Reverend checks off 50 years at church
Hempstead Town Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby, left, with Lorraine Dawley, congratulated Rev. Robert Dawley for his 50 years of continual service to the Freeport Community Church of the Nazarene last month.
Mixed views on Gov. Hochul’s proposal to ban smartphones
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
Student smartphone use in schools continues to be a hotly debated subject of debate, revolving around the question of whether the devices are essential for communication, or harmful distraction.
Last month, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a plan to restrict phone use in schools statewide as part of her fiscal year 2026 executive budget proposal. If implemented, the restrictions would take effect in the 2025-26 school year.
“From parents and teachers to social justice and law enforcement leaders, New Yorkers agree
Meeting the high school’s top students
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
Freeport High School has named Lourdes Saunders-Blake valedictorian for the class of 2025 and Oluwadamiloju Popoola as its salutatorian — with both students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement, dedication to extracurricular activities, and a deep connection to their school and community.
For SaundersBlake, 18, being named valedictorian is a reflection of years of hard work and perseverance.
“I would just say it’s definitely nice to feel like your work paid off,” she said.
that our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling,” Hochul said. “Using the insights from my statewide listening tour, this comprehensive proposal to restrict smartphone use in schools will ensure that New York’s statewide standard for distraction-free learning delivers the best results for our kids and educators.”
Hochul’s proposal cites concerns about the effect of unfettered smartphone usage on students’ mental health. The initiative would prohibit students from using phones and other internet-enabled devices throughout the entire school day — including in classrooms, lunch -
said. “… I think it’s definitely something I’m very grateful for to have that, like support system and community here at the school.”
Popoola, 17, who was born in Nigeria and moved to Freeport in 2010, expressed similar sentiments after being named salutatorian, with a particular emphasis on family and heritage.
I would just say it’s definitely nice to feel like your work paid off.
loURDEs sAUNDERs-Bl AkE valedictorian
She also emphasized the support she received from teachers and classmates, recalling the moment the top 10 students were announced.
“Just hearing the students, and like my fellow classmates and my friends cheering when they heard the different, various names of the top 10 being announced,” Saunders-Blake
“I guess it like tightens my pride, my background, my country, and it makes me so proud to represent Nigeria,” she said. “I’m also proud to represent my parents as well, because they’re the reason I’m here.”
“I guess I wanted to represent my country and prove myself to other people,” she added.
Saunders-Blake, whose parents both work in academia, spent part of her early education in Ghana while her mother taught at NYU’s campus there.
“I think, like everything that I do now is really learned in Ghana, whether that is like participating in the arts, doing
Continued on page 8
Courtesy Town of Hempstead
HERALD SchoolS
Gibyn Elementary marks Year of the Snake
Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School rang in the Year of the Snake with its annual Lunar New Year parade on Jan. 28. Students lined the hallways, cheering as a symbolic Chinese dragon made its way through the school.
They proudly waved handmade miniature dragons, lanterns, hats, and colorful
signs to mark the occasion.
The annual parade is part of the school’s effort to educate students about the rich traditions and customs of Chinese culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for the holiday’s significance.
–Mohammad Rafiq
Students lined the hallways as the parade passes by waving signs and lanterns to celebrate Lunar New Year.
Photos courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School rang in the Year of the Snake on Jan. 28.
Strong’s Marine marks 80 years of service
In 2025, Strong’s Marine proudly marks 80 years as a family-owned and operated business, built on a foundation of excellence, service, and a passion for the water.
Since its founding in 1945, Strong’s Marine has grown into one of the Northeast’s premier marine dealerships, representing world-class boat and yacht brands while maintaining its commitment to “Super Service.”
In addition to serving Long Island at larger through a number of locations in both Nassau and Suffolk, Strong’s partnership with Al Grover’s Marina in Freeport, offers premium new boat sales to boaters in the area.
Al Grover’s Marina, which has been serving the boating community worldwide since 1950, is a longtime staple of Freeport’s Nautical Mile.
Founded by Al Grover, the marina made history in 1985 by setting a Transatlantic World Record aboard an outboard boat.
“Strong’s at Grover’s,” located at 435 S. Main St., Freeport, NY 11520, provides a diverse selection of premium boat brands, including Cobalt, Regal, Pursuit, Grady-White, and Cobia, as well as luxurious yachts from Cruisers Yachts and Fairline.
Customers can explore a wide range of vessels year-round, with seasonal boat shows offering a chance to experience the latest models firsthand.
The Strong family’s legacy began with Stewart Strong, who established the standard of “Super Service” in 1945 when he launched the Strong & Holland Marina in Lindenhurst.
His son, Dave Strong, continued the tradition, founding Strong’s Marine in Mattituck in 1965.
Dave and his wife, Dottie, instilled their passion for boating and service in
their son Jeff Strong and his wife, Re, who have since dedicated themselves to making Strong’s Marine the gold standard in Northeast boating.
“We are incredibly grateful to our customers, team, and community who have been with us throughout this journey,” said Jeff Strong, President of Strong’s Marine.
“Celebrating 80 years of business is a
true milestone, and it’s a testament to the trust and loyalty of those who share our love for life on the water.”
Today, Strong’s Marine is led by Jeff Strong and his son, Ryan Strong, Vice President, who represents the fourth generation of leadership.
With multiple locations across Long Island, Strong’s Marine offers comprehensive services, including boat and yacht sales, certified service technicians, dockage, boat clubs, state-of-theart marina facilities, and exceptional customer care.
“At Strong’s Marine, our mission has always been to provide our customers with exceptional boating experiences,” said Ryan Strong. “As we celebrate 80 years, we are focused on honoring our heritage while embracing innovation and growth for the future.”
Beyond its services, Strong’s Marine remains deeply rooted in the local community. Decades of hosting events, forging partnerships, and contributing to boating culture have made Strong’s Marine a trusted name for families across Long Island.
To commemorate this milestone, Strong’s Marine will host special events throughout the year, celebrate its loyal customers, and offer exclusive promotions. For more information, visit www. strongsmarine.com
–Mohammad Rafiq
Art studio gains $3000 for Bethany House
Hue Studio in Rockville Center came together at the American Legion for a fundraiser for Bethany House, an organization dedicated to supporting women and children experiencing homelessness in Nassau County with homeless shelters in Roosevelt and Baldwin. With over 50 people attending the event — a paint night — the group raised $3,000 for the organization through a fun night of decoupage and giving.
The fundraiser, titled “Giving Plates,” was a collaboration between Bethany House and Hue Studio. The evening featured an arts and crafts activity where attendees decorated glass plates as part of a unique tradition. Each decorated plate is intended to be filled with food and passed along from one person to another, Anne DeGruttola, Director of Administrative Services at Bethany House, explained, symbolizing the spirit of giving and sharing.
There were other treats available at the Jan. 23 event too, like charcuterie boards from Let It Brie, in Rockville Centre, and raffle prizes for all ages, including tickets to Broadway shows and Adventure Park.
Participants at the fundraiser enjoyed charcuterie boards from Let It Brie, in Rockville Centre, and had the chance to win prizes from a variety of raffles, including Broadway show tickets and passes to Adventure Park. The event was made possible through the partnership
of local businesses and supporters, with this collaboration coming from the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce, where Bethany House and Hue Studio connected. This is not the first time Rockville Centre has run fundraisers for the organization, DeGruttola said.
“We have so much support from Rockville Centre,” she said.
Bethany House operates three emer-
gency homeless shelters in Baldwin and Roosevelt, a small affordable housing unit and a privately funded transitional housing building, DeGruttola said. The organization offers a variety of services beyond emergency shelter, including mental health resources, therapeutic activities like yoga and support programs aimed at helping residents achieve self-sufficiency. The organiza -
tion is well-supported among local communities, DeGruttola said.
“We always are having beautiful, different things happen from community partnerships,” she said.
For more information on upcoming events or to support Bethany House, visit their website at BHNY.org/events or follow them on Instagram at @BethanyHouseNY.
–Kelsie Radziski
Courtesy Strong’s Marine
Jay, Re, Jeff, and Ryan Strong represent multiple generations of leadership at Strong’s Marine, carrying forward the legacy of excellence in the marine industry.
The Rockville Centre community painted ‘giving plates’ on Jan. 23 to raise money for Bethany House.
Photos courtesy Anne DeGruttola Laura Grace, owner and head instructor at Hue Studio, hosted the paint night at the American Legion in Rockville Centre.
New proposal contradicts current method
rooms and study halls.
Students would be allowed to carry basic cellphones without internet access, and use school-issued laptops and tablets for classroom work.
Each school district would be responsible for creating a plan to store students’ phones, and for providing a way for parents to contact their children when necessary. The state would allocate $13.5 million in funding for storage solutions such as cubbies or lockers.
The Freeport school district already has policies regulating personal technology use, though they are more flexible than Hochul’s proposal. The district’s policy manual acknowledges that technology can enhance learning, and states that students may use personal devices for instructional purposes under the direction of school personnel.
Outside class, students are allowed to use personal technology — including smartphones — during non-instructional time, such as lunch and in between periods, as long as they follow school guidelines. The proposed statewide ban would eliminate this flexibility.
While Hochul argues that this would improve students’ focus and mental health, some Freeport parents are concerned about losing contact with their children throughout the school day.
One parent, Joseph Anthony-Smith, questioned whether banning smartphones entirely is realistic, given current safety concerns in schools.
“I think taking away all use of cellular devices during school hours is unrealistic these days, especially when considering the rate of gun violence in this country,” Anthony-Smith said over text message. “Firearms still hold the top spot for cause of death of children in the U.S., and so it gives many families some peace of mind knowing their kids can reach them if something happens at school.”
He added that while limiting phone use might help students focus in class, safety should be the priority. “If our kids had an overall safer experience in the school environment, I’d be all for it,” Anthony-Smith said. “However, that is not the reality for our kids currently. Perhaps the focus should be on developing more rigorous gun laws first before taking away a potential lifeline.”
Another parent, Dawn de la Llera, criticized the complexity of implementing a new policy when existing rules already regulate phone use. “I think attempting to make blanket policies that are rife with endless exceptions are ineffective and cause more trouble than they’re worth,” she said over text. “If we say no unsanctioned use, then that
Planning for Those You Are Responsible For
A client came in to see us for their follow-up consultation. The client shared that, in between their two meetings with us, the husband‘s brother had suffered a stroke and was now in a rehabilitation facility. He was a bachelor. He had no power of attorney or health care proxy. He may or may not have had a will -- they didn’t know. Further, they were unable to get access to his apartment to clean out the fridge, get his clothes, and look for his papers, because he had failed to put them on the list of persons approved to enter in the event of an emergency.
One of the most overlooked areas in estate planning is the question of who you are responsible for. Do you have a friend or relative who you know will need to rely on you if something happens? Either they have no one else or everyone else is too far away. If you have the responsibility, then make sure that you have the documents you will need to carry out that responsibility. Otherwise, you may be facing a guardianship proceeding. Similarly, so many of our clients have adult
children with young families. Do you know whether your children have wills, powers of attorney and health care proxies?
There are serious pitfalls for young families if one spouse dies without a plan. Roughly half of their assets go to their surviving spouse and half to the children. The court will appoint a legal guardian for the children’s money and the unused portion must be turned over to them at age eighteen, ready or not!
A potentially more serious problem for older adults is whether their sons and daughters who have families possess adequate life insurance. If your son or daughter dies without sufficient life insurance, you may be called upon to support and educate your grandchildren out of your retirement money.
Finally, if you are responsible for the care of an elderly parent, then make sure it is you who has the power of attorney and health care proxy and not another sibling who may end up controlling the situation from afar, much to your dismay.
516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com
implies that there is sanctioned use. Who determines when, where and why? How will those rules be communicated to the staff, students, and parents, and then who is responsible for policing this new policy?”
De la Llera also questioned whether new rules are necessary when current policies already prohibit phone use during class.
“Are these policies that already exist not being enforced, which is why we need to create new blanket policies?” she asked. “Creating some new policy, which replaces the existing policy that is fundamentally the same, doesn’t seem to make a whole lot of sense to me.”
Howard Colton, another district parent, said he believed Hochul’s proposal has merit, but emphasized that parents need a way to stay in touch with their children — which the governor’s plan states schools must provide.
“I think her idea is a very good idea, and our children need to focus on school, not on their cellphones, social media and texting,” Colton said.
Freeport district officials declined several requests for comment on Hochul’s plan, instead directing the Herald to the district’s current policy manual.
As parents across the state await details on how Hochul’s plan would be
gov. Kathy Hochul announced her proposal to ban smartphone use in schools statewide as part of her 2026 executive budget, citing concerns about students’ focus and mental health.
enforced, the debate over balancing students’ mental health, safety and communication continues, as does discussion of the governor’s budget in the State Legislature.
Herald file photo
CHASE TIMBERLAKE
Baldwin Senior Basketball
AFTER HELPING LEAD the Bruins to a historic 2023-24 season highlighted by a fourth straight Nassau Class AAA title, Timberlake joined a very short list of 1,000-career point scorers in program history. On Jan. 17, he reached the milestone previously achieved only by his head coach Darius Burton, a 1993 Baldwin graduate. Timberlake is well on his way to a second All-County selection, averaging a team-high 24 points per game.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, Feb. 6
Boys Basketball: Baldwin at G.N. North 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Carey at Roosevelt 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Elmont at Hewlett 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: G.N. South at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Lawrence at West Hempstead 5
Girls Basketball: South Side at Manhasset 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Mepham at New Hyde Park 5 p.m.
Girls Baksetball: Jericho at MacArthur 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Bethpage at Kennedy 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: V.S. Central at Mepham 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Manhasset at South Side 7 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 7
Girls Basketball: V.S. South at Lynbrook 4:45 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Syosset at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Clarke at Mineola 6:30 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Seaford at Malverne 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Floral Park at Wantagh 7 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Wrestling: Nassau County Division 1 qualifier tournaments at Farmingdale, Long Beach, Oceanside, Jericho, Massapequa and Kennedy 9 a.m.
Gymnastics: Coaches Invitational at North Shore 10 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Hicksville 12 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Freeport wrestles to conference crown
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
In the leadup to the individual county championships Freeport wrestling got some added confidence with some team history.
The Red Devils won the program’s first league title in more than a decade by capturing the Conference 1A championship with a successful regular season dual meet season culminating in a 45-27 win against Syosset on Jan. 16. The accomplishment gave Freeport a chance to compete in the Nassau County Division I Dual Meet championships where it dropped a competitive match to seventh-seeded Bellmore JFK, 35-26 on Jan. 23.
“We were definitely looking forward to the dual meet season as we thought we had a pretty good lineup and we were the one seed so we knew that it was right there for us,” said fifth-year Freeport wrestling head coach Matt Cellan. “In the only championships we fell a little short, but our goal is always the end of season with the individual counties and states.”
Freeport next turns its attention to individual county qualifiers this weekend where Cellan is hoping to qualify around 15 wrestlers for the county championships at Hofstra University’s Mack Sports Complex on Feb. 15-16.
Among the Red Devil grapplers with potential for a top three county finish that would earn a trip to the state championships in Albany is freshman Christian McCravey at 116 pounds, who placed third in the counties last year as an eighth grader.
Senior Jahari Lloyd (124
pounds) is also making a push for a county title or state championship appearance after finishing third at 116 as a junior. Fellow senior Anthony Velasquez (170) is also looking to reach the podium again following a fifth place showing in the same weight class last winter.
Heavyweight wrestlers Edwin Aracena and John Saraldi will both have a chance to earn All County accolades in a deep weight class.
“They could beat anyone in the county,” said Cellan of his heavyweights. “There’s like 10 guys that are pretty good and any one of them could be in the finals.”
Junior Kerry Ellis (170) is also in the midst of a big season with close to 30 wins at 138 pounds a season removed from winning the county qualifiers at 131 during his sophomore campaign. Sophomore Jason Lara (170), junior Carlos Aguilar (160) and senior Yosiah De La Rosa (215) will also be looking for deep county runs.
Cellan said county qualifiers will be the first team he has had his full lineup of wrestlers after many have missed time due to illness with a flu bug going around. While this year’s team lacks the depth of the 2023.24 squad that qualified 14 for the county championships, Cellan said the combination of veteran leaders and underclassmen positions the program well for the future.
“This year we have some individuals that are at a really high level, but we also have a lot of young guys that are unproven,” Cellan said. “We’re a little thin this year, but we have a lot of really experienced guys that are coming back.”
Donovan Berthoud/Herald
Senior Yosiah De La Rosa, right, will look to make noise at the county championships a few weeks down the road at Hofstra.
NASSAU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
WE’RE EXPANDING SERVICES
NUMC’s new clinical services can help all Nassau residents focus on preventative health care in 2025. We’ve recently expanded these offerings and have longer hours to make staying healthy more convenient than ever before.
–
12:30pm
9am
2:30pm
12:30pm
NASSAU HEALTH CARE UPDATE
Ó NUMC is running out of money and could close its doors in
Ó NUMC is poorly run and should be taken over by Albany
be
by
NUMC’s
NUMC’s
NUMC earned the coveted Gold Seal rating from the Joint Commission and increased its safety rating in 2024
NUMC opened it’s new MRI facility in 2024 and expanded clinical services
and we’re here for you and your family. We treat everyone –
$0 in grants
The Hochul Administration and NYS provided for NUMC in 2024. NYS has now been exposed for breaking federal law through a massive Medicaid scam to cheat Nassau residents out of additional funding.
Garden City Antiques and Fine Arts
‘Hard work paid off,’ says high school valedictorian
extra curricular activities, or just like my enjoyment of learning,” she said.
Popoola’s passion lies in music, having played the violin as the concertmaster of the honors orchestra. She has also participated in the school’s musicals, all-county orchestras, and other selective ensembles.
Saunders-Blake’s extracurricular involvement spans athletics, academics and the arts.
She has also competed in Science Olympiad and the Science Bowl at Brookhaven National Labs, in addition to being heavily involved in theater and music.
“Last year, I was the lead role in our musicals, and we just did ‘Guys and Dolls,’ and I played Sarah Brown,” she said.
Popoola is considering a career in economics or accounting, with aspirations of working for a major firm. She added that she’s keeping her options open when it comes to choosing a college, prioritizing financial aid in her decision-making process.
Saunders-Blake said she plans to study physics and pursue research.
“This past summer, I was part of the
Brookhaven National Labs High School Research Program,” she said, adding that the experience solidified her interest in scientific research.
She is considering schools such as Yale, Carnegie Mellon and Rice, with a strong interest in institutions that support both science and the arts.
Both students credited Freeport High School’s programs and teachers for their academic success.
Popoola highlighted the influence of her orchestra teacher Ms. Boardman and calculus teacher Dr. Khan.
Saunders-Blake expressed gratitude toward two teachers who had a significant impact on her, Dr. Capalbo, her AP Physics and AP chemistry teacher, and AP World teacher Mr. Kenney.
Beyond the classroom, both students spoke highly of the opportunities offered by the Freeport School District. Saunders-Blake recalled how the district helped expand her horizons, stating that through the school, she was able to see five Broadway musicals in the last year alone.
Both Saunders-Blake and Popoola’s journeys are a testament to the opportunities available for those who strive for excellence.
News brief
Roosevelt men arrested for grand larceny
Two men from Roosevelt were arrested in connection to an alleged theft that took place in Baldwin.
Police said that a man, 60 left his 2015 Toyota Rav4 running outside the Kentucky Fried Chicken at 1221 Grand Ave. Shortly afterward, officers from the Freeport Police Department spotted the stolen vehicle heading west on E. Seaman Avenue near N. Columbus Avenue in Freeport. Police stopped the sport utility vehicle.
The passenger fled the scene on foot
but was apprehended nearby. The driver remained at the scene and was arrested. Joseph Felton, 32, of Clinton Avenue, was charged with grand larceny and criminal possession of stolen property. Patrick Knight, 34, of Willets Place, has been charged with criminal possession of stolen property. Both Felton and Knight pleaded not guilty and were released without bail. Felton’s next court date in March 25. Knight’s next court date is March 27.
Continued from page 1
Photos courtesy Freeport Public Schools
Lourdes Saunders-Blake, left, has been named freeport High School’s valedictorian for the class of 2025. oluwadamiloju popoola was selected as freeport High’s salutatorian.
Gillen is ceremonially sworn in to House
By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Laura Gillen celebrated joining the U.S. House of Representatives, where she represents New York’s 4th Congressional District, at a ceremonial swearing-in at the Elmont Public Library on Jan. 25.
Nearly 400 people gathered in the library’s theater to honor Gillen, who was officially sworn into office in Washington on Jan. 3. Former Rep. Steve Israel did the ceremonial honors, with the help of Gillen’s husband, Chris Gillen.
In 2024, Gillen announced she would run against Republican incumbent Anthony D’Esposito, whom she had challenged in 2022, losing narrowly. But voters chose Gillen by a margin of about 2 percentage points in last November’s election.
Congressman Gregory Meeks, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and Nassau County Legislator Seth Koslow also attended the library ceremony.
“As you are taking your oath, we could not be prouder of you,” Solages told Gillen. “This moment is really a testimony to your hard work, your dedication and the trust that you have earned from so many of us. Your vision in this district gives us hope and gives us confidence. And we know that the integrity, compassion and determination you have will resonate here, in D.C. and all over.”
Meeks recalled the uncertainty of the October election, particularly in the 4th C.D. But, he said, the Democratic caucus chose Gillen to run because of her character, her ability to connect with the community and her care for all citizens.
“You can’t be a leader if you’re not willing to serve,” Meeks said. “And we
the awesome opportunity to serve the people of this district, and gratitude to all those that made this possible.”
She thanked the elected officials who supported her campaign, expressed enthusiasm about working with them and thanked her family, who she said sacrificed so much in the months leading up to the election to help her campaign.
From 2018 to 2019, Gillen was the first Democrat to serve as Town of Hempstead supervisor in 112 years, which she attributed to her dedication to compromise and bipartisanship.
“Working across the aisle was a necessity,” she said. “It wasn’t always easy. But with a carrot and a stick, we made it possible.”
saw in Laura one that served and one that listened. She’s coming and talking to all sides, and she’s looking for ways to bring people together to better the entire United States of America.”
“So, I made it to Capitol Hill,” Gillen laughed when it was her turn to speak, to loud applause. “I have gratitude for
Among her successes during her time as supervisor, she continued, was the leadership she demonstrated in bringing down taxes, upgrading infrastructure, serving communities that had been ignored, challenging polluters and bringing vital ethical reforms to the town to ensure that public servants were accountable to the people they serve.
“Now, as your congresswoman, those lessons will continue to guide me,” she said. “I’ll always put Long Island and our nation first, and work to do what’s best for all the people in our community. It is the honor of my lifetime to be your congresswoman.”
Tim Baker/Herald
Former U.S. Rep. Steve Israel, left, and Rep. Laura Gillen’s husband, Chris Gillen, took part in her ceremonial swearing-in before a cheering crowd, three weeks after Gillen began her term in the House of Representatives.
Griffin marks victory with a celebration
New York State Assemblywoman Judy Griffin felt that hosting another swearing-in ceremony seemed “very repetitive,” having already taken her oath of office in 2019. Instead, she opted for a different approach—one that reaffirmed her commitment to serving the constituents of the 21st Assembly District.
A packed crowd gathered at the New York Elks Lodge No. 1 in Lynbrook on Sunday, Jan. 27, to celebrate her return to Albany. Among those in attendance were U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, State Senator Siela Bynoe, Assemblyman Noah Burroughs, Legislator Scott Davis, Legislator Seth Koslow, and Freeport Deputy Mayor Jorge Martinez.
Destiny House Christian Center, of Freeport, Pastor Pepper Martin led the invocation, while Pastor Joseph Browne offered the closing prayer.
Laura Mallay, president of the South Hempstead Civic Association was also in attendance.
“It has been my pleasure to dive in and begin representing AD21 again. I was eager to pick up where I left off and come back even stronger with a refreshed perspective.” Griffin said. “That’s why it was important to me to have an event like this — where we can eat, drink some coffee and appreciate one another. Together, we can tackle challenges head-on and create new opportunities for our community.”
“I’m grateful for the meaningful remarks of my good friends, Kevin Mullick, Matty Aracich and Leslie Rose. When I thought of doing this, I asked the three of them to speak, because they represent what matters most—public safety, organized labor, career opportunity and education. These are top priorities for all of us,” Griffin said.
“Throughout my time in office, I’ve appreciated their encouragement, guidance, and support,” Griffin continued. “It was helpful to have all of them championing me, always at my side, whether in office or out of office, and in the campaign to get back to office.”
Each of the keynote speakers emphasized Griffin’s dedication to public service and her commitment to supporting education, labor, and public safety. She also announced her sponsorship of a bill for peer support for police officers statewide, which was initiated by the Nassau County PBA.
“Mental health is a huge issue for everybody, but it is really a serious issue for police officers throughout Long Island, Nassau County and our state,” Griffin said. “I was really proud to take on this bill and I am honored to champion it and get it passed.”
The ceremony included a performance of the national anthem by Heather Cuevas and Sophia Bracco of Rockville Centre, along with participation from Malverne Girl Scout Troops 2237 and 2562.
Griffin took her official oath alongside her family, with Mike Caplice of New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office officiating.
Following the oath, she expressed gratitude to those who supported her
and introduced her staff, acknowledging their dedication.
“My victory wasn’t just my victory, it was a victory for all of us,” Griffin said.
“This victory reflects our shared vision for a more prosperous, safer, cleaner and affordable Long Island.”
“It isn’t easy to make a comeback, but your breadth of support, volunteerism, and endorsements helped pave the way,” she continued. “This seat isn’t my seat, I just have the honor and privilege of representing all of you.”
“I pledge to represent all constituents, embrace our diversity and work tirelessly to address the pressing issues that matter most to our district. I am committed to ensuring that Long Island remains a great place to live, work, raise a family and even retire.”
–Mohammad Rafiq
Kevin Mullick, 1st vice president of the Nassau County PBA, shares a few words on behalf of Assemblywoman Griffin during her recommitment ceremony on Jan. 27.
Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, center, surrounded by family takes her oath of office at the New York Elks Lodge in Lynbrook.
Photos courtesy office of Judy Griffin
Assemblyman Noah Burroughs, State Senator Siela Bynoe, U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray, Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis and Valley Stream Trustee Kevin Waszak.
Assemblywoman Judy Griffin and Matty Aracich, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau & Suffolk Counties.
STEPPING OUT
SCORE BIG on
Super Sunday
Go for the ‘tasty ‘win’
By Karen Bloom
It’s the biggest sports day of the year. The big game — on Feb. 9 — is great opportunity for casual winter entertaining.
Thrilling plays, must-see commercials and your pals are all quintessential elements of the perfect game-day get-together. Of course that game on the big screen is the main focus, but plenty of action takes place around the table — keeping everyone well fed is a sport in itself.
While crowd-pleasing Buffalo flavor-inspired foods and football always seem to go together, think beyond those traditional flavors for a new twist on your Super Bowl cuisine.
Baked Spinach and Chicken Dip
A tasty dip is always a winner. Try this flavorful, creamy variation — in addition to the guacamole.
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen, chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, chopped Heat oven to 375 F.
In microwave-safe medium bowl, add cream cheese and dressing. Microwave on high 30 seconds, or until cream cheese is soft. Stir to combine. Add spinach and Parmesan cheese. Mix well. Add chicken and stir to combine.
Transfer mixture to baking dish that holds at least 6 cups. Bake 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. The internal temperature should be 165 F.
Serve with crackers, bread or veggie sticks.
Note: If you like it spicy, substitute a chipotle ranch
dressing and add diced pickled jalapenos. To make ahead, prepare unbaked dip up to 3 days ahead; store covered and refrigerated. Bake prior to serving.
Pull-Apart Garlic Bread Pizza
Instead of the pizza delivery, get creative with “garlic bread” version.
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ricotta
• 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan, divided
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt
• 3/4 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup mini pepperoni
• 2 (16 ounce) cans refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury Grands)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups mozzarella, cream cheese, ricotta, cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt. Transfer mixture to a 9”-x13” baking dish then spread pizza sauce on top. Top with remaining 1 cup mozzarella and pepperoni.
Halve biscuits and roll into balls, then place on top of dip.
In a small bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, and parsley. Brush on biscuits and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan.
Bake until biscuits are golden and cheese is melty, about 45 minutes, then cover with aluminum foil and bake until biscuits are cooked
Sheng Wang
through, another 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes before serving.
Step up your chili with a barbecue twist.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 tablespoon cumin
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 26-28 ounces crushed or chopped tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 (15 oz.) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz.) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
Chili fixin’s: shredded Mexican cheese, avocado, jalapeno, sour cream, cilantro, green onions, fresh tomato, corn chips, and salsa are all great additions.
Over medium heat, saute onion and carrots in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the bell pepper and spices and saute another minute. Add the tomatoes and vegetable broth and simmer over low heat until thickened, about 20 minutes.
Stir in the corn, beans, and barbecie sauce and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add more chili powder and cumin to spice up if necessary.
Simmer another 5 minutes or until ready to eat.
Serve with your favorite chili add-ons.
With his signature laid-back style, as showcased in his Netflix special “Sweet & Juicy” produced and directed by Ali Wong, comedianactor-writer Sheng Wang brings his hilarious standup to the Paramount stage. Wang is now truly coming into his own. Two decades of performing has taken him from doing stand-up for touristy audiences in New York to a successful Netflix special, “Sweet and Juicy,” produced and directed by Ali Wong. He mines comedy from the mundane, everyday parts of life — from the meditative ritual that is shopping at Costco to how to get maximum value from health insurance. Because he’s from Texas, Wang also speaks with a slight Southern drawl, giving a relaxed quality to his delivery. Among his other credits, Wang was a featured standup on HBO’s “2 Dope Queens” special and wrote for ABC’s “Fresh Off the Boat.” Wang now resides in L.A. and in his time explores botanical gardens and new ways to snack.
Saturday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m. $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
Boyz II Men
R&B superstars Boyz II Men are always in the groove. They arrive at Tilles Center with their soulful multi-octave sound and incredible vocals, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Given the monumental success of their albums and the timeless quality of their vocals, it’s easy to see why they remain one of the most popular R&B groups of all time. Boyz II Men redefined popular R&B and continue to create timeless hits that appeal to fans across generations. Their four Grammys are just the tip of the iceberg. The trio holds the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group, with an astounding 64 million albums sold. And the reason is abundantly clear. For the past three-plus decades, Boyz II Men have given fans a rich catalog of hits filled with smooth harmonies and enduring themes. And for Boyz II Men, the hits just keep on coming.
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Barbecue Three Bean Chili
THE Your Neighborhood
Friends of the Brothers
Friends of the Brothers returns to the Landmark stage with their dynamic tribute to the Allman Brothers, Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 p.m.
Their powerful celebration of the Allman Brothers, featuring musicians closely associated with the original band, continues the brotherhood with passion, committed to the ideals of every night being special and unique. Guitarist/singer Junior Mack has fronted Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band for 12 years and starred in the acclaimed Broadway show “Lackawanna Blues.” Guitarist Andy Aledort played with Dickey Betts for 12 years, has recorded with Double Trouble and Band of Gypsys and toured with Experience Hendrix. Singer/guitarist Alan Paul is the author of “One Way Out,” the definitive, best-selling Allman Brothers Band biography based on 25 years of reporting on and interviewing the band. Their first-hand experience with the Allman Brothers Band and their deep knowledge of the repertoire and the music’s roots and heritage allows them to play with an unrivaled depth.
Breastfeeding Support Group
Mercy Hospital offers a peer-topeer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 –11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.
Walking Wednesday
Bird walk
The South Shore Audubon Society welcomes all to join its members for another in its series of bird walks, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Saturday, Feb. 8, starting at 9 a.m. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. The group will meet The group will meet in parking lot #3, off Exit 18 of the Southern State Parkway.
Friends’ perform songs from every stage of Allman Brothers career, backed by a band of inspirational, veteran players, including drummers Dave Diamond (Zen Tricksters, Bob Weir, Robert Randolph) and Lee Finkelstein (Tower of Power, Blues Brothers), bassist Craig Privett (Half Step) and keyboardist Mike Katzman (Leslie Mendelsohn, The Electrix). Rock on! $38, $33. Landmark on
Join Maryellen Cantanno for Walking Wednesdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Enjoy a 45-minute group walk at a pace set by participants, with all fitness levels welcome. Guided by the health team from Mount Sinai/ South Nassau Hospital, walkers will learn how to stay in tune with their bodies. Some weeks may include off-site meet-ups around the village, and in case of rain, the walk will be held at the Freeport Recreation Center. Call the library to find out this week’s location. Participants must sign a waiver prior to join, which can be found on the library’s website. Visit FreeportLibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274 for more information. 144 West Merrick Road.
To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. No walk if rain or snow. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon.org.
Black Whalers of Long Island
Freeport Memorial Library hosts a fascinating talk on Long Island’s Black whalers, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Discover how whaling became our nation’s first integrated industry, with one-quarter to one-third of crews consisting of people of color. This program highlights the role of AfricanAmerican mariners, their triumphs and challenges, and whaling’s connection to the Underground Railroad. Visit freeportlibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274 for more information. 144 West Merrick Road.
Family theater
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Friday, Feb. 7, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; also Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 12-13,10:15 a.m. and noon. It is 3017 in this futuristic, musical retelling of “Cinderella.” She’s now a space engineer looking to revolutionize space travel. When the Prince holds a space parade, Cinderella saves it by helping fix his spaceship. Cinderella knows it’s the perfect opportunity to show her new hyper warp speed engine. But first, she’ll have to keep her evil stepmother from throwing a wrench in her plans! $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.
Tunes with Mystic
Catch Mystic, Saturday, Feb. 1, 8-11 p.m., at Montana Brothers. Enjoy a night of great music and entertainment with this energetic performance. To reserve a table, call (516) 379-3053. Share the experience with your friends and don’t miss out on this exciting show! Event details are subject to change, so always check the official event page for the latest information. 385 S. Main St. Visit montanabrothers.com for more.
Long Island Choral Society auditions
Long Island Choral Society, under the Direction of Michael C. Haigler, holds auditions for new members for the final concert of their 96th Season. Auditions are by appointment only and will be held Monday continuing Feb. 10, Garden City Community Church. The Berlioz Requiem is a piece known for its power and beauty that offers a rare musical performance opportunity while bringing the Choral Society’s 2425 concert season to an exciting close.
If you love to sing consider auditioning to be part of this treasured Long Island tradition. Those interested can schedule an audition by calling (516) 652-6878 or via e-mail at audition.info@lics.org. 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City.
Freeport Camera Club
The Freeport Camera Club welcomes new members. It meets at Freeport Memorial Library on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, at 7 p.m. Visit FreeportLibrary.info or call (516) 379-3274 for more information. 144 W. Merrick Road.
Having an
event?
Rockville Centre Choral Society Recruitment
Like to sing? The Rockville Centre Choral Society wants you! The non-sectarian chorus sings in Lynbrook and around the South Shore. New members are welcome. The chorus sings a variety of genres: pop, folk, showtunes, light classical and standards. All voices are welcome. No experience necessary. RCCS meets Wednesdays, 7:45-9:30 p.m., and performs two concerts yearly. Rehearsals are held at St. James United Methodist Church, 11 St. James Place, Lynbrook. For more information, email rvcchorus@gmail.com or call (516) 599-5705.
Art Explorations
Converse, collaborate and create at family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The dropin program continues, Saturday, Feb. 8, noon-3 p.m. Kids and their adult partners talk about and make art together. While there, enjoy reading and play in the Reading Room, and contribute to The Lobby Project, a collaborative art installation. Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit nassaumuseum.org to register or call (516) 484-9337.
Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct followup to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/ Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.
Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. On view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Hempstead House tour
Feb. 16
Sands Point Preserve is the backdrop to explore the elegant Gold Coast home that’s the centerpiece of the estate, Sunday, Feb. 16, noon-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Visit the grand rooms inside the massive 50,000-square-foot Tudor-style mansion, the former summer residence of Gilded Age financier Howard Gould and later Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. Tours are limited in size and tend to sell out. Arrive early to purchase tickets. $10. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit SandsPointPreserveConservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
Change for one PERSON TO PERSON
I’ m frequently asked if you can change a relationship if only one person is trying. My unequivocal answer: YES! Of course, it’s not going to be as simple or easy as having two cooperative partners, but here’s an example of what can happen.
First, if you’ve been knocking yourself out trying every possible way you can think of, to get the other person to change, give it up. You’ve explained what’s bothering you. You’ve repeated yourself many times, nagging, demanding, crying, having a fit, threatening, punishing, becoming silent and resentful. Where has that gotten you? You’re just as frustrated as ever. So, save your energy and give up trying to make the other person change.
Second, decide how you will respond differently, not only to get the other person to change, but primarily to take care of your own needs. When you make a change, even a small one, you automatically change not only yourself, but also something about how your relationship works.
she was trying too hard to get Don to change. Now it was time for her to focus on making a change for herself. I suggested she stop asking him questions, stop initiating conversations, and cut out the talk time. If she felt the need to talk with someone, she could call her friends, her mom, her sister, or her kids. Since she also had expressed a need to do more things, I suggested she join a gym or take an adult-ed class. Immediately, Jacqui resisted. She believed that these changes would make things even worse because they’d increase the distance between her and her husband. I reminded her that the purpose of these changes was not to get closer to Don but to take care of herself, to meet her needs, to be more in control.
Stay Connected
Consider the following example. Jacqui entered my office feeling miserable. “My marriage is at a low point. I love my husband, but he rarely talks to me. I ask him how his day was; he’ll grunt ok, then flip on the TV. He shuts me out of his life and doesn’t want to hear about my day. I’ve asked him to come to therapy with me, but he refuses. What can I do?”
Jacqui had tried everything she knew to get her husband to talk to her. In addition to constantly asking him questions, she was always trying to initiate more conversations hoping to get him involved. Figuring that it might be easier for him to talk late at night, without the kids and other distractions, she scheduled talk time twice a week, when she and her husband would go for a walk or just sit on the deck and talk.
This scheduled talk time, however, backfired. It soon became obvious that even then Don was not communicative. As a result, Jacqui felt even more upset, abandoned and totally unloved, even though Don said he loved her but just wanted to be left alone after a hard day’s work.
The first thing I told Jacqui was that
After a while, Jacqui decided to give my suggestions a try. After getting involved in a pickleball league a ceramics class, and talking more with friends, she noticed that she was feeling happier, and less resentful even though Don, true to form, was still his non-communicative self. Then months later, Jacqui noticed that Don was less withdrawn. He admitted to feeling lonely and left out. He complained that she had gotten busy with things outside the home, and he’d like her to spend more time with him.
Jacqui was amazed that Don was now coming to her with a request to spend more time together. She was careful, however, not to drop her activities and go back to the way things used to be. Instead, she responded casually but positively saying, “You’re right. I have been out a lot. And enjoying myself too. But if you’d like to spend more time together, I’m open to that. This Thursday evening’s a good time for me. Would that work for you too?”
©2025
Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach, and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives, and overcome debilitating anxiety, procrastination, and depression. Visit her website at PsychWisdom.com.
Linda Sapadin
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE
Notice is hereby given that I shall, commencing on February 18, 2025, sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on real estate herein-after described, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party-ininterest in such real estate shall pay to the County Treasurer by February 13, 2025 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges, against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 per cent per six month’s period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 18, 2025 lien sale, Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at:
https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/County-Treasurer
Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February, 2025 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.
The liens are for arrears of School District taxes for the year 2023 - 2024 and/or County, Town, and Special District taxes for the year 2024. The following is a partial listing of the real estate located in school district number(s) 9 in the Town of Hempstead only, upon which tax liens are to be sold, with a brief description of the same by reference to the County Land and Tax Map, the name of the owner or occupant as the same appears on the 2023/2024 tentative assessment roll, and the total amount of such unpaid taxes.
IMPORTANT
THE NAMES OF OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE 2023/2024 TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLLS AND MAY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER.
SHADE WILLIAM & MARY 11,051.32
55226 03840 384-386
JONES TREVOR 6,522.27 55229 03050 305,307
KALBI SURAIYA TRUST 13,414.70
55231 00010
EL BALCON PROPERTIES CORP 464.62 55234 00480
EL BALCON PROPERTIES CORP 464.62 55234 00500
TAFURI RICHARD 10,733.75 552360101050
STREATER MAGGIE L 3,284.36
55237 01430 143-144
FIGUEROA SAMUEL 12,668.09 55239 00320 BLOUNT CORA 11,830.98 55241 00200
JONES WILLIAM & DORA 6,360.91 55242 00180
HH & H INVESTMENTS INC 9,550.01 55246 00690 69-70
RIDDICK GEORGE & MARY 7,631.50 55247 01010 101-102
SINGLETON SR WILLIE & MELMER 7,684.86 55250 02980
RAJCOOMAR PREM 5,157.96 55254 01890
MARTINEZ JUAN 302.83 55256 02370
RAMIREZ LUIS G 1,392.61 55258 01700
WEST SEAMAN LLC 10,329.56 55259 00060 219-229 NORTH MAIN STREET LLC 21,209.22 55259 01200 219-229 NORTH MAIN STREET LLC 15,292.15 55259 01210
TUCKER ANNIE 1,327.82
55260 00120
NEW DREAMS SERVICES CORP 5,637.67
55261 00370
D & M 55 CORP 12,032.94 55263 00180
PUNTIEL ROGER A CUEVAS & 331.26
55265 01220
DONHEISER DEIDRE 4,223.67
55271 00030
MARCIA DAVID 12,783.61
55272 00040
WOODLEY HAZLE 14,174.09
55275 00010 1-2
LAWRENCE PHILLIP LIFE ESTATE 3,447.71
55277 02220 222-223
ROOSEVELT PROPERTIES INC. 5,961.75
55281 01930 193-195
FURHAD ZAFAR 10,669.90
55283 00490 49-50
CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION 679.62
55323 00010 1-3,16-17 & 20
HARDWICK WILLIAM & GEORGIA 9,948.81
55353 10060
DUBOSE ABNES & ALISON CORLEY 11,513.29
55355 10580 1058-1061
MCKNIGHT SERETTA C 10,878.11 55357 01620
CHARLES HERMAN E & SCALES BERNA 1,398.82
55357 08720 872,913
AMBROSE JAMES 6,372.65 55358 09130
COLOMBUS N 259 CORP 9,434.52
55361 11080
PARISH HEATHER 4,339.85
55363 06090 609-610
ALL BUSINESS CONSULTANTS INC 751.67
55364 06730 673-674
HIGGS CORA LEE 4,998.37
55370 02300
HSBC BANK USA NA TRU 15,917.02
55370 02490
SELL JUSTIN 10,127.46
55372 02370 237-239
MAGLOIRE IVAN & MAGLOIRE FLOREN 10,040.84
55374 00280
KIGHT ANGELINA & 768.55
55375 11930 1193,1194
KIGHT ANGELINA & 6,161.95
55375 11950 1195-1197
ARRINDELL VERA DIANE 805.55
55376 12100 1210-1214
ROMERO INMER N 508.27
55381 13430
Public Notices
62113 01020
62119 02230
62119 02300
62156 06260 626-627
62156 0772UCA00390 772 CA39 UNIT 2
62156 0772UCA00390 772 CA39 UNIT 106 WALLACE MAVIS (TRUST) 5,592.29
62156 0772UCA00390 772 CA39 UNIT 306 GROVER SR ALBERT & GROVER ROSE 5,707.50
62156 0772UCA00390 772 CA39 UNIT 404 ZVITCOVICH BART & MENLINGER KAR 835.94
62158 04940 494-496 BARTHELEMY REGINALD & CHILENE 424.61
62159 04950
SVEN & ANN 748.91
62160 04160 416-418
62162 03220
62165 00140 14-17
62166 04310
Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldier’s and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts.
However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.
The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/ or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA), 12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et. seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.
The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed.
The rate of interest and penalty which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount from which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall beretained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase be of no further effect.
Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.
Furthermore, as to the bidding,
1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.
2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.
3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.
4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made, in connection with, said bid shall be forfeited. This list includes only tax liens on real estate located in Town of Hempstead. Such other tax liens on real estate are advertised as follows:
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEW YORK TREND
NEWSDAY
UNIONDALE BEACON Dist 1002
HEMPSTEAD BEACON, NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEW YORK TREND
NEWSDAY
UNIONDALE BEACON Dist 1003
EAST MEADOW HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS
NEWSDAY Dist 1004
BELLMORE HERALD
MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS
NEWSDAY Dist 1005
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS
NEWSDAY THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 1006
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
SEAFORD HERALD CITIZEN
WANTAGH HERALD CITIZEN Dist 1007
BELLMORE HERALD
MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1008
BALDWIN HERALD
BALDWIN/FREEPORT TRIBUNE
HEMPSTEAD BEACON, NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1009
BALDWIN/FREEPORT TRIBUNE
FREEPORT HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1010
BALDWIN HERALD
BALDWIN/FREEPORT TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1011
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
OCEANSIDE TRIBUNE
OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD Dist 1012
MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE Dist 1013
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
VALLEY STREAM HERALD
VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE Dist 1014
FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES
FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NASSAU HERALD (FIVE TOWNS)
NEWSDAY Dist 1015
FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES
FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE
JEWISH STAR
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1016
FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD
FRANKLIN SQUARE BULLETIN
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY Dist 1017
FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS
NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK HERALD COURIER
NEWSDAY Dist 1018
GARDEN CITY NEWS
GARDEN CITY TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS
NEWSDAY Dist 1019
EAST ROCKAWAY TRIBUNE
LYNBROOK/EAST ROCKAWAY HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
ROCKAWAY JOURNAL
Public Notices
Dist 1020
EAST ROCKAWAY TRIBUNE
LYNBROOK/EAST ROCKAWAY HERALD
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
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ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD Dist 1021
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NEWSDAY Dist 1026
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MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD
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WEST HEMPSTEAD BEACON Dist 1028
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LONG BEACH TRIBUNE
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NEWSDAY Dist 1029
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LONG ISLAND PRESS
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THE NASSAU OBSERVER Dist 3023
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LONG ISLAND PRESS
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LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU TRUMAN CAPITAL HOLDINGS, LLC, Plaintiff, v. SHERRIL BAEZ AKA SHERRIL S. BAEZ, ET AL, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on October 4, 2022, I, Scott H. Siller, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 18, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 808 South Ocean Avenue Freeport, NY 11520
SBL No.: 62-180-429 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, Count of Nassau, State of New York.
The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 614142/2019 in the amount of $769,435.71 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure
ROSLYN NEWS TIMES Dist 3306
MASSAPEQUA POST
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
THE NASSAU OBSERVER
CiTy of Glen Cove Dist 4005
GLEN COVE HERALD GAZETTE
GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
THE NORTH SHORE LEADER
CiTy of lonG BeaCh
Dist 5028
LONG BEACH HERALD
LONG BEACH TRIBUNE
NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE
NEWSDAY
Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities.
Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in braille, large print, audio tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 13715.
Dated: February 05, 2025 THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER MINEOLA, NEW YORK 1288757
sale. Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 151015
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CALCON MUTUAL MORTGAGE LLC DBA ONETRUST HOME LOANS, Plaintiff, vs. 317 SOUTH MAIN RE HOLDINGS LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 8, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 317 South Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 44 and Lot 395. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,306,469.45 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605312/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. James Leonard, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the
Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 151013
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -againstMARIE F. BAUDUY, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE OTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on June 27, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and MARIE F. BAUDUY, 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 February 18, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 346 MARYLAND AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 36-K01-38. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND
IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, 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.: 603000/2019. Scott H. Siller, 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. 151011
Search for notices online at: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE FOR FORMATION of a limited liability company (LLC). The name of the limited liability company is 239 WOODCLEFT AVENUE LLC. The date of filing of the articles of organization with the Department of State was December 17, 2024. The County in New York in which the office of the company is located is Nassau. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the company upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the
Public Notices
company served upon him or her to The LLC, P.O. Box 291, Freeport, New York 11520. The business purpose of the company is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 151017
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU
WELLS FARGO USA HOLDINGS, INC., Plaintiff, v. ERNESTINA DELVALLE, AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA A. ROLLINS A/K/A BARBARA ROLLINS, ET AL, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on April 14, 2023, I, Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 25, 2025 at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr., Mineola, NY 11501, at 02:00 PM the premises described as follows: 20 Lillian Avenue Freeport, NY 11520
SBL #: 55-447-103
ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 602944/2018 in the amount of $348,050.12 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.
Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604
Tel.: 855-227-5072 151179
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered April 27, 2017, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 27, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 296 Pine Street, Freeport, NY 11520. Sec 54 Block 84
Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $466,592.84 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 015029/2010. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Certified funds only, made payable to Lisa Goodwin, Esq., as Referee.
Lisa Goodwin, Esq., Referee File # NSRNY006 F/K/A QNSRN601 151181
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 25, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 85 EAST PENNYWOOD AVENUE, ROOSEVELT, NY 11575; and the following tax map identification: 0055 - 00483-00 - 00231, 00232 and 00233. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ROOSEVELT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 006870/2016. Ronald J. Ferraro, 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. 151185
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633. Rita Solomon, Esq., Referee File # 21-03756NY 151177
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
Albany, New York
Omid Zareh, Esq., Referee COOPER ERVING & SAVAGE, LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 20 Corporate Woods Blvd., Ste. 501 Albany, New York 12211 (518) 449-3900 151053
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $304,500.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of Nassau on February 06, 2006 in Liber M30064, Page 184 covering premises known as 31 East Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
NASSAU COUNTY
BAYVIEW LOAN
SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against ANDREA FAGAN, et al
Defendant(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff(s)
Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CBASS MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-CB5, -againstISAIAS FLORES, 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 October 28, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CBASS MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-CB5 is the Plaintiff and ISAIAS FLORES, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-CW1, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff against RONY LUNDY, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered March 10, 2020, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 25, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 365 Wallace Street, Freeport, NY 11520. Sec 55 Block 397 Lot 232 and 233. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $484,478.30 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 000740/2016.
SUPREME COURT STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU CITIZENS BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstCARLOS BERRIOS; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; VILLAGE OF LYNBROOK, NASSAU COUNTY, by and through the Nassau County Traffic and Parking Violations Agency; JOSE ARAUJO; STACEY ARAUJO; and MARITZA ARAUJO, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE Index No. 605841/2018 MORTGAGED PROPERTY: 40 East Avenue, Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, State of New York 11520 COUNTY: NASSAU SBL #: 62-77-21 Mortgage Servicer: Citizens Bank, N.A. d/b/a Citizens One Home Loans Mortgage Service Telephone No.: 800-234-6002
In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly made on September 26, 2024, and entered in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on October 18, 2024, I, the undersigned, the referee, will now sell at public auction, at the North Side steps of the Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York on February 24, 2025 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon of that date, the premises directed by said judgment to be sold which are commonly known as 40 East Avenue, Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York, Tax Map No.: 62-77-21. A complete legal description can be obtained upon request from plaintiff’s attorney. Judgment amount$396,682.44 plus interest, costs and expenses.
Dated: January 23, 2025
Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for GSAA Home Equity Trust 2006-8 AssetBacked Certificates Series 2006-8, Plaintiff, -againstElizabeth Angilette, unknown heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devises, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming, under, by or through said defendant, who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, Vanessa Lewis, as Heir to the Estate of Elizabeth Angilette, Slomins Inc., People of the State of New York, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, United States of America, Defendants.
Index No.: 604190/2024
Filed: January 9, 2025
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated.
TO THE ABOVE NAMED
DEFENDANT(S): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
Dated: Bay Shore, New York
January 9, 2025 Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon, LLP
/s/BY: Karen Sheehan Attorneys for Plaintiff 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100
Our File No.: 01-099158F00 151059
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff AGAINST PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF KATHERINE BRYANT WHO WAS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF ELMER BRYANT, DAUD HAZIZ RAMADHAN FKA ELMER BRYANT AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF KATHERINE BRYANT WHO WAS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF ELMER BRYANT, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 31, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau
County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 25, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 37 Decatur Street, Roosevelt, NY 11575. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Roosevelt, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 321, Lot 150 & 151. Approximate amount of judgment $294,590.37 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008750/2013. Adrienne Flipse Hausch, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-003144 83529 151063
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AND AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING, LLC, -againstCORNELL BOZIER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY CURL, 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 25, 2023, wherein REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING, LLC is the Plaintiff and CORNELL BOZIER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY CURL, 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 March 3, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 38 BOOTH STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550; and the following tax map identification: 36-3-44 & 45. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEMPSTEAD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 600156/2018. Mary Ellen Divone, 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. 151323
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR PARK PLACE SECURITIES, INC. ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-WHQ2, -againstROBERTO CONTRERAS, 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 June 27, 2023, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR PARK PLACE SECURITIES, INC. ASSETBACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-WHQ2 is the Plaintiff and ROBERTO CONTRERAS, 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 March 5, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 15 WALLACE STREET, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 55-272-3.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601223/2019. Peter Kramer, Esq. - Referee. The Referee may be reached by phone at 516-510-4020. 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. 151325
To place a notice here call 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
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -againstNIMBOKO B. MILLER, 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 June 11, 2018, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and NIMBOKO B. MILLER, 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 March 3, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 352 WESTSIDE AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 62-66-299. ALL THAT PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 006688/2015. Peter Levy, 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. 151321
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP FKA COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP, Plaintiff -against- FEDIE R. REDD, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated January 25, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 4, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and
described as follows: BEGINNING at the corner formed by the intersection of the Southerly side of Cedar St. with the Easterly side of Westside Avenue; being a plot 100 feet by 50 feet by 100 feet by 50 feet. Section: 62 Block: 149 Lot: 452
Said premises known as 173 CEDAR STREET, FREEPORT, NY 11520
Approximate amount of lien $549,313.36 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 007276/2013.
JEFFREY TOBACK, ESQ., Referee
David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030
File# 8150.324 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 151206
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LEGAL NOTICE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING - February 20, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing with the Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled for Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York on the appeals and applications of cases as they appear on the calendar; residential applications that do not extend their prior nonconforming status may be called first; public comment invited. It is anticipated that the Board will adjourn the legislative session and enter into Executive Session until 6:30 P.M. INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions. All applications are nonconforming with zoning regulations herein specified for the districts in which they are located. Application #2024-9147 Woodcleft Avenue, Marine CommerceSection 62/ Block 177/ Lot 534 - Aaron KadoshPropose 1-story north side addition (224 sq. ft.), 1-story south side addition (169 sq. ft.), roof over rear and side deck totaling (424 sq. ft.), and new pergola (240 sq. ft.).
2018, and Amended January 9, 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 March 13, 2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 62 Hope Drive, Plainview, NY 11803. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Plainview, in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 47 Block 16 Lot 8. Approximate amount of judgment $534,412.91 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 008032/2016. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Tony D’Anzica, 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: January 24, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 151427
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LEGAL NOTICE
Freeport man sentenced to jail for dogfighting crimes
A Freeport man has been sentenced to six months in jail and five years’ probation for breeding and selling pit bulls intended for use in dogfighting.
Lonnie Poindexter, 56, pleaded guilty on September 18, 2024, before Judge David Sullivan to one count of Prohibition of Animal Fighting.
Poindexter was sentenced today to six months of imprisonment and five years of probation.
As part of his probation, he is prohibited from owning any animals, a condition that will be enforced through periodic checks by probation officers over the next five years.
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE PARK PLACE SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-WCW2, Pltf. vs. ESCOLASTICA CRUZ A/K/A ESCOLATICA CRUZ, et al, Defts. Index #000435/2018. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated Jan. 15, 2020 and order substituting the referee entered Sept 7, 2022, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 4, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., prem. k/a 61 East Avenue, Freeport, NY a/k/a Section 62, Block 76, Lot 4. Approx. amt. of judgment is $807,696.06 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. MARK S. RICCIARDI, Referee. MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., Ste. 224, Syosset, NY. #102082 151273
Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6A, §210-40 Required yards. Application #2024-23691 S. Bayview Avenue, Residence A - Section 62/ Block 187/ Lot 13 - David Riemer - Construct new (4,829.71 SF) 3-story house with attached garage, 2 front balconies (42.6 SF each), 2 rear decks (188.94 SF & 189.09 SF) and maintain hot tub. Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6A, §210-39A Building height; sky exposure plane, §210-40 Lot area; street frontage; lot width, §210-41 Lot coverage; floor area ratio, §210-43A (1&2), C (2) required yards. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 151448
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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST
Alvin Gerstein a/k/a Alvin F. Gerstein; Arlene Gerstein a/k/a Arlene E. Gerstein; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 20,
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR NOMURAR ASSET ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, Plaintiff AGAINST ALAN RICHARTZ, JR, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 31, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 11, 2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 310 Atlantic Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62 Block 039 Lot 109. Approximate amount of judgment $371,986.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #602538/2023. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive
“This defendant bred dogs for the purpose of using them or selling them into the unconscionably cruel and illegal world of dogfighting. Exploiting innocent animals is something that my prosecutors profoundly refuse to tolerate,” said DA Donnelly. “Dogfighting is often linked to other dangerous and illegal conduct, including narcotics and weapons activity and is a threat to our communities. I continue to urge anyone in Nassau County who may be aware of dogfighting activity to contact my Animal Crimes Unit at 516-571-7755 and report it.”
The investigation into Poindexter began in 2020 when authorities discov -
Williamsville, NY 14221
22-003981 83600 151394
NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
COURT
COUNTY SANTANDER BANK, N.A., Plaintiff against SALVATORE SANTAMARIA, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly announced the sentencing of Freeport man Lonnie Poindexter, who pled guilty to breeding dogs to use them for illegal dogfighting.
ered he was posting videos, photos, and dog pedigree information online, advertising pit bulls for sale.
The defendant used coded language and terminology familiar to the dogfighting community to promote the dogs.
After an extensive investigation, Poindexter was arrested in October 2021 at his Freeport home by members of the Nassau County Police Department.
A search warrant led to the recovery of six pit bulls used for breeding, a rape stand, a treadmill, detailed pedigree documents, and heavy chains—items all consistent with the practice of dogfighting. Further investigation confirmed that Poindexter was breeding the dogs for that very purpose.
Poindexter was indicted by a Nassau County grand jury on June 24, 2022.
The case was prosecuted by Senior Investigative Counsel Heather Kalachman and Assistant District Attorney Kathleen Hurley of the Animal Crimes Unit, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Jeremy Glicksman of the Organized Crime and Rackets Bureau, and Executive Assistant District Attorney for the Investigations Division Rick Whelan. Poindexter is represented by Donald Rollock.
–Mohammad
Public Notices Public Notices
of Foreclosure and Sale entered May 31, 2018, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 31 Buchanan Street, Freeport, NY 11520. Sec 54 Block 334 Lot 19, 20 & 21. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and
in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $675,326.70 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 001428/2009. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules.
The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee File # YDHJN001 151523
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Do we have beams we don’t need?
Q. We were meeting with our contractor during our home reconstruction, literally tearing the entire house apart and adding a floor. He introduced his “framer,” who was polite but left us with concern. He said the beams going across our house were “overkill.” The beams support a new balcony and high ceilings, so our foyer and living room are two stories tall, very dramatic, and we love what our architect did. We started wondering if we had overpaid for beams that maybe we didn’t need, since the framer said the structure was much more than necessary. Should we ask our architect for an explanation, or just let it go? Construction isn’t cheap, and we understand that, but there is concern about spending more than needed. What do you suggest?
A. Let it go. What you’re experiencing is common and frustrating to hear, because there are so many aspects to designing a building, and I wonder if your framer understands. For example, beams are designed for much more than carrying material loads. Roof beams must carry what we call “dead” loads as well as “live” loads, such as wind and heavy snow.
I have asked framers who have made these statements if they were aware of the several different code-required load capacities a beam is subjected to, to which they either answer, honestly, that they aren’t sure, or make remarks like, “Well, that’s your job,” or “I just know this is overkill.” They just know. And they probably don’t, or they could explain.
Wind impacts buildings in many ways, and is considered a load with multiple effects, requiring calculations, for your safety, to keep the walls and roof from tearing away, or lifting off the house, or crushing down on you in a push-and-pull manner that wind naturally has. Then there are connectors to attach everything. These braces, stirrups and saddles keep structure from pulling apart, but each type comes with engineered calculations.
We often start selecting beams, rafters and joist sizes based on stringent energy codes, which dictate that you must have certain thicknesses of insulation, to prevent heat from escaping quickly or causing your air conditioning to work constantly from heat migrating inward. If you choose the more expensive compact foam insulation, which has greater resistance per inch to heat gain and loss, then we can sometimes reduce the size of some structure. But if you choose less costly fiberglass insulation, which looks like cotton candy, the structure must be deeper, taller, larger — however you can describe it — to accommodate the required insulation thickness.
Larger rafters and joists weigh more, and their angled end cuts require deeper-sized beams to join them. So now you know part of why those beams probably aren’t “overkill,” and why your framer should do a different kind of “home-work” before professing his knowledge. A building is a large jigsaw puzzle of custom parts, and “under-kill” can lead to disaster. Will the framer be there to take responsibility? 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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opinions
An inauguration that was decidedly different
Last month I traveled to Washington, joining many Nassau County Republicans, including County Executive Bruce Blakeman and GOP Chairman Joe Cairo, to celebrate the inauguration of Donald Trump as our 47th president. Beginning with Richard Nixon’s second inaugural in 1972, I had attended 10 previous ones, seven of them during my 28 years in Congress.
This year’s event was certainly memorable, and not just because the tundra-like weather forced the ceremony indoors. From the moment I arrived at the historic Mayflower Hotel, where many of New York’s elected officials and party leaders were staying, I was struck by the extraordinary level of excitement, enthusiasm and hope. This was significantly different from Trump’s first inaugural in 2017, when, though he had many strong supporters, there was an air of uncertainty about whether his administration would hit the ground running. There had been multiple leaks from the Trump camp and a number of his top cabinet officials, like Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, had no previous
connection to Trump or any political or governmental experience.
This time around, Trump was striding into Washington as a conquering hero who had made the greatest political comeback of any president in history. And he was as prepared for action as any of his predecessors. There was no doubt he would hit the ground running.
The cold and the intense security made getting around Washington more difficult than I remember for any previous inauguration. Cairo and I were in a car for almost two hours, encountering constant roadblocks and rerouting as we tried to get to a Newsmax event at the relatively nearby Andrew Mellon Auditorium, before we gave up and returned to the Mayflower, where New York was staging its Inaugural Party, featuring Elise Stefanik, the upstate congresswoman and the nominee for ambassador to the United Nations.
old friends and prominent officials gathered to reminisce and share the latest news and rumors.
Trump’s inaugural address was truly unique. No president has ever been so direct or detailed, as he laid out the specifics of his agenda and the myriad executive orders he would be issuing on everything from border security to energy production. He was unsparing in his criticism of what he saw as the terrible failings of the Biden administration — all of this as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris sat just several feet away.
iwas struck by the extraordinary excitement, enthusiasm and hope.
But none of this dampened the spirit of hope and optimism. The Mayflower event, the day before the inauguration, drew an overflow crowd of hundreds, who heard powerful speeches from EPA nominee Lee Zeldin, Congressman Mike Lawler and Blakeman. And there was always action in the hotel lobby, as
Ordinarily I would consider it wrong to disrespect a former president at an inaugural ceremony, but these are not ordinary times. Trump strongly believes that the Biden administration and its allies abused the legal system in attempts to destroy Trump with criminal prosecutions and bankrupt him and his family. Ironically, Trump didn’t know that just moments before his term expired, Biden had pardoned five members of his family.
The main impact of Trump’s address was that he would do all he could to change the direction of the country. The days of woke progressivism were over.
After the ceremonies, the president went to the Capitol One Arena for an
indoor version of the inaugural parade. I was particularly proud that one of the bands taking part was the NYPD Pipes & Drums. By some mistake, the band hadn’t been included in the original lineup, but when its leaders came to me just weeks before the inauguration, I was able to reach out to the Trump team and get it done.
The almost frenetic energy of the inauguration continued in the days that followed, as Trump signed one executive order after another. (While I strongly agreed with most of them, I believe it was wrong to issue blanket pardons to those who carried out violence against police officers and other law enforcement on Jan. 6, 2021. Despite all the injustice carried out by the Justice Department against Trump, and the department’s failure to prosecute violent rioters on the left, these pardons cannot be defended.)
Trump has promised America a new Golden Age — an age in which American economic, diplomatic and military power will be respected around the world. An America where we will no longer be subject to government censorship and strangling bureaucratic regulations or be defined by race, religion or sexual preference. If he succeeds, it will indeed be an American Golden Age!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Cleaning the 2024 slate is comforting
The beginning of a new year is a chance to clean the slate from 2024 and to look ahead to more positive things. If you have your health, when you aren’t at work, it’s a chance to enjoy taking long walks, squeezing in a vacation and maybe finding a good book to read. But to erase the 2024 board clean, it’s important to get some things off my chest. One of my pet peeves is our national airline system. These days it costs a lot of money to travel almost anywhere in the United States, and we’re often treated like cattle, unless you fly first class. Boarding the plane can be demeaning, and the seats are uncomfortable. For a round-trip costing $800, asking for an extra bag of pretzels shouldn’t be a big deal, but I’ve had a
few turn-downs on flights to Florida.
My wife has designated me the family shopper, and I don’t mind the periodic trips to the supermarket. My parents had a grocery store, so I know how to move quickly from aisle to aisle. I’m sure many readers have heard the term “shrinkflation,” which is rampant in supermarkets. Almost every item weighs less and costs more. My favorite boxes of cereal not only weigh half as much, but their contents don’t taste anything like they did when I was a child. Especially Kix and Rice Krispies.
Tgains are anything but.
o get a fresh start in the new year, it’s important to get some things off my chest.
Department store shopping was once an adventure. You could go from floor to floor, and it would take hours to go from the ground floor to the top. The shelves were once stacked with many interesting items, and the quality of the merchandise was pretty good. These days, though, there seem to be many less items for sale, and the so-called bar-
I’ve been a loyal Yankees fan for as long as I can remember. I try to get to at least two or three games a season, but the ticket prices can be staggering. I truly feel bad for a family with young kids who make an annual trip to the ballpark. The hot dogs, pizza and ice cream are costly, and if the kids want a few souvenirs, the outing can costs hundreds of dollars. Baseball owners need the revenues to pay high-priced players, but not everyone can afford to be a talent sponsor.
Going to a movie isn’t what it used to be, either. I recall childhood trips to theaters with my parents that were affordable and frequent. Once upon a time, theatergoers would even get some type of premium for buying a ticket. A movie ticket today can cost over $20, and if you and your companion want popcorn, candy or soda, the price of this night out is pretty high.
There are more things that bug me. I look at Facebook from time to time because it’s nice to see people celebrating happy occasions, but there is no shortage of party-poopers who insist on posting political barbs that are of no interest to most viewers. We’ve just survived a period of intense political bickering, and I’m not anxious to see a Facebook testimonial to a politician who my crazy uncle worships.
I have bad feelings about a lot of people both in and out of the political arena, but we’ll save that for another time. There are things going on right now that I could talk about for hours. I’ve chosen the things that upset all of my friends and neighbors as well, with little or no dissent. I’m sure I skipped over some of your annoyances, but I have a whole year to write about them.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
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Robert Richner
Edith Richner Publishers, 1964-1987 ■ STUaRT RichneR Publisher ■
GDialing up a possible cellphone plan
ov. Kathy Hochul’s newly unveiled plan to restrict smartphone use in schools across New York state has sparked robust discussion among educators, parents and policymakers.
With the goal of creating distractionfree learning environments, the proposal would direct schools to limit cellphone use throughout the school day while providing practical solutions for communication and storage. The initiative has notable advantages as well as challenges, warranting careful consideration as it moves forward and is considered by the State Legislature.
The primary argument in favor of Hochul’s plan is the undeniable distraction that the phones pose to students. Research consistently shows that smartphones can impede focus, reduce academic performance and foster excessive screen time. By eliminating unsanctioned use of the devices, students would be expected to engage more deeply with their lessons and their peers, improving their classroom experience, their grades and their interpersonal skills.
Hochul’s thinking also aligns with growing concerns about youth mental health. Excessive smartphone use, particularly on social media, has been linked to anxiety, depression and reduced self-esteem among adolescents. The governor’s effort builds on her earlier success in regulating addictive social media feeds for minors, emphasizing the state’s commitment to protecting the mental well-being of its youth.
The proposal also addresses safety concerns, a priority highlighted by law
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Randi shares the joy of books
To the Editor:
enforcement experts. Distracted students are more vulnerable to accidents and less likely to be aware of their surroundings during emergencies. A focus on reducing these distractions could enhance student safety.
Allocating $13.5 million for smartphone storage solutions — such as pouches or cubbies — would ensure that schools, regardless of budget constraints, have access to the resources needed to implement the plan.
Despite its merits, however, the proposal raises several concerns. Chief among them is the potential challenge of enforcing the restrictions uniformly across diverse school settings. Administrators and teachers may find it difficult to monitor compliance, especially in larger schools with limited staff.
The plan also risks alienating students and parents who view cellphones as essential tools for communication and personal safety. While the initiative includes provisions for parents to contact their children during the school day, it may not fully address the anxieties of those who rely on immediate connectivity, particularly in emergencies.
Another issue is the reliance on alternative devices, such as school-issued tablets and laptops, for instruction. While these tools are permitted under the plan, they, too, can be distractions if not properly managed. Critics of Hochul’s plan argue that simply replacing smartphones with other internet-enabled devices may not fully eliminate the problem of divided attention in classrooms.
Exemptions outlined in the proposal — such as those for medical needs or individualized education programs —
Re Randi Kreiss’s recent column, “When was the last time you read a book?”: As she stated, one of the great joys in life is having a wonderful book to read. I never go anywhere without one. I taught English on the junior and high school levels on Long Island for 39 years, and I loved it. I would do it all over again.
The exciting discussions I had with my students triggered by great literature were priceless. I loved teaching “Of Mice and Men”; “The Picture of Dorian Gray”; “Romeo and Juliet”; “The Great Gatsby”; my nominee for the greatest novel of all, “To Kill a Mockingbird”; and many others.
Randi’s statement that in some of the country’s “elite” colleges, many students are neither willing nor able to read the books they are assigned is scary. What does that bode for our future leaders? And presently we have one in the White House who I’ll bet has never read a complete book, including our Constitution.
highlight the necessity of accommodating diverse student populations. Ensuring that these exemptions are applied fairly and without reinforcing stigmas, however, could add complexity to the plan’s implementation.
A strength of the proposal is its flexibility, allowing schools to design their own storage and implementation strategies. This autonomy acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all approach may not work across New York’s varied educational landscapes. However, the success of this flexibility hinges on clear guidelines and adequate support from the state to help schools navigate potential challenges.
The plan’s focus on equity, including ensuring that students without internetenabled devices are not disadvantaged, demonstrates an awareness of the broader implications of digital access. This consideration is crucial in preventing unintended disparities.
Hochul’s proposal is a bold step toward addressing the challenges of the digital age in education. While its goals are commendable —enhancing focus, promoting mental health and improving safety — it must carefully navigate the concerns of enforcement, equity and parental confidence.
As the state prepares to roll out the measure by the 2025-26 school year, ongoing collaboration with educators, parents and students will be essential to refine it, and ensure its effectiveness. With a proper balance of structure and flexibility, the initiative has the potential to foster a more focused, healthier and distraction-free learning environment for New York’s students.
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An inauguration that was decidedly different
Last month I traveled to Washington, joining many Nassau County Republicans, including County Executive Bruce Blakeman and GOP Chairman Joe Cairo, to celebrate the inauguration of Donald Trump as our 47th president. Beginning with Richard Nixon’s second inaugural in 1972, I had attended 10 previous ones, seven of them during my 28 years in Congress.
This year’s event was certainly memorable, and not just because the tundra-like weather forced the ceremony indoors. From the moment I arrived at the historic Mayflower Hotel, where many of New York’s elected officials and party leaders were staying, I was struck by the extraordinary level of excitement, enthusiasm and hope. This was significantly different from Trump’s first inaugural in 2017, when, though he had many strong supporters, there was an air of uncertainty about whether his administration would hit the ground running. There had been multiple leaks from the Trump camp and a number of his top cabinet officials, like Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, had no previous
connection to Trump or any political or governmental experience.
This time around, Trump was striding into Washington as a conquering hero who had made the greatest political comeback of any president in history. And he was as prepared for action as any of his predecessors. There was no doubt he would hit the ground running.
The cold and the intense security made getting around Washington more difficult than I remember for any previous inauguration. Cairo and I were in a car for almost two hours, encountering constant roadblocks and rerouting as we tried to get to a Newsmax event at the relatively nearby Andrew Mellon Auditorium, before we gave up and returned to the Mayflower, where New York was staging its Inaugural Party, featuring Elise Stefanik, the upstate congresswoman and the nominee for ambassador to the United Nations.
old friends and prominent officials gathered to reminisce and share the latest news and rumors.
Trump’s inaugural address was truly unique. No president has ever been so direct or detailed, as he laid out the specifics of his agenda and the myriad executive orders he would be issuing on everything from border security to energy production. He was unsparing in his criticism of what he saw as the terrible failings of the Biden administration — all of this as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris sat just several feet away.
iwas struck by the extraordinary excitement, enthusiasm and hope.
But none of this dampened the spirit of hope and optimism. The Mayflower event, the day before the inauguration, drew an overflow crowd of hundreds, who heard powerful speeches from EPA nominee Lee Zeldin, Congressman Mike Lawler and Blakeman. And there was always action in the hotel lobby, as
Ordinarily I would consider it wrong to disrespect a former president at an inaugural ceremony, but these are not ordinary times. Trump strongly believes that the Biden administration and its allies abused the legal system in attempts to destroy Trump with criminal prosecutions and bankrupt him and his family. Ironically, Trump didn’t know that just moments before his term expired, Biden had pardoned five members of his family.
The main impact of Trump’s address was that he would do all he could to change the direction of the country. The days of woke progressivism were over.
After the ceremonies, the president went to the Capitol One Arena for an
indoor version of the inaugural parade. I was particularly proud that one of the bands taking part was the NYPD Pipes & Drums. By some mistake, the band hadn’t been included in the original lineup, but when its leaders came to me just weeks before the inauguration, I was able to reach out to the Trump team and get it done.
The almost frenetic energy of the inauguration continued in the days that followed, as Trump signed one executive order after another. (While I strongly agreed with most of them, I believe it was wrong to issue blanket pardons to those who carried out violence against police officers and other law enforcement on Jan. 6, 2021. Despite all the injustice carried out by the Justice Department against Trump, and the department’s failure to prosecute violent rioters on the left, these pardons cannot be defended.)
Trump has promised America a new Golden Age — an age in which American economic, diplomatic and military power will be respected around the world. An America where we will no longer be subject to government censorship and strangling bureaucratic regulations or be defined by race, religion or sexual preference. If he succeeds, it will indeed be an American Golden Age!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Cleaning the 2024 slate is comforting
The beginning of a new year is a chance to clean the slate from 2024 and to look ahead to more positive things. If you have your health, when you aren’t at work, it’s a chance to enjoy taking long walks, squeezing in a vacation and maybe finding a good book to read. But to erase the 2024 board clean, it’s important to get some things off my chest. One of my pet peeves is our national airline system. These days it costs a lot of money to travel almost anywhere in the United States, and we’re often treated like cattle, unless you fly first class. Boarding the plane can be demeaning, and the seats are uncomfortable. For a round-trip costing $800, asking for an extra bag of pretzels shouldn’t be a big deal, but I’ve had a
few turn-downs on flights to Florida.
My wife has designated me the family shopper, and I don’t mind the periodic trips to the supermarket. My parents had a grocery store, so I know how to move quickly from aisle to aisle. I’m sure many readers have heard the term “shrinkflation,” which is rampant in supermarkets. Almost every item weighs less and costs more. My favorite boxes of cereal not only weigh half as much, but their contents don’t taste anything like they did when I was a child. Especially Kix and Rice Krispies.
Tgains are anything but.
o get a fresh start in the new year, it’s important to get some things off my chest.
Department store shopping was once an adventure. You could go from floor to floor, and it would take hours to go from the ground floor to the top. The shelves were once stacked with many interesting items, and the quality of the merchandise was pretty good. These days, though, there seem to be many less items for sale, and the so-called bar-
I’ve been a loyal Yankees fan for as long as I can remember. I try to get to at least two or three games a season, but the ticket prices can be staggering. I truly feel bad for a family with young kids who make an annual trip to the ballpark. The hot dogs, pizza and ice cream are costly, and if the kids want a few souvenirs, the outing can costs hundreds of dollars. Baseball owners need the revenues to pay high-priced players, but not everyone can afford to be a talent sponsor.
Going to a movie isn’t what it used to be, either. I recall childhood trips to theaters with my parents that were affordable and frequent. Once upon a time, theatergoers would even get some type of premium for buying a ticket. A movie ticket today can cost over $20, and if you and your companion want popcorn, candy or soda, the price of this night out is pretty high.
There are more things that bug me. I look at Facebook from time to time because it’s nice to see people celebrating happy occasions, but there is no shortage of party-poopers who insist on posting political barbs that are of no interest to most viewers. We’ve just survived a period of intense political bickering, and I’m not anxious to see a Facebook testimonial to a politician who my crazy uncle worships.
I have bad feelings about a lot of people both in and out of the political arena, but we’ll save that for another time. There are things going on right now that I could talk about for hours. I’ve chosen the things that upset all of my friends and neighbors as well, with little or no dissent. I’m sure I skipped over some of your annoyances, but I have a whole year to write about them.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
JERRY KREMER
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