Courtesy Natasha Lyons
Imani Lyons, a senior at Elmont Memorial High School, was awarded a $500 scholarship after being named a winner in Erase Racism’s 2025 Raise Your Voice essay contest for her work on healthcare disparities and mental health stigma in communities of color.
By RENEE DELORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Imani Lyons, an Elmont Memorial High School senior, received a $500 John Wenzel Scholarship after being named a winner of Erase Racism’s 2025 Raise Your Voice essay competition for her essay about improving access to mental healthcare in communities of color.
All Nassau and Suffolk county high school students are eligible to compete for the competition’s five winning slots — one grand prizewinner, who receives a $1,500 scholarship, and four additional winners who each receive $500 scholarships, funded by donations from SCOPE Education Services in Smithtown. This year, the competition fea-
tured entries from 52 young student advocates.
The 2025 contest theme, “Brave Spaces: Shaping Change and Transformative Communication,” prompted students to write about the meaning of changing spaces and turning systemic issues into meaningful solutions. Inspired by Wenzel’s commitment to social justice and philanthropic efforts through his involvement with the Rauch Foundation, the essay contest challenges students to imagine a world in which marginalized communities can overcome adversity.
Imani, who is interested in entering the medical field and opening a neurosurgical practice focusing on Black women’s healthcare, entered the contest because she felt
By RENEE DELORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Parents in Elmont expressed mixed reactions to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s smartphone ban for the upcoming school year after Superintendent Regina Agrusa hosted a community meeting at Sewanhaka High School to hear comments from the public on how the district should enforce the ban during the school day.
Hochul’s legislation, passed last month as part of the state budget, will prohibit students statewide from using their phones during school hours, citing youth mental health and academic distraction as key factors.
At the meeting, Agrusa presented three options being considered by the district: locking phones in pouches for the day, keeping them in lockers or having teachers collect them at the start of each period.
“(The) parent meeting was a great opportunity to engage in open dialogue and hear directly from our school community regarding Governor Hochul’s ban on cell phones in an educational setting,” Agrusa said in a statement to the Herald. “Our goal is to ensure any future policy decisions prioritize student well-being and support a positive learning environment.”
For Yewande Ogun, an Elmont resident and a parent of a middle school student, phones are a problem, and a ban would be a step in the right direction — though she said she preferred the term “restriction” rather than “ban,” which seemed misleading.
“It gives their brain a little bit of rest from the phone,” Ogun said. “A lot of kids, they don’t know how to live without their phones.”
She favored the locked-pouch approach, saying it would offer structure and minimizes disruption. She pointed out that phones are already banned in many elementary school classrooms, and children manage without them just fine.
Ogun emphasized that distractions caused by phones extend beyond the classroom, disrupting sleep patterns, impacting students’ vision and encouraging late-night scrolling that leaves them exhausted. Her hope is that discouraging phone use during the day will lead to healthier habits outside the classroom.
Jazmine Rivera, who has children in both Dutch Broadway Elementary School and Elmont Memorial High School, said she left the meeting feeling uneasy
Elmont Memorial High School senior Aafia Ahmed and H. Frank Carey High School senior Natalie Osorio recently presented their research at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Columbus, Ohio.
Now in its 75th year, ISEF welcomed approximately 1,700 young scientists from around the world to compete for scholarships and prizes, according to a news release about the fair.
Ahmed and Osorio qualified for the prestigious event after achieving outstanding results at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair, the news release said. At ISEF, they presented their work to leading scientists, including Nobel laureates and industry leaders who served as judges.
Ahmed earned fourth place in the cellular and molecular biology category for her project, “The Antioxidant Role of the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway on Methylmercury-Induced Toxicity in a Mouse Astrocyte Neuronal C8-D1A Cell Line.” Her research, the news release said, explored a novel protective mechanism against methylmercury in a specific type of brain cell. She received a $600 prize.
Osorio, the news release continued, received a special award from the Drug, Chemical and Associated Technologies Association for her project, “Biophysical Investigations Into the Structure and Function of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Nitric Oxide Signaling System.” She focused on biofilms—a major cause of hospital-acquired infections—and studied how altering the structure of the nitric oxide-sending protein could be a promising treatment. Her award totaled $5,000.
— Renee DeLorenzo
By RENEE DELORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Nearly a year after staff at Stewart Manor Elementary School learned that longtime educator Gerry Georgi had died in July 2024 at the age of 97, students, colleagues, and community members gathered to celebrate his life and legacy during a moving tribute hosted at the school on June 16.
Georgi, a sixth grade math teacher who was cherished by generations of students and faculty for his devotion to education and his signature blend of discipline, humor, and heart, was remembered fondly during the event. The tribute drew a crowd of over 100 former students, teachers, administrators, and community leaders, all eager to pay homage to a man who spent decades shaping lives inside and outside the classroom.
The evening began in the school gymnasium, where current principal Pamela Stamidis welcomed attendees. In her opening remarks, she reflected on a plaque in her office that reads, “Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” She said that no one embodied that sentiment more fully than Georgi, who dedicated more than six decades of service to the Elmont School District and whose influence is still felt throughout Stewart Manor.
Georgi began his teaching career at Stewart Manor when it first opened in 1955, where he remained in the same classroom until his retirement in 2012.
In a particularly emotional moment, the two teachers who spearheaded the tribute — Christina DeCastro and Nicole Termini — were recognized for their months of planning and commitment to honoring their former colleague. Both shared personal stories of working with Georgi and preserving traditions he started, such as the school’s annual sixth-grade holiday play.
“Planning this night has been a labor of love,” DeCastro said. “We’ve been thinking about what we could do since the day we found out he was no longer with us.”
“This evening sheds some light on how an educator can have a great impact on scholars and coworkers,” Termini added. “Gerry Georgi is one of those legendary educators.”
The tribute featured speeches from former principals, teachers, past students, and even the former mayor of Stewart Manor, Joseph Troiano, all recounting their experiences with Georgi. A slideshow presentation and a display of archival photos showcased his profound impact on the school community, while anecdotes from former students highlighted his wit, unwavering dedication, and insistence on rosy cheeks for holiday performances.
“I can’t be prouder of the people who came together to put this together,” said Hope Kranidis, past principal of Stewart Manor. She shared details of Georgi’s life, including his loving fami-
ly — his wife, Insley Craig Little, and their two sons, Craig and Christian Georgi. While they could not attend the ceremony, Kranidis read a written statement from Craig and Christian.
“The school was a second home to our dad,” Craig and Christian wrote.
“As a family we’re honored that the school district has chosen to recognize our father and his dedication and years of service to Stewart Manor and the entire Elmont School District.”
“He made himself the fabric of this institution,” Troiano said. “He is every bit as much a part of the school as the brick and mortar that holds it together.”
“He was a role model for me,” former Gotham Avenue School principal
Marshall Zucker said, recounting Georgi’s impressive attendance record only ever missing a handful of school days. “The greatest thing I can remember in all my years knowing Gerry was finding one thing to make him laugh. He really did enjoy laughing.”
According to Carolyn Waldron, a retired Stewart Manor teacher who cotaught the sixth-grade class with Geor-
gi, he was the most “unforgettable character” she’d ever met. Stewart Manor was like his second home, she said, and he taught more than math to his students — he taught them to respect the school.
“He probably saved the Elmont School District a great deal of money over the years because he never needed anything,” Waldron said, laughing about Georgi’s frugality. “Except a blackboard and street chalk.”
Waldron proceeded to read some of the dozens of comments left by Georgi’s former students, some of them eliciting laughter from the audience and others pulling on their heart strings.
“I have to express how honored I feel just to share a few words about Mr. Georgi,” said Virginia Pourakis Theodoropoulos, a former student in Georgi’s class of 1995, tearing up. “You have to understand that I am the type of child and student that idolized my teachers. They were my heroes, and Mr. Georgi was the best instructor I ever had. I am so grateful for him.”
In addition to the ceremony, the school dedicated a commemorative gar-
den in Georgi’s honor. The garden features trees he personally selected during his years as a self-appointed steward of the school grounds.
Though he has passed, Gerri Georgi’s presence endures — in the traditions he created, the students he inspired, and the community he helped nurture. And as Stewart Manor looks ahead, there’s a shared sense among faculty and families that Georgi’s legacy will live on in every lesson taught, every tradition upheld, and every student who walks through the doors of the school he helped define.
“Thank you, Mr. Georgi,” Theodoropoulos said. “For being so special and such a tremendous presence for us. May we remember you eternally.”
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Kevin Tritschler, a senior at Valley Stream South High School, recently completed his Eagle Scout project by building two planter boxes, two compost bins and weather-resistant educational signage for the Valley Stream Beautification Committee’s new community garden.
“I’ve just found that litter cleanup is, besides being good for the environment, a fun pastime for me to partake in the long run — even if I forget to bring gloves sometimes,” Tritschler, 18, member of Franklin Square Boy Scout Troop 485, said. “Since then, I really became interested in sanitation and environmental conservation, even if I never had a lot of opportunities to act on it, which is why I was really excited to be given the chance to do an Eagle Scout project, because that actually gave me an opportunity to act on it.”
Tritschler’s project spanned more than a year from concept to completion. It began with a different proposal: installing litter cleanup stations in parks throughout Valley Stream. He submitted that plan to the village of Valley Stream early last year, but it was rejected over concerns about the long-term maintenance and management of the stations.
By August, Tritschler had come up with a new plan to work with the Valley Stream Beautification Committee, an organization he had previously worked with as a member of Valley Stream South’s Key Club. The group had long been working on establishing a community garden on East Hawthorne Avenue, drawing inspiration from similar projects in nearby towns. It members were enthusiastic about integrating Tritschler’s efforts into their plans, and this time the beatification committee and the Theodore Roosevelt boy scout counsel approved his project.
He raised over $1,000, which was used to buy materials for planter boxes, compost bins and signs. After completing them, he had around $54 remained, which he spent on a poster board presentation to document the project’s impact.
The planter boxes Tritschler built were placed near the corner of the gar-
den, and inspired the Beautification Committee to install additional boxes later.
“Kevin’s model that he chose was strong, easily repairable and it gave us an opportunity to think about how the future of the garden would grow,” David Sabatino, the village’s deputy treasurer for planning and development, said. “As things deteriorate, his design allows us to swap out the cedar wood very easily; it’s easy to repair. That’s the best way, and still looks great and provides what we need it to provide.”
The compost bins recycle plant waste, and the signage offers guidance on composting and environmental sustainability. These features are now key components of the community garden, which operates as a shared space where individuals and groups maintain beds and grow a variety of crops. The garden encourages sustainable practices, and allows participants to use or donate what they harvest.
“It has been really fun watching the community garden grow, knowing that Kevin had a hand in it from the ground up,” his mother, Michele Tritschler, said.
“An Eagle Scout project is supposed to be sustainable, and Kevin definitely accomplished that. These planter boxes and his compost bin will be there for a very long time. Every time I go there, it makes me smile.”
For Kevin, the experience served as
more than just a service requirement for scouting’s highest rank — it confirmed his ability to manage a large public project.
“To me, personally, it signals, if anything, that I’m actually capable of handling management tasks or projects I’d like to get done,” he said. “Doing the Eagle Scout project showed me what it’s actually like to be a leader, or at least a manager of a major public project as a whole, in that, as a leader, you’re not supposed to actually be doing the groundwork. You’re supposed to be supervising others who actually do the groundwork — at least that’s how my scoutmaster put it for me. It also helps show me just how much paperwork goes into these things.”
The project required three rounds of documentation, which had to be submitted both digitally and in printed form for review by scout leaders and others involved in the approval process.
Now an Eagle Scout, Tritschler can remain involved in his troop in an adult capacity, helping younger scouts with advancement as needed. He plans to attend Binghamton University this fall, where he will major in environmental studies.
His project will continue to benefit the community garden, contributing to its growth and long-term sustainability. The structures he built remain in active use, and serve as a foundation for ongoing civic engagement in Valley Stream.
In April of 2015, these two Nobel Peace Prize laureates celebrated His Holiness’s 80th birthday by meeting for a week at the Tibetan leader’s exiled home in Dharamshala, India. Their purpose? To answer the question: How do we find joy in the face of life’s inevitable suffering?
“From the moment of birth, every human being wants to discover happiness and avoid suffering. Sadly, many of the things that undermine our joy and happiness we create ourselves. Often it comes from the negative tendencies of the mind, emotional reactivity, or from our inability to appreciate and utilize the resources that exist within us. We create most of our suffering. So it should be logical that we also have the ability to create more joy. It simply depends on the attitudes, the perspectives, and the reactions we bring to situations and to relationships with other people. When it comes to personal happiness there is a lot that we as
individuals can do”, says the Dalai Lama
“The problem is that our world and our education focuses on external, materialistic values. We are not concerned enough with inner values. I believe everyone has the responsibility to develop a happier world. We need, ultimately, to have a greater concern for others’ well-being. In other words, kindness or compassion, which is lacking now. We must pay more attention to our inner values. We must look inside,” he further states.
Lasting joy – joy as a way of being – arises from the serenity of deep well-being and benevolence, say the authors.
A strong sense of concern for the well-being of others will make you happy in the morning, says the Dalai Lama, even before coffee. Even ten minutes of meditating on compassion, on kindness to others, and you will see its effects all day. That’s the way to maintain a calm and joyous mind.
■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Donning the uniforms of the past two collegiate national champions, Ohio State and Michigan, respectively, added a special touch to last Saturday’s inaugural National Football Foundation All-Star Classic featuring the top high school seniors from Long Island and New York City at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium.
After the Boomer Esiason Foundation enjoyed a tremendous 24-year run presenting the Empire Challenge game culminating in 2019, its replacement
made a striking debut despite real-feel temperatures in the upper 80s.
Long Island, behind Islip quarterback Brady Nash, Garden City running back Michael Berkery, Westhampton kicker/safety Brody Schaffer and a run defense as stifling as the weather, led after every quarter of a 33-15 victory before a crowd of 1,500. Nash completed 10 of 14 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns and ran for a score to earn the Boomer Esiason Player of the Game award.
“The last time this game was played, we were all in sixth grade,” said Nash, who completed scoring strikes to Berk-
ery and Half Hollow Hills West’s Jesse Brooks. “As the week went on, it got more and more serious. You could tell how much it meant to everyone,” he added.
Schaffer went 4-for-4 on extra points, booted a 24-yard field goal and had a game-sealing interception late in the fourth quarter, and Massapequa’s Tyler Villalta added a touchdown run for Long Island, which compiled a topnotch coaching staff led by Garden City’s Dave Ettinger.
Carey head coach Mike Stanley, who led the Seahawks to last season’s LI Class II title and a perfect 12-0 campaign, served as the offensive coordinator. Reade Sands, who coached Sayville to the Suffolk Division III title last fall, ran the defense. Additional highly successful coaches on the L.I. staff were Manhasset’s Jay Iaquinta, who enjoyed lengthy stints in Lynbrook and Hewlett, Wantagh’s Keith Sachs, who led the Warriors to the Conference IV title last fall, Oceanside’s Rob Blount, Longwood’s Sean Kluber, Half Hollow Hills East’s Alex Marcelin, BayportBlue Point’s Mike Zafonte and St. Anthony’s Joe Minucci.
Angelo Portillo (Sachem North) formed a wall all afternoon.
Long Island’s lead swelled to 23-9 by halftime. An early turning point came on the first play of the second quarter when a bad snap over the head of New York City punter Andrew Stosko (Xaverian) resulted in a safety to make it 9-3.
“This is such an awesome experience for the kids,” Stanley said. “Their attention to detail in practice was outstanding and they did a really nice job of executing on both sides of the ball.”
Lincoln’s quarterback-receiver tandem of Kory Reese and Solomon DeCoteau hooked up for both New York City touchdowns.
New York City/Erasmus Hall head coach Danny Landberg said logistics were a challenge and several obstacles prevented the team from having a full roster at any practice. “It was fun to be a part of this but it was really difficult to come to Long Island two hours each way for practices,” he said. “We made four of the eight sessions and attendance varied.”
Long Island trailed 3-0 before Nash directed an 11-play, 68-yard scoring drive capped by his 2-yard touchdown run. The starting O-line with center Clint Chichester (Longwood), tackles Dylan Kakareko (Oceanside) and Howie Silverstein (Carey), and guards Brennan Kurtz (Ward Melville) and
Carey’s Chrisian Todaro returned the ensuing free kick 26 yards to the NYC 35 and Long Island’s offense needed only four plays to take a 16-3 lead on Villalta’s 2-yard touchdown run. Both offenses reached paydirt on their next possessions. A 40-yard pass from Reese to another Lincoln teammate, Gicah Paul, set up DeCoteau’s 12-yard touchdown grab to cut the margin to 16-9 after a failed two-point conversion try. Long Island answered with Berkery’s 37-yard touchdown catch.
Long Island’s defense, led by run stuffers Bellport’s Trevon Holland and Wantagh’s Shareef McMillian, pitched a shutout in the third quarter and Schaffer’s field goal extended the lead to 26-9 entering the fourth.
Freeport’s Curtis Ealy III and Bayport-Blue Point’s Dylan Spano had sacks for Long Island, which outgained NYC by a 339-232 margin.
“We got the win and it was so much fun,” Nash said. “I’m a Notre Dame fan but it’s cool we get to keep these jerseys.”
John Street School third graders proudly showcased their published writing at the annual Author’s Collection event on June 17.
Hosted in the school cafeteria, a news release about the event said, students shared their work with family members and staff while enjoying light refreshments. Each young author selected three writing pieces from throughout the school year to highlight their growth and creativity.
Students followed a structured writing process that included choosing a topic, drafting, self-editing, peer review, a teacher conference, and final publica-
tion, the news release said. Projects included realistic fiction, bio poems, literary essays and argument writing.
Throughout the year, students in grades K-5 used a new curriculum, Units of Study in Writing. The news release said the program follows a workshop model that keeps students actively engaged in specific stages of the writing process.
The Author’s Collection is a beloved third-grade tradition that gives students a chance to share work they are proud of, the news release concluded.
— Renee DeLorenzo
By MADISON GUSLER & CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD of the Heralds
Final part in a series on the Southern State Parkway.
State.
In April, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a $7 million plan to reconfigure ramps at Exit 15 of the parkway. The state will eliminate the southbound exit ramp, and all traffic will exit via a redesigned northbound ramp. Exit 15N will consolidate both north- and southbound traffic entering the intersection at Corona Avenue. The changes aim to improve traffic flow for the more than 8,000 vehicles that use those ramps each day.
The Southern State Parkway is one of the busiest highways in New York state. It opened in 1927, and its original design has not been able to meet the demands of Long Island’s increased population and consistent roadway congestion, which has resulted in many deadly crashes.
Nearly 100 years later, work on the 25.3-mile parkway has ramped up, in an effort to ensure the roadway’s safety, and longevity.
Stephen Canzoneri, a public information officer for the state Department of Transportation Region 10, noted that New York has one of the most aggressive road and bridge renewal programs in the United States, and that it is investing more in the modernization of its transportation infrastructure now than at any point in the state’s history.
Canzoneri explained that a $34.1 billion, five-year capital plan adopted in 2022 to invest in major infrastructure projects is the largest of its kind in state history. This plan, which is entering its fourth year, includes substantial investments in modernizing roads and bridges on Long Island, including the Southern
At the end of the ramp, a new traffic signal will be installed, as well as crosswalks, a pedestrian refuge island, and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalk ramps. The westbound connection to the parkway from Corona Avenue will be enlarged for easier left turns, accompanied by improved signage to better direct drivers.
There will also be a reconfiguring of Exit 13, with a new single exit ramp providing access to both Central Avenue and Linden Boulevard. The entrance ramp from Central Avenue to the eastbound Southern State will be rebuilt, the traffic signal will be updated with pedestrian countdown timers, and the sidewalks along Central Avenue, between Stuart Avenue and Linden Boulevard, will be improved. This project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin construction in 2027
Enhancements at Exit 41A, from the eastbound Southern State to the northbound Sagtikos State Parkway, include increased safety measures. In 2024, new
reflective signs were installed and pavement markings were added. This year the ramp will undergo concrete pavement work, and a new concrete barrier will be installed.
Between 2021 and 2024, a significant portion of the parkway and several ramps were resurfaced with new asphalt, and highly reflective pavement markings were installed in an effort to increase driver safety. In an email to the Herald, Assemblyman Michael Durso, whose District 9 encompasses towns in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, wrote that in 2023, Wrong Way and Do Not Enter signs were refreshed or installed at all parkway ramps.
“Safety is always the top priority of the New York State Department of Transportation,” Canzoneri said. “We
continuously review safety measures in place on all our highways on Long Island and across the state, implementing enhancements wherever it is necessary.”
Safety improvements rely on responsible driving Canzoneri noted that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“Working with our partners in law enforcement, local government and the community, we will continue to do our part to ensure the safety of our roadways. But motorists must do their part,” he said. “We urge everyone to obey the rules of the road, drive responsibly and remain alert, especially in work zones.”
Durso echoed Cazoneri’s sentiment
that safety is a shared responsibility, writing that “all of the wrong way crashes that occur along the Southern State Parkway have involved impaired drivers.”
However, Durso noted an ongoing effort to address roads that have become unsafe. “As Assemblyman, I continue to work with the New York State Department of Transportation to pass along concerns from constituents and identify areas that can be improved,” he said. “Safety is my top priority.”
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, who represents the 4th Congressional District, which includes Exits 13 to 28 on the parkway, serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as the Science, Space and Technology Committee. Gillen recently sent an open letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy about a spike in traffic fatalities.
Working with our partners in law enforcement, government and the community, we will continue to do our part to ensure the safety of our roadways, but motorists must do their part.
STEPHEN CANzONERI State Dept. of Transportation
“Traffic crashes are the single leading cause of accidental death among young people on Long Island, and the second-leading cause for all residents under the age of eighty,” she wrote. “Every seven minutes on average, a serious traffic accident happens on Long Island. The failure to secure our roads has led to thousands of lives being cut short, families being ripped apart, and a terrible void left in too many communities.”
Gillen urged Duffy and the DOT to open an investigation into these accidents, and advocated for larger investments to improve roadways and increase driver safety. She is also pushing for the state to lower the legal blood alcohol limit.
“Many road safety groups have endorsed lowering our drunk-driving limit to a blood alcohol content of .05,” Gillen wrote in an email to the Herald, noting evidence that lowering the limit reduces the number of accidents and saves lives. She noted that the state of Utah, which lowered its drunk-driving threshold to .05 in 2018, saw a nearly 20 percent drop in fatal car crashes over the next calendar year.
“There is already a push to bring this limit to New York at the state level, and I’m exploring federal options to make this the law of the land across America,” she wrote.
Gillen also mentioned distracted
New York State Department
a draft of plans for the Southern State parkway’s exit 15, where two exits are being replaced by one.
the parkway near exit 13. “We need to increase high-visibility traffic enforcement,”
driving and speeding motorists. “My plan to make our roads safer includes stepping up enforcement on reckless and dangerous driving,” she wrote.
“That means giving our law enforcement agencies the tools and resources to police unsafe driving.”
Gillen stated that it’s crucial that
drivers reduce their speeds. “No matter what day or time you drive on the Southern State Parkway, there are people recklessly speeding and street racing,” she wrote. “We need to increase highvisibility traffic enforcement, and I’ll continue to push for New York State to increase the number of troopers on the
Southern State Parkway and other Long Island roads to keep people safe.”
“It’s important to remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Durso wrote. “We remind residents to abide by the posted speed limit, put down your cellphone, and never drink and drive.”
The Elmont Union Free School District hosted a night of recognition and celebration at Dutch Broadway School, honoring students, staff and board members for their achievements and service during the June Board of Education meeting on June 10.
Superintendent Marlon C. Small welcomed attendees and thanked those who helped organize the event, a news release about the meeting said.
“We will celebrate transitions into retirement, recognize excellence, and we will look forward to the future with optimism and gratitude,” Small said. “To everyone being recognized and celebrated tonight— our retirees, our departing board members, our teachers receiving tenure, our remarkable students—thank you.”
Robert Cavaliere, the district’s interim director of curriculum and instruction, began the evening by recognizing several students for achievements in art, dance and science.
Seven students were honored as winners of the Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont Parade Youth Art Contest, the news release said, which encourages fourththrough sixth-grade students to create artwork based on the theme “Celebrating Elmont and the Belmont Stakes.” Each winner received a certificate of recognition.
Students from Alden Terrace School were honored for their participation in Dancing Classrooms of Long Island, the news release said. Over a 10-week period, fourth-grade students learned traditional ballroom dances and their cultural origins. Following a schoolwide performance, a select group represented the school at the Colors of the Rainbow showcase, earning a silver medal and a school trophy. The news release said the team, accompanied by teacher Terence Lewis, received certificates of recognition.
Dutch Broadway School Principal Cynthia Qasim recognized two student research teams who earned top honors at the New York State Science and Engineering Fair on April 29, the news release continued. The teams received Grand Awards for their projects: “The Effect of Curcuma longa on the Regeneration Rate of Lumbriculus variegatus” by Davyon Walker and Usman Sheikh; and “The Effect of Sodium Chloride on the Heart Rate of Daphnia magna” by Teddyanne Calixte, Terence Brew and Samantha Ortiz.
The Elmont Elementary Teachers Association presented its annual Sixth Grade Awards to students from each of the district’s six schools. The awards, which the news release said recognize qualities such as dedication, kindness and leadership, included certificates and $50 Amazon gift cards.
Dutch Broadway physical education teacher Deborah Bennett announced that the school’s 12th annual Building Homes for Heroes Walk-a-Thon, hosted May 22, raised $14,396.
The event also recognized retiring staff members. Johane Ligondé, assistant superintendent for human resources and administration, thanked the retirees for their service, the news release said.
“All together, our retirees have a combined 311 years and three months of service to the Elmont School District,” Ligondé said. “Your contributions have helped shape countless lives of students, and your legacy will continue through the work that you have done.”
Retirees honored were: Peter Abrams, Anne Marie Amatulli, Ann Marie Bopp, Susan Costa, Theresa Fasulo, Maria Gilbert, Brenda Glynn, Marina Jimenez, Kowsilah “Inez” Mangar, Sharon McManamy, Covert Avenue School Principal Mary Natoli, Virginia Raffanello and Diane Sais.
Small also recognized outgoing board members Michael Jaime and Tameka Battle-Burkett, the news release said, presenting each with citations from the state Senate, House and Assembly. Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages offered remarks and presented proclamations to the departing trustees.
The news release said Board Vice President Lynette Battle received a certificate for completing the leader-
Dutch Broadway School’s science research students celebrate their accomplishments with Elmont teachers and board members at the Board of Education meeting on
ship training required by the New York State School Boards Association.
At the end of the meeting, the news release continued, 21 teachers received tenure in recognition of their dedication and service; Karina Cuba, Kristina Genova, Megan Giugliano, Debra Gluck, Ebony Hubbard, Randee Iafrate, Janelle James, Paulisa Jefairji-
an, Michelle LaTorre, Dana McGruder, Taylor Miklus, Mikayla Morfesi, Jonathan Ortiz, Jennifer Piropato, Melissa Piropato, Daniel Savarino, Caroline Schlatter, Filomena Scholl, Katelyn Simmons, Meghan Smith and Ashlee-Kate Tisi.
Erase Racism closely aligned with her values, morals and vision for the future. Her essay focused on systemic disparities in the healthcare industry — particularly in mental health. She said while living on Long Island, she has personally seen communities of color maintain negative stigmas and connotations about struggling with mental health — specifically, suggesting that it is a sign of weakness.
This is a dangerous stigma, she said, because when communities of color do not acknowledge this invisible handicap and consider it to be a weakness, they cannot get the help they need.
“Before even getting help,” Imani said, “they have to acknowledge that mental health is real and it doesn’t make you any lesser of a human because you may be dealing with something mentally or physically.”
Her advocacy led Imani to found the Mental Wellness Club at Elmont Memorial, which she described in her essay as a “safe space for students to speak freely about what they’re feeling.”
Mike Fluery, Imani’s guidance counselor, said Imani has been vocal about her mission for social justice since he began counseling her five years ago. He recalled her visiting his office almost daily for career advice and help seeking scholarships.
The idea for Imani to enter the Erase
Racism essay contest was entirely her own, he said, which he believes came from her own personal experience struggling with her mental health while juggling rigorous Advanced Placement classes and heavy course loads.
“She’s always talked about passion projects, and this is definitely one of them,” Fluery said. “She just wants more representation in healthcare. She wants to be that representation.”
April Francis Taylor, Erase Racism’s acting president, said Imani’s founding of the Mental Wellness Club stood out to the scholarship committee.
“To have a young person seeing an issue,” Taylor said, “being able to name the issue, and then taking that leadership and asking, ‘What can I do to create a solution?’ speaks volumes, and that’s what we need in our world today.”
ties in generational wealth, housing markets, school districts and, as Imani wrote about, healthcare.
In the 1970s, Taylor’s family was steered away from buying a home in Massapequa due to racial discrimination and ended up in East Massapequa, placing her in the less affluent Amityville school district. At age 10, she was turned away from the Massapequa Public Library by a clerk who said she could only use the Amityville Library, an experience she later recognized as systemic racism.
I personally believe that everyone’s entitled to an equal amount of healthcare because at the baseline, we’re all humans.
ImanI Lyons Senior, Elmont Memorial High School
Taylor pointed out that systemic racism is about systems and structures in a region or government uplifting one group and marginalizing another group — whether or not it is written in law. Rather than interpersonal exchanges between different races of people, these systems result in institutional dispari -
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Taylor emphasized that such segregation still shapes communities of color through unequal access to resources, though awareness and advocacy efforts by students like Imani can lead to lasting change.
Imani said she believes segregated housing markets and other such forms of systemic racism results in poorer healthcare in communities of color, and access to healthcare reflects socioeconomic status. Gentrification, gerrymandering and redlining, she said, end up pushing out Black families from their neighborhoods into areas that do not have adequate healthcare.
“I personally believe that everyone’s
entitled to an equal amount of healthcare because at the baseline, we’re all humans,” Imani said.
She feels racism on Long Island often gets swept under the rug. She cited the recent controversy over the alleged racist behaviors of Bellmore-Merrick student athletes toward Elmont student athletes during sports games — incidents in which the former president of Erase Racism, Laura Harding, spoke out about during a town hall at the Elmont Memorial High School in February. In the future, Imani said she wants to see a stronger response to incidents like these.
According to Fluery, students like Imani help drive change in underserved communities across Long Island.
“Long Island definitely needs more students and people like (Imani) to understand this,” Fluery said. “She’s just phenomenal overall. It’s her determination, her grit, and her thinking in the future while staying in the present.”
Taylor said she can’t wait to see what Imani will achieve in the future and hopes Imani returns to the Elmont community to continue her work.
“We need young people like Imani Lyons and the others who wrote these powerful essays to show up, be steadfast and work together across generations,” Taylor said, “to say, ‘What else can we do to make this country and world better?’ It takes all of us to do that.”
about the direction the phone ban might take in the Sewanhaka district. While she agreed that phones can be a distraction, she sees them as an essential tool for both communication and selfexpression — especially for her older son, Anthony Rivera, a junior at the high school who manages the baseball team’s Instagram profile, posting announcements, game results and memorable team moments.
“If a player achieved something, he’ll go on there and post it,” Rivera said of her son. “So that’s all important. I mean, I think it brings us together instead of pushing us away.”
Rivera said she supported a middle-ground approach: teachers collecting phones at the start of each class period and returning them at the end. This compromise, she said, would preserve the integrity of instructional time while still allowing brief access between classes for important messages or club responsibilities.
She also raised concerns about student safety, worrying that there has been no investment in additional security mea-
sures at the schools in the event of an emergency.
“As parents, we feel like we have to have communication with our kids,” Rivera said. “God forbid something happens, they have access to a device.”
She also challenged Hochul’s mental health argument, saying the governor was focusing only on the negative impacts of social media use.
“They’re only seeing it onesided,” she said, explaining that one of her son’s friends often reaches out to him when he’s struggling with mental health issues in school. “If there’s a child with mental health needs, he’ll feel disconnected. He’ll feel like he has nobody to reach out to.”
Shobha Narine, a middle school teacher at the Brooklyn Environmental Exploration School and an Elmont parent, brought a dual perspective, as an educator who has implemented a phone ban and as a mother of a rising eighth-grader at Elmont Memorial.
“Since September, we take phones in the morning,” Narine said, saying there is less fighting, less TikTok filming in bath -
Herald file photo
Parents in Elmont voiced a range of opinions on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s upcoming school cellphone ban after a community meeting hosted by
rooms and far fewer distractions. “It’s been good.”
While she recognized that the initial implementation of a ban could take time to adjust to among students and school staff alike, she believes that the key to success is transparency from the district and consistency and support from parents.
“We have to be supportive of the administration and leader-
ship,” Narine said. “Nothing gets done when we’re not supportive.”
Among the concerns discussed by parents was trust in the school district to handle communication not only during emergencies, but also on a daily basis. “We should have some trust in the school system to make it good for our kids,” Ogun said. “If we all work together as
parents and administrators and teachers, it can go smoothly.”
Narine added that in her experience, school staff has facilitated communication between her and her son effectively. “If I ever need to get in touch with him,” she said, “I call the school, and in five minutes he’s on the phone with me.”
Rivera, on the other hand, said that phone access is necessary for children to communicate acts of bullying or threats to their safety. She also questioned the extent to which student voices were being considered, saying that at the very least, high school students’ opinions should be taken into consideration, because they are learning to be independent adults.
“A lot of these kids are juniors and seniors with jobs,” Rivera said. “They’re going into adulthood, and cellphones are something that is a huge part of our lives. It’s a huge transition.”
After considering the feedback from the meeting, Agrusa said that a first draft of the district policy would be detailed at the Board of Education meeting on July 8, at 8 p.m., at Sewanhaka High.
By Danielle Schwab
The proud culture and legacy of Shinnecock Nation will be full display soon, representing the region’s cherished heritage. Everyone is invited to celebrate the arrival of a newly crafted dugout canoe at the museum, on June 30.
The Arrival Ceremony — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — is an opportunity for connection with our Indigenous community. Traditional songs, music and remarks from community leaders and culture bearers provide gratitude, context and a spiritual welcome as the canoe is greeted at its new home. Families can also participate in hands-on activities and sample traditional Native foods.
• June 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
The 10-foot 500-pound white pine mishoon, commissioned by Long Island Children’s Museum, was created through the collaboration of Shinnecock Cultural Steward Chenae Bullock, her mentor Darius Coombs of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and apprentice Shane Weeks of the Shinnecock Nation.
Named “Pewea Koowa,” or “Little Pine,” the vessel reflects the enduring relationship between Long Island’s waterways and the Indigenous communities who have lived in balance with the region’s waterways for generations.
“One of the most important things is for us to understand that the indigenous population is still here, as an active, living part of our community. We’re often taught ‘that’s the old times’ or ‘that was hundreds of years ago,’ when actually, no, they’re here. They’re part of us,” Museum President Erika Floreska says.
Carving the mishoon involves deep care — rooted in ancestral knowledge. It was crafted by hollowing out a 1,700-pound white pine tree using fire, controlled burning and hand tools — a method passed down through the generations.
“The best way to learn is to be an apprentice, because you have to know how to identify the right tree for the vessel,” says Bullock, who guided the project (her seventh mishoon) as lead artisan.
“You strip the bark off. You get the log right where you want it to be. Then, you roll it over and begin to start the fire on top of the log,” Bullock explains. “Once you light that fire, your eyes do not leave that mishoon at all. You are on that mishoon until it is complete.
“Paddling a mishoon in Shinnecock waters was a profoundly special experience for me. Throughout my life, I have crafted numerous mishoons, participated in a handful of maiden voyages, and paddled in many of them. However, this particular journey was unparalleled, as it took place in my home waters. Water holds memory, and I believe that in this moment, we unlocked memories for our community, as well as for the land and water that we cherish.”
Symbols carved into the vessel offer further cultural meaning. Bullock added a whale tail to honor the importance of whales in Indigenous life here.
“It begins to teach the kids what these mishoons were used for. It’s kind of hard for people to think about how our ancestors took these mishoons and actually hunted whales. Whales are a big part of our culture,” Bullock adds.
The mishoon will be placed in the museum’s upcoming permanent exhibit, “Saltwater Stories: We Need the Sea and the Sea Needs Me”, opening In October.
“It’s important to celebrate what makes Long Island unique and this connection to the ocean, but also our responsibility for taking care of it. The mishoon is a really good representation of the history, the ecology and the climate,” Floreska says.
In the spirit of reciprocity, resources for a second mishoon will be gifted to the Shinnecock community in September.
“The tradition of gifting and showing reciprocity in relationships is very important to represent the balance between each other. The idea of them gifting [the mishoon] to us, us gifting to them, is very symbolic,” she adds.
Everyone can also contribute to the making of a wampum belt from quahog clam shells, led by artist and educator Tecumseh Caesar during the event.
This ongoing collaboration between Indigenous communities and the museum offers meaningful ways for families to explore deep connections — not only to the land and water, but to histories that continue to shape the present.
“There’s a whole culture that we’ve inherited and that we have a responsibility to include and think about as we all work together to shape the future,” Floreska reminds us all.
Led Zeppelin fans, rejoice! Get The Led Out returns with “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep,” for two electrifying nights of classic rock, The six veteran musicians who make up the Philadelphia-based group delivers Led Zeppelin live with the all passion and fury these bluessoaked, groove-driven rock anthems deserve. Hailed for their powerful tribute to what many consider the greatest rock band of all time, the band delivers a faithful and highoctane recreation of Zeppelin’s iconic sound. From thunderous anthems to mystical acoustic ballads, GTLO captures the full range of Led Zeppelin’s brilliance — complete with the layered instrumentation and soaring dynamics that the band rarely performed live. . With no wigs or phony accents, just pure musical passion, GTLO focuses on the legendary band’s early years and dives deep into beloved hits and rare cuts alike. Their approach is reverent and precise, more like a classical concert than a cover band — a true celebration of timeless rock.
Friday and Saturday, June 27-28, 8 p.m. $75, $45, $35. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Paula Poundstone
Get ready for an evening of razor-sharp humor and brilliantly unpredictable comedy with the one and only Paula Poundstone. When she’s not dishing out laughs as a beloved panelist on NPR, she’s hosting her wildly popular podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone. It’s a quirky “comedy field guide to life,” filled with offbeat segments like taste tests, “cat of the week” tributes, and interviews. Her stand-up résumé is as robust as it is hilarious, with HBO specials like “Cats, Cops and Stuff, Goes to Harvard” and “Look What the Cat Dragged In.” In 2017, she added “bestselling author” to her list of accomplishments with “The Totally Unscientific Study Of The Search For Human Happiness “— a laugh-out-loud account of her quirky quest for joy. Oh, and if her voice sounds familiar to your kids? That’s because she played Forgetter Paula in “Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out.”
Friday, June 27, 8 p.m. $65, $55, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
New York Islanders Draft Party
The team invites all to a Draft Party at UBS Arena. With interviews with Islanders players and alumni, family-friendly activities, 50 percent off concessions and real-time coverage of the NHL Draft! Proceeds benefit the Islanders Children’s Foundation.
• Where: UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tpke, Elmont
• Time: 5 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or ubsarena.com
Mystic at the Plattdeutsche Weather permitting, Mystic performs outsdie on the patio Oktoberfest-style. Enjoy authentic German food and beer while you sit by a fire pit and listen to hits from every decade.
• Where: 1132 Hempstead Tpke., Franklin Square
• Time: 6:30-10:30 p.m.
• Contact: parkrestaurant.com or call (516) 354-3131
Nassau County Museum of Art’s unveils its new exhibition, “At Play,” a survey of artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. Works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the FoliesBergère in Paris. On view June 28 to Nov. 9.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
board meeting. The agenda is posted prior to the meeting on the library’s website.
• Where: 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square
• Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Contact: franklinsquarepl.org or call (516) 488-3444
In conjunction with its July school supply drive, Howie’s Heart hosts backpack tag and pencil case decorating session at Franklin Square Library for students in need. Registration open to residents and non-residents of Franklin Square.
• Where: 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square
• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 767-6444 or landmarkonmainstreet.org
Share in some lively repartee when four stand-up comedians — two men, two women, two are married, two are single — sling comedy barbs at one another in The Ivy League of Comedy’s “Skirmish of the Sexes.” The troupe — known for their elite brand of clever comedy as seen on late-night TV and Comedy Central appearances — is armed and ready with high-brow, clean fun. Laugh the night away wty tales of love and not-love, bad dinners and good dates, broken cars and unbroken dreams. Check out this lively comic take on the age-old dichotomy of who’s right and who’s wrong — done with panache and good humor. The lineup features Tony Deyo, known for his sharp, quick material and near-perfect comedic timing almost certainly gained from his years as a professional symphony musician; Calise Hawkins, a single mom who stands out with her hair, but also her smile and her onstage likability. Also Shaun Eli, rightfully called one of America’s smartest comics. Whether it’s a story about dining with a vegetarian or successfully fighting a parking ticket in criminal court, master storyteller Shaun Eli shows you that there’s hilarity in the ordinary. And Ophira Eisenberg (pictured), host of the comedy podcast Parenting Is A Joke with iHeart and Pretty Good Friends, who delivers a unique blend of smart irreverent standup and storytelling. $40, $30.
Summer Salute
• Time: 6-8 p.m.
• Contact: Visit howiesweart. org to register
The Elmont Board of Education holds their board reorganization meeting in preparation for the 2025-26 school year.
• Where: Elmont Road School, 135 Elmont Road Elmont
• Time: 8 p.m.
Calling all first responders, military members, law enforcement officers and all friends, family and supporters. All are invited to a family friendly afternoon featuring several local bands including the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums during the Plattdeutsche’s Summer Salute. Free event. Suggested $20 donation.
Public Library as they begin their Summer Reading Programs for children, teens and adults. There’s something for everyone.
• Where: 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square
• Time: 1-4 p.m.
Barbra Streisand tribute concert
• Where: 1140 Hempstead Tpke,. Franklin Square
• Time: Noon-5 p.m.
• Contact: parkrestaurant.com or call (516) 354-3131
The Town of Hempstead animal shelter visits Franklin Square Public Library for a fun afternoon as they begin summer reading programs for children, teens and adults. Come meet some of their amazing adoptable dogs.
• Where: 19 Lincoln Rd, Franklin Square
• Time: 1-4 p.m.
• Contact: franklinsquarepl.org, or call (516) 488-3444
Franklin Square cardholders are invited to visit Franklin Square
Plaza Theatricals welcomes Sharon Owens in a dynamic tribute to the legendary songstress. Sharon’s uncanny resemblance both voice and looks propelled her into the spotlight. Her incredible voice does mimic the sound of the incomparable Streisand style yet her voice as a solo artist, has a style all her own. Groove along at Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library. $40, $35 seniors.
• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont
• Time: 2:30 p.m.
• Contact: plazatheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870
Ride in support of others. The Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation.
It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International “Serving the Children of the World”, including Kiwanis’ signature programs of Klothes 4 Kids, Koats 4 Kids and Kicks 4 Kids. The beautiful ride through the Gold Coast features picturesque vistas and water views. Choose from a 25 mile loop with 1,060 feet of vertical climb or the more challenging ride with an additional 10 mile loop, totalling 35 miles, with 1,600 feet of vertical climb. Routes are clearly marked and ride is equipped with a rest stop. Snacks and water provided. Sponsorships also available. Online registration ends June 24, but walk-ins are welcome. Online registration is $50, day of is $60.
• Contact: elmontschools.org or (516) 326-5500
29 Declaration of Independence Reading Join Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and the Franklin Square Historical Society for a reading of the Declaration of Independence at Rath Park Gazebo. Bring seating.
• Where: 861 Naple Ave., Franklin Square
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 775-7260
• Where: Starting at Harry Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff
• Time: Staggered starts, rain or shine
• Contact: n2nbc.org
The Board of Trustees invites to an open
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, in trust for registered holders of First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust, Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2007-FF2, Plaintiff AGAINST The Estate of James S. Keaton a/k/a James Keaton, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 19, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 7, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 1371 North Street, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 549, Lot: 50-52 & 249. Approximate amount of judgment $711,244.77 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Ind ex #613057/2017. Howard Colton, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-057763-F01 85745 153861
& 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 COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. T.B.B. INC., et al, Defts. Index #614164/2024.
Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered June 3, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 16, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 32, Block 406, Lot 316. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure auction will be held, “rain or shine.” PETER H. LEVY, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #102364 154045
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF NEW YORK
MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, -againstPATRICIA WALDEN, 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 May 5, 2025, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and PATRICIA WALDEN, 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 July 15, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 23839 116TH AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003; and the following tax map identification: 32-623-58.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 000189/2017. Matthew Vishnick, 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. 154041
516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF STANWICH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST J, Plaintiff AGAINST JOEL BOSSOUS, TASSIANA BOSSOUS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 15, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 219 Butler Boulevard, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32 Block: 530 Lot(s): 9 & 10. Approximate amount of judgment $383,850.76 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613956/2022. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Leslie Lowenstein, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1250 New York, NY 10006 25-000569 85677 154028
AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-B, MORTGAGEBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-B, -againstJESSICA CORTEZ AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF DUANE ADAMS A/K/A DUANE A. ADAMS, 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 April 10, 2025, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-B, MORTGAGE-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-B is the Plaintiff and JESSICA CORTEZ AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF DUANE ADAMS A/K/A DUANE A. ADAMS, ET AL., are the Defendants. 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 July 22, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 41 RUSSELL AVENUE, ELMONT, NY 11003 and the following tax map identification 32-694.00-10. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ELMONT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601447/2018. Linda S. Agnew, 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. 154136
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. CITIBANK, N.A., Plaintiff -againstRICARDO CASTILLO
A/K/A RICARDO A. CASTILLO, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 18, 2024 and entered on July 26, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the
Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 22, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the westerly side of Stewart Street, distant 220 feet northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the westerly side of Stewart Street with the northerly side of Atherton Avenue; being a plot 100 feet by 40 feet by 100 feet by 40 feet. Section: 32 Block: 481 Lots 42 and 43. Said premises known as 108 STEWART STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003
Approximate amount of lien $214,001.69 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 605713/2023.
HEATHER D. CROSLEY, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 7777.248 {* Elmont Herald*} 154078
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 38-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 17, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 38-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law
No. 38-2025, amending Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations. Dated: June 17, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 154273
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE CASE NO. 21527
RESOLUTION NO. 632-2025
Adopted: June 17, 2025
Councilmember Miller offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND SETTING ASIDE CERTAIN PARKING SPACES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES FOR THE SOLE USE OF HOLDERS OF SPECIAL PARKING PERMITS ISSUED BY THE COUNTY OF NASSAU TO PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS. WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 623-2025, adopted May 27, 2025 a public hearing was duly held on the day of 17th day of June 2025, at the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the proposed establishment and setting aside of a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons, in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, all as set forth in said resolution; and WHEREAS, after due consideration, this Town Board finds it to be in the public interest to establish and set aside a certain parking space for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT
RESOLVED, that in accordance with Section 202-48 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, the following parking spaces be and the same hereby is set aside for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons:
ELMONT
HERBERT AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 118 feet south of the south curbline of Chelsea Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-180/25)
ROQUETTE AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 397 feet south of the south curbline of Pelham Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-216/25)
ROOSEVELT EAST RAYMOND AVENUE - north side, starting at a point 402 feet west of the west curbline of Cottage Place,west for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-202/25) (NR)VALLEY STREAM BARRY DRIVE WESTwest side, starting at a point 210 feet north of the north curbline of Stephen Place, north for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-171/25) WEST HEMPSTEAD
WADLEIGH AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 255 feet west of the west curbline of Jennings Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-215/25) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons: MERRICK HEWLETT AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 625 feet south of the south curbline of Donna Drive, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-256/24 - 8/06/24) (TH-206/25) ; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk shall enter this resolution in the minutes of the Town Board and shall publish a copy of this resolution once in a newspaper having a general circulation in the Town of Hempstead, and shall post a copy hereof on the signboard maintained by her, and file in her office affidavits of such publication and posting. The foregoing resolution was
seconded by Councilmember Ryder and adopted upon roll call as follows:
AND
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AYES: SEVEN (7) NOES: NONE (0) 154276 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 07/02/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.
356/25. ELMONTKimberlie A. Pierre, Renewal of grant to maintain 6’ high stockade fence in front yard., N/W cor. Heathcote Rd. & 109th St., a/k/a 131 Heathcote Rd. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Elmont 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.
154277
LEGAL NOTICE
A nonprofit org in Nassau County is seeking bids for installation of security related enhancements. Projects include: Shatter resistant glass, Impact resistant doors, exterior lighting, bollards, surveillance equipment and systems, fencing, access controls, security lighting and communications and security personnel and M&A. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of surveillance and security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references, and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained via bids@yaazoru.org, referencing “RFPOhelC”. Bids will be accepted until June 22, 2025. 154192
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 37-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 17, 2025 by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 37-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 37-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “PARKING OR STANDING
PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: June 17, 2025
Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 154272
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank of New York Mellon, f/k/a The Bank of New York as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Asset Backed Funding Corporation, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-HE1, Plaintiff AGAINST
Enide St. Louis and Jacqueline St. Preux a/k/a Jacqueline St. Preux; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 21, 2022, amended February 7, 2024 and May 21, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 30, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 44 Village Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 32 Block 666 Lot 19. Approximate amount of judgment
$626,505.65 plus interest and costs.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 003482/2011.
Foreclosure auction will be held “Rain or Shine” Eugene Gamache, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: June 10, 2025
For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 154254
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
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Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232 LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-22, Plaintiff - against - MARIE GRANATO, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 5, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 30th day of July, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying
Franklin School District honored student and staff achievements during a Board of Education meeting at Washington Street School on June 11.
“This evening is one of the most meaningful moments in our school year,” Superintendent Jared Bloom said to attendees. “A time when we pause to celebrate the people who make Franklin Square so special.”
aide at John Street School; Joseph Malone, custodian at Washington Street School; Catherine Mione, secretary to the superintendent; Tina Orlando, teacher aide at John Street School; and Maureen Schepis, bus monitor.
and being at Franklin Square, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Premises known as 128 Hunnewell Ave., Elmont, (Town of Hempstead) NY 11003. (SBL#: 35.-29-462, 463, 464 (Lot grouping in one bill))
Approximate amount of lien $432,160.23 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 602003/2020. Karl C. Seman, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: June 18, 2025
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.
154295
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
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The recognitions began with the district’s sixth grade robotics team, a news release about the meeting said, which recently competed at the STEP Statewide Robotics Competition. Over the course of seven months, 25 students met twice weekly after school to prepare. The team earned three awardsthe Faraday Vikings placed third overall, the Optimistic Einsteins won Best Presentation and Engineer’s Notebook, and the Daring Darwins earned the Most Spirit Award.
The district also honored this year’s retirees, the news release continued, who together contributed 79 years of service. The retirees are: Leandra Adames, bus driver; Nunziata Guadagnino, school monitor at Polk Street School; Joanne Maria Iacono, teacher
“These individuals have supported our students, our schools and our community with unwavering commitment and Franklin Square pride,” Bloom said. “Though their goals have varied, their impact has been lasting and meaningful.”
According to the news release, 15 teachers were also recognized for earning tenure after completing multiple years of service, undergoing evaluations, and fulfilling continuing education requirements, each of whom was introduced by their building principal.
The tenure recipients are: Rosie Carino, Maryam Chaudry, Benita Choi, Cristina Cluen, Lisa DiNardo, Sabrina Ferrigno, Christina Luca, Steven Malinowski, Jessica McAllister, Jaclyn Messados, Jason O’Connor, Christina Restivo, Michaela Roller, Emily Rose and Lauren Sink.
— Renee DeLorenzo
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Q. Our house was damaged by a fire over 10 years ago, renovated and finished. We are now refinancing, and discovered we have no “closed” permits for the work. Our bank says that they can’t continue processing until plumbing, electrical and building permits are finalized and we give the bank a copy of our certificate of occupancy. We aren’t sure why this happened, and we can’t reach the contractor or the plumber. We got a certificate that our electric was inspected. Can you explain what to do, how this happened and how long this could take? The bank is pushing us to get this done.
A. Speed and control of the project are the reason this happened. People doing construction need to get in, get out and get paid, and often there is little attention to documentation. Construction, with permits, has many steps that can be ignored. It’s rewarding to work with people in construction who respect the process.
Even with your emergency repair, the whole job, from planning to final paperwork, had to be done completely. The concern about time, and how quickly plans can be made and a permit received, sets the tone for the rest of the work. In his “Poor Richard’s Almanac,” Benjamin Franklin phrased it well: “Haste makes waste.” Rushing through planning can lead to delays if the plans are incomplete.
At each step, it seems, speed is of utmost importance. Banks, lawyers, insurance companies, contractors, real estate salespeople and building officials all have an interest, at some point, in moving you through the process of pushing for plans to be finished, a permit to be obtained and the construction work commenced. But plans and permits aren’t done by pushing a button on a computer. By diminishing this part of the process and only concentrating on getting the work done, other important parts are also ignored.
The back end of the job is making sure that each step of the work was inspected, and passes inspections. Covering up work before it is inspected is very common and done with purpose, often to avoid losing time, covering up inferior work or because the customer isn’t as important as their wallet.
You needed a full outline, a checklist, to follow through. The checklist would have shown you needed a final electrical inspection, for which you received a written certificate; a final plumbing inspection, which your plumber was required to arrange; and a final building inspection, which your contractor should have arranged. After the final inspection, you would have then received the final document you needed.
You’ll need to call your building department and confirm what inspections are needed. If you can’t find the plumber, you’ll need to either request the final plumbing inspection or spend the money to have another plumber follow through with starting the paperwork over again. Once these have been done, you’ll request the final building inspection walk-through, and hopefully thereafter receive the final certificate of completion. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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Former New York City Police Commissioner Bernie Kerik died recently. In many ways, Bernie’s death marked the beginning of the passing of an era. He was the commissioner when New York was attacked by terrorists on Sept. 11, 2001, and he became a symbol of New York’s resistance and courage with his leadership in the days, weeks and months afterward.
Before becoming commissioner, he was a heroic police officer and detective, receiving numerous departmental awards, including the Medal of Valor.
Rosemary and I were proud to call Bernie our friend, in good times and bad. And there were some bad times, primarily when he was imprisoned for ethical crimes for which he was later pardoned. A number of us believed that he had been targeted for prosecution, and that his sentence was excessive. But Kerik would be the first to admit he was no saint. He did his time and went on with his life. Besides occasionally getting together with him for dinner, I looked forward to the massive barbecues he hosted for police officers and veterans
at his home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey.
I believe in judging people on the entirety of their lives. For those who knew him or even just observed him, Kerik passed that test. The respect and admiration for him were amply demonstrated by the crowd of mourners at his funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, who shared memories of Bernie — especially his loyalty to friends, his patriotism and his unwavering leadership after 9/11.
In addition to Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the attendees included law enforcement officials, government leaders and well-known New Yorkers.
HCairo and I went after President Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally. On the day of the funeral, Kash described Kerik as a “titan among men” and “our warrior in the Colosseum when the world needed saving.”
e came to symbolize New York’s courage in the aftermath of Sept. 11.
The day of the funeral, Rosemary and I arrived early. Among the first people we met outside the cathedral was famed journalist and media personality Geraldo Rivera, a longtime friend of Kerik’s. Rivera and I spoke about the times we spent with Bernie during his tough days, and how tough he was during those days.
Also outside the cathedral was FBI Director Kash Patel. The last time I had seen Kerik was with Patel last October at Il Milano Restaurant in Manhattan, where County Executive Bruce Blakeman, county Republican Chairman Joe
Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani and FDNY Commissioner Tom Von Essen, the city officials who were closest to Kerik in leading New York back after 9/11, appeared heartbroken and devastated. Current Mayor Eric Adams also attended, and I commended him for authorizing this ceremonial tribute to Kerik.
I also spoke with the NYPD’s longest-serving commissioner, Ray Kelly, and current Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Kelly succeeded Kerik, and served for 12 years as commissioner. I met Tisch when she served as Kelly’s deputy commissioner for information and technology.
The NYPD Pipes & Drums performed, and many hundreds of NYPD officers lined up to pay their respects. Before the Mass began, Rosemary and I had the chance to meet in the cathedral with Dolan, a true man of God and a man for all seasons who always supports the efforts of the men and women in blue.
The hearse carrying Kerik’s remains arrived outside the cathedral as the bag-
pipes blared. Then the flag-draped coffin was carried up the steps of the cathedral to be blessed by Dolan, who led the funeral procession of family members and friends up the center aisle to the altar. Rosemary and I sat with Joe Lhota, formerly Giuliani’s deputy mayor, who is now chief of staff at NYU Langone Medical Center.
The funeral was definitely a celebration of Kerik’s life, best summarized by an opening sentence of NYPD Chaplain Msgr. David Cassato’s eulogy, which elicited laughter and knowing smiles as he patted the coffin: “Each of us has a Bernie Kerik story.” Kerik’s brother and his son Joe, a hero Newark SWAT team cop, also delivered moving eulogies.
At the conclusion of the funeral, Kerik’s coffin was carried from the cathedral. Taps was played. The American flag was taken from the coffin and presented to Bernie’s widow, Halla, by Patel and Giuliani. Accompanied by the pipe band playing “America the Beautiful,” the hearse headed slowly south on Fifth Avenue. A man who had done so much to lead New York through its darkest hour was leaving the arena. But the memories would remain. Bernie Kerik, R.I.P.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Alot of people are upset about the recent reports of the murder of the former speaker of the Minnesota legislature. If there is a list of concerned citizens, please put me at the top. Having served in elected office for 23 years, I have good reason to be worried about the fate of thousands of public officials who dedicate their lives to serving us. We are living in very sick times, and it’s time for the American people to become a part of the solution and not the problem. Less than two weeks ago, a deranged man took it upon himself to launch a carefully orchestrated campaign to kill elected officials in Minnesota. He created an enemies list and armed himself with AK-47s and other deadly weapons. You will note that I do not describe his victims and intended targets as Democratic lawmakers because party affiliation does not give potential murderers a free pass to kill only certain people. The Minnesota horror show coincid-
Ded with the eighth anniversary of the mass shooting during a practice session for the Congressional Baseball Game in Alexandria, Virginia. U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, a Republican, suffered serious injuries that have left him with permanent disabilities. His attacker also shot three other people. It is coincidental that Scalise’s attacker was angry with Republicans, and the Minnesota killer had grievances with Democrats.
These events are part of a long history of people acting out of hatred for elected officials. In January 2011, U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords was shot during a constituent meeting in Casas Adobes, Arizona. Six innocent people were killed that day. The assassin was Jared Lee Loughner, who had a longstanding grievance with Giffords. He is currently serving a life sentence in prison.
today, whether you’re a Democratic or Republican official, there’s a target on your back and there are an abundance of people out there who want to harm you.
emocrat or Republican, there are lots of people out there who want to harm you.
Some people think the solution to this madness is providing more security guards for certain officials. That easy fix would cost taxpayers billions of dollars, and is not the solution. Instead, the first step is to voice loud criticism of anyone who supports violence against any elected official. Shortly after the Minnesota slaughter of two innocents, Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee baselessly suggested that their assassination was connected to the political left.
The second solution to this constant wave of horror is very much in the hands of the political establishment, starting with President Trump, who has escaped two attempts on his life. It is incumbent on him to set a new tone against violence by either side. While the nation might be split politically, a president who speaks out on this issue is doing all Americans a favor.
Aside from my worry for the people who currently serve the people, I am deeply concerned about the impact these attacks will have on potential candidates for public office. I think if I were interested in running for the first time, my family would be begging me to reconsider. If qualified people decide that being an elected official is too dangerous, the country, and our system of government, will be the losers.
Since that time there have been countless cases of violence against public officials. President Trump has been the target of two assassination attempts, and just two months ago, another deranged person attempted to kill Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro by setting fire to the governor’s mansion. Sadly,
“This is what happens when Marxists don’t get their way,” Lee wrote on his personal X account with an image of suspected murderer Vance Boelter. In a follow-up tweet, he wrote “Nightmare on Waltz Street” in a misspelled reference to Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Waltz. Lee’s comments were met with a firestorm of complaints, but to date he has not retreated from his inflammatory remarks. If they go uncensored by the Senate leadership, America is the loser.
It is my fervent hope and prayer that this cycle of violence will end, but it won’t be without all Americans being a part of a new crusade.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
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ummer should be a time of freedom, fun and new experiences for young people. But for teenage and young-adult drivers, the warmest months of the year come with a chilling nickname: the 100 Deadliest Days.
During this span, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, fatal crashes involving teen drivers spike significantly. The reasons are numerous and well documented — but the solutions are equally clear and achievable, if families and communities act with urgency.
Between 2019 and 2023, 13,135 people nationwide were killed in crashes involving teen drivers. One more person per day died in those crashes during the summer than at any other time of the year, according to an American Automobile Association analysis of accident data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Why is this time of year so deadly for young drivers?
The first and most obvious reason is increased time on the road. School is out, teens have more freedom, and that translates to more hours behind the wheel — many of them without adult supervision. This newfound autonomy can lead to increased exposure to risky situations, especially for drivers still learning the nuances of safe vehicle operation, who often create those situation.
Then there are the social factors. Summer is filled with gatherings, beach trips and late nights with friends. Often, teen drivers are not alone in the car, so
To the Editor:
It was refreshing to see a Democrat, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, offering ideas about the concerns of everyday people in his op-ed last week, “Centrist Democrats need to listen, learn and lead.”
Suozzi wrote a column not once bashing President Trump.
He went one step further. He sent a letter to the president about working together to address border security, immigration reform and a path to legalization, and the release of a bagel manager from Port Washington who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Working with the president may not make Suozzi popular with his fellow Democrats, but the majority of the people approve of both parties cooperating.
It’s what the people want, not about the power of the parties.
Recent developments involving Iran are more reasons why we should heal our divi -
each fatal crash involving a teen has the increased chance of claiming a number of lives. The distractions of conversation, music, phones and peer pressure can divert a driver’s attention at exactly the wrong moment. Reading and sending text messages, as well as watching and recording TikTok and Instagram videos, while driving are accidents waiting to happen, too.
Inexperience compounds the problem. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted, teen drivers are still developing the judgment and skills they need to respond to rapidly changing road conditions. They may fail to recognize hazards, misjudge distances or respond too late to hazardous situations. Add common behaviors such as speeding and driving under the influence, and it becomes clear why summer teen crash statistics rise so predictably.
Other risks are more situational, but just as serious: unfamiliar routes, fatigue from erratic summer sleep schedules, heat-related vehicle problems and heavy seasonal traffic. Each of those factors can test a teen’s ability to maintain control behind the wheel.
What can, and should, parents do without unnecessarily limiting their children’s freedom? First, set clear rules about when, where and with whom they can drive. That includes enforcing curfews and limiting the number of passengers that can accompany them. Research has consistently shown that the presence of more than one teenager in a car increases the risk of a
crash.
Second, lead by example. Teens model the behavior they see. Parents should avoid using phones while driving, follow traffic laws and show that safe driving is a lifelong habit — not just the subject of a lecture.
Open, honest communication is also vital. Conversations about the dangers of drinking, drugs and distracted driving should be ongoing, not one-time talks. When teens understand the reallife consequences of risky driving, they’re more likely to make responsible choices.
Technology can help, too. Apps that provide driving feedback and location tracking — like those recommended by Family1st GPS — offer an added layer of safety and accountability. These tools aren’t about spying; they’re about creating a support system.
Emphasize safety basics: always wearing a seatbelt, obeying speed limits, and keeping eyes on the road and off the phone.
The 100 Deadliest Days will continue to claim many more lives than they should until families, schools and communities step up. Public service campaigns, driver education refreshers and localized policies — like New York state’s Zero Tolerance law, which dramatically reduced the allowable blood alcohol content for drivers under age 21 — can make an impact.
This summer, let’s treat teen driving safety like the urgent public health issue it is — and make sure that the road to adulthood isn’t cut short by tragedy.
As the leader of the Democratic caucus in the Nassau County Legislature, I’ve always believed that public service is about one thing: delivering results for the people who elected us. That means putting partisanship aside and focusing on what matters — keeping our communities safe, ensuring fair access to resources and doing the hard work of good government.
Unfortunately, we’ve had to fight tooth and nail for basic fairness from the administration of County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
Until recently, over $1.3 million in grant funding for first responders in Democratic districts was being blocked. That’s not just wrong; it’s dangerous. Meanwhile, the county executive approved 34 Republican-backed projects worth $2.5 million, many of them nearly identical to the proposals submitted by
Democrats. Thirty-four to zero. That’s not a coincidence. That’s a political blockade.
Our Democratic team wasn’t going to let that slide. We made the decision to leverage our power on the capital plan, something that can’t pass without a 13-vote supermajority. We drew a line in the sand and demanded that these long-overdue grants be awarded. The result? A month later, we secured the funding our districts deserved, and we passed a capital plan that invests in roads, buildings, parks and other critical infrastructure across the county.
cosplay isn’t what Nassau families asked for, and we deserve full transparency about how such a dangerous and misguided idea was ever allowed to take root.
We got the job done by demanding that longoverdue grants be awarded.
That’s what happens when you stand up instead of standing by. We got the job done.
But make no mistake, our work is far from over. We’re still holding this administration accountable, especially when it comes to public safety.
My colleagues on the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee are continuing their legal efforts to dismantle Blakeman’s reckless, unauthorized “armed militia.” Taxpayer-funded paramilitary
sions. There are many external actors who would like to see our country torn apart. We shouldn’t make it so easy for them.
TONY GIAMETTA Oceanside
To the Editor:
Organizations in New York can pay a person with a disability as little as 5 cents hour, and it is legal. This must end.
It’s time for the state to eliminate the subminimum wage and treat people with disabilities with the fairness they deserve. The State Senate has passed Bill S.28 to do just that, and now it’s time for the Assembly to act before their session ends.
As the father of a young man with Down syndrome, I’ve seen firsthand what people with differing abilities can accomplish when given the chance. My son, John Cronin, co-founded a business with me, John’s Crazy Socks, and we have learned that hiring people with differing abilities isn’t charity; it’s good business. More than half of our employees have a disability. They work hard, produce extraordinary results, and earn the same wage as their colleagues.
The subminimum wage law, a relic of 1938, allows people with disabilities to be paid as little as 5 cents an hour. That’s not just outdated, it’s wrong. It tells people that their labor, and their lives, are worth less.
New York should lead the nation by ending this discriminatory practice. No more second-class workers. No exceptions. I urge the Assembly to pass S.28 and help build a more inclusive and just future for all.
MARk X. CRONIN
Cofounder and president, John’s Crazy Socks Farmingdale
We’re also facing a crisis that cuts across every ZIP code, every income level, every community: the opioid epidemic.
Nassau County has received nearly $100 million in opioid settlement funds from drug manufacturers, money meant to save lives. Yet barely $5 million of it has actually been spent. That’s inexcusable. People are dying while bureaucracy and mismanagement keep help out of their reach.
That’s why we took action. To break through the delays and dysfunction, the Legislature approved the hiring of an outside firm to manage a public grant portal that will finally move this process forward. This change will help expedite funding to the nonprofits and agencies that provide prevention, treatment and recovery services. We’re making sure
the money gets where it belongs, which is with people and organizations fighting to save lives.
Through all of this, I remain inspired by the everyday heroes in our communities: first responders, educators, nurses, outreach workers and so many others who make Nassau County a better place. It’s their example that keeps me going, and it’s why I will never stop fighting for a government that serves everyone, not just the politically connected few. So whether it’s pushing for fairness in funding, protecting our communities from dangerous policies or getting lifesaving resources into the right hands, know this: The Democratic caucus is united, we are focused, and we are just getting started. We’ll keep showing up. We’ll keep holding this administration accountable. And we’ll keep fighting for you.
Delia DeRiggi-Whitton represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District, and is the Legislature’s minority leader.
The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.
The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.
To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion
