Mayor Robert Kennedy, who was recently elected to an historic fourth consecutive four-year term as mayor of the Village of Freeport, is sworn in by New York State First Deputy Administrative Judge Norman St. George, left, as his wife, Mary Kennedy looked on. Q&A on Page 3.
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
The Freeport school district has adopted a $250.9 million budget for the 2025-26 school year, preserving all existing programs, adding instructional staff and investing in capital improvements — without increasing the tax levy.
The tax levy is the total amount the school district needs to collect from local taxpayers after accounting for all other sources of revenue.
Voters in the district will head to the polls on May 20, when they will decide whether to approve or reject the total $250,942,714 spending plan.
For the 10th time in 11 years, the district will see a zero percent increase in the tax levy, which
would stand at $87.1 million, or $3.5 million below the state’s allowable limit.
“This year’s ballots will have the proposed budget for the 2025-2026 spending plan at a quarter of a billion dollars,” Ben Roberts, assistant superintendent for personnel and human resources, said during the district’s April 9 budget meeting, held at Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School.
Shuron Jackson, vice president of the school board, wholeheartedly endorsed the spending plan.
“Everything that we do and propose for next year is really to support all of our wonderful students and the programs and the educational opportunities that we provide here at Freeport,”
By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
Long Island native and bestselling author Jane L. Rosen is returning to her roots with a visit to the Freeport Memorial Library on Friday, where she will talk about her novel “On Fire Island” and meet readers as part of the 2025 Long Island Reads program.
I
The event will begin at 1 p.m., and is one of a series of appearances Rosen is making across Long Island, celebrating the selection of “On Fire Island” by Long Island Reads, a collaborative project among Nassau and Suffolk public libraries that each year select a single title to promote regional reading and discussion.
love talking to readers. I adore hearing what the books did for them, and the journey.
While she can only take part in some of the talks on Zoom, she said she was happy to accept the Freeport’s library’s invitation.
Maryellen Cantanno, the library’s head of community services and adult programming, said the facility is thrilled to host Rosen.
“‘On Fire Island’ … is a great fictional read,” Cantanno said, adding, “She comes highly recommended by a lot of other number one bestselling authors, like Helen Hildebrand. She loves her books, so it will be a fun event, and a very casual event, too.”
JANe RoseN Author
Rosen said that since the book was chosen, libraries throughout the region have hosted discussions focusing on it.
Cantanno noted that local support is helping to enhance the event. She arranged for refreshments, including cookies, muffins and other treats, with donations from Gala Foods, on Merrick Road, and Pantano’s Doz Bagels, on Atlantic Avenue.
Rosen, who grew up in Baldwin and began her writing career as a high school reporter for the Baldwin Citizen, is no stranger to the South Shore. She recently moved to the Hudson Valley after 37 years in New
Continued on page 11
He became an ordained Jesuit priest at 33, and was the first pope from outside Europe in centuries, yet Pope Francis was known for his human touch. He died on Easter Monday. He was born on Dec. 17, 1936.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, just before his 17th birthday, was hurrying to meet friends when something directed him to go into the Basilica of St. Joseph in Buenos Aires that moved him to become a priest.
Jesuits are known for highlighting humility, aiding the poor and having respect for indigenous people.
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pope Francis. He was the conscience of the world and a moral compass for us all,” Nassau County Legislature Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé, whose district encompasses parts of Freeport and who is a practitioner of the Catholic faith, said. “Pope Francis made it a point to embrace all in accordance with the gospel teachings of Jesus, and the manner in which he ministered directly to the most marginalized groups in our society embodied Catholic values in a way that have shaped our world for the better. Pope Francis will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.”
Bishop John Barres who leads the Archdiocese of Rockville Centre noted those works in his statement.
“As we mourn the death of Pope Francis on this Easter Octave Monday and the gift of his contemplative global evangelization grounded in Matthew 25 and the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, we give thanks to Father, Son and Holy Spirit for his unique graces and charisms and the compelling way during his Pontificate that he has been a Light of Jesus Christ and the mission of mercy of the Catholic Church to the world,” he said.
“In Evangelii Gaudium (2013), Pope Francis speaks about the original freshness of the Gospel: “Jesus can also break through the dull categories with which we would enclose him and he constantly amazes us by his divine creativity. Whenever we make the effort to return to the source and to recover the original freshness of the Gospel, new avenues arise, new paths of creativity open up, with different forms of expression, more eloquent signs and words with new meaning for today’s world. Every form of authentic evangelization is always ‘new.’”
Pope Francis was known for his charm and humility, and his everyman style.
“As a family of faith, we join the Church in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a humble servant, who led with compassion and simplicity,” St. Raphael Parish in East Meadow posted on Facebook. “May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”
“It is with a deep sense of sorrow that we join the Universal Church and the whole world in mourning the death of our Supreme Pontiff, Pope Francis, who left this world to his Father this morning,” Father Eugene Umeor of Malverne’s Our Lady of Lourdes Church said in Monday’s morning prayer that are posted online. “I hope in the resurrection we continue to live out the values he taught us, universal love, his care for poor, the vulnerable, and all those in special needs.”
As pontiff, Francis was more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community than previous popes ands that drew the ire of the more conservative members of the church.
“Today the Chair is Empty. Easter Sunday an empty tomb is found and we know Jesus our hope has risen,” said Mark Daley, former grand knight for Valley Stream Knights of Columbus. “Today we pray for our Pope who has Risen to be with God Our Father.”
Phyllis Zagano Ph.D., is senior research associatein-residence in the Department of Religion at Hofstra University. She is one of the world’s foremost experts on the question of women deacons. In 2016 she was appointed to serve on Pope Francis’ first commission to look at this issue. Zagano was the only commissioner to travel from the Western Hemisphere.
“Pope Francis will be remembered as the pope who opened the door to more people, especially lay people, especially women, to participate in conversations about how the Church might best move forward,” she said.
Nassau County Legislature Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé delivered a large donation of essential supplies to Bethany House this month capping off a successful Women’s History Month supply drive led by her office throughout March.
The initiative, organized in partnership with the Freeport Memorial Library, Baldwin Public Library, and Roosevelt Public Library, gathered much-needed items such as toilet paper, paper towels, 13-gallon garbage bags, cases of bottled water, and gift cards for rideshare services and grocery stores.
Bethany House, which operates shelters in Roosevelt and Baldwin, serves women and mothers with children experiencing homelessness. Their mission centers on providing a safe, supportive environment that fosters healing, personal growth, and long-term stability. The organization offers traumainformed services, access to healthcare, case management, and programs designed to help clients achieve educational, employment, and housing goals.
“Bethany House does a tremendous job helping women and children in our community get back on their feet and rebuild their lives, and I was proud to work with them during Women’s History Month in support of their vital mission,” Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Mulé said. “I am so thankful to the
Freeport, Baldwin and Roosevelt Libraries and all of our generous donors for making this effort a success – your contributions will help families break the cycle of homelessness and have a brighter future!”
–Hernesto Galdamez
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
Following his decisive reelection last month, Robert T. Kennedy became the first fourterm mayor in Freeport’s history. First elected in 2013, Kennedy has focused his administration on economic development, holding the line on taxes through grant funding and unconventional revenue sources. Kennedy recently took the time to answer questions from the Herald and reflect on the road ahead.
Q: Congratulations on your historic fourth-term win. How does it feel to be the first mayor in Freeport history to serve this long?
Mayor Robert Kennedy: Humbling. I am particularly touched by the faith the voters have in this administration and myself. We will continue to provide exemplary service and leadership.
Q: Looking back to when you were first elected in 2013, what’s been the most rewarding part of your journey as mayor so far?
Mayor Kennedy: Being able to improve the quality of life and providing increased safety to our Freeport residents. Everyone on my staff is charged to provide the best service possible and save money where possible. I believe that the residents could see the direction we’re taking, and wished to continue this same path.
Q: Were you surprised by the margin of your victory?
Mayor Kennedy: Yes, of course I was surprised, but I was hopeful to win and I would never take it for granted. “When you work in public service, you try to do a good job, but have to understand that campaigns are sometimes unpredictable”.
Q: You’ve held the line on taxes for 12 years, even with rising mandated costs. How have you managed to maintain that record?
Mayor Kennedy: Believe it or not, we pay attention to every penny. We also have a robust grants program where
we not only look for new funding, but we also follow-up with the respective agency until such time the grant has been approved. We want to receive every penny to which we’re entitled. This twopronged approach has served Freeport well. In addition, we have realized millions of dollars in non-tax revenues (License Plate Recognition system, rental of property, review /recertification of tax exempt properties and outstanding utility collections)
Q: How has the village’s grant-seeking strategy evolved, and what role has it played in achieving a zero tax rate again this year?
Mayor Kennedy: We hired a grants consultant in 2012. This individual not only goes after new money, but is the one-stop source for completing applications and making sure all required applications are properly filed. Applying for a grant can be laborious, so having someone who specializes in the process as a result, the rest of the staff can concentrate on their jobs.
Q: Can you talk more about how the redevelopment of sites like Moxey-Rigby and the upcoming Hilton Garden
Inn project are contributing to the village’s economic strength?
Mayor Kennedy: Economic developments such as these properties increase the tax revenue. The more we increase our tax base, the less residents will have to pay. With additional revenue we can spend more on services, replacement of roads, renovating parks, and marina upgrades. It comes back to finding ways to get things done in the most cost-effective manner.
Q: You’ve increased the police force by 40 percent and decreased crime by 58 percent. What initiatives or strategies helped drive that reduction in crime?
Mayor Kennedy: Adding more officers on our streets has significantly reduced crime and adding additional equipment also helps. We received a grant for a new larger police patrol boat, drone/drone unit, and now have expanded bike unit to 12 officers. These and more continue to help improve safety of all residents.
Q: With over 117 roads repaved and major flood miti-
start introducing classes in early 2026. There are other projects that are not yet advanced enough to speak about, but I will say that there are exciting options in the works.
Q: What would you say is your long-term vision for Freeport over the next decade?
Mayor Kennedy: I am confident that the future is bright for Freeport. We have the best Electric Department, Police Department, DPW, Water Department, Department Heads and Staff. Our waterfront community will enjoy these services for decades to come.
Q: How do you maintain public trust and transparency in local government, especially during election cycles?
gation efforts underway, what’s next on the village’s infrastructure agenda?
Mayor Kennedy: Our Quality of Life Department team, along with the Director of DPW, is constantly on the street making sure we address infrastructure issues and other nuisance concerns. You can also call into the office of Quality of Life at 516-377-2274 to report an issue.
Q: What are your top three priorities for this new term?
Mayor Kennedy: Continuing to hold the line on taxes, nuisance flood mitigation, and the installation of surge barrier gates at the Jones Beach and Reynolds Channel inlets.
Q: Are there any upcoming development or infrastructure projects you’re particularly excited about?
Mayor Kennedy: A new Trade school at the Freeport Armory is one project I am particularly excited about. We have been in discussions with BOCES, trade schools, and unions regarding suggested programs in the offering – plumbing, electric, HVAC, carpentry, and computer science — We expect to
Mayor Kennedy: By always being honest and keeping in mind the reason you ran for office in the first place --- to make the lives of residents better. When you make a decision, you have to ask yourself if that decision is good for the residents you serve. If not, you have to think again.
Q: You’ve credited your administration’s teamwork with many of these accomplishments. How do you foster collaboration with the trustees, department heads, and village staff?
Mayor Kennedy: I make sure we are meeting regularly to review future plans and discuss all options.
Q: What message do you have for the residents of Freeport who have supported you through four terms?
Mayor Kennedy: My door is always open. In addition, I have quality-of-life sessions every Tuesday from noon to 4:30p.m. You don’t have to have an appointment but if needed we can schedule a specific time.” If you have problems, we have resolutions.” I want every resident to know that I am appreciative of the faith they have in me, and until my last day in office I will be working for you.
he said.
“Our goal of district is to continue to provide these world-class educational opportunities and services for all of our Freeport students and families, meeting the varied educational needs of our students, while at the same time being fiscally responsible as a school community and school district,” Jackson added.
The proposed budget is divided into three components: $195.2 million for programs, $28.2 million for capital projects and $27.5 million for administrative costs.
According to Ido Ganepe, the district’s assistant superintendent for business, roughly $213 million of the total is already committed to fixed costs, including salaries, transportation and benefits.
“Most of the entries in these categories are beyond the district control,” he said.“They are based on contractual agreement, changing rates cost of living adjustment, as well as financial market condition.”
Transportation costs are projected to increase by $4.5 million due to a 30 percent anticipated market increase and the inclusion of a $1.3 million voterapproved transportation expansion. Special education services will also rise by $1.2 million.
Glory Angle, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, said all current programs would be continued in the upcoming year, with several new ini-
tiatives added as part of the proposed budget. Among them is a third-grade phonics program aligned with the state’s Science of Reading initiative, which aims to strengthen foundational literacy skills.
For grades K–6, the district is also renewing the Math Expressions curriculum, which was introduced in 2023 and, according to the district, has led to a 15 percent increase in math proficiency across the district.
The Calculus Project, which helps students of color and low-income students
Spousal refusal is a legally valid Medicaid planning option in New York. By way of background, certain income and assets are exempt from Medicaid if there is a spouse. Generally, the spouse at home, known as the “community spouse” may keep about $3,950 per month of the couple’s combined income and up to about $158,000 of the assets or “resources”. Not included in those figures are any other exempt assets, such as a home (up to about $1,100,000 of the equity only) and one automobile. The spouse who is being cared for in a facility is known as the “institutionalized spouse”.
Many a spouse has advised us that they simply cannot afford to live on the allowances that Medicaid provides. This is where spousal refusal comes in. We start by shifting excess assets into the name of the “community spouse”. He or she then signs a document which the elder law attorney prepares and files with the county indicating that they refuse to contribute their income and assets to the care of the ill spouse since they need those income and assets for their own care and wellbeing. Note that you may not refuse your spouse’s own income over the $3,950 per month exemption as it is not coming to you.
Once the “community spouse” invokes their right to refuse, and all of the other myriad requirements of the Medicaid application are met, the state Medicaid program must pay for the care of the institutionalized spouse.
After Medicaid has been granted, the county may institute a lawsuit seeking to recover the cost of care from the refusing spouse. Nevertheless, there are a few reasons why spousal refusal makes sense, even in light of this risk. First, in many instances, the county never invokes this right. Secondly, these lawsuits are often settled for significantly less than the cost of care provided. Thirdly, the payment to the county can sometimes be deferred until the community spouse dies. As one county attorney told us when agreeing to such an arrangement, “the county is going to be around for a long time”. Finally, even though the county may seek recovery, it is only for the Medicaid reimbursement rate and not the private pay rate. For example, if the private pay rate is $18,000 per month, which is what you would have to pay, the amount Medicaid has to pay is generally a quarter to a third less. The county may only pursue you for the amount they actually paid.
access AP calculus, would be continued with professional development, instructional software and student resources.
Other upgrades would include online TI-84 calculator licenses, updated world language and AP psychology textbooks, elementary science materials and support for a JV girls’ flag football team.
The budget also includes the implementation of Magic School AI, a digital tool designed specifically for educators. The software aims to streamline tasks like lesson planning and content differentiation, helping teachers save time and focus more on student engagement.
In addition, under the proposed budget, new staff positions would be created, including a special-education teacher at John W. Dodd Middle School, an English as a New Language teacher at Giblyn Elementary School, and a speech and language therapist shared between Giblyn and Bayview Avenue School. Other positions that would be added include two district-wide security guards, a custodian, JV coaches for flag football and volleyball, as well as several teacher leadership stipends.
Among the capital improvements, the district is proposing a $7 million transfer in funds to pay for HVAC upgrades at Archer Street School and Freeport High School, roof replacements at Archer, district-wide waterproofing, masonry and
bathroom renovations and window replacements.
A second proposition on the ballot would authorize the use of $2.5 million from the capital reserve fund for additional maintenance projects.
“Although the district will make every effort to complete as many projects on this list as possible,” Ganepe said, “the total amount of projects completed will depend on the market condition and the pricing that is received following the bidding process.”
The district’s state aid allocation for 2025–26 is $146,167,717, a net increase of $446,245 over the previous year, which accounts for about 60 percent of annual revenue for balancing the district budget.
Also on the ballot will be the proposed 2025–26 budget of about seven million dollars for the Freeport Memorial Library, which the library director Lee Ann Moltzen will present during a public hearing on May 7 at Caroline G. Atkinson School at 7:30 p.m.
Voters will cast their ballots on the proposed school budget, the capital reserve proposition, and the library budget on May 20, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
To find out your voting site or for more information contact the district clerk at (516) 867-5209. More can be learned about the district at FreeportSchools.org.
ElizABEth pOiROt
West Hempstead Senior Lacrosse
TO SAY POIROT is off to an incredible start would be an understatement. A year after leading Nassau County in goals with 74 to go along with 25 assists, she’s set a torrid pace so far and has the Rams at 4-3 entering this week’s action. She scored their last seven goals April 2 in a 13-11 victory over Freeport and has a county leading 41 goals and 53 points. In 2023 as a sophomore, she scored 45 times to rank amoung Nassau’s best.
Thursday, April 24
Softball: Freeport at Lynbrook ..............................4:30 p.m.
Baseball: South Side at New Hyde Park ...................5 p.m.
Baseball: Bethpage at East Meadow ........................5 p.m.
Baseball: MacArthur at Division ................................5 p.m.
Baseball: Mepham at Calhoun .................................5 p.m.
Baseball: Long Beach at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.
Softball: V.S. Central at West Hempstead ..................5 p.m.
Softball: Westbury at Hewlett ....................................5 p.m.
Softball: Mepham at Seaford ....................................5 p.m.
Softball: Wantagh at MacArthur ................................5 p.m.
Softball: Division at Plainedge ..................................5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at G. City (Mitchel Field) .....5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Hewlett .....................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Long Beach at South Side ................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Massapequa at Wantagh ..................5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: V.S. District at West Hempstead ........5 p.m.
Girls Flag Football: MacArthur at Lynbrook ..........6:30 p.m.
Friday, April 25
Baseball: C.S. Harbor at East Rockaway ...................5 p.m.
Baseball: Oceanside at Freeport ...............................5 p.m.
Baseball: North Shore at Malverne ...........................5 p.m.
Baseball: Sewanhaka at Lawrence ...........................5 p.m.
Softball: Massapequa at Kennedy ............................5 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
The Freeport girls’ lacrosse team has already exceeded last year’s win total and is a few goals away from a winning record.
The Red Devils entered a week-long break during spring vacation at 3-6 overall and 3-4 in Conference IV with three of its losses coming by a combined seven goals. First-year head coach Lauren Chimeri said the team is competing well against strong competition while battling adversity coming off of last year’s 2-11 season where Freeport competed in Conference III.
“This season has been challenging due to the intense schedule, extreme weather and injuries,” said Chimeri, who spent the previous three seasons as an assistant coach. “Freeport never gives up no matter what challenges arise that day.”
Just before April vacation, Freeport hung tough with unbeaten MalverneEast Rockaway on April 14 before falling 14-11. The Red Devils were led by five goals from junior versatile Julia Mendoza-Pineyro, who can play midfield and defense. The offense was also paced by two goals by senior midfielder Ciana Kunen along with single tallies from Ava Smith, Kiara Perez, Chamille Weir and Nicole Hernandez.
Chimeri said Mendoza-Pineyro, Kunen and Smith, a junior attacker, have been the biggest standouts so far this season.
“They are leaders on the field for the rest of the team,” said Chimeri of the trio.
Freeport also came close to knocking off Wheatley, another unbeaten team in Conference IV, during a 10-8 road loss on April 8. Freshman midfielder Kiara Perez had a breakout game with four points on three goals and one assist while senior goalie goalie Bryana Quiros registered five saves.
The other close loss suffered this season came in a 13-11 home loss to West Hempstead on April 2 in which Freeport led 7-4 at halftime and 10-9 going into the
Nicole Hernandez netted one of Freeport’s goals April 14 but the Red Devils fell just short at Malverne/East Rockaway, 14-11.
fourth quarter. Kunen led the offense with three goals and Smith added two.
The three wins so far have included a 13-10 win at Great Neck North, 7-2 triumph against Valley Stream District and 10-0 victory versus Hempstead. In the Hempstead win on April 11, Freeport showed great sportsmanship after scoring 10 goals in the first quarter to not run up the score against a young program that was revived this spring for the first time since 2021.
“We worked on moving the ball around and practicing our plays without shooting,” said Chimeri of the
Hampstead game. “Hempstead is very green but we have been there before so we wanted to show respect and good sportsmanship. I’d love to see their program continue to grow and strengthen.”
Freeport will return home on Thursday to face Jericho at 5 p.m. before visiting Clarke on Tuesday. The Red Devils will then host Sewanhaka on May 1 for a 5 p.m. first draw and finish the season at Elmont on May 5 and home against Herricks on May 8.
“I think we will end the season with a few more wins under our belt,” Chimeri said.
We don't do it for the attention. We don't do it for the recognition. We don't do it for the personal gain. And we certainly don't do it for the awards. We do it for you.
Catholic Health is the winner of Press Ganey’s 2025 HRO Foundation Award for exceptional reliability and patient safety.
At Catholic Health, we pursue the very best in health care for one reason only: you. Every single one of you that walks through our doors, every day. So, while we’re honored by this recognition, we also know there’s no finish line in health care. There’s always a new goal just over the horizon, and a new level of excellence for us to achieve for the health of Long Island.
Learn more at DedicatedtoBetter.org
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen answered the questions that are on hundreds of Nassau County residents’ minds at a town hall event on April 16. Gillen, who represents a large swath of the county’s South Shore, initially spoke about her current projects in Washington. But the majority of the meeting was a questionand-answer session, with questions submitted on index cards by audience members.
Q: How will Gillen work with Republicans to eliminate the cap on the income tax deduction for state and local taxes?
Gillen: She is a member of the bipartisan SALT Caucus, a group of representatives from states that pay the highest taxes in the country, as well as the
Ways and Means Committee, which dictates tax policy.
She co-sponsored a bill with fellow Long Island Rep. Andrew Garbarino to reinstate the full SALT deduction.
Q: How will she protect Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid?
Gillen: “I (joined) 200 of my colleagues in writing a letter to the administration saying that we will not tolerate cuts to Social Security, to Medicaid or to Medicare,” she said.
“We can use our voice,” she continued. “You can use your voice also to reach out to Republicans on Long Island and tell them that you will not stand for these cuts to Medicaid, and put pressure on them so that maybe they will retreat from this position.”
Q: What is she planning to
do to oppose President Trump’s “illegal removal of migrants”?
Gillen: “I, like the majority of Americans, do believe that people who are undocumented and who commit crimes should be deported,” she said.
The main problem, according to Gillen, is that the administration is not following orders from the judiciary. “I support our Constitution,” she said. “I will fight in the halls of Congress to make sure the dear principles upon which this nation was founded
are upheld, and will work with my colleagues in Congress to push back against overreach of the executive branch.”
Q: How is she working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to keep it operational?
Gillen: She is a member of the Science, Space and Technology Committee. “I continue to advocate to make sure that we get the grants necessary to continue the important work of the CDC, and we are pushing back
on our caucus against any action to reduce the ability of the CDC to perform its important work,” she said.
A theme that Gillen emphasized was bipartisanship — whether with members of the administration, or with representatives across the aisle, she emphasized her desire to cooperate for the best results.
Q: Why hasn’t Congress stepped in to prevent a trade war?
Gillen: She supports a new bipartisan bill, the Trade Policy Relief Act, which would “reassert Congress’s authority over trade policy.” The bill would give Congress the authority to review any tariff policies implemented by the administration for 60 days, and to cancel a tariff it does not consider justified.
Q: Why did sheen vote for the Laken Riley Act?
Gillen: “Homeland Security has the right to detain undocumented folks who commit crimes,” she said of the act, which gives federal authorities broader power to deport immigrants accused of crimes. “This expanded the types of crimes that could require mandatory detention. I am proud to join a number of Democrats who voted for this legislation.”
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
National Library Week finished on April 12, and to celebrate, State Sen. Siela Bynoe put forth several bills to help local libraries.
Bynoe is the chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Libraries, which met for the first time this year on April 8.
“I am proud to advance this set of bills that strengthens (libraries’) ability to serve, protect intellectual freedom, and bring critical services directly to the people who need them most,” she said in a news release. “I encourage everyone to explore their local library!”
social workers at some public libraries, dedicate $1 million in grant funding to public libraries offering employment preparation programs, and offer parents a library card for students who are being enrolled in schools.
I encourage everyone to explore their local library.
The committee also put forward two important bills: the Freedom to Read Act and the Open Shelves Act. The first enables school libraries to offer the widest array of appropriate books possible, and the second would permit public libraries to curate themed book collections and programs to explore different perspectives.
SIELA ByNOE state senator
“The local library is often our most accessible and trusted resource in our communities,” she said in the release. “Whether it’s connecting people to job training, helping our kids build their literacy skills early, or simply offering a safe space to learn and grow, libraries meet real needs every day.”
The seven bills put forward by the committee cover a variety of topics.
Three bills introduced by Bynoe would create pilot programs to hire
“Libraries are essential institutions that foster equity in education, bridge gaps in access to critical resources, and serve as community anchors for the neighborhoods they serve,” said AnnaLee Dragon, executive director of the New York Library Association, in a release. “NYLA applauds the work of the New York State Senate Standing Committee on Libraries and its Chair, Senator Siela Bynoe, for advancing legislation intended to support libraries, library users, and the field of librarianship in this crucial moment.”
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Throughout history, countless unsung heroes have made lasting contributions, only to be forgotten over time. Social studies teacher Howard Rosenberg wants to change that.
For the past three years, Rosenberg, 50, of East Meadow, has presented a lecture series on lesser-known historical figures at libraries across Nassau County, including the Freeport and Merrick public libraries.
Rosenberg made his most recent presentation, on women of World War II, on April 16, at a League of Women Voters of East Nassau meeting at the Levittown Public Library.
Rosenberg, a social studies teacher at Gordon Parks Middle School, in Queens, said he is passionate about bringing attention to individuals who are often overlooked in history books.
“It means a lot to present,” he said. “I think sometimes people like to hear these stories told in a public forum.”
The league is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that works to protect and expand voting rights throughout the country while empowering voters through education. The East Nassau chapter encompasses Freeport, Wantagh, Seaford, Levittown, Merrick, Bellmore and East Meadow.
For East Nassau member Barbara Epstein, educating others about brave historical figures, especially women, is essential.
“Any additional knowledge that we gain, particularly on women, is a golden opportunity for us to realize how many different ways women affected our lives,” Epstein said.
Rosenberg’s lecture in Levittown
highlighted three women who were involved in World War II: Virginia Hall, an American who served as a spy for the United Kingdom; Carolyn Ferriday, a New York City philanthropist who aided Holocaust survivors; and Ruby Bradley, a U.S. Army Nurse Corps officer who was held as a prisoner of war.
Hall, born in Maryland in 1906, became one of the most effective Allied spies during World War II. After Nazi Germany invaded France in 1940, Hall, who was traveling Europe as she finished her college studies, joined the French resistance by volunteering as an ambulance driver.
As the occupation intensified, Hall fled to Spain, where she was recruited by the United Kingdom’s Special Operations Executive, a covert agency founded by Winston Churchill. Posing as a
journalist, she built a resistance network across France and recruited nearly 90 civilians to assist the Allied cause. In 1942, she led a successful mission to help captured agents escape from Mauzac Prison in France.
Her work made her a target of the Gestapo, who dubbed her “the limping lady,” a reference to her prosthetic leg, the result of an earlier hunting accident. Despite the danger, Hall continued to operate in France under disguise, even posing as a milkmaid to transmit intelligence. Her bravery earned her numerous honors, including the Distinguished Service Cross.
Ferriday, a New York City socialite and philanthropist, devoted herself to helping Polish women who survived medical experiments in Ravensbrück, a Nazi concentration camp in Germany.
Known as “the rabbits” because their injuries caused them to hop, the women had endured forced infections and bone surgeries, leaving them disfigured.
“They did terrible things to these prisoners,” Rosenberg said. “After the fight was done, they were sick, they were maimed. They needed help.”
Ferriday traveled to Europe to meet the survivors and brought attention to their stories through news outlets. At the time, many doubted the extent of the atrocities that had taken place at the camp, Rosenberg said.
The third woman Rosenberg highlighted was Bradley, a U.S. Army nurse who was born in Virginia. After high school, she joined the military, and she was captured shortly after they attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941, and she spent more than three years in a prisoner of war camp in the Philippines. Despite the extreme conditions, which included scarce food and rampant disease, Bradley used her medical training to treat fellow prisoners, performing more than 230 operations, delivering 13 babies, and even smuggling food to feed starving children. When the camp was liberated in 1945, Bradley weighed just 86 pounds.
Epstein said it was “mind-boggling” how many women remain unknown despite their contributions not only to the United States, but to the world.
“It’s unfortunate that a lot of contributions people make, you just don’t hear about them,” said League Treasurer Peggy Stein. “They’re just not the ones that are highlighted.”
Rosenberg said he hoped to one day turn his presentations on unsung heroes into a book. Until then, he planned to continue sharing stories of bravery, especially those of Hall, Ferriday and Bradley.
On April 13, 2025, police arrested a driver who was stopped for a traffic infraction and found to be intoxicated.
The individual was processed at Police Headquarters.
On April 9, 2025, a person was arrested for grand larceny after police found they used a fake ID to cash a check during an identity theft investigation. The individual was processed at Police Headquarters.
On April 11, 2025, police arrested a person for stealing from a local business. They were taken to Police Headquarters for processing.
On April 13, 2025, another person was arrested for shoplifting from a business. The individual was processed at Police Headquarters.
On April 16, 2025, a person was arrested for using someone else’s credit card to make a purchase. They were taken to Police Headquarters for processing.
On April 18, 2025, police arrested a person for stealing from a local business. The individual was processed at Police Headquarters.
On April 21, 2025, police took a report after three unknown individuals removed items from a business without permission. No arrest was requested.
On April 21, 2025, officers documented a case in which several items were stolen from an unlocked vehicle. No arrest was requested.
On April 21, 2025, police took a report for a lost passport. The incident was documented.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
York City, but she still spends her summers on Fire Island, which has long served as inspiration for her work.
“I’ve been out in Fire Island for the past 30 summers,” she said. “And a lot of its inspiration,” she added of the book, “came from the people on the island, the people in my town, the general feeling of closeness and camaraderie and intergenerational friendships that I see exist.”
She writes a column called “Cake or Pie?” for the Fire Island & Great South Bay News, in which she interviews other authors.
“On Fire Island” is the first of what Rosen calls her “Fire Island trilogy.” The second book, “Seven Summer Weekends,” is already available, and her next novel, “Songs of Summer,” will be released on May 20. All three books are stand-alones, but they revisit the same setting and sometimes follow related characters.
She described “On Fire Island” as the story of a woman experiencing one final summer there, during which she reflects on her husband’s circle of friends. The island itself, she said, plays a significant role in the novel.
The story begins with the death of the main character, and Rosen said she wanted to approach the subject of mortality in a way that was moving and hopeful. In writing the book, she drew from her own Jewish background and studied different spiritual perspectives on the afterlife.
“I went to a medium, and I took classes on the Jewish perspective, on the afterlife, with a
rabbi in London for six weeks, and learned a lot, a tremendous amount about different perspectives,” she said. “But the best part about writing this book is how many widows, and people that have lost someone recently, or anytime … have contacted me and said the book has helped them so much. And last summer, 10 widows from Long Island came to Fire Island, rented a house and invited me to their book club.”
She said the book offers “a very uplifting perspective on death,” and mentioned being moved by the London rabbi. “According to the rabbi, he said that there are three generations of your relatives at every wedding, for example. So even that small thought alone is such a beautiful thing.”
Rosen, who previously worked in the New York garment center before becoming a screenwriter, transitioned into novels for creative freedom and the chance to reach more people. “A book is always your own,” she said. “So it gives you a lot more creative control, and also a lot of chances to say what the characters are thinking.”
Rosen said she enjoys library events because of the interaction with readers. “I love talking to readers,” she said. “I adore hearing what the books did for them, and the journey. I love hearing how much they laughed.”
“I just like meeting the people, meeting and signing,” she concluded.
She encourages readers to follow her on Instagram or visit her website, janelrosen.com, to stay updated on her appearances and new releases.
THURSDAY, MAY 22
By Brian Norman
Some of Long Island’s top attorneys were honored for their professional achievements and community contributions at the 2025 Herald Top Lawyers of Long Island Awards Gala at the Heritage Club in Bethpage on April 8.
More than 300 people attended the gala, where 50 of Long Island’s top attorneys, nominated by their peers, were recognized for their professional excellence and dedication to their communities.
Before the awards ceremony, attorneys gathered for a cocktail hour, where they had the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow honorees and colleagues.
Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., opened the ceremony by thanking all of those who were in attendance for their dedication to their professions and the people they serve. “Lawyers are pivotal in navigating business and personal matters, and we admire the commitment that our honorees have to their clients and all of the institutions they serve,” Richner said.
He added that a portion of the proceeds from the gala would be donated to the WE CARE fund, the charitable arm of the Nassau County Bar Association. The gala attracted representatives from law firms across Long Island. Among those honored were Minevich Law Group, Villacorta Law Group, JAG Law Group, Schroder & Storm LLP, and Meyer Suozzi Attorneys at Law.
Thomas A. Kenniff, a criminal defense attorney and founding partner of Raiser & Kenniff P.C., was the keynote speaker. He detailed his high-profile defense of Marine veteran Daniel Penny last year, when the Long Island native was acquitted of homicide charges stemming from a fatal subway confrontation with a man who had a history of violent behavior.
Kenniff said he was humbled to speak in front of the gala honorees, and honored to be recognized by his peers as the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.
“It’s very humbling, and it’s difficult to speak and be recognized by a crowd of this caliber,” he said. “You look around the room and see first-class attorneys, household names in the legal industry, and you can’t help but ask yourself, ‘Why me?’ It’s a tremendous honor.”
Nicholas Papain, director and managing member of Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C., was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Papain, who has spent his entire career with the firm since joining it in 1978, has been a personal injury lawyer for 47 years. He has represented families of first responders to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and played a key role in securing a $700 million settlement for rescue and recovery workers.
“I represent people who have been
Hundreds attended to celebrate award winners recognition.
catastrophically injured, and offer them, through our work for them, some financial security for the losses that they have suffered,” Papain said. “It’s a huge honor, I am very humbled by it, I am very appreciative of it, and I am fortunate to be in this position.”
Other honorees included Svetlana Minevich, of the Minevich Law Group, named top health care attorney; Eduardo M. Villacorta, of Villacorta Law Group, recognized as top immigration attorney; and Marjorie Mesidor, of Mesidor PLLC, honored as top employ-
ment discrimination attorney. Mesidor said that to be recognized for what she does drives her to do well. “To be recognized for the work that you are doing is always a great motivator, particularly in times like these, where you feel like there is a lot going on in our country both socially and politically and in the legal field,” Mesidor said. “So this helps to put a little gas in your tank, so to speak, and encourages me to keep going.”
Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP was among the firms with multiple members
The Schroder and Strom, LLP team, Allison Brewi (left), Nicolette MainiMoligano, Robert Goldstein, Esq., Edward Mohlenhoff, Esq., Anthony Forzaglia, Esq., Honorees Joseph C. Packard, Esq. and Christopher P. Byrnes Esq., Jeremy May, Esq., Asad Jilani, Michael Spellman, Esq. (right).
honored, and was recognized as the Top Law Firm on Long Island for the seventh consecutive year. Managing Partner Joseph G. Milizio said that it was a great feeling to receive the award at this point in his career.
“This award is an honor, and it means that I am at a stage in my career where I am able to be recognized for the things that I have done,” he said, “and that is a great feeling.”
For a full list of honorees and to view more pictures please visit: RichnerLive. com/toplawyerawards.
Discover Long Island, the marketing organization promoting Long Island to the world, held its annual meeting and legislative breakfast at Hilton Long Island on March 14.
Discover LI presented its agenda for the year and premiered its new YouBelong campaign, featuring stories of local Long Islanders and business owners. “2025 is already proving to be a monumental year, and there is much more on the horizon,” said Mitchell Pally, chairman of the Discover LI board of directors.
In 2023, travelers spent $7.5 billion while visiting Long Island, in large part as a result of Discover Long Island’s global marketing of the region as a premier travel destination. With events like the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby” and the 2026 NHL All-Star Game, Long Island is expecting an unprecedented number of visitors in the coming months.
–Madison Gusler
role of tourism in boosting the
The goal of Discover LI is to increase tourism in the region, because tourism drives revenue across the Island. Over 42 million tourists visited Long Island in 2023, generating $900 million in local and state tax revenue. During peak season, tourism generates over 100,000 jobs.
With 11 social media channels and over 10 million followers, Discover LI promotes Long Island tourism to audiences around the globe.
Discover LI’s team attends tourism trade shows around the world to promote Long Island internationally. They target high-value visitors who spend more when they visit. When travelers come to LI from outside the region, they spend on hotels, dining and activities.
And Discover LI isn’t ignoring residents, featuring hyper-local marketing that aims to acquaint Long Islanders with new experiences in their own backyards.
Discover LI’s digital advances, with NearMe app and AI implementation
Discover LI has made strides in digital options for those planning a visit. Its AI chatbot, LiLi, was launched in 2024, and has since sent 6,071 messages. LiLi speaks a number of languages, and has saved Discover LI staff more than 200 hours of work.
The Discover LI app, which has seen a 300 percent increase in downloads since 2024, generates suggestions for dining and entertainment near users and provides information about the area. There is also a section of the website that allow users to buy tickets for various events without leaving the Discover LI page.
By Karen Bloom
pring is calling — and there’s no better place to answer than at Old Westbury Gardens. As blooms burst into color and we shake off winter — and early spring’s chill — the beloved 200-acre historic estate is the perfect place to be.
Now a few weeks into its re-opening, this idyllic landmark is ready to enchant visitors with its lush gardens, a refreshed Westbury House and a calendar packed with events and activities. And this momentous season marks the conclusion of its 65th anniversary year as a public garden and historic home.
For Maura Brush, Old Westbury Gardens’ president and horticulturist extraordinaire, the milestone continues to carry a deep meaning.
“Our anniversary year is still ongoing and we have so much to offer,” she says. “And we’re excited about the event we have planned for the 100th anniversary of ‘The Great Gatsby’ being published.”
Gatsby enthusiasts will have to wait for fall to celebrate iconic novel. In the meantime, there’s so much to enjoy — right now.
“When the gardens first opened to the public, it was Peggy Phipps and her friends who helped usher in that new chapter. Sixty-five years later, we’re still here, thriving,” Brush says. It’s a real testament to how loved these gardens are.”
Indeed, it’s not just about surviving — it’s about flourishing. The estate, once home to prominent lawyer John Shaffer Phipps, draws record numbers of visitors and members alike, year after year, enticed by its historic charm and horticultural magic.
And that magic begins the moment you step through the gates.
“All winter long you’re sort of just looking for any signs of life in the garden,” Brush says, about the transition to spring.
“The smallest snowdrop or crocus means the world. And then when you hit this time of year it feels like I can take a walk in the garden in the morning, and by the afternoon something else has sprung up. I love that the garden really changes almost day to day.”
One of her favorite early spring spots? The serene lakeside.
“In the early part of the season, the lake areas are just
stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the
stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the sunlight dances on the water,” she says.
Keep your eyes open for some of the garden’s wildest residents: turtles sunning on logs, ducks gliding and birdsong echoing through the trees.
“This time of year you start to see the turtles more,” she notes. “The logs are filled with those turtles trying to get their Vitamin D, getting any sun they can.”
Just like us.
• Old Westbury Gardens
71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
Another mustvisit is the delightful Primrose Path, at its peak in April through mid-May. Here, you’ll find delicate primroses in vibrant hues, forget-me-nots and a scattering of ephemerals — in an expression seasonal joy.
As spring progresses, Old Westbury Gardens transforms week by week. Daffodils, fritillaria, tulips, and more unfurl in careful succession, planned and planted by Brush’s dedicated team.
Of course, you’ll want to head over to the Walled Garden where tulips are in spring’s spotlight.
“The tulips change every year. What we really try to do is create a display that starts with the very early spring tulips and goes to the late bloomers,” Brush explains.
Some appear in early April while others flower closer to May, or even in the middle of May.
“We take a lot of pride in the tulip display,” she continues. “The combinations are very thoughtful. We’ll find a tulip that we really like and then we’ll try to find a pansy or some other annual that has some colors that bring out the tulip’s color and coordinate with that tulip. One row might be very ‘hot’ with ambers and yellows and oranges and then the center aisle will be very ‘cool’ with pale pink and silvery blues and purples. The Walled Garden is a masterpiece.”
Each year Old Westbury Gardens offers a soul-refreshing way to celebrate spring’s return. Plus the extensive schedule of programs enhances its surroundings — and its rich heritage.
“I am especially proud of the dynamic public programming we have curated,” Brush says.“Beloved favorites like Dog Days and Midsummer Nights return, alongside exciting new additions. From inspiring art programs and wellness, we always have a rich roster of programming because that’s who we are.
“It’s a legacy to the Phipps family that their lovely home is so enjoyed by so many people. I think that’s what Peggy envisioned when she so generously gifted Old Westbury Gardens. She had a very happy childhood and life here. Her vision was she would be able to share some of that with the generations to come after her.
And that’s exactly what she’s done.”
So go ahead — let spring sweep you away. The gates are open, the flowers are blooming and it’s all more spectacular than ever.
Experience an intimate and inspiring night with Misty Copeland, the trailblazing ballerina who made history as the first Black female principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. Hear her incredible journey, from overcoming obstacles to becoming a global icon in the dance world and beyond. Copeland has often spoken out about being “different” in the ballet scene. From living in a motel to dancing on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House, her story of perseverance through poverty, racism, and overcoming setbacks from injury has made Copeland an inspiring figure to millions. She is joined in conversation by screenwriterauthor-producer Susan Fales-Hill. She reflects on lessons learned, the remarkable mentors who have guided her on her path and her hopes and aspirations for the future. Also enjoy a performance by members of the prestigious ABT Studio Company, media from Misty’s legendary and trailblazing career, and some surprises, including students of Copeland’s Be Bold program, her groundbreaking afterschool dance initiative.
Saturday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those wild days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/ pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Jessie’s Girl has mastered over-the-top renditions of the some of world’s most unforgettable songs, all while dressed up as the iconic characters of that decade. Theater meets live music — covered with a load of ‘80s glitz.
Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. $49.50, $37.50, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Fire Department Info Night Freeport Fire Department hosts a Recruitment and Information Night Meet members, explore equipment, and learn how to join the department and training process.
• Where: Freeport Fire Department Headquarters, 15 Broadway, Freeport
• Time: 7-10 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 377-2190
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) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the wellreceived 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.
• Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’
The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: Also April 27, April 30-May 1, times vary
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Long Island Reads: ‘On Fire Island’ Freeport Memorial Library welcomes all to a discussion of Jane L. Rosen’s “On Fire Island,” this year’s Long Island Reads selection.
• Where: 144 W. Merrick Road
• Time: 1 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 379-3274 or freeportlibrary.info
2 Rockville Centre
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444
Feel the beat with Carole’s Kings Plaza Theatricals continues its tribute series with a lively look at the Carole King songbook. The iconic singersongwriter gets a brand-new sound with Carole’s Kings, the world’s first all-male Carole King tribute. This dynamic performance is jam-packed with chart-topping sensations such as “The Locomotion,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and many more. $40, $35 seniors.
• Where: Plaza’s stage at Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont.
• Time: 2 p.m.
• Contact: plazatheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870.
After Five Networking Mixer
Craving Culture hosts a networking mixer for professionals and creatives of color. RSVP for free or purchase a $12.51 wine ticket online.
• Where: Backyard BBQ, 300 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport
• Time: 5:30-10 p.m.
• Contact: https://tinyurl. com/36bm46f8
The Belle Sylvester Recital Series welcomes the Long Island Chamber Orchestra to Freeport Memorial Library. Program includes Brahms and Shostakovich. Registration required.
• Where: 144 W. Merrick Road
• Time: 7-8 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 379-3274 or freeportlibrary.info
disco, dining, drinks, and dancing. APR
Reservations encouraged.
• Where: 385 S. Main St., Freeport
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 298-3487
Strong’s Marine hosts a weekend boat show at Al Grover’s Marine in Freeport, featuring models from Cobia, Grady-White, Pursuit, Cobalt, Regal, and Cruisers Yachts. Schedule an appointment with a sales consultant or sign up online, through April 27.
• Where: Al Grover’s Marine, 500 S. Main St.
• Time: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Contact: strongsmarine.com or (631) 791-6113
Celebrate Earth Day at beautiful Sands Preserve Preserve! Join the efforts to help prevent plastic and other harmful materials from polluting our oceans and help keep the preserve’s shoreline clean. Bring your own gloves, all other materials will be provided. No registration is required. All beach cleanup volunteers receive free admission to the Preserve, as a thank you for their help in
• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: landmarkonmainstreet.org.
Three mammoth bands. Three musical phenomenons. One idea inspired by love of the music. That’s Pink Talking Fish. The hybrid tribute fusion act takes the music from three iconic bands creating a remarkable musical jam. PTF brings their unique sound to the Landmark on Main Street stage, on their latest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the incredible Pink Floyd album “Wish You Were Here.” This show consists of two sets. The first will be a full rendition of this epic album from start to finish, with “Classic PTF” combinations in the second set. “Wish You Were Here” is extremely meaningful to the band members and so many music lovers around the world and PTF is thrilled to bring this album to life in 2025. Although the music from each act is different, PTF has discovered that fusing the material together creates an amazing story. The epic emotion of Pink Floyd; the funky, danceable layerings of The Talking Heads; the styles, unique compositional structures and pure fun of Phish — to merge these three into one gives music lovers a special experience. Tickets are $49 and $46.
this important mission.
• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point
• Time: noon-2 p.m.
• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 570-2185 or email info@sandspointpreserve. org
Valenti’s ‘From Italy with Love’ Enjoy an evening of romantic songs in English, Italian and Spanish at the Madison Theatre. This exquisite concerts celebrates the enchantment of Italy, showcasing the captivating persona and velvety vocals of Giada Valenti. Her voice evokes memories of Celine Dion’s powerful vocals blended with the charm of Edith Piaf, accompanied by remarkable special guests. Hailing from Venice, Giada promises an unforgettable performance filled with passion, emotion, and pure musical artistry. From the hauntingly beautiful “The Prayer” to the romantic “A Place for Us” from Romeo and Juliet, she mesmerizes audiences with stunning interpretations of beloved tunes.
• Where: Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave.,
Tunes with Hard Drive
Kick off the weekend with live rock as Hard Drive returns to Montana Brothers in Freeport. Enjoy a high-energy performance, food, and drinks in a lively setting.
• Where: 385 S. Main St.
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: montanabrothers.com
The Long Island Marathon and additional races return to Eisenhower Park with three days packed with races for runners of all ages and abilities, through May 4.
• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow
• Time: Varying times on Friday, Saturday & Sunday
• Contact: RunSignUp.com/ Race/NY/EastMeadow/ LongIslandMarathon
Having an event? Items on The Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
April 24, 2025 —
LEGAL NOTICE
FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
In the Matter of an Article 10 Neglect Proceeding Nassau County Department of Social Services (Petitioner)File #: Docket #:637794 NN-00640-25
Miya Murphy (Respondent)
Mariah S. Murphy (DOB: 01/16/2025)
SUMMONSPUBLICATION (IN PERSON)
To:Miya Murphy 28 Conlon Road Roosevelt, NY 11575
A petition under Article 10 of the Family Court Act has been filed with this Court requesting the following reliefs: Pre-Petition Application and Neglect. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear IN PERSON before this Court on:
Date/Time/Part:May 8, 2025 at 12:30 PM in Part 2
Purpose:In Person Appearance and Conference
Presiding: Hon. Robin M. Kent
Location: Courthouse, 1200 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590 Floor: 3
Room: 303
to answer the attached petition and to be dealt with in accordance with the Family Court Act. Please bring this notice with you and check in with the Court Officer in the Part.
Be sure to arrive at the courthouse prior to the time listed above.
Do not be late as there is a limited window of time for your case to be heard.
If you fail to appear as directed, a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Dated: March 11, 2025
John Aiken, Chief Clerk TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT:
The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Robin M. Kent of the Family Court, Nassau County, dated and filed with the petition and other papers in the Office of the Clerk of the Family Court, Nassau County. 152739
LEGAL NOTICE
FAMILY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
In the Matter of an Article 10 Neglect Proceeding
Nassau County Department of Social Services (Petitioner)File #: Docket #:603405
NN-00767-25
Miya M. Murphy (Respondent)
Malachi T. Murphy (DOB: 12/01/2016)
SUMMONSPUBLICATION (IN PERSON)
To:Miya M. Murphy 28 Conlon Road Roosevelt, NY 11575
A petition under Article 10 of the Family Court Act has been filed with this Court requesting the following reliefs: Neglect.
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear IN PERSON before this Court on:
Date/Time/Part:May 8, 2025 at 12:30 PM in Part 2
Purpose: In Person
Appearance and Conference
Presiding: Hon. Robin M. Kent
Location: Courthouse, 1200 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590
Floor: 3 Room: 303 to answer the attached petition and to be dealt with in accordance with the Family Court Act. Please bring this notice with you and check in with the Court Officer in the Part. Be sure to arrive at the courthouse prior to the time listed above. Do not be late as there is a limited window of time for your case to be heard.
If you fail to appear as directed, a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Dated: March 11, 2025
John Aiken, Chief Clerk TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT:
The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Robin M. Kent of the Family Court, Nassau County, dated and filed with the petition and other papers in the Office of the Clerk of the Family Court, Nassau County. 152741
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. KETEL CESAR, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF GINETTE JOUBERT A/K/A GINETTE JEAN LOUIS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 15, 2024 and a Substitute Referee Order duly entered December 27, 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 May 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 49 Meyer Street, Roosevelt, NY 11575. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 556 and Lot 12. Approximate amount of judgment is $327,508.97 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611775/2022. Cash will not be accepted.
Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152735
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING FREEPORT UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Nassau County, N. Y. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Freeport Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York, shall conduct its Annual Budget Vote and Trustees Election on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The vote will be by voting machines at the designated polling places set forth below, between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. (local time).
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the following matters will be submitted to the registered voters of the Freeport School District:
(1) To vote on the annual school budget as set forth in Proposition No. 1 below:
Proposition No. 1
SCHOOL BUDGET
RESOLVED that the Annual School Budget be adopted and the necessary amount be raised by a tax upon the taxable property located in Freeport Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Freeport, New York, for the School Year 2025-2026.
(2) To vote on the annual library budget as set forth in Proposition No. 2 below:
Proposition No. 2
FREEPORT MEMORIAL LIBRARY BUDGET
RESOLVED, that the Freeport Memorial Library Budget be adopted and the necessary amount be raised by a tax upon the taxable property located in Freeport Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Freeport, New York, for the Freeport Memorial Library for the year 2025-2026.
(3) To vote on the expenditure of funds from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 16, 2017, as set forth in Proposition No. 3 below:
PROPOSITION #3 Capital Reserve Fund Proposition SHALL the Board of Education of the Freeport Union Free School District be authorized to expend: $2,500,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 16th, 2017 for the purpose of performing the following projects: Classroom Ceiling Tiles, Flooring & Lighting ReplacementsDistrictwide; Bathroom RenovationsDistrictwide. All of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.
(4) The election of two (2) School Trustee of the Board of Education. The term shall begin July 1, 2025 and end June 30, 2028. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Board of Registration shall be open, in accordance
with the Laws of the State of New York, every school day in the Administration Building, 235 North Ocean Avenue, between the hours of 8:30 o’clock a.m. and 5:00 o’clock p.m. (local time) until Thursday, May 15, 2025, for the Annual Budget Vote and Election to be held on May 20, 2025. In addition, the Board of Registration will be open Tuesday, April 22, 2025, and Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4:00 o’clock p.m. until 8:00 o’clock p.m. for residents to register to vote for the Annual Budget and Trustee election to be held on May 20, 2025. Any person who is not registered with the School District or who is not registered in the General Election or who has not voted at any annual or special district meeting or election held within the last four calendar years (2020-2024) must register to vote on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The voting registers will be open to inspection by any qualified voter on weekdays between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. from May 15, 2025 to May 19, 2025, excluding Sunday, May 18, 2025, and between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. noon on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the Office of the District Clerk; and at each polling place on election day. Absentee and early mail ballots will be available for the election of School Board Members and the Budget Vote.
Applications for absentee and early mail ballots are available in the Office of the District Clerk at the Freeport Public School Administration Building, 235 North Ocean Avenue, in Freeport, NY 11520. Applications for absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving
a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. Absentee and early mail ballots will be accepted in the Office of the Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 P.M. on the day of the vote; any ballot received after that time will not be counted.
A listing of all people to whom absentee and early mail ballots were issued will be available in the District Clerk’s Office during regular office hours until the day before the vote.
Candidates for the Office of School Board Trustee must be nominated by a petition signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District. The petition shall state name and residence of the candidate and shall state the name and residence of each signer. Candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be considered elected to their respective offices. Where terms are of different length, the candidate receiving the highest vote shall be elected to the longest term. However, a nomination may be rejected by the Board of Education if the candidate is ineligible for the office or declares his unwillingness to serve. Petitions shall be filed between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. no later than Monday, April 21, 2025 at the Office of the District Clerk.
A statement of the amount of money which will be required for the School Year 2025-2026 will be available to the taxpayers at any of the School District buildings between 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. not later than fourteen (14) days before the vote, excepting Saturdays and Sundays or holidays, and at such annual election.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part, and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s)
maintained for public notices, as well as on the District’s website.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a lottery shall take place on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. for the purpose of determining candidate placement on the ballot should additional candidates file nominating petitions.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a budget hearing will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:30 P.M. in the Caroline G. Atkinson School for the purpose of discussing the expenditures of funds and budgeting thereof.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a proposition in writing by petition of least forty-one (41) signatures of qualified voters of the District is required to place a proposition on the ballot. The petition must be filed in the Office of the District Clerk on or before 5:00 P.M. (local time) Monday, April 21, 2025. Petitions for propositions which are required by law to be included in the notice of the annual meeting must be submitted no later than 5:00 P.M. on or before Friday, March 21, 2025. The Board of Education reserves the right to edit or amend any proposition without changing the intent thereof.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 P.M. on April 25, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of
the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 P.M. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election shall be held in accordance with the Rules for the Election of School Board Members adopted by the Board of Education.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR VOTING
1. A person shall be a citizen of the United States.
2. Eighteen or more years of age.
3. A resident of the District for a period of thirty days or more preceding the election at which he or she offers to vote.
4. Must be registered to vote.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the school election districts within the school district are as follows:
DISTRICT N-l
The Atkinson School Voting District is contained in the area, which is west of North Main Street, south of the northerly School District Boundary Line, and east of Milburn Creek, and north of the Long Island Railroad.
DISTRICT N-2
The Columbus Avenue School Voting District is contained in the area which is north of the Long Island Railroad, east of North Main Street, south of the most northerly District boundary line, and west of the Meadowbrook Parkway.
DISTRICT S-3
The Bayview Avenue School Voting District is contained in the area which is south of the Long Island Railroad right of way and west of the Eastern boundary line which runs south down South Long Beach Avenue to the southern property lines of the properties on the south side of Smith Street, then west along said property lines to the easterly property lines of the properties fronting on Bayview Avenue, thence proceeding south along said
property lines to the easterly property lines on Branch Avenue and then southerly along the eastern boundary lines of said properties fronting on the east side of Branch Avenue to the northern property lines of properties fronting on the north side of Lewis Street, thence easterly along said boundary to Randall Bay. The southern boundary is the Village Line and the western boundary is the Village Line.
DISTRICT S-4
The Archer Street School Voting District is contained in the area which begins at the southerly side of the Long Island Railroad right of way where same intersects with the westerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the west side of Long Beach Avenue; thence running easterly along said right of way to the westerly boundary lines or properties fronting on the west side of Henry Street; thence southeasterly along said boundary lines to the intersection with South Main Street; thence southerly along the west side of South Main Street to the intersection with Mill Road; thence easterly along the south side of Mill Road to the intersection of Mill Road and Freeport Creek; thence southerly along Freeport Creek to the northerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the north side of East Bedell Street; thence easterly along said property lines to the Village Line also known as Freeport Creek; thence southerly along said line to the most southerly Village Line; thence westerly along said Village Line to Hudson Bay; thence north and northwesterly along Woodcleft Basin to Sportsman’s Channel; thence north along said Channel and its extension to the center line of Atlantic Avenue; thence westerly along said center line of Atlantic Avenue to the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Bayview Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the intersection of the southerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the south side of Smith Street; thence easterly along said boundary lines of properties fronting on
the west side of Long Beach Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the point or place of beginning.
The Giblyn School Voting District is contained in the area which begins at a point where the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on Bayview Avenue intersects the center line of Atlantic Avenue running thence easterly along said center line to the western boundary line of properties fronting on the west side of Sportsman’s Avenue; thence southerly along said lines to the Sportsman’s Channel; thence southerly along said Channel to the Woodcleft Basin; thence southeasterly along said basin to easterly boundary of Village Line running along Hudson Bay; thence southerly along said boundary line to the southerly boundary of the Village Line also known as Little Swift Creek; thence westerly along said Village Line to a point where same intersects Randall Bay; thence northerly along said Bay to the intersection of the northerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the north side of Lewis Street; thence westerly along said boundary line to the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Branch Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the intersection of the east boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Bayview Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the point or place of beginning.
DISTRICT S6
The Cleveland Avenue School Voting District (now based at the Albany Avenue Field House, 55 Albany Avenue) is contained in the area which is south of the Long Island Railroad right of way, east of the eastern boundary of District S-4, with the eastern and southern boundary being the village boundaries.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Sunday F. Coward Benjamin Roberts President District Clerk 152708
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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS
MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. PUBLIC
ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF HENRY SMITH, DECEASED, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report, Amend the Caption, and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 30, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 17 Wilson Place, Roosevelt, NY 11575.
All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 336 and Lots 41-44. Approximate amount of judgment is $511,150.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #018056/2011.
George Peter Esernio, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152733
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 NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, BRIDGEWELL CAPITAL, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. TANDEM ENTERPRISE LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive,
Mineola, NY 11501 on May 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 319 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 394. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,198,937.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600164/2022.
Oscar Prieto, Esq., Referee
Vallely Mitola Ryan PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152838
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
Printed in this publication can be found online. To search by publication name, go to: www.newyorkpublicnotices.com TO PLACE AN AD CALL 516-569-4000 x 232
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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR MLM 13648 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. PANTHER ENTERPRISES INC., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 18, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 305 Roosevelt Avenue, 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 Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 152 and Lots 5 & 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $859,190.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 614107/2023.
Peter L. Kramer, Esq., Referee 516-510-4020 Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 234193-1 152840
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LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR LEGACY MORTGAGE ASSET TRUST 2019-GS7, Plaintiff -againstEULALEE PARKER; RAMON PARKER, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 26, 2023 and entered on July 28, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 13, 2025 at 3:30 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 a point on the southerly side of Morton Avenue, distant 125 feet easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of Morton Avenue with the easterly side of Brookside Avenue; being a plot 50 feet by 100 feet by 50 feet by 100 feet.
SBL#
0054-00299-00281
Said premises known as 61 MORTON AVE, FREEPORT, NY 11520 Approximate amount of lien $632,558.32 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.
Index Number 608057/2020.
CHESTER H. GREENSPAN, ESQ., Referee Kosterich & Skeete, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave, Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 152773
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, FLAGSTAR BANK, N.A., F/K/A FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, Plaintiff, vs. MIGUEL F. HERNANDEZ, ESTER AMBROSIO-RUIZ, if living and if he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, though, or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heir-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 18, 2025 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 96 FLORAL BLVD, FLORAL PARK, NY 11001. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated
Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 181, Lot: 107 & 406. Approximate amount of judgment is $983,321.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 606142/2019. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee. For Sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
CHRISTINE M. GRILLO, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 152818
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, ONEWEST BANK, FSB, Plaintiff, vs. LILLIE EDWARDS A/K/A LILLIE R. EDWARDS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 15, 2015, a Short Form Order Substitute Referee duly entered on June 28, 2023 and an Order for Extension of Time to Conduct Foreclosure Sale duly entered on December 28, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 20, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 123 Shonnard Avenue, 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 55, Block 223 and Lot 194. Approximate amount of judgment is $474,792.08 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #014486/2012.
Heather D. Crosley, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 153003
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. DARIO CHARLES, et al, Defts. Index #603899/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 1, 2024, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on May 21, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. prem. k/a Section 36, Block M, Lot 20 Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale.
MERIK AARON, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #102233 153005
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, UNITED WHOLESALE MORTGAGE, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. SAMINA ASAD, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 19, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 16, 2025, at 2:30 PM, premises known as 644 GUY LOMBARDO AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon
April 24, 2025 —
erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 62, Block: 102, Lot: 222. Approximate amount of judgment is $640,750.60 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 620490/2023.
If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.
PAUL MELI, Esq., Referee
Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 153007
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE
Index No. 609689/2023
Date Filed: 4/9/2025 Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstNassau County Public Administrator, as Limited Administrator of the Estate of Yvonne Severson a/k/a Yvonne N. Severson; Bernadette Scales a/k/a Bernadette P. Scales; Herman Charles a/k/a Herman E. Charles a/k/a Herman E. Charles, Jr. a/k/a Sterling Charles, if he be living or if he be dead, his spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to Plaintiff; Brittany Olibrice a/k/a Brittany Severson; Malcolm Severson; State of New York, and “JOHN DOE”, said name being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, and any parties, corporations or entities, if any, having or claiming an interest or lien upon the mortgaged premises, Defendants.
PROPERTY ADDRESS: 188 Independence Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520
TO THE ABOVE NAMED
DEFENDANTS:
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.
TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Felice J. Muraca, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, entered Apr. 3, 2025 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $157,000.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on June 20, 2007, at Liber M 32017 of Mortgages, page 619 covering premises known as 188 Independence Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520 a/k/a Section 55, Block 357, Lots 872 and 913 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. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME.
SPEAK TO AN
ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY.
SENDING A PAYMENT TO 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: May 13, 2024
Steven M. Palmer, Esq. Foreclosure Attorney LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (585) 247-9000 Fax: (585) 247-7380
Our File No. 23-093060 #102252 152918
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST MITCHELL PENDARVIS INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF VALARIE COLLIER, KAYLA SIGMORE AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF VALARIE COLLIER, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 13, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 20, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 58 Weberfield 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 55 Block 207 Lot 24. Approximate amount of judgment $451,981.90 plus
interest and costs. Premises wil l be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615127/2023. Ellen N. Savino, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003027 85115 152927
LEGAL NOTICE
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 600625/2019 U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT Plaintiff, vs MADISON RESOURCES, LTD., OFFICE OF THE MEDICAID INSPECTOR GENERAL/HEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, INC. O/B/O NASSAU COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, PEDRO ESPINAL, P.T.R.C. INC., GILBERT G. ALMONTE AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF BELKIS ALMONTE AKA BELKIS M. ALLMONTE, BERENISSE ALMONTE AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF BELKIS ALMONTE AKA BELKIS M. ALLMONTE, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF BELKIS ALMONTE AKA BELKIS M. ALLMONTE IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HU SBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT
LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 88 COLONIAL AVENUE FREEPORT, NY 11520
To the Above named Defendant: 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 Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) with in twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Belkis Almonte AKA Belkis M. Allmonte Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Catherine Rizzo of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Second day of April, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this action is to fore closure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Belkis Almonte AKA Belkis M. Allmonte (who died on December 30, 2021, a resident of the county
of Nassau, State of New York) and Cecilia Rodriguez dated the April 27, 2005, to secure the sum of $230,000.00 and recorded at Book M28818, Page 465 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on May 14, 2005. Plaintiff is also holder of a mortgage dated June 8, 2006 executed by Belkis Almonte AKA Belkis M. Allmonte and Cecilia Rodriguez to secure the sum of $77,632.00 and recorded at Book M30688, Page 499 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on July 5, 2006. Said mortgage was consolidated with the mortgage referred to at Book M28818, Page 465 by a Consolidation, Extension and Modification Agreement executed by Belkis Almonte AKA Belkis M. Allmonte and Cecilia Rodriguez dated June 8, 2006 and recorded July 5, 2006 at Book M30688, Page 523 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk to form a single lien in the amount of $305,0 00.00. Plaintiff is also holder of a mortgage dated May 4, 2007 executed by Belkis Almonte AKA Belkis M. Allmonte and Cecilia Rodriguez to secure the sum of $22,000.00 and recorded at Book M31907, Page 213 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on May 18, 2007. Said mortgage was consolidated with the mortgage referred to at Book M30688, Page 523 by a Consolidation, Extension and Modification Agreement executed by Belkis Almonte AKA Belkis M. Allmonte and Cecilia Rodriguez dated May 4, 2007 and recorded May 18, 2007 at Book M31907, Page 238 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk to form a single lien in the amount of $327,000.00. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 24, 2010 and recorded on October 6, 2010, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book M35205, Page 689. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 17, 2013 and recorded on November 22, 2013, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at
Book M39341, Page 670. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 1, 2015 and recorded on January 12, 2016, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2016-00003751. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed June 10, 2016 and recorded on July 18, 2016, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2016-69322. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 9, 2017 and recorded on June 20, 2017, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2017-00060944. The property in question is described as follows: 88 COLONIAL AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and f iling 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: April 8, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221
The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 85324 152931
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that a license number (pending) for beer liquor and wine has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer liquor and wine at retail in a restaurant under the Al;cohol Beverage Control Law at 365 w Sunrise Hwy Freeport, county of Nassau, for on premise consumption. BGF Bobby Q’s Inc D/B/A Bobby Q’s Jus Like Mama’s 153017
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to §128-5 of the Freeport Village Code, a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport will be held to conduct public hearings on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 5:30 P.M., in the Municipal Building, Board of Trustees Conference Room, 46 North Ocean Avenue, 2nd Floor, Freeport, NY adjacent to the Mayor’s Office.
Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk Issue Date: April 24, 2025 153131
LEGAL NOTICE
Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to collocate wireless communications antennas at a top height of 39 feet on a 39-foot building at the approx. vicinity of 123 Fulton Street, Farmingdale, Nassau County, NY 11735. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Benjamin Allen, b.allen@trileaf.com, phone: 678-653-8673, 1395 South Marietta Parkway, Building 400, Suite 209, Marietta, GA 30067. 153129
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following Boards, Commissions, and Committees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport are scheduled to meet each month in the following locations: Board of Ethics - Meets as required
24,
situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 36, Block 468-02 and Lot 48. Approximate amount of judgment is $485,221.39 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #602216/2019. Cash will not be accepted.
Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 153123
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL DISTRICT ELECTION, BUDGET HEARING AND VOTE OF BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU STATE OF NEW YORK, TO BE HELD ON May 20, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the budget hearing of the qualified voters of the Baldwin Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Cafeteria A of Baldwin High School, Ethel T. Kloberg Drive, Baldwin, New York in said School District for the transaction of such business as is authorized by law including the following purposes:
1. Presentation and discussion of the budget for the operation of the district schools for the school year beginning July 1, 2025.
2. Presentation and discussion of the budget for operation of the Baldwin Public Library for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025.
3. Transactions of such other business as is authorized by law.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the vote upon the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expenditures for the school year 20252026, the library appropriation, and on all propositions duly filed with the Board of Education, to fill two vacancies for Trustees on the Board of Education for a term commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2028, and to fill one vacancy on the Board of Trustees of the Baldwin Public Library for a term commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring
June 30, 2030, shall be held in the gymnasium of Baldwin High School
Ethel T. Kloberg Drive, East of Grand Avenue, Baldwin, New York, in said School District on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00AM and 9:00PM.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the following propositions will be presented to the voters at the May 20, 2025, vote:
PROPOSITION NO.
1: SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET
RESOLVED, that the proposed Budget of the Baldwin Union Free School District of the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, for the fiscal year 2025-2026 in the amount of $172, 880, 888 be adopted, and the amount be raised by tax upon the taxable property of the School District after first deducting the monies available from State Aid and other sources.
PROPOSITION NO.
2: PUBLIC LIBRARY BUDGET
RESOLVED, that the proposed Budget of the Baldwin Public Library for the fiscal year 20252026 in the amount of $6,393,961 be adopted, and the amount be raised by tax upon the taxable property of the School District after first deducting the monies available from State Aid and other sources.
PROPOSITION NO.
3: USAGE OF FUNDS FROM TECHNOLOGY RESERVE 2022
RESOLVED that the Board of Education shall present to the qualified voters of the Baldwin Union Free School District at the annual meeting to be held on May 20, 2025 the following proposition in substantially the following form: SHALL the Board of Education of the Baldwin Union Free School District be authorized to expend an amount not to exceed $450,000 from the Technology Reserve fund established on May 17, 2022 for the purpose of performing the following projects:
(a) New Chromebooks for 3rd grade students; (b) Stylus pens for 3rd grade students; and (c) MedVision (medical mannequins), all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.
PROPOSITION NO. 4: USAGE OF FUNDS FROM
CAPITAL RESERVE #4, ESTABLISHED MAY 21, 2019, AND FROM CAPITAL RESERVE #5, KNOWN AS “CAPITAL-2023”, ESTABLISHED ON MAY 16, 2023
RESOLVED that the Board of Education shall present to the qualified voters of the Baldwin Union Free School District at the annual meeting to be held on May 20, 2025 the following proposition in substantially the following form: SHALL the Board of Education of the Baldwin Union Free School District be authorized to expend a total of $18,100,000.00 from the following: (1) $10,647,867.94 from Capital Reserve Fund #4, established on May 21, 2019, together with all accrued interest thereon, representing all remaining monies from Capital Reserve Fund #4 and (2) an amount not to exceed $7,452,132.06 from Capital Reserve Fund #5, known as “Capital-2023”, established on May 16, 2023, for the purpose of performing the following projects: (a) Baldwin High School Career Tech Ed Center Addition (CTE); (b) Baldwin High School existing auditorium renovations; (c) Baldwin Middle School new turf soccer field (west of track); (d) Lenox Elementary School, A/C electrical upgrades; (e) Meadow Elementary School, A/C electrical upgrades, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.
PROPOSITION #5 TO AUTHORIZE A PROPOSITION TO ESTABLISH CAPITAL RESERVE FUND #6, KNOWN AS THE “CAPITAL-2025” RESERVE FUND RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Baldwin Union Free School District hereby authorizes the following proposition to be placed on the ballot of the May 20, 2025 annual vote: SHALL the Board of Education, pursuant to Education Law section 3651, be authorized to establish a Capital Reserve Fund #6, known as the “Capital - 2025” Reserve Fund for the purpose of performing the District-Wide capital improvements: instructional and non-instructional space improvements/ renovations/upgrades, (including but not
limited to classroom improvements/ renovations/upgrades and/or additions to existing facilities), auditorium renovations, gymnasium renovations, cafeteria renovations, library/multi media center renovations, exterior renovations/ reconstruction, computer/ technology upgrades, security system upgrades, plumbing improvements/ renovations/upgrades, electrical improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, HVAC improvements/ renovations/upgrades, energy efficiency improvements/ renovation/upgrades, including the installation of solar power, improvements/ renovations/upgrades, renovations required for compliance with ADA requirements, vocational and career preparation renovations, portable classroom replacement and/or purchase, roof/gutter/ leader replacement, window replacement, masonry/concrete replacement, interior and exterior door/entry ways replacement, toilet room renovations, lighting upgrades, floor replacement, wall replacement, boiler replacements, elevators, carpentry renovations, purchase of buildings/ land, site renovations/ reconstruction, press box/dugout/ field house improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, bleacher improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, upgrades of signs, athletic field renovations/ reconstruction, playground renovations, lockers/locker room renovations, public address/clock system replacement, security system upgrades, sound system upgrades, telephone system upgrades, hazardous material remediation, storage space renovations, furnishings and equipment, including the purchase of vehicles, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental cost related thereto. The maximum amount of the aforesaid Capital Reserve Fund shall be $25,000,000.00 plus investment income. The probable term is to be 5 years; the funds are to be transferred from surplus monies, if any, remaining in the general fund including a sum not to exceed $10,000,000.00 from
the 2024-2025 budget and thereafter in an annual amount of not more than $10,000,000.00 for each remaining year of the probable term.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the voting shall be on voting machines as provided by the Education Law and the polls will remain open from 7:00AM until 9:00PM and as much longer as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballots. The District Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to have the necessary ballot labels printed for said voting machines in the form corresponding as nearly as may be with the requirements of the Education Law. The condensed form of the budget proposition and the text of all other propositions to appear on the voting machine and a detailed statement in writing of the amount of money which will be required for the school year 2025-2026 for school purposes, specifying the purposes and the amount for each will be prepared and copies thereof will be made available, upon request, to any taxpayer in the district at each school building in the district in which school is maintained between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:00PM during the period of fourteen days immediately preceding said election of May 20, 2025, excluding Saturday, Sunday, and holidays, and at such annual election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election shall be held in accordance with the Rules for the Conduct of Meetings and Elections adopted by the Board of Education.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the nominations for the office of members of the Board of Education unless otherwise provided by law, shall be made by petition subscribed by at least 37 qualified voters of the District, and nominations for office of member of the Library Board, unless otherwise provided by law, shall be made by petition subscribed by at least 37 qualified voters of the District, filed in the office of the Clerk of the District between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and by no later than 5:00 PM on April 21, 2025. Such petition shall state the name and residence of the candidates. Candidates
receiving the greatest number of votes shall be considered elected to their respective offices. Where terms are of different length, the candidate receiving the highest vote shall be elected to the longest term. A nomination may be rejected by the Board of Education if the candidate is ineligible for the office or declares his unwillingness to serve.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that any proposition or question to be placed upon the voting machines shall be submitted in writing by petition subscribed by at least 93 qualified voters of the District and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the District between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:00PM and by no later than 5:00 PM on April 21, 2025 , except that this rule shall not apply to those questions or propositions which are required to be stated in the published or posted notice of the meeting or to those propositions or questions which the Board of Education has authority by law to present at any annual or special meeting of the District. Registration shall also be permitted in the office of the District Clerk at Baldwin’s Administration building during the hours of enrollment of children for a school term and also from 8:00AM to 3:00PM on any school day at any of the District schools not later than five days preceding the school meeting and election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the district who shall personally present themselves for registration; and (2) all previously qualified voters of the District who shall have been previously registered for any Annual or Special District Meeting or election held or conducted at any time within four (4) years (2021-2024) prior to preparation of the said register; and (3) voters permanently registered with the Board of Election of the County of Nassau.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Board of Registration will further meet during the hours of voting at the Annual District Election on May 20, 2025, for the purpose of preparing a register for District meetings
or elections to be held subsequent to May 20, 2025. Said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the District who shall present themselves personally for registration, and (2) all qualified voters of the District who shall have been previously registered for any annual or special District meeting or election held or conducted at any time within four calendar years (2021-2024) prior to the preparation of said register. The Register shall be filed in the Office of the District Clerk of the school district at the Administration Building, Hastings Street, Baldwin, New York where it shall be open for inspection by any qualified voter between the hours of 9:00AM and 2:00PM on each of the five days prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, and on Saturday by appointment only.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an application for absentee and early mail ballots for the school district election may be applied for at the office of the Clerk. A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots shall have been issued will be available in the office of the Clerk on each of the five days prior to the day of the election, except Sunday, and on Saturday by appointment only. Applications for absentee ballots and early mail must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No absentee or early mail ballot shall be canvassed unless it is received in the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 PM, prevailing time, on the date of the election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that military voters who are not currently registered
may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that this Board shall convene a special meeting thereof within twenty-four hours after the filing with the District Clerk of a written report of the results of the ballot, to meet at the Baldwin Senior High School for the purpose of examining and tabulating said reports of the result of the ballot and declaring the result of the ballot; that the Board hereby designates itself to be a set of poll clerks to cast and canvass ballots pursuant to Education Law 2019-a, subdivision 2b at said special meeting of the Board. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part; and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices, as well as on the District’s website. Dated: April 9th, 2025
Baldwin, NY BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
Jacqueline Torres, District Clerk 152621
LEGAL NOTICE
AVISO DE LA ELECCIÓN ANUAL DEL DISTRITO, AUDIENCIA PRESUPUESTARIA Y VOTACIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE BALDWIN UNION CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, ESTADO DE NUEVA YORK, QUE SE CELEBRARÁ EL 20 de mayo de 2025
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que la audiencia presupuestaria de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Baldwin Union, Ciudad de Hempstead, Condado de Nassau, se llevará a cabo el miércoles 7 de mayo de 2025 en la Cafetería A de la Escuela
Secundaria Baldwin, Ethel T. Kloberg Drive, Baldwin, Nueva York en dicho Distrito Escolar para la transacción de dichos negocios autorizados por la ley, incluidos los siguientes propósitos:
1. Presentación y discusión del presupuesto para el funcionamiento de las escuelas del distrito para el año escolar que comienza el 1 de julio de 2025.
2. Presentación y discusión del presupuesto para la operación de la Biblioteca Pública Baldwin para el año fiscal que comienza el 1 de julio de 2025.
3.Transacciones de cualquier otro negocio que esté autorizado por la ley.
TENGA EN CUENTA que la votación sobre la asignación de los fondos necesarios para cumplir con los gastos necesarios para el año escolar 20252026, la asignación de la biblioteca y todas las proposiciones debidamente presentadas ante la Junta de Educación, para llenar dos vacantes para Fideicomisarios en la Junta de Educación por un período que comienza el 1 de julio de 2025 y expira el 30 de junio, 2028, y para llenar una vacante en la Junta de Fideicomisarios de la Biblioteca Pública de Baldwin por un período que comienza
el 1 de julio de 2025 y expira el 30 de junio de 2030, se llevará a cabo en el gimnasio de la Escuela Secundaria
Baldwin Ethel T. Kloberg Drive, East of Grand Avenue, Baldwin, Nueva York, en dicho Distrito Escolar el martes 20 de mayo, 2025, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m. TENGA EN CUENTA que las siguientes proposiciones se presentarán a los votantes en la votación del 20 de mayo de 2025:
PROPOSICIÓN NO. 1: PRESUPUESTO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR SE RESUELVE, que el presupuesto propuesto del Distrito Escolar Libre de Baldwin Union de la ciudad de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, estado de Nueva York, para el año fiscal 20252026 por la cantidad de $172, 880, 888 se adoptarán, y la cantidad se incrementará mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito Escolar después de deducir primero el dinero disponible de la Ayuda Estatal y otras fuentes.
PROPOSICIÓN NO. 2: PRESUPUESTO DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA
SE RESUELVE, que se adopte el presupuesto propuesto de la Biblioteca Pública de Baldwin para el año fiscal 2025-2026 por un monto de $ 6,393,961, y que el monto se aumente mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito Escolar después de deducir primero el dinero disponible de la Ayuda Estatal y otras fuentes.
PROPOSICIÓN Nº 3: USO DE FONDOS DE RESERVA TECNOLÓGICA 2022
SE RESUELVE que la Junta de Educación presentará a los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Baldwin Union en la reunión anual que se llevará a cabo el 20 de mayo de 2025 la siguiente proposición sustancialmente de la siguiente forma: ¿Se autorizará a la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Baldwin Union a gastar una cantidad que no exceda los $450,000 del fondo de Reserva Tecnológica establecido el 17 de mayo? 2022 con el propósito de realizar los siguientes proyectos: (a) Nuevos Chromebooks para estudiantes de 3er grado; (b) Lápices ópticos para estudiantes de 3er grado; y (c) MedVision
(maniquíes médicos), todo lo anterior incluye toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costos incidentales relacionados con los mismos.
PROPOSICIÓN NO. 4:
USO DE FONDOS DE LA RESERVA DE CAPITAL #4, ESTABLECIDA EL 21 DE MAYO DE 2019, Y DE LA RESERVA DE CAPITAL #5, CONOCIDA COMO “CAPITAL-2023”, ESTABLECIDA EL 16 DE MAYO DE 2023 SE RESUELVE que la Junta de Educación presentará a los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Baldwin Union en la reunión anual que se llevará a cabo el 20 de mayo de 2025 la siguiente proposición sustancialmente de la siguiente forma: ¿Se autorizará a la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Baldwin Union a gastar un total de $18,100,000.00 de lo siguiente: (1) $10,647,867.94 del Fondo de Reserva de Capital # 4, establecido el 21 de mayo de 2019, junto con todos los intereses acumulados sobre el mismo, que representan todo el dinero restante del Fondo de Reserva de Capital # 4 y (2) una cantidad que no exceda los $ 7,452,132.06 del Fondo de Reserva de Capital # 5, conocido como “Capital-2023”, establecido el 16 de mayo de 2023, con el propósito de realizar los siguientes proyectos: (a) Baldwin High School Career Tech Ed Center (CTE); (b) Renovaciones del auditorio existente de la Escuela Secundaria Baldwin; (c) Nuevo campo de fútbol de césped de la Escuela Intermedia Baldwin (al oeste de la pista); (d) Escuela Primaria Lenox, mejoras eléctricas de aire acondicionado; (e) Escuela Primaria Meadow, actualizaciones eléctricas de aire acondicionado, todo lo anterior incluye toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costos incidentales relacionados con los mismos.
PROPOSICIÓN #5
PARA AUTORIZAR UNA PROPUESTA PARA ESTABLECER EL FONDO DE RESERVA DE CAPITAL #6, CONOCIDO COMO EL FONDO DE RESERVA “CAPITAL-2025” SE RESUELVE, que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de
Baldwin Union autoriza por la presente que la siguiente proposición se coloque en la boleta electoral anual del 20 de mayo de 2025: ¿DEBERÍA la Junta de Educación, de conformidad con la sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación, estar autorizada a establecer un Fondo de Reserva de Capital # 6, conocido como el Fondo de Reserva “Capital - 2025” con el propósito de realizar las mejoras de capital en todo el Distrito: mejoras/renovaciones/ actualizaciones de espacios educativos y no educativos (incluidas, entre otras, mejoras/renovaciones/ actualizaciones de aulas y/o adiciones a las instalaciones existentes), renovaciones de auditorios, renovaciones de gimnasios, renovaciones de cafeterías, renovaciones de bibliotecas/ centros multimedia, renovaciones/ reconstrucciones exteriores, actualizaciones de computadoras/ tecnología, actualizaciones de sistemas de seguridad, mejoras/renovaciones/ actualizaciones de plomería, mejoras/ renovaciones/ actualizaciones eléctricas, mejoras/ renovaciones/ actualizaciones de HVAC, mejoras de eficiencia energética / renovación/ actualizaciones, incluida la instalación de energía solar, mejoras/renovaciones/ actualizaciones, renovaciones requeridas para cumplir con los requisitos de la ADA, renovaciones vocacionales y de preparación profesional, reemplazo y/o compra de aulas portátiles, reemplazo de techo/ canalón/líder, reemplazo de ventanas, reemplazo de mampostería/ concreto, reemplazo de puertas/entradas interiores y exteriores, renovaciones de baños, mejoras de iluminación, reemplazo de pisos, reemplazo de paredes, reemplazos de calderas, ascensores, renovaciones de carpintería, compra de edificios/terrenos, renovaciones/ reconstrucción de sitios, caja de prensa/ dugout/casa de campo mejoras/renovaciones/ mejoras, mejoras/ renovaciones/mejoras de gradas, mejoras de letreros, renovaciones/
reconstrucción de campos deportivos, renovaciones de parques infantiles, renovaciones de casilleros/vestuarios, reemplazo del sistema de megafonía/reloj, actualizaciones del sistema de seguridad, actualizaciones del sistema de sonido, actualizaciones del sistema telefónico, remediación de materiales peligrosos, renovaciones de espacios de almacenamiento, mobiliario y equipo, incluida la compra de vehículos, todo lo anterior incluye toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costos incidentales relacionados con los mismos. El monto máximo del mencionado Fondo de Reserva de Capital será de $25,000,000.00 más ingresos de inversión. El plazo probable será de 5 años; el Los fondos se transferirán del dinero excedente, si lo hubiere, que permanezca en el fondo general, incluida una suma que no exceda los $ 10,000,000.00 del presupuesto 2024-2025 y, posteriormente, en un monto anual de no más de $ 10,000,000.00 por cada año restante del plazo probable. TENGA EN CUENTA que la votación se realizará en máquinas de votación según lo dispuesto por la Ley de Educación y las urnas permanecerán abiertas desde las 7:00 a.m. hasta las 9:00 p.m. y tanto tiempo como sea necesario para permitir que los votantes presentes en ese momento emitan sus votos. Por la presente, se autoriza y ordena al Secretario del Distrito que imprima las etiquetas de boleta necesarias para dichas máquinas de votación en la forma que corresponda lo más cerca posible de los requisitos de la Ley de Educación. Se preparará la forma condensada de la propuesta presupuestaria y el texto de todas las demás proposiciones que aparecerán en la máquina de votación y una declaración detallada por escrito de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año escolar 2025-2026 para fines escolares, especificando los propósitos y la cantidad para cada uno, y se pondrán a disposición copias de las mismas. previa solicitud, a cualquier contribuyente del distrito en cada
edificio escolar del distrito en el que se mantenga la escuela entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. durante el período de catorce días inmediatamente anterior a dicha elección del 20 de mayo de 2025, excluyendo sábados, domingos y días festivos, y en dicha elección anual.
TENGA EN CUENTA que la elección se llevará a cabo de acuerdo con las Reglas para la Realización de Reuniones y Elecciones adoptadas por la Junta de Educación.
TENGA EN CUENTA que las nominaciones para el cargo de miembros de la Junta de Educación, a menos que la ley disponga lo contrario, se harán mediante petición suscrita por al menos 37 votantes calificados del Distrito, y las nominaciones para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de la Biblioteca, a menos que la ley disponga lo contrario, se harán mediante petición suscrita por al menos 37 votantes calificados del Distrito, presentada en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m . o, a más tardar, las 5:00 p. m. del 21 de abril de 2025. En dicha petición se indicará el nombre y residencia de los candidatos. Los candidatos que obtengan el mayor número de votos se considerarán elegidos para sus respectivos cargos. Cuando los mandatos sean de diferente duración, el candidato que obtenga la votación más alta será elegido para el mandato más largo. Una nominación puede ser rechazada por la Junta de Educación si el candidato no es elegible para el cargo o declara su falta de voluntad para servir. TENGA EN CUENTA que cualquier proposición o pregunta que se coloque en las máquinas de votación deberá presentarse por escrito mediante una petición suscrita por al menos 93 votantes calificados del Distrito y presentada en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m. o, a más tardar, las 5:00 p. m. del 21 de abril de 2025, excepto que esta regla no se aplicará a aquellas preguntas o proposiciones que se requieran indicar en el aviso publicado o publicado de la reunión o a aquellas proposiciones o preguntas que el Consejo de Educación tenga autoridad por ley para presentar en cualquier reunión anual o especial del Distrito. También se permitirá la inscripción en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el edificio de Administración de Baldwin durante las horas de inscripción de los niños para un período escolar y también de 8:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. en cualquier día escolar en cualquiera de las escuelas del Distrito a más tardar cinco días antes de la reunión escolar y la elección.
TENGA EN CUENTA que el registro deberá incluir (1) todos los los electores del distrito que se presentarán personalmente para el registro; y (2) todos los votantes previamente calificados del Distrito que se hayan registrado previamente para cualquier Reunión Anual o Especial del Distrito o elección celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro (4) años (2021-2024) anteriores a la preparación de dicho registro; y (3) votantes registrados permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau. TENGA EN CUENTA que la Junta de Registro se reunirá nuevamente durante las horas de votación en la Elección Anual del Distrito el 20 de mayo de 2025, con el fin de preparar un registro para las reuniones o elecciones del Distrito que se llevarán a cabo después del 20 de mayo de 2025. Dicho registro incluirá (1) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que se presentarán personalmente para el registro, y (2) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que deberán haber sido previamente registrados para cualquier evento anual o especial Reunión o elección distrital celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro años calendario (2021-2024) antes de la preparación de dicho registro. El Registro se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito escolar en el Edificio de Administración, Hastings Street, Baldwin, Nueva York, donde estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 2:00 p.m. en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores al día establecido para la elección. excepto los domingos, y los sábados solo con cita previa.
TENGA EN CUENTA que una solicitud de boletas de voto en ausencia y por correo anticipado para las elecciones del distrito escolar se puede solicitar en la oficina del Secretario. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se les habrán emitido boletas de voto en ausencia y por correo anticipado estará disponible en la oficina del Secretario en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores al día de la elección, excepto el domingo, y el sábado solo con cita previa. Las solicitudes de boletas de voto ausente y correo anticipado deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Además, dicha solicitud debe ser recibida por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete días antes de la elección si la boleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la boleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una boleta de voto en ausencia o por correo anticipado, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la boleta a la dirección establecida en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. No se escrutará ninguna boleta electoral por ausencia ni por correo anticipado a menos que se reciba en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito antes de las 5:00 p. m. a más tardar, hora en vigor, en la fecha de la elección.
TENGA EN CUENTA que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del distrito escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar su preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión de fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de boletas militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 24 de abril de 2025. No se realizará el
24,
escrutinio de ninguna boleta militar a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o muestre un endoso fechado de recepción por otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de las elecciones y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha asociada a no más tarde del día antes de la elección.
POR FAVOR, TENGA EN CUENTA que esta Junta convocará una reunión especial de la misma dentro de las veinticuatro horas posteriores a la presentación ante el Secretario del Distrito de un informe escrito de los resultados de la votación, para reunirse en la Escuela Secundaria Superior Baldwin con el propósito de examinar y tabular dichos informes del resultado de la votación y declarar el resultado de la votación; que la Junta por la presente se designa a sí misma como un conjunto de secretarios electorales para emitir y escrutar votos de conformidad con la Ley de Educación 2019-a, subdivisión 2b en dicha reunión especial de la Junta.
TENGA EN CUENTA que un Informe de Exención del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria preparado de acuerdo con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria se adjuntará a cualquier presupuesto tentativo / preliminar, así como al presupuesto final adoptado del que formará parte; y se publicará en el Distrito tablón de anuncios para avisos públicos, así como en el sitio web del Distrito. Fecha: 9 de abril de 2025 Baldwin, Nueva York
POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN
DISTRITO ESCOLAR
LIBRE DE LA UNIÓN
BALDWIN CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
Jacqueline Torres, Secretaria del Distrito 152623
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING
FREEPORT UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Nassau County, N. Y.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Freeport Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York, shall conduct its Annual Budget Vote and Trustees Election on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The vote will be by voting machines at the designated polling places set forth below, between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. (local time).
TAKE FURTHER
NOTICE that the following matters will be submitted to the registered voters of the Freeport School District:
(1) To vote on the annual school budget as set forth in Proposition No. 1 below:
Proposition No. 1
SCHOOL BUDGET
RESOLVED that the Annual School Budget be adopted and the necessary amount be raised by a tax upon the taxable property located in Freeport Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Freeport, New York, for the School Year 2025-2026.
(2) To vote on the annual library budget as set forth in Proposition No. 2 below:
Proposition No. 2
FREEPORT MEMORIAL
LIBRARY BUDGET
RESOLVED, that the Freeport Memorial Library Budget be adopted and the necessary amount be raised by a tax upon the taxable property located in Freeport Union Free School District, Town of Hempstead, Freeport, New York, for the Freeport Memorial Library for the year 2025-2026.
(3) To vote on the expenditure of funds from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 16, 2017, as set forth in Proposition No. 3 below:
PROPOSITION #3 Capital Reserve Fund
Proposition SHALL the Board of Education of the Freeport Union Free School District be authorized to expend: $2,500,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund established on May 16th, 2017 for the purpose of performing the following projects:
Classroom Ceiling Tiles, Flooring & Lighting Replacements - Districtwide; Bathroom Renovations - Districtwide. All of the foregoing to include all labor, materials,
equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.
(4) The election of two (2) School Trustee of the Board of Education.
The term shall begin July 1, 2025 and end June 30, 2028.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Board of Registration shall be open, in accordance with the Laws of the State of New York, every school day in the Administration Building, 235 North Ocean Avenue, between the hours of 8:30 o’clock a.m. and 5:00 o’clock p.m. (local time) until Thursday, May 15, 2025, for the Annual Budget Vote and Election to be held on May 20, 2025.
In addition, the Board of Registration will be open Tuesday, April 22, 2025, and Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4:00 o’clock p.m. until 8:00 o’clock p.m. for residents to register to vote for the Annual Budget and Trustee election to be held on May 20, 2025.
Any person who is not registered with the School District or who is not registered in the General Election or who has not voted at any annual or special district meeting or election held within the last four calendar years (20202024) must register to vote on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The voting registers will be open to inspection by any qualified voter on weekdays between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. from May 15, 2025 to May 19, 2025, excluding Sunday, May 18, 2025, and between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. noon on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the Office of the District Clerk; and at each polling place on election day.
Absentee and early mail ballots will be available for the election of School Board Members and the Budget Vote.
Applications for absentee and early mail ballots are available in the Office of the District Clerk at the Freeport Public School Administration Building, 235 North Ocean Avenue, in Freeport, NY 11520. Applications for absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day
before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. Absentee and early mail ballots will be accepted in the Office of the Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 P.M. on the day of the vote; any ballot received after that time will not be counted.
A listing of all people to whom absentee and early mail ballots were issued will be available in the District Clerk’s Office during regular office hours until the day before the vote.
Candidates for the Office of School Board Trustee must be nominated by a petition signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District. The petition shall state name and residence of the candidate and shall state the name and residence of each signer. Candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be considered elected to their respective offices. Where terms are of different length, the candidate receiving the highest vote shall be elected to the longest term. However, a nomination may be rejected by the Board of Education if the candidate is ineligible for the office or declares his unwillingness to serve. Petitions shall be filed between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. no later than Monday, April 21, 2025 at the Office of the District Clerk.
A statement of the amount of money which will be required for the School Year 20252026 will be available to the taxpayers at any of the School District buildings between 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. not later than fourteen (14) days before the vote, excepting Saturdays and Sundays or holidays, and at such annual election.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part, and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s) maintained for public
notices, as well as on the District’s website.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a lottery shall take place on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. for the purpose of determining candidate placement on the ballot should additional candidates file nominating petitions.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a budget hearing will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:30 P.M. in the Caroline G. Atkinson School for the purpose of discussing the expenditures of funds and budgeting thereof.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a proposition in writing by petition of least forty-one (41) signatures of qualified voters of the District is required to place a proposition on the ballot. The petition must be filed in the Office of the District Clerk on or before 5:00 P.M. (local time) Monday, April 21, 2025. Petitions for propositions which are required by law to be included in the notice of the annual meeting must be submitted no later than 5:00 P.M. on or before Friday, March 21, 2025. The Board of Education reserves the right to edit or amend any proposition without changing the intent thereof.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 P.M. on April 25, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another
agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 P.M. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election shall be held in accordance with the Rules for the Election of School Board Members adopted by the Board of Education.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR VOTING
1. A person shall be a citizen of the United States.
2. Eighteen or more years of age.
3. A resident of the District for a period of thirty days or more preceding the election at which he or she offers to vote.
4. Must be registered to vote.
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the school election districts within the school district are as follows:
DISTRICT N-l
The Atkinson School Voting District is contained in the area, which is west of North Main Street, south of the northerly School District Boundary Line, and east of Milburn Creek, and north of the Long Island Railroad.
DISTRICT N-2
The Columbus Avenue School Voting District is contained in the area which is north of the Long Island Railroad, east of North Main Street, south of the most northerly District boundary line, and west of the Meadowbrook Parkway.
DISTRICT S-3
The Bayview Avenue School Voting District is contained in the area which is south of the Long Island Railroad right of way and west of the Eastern boundary line which runs south down South Long Beach Avenue to the southern property lines of the properties on the south side of Smith Street, then west along said property lines to the easterly property lines of the properties fronting on Bayview Avenue, thence proceeding south along said property lines to the easterly property lines on Branch Avenue and then southerly along the eastern boundary lines of said properties fronting on the east side of Branch Avenue to the northern property lines of properties fronting on the north side of Lewis
Street, thence easterly along said boundary to Randall Bay. The southern boundary is the Village Line and the western boundary is the Village Line.
DISTRICT S-4
The Archer Street School Voting District is contained in the area which begins at the southerly side of the Long Island Railroad right of way where same intersects with the westerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the west side of Long Beach Avenue; thence running easterly along said right of way to the westerly boundary lines or properties fronting on the west side of Henry Street; thence southeasterly along said boundary lines to the intersection with South Main Street; thence southerly along the west side of South Main Street to the intersection with Mill Road; thence easterly along the south side of Mill Road to the intersection of Mill Road and Freeport Creek; thence southerly along Freeport Creek to the northerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the north side of East Bedell Street; thence easterly along said property lines to the Village Line also known as Freeport Creek; thence southerly along said line to the most southerly Village Line; thence westerly along said Village Line to Hudson Bay; thence north and northwesterly along Woodcleft Basin to Sportsman’s Channel; thence north along said Channel and its extension to the center line of Atlantic Avenue; thence westerly along said center line of Atlantic Avenue to the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Bayview Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the intersection of the southerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the south side of Smith Street; thence easterly along said boundary lines of properties fronting on the west side of Long Beach Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the point or place of beginning.
DISTRICT S-5
The Giblyn School Voting District is contained in the area which begins at a point where the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on Bayview Avenue intersects the center line of Atlantic Avenue running thence easterly
along said center line to the western boundary line of properties fronting on the west side of Sportsman’s Avenue; thence southerly along said lines to the Sportsman’s Channel; thence southerly along said Channel to the Woodcleft Basin; thence southeasterly along said basin to easterly boundary of Village Line running along Hudson Bay; thence southerly along said boundary line to the southerly boundary of the Village Line also known as Little Swift Creek; thence westerly along said Village Line to a point where same intersects Randall Bay; thence northerly along said Bay to the intersection of the northerly boundary lines of properties fronting on the north side of Lewis Street; thence westerly along said boundary line to the easterly boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Branch Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the intersection of the east boundary lines of properties fronting on the east side of Bayview Avenue; thence northerly along said boundary lines to the point or place of beginning.
The Cleveland Avenue School Voting District (now based at the Albany Avenue Field House, 55 Albany Avenue) is contained in the area which is south of the Long Island Railroad right of way, east of the eastern boundary of District S-4, with the eastern and southern boundary being the village boundaries.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION Sunday F. Coward Benjamin Roberts President District Clerk 152708
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Q. We bought our home three years ago, and are finally ready to finish our basement to make a family room, guest bedroom and a bathroom while enclosing our laundry. Right now it’s just a big open space with a lot of columns. The ceiling is low, and we’ve had estimates to cut down the basement floor. It seems like a lot of money to do all these things at once, but we understand that we need to do it before the prices for materials, as we’ve been warned, go a lot higher. We want to know what needs to be done if we want to lower the floor, take out two columns so our recreation room is bigger, and put in a bathroom. Is there any way to save money?
A. I doubt that you’ll save money, since you are correct that prices are creeping up, but only because of the uncertainty of markets. It seems that the Canada lumber tariffs may not take affect so rapidly, because Congress — including those from both sides of the aisle — is reportedly working on bills to stop the economic strife with our neighbor to the north. But it’s anybody’s guess, right now, day to day.
Basements have always seemed so minor when compared with additions and other renovations, but there are many safety codes you should become familiar with. First, many jurisdictions disallow any sleeping room in basements. Bathrooms are allowed in most jurisdictions, but verify whether a bathing fixture, shower or tub, is allowed. Some will only allow a toilet and sink.
You also need a second means of escape from the main room, not just the staircase you already have from the first floor. You’ll need an escape window or stairwell to the outside. If you choose a window, the sill can’t be more than 44 inches above the floor, and the window must have at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening, swinging outward into a 9-squarefoot (3 feet by 3 feet minimum) area of escape well with a ladder to get out to the ground level. I’ve watched these escape wells go from $3,500 to $12,000 over the past decade.
You will also be required to insulate the basement walls, and insulation must meet the State Energy Code, because when the basement is done legally, with a permit, it must pass the energy code analysis submission to the state’s website portal.
Many people, hearing all these requirements, elect to skirt the rules by hiring someone who does what they think will pass. When you are required to legalize the work, as the responsible party (the homeowner) in the process, sometimes work has to be redone because someone missed something. There’s a reason that professionals have to be involved, and it’s best not to try to save money by avoiding the inevitable, because experience teaches that the rules don’t get simpler over time. More next week.
© 2022 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.,
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picking up right where we left off last legislative session, the Liberty Water team has been hard at work, talking with New York’s elected officials about providing meaningful rate relief to customers. Currently, roughly 30 percent of a Liberty customer’s bill is made up of taxes that provide no benefit to the water system itself. The disproportionate level of taxes paid by our customers unnecessarily drives up the cost of water. That is unjust, but thankfully, we are keeping up the momentum from last year’s efforts to eliminate the special franchise tax — which makes up a significant portion of the overall taxes paid by Liberty customers — and to provide access to the state’s drinking water infrastructure grant programs. Once again, we are
asking our customers to join us in this fight in Albany, and use the tools we have created to make their voices heard.
Stopthehiddentax.org is our advocacy website, and we encourage every Liberty New York Water customer to visit and use it to take action. Showing your support for these legislative changes is very simple. Visit the website, click on the “Take Action” tab and fill out some basic information. Once it is submitted, a letter will automatically be sent on your behalf to key decision-makers who can move this legislation forward.
Jextremely impactful, and will build on the nearly 60,000 letters that have been sent to elected officials in the past year.
As a company, we continue to make a strong case to the prominent policymakers on behalf of our customers, and the message is resonating. Legislation to eliminate the special franchise tax as well as to provide access to public grant funding has been introduced again this year.
oin us in the fight in Albany to stop the hidden taxes and lower your water bills.
Showing overwhelming support from our customers for this legislative change will move the needle. If you are one of the more than 3,600 Liberty customers who have already taken action through the site, take action again. The continuous reinforcement to our elected officials that you want to see these cost-saving efforts become a reality is
Right now it is vital that the elected officials responsible for moving the bill through the legislative process hear from our customers. For those who want to see lower water bills, going to Stopthehiddentax. org and sending a letter to state leaders takes less than five minutes, and policymakers won’t be able to ignore the voices of our 125,000 customers.
While the taxes collected do help fund local taxing jurisdictions, it is our firm belief that these taxes should not be collected through customer water bills. Making matters worse, our cus-
tomers are the only ones in Nassau County who have to pay this excessive tax. Moreover, your tax dollars are being used to fund water infrastructure projects throughout the state that Liberty is currently ineligible to access. Once again, those dollars are being collected without any benefit returning to the water system in your community. I want to be perfectly clear on one final point: The only advantage Liberty stands to gain in pursuing this legislative change is water rates that more accurately reflect the true cost of providing high-quality water service. That’s it. It is written into the proposed legislation that Liberty cannot realize any financial benefit from either bill. So what can our customers do? Visit stopthehiddentax.org, click on the “Take Action” section, and fill in your information to have a letter sent on your behalf directly to key decisionmakers. There is power in numbers, and we are hoping every one of our customers will join the fight for lower bills. Let your voice be heard!
Deborah Franco is president of Liberty Water New York.
in New York, across the country and around the world, people are experiencing a loneliness epidemic that humankind has never seen before. I believe this is due to the fact that many people are emotionally further apart, even if they think they feeler closer together and more connected with the use of technology. During the global pandemic in 2020, a spotlight shined on how lonely the human species had become in the modern era. One thing about pandemics is that they don’t actually bring down a society; they just reveal the cracks that already exist within it. Some of the cracks the pandemic highlighted were evidence of the breakdown in how people communicate and interact with one another.
In a podcast episode about adult friendships, author Mel Robbins refers to the “Great Scattering,” which, she says, occurs at different times in people’s lives. One of the first great scat-
terings she refers to takes place when people graduate from college and start their adult lives. Typically, from grade school through high school and college, many of us are in environments that offer proximity with one another, as we mark the same milestones and share life events. Once those environments shift and proximity becomes more limited, people may begin to feel lost and confused about how to find friends and interact with people who aren’t in the same cohort or phase of life.
shared activities. There I’ve met so many people from various backgrounds, and we all come together to connect, with the common goal of sharing fellowship and giving back to our community.
We’re more connected than ever, but we’re often left feeling more alone.
After these great scatterings, many adults struggle to find people who have similar interests. It’s also a challenge to find and connect with others in person rather than behind a screen. Most people have two main “places” in their lives, their homes and their workplaces. But it’s in a third place that there is the opportunity to make friends, connect and combat the feeling of loneliness.
My third place is my local Rotary club. It’s a place outside both work and home where I have the chance to meet like-minded people and engage in
This kind of third place allows you to take a break from your regular day-today life and become part of something bigger than yourself.
I know I have combated, and still combat, loneliness, but there is significantly less now that I have that third place to go and just be, and connect with others face to face. It gives me a sense of creativity and belonging, and a much-needed break from the daily stresses of life.
One’s third place should align with one’s own values. It can be anywhere that offers informal social interaction, connection and a shared activity — a community organization, a sport, a book club, volunteer work, an art class, a gardening club, a bowling league. In a third place, there’s a positive sum for all instead of a zero sum for just one.
The connections we make in these third places help build character, and connect us to our neighbors and to a
community, which reminds us that we’re not alone. I would advise anyone to take that first step, and find that place. It will make you healthier and less stressed, and remind you that you’re part of a bigger world.
For thousands of years, humans traveled together, because it was safer to be in a group than to be on their own in the wild. In today’s society, social media and smartphones give us the illusion of being more connected, yet they often leave us feeling more alone, as if in the wild. Humans eventually learned that we had to come in from the wild, and form civilizations and societies, because we were safer together.
We need contact and in-person interaction, but modern society is a technological wilderness. I believe it’s time more of us left the wilderness and found that third place, to gather and once again build community. That’s how the human race can become more civilized, as our ancestors did thousand of year ago. Becoming part of a community will be the beginning of the end of the loneliness epidemic in the modern era.
Now tell me, what will your third place be?
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every May for more than 60 years, the United States has taken the time to celebrate a crucial force in its economy: the small-business owner. This year during National Small Business Week, May 4 to 10, we will honor the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation, drives local economies, and creates opportunity in communities across the country.
It’s important to recognize that this is more than just a ceremonial observance. Small Business Week is a chance to spotlight the backbone of America’s economic engine and the importance of supporting the 33 million small businesses nationwide.
Two of their biggest backers are the federal Small Business Administration and SCORE, a nonprofit organization that has mentored more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. The SBA is a government agency that promotes and safeguards the interests of small businesses. Its mission is to support them and help them thrive, because they are such a vital component of the nation’s economy. The SBA provides access to federal contracts, counseling and financing, among other resources, to help these business grow.
Together, the SBA and SCORE will offer invaluable resources to both aspiring and established business owners at the annual National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event May 6 and 7. It will offer more than educational workshops; it will be a showcase of what’s possible when the public and private sectors collaborate.
That effort will include mentorships,
To the Editor:
practical advice and access to federal programs and tools that can help smallbusiness owners navigate the myriad challenges they face, from financing to digital marketing.
The Summit won’t just be about learning — it will also be about community. Consider the sheer number of small businesses that dot the landscape of the cities, towns and villages that Herald newspapers cover. How many do you patronize on a regular basis, from your favorite pizza place to your favorite stationery store or barbershop? Many are anchors of their neighborhoods or downtown commercial areas, making towns into home towns.
Beyond the summit, the SBA is organizing in-person events across the country, including a national awards celebration in Washington, D.C., on May 5. There will be local events as well, giving municipalities the chance to recognize their own standout entrepreneurs.
But why should National Small Business Week matter to everyone — not just business owners? Because small businesses do more than sell products and services. They create jobs. Half of all U.S. workers are employed by small and medium-sized businesses, which contribute 43 percent of the country’s GDP. Small businesses mentor future leaders. They drive innovation. They support schools, sponsor local Little League teams, and strengthen the fabric of our communities.
Almost every dollar spent at a small business goes back into the local economy. And during challenging times, as we saw during the coronavirus pandemic,
Re Peter King’s column, “Ed Kranepool was the real Mr. Met,” last week: As a graduate of James Monroe High School in the Bronx (I entered as Kranepool left), I was following even his high school career, because my dad umpired high school games as Ed chased Hank Greenberg’s (no relation) career high school home run record.
As an aside, the title of Jimmy Breslin’s book, “Can’t Anybody Here Play This Game?” was a quote by Casey Stengel as he appraised his new team.
JOEL GREENBERG Merrick
To the Editor:
Over 40 years ago, I walked with a group of concerned citizens from Inwood, Manhattan, to the Coca-
these businesses often demonstrate resilience and creativity that not only help their communities endure those times, but inspire new ways to overcome them, bringing residents closer together in the process.
Smart legislation is critical, too. State Sen. Monica Martinez, whose district covers parts of Long Island, recently introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act. This bill would provide truly small businesses — 10 employees or fewer — as well as minority-, female- or veteran-owned businesses of any size with a tax credit of up to $4,000 so they can advertise their products and services.
Supporting small businesses is a yearround responsibility, but next month’s special week will give us a chance to recommit to their success. Whether you attend the virtual summit, shop locally, or simply share the story of a small business that inspired you, there are countless ways to show support.
To learn more about this year’s events, to register for the summit, or to find a celebration near you, visit SBA. gov/NSBW. And be sure to follow along, and join the national conversation, at #SmallBusinessWeek. Throughout the year, the Herald offers small businesses webinars and training, too, and we encourage businesses to sign up for these valuable sessions.
In celebrating this special week, we celebrate the grit, vision and drive that continue to shape our nation by shaping its economy — one idea, one storefront and one hardworking entrepreneur at a time.
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the other week I had the pleasure of flying to Atlanta to celebrate the wedding of two good friends. The ceremony was beautiful, the bride and groom were happy, and nothing disturbed the sanctity of the moment.
What really struck me was how much fun I had seeing a bunch of old friends from college and high school, and how much I’d missed spending time with them.
The groom and I had gone to neighboring colleges, although we’d known each other for years through mutual friends. I spent so much time over my four years with him and the other kids at St. Andrews university that there were some days when I thought I knew their campus better than mine. Certainly I knew where all the cheapest bars in their town were. But after graduation, we all went our separate ways, as happens. While we
kept in touch sporadically, the demands of life and work — not to mention the pandemic and general global craziness — meant that I rarely, if ever, saw or talked to many people who only a few years before I’d hung out with every day. until this recent weekend, when we spent practically every waking moment getting up to our old shenanigans again. It sounds cliché to say, but it truly felt like no time had passed.
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every weekend. And for many young people, this connection is something that we’re all deeply missing.
Most people are aware that there is a loneliness epidemic in America.
fter college, we went our separate ways, but it was silly of me not to reach out before.
The most astonishing part was finding out how many of these friends now lived so close to me, with the majority of them having moved to New York City in the past few years. The last I’d heard from them, they were scattered as far apart as Los Angeles and London; little did I know that most of them now lived less than an hour away on the LIRR. I’ve already made plans to see some of them again soon.
That got me thinking about how silly it was of me not to reach out before. A simple text, “Hey, how’s it going, dude?” and I could have been seeing them
Cola plant in Tarrytown to call attention to the fact that New York state needed a bottle deposit bill. I was sore for three weeks! We achieved victory, and New York passed the Returnable Container Act, commonly known as the Bottle Bill. This landmark law has proven to be a highly effective program, reducing litter and increasing recycling rates in our state.
Albany now needs to support the Bigger Better Bottle Bill (S5684, A6543). This legislation would raise bottle and can deposits from 5 to 10 cents, which would increase redemption rates, support some of our state’s most marginalized workers and further reduce litter. The nickel deposit was enacted into law in 1983. If it were adjusted for inflation, it would be 15 cents today.
This bill could generate as much as $100 million for the state, and those funds could be used to address limits on redemption options in low-income communities and other litter and solid waste problems. It would also create more consistency by including sports drinks, iced tea, wine and spirits and more. With more beverage types included, there would be more recycling, less confusion and less pollution.
We must stop littering our Earth with one-time-use disposable bottles. This 42-yearold law needs to be updated. Here’s hoping our Legislature and governor will carry this bill through to fruition.
JoSEpH M. VARoN West Hempstead
Food
According to a study released in 2024 by the American psychiatric Association, 30 percent of adults experience feelings of loneliness at least once a week, with 10 percent admitting that they feel lonely every day.
This is even more pronounced in young people, with 30 percent of Americans ages 18 to 34 saying they are lonely every day or several times a week.
This crisis, while not as immediately obvious as a drug or disease epidemic, is just as insidious in its negative impact on the health of our country and our communities. A variety of factors are believed to contribute to this problem, from technology to being overworked to our hyper-focused sense of individualism.
While experts argue about the cause, the negative results speak for themselves. Humans are naturally social
& Water Watch, and Beyond Plastics.
To the Editor:
There is a desperate need for Nassau County politicians to establish a homeless shelter for people with pets.
There is nothing more emotionally jarring than looking into the eyes of a person who has lost everything and, in order to be admitted to a shelter, must surrender a beloved lifelong companion to an animal rescue — or continue to live on the streets — because Nassau County has no place for the two of them to go.
And it’s equally soul-wrenching to sit with a newly surrendered homeless animal, confused and scared, and console them as they get one last glimpse of the best friend they adored unconditionally.
Last month, the Safe Center of Long Island, in Bethpage, closed. Isn’t there a space like this that can be used as shelter for both the homeless and their pets?
politicians, for decades you have been telling homeless people what they need, instead of asking them. They have told me through their tears, and their animal friends by their despair. Will you act, or continue to look away from the truly voiceless, who in your campaign speeches you profess you will be a champion for.
DANA
FuCHS Long Beach
Dana Fuchs works at an animal rescue facility.
animals, and when we are unable to socialize, for whatever reason — from prisoners in solitary confinement to teenage shut-ins who spend all of their time online — the effects of being separated from others take a serious mental and physical toll on our health.
Studies have compared the impact of loneliness on our bodies to the effects of smoking 15 cigarettes, and concluded that it leads to higher rates of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Loneliness literally kills us.
on the flip side, the desire for companionship can also lead people to seek connection and validation from unhealthy sources, such as political extremist groups, criminal organizations, and even drugs.
That’s why, now more than ever, it’s important to reach out. Shoot a text to your buddy from high school or call your friend from your sports team in college. Sometimes even a short conversation catching up is all you need to remind yourself how many friends you have, and how much they mean to you.
Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? wsheeline@liherald.com.
AFFORDABILITY IS THE TOP PRIORITY FOR NEW YORKERS, WHO ARE ALREADY SUFFERING FROM HIGH COSTS. RADICAL ACTIVISTS ARE PUSHING A LAW THAT WILL SEND GROCERY PRICES EVEN HIGHER AND MAKE NEW YORK LESS AFFORDABLE!
X X X
The average family of four will pay $456 to $732 more per year for groceries.
It'll be harder to buy everyday products like cheese, hot dogs, bread, frozen veggies, and items for school lunches by banning some packaging.
Small businesses that make up the backbone of our communities will be hurt.
Join your neighbors and businesses across New York and Tell Senator Bynoe and Assemblymembers Burroughs and Griffin: