Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 04-23-2026

HERALD Franklin square/elmont

Ashley Plaia, Jeri Charles, Marie Brignati, Dawn Samuel, of Lynbrook American Legion Auxiliary Unit 335, and Nailynn Higuiccta, 7.

Annual military ball teaches young cadets

By HAIlEY FUlMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Dozens of young cadets took part in a formal military-style ball at the Elmont American Legion Post last weekend, gaining hands-on experience in leadership, etiquette and naval tradition through the American Legion.

The seventh annual military ball, hosted by the Elmont American Legion Riders on April 18, brought together students in the New York Naval Cadet Corps, a program for children in elementary through high school that teaches the customs and courtesies of the U.S. Navy. Cadets take part in leadership training and veterans ceremonies such as flagging graves and community memorial events throughout the year.

Big ideas, real change: Girl Scouts earn top honor

By HAIlEY FUlMER hfulmer@liherald.com

For many Girl Scouts, earning the Gold Award represents the culmination of years of dedication, leadership and service. But for members of Franklin Square/West Hempstead Troop 1268, the honor reflects something even deeper: personal initiative, resilience and commitment to meaningful change.

Three girls in the troop and four overall in the unit earned the prestigious award.

Unlike typical group Scouting activities, the Gold Award, the most prestigious award Girl

Scouts can earn, is an individual endeavor. Each Girl Scout must independently identify a community issue, develop a sustainable solution and execute a project that creates lasting impact.

Involvement and guidance from troop leaders, like Kim Gaudiosi, of Troop 1268, is intentionally limited, allowing the girls to seek their own personal initiative for the project.

“As troop leaders, we step back,” Gaudiosi explained. “Once they complete the prerequisite journey, the rest is on them. We can support if they need volunteers, but we don’t guide the project.”

Instead, each Scout works with a Gold Award mentor, assigned through her local council, who reviews proposals, provides feedback and ultimately approves the completed project. The process is rigorous, requiring more than 80 hours of documented work — though many Scouts exceed that significantly.

“They put in far more time than what’s required,” Gaudiosi said. “Every step has to be documented, from identifying the issue to proving the project is sustainable.”

That emphasis on sustainability sets the Gold Award apart. Projects cannot be one-

time events; the Scouts must demonstrate how their projects’ impact will continue after they step away.

For Gaudiosi’s daughter, Annie, a troop member and a senior at H. Frank Carey High School in Franklin Square, that meant tackling teen mental health — an issue that she’s witnessed firsthand affecting

her peers.

“I’ve always been a really big advocate of mental health, and I noticed that I was seeing a lot of kids in my school around me struggling a lot mentally,” Annie said, describing the inspiration behind her project.

She said she was excited to begin her Gold Award journey

Each spring, the Elmont American Legion Post hosts the military ball to give cadets a structured, real-world introduction to military customs in a formal dining setting, said Dawn Samuel, commander of CoNTiNUED oN PAgE 5 CoNTiNUED oN PAgE 10

Jason Thomas/Herald

The attendees included, clockwise from upper left, Pat Ryder, Debbie Hunt, Phoebe Ervin, Yvonne Brunner, Marie Marinaccio,

TPS bill backed by Gillen advances in House

Measure that would extend protections for Haitian immigrants through 2029 heads to the Senate

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

House Democrats secured enough bipartisan support last week to pass legislation to extend temporary protected status for roughly 350,000 Haitians living in the United States. Since Rep. Laura Gillen assumed office last year, she has backed a bill that would allow Haitian TPS holders legal status for three more years.

During a roundtable discussion in Elmont just days before the pivotal vote on April 16, Gillen acknowledged the limitations of temporary measures and pointed to broader legislative efforts, including bipartisan immigration proposals aimed at creating pathways to legal status.

The latest legislation would mark a transformational moment for TPS holders seeking clarity about their future. Haiti was first designated for TPS following a devastating 2010 earthquake, and ongoing instability has kept the designation in place.

Last week’s House effort, led by Rep. Ayanna Pressley and backed by Gillen and original co-sponsor Rep. Mike Lawler, secured the required 218 signatures earlier this month, triggering the House vote, in which it passed, 224-204.

“Our immigration system has been

broken for a long time,” Gillen said.

Mimi Pierre-Johnson, a community leader and activist in Elmont — home to one of Long Island’s largest Haitian populations — emphasized the importance of bipartisan support.

“This should be something that galvanized folks to understand it doesn’t matter about the people who’s trying to divide you, it’s what’s important to you, right?” Pierre-Johnson said. “So if your

neighbors that are going to work, paying taxes, you know, building a family, building a life, and the only thing stopping them from doing all of that is a piece of legislation.”

In January, Gillen signed a bipartisan letter urging the Trump administration to extend TPS for Haitian nationals ahead of the Feb. 3 expiration. She also met with White House officials to advocate for continued protections, efforts

that coincided with a federal court ruling issued one day before the deadline that preserved TPS.

Gillen reiterated the need for broader reform, noting the limits of temporary protections. She is also among the Democratic co-sponsors of the bipartisan Dignity Act, which aims to create a pathway to legal status for long-term U.S. residents.

Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, whose 22nd District encompasses Elmont, became the first person of Haitian descent elected to the New York State Legislature in 2012. Solages wrote in a statement that although the House vote should be applauded, progress “isn’t anywhere near the finish line” — referencing to the bill’s possible fate in the Senate and the likelihood of a presidential veto if it passes there.

“We may take this moment to rejoice at the progress made, but we cannot lose focus,” Solages said.

For advocates of the House bill, the push for TPS protections is about more than passing legislation; it reflects the realities of immigrant communities and the uncertainties they face.

The bill is now expected to move to the Senate for consideration, though a date for a vote has not yet been scheduled. Its aim is to protect Haitians who hold TPS through April 20, 2029.

Hailey Fulmer/Herald

Rep. Laura Gillen, left, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages at a roundtable hosted by Gillen at Le Spot Cafe in Elmont, where advocates gathered to discuss legislation that would extend Temporary Protected Status for Haitian immigrants.

Pierre-Johnson is running for another term

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Mimi Pierre-Johnson, founder of the Elmont Cultural Center and a longtime champion for the community, is running for re-election to the Elmont Memorial Library Board of Trustees. Drawing on decades of service, she remains deeply committed to strengthening education, expanding access for all residents, and ensuring the library keeps pace with evolving technology.

Serving on the library board for the past 12 years, she is running against Susan Saint-Joy, a former member of the Parent-Teacher Association in Floral Park.

Pierre-Johnson said her work has consistently centered on creating spaces that uplift the community through culture, inclusivity and civic engagement.

She has written and illustrated hygiene books in French and Creole while ministering in Haiti, according to her daughter, Tamar Paoli-Bailey. Additionally, she has served as Argo Civic president — securing grants for youth initiatives — and chaired the Elmont Beautification Committee.

“When I was entering elementary school, she wanted to ensure I had access to the best opportunities possi-

ble,” her daughter said of the Elmont community serving as a foundation for their family.

She said her mother’s commitment to service has been evident for decades.

Pierre-Johnson has helped guide decisions that shape both the physical space and programming of the library. Among those efforts are infrastructure upgrades, including a recent roof replacement and the planned installation of solar panels aimed at reducing long-term energy costs.

“We wanted to save money on electricity,” Pierre-Johnson referring to the decision to complete roof work before installing solar panels to avoid future costs.

Pierre-Johnson said those decisions reflect the board’s responsibility to manage taxpayer funding carefully while adapting to changing demands.

Looking ahead, Pierre-Johnson explained how one of the most pressing and complex issues facing libraries is the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on information accuracy and access.

She also pointed to program expansions designed to meet community needs, including the creation of a dedicated teen room, a sensory room for children with autism and expanded access to technology. The library now offers more public computers, something that was implemented in 2020, which ended up eliminating long wait times for patrons who rely on them for schoolwork, job applications and exams.

“There are many books that are authors that use AI,” she said. “And so for the library, we have a consortium where we get our books from — and they are not checking to see the authenticity of the books,” she later added.

She said that raises new questions about how libraries categorize and present materials, particularly as AI-generated content becomes more common.

As a result, she said the board has begun discussing whether libraries should create designated sections for AIgenerated materials, allowing patrons to make more informed choices while still engaging with emerging technology.

Pierre-Johnson emphasized that staying current with technology is essential,

particularly for younger patrons.

“There is a lot of the technology that is used in our libraries,” she said of ensuring the library stays up to date with surging advances with technology. She also noted that the library serves not only Elmont residents but also neighboring communities, making it a central hub for education and public discourse.

Paoli-Bailey pointed to her mother’s early work teaching literacy, mentoring youth and leading civic initiatives throughout Elmont, as well as her contributions on the library board, including serving on the scholarship committee and helping develop the library’s branding.

“Elmont deserves leadership with experience, integrity, and a proven commitment to service,” she said. “My mother embodies all of that.”

Paoli-Bailey added that her mother was part of a coalition that helped bring early voting to New York state and played a key role in establishing the library as an early voting site.

Pierre-Johnson said she plans to continue focusing on transparency, innovation and community-driven programming while ensuring the library remains responsive to both traditional needs and emerging challenges.

Saint-Joy seeks a seat on the library board

By HAILEY FULMER

hfulmer@liherald.com

Susan Saint-Joy, an educator, author and doctoral student in business management, has announced her candidacy for the library board of trustees at the Elmont Memorial Library and says that she hopes to strengthen community engagement, improve communication and expand programming that reflects local needs.

She is running against Mimi PierreJohnson, who has served on the board for the past 12 years. If Saint-Joy is elected, it would be her first time on the library board.

Saint-Joy’s campaign is rooted in her background in education, as an author and parent leadership. She worked in New York City’s District 75, a special education division, for more than 15 years, serving in roles ranging from teacher’s assistant to math teacher and classroom instructor across subject areas including psychology, business, marketing and sociology teaching at Monroe University and Five Towns College. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in education and is pursuing a doctorate in business management.

Her path to public service began through involvement in parent-teacher associations while living in Floral Park,

where she served in leadership roles focused on communication and family engagement. She said that experience reshaped her understanding of community leadership and motivated her to become more involved in civic institutions.

“I decided to write about my experience from a board member’s point of view because I don’t think that’s ever really been done,” Saint-Joy said about her book, Beyond the Bake Sale: The True Calling of the PTA President. “And even I thought prior to that, that it was just about fundraising and bake sales,” Saint-Joy said about the role of the PTA.

communication and livestreamed meetings to increase accessibility for residents unable to attend in person.

After moving back to Elmont with her family, Saint-Joy said she expanded her community involvement by attending library board meetings and becoming more active in civic discussions. She said she was struck by limited public participation and a lack of awareness about library governance, programming and elections.

Improving communication between the library and the community is a central theme of her campaign. Saint-Joy supports expanded outreach efforts such as newsletters, stronger digital

Saint-Joy, who has a 4-year-old on the spectrum, said it is especially important to her to expand programs designed for children with disabilities. She suggested starting with an IEP-focused workshop led by someone experienced in writing and interpreting the plans. Drawing on her background working with students with disabilities, she said many parents lack the knowledge to understand IEPs or effectively advocate for their children.

“A lot of parents don’t know how to read IEPs,” she said, explaining that her own understanding came from professional experience. She emphasized the need for workshops that explain terminology, outline parents’ rights and provide guidance on how to secure an advocate for meetings.

She also emphasized collaboration between the library and local school districts, particularly during testing seasons. Saint-Joy suggested programming such as study sessions and stress management workshops to help students prepare for standardized exams.

Community members have voiced support for her candidacy. Elizabeth Forbes, founder of the Gift of Giving Foundation, cited Saint-Joy’s dedication to service.

“She has always given to her community; now she’s ready to help lead it, bringing wisdom, compassion and purpose to every story yet to be written through the library,” Forbes said.

Qumyka Howell, a resident of Valley Stream, also expressed support, highlighting Saint-Joy’s consistency in civic engagement.

“For years, Susan has been a steadfast champion for her community,” Howell said. “Her passion for service and her commitment to creating meaningful change shine through in everything she does. She recognizes the library as a vital community hub and is devoted to ensuring it continues to thrive for all who rely on it.”

Saint-Joy said she supports increased use of community feedback tools such as surveys and structured input sessions to guide programming decisions and ensure residents have a voice in how library resources are allocated.

If elected, she said she would prioritize transparency, accessibility and resident engagement, with a focus on ensuring the library evolves alongside the needs of the community.

MIMI PIERRE-JoHnson

Protecting Your Future

Health Benefits of Forgiveness

Each one of us experience countless injustices in the course of everyday living. Like other experiences, it is not the experience itself so much that counts, but how you process it. The Mayo Clinic addresses the health benefits of “forgiveness” which they define as “an intentional decision to let go of resentment and anger”. Letting go of grudges and bitterness can lead to:

Everett Worthington, Profession Emeritus of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, provides a free workbook at for whom forgiveness may be difficult (most of

Recall: Recall the hurt. Look at the incident in an objective way and don’t try to push aside your feelings.

Empathize: Empathize with the offender without excusing the action or invalidating your own feelings. Maybe the person was having a bad day or was raised in dire circumstances.

forgiveness. Think about a time when you were rude or harsh, and recognize that everyone has shortcomings.

Commit: Make a decision to forgive. You can write a letter that you don’t send to help yourself make the commitment.

Hold:

how you react to those feelings will.

“Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned”

Honoring Espinosa and highlighting STEAM

At the April 14 board of education meeting, the Elmont Union Free School District hosted several presentations highlighting the strength and excellence of its schools and community members and programs across the district presented.

The family of fallen Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa, as well as her 5th Precinct colleagues, attended as honored guests. Officer Espinosa died in January after years of service to the Elmont community and school district was honored locally and widely.

“Her passing has left a profound void in our community,” Superintendent Marlon Small said during opening remarks. “She was more than a member of law enforcement; she was a trusted presence in schools and neighborhoods. A source of safety, compassion and guidance for students and families. She carried out duties with professionalism and heart, always placing well-being of students and community at center of her work.” The tribute reflected deep respect across the district community and schools.

The Stewart Manor School chorus honored Officer Espinosa with a performance of “Lean on Me,” guided by music

teacher Aidan Timko. Students from all six schools created handmade cards and messages of appreciation, which they presented to her family in a moving community tribute ceremony event.

Mr. Small and Board President Tiffany Capers presented Espinosa’s family with a posthumous Excellence in Community Service Award honoring her service. The award recognized a life of selfless service, integrity and strong commitment to the Elmont community locally.

Following the tribute to Officer Espinosa, the district highlighted STEAM initiatives and programs. Students from each school building shared details on new OHM BOCES science curriculum, New York State mandated science labs, STEAM enrichment classes, Lego Robotics and Science Research Club expanding student opportunities.

“As you can see, our Elmont students have many opportunities to experiment, to engage, enhance experiences across science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” Director of Curriculum and Instruction Pamela Stamidis said. –Hailey Fulmer

Courtesy Elmont Union Free School District

Superintendent Marlon Small and Board President Tiffany Capers presented Officer Espinosa’s family with an Excellence in Community Service Award.

American Legion teaching military values

the Nassau County American Legion, who commenced the event seven years ago.

From the moment cadets arrived, the event followed strict military protocol designed to mirror an authentic formal function. Cadets entered one by one, were announced, and then greeted a receiving line of veterans, with whom they exchanged salutes.

The purpose, Samuel explained, isn’t just ceremony, but preparation for life skills that go beyond the military setting.

“In a military function, you don’t sit down, you don’t find your seat,” she said, describing a military ball. “So what you have to do is socialize.”

To that end, cadets participated in a scavenger hunt-style activity that encouraged them to engage with veterans, ask questions and learn about their service. The exercise was designed to break the ice and build confidence for speaking with adults and authority figures.

Jason Thomas/Herald

Cadet members of the Color guard presented the colors to help kick off the military ball. from left were tessa francis, 14, raynier Vargas, 13, and Jack Ciro, 17.

Throughout the afternoon, veterans worked closely with cadets, pulling small groups aside to walk them through formal responsibilities. Those included the presentation of colors, Prisoners of War and Missing in Action (POW/MIA) recognition, and chaplain duties, such as the invocation and benediction.

A highlight of this year’s event was the singing of the national anthem by 7-year-old cadet Nailynn Higuiccta — the first time the anthem was incorporated into the program. Her participation reflected the program’s inclusion

News brief

Carrié Solages co-sponsers “Hoppy Hunt”

Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages joined forces with New York State Assemblymember Noah Burroughs and an array of community partners and sponsors to host the second annual Hoppy Hunt at Harold Walker Memorial Park in Lakeview on Saturday, April 4.

Children and families enjoyed a celebration featuring an Easter egg hunt with more than 2,000 eggs, photos with the Easter Bunny, painting Easter baskets, music from a DJ, games and contests, and more. Children also had a

chance to get some football pointers from Assemblyman Burroughs, who played for the New York Jets.

“As a father, I know how much our children look forward to Easter each year, and I’m excited for opportunities to bring our community together to celebrate during this deeply meaningful time of year,” Legislator Solages said. “It was my privilege to work alongside Assemblyman Burroughs and so many community partners to host this event.”

–Hailey Fulmer

received her vest in memory of her late grandfather, Paul Macchione, a former member of the Elmont American Legion Riders. The recognition honored his legacy of service.

Parents said the program has had a lasting effect on their children outside the program. “I feel that ever since I got my daughter involved in this, her attitude is more disciplined,” said Juliana Martinez, a parent of two cadets, Adrian Pico Martinez, 10, and Higuiccta.

Martinez said she has seen both of her children become more confident, social and responsible thanks to their participation in the program.

When keynote speaker David Vanderwerff, who served in the military as a sergeant and now a member of the American Legion, addressed the cadets, he focused on leadership traits that extend beyond military structure.

“A person of good character is honest, helpful, kind, productive, has good morals and is inclined to be well-liked,” Vanderwerff said.

of younger cadets in meaningful ceremonial roles alongside older students.

Two cadets were also formally recognized when they were presented with American Legion Rider vests, an honor recognizing selected youth participants. One of the recipients, Sadie Mae Grassi,

Now in its seventh year, the ball continues to grow, while maintaining its focus on discipline, leadership and hands-on exposure to military tradition. The program is designed to build confidence and responsibility in young cadets, preparing them not only for potential military service but also for leadership roles in any path.

CHARLOTTE WEBSTER EAST ROCKAWAY Senior SOFTBALL

ALREADY A TWO-TIME All-Conference selection, Webster appears well on her way to at least a third if not an All-County season. Heading into this week’s action, the Rocks’ fourth-year starting shortstop leads Nassau County in home runs with 6 and RBIs with 28 while batting .700 through nine games. Webster blasted a pair of homers against Baldwin on March 21 and repeated the accomplishment April 11 versus Freeport.

games to watch

Thursday, April 23

Flag Football: Oceanside at East Rockaway 5 p.m.

Flag Football: Bell-Merrick at Massapequa 5:30 p.m.

Friday, April 24

Softball: Clarke at Farmingdale 5 p.m.

Softball: Malverne at Uniondale 5 p.m.

Softball: North Shore at South Side 5 p.m.

Baseball:Calhoun at Long Beach 5 p.m.

Baseball: Elmont at Kennedy 5 p.m.

Boys Tennis: South Side at Hewlett 5 p.m.

Flag Football: East Meadow at Freeport 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Kennedy 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Clarke 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 25

Softball: Wantagh at Oceanside 10 a.m.

Softball: Hicksville at Long Beach 10 a.m.

Softball: West Hempstead at Lawrence 10 a.m.

Softball: Lynbrook at Freeport 10 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Herricks at Baldwin 11 a.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Roslyn at Long Beach 1 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: East Meadow at Oceanside 1 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Freeport at V.S. District 1 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Seaford 3 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Lynbrook vs Hewlett 6:30 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

Freeport topples Sewanhaka, 13-5

By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com

Sewanhaka and Freeport squared off in a Conference IV girls’ lacrosse bout last Friday, which extended Freeport’s win streak to two games as it beat the host Ravens 13-5.

The Red Devils were led by senior captains Julia Mendoza-Pinyero and Ava Smith. The pair combined for 11 of the 13 goals, with Mendoza-Pinyero netting six and Smith adding five in a performance that highlighted their chemistry and leadership.

“Those two, they can do it all,” Freeport coach Lauren Chimeri said. “This is their fourth year together and they just communicate so well. They’re leaders on the field, so the rest of the girls look up to them. They’re amazing.”

Mendoza-Pinyero scored the game’s first three goals in four minutes. She scored at 9:56, 8:59 and 5:45, but Sewanhaka was able to answer with two quick ones of its own. Junior Alexandra Salazar scored at 3:56 and 3:14 to pull within one.

“Alex thrives off the energy, so I think she felt the crowd,” Sewanhaka coach Brianne Giuliano said of Salazar. “She felt motivated and that’s how she got her two goals.”

Mendoza-Pinyero found the back of the net once more before the end of the first quarter at the 2:11-minute mark, to take a 4-2 lead after the first frame. It was all Red Devils in the second quarter, as Smith scored three and Mendoza-Pinyero notched one.

“We hadn’t found that team chemistry yet, we weren’t connecting as much, but we finally were able to find it and it all came together,” Mendoza-Pinyero said.

All four goals came in the final eight minutes of the first half: 8:05 from Smith, 4:00 from Mendoza-Pinyero and 3:27 and 1:05 from Smith.

“I think that we really came together as a team,” Smith said. “We just came off a good win on Wednesday, so I think that really brought us together, and we all hustled very well today. I’m proud of the team.”

Ravens junior Jade Young and junior

captain Athena Thomaidis each scored in the third quarter, with Young’s goal coming at 3:50 and Thomaidis’ coming at 2:43. Sewanhaka’s fifth goal came off the stick of junior Zoe Knibb in the fourth quarter. Sophomore Talia Bossous and Knibb have also carved out roles for themselves.

“For our progression, it shows me as a coach that we really do thrive off of the high energy,” Giuliano said regarding the team’s second-highest goal total of the season. “Going into this game, we were excited; it was a home game. I think going forward, this shows me that we are ready for the next competition. We’re going to keep

this energy up high.”

The other two goal scorers for Freeport (2-6) came from junior Jazline Bautista and Jolenny Gil Nunez. Freshman goalie Camila Rodriguez made “great saves,” Smith said, as she notched eight.

“She did great,” Chimeri said of Rodriguez. “She gets nervous in the beginning and then she steps in and does her thing. I think every day she gets a little bit better.”

Sewanhaka (0-6) will look for its first win this Friday on the road against Jerricho. Freeport has its sights set on a threegame win streak, but Island Trees stands in its way also on Thursday.

Sue Grieco/Herald

Sophia Gutierrez and the Ravens continue to make progess under first-year coach Brianne Giuliano

News briefs

Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District

John Street School sixth graders Justin Sabesan and Rayhan Poyyathuruthy, Polk Street School sixth grader Grace Stojanowski, and John Street School fifth grader Emilia Penagos Kalontarov are pictured with members of the Board of Education and district administrators on April 14. Andrew Spinelli was not in attendance.

Honoring service awards of students

Franklin Square Union Free School District proudly celebrated the artistic accomplishments of its students.

Polk Street School sixth grader Grace Stojanowski and John Street School fifth grader Emilia Penagos Kalontarov were recognized for their participation in the Creative Communication Poetry Contest, highlighting their creativity and dedication to writing. In December, students were given the opportunity to submit original work to Creative Communication: Poet-

ic Power to potentially qualify to be published in an anthology this coming fall. Stojanowski and Kalontarov each had their poems selected to be published.

John Street School sixth graders Rayhan Poyyathuruthy, Justin Sabesan and Andrew Spinelli were also honored for their Zentangle art project, in which they created intricate black-andwhite designs using marker and yarn.

–Hailey Fulmer

Where stories spark science for students

John Street School’s third and fourth grade students took part in a weeklong immersive learning experience led by Submerge Storytelling, a local enrichment company founded by Cory Levine, from April 13-17. The program invited students into the world of Emmy Sagan, a fictional middle school science prodigy recruited by NASA.

To set the scene, the school’s backstage was transformed into Emmy’s bedroom, filled with items such as mineral samples, Star Wars collectibles and a surfboard. Students

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explored the space in search of clues and hidden details that would help them make predictions and solve problems tied to Emmy’s mission.

During the final session on April 17, students conducted a detailed investigation of several minerals.

The Submerge Storytelling experiences enhances students’ professionalism and organization problem-solving skills.

–Hailey Fulmer

Undergraduate Open House

Saturday, May 2 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Garden City Campus

Register today to reserve your spot! Visit adelphi.edu/

or

Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District

John Street School fourth graders examined minerals during the last day of the Submerge Storytelling experience on April 17.

FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — April 23, 2026

FASNY sounds alarm for new recruits

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

As part of a statewide effort to address declining volunteer firefighter enrollment, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York launched its 17th annual RecruitNY campaign with a news conference and a live firefighting demonstration at the Melville Fire Department April 15.

The initiative comes as the number of volunteer firefighters across the state has dropped by roughly 33 percent over the past two decades, from about 120,000 in the early 2000s to 80,000 today — even as emergency calls continue to rise. Recent data compiled by FASNY shows a 16 percent increase in house fires and a 37 percent jump in overall fire calls over that time, putting added strain on departments.

“It is very important for all of our communities to understand that fire and rescue service is staffed by volunteers who are will-

ing to go out 24/7 and respond to medical and fire emergencies as needed,” the association’s president, Gene Perry, said. “While some departments are doing very well, others face challenges and are trying to get more people and younger people involved.”

Nearly 90 percent of fire departments statewide — including about 70 in Nassau and 100 in Suffolk — rely on volunteers, making recruitment a growing public safety concern.

As part of RecruitNY, departments across Long Island opened their doors for demonstrations and outreach events aimed at attracting new members. Officials said the effort is critical to maintaining staffing levels and emergency response capabilities.

At the Long Island kickoff, FASNY representatives joined local officials and firefighters to highlight recruitment efforts and encourage residents to consider volunteering. They also conducted a demonstration on how firefighters extinguish

dangerous car fires.

In a survey conducted by the association two years ago, 49 percent of New York residents expressed an interest in becoming volunteer firefighters. As well, 66 percent of respondents said they would visit their local fire station to learn more, and 55 percent reported that they would begin with an online search for information.

“What we need are more incentives to encourage people to volunteer, like tax

breaks on homes and priority for affordable housing for volunteers,” Assemblyman Steve Stern said. “These are critically important, but we need to go much further, and I want you to know that we see it and we hear it, because not having enough volunteers is a direct hit on us all — our families and our communities — and it puts our safety at risk.”

For more information on volunteering, contact your local volunteer fire department or visit fasny.com.

Carolyn James/Herald photos

Melville firefighters demonstrate procedures used in putting out a car fire safely at press conference April 15.

FASNY President Gene Perry speaks at press conference about the importance of recruiting more volunteers to local volunteer fire departments across the state.

Jennings focuses on reliability, cost as he leads PSEG Long Island pseg l.i.

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

Scott Jennings was appointed president and chief operating officer of PSEG Long Island in January, overseeing electric service for about 1.2 million customers. He joined PSEG in 1998 after starting at Deloitte, and held leadership roles in finance and energy investments. He helped develop PSEG’s Long Island agreement, leading to its 2014 launch, and most recently served as senior vice president of finance, planning and strategy. He earned a degree in business administration and an MBA in accounting from Pace University.

Q: From a business degree in accounting, how did you get into the power industry?

ScOtt JENNINGS

A: I started with Deloitte, and PSEG was one of my clients. The engagement showed me how critical the energy industry is to the overall economy and every family. At PSEG I’ve been able to see every part of the business as I moved into several different roles in finance supporting the overall company, and directly managed a number of our business areas.

Q: Having been involved in creating PSEG Long Island’s operating structure in 2014, how does that influence your current priorities?

BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE

A: Yes, it was a great experience to lead our pitch to LIPA to serve as the operator more than a decade ago, and I’m really happy to move out here and join and lead the PSEG Long Island team. I think this publicprivate partnership brings great value to the customers of Long Island. With the utility system owned by LIPA, they have access to FEMA funding to recover the costs of storms and support grants for investments, they don’t pay federal or state taxes, and they have access to low-cost debt financing. That’s real value. And then engaging a private company, like PSEG, brings the expertise to operate the utility efficiently and effectively. So my first priorities are aligned with that: leading the utility to bring value to our customers by providing strong reliability and customer service at an affordable price.

Q: Being responsible for PSEG-New Jersey’s high standard in the industry, how do you lift PSEG Long Island to that level?

A: Over our first 12 years on Long Island, we’ve made great strides — this is a very, very different electric system and process compared to the past. Reliability has greatly

improved — PSEG Long Island is now in the top 10 percent of the country for reliability, just behind our sister in New Jersey. We see this in fewer sustained outages, fewer momentary outages, and lesser impacts and quicker responses during recent storms.

Similar on the customer satisfaction front. When we took over in 2014, the Long Island utility had the lowest customer satisfaction in the industry. Since then, PSEG Long Island has been recognized as having the most improvement in the entire country, and was even ranked No. 1 in the 2025 J.D. Power Business Customer Satisfaction Study among large utilities in the East.

And finally I’d point to affordability. When we took over, Long Island electric rates were about the highest in the country. Since then, through good cost control, New York state actions on property taxes and LIPA refinancing its debt, our rates are now lower than our neighboring utilities in NYC and Connecticut.

So we’ve made great progress, and my focus will be to continue to improve our service while managing costs.

Q: From your 30 years of experience, what lessons are

most relevant as you take on this position?

A: It’s about putting the right people in the right positions and keeping focus on what is most important for customers: reliability, service and cost.

Q: Under your leadership, what does success look like, and how can PSEG Long Island help strengthen the L.I. region?

A: I look for success in two timeframes. First is the nearterm of maintaining continued strong reliability and customer service while managing costs effectively. The second is positioning the Long Island electric utility for long-term success. We’re making additional system reliability investments so the strong reliability performance we’ve recently delivered can be maintained. Similarly, we’ll be assessing our longterm energy needs and the generation supply needed to meet them reliably and affordably, while also balancing environmental considerations. These actions and more will position Long Island for reliable and affordable service for years to come, which will help support the region’s continued economic development and great communities for our families.

Franklin Square Girl Scouts earning gold

because it gave her the opportunity to focus on mental health advocacy, especially for teens who may be struggling but feel uncomfortable seeking help from professionals like therapists or guidance counselors. Her goal was to create a space where young people would always feel they had someone they could talk to.

Annie organized workshops at the Franklin Square Public Library, creating peer-based spaces where teens could connect and support one another. While turnout was sometimes smaller than expected, she adapted, finding value in more personal interactions.

“My whole kind of slogan of it was teens helping teens,” Annie said.

It can be intimidating for teens to open up to adults who may not understand their experiences, Annie said, adding that many feel more comfortable speaking with someone closer to their own age. She added that workshop participants reported stronger connections because the sessions were peer-led.

Her project also helped her grow personally, building confidence in leadership and public speaking — skills she plans to carry into a future studying criminal justice and psychology.

Another troop member Katherine Gilman, also a senior at H. Frank Carey took a different approach, focusing on education and equity in STEM. She founded a math research program at her school, advocating for advanced academic opportunities and expanding access across her district, including underserved schools.

Despite ongoing generational efforts, she said women significantly underrepresented in STEM, making up about 30%. Gilman explained that she created her club to be an inclusive, welcoming space where

girls feel encouraged and supported, rather than overshadowed by male peers.

“I personally recruited girls, and I encouraged them throughout the research process,” she said, adding that her club now has an even gender split, if not a slightly higher number of girls. Gilman also shared information about the gender gap on her website to inspire others across the country to start similar initiatives.

In addition, she presented her project to female math professors at local universities and connected with women in STEM through national organizations, including the National Girls Collaborative Project. “I got insights from them and shared them with my club members, as well as on my website,” she said.

She said the experience showed her how much she enjoys mentoring others, especially her club members and younger students she helped guide. “I really do love mentoring people,” she added.

Despite the collaborative spirit within the troop, each Scout maintained independence in her work, preserving the integrity of her individual vision. Still, they supported one another throughout the process and were recently recognized together at a school awards ceremony.

What makes their achievements particularly notable, Gaudiosi said, is how distinct each project remains.

“They’re so different, and that’s what makes it special,” she said. “It shows these ideas truly came from them.”

The projects that led the Girl Scouts to earn Gold Awards not only address pressing community issues but also set the foundation for continued impact long after their project is officially complete.

The Historical Society’s annual fundraiser

The annual fundraiser for the Franklin Square Historical Society at Plattduetsche Park served as both a community celebration and a major moment of recognition for longtime civic contributor Mathew Buck, who was honored as the 2026 Citizen of the Year.

The fundraising dinner last week brought together local elected officials, community leaders, trustees, and residents in support of the Historical Society’s mission to preserve and promote Franklin Square’s heritage.

A key theme throughout the night was appreciation for Matt Buck’s contributions, who is also the restaurant manager for the Plattduetsche. He was described as a steady presence in the community who has helped maintain and modernize the Plattduetsche Park facility while preserving its historic character. He was credited with supporting local organizations—such as youth sports, charitable groups, and civic events—by ensuring they had access to the venue and the resources needed to succeed. His recognition as Citizen of the Year was framed not only as a personal honor but as part of a long tradition of community stewardship.

Elected officials, including Assemblyman Ed Ra and Legislator John Giuffre offered congratulatory remarks and citations, emphasizing the importance of local history and the work of the Franklin Square Historical Society in

educating future generations. He was highlighted for the museum’s role in preserving Franklin Square’s identity and his efforts in maintaining the “oldtime feel” of the historic property while keeping it functional for modern use.

The event also underscored the importance of fundraising for the muse-

um’s operations. Proceeds from ticket sales, raffles, and donations help cover daily expenses such as utilities, insurance, educational programming, artifact preservation, and restoration work. Additional funds support planned expansions, including a classroom extension project, an initiative to fur-

ther educate young scholars of Franklin Square’s rich history.

Overall, the fundraiser captured the local history of the Historical Society and its role as a cultural anchor in the community.

Courtesy Sewanhaka Central High School District

Katherine Gilman was recognized as salutatorian for H. Frank High School during a Board of Education meeting in the fall. Gilman, who is heavily involved in STEM, has applied that passion to her Gold Award project.

–Hailey Fulmer

The Franklin Square Historical Society, founded in 1976, relies heavily on its trustees, pictured above, to help keep the museum’s operations smooth throughout the year.

Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos Mathew Buck, left, earning the person of the Year Award by the Franklin Square Historical Society earned a citation from Assemblyman Ed ra, right.

Pizza fundraiser sets record with $188,000

By CHRIS COLUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com

“Buy pizzas for charity” sounds like a funny idea until its real-world effect sinks in. Long Island Pizza Strong recently raised $188,000 with a one-day event taking place across the Island, supporting the family of Nassau County police officer Patricia Espinosa who was killed on Jan. 31 by an alleged drunk driver.

On Feb. 25, more than 300 pizzerias and restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk united to donate $5 for every pizza sold that day. More than 33,000 pizza pies, plus additional direct donations, led to the largest fundraiser in the organization’s three-year history.

“We dedicate and risk our lives for the communities we serve,” said Tommy Shevlin, president of the Nassau County PBA. “We don’t ask for much in return, but when tragedy happens to one of our own, to see how the community responded and supported us was truly remarkable and amazing. We’re so thankful and humbled by the support.”

As awareness of the charity’s influence has spread over the years, more restaurants across Long Island have joined the collective, swelling from almost 150 establishments in 2023 to more than 300 this year. Long Island Pizza Strong raised over $100,000 in its first year, after the Farmingdale High

School marching band bus crash. In April 2024, the charity raised just over $181,000 in memory of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller. An Oct. 2024 event

raised $105,000 after the West Babylon car crash which killed two teens. The organization performed no fundraisers in 2025 and returned to action to

offer support after Espinosa’s death. “It’s so hard to put into words, because you don’t know how to feel,” said Alyssa Guidice, co-founder of Long Island Pizza Strong. “Is it super-cool that we raised $188,000? Absolutely. But then you see this poor family and it’s just like, ‘I’m not happy about this.’ No amount of money is ever going to bring her back.”

Espinosa’s family is facing an added layer of difficulty regarding her maximum pension benefits. Because the nine-year veteran was killed while en route to work, and not technically during her shift, it’s not considered a death in the line of duty and her family is currently ineligible to receive special line of duty death benefits. A bill is currently working its way through the New York State Senate to potentially allow an accommodation and grant the family full benefits. “It hasn’t been done a lot,” explained Shevlin, “but it has been done for first responders in the past in New York State, related to the World Trade Center. It can be done. It’s case by case. It’s a very uphill battle.”

To further support Espinosa’s family immediately following her death, the Nassau County Police Hispanic Society created a GoFundMe on behalf of her husband, NCPD officer Francisco Malaga, and their 2-year-old daughter. It is currently active and has raised nearly $315,000.

Courtesy Nassau PBA

Officer Francisco Malaga, left, received the funds in memory of his late wife, Officer Patricia Espinosa. Alyssa Guidice, center, and Anthony Laurino — two of three Long Island Pizza Strong co-founders — presented the proceeds at the Nassau County PBA office in Plainview.

STEPPING OUT

Rooted in springtime Blossoming out at Planting Fields

By Abbey Salvemini

As spring moves forward towards its peak, Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay bursts into a vivid celebration of color, nature and community. This weekend, April 25–26, the inaugural Branches in Bloom Festival invites visitors to stroll beneath sweeping canopies of magnolias, cherry blossoms and other flowering trees.

Blending longstanding tradition with new experiences, the festival refreshes the site’s beloved Arbor Day celebration of years past. Guests can explore the historic estate in colorful bloom while enjoying guided tours, live entertainment and familyfriendly activities, making it an easy spring highlight for visitors of all ages.

The new festival is both a tribute and a transformation.

“Branches in Bloom is a reimagination of a 40-year-old tradition here at Planting Fields,” Communications and Marketing Manager Kayla Cheshire says. “It’s still in honor of Arbor Day, but now we’re really able to focus on our spring flowering collection, something thousands of visitors come to see each year.”

That shift is most visible in the festival’s new setting. Instead of hosting activities away from the colorful trees, organizers moved the entire event to the West Lawn, placing everyone directly among the site’s most stunning seasonal displays. That change will have an immediate impact, according to Stewardship Director Lilly McGurk.

“The focus on the spring blooms is really going to knock everybody’s socks off,” she says with enthusiasm.

The refreshed format also reflects a broader push to make the festival more engaging and accessible to all audiences. While hands-on tree education and environmental programming remain at its core, the expanded offerings are designed to be inviting for families, younger visitors and those discovering the grounds for the first time.

“We wanted to create something that feels contemporary and welcoming to all,” McGurk explains. “People are looking to get outside, enjoy nature and spend time together. This brings in that wellness aspect while still celebrating the environment.”

Over the course of the weekend, the festival

Harry Chapin’s Greatest Stories Live

blends learning with leisure, offering something for both the curious and the casual visitor. Guided tours led by expert horticulturalists, including Arboretum Director Vincent Simeone, provide behind-the-scenes insight into the site’s celebrated collections, while interactive demonstrations and displays offer practical inspiration for gardeners at every level.

Music, magic shows, jugglers and roaming performers keep the grounds buzzing with energy throughout the day. Anchoring the schedule are performances by Strummin’ and Drummin’ (spanning late morning into the afternoon), complemented by face painting, caricatures and a lineup of food trucks offering plenty of casual bites and treats.

For families, interactive experiences are a major draw. The Kids Tree Climb run by longtime sponsor Wonderland Tree Care + Landscapes returns as a centerpiece activity, giving children the chance to safely scale trees under professional supervision. Due to high demand, last entry is at 2:30 p.m. to ensure all finish by the 4 p.m. close.

• Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Admission is $30 per car, or if taking the LIRR to Oyster Bay, $5 per person (kids under 3 free); learn at plantingfields.org

• 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

Craft stations include simple coloring and imaginative projects like wearable “bee crowns,” designed to spark creativity and connect visitors to nature.

“We design activities with everyone in mind,” McGurk says. “There are things for kids, adults and families to enjoy together.”

The festival also underscores the broader mission of the Planting Fields Foundation, which works in partnership with New York State Parks, to preserve and maintain stewardship of the site. Beyond its celebrated horticulture, the organization continues to highlight the estate’s layered history, art and culture — threads that run throughout the programming and shape the visitor experience.

“There’s so much more here than just the plants,” Cheshire adds. “There’s history, there’s art, there’s culture. Events like this allow us to showcase all of that while making the site accessible to people of all ages and abilities.”

Accessibility remains a priority. This year, organizers pilot a shuttle from the Oyster Bay LIRR station making it easier for visitors from throughout the region to attend without a car. Supported by a state tourism grant through I Love New York, this expands the festival’s reach.

“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” Cheshire says. “This is about creating access not just to the festival, but to green space and nature in general.”

Even with its expanded offerings, Branches in Bloom remains firmly rooted in its Arbor Day heritage. Tree giveaways, educational exhibits, a plant sale, and environmental partnerships continue to anchor the festival, preserving its mission-driven focus while allowing it to evolve and resonate with a new generation.

With blooms in full display, immersive activities and a renewed focus on community connection, organizers aim for the festival to take root as a lasting seasonal celebration.

“It’s a new take on a tradition that means a lot to us. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing people together, celebrating the season and sharing this incredible place with as many people as possible,” Cheshire says.

In the long tradition of American roots music family groups, the Chapin family holds a distinctive place. Tom Chapin, Steve Chapin, Jen Chapin, and The Chapin Sisters (Abigail and Lily Chapin) are all accomplished artists with a shared commitment to family and music that connects deeply with audiences. Their performances together bring that spirit into focus in a powerful and personal way at this special concert honoring Harry Chapin’s legacy. Two generations of his family come together to perform his songs, joined by The Harry Chapin Band, featuring Big John Wallace and Howard Fields.His iiconic works are performed lwith the energy and intimacy they were written with in mind. In keeping with Harry’s lifelong commitment to fighting hunger, everyone is encouraged to bring nonperishable items, to be donated to a local food bank.

Friday, April 24, 8 p.m. $91, $71, $51. JLandmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Wild days in the Bronx

Chazz Palminteri returns with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his career. Raw, riveting and deeply personal, the play draws on his bruising childhood in the Bronx, including the moment — at just nineyears-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that forever shaped his world-view. Onstage, Palminteri inhabits 18 vividly drawn characters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, A Bronx Tale quickly became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after stage properties since Rocky. The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro—and later a hit Broadway musical.

Sunday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. The Paramount. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Photos courtesy Planting Fields

Photos: Visitors wander the West Lawn at Planting Fields as spring blooms frame a weekend of music, art and family activities.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR

Hofstra Spring Dance Concert

Hofstra University’s Department of Drama and Dance welcomes all to Spring 2026 Dance Concert. The performance features includes pieces by Hofstra faculty choreographers and guest artists. $15 general admission, $10 for seniors and Hofstra alumni.

• Where: Toni and Martin Sosnoff Theater, John Cranford Adams Playhouse, South Campus, Hempstead

• Time: 8 p.m., also April 24April 25

• Contact: hofstra.universitytickets.com

APR 24

Scott Litroff Jazz Trio

Join Dr. Scott Litroff, internationallyrenowned saxophonist and Adelphi University Senior Adjunct Faculty, as he performs a vibrant and lively concert on the Adelphi University stage. He plays contemporary/smooth jazz, fusion, funk, pop, and original works alongside some of the finest musicians in the jazz and pop scene today. Drawing upon his multiple influences from jazz, pop, and the classical arts, Scott is known for his impressive lyricism, improvisational prowess, and high virtuosity. It is sure to be a captivating evening as Scott and his band move and groove as they interpret the works of Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind, and Fire, Dave Koz, Gerald Albright, Kenny G, and others.

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000

APR

25

Community Prayer Breakfast

St. Catherine of Sienna holds a morning gathering where everyone come together for prayer, reflection and fellowship over a shared meal. It includes short inspirational messages, scripture readings, and opportunities for connection in a welcoming environment.

• Where: 33 New Hyde Park Road

• Time: 9-10:30 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 352-0146

‘Once Upon A Song!’

Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance at Elmont Memorial Library. In this latest production, the cast of 30, plus

MAY

George Thorogood and The Destroyers

ensure you are in time before the bus leaves. Park in the Alva T. Stanforth lot, just west of the library. Registration required.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke.

• Time: 10:15 a.m.-7:30 p.m.

• Contact: elmontlibrary.org or (516) 354-5280

MAY 1

Renaissance Jacmelienne De New York Fundraising Gala

Join in an elegant fundraising gala benefiting Renaissance Jacmelienne De New York. The evening includes dinner, live entertainment, and opportunities to support philanthropic efforts. The Renaissance Jacmelienne De New York remains dedicated to the rehabilitation and development of Jacmel, Haiti, following the 2010 earthquake.

• Where: 20 New Hyde Park Road, Franklin Square

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 984-1061

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

For the past five-plus decades, over 8,000 live shows and more than 15 million albums sold, George Thorogood and The Destroyers have been “The All-American Rock & Roll Party Band” (Goldmine Magazine). In celebration of 53 years of “playing rock ‘n roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps and flood the world’s major population centers” (Rolling Stone), the group continues The Baddest Show On Earth Tour — a stage-shaking, roofraising, guitar-snarling blast. For an artist whose music honors the blues, rock and country legends of the past, Thorogood’s forward momentum is now stronger than ever. And along with longtime Destroyers Jeff Simon (drums), Bill Blough (bass), Jim Suhler (guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), they continue “to slap a custom flame paint job onto those classic sounds” (Blues Blast Magazine) like never before. The band has lways delivered on their promises. In 1976, they debuted as the most explosive indie breakthrough act of the decade. Throughout the ‘80s/’90s MTV era, Thorogood was the epitome of snakeskin and shades guitar-slinger cool. And with chart-topping hits like ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’, ‘Move It On Over’, ‘Who Do You Love?’, ‘I Drink Alone’, ‘Get A Haircut’ and the ultimate badass anthem ‘Bad To The Bone’, the band soon became undeniable cornerstones of classic Rock. Meanwhile, their album catalog continues to dominate streaming charts worldwide.

special guests, keeps the action moving along, with a live band. The singers and dancers perform current hits, oldies and songs from the Broadway stage, including a tribute to Woodstock and a tribute to the musical “Wicked.” Free admission.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: licabaret@aol.com or (516) 946-7207

The Lovin’

Spoonful

Fondly known as “America’s answer to the Beatles,” the band brings their chart-topping folk-rock hits to the Madison Theatre. Formed in New York’s Greenwich Village, The Lovin’ Spoonful, made up of original band members John Sebastian, Steve Boone, Joe Butler, and Zal Yanovsky, exploded onto the charts sending their first seven singles soaring onto Billboard’s Top-10 virtually overnight. Their first single, “Do You Believe in Magic,” flew to the top of the charts, followed by an unprecedented string of hits. Today, The Lovin’ Spoonful tours with founding member Steve Boone, along with Jeff Alan Ross (Badfinger, Peter Asher), Bill Cinque (Neil Diamond), longtime drummer Mike Arturi, and Rob

Bonfiglio (The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson Band, Wilson Phillips).

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

APR

Broadway Goes

Hollywood

This musical revue at Elmont Memorial Library features songs that bridge the worlds of Broadway and Hollywood. The show highlights memorable musical numbers from stage and screen.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: elmontlibrary.org or (516) 599-6870

APR

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,” back at the museum by popular demand. With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the award-winning “Pigeon”

picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!), this show is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party! It’s not easy being the Pigeon— you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can finally do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also April 30-May 1

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

APR

Library Spring Bus Outing

Elmont Memorial Library hosts bus trip to Greenport. Kick oof spring to endure a day of exploring, shopping, and lunch. The cost for the trip is $170, which includes the coach bus and lunch. Arrive at the library before 10:15 a.m. to

Long Island Marathon Weekend

Get ready for a weekend of running, celebrations and more as the Jovia Financial Credit Union Long Island Marathon returns to Eisenhower Park, through May 3.

• Where: Eisenhower Park

• Time: Races on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at various times

• Contact: RunLongIslandMarathon.com

MAY

Tunes with Cody Childs

2

Elmont Memorial Library hosts pop-jazz vocalist Cody Childs. He performs songs spanning the 1950s through the present, accompanied by jazz guitarist Gai P.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke.

• Time: 12:30 p.m.

• Contact: elmontlibrary.org

Having an event?

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

Compiled By Herald Staff

Charlotte Jacobs Massapequa Park

I like to do doodles and to color with my mom and my sister. Sometimes my sister gets markers on my pictures, but that’s okay.

What is the best rainy-day activity when April showers hit?

Mackenzie Alessandro Glen Cove, age 11

I like to go to Claymation and paint.

Tim Baker/Herald

Charlie McDonald Rockville Centre, age 8

I like to go to the library and play on my iPad and look for books.

Tim Baker/Herald

Aviana Mannino Lynbrook, age 12

Calling my friends and playing Roblox and watching Hannah Montana.

Tim Baker/Herald

Alonnah Joggy East Meadow I love being in my room listening to the rain while playing music and falling asleep. Abbey Salvemini/Herald

Friday, April 24: Rides 6 PM - 10 PM Saturday, April 25: Rides 11 AM - 9 PM Sunday, April 26: Rides 11 AM - 7 PM

Vendors Sat. & Sun. 10 AM - 6 PM

April 23, 2026

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING, REGISTRATION AND ANNUAL DISTRICT

MEETING

SEWANHAKA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

ELMONT, FLORAL PARK, FRANKLIN SQUARE AND NEW HYDE PARK, IN THE COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK

NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to the Education Law, a public Budget Hearing of the Sewanhaka Central High School District of Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square and New Hyde Park in the County of Nassau, New York, will be held at Sewanhaka High School, within said district, on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that at the Annual District Meeting to be held on Tuesday, May19, 2026, a vote upon the propositions hereinafter set forth will be held at the times and places hereinafter set forth.

(a) Within the area of New Hyde ParkGarden City Park Union Free School District from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Michael J. Tully Park, 1801 Evergreen Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY.

(b) Within the area of Franklin Square Union Free School District, in the John Street School, Polk Street School and Washington Street School between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

(c) Within the area of Floral ParkBellerose Union Free School District from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the John Lewis Childs and Floral Park-Bellerose Schools.

(d) Within the area of Elmont Union Free School District from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at your designated polling place.

For the purpose of voting upon the following two (2) Propositions: Budget

RESOLVED, that the proposed budget of expenditures of Sewanhaka Central High School District of Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square and New Hyde Park, in the County of Nassau, New York for the year 2026-2027 for the purpose shown in the statement of estimated expenditures adopted by the Board

of Education, be and the same hereby is approved and the amount thereof shall be raised by a levy of a tax upon the taxable property within said Sewanhaka Central High School District, after first deducting the monies available from state aid and other sources as provided by law; and upon any other matter which might be properly brought before the Annual Meeting of the Sewanhaka Central High School District.

Capital Reserve Fund Expenditure Proposition

SHALL, the Board of Education of the Sewanhaka Central High School District of Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square and New Hyde Park (“District”), be authorized to appropriate and expend from the District’s “2025 Capital Reserve Fund”, heretofore established by the voters of the District on May 20, 2025, the entire amount of Fifteen Million Dollars ($15,000,000) plus any interest and investment earnings thereon, plus any remaining balance of the “2021 Capital Reserve Fund”, heretofore established by the voters of the District on May 18, 2021, approximately One Million Dollars ($1,000,000), to undertake and perform the following school building improvement projects, in whole or in part, and as more fully described on the District’s website, at no additional cost to the District taxpayers: install air conditioning in the high school auditoriums of Elmont Memorial, Floral Park Memorial, H. Frank Carey, New Hyde Park Memorial and Sewanhaka; renovate the guidance suite at H. Frank Carey, procure and install cafeteria furniture for all five high schools and; masonry repairs, HVAC, electric, plumbing, general exterior and interior renovations; all of the foregoing to include site improvements, furnishings, equipment, apparatus, machinery, demolition and other incidental work or improvements required in connection therewith, as well as preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto provided that the Board of Education shall determine the allocation of cost of each project within said maximum allocation amount.

NOTICE IS FURTHER

GIVEN, The voting will be by ballot on voting machines as provided by the Education Law and the polls will remain open during the hours above stated for each Component District and as much longer as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballots. A qualified voter shall vote within the election district of the Component District in which he/she resides.

The Sewanhaka Central High School District has been divided into thirteen election districts: one for New Hyde Park-Garden City Park; three for Franklin Square; two for Floral Park-Bellerose and seven for Elmont, numbered 16-1, 16-2, 16-3, 16-4, 16-5, 166, 16-7. The second portion of this number indicates the election district within Elmont.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law requires the School District to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on the District’s website.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified voters within each of the following school districts: New Hyde Park-Garden City Park Union Free School District, Franklin Square Union Free School District, Floral ParkBellerose Union Free School District and Elmont Union Free School District (each hereinafter referred to individually as a “Component District” and collectively as the “Component Districts”), the Board of Registration of each of said Component

Districts will meet as follows:

In New Hyde ParkGarden City Park Union Free School District, Wednesday, May 12, 2026, between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Manor Oaks-William R. Bowie School.

In Franklin Square Union Free School District, on Mondays through Fridays between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., when school is in session, in the Office of the District Clerk at 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, New York prior to May 14, 2026.

In Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District, registration will take place on May 6, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at John Lewis Childs School.

In Elmont Union Free School District, open registration in the office of the District Clerk on any school day, on or before Monday, May 11, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

In addition, the Board of Registration will meet in each election district between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

A qualified voter must present himself or herself in person for registration in the Component District in which he or she resides and in Elmont Union Free School District within the election district of such Component District in which he or she resides and the board of registration shall place his or her name upon the register provided he or she is known or proven to be such qualified voter for the district meeting or election for which said register is prepared.

If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law and has voted at any annual or special district meeting or election within the prior (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election. If the voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Immediately upon the completion of each register, said registers will be filed in the respective office of the District Clerk of each Component District, and will be open for inspection at all reasonable times thereafter by any

qualified voter of each respective Component District or of this school district as follows:

In New Hyde ParkGarden City Park Union Free School District, the register so prepared will be filed with the Clerk of the district and such register will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday in the Superintendent’s Office at the Manor OaksWilliam R. Bowie School, on each of the five (5) days prior to and on the day of election, except Saturday and Sunday.

In Franklin Square Union Free School District, in the Office of the District Clerk, beginning on Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., prevailing time, on Saturday by appointment only, on each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote.

In Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District, such register, upon its completion, will be filed in the District Clerk’s office, and will be open for inspection from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on each of the five (5) days prior to the meeting or election for which it was prepared, except Saturday and Sunday by appointment only.

In Elmont Union Free School District, in the Office of the District Clerk at the Elmont Road School beginning May 12, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on each day thereafter, including the day of the annual election, except that on Saturday the hours shall be 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and the school will not open for the said inspection on Sunday.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for early mail ballots and absentee ballots for said Annual District Meeting may be obtained at the office of the District Clerk of the Component District in which the voter resides beginning April 20, 2026 as follows:

In New Hyde ParkGarden City Park Union Free School District, in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, in the Manor Oaks-William R. Bowie School, 1950 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park, N.Y., on school days, between the hours of

9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The applications are also available on the New Hyde Park-Garden City Park District website.

In Franklin Square Union Free School District, will be obtainable during school business hours from the District Clerk. The application is also available on the Franklin Square District website https://www. franklinsquare.k12. ny.us/ under “voter information.”

In Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District, in the office of the District Clerk (Administrative Offices, One Poppy Place, Floral Park, New York), or by contacting the District Clerk by email, DistrictClerkforBOE@ fpbsd.org or phone (516) 434-2736. In Elmont Union Free School District, at the Office of the District Clerk, Elmont Road School, 135 Elmont Road, Elmont, N.Y. Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk of each Component District in which the voter resides at least seven (7) days before the vote/election if the absentee or early mail ballot is mailed to the voter, or the day before the vote/election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. No absentee or early mail ballot shall be canvassed unless it is received in the office of such District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026. No absentee or early mail ballot will be accepted more than 30 days prior to the election. A list of all persons to whom absentee or early mail ballots have been issued will be available in said office of the District Clerk of each Component District, beginning at least five (5) days prior to the vote/election during office hours as set by each Component District. Any qualified voter present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds by making their challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls. A challenge to an early voting ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an absentee ballot.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that pursuant to Education Law

Section 2018-d, any person serving in the military, including a spouse, parent, child or dependent accompanying or being with such voter, may register to vote in the upcoming school district election no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. A military voter who is a qualified voter may obtain a registration form by contacting the District Clerk of the Component District in which the voter resides as follows:

In New Hyde ParkGarden City Park Union Free School District, in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, in the Manor Oaks-William R. Bowie School, 1950 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park, N.Y, or on the New Hyde Park-Garden City Park District website www. nhp-gcp.org.

In Franklin Square Union Free School District, at the Office of the District Clerk at 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, N.Y., or on the Franklin Square District website https:// www.franklinsquare. k12.ny.us/ under “Voter Information.”

In Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District, at the Office of the District Clerk, One Poppy Place, Floral Park, N.Y., by telephone (516-434-2736), email (DistrictClerkforBOE@ fpbsd.org), mail (One Poppy Place, Floral Park, NY 11001), or in person (during regular office hours or between the hours of 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.).

In Elmont Union Free School District, at the Office of the District Clerk, Elmont Road School, 135 Elmont Road, Elmont, N.Y.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the Component District Clerk for information about accessibility.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that copies of the estimated expenditures of the Sewanhaka Central High School District during the school year 2026-2027 shall be completed at least seven (7) days prior to the date of the public hearing and will be made available upon request to residents within the district during the period of fourteen (14) days immediately preceding the Annual District Meeting at all of the high schools within the district, on the district website, as well as the elementary schools of the component districts, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on each day other than a Saturday, Sunday or holiday.

The boundaries of the seven (7) separate election districts and the voting places within the boundaries of the Elmont Union Free School District are as follows:

ELECTION DISTRICT 1. The place of registration and voting will be the STEWART MANOR SCHOOL, Stewart Manor, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point in the north line of School District No. 16 where the same adjoins School District No. 22 at the intersection of Third Avenue (which point is approximately 50 feet south of the south line of the main line of the Long Island Railroad); running thence along the boundary line between School District No. 16 and School

A military voter who is duly registered may apply for a military ballot by requesting an application from the Component District Clerk. Completed applications must be personally delivered or mailed to the Component District Clerk and received no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. Completed military ballots must be received by 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026, if signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto with a date which is not later than the day before the election, or not later than the close of polls on May 19, 2026 if postmarked or endorsed by an agency of the United States government. A military voter may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration form, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile or electronic mail in the request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Such designation will remain in effect until revoked or changed by the voter. If no preference is designated, the District will transmit the military voter registration by mail.

Public Notices

District No. 22 as it runs generally south, then generally east and again south crossing the Hempstead Branch of the Long Island Railroad; thence continuing east and south along such boundary line to Tulip Avenue; thence southerly along the Covert Avenue center line for about 100 feet and continuing southeasterly 100 feet south of and parallel to Tulip Avenue to the easterly boundary line of School District No. 16; thence continuing in a general northerly direction along the easterly boundary of School District No. 16 to the northeast corner of the School District; thence westerly along the northerly boundary line of School District No. 16 to the point or place of beginning.

In addition the said Election District shall include the following: a point commencing at a point on the boundary line between School District No.16 and School District No. 22 at the intersection of the center line of Memphis Avenue and a line about 100 feet North of and parallel to Chelsea Street; thence continuing easterly along this line to its intersection with the extension of a line midway between and parallel to Fredrick Avenue and Arthur Avenue; thence proceeding north easterly along said line to the boundary between School District No.16 and School District No. 22; thence north westerly along the said boundary line and continuing north westerly along the said boundary line to the point and place of beginning.

ELECTION DISTRICT 2.

The place of registration and voting will be the COVERT AVENUE SCHOOL, Elmont, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point midway between and parallel to Frederick Avenue and Arthur Avenue and proceeding south along this line to its intersection with the center line of Makofske Avenue; thence south in a straight line to the intersection of the center line of Hempstead Turnpike at a point midway between Emporia Avenue and Stone Street; thence continuing easterly along the Hempstead Turnpike center line to a point 100 feet west of Butler Boulevard; thence continuing southerly

along a line 100 feet west of and parallel to Butler Boulevard to a line approximately 100 feet north of Omega Street; thence easterly along the said line 100 feet north of and parallel to Omega Street to a line approximately 25 feet east of South Covert Avenue thence southerly along the said line 25 feet east of and parallel to South Covert Avenue to the intersection of an extension of the Elliott Street center line thence easterly along the Elliott Street center line to an intersection with the Sun Avenue center line; thence continuing along the Sun Avenue center line to an intersection with the Meacham Avenue center line; thence proceeding south along the Meacham Avenue center line midway between E Street and F Street; thence proceeding north easterly and continuing northerly along the District No. 16 boundary line to a point about 100 feet south of Tulip Avenue; thence proceeding in a northwesterly direction along a line about 100 feet south and parallel to Tulip Avenue to the center line of the District No. 16 western boundary where the center line of Covert Avenue and Tulip Avenue intersect; thence continuing on the boundary line, southeasterly, southerly and westerly on a line approximately 100 Feet south of Webster Street to a line midway between Fredrick Street and Arthur Street approximately 50 Feet south of the point or place of beginning.

ELECTION DISTRICT 3. The place of registration and voting will be the CLARA H. CARLSON SCHOOL, Elmont, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point midway between Emporia Avenue and Stone Street on the center line of Hempstead Turnpike; thence continuing easterly along the Hempstead Turnpike center line to a point approximately 100 feet west of Butler Boulevard; thence continuing southerly along the said line 100 feet west of and parallel to Butler Boulevard to a line approximately 100 feet north of Omega Street thence easterly along the said line 100 feet north of Omega Street to a line approximately 25 feet east of South

Covert Avenue; thence southerly along the said line 25 feet east of and parallel to South Covert Avenue to the intersection of an extension of the Elliott Street center line; thence continuing easterly along the Elliott Street center line to an intersection with the Sun Avenue center line; thence continuing along the Sun Avenue center line to an intersection with the Meacham Avenue center line; thence proceeding south along the Meacham Avenue center line to a point midway between Collier Avenue and Star Avenue; thence proceeding westerly on a line midway between Collier Avenue and Star Avenue to the boundary of Beth David Cemetery; to an extension of the easterly boundary of the Beth David Cemetery; thence north westerly along the northerly boundary of the Beth David Cemetery; then, northerly along the boundary of the Beth David Cemetery to a point midway between Emporia Avenue and Stone Street; thence northerly along the midway line between Emporia Avenue and Stone Street to the point or place of beginning.

ELECTION DISTRICT 4.

The place of registration and voting will be the ELMONT ROAD SCHOOL, ELMONT, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point in the boundary line between School District No. 16 and School District No. 22 at the intersection of the center line of Plainfield Avenue and a line approximately 100 feet north of and parallel to Chelsea Street; thence continuing easterly along this line to the intersection of Chelsea Street and Makofske Avenue thence south in a straight line to the northern boundary of Beth David Cemetery; thence westerly along the northern boundary of Beth David Cemetery to the center line of Elmont Road; thence northerly along the center line of Elmont Road to the intersection of Elmont Road and the Hempstead Turnpike; thence westerly along the center line of the Hempstead Turnpike to the intersection of the Hempstead Turnpike and Plainfield Avenue, thence northerly along the center line of Plainfield Avenue to the point or place of beginning.

ELECTION DISTRICT 5.

The place of registration and voting will be the GOTHAM AVENUE SCHOOL, Elmont, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point on the westerly boundary line of District No. 16 at its intersection with the center line of Hempstead Turnpike; thence easterly along the center line of Hempstead Turnpike to its intersection with the Elmont Road center line; thence south along the center line of Elmont Road to the extension of a line forming the northerly boundary of Elmont Memorial High School; thence westerly along said line to a point 25 feet west of Kirby Road north westerly to a point approximately 25 feet east of Rye Street northerly on a line parallel to Rye Street to a point approximately 25 feet north of Baylis Avenue to a point approximately 100 feet west of 4th Street; thence north to the southerly side of Hathaway Avenue west on a line formed by the southerly side of Hathaway Avenue to the north along the westerly boundary of School District No. 16 to the point and place of beginning.

ELECTION DISTRICT 6. The place of registration and voting will be the DUTCH BROADWAY SCHOOL, Elmont, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point on the Linden Boulevard center line where it intersects the Elmont Road center line; thence proceeding southeasterly along the Linden Boulevard center line and continuing on a projection of this line along the Southern State Parkway to its intersection with the District No. 16 easterly boundary line; thence continuing in a northeasterly direction along the District No. 16 easterly boundary line, to the intersection of Meachem Avenue and F Street; thence northerly along a center line of Meacham Avenue to a point approximately 20 feet northerly of Star Avenue; thence westerly along said line to the eastern boundary line of the Beth David Cemetery; thence southerly along the east boundary line of Beth David Cemetery; thence westerly along the south boundary line of Beth David Cemetery to its intersection with the Elmont Road center line; thence continuing in a southwesterly direction along the

Elmont Road center line to a line formed by the extension of the Northerly Boundary of Elmont Memorial High School; thence westerly said line to a point 25 feet west of Kirby Road; thence north westerly to a point 25 feet north of Renfew Avenue; thence westerly on a line approximately 25 feet north and parallel to a point approximately 25 feet east of Rye Street northerly on a line parallel to Rye Street to a point approximately 25 feet north of Baylis Avenue to a point approximately 100 feet west of 4th Street; thence north to the southerly side of Hathaway Avenue continuing west on a line formed by the southerly side of Hathaway Avenue to the western boundary of School District No. 6 and then south along the western boundary of School District No. 16 to the center line of Dutch Broadway; thence last along the center line of Dutch Broadway to the intersection of Dutch Broadway and Elmont Road; thence south along the center line of Elmont Road to the point and place of beginning.

ELECTION DISTRICT

7. The place of registration and voting will be the ALDEN TERRACE SCHOOL, Valley Stream, New York, with said Election District commencing at a point in the westerly boundary of District No. 16 at its intersection with the center line of Dutch Broadway; thence southerly along the westerly boundary line of School District No. 16; to the intersection of Elmont Road and Sobro Avenue thence southeasterly along the center line of Sobro Avenue continuing southeasterly then northeasterly along the boundary of School District No. 16 to the northerly side of the Southern State Parkway thence westerly along the Southern State Parkway to the center line of Linden Boulevard thence westerly along the center line of Linden Boulevard to the intersection of Linden Boulevard and Elmont Road thence northerly along the center line of Elmont Road to the intersection of Elmont Road and Dutch Broadway thence westerly along the center line of Dutch Broadway to the point or place of beginning.

The boundaries of the two (2) election districts located within the Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District are as follows: FIRST ELECTION DISTRICT. From the easterly side of Tulip Avenue and Jericho Turnpike, east to Keene Avenue, following the boundaries of U.F.S.D. 22, Northeast to Hillside Avenue and Cherry Lane, the Southwest side of Cherry Lane, even numbers from 34 to 284, to Jericho Turnpike, then South between Sycamore and Lewis Avenues, including both sides of Sycamore Avenue. Boundary continues south of Long Island Railroad Main Line along Easterly side of Floral Park Village Playground and Discharge basin to Hempstead branch of Long Island Railroad. Easterly to School District line south on Westerly side of Covert Avenue to Tulip Avenue, both sides of Tulip Avenue, Northwesterly to Birch Street. Birch Street Southwest to Carnation Avenue, all even numbers 6 through 68 on the Westerly side of Birch, then Northwesterly on Carnation Avenue, then to Tulip to Jericho Turnpike. Generally, with a few exceptions, parents of children attending John Lewis Childs School will vote in the First Election District.

The boundaries of the three (3) election districts located within the Franklin Square Union Free School District, are as follows: FIRST ELECTION DISTRICT: The place of registration and voting will be the John Street School Beginning at the point of intersection of the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the west side of Claflin Boulevard projected northerly to the center line of Hempstead Turnpike; thence easterly along said center line to the easterly boundary line of the school district; thence southerly and westerly along the said boundary line to the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the west side of Dogwood Avenue; thence northerly along said rear line to its intersection with the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the north side of Plato Street and the projection thereof easterly; thence westerly and along the said projection and the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the north side of Plato Street to the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the east side of Jefferson Street; thence northerly along said rear lot line and along the center line of the brook and projection thereof northerly to the center line of Naple Avenue, thence easterly along said center line to the projection southerly and the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the westerly side of Claflin Boulevard; thence northerly along said projection and the said rear lot line to the point or place of beginning (excluding Jackson Street).

SECOND ELECTION DISTRICT: The place of registration and voting will be the Polk Street School Beginning at the intersection of the westerly boundary line of the school district and the intersection of the center line of Hempstead Turnpike; thence easterly along said center line of

SECOND ELECTION DISTRICT. From the Easterly corner of 225th Street and Jericho Turnpike, east along the Northern border of the school district to Tulip Avenue and Jericho Turnpike. All the even numbers on Jericho Turnpike. This takes in the area of Bellerose Terrace and Bellerose south of Jericho Turnpike, Southeast on Tulip Avenue, to Carnation Avenue, then generally Southeast on Carnation Avenue to Birch Street, all the even numbers on Carnation Avenue from 2 to 342, then Northeasterly on the East side of Birch to Tulip, numbers 1 through 69, then East South to Tulip Avenue to Landau Avenue, South on Landau Avenue along District Line to Webster Street, West on Webster Street, both sides of Webster Street along the southern boundary of District 22 to 225th Street, then north to Jericho Turnpike, to place of beginning. The areas east of Birch Street on Aspen, Oak, Cypress Streets, and Carnation Avenue are included in the second district; Aspen Street from 155 to 260, Oak Street from 126 to 237, Cypress Street from 93 to 222, Carnation Avenue from 348 to 480. Generally, with a few exceptions, parents of children attending Floral Park-Bellerose School will vote in the second election district.

Hempstead Turnpike to the intersection of the back lot line of Claflin Boulevard; thence southerly along the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the westerly side of Claflin Boulevard to the center line of Naple Avenue; thence westerly along the said center line to the center line of the brook; thence southerly along said center line and the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the easterly side of Jefferson Street including properties fronting on Jackson Street to the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the northerly side of Plato Street; thence easterly along said rear lot line and the projection thereof easterly to the rear lot line of the properties fronting on the west side of Dogwood Avenue; thence southerly along said rear lot line to the southerly boundary line of the school district; thence westerly and northerly along the said boundary line to the point or place of beginning.

THIRD ELECTION DISTRICT: The place of registration and voting will be the Washington Street School Beginning at the northwesterly corner of the school district (at Fernwood Terrace); thence easterly along said boundary line to the northeasterly corner of the school district; thence southerly along the easterly boundary line of the school district to the center line of Hempstead Turnpike; thence westerly along the said center line to the intersection of the westerly boundary line of the district; thence northerly along said line to the point of origin. The place of registration in the New Hyde ParkGarden City Park Union Free School District will be at the Manor Oaks-William R. Bowie School, on May 12, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Voting will be at Michael J. Tully Park, 1801 Evergreen Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Only qualified voters who are registered to vote will be permitted to vote.

BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

Dated: February 24, 2026

Joanne Murnane District Clerk 159188

April 23, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notices

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

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

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 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

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR NEW CENTURY HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2005-C, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, Against

JEAN PIERRE FORTURE, REBECCA FORTURE; ROSE FORTURE, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/08/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 5/19/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 54 Biltmore Avenue, Elmont, New

York 11003, 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 Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Section 0032 Block 00426-00 Lot 36, 37, 38 and 139. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $437,474.19 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 602172/2020 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.

Brian Davis, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 3/19/2026 File Number: 19-302406 CA 159626

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU SACHEM CAPITAL CORP., Plaintiffagainst - EVAN E. BLUM, LESLIE BLUM AS TRUSTEE OF THE WALTER E. BLUM IRREVOCABLE TRUST DATED MAY 25,2018, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on October 30, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 14th day of May, 2026 at 2:30 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being near the Incorporated Village of Great Neck, Town of North Hempstead, State of New York. Premises known as 21 Brook Lane, Great Neck, NY 11023. (SBL#: 2-354-25) Approximate amount of lien $2,857,127.63 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 606957/2022. Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee. Mitchell Pollack and Associates, PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 150 White Plains Road, Suite 310 Tarrytown, NY 10591

Tel. 914/332-0700

Dated: March 23, 2026

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 159611

LEGAL NOTICE

Formation of GreyGreen Ventures LLC filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 4/6/2026. Office loc.: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address SSNY shall mail process to Simone Lowry, 159 Locustwood Blvd., Elmont, NY 11003. Purpose: Any lawful activity 159631

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking On Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 28th day of April 2026, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:

BALDWIN ROCKVILLE DRIVEwest side, starting at a point 120 feet north of the north curbline of Seaman Avenue, north for a distance of 22 feet.

(TH-78/26)

ELMONT

118th AVENUE - north side, starting at a point 50 feet east of the east curbline of 238th Street, east for a distance of 21 feet.

(TH-63/26)

HENDRICKSON AVENUE - west side, starting at a point 133 feet north of the north curbline of Burtis Place, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-81/26)

R STREET - north side, starting at a point 52 feet west of the west curbline of Arcadian Avenue for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-96/26)

FRANKLIN SQUARE FARNUM BOULEVARD - east side, starting at a point 436 feet south of the south curbline of Whiteside Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-65/26) LANGDON STREETnorth side, starting at a point 63 feet east of the east curbline, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-93/26)

ROOSEVELT GORMLEY AVENUEnorth side, starting at a point 152 feet east of the east curbline of Babylon Turnpike, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-82/26)

LONG BEACH AVENUE - east side, starting at a point 105 feet south of the south curbline of Centennial Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-92/26) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

ROOSEVELT GORMLEY AVENUEnorth side, starting at a point 92 feet east of the east curbline of Babylon Turnpike, east for a distance of 40 feet.

(TH-533/0910/05/2010) (TH-82/26) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: April 14, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Public Notices

JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 159765

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 05/06/2026 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.

234/26. ELMONT - 7Eleven # 44905, Renewal of grant to maintain one doublefaced, illuminated, detached ground sign with price sign attached thereto (not permitted); overall size 129 sq. ft. (64.5 sq. ft. per face); overall height 25’1”’ clearance 7’ from bottom of sign to grade; setback 3’ from side property line & within the clear sight triangle., W/s Elmont Rd., 106.05’ S/o Dutch Broadway, a/k/a 650 Elmont Rd. 243/26. FRANKLIN SQUARE - Catherine Ester Mendez & Ricardo Farfan Calle, Mother/Daughter Res. (2nd Kitchen)., S/s Fenworth Blvd., 100’ W/o Cleveland St., a/k/a 1007 Fenworth Blvd.

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00

P.M.

251/26. ELMONTPepperpot Restaurant & Bar LLC, Special exception to use part of existing premises for place of public assembly & amusement (DJ Booth); Variance in off-street parking., W/s Elmont Rd., 716.43’ N/o Central Ave., a/k/a 760 Elmont Rd. 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 & Franklin Square 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.

159759

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 34-2026

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 14th day of April 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 34-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 34-2026, to amend Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.

Dated: April 14, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 159766

LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO. 21527

RESOLUTION NO. 348-2026

Adopted: April 14, 2026

Senior Councilmember Goosby offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION

ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS.

WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 340-2026, adopted March 24, 2026, a public hearing was duly held on the 14th day of April 2026, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons:

ELMONT

LEHRER AVENUE - west side, starting at a point 110 feet north of the north curbline of Sweetman Avenue, north for a distance of 23 feet.

(TH-55/26)

UNIONDALE

MACON PLACE - south side, starting at a point 75 feet east of the east curbline of Uniondale Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-56/26) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons WEST HEMPSTEAD

OAK STREET - south side, starting at a point 207 feet east of the east curbline of Morton Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-324/24 - 9/17/24)

(TH-54/26)

GREENWAY SOUTHwest side, starting at a point 77 feet south of the south curbline of Greenway East, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-457/15 - 11/24/15)

(TH-75/26) ; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead, and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting. The foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Miller and adopted upon roll call as follows: AYES: SEVEN (7) NOES: NONE (0) 159772

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 35-2026

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 14th day of April 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 35-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 35-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: April 14, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 159767

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST FREDERICK BROWN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 27, 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 27, 2026 at 3:30 PM, premises known as 412 Keller Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 32 Block 537 Lots 56-58. Approximate amount of judgment $753,717.92 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604683/2023. Paul L. Meli, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-001586 89326 159707

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2007-19, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-19, Plaintiffagainst- ROSA QUINDE, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated March 5, 2026 and entered on March 24, 2026, 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 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Floral Park, County of

Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as SBL# 32-127-328. Said premises known as 4 CHILDS AVE, FLORAL PARK, NY 11001

Approximate amount of lien $1,227,851.05 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 609481/2024.

SCOTT H. SILLER, ESQ., Referee Pincus & Tarab Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 {* Elmont Herald*} 159690

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 625922/2025 COUNTY OF NASSAU

PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION

Plaintiff, vs. SADIA SAJID, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SAJID KHAN; SALMAN KHAN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SAJID KHAN; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF SAJID KHAN, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK

STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; MARIAN KHAN AS “JOHN DOE” #1, Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 62 SHERWOOD AVENUE, FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY 11010

Section: 35, Block: 39, Lot: 135 Defendants.

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $544,050.00 and interest, recorded on August 14, 2024, in Liber M Vol 47641 at Page 734, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 62 SHERWOOD AVENUE, FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY 11010. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: April 1st, 2026

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 159744

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 COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF10 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST DAPHNE SPENCE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 28, 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 21, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 1601-14 Johnson Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements

The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell has been recognized among the top medical schools for research, earning a Tier 2 designation in the 2026 Best Graduate Schools according to a U.S. News & World Report.

Zucker Med School earns top research ranking

The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell has been recognized among the nation’s top medical schools for research, earning a Tier 2 designation in the 2026 Best Graduate Schools rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.

The school ranked among the top three in New York and in the top half of medical schools nationwide for research excellence, according to the report.

The recognition comes amid a challenging funding climate for medical research, including reductions in grants from the National Institutes of Health. Research activity now accounts for 60 percent of a school’s overall ranking in the U.S. News methodology,.

Despite those pressures, the Zucker School of Medicine has maintained a strong research performance, supported by its academic programs and institutional partnerships.

U.S. News evaluates researchfocused medical schools based on faculty resources, funding and the strength of training programs for physician-scientists. At Zucker, MD/PhD and PhD programs emphasize the study of human disease, translational research and applying scientific discoveries in patient care.

A key component of the school’s research environment is its partnership with Northwell Health, the state’s

erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, State of New York, Section 32, Block 470, Lot 0026. Approximate amount of judgment $588,480.02 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615809/2018. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Michael J. Lange r, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive

largest health care provider. The affiliation gives students access to an extensive clinical network and advanced research facilities.

“We are incredibly proud that our dedication to impactful research has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report, amidst federal funding challenges,” said David Battinelli, the Deborah and Lawrence Smith dean of the medical school.

Battinelli said students “benefit tremendously” from research opportunities across Northwell’s system, including the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research.

Since opening 15 years ago, the Zucker School of Medicine has built a reputation for hands-on learning, innovative programming and a strong emphasis on research. Graduates have gone on to match into competitive specialties, including surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery

According to a nationwide survey conducted by the Association of American Medical Colleges, program directors report that Zucker graduates consistently exceed national expectations in professionalism, clinical skills and systems-based practice.

More information about the school and its research programs is available on its website.

–Abigail Grieco

NCC trustees file legal claim against SUNY

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The Board of Trustees at Nassau Community College has filed a formal legal claim against the State University of New York, escalating an ongoing dispute over the leadership of the college.

The Notice of Claim, a required step before initiating a lawsuit, challenges SUNY’s rejection of Maria P. Conzatti as the college’s permanent president. Trustees allege the decision was “arbitrary and capricious,” legally flawed and made outside the system’s authority.

According to the filing, the board appointed Conzatti as president on May 3, 2023, following what it described as a lawful process. Under New York State Education Law, local community college boards are responsible for selecting presidents, while SUNY’s role is limited to supervisory review.

Trustees contend that SUNY failed to complete that review in a timely manner, alleging the system did not conduct required interviews or take formal action for nearly three years. During that time, SUNY approved Conzatti to serve in multiple leadership capacities, including interim president, acting president and chief administrative officer, the claim states.

The college’s administration has remained firmly behind Conzatti, who was offered a five-year contract by the board in 2023, though that agreement has not received SUNY’s approval.

“The outcome we are looking for is for SUNY and the chancellor to make Maria Conzatti the permanent president,” Jerry Kornbluth, the college’s vice president for community and governmental relations told the Herald.

SUNY officials, however, said the presidential search process began in 2022 and included a committee made up of trustees, faculty, staff, students and community representatives. According to the system, that process produced

five finalists who were interviewed on campus, though Conzatti was not among them. SUNY has said the board ultimately selected Conzatti instead of the committee’s recommended finalists.

Kornbluth disputed that account, saying Conzatti was part of the broader candidate pool and ultimately selected through the established process. He said Conzatti was ranked sixth among candidates and was not among the initial five finalists, but that no finalist received enough votes to advance. As a result, he said, the process moved forward to additional candidates, including Conzatti, who was ultimately chosen.

“The five candidates were all interviewed by the board, and no candidate received enough votes to move forward,” Kornbluth said.

Kornbluth also said Conzatti was unanimously selected by the board and that her name was forwarded to the SUNY chancellor in accordance with the process.

A SUNY spokesperson defended the system’s position, calling the legal action without merit.

“SUNY is committed to excellent leadership for all of our campuses and we will vigorously defend ourselves against this frivolous lawsuit that seeks to harm efforts to provide the worldclass education and job preparation that New York community college students deserve,” the spokesperson said.

Despite the dispute, Kornbluth said the college’s operations have continued without disruption. “We’re not taking our foot off the pedal,” he said. “We’re moving everything forward that we’re supposed to be doing. This is just a little bump in the road.”

The board is seeking judicial relief to overturn SUNY’s decision, arguing that the rejection undermines local governance and destabilizes leadership at the college.

Herald file photo

The Nassau Community College Board of Trustees has filed a legal claim against the State University of New York, escalating an ongoing dispute over leadership.

Herald file photo

HomesHERALD

Rare Beachfront Gem

I don’t have a permit yet, but I do have an impatient contractor

Q. I have been through a year of permits. My architect warned me it could take this long, but I didn’t believe them. My neighbor did the same addition and told me it would only take a few weeks for a permit, but then I learned they didn’t even get permits, and I’m really wondering if I should have done the same thing. I follow your column and can now attest to what you’ve been saying. We had to get a zoning variance, and it took many, many months certainly not a few weeks. Now we’re right at the end, and I’ve been assured by the building department that we’re “almost there.” Funny thing is, I still don’t have a permit, and my contractor is ready to move on to another project if we don’t start now. Should I just get started, to keep my contractor, knowing I’ll have the permit soon, or will there be problems if I do?

A. Getting started ahead of having a permit in hand is problematic. A licensed professional should never advise someone to deviate from an ordinance, law or building code. This issue ties directly into my last two columns about the New York state campaign to “Let Them Build.” Delays are costly. Between fuel increases and tariffs, every day makes a difference when it comes to the cost of construction.

Building authorities won’t directly tell you that you could start without your permit, even if the permit is almost there. They do, however, have a method referred to as a “maintain” permit, where they recognize work that was already done and review it with an increased fee, in most cases. By doing so, they’re accommodating people to start construction without permits, even if they wouldn’t say so. It’s understandable that you feel you’re doing everything right, and shouldn’t be penalized for having done so, and therefore want to just start, already.

When you look over at your neighbor’s home, you may be compelled to follow their example, but remember, they, or some owner of that property in the future, will still have to file with building plans, even after the fact. When that happens, the building codes may have changed, or things that they did may not be compliant and will need reconstructing. This isn’t always the case, but when a professional is called to figure out what someone constructed and then to draw plans, after the fact, they find things that don’t always work out smoothly. It isn’t uncommon, when plans haven’t been reviewed and permitted, to find structure undersized, room sizes and ceiling heights smaller than allowed, not enough windows or the wrong-sized windows to meet light, ventilation and fire escape requirements, and more.

You’re doing this project the right way, and even though nobody will tell you that you can just start, there seem to be ways to condone your doing so.

Good luck!

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

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.

Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

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

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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opinions

The tumor was malignant — but then it was gone

Three years ago this week, I had what I’ve called my “unexpected medical adventure.” As I described to readers then, it was a life-altering experience with a very good ending.

It all began innocuously enough, with a routine endoscopy for acid reflux in the summer of 2017 by my gastroenterologist, Dr. Michael Barth. As expected, the procedure turned up nothing, and Barth simply prescribed a medication, which I took regularly. Over the next few years, I had few symptoms, and put off my fiveyear follow-up endoscopy.

Finally, at Barth’s insistence, I scheduled another endoscopy in March 2023. I had no concern. Just closing the loop. Just another test guys my age go through. Imagine my surprise when I woke up from the procedure and Barth told me that he’d found a protrusion in my stomach wall. While he thought it was benign, he recommended that I see Dr. Arvino Trini-

dade, a specialist at Northwell, who scheduled a biopsy at Long Island Jewish hospital.

Melissa Zimmerman, a retired Nassau County Police Department detective who’d been on my security detail when I was in Congress, offered to drive me and Rosemary to the hospital. Before I was taken into the operating room, Trinidade told me he thought there was nothing there. But when I woke up, he told me there was a tumor, and it was probably malignant. Four days later, Barth and Trinidade called to confirm it. But they were confident of a good outcome, and told me the surgery would be done at LIJ by Dr. Matthew Weiss, a premier cancer surgeon.

iWABC-AM studios in Manhattan and attended a political dinner at King Umberto’s in Elmont. I told almost nobody about the upcoming surgery. With a day to go, I began a liquid diet, with Jell-O being the closest thing to solid food.

’ve become more aware of those who receive more severe diagnoses than mine.

That afternoon, Weiss called and told me I should be confident of complete success. He casually told me to “enjoy the weekend.” That evening, Rosemary and I had dinner at an Italian restaurant in Manhattan with Zimmerman and her husband, Lance.

The following week, I had appointments at Northwell, saw my cardiologist in Manhattan to get his sign-off on the operation, did several radio shows at the

Early Monday morning, Zimmerman again drove us to the hospital. By 6:30 I was ready for showtime. Lying on a gurney with an intravenous tube in my arm, I was wheeled into the operating room, a science fiction-style enclosure crowded with doctors, nurses, bright lights and a table filled with knives and scissors. An epidural was painlessly inserted in my spine, and an anesthesia mask placed over my face.

The next thing I knew, I was in the recovery room, and Rosemary was telling me that Weiss said that all had gone well. I had no significant pain — unless I moved or reached for something. Each day the pain receded, and I was able to walk a little more. When I was discharged the following Saturday, I walked from the hospital to the car.

At home I was able to eat regularly, felt nothing more than soreness at the

incision site and, after a week or so, was outside, walking a few more blocks each day. As the doctors had predicted, all follow-up tests showed complete success. I recounted much of this to readers at the time. Now, having had three years to reflect and put it all in perspective, I appreciate more than ever how fortunate I’ve been: Barth urging me to get the “routine” endoscopy; Trindade and Weiss being ultimate professionals; and having strong family support from Rosemary; my son, Sean; my daughter, Erin; and my sister, Barbara, who’s a nurse. There were also the friends who took the time to visit me in the hospital or call to wish me luck.

I’ve also become increasingly aware of the many people who receive much more severe diagnoses than I had, which do not end well. I was also fortunate to have access to outstanding medical care at a first-rate hospital. (To the naysayers and critics, I didn’t have any congressional or federal health insurance.) I’m also grateful that I broke loose from the traditional Irish suspicion and distrust of doctors and hospitals. Yes, I’m a lucky guy!

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Trying desperately to avoid the stress of TV news

These nearly two months of war in Iran have me, and countless others, more on edge than we have ever been. The idea that a conflict in the Middle East could become World War III is very unsettling. When a war is that far away and the parties themselves have a long history of bickering, our lives become unsettled, and we need diversions.

To blot out the talking heads on Fox, MS Now and CNN, I found myself looking for other distractions beyond my work as a government-affairs specialist. I watched some sports events, tuning to NCAA baskeball’s Final Four, hoping to relax. To my surprise, those games could ruin your sleep if you watched every upset. I was rooting for St. John’s, and when the junior point guard Dylan Darling sank a driving, buzzer-beating layup to beat Kansas and send the Red Storm to their first Sweet 16 in 27 years,

I almost fell off my chair.

A lot of the other games had surprise endings, and when the final ended with a Michigan victory, I realized that watching the tournament wasn’t the best way to avoid nail-biting. So I turned to other sports, and anything that would distract me from all the news about the Israelis killing Iranian leaders one by one. I got some initial relief watching a women’s pro hockey game between New York Sirens and the Seattle Torrent at Madison Square Garden. It was nice to watch a no-nonsense game that attracted a record crowd of 18,000 .

pages unnerved me, when he lavished praise on the recently ousted attorney general, Pam Bondi.

s t. John’s basketball. Women’s hockey. Testing Negative for Stupid — and more.

I also watched the women’s basketball national championship. There were quite a few nervous moments until the final game, when UCLA won its first national title.

Then I decided to do some casual reading, and started with Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy’s new book, titled “How to Test Negative for Stupid, And Why Washington Never Will.” Most of its 224 pages are a lot of fun, thanks to Kennedy’s folksy humor, but the last 30

Rather than move on to a new book, I turned my attention to my streaming television services, Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, in the hope of finding some feelgood movies. When I opened them up, they offered me such calming films as “Supernatural,” “Scream,” “Send Help,” “Sinners” and “The Substance.” I know there are other offerings, but most of the feel-good movies are old and I’ve already seen them. All my life, I’ve loved good comedy. I cherish the great old names like Jackie Mason, Henny Youngman, Buddy Hackett, Jerry Lewis, Jackie Gleason, George Carlin, Don Rickles and Lenny Bruce. Occasionally I stumble on one of these legends on Facebook, and try to share their comedy with people around me. Regrettably, there are no comedians these days that give me the same belly laughs that I got from those giants. My grandson in Los Angeles heads up a unit of Netflix that promotes a number of comedians, but I haven’t adapted to their new style.

So where do I go for some badly needed diversion? I’m a devout Knicks and Yankees fan, but there’s no way I can get a Knicks playoff ticket without paying big dollars. I love going to Yankees games, too, but their tickets are getting pricier, so I limit my purchases to no more than three games. I enjoy watching major golf tournaments, but sometimes you feel as if the announcers will put you to sleep with their commentary. I am looking forward to the U.S. Open in June, though.

Some of us are lucky to have hobbies that help us escape the pressures of today’s headlines. I love writing and making speeches, but neither lulls you into a peaceful state of mind. Short of moving to Antarctica, where I imagine you can avoid the daily news horrors, I’ll keep trying to find some other relaxing activity. I still watch TV for the weather reports, but goodbye to the other channels.

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.

Playground safety for kids requires vigilance

as spring returns and families stream back to neighborhood parks, playgrounds quickly reclaim their place as a focus of community life. They are where children test their limits, build confidence and simply enjoy being kids.

But beneath that joy lies a sobering reality: More than 200,000 children, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, are injured on playgrounds each year in the United States — many in ways that are preventable.

That’s why National Playground Safety Week, April 20-24, should be treated as more than a symbolic observance. It is a necessary prompt for parents, caregivers, schools and local officials to refocus on safety as playground use surges.

Playgrounds were never meant to be spaces for careless behavior. In fact, they were created with safety and development in mind. In the 19th century, educators such as Friedrich Fröbel promoted the idea of structured play as essential to childhood growth, helping to instill cooperation, coordination and social skills.

As cities grew more crowded and streets more dangerous with the rise of motor vehicles, playgrounds became protected environments where children could play away from traffic and other hazards. Early efforts by civic groups and park advocates helped establish designated play areas as a public safety measure — a mission that still resonates today.

In the U.S., the Outdoor Recreation League funded the building of playgrounds on parkland after newspapers reported on the high number of children run down by cars in New York. One of the first recreational areas in America was built in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park in 1887.

Yet even within these safer spaces, risks remain — especially after months of winter wear and limited use. Equipment may have loosened, surfaces can degrade, and aging structures may no longer meet modern safety standards. The playgrounds’ young users, meanwhile, return with pent-up energy, eager to climb higher and move faster than conditions safely allow. Caregivers often distracted by cell phones only add to the challenge.

Preventing injuries doesn’t require diminishing the joy of play, but does require managing the environment around it. The National Program for Play Area Safety is a nonprofit organization that emphasizes practical, researchbased strategies that communities can adopt. Chief among them is active, attentive supervision. Its “ABC” model — Anticipating hazards, Behaving in ways that guide safe play and Considering the unique needs of each playground — makes clear that safety is not passive. It is intentional.

The program builds on a 30-year initiative started at the University of Northern Iowa to help communities and organizations ensure safe, high-quality

playgrounds. It promotes best practices grounded in research, guidelines and standards while collaborating with agencies at the local, state, national and international levels.

Equally important is age-appropriate design. When younger children use equipment meant for older users, the risk of falls and misuse increases. Clear guidance and thoughtful layout can help families make safer choices without limiting exploration.

Communities must also prioritize proper surfacing and regular inspections, particularly in early spring. What lies beneath a child’s feet can determine whether a fall results in a minor scrape or a serious injury.

Safety extends further still. Accessibility ensures that all children can benefit from outdoor play, while attention to thermal comfort — such as shaded areas and heat-safe materials — helps protect children from high temperatures.

National Playground Safety Week offers a timely reminder, but it should also serve as a starting point. The original purpose of playgrounds — to give children a safe place to grow, learn and play — demands ongoing attention.

A quick inspection, a watchful eye and a renewed awareness can go a long way. With thoughtful action at the start of the season, communities can ensure that playgrounds remain what they were always meant to be: spaces of safe discovery, not preventable harm.

Matters

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.

We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

LLong Island’s ‘hidden workforce’ has visible needs

ong Island’s “hidden workforce” of family caregivers faces very visible challenges. The term is frequently used to describe family caregivers who, while not employed by our health care system, play a critical role in it. They don’t wear uniforms or ID badges, but this massive workforce of more than 329,000 Long Islanders provides over 307 million hours of unpaid care, valued at $5.7 billion, per year, according to AARP New York data released in February. Nationally, nearly one in four American adults provided ongoing care to an adult or child with a complex medical condition or disability in the past year, a 2025 report, by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, found. Almost 25 percent of those people reported giving more than 40 hours of care per week, the equivalent of a full-time job, for free. Taking on the unpaid labor of love of caring for a family member can be both extremely rewarding and enormously straining. Emotionally, caregivers may struggle with stress, anxiety, guilt and social isolation. Physically, they may

increase their own health risks with the stress and exhaustion of helping loved ones with daily activities they can no longer manage alone.

Financially, that can cause hardships such as reduced work hours, loss of employment or new debt to cover care-related expenses, especially for middleaged people balancing their caregiving responsibilities with the demands of jobs and raising children.

Like all workers, family caregivers need breaks, but they frequently forgo their own needs to prioritize someone else’s. Repeatedly making this sacrifice, while well-intended, is ultimately detrimental for both them and their loved ones. Self-care is a necessity, not a luxury.

w

hen it comes to caregiving, Rosalynn Carter couldn’t have said it better.

The workload is even greater for the 60,000-plus Long Island families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related illness. Roughly 80 percent of people living with dementia receive care at home, primarily from unpaid family members. Along with assisting with medication management, bathing, dressing, transportation, meal preparation and financial oversight, dementia family caregivers also face unique challenges caused by the disease’s impact on a person’s memory, behavior and independence. Sufferers may forget who their loved ones are, manifest personality changes like agitation, aggression and hallucinations, and wander from safety. Their caregivers face higher risks of anxiety, depression, burnout and declining quality of life.

Framework by Tim Baker

One of the most important things caregivers can do is take advantage of support resources. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free caregiver support groups at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville, where people caring for loved ones with dementia can connect and share with others who are going through similar experiences. Caregivers can learn more and register by calling the Center at (631) 223-4000. AFA also has a free Helpline — (866) 232-8484 — that provides caregiver support seven days a week.

Nassau and Suffolk counties’ Offices for the Aging are available to provide support and guidance to family caregivers about local, state and federal assistance programs. Local nonprofit organizations, libraries and religious institutions often have caregiver services available, which can include support groups, educational and training pro-

grams or financial assistance.

Finally, don’t be afraid, reluctant or embarrassed to ask for, or accept, help. Seeking help is a sign of neither weakness nor failure; it is an essential step toward sustaining the ability to care for a loved one. Other relatives or friends are often eager to help but don’t know exactly how; embrace these offers and explain specific things that would be helpful, such as spending time with the person so you can run errands, assisting with meals or providing transportation. Offering options allows the volunteer to decide what they are comfortable doing, while ensuring that it’s something that will be helpful.

If you know someone who’s a family caregiver, check in on them periodically and offer your help. Seemingly little things can make an enormous difference.

Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, a lifelong caregiver advocate, once said, “There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” Her words reinforce the crucial need to support and prioritize Long Island’s “hidden workforce” that all of us will either be part of or depend on one day.

Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and a Merrick resident.

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