Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 05-28-2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

HERALD Franklin square/elmont

Elmont celebrates

Haitian Flag Day

The Elmont community kicked off Haitian Flag Day with a vibrant and colorful parade hosted by the Elmont Cultural Center, bringing residents together to celebrate Haitian heritage, culture and pride. The event filled the streets with waving Haitian flags, music, dancing and an atmosphere of unity. Above, Mimi PierreJohnson, president and founder of the cultural center, exulted as the festivities began. Below, 7-year-old Carlee BanatteWhitefield made her allegiance clear as she joined in the spirited celebration. Story, more photos, Page 10.

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

A long-discussed vision for a community center in Elmont is inching closer to reality, as local officials and community leaders begin planning for a new YMCA facility that supporters contend could become a major hub for recreation, youth programming and community services in the area.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced plans for the Elmont community center project in April as part of the Belmont Park redevelopment plan, which originally called for a 10,000-square-foot facility on the racetrack campus. She is putting $2.5 million in state capital funding into the project, which is administered through the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.

development agency, approved an off-site location in Elmont instead for the community center. The YMCA of Long Island has since signed a contract to purchase the property on 570 Elmont Road and plans to demolish an existing vacant structure to build a roughly 18,000-square-foot community center.

The project recently received approval for land acquisition, supported by a $2.5 million capital grant administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.

MIcHAELLE SoLAgES Assemblywoman

Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, who represents New York’s 22nd Assembly District, said the YMCA project has remained one of her top priorities for years, driven by what she described as a longstanding need for a dedicated community gathering space in south Elmont.

Following community feedback, Empire State Development, New York’s economic

She said she worked closely with the UBS Arena and the

Continued on page 9

Deliah Roberts/Herald photos

Das Bock Festival returns to Plattduetsche Park

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

A crowd of beer enthusiasts filled the grounds of Plattduetsche Park as the Das Bock Festival opened for the afternoon, with festivalgoers moving from vendor to vendor, sampling a variety of beers and settling in to enjoy the German-inspired atmosphere.

The annual festival, held on May 17, is organized in partnership with the New York State Brewers Association and Plattduetsche Park, a longtime regional venue known for hosting cultural festivals, large community gatherings and seasonal celebrations. The event serves as a spring counterpart to Oktoberfest-style festivities, highlighting traditional bock and lager beers tied to Germany’s historic spring brewing traditions.

It’s always a strong turnout, especially when the weather is good.

MAtHEw BUck, Plattduetsche restaurant manager

Chris Cuzme, one of the vendors at the festival and founder of Fifth Hammer Brewing Company, said his brewery was founded about eight years ago with his wife, Mary, who is also a brewer, along with a longtime

brewing partner. He said his brewing background dates back more than two decades.

He explained that the brewery’s name is inspired by the story of Pythagoras and early ideas of musical harmony, where different weights striking together produced distinct tones. The concept, he said, reflects a broader philosophy centered on individuality and not conforming to a single, uniform pattern.

Matthew Buck, restaurant manager at Plattduetsche Park, said the festival has become a staple spring event that continues to grow each year. He noted that attendance has steadily increased as more guests become familiar with the seasonal format and brewery lineup.

“We’re expecting around a thousand peo-

ple or more. It’s always a strong turnout, especially when the weather is good,” Buck said.

Buck added that the festival originated from smaller beer events hosted years ago before evolving into its current format through a partnership with the New York State Brewers Association. Over time, the timing was also adjusted to better align with spring weather and brewery availability, helping the event expand in both scale and recognition.

Paul Leone, executive director of the New York State Brewers Association, said the organization serves as a statewide trade group representing New York’s craft beer industry, which now includes more than 500 breweries.

BELMONT PARK VILLAGE

“This is our presence on Long Island. We work with breweries across the state to showcase New York beer,” Leone said.

Leone said the association organizes festivals across New York as part of its mission to promote local breweries, expand distribution opportunities and introduce smaller upstate producers to downstate markets. He said Plattdeutsche Park was selected for its capacity, layout and longstanding history of hosting large-scale community events.

The Das Bock Festival continues to expand each year, reflecting both the steady growth of New York’s craft beer industry and the rising popularity of seasonal beer festivals that celebrate traditional European brewing styles.

Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos

The annual German-inspired festival expected hundreds of guests to fill the grounds of the Plattduetsche.

Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos

Chris Cuzme, founder of Fifth Hammer Brewing Company, pours beer for attendees during the annual Das Bock Festival at Plattdeutsche Park on May 17.

A vibrant parade marked Haitian Flag Day

The Elmont Cultural Center celebrated Haitian Flag Day with a parade on May 18 honoring Haitian national identity and culture. The parade featured themed floats, performances by Central Park Rara, the Flexx Band and other entertainers, showcasing Haitian art, fashion and music throughout the community. Designer Santia McKoy, of Florida, spent several months creating many of the costumes featured in the parade. Among those in attendance were U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, Legislators Carrie Solages and Cynthia Núñez, and Councilman Tom Muscarella. Town of Hempstead Parks Supervisor John Ferretti and Kadeem Brown also rode on one of the parade floats.

–Hailey Fulmer

To help bring vibrant visuals to the parade, designer Santia McKoy created many of the costumes featured in the celebration.

Deliah Roberts/Herald photos U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen marches in the parade alongside Rara of Central Park, a traditional Haitian street music procession that performs during cultural celebrations.

The Banatte family proudly waves Haitian flags in celebration of the culture and heritage.

Dressed in matching outfits inspired by the Haitian flag, from left, Aishleen Cadet, 8, and Aaliyah Pierre Louis, 11, celebrate Haitian pride during the parade.

Julissa Duchatellier, full of Haitian pride, currently holds the title of Ms. Long Island US Nation 2026 and is dedicated to empowering women through her platform.

Erline Dorsainvil proudly sing’s Haiti’s National Anthem to commemorate Flag Day.

Inheritance Protection Trusts Keep Assets in the Family

Subtitled “The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half”, this book reﬂects the natural progression of our desire to increase our lifespan (the number of our years), to increasing our healthspan (the number of our healthy years), to increasing our joyspan (the number of our joyful years). The author deﬁnes joy as an inner feeling of well-being or contentment, as opposed to happiness, which comes and goes, often according to external circumstances.

Burnight writes, “To thrive in old age means to live a fulﬁlling, purposeful, and satisfying life despite the challenges of aging. It involves maximizing physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, social connections, and a sense of meaning. Thriving doesn’t mean being free of all health problems or challenges, rather, it emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the ability to ﬁnd joy and value in life.”

Research shows that those who thrive late in life:

Grow: They continue to explore and expand

Connect: They put time into new and existing relationships

Adapt: They adjust to changing and challenging circumstances

Give: They share themselves

As a Professor of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Dr. Burnight was struck by the radical difference in how people experienced their own aging process. “For some it is a frustrating, degrading, painful trajectory of ever-increasing decline. For others, there is visible delight, spirituality, and joy in occupying their eighth, ninth, and tenth decades.”

The thieves of joy are (1) comparison with others (2) frustration with health and mobility limitations (3) feeling like you are a burden (4) feeling heartbroken over the loss of a loved one, and (5) feeling defeated as if your best days are behind you. Nevertheless, she says, “Like the sun, joy is always there. But when it’s hidden by clouds, we mistakenly say it’s gone. Joy is resilient and can break through the clouds because it’s an innate part of the human experience.”

“One might say that following this doctor’s prescription will increase your “joyspan” and decrease your “oyspan”!

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

American Legion Riders host annual bike blessing

A warm Saturday afternoon set the tone at Elmont American Legion Post 1033, where the Elmont riders hosted their annual Bike Blessing, bringing together riders, veterans and community members from across Nassau County and the Long Island region for a day centered on tradition, fellowship and service.

Sal Martella, 79, started the Elmont riders 14 years ago as the first member.

Motorcycles had lined the post grounds and the street as riders continued to arrive throughout the afternoon on May 16. The community gathered outside for a grill lunch, connecting with fellow riders and supporters in a relaxed, community-focused setting.

Kadeem M. Brown, a candidate for Nassau County Legislature, and Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre attended the blessing in support of the riders, veterans and community members in attendance. Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips also was present, showing her support as well.

Chris Beckhans, who attended the bike blessing, is the president of Long Island ABATE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on motorcycle safety, rider education and advocacy. The organization continues to promote rider rights, oppose legislation viewed as unfair to motorcyclists and support charitable initiatives benefiting veterans and local community programs. He spoke about their ongoing mission to protect riders while expanding outreach and fundraising efforts.

ELMONT FUNERAL HOME INC.

Members of the Fighters of Fire Motorcycle Club also took part in the blessing. The club, composed of active and retired firefighters and other emergency responders from Nassau County and the New York area, emphasized community service and a shared passion for motorcycling.

Dawn Samuel and Debbie Tierman are the only women riders with the Elmont Post 1033 American Legion Riders. Both have been riding for several years and said they continue to value the experience, especially as part of a small group of women within the post’s riding community.

— Hailey Fulmer

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Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos Helping lead the prayer for the bike blessing, is Legion Rider Dawn Samuel, left, and Deacon Bruce Burnham of Freeport church.

Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos Elmont American Legion Riders gathered on a Saturday afternoon for their annual bike blessing to kick off the spring riding season.

Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos Ralph Chiesa, a member of Fighters of Fire of New York Motorcycle Club, is ready to ride his Harley-Davidson.

Students step inside Belmont Park history

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Fourth-grade students from Alden Terrace Elementary School recently visited Belmont Park Racetrack for a hands-on field trip that introduced them to the history and daily operations of one of the region’s most historic horse racing venues.

The field trip on May 20 gave students an inside look at the racetrack many pass every day without fully understanding what happens there. Belmont Park has been part of the community since 1905 and was one of the earliest racetracks in the region during a time when New York City and Long Island were home to several racing facilities.

Robert Hines, community affairs manager for the New York Racing Association, said the goal of the visit was to help students better understand a landmark that has long been part of their community.

“For them to grow up right here, they drive by every day, but they have no idea what’s going on,” Hines said.

The educational field trip first started with students from Gotham Avenue Elementary School before expanding to additional schools, with fourth graders visiting the track in groups throughout the year.

During the visit, students learned about the history of the property, the

Fourth graders at Alden Terrace Elementary School visited Belmont Park Racetrack, where they experienced what it is like to be at the starting gate during a horse race, sprinting from the line as the gates opened.

role horse racing has played on Long Island for generations and the work that goes into maintaining the horses such as safety. Students were also told that roughly 1,500 horses are currently housed on the backstretch, where trainers, caretakers and other workers prepare horses for races.

Students also met workers from several areas of the property, including Tim Kelly, who oversees safety procedures involving horses and riders at the racetrack. Kelly taught students about the protective equipment used by the riders and horses, as well as how horses

At one stop during their tour of Belmont Park Racetrack, students learned about the equipment and procedures used to help keep horses and riders safe during racing.

are identified on the grounds.

Another stop on the tour featured veteran blacksmith and farrier Joe Campbell, who demonstrated how horseshoes are made and repaired.

Campbell, who has worked at the track for 56 years, told students he is a third-generation farrier and explained the process of shaping metal into corrective horseshoes used on racehorses.

Using heated steel and specialized tools, Campbell demonstrated how horseshoes are molded by hand. He explained that the metal must remain extremely hot to be shaped properly.

Campbell told the Herald that the most rewarding part of his job is seeing the students enjoy the experience.

“It was funny, a guy said to me, ‘What do you get paid?’” Campbell said. “Every kid that has a smile on their face, that’s paid enough. It’s paid in full.”

As students gathered around watching sparks fly and horseshoes take shape, the field trip provided a closer look at the craftsmanship and traditions of the behind the scenes of horse racing highlighting Belmont Park as an important part of local history.

Courtesy Robert Hines

Hailey Fulmer/Herald photos

Elementary students at John Street explore spring cubs

Throughout the spring months, students at John Street School have been actively exploring and developing their interests through a variety of afterschool clubs.

From learning the strategies of chess to strengthening their scriptwriting skills, tending gardens outdoors, and creating delicious dishes in culinary arts, these programs offer something to spark every student’s curiosity and creativity.

Recently, the Culinary Club, also known as Cougars Culinary Creations, prepared no-bake Oreo truffles as part of their spring-themed menu. Students worked together to mix the ingredients and roll the truffles by hand, with each student taking home two finished treats. The club has focused on fresh spring flavors, creating desserts such as berry cheesecake cones, strawberry pie and other no-bake specialties inspired by the season.

Meanwhile, the Outdoor Gardening Club has been hard at work in the school’s courtyard, planting tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, green beans, celery and basil. Students also planted marigolds to naturally help deter insects from the vegetables, along with a pollinator garden designed to attract butterflies and bees.

— Hailey Fulmer

Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District Outdoor Gardening Club students, led by adviser Paige Chambers, planted marigolds, green beans and a pollinator garden on May 14.

Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District Culinary Club students, led by advisers Gabriella Constantino and Jean D’Aurio, made no-bake Oreo truffles on May 14.

Courtesy Office of U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen hosted an information session with school superintendents to discuss the threat of fentanyl and synthetic drugs in local schools and communities.

Laura Gillen talks drug threats with Nassau superintendents

U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen hosted an information session with Nassau County school superintendents and Frank Tarentino, associate chief of operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Northeast Region, to discuss the threat of fentanyl and synthetic drugs in local schools and communities.

The discussion focused on efforts to combat fentanyl, carfentanil, xylazine and other illicit drugs, while also highlighting resources and opportunities available through Gillen’s office for students and schools.

The meeting included presentations from Tarentino and Larry Lamendola, co-chair of the Levittown Community Action Coalition. Lamendola, an addiction treatment advocate, has worked to raise awareness about fentanyl poisoning since the death of his daughter in 2019.

“The danger we face from the fentanyl, carfentanyl, xylazine and other illicit drugs trafficked into our communities cannot be overstated. Their capacity to kill is terrifying,” Gillen said. “After meeting with the frontline warriors at the DEA who are combating this scourge, I saw the critical need to make sure our neighbors, schools and students are informed about this threat. I’m grateful to DEA Associate Chief of Operations Taren -

tino, activist Larry Lamendola and our school superintendents for their partnership in fighting to protect our youth and neighbors.”

In addition to discussing public safety and student wellness, Gillen encouraged school leaders to connect students with programs available through her office, including the Congressional Art Competition, the Congressional App Challenge and this week’s Military Service Academy Information Session.

Gillen also highlighted her work in Congress to support law enforcement and combat drug trafficking, including helping pass the HALT Fentanyl Act and supporting increased funding for the DEA through the fiscal year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Act. Gillen recently visited New York’s divisional DEA lab to hear about its work supporting law enforcement and keeping illegal drugs off the street.

Participating school leaders included representatives from Hempstead, Rockville Centre, Lynbrook, East Meadow, Baldwin, Valley Stream, Uniondale, Roosevelt, Oceanside, Malverne, Lawrence, Island Park, East Rockaway, Chaminade High School and Evergreen Charter School.

––Jordan Vallone

FREE SUMMER CONCERTS

Sunday, June 7th

FUN LOVIN’ CRIMINALS AND BLESSID UNION OF SOULS

Thursday, June 11th - 6:00pm

Senior Afternoon Concert

featuring Amber Ferrari and Debra Toscano

Thursday, June 18th

Juneteenth Celebration – Earth Wind & Fire Tribute by D’votion, Gospel Choir and DRIFT featuring members of TAUK and MJT

Friday, June 19th - 3:00pm

FIFA World Cup Watch Party USA vs. Australia

Monday, June 22nd - 6:00pm

Senior Afternoon Concert

The Chiclettes and Vinnie Medugno

Friday, June 26th

The Allmost Brothers BandAllman Brothers Tribute, Sons of Skynyrd –Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute

Saturday, June 27th

FREESTYLE MEETS SALSA –featuring BRENDA K. STARR, TITO PUENTE JR., TKA/K7, JOEY CRUZ, LA SONORA 495 AND FOREVER FREESTYLE BAND

Sunday, June 28th

REGGAE NIGHT WITH INNER CIRCLE, WAYNE WONDER AND IRIEspect

Thursday, July 2nd – 5:30pm

TD PRESENTS CELEBRATE AMERICA

FIREWORKS & DRONE SHOW with Live Music By: Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom Rock

Friday, July 3rd

Fireworks Rain Date

Thursday, July 9th

Oldies Night with E’stefano DiSanto, Johnny Farina, Bobby Wilson, Vito Picone & The Elegants and The Brooklyn Bridge

Saturday, July 11th

Disco Unlimited

Thursday, July 16th

Harry Chapin Day – Corey Rieman and The Dilemma Band with Scarborough Fair - Simon & Garfunkel Tribute

Saturday, July 18th

Simply Stapleton –Chris Stapleton Tribute

Sunday, July 19th - 6:00pm

Last Exit – Pearl Jam Tribute Foo For All – Foo Fighters Tribute

Thursday, July 23rd

LANIE GARDNER & BROOKE MORIBER

Friday, July 24th

ZBTB – Zac Brown Band Tribute and Guys with Guitars

Saturday, July 25th - 6:30pm

JEFFERSON STARSHIP, ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION, FIREFALL AND PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE

Sunday, July 26th - 4:00pm

Family Day On The Lake, featuring Beauty and The Beat, Princesses and wide-ranging entertainment for children and families

Thursday, July 30th

3 Decades Rewind

Rock Hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s

Friday, July 31st

Half Step – Grateful Dead Tribute

Saturday, August 1st

SALUTE TO VETERANS with Desert Highway – Eagles Tribute and American Bombshell

Sunday, August 2nd

Lovesong – 80s New Wave Tribute

Thursday, August 6th

THE OUTLAWS

Friday, August 7th

COLE SWINDELL

Saturday, August 8th

Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway

Monday, August 10th - 6:00pm

Senior Afternoon Concert

Gerry Ferretti and the Mutant Kings and Jenna Esposito

Thursday, August 13th

Neil Diamond Tribute

Friday, August 14th

Swingtime Big Band

Saturday, August 15th

MIDTOWN MEN

ORIGINAL CAST OF JERSEY BOYS

Thursday, August 20th

Let’s Sing Taylor – Taylor Swift Tribute

Friday, August 21st

LOUD LUXURY with OPENING BY DJS CAFFEINE ACADEMY, DJ DENNIS THE MENACE AND JUST JOE

Sunday, August 23rd

WORLD RENOWNED PUERTO RICAN SALSA ORCHESTRA

Thursday, August 27th

Long Island’s American Idols featuring Constantine Maroulis, Kevin Covais and Robbie Rosen with Special Guests

Friday, August 28th

Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute

Monday, August 31st FLO RIDA

Tuesday, September 1st ZZ TOP

Thursday, September 3rd THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET

Friday, September 4th LOS LOBOS

Saturday, September 5th

Streetfighter – Rolling Stones Tribute, Who’s Next – The Who Tribute

Israeli Elite hockey comes to UBS arena

With late third-period rally, Jerusalem Capitals capture Challenge Cup, defeating HC Tel Aviv 6-5

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

No matter who scored, fans throughout UBS Arena jumped to their feet, waving Israeli flags, proudly cheering on competitors from the Israeli Elite Hockey League last week during the Challenge Cup championship between the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv. In a thrilling game, the Capitals mounted a late comeback to win 6-5.

The Challenge Cup, originally scheduled for February but postponed because of a blizzard, finally brought the two teams together on the ice in Elmont for a hard-fought game.

The atmosphere inside the arena on May 17 felt like more than just a hockey game. Families packed the stands dressed in blue and red, and there was loud chanting and spirited flag-waving throughout the crowd, creating a strong sense of pride and unity among fans celebrating both the sport and Israeli culture.

“It’s nice when you get to see support a lot for Jews and the country,” said spectator Hillel Kober, who was rooting for HC Tel Aviv.

Brooklyn resident David Silverberman said the game provided a comforting atmosphere amid a culture of rising antisemitism. “It’s a good game,” he said.” It’s very competitive scoring, but not too much. The fans are into it. It’s an exciting day, and you know, if you’re Jewish, there’s so much antisemitism going on right now, it feels very comfortable to be here. It’s nice to see the families too.”

The IEHL, founded in 2020 and approaching its sixth season this summer, was founded by Marc Brunengraber, a former goaltender for the Israeli national team. Brunengraber said the league was created not only to develop hockey talent in Israel, but also to highlight another side of the country.

“The goal is to raise Israel from the world championship Division II level to Division I,” Brunengraber said. He added that the league aims to positively represent Israel beyond the conflict-focused narratives that often dominate coverage of the country, emphasizing that its citizens continue to live everyday lives as ordinary people.

The championship game was intense from start to finish, marked by heavy physical play, shifting momentum and a UBS Arena crowd that fed off every moment of drama. Tel Aviv controlled play for much of the first two periods, keeping Jerusalem players on their heels and forcing them to fight just to stay within reach heading into the third.

Capitals player Nathanel Peretz described the surreal feeling of stepping onto the ice at UBS Arena.

“There’s kids growing up dreaming of this moment, and you’re seeing Jerusalem against Tel Aviv, and a bunch of Jewish people just playing the sport they love,” he said.

Peretz admitted that the locker room atmosphere was tense after the second period with Jerusalem trailing by two goals. “It’s the second year that we [were down by] two goals going into the third,” he said. “We trusted our coaches, we trusted our captain, we trusted our players, and we got out there in the third.”

Late in the third period, the Capitals suddenly took over. Two goals came just seconds apart, and suddenly Tel Aviv was scrambling to keep up. The energy in the arena flipped instantly as fans rose to their feet, and the game intensified dramatically in the final minutes.

Capitals head coach Craig Brunengraber said the team had to manage intense emotions to complete the comeback. “You have a lot of strong personalities,” he said. “At the end of the day, we won the game, and that’s the hardest part about being a coach.”

He also praised Peretz’s performance, saying, “Peretz is all heart and soul. He shows the world he can do this on a world stage.”

Despite the loss, Tel Aviv captain Mike Gennello reflected on the broader meaning of the game. “Guys can get on the ice and it can be an absolute war out there, and then we get off and it’s all smiles,” he said.

As Jerusalem celebrated its comeback victory on the ice, fans throughout the arena remained standing, waving Israeli flags, giving the scene a powerful sense of pride in their country — and the game of hockey.

HC Tel Aviv’s Johnny Lazarus controlled the puck, with Jerusalem’s Zach Sprung on his heels.

Erik Lee/Herald photos

The Jerusalem Capitals and goaltender Yonatan Reisinger pulled out a win over HC Tel Aviv on May 17 at UBS Arena.

HC Tel Aviv’s Zach Freeman, right, collided with Jerusalem’s Jeremy Sprung.

Elmont community center project advances

Islanders to help identity a location that they thought would have a real impact on the community.

The planned facility would be built near Elmont Memorial High School, which, Solages said, is particularly important because south Elmont currently lacks a centralized public community space outside of school property.

Solages explained that the community desperately needs a central place for residents to gather, noting that north Elmont residents use Elmont Memorial Library as a shared public space outside of schools, but south Elmont lacks a similar community hub.

The assemblywoman told the Herald that the YMCA could eventually offer a wide range of services depending on community input, including childcare, youth programming, senior services, business opportunities and recreational activities.

“There are different dynamics and different YMCAs,” she said. “There’s one YMCA that has childcare center, there’s other YMCA that has business incubators, there’s another YMCA that has senior services and programs. And so, we want to hear from the community.”

She emphasized that organizers want residents to help shape the project before plans are finalized.

The facility is expected to provide space for local organizations and community groups that currently do not have permanent homes.

“This would give them somewhere to go,” Solages said. “This is like a place where people can convene, and it’s going to be a great space for Elmont to just deepen its roots.”

She added that the center could help strengthen Elmont’s identity as a multicultural and multireligious community.

Community members already have begun to express support for the project.

Susan Saint-Joy, an Elmont resident and a library trustee candidate, said the facility represents an important investment in the future of the community.

“As a young mother raising children in this community, I see this as an incredible investment in our future,” she said. “Our children and teenagers, especially our high school students, will now have access to additional programs, activities, and safe spaces designed to encourage growth, wellness, leadership, and community engagement.”

Saint-Joy added that YMCA’s experience operating community programs makes the organization a strong fit for Elmont.

Saint-Joy said she is encouraged by YMCA’s strong background in running community centers and youth

programs, noting that such experience is key to building a successful community hub. She explained that effective operation requires solid leadership, organization, and the ability to serve families across all age groups.

Bryanna Copeland, another Elmont resident, said she hopes accessibility and inclusion remain central to the project as plans move forward.

“As someone who uses a wheelchair and is raising a young child in this community, I’m hopeful this space will be built with accessibility and inclusion in mind from the beginning,” Copeland said.

Copeland said she hopes the facility will prioritize both physical access such as ramps, elevators, bathrooms, and family-friendly spaces, as well as greater inclusion for individuals with mental and developmental disabilities. She added that accessibility often isn’t fully considered, which can unintentionally leave some community members feeling excluded.

Copeland said inclusive spaces are especially important for families and children.

“A YMCA has the potential to become a true community hub, and I think it’s important that families of all abilities feel welcomed and represented there,” she said.

Solages said the project still faces several logistical steps, including demolition of the current structure on the property and development of a formal construction timeline. Still, she described the acquisition of the site as a major milestone.

She also credited Hochul for helping move the project forward.

“The governor really believes in Elmont, and she wants the best for Elmont,” Solages said. “The kids of Elmont and the seniors of Elmont, the families of Elmont, really deserve a center that they can be proud of.”

Herald file photo

The Elmont Memorial Library is a key community gathering space for residents in northern Elmont.

ConTinuEd

An honor for American Jewish Heritage

May is known for blooming flowers and warming weather. Yet, there are other important events that are within the month – Jewish American Heritage Month.

In observance, Nassau County Legislator, Olena Nicks who represents part of Uniondale, Hempstead, West Hempstead and Franklin Square celebrating community members at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building on May 20.

Nicks partnered with AJC Long Island to honor Avi Posnick, Northeast Region Director for StandWithUs, Owner of West Hempstead’s Riesterer Bakery, Amy Wong proprietor of West Hempstead’s Wing Wang Kosher Chinese restaurant, Shai Rosenbaum and Aaron Sacks of Island Assisted Living and Larry Rosenberg of Congregation Shaaray Shalom’s Holocaust Remembrance committee.

“Every May, we celebrate the tremendous contributions of Jewish Americans and their allies and how they enrich our lives through their educational, cultural and business endeavors,” Nicks said. “As the representative of some of Nassau County’s most vibrant and fastest-growing Jewish communities.

I recognize how their efforts help to create a more accepting society in which our diversity enriches us all,” she added. “And it was a true privilege to bring our community together in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month.”

–Stacy Driks

Legislature Olena Nicks presents a legislative citation to Avi Posnick the regional director of StandWithUs, an international and non-partisan Israel education organization.

Karl Riesterer, was honored with a legislative citation by legilsator Olena Nicks of Uniondale. Riesterer is the owner of Riesterer Bakery, a family business whose members were bakers since 1934.

Amy Wong, proprietor of West Hempstead’s Wang Kosher Chinese Restaurant, serves the community with both Chinese and Japanese cuisine, making it the only restaurant in the area offering kosher

Photos courtesy Office Legislator Olena Nicks

Legislature Olena Nicks presents a legislative citation to Aaron Sacks, left, and Shia Rosenbaum of Island Assisted Living in Hempstead. The agency is a participant in the New York State Assisted Living Program.

Larry Rosenberg, of Congregation Shaaray Shalom, an inclusive and progressive Conservative synagogue in West Hempstead is one of the six individuals to be honored with a legislative citation.

Elmont and Franklin Square budgets win approval

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Residents in Franklin Square and Elmont gave approval Tuesday to their school districts’ proposed budgets for the upcoming academic year while also casting ballots in board of education races. The proposed district budget for the Franklin Square Union Free School District focused on maintaining student programs, supporting curriculum and instruction, and ensuring long-term financial stability. The proposed $54 million budget passed Tuesday night, with 702 voting yes and 226 voting no.

Because

of your continued partnership, we are able to maintain the staff and programs that make our schools special.

JAREd BLooM, Franklin Square’s Superintendent

Patrick Amato, running unopposed, was elected to a Franklin Square School District board seat with 763 votes.

Voters in the Elmont Union Free School District on Tuesday night approved a proposed $118.7 million budget for the 2026-27 school year, with 878 voting

For the 2026-27 school district budgets, Franklin Square, Elmont and the Sewanhaka Central High School District all had their budgets approved.

yes and 266 voting no. The budget maintains educational programs and supports district operations.

Incumbent Angel Ramos was elected with 694 votes, while Tiffany Capers, an incumbent running unopposed, was reelected with 906 votes.

Voters in the Sewanhaka Central High School District approved a proposed $278 million budget, with 2,462 voting yes and 1,019 voting no.

Anna McCombs, a current Franklin Square school board member, wrote in a statement regarding the district’s annual

budget vote and on the election of school board members, “The individuals participating in these elections play a vital role in shaping the decisions that impact our educational system,” she wrote. “The right to vote, a cornerstone of our democratic system, should never be taken for granted.”

“Your support is a powerful show of trust in the work we do every day on behalf of the children of Franklin Square,” Franklin Square Superintendent Jared Bloom said in a statement. “Because of your continued partnership,

we are able to maintain the staff and programs that make our schools special.”

He said the approved budget will help sustain staffing levels, keep class sizes as low as possible and preserve academic, arts and enrichment opportunities for students.

Bloom also congratulated Patrick Amato on his election to the Board of Education, noting the district looks forward to his service. “We are excited to welcome Mr. Amato to the Board and look forward to his leadership, perspective, and dedication to the children and families of our community,” he said.

In the Sewanhaka Central High School District, Superintendent Regina Agrusa also thanked voters for supporting the 2026–2027 school budget and capital propositions.

“We are grateful for the trust our residents continue to place in our schools and in the work we do on behalf of our students,” Agrusa said.

Marlon C. Small, Elmont’s superintendent, wrote in a statement expressing gratitude for the support of the budget, “Please know that your support is deeply appreciated as it reflects a strong belief in the work our teachers, staff and administrators do each day in support of our students, families, and the wider school community,” he wrote. “We are incredibly grateful for your partnership and look forward to continuing to strengthen our collaboration in the upcoming school year.

Christina Daly/Herald

FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle

Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers

Take advantage of on-site health screenings

Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences

Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A

Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways

Snack station for all

*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees

All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.

AGENDA:

x273

STEPPING OUT

Nature, brick by brick

Wild wonders in LEGO form at Old Westbury Gardens

By Christie Leigh Babirad

Art, nature and imagination come together this summer at Old Westbury Gardens with the arrival of Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with LEGO Bricks, an outdoor exhibition that transforms familiar scenes from the natural world into larger-than-life works of art.

Now on display through Sept. 7, the exhibit features 17 larger-than-life intricate sculptures crafted entirely from LEGO bricks, many inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and beauty found throughout the historic gardens. Blending creativity with environmental themes, the installation invites visitors of all ages to experience the grounds in a fresh and unexpected way.

For Maura Brush, president and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens, bringing the exhibition here has been especially rewarding after years of planning and anticipation.

“We’re really excited to be hosting this exhibit,” Brush says, explaining that whenever she and her team choose a temporary exhibit, they strive for the display to blend with the grounds — and this does exactly that.

“When you see the exhibit and you see the sculptures it really fits so beautifully within the landscape,” she continues. “Old Westbury Gardens is home to foxes, butterflies and hummingbirds, and to see these exaggerated, large-scale sculptures in the landscape, it feels like it fits pretty beautifully.”

All of the displays are tucked into natural places throughout the garden areas where visitors might see these creatures and ﬂora naturally. Each includes is a sign that indicates how many bricks were used, how many hours it took the artist to make each one and facts about the creature or ﬂora.

Angela and Martin Pavlovic attended the preview opening with their 5-year-old son Niko who was excited to see the hummingbird and gave rave reviews for the wheel barrel made completely out of LEGOs.

“I like the wheel barrel,” Niko enthused. “It’s a 10 out of 10.”

Anne Caminiti, who attended with her daughters Nina and Mia, noted their eagerness to see the exhibit as her eldest daughter loves LEGOs.

South Shore Symphony

“I’m excited to see this display in one of our favorite places and see how many LEGOs it took to make each one,” Caminiti says, adding that she appreciates how many great family programs are offered at Old Westbury Gardens.

Ashley Friel, spokesperson for Imagine, which manages the exhibit, explains that Sean Kenney, who has been involved with Imagine for over 10 years now, is an artist who likes to invoke a sense of whimsy and fun for the whole family.

• Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects open daily, except for Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., through Sept. 7

• 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

“Nature Connects is a super inspiring show and really about how the beauty of nature is interconnected in the same way that LEGO bricks are,” Friel says.

She added that she is eager to hear visitors’ reactions to the sculptures and hopes the exhibit encourages guests to see the natural world through a new and more imaginative lens.

The fun does not stop with the sculptures. Throughout the Nature Connects’ duration, Old Westbury Gardens will host a series of LEGOthemed events and programs designed to inspire creativity and bring together visitors of all ages.

Laura Erwin, education manager, explained that the exhibit will be complemented by a variety of special events, including Family Nights and the Seasonal Sprouts program, held on select Wednesdays from July 1 through Sept. 2. Created for children ages 4 through 10, Seasonal Sprouts combines exploration and creativity through guided outdoor tours of the exhibit followed by hands-on activity in a LEGO free-play space.

“There are a lot of fun events coming up and the Family Nights are going to be big,” Erwin says.

Another preview visitor, Claudine Krause, stopped by with her son Tatum, who she said loves LEGOs and goes to all the master LEGO events and has been following Sean Kenney’s work.

“There’s a lot you can learn through LEGOs and they have a lot of great events for children here,” Krause says.

Adults can also join in the creativity when Bricks and Brews returns on Aug. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The adults-only evening pairs art and socializing, beginning with a guided tour of the exhibition and continuing at the Barn at Orchard Hill, where guests will build with ofﬁcial LEGO Botanical Daisies kits while enjoying refreshments in a relaxed setting.

The beloved orchestra, under direction of Adam Glaser, returns to St. Agnes Cathedral for its annual spring concert, joined by St. Agnes combined choirs, directed by Michael Bower. The inspiring program showcases beloved masterworks, including Mozart’s Regina Coeli, and Bach’s Mass in B Minor: Dona Nobis and Beethoven’s Christ on the Mount of Olives: Hallelujah.The evening culminates with Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 9, the groundbreaking 1824 masterpiece that transformed symphonic music by introducing a chorus in its ﬁnal movement and giving voice to Friedrich Schiller’s enduring “Ode to Joy,” a celebration of unity and shared humanity. More than 65 musicians and approximately 75 vocalists join acclaimed soloists soprano Risa Renae Harman, mezzosoprano Elizabeth Sarian, tenor Eric Finbarr Carey, and baritone Scott Lefurgy. Admission is free, with donations requested.

Friday, May 29, 7:30 pm. 29

Quealy Place, Rockville Centre. Visit sssymphony.org for more.

The blues-rock guitarist-singersongwriter has built a reputation as one of the most exciting live performers of his generation. Blending electric blues, rock, soul, R&B, and hints of hip-hop, Clark’s sound is both rooted in tradition and boldly modern. His guitar tone often recalls legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, but his songwriting, socially aware lyrics, and willingness to experiment make him stand out as a contemporary artist. On stage, he is known for extended solos, dynamic arrangements, and emotionally charged vocals that move from soft falsetto to gritty growls, making every concert feel unforgettable. Anyone who has listened to a Gary Clark Jr. album or watched the four-time Grammy Award winner perform live knows that he’s a gifted multiinstrumentalist, songwriter and performer.

Wednesday, June 3, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Gary Clark Jr.

Right photo courtesy Imagine/ other photos Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Westbury Gardens landscape,

gallery.

bricks.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

MAY

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ Plaza Theatrical stages the classic musical based on the stories of Yiddish writer Sholem Aleichem, particularly “Tevye the Dairyman”. Set in the fictional Russian village of Anatevka around 1905, relive the iconic and beloved songs such as “Sunrise, Sunset,” “If I Were A Rich Man” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.” ‘Fiddler’ is the perfect mix of audience-pleasing humor and heart. $49, $45 seniors.

• Where: Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 2 p.m.; also May 29, 7:30 p.m., May 30-31

• Contact: PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870

‘Something Rotten! The Musical’

See the comedy musical, set in the 1590s, which follows two playwright brothers competing with William Shakespeare as they attempt to create the world’s first musical. From tap dancing eggs to beautiful love stores, this musical really has it all. Songs include “A Musical!,” “It’s Hard to Be the Bard,” and “Welcome to the Renaissance.” The cast is comprised of New York City professionals, including David Hibbard, who was in the original Broadway production, with CAP21 alumni and current students. Performances are scheduled throughout the fourday run.

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

• Time: Varied times, through May 31

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

MAY

29 Friday Walking Club

Start your Friday mornings with a light, social walking group as Elmont Memorial Library’s Walking Club returns for the season. Participants meet indoors in the lobby and walk together in a relaxed, welcoming environment, with outdoor walking planned when weather permits. This program is designed to encourage gentle physical activity, improve wellness, and provide a chance to connect with others in the community. All adults and seniors are welcome to join, but registration is required due to limited space.

• Where: Lobby, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 10-10:45 a.m.

David Lee Roth

JUN

Sprout and Bloom Families can dig in and get their hands dirty at Long Island Children’s Museum. The museum welcomes all to celebrating all the beautiful May flowers by planting your own at the drop-in program. Take it home and watch it grow!. For ages 3+.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

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

JUN

6

A Slice of Pride: Family Service Event

Kick off Pride Month with a celebration of kindness, community, and inclusion at this familyfriendly event at Franklin Square Library. Enjoy a pizza party, music, crafts, and participate in a meaningful food drive supporting Pride for Youth’s Food Pantry. Open to all families, whether part of the LGBTQ+ community or allies. Registration is required as space is limited.

• Where: 19 Lincoln Road

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

Get ready to jump! Diamond Dave is back! The iconic, high-flying frontman of Van Halen is bringing his legendary swagger and a massive arsenal of rock anthems to the Paramount stage. Fans can expect a high-octane night packed with timeless hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Runnin’ with the Devil.” This tour marks a massive return for the rock legend, who officially ended a five-year hiatus from the stage last May with a triumphant, headlinemaking debut at the M3 Rock Festival. Far from a stripped-down nostalgic act, Roth is backing up his signature showmanship with a powerhouse new eight-piece band to perfectly replicates those massive, classic Van Halen harmonies. Between the fresh musical muscle and Roth’s undiminished, charismatic stage presence, this promises to be an unforgettable night of nostalgia and high-energy rock ‘n’ roll. If you’re looking for a night of pure, unadulterated arena-rock energy right in our own backyard, this is the ticket of the season.

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

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 since you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can finally do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also May 30, June 3-4

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

MAY

30 Franklin

Square Spring Fair 2026

Don’t miss out on the community celebration. With local vendors, food trucks, crafts, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities including games and children’s attractions. Organized by the Franklin Square Chamber of Commerce, the fair highlights local businesses and seasonal community engagement.

• Where: Rath Park, Naple Ave. and Jefferson St, Franklin Square

• Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Contact: franklinsquare chamber.com or (516) 2479030

Paul Sapienza Elmont/ Belmont Parade

All are invited to the annual Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont Parade, a festive event celebrating local pride and the region’s rich connection to Belmont Park and the Belmont Stakes tradition. Named in honor of the late Paul Sapienza, a lifelong Elmont resident and former president of the Elmont Chamber of Commerce, the parade brings together elected officials, school marching bands,

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

fire and police units, local youth groups and community organizations for a spirited march down Hempstead Turnpike. Expect family - friendly fun along the route, lively music, colorful floats and opportunities to connect with neighbors and civic groups.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke.

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: elmontchamber.net

Family Night: Backyard Bugs

Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families to discover the fascinating world of bugs during this special after-hours experience. Explore Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects exhibit, a hands-on bug information station, the LEGO free-play area, along with a live bug show. Participants will meet incredible insects up close and learn what makes them so amazing, plus the bug station for further exploration and discovery. Registration required. $34, $24 children (20% member discount).

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 5-8 p.m.

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

• Time: Noon-1:30 p.m.

• Contact: fslibrary.org

Cruisin’ the AMP

The vibrant outdoor community car show and summer kickoff celebration brings together auto enthusiasts, families, and neighbors. Classic cars, custom vehicles, hot rods, and modern show cars line up on display, offering attendees the chance to admire a wide range of automotive styles and speak with their owners about restoration, history, and performance details. In addition to the vehicle showcase, food vendors offer snacks and dinner options, a beer and wine garden for adults, with music and entertainment near the main stage.

• Where: Rath Park, 849 Fenworth Blvd.

• Time: 3:30-10 p.m.

• Contact: (516)-670-1050

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

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE ASSET BACKED SECURITIES CORPORATION HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES AMQ 2006-HE7 ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES AMQ 2006-HE7, Plaintiff, vs. JANET BARNES, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 17, 2018 and an Ex Parte Order Amending Judgement of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 3, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 746 Meacham Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 0032, Block 00699-00 and Lot 00031. Approximate amount of judgment is $620,821.14 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #001699/2015.

Lawrence Weinreich, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 160036

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

INDEX NO. 624149/2025 COUNTY OF NASSAU

JEAN LOUIS A/K/A

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 $360,000.00 and interest, recorded on August 01, 2005, in Liber M 29162 at Page 800, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 146 HENDRICKSON AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003. 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.

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 13th, 2026

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff

Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 159966

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 622013/2025 COUNTY OF NASSAU

PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff, vs. LAWRENCE S. TALT

WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR SECURITIZED ASSET BACKED RECEIVABLES LLC TRUST 2006-OP1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-OP1, Plaintiff, vs. MARIE

JEAN M. LOUIS; CASTEL SIMON D/B/A SAS AUTO & CONSTRUCTION, if living, and if she/he be dead, 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; CITIBANK, N.A.; CAPITAL ONE, N.A.”JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #1 ; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, “JOHN DOE #4” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last nine names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 146 HENDRICKSON AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003

CARMEL LOUIS;

Section: 32, Block: 355, Lot: 57-59

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

A/K/A LARRY S. TALT, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; PATRICK J. HENNESSY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; DANIEL J. CAPARELLI A/K/A DANIEL J. HENNESSY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; KAREN TALT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; LARA TALT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; KEVIN TALT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; LAUREN TALT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. TALT, 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, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE-DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY; VILLAGE OF MINEOLA; VILLAGE OF ROSLYN; LONG ISLAND JEWISH MEDICAL CENTER; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, Defendants. Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 150 CROCUS AVENUE, FLORAL PARK, NY 11001

Section: 32, Block: 173, Lot: 170

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 $425,000.00 and interest, recorded on July 02, 2009, in Book M 33902 at Page 164, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 150 CROCUS AVENUE, FLORAL PARK, NY 11001. 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 13th, 2026

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590

516-280-7675 159963

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Citibank N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Kathleen Brancaleone, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 27, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 497 Tulip Avenue, Floral Park, NY 11001. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 32, BLOCK: 273, LOT: 26. Approximate amount of judgment is $542,666.53 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609197/2019. This sale may be subject to the US Dept of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Real Estate Reporting Rule. In such event, all purchasers are required to provide the information needed for proper reporting in accordance with the terms of sale. Scott H. Siller, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-091795-F00 89784 160138

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

PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006M1, Plaintiff, Against LYSTRA M.

RAMRATTAN AS HEIR AND ADMINISTRATRIX TO THE ESTATE OF SURDASH RAMRATTAN; RANDALL S. RAMRATTAN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SURDASH RAMRATTAN; LYSTRA M. RAMRATTAN AS GUARDIAN OF CHELSEA K. R. RAMRATTAN WHO IS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SURDASH RAMRATTAN; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 01/10/2019, 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 6/25/2026 at 2:30PM, premises known as 1069 Concord Street, Franklin Square, New York 11010, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Franklin Square in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York. Section 33 Block 380 Lot 260 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $882,483.61 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 003792/2015 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. Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 4/13/2026 File Number: 17-300381 CA 160312

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed bids subject to all instructions, terms and conditions herein and pursuant to the specifications, will be received by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Elmont Fire District at the Office of said District located at

May 28, 2026

Public Notices

the Fire District Office, 100 School Road, Elmont, New York 11003, until 7:00 PM on June 24, 2026, where they will be opened publicly and read aloud after 7:00 PM prevailing time, on the said date for the service as specified and the contract awarded as soon thereafter as practical for: RENOVATION/ UPGRADE OF ELEVATOR AT FIRE DISTRICT ENGINE 4 BUILDING AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT AND PUBLIC WORK RELATED THERETO Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be obtained at the office of the Fire District located at 100 School Road, Elmont, New York 11003 from May 26, 2026 until June 23, 2026 between the hours of 10:00AM and 4:00PM, Monday through Thursday. Each bidder wishing to obtain a copy of the bid documents, plans and specification for the project shall submit a check in the amount one hundred ($100.00) dollars payable to the “Elmont Fire District”, as a deposit to guarantee the safe return of such bid documents, plans and specifications. If thereafter the bidder submits a proposal together with the required bid security and thereafter returns such copy of the bidding documents, plans and specifications in good condition within thirty (30) days following the award of the contract, the full amount of such deposit for one copy shall be refunded to the bidder. No refund will be provided for deposits for additional copies of the documents.

All bids must be accompanied by bid security in the form of either a) a certified check payable to the “Elmont Fire District.” in the amount of five (5%) percent of the bid price, or b) a bond with sufficient sureties to be approved by the Elmont Fire District in the amount of five (5%) percent of the bid price. If the bid is accepted, the bidder will enter into a contract in accordance with the bid and will furnish a suitable security bond in the sum of the amount of the contract, conditioned for the

faithful and prompt completion of the work specified in the contract. If the bidder neglects or refuses to execute the contract and furnish the bonds, the deposit of five (5%) percent of the bid price shall be forfeited and retained by the Elmont Fire District as liquidated damages or, in the case of a bid bond, the Elmont Fire District shall enforce payment of the bond for its benefit.

Performance, Labor and Material Payment bonds and a Maintenance bond in the forms specified for the full amount of the contract are required and shall be included in the bid price.

Exclude from all bids New York State Sales Tax on materials or supplies purchased for this project.

Pursuant to §220 of the Labor Law, the contract will contain a provision that every mechanic, laborer and workman employed in or about the work contemplated by the contract shall be paid not less than the prevailing rate of wages and provided with not less than the prevailing supplement which are set forth in the Bidding Documents. All contractors and subcontractors submitting bids or performing construction work on fire district public work projects are required to have registered with the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) under Labor Law Section 220-i. The NYSDOL Registration No. must be stated in the bid proposal. All contractors and subcontractors working on fire district public works projects must provide certified payroll records to the NYSDOL through the NYSDOL Certified Payroll portal.

The Elmont Fire District reserves the right to waive any informalities in, to accept or reject any or all bids, to award the contract to other than the lowest bidder or to advertise anew if in the judgment of the Elmont Fire District it is in their best interests to do so.

No bidder shall withdraw his bid within 45 days after the formal opening thereof.

Dated: Elmont, New York May 20, 2026

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD ATTEST: FRANCES ANDINO SECRETARY 160421

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 06/10/2026 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.

1185/26. FRANKLIN SQUARE - SOSP Inc./St. Catherine of Sienna Church, Amusement Rides (Special Event) duration June 25, 2026 - June 28, 2026 with tents., S/E cor. Pacific St. & Holzheimer St. & S/W cor. Pacific St. & Lloyd St., a/k/a Town of Hempstead Parking Lots FS3 & FS4. 297/26. ELMONTMunicipal Credit Union, Renewal of grant to maintain one doublefaced, illuminated, detached pylon sign, setback 8’ from Hempstead Tpke., N/s Hempstead Tpke., 533’ E/o Makoske Ave., a/k/a 1710 Hempstead Tpke.

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M.

316/26. ELMONT - 88 Belmont Group LLC, Variances, subdivision of lot, lot area, front width from & on street line to front setback line, construct dwelling with garage (Parcel A) (demolish existing dwelling)., S/s Belmont Ave., 140’ E/o Second St., f/k/a 196 Belmont Ave. 317/26. ELMONT - 88

Belmont Group LLC, Variances, subdivision of lot, lot area, front width from & on street line to front setback line, lot area occupied, construct dwelling with garage (Parcel B)., S/s Belmont Ave., 190’ E/o Second St.

318/26. ELMONT - 88 Belmont Group LLC, Variances, subdivision

of lot, lot area, front width from & on street line to front setback line, construct dwelling with garage (Parcel C)., S/s Belmont Ave., 230’ E/o Second St. 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 Franklin Square & Elmont within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.

160419

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. DIAN M. MARTINEZ AS EXECUTOR TO THE ESTATE OF OLIVE JOSEPHS A/K/A OLIVE WISHART A/K/A OLIVE WRIGHT-JOSEPHS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 26, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 29, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 654 Dorothea Lane, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 708 and Lot 6.

New voting machines approved for Nassau

Members of the Nassau County Legislature voted unanimously on April 27 to approve upgrades to the county’s voting machine technology ahead of the November 2026 general election, aiming to expand accessibility and improve the voting process.

Before the vote, minority caucus members were given a demonstration of the new ClearBallot machines, which can produce ballots in up to 15 languages in accordance with New York State requirements. Currently, Nassau County is mandated to offer ballots in English, Spanish, Chinese and Malayalam.

Election officials said the new machines will enhance accessibility for Deaf, hard of hearing and blind voters through features such as audio assistance, touch screens and Braille keypads. The technology is also expected to speed up the reporting of election night results.

“It is essential for elections to be as secure and smooth as possible, and a key element of that mission is making it as simple as possible for registered voters in Nassau County to cast their ballots,” Minority Leader DeRiggi-Whitton said. “These upgraded machines will go a long way toward fulfilling this bedrock mission of strengthening representative democracy in America. I thank the men and women of the Nassau County Board of Elections for arranging Monday’s demonstration and working so diligently throughout the year.”

Approximate amount of judgment is $432,960.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612666/2024.

Tara Mayerhofer, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 255446-2 160427

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED

SECURITIES

ACQUISITION TRUST 2018-HB1, -againstVADELL WALKER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF TONI WILLIAMS, 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 January 16, 2025, wherein WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST 2018-HB1 is the Plaintiff and VADELL WALKER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE

ESTATE OF TONI WILLIAMS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 29, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 34 LOUIS AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 32-363-74, 75, 76 & 77.

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

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610675/2021. Christine M. Grillo, 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. 160425

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

Courtesy Peter M. Budraitis

A ClearBallot voting machine demonstrated to Nassau County legislators on April 27, showcasing expanded language options and accessibility features ahead of the November 2026 general election.

––Stacy Driks

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

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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

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Do I need to file a plan just to build a stone wall? Part 2.

Q.. I planned and started building a stack stone wall in my front yard, but I was stopped by a building inspector. He told me the wall was structural, and needed a professional plan to be approved before I could do the rest of the work. It’s just a landscape wall instead of a fence or hedges at my front sidewalk, so why should it matter? A lot of my neighbors have them, and he told me to file a complaint, and he would check the others out, but I don’t want to tell on my neighbors. What do you suggest?

A. Continuing my answer from the last column, which addressed the technical issues, the approval side is often more complicated, especially when we attach the stigma of living among neighbors in this condition we refer to as “civilization.”

You wondered why neighbors have gotten away with building their walls and fences without permits, and yet you are being called out for your venture into building without approvals they didn’t seem to need. You may also wonder why the inspector suggested you file a complaint so that there is cause to look into violations created by your neighbors the same kind of violation you feel singled out for. We, collectively, wonder why this happens. It is a regular occurrence to be taken to a potential customer’s door and pointed out violations others have, completely visible to all, which are either prohibited or require building permits and zoning variances. Things like extra-tall fences, pools, sheds, decks and porches extended into front yards even garages and “temporary” carports. I know that once I have to explain the rules and regulations, it isn’t convincing, and I may be dismissed, mainly because the neighbors are “getting away with it, so why should I have to spend all this money and time when they didn’t have to?”

You, like most, believe that if an inspector sees a violation, they will act. In many incorporated villages, that is the case. In the larger jurisdictions, however, that isn’t always the case. You are requested to file a complaint. People I have spoken to won’t do that, because that pits neighbor against neighbor, even if the authorities tell you that your complaint is confidential. The violator immediately becomes suspicious, and when I get called to meet and try to clear a violation, the first part of the conversation is spent by the owner pointing at the suspected neighbor’s property, and vindictive language follows.

I never really had a name for it until recently, when the phrase “The system is rigged” prevailed. Now I understand, as you should, too, that the way violations are handled actually creates stress among neighbors and goes against public safety, as more and more of us want to do uncertified, unsafe construction without approvals. Financially, those municipalities that double their fees for already-built work benefit from the violations they encourage. If public safety is most important, it’s overshadowed by administration. Good luck!

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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opinions

Protecting our suburbs from overdevelopment

Long Island’s suburbs weren’t created by accident. They were built to offer families a place to grow, to feel safe, and to put down roots in communities that reflect shared values and a commitment to quality of life. In the Town of Hempstead, we take that responsibility seriously.

Right now, however, that way of life is being challenged from two directions: Albany’s push to override local zoning authority, and unchecked overdevelopment that threatens the character of our neighborhoods. I want to be clear that my administration is not opposed to growth. We understand the need for more housing, including more affordable housing, to ensure that the next generation can stay on Long Island. But growth must be thoughtful, balanced and locally driven. It can never be dictated by Albany bureaucrats who neither live in nor understand our communities.

Governor Kathy Hochul’s latest plan to circumvent local zoning regulations is a direct threat to suburban Long

Island. It is a one-size-fits-all mandate that ignores the unique needs, infrastructure and character of towns like Hempstead. Local zoning exists for a reason. It allows communities to plan responsibly to ensure that roads, schools, public safety services and utilities can support new development. Stripping that authority away undermines decades of careful planning and silences the voices of the very residents these policies impact.

Amodest, affordable houses.

lbany’s plan

to curcumvent local zoning is a direct threat to suburban L.I.

Decisions about our neighborhoods should be made by the people who live here and the officials they elect, not by distant policymakers focused on solving problems specific to New York City. Long Island is not Manhattan, and it should not be treated as such.

At the same time, we have taken decisive action at the local level to protect the integrity of our neighborhoods. In Levittown, one of the most iconic suburban communities in America, we recently passed a zoning reform to address the rise of so-called McMansions. Often built by developers looking to maximize profit, these oversized homes, which dwarf neighboring properties and fundamentally alter the character of entire neighborhoods, have been replacing

Levittown was built as a symbol of opportunity. After World War II, it provided affordable homes for returning veterans and their families. It was a place where the American Dream was within reach and where legacy mattered. We listened when residents came forward, voicing concerns about privacy, overcrowding, infrastructure strain and the loss of neighborhood character.

After extensive public hearings and community input, the Town Board unanimously voted to reduce the allowable building area on residential lots to align it with the majority of residential zoning restrictions in the Town of Hempstead. This strikes a balance between allowing homeowners to improve and modernize their properties and preventing overdevelopment that erodes the very charm that makes these neighborhoods special. When modest homes are replaced with million-dollar structures, we aren’t expanding opportunity. Rather, we are pricing families out and changing the fabric of our neighborhoods in ways that cannot be undone.

These two issues — Albany’s overreach and local overdevelopment — are connected by the need to protect our suburbs from decisions that prioritize

volume over value and expediency over community.

We also cannot ignore the broader context. As Albany struggles to pass a budget, we see proposals that include record spending increases, bailouts that disproportionately benefit New York City, and little meaningful relief for Long Island taxpayers. At a time when families are already feeling the pressure of rising costs, this approach is simply unsustainable.

I am proud to stand with many of Long Island’s leaders to say to Albany that enough is enough. We need a state government that respects local control, exercises fiscal responsibility and recognizes that Long Island deserves its fair share and should not be left as an afterthought in a city-centric agenda.

Protecting the suburbs doesn’t mean resisting all change. It means guiding change in a way that preserves what works while addressing what doesn’t. It means building housing that is attainable, not excessive. It means empowering local communities, not overriding them.

The Town of Hempstead will continue to stand firm on these crucial matters. We will defend our neighborhoods, uphold local decision-making and ensure that our suburbs remain places where families can thrive today and for generations to come.

John Ferretti is the Town of Hempstead supervisor.

Clarify E-bike laws to preserve safety, protect owners

in recent months, Nassau County family budgets have been impacted by a potent double whammy of spiraling inflation and soaring gas prices because of the ongoing war with Iran. Such pressures have naturally encouraged our constituents to look toward lower-cost alternatives for transportation, such as electronic bikes and scooters.

E-bikes and scooters can help residents save money on gas, parking, tolls and other expenses. They reduce car traffic and provide mobility for seniors, students, workers and others who may not own a car. Simply put, they are a part of Nassau County’s diversified transportation future. But county laws governing these vehicles haven’t been updated in 20 years, and our law enforcement professionals are utilizing a statute that was written to govern the use of all-terrain vehicles, not contemporary e-bikes and scooters. They are completely different

devices with vastly different purposes, and New York state law has been updated to reflect this reality.

The discrepancy between county and state law has created confusion that is directly impacting Nassau families. A constituent from West Hempstead recently had his e-bike confiscated while riding around the corner from his own home. He is the epitome of a responsible owner and rider, and when he bought his e-bike, he checked state law to ensure that it was legal for him to use it in his daily commute.

legislation that would update the county’s e-bike laws to protect our constituents while preserving public safety.

A nd let’s require sellers to inform their customers about those laws.

Under Nassau’s outdated and incongruent law, not only was his bike confiscated, but he was also forced to pay the same fee as a car tow to recover it from impound. The ordeal cost him hundreds of dollars, and it vividly illustrates how the county’s failure to keep up harms our constituents, confuses the public and makes it unnecessarily difficult for our law enforcement professionals to carry out their duties.

It is essential for Nassau County rules to be clear and consistent with state law. That’s why, on April 27, I filed

It’s important to be very clear about what this proposal would do and, more important, what it would not do. It would not remove common-sense safety rules. Riding e-bikes or scooters on sidewalks would still be prohibited, as would riding on highways. Existing restrictions on the use of ATVs, pocket bikes and other, similar vehicles on our roadways would remain in effect. Reckless riding, doing stunts and wheelies on active roadways? Still prohibited. Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs? Your vehicle would be seized.

My proposal would preserve the rules that protect pedestrians, drivers and families, and would continue to prohibit the use of e-bikes and scooters by anyone under age 16. The only thing the legislation would change is the outdated county restrictions that punish residents for using affordable transportation options that are already recognized and legal under state law.

Additionally, my proposal would require sellers of e-bikes and scooters to inform their customers about the laws governing their use, and require shops to preserve proof that buyers received this vital information.

At a time when we’re all paying more at the pump, for insurance, for car repairs and for almost every daily necessity, my Democratic colleagues and I are stepping up with a common-sense solution that would provide clarity and save our constituents money.

To date, we have received little in the way of a response from the county administration or the legislative majority, which is especially frustrating considering how they have refused to even consider a gas tax holiday as soaring prices continue to squeeze families across the county.

Modernizing our e-bike laws would be good for the environment, good for affordability and, most of all, good for public safety. I’m optimistic that common sense will prevail and that we will reach a consensus. I implore my Republican colleagues to join me in this effort, and I am ready to work with them to pass legislation that benefits us all.

Olena Nicks, of Uniondale, represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.

Established 1998

Incorporating the Franklin Square/Elmont Record in 2001

Hailey

aWater safety starts with vigilance

s summer approaches on Long Island, our communities eagerly embrace the joys of swimming, boating and waterfront leisure. From backyard pools to the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, aquatic activities are woven into our seasonal traditions.

With those pleasures, however, comes a paramount responsibility: ensuring water safety for all.

New York ranks fourth in the nation in drowning deaths. The state now requires all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, to possess a valid boating safety certificate. The requirement, established as part of Brianna’s Law — named in memory of 11-year-old Brianna Lieneck, who lost her life in a 2005 boating accident in the Great South Bay — is intended to make waterways safer.

Boaters can enroll in approved safety courses available in person and online. The BoatUS Foundation offers a free, state-approved online course, and the New York State Parks Adventure License program encourages boaters to add an anchor icon to their driver’s license to indicate completion of the course.

Water safety extends well beyond boats, to backyard and public swimming pools and Long Island’s many miles of beaches. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death

letters

Where is Hempstead’s affordable-housing plan?

To the Editor:

Re Joseph Scianablo’s op-ed, “We can’t solve a housing crisis with hypocrisy or politics,” in the May 14-20 issue: Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, clearly stated the issues involved in dealing with the housing crisis. He also delineated steps that need to be taken to solve the problem.

One must wonder, what has the town’s leadership, under Supervisor John Ferretti, been doing about this housing crisis? No cogent plan has been followed to deal with the shortage of housing that’s affordable for young families or seniors wanting to downsize. A predictable pattern has developed, which we have witnessed with the Woodmere Country Club and Inwood/North Hempstead projects: A project is proposed by developers, there is an outcry from community residents who have reasonable concerns, and then there is expensive litigation, paid for with taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.

Ferretti and the Town Board should have

among children.

Suffolk County reported 24 drownings in 2024, a 60 percent increase over the prior year, based on statistics from Stony Brook University. Experts noted what they called an “alarming shift,” with 66 percent of drownings happening in backyard pools rather than open water, driven largely by a post-pandemic surge in pool installations. Nationwide, drowning remains a leading cause of unintentional-injury deaths among children ages 1 to 4.

To reduce the risks:

■ Always supervise children closely when they are in or near water. Avoid distractions, even when lifeguards are present.

■ Install fences with self-latching gates around pools to prevent unsupervised access. State law requires fences to be at least 4 feet high and to fully enclose pools.

■ Teach children to swim, learn yourself if you never have, and understand basic water safety rules.

■ Ensure that supervising adults are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation so they can respond effectively in emergencies.

■ State law requires children under 12 to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejackets on boats smaller than 21 feet.

Lifejackets accessible to all passengers are essential on any vessel.

■ At public pools and beaches, pay attention to lifeguards, who are trained to identify hazards such as rip currents — fast-moving channels of water that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.

■ Ask lifeguards about dangerous conditions, and swim only in designated areas. If caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to shore until free of the current.

Another major danger is after-hours swimming. When lifeguards are off duty, swimmers who are inexperienced, overconfident or impaired are left unmonitored, and that is when many drownings occur.

Early-season swimmers should also remember that ocean water remains dangerously cold well into late spring. Cold water quickly drains energy and increases the risk of distress, even for strong swimmers.

Water safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re watching children at a pool, enjoying a day at the beach or heading out on a boat, a few simple precautions can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Long Island’s waters are meant to be enjoyed, but only if we treat them with the respect they demand.

had a forward-looking housing plan in place. As proposed by candidate Scianablo, stakeholders including developers, union workers and residents must be engaged in planning housing projects for the needs of each unique community.

Instead of blaming Albany, our town leadership must take responsibility now to deal with the housing crisis.

PAMELA KORN Hewlett

opinions

Let’s take our daughters outside

ask a girl in Elmont, Freeport or Hempstead what she did last weekend, and chances are her answer would sound a lot like that of girls across long island. She spent time scrolling on her phone. Maybe on social media. Maybe texting friends. Maybe watching a show. What she likely wasn’t doing was exploring the outdoors, or simply lying in the grass and watching the sky. June is National Great Outdoors Month, and as CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County, i want to say something plainly: Girls need to spend more time outside, unplugged and reconnecting with the world around them.

The good news is we already have the solution, one that has been working for more than a century. according to the Outdoor Foundation, participation in outdoor recreation among girls ages 13 to 17 has fallen to roughly 50 percent. research published in the Journal of american College Health confirms that screen time is a significant predictor of

Letters

higher anxiety, depression and stress in young people, while time spent outdoors predicts lower rates of stress and depression. Nature is good for girls, and the absence of it is doing harm.

tWhat makes this urgent is that girls are disproportionately affected. Studies show that girls spend less time outdoors than boys, and that the drop-off accelerates sharply in early adolescence — the years when confidence, identity and resilience are being forged. at a time when we’re already grappling with a youth mental health crisis, this is a trend we can’t afford to ignore.

them become leaders.

Nassau County Communities are home to thousands of girls who deserve every opportunity to experience the outdoors. Many of them face real barriers, including fewer green spaces, limited transportation and tighter family budgets. The idea of sending a daughter to sleep-away camp in the Hamptons can feel like a luxury that belongs to someone else’s life.

here they can discover what they’re made of without the Wi-Fi.

Outdoor experiences don’t just reduce anxiety. They actively build the skills girls need to lead. The Girl Scout research institute has found that girls who regularly spend time outdoors are better problem solvers, more likely to seek out challenges and stronger environmental stewards. They develop leadership skills, forge deeper friendships and report greater happiness overall.

For girls from lower-income communities, access to the outdoors is even more transformative. research shows that they are significantly more likely to credit outdoor experiences with helping

Voters deserve to hear more from the candidates on housing

To the Editor:

Mr. Scianablo is half right. Politics is the only means we have to reconcile civil issues. What is required is the sort of politics Mr. Scianablo describes, where leadership seeks to “rise above the noise” and “tell the truth” to promote “honest conversations” and form “partnerships” that will work toward “thoughtful, community-driven planning.” That would mean a constructive confrontation with some hard words.

Nassau County’s leaders must acknowledge the truth that the housing issue can’t be “solved” at the county level, but progress can be facilitated. Candidates for leadership must dismiss the noise to center the honest conversations on those few factors and limited partnerships within their purview and jurisdiction. This means devising a thoughtful plan for changes in zoning to encourage density at sites that provide transportation and public services — which will encourage builders and bankers to construct affordable units that make Nassau attractive to buyers, preferably families with children.

There are hard words here, but voters deserve to hear from each candidate some opening position from which they will begin their honest conversation, and what their vision is for a Nassau community plan to ameliorate its portion of the “crisis.”

BriaN KElly Rockville Centre

Every girl, regardless of Zip code, family income or whether she has ever seen a tent stake, deserves the chance to discover what she’s made of when the Wi-Fi is gone and there are stars overhead.

across acres of woods, trails and private beachfront, girls spend summers canoeing, swimming, building fires, sleeping under the stars, and doing something that is increasingly rare in young people’s lives: being fully, completely present.

The girls i see during the school year undergo a transformation at camp. They become — dare i say — wild and free. They are independent, curious and brave. The girl who was nervous about sleeping away from home discovers she can navigate a trail. The girl who

Framework by Tim Baker

thought she was “not outdoorsy” finds herself paddling a canoe across open water and realizing she loves it. These are moments that shape who a girl believes she can be, and that belief follows her home.

Every girl should have the chance to get outside in a meaningful, supported, joyful way. Not just girls whose families can easily absorb the cost of summer camp. Not just girls who already love hiking or have spent weekends on trails. Every girl, including the one in Elmont who has never left Nassau County, the one in Hempstead who thinks camping sounds miserable, the one in Valley Stream who just needs someone to hand her a canoe paddle and say, “you’ve got this.”

Heading into summer, i’m asking long island families, school leaders, community organizations and businesses to join us in making the outdoors accessible to every girl in Nassau County. Because the research is clear, the need is urgent and the girls are ready.

The girl who builds a fire, sleeps in a tent and wakes up to birdsong instead of notifications isn’t just having a fun summer adventure. She’s becoming a leader for long island, for our communities, for the future. Those leaders start here.

Rande Bynum is CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County.

At Molloy University’s graduation, that’s President James Lentini on guitar — Jones Beach

Your Safety is Our #1 Concern—

And the Experts Agree

At Mount Sinai South Nassau, patient safety isn’t just a priority— it’s a standard, one we work on every day. And the experts agree.

We’ve earned national recognition for patient safety, including an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group and the Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award.

That means better outcomes for our patients with lower risk of infections or hospital acquired conditions.

When it comes to your health, nothing matters more than knowing you’re in a place where patient safety matters most.

Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau