oceanside at Wantagh
Girls Lacrosse: Plainedge at Lynbrook 11
Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Elmont 5 p.m.
Saturday, April 11
Girls Lacrosse: East Meadow at Plainedge 9 a.m.
Softball: V.S. Central at V.S. South 10 a.m.
Softball: North Shore at Hewlett 10 a.m.
Softball: Freeport at East Rockaway 10 a.m.
Softball: Massapequa at Oceanside 10 a.m.
Softball: Elmont at West Hempstead 10 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Locust Valley at Seaford 2 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last year. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
HERALD SPORTS
Ace, balanced lineup sparks Carey
By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com
Following a 10-9 record and quarterfinal loss to Mepham in the Nassau Class AA softball playoffs, Carey will lean heavily on senior pitcher/third baseman Andrea Arias this spring.
Arias earned All-County honors in 2025 and was 15th Team All-State. She leads a young group that happens to have lots of experience.
“When she went, we went,” coach Anthony Turco said of Arias. “I think she was second in the County Player of the Year voting last year, and I think she should’ve got it. She’ll be my three or four batter and can hit to all fields and for power. I’m really, really surprised that colleges haven’t really recruited her at a higher level.”
Arias is one of the team’s four captains. Joining her is senior left fielder Emily Almachi, senior shortstop/third baseman Paige Agate and senior center fielder Devon Barley.
“Just their leadership qualities and experience, [as well as] them each being able to bring something different to the table,” Turco said. “I think they are four different softball players. [Amongst them] You’re talking 14 years of experience and they bring a different leadership role.”
The lineup features a healthy mix of power, contact and speed. It’s the versatility that Carey ‘hasn’t had in a while,’ Turco said.
“I think our lineup one through six or seven is going to be really solid,” he said. “Barley is a lefty slapper with speed and will lead off. [Junior second baseman] Madison Bourne is another lefty with speed, hitting second. Agate, an All-County player, will hit third and gives us great contact. Then you’ve got Arias for power, Ava Dubin [junior EH], who can hit for power, and Almachi, who can go gap-to-gap. Brianna Roberts [senior first baseman] adds power as well. We’re pretty balanced.
“We want speed at the top to get on base, then contact hitters to move runners, and power in the middle,”
Turco added. “But I mix things up depending on who’s hot. I’ve even hit some of our speed players lower in the lineup because you only lead off once, so it’s about maximizing at-bats.”
On March 26, Carey earned its first victory in Conference 2 with a 10-9 win over Farmingdale in comeback fashion. The Seahawks jumped out to an early two-run lead, but that was quickly erased with a seven-run inning from Farmingdale.
“We chipped away at the lead and tied it up in the sixth inning, and gave it right back by giving up a two-run home run to go down 9-7,” Turco said.
“In the top of the seventh, Barely led off with a hit and Bourne followed that up with a walk. Arias hit a three-run home run. [Then sophomore] Kristen Peers closed out the seventh for the win.”
The Seahawks beat East Meadow, 7-1, March 31, for their second conference win in as many games. Almache and Roberts both drove in a pair of runs to back the pitching of Arias.
“Team-first,” Turco said regarding the hopeful identity. “Playing for each other and having an approach every pitch, every at-bat. That’s something we’ve really emphasized.”
Paul Grassini/Herald Kristen Peers got the win in relief in Carey’s 10-9 come-from-behind victory over Farmingdale March 26.
L.I. Association hosts state transport chief
Presentation by DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez ranges from speeding to potholes
By NOAH PERETZ nperetz@liherald.com
The Long Island Association hosted state Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez as a guest speaker last week. Dominguez spoke about Gov. Kathy Hochul’s fiscal year 2027 executive budget and policy proposals for the DOT.
Appearing at LIA headquarters in Melville on March 31, Dominguez explained that Hochul’s administration matched the federal funding for New York state’s transportation needs from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021 with a five-year, $35 billion plan. Hochul added $800 million to the plan last year to offset the cost of tariffs and inflation.
“Our federal dollars are expiring on Sept. 30, which presents a unique challenge,” Dominguez said. “We need to make sure that we are positioning New York for the next level of transportation funding.”
She detailed Hochul’s proposed spending plan, which totals $260 billion. Federal funding is down 11.4 percent, or $10.3 billion, and state operating funds have increased by $157 billion. The state is expecting $17 billion more in state revenue over the next two years than earlier estimates.
“The governor is committed to economic growth and making sure there is a social safety net, and funding that social safety net across the board without increasing taxes,” Dominguez said. “In sum, the 2027 Executive Budget successfully balances two simultaneous realities that we have real momentum here in New York, and addressing the volatility that we know is ahead.”
The budget plan includes automated work-zone speed enforcement with new
speed cameras. Dominguez noted that some drivers have been speeding at over 100 miles per hour through work zones, according to the cameras.
The budget proposes deployment of the cameras on non-controlled-access highways, like Sunrise Highway. It also proposes protections for highway maintenance workers against violent assault.
Dominguez also touched on Hochul’s plan to lower the cost of car insurance.
The plan proposes changes to the state’s auto insurance laws that will punish perpetrators of staged car crashes.
The spending plan also includes funding for filling potholes on main roadways. “We are on a blitz statewide addressing potholes,” Dominguez said. It proposes investments of $107 million for paving on Long Island, including 50 miles of the Northern State Parkway and 35 miles of Sunrise Highway.
Action Long Island representative Michael Rodin suggested more improvements he wanted to see. “We want to make sure public transit is a part of the DOT’s agenda in the future,” he said. “We want roads to be able to accommodate buses as well as more cars — a lot of people take public transit to work.”
When the presentation was open for questions, Dominguez addressed a concern about independent contractors’ coverage under the anti-assault provisions in the budget. “The worker assault provision covers state employees as well as independent contractors,” she said.
“We need to make sure elected officials understand that transit and the lives of transit workers are important, so they fund initiatives to help these efforts and these people,” Marc Herbst, executive director of the Long Island Contractors Association, said. “If we don’t ask, they don’t respond.”
Noah Peretz/Herald
DOT representatives, including Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, center right, made a presentation to the Long Island Association.
Leading the next generation of young men
ship began when he was growing up in South Jamaica, Queens, where he had mentors who emphasized the importance of giving back to young people when he became an adult. A 1988 graduate of SUNY Old Westbury, he studied business management with a minor in marketing.
“I come from the model ‘each one teach one,’” he said. “That’s what we do — pay it forward.”
In addition to his work with Men of Elmont, Johnson is also president of the Elmont Cardinal Sports Club, which has been around for more than 50 years and is dedicated to serving youth by offering them opportunities to get involved in sports. Johnson has been active with the organization for 24 years.
Johnson also chairs. Meeting biweekly, the club provides a space for fathers, uncles and mentors to discuss life’s challenges and support one another.
In an interview with the Herald last year, Tiffany Capers, an Elmont Board of Education trustee, praised the impact of the Dad’s Club. “In that room, those men are all brothers and mentors to each other,” Capers said, crediting its success to consistency, engagement and a welcoming environment.
I come from the model ‘each one, teach one,’” he said. “That’s what we do — pay it forward
Men of Elmont members maintain a high school graduation rate of roughly 98 percent, with most going on to college, trade school or military service. Even after graduation, they remain connected, living out the group’s motto, “MOE for life.” Alumni frequently return as guest speakers, creating a full-circle mentorship experience.
Jon Johnson sr. mentor, Men of Elmont
“They come back and stand in front of the same seats they once sat in,” Johnson said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
The program has also inspired broader community engagement through the Elmont PTSA Dad’s Club, launched in 2023, which
Johnson’s leadership has not gone unnoticed among his peers. Fellow Men of Elmont mentor Curtis Johnson highlighted his friend’s influence.
“Jon Johnson has been one of the driving forces for the MOE program at the high school,” Curtis Johnson said. “His commitment to the boys and team is obvious.”
Touching on “MOE for life,” he added that he and Jon Johnson keep track of the boys even after they graduate, checking in to see how they’re doing on Zoom. “It’s a privilege to work alongside of him and the other adult mentors to help make a difference in the life of a young man,” Curtis Johnson said.
For Jon, the reward isn’t recognition — it’s impact. “The fact that we can help young men navigate manhood,” he said, “that’s priceless.”
invites you and your family to visit the NATION’S ONLY MUSEUM OF DISABILITY
Come learn about local disability rights pioneer Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr. and explore over 125 artifacts highlighting the fight for equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
The museum provides an inclusive, fully accessible experience for all visitors and is the perfect place to spend a fun and educational day with your family. School field trips and group tours welcome.
Courtesy Jon Johnson Sr.
Jon Johnson Sr. is a tireless advocate for the young men of elmont, helping lead a number of initiatives, including the men of elmont and the elmont dad’s Club.
BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE
WEDNESDAY APRIL 22
6:00-9:00PM
The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road
Produced B RICHHNNE
BUSINESS & TRANSACTIONAL
JOSEPH G. MILIZIO
Managing Partner
Vishnick McGovern Milizio, LLP
RALPH ROSELLA
Office Managing Member Bond, Schoeneck & King
CORPORATE & SECURITIES
DAVID F. DURSO
Partner
Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.
DEBT SOLUTIONS
LESLIE H. TAYNE
Founder & Managing Director Tayne Law Group, P.C.
ELDER LAW
BRIAN A. TULLY
Founder & Managing Partner Tully Law Group, P.C.
ROCHELLE L. VERRON, ESQ. Founding & Managing Partner Verron Law Group, P.C.
RONALD FATOULLAH, ESQ.
Chair Elder Law Group & Partner Trusts & Estates
Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP
EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS LITIGATION
DANIELÉ D. DE VOE
Partner
Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano, PLLC
JEFFREY BASSO
Partner Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP
MICHEAL POROPAT
Partner Stockman & Poropat, PPLC
ESTATE PLANNING & ELDER LAW
RUSSEL MORGAN, ESQ Founding Partner Morgan Legal Group, P.C.
STEPHEN J. SILVERBERG
Founding Attorney Law Office of Stephen J. Silverberg, P.C.
STEPHANIE D’ANGELO, ESQ. Principal D’Angelo Law Associates, P.C.
WENDY K. GOIDEL, ESQ. Founder & Principal Goidel Law Group, LLC
FAMILY LAW/PRINCIPAL PARTNER
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Raymond A. Tierney, Suffolk County District Attorney
ALEXANDER E. SKLAVOS, ESQ.
Founder & Principal Attorney Sklavos Law Group, P.C.
JOSEPH TROTTI Partner Vishnick McGovern Milizio, LLP
MICHAEL ALBER, ESQ Partner The Alber Firm, P.C.
FINANCE, INSURANCE & LEGAL AFFAIRS
ALAN B. HODISH, ESQ. Founding Principal Law Offices of Alan B. Hodish, LLC
HEALTHCARE & CANNABIS LAW
ANDREW P. COOPER, ESQ., LLM Cannabis & Psychedelics Attorney Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP
INJURY & CAR ACCIDENT LAW
CHRISSY GRIGOROPOULOSPELEYTAY, ESQ. Founding Attorney Grigor Law Injury & Car Accident Lawyers
IP & TRADEMARK
ROSS PITCOFF
Founder & Managing Partner Pitcoff Law Group, P.C.
LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW
ANDREW J. TURRO Shareholder Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
JOSEPH L. CIACCIO Partner Napoli Shkolnik, PLLC
NICHOLAS PAPAIN
Member & Director
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C.
PERSONAL INJURY
DOROTHY RENZ Partner Duffy & Duffy, P.C.
JASON A. GREENBERG Founder & Managing Attorney Law Offices of Jason Greenberg, P.C.
LEONARD J. WIENER Associate Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
ROSS L. SCHILLER, ESQ. Founder & Managing Attorney Ross L. Schiller & Associates, P.C.
REAL ESTATE
BRIAN S. STOLAR Partner
Harris Beach Murtha
BRYAN P. MCCROSSEN Partner Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran
ED PUERTA
Partner
Nixon Peabody, LLP
GIL ADLAD
Attorney at Law Law Office of Gilad Adlad
TOM MEALIFFE Partner Nixon Peabody, LLP
RISING STARS
ALEXIS EPSTEIN Associate Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea and LoTurco, LLP
BROOKE MCDONALD Associate Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP
JACOB BLOOM, ESQ. Attorney Miller & Caggiano, LLP
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY
ANDREW B. WOOLF, ESQ. Founding Partner Klee Woolf Coldman & Filpi, LLP
TAX CERTIORARI LITIGATION
Schroder & Strom, LLP
TRUST & ESTATE LITIGATION
ANDREW P. NITKEWICZ Partner Cullen and Dykman, LLP
TRIAL ATTORNEY TRIAL LAW
CHAD J. LAVEGLIA CEO & Trial Lawyer Law Office of Chad J. LaVeglia, PLLC
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
JONATHAN R. KLEE
Managing Partner Klee Woolf Coldman & Filpi, LLP
TIMOTHY E.T. FINNEGAN Partner
McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, & Riordan, LLP
COMMUNITY CHAMPION
PHIL RIZZUTO Trial Attorney The Rizzuto Law Firm
TOP LAW FIRM
NIXON PEABODY, LLP
TOP BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM
VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO, LLP
TOP TAX CERTIORARI LAW FIRM
SCHRODER & STROM, LLP
TRIAL TEAM OF THE YEAR
FINZ & FINZ, P.C.
*List in formation
Wilson Elser ANTHONY FORZAGLIA Partner
CAV. NICHOLAS R. CAIAZZO Partner
Spring and Easter festivities light up Elmont
Laughter, music and the sound of children racing across the grass filled Elmont Road Park this past weekend as hundreds of families gathered for the Elmont Cultural Center’s third annual Easter egg hunt.
Held the day before Easter, the event has quickly grown into a community tradition. This year, organizers welcomed 725 registered participants along with more than 600 additional families who joined throughout the afternoon, transforming the park into a lively celebration of spring.
More than 10,000 brightly colored eggs were spread across the field, creating an exciting scene as children eagerly searched for prizes. Many paused along the way to meet the Easter Bunny and take photos with their families.
“This was more than just an Easter event it was a celebration of community, love, and togetherness,” said Selene Ferdinand, founder and CEO of Meera Empowerment.
The afternoon featured a variety of activities, including face painting, arts and crafts, music and games such as relay races and egg-on-the-spoon competitions. Egg hunts were organized by age group to allow children of all ages to participate.
Organizers also introduced a separate egg hunt designed for neurodivergent children, part of an effort to make the event more inclusive and accessible to all families.
Families traveled from across the region, including Brooklyn, the Bronx, Suffolk County and New Jersey, said Ferdinand, which reflected on the event’s growing popularity
Tamar Bailey of the Elmont Cultural Center shared her hopes for the future of the event, saying she hopes to have a helicopter drop down easter eggs one day.
The event was supported by nearly 40 volunteers, including members of the Key Club at Elmont Memorial High School and Meera Empowerment ambassadors, who helped ensure activities ran smoothly throughout the day.
For many attendees, the event offered more than seasonal entertainment — it provided an opportunity for families and neighbors to come together and celebrate the holiday as a community.
–Hailey Fulmer
Members of the
With efforts from 40 volunteers, the Easter Egg Hunt was filled with Easter and Spring décor, adding onto a fun-filled spring day.
Jason Thomas/Herald photos
Children race across the turf with baskets in hand during the annual Easter egg hunt at Elmont Road Park.
Meera Empowerment has partnered with the Elmont Cultural Center for the second consecutive year to help give back and host a popular community event that attracts hundreds from the region.
Dozens of children enjoyed getting their face painted at the Elmont Cultural Center’s Easter egg hunt.
Elmont Memorial High School Key Club help organize activities and volunteering to support the community event.
Bessent, Blakeman tout Trump’s tax cuts
By JULIA CAPITELLI jcapitelli@liherald.com
To promote President Trump’s economic agenda, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent visited Long Island and took part in a panel discussion with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and business executives from across the county.
The March 30 discussion, at the county legislative building, focused on three aspects of the Working Families Tax Cut Act: the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime pay, the creation of so-called Trump Accounts and the higher cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes. Under the law, parents can open and contribute funds to accounts for their children under age 18. As part of the pilot program for the accounts, children born during Trump’s term will receive $1,000 from the Treasury Department.
“It’s something that’s going to help every family in America,” Blakeman, the Republican candidate for governor, said of the program.
The law includes an increase in the state and local tax deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000. It also allocates roughly $170 billion to carry out the administration’s immigration and border objectives, and raises the federal debt ceiling to $5 trillion.
“That’s the American way,” Bessent said of the tax cuts. “Work harder, keep more of your money.”
The SALT deduction avoids double taxation and allows certain taxpayers to reduce their federally taxable income. To offset the cost created by this and the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, the law cuts nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and reduces food assistance and clean-energy incentives.
Panelists shared their perspectives on the law, mostly as it relates to their businesses. Michael Serao, exec-
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and several business executives discussed President Trump’s economic agenda on March 30.
utive vice president and chief administrative officer of First Central Savings Bank, claimed that Trump Accounts could help students build financial literacy.
But much of the discussion focused on the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, and the SALT deduction. “I am surrounded by hardworking people, who come into the diner and tell me how happy they are about their tax returns and about how much more money they are getting back,” Gus Tsiorvas, owner of the Embassy Diner, in Bethpage, said.
According to the Internal Revenue Service, the average tax refund this year is roughly 10 percent higher than it was in March 2025. “This means more discretionary spending here in Nassau County,” County Comptroller Elaine Phillips said, “which allows
Bruce not to raise taxes.”
Blakeman reiterated his assertion that Nassau is “the safest county in America where we haven’t raised taxes one penny in four years.”
In a statement about Blakeman’s use of taxpayer resources to campaign as everyday costs escalate, Democratic County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said the Bessent visit was “as shameless as it gets.”
“Nassau residents aren’t stupid — they feel the squeeze every time they fill up, check out at the grocery store, or pay a bill,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “The cost-of-living crisis is real, and it’s being driven directly by the disastrous tariffs and global instability coming from the same out-of-touch allies in Washington [Blakeman] continues to stand with.”
Courtesy Nassau County
STEPPING OUT
‘Rent’ star Adam Pascal returns to reimagine the jukebox musical
By Iris Wiener
When Adam Pascal pulls into Long Island these days, it’s not just a commute; it’s a homecoming layered with memory, coincidence, and creative possibility. This spring, the Tony-nominated performer-turned-director from Syosset is channeling all of that into “Feels Like the First Time: The Foreigner Musical.”
The new production premieres April 17 at the Little Theatre on Long Island University’s Brookville campus.
The project, created in collaboration with the legendary rock band Foreigner, marks the launch of LIU’s New Works Initiative and Pascal’s tenure as the university’s inaugural Artist-in-Residence. But for Pascal, the journey to this moment is anything but typical.
The path to directing the show began not in a rehearsal room, but at a backyard barbecue.
“Tom Dunn [Tilles Center’s creative producer, executive/artistic Director and Dean of LIU’s College of Arts and Design] lives across the street from my sister. I first met Tom and his wife at a barbecue,” Pascal relates. “Tom said, ‘We’re doing this thing. Do you want to direct it?’”
From there, the pieces quickly began to align. A previous version of the musical had been developed, but Pascal and the team — including book writer Stephen Garvey and arranger David Abbinanti — set out to reshape it into something fresh: a high-energy, heart-driven story set in the 1980s, centered on three families whose lives collide when a rock star arrives for a backyard concert after an MTV contest win.
“We wanted to create something that was fun and that had heart, that understood its purpose using Foreigner’s music,” Pascal says.
That purpose, however, comes with a unique creative challenge. The musical weaves iconic songs into an original narrative — a process Pascal describes as both complex and deeply collaborative.
“You’re creating a story, and in many ways building a scene backwards,” he explains. “You have these lyrics that were never written to be narrative in that way, so you have to do a lot of reverse engineering.”
Still, that creative freedom is part of the appeal.
“We get to reimagine these songs,” he adds. “They’ve now become narrative storytelling songs.”
The new musical features a company of 26 performers, primarily LIU students — a fact Pascal calls fortuitous.
“The combination of this process, this particular show, and this university … it couldn’t have been a better melding of all things.”
For Pascal, working with students isn’t just about mentorship — it’s personal, as he has two sons the same age as the young cast. His directing style reflects that perspective, blending instinct, experience and a focus on emotional authenticity.
“I approach it from a much more naturalistic and real place. I’m trying to orchestrate a picture and to get them to use their emotions in a physical way.”
That lived-in approach comes from decades in the industry, which includes roles in Broadway’s “Aida,” “Memphis” and “Something Rotten,” besides the iconic“Rent.” However, Pascal quickly points out that he was never formally trained.
Post’s New Works Initiative, an incubator for developing and refining new theatrical works by both emerging and established writers.
• Friday through Sunday, April 17-19 and Thursday through Sunday, April 23-26, varied times
• Tickets are $43.82, $17.82 students; available at tillescenter.org/events
• Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville
“My approach can only be [described as] a layman approach. I’m fortunate enough to now have 30 years of experience making musicals.”
And yet, for all his Broadway credentials, Pascal is candid about the challenges facing the industry today — particularly the financial barriers that make developing new work increasingly difficult in New York City.
“We all have to change the mindset about working in New York,” he says bluntly, pointing to rising production costs and systemic issues. Instead, he sees projects like “Feels Like the First Time” as part of a larger shift — one that prioritizes creativity, collaboration and accessibility over tradition and expense.
“I want to take the power out of Broadway’s hands and put it back into the hands of people who make theater,” he states.
That philosophy is evident in the show’s development process, which Pascal praises for its efficiency and clarity of vision.
For LIU students like Anna Frost, being part of that process is nothing short of transformative. A senior serving as dramaturg for the show, Frost is deeply embedded in the rehearsal rooms, helping to shape the evolving script.
“It is so exciting for me to work on a show which is in development,” she says. “I get to work with a living, breathing text.”
For her, the experience underscores the importance of new work in today’s theatrical landscape.
“There has to be new art that is relevant to what is happening now,” she adds. “Getting to be a part of something that will be history is really cool.”
Pascal agrees and hopes the students recognize the significance of their involvement.
“They’ll forever be connected to this show as the first people that played these characters,” he says. “If the show becomes a hit, they’ll always have that on their resume.”
That sense of legacy resonates deeply with Pascal himself, particularly given his return to Long Island. He remains deeply connected to his roots, and optimistic about its potential as a hub for theatrical innovation.
“There’s no better place for it,” he says of LIU. “They have the facilities, the desire and the proximity to the city.”
As for what’s next, Pascal continues to develop new musicals through his production company, including an adaptation of “Ruthless People.” He’s also set to direct “Our Little Secret: A True New Musical” in Toronto. For now, “Feels Like the First Time” offers something that feels incredibly meaningful — -a chance to build, collaborate, and rediscover the spark that started it all.
Or, as Pascal might put it, to make it feel like the first time all over again.
Mike DelGuidice
Local favorite Mike DelGuidice returns to the Paramount stage with his popular residency, delivering the high-energy, feel-good performances that have made him a hometown standout. Backed by his powerhouse band, DelGuidice brings the music of his idol, Billy Joel, to life with passion and precision, celebrating decades of iconic hits in a rousing, crowd-pleasing show. A multi-instrumentalist who grew up immersed in music, DelGuidice’s deep knowledge of Joel’s catalog ultimately led to sharing the stage with the Piano Man himself, touring around the world. Alongside Joel’s beloved classics, he weaves in his own original songs, showcasing the songwriting that has earned him a devoted following. Whether performing on stage or connecting with fans through his “Live on the Porch” series, which brought audiences together during the pandemic, DelGuidice continues to share his love of music in ways that resonate far and wide.
Friday and Saturday, April 10-11, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Fleetwood Macked
Eighteen years ago Fleetwood Macked set out to provide audiences with the truest live Fleetwood Mac experience as possible and haven’t stopped since. Much of the realism comes from the New York-based band’s history. Husband and wife musical team Hillary and Michael Epstein (Stevie and Lindsey) and friends Tracy Wells, Jay Novas, Phil Weiss and Andrew Nadien (Christine, John and Mick) have made great music together in various incarnations that finally all came together with their mutual love of Fleetwood Mac. They are and have always been professional touring rock musicians, which also adds to the authenticity of the sound of the band. Fleetwood Macked live brings audiences the passion, depth, heart, and the musicianship Fleetwood Mac’s music requires. Out of love and respect musical liberties are not taken, songs are recreated just as Fleetwood Mac intended them.
Friday, April 10, 8 p.m. $48. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.
Photo courtesy Jack Roman
Adam Pascal, left, with Tilles Center’s Executive and Artistic Director Tom Dunn, is launching LIU
the Porch” series, which brought
“Feels is
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
APR
‘Dog Sees God’
Hofstra University’s Department of Drama and Dance presents Bert V. Royal’s edgy comedy. The unauthorized continuation of the Peanuts comic strip, reimagines its characters as teenagers dealing with various contemporary issues including, identity, substance abuse, and relationships. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that’s both haunting and hopeful. $15 general admission, $10 for seniors and Hofstra alumni.
• Where: Hofstra’s Joan and Donald Schaeffer Black Box Theater, Joseph G. Shapiro Family Hall, Hempstead
• Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; also April 12, 2 p.m.; April 16-April 19
• Contact: hofstra.universitytickets.com
Family
theater
Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also April 14-15
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Seasonal Sprouts: Flowers and Trees
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens to discover the wonders of nature with a one-hour guided tour through the gardens and woodlands, featuring nature-themed games and hands-on activities. This week, children explore plants big
Micky Dolenz
• Where: 68 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: (646) 879-2842
APR
15
Franklin Square Historical Society Fundraiser
The event, hosted at Plattduetsche Park Restaurant marks the organization’s 45th year. Matt Buck, general manager of Plattduetsche Park is honored as Person of the Year award.
• Where: 1132 Hempstead Tpke.
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 459-8157
APR
Asbury Short Film Concert
17
• Time: 8 p.m.
Micky Dolenz celebrates the 60th anniversary of The Monkees with a special tour honoring the band’s enduring legacy and timeless sound. In this nostalgic and high-spirited performance, Dolenz takes audiences on a musical journey through The Monkees’ rise to fame, performing their biggest hits in chronological order while sharing personal stories from his decades in entertainment. As the last surviving member of the beloved group, Dolenz brings both heart and history to the stage, paying tribute to bandmates Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Michael Nesmith, while celebrating the fans who helped transform a fictional TV band into a global sensation. A true entertainment veteran, Dolenz’s career spans decades and disciplines — from his early days as a child star on “Circus Boy” to his work as a singer, actor, director and radio host. In recent years, he has continued to keep The Monkees’ music alive for new generations, including a solo tour performing the group’s 1967 album “Headquarters” in its entirety. This is sure to be a heartfelt, hit-filled evening that blends music, memories and a lasting connection to one of pop culture’s most iconic acts.
and small, learning how they grow and change with the seasons. Each session includes a simple planting or craft project for children to take home and continue their learning. Registration required. $22 adult, $20 seniors 62+ (member discounts available).
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 11 a.m.-noon
• Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
APR
11
‘A Dream Is A Wish’
The enchanting “A Dream Is A Wish”princess concert returns to the Madison Theatre with new adventures and Disney Classics. Families are invited to sing along to all their favorite Disney songs including “Let It Go,” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” “Part of That World,” “ A Whole New World,” and many more. Enjoy a magical journey and maybe even meet your favorite princess! Breakfast and tea ticket options also available.
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Varied times, also April 12
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
APR
12
Celebrate Holi
Families are invited to Long Island Children’s Museum to elebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors. Originating in India, this Hindu festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of the colorful spring season. During this joyous holiday, families eat sweets, dance to traditional folk music and throw colorful powder made from flowers called gulal. Wear white clothes you don’t mind getting messy!
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Franklin Square Spring Cleanup
Franklin Square Civic Association welcomes everyone to step out and help clean up the Hempstead Turnpike. FSCA works to improve the quality of life for residents of Franklin Square by organizing community events. The meeting point to start the cleanup is the parking lot on Sobo Avenue. Garbage bags and gloves are provided .
• Where: 655 Sobo Ave.
• Time: 9-11 a.m.
• Contact: fsqcivic.org
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
APR
13
Barry Manilow farewell concert
UBS Arena welcomes legendary singersongwriter Barry Manilow. Known for timeless hits like “Mandy” and “Copacabana,” Manilow has delighted audiences worldwide for decades. Expect an unforgettable night of classic favorites, heartfelt ballads, and spectacular showmanship. Tickets are available at ubsarena.com.
• Where: 2400 Hempstead Tpke.
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com
APR
15
Sons and Daughters of Italy membership meeting
Sons and Daughters of Italy, America Lodge #2245 holds their next meeting. Members and guests gather to discuss lodge business, upcoming activities, community outreach, cultural programs, heritage initiatives, and planning for future events. These meetings are also a chance to connect with fellow Italian-American community members, share updates from the Grand Lodge, and participate in social discussions.
This national touring showcase returns to the Madison Theatre. See a diverse, focused lineup — in many cases featuring up-and-coming filmmakers — of short films you generally won’t find on the big screen. These films, including Oscar and film festival winners, cover all genres.
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
APR
18
‘Dog Days’ Weekend and Dog Festival
Get ready to wag those tails, at Old Westbury Gardens with your pooch (leashed of course), Bring your canine companions for a scenic stroll through grounds bursting spring’s first blooms. With a curated lineup of local pet and dogfocused vendors offering treats, accessories, services, and more — ust for your pup (and you!).
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury
• Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., also April 19
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
April 9, 2026 —
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
Public Notices
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. ANA DEYSI ROCKMAN A/K/A ANA D. GAMERO A/K/A ANA ROCKMAN A/K/A ANA D. ZALDIVAR A/K/A ANA GAMERO, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 6, 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 April 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 13 Crystal Street, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 670 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $74,058.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 602114/2024.
Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 233926-1 158981
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I INC. TRUST 2007-NC3 MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-NC3, Plaintiff, AGAINST LENIOR V. WRIGHT, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on October 15, 2024.
I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 23, 2026 at 3:00 PM premises known as 93 Terrace Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003.
Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.
All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 32, Block 453 and Lot 61-63.
Approximate amount of judgment $842,282.61 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #015839/2008.
Thomas R. Scanlon, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 159061
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF POPULAR ABS, INC. MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-4, Pltf. vs. THEYCESLYN FREEMAN, et al, Defts. Index #610776/2019. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Jan. 28, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 32 Cerenzia Boulevard, Elmont, NY 11003 a/k/a Section 32, Block 672, Lot 00001. Said property known as and by Lot No. 1 in Block 645 on a certain map entitled, “Amended Map of Argo Village, N.Y., owned by Argo Homes Inc., 481 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, New York, surveyed by Howard J.
Teas, Civil Engineers and Surveyors, Homeland Building, Malverne, N.Y., June 23, 1947 under file Number 4421.
Approximate amount of judgment is $520,118.02 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. JOHN BOKLAK, Referee. HILL WALLACK, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 260 Madison Avenue, 9th Floor, Ste. 940, New York, NY 10016. File No. 20292-1223 - #102827 159063
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Nassau The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the CWABS Inc., AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-16, Plaintiff AGAINST Jules Fabien, Carine Fabien, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 26, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 23, 2026 at 2:30 PM premises known as 1692 Greenway Boulevard, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 37, BLOCK: 655, LOT: 17. Approximate amount of judgment is $881,221.94 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 611126/2019. This sale may be subject to the US Dept of the Tr easury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Real Estate Reporting Rule. In such event, all purchasers are required to provide the information needed for proper reporting in accordance with the terms of sale. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Ronald J. Ferraro, Referee FRENKEL
LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-091013-F01 89232 159039
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff against MARIETTA DONOFRIO, et al Defendant(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered September 8, 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 April 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 2318 Hoffman Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003-2841. Sec 32 Block 409 Lot 5. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $115,826.80 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 616304/2023. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. 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. 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.”
Keith A LaVallee, Esq., Referee File # NY202300000397-1 159055
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. CITIBANK, N.A., Plaintiff -againstRICARDO CASTILLO A/K/A RICARDO A. CASTILLO, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 18, 2024 and entered on July 26, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 5, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the westerly side of Stewart Street, distant 220 feet northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the westerly side of Stewart Street with the northerly side of Atherton Avenue; being a plot 100 feet by 40 feet by 100 feet by 40 feet. Section: 32 Block: 481 Lots 42 and 43.
Said premises known as 108 STEWART STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003
Approximate amount of lien $214,001.69 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. 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 or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 605713/2023.
HEATHER D. CROSLEY, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030
File# 7777.248
{* Elmont Herald*} 159141
LEGAL NOTICE ASSESSOR’S NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL THE ASSESSOR OF THE COUNTY OF NASSAU HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that he has completed the 2026/2027 final assessment roll, which will be used for the 2027 levy of Town and County Taxes in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay, and the City of Glen Cove and the City of Long Beach, and for the 2026/2027 levy of school taxes in such Towns and in the City of Long Beach. A certified electronic copy of the roll was filed with the Department of Assessment on April 1, 2026. The electronic roll may be examined on public terminals located in the offices of:
DEPARTMENT OF ASSESSMENT NASSAU COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING 240 OLD COUNTRY ROAD, FOURTH FLOOR MINEOLA, NY 11501 where the same will remain open for public inspection for fifteen days. Dated this 1st day of April 2026.
JOSEHA A. ADAMO Assessor, Nassau County 159474
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 04/22/2026 at 9:30
A.M. & 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30
A.M.
203/26. - 204/26. ELMONT - Edward & Gladys Revilla, Variances, front yard average setback, lot area occupied, maintain roof over raised patio attached to dwelling; Variances, lot area occupied, side yard, side yards aggregate, maintain carport attached to dwelling., E/s Circle Dr. E., 250’ N/o Ludlam Ave., a/k/a 161 Circle Dr. E.
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00
P.M.
219/26. ELMONTSNM Capital Holdings LLC, Use variance to construct 2-family dwelling not permitted in Res. “B” district with lot area occupied & average front yard setback variances (demolish existing dwelling)., E/s Gotham Ave., 195’ N/o Blackstone St., f/k/a 76 Gotham Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Elmont within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 159468
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CMG MORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. AQUIRA NEAL-CLARKE A/K/A AQUIRA CLARKE, AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SHANTAY NEAL, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on
February 4, 2026 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 1588 WOODSTOCK STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 606, Lot: 162A & 162B. Approximate amount of judgment is $403,380.86 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 615850/2022. 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. For Sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
SCOTT SILLER, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 159492
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU CitiMortgage, Inc., Plaintiff AGAINST Kettie Jean; Milius Jean; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 2, 2015, amended May 24, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 14, 2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 500 Cameron Street, 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, State of New York, Section 0032 Block 00543 Lot
Public Notices
00015-00017.
Approximate amount of judgment $479,741.91 plus interest and costs.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 008892/2014.
Foreclosure auction will be held “Rain or Shine”
Leslie Feifer, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: March 26, 2026 159498
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., f/k/a The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee, in trust for ChaseFlex Multi-Class Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-1 Plaintiff, Against
Sung Choi a/k/a
Thomas Choi a/k/a
Thomas L. Choi a/k/a
Thomas R. Choi a/k/a Tomas Choi a/k/a Thomas Lee Choi, Capital One Bank New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, Capital One Bank (USA), NA, Atlantic City Showboat, Inc., American Express Centurion Bank, Monrovia Growers Company, Boardwalk Regency Corp. d/b/a Caesars Atlantic City, Trump Taj Mahal Associates (formerly Trump Taj Mahal Associates, L.P.) t/a Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort, JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA, Discover Bank, Chase Bank USA, NA Chung Choi Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/01/2018, 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 5/12/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 16 Park Place, Floral Park, NY 11001, and described as follows:
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, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Section 32 Block 65 Lot 187 and 188. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $742,622.44 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 606764/2017 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Scott H Siller, Esq., Referee.
SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Dated: 3/18/2026 File Number: 32674 CA 159488
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
M&T BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST DAVID B. KAYODE, LUCITIA
FORTUNE A/K/A L C
FORTUNE CLEMENT
A/K/A LUCITIA C
FORTUNE CLEMENT
A/K/A LUCITIA C
FORTUNE A/K/A L C
FORTUNE-CLEMENT
A/K/A LUCTITIA C
FORTUNECLEMENT
A/K/A LUCITIA C
FORTUNE A/K/A
LUCITIA C FORTUNECLEMENT A/K/A
LUCITA FORTUNE
A/K/A LUCITIA C.
FORTUNE CLEMENT, ET AL., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 21, 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 May 12, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 11619 240th Street a/k/a 116-19 240th 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: 640 Lot(s): 242, 243. Approximate amount of judgment $696,237.61 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605818/2019. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Robert J. Aiello, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Miller, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1840 New York, NY 10006 25-001347 89282 159460
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO CITIBANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR BEAR STEARNS ALT-A TRUST, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-4, -againstLUZ FONSECA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on September 11, 2019, wherein WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO CITIBANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR BEAR STEARNS ALT-A TRUST, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-4 is the Plaintiff and LUZ FONSECA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 11, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1342 EAST STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 35-84-8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT (NOT AN INCORPORATED VILLAGE) IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 003767/2016. Kevin J. O’Brien, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159477
PSEG Long Island is reminding residents that scammers don’t have an offseason. Utility work is a pathway in which one can be scammed.
PSEG reminds residents to stay vigilant of scams
Scammers posing as utility workers continue to target Long Island residents year-round, using phone calls, fake websites and even in-person visits to pressure customers into making immediate payments, according to PSEG Long Island officials.
The company is urging customers to take a moment to verify any unexpected communication before taking action, especially when faced with threats of immediate service shutoff.
“PSEG Long Island wants customers to remember one simple thing: Stop and verify first. If someone threatens to immediately shut off your power, check your account online or call the number that’s printed on your bill to double check before giving them any money,” said Lou DeBrino, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Customer Operations. “It may be an advanced digital scam, an in-person scammer or a telephone call, but nearly all scammers present an urgent problem in the hopes that their victims panic and miss all the clues that they’re not who they appear to be. If you are unexpectedly contacted by someone claiming to be from PSEG Long Island and threatening to immediately shut off your power without payment, take a step back. Contact PSEG Long Island independently and verify before acting.”
Officials said many scammers demand immediate payment through web-based electronic services, prepaid debit cards or even Bitcoin. In some cases, victims are instructed to purchase prepaid cards from convenience stores and read the PIN over the phone. PSEG Long Island does not accept those forms of payment outside of its official “My Account” platform and will never require a specific payment method.
Scammers also frequently use “spoofing” technology to make it appear as though calls are coming directly from PSEG Long Island. In other cases, callers may demand deposits for services such as priority meter installations — a request the company said is not legitimate.
Customers who are unsure about the
authenticity of a call or email are advised to hang up and contact the company directly at (800) 490-0025.
In-person scams have also been reported, with individuals going door to door posing as utility employees. These impostors may wear fake uniforms, display counterfeit identification or place misleading signage on their vehicles. They often request personal information or offer fraudulent discounts.
PSEG Long Island officials said legitimate employees will always carry company identification and present it upon request. Customers are advised not to allow anyone into their home if they have doubts and to call 911 if the individual becomes aggressive.
Online scams are another growing concern. Fraudsters have created fake websites that closely resemble the company’s official site, hoping to trick users into entering personal and payment information. The company emphasized that its official website uses a “.com” domain.
More recently, scammers have targeted electric vehicle users by placing fraudulent QR code stickers on public charging stations. These codes direct users to fake websites designed to collect personal or credit card information. PSEG Long Island said it does not require customers to access its website to activate public charging stations.
The company also reminded customers that legitimate representatives will only discuss account details with the Customer of Record and will provide identifying information, including the account name, address and balance. If that information cannot be verified, customers should assume the call is fraudulent.
PSEG Long Island is a member of Utilities United Against Scams, a national coalition that works to raise awareness and combat utility fraud. Through its efforts, the group has helped shut down more than 14,830 tollfree numbers used by scammers.
–Jordan Vallone
Courtesy PSEG
Waiting For The Right Family
This is a standout listing in Woodmere’s Five Towns. Fully renovated legal mother-daughter (2-family classification 220.01), this originally 6-bedroom, 3-bath home is ideal for rental income or extended family living. This oversized 3,500 sq. ft. Hi-Ranch is in the award-winning Hewlett-Woodmere
How much extra money does a home cost these days?
Q. I saw a billboard and several TV commercials for something called “Let Them Build, NY,” and was wondering what you could tell me about it. The commercial said that there is an extra $82,000 spent on housing, per home, just due to government red tape. Is this true, and is anything being done about it?
A. There is plenty of finger-pointing in the construction industry, on top of the current cost increases due to tariffs, war and subsequent delivery costs due to higher fuel prices. But long before there were these current issues, government officials began, at every level, to either increase enforcement of existing regulations or to add regulations on top of what was already fairly complicated and burdensome.
Many years ago I was very active in the American Institute of Architects, to the point of being vice president of the Long Island chapter. I left them when I realized that they did not want to have the backbone to challenge, as a professional group, the regulations that cause construction and building design to become out of reach for a large segment of our population. In the years following, I daily encountered the thousands of building owners who never even attempted to comply with building regulations, basically skirting the entire permit process altogether because of the added expense.
The first and foremost expense is caused by the delays in getting through the approval process. There are so many reasons for the slowdown that it will take several columns, at 500 words apiece, to get through the long list of problems. If you ask a government official, they will point to the design professionals who “just can’t seem to get the regulations right” in their drawing submissions. I have often listened as officials complained to me about inadequate drawings being submitted. In all fairness, it is a two-way street, because the communications from officials back to the architects and engineers is often incoherent or incomplete.
When a plans examiner uses phrases like “demonstrate compliance” or “incomplete submission,” they are contributing to the problem, not solving it. Instead of pointing to specific sections of code and explaining the very specific problem, they communicate in generalities that are useless and cause a lot of extra work and discussion among the people trying to move a project forward. The phrase “If you aren’t part of the solution, you’re part of the problem” applies here.
I remember when a plans examiner would mark up and discuss specific drawings, and some even went the extra mile and pulled out their code books. In the era of computers, the internet and the “portal,” building officials often abbreviate and confuse both the professional and the customer by not pointing out that “the wording on Sheet 3 in the upper right-hand corner should state…” The lack of specifics creates lots of back-and-forth, delays and cost to the owner for the delays. Rent and taxes still need to be paid during the delays.
More to follow.
© 2026 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
Building Maintenance Assistant and Porter needed for Management Co. in Long Beach Experience Preferred Email: humanresoures5771 @gmail.com or Call: (212) 873-7575
DENTAL ASSISTANT
CHAIR SIDE F/T Lynbrook Office, Immediate Opening. Looking for Experienced Individual Email Resume nylaserendo@gmail.com Call 516-599-7111
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com
FOOD DIVISION MARKETING SPECIALIST For ALPI USA, Inc (Valley Stream, NY). Requires 24 months experience in business development within logistics for overseas food industry and 24 months in international freight handling. High school diploma required. Salary: $61,797. Email resume to ana.felix@alpiusa.com”
PHOTOGRAPHERS WANTED
$20 - $25 Per Hour Must Be Available On Weekends April - June 516-902-6258 Randy@LISNYC.com
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160
Finds $100-$350
SOFA: LOVE SEAT/ Pull Out Bed, Chocate Brown, Never Used. $350.00. Leave message 516-643-3623
SERVICES
Cable/TV/Wiring
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
Cleaning Services
WENDY'S CLEANING SERVICES INC. Commercial/Residential. We Specialize In Houses, Apartments, Offices, Airbnb & More. Good References. Free Estimates. Call/Text Wendy 516-406-5375 Or Email wencruzpa@gmail.com
Electricians
Home Improvement
DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.
PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
Power Washing POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
Services
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
GLASS TOP, WHITE wrought iron outdoor table, 4 chairs/cushions, $99. Merrick, 516-650-4942
SONY HT-MT300 TV Sound Bar. Still in box. $90. text 516-647-1999. WEBER GENESIS OUTDOOR gas grill, working condition, $75. Merrick, 516-650-4942
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
Home Improvement
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159
SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473
Miscellaneous
GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells
LAWN SPRINKLERS
Installed & Serviced. Repairs, Installations, Upgrades. EARLY SPRING SPECIALS! FREE WIFI TIMER ($550 Value) w/Any New Sprinkler System Installation Completed by 4/15/26. Satisfying Customers For Over 44 Years. Licensed & Insured. COUNTY IRRIGATION 515-255-9595 www.countyirrigation.com
Telephone Services
CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
Tree Services
T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE *TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING *PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com
Satellite/TV Equipment
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Health & Fitness
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL
Did I ever tell you about my grad school?
Rosemary and I and our son Sean recently visited the University of Notre Dame. In many ways it was a homecoming.
Rosemary, her mother and her sister graduated from St. Mary’s College, adjacent to Notre Dame, in the days before it accepted female students. Her father and two brothers are Notre Dame grads. Our daughter Erin and I graduated from Notre Dame Law School, and Sean earned his MBA from Notre Dame’s Mendoza School of Business. Sean is now an affiliated scholar at the university’s Liu Institute for Asian Affairs, and regularly lectures on Asian geopolitics and economic policy at the institute and the Mendoza School. When I was growing up as an IrishCatholic kid in blue-collar Queens, Notre Dame embodied Irish-Catholic immigrant success in becoming a part of the American fabric and achieving the American dream. That success was exemplified by Notre Dame’s fabled football teams, which dominated college
football during that era. Of course, there was and is more to the university than football. Notre Dame was founded at a time of severe anti-Catholic bias in the country, led by hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and the Know Nothing movement. There also was anti-Catholic bias in academia well into the 20th century, which Arthur Schlesinger Sr. described as “the anti-Semitism of intellectuals.”
My wife and I visited a university you may have heard of to watch our son in action.
Notre Dame, though, went beyond being a defensive religious fortress to making Catholic thought a part of American life, along with full acceptance of other religions, with open debate and finding common ground encouraged. Striking that balance can be difficult, but it is still working. Religious freedom was on display on the campus last year, when pro-Hamas demonstrations did not devolve into the antisemitic violence that occurred at other universities, such as Columbia. Students were given prescribed locations and time periods for demonstrations, and those who ignored them were arrested. The result was intelligent debate without violence.
Rosemary and I visited this year to meet with some of Sean’s academic colleagues and watch him in action. We
ialso walked around the campus, taking in iconic sights like the Golden Dome and rekindling old memories. On our first morning, we met with Frank Pomarico and his wife, Eileen. A Queens native and a graduate of St. Francis Prep, Frank was the captain of Notre Dame’s 1973 national champion football team, coached by the legendary Ara Parseghian. Frank and Eileen live in South Bend, and are amazingly friendly and interesting. It was a great way to start the day.
Then we walked over to the law school to meet with Diane Desierto, a professor of international law and human rights, a native of the Philippines, a friend of Sean’s and a true scholar. Desierto updated me on the state of the law school (all good), her strong belief that law students should be exposed to all sides of issues and that legal education must include a moral component.
We had lunch with Josh Gobel, a good friend and a longtime member of the South Bend Police Department who now works in the Notre Dame P.D. in various key capacities, including protecting visiting dignitaries, such as Supreme Court Justice Amy Cony Barrett — who
attended the law school at the same time as Erin. Great conversation with Josh, as always.
After a visit to the campus bookstore, Rosemary and I joined Sean at the Morris Inn on campus for dinner with Michel Hockx, a Chinese scholar and a professor at the Liu Institute, where Sean had just finished teaching a class. Hockx, who is originally from the Netherlands, has been teaching at Notre Dame for 10 years, and has worked with Sean on various projects. After dinner, we all walked to the Mendoza School to watch Sean give a lecture to a group of students preparing to visit Japan.
He discussed the intricacies of Japanese political, cultural and economic development since the end of World War II, the country’s relationship with the United States and the threats it faces from China. My biased opinion? A thoughtful, virtuoso performance. (He must have gotten it from Rosemary, who was a teacher.)
The next day we flew back to New York. Rosemary and I went home to Seaford, and Sean to his apartment in Manhattan — all three of us with new Notre Dame memories to share. And yes, Notre Dame football is still great. Go, Irish!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Will there be a blue wave this fall?
Is this the year of the blue wave? Will it be a modified one or a total rout? Is there any chance of a red wave? Not likely. But, once again, we are facing a year in which the U.S. House of Representatives, and perhaps the Senate, are up for grabs, and the early odds favor the party that’s out of power.
We often refer to political prognosticating it as “reading the tea leaves.” But tea leaves are no longer the best way to pick winners and losers. There are now so many more sophisticated ways to handicap the races, some of which we have been used for years and others that are brand new. The media is dominated by daily polling announcements, and if you give the polls any credence, they spell bad news for President Trump and the candidates of his party.
Poll after poll, whether from the left or the right, seem to indicate that this may be a very bad year for Republicans.
You know that things look bad for them when Fox News consistently announces polls showing that everyday Republicans and independents are slowly moving away from long-favored party candidates. In addition, wellknown commentators such as Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson are predicting only bad things for the party come November.
iThe newest form of political projections is occurring on such outlets as Kalshi and Polymarket. On Kalshi, people trade contracts on the outcome of real-world events. They are deep into gambling on sports events, but lately have also been involved in betting on political events. Polymarket is built on a crypto platform. People bet on “yes” and “no” shares that reflect the feelings of the bettors and their inkling to pick winners. Both platforms have become highly controversial. Demands are being made for them to be regulated by Congress, but that won’t happen soon. If you want to find more reliable trends, pay attention to what’s going on in Washington and around the country. This year, more than 30 Republican
’ve seen many waves, red and blue, which are part of the ups and downs of politics.
members of the House have announced that they won’t seek re-election. Some are campaigning for Senate seats and others are running for governor, but the vast majority of the retirees have announced that they’re eager to spend more time with their families, the age-old excuse to get out of Washington.
At last count, there were 35 House seats up for reelection that were tilting toward the Democrats. If the blue wave is really going to happen, most of those seats will go to the Democrats. In 2025 the party won major races in Virginia, New Jersey and New York. This year, a number of Democrats have had upset wins in races for state House seats in districts that Trump won in 2024 by wide margins. If these victories are any indication of the national trend, it’s all bad news for the Republicans.
Up to a few months ago, there was little or no talk about Democrats having any chance to take over the U.S. Senate, but the latest polls seem to show a tightening of the races in Maine, North Carolina, Texas and Ohio. If Democrats can
pull off any upsets in these key states, Jon Ossoff can hold on to his seat in Georgia and a newcomer can win in Michigan, the party’s chances of capturing the Senate will improve remarkably.
One of the more disturbing factors for Republicans is the fact that Trump hasn’t made any strong statements about his desire to see his party stay in power. He is promoting various ideas about how they can win at the ballot box, but any federal effort to take the power to oversee voting away from the states will likely be struck down as unconstitutional.
Having reached an advanced age, I’ve seen many waves, both red and blue. They sometimes last two years, and occasionally continue for four years. The swings back and forth between parties are part of the ups and downs of politics. So if it turns out that the Democrats have a great year, they’d better handle their newfound power very carefully, because two years can pass very quickly.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.
opinions Washington must start solving problems
The American people are fed up.
The chaos at our airports was awful, the Department of Homeland Security has not been fully funded during these very dangerous times, and the people are demanding that Immigration and Customs Enforcement live up to the standards of all other federal law enforcement agencies. They are sick and tired of the endless blame game. All across America, people are demanding that politicians put partisanship aside and work together to fix the very real problems we face. The anger and annoyance are real. And frankly, I agree.
That’s why I’ve introduced bipartisan legislation to immediately reopen DHS while advancing common-sense reforms to ICE. Alongside my Problem Solvers Caucus co-chair, Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, who served as an FBI agent for more than 15 years, I am trying to cut through the dysfunction, isolate the problem areas where negotiations have stalled and work together to actually get something done.
Our solution is common sense: fund the parts of the DHS where there are no disagreements, like disaster response and cybersecurity, and institute real reforms to ICE that most Americans have been hungering for. It only makes sense to hold ICE, a federal law-enforcement agency, to the same safety and accountability standards of every other bureau in the nation.
Calling us ‘Country Destroying, Radical Left Democrats’ doesn’t help.
That means body-camera and officer-identification requirements, higher training standards, a crackdown on roving patrols and limitations on agents wearing masks. The legislation would also lay out stronger warrant requirements and rules governing activity in sensitive locations to ensure that enforcement resources are focused on the “worst of the worst.”
It seems simple, but Congress has been in a political standoff that perfectly exemplifies what’s wrong with Washington. Let me explain.
The budget for the DHS is $97 billion. $87 billion of that funds everything from the TSA agents at our airports to Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster responses, cybersecurity units and the Coast Guard. The remaining $10 billion funds ICE.
Singing the low-down,
iam astonished to tell you that I just marked my 79th birthday.
No greetings and salutations, please. It’s a big number, and it weighs a ton. I’m standing on the threshold of lights-out and wondering how I got from then to now.
In 1949 I could walk under my parents’ dining room table. It was my special parlor trick. Then playground, school, dating, college, marriage, kids, grandkids and closing curtains.
I’m still short, but I can’t clear the tabletop. And that’s not all that has changed. Culture, politics, fashion, food and entertainment are often unrecognizable to me. Sometimes I feel estranged from “modern” life. As I write this out of my own brain, sharing my unadulterated, unimproved or revised thoughts, I’m being assaulted by prompts asking if I want “Copilot” to rework my sentences. I don’t know where Copilot came from and have no
Democrats have been saying for weeks that they will fund the $87 billion that doesn’t go to ICE right now. That would have ended the airport disaster, paid our TSA agents far earlier and kept the core functions of DHS operating. We would not vote to fund the other $10 billion for ICE, however, until there were real reforms.
While Republicans resisted at first, there was eventually enough consensus among both Democratic and Republican members of Congress to at least reopen the non-ICE agencies of DHS. But just as bipartisan negotiations in the Senate were making progress, President Trump intervened with a directive to his party: “No deals with the Democrats.”
To be precise, he outlawed deals with the “Crazy, Country Destroying, Radical Left Democrats.”
That’s outrageous. Once again, that’s politics getting in the way of progress. Finger-pointing has been all too prevalent.
I have built my career on finding common ground for the common good. It has always been my philosophy that I’ll work with anyone, regardless of political party, to get things done for my constituents. As co-chair of the biparti-
san Problem Solvers Caucus, I’ve worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to tackle the nation’s toughest issues. Just a few months ago we passed legislation out of the House that extended health care tax credits to prevent skyrocketing premiums for millions. Unfortunately, then as now, the president got in the way, changing the debate from bipartisan health care wins to Venezuela and Greenland before the Senate could close the deal.
I represent a district that voted for Trump and for me. My constituents aren’t interested in partisan talking points — they want results. They want safe airports, secure borders, a functioning government and a lower cost of living. And they want their elected officials to work together to deliver.
People are concerned that the Department of Homeland Security has not been in the game. They’re outraged about the illegal and immoral behavior of ICE. And they’re frustrated that politicians are too busy pointing fingers to solve our problems.
We don’t have to choose between security and accountability. We can do both. We don’t have to accept dysfunction in Washington. And we certainly don’t have to tolerate political games when real people are being affected.
Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.
how-did-I-get-so-old
idea how to get rid of it. This isn’t a one-off experience. It’s daily combat with technology that threatens to drive me screaming from the house.
I’m barely exaggerating. Many friends are more adept with technology, but many more are less skilled. This is a constant challenge, whether I try to pay a bill or reach a doctor or, heaven forbid, get a copy of a document from the DMV.
Life is hard enough, what with approaching death and such. But add heaven knows how many streaming services when all you want to do is turn on the freaking TV for a half hour; it’s too much. With all the tools that are supposed to make life easier, it has undoubtedly become more complicated. And this isn’t just an oldster’s kvetch.
M y daily combat with technology threatens to drive me screaming from the house.
“Next time you can do better.” I want to be alone, and all day long I’m assailed by pings and rings and notifications ad nauseum. I talk to friends in real time and real space, and as I share my private thoughts with them, they’re talking to the watch on their wrist. This can’t be good for anyone. I know this sounds like every older generation’s observations of the young, but in this case, really, you know I’m right. No one just sits and talks to one another anymore without a prop, like a phone.
blues
We were inexperienced and naïve enough to feel wonder and delight in love and travel and having children. Now “parenting” seems like a burden to many young people, and indeed it is, with apps that track ovulation and breast milk availability. The technology hijacks the entire experience. You can’t do better as a parent by finding the exact time Baby will burp after feeding. What you can do is lose the joy of the moment.
Time was, I could go for a walk in peace and quiet, enjoying my own thoughts. Now I’m fully sucked into the need to do three things at once: walk, listen to a book while I read and answer messages, and have some app count my steps. I never signed on to this app, yet it has the nerve to tell me after a walk:
I think about my first encounters with boys when we were in grade school. We started and stumbled and learned to talk to one another, and then danced and then dated and made out in cars. Today I read story after story about how 20-somethings say that romance and dating are dead. Who killed it? Did we boomers somehow get the best of it? You know, right place, right time? The pace of life, the devices, the culture of increasing isolation are not working to make a better life for the grandkids.
From my vantage point, stepping into my 80th year, it’s been a pretty good life so far. These last years have brought some painful challenges, but the decades before provided a buffer of good memories and gratitude. We can’t travel right now, but it is said that real discovery isn’t looking for something new but seeing the same life with different eyes.
I believe with all my heart that for many of us boomers, the pandemic and its isolation, the separation from kids, grandkids and friends, robbed us of the years we might have eased into older age. And now we’re here. The best I can do is look at this moment, and it will be just a moment, with new eyes.
Copyright 2026 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
Local News Day now means more than ever
Somewhere on Long Island tonight, a village board will vote on a zoning variance, a school district will finalize a budget or a contractor will win a bid. None of it will lead the network news or trend on social media. But it will matter — to the family whose street gets rezoned, to the teachers whose contract is on the line, to the taxpayers footing the bill.
In most cases, a Herald reporter will be in that room. But in too many communities across the country — and increasingly in our own backyard — that reporter’s chair sits empty. And when no one is watching, things have a way of going sideways.
April 9 is Local News Day, a national moment to recognize what local news does, why it matters, and what we lose when it disappears.
Local news isn’t the shouting matches on cable or the partisan warfare that passes for national political coverage. Local news is the Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Hewlett High School science fair. It’s the Nassau County budget hearing that will affect your property taxes for the next decade, the obituary that captures a neighbor’s life, and the investigation that stops a bad idea before it becomes law. At Richner Communications — publisher of the Long Island Herald — we’ve been doing this work since 1964. Sixty-two years, three generations, over 100 local employees, nearly 30 weekly newspapers.
The Founding Fathers understood the stakes. The free press is the only indus-
Your opinion Matters
try they considered important enough to protect by name in the Constitution. But we are failing that promise. Since 2004, one-third of all American newsrooms have closed. There are 43,000 fewer local reporters and editors working today than there were then. New York alone has lost nearly half its newspapers, and a quarter of the state’s counties now have one or no local news sources. Digital-only outlets have not filled the void.
Today, more than 2½ newspapers shutter in America each week. The consequences are documented and dire: Communities without local news see lower voter turnout, higher taxes and measurable increases in corruption, political polarization, and even toxic environmental emissions.
Wealth is no inoculation from this trend. The Scarsdale Inquirer was founded in 1901 and served one of the wealthiest communities in America for 123 years. It closed without warning in January 2024. The Westchester village — mirroring the demographics of many Long Island communities — still doesn’t have a newspaper over two years later.
Compounding this problem is the rise of artificial intelligence, which can now manufacture articles, quotes, and entire “news sites” that look authoritative and cost almost nothing to create. That means the news environment has only grown harder to navigate. Trusted news brands, with reporters who actually live and work in the communities they cover, are more important than ever. It’s the reason that we at the Herald use A.I. as a tool to support, not replace, the report-
ers you know and respect.
And yet the climate for news in America has rarely been more hostile than today. The United States now ranks 57th in the world in press freedom — labeled “problematic” by Reporters Without Borders, placing us alongside countries we’re accustomed to lecturing about democratic norms. Arrests of reporters and editors in America nearly tripled between 2023 and 2024. A national shield law for reporters has failed to pass Congress twice. Right now, the Pentagon is aggressively curtailing press access, a policy that flies in the face of a functioning democracy. The temperature in Washington sets a tone, and that tone travels — all the way to the reporters covering Long Island’s myriad municipal entities.
The Herald has always believed that local news is worth fighting for. It’s why we helped found the Empire State Local News Coalition, which won a first-of-itskind state tax credit for local newspapers. That legislation is already helping newspapers survive that might otherwise have gone dark, meaning that thousands of New Yorkers who might otherwise have lost their only trusted local news source still have one.
Every community gets the local news it deserves — which is to say, the local news it supports. If you want a paper that shows up, you have to show up for it. On Local News Day, make that decision. Subscribe. Advertise. Tell your neighbors. The Herald has been here for over a century. Whether we’re here for the next one is, in no small part, up to you.
opinions Acid assault case calls for review of state laws
after nearly five years, the Elmont community received news that we had all prayed for — arrests in the horrific March 17, 2021, acid attack on Elmont resident Nafiah Ikram, in which she was ambushed in the driveway of her home.
The arrests came just in time, because the fiveyear statute of limitations was just weeks away from expiring.
Had that happened, Nafiah and her family would have been permanently deprived of the justice they deserve.
During my service as a Nassau County legislator, I’ve met many extraordinary people who have demonstrated courage, tenacity and resolve amid the unthinkable. Among that group of remarkable individuals, Nafiah is certainly one of the bravest.
She and her family persevered through extraordinary struggles and uncertainty in the aftermath of the
assault. She endured numerous treatments for the injuries that were inflicted upon her. All the while, she continued her studies at Hofstra University, became a public advocate for crime victims, and was always a beacon of perseverance and remarkable grace. In a recent interview, she said she was considering becoming a trauma doctor to help others who are dealing with similar crises.
TAs we stood together advocating for justice — by pushing law enforcement to redouble its efforts, urging increases to the CrimeStoppers reward in her case, and using our voices to ensure that her story was never forgotten — the determination and grace she demonstrated is profoundly inspiring.
nightmarish crime to justice, but also provided a small bit of closure that the Ikram family has long sought. For that, we are all deeply grateful.
Nafiah and her family were nearly denied this chance. The arrest of the suspects, who are now being held without bail and face up to 25 years in prison, came just before the five-year statute of limitations was to expire. After that date, no prosecution would have been possible.
he thought that Nafiah Ikram’s attackers almost got away with it is infuriating.
She never gave up. She kept fighting for her future — and she prevailed.
The Nassau County Police Department and the district attorney’s office did a remarkable job in this case with limited information. The case got harder as time passed, and the outcome is a demonstration of their professionalism and focus. Their relentless pursuit of justice not only brought suspects in a
Framework by Tim Baker
That cannot happen again.
The thought that those who carried out such a diabolical attack, with the intent of permanently traumatizing and wounding another person with acid, sickens me to my core. The idea that they were nearly able to get away with it is downright infuriating. For that reason, I strongly believe that amendments to New York state law are necessary to ensure that a future victim never has to face that potential outcome.
I urge my colleagues in Albany to eliminate or substantially extend the statute of limitations in cases where acid or other noxious, corrosive agents
are utilized in assaults that are intended to cause disfigurement or grievous bodily harm. Given how that harm is life-altering, and intended to inflict lasting terror, no victim should ever be denied justice because of an arbitrary time limit.
Moreover, in the hope of providing an additional deterrent, I implore my colleagues to increase the criminal penalties that can be imposed on those who are found guilty of such egregious and depraved assaults.
As elected officials and public servants, our core responsibility is keeping the communities we represent as safe as we possibly can. That means using our platforms to stand with and support victims, advocate for justice, and ensure that the law is as comprehensive as it possibly can be.
As we allow the judicial process to play out and give Nafiah and her family the space, support and resources they need to heal, we have an opportunity to ensure that no future victim of such a horrific crime — God forbid that day comes — is ever left to wonder whether justice will be served before time runs out.
Carrié Solages, of Valley Stream, represents Nassau County’s 3rd Legislative District.
Meeting up with a seasonal celebrity after the Easter parade — Bellmore
