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Derrick Dingle/Herald

Co-organizers erica phillips and Samantha Vongerichten addressed the audience during Roosevelt High School’s tedx event.

Roosevelt H.S. hosts first ‘transformative’ TEDx event

By SEAN KENNEDY Correspondent

Some of the brightest minds and most articulate voices in the Roosevelt school district community were featured at Roosevelt High School’s first-ever TEDx event last week, offering their knowledge, insight and perspective to a small crowd in the school auditorium.

TEDx events are associated with the nonprofit media organization Technology, Entertainment, Design, or TED, known for its series of informative and inspirational talks by experts in a wide range of fields. The TEDx program helps communities pro-

duce TED-style events at the local level.

The remarks of the six featured speakers at Roosevelt High on April 30 shared the theme “Transforming the Narrative: How Impactful Moments Shape Communities” — inspired by a motto used throughout the Roosevelt school district this year: “Together We Transform.”

“Tonight is an embodiment of transformation,” the high school’s principal, Keith Saunders Sr., told the attendees. “We have six speakers who have been preparing for this evening, to show the transformation of this community, and of this building.”

The on-stage participants included two

Continued on page 3

Freeport Pride gears up for summer event

By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com

Local advocacy group Freeport Pride will host its first Harbor Social and Summer Kick-Off on Freeport’s waterfront May 30, promising to be an evening of connection, celebration and community visibility.

The Halfway Down restaurant, at 153 Woodcleft Ave., will serve as the center for the event, which will start at 5 p.m. and then spread out across adjacent locations.

We all need moments of joy, especially now.

SARAh

Freeport Pride was established this year to create an additional space for gathering and engagement within the wide variety of Pride celebrations across Long Island. Organizers explained that the Harbor Social is meant to complement and support the many longstanding Pride efforts that already serve Freeport and other Long Island communities.

summer atmosphere reflective of Freeport’s coastal character. The evening is designed to be welcoming, festive and accessible. Prior to the evening’s performances, attendees will be able to visit a Community Resource Hub, created by Freeport Pride that offers information about a diverse selection of support services and community programs.

DuFFY Community engagement coordinator, Freeport Pride

The event also is intended to serve as a fundraiser, with all proceeds going to select Pride-related organizations across Long Island and youth empowerment groups that promote anti-bullying initiatives. Further details on possible fees and funds will be announced closer to the event’s date.

The nautical-inspired event will feature a social hour, live performances and a vibrant

Joseph Smith and Jose Cuevas, who co-founded Freeport Pride, stated that their organization “is about celebrating community in a way that feels authentic to Freeport and open to all.”

“We’re honored to contribContinued on page 5

BELMONT PARK VILLAGE

STEPS FROM UBS ARENA

Six students and staff take the TEDx stage

current Roosevelt students, a former Roosevelt High student and three educators or administrators.

One of them was business teacher Damascus Lee, who was diagnosed with cancer in late 2024. Once headed for a career on Wall Street, Lee instead found his passion in teaching and coaching football. He started teaching at the high school last year, after beginning the treatment process, and soon found his calling.

“When I started teaching, that’s when everything changed,” Lee said. “I immediately started to have the time of my absolute life getting to the building, laughing and joking with my kids. I started to feel interactions, and I started to love what I was doing.”

Other speakers included more familiar faces in the district, like Barbara Solomon, who worked there for 36 years, including 15 years as principal of Centennial Avenue Elementary. Solomon spoke of the necessity for kindness, especially in schools.

“Kindness must come from a place of compassion and empathy to foster a school climate of belonging,” she said. “Kindness must come from a place of peace to build trust, and reduce conflict to create a school culture. The richest gift that you can give someone is the gift of kindness.”

Jasmin Ferman, a member of Roosevelt High’s class of 2025, spoke of her own transformation as she became the first in her family to attend college.

“Being a first-generation student allowed me to have struggles, but it would also allow for beauty in the process of what it meant to redefine myself, and redefine what being a first-generation student is,” Ferman said. “There is a beauty to being a first-generation student — it isn’t as much a label, but instead something to be proud of.”

The speakers also included current Roosevelt High students Carla Cruz, a senior, and Stacey Borgelin, a junior, each of whom told deeply personal sto-

roosevelt High School junior Stacey Borgelin was one of the featured tedx speakers.

ries about their own identities and finding their true selves. And district social worker Timara Manns discussed the importance of mental health, especially in a school community.

“Maybe the lesson isn’t that we need to teach students how to be strong,” Manns said. “Maybe it’s that we need to be learning from them, because they’re already showing us what strength really looks like. We just have to be willing to see it.”

The event organizers, Roosevelt High teachers Samantha VonGerichten, of Roosevelt, and Erica Phillips, of Freeport, said they hoped the event would serve as a starting point for an annual tradition at the school.

“We’re hoping for many of these in the future, to help spark conversations,” VonGerichten said. “Our community has so much potential, and so many diverse aspects, and we have to get the conversation flowing.”

roosevelt High School principal Keith d Saunders said the tedx event featured the district’s theme of transformation.

Continued from page 1

Jasmin ferman, a member of roosevelt High School’s class of 2025, was one of six featured speakers at the school’s first-ever tedx event.

Derrick Dingle/Herald photos

roosevelt High School hosted what organizers said they hope will be the first of many tedx events on april 30.

roosevelt High School senior Carla Cruz was the second current student to have a presentation during the tedx event.

Crime watCh

Driving intoxiCateD

On April 26, Freeport Police officers arrested a subject who was found to be operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. The subject was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for arrest processing.

LarCeny

On April 23, at about 7:10 a.m., Nassau County Police officers arrested Roosevelt resident Ira Walton, 64, for allegedly shoplifting at a Walgreens in Uniondale.

port Police Headquarters for arrest processing.

On April 27, Freeport Police officers arrested a subject who was found to have removed property from a local business without authority to do so. The subject had been given a one year trespass notice previously. The subject was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for arrest processing.

Lost ProPerty

On April 24, Freeport Police officers arrested a subject who was found to have removed property from a local business without authority to do so. The subject was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for arrest processing.

On April 26, Freeport Police officers arrested a subject who was found to have removed property from a local business without authority to do so. The subject was transported to Free-

On April 27, a report was taken by Freeport Police officers for a person who lost their month supply of prescribed medication.

FrauD

On April 21, Freeport Police officers secured a report for an unknown person who posed as a Microsoft employee to fraudulently remove a large sum of money from another person without authority to do so. No arrest was made.

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.

news brieF

Ettinger Law Firm Well-Being Tips

Ettinger Law Firm promotes the well-being of our clients as well as the public at large. Here are some thoughts to help ease your day.

“All life is an experiment and the more experiments the better”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Set peace of mind as your highest goal, and organize your life around it”

– Brian Tracy

“Accept what is. All pain comes from resistance” – Zen saying

“Holding on to anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die”

– Buddha

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” – Shakespeare

“Gratitude is not only the greatest of all virtues, but the parent of all the others” – Cicero

“When you’re good to others, you are best to yourself” – Ben Franklin

“The voyage of the best ship is a zigzag line of a hundred tacks” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Who is rich? He that rejoices in his portion” – Ben Franklin

“Nothing in life is so hard that you can’t make it easier by the way you take it”

– Ellen Glasgow

“Life appears to me to be too short to be spent in nursing animosity or regret”

– Charlotte Bronte

“Not money, or success, or position, or travel, or love makes happiness - service is the secret” – Kathleen Norris

“To understand all is to forgive all” – Evelyn Waugh

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Local law firm offers college scholarships

Law firm Rosenberg and Rodriguez PLLC, which has its Long Island offices in Freeport, is inviting all high school graduates to apply for its annual scholarship program this summer. The law firm says it seeks to inspire youth to understand the values of responsibility, safety and justice through this program.

The program offers a grand prize scholarship of $2,000 and two runner up scholarships of $500 each. Scholarship funds will be paid directly to the college or university of each winner.

To participate in this program and possibly earn the scholarship prize, students are tasked with interviewing someone who has suffered an injury due

to negligence and, with permission, write a reflective essay of 400 to 600 words that explore the impact, responsibility, possible prevention and lessons learned from their chosen story.

All student applicants must be a current high school senior at an accredited school in the U.S., plan to enroll in a two- or four-year college or university in the fall of 2026 and submit a completed essay accurate to the prompt by the submission deadline, July 1. Winners will be announced on July 15 and contacted by phone and email.

For more information, please email scholarship@rosenbergfirm.com.

–Andrew Francis

Harbor Social to highlight mental health

ute to Long Island’s vibrant Pride traditions while creating a space along the harbor where people from across the region can gather, connect, advocate and celebrate together in a spirit of unity and pride,” Cuevas added.

Freeport Pride involves a wider network of organizers and partners that hope to bring about impactful community change and acceptance to the area.

“I’m truly grateful to be part of bringing this celebration of the LGBTQ+ community to life,” Sarah Duffy, a Freeport resident and community engagement coordinator for Freeport Pride, stated. “We all need moments of joy, especially now, and it’s so important that we stand together in support of those who are most vulnerable and too often targeted.”

Freeport Pride’s Harbor Social marks a continuation of years of acknowledging and celebrating LGBTQ+ communities in Freeport. Freeport Pride, according to Cuevas, was born out of Pride on the Mile events that had been hosted in Freeport for three years. The Village of Freeport and other community leaders said they are hoping to organize another Pride-related event in June.

In addition to garnering local support and participation for Freeport Pride, community leaders and legislators also have spoken out about their support for the organization.

in its short time as an organization, freeport pride has organized several community mixers and events, attracting support from locals and legislators.

“Supporting youth mental health is not optional, it is essential,” Assemblyman Noah Burroughs’ office said in a statement to the Herald. “By prioritizing awareness, access to resources and early intervention, we can help ensure that every young person has the support they need to navigate challenges and thrive. Organizations like Freeport

wPride play a vital role in creating safe, supportive spaces and uplifting our community through this important work.”

Assemblywoman Judy Griffin shared her support, stating, “I applaud the fundraising efforts of Freeport Pride, as they bring impactful and invaluable LGBTQ-related initiatives to schools and organizations throughout Long Island.”

For more information about Freeport Pride and its Harbor Social, email Pride.Freeport@gmail.com or visit the group’s Facebook and Instagram social media accounts.

Photos courtesy Jose Cuevas Joseph Smith, one of the founders of freeport pride, first co-founded pride on the mile in 2022, which became the biggest pride celebration on Long island.

jaxSON TOrrES PLAINEDGE Junior Baseball

ONE OF MANY REASONS the Red Devils have established themselves as one of the favorites in Nassau Class A baseball, Torres threw their second no-hitter this spring April 27 in Plainedge’s 8-0 win over Locust Valley. The righthander struck out 15 and walked only one as the Red Devils won their 13th straight game without a loss. The performance upped Torres’ record on the mound to 5-0 with a 1.75 ERA and 0.61 WHIP with 56Ks in 28 innings.

GAMES TO WATCH

Thursday, May 7

Softball: South Side at Hewlett 4:30 p.m.

Baseball: Plainedge at Mineola 4:45 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Seaford at Wantagh

Baseball: Massapequa at Oceanside

Baseball: Uniondale at V.S. Central

Softball: Farmingdale at Plainedge

Softball: Baldwin at V.S. North 5 p.m.

Softball: Uniondale at Sewanhaka 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Long Beach at North Shore 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: South Side at Garden City 5 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse: Manhasset at Farmingdale 5:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Plainedge at South Side 6 p.m.

Baseball: V.S. South at East Rockaway 7 p.m.

Friday, May 8

Softball: Lynbrook at Elmont 4:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse: Baldwin at Freeport 5 p.m.

Softball: Glen Cove at Wantagh 5 p.m.

Softball: Mepham at Oceanside 5 p.m.

Softball: East Meadow at Plainedge 5 p.m.

Softball: Garden City at Long Beach 5 p.m.

Baseball: Long Beach at Kennedy 5 p.m.

Baseball: New Hyde Park at Calhoun 5 p.m.

Baseball: Hewlett at Carey 5 p.m.

Baseball: Mepham at Clarke 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 year. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Freeport avenges loss to East Rock

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Coming off a playoff-eliminating defeat, senior-led Freeport softball was determined to respond and earned its signature win of the season last Friday while avenging a double-digit loss to East Rockaway.

The Red Devils trailed by four runs after an inning and a half but rallied with crooked numbers in each of next five innings and held on for a wild 22-18 victory. Senior Natalie Pinckney had four RBIs and scored four times, senior Alani Nunez reached base in all five plate appearances and scored four runs, and senior Deanna Reyes knocked in three as the hosts improved their Conference 5 record to 10-5.

“It’s a resilient group and this was a nice win for us against a good opponent,” Freeport coach Rich Genzone said. “It was a good challenge since we lost 21-10 to East Rockway the first time. We have 11 seniors with a lot of heart, so we’re looking at a big turnover next year. But we want to finish strong.”

Senior Kiera Stephens, sophomore Leila Perez and freshman Cassidy Knight had four RBIs apiece for the Rocks, who fell to 12-3 in conference play and will be seeded either second or third in the Nassau Class B playoffs. Freeport batters drew an outrageous 21 walks.

“We’ve been playing well and we scored 18 runs,” East Rockaway coach Joe Lores said. “We’ve been allowing around 10 and today was one of those days you’re going to have over the course of a long season.”

The Rocks, who were riding a fivegame win streak behind the pitching of freshman Liliana Germani and Stephens, scored three times in the top of the first including two on a double off the bat of Stephens. They led 4-0 after sophomore Cara Agro singled to lead off the second and scored on Knight’s groundout to junior Brooklyn Mckenzie at shortstop.

The Red Devils responded with three runs in the bottom half of the second

and added seven runs in the third for a 10-4 lead. They sent 12 batters to the plate in the third and Deanna Reyes had a pair of singles in the adding and capped it by driving in Pinckney and Mckenzie. Their battery combination of senior pitcher Gabriella Nurse and senior catcher Wenelyis Reyes, who bat third and cleanup, respectively, were also factors in the rally.

“Gabby is one of the best pitchers in the conference and is also a strong hitter,” Genzone said. “Wenelyis has played a lot of different positions for us over the years and stepped up this year to

catch. She’s a grinder who’s played second base, shortstop and in the outfield.”

The teams combined for 11 runs in the fourth inning with walks being the main culprit for Freeport’s 6-spot. Senior shortstop Charlotte Webster, Knight and sophomore catcher Kristina Wilkerson all had RBIs and runs in the top of the frame as East Rockaway got within 10-9.

And despite scoring four runs in the sixth and five more in the seventh, the Rocks dug too deep a hole and the game ended with the potential tying run on the on-deck circle.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald Senior catcher Wenelyis Reyes and the Red Devils won a marathon 22-18 matchup against East Rockaway last Friday.

Freeport veteran joins school trustee race

By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com

Marie Carmel Houanche, a long time Freeport resident, is running for a Freeport Public Schools board trustee seat ahead of the May 19 election. Although she never attended any Freeport schools herself, Houanche has been an active participant in district affairs, having had five children enrolled in various Freeport schools with all graduating from Freeport High School. One grandchild is currently attending Freeport High School, highlighting her continued interest in the school district’s affairs.

As a resident for about 40 years, Houanche has been involved in a variety of professional and community services. She is a registered nurse and also served as a U.S. Army chaplain for 20 years. As a septuagenarian, she continues to serve as a chaplain at the American Legion William Clinton Post 342 in Freeport.

Houanche also serves on the executive committee of the Freeport-Roosevelt NAACP and chairs the Veterans Committee. She is no stranger to community leadership, being a member of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee for the Village of Freeport, and providing leadership and collaborative efforts to a variety of school and community related events and initiatives.

“My priorities center on strengthening student well-being, academic excellence and community trust,” she told the Herald.

One of her main goals is providing proper clinical care for Freeport students.

“I would expand mental health supports for students, especially adolescents,” she explained. “My clinical background will help shape effective, evidence-based programs.”

Houanche added that she aims to “strengthen family engagement,” provide more professional development programs, adopt financial literacy programs and ensure “responsible transparent budgeting, so every dollar supports classrooms, student services and safe, well-maintained schools.”

When asked what she believes is the biggest challenge facing Freeport Public Schools, Houanche pointed to the depleted levels of trust within the district and the “rumor mill” that harms effective communication.

“When communication breaks down with rumor mill controls, everything else becomes harder, from implementing programs to support students,” she said. “Restoring trust begins with consistent, respectful communication and commitment to openness. I would persistently work to ensure that board decisions are clearly explained… promote (accessible)

public information and not leaving residents in the dark… (and modeling) professionalism and integrity in discussions, even in difficult conversations.”

In reference to ongoing public disputes with Freeport Teachers Association President Patricia Langan and reassigned superintendent Fia Davis, who has been sued by the district, Houanche affirmed that her focus is and will be on stability and professionalism.

“Disputes should never overshadow the purpose of education and students’ needs,” Houanche stated. “As a board member I would promote mediation and structured dialogue, so any conflicts are resolved constructively and privately, not public showdowns,” adding that she would consult with the district lawyers about legal cases.

Houanche wants Freeport residents and families to vote for her and support her candidacy as a school board trustee based on her experience thus far and her continued commitment to the community.

“I’m running because I love this community. I understand its history and have roots here as a woman, mother, pastor and veteran,” she explained. “I am committed to (ensuring that) every child in Freeport receives the education and support they deserve from public education.”

This is a profile and not an endorse-

ment of any candidates. The Freeport school board trustee’s election and budget confirmation will be on May 19. Freeport residents can register to vote Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Freeport Public Schools administration building.

Courtesy Marie Carmel Houanche Since deciding to run for a school board seat, Houanche looks to prioritize student mental health and wellness if elected.

Jouissance runs to reclaim her trustee seat

By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com

Beverly Jouissance, 36, who has lived with her family in Freeport since 2008, is hoping to be elected for a second time to serve as a Freeport school board trustee on May 19. She was previously elected in May 2025, before having to relinquish her seat in September.

Jouissance has served school communities for over 12 years as a school bus driver, being certified for the Commercial Driver’s License Trainer and Safety program. She has additionally served as a volunteer cheerleading, basketball and track coach and mentor for youth in Freeport.

If elected, Jouissance says that she wants to spend more time listening to residents sharing district needs rather than “coming in with a long list of new initiatives.”

“I want to listen, understand the district needs and build on a solid foundation in a thoughtful, responsible way,” she said. “I’d want to build on what’s already working, while focusing on a few key areas.”

Those key areas are strengthening communication and transparency with families and staff, advocating for family concerns and “supporting the whole student,” meaning that a child’s academic well-being as well as their mental and physical well-being would be priori-

tized during their school experiences.

Jouissance, like many school board trustee candidates and community members, views district communication has one of Freeport Public Schools’ biggest challenges.

“A lot of frustration in general can come when communication isn’t always clear or when it’s not obvious how input is reflected in decisions,” Jouissance said. “I think part of addressing that is listening, communicating more consistently and being open about what can and can’t be shared. …If families feel heard, I feel it may go a long way toward strengthening the trust and supporting the district as a whole.”

Jouissance’s tenure last year as a school board trustee came to an abrupt end and lasted only four months. She was dismissed from the board for not living within the Freeport district according to district administrators last year. Jouissance says, however, that this incident was not meant to be deceptive and should not limit her ability to serve the district now.

“I was and remain a resident of Freeport district,” Jouissance asserts. “I submitted the proper documentation confirming that. However, there was a mishap in how that information was handled and communicated from a now former administrative cabinet member who withheld valuable and important information confirming my residency.”

She says that as a result her children, who attended district schools, were temporarily removed from school and her eligibility to serve as a school board trustee was impacted due to the alleged withholding of her information. She believes that this was done intentionally and says there has always been evidence that she resided in the district.

“Even though the situation was resolved, it should not have happened in the first place,” Jouissance said. “It exposed real gaps in the process within the district and how important decisions are handled. I’m addressing this head on because no family should face that kind of disruption due to administrative failures. When elected, I will work to ensure clearer procedures, stronger oversight and fair consistent treatment for every family.”

Ultimately, Jouissance says she will be focused on uniting the community towards supporting district students, teachers and staff.

“What I’ll bring is a strong focus on advocating for students, families and also supporting the staff and teachers who work with them every day,” Jouissance said. “I’m a person that likes to listen first, ask questions, then try to understand different perspectives before making decisions. …I believe people should feel like when they raise a concern it’s actually heard and taken seriously.”

failure” by others caused her to lose her position, and now seeks to lead again.

This is a profile and not an endorsement of any candidates. The Freeport school board trustee’s election and budget confirmation will be on May 19. Freeport residents can register to vote Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Freeport Public Schools administration building.

Courtesy Beverly Jouissance Jouissance believes an “administrative

Richardson’s focus on district development

By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com

Scott Richardson, a lifelong Freeport resident and current Freeport Public Schools school board vice president, hopes to continue passionately serving his community by being re-elected as a board trustee on May 19. Richardson, 55, is one of two incumbent trustee candidates, along with Dina Skeffrey.

Richardson, who works for the Freeport Electric Department as an oiler technician, has been widely involved with Freeport schools. He says he has attended every current Freeport public school, outside of the New Visions Museum School, and the now closed Cleveland Avenue School.

Richardson has co-founded and been the president of the Freeport Red Ravens Sports and Academic Club Incorporated, which he says is the largest 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Freeport. He was elected to serve as a school board trustee in 2023, and says that he’s proud of the work he’s helped contribute on the board so far.

“One thing I’m especially proud of is that we’ve been able to hold the line on taxes while still keeping our schools running the way they should,” Richardson stated. “That’s not easy and we know families are feeling pressure, so we take that seriously. I’m also proud that even with some challenges in dis-

trict leadership, we’ve stayed steady and made sure the day-to-day operations never skipped a beat.”

Richardson also acknowledges that there is more to be done to strengthen and review policies and procedures that he says have not been properly updated for about 20 years, causing “delays and confusion in how the district runs.” He also hopes, if re-elected, to strengthen what he calls the district’s “academic culture.”

“We believe in our children and we know the parents in Freeport are sending us their very best every single day,” Richardson said. “That means we have a responsibility to give them a high quality education and push them to reach their full potential. …If I am elected to continue serving, I will keep asking the tough questions and pushing us to do better every day because that is what our students and families expect from us.”

Richardson and his current colleagues on the school board have been often critiqued by district employees and parents regarding what has been described as a lack of transparency from the board. While Richardson says he takes those comments and concerns seriously, he believes “this board has been more transparent than any I have ever seen.”

Richardson expressed that he has not set any personal goals of becoming

board president or vice president again, and will serve in whatever way needed.

When asked about the public feud between the school board and Freeport Teachers Association President Patricia Langan, who in the past has publicly called out Richardson for what she felt was rude behavior and comments made about her during board meetings and town halls, he tied his thoughts on the matter to his desire to improve the district’s academic and professional climate.

“I want to be clear, there is no fractured relationship on my part,” he asserted. “I can disagree strongly and still treat people with respect. If there has been any strain I am always open to fixing that. At the same time, I will not move off the idea that our children come first. My comments (about Langan) were honest and meant to be transparent. The simple point was that we cannot talk about personnel matters in public unless we have permission from the person involved and that is required by law.”

Richardson believes that he provides valuable insight and experience as a board member, and hopes to continue the work he started.

“I know how the work gets done and I stay focused on doing it the right way,” he said. “I am not here for attention or titles. I am here to serve and to help keep this district moving in the right

direction for our students and community.”

Skeffrey seeks to continue as board trustee

By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com

Dina Skeffrey, current school board trustee hoping to be elected to the same position on May 19, says that support, especially for students, has been integral to her own development and her professional life. From her childhood as a student at the Columbus Avenue School and graduating from Freeport High School in 1993, to becoming an educator and role model for many, support has been a common theme.

“I have had amazing teachers in Freeport, especially in the high school, that ground me,” Skeffrey said. “They shaped my future, as well as my village. I come from a culture of really strong women and just a strong familial sense, so I always have the village.”

Skeffrey 51, attributes her love and value of education to her Jamaican parents’ upbringing, which she subsequently passed on to her own son who is a junior at Freeport High School. She began her school leadership journey while still attending Freeport High School when she started an HIV/AIDS awareness group at the school, which was one of the first of its kind during the early 1990s. She was honored by the Long Island Association for AIDS Care for this work and has left a legacy at the school through it.

Skeffrey went on to earn four different higher education degrees, including a master’s in business administration from Dowling College and a Ph.D. in curriculum instruction, science of learning and equity and justice from the University at Buffalo. With this training she we would earn various school administrative roles at Binghamton University in addition to serving as a marketing and business management professor at New York University. It’s through these roles that she feels equipped to serve Freeport as a school board trustee.

“It’s all the leadership,” she said. “It’s being within the community, it’s being active in the community, being a parent in the community (that has prepared me). So, your ears are always to the ground, and your eyes are always focused on students and student advocacy and just ensuring that our children have the most success.”

Skeffrey is currently the newest school board trustee, although she was not previously elected. In August 2025 Skeffrey was specially appointed by the school board after former trustee Beverly Jouissance was dismissed from the board when it was discovered that she did not live in the district. Jouissance was elected in May 2025 and is running in this year’s school board trustee election again.

After being chosen by the board, Skeffrey hopes that Freeport voters will choose her to continue to serve. Skeffrey’s top priorities, assessing and strengthening the current curriculum, promoting various pathways for students towards college and other career or trade opportunities, valuing student well-being and establishing genuine avenues for families to express opinions and concerns to the board, all lead to her passion for supporting students.

“Looking and making sure that we’re really data driven and looking at assessments, looking to see where we need to improve in curriculum and making sure that we’re looking at pathways for college and pathways for the children that decide that they don’t want to go to college…must be enacted.”

If elected, Skeffrey says she would help improve communications channels between the board, its employees and community stakeholders, recognizing that board transparency is a concern.

Ultimately, Skeffrey envisions Freeport Public Schools working as a community to do what is best for its students.

“I want to make sure that our children are having the most success within their high school years and within their elementary years that prepare them for the optimal academic and professional trajectory. Your voice, our schools, our future.”

Courtesy Dina Skeffrey Dina Skeffrey believes that after her appointment as a board trustee last year she has more work to be done.

Courtesy Scott Richardson Richardson says he offers service to the district proudly and with respect, regardless of any disagreements.

Trio of trustee candidates call for stability

By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com

In a tightly contested Freeport school board trustee election, candidates Gabriela Castillo, Eddie Gordon and Michael Pomerico, who are campaigning together, hope to make the decision simple for Freeport voters ahead of the May 19 election.

The trio says they encouraged to campaign to be elected to school board seats after witnessing what they describe as “a critical time for the district” amidst lawsuits, contentious board of education meetings and public disputes with teachers.

“The community is paying attention, and they’re asking for change,” the candidates said in a joint statement. “The children of Freeport deserve stability, transparency and leadership with their best interests at heart.”

All three candidates have lived in Freeport for most, if not all, of their lives, and expressed a deep sense of commitment to strengthening their community. Additionally, the trio offers experience with administrative work, as Castillo, 46, served on the Freeport school board from 2019 to 2022, and Pomerico served as school board president for 12 years before retiring in 2019. Gordon has served as an athletics coach in Freeport, working directly with and mentoring community youth.

“We reached out to Eddie, as I felt that we had two experienced board members and a brand new board member that would bring new ideas to the board,” Pomerico said.

With transparency and stability key concerns for many of the district’s teachers and families, Castillo, Gordon and Pomerico have made these issues central to their campaign.

“Transparency isn’t optional, it’s the foundation of leadership,” Gordon said. “The people of Freeport deserve to know what’s being done and why it’s being done.”

“I have decided to run again because our students, teachers and staff deserve steady leadership, experience and a clear vision for a future that strengthens our district,” Castillo added. “As a parent of current Freeport students and a former board member, I have seen the challenges we face and understand the

process we must engage in to steer Freeport schools in the right direction, while restoring trust within the community.”

When asked to identify what they believe is the key issue that needs to be addressed, Gordon quickly pointed to finances and the perceived lack of clarity that they say currently exists around the district’s money.

“There’s a lot of things going on that don’t make sense,” he said. “Money is being wasted. As tax payers, we don’t want to have our taxes to increase… especially in Long Island, since the cost of living is constantly going up.”

Pomerico explained that what he thinks is a simply way to improve financial transparency is to provide more detailed presentations of the district budget to board meeting attendees. He mentioned the recent budget adoption meeting that occurred on April 22, which only featured a PowerPoint pre -

sentation that gave what he felt was a surface level overview of the 2026-27 proposed budget.

“I was on the board for 12 years,” he said. “Every year, there was two boxes with budgets. You could take a budget home and look at it, come and ask questions. That’s not happening. What are they hiding?”

Another concern Castillo, Gordon and Pomerico hope to address would be the ongoing lawsuit with reassigned district superintendent Fia Davis.

“That’s going to be priority one,” Castillo said. “This investigation has gone on for too long with zero information.”

The candidates also suggested that vendettas exist within the district, to the point where they said some teachers were afraid of attending the candidates’ meet and greet rally that occurred at the Bayview on the Water restaurant on April 23, for fear of retribution from current board members.

“The teachers are walking on eggshells,” Pomerico claimed. “If we want our kids to thrive in this district, the teachers got to be comfortable.”

EDDIE GoRDoN G ABRIEl A CAStIllo

MIChAEl PoMERICo

Carmine Carpinone Funeral Director/ Manager

Michael Carpinone Funeral Director

Come march in the Memorial Day Parade

Organizations interested in taking part in the annual American Legionsponsored Memorial Day Parade and Commemoration still have time, but the clock is ticking. In its 107th year, the parade will step off at 10 a.m. Monday, May 26, from the parking lot of Freeport High School on Brookside Avenue. The parade ends at the viewing stand across from the Freeport Public Library on Merrick Avenue. Organizations can start lining up at 9:15 a.m.

“You can’t just show up and march, you have to register,” explains David Cockerel, former commander of the William Clinton Story Post 342, which organizes the parade each year. “Everyone is welcome to march, we have to know who is going to be in the parade. We have to have a complete list all the organizations. Also, you have to be affiliated with an organization to march.”

This year’s event will also include a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, including hosting a pair of Grand Marshals, both of whom are descendants of Revolutionary War soldiers. They will be Laura Smith, a descendent of the Benjamin Raynor Family, who founded Raynortown, which eventually became Freeport. She also is a descendant of Adam Smith. The other is Stacey Rose, who is the great-great granddaughter of Benjamin Lattimore Sr.

Adam Smith and the Raynor family

have both a genealogical and geographic relationship, centering on the settlement of “Raynortown.” Smith served as a Private in the New York levies under Col. Marinus Willett. Levies were temporary, state-raised troops serving alongside the Continental Army and local militia, primarily in 1776-83 to defend the northern/western frontiers. These regiments were distinct from the permanent New York Line regiments.

They focused on suppressing Loyalist activity and protecting against BritishIndian raids. Service primarily took place on the Mohawk Frontier from 1780-81. He served during the same time period as “Free Black” patriot Lattimore Sr., who also served on the Mohawk Frontier.

As they do every year, veterans will have a place of honor in the parade. In addition, all veterans are invited to

march or ride in one of the automobiles in the parade.

“From Vietnam veterans on down, no matter what your nationality, if you fought in an American conflict, you’re welcome to march in the parade,” Cockerel says. “Those who cannot march are invited to ride.”

The parade has grown and averages nearly 50 organizations that include school and other bands, antique and classic car clubs, Junior ROTC, a plethora of police and fire fighter vehicles and first responders and veterans.

“As a veteran, I am so proud to be marching with all these men and women who sacrificed so much in their service to our country,” says Mayor Robert T. Kennedy, who is a U.S. Navy veteran. “There is always such a great showing, and because we also are celebrating the 250th birthday, I am sure even more people will want to take part, and I expect even more spectators as well. We always have a great showing of spectators lining the route and cheering everyone on.”

For more information, call 516-6979900, 516-410-9994 or email wcspost342@ gmail.com. Those taking part must participate in a zoom meeting to complete their parade registration; https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/88997187414?pwd=6G vA9xziuwEHia2bK6wakvMuydLpme.1.

–Andrew Francis

Deliah Roberts/Herald

The Grand Marshall of the 2024 Freeport Memorial Day parade, Kalib Walker, grins broadly while waving to parade onlookers.

CELEBRATING

ROOTED IN STRENGTH

CELEBRATING NURSES: MEET SOME OF OUR NURSE HEROES

ABIGAIL DUNNE, RN

Glen Cove Hospital

Northwell Health

Abigail Dunne’s path into healthcare began during her high school years in Locust Valley.

“I went to Locust Valley High School and I took an EMT course and I started volunteering in the Bayville Fire Department as an EMT,” Dunne, 23, says. “I decided that I really enjoyed helping people and I really liked being able to help people in ways that others couldn’t necessarily.”

Her experience in emergency medical services shaped her decision to pursue nursing, to provide what she described as a deeper level of care.

“So it was more than just offering emotional support, but now it’s like physical support and seeing people get better, get stronger. It’s just been something that’s always made me feel really good. I just love helping people.”

Dunne went on to attend nursing school while a nursing assistant at Glen Cove Hospital, where she has been employed since September 2022.

“I’ve worked at Glen Cove ... I was a nursing assistant during nursing school.”

She relates that her role as a nurse centers on compassion and service to others.

“I feel like being a nurse, it’s really just about being able to give to other people. We know people are sick and being able to help them deﬁnitely is very rewarding in itself.”

Healthcare runs in her family. Her sister works in EMS and as a nurse at Plainview Hospital, and her greatgrandfather was a doctor.

- As told to Roksana Amid

TAMEKA WALLACE, RN

Glen Cove Hospital Northwell Health

Tameka Wallace, 42, vice president and chief nursing ofﬁcer at Glen Cove Hospital, did not initially plan a career in health care.

“My path was ﬁnance,” Wallace says, explaining that she once hoped to pursue her father’s career path. “I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps. He worked on Wall Street, and I was always fascinated.”

Her trajectory shifted after she took a job in hospitality services at North Shore University Hospital at age 16. By 18, she had moved onto a Telemetry unit, where she discovered her passion for patient care.

“Once I was able to get on the ﬁrst unit, I fell in love with patient care services.”

That experience, coupled with working alongside her mother, helped shape her future.

“I actually started nursing school with my mom. We did nursing school together, and we actually graduated together as well.”

Wallace, who has been with Northwell Health for 26 years and a nurse for more than two decades, shares that her work is rooted in advocacy and compassion.

“What nursing means to me is being the patient and caregiver’s advocate; making sure that they feel that they are at home, away from home. You want to put the patient at ease at a very tough time in their life.”

Now in a leadership role, Wallace aims to highlight the broader impact of the profession.

“My goal is to make sure that we get the word out on how special nursing is. It’s not just being at the bedside, we touch so many people in so many ways.”

- As told to Roksana Amid

EBONI NORVILLE, RN, NURSE MANAGER

St. John's Episcopal Hospital

Episcopal Health Services

As a child, I have always had a love for medicine. One of my ﬁrst toys was a stethoscope, and I loved to play doctor and surgery on my dolls. My favorite television shows have been related to medicine. My late father would say “Medicine is in your blood! You’re born with it!”

One day, I could not help but to ask my father why he said this. He went on to explain that his aunt worked as an RN in England for over 20 years, and my grandmother worked as a CNA. As I thought about this, I realized that he was right! Some of my fondest memories as a child are of my family members caring for the elders.

Upon further reﬂection I realized my most cherished childhood memories involve my family instinctively knowing how to care for our elders, anticipating their needs for healing or comfort. As I matured, the realization struck me: the care, compassion, attentiveness, and nurturing instinct that is within me, is the core of nursing. Almost instinctively knowing what's needed to heal or cure others.

Throughout my professional life, I have had the privilege of working in diverse settings, and those fundamental nursing principles have remained constant. Today, I am incredibly proud and grateful to be a registered nurse.

LUCKENDY CHERY, RN, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

St. John's Episcopal Hospital

Episcopal Health Services

My desire to become a nurse was shaped early in life, growing up surrounded by healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, physicians and a long line of nurses across various specialties. It felt like a path I was always meant to follow.

Although I brieﬂy pursued a degree in business administration, it didn’t take long for me to return to my true calling. My journey began as an EMT, where I was known for going above and beyond in patient care, showing compassion, empathy and a commitment to doing my best. My curiosity led me to seek more than just immediate care. I wanted to understand what happened to my patients after I transferred them and how their care continued.

This curiosity led me to work as a Behavioral Health Technician for five years, where I supported patients on a Behavioral Health unit. There, I saw firsthand the profound impact nurses had through compassion, teaching and therapeutic interventions. I found fulfillment in reinforcing coping skills and lessons patients could carry back into their communities. Ultimately, my experiences, curiosity and support system guided me to nursing.

Now, after one year as a nurse, I embrace my role as an educator, advocate and leader entrusted with lives and responsible for making a meaningful difference. I chose nursing to be a positive force in the lives of patients and their families, to educate them in ways they can understand, and to serve as an example that empowers others to advocate for themselves and pursue nursing as well.

Excellence in All You Do! Thank You, Nurses.

At Mount Sinai, we proudly honor the strength, compassion, and expertise of our nurses, and recognize the essential role they play in caring for our patients and supporting the communities we serve.

Mount Sinai’s nursing team creates excellence together every day. Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside and Mount Sinai Queens have each earned the prestigious Magnet® Recognition three times consecutively, while The Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan has received this distinction ﬁve times in succession—an honor achieved by less than 3 percent of hospitals in the United States. This recognition reﬂects an unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care and consistently better outcomes.

As we celebrate Nurses Week, we proudly recognize the dedication and excellence of the nurses who make this achievement possible every day. mountsinai.org

CELEBRATING NURSES: MEET SOME OF OUR NURSE HEROES

JENNIFER ERDMAN PSINAKIS, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, PCCN

NYU Langone Hospital

Long Island

I have been a nurse at NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island for close to 15 years on a Surgical Telemetry unit specializing in cardiothoracic surgery patients. It is the first unit I started on, and I am still working on that unit to this day! It is a very special unit staffed with very special people, some who have grown to be my closest friends. I am on many hospital councils and committees, and am a boardcertified holistic nurse.

I became a nurse out of a deeprooted desire to care for others and to form meaningful human connections. From an early age, I was drawn to roles that allowed me to support, comfort and uplift those around me, and nursing provided a natural path to turn that passion into a profession. To me, nursing is far more than clinical skill or technical knowledge — it is the privilege of being present for individuals during some of the most vulnerable and significant moments of their lives.

My greatest fulfillment comes from building trust with my patients, understanding their stories and providing care that honors not only their physical needs but also their emotional and personal experiences. Nursing means advocating, listening and showing compassion in a way that helps patients feel seen, heard and valued. It is both a responsibility and a profound honor to walk alongside patients and their families, offering support, dignity and genuine human connections when it matters most.

ADRIENNE KINCH BSN, RN, CPAN, PGMT-BC

NYU Langone Hospital

Long Island

My career as a nurse has been deeply rewarding and a lifelong journey of learning. Nursing has been my profession for almost 48 years, and I cherish every experience — whether happy or sad.

As a teenager, I lost my grandfather to a heart attack, and I felt helpless. I began volunteering at a hospital, where I realized it was my life’s calling. It became very important to me to pursue a career that would allow me to make a difference in people’s lives and give me the opportunity to help others. Nursing was the perfect ﬁt.

I have had the privilege of working at NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island for 36 years in the PACU. Prior to that, I spent 10 years as an ICU nurse and two years on a medical-surgical ﬂoor. I feel incredibly fortunate to have built such a fulﬁlling career at NYU Langone - Long Island and to have gained a second work family.

Helping new nurses grow and succeed is truly my passion. Teamwork and the ability to contribute to improving the quality of patient care have motivated me throughout the years. I credit my peers, my patients, and the support of leadership for helping me grow both professionally and personally.

Nursing has given me a profound sense of purpose and a lasting passion that has brought meaning to my life. If I can give hope to someone who is sick and see it in their eyes, then I am fulﬁlled. Sharing human experiences and showing kindness through serving others has made me a better person and helped me overcome some of my own life’s heartaches through the strength of those around me.

AMARPREET KAUR, RN Northwell

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

Amarpreet Kaur began her nursing career at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital last March, working on the hospital’s Medical-Surgical unit with a focus on older adult care.

Her path to nursing was shaped by early experiences after immigrating to the United States from India in 2008. As a child, she often assisted her father during medical appointments, translating and observing the role communication plays in patient care.

“It was their dream of {my brother and me] basically getting our degrees in the medical ﬁeld, and then coming back and giving back to the community,” Kaur says. “That's something that we always do here and there. When we go back, we set up a camp back home. Even if it is just checking their ﬁnger sticks for blood sugar levels or their blood pressure in the community, it's so fascinating to them. That's not something that people often do there.”

Kaur pursued a degree in biology before completing her nursing education at LIU Brooklyn in 2024.

Kaur shares she was drawn to nursing to combine compassion, advocacy and clinical knowledge while supporting patients during vulnerable moments. Since starting at the hospital, she has completed a nurse residency program and taken on additional responsibilities, including serving as a diabetes resource on her unit. She has also contributed to initiatives focused on improving care for older adults and reducing complications such as falls and delirium.

Looking ahead, Kaur plans to pursue certiﬁcation in gerontology and begin graduate studies in informatics, with the goal of enhancing patient care through both clinical practice and technology.

- As told to Angelina Zingariello

ELIZABETH MCGRATH, RN

Northwell

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

Elizabeth McGrath has worked in nursing since 2010, building her career in high-acuity settings before transitioning to Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital to serve her local community.

A Franklin Square resident, she spent more than a decade working in Emergency and Intensive Care units in the Bronx before joining the Valley Stream hospital in 2022 as an Emergency Department nurse.

“I've always wanted to be a nurse,” McGrath says. “I've always had a passion for helping people since a very young age. I think my faith in Catholicism played a lot in wanting to provide equitable care, especially for underprivileged populations.”

After two years in the Emergency Department, she stepped into her current role as an associate educator, where she supports the development of new and experienced nurses. Her responsibilities include onboarding staff, leading training programs and coordinating educational initiatives tailored to the needs of the department.

“I'm the ﬁrst nurse in my family on all sides,” McGrath says. “Actually, I am very happy to say my daughter wants to become an Emergency Department nurse, just like me. So, perhaps there will be a second nurse in the family one day.”

She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in nursing education through Jacksonville University and expects to graduate next year. McGrath relates tht teaching has been a long-standing goal, allowing her to share her experience while supporting the next generation of nurses. She remains closely connected to clinical work by assisting staff during critical situations and staying engaged in patient care environments.

- As told to Angelina Zingariello

Nursing at Adelphi: Top Rated, Top Salaries, Top Career Opportunities

Prepare for your healthcare career—or advance the one you have.

Adelphi is a U.S. News & World Report Best College for Nursing, offering:

• BS in Nursing

• Accelerated BS in Nursing*

We’re also a U.S. News & World Report Best Grad School for Nursing, offering:

• MS in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

• MS in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

• MS in Healthcare Informatics

• MS in Nursing Education

• Master of Public Health

• PhD in Nursing

• DNP in Adult Gerontology Primary Care

• DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health

Clinical partnerships include Catholic Health, NYU Langone Health, Northwell Health, Mount Sinai Health System, New York-Presbyterian and New York City Health + Hospitals.

Visit adelphi.edu/nursingdegree

*Now offered in Garden City and Adelphi’s new Manhattan Center

Take Your Place in Healthcare

PAUL’S SCHOOL OF NURSING QUEENS CAMPUS

Our Dedicated to our communities. ,

Always leading. Always caring. Always learning.

They comfort, advocate, heal and inspire — often all in the same shift. Nurses bring skill, compassion and unwavering dedication to every patient encounter while helping shape the future of healthcare through leadership, education and innovation.

During National Nurses Week, we pause to recognize the extraordinary professionals who stand at the heart of our healthcare system. From routine visits to life-saving emergencies, from welcoming new beginnings to offering comfort in life’s most difficult moments, nurses are there through it all.

Their work demands resilience, expertise and endless empathy. We depend on their steady presence and commitment every day. Simply put, healthcare would not function without them.

In this special photo essay by Photo Editor Tim Baker, we celebrate these everyday heroes through images that capture their care, courage and commitment — and the countless ways they make a difference in our communities. We thank you. We celebrate you. We see you.

Photos by Tim Baker/Herald

1. At Glen Cove Hospital: Carla Joseph, RN, and Akeesha Sheriff, RN, confer in Endoscopy.

2 At work in Glen Cove Hospital's Brain Injury Unit with Nicole Caravella, RN, and Cindia Cisneros, RN

3. Lisa Pino, RN, and Hannah Russel, RN, with a newborn in Mercy Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

4. Lindsay Bodner, RN, and Kayla Lewis, RN, go about their shift in Surgery Oncology at Mercy Hospital.

5. Christopher Kelly, RN, and Torey Bender, RN, staff Outpatient Dialysis in NYU Langone –Long Island’s Emergency Department.

6. At Long Island Jewish Valley Stream: James Arxer, RN, and Tania Francois, RN, in the Emergency Department.

7. Wayne Lee RN, is a Transfer Nurse in Admission and Discharge at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream

The team in Surgical Step-down at Mount Sinai South Nassau includes Anne Quinn, RN, Jimmy Hernandez, RN, and Lauren Cuevas, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager. 9

9. Portia Javillo, RN, and Pamela Piyavunno, RN, at work in Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Family Medicine Department.

CELEBRATING NURSES: MEET SOME OF OUR NURSE HEROES

MITCHEL MARAVILLA, BSN, RN-BC

Mount

Sinai South Nassau

Becoming a nurse has been my dream since childhood. This aspiration began when I had to care for my father at a very young age. Sadly, he passed away shortly after I graduated from nursing school, but his memory continues to inspire my passion for this profession.

Nursing is a noble calling. The ability to care for others and help save lives is both a privilege and a gift — one that I carry with deep pride. For the past 25 years, I have dedicated myself to this profession, including 13 meaningful years at Mount Sinai South Nassau.

Throughout my career, nursing has taught me far more than clinical and technical skills. It has instilled in me the values of compassion, dedication and selflessness. In this profession, I learned that true fulfillment comes from serving others with a selfless heart. Helping without expecting anything in return and choosing to do what is right even when no one is watching.

Currently I work on F3, the Oncology Med-Surg/Telemetry unit, where teamwork and service are at the heart of everything we do. I work with amazing colleagues where we do more than just care for patients; we care for one another. We stand side by side like a family, lifting each other up and sharing both the burdens and the victories.

Over the years, MSSN has faced many changes and challenges. Yet, one thing has remained constant: our deep sense of belonging. We do not simply work here; we consider this institution our second home and continue to serve with compassion and purpose.

IVAN TAGLORIN, MSN, RN

Mount

Sinai South Nassau

Born in South Nassau, raised in the Oceanside community and now serving patients within it, my journey into nursing has truly come full circle. I began my nursing career in 2016, driven by a passion for helping others. A passion instilled in me early on through the values of my parents, who were both nurses.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of growing within the profession, starting as a bedside nurse, advancing to Assistant Nurse Manager, and now serving as a Nurse Informaticist. Each role has shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to patient care. While my responsibilities have changed, the core of why I chose nursing has remained the same.

To me, nursing is more than caring for the illness in front of me. It is about recognizing the individual behind the diagnosis. It is about understanding that every patient has a story, a family, a life beyond the hospital room. Nursing means showing up for people during some of their most vulnerable moments and providing not only clinical care, but also compassion, dignity and support.

In my current role, I contribute to patient care on a broader level by improving systems and implementing technologies that empower nurses and enhance the care experience for patients. Supporting nurses in delivering safe, efﬁcient and high-quality care is just as important as the outcomes themselves, as it ultimately shapes every patient's interaction. No matter the setting, my goal remains the same: to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

I am grateful for the opportunities that have brought me to this point and for the ability to continue serving others through nursing.

BETHANY LAWSON, RN Catholic Health Mercy Hospital

Bethany Lawson’s path to nursing began with a simple instinct: to care for others. Growing up, she was drawn to comforting people in difﬁcult moments, a trait that steadily evolved into a calling.

Today, Lawson is a medical-surgical nurse at Mercy Hospital, where she has worked for 13 years, ﬁrst as a patient care assistant before earning her nursing degree.

Her role is wide-ranging, from caring for psychiatric and elderly patients to performing IV therapy and phlebotomy. The variety keeps her engaged, but it is her mindset that deﬁnes her work. She approaches every patient as if they were family, a perspective that guides her through long hours and difﬁcult days.

“What keeps me going is I come to work every day, and I always treat my patients like they're my mom, my sister, my brother, my grandparents. The fulﬁllment I get from knowing I've done my part is unmatched, and it continues to motivate me to show up every day with the same passion and dedication.”

Lawson relates her decision to advance in the ﬁeld came early in her career, when she realized she wanted to do more for her patients. That drive pushed her back to school and ultimately into nursing, where she could expand her skills and impact.

She credits the supportive, familyoriented environment at Mercy Hospital for helping her grow, noting that colleagues encourage one another to improve and deliver the highest level of care to the community they serve each day.

“Nursing means helping others when they're unable to help themselves, putting my patients' needs at the forefront, and caring for them the way I would care for myself or my loved ones.”

- As told to Brian Kacharaba

GABRIELLE DEL GATTO, RN Catholic Health Mercy Hospital

Gabrielle Del Gatto discovered her calling in nursing after initially pursuing a career in education, ultimately realizing she wanted to serve people more directly in their most vulnerable moments.

Drawn to the emotional and clinical demands of patient care, she entered the nursing profession in December 2024 and quickly found meaning in the fast-paced, high-responsibility environment of the hospital setting.

On a Medical-Surgical unit, she cares for a diverse mix of patients, managing multiple assignments per shift while striving to improve each patient’s experience through attentive care each day on the unit.

“Honestly, I'm very religious, so I always wanted to work for Catholic Health hospitals because they just align with my values,” she says. “But for me, God is my never-ending motivation. Every single patient that has stood in my path, I know that they're sent to me from God. So even if things seem like they're not going the way they're meant to be, I know it's all part of the plan, and I don't question it.”

Early in her career, Del Gatto found afﬁrmation after forming a strong connection with a patient and family, an experience that led to a Daisy Award nomination just ﬁve months after practicing independently and reinforced her sense of purpose.

“My favorite part is when a patient looks me in the eye and tells me that they appreciate everything [I’ve done for them]. It is the best feeling in the whole entire world.”

She credits Mercy Hospital’s supportive culture and teamwork for helping her grow, noting the hospital’s shared commitment to compassionate care and the opportunity to learn and develop as a new nurse at Mercy.

- As told to Brian Kacharaba

CELEBRATING NURSES

NICOLETTE MASCIOLI, RN

Northwell

Long Island Jewish Medical Center

Nicolette Mascioli spent eight days in March on a mission trip to Guatemala. It was not a glamorous, Instagram-worthy vacation. Instead, she and other volunteers — through her alma mater Sacred Heart University — provided care in remote villages. Anyone who knows the 24-year-old Farmingdale native would not be surprised.

Today Nicolette is a registered nurse at Long Island Jewish (LIJ) Medical Center in New Hyde Park, specializing in a Post-Surgical unit that handles everything from neurosurgery and plastic surgery to colorectal procedures and hysterectomies.

She started her volunteer streak at age 15 when she spent time with the child life program at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park by entertaining, playing and bonding with sick youngsters. She followed that up as an LIJ volunteer. Little did she realize that a career in nursing — let alone a staff role at LIJ — would be in her future. After all, no one in her family had pursued a career in health care.

“I’m grateful to have made an impact on someone else’s life — even a little,” says Nicolette, the oldest of three sisters. “I feel like I do learn something new every day. I did not expect the opportunities that I’ve had through nursing.”

The Guatemala mission through her Catholic university was made possible by a donation from LIJ to cover her travel expenses. Nicolette brought back a greater appreciation of the need in the world and good she can do.

“It was life changing,” she says. “It really reshapes your perception.”

– As told to Jason Molinet

MELISSA SMALL, RN

Northwell

Long Island Jewish Medical Center

Melissa Small went away to college, a Jamaican immigrant living the American dream. But the leap proved too great financially and she was soon back in Brooklyn working a string of department store jobs. She even considered joining the U.S. military. Then a chance encounter with a nursing assistant who sold an alternative future pushed her into health care.

Today Melissa, 40, of Jamaica, Queens, is a registered nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical Center — the last 13 years in the same unit. Eight Tower is LIJ’s surgical oncology floor, with a focus on abdominal, lung and pancreatic surgery patients.

Looking back, the climb up seemed improbable. She worked in a nursing home, then received certifications for phlebotomy and electrocardiogram testing. Her big break was landing a temp job at LIJ, which eventually grew into full-time employment.

“I would recommend health care if your heart is in it,” Melissa says. “I can’t imagine my life not being by the bedside. I like to be around people — our patients are like family — so nursing is great for that.”

Northwell helped fuel her growth.

Aided by tuition reimbursement, she earned an Associate’s degree in Nursing followed by her Bachelor’s degree.

The leveling up of her career continues. Commuting part-time to New Jersey, she graduates from William Paterson University on May 20 with a Master of Science in Nursing, part of its family nurse practitioner program.

“Northwell has encouraged me to do more. The opportunity is there if it’s in you to do more."

– As told to Jason Molinet

STEPPING OUT

By Nick Mongiovi

Long Island has been home for the Ducks for 26 seasons in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB), and who better to add to a successful organization than a former CY Young Award winner?

Trevor Bauer signed with the Ducks on April 2, after pitching the last ﬁve years in Japan and Mexico. Long Island went 72-54 in 2025, as it looks to build upon last year’s success with speed and dominant pitching.

“When we signed guys, we were looking for guys that wanted to win, wanted to be here and further their careers,” says third-year manager Lew Ford, the franchise’s all-time hits leader. “They’re going to play hard. I think the fans enjoy that and that’s the kind of baseball we want to play.”

Last year’s Ducks led the league in pitching, ﬁnished in second in both ﬁelding and hitting, and broke a team record for most stolen bases in a season with 239. Before last season, Ford emphasized speed, reiterating “The game is moving a lot towards speed.”

“We’re very happy with all these guys,” he says “They can still run, hit and play defense. We have a good mix of veterans and younger guys, too.”

Bauer is the name that’ll bring the reigning No. 1 pitching staff to the next level. He received the nod from Ford to be the team’s Opening Day starter on April 21 against the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars. The 10-year MLB veteran struck out eight but surrendered ﬁve hits, three walks and two runs in four innings of work in the 7-0 loss. Bauer, who followed his Ducks debut with a dominant no-hitter, makes his return to the United States to pitch on American soil for the ﬁrst time since 2021 with a “hate to lose” mentality.

“They’ve had a lot of good players here,” Bauer says, on why he chose the Ducks. “A lot of guys have come through here and then signed elsewhere, kind of elevated their careers. All the guys who have been here and have had a really good time here, so that’s part of it. They win. I don’t like losing.

create buzz with Bauer signing

Inﬁelder Wilmer Difo brings MLB experience.

creation to be featured on his and the team’s social media and streaming outlets.

“We are excited to welcome Trevor to Long Island,” Ducks President/CBO Michael Pfaff says. “His talent and knowledge will be important additions to our ballclub, and we are happy to offer him this opportunity to showcase his talents to MLB clubs while giving fans unprecedented access to Ducks baseball. We felt that was a unique and interesting approach. He’s got very unique content, and his approach is overwhelmingly positive.”

Along with Bauer, the Ducks’ starting rotation features Island Park native Ryan Sandberg, who was the team’s most reliable and dominant starter, Nolan Clinton, Harrison Francis and Michael Dominguez. Sandberg pitched to a 3.82 ERA in 91.2 innings of work, striking out 73 batters,

Familiarity returns in the bullpen for Long Island as Jacob Asa, Garrett Crowley, Tanner Jacobsen, Ryan Langford, Michael Reed and Ramon Santos all return.

“Most of these guys came halfway through the year; they had a lot of success here,” Ford adds.

“Ramon Santos, being our closer, had under a one ERA, did a very good job for us.”

Dix Hills native Matt Hogan is the starting center ﬁelder.

Ben Folds & A Piano

Ben Folds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of his generation is joined by multitalented actress-singer-composer Lindsey Kraft. Known for pushing genre boundaries, Folds first rose to prominence with Ben Folds Five before launching a wide-ranging solo career that blends sharp lyricism, piano-driven melodies and orchestral ambition. His recent work reflects his deep engagement with orchestral music, including a live album featuring an olrchestral performance of his hits recorded just before concluding his eight-year tenure as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center — an appointment that marked a first for the role. Today, he continues to move fluidly between pop tours and performances with leading orchestras worldwide, while also developing new work for film, television and theater.

Friday, May 8, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

“Teams I’ve been on have been in the playoffs the last decade, except for 2019, when I was traded. “So I want the chance to be in the playoffs and play for something meaningful at the end of the year. Checks that box here. Great market, big in New York, with a huge baseball market. There are a lot of things that are important to me that go on here.”

meaningful at the end of the year. Checks that box are

Additionally, Bauer will be “Mic’d Up” for all games and practices for the purposes of content

He possesses “a lot of speed and defense,” Ford says. It’s a “full-circle moment” for Hogan, who grew up attending Ducks games.

“I remember I sat up in that box up there with my aunt and uncle,” Hogan says, reminiscing on his time as a kid coming to Ducks games. “So coming here and being able to enjoy the time here and have my family come to games. It’s my ﬁrst time playing on Long Island in about eight years. It’s humbling, it feels good. I’m excited to be here and really play with this team.”

Tickets can be purchased online at LIDucks.com, by calling (631) 940-TIXX, or in person at the Fairﬁeld Properties Ballpark box ofﬁce in Central Islip. All games will be streamed on HomeTeam Network (HTN) with a paid subscription.

Some promotions include ﬁreworks at all Saturday home games, sunglasses to the ﬁrst 1,500 fans May 17, and Bark in the Park with Ducks patriotic hats July 1.

here and being able to enjoy the time here and have my family come to with

Big band energy meets Jamaican soul. The unique 20-piece band blends the exuberant musical layers of the jazz Big Band era with Jamaican roots music. Their sound is powered by a passionate team of talented musicians, each bringing unique energy and expertise to create an unforgettable experience. Led by trumpeter and vocalist Kevin Batchelor, and featuring Jamaican music legend 87-year-young celebrated percussionist/vocalist Larry MacDonald on congas and vocals, and Jamaican master drummer Carl Wright, band creates and perform lush original compositions and arrangements of classic songs from the rich and culturally iconic Jamaican music of ska, mento, rock steady, reggae, and jazz from the 1950s, ’60s and ‘70s.

Friday, May 8, 8 p.m. $91, $42, $37. andmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

NYC Ska Orchestra

Courtesy Danielle Huebner

Courtesy L.I. Ducks

Quackerjack always gets Ducks fans hyped.

Courtesy L.I. Ducks Closer Ramon Santos was dominant in 2025.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

Library Recital Series

Treat the mothers, grandmothers, and the special women in your lives to an evening of modern choral masterpieces prior to Mother’s Day. Join the Long Island Choral Society at Freeport Memorial Library for a contemporary musical celebration that promises to be an early, elegant gift for everyone.

• Where: 144 W. Merrick Road

• Time: 7-8 p.m.

• Contact: freeportlibrary.info or (516) 379-3274

Family

theater

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

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also May 13-14

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

MAY 9

S.T.O.P. Collection

The Town of Hempstead encourages residents to clean their homes of hazardous materials. Dispose of such toxic items as antifreeze, drain cleans, pesticides, fluorescent bulbs, and oil-based paints at a S.T.O.P collection event.

• Where: Baldwin Park, 3232 South Grand Ave.

• Time: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 378-4210

Eisenhower Craft Fair

Check out the many craft vendors at Eisenhower Park.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, Field 8

• When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. also May 10, weather permitting

The Wallflowers

— have reached an audience of over 300,000 readers worldwide, underscoring his influence on both aspiring musicians and seasoned players Fabbri is a frequent guest at leading international guitar festivals and has performed in many of the world’s most renowned concert venues, where he also conducts masterclasses. His recording career has further expanded his reach.

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

MAY

Colonies vs. The Crown Sparkle on Stage welcomes all to enjoy this fascinating play. Founders discuss the future of America.

• Where: Sparkle on Stage Cultural Arts Center, 195 Woodcleft Ave.

• Time: 3-5 p.m.; also May 17

• Contact: sparkleonstage.org

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

The Wallflowers mark the 30th anniversary of their breakthrough album “Bringing Down the Horse” on their latest tour, with a special full-album performance at the Paramount, presenting the record in sequence from start to finish. Originally released in 1996, the album became a defining success of the decade, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and going quadruple platinum. It produced a string of major hits, including “6th Avenue Heartache,” “The Difference,” and the Grammy-winning “One Headlight,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the era’s most recognizable rock singles. Led by songwriter Jakob Dylan, the band draws on classic American rock influences such as The Band and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers — a legacy echoed in the tour’s additional tribute segment to Petty, including a full performance of the 1982 album Long After Dark. Over the years, Dylan has remained a consistent figure in rock music, collaborating widely and appearing in projects such as Echo in the Canyon alongside artists including Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Beck, Norah Jones and others. The Wallflowers also recently supported Eric Clapton on his 2025 U.S. tour, continuing their long-standing presence on major stages.

• Contact: NassauCountyFairs. com with museum admission.

‘The Enchantment of Strings’

Visit Old Westbury Gardens for an evening of chamber music as presents in the intimate and elegant Red Ballroom. Ensemblein-residence Poetica Musica Quartet featuring Eric Wyrick, violin; Eugene Moye, cello; and guest artists Janey Choi, violin; and Michael Roth, viola, performs a captivating program including works by Ravel, Mendelssohn, and Dvorák.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 8 p.m.

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

MAY

‘Inside Out’ Memory Orb

Families are invited to Long Island Children’s Museum for a drop-in program themed around the Disney/Pixar film. In “Inside Out” memories are represented by glowing orbs of various colors based on the emotions tied to the memories. Design and decorate your own memory orb to represent a special memory or feeling. Free

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

MAY

Atkinson Spring Festival of Arts

Students from the Caroline G. Atkinson School participate in the school’s Spring Festival of Arts. Parents and families are invited to attend and support the student performers.

• Where: 50 South Brookside Ave.

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 867-5265

MAY

Mother’s Day Service

Freeport Nazarene Church invites all to participate in its religious Mother’s Day Service. Those unable to attend in person can join the church’s live stream on YouTube or Facebook.

• Where: 301 Atlantic Ave.

• Time: 11 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 378-0834

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Columbus PTA Meeting

Parents and guardians of students attending Columbus Avenue School are encouraged to attend and be involved in the school community.

• Where: 150 North Columbus Ave.

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 867-5240

Dodd Spring Festival of Arts

Students from John W. Dodd Middle School participate in the school’s Spring Festival of Arts. Parents and families are invited to attend and support the student performers.

• Where: 25 Pine St.

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 867-5280

Roberto Fabbri

MAY

The Internationally acclaimed classical guitar virtuoso brings his signature blend of precision and expressive artistry to the Madison Theatre stage. A prolific performer and educator, Fabbri has built a global reputation that extends well beyond the concert hall. His more than 40 guitar publications — translated into five languages, including Chinese

STEM Explorers: May Flowers

Flowers are happening at Long Island Children’s Museum. As the weather gets warmer, the world around us starts blooming! Join the Green Teens and learn about the importance of flowers in our natural world.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

MAY

Tunes with County Line

Eisenhower Park’s summer concerts return! County Line hits the stage at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theater.

Enjoy a show filled with classic, country and southern rock tunes.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, Field 6/6A

• When: Noon

• Contact: NassauCountyNY.gov

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.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ANNUAL DISTRICT ELECTION, BUDGET HEARING AND VOTE OF BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 7, 2026

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU

STATE OF NEW YORK, TO BE HELD ON May 19, 2026

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 6, 2026, 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, 2026.

2. Presentation and discussion of the budget for operation of the Baldwin Public Library for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026.

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 2026-2027, the library appropriation, and on all propositions duly filed with the Board of Education to fill vacancies for Trustees on the Board of Education 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 19, 2026, between the hours of 7:00AM and 9:00PM. There are two board of education offices to be filled at the May 19, 2026, annual budget vote and election. One office is for a full three (3) year term from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029. The other office is for the balance of an unexpired term from May 19, 2026, to June 30, 2027. The candidate receiving the largest number of votes will be elected to the longer term. The candidate receiving the second most votes will be elected to the balance of the unexpired term.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER

NOTICE that the following propositions will be presented to the voters at the May 19, 2026, 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 2026-2027 in the amount of $180,001,342 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 20262027 be adopted, in the amount of $6,489,946 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 THE CAPITAL RESERVE FUND KNOWN AS CAPITAL 2023

SHALL the Board of Education of the Baldwin Union Free School District be authorized to expend an additional $8,000,000.00 from the Capital Reserve fund known as “Capital-2023”, established on May 16, 2023 for the purpose of performing the following projects:

(a) construction/ renovation of a kitchen at Brookside Elementary School; (b) construction/ renovation of a kitchen at Lenox Elementary School; (c) construction/ renovation of a kitchen at Meadow Elementary School; (d) construction/ renovation of a kitchen at Plaza Elementary School; (e) construction/ renovation of a kitchen at Steele Elementary School; (f) construction/ renovation of a cafeteria at Brookside Elementary School; and (g) construction/renovation of a cafeteria at Steele Elementary School, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.

PROPOSITION NO. 4: USAGE OF FUNDS FROM TECHNOLOGY RESERVE 2022

SHALL the Board of Education of the Baldwin Union Free School District be authorized to expend an amount not to exceed $475,000 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) new Chromebooks for 8th grade students; (c) Stylus/Meta pens; (d) cases/covers for Chromebooks, (e) battery bank charging cabinets; and (f) interactive boards, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the voting shall be on voting machines as provided by 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 2026-2027 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 19, 2026, 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 25 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 25 qualified voters of the District, filed in the office of the Clerk of the District between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:00PM not later than the 30th day, April 20, 2026, preceding the meeting or election at which the trustees shall be voted upon. 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 52 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, not later than the 30th day, April 20, 2026, preceding the meeting or election at which such question or proposition shall be voted upon, 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 (2022-2025) 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 19, 2026, for the purpose of preparing a register for District meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 19, 2026. 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 (2022-2025) 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 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 no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. 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

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that 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.

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: March 31, 2026

Baldwin, NY BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION BALDWIN UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK

Saide P. Vidal, District Clerk 159195

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE ELECCIÓN ANUAL DEL DISTRITO, AUDIENCIA PRESUPUESTARIA Y VOTACIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE UNIÓN DE BALDWIN CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU ESTADO DE NEW YORK, A CELEBRARSE EL 19 de mayo de 2026

POR EL PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que la audiencia presupuestaria de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Unión de Baldwin, ciudad de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, se llevará a cabo el miércoles 6 de mayo de 2026, en la cafetería A de Baldwin High School, Ethel T. Kloberg Drive, Baldwin, New York, en dicho Distrito Escolar, para la realización de los asuntos que estén autorizados por la ley, incluidos los siguientes fines:

1. Presentación y debate del presupuesto para el funcionamiento de las escuelas del distrito

para el año escolar que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026.

2. Presentación y debate del presupuesto para el funcionamiento de Baldwin Public Library para el año fiscal que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026. 3. Tratamiento de cualquier otro asunto autorizado por la ley.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la votación sobre la asignación de los fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos necesarios del año escolar 20262027, la asignación para la biblioteca, y todas las propuestas debidamente presentadas ante la Junta de Educación para cubrir vacantes de miembros de la junta en la Junta de Educación, se llevará a cabo en el gimnasio de Baldwin High School, Ethel T. Kloberg Drive, East of Grand Avenue, Baldwin, New York, en dicho Distrito Escolar, el martes 19 de mayo de 2026, entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 9:00 p. m. Hay dos cargos en la Junta de Educación que deberán cubrirse en la votación sobre el presupuesto anual y las elecciones del 19 de mayo de 2026. Un cargo es para un período completo de tres (3) años, desde el 1 de julio de 2026 hasta el 30 de junio de 2029. El otro cargo es por el resto de un período no vencido desde el 19 de mayo de 2026 hasta el 30 de junio de 2027. El candidato que reciba el mayor número de votos será elegido para el período más largo. El candidato que reciba el segundo mayor número de votos será elegido para el resto del período no vencido.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que se presentarán las siguientes propuestas a los votantes en la votación del 19 de mayo de 2026:

PROPUESTA N.º 1: PRESUPUESTO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR SE RESUELVE que se adopte el presupuesto propuesto del Distrito Escolar Libre de Unión de Baldwin de la ciudad de Hempstead, condado de Nassau, estado de New York, para el año fiscal 20262027 por un monto de $180,001,342, y que dicho monto se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del Distrito Escolar, después de deducir primero los fondos disponibles provenientes de la

Public Notices

ayuda estatal y otras fuentes.

PROPUESTA N.º 2: PRESUPUESTO DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA

SE RESUELVE que se adopte el presupuesto propuesto de Baldwin Public Library para el año fiscal 20262027, por un monto de $6,489,946, y que dicho monto se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del Distrito Escolar, después de deducir primero los fondos disponibles provenientes de la ayuda estatal y otras fuentes.

PROPUESTA N.º 3: USO DE LOS FONDOS PROVENIENTES DEL FONDO DE RESERVA DE CAPITAL

CONOCIDO COMO CAPITAL 2023

SE AUTORIZA a la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Unión de Baldwin a desembolsar un monto adicional de $8,000,000.00 del Fondo de Reserva de Capital conocido como “Capital-2023”, establecido el 16 de mayo de 2023, con el propósito de llevar a cabo los siguientes proyectos: (a) construcción/ renovación de una cocina en Brookside Elementary School; (b) construcción/renovación de una cocina en Lenox Elementary School; (c) construcción/ renovación de una cocina en Meadow Elementary School; (d) construcción/renovación de una cocina en Plaza Elementary School; (e) construcción/renovación de una cocina en Steele Elementary School; (f) construcción/ renovación de una cafetería en Brookside Elementary School; y (g) construcción/renovación de una cafetería en Steele Elementary School, lo cual incluye toda la mano de obra, los materiales, el equipo, los aparatos y los gastos incidentales relacionados con lo anterior.

PROPUESTA N.º 4: USO DE LOS FONDOS PROVENIENTES DE LA RESERVA TECNOLÓGICA DE 2022

SE AUTORIZA a la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Unión de Baldwin a desembolsar un monto que no exceda de $475,000 del Fondo de la Reserva Tecnológica establecido el 17 de

mayo de 2022, con el propósito de llevar a cabo los siguientes proyectos: (a) nuevas Chromebooks para estudiantes de 3.º grado; (b) nuevas Chromebooks para estudiantes de 8.º grado; (c) lápices Stylus/Meta; (d) fundas/carcasas para Chromebooks; (e) gabinetes de carga para bancos de baterías; y (f) pizarras interactivas, lo cual incluye toda la mano de obra, los materiales, el equipo, los aparatos y los gastos incidentales relacionados con lo anterior.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la votación se llevará a cabo mediante máquinas de votación, conforme a lo dispuesto por la Ley de Educación, y que los centros de votación permanecerán abiertos desde las 7:00 a. m. hasta las 9:00 p. m., y durante el tiempo adicional que sea necesario para permitir que los votantes presentes en ese momento emitan sus votos. Por el presente, se autoriza y se instruye a la secretaria del Distrito a que haga imprimir las etiquetas de las boletas necesarias para dichas máquinas de votación en una forma que se ajuste, en la mayor medida posible, a los requisitos de la Ley de Educación. Se preparará la forma resumida de la propuesta sobre el presupuesto y el texto de todas las demás propuestas que aparecerán en la máquina de votación, así como una declaración detallada por escrito del monto de dinero que se requerirá para el año escolar 2026-2027 para fines escolares, especificando los fines y el monto correspondiente a cada uno, y se pondrán copias a disposición, previa solicitud, de cualquier contribuyente del distrito en cada edificio escolar del distrito en el que funcione una escuela, entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., durante el período de catorce días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha elección del 19 de mayo de 2026, excepto los sábados, domingos y festivos, y en dicha elección anual.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la elección se celebrará de conformidad con el Reglamento para la celebración de reuniones y elecciones aprobado por la Junta de Educación.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las candidaturas para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación, salvo que la ley disponga lo contrario, se presentarán mediante una petición firmada por al menos 25 votantes calificados del Distrito, y que las candidaturas para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de la Biblioteca, salvo que la ley disponga lo contrario, se presentarán mediante una petición firmada por al menos 25 votantes calificados del Distrito, que deberá presentarse en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., a más tardar el día 30, el 20 de abril de 2026, anterior a la reunión o elección en la que se votará a los miembros de la junta. Dicha petición deberá indicar el nombre y la residencia de los candidatos. Los candidatos que reciban el mayor número de votos se considerarán electos para sus respectivos cargos. Cuando los períodos sean de distinta duración, el candidato que reciba el mayor número de votos será electo para el período más largo. La Junta de Educación podrá rechazar una nominación si el candidato no reúne los requisitos para el cargo o declara su falta de disposición para desempeñarlo.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que cualquier propuesta o cuestión que se deba incluir en las máquinas de votación se presentará por escrito mediante petición suscrita por al menos 52 votantes calificados del Distrito y se presentará en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito entre las 8:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., a más tardar el día 30, el 20 de abril de 2026, anterior a la reunión o elección en la que se votará dicha cuestión o propuesta, excepto que esta disposición no aplicará a aquellas cuestiones o propuestas que deban indicarse en el aviso publicado o fijado de la reunión ni a aquellas propuestas o cuestiones que la Junta de Educación tenga autoridad por ley para presentar en cualquier reunión anual o extraordinaria del Distrito.

También se permitirá el registro en la oficina

de la secretaria del Distrito en el edificio administrativo de Baldwin durante el horario de inscripción de 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 y elección escolar.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que el registro incluirá (1) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que se presenten personalmente para registrarse; y (2) a todos los votantes previamente calificados del Distrito que se hayan registrado previamente para cualquier reunión o elección anual o extraordinaria del Distrito celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro (4) años (20222025) anteriores a la preparación de dicho registro; y (3) a los votantes registrados de forma permanente ante la Junta Electoral del condado de Nassau.

SE NOTIFICA DEMÁS que la Junta de Registro se reunirá además durante el horario de votación en la Elección Anual del Distrito del 19 de mayo de 2026, con el propósito de preparar un registro para las reuniones o elecciones del Distrito que se celebren con posterioridad al 19 de mayo de 2026. Dicho registro incluirá (1) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que se presenten personalmente para registrarse, y (2) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que se hayan registrado previamente para cualquier reunión o elección anual o extraordinaria del Distrito celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro años calendario (2022-2025) anteriores a la preparación de dicho registro.

El registro se archivará en la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito del distrito escolar en el edificio administrativo, Hastings Street, Baldwin, New York, donde estará disponible para su inspección por cualquier votante calificado entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 2:00 p. m. durante cada uno de los cinco días previos a la fecha fijada para la elección, excepto el domingo, y el sábado únicamente con cita previa.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo para la elección del distrito escolar podrán presentarse en la oficina de la secretaria. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se hayan emitido boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo estará disponible en la oficina de la secretaria durante cada uno de los cinco días previos al día de la elección, excepto el domingo, y el sábado únicamente con cita previa. La secretaria del Distrito deberá recibir las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Asimismo, la secretaria del Distrito deberá recibir dicha solicitud al menos siete días antes de la elección si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día anterior a la elección si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una boleta de voto en ausencia o de voto anticipado por correo para envío postal, la secretaria del Distrito enviará la boleta a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que los votantes militares que no se encuentren actualmente registrados podrán solicitar su registro como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del distrito escolar podrán presentar una solicitud para obtener una boleta militar. Los votantes militares podrán indicar su preferencia de recibir el registro de votante militar, la solicitud de boleta militar o la boleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. La oficina de la secretaria del Distrito deberá recibir los formularios de registro de votante militar y los formularios de solicitud de boleta militar a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 23 de abril de 2026. No se contabilizará ninguna boleta militar a menos que (1) la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito la

reciba antes del cierre de las urnas el día de la elección y muestre un matasellos del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o muestre una constancia fechada de recepción por otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) la oficina de la secretaria del Distrito la reciba a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del día de la elección y esté firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que no sea posterior al día anterior a la elección.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que esta Junta convocará a una reunión extraordinaria dentro de las veinticuatro horas posteriores a la presentación ante la secretaria del Distrito de un informe escrito de los resultados de la votación, para reunirse en Baldwin Senior High School con el propósito de examinar y tabular dichos informes de los resultados de la votación y declarar el resultado de la votación; asimismo, la Junta por la presente se designa a sí misma como funcionarios electorales para emitir y escrutar los votos de conformidad con la Ley de Educación 2019-a, subdivisión 2b, en dicha reunión extraordinaria de la Junta.

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que el Informe sobre exenciones del impuesto sobre bienes inmuebles, elaborado de conformidad con la sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, se adjuntará a cualquier presupuesto provisional o preliminar, así como al presupuesto definitivo aprobado, del que formará parte; y se publicará en los tablones de anuncios del Distrito destinados a los avisos públicos, así como en el sitio web del Distrito.

Fecha: 31 de marzo de 2026 Baldwin, NY POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE UNIÓN DE BALDWIN CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD, CONDADO DE NASSAU NEW YORK

Saide P. Vidal, secretaria del distrito 159197

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-ININTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE CIM TRUST 2019R2, MORTGAGEBACKED NOTES, SERIES 2019-R2, Plaintiff, vs. JUAN TAVERAS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 5, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on May 20, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 155 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 Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 131 and Lot 9. Approximate amount of judgment is $537,351.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 600963/2023.

Christine M. Grillo, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.:222779-1 159670

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. CHRISTINE ARIS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Counter Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 12, 2022, 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 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known

as 66 Martha 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, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 95 and Lot 132-134. Approximate amount of judgment is $303,577.10 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612262/2019.

John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 159672

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 REO TRUST 2017RPL1, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS-ATLAW, NEXT-OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENTS VIOLA WHALEY AND WALTER GRABOWSKI BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Discharging the Guardian Ad Litem, Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Fore Nunc Pro Tunc Relief duly entered on August 4, 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 19, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 62 East First Street, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon

May 7, 2026 —

Public Notices

erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 69 and Lot 189. Approximate amount of judgment is $390,426.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 616841/2022. Cash will not be accepted. Michelle Aulivola, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 159668

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST SUSAN SINCLAIR AKA SUSAN VAUGHN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF VERA MAE VAUGHN, BILLY VAUGHN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF VERA MAE VAUGHN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 19, 2026, 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 18, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 39 Pleasant Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Roosevelt, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55 Block 335 Lot 24. Approximate amount of judgment $412,136.38 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616567/2022. Lori B. DeCapua, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 We hrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003352 89506 159599

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST INC., ASSETBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AMC1, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, -againstFRANKI JOSEPH, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 2, 2024, wherein CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN

TRUST INC., ASSETBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AMC1, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and FRANKI JOSEPH, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 20, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 100 WILSON PLACE, VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 54-59-1. ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611202/2019. Brian J. Davis, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159620

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF NASSAU

JR LARES GROUP INC., Plaintiff, V.

LORNA G. PROPERTIES, INC., LORNA GRAY, ET. AL.

Defendant(s) Index No. 610061/2022

NOTIGE IS HEREBY

GIVEN pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure ?nd Sale duly enterecj July 8, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York 11501, ‘Rain or Shine’ on May 27, 2026 at 2:30 P.M., (1) premises known as 80 Connecticut Avenue, Freeport, New York 11520, All those certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, Section 54, Block 55, Lots 177 and 187 and (2) premises known as 231 Beechwood Avenue, Roosevelt, New York 11575, All those certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in Roosevelt, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, Section 55, Block 551, Lot 7. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,010,166.33 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to the terms and conditions and provisions of filed Judgment under Index No. 610061/2022 and terms of sale. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF AUCTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES

DARICE GUZMAN

PIOTROWSKI, ESQ.REFEREE. THOMPSON LAW GROUP, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff 190 Jericho Turnpike Mineola, New York 11501. 159815

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email:

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 #: 608574/2025

MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC Plaintiff, vs MARVIN SIMMONS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, TROY SIMMONS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, JACQUETTA WASHINGTON, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, EUGENIA HAYES AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS 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, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS,

DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, CLIFTON SYLVESTER SIMMONS AKA TONY SIMMONS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, AMELIA C. SIMMONS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, CHRISTOPHER A. SIMMONS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, FELICIA A. SIMMONS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, JEMELL S. WALKER AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, KEITH O. MURRAY, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, DEMETRIA C. MURRAY AKA CLARA DEMETRIA SEWARD AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, RENEE SIMMONS 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, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS,

The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Dollie Simmons AKA Dollie M. Simmons (who died on October 23, 2024, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) dated the December 20, 2007, to secure the sum of $544,185.00 and recorded at Instrument No. 058973 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on January 23, 2008. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 26, 2010 and recorded on March 9, 2010, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Book M 34657, Page 237. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 7, 2025 and recorded on April 17, 2025, in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk at Instrument Number 2025-24209 Book M47936, Page 1. The property in question is described as follows: 54 Pleasant Avenue, Roosevelt, NY 11575 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: April 15, 2026 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

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 AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DOLLIE SIMMONS AKA DOLLIE M. SIMMONS, “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendants. MORTGAGED PREMISES: 54 Pleasant Avenue Roosevelt, NY 11575 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) within 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 Renee Simmons In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Thirteenth day of April, 2026 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola.

obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 89892 159754

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2005-7CB, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-7CB, Plaintiff AGAINST ALAN RICHARTZ, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 4, 2026, 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 26, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 111 East Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and state of New York, Section: 62 Block: 57 Lot: 180. Approximate amount of judgment $169,507.68 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Ind ex #605706/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Kenneth J. Weinstein, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Miller, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1840 New York, NY 10006 25-001039 89351 159709

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, -againstMICHAEL L. WILLIAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIE WILLIAMS, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in

Public Notices

the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 13, 2026, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL L. WILLIAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIE WILLIAMS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 1, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 16 SCHERER PLACE, ROOSEVELT, NY 11575; and the following tax map identification: 55-315-137, 138, 139 & 140.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT ROOSEVELT, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 613456/2021. Fabiana Talarico, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 159949

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 2, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 3, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 285 South Bayview Avenue a/k/a 285 Bayview 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 Town of Hempstead, Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of York, Section 62, Block 135 and Lot 109. Approximate amount of judgment is $916,271.53 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #602760/2023. Keith Lavallee, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.:190407-3 159953

York, Section 54 Block 87 Lot 111. Approximate amount of judgment $615,396.10 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 619828/2023. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: April 14, 2026 89800 159855

PLUMBING CONSTRUCTION “ until 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in the Main Conference Room of the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, at which time and place they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

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, vs. NORVELLA NEWMAN A/K/A NORVELLA L. NEWMAN, ET AL., Defendant(s).

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Deutsche Bank National Trust, Company, as Trustee for the holders of HSI Asset Securitization Corporation Trust 2007-HE1, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-HE1, Plaintiff AGAINST Burton Arthur a/k/a Burton S. Arthur; Suzette A. Arthur; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 24, 2026 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 3, 2026 at 2:30PM, premises known as 80 Park 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, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. FIRST START, LLC, Pltf. vs. TRIDENT EQUITIES LLC, et al, Defts. Index #600121/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Oct. 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 June 4, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. premises k/a 325 South Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520 a/k/a Section 62, Block 44, Lot 430. Approximate amount of judgment is $370,585.75 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health of safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Sale will be held, “rain or shine.” MERIK

AARON, Referee.

MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., Ste. 224, Syosset, NY 11791. #102921 159947

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

FREEPORT POLICE

DEPARTMENT

EXTENSION

PLUMBING

CONSTRUCTION FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT

NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Agent of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “FREEPORT POLICE

DEPARTMENT

EXTENSION -

The project calls for plumbing construction for a second floor addition to the Village of Freeport Police Department as well as modifications to the existing building. Each bid must be accompanied by a bidder’s bond in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid insuring to the benefit of the Village of Freeport, or a certified check of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid, made payable to the Village of Freeport, to assure the entering of the successful bidder into a acceptable contract.

The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bid proposals received and subject to these reservations, shall award the contract to the lowest qualified and responsible bidder. Bids which, in the opinion of the Board, are unbalanced shall be rejected.

In submitting a bid, bidders agree not to withdraw their bid within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof.

Purchasing Agent Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date - May 7, 2026 160088

LEGAL NOTICE

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC

HEARING – May 21, 2026

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing with the Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 6:30 P.M. in the

Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York on the appeals and applications of cases as they appear on the calendar; residential applications that do not extend their prior nonconforming status may be called first; public comment invited.

INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions.

All applications are non-conforming with zoning regulations herein specified for the districts in which they are located.

Application #2026-5 –88 N. Columbus Ave. Residence Apartment Section 55/Block 226/Lot 392 – Ultra Palace LLC Proposed 34,766 SF 5 story apartment building Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6A Conformity Required §210-47 Building Height §210-48 Lot area; apartments §210-49BCD Lot coverage §210-51A Required yards §210-172A(2)(a) Required parking spaces BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 160089

LEGAL NOTICE

Public & Legal Notices

Legal Notice Notice is hereby given that SEALED PROPOSALS for: FREEPORT MEMORIAL LIBRARY - RESTROOMS AND ROOM 4 AND 5 UPGRADES, FREEPORT, NEW YORK 11520

Contract G General construction

Proposals will be received until 11 a.m. prevailing time on Thursday June 18, 2026 at the library directors’ office of the Freeport Memorial Library, located at 144 West Merrick Road, Freeport, New York 11520. A link to electronically download the files including the contract documents [Construction Drawings, project manual with specifications, agreement between owner and contractor, and the conditions of the contract (general supplementary and other conditions)] may

be obtained by contacting Samantha Swedish at WFC Architects via email at Samantha.Swedish@W FCArchitects.com. The link to downloading the bid documents may be obtained beginning 12 p.m., Friday May 15, 2026. Bids must be made in the standard proposal form in the manner designated therein and as required by the specifications that must be enclosed in sealed envelopes bearing the names and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to: FREEPORT MEMORIAL LIBRARY, clearly marked on the outside: BID FOR RESTROOMS AND ROOM 4 AND 5 UPGRADES. Each proposal shall be submitted with a certified check or bid bond, made payable to the Freeport Memorial Library, in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid, as a commitment by the bidder that, if its bid is accepted, it will enter into a contract to perform the work and will execute such further security as may be required for the faithful performance of the contract. Certification of bonding company is required for this bid, and the performance bond and labor and materials payment bonds prior to execution of the contract to the awarded bidder shall also be required - see instructions for bidders section. Each bidder shall agree to hold his/her bid price for forty five (45) days after the formal bid opening scheduled for Monday June 22, 2026 at 11:00AM at the Library. A pre-bid meeting and walk thru is scheduled for 10 a.m., Monday June 1, 2026. Potential bidders are asked to gather at the library lobby at 144 West Merrick Road, Freeport, NY, at which time they will be escorted to the areas of work following all necessary Covid-19 regulations and guidelines IF ANY ARE IN PLACE. This meeting is not mandatory; however it is highly recommended that all the potential bidders attend. It is the board of trustees intention to award the contracts to the lowest qualified bidder who can meet the experience, technical and budget requirements. The

board of trustees reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive any informality and to accept such bid which, in the opinion of the board of trustees, is in the best interests of the Freeport Memorial Library. Bids include all costs associated with the project. By submitting a bid, the bidder represents that they are familiar with the site and project conditions. Additionally, prior to submitting its bid, contractor shall make architect and owner aware of any problems and/or inconsistencies in the bid documents.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Freeport Memorial Library Freeport, New York 160090

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTENSION HVAC CONSTRUCTION FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Agent of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “FREEPORT POLICE

DEPARTMENT

EXTENSION - HVAC CONSTRUCTION “ until 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in the Main Conference Room of the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, at which time and place they will be opened publicly and read aloud. Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be obtained by visiting the Village website at www.freeportny.gov or obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, from 9:00 A.M. on Monday, May 11, 2026 until 4:00 P.M. Friday, June 5, 2026. There is no fee for a set of bid documents.

The project calls for HVAC construction for the second floor addition to the Village of Freeport Police Department as well as modifications to the existing building. Each bid must be accompanied by a bidder’s bond in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent

of the bid insuring to the benefit of the Village of Freeport, or a certified check of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid, made payable to the Village of Freeport, to assure the entering of the successful bidder into a acceptable contract.

In submitting a bid, bidders agree not to withdraw their bid within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof.

Purchasing Agent Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date - May 7, 2026 160087

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTENSION ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Agent of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTENSIONELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION “ until 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in the Main Conference Room of the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, at which time and place they will be opened publicly and read aloud. Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be obtained by visiting the Village website at www.freeportny.gov or obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, from 9:00 A.M. on Monday, May 11, 2026 until 4:00 P.M. Friday, June 5, 2026. There is no fee for a set of bid documents. The project calls for electrical construction for the second floor addition to the Village

Public Notices

of Freeport Police Department as well as modifications to the existing building. Each bid must be accompanied by a bidder’s bond in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid insuring to the benefit of the Village of Freeport, or a certified check of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid, made payable to the Village of Freeport, to assure the entering of the successful bidder into a acceptable contract.

In submitting a bid, bidders agree not to withdraw their bid within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof.

Purchasing Agent Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT

Issue Date - May 7, 2026 160085

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT

EXTENSION

GENERAL CONSTRUCTION

Lori Shorin’s sculpted works go to Art Alcove

Sculptor and artist Lori Shorin will have some her select pieces on display at the Long Island Arts Council’s Art Alcove in the Freeport Recreation Center for the entirety of the month of May.

Shorin is a figurative sculptor whose work explores the quiet, intimate moments of connection between individuals. Capturing those subtle moments in her art work helps make much of her pieces as captivating as they are.

Over the past six years, Shorin has created compositions that bring together figures from different faith traditions, imagining encounters rooted in empathy and common humanity.

One of Shorin’s most notable pieces that is an example of her interactions with religion is her “Manna from Heaven,” where she blends Buddhism and Christianity by depicting the mother of Buddha nursing the infant Moses. Shorin says this artwork offers “a powerful vision of spiritual interconnectedness.”

Shorin began her career in realistic figurative sculpture in 2005 by selling her belongings and moving to Italy where she spent four years studying the human form at the Florence Academy of Art.

FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Agent of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTENSION - GENERAL CONSTRUCTION “ until 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in the Main Conference Room of the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, at which time and place they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be obtained by visiting the Village website at www.freeportny.gov or obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, from 9:00 A.M. on Monday, May 11, 2026 until 4:00 P.M. Friday, June 5, 2026. There is no fee for a set of bid documents. The project calls for general construction of a second floor addition to the Village of Freeport Police Department as well as modifications to the existing building.

Each bid must be accompanied by a bidder’s bond in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid insuring to the benefit of the Village of Freeport, or a certified check of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid, made payable to the Village of Freeport, to assure the entering of the successful bidder into a acceptable contract.

In submitting a bid, bidders agree not to withdraw their bid within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof.

Purchasing Agent Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date - May 7, 2026 160086

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST JEAN P. JOHNSON A/K/A JEAN P. FERGUSON

A/K/A JEAN

FERGUSON-JOHNSON; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 30, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 4, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 68 Washburn 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: 251 Lot: 282. Approximate amount of judgment $854,470.08 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #000304/2014. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

Janine Lynam, Esq., Referee FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, NY 14614 AYSJN078 89733 160001

Shorin’s artistic practice has long been driven by a commitment to social change and community development through a variety of artworks and through her founding of the New York Figurative Art Atelier. Through this organization, she teaches figurative sculpture, sharing the knowledge and

discipline she developed during her studies at Florence Art Academy. The reception for Shorin’s Art Alcove exhibit will be on May 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with all invited to attend.

–Andrew Francis

Prior to the Recreation Center’s Art Alcove, Lori Shorin’s pieces have been in many exhibits like the Brookgreen Gardens and Islip Art Museum.

will be on display in the Art Alcove for the entirety of May.

Lori Shorin captures a variety of feminine features and cultures through her sculpted work.

Photos courtesy Long Island Arts Council

Shorin has been crafting sculpted pieces for decades.

Shorin’s sculptures

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CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

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

MEDIA

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

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Stunning to Behold

This breathtaking property is a masterfully crafted home set on a sprawling threequarter acre corner lot, where elegance, space, and thoughtful design come together. From the moment you step inside, the superior craftsmanship

How early do I get the

interior designer involved?

Q. I’ve been interviewing architects and want your opinion on the issue of interior design. I have no sense of space, color or furniture. I’m getting mixed ideas from the architects about having an interior designer involved at the beginning, and I’m wondering what to do. Should I have the interior designer do the space plan first, and then hire the architect, or should I get the interior designer involved more toward the middle, before plans are done?

A. This is a touchy subject that often leads to frustration, mostly because the tasks of each are not always understood. There’s an old saying, “Too many cooks spoil the broth.” An interior designer on my projects has always been requested to work after the building is designed, from the beginning to the end. The reasons for this are the differences in our knowledge of laws, engineering qualifications and responsibilities.

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An interior designer doesn’t have a license, qualification or, generally, the education to perform the integrated services of an architect or an engineer. The reason that’s a frustrating answer is that I like working with interior designers personally, when the enhancement of the building’s finishes come into play, after the building has met the requirements of being able to stand, shed light to spaces, allow for all the safety requirements and myriad codes that must be followed. Unfortunately, clients often see that as being egotistical, overly sensitive or domineering, and that’s due to the lack of education as to what each person’s role is in construction. It’s no different than when a carpenter tells a homeowner that the structure could have been thinner and would have saved the owner money. The carpenter may not understand that the structure has to be sized for insulation thickness to meet energy codes before voicing their perspective. I’ve had multiple experiences that turned out very well because it was understood, from the project beginning, that the architect wasn’t there just to draw what they were told to draw. At times, issues needed to be discussed, and changes were necessary to accommodate the material thickness.

For example, stairways have a minimum width, and you can’t arbitrarily add a thick stone surface to the side walls that would reduce the clear width. It might be beautiful, but imagine having the inspection fail for safety reasons. In that instance, the plans could have been discussed or the material selection could have been revised.

I once had an interior designer repeatedly changing the shape of spaces, requiring the arbitrary removal of columns. A building won’t stand without columns, and moving them is like pulling one card out of a house of cards, literally and figuratively. A great design starts with great communication and a clear understanding of each person’s responsibilities and boundaries, both legal and by the project team as a whole. As a team, you will be successful if you and every team member understand this. Good luck!

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

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

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I have more than enough words for a memoir

Recently I entered into an agreement with noted editor Peter Ginna to put my 140,000-word memoir manuscript into final form to be presented to publishers. That will probably result in the reduction of at least 30,000 words and some reformatting. The final product, though, will be mine.

This project began five years ago. After I retired from Congress in January 2021, I started to assemble my thoughts, news stories, photos and memorabilia from 28 years in office in an attempt to make some sense of, and put in some perspective, my experiences. The more I assembled, the more I realized how long and unlikely the journey had been — and how fortunate I had been.

Particularly helpful to me in collating so much of the memories and information was Anne Rosenfeld, who worked in my district office, in Massapequa Park, for all of those years, including the last 20 as district director. Melissa Zimmerman was one of the Nassau County Police Department

detectives on my congressional security detail. Having retired shortly before I did, she agreed to be my post-congressional security director. As she learned what I was doing and heard my discussions about my experiences, she urged me to put it all into a memoir. And she didn’t let up until I started the process.

As I began to write, I realized that the story would have to begin where it all began, on the bluecollar sidewalks of Sunnyside, Queens, and then St. Albans.

if not a ragsto-riches tale, my life has certainly been an improbable journey.

My grandparents were Irish immigrants. My father was a World War II veteran and an Army Reserve major who served for three decades in the New York City Police Department, rising to the rank of lieutenant as commanding officer for physical training and head of the department’s first Ceremonial Unit, which he formed. My mother, a product of the Depression, had to turn down a college scholarship and take a job instead.

My younger brother, Kevin, and I attended St. Teresa’s grammar school, in Woodside, where there were 70-plus kids in a classroom, with no concern for feelings or sensitivity. Tuition was 25 cents a week. After that it was Brooklyn Prep and then St. Francis College, while

TI worked full-time at the Railway Express freight yards on Manhattan’s West Side as a junior and senior. After that I was unexpectedly accepted by Notre Dame Law School, where I made friendships that would last a lifetime. At neighboring St. Mary’s College I met Rosemary, who has been putting up with me for a lifetime.

All of this somehow led to experiences with an eclectic mix of people and events that made for an interesting, never boring, life, as I navigated the minefields of New York and Washington politics and government. I dealt with tragedies such as Sept. 11 and its lasting aftermath, which included fighting for health care benefits for its survivors and first responders. I was one of only two members of Congress in history to vote against the impeachment of two presidents. I faced challenges as chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, holding controversial hearings into Islamic radicalization and ensuring that New York and Long Island received the funding necessary to defend against future terrorist attacks.

Over the years in New York, Washington and overseas, there were dealings with Presidents Clinton, Bush,

Obama, Trump and Biden; British Prime Minister Blair and Irish P.M. Ahern; Israeli leaders Rabin, Peres and Netanyahu; and meeting foreign leaders and dignitaries such as Russia’s Yeltsin, Poland’s Walesa and Britain’s Queen Elizabeth. There were New York leaders, characters and personalities including Cardinal John O’Connor, Al D’Amato, Ed Koch, Rudy Giuliani and Roy Cohn. There was also the almost surreal experience of being the grandson of Irish immigrants and having a great uncle who was in the IRA and imprisoned during the Irish War of Independence in the 1920s — and working with Clinton, Blair, Ahern and Irish Republican leader Gerry Adams to bring about the historic 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended the centuries-old, bloody struggle between the British government and the people of Ireland.

My life has not been a rags-to-riches tale, but it has certainly been an improbable journey, beyond what I ever could have dreamed of or imagined. It has indeed been what my book title describes, “The Road to God Knows Where — From the Blue Collar Sidewalks of Queens to the Halls of Congress.”

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

We all need friends, and NATO is our best one

he older you get, the more you need to have some friends. While we should always be lucky to have a family that cares for us in good times and bad, we still have to have friends. A little research showed me that there are more songs about the value of friends, and the need for them, than about independence or going it alone. I’m sure many readers are familiar with the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends.” Or Dionne Warwick’s “That’s What Friends Are For,” or Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend,” Or Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me.” I could list another dozen songs that capture the importance of having a friend. Which brings us to the subject of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Somehow, President Trump has advanced the distorted idea that America can go it alone in the world without the help of our overseas allies. Long before NATO came into existence in 1949, our European friends were fighting with us in World War II, losing thou-

sands of young men to keep democracy alive.

When NATO was founded, its membership comprised Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States. It now includes Albania, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Turkey. It is a powerful union of allies who all have economic and strategic relationships with the United States.

T here is no way the United States could go it alone without these allies.

has always stood by us since then. Trump alleges that Iran was almost ready to attack the United States and Israel, but it did not launch an attack on our country. Being a “threat” to a NATO ally isn’t the same as attacking it. On 9/11, the NATO countries immediately declared their support for the United States and provided numerous forms of assistance, both technical and economic.

territory.) Russia could mount an attack on our country in minutes if it ever served their purposes.

What gets lost in the debate about NATO’s obligations to intervene in the war with Iran is that NATO was never consulted before the war began, and no member country was attacked by Iran. Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty says that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all members, which is not what happened in the war with Iran.

The first time the NATO charter was invoked was when America was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001. The alliance

To this day, NATO members continue to offer us strategic advice about actions around the world that may be a threat to America. They provide us with warnings about weather patterns and environmental events that are a threat to our region of the planet. And most of all, they buy billions of dollars’ worth of military equipment and other products that make our manufacturers healthy and wealthy.

Whether the president admits it or not, our two biggest enemies are China and Russia. In the case of Russia, it is worth noting that it is less than 60 miles from Alaska. (And actually, Big Diomede Island, in Russian territory, is just 2½ miles from Little Diomede Island, in U.S.

As for China, even with some severe economic problems, it is capable of causing major upheaval for the U.S. if it chooses. Should it invade Taiwan, America would lose its major supplier of the semiconductor chips that companies like Nvidia and Apple use for advanced computing. Other chips are used in automobiles and a wide variety of products, and we can’t afford to lose that supply.

There is no way that the United States could go it alone without its NATO allies. We can’t protect our country from the world’s two worst predators without those allies on our side. Breaking up that alliance would be strategic and economic suicide. Talk is cheap, so the president has every right to pick occasional spats with NATO, but he can’t afford to abandon it. To do so would create chaos for generations to come.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.

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Small Business Week, with eyes wide open

Small Business Week, which runs from May 3 to 9, will bring the usual round of proclamations, ribbon-cuttings and feel-good photo ops. Local entrepreneurs deserve every one of them. They also deserve the truth: The Main Streets of Long Island are under siege, and a week of celebration cannot paper over what the rest of the year has made painfully clear.

Walk down Park Avenue, in Long Beach, or Merrick Avenue, or any commercial corridor from Lynbrook to Glen Cove, and the strain is visible. For Lease signs have not come down in months. Restaurants have cut hours because they can’t find or afford the staff to stay open. Family-owned shops that survived the pandemic now wonder whether they will survive the aftermath. The business owners who anchor our downtowns aren’t asking for sympathy. They are asking, quietly and increasingly, whether the math still works.

The pressures are no secret. Rents for Long Island commercial space have climbed steadily. Costs have skyrocketed, outpacing what owners can charge without losing customers. Wages have risen, as they should, but for thin-margin businesses, every raise is a calculation about how many shifts can be staffed next month.

Energy bills and insurance premiums keep grinding higher. And looming over all of it is the e-commerce machine — Amazon, Temu, Shein and a growing list of online giants whose business model depends on undercutting the shop down the block, capturing the sale, and sending the profit somewhere far from Long Island.

The numbers tell a more complicated story than the celebratory ones we usually hear. In Nassau County, the U.S. Small Business Administration backed more than $207 million in loans last year, supporting roughly 500 businesses and helping create or sustain 2,850 jobs. That is real and meaningful. But SBA lending is also a barometer of need. A community in which hundreds of businesses require government-backed credit just to keep their doors open is not a community where small business is thriving on its own. It is a community where small business is fighting to hold ground.

Matt Coleman, the SBA’s regional administrator, has said that anyone who wants to understand the local economy needs to look past the financial markets and pay attention to those small businesses, embedded in our communities. He’s right. And what those businesses are telling us, if we listen honestly, is that the ground beneath them is shifting faster than they can adapt.

Federal tax relief on tips and overtime will help some workers. Modest tax reductions for small-business owners will help some operators. Neither will reverse the structural forces reshaping retail, hospitality and local service. The playing field is not level, and pretending otherwise does our merchants no favors.

What small businesses can offer is what e-commerce cannot: presence, accountability and a stake in the community. The pizzeria in East Rockaway that sponsors the Little League team.

The diner in Seaford that hosts the volunteer fire department’s monthly breakfast. The florist in Oyster Bay that decorates the village gazebo for the holidays.

None of those things show up on a balance sheet. All of them disappear when the storefront goes dark.

The Herald takes pride in standing alongside local businesses every day of the year. Our reporters tell their stories — the grand openings, the second-generation handoffs, the milestone anniversaries, the moments when local owners step up to feed first responders during a storm. Our advertising and marketing teams work shoulder to shoulder with owners to help them reach customers and grow their brand across print, digital and social channels. We do this because we believe local journalism and local commerce rise and fall together.

Honesty about the challenges is not pessimism. It is the precondition for a serious response. Policymakers should be looking hard at commercial rent pressures, at the unequal tax treatment that favors online sellers, at workforce housing that should allow people to actually live near where they work. Residents have a role, too — a more direct one. Every dollar spent locally is a dollar that stays here, resulting in sponsors for Little League teams, donors for nonprofit events, tenants for local storefronts, and more.

So this week, before clicking “buy now” online, walk into the shop down the block. Order takeout from the family-run restaurant in Island Park. Book the local landscaper from Malverne. Tip generously. The Main Streets of Long Island are not guaranteed. They are chosen, one transaction at a time, by the people who live here — and that choice has never mattered more.

Influencers, from Joe Schmoe to the influencer in chief

where are all the government’s best and brightest?

In the current administration, there are fewer models for academic achievement, moral rectitude and ethical behavior. The swamp is real, and it’s drowning the smart and dedicated people who go to Washington to serve the country.

Many of our best federal officials have been muted or sidelined by the Elon MuskDonald Trump one-two punch. The president has appointed a succession of officials who are unprepared for their demanding jobs. He has trolled the bottom for people whose only standard is loyalty to the regime. As they sink and flunk out, as scandal after scandal unfolds, as their inexperience and absurd behavior come to light, they leave and are replaced by other sycophants.

As education standards sink, we witness the rise of “influencers,” selfappointed experts who have co-opted the attention and expendable income of millions of people old enough to use a phone. We are ceding critical questions about our health and well-being to self-

promoters who may have no real expertise and even less education. What many of them do have is a social media presence and the marketing know-how to garner thousands — even millions — of followers.

This isn’t a new problem, but it’s getting worse.

One example: In February, The New York Times published a story titled, “Do Energy Drinks Offer Benefits Beyond Caffeine?”

sThe takeaway was that most of the boost in these drinks comes from oldfashioned caffeine, not the add-on vitamins or extracts or purified water. Even though many drinks are marketed by health influencers as enhancing focus or endurance, the evidence, the article said, is inconsistent. In addition, the high caffeine levels in these jazzed-up drinks are concerning for those with a variety of health issues.

and because they hold sway with millions of followers whose only source of scientific information and medical advice is social media.

ocial media offer an uninformed public a circular firing squad of ignorance.

They are influencers, too, because their audience often doesn’t read or listen critically to what they are peddling. The social media audience isn’t researching the claims made on Instagram, for example, because many don’t know how to do research. And it’s so easy to just click and buy and think your pimples will disappear with a new product. We need a savvier buying public, and that comes with old-fashioned, top-tier education backed by quality teachers who are paid generously for the immense responsibility they carry — to educate our young.

pelted with stones by members of the Red Guards. Allegiance to Mao was all.

I think of this as our best-trained military leaders are fired by Trump, as longtime officials in the FBI and CIA are replaced by flunkies, as people like Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi spin through the revolving door of our dysfunctional government.

A true leader seeks to elevate the best and brightest, without a loyalty test as the filter.

The concept of influencers has roots dating back to the early 1900s. It began with celebrities endorsing products. Remember the Marlboro Man who smoked his way to fame? And all the dead lung cancer victims who followed his lead?

What you get from some of these aggressively marketed drinks is an expensive thirst-quencher with a ton of caffeine.

This is just one example of how we have surrendered our power to people who may have no scientific background at all when it comes to herbs or lotions or foods or exercise regimens. They are “influencers” because they say they are,

Framework by Tim Baker

The problem starts at the top, with an elected influencer in chief and his unqualified appointees, and it continues with an increasingly uninformed public whose only information comes from social media, a circular firing squad of ignorance.

In China, during the Cultural Revolution, from 1966 to 1976, intellectuals in every discipline were banished to the countryside. Illustrious scientists and writers were made to sit in public squares wearing dunce caps while being

I don’t understand the influence of influencers, the promotion of knownothings whom we empower to tell us how to live. I do know that to survive as a viable society, we must educate a new generation of critical thinkers.

It starts with our kids and grandkids, who must learn the difference between scientific-based information and random opinion offered up by charismatic but ignorant actors, even when they are handsome and riding a black stallion. Even when they live in the White House.

And the Experts Agree

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

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

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

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

Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau